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 SECOND VOLVME OF THE GENERALL HISTO∣RY OF VENICE. (Book 2)

The Contents of the seuenth Booke of the fourth Decade.

THe Emperor entreateth the Venetians to deliuer the Cities of Faenza and Riminy to the Pope. Lewis the French King maketh the same request to them. The Emperor craues leaue of the Venetians to passe in armes thorow their state to Rome to his Cornonation, which they deny. Iohn Paul Baillon restoreth Perugia with her territory to the Pope. Bolognia is yeelded in the same manner to the Pope by the Bentiuolies. The King comes into Italy, by reason of the reuolt of Genoa. The Pope doth greatly suspect and distrust the French King. Enteruiew of the Kings of France and Arragon at Sauona. The Emperour performeth bad offices in Germany toward the French King. How the report of the Emperours comming downe into Italy did trouble the Venetians. The Emperour commeth into Italy, and returneth sodainely into Germany. The Almains are defeated in the vale of Cadora. The Venetians take the town of Goritia. The conclusion of the truce betwixt the Emperor and the Venetians did breed some discontent betwixt the King and them. Confederacy sworne at Cambray against the Venetians, by the Pope, the Emperor Maximil∣lian, and the Kings of France and Arragon. The Venetians make great war∣like preparations against this confederacy. The Pope casteth aterrible excom∣munication on the Venetians. The Kings army and that of the Venetians very neere together. The Venetians are defeated by the French in the Countrey of Giradade. The great progression of the French army ouer Italy after the Battaile. All Romagnia in a manner is yeelded to the Pope. Lastly the Veneti∣ans resoluing to quit the firme land, doe leaue Padua, Verona, and all the other, Cities appointed to the Emperor.

The seuenth Booke of the fourth Decad of [ 10] the History of Uenice.

MAXIMILLIAN, forgetting the promise which he first made* 1.1 to the Venetians to debate their cause before the Pope, sent two Ambassadors to Venice to entreate them to yeeld Faenza & Ry∣miny to him. That it belonged to him to make that request, as Protector of Holy Church and of whatsoeuer apperteined therevnto. If they thought it an vnreasonable matter, they should referre it to arbitrement: That he would labour to cause the Pope to con∣descend [ 20] therevnto; and that if they would choose him for their vmpier, he would willingly accept thereof, and would giue sentence according to equity. The* 1.2 Senats answer with that of the Great Coūcel to these Ambassadors was, (hauing reiterated all that which their Ambassadors had first of all declared to the Empe∣ror from the Senate) that their right to those lands being so plaine and euident, they would not put it to compromise. Vpon this answere one of the Ambassa∣dors departed from Venice to Rome, the other stayed there, whose expences were defraied by the State.* 1.3

In the meane time a league and confederacy was made betweene the Emperor Maximillian and the French King, after long strife and disputation of their Am∣bassadors. [ 30] This league being concluded, King Lewis sent againe Iohn Lascaris of Constantinople his Ambassador to Venice, to entreate them to seeke all pos∣sible meanes of agreement with the Pope: for that being done, they were deter∣mined to ioyne altogether against the Turke. He added that his King had sworn* 1.4 league and friendship with Maximillian, not to hurt any man, but only for the safety and preseruation of each others State.

The Senate, who had already decreed that the Ambassadour should haue a* 1.5 pound weight of gold giuen him euery month towards his expences, made an∣swere, that they had omitted nothing, either by entreaty or promises to giue the Pope satisfaction, hauing not long before made him this offer, that al-be-it Pope [ 40] Alexander had giuen Faenza and the other lands to the Valentinois free from all conditions, they were content neuerthelesse to hold Faenza and Riminy of the Church, on what conditions and rent it pleased, promising to make true payment euery yeere, but this would not be accepted of: That they were exceeding glad that two such great Princes, had conuerted their hatred and contention into a sound and firme league & friendship. But because it was specified in the contract betwixt King Lewis and them, that neither of them two might make alliance with any other Prince whatsoeuer, without the consent of his fellow, they did willingly desire to know, why his King had not first aduertized them thereof.

At this demand the Ambassador made some little pawse, then he answered that [ 50] he knew nothing of it: yet neuerthelesse it was mentioned in the treaty, that each of them might within foure months space name a fellow whom he would, where∣vpon it was lawfull for his King to name the Signory of Venice.

The Ambassadors answere did not greatly content the Senate, and could not

hinder them from suspecting this league contracted without their knowledge.* 1.6 Wherevpon they thought it most expedient to trie if they could appease the Pope, vnto whom, certaine months before, they had offered to deliuer vnto him Riminy, and withall that which they had possessed in Romagnia since Pope Alex∣ander his death, prouided that he would be content, that they might still retaine Faenza with her Territory. This was for feare of the French King, and like∣wise because the Emperour, at the Popes request, had sent an Ambassadour vn∣to them, to will them to make restitution of the lands belonging to the Church, as hath beene said.

But the Pope hauing giuen them this resolute answere, that he would not in [ 10] * 1.7 any sort consent to the with-holding of one onely towre: and threatning them to recouer yet before he died Rauenna, and Ceruia, which they possessed as wrongfully as they did Faenza, they passed on no farther at that time. But their feare being encreased, by reason, of this new confederacy betwixt the Emperour and the French King, they offered by the meanes of the Duke of Vrbin, a friend to both sides, to deliuer vp all that which they possessed (the appurtenances of Faen∣za and Riminy excepted) if the Pope would giue admittance to their Ambassa∣dors to come and make the oth of obedience, wherevnto in time before he would not consent. The Pope inclined to this proposition made by the Duke of Vrbin* 1.8 (though vnwillingly) in regard he had so highly threatned them, for hee perceiued [ 20] the affaires betwixt the Emperor and the French King to be drawne out at length, and that in the meane time those of Furli, Imola, and Cesenna, did indure many discommodities.

Vpon this consent, that which they had offered being re-deliuered, the Senate sent their Ambassadors, who after they had protested obedience with the ac∣customed ceremonies, they brought home with them to Venice no signe where∣by it might be perceiued that he was become any whit the milder. In the meane space the Pope perceiuing well enough that without the French Kings aide he could not hurt the Venetians, and that he could not as yet induce him to make warre vpon them, to the end his Popedome should not be spent vnproffitably or [ 30] without honour, he turned his thoughts else-where, and entreated the French King to helpe him to reduce vnder the Churches obedience the Cities of Bo∣lognia* 1.9 and Perugia, the which in all ages did belong to the Sea of Rome, and were possessed, the one by Iohn Paul Baillon, and the other by Iohn Bentiuogle whose predecessors hauing vsurped them, were become absolute Lords thereof.

The Popes request was very pleasing to the King, because thereby hee might finde meanes to keepe his friendship, from which he was in some sort estranged, in regard of the Kings alliance with the Venetians, which did much trouble him. Wherevpon because he would not disapoint him, he offered him all aide and suc∣cour: and the Pope on the other side gaue him the breefes of Cardinal∣ship [ 40] for the Bishops of Achy, and Bayeux, with authority to dispose of the benifices of the Dutchy of Milan. The execution of this enterprise was delaied, by reason of the iourney which Maximillian desired to make into Italy with his* 1.10 army, to receiue his Imperiall crowne at Rome, wherein he being desirous not to be hindred by the Venetians, hee sent foure Ambassadors to acquaint them with his intent, and to intreate them to grant a passage for him and his army like∣wise, assuring them that he would passe thorough their territories without distur∣bing them in any sort, being desirous likewise to vnite himselfe with them.

The Venetians hauing a long time consulted therevpon, made him a pleasant* 1.11 answere: for after they had giuen him to vnderstand how much they desired to [ 50] conforme themselues to his will, they councelled him to come into Italy without armes, especially comming for so peaceable a matter which was pleasing to all men, where on the contrary comming in armes, Italy desparing for so many ca∣lamities which it had susteined, would rise, determining to take armes, and not to

lay open a way to new troubles: and that the French King might doe the like for assurance of the state of Millan.

The determination of Maximillian caused the Pope to defetre his enterprize till an other time, being perswaded therevnto by the King, who was vrged of his promise about that businesse, least they by reason of that accident of Italy should rise in armes: as also because he feared to prouoke the Venetians, who had sent him word, that they would take armes for the defence of Bolognia, if the Pope did not first giue ouer to them the rights to Faenza which did belong to the Church.

But the Pope being by nature sodaine and impatient, would not temporize, but sought all meanes to effect his purpose after a furious manner. And without [ 10] staying for any other resolution, he departed from Rome with fiue hundred men at armes, where fortune did so fauour him, as Iohn Paul Baillon, by the Duke of* 1.12 Vrbins perswasion, went to him to Oruietta, where he was receiued into fauour, hauing wholly referred himselfe to the Popes discretion and deliuered into his hands the castles of Perugia and the territory therevnto belonging, into which he afterwards entred. Then marching towards Bolognia, being attended on by six hundred French Launces, and three thousand footmen of the Kings forces, he went by the way of the mountaine, because he would not come vpon the territo∣ry* 1.13 of Riminy which the Venerians held, and being come to Cesenna, he com∣manded Bentiuoli to depart from Bolognia on paine of most greeuous censures [ 20] both spirituall and temporall.

The Bentiuoles had made great preparations for their owne defence, but all their hope was turned to dispaire, so soone as they heard of the French-mens arri∣uall in the Popes army, and much more when the Lord of Chaumont, who con∣ducted them, did tell them the same day that he arriued at Castel-nouo on the Bo∣lognians territory, that the King being willing to obserue whatsoeuer he was tied vnto, by the capitulations of the protection, did meane to continue him in the possession of his goods, so that he would leaue the Gouernment of the City to the Church. At these words Bentiuoli and his children, who before, with great threat∣nings had published euery where that they would defend themselues, being who∣ly [ 30] * 1.14 discouraged made answere that they would altogether referre themselues to his arbitrement, beseeching him by all meanes to mediate tollerable conditions. Vpon this answere the Lord of Chaumont being come within three miles nere to Bolognia, delt so with the Pope, as he gaue him leaue safely to depart from Bo∣lognia with his wife and children, and to dwelin what place of the Dutchy of Mi∣lan he pleased, permitting him to sell and carry away with him all his mouables, and to enioy the immouables which he possessed with iust title.

The Bentiuoles being departed, the people of Bolognia sent their Ambassa∣dors* 1.15 to the Pope for to giue him the entire gouernment of their City. At the same time the King of Arragon being imbarked at Barcelona came along by the [ 40] coast of Prouence to Genoa; and from thence keeping close by the land continu∣ing his iourney he entred into the Hauen of Gayetta. Then being conducted to Naples, he was receiued with great magnificence. Ambassadors from all places of* 1.16 Italy came thither with speed, and among others from Venice, whither George Pi∣sani and Marc Dandulo were sent to congratulate and honour so great a Prince.

The Pope likewise, notwithstanding that he was displeased for that he had not▪ sent to offer his obedience as the manner was, sent a Nuntio to him to in∣cite him against the Venetians, thinking that for the recouery of the Hauens of Apuglia, which the Venetians held, he had wished their ouerthrow: And the Venetians on the contrary did still study to keepe his friendship. [ 50]

Soone after King Lewis came into Italy, by reason of the rebellion of Genoa,* 1.17 the Venetians sent Dominico Trenisano, and Paul Pisa•…•…i their Ambassadors to him to congratulate his arriuall, who came to Milan, whether the king came so soone as he had recouered Genoa.

The Pope being at Bolognia, had solicited the King to come into Italy that they* 1.18 might conferre together, wherevnto the King did incline, albeit the Popes intents were against the Venetians, whom he hated in regard of the Cities of Romagnia which they possessed. But when he vnderstood that the King determined to take armes in fauour of the Gentlemen against the people of Genoa (because the strife betwixt the Gentlemen and the Commons had beene cause of the rebellion) he was much discontented thereat▪ because he had euer fauored the people against the Nobility, and he perswaded the King as much as in him lay to absteine from armes, alleaging that it might kindle some fire in Italy, which would hinder the warre which they had decreed against the Venetians. To the which, perceiuing [ 10] the King would not agree, being transported with choller, he gaue out on a so∣daine at the beginning of the yeere 1507. contrary to al mens expectation, that* 1.19 he would returne to Rome, saying that the a•…•…e of Bolognia did not agree with his health•…•… wherevpon the King was troubled, not knowing what to thinke, be∣cause* 1.20 he interrupted that which himselfe had •…•…raued, and did all he could to alter his determination. But the Kings earnest instance to change his minde did en∣crease the Popes suspition, which hee had conceiued that the King would keepe him still there, where they might meet together at one selfe same place, which did so much the more confirme him in his determination, wherein being obstinate, he departed from Bolognia about the latter end of February, being not able to dis∣semble [ 20] the disdaine which he had conceiued of the King.

By this wrath, the hatred which he did beare to the Venetians being in some sort mittigated, hee determined to passe by the City of Faenza, new quarrels arising euery houre betwixt the King and him, in regard of the Bentinoles, whom he would haue the King to expell from the Dutchy of Milan, albeit by his owne consent they were permitted to abide there, in such sort as nothing could appease him, complayning greeuously of the King: and being thereby prouoked, he did* 1.21 by his Nu•…•…tios and by a Breefe, giue the Emperour, and the Electors to the Em∣pire, to vnderstand, that the French Kings preparations for his passage into Italy, with a mighty army, vnder pretence to appease the sedition of Genoa, was in ef∣fect [ 30] to oppresse the state of the Church, and to vsurpe the Imperiall dignity.

The Venetians likewise fearing the Kings comming into Italy with so great an army, did giue the like aduertizement? Maximillian being desirous of nouel∣ty, hauing receiued these aduertizements, held an Imperiall Diet in the City of Constance where all the Barons, Princes and Common-wealths of Germany be∣ing assembled, he did in such sort agrauate the matter against the French King by his oration, as the mindes of all those that were there present, were meruei∣lously mooued, where he exhibited the Popes and Venetians letters of aduer∣tizement.

The French King hauing intelligence of the whole matter, did on a sodaine [ 40] cassier his army, to take away the cause of such a suspition, and would himselfe haue repassed the mounts, had not the desire which he had to speake with the King of Arragon staied him, who was preparing for his returne into Spaine, and* 1.22 leauing Naples came directly to Sauona, where he had appointed to conferre with the French King, who for that cause was come from Millan to attend him there: where Fernand with the Queene his wife being arriued, all distrusts be∣ing laied aside on both parts, with infinite numbers of reciprocall embrasings they had diuers long and secret conferences betwixt themselues, and by that which fell out afterward, it was apparent, that they promised a perpetuall league of friend∣ship one with the other, and that Ferdinand should vse meanes to reconcile the [ 50] Emperour and the French King, to the end that all of them being vnited toge∣ther, they might afterward shew themselues open enemies to the Venetians.

The two Kings departed from Sauona the fourth day after their arriuall, with the same shewes of loue and friendship. The one went by sea to Barcelona, and

the other by land returned into France, leauing the other affaires of Italy at the same stay. King Lewis in the meane time perceiuing that the Diet of Constance* 1.23 continued, where Maximillian had so highly animated all the German Princes a∣gainst him, he sent vnder-hand certaine men of purpose to Constance, who should not be publikely knowne, but dealing secretly, should worke meanes▪ by the hid∣den fauour of the Princes his friends, to appease the mindes of the rest, excusing those slanders which were imposed vpon him, by the euidence of the effects, see∣ing that after the reduction of Genoa to his obedience, he had on a sodaine cassie∣•…•…ed his army, and returned with all possible speed into France, to take away all suspition that he would attempt nothing against the Church, nor against the [ 10] title of the sacred Empire▪ and with these iustifications they wrought meanes to appease the Germans armes, by the force of gold which they so highly loue.

These things did greatly trouble the French Kings minde, who was altogether vncertaine of the Venetians meanings, who would not openly discouer them∣selues* 1.24 but had euer held matters in suspense. The Dyet of Constance beeing ended it was there concluded, after sundry disputations, that Maximillian should haue for his passage into Italy eight thousand horse, and two and twenty thou∣sand footmen; paled by the Country for sixe monthes, and sixe score thousand Florins of the Rhyne for the expence of the Artillery, and other ordinary charges. Vpon the report of these newes the Venetians were greatly perplexed in their [ 20] mindes as well as others, because they knew not whereon to resolue, in regard of* 1.25 the great meanes which euery one of them vsed to winne them to his side. The Emperour at the beginning sent three Ambassadors of great place to them▪ to intreat them to giue him passage thorow their territories, and to make a more strict alliance with him, wherein should be mentioned, that they should be parti∣cipants of the reward of the victory. The French King on the other side, did not cease by his Ambassadors, and by that of Venice, which was resident with him, to doe all he might to induce them to oppose themselues by armes against the Em∣perors comming, as hurtfull to either of them, offering them for this purpose all his forces, and to continue for euer their confederate. [ 30]

The Venetians, who could haue beene well contented to haue liued at quiet as Newters, perceiued themselues to be in such sort pressed by the Emperor, as they were of necessity either to refuse it, or to grant him passage. For they feared, that by their refusall they should be troubled first, and by granting it, they should ensring their confederacy with the King: And yet neuerthelesse, each of the Se∣nators did affirme that it was necessary openly to adhere to one of the sides, but they knew not to which, and after great diuersity of opinions, the remembrance at last of the Emperors continuall inclination, to recouer the Cities which they possessed, which he pretended to belong to the Empire, or to the house of Austria did most preuaile. [ 40]

They made answere then to the Ambassadors, that their determination was to* 1.26 grant him passage comming without an army, and to stop it if he came in armes; saying that necessity enforced them so to doe, in regard of their confederacy with the French King, by which they were bound to assist him in the defence of the Dutchy of Millan, with a certaine number of men specified therein.

Maximillian being frustrate of his hope to haue the Venetians on his side, was incombred with other doubts which did wholy delay the effect of his deseignes. For first of all; That foundation whereon he chiefly builded, that the Cities and Potentates of Italy, fearing his name and army, would come to composition, and* 1.27 would furnish him with sufficient summes of money, did daily decay: Then the [ 50] conclusions of the Diet of Constance vanished into ayre; when they perceiued the great preparations of the French King, and the new resolution of the Ve∣netians.

The Pope likewise, who would not shew himselfe more affectionate to the one

side then the other, did refuse the demand he made that it might be lawfull for him* 1.28 to take a hundred thousand ducats which were leauied in Germany for the warre against the Turkes and were kept in the same Prouince, and were not to be con∣uerted to any other vse without the leaue of the Sea of Rome: Yet neuerthelesse in the middest of all these difficulties, he forgate nothing which might nourish the report of his comming downe, in such sort as all those who stood in awe of him made mighty prouisions in diuers places, but they were vncertaine, with what forces, at what time, and from whence he would come.

The French King had prouided for the Dutchy of Milan, and for the frontiers of* 1.29 Burgondy: And had besides sent Iohn Iames Triuncle with foure hundred French [ 10] Launces, and foure thousand footmen to Verona to the Venetians aide, who had sent the Earle of Petillan to Rouero, with foure hundred men at armes, and store of foot-forces, to the end there to keepe backe those which should come by Trent, and Bartholmew Aluiana into the Friul with eight hundred men at armes.

The Emperour at the beginning of the yeere 1508. was desirous to put in ex∣ecution the reports which had beene spred abroad of his comming downe, and* 1.30 sent an Herald to Verona to summon the inhabitants to prouide lodging for himselfe, and for foure thousand horse which he brought with him, going to Rome to take the Imperiall crowne. The Gouernor of the City, by the aduice of the Senate, with whom the matter was communicated at Venice, made him an∣swere, [ 20] that for his coronation which he mentioned he needed not so many men at armes and such store of Artillery.

Maximillian vpon this answer being already come to Trent departed thence in a morning before day with fifteene hundred horse, and foure thousand foot∣men, not of those which had beene graunted him at Constance, but of those of his* 1.31 Court, and of his owne state, and tooke the way of the mountaines towards Vin∣cenza. And the Marquis of Brandenbourge marched at the same time towards Rouero with fiue hundred horse and two thousand foot-men, but he returned the next day, not being able to obtaine any passage. The Emperour by the way of the mountaines being come within twelue miles of Vincenza, and hauing taken [ 30] the territory of the seuen Commons, did on a sodaine returne towards Bolsane which is a towne farther of from the confines of Italy then Trent, whereat all men did greatly wonder.

This did awake the Venetians courage, did incite them to leauy diuers foot-troupes,* 1.32 and to make great preparations, vrging the French King to doe the like. They chose two Prouidatori, Andre Griti & George Cornare, one of whom went towards the Rheticke, and the other into Friull. Aluiana was commanded speedily into Friul where George Cornare the Prouidator already was, because foure hundred of Maximillians horse and fiue thousand of his footmen being come thither and entred into the vale of Cadora, had taken the Burrough and [ 40] the Castle.

Aluiana hauing passed the mountaines full of snow, came in two daies neere to Cadora, where tarrying for his footmen that came after him; hee seized on a passage, which was not kept by the Germans, by which men en∣ter into that valley. The comming of Aluiana did encourage those of the Country who did affect the Venetians, who sodainely did possesse the other passages of the valey, by which the enemies were to retire. The Germans perceiuing themselues to bee shutte in, and that no hope of safety was left them but in their armes, they came with great furie to assaile Aluiana, who* 1.33 did brauely receiue them, the fight lasted certaine houres with great fer∣uency, [ 50] but at the last the Germans, being not able to resist the numbers nor pro∣wesse of their enemies, were defeated, and aboue a thousand of them laie dead on the place, with diuers of them taken prisoners: of the Venetians verie few died.

Before this exploite of warre, the Emperor had sent Luke de Renaldis his Am∣bassador* 1.34 to Venice, to entreat the Senators to grant him passage thorow their territories, as hee had often-times before requested them, that hee might goe to Rome, saying that his King would come armed for feare of his enemies▪ Neuer∣thelesse hee did assure the Signory of Venice, that hee and his would passe with∣out dooing wrong to any of their subiects, or else that hee would passe without Armes, prouided that the common-wealth would giue him hostages for the assu∣rance of his passage. To that, Prince Loredano answered,

that Maximillian was not ignorant, how that the Common-wealth had euer beene a friend to him and to his father the Emperor Frederick, and that it was not well done of him in coun∣terchange, [ 10] to vse all hostile actions against them, as to rauage and spoile their countrey, to take their townes and castles by force, whereof they had iust cause to complaine, and to call God to witnesse, whether they had deserued it at his hands: neuerthelesse hee would propound the demand to the Senate, and according to the same, he would giue him answer.

And because Cornare had written to the Senate, that Aluiana was in great hope, and would, in a manner, bee bound, that the enemies should in short space recompence the wrongs and spoiles which they had committed, the Senate was* 1.35 of opinion to deferre the answering of Maximillians Ambassadors, till such time as they had newes from Friul. And so soone as they heard from thence, they [ 20] answered the Ambassador as they had done in times before, without making any mention of the defeate of the Almains, and caused him to bee accompanied tho∣row the Rhetike countrey, to the end he should receiue no out-rage.

Aluiana after the taking of the castle of Cadora would not stand still in so faire* 1.36 away, but pursuing his good fortune, recouered Portonanoue, then Cremousa seated on a high hill, and from thence went and encamped before Gorithia, which is at the foote of the Alpes, strong by situation, and well fortified, and which hath a castle of difficult accesse. But hauing planted his Artillery before the towne, hee tooke it the fourth day after by composition, by reason that they within wanted Armor, water, and victuals. The Captaine of the castle yeelded vp the place in [ 30] few dayes after, receiuing foure thousand Ducats. The Venetians made diuerse fortifications there, to serue in time to come against the Turkes, to stop their pas∣sage ouer the riuer Lisona.

Aluiana after the taking of Gorithia, went to besiege Thryeste, and tooke it with the Castle likewise, which being seated on the Gulphe of Venice, was very com∣modious to them for their traffick: wherevpon the Venetians beeing puffed vp with their prosperous successe, determined to follow the course of the victory▪ and to make warre on Maximillian, by entring farther into his countrey: But Do∣minico* 1.37 Morosino, Procurator of Saint Marke, a man of foure-score and ten yeares of age, wise and aduised, began to speake and to entreate the Senate, not to suffer [ 40] any farther attempts to bee made, saying

That Germany was not pleased that Maximillian made warre on the common-wealth, when as hee might freely liue at peace: that it was also to bee feared, that the same Germany would take it in euill part, and would resent it, if any farther roads were made into their countrey, for they would not suffer their Imperiall dignity to be so abased and contemned. That the offence which he had committed against the common-wealth was not great, for which neuerthelesse thorow the goodnesse of God, he had made a wor∣thy satisfaction, all his souldiers hauing beene cut in peeces in Friul, Cadora, and Portonanoue beeing recouered, and wee haue lost nothing on the Verona territory, nor receiued any disgrace. And heerewith beeing satisfied without [ 50] passing on any farther, we shall receiue great profit by our cessation from Armes, and especially the friendship and good-will of the whole German Nation, of whom wee receiue infinite commodities, as well for the trade of merchandize, whereby our customes are encreased, as for all other matters concerning proui∣sion

of victuals. That it was indeed a glorious matter to vanquish a mans ene∣mies in warre, and to augment their owne bounds and confines: But that it was more glorious to •…•…ame and vanquish a mans owne passions and himselfe▪ that the euents of warre depended commonly on fortune, who is variable and inconstant: But Councells proceeding from mature deliberation and from wisdome are firme and stable and do proffit much more then those which issue from furious rashnesse.

The good old man hauing vttered this speech, the heate of those who craued warre was in some sort cooled, and therfore they concluded nothing for that pre∣sent, but said only they would consider of it at more leisure. But Maximilian con∣tinuing [ 10] the warre in the confines beneath Verona, and raising forces in diuers places of the Friull against them, heerby abusing their loue, warre was resolued* 1.38 against him on the fourth of Aprill. This resolution of the Senate was on a so∣dain sent not only to Gr•…•…tle & Cornare Prouidatory, but likewise to Ieronimo Conta∣ren who was Prouidator in Histria with certaine Galleis, to the end that each of them should enuade whatsoeuer they found to belong to Maximilian, either on the firme land or at Sea. According to this commandement Cornare, and Aluiana, pursuing their victory tooke Protonoue, then Fume which is a Citty of Sclauo∣nia, which they burnt: and passing ouet the Alpes they tooke Possonia seated on the marches of Hungary▪ This was done in the Friul, whilst not farre from Trent [ 20] the Germaine Army which was come to Calliana did assaile three thousand Ve∣netian* 1.39 footmen, who beeing well fortefied on the hill of Bretonic fled thence neuerthelesse so soone as they descried the enemies, whervppon the Germans deriding their cowardize, did raze the fortifications which they had made on the hill, burning the houses and then went back to Calliana▪

But this great army of Maximilian, within a short space came to nothing, by* 1.40 reason of a contention of small importance which arose about the paiment of the Grisons, who mutining therefore did spoile the victualls of the Campe: by meanes whereof all things being in disorder, and all the Grisons being departed, the residue of the Army, who were about seuen thousand men, were enforced to [ 30] retire. The Venetians then made incursions on the neighbor Villages, and came and assailed La Pietra, six miles from Trent: but those of Trent comming to their* 1.41 reskew the Venetian companies retired, and went to ass•…•…ile the Fort of Creste, which is a place of importance, which yeelded before the supplies from Trent a∣riued, which caused the Almaines to re-assemble their foot forces, and to returne with a thousand horses and six thousand Lansquenets to Calliana which is dis∣tant from La Pietra a crosbow shotte.

The Venetians returned to beseege this Castle of La Pietra with foure thou∣sand horse and sixteene thousand foote, determining to batter it with sixteene pieces of Ordinance: The two armies were within a mile one of another, each of [ 40] them hauing the Castle before them. But the Venetians hauing lost diuers of* 1.42 their men there, with two peices of ordinance which the Almaines tooke from them in a salley, thinking it lost time to tarry there any longer, seeing they could not enforce the enemies to fight they went to Rouero, and the Almains to Trent, the most parte of whom within a while after disbanded.

Mazimilian, who during these warlike exploits had runne vp and downe from place to place to be releiued with men and money, perceiuing all men to forsake him, after the defeat of his forces at Cadora, sent a Gentleman of his to Venice to craue truce for three monethes: but the Senate contemned it, and would not grant any for lesse then a whole yeare, not without the knowledge and consent [ 50] * 1.43 of the French King: Maximilian being the more danted for the losse of Tryeste, and other places of the Sea-coast, did solicite the Bishop of Trent to inuite (as of himselfe) the Venetians to truce, thinking by that meanes the sooner to purchase Peace. The Venetians made answer; That it lay not in their power: but that he

ought to mooue the French King.

For this purpose Commissioners were appointed to meet and conferre toge∣ther, for Maximilians part, the Bishop or Trent, and Serentano the Emperors Secretary: for the French King, Triuulce, and Iacomo Galfredo President of Millan,* 1.44 and for the Venetians, Zacharie Contarene, a particular Ambassador deputed for that businesse. Conferring together they easily condiscended to all conditions sauing that the Frenchmen would haue a generall truce, and that all the confe∣derates of either of them, as well out of Italy as within should be therein compri∣zed, and especially the Duke of Guelders, wherevnto Maximilians Agents would not consent, because their maister had determined to ruine that Duke, saying [ 10] that in the treaty there was nothing mentioned but the warres of Italy, and that nothing ought to be entermingled therewith but that which concerned Italy. The* 1.45 Venetians did all they might to content the French King, but perceiuing the Al∣maines to be obstinate in that businesse they resolued for their part to accept of truce in the same manner as they had concluded it, beeing desirous to free them∣selues from such a warre, which lighted wholly on their dominions; and notwith∣standing the protestation of the French Kings Commissioners, that a mutuall en∣terprise ought not to be finished but in common, the Venetians went on, and con∣cluded the truce on the twentith of Aprill, the which was speedily ratified by the Emperour and the Venetians, by meanes whereof the warrs ceased betwixt them, [ 20] and diuers did hope that Italy thereby should for a time enioye Peace and quiet.

Armes beeing layd a side, Aluiana and Cornare returned to Venice where they were receiued with great pompe, and in a manner triumphall: The French King* 1.46 hauing intelligence that the truce was concluded and signed, shewed signes of discontent, and complained to Antonio Condelmerio Ambassador for the Veneti∣ans in his Court, saying that he had not deserued of the Seigneiury of Venice that without staying for his answer and consent they had granted truce to Maxi∣milian: That he did not greatly care if the confederates of Italy were comprized therein, prouided that the Duke of Guelders might be assured in his state, whom he much affected, and yet neuerthelesse the Signory had made his desire frus∣trate, [ 30] wherein he did hope to be assisted and furthered: And yet he had an hundred thousand crownes ready to employ in his ayde, and that he would not endure that any wrong should be done to him by the fault of his confederates.

The King hauing vttered these words in choller did repent him of it, and fei∣ning to forget all matters, he beganne to entertaine him with more pleasing dis∣course; namely when the Ambassador had excused the common-wealth, and told him that the Senate euer had a principall regard to maintaine him in the Dutchy of Millan, to the end that whilest the truce lasted hee might not be molested in* 1.47 that State. The King gaue him then some hope that he would ratifie the truce, but in himselfe he beganne to thinke on all meanes how to be reuenged. [ 40]

The Emperor on the other side not digesting the brauadoes which the Vene∣tians had offered him, and being desirous to resent the wrongs which he had re∣ceiued, because he had no hope to draw any more aid from the Germaine Prin∣ces, made shew that he had a will to vnite himselfe with the French King against the Venetians, as the only remedy to recouer his honor and lost states. The Pope likewise prouoked the King against them, because, besides the old hatred which he did beare to them, he thought that the Bandetti of Furli, who dwelt at Faenza, had by their meanes made some attempt on that Citty.

The King calling to minde (besides his new displeasure for the truce) all the* 1.48 wronges which he thought they had done him in his warres of Naples, and bee∣ing [ 50] desirous to snatch forth of their handes Cremona and other townes which had beene a long time possessed by the Dukes of Millan; had the same inclination like to the Emperor. wherefore the better to bring it to passe, they began betwixt thēselues to ha•…•…ken to the contentiō betwixt the Arch-duke, & the D. of Geldres,

and for that purpose they chose the Citty of Cambray for their place of confe∣rence. Whether from the Emperor came the Lady Marguerit his daughter, Re∣gent of the Low Countreys, and Mathew Langy the Secretary, and for the French* 1.49 King the Cardinall of Amboise, who vnder coulour of treating a peace betwixt the Arch-duke and the Duke of Guelders (as they gaue it forth) to the end that the true cause might not be knowne to the Venetians, they concluded a perpetu∣all peace and confederacy, betwixt the Pope, the Emperor, the French King, and the King of Arragon, against the Venetians, each of them to recouer those things which they held from them.

The new confederacie beeing thus concluded, the Cardinall of Amboise de∣parted [ 10] * 1.50 from Cambray, the Bishop of Paris, and the Count of Carpy went to the Emperor from the French King, for the ratification of the peace, who did soone ratifie and confirme it by oath, the like did the French King, and when it was af∣terwards brought to the King of Arragon, albeit he had some doubt in his mind, yet neuerthelesse he did forth with ratifie it with the same solemnities: But the* 1.51 Pope made more difficulty in the matter, beeing on the one side swayed by a de∣sire to recouer the citties of Romagnia, and with his hatred to the Venetians, and on the other side, his feare of the French Kings forces did greatly mooue him: As also for that he thought it a dangerous matter for himselfe, if the Em∣perour by recouering from the Venetians the places which they held, and which [ 20] did belong to the Empire, should grow too great in Italy. To preuent this incon∣uenience, hee thought it more commodious to seeke to recouer his townes by a more gentle way then by warre.

To this purpose then hee laboured by all meanes to induce the Venetians to yeeld vp Riminy and Faenza to him, declaring to them that the great dangers which threatned them by the combination of so many Princes, would bee much greater if hee vnited himselfe with them in this confederacy, For hee could not* 1.52 choose but pursue them both with spirituall and temporall Armes; Hee caused in secret this remonstrance to bee made by a Greeke called Constantine Comniato to Iohn Badoario Ambassador for the Signiory of Venice to the Sea Apostolick, for [ 30] this confederacie was not yet diuulged. The Ambassador gaue speedy notice thereof to the Senate, who had an ynkling of it from else-where, and were de∣termined by no meanes to quit those townes, as they aduertised the Ambassador according to the discourse made to him by Constantine.

Now it was told them that they might easily cause Maximillian to change his minde, and distract him from the alliance with the French King, in regard of the* 1.53 antient enmity betwixt them: they secretly sent Iohn Peter Stella, Secretary to the Senate, to Maximillian, who had often-times beene with him, and was very well knowne to the Emperour, to the end hee might finde meanes to reconcile him to the Senate. This man beeing too hasty in the execution of his desseigne, and not [ 40] hauing well considered on the meanes, and discouering himselfe to the Empe∣rors domestick seruants, King Lewis his Ambassadors, who were with Maximilli∣an, had knowledge of his comming, whereby hee did no good to the common∣wealth. George Pisan likewise comming to Rome, by the Senates commandement, to treate with the Pope, his iourney was to no purpose.

The Senate despairing of peace, made leuies of men and horse, and decreed to enrole the greatest number of men at armes and light horse that they could raise, among whom were diuerse Stradiots, and a great number of footmen, they commanded likewise for resistance at Sea, if King Lewis should come to assaile them, fifteene Galleis to bee armed. They likewise dispatched André Badoario to [ 50] the King of England to purchase him for their friend.

In the meane time Lascaris King Lewis Ambassador at Venice was dismissed,* 1.54 the like was done to Condelmare, who was their Ambassador in France, vnto whom from the King was presented a chaine of gold, the which he refused, saying;

That he would not receiue any present from a King, that was their enemie and so departed. Carsode, in like manner who was Agent at Milan departed thence: within a while after supplies came to the Senate, of a thousand light horse, and fiue thou∣sand strangers foote-men, a thousand Archers from Candy, and another thousand armed at all sortes from the Country of Albania. They did after-wards with speed fortifie the Castle of Cremona, and furnisht it withall things necessary for a long seege: As also all there Townes, and Castles neere thervnto, of which forti∣fications* 1.55 the Count Petillan had expresse charge, who comming one day meanely accompanied to Bergamo, to see what was done there, those of Milan hauing no∣tice thereof by their spies, two hundred horse sallied forth of Milan, in the night, [ 10] euery horse man hauing a huquebusier behind him, who hauing crost the riuer Adda, hid themselues in the wood, to surprize him, which they might easily haue done, he not mistrusting it. But the Gouernor of Bergamo, being aduertized by peasants of the country of the Ambuscado, sent sodainly after the Earle who was already departed, and so saued him from that danger. The Senate hauing notice of the French-mens Ambuscado to surprize the Earle, accounted the warre to be denounced, where-vpon they chose Andrew Gritti and George Cornare for Bro∣uidators, who in the time of the Rhetick war, had the same command. The Pope who had deferred to ratifie the confederacy, till the very last day assigned for the* 1.56 ratification▪ did confirme it, but with expresse declaration that hee would [ 20] not execute any hostile act against the Venetians, till the French King did begin the warre. This was about the latter end of the yeare 1508. When as the league beeing ratified, by all the confederates, the French King beegan to make very great preparations, and beeing come to Lyons, hee caused his com∣panies to march towards the Mounts; and sixe thousand Swisses, whome hee had in a readinesse, prepared them-selues to come downe at the same-time into Italy.

The Venetians on the other side with great courage made preparations (as hath* 1.57 beene said:) but considering afterward how all Christendome in a manner were in armes against them, they desirous to trie by all meanes possible if they could [ 30] dissolue that Vnion, repenting for that they had not separated the Pope from the other, the which they might haue done by the onely yeelding vp of Faenza vnto him. They would haue renewed their former treaties, both with the Emperour, and the King of Spaine: but it was in vaine with all three of them: for the Pope could no more accept of that he had desired: the Catholike King had no meanes to diuert the rest, and the Emperor did so abhorre them, as he would not vouchsafe to looke vpon their Ambassador: wherevpon they conuerted all their thoughts to defence, and to wage (as hath beene said) great numbers of horse and foote, and to arme diuers vessells as well to keepe the sea, as the Lake of La Garde, the riuer Po, and other Neighbour places. [ 40] * 1.58

Sondry prodegies which did happen did greatly terrifie them: First they lost a barke within the which were ten thousand Ducats, sent by the Senate to Rauen∣na, which was drownd: then lightning fell on the Castle of Bressia: after that, the place where the Charters of the Common-wealth were kept, fell wholy downe to the ground, and fier tooke either by chance, or by the secret malice of some in their Arcenall in the same place where their salt peeter lay, where it burnt twelue Galleis, and a very great quantity of Munition which did much amaze them, be∣cause it presaged nothing but mishap. They made preparations then cheefely on that side, whereby the French King was to come, which was towards the Giradade, crossing the riuer Adda, neere to Cassiana, and therefore they assem∣bled [ 50] their army at Pontuico, on the riuer Oglio: the Earle of Petillan was made Generall thereof, Bartilmeo Aluiana was Gouernor, and George Cornare and Andre Gritt•…•… aboue named were prouidatory.

These men being assembled to determine after what manner the warre should

be managed, the opinions were different betwixt the generall and the gouernor: This man was of opinion to make the seate of the war in the enemies country, ra∣ther* 1.59 then in their owne, and to goe and assaill the Dutchy of Milan, before the French King should passe the Mounts: The other, who for his long experience, would not heare tell of tempting fortune, was of a contrary opinion, and coun∣selled, that contemning the losse of the countrey of Gyradade, they should en∣campe neere to the Citty of Orci, as in times past other great Captaines had* 1.60 done in the warres betwixt the Venetians and the Milanois. The Senate reiected both these counsells; that of Aluiana as to bold, and that of the Generall as ouer fearefull: wherevpon they determined, that the army should draw neare to the [ 10] riuer Adda, because they would not leaue the Gyradad in prey to the enemies, with the Senates expresse commandement, not to fight with the enemy but vpon great hope or vrgent necessity.

The French King hauing passed the Mounts with an intent to fight, sent his Herald to Venice, to denounce warre; and in passing by Cremona to doe the like to the Venetian Magistrates. The Lord of Chaumont beganne the first motion of the warre on the fifteenth of Aprill, crossing by a foord the riuer Adda, neere* 1.61 to Calciana, with three thousand horse; and passed ouer by boate six thousand footemen and the Artillery after-wards, marching directly to the towne of Treui, which being beseeged and battered, yeelded: wherevpon Iustinian Morosin, Vite∣li [ 20] de citto de Castello, and Vincenzo de Nalde, who were within it, and with them an* 1.62 hundred light horse, and about a thousand footemen remained prisoners, the Sradiots saued them-selues by flight. Vpon report of the taking of this place, diuers neighbour-townes did like-wise yeeld. The Lord of Chaumont did soone after with all his forces repasse the riuer Adda. The Marquis of Mantua came with his forcas to Casal-Major, which forthwith yeelded. Rocalatin like-wise* 1.63 hauing on a bridge of boates passed the riuer Adda, where it entreth into the Po, came and made incursions on the Cremonois, with an 150. Lances & 3000. foote∣men, the like also did they of the Garrison of Loda. The peasants likewise of the Mountainy of Briança made incursions as farre as Bergamo. After these first [ 30] attempts of warre, the Pope for his part began by spirituall armes, for hee publi∣shed* 1.64 a terrible Bull, in forme of a Monitory against them, specyfing al the vsurpa∣tions made by the Venetians on the Churches lands, and the authority which they attributed to them-selues to the preiudice thereof: whereby he admonished them to yeeld vp within foure and twenty daies next following the Churches townes which they possessed, with the reuenew receiued by them euer since they enioyed them, vpon paine, in case of disobedience of incurring censures, and interdicti∣ons, not onely for the Citty of Venice, but likewise for all the townes vnder their obedience: declaring all those to be excōmunicate, who should in any sort detaine them, guing power to all men in all places, to seaze on their goods and to make [ 40] slaues of their persons. The Senate kept this Monitory close from the people, for feare least they should haue mutined, and threw in an appeall to the next Gene∣ral councel, which was carried and fixed on the Churches of Rome, by vnknown* 1.65 persons. At the very same time, in a manner, King Lewis his Herald came to Ve∣nice, who in his Kings name in open Senate did denounce the warre already be∣gunne for diuers occasions which he declared in their presence. The Duke by the aduice of the Senate, answered, seeing that the French King did denounce warre, contrary to their aliance with him, the which they had neuer violated, they would with their forces, and with the iustice of their cause seeke to defend them-selues▪

After this answer, they gaue order to their army, the which being assembled [ 50] at Pontuico, to the number of two thousand men at armes, three thousand light horse and stradiots, fifteene thousand footemen chosen forth of all Italy, and fif∣teene thousand other choice footemen of their own teritories, with great quanti∣ty of Artillery, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 came to Fontanella, which is within sixe miles of Loda, a place

very commodious for the reliefe of Cremona, Crema, Carauagia & Bergamo,* 1.66 Citties vnder their obedience. And because they had a fit time to recouer Treui, by reason that the Kings Armie was not yet assembled, the Senate was of opini∣on to assaile it. The ordnance beeing planted, which made great execution, those* 1.67 within it did yeeld the next day following, on condition that the souldiers liues should bee saued, who were disarmed, the Captaines to bee prisoners, and the towne to be vsed at their discretion.

The King was at Milan, who departed thence▪ so soone as hee vnderstood that that towne was battered, for to releeue it, and came and passed ouer the riuer of Adda on three bridges made of boates, neere to Cassiana, with his whole Ar∣mie, [ 10] the enemie 〈◊〉〈◊〉 stopping him, who hauing entred Treui, busied them∣selues in pillaging the towne, from whence the Captaines could not with-draw their souldiers, neither by entreaties nor threatnings, vntill that Aluiana in a •…•…age caused the towne to be set on fire, to make them to depart thence. But it was too late▪ for the French were wholy come ouer the riuer.* 1.68

The King so soone as hee had passed ouer the Riuer, came and lodged within little more then a mile of the Venetians campe, who beeing encamped in a place strong both by sit•…•… and arte, the King could not assaile them but with great disad∣uantage. The matter was debated, where some of the Kings councell were of opi∣nion to draw out the warre in length, expecting the Emperors comming downe, [ 20] * 1.69 for then the Venetians should bee enforced to come to a battle, not being able to looke to so many places at once. But the King was of a contrary opinion, as well for feare least the Emperour would come too late, as for the desire which hee had, being there in person with all the forces of his kingdome, that he might with∣out an others helpe finish that warre by a glorious victory. The armies in the meane time did not stirre, but remained incamped, the one before the other, for the space of a day, with sundry skirmishes betwixt the light horse on either side. The next day the King marched towards Riuolta, to prouoke the enemies to come thether, that hee might fight with them, but they did not sti•…•…re, shewing thereby that they had no meaning to fight; The Artillery being brought before [ 30] Riuolta, the Fort within a few houres was taken by assault, wherein the King with his whole armie lodged the same night.

The King wondering at the enemies proceedings, the which to himselfe he ne∣uerthelesse* 1.70 commended, resolued to depart thence, & to come into a place where he might cut off their victuals which came to them from Cremona and Crema, thinking that the want of victuals would breake their determination: wherefore hauing staid one day at Riuolta he dislodged and burnt it, and tooke the way of Vailla and Paudina, the very next night, because that either of these places were in the way by which victuals came to the enemy.

The Venetians did very well perceiue the Kings meaning, and how they were [ 40] of necessity to remooue: but the Count Petillan would haue them to tarry till the next day, and Aluiana would haue them instantly to depart▪ to the end to preuent them; the which was done. There were two waies to go to the places aboue men∣tioned, the one lower, & farther neer to the riuer, with crooked turnings, by which* 1.71 the kings armie marched, which was said to consist of more then two thousand lances, six thousand Swisses, and twelue thousand foot, as well French as Italians, with great store of Artillery, and Pioners: the other farther off from the riuer, and* 1.72 the shorter way, the which led directly for the passage of the Venetiā army, wher∣in were 2000. men at armes, more then 20000. foot, and great numbers of light horse, some Italians, and some Albaneses: there beeing nothing betwixt the two [ 50] armies but bushes & shrubs, which hindred either army from seeing one another.

The two armies marching in this manner, the French vantgard conducted by Charles of Amboise, & the Venetians rereward conducted by Aluiana, encountred one another. Aluiana not thinking to fight that day, did not march in good order.

But perceiuing himselfe to bee so neere the enemy, and in such a place as hee was enforced to fight, aduertised the Count Petillan, who went with the Vantgard, of his necessity, crauing his ayde. The Earle sent him word to march on still and to eschew the fight, according to the Senates determination. Aluiana in the meane time placed his footmen with sixe peeces of Ordinance on a little rising: and then assailed the enemies with such force and fury, as hee enforced them to giue back: but the Armies battaile, wherein the Kings person was, comming forward:* 1.73 the chance of the Dice soone turned, albeit Aluiana for his luckie beginning had promised to him-selfe the victory: who running vp and downe, now heere, now there, encouraged his soldiers: They fought on all sides with great fury. The [ 10] French were on fire by their Kings presence, who not sparing himselfe, was expo∣sed to all dangers, and did not cease where need was to command and encourage his souldiors. The Venetians on the other side full of valour, by reason of their first good successe, did fight brauely: But at the last, after long fight, and the Vene∣tians loosing rather their strength then their courage, not turning their backs to* 1.74 the enemies, they fell downe in a manner all dead vppon the place, and chiefly the footemen, some of whom affirmed that there were eight thousand of them slaine there. Barthelmew Aluiana was taken prisoner, who beeing hurt in the eye, with his face all bloudy, was brought to the Kings Pauillion.

Such end had the battaile of Gyradade, which was fought on the fourteenth [ 20] of May, in the yeere 1509. The King in memory heereof caused a chappell to bee builded on the place of battaile, which hee called Saint Maries of the Victory: then because hee would not loose his opportunity, hee came to* 1.75 Carauagia, which yeelded vpon composition, and foure and twenty-houres af∣ter, the Castle, on no condition, hauing beene beaten with the Artillery. Bergamo did the like the next day, and the Castle a day after. From thence hee marched towards Bressia, which by the councell of the Gambares, did cast off the Ve∣netian yoake, and yeelded to the King; and the Castle two dayes after did the like, on condition that all that were within it might depart, (the Venetian Gen∣tlemen* 1.76 excepted) because the King would not haue them comprized in the com∣position [ 30] of townes, not for hatred that he did beare to them, but in hope to draw great summes of money from them.

The newes of the battailes losse, and of the kings progression after that, did af∣flict* 1.77 Venice with such griefe and vniuersall feare, as it is scarce credible, so great it was. For from all parts of the citty, people ranne to the publick Pallace with great cryes and pittifull lamentations, where the Senators knew not on what to resolue, their Councell beeing dulled by dispaire; so weake were their remedies. At the last taking courage, they determined to vse meanes to bee reconciled in any sort whatsoeuer with the Emperor and the Catholick King, not mentio∣ning the French King, because they did as much distrust his hatred, as they were [ 40] fearefull of his Armes.

The Senate then did write to Dominico Grimani, and to Marco Cornare, sonne to the Prouidator, both of them beeing Cardinalls at Rome, to promise and* 1.78 offer to the Pope, in the Senates name, that the Citties which hee demanded in Romagnia should bee yeelded vnto him, by meanes whereof they besought him not to abandon the common-wealth to the pleasure and dispose of barbarous people, such as the French-men were, who if they should once become mai∣sters of all Lombardy, the Popes them-selues should not bee safe in Rome.

They likewise decreed, that Antonio Iustiniano (who being chosen Prouidator for* 1.79 Cremona, was ready to go thither) should directly go to the Emperor Maximilli∣an, [ 50] & conclude a peace with him, if it were possible on any terms whatsoeuer. That the Senate was ready to deliuer to him Thryeste, Portonoue, and the other lands which they had taken from him the yeare before, and that the Signory would ac∣knowledge to hold of him whatsoeuer it possessed in Frioul, in Lombardy, and in

the country called old Venice. So weake and vncertaine were their remedies, as if one of these two did not helpe to repulse the audatiousnesse of the French, they had not any sure meanes left to stay them.

Neuerthelesse, makeing a vertue of necessity, they consulted for their defence how to prouide mony to wage new companies, for those which remaind aliue after the defeate were bereft of strength and courage. They determined like∣wise to augment their army by sea, whereof Andre Treuisan was Generall with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Gallies to oppose against that of the enemies which was preparing at Ge∣noa. But the French Kings sodaine speed did preuent al their Councells, vnto whom, since the reduction of Bressia, Cremona was yeelded (the Castle expected [ 10] * 1.80 which the Venetians yet held). Pisquetona did the like: then hee marched to∣wards Piscara to take the Castle, for the towne was yeelded: And as they began to batter it, the Swisses and Gascons made a furious entry by small ouctru•…•…es in the walls, and slew all those that were within it, except the Captaine and his sonne who were Venetian Gentlemen, who were both by the Kings commandement hanged on the Castles battlements, to the end by that example to moue those of the Castle of Cremona, not obstynately to make defence, nor to hold out till the very last.

The King in this manner, in lesse then fifteene dayes after the victory, had re∣couered [ 20] (the Castle of Cremona excepted) all that which did belong to him, according to the diuision which had beene made at Cambray. The Pope had enuaded the Citties of Romagnia, with foure hundred men at armes, foure hun∣dred light horse, and eight thousand foote-men, and with the Duke of Ferrara his ordnance, vnder the command of Francisco Maria de la Rouera his Nephew, Sonne to his brother Iohn, who with that army scoured from Cesenna to Ceruia, then tooke the towne of Sauarolla, betwixt Imola and Faenza, and that of Bre siquella with the Castle, and all the other townes of the Faentyne territory.* 1.81

The Burrow of Russi, strong both by nature and art, after the Kings victory did yeeld to the Pope on composition, the like did the Citty of Faenza, which being [ 30] vnfurnished of Venetian soldiars, and at her owne command, did promise to ac∣knowledge the Pope for her Lord, if it were not releeued within fifteene daies, which was not done. Rauenna did the like, so soone as the army of the Church drew neare (the Castle excepted.) In such sort as the Pope conquered more by the fame of the French Kings victory, then by his owne army, the Vene∣tians possessing no more in Romagnia but the Castle of Rauenna, new enemies shewing them-selues dayly against them, euer since the defeate of their army.* 1.82

The Duke of Ferrara on a sodayne shewed him-selfe, who till then had abstai∣ned, and hauing expelled the Visdoma from Ferrara (a magistrate which the Ve∣netians kept there) hee did forcibly without any let at all recouer the Pollesin of Rouigo. The townes of Azole and Lunate yeelded to the Marquis of Mantua, which the Venetians had in former time taken from Iohn Francisco Gonzaga his great Grand-father. Christofero Frangipane held Pisinia and Diuinia in Histria. The Duke of Brunswic with his forces, ent•…•…ing Friull by the Emperors com∣mand, tooke Feltre and Bellone Thryeste likewise and the other townes vpon his arriuall did returne to the Emperors obedience. The Earles of Sodron seazed on certaine Castles and Villages which lay neere them: the like did the Bishop of Trent who tooke Riua di Trente, and Agresta.* 1.83

The Venetians being brought to all extremity determined to quit the Signo∣ry [ 50] of the firme land, to the end to auoide so many enemies, hoping that good fortune one day returning, they might easily recouer it. Beeing contented then onely to retaine the salt waters, all their care was to fortyfie their Citty with men, victualls, and munition, and they sent Mandates

to the Magistrates and Officers of Padua, Verona, and other Citties allotted to Maximillian, that they should sodenly depart thence, leauing them to the power of the people.

During these atchiuements, Antonio Iustinian who had beene sent to the Em∣peror, beeing admitted to his presence in publike audience, did speake with very great submission, but it was in vaine, for hee would doe nothing without the French King. The Venetian Cardinalls likewise, who besought the Pope to ab∣solue* 1.84 solue the Monitorie, seeing they had offered to make restitution of the townes within the space of foure and twenty dayes, could obteine nothing: For the Pope answered, That they had not obeyed, because they did offer it with limited [ 10] conditions, not mentioning the profits which they had receiued by them. The Senate sent likewise into Puglia to yeeld vp the hauens to the King of Arragon, who being certaine to obtaine them with ease, had sent a small fleete from Spain, the which had already taken possession of diuerse places belonging to those Cit∣ties, and Sea hauens.

In this manner were the affaires of the Venetian common-wealth throwne head-long downe all hopes failing them. Those of Verona would yeeld to the King, seeing the Venetians had forsaken them, but hee would not receiue them, meaning faithfully and wholy to obserue the capitulations made with the Empe∣ror, seeing hee had conquered all that which did belong to himselfe, and he com∣manded [ 20] the Ambassadors of the Veronois to present the Keyes of their Cittie to the Emperours Ambassadors, who were in his Army, the like did they of Padua and Vincenza.

This determination of the French King, not to passe with his Atmie beyond his limits, gaue some beginning of hope and safety to the Venetians, concerning whom the mindes of all Italians were diuersly mooued: Some were highly pleased* 1.85 with their misery & calamity, and said, That with great ambition they had sought to subiect all Italy to themselues, by meanes whereof they had made their name very odious. Others considering more iudiciously, how vnseemly a thing it would be for all Italy to be brought vnder the bondage of strangers, did infinitely la∣ment [ 30] the disaster of that Citty, the antient seat of liberty, and which more then any other had vpheld the common glory and renowne of all Italy.

This compassion began to touch the Popes heart, who fearing the power of* 1.86 the Emperor and the French Kinge desired to diuert their thoughtes from any more oppressinge it by intangling them in affaires. Therfore he resolued (but se∣cretly) to hinder as much as hee could, that the miseries of that Signory should goe on no farther, and did willingly receiue the letters with Denis Loredan wrote vnto him, requesting that it might please him, to receiue sixe Ambassadors which the Signory would send vnto him of the principall Senators, most humbly to entreare him to pardon and absolue them. The letters were read in open consi∣story, [ 40] where their petition beeing propounded, the Pope consented to admit them, notwithstanding that the Ambassadors of the Emperour, and the French King sought to hinder it, alledging that by the league of Cambray, he was bound to pursue them with spirituall and temporall Armes, vntill that each of the con∣federates had recouered that which did belong to him, and that the Emperour had not yet recouered all. Hee answered them, That the ancient custome of the Church was not to shew it selfe obdurate to those, who repenting of their faults did craue pardon, but that hee would not absolue them, before they had giuen satisfaction to euery one.

This reception of the Pope did encrease their hope, with the newes they [ 50] * 1.87 heard from Treuiso, which beeing forsaken by the magistrates, and by the Vene∣tian companies, as others were, Leonardo of Dressina banished from Vincenza, beeing come thither without forces to take possession thereof for the Emperor, they in the city mutined, and began with a generall voyce to cry S. Marke: pro∣testing

that they would acknowledge none other Lord, and a fellow that was a shomaker named Marke beeing their leader, he carried with great shoutes and concourse of people the Venetians banners into the market place, and hauing driuen thence Dressina, they placed souldiers in their City, and speedily fortified it with victuals, and all other necessaries, the hors-men which were within it scouring the country round about.

The end of the seuenth Booke of the fourth Decade.

[ 10] [ 20]

The Contents of the eight Booke of the fourth Decade.

WHat mooued the Venetians to hope to raise them selues. An enteruiew resolued on betwixt the Emperour Maximillian. and Lewis the French King broken on a sodaine by the Em∣peror. The Venetians recouer Padua, whereby they become masters of the Champaine Country. The Marquis of Mantua is taken by the Venetians. The Emperors proposition to goe and beseege the City of Venice. Frangipane maketh warre in Histria. The Venetian Ambassadours come to Rome by night. The Emperors seege before Padua. The King of Hun∣gary [ 40] refuseth to make warre on the Venetians during their aduersity. The Ve∣netians recouer Vincenza and beseege Verona. The Venetians nauall army on the Po, scoureth as farre as Fiquerolla. The Venetians conquer the Pollesin of Rouigo. The Duke of Ferrara defeateth the Venetians nauall army on the Po. The Emperor holdeth a Dyet at Inspruch. The Pope absolueth the Venetians, notwithstanding the oppositions of the Ambassadors of the Emperour and the French King. The Popes displeasure against the French King. The French Kings greeuous displeasure conceiued against the Swisses. The Pope in ha∣tred [ 50] to the French King Assaileth Ferrara. The Vincentines are enforced to craue pardon of the Prince of Anhalt. The French take Legnaga. The Empe∣ror engageth Verona to the French King. Monselesia taken by the French. The

Popes deseignes and propositions against the French King broken and come to nothing. The King of Hungary summons the Venetians Ambassador. Lastly the French King resolueth to make warre on the Venetians and the Pope.

[ 10]

The eighth Booke of the fourth Decade of the Historie of Uenice.

THe Commotion of Treuiso and the Emperors carelesnesse* 1.88 gaue hope to the Venetians to retaine some part of their [ 20] Signory, and to execute diuers great exploits, which after∣ward they did. For in all this great course of victories there was nothing heard of but the Emperors name only, albeit by meanes of the French army, and for feare of it, diuers townes had beene yeelded to him. He had runne to diuers places since the confederacy of Cambray to get money by way of loane of the Flemmings and other his subiects, the which hee quickly spent prodigally after his vsuall manner, beside a hundred thousand crownes which he had receiued of the French King, for the inuestiture of the Dutchy of Milan. Forthwith after the newes of the battaile of Gyradade, he sent the Duke of [ 30] Brunswick to recouer the Country of Friul, but for himselfe he did not mooue at all, for want of money, al-be-it the Pope did greatly solicite him therevnto, being afraid of the French forces, and to cause him to make hast, had sent him fifty thou∣sand Duca•…•…s.

At the last hee came to Trent, from whence by letters hee thanked the French* 1.89 King, for hauing by his meanes recouered his due. The Cardinall of Amboise beeing come thither from the King to talke with him, they concluded betwixt themselues that he and the King should see one an other and talke together in o∣pen field, neere to the towne of La Garde, on the marches of eithers Countrey. The King set forward to be there at the day appointed. But the Emperor being [ 40] come as farre as Riua di Trente for the same purpose, hauing tar•…•…ied there two houres, returned on a sodaine to Trent, sending the King word that, by reason of* 1.90 certaine accidents newly hapned in Friul, he was enforced to returne backe a∣gaine, requesting him to defe•…•…re their meeting till an other time, and in the meane space to tarry at Cremona.

This alteration of the Emperour, together with his tedious negligence in not prouiding sufficient garrisons to defend Padua and the other Cities, were causes, that the Venetians did help themselues by this opportunity offered them to re∣couer Padua, which they knew to be badly man'd with souldiers, and the which they had by ouer-hasty counsell too soone giuen away. They concluded then [ 50] that Andrew Gritti, one of the Prouidators, should goe to Nouale on the Paduan territory, and that there he should take part of the footmen (who being followed by diuers of the Country were sent to the village of Mirana) and should march towards Padua, to assault the Gate of Codalonga, and Christofero de Mora the o∣ther

Prouidator, should follow him at the heeles with the residue of the army: This deseigne being thus decreed fell out better then they thought for: for being early in a morning come to the Gate, they found it halfe open, by reason of cer∣taine carts laden with hay, which were a little before entred. So as possessing it without any difficulty, they tarried there without any noise till their fellowes were arriued who were not farre of, then they marched to the market-place, before any one had descried them.

But Dressina, who was Gouernor of the City for Maximillian being lodged in the Cittadell, hauing heard the noise, came forth with three hundred Lanceque∣nets which he had only for the gard thereof, with Brunaldo of Saregia with fif∣ty [ 10] * 1.91 horse, who perceiuing the townsmen to forsake them, and no man to offer them any helpe made great hast to enter into their fort, the which being not well fortified they were constrained to yeeld certaine houres after. The Venetians by this meanes being masters of the City, commanded no hurt to be done to it, and that the Iewes houses only, with certaine Paduans who had shewed themselues their enemies, should be spoiled.

The French King, who not long before had by composition taken the Castle* 1.92 of Cremona, knowing the Emperours answere, and not staying to doe his bid∣ding, went towards Milan, resoluing to cassier his army, for to free himselfe from so great expenses and to returne into France. But the departure of the Kings [ 20] person and his army did much diminish the reputation of the Emperors affaires. For after the Venetians had recouered Padua, they soone became masters of all the Countrey round about, because the Cities and the champaine countrey did* 1.93 fauour them. Vincenza of it selfe had done the like, if Constantine of Macedonia, who by chance was not farre off, had not speedily entred it with certaine forces. They recouered neuerthelesse the towne and castle of Legnaga, a very commo∣dious place to indomage the countries of Verona, Padua, and Vincenza.

It was supposed that the taking of Padua would delay the Kings returne into France: but that, notwithstanding, he determined to passe forward so soone as* 1.94 hee had made new agreements with the Popes Legat in the City of Biagrassa [ 30] whereby the Pope and the King did bind themselues to protect each other. He left on the frontiers of the Veronois the Lord de la Palisse with seuen hundred Launces, to doe whatsoeuer should please the Emperor. But before his depar∣ture* 1.95 an other happy euent befell the Venetians, which was, the taking of the Mar∣quis of Mantua, with the defeat of all his souldiers, who were surprized halfe a sleepe in the Island of Escalla: who being brought from thence to Padua, and then to Venice, was imprisoned in the little tower of the publike pallace to the great contentment and wonderfull ioy of the whole City.

The Emperour till now had not hindred nor did hinder the Venetians proceed∣ings, as well because he had not suffi•…•…ient forces, as also for that he was kept backe [ 40] by the peasants in the mountaine, and in the planes likewise by other companies of peasants, who waited for him at a very strong passage, where he was in danger. But surmounting all these difficulties, and hauing not as yet forces strong enough, he busied himself in meane enterprises, beseeging now one village, and then an o∣ther, scouring and spoyling the country. The Prince of Anhalt did the like, who by the Emperours command hauing entred Friul with ten thousand men attemp∣ted* 1.96 in vaine to take Monfalcone, but he gaue a furious assault on the towne and castle of Cadora where he committed great slaughter on those that were with∣in it.

The Venetians in the meane time tooke the towne of Valdesera by force, and [ 50] * 1.97 Bellona by composition. The Emperour perceiuing that his forces were not worthy the name of Imperiall, propounded to the confederates the vniting of all their forces in one to assaile the city of Venice, and to that intent to vse the helpe of the sea armies and Galleis of the French King and the Pope. The French King

would willingly haue consented therevnto if he had seene any likelihood of the matter. But the Pope and the Catholike King gainesaid it, as a thing most vniust and dishonorable. The Duke of Brunswicke on the other side being sent by the Emperor could not take Vdina the Capitall city of Friul nor Ciuital-D'Austria, which he likewise beseeged. Christoforo Frangipane did the like in Histria where* 1.98 nere to the village of Verme he defeated the Venetian officers, and did greatly burne and spoile the whole country.

During these temporall accidents of armes in diuers places, they disputed at Rome on spirituall armes, whither before the recouery of Padua the sixe Ambas∣sadors from the Senate were arriued; namely Dominico Treuisan, Leonardo Mo∣ceniga, [ 10] Paulo Pisani, Ieronimo Donato▪ Paulo Capello, and Lodouico Maripietro: who* 1.99 entring by night in poore and wretched habite, because the Pope would haue it so, who did not see them, they went to the pallace of the Cardinall of Naples to conferre with him and the other Commissioners: Great were the practises of the Ambassadors of the Emperour, French King, and the King of Spaine to hinder them from obtayning absolution: and on the contrary the Archbishop of Yorke solicited for them in the behalfe of Henry King of England.

The Emperor in the meane time hauing assembled all the forces he was able to* 1.100 make, as well of his owne as of others that assisted him, determined with a mighty army to goe and beseege Padua. [ 20]

The Venetians weighing how much the preseruation of that city did import them did not forget to furnish it with all necessaries for defence. Wherevnto Prince Loredan did greatly incite them in an Oration full of mighty perswasions by whose counsell two hundred young Gentlemen departed from Venice to goe to the releefe of that city, where they were receiued with incredible ioy of al men. They receiued letters at Venice at the same time from Andre Foscole Ambassador at Constantinople for the Common-wealth neere to the great Turke: whereby he assured the Senate that the Turke was mightily dipleased when he vnderstood of the defeate of their army at Gyradade and for that they had not acquainted* 1.101 him with their enterprizes and requested his aide, and that now he freely offered [ 30] them all aide and fauour, it being his pleasure that Prince Loredan should bee speedily aduertized of this offer. The Senate by their Ambassador did highly thanke him, but would not accept the offer, because it was neither seemely nor proffitable.

But to returne to the Emperours preparations, who whilest he tarried for for∣ces* 1.102 which came to him from all parts, he came to the bridge of Brente three miles of from Padua where hauing taken Rimini by force, and turned aside the current of the water, he marched towards the Pollesin of Rouigo keeping aloofe off from Padua to open the passage to his victuals, staying for his Artillery which was to come forth of Germany, and tooke the village of Este by assault which he [ 40] sack't, and next he tooke Monselecia & the castle, with the town of Montagnane by composition. From thence returning towards Padua, he encamped nere to the bridge of Bassonella nere to the city, where he attempted, but in vaine, to turne backe the course of the Riuer Brento.

To this place came the artillery and the munition which he expected, with the* 1.103 residue of his army, wherewith he went forward and encamped nere to the Sub∣urbes of Saint Crosse, determining to giue an assault in that place: but when he vnderstood that it was the strongest part of the city, he changed his purpose, and remooued towards the little Gate on the way to Venice, as well for that it was the weakest part of the city as also to cut off supplies that might come thither by [ 50] land or water: wherein hauing spent much time vnproffitably and giuen leisure to the enemies to fortifie and furnish themselues with victuals, He approched neere to the wals with his army, which besides the French Kings seuen hundred Launces, vnder the command of the Lord de la Palisse, consisted of one thousand

Italian men at armes, eighteene thousand Lansquenets, sixe thousand Spaniards,* 1.104 six thousand boot-halers of sundry nations, & two thousand Italian•…•…. After these followed a great traine of all sorts of peeces of battery, with wonderfull store of munition: so as neuer any seege in Italy was of the like expectation as well for the importance of the place, whereon depended the good or bad successe of the Venetians, as in regard of the greatnesse and authority of such a leader, which caused the number of the army daily to encrease, al-be-it the souldiers were not paied, who fed themselues neuerthelesse with hope of the Cities spoile. On the o∣ther side the army which the Venetians had in Padua for the defence thereof, was* 1.105 little inferior, to the Emperors. For there were sixe hundred men at armes, fif∣teene [ 10] hundred light horse, fifteene hundred famous and well experienced Stradi∣ots: and besides the Cauallery, there was twelue thousand footmen of the best souldiers of Italy, and tenne thousand other footmen, as well Sclauonians, as Greeks, and Albanezes drawne from their Galleis, and besides all these, all the Venetian young Gallants were there with their followers, whose example did much encourage the rest. Moreouer it did not want great aboundance of all ne∣cessary prouisions, nor great store of artillery, with a merueilous quantity of all kinde of victuals, and a multitude almost numberlesse of peasants, who without intermission laboured in the Cities fortifications: so as within a short space, it was fortified with bastions, ram piers, casemates, parapets, and necessary trenches. [ 20] And to the end that the courage of al those within it might be answerable to those* 1.106 preparations, the Count Petillan, who was General, caused them all to be assemb∣led in Saint Anthonies market-place, where hauing encouraged them by graue & valorous speeches, he first bound himselfe by sollemne oth, and then the captaines; the whole army and the townesmen in like manner, faithfully to employ them∣selues in the defence thereof euen to the death.

In the meane time, the Pope, the Emperor, and the French King, did earnestly* 1.107 solicite the King of Hungary to make warre on the Venetians, telling him how easily he might recouer all the lands which they held in Histria and Selauonia, now when as they had in a manner lost all their forces, and were assailed on e∣uery [ 30] side. But the King of Hungary would neuer giue eare therevnto, but con∣tinued still their friend. Whereof the Senate being aduertized by Vincentio Gui∣docho their Secretary and Agent in Hungary: sent Petro Pascalio their Ambassa∣dors to the same King, to entreate him to continue in the alliance which he had sworne of a long time with them, the which he promised to doe.

Now the Emperor hauing made his approches neere to the wals of Padua, to∣wards the little Gate, where his army was extended round about the city three miles in length, he beganne to plant his peeces of battery, which could not be done in a long time, by reason of the number of them, some of them being of a merueilous greatnesse. Being planted, they would needs see how the enemies [ 40] could defend themselues, and therefore the French and the Lansequenets gaue* 1.108 an assault on that side where the Lord de la Palisse had command at a Rauelin of a Gate, but it being valliantly defended, they returned to their quarter. The next day the artillery plaied with great fury, and did beate downe a great part of the wall: the shot from the city likewise did greatly hurt the whole army and those within the town made many sallies, especially the Stradiots and the light-horse.

The artillery hauing plaied nine daies together, and made so large a breach as all men thought was more then needfull, the whole army made preparation the next day to giue an assault: But when they perceiued how that the same night they within had filled the dike with water, the Emperour sent backe his souldiers [ 50] to their quarters. They beganne afterwards to batter the Bastion which was neere to the Gate of Codalonga, the Emperor determining to doe his vttermost* 1.109 to force it, and hauing ouerthrowne a part thereof with the ordnance, he caused the Spaniards and Lansquenets two daies after to giue it an assault, who fighting

furiously did mount it, and placed two Enseignes thereon. But the valour of the* 1.110 defendants was such, and the aboundance of defensiue engines so great, as they were enforced to leape downe in heapes, & many of them were slaine and hurt: By meanes whereof those who were already prepared to giue an assault to the wal, thinking that the Bastion was taken, retired and disarmed themselues, without at∣tempting any farther

Maximillian by this attempt did wholy loose the hope of victory, wherefore* 1.111 resoluing to dislodge, hauing first sent away his artillery to a place of safety, he raised his campe, and came with his whole army to Limini the seuenteenth day of the seege, from thence he went to Verona, all men generally blaming him for [ 10] that by his owne fault he had lost Padua, and had not taken Treuiso. And he on the contrary imputing it to other men, complained of the Pope and the French King: of the one, for suffering the Venetian Ambassadors to goe to Rome, and of the other, because he had delaide to send supplies of men. But these complaints did no whit better his condition: for the Pope cared not great∣ly for him, and the King was glad to haue his faults and changings knowne. Ha∣uing receiued the oth of fidelity of those of Verona, he departed thence towards Germany, determining (as he said) to returne the next spring with greater for∣ces to make warre in Italy, leauing the Marquis of Brandenbourg for the gard of Verona. [ 20]

The Emperours returne into Germany left all that which he possessed in great* 1.112 hazard, and all Italy in doubt, in regard of some contention, arising betwixt the Pope and the French King, which being soone after appeased there remained neuerthelesse some discontent in the Popes minde, wherevpon he wished that* 1.113 the King might loose whatsoeuer he held in Italy, and was willing to imploy him∣selfe to effect it: And al-be-it he propounded so great a designe to himselfe, yet neuerthelesse he would not enter into league with any one, but trusting wholy to himselfe and to the authority which the Papall Sea had ouer all Princes, hee shewed both by deed and words that he did not greatly account of any one, and waxing strange to all others he enclined only to the Venetians side, whom for [ 30] the safety of all Italy, and for the preseruation of his greatnesse, he thought fit to absolue, and to assist with all his power.

The Emperors and French Kings Ambassadors opposed it, the like did the Am∣bassador for the King of Arragon, alleadging the confederacy made at Cambray, by which they were not yet fully satisfied. The Pope made answer therevnto,* 1.114 that it was not the office of Christs Vicar to pursue with spirituall armes, to the preiudice of the saluation of so many soules, those who repenting had with great humility craued absolution: espetially the cause for which they were censured ceassing. That it was an other matter to pursue them with temporall armes, and therein he was determined to perseuer, and made offer to consent with the rest [ 40] to obserue the league of Cambray. Being in these termes with the Ambassa∣dors, he would willingly haue absolued them, if the Venetians would haue giuen place and consented to two conditions. The one, to leaue the nauigation of the Adriatrick Sea free to the subiects of the Church; the other, that they should keepe no more a Magistrate called Visdomo in Ferrara, which was a City depend∣ing on the Church.

The Venetians in the meane time, vpon this different meaning of Princes,* 1.115 not greatly esteeming the Emperour, sent forces vnder the conduct of Andre Gritti the Prouidator to Vincenza, on assurance that they were wished for by the people, who at his arriuall tooke the suburbes of Posterla, then being brought [ 50] into the city by the townesmen, the Prince of Anhalt and Fracasso retired into the castle, which was yeelded foure daies after. It was verily thought that he might haue taken Verona likewise, if he had gone thither on a sodaine: but whi∣lest he tarried for the reduction of the castle of Vincenza, new companies of the

Emperors entred into it, and three hundred Launces of the French Kings, com∣manded by the Lord D' Aubigns, so, as there being in it fiue hundred Launces, and* 1.116 fiue thousand footmen as well Spaniards as Lansquenets, it was a hard matter to take it. The Venetian army neuerthelesse came thither soone after, vpon hope, that at their arriuall, they in the city would rise: but because it being diuided into two parts, did not shew it selfe before the wals at one time, the businesse fell not out according to their proiect.

The Venetians at their departure thence tooke Basciana, then Feltre and Ciui∣tall, with the fort of Escalla. At the same time Antonio and Ieronimo Sauorgnia∣ne, gentlemen of the country followinge the Venetians party in Friull, tooke [ 10] * 1.117 Castel-nouo beyond the riuer of Tailemont, no newes being heard of Maximil∣lian. The Venetian army for the recouery of the Pollesin of Rouigo, marched towards Monselecia and Montagnane, to the end from thence to enter on the territory of Ferrara. Hauing moreouer, sent their nauall army, conducted by Angelo Treuisano, to make warre on the Duke of Ferrara, which entring the Po at the mouth of Fornaces, burnt Corbolo and other villages neere to the Po, not sparing the whole country as farre as the Lake of Scarra, from whence the light horse which kept way with it by land scoured as farre as Fiquerolles.

The incredible hatred which they had conceiued against the Duke of Ferrara* 1.118 did mooue them to doe so, who not being content with that which he said did [ 20] belong vnto him, did detaine that which was none of his owne, hauing receiued of the Emperour for money the village of Este in Fee, and that of Montagnane by ingagement, he hauing no title to those places, which from time to time be∣longed to the Venetians.

The Duke of Ferrara was much amazed at the comming of this army, and at the report that their land-army followed it: for he had no meanes to defend him∣selfe, till the supplies which he expected from the Pope and the French King were arriued, but only with his artillery planted on the bankes of the Riuer to stop the enemies farther passage, which was the cause that Treuisan lay at Ankor in the middest of the Riuer behind a little Island, tarrying for the land forces, without [ 30] which he knew he could not goe forward: And to remaine there at more safety* 1.119 til their arriual, he caused two Bastions to bee made on the Riuer Po, the one on Ferraras side, and the other on the opposite shore with a bridge of boats, to the end he might be able to releeue the Bastions, chiefly that on Ferrara side.

The Duke determined to hinder the finishing of that worke, whereupon ha∣uing assembled the greatest forces he could, as wel of the City as of strangers, he sent them before to assaile the Bastion, and he himselfe followed after with store of horse.

But those of the Bastion being releeued by their owne fellowes out of the ves∣sels* 1.120 did with such fury charge the Ferrarois as they put them to rout, so as the [ 40] Duke, who followed them at the heeles with his cauallery, meeting with them, turned them backe and encouraged them, but it lasted not long. For the enemies fury was such, together with the safety of the place well fortified with small peeces of Ordnance, as at the last he himselfe was constrained to retire with great losse of his people, who were slaine and hurt. This mooued the Lord of Chaumont to send a hundred and fifty French Launces for the gard of Ferrara: and the Pope being incensed against the Venetians, for that without respect to him they had assailed the Duke, sent thither likewise the two hundred men at armes which hee had alotted for the Emperor.

But this aide would haue come to late, if the Venetians had not beene enfor∣ced [ 50] * 1.121 to call backe their army, the which hauing conquered all the Pollesin, was in readinesse to goe to the reliefe of their nauall army: for it was enforced to re∣turne backe, hauing left foure hundred light horse, and as many footmen for the defence of the Pollesin, and for the helpe of their vessels: because the Lord of

Chaumont hauing entred Verona with great forces, had lent eight thousand Ducats to the Emperour who had engaged to the King for the same sum, and for others to be paied afterward the towne of Valeggia, sixe miles from Bressia, and a passage of the Riuer Mincia of great importance: and made preparations be∣side (as it was said) to goe and beseege Vincenza.

The Venetians diuided their army into three parts which they placed in Leg∣naga, Suaua, and Vincenza: then being desirous to conserue Vincenza, they be∣ganne* 1.122 to fortifie it with strong rampiers, and with deepe ditches full of water, they like they did afterwards to Suaua and Legnaga; and in this manner stand∣ing on their guarde, they assured the whole country, especially for that win∣ter. [ 10] Ferrara by this meanes was in some sort eased, but not altogether freed from feare and daunger: For those in the vessels, seconded by the cauallery that was left with them, did daylie scoure euen to the Cittie Gates, and other Venetian vessels comming by an other way to assaile the Ferrarois, had ta∣ken Comachia. But by the arriuall of the Popes, and French Kings forces, the Duke and the Cardinall of Este beganne to take courage, and for to make di∣uerse attempts to draw the enemies to fight, they which they refused til the return of their army.

The Duke and the Cardinall perceiuing that the ouer-throw of the vessels would gaine the victory, and that it might easily be effected if meanes were made [ 20] for the safe planting of the artillery on the banke of the Riuer, the Cardinal came and assailed the Bastion once againe, and hauing beaten backe the enemies, who were come forth to skirmish, hee did take and fortifie the nerest part of the cau∣sey, vnknowne to the enemies: then in the night hee brought the artillery to the shoare opposite to the enemy and planting it with great silence, it began in the morning to discharge very furiously. The vessels would haue escaped by flight, but not being able to make way by reason of the shot, they were in a manner all sunke or taken. The General leaping into a Skiffe saued himselfe by flight with the* 1.123 chiefe standard of the common-wealth, fifteene Gallies fell into the Dukes pow∣er, certaine great ships, diuers Fusts, with other small boates, almost numberlesse, [ 30] two thousand men died there, as well by the shot as by fire and water, and three∣score banners were taken. Many that came on shoare were saued by the Vene∣tian light horse men.

The Duke after this defeate, sent forces of horse and foote to doe the like to* 1.124 those who had taken Comachia, who recouered Loretta which the Venetians had fortified, and they had defeated the army which was there if it had not retired to Bebies knowing the danger.

Such vnfortunate end had the seege of Ferrara which lasted about one month. Their affaires prospered better on the Paduan territorie: for the Em∣perour beeing on the Vincentin with foure thousand footmen, the Venetians, [ 40] by the aide of the country peasants, almost vnder his nose and before his face, tooke the Paces of Escalla, Cogola, and Basciana: whereof the Emperour com∣playning said, That the departure of the Lord of La Palisse had bred diuers disor∣ders:* 1.125 and therevpon hee went to Bolsane, and from thence to Inspruch to hold the Dyet which hee had appointed, and the Lord of Chaumont following his example retired to Milan, leauing strong garrisons in all places on the fron∣tiers, and especiallie in Verona, which the Emperour could not haue defended alone.

During this cessation of armes, Maximillian sought to take truce with* 1.126 the Venetians: the Bishop of Pescera the Popes Nuntio, practized it by [ 50] his Masters commandement; the Ambassadors were at Hospitaletto, a little aboue Escalla, and conferred with Iohn Cornare and Lodouico Mocenigo the Ve∣netian commissioners: But the Emperours excessiue demands brake off this

treaty without any conclusion, to the Popes great griefe, who wished that the Venetians might be freed from this warre, that he might ioyne them to himselfe against the French King, whom he more and more hated, thereby to lay foun∣dations of great importance, and to this purpose had secretly sent a meslenger to the King of England.

The Venetian army in the meane time beeing quartered at Saint Boniface on the Veronois, held Verona in a manner beseeged, al-be-it deeds of armes were coldly performed on either part, according to the season which was cold. The Princes mindes neuerthelesse were greatly troubled, aud especially the Empe∣rour, who inuenting all meanes to get the vpper-hand of the Venetians, drew his [ 10] affaires still out at length, and did publish an other Dyet at Ausbourg, where the Electors of the Empire hauing made instance to treate of peace with the Ve∣netians, before they mentioned any prouisions for the warre: he thought that the Bishop of Pescera the Popes Nuntio had solicited the matter, wherevpon hee sent him away.

And considering that the resolutions of Dyets were long & vncertaine, he re∣solued* 1.127 with himselfe to induce the French King to condescend to take Padua, Vin∣cenza and Treuiso with his owne forces, and to accept of a sufficient recompence for it. This offer being propounded in the Kings Counsell, was much debated on all sides, and the King almost consented by the councell of diuers, to accept [ 20] it, and to returne againe in person into Italy with a mighty at my: But vpon the difficulties which were made to the contrary, hee delayed the answere and resol∣ued aboue all things, to vse meanes to appease the Pope and to make him his friend if it were possible, at least-wise that hee should not bee his enemy: and for this purpose sent post to Rome Albert Count of Carpi, a man of excellent wit and iudgement, vnto whom were giuen very ample instructions, and commis∣sion likewise to diswade the Pope from absoluing the Venetians: but as hee arri∣ued, the Pope had already concluded and promised it: the Venetians hauing after long disputations for certaine monthes space consented to those conditions, whereon the difficulty lay: because they saw none other remedy for their safety, [ 30] but to be ioyned with him.

The Ceremonies of the absolution beeing ended, the Ambassadors returned* 1.128 to Venice, leauing at Rome, neere to the Pope, Ieronimo Donato a very learned man, one of their owne number, and very pleasing to his Holinesse, who did great good seruice to his countrey in matters which he afterwards treated with him. Maximillian and the French King were displeased for that the Pope* 1.129 had absolued the Venetians; the one because hee had not yet recouered his owne according to the treaty of Cambray, and the other because he desired for his owne particular profit that the Venetians might no more recouer themselues: But neither of them did in any sort perceiue the Popes meaning, especially the [ 40] French King whom the Pope fed with vaine hopes.

For after the absolution, contrary to Kings meaning, hee gaue leaue to the Feudataries and Tennants of the Church, to receiue the Venetians pay, and to Iohn Paul Baillon to bee Generall of their army in Count Petillans stead, who* 1.130 was newlie dead: Then hee vsed meanes to reconcile the Venetians with the Em∣perour, to the end that they three beeing ioyned together might make warre on the French King. But they could not agree, for the Emperour would ab∣solutely haue Verona for his share, and the Venetians stoutly craued it for themselues.

Moreouer, the Pope did secretly solicite the King of England to make warre [ 50] on the French King, putting him in minde of the antient quarrelles betwixt those two Kingdomes, and the faire occasion which offered it selfe with fortu∣nate successe.

He did besides continue his practizes begunne with the Swisses by means of the

Bishop of Syon whose authority was great amongst that Nation, which fell out in the end as hee desired.

For they growing proud that all men sought their friendship, the King soli∣citing them to renue the league which was almost expired, with great boldnesse and presumption they craued the augmentation of their pentions which were threescore thousand pounds a yeere, besides the secret pentions which were giuen to priuate persons: At which insolency the King being mooued, he reiected them* 1.131 with haughty speeches, making shew that he did not esteeme them, and flatly de∣nied to augment their pentions, hauing made alliance with the Valesians, and the Lords of the Grisons. [ 10]

The Pope being glad of this disunion, made new confederacy with them, and* 1.132 thought he had done much for the execution of that which he intended, and first of all he assailed the Duke of Ferrara, for spight that hauing receiued so many be∣nifits at his hands, he depended more on the French King then on him.

And he imperiously forbad him to cause any more salt to be made at Coma∣chia. Duke Alphonso complayning for that he went about to hinder him from receiuing the profit of his owne reuenues, would not obey this commandement, wherevpon he threatned him with greeuous censures if he did not desist, his thoughts and actions wholly tending to defend and raise the Venetians.

The Emperour and the French King, who desired nothing so much as their [ 20] downefall, beeing displeased with the Popes proceedings, did more strictly v∣nite themselues together, and resolued to assaile the Venetians that Summer with great forces, and summoned the Pope to ioyne with them according to the purport of the confederacy of Cambray; but he answered that he was no more tied to that confederacy, which was accomplished, it being Maximil∣lians fault that hee had not Treuiso, or recompence in money for it: In the meane time Verona had like to haue beene taken by the Venetian Garrison which lay at Saint Boniface, who beeing sent for by the townesmen, came by night neere to the Cittie, to scale the Castle of Saint Peter, but in set∣ting* 1.133 vppe their Ladders, which were to short, they were discouered, wherevp∣on [ 30] they returned to their Garrison, and diuers of the conspiracy in the city were punished.

About the same the Pope hauing notice that peace was newlie concluded betwixt the Kings of France and England, and perceiuing on the other side the brauado which Maximillian vsed in his behalfe, in demanding of him the loane of two hundred thousand Ducats, threating him if hee refused it to v∣nite himselfe with the French King against him, hee was desirous to reunite himselfe with the King, and beganne to deale with the Earle of Carpi who was still at Rome.

But on a sodaine hee changed his minde, so soone as hee had notice of the [ 40] small aide which the commissioners in the assembly of Ausbourg had offered the Emperour, and that the King of England had not made him such an an∣swere as hee expected: By meanes whereof taking courage, he beganne a new to assaile the Duke of Ferrara, because the said Duke had raised some new impositions on marchandize which was brought to Venice by the Riuer Po,* 1.134 saying, That by the law, the vassall could not do it without the leaue of the chiefe Lord, and that the same did preiudice those of Bolognia his subiects, threatning him, if he did not take away those imposts to make war vpon him.

The King heereby found himselfe greatly perplexed, for on the one side it greeued him to make warre on the Pope, and on the other hee would not for∣sake [ 50] * 1.135 his friend the Duke of Ferrara, beeing obliged to maintai•…•… and defend him: and the more the Pope did vrge him to forsake him, the more constant he was in his defence. After diuers reasons alleaged on either side, that the King had propounded conditions, whereby, for the most part, he should bee satisfied, for

those losses which hee should pretend to haue sustained by the Duke, hee was moreouer content to bee bound, (according to the Popes request made vnto him) that his army should not passe ouer the Riuer Po, vnlesse it were to protect the Florentines, and to molest Pandolpho Petrucci, and Iohn Paul Baillon.

During all these differences the Lord of Chaumont had taken without any* 1.136 impediment with fifteene hundred Launces, and tenne thousand footmen with great store of Ordnance, followed by three thousand Pioners, the Pollesin of Ro∣uigo which the Venetians had abandoned, and the tower Marquisana, the Duke of Ferrara beeing ioyned with him with two hundred men at armes, fiue hun∣dred [ 10] light horse and two thousand footmen. Then he came to Castelbaldo, and from thence to Montagnane and Este, which he tooke at the first summons, and gaue them to the Duke.

The Prince of Anhalt, the Emperours Lieutenant, came forth of Verona, with three hundred French Launces, two hundred men at armes, and three thousand Lansquenets, and following the Lord of Chaumont, they came both together towards the Vincentine territory, where the whole country did forthwith yeeld vnto them, the Venetian army being retired into a place of safety: by meanes whereof the Vincentines perceiuing themselues to be wholy forsaken, hauing of themselues no meanes of defence, had none other hope left but only in the vic∣tors [ 20] mercy the which they did hope to obtaine by the meanes of the Lord of Chaumont, of whom hauing gotten passe-port, they came to the Campe in wretched habit, where one of their number hauing with great humillity declared to the Prince of Anhalt the infinite and intollerable losses that they had susteined,* 1.137 and the misery and calamity whereto they were brought, to the end to mooue him to some compassion, and to appease his wrath, they receiued but a very vn∣pleasing and vngentle answere, which in effect was to haue their liues, goods and honours, at his owne discretion. The Vincentines being daunted with so cruell an answere, remained for a certaine space like men without any motion or feeling, and not knowing what to answere or thinke, they at last, by the Lord [ 30] of Chaumonts councell, fell downe prostrate on the earth, and did absolute∣ly* 1.138 referre themselues and their city into the conquerors hands. But the Lord of Chaumont making intercession for them, with diuers others, the matter was so handled as the Prince of Anhalt was content to promise them, that their per∣sons should haue no harme, but the disposing of their goods should be absolutely referred to his will and pleasure.

After the taking of Vincenza, al be-it the Emperour did in no sort stirre a∣gainst the Venetians, as hee had promised hee would, but on the contrary, his companies decreasing dayly for want of pay, the Lord of Chaumont neuerthelesse perceiuing that whatsoeuer had beene done till then, was to [ 40] * 1.139 no purpose, vnlesse Legnaga were taken, hee determined to goe and en∣campe before it, where hauing ouercome the difficulties of the waters, which the Venetians had in such sort let forth, as the whole country was drowned therewith, he wanne Porto, which is a part of Legnaga, and hauing caused foure thousand French foot, and sixe peeces of ordnance to crosse ouer to the farther side of the Riuer Adicé, hee beganne to batter the Bastion on both sides the Riuer, part whereof being beaten downe, the Prouidator who was with∣in it, al-be-it his souldiers did what they could to rampire it vp againe, being dan∣•…•…ed with feare, retired on a sodaine the night following into the castle with cer∣taine Venetian Gentlemen. [ 50]

This retreat beeing knowne by daie breake, the captaine of the foot∣men* 1.140 which were in the Bastion, did yeeld on condition of safetie of liues and goods. The Towne was forth-with sackt, and they who kept the other Bastion

fled thorow the Marshes: The castle yeelded soone after, on this condition, that the Venetian Gentlemen should remaine prisoners, and the souldiers should depart with white wands in their hands. There did the Lord of Chaumontre∣ceiue newes of the death of the Cardinall of Amboise his vncle, whereat the* 1.141 Pope made great shew of contentation, thinking that so long as he liued he shold euer haue an enemy: And so much he told the Venetian Ambassador, discoursing with him concerning other occurrents.

The Lord of Chaumont hauing left for the gard of Legnaga an hundred Launces with a thousand footmen, determined to returne into the Dutchy of Milan, according to the Kings command, but by the Emperours entreaty he [ 10] was countermanded till the month of Iune were ended, by which time the Em∣perour promised to come into Italy: and to the end his comming downe might* 1.142 bee more easie, the Almaines desiring to recouer Marostic, Ciuitella, Bascia∣na, and other places neere about, the Lord of Chaumont came and encam∣ped with his army at Longare, to keepe the Venetians troupes from entring into Vincenza, wher was a weak Garrison: but the Venetian army was retired to Padua.

The Almaines who were ioyned with the Lord of Chaumont went to Tor∣ricelles, then to Ciuitella, which soone yeelded; the like did Marostic, Basciana and other places not farre from thence, which were abandoned by the Venetians. From thence they marched towards Escalla which the Almaines did much de∣sire [ 20] to take, because it was a commodious passage for those companies which were to come forth of Germany, but they could not passe forward: for the pea∣sants wonderfully affecting the Venetians, had possessed diuers places in the mountaine: so that hauing taken Castel-noua by composition, which is likewise a passage in that mountaine, they returned to the Brente, where they had formerly beene quartered.

From thence the Prince of Anhalt did by an other way send diuers foot-com∣panies towards Escalla, who passing by Feltre did spoile and burne it: then being come to the place of Escalla, they found it wholly abandoned, and Couola like∣wise. The Country of Friul was no lesse ruined and assaulted on euery side, now [ 30] by the Venetians, and then by the Almaines, now defended by some, then spoi∣led by others: There was nothing to be seene euery where, but dead bodies, and burnt and sackt places. The time drawing neere that the French army was to depart, the Emperour and the French King made new couenants together, That the army should remaine there the next whole moneth following, and that the King should lend him fiftie thousand crownes, to defray extraordina∣rie expences, and for the payment of the foote-men that moneth, and the* 1.143 King should receiue in pawne Verona, with her whole territory, as well for these fiftie thousand crownes, as for the other fifty thousand which had beene lent him before. [ 40]

In regard of this agreement, the King sent to command the Lord of Chau∣mont to remaine there, who soone resolued to assaile Monselesia, to pluck forth that thorne from his foote, for which he made preparation so soone as foure hundred Spanish Launces were arriued, sent by the Catholike King to the Em∣perours aide. Hauing then together crossed the Riuer Brente, and that of Baquil∣lon at the village of Purle, they came to Monselesia, which is a towne seated on the plaine at the foote of the hill which is very high, on the toppe whereof is a castle; and on the backe thereof, which as it goeth on waxeth more narrow, there are three enclosures of walles: The towne was on a sodaine abandoned, and the French men being quartered in it beganne to batter the first wall, where∣in [ 50] hauing made a reasonable breach in diuers places, the French and Spaniards being come to the assault, those within it after a slight defence beganne to re∣tire in such disorder, as the French and Spaniards hauing already entred the

first wall, did in skirmishing enter pell-mell with them, into the other two, and* 1.144 then euen to the Castle, where the most part of them being slaine, the others re∣tired into the Dongeon, where yeelding vpon discretion they were massacred by the Almans, who hauing not men to keepe that place, did race the Castle and burne the Towne.

This exploit being executed, the armies retired, albeit the Almains did incite the Lord of Chaumont to goe and beseege Treuiso, but he answered them, that if the Emperor had come against the Venetians, with his promised forces, it had beene an easie matter to haue done it, but that those who were ioyned with him, were brought to a small number, and not sufficient for such an enterprise, seeing [ 10] that within Treuiso, there were store of souldiors, and besides, the Venetians had greatly fortified it, and last of all, that there was no more victualls to be found, in the country.

During these exploits, a new commandement came to the Lord of* 1.145 Chaumont, from France, to retire speedily with his army, into the Dutchy of Mi∣lan, leauing foure hundred Lances, and fifteene hundred Spanish foote-men, paid by the King to accompany the Almains, the which hee did, vnder command of the Lord of Perfi, and him-selfe speedily marched whether hee was sent for: For the Pope would neuer haue absolued the Venetians from the censures, nor prac∣tized the Swisses alliance, but onely to bring to passe, that which he had determi∣ned [ 20] in his minde, not onely to reintegrate diuers states to the Church, which hee sayd did belong vnto it, but like-wise to driue the French King forth of Italy; who not desiring to make warre on the Church, and wishing by all meanes to auoid the hatred thereof, did agree to make new conuentions with him. But the more* 1.146 that the King drew neere to the Popes demandes, the farther of was the Pope from comming to any agreement, and seemed to bee displeased with nothing, but for that the King had taken the Duke of Ferrara into his protection, whome hee extreamely hated: where-vpon the King propounded diuers Articles to giue him content, but hee would not accept of any one. At the last he craued that he would absolutely quit the Dukes protection. The King replying, That in [ 30] so doing he should incurre great dishonor, he answered, That seing the King refu∣sed it, he would neither bee his friend, nor his enemy.

These were the outward behauiors of the Pope, but hee beganne secretly to treat of greater matters then against the Duke of Ferrara, seeing that hee had the Swisses on his side, and that the Venetians were on foote againe, and also be∣cause* 1.147 the King of Arragon was not sincerely conioyned with the French King; That the Emperors forces were weake, and for that hee was not out of hope to cause the King of England to stirre. The Pope then working very secretly, would haue Genoa to bee beseeged at one time, by sea and land; that twelue thousand Swisses should come downe into the Dutchy of Milan; that the Ve∣netians [ 40] with all their forces should come into the field, to recouer the Citties held by the Emperor; and that his owne army should enter the Ferrarois, mea∣ning afterward to cause it to march into the Dutchy of Milan, vpon the good successe of the Swisses enterprise.

In the meane time hee caused it cunningly to bee giuen forth, that the Swis∣ses preparations and his owne, were but onely to assaile Ferrara on the sodaine.* 1.148 But the comming of Lodouico Fiesca to Genoa, for the King, with eight hundred men of the country, did assure the Citty, and brake all the Popes deseignes, with those of the Bandetti. On the other side the Popes army had entred Romag∣nia, vnder the command of the Duke of Vrbin, who hauing taken the townes of [ 50] Lugo, Bagnacauallo, and diuers other places on the hither side the Po, did en∣campe before the Castle of Lugo: but beeing aduertised that the Duke of Fer∣rara was comming thither with great forces, he on a sodaine raised his seege and

retired to Imola, leauing beehind them three peeces of ordnance for a prey to the enemy.

Alphonso then recouered all that which had bin taken from him in Romagnia, but he did not long hold it: for the Popes army being increased, it recouered with ease, the aboue named place, and the Castle of Lugo likewise, and soone after the* 1.149 Citty of Modena, for which Duke Alphonso could not prouide: but the losse of the same towne was the cause, that hee speedily prouided for Regio, fearing the like mishap as had fortuned to Modena.

The Swisses on the other side, (the confederacy betwixt the French King, and them being expired, certaine Monthes before,) beeing vexed that the King had [ 10] denied their demands, had determined in an assembly held at Lucerna to rise a∣gainst him. The Lord of Chaumont hauing notice of their determination, and being vncertaine which way they would enter, placed strong Gardes on Coma's side, tooke all boates forth of the lake, he brought victualls into strong places, and tooke away the Mil-stones from Mills. Besides, fearing least by Saint Bernards Mount, they might passe into Piedmont, hee had procured the Duke of Sauoy to deny them passage, and by the same Dukes consent, hee sent fiue hundred Lances to Yuree for that purpose. The Swisses being animated (as hath beene said) against the King, and paid by the Pope, sixe thousand of them without Ar∣tillery came by the way of Bellinsona, and hauing taken the bridge of Trese, [ 20] which was forsaken by sixe hundred French foote-men, they came and en∣camped at Varesa, waiting for (as they said) the Bishop of Syon, with new* 1.150 companies.

The Swisses comming did greatly trouble the French, because a great part of their forces was distributed for the gard of the strong towne of the Dutchy, and an other part thereof was ioyned with the Almains army against the Venetians: Yet neuerthelesse, the Lord of Chaumont hauing assembled, all the power hee could, came with fiue hundred Lances, and foure thousand foot-men into the plaine of Chastillon two Miles from Varesa. Foure thousand Swisses more came, and ioyned in that place with the former six thousand, and all of them together [ 30] sent to the Lord of Chaumont, to demand passage, saying that they were going for the Churches seruice, but it being refused them the fourth day after their arriuall, they all marched towards Chastillon, and in their march they Valliantly defended them▪selues against the French army, who was still at their side, and skir∣mished with them in front, and in flanke, and they answered them in like manner, no disorder being seene among them.

After they had in this manner passed along, into diuors places, the Lord of* 1.151 Chaumont still attending on them, they came at last to the bridge of Trese, and from thence in troopes retired home into their country, being brought to the extremity of hunger, and want of mony, which inforced them to retire. If the [ 40] Popes deseigne had taken effect, which was to haue assailed the French, in diuers and sundry places at once, their affaires would haue succeeded badly, but the en∣terprise of Genoa, was long before the Swisses comming.

The Venetians also tarried longer, then they thought to haue done, who com∣ming from Padua, recouered without any difficulty, Este, Monselesia, Montagna∣na,* 1.152 Marostia, and Basciana, and passing forward, they entred the Vincentine Terri∣tory, the Almains being retired to Verona: So as in a very short space they reco∣uered whatsoeuer they had lost the yeare before (Legnaga excepted,) and not satisfied here-with, they came and beseeged Verona, where lay three hun∣dred Spanish Lances, a hundred as well Almains as Italians, and more then [ 50] foure hundred French Lances, fiue hundred foote-men and foure thousand Almains, vnder the command of the Prince of Anhalt, who not long before dyed▪

The people of Verona not affecting the Almains, had taken armes, and therein* 1.153 consisted the Venetians chiefest hope, expecting when they within the citty would rise in their behalfe. The Venetian Army was of eight hundred men at Armes, three thousand light horse, the most of whom were Stradiots, and ten thousand* 1.154 foot, with great numbers of husbandmen. They began with great fury to batter the citties walls, (notwithstanding that the townes artillery did greatly hurt them) and they did beat downe a great part of the wall, euen to the scarpe: yet neuerthe∣lesse, it was more valiantly defended then assailed, wherevpon the Venetian Cap∣taines being discouraged, perceiuing likewise that the people were quiet in the cit∣ty, they determined to raise their Campe, and made hast so to doe, vpon intelli∣gence, [ 10] that the Lord of Chaumont, (who after the Suisses departure, hauing no∣tice of the danger wherein Verona was) marched thether to their reliefe.

The Venetians being retired to Saint Martins, fiue miles from Verona, marched* 1.155 to Boniface, in regard of the Lord of Chaumonts comming. In the meane time, Vdislaus King of Hungary, beeing solicited by Maximillian and the French King, did at the same time call Petro Pascalic, Ambassador for the Signory in Hungary into his councell chamber, and told him that his meaning was to make warre vp∣on* 1.156 them, vnlesse they yeelded vp Slauonia vnto him, which did in times past be∣long vnto his crowne, and that he was resolued to haue it: That if the common∣wealth would freely re-deliuer it, hee would for euer remaine their friend and con∣federate, [ 20] otherwise hee would let them know how much better it were to yeeld vp in friendship, that which they could not keepe by force. The Ambassador vpon this demand beginning to excuse the Senate, was not suffered to speake, and all the fauour hee could get was, To say that hee would aduertise the Senate thereof, crauing time that hee might receiue an answer: But at the comming forth of the Councell, certaine of those who had beene there present, did in secret bid the Ambassador not to bee discouraged, and told him, that their King for want of meanes could not make warre vpon them, but that those threatnings were onely to content the French King and the Emperor, who requested it, and some Hun∣garian Lords, who for their owne particular ambition, incited him therevnto, the [ 30] which the successe of that businesse prooued afterward to be true.

Now to returne to the Venetian Armie which was retired to Saint Boniface,* 1.157 those of Treuiso tooke the towne of Azola by composition, whilest in the Fri∣oull they proceeded with the vsuall cruelties and variations, in destroying build∣ings, and spoiling the countrey. The Marquis of Mantua was at the same time deliuered from his imprisonment by the Popes meanes, who did greatly affect him, meaning to make vse of him and his Estate in his warre against the French* 1.158 King. Others say, that it was by the meanes of Bajazet Emperor of Turkes, who was a great friend to the Marquis, who caused the Bayliffe of the Venetian Mar∣chants, trading at Pera, to promise that the Senate should▪ set him at liberty, the [ 40] which was speedily done, because they would not incense so mighty a Prince against them.

The Pope was againe desirous to make an attempt on the Citty of Genoa, pro∣mising to him selfe more then euer the alteration of that State: Wherevpon the Venetians, rather of necessity, then for any liking to his furious motions, did aug∣ment* 1.159 their sea Armie which lay at Ciuita▪vecchia, with foure great ships, the like did the Pope, adding one Galeasse, with certaine other vessels to his owne. This fleet departing thence, wherein were fifteene light Galleys, three great Galleys, one Galeasse, and three ships of Biscay, went and shewed themselues before the hauen of Genoa. But the Citty being kept in such manner, as not any of the con∣trary [ 50] faction durst stirre, and the Ordnance of the tower of Codifa playing con∣tinually vpon them, they were constrained to retire: and beeing come to Porto∣uenere, dispairing likewise of dooing any good there, it returned to Ciuita-vec∣chia, from whence the Venetian vessells departing home-wards by the Popes

consent, were assailed by a terible tempest, in which fiue Galleis were cast away,* 1.160 the residew being driuen vpon the coast of Barbary, did in the end come into the Venetians hauens much broken.

In this manner nothing fell out luckily for the Pope of all that he had enterpri∣zed against the French King: for no commotion arose in Genoa as hee had confi∣dently promised to him-selfe; the Venetians also attempted in vaine to take Vero∣na, and the Swisses, who had rather shewed then brandished their armes, returned, and went on no farther: and in Ferrara, by reason of the speedy aid of the French who were come thither ther was no likelihood of any danger Modena only taken by stealth, remained to him. [ 10]

Yetneuerthelesse the Venetians alone tooke his part, because his enterprizes proceeded not from any particular interest, but from a sole and sincere desire of the liberty of Italy, but he could not hope much from them, by reason their trea∣sure was exhausted, and them-selues oppressed with sondry difficulties. The French King beeing by so many experiences assured of the Popes bad meaning towards him, determined to strengthen him-selfe as much as he might with the Emperors friendship, and to passe in person the spring following into Italy, to make warre on the Venetians, or on the Pope, according as the state of his affaires should petmit.

[ 20]

The end of the eight Booke of the fourth Decade.

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

WIth what boldnesse and resolution Pope Iulius marched a∣gainst the Duke of Ferrara, and beeing not able to ouercome [ 20] him by temporall armes, he vsed spirituall; A Generall Coun∣cell published at Lions. A new Confederacy, as well offen∣siue as defensiue, betwixt the Emperor and the French∣King. How greatly the marche of the French Army toward Bolognia, did afright the Pope and all his Cardinals. The Lord of Chaumonts retreate into the Dutchy of Milan. The Duke of Ferrara defeateth the Venetians nauall Army. The Popes Army taketh the Citty of Concorda. Mirandolo taken by the Confederates. The King doth wholy resolue to make warre on the Pope. The [ 30] Death of the Lord of Chaumont, where vpon Triuulcio is made Generall of the Army. A great Earthquake at Venice, and in the Countrey neere adioy∣ning. The Popes Army is defeated before the Bastida Geniuola. The French Kings discontent for that the Emperor consenteth to a peace with the Vene∣tians. The King of Arragons secret practises against the French King. The Cardinall of Pauia flyes from Bolognia at the arriuall of the French. The flight of the Duke of Vrbin, Generall of the Popes Army. Death of the Cardi∣nall of Pauia, slaine by the Duke of Vrbin. The French King greatly desireth [ 40] to bee at peace with the Pope. How the Venetians did still maintaine their forces and greatnesse. A new confederacy betwixt the Pope, the King of Arra∣gon, and the Venetians. The Swisses come downe into the Dutchie of Milan. The Army of the Confederates before Bolognia, the which is releeued by Ga∣ston of Foix. And lastly how the Confederates Army dislodgeth from before Bolognia.

[ 50]

The ninth Booke of the fourth Decade of the [ 10] Historie of Uenice.

THe Pope continuing his displeasure against the Duke of Ferrara, omitted all other designes onely to pursue this: and to this end hee came to Bolognia, at the later end of* 1.161 September, by his presence to hasten matters, and to giue the greater authority to his affaires, resoluing to assaill Ferrara both by land and water, with all his owne forces, and those of the Venetians, who at his [ 20] request sent two armed fleetes against Ferrara, which being entred into the Po by the Fornaces, and by the hauen of Primara made great spoile on the Ferrara territory: the like did the Popes forces at the same time, and yet they came not neere to Ferrara, where besides the Dukes forces, were two hundred and fifty French lances, and the Popes army was not suffitient to assayle the Citty by land. For allbeit the Pope gaue pay for eight hundred men at Armes, six hundred light horse, and six thousand foote; the complete number of so many was greately wanting: as also for that by his command Marke An∣thony Colonna, and Iohn Vittelli were gone with two hundred men at armes, and three hundred foote, for the gard of Modena. In regard whereof he requested, [ 30] (seeing that the Venetians had in a manner recouered the country of Friull,) that part of their army might be brought on the Ferrarois. He did more-ouer ex∣pect* 1.162 three hundred lances, which the King of Arragon was bound to send him, according to the articles of the inuestiture of the realme of Naples, making ac∣count vpon the arriuall of all these forces to assaile Ferrara for his part, and that the Venetians should doe the like for theirs; hee perswaded him-selfe that the people of the Citty would forth-with take armes in his behalfe against the Duke, and hee would not harken to those who told him, That it would not so fall out, in regard of the garrison within it, which was sufficient to defend the Citty, and to hinder the people (if they were so bent) from reuolting. [ 40]

About the same time an intelligence, which the Venetians had on the Citty* 1.163 of Bressia was discouered, the Author whereof Earle Iohn Maria of Martinenga was beheaded there.

Now the Pope perseuering in his hope, did promise to him-selfe though all his other forces should faile, to be able to take Ferrara with his owne, and the Veneti∣an fleets, notwithstanding al the reasons giuen by his Captaines to the contrary; but he found himselfe to be deceiued, For the Duke comming forth of Ferrara, did assaill the Venetians fleete, which was entred by Primaria, and comming to Hadria with two Galleis, two Fusts, and with diuers small boates, hee did easily defeate it: then hee went to meet with the other, the which consisting onely of [ 50] * 1.164 fustes, and other small vessells had entred by the fornaces, and was come to Puli∣selsa; which attempting to retire into the riuer Adicé, by a chanell neere at hand, it could not by reason of the shallownesse of the water: where-vpon being assai∣led, and beaten with the enemies ordnance, those of the fleet not beeing able

to defend it were enforced to forsake it; and to vse meanes to saue them-sel•…•…es and their ordnance. The Pope perceauing that his temporal armes, were not of force to execute his deseignes, made vse of spirituall, and did publickly excommu∣nicate Alfonso of Este▪ and all those who were or should come to his aid, and* 1.165 namely the Lord of Chaumont, and all the cheefe persons of the French army.

The French King, who already vpon the Popes behauiour determined to call a generall councell against him, and had caused all the prelates of his Kingdome, to meete at Orleans and afterwards at Tours, hauing notice of his Ecclesiasticall censure, executed so rashly vpon his subiects, was of opinion in this assembly where he was present diuers times, that before hee would free him-selfe from his [ 10] * 1.166 obedience to send Ambassadors to him, to aduertise him of the articles concluded on by the French Clergy, against which if hee thought to except, he should be cited to the generall councell, which all Christian Princes had determined should bee assembled by a certaine day. According to this resolution, the Councell was published at Lyons, against the first day of March next ensuing.

Within a while after, the Bishop of Gurcia, sent from the Emperor arriued at* 1.167 Tours where his entertainment was sumptuous, which shewed how greatly his comming was desired: with whome the King continuing, to treat of matters which had already beene handled, at the first they seemed to bee very ca∣sie, but they were afterwards drawne forth at length, as well by reason that the [ 20] Emperors answers were very slow, as for the doubt they made of the King of Ar∣ragon: The Emperor and the French King thought it fit to bee assured of his in∣tent, as well in regard of the continuation of the League of Cambray, as for that which was to be done with the Pope, if hee perseuered in the Venetians frindship, and in his couetuousnesse to purchace immediately the demaine of Ferrara to the Church. The Catholike King, hauing answered all these demandes, and his in∣tent being fully knowne: the Bishop of Gurcia on the one side, in the name of the* 1.168 Emperor, and the French king on the other, did passe a new confederacy together, reseruing place for the Pope to enter into it, within two moneths after, and for the Catholike King, and the King of Hungary within foure. The King promised [ 30] to giue the Emperor a hundred thousand crownes, the one halfe to bee paid pre∣sently, and the other halfe at a time prefixed: and the Emperor promised to passe into Italy against the Venetians, at the spring time, with three thousand horse and ten thousand foote: and that then the King should send him, at his owne charge, twelue hundred horse, and eight thousand foote, with store of artillery, and cer∣taine shipes by sea.

But during these treaties in France with the Bishoppe of Gurcia, the Lord of Chaumont hauing recouered Carpi, determined by the soliciting of the Benti∣uoles, on a sodaine to assaile the citty of Bolognia, wherein the Pope and his whole Court lay, in regard of the faire occasion which was presented, there being [ 40] in the Citty but a few strange souldiours. In this determination hee set forward, and hauing taken Spilimberta, and Castelfranco hee came and lodged at Crespo∣lana, ten miles from Bolognia, meaning the next day to shew himselfe before the gates. His comming being diuulged through the Citty, and that the Bentiuoles* 1.169 were with him, it was filled with confusion and tumult. The Cardinalls and Pre∣lats not accustomed to the dangers of warre, came to the Pope, complayning for that hee had exposed the sea Apostolike and themselues to so greate danger, be∣seeching him to vse meanes to appease matters, by the mildest composition hee could. The Ambassadors of the Emperor, the Catholike King, and the King of England made the like request. Him-selfe alone in so great confusion and dis∣order, [ 50] vncertaine of the peoples fidelity, and discontented for that the Vene∣tians aid was so slow, did obstinately resist all their importunities. But beeing at last ouer-come by the prayers and entreaties of so many, he did consent to haue a messenger sent to the Lord of Chaumont to know of him whether

Iohn Francisco Pico Earle of Mirandola, might safely come vnto him from the Pope. The Lord of Chaumont being assured of the King his Maisters minde, who desired nothing more then to be at peace with the Pope, did freely condescend to the Earle of Mirandolas comming to him, who being arriued he gently heard, and sent him backe the same day to Bolognia, to signifie to the Pope the conditions, whereon he was contented to make an accord, who soone returned with an an∣swere. The Pope hauing, contrary to his custome, patiently heard the articles propounded by the Lord of Chaumont, together with the entreaties of the Car∣dinalls* 1.170 who besought him with incredible affection to compound howsoeuer, [ 10] did greatly complaine, for that they propounded ouer hard conditions to him, and seeming greatly to doubt, hee spent that day without declaring, what his intent was. But the arriuall of Chiapin vitelli at Bolognia with six hundred light horse of the Venetians, with a squadron of Turkes whome they kept in pay, did encrease his hope.

The Lord of Chaumont came the day following with his whole army and quartered it at the bridge of Rene, three miles from Bolognia, whether the Am∣bassadors of the Emperor, and the Kings of England, and Arragon, came to see him, who returned diuers times the same day (and with them Albert Pico) to∣ward* 1.171 the Pope and the Lord of Chaumont. But the disposition of either of them was much changed: For the Pope had taken courage, perceiuing the people of [ 20] Bolognia freely to shew themselues in the Churches behalfe, and that besides these companies that were arriued, he expected the same day two hundred Stra∣diots* 1.172 from the Venetians, Fabricio Colonna with two hundred light horse, and cer∣taine Spanish men at Armes. On the contrary, the Lord of Chaumont beganne to distrust the getting of the victory, perceauing that the people did not rise in fauour of the Bentiuoles, as they had promised him, and that he began to want* 1.173 victualls, the which was likely to grow greater euery day: The Pope by meanes here of beginning againe his vsuall braues, answered, vpon new conditions of peace which were propounded, That there was no meanes to come to an agree∣ment, [ 30] vnlesse the French Kinge would be bound wholy to giue ouer the defence of Ferrara; where-vpon the whole businesse remaining imperfect, the Lord of Chaumont departed thence, as wel by reason of the want of victualls which were greatly diminished, as because he dispaired of doing any good, either by armes or by treaties of peace, and returned to Castel-Franco, and the next day to Rubiero, making shew that hee did it to giue the Pope time to thinke on what he had pro∣pounded, and for him selfe to vnderstand the Kings pleasure. The Pope being ex∣treamely incensed against the king, so soone as the Lord of Chaumont was depar∣ted, complained of the king, & told the Ambassadors, that he would no more giue* 1.174 eare to peace, vnlesse Ferrara were first of all yeelded to him, where-vpon he leui∣ed [ 40] new forces, and incited the Venetians to send part of their forces to Modena, to ioyne with his, & to molest Ferrara with the other part, promising to himselfe in a short space to take Regio, Rubiera and Ferrara. If the forces of the Pope, the Venetians, and the Spanish lances vnited together had forth with marched against the French, it was cerrenly thought that the Lord of Chaumont would haue forsaken Regio, but their delay encoraged him, and caused him to leuie new com∣panies of foote in sted of those whome hee had cassed at his discamping from be∣fore Bolognia. Whilest the Popes army, and that of his associates did temporise* 1.175 neere to Modena, the Duke of Ferrara with the French companies, which were commanded by the Lord Castillon, encamped on the Po, iust opposite to the Ve∣netian [ 50] companies who lay on the farther side of the riuer; they making a retreate, were assailed by diuers boates of Ferrara and by the Dukes ordnance, which sanke eight of their vessells, and the residew hardly escaped. On the other side, the Popes* 1.176 army, commanded by Fabricio Colonna in the absence of the Marquis of Mantua, did beseege Sassuola the which being beaten with the artillery was taken by assault

and the Castle within a while after. Sassuola beeing taken, the Pope would haue Montechia, a very strong place, to be beseeged, but Fabricio Collonna would not do it, saying; that his King had expresly forbidden him to meddle with any thing that did belong to the Empire.

The Lord of Chaumont, according to the meaning of the King his maister, ha∣uing placed a strong garrison in Rhegio, went to Parma resoluing to temporise till the spring. The Pope beeing impatient to see his deseignes not executed, not∣withstanding* 1.177 the sharpnesse of the season, fent for all his Captaines to Bolognia, and propounded to them the seege of Ferrara, and notwithstanding their gene∣rall dislike of the matter (the Venetians excepted) they at last resolued, (to [ 10] please him) first to assaile Mirandola, thereby to take from the French al means of hindering the seege of Ferara afterward, and the releeuing thereof: and by the same meanes to beseege as they went along, the Citty of Concorda, which held* 1.178 for the King. This being determined was likewise executed: for beeing come before Concorda, they forthwith tooke it by force, and the castle by compositi∣on: then they drew neere to Mirandola, whether the Pope came in person, think∣ing that his soldiers went slowly to worke, and that his presence would aduance the businesse, preferring the fury and heate of his spirit before all other respects: albeit the Cardinalls did earnestly entreat him not to go thither, and that the Ve∣netians [ 20] who were his greatest fauorits, did blame him for it. In regard of his presence, complaints, promises and threatenings, all thinges were sett foreward more then otherwise they would haue beene; and yet neuerthelesse the sharpnes of the weather, and many other difficulties oppugning it, no great matter was performed.* 1.179

Those within Mirandola did brauely defend it (who were commanded by Al∣exander Triuuicio seconded by foure hundred stranger footmen) vpon hope that they should be releeued, but the contention betwixt the Lord of Chaumont, and Iohn Iacamo Triuulcio was cause of the losse of the place: for the Lord of Chau∣mont preferring his owne passion before the Kings proffit, was glad that the Nephewes of Triuulcio might be depriued of Mirandola: and therefore he excu∣sed [ 30] his sending of releefe by reason of the difficulty to bring ordnance thither in so cold a season, by so bad waies, and through such deep snow as the like had not beene seene of a long time before, which were things greatly to be considered.

The Pope on the contrary omitted nothing for the obtaining of the victory▪ wherby those within the towne beeing out of hope to be releeued, and fearing that they should not be able to resist the first assault, in regard of the great breach* 1.180 which the enemies ordnance had made, sent messengers to the Pope, to certe∣fie him that they would yeeld, so their liues and goods might be spared: albeit the Pope would not at first tye himselfe to saue the soldiers liues, yet neuerthelesse he did at last agree to it at the earnest entreatie of his followers and the inhabitants [ 40] that redeemed the sack of their towne which had been promised to the soldiers the Castle in like manner yeelded. The Pope by the taking of Mirandola, ho∣ping as sodenly to get Ferrara, would no more giue eare to any talke of peace, vn∣lesse first of all Ferrara were yeelded to him. The French King on the other side, hauing notice of the losse of Mirandola, and considering how greatly it did ble∣mish his reputation, perceiuing likewise that the Pope continued in his displea∣sure against him, resolued to assaile him: therefore he sent word to the Lord of Chaumont not only to defend Fertara, but to offend the Churches lands vpon the first occasion that should be offered: For which, the Lord of Chaumont ma∣king [ 50] preparation, and hauing assembled his whole army, he made the Pope to al∣ter his minde, who by the aduice of his Captaines went back to Bolognia, and from thence within a while after to Rauenna.

The French Army being ready to march, the Captaines consulted on what place to make their first attempt: some were of opinion to goe directly,

to assaile the enemies in their trenches, hoping by force of armes and by the su∣ry of the artillery, easily to enforce them to retire, and by that meanes to free Fer∣rara from all danger. Others were of a contrary opinion, and the cheefe of those was Triuulcio, who was newely come from France, who hauing declared the dan∣ger* 1.181 of assailing the enemies army in their fortification, councelled them to march towards Modena, or Bolognia, hoping if the enemies did remooue, for feare of losing any of those townes, to fight with them, and to obtaine the victory: and if they did not remooue, they might then with ease take the one or other of them.

This was Triuulcio his opinion, but it was not followed, the better there∣by [ 10] to diminish his authority, in regard of the hatred wich the Lord of Chaumont did beare him: as also because that Alfonso of Este, did vrge them to follow the former opinion, for feare that if the French should goe farre from thence, the ene∣mies might enter into the Pollesin of Ferrara, a matter which would greatly haue augmented the Citties disease. But the Lord of Chaumont hauing vnderstood by the way, the great difficulty which was made to come to Finall where the ene∣mies were encamped, by reason of the waters which ouer-flowed the country neere adioyning, he beganne greatly to doubt, for the cleering whereof, notwith∣standing that Alphonso did perswade him to the contrary, he assembled the coun∣cell, where Triuulcio being entreated openly to deliuer what he thought thereof, [ 20] spake in this manner.

I Did yesterday hold my peace, because I haue often-times knowne by experi∣ence,* 1.182 that my councell hath beene lighlty esteemed, the which if it had beene followed at the beginning, wee should not at this present be where wee are, nor haue lost so many daies vainely, which might haue beene spent with more pro∣fit, and I should now continew in the same opinion to bee silent, if I were not spur'de forward by the impotance of the matter, in regard wee now stand on termes, to commit to the most vncertaine hazard of one day, this army, the state of the Duke of Ferrara, and the Dutchy of Milan, which is to great a cast except wee reserue some-what to play afterwards. Besides, that which prouoketh mee to [ 30] speake, is, for that as I imagine, the Lord of Chaumont desireth that I should bee the first to councell that which he already beginneth to tast and thinke well of: Which is no new thing with me, because I haue heretofore knowne my councels to be lesse contemned, when it is needfull to retract some-what which peraduen∣ture hath not beene maturely determined, then when the first determinations are to bee made. We treat of going to fight with the enemy, and I haue alwaies obserued that great Captaines, haue held for a firme ground, (the which I haue like-wise knowne by experience,) that a man neuer ought to hazard the fortune of a battaill, vnlesse he be inuited therevnto by some great aduantage, or enforced by vrgent necessity: for it is according to the reason of warre, that it belongeth [ 40] to the enemies who are the assaillants, and who are in the field for the conquest of Ferrara, to seeke to assaill vs; and our Captaines whose part is to defend, ought not to attempt to assaill them, contrary to all rules of Martiall discipline. But let vs consider what aduantage wee haue, or what necessity inforceth vs to it. It seemeth vnto me, and I doe not altogeter deceiue my selfe, that it is a matter very apparent, that wee cannot do what the Duke of Ferrara pro∣poundeth, but with our great disaduantage, because we cannot goe to that place, but by a causey and by a very narrow and bad way, where all our forces cannot display them-selues, and where the enemies may very well with small forces resist a greater number. Wee must march vpon the causie [ 50] one horse after another, and wee must bring the artillery, carriage, wagons and bridges ouer this narrow causie. And who is it that knowes not that in a straight and foule way euery peece of ordnance, euery waggon that shall sticke fast

in the mire, will for a large houres space cause the whole army to make a stand? And that being pestred with so many incombrances euery contrary accident, will easily disorder vs? The enemies are driely lodged, furnished with victuals and forage; we shal in a manner encampe in the open ayre, forrage is to be brought after vs, and we shall not be able but with great labour, to bring the one halfe of that we shall need: We must not referre our selues to that which ingeners saie, and to husbandmen which know the Countrey, Because warres are managed by soldiers armes, and by Captaines Councels: They are made by fighting in the field, and not by proiects which those that are ignorant of warres do figure forth in paper, or describe with their fingers, or with a stick in the dust. As for my selfe [ 10] I doe not presuppose that the enemies areso weake, no•…•… their affaires in such dis∣order; nor that in their lodging and fortification they haue had so smal skill as not to helpe themselues by the opportunity of the waters, and sytuations, as I can pro∣mise to my selfe, that so soone as we shal be com to the place whether we make ac∣count to go, (their we could with ease ariue ther) that it lyeth in our power to as∣saile them, Sundry difficulties may enforce vs to tary ther two or thre daies, and if there were none other let, the snow and rayne falling in so bad a season, will stay vs▪ And besides, how should we prouide victuals and forage, if it should fall out that we were to carry there? And though it were in our power to assaile them, who is he that can so easily promise to himselfe the victory? Who is it which consi∣dereth [ 20] not how dangerous a matter it is to deale with enemies that are strongly encamped, and to haue to doe at one time with them, and with the discomodi∣ties of the contries situation. Vnlesse we can be able on a sodaine to to enforce them thence, we our selues shall be constrained to returne back. And how hard a matter will it be, in a country which is wholly our enemie, and where euery small mishap will prooue very great. Besides, I see small reason, to put the Kings whole state in such precipitate danger, seeing we are chiefly in action for no o∣ther matter but for to releeue the Citty of Ferrara, of which, if we furnish it with a stronger garrison we may be assured (yea although we should breake vp out army); for it is thought to be so much consumed, as if the enemies waight on it∣a [ 30] little longer, it is impossible but it wil shortly fall of it selfe. Is it not yet in our power to turne back, a most mighty remedy in warre, whereby without hazar∣ding any one horse, we will enforce them to depart from before Ferrara? I haue e∣uer councelled, and now councell more then euer, to turne towards Modena or Bolognia keeping the broad way, and to fortefie Ferrara for a few dayes, (for it will not be long) with all thinges necessary. Now in mine opinion it is best to go forthwith to Modena, wherevnto the Cardinall of Este doth prouoke vs, who is a personage of great state, in which Towne he doth assure vs to haue intelligence, and that we may easily take it, For by winning a place of so great importance, the enemies shal be enforced to retire on a sodaine towards Bolognia. And al∣though [ 40] we should not take Modena, yet the feare which would possesse the ene∣mies, as wel for that as for the state of Bolognia, will constrayne them to doe the like, as without al doubt they would long ere this haue done, if at the first this op∣pinion had beene followed.

The great reasons of this wise Captaine was approo∣ued by al men, by meanes wherof the Lord of Chaumont hauing strongly man'd* 1.183 Ferrara with soldiers for her safety, held on his way towards Carpy, from thence to march to Modena.

But the Pope by the king of Arragons councell hauing restored it to the Em∣perour, to auoid so many discontents and to quiet his mind which was displea∣sed for that the Pope had seased on it, it being euer accounted a Citty of the iu∣risdiction [ 50] of the Empire, was cause that the Lord of Chaumont being certefied of this restauration, desisted from his enterprise: who within a while after falling sick was brought to Corregia, where fifteene dayes after he dyed, hauing before his death very deuoutly adknowledged the faults which he had committed against

the Church, and besought the Pope to giue him absolution, the which hee freely graunted.

By his death Iohn Iames Triuulce, gouerned the Army because hee was one of the foure Marshalls of France, vnto whome (the Generall of the Army beeing dead,) the gouernment belongeth, by the customes of France, vntill the King hath other-wised disposed thereof.

There happened at the same time a great Earth-quake in Venice, whereby* 1.184 part of the walls of the Ducall pallace fel downe, with the Marble statues in Saint Markes Church, which had beene set vp for the beautifing of the building, the st•…•…ples of Churches were shaken, and the Bells range of them-selues: The wa∣ters [ 10] of the canal•…•… did swell, diuers houses and chimneis fell downe, wherewith in∣finite numbers of people were slaine, sundry women with child dyed; But Gods pleasure was that it lasted not long, wherevpon the Patriarks commanded pray∣ers to be made ouer all the Citty, with fasting for three daies space, with bread and water. The like Earth-quake happened soone after at Padua, Treuiso, Vdina, and in other places and territories belonging to the common wealth.

Now Tri•…•…ulcio commanding the Army, returned with all his for∣ces to S•…•…rmidi, to goe to releeue the Bastid Geniuola, which the Popes Army be∣seeged,* 1.185 and whether the Venetian fleete was going. But he went on no farther, hauing notice in that place, that the Duke of Ferrara, with the Lord Chastillon, [ 20] and the French forces, were gone forth with great numbers of soldiours, and had defeated the enemies, whome they found in disorder, and taken their enseignes and Artillery.

During these warlike exploits, the deseignes of the Princes were sundry, and vncertaine, especially those of the Emperor, who being by nature variable, and* 1.186 inconstant, and solicited by the Kings of Arragon, an enemy to the French name, and iealous of the French Kings greatnesse, determined to listen to peace, not∣withstanding that he had concluded before with the French King, by meanes of the Bishoppe of Gurcia, to make warre withall his might on the Venetians, [ 30] at the spring: and to this end wrot at one time to the Pope, and the French King, that he was resolued to send the Bishop of Gurcia to Mantua, to treate of an vni∣uersall peace, requesting them to send their Ambassadors thether likewise with full and ample power: hee wrot nothing to the Venetians, knowing that they would doe what-so-euer pleased the Pope, whose authority they were enforced to follow.

This aduice pleased the Pope, vpon hope to reconcile the Venetians to him, and to disunite them from the French King, whereat he cheefely aimed. But the King* 1.187 was not contented with such an vnhoped for determination, as well for feare of the determination of matters concluded with him: as also for the doubt he had, [ 40] that the Pope thorow faire promises to aide him in the conquest of the Dutchy of Milan, and to giue a Cardialls Hat to the Bishoppe of Gurcia, might separare him from his party: He was well assured, that it was the practises of the King of* 1.188 Arragon, and kn•…•…w very well that his Ambassador with the Emperor had labo∣red, and did openly labour, for the agreement betwixt the Emperor and the Venetians; and did vse diuers other practizes to contradict his deseignes, and among others, did hotly oppose him-selfe against the conuocation of a ge∣nerall councell vnder collour of curtesie, and caused the King his Maister to bee earnest with him to make peace with the Pope, making in a manner a silent protestation to take Armes in the Popes behalfe if hee did not agree [ 50] with him.

The French King dissembling all these dealings, because hee would giue the Emperour no cause of discontent, resolued to send the Bishoppe of* 1.189 Paris to Mant•…•…; and in the meane time aduertised Iohn Iames Tri•…•…lce,

that his pleasure was to haue him to command the army, but that he should not assaile the Churches state, till the Bishop of Gurcia were arriued. Triuulcio vpon this command turned his forces against the Venetians, and came to Stel∣lata; then passing on farther, he surprized certaine Venetian cauallery, and sent* 1.190 Gaston of Foix son to a sister of the kings, being yet very yong, with a hundred men at armes, foure hundred light horse, and fiue hundred foot to scoure euen to the enemies barriers: who did put those that kept them to flight and made them to retire to a strong place beyond the channel.

In the meane space the Bishop of Gurcia came to Mantua, but later then hee was expected, where within a while after the Bishop of Paris arriued. The Pope [ 10] entreated the Bishop of Gurcia to come and visit him, hoping by his presence, and authority, and by faire promises to winne him. The Bishop after diuers difficul∣ties propounded and wel debated on, being solicited by the king of Arragons Am∣bassadors, consented therevnto, on condition that the Bishop of Paris should stay at Parma, and expect what would fall out by his iourney.

The Bishop of Gurcia arriuing at Bolognia, whether the Pope was of purpose* 1.191 come to receiue him, there was so great honour done vnto him, as a King could not be entertained with greater magnificence: the Venetians Ambassador neere to the Pope, went to the city gates to meet him, vsing signes of very great submis∣sion: but the Bishop turning from him with merueilous pride and disdaine shew∣ed [ 20] great discontent, because that •…•…epresenting the enemies of the Emperour his master▪ he had beene so bould as to come before him. That being done, he went with great pompe to the Consistory, where the Pope, accompanied by all the Cardinals, staied for him; And hauing breefly declared the causes of his com∣ming into Italy he returned to his lodging. The next day with great arrogancy, he conferred of diuers matters with the Pope, and especially, that if the Venetians did mean to haue peace with the Emperor, it behooued them in any case to restore whatsoeuer they deteined which did belong to the Empire.

Yet neuerthelesse they beganne after to treat of agreement betwixt the Em∣perour* 1.192 and the Venetians, where at the first diuers difficulties were made on both [ 30] sides: at the last after long disputation, each party cutting off some peeces of the hard conditions propounded by them, it was thought that by the mediation of the King of Arragons Ambassadors, they would come to an agreement. But so soone as they beganne to speake of reconciling the Pope to the French King, betwixt whom appeared none other contention but concerning the Duke of* 1.193 Ferrara, and that the Bishop of Gurcia went to the Pope to make an end thereof, (because without that, the Emperour would conclude nothing) the Pope did sodainely interrupt him, requesting him to hold on with the Venetians, and not to talke of the affaires of Ferrara, being in a manner desirous to incite the Empe∣ror [ 40] against the French: whereupon the Bishop of Gurcia tooke his leaue, and without effecting any thing returned from whence he came.

Triuulcio perceiuing the departure of the Bishop of Gurcia and by that meanes* 1.194 all hope of peace being lost, came into the field, and beseeged Concordia which he tooke the same day, and then marched towards Bomport a village seated on the Riuer Panare, that he might be nere the enemies, to the end that by cutting off their victuals he might enforce them to dislodge, or to fight forth of their campe. Entring into the country of Modena, he vnderstood that Iohn Paul Manfron was with three hundred light horse of the Venetians at Massa nere to Finall; he sent Gaston de Foix thither with three hundred foot and fiue hundred horse, who found Iohn Paul Manfron at a bridge in order of battaile, to stoppe his passage, but be∣ing [ 50] * 1.195 forsaken by his owne souldiers hee was taken prisoner by the French, with some others.

Triuulcio found meanes to passe the Channell to assaile the enemies who durst not tarry his comming. The Channell being passed, he foorded Panare without,

impediment in a very broad place, and where the water is not deepe, and marched towards Plumacia, three miles off from the enemies army, which was the cause that Castel-franco yeelded to him. He was there in great doubt what to doe: for on the one side he would willingly haue assailed Bolognia, if he had beene cer∣taine that the people would haue taken armes in the Bentiuoles behalfe: on the* 1.196 other side he feared, if he should come thither, vpon hope only of a popular com∣motion, to be enforced forth-with to depart thence as the Lord of Chaumont had done to his great disgrace. At the last he determined to tempt Fortune, and to try by drawing neere to Bolognia, if the particular intelligences of the Bentiuoles might stand him in any stead, and came and incamped at the bridge of Laina, fiue [ 10] miles from Bolognia.

The Pope so soone as the Bishop of Gurcia was departed, and that he vnder∣stood that Triuulcio marched with his army, left Bolonia, determining to goe to his owne army, by his presence to induce the captaines to fight, wherevnto he could not dispose them neither by letters nor messages, but being halfe way on his iourney, he came backe againe the day following, resoluing to goe to Rauenna. Yet neuerthelesse before his departure, he was desirous to make some small ex∣hortation to the Bologneses, whom he sent for to come and speake with him: and* 1.197 after he had declared vnto them how that by the benefit of the Sea Apostolike, & by his means they were freed frō greeuous tirany, he requested them with grea∣ter [ 20] seruensie then eloquence to continue faithfull vnto him, and to shew their generousnesse by valliantly defending themselues, and by that meanes to oblige to themselues and the Sea Apostolike, both himselfe, and all the Popes which should succeed him.

To this exhortation they answered: that they were not ignorant how much the* 1.198 city was bound vnto him in particular for hauing driuen thence the tyrants, and therefore they were resolued to spend all their goo•…•…s, to hazard the honour and safety of their wiues and children, and to lose their owne liues, before they would quit his party or that of the Sea Apostolike. [ 30]

The Pope on this assurance departed from Bolognia, leauing the Cardinall of Pauia there, and went to Rauenna: but so soone as he was on his way and that Triuulcio was come to the bridge of Laina, the Bolognois were troubled with* 1.199 sundry thoughts: some of them desired the returne of the Bentiuoles, others on the contrary, who shewed themselues their enemies, did fauour the Churches sig∣nory: so as all the people were in armes, some for one side and some for an other. The Cardinall being amazed thereat, did attempt for his owne assurance to draw captaine Ramassotta into the city with a thousand foot (for in all that great and populous city there were but two hundred light horse, and two thousand foot)* 1.200 but the people would not suffer it: wherevpon the Cardinall in despaire forsooke [ 40] the palace by stealth in the night, in disguised habit, and came to the Citadell and from thence attended by a hundred horse, he tooke his way towards Imola.

The Legats flight being knowne, the whole city begunne to rise, which the faction of the Bentiuoles perceiuing, they would not loose so faire an occasion, but ranne forthwith to the gates which were most commodious for the French* 1.201 campe, and brake them open, then they sent for the Bentiuoles, who came forth∣with with a troupe of French horse. The Duke of Vrbin, Generall of the Churches army, hauing had some inckling of the Legats flight, did in great hast dislodge* 1.202 with his whole army, which was neere him: whereof Triuulcio hauing notice, came to follow the run-awaies, and meeting with Raphael de Passi, who for a while [ 50] made head, he fought with him and tooke him prisoner.

The Venetians companies with those of Ramassotta beeing lodged on the moūt, hauing intelligence of the Duke of Vrbins flight did escape by the way of the mountaines into Romagnia, not without great losse. The French wonne in this victory, obtained without fight, fifteene peeces of great ordnance, with diuers

small ones as well of the Popes as of the Venetians, with a great part of the Chur∣ches bagage, and in a manner all that of the Venetians, and more then a hundred and fifty of their men at armes were stripped. There was not any one slaine in Bolognia, nor no violence offered, diuers only of the Cardinals followers were ta∣ken* 1.203 in the palace, from whom he had concealed his departure, and the Popes sta∣tue was dragged by the people in great derision thorow the market-place. Triu∣ulcio after the taking of Bolognia came to the Borrough of Saint Peter, to at∣tend there before he went on any further the French Kings pleasure.

The Senate hauing notice of this rout sent word to the Prouidator Gritti, who determined to goe and assaile Legnaga with his army, to desist from his enter∣prize, [ 10] * 1.204 seeing their affaires had so bad successe at Bolognia, and that he should haue a care to bring the artillery from the bankes of the Riuer Po, and to send it to Padua, and if that the French made preparation to execute any enterprise, that he should also retire for feare of being surprized.

The officers of Padua and Treuiso were likewise commanded to hasten the forti∣fications already begunne in their cities. And not satisfied there with, they chose Cristofero Mora for superintendent of those fortifications, who speedily went thi∣ther and brought with him as many foot-men as could be gathered together in Venice, for feare least the French waxing proud for this victory should crosse the Po, and make incursions on the Paduans confines, to the end that if they did [ 20] surprize any place, they might speedily recouer it againe. They wrot likewise to Donato, their Ambassadour with the Pope, what the Senate had determined, and commanded him to entreat the Pope from them not to trouble himselfe for the losse of his army, for the common-wealth would neuer faile him, but ranne the same fortune which he did. Wherevnto the Pope answering, said, that hee did greatly ioy to see the Venetians magnanimous constancy, and that it alone had much more encreased his courage against the French, and had infinitely com∣forted him.

In this meane time the Cardinall of Pauia arriued at Rauenna, who fled from Bolognia (as hath beene said) & hauing obtained audience of the Pope to purge [ 30] * 1.205 himselfe of accusations made against him, laid the whole blame of the losse of Bo∣lognia on the Duke of Vrbin, as on a young man insufficient and small experien∣ced in martiall matters. The Duke hauing notice of the bad offices which the Cardinall performed in his behalfe to the Pope his vncle, was desirous to come and kisse his feete, and to cleere himselfe of those imputations. But being come into the Popes presence, he found him so transported with choller, as he would not suffer him to speake, but sent him away with sharpe and iniurious speeches. The Duke perceiuing himselfe to be disgraced by the Cardinals meanes, resol∣ued on reuenge. And therevpon going towards his house to speake with him hauing no great traine, he met him in the street riding on his Mule being attended [ 40] * 1.206 on by the horsemen of his guard, with Guido Vaino his brother in law, riding to the Popes palace, the Duke drew nere vnto him, all men giuing him place in signe of reuerence, where with his owne hand hee slew him with a poinard, which being done he went to his owne lodging, leapt on horse-backe, and retired himself to Vrbin.

The Pope vpon the brute of the Cardinals death, beganne extreamely to greeue and lament, as well for that he had lost a Cardinall whom he loued decre∣ly, as also because so high a dignity had beene violated in a manner before his face and by his owne Nephew, wherevpon he determined to stay no longer there, but to returne to Rome. Being departed from Rauenna he vnderstood by the way [ 50] that sundry libels had beene set vp on the publike places of Modena and Bolognia,* 1.207 by which notice was giuen him of the conuocation of the Generall Councell in the city of Pisa, whether hee was cited to appeare in person, because hee was accounted vnfit to gouerne the Papacy, being Author of all the warres. The Pope

being come to Rome, did forthwith excommunicate the Bolognois, vnlesse they did returne to the obedience of the Sea Apostolike.

Within a while after, there happened a great tempest, with haile of such vn∣measurable bignesse, as the like had neuer beene seene at Bolognia, which did spoile and beate downe the fruites of the territory neere adioyning, the common people thought that it was a diuine punishment, by reason of the Popes censure. Now al be-it it was in the French Kings power, after this victory to haue taken* 1.208 Rome, the Popes forces being greatly weakened and dispersed, and those of the Venetians much more, he neuerthelesse commanded Triuulcio, that leauing Bolog∣nia to the gard of the Bentiuoles, he should with his army returne speedily into the [ 10] Dutchy of Milan; thinking that the Pope being freed from the suspition which he had causelesse conceiued of him, would be drawne to desire peace, the treaty whereof, had neuer yet beene wholy broken off.

But so soone as the Pope perceiued the army to be re-called into the Dutchy of Milan, he tooke courage, and propounded by the Scottish Ambassador whom for that purpose he had sent to the French King at his departure from Bolognia very hard and greeuous conditions of peace, the which neuerthelesse the King, for the great desire he had to be at peace with him, was content to accept of, if the Pope vpon his returne to Rome had not changed his minde thorow the per∣swasion of the King of Arragon. For then he made answere that he would haue [ 20] no peace, vnlesse the Venetians would make an accord with the Emperor, adding diuers other excessiue demands, which did so greatly mooue the Kings spirit, as he determined to hinder his recouery of Bolognia, the which he tooke into his owne protection with the Bentiuoles likewise, and sent foure hundred Launces thither. Then because he would still continue in his alliance with the Emperor, he commanded that the number of souldiers granted to the bishop of Gurcia should goe from the Dutchy of Milan to the succour of the Emperors lands vn∣der the command of the Lord de la Palisse.

The Emperour had a great desire to make warre on the Venetians, but con∣sidering the great preparations which he was to make, especially for the taking of [ 30] Padua, without which he knew he could doe no great matter, he was in a man∣ner* 1.209 ready to agree with them, so as being tossed vp and downe by diuers thoughts he spent the time in vaine, without executing any enterprize, promising from day to day to come in person into Italy, or to send his forces thither.

The Venetians in the meane time finding themselues to weake to take Verona, and being encamped betwixt Soaua, and Loniga, they burnt in a night a great part of the Veronois. But hauing intelligence of the comming of the Lord of La Palisse with twelue hundred Launces and eight thousand foot, they retired into a stronge place towards Legnaga and Vincenza, from whence likewise they dis∣lodged,* 1.210 and put themselues into Padua and Treuiso, for the defence of which [ 40] cities, diuers Venetian yong gentlemen came thether from Venice.

The French army tarried diuers daies at the bridge of Barbarana, expecting the Emperours comming or his resolution, who being come betwixt Trent and Rouero, being irresolute, after his wonted manner, what to doe, after he had gi∣uen audience to the Venetian Ambassadours, with whom he daily conferred, he solicited the Lord of La Palisse to goe and take the Pace of Castel-nouo which is beneath Escalla towards the Friul, to make his comming downe more easie on that side. The which the Lord La Palisse did brauely execute, and then retired to Escalla. But the Emperor hauing altered his determinatiō in stead of enuading what the Venetians held on the firme land, and going to beseege Rome, retired [ 50] * 1.211 to Trent, determining to go no more to the army, & commanded the Asmains to enter into the Friul, where they took Vdina with the whole Prouince, thē they re∣turned to ioyne with the Lord of La Palisse, who lay within fiue miles of Treuiso, the which the Emperor would haue to be assaulted, but being well sortified on

euery side, they found it most expedient speedily to retire the which they did. Wherevpon the Lord of La Palisse did soone after returne into the Dutchy of* 1.212 Milan by his Kings command, in regard of the Swisses new stirres and confede∣racies which did dayly encrease. The Venetian Stradio•…•…s did follow him at the heeles, hoping to endamage him at his passage ouer the Brente and the Adissa, but he found meanes safely to crosse them. His departure was cause that Iohn Paul Bail∣lon, Generall to the Venetians, by the death of Luke Malueze did recouer all that they had lost the same Summet, as well nere to Vincenza, as in Friul (Gradisca excepted.)

In these kindes of warlike exploits was that Summer spent, to the Emperours [ 10] great disgrace, and to the encrease of the Venetians reputation, who notwithstan∣ding* 1.213 the Emperours and the French Kings armies against them for the space of two yeeres, did in the end still retaine their owne forces and signories, and al-be-it that it was directly against the Emperour, it was neuerthelesse much more hurt∣full to the French King. For the Emperour, by reason he wanted aide, percei∣uing himselfe to weake to obtaine the desired victory, did willingly harken to those who perswaded him to be friends with the Venetians, so as already men be∣ganne to perceiue, that new deseignes were begotten in his minde.

The Pope in the meane time hauing made shew that he would come to an a∣greement* 1.214 with the French King, did at last declare himselfe openly against him, [ 20] and made a confederacy with the Catholike King and the Venetians to preserue (as he said) the vnion of the Church, to root out the Conuenticle (for so he ter∣med it) of Pisa, and to recouer the city of Bolognia, with all the other townes which mediately or immediatly did belong to the Church, therein comprehen∣ding the city of Ferrara▪ that they would attempt with a mighty army to driue all those out of Italy who should oppugne it; leauing place to the Emperor to en∣ter if he pleased into this confederacy, being desirous to disunite him from the French King.

Don Raymond de Cardona borne in Cattalognia and at that time viceroy of* 1.215 Naples was made Generall of their army, who by their agreement was to haue [ 30] two thousand foure hundred men at armes, two thousand fiue hundred light horse, and foure and twenty thousand foote, namely for the Popes part foure hundred men at armes, fiue hundred light▪horse, and sixe thousand foot, from the Senate of Venice, eight hundred men at armes, a thousand light horse, and eight thousand foot, and from the King of Arragon, twelue hundred men at armes, a thousand light▪ horse and tenne thousand foot. This confederacy was made vnder collour to free Italy from the Barbarians; a very speciall title which all men interpreted according to their iudgement and passion.

Gaston of Foix was made viceroy in the Dutchy of Milan and in the army, who* 1.216 hauing intelligence of the Swisses preparations for their comming downe, by [ 40] meanes of the Pope and his confederates into the Dutchy of Milan, caused all the victuals of the Dutchy to be shut vp in the fortes and castles, and placed strong Garrison in the neighbour cities, hoping that the men at armes would be able to make head against them in the plaines, and by that meanes soone enforce them to returne, if they should come into the field. The Swisses neuerthelesse were not daunted with these difficulties. But being come downe to Varesa, their number did daily increase, bringing with them seuen field peeces, and diuers great Harquebuzes carried on horse-backe, with some prouision of victuals.* 1.217 They sent a trumpet from Varesa to defie the Kings Lieutenant, who only to keepe victuals from them, was come to Assaron, a place thirteene miles distant from [ 50] Milan. From Varesa they came to Galera, being tenne thousand in number, and Gaston of Foix did put himselfe into Legnana, foure miles from Galera.* 1.218

Then being increased to the number of sixteene thousand, they came to Busti, where a hundred French men at armes lay in Garrison, who hardly escaped from

them, loosing their baggage and some of their horses: by meanes whereof the French, which still retired as the Swisses aduanced, came and quartered them∣selues in the suburbes of Milan, within two miles whereof the Swisses were come▪ but wondering that they heard no newes from the Pope nor from the Venetian army (as it was knowne by letters intercepted which they sent to their Lords) cer∣taine* 1.219 daies after they retired towards Coma, and from thence returned home in∣to their countrey.

Whilest they were retiring two posts arriued from the Pope and the Veneti∣ans: wherevpon it was thought of a certaine that if they had come sooner, the Swisses had not returned. But they being gone (as hath beene said) the Spani∣ards [ 10] and the Popes forces entred into Romagnia, whereall that which the Duke of Ferrara possessed did forthwith yeeld vnto them (the Bastion of La Fossa, and the foord of Geniuola excepted.)

Petro of Nauarre, Colonel of the Spanish Infantery, till such time as all their* 1.220 companies were come together, came and beseeged the Bastide, and hauing batte∣red it with three peeces of ordnance, and giuen it an assault, he tooke it the third day after his arriuall, where al the footmen that were in it were slain with Vest•…•…tello their captaine. Pedro of Nauarte leauing two hundred foot there, returned to the vicerois army: but the Duke of Ferrara going thither afterwards with nine great peeces of ordnance, did so suriously assaile it as he recouered it the very [ 20] same day: where all those who were within it with their captaine were slaine, in reuenge of the death of his souldiers.

The confederates army: namely that of the Pope, and the King of Arragon, to* 1.221 the number of eighteene hundred men at armes, eight hundred Genets, eight hundred light horse, and sixteene thousand foot, as well Spaniards as Italians, aboundantly furnished with munition, the most of them being come forth of the Realme of Naples, determined to encampe before Bolognia. The Venetian ar∣my on the other side being come vpon the Marches of Verona, seemed to threa∣ten the city of Bres•…•…ia. [ 30]

Now the viceroy, Generall to the Pope and the Spaniards, caused his army to march, and came and incamped betwixt the Riuer Adicé and Bolognia, where ha∣uing giuen order for matters necessary to beseege it, he drew nere to the walles, quartering and extending the most part of his army betwixt the hill, and the high way which goeth from Bolognia into Romagnia, in regard of the commodity of victuals which came from thence, and seized on Saint Michels Monastery which is very nere to the city, seated on an high place, and which doth in a manner command the towne.

Within the city, beside the people which did beare armes and certaine com∣panies* 1.222 of horse and foot, paied by the Bentiuoles, Gaston of Foix had sent thither [ 40] two thousand Lansequenets, and two hundred Launces, commanded by Odet of Foix Lord of Lautrect, and •…•…ues of Alegre, two famous captaines, and with them were the captaines Fayete, and Vincent surnamed the great Diuell, who vpon the assurance made to them by Gaston of Foix to releeue them, did freely enter it, in* 1.223 regard of the Cities large circuit. Yet neuerthelesse they began to be bold, when they perceiued the enemies small progression, who were nine daies before the walles, and enterprized nothing but onely made certaine idle Coluerine shot from Saint Michels Monastery into the city: but they sodainely abstained, per∣ceiuing very well that they spent their munition vnproffitably. They were di∣uers daies determining on what side to batter the city, especially to keepe releefe [ 50] from it: and after diuers and sundry opinions, they resolued to assaile it on that side nere to Saint Stephens Gate, by which men goe to Florence, and the artillery was planted within thirty fadom of the walles.

Pedro of Nauarre on the other side made a mine, drawing towards the gate of Chastillon, in a place where within was a little chappel called Baracane. The

Artillery hauing begunne to play, did in foure and twenty houres space beate* 1.224 downe an hundred fathom of the wall, with the tower of the gate, the which was abandoned, by reason it could be no longer defended so as the assault might be easily giuen on that side, and in the meane time they c•…•…used bridges of wood to be made, and filled the dike with fagots to come with more ease to the assault. The miue being finished they gaue fire to it, which with merucilous force did in such sort blow vp the wall and the chappell, as in that space, those without the towne did plainely discerne those within the city, with the souldiers who stood ready for defence, but the whole wall falling downe againe on a sodaine, did light in the very selfe same place, from whence the violence of the fire had forced it, [ 10] * 1.225 and was in such sort 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the selfe same foundations, as one would haue thought that it had neuer stir'd •…•…rom thence, which was accounted by all the peo∣ple for a strange miracle.

The captaines within the towne perceiuing the enemies preparations, before the mine was fired, fearing least the people through scare might be wonne, did speedily send to demand aide of Gaston of Foix, who the selfe same day sent thi∣ther* 1.226 a thousand foot, and the morrow after, a hundred & foure score Launces and then resolued to goe thither in person with the whole army, not-with-standing that in councell all the captaines contradicted it. Therefore hee came forth of Finall, late in the euening, and the next morning he marched towards Bolognia [ 20] with the whole army in battaile, notwithstanding the snowes and sharpe windes* 1.227 and entred it by Saint Felix gate, hauing in his company thirteene hundred Lan∣ces, six thousand Lansequenets, & eight thousand foot both French and Italians.

The enemies had no knowledge of his comming till a day after, that a Stadiot, of the number of those who were come forth among others to skirmish, was ta∣ken, who being questioned what was done in Bolognia, answered, That he could not say much, because he came thither but the day before with the French army: whereat the enemies wondering did more exactly examine him in what manner and what numbers had entred, and finding him constant in his answeres, they be∣leeued him, and resolued to raise their campe, in regard it was dangerous to tarry [ 30] * 1.228 there, as wel in respect of the cold season which did greatly afflict the souldiers, as also for the neighbour-hood of the City, so great an army being within it. Wher∣fore the next night following which was the nineteenth day of the seege, after they had with great dilligence and stilnesse, retired their ordnance, they dislodged early in the morning.

It was thought of a certaine that if the French army had sal•…•…ied forth the next morning after their arriuall, as Gaston of Foix had propounded it, they had sur∣prized the confederats campe, who in no sort doubted that he was come thither (as hath beene said) but •…•…ues of Alegre councelled to let the companies rest one day, who were weary with their iourney and the bad way, thinking that the enemy [ 40] had knowne of their comming, as it was to be presumed, entring at broad day light, and by the high-way of Rome.

The end of the ninth Booke of the fourth Decad.

[ 50]

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

[ 20]

THe City of Bressia taken by the Venetians is rescued by Gaston of Foix, by meanes of the Castle which held out still for the French. Bergamo by the example of Bressia expelleth the French. The defeate of Iohn Paul Baillon and Meleager of Furli by Gaston of Foix. The imprisonment of Andrew Gritti and An∣tonio Iustiniano. Truce betwixt the Emperour [ 30] and the Venetians by meanes of the Pope. Rauenna beseeged by Gaston of Foix. The Battaile of Rauenna wherein the French were victors. The death of Gaston of Foix slaine by the Spaniards, after the battaile was wonne. In what perplexity the Pope was after the French mens victory. The Swisses come downe into the territory of Verona, with their great hate to King Lewis, and vpon what occasion. The Champaine Country of Milan is forsaken, for to keepe the Cities from the Swisses. Milan, with all the Cities, almost, of the Dutchy, is redeliuered to the confederates. The City [ 40] of Genoa reuolteth from the King. League and confederacie betwixt the Pope, and the Emperour. Maximillian Sforza is restored to the Dutchy of Milan. The death of Pope Iulius the Second. A league con∣cluded betwixt King Lewis and the Venetians. The Election of Pope Leo the Tenth of the family of Medicis. King Lewis his great prepara∣tions for the warre of Italy. The Venetians take Cremona. The whole Dutchy of Milan in trouble and tumult in the behalfe of the French. The French make re-entry into all the state of Milan, two townes excepted. The [ 50] Swisses resolution to make warre on King Lewis. They come downe to Nouara.

The Swisses comming forth of Nouara in the night obtaine the victory a∣gainst the French. The French are driuen forth of the whole Dutchy of Milan. And lastly the taking and dismantling of Legnaga by the Vene∣tians.

[ 10]

The tenth Booke of the fourth Decad of the History of Venice. [ 20]

THe army being dislodged from before Bolognia, Gaston of Foix hauing left there three hundred Launces, and foure thousand foot for the garde thereof, came with great speed to the re∣liefe* 1.229 of the Castle of Bressia, for the Venetians tooke the Ci∣ty the same day that hee entred into Bolognia. For Count Lodouico Auogare a Bressian Gentleman, being wearied with the arrogancy and indiscretion of the French, hauing written to the councell of the Tenne, That if they would send their army to Bressia, he would finde meanes [ 30] to raise some tumult there, during which hee would by night open a gate for them, by which their forces might easily enter, and seize vpon the city. This mat∣ter was for certaine daies debated in the councell of Tenne, and then by them re∣ferred to the great councell, to the end it might be maturely determined, whe∣ther Count Lodowickes offer ought to be entertained or refused. After diuers and sundry opinions it was concluded to accept it, the matter being commanded to be kept secret: then they acquainted the Prouidator Gritti therewith, enioy∣ning him to march speedily with his troupes towards Bressia, and to march at the very houre, and to the gate which Count Lodowick should send him instructi∣ons for. [ 40]

Gritti vpon this commandment crossed the Riuer Adice at Albera, then that of Mincia, at the mill of La Volta, and comming to Monteclaro with three hun∣dred men at armes, thirteene hundred light-horse; and three thousand foote; he encamped that night at Castagnetta, fiue miles from Bressia, from whence he on a sodaine sent his light-horse to scoure euen to the gates. But the enterprise being discouered by a wife of one of the complices, who aduertized the Gouer∣thereof, of whom she was enamored; and by that meanes the towne being care∣fully guarded, Gritti thought it not fit to passe on any farther, wherevpon Count Lodowicke not being staied by the French, came with his sonne forth of the City. Andre Gritti being returned neere to Montagnane, from whence he first came, [ 50] * 1.230 left a sufficient gard for the bridge which hee had made ouer the Riuer Adicé, to the end to assure the passage, if he should happen to returne againe, as it after∣wards fell out. For within a while after being recalled, he crossed the Riuer with two Cannons and foure falconets, and returned to his quarter at Castagnetta.

Count Lodowick on the other side being accompanied with very great num∣bers of the people of the valeys of Eutropia & Sabina, whō he had caused to rise, was come within a mile of Bressia. And al-be-it they within the City did not yet* 1.231 make shew of fauouring the enterprise, yet neuerthelesse Gritti perceiuing, that he had greater forces then at the former time, he resolued to haue it by force: And beeing come with all those peasants, he assailed it in three seuerall pla∣ces, two of which had good successe, namely at the Gate of Piles where Auo∣gare fought, & at the gate of La Garzulo, where the souldiers entred at the iron grate, by which the riuer of the same name entreth into the city, notwithstan∣ding all the attempts and resistance of the French, who perceiuing the ene∣mies [ 10] to bee entred, and that the Bressans did rise in their behalfe, they re∣tired to the Castle, with the Lord of Luda their Gouernour, loosing their horse and baggage.

Bressia being taken all the townes along the Lake of La Garde, did driue a∣way* 1.232 the French, and yeelded to the Venetians: Bergamo did the like soone after (the two castles excepted) the one of which standeth in the middest of the city, and the other halfe a mile off. It was thought that if at Venice (where the ioy was incredible) they had forth▪with prouided that which Andre Gritti did so∣dainely write for, namely to send souldiers, and artillery which he had need of to win the castle of Bressia, they had made greater progression, or at least the victory [ 20] would haue beene more assured.

But during these exploits, Gaston of Foix being aduertized of what had pas∣sed* 1.233 at Bressia, did speedily march thither, who hauing passed the Po at Stellata, did so one crosse the riuer Mincia at the bridge of Molino, then he came and lodg∣ed at Nogera on the Veronois, and the day following at Pontpesara, and at Treuilla, where hauing intelligence that Iohn Paul Baillon was come with three hundred men at armes, foure hundred light horse, and twelue hundred foote to lodge at the Island of Escalla, hee ranne speedily thither with three hun∣dred* 1.234 Launces and seuen hundred Archers, the residue of the army, who could [ 30] not march so speedily, comming after, and finding him to bee gone, they fol∣lowed him hastily and ouertooke him, as he was at the point of the passing a foord of the riuer Adicé.

Iohn Paul Baillon hauing descried him a farre off, thinking it to be nothing else but part of the forces of Verona, did embattaile his souldiers and tarried for him. Both fides ioyning, fought valiantly for more then an houres space: but the Ve∣netians fortune beganne to decline by the arriuall of the residue of the army which came in file, and notwithstanding that they disordered them, they neuer∣thelesse rallied themselues diuers times, vntill being no longer able to resist the greatnumbers, they betooke themselues to flight; wherevpon Iohn Paul passed [ 40] the riuer safely, but diuers of his people were drowned.

The morrow after, Gaston of Foix did likewise put Meleager of Furli to rout,* 1.235 whom he incountred as he conducted certaine Venetian light horse, then hee came and encamped in the suburbes of Bressia, and without any delay at all hee sent to assaile the Monastery of Saint Fridiana, which stood halfe way off from the hill vnder which he was lodged, and hauing assaulted it, hee draue thence those which garded it, and turned with his army to the other side of the towne, that hee might be the nearer to the castle. The next morning by day breake, hauing cho∣sen* 1.236 out of the whole army, foure hundred men at armes well armed, and six thou∣sand foot, and going vp on that side nere to the Gate of Pises, he entred without [ 50] any resistance into the first wall of the castle, where after he had for a while cau∣sed his souldiers to test and refresh themselues, he did incourage them with faire speeches, and promises of an inestimable booty. That being said, he marched foreward. But at the comming forth of the Castle he found certaine footmen, who with the Artillery thought to haue staied him, but their attempt was

in vaine, for hauing put them to flight, he came downe furiously vpon the voide place where captaine Burlettes palace stood, where the Venetian forces being close ioyned together, did attend him with great boldnesse: and there ioyning, they fought furiously on either side for a long time, the one fighting for their owne safety, and the others for glory, and for desire of the spoile and sack of so rich a City.

The Venetians at the last, hauing brauely defended themselues were driuen* 1.237 from the place. For the French being victors, did by force driue their enemies before them in all places, not going to pillage▪ vntill they were wholy become Masters of the city, following the command of Gaston of Foix who had so en∣ioyned [ 10] them before their comming downe. Of the French side there died many* 1.238 foot, and some number of men at armes, but more then eight thousand of the e∣nemies were slaine, and great numbers of them taken prisoners, amongst whom were Andre Gritti and Antonio Iustiniano with many others. Count Lodowicke Auogare and a sonne of his being taken among the rest were beheaded in the pub∣like place of execution.

Gaston of Foix preserued the honour of the Nuns, but their goods were pilla∣ged, and those who had retired into their Couents and other Churches, were the captaines booties. In this manner fel the City of Bressia into extreame misery, which in dignity and nobility did not giue place to any other of Lombardy, and [ 20] * 1.239 which did for wealth surpasse all the rest, (excepted Milan). It was sackt seuen whole daies together. The newes of this reprisal being come to Venice did greatly trouble the whole City, who thought they should be no more able to enterprise any thing, condemning chiefly the small speed that was made to send necessary forces and munition to the Prouidator Gritti, the which was cause of that losse. The Senate forthwith consulted about the repairing of their army, sent to leauy two thousand foot in Candy, and a great number of Stradiots in Al∣bania. Two hundred pound weight of gold was sent to the viceroy of Naples, as had beene promised. The foot which were not at Bressia, and the horse-men which escaped, together with those who were stript and disarmed came to Vincenza. [ 30] Instinian and Gritti were sent prisoners to Milan.

The Pope vnderstanding that the French had recouered Bressia, councelled and perswaded, euen with threats, that they should accord with the Emperour. And certaine commissioners beeing assembled for that purpose, perceiuing the great difficulties which were made in the treaty of peace, it was propounded to make truce for a while in the meane time, during which they might with more ease deliberate on the Articles of peace and other reasonable conditions.

According to this aduice, truce was concluded at Rome in the Popes pre∣sence* 1.240 betwixt the commissioners, on condition that the Senate should at two pai∣ments giue foure hundred pound of gold to Maximillian, to the which were [ 40] one hundred pound more added, to cause the Emperor to ratifie this agreement, the whole amounting to fiue hundred pounds of gold.

Gaston of Foix after the recouery of Bressia, hauing giuen order for his af∣faires, (for Bergamo which had rebelled, and all the other townes neere adioy∣ning had recalled the French) and refreshed his army which was wearied with so great and long trauaill, determined to goe and incounter with the confederates army, according to the commandement which hee had receiued from the King, which did expresly import, that with the greatest speed hee could, hee should march against them, whom h•…•…e heard to bee verie weake, and therefore he promised himselfe the victory, and being victorious, he should be∣seege [ 50] Rome and the Pope without any respect, to the end to free himself of so ma∣ny dangers which did threaten him: and for the diminution of his enuy, & encrease of his owne iustifications, he would haue that enterprise to be made in the name

of the councel of Pisa, which should depute a Legate to goe to the army.

Gaston of Foix departed from Bressia, and came to Finall, there for to gather to∣gether all the companies which were in Italy (those excepted who remained for the gard of the Cities) and from thence he went to Saint Georges on the Bolog∣nois, where there came to him three thousand Gascons, a thousand Pioners, and a thousand Picards which were newly sent him, being al choice soldiers. These be∣ing arriued, he found that he had with him fiue thousand Lanfequenets, fiue thou∣sand Gascons, and eight thousand, as well Italians as French, with one thousand* 1.241 sixe hundred launces. The Duke of Ferrara was to ioyne with him, with a hun∣dred men at armes, two hundred light horse and a great quantity of excellent [ 10] munition, because the Generall had left his at Finall, in regard of the bad waies. The Cardinall of Saint Seuerine being deputed Legate by the councell came likewise to the army.

Gaston of Foix marching in this equipage did burne with desire to meete the* 1.242 enemy and to fight with him, as well to satisfie the King as for his owne valour and prowesse: his meaning neuerthelesse was not to assaile him rashly, but only to trie if by approching nere to him he would cheerefully come to the battaile, in any place where the quallity of the sytuation might make them equall.

The enemies had an other intent, who thought it not safe for them to fight in an equall place, at least wise before the six thousand Swisses whom they [ 20] expected were arriued: as also for that the King of Arragon had commanded them to abstaine as much as they could from fight, for diuers considerations by him alleaged.

The two armies did often change places, marching continually nere toge∣ther in good order, the artillery going before and their faces turned towards the enemies, as if euery houre they were to beginne the fight. Gaston receiued a new commandment from the King to hasten the battaile. Wherevnto his King was incited so soone as he vnderstood the truce made betwixt the Emperour and the Venetians. But Gaston perceiuing that hee did winne nothing by coasting the enemies in this manner, in regard of the commodiousnesse of the [ 30] Cities of Romagnia, whether they still retired, determined to beseege Rauenna* 1.243 wherein Marke Antony Colonna lay for the Pope with fifteene hundred foot, and fiue hundred horse, thinking that the enemies would not suffer such a city to be lost before their faces, and by that meanes occasion might be offered to fight with them in an equall place. He came and lodged betwixt Contignola, and Grana•…•…olla, then at Rassi, hauing driuen them thence who kept it, and from thence the day following he came and encamped nere to the walles of Rauenna betwixt the two Riuers; namely, Ronca, and Mo•…•…tona betwixt which the towne is seated. He possessed the space which is betwixt the one and other riuer.

The next day he caused his ordnance to be planted, and by all meanes hasted [ 40] the battery, that he might come to the assault before the enemies (whom he knew were remooued) should arriue, as well for to get the towne, as in regard of his great want of victuals, by reason of the Venetian vessels which lay at Fiquerolles, and at the mouth of the Channel which falleth into the Po, which stopped those that came both from Lombardy and Ferrara.

This was the reason why he resolued to giue the assault the same day, al-be∣it he knew that there was no reasonable breach made, and that he could not en∣ter but by ladders: those likewise which were sent thither, being out of hope to force the Citty: and perceiuing themselues to be greatly hindred by a Culue∣ryne, hauing fought for the space of three houres, retired with the losse of [ 50] three hundred foote, and of certaine men 〈◊〉〈◊〉 armes, and as many in a man∣ner were hurt. But the retreat was no soon•…•… made, but they descried the con∣federates armie co•…•…ming to the relee•…•…e of the Towne, the which marched along the riuers side.

So soone as the French had discouered them, they arose in armes and placed themselues vnder their enseignes, hauing in great hast with drawne their ordi∣nance from before their walles, the which they turned towards the enemies: who imagining onely by the shew of their army, that Ramenna was suffi•…•…iently relee∣ued, thinking that the French durst not assaile it they being so neere, they encam∣ped within three miles of Rauenna, at a place called Moulinachia, which they forth-with fortified, with as deepe a trench as the shortnesse of the time would permit them. The French were long in councell, to know what was to bee done, either to assaill the Citty, or the enemies. In the end after diuers and sundry o∣pinions, they resolued to goe and assaile the enemy, so soone as it was day. Which [ 10] * 1.244 Gaston of Foix gladly approuing, hee caused the same night a bridge to bee cast ouer the Ronca, and to li•…•…ell the causeis on all sides, to make the waies easie. There by day breake, being Easter day, hee prepared to march against the enemies; and hauing encouraged his soldiors, with a more eloqu•…•…, then Martiall oration hee enforced the enemies by the shot of his ordnance, to come forth of their tren∣ches,* 1.245 and to ioyne fight with him, where the con•…•…ederates were so delt with, for the space of six 〈◊〉〈◊〉, •…•…hat the fight lasted, as not being able to make any more resistance, they turned their backes, and among others the Viceroy and Caranagio were the formost, carrying away with them, a squadron in a manner whole and vnbroken: so as the French remained masters of the field. [ 20]

But because the Spanish Infantery made a soft retreate, and in god order, Gas∣ton* 1.246 of Foix was desirous to breake them, and going furiously to assaill them with a squadron of horse, hee was on a sodaine enuironed by the enemies, and being beaten from his horse, was slaine by the push of a pi•…•…e, thrust into his flanke. The Lord of Lau•…•…rec lay by him, in a manner dead, being wounded in twenty places, but being brought to Ferrara, he was there healed.

The Generalls death caused the Spaniards to escape without any empedi∣ment, the residew of their army being dispersed and put to flight, and their ba∣gage, enseignes and artillery taken. The prisoners were the Popet Legat, Fabri∣cio Colo•…•…, Pedro of Naua•…•…e, the Marquis of Palu, Bito•…•…o, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉▪ with ma∣ny [ 30] other Barrons, and great Lords. The brute was that there died on both sides, eighteene thousand men, one third part French, and the two thirds of the con∣federats. But the losse of the victorious was greater, without comparison, by reason of the death of the Generall, of •…•…s of Alegre, •…•…ters French Gentle∣men and Almaine Captaines, to whose valour the victory was partly ascribed.

The victors beeing returned to their Campe, those of the Citty sent word that they would yeeld, but whilest they c•…•…pitulated, the Lan•…•…equentes, & Gascons perceiuing the walls to be carelessely kept, did enter it at the breach which was* 1.247 made before the bataile, and •…•…ade cruell spoyle, for despight of the losse which [ 40] they had sustayned in the battaile: but they could not take the Castle, whether Marke Antony C•…•…llonna was •…•…tyled, which hee afterward yeelded, vpon condi∣tion •…•…o haue their goods and liues saued.

The Venetians hauing newes of this losse, sent word to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 whome they kept in pay with a thousand foote in Flamin•…•…, to gard, and defend the lands of the Church. The Vi•…•…y neuer •…•…aid till hee came to A•…•…coha, where hee vsed meanes to renew his army, promis•…•…g to him selfe, that beeing ioyned with the Swisses, hee would easily driue the French forth of •…•…taly, so as e∣uery one would employ him-selfe in that busienesse. The Venet•…•…ns beeing aduertised of his inten•…•…, sent to comfort him for his losse and to offer him al [ 50] ayde and releefe by Anto•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉, who brought him a good summe of mony from the Senate, the li•…•…e also did King 〈◊〉〈◊〉 A•…•…ssador which lay at Venice.

The French Army being daunted with the death of their Generall, remained within 4. miles of Rauenna, attempting nothing, expecting the kings pleasure. In the meane space newes being brought to Rone, of the losse of the battaile, all the Cardinalls came forth-with to the Pope, earnestly entreating him to accept* 1.248 of peace with the French King, the which they assured him hee might obtaine, on honest conditions, they seeing no other remedy for all these daungers, but peace onely. The Ambassadors of the King of Arragon, and the Signury of Ve∣nice insisted on the contrary, giuing him to vnderstand that matters were not so desperate, nor the army so much decayed, but that it might easily bee restored in short space, without any greate expence, with many other very pertinent reasons, [ 10] * 1.249 to induce the Pope to their opinion. But he continewed in very great doubt; for on the one side, hatred and disdaine against the French did possesse him, and on the other, feare, and danger. Wherevpon hee answered the Cardinalls that he would make peace with the French King, and yet it was not with that resolution, which might giue any certaine hope: and last of all when as Iulius of Medicis a Knight of Malta, who was after-wards pope, came to him from the Cardinall of Medicis, and had fully informed him, how greatly the French were weakened, by their Generalls death, and of diuers other particularities of the French army,* 1.250 which did much recomfort him; And bringing him into the Consistory, he cau∣sed him to rehearse the selfe same things to the Cardinalls, who neuerthelesse [ 20] did perseuer in their desire of peace, the which though in words hee made shew (to please them) to accept of, hee had neuerthelesse resolued not to graunt, but vpon the last extremity, and rather to leaue Rome, hoping that his cause would bee maintayned by the armes of Christian Princes.

But so soone as hee vnderstood that the Lord of La Palisse, who commanded the French army, after the death of Gaston of Foix, was called into the Dutchy of Milan by the Generall of Normandy, for feare of the Swisses comming, and that he was with the army departed out of Ro•…•…gina, he found him-selfe freed of the doubt and feare which hee was in, concerning the affaires of Rome, where∣by hee was more then before confirmed in his obstinacy, albeit the Legate of [ 30] the councell •…•…arried still in Romagnia, with three hundred lances, three hundred light horse, six thousand foote, and eight peeces of ordnance.

Now the Pope beeing greatly confirmed by that which hath beene already said, and by the great hopes which the King of Arragon gaue him, so soone as bee had intelligence of the losse of the battaile of Rauenna, promising to send him Gonsaluo the great Captaine into Italy with new supplies and likewise by the commission which the King of England had sent to the Cardinall of Yorke,* 1.251 to enter into the league, hee did openly reiect peace, and pronounced in open Consistory a Monitory, against the French King, if hee did not release the Cardinall of Medicis, whome hee kept prisoner in Milan, where hee was [ 40] honorably vsed.

The Swisses in the meane time, who stood badly affected to the French King, and did wonderfully hate him, beeing assembled at Coire, a city of the Grisons there antient confederats, marched from thence to Trent, (the Emperour to collour the matter with the King, saying that hee could not stoppe their passage, in regard of the antient confederacy which he had with them.)

From Trent they came vpon the Verona Territory, where the Venetians army expected them, who together with the Pope did contribute for their pay, They were in number more then sixe thousand, though no more were demaunded: For the hatred which they did heare to the French King was [ 50] * 1.252 so greate, as contrary to their custome, they did p•…•…tiently endure al difficulties, and namely, they ca•…•… from home hauing receiued only one florin of Ryne a peece: wheras in time before they would not march for the Kings seruice, vnlesse they

had beene promised many paies and their Captains presented with sondry guifts.

La Palisse comming first of all with the Army to Pontoglio to stop their pas∣sage, thinking that they would come that way into Italy, perceiuing afterward their meaning to be otherwise, came and incamped at Chastillon of the stirrop, not being assured whether they would come downe into the Dutchy of Millan or els march towards Ferrara. It was certainely thought that they would haue held on the way towards Ferrara according to the Popes directions, had not a let∣ter which the Lord of La Palisse sent to the General of Normandy, been in•…•…ercep∣ted by mishap, the which fell into the hands of the Venetian Stradiots; by which he sent him word how his affaires stood and that it would be a hard matter to re∣sist [ 10] * 1.253 them, if they should turne towards the Dutchy of Millan. This letter made them change their determination, and caused the Cardinall of Syon, the chiefe motiue of this warre, with the Captaines, to resolue to enterprise that which their enemies most feared (as was perceiued by that letter). Therefore they came to Villafranca to ioyne with the Venetian army, vnder the command of Iohn Paul Bailon, which was of foure hundred men at armes, eight hundred light horse, and sixe thousand foote with peeces of Ordnance, as well for battery, as for the field.

La Palisse, who in all had not aboue seauen thousand foote and a thousand lances, did with the Captaines determine wholy to forsake the field, and to looke [ 20] * 1.254 to the defence of the townes of most importance, till such time as those great nombers of Suisses should be wasted, or else some fresh supplies might come to them from France to make head against them. Wherevpon he did put into Bres∣sia two thousand foote, one hundred and fiftie lances and a hundred men at armes of the Florentines: into Crema fiftie lances and a thousand foote, and into Bergamo, a thousand foote, and a hundred Florentine men at armes; he* 1.255 brought the residew of the army to Pontuico, which consisted of six hundred lan∣ces, two thousand French foot, and foure thousand Lansquenets. But the next day letters came from the Emperour, who commanded the Lansquenets forthwith to abandon the French Kings seruice: they not daring to disobey, de∣parted [ 30] the very same day, because they were all his subiects.

La Palisse despayring (by reason of the Lansquenets departure) of beeing able a∣ny longer to defend the Dutchy of Milan, did in great hast retire to Pisquetona. The Venetians in the meane time hauing already taken Valegia and Piscara, did still with that Army winne the Contrey as they went along. Those of Cremona* 1.256 being wholly forsaken did yeeld to the Cardinall of Syon and gaue him a good somme of money, to the end that the Suisses should not enter into their Citty. The like did Carauagio and Soncino, wherein the Cardinall of Syon placed his owne people in Garrison, in steed of deliuering it to the Venetians, as it was men∣tioned in the treaty of the League. All other townes neere to the riuer Adda did [ 40] yeeld to the Venetians, the like did Bergamo with her territory, by reason that La Palisse, had recalled his companies which lay there to ioyne them to the army.

La Palisse forsooke Pisquetona, and went and crossed the Riuer Adda, hoping to keepe the enemies from passing the riuer if the footmen which they made ac∣count to leauy had arriued▪ But through want of money to pay them, none were* 1.257 raised, wherevpon he retired to Saint Angello, and the day following to Pauia, determining to stay there. But after that Triuulcio came thither to him, and had shewed him the vanity of his opinion, and how that it was impossible to hould back so great a ruine, seeing there were no footmen in the Army, nor meanes to wage new, as well for the shortnesse of the time, as for that there was no money [ 50] to pay them, he went and made a bridge ouer the Po, at a place where it is most narrow, to the end that the companies might more commodiously passe holding on their way towards Ast.

So soone as the French had passed the Riuer Adda, Loda yeelded to the confe∣derates

who being come to Pauia, beganne to batter the Castle. The French like-wise did soone abandon it, and came to the stone bridge, which is ouer the riuer The∣sin, fearing least it should be surprised, hauing but that place alone, whereby to escape from Pauia. All the French men, with certaine Lancequenets, who were not departed with the rest, being come forth of Pauia, the Citt•…•… promised to pay a great summe of mony to auoyde the sack thereof, Milan had already done the like, compounding for a great summe, and all other townes, (Bi essia and Coma excepted) did with great desire doe the same.

All matters were gouerned in the name of the holy league (for so all men cal∣led it,) and all the profit fell to the Swisses, which caused many more of that na∣tion [ 10] to come downe into Lombardy, and to vnite them-selues with the first. In* 1.258 this change, Parma and Placentia were giuen to the Pope. The Swisses •…•…eazed on Lucarna and the Grisons on Voltolina and Chiauenna, Iano Fregossa, by the Venetians aide, in whose army he serued, went to Genoa, and so handled the mat∣ter, as the French gouernor being expelled, it reuolted and created him Duke.

In the like manner all the townes and Castles of Romagnia did returne to the Pope. Bolognia like-wise yeelded to his officers, after the Bentiuoles being de∣priued of all hope, had forsaken it. The Cardinall of Medicis had already before then escaped, by meanes of some stirre which hapned of purpose, as hee entred into a boate at the passage of the Po, wherevpon hee was taken from the French [ 20] who kept him, who intended flight rather then resistance. The Senate in the meane time, being desirous to recouer Bressia and Coma, solicited the Cardinall of Syon to come with his troupes and their army to beseege those townes, who making no hast, beeing loth to encrease the Venetians greatnesse, came in the end and encamped before Bressia, neere to Saint Iohns gate, battering at one time both the towne and Castle, whether the Viceroy came to them with the Spanish army. The Lord of Aubigni who was within it, perceiuing that in the end he could not choose but deliuer it, thought it best to yeeld it, together with the Castle, ra∣ther to the Viceroy then to the Venetians, compounding with him, that all [ 30] * 1.259 the souldiors within should depart with liues and goods. The French that were at Legnaga followed the same councell. Crema did other-wise which was be∣seeged by Ranze de la Cere, with a part of the Venetians forces, vnto whome, Bene∣dict Cribario (being corrupted by guifts, and vpon promise to be made a gentle∣man of Venice) did yeeld the towne by the consent of the Lord De Duras gouer∣nor of the Castle, the which he would not doe to Octanian Sforza, Bishop of Lodi; for & in the name of the future Duke Maximilian Sforza, being come thither for that purpose, with foure thousand Swisses In these interims, the Bishop of Gurcia as Lieutenant to the Emperor went to Rome, who being receiued with all honor they beganne to treat of the establishment of the common businesse, and how to [ 40] root out particular strife and contentions, to the end that Italy being vnited to∣gether* 1.260 might resist the French King: and the hardest matter of all this was, the agreement so often treated of betwixt the Emperor and the Venetians: For the Bishoppe of Gurcia demanded to haue Verona and Vincenza, to remaine to the Emperor, and the other townes to the Venetians, for which they should present∣ly pay to Maximilian two hundred thousand florins of the Rhyne, and thirty thou sand for euer after, yearely, in manner of rent. The Venetians would not pay rent for those townes, which they had enioyed for so many yeares, as belonging vnto* 1.261 them, nor consent to giue mony, and much lesse to deliuer Vincenza, for diuers reasons by them alleadged. The Pope did what he could to attone them, now in∣citing [ 50] the Venetians, then entreating them, & sometimes threatning. The King of Arragons Ambassadors did all they could; the like also did the Swisses. In the end the Bishop of Gurcia persisting in his demand, and the Venetians in their refu∣sall, as well of Vincenza as of the summe of mony, the Pope forsooke them, pro∣testing to their Ambassadors that he should be enforced to pursue their Republick

with spirituall and temporall armes, and made a league with the Emperor, to the end that he might alow of the Councell of Lateran, and disallow the Conuenticle of Pisa. The Spanish Ambassador would not enter into that League, saying; that he had no commission so to doe from his King.

The consederacy being contracted, the Bishop of Gurcia at the next Session of* 1.262 the councell of Lareran, did in the Emperours name adhere to the Councel, where he affirmed in the presence of all men, that the Emperour had neuer consen∣ted to the Conuenticle of Pisa, reiecting all those who had vsed his name. This being doone, the Bishop of Gurcia tooke his leaue, that he might be with Maxi∣milian* 1.263 Sforza at such time as he should take possession of the Dutchy of Millan [ 10] the which he did After his entry, the Viceroy went and beseeged the fort of Tresa vpon the riuer Adda, which was yeelded vnto him vpon condition that they within it might depart with their goods.

The confederacy made at Rome, had not wholly broken off the hope of a∣greement betweene the Emperour and the Venetians, and therfore the Pope sent Iacomo Stafilea Auditor of the Rote to Venice, to entreat the Senate to agree with Maximilian, and to enter into the league, saying; That to his great gree•…•…e he had forsaken them, the which, many taking in bad part, Said that they were assured that it would cause them to enter into League with the French, and by that meanes to recall them a new into Italy; but that he for his part did so much presume on [ 20] * 1.264 them, as he knew they would neuer do it: and in regard of these matters beeing troubled with sondry thoughtes, he fell sick, and his health dayly empairing, not being able to eate or sleepe, he deceassed the two and twentith day of February in the yeare 1513.

Now the Venetians hauing determined before the Popes death to contract* 1.265 League and alliance with the French, according to the motion made by King Lewis to Andrew Gritti, prisoner at that time in France, they resolued (the matter hauing a long time been debated in councell) to send one of purpose into France to treat of this businesse with the King: and to this end they named Lodouico Pie∣tro Secretary of the Councell of Tenne. [ 30]

Hee beeing departed from Venice, and onward on his way, they had newes of the Popes death: but for all that they did not call him back, not knowing who* 1.266 should be his successor, and least of all what his affection towards them might be.

The Secretary beeing come into France, the King did enlarge Andre Gritti, and did forthwith conclude the league with him on condition that Cremona and the contrey of Giradade should belong to the state of Milan, and that the Venetians should haue Bressia, Bergamo and Crema, (the King making ouer all his right to them, which he could pretend to those Citties:) That they should be bound to aide one another; and to hazard together one selfe same fortune, vntill the King* 1.267 should recouer the whole state of Milan: and that likewise the Republicke should [ 40] be restored to the entier possession of whatsoeuer it did enioy on the firme land: And lastly that al prisoners on either side should be set at liberty, and the fugitiues restored to their goods and contrey.

In the meane time, after the Popes death, the Cardinalls entred quietly into the* 1.268 Conclaue, and did the seauenth day following with a generall consent choose for Pope, Iohn, Cardinall of the title of Saint Mary in Dominica, of the most illustrious family of Medicis, of seauen & thirty years of age, which was a strange matter, and contrary to the custome: He tooke vpon him the name of Leo the tenth. This election was pleasing to all men, and cheefely to the Venetians, who did euer greatly affect that family: by reason whereof, the Senate did hope easily [ 50] to draw him with them into this league, confederacy and alliance. But Leo hauing obtained the Pontificall dignity, found himselfe to bee assailed with sondry thoughts, reuoluing in his minde diuers matters, as well belonging to warre as to peace.

His antient habit and manner of life from his youth, did excite him to embrace peace and quietnesse, especially now when he saw him-selfe established in the su∣preame dignity: so as the n•…•…e of warre, in regard of dangers past was displeasing and odious to him: And on the other side, hee found no great safety in peace, in the middest of armes, and confusion of all things, as also, because the memory of his predecessor, who by armes had much encreased the de•…•…aines of the Church, did prouoke him to warre. But by taking armes, hee knew not to which side hee* 1.269 should rather incline: For the returne of the French into Italy did not like him, in regard of the wrongs and greeuances which he in particular had receiued by them, and his predecessor like-wise, and which did still threaten him, in regard of [ 10] the councell of Pisa, which was transferred to Lyons. On the other side, the French; confederate with the Venetians, did in such sort daily encrease, in strength and reputation, as hee knew not by what meanes▪ to oppose himselfe against such warlike attempts.

Leo then being thus troubled with sundry thoughts, did oftentimes change his determination. At the beginning of his papacy, he sent a breefe to all Chris∣tian Princes, exhorting them to peace, and vnity: and the more easily to induce them there vnto, hee determined not to shew him-selfe more affected to one side then to another. Yet neuerthelesse, perceiuing at the same-time that there was no greate hope of peace, he beganne to prouoke the Venetians, against the [ 20] French, vsing meanes to perswade them to league them-selues with him selfe, the Florentines, the Swisses, and the Duke of Milan, for the liberty of Italy. The Venetians would not consent to his proposition, thinking it to bee a∣gainst reason to abandon for vaine hopes, an alliance already made with the* 1.270 French; and also for that considering matters more iudiciously, they percea∣ued that at the first hee promised some apparent liberty: but that dangers did still encrease, and that they went about to throw all Italy head-long into perpetu∣all bondage.

With these discourses did the Venetians maintayne their opinion, soliciting the French King in the meane time to make the greatest hast hee could with [ 30] his army into Italy, to surprise the townes, before they were man'd with gar∣risons, putting him in mind, that the victory of an enterprise, dependeth cheefely on speed. The French King beeing moued by these remonstrances, did wholy* 1.271 bend his actions to this warre, and to cut off all lets that might hinder him there∣in, he made truce for one whole yeare with Fernand, King of Arragon, onely for that which concerned matters forth of Italy.

And as for the English, whome hee vnderstood were making great pre∣parations for their comming into France, hee made no great reckoning thereof, hoping in short space to driue Sforza from the state of Milan, and to returne victorious with his Army into France, time enough to resist their [ 40] attempts.

Now the Rendezuous for all the Kings troupes was at Suza, from thence to march with ease into Italy, vnder the conduct of the Lord of La Tremo∣uille, albeit the warre was managed by Iohn Iames▪Trivulce, a man of great repute, for his excellent skill in martiall discipline. The report* 1.272 was that there were twenty thousand soldiours in the Kings Army. The Ve∣netians had for their parts eight thousand foot-men, twelue hundred men at armes, and fiue hundred light horse, with greate store of munition and ord∣nance: Dominico Contaren, and Andre Loredan were prouidators of the army* 1.273 and Bartilmeo Aluiana Generall in the Count Pettillans sted, who was [ 50] deceased.

Hee beeing come to the Army, which lay on the bankes of Adice, sent to the Senate to know if hee should passe on farther whilst the enemies were vnprouided of all aide and succour, and their townes without garrisons.

The Senate beeing assembled therevpon, after •…•…undry opinions, decreed, that their Armie should not passe the Po, nor Adda, referring the rest to the pleasure and discretion of their General, according as he should think it fit. For the Senate had as yet receiued no certaine newes, whether the French Armie had passed the Alpes, wherevpon they thought it not discretion to abandon their state to the enemies mercy, or to send their Army into any place, from whence, (if matters should fall out vnfortunately) they should not bee able to with∣draw it.

But Aluiana beeing full of courage, and desirous to exploite some gallant [ 10] enterprise, if occasion should fitly serue, resolued without delay t•…•… passe ouer, and first of all tooke his way directly towards Verona, hoping for to winne it. Pandolfo Malateste commanded for the Emperour in one of the Fortes of the Citty: Hee with certaine of the Townsmen, had practised to giue him* 1.274 entrance: But the next day, fiue hundred Lansquenets entred Verona by the Riuer Adicé, and the matter beeing discouered, Aluiana perceiuing that the Citty could not bee easily forced, and that it would aske much time to besiege it, did on a sodaine march towards Cremona, and by the way made him-selfe maister of Valegia, and of the Forte of Piscara two strong and commodious* 1.275 places for the Venetians, in respect of their situation. [ 20]

Vpon report of Aluiana his comming, a great tumult was raised in Cremona: those which were of the contrary faction, forsooke the towne, and the others without contradiction did receiue Aluiana into the citty, who being entred, he did sodainly disarme Caesar Fieramosca, who lay there in garrison with three hundred horse, and fiue hundred foot of the Duke of Milans. Hee needed not to spend any* 1.276 time for the recouery of the castle, by reason it was euer held for the French King: Wherevpon hee forth with erected the French Kings banner, saying; That hee did receiue the Citty, for, and in the name of the French King, for whom Theodore Triuulce his Ambassador was there present in the Venetian Armie. Hee went afterwards to Pisquetona, Sonzino, Lodi, and other places neere [ 30] adioyning, hauing already, by the change of Cremona, erected the French Kings Banners.

But on the Verona and Vincentine territories, the Venetians affaires were differently managed. For so soone as Aluiana was departed with his Armie, Rocandolphe Captaine of the Lansquenets, and Frederick Gonsaluo of Bossola comming forth of Verona with sixe hundred horse, and two thousand foote, went to Saint Boniface, where Aluiana had left vnder the command of Sigismond Cauallo, and Iohn Fortino, three hundred light horse, and six hundred foote: who beeing scattered heere and there, vpon newes of the enemies comming, fled to* 1.277 Colognia, and were so neerely pursued by the Lansquenets, who entered the towne by force, as they were all taken prisoners, and the towne beeing sacked and [ 40] burnt, they returned to Verona laden with spoile.

The enemies for this exploit waxing more prowd and insolent, foure thou∣sand foote, and fiue hundred horse, sallied forth of Verona for to assaile Vincen∣za: whereof Iohn Paull Manfron, the Citties Gouernour, hauing intelligence, hee* 1.278 caused great numbers of peasants on a sodaine to enter into the Citty, and did so carefully prouide for the rest, as the enemies hope beeing frustrate, ha∣uing spoyled the countrey round about, they were enforced to returne to Verona.

But during these exploites on the Veronois and Vincentine territories, the [ 50] whole Dutchie of Milan was in vprore and Armes: There was no Towne, Vil∣lage, not Castle, but did rise and take armes vpon the comming of the Veneti∣an* 1.279 Armie, vpon the report that was spredde, that the French had passed the Alpes: for albeit that the people of Milan, wearied with the French gouernment;

had desired the returne of the Sforzas their antient Lords: yet neuer•…•…helesse, hauing not by their returne obtained the liberty and freedome which they hoped for, but on the contrary all discommodities and charges, they changed their mindes, and desired the returne of the French. Many likewise, enemies to the quiet of other poore banished men, or mooued by the diuersity of factions, did fauour the French. In regarde whereof the Earle of Man•…•…oc, sonne to Iohn Iames Triuulce, riding vp and downe the Champaine countrey of the Dutchy of Mi∣lan, to stirre them vp to commotions, found it no hard matter to make them to reuolt and to take armes.

Maximillian Sforza beeing daunted thereat, not knowing whereon to resolue, [ 10] * 1.280 perceiuing all things to tend to his ruine, thought it most expedient for his safe∣ty and escape, and for the tryall of his latest fortune, to retire with certaine horse to Nouara, where he vnderstood some Suisses were arriued, resoluing there to tarry for the rest, who in great numbers were comming down for the defence of his state.

Those of Milan, seeing them-selues to bee without garrison, and with∣out a Captaine, that their well fortified Castle held for the French, and that the Venetians Army did approach, some of them beeing stirred vp with hope o•…•… better fortune, others with feare and distrust; thought it fit to yeeld to the French, and to that end, to send an Ambassador to the Venetian Generall; who hauing [ 20] made a bridge ouer the Adda, threatned that hee would shortly bee with them. The French on the other side, (with whom Andrè Gritti was in quality of Am∣bassador for the Signory) entred Italy tooke diuerse townes and castles, some by assault, and others by a voluntary redition: so as the state of Milan beeing en∣uaded* 1.281 by two mighty armies, French and Venetian, was in short space reduced vnder the French gouernment: Two Citties onely held out for Maximillian, Nouara, and Coma.

The Venetians, for these so fortunate attempts, did promise to them-selues a glorious end of this warre: for their armie had gotten such reputation by the the taking of Cremona, as Ranze de Cera going with a troope of Soldiers to re∣couer [ 30] Bressia, it was yeelded vnto him vpon the first summons; by reason that the Spanish Soldiers, who lay there in garrison, beeing frighted at his com∣ming,* 1.282 retired into the Castle. There was but one onely thing which could cut off the hope which all men had conceiued of the victory, and that was the com∣ming* 1.283 downe of the Suisses. For the common report was, that the Suisses had with such affection entertained the protection and safegard of Duke Maximili∣ans state, as it was certainly thought that they would omit nothing which might further the conseruation thereof.

This Nation was at the same time very famous for their exact obseruation of martiall discipline, and they could by no meanes swallow the contempt and dis∣grace [ 40] * 1.284 wherein King Lewis held them, at such time as hee sent to renew the league with them (as hath beene said) hauing more esteemed a little ouer-plus of mo∣ney, then their friendship; as also because the desire of gaine did prouoke them therevnto, hauing seene their fellowes to returne home from other warres victors and loden with wealth.

Now these Suisses hauing assembled their generall Councell, did all with one consent resolue to make warre on the French, and they proceeded therein with such earnestnesse, as the most of them, contrary to their custome, en∣rolled themselues for very small pay, diuerse also without any pay at all, and in a short time after, they leuyed a great Army, both of horse and foote, [ 50] which beganne to come downe into the Dutchie of Milan, one company after an other.

The newes of their comming downe, did at the first amaze the French,

in regard of the recent remembrance of matters brauely executed by them: But when they considered that they brought no cauallery with them, nor victualls, artillery, nor ought else fit for such an enterprise, they thought it best not to en∣force such enemies, who came rather to steale then to fight, being so vnprouided of all warlike necessaries, as they assured themselues that their Army would short∣ly dissolue it selfe, as it had done at other times, and would returne home againe, by reason of the want of all things.

The French therefore contemning them in this manner, hauing left a strong garrison in Alexandria, came and encamped before Nouara. Their intent was to trye if they could winne those Suisses by money, rather then by force, and to [ 10] practise with them for money to deliuer Maxmillian Sforza into their hands, as the same nation had done by his Father Lodouico Sforza in the same place. And if this should not fall out, they thought it no hard matter to take that Towne, the winning whereof, as they thought, would bee the ending of the warre.

But the wise and well experienced Captaines did deride these designes and vaine imaginations, and did blame the French, who insteed of assailing the Spa∣nish Armie, and breaking it, which they might easily haue done, did busie them∣selues in besieging Nouara, and employing all their forces there, which was di∣rectly against Gritti his aduise, who did many times put the French Captaines in [ 20] minde of the fault which they committed, in not first of all assailing the Spani∣niards, who seemed to bee the enemies chiefe prop. In regarde whereof the Se∣nate thinking it fitte to bee done, had commanded their Generall to make a bridge ouer Adda, causing it to bee giuen forth, that hee would presently with the whole Army passe ouer and ioyne with the French, to the end that the Spa∣niards, beeing mooued by this report, might not alone abstaine from ayding the Suisses, but thinking how to escape, might bee enforced to returne to Naples.* 1.285 But the French trifling the time vainely before Nouara, brake all these sound de∣terminations, and found them-selues to bee entangled with many difficulties: be∣cause the rumor dayly encreased, that of a certaine great ayde was comming to the besieged, the which did make their enterprise more difficult: And as their [ 30] discamping from thence, would greatly blemish their reputation, and encrease the enemies boldnesse, euen so their long stay there was dangerous and vnprofi∣table. And therefore diuerse Captaines were of opinion to retire from those boggy places, and to goe into the Champaigne countrey, where their caualle∣ry, wherein their chiefe hope consisted, might bee employed and shew their va∣lour, councelling to goe and meete the enemies, promising vnto them-selues to obtaine the victory with ease, they comming so vnfurnished of all warlike preparations.

But the authority and opinion of Triuulcio did most preuaile, who thought it not fit to hazard the whole, on the vncertaine euent of a battaile, but by altering [ 40] their forme of warre, to retire two miles off from the Citty, neere to the Riuer Mora, to the end that being safely encamped, they might cut off the enemies vic∣tuals,* 1.286 and enforce them thereby to yeeld. The Campe being gone thus farre from the citty, certaine troopes of Suisses entred it without any empediment, where they were receiued with great ioy: and not loosing one minute of time, Captaine Motir, one of the chiefe of the bands, called them all into the market place of Nouara, where after he had encouraged them with most vehement speeches, hee* 1.287 resolued with them by a generall consent, to depart about midnight, and on a so∣daine, by the fauour of the night, to goe and assaile the French Campe, where∣vpon hee commanded them to goe to rest, and to refresh their bodies, and to bee ready when the drumme should call them.

This nation did neuer make a more bold and braue attempt, being a few against many, without horse and Artillery, against an Armie excellently well prouided of all necessaries. About midnight then they sallied with great fury forth

of Nouara, on the sixt day of Iune, in the yeare 1513. They were about ten•…•… thousand men, who were disposed and ordered in such manner, as seauen thou∣sand* 1.288 were appointed to assaile the ordnance, about which the Lansquenets were lodged, and the residue should march with their long pikes against the men at armes.

The French being come into that place, hauing continued the remainder of the day, and a part of the night in armes, betooke themselues heere and there to sleep (according to the report of the spies at Nouara) not doubting that any such ac∣cident would so soone befall them, hauing in no sort fortified their Campe. The* 1.289 tumult and confusion was very great vpon the Sentinels report of the enemies [ 10] comming. The Artillery began to play with great fury vpon those who came to assayle it, and did greatly hurt them. Triuulcio was lodged in the middest of the battaile, because Trimouille sought in the right wing, and Robert de la Marche on the left, each of them exhorting the Souldiers to doe well. The men at Armes did readily put them-selues in battaile, and the Lansquenets, who were followed by the other footmen, did on a sodaine place themselues in order. The Suisses notwithstanding that many of their fellowes fell downe dead round about them, did neuerthelesse, with marueilous boldnesse, marche forward vp∣on the ordnance, not •…•…esteeming present death, nor were danted at the death of* 1.290 those that fel downe at their feete, vntill that comming vnto the Artillerie, [ 20] the Lansquenets and they did charge one another with incredible fury, fighting with great rage, and yet neuer brake their order. All in generall did fight with great courage (the men at armes excepted) who stood still and did nothing, no perswasions, commandements, nor entreaties of the Lords, Triuulce and Trimouille beeing able to preuaile with them: beeing so affrighted, as they had no courage to charge the enemie, who stood before them, and the Suisses were well pleased with their standing still, and for that they came not on to the ayde of the footmen.

At the l•…•…st, the great boldnesse and valour of the Suisses, carryed it away, who* 1.291 hauing brauely wonne the ordnance, did turne it vpon the French whom they put to rout, the footmen as well as the men at armes doing nothing worthy of [ 30] prase. This is the famous battaile of Nouara, where they fought for the space of two houres, with great losse on both sides, but most of all on the French, which did afterward bring great calamity on the Venetians.

By this defeate of the French a great alteration followed in Italy, chiefly in those matters which concerned the Venetians. Gritti who was in the French ar∣my was likewise one that accompanied them in the flight, who beeing by no rea∣son able to perswade them to tarry at Alexandria or in Piedmont and not blot their reputation with so base and shamefull a flight, perceiuing their Armie to bee wholy broken, and knowing that hee could in so sort aduance the seruice of the Common-wealth, went to Sauona, and from thence to Genoa, then to [ 40] Luca, and so at last he came to Venice.

This victory caused Milan, with other townes which had openly shewed them-selues for the French, to send to begge pardon, which was granted* 1.292 them, on condition to paye the Suisses, vnto whom by right was due, not onely the profit, but the glory of the victory, purchased by their valour and bloud.

The Viceroy, who till then had still kept the Spaniards in their garrisons, and not shewed himselfe against the French nor Venetians, following the victors fortune, did on a sodaine crosse the Po, and marched towards Cremona (where [ 50] he knew the Venetian army lay) to assaile it. Wherof Aluiana hauing intelligence and how that in other places the people began to rise against them & the French, in Maximillians behalfe, attempting to cut off victuals and passage from them,

determined to leaue those confines, and to draw his Armie in safety from thence; the which the Senate vpon the report of the battailes losse, had commanded him to doe: but yet neuerthelesse, to retire in such manner, as his retreat might not sa∣uor of a manifest flight, least it should discourage his owne soldiers, and cause the enemies to become more audacious.

Aluiana being departed, and Cremona left naked of Souldiers, the Spaniard did forth▪with seaze on it, and wholy sackt it, because it had giuen entrance to the* 1.293 Venetian Army. Then sending ayde to Maximillian Sforza to Nouara, and to Octauian Fregosa at Genoa, against the Adorni, he brought the residue of his Ar∣my towards the Venetians confines, hauing crossed the riuer Adda, where with∣out [ 10] any difficulty hee tooke the Citties of Bressia and Bergamo. These Citties were taken in the Emperors name, and rated at certaine great summes of money, which being rigourously leuied, were destributed among the Spanish Soldiers.

Aluiana in the meane time, with all his forces remaining on the Veronois, be∣ing much discontented to see the great deseignes which hee had proiected to bee snacht forth of his hands, resolued on a great and difficult enterprise: for hauing wonne the towne of Legnaga, he left Iohn Paul Baillon at the siege of the Castle, with twelue hundred foot, and himselfe went speedily with the residue of the Ar∣mie to assaile Verona, to trye if hee could take it on the sodaine. Baillon hauing [ 20] made a breach in the forte of Legnaga, gaue a furious assault to it, and notwith∣standing the Spaniards resistance, it was taken by force, for which hee was greatly esteemed by the Senate.

This place beeing taken, was not able to beekept without a strong garrison,* 1.294 wherefore they resolued to dismantle and forsake it. Aluiana on the other side, being come before Verona, did assaile it on the weakest side neere to Saint Max∣ims gate, where hauing planted his ordnance, hee did with great fury batter the Tower of the gate, and the wall thereto adioyning, expecting in the meane time when any tumult would be raised in the Citty; and hauing beaten downe to the* 1.295 ground forty fathome of the wall, with the tower which fell downe likewise, hee gaue it a fierce assault. But three hundred horse, and three thousand Lansquenets [ 30] beeing in Verona, it was valiantly defended, by reason that the breach was very high on the townes side, which made the descent very vneasie. Which Aluiana perceiuing, and that the Veronois did in no sort stirre, contrary to his hope, he did with great speed retire his footmen and artillery from before the walls, as wholy despairing of the Victory, and returned the very same day to his quarter, from whence he came in the morning, hauing in that assault lost aboue two hundred of his soldiers.

In this exploit there was nothing worthy of praise, but his great speed, be∣cause* 1.296 he had done that in one day, which other Captains were scarce accustomed to doe in three or foure. After that, hee spoiled the Countrey, trying whether for [ 40] feare thereof he could enforce the Veronois to come to any agreement.

The end of the tenth Booke of the fourth Decade.

The Contents of the first Booke of the fifth Decade.

THE Spaniards take the Castle of Legnaga. Pope Leo reui∣ueth the treaty of peace betwixt the Emperor and the Veneti∣ans. Offers made to the French King by the Venetians. Lewis the French King submitteth himselfe to the Pope. The Venetians lose the towne and Castle of Pescara, Padua besie∣ged by the enemies; they soone quit it. The enemies make great spoile beeing come within fight of Venice. Aluiana comming forth of Padua with his Ar∣my, opposeth him-selfe against the enemies passage. The enemies are greatly perplexed, by reason they could not could not come to any place of safety. The enemies doe defeate, and put the Venetians to rout neere to Vincenza. The admirable constancy of the Venetian Senate after the losse of the battle. Prospero Co∣lonna doth secretly fauour the Venetians, by diuerting the siege from Treuiso. The Pope in person makes a Compromise, concerning the strife betwixt the •…•…mperor and the Venetians, which takes none effect. Selim King of Turkes, his warre against Acchomat his Brother. The difficulties which held back the Pope from procuring peace betwixt Christian Princes. The Countreys of Padua and Friul wholy ruined. Frangipan taketh Maran, by the treachery of a Priest. The Venetians are defeated before Maran. A great fire in the Cit∣ty of Venice. A new compromise made in the Popes person, concerning the same differences. Feltre taken and spoiled by the Almains, is opportunely releeued by the Venetians: The difficulties which were found a new in the accord be∣twixt the Emperor and the Venetians, with the Popes arbitratiue sentence. The Venetians defeate the Almaines in the Countrey of Friul. And lastly, the meanes which the Venetians vsed to recouer money for the entertainment of their Armie.

The First Booke of the fifth Decade of the Historie of Uenice.

WHilest the Venetians spoyled the Countrey about Verona to enforce the Veronois to some agreement, the Spanish army came forward, the Viceroy fearing, least thorough the bad dis∣position of those of Legnaga, Verona would open her gates to the Venetians, and therefore hee determined without delay to* 1.297 giue ayde to the Emperors affaires: which made him to crosse the Po at Stradella, & to encampe before the castle of Legnaga, which was guar∣ded [ 20] by two hundred and fifty foot, the which (notwithstanding the common opi∣nion that it might well haue held out for certaine dayes longer) he tooke by force, the Vènetian Prouidator being taken prisoner, with all the footmen which were not slaine at the assault. Aluiana hauing intelligence of the Spaniards approach,* 1.298 retired to Albera, on the farther side of the riuer Adicé, where he vsed all the means hee could to repaire his armie, the which hee afterward diuided for the gard of Treuiso, and Padua, sending Iohn Paul Baillon, Malatesta Sogliana, and the Knight de la Volpe to Treuiso, with two hundred men at armes, three hundred light horse, and two thousand •…•…oote, and himselfe went with the residue of the Armie to Padua.

During all these warlike exploits, and different practises, because the treaties of [ 30] * 1.299 the accord betwixt the Emperor and the Venetians were not wholy broken off, Pope Leo would haue them to be reuiued, thinking it an easie matter to obtaine of either of them that which hee pretended. For he supposed that the Emperor, beeing inuited by his occasions beyond the Mounts, would bee content to hear∣ken therevnto, that hee might with more ease recouer Burgondie for his sonnes sonne: and the Venetians much more, as well because they were daunted with the defeat of the French, as for that they knew that the French King (many dangers threatning his kingdome) could not for that yeare thinke on the affaires of Italy: and besides, he saw the Spanish Army at their doores, with which the companies that were in Verona went to vnite themselues: They were more ouer drawne [ 40] dry of money, vnprouided of Soldiers, and namely of footmen: and they were to make resistance alone, no sparke of light appearing, nor no ayde neere.

The Senate neuerthelesse made a most constant answer, That it would not* 1.300 hearken to any agreement, vnlesse Vincenza and Verona were yeelded to them. And on the otherside they solicited the French King, by their Ambassador Dan∣dulo, resident with him, to renue his army, and not to make shew of being danted for one onely losse hapned at Nouara: not to suffer those mountainer Suisses to boast for that they had driuen so mighty a king from his state, and rob'd him of the fruite of the purchased victory: That hee should boldly make choyce of* 1.301 counsell worthy his greatnesse, that the Venetians would not faile him in [ 50] any thing: That hee should make vse for his seruice, of their Armes, Soldiers, and meanes: that so long as life should remaine in their bodies, they would bee ready to vnder-goe all paine and danger, for the greatnesse of the Realme of France, and for the defence of their common cause.

King Lewis thanked the Venetians for their offers, and with faire words gaue* 1.302 them good hope, manifesting his desire to bee reuenged on his enemies, and to continue his friendship and confederacie with them: that the Frenck Kings cu∣stome was not to be chargeable: but to bring all aide, profit, and comfort to their friends and confederates. But because it was certainly thought, that the Realme of France, beeing assailed in sundry places: namely, by the King of England at Calais, and by the Emperor, and the Suisses in another place; it would bee hard for King Lewis, to intend for that whole yeare the affaires of Italy. The Venetians in the meane time did exhort him to free himselfe from all those difficulties which* 1.303 might in time to come hinder him from the conquest, of that which did belong [ 10] vnto him in Italy, and to purchase friends in the Countrey, especially the Pope.

The King, who desired nothing more then the vniting of his Realme with the Church, the which was earnestly craued by all his Court and subiects, did willing∣ly hearken to the Venetians intreaties and remonstrances, and resolued for the same purpose to send the Bishop of Marseilles his Ambassador to Rome, and perceiuing that hee could neuer hope for any alliance with the Pope in tempo∣rall matters, vnlesse he first of all did compose spirituall dissentions, hee gaue his Ambassador in charge to assure the Pope, that hee had broken and reuoked the Councell which hee had caused first to bee assembled at Lyons, and afterwards at* 1.304 Pisa: and that hee would not allow of any other Councell then that of Lateran, [ 20] which was then to be held in Rome: that he would euer (like to his Predecessors) greatly honor and reuerence the Popes name, and the sea Apostolick, and would be ready with his whole power to defend the Church of Rome.

The Venetians at the same time, sent ten Ambassadors to the Pope; for age and dignity, the chiefest of the Citty, for to giue him sufficient testimony of the good will and affection which they did beare to him: and had besides (the better to please him) enioyned Francisco Foscare their Ambassador resident with him to be present at euery S•…•…ssion of the Councell, in the name of the Republick, so soone as it should be begun at Saint Iohns of Lateran. But they found afterward that the Pope did not so greatly affect them as they imagined, because that beeing wholy [ 30] (since the rout at Nouara) freed from the feare of the French, insteed of dissem∣bling (which before hee had done) he began to discouer himselfe openly. He did aloud rebuke the Venetians and greatly taxe them, for recalling the French into* 1.305 Italy: and that they who ought to haue had most care of the liberty and quiet of the Prouince, were those who had stirred vp more troubles in it, and had reduced it vnder the seruitude of Barbarians. And to make them more odious, hee did ac∣cuse them to haue had a desire, if matters had fallen out prosperously, to recouer the Citties and Townes of Romagnia, which they had enioyed. The Pope did often vse these reproachfull speeches.

The Emperour in the meane time did solicite him to send him the aide promised [ 40] in the treaty passed with Iulius his Predecessor, and ratified by himselfe against the Venetians, in which demand the Emperour still persisting with great obstinacy; albeit it was i•…•…ksome vnto him (fearing least the French King would be displeased therewith) hee sent vnto him, (being not able to delay it any longer), vnder the conduct of Troilo Sauello, Achilles Tourella, Mutio Colonna, the nomber of* 1.306 soldiers which he craued, because he would not (by refusall) giue any signe, that he was not desirous to perseuer in the confederacy contracted with the late Pope, as also because it seemed vnto him that he had no correspondence with the Vene∣tians, who, besides, that their Army had after a sort behaued it selfe in hostile man: ner on the Parmesan and Placentine territories, at such time as Aluiana laye [ 50] neere to Cremona, had not chosen any Ambassador to make the oath of obedi∣ence to him, after the ancient custome, vntill the French, beeing vanquished, were gone forth of Italy.

Nothing did so much astonish the Venetians, as because the Pope had decla∣red himselfe their enemie. Yet neuerthelesse they hauing in his behalfe neuer failed in the reuerence and affection which they were bound to, (as himselfe did confesse it) they were perswaded that they might yet be receiued into his fauour, and make vse heereafter of his grace and frendship. Neuerthelesse, they did not alter their former determinations, but resolued to resist fortune as much as they might, and seeing themselues to be our of hope of peace, and that the nomber of their enemies encreased, they speedily beganne to prouide all thinges necessary to resist so many dangers. They made great leuyes of footmen as wel in Romaig∣nia as else where, they armed a great nomber of vessells, called home all those [ 10] * 1.307 which they had in Candy and other places, and with the same speed, they made great prouisions of victualls, munition and money.

Some of the Senate were of opinion to haue their nauall army to saile into Puglia, to assaile the sea townes, or at least to seeme to resent the many wronges which King Ferdinand without cause had done them. But hauing maturely considered how important a matter it was to prouoke so mighty a King, they re∣iected this proposition, as more couragious then discreet, as well in resp•…•…ct of his power, as for that he had alwaies made shew to councell the Emperour to peace. The Venetian Generall in the meane time being encamped on the banks of Adi∣ce,* 1.308 his espies aduertised him that the Spaniards had taken the way of Vincenza, de∣termining [ 20] to marche towards Padua, and that Cardona, with whom the Popes forces were vnited, came directly towards him with all his forces, he then thought fit to crosse the Riuer; as well to free himselfe from danger, as for to assure the Citties of Padua and Treuiso, and came and stayed at Mon∣tagnane. But so soone as hee had crossed rhe Riuer with his forces, the Ve∣netians affaires, who by reason of some prosperous and good successe, had begunne to bee re-established, did a new fall into decadence: For the Pol∣lesin of Rouigo, did forth-with yeeld to the enemy, and the other people of the countrey did likewise sodainly rise, because those of the Venetian iuris∣diction, perceiuing that the enemies did waxe strong, and did greatly molest [ 30] them, and that the Venetians on the contrary grew weake, and could not releeue* 1.309 them, all men in heapes ranne to the enemies. Rance de Cere alone deserued great commendation, who remaining euer constant in the Venetian seruice, did at times sally forth of Crema, where he lay in garrison, and made incursions on the enemies Countrey, spoiling and burning whatsoeuer he met with.

The towne of Pescara, after a small resistance, with the Castle likewise, albeit it was well fortified, fell into the enemies hands, thorough the strife and discention* 1.310 of those within it, Lodouico Contaren the Prouidator, and all the Captaines with the most part of the soldiers were taken prisoners, the rest escaped by flight.

The Bishop of Gurcia, as Lieutenant to the Emperor in Italy, comming to the [ 40] Armie, was of opinion to goe and besiege Padua, saying; That he had so great hope in the Lansquenets and Spaniards valour against the Italians, as in the end they would surmount all difficulties. That it was a matter of small labour to take Treuiso, but that the reward of the victory was different, because that to* 1.311 winne Treuiso onely, did not import much for the conclusion of the warre, but by the taking of Padua, they should altogether assure the Citties of the Emperors obedience, from the dangers of warre, and depriue the Venetians of all hope, of euer beeing able to recouer those places that they had lost. It is certaine, that the Bishop of Gurcia did obstinately maintaine this proposition against the aduise of all the Captaines, who were of a contrary opinion, iudging it rather an impossible then hard matter to take Padua by force, in regard of hi•…•… fortifications almost incredible: It is not knowne whether the Bishop of Gur∣cia propounded it by the Emperors commandement, or else of his own motion,

hoping thereby of greater praise, as for an high and difficult enterprise.

At the last, notwithstanding all the Viceroyes reasons, and those of the contra∣ry opinion, the Bishop of Gurcia his will was followed, by meanes whereof the Imperiall Armie approching neere to Padua, went and lodged at Bassanella, on the right side of the channell, a mile and a halfe from the citty, in which place be∣ing much molested by certaine double Canons, planted vpon one of the citties bastions, it crossed the channell, and lodged a little farther of.

Aluiana, who had already sent his Artillery and baggage to Padua, to bee the lighter to take what way should be most expedient, hauing notice of their reso∣lution, determined to march towards the citty, to keepe and defend it against the [ 10] * 1.312 enemies, Baillon beeing already in Treuiso (as hath beene said) with sufficient forces to defend it, whether the Senate sent Andre, Mari-pietro for Prouidator. And although that Padua seemed to bee well furnished with men, and all other necessaries, the Senate neuerthelesse would haue certaine leuies of foot compa∣nies to bee made, as well of Venetians as Histrians, who speedily marched thi∣ther, with all the husbandmen neere about, which were come to Venice for re∣fuge, to the end to vse those men for necessary reparations, in steed of Pioners. Diuerse young Venetian Gentlemen likewise went to the defence of the citty: So great was their care and diligence to keepe these two citties, as well for the commodity of their situation, as for the fertillity of the soyle, hauing made the [ 20] countrey plaine round about, cut downe the trees which were there, and raced all* 1.313 the farmes and houses of pleasure, so as there was nothing within a mile of the citty, which lay not open to the mercy of the Canon.

The enemies encamping round about padua, sent the footmen to S. Anthonies Church, which is within halfe a mile of the towne where they beganne, (that they might approach with lesse danger) to make trenches neere to Saint Antonies gate. But the work being great, and the want of Pioners greater, it went foreward slowly and with danger, because the soldiers on the sodaine making many sallies, as well in the day time as by night, did greatly hinder them that wrought.

On the other side the nomber of the enemies was to smal for such an enterprise, [ 30] for they were not aboue eight thousand foot and a thousand horse of all sortes, so as a smal quantity of the towne beeing enuironed by the enemies, the Stradiots* 1.314 sallied forth at other places and did freely scoure the whole contrey, intercepting whatsoeuer was brought to the Camp, the like did certai•…•…e armed boates which the Venetians had placed for that purpose on the Riuer Adicé so as victuals be∣ginning to faile them, they wee euery day to seeke new.

They had worthy Captaines in their Campe, but their skill and experience was to no purpose in that businesse, in regard of the authority and obstinacy of the Bi∣shop of Gurcia. That which did most trouble them, was, the bringing of their ord∣nance neere to the walls, and how to bring the souldiers afterward to the assault, [ 40] the which they could not doe without a broad and large trench, to auoid the shot of the ordnance which incessantly plaid from the towne, and they wanted Pioners to continue it. These difficulties being propounded by the Viceroy in the enemies councell, with the sicknesse where-with the soldiers were afflicted, by reason of the bad aire, the campe being seated in a low place, and subiect to the ouer flowing of waters, all men were of opinion, that it would be lesse disgrace to correct the de∣termination vnwisely made, by discamping, then by perseuering in that error to be cause of some great losse that might happen, the which would bee followed with greater disgrace.

The Viceroy acquainting the Bishoppe of Gurcia with this determi∣nation, [ 50] hee made answer in the presence of diuers Captaines, that martiall dis∣cipline being none of his vocation, he was not a shamed to confesse, That hee had no vnderstanding in martiall matters, and if he had councelled to besiege Padua, it was by the Viceroys aduise, who by letters and expresse messages had

councelled the Emperour that it might be so, and giuen him great hope to be a∣ble* 1.315 to take it: and therefore he gaue consent, (difficulties still continuing) to raise the seege, the which was done on the sixteenth day of August, after they had encamped twenty dayes before the walls of Padua.

The enemy marched directly to Vincenza, the which beeing found, for the most part, empty of inhabitants, and abandoned by the Venetian Magi∣strates was foorth with seized by them, and made a prey to the enemies,* 1.316 where they commited cruell and foule actions, not spoyling alone cittizens houses, but Churches and sacred places, not for hatred they did beare to that wretched citty, but because their army was altogether maintained by theft and [ 10] robbery.

The Bishop of Gurcia and the Viceroy remained certaine dayes at vincenza with bad intertainment, as well in regard of the continuall molestation of the stradiots who scoured the contrey day and night, as scarcity and want of victuals, in the Citty. This enforced them to dislodge: The Bishop of Gurcia with his Almans went towards Verona, and the Viceroy encamped at Albera on the A∣dicé, where he tarried certaine dayes, as well to giue meanes to the veronois to gather in their haruest vintage, and to sow their grounds, as for to make a bridge ouer the riuer, hauing an intent to bring his troopes to winter on the Bressan and Bergamasc territories. But Aluiana perceiuing that the viceroy made no hast [ 20] to depart thence, was of opinion to sally forth of Padua and Treuiso with their forces and to assaile the enemies, who without any suspition thereof, being disperced heere and there about pillage, gaue occasion of an assured victo∣ry: shewing, that that Army being defeated, the warre was for a time ended.

The Senate iudging otherwise of the matter, said that it was not necessary* 1.317 to hazard, on the vncertaine euent of a battaile, that army, wherein con∣sisted the chiefe hope of the preseruation of their State: thinking it like∣wise no discretion to vnfurnish, in so dangerous a time, the Citties of Padua and Treuiso of their garrisons: Neuer-the lesse, concealing their intents, [ 30] they caused it to bee giuen out, That their Army should shortly come forth into the field, to the end, that the enemies beeing troubled with this newes, should abstaine from making any more incursions, and dislodge foorth of their confines.

But the Viceroy making no great account of these rumors, in regarde hee saw no likelyhood thereof, propounded to him-selfe greater designes, and changing his former determination, to place his armie in garrison on the Bressail and Bergamase Countrey, hauing no other meanes to feede his Armie, but by boot-haling, hee sent for the Almaines, and went to Montagnane and Este, and to the village of Bouolente, from whence bringing away great store of [ 40] Cattle, the Souldiers burned diuerse goodly houses neere adioyning: Then be∣ing prouoked by the desire of spoyle, and emboldened because the Venetian troopes were distributed for the garde of Padua, and Treuiso, they determined to draw neere to Venice (contrary to the opinion of Prospero Colonna) and hauing* 1.318 crossed the Riuer Baquillon, and spoiled Pieua di Sac, which is a great Burrow, they went to Mestre and Marguera, seated on the salt waters, where the Viceroy commanded his Artillery to stay, and seeing the Citty of Venice before him, hee caused tenne peeces of great ordnance to bee discharged vpon it, the bullets whereof fell on the Monastery of Saint Secundus, and at the same time, his souldiers rob'd and spoyled the whole countrey, making warre most vniustly [ 50] on the very walles, for beeing not satisfied with their booty, they cruelly burnt Mestre, Marguera, and Lissafusina, together with other townes and villages.

Now the Viceroy beginning to perceiue his error, and therefore beeing desirous to make hast to gette from thence, could not keepe back his soldiers from pillaging, neither by his authority nor by shewing them the danger they were in if they stayed any longer there, in regard of the ouer-much liberty which they had taken to spoile.

Aluiana being with his army shut vp in Padua, was extreamly greeued to see* 1.319 his reputation so soiled, and that before his face the enemies passing along neere to so strong a Citty, should so vnluckily giue spoile to so great a Contrey. Ther∣fore he aduertised the Senate that his intent was to sally foorth of the Cittty with his forces and to come and meet with the enemies, to stop their passage at their [ 10] returne, saying that being laden with spoile as they were, they could not choose but march in disorder and by that meanes they might easily be broaken and de∣feated,* 1.320 That certainly their Republicke was fallen into a wretched condition, farre vnworthy their antient glory, the which they could not shake off, but by some valiant and generous exploite▪ But the Senate enclining to the contrary, thought that the same did not proceed from a base and abiect mind, but rather from a ge∣nerous constancy, carefully to prouide for al inconueniences that might happen, and that it was no great wisdome to hazard all on the euent of a battaile, which for the most part is doubtfull and vncertaine: therefore their opinion was, that he should assaile the enemies with the Cauallery only, and leaue the foote-forces [ 20] for the gard of the citty.

But Aluiana being carried away with an extreme desire to obtaine the victo∣ry, by which oftentimes he was spurd foreward by vaine glory, as by a certaine dazeling, so as hee did not fore-see dangers, and contemned all councell how wise and proffitable soeuer, did euery day make greater instance, that he might with the Army come forth into the field, the Prouidatory made the same request, being induced as they said by the great affection which they perceiued in the Captaines in the Republicks behalfe.* 1.321

The Senate at these intreaties, gaue ouer their former opinion, and referred all to Aluianas discretion, if he thought that his comming forth of Padua with the army [ 30] might turne to the proffit and vtillity of the common wealth; and that to those ends he should assemble all his soldiers, and cause all the peasants, as well of the champaine as hilly countrey to rise, to stoppe if it were possible the enemies re∣turne (as Aluiana promised to him selfe to do) who were so rashly gonne forward, being come betwixt Venice, Treuiso and Padua.

The Viceroy (as hath beene said) hauing acknowledged his error made all the hast he could to march away, and beeing come to Ciuitella, he could not take it, by reason that it was well mand with soldiers. For Aluiana according to the Senates permission being with all his forces come forth of Padua leauing a garrison in Ciuitella, came to Cotincella, where the Riuer Brente [ 40] might bee so orded. The enemies failed not to come thither, for they could not* 1.322 enter Ciuitella: But perceiuing Aluiana to bee lodged on the other side with the Artillery, they durst not passe ouer: and making shew that they would passe a little beneath, Aluiana turned all his forces thither, wherevpon they pas∣sed the night following, without any let, at the passage called the new Crosse,* 1.323 three miles aboue Ciuitella, taking afterwards with great speed, the way to∣wards Vincenza.

Aluiana hauing notice of their passage, resolued to stoppe them at the Riuer Baquillon: André Gritti, and Iohn Paul Baillon, comming forth of Treuiso, ioyned with him, with two hundred and fiftie men at armes, and two thousand [ 50] foot, determining not to fight with displayed Ensignes, but onely to garde the strong passages and commodious places to stoppe their way, on what side so euer they should turne, as well on Monteseas side, as on that of Barberana,

hauing sent forces thither for that purpose, and caused the country peasants to pos∣esse all the passages leading into Germany, and to fortifie them with dikes and trenches, Aluiana hauing left Theodore 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in Vincenza, with sufficient garrison, came with the residew of the Army, and encamped at Olma, which* 1.324 is a place two miles distant from Vincenza, on the high way of Verona, which was so stopped with ditches and trenches, with artillery planted on the waies, as it was almost impossible to passe. Aluiana chose this place as most safe and commodious, wher he determined to stay for the enemies, (according to the Senates aduise) hauing in aboundance all things necessary for a campe, and the enemies on the contrary wanted all. [ 10]

The Viceroy in the meane time holding on his way was come within foure miles of the Venetian Campe, and stayed at a place called by those of the country La Motta, where hee was much troubled in his minde, together with his other Captaines, what way hee were best to take, all their opinions were different: For they could not passe along by the sides of the mountaines, by reason of the mar∣rish countrey which was full of water, nor yet by the streight-waies of the mountaine, which was garded by diuers armed men. So as beeing in a manner enuironed on euery side by the enemies, in front, on their backs, and in flanke, and continually followed by great multitudes of light-horse, they could not deter∣mine on any thing which was not hard and dangerous. Wherevpon after long [ 20] consultation, they resolued at the last to open their way by armes, thinking it fit and well beseeming to shew in greate dangers a singular and vnusuall valour. Therefore the viceroy, perceiuing the difficulties that did present them selues could no longer bee concealed from the soldiours, hee thought good without* 1.325 dissembling any thing, to let them vnderstand how their 〈◊〉〈◊〉 stood, and by some remonstrance to exhorte them to doe wel, and to open their way with their swords points, putting them in mind, how much hee had euer relied on their va∣lour and prowesse, the which alone had made them to enter so farre into the e∣nemies country, hoping that they would altogether striue to free them-selues from danger, if any should bee offered, as then was: for hauing on the one side, [ 30] sharpe and hight mountaines, possessed by the enemies, and on the other side the Venetian Army stopping their returne, they were resolued them-selues by figh∣ting to endure sondry discommodities to winne way, which would neuerthelesse be great disgrace to them, who had neuer beene vanquished: And therefore hee thought it much better to come at the first to handy-stroakes with the enemies, and to passe thorow the middest of their campe, continuing their iourny: for want of victuall enforced them to depart thence▪

The souldiers being greatly encouraged by this remonstrance, promised the Generall to behaue themselues brauely in the fight, and in this resolution they [ 40] marched the next day by day-breake to Bassan, turning their backes to the ene∣mies, marching alwaies in order, with small hope neuerthelesse of escape.

Aluiana by reason of a thicke mist, did not very soone perceiue that they were dislodged, which was done without drummes or trumpets: but hauing notice thereof, hee speedily followed them with his forces: so that their difficulty in marching, passing thorow narrow waies, full of ditches, did still increase their dan∣ger, and hauing gonne about two miles in such way, not without great trauaile, Aluiana not being able to contein•…•… himselfe, did assaile, not disorderly, but with his army ordered for the fight, and with the artilery the enemies •…•…ereward, con∣ducted by Prospero Colonna, who hauing brauely receiued them, sent speedily for the viceroy, who led the battaile; and the Spanish foot-men commanded by [ 50] the Marquis of Pescara, marching at the same time on the one side, and the Lans•…•…quenets on the other: The Venetian souldiers beeing with great fury charged vpon, not being able to susteine the enemies force, did basely on 〈◊〉〈◊〉 betake them selues to flight, flinging their pikes from them vpon the ground.

The foot-men of Romagnia were authors of this flight: the residew of their army did forth-with follow them, so as none in a manner did fight. Aluiana him∣selfe was so amazed at so sodaine a rout, as without fight hee left the victory to the enemies with all his bagage and artillery, the foot-men dispersed them-selues in diuers places, and as for the men at armes, part of them fled towards the hill, and the other saued themselues in Padua and Treuiso, whether Aluiana and Gritti did like-wise retire: Many Captaines were slaine there, and many were taken pri∣soners,* 1.326 but the Prouidator Loredan made proofe of them both, by reason that two soldiers striuing who should haue him, the one of the two did most inhumainely kill him. And in this manner at this battaile, as well dead as taken prisoners, foure [ 10] hundred men at armes, and foure thousand Venetian foot were found by reason the marshes which hindred the escape of many.* 1.327

But notwithstanding that the Senate was aflicted with so many miseries, and amased at an accident contrary to their hope, yet neuerthelesse, the same day that* 1.328 they receaued these lamentable newes, they determined to write to Aluiana, That they could not deny, but that they were in some sort troubled at the report of so strange an accident, but not danred or wholy discouraged, wherevpon they were rather to awake them-selues in such aduersiy, then to lose one iot of their vsuall constancy, Therfore they did with great affection entreate him to take cour∣rage, and not to yeeld to fortune: That they were very carefull of his health, in re∣gard [ 20] of the great hope they had in his valour, and that they did still hope, if hee re∣couered his strength and magnanimity, to breake the course of aduerse fortune, to calme her too much rigor, by bringing backe in the end victory from the ene∣mies, albeit they were now victorious: They willed him then speedily to prouide for the defence of Padua and Treuiso, that the Senate would soone furnish him with soldiours, armor, victualls, and mony, and generally with what-so∣euer they knew to be necessary for the safety and preseruation of those Citties.

These letters being written, the Senate made prouision of all things needfull. Prince Loredan by a graue remonstrance inciting euery one to employ him-selfe [ 30] * 1.329 therein, said, That it behoued them▪selues to releeue their state, and not to hope for aide from elsewhere, and that each man ought to aide the common-wealth with what hee knew was in his ability. As for him-selfe hee was determined to spare nothing that he knew might serue the Republike▪ and how for that pur∣pose hee resolued to send his two Sonnes, Lodouico and Bernardo; the one to Tre∣uiso, and the other to Padua, for to expose them to all dangers which should hap∣pen, consecrating them to his country.

The Princes speech did greatly moue; but his example much more, by which diuers young Gentlemen of the cheefest families of the Citty, and of great hope* 1.330 being incited did like-wise depart for the gard of those townes; diuers of the [ 40] common people were like-wise enroled to bee sent to Treuiso, whether the re∣port was, that the enemies would first come. The which vndoubtedly had beene done, had not Prospero 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by deferring from day to day, the resolution of that businesse hindred the execution thereof.

Hee, as it was after-wards knowne, did sufficiently fauour the Veneti∣ans affaires, for the conseruation and defence of the common liberty of Italy: so as after many and sondry determinations, hee caused the councell at last to con∣descend to deferre the matter till the Bishop of Gurcias comming, saying That* 1.331 there was nothing which did so much wrong their reputation, as to attempt an 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and then to be enforced to giue ouer, without effecting it, as they had [ 50] done at Padua. And thus the Viceroy, and Prospero concluded together to leaue part of the Army at Vincenza, and to leade the residew to Verona, staying for the Bishop of Gurcia: where hauing delayed the time twenty daies, Colonna tooke vpon him the place of Captaine Generall of Maximilian Sforzas army, and forsooke the Spaniards.

The Viceroy being desirous to renew his Army: sent for all the Captaines with their Companies which lay on the Bressan and Bergamask, assuring them that vp∣pon their arriuall, he would forthwith goe and beseege Treuiso: Gritti was within it, with the Knight La Volpe, Hug•…•… de Pepoli, Iohn Paul Manfrou, with diuers other worthy Captaines, great numbers of horse and foot, and store of victuall. The Viceroy being aduertized thereof, and it being winter, he deferred the matter till some other time, and sent his army to winter on the Paduan territory, some to Este, and the rest to Montagnane and Moncelesia.

In the meane time matters were changed from Armes to consultations of peace, which were treated of in the Popes Court, whether the Bishop of Gur∣cia [ 10] * 1.332 was gone; at whose comming a compromise was made by him and the Venetian Ambassadors in the Popes person, concerning all the strife which was betwixt the Emperour and their common-wealth: but it was a compromise in name and shew rather then in effect and substance: the Pope likewise left the matter imperfect, albeit hee had declared by a Breefe, that there should bee a surcease of armes on both sides: for this was not well obserued, neither by the Viceroy, whose soldiers since the victory did nothing but robbe and spoile euery where, nor by the Germaines, who by meanes of a Preest did by stealth take Maran which is a Sea towne in the Country of Friul, then they tooke Mont∣falcon; [ 20] In the recouery of which townes, Fortune shewing her selfe no more fauourable to the Venetians, then in other places, they were on both sides much endamaged.

At the same time as these affaires were thus managed in Italy, there were great stirrs in Asia. Selim sonne to Baziazet, his father yet liuing, did vsurpe the Otto∣man* 1.333 Empire, and hauing in sondry battailes vanquished Achomat his brother, who likewise laid claime therevnto, had enforced him for releefe, to haue recourse to his neighbor Kings, and cheefely to Hismaell Sophi, King of Persia. And albeit* 1.334 that Selim in his victories gaue sufficient testimony of his vile and cruell nature, and the desire he had, (being freed from this warre) to assaile the Christians; The Venetians neuerthelesse beeing else where molested, and hauing no meanes to [ 30] resist his greatnesse, resolued to purchase his frendship, and to fit themselues to the* 1.335 time. Therefore they were of opinion to send an Ambassador to him, and they appointed for this purpose Antonio Iustiniano, in the Republicks name to congra∣tulate his comming to the Empire, and to reioyce with him, and to con∣firme a new the ancient frendship and alliance which they had with the Ottoman family.

This Ambassador was honorably receiued by Selim in the citty of Andrinopo∣lis, where he then was with his army, who gaue him great entertainment, know∣ing very well that without peace he could not assure his affaires of Europe, then when he was to passe with a great Army into Asia against his brother Achomat, [ 40] who being backt by the Sophies forces, had already recouered certaine places in Cappadocia, and approached to assaile him, whilest he as yet was not strong enough to resist him; wherevpon Selim (perceiuing that which he had cheefely wished for to be freely offered) did willingly imbrace the Venetians frendship, promising for euer to obserue it inuiolably: And in this manner the alliance was renewed betwixt them on the same conditions as they had beene before treated of with Baziazet.

This treaty being concluded and effected, Iustinian returned to Venice, with whom Selim sent Alimbei his Ambassador, to cause the Prince and Senate to ra∣tefie the present treaty, vnto whom he likewise wrote, exhorting them to enter∣taine [ 50] his frendship: And that he for his part would neuer faile them. The Turkish Ambassador being come to Venice, and brought into the Senate, Prince Loredan, swore and ratefied, as well in his owne name as in the Common wealthes, all that which Iustinian, their Ambassador, had agreed to,

and signed. Selim by this meanes being out of feare of the warrs on Europes side, hauing likewise renewed the truce with the Kings of Poland, and Hungary, hee marched courrageously against Achomat, whome hauing broken and defeated, hee commanded to be slaine, to the end that by his death hee might without con∣tradiction* 1.336 become absolute Lord of Asia the lesse, thereby promising to him∣selfe, that nothing should bee able to resist him: whereby hee became so proude as hee thought hee was able to conquer the whole world, and cheefely Italy, on which hee began to fixe his thoughts, imagining that he could with ease subiu∣gate it, being weake and molested by the forepassed warres.

He was moreouer incited thervnto by the Emperor Maximilian, who thought [ 10] * 1.337 on nothing more then how to ruinate the Venetians. It is certaine that he sent an Ambassador to Constantinople to aduertise Selim of the great opportunity then offered, to enuade the sea coasts of the Venetians state, whilest hee with his army would assaille them by land: but it was not certainly knowne, on what place he ment first to attempt

Selim being thus solicited, caused that winter diuers Vessels to bee armed, and new to be made, and to new builde those that were broken. But at the spring* 1.338 newes was brought to Constantinople, how that Amurath, Sonne to his bro∣ther Achomat, (who being not at the battaile where his Father fought, with such bad successe, had escaped into Persia) had on a sodaine entred Cappadocia with [ 20] great numbers of horse and foote, where afrighting the whole country with great wast, hee was become maister of diuers places of that Prouince.

Selim being greatly daunted at these newes, and considering that the Sophi a∣lone* 1.339 was cause, as well of those present troubles, as of those which Achomat his brother had in time before raised, resolued to take reuenge: and to this end determined to send all that great army, as well by land as sea into Asia, the which was leuied for Europe. This Asian warre fell out opportunely for the Christian Princes, whome this most mighty and cruell enemy would haue wholy ruined, and afterward would haue gone on in dispite of all their resistance.

This being considered by Pope Leo, with the great good which this warre of [ 30] * 1.340 Persia had done, thought it his duty to meditate a firme peace among Christian Princes, to the end that being vnited together, they might with more ease op∣pose them selues against that Barbarous enemy. The Cardinalls solicited him therevnto, in setting on foot the treaty of peace, and not to leaue till it had taken effect according to their desire. But albeit the Pope did very well know that this* 1.341 was more then reasonable, yet neuer: the-lesse hee reuolued in his minde, which was troubled with diuers maters, that as the successe of that wholesome coun∣cell, did promise a very great and certaine commendations, euen so the diuers res∣pects of warre and peace, and the difficulties which he met with in this treatie did affright him and wholy draw him backe from that enterprise. For his feare least [ 40] the French should returne againe into Italy, and make head against the Spani∣ards and Almans, did extreamely trouble him: thinking verily that the same would happen, if the realme of France were not enuaded in some place or other, know∣ing that King Lewis, by nature, was altogether an enemy to quiet, and that so soone as hee had made peace with the English, hee would turne his thoughts vpon Italy, for the recouery of the Dutchy of Milan, in regard hee had euer reiec∣ted all motions of peace wherein was propounded that hee should quit his claime to the state of Milan.

The Venetians affaires were almost at the same stay, the Pope being not desi∣rous to haue them recouer their former greatnesse, no•…•… yet to be to much deiec∣ted [ 50] in regard of the common reputation of Italy. Whilest the Pope was in this sort afflicted with sundry thoughts, and that at one time hee would fauour the Venetians, and at another shewe them an angry and froward countenance,

the warre did still continew, notwithstanding the sharpnesse of the Winter, for Prospero Collonna with the Duke of Millans forces marching to Crema, ioy∣ned himselfe to the Spannish army, the which did re-enforce the Citties seege,* 1.342 and the Paduan territory was daily scoured and spoiled by the enemies incursi∣ons, the like was done in the Contrey of Friul, where there was no towne or castle so strong, either by art or nature, which was not enforced to obey that partie who was strongest in the field; so as the inhabitants of that poore contrey, were wholly stript of all.

And for to dispatch them at once, Bernardino Frangipan hauing forsaken the* 1.343 Venetians, did by treachery seaze on the Fort of Maran (as hath beene said) by [ 10] meanes of a Preest called Bartholomeo, who being a familiar frend to Alessandro Marcello Prouidator of the place, got leaue of him on a morning, before day, to haue the Castle gates opened for him, vnder co•…•…ller that he went forth to hunt, so as Frangipan, according as it was concluded betwixt himselfe and the Preist, did on a sodaine seaze on the gate, with certaine Almaine foot, and some horse, vn∣till his troopes were arriued, whereby hee became maister of the place. But the traytor within a while after was paied his desert; for being taken by Nicolo Pisare* 1.344 who commaunded in Gruare, hee was sent to Venice, where beeing hung vp by one foote, hee was by the people stoned to death.

This place beeing very commodious for the Venetians, the Senate was of opi∣nion [ 20] to haue it speedily beseeged, the better afterwards to assayle Goritia, which Frangipan had taken in the same manner, and held it in the Emperors name. The land Army marched thither vnder the conduct of Balthasar Scipione of Luca, and the nauall army, commanded by Bartholomeo de Must a man well experienced in marine matters. These two Armies being come before Maran, an Herrald was sent to the inhabitants of the towne, and to the Almaines that were within it, to* 1.345 summon them in the name of the common wealth to yeeld vp that place to the Venetians, aduising them not to delay till it were taken by force.

Those within it made shewes wholy contrary to the summons, and vsed many [ 30] iniurious speeches to the Herrald, whereat those of the Camp being incensed, determined to giue an assault, not tarrying for certaine galleyes which were to a∣riue, but at the first shot of ordnance which the beseeged made vpon the armed boates, which did disorder them, and slew some, the sailers and soldiers were so danted, as on a sodaine they retired as far off as they could from the shot of the Cannon, whereas at the beginning they craued to be led to the assault, so as after∣ward they durst in no sort stirre, vntill that foure armed gallcies arriued to their aid.

The towne-walls next to the Hauen were in some sort lower then other places, where the small towers likewise had beene beaten downe by the Canon; the Ve∣netians [ 40] made account to enter there with ease; and to make the matter lesse diffi∣cult, to assaile it on a sodaine in sondry places, as well on the land side, as on the Hauens, to the end that the beseeged beeing busied in so many places, might be the weaker in all. According then to this resolution they went to the assault, but* 1.346 on a sodaine there fell such a shower ofrayne, as those on the land side were enfor∣ced to retire, not only from the walls, but a great way from the towne, the whole plaine being couered with water, by reason of the Marshes neere adioyning, by meanes where-of the beseeged being assured on that side, turned all their forces towards the Hauen, from whence with ease they draue the assaylants, who already beganne to mount the walles. [ 50]

At the same time as this happened, the soldiers whom Scipio had sent to garde* 1.347 the passages of the mountaines, to stoppe all ayd from the beseeged sent intelligence to the Campe, that Frangipan approached with great nombers of soldiers, requesting to haue supplies sent vnto them, otherwise they

should bee enforced to abandon those places, beeing to weake to resist them, Sauorgnane who was in the army, being out of hope to take the towne, vpon these news turned his forces towards the Mounts, but he had not marched a mile, ere he met with those that sent for more aide, who being afrighted at the great numbers of those who were said to be comming, to releeue the towne, had not the courage to attend them, and Sauorgnane vniting them with his forces, went to the horse∣mens quarter, who were lodged on a little rising hill, not farre from the campe, and did earnestly entreate them (hauing acquainted them how their affaires stood) to approch neare to Maran, to ioyne them-selues with the residew of the army, and to keepe backe the aid, that was comming to the towne: they were not a∣shamed [ 10] to refuse it, where-vpon those of the Campe being affrighted, at the re∣port* 1.348 of the enemies great numbers, did in a manner all disband, vnder collour that they had not their pay.

Frangipan in the meane time, beeing come with his succors, did without any* 1.349 difficulty enter the towne, finding no where any resistance, where he tooke with∣out delay part of the Almaines, who lay there in garrison, and ioyning them with his soldiers they made a good troope, with which hee went on a sodaine, and assayled the remnant of the Venetians campe, who little expected it, so as with ease hee did put them to rout, who thinking on nothing but how to escape, forsooke their campe and their ordnance, whereby the greatest part of them were [ 20] * 1.350 either taken or cut in peeces.

Francisco Tron Captaine of a Gally, did winne that day great reputation; who re∣membring the Venetian glory, did neuer forsake the place which hee had seased on with a few soldiers, vntill he saw the most part of them slayne, or greeuously hurt. Frangipan following the course of his victory, went on a sodaine to Stra∣soda* 1.351 and Montfalcone, townes of the Friul, which hee finding vnfurnished of garisons, did easily take, and committed most lamentable spoyle.

During this vnfortunate successe of the Venetians warre, and the small hope they had that the French King would that yeare send an army into Italy a gree∣uous [ 30] fire hapned in Venice in the night, in the beginning of the yeare, 1514. on the bridge of the Rialto, which being driuen forward by the North-windes did so* 1.352 runne on, as no dilligence or humaine labour could for a long time quench it: it burned the most inhabited and welthiest part of the Citty.

The Pope at the same time, being desirous to attone the Emperor and the Venetians, did in his owne person cause a new compromise to bee made, with am∣ple & vnlimited power, whervpon by a breefe he commanded both parties to sur∣cease* 1.353 their armes, which was not very wel obserued by the Spaniards and Almans, because the Spaniards in the meane time did spoyle the whole country neere to Este, and the Viceroy sent to take Vincenza, because hee would be found to bee [ 40] possessed thereof at such time as the sentence should bee giuen. Frangipan on the otherside, hauing done great harme in the Friull (as hath beene said) began to scoure the whole country, the like did the Almans vnder the command of the Captaines Rissan, and Calepine: who seperating them-selues, Calapine came af∣terwards to Feltre, which he tooke by assault, where staying three daies, hee was expulsed by Iohn Brandolino, who marching to the recouery thereof by the com∣mandment* 1.354 of Ieromino Pisare the prouidator, with strong troopes gathered to∣gether from Valmarino, and with his light cauallery, enforced the enemies, who were daunted at his sodaine arriuall, to abandon the C•…•…tty, and to seeke meanes to escape by flight. [ 50]

Calepine with the greatest part of his soldiers retired to Bassan, where not standing on his grade he was assailed a new by Francio Duoda, Gouernor of the country for the Venetians, hauing called to his aide Bernardino Antignole with his light horse, and Calepine being surprized in that place was taken prisoner, and three hundred of his foot were slaine. But 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with eight hundred foot and

three hundred horse, hauing taken the way of Goritia, met with Frangipan as he returned, and hauing vnited their forces together, and by that meanes beeing to the number of fiue thousand foot, and a thousand horse, they resolued to assaile Vdina. The Senate hauing intelligence thereof, sent Malateste Sogliane and Iohn 〈◊〉〈◊〉 thither, the one to cōmand the army, and the other to be Prouidator, with sixe hundred horse and two thousand foot: Ieronimo Sauorgnane was there alrea∣dy with two thousand men of the country, where after long consultation, whether it were best to tarry there for the enemy, or by crossing the Riuer Liuensa to goe vnto some safer place: at the last it was concluded vpon the aduice of the inha∣bitants concerning the commodities and discommodities of that place, to quit [ 10] * 1.355 and abandon it, and to retire else▪where beyond the Riuer: the which was speedily done, for feare least the enemies preuenting them, their passage might be stopt: Sauorgnane retired to Osof, a place of his owne, to keepe and defend it from the enemies.

Vdina being thus abandoned did yeeld at the enemies first summons their liues and goods being saued, on condition to pay a thousand crownes to the army to auoide the sack of their City: The like did Ciuid•…•…le Port Gruera, and some others. But the enemy finding no victuals in that Prouince whe•…•…ewith to feed the army, after they had wasted and spoiled it, were desirous to march towards Treuiso, to ioyne with the Spanish Infantery, which lay on the Paduan and Vincentyne [ 20] territories, to the end that being vnited, they might execute some notable enter∣prise. But one only matter delayed their deseigne; which was, not to leaue the fort of Osof behind them, the which was able to stop their victuals, and aide, com∣ming forth of Germany. Therefore they resolued to assaile it before they went on any farther; and that which induced Frangipan to doe so, was the hope hee had to take it, as he had done the castle of Chiuse, strong by sytuation, the which the souldiers that kept it, had yeelded vpon the only sight of the enemies, without feare of reproach, so as Osof being taken, there was nothing that could stop their victuals or reliefe from Germany, or hinder them from conquering the whole country of Friul. [ 30]

But Sauorgnane trusting to the sytuation of the place, and to the valour and courage of his soldiers, al-be-it he had but an hundred foot, and foure score cros∣bowes on horse-backe, with some few peasants, did hope to keepe and defend it in despight of all the enemies attempts.* 1.356

The Almains then comming to encampe before Osof, seated on the top of a steepe mountaine, did batter it with their ordnance, and gaue diuers assaults to it in vaine, which made them resolue to winne it by a long seege, hauing intelli∣gence that they within it wanted water; but God prouided for them, for at the sametime there fell great store of raine, wherewith they were aboundantly re∣leeued. In regard whereof the enemies renued the assault, but all in vaine, so as [ 40] despayring to take it, either by assault or by long seege, they raised their campe.* 1.357

Whilest these things were done in the Friull, the Venetians affaires, although they were not very peaceable in Lombardy, did neuerthelesse su•…•…∣ceed more prosperously, where Rance de Cera commanding Crema for the Ve∣netians, did performe sundry notable exploits, notwithstanding that the Spaniards* 1.358 and Sforzas forces were encamped before the towne. These things did greatly displease the Pope, who as a deputed arbitrator sought to bring them to accord, but he could find no meanes of agreement, which might content both parties, by reason that by the frequent alteration of matters, hopes changing according to the successe thereof, it happened that when the Emperour had giuen his con∣sent [ 50] * 1.359 to quit Vincenza, reseruing Verona for himselfe, the Venetians refused it, vnlesse they might be repossessed of Verona: and then when the Venetians be∣ing deiected, were satisfied onely with Vincenza, the Emperour would haue both or none.

The Pope being wearied with these difficulties, al-be-it he doubted that his de∣claration would not be accepted, was desirous neuerthelesse (to shew that it was not his fault) to pronounce his sentence, after this manner: That the Emperour should commit Vincenza into his hands in deposito, and all that which the Spa∣niards* 1.360 and himselfe did possesse on the Paduan and Treuisan territories: That the Venetians should doe the like by Crema. That as for other matters, each partie should hold those possessions they enioyed, till the declaration which he preten∣ded to make within a yeere, of the conditions of the peace, but that in the meane time, armes should bee laied downe on both sides: That each of them within a month should ratifie that sentence, and that the Venetians in ratifying it, should [ 10] pay vnto the Emperor fiue and twenty thousand Ducats, and within three months after, other fiue and twenty thousand: And if each of them did not ratifie it, the sentence should be of no validity.

After this maner he gaue iudgement, because he would not discontent any of the* 1.361 parties: but this sentence came to nothing, by reason that the Venetians would not ratifie it: for their desire was to haue had the conditions of peace pronounced at the same time. Therefore they returned to armes, and determined to recouer the Friull, wherevpon they sent Aluiana thither for that purpose, with two hun∣dred men at armes, foure▪hundred light▪horse, and seuen hundred foot, who marching on the high way of Portonone, where part of the Almains lay, his [ 20] light horse which scoured before, met with captaine Rissan, the Almain, without the towne (of whom wee haue heretofore spoken) with two hundred men at armes and three hundred light horse, and comming to handy-stroakes with them,* 1.362 they had beene repulsed, had not Aluiana arriued with the rest of his forces, where∣vpon beganne a furious fight, the issue whereof was at the beginning doubtfull, vntill that captaine Rissan being hurt in the face, was taken by Malateste Sogliane: for then his forces being broken, escaped into Portonone, and despayring of be∣ing able to hold it, did speedily forsake it, and betooke themselues to flight, wherby the City was wholy spoiled, and diuers people of the country were slaine. [ 30]

Aluiana at his departure thence, tooke the way of Osof, which Frangipan had againe beseeged with the other part of the Almaines, who hauing intelligence of Aluianas approach, did soone dislodge, hauing raced the fortes which he had built there abouts, taking his iourney towards Germany, but the Venetian light horse charging him on the taile, he lost his baggage and artillery: By meanes where∣of the whole country in a manner returning to the Venetians obedience, Aluiana hauing attempted in vaine to take Goritia, returned forthwith to Padua with his forces.

Frangipan said that the same disorder was no fault of his, but that being ill dis∣posed of his person, by reason of a blow on the head with a stone which hee had [ 40] receiued at Osof, he could not prouide for that which was necessary for the safe retreate of his army: But being afterwards healed, and running vp & downe the* 1.363 neighbour mountaines to stirre vp new troubles, and to leauy new forces, he fell into an Ambuscado, laied for him by Iohn Vitturi, where he was taken and brought to Venice: A man indeed very haughty and cruell, and a great enemy to the Venetians, and who by his ordinary incursions had for a long time great∣ly molested the country of Friull. In regard of this fortunate successe, wherein* 1.364 Sauorgnanes aide did greatly preuaile, his fame and reputation was much encrea∣sed, wherevpon the Senate for his deserts, created him Earle of Belgrado and Osof, for himselfe and his heires, to the end that the memory of his valour might [ 50] be knowne to posterity, with foure hundred Ducats of yeerely reuenue forth of the publike treasury.

Now to returne to Aluiana, the number of the Almains being encreased by his departure, they tooke againe Cremona & Montfalcon, & enforced the Venetians to remoue their seege from before Ma•…•…an, for the Venetians hauing intelligence

that supplies arriued, dislodged thence and retired in great hast. Such altera∣tions often happened in the country of F•…•…iull, in regard of the Almains neigh∣bour▪hood, who after they had robbed and spoiled, so soone as they had any no∣tice of the comming on of the Venetians forces (with whom diuers of the coun∣try ioyned) they forth with retired home, and then returned, as occasion was offered.

The Venetians in the meane time, perceiuing that all hope of agreement was* 1.365 taken from them, and that the wa•…•…re was to be continued, beganne to thinke on meanes how to get money, their treasure being wholy exhausted. All the ma∣gistrates were assembled to this end, to consult in what manner they might raise [ 10] money for the expences of the warre. Diuers meanes were propounded in the Senate, and debated with sundry opinions. At the last they resolued to make a generall taxation, whereof the highest should not amount to aboue three hun∣dred crownes: and to this end, three persons were chosen to make this rate, ac∣cording to the abillity and authority of euery man, prouided that it did not ex∣ceed (as hath beene said) the summe of three hundred crownes for one house. By meanes whereof in short space great summes of money were raised to pay the ar∣my: For the goods of those men that refused to pay what they were rated at, were iudged to be confiscate to the publike treasury. [ 20]

The end of the first Booke of the fifth Decade.

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

THe Venetians beseege Maran, and forth-with raise their campe. The defeate and taking of Vitturi the Prouidator. [ 20] Bergamo is taken by Rance de Cera, and soone recouered by the Spaniards. The Venetians take Frangipan. The Venetians recouer Vincenza. The victory of Selim against Ismael. Soliman entreth Hungary. The Croisado published in Hungary a∣gainst the Turkes▪ Pope Leo his meanes to ioyne the Venetians with the Em∣perour and the Spaniards, and to disunite them from France. The Venetians send Ambassadors to the French King, and to the King of England. The death of King Lewis the twelfth. Francis the first, Duke of Angoulesme, [ 30] succeedeth him. The new King confirmeth the league with the Venetians. The Venetians send Ambassadors to the Pope to draw him to their side. What the Pope did against the Venetians. A league contracted betwixt the Em∣perour, the King of Arragon, the Duke of Milan, and the Swisses against the French King. The viceroy of Naples his enterprize on Vincenza, and the aide which Aluiana brought thither. The Swisses great gard at the foot of the Alpes against the French. The French passe into Piedmont by the hill of Ar∣gentire. Prospero Colonna is taken by the French. Agreement betwixt the [ 40] King and the Swisses contracted and broken all in one day. The battaile betwixt the King and them at Marignan. The Swisses soft retreate towards Milan.

[ 50]

The Second Booke of the fifth Decade of the [ 10] Historie of Uenice.

ALVIAN A being returned from Friul (as hath beene said) the Venetians were of opinion by the soliciting of Sauorgnano, to renue their enterprize vpon Maran, the whole charge thereof was committed vnto him. He according to his commission ha∣uing leauied two thousand men of the country, and foure hun∣dred of the best souldiers from Vdina, went with his forces and [ 20] encamped before Maran. Iohn Vitturi Generall of the light horse, and Iohn Paul M•…•…nfron captaine of the men at armes, did by the Senates appointment meete* 1.366 him there with their Cauallery, to the end that the enterprise might be executed with more assurance and reputation. Sauorgnane at his arriuall seized on a strong place not farre from the walles of the City, and there encamped, causing great trenches to bee made, to the end the souldiers beeing the better defended, might in more safety march to the walles. And because the sytuation of the place was not commodious for them, by reason the ground was very low▪ and boggy, he by his industry and dilligence ouercame the discommodity of the place, by making plat formes and bulwarkes of sundry substances▪ for two purposes, the one [ 30] for that they should serue for a safe retreate to his souldiers, if so be the enemy should make any sodaine sally; and the other, that his souldiers comming to the assault, should be as high mounted as the enemies on their walles.

All things being in a readinesse for the assault, and some souldiers being al∣ready marched thither, certaine captaines, who at the first were not of opinion to giue an assault made a stand, by reason of some encomberance of water which they found some-what high, which caused them for that time to deferre that which had beene determined: In the meane time letters came from the Senate to Sauorgnane and to the chiefe of the army, which imported, that the Senates* 1.367 meaning was, to haue them vse meanes to take that towne rather by a long seege, [ 40] then by assault, because the Senators feared (as the experience of what had for∣merly happened in the selfe same enterpri•…•…e had made them wi•…•…e) that beeing de∣ceiued through the hope of the Authors of the seege, the enemies comming on a sodaine to passe thorow then campe, the army might receiue some notable losse: As also, for that to assaile that towne so often in vaine did greatly diminish their reputation. Herevpon, they resolued, according to the Senates direction, to encampe only before it, and not to assaile it, setting vp diuers tents and lodg∣ing places, to shut in the towne more straightly, and to keepe all victuals from be∣ing brought vnto it.

But whilest they spent the time thus vnproffitably, they gaue the enemy lei∣sure [ 50] to assemble his troupes, and to re-enforce themselues for the relie•…•…e of the beseeged. Those of the campe hauing notice that the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 had for this pur∣pose gathered together great numbers of horse and foot, and that diuers peasants of the neighbour villages were gonne to Gradisca to come speedily to assaile

them, they resolued presently to raise their seege, and to retire to Vdina and Ci∣uitella.

The enemies so soone as the Venetians had raised their campe, did supply Ma∣ran with victuals and souldiers: by meanes whereof those within it being growne stronger and more audacious scoured the country round about. The Senate being much discontented with these incu•…•…sions, and fearing if it were not speedily remedied some greater harme might ensue thereby, commanded the Knight La Volpe, Generall of the light horsemen, to goe with two hundred horse into Friul to restraine the enemies courses: Petro Marcello was commanded to doe the like who had beene sent Prouidator to the campe: But before they could arriue there, [ 10] the poore country men had endured much misery.

Vitturi the Prouidator retiring with a hundred Albanese horse-men to a place of weake defence, was assailed by the enemies, where after he had valiantly defen∣ded* 1.368 himselfe, being hurt, and his souldiers forsaking him, he was taken prisoner, all his souldiers were either taken or cut in peeces. At the same time Rance de Cera, who lay in Crema, dispayring almost of being able to keepe the towne, in regard of the great want of victuals in it, and of the terrible plague, as also for* 1.369 that the souldier•…•… wanted diuers monthes pay, did (vnlooked for) assaile Siluio Sa∣uella, as he came from Milan, who had with him two hundred men at armes, a hundred light horse, and fifteene hundred foot, whom hee did forth-with put to [ 20] rout, so as Sauello fled to Lodi with fifty men at armes only; whervpon, the Veneti∣ans did re-victual Crema the second time, & Count Nicolo Scoto manned it with fifteene hundred foot.

Rance being encouraged by these supplies, did within a while after enter into* 1.370 Bergamo, whither those of the City had sent for him, and the Spaniards that lay there fled to La Chappella. The viceroy and Prospero Colonna being awakened with the losse of Bergamo, assembled the Spanish companies, with those of the Duke of Milan, and went to encampe before it with fiue thousand foot ioyned to the Spanish and the Duke of Milans forces, where hauing planted the artillery a∣gainst Saint Catherins gate, and made a breach, Rance who was in the city per∣ceiuing [ 30] that it was impossible to keepe it, left it to their discretion, and capi•…•…ula∣ted for himselfe and his souldiers, that they might depart thence with their liues and goods, without sound of drum or trumpet, and their enseignes •…•…oulded vp.

Whilest these things were done at Crema and Bergamo, Aluiana hauing much importuned the Senate, that he might come forth of Padua with his forces, was permitted to doe so, to the end he might restraine the Spaniards, who although peace was treated of, did not cease to waste and spoile euery where: wherevpon at his comming forth, hee made a very notable enterprize, full of wonderfull speed and industry vpon the City of Rouigo, where lay aboue two hundred Spa∣nish men at armes, who thought themselues safe there, because the Riuer Adi•…•…é [ 40] was betwixt them and the Venetian companies: for at such time as they thought not of him, he cast a bridge neere to the towne of Anguilare, and with one com∣pany without baggage, he crost the Riuer, and being come to the towne, where∣of one of the gates was seized by a hundred foot, clothed like peasants, whom he had sent before vnder collour that it was market-day, he entred it, and tooke all the* 1.371 men at armes prisoners whom he found there.

This exploit caused all the other Spaniards that were lodged in the Pollessin, to abandon it, and Legnaga likewise and to retire to Ferrara. Aluiana after the taking of Rouigo being come to Oppian neere to Legnaga, meaning to haue gon to Verona, hauing intelligence that the Spanish army had recouered Bergamo, [ 50] and was returning towards Verona, he resolued not to tarry there, and therefore he sent the companies of men at armes by land to Padua, and he went thi•…•…her by night by the Riuer Adicé, with the Infantery, the baggage, and the ordnance, to* 1.372 auoide the great wet and mire, and not without feare of beeing assailed by the

enemies, who were kept backe by the waters which were risen very high; then comming on shoare he speedily went into Padua whether the men at armes were come two daies before. The Senate vpon the report of this braue exploite vp∣on Rouigo, did receiue great contentation, hoping still for better fortune hereaf∣ter, and wrote letters to Aluiana full of congratulation, saying that he had truly manifested his valour and martiall experience, together with the good will which he did beare to the Republike.

The same yeere, the country of Friul was in more quiet then of a long time* 1.373 before, by reason of the taking of captaine Frangipan, who had molested it mo•…•…e then any other: wherevpon, the Venetians knowing how much it did import [ 10] them still to detaine him, refused to exchange him for Iohn Paul Baillon. At the same time likewise Rance de Cera being returned to Crema, and finding there great want of all things, did of his owne authority without communicating it to the Senate, make truce with the enemy for sixe monthes: then, leauing Gio∣uan Antonio Visin in the City, with fiue hundred foot, and as many horse for the gard thereof, he went with the residue of his forces to Padua, and from thence himselfe went to Venice, to giue them an account of what had past at Bergamo and Crema, and also to consult with them of what was needfull to bee done.* 1.374 Hee was honourably entertained: and because hee had in former time re•…•…u∣sed the place of Generall of their army, no greater honour beeing at that present [ 20] vacant, the Senate gaue him the towne and castle of Martinenga with all the re∣uenue thereof.

The viceroy and Prospero Colonno being crossed in their deseignes, by reason of Aluiana his retreat to Padua, hauing sent their forces into Garrison in the Pol∣lesin of Rouigo, they went to Ispruch, to consult with the Emperour what was to be done.

Whilest fortune shewed her selfe so variable and inconstant to the Veneti∣ans, the City of Vincenza, which was reduced vnder their gouernment, was kept with a small garrison, notwithstanding that diuers of the enemies troupes lay round about it: for it continued still in the fidelity and deuotion of the com∣mon-wealth, [ 30] chiefly by the meanes and dilligence of certaine Citizens, who hauing gathered together great numbers of people of the territory neere ad∣ioyning, did keepe it alwaies well furnished and prouided of all necessaries: so as Nicolo Pascalic the Citties Magistrate, resoluing in regard of the small number of defendants which was in it at the beginning, to abandon it, did take new cou∣rage, and did so well exhort all the inhabitants to the defense thereof, as the ene∣mies durst neuer come againe to beseege it.

In these petty exploits of warre, and with an vncertaine hope of peace, the Sommer of that yeere was spent for the affaires of Italy. But Asia produced greater enterprizes; for ▪Selim marching into Persia (as hath beene said) and mee∣ting [ 40] * 1.375 with Ismaels army, fought with him, of whom he gate a glorious victory, chiefly by meanes of his artillery, the vse whereof was then vnknowne to the Persians. In regard wherof the great dangers were plainly discerned which threat∣ned other Realmes and Prouinces, by reason of Selims fierce and haughty cou∣rage, who for this fortunate successe was become more proud and insolent. And that which did most manifest it, was, that at the same time that hee made warre in Persia, Soliman his sonne entring Hungary, did spoile the country with great* 1.376 numbers of horse, and had already taken diuers townes.

The Pope was desirous to remedy it, and caused great leauies of souldiers to be made in Hungary, who tooke for their badge a red crosse, calling themselues [ 50] the Crossed, taking armes for the defence of Christian religion against the In∣fidels. But this leauy of souldiers, which were thought would haue aided and* 1.377 releeued the King of Hungary, did in a manner ruyne him: for, weapons beeing

put into the hands of the peasants of that country, who are deadly enemies to the* 1.378 Nobility, they committed infinite riots, and threw the Realme head-long into greater dangers: wherewith the Pope beeing troubled, turned all his thoughts to the peace of Italy, and for that purpose, he sent to Venice Petro Bembo, his Se∣cretary, a Venetian Gentleman, who beeing come thither, spake to the Senate in this manner.

That Pope Leo his affection towards the Republike had euer beene sound:* 1.379 That he was still greeued by their losses and afflictions, as the care which he hath had of them, might largely witnesse: Besides there was nothing more sure, then that his whole deseignes and ayme did euer tend to peace, and if hee had at any [ 10] time taken armes, it was of necessity and by constraint. That hee had euer em∣braced their common-wealth with a fatherly loue, and had neuer ceassed to ex∣hort, admonish and entreat them to fit themselues to the time: by which offices he thought that he had sufficiently discharged his duty, and perceiuing that all which he had done was to no purpose, he had determined to giue ouer the busi∣nesse, and no more to talke of peace, wherein hee had so often laboured in vaine. Yet neuerthelesse hauing of late changed his minde, and compared the time pre∣sent, with the antient affection which he had borne to the Republike, he had now sent him to them, to exhort them in his name, to respect their owne liberty and the safety of all Italy, and to embrace the best and wholesommest councell: They [ 20] should doe well to consider the manner of the French proceedings, their great desire to command, and their immeasurable cruelty towards the vanquished. That King Lewis his great desire to recouer the Dutchy of Milan, was only af∣terward to make himselfe Master of all Italy. For, hauing once ouercome Maxi∣millian Sforza, and wholy expulsed him from his fathers state, hee beleeued that the way would bee easily opened to him for the attayning therevnto, and for a∣busing, by meanes of other Italians, the Venetians liberty: whereas they had in time past made alliance with the French, enforced therevnto by great necessity, they had done well, in respect of those times: But now to bee allied with them was most dangerous, in regard, that thinking to assure themselues, it was to [ 30] be feared, that they would precipitate their common-wealth into ruine, by the friendship of the French, which is not wont to last long, and therefore it were bet∣ter to haue them farre off then nere at hand: That diuers recent examples might teach them the fidelity and constancy of that Nation, who had forsaken the King of Nauarre, being driuen forth of his Realme for their seruice, and because hee would not abandon their friendship, with many others likewise who had well de∣serued of the Realme of France, towards whom they haue vsed the like ingrati∣tude: and therefore they were not to hope, since they had beene forgetfull of their neighbours, that they would prooue more louing to the Venetians, who are strangers: and namely that the French had sworne the totall ruine of their Re∣publike, [ 40] at such time chiefly as they had receiued infinite benefits of the Veneti∣ans, and had beene in no sort offended by them, and that they might with honour haue compounded with the Emperor. They should doe well then to resolue, to keepe the French armies farre from Italy: That it was against reason to beleeue, that the French hauing conquered the state of Milan, would conteine themselues within their bounds, & not fly out vpon other mens confines. That the Venetians being wearied with so many wars, ought henceforth to embrace peace, & quiet, to which their was nothing more contrary, thē the comming of the French into Ita∣ly, by which it was sure to susteine a cruell war: where, on the contrary, if the com∣monwealth would agree with the Almains and Spaniards, & with al the Potentats [ 50] of Italy, to expel the French; the only report of that alliance would be sufficient to make them to lay down their armes, & to change their present purpose to repasse the mounts and to come into Italy, which by that meanes might become quiet and peaceable. But if yee shall contemne this councell, the Pope will take God

and men to witnesse, that he hath in no sort beene wanting to the common good of Christendome, and to the particular proffit of the Venetian common-wealth. That they were besides to beleeue, that he could ere then haue embraced those parties which doe now presently offer themselues to his aduantage, and perhaps he would accept them, by allying himselfe with the Emperour and Spaniards, to their hinderance, of whom so often he hath had great care, and yet to no purpose. They had no need to craue any greater assurance of him; for the interest of the Sea Apostolike, and that of their Republike was all one, so as both of them ranne one selfe same fortune, being in a manner, both the one and other subiect to like [ 10] accidents. That they were likewise to remember that men oftentimes are ruled by their owne particular passions rather then by reason, as then, when to be re∣uenged on Lewis Sforza, they threw themselues headlong into manifest danger, by associating for their fellow in armes, a forraine King, most mighty, who was to be a neighbour to their state, in stead of a weake Prince, and their countryman. Therefore they should doe well to aduise themselues how to reape some fruit by the Popes fauor and good will, the which til then they had with great care sought to entertaine.

With these or such like speeches Bembo executed the tenor of his commissi∣on: but the Senate, (the matter hauing beene determined) thought it neither ea∣sie* 1.380 nor safe to allie themselues with the Emperor and Spaniards; wherevpon [ 20] with a generall consent it was concluded, to continue in the friendship and alli∣ance of the French, and to make this answere to the Popes Ambassador.

That his Ambassador was greatly pleasing to the Senate as well in respect of* 1.381 himselfe, whose vertue and particular affection towards their country was suffi∣tienly knowne to all men, as likewise in regard of the Prince that sent him, seeing they had euer borne great honour and reuerence to the soueraigne Bishops of Rome, and were particularly inclined to Pope Leo. That the Senate had euer highly esteemed his good and wholesome councell: but the mischiefe was, that by how much, they, aboue all others, had desired his friendship and alliance, in that vncertainty of all things, by so much more were they continually kept from [ 30] it. And al-be-it their loue was neuer disioyned from him, yet their forces were euer diuided. As then they did humbly thanke the Pope, and confessed them∣selues much bound vnto him, in that hee had beene euer ready by diuers good offices to embrace and fauour their cause, euen so likewise they were extreame∣ly grieued that they could not follow his councell, their antient custome not per∣mitting to leaue an old alliance for a new, especially not being prouoked there∣vnto by some wrong, their antient fathers thinking that alone to bee pro∣fitable, which was most honest: and that therefore they could not, with∣out great blemish to their reputation, breake and abandon the alliance [ 40] which they had already contracted with the French. And if the Pope would call to minde the antient benifits of the French Kings, not onely to the Ve∣netian common-wealth, but likewise to the Church: and to consider the wealth and power of that Kingdome, hee would not onely excuse, but commend the Venetians councell, and bee desirous himselfe to follow it, because that beeing backed by the French forces and those of the Venetians, there was likelihood that he should be able to lay surer foundations, as well for the state of the Church, as for the greatnesse and aduancement of his owne house.

This speech beeing pronounced by Prince Lauretan, they made priuate remonstrance to Bembo, how the Senate did greatly suspect, that vnder that [ 50] * 1.382 treaty of peace some deceit might lurke, in regard it was practized by the Em∣peror & by Ferdinand, being assured that vnder collour of agreement, they wold, as at diuers other times, practize some dangerous warre on the Venetians: because that at the same time as the Spanish Ambassadour delt with the French King cōcerning the affaires of Italy, Ferdinand had reuiued this treaty of peace, to none

other end but to cause the French King to suspect the Venetians friendship, and thereby to separate himselfe from them, the better afterwards to enforce them to agree with him, to his owne great aduantage: and that the same comming to* 1.383 passe, the Venetians being so diuided from the French, what should hinder Fer∣dinand to make himselfe master, and quiet possessor of all Italy, as long time be∣fore then, he had aspired thereunto.

Bembo being returned to Rome, reported all this to the Pope: but before he left Venice, he assured the Venetians, that the Pope would neuer suffer any man to attempt against their State, knowing very well that on them depended the li∣berty of Italy, and that he was to rely on them for the greatnesse and mainte∣nance [ 10] of the house of Medicis. The Venetians made declarations that they did not greatly care for that agreement, for thereby they should be depriued of the richest and goodliest city belonging to their state, which was Verona: and* 1.384 that which maintained them therein was, the hope which they had that the French King would shortly come into Italy. For King Lewis being prouoked with a de∣sire to recouer the Dutchy of Milan, had made peace with Henry King of Eng∣land, and made preparations to repasse the mounts, and to come into Lombar∣dy with a mighty army, wherevnto the Venetians being ioyned, they hoped with ease to chace their enemies from their bounds and confines.

This hope caused them to send Ambassadors to the French King, and to the [ 20] * 1.385 King of England their friends, for to continue them still in their affection towards them, and to this end were appointed Francisco Donato, and Petro Paschalic, but in Donato his stead, who fell sicke, Sebastian Iustinian was sent thither.

Their chiefe commission was to congratulate both of them for the peace and alliance contracted betwixt them (King Lewis hauing married King Henries sis∣ter) and to thanke them, for that in the treaty of agreement made betwixt them, they had therein comprehended the Venetians, by name, as their friends and con∣federates.

That they should moreouer assure the French King that the Senate did beare the same loue-towards him as it had done in times past, determining to preferre [ 30] his friendship before any others, resoluing to renue the warre, if he so pleased, and that to that end they should councell him to returne speedily into Italy, where he should find the Venetian forces ready to ioyne with his. Now whilest these Am∣bassadors were on their way, King Lewis, died: for as hee ouer ardently tooke his pleasure on the excellent beauty of his new wife, who was not aboue eighteene* 1.386 yeeres old, not remembring his age nor the weakenesse of his complexion, he was taken with a feuer, beside which, being troubled with a continuall flixe, hee soone departed out of this present life, and made the first day of the yeere 1515. famous by his death. It was thought that his death would haue bread great al∣terations. Yet for all that they did not call backe the Ambassadours, but com∣manding [ 40] them to goe forward on their iourney, they were enioyned to stay at a certaine place, to expect a new commission from the Senate. King Lewis was a lust Prince, and welbeloued of his subiects; who neither before that hee was King, nor afterward did euer finde either bad or good fortune firme and constant to him.

The ioy which they had of King Lewis his death, who desired not the returne* 1.387 of the French into Italy, lasted not long. For Francis Duke of Angoulesme succeeded Lewis the twelfth, as the next in ligne Masculine of the Royal bloud, and of the very race of the Dukes of Orleance, whose vertues and magnanimity was admired of all men, who with the title of French King did likewise take that [ 50] of Duke of Milan, as belonging vnto him, not only by the antient claime of the Dukes of Orleance, but as being comprized in the inuestiture which the Empe∣rour made, according to the treaty of Cambray: and besides, he had the same desire to recouer it, as his predecessor had: The which he neuerthelesse dissem∣bled

for the present, seeking first of all to practize the friendship of other Princes, diuers of whose Ambassadors came forth-with to him, whom hee graciously re∣ceiued, and among others, those of the Venetians hauing had new commissions sent vnto them to Lyons where they staied: with whom he confirmed the league in the same forme as it had beene made with his predecessor, and he caused the Bishop of Ast to doe the like in his name, who being sent to Venice by King Lew∣is, tarried still there.

The Venetians, who already did make great account of the friendship of the* 1.388 French, and had enioyned Marco Dandulo their Ambassador to sound what the [ 10] new Kings minde was concerning their alliance and confederacy, were excee∣ding glad when they receiued his letters, and had seene the Bishop of Ast his commission, praising his gentlenesse, beeing desirous to shew how highly they e∣steemed his friendship, and therefore they commanded their Ambassadors to giue him great thankes, for the loue which he seemed to beare to their Repub∣like, and his desire to aide and succour them, promising him to employ themselues with like affection in ought that should concerne his seruice, and would vse meanes that the French might againe hold some dignity in Italy, to the enemies feare and terror, and to the maintenance and stay of the Republike their friend and confederate: They should likewise perswade him to hasten his iourney, and [ 20] assure him that the chiefe point of victory consisted in speed, and not to giue the enemies leisure, who were now weake, to strengthen themselues; as also for feare least the City of Crema, which did import much for the recouery of the State of Milan, should incurre some danger, in regard it had of a long time endured many discommodities of warre, so as it was reduced to the last extremity, being out of hope of hauing any longer truce with the enemies, it being almost expi∣red, expecting euery day when Prospero Colonna with new forces would come a∣gaine to beseege it. They should likewise assure him, that the Senate would ne∣uer faile of their duty, hauing already made new prouision of souldiers for the land army, of armour and munition, and giuen order to arme certaine Gallies [ 30] to amuze the enemy as well by sea as land, and that the King should for his part doe the like.

The Venetian Ambassadors hauing executed their commission with the King* 1.389 in the City of Paris, went into England to finish the remainder of their Ambas∣sage, where being curteously enterteined, they declared at their first audience the great sorrow and griefe that the Venetians had for the death of King Lewis his brother in law, a very mighty Prince and a great friend to the Republike, then they gaue him many thankes for the great correspondence betwixt them, for that* 1.390 in the conclusions of peace, as well with King Lewis, as since then with King Fran∣cis, he was euer desirous that their common-wealth, as his good friend, should be [ 40] especially named and comprized. And afterward the Ambassadours being in priuate with the King, did earnestly entreate him, that it might please him by his authority to perswade the French King, according to the desire he had to har∣ken to the affaires of Italy, to giue aide and succour to the Venetians, and incite him to put in practize his said desire. That in the meane time the peace and al∣liance betwixt them might continue firme and inuiolable, from which would proceed nothing but good to both partes, and bee very commodious for all Christendome.

After both the Ambassadors had in this sort accomplished their charge, Iu∣stinian remained in England with King Henry, and Paschalic returned into France [ 50] * 1.391 to doe the like there, who beeing come to Paris receiued letters from the Senate, whereby he was commanded to goe with speed into the Low countries to the Arch-duke to congratulate him for his marriage and for the peace, whereof the common-wealth was very glad, which they would haue to be signified to him by their Ambassador.

After this manner did the Venetians striue to entertaine the friendship and alliance of fortaine Princes, fitting themselues to the time. But their greatest* 1.392 care was how to find meanes to draw the Pope to their side, and to ioyne him with the French, whereof they had some hope by reason that Iuliano de Medicis the Popes brother, who could doe much with his Holinesse, had married Phi∣liberta sister to the Duke of Sauoy, and a very neere kinsewoman to the French King, by which they supposed that hee would fauour the French: and that the Pope in time to come, would more encline to them then he had hither vnto done, perceiuing that the Realme of France beeing strengthened both by kindred and confederacy with England, and the Arch-duke, nothing was able to hinder King [ 10] Francis from growing great in Italy, and from being feared there. Yet for all that the Pope being tossed to and fro with his accustomed doubts and difficul∣ties, had no firme or certaine resolution, for now he tooke part with one, and anon with an other: sometimes being vanquished with feare he inclined to the friend∣ship of the French, but he did oftner and more willingly discourse with the Am∣bassadors of the Emperour and King Fernand, and made answere to the Veneti∣ans, who spake to him about it, that they might draw some thing from him, that hee would bee a looker on, and see what the issue of the warre would bee, inten∣ding to ioyne with the Conquerour. But hee did not imagin in his heart that the French King would euer passe into Italy, so as if King Francis had already pas∣sed [ 20] the mounts with his army, yet he would not beleeue it.

The Venetians beeing acquainted with his humour, sent Marin Georgio their Ambassador to Rome, with expresse commission to tell him, That he was of ne∣cessity* 1.393 to shew himselfe otherwise then hithervnto hee had done, and to doe his best to alter his former opinion, and to that end he should make the French Kings forces to bee very great, and giue him to vnderstand how that seeing his Realme was out of daunger of forraine warres, he might without contradiction and on a sodaine turne towards Italy, wherevnto he was much enclined in re∣gard of his desire to conquer the State of Milan, that there was nothing so hard* 1.394 or difficult that was able to diuert him from this deseigne: That the Venetians [ 30] had the same will to renue the warre, and to ioyne themselues with the French: That they euer desired as well in peace as warre, to be vnited to the Sea Aposto∣like, to runne the selfe same fortune with it, and had greatly laboured to haue it so. But not being able to obtaine it of his Holinesse, and perceiuing the hope of the victory to be very great on the French side, the Venetians were resolued not to abandon their friendship and aliance, thinking that by so doing, they had dis∣cree•…•…ly prouided for their affaires: The which he likewise ought to doe, hauing first maturely considered whatsoeuer might hinder or delay the Kings intent; and finding none at all, to preserue by so doing the papall authority and Maiesty, to∣gether with the possessions of the Church: That there was but onely one reme∣dy [ 40] left in all this, which was, that the Pope would vnite himselfe with the French and Venetians, because that the Swisses being forsaken by his Holinesse, and by his succors, would of a certaine giue ouer the defence of Maximilian Sforza, and lay downe their armes which they had taken against the French, so as the confe∣derates being depriued of that aide, should be enforced to change their mindes: the Emperour would no more thinke on the affaires of Italy, and Fernand would satisfie himselfe with his kingdome of Naples; wherevpon, others might recouer what belonged vnto them, namely the French, the State of Milan, and the Vene∣tians those Cities which had beene wrongfully taken from them, and thereby a firme and sure peace might be established. [ 50]

All these goodly discourses could smally preuaile with the Pope to make him* 1.395 alter his opinion: but on the contrary, continuing firme in his first determinati∣on, he thought in himselfe that he might easily induce the Venetians to doe what he pleased. But perceiuing that to deale with them by faire and gentle meanes,

hee should neuer obtaine his desire, hee resolued to vse seuerity and rigor. Hee caused to be published ouer all the Churches territories, that no subiects or Vas∣sals belonging to the holy sea, should vpon paine of most greeuous censures, beare arms vnder the Venetians pay; commanding al Captaines as wel of foot as* 1.396 horse, to come with al speed to the Spanish campe, with their soldiors and horses, going about by that meanes in such sort to diminish the Venetians forces and reputations, as being encompassed with so many mischeefes they should be at last enforced to haue recourse vnto him, and to doe his pleasure: but the Venetians on the contrary continued firme, and constant in their alliance, hoping by that meanes of the French, to be able to maintaine and defend their owne state. [ 10]

King Francis in the meane time beganne very carefully to gather together ve∣ry great summes of mony, and to encrease the ordenance of his men at armes,* 1.397 to the number of foure thousand, publishing abroad that his meaning was not to make warre on any one, for that yeare, but onely to make head against the Swisses, who threatened to assaill Burgondy or Daulphinè, if so bee hee should refuse to fullfill the conuentions made at Dijon in the name of the late King.

Many beleeued it, inregard of the example of some late kings, who would neuer incomber them selues with new wars the first yeare of their reignes: But the Em∣peror [ 20] and the King of Arragon were of another opinion, in regard of the Kings youth, and the greate preparations of warre which King Lewis had left behinde; where-vpon because they would not be taken vnprouided, they made meanes to confederate themselues with the Pope and the Swisses.

The Pope delayed it as much as he could: The Swisses on the contrary, whose heate against the French did not onely continue still, but dayly more and more* 1.398 encrease, did ally them-selues with the Emperor, the King of Arragon, and the Duke of Milan for the defence of Italy, reseruing place for the Pope to enter; wherein was concluded that the Swisses should enuade, either Burgondy or Dau∣phinè, and the Catholike King with a mighty army should come in by Fontaraby [ 20] or Perpignan, to the end that the French King beeing assayled at one time, in diuers and sundry places, might not bee able though hee would to trou∣ble the Dutchy of Milan, but should bee enforced to defend his owne country.

The French Kings intent was for a time kept close, vntill the greatnesse of his* 1.399 preparations could by no meanes bee any longer concealed, in regard of his huge prouisions of mony, with which hee waged very great numbers of Lance∣quenets; hee caused store of Artillery to bee carried towards Lyons, and had a while before sent Pedro of Nauarre, who was newly come to his seruice into Guy∣en to leuy ten thousand foot on the marches of Nauarre.

It being then apparant to all men, that warre was prepared for the Dutchy of [ 40] Milan, and that the King determined to goe thether in person, he openly craued to haue the Pope to ioyne with him, as well by the meanes of Iuliano his brother who was (as hath beene already said) allied to the King, as by his Ambassadors, to the end to be assured of his entent.

But the King soone beganne to bee out of hope, as well because the Pope had graunted to the King of Arragon the Croizads of Spaine for two yeares, where∣by it was thought that hee would raise aboue a Million of gold, as by the faire and goodly promises, which hee made to those who pleaded for him, and yet without any resolution at all; besides it was wholy in vayne, for hee had already* 1.400 before made a very secret conuention with the others for the defence of the [ 50] stta•…•…e of Milan, the which neuerthelesse hee would not haue yet to be knowne, till such time as he had found out some more apparant pre•…•…ence, whereby he might say that hee had beene enforced therevnto, because the King would not graunt him what hee demanded, but the King condescended to all his

requests, and notwithstanding all this hee made diuers doubtfull and irresolute answers.

The King not tarying any longer for his replies, being come to Lyons, accom∣panied with all the French nobillity, made Charles of Burbon Constable of* 1.401 France his Liuetenant Generall to command in the warre, if him-selfe went not thither in person, whereof hee yet doubted, promising to him-selfe the certainety of the victory by reason of his great forces, for hee had in his Army two thousand Lancequenets, conducted by the Duke of Guelders, ten thousand Basques or Gascons, eight thousand French, and three thousand Castadours. For of all* 1.402 the enemies army there was none to bee feared but the Swisses, who continually [ 10] came downe into the Dutchy of Milan, so as already more then twenty thousand of them were there arriued, tenne thousand of whome, being come neere to the mountaines, did vndertake to gard the streight passages of those va∣lies against the French.

This determination of the Swisses did greately trouble the Kings mind, be∣cause* 1.403 it was an hard matter, in regard of the valour of that nation, to driue them from those strong and narrow passages. The rest of the confederates hauing left sufficient garrison for the defence of those townes which they had snatcht from the Venetians, were not able to leuy the one halfe of a stronge Army.

Whilest France made these preparations, vpon the report of the Kings [ 20] comming into Italy, the Viceroy of Naples, who for a time had beene at truce with the Venetians in the Vincentine territory, made shew to bring backe his army to Verona, (as hee said) to the ayd of the Duke of Milan, but it was to seaze on Vincenza, in regard of the fit season that then was to make silke, where∣with the country doth greatly abound, hoping from thence easily to draw* 1.404 meanes to pay his army. But Aluiana being aduertized of this deseigne, left Pa∣dua, where hee then lay, and passing speedily on the Vincentine Territory, leading along with him sufficient troupes to gard the Citty, and to breake the enemies enterprise, whereby the inhabitants had leasure to gather their silkes, and to trans∣port them to a place of safety. [ 30] * 1.405

That done, Aluiana, retyred towards Padua, (the Spanish forces dayly encrea∣sing,) and encamped with Rance de Cera at Brentelles, two miles distant from Pa∣dua, where hee taried many dayes, because the Senate had willed him not to stirre from thence with the army before hee were certaine of the enemies purpose, to the end not to goe into any place, where hee might bee enforced to come to handy stroakes, and to tempt fortune, fearing if hee should receaue any losse, it might happen to keepe backe King Francis, who affirmed that the cheefe hope of his designes depended on the Venetians, and therefore discoursing with their Ambassador resident with him, hee did councell him that his country-men should not hazard ought, before his arriuall in Italy it beeing indiscretion to hazard the [ 40] successe of that warre on a small part of those forces which hee hoped would* 1.406 be great, being vnited together, Yet notwithstanding, the Venetian soldiors made often incursions, cheefely the light horse, vnder the command of the Cap∣tains Mercurio Buono, and Giouan de Nalda, who did greatly molest the ene∣mies, taking great Booties from them, as well from Rouigo, as on the Veronois.

In this sort did the two Armies, Venetian and Spanish, behaue them-selues for a certaine time, without any other attempts, still expecting newes of the French army, who leauing the realme freed from the feare of warre, were ready* 1.407 to passe the mounts. [ 50]

For neither the Spaniards nor Swisses, did euer goe according to their treaty of Confederacy, the one to enuade Burgondy, and the other the confines neere to Spaine, but the Swisses went and encamped at Suze, Pigneroll and Salusses, to stop the entry of the French into Piedmont, and the Spaniards

kept himselfe in Lombardy with the Popes troopes, of whom Iuliano de medicis, his brother, was Generall.

The French then marched forewards on the fifteenth day of Iuly towards the Alpes, and being come to Grenoble they were enforced to make some stay there to resolue vpon their way they were to hold, for all the waies were so difficult, as well in regard of the nature of the places, as for the gard in them, that it was im∣possible to possible to passe without danger if they would goe the ordinary high way which leadeth into Italy by Piedmont, the Suisses keeping the narrow passages of the mountaines, but there was another way betwixt the sea and Coctian Alpes, de∣scending towards the Marquisate of Salusses, by which they might carry their or∣dnance [ 10] beyond the mounts, not without wonderfull difficulty, because they could not do it but by the strength of men and engins.

The King resoluing wholly to passe on howsoeuer, would needs goe directly o∣uer the Alpes, whereby the French in three dayes came to the hill of Argentire,* 1.408 where taking the way on the left hand, and ouercomming all the bad wayes, they came on the fourth day vpon the confines of the Marquisate of Salusses, without any stop at all, because no man would euer haue thought that it had beene possi∣ble to bring the Artillery ouer such steepe and sharpe mountaines, and the Suisses being lodged at Suza were ready to gard the waies by which they must passe which commeth downe by mount Senis, or mont Geneura, or the hills neere [ 20] thereunto. But they hauing intelligence that the French had passed by an other way, being amazed thereat, forsooke those passages and retired to Nouara: which gaue hope to the French to be soone able to end that warre, and without any* 1.409 great bloodshed to conquer the State of Milan, knowing that the Suisses are by nature light-headed, seditious, mutenous, and desirous of nouelty, and aboue all thinges, very couetous to get money: by which meanes the King thought sodain∣ly to winne them.

Great promises of sommes of money were made to diuers of the cheefest of them if they would preferre the certaine offer that was made them before their first heate of warre, and not hazard the vncertainty of a Battaile. [ 30] Wherevpon they were desirous to returne home, and in a brauery demanding their pay, they forsooke their Ensignes, and refused to obey the commandements of their Generall and other their Captaines, alledging for excuse of their altera∣tion, that the affaires of the French at their entry into Italy, had prosperously suc∣ceeded: and how on the contrary, whatsoeuer the Suisses had vndertaken, had re∣dounded to their shame and losse, and therefore they were minded to depart, and no longer to draw out the warre at length.

The French in the meane time hauing passed the mounts, the Lord La Palisse came speedily with foure Cornets of light horse, beeing lead by people of the [ 40] Countrey to Villa Franca, (a towne seauen miles distant from Salusses, where Prospero Colonna with his company was lodged, not doubting any thing, by rea∣son of the great distance of the enemies,) from whence some said, that he would* 1.410 depart the same day, to ioyne with the Suisses. It is neuerthelesse certaine that he sate at meate, and dined at such time as La Palisse his souldiers arriued, who were not descryed by any before they came neere the house, because those of the towne, with whom La Palisse had intelligence, concerning that great booty, had already secretly agreed to keepe them-selues very quiet, and had seazed on the scoutes and Sentinels. Prospero Colonna that famous Captaine was thus taken prisoner, and Petro Margare the Romaine with him, others at the first noyce saued them∣selues and escaped by flight. [ 50]

The passage of the French, and the taking of Prospero Colonna, did change all* 1.411 mens mindes, and altogether the whole state of the affaires, causing new altera∣tion in the mindes of the Pope, the viceroy of Naples and the Suisses. For the Pope perceiuing that the King had passed contrary to his hope, and that Prospero

Colonna was taken prisoner, in whome hee cheefely trusted, hee commanded his Nephew Lorenzo, Generall to the Florentines in sted of his brother Iulian, who lay sicke at Florence, to proceed slowly: then hee secretly dispatcht Cintio his fa∣milliar friend to the French King, to excuse him for what had passed, and to begin to treate with him, if so bee it should fall out badly for the Dutchy of Milan.

The Viceroy of Naples likewise carried him-selfe other-wise then he had done. For remayning still at Verona, expecting meanes to cause his soldiours to march, and new companies promised by the Emperor to leaue in Verona and Bressia, he with these excuses began to deferre his departure, because he would first see what would become of the Dutchy of Milan. [ 10]

The Swisses in like manner beeing amazed at the Kings passage came on a so∣daine to Pignarol and from thence to Nouara (as hath beene said) where they be∣ganne to treate of agreement with the King. In the meane time all the French* 1.412 troopes being reunited at Thurin, the King went to Verceill, where he stayed ma∣ny daies, expecting what would become of the treaty with the Swisses, who shew∣ed them-selues full of variety and confusion. For they beganne to mutine in No∣uara, where they lay, because they had not yet receaued the mony which the King of Arragon had promised them, and they did perforce take the mony from the commissaries which the Pope had sent them. And in this fury they departed from Nouara to returne home into their country, the which many of them did greatly [ 20] desire to doe: but they were scarce gon from Nouara, ere the King of Arragons mony was brought thither, wherevpon being better aduised, they redeliuered the Popes mony, that they might receaue both the one, and the other, according to the vsuall manner, by the hands of the commissaries. The King perceiuing his hope of agreement with the Swisses to decay, by meanes of these Variations, and by the comming of other new companies forth of Swisserland, departed from Verceill intending to goe and beseege Milan, leauing at Verceill with the Duke of Sauoy, the Dukes bastard brother, the Lord of Lautrec, & the General of Milan to continew the treaty begun with the Swisses. Diuers armies were in the field, as well for defence as to assail, but in such manner, as they were seperated in soun∣dry [ 30] places, not being able to ioyne together, because the enemies lay betweene* 1.413 them and home: by meanes whereof the King being desirous to ioyne with Alui∣ana, departed from Bufalore, and being come with his army to Biagrassa, whilest hee stayed there the Duke of Sauoy, with the other commissioners, whome the King had left at Verceill, had made peace with the Swisses in the Kings name. But this peace was almost in one day concluded and broken, by the arriuall of new Swisses, who being proud for their forepassed victories, hoping to carry home with them as great wealth, as they saw their fellowes laden with, they would not heare tell of peace, refusing to yeeld vp the valleis mentioned in the agreement: so as by this breach of peace, matters returned to their former difficulties, and to [ 40] much greater, in regard of the Swisses new forces, as also of those of the Viceroy and Lorenzo de Medicis who approched Milan. Aluiana in the meane time sent word to the French King, that he would so amuse the Spanish army, as it should haue no meanes to hurt him: and therefore so soone as hee vnderstood that the* 1.414 Viceroy was gone from Verona, he left the Pollesin of Rouigo, and hauing crossed the Adice, he speedily came along the riuer Po, with nine hundred men at armes, foureteene hundred light horse, and nine thousand foot, with greate store of artil∣lery neere to the walls of Cremona. The King according to Aluianas letters, came to Marignan, to giue him more easie meanes to ioyne with the royall army, and to stop the companies of the Church, and Spaniards, from doing the like with the [ 50] * 1.415 enemies. For it did greately import the king to haue the enemies force diuided in sundry places.

The King being come to Marignan stayed there, and wrot to the Venetian Senate, giuing them notice of his arriuall in Italy, and of the fortunate successe

of his affaires till then, together with the hope hee had that his deseignes would prosper, in regard that both their affaires were managed by one selfe-same Vni∣on and concord.

But in these interims, Rance de Cera who had well demeaned him-selfe against the enemies, being mooued with iealozy against Aluiana, for that hee would not bee enforced to obey him as Generall if the armies should come to ioyne toge∣ther,* 1.416 craued leaue of the Venetians to depart, who being not able to make them friends, did freely graunt it. Hee was a braue Captaine, and could not abide any superior, and Aluiana could not endure an equall, by meanes whereof they could [ 10] not agree together, wherevpon, hauing taken his leaue hee put him selfe into the Popes pay with two hundred men at armes, and two hundred light horse.

Marke Antonio Colonna in the meane time, who remayned for the gard of Ve∣rona,* 1.417 made a sodaine sally with three thousand foot-men and about seauen hun∣dred horse of all sorts, and went and scoured the Vincentine Territory, spoyling and wasting what-so-euer he met with. Albeit this did trouble the Venetians, yet could it not diuert them from their former determination, which was that Alui∣ana should ioyne with the French army, knowing well that if the French Kings affaires did prosper, this could not doe amisse.* 1.418

Foure armies were at one time in one country, very neere to one another. The [ 20] French army was of forty thousand men, among whome were fiue hundred men at armes, chosen out of the French Nobillity, excellently well armed and moun∣ted, who after they had seazed on Nouara and Paula, were come to Marignan, not farre from them lay the Venetian army, of twelue thousand foot and three thousand horse, which stayed at Lodi, both armies being well stored with artillery. Against these two were two other armies of the enemies, who for the same rea∣sons were enforced to remaine deuided one from another. That of the Pope and the Florentines ioyned with the Spaniards, was more esteemed for the old soldi∣ers then for the great number, and it was lodged neere to the Citty of Pla∣centia, on the banke of the riuer Po. The other was of Swisses which was said [ 30] * 1.419 to bee forty thousand men who at the pursute and perswasion of the Cardi∣nall of Syon, kept the Citty of Milan, which was well furnished with all ne∣cessaries.

This Cardinall returning from Placentia, whither he was fled, wondering that his country-men practized with the French king, relying on great numbers of sol∣diers newly come, which did fauor his party, he came among them who were al in a manner diuided, some of them not enduring to heare tell of war, and others not of peace.

And causing them al to come together on a day, he beganne with a very* 1.420 vehement and affectionate speech to incite them, without any more delay to go forth the same day and assaill the French King, and not to set so much before their [ 40] eyes the number the enemies horse and artillery, as to let it make them to forget the valour of the Swisses, and the victories obtained by them against the French. That it was not the artillery which gaue the victory, but onely the prowesse and valour of the soldier. And that besides the giuing of the victory, which he assured them of, they should consider the great wealth they were to get, as well by the spoyle of the French army, as by that of the whole state of Milan. And therefore hee willed them to aduance their pikes, with their vsuall courage, and sound their drums, and without delaying one houre of time to goe and vse their armes effec∣tually, and to glut them-selues with the bloud of those, who by their pride would molest the whole world, and by their basenesse doe euer become a prey to all men.

The Swisses beeing incited by these or such like speeches did furiously on a sodaine put on their armes, and going forth of the Citty did put them∣selues [ 50] * 1.421 in order of battaile, and albeit it was neere night, they marched

towards the French Army with such courage, as if they had already obtayned the victory, notwithstanding that diuerse of their Captaines thought it great rashnesse and a very dangerous matter to assaile the enemy in his camp, who was* 1.422 resolued for battaile. But the Cardinall of Sion fearing least delay might pro∣duce somthing contrary to his deseignes, and that as the desire of fight had easi∣ly enflamed their courages, it might as easily be quenched by the remonstrance of their Captaines of the contrary part, he gaue forth a false rumor among them that the French gathered togeather their baggage and prepared for their depar∣ture, and that their vantgard was already forth of their Camp, to goe and ioyne with the Venetian army, to retire afterwards to beseege Milan, wherevpon he [ 10] exhorted them to make hast to surprize the enemy in disorder who little doubted thereof. This exhortation was seconded by diuers Captaines of his faction who did greatly▪ praise his councell, and incited them to battaile, going vp and downe the rankes, making the like remonstrances, wherewith the soldiers being encouraged marched on with a speedy pace towards the enemies.

Now the French being aduertized of the Suisses comming towards them, albe∣it they were at the first greatly amazed, (as it happeneth in matters not foreseene nor premeditated) they did neuerthelesse forthwith put on their Armor, made ready their horses and all other things needfull for a battaile, then hauing taken courage, they placed themselues vnder their enseignes and opened them-selues [ 20] more at large. Their whole Army was deuided into three parts.

The Duke of Bourbon lead the Vant-gard, accompanied by the Lord of Tala∣mont,* 1.423 sonne to Trimouille, Iohn Iacomo Triuulcio, Pedro of Nauarre, and other famous Captaines, with all the Almaines, Gascons, and French. In the battaile was the King, about whom were the greatest part of the men at armes, and a choyce troope of Almaine souldiers, with the Dukes of Lorraine and Albany, the Lord Trimouille, Francis of Bourbon Count of Saint Paul, Odet of Foix, Lord of Lautrech, and diuerse others. The Duke of Alançon conducted the rere-ward, with the Lords La Palisse, and Aubigni, and the residue of the Cauallery. [ 30]

The Suisses in the meane time hauing left certaine companies of Soldiers vp∣on* 1.424 the rere-ward, had made of their whole Army but one body, which was very strong, and beeing well closed together, they went on furiously (that they might the better seaze on the Artillery) and gaue in vpon the Lansqnenets, who were at the front of the French Armie. These men suspecting that the French, accor∣ding to the common report, were agreed with the Suisses, and that they came on∣ly* 1.425 to assaile them, in regard of the deadly hatred betwixt these two Nations, opened them-selues, and suffered the first charge of the Suisses, who came furi∣oufly vpon them to passe on, where-vpon, they went directly towards the Ar∣tillery, which beeing perceiued by Pedro of Nauarre, hee on a sodaine called [ 40] vp his troopes, and caused them to keepe the place appointed to the Lansque nets, whereby the enemies passage was soone closed.

The Cauallery on the other side, and the King himselfe who was enuironed with a valiant troope of Gentlemen, comming against them, their great fury was in* 1.426 some sort cooled, and a very cruell battaile beganne, the which with diuers e∣uents continewed till fower howers within night, certaine French Captaines being already slaine, and the King himselfe stricken with diuers pushes of Pikes: at the last both sides being so weary as they were able to doe no more did seperate themselues and retired forth of the throng, without any commandement or sound of drumme or trompet. The Suisses lodged in the very same place expect∣ing [ 50] day, and they suffered one an other, on both sides, to rest that night, as if they had taken truce.* 1.427

The King in the meane time did not spend the remainder of the night vnproffi∣tably, but assembled his councell to determine what was to be done the day fol∣lowing,

hee caused the Artillery to be drawne backe, and planted in more com∣modious places, hee did reordaine the battaillons of the Lancequenets, who pro∣mised* 1.428 to amend their former daies fault, and to giue sufficient proofe of their faith and loyalty: and sent word to Aluiana, speedily to come and bring his for∣ces to the battaill. So soone as it was day the Swisses went and assailed the French with the selfe same fury of the day before, who valliantly receuied them, but with more discretion and better order, where vpon the Swisses were beaten, partly* 1.429 with the artillery, and partly with the Gascon Crosbowes, and by the horse∣men, so as they were beaten in Front and in Flanke, at such time as Aluiana who was sent for (as hath beene sayd) arriued with his light horse and with part of [ 10] his army in the greatest hast he could.

Hee arriued at such time as the battaile was most closed and most fierce, and when matters were in greatest hazard and danger. Hee gaue in with great fury vpon the Swisses backes, who neuer-the-lesse did still fight valliantly.

But at last dispairing of the victory, as well in regard of the great resis∣tance made against them, as by the arriuall of the Venetian army, they sounded* 1.430 the retreat, and retired with a soft pace towards Milan, keeping still their vsu∣all order, with such an amazement to the French army, as there was neither horse nor foote-troupes that had the courage to follow them, by reason [ 20] they were much tyred in the battayle, hauing fought without intermission from day-breake till none.

The end of the second Booke of the fifth Decade.

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

COntention among the Swisses, being retired to Milan after the battaill. Milan, and the whole Dutchy is reduced vnder the French obedience. The French Kings entry into Milan. Aluiana his enterprise on the Citty of Bressia, with the Vene∣tian army alone. The death of Aluiana, and the establishment [ 20] of Iohn Iames Triuulce in his place. The Venetians take Pescara. The French are present at the seege of Bressia. The Pope maketh motion of peace. Parma and Placencia are by the Pope yeelded vp to the French King. The enteruiew of the Pope and the French King at Bolognia. The Campe dislodg∣eth from before Bressia. Triuulcio giues ouer his charge. The Duke of Bour∣bon Viceroy in the Dutchy of Milan. The Lord of Lautrec with the Ve∣netian army comes againe before Bressia. The Popes practises to breake the seege of Bressia. The Emperor, the King of England and the Pope band them∣selues [ 30] against the French King. Manfron and de Bue are defeated by the Imperialls. The Lancequenets are defeated by Fregosa at the Castle of Ansa. The Emperor commeth with great forces into Italy, and beseegeth Asola. The French and Venetian armies retyre to Milan. The arriuall of the Swisses at Milan for the King. The Emperors shamefull retreate into Almaine, and the abandoning of his army. King Francis his complaints against the Pope. The Lord of Lautrec Gouernor of the Dutchy of Milan beseegeth Bressia the third time. Bressiayeeldeth vpon composition, Verona after diuers determi∣nations [ 40] being beseeged in two seuerall places is by the Almains freed from the seege. The contents of the treaty of Noyon. Verona by the same treaty is yeelded to the Venetians. The great ioy of the Venetians, together with the Ve∣ronois for that redition.

[ 50]

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

THE Swisses after the bataill being retired to Mylan, a very [ 20] * 1.431 great contention arose amongst them, some of them being desirous to make an agreement with the French King, and others to continue still for the defence of Milan. Those who demanded the acord, making another pretence, cra∣ued mony of Maximilian Sforza, the which they very well knew hee had no meanes to pay; but it was onely by that refusall to take an occasion to leaue him, the which they did by perswasion of Rost their Colonell, leauing fifteene hundred of their country∣men, with fiue hundred Italians, for the ga•…•…d of the Castle, promising Maximil∣lian neuerthelesse to returne to the aide of their fellowes, whome they left be∣hind. Vpon which promise Maximillian Sforza, accompanied by Iohn of Gon∣zaga, [ 30] and Ieronimo Morone, and by other Gentlemen of Milan, shut himselfe vp in the Castle.

The French after the Victory remaining maisters of the field, did with ease re∣duce vnder their power all the townes of the Dutchy of Milan. The Viceroy of Naples who all this while had not stird forth of the Placentyne Territory, being* 1.432 out of hope to bee able any longer to gard and defend the state of Milan, and fearing besides that the Pope had abandoned the league, hee retired into Ro∣magnia, and from thence soone after brought backe his army into the realme of Naples. The Cardinall of Syon perceiuing him-selfe to bee disgraced among his country-men, for the bad successe of the battaill, went to the Emperour [ 40] to solicite aide, the like did Francis Duke of Barri brother to Maximillian Sforza.

The Citty of Milan being thus abandoned, gaue itselfe to the French King;* 1.433 with entreaties that hee would forget what was past, promising to bee euer after more loyall and obedient, graunting to pay vnto him a very great summe of mony. The King refused to enter into it so long as the enemies held the Castle: but the Duke of Burbon came thither to receiue the Citty, in the Kings name, and gaue speedy charge to Pedro of Nauarre to attempt the taking of the Castle, who promised, contrary to the opinion of all-men, to winne it with∣in a moneth, where-vpon hee beganne to batter it with the Canon certaine daies together; then according to the vsuall manner, hee made mines, where∣by* 1.434 hee blew vp the walls and towers which were of a wonderfull height.

Sforza being daunted when hee saw a Case-mate and a part of the wall fly∣ing [ 50] in the aire, and being besides ill disposed of his person, making vse of the councell of some of his trustiest seruants, hee determined to receiue into the

Castle Antonio Bratan Doctor of the lawes, to make a draught of the agree∣ment and redition of that place, which he was resolued to yeeld vp to the French King, which imported, that Maximilian Sforza should presently consigne to the French King, the Castles of Milan and Cremona. That he should giue ouer vnto him all his claime to that state, and should receiue of the King a certaine somme of money for the paiment of his debts; and that he should goe into France where the King should giue him a yeerely pension of thirty thousand Ducats, or else should cause him to be made a Cardinall with the like reuenew. There were besides, diuers Suisses that were in the Castle, who were all of them well satisfied and pleased. [ 10]

These Articles being accomplished, the King entred in great magnificence in∣to* 1.435 the Citty of Milan, enuironed with the greatest part of his cauallery. Foure Ambassadors of the chiefest Senators of Venice came thither to him, namely Vntonio Gr•…•…mani, Dominico Treuisan, George Cornare, and Andrew Gritti, as well to congratulate him for his victory, as to entreat him, as hee was tyed by the capitulations of the confederacy, to helpe them to recouer their Citties.

The King after that he had gratiously receiued and entertained them, com∣manded speedily the bastard of Sauoy and Theodore Triuulcio to aid them with* 1.436 six dundred lances and seauen thousand Lancequenets: But because they delay∣ed [ 20] their departure, vntill they had seene what would become of the Castle of Milan, or else because the King would send the same companies, before that of Cremona. Aluiana (whom the Venetians would not suffer to follow the viceroy)* 1.437 marched with his army towards Bressia, to trie if he could take it by force, accor∣ding to the Senates direction, who desired (that all matters being laid aside) he should seeke to recouer Bressia and Verona: in regard whereof Aluiana ha∣uing passed ouer the riuer Adda, marched directly to Bressia, the Citty of Bergamo beeing yeelded vnto him presently after the rout of the Suisses.

Now in the Venetians Campe there was diuersity of opinions among the [ 30] Captaines, some of them thinking it much better to goe first and beseege Vero∣na for diuerse important reasons, and cheefely because that beeing taken, all the Townes and Castles of the Veronois would soone yeeld, the which* 1.438 would not so fall out by the taking of Bressia. The Senate at first was of this opinion, but because they would not spend the time vainely in that determi∣nation, they referred that businesse to Aluiana his discretion, who because Bressia was neerer to the French Campe, hee marched thither, hoping to take it with ease; for hee thought that Bressia had not so strong a garrison as Verona.

But Icaro the Spanish Captaine beeing wise and subtill, who commanded [ 40] Bressia, hauing intelligence of Aluiana his deseigne, had speedily caused a* 1.439 thousand footmen to come thither from Verona, with store of victualls and other necessaries to sustaine a seege; and had handled it so cunningly, as Aluiana had no knowledge thereof, who made account so soone as hee should approach the walles to giue an assault in diuers and sundry places: But by the sodaine and vnexpected arriuall of the new ayde, hee found more resi∣stance there then hee look't for, and hauing greatly laboured in his approa∣ches,* 1.440 a greeuous feeuer seazed on him, which enforced him to leaue the Campe, and to retire to Gueda, in the Bressan Countrey, where hee departed out of this world about the beginning of October, in the yeare of our Lord, [ 50] one thousand, fiue hundred, and fifteene, not beeing fully three score yeares of age; wherewith the Venetians were greatly greeued, but the souldiours much more, who kept his body fiue and twenty dayes togeather in the

Army, carrying it with them when they marched in very great solemnity, then it was brought to Venice, where by a publique decree, it was very honorably buried in Saint Steeuens Church, where at this day his toombe is to be seene: And because he had euer made more esteeme of honor and reputation then of wealth, hauing left his wife and children poore, the Senate in acknowledgement* 1.441 of his good seruice, decreed, that euery moneth three score Ducats should be paid to his widdow, and as much to a sonne of his foorth of the publicke treasury so long as they should liue, hauing giuen them a goodly house in the Citty, with exemption from all taxes, and impositions, and that to euery of his three daugh∣ters should be giuen the somme of three thousand Ducats for their Dowry when [ 10] time should serue.* 1.442

After Aluiana his death, George Eme the prouidator did for a while command the army. The Venetians in the meane time entreated the King to giue them Iohn Iames Triuulce to be Generall of their forces, as well in regard of his experi∣ence, as for his renowne in martiall discipline, as also because for the common in∣clination towards the Guelphe faction, there had euer beene good wil and frend∣ship betwixt them and the same Republick. Whilest he prepared for his going to* 1.443 the army, the Venetian companies tooke Pescara hauing not▪long before defea∣ted certaine troopes of horse and three hundred Spanish footmen that went to releeue it; then they recouered Asola and Lona which the Marquis of Mantua [ 20] * 1.444 had abandoned.

Triuulce being arriued at the Venetian Army receiued letters from the Senate full of congratulations and entreaties that he would carry himselfe in that place, so as he had euer doone in all imployments: he did likewise receiue the army at the hands of George Eme the Prouidator, where he beganne to beare himselfe with great wisdome, and discretion and according to the Senates desire he be∣seeged Bressia, albeit it seemed very hard vnto him to take it without the French* 1.445 army, by reason that the Citty was strong, and that there were within it two thousand foot as wel Lancequenets as Spaniards, as also because winter aproach∣ed, and the weather was much disposed to raine, as the euent did not deceaue his [ 30] * 1.446 iudgement. For as they battered it with the Artillery which was planted vppon the very brinke of the dike, those within made a sally with fifteene hundred as wel Spaniards as Laucequenets, who giuing in vpon the guard of the Artilery which were a hundred men at armes and six hundred foot, they easily put them to rout. albeit that Iohn Paul Manfron did in some sort stay their fury with thirty men at armes.

They slew about two hundred foot, burnt the pouders and drew tenne peices of ordinance into Bressia; so as the Venetians were like that day to haue receiued a far greater losse, had not Triuulce come speedily thither with certaine foot companies and Cauallery, who enforced the enemies to retire, and reco∣uered [ 40] from them certaine peeces of ordnance which they were carrying away beside.

This disorder caused Triuulce to with-draw his armie, and to lodge it more at* 1.447 large, euen as farre at Coccai, ten miles distant from Bressia, expecting the com∣ming of the French, at whose arriuall, so soone as Triuulce had made new prouisi∣ons of artillery and munition, hee returned againe, and encamped before it: The French supplyes beeing conducted by the Bastard of Sauoy, which consist∣ed of fiue thousand Lansquenets, eight hundred men at armes, and cer∣taine* 1.448 peeces of ordnance, with all manner of prouision in aboundance, beeing ioyned with the Venetians, the Citty was by a generall consent besee∣ged, [ 50] hoping with those forces, and by the Soldiers diligence, casily to finish their enterprise.

Yet neuerthelesse it fell out otherwise then they thought, for the Lanquenets

refused to march against the citties of the Emperors obedience, where-vpon beeing dismissed the Venetians craued Pedro of Nauar of the King, who came* 1.449 thither in their sted, with fiue thousand Gascons and French: These being encam∣ped on the one side of the towne, and Triuulce on the other with the Venetian sol∣diers, the battery beganne in diuers places, the cheefe command of all matters, remayning in a manner to Triuulce, by reason that the bastard of Sauoy being sicke, was gone from the army.

After a long battery, no assault was giuen, because those within had made di∣uers rampiers, and very carefully prouided for all things necessary for defence, so as Pedro of Nauarre had recourse to his ordinary remedies, whereof hee had [ 10] not as yet made vse in that seege, by reason it was very painefull and laborious, and for that he likewise feared, least by meanes of the continuall rayne that had fallen of a long time, his deseigne might not fall out as hee desired. He beganne* 1.450 then to mine and sap the walls, but those within the towne suspecting the mat∣ter, because those of the Campe had giuen ouer their battery, hauing dilligently searched all ouer the Citty, if they could heare any noice of the miners, at last it was discouered, wherevpon they made a counter-mine, which being filled with powder and fired, they ouerthrew all that Pedro of Nauarre had done, and slew his people that wrought in it, so as in a moment all that was lost which had beene set forward in many daies. [ 20] * 1.451

The Venetians neuer-the-lesse did not dispaire of taking the Citty, but by streightly shutting them vp to stop alsuccors from comming to them, they hoped to win it, hauing had intelligence of the great want of all necessaries where-with the beseeged were aflicted, which at last would enforce them to yeeld, especially the Almaines, who are impatient of long suffering: as also for that they had not* 1.452 receiued any pay of a long time from the Emperor, by meanes whereof they re∣fused all military obseruation, and prepared them-selues to mutiny and rebellion. This being reported to Triuulce, he supposed that a faire occasion was offered to conquer the citty, where-vpon hee resolued not to stirre from thenoe, not∣withstanding the sharpnesse of the winter, the deepe snowes, and the long time [ 30] that hee had layne before it, knowing how much it concerned his reputation, if that which hee had begunne should not succede fortunately.

Hee beganne then straightly to shutte it vp on euery side, to the end that no victualls might enter it, nor no soldier of the towne might come forth, and for this purpose hee still entertayned them with light skirmishes. And because those of Verona did in the meane space scoure the Bressan Territory, and molest the Venetian Army, hee placed strong Garrisons in Pescara and Valegia to stoppe their incursions, and to shutte them more streightly vppe.

At the same time that Bressia was beseeged, there was some motion of peace, [ 40] the Pope seeking to accord the Emperor and the Venetians, hoping afterwards* 1.453 to bee better able to conclude peace with the French. But the Venetians being so often beaten with hope of those matters, without giuing any trust to the Popes words, did not assure their State on many, but onely on the friendship and alliance with the French, and to the end that their intent might bee knowne to all men, they refused all conditions propounded to them, whereof they were desirous to aduertize the French Ambassador resident at Venice, and that in like case, their Ambassadors which were at the court, should acquaint his Maiesty with the whole businesse, that hee might see how they accounted onely of his friendshippe, as the King did the like by their•…•… The which hee [ 50] made shew of to the Emperors Ambassadors, who came to him to talke of a∣greement from their Maister, whome hauing dismissed without any resolution, he did speedily aduer•…•…ize the Venetians thereof.

As concerning the Pope, the King had sundry thoughts. For al be-it his Ho∣linesse had forsaken him, at such time as hee thought him one of his greatest* 1.454 friends, he neuerthelesse did greatly desire his friendship, the which he had not left but by constraint. Therefore the Pope hauing sent his Nuntio to the King, vn∣knowne to the other confederates, he was curteously entertained by him, the King manifesting his hearty desire to enter into his Holinesse fauour: Yet neuer∣thelesse* 1.455 resoluing not to buy that at a deere rate which was offered, the Nuntio could obtaine nothing of his Maiesty, till the Pope had quitted and yeelded vnto him Parma and Placentia which he held.

The Pope could hardly be induced to quit those two Cities. At last, fearing [ 10] that by delaying the matter, some mischiefe might arise, he satisfied the Kings de∣sire, referring the accomplishing of the rest till their enteruiew, which by their mutuall consent was concluded to bee at Bolognia. The Pope for that purpose departed from Rome, and the King from the City of Milan, the Venetians Am∣bassadors did accompany his Maiesty, all Italy receiued great contentation by that assembly, hoping that it would produce an assured peace to the whole Pro∣uince. A legat was sent to the Emperour to treat of agreement betwixt him and the Venetians, and to haue him to remit Bressia and Verona to them for a pe∣cuniary recompence.

The Pope likewise sent a briefe to the Venetians, exhorting them vnto peace. [ 20] * 1.456 The Pope and the King being come to Bolognia, they couenanted together, That the King should take vpon him the protection of the Popes person, and the Churches State, of Iuliano and Lorenzo de Medicis, and the State of Florence. That the Pope should cause his forces to leaue Verona, and countermand those companies sent to the Emperors aide against the Venetians. Diuers other Ar∣ticles* 1.457 were concluded, concerning onely the proffit of either of them: In the which treaty hauing continued sixe daies together, both of them departed from Bolognia: the King thinking that he had done a great matter, to haue drawne the Pope to his side, and to haue disioyned him from his enemies.

The King being come to Milan, beganne to thinke on his returne to France, [ 30] hauing nothing to detaine him but the desire he had to see the Venetians re-esta∣blished in their Cities. Therefore he commanded to re-enforce the Venetians army which lay before Bressia, and had reduced the beseeged to that extremity, as all men thought that they would soone yeeld; for the Almaines and Spani∣ards that lay within it, had resolued together, that if within twenty daies they were not releeued, they would yeeld vp the City to the Venetians, on these con∣ditions neuerthelesse, to depart with displayed Enseignes, the drumme beating, with the artillery and all their baggage, which was the selfe same composition* 1.458 which they had concluded with the Venetians Generall. But the Almain suc∣cors came and entred the towne before the time agreed vpon was expired. [ 40]

The report of the comming of this aide had caused sundry opinions in the army, some of the being of opinion to continue the seege; others, to lead the army else∣where, but the report of the number of the Almaines being greater then the effect, and for that they had notice by their spies that Marke Antonio Colonna, who was* 1.459 come forth of Verona, & entred the Mantuā territory, made preparations to come and assaile them, caused the Venetian captaines, who feared that by staying there, the enemies might come and enclose them, to determine wholy to dislodge, and to bring the artillery to Crema and Cremona, and the rest of the army to Castle∣nedulla six miles off from Bressia.

These newes being brought to Venice did greatly amaze the whole City, be∣cause [ 50] they expected rather to haue heard of the taking of the City, then of any thing else. The Generall and the Prouidatory had written, that there was such* 1.460 strong Garrison at all passages, as it was impossible that any aide could enter in∣to it, which might keepe them backe from obseruing the agreement which they

had made, and that which caused them most to beleeue it, was that the French sup∣plies which were to come to the campe, being three thousand Almains and 400▪ horse, were departed from Milan and were on their way towards their campe.

This did much blemish Triuulcio his reputation, whereof he hauing notice,* 1.461 craued leaue of the Signory, That he might depart, saying that the affaires of his owne house called him thence, and that he could tarry no longer in their army. But the Senate knowing that this mans experience was much important for their affaires, vsed meanes to appease him by letters, and did entreate the King to cause him to take that charge vpon him, but he would by no meanes consent therevn∣to, but returned to Milan. Theodore Triuulcio tooke charge of the Venetian ar∣my, [ 10] and of the whole mannaging of the warre, holding the same authority in the army as Iohn Iames Triuulcio had done, al-be-it he had not the name nor degree of captaine Generall.

The King in the meane time hauing giuen order for his returne into France, left the Duke of Burbon for viceroy in the Dutchy of Milan, and before his de∣parture* 1.462 he commanded Odet of Foix Lord of Lautrec, to carry speedily greater aide to the Venetians, and generally to doe all matters for them, as if it were for his owne seruice, shewing thereby his great affection to the Republike, as in all other his speeches and discourses, not letting to say, that if the Venetians were not wholy restored to their Cities he would returne into Italy with greater for∣ces [ 20] * 1.463 then before.

The King being gonne forth of Italy, and the Duke of Bourbon tarrying there to command the Dutchy of Milan, the Venetians still kept an Ambassador nere to him, to sollicite whatsoeuer was needfull for their affaires, Andrew Treuisan was sent thither, who being come to Milan, Andrè Gritti who had remained there after the Kings departure to hasten the supplies, went to the army to be Prouida∣tor* 1.464 there, in stead of Dominico Contaren, that fell sicke, and was brought home to Venice. At the very same time, the Lord of Lautrec came to the army with great forces which did much encrease it, so as it seemed that there was no doubt but that Bressia would be taken. [ 30]

Now the Pope supposing that this successe did greatly crosse his deseignes, sought all meanes to hinder it. He propounded truce to draw the matter forth at length, hoping to cause the Venetians to condescend to some agreement, though it were to their disaduantage, by reason of the difficulty to take that City.* 1.465 And because he knew that himselfe could doe no good in that businesse, for the small credit which the Venetians did giue to his words, he determined to make vse of the King of Polands authority, whose Ambassador (hauing intelligences like∣wise at Venice) he perswaded to reuiue the treaty of peace, and to propound to the Venetians, that if they would disioyne themselues from the French, and allie themselues to the Emperor, they might add two goodly Cities to their State, Lo∣di, [ 40] and Cremona, because that with the Popes armes, the Emperours and their owne, being vnited together, they might easily expell the French, and afterwards by the King of Polands authority obtaine them of the Emperour in guift, so as be∣ing thus separated from the State of Milan, they might for euer after be incorpo∣rated to the Venetians demaines.

Besides this proposition the Pope, hoping that by the Generals absence the seege of Bressia might be prolonged, wrote to King Francis that it might please him to command the Lord of Lautrec to goe to Rome, being desirous to confer with such a man about diuers matters concerning the affaires of Naples, to which he knew the King enclined, wherevpon he exhorted him to make hast to beginne [ 50] the warre on that side, seeing that the King of Arragon was dead, and that Charles Duke of Burgondy hauing taken vpon him the name of Prince of Castile, made himselfe terrible to all those who held any States in Italy, and chiefly to himselfe.

But the Popes cunning being already knowne of a long time, caused no great

regard to be giuen to his speech. The Venetians thus continuing the seege of* 1.466 Bressia without harkening to any truce resolued not to stirre from thence till it was either yeelded vp, or taken by force. The Emperour, who had made warre but slowly the yeere before by his Lieutenants, determined to goe thither in per∣son, sought all meanes to make new stirres in Italy, assembled diuers Diets, craued aide, made great leauies of soulders, and aboue all, prouoked the Swisses to take armes to reuenge the death of so many braue men their companions, offering to be their captaine and not to abandon them in any trauaile or danger whatsoe∣uer. The King of England made the same request, being iealous of the glory [ 10] and reputation of the French, and for that the French King also had taken vpon* 1.467 him the protection of the King of Scots. The Pope did no lesse, but in more se∣cret manner. And all three of them promised good pay to those Swisses that would come, shewing them moreouer that the profit which would redound to them by that warre of Italy and by their alliance, would bee much greater then their hire.

The Venetian captaines in the meane time, after the arriuall of the Lord of* 1.468 Lautrec, did often sit in councel, where their opinions were very different, saying, That there was no great garrison within the towne, and that it was besides desti∣tute of all prouision, making but small doubt of the seege. But this opinion was [ 20] not receiued, by reason of the vnfitnesse of the time, which was in the middest of winter when it is not good to discampe and to lead the souldiers to a new facti∣on: As also because they thought it meere follie to quit a certenty, such as was the taking of Bressia, for the vncertaine successe of that which would happen be∣fore Verona. For they certainely knew that there was in Bressia such want of money, corne and al other kind of victuals, as it was of necessity soone to be theirs, either by agreement or by force, and this being verified by diuers, it was concluded by a generall consent not to stirre from thence, and that the City should be more streightlly looked to. In the campe there was plenty of all things, for the Senate was carefull to furnish it with all necessaries, notwithstanding all the impediments [ 30] which the enemies vsed against the purueyors which prooued vaine & to none ef∣fect. Marke Antonio Colonna, was the man, who being lodged at Verona, vsed all meanes to cut off victuals from the army, and to that end kept great numbers of Spaniards and horse-men at Legnaga, which they then possessed, so as by little and little, the enemies waxed so bold, as they came and scoured as farre as the Venetians campe whilest they were busied at their seege.

The Generall and the Prouidatori, thinking if they should endure that indigni∣ty, it would greatly blemish their reputation, sent Iohn Paul Manfron and Marke* 1.469 Antonio Bue with foure hundred men at armes, and foure hundred light horse to surprize them, but the designe succeeded badly: for Colonna being by his spies ad∣uertized of their comming, came forth of Verona with six hundred horse and fiue [ 40] hundred foot, and went speedily towards Valegia and met them in the field, and comming to handy-stroakes, he defeated them. At this incounter Iulio, son to Iohn Paul Manfron his horse being slaine vnder him in the fight was taken, & his father fled to Gueda. A more prosperous issue had the enterprise of Iano Fregosa, & Iohn* 1.470 Corardo Visin, marching with certaine companies as well of the one as other army to the castle of Anse to stoppe the passage of 3000. Lansequenets: for they slue 800. of them, and the residew escaped with the mony which they carried into Lo∣dron. All these exploits were great; but not of any great consequence in com∣rison of the totall of the warre, and of that which happened on report of the Em∣perors comming into Italy which dayly encreased, whereby both the assallants* 1.471 and the beseeged were shaken with diuers hopes and feare. The Emperor hauing assembled diuers foot and horse companies, & prouoked great numbers of Swisses [ 50] to take armes, was on his way to come into Italy, intending to enter by the mountaines of Trent, and to goe directly towards Verona, then to Bressia, and

leauing strong garrison in both those Cities, to passe on into the Dutchy of Milan to expell the French.

The Pope hauing notice of the Emperours entry into Italy, the better to ho∣nour him, and to acquaint him particularly with his loue towards him, created Bernardo de Bibiena Cardinall of Saint Mary in Porticu, Legat, and sent him to* 1.472 him, for that he was euer wont to shew himselfe on the Popes behalfe against the French, and to hinder their proceedings. But the Venetians, beleeuing verily that the Emperour would come into Italy, exhorted the French King to prouide for their common affaires, and not to suffer the Emperour and the Swisses, who* 1.473 enuyed his glory and greatnesse, to enioy the fruit of his labour and trauaile; and [ 10] that therefore he should either in person returne againe into Italy with a mighty army, or else augment that which he had here already, according to the worthi∣nesse of the cause, promising for their parts to spare nothing that might auaile him.

The King knowing that what they said was most true, tooke great care, not only for the danger wherein he saw the Dutchy of Milan, but because he should be enforced to put off his enterprize of Naples till some other time, wherevnto he greatly inclined. Resoluing neuerthelesse first of all to defend his owne E∣states and those of his allies, he propounded to the Venetians to wage, at their common charge eight thousand Swisses: because that he hauing at the same time [ 20] very opportunely renued his alliance with them, it was expresly agreed vpon that it should bee lawfull for the King to draw what number of souldiers he pleased forth of their country.

The Venetians soone agreed to giue pay to two thousand foot of that Nation,* 1.474 and readily to furnish money necessary for other expences of warre. And not∣withstanding that the publike treasury was much exhausted, and the whole City greatly afflicted with so long a warre, Yet neuerthelesse there was no want seene in any prouision for the army, nor in ought else that concerned the continuance of the warre. They made a leauy of foure thousand Italian foot, they did en∣crease their garrisons in the Cities, and created two Prouidatori, Paul Gradonico [ 30] and Lodouico Barbaro. In the Venetians campe were foure thousand Gascons* 1.475 and fiue hundred men at armes, commanded by French captaines: but amongst those souldiers, who were particularly vnder the command of Triuulce, were se∣uen thousand foot, and about fiue and twenty hundred horse, as well men at armes as light horse-men, and there staied with the Duke of Bourbon after the Kings de∣parture foure thousand Gascon and Italian foot-men, and seuen hundred men at armes.

Now all these forces being vnited together, with the Swisses who were already said to be arriued at Iuree to the number of sixe thousand, seemed to be sufficient to defend the State of Milan, and to make all the Emperours attempts vaine and [ 40] vnprofitable, al-be-it the report was that his army consisted of fiue and twenty thousand, which were no great good souldiers, especially the Almaine foot who* 1.476 had beene leauied forth of his countries in hast, and his Cauallery was well worse, so as his best forces were Swisses, whom the Emperour did well not to trust ouer much, as well in regard of the Nature of that Nation, which is variable and in∣constant, as for the small loue they beare to the house of Austria: so as the Em∣perours forces being such, the common opinion was to march against them as they approched, neuerthelesse they resolued on the contrary, and the whole army* 1.477 departing from the Bressan Territory, came vpon that of Cremona, whither the Duke of Bourbon a while before was come with all his Cauallery and foot, inten∣ding [ 50] there to stay for the Swisses, who were not yet arriued, and likewise to stop the enemies from passing on any farther.

The Emperour being come by Trent to Verona, went and encamped before Asola, which was garded by an hundred men at armes, and foure hundred

Venetian foot-men, where hauing spent diuers daies to no purpose, he was enfor∣ced to depart thence and crossed the Riuer Oglio at Orcinouo, wherevpon the French and Venetians determined to raise their campe, and hauing left three hun∣dred Launces and three thousand foot-men in Cremona, they retired on the far∣ther side of the Riuer Adicé, resoluing to stop his passage. But the French and* 1.478 Venetians were scarce gonne from thence, but the whole country, which lieth betwixt the Riuers, Oglio, Po, and Adda, were at the Emperours deuotion (Cre∣mona and Crema excepted) the one garded by French, and the other by Ve∣netians.

After that the Emperour had crossed Oglio, he drew nere to the riuer Adda to [ 10] passe it at Pisquetona, and finding the passage there to be very difficult, he came to Riuolta, the French lying at Cassiana on the other side of the Riuer: who by reason that the Swisses were not yet arriued, and that the Adda might be foorded* 1.479 in many places, they marched away the next day to Milan, whereby the Lord of Lautrec purchaced small honour, who had published and written to the King, that he would with ease stop the Emperors passage ouer that Riuer.

Maximillian being mooued at this retreat crossed the Adda, then he pursued his iourney, and being come within sixe miles nere to Milan, he sent an Herald to summon those of the City, threatning the Milanois, that if within three daies, they* 1.480 did not chace thence the French army, he would handle them in worse manner, [ 20] then Frederike Barbarossa his predecessor had done, saying that he was come into Italy, to receiue, according to the custome of his Ancestors, one of the markes of the Empire in the City of Milan, and to driue thence, and forth of all the confines of that State, the French, as vniust and vnlawfull possessors thereof. They an∣swered the Herald according to the pleasure of the French. That the State of Milan being in times past a member of the Empire, was by the consent of Empe∣rors cut off from it, for a summe of money giuen vnto them; in regard whereof Emperors, could no more lay any claime to it, the which was lawfully possessed by Francis the French King, as well for that it was his owne inheritance, as being likewise wonne by right of armes: and therefore that the Milanois would keepe [ 30] that City for their lawfull Lord, vnto whom they had sworne homage and fealty.

Notwithstanding this braue answere the whole City was filled with great a∣mazement, and their determinations were different. Some were of opinion to* 1.481 abandon the City, despayring of being able to resist the enemies, others on the contrary reiecting that councell as too base, would not depart, but perswaded to tarry still and defend the City, and the better to doe it, they resolued to retaine all the foot-men in Milan, with eight hundred Launces, and to distribute the residue for the gard of the neighbour townes.

Neuerthelesse the first councell had beene followed, had not André Gritti and Andrè Treuisan, the Prouidators, disswaded it, who by meanes of their authority [ 40] procured them not to make so much haste: so that as they were ready to depart, certaine newes arriued, that the day following Albert Peter would be at Milan,* 1.482 with ten thousand Swisses and Grisons. These newes did encourage the Citi∣zens and souldiers. The Emperour in the meane time came and encamped at Lambre two miles from Milan, whether he was no sooner come but the Swisses arriued at the City. This comming gaue spirit to the French, but greater terror to the Emperor. For, seeing the City to be strengthened with such a garrison, he doubted not but that the seege would be long and painefull: whereunto he himselfe had no meanes to tarry there long, for want of money, victuals, and all o∣ther* 1.483 necessaries for a seege: as also, for that he did greatly suspect the fidelity of [ 50] that Nation, by reason of matters past, and for that the French might easily winne them, for some great summe of money, the which himselfe could not doe in re∣gard of his pouerty: calling to minde beside, what had befalne Lodouico Sforza at Nouara, there hauing beene Swisses in his army, and in that of the French his

enemies, he feared least they should play him the selfe same tricke as they had don to Sforza, because he could not pay them. The Emperour beeing troubled with these and other such like cogitations, feare hauing mightily possessed him, deter∣mined to leaue his army, and to returne into Germany, hauing caused it to be gi∣uen forth that his departure was only to prouide money to pay his souldiers, and that he would soone returne againe. And in this resolution, he went on his way with two hundred horse onely.

Now the souldiers of the campe, perceiuing themselues to be forsaken of their captaine, beganne to take a new party, as their particular profit vrged them. The Swisses went to Lodi, which had yeelded to the Emperour when hee crossed the [ 10] Adda, where hauing wasted the country round about, they spoiled the towne, and had continued their rauaging, had not the other Swisses that lay in Milan prote∣sted against them, that if they did not abstaine from so doing, that they, with the French and Venetians would come and assaile them. Vpon these threatnings they ceassed from spoyling, and hauing remained peaceably there for certaine daies, they returned home into their country, (some excepted) who with Marke Setio their captaine went to gard Verona, the like did Marke Antonio Colonna with his cauallery, and Spanish and Almaine foot.

Soone after the Emperours departure the Marquis of Brandenbourg came to* 1.484 the campe with certaine summes of money, who although he vsed all meanes to [ 20] stay the souldiers, who were already disbanded, all things being in confusion, and the money likewise not being sufficient for the payment of the whole army, hee lost but his labour.

Amidest these troubles, the small loue and affection betwixt the Pope and the French King, began to shew it selfe, the which till then lay hidden. The King com∣plained for that the Pope being mooued with a bad intent, had made so long de∣lay* 1.485 to send that aide to the campe which he was tied to by their agreement; That he had secretly stirred vp the Swisses against him, and had in diuers other matters manifested his small affection towards him. The Pope on the other side alleadged diuers causes which had mooued him to suspect the Kings friendship. The Veneti∣ans [ 30] did all they might at sundry times to accord these Princes, and to take away al suspition from them, knowing very well how important a matter it was, for the Pope, the French King, and their Republike to be vnited together.

Whilest this agreement was handled by Ambassadors, all the enemies de∣seignes turned into smoake. For besides the Swisses, who were gonne home into* 1.486 their country (as hath beene said) three thousand Spanish and Almain foot, came to the French and Venetian campes, who hauing crossed the Riuer Adda, had for certaine daies mightily molested the enemies, by diuers and sundry accidents, the French now hauing the worse, and anon the enemies.

The Duke of Burbon being at the same time departed forth of Italy, the Lord [ 40] Lautrec remained Gouernor for the King in the Dutchy of Milan, who marched speedily with all the French and Venetian forces on the Bressan territory, where with the ordnance he began to batter Bressia in foure seuerall places, to the end the beseeged might not be able to make resistance in so many places at once, who* 1.487 held out so long as they had any hope of aide, which they expected out of the country of Tirol, it being promised them, but it came to nothing, by reason that the Venetians did shut vp the castle of Anse and other passages, so as the townes∣men being not willing to endure an assault, because of the great breach that was made, couenanted to leaue the city and castle (their gods and liues being saued) if they were not releeued within three daies, on condition that the souldiers might [ 50] * 1.488 goe any whether sauing to Verona. Icaro, the Cities captaine, came forth of the towne, and the Lord Lautrec with the Venetian Prouidators entred it at the same time, where they were ioyfully receiued by all the inhabitants, who by their cries and salutations did manifest their great content, for that the City was reduced

vnder the power of the common-wealth. Lautrec at his entry, tooke possession of the towne, and afterwards redeliuered it to the Venetian Prouidators, who* 1.489 soone erected the Republikes standard. In this manner did this famous Ci∣ty, after many thwarts and accidents of fortune, returne to the obedience of her lawfull Lords.

The newes of the reddition of Bressia being brought to Venice, did greatly reioyce the whole City, all men hoping that this happy successe would be fol∣lowed with more fortunate euents which would giue end to the warres. The Senate did particularly thanke the French King, for that by meanes of his aide [ 10] they had preuailed: They likewise wrote to the Lord of Lautrec, infinitely com∣mending his speed and loyalty, exhorting him not to let slip the occasion which offered it selfe of other most fortunate exploits, as was that of Verona, if with∣out delay the army might be brought before it, by the taking of which City, the warre with wonderfull speed would be ended.

Lautrec being mooued by these words resolued sodainely to discampe, and* 1.490 with Triuulcio to march towards Verona. But being come to Pescara he had in∣telligence that those fiue Cantons of Swisses with whom the King was not in league made preparations to come and assaile the Dutchy of Milan, Hee then told the Prouidators that in regard of his Kings seruice he could not be absent so farre from the State of Milan. [ 20]

This businesse beeing debated in councell, all men were of opinion to re∣maine in the same place where they were, and there to expect more certaine newes of those stirres, the report whereof was yet vncertaine. But the rumor of the Swisses comming, still encreasing, Lautrec was desirous to bring backe his ar∣my* 1.491 into the Dutchy of Milan, notwithstanding that all the other captaines were of a contrary opinion, shewing how the sytuation of the place was very strong and most commodious, where they might resolue on whatsoeuer should bee needfull, and prouide for all things necessary to stoppe the enemies passage, of whose comming they were yet vncertaine. Hee on the contrary remayning firme in his resolution to discampe, propounded that he would goe and encampe [ 30] on the Bressan territory neere to Asola, alleadging for his reasons, that Verona being well manned with souldiers as well Swisses as Almaines who had retired thither after the rout of the Emperours army, that it would bee labour lost to be∣seege it, so as to attempt a difficult enterprize without great hope to effect it, would hinder their other affaires, and confound all order of warre.

Besides, hee made vse of other excuses, namely, how that the Venetians had* 1.492 conferred with the King of Polands Ambassador who spake to them of peace, and that the money promised to pay the Almaines, was not yet sent to the campe. Gritti the Prouidator opposing himselfe to what Lautrec had spoken, said, That he knew of a certaine, that there was great scarcity of all things in Verona, and [ 40] chiefly of corne, whereby the souldiers that were come thither, did more hurt* 1.493 then good to the city, that they ought not to giue them time to make prouision, least that afterwards the enterprize would prooue more difficult: That hee had intelligence by the souldiers that were come to their campe, that the townesmen and souldiers were at dissension among themselues▪ that all things were in confusion, by meanes whereof the affaires of warre was managed more slowly, and with great suspition: so as if the army were but before it, the people beeing partly prouoked by their owne interest, and partly likewise by their loue which they did beare to the Venetians, might raise some tumult, and giue them meanes for to enter the City: As for the Ambassa∣ssador [ 50] of Poland, that the Senate had not treated with him of peace with∣out the knowledge of the French King, whom they did so honour and reuerence, as they had refused sundry and honest conditions of agreement, because that they would not disunite themselues from him: As for the payment of

the Almaines, the money was ready long before, and should be brought to the campe so soone as any safe meanes of sending it should be presented. But when I consider that you meane to depart hence, to goe and encampe on the Bressan country, I am greatly troubled thereat, as are all those of our city, because the peo∣ple of that country, who are very louing and loyall to our Republike, and by warre haue endured infinite miseries, should be againe tormented by the arriuall of the army, now when they beganne to recouer themselues and to breath, so as by this meanes, we shall charge and oppresse our friends, to ease our enemies.

Gritti hauing vttered this speech, added, that if Lautrec would not follow them, [ 10] * 1.494 he was resolued to passe with the Venetian army vpon the Verona territory, where vnto the Generall and all the Venetian captaines gaue their consent. But hauing afterwards, maturely considered the mischiefe which that diuiding of the army might procure to the Common-wealth, they did solicite and entreat Lau∣trec, to passe on, but he would by no meanes harken therevnto, and all that they could obtaine of him, was, that he would a while longer stay in that place, and ex∣pect (as he said) money from France, and that the Venetians in the meane time should make greater prouisions of money, artillery and munition; but the chiefe* 1.495 cause of his abode there was, to heare what end the treaty of Noyon would come to betwixt his King, and the King of Spaine: employing in the meane [ 20] space his armes vpon the poore country men. For Lautrec hauing made a bridge at the village of Monzarban, was ready to reape downe all the corne of the Ve∣ronois, and to waste the champian country by his light horse, hauing to these ends sent part of his army to lodge on the Mantuan territory, where it grieuously spoiled and wasted that country.

The Lord of Lautrec being afterwards mooued by the Venetians great com plaints, crossed the Adicé, at Gothalonga, where after that his souldiers had taken great booties, he drew neere to Verona, but it was after that the Venetians had protested not to giue him the money which was come to the campe for to pay the Almaines, vnlesse he would march to Verona. Lautrec with his ar∣my [ 30] hauing crossed (as hath beene said) the Adicé, his captaines did first of all seize on all the streight passages of the mountaines, thorow which the Almaines were wont to come forth of Germany to Verona, to the end that they being shut vp and stopt, no succor might come to the City. The Swisses on the other side hauing all of them in a manner left Verona, detesting the seege, were gon home into their country.

The Venetians army, with the French aide, consisted of eight thousand Italian* 1.496 foot and of sixe thousand Almaines paied by King Francis, of a thousand men at armes, and two thousand light horse, with diuers great captaines well expe∣rienced in the art military. These forces being come before Verona, they [ 40] were diuided into two campes, to batter the City at one time in two seuerall pla∣ces, thereby the more to molest the beseeged, who were already reduced to a very small number.

The French comming to execute what had beene determined, the Lanseque∣nets* 1.497 although they had receiued three monthes pay of the Venetian Prouida∣tors, either of their owne proper motion, or else being suborned by the Empe∣rour, protested that they would not come to the seege of a City which was be∣longing to the Emperours possessions, to which the French King had no parti∣cular claime, and so by no meanes would passe on any further: wherevpon Lautrec repassing the Adicé, lay a mile off from the walles of Verona, and the [ 50] * 1.498 Venetian army where the Lansquenets remained (fiue hundred men at armes, fiue hundred light horse and foure thousand foot beeing gonne away) not thinking it a safe matter to remaine beyond the Riuer, went and ioyned with him.

In the meane time the Cities forces did dayly decrease, by reason that diuers

Almaine companies returned home into their country, and others went to the Venetians campe, where they resolued to entertaine no more of them, by reason that they did some-what distrust them. Wee must thinke that the number of those who at the beginning were in Verona, was very great, for albeit many of them were gone from thence, it was neuer-the-lesse sufficiently well mand with soldiers: in regard wherof the Lord Lautrec, meaning not to hazard any thing, but vpon a certaine hope of good successe, demanded greater aide of the Venetians, if they would haue the army to march before Verona. The Venetians albeit they found it very difficult, in respect of the quality of the matter and the time, yet neuerthelesse because they would not foreslow an enterprize, which did [ 10] so much import them, hauing speedily gathered together foure thousand foot* 1.499 out of their owne state, they sent them to the campe, with greate store of artillery, pouder, and victualls, by the riuer Adicé, to the end that the campe should want nothing.

Within Verona, which was strong by sytuation and art, and wel furnished with* 1.500 all kinds of artillery, were, besides the cauallery, sixe thousand foot, as well Spani∣ards and Almans, as Suisses, commanded by Mark Antonio Colonna their General, who was no more in the Popes pay but in the Emperors, a man excellently ex∣perienced in martiall matters.

This man had diligently prouided for whatsoener was necessary for the Citties [ 20] defence.

Lautrec approching the walls, diuided his army into two parts, He went and encamped with his infantery and cauallery on that side which looketh towards Mantua: And Triuulcio hauing crossed the Adicé with the Venetian forces, sea∣ted his campe against the wals towards Vincenza. The battery began at one time in both those places, but with sundry intents, because that Lautrec did batter it fu∣riously* 1.501 in one only place, to open away into the City, and to take from the ene∣mies the meanes to repaire it: But Triuulcio being encamped more at large did batter a great space of the wall, hoping that it being beaten to the ground, he might with more aduantage come to the assault. [ 30]

Lautrec hauing espied a place neere to the gate Calcina, which was not very* 1.502 strong being rampierd only with a weake old tower, he planted his ordnance a∣gainst it, which being throwne downe, he commanded the souldiers to goe to the assault, who vpon hope of the sacke of that ritch City, went to it valliantly, and came without feare of the ordnance or Harquebuze shot vpon the breach; fight∣ing with the enemies hand to hand, where the French did brauely behaue them∣selues:* 1.503 but the enemies hauing brought certaine peeces of ordnance to play in flanke vpon the breach, the French were enforced with great losse of their people to retire to the campe. But Triuulce notwithstanding that the breach was very great, did neuerthelesse delay to giue the assault, knowing very well that the [ 40] beseeged, hauing well fortified the place where the first assault was giuen, were gonne to the other breach to the aide of their fellowes, whereof ha∣•…•…ing acquainted Lautrec, entreated him to send him more aide, that he might the safelier goe to the assault.

Now al-be-it Lautrec had meanes to doe it, for the commodiousnesse of going from one army to an other, vpon a very strong bridge ouer the Adicé, and that he* 1.504 did often promise to do it, did neuerthelesse delay the matter. And the campe had already laine fifteene daies before the towne, the enemies were reduced to extre∣mity, the cannon had beaten downe a great space of the wall, the souldiers within [ 50] the City were wearied with continuall factions, they wanted powder, the captains and the townesmen did not agree together, and yet for all that, none of these matters could mooue him to make hast to force the City.

Newes in the meane time came to the campe, how that great numbers of Almaine foot-men were comming to releeue the beseeged. These newes did

amaze Lautrec more then there was cause, and distasted him of continuing the seege, so as hee thought on nothing more then how to retire his army into some place of safety. The Venetian Prouidators being aduertized of this sodaine re∣solution,* 1.505 came vnto him, where after diuers remonstrances of the great blemish he should doe to his honour and reputation to raise his campe, they infinitely entreated him with great earnestnesse to temporize for a while longer, and not to depart till the enemies were arriued, that they might see what they were: But all their entreaties could not diuert him from his first resolution. Whereupon he commanded on a sodaine to discampe, so as all his troupes went to Albareda, Paul* 1.506 Gradonic the Prouidator, and Iohn Paul Manfron remained for the gard of the [ 10] bridge, with eight hundred horse, as well men at armes as light horse-men, and two thousand foot, fearing if the same were broken their army might want victu∣als but they tarried not long there, for they forth-with went on to Villa Franca, where they fortified their campe.

In the meane time Rocandolf Colonel of the Almaine foot (the French and Ve∣netian* 1.507 army being retired) entred Verona without any empediment, and hauing releeued it with victuals and new souldiers in their stead that were hurt, returned into Germany▪ wherevpon the Prouidators, did againe solicite the Lord of Lau∣trecto returne to the seege of Verona, and not to spend time so vnprofitably. But Lautrec comforting them vsed diuers excuses for his slownesse, assuring them that [ 20] the City of Verona should shortly be reduced vnder the Venetians power.

The Prouidator hauing seriously ruminated these words in his minde, beganne to doubt of some treaty which did not appeare; and namely because that at the same time as the campe dislodged from before Verona, the report was that a mes∣senger came from France to Lautrec, who had secret conference with him, and entreated him to keepe close his comming. Therefore the Prouidators did ear∣nestly entreat Lautrec to discouer vnto them what hee knew thereof, to the end* 1.508 they might be no longer enforced to entertaine so great an army, which charged the Republike with a merueilous expence: the Senate likewise being aduertized by the Prouidators of what had past, had the same thoughts, at such time as they [ 30] had newes from their Ambassador in the French Kings Court of that which had passed at Noyon: Because that King Francis beeing desirous that the Venetians* 1.509 should haue time to consult of their affaires, would forthwith haue them to be ac∣quainted with the treaty of Noyon betwixt him and the Arch-duke Charles, to the end that the Commissioners of both Princes comming to Brussels, should find all difficulties to be taken away and resolued on.

The summe of the treaty concluded at Noyon, was thus: That there should* 1.510 be a perpetuall peace betwixt the French King and the King of Spaine, and a con∣federacy for the defence of their States against all men, in the which were com∣prehended all other Princes, friends or allies, of either of them. That King Fran∣cis [ 40] should giue the Lady Renè, daughter to the late King Lewis, in marriage to the King of Spaine. That the said King should within a certaine time re-deliuer the Kingdome of Nauarre to her antient King. That the Emperour might within two monthes enter into that peace, and though he should enter into the league, the French King might helpe the Venetians to recouer Verona: the which if the Emperour would within sixe weekes commit to the King of Spaine, with power to giue it freely to the French King, to dispose thereof as hee should thinke fit, the King should pay vnto him a hundred thousand crownes, and the Venetians an other hundred thousand, part whereof should bee paied at the consignation thereof, and the rest within sixe monthes after, and that he should likewise be ac∣quitted [ 50] of three hundred thousand crownes which he had receiued of King Lewis whilest they were confederates.

The Venetians doubting whether the Emperour would accept of peace on these conditions, did not cease to solicite the Lord of Lautrec to beseege Verona;

and also in regard of the summe of money they were to pay, which they desired ra∣ther to recouer by armes. But peace was more agreeable to the French King then force, being desirous of accord with the Emperour: yet neuerthelesse Lautrec not knowing how to excuse himselfe to the Venetians, who had made what prouisi∣ons soeuer hee craued, as also because the Lansequenets did no more refuse to* 1.511 goe to the seege, he condescended to their request and went againe and encamped before Verona.

Now whilest the French on the one side, and the Venetians on the other were busied in the battery, nine thousand Lansquenets arriued, who were sent by the [ 10] Emperour to releeue it. For the Emperor, being solicited by the Cardinall of Syon, and by the King of England, would not harken to a peace, so as his com∣missioners were ready to depart from Bruxels, without any conclusion, when the Emperour vnderstood that the French King had made a league with all the Swis∣ses by meanes of a great summe of money: for then he seemed to be very desirous of peace with the French and Venetians, al-be-it that at the arriuall of these nine thousand Lansquenets, the campe did rise from before Verona, and was retired to* 1.512 Villa-franca.

The matter then was concluded at Bruxels as well with the King of Spaine as with the Emperor, in the manner aboue said, the which going slowly on, was hast∣ned [ 20] by King Francis, on condition that there should be truce with the Venetians. The whole businesse being thus ended, the Bishop of Trent was sent to the Lord of Lautrec, to consigne the City of Verona, in the King of Spaines name, to the French King within the space of sixe weekes, according to the contents of the Capitulation, the which was done on the fifteenth day of Ianuary 1517. after the Venetians had paied the first fifty thousand crownes, and fifteene thousand to* 1.513 the foot-men that were in the City: wherevpon at the very instant the Lord of Lautrec, in the name of the said King, gaue it to the Senate of Venice, and for the said Senate, to Andre Gritti and Iohn Paul Gradonic the Prouidators, to the great contentment of the Nobility, and the whole people of Venice, who did highly re∣ioyce, [ 30] for that after infinite expences and labors, they had made a fortunate end of so long and dangerous a warre.

But if they reioyced in Venice, they did no lesse in Verona, and in all the towns* 1.514 round about, hoping that by meanes of that peace they should be freed from all those troubles and miseries which they had so long a time endured. After all these demonstrations of ioy, the Senate acknowledging the Lord of Lautrec for a wise and valliant captaine, after they had presented him with great guifts, they commanded the Prouidator Gritti, to accompany him to Milan. But being come* 1.515 as farre as Lodi, he found Iohn Iames Triuulce there, who came to meet and to bring him from the King the order of Saint Michel. Gritti hauing orderly per∣formed [ 40] his commission, tooke his leaue of him, and returned, according as the Se∣nate had commanded him, to the country newly reconquered.

The end of the third Booke of the fifth Decade.

[ 50]

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* 1.516 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* 1.517 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.* 1.518

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* 1.519 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* 1.520 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* 1.521 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* 1.522 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,* 1.523 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* 1.524 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* 1.525 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* 1.526 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* 1.527 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* 1.528 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] * 1.529 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* 1.530 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* 1.531 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* 1.532 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] * 1.533 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* 1.534 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] * 1.535 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* 1.536 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* 1.537 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.* 1.538

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* 1.539 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* 1.540 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.* 1.541

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,* 1.542 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* 1.543 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* 1.544 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* 1.545 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* 1.546 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* 1.547 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* 1.548 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,* 1.549 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* 1.550 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* 1.551 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* 1.552 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* 1.553 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,* 1.554 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* 1.555 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] * 1.556

〈1 paragraph〉〈1 paragraph〉 [ 20] * 1.557

Vpon these new propositions of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and the French King, the Vene•…•…* 1.558 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* 1.559 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* 1.560 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] * 1.561 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,* 1.562 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* 1.563 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* 1.564 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,* 1.565 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] * 1.566 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* 1.567 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* 1.568 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* 1.569 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* 1.570 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* 1.571 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* 1.572 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* 1.573 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,* 1.574 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,* 1.575 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* 1.576 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* 1.577 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* 1.578 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,* 1.579 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* 1.580 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,* 1.581 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* 1.582 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* 1.583 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] * 1.584 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.* 1.585

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* 1.586 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* 1.587 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* 1.588 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* 1.589 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* 1.590 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* 1.591 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* 1.592 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* 1.593 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* 1.594 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,* 1.595 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* 1.596 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]

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

THe French and Venetian campe lie before Maran. Fran∣cis [ 20] Sforza commeth to Pauia with sixe thousand Lanse∣quenets. Nouara is taken by the French. Sforza com∣meth to Milan with his troupes. Lautrec beseegeth Pa∣uia and forthwith raiseth his campe. The battaile of Bi∣coq. The Swisses retire into their country. Lauda and Cremona yeelded to the enemies. The Emperour seeketh the Venetians friendship. The Emperor and the King of England conferre to∣gether, [ 30] with the league made betwixt them. The Isle of Rhodes is taken by Soliman. The creation of Pope Adrian the sixth. League betwixt the Pope, the Emperour, the Venetians, the Duke of Milan and the Florentines. Alliance made betwixt the Emperour and the Venetians against the French King. The Duke of Vrbin Generall to the Venetians. The Duke of Bour∣bon leaueth the French Kings party. The French army in Italy vnder the Admirall Boniuet. Nouara and Vigeua are taken by the French. The French come before Milan, and soone dislodge thence. Monce taken [ 40] by the French. Motion of peace betwixt the Emperour and the King. The death of Pope Adrian. The creation of Pope Clement the seuenth. The French retire in disorder. The cause of the Kings discontent with the Empe∣rour and the Venetians. The King commeth into Italy and taketh the Ci∣ty of Milan. The Duke of Albany is appointed to goe and enuade the King∣dome of Naples. The King beseegeth Pauia. The Venetians are sought to by both parties. A secret league made betwixt the Pope, the King, and the Venetians. The Marquis of Pescara keepeth the viceroy of Naples from [ 50] dislodging forth of Lumbardy. The Imperialls come into the field and as∣saile the King. The King is taken prisoner by the Imperials and the French

army is put to rout. The Popes resolution after the defeate of the French. The Venetians resoluing to defend Italy, are diuerted from it by the Pope. And lastly the wordes and gesture of the Emperour at the newes of the victory.

[ 10]

The Fifth Booke of the fifth Decade of the Historie of Uenice.

[ 20]

THe French army being much encreased in the beginning of the* 1.597 yeere 1522. by the arriuall of the Swisses, who in great numbers came to their campe, and by the Venetians forces ioyned to them, which were six thousand foot, sixe hundred men at armes, and eight hundred light-horse. Lautrec by the aduise of all the captaines resolued to march directly towards Milan, which was the principall motiue and aime of the warre. According to this resolution they passed the Adda on the first day of march, and the campe was lodged within two* 1.598 miles of the castle. The third day after the French were encamped, they marched [ 30] in order, making shew that they would assault the Rampire, the which they did not, either because that at the first it was not Lautrecs meaning, or else for that in* 1.599 regard of the great numbers of souldiers that were within it, the disposition of the people, and the readinesse which was seene in the defendants, hee was diuerted from it, for the manifest difficulty of such an enterprize.

It is certaine that the Lord of Lautrec had no hope to take Milan by assault, but thought to effect it by length of time, because that by reason of the multitude of his horse and great number of the bandetti which followed him who scoured the whole country, hee did cut off all victuals from it: as also because he had broken downe all the mils, and turned away the waters forth of their Channels, which [ 40] brought great commodities to the Milanois, and he did besides, hope, that the pay which the Milanois did giue the souldiers would soone be wasted: for the Empe∣ror sent little or none at all.

But the Citizens of Milans hatred towards the French was wonderful, and their* 1.600 desire merueilous to haue Francis Sforza their new Duke againe, in regard wher∣of, enduring paciently all discommodities, they did not onely, not change their mindes for all those miseries, but the young men of the City did put on armes, and made captaines in euery parrish: in such sort as the gardes which speedily ranne to the remotest places of the army, did greatly releeue the souldiers; proui∣ding beside, in stead of the mils that were broken downe, hand mils; for all their [ 50] meale was spent.

The Duke of Milan in the meane space, who had a long time remained at Trent, expecting some fit occasion to passe forward, went on his way with six thou∣sand Lansequenets, and seized on the Fort of Croare which did belong to the

Venetians, to the end to open his passage. From thence he came thorow the Veronois and Mantuan territories with ease to Casal-major, because that* 1.601 the Venetian army was ioyned with the Lord Lautrec, and there crossing the Po, hee came to Placentia, beeing afterwards aided by the Marquis of Man∣tua hee marched to Pauia, where he remained waiting for some fit occasion to goe to Milan, where his arriuall was extreamely wished for.

So soone as the Lord of Lautrec, had intelligence of his comming to Pla∣centia, he raised his campe, and went and lodged at Cassin fiue miles from Milan on the high way towards Pauia, and the Venetians at Binasca which lieth on the same road way, to hinder his comming to Milan, where in the meane time hee [ 10] tooke Saint Angelo, and Saint Colombane. But being aduertized that the Lord of Escut his brother, was come from France with money and certaine companies of foot-men, and came by the way of Genoa, he sent thither for his conuoy Frederico de Bozzole, with foure hundred Lances and seuen thousand foot, Swisses and Italians, against whom the Marquis of Mantua going forth of Pauia, came backe thither on a sodaine, standing in feare of them, by reason they were more in number then had beene reported vnto him. Bozzole hauing ioyned his forces with the Lord of Escut, both of them together tooke the way towards Nouara, and comming to the castle, which held out yet for them, they tooke the ordnance that was within it, and battered the City, the which they tooke by [ 20] * 1.602 force at the third assault, sacking it wholly and putting all those within it to the sword, Count Philip Tournielo the Gouernor excepted, and some few others with him who were made prisoners; from thence they went to Vigeua, which they like∣wise tooke, opening the way by the taking of those townes to the supplies which they expected from France.

But in the meane time, Francis Sforza departing secretly in a night from Pa∣uia, went thorow by-waies, and ioyned himselfe with Prospero Colonna neere to Landriana, a few souldiers remayning in Pauia with the Marquis of Mantua, who would not passe on any farther, because he would not be farre off from the Chur∣ches territories. [ 30]

By reason whereof the Lord of Lautrec supposing his stay at Cassin to bee to no purpose, seeing that Francis Sforza was escaped, as also because it had beene no discretion for them to encampe before Milan, they determined for to turne the army towardes Pauia, hoping to take it; wherevpon so* 1.603 soone as hee had re-assembled his army, hee went and encamped there, where at his arriuall a furious battery was made in two seuerall places, as well by the French, as the Venetians, so that the breach was iudged reasonable for an as∣sault:* 1.604 And yet the beseeged resolued valiantly to defend themselues, and to hin∣der the enemies from taking it, not sparing their liues and meanes.

Prospero in the meane time perceiuing the manifest daunger wherein the Ci∣ty [ 40] was, did speedily send thither a thousand Corsicans, and as many Spani∣ards, who in the night passed along very neere to the campe, not beeing descried before they were in a manner all past, and then the French watch which was still on horse▪backe, did charge them on their backes, and defeated some few of them, but not very many, by reason they were to late descried. Now the breach being thought to be reasonable, the Swisses, who by nature are impatient, request∣ed the Generall of the army that they might march to the assault, but it was put off till an other time, the better to assure the businesse, staying till Pe∣dro of Nauarres mine had plaied, which was made vnder a great Bastion, to the end that the ruines thereof might helpe the souldiers in their going to the [ 50] assault.

And in this sort the arriuall of new supplies at Pauia, and their hope in the* 1.605 mine, were the causes that the assault was delayed and the campe raised. For Prospero Colonna perceiuing himselfe to be re-enforced with sixe thousand Lanse∣quenets

and others which Francis Sforza had brought, did with his whole army come into the field, that he might be neere to Pauia, and he went and encamped at the Chartreux within three miles off the French and Venetians, to hinder them from giuing an assault to the City, for it had beene against reason to haue suffered it to be don, so great a power as his being so nere the enemies. Then was the Lord of Lautrec out of hope to take Pauia, wherevpon he dislodged and retired his campe to Ladriana, and from thence to Monce, that he might be releeued with victuals as well from Laudesan and from the territory of Cremona as from the Venetians country, receiuing in his discamping no other discommodity then a [ 10] few light skirmishes.

The Imperials perceiuing the French army to march towards Monce, think∣ing* 1.606 that they would haue gonne to Milan, went and lodged at Bicoca three miles off from Milan, on the high way to Laude, which is a very spacious house belonging to a Gentleman, enuironed with goodly gardens and enclosed with deepe ditches, the fields round about beeing full of fountaines and streames brought by conduit-pipes, according to the manner of Lombardy, to water the meddowes: being come to that place, they did speedily raise all the dikes, and flanked them with great plat-formes well stored with ordnance.

The Swisses being, according to their manner, impatient, sent their captaines [ 20] to the Lord of Lautrec, to let him vnderstand that their fellowes were wearied with lying in campe, and that of three things they craued one, ready money, leaue to depart, or that he would speedily, without any to more temporizing, lead them to a battaile. The Lord of Lautrec considering how dangerous a matter it would haue beene to haue gonne and assailed the enemies in their campe, vsed meanes to moderate their fury, and told them that if money were long in com∣ming, it was not thorow the Kings fault, but in regard of the danger of the waies, and yet neuerthelesse it would very shortly arriue, therefore he entreated them, (as did all the other Lords of the army likewise) that they would bee patient for a while longer, seeing they did hope to vanquish the enemies without fight, or [ 30] at least wise to fight with them with greater aduantage. But the captaines of the French army, not being able to winne or retaine them, neither by their autho∣rity, entreaties, promises, nor reasons, knowing that the chiefe strength of their ar∣my consisted of that nation, of whom being abandoned they should remaine a prey to the enemies, they concluded to fight rather then to flie, seeing that vnlesse the Swisses were lead to the battaile, they were determined to depart thence.* 1.607

Now according to this resolution, the Lord of Lautrec did by the Swisses con∣sent send the Lord of Pontdormy to discouer the enemies campe, who marched thither with foure hundred men at armes and sixe thousand Swisses, who hauing discouered it they found small likelihood of beeing able to assaile it, yet neuerthe∣lesse [ 40] that did not change their opinion: wherevpon the Lord of Lautrec com∣ming forth of Monce, did with his army march towards that place, hauing ap∣pointed* 1.608 the Swisses with the artillery to goe and assaile the front of their campe and the enemies artillery, which was guarded by the Lansequenets: That the Lord of Escut with three hundred Lances, and a squadron of French and Italian foot should march on the left hand vpon the way that leadeth to Milan, and should goe to the bridge by which they might enter into the enemies campe: As for himselfe he would vse meanes to enter it with a squadron of horsemen,* 1.609 hoping rather to preuaile by cunning then by open force; for the better to deceiue them, hee commanded that all his souldiers should weare red crosses on their cazakes, which was the badge of the Imperiall army, in stead of a white crosse [ 50] which was the deuice of the French army: Francisco Maria Duke of Vrbin, with the army of the Signory of Venice lead the rereward.

Now the Swisses being come nere to the enemies cample, al-be-it that in regard of the depth of the trenches, which were deeper thē they imagined, they could not

according to their first hope assaile the ordnance, their courage neuerthelesse not diminishing, they assailed the trench, striuing with great boldnesse to get ouer it, but in the meane time the ordnance and the enemies small shot, wherewith the* 1.610 rampier was stuffed, did greatly hurt them, so as the greatest part of the captaines and chiefe souldiers died there. For as soone as Prospero Colonna had notice of their comming, he embattailed his troupes, then he appointed euery man his place, ac∣counting the victory for his owne, in regard of the strength of the place, so as the Lord of Escut being gonne on the other side, as hee was commanded, directly to the bridge, finding, contrary to his expectation, a strong guard there, was enforced* 1.611 to retire, so that the whole burthen of the battaile fell vpon the Swisses▪, who, as [ 10] well in respect of the vantage of the place, as for the defendants valor, did labor in vaine, and did receiue a very great ouerthrow, so as being well rewarded for their rashnesse, by the death of many of their fellowes, they were enforced to retire.

The Lord of Lautrec, with the other Lords of the army, perceiuing all things in disorder, would haue perswaded the Swisses to encampe vpon the same place, of∣fering them the next day to set the greatest part of the men at armes on foot to march in the forefront, but it was impossible to cause them to condescend there∣vnto,* 1.612 so as they would needs returne to Monce, whether marching in good order with the French and the artillery, they receiued no hurt in their retreat, al be-it [ 20] that the Marquis of Pescara and the other Imperiall captaines did importune Prospero to follow them, but he would not doe it, beleeuing, as it was very likely, that the French army made their retreat in good order, the men at armes remay∣ning on the tayle of the army to repulse the enemies if they should follow them.

The army being come to Monce, the Lord of Lautrec vsed all meanes to de∣taine the Swisses, and to that end did giue great presents to their captaines, and among others to Albert Peter, a man of great authority amongst them, who ha∣uing declared vnto them in an open assembly the wrong which they did to their reputation, if they should depart, then when they were in greater hope then e∣uer to vanquish the enemies by reason of the French Kings comming, who was [ 30] dayly expected, could not for all that stoppe their retreate: wherevpon, the mor∣row after their arriuall at Monce, they returned thorow the Bergamask home into their mountaines, their number being much decreased, for that, three thou∣sand of their fellowes, and two and twenty captaines were slaine at the trenches. The French and Venetian army did soone dislodge from Monce, and crossed the* 1.613 Adda at Tressa, and there the two armies being parted the Lord Lautrec went to Cremona, to giue order for the defense of the City, and afterwards for his going into France (which he did) leauing his brother the Lord of Escut for the guard of Cremona, with the companies of men at armes, and the Lord of Bone∣uall in Laude and Frederick of Bozole with six companies of men at armes, and a [ 40] sufficient number of foot-men.

The Venetian army retired to the Bressan territory, hauing left a sufficient gar∣rison* 1.614 for the gard of Tressa. But forthwith after the Lord of Lautrecs departure, the towne of Lauda was surprized and sacked by the Marquis of Pescara, and soone after the Lord of Escut yeelded Cremona on composition to Prospero, in* 1.615 regard he had no other hope to be able to hold out the seege, but by such succors as he expected from France, of which he heard no newes.

The fortune of the French being in this sort altered, and their reputation great∣ly diminished, by being in so short a time driuen forth of the Dutchy of Milan, by forces no greater then their owne, it was thought that the Venetians (who had already casiered their army, dismissed the greatest part of their Cauallery, and gi∣uen [ 50] leaue to Andrew Gritti their Prouidator in the army to goe home to his owne house, hauing well acquitted themselues (though to small purpose) of whatsoeuer their confederacy and alliance with the French King had bound them to) would at last follow the prosperous fortune of the Emperour

Charles, who made shew (as hee had often times before then done) to desire their* 1.616 friendship, and much more then, then before, in regard of the great hope which he had conceiued in his minde, that the route of the French would incite them so to doe, promising to him-selfe thereby to disioyne them, and so to draw them to his party, for the opinion hee had that this new confederacy and aide of the Ve∣netians would chiefly auaile him for the conseruation of the State of Milan, and for the obtaining of a prosperous issue of the warre.

The Emperor then, resoluing to doe it, and not beeing satisfied with opening the way to Gaspar Contaren, Ambassador to the Seignory in his Court, and to haue told him how much it did import their Republick, to make the same alliance [ 10] * 1.617 with him, as they had done before with the French King, did likwise communicate the same to the King of England, hauing talked with him at his returne from Spaine, the capitulations whereof beeing drawne by the Chancelor of the Em∣pire, were giuen to Contaren, who finding them too rough, promise was made to him, that they should in such sort bee moderated as the Senate should finde them reasonable. But because by the distance of places, the matter was drawne forth* 1.618 at length, there was in the meane time a league and confederacie concluded be∣twixt the Emperor Charles and Henry the eight King of England, reseruing place for the Venetians to enter into it within three moneths, which time was giuen them to aduise thereon. This beeing communicated to the Senate, there was no∣thing [ 20] resolued on for that present, but onely to make a generall answer to the offers and signes of friendship of those two Princes, which was, That they were very desirous of peace, and of their alliance.

But the report dayly encreasing of the French Kings great preparations of warre for his passage into Italy, which held the Venetians from making any cer∣taine resolution, the Emperour and the King of England, fearing that the Vene∣tians would still continue in their friendship and alliance with the French, deter∣mined, the better to hast the conclusion of the new league, to send Ambassadors to Venice.

The King of Englands Ambassador came first to Venice, and being brought [ 30] * 1.619 into the Senate house, hee entreated the Senators to deale plainely, and to declare what they intended to doe, if the French King should returne with his Armie into Italy, to seaze on the Dutchy of Milan. The same request did the Emperors Am∣bassador make, who came thither presently after him, who going on farther, en∣treated, that if the most Christian King should passe the mounts, that the Repub∣lick would take armes and ioyne it selfe with the Imperiall forces to resist him. The Venetians in this treaty dealt very considerately, well weighing the incon∣ueniences that might happen on either side, resoluing neuerthelesse not to enter* 1.620 into any new alliance but vpon necessity, meaning not altogether to seperate themselues from the friendship of the French, nor yet wholy to reiect that of the [ 40] Emperor, wherevpon they answered the Emperour and King of Englands Am∣bassador in generall termes.

About the end of the yeare 1522. Soliman Ottoman, to the great infamy of* 1.621 Christian Princes, tooke the Isle of Rhodes, defended by the Knights of* 1.622 Rhodes, who before then were called, the Knights of Saint Iohn of Ierusalem, whither the great Turke came in person, who hauing reduced those of the Island and Towne to the extreamest point of necessity, enforced them to capitulate, namely, that the great Maister should deliuer him the towne: that as well himselfe as all the Knights of that order should depart in saftie, and carry away with them as much wealth as they could, and for to haue some assurance thereof, the Turke [ 50] should retire his nauall armie from thence, and with-draw his land forces fiue miles from the Citty. By meanes of this capitulation Rhodes remained to the Turke, and the Christians, (promise beeing kept with them) departed into Sicily, and from thence into Italy. Now to returne to the Emperor and King of

Englands pursutes to the Venetians, for the conclusion of the aboue mentioned league, the Venetian Ambassadors resident with those Princes, were often dealt with; but, the better to hasten the businesse, and to preuent the delaies caused by reason of the farre distance of places, Ieronimo Adorni Councellor and ordina∣ry Chamberlaine to the Emperor, came to Venice, beeing sent by his Maister to treate of and conclude that businesse: who beeing brought into the Senate, went about to perswade them to forsake the French Kings alliance, and to embrace that of the Emperor and the King of England. But the Senate beeing mooued by sundry reasons, did still answer as they were wonte, not breaking either with the one or other. [ 10]

In the meane time, after Pope Leos death, Pope Adrian, Cardinall, Bishop of* 1.623 Bertheusa, and a Dutchman by Nation, who had beene Schoole-maister to the Emperor Charles, and by his meanes made a Cardinall by Pope Leo, was at the time of his Election in Spaine, and hauing receiued newes thereof (would be cal∣led Adrian the sixt, taking none other name vpon him then his owne) did em∣barke himselfe, and came to Nice: and from thence went to Rome, whither all the Prelates speedily came, and all Princes sent their Ambassadors to present their accustomed obedience: wherein, because the Venetians among others would not faile, they deputed sixe of the chiefe of the Citty: namely, Marco Dandulo, Lodouico Mocenigo, Vincentio Capel, Antonio Iustiniano, Petro Pesare, and [ 20] Marco Foscare: who being come to Bolognia, and vnderstanding that the plague* 1.624 was very great in Rome, they remained there for certaine dayes: but beeing ad∣uertized that the Pope was enforced to leaue the Citty, and to retire else-where, they returned to Venice.

The new Pope was noted to bee of a generous disposition, and very much ad∣dicted to quiet, beeing very zealous for the common good of Christendom. For so soone as hee was installed in the supreame dignity, his greatest care was, to vse meanes to vnite all Christian Princes together, and to end all their controuer∣sies, writing briefs to them all for that purpose, with great affection, causing his* 1.625 Nuncios to present Monitories to those Princes with whom they resided, threat∣ning [ 30] to excommunicate them, if within three moneths they did not agree toge∣ther, or make a generall truce, in which meane space all their strifes might be com∣posed and ended. He did likewise write particularly to the Venetians, entreating and exhorting them, not onely to hearken vnto peace, but to procure all other Christian Princes to vnite themselues together, and to oppose themselues against* 1.626 the greatnesse of the Ottoman Empire. But perceiuing the execution of this en∣terprise to bee very difficult, hee was desirous in the meane time to conclude a league betwixt himselfe, the Emperor, the Venetians, the Duke of Milan, and the Florentines, for the defence and quiet of Italy. The Senate did at the first enter∣taine his proposition with great affection, esteeming it to bee very good and pro∣fitable, [ 40] but hauing considered in what maner the Pope did practise it, how that the end was to haue them to take armes against the Turke, they would not enter too farre into it, nor incurre the displeasure of so mighty a Monarke: wherein wholy to satisfie him, they on a sodaine sent the aboue-named Ambassadors, that were appointed to present their obedience to him, (the plague beeing ceased in Rome) who beeing arriued, were honorably receiued and enterteined by his Holynesse, who promised them to deale in such sort as they should be fully satisfied.

The treaty of agreement in the meane time with the Emperor was not inter∣rupted, for all these goings and commings, the Senate hauing appointed three of their number, namely, Ledouico Mocenigo, Georgio Cornare, and Marc-Antonio [ 50] Veniere to conferre with Ieronimo Adorni the Emperors Commissioner, that they might determine of it afterwards, vpon their report, in the Councell of the Pregays, and make some resolution therevpon.

This conference beeing ended, and the whole businesse beeing sent back to* 1.627 the Councell to bee debated, their opinions were very different, some saying that it was best to continue their alliance with the French King, and others to make a new one with the Emperor; the two chiefe of these contrary opinions, were Andrè Gritti, and Georgio Cornare. The first, beeing highly esteemed for the great offices which hee had borne, and for his great authority in the common∣wealth, spake first, with great vehemencie in the behalfe of the French King: The other beeing of like authority, and accounted as wise a man as any in the Coun∣cell, spake to the contrary, and said, that the Dutchy of Milan did by right apper∣taine [ 10] to Francis Sforza, and that therefore by consequent they were to make al∣liance with the Emperor.

Both of them by their great and apparent reasons, did rather possesse the Senators mindes with doubts then with any certaine resolution, so that the Senate delayed the determination thereof as much as they could, their vsuall manner inducing them therevnto, which was not to doe any thing rashly, the importance of the matter, and their desire to see more prepara∣tions of the French Kings, who prouiding for warre had sent the Bishop of Bayeux, to entreate them to put off their determination for a moneth longer, assuring them that before that time were expired, hee would come [ 20] downe with a greater army then had euer beene seene in Italy in the memory of man.

But because the King did dayly send new messengers to the Senate with very* 1.628 great offers, and for that they were aduertized that Anna of Montmorency and Frederick de Bozzolo were comming to Venice for the same cause; The Empe∣ror and the King of Englands Ambassadors, who did very much suspect those delayes, did protest in open Senate, that within three dayes next they would depart thence, leauing all matters imperfected. In regarde whereof, the Se∣nate being enforced to end that businesse, and the trust which they reposed in the French Kings promises beginning to faile, by reason that hee had for diuers [ 30] monethes fed them with vaine hope, and especially, because their Ambassador with the same King did assure them of the contrary, they resolued to embrace the Emperors frendship, with whom they made agreement on these conditions.

That there should be a perpetuall peace and confederacy betwixt the Empe∣ror* 1.629 Ferdinand Archduke of Austria, and Francis Sforza Duke of Milan, on the one side; and the Senate of Venice on the other. That the Senate should send, when need should bee, for the defence of the Dutchy of Milan, sixe hundred men at armes, sixe hundred light horse, and sixe thousand foot. That it should doe the like for the defence of the kingdome of Naples, if any Christians should enuade it (the Venetians beeing vnwilling to oblige themselues against the [ 40] Turke, because they would not incense Soliman against them): That the Em∣peror should bee bound to defend against all men, with like number of Soul∣diors, whatsoeuer the Venetians possessed in Italy.

That the Venetians should in eight yeares pay to the Archduke, the summe of two hundred thousand Ducats, in regarde of their antient strifes, and for the agreement made at Wormes. That the Venetians should possesse their Cit∣ties, townes and places of their demaines, with the same preheminence and iurisdiction as they then enioyed them: That all those who had beene banni∣shed by the Senate, and their goods confiscate for taking the Emperours part, should returne into their owne Countrey, bee restored againe to [ 50] their goods, and should during their life haue a yeerely pension of fiue thousand Ducats.

These things beeing thus concluded, the Kings of Poland, Hungary and

Portugall, as friends to both parties, the Duke of Sauoy likewise, the Florentines, the family of Medicis, Antonio Adorni Duke of Genoa, and the Marquis of Mont∣ferrat were ioyned in this league; as for the Pope and the King of England they were named Gardians and conseruers of this conuention.

This accord beeing thus established and confirmed, the Senate elected two* 1.630 Ambassadors to send to the Emperor, namely, Lorenzo Prieuli, and André Noua∣giero: and to the Archduke his brother Carlo Contaren, to reioyce with them for the new league, and for to giue them ample testimony of their affection towards the house of Austria. And because that Triuulcio, Generall for the Venetians, did greatly affect the French, the Senate in that regard, did honorably dismisse him, [ 10] seeming to be very well pleased with his former seruice, by offering him a yeerly pention of three thousand crownes if he would continew with them as a priuate Cittizen, till such time as a better opportunity and occasion should present it selfe; but refusing their offer, he went into France: And in his place they chose Francisco Maria Duke of Vrbin Generall of their forces, with the same conditi∣ons, taking vpon them the protection of his State against all men.* 1.631

In Italy all men thought, that seeing the Venetians were contrary to the French King, who in time before had fauoured him, that hee would forbeare to come in∣to Italy to enuade the Dutchy of Milan, but when they vnderstood how that hee did not onely continue his preparations, but that his army began already to [ 20] march: those who feared his victory, did forthwith make a new confederacie to resist him, and perswaded the Pope to bee the chiefe thereof. In very deed it was a thing to be wondered at, that so soone as the French King had certaine newes that the league betwixt the Emperor and the Venetians was concluded and fini∣shed, hee made greater preparations then before to marche into the field, where as in times past, beeing solicited by the Venetians, hee proceeded therein more slowly, and that which is more, hee bent his thoughts on the Dutchy of Milan, at such time as hee had most reason to looke to his owne kingdome, in regarde of* 1.632 the Duke of Bourbons practises with the Emperor, the which beeing discouered, hee forsooke the Realme, and retired himselfe to the sayd Emperor, according to [ 30] his former proiect: by meanes whereof, the King determined for that time not to pursue his iourney into Italy: and yet neuerthelesse keeping at home with him, part of those forces prepared for the new warre, hee sent the Lord of Boniuet Admirall of France thither, with eighteene hundred Lances, sixe thousand Suis∣ses, two thousand Grisons, two thousand Valesians, sixe thousand Lansquenets, two thousand French-men, and three thousand Italians: who hauing passed the Mounts with that Armie, and beeing come to the borders of the Dutchy of Mi∣lan,* 1.633 marched directly towards Nouara, the which beeing not well fortified, nei∣ther with Soldiers nor Rampiers, did soone yeeld, (the Castle excepted) the like did Vigeua and all the rest of the Countrey on the hether side of the riuer Thesin. [ 40]

Prospero Colonna (who could not bee perswaded that the French King would* 1.634 perseuer in his determination to assaile the Dutchy of Milan for that yeare, as well because that the Venetians were confederated against him, as for the Duke of Bourbons rebellion, had not so soone as need required assembled his soldiers who were lodged in sundry places, nor made necessary prouisions for so great a motion) solicited all men to vnite themselues together, to hinder the French from passing ouer the Thesin.

The Venetians on the other side beeing aduertised of the Frenchmens arriuall, did sodainly command all their men at armes to meete vpon the bankes of the Riuer Olio, determining at the same time to make a leuy of sixe thousand [ 50] foote, and foure hundred light horse, to send them according to the treaty of* 1.635 the Confederacie for the defence of the Dutchie of Milan, and three thou∣sand other footemen to lye in garrison in their Citties and strong Townes:

they made Leonardo Eme their Prouid ator generall, and sent a speedy messenger to the Duke of Vrbin, to will him to march forth-with into Lombardy, for the exe∣cution of his charge there. And hauing notice of the Lord of Boniuets progres∣sion, they commauded their Prouidator to leade their forces into the Country of Giradade, to assure the Citties of Bergamo and Crema, and like-wise to releeue speedily the Citty of Milan, whither the French did bend all their deseignes.

The French being come to Vigeua, finding the waters of the riuer to bee shal∣lower then Prospero supposed, part of them beganne to passe ouer at a ford, and o∣thers [ 10] in boates, within foure miles of the Imperialls Campe, and made a bridge* 1.636 for the artillery at a place where they found no gard, nor resistance: whereof Prospero being aduertized, did speedily send a hundred men at armes, and three thousand foot for the gard of Pauia; and him-selfe with the residue of the army went into Milan, where by the aduice of all the Captaines, hee beganne to repaire the bastions and rampiers of the suburbes, which had beene neglected since the last warre: so as if the French had directly come to Milan, the Imperialls would* 1.637 haue forsaken the Citty, and would haue gone either to Pauia or Coma, for it was so resolued in their Councell; but hauing stayed longer then they should neere to the riuer Thefin, to vnite them-selues together, they came afterwards [ 20] to Saint Christophers within a mile of Milan, and then comming betwixt the gate of Thesin, and the Roman, they planted their ordnance in the vantgard, making shew as if they would asalt the Citty: but after they had encamped there certaine* 1.638 daies, without assailing it at all, in regard of the great forces that were within it, they went to Monce, which they tooke with ease: from thence Captaine Bayard, and Frederic of Bossola, marched towards Lauda, on which, (being altoge∣ther abandoned,) they likewise seazed. Then determining to releeue the Castle* 1.639 of Cremona, they marched on the Cremonois, and being without any difficul∣ty come neere to the Castle, they did refresh it with victualls, and other necessa∣ries, and resolued to assaile the Citty. [ 30]

The Ambassadors of the Emperor and the Duke of Milan, which lay at Venice, being moued by these dangers, did solicite the Senate to send their forces ouer the riuer Oglio, to the end that they might goe and encampe in some stronge, and safe place on the Cremonois, to diuert the French from the seege of Cremo∣na, albeit their whole enterprizes, were onely for the taking of Milan, for which part of their forces were at Carauagia, and at Monce, to stop the Venetian army from passing on any farther.

The Imperialls perceiuing the enemies intent did solicite the Venetians to ioyne with them, not considering the perills and difficulties that did present them∣selues: by meanes whereof the Senate knowing that the same businesse did de∣pend [ 40] on the sytuation of places, and on sundry accidents which happened, did re∣ferre the whole matter to the iudgement and discretion of the Duke their Gene∣rall, who after hee had heedefully viewed all the passages determined to en∣campe beyond the riuer Oglio, betwixt Romano, and Martinenga: whereat the Imperialls beeing discontented, made a new entreaty that they might come and encampe more neere to Tressa.

In the meane time other succors came from elsewhere, into the Dutchy of Milan, as well of Lancequenets by the way of Trent, as from the Vicery of Na∣ples; and besides, they dayly expected the Duke of Bourbon, who was comming into Italy as Lieutenant generall to the Emperor.

Now in the midest of all these armes, the motion of peace betwixt the Em∣peror [ 50] and the French King was not altogether interrupted, for the Archbishop of Barri, who for a time had beene his Holinesse Nuncio in France, was for that purpose gone into Spaine to treate of the conditions of peace, the which

in respect of an vniuersall quiet like was like-wise very pleasing to the Venetians, not without suspition neuer-the-lesse, that it would come to passe as it had at o∣ther times happened, that those Princes shold afterwards agree together to ouer∣runne* 1.640 them: yet not-with-standing, they would not without some other greater occasion faile in ought where-vnto they were tyed by their last confederacy: and therefore they sent to their Prouidator, (vpon the report that the Imperialls would march into the field) willing him to crosse the Adda, and to ioyne with the Viceroy of Naples, leauing strong garrisons in their frontier townes, and to take care to lodge euer in safe and strong places, and especially to auoide, as much as he could, from being enforced to enter into Milan. [ 10]

The Duke of Vrbin neuer-the-lesse made some difficulty to execute that com∣mandement, and to passe the Adda, thinking no safety to bee therein till the Lancequenets were first of all come into the field with the Marquis of Mantuas* 1.641 forces; as also for that hee had intelligence, that great numbers of Swisses were come to the French Campe, who were thought to bee ten thousand: in regard whereof, being entreated by the Imperialls, to ioyne with them at Beauregard, he refused to doe so, because that Quarter was but foure miles off from the French campe, whereby it was to be feared, that approaching so neere the enemies, they might be enforced against their wil and to their disaduantage to come to a battail: as also for that two thousand Swisses were lately come to Laude, and it was [ 20] to bee doubted that they would come and assaile the Territory of Crema, or the Bergamask, whither it was like-wise reported that sixe thousand Grysons were comming, sent by the French King, who had at the same time dismissed the Vene∣tian Ambassador resident in his Court.

But the Imperialls still soliciting the Duke of Vrbin to ioyne with them, the Senate, to take away all suspition of bad dealing, commanded their Generall to* 1.642 doe it, hauing in the meane time leuied three thousand Italian foot, and foure hundred light horse which were stradiots, for the gard and defence of their towns; the command of whome was giuen to Iohn Mora, who was elected gouernor of [ 30] Crema, with title of Prouidator Generall of the Bressan Teritory. At the same∣time Petro Pesare was sent Prouidator to the army insted of Heme who fell sicke, and was retyred to Venice.

The Venetian Army being come to Tressa, and the Marquis of Mantua be∣ing gone to Pauia, the French army was in great want of victualls, all passages be∣ing stopped whereby they were wont to be brought to them, wherein the Vene∣tian army purchaced great praise, especially the Venetian Stradiots, so as the Admirall fearing him-selfe to fall into the same want of victualls wherevnto hee thought to haue reduced the Citty of Milan, resolued to discampe, and to retire some twelue miles from the Citty. [ 40]

At this stay stood their affaires, when Pope Adrian dyed on the foureteenth day of September, to the great losse and discommodity of the confederates, to* 1.643 whome by his death the Pontificall authority was not onely wanting, but likewise the pecuniary contribution, wherevnto hee was tyed by the Capitulations of the confederacy. So soone in a manner as the Admirall was departed from before Milan, the Cardinalls, who had already beene fifty daies in the conclaue, created* 1.644 a new Pope, which was, Iulius of Medicis, who tooke vpon him the name of Clement the seauenth.

This election certainly was very pleasing to all men, for the great opinion that the whole world had conceiued of him, because hee was a man of great autho∣rity and worth, and reputed to bee graue and constant in his determinations. [ 50] The Senate being desirous to let him know how highly they loued and hono∣red* 1.645 him, appointed eight Ambassadors to goe and congratulate him for his new promotion: and to present him with their vsuall obedience: the Ambassadors

were Marco Dandulo, Ieronimo Pesaure, Dominico Veniero, Vincentio Capel, Tho∣maso Contaren, Lorenzo Bragadino, Nicolo Tepula, and Lodouico Bono.

Within a while after Prince Grimani dyed, after hee had gouerned one yeare and tenne moneths, hee was with great pompe carried to Saint Antho∣nies Church.

[illustration]

ANDRE GRITTI [ 10] the 77. Duke.

[ 20]

[ 30]

ANDRE GRITTI, Procurator of Saint Marke, a man very famous for his rare and singular vertues, was chosen in his place, who had already in time before managed [ 40] abroad and at home, the most important affaires of the Common wealth.

After this manner was the yeare 1523. ended. At* 1.646 the beginning of the next following, the French mens difficulties, did inuite the Emperors Captaines to thinke on meanes how to finish the warres: for this purpose They sent for the Duke of Vrbin to Milan, with Petro* 1.647 Pesare the Prouidator of the Army, to consult how they should proceed in the warres, where all men were of opinion, that so sone as the sixe thousand Lancequenets, which the Viceroy had sent to leuy, should be arriued at Milan, [ 50] the Emperors army togither with that of the Venetians should assaill the ene∣mies, and either by force or famine driue them forth of the Dutchy of Mi∣lan, who beeing already reduced to extreame want of victualls, and mony, did dayly disband at the head of their Armie, the which the Admirall

perceiuing, did still by little and little retire forth of the State of Milan. This retreat of the French caused the Venetian army to aduance foreward, the which being come to Binasca, did ioyne with the Viceroy and the Marquis of Mantua, who hauing left a sufficient garrison in Milan, were come into the field, and fin∣ding themselues to be strong, they came within fiue miles of the French Camp, thereby keeping them not only from scouring the Contrey, but from victuals which were wont to come vnto them. And the Imperials and the Venetians* 1.648 growing afterwards more bold, did crosse the Thesin neere to Pauia, to make themselues masters of the contrey, and to take from the enemies those commo∣dities which they vsed to receiue from thence. [ 10]

The French wondring at the enemies boldnesse were likewise enforced to passe the same riuer to oppose themselues against their deseignes, the Duke of Vrbin hauing passed Thesin beganne to scoure the Contrey, and hauing on euery side beaten the plaines, he went and encamped before Garlas, a towne strongly fenced with dikes and Rampiers, wherein were foure hundred Italian footmen, to which after he had made a breach, he gaue an assault the very same day, and tooke it by* 1.649 force, with great slaughter of those that were within it. The taking of this towne caused diuers others to yeeld vnto him.

The Admirals hope beeing grounded vpon two points, both of them failed him: The one was that Rante de Cera comming downe with eight thousand Gri∣sons [ 20] into the Venetians territories, would constraine them to call back their for∣ces to defend their owne Contrey: aud the other was, that the ayd of Suisses which the King sent to him would speedily arriue, and fill vp his army which was much diminished; but both those hopes prooued vaine. For the Grisons would not depart from their houses, when they vnderstood that they should find resist∣ance and no aide, and the Suisses being come to the bankes of the riuer Stesia,* 1.650 tarried there still, beeing not able to passe it by reason of the great encrease of the waters: wherevpon the Admirall being pressed by the Enemies and the nomber of his forces daily decreasing, being desirous to ioyne with them, commanded a bridge to be made ouer that riuer, and the day following he caused all his soldiers [ 30] to passe ouer to the Suisses, the enemies being lodged within two miles of them.

Now the Imperialls perceiuing in what disorder the French were retired, who left diuers peices of Ordnance, with other munition behind them, intreated the Duke of Vrbin to pursue them in their company, wherevnto the Duke of Vrbin seemed to consent: But the Prouidator refusing so to doe, the Venetians would not passe ouer the riuer, thinking that they had already passed farther then they were tyed to by the bonds of the Confederacy, by which they were bound to no∣thing elce but for the defence of the Dutchy of Milan, and they had entred into the lands of the Duke of Sauoy: for which refusall the Duke of Vrbin was greatly [ 40] commended, and the Senate being desirous to acknowledge it, albeit he had not serued them long, did neuerthelesse honour him with the Title of Generall of all their forces, as well horsse as foot, with a present recompence.

Now whilst the Venetians were busied in this war, sondry cares & dangers trou∣bled them from elsewhere, for they had intelligence that Soliman practized some high attempt, and was desirous to execute it, by reason that he made great prepa∣rations of Soldiers and armor, the which did much amaze them, and caused them* 1.651 to keepe strong garrisons in all their sea townes, and cheefly in the Ile of Ciprus, whereunto they knew the Turke aspired; and to furnish that expence, imposed a loane, as well on their perticular cit•…•…izens, as on al their citties and subiects, which [ 50] speedily furnished them with ready money.

In this meane time the French King, notwithstanding the bad successe of his army, had neither lost his courage, nor his desire to returne into Italy, being the more prouoked thereunto by the disdaine which he had conceiued of the

Emperor, who not beeing satisfied with taking vpon him the defence of the state* 1.652 of Milan did moreouer trouble him in his owne Realme, by stirring, vp the King of England against him wherevpon, he made great warlike preparations to re∣turne himselfe in person into Italy the which he hoped to doe with more ease and speed, because his Army was safely returned into France.

These newes did greatly trouble the Senators, not only in regard of the huge expence they were to be at, by reason of their alliance with the Emperor for the defence of the state of Milan, but likewise for the feare they were in of their owne* 1.653 state, the French King beeing mightely incensed against them, not so much for that which they had done in their last encounters, as for that they being since then sollicited to returne to his alliance and to quit the Emperors, they had wholy [ 10] refused it.

The Venetians being then aduertised that the French army passed the mounts, did cause all their forces, which lay in sondry places in Garrison, to meet on the Verona territory, whether they sent word to the Duke of Vrbin to come, and wil∣led Pessare their Prouidator to goe thither with all speed, to waite what should be commanded him. The Pope in the meane time being shaken with feare, & sondry suspitions, told the Venetians, that it was well done to be vnited with himselfe and the Emperor and to proceed matu•…•…ely in all matters, for the liberty of Italy, and* 1.654 for the defēce of the stare of Milan that they possibly could: but if they should not [ 20] find themselues strong enough to resist the mighty army of the French, it were better to seeke in time to reconcile themselues to the most Christian King, then to delay it till he should fiercely march against them, thereby to auoyd those in∣solencies, which doe vsually follow victories: He willed them to consider that the power of the French was very great and of force to ouerturne the whole state of Italy: and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 they should doe well to send ample power and authority to Marco Eoscare their Ambassador at Rome, to treat of that which the French had already offered them.

Though the Pope propounded all this by way of Councell, yet neuerthelesse* 1.655 it was perceiued thereby, that his meaning tended to a new confederacy with the [ 30] French the better to assure the state of the Church, and that of Florence: For which the Senate did not yet perceiue any reason, so soone, and without cause to quit the Emperors alliance, to returne to that of the French King, seeing it would 〈◊〉〈◊〉 argued ouermuch lightnesse and inconstancy, and small discretion to make the Emperor their en•…•…my, before they were certaine of the French Kings will: and therefore they had determined that their army should enter into the state of Milan, to be employed in the Emperors seruice, but the Duke of Vrbin before he would execu•…•…e their determination sent them word how dangerous a matter it were for the Common-wealth, to send their army abroad at that time, because that if they with their forces should assure the state of Milan, it was to be feared that the enemy would turne his deseignes somewhere elce, and perhaps against [ 40] their 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and therefore he said that it were best to tarry till the French army had passed the riuer Sila, before that they did put their resolution in practise. But* 1.656 the French making great hast, were sooner in the Dutchy of Milan then they were lookt for, and from 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 directly to the Citty, they came to the sub∣•…•… of the gate of Thesin, before it could be sufficiently rampierd and prouided 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 herevpon all the Captaines were of opinion to forsake it: therfore the Duke 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉, the Viceroy and Sforza retired to Soncina with all the* 1.657 troopes 〈◊〉〈◊〉 within it; and the Marquis of Pescara to Lauda; but they gaue 〈◊〉〈◊〉 order, that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 might be well fortefied and stored with soldiers and all other necessary prouisions, into the which A•…•…tonia de 〈◊〉〈◊〉 entred with [ 50] three hundred 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and fiue thousand foot, partly Spaniards and Al∣maines 〈◊〉〈◊〉 all of them old soldiers. In this sort did the French recouer the Citty of Milan, into the which the King would not haue the army enter least they

should sack it. At the same time Iohn Stuard Duke of Albanie, appointed by the* 1.658 King to goe and enuade the Realme of Naples, with two hundred Lances, seauen hundred light horse, and foure thousand Suisses, craued passage of the Pope tho∣row the Churches territories, and thorow Tuscany, to march to that enterprise, which was resolued on to draw the Imperiall forces thither, to the end that the defence of the state of Milan might bee weakned, where dayly sundry townes yeelded without any great difficulty.

All the cheefe exploits of warre were neere vnto Pauia, whither the King* 1.659 with his whole army was come to besiege it, resoluing not to stirre from thence till hee had taken it, thinking that it would greatly diminish his reputation, if [ 10] hauing so goodly an armie, hee should leaue such a Citty behinde him, so well stored with Soldiors and victuals, as that was. The King had (according to the common report) not reckoning those who stayed at Milan, two thousand Lan∣ces, eight thousand Lansquenets, sixe thousand Suisses, sixe thousand Pioners, and foure thousand Italians: the number of whom did afterwards very much encrease, with great prouision of Artillery, and the flower of all the French Nobility.

The Imperials on the other side placed their chiefe hope in the conseruation of that Citty, and therefore all men were desirous to see, what the euent of that siege would bee, especially the Pope and the Venetians, fearing on the one side, the French Kings armes who was displeased with them, if hee should prooue the [ 20] * 1.660 victor, and on the other, those of the Imperialls, if chasing thence the French, they should become maisters of Italy.

Amidst these sundry thoughts, they shewed themselues in a manner newters, neither sending their forces to the ayde of the Imperialls, nor agreeing in any sort with the French, expecting with good deuotion the successe of Pauia, which beeing reduced to a siege, did seeme would bee very long. The Pope neuerthelesse thinking it to bee a part of his duty, to procure peace betwixt these Princes, sent* 1.661 his Datarie to the Kings Campe to treate of an agreement, wherevnto the King seemed to condiscend, the Viceroy was soone aduertised thereof by his Holy∣nesse, to the end hee might testifie that his desire was conformable to the duty [ 30] wherevnto hee was obliged by the place and degree that hee held, to vnite the Emperor and the most Christian king in a firme peace and friendship, that all of them together might afterwards arme against the power of Soliman, who was already in the field with a mighty Armie.

The conditions of the treaty of peace propounded by the Pope, were, That* 1.662 the Emperor should enioy the kingdome of Naples, and the French king the Duchy of Milan, with particular promise not to passe on any farther into Italy, without the Popes knowledge and consent. This treaty hauing continued for certaine daies, no effect thereof succeeded, but onely iealousies betwixt the French* 1.663 and Spaniards: wherevpon the Venetians were againe solicited by both parties [ 40] to fauour their sides. The Count of Carpi came to Venice from the French to solicite the Senate to renue their alliance with the most Christian king, or at least∣wise, that they would not bee against him: The Viceroy on the other side, sent Charles of Arragon thither, to require them to send those forces which they were bound to by the capitulations of the league: They answered the French Am∣bassador in generall termes, how that they had referred all that businesse to the Pope: but to him the Viceroy sent, albeit they did not refuse his demand, yet ne∣uerthelesse they answered coldely, as those who knew very well how to fit their councels to the euent of things, and this irresolution of theirs continued till such time as the Pope had very secretly concluded with the French king, both for him∣self [ 50] & them, wherevpon, when they came to resolution in the Senate, their opini∣ons were different, either because in many of them the memory of their ancient •…•…lliance with the French King was renewed, or else for that they supposed hee

would prooue victorious, in regarde of the great forces that hee had ready in* 1.664 Italy, against enemies that were wholy vnready and very ill prouided of all ne∣cessaries: which caused them rather to encline to the French, then to the Imperials.

According then to this resolution, a peace, and league betwixt the Pope, the King, and the Venetians was determined and concluded at Rome with the Am∣bassadors,* 1.665 in the beginning of Ianuary, the yeare 1525. and confirmed after∣wards by the Senate at Venice. This treaty beeing handled very secretly, the Senate beeing most importunately vrged by the Emperors Ambassadors, to ioyne their troopes with the Imperiall Armie, after sundry excuses, answered that [ 10] they would not contradict the Popes command, and least of all at that time when they were vpon a treaty of peace which his Holynesse pursued by the Emperors consent, and that therefore they would not interrupt it, nor bee a a meanes to prolong the warre.

The league beeing thus concluded, the French King sent the Bailiffe of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to Venice, to congratulate them, and to assure them of his loue to the Common∣wealth, from which hee promised neuer to diuide himselfe. Hee did afterwards require that the same accord, which was secretly concluded, might be published abroad, wherevnto the Venetians did freely condescend: thinking it to bee the [ 20] * 1.666 best, thereby to cause the Imperials, who expected their ayde, to hope no longer for it, and that they beeing destitute of their helpe, dispairing of bee∣ing able to keepe the State of Milan, might retire some-where else, or incline to peace.

The Pope was of a contrary opinion, saying, That the treaty ought not to be* 1.667 published, the better to reduce the Imperials to greater necessity and danger, which would happen so soone as the French should passe the Po, which they said they would doe, promising to repasse it at the Popes pleasure: but time and ne∣cessity pressing him to discouer himselfe, in regard hee was to grant passage to the Duke of Albany thorow the Churches territories, for his iourney into the Realme of Naples: the Pope made shew, as if the Duke of Albany would passe [ 30] by force and violence with his troopes thorow the lands of the Church and the Florentines, and that for himselfe hee would remaine neutrall in that warre, and seeke to procure an vniuersall peace and concord, protesting against those two* 1.668 Princes, and admonishing them both to throw downe Armes, to come to an agreement, and to lay in deposito in the hand of a third person not suspected, whatsoeuer did yet hold out in the Dutchy of Milan, for the Emperor, and Duke: Hee gaue notice thereof to the Viceroy by Paul Vettori, Captaine of his Galleys, as also how he could not stop the Duke of Albanies passage, but that it behoo∣ued him to bee assured of him by new conuentions, hee likewise sent him diuerse other articles, which hee hoped to insert in the peace. [ 40]

These propositions caused the Imperialls to suspect that the Pope had agreed* 1.669 with the French King, (as in effect hee had done) for perceiuing themselues en∣forced at one time, with great want of money to maintaine the warre in Lom∣bardie, and to haue an eye to the kingdome of Naples, they could neuer bee ay∣ded eyther by the Pope or the Florentines, and were besides very well assured that the Venetians would forsake them, who entertaining the Imperiall Captaines with hope that they would obserue the league, did deferre the execution thereof with sundry excuses, so as the Viceroy was euen at the point to returne with his Army into the Realme of Naples for the safety thereof.

But in the Councell held for that purpose, the opinion of the Marquis of Pes∣cara [ 50] * 1.670 did wholy pr•…•…uaile, who shewing himselfe no lesse couragious then discreet, sayd, That it was most necessary to continue the warre of Lumbardy, and that on the victory thereof, all other matters did depend.

The Emperor at the same time according to his alliance made with the King

of England, did so handle the matter, that the said king should the yeare following come to Calais with a mighty army to make war on France, who to that end sent a Knight to the Emperors Campe, which caused the Imperials to hold out more boldly, as being assured that the Christian King assailed in his own Realme, would be enforced to raise his camp, & to hast thither for the defence thereof, the agree∣ment made betwixt the Pope, himself, & the Venetians, being not as yet diuulged.

The newes then of the King of Englands great warlike preparations for his comming downe into France, beeing blazed abroad, caused the Venetians not to hasten the publication of the agreement, fearing least the King, vpon that re∣port, might bee enforced to lead his forces else where. But the successe of the [ 10] enterprise of Lombardy, and of all other deseignes, depended at the last on the siege of Pauia, which held out longer then all men expected: the which the Pope and the Venetians did very much distaste, not altogether so much for the length thereof, as fearing least the French Captaines, impatient of so long* 1.671 stay, should perswade the King to goe and charge the enemies, and by that meanes commit to the hazard of fortune, not oney his Armie, but likewise their states, and the liberty of Italy, which (hauing none other meanes to with∣stand the Imperialls, if they should become victorious) would prooue their prey.

In the meane time the siege of Pauia still continued, notwithstanding that for want of munition, the battery did in some sort cease, which was forth-with re∣medied [ 20] by the Duke of Ferrara, who caused great store to bee brought to the Campe thorow the Pa•…•…mesan and Placentine tenitorics, by the carriages and beasts of husbandmen. But the Imperiall forces beeing augmented by the suc∣cours which were newly arriued, and the Viceroy hauing notice of the decay of the Kings Armie, by reason of the long winter that they had continued in* 1.672 field, as also that the King had diuiden his Army (namely those whom the Duke of Albany led, and fiue thousand men that the Marquis of Saluces had with him at Sauona, and the places neerc 〈◊〉〈◊〉, besides great numbers of others, who remained as well at Milan as in other places, for the safety of Victuals) determi∣ned, till the Duke of Bourbon with the Lansquenets should arriue, to marche in∣to [ 30] the field for the reliefe of 〈◊〉〈◊〉. But the Duke of Bourbon arriued in the meane time, with fiue hundred Bourgonian men at armes, and six thousand Lans∣quenets whom the Archduke paide: wherevpon pursuing their iourney, not de∣termining to giue the King battaile vnlesse it were vpon great aduantage, but onely to trye if they could put fresh succours and victuals into the Citty, they came and lodged without the Parke, on the side of the Chartreuse, with in Can∣non shot of the Kings Campe, who beeing perswaded by all his followers to dis∣campe, and to retire either to Binasca or to Milan, and that therby without bloud or danger hee might forthwith obtaine the victory, because that the enemies Ar∣my beeing without money, could not long hold out, but would bee enforced to [ 40] * 1.673 dissolue it self, or to be scartered vp and down heere and there about the countrey: Hee would not for all that giue ouer the fiege of Pauia, thinking that it would highly shame and disgrace him, if that Army wherein hee was in person, should see me to be afraide, and giue place at the enemies comming.

The Imperialls then hauing made two squadrons of horse, and foure of foot, they came thorow she Parke wall, of which they had beaten downe three score* 1.674 •…•…athom, some of them directly to Mirabel, & the residue to the kings camp, where after •…•… so 〈◊〉〈◊〉 fight o•…•… •…•…ither side, the king being with great numbers of mē at armes in the midst of the battaile, fighting valiant•…•…y, his horse was slaine vnder him, and [ 50] * 1.675 falling to the ground, being 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in the face and in the hand, was taken by fiue sol∣diore 〈◊〉〈◊〉 knew him not: but the Viceroy 〈◊〉〈◊〉, hee made himselfe knowne to him, who with great reuerence kissed his hands, and receiued him prisoner for the Emperor. All the French Army was forthwith put to rout, & the greatest part of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 were disarmed, the rereward of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 excepted, conducted by the duke of Alançon. This so great & famous a victory obteined by the Imperials ouer the

French; did greatly afflict the Venetians with care, fore-seeing the great burthen they were to vndergoe, the counterpoize of the French forces failing them, and all the other Princes of Italy beeing too weake to make resistance: and were* 1.676 greatly affrighted with that successe, they alone beeing to defend the liberty of Italy, against such a mighty enemy, growne great in strength and reputation: beeing yet doubtfull whether hee would conteine himselfe within the limits of the Dutchy of Milan, or else beeing puffed vp with that fortunate successe, passe on farther and follow the course of his victory.

Their whole forces were but a thousand men at armes, sixe hundred light horse, and tenne thousand foot, and resoluing to leuy more, they exhorted all [ 10] the other potentats of Italy to do the like according to their strength and means: but they cheefely laboured to vnite themselues with the Pope, supposing that all other Italian Princes would depend on his authority: vnto whom after they had declared all the eminent dangers that threatened them, and that he had attentiue∣ly heard them, they would not for all that, induce him to make any braue resolu∣tion, nor hinder him from thinking on an accord, determining to accept such an one as it should please the conqueror to offer him, rather then with his owne forces, and those of his friends and confederates, oppose himselfe against the vio∣lence* 1.677 that might bee offered him: and hee had already begun to treate with [ 20] the Viceroy, fearing least the Imperiall forces beeing destitute of all meanes, should come and fall vppon the Church territories, and on those of the Florentines.

The Viceroy gaue a willing eare to the agreement which the Pope craued, knowing of what importance it was for the confirmation of the victory, and for the drawing of himselfe and the Armie forth of many necessities where-with they were oppressed, supposing likewise that by his example all the other Prin∣ces of Italy dooing the like, it was no more to bee feared that the French would euer afterwards come and raise any tumults in Italy.

The Venetians hauing discouered this treaty, and knowing how many incon∣ueniences the Popes safety would bring vpon them, they not beeing able to di∣uert [ 30] him from his intent, proceeded slowly in their determinations, without breaking off altogether with the Imperialls, nor likewise contracting any other alliance with them, but they sought to perswade the Pope, that for their last re∣fuge* 1.678 (because they would not bee found vnfurnished, if the accord which hee sought to make show of, haue no good successe,) to leuy ten thousand Suisses, and at the same instant to dispatch a Nuncio to the King of England, to entreate him to succour Italy in such an vrgent necessity: that they likewise would send an Ambassador to the same King, to make the like request, whereby they hoped to obtaine some speedy ayde of him: such great enuies and distrusts had that victory procured vnto Charles. [ 40]

But the Venetians perceiuing that the Popes intent did wholy tend to an a∣greement with the Imperialls, they likewise resolued to follow him therein, seeing they could not doe otherwise. Therefore the Viceroy hauing sent Iohn Sarmiento to Venice, to aduertise them of the victory, they courteously enterteined him, with great demonstration of loue towards the Emperor: and* 1.679 they sent word to Lorenzo Prieuli and André Nouagero, (who beeing already gone in Ambassage towards Charles, did tarry at Genoa) that they should pro∣secute their iourney into Spaine, to reioyce with him in the Senates behalfe for his gotten victory, and to excuse their delay for not sending their Forces to the Imperiall Campe. [ 50]

Now the Emperor beeing aduertised of this fortunate successe, (albeit in his* 1.680 heart hee was pricked forward with a desire of glory and greatnesse, which made him very ioyfull, yet neuerthelesse shewing by his speech and outward

gesture, a wonderfull modestie, hee assured all men that hee would vse it, as it beseemed that speciall fauour which God had done him, and for the good and quiet of all Christendome: Wherevpon hee forth-with sent the Duke of Sessa to the Pope to offer him peace, and to assure him that hee was wholy dis∣posed* 1.681 to the peace and quiet of all Italy. Hee caused the same speech to hee deliuered to the Venetian Senate by Alonzo Sanchez his Ambassador, and by the Prothonotarie Carracciola, who remained at that time in Venice.

But by how much the Imperialls seemed to desire peace and alliance with the Potentates of Italy, at such time when as they should rather haue beene sought to, then haue solicited others, by so much more they gaue suspition, that they [ 10] practised high and secret enterprises, hurtfull to the liberty of Italy, which caused the Venetians to temporize, without concluding or reiecting those treaties which the Emperor motioned.

The end of the fifth Booke of the fifth [ 20] Decade.

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

THE sorrow which did afflict all France for [ 20] the Kings imprisonment, and the Councels resolution. The Venetians answer to the French Commissioner. Accord betwixt the Pope and the Emperor. The Marquis of Pescara demandeth the Castles of Milan, and Cremona of Sforza. Accord betwixt the Pope and the Venetians. The curtezie which the King of England vsed towards [ 30] the French King. Agreement betwixt the Emperor and French King. The King complaineth of the Emperor. A league concluded at Coignac, betwixt the Pope, the French King, the Venetians, and Francis Sforza. The King of England is entreated to enter into the league, with his answer. Lauda is taken by the Confederates. The Duke of Bourbon commeth to Milan. The Armie of the league retireth from before Milan. The offer of the Pope and the Venetians to the King, concerning the enterprise of the kingdome of Naples. Genoa is besieged by the Confederats. Francis [ 40] Sforza deliuereth the Castle of Milan to the Emperor. The Citty of Cremona is deliuered to the Confederates. Rome is surprised by the Colonnesi, and the Pope maketh an agreement with them. The King of England giueth a great summe of money to the Pope. The Emperors preparations both by land and Sea. The Confederates prouisions to resist the Emperor. The great leuy of Lanfquenets made by George Frondsperg in the Emperors behalfe. The Marquis of Saluffes crosseth the Po with his forces. Foscare exhorteth the Florentines to continue firme in their league. The Spanish Nauall Army flieth [ 50] from the Confederates. The Pope seeketh an accord with the Viceroy. Frosso∣lona is in vaine besieged by the Viceroy. The Confederates Army in the king∣dome of Naples. Aquileia in Abruzzo taken. The Confederates take the

Burrow of Sea. The Confederates summon the Citty of Naples to yeeld. Great disorder in the Armie of the league for want of pay. The Duke of Bour∣bon commeth into the field to beseege Rome. Accord betwixt the Pope and the Viceroy. Cottignola is taken by Bourbon. Great troubles in Florence. Bour∣bon beeing come neere to Rome craues passage of the Pope to goe into Naples. The Duke of Bourbon assaileth Rome. His death. Rome is taken by the Imperialls. And lastly, the great cruelties which they there committed. [ 10]

[ 20]

The Sixth Booke of the fifth Decade of the Historie of Uenice.

THe newes of the battailes losse, with the Kings taking, beeing* 1.682 brought into France, the sorrow and griefe which afflicted the Lady Regent his mother, and all the subiects cannot bee ima∣gined: yet neuerthelesse like a discreet and vertuous Lady, shee determined by all meanes possible to redresse it, and for that purpose hauing sent for all the Princes and Lords which were in France, to come speedily to Lyons, where shee then lay, to determine and pro∣uide for matters concerning the Kings liberty, and the Realmes safety; It was there resolued to send to forraine Princes to vse meanes for the Kings deliuery, and among others to the Venetians, and Gaspar Sorman beeing to that end sent to Venice from the Lady Regent, hee declared vnto them in her name, that albeit the Realme of France did not feare the enuasions of any, but was strong and mighty enough to defend it selfe, and willing to employ all her power for her Kings deliuery; yet neuerthelesse shee entreated the Signory to assist her in so iust a cause, and so profitable for them and all Italy, by ioyning themselues with the Lords of France, to enforme the Emperor Charles to set the King her sonne at liberty, vpon honorable conditions.

The Senate, vpon these entreaties, did manifest their great griefe for the Kings* 1.683 disastrous fortune, with that of the kingdome, declaring the great affection which it did beare to the crowne of France, and for that present made none other an∣swer but this, That because the businesse was of great importance, it deserued to haue the Councell assembled to determine thereof. But during these practises,* 1.684 the Pope, who had sent the Archbishop of Capua into Spaine to make an agree∣ment with the Emperor, did ra•…•…ifie the accord, concluded and determined before with the Viceroy, by which the Venetians were excluded from it, if within

twenty dayes after the signifying thereof, they did not ratifie it, by meanes whereof the Senate was enforced to renew their treaties with the Emperours Ambassadors, and to send, (in regarde of the difficulties of importance which were offered) Petro Pesare to Milan, to treate with the Viceroy.

The French in the meane time did not giue ouer their former pursutes, beeing not yet out of hope to ioyne the Venetians to themselues, (albeit the Popes au∣thoritie might then haue drawne them to a contrary resolution): wherevpon* 1.685 the Bishop of Bayeux, and Ambrose of Florence came to Venice, to make in the name of the said Lady Regent, and in that of the whole Kingdome, more certaine and resolute propositions then at the former time, concerning the league and the Kings freedome. For this cause, as also for that apparent [ 10] signes were dayly discouered of the Emperours great ambition, by reason of the deseignes of his Officers and Agents, which tended onely to make him absolute Lord of the State of Milan, and of all Italy; these French Ambassadors were attentiuely heard in the Senate, and their cause consul∣ted on.

The Marquis of Pescara at the same time entring Milan with three thou∣sand foote, two hundred men at armes, and with great numbers of light horse, required the Duke to deliuer into his hands the Castle of Milan, with that of Cremona, speaking plainely, That hee was come to take possession of [ 20] the Cittie of Milan, beeing sent thither by the Emperour for the same pur∣pose, (in whose name all Proclamations and other Mandates were already published) and although the Pope sought to procure the Emperour to ac∣complish the Articles of the confederacie, by consigning the State of Mi∣lan* 1.686 into the hands of Duke Francis Sforza, all his pursutes were in vaine, for, delaying the matter from day to day, hee made now one excuse, and then an other, imputing to the Duke diuerse faults committed by him, and among others, That hee had treated with the Venetians, to deliuer the Castle of Milan vnto them; a matter which was neuer thought of by eyther of them.

These things with diuerse others, did greatly with-draw the Venetians [ 30] * 1.687 affection from the Emperour, and caused them to giue no more credit to all his promises; nor the Pope likewise, who speedily to preuent those pe∣rills, which threatned them dayly, resolued to ioyne in league, in regarde there was some difficulty, and more trouble and •…•…ediousnesse to call the French into it.

The Pope then renouncing the accord formerly made with the Emperour, contracted a new one, aswell in his owne name as in the Florentines, for* 1.688 the which hee strengthened himselfe with the Duke and Senate of Venice, in which agreement it was mentioned, that they should ioyne together, to preuent those dangers which the experience of things past had taught them [ 40] might happen, and so assure the peace and quiet of Italy, and their owne states in perticular, each of them taking vppon them the protection of one an∣others states and persons, running altogether one selfe-same fortune, not bee•…•… g•…•…wfull for eyther of them to treate with any other Prince, to the pre∣•…•… of that accord; and to succour one an other with foure thousand foote-men, foure hundred men at armes, three hundred light horse, and with gre•…•…er numbers if 〈◊〉〈◊〉 were. And it was more-ouer added there∣vnto, that the Venetians should bee bound to defend and maintaine the greatnesse and power of the house of Medicis, to stoppe and preuent all tu∣mult and commotions which any s•…•…ditious mutins should practise against it, and [ 50] to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and assist him, who soe•…•… hee were, that the Pope should place a•…•… cheefe Gouern•…•… in the Citty of Florence. These things beeing thus

concluded and sworne to, the Pope the better to begin for his part to prepare that which was concluded on, commanded the Marquis of Mantua to visit the Parmesan with his men at armes, taking order besides to hasten the Grisons and Suisse footmen, where they had begun to leuy, but very slowly. The Venetians on the other side determined to encrease their Armie to the number of ten thou∣sand foote, to make a leuy in Greece of other three hundred light horse, and ge∣nerally to prouide for all matters belonging to their safety▪ And that which did greatly incite them therevnto, was, the curtezie which the King of England vsed towards the French, who beeing iealous of the Emperors power and greatnesse, fearing that if hee should grow too mighty, hee might afterwards chance to tread [ 10] * 1.689 him vnder foote, conuerted his ill will towards the King into friendship; so as he treated with the Lady Regent, and the Councell of France, promising them all ayde and succour possible, as well of men as money to set the King at liberty, and to free Italy from all oppression.

This treaty beeing passed betwixt the Pope and the Venetians, gaue hope that they should bee vnited with the Realme of France, but they proceeded therein after an vnusuall manner, because that the Pope, supposing that by the confe∣deracie which hee had already made, hee had time enough to preuent dangers, and to bee able in the meane time to obtaine more reasonable conditions of the Emperor, hee proceeded very slowly in his agreement with the French, and [ 20] cheefely since the Duke of Sessas comming to Rome, who was sent from the Em∣peror to his Holynesse▪ to signifie vnto him the great desire hee had to peace, and to restore Francis Sforza vnto the Dutchy of Milan, beeing found innocent of those crimes imposed vpon him, or if hee were guilty, to inuest his brother Maxi∣millian in it. But the Venetians not relying on his promises, made earnest sute to agree with the French, meaning not to trust to his offers, which onely tended to breake the league, and to delay the prouisions of warre, they likewise fearing* 1.690 least the French should enter into league with the Emperour, as they were desi∣rous to doe for the recouery of their King, and all their practises should by that meanes prooue vaine.

That hapned which they had foreseene, in the beginning of the yeare 1526.* 1.691 when the newes yet vnhoped for arriued at Venice, of the attonement betwixt the Emperor and the most Christian King, by which the King was not onely set at liberty, but likewise a firme peace established betwixt them, by meanes of the Kings mariage with the Lady Eleonor the Emperors sister, & that of the Empe∣ror* 1.692 with the sister to the King of Portugall: and that the Duke of Bourbon should haue the Dutchy of Milan, and should marry the Lady René, sister in law to the King.

This was that which they had euer most feared, but this doubt was for that time cleered, the Lady Regent hauing sent ample power and commission to Al∣bert de Carpi her Ambassador at Rome, to conclude the league, the which did trouble the Pope and the Venetians: But it lasted not long, by reason of a com∣mon rumor that was spred abroad, that King Francis would neuer performe to the Emperor, that which hee had beene enforced to consent to, and that which made it credible, was, for that it was reported, that after his departure from Spaine, hee was much discontented with his entertainment in the time of his imprisonment, and especially because that to free himselfe from thence, hee had signed a very disaduantageous contract by the which he quitted the Dutchie of Bourgondy to the Emperor.

Now that they might truly know what his intent was, the Senate determined, (albeit they had decreed to send two of the cheefe of the Citty in Ambassage to him, to condole with him for his fortunes past, and also to reioice for his deliuery and manage) not to spend so much time as an Ambassage would require, but they so•…•…nly sent into France Andre Ressi Secretary to the Preguays, where with more

speed and lesse suspition, might negociate a businesse of so great importance: and the Pope following their example, sent Paulo Vettori thither for the same purpose.

These men needed not greatly to labour to bee assured of his meaning. For after hee had louingly enterteined them, in the first discourse that hee held with either of them apart, hee did greatly complaine of the Emperors inhumanity towards him whilest hee was prisoner, not vsing him as beseemed so great a Prince as hee* 1.693 was: assuring them that hee was no lesse free then ready to moderate the Emperors insolency, wherevpon, the Kings conclusion was, that if the Pope and Venetians would send Commissioners, the league should bee presently made, the which they said was best to bee done in France, to the end the King of [ 10] England might the more easily bee drawne into it, whom they hoped would prooue a party:

Hee sayd likewise that hee would ratifie whatsoeuer had beene begunne, and for the most part concluded on by the Lady Regent his Mother, and the Councell of the Kingdome; they were then onely to bring ample au∣thority from their Princes to contract, because that then hee would shew them how conformable his affection and good will was towards the common safety:

That hee did hope to finde in the King of England, the same intent and [ 20] like desire to abate the Emperours greatnesse, and to prouide for the defence of Italy:* 1.694

That hee would out of hand send his Ambassadors to him, and that if the Italian Princes would doe the like, it would greatly helpe and further the cause;

That with the forces of so many Potentates ioyned together, they might more easily resist the deseignes of the Imperialls.

So soone as the Venetians vnderstood this answer, so conformable to their desire, they sent instructions and ample Commission to Rossi to conclude the league: the Articles whereof beeing before determined, were easily passed, some few things beeing altered. [ 30]

Gasparo Spineli the Secretary was likewise commanded, (who at the same time,* 1.695 was Agent for the Signory, with the King of England) to vse meanes to induce that King to enter into that league, by declaring vnto him the great opinion which all men had conceiued of him, and the great account which was made of his authority, and that they onely craued him to bee Protector of that accord, and defender of the liberty of Italy.

But the Pope proceeded very slowly therein, so as they were enforced often∣times to vrge him to it, wherevpon the Ambassador of the Common-wealth* 1.696 resident at Rome, shewed him dayly the goodly occasion which presented it selfe, for the procuring of their common safety, in that the French King was de∣sirous [ 40] to reuenge the wrongs which hee said hee had receiued of the Emperor: and that if the same desire should grow colde, and they two chance to agree together, by the Kings obseruing the treatye of Madrid, there was no more hope of defending Italy from the cruell and slauish yoake of the Spaniards.

The Pope beeing mooued by these remonstrances, resolued to send Caponi into France, in whom hee reposed great trust, with instructions and speciall power to conclude that league, albeit that at the same time Don Hugo de Moncado, comming to Rome from the Emperour, did treate to the contrary: and had in the same manner almost negociated by letters with the Senate [ 50] of Venice, to whom so soone as hee was come to Milan, hee gaue notice of his arriuall into Italy, and of the cause why the Emperour had sent him.

But the Pope and Venetians answered all his requests in one forme, That when soeuer the Emperour should seeme desirous of peace, hee should finde them dis∣posed therevnto, but that hee was to shew it in deeds, to which they would giue* 1.697 more credit then to words: that hee should doe well to raise his siege from be∣fore the Castle of Milan, to restore Francis Sforza to his state, and to accomplish whatsoeuer hee was tyed vnto by the Articles of the Confederacie, and that then it would bee a fit time to talke of laying downe armes, and of setling peace and quiet in Italy: but his answer heere-vnto was in generall tei mes: whereby they plainly perceiued, that this speech of peace tended to none other end but to delay with vaine hope the prouisions for warre, and by those cunnings to estrange the [ 10] French from the Princes of Italy.

They had almost obtained their desire, the French beeing not so greatly affec∣tionate to the league as they were at the beginning, either because the King was not well assured of the Pope and Venetians mindes, by reason of their practises with Don Hugo de Moncado (albeit they were communicated to him) or, (as some* 1.698 thought) that hee would but make vse of the name of the league, onely to make the agreement more easie, and to redeeme his children whom hee had giuen in hostage to the Emperor; and that insteed of Bourgondy, hee should take some other recompence: namely, for that the Bishop of Bayeux his Ambassador at Venice, sent thither for that purpose was a whole moneth without receiuing any [ 20] letters from the King, either for the conclusion of the league, or for the executi∣on of that which had beene agreed vpon; wherevpon the Pope and the Veneti∣ans resolued to send againe into France, and with new offers to end the businesse of the league: to the which at last, the King, after that hee had intelligence that the Emperor would alter none of the Articles of the Capitulations made at Madrid, began more to incline, and vpon the tenth day or May 1526. it was* 1.699 concluded at Coignac▪ betwixt those of the Councell, and the Kings Procura∣tors on the one si•…•…e and the Agents of the Pope and the Venetians on the other. The chiefe points of which, were, That betwixt the Pope, the French King, the Venetians, and the Duke of Milan, (for whom the Pope and the Venetians [ 30] promised the ratification) there should bee a perpetuall league and confederacy▪ to the end that Francis Sforza might freely enioy the D•…•…tehy of Mi•…•…an, and the children of France be set at liberty, by receiuing an honorable ransome, which the King of England should appoint, with other particular obligations concer∣ning the preparations of the warre concluded with the Councell of the Realme before the Kings deliuery.

In this manner then was the league concluded, but it was not presently publi∣shed, because they tarried for the King of Englands resolution, whom they de∣sired should bee named one of the cheefe Contractants. Therefore the Confe∣derate Princes resolued to send an expres•…•…e message into England, to solicite [ 40] him forth with to declare himselfe against the Emperour in the behalfe of the league: Iohn Baptista Sangua, a man of singular wisedome went thither from the* 1.700 Pope, Iohn l•…•…q i•…•… from the French King, and Marc Antonio Veniero for the Ve∣netians. But the King of England albeit hee seemed to bee de•…•…ous to listen to that agreement, as beeing distasted of the Emperor▪ resolued ne•…•… helesse not to make any publick demonstration thereof, vntill hee had first of all requested* 1.701 the Emperour Charles to gratifie the Confederates so much, as to set the chil∣dren of the most Christian King at liberty, and re•…•…der the state of Milan to Francis Sforza, and for want of so dooing, to protest against him, and to denounce [ 50] warre, in the name of all the confederates.

Now because it would haue beene too long to haue proceeded after this man∣ner, by reason of the difficulties which might haue beene made, such as it was, it was published with great •…•…olemnity, they thinking themselues strong enough to abate the Imperiall pride.

There was at the same time in the Venetians army, tenne thousand foot, nine hundred men at armes, and eight hundred light horse, and they daily expected great nombers of Suisses, paid partly by the Pope and the Venetians, and partly by the French King, at whose arriuall they resolued to march to the releefe of the* 1.702 Castle of Milan and to trie if they could take the Citty. The Marquis of Salusses on the other side with the French men at armes, and tenne thousand foot, waged at the common charge of the league, was •…•…o enter the Dutchy of Milan, and to assaile N•…•…ara and Alexandria, whilst in an other place order should be taken for anauall Army.

The Venetians commanded their Generall, and Petro Pesare their Prouidator [ 10] to goe and encampe speedily at Chiari, vpon the Bressan terrritory, which was the rendezuous of all their troopes: and those of the Pope, commanded by Fran∣cisco Guicciardin came vpon the Parmesan, to the end they might ioyne together* 1.703 and then ma•…•…h whether it should be thought fittest for the seruice of the league. In the meane time Malateste Baillone with a band of the Venetian troopes march∣ed to Lauda, where he had intelligence with Lodouico Visturlin a gentleman of the same Citty; and albeit there lay within it fifteene hundred footmen in Garrison, he did neuerthelesse with ease seaze on it and became master therof, and kept it in the name of Francis Sforza.* 1.704

After the taking heereof the whole Venetian army passed the Po, and within [ 20] two dayes after, ioyned it selfe with the Popes, and all of them together marched directly towards Milan, the Duke of V•…•…bin beeing in great hope to take the Cit∣ty, because it had beene told him that vpon their arriuall the People would life, and take armes in their behalfe, and that the Imperialls Captaines •…•…ring it, had already sent their riches and bagage forth of the Citty, meaning forth-with to a∣bandon it. And vpon this hope of the people rising, and of the enemies disor∣der, Lodouico, Earle of Belgie, requested the Duke of Vrbin to giue him two thousand footmen, with whom he offered to releeue the Castle of Milan.

Now the Confederates Army beeing come very neere to the Citty was lodg∣ed [ 30] at the Monastery of Paradis towards the Roman gate, intending to assaile that surburbe, supposing to take it and to lodge there. And albeit the enemies made many sallies and hotte skirmishes, they were still notwithstanding beaten back by* 1.705 those of the league. But the night before the day that the Army should set for∣ward, the Duke of Bourbon who not long before was come to Genoa with six Gallies and bills of Exchange for an hundred thousand Ducats, entred Milan with eight hundred Spanish foote that he had brought with him: He was very much sollicited thereunto by the Marquis of Guasto, and Antonio de Leua. The* 1.706 Duke of Vrbin at these newes dispayring to take the Citty by assault, and fearing some greater disorder, if he should tarry any longer there, raised his campe, [ 40] and retired in good order vnto Marignan, without any losse or empeachment at all.

The Senate, who had conceiued great hope by reason of the armies approach neere Milan, that the Castle would be releeued, which was reduced to extreame want, did greatly wonder, and was sorry, when it vnderstood by the Prouidators letters that they had raised their campe, so that the Duke of Vrbin sent Lodouico Gonsaga to Venice to insti•…•… his actions, who being brought into the Senate yeel∣ded a particular account of what had passed, and of the occasions which mooued him to proceed in that manner, wherewith the Senate was well satisfied; but the Pope was nor so easily appeased, complaining very much not only of this retreat [ 50] but likewise of the whole course of the Duke of Vrbins actions, who did* 1.707 not vouchsafe in any •…•…ort to communicate the affaires of greatest im∣portance to his Lie•…•…enants, the which had greatly mooued him; so as

for to please him, the Senate commanded the Duke of Vrbin euer after to communicate with Guiccardin all matters of importance, which should be hand∣led in the army.

On the other side, they prepared the nauall army, to assaile the sea-townes be∣longing to the Emperor, and to those ends the Venetians hauing appointed Lodouico Armiero for their Prouidator, sent him to Corfou, wher Iohn Mora the o∣ther Prouidator, was with the army, of which, Armiero had commandent to take 12. Gallies, and with them to saile towards Rome, to ioyne with those of the Pope and the most Christian King, that all of them together might direct there course according as they should iudge it to bee necessary and proffitable for the con∣federates. [ 10] Diuers propositions were made concerning those places whither the nauall army was to goe. The Pope desired to haue it goe into Puglia to breake the deseigns of the Colonesie, and to diuert their forces from those places, who hauing at Saint Germans aboue seauen thousand foote, and great numbers of horse, had made them-selues fearefull to the Pope: but the French King and the Venetians thought the enterprize of Genoa to be much more proffitable for the Confederates, as well for the Commodiousnesse of the same citty & for diuers o∣ther enterprizes, as for the great good happe of that exploit, which falling out fortunately would much encrease the reputation of the League: Pedro of* 1.708 Nauarre was declaired Generall of the Confederates Nauall army, a man [ 20] well experienced in Martiall affaires, who although hee was presented by the French King, was neuer-the-lesse entertayned by all the associates to∣gether.

But the Churches Gallies, and those of the Venetians being ready, they were a long time tarrying for those of the French King and the Generall, a mat∣ter which did greatly weary the Pope and Senate, and gaue them iust cause of dis∣content, and to suspect that the French King had changed his mind, by thinking on his owne particular interest, and not caring for that of the league: adding* 1.709 to this suspition other presumptions: That small store of mony had beene sent to the Swisses, in comparrison of the fourty thousand Ducats which hee was [ 30] tyed to giue for the payment of tenne thousand foot of that nation, and that hee had not begun to warre on the Emperor in the parts beyond the mounts ac∣cording to the conclusion.

The King alledged for his excuses, that before hee was to renew that warre, it behoued him to denounce it to the Emperor, although there was no such men∣tion made in the articles of the confederacy: And as concerning the delay of* 1.710 his army, and payment of the Swisses, hee layd all the fault vpon the Captaines and Officers, as the Lord of Langi gaue them to vnderstand at large. For, the most Christian King, fearing least the Confederates beeing distasted of him, should disioyntly agree with the Emperor, he dispatched the said Lord of Langi [ 40] into Italy, for to excuse the long stay of his army, with commission to goe first into Swisserland, to solicite their leuy and departure, or at least-wise to giue them to vnderstand that hee did procure and desire it.

The Lord of Langi beeing come to Venice, made the aboue mentioned ex∣cuses, assuring the Senators that the King was much disposed to warres, and that besides the Gallies hee prepared great shippes of warre in Brettaine, to saill with* 1.711 a mighty army, to ouer-throw at sea all the enemies attempts and deseignes. From thence hee went to Rome where hee executed the same commission: and as for the Swisses, hee said that they had promised to hold a general assembly, where all things should be resolued on in the Kings behalfe; and aboue all things [ 50] he assured the Pope and the Venetians that the King would not enter into any ac∣cord, vnlesse mention were made of a generall peace, and by the consent of all the other confederates. The king made like promise to Iohn Baptista Sa•…•…ga the Roman▪

whom the Pope had sent, (as hath been said) to the King of England: who by the way remained certaine dayes for the same purpose in the French court-

The Senate making shew that his arriuall was most pleasing to them, and that they did wholy giue credit to his saying, answered, that it had neuer doubted of* 1.712 the Kings good will and affection towards the league, and perticularly towards their common-wealth, and therefore it promised, that not only in that businesse, which concerned the common good, but likewise in all other, and at all times, their loue and forces should be inseperably ioyned to his: but as concerning peace, they had neuer refused it; that on the contrary, they had neuer taken armes but with an intent to procure a firme and assured peace: and therefore if they [ 10] might haue it, to the honor of the league and safety of the confederates, it should alway be most acceptable to them: yet neuerthelesse knowing that they might at that time rather desire such a peace then hope for it, they would incite the* 1.713 King to a greater willingnesse to warre: wherevpon the Pope and the Venetians gaue him to vnderstand, that if they should conquer the Kingdome of Naples, it should be for one of his children: the Common wealth retaining only such a por∣tion as should be thought sufficient for the recompence of their costes, labour and trauell.

Vpon this hope, the King promised three hundred lances more, with a surplu∣sage of twenty thousand Ducats euery moneth, for the seruice of the league, [ 20] whensoeuer they should make any enterprise vpon the Kingdome of Naples. Du∣ring these treaties Armiero the Prouidator being departed from Corfou with thirteene Galleis came to Terracina, where finding Andrew Doria with eleuen of the Popes Gallies they went altogether to Ciuitauechia, then from thence to Li∣uorne, where they met with Pedro of Nauarre with foure Gallions and sixteene light Gallies of the French King.

It being then there determined to beseege Genoa and to reduce it to the Kings deuotion, for the great profit and commodity of the confederates, the Army went first to Protouenere, which soone yeelded, with Spetia, and all the other towns vpon the riuer euen to Monega Then the army being deuided, Doria and the Ve∣netian [ 30] Prouidator went to Portofin, twenty miles from Genoa, and Nauarre with the French Army sailed towards Sauona, which forthwith yeeleed to him: The first and cheefe deseigne of the Captaines of the league was, to stoppe victualls from entring by Sea into Genoa, whereof they knew it was badly prouided, and* 1.714 that by keeping it short, they hoped quickly to reduce it vnder their obedience: and for that purpose they placed six Gallies in Gard, two of euery prince, which tooke certaine shippes with other smaller vessells loden with victualls that were going to the Citty: so that it soone felt great want and discommodity. But the be∣seeged were secretly releeued by those of the riuer, who furnished them with part of the victualls, which vpon sondry pretences were suffered to bee [ 40] carried to the neighbor townes, albeit it was not done without some complaint against Doria, who either for some secret enuy that he bare to Nauarre, for that* 1.715 vnder his authority and command his contrey should be vanquished and taken, or for any other deseigne of his owne, was suspected not to haue carried himselfe faithfully as he ought to haue done, nor after such a manner as was requisite for the speedy ending of that businesse.

The Genouois for the assurance of their Citty, had with great speed placed at* 1.716 the mo•…•…th of the hauen certaine great ships loden with Artillery, besides which were six light Gallies, commanded by Gobba Iustinian, who comming foorth at times to skirmish with the enemie, would not goe farther then within Cannon∣sho•…•…te [ 50] of the shippes, placed at the mouth of the Hauen, and of those of the Castle of the Lanthorne, whereby all the hope to take the Citty consisted in the seege, which still continued, the Captaines of the Pope and the

Venetians, hauing intrenched themselues, to be freed from the enemies incursions and surprises, if they should happen to come forth, as also by reason of a tempest at sea, which would not suffer them to draw the army forth of Portefin where it remained.

But the Genowais perceiuing them-selues dayly to be more shut in, determi∣ned to make a sally, and to assaill and beate downe the enemies fortifications: the Captaines of the army hauing notice of the enemies deseigne, landed Phillippin Doria and Iohn Baptista Grimani, with eight hundred foot-men, and two peeces* 1.717 of ordnance, and turned the poopes of the Gallies towards the land, so as the soldiers of the Citty comming to execute their attempts, were not onely coura∣geously [ 10] receiued, but brauely repulsed with great losse.

The Duke of Vrbin at the same time being solicited by the Venetians, and be∣ing prickt forward by a desire to recouer that reputation, which he had lost in their retreat from before Milan, so soone as one part of the Swisses were come to the army, to the number of fiue thousand determined to returne towards Milan, to the releefe of the Castle, in which Sforza still remained: and being come within a mile of the Citty with the army, hee sent two thousand foote-men to take Monce, and the mount of Briança, two places very commodious for victualls which mought be brought forth of those quarters to the Campe. The residew of the army being logded there, and the Captaines being assembled in councell [ 20] to aduise by what meanes to releeue the Castle; which without was enuiro∣ned with double trenches, and great bastions, couered with great numbers* 1.718 of the enemies ordnance, they were aduertized that Sforza, wholy dispayring of releefe, had yeelded himselfe, and had quitted the Castle to the Imperialls, on this composition: That without preiudice to his titles he should giue the Castle of Milan to the Duke of Bourbon, who receiued it in the Emperors name, suffe∣ring him to come forth in safety, with all those that were with him. That it should be lawfull for him to remaine at Coma, which should bee giuen to him for his abode, with the gouernment and reuenue of the same Citty, till such time as the Emperors determination might be knowne concerning his affaires. That a [ 30] safe-conduct should bee giuen him to goe in person to the Emperor: with diuers other articles contained in the agrement, hee came forth of the Castle, and being accompanied by the Imperiall Captaines, hee went to the Barriers of the Army, where hauing continued one whole day, he tooke his iourney towards Coma; but the Imperialls saying, that they had promised to giue him aboade, and safe lodging in Coma, and not to cause their soldiers that lay there in Garrison to dislodge, hee would no more trust to them: And albeit hee had before determined not to doe any thing that might incense the Emperor, hee neuer-the-lesse went to the Campe of the League, being accompanied by the Count of Gajazzo with two hundred light-horse, where hauing remayned [ 40] certaine daies, hee went to Lauda, the which Citty the confederates did wholy restore to him: And because of all the Captulations made with the Imperialls, nothing else had beene performed to him but that hee and his people should come forth with their goods saued: Hee did by a publike in∣strument,* 1.719 whilest hee stayed in the Campe, ratifie the league made in his name by the Pope and the Venetians.

The losse of the Castle of Milan, albeit that it was irke-some to them and of great importance for their enterprize, did not for all that drowne their hope of taking the Citty, the which they knew to bee badly prouided of all things, and that there was not within it suffitient number of men for [ 50] the defence thereof, in regard of the bignesse of it, and the great number of assaillants, diuers other Swisses beeing come to the Campe, besides foure thousand which were dayly expected, paide by the King, whereby they hoped

that it would shortly be reduced vnder the power of the Confederates either by force or by a seege.

Whilest they expected these supplies the Duke of Vrbin had resolued to send part of his forces to Cremona, to attempt the taking of the Citty, which was an enterprize very pleasing to the confederats, and cheefely to the Pope. But they were to delay the execution of that deseigne, for feare lest the Imperialls making a salley, as it was reported they would doe, should come and assaile the Campe. Neuer-the-lesse at the last Malatesta Baillone went thither, but with lesse forces then was at the first determined, by reason of the afore said feare, who being come before Cremona, found the Citty to bee fortified with a [ 10] * 1.720 double trench, and well furnished with defendants, hee neuer-the-lesse assailed it diuers times, but in vaine: whereof the Duke of Vrbin being aduertized knowing that it was an hard matter to take it with so few forces, and on the other side how greatly it would diminish the reputation of the league, if they should giue ouer that enterprize, it was resolued to send thither the Prouidator Pesare, Camillo Vrsino, and Antonio Castello, with store of foote-men, and within a while after,* 1.721 new supplies of a thousand Italian foote men were sent thither with a thousand Swisses. But for all that the businesse going neuer the more forward, the Duke of Vrbin resolued to goe thither in person, albeit it was greatly to the preiudice of [ 20] the enterprize of Milan, who drawing forth of the army which lay before Milan, in a manner all the Venetian foote-men, hee left part of the men at armes there with all the Churches Companies, and the Swisses who were arriued to the number of thirteene thousand, and went before Cremona, making his ac∣count to haue it, not by the onely force of batteries and assaults, because that the enemies rampiers were two strong, but by seeking with great num∣bers of Pioners to approach neere to their trenches and bastions, and to be∣come Maisters thereof, rather by the force of the pike-ax then by armes: but all this being not sufficient to take it, he proceeded to the battery and assaults, and* 1.722 at the last, those within it being reduced to such extreames, as a trompet being sent to summon the Citty to yeeld, there came forth two Captaines, the one [ 30] a Lancequenet, and the other a Spaniard, with Guido Vaina who capitulated: That if they were not releeued by the moneths end, they would come forth of Cremona the which they did, the time prefixed beeing expired: Whereof the Duke of Vrbin did forth-with aduertize the Senate, and the Citty was deli∣uered to Francis Sforza.

These newes were very pleasing to the Senate, who vnderstanding that Sforza made account to reside there, sent thither the Secretary Lodouico Sabadino, to* 1.723 remaine there with him in the name of the Signory.

But in the meane time their hapned a great disorder at Rome to the cofede∣rates great preiudice, who after the conquest of Cremona hoped to preuaile [ 40] in the enterprise of Genoa, and to bee able (according to the proiects former∣lie made) to encampe in two seuerall places before Milan. For the Colonnesi hauing assembled sixe hundred horse, and fiue thousand foot, marched with greate speed towards the Citty of Rome, where no man thinking of their comming, they entred by night, and seazed vpon three gates; then running vp and downe the Citty, they sackt diuers Prelats houses, the Pallace and Church of Saint Peter, without any respect to the Maiesty of Relligion, estee∣ming sacred matters lesse then Turkes would haue done, so as the Pope could hardly retire, with some Cardinalls and others whome hee most trusted into the Castle Saint Angelo, the Colonnesi hauing determined to take him prisoner; [ 50] who without any long stay did sodainely leaue the Citty; the Cardinall Colonna hauing first of all attempted in vaine to cause the people to rise in his behalfe▪ They carried away with them in gould, and siluer, and other commodities more then three hundred thousand crownes.

The tumult being appeased which lasted not much aboue three howers: D. Hugo

after that he had taken assurance of the Pope went to the Castle to talk with him, where vsing termes beseeming a Conqueror, hee enforced him to grant a truce betwixt them, as well in his name as in that of the confederates and the Emperors for foure monethes, by meanes whereof the Pope promised speedily to cause his* 1.724 Army to repasse the Po, to call home his Galleis into the Churches territories, and to pardon the Colonessi, and all others that had any hand in that assault and tumult. That the Imperials and Colonesi with their Companies should depart from Rome, and foorth of the Churches state; and should retire themselues into the Kingdome of Naples.

This truce was for the time present willingly embraced by both sides: by the [ 10] Pope because the Castle was not well victualled: by D. Hugo (the Colonesi ne∣uerthelesse making instance to the contrary) because it seemed vnto him that he had done much for the Emperor, and because that all those, in a manner, with whom he had entred Rome being laden with spoile were slipt away into diuers places. The truce did interrupt all the deseignes of Lombardy, and the whole fruite of the victory of Cremona. But the Pope thinking afterwards more con∣siderately, and with a setled iudgement, vpon the agreement which he had made, and foreseeing into how many dangers he had throwne himselfe in time to come, the better to free himselfe from those perrils wherevnto he was subiect if he should obserue the Articles of the truce, wrote to his Nuncios to enquire of the [ 20] most Christian King and the Venetian Senate, whether he were bound to per∣forme that which he had beene enforced to promise to D. Hugo, or wholly to re∣iect it, and within a while after he sent the Lord of Liege into France for the same purpose; who at the same time was come to Rome.

The Pope knew very well that to obserue the truce, was nothing else but to* 1.725 giue the Emperor meanes and time to beginne afterwards a greater and fiercer warre, and to ouercome by that delay those difficulties wherewith he was pressed, assuring to himselfe in the end his states in Italy, to the great danger and hazard of the liberties of all the rest. But his immeasurable feare diuerted him from al [ 30] good councell, and hindred him from well discerning that truth▪ wherevppon the Generall of the Friers being come to Rome, by the Emperors commandement to treat of peace, he heard him attentiuely, and exhorted the Venetians to incline to an accord, saying, That since they were of necessity one day to lay downe armes and beeing then inuited to doe so, they ought not to contemne the occasion that was presented.

The Senate vpon this proposition assuted him that it had neuer desired warre,* 1.726 but had on the contrary by warre procured an assured peace, so that it might be treated and concluded by the most Christian King, because that doing other∣wise they should for euer alienate him from the affaires of Italy, and should lose [ 40] a most assured refuge in their necessities and occurrences: therefore they vsed meanes to induce the Pope to temporize, and to expect an answer from France, that nothing did presse him to precipitate his affaires, and to grant the Emperors demand on such vniust conditions, as to giue him a great somme of money, and besides, to consigne into his hands for the assurance of the treaty, Parma, Pla∣centia, and Ciuita-uechia, places most important of the Churches State: That he was to consider that the Emperors forces were not so great as they were repor∣ted, and that the greatest ayde that he had forth of Germany came from George Fr•…•…ndsperg, who at his owne charges had brought him an army, the which beeing not able to hold out long, would of necessity be shortly broken. [ 50]

That the Garrison of Milan, beeing not paid, refused to obey hir commanders and would be gone. On the contrary how that they expected Rance de Cera from France with a great somme of money, and that there was great hope that the King himselfe, who was come as farre as Lyons, would in person come into Italy:

That the enterprize of Genoa was set forward with good successe: in a word, that all things promised an happy issue.

The Pope being vrged by these remonstrances, and most of all (perhaps) by the wrongs which he had newly receiued, resolued to hold in suspence the practizes of that new truce, and to treat onely of an vniuersall peace, by the aduise and con∣sent of the most Christian King. The arriuall of the Lord Russell did much auaile the resolution, who beeing sent by the King of England to offer thirty thousand* 1.727 crownes to the Pope for the expence of the war, came at the same time to Rome, who did greatly solicite and exhort him to continue stead-fast in the league, or [ 10] else to labour to conclude an vniuersall peace betwixt the Princes of Christen∣dome, the which being approued by the Venetian Senate, they wrote to Nouagie∣ro their Ambassadour with the Emperour, that he should enterpose that treaty of peace, it being decreed that the agreement should bee treated and concluded in France, and should afterwards, for the Emperors honour and dignity, be ratified and confirmed by him in Spaine.

The chiefe pointes of the treaty were, That the children of the most Christian* 1.728 King should be set at liberty: that Lombardy should be left peaceable, and Fran∣cis Sforza restored to his State, and that the Emperour should pay the King of England that which he pretended to bee due vnto him: but difficulties dayly aris∣ing [ 20] vpon these articles, each of them prepared on a sodaine for warre. The Pope sent his troupes, which he had recalled from the campe of the league, before the townes which the Colonesi had vsurped vpon the Churches State.

The Emperour on the other side hastened the prouisions of the sea-army,* 1.729 which was reported to be of forty ships, and sixe thousand foot that were paied, who met at the port of Cartagena to goe to the reliefe of the city of Genoa: he solicited his brother the Archduke to leauy the greatest forces hee could in his owne country, and to send them into Italy: and had besides giuen charge to the Prince of Orange to goe thorow the Duke of Sauoys country with greater num∣bers of Lansequenets into the Dutchy of Milan. [ 30]

The confederates resoluing to stop the passage of these new supplies, made great prouisions both by sea and land. Diuers vessels were arriued for the most Christian King in Brettaine and at Marseilles, with diuers others else-where which had beene taken neere to Genoa; to resist the passage of the Spanish army they laboured to induce the Duke of Sauoy not to suffer the Imperials to passe thorow* 1.730 his territories: But that which they most feared was the Almaines who were re∣ported to be leauied by George Frondsperg, an old captaine, and much affected to the house of Austria, who assembled great numbers of souldiers, inciting them to enrole themselues in hope of booty; so that hauing receiued the garrison which was at Cremona, he had in all with him more then ten thousand foot. [ 40] * 1.731

The confederates, to stop these Lansequenets passage did first of all gaine the captaine of the castle of Mus by fiue thousand Ducats which were giuen him, the one halfe by the Pope and the other by the Venetians, as well to set at liberty the Ambassadors of the Signory, whom hee had surprized in their iourney towards France, as also to draw him to their party, wherevpon beside, they gaue him the command of foure hundred foot well paied, with a good pension for the guard of the Lake of Coma. The Venetians did likewise send for the same purpose Nicolao Sangotino their Secretary to the Marquis of Mantua to entreat him if the Al∣maines should passe the mounts, that he would not suffer them to passe tho∣row his State. But being aduertized that these Almaines had made prouision of artillery and munition at Trent, thinking that they would passe thorow the Vero∣nois, [ 50] they made a leauy of other foure thousand foot, and commanded certaine companies of men at armes and light horse to come from the campe. Then they appointed Augustine de Mulla for Prouidator Generall beyond the Riuer Mence, prouiding all matters to repulse them.

Now these Almaines tooke their way by the vale of Sabia very neere to Piol∣tella.* 1.732 By these meanes the Venetian captaines that were on the Veronois, did speedily send Camillo Vrsin to Sales, with the light-horse and certaine compa∣nies of the ablest footmen, the rest that stayed behinde were commanded to fol∣low them by crossing the Lake, which they being not able to doe, soone enough, by reason of a tempest that arose, was the cause that Vrsin came to late to meet with the enemies, who were already passed onwards on their way; yet neuerthe∣lesse h•…•…uing seized on the Pace of Corona, which is a very narrow place and strong by sytuation, he enforced the Almaines, who were already on their iour∣ney, going thither to take an other way thorow the tops of the mountaines, which [ 10] was very difficult and dangerous, by which, at the last they came to La Garda, and from thence to Chastillon: then within a while after they entred the Marquis of Mantua his State, leauing the way of Milan, contrary to the opinion of the con∣federates taking that of Placentia or Pauia.

They resolued to follow them and still to hold them in allarmes, the Marquis of Saluces, on the one side with great numbers of Swisses and Grisons, and the Duke of Vrbin on the other marching towards Soncina, skirmishing continually with the enemies rereward, to the great commendation of the captaines, and es∣pecially* 1.733 of Iohn de Medicis, who notwithstanding that all the Popes captains were departed, did neuerthelesse continue in the Kings pay, and retained a company of [ 20] men at armes in his name, who by his great courage and valor, was a merueilous terror to the enemies, and a great comfort to the confederates.

George Frondsperg hauing passed the Po without any let, and being irresolute* 1.734 what way to take, did hold the confederates in doubt, and especially the Pope, who fearing least the enemies might turne towards Bolognia and from thence into Tuscany, did earnestly entreate the Venetians to command their army to passe speedily ouer the Po, for to assure the Churches territories and those of the Florentines: but their owne State being not free from the same scare; The Se∣nate, in some sort to satisfie him, and yet not meaning to much to disfurnish [ 30] themselues, commanded Lodouico Pisani, who was in the Marquis of Salusses army, to gather together certaine foote-forces, to send them speedily for the guard of the Churches State: and Guicciardin making the same request, Baboni di Nal•…•…i was sent thither with a thousand foote: they did beside send word to their Generall, that when he should perceiue the daungers of the confederates to encrease, and those of the Venetians to lessen, not to make any difficulty to re∣leeue them, either with the whole body of the army, or with part thereof, as him∣selfe should iudge to be most necessary.

At the last it was concluded, for the present that the Marquis of Salusses alone* 1.735 should passe the Po with his owne troupes and three hundred light-horse of the [ 40] Venetians, with certaine peeces of ordnance, taken from forth their campe to a∣muze the enemies: But the Almaines hauing crossed the Riuer Nura, and that of Trebbia afterwards, without any let of their confederates were come and encam∣ped at Fiorenzolles, hoping quickly to ioyne with the forces of Milan: and the Imperiall captaines not being able to cause the other Almaines to march, because they wanted their pay, they presently dislodged, only with the Italian infantery, and certaine companies of light▪horse.

The Senate in the meane time, being wholly desirous to satisfie the Pope, com∣manded the Prouidator to draw a gallāt troupe of the best soldiers forth of the ar∣my, and to send them ouer the Po, to ioyne with the Marquis of Salusses: whereup∣on the Prouidator Vitturi, did sodainely depart with fiue thousand foot & certaine [ 50] companies of light-horse; the Duke of Vrbin being at the same time (to the Vene∣tians great griefe) gon to Mantua about certain particular affaires of his owne.

This marching of the enemies towards Florence, caused the cōfederats to feare, least the Florentines, being troubled with the danger that threatned them, should

come to an agreement with the Imperials, to the great hinderance and preiudice* 1.736 of the league: Vpon this doubt the Venetians did speedly send Marco Foscare their Ambassadour to Florence, to exhort them in the name of the Republike

not to separate themselues (by reason of that accident) from them, setting before them the great want of all necessaries that was in the Almaines campe, the weak∣nesse and distresse of the Imperials: and on the contrary the great forces of the confederates, and their desire to employ them all for them, and with them to run one selfe same fortune: and then, the hope of the happy successe of that warre, by reason of the aide which they dayly expected from France, and finally the great [ 10] preparations which were made to assaile the Imperials in sundry places: Hee wil∣led them to call to minde their ancient generosity, and in particular, sundry for∣tunate euents happened vnto them, being vnited with the Signory of Venice, how that the like might now befall them, hauing the selfe same constancy and magnanimity that they then had▪ that it was a thing most certain, that as their loue and affection towards the league did much encrease the reputation thereof, and did assure the confederates, euen so in like manner their disunion would greatly hinder and preiudice it. For, to yeeld for feare of an imaginary danger, was no∣thing else but to precipitate themselues into most certaine and pernitious mis∣chiefes, and by ruining themselues to draw forthwith by their downe-fall other∣men into the same precipice, or at least wise by their declyning to shake and put [ 20] in hazard the liberty of all Italy: wherevpon, for the great affection that the com∣mon-wealth did beare vnto them, and in regard of their common interest, the Se∣nate would not faile in any point of their duty.

The Florentines declared how pleasing his comming and remonstrance had* 1.737 beene vnto them, and sent Alessandro de Pacis their Ambassadour to Venice to giue thankes to the Senate, promising to continue steadfast to the league, and in particular to haue sound intelligence and corespondence with the Republike, per∣swading them to leauy sixe thousand foot more at their common charge, that they might with them resist the Duke of Bourbon with more assurance, who was reported to haue drawn forces from Milan, and with them to march into Tuscany. [ 30]

In the meane time the confederates nauall army did still continue neere to Ge∣noa, which being reduced to all extremity, diuers meanes were propounded to* 1.738 hinder the Spanish nauall army to the number of forty ships prepared at Car∣thagena, from comming to the reliefe thereof; and among others Nauarre was of opinion, to saile vnto the frontiers of Spaine, and to assaile the Emperours army which lay in an open hauen, and to burne it. This opinion was allowed by the Ve∣netian Prouidator, but Doria (al-be-it he likewise approued it) did neuerthelesse consider that the quallity of that country was very contrary to that proposition, and the dangers of the sea much greater, where they should not finde any place of retreate to shield themselues from tempests and stormes: and setting downe [ 40] sundry other difficulties, he made all the hearers to be irresolute, and himselfe con∣stant not to goe to Carthagena: wherevpon they determined to saile into Corsica or Sardinia, and nere to those Islands to waite for the Imperiall fleet, in∣tending if it came to put forth to sea and to fight with it; for the which purpose they concluded to send for some great ships from Marseilles, and to arme the Genoa ships which had beene taken at the beginning.

Whilest they dwelt on these resolute preparations, they discouered the Impe∣riall fleet fifteene miles off from land, consisting of sixe and thirty vessels of all sorts, sayling with a faire winde directly towards Genoa, which was de•…•…arted from Spaine sooner then was expected, wherein were Don Charles of Lanoy [ 50] viceroy of Naples, the captaine Alarcon, and Don Ferrant of Gonzaga. So soone as the Venetian Prouidator that lay at Porto-uennere to cause the vessels to bee armed, had notice of the enemies comming, he put to sea with sixteene gallies that he had ready, and gaue chase to the enemies vessels, but being o•…•…ertaken

with a contrary winde he was enforced to returne from whence he came, and the Spanish army in the meane time pursuing their iourney, drew still neerer to land, determining to enter into the hauen of Genoa, but at such time as it passed by Saint Florenzos Mount, it was descried by Nauarre, who lay at the foot of the hill with seuenteene gallies, who comming with them forthwith to sea, did with great courage giue in athwart the Imperiall army, and falling foule one of an other, they fought from morning till two houres within night, where the Imperials were* 1.739 so roughly handled by those of the league, and their whole fleete so torne by the artillery, as had not a tempest arose, which separated them, it was certainely thought, that it would haue beene wholy defeated. [ 10]

The confederates fleet retired to Portofin, staying the same night for the other gallies that lay at Portouennere: and whether they did come or not their resolu∣tion was by day breake to seeke the enemie. But so soone as it was day, albeit that they followed them as farre as Liuorne, yet they could not ouertake them, by reason that they were already to farre. The viceroy went on his way, but so beaten by the tempest, that his vessels were scattered, part of which where∣in Don Ferrant of Ganzaga was, were carried into Sicily, and afterwards came to Gayetta, where they landed the Lansequenets: and as for himselfe he arriued with the rest in the hauen of Saint Stephen, which belongeth to the Sienois: if* 1.740 Armiero the Prouidator who lay at Portouennere could haue come to the aide of [ 20] his fellowes, as he sought diuers times to doe, all the Spanish army had beene defeated, but hee could not come by reason of the tempest: yet neuerthelesse he was called home to Venice, by the councell of Tenne, to come and yeeld an ac∣count of his actions, and in particular for suffering victuals to enter into Genoa, and for that he did not goe with the army to Carthagena, and they sodainely sent Augustine de Mulla in his stead, who was Prouidator in Friul.

But Armiero hauing cleered himself of al those imputations was wholy quitted, and then they knew that the fault, why Genoa was not taken, did proceed from the not sending of suffitient troupes from the campe in Lombardy, which should neerely haue shut the City in by land: which the captaines of the gallies had of∣tentimes [ 30] craued.

Now the Pope, more then any else, was most troubled with the viceroys com∣ming* 1.741 into Italy, fearing least the aide which he had brought with him would ioyn it selfe with George Frondsperg: and therefore he sent the Archbishop of Ca∣pua vnto him to treat of agreement, and to propound in the meane time a suspen∣tion of armes: but the viceroy being desirous to treat on very hard conditions, the whole matter was broken off without any conclusion, the Pope hauing taken courage, for that his army was encreased in reputation and strength by the arriual of Rance de Cera, who beeing sent by the French King into Italy was come to Sa∣uona* 1.742 with the nauall army, and from thence went to ioyne with the Church-army [ 40] which lay not farre from Rome for the subuersion of Colonnesi.

The viceroy on the other side sought to enter into the Churches territories, to defend those of the Colonnesi, and to enforce the Pope to disioyne himselfe from the league, and to giue him a certaine summe of money for the payment of his ar∣my: wherevpon he set foreward and came with twelue thousand men before Frossolona, where he encamped, which is a towne very weake, and seated in the Champaine count•…•…y, the houses of particular persons seruing in stead of walles, within which neuerthelesse the captaines of the Church had left a strong Garri∣son to keepe him from any sure footing in that country. At his first comming* 1.743 he beganne to batter the towne, not giuing any assault to it afterwards. But the [ 50] arriuall of Rance de Cera and Alessandr•…•… Vitelli with the Churches forces, which were much encreased by the Popes dilligence, who had augmented his campe, with great numbers of foot-men paied and commanded for the reliefe of that place, was the cause that after certaine skirmishes on either side, the viceroy

raised his campe two houres before day, and set fire to certaine munitions which were left, leauing there behind him some bullets for great ordnance, and retired to Cesenna, and from thence to Cepparane.

This fortunate successe encouraged the Pope, and at the entreaty of the confe∣derates Ambassadors, whom he could not otherwise satisfie, he resolued to exe∣cute the enterprize of the Kingdome of Naples, notwithstanding that it was in the middest of winter, being the month of Ianuary in the yeere 1527. The Venetians for this purpose commanded Augustine de Mulla their Prouidator in the nauall army to bring it to Ciuitauecchia, and ioyning there with the Popes gallies, to [ 10] saile together towards Naples. But the French army tarrying to long, that of the Venetians sailed towards Terracina to take in three thousand foot, conducted by Horatio Baillon, who was freed by the Pope from his imprisonment wherein Pope Leo had confined him.

At the same time the Earle of Vaudemont came from France to make one in* 1.744 the enterprize of Naples, which they resolued to enuade by sea and land, who de∣termining to imbarke himselfe in the Venetian gallies, they re-enforced their ar∣my with two thousand foot.

Rance de Cera in an other place, against the Popes will, entred into Abruzzo* 1.745 with sixe thousand men, where by the meanes of the Earle of Montorias chil∣dren, [ 20] he did hope with ease to take Aquila, the which he forthwith did, by reason that Ascanio Colonna fled from thence so soone as he had intelligence of their ar∣riuall. Doria likewise sailed before with his gallies and went and assailed Pozzo∣la, a place very important for the confederates, in regard of the commodiousnesse of the hauen of Baja: but being at his first arriuall repulsed by the artillery, he dis∣lodged* 1.746 from thence without assailing it; afterwards other gallies of the league arriuing, they resolued to assaile the sea Burrow of Stabia, where Diomede Caraffa lay with fiue hundred footmen, the which was taken by assault on the third day towards the side of the hill, and the day after the castle yeelded.* 1.747

The tenth day the souldiers tooke the Greeke tower and Surrenta by force, [ 30] & diuers other places on the coast, did within a while after yeeld on composition. They had before then taken certaine ships laden with corne which were going to Naples where victuals were very scarce.

Now the army of the league finding no resistance at sea it came so neere to the Peere of Naples, as the castle and the gallies plaied vpon it with their shot. It was* 1.748 then consulted on, whether it were necessary to beseege the city, some saying, that by the taking thereof, the warre would be ended, they hauing taken from the ene∣mies all meanes to come by money for the entertainement of their army: as also, because their greatest hope of being able to keepe that State, consisted in the conseruation of that city, the which being lost they would forth-with leaue the Kingdome, and retire to some other place. Diuers reasons might incite them [ 40] to that seege. First of all, the small numbers of souldiers which were in the city, and yet that small number not well disposed to put themselues forward to dan∣gers for the maintenance of the insolent Dominion of the Spaniards. Second∣ly the Nobility stood badly affected to the Spaniards, who for feare of loosing their goods durst not shew their discontent: and last of all the Viceroys absence, who was farre from thence, and the small expectation which the Spaniards had of any speedy releefe from their fellowes.

Others who weare of a contrary opinion, thought it best to •…•…arry for Rance de Cera, the better to shut in that city with greater forces, on which they knew the whole end and successe of the warre depended, to the end to proceed therein [ 50] more considerately and with greater hope; the delaying of a small time could not but prooue very commodious to them, because they certainely knew that there was want of bread in the city, and if succors did enter into it, the scarcity would thereby be the more augmented, and would be cause of the peoples disordered

rising, which would open a more easie passage to their victory: and that therefore it behoued them in wayting for such an occasion to saile towards Salerno, to seize on that city and others neere adioyning, whereby Naples it selfe would at last be brought vnder their obedience.

But these reasons being not much approued nor thought worthy to be equa∣led* 1.749 with the profit which was to bee hoped for by the then taking of that City, they resolued to send an Herald to summon those within it to yeeld the city to the consederates with the promises and threatnings determined in the councell.

Don Hugo of Moncada, who commanded there, and held the people in awe, [ 10] determining to defend himselfe, so soone as he had notice that the army of the* 1.750 league was within foure miles of the City tooke two thousand fiue hundred foote, as well of the Garrison as of the people, and three hundred horse, and with them marched forth of the City, to shew that he wanted no courage to frus∣trate the enemies deseignes.

Those of the league •…•…ad already landed diuers souldiers vnder the command of the Earle of Va•…•…demont and Horatio Baillone, who marching towards the City to make discouery, met with Don Hugo his troupes, and skirmishing together, they did put them to flight in such disorder as they left certaine field-peeces be∣hind them, which Moncada, hauing made a stand with his Spaniards, recouered, [ 20] and by reason thereof hauing delaied his retreat, he was so amazed as he had not the leisure at his entry to plucke vp the draw-bridge and to shut the gate: the which standing open was on a sodaine seized by Baillone who followed him at the heeles hauing no great numbers of souldiers with him, and considering that if hee should enter he could not keepe them from the spoile, which would cause them all to be cut in peeces, he retired to the gallies which were with in a mile off the City.

This exploit did so affright the Neapolitains, as they presently sent to entreat the captaines of the army not to batter the city, nor to spoile the country neere [ 30] adioyning: that they for their parts were ready to yeeld. But they could not m•…•…ke vse of this fauour of fortune: because that D. Hugo hauing intelligence of the small number of the army, shewed himselfe resolute to defend the City: so as the army for want of men remained idle, wayting for supplies out of France which were very slow in comming, and by their delay did snatch the victory forth of* 1.751 their hands: so as in the meane time of this expectation infinite disorders arose in the Churches army, for money and victuals fayling, therewithal martiall disci∣pline was no more obserued, the souldiers did no more obey their captaines, eue∣ry one disbanded, they contemned the commandements of the Legate Aposto∣like,* 1.752 and all the interest of the league and the Pope: in such sort as diuers of the [ 40] best aduised and most respected captaines, forsaking the pay of the confederates, went and serued the Imperials.

For these causes the Pope continuing resolute in his former determination of agreement, sought all meanes to obtaine it, saying, That since he must needs serue, he had rather to do it to the Emperour, then still to depend on the vnruly wils of captaines, and namely of the basest souldiers.

Now in this meane time, the Duke of Bourbons determination to march in∣to the field, and to come and ioyne with the Lansequenets of George Frondsperg,* 1.753 did greatly trouble the Pope, and altered the confederates deseignes: for al∣be-it he found himselfe to be without money, munition, pioners, and vnfurni∣shed of all meanes to get victuals, hee resolued neuerthelesse to passe on, thorow [ 50] the middest of so many enemies townes, and against such enemies as were farre greater in number then himselfe. Bourbon then beeing thus resolued, hauing drawne away the Garrison from Milan, and from other places, went with his troupes and crossed the Trebia, vniting himselfe with the Lansequenets that

were newly arriued, who tarried for him on the farther side of the Riuer, vncertaine as yet what course to take, al-be-it the common report was, that at his departure from Milan, hee had promised to his souldiers the sacke of Rome and of the greatest part of Italy, the like also did captaine George to his Lanse∣quenets, who vpon that hope had endured very many miseries since their departure from Germany, for they had receiued but one onely Ducat for a man, and afterwardes two or three Ducats for the whole time they had beene in Italy.

The Pope, in regard hereof, being greatly mooued, as well in particular for him selfe as for the Florentines, did renue his practizes of agreement with the vice∣roy, [ 10] * 1.754 al be-it he had promised before not to conclude any thing without the con∣sent of the French King and the Venetians. That which mooued him therevn∣to was his owne feare, and the continuall exhortations of the Generall of the Friers, of whom hee made great account, who beeing newlie returned from the Emperours Court, assured the Pope of the Emperours affection towards his Holinesse, and of his great inclination to peace; wherevpon, vsing this Gene∣rall in that treaty with the viceroy, hee continued in such sort as he seemed whol∣ly to bee confirmed by that agreement, not making any warlike prouisions for* 1.755 the safety of his owne person, saying, That as the vniuersall Father and Pastor, knowing the Emperour to bee greatly desirous of peace, hee ought not [ 20] for to shew himselfe lesse affected therevnto, and for the effecting thereof, freely to imploy all his meanes that hee could, without any sinister suspition, that all Christendome might enioy the peace and tranquillity which it so much desired.

Bourbon in the meane time beeing come into the Bolognia territory, spoy∣led all places round about, to the end that the Florentines, fearing the like dam∣mage, should compound with him, and contribute a certaine summe of money for the payment of his army, and thereby to auoide the ruine of their pallaces and goodly houses, which lie neere to their city.

These considerations did in such sort mooue the Pope, as the Lord of Langi [ 30] beeing come forth of France to perswade him not to make any agreement with the Emperour, and the rather to induce him therevnto, had brought him twen∣ty thousand Ducats, with promise of a greater summe, so soone as Caesar Fiera∣mosca,* 1.756 sent by the viceroy, had told him that his Master was satisfied with the truce for eight monthes, propounded by his Holinesse, he on a sodaine without any regard to the promises and aide of the French King, made an accord with the viceroy, saying, That time might make his condition worse, if the Vice∣roy should but know what disorder was in the army of the league: and that the daunger of the Realme of Naples was nothing in comparison of that of Tusca∣ny and Rome. [ 40]

Therefore passing on farther, for the better assurance of That treaty, hee pro∣cured that the Viceroy should come in person to Rome, whilest the Cardinall Triuulcio, who was Legate in the Churches army should goe to Naples to assure the Viceroy from him; who comming afterwards to Rome was honourably en∣tertained there, and ra•…•…ified the suspention of armes for eight monthes, accor∣ding as it had beene agreed vpon by Fieramosca, promising to cause Bourbon to withdrawe his army forth of the Churches and Florentines State.

The Pope being to credulous, thought his affaires by this meanes to bee well assured, hauing promised by the agreement to giue threescore thousand Ducats for the payment of the army, and to pardon the Colonnesi, and particularly Car∣dinall [ 50] Pompe•…•…, restoring him to the Cardinalship whereof hee had depriued him. But the greatest errour hee committed was, for that thorow badde* 1.757 councell hee had on a sodaine with-drawne his whole army from forth the con∣fines of the Realme of Naples, and his nauall army to Ciuitauecchia, and

had wholly disarmed himselfe, retayning for the garde and safety of his owne person but an hundred light horse, and certaine companies of black bands which had belonged to the deceased Iohn de Medicis, notwithstanding that the Colonnesi were in armes, and committed soundry insolencies.

The Venetian Senate being aduertized of this agreement, would not faile to aduise the Pope not to trust ouermuch to the viceroy: for al-be-it that hee had proceeded sincerely therein, it was neuerthelesse to be feared that Bourbon, who had the like authority from the Emperour as had the viceroy, beeing displeased that the accord was made without his consent, would not ra•…•…ifie it: Then they declared vnto him what inconuenience and disorder his so soone disarming did [ 10] bring with it, seeing that the Siennois and Colonnesi, with whom hee had not yet fullie ended, were still in armes.

But the Pope contemning all these reasons and remayning obstinate in his resolution did verifie the common saying, That good and whole some councell gi∣uen by an interressed and suspected person, causeth rather a precipitate downefall. For the Pope thinking that the Venetians spake for their owne particular inte∣rest, because hee had forsaken them, would not harcken vnto them: wherevp∣on, Bourbon within a while after writing to Rome, that hee could no longer hold backe the souldiers for want of pay from comming to beseege it, he then per∣ceiuing that to bee very true which they had told him: al-be-it that at the [ 20] first hee thought that hee had said so onely but for to draw some greater summes of money from him, or else in a brauado, and that hee did not meane to breake the truce.

Also hee was wont to say afterward, that though hee should haue feared a∣ny sinister accident, yet neuerthelesse hee would not haue changed his opi∣nion, because hee would not haue the world to knowe that hee had beene de∣ceiued by trusting to any one. Now hee imagining that the same would not come to passe which did happen, had already appointed Matheo Guilberto his Datary to goe as Legate into Spaine, to treat particularly there on the conditi∣ons [ 30] of peace.

The Venetians beeing aduertized of the Popes resolution did write to the Duke of Vrbin that hee should assemble his troupes, and ioyne them with those of the Marquis of Salusses that were on the Bolognois: They afterwards sent to Sebastian Iustinia•…•… their Ambassadour with the Christian King, willing him* 1.758 to assure his Maiesty, that al▪be-it the Pope had forsaken them that they would neuer depart from his friendship, and that if hee thought good to accept of the truce, they would likewise accept of it, and not otherwise. The Pope in the treaty of the accord which the Viceroy had reserued place for the Venetians to enter into it, because they had not shewed themselues much contrary to the [ 40] truce, the better to please him, who beeing vnited with the most Christian King were very well contented not for to breake off wholly with him, hoping still to draw him to their party: for they made more account of the friendship of France then of all the rest: wherevpon perceiuing that the King did not willingly giue eare to this truce, they would no more motion it.

But concerning his proposition to them to renue the warre in the Realme* 1.759 of Naples, they did very much commend the reprizall of armes but not to goe into that Kingdome, saying, That they had there lost the good will of the people, and their reputation, by yeelding vp, thorow the Popes separa∣ting himselfe from them, all the townes which they had there taken: but that the surest and proffitablest way for the present, was to prepare for the defense [ 50] and conseruation of that which they possessed in Lombardy, if the accord should happen to bee made. An if it should fall out otherwise, it should bee for the profit of the league to haue the Cities of the Churches state and the Floren∣tines at their deuotion.

Now the Imperiall army notwithstanding the agreement conceiued at Rome betwixt the Pope and the viceroy, went still forward, although that Caesar Fiera∣mosca had signified vnto them the agreement to cause them to returne backe, For the Duke of Bourbon at the same time, either because hee would not obey, or else it beeing not in his power to doe it, caused his army to march towards* 1.760 Romagnia, where he beseeged Cottignola, the which hee tooke by composition, then marching towards Furli, hee came and lodged at Villafranca fiue miles off, and taking the way of Meldola, he shewed that his meaning was to passe Tuscany by the Val di bagna: wherevnto he was much solicited by the Sienois who offred him great store of victuals, and pioners. [ 10]

The Venetians hauing notice of the enemies determination sent word to the Duke of Vrbin, that leauing strong Garrisons in the territories belonging to their State, hee should passe on with the resid•…•…e of the army to assure the lands of the Church and the Florentines, and to oppose himselfe against the Imperials de∣seignes. The Duke of Vrbi•…•… according to this direction being come with part of the army neere to Bolognia, and the Marquis of Salusses likewise, beeing lodg∣ed in sundry places, hee passed on towardes Imola, and encamped betwixt Ra∣uenna, and Faenza, at the same time as the enemy departed from Cottignola: It was there a long time debated amongst the captaines of the league what [ 20] * 1.761 course to obserue in that warre: and in the end it was concluded to haue two seuerall campes, the better and with more ease to cut off all victuals from the e∣nemies, to what place soeuer they should march. The Pope taxing this coun∣cell did neuerthelesse make vse of it, vnder collour of his rash agreement, saying, That the slow proceeding of those of the league for the preseruation of that which beelonged vnto him had enforced him for to take an other course for his safety.

Now the Pope, who contrary to all mens opinions had still thought himselfe* 1.762 safe enough, beeing then strangely daunted, by this new aduertizement, called before him all the Ambassadours of the Confederate Princes which were in his Court, and after hee had declared to them on the one side, how that the zeale to [ 30] the publike good, but chiefly necessity had enforced him to accept the truce, and on the other, the malicious deceit of the Imperialls towardes him did earnest∣ly entreat them to make intercession for him to their Princes, that they would not forsake him, nor the Florentines likewise in so manifest daunger, to the great hurt and preiudice of the common cause, and hee did particularly entreat Domi∣nico Veniero Ambassadour at Rome for the Signory of Venice, that hee would so deale with the Senate, as that they should commaund the Duke of Vrbin to passe the Appenine hils with his army, promising to renue the league and sincere∣ly to obserue it.

The Senate vpon this proposition, al-be-it they iudged it to bee a very dange∣rous [ 40] matter, to send their troupes so farre off from their owne State, and to ad∣uenture them in the craggy mountaines, and that besides, the Pope had not gi∣uen them any cause to take care for his affaires, in regard hee had forsaken them, continuing neuerthelesse in their former resolution, commanded the Duke of Vrbin and Lodouico Pisani, who was come to the army as new Prouidator to passe the mountes if neede should require: wherevpon so soone as the Imperi∣all* 1.763 army had passed the mounts, that of the Confederates followed it: so as almost at one time the two armies were in Tuscany, the Duke of Bourbon beeing then lodged neere to Arezzo, and the Confederates army at Barberina, the City of Florence remayning in a manner in the middest betwixt these two [ 50] armies.

This was the cause of great troubles in the Citty, some crauing a popular gouernment, and others would haue that of a few priuate persons, wherevpon the greatnesse of those of Medicis came to controuersie, and the popular

faction would a•…•… least haue preuailed, those of Medicis beeing driuen from the publike gouernment; and Hippolito and Alessandro of Medicis the Popes Ne∣phewes being declared enemies to their country, when as the Duke of Vrbin ar∣riued opportunely at Florence during these stirs, who so soone as he perceiued the Duke of Bourbon to direct his course towards Tuscany, taking with him fourescore gentlemen forth of the army, with the Prouidator Pisani and Frederic•…•… Bozzola, went speedily to Florence to continue the Florentines in their fidelity towards the league.

He by his arriuall did frustrate the deseignes of the contrary faction which was affrighted to see the army so neere, hauing no assurance of any reliefe from else∣where, [ 10] so as he reduced matters to their former state without any effusion of bloud for that time: and delt besides in such sort, as the Florentines should be vn∣der the protection of the league, and should maintaine, at their owne charge in the confederates ca•…•…pe, two hundred and fifty men at armes, and fiue thousand foot, or a greater number if the Pope should so appoint it.

Whilest these things were done in Florence, the other confederates renued the league at Rome, by which they promised the Venetians to contribute towards the expence of their army, prouided that it did not depart fo•…•…th of Tuscany or the Churches State without the Popes permission, and that it would be one of the first in the enterprize of Naples. These conditions seeming to hard to the Senate, [ 20] were not accepted; Dominico Veni•…•…ro their Ambassador, for being to forward in his offers was called home to Venice, and as one guilty for going beyond his com∣mission* 1.764 was deliuered ouer into the hands of the Auogario to haue his processe made, and Francisco Pesare was sent Ambassador in his stead.

The Duke of Bourbon either for that hee despaired of being able to make any attempt vpon Florence, by reason that all the confederates forces were not farre from thence, or for that he was euer d•…•…sirous to goe to Rome, determined to* 1.765 march thither, being partly prouoked, by the negligence and small care that they had in Rome to prouide for the daungers which threatned it: because that the Pope relying in vaine on the people, and on a great number of husbandmen that [ 30] were retired thither, of whom more then fiue thousand were armed, had not ta∣ken care to leauy new forces, and least of all to prouide for those that he already had: namely, that hauing giuen charge to Philippin Doria to leauy three thou∣sand foot-men, he hauing raised one thousand and brought them to Ciuitauec∣chia, his Holinesse did not vouchsafe to send for them to come to Rome for the gard of the City: and caused his Datary to write to Count Guy of Rangon, who lay at Ottriccoli with great numbers of foot not to come to Rome, vnlesse hee should bee expresly commanded by him so to doe, notwithstanding that the Earle was aduertized from the Duke of Vrbin, that the Duke of Bourbon march∣ed thitherwards, and that he might haue come thither in time: but hee durst not [ 40] disobey the Popes commandement, so that diuers did blame him for it, saying, that in such a case he should haue obeyed the Duke of Vrbin, as captaine Gene∣rall of the league.

The Duke of Bourbon then, departing forth of the country of Arezzo with∣out* 1.766 artillery or baggage, and marching with incredible speed, not being hindred by the raine which at that season was very great, nor yet by want of victuals, he came neere to Rome before such time as the Pope had scarcely any aduertize∣ment of his comming, and hee found no resistance neither at Viterbo, whether the Pope had not sent forces in time, nor yet in any other place, yet neuerthe∣lesse, before hee would come nere to the walles, hee sent to the Pope to demaund [ 50] passage for his army into the Kingdome of Naples, (as hee said) beeing mooued therevnto by reason of the small store of victuals which hee had, and fearing least by his long tarrying that hee might bee surprized by the ar∣my of the league who very neerely pursued him, or as others thought, by a

martiall arrogancy, to haue some collour for that which he had in his minde de∣termined to doe.

The Pope would not regard his demands, nor yet heare them, as well because hee knew already the inward policies of the enemy, as for the great trust which he reposed in the people of Rome, and in the leagues nauall army of sixe and twenty gallies that lay at Ciuitauecchia with certaine companies of foot-men: As also for that Rance de Cera (vnto whom the Pope gaue the chiefe defense of the City of Rome) had rampired the suburbes, in the defense whereof hee so much trusted, that al-be-it they were in all mens iudgements very weake, hee would not permit the bridges vpon Tiber to be cut for the safety of Rome, if the [ 10] suburbes and part of the City beyond Tiber could not be defended: and had be∣sides, made such bad prouision of all necessaries, as it encouraged the enemies to approach the walles, and to come to the assault with ladders.

The defendants did not descry the enemies till it was almost to late, by reason* 1.767 of a thick mist which sodainely arose, wherewith the enemies army was coue∣red, vntill it came to the very place where they gaue the assault, where Antonio de Mo•…•…tfalcone was in gard with an hundred souldiers, vnto whose rescue diuers of the armed people came running, who for a certaine space susteined the ene∣mies attempts. But the Imperials continuing the assault very fiercely, these new vnexperienced souldiers perceiuing daunger hourely to encrease forsooke [ 20] the defense, and committed themselues to flight.

The Duke of Bourbon at the beginning of their assault marching formost, went before all the companies, where being shot into the body by an Harque∣buze,* 1.768 he fell downe dead to the ground. The Prince of Orange, being very neere him when he fell, caused him forthwith to be couered with a cloake, to the end the souldiers might not be daunted by the death of their Generall, and then he did hotly purfue the victory.

The Pope, who in the palace of the Vatican attended what would bee the e∣uent* 1.769 thereof, hearing that the enemies had entred, did forth-with flie with di∣uers Cardinals and other Prelats to the castle Saint Angelo. The Lords [ 30] Rance de Cera and Langey, hauing laboured in vaine to mooue the people to take armes for their owne defense, and had sought valiantly with those few forces they could gather together and with them a long time kept the castle bridge, were at last enforced to retire. The City beeing thus abandoned, and all the people in confusion and flight, the enemies on all sides entred it, and became Masters thereof without any difficulty. Philippin Doria and Count Guy, so soone as they perceiued the Duke of Bourbon to march towards Rome, did on a sodaine without wayting for any other commandement set forwards to rescue the Pope with the forces of Ciuitauecchia and Oruietta: but the Duke of Bourbon by his speed hauing preuented them, and shut vp all the [ 40] passages by which they were to follow him, did enforce them to returne from whence they came.

Now the Duke of Vrbin hauing set forward to follow the enemies, but ve∣ry slowly, by reason of the hindrances of his campe, did at last with the whole army come as farre as Viterbo, who finding all the country to be spoiled by the enemies, hee was enforced by want of victuals to tarry there, his army bee∣ing by sundry accidents much diminished, hauing in all but seuen thousand men, in stead of thirty thousand appointed by the confederates. The army, lodging in that place, the light horse and foot-men did oftentimes scoure the whole Country, where meeting with the Imperiall souldiers, that were [ 50] laden with great spoile and disbanded comming from Rome, they striped them of all they had.

Besides that, at the taking of the City all manner of crueltie was vsed:

faction would at least haue preuailed, those of Medicis beeing driuen from the publike gouernment, and Hippolito and Alessandro of Medicis the Popes Ne∣phewes being declared enemies to their country, when as the Duke of Vrbin ar∣riued opportunely at Florence during these stirs, who so soone as he perceiued the Duke of Bourbon to direct his course towards Tuscany, taking with him fourescore gentlemen forth of the army, with the Prouidator Pisani and Frederic•…•… Bozzola, went speedily to Florence to continue the Florentines in their fidelity towards the league.

He by his arriuall did srustrate the deseignes of the contrary faction which was affrighted to see the army so neere, hauing no assurance of any reliefe from else∣where, [ 10] so as he reduced matters to their sormer state without any effusion of bloud for that time: and delt besides in such sor•…•…, as the Florentines should be vn∣der the protection of the league, and should maintaine, at their owne charge in the confederates campe, two hundred and fifty men at armes, and fiue thousand foot, or a greater number if the Pope should so appoint it.

Whilest these things were done in Florence, the other confederates renued the league at Rome, by which they promised the Venetians to contribute towards the expence of their army, prouided that it did not depart forth of Tuscany or the Churches State without the Popes permission, and that it would be one of the first in the enterprize of Naples. These conditions seeming to hard to the Senate, [ 20] were not accepted; Dominico Veniero their Ambassador, for being to forward in his offers was called home to Venice, and as one guilty for going beyond his com∣mission* 1.770 was deliuered ouer into the hands of the Auogario to haue his processe made, and Francisco Pesare was sent Ambassador in his stead.

The Duke of Bourbon either for that hee despaired of being able to make any attempt vpon Florence, by reason that all the confederates forces were not farre from thence, or for that he was euer d•…•…sirous to goe to Rome, determined to* 1.771 march thither, being partly prouoked, by the negligence and small care that they had in Rome to prouide for the daungers which threatned it: because that the Pope relying in vaine on the people, and on a great number of husbandmen that [ 30] were retired thither, of whom more then fiue thousand were armed, had not ta∣ken care to leauy new forces, and least of all to prouide for those that he already had: namely, that hauing giuen charge to Philippin Doria to leauy three thou∣sand foot-men, he hauing raised one thousand and brought them to Ciuitauec∣chia, his Holinesse did not vouchsafe to send for them to come to Rome for the gard of the City: and caused his Datary to write to Count Guy of Rangon, who lay at Ottriccoli with great numbers of foot not to come to Rome, vnlesse hee should bee expresly commanded by him so to doe, notwithstanding that the Earle was aduertized from the Duke of Vrbin, that the Duke of Bourbon march∣ed thitherwards, and that he might haue come thither in time: but hee durst not [ 40] disobey the Popes commandement, so that diuers did blame him for it, saying, that in such a case he should haue obeyed the Duke of Vrbin, as captaine Gene∣rall of the league.

The Duke of Bourbon then, departing forth of the country of Arezzo with∣out* 1.772 artillery or baggage, and marching with incredible speed, not being hindred by the raine which at that season was very great, no•…•… yet by want of victuals, he came neere to Rome before such time as the Pope had scarcely any aduertize∣ment of his comming, and hee found no resistance neither at Viterbo, whether the Pope had not sent forces in time, nor yet in any other place, yet neuerthe∣lesse, before hee would come nere to the walles, hee sent to the Pope to demaund [ 50] passage for his army into the Kingdome of Naples, (as hee said) beeing mooued therevnto by reason of the small store of victuals which hee had, and fearing least by his long tarrying that hee might bee surprized by the ar∣my of the league who very neerely pursued him, or as others thought, by a

martiall arrogancy, to haue some collour for that which he had in his minde de∣termined to doe.

The Pope would not regard his demands, nor yet heare them, as well because hee knew already the inward policies of the enemy, as for the great trust which he reposed in the people of Rome, and in the leagues nauall army of sixe and twenty gallies that lay at Ciuitauecchia with certaine companies of foot-men: As also for that Rance de Cera (vnto whom the Pope gaue the chiefe defense of the City of Rome) had rampired the suburbes, in the defense whereof hee so much trusted, that al-be-it they were in all mens iudgements very weake, hee would not permit the bridges vpon Tiber to be cut for the safety of Rome, if the [ 10] suburbes and part of the City beyond Tiber could not be defended: and had be∣sides, made such bad prouision of all necessaries, as it encouraged the enemies to approach the walles, and to come to the assault with ladders.

The defendants did not descry the enemies till it was almost to late, by reason* 1.773 of a thick mist which sodainely arose, wherewith the enemies army was coue∣red, vntill it came to the very place where they gaue the assault, where Antonio de Montfalcone was in gard with an hundred souldiers, vnto whose rescue diuers of the armed people came running, who for a certaine space susteined the ene∣mies attempts. But the Imperials continuing the assault very fiercely, these new vnexperienced souldiers perceiuing daunger hourely to encrease forsooke [ 20] the defense, and committed themselues to flight.

The Duke of Bourbon at the beginning of their assault marching formost, went before all the companies, where being shot into the body by an Harque∣buze,* 1.774 he fell downe dead to the ground. The Prince of Orange, being very neere him when he fell, caused him forthwith to be couered with a cloake, to the end the souldiers might not be daunted by the death of their Generall, and then he did hotly pursue the victory.

The Pope, who in the palace of the Vatican attended what would bee the e∣uent* 1.775 thereof, hearing that the enemies had entred, did forth-with flie with di∣uers Cardinals and other Prelats to the castle Saint Angelo. The Lords [ 30] Rance de Cera and Langey, hauing laboured in vaine to mooue the people to take armes for their owne defense, and had sought valiantly with those few forces they could gather together and with them a long time kept the castle bridge, were at last enforced to retire. The City beeing thus abandoned, and all the people in confusion and flight, the enemies on all sides entredit, and became Masters thereof without any difficulty. Philippin Doria and Count Guy, so soone as they perceiued the Duke of Bourbon to march towards Rome, did on a sodaine without wayting for any other commandement set forwards to rescue the Pope with the forces of Ciuitauecchia and Oruietta: but the Duke of Bourbon by his speed hauing preuented them, and shut vp all the [ 40] passages by which they were to follow him, did enforce them to returne from whence they came.

Now the Duke of Vrbin hauing set forward to follow the enemies, but ve∣ry slowly, by reason of the hindrances of his campe, did at last with the whole army come as farre as Viterbo, who finding all the country to be spoiled by the enemies, hee was enforced by want of victuals to tarry there, his army bee∣ing by sundry accidents much diminished, hauing in all but seuen thousand men, in stead of thirty thousand appointed by the confederates. The army, lodging in that place, the light horse and foot-men did oftentimes scoure the whole Country, where meeting with the Imperiall souldiers, that were [ 50] laden with great spoile and disbanded comming from Rome, they striped them of all they had.

Besides that, at the taking of the City all manner of crueltie was vsed:

euery where infinite complaints were heard of those who were inhumanely tor∣mented, partly to enforce them to pay their ransom, and partly to bewray the wealth that they had hidden. The cries and pittifull lamentations were heard of Roman dames, and Nunnes, who the souldiers lead away in troupes to satisfie* 1.776 their Luxury. All holy things, the Sacraments and Relikes of Saints, where-with the Churches were stored, being despoiled of their ornaments, were euery where trodden vnder foot; wherevnto were added infinite vilanies of the barbarous Lansequenets. The sacke and pillage lasted many monthes, which according to the common report, as well in ready money, gold, siluer, and iewels, amounted to more then a Million of Ducats, and the ran∣somes [ 10] that were paied, did rise to a farre greater summe.

The end of the sixth Booke of the fifth Decade.

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

THE Venetians sorrow and greefe for the [ 20] taking of Rome and the Pope by the Imperi∣alls. The Cardinalls meete at Bolognia to treate of the Popes deliuerance. The Venetians warlike preparations by Land and Sea to free the Pope from his imprison∣ment. The Venetians seaze on Rauennato keepe it for the Holy Sea. The Duke of Vrbin taketh Perugia to the same end. The Duke [ 30] of Vrbins resolution for the Popes deliuery. The French King maketh great warlike prouisions to send into Italy. An∣dre Doria in the seruice of the French King. The army of the Confederats remaineth on the Confines of the Siennois. The Popes agreement to come forth of prison. The Venetians resolution vpon that agreement. The Lord of Lautrec commeth into the state of Milan with great forces. Bosco and Alexandria taken by him. Pauia is taken and sackt by the French. Genoa is reduced vnder the French Kings obedience. The Turke being assailed [ 40] by Marcello, had soone after his reuenge. The Lord Lautrec marcheth towards Rome. The demands propounded by the French King in the moti∣on of peace. The Agreement, whereby the Duke of Ferrara and the Mar∣quis of Mantua enter into the league. The entire enlargement of the Popes person. The Venetians send an Ambassad to the Pope, inuiting him to enter into the league. The like Ambassade of the most Christian King to the same effect. The Popes excuses not to enter into any new confederacy. The Lord Lautrecs iourny into the Kingdome of Naples. The Popes demand to the [ 50] Venetians, with their answer. The Imperialls refuse to fight. The Lord Lau∣trec encampeth before Naples. The Duke of Brunswich commeth with great forces into Lombardy. The Venetians preparations against the Duke of

Brunswich. He returneth into Germany. The Imperialls are put to rout at Sea. The arriuall of the Generall of the Venetian Army before Naples with the discommodities which it there endured. Andre Doria reuolteth from the Kings seruice. The Pope resolueth to remaine neuter. The great wants of the Army before Naples. And lastly the Lord Lautrecs Death.

[ 10]

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

THE accident at Rome being knowne at Venice, together with the Popes imprisonment, did greatly afflict the Senate with griefe and compassion, and with a disdaine for the wrong offered to the person of the holy Father, wherevpon* 1.777 they not intending to suffer any longer the Emperors for∣tune [ 30] to encrease to their owne perill, determined to releeue the Pope with all their forces, and therein to spare for no cost: which caused them to write to the Duke of Vrbin their Generall, and to Pisani and Vitturi the Prouidators, to lay by all other de∣seignes and attempt onely, if it were possible, to free the Pope from his imprison∣ment: and the better to effect it to come neere to the Castle wherein hee was shutte vp, to seeke by all meanes to draw him thence; and because no other matter might hinder this enterprize, they forth-with made a new leuy of foote, to encrease their forces to the number of ten thousand foot, which lay on the con∣fines of Crema and Lauda, to resist Antonio de Leua, who being come forth into [ 40] the field, and finding no opposition, was likely euery day to grow more strong by the aid which he expected forth of Germany. The Venetians were incited therevnto, by the great preparations of the Kings of England and France, who hauing notice of the great inhumanity vsed towards his Holinesse, and the scan∣dall giuen to the Church of Christendome, by detayning the head thereof in prison, determining to remedy it resolued betwixt themselues at their owne char∣ges to send an army into Italy to free the Pope, and to put him in possession of all the Churches lands: and another mighty one into Flanders by assayling that country to enforce the Emperor to abandon Italy for the defence thereof.

These two Kings were very earnest in this businesse, wherevpon the Cardinall* 1.778 of Yorke, who could doe more then all men with the King of England, came for [ 50] the same purpose to Amiens to the French king, to procure an enteruiew of those two kings, to the end they might consult together more considerately concerning the Popes deliuery. The most Christian King seemed to be no lesse willing there∣in, who sent speedy word to his Captaines in Italy to procure by all meanes

the Popes freedome from imprisonment, and to assure the State Ecclesiasticall: and the better to prouide for it with more speed, he aduised those Cardinals that* 1.779 were at liberty, to meet at Anignon, where, as in a safe and commodious place, they might with ease treat thereof, and from thence send their resolutions into Spaine, The Cardinalls approouing this Councell of vniting themselues toge∣ther did for sondry respects make choyce of the Citty of Bolognia for their mee∣ting place.

The Emperor in the meane time being aduertized of the Popes taking, by his cheefe Chancellor that was going into Italy, did by his speech manifest that he* 1.780 was highly displeased therewith, alleadging diuers goodly matters for his iustifica∣tion. [ 10] But the effects were not answerable thereunto, resoluing on nothing for his deliuery, but in his discourse did oftentimes excuse the Duke of Bourbon and his Army, he did amplifie the iniuries which the Pope had done him; he accused his inconstancy and little assurance in his treaties, calling to mind the dangers whereinto the Consederates had gone about to east him: whereby and by euery of his discourses, it was easily perceiued that in secret he was well pleased there∣with, and that he would neuer consent to his deliuery, nor to that of the French Kings children, but by compulsion.

The French King hauing before sent to make a leuy of tenne thousand Suisses [ 20] for the enterprise of Lombardy, and his agents going therein slowly to worke, so soone as he had notice of the taking of Rome, fearing the alteration of Fortune, and the Imperialls deseignes did sodainly send the money to Lyons, and sollici∣ted their speedy departure.

The Venetians on the other side did not ceasse by all good offices to maintain and encrease that good desire in the King propounding vnto him how necessa∣ry it was hotly to pursue that warre with great forces, Religion and State agreeing in one, not to suffer the dignity of the Sea Apostolick, and the liberty of Italy to be troden vnder foot: and for to incite him no lesse by deeds then words, they de∣termined to renew their nauall army, which was much weakened by the bad ayre [ 30] * 1.781 and other discommodities at Ciuitauechia, where it had for a time remayned, & to arme besides it, foure Basterd Galleis, of which they appointed Antonio Mar∣cello Captaine, thereby to strengben the army that it might assaile the Sea-coasts of Puglia. They did moreouer propound to the King to leuy, besides the Suisses at their common charge, other tenne thousand foot, drawing in the meane time to their pay all the best experienced Captaines in martiall affaires that they could find: among whom were the Count of Gaiazzo and the Marquis Palauicin. And to encourage Francis Sforza, of whose freindship and readinesse they made great account, they lent him tenne thousand Ducats, with which he promised to en∣crease his forces, which were already more then two thousand foot, and to come [ 40] in person with them to Lauda, there for to ioyne with the Venetian army. Now because that the territories of Romagnia were without Garrisons, and exposed to sundry dangers in so wretched a time, no man giuing them ayde nor succour, the* 1.782 Senate beeing greatly prouoked therunto, fent a good surome of money to the Gouernor of Rauenna to leuy foot forces for the garrison of the Citty, encoura∣ging him to defend it, with promise of greater ayd if need should be, as within a while after they did, by sending him three hundred foot and an hundred light horse vnder the command of Iohn de Nalde, inioyning him to keepe that City for the Sea Apostolick and the league.

But strife arising in that Citty betwixt the Inhabitants and the soldiers, the Ve∣netians were entreated by them of the Citty to send thither one from Venice to [ 50] be Prouidator there, whereupon Bartholomeo Contrren by the Senates consent went thither to supply that place. Those of Ceruia within a while after did the like where the Guelphes, hauing ch•…•…sed away those of the Gibelline faction, did re∣ceiue garrison and a Magistrate of the Venetians, the Legat ernestly requiring it,

for the quiet and conseruation of the same Citty.

Whilest these things were done, the Duke of Vrbin hauing receiued the Se∣nates* 1.783 commandement, and disposing him-selfe for the execution thereof, did first of all make him-selfe sure of the Citty of Perusa, wherein Gentil Baillone commanded, who was suspected to hold with the enemies part, whome with threatenings hee enforced to depart thence, and hauing left a strong garrison, there, hee marched with the army to Todi, and from thence to Oruietto where he ioyned himselfe with the French, and Ecclesiasticall troupes, as he had formerly concluded to doe. And hauing there assembled all the cheefe Captaines, to re∣solue on what they should afterwards doe, hee caused the Senates letter to bee [ 10] * 1.784 openly read, and then assured them, for the obeying of their command, that hee intended to march directly to Rome, to free by all meanes possible the Pope from imprisonment, resoluing if the enemies should shew them-selues, to fight with them, and with others to runne one selfe-same fortune.

This proposition beeing allowed by the Prouidator Pisani, was entertained with the Generall consent of all the rest, (the Prouidator Vitturi excepted) who being of a contrary opinion opposed him-selfe against it both in word and deed, protesting by writing and detesting such an enterprize as most pernicious, and of* 1.785 doubtfull issue, saying that their soldiers were farre inferiour both in number and valour to the Imperialls, who were very many, and for the most part good soldiers [ 20] and well experienced, either in fight, or in knowledge how to vanquish, and there∣fore more valliant and ready to sustaine all attempts how great soeuer. By meanes whereof hee cooled the Dukes former heate, who not-with standing continued in his first resolution to draw neerer to Rome, meaning neuer-the-lesse to lodge in a very strong and commodious place, what-so-euer should befall, then hee propounded a new inuention, to the end to trie first without danger, if hee could get the Pope from thence, which was speedily and on the sodaine to cause Fre∣dericke of Bozzola to march towards Rome with one company of men at armes, a certaine number of light-horse, and some companies of harquebuziers on horse-backe, hoping that his sodaine and vnlookt for arriuall, might offer some [ 30] meanes to the Pope to escape by that conuoy, and to come to the army of the league, but this designe succeeded not, for diuers occasions, and cheefely because that Frederics horse falling vpon him, hee was there-with sore hurt, so that hee could goe on no farther, but was enforced to returne.

But the army in the meane time continuing their approches, they were aduer∣tized by certaine spies, that the trenches which the Imperialls had made neere to the Castle, were very great, and hard to be forced: whereby the difficulties of the enterprize were encreased: and moreouer that they at Rome expected the Spa∣nish Infantery which was at Naples, and that Captaine Alarcon was already arri∣ued; wherevpon the Duke was of opinion to passe on nofarther with the army, the [ 40] * 1.786 which was allowed almost by all the other Captains: and therefore hee did spee∣ly aduertize the Senate, saying that for to releeue the Castle, it behooued him to haue greater forces then he then had, and in particularizing them, he did affirme that to draw the Pope from thence, there ought to bee in the army the number of sixteene thousand Swisses, leuied by a decree of the Cantons, not accoun∣ting those that were already there, and besides the Swisses tenne thousand Italian Harqueguziers, three thousand Pioners, and fourtie peeces of ordnance.

These newes did greatly displease the Venetians in regard of the delaying of matters, and of the Popes troubles and wearysomenesse, which was much en∣creased [ 50] by reading of a letter, written by the Pope to his Liuetenant Guicciar∣dyne, who sent it to the Senate; by the which hee entreated, solicited, and coniured the confederates, by all meanes to procure his deliuerance. The

Senate therefore hauing heard of the opposition and hinderance made by the* 1.787 Prouidator Vitturi, concerning the approach of the army neere to Rome, dischar∣ged him of his office, and being called home to Venice he was committed to the Auogario there to yeeld an account of his actions▪

The Senate in the meane time insisting more earnestly in the same resolution, to releeue the Pope, and to draw him from thence, wrote to the Generall, and to the Prouidators, to vse all meanes possible for that purpose to approach neere to the Castle, the which the Generall refusing, chose rather to giue ouer his place, which the Senators tooke in bad part, but after that the one and the other of [ 10] them were appeased, they confirmed him in the place of Generall for two yeares more.

The French on the other side greatly detesting the Popes imprisonment, and* 1.788 enuying the Spaniards fortunate successe, made great preparations of warre, the King making account to come to Lyons to take order for the affaires of war, ha∣uing first commanded fifteene thousand Swisses to be leuied, and tenne thousand Italian foote. And that hee might like-wise haue a nauall army for that purpose, hee tooke Andre Doria to his pay with eight Gallies, and promised to giue him a yearely entertaynement of sixe and thirty thousand crownes, and appointed the* 1.789 Lord of Lautrec Captaine Generall of all the troupes by land; where-with the Venetians being highly pleased, did the more to honour him, appoint Petro Pesa∣re [ 20] Procurator of Saint Marke, their Ambassador, who should meet him at his comming into Italy and waite vpon him wheresoeuer hee went.

The Imperialls in the meane time that were in Rome, albeit that their num∣ber was much encreased by the arriuall of the Spaniards that came from Na∣ples, finding them-selues to bee foure and twenty thousand foote, tooke their leisure, enioying with ease the wealthy spoyles that they had gotten at the sacke of the Citty, their Captaines beeing not able, neither to cause them to come fourth of the towne, nor yet to restraine their vnbrideled licence: two compa∣nies alone of Lancequenets, leauing the Citty went and spoyled Terni and Narni, going on no farther, not-with-standing that the Confederates army was farre [ 30] enough of: for those of the league hauing lost their hope of the enterprize of Rome, the Venetians following the Marquis of Salusses, and all the French went and encamped on the confines of the Siennois, to assure thereby the Florentines Territories, and to bring them to this passe, (the which they did) to ratifie the league, and to entertaine fiue thousand foote in the army at their owne charges, wherein they shewed them-selues so much the more willing and ready, by how much they were neere vnto danger, the Imperiall Cap∣taines threatning to turne their forces vpon them, being displeased with them, for that in the beginning of the Popes misfortune, they had made some shew to follow the Emperors party, and yet after-wards had cleaued to his enemies. [ 40]

The Venetian forces did at that time consist of sixe thousand Italian foote∣men, two thousand Lancequenets, thirteene hundred light horse, and two thousand men at armes, and the French Infantery was not aboue seauen thou∣sand* 1.790 foote-men, albeit the King paid a greater number. But the great dearth of victuall and the sharpe diseases which did dayly decrease the army, did hinder them from enterprizing any matter. By reason whereof the enemies forces being encreased and those of the league diminished, the Pope hauing lost all hope of speedy releef, did wholly incline to practizes of agreement* 1.791 and hoping to haue a better composition of the Viceroy, who was at Sienna, he sent for him, and by the same meanes entreated the Duke of Vrbin to suffer him [ 50] safely to come to Rome▪

The Viceroy went willingly and in great hast to the army, not so much for the Popes profit, as for the hope he had to be made General therof. But being arriued at Rome, whither he came by a safe conduct of the Captains of the league, he had

notice that the Lancequenets and Spaniards wisht him no good, who after the Duke of Bourbons death had chosen the Prince of Orange for their Generall, so as he had not the courage to speake of any agreement with the Pope, but much lesse to tarry there: for being not gracious in the eyes of the army, he had no more authority, neither in the affaires of warre, nor in the treaty of agreement with the Pope, who at the last being banckrout of all hope, did on the sixth day of Iune make an agreement with the Imperialls, on the same conditions, in a manner, as he might before then haue decreed vpon with them.

That the Pope should pay vnto the army foure hundred thousand Ducats:* 1.792 should deliuer to the Emperor to keepe so long as he should thinke good the [ 10] Castle of Saint Angelo, the Forts of Ostia, Ciuitauechia, and Ciuitacastelane, with the Citties of Placentia, Parma and Modena. For the accomplishment of which matters, the Pope, being not yet wholly set at liberty, was to remaine pri∣soner in the Castle, with the Cardinalls that were with him, who were thirteene in number, vntill the army had receiued the first paiment, which was of one hun∣dred and fifty thousand Ducats, and that afterwards they should goe to Naples or Gayetta to expect in that place how the Emperour would determine of them.

This manner of proceeding did greatly displease the Venetians: but the Pope,* 1.793 fearing his owne life, because of the Colonesi and the Lancequenets, was en∣forced [ 20] to allow of this agreement, albeit that it was very preiudicial to him: wher∣vpon the Venetians, hoping that time might bring them better fortune, determi∣ned to keepe the Citty of Cremona, and to that end caused the army, which they had in Lombardy, neere to Crema, to crosse foorthwith the riuer Adda, to put a Garrison into that Citty, and to hinder the consignation of the others, by break∣ing the condition agreed vpon, and by spoyling the Contrey neere to Milan and Pauia to molest and weaken the Imperialls.

Now the Castle of Saint Angelo was by this accord foorth-with yeelded to Captaine Alarcon, who entred it with three companies of Spanish footmen, and [ 30] three companies of Lancequenets, appointed to guard the Castle and the Pope: But the other townes and Castles, that were promised, were not so easily consig∣ned, by reason that the Castle of Ciuita-Chastelane was guarded by the Confederates, and Aadrew Doria refused to deliuer vp that of Ciuitauechia, vn∣lesse he were first paied fourteene thousand Ducats, which he said was due vnto him for his entertainment: Parma and Placentia on the other-side, abhorring the Spanish gouernment, refused to receiue them, and those of Modena were reduced vnder the obedience of the Duke of Ferrara, who making vse of the Popes cala∣mity, threatning the Modenois to spoile their corne, which was almost ripe, did enforce them to deliuer vp the citty into his handes. [ 40]

The Confederates army remained quiet without attempting any thing. ex∣pecting the arriuall of the Lord of Lautrec, who was said to be already in Pied∣mont, with great forces, both of horse and foot, albeit the Captaines in the meane▪ time were of sondry opinions, some thinking that being vnited with the French, it would be best for them to march directly to Rome, where they should find the Imperiall army in such disorder as they might easily set the Pope at li berty, by reason that it was much diminished, as well by the contagious sicknesse* 1.794 which was in the Citty, as by the ouer-much licence which the Soldiers had taken for certaine monethes space, liuing without al order, and without any martiall discipline, some of them being lodged in the Citty, and others heere and there a∣broad, and that diuers of them beeing disbanded went their waies daily without [ 50] any leaue: whereby they might with ease driue those few from Rome that remay∣ned behind.

Those of the contrary opinion thought, that for the effecting of that deseigne it were better to scoure the state of Milan, beeing neere thereunto, to enforce

the Imperials to leaue Rome, and to come to the defense thereof, which might prooue either to slow or insufficient to stoppe the current of the victory, wherby they might at one time execute diuers fortunate exploits, and perhaps giue an end to the warre.* 1.795

This being alowed by all men, and propounded to the Lord of Lautrec at his arriuall, he entred into the state of Milan with eight thousand Suisses, three thou∣sand Gascons, and tenne thousand footmen conducted by Pedro of Nauarre, and went and encamped before the towne of Bosco, on the marches of Alexandria,* 1.796 where was a Garrison of a thousand footmen, the most of whom were Lancequenets, who after they had for the space of tenne dayes sustained the [ 10] battery and sundry assaults, did at the last yeeld themselues at the discretion of the Victor.

This conquest was followed by that of Alexandria, whither the Lord Lautrec came afterwards and encamped, wherin lay fifteene hundred footmen, who be∣ing molested at one time, both by the Artillery and the mynes, were enforced to yeeld; their liues and goods beeing saued.

But the taking of Alexandria was cause of the beginning of some contention* 1.797 betwixt the confederates. For the Lord of Lautrec being desirous to leaue fifteene hundred footmen in Garrison there, to the end that at al euents his owne companies might haue one place of retreat, and those which should [ 20] come from France finde some comodiousnesse of meeting there the Duke of Milans Ambassador, fearing that it would be the beginning of an oc∣casion to possesse that State for his King, opposed him-selfe against it, the like did the Ambassadors of England and Venice, wherevpon Lautrec agreed (not without indignation) to leaue it freely to the Duke of Milan: a matter which did afterwards greatly preiudice the leagne.

Now Lautrec, after the conquest of Alexandria propounded that he would march to Rome to free the Pope from imprisonment, who, although he had agreed (as hath beene said) with the Almaines and Spaniards, did neuerthelesse still remaine a prisoner vnder their guard, vntill that he had accomplished the articles of the [ 30] agreement, as wel for payment of the money, as for the consignation of the a∣boue mentioned townes, where-in were found sundry difficulties: where∣vppon the Emperor did not there-in shew him-selfe well▪ disposed nor resolute, although by his speech he sought to haue all men to beleeue the contrary.* 1.798

But the Venetians did wholy dislike of Lautrecs proposition; not that they stood lesse affected to the Popes enlargement then did the King, but because they thought the enterprise of Rome lesse profitable for the common cause then that of Milan, as it had beene debated before his comming, and afterwards confirmed by himselfe, that there was at the same time great hope of beeing able to con∣quer [ 40] Pauia and Milan, where there were weake Garrisons, and that Antonio de Leua, who by his dilligence and skill, more then by force, did gouerne that State, lay greeuously sicke, and was vnable to prouide remedies: that losing this oppor∣tunity the affaires of the league would euer afterwards decline, in regard of the huge number of Lancequenets that were ready to come down from the County of Tiroll, into Lombardy, But by taking Milan from them, which was their only retreat, and hauing neither cauallery nor victualls, they would be enforced to change their mindes, and to tarry at home in their houses: that in the meane space it would giue time and leisure to tenne thousand Almaines, payd by the King of England, to come to the campe of the league, and afterwards they [ 50] might with those forces march to Rome, and driue the enemies before them, assuring, together with the Churches State, the libertye of all Italy.

The Lord of Lautrec inclining to their request, determined to march* 1.799 towards Pauia, before which with great speed he went and encamped (the releefe which Antonio de Leua sent, not beeing able to enter it) the which being batte∣red for the space of foure daies, and a great part of the wall beaten downe, the soldiors making ther approches, did enter it by the breach. The Citty was sackt, and the French for eight daies together vsed all sorts of cruelty vpon the inhabitants, who had vanted that they had beene the vanquishers of the French King, because that King Francis was taken prisoner lying at the seege of the same Citty.

The Genowais at the same time being afflicted with sundry losses and cala∣mities, [ 10] and cheefely with famine, sent Ambassadors to the Lord Lautrec for to capitulate. The Citties Duke, whose name was Antonio Adorni, retired him-selfe into the Castellet, and the tumult being appeased by Phillip Doria, who was prisoner there, the Citty returned vnder the Kings obedience, who appointed Theodario Triuulcio gouernor thereof: and the Venetians, because they would* 1.800 not leaue their Captaines vnrecompenced, who had valiantly behaued them∣selues in the reduction of Genoa, they encreased to Caesar Fregosa the conduct∣of other thirty men at armes, and doubled his pay; they did like-wise acknow∣ledge the valour and prowesse of Guy Nalda, Augustin Clusone, Haniball Fregosa, Caesar Martinenga, and diuers others whose valour did greatly apeare in that [ 20] action.

The businesse of Genoa being ended, and Iohn Mora, the Prouidator of the Venetians nauall army being come with sixteene Galleis to Liuorne, where hee found Doria who tarried for him, with sixteene Gallies, they resolued together to giue in vpon the Isle of Sardinia, hoping easily to winne it, and that it would bee very commodious for them, for the conquest of Sicily; but this enter∣prize* 1.801 proued infortunate, for the fleete being come neere to the Island, and ha∣uing taken certaine Sea townes, it hapned, as it went from one place to an∣other, that it was assailed by a furious tempest, which did scatter it into sundry places, certaine Venetian Gallies beeing a long time beaten in it, did at last [ 30] arriue safely at Liuorne. The rest after-wards hauing runne the same fortune, came to Corsica, whether the French Gallies had already escaped, (two excep∣ted) which were broken vpon the rockes of Sardinia. And not being able at that time to enterprize any thing at Sea, by reason that winter approched, Iohn Mora retired with his Gallies to Corfou: Petro Lande was at the same time Generall of the Venetians nauall army, who was commanded to scoure the Seas neere to the Islands, and places of their dominions, to assure and comfort their subiects, and that sayling into Sicily hee should take all the ships that were fould to bee loden with corne, and send them to Venice where was great scarcity of victualls. [ 40]

But the Generall hauing for the assurance of the Seas sent Augustine de Mul∣la the Prouidator with two light Gallies, to scoure on the one side, and Anto∣nio Marcello with foure Bastard Gallies whereof hee was Captaine on the o∣ther, it fell out that Marcello beeing come to Candy into the Hauen of La Suda, had intelligence that a Turkish Gally was to passe neere vnto the Island; he suposing that it was Cortugoll, a famous Pirate, who not long before in the same Seas, had taken and spoyled a Venetian shippe, and then burnt it, killing all the Marriners and passengers that were in it, did speedily come forth of the Hauen, and beeing desirous to reuenge that iniury came on a sodaine to assaile it, the which hee tooke, and then retired with his owne and this Gally [ 50] to La Bicorna: Where the Gallies ryding with their Poopes towards the land, hee descried within a while after seauen Turkish Galleis to passe along one after another, which belonged to the Moore of Alexandria, (as the same

did which he had taken) Marcello remaining firme in that place, without any feare at all was amazed when he saw himselfe assailed on the sodaine by the Bar∣barian,* 1.802 who hauing re-assembled his owne, did furiously assault him, where-vp∣on Marcello was enforced to escape by flight; the like did his fellowes, who not departing so soone as he, but one alone escaped, the other two being taken were carried to Alexandria.

The Venetian Captaine beeing to yeeld an account for this deed, the A•…•…ogares of the Republick were commanded to take notice thereof, and for this purpose he* 1.803 was sent for from the army as a prisoner; but greefe by the way killed him. Soliman being aduertized of the indiscretion of the Captaine, and of the Senates good [ 10] will, not like a barbarous Prince, vsing curtesie, and liberality towards the Senate,* 1.804 sent back their Galleies which were taken, being loden with salt-peeter, which they greatly needed, and bestowed them vpon the Venetians as his guift. For this cause and for diuers other signes of friendship, the Senate thought good to send an ex∣presse Ambassade to him to giue him thankes in the common-wealths name for all his curtesies and demonstrations of Frendship towards it, and to continew and encrease that good will in him.

Thomas Contaren was chosen for this purpose, vnto whom were giuen diuers rich garments and other presents of great value to present to the Baschas of the Port, and cheefely to Ibraim, who for the friendship and affection which the [ 20] great Turke did beare vnto him, was at the same time in great credit and repu∣tation.

Whilst these thinges were done in the Leuant, the Lord of Lautrec returning* 1.805 to his former deseignes, at such time as all men expected, that following the course of his victory he would haue marched towards Milan to beseege it, he tur∣ned another way, and hauing with his army passed the Po, he marched towards Placentia, intending, (as he said) to lay by all other enterprizes, and to thinke on nothing, but how to sette the Pope at liberty. All men wondred at this so∣daine change, seeing the faire occasion which was offered, if he had conti∣nued to giue an end vnto the warre of Lombardy by taking the Citty of [ 30] Milan.

It was not knowne whether Lautrec was mooued thereunto, rather by some* 1.806 particular affection, or for some interest of his King, then for any care he had of the Popes liberty. It is certaine that in his heart he did beare a secret grudge to the Venetians, and Francis Sforza, for their oppositions concerning the matter of Alexandria. These suspitions were confirmed by his manner of proceeding, who speedily departing, with such ill prouision as hee had, forth of the state of the Dutchy of Milan, did afterwards pursue his iourney very slowly, and for that after hee had ioyned him-selfe with the Almaine foote-men, vpon the expecting of whome hee had at the firstexcused his delay, he remained at Parma without doing [ 40] any thing.

The Army of the league, had no better successe, who beeing lodged neere to Montefiascone did spend the time vnprofitably, notwithstanding that the weak∣nesse of the enemies army did sufficiently affoord them meanes to execute somme enterprize. This gaue occasion to the Venetians to suspect, that the Duke of* 1.807 Vrbin, for his owne perticular interest, did not proceed with such fidelity as he ought, therefore they placed guardes ouer his wife and children who lay at that time at M•…•…rana. The Duke of Vrbin hauing intelligence that the Venetians did distrust him, sent Horacio Florida, oue of his Gentlemen to Venice, to procure leaue for him to come thither, that he might iustifie himselfe and yeeld an account [ 50] of his actions.

The Senate, either for that they were better informed, or else beeing very desirous to fitte them-selues vnto time and necessity, would not permit him to depart from the army, but hauing remoued the guards from his wife and children

made a shew that they were well satisfied and contented with his seruice to the Republike.

And perceauing after-wards that they could not alter the Lord of Lautrecs re∣solution, they placed their forces which they had in Lombardy, which were fif∣teene thousand foote in garrison in sundry places, for the gard of those townes which they had recouered in the state of Milan, and gaue to the said Lord Lau∣trec fifteene hundred light horse for the enterprize of Rome.

All the care and meanes to keepe the conquered townes in the Dutchy of Mi∣lan, fell vpon the signory, Francis Sforza being not able to doe it, who of him∣selfe could not entertaine the ordinary Garisons, not-with-standing that he was [ 10] * 1.808 obliged by the treaty of agreement, to send forces into the field to resist the attempts of Antonio de Leua: besides this, the Venetians feare to lose their owne, did incite them therevnto, who stood in doubt like-wise that the warre would light on their owne state, hauing intelligence of the great forces which were leuied in Tiroll, and in other places neere adioyning, with the great preparations of victualls and other munitions which was made at Trent to send into Italy. By meane whereof, the Senate imagining that it behooued them to encrease their army, to the number of twenty thousand foote, and to make a very great pro∣uision to maintayne, in a manner, an other very difficult and dangerous warre, •…•…ent to entreat the King of England, that in so great a necessity hee would [ 20] bee pleased to releeue the Common-wealth, by contributing a part of the payment of the army, where-with they were to conserue and maintaine the liberty of Italy, whereof hee had so often said that hee would bee the Pro∣tector.

But the King of England, continuing that which hee had at other times spo∣ken, that hee would beginne to make warre on the Emperor in Flanders, and* 1.809 by that meanes enforcing him to diuert his forces else-where, hee might free Ita∣ly from that danger, made a shew, that for the common good of them all, hee himselfe was to make greate preparations, and necessary prouisions for such a de∣seigne. [ 30] In regard whereof, the Signory, being constrained alone to vndergoe all the charges of the warre, was faine to haue recourse to extraordinary meanes, the publike treasure beeing in a manner exhausted, by reason of the con∣tinuall warres.

Among all these stirres and great warlike preparations, the treaty of peace was not altogether broken of, the Emperor making shew to desire it, both with the French King and the Venetians: where-vpon sundry practizes were set on* 1.810 foote to that end. The Demands of the most Christian King, and the Vene∣tians, were in efect these, that the Emperor should restore to the French King his children; That hee should set the Pope at liberty, giue ouer all that which hee held from the Church, re-establish Francis Sforza in the state of Milan, and [ 40] withdraw his forces forth of Lombardy and from Rome.

The Emperor did not altogether reiect these demands, neither yet would who∣ly accept of them, but in seeking, not without difficulty, to make some certaine resolution, hee demanded of the Venetians a great summe of mony, holding* 1.811 by that meanes the treaty in suspence, being desirous to make vse of time, and to behaue him-selfe according to the euent of the affaires of Italy, and the new stirres which his brothers preparations would procure: hoping in the meane time still to bee able, with better aduantage, to conclude an agreement with the French King alone, determining to exclude al the other Confederates, and to ap∣propriat vnto him-selfe the Dutchy of Milan. [ 50]

This was easily discerned by his owne words, persisting euer in all motions of agreement, that he would haue Francis Sforzas cause debated and censured by Iudges there-vnto appoynted, and that in the meane time the Citty of Mi∣lan, and the whole state should bee kept and garded in his name, and by his

owne Garrisons, his cheefe ayme tending wholy to become absolute maister thereof, hauing first broken all the forces of the Confederates. Where vpon all these motions of peace being laid aside, warre was againe denounced to him by the Confederates: who hoping therein to make good vse of the Duke of Fer∣rara,* 1.812 and the Marquis of Mantua, in regard of the neere neighbour-hood of their states, both the one and the other were sounded, and it was at last concluded with the Duke of Ferrara, that hee should bee receiued into the league, on condition to send to the Confederates army, two hundred men at armes, paid by him-selfe, and monethly to contribute, for the space of sixe moneths, tenne thousand Du∣cats [ 10] toward the payment of the infantery: and on the other side, the Confederates promised to take him and his State like-wise into their protection and safegard, where-vpon within a while after a great and Magnificent Pallace was restored to him which was his owne in Venice.

As concerning the agreement with the Marquis, there was greater difficulty* 1.813 in the conclusion thereof, because he craued to bee made Generall of the League in the absence of the Lord of Lautrec: wherevnto the Venetians would not con∣sent, for the respect they did beare to the Duke of Vrbin. But in the end, Ieroni∣mo Zene, Gouernor of Verona, being sent by the Senates commandement vnto Mantua, to end that businesse, hee did conclude it without the aboue-mentioned [ 20] condition, the Confederates taking the person of the Marquis, and his State into their protection.

Now the Emperor perceiuing that he was to deale with so many enemies, de∣termined first of all to publish the iustice of his cause, and by that meanes to draw away the King of England from them, and for this purpose hee resolued to* 1.814 set the Pope at liberty, for which hee sent an ample commission to the Viceroy, and to D. Hugo de Moncada, (who being newly deceassed,) the Viceroy did ex∣execute it, the Pope making ouer to the Emperor, according to the agreement, Ostia, Ciuitauecchia, and C•…•…uito Castellane, and paying likewise, (but more com∣modiously) the summe of mony promised, and promising in speciall, not to haue [ 30] any dealing in the affaires of Naples nor Milan against the Emperor.

The Confederates resoluing to make warre both by sea and land, in the begin∣ing of the yeare 1528. prepared great forces for to passe into the Kingdome of Naples, as it had beene determined according to the desire and intention of the French King, not-with-standing that they were well assured, that the Imperiall army, at their departure from Rome, would take their iournie into Naples. But the Confederates thinking it a matter of great importance, to draw the Pope in∣to the Confederacy, were in great hope thereof, because that his Holinesse ha∣uing* 1.815 aduertized the French King and the Venetians of the passed agreement, and his owne liberty, entreated them to excuse him, if necessity had enforced him so to doe, confessing that he was greatly bound to the Princes of the League, and to [ 40] haue receiued a very rigorous and cruell entertainment of the Imperialls.

So soone as the Venetians vnderstood that the Pope was set at liberty, and that he was newly gonne to Oruietta, they speedily sent Lodouico Pisani the Prouidator* 1.816 to his Holinesse, to lament with him, in the Common-wealths name, for his passed fortunes, and to acquaint him with the great greefe that the Signory had con∣ceiued thereat, and with what care they had labored his enlargement, whereof they were now wonderfull ioyfull, to see that to bee effected which they had so much desired. That the Republike had willingly imployed all her forces and meanes, beene at great charge and expence to entertaine an army in Tuscany, at the same time as it behooued it to haue an other in Lombardy: had not [ 50] refused to expose it selfe to all dangers for the conseruation of the Sea Aposto∣like, and for the particular profit of his Holynesse Person, as it was yet still ready to doe, and to reuenge the notorious iniuries done vnto him;

that the Kings of France and England, the Florentines, the Duke of Milan and the Venetians were of the same mind, not to leaue such an Insolency vnpunished: how that cursed nation had incurred the wrath of God and men, that they did not doubt but that Iustice and Innocency would preuaile, and that his Holinesse being restored to his former state, all matters would redound to his honour and glory. And that therefore all the Confederats did greatly desire and likewise hope that his Holinesse to releeue their sinceere and entire intention with his authority, would confirme the Confederacy as Cheefe thereof, by newly ratifieing, that which before had beene agreed vpon by them, seeing that the first agreement ought to be of more force, then the latter, as beeing concluded by himselfe in [ 10] * 1.817 quallity of Pope, and with his pure and freewill, and this latter being extorted by force and violence, as from a prisoner that was desirous of his liberty.

The French King caused the same congratulation to be made to him by the Lord of Longueuall his Ambassador whom he sent to Rome, to testifie the great desire he euer had to constraine the Emperor by force to doe that which at last he had done, and that the practizes of peace betwixt the Emperor and him, had beene to none other end but to amuze him and make him cold in the preparations for warre, and not with an intention to conclude any thing with him, helping him∣selfe with the same cunning, wherewith he had sundry times practized in his behalfe. [ 20]

These Ambassadors were very pleasing to the Pope, and by him attentiuely heard, wherevpon, he gaue thankes to the King and the Venetians, with demon∣stration of great loue towards them, saying, that for his deliuerance, he felt him∣selfe* 1.818 no lesse bound to the French King and the Venetians then if he had beene freed by their armes: but yet neuerthelesse all this was without any resolution, for vpon their entreaty that he would confederate him selfe with the rest, he beganne to make them sundry answers: at one time putting them in hope presently to doe it, at another, excusing himselfe, that hauing nether men, money, nor authority, it would not greatly profit them if he should declare himselfe, and yet neuertheles it might hurt him, because it would giue an occasion to the Imperialls to molest [ 30] him in sundry places: besides his Pontificall dignity, the condition of the times and the greeuous and sharpe miseries that he had sustained, did very much incite him to a neutrality, and to become a fit Instrument to treat with the French King, and the other Christian Princes concerning an vniuersall peace and quiet: and that therefore he would no more commit him-selfe to the hazards of warre.

It may be that beeing carried away by the Emperors faire promises, (who with his owne hand wrote a gentle and courteous letter to him, how that he would hence foreward follow his councell and commit vnto him the whole negotiation of the peace) he might speake thus, or else that which is most likely and which was [ 40] afterwards discouered, he was content to forget all the wrong which he had re∣ceiued by his imprisonment to haue better means to reuenge the iniuries done to himselfe and his house by the Florentines.

His intent then was with sundry excuses to couer this desire of his: for being* 1.819 discouered, it would haue bred such a distrust in the Lord of Lautrec, as it would easily haue caused him to alter his purpose from passing on any farther in the en∣terprize of Naples which was a thing the Pope desired, to the end that the Lance∣quenets might be enforced to depart from Rome, who mutening often-times among themselues would not get them thence, demanding new paiments of money. [ 50]

The Lord of Lautrec beeing ignorant of the Popes deseigne, and vpon the assurance of his ayd and fauor, did in the meane time pursue the enterprise of Na∣ples, albeit it was against the opinion and consent of the Venetians who by

reason of that new leauy of Lansequenets for the enemies, could haue wished that hee might not goe so farre off, to the end they might the better and with more conueniency be releeued.

Lautrec then, being resolute in his opinion, tooke his way thorow Romagnia* 1.820 and La Marca, thinking it to be best and most conuenient for the commodity of victuals, and for the carriage of the ordnance, determining to enter into the Realme of Naples by the way of Otronte, which diuideth the Churches State from the Kingdome of Naples, thorow which at one time were gonne before, the Venetian troupes, diuided into two bands, in the first were Valerio Vrsino and the [ 10] Prouidator Pisani: and in the other, followed Camillo Vrsino and Petro Pesare. These being gonne before, seized on Ciuitella, and afterwards on Sulmona, and on diuers others in Abruzzo, which yeelded voluntarily. But the whole troupes did afterwards meet altogether neere to Saint Fermo, to the number of thirty thousand foot, and great numbers of Cauallery, as well men at armes as light∣horse, a preparation without all doubt suffitient for any enterprize whatsoeuer, the Lord Lautrec hauing taken the longest way into Puglia by the sea side, in regard of the difficulty to carry the ordnance, if in those mountainous places hee should haue met with any encombrance of the enemies.

The Prince of Orange and the Marquis of Guasto beeing greatly mooued for [ 20] the daunger, wherevnto they perceiued the affaires of Naples to be brought▪ did not without great difficulty draw away their troupes from Rome, which was greatly furthered by the summe of twenty thousand Ducats which the Pope gaue to the Imperiall captaines, vnder collour of some old claimes, whereof they gaue* 1.821 some pay to the Lansequenets, who more then the rest seemed most loath to de∣part. But the number of their whole army did not amount to aboue foureteene thousand, and yet so sore weakened, as well by the contagious sicknesse which was in Rome, as for that many souldiers were disbanded and gonne home to their country loden with spoile.

But the Pope by this meanes being freed of that which did most presse him, and [ 30] for the which he had till then kept himselfe a loofe from the confederates, so soone as these enemies troupes were departed from Rome, hee sent the Archbishop Si∣pontyne* 1.822 to Venice, to demand of the Senate that it should forthwith render vnto him the Cities of Ceruia and Rauenna: and on the other side he dispatched the Bishop of Pistoya into France to excuse him to the King (whom till then hee had* 1.823 entertained with sundry hopes that he would declare himselfe for the league) for that he could not according to his desire make a new consederacy, because that wanting both money and forces, his declaration would nothing profit the Con∣federates; that all he could doe was to treat of peace, and for that purpose he had giuen commission to the said Bishop to goe to the Emperour, to exhort him with [ 40] vehement speeches thervnto, mixing neuerthelesse with that discourse, some com∣plaint against the Venetians, for that they had possessed and did still detaine cer∣taine of the Churches lands.

The Popes demand was much displeasing to the Senate, not so much for the matter in question, as because it was made in an vnseasonable time, perceiuing very well that the Pope sought onely some occasion to breake off from them, as also for that it was a matter vnreasonable rashly to yeeld vp these townes, in so disodered a time, and in which the Imperials did still hold many townes of the Churches State: yet neuerthelesse sundry were of opinion that it was not good to breake with the Pope for any occasion whatsoeuer, but that they ought by all meanes to gratifie him, and for the rest to depend on his promise and good will, [ 50] reposing so much trust in him, as that he would not forsake them.

This businesse being debated in the Senate▪ Dominito Treuisan, Procurator of Saint Marke, a man of great reputation for his long experience and knowledge in affaires of importance, declared by sound and pregnant reasons: how that it

was best to obserue the Pope, and to render those Cities which he demanded: On the contrary, Lodouico Mocenigo Knight, one of the chiefe Senators, and who had beene of opinion to send backe the Nuncio with a refusall of his demand, rose vp, and hauing propounded the inconueniences which might redound to the Sig∣nory,* 1.824 by surren•…•…ing, in so miserable a season, those Cities which the Pope cra∣ued, the Senators grew to be diuided, some of them inclyning to one side and some to an other. But at last they resolued to answere the Pope, That the Senate had euer beene very desirous of peace, which might be for the good and safety of the Commonwealth, and particularly to the glory and aduancement of the* 1.825 Church, and that therefore it would willingly embrace any kinde of agreement, [ 10] but that it behoued them first to consult together to moderate the other difficul∣ties, and that for the same end they would shortly send an expresse Ambassadour to treate in his presence of the businesse propounded by the Archbishop Sipon∣tine, and of all other matters, to let him know their sincere and entire loue to∣wards him.

According to this answere, they on a sodaine appointed Gasparo Contaren their Ambassadour for Rome: but the Pope being displeased therewith, shewed him∣selfe more sharpe and earnest in his demaund; wherevpon the Lord Lautrec ha∣uing sent to his Holinesse the Count Guydo Rangone, and the Knight Casall, to vse all meanes they could to appease him, they did not only loose their labour, but [ 20] he told them besides that if those Cities were not surrendred to him, in stead of de∣claring himselfe for the league (wherevnto they did dayly solicite him) hee would vnite himselfe with the Imperialls, causing his Nuncio to say as much to the King: and indeed he declared by euident signes that he inclined therevnto, hauing expresly sent a Nuncio into Spaine to treat with the Emperor, al-be-it he affirmed, that hee had giuen him commission but to treat of an vniuersall peace, wherevnto if the Emperour should refuse to harken, that he should denounce warre, as the other Confederates had done.

During all these practizes, the Imperiall captaines, who were already passed in•…•…o the Kingdome of Naples, beganne to be of different opinions: For the [ 30] Marquis of Guasto on the one side councelled them to march whither the Lord Lautrec lay with his army, to trie if they could draw him to the fight, this he did for diuers occasions which mooued him to hazard the whole, on the vn∣certaine euent of a battaile.

F•…•…st, because that the Confederates were diuided amongst themselues (their* 1.826 infantery being greater then Lautrecs) for that the people of the Kingdome did dayly rise in the behalfe of the French, the difficulty of receiuing any money from the Emperour, and the mutines which vpon that occasion the Almaine foot▪ men made, in regard whereof it being to bee feared that the entire losse of that State would ensue, he thought it much more proffitable to hazard all on [ 40] the euent of battaile, wherein lay as great hope of good successe as of danger: and the French army being broken, al the townes, which they had taken, would returne vnder their obedience, and the Kingdome of Naples might thereby bee assured.

Others maintained the contrary, saying, That the safest way for them was to lodge in some place strong by sytuation, and commodious for victuals, from whence the enemies could not easily driue them, where they might obserue and narrowly marke the behauior of the army of the league, and according therevnto to order their owne enterprizes: and if that they should perceiue the enemies to encrease in prosperous successe, then to take vpon them the defense of the Ci∣ty of Naples, because that vpon the conseruation or losse of the same did who∣ly [ 50] depend the successe of that warre: That they had receiued newes how that the Prince of Melphi, and Fabricio Mara•…•…ani were onwards on their way, with great forces for their reliefe, & that their army being therewith strengthened, they needed no more to feare the enemies attempts, but should be able to breake

all their deseignes. That it was the part of him that had charge to defend a State enuaded by a mighty army, to temporize, because that time doth very often bring with it great and vnlooked for commodities: that without all doubt there were disorders in the enemies army, and by so much the greater, by how much the interests of the Confederates were different: that there was nothing which could lesse be gouerned by discretion and good councell, then the successe of bat∣tailes: that there was none so safe and ready a way to victory, nor any thing more worthy the reputation of a great captaine, then to entertaine the enemie with sundry cunnings, and consume him by little and little, with time and discommo∣dity, the which vndoubtedly might happen to the French campe: That they [ 10] needed not likewise to feare, but that the Neapolitans would prouide money for the necessary payment of the Lansequenets, till such time as the pay from Spaine should arriue.

This opinion beeing accompanied with the authory of Alarçon who did con∣stantly* 1.827 maintaine it, was receiued for the best, wherevpon they resolued to passe forward, with an easie march, euer lodging in stronge and safe places, and in this manner to enter into the •…•…erra di Lauor, to come neere to the City of Naples. But the Imperials beeing retired into Troy to make prouision of victuals and to enquire after the enemy, Lautrec (as the French are more hardy and resolute) embraced that deseigne which the enemy had quited, and determined to seeke [ 20] them out and to offer them battaile, mooued chiefly therevnto (as hee said after∣wards)* 1.828 for feare least his army should on a sodaine dissolue it selfe and depriue him of the fruite of other fortunate successes till then obtained, for want of pay.

For, payment being to come from France, he perceiued that the King did open∣ly shew himselfe to be weary of so great expences, and his officers to be negligent in appointing necessary prouisions: hee had besides great hope to winne the victory, the Marquis of Sal•…•…ss es being ioyned with him, and daylie expecting the Venetian and Florentine troupes, consisting of very choice footmen.

On the contrary, notwithstanding that the number of souldiers in the Imperi∣all campe was not inferiour to the French, their valour neuerthelesse was much [ 30] diminished, as well by the great sicknesse, as by the disorder and excesse which they had for the space of many monthes committed, whereby their bodies and mindes being become weake and effeminate, had in a manner lost all their vsuall brauery: and besides, those souldiers beeing wont to liue at pleasure, with an extraordinary liberty, did no more obserue as they ought martiall discipline. Moreouer, Lautrec was much stronger then the enemy in cauallery and prouision of ordnance, whereby it seemeth that he did not without cause perswade himselfe to obtaine the victory, and to conquer that whole State.

The Imperiall army hauing intelligence that Lautrec approached, came forth of Troy, and hauing possest a little hill which rised towards the plaine, did their [ 40] encampe and fortifie it selfe. Lautrec beeing come neere therevnto, placed his souldiers in order of battaile, determining (notwithstanding that the Venetian* 1.829 and Florentine troupes were not arriued) to fight with them and to offer battaile, defying and prouoking them by his ordnance which plaied vpon their campe. But the Imperials receiuing small hurt by the shot, in regard of the sy∣tuation of the place wherein they were, and resoluing not to fight, keeping them∣selues within their rampiers and fortifications, sent forth onely some light-horse and a few Harguebuziers to skirmish with the French, who marching still for∣ward came and lodged hard by the enemies campe, which they did indanger by their artillery, those that were come forth to skirmish not beeing able to hinder [ 50] Lautrec from comming forwards, wherevpon the enemies determined to dis∣lodge, and to goe and encampe on the farther side of Troy towards Nocera: where hauing within a while after intelligence that Horacio Baillone with the Florentine troupes was come to the campe of the league, and that Camillo Vrsino

and the Prouidator Pisani, would arriue there the morrow after; they resolued to* 1.830 depart forth of Abruzzo, and to march directly towards Naples, according to their first deseigne; chiefly to defend that City as the principall of the whole State.

The Lord Lautrec being out of hope to enforce the enemies to fight, who had already so openly refused it, conuerted all his deseignes to make himselfe Master of the country, and not to leaue any enemy towne behinde him, before that he would march to Naples. Wherevpon hauing intelligence that the Prince of* 1.831 Melfi, had entred Melfi with great numbers of souldiers, he sent Pedro of Nauarre thither with his Gascon companies, and Baillone with the blacke bands and two [ 10] Cannons, who hauing battered it, they tooke and •…•…acked it.

At the same time the Prouidator Pisan•…•… with two thousand Venetian foot∣men* 1.832 tooke the towne of Ascoli, and then he came and ioyned with Lautrec, vnto whom were yeelded Barletta, Trany and diuers others townes neere adioyning, some of them being mooued therevnto by the feare of the disaster of Melfi, and others by a particular affection which they did beare to the French, being weary of the Spanish gouernment, so as there was no other towne in all Puglia that held for the Emperour but only Mansredonia. Wherevpon Lautrec hauing left for the beseeging of that City and for the gard of those that he had conque∣red, the Venetian troupes, which were in all two thousand foot-men, an hundred [ 20] men at armes, and two hundred light horse, he marched in great speed with the residue of the army towards Naples, all places thorow which he passed, yeelding vnto him.

Being come to Caforia, three miles from Naples vpon the high way to Auer∣sa,* 1.833 hee determined to encampe there, as the onely meanes to make himselfe Ma∣ster thereof, and for that purpose caused his army to march directly towards the City, betwixt Pog•…•…o Royall and Saint Martins Mount, the companies exten∣ding themselues within halfe a mile of Naples, and the Lord Lautrec in person was* 1.834 gonne somewhat farther then Pogio royall, to the Duke of Montalto his Farme, [ 30] where he fortified himselfe.

At the same time, the Venetians nauall army hauing beene refreshed and re∣stored at Corfou, after the losse that it susteined by tempest neere to the Isle of Sardinia, was come along the coast of Puglia, being sixteene Gallies in num∣ber, vnder the conduct of Iohn Mora the Prouidator, because that Petro Land•…•… Ge∣nerall of the Venetian gallies was gonne into Candy, to appease certaine trou∣bles of the country men in the streight of La Canea.

Now by the agreement and conuention of the league, sixe cities of Puglia* 1.835 were appointed to the Signory of Venice, namely, Ottranto, Brundusium, Mono∣poli, Po•…•…ignane, Mol•…•…, and Trani, which it had in times past enioyed, and there∣fore [ 40] the Venetians hauing, besides the Gallies, diuers other armed vessels, did with greater courage pursue the conquest of those townes, being assured, be∣sides their owne strength, of the loue and goodwill of the Inhabitants, who did infinitely wish for them, wherevpon so soone as the army approched, Monopo∣li and Trani yeelded to them, the rest making shew to doe the like, so soone as oc∣casion* 1.836 should be offered.

But the Lord Lautrec hauing solicited the Venetian captaines to come and ioyne their gallies with Philippine Doria at the seege of Naples, they were en∣forced to giue ouer their enterprize, they being enioyned to follow his comman∣dements: for Philippin Doria was come before Naples with eight gallies onely, to keepe victuals from entring into the City by sea, but fearing least the beseeged [ 50] sallying forth vpon him, he might be defeated, in regard he had no greater forces, the arriuall of the Venetian gallies would assure him and more straightly shut in those of the City.

At this stay stood the affaires of the Kingdom of Naples whilest the Venetians

were elsewhere busied with alarmes, because that Henry Duke of Brunswich, af∣ter a great report of his comming, being solicited by the Emperour and his bro∣ther* 1.837 Ferdinand to passe into Italy, had entred Lombardy to diuert the Confede∣rates forces from the enterprize of the Realme of Naples, the which being redu∣ced to great extremity, hee could not so speedily releeue as by this meanes, The Duke of Brunswich then being come to Trent, he entred Lombardy by the Veronois territory, leading along with him about twelue thousand foot-men, saying that he would ioyne with Antonio de Leua, who was already come forth into the field with eight thousand foot-men, that they two beeing ioyned to∣gether might goe and assaile the Cities belonging to the State of Venice, a∣gainst [ 10] whom Brunswich had denounced warre, and had with a vaine and redicu∣lous proposition challenged Andre Gritti Duke of Venice to a single fight, who* 1.838 was a man of fourescore yeeres of age.

The Venetians, resoluing to defend themselues, concluded to raise twelue thousand foot-men, amongst whom were foure thousand Swisses, vnto whom they speedily sent money into Swisserland, and intreated the French King by his authority to fauour that leauy: they had besides, great numbers of light∣horse from Greece and Dalmatia: then they recalled the Duke of Vrbin from the Marches of Ancona, and commanded him to visit all their townes and fortes of most importance, to prouide them of strong garrisons, and to take order [ 20] for whatsoeuer hee should thinke necessary for their seruice, safety, and defense: they appointed afterwards, diuers Gentlemen, to command their principall cities. Ieronimo Diede was sent to Treuiso with an hundred and fifty footmen, Pedro Sagreda with like number to Padua, to Verona went Zachary Doria, Phi∣lippo Correrio, Alessandro Donato, Ambrosio Contaren, Iosepho Badoario, Lo∣renzo Sanuto, Augustino Canall, and Almore Barbaro, each of them with fiue and twenty souldiers with them to looke to the gates and other important places of the city.

In the meane time, vpon these newes great warlike preparations were made in France to send into Italy, of whom the Count of Saint Pol was made Ge∣nerall, [ 30] * 1.839 who was of the house of Bourbon, to the end to follow the Duke of Bruns∣wich, if hee should passe on into the Realme of Naples, if not, to make warre on the Dutchy of Milan, together with the companies of the Venetians & those of Fran∣cis Sforza. But all these preparations did little auaile by reason of their late com∣ming. For the Duke of Brunswich beeing followed with his owne forces de∣termined to assaile certaine cities belonging to the Venetians, being the rather mooued therevnto, because that at his arriuall, Pescara, Reuotella, and certaine other townes vpon the Lake of La Garda, had yeelded to him. The Duke of Vrbin, who had put himselfe into Verona, hauing still an eye vpon Brunswich,* 1.840 did preuent his deseignes, and went sodainely to Bressia, where hee strengthened [ 40] the Garrison, then from thence hee went to Bergamo, into which hee caused great numbers of the people of those Vallies to enter, who were very faith∣full and trusty to the Venetians, and with a wonderfull celerity, hee caused the city to bee encompassed with great trenches, making it thereby defensible, then, giuing very many trauerses and molestations to the enemies, by cutting off victuals and many other commodities from them, the Duke of Brunswich des∣payring of beeing able to execute any notable enterprize, after that hee had (according to their barbarous custome) spoiled the country, and burned sun∣dry faire buildings to leaue some memory of himselfe behinde, hee departed without any other great exploit forth of the Venetian State, and came vpon [ 50] that of Milan, where he met with Antonio de Leua, who vpon report of his com∣ming had passed ouer the Riuer Adda to ioyne with him, that they might afterwards execute some great enterprize, and hauing repassed the Adda, they went and encamped before Lauda, forth of which the Duke of Milan was

newly departed, beeing aduertized of the enemies comming, and was come to Bressia, by the consent of the Senate, hauing left a suffitient number of souldiers in Lauda, with Iohn Paul Sforza, his naturall brother, to command there, who be∣ing assailed by the enemies, did valliantly receiue and repulse them.

By means whereof, Brunswick finding himself without means to entertain such an army any long time, and beeing frustrate of his hope to returne home la∣den with glory and spoile, not determyning to go on any farther towards Naples, (as at the beginning hee had purposed, hee tooke his iourney towards the Lake* 1.841 of Coma, to returne into Germany: hee was pursued at the heeles by the Count Gaiazzo and Mercurio Bue, who comming forth of Bergamo gaue in vpon his [ 10] rereward.

The report of the Lansequenets departure did greatly afflict the beseeged Neapolitans, loosing thereby all hope of succours, on whom it seemed that their whole safety did depend: because that not long before they had with bad suc∣cesse assailed the Gallies of Phillipine Doria, supposing to open to themselues the passage by sea, seeing that by land was wholly shut from them, Lautrec ha∣uing taken Pozzuolo and the places neere adioyning, by which great aboun∣dance of victualls came to Naples; which was the cause that before the Vene∣tians* 1.842 Gallies arriued, they were desirous to tempt fortune, and to free them∣selues of the stumbling block by sea, by breaking Phillippine Doria, who with the [ 20] Gallies lay in the Gulph of Salerno.

They manned sixe Gallies, foure Fusts, and two Brigantines, with a thousand* 1.843 Spanish Harquebuziers of the choisest and most valliant of the army, with whom went along Don Hugo the Viceroy, and almost all the chiefe captaines and men of authority. To these vessels were added diuers fisher-boates, to a∣maze the enemies a farre off, by the shew of a greater number of vessels. All these Lords beeing ioyfully embarked, as if they had beene going to a triumph, came to the Isle of Capri: from thence, leauing the Cape of Minerua, on their left hand, they came into the maine •…•…ea and sent two Gallies before; who were commanded, that so soone as they should come neere the enemies, to make shew [ 30] * 1.844 of flight, to the end to draw them forth to fight at sea, hoping to take them with ease: But the matter fell out otherwise, for Phillipine Doria beeing aduertized the day before by trusty spies of the enemies determination, had with great speed and secrecy drawne three hundred Harquebuziers from Lautrec, then so soone as hee discouered the enemies fleet a farre off, making towards it, he was at the first somewhat doubtfull, in regard of the great number of vessels that hee discouered, but beeing soone freed of that scruple, when he perceiued that there were but sixe vessels onely; hee caused three gallies of his owne to keepe a∣loose, as though they had ment to flie, to the end that by returning, with a very faire winde, they might giue in vpon the enemies broad sides, and himselfe with [ 40] fiue Gallic•…•… went forward to meet them, who were commanded to discharge their ordnance vpon him, to take away, by the smoake, both his sight and aime: but Phillippin beeing quicker then they, gaue fire to a very great Basilisk in his owne Galley, which strooke the Admirall Galley wherein the Viceroy was, who with diuers others were therewith slaine, then hee discharged all his other shot, which did hurt and kill diuers.

The enemies shot on the other side slue some, but not very many: then comming neere to one an other, they beganne with Harguebuzes and o∣ther weapons a very fierce fight, which lasted along while, till such time as the* 1.845 three first Gallies, which seemed to flie towardes the maine sea, returning [ 50] vpon the enemies, strooke the Admirall Galley vpon the broade side, and sunke two others, two were taken by Doria, and two others, which had beene sore beaten, committed themselues to •…•…light, perceiuing that the enemies were victorious.

There dyed at this incounter of cheefe Commanders, Don Hugo the Viceroy,* 1.846 and Caesar Fieramosea, with more then a thousand men of the ordinary compa∣nies: there were taken prisoners, the Marquis of Guasto, Ascanio Colonna, the Prince of Salerno, Santa Cruz, Camillo Colonna, Gobba Serenon, and diuerse other Captaines and Gentlemen; whereby the Citty of Naples was bereft of her best and brauest defendants.

During these exploits at sea, Petro Lande, Generall of the Venetians sea-ar∣my,* 1.847 arriued before Naples with twenty Galleys, who came from Puglia, where hee had taken the sixe Citties belonging to the Venetians. His arriuall did greatly profit the French, and annoy the enemies, because that hauing left sixe [ 10] Galleys at Gayetta, and as many at Cumes: hee with the residue, scowred all places neere to Naples, did shutte the sea from the besieged, suffering nothing to enter into the Citty, and stopt their passage, who were come foorth of the Towne to runne vp and downe along the Sea side, who durst not returne for feare of the shotte of the Venetian Galleis, he did beside seaze on diuers places where their mills stood, whither those of the Citty did vse to send their corne to be ground, whereby they were enforced to vse hand▪ mills, or to eate their graine beeing vn-grownd, which was distributed vnto them foorth of the munition.

Besides, it did greatly serue for the safe and more easie bringing of victualls to [ 20] the Army, which came f•…•…om sea, whereof there was great scarcity, as well by rea∣son of the great nomber of vnprofitable eaters that were there, as of the great dearth which was then generally ouer all Italy, and likewise in regard of the small care of the Captaines.* 1.848

At the same time, the Lord of Barbezieuz, being come from France to Sauona with money for to pay the Army, and hauing sent it by sea into the kingdome, great difficulties were made for the bringing it to the Campe: the Lord Lautrec sendeth forces to the sea-side to receiue the money, but the Gallies beeing not able to come to land, by reason of the working of the Sea, the Marquis of Sa∣lusses returned the day following with his Lances, and a strong band of Gas∣cons, [ 30] Suisses, Lansquenets, and of the black-bands: Wherevpon at their returne they mette with the Imperialls, who were come foorth of Naples in great troopes to assaile them, and to take away the money, who were valiantly re∣pulsed* 1.849 by Valerio Vrsino with the Venetian troopes, and by Hugo de Pepoli Captaine of the Florentines, to their great losse and hurt, but Hugo de Peopli hauing too farre pursued the runne-awayes, was within an Harquebuze shotte of the Battaillon of the black-bands taken prisoner by the Imperiall horse-men.

Hithervnto had the affaires of the league prospered, with hope of giuing a* 1.850 speedy end to the warre, by the conquest of the Realme of Naples: but within [ 40] a while after, euident signes began to appeare, not of the declination of their good fortune, but of their entire ruine, fortune in a manner declaring that shee could no longer fauour the affaires of the French in Italy. For the Armie was afflicted with diuerse sodaine diseases, sundry occasions occurring, as first of all, the celestiall influence, which the same yeare had in diuerse places caused contagious sicknesse: next, their aboade there in the moneth of August, when as the Soldiors liuing carelesly, did greedily and in aboundance eate of all manner of fruites: but that which did most hurt them, was the waters, which beeing for diuerse moneths turned foorth of their ordinary channells, and courses, had well neere drowned the whole Counttey round about, and infected [ 50] the ayre.

The Lord Lautrec being greatly troubled by these difficulties, & either enfor∣ced to continue the siege with these discomodities, or else to enlarge his troopes

farther of, was councelled by all the Captaines, to send the soldiers into the terri∣tories* 1.851 neere at hand, and by separating them in that manner, to take from the dis∣ease, which was already become contagious, the cause of any greater progression, and giue meanes to the diseased to heale and to looke to themselues. But that which did most of all torment the Lord Lautrec, was, for that hee perceiued the victory, which hee had almost obtained, to be snacht foorth of his hands, and that by enlarging his troopes, hee knew very well that the Imperialls, who had great numbers of horse to send abroad, and finding no resistance at all, would haue meanes to prouide for all their discommodities. Hee vnderstood dayly how that Simon Roman, whom hee had sent into Calabria, had fortunate successe, that all [ 10] those people hauing a particular inclination to the French, did yeeld vnto him: that the townes and Hauens of Puglia, were in the hands of the Venetians: that Abruzzo was from the beginning at the deuotion of the French: that the Spa∣niards were already in a manner driuen forth of the whole kingdome: and yet neuerthelesse, that all these happy conquests would turne to nothing, if by tem∣porising they should giue any relaxation to those of Naples, who were already reduced to great extremity, and lose the occasion of taking that Citty, whereon depended, the good or bad successe of that enterprise.

Besides, hee was ashamed to see the Spaniards, who were afflicted with gree∣uous diseases and discommodities, should constantly beare them, without endu∣ring [ 20] any speech of yeelding; whereas the French at the first touch of aduerse fortune did strike sayle, and seemed to bee ouer-come by the vanquished. Hauing* 1.852 afterwards receiued a farre lesse summe of money out of France then hee ex∣pected, or was needfull for the paiment of the Army, hee dispaired of beeing able any longer to entertaine it. But that which did most of all torment him was, to see himselfe to bee constrained to enforce his owne nature, beeing not wont willingly to heare nor esteeme an other mans opinion, and least of all to giue ouer a resolution which hee had once taken: Wherevpon notwithstanding that occasion was dayly offered to change his minde, and to fitte himselfe to time, yet for all that hee would neuer consent to discampe, nor suffer any man to depart [ 30] thence, vntill that extreame necessitie enforced him to doe that which reason might haue perswaded him to; because that meane soldiers alone did not dayly dye, but the very cheefe of the Army, and among others, Lodouico Pisani, and* 1.853 Petro Pesare the Venetian Prouidators, and the Earle of Vandemont within a while after: diuerse beeing stricken with the contagion, retired to Gayetta and to other places.

In the meane time, a new accident did more trouble him then all the rest, and caused him wholy to despaire of any fortunate enterprise, which was, the deter∣mination* 1.854 of Andrè Doria, who beeing male-content with the French, had for∣saken the Kings seruice, and entred into the Emperours pay. The cause thereof [ 40] was attributed, as well by himselfe as by others, to diuerse subiects, and chiefly to a disdaine which hee conceiued in his minde, because that the King did not e∣steeme of him according to his merrits, not granting vnto him the office of Ad∣mirall, which was then vacant, and giuen to the Lord of Barbezieuz: That the* 1.855 King would not satisfie his iust request, to yeeld vnto the Genowais the accusto∣med soueraignty of Sauona.

Sundry signes appearing of this discontent, the Pope had some suspition thereof; Wherevpon hee aduertised the King of it, perswading him to make more deere account of such a man then hee had done, who was able to doe much for the furtherance of the seruice of the league, and not to suffer him to [ 50] depart mal-content with such forces, to the Emperors seruice. But the French King suspecting at the same time all the Popes actions, his councell could no∣thing preuaile with him. Yet neuerthelesse finding it to bee true afterwards, and

perceiuing the matter to be of importance, knowing no meanes how to preuent it, or else beeing peraduenture willing to be freed from such expence, he councel∣led the Pope to giue him entertainement, in regard of his great desire to serue th•…•… Church, rather then to suffer him to go to the Emperors side. The Pope seeming* 1.856 to be desirous of it, and yet not willing to displease the Emperor, excused him∣selfe by reason of his owne small meanes, adding that so soone as by the Kings helpe hee should recouer Rauenna and Ceruia, hee might then more freely, be at greater expence.

Doria in the meane time without longer dissembling that which he had deter∣mined* 1.857 to do, sent one of his Gentlemen to the Emperor, in whose Court the Ar∣ticles [ 10] of agreement betwixt them were resolued on: which were, The Liberty of Genoa vnder the Emperors protection: The Subiection of Sauona to the Geno∣•…•…ois, and the entring of the said Doria into the Emperors pay with twelue Gallels, and a yeerely pention of threescore thousand Ducats.

This reuolt of Doria did greatly hinder the Confederates, and mightily preiu∣dice the enterprise of Naples, because that the Venetian Gallies, remaining alone,* 1.858 were enforced to retire their Rowers or Gally-slaues, which wrought in the tren∣ches, to looke to the businesse at Sea: and the Admirall Barbizieux on the other side beeing come from France with sixteene Gallies, tarried at Sauona, (not da∣ring to saile to Naples) where he landed a great part of the footmen to send them [ 20] for the gard of Genoa, albeit they were appointed to goe to the succour of the Lord Lautrec: so as from this accident proceeded all the mishap of the seege of Naples, and the losse of the leagues reputation.

As also because that the Lord Lautrec could neuer make vse in time of those for∣ces which Ranc•…•… d•…•… Cera had at Ciuitauechia, by reason of the Popes different and vncertaine resolutions, who (beeing solicited by the Lord Lautrec with huge and in a manner menacing speeches, and afterwards with gentle and courteous lan∣guage to declare himselfe, promising to restore those of his family in Florence) would neuer make any certaine resolution; euer saying, that as one zealous of the common good, peace was his chiefe ayme and obiect, the which, with more [ 30] safety, and lesse suspition to treat of, he would remaine neuter, although the con∣trary appeared by sundry apparent signes, that he did more encline to the Empe∣rors side, then to any other: but because he would not vrge the Lord Lautrec to prooue an open enemy, he answered, that to declare himselfe, would nothing auaile them, in regard (as he had oftentimes said) that he had not sufficient forces for any great enterprize.

That the most Christian King might neuerthelesse make vse of the Churches State, and of the commodities thereof, without renewing vpon that occasion the Confederacy. By this meanes the French forces were daily weakned, and disor∣ders and discommodities encreased in the Campe: and the beseeged on the con∣trary, [ 40] were in hope of good successe.

The aid from France, which had been so often craued of the King, and which his* 1.859 maiesty had so often promised, did not arriue, and the troopes raised in the King∣dome of Naples were not sufficient to fill vp the army, nor to supply the want of the military factions, the Campe standing in need of all thinges, because that the enemies Cauallery sallying forth many times to surprise the victualls, which was brought to the Campe from the neighbor townes, the Army in steed of besee∣ging was little better then beseeged.

In a word discomodities did so encrease, as there was noe one company in the whole army, but had great store of sicke persons in it. The soldiers were become [ 50] lazie and idle, and throwing their armes from them, obserued no order, discipline,* 1.860 nor any obedience, especially the men at armes who beeing disbanded without their Captaines leaue, did forsake the Campe: the Captaines likewise, were partly absent farre from thence, to cause them-selues to be healed, and to

recouer their healths, and part of them also liued vnprofitably in the Campe, beeing weake and ill disposed of their persons. But among others, the Lord Lautrec was very sick, beeing spent as well in minde as body, for the great danger that hee perceiued the Armie to bee in: Wherevpon, his owne fault en∣creasing the sorrow and griefe of his heart, made him for the space of many dayes vnable to giue order for the affaires of the warre.

But beeing come to himselfe, and a little recouering his spirits, hee began to* 1.861 visit the whole Campe, to preserue order and the Guardes, fearing to be assailed. Matters did dayly decline, so as by reason of the strength of the Imperials horse∣men, there was no more commerce betwixt the Campe and the Galleys, and [ 10] those of the Campe, because they had no horse, could not runne forth of the wayes: But that which did aggrauate all the disorders, was the death of the* 1.862 Lord Lautrec, vpon whose valour and authoritie all matters relyed, and it was certainly thought, that his disease encreased by too much trauaile.

The end of the seuenth Booke of the fifth Decade.

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

THE Marquis of Salusses beeing made [ 20] Generall of the French Army, by the death of the Lord Lautrec, raiseth his Campe, from before Naples, and retireth to Auer∣sa. The taking of Auersa, and the Mar∣quis by the Imperialls. The Citty of Genoa reuolteth from the French King, by the meanes of Andre Doria. The determi∣nation of the Confederates to goe and be∣siege [ 30] Milan is broken. Pauia is taken by the Confederates. Nouara with diuerse other places, are yeelded to the Confederates. The Lord of Saint Paul his iourney to recouer Genoa, is in vaine. The Castle of Genoa is raced by the people. The Genowais fill vp the Hauen of Sauona with grauell. The Pope demandeth the Citties of Rauenna and Ceruia of the Venetians. A treaty of peace held at Rome, but to no purpose. The great warlike preparations of the Archduke of Au∣stria to send into Italy to the Emperors ayde. The Venetians lend money to [ 40] the French, and to the Duke of Milan. The French King resolueth to make warre vpon the Emperour on the frontiers of Spaine. The Vene∣tians solicit the King to come in person into Italy. The Imperialls recouer Aquila and Matricia. The Marquis of Guasto besiegeth Monopoli. Brun∣dusium is yeelded to the Venetians. An allarme beeing giuen to the Duke of Vrbin, hee runneth to the defence of his owne state. An enterview of the French and Venetian Armies. The defeate and taking of the Count Saint Paul by Antonio de Leua. The Duke of Vrbins retreate to Cassan. The [ 50] Duke of Vrbin defeateth a part of the enemies at the passage of a Riuer. Antonio de Leua retireth to Milan. The Venetian Senate are male-con∣tent

with the King. The Emperors arriuall at Genoa. The Emperors great forces in Italy. The Florentines send Ambassadors to the Emperor. The great warlike preparations of the Venetians. Peace concluded at Cambray betwixt the Emperor and the King. The King is very earnest with the Emperor to make an accord with the Venetians. And lastly, a new con∣federacie betwixt the Venetians and Francis Sforza Duke of Milan.

[ 10]

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

THE Lord Lautrec beeing dead, Michaele An∣tonio* 1.863 Marquis of Salusses a couragious Lord, and well beloued of the Soldiors, tooke vpon him the charge of the Armie in a manner ru∣ined, who beeing councelled to discampe, not so much for the present state of their affaires, as for the danger and necessity that pressed [ 30] him, gathered together those forces that re∣mained, and retired with small losse to Auersa, expecting succours from Rance de Cera. Vpon his retreate, the Imperialls comming foorth of Naples, gaue in vpon his rereward: but by reason of his good order, the losse was not great. Certaine French troopes were broken, and Pedro of Nauarre beeing ta∣ken prisoner was ledde to Naples, where hee dyed.

The Marquis beeing come to Auersa, was neerely pursued by the Imperialls,* 1.864 and beeing not able to make defence, hee sent the Count Ouy de Rangone to par∣ley [ 40] with the Prince of Orange the Imperialls Generall, with whom it was capi∣tulated, That the Marquis should quit Auersa, with the Castle, Artillery, and* 1.865 Munition: That as well himselfe, as the other Captaines, should remaine priso∣ners, except the Count Guy, who treated particularly for himselfe: That the Mar∣quis should doe his vtmost to cause the French and Venetians to render vp the kingdome, with diuerse other conuentions which made this French Armie mise∣rable, who of vanquishers became vanquished, to the Venetians great greefe and discontent, whose fortune for the kingdome of Naples, was, to depend on that of the French their friends and consederates.

This losse was accompanied by a very greeuous and most preiudicious acci∣dent [ 50] * 1.866 to the league, and of great importance to the French, which caused great strife betwixt them: for, the plague beeing very great in Genoa, and by reason thereof in a manner forsaken by all men, and likewise by the soldiers, and namely

by Theodore •…•…riuulcio the Gouernor, who retired into the Castle: Anare 〈◊〉〈◊〉 making vse of this occasion, came neere to the Citty with certaine Galleys, and those few soldiors that hee had, which did not exceed the number of fiue hun∣dred footmen, not hoping neuerthelesse to performe that which hee afterward did, and entring it without any great resistance, by the fauour of the people, who were greatly delighted with the name of liberty, which hee promised them, be∣came maister thereof, where on a sodaine hee changed the manner of gouern∣ment vnder the Emperors protection.

It lay not in Triuulcio his power to hinder it, who beeing come to the Citty but a while before, had much to doe to escape into the Castle, hoping, (as hee [ 10] said) vpon the artiuall of succours to bee able at his pleasure to enter the Cit∣ty, and to reduce it to the Kings deuotion, as it had beene in time before. For hee sent to the Lord Saint Paul, to send him speedily three thousand footmen, by whose ayde hee hoped to recouer the Citty: Wherevpon the Captaines of the Confederates did determine, That the Lord of Montilan should turne to Ge∣noa with three thousand Lansquenets and Suisses, which came from France, and were already arriued at Alexandria.

The Senate in the meane time, did not cease to giue order for necessary pro∣uisions,* 1.867 for the speedy renewing of the warre in Lombardy, and for that they would not giue Antonio de Leua any time to make preparations they solicited [ 20] one an other speedily to take armes: they sent the Secretary André Rossi into France, to hasten the forces which were to come into Italy: they did besides, command the Duke of Vrbin to receiue all those Almaines into their pay, which had forsaken the Duke of Brunswich, hauing more-ouer sent to Iuree, money for the payment of fiue thousand Lansquenets: so as the Republick had in a very* 1.868 short space, more then tenne thousand footmen of sundry nations, Almaines, Suisses, and Italians, fifteene hundred light horse, and eight hundred men at armes, with which forces, and those of the French beeing ioyned together, they did hope to driue Antonio de Leua forth of Italy.

The Duke of Vrbins chiefe purpose was to place a strong Garrison in Lauda, [ 30] * 1.869 beeing a place of great importance for the Duke of Milan, and for the Vene∣tians likewise, because the keeping there of did greatly auaile for the assurance of Bergamo and Crema: and then to passe the Po so soone as the French succours should beginne to come vpon the Alpes to ioyne with the French, and after∣wards to goe and assaile Antonio de Leua. For▪ the supplyes of siue thousand footmen, and fiue hundred Lances, & as many light horse, which were expected, beeing arriued, the Duke of Vrbin talked with the Count Saint Paul at Mon∣ticella on the Po, to consult in what manner they were to proceed in this warre for the profit and commodity of the common cause.

The Duke of Vrbin by the aduise of the Senate, propounded to employ their [ 40] whole forces in Lombardy, to driue Antonio de Leua, if it were possible, foorth of the State of Milan, to the end to cut off all meanes from the Imperialls of sending downe any ayde by that way into Italy forth of Germany, and of hauing victuals from thence for the feeding of their Armie as they were wont.* 1.870 The Lord Saint Paul, and the other French Captaines were of a contrary opinion, saying▪ That it was not fitte to abandon the affaires of Naples, vnlesse they should loose their honour and reputation both with the people and the enemies, propounding besides, how important a matter it was to keepe the Im∣perialls busied in the kingdome of Naples, who by that meanes could not come and ioyne with Antonio •…•…e Leua. [ 50]

In this diuersitie of opinions, a way was found to content both parties: namely, not altogether to abandon the affaires of Naples, and yet to make the cheefe attempts in Lombardy.

For, the Confederates, possessing diuerse and sundry places in Puglia, where the people did greatly affect the French and Venetians; it was resolued to re-en∣force those troops that they had there, to trie if they could aduance the businesse any better, and keepe the Imperiall Captaines amuzed and in feare: and for that purpose the Senate wrote to the Prouidator of their nauall Armie, that he should carry his vessels into Puglia, and to place strong garrisons in those townes which held for the Signory and for the French, and then to besiege the Castle of Brun∣dusium: and that on the other side, the Prince of Melfi, and Rance de Cera, should passe ouer into those parts with fiue thousand footmen, whom the Venetians should furnish with vessels for their passage. [ 10]

But as concerning Lombardy, and the state of Milan, they resolued, (the forces there beeing compleate) to goe and besiege the citty of Milan, and to this end all* 1.871 the troopes beeing come as farre as Landriane, the Captaines were of an other opinion, hee that was sent to discouer the Citty hauing told them, that such an enterprise could haue no fortunate successe: Wherevpon they determined to goe and encampe before Pauia, the which they hoped to take with ease, because there were no more then two hundred Lansquenets, and eight hundred Italians in it, and both the armies beeing by sundry wayes come neere to Pauia, they en∣camped round about it, and hauing planted on the hither side of the Riuer The∣sin, in the plaine on the lower side of the Citty, nine Cannons, they plaid in such [ 20] * 1.872 sort vpon a bastion neere to the Arsenall, that in a short space it was halfe ruined, and on the farther side of Thesin, three Cannons to batter, (when they should goe to the assault,) a Flanqueer right opposite to the Arsenall, and vpon a little hill on the hither side Thesin fiue Cannons, which did batter two other bastions, and at the foote of the hill three others which plaid vpon the wall, all which ordnance belonged to the Venetians: and that of the Lord Saint Paul serued for the beating downe of the fortifications.

After a sufficient battery in sundry places, and so soone as they had drawne the water foorth of the Dikes, they went to the assault, where for two houres space those within the towne did valiantly defend it, but their number beeing [ 30] too small to susteine such an assault, those of the league did at the last enter it with very small losse, and with great honor to the Duke of Vrbin: seauen hun∣dred* 1.873 souldiors of the towne were slaine, the residue escaped into the Castle with Galeas de Biraga the Citties Gouernor, and diuerse of the inhabitants, who yeelded soone after vpon composition, the Citty was wholy sackt, but of no great valew; in regard of the two former.

The taking of Pauia did procure to the league great contentment and no∣table reputation, not onely in regarde of that Citty, but because that Nouara,* 1.874 and diuerse other neighbour townes did within a while after, yeeld, to the great losse and discommodity of the enemies, who from thence had aboundance of [ 40] victuals for the reliefe of their Army in Milan. The Venetian Senate beeing wonderfull ioyfull of such happy successe, promised to it selfe, that it might bee able to recouer all those disastrous mishaps susteined before Naples, and in re∣gard heereof it did infinitely thanke and extoll the Lord Saint Paul, intreating and exhorting him to goe forward as hee had begunne, hoping that vnder his conduct they should bee able to recouer not onely the State of Milan, but the kingdome of Naples.

The newes of the losse of Genoa beeing in the meane time brought into France, did greatly greeue the King, who speedily sent commandement to the Lord Saint Paul, that all other Commissions beeing layde apart, hee [ 50] should march to Genoa, to attempt the reducin•…•… thereof vnder his obedi∣ence: For the three thousand footmen appointed for the releefe thereof not going thither, because they wanted their pay, Tri•…•…lcio was in great distresse,

protesting that if he were not speedily releeued he must of force yeeld himselfe:* 1.875 wherby, the affaires of the league, which beganne to prosper, did afterwards fall into great dsfficulties: because that as the commoditie of conquering Milan did present it selfe by the reputation of the taking of Pauia, and by the discomodity which Antonio de Leua his army endured, where for the effecting thereof it bee∣hooued all the forces to be brought together, with two Camps to assaile and shut in so great a Citty; they were constrained to giue ouer all, the Lord Saint Paul hauing bent all his thoughtes and deseignes to releeue Genoa, wherevpon, he did not only refuse to goe to the enterprise of Milan, but did sollicite the Duke of Vrbin to goe along with him thither with the Venetian forces for the recouery [ 10] of it, wherevnto the Senate would not consent, because that by sending their for∣ces so farre off, they should not only loose all the fruit of the Victory, and put the Duke of Milan into dispaire, but expose the Citty of Bergamo and other townes of their owne State to great dangers.

Persisting then both the one and the other in their opinion, the French Army seperated it selfe, and passed ouer the Po at Stella, to march through Tuscany to Genoa, and the Venetians Campe, by the Senates aduise, retired to Pauia, to fa∣uor, with the reputation thereof, the affaires of Genoa, (it beeing in the meane time in safety), and to excute like-wise what so-euer occasion would [ 20] present.

But the enterprize of the Lord Saint Paul had no fortunate successe, who fin∣ding* 1.876 Genoa to be mand with a strong garrison, and hauing in his owne army but two thousand footmen, beeing out of hope to obtaine that which he desired by tarrying any longer there, notwithstanding that he had made his approaches neere to the Citty, determined to returne into Lombardy to spend the winter time, where by the consent of Sforza he did put himselfe into the Citty of Alex∣andria.

Now Trinulcio in the meane time hauing notice of his departure, and ex∣pecting ayd from no place else, resolued to yeeld the Castle, as he did, the which* 1.877 was forthwith raced to the ground by the People to take away that hinderance of [ 30] their liberty.

The Citty of Sauona like-wise, where-into the Lord of Monteian (sent thither with his forces to releeue it) could not enter, returned vnder the Geno∣waies* 1.878 Gouernment, who on a sodaine filled the hauen thereof with stones and grauell to make it vnseruiceable.

The Venetians perceiuing that the French King did openly shew himselfe to be displeased with them, because that the Duke of Vrbin, with their forces, did not goe to the releefe of Triuulcio, were very desirous for his satisfaction to reuiue the enterprize of Genoa, as also for their owne commodity, because they ac∣counted that Citty to be very conuenient for the affaires of the league, beeing [ 40] as it were the only Gate of Italy through which the Spaniards might enter by Sea to molest them, and therfore they wished that it were at the deuotion of the French King their friend, and especially at that time, when the report was that the Emperor was in person cōming into Italy, wherevpon they secretly exhorted the Genowaies, to returne againe vnder the protection of the most Christian King, as of a most mighty and meeke Prince: For they could not at that time execute their desire by open force, as well for the place where they wintered, the which was very sharpe and difficult in Winter, as for the small number of their army which was much diminished by sundry accidents: and albeit they were aduertized of the great scarcity of victuals in Milan, how that Antonio [ 50] * 1.879 de leua lay sick, and his Army much weakened, all which were goodly occasions where on •…•…o enterprize some great and notable exploit, they durst not for all that in regard of the smalnesse of their forces goe forth into the field to execute

any thing, beeing in feare likewise of the discommodities that commonly grow in winter.

The Venetians were else where in great care for the townes which they posses∣sed in Puglia, which at all times both in peace and wa•…•…re were very commodious for them: they held Trani and Monopoli, and the French Barletta: the others* 1.880 beeing abandoned, these were kept, and yet not without great difficulty, since the route of the French Army, by the dilligence of the Prouidator Vitturi, who beeing aduertised at the siege of Mansridonia where hee lay, of the disaster before Naples▪ hee sent speedily by Sea a certaine number of footmen into garrison into those townes, to keepe them in th•…•…ir duty. Camillo Vrsino lay in Trani, and Gioua•…•…∣ni [ 10] Conrado Vrsino in Monopoli, and Rance de Cera, who was the Kings Lieutenant in the Prouince, was retired to Barletta.

The Venetians then beeing very carefull to keepe those places, and hoping to bee able not onely to resist the enemy, and to keepe the warre farre from their owne State, but likewise to make some progression, in regard of the enemies letts, determined to send reliefe thither, as well of victuals, and all sorts of munitions, as of Soldiors, by encreasing the Garrison with sixe hundred footmen leuyed in Dalmatia in the middest of Winter by the Prouidator Mula, who hauing brought them into Puglia, went back on a sodaine with his Galleis to Cor•…•…ou, there to repaire and encrease the nauall Army, to the end afterwards to ioyne it [ 20] with that of the French King, which was making ready at Marseilles, that both of them together might oppose themselues against the Imperialls sea-forces, which were reported to bee very great at Barcelona, and were comming to ioyne with those of Doria.

The Pope in the meane time continuing his former pursutes, concerning the rendring of the Citties of Rauenna and Ceruia, caused the French King to* 1.881 send the Vicount Turenne to Venice, to intreate them in some sort to sa•…•…isfie the Pope, by yeelding vp those Citties which hee demanded. The Senate mak∣ing shew of nothing more then to please the King, did represent to the Am∣bassador their iust ti•…•…les to them, hauing receiued Rauenna of Obizzo Polente [ 30] Lord thereof more then foure hundred yeares since, and that Ceruia was fallen to the Republick, by the testament of Dominico Malateste, by the pay∣ment of cert•…•…ine godly Legacies, which they yeerely continued by accom∣plishing the Testators will.

How that if they had beene desirous to possesse Townes beelonging to other men, they would not haue refused the offers of those of Fu•…•…ly and of other Citties of Romagnia, who were desirous to bee vnder their obedi∣ence;* 1.882 they would not besides haue defended nor maintained with great cost and danger, the Citty of Bolognia, and others belonging to the Pope, nor haue kept them for him: that those Citties had beene taken at such time as the [ 40] Pope had quitted the League, and that they might now for the same occasi∣on iustly detaine them.

Moreouer, that they had spent a great masse of treasure in that warre, which those Citties were not able to recompence.

That the King was to consider, how much it might import him, if those so commodious Citties should bee quitted by his friends and consederates to bee g•…•…uen to the Pope, who stood badly affected towards the Crowne of France, nay euen into the very hands of the Imperialls, seeing that it was apparent that the Pope, eyther by his owne proper motion, or through feare, did wholy depend vppon the Emperour: that hee was beside, to consi∣der [ 50] of their interest, and the wrong which would bee offered to the other Consederates, to the Florentines, and to the Duke of Ferrara, who vndoub∣tedly would bee greatly distasted thereby, and would coole that heate which

pusheth them foreward to the affaires of the league, and moreouer how that those townes, did presently serue for a bridle to containe the Pope in his dutye, seeing that without them, he would already haue openly shewed him-selfe, a friend to the Emperor.* 1.883

The Vicount giuing place to all these reasons, went to Rome to the Pope, were for to compose the businesse, he propounded sundry offers to his Holinesse, namely, that those townes might be enfeoffed to the Signory of Venice, with a certaine annuall acknowledgment, as diuers others belonging to the Church had beene, or that they might be sequestred by the French King to dispose there∣of as he should thinke fitte. [ 10]

These propositions beeing made to the Senate, were neither accepted, nor wholly reiected: but calling to mynde the Republicks benifits to the Church, and what it had done for the seruice of Popes, they seemed to repose great trust in his Holinesse wisdome, how that himselfe might find some honest remedy for that difficulty, and in this vncertainty of businesse ended the yeare one thousand fiue hundred twenty and eight.

The begining of the yeare following did shew great signes of beeing disposed to peace, and of feare likewise of new trobles: but the discontent and wearisom∣nesse of Princes caused the Confederates to procee•…•… slowly in their prouisions of warre: wherevpon as well by reason of the speech of peace, as for the sharp∣nesse [ 20] of the winter, all military factions ceafed.

The Emperor spake openly that he desired nothing more then an vniuersall peace, and especially to fit himselfe to the Princes of Italy, and to these ends had sent the Cardinall of Santa Cruz (for this was the Generall of the Friars title) to Rome to treat of peace, and to cause Hostia and Ciuitauechia to be surrendred to the Pope. The French King, who wished nothing more, sent a commission to his Ambassadors, and the King of England sent Ambassadors to Rome for the same purpose, as vnto whom it alone appertained to conclude this treaty. The Venetians did the like, by giuing ample power to Gasparo Contaren, their Ambass∣ador in the court of Rome, whereby he was inioyned to follow the aduise and [ 30] councell of the most Christian King, and his proper inclination to peace and to the common good of all Christendome, and to giue vnto him all power and li∣berty to promise in the common-wealths name, whatsoeuer should be concluded and determined in the particular conuentions: they did moreouer entreat the* 1.884 Pope to take vpon him the burthen of that businesse, to bring it to such a good end, as all men hoped for by his authority and wisdome: promising that if hee should procure an vniuersal peace; in respect of the strife betwixt the Sea Aposto∣lick and the Signory, concerning the Citties of Rauenna and Ceruia, they would then shew their good meaning therin.

But on the other side, there were diuers presumptions why they wereto doubt [ 40] of his intention, and whether he would sincerely acquit himselfe of that charge: For it was very welknowne that the French King did suspect him, and that he gaue no credit to his wordes, nor did repose to much trust in him, holding whatsoeuer he propounded for doubtfull and incertaine: and therefore did secretly exhort the* 1.885 Venetians to renew their forces both by sea and land, declaring how that he was in no sort troubled for the vnfortunate successe before Naples, as proceeding from a certaine maleuolent fortune, and not from the want of courage of his sol∣diers, and therefore that he was more ready and desirous then euer, to renew the warre in Italy,

The Emperor on the other side, albeit that he did promise to come into Italy [ 50] * 1.886 to take the Imperiall Crowne, and to establish peace there, yet neuerthelesse the great preparations of warre that hee made, was the cause why men thought that hee had an other deseigne in his minde, cleane contrary to his speeches,

together with his great desire to appropriate to himselfe the State of Milan.

The Pope likewise had a great desire to recouer, not onely the territories of* 1.887 Romagnia, but Modena and Regio, and likewise to haue satisfaction for the wrongs and greeuances which hee had receiued of the Florentines, with a will to restore his Nephewes, of the house of Medicis, into Florence to their antient greatnesse and dignity: the which was very hard to bee accomplished without comming to strokes.* 1.888

The Venetians in like manner, albeit that for many yeares they had beene in∣tangled in warre, hauing spent therein more then fiue Millions of gold, and that therefore it behooued them to desire peace, to giue some rest and relaxation of [ 10] their fore-passed troubles, as well to themselues as to their subiects, did neuerthe∣lesse, with great resolution, constantly persist in the protection and defence of the Duke of Milan, meaning not to suffer, in any sort, that his State should fall into the Emperors hands: but as concerning the restitution of the Citties of Puglia and Romagnia, they were ready to hearken vnto it, prouided that an vniuersall peace, for the generall good and quiet of all Italy, might bee well established.

Such at the same time were the deseignes and propositions of the confede∣rate Princes, and such likewise were all mens discourses, concerning eyther warre or peace. The report, in the meane time, of the Emperors comming into Italy, did dayly increase, and for that end sundry great preparations were made at Bar∣celona, [ 20] and the Archduke Ferdinand beeing come to Ispruch, gathered together certaine summes of money to pay the footmen which hee leuyed, to send them into Italy to his brothers ayde, giuing out, that it was to assaile the Venetians State.

André Doria, neuerthelesse, at the same time, and some other of the Imperialls, propounded to the Senate sundry meanes of agreement, saying, That the Empe∣ror did beare a great and singular affection towards their Republick, offering themselues freely (if so it pleased the Republike) to mediate a peace betwixt them. The Venetians behaued themselues modestly in these offers and treaties, fearing that it was some cunning to separate them by these iealousies from the [ 30] friendship and allyance of the French, their ancient allyes and confederates: So as for all that they did not discontinue their preparations for warre, the Se∣nate meaning to depend on none but it selfe, and that whensoeuer a treaty of peace should bee, it should bee made by them beeing armed with the honor of the Commonwealth.

By this time, the terme of the Duke of Vrbins seruice was expired: They con∣firmed hm againe for three yeares more in the same office of Generall of their Army, and augmented his pay with tenne thousand Ducats euery yeare, and his company of men at armes to the number of two hundred, and besides, they gaue to Guy Vbaldo his sonne, a company of fifty men at armes in their Army, [ 40] and a yeerely pension of a thousand Ducats. They afterwards made Ian•…•… Fregosa Generall Superintendent of the affaires of warre, with good enter∣tainment, for the acknowledgement of his valour and sidelitie, and for that they would euer haue in their army some one of authority and command, whom they might trust in the Duke of Vrbins absence, (as hee then was,) wherevpon they sent for him, beeing then at Bressia, commanding him to come with speed to the Armie, to execute his charge.

Diuerse others were in like manner honoured with sundry grades of honour in* 1.889 their Armie. The Count Gajazzo was made Generall of the light-horse, and Antonio de Castello Captaine of the Artillery: They did afterwards, send to [ 50] the Campe to the Prouidator Nani a great summe of money for the leuie of a number of new footmen to make the companies compleat. And to shew that they had likewise a care of their Sea-affaires, they made Ieronimo Pesare

Generall of their Nauall army, and Alessandro Pesare, and Vincenzo Iustiniano, Pro∣uidators commanding them to be in readinesse to depart: they did chose more∣ouer tenne captaines for the Gallies, who should cause those tenne to bee armed which at the beginning of winter had beene disarmed, to the end that the Signo∣ry might haue aboue fifty gallies ready to set saile: and al•…•…hough that by the Confederacy they were bound to surnish but sixteene gallies, they neuerthelesse, promised to adde foure more, to make vp the number of twenty for the leagues seruice, of which Ieronimo Contaren was made Generall.

Now the Duke of Milan, and the Lord Saint Paul beeing solicited by them to augment the number of their infantery (as they were bound to doe) and [ 10] * 1.890 they excusing themselues, for want of money, the Senate resolued to lend the French twelue thousand Ducats, and eight thousand to the Duke of Milan. But aboue all things they entreated the French King not to abandon the Con∣sederates at such a time, in regard of the great affection which they had euer borne to him, and for their constancy in pursuing the warre. Without this supply, the Lord Saint Paul would haue beene brought to an extreame want of men, money, and all other things necessarie for the maintenance of the warre in Italy, for there was not any preparation at all seene to bee made beyond the mounts for the execution of any enterprize, which the King had often pro∣mised [ 20] should bee done, and especially at that time when there was more need then euer, to stoppe the Emperours passage into Italy, by offering him great re∣sistance at his entry, or by enforcing him to looke to the defense of Spaine as∣sailed by the way of the Pirenean mountaines (as was resolued) which the Vene∣tians did most of all pursue, thinking thereby to breake the Emperors deseigne of comming into Italy.

But they peceiuing that the King did rather encline to the warre of Italy, they were in great hope that at one time the warre might be renued in Lom∣bardy and in the Realme of Naples, and before that the Emperours aide should arriue, to make some notable progression.

Vpon these hopes, the Senate sent for the Duke of Vrbin to come to Ve∣nice, [ 30] where, in the presence of the Ambassadours of France, and the Duke of Milan, and of one of the Lord Saint Pauls Gentlemen, they might consult* 1.891 and aduise on meanes to make warre, where in the end was concluded, before all other matters to pursue the enterprize of Milan, by seege rather then by assault, by surprizing all the neighbour townes and places to reduce the ar∣my of Antonio de Leua to want of victuals. And for this purpose it was like∣wise decreed for to haue twenty thousand foot-men in their army, namely, about some eight thousand in the French troupes, and as•…•… many in those of the Venetians, two thousand from the Duke of Milan, and two thousand Lanse∣quenets which they daylie expected from Lyons, leauied already at the [ 40] common charge: and as for the enterprize of Genoa, they determined for to pursue it, according vnto the aptnesse of time, and the successe of Lom∣bardie.

Now because that the whole safety of the affaires of Italy did depend vpon the stopping of the Emperours comming thither, they resolued to augment, they most that might bee, the French and Venetian nauall armies, and especial∣ly of great vessels, which might easily resist that of the Emperours which was com∣posed of the like, to the end that the Emperour vnderstanding the difficulty of his iourney, might absteine from comming.

In the meane time they had notice that the King had changed his pur∣pose, [ 50] meaning for to make warre on the Emperour on the hither side of* 1.892 the mounts, vpon the Confines of Spaine, as had beene before determined: at which newes the Senate beeing assembled to dispatch An•…•…ré Nouagera

newly chosen Ambassadour to the French King: the Senators were diuided in opinion, whether to perswade the King to come in person into Italy, or to send his army towards the Pirenean mountaines to enuade Spaine.

The matter being debated in open councell, where Moceniga on the one* 1.893 side, a man of authority and well acquainted with affaires of State, and Mark-An∣tonio Cornare, a man of great vnderstanding, on the other, being heard, diuersly to maintaine the one and other opinion, that of Cornare preuailed, whereby they de∣creed to enioyne the Ambassador Nouagera to perswade the King, or if he were already enclined therevnto, to incite him more, to depart forthwith and to come into Italy. [ 10]

Nouagera being come into France did not faile to doe that which had beene resolued in the councell, whereof there had beene sundry opinions, hoping to ob∣taine that which he had propounded, because the King had heard him with good attention, and greatly commended his councell, as determining to put it in* 1.894 practize: and for that purpose the King did meane within a while after to come into Languedoc, to reduce all the forces that were there into the next and neerest place to Italy, whether he promised to goe, being followed (besides twenty thou∣sand foot-men) with tenne thousand Lansquenets, and tenne thousand Pioners. The Kings departure, being in this manner held for assured, the Senate resolued that Nouagera should remaine in France nere to the Lady Regent, the Kings mo∣ther, [ 20] and that Sebastian Iustiniano, whom Nouagera was sent to succeed, should fol∣low the King into Italy.

The Senate in the meane time did with speed make all necessary preparations for the renuing of the warre; making account that at the latter end of Aprill, the Republikes army should goe before, and beeing ioyned with that of the Lord Saint Paul, should march to the enterprize of Milan, which being execu∣ted, the Emperours comming would seeme to be wholly broken: and by meanes of this victory, and by the helpe of the army, and the Kings presence, they suppo∣sed to be afterwards able to take the city of Genoa with ease, and any other de∣seigne that they pleased to execute, [ 30]

The Venetians at the same time were very carefull to prouide for the guarde* 1.895 of the places which they held in Puglia, by sending for that purpose into the same country great numbers of foot-men, to preserue whatsoeuer they there possessed, and to attempt to make some farther progression, if occasion should be offered, and also for to keepe the Imperiall forces busied and diuided farre from Lombardy.

This great heate of the Kings beganne by little and little without any ap∣parent cause to coole, and the prouisions for warre to goe slowly forward, wherevpon money was sent very sparingly from France to the Lord Saint Paul, who despayring in a manner of beeing able to entertaine the army, pro∣tested [ 40] that hee would gette him gonne and leaue all, seeing that of tenne thou∣sand men, whom hee ought to haue, hee had scarce the one halfe, by reason that being badly paied, they left the campe in troupes. At the last, the Lord Chastillon, who had beene long expected, came to the campe, with lesse store* 1.896 of money then was needfull, and within a few daies after, he left the campe, and went to Venice, saying that hee would goe into Puglia to assure the troupes that were there, and to carry them a certaine summe of money: for which iourney, the Senate hauing speedily commanded some vessels to bee made ready, according vnto his request, hee did daily with many e•…•…euses, delay his departure, which gaue a suspition that hee had neither money, nor any [ 50] good will for to goe into Puglia, but that hee gaue out that hee would goe thi∣ther, because hee would not breake off the prouisions which the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 had already made.

The King, doubting the matter, and knowing how great cause hee gaue them to suspect, did within a while after send Iohn Iaquin his Ambassadour to Venice to solici•…•…e the departure of the army with the other prouisions for war, without making any mention at all of the Kings so much desired comming, which* 1.897 did so highly import them. This did greatly encrease the Venetians suspition, and did infinitely trouble them, in regard of the daungers which threatned them from the Emperour, and also for that this delay did cause them to loose the fruite of so many hopes, their army remayning vnprofitable on the shore of the Riuer Adda, because that it was not able alone to execute the enterprize of Milan. [ 10] * 1.898

The Senate neuerthelesse did not cease still to arme, soliciting the King for that, wherewith hee cause lesly did presse them, and for this end they chose G•…•…s∣paro Pineli Secretary to the Signory, to goe speedily into France to giue the King to vnderstand, that for their part all things were in readinesse to renue the warre, and that there was nothing wanting but his presence, promising to send forthwith their troupes to meet him: to the end that with greater safety and speed they might execute some notable enterprize.

At the same time the Bandetti of the Realme of Naples came into the field in* 1.899 sundry places of the Kingdome, and did extreamely presse the Imperials, whereby Rance de Cera did promise to himselfe some good successe, being supplied with [ 20] money, and with certaine foot companies; he had by sundry messengers acquain∣ted the King therewith, who from him did represent vnto his Maiesty the State of the affaires, that he might obtaine the supplies that he craued, the which, al∣be it they were promised to be sent with the army, were neuerthelesse delayed from day to day, to the great preiudice of their league, by giuing time to the Imperials to renue and augment their forces: for the report of the Emperours comming had caused diuers Barons and people of the Kingdome to change their purposes, diuers of them being desirous to insinuate themselues into his fauour, some to obtaine pardon, and others to get offices and immunities in the Realme, so that the Prince of Orange being gonne into Abruzzo, recouered [ 30] * 1.900 Aquila by composition, by drawing forth of the city and the whole country neere adioying an hundred thousand Ducats for the payment of his army: from thence he sent forces to Matri•…•…a, where Camillo Parde lay in Garrison with foure* 1.901 hundred foot-men, who beeing gon forth thereof a little before, promising to re∣turne so soone as the Imperials should approach it, the foot-men that were with∣in it, went ouer the walls and left it, whereby the towne was yeelded.

This notwithstanding, the successe of the Imperials was not so good in Pug∣lia,* 1.902 where treason being secretly practized in Barletta, and discouered, Iulio of Naples, captaine of certaine foot forces, and some of the townesmen as authors and complices of the Rebellion were put to death. [ 40]

Besides, the Venetians hauing drawne horse-men forth of Greece into the same Prouince, they ioyned with those o Simon Romano, and all of them toge∣ther scouring the Country, did assure it, and kept the waies open to victuals, hauing driuen Pignatello Count of Borella forth of the whole Prouince.

Now the Marquis of Guasto beeing come into Puglia, would not deale with Barletta, a very strong and well fortified city, but went and encamped before Mo∣nopoli,* 1.903 with foure thousand Spaniards, and two thousand Italians, and lodged in a small bottome couered by the mountaine, so as he could not be hurt with the towne ordnance, wherein lay Camillo Vrsino, Andre Gritti gouernor of the city and Iohn Vitturt the Prouidator, vnto whom Rance de Cera forthwith sent three [ 50] hundred foot-men by the Gallies.

The Marquis then caused a great Bastion to bee made right ouer against the walles within Harguebuze shot, and two others vpon the sea shore, on each side one, Then hauing battered the towne, and made a breach hee gaue an

assault, where he lost aboue fiue hundred men, and great numbers of Pioners,* 1.904 with three peeces of ordnance that were broken, wherevpon he retired a mile and halfe further off, because that the cities ordnance did him much hurt in the place where he was lodged, which caused the Venetians to sally forth, and to as∣saile the bastions that he had made, where they slue aboue an hundred men, and then they assured the Hauen by a bastion made vpon their shore, opposite to that of the enemies.

The Marquis being newly returned before Monopoli, and hauing made two Caualiers, with two trenches, two hundred foot▪men sallied forth of the towne and burned his workes. After that, the Marquis making an other approach [ 10] on the right side of the battery, and causing a bastion to be made behind, he planted the ordnance vpon it, and did beate downe three score fathome of the wall, within foure fathome of the ground: but hauing intelligence, that new* 1.905 companies had entred the towne the same night, sent by Rance de Cera, he with∣drew his ordnance, and at last discamped, wherevpon being come to Conuersa, he afterwards retired to Naples. The braue resistance of Monopoli and the re∣treate of the Marquis, did greatly encourage the Confederates, so that diuers Barons and others, repenting that they had gonne to the Imperial party, shewed themselues very ready for a new rebellion: the which emboldened the souldiers and captaines of the league, to vndertake some enterprize. [ 20]

This being reported to the Senate, perceiuing that their nauall army remai∣ned idle at Corfou, expecting the arriuall of the French army, they commaun∣ded* 1.906 their Generall to saile into Puglia, where beeing arriued, he cast ankor neere to Brundusium, hoping, (as it came to passe) that those of the towne, prouo∣ked by a particular affection towards the Venetians, would forthwith yeeld. The city beeing yeelded on conditions was preserued from spoile, and from all wrongs of the souldiers, and Iohn Francisco Iustinian was made gouernour thereof, as Magistrate for the Signory, and presently afterwards they begann•…•… to batter the castles, the charge thereof was committed to Camillo Vrsino, who ha∣uing in short space brought them to a streight passe, could not for all that en∣force [ 30] them to yeeld, by reason of their hope, ere long to see the Imperiall nauy vpon that sea.

The Venetian army in the meane time did from the Cape of Otranto mo∣lest the whole country, to the great hurt of the Imperials: Simon Romano died at that exploite, who was a valiant and couragious person. The affaires standing at this stay, the Prince of Orange knowing that the Confederates forces were not so meane and weake, as they could easily bee driuen forth of the Realme, neither yet so mighty as they were able to make any progression of great importance, Or perhaps, because that the Emperour would haue the Popes content preferred before all other matters, that hee might haue him for his [ 40] friend and confederate at his comming into Italy, after that he had put strong* 1.907 garrisons into the most important places, he turned with the residue of his forces towards Perusa, to driue Malateste Baillone thence, and from thence to enter into Tuscany, to restore those of Medicis to their country.

The behauiour and approaches of the Prince, did cause the Duke of Vrbin to suspect, that he went about to enuade his State, wherevpon he departed sodain∣ly from the army, to goe and prouide for his owne territories: The Veneti∣ans* 1.908 were not well pleased with their Generalls departure, in so trouble some a season, as well for their owne interests, as for feare of the suspition of the French, who by that accident, taking some occasion of a feigned suspition, might grow [ 50] slow in the prouisions for warre. Therefore the Senate determined with all speed to send Nicolao Tepulo to him, who had beene already before appointed to go to him to the camp, to aduertize him of the new conduct, & by forcible reasons to exhort him, in the name of the Common-wealth, to returne speedily to the

army, and to induce him the more willingly therevnto, they sent him a good summe of money for the payment of three thousand foot men appointed for the guard of his State: but for that time there was no great need thereof. For the Prince of Orange hauing intelligence that the Count of Aquila, and Camillo Virsino called Parde, hauing ioyned their forces together, were come to Canosa, and their troupes dayly encreasing, it was to bee feared that they would cause some commotion of consequence, hauing changed his determination, would not at that time depart forth of the Kingdome, fearing some great insurrection of the people in regard of the great extortion that was there committed, by meanes whereof the Spanish name was very odious to them, wherevpon hee [ 10] * 1.909 thought it fit, first of-all to appease those stirres, and to make prouision of vic∣tuals, referring the execution of his former deseigne to a more commodious season (the which hee did) so that the Duke of Vrbin beeing thereby freed of his suspition, did forthwith come to the army, determining for to march to∣wardes* 1.910 Milan with all his troupes, the Lord Saint Paul hauing sent him word, that hee would take the same way; beeing inuited therevnto by the difficulties wherein the Imperials then were, and by the fortunate successe of the French; because that notwithstanding that two thousand Spanish foot-men were arri∣ued at Milan, whom the Genowais would not entertaine, al-be-it that they ex∣presly came to re•…•…eeue them, discommodities, neuerthelesse, by their comming [ 20] were as much augmented as their forces, seeing that in so great a dearth and want of money they were to feed and pay them.* 1.911

On the contrary diuers townes on the hether side Thesin were at the same time yeelded to the Lord Saint Paul, so as the whole country, in a manner, to his great gaine and reputation, was reduced vnder his power.

Both the armies then aduancing forwards, they met together at Saint Mar∣tins Burrow, fiue miles from Milan, where after a long consultation, concerning the meanes how to execute that en•…•…erprize they resolued with both the ar∣mies to encampe round about the towne, to encompasse and take in as much of* 1.912 the walles as they could, thereby to weaken the enemies defense by busying [ 30] them in sundry places: But there was not descerned in the captaines •…•…uch rea∣dinesse and speed as was besitting the execution of such a deseigne, because that the French said, That in the Venetians campe the number of souldiers was farre lesse then they supposed, and not so many as ought to bee, and that by separating themselues, they should, beeing alone, be weake and in great daun∣ger. The Venetians on the other side, declared that they better accomplish∣ed that wherevnto they were tied then had the French, and that therefore they would see them encampe first, and they afterwards would doe the like, and vpon these distrusts one of an other they departed, their former resolution being broken. [ 40]

The Lord Saint Paul marched towards Landriana, the Duke of Vrbin tooke the way towards Monce, and the Duke of Milan departed with a determinati∣on to enter into Pauia with all his forces: making account by this separation, to scoure the waies, molest the country, and keepe victuals from Antonio de Le∣ua, hoping thereby to ouerthrow him, and to obtaine at last their common de∣sire, which was, to possesse Milan and Coma, the two onely Cities of impor∣tance which held out in that whole State for the Emperour: But so soone as the French were arriued at Land•…•…iana, they suffered themselues to bee carried a∣way (as it was thought they would) with the enterprize of Genoa, beeing very vehemently solicited therevnto by C•…•…sar Fregosa, who measuring matters ac∣cording [ 50] * 1.913 to his own desire, made the euent very facile & easie, whervpon, they pro∣mised to themselues that they would soone returne to their quarter, and therfore they requested the Duke of Vrbin in staying for thē, not to stir from thence where he was with the Venetian forces & the Duke of Milans, for the execution of their

former deseignes, suffering nothing whatsoeuer in the meane time to enter into those cities.

Now the French army departing in this resolution to goe to Genoa, tooke the way of Pauia, the Lord Saint Paul, sending the ordnance before, with the waggons and the vantgard, and himselfe somewhat late, followed with the battaile and the rereward. Antonio de Leua being aduertized by his spies, how that he staied behind, farre from the vantgard, determined to follow and assaile him if occasion were of∣fered: wherevpon in the night he came forth of Milan with his souldiers wearing white shirts vpon their armor, & marching without sound of drum in good order he met with them in the plaine, before they had any knowledge of his comming, [ 10] * 1.914 the first squadron of the French being gonne on so far, as it could not in any time arriue to the rescue of the rest, as also because that the Lord Saint Pauls selfe, did stay behinde, by reason that a peece of ordnance did sticke fast in the mire at the passage of a Riuer, where whilest he was busied with those few men at armes that were there with him, and some fifteene hundred Lansquenets vnder the command of captaine Bossu, he found, vnlooked for, the Spanish shot at his backe, who were at the first brauely repulsed by men at armes, euen into the battaillons of the Al∣mains, but there being a deepe streame betwixt the French and Spaniards, their shot retired behind that streame, where was a pace of the breadth of thirty or forty foote. The Lansquenets on the French side did fight valliantly, and with them [ 20] the Lord Saint Paul, who was alighted from his horse, as were Iohn Ieronimo Ca∣stillon, and Claudio Rangone, captaines of two thousand Italians, who did gal∣lantly defend themselues. But at the last the Imperials comming to the charge with a great battaillon of Almaines, the horse-men and Lansquenets turning their backes, the Italians did the like, and the Lord Saint Paul being remounted was taken as he would haue leaped ouer a dike, and there were taken prisoners with him, Ieronimo Castillone, Claudio Rangone, Lignach, Carbon, and other captains of great note.

The Count Guy de Rangone being gonne before with the vantgard early in the [ 30] morning, as it was concluded the night before, had not any notice of the •…•…ight till he was safely come to Pauia: all the Lansequenets in a manner escaped, and An∣tonio de Leua went backe with his prisoners to Milan. Those that escaped, part of them retired themselues to the Venetians territories, where they were kindely entertained, and others into other places. The Duke of Vrbin ha∣uing* 1.915 intelligence of this defeate, forsooke his abode at Monce, where he lay, and retired to Cassan, a place of more safety, for which the Senate did highly com∣mend him: he had with him about fiue thousand foot-men, foure hundred men at armes, and seuen hundred light horse, with great store of carriage. But come to Cassan, which is a place nere to the Riuer Adda, he did then fortifie himselfe with strong Rampiers, leauing but one way open which was fenced and garded with∣all [ 40] necessaries, supposing that place to be most commodious, to be able with ease to releeue, if neede were, Pauia and Lauda, to offend the enemies, and to defend the State of the Signory; and besides, to fauour, if occasion were offered, the en∣terprize of Genoa by sea. Wherevpon thinking himselfe to be very safe in that place, he would not follow the opinion of Iano Mar•…•…a Fregosa, who councelled him to retire with his army to Bressia, for feare of any inconuenience, being not equall in forces to Antonio de Leua. He being emboldned by this victory, and more desirous to breake the Confederate forces, had followed the Duke of Vrbin* 1.916 as farre as Vaury, two miles from Cassan, which caused some doubt in the Ve∣netians, least hee would haue passed the Adda to haue made wast of the [ 50] Bressan, Bergamasque and Creman territories: But the Duke reposed great trust in his light Cauallery, the which surpassed that of the enemies, both in number and valour, who by scouring all the neighbour Countries round about, did not onelie cut off all the victualls from the Imperialls campe, but

had so affrighted them as none of them durst any more come forth of the tren∣ches: therefore the Duke remayning firme in his resolution, to continue in that place, would not raise his Campe, as well in regard of his reputation, as for the victualls that were brought to him from the country, neere adioyning, which would other-wise haue releeued the enemies, and if hee should haue retyred to the Citty, hee would haue spent those which were appoynted for their friends.

Now the two armies being so neere one to an other, they did continually goe forth to skirmish on both sides, where the Imperialls were still beaten. Antonio de Leua supposing to haue some satisfaction for his losses, by some other meanes, sent Caesar of Naples on the farther side of the riuer Adda, to scoure the Territo∣ries [ 10] of Bressia and Crema, whereof the Duke of Vrbin being aduertised, leauing the Count Gajazzo for the gard of the Campe, he tooke with him a good troope of soldiers and went and ambusht him-selfe, neere to the place where he knew the enemies would passe the riuer, from whence, part of them being gone ouer, hee came forth vnlookt for, with great fury, vpon those who stayed behind vpon the* 1.917 riuer shoare, ready to passe ouer, hauing first of all sent his light Cauallery, to in∣tercept their way, if so bee that they would haue fled towards their campe. But Caesar of Naples beeing troubled with this vnlookt for accident, did speedily cause the bridge to bee broken, fearing least the Duke, for his part, would haue come ouer and fought with him, wherevpon, all those that stayed behind, to the num∣ber [ 20] of fifteene hundred, were either cut in peeces or taken prisoners by the Duke, and among others, it fell out, that a braue Spanish Captaine was taken by a wo∣man of big stature, who in mans attire receiued pay of the Count Gajazzo, and the Count hauing, for mirths sake, called before him on a time, the Captaine that was prisoner, shewing him Margueriton (for so the soldiors called her) told him that the same was the soldier that had taken him prisoner, the Spaniard looking* 1.918 vpon her, answered, that he did comfort him-selfe in his mishap, for that he had beene taken by so braue a man, as hee seemed to bee, but when hee told him that it was a woman, shame and disdaine did so seaze vpon him, as within few daies af∣ter he dyed with greefe. [ 30]

Afterwards the two armies kept them▪selues in their quarters, for the space of many daies: but the Duke of Vrbin calling the Captaines sundrie times to coun∣cell, and propounding diuers things vnto them, did suffitiently manifest his de∣sire to assaile the enemies, and to cause them to dislodge. At the last he resolued to goe forth with all his forces, and to vse meanes by cunning to come to stroakes with Antonio de Leua, vpon some aduantage: hee caused all the ordinance of the Campe to bee brought into one place, and then hee began to march with* 1.919 all the troupes, both foote and horse, and with three peeces of ordnance, mea∣ning to leaue them behind him, by retiring so soone as hee had begunne the skirmish, fayning flight both for feare and vpon necessity: whereby the enemies [ 40] comming forward to get those three peeces, should bee put to rout by the ord∣nance of the Campe, and being so disordred he would againe returne vpon them with greater violence. But this designe fell not out according to his expectation; because that the Count Gajazzo comming forth sooner then he should, with a part of his Infantery, and beginning the skirmish too far of from the Campe, be∣ing not able with those hee had brought with him long to sustaine the enemies fury, was enforced, not-with-standing that hee fought valliantly, to retyre in some disorder. Wherevpon, the Duke perceuing him to bee in danger did on a sodaine make hast to his reskew, and gaue in with such fury athwart the Imperiall* 1.920 Infantery, which neerely pursued the Count Gajazzo, as hee caused them to [ 50] make a stand, and to turne their backes, still pursuing and beating them euen in∣to their Campe.

Antonio de Leua lost in this action more then fifteene hundred foote, part of them being slaine, and the rest taken prisoners: where-vpon hee durst no more

after that suffer his soldiers to sallie forth of the Campe, nor attempt any enter∣prize, continuing in great feare and doubt, what hee were best to doe, being af∣flicted with sundry cares and difficulties. For, on the one side, hee could tarry no longer there for want of victualls, and then hee perceiued that his aboad there* 1.921 could in no sort profit him: on the other side, to dislodge, and to returne to Milan, he thought it would greatly blemish his reputation, and that of the whole army, as if he should confesse, that hee retired for feare, being chaced by a number of e∣enemies, farre lesse then him-selfe: That it was to no purpose to enter into the Venetians state, but very dangerous, all their townes beeing mand with strong Garrisons well fortified and on the other side the people of Milan, were beyond [ 10] measure discontented, and in manner desperate, by reason of the extortion and wrongs which they had sustayned by the soldiers, were ready to make an insurrec∣tion, and to alter the state, calling, without controulement, for their Duke, who lay then with his troopes in Cremona, for he doubted not but that the Venetians being desirous to see him installed in his State, would hazard all their forces, when hope of obtayning that which they so much desired should bee offered* 1.922 them.

But not-with-standing all these reasons, Antonio de Leua being enforced by ne∣cessity to dislodge, retired to Milan. Aftet his departure, the Duke of Vrbin was desirous to come neerer to Monce: but the Senate hauing some suspition that [ 20] Sforza did treate of an agreement with the Emperor, which if it should come to passe, their army would be inclosed, and all the passages shut vp from releeuing* 1.923 Bergamo, caused him to goe with the Army towards Lauda, to discouer the Duke of Milans intent, and to bee assured of him: But since then, the report of the Lancequenets comming, dayly encreasing, and how they did meane to come downe thorow the Verona Territory, to ioyne them-selues afterward with Anto∣nio de Leua, the Senate decreed to place all their troupes in the townes and cit∣ties of their owne state: Wherevpon, the Duke of Vrbin, according to this reso∣lution, retired to Bressia, with one part of the army, and the Count Gajazzo went [ 30] with the residue to Bergamo.

At the same time as these things hapned, the French King tending altogether to peace, that hee might haue home his children, and the Emperor like-wise en∣clining therevnto, the Lady Marguerite, the Emperors Aunt, was by him deputed to conclude this treaty on his part, hauing for this purpose sent her a large com∣mission, which was imparted to a Secretary, whome the King had to that end sent into Flanders: Wherevpon, the King likewise did speedily appoynt the Lady Re∣gent his mother, with like commission, which was like-wise communicated to the Emperors Agents. The commissions being viewed on both sides, the Cit∣tie of Cambray was appointed, where these two Ladies should meet, and talke to∣gether,* 1.924 to treat of the particularities of peace. [ 40]

The King did in no sort aduertize the Senate of this treaty till it was very late, at such time as the Lady Regent departed to the Treaty of Cambray, when the matter could be no longer dissembled, neither did hee so much as communicate vnto them any particularities of the Treaty, but he onely promised the Ambas∣sadors of the Confederates in generall, that hee would make none agreement what-so euer with the Emperor, without their consent and satissaction; then shewing his great affection towards the Republike, hee did greatly exhort them to a generall peace, (which assuring them should be mentioned in that diet) he entreated all the Confederats to send ample power and authority to their Am∣bassadors, which were at his Court, to bee present thereat in their names, and to [ 50] conclude the peace.* 1.925

The Senate found this manner of proceeding by the King to bee very strange, who wonderfull cunningly had along time entertayned them with hope of his comming into Italy, or to send great forces thither both by land and sea, and for

that he had done neither of them, and had euer fed them with words, for feare of breaking of the treaty, yet for all that being desirous to shew that they had still the same mind, and in•…•…lination to peace, which they had before, they determined to send to their two Ambassadors Iustinian and Nouagera, who were at the same* 1.926 time in the french Court, commission and authority to be present at that Treaty, and to promise in the Common-wealths name, what-so-euer should bee neces∣sary and conuenient for the conclusion of peaco. But Nouagera falling sicke before the arriuall of this commission in France, died, to the great greefe of his Country-men.

Now the whole burthen of this charge lay alone vpon Iustinian, who had par∣ticular [ 10] instructious of the Senates meaning and resolution: the which in effect was, That in any case, that which had beene agreed vpon on the three and twen∣tith of the precedent month, might be obserued, and likewise, that the same which had beene concluded and resolued on before, at the Diet of Wormes, might take effect: because that all the strife betwixt the Republike and the house of Aus∣tria,* 1.927 did onely proceed from not obseruing the precedent accords: but that aboue all other things, they would haue the state of Milan to be rendered, and restored to Francis Sforza: of which charge and commission the Venetian Ambassador had no great cause to make vse, For not-with-standing that hee had followed the Lady Regent to Cambray, hee neuer-the-lesse remayned the most part of [ 20] the time at Saint Quintins, certaine miles distant from Cambray, none of the most important particularities, nor truest articles of the treaty, being communi∣cated vnto him.

The Senate by this meanes did doubt, that the King was desirous to conclude an agreement for him-selfe alone, without any regard to their particular intrest,* 1.928 nor to the other Confederates; and that as concerning that which hee had pro∣mised, to conclude nothing with the Emperor without them, proceeded from feare, least they suspecting his intent, should preuent him, by making an accord with the Emperor, and hee by that meanes should bee excluded from all their friendshippes, and his accord made thereby more difficult, and with lesse aduan∣tage. [ 30] Therefore the King had sent the Bishoppe of Tarbi into Italy, with com∣mission to goe to Venice, to the Duke of Milan, to Ferrara, and to Florence, to treate of matters belonging to the warres, albeit it was the least part of his mea∣ning:* 1.929 And within a while after Theodore Triuulcio came to Venice, where in the Kings name he required the Senate▪ to deliuer ouer vnto him in Deposito, the Cit∣ties of Rauenna, and Ceruia, till such time as that businesse were ended, assuring them that hee did it to giue occasion to the Pope to declare him-selfe, it being a matter of great importance to haue his fauour.

Answer was made to this request, that as concerning his comming, the Repub∣like* 1.930 would not faile him of all aide and succor, which it had before times promi∣sed, [ 40] and to giue him a more euident proofe there of they were content to send to Suza, or to Ast, twenty thousand Ducats, before hand towards the first paiment. But for the sequestration of the Citties of Romagnia, an vniuersall peace being to bee treated of at the Treaty of Cambray, that difficulty, among others, was there to bee resolued; how the Senate ought not to consent to that seques∣tring, till such time as it perceiued al their affaires quiet and all other contentions setled.

But in this, the Kings cunning, and sundry ententions, beeing discouered, they did except, with great deuotion, the resolution at Cambray. Therefore the Se∣nate commanded Lodo•…•…ico Faliere their Ambassador in England, to treate with [ 50] * 1.931 that king, who had euer shewed himself a great friend to the Republike, to be pleas∣sed, (as he had at other times bin) to take it into his protection, and to procure, that in those affaires which were handled at Cambray, nothing might be conclu∣ded to the hurt and preiudice thereof, no•…•… to the liberty of Italy, whereof, many

yeares before, he had to his immortall prayse, taken vpon him the defense while•…•… these preparations were made on all sides, the Emperour, who for all the treaty of peace had not ceassed to pursue his deseines, nor to make his preparations for his iourney into Italy came to Genoa, with many shippes and Galleis, within* 1.932 which were a thousand horse, and nine thousand footmen the which he caused to be landed at Sauona, for their more easie passage into Lombardy. His de∣seignes for that present, could not be truly descouered, because he affirmed that his comming into Italy was to establish peace there, and to compose all his vari∣ances with the Potentates of Italy: yet neuerthelesse, he did with all speed, and* 1.933 from all parts assemble the greatest forces he could; Antonio de Leua came and [ 10] ioyned with him with twelue thousand footmen, the Prince of Orange with sea∣uen thousand, the Lanceque nets which had beene leuied in the connty of Tiroll to the number of tenne thousand came through the Verona territory to meet him so as all his forces being ioyned together, amounted to forty thousand footmen, beside the cauallery, which was great, the Almains being folowed by tenne thou∣sand Bourguinian horse-men.

The Emperors arriuall, and with such prouision, did greatly amaze the minds* 1.934 of all Italy, together with the rumor that was spredde abroad, how that the ac∣cord betwixt the Emperor and the most Christian King was already concluded, the Confederates beeing not therein comprehended, notwithstanding that the [ 20] King had promised the contrary: so that there was not any, but the Pope alone, which was free from this feare in all Italy, (according to the particular treaty which he had before concluded with the Emperour at Barcelona), which till then had beene kept secret), whereby he made account to make vse of the Imperiall forces for the execution of his deseignes, and cheefely to restore his nephewes into Florence, and to place them in their antient dignity and greatnesse, as had beene concluded betwixt them.

Therefore, the more to honor his comming, so soone as he vnderstood that he was landed at Genoa, he sent thither three of the cheefest Cardinalls of the [ 30] Colledge for to congratulate his arriuall, and to accompany him euery where.

The Florentines vpon these newes, whom it first of all concerned to purchase* 1.935 his fauor, and to be assured of his meaning, did within a while after likewise send their Ambassadors vnto him, who after the congratulation, were to excuse them for entring into confederacy against him, hauing therein beene enforced by the Popes authority and commandement, and for that they had since then continu∣ed therein by necessity: and they proceeded no farther because they had not any commission, especially concerning the strife betwixt the Pope and them: bu•…•… the Emperor seeming to be desirous to satisfie the Pope in that which he had promi∣sed him, their Ambassador was to no purpose. [ 40]

The other Potentates of Italy, did likewise send their Ambassadors to his Im∣periall* 1.936 Maiesty, requesting his friendship and peace▪ The Venetians alone re∣maining constant in their determination, resolued to enter into no agreement with the Emperor but vpon extremity: not, but that they were desirous of peace, but because he feared that the Emperor had a meaning contrary to the liberty of* 1.937 Italy, and that he would so handle the matter as all the whole state thereof should depend only vpon him: wherevpon, they thought, that to shew themselues hum∣ble and low-minded, was nothing else but to encourage him, and to confirme him in his desire and hope of beeing able to command all Italy. So that they did then wisely by not sending their Ambassadors to him: but they gaue their consent that the Duke of milan, (who as beeing tyed vnto them, had therevppon, craued [ 50] the Senates aduise) might send his Ambassadors, as a vassall of the Empire: and as for themselues, being in a manner le•…•…t alone, they did with speed make great prouisions for warre, to assure (as much as might bee) their owne state, they lea∣uied new troupes of foot to augment their army, and to strengthen the garrisons

of other Citties: they chose Francisco Pascalie, Prouidator Generall for the firme land, whose principall charge was to visit their forces, and to furnish them with all necessaries: they tooke diuers Captaines into their pay, and among o∣thers Sigismond Malatest•…•…, with a thousand foote, and two hundred light horse; and because great numbers of Lancequenets, departing from Bolognia, were al∣ready passed by, they caused Iohn Contare•…•… the Prouida•…•…or, and Caesar Fregosa with a strong garrison to enter into Verona.

Now because it did greatly import them to keepe the other Italian Confede∣rate* 1.938 princes in breath, The Senate did not faile to encourage the Florentines, and to commend their constancie, exhorting them to defend their country and li∣berty, [ 10] promising to giue them all aide and succour that the time would permit, and particularly to cause their forces to enter vpon the Parmesan, and Placentine Con•…•…ines, so soone as the Emperor should dislodge, to draw into those quarters, for the defence of his Citties, the Emperiall forces which were in Tuscany.

They did the like to the Duke of Ferra•…•…a, vnto whome they sent Marke Anto∣nio Renier their Ambassador, to declare vnto him the Republikes good mea∣ning, for the common defence of the liberty of Italy, and the particular affection* 1.939 which they did beare to the Duke, and to his whole state, for which, being con∣ioyned by neere neighbour-hood, and by sundry other respects, they would neuer refuse to runne one selfe same fortune with him: and therefore they desired to be [ 20] acquainted with his intent and meaning. The Duke shewed that hee was highly pleased with his Ambassade, and promised to doe much, and particularly to leuy great numbers of men of warre, which hee assembled neere to Modena, to serue, not alone for the defence of his owne state, but in all places where the Confede∣rates should haue neede.

The Treaty of Cambray was at the same time published, which already by a Common rumor was knowne to all men, namely, how that none of the Confe∣derates* 1.940 were comprehended in it. There was onely, place reserued for the Vene∣tias to enter into it, so as within the space offoure moneths they would end their controuersies with the Emperor, which was nothing else but a silent exclusion in [ 30] regard the greatest difficulties remayned vndecided.

The King by the same treaty was among other things bound •…•…o cause those townes which the Venetians held in Puglia to bee rendred to the Emperor, and vpon their refusall to declare himselfe their enemy, and to helpe him to recouer them by force. For the execution of which article, the King did on a suddaine send his Ambassadors to Venice, to entreat them to render to the Emperour whatsoeuer they held in Puglia, being bound to make that request by the Treaty of Cambray, and that, according to the forme of the Capitulations at Coignac: adding therunto, that he did so much rely on the affection which they had euer made shew to beare vnto himselfe, and to the Crowne of France, as albeit that [ 40] there were not any Treaty that did oblige him to demand that of them, hee did* 1.941 neuer-the-lesse perswade him-selfe that hee should obtaine it, at his owne priuat request, it importing him so highly, as hee could not otherwise redeeme his chil∣dren from the Emperor, who were one day to succeed him in the Kingdome.

The Senate answered that it did still continue, in that good will and affection which it had euer borne to the King and Crowne of France, the Republike being in a manner ioyned to that Kingdome by an indissoluable band, in regard of sun∣dry* 1.942 faire reciprocall offices, and common interests: that they could not deny but that they had greatly desired to haue beene comprehended in that accord made with the Emperor, not so much for the prouiding for their owne safety as for to [ 50] take away all suspition that they were in any fault, or that the Common-wealth had not sound intelligence, and corresponde•…•…cy with the Crowne of France. Yet neuer-the-lesse, they did so much rely vpon the Kings goodnesse and wisdom, as they hoped by his interposing of his authoritie with the Emperor, to obtaine

peace and assurance which they so much desired. But concerning the restitution of the Citties of Puglia, it was euident, that they were not tyed to doe it by any bond, seeing that the King had concluded peace, without comprehending them therein, hauing thereby absolued them from the bond of the Confederacy, by which was expresly mentioned, that the King could not make any accord withou•…•… them: Yet they neuer-the-lesse desired to giue him therein some satisfaction; but hee was to tarry for some opportunity how to doe it, seeing that the deliuery of my Lo•…•…ds his children was to bee made within two moneths, by which time, they hoped to finde some meanes to compose the strife betwixt the Empero•…•… and them, whereby the same businesse might in like manner by the same meanes [ 10] be finished to the Kings content.

Vpon this answer the King dispatcht the Admirall into Italy, to exhort him to vniuersall peace, and cheefely to make an accord with the Venetians, by meanes* 1.943 whereof, hee hoped to bee able to accomplish the conditions of the Treaty of Cambray, by causing the Citties of Puglia to be rendered to him, hauing alrea∣dy for his part begun that which belonged vnto him to execute, by commanding Rance de Cera with all his companies, to depart forth of Puglia, hauing consigned into the hands of the Emperors commissioners, all the places which hee held in his name in the Realme of Naples, by perswading like-wise the Venetian officers to doe the like: But they being before aduertized of the Senates intention, had [ 20] refused so to doe.

At this stay stood the affaires of Italy at that time. The Emperor being in armes, and very mighty; the Pope his friend and Confederate, the other Poten∣tates of Italy being in a manner ready to obay him, and the French wholy chaced forth of Italy; for albeit they had not as yet layde downe their armes, it was ne∣uer-the-lesse mentioned in the Treaty, that the King should no more medle with the affaires of Italy nor Germany, in the behalfe of any Potentates, to the preiu∣dice of the Emperor. The Venetians alone, in the middest of so many difficulties, made preparations to resist the Emperor, if so be that he were desirous, (as it was thought he would bee) to seaze vpon the State of Milan: therefore their confe∣deracy [ 30] being broken with all others, they did newly reuiue it with Francis Sforza, exhorting him to take courrage, and to hope well, meaning in his behalfe to em∣ploy all their forces.

The end of the eighth Booke of the fifth [ 40] Decade.

[ 50]

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

FIRST, Soliman taketh Armes to restore Iohn Vayuode into the kingdome of Hun∣gary, with the taking of Belgrade. The insur∣rection of the Hereticks in Germany. A mo∣tion of peace betwixt the Emperor and the [ 20] Venetians. The enteruiew of the Pope and the Emperor at Bolognia. Accord betwixt the Emperor and the Duke of Milan. Accord made betwixt the Emperor and the Veneti∣ans. Warre against the Florentines. Pope Clement crowneth the Emperor at Bolognia. Confederacy betwixt the Pope, the Emperor, the Venetians, and the Duke of Milan. The Marquisat of Man∣tua is made a Dutchy. The Venetians send Ambassadors to Constantinople to be [ 30] present at the Circumcision of Solimans children, being by him entreated to that end. The Almains demand a councell, and the Popes answer therevnto. The Emperor graunteth the Interim in Germany concerning religion, vntill a councell were called. Solimans great deseigns against Christendome. The Venetians make great preparations and stand vpon their gard. The Venetians resolue to remaine newter in the warre, betwixt the Emperor and Soli∣man. The Kings of France and England determine to make warre vpon the Emperor. Soliman returneth into Hungary with a great army. The Emperor [ 40] commeth likewise with a great Army neere to the Citty of Vienna, there to tarry for the Turke. The Nauall Armies of the Emperor, and Soliman. Coron and Patras, are taken by the Imperial army. The Duke of Ferrara reco∣uereth Modena & Regio. A second enteruiew of the Pope and Emperor at Bo∣lognia. The Venetians refuse to renew the league, being satisfied with the for∣mer, and not meaning to adde anything to it. And lastly a new league con∣cluded, betwixt the Pope, the Emperor and all the Potentates of Italy, (the [ 50] Venetians excepted.)

The Ninth Booke of the fifth Decade of the [ 10] Historie of Uenice.

WHILEST Italy was in alarme by reason of the Emperors ar∣riuall [ 20] with such great prouisions, Soliman the Turkish Empe∣ror resolued to restore Iohn Vayuode King of Hungary to his Kingdome, from whence, Fernand had expulsed him, and being entired to this end with a mighty army vpon the Confines of Hungary, he came and encamped before Buda, which he tooke* 1.944 with ease, then hee caused his Cauallery to scoure the Cham∣paine Country of Austria, spoyling all places that were subiect to the Arch▪ duke, threatening him that hee would within a while after encampe with all his forces before Vienna: Wherevpon hee caused great preparations, of victualls and war∣like [ 30] engins to be made, to send them thither by Danuby. These newes did greatly trouble the Emperor, perceiuing that it concerned his reputation and the safety of the States of the Empire, not to suffer so mighty an enemy to come so neere him, besides the trouble and care whereto his brother was reduced, whilest hee busied him-selfe in matters of meaner consequence, as spectator of the eminent dangers o•…•… his whole house, and subiects.

This mischeefe was followed by an other as great, for his brother aduertized him, that the Sect of Hereticks did very much encrease in Germany, that they were assembled in great troupes, and made shew of great innouation, and that if* 1.945 they were not speedily preuented by rooting them wholy out, it was to bee feared [ 40] that some great hurt would redound to the Catholike Religion, which would preiudice the temporall States of Princes, and cheefly those of the Empire. These occasions being well weighed, caused the Emperor to condescend to peace, and to pursue it in effect, the which desire at the first, men thought that he had but feig∣ned; For the Emperor thinking it not only dangerous, but smally for his honour, to depart forth of Italy, and to leaue matters imperfect, without establishing a sure peace there for a time, he beganne to shew that his mind enclined there∣vnto.

But because hee plainely perceiued that hee could not effect it without making an accord with the Venetians, on whome, (during these troubles) the State of all Italy seemed to depend, being yet doubtful whether the French king would ioyne [ 50] * 1.946 with them, who were so much distasted of him, by reason that hee did no more care to obserue the Treaty of Cambray, now that hee had home his children, then hee had done that of Madrill, after that hee was set at liberty: Hee resolued with him-selfe to make an accord with the Venetians, and made this his desire

knowne to his owne Councellours, the better to finde some meanes to end this businesse, in which diuers men of authority did employ themselues.

Andrew Doria sent Frederico Grimaldi to Venice to offer them freely to employ himselfe in this treaty, assuring them that he knew for certaine that the Emperor was desirous of an agreement with them, and that if the Senate would be pleased* 1.947 to haue him to meddle in the businesse, he did hope speedily to dispatch it. The Senate neither accepting nor refusing this offer; answered that it had euer desired peace, and highly esteemed (as it became them) the Emperors f•…•…eindship▪ being at the same present of that mind, but that they were very desi•…•…ous to see some e∣uident signe whereby they might perceiue the Emperors intention to be such as [ 10] as he spake of, for, the keeping of the Lancequenets in hostile manner vppon their State, spoiling and wasting the Bressan territory, was a token of a contrary affection.

Soone after, Sigismond de la Tour, Chamberlaine and Ambassador to the Marquis of Mantoa came to Venice, to exhort the Senate in like manner to an a∣greement with the Emperor, affirming the very same that Doria had done, how that the Imperiall Maiesty was desirous of an atonement with them, entrea∣ting them to giue consent to suffer the treaty thereof to bee concluded in the Citty of Mantoa, whether he knew that the Emperor would forth-with send his Agents, with commissions to that end. [ 20]

During these treaties the Emperour prepared for his comming to Bolognia to speake with the Pope, according as it had beene concluded at Barcelona.

All men had great hope of this enteruiew, wherein, matters of importance* 1.948 were to be decided: of which, men greatly doubted, remaining with attention to see what would be the end thereof, especially the Venetians, because their af∣faires were very much intermingled and of great difficulty. The Pope seemed greatly to affect them, seeking, (by the meanes of Cardinall Cornare) to induce them to lay downe their armes, and to come to some honourable com∣position: and therefore hee had already before then sent the Bishop of Vaison his Nuncio to the Emperor at Placentia, who was thought to haue greatly [ 30] preuailed in disposing him vnto peace with all men, and cheefely with the Venetians.* 1.949

This was the cause why diuers Senators shewed themselues more strict in this negociation, some of them being desirous to tarry, till it were called vpon in the assembly at Bolognia: others, of a contra•…•…y opinion, propounded that it behoo∣ued them to accept of the offer of the Marquis of Mantoa, and make present choyce of Ambassadors to send thither to treat of agreement:

And why should we (say they) deferre it any longer? The Emperor hath a mighty army, the forces* 1.950 of the league, being broken and dissolued, are weake, nay rather de•…•…eated: the Florentines alone, the Duke of Milan, and We, are left to vndergoe the burthen [ 40] of such a warre: which is indeed a matter very vneasie, by reason of our smal meanes after so great expences that we haue beene at, and in regard of the great forces that the Emperor hath at this present in Italy: and yet neuerthelesse in such an inequallity of things, whilest he daily increaseth in hope, and we wax weak, he is content to treat with vs vpon equall termes, and (as I may say) to humble himself and to be the formost in inuiting vs to peace and friendship and we refuse it and make small account thereof.

And besides, it is not to be doubted, but that which Doria first of all; and then the Marquis of Mantoa haue so freely offered and promised, hath not only proceeded from his owne consent, but hath beene done by his expresse commandement, for [ 50] beleeue it, they would neuer vndertake to be dealers betwixt such great Princes, with such an assurance of their mindes, were they not more then certaine thereof, and is it then a part of wisdome to let such an occasion to escape which offereth it selfe to doe that which wee haue soe often-times desired, and

which at this present more then euer is to be wisht for? Wee haue had for many yeares, continuall warre, wherein wee h•…•…ue spent more then fiue Millions of gold, so, as this Citty, and our whole State, which did scarcely beginne a little to breath after the forepassed warres, is now wholy ruined, and all mens meanes con∣sumed, and yet for all that, a way being opened vnto vs, to settle vs hence-forward in rest and quietnesse to our honor and reputation, by prouiding (as there is hope) for our safety and comfort, we will hold the matter doubtfull, and expose our peace to the hazard of fortune, which may, (as it hath often done) produce such an accident, as will change the Emperors mind and will, or else, by his re∣mayning armed here in Italy, may encrease our discommodities and dangers, or [ 10] by his departure, leauing matters in trouble and confusion, keepe vs yet for as many yeares more at as great expence in warre: and then, God knoweth, what will be the end thereof.

Those which haue hithervnto praised the constancy of this Senate, for that without sparing cost, and without feare of any danger, it hath defended, with such great affection, the common cause, and the liberty of Italy, perceiuing now, (ac∣cidents being changed, and how needfull it is to change opinions) that it doth continue in the same way and desire, to dwell in armes, and to make warre, ha∣uing meanes to auoide it, will perhaps change their minds, and de•…•…me vs to ob∣stinate, and others will repute vs foolish and ill-aduised, for that wee will not han∣dle [ 20] matters, not onely by reason, but according to our owne will, without apply∣ing our selues to time and occasion, by temporizing and expecting better for∣tune: It is without doubt good and commendable to deliberate maturely on matters which present themselues, but we must not excced the limmits of reason, least wee come to extremity, which is euer dangerous, but follow as most proffi∣table, the middle way; because it often happeneth, that a long delay of his, which holdeth matters in perpetuall irresolution and length, causeth as much, and more danger, then an ouer hasty and precipitate councell: From this, vntill now, we haue sufficiently kept our selues, hauing for so many yeares maintayned warre, and tried all possible meanes to reduce this Estate to a setled quiet and safety: [ 30] Let vs now take heede, least we runne into the other extremity, for feare least by seeking to much our owne aduantage, and crauing too much assurance, we come to hinder our selues, and to expose our affaires to greater dangers.

Others were not of this opinion, thinking it more honorable and more profita∣ble* 1.951 to temporize, not letting the Emperor know, that they were desirous of an a∣greement.

These men did consider the small assurance, that was in the Emperors Army, which wanted mony and victualls, whereby, these two failing, it was of necessity to breake: That their Citties were fenced with strong garrisons, That the Emperor could not in any sort assail•…•… them vpon hope of sodaine taking of them: That he was besides, called away else where, and enforced to depart ere long forth [ 40] of Italy: That the Turke had beseeged Vienna, and reduced it to great danger: That all his brothers country was spoyled and ruined, by the Turkish Cauallery. That the Heretickes had raised great troubles, and of great importance in sundry places of Germany, if they were not speedily supprest by his presence: That hee, being once gone forth of Italy, and his army broken, or at least much decayed, there was no doubt, but that they might with ease seaze on the whole Dutchy of Milan, and mainteyne the Citties of Puglia vnder their obedience, and in a word, become victors in that warre, and purchase in all places an immortal glory and re∣putation: and where as at this present they treated of receauing an other mans lawes and conditions, the Emperor should bee enforced to sue for and accept the [ 50] Republikes friendship, on conditions to their aduantage for feare least the French, euer ready to armes, should attempt to contract a new league with them, and be∣ing afterwards ioyned together should come and trouble him, whilst he were bu∣sied in some other war: That no man was to perswade him-selfe, that the Emperor

distasting this Republick, because it had beene for many yeares vnited with the French, would come at this time for any loue therevnto, to propound conditions of agreement: but that they were rather certainely to beleeue that it was his own profit that mooued him thereunto, knowing the State of his owne affaires to be badly assured, and the impossibility of beeing able to hold together his army and to make any long aboad in Italy: That it was a general rule, that whatsoeuer plea∣seth the enemy, and is by him esteemed necessary and profitable, ought to be re∣iected, as a thing which on the other side may beget contrary effects. His shew of humanity, and his desire of peace and quiet, was a cunning of the Imperialls to court their owne weaknesse, and to make men beleeue that by truly procuring [ 10] their owne aduantage, their only aime was the common good.

But let vs yet presuppose (said these men) that it were good at this present to make an accord with the Emperor. It is at the least more then reasonable to tar∣ry till the assembly at Bolognia, where the Emperors will and intention may be better discouered, especially in the accord which shal be treated of, concerning the Dutchy of Milan, wheron in the end, as well by reason of the ancient and new confederacy, as for sundry great interests of the Commonwelth, the most assured resolution of peace ought to depend.

These reasons did greatly mooue many of those that were there present, who were of opinion not to lay downe armes, but with honor and safety to the Com∣mon-wealth, [ 20] * 1.952 deferring for that time, the nomination of Commissioners which were to goe to Mantoa to treat of peace.

They resolued to send the Secretary Andrew Rossi to the Marquis, to thanke him for his offer and kind affection which he did beare to the Signory, and to ex∣cuse them for that they could not as yet resolue vppon any treaty of agreement, by reason that the Pope and the Emperor were shortly to meet together at Bo∣lognia, to compose the affaires of Italy, that the Bishop of Faenza, the Popes Nuncio, had already a hand in that negotiation and particularly in that which concerned the Common-wealth.

The Pope in the meane time being gonne from Rome came to Spoleta, and [ 30] from thence to Bolognia, there to expect the Emperor, who after that the Pope* 1.953 had made his entry, came thither within few dayes after, so, as sondry welcomes and reciprocall caresses being made, they beganne to treat of the affaires of Italy, and how to establish a firme peace there, either of these Princes seeming to beve∣ry desirous thereof.

But the first and most important▪ was, the accord with the Duke of Milan, who after sundry goings, to and fro of the Prothonotory Carracciola, and of D. Garcia de Padiglia from Placentia to Cremona, being aduised by the Venetians, who the more to honour him, caused Marc Antonio Veniero their Ambassador, to accom∣pany him, determined to go in person to the Emperor to Bolognia, hauing recei∣ued [ 40] a safe conduct from his maiesty, vnder coullor of comming to him to iustifie himselfe because the difficultest point of his businesse seemed to bee, for that the Emperor was distasted of him because that being farre of, the Duke had refused to humble himselfe, and to doe that duty which did belong to a vassall of the Em∣pire, or else for that he would haue debated his businesse with to great arrogancy, or at the least with too much distrust of the Emperours Iustice and Cle∣mency.

This matter beeing almost finished, w•…•…s interrupted by the Imperiallists, who demanded, for the assurance of that which should bee agreed vpon,* 1.954 that Francis Sforza should deliuer vnto them, the Citties of Pauia and [ 50] Alexandria, the which by the Venetians aduice hee flatly refused to doe, the State hauing mand them with strong Garrisons, and lent the Duke tenne thousand Ducats for their entertainment. This demand of the Imperiall officers did reuiue both in the Duke and the Venetians their former suspitions, that

the Emperialls were desirous to appropriate to them-selues the State of Milan: The Pope vpon this refusall, demanded to haue these Citties consigned into his hands, whereof the Duke like-wise crauing to bee excused, because hee could not doe it without the Venetians consent, and that it would bee best to referre the matter to the deciding of his cause in the assembly at Bolognia, it was referd thi∣ther without any resolution.

The Duke then b•…•…ing come to Bolognia, and brought in to the Emperors pre∣sence, hee did very humbly thanke him for his curtesie, in that he had suffered him to come before him: then hee told him, that hee did so much rely vpon his ius∣tice, at hee desired none other assurance or support then his owne innocency, [ 10] * 1.955 and in so saying, he•…•…laid downe at the Emperors feet the letters of safeconduct, which he had in his hand, where-with the Emperor was highly pleased: A moneth was spent in the handling of the difficulties, as well of his accord as of that of the Venetians, and at last the Pope hauing greatly imployed him-selfe therein, both the one and other were concluded.

Francis Sforza promised to pay vnto the Emperor within a yeare foure hun∣dred thousand Ducats, and other fiue hundred thousand within tenne yeare, namely fifty thousand yearely; Coma, and the Castle of Milan remayning in the Emperors hands, who promised to surrender them so soone as the first yeares payment were made, and gaue him the inuestiture, or rather the confirmation of [ 20] that, which hee had before giuen him.

As for the Venetians, they did like-wise consent to surrender Rauenna, and Ceruia, with their Territortes, to the Pope (their clames saued) the Pope pardo∣ning those who had practized or done any thing against him. They did like-wise agree to render to the Emperor, in the moneth of Ianuary next ensuing, all that* 1.956 which they possessed in the Kingdome of Naples, and to pay him the residue of the two hundred thousand Ducats due at the last peace contracted betwixt them, namely, twenty thousand Ducats within a moneth, and fiue and twenty thousand yearely after-wards till the end of the payment, and to pay him another hun∣dred [ 30] thousand Ducats besides, the one halfe within tenne moneths, and the o∣ther within a yeare after, and that the Duke of Vrbin should be comprized in that peace, as being vnder the Venetians protection. Diuers other Articles were added, concerning particular persons, and the generall commerce, so as by this peace and confederacy, Italy was freed from the tumults and dangers of armes, where-with it had beene afflicted the space of more then eight yeares, with infi∣nite ho•…•…tible accidents.

Florence alone was exempted from this good hap, vnto whome other mens peace had procured a worse and more dangerous war, by reason of the Floren∣tines contention with the Pope. The Imperiall army leauing the Venetian State, [ 40] and being come neere to the confines of Tuscany, went on very slowly by the Popes commandement, who desired to preserue the city of Florence and her whole territory from the souldiers spoile and oppression, which gaue the Floren∣tines time and occasion to fortifie them-selues, and to make strong rampiers about their walles, and to receiue two thousand foot-men into it which Malateste Baillone brought thither, after that he had by composition yeelded the City of Perusa to the Marquis of Guasto, which made them more vnwilling to grant the* 1.957 Popes demaunds: As also because that their delay to make their approches, had begotten an opinion in the Florentines, that the Emperour would rather in shew then in effect, satifie the Popes de•…•…ire. But the Pope on the other side being ex∣treamely incensed against them, because they would not referre themselues to his [ 50] iudgement, wherein •…•…e promised to proceed with all meekenesse, and being in great hope to obtaine his desire by freely disposing of the Emperours forces, see∣ing that he had no more need of them, by reason that he had made an agreement

with the Venetians and the Duke of Milan, he determined rather to come to the extreamest point of all then to giue place in any thing.

The Venetians were greatly grieued for the Florentines troubles and vexati∣ons, as their friends and confederates, and ioyned together in one selfe same cause, for the tuition and defense of the liberty of Italy: but the Republike was charged with such excessiue expences, as al-be▪ it that all her forces were still whole, yet ne∣uerthelesse it could not giue them that aide and assistance which was needfull: and therefore the Senate exhorted the Florentines to make an accord, if it were pos∣sible, with the Pope, vpon any honourable condition which might not preiudice their liberty. [ 10]

The Emperour in the meane time commanded the Marquis of Guasto to set* 1.958 forward with the army, and to goe and encampe before the walles of Florence, being mooued therevnto by his owne particular interests, besides the Popes, greatly desiring to haue those of Medicis to returne into the city, because that he had promised to giue the Lady Marguer•…•…te his naturall daughter in mariage to Alexander the Popes Nephew, to the end that his sonne in law might hold an estate answerable to the greatnesse of so high a marriage: thinking moreouer that it would greatly profit him, for the encrease and assurance of his power in Italy to haue the gouernment of that City, which had euer shewed it selfe much incli∣ned to the French, to depend wholly in time to come vpon him. [ 20]

All the warre being in this manner brought into Tuscany and neere to the wals of Florence, all the remainder of Italy, and Christendome, were at peace, the which hapned very opportunely at the same time, that all of them being vnited toge∣ther might march against Soliman, who desyring there to purchase glory and re∣putation by armes, being the more emboldened therevnto by the quarells and contentions of Christian Princes, did menace their Realmes and Dominions: for notwithstanding that winter approched, and that he wanted great ordnance, he was constrained to discampe from before Vienna, the which was defended by a number of braue men, he neuerthelesse cau•…•…ed it to giuen forth abroad that he would returne againe at the spring, and beseege it with greater forces, or else [ 30] some other City of Germany.

Soliman dislodging from those quarters, did establish Iohn in the Kingdome of* 1.959 Hungary, shewing thereby that his principall aime was to purchase the •…•…ame of a valiant and generous Prince: he did moreouer create high Treasorer of the King∣dome Lodouico Gritti, sonne to Andre Gritti Duke of Venice, borne of a Concu∣bine at Constantinople, whilest being young he remained there about businesse. The conditions of peace being thus accomplished, the Venetian Senate being very carefull to establish it, and to purchase and keepe the fauour and friendship of these Princes, determined to send Ambassadors to the Pope and the Emperor to testifie both to the one & other, the gr•…•…at conten•…•…mēt which they had receiued [ 40] by such an accord and reconciliation, and how desirous they weare to haue that peace and friendship long to continue betwixt them. Some of the cheefest Se∣nators* 1.960 were appointed for this Ambassage, namely Marco Dandulo, Lodouico Gradonico, Lod•…•…uico Moceniga, and Lorenzo Bragadin•…•…, vnto whom, to make the Ambassage mo•…•…e honorable, were added Antonio Su•…•…iano, chosen at the first for successor to Gasparo Contare•…•… Ambassador with the Pope, and Nicolao Tepulo who was to be resident with the Emepror.

These sixe then came to Bolognia at the beginning of the yeare 1530▪ where the Pope and Emperorlay, who honorably entertayned them, where they ex∣ecuted the tenor of their commission a part, first of all to the Pope and then to [ 50] the Emperor. They did highly e•…•…toll the Pope, for that a•…•… the common Father, embracing with Piety and wisdome, the cause of Christendome, hee had ended so many troubles and calamities▪ and the Republi•…•…e did particularly thanke him, for his care of the wealth and commodity thereof, by composing in friendly

manner their strifes with the Emperour, and thereby sreed them from the ex∣pence and trouble of warre.

They declared to the Emperour the necessity which had enforced them to take* 1.961 armes, and to continue the warre, their sorrow and griefe for matters past: but aboue all their firme resolution to obserue and maintaine the accord made be∣twixt them, and their desire of a perpetuall and an dissoluable friendship betwixt the house of Austria and the Republike.

The Ambassadors hauing in this mannerfully executed their commission, so as nothing was left for them to negociate, they were neuerthelesse commanded not to stirre from Bolognia, that they might be present at the Emperours Coro∣nation, [ 10] which was to be done in that City: because that Charles, meaning at the first to be crowned at Rome, according to the ancient custome of other Empe∣rours, being called home by the Germains, for matters of great importance, re∣solued to haue the ceremony performed at Bolognia, by reason whereof great numbers of people comming thither from all parts, and Princes Ambassadours,* 1.962 they thought that such an Ambassage as theirs would become the pompe and sollemnity of such a day, which was vpon the foure and twenty of February, which being ended, the Ambassadours returned to Venice, being honoured by the Em∣perour with a guift of fiue hundred Portiguze worth ten crownes a peece, the which, according to their custome, were laied vp in the publike treasury: The anci∣ent [ 20] fathers of the State hauing wisely decreed, that if those citizens that were sent* 1.963 in Ambassage to Princes, did receiue any thing of them in guift, they were to de∣liuer it vp in publike, they, thinking it vnreasonable to refuse that which was gi∣uen in honour to him that did represent the Common-wealth, nor likewise to suf∣fer that which was giuen to publike persons, to be conuerted to priuate vses, and if at times they were permitted to enioy them, it passed by the common suffrages of the Senate, wherevpon he vnto whom it was giuen, held it afterwards of the Senates grace and liberallity: and by this meanes, they did cut off all occasion from bad Citizens of being partiall for any Prince whatsoeuer, vpon hope of [ 30] gaine, to the detriment of the Common-wealth: Within a while after, three Am∣bassadours came to Venice from the Emperour, to render a reciprocall office of friendship, and in particular to resolue vpon the execution of certaine Articles of peace, who were entertained with all honour and sumptuousnesse, and at their departure they were presented with cuppes of gold, of the value of a thousand crownes a peece; and touching the Emperours demand, for his sake diuers of the Republikes subiects were pardoned, and others raised to great honours and dignities.

The Emperour after his coronation went to Mantua, where he was receiued* 1.964 with all royall magnificence by Frederico Gonzaga Marquis of that place, who by [ 40] him was recompenced with the degree and title of Duke, to himselfe and his po∣sterity: from thence, being to passe thorow the Republikes State, in his iourney by Trent into Germany, the Senate commanded Paulo Nani and Giouani Delfino, Generall Prouidators in the firme land, and likewise G•…•…ouani Mora, gouernor of Pa∣dua, and Pedro Grimani gouernor of Vincenza, to meet him at Villafranca with great company of Gentlemen, which lieth vpon the Mantuan and Verona con∣fines, and to waite vpon him so long as he should make his abode vpon their ter∣ritories: they commanded likewise the officers of Verona, to make speedy proui∣sion* 1.965 of victuals, and other necessaries for those of his Court, and for the souldi∣ers: and they did in particular, in the Republikes name, present him, with wine, ve∣nison, fish, sweet meats, and all other exquisite delicates fit for entertainment. [ 50]

The Emperour then passed along with all his forces, beeing attended on by great numbers of Lords and Princes Ambassadours, and amongst others by Nic•…•…∣lao Tepulo, appointed (as hath beene said) ordinary Ambassador with his Maiesty, and in passing by Verona, without entring the city, where, and in the castles the

gards were doubled, he came to Chiusa, being still accompanied by the Com∣missioners that represented the common-wealth, and being thorow all their State entertained with great honor, he seemed to be highly pleased and satisfied there∣with, and protested great loue to the Republike.

As these things seemed to encrease these Princes confidence, and to confirme peace and friendship, euen so was it to be feared that they would in Soliman (great States being euer filled with iealosie) beget summe suspition, that the Signory would enter into league against him with the Christian Princes, and that which made him to doubt it, was the common report that was spread abroad, that peace was established amongst those Princes, that they might afterwards, being vni∣ted [ 10] together, make warre vpon the Turke, and oppose themselues against Soli∣mans great deseignes, who hauing once al•…•…eady beseeged the city of Vienna, did threaten to returne thither againe with a mightier army. Certaine Cardinals, ap∣pointed for that end, did meet at Bolognia with the assistance of the Ambassadors of other Princes to treat of necessary preparations to beginne the warre with the Turke, and though the Common-wealths Ambassadors were not present at that* 1.966 assembly where there was nothing concluded on, the report neuerthelesse en∣creasing the matter (as the manner is) and being bruted at Constantinople for otherwise then the truth, was the cause that diuers did blame that councell, who [ 20] thinking to remedy a mischiefe, fell into a greater and a more dangerous.

Now, the Senate being aduertized by Lodouico Gritti, who as Ambassador to Iohn King of Hungary had followed Soliman to Constantinople, of the Turk•…•…s* 1.967 suspition, resolued to dispatch an Ambassadour to the great Lord, to acquaint him with the peace made with the Emperour, and with the reasons that mooued them therevnto: and also to assure him of the Senates firme and constant desire, euer to continue friends to the Ottomans: and if he should perceiue Soliman to be well inclined towards them, then to renue the Articles of peace. The Senate did not without cause vse all these respects and demonstrations of friendship to Soliman, because that not long before, at his returne from Belgrade, he had sent Ibraim Bei his Ambassador to Venice, to acquaint them with that which had 〈◊〉〈◊〉 [ 30] in Hungary, and par•…•…icularly how that he had restored King Iohn their friend and Confederate to his Kingdome: he did besides, send an other Chiaus to the Senate, to entreate them to send their Ambassador to Constantinople to be pre∣sent at the sollem•…•…ity of the circumcision of two of his sonnes; and at the same time he vsed great liberalit y towards them, by giuing them for a present a thou∣sand Canthars of Salt-peter, brought from Alexandria hauing heard that the Ve∣netians did need it.

Thomaso Moceniga was chosen for this commission, who within few daies after did set forwards on his iourney with Francisco Barbaro, who was chosen Baylif, to succeed Pedro Zene, who being sent as Ambassadour to the Porte of the great [ 40] Lord, had borne himselfe as Vice-bailise for the space of seuen yeeres. This Ambassage came in a very opportune season to Constantinople, for the respects aboue mentioned: for the Croizade hauing beene published, and the report and expectation thereof being very great, by reason that the preachers in their pul∣pits had exhorted all the people to contribute towards the enterprize against the In•…•…idels, Soliman had conceiued a certaine opinion in his minde, that the Veneti∣ans, after the accord made at Bolognia, had with the other Christian Princes con∣spired against him: whereby measuring all their actions past, he did among o∣ther matters complaine, for that by the peace they had giuen a great summe* 1.968 of money to the Princes of the house of Austria his enemies which had the [ 50] more enabled them to make warre vpon him, adding besides therevnto, that because they had not acquainted him therewith, till the conclusion of the busi∣nesse, they had not performed the part of a State that was his friend, such an one as •…•…he Signory made shew to be.

But all these rumours beeing already spread abroad amongst the Bashas, and other men of note, did at the arriuall of the Ambassadours, vanish, where∣vpon,* 1.969 was speedily renued and confirmed the league, on the same conditions as it was before. Then the Ambassadours were present at the feast and sollem∣nity of the circumcision of his children, which was done with great pompe, cost and royall magnificence, in all which shewes, the Venetians did still hold a very honorable ranke.

During these great feasts and sollemnities, Soliman being in deed inuited to great attempts, did in his minde ruminate on affaires of consequence, he did oftentimes discourse with his Bashaes concerning the raising of an army where∣with [ 10] to returne into Hungary and Germany, to ouerthrow the power of the Au∣strian Princes; by reason whereof he dispatched matters of great importance: he determined to send a great Nauy to sea, intending vpon occasion, to exe∣cute some braue exploit, but especially to assure the sea by all meanes, which* 1.970 the Gallies of the Knights of Rhodes did continually scoure, who hauing plan∣ted themselues in the Isle of Malta, giuen vnto them by the Emperour, did no∣thing but scoure and molest all the seas, and chiefly those which belonged to the Turkes.

Soliman at the same time, thought on the affaires of peace by determining to cause all marchandizes to be brought to Constantinople, with the spices which [ 20] * 1.971 were brought from the Leuant to Alexandria, and to other markets of his Em∣pire, meaning (as he said) to make that city, the seate of the Empire, to abound in all things, and chiefly in gold, and therefore he had commanded all stran∣gers not to buy silkes or spices any where but at Constantinople, whither he caused them to be brought; with great store of such commodities which he had bought with his owne money.

These things did greatly discontent the Venetians, as well in regard of the warre he determined to make, as for the change of the trafficke: for al-be-it his meaning was to assaile others and not them, yet neuerthelesse, growing mighty by the ruine of other Princes, his power was fearefull to the Veneti∣ans, [ 30] and the diuiding of his army, did still giue trouble and molestation to the Republike, and did likewise put them to expence, by taking away trafficke from* 1.972 the vsuall and ordinary places, which did much disturbe the businesse of Mar∣chants. These considerations did mooue the Venetians to entreate the King of Hungary, who already did treat of an agreement with Ferd•…•…nand, to embrace this businesse, thereby to deliuer Christendome from so many mischiefs. They made the same request to the King of Poland, who was already a mediator in that agree∣ment, to pursue it to the end. They did likewise solicite Lodouico Gritti at Constan∣tinople, whose fauour and authority did daily encrease at the Port of the great Lord, to coole, by meanes of the Basha, that great heate of Solimans, to cause [ 40] his army to depart, by shewing vnto him how carefull the Republike was to keepe the nauigation free and safe from Pirates: and for the other likewise, to hinder the transportation of the commerce to Constantinople, which could not be done but with the great hurt and losse of all forraine nations.

Now, wholy to keepe the Turkes from arming themselues and entring into* 1.973 the Venetian Gulphe, The Senate commanded the Prouidator of the army, to aduertize the Gallies of Malta, no more to come vpon their Gulphe, nor to hurt those vessels which sailed on the Leuant seas which they held, and that he should threaten to disarme them if they did otherwise. The Turkes held this for a greeuous wrong▪ and complayning of the Venetians, said, that it did not be∣seeme [ 50] the friendship which they made shew to beare to the great Lord, to suffer them in their country before their faces to be so badly delt with, because that they* 1.974 presuming vpon the forces and prouisions of the Republike, had not entertained any armed vessels.

The Emperour being in the meane time come to Ausbourg, did there con∣noke an assembly, where he caused his brother▪ Ferdinand to be elected King of the Romaines: then treating of affaires concerning religion, the Protestants craued the celebration of a generall councell, where their opinions, touching saith, might be examined and concluded, which was a pretence to collour their cause with the authority of Religion▪ The Catholikes likewise for other respects, desired a councell, hoping that the authority of the decrees that would there* 1.975 be made, should suffice, if not to diuert the mindes of the chiefe of the Heretikes from their errors, yet at least to reduce part of the multitude to the soundest o∣pinion; so as the one and other of them required one selfe same thing, namely to [ 10] haue a General Councell called.

The Emperour being desirous to satisfie this earnest request of all Germany, as also, because it fell out very opportunely for his affaires, to appease the cau∣ses of tumults, and contumacy of the people in that Prouince, did very much presse the Pope to conuoke the councell and promised him, to the end he should not feare to haue his authority and dignity endangered, to be there in person, and to haue a particular care of him. The Pope, perceiuing the small hope* 1.976 that was in it of any great good, and fearing rather some occasion of other disor∣ders, without making any open refusall, he answered, That for diuers respects, it was not yet time to treat thereof, because that peace was not yet well established [ 20] amongst the Princes of Christendome, which ought first of al to be looked vnto, to the end that all of them being vnited together, might meete there, to aide and fauour the Councel.

The Protestants therevpon being more earnest, and the Pope fearing that it would breed some greater inconuenience, beganne to detest that Nation, and to* 1.977 propound, that they were to be chastised with temporall armes, whereof, he of∣ten discoursed by letters, not only with the Emperour, but likewise with the Ve∣netian Senate, to whom of purpose he sent his Nuncio, to exhort them, therein to interpose their councell, authority and forces, by intreating the Empe∣rour to harken therevnto, and the easier to draw him to it, to offer him a summe [ 30] of money.

But the Senate being of a contrary minde, sought to disswade him from it,* 1.978 and in praysing his good meaning they shewed him, how that to take armes at such a time, and without vrgent necessity, was nothing else but to shew that he was afraide of a most iust cause (whereof all men were desirous to be assured) by preuenting with force, the power which the concourse and fauour of the people might bring to the aduerse party: That it did not beseeme him, who maintained reason and truth, to flie from the triall thereof, especially by the Scriptures and by the same reason; and not to impose a necessity vpon the Protestant Princes to raise their forces, and thereby to make their cause to be more fauoured by the [ 40] people, and accounted to haue some shew of honesty, by opposing themselues against the violence which would be done to them by comming in armes: That the Princes of Italy were whole drawne drie of money by reason of the late wars: The Electors of the Empire were doubtfull in such a case, what part to take, and more desirous of peace then warre, as their Ambassadours doe affirme, who for the same purpose were sent to the Emperour at Bruxells: The free cities of Germany, are resolute in no sort to aide or fauour the Emperour if hee should seeke rather to preuaile by force then reason: and the Emperour is to weake of himselfe to leauy sufficient forces to ouer-throw the Princes and people be∣ing risen. [ 50]

The Pope being mooued by these reasons, or by the anthority of the Senate, to whom he much referred himselfe, hauing changed his minde, desisted from sending his Nuncio to the Emperour as hee had determined: whereby this trea∣tie was broken off. And to speake truely, it was then thought most fit to

consider rather how to resist the Turkes deseignes, and to keepe (as much as might be) the forces of Christendome vnited together, and chieflly those of Germany who were to susteine the first attempts of the Barbarians, by reason that it was held for certaine that Soliman, being proud and haughty, could not digest his shamefull discamping from before Vienna which he could not take & that he was 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to returne thither with a mightier army, the which, according to the common report, he was already preparing.

The Emperour in this regard, did rather encline to peace then warre, and* 1.979 〈◊〉〈◊〉 making any solid resolution, was content for that time to set downe cer∣•…•… rules, concerning religion, vntil the next future councell. He likewise desi∣red, [ 10] the better to reduce all matters to peace and quiet, to end the controuersies which remained vndecided betwixt the Archduke Fedinana and the Republike of Venice: wherevpon, he commanded to choose vmpiers according to that which they had concluded; wherevnto al be it that the Senate did not onely consent, but did likewise seeme greatly to desire it, by soliciting the deciding of the contro∣uersie, yet neuerthelesse nothing succeeded thereof, contrary to the desire of both parties, by reason of the difficulty they had to name a third person, if it were so that the vmpiers could not agree amongst themselues. The Archduke chose the Duke of Mantua, the Bishop of Ausbourg, and the Popes Nuncio residing with himselfe; And the Venetians made choice of the Bishop Theatin•…•…, the Arch∣bishop [ 20] * 1.980 of Salerne, who was of the family of the Adorni and the Popes Nuncio refiding at Venice, but those which pleased one of the parties, displeased the o∣ther, whereby matters remained still in controuersie, to the great preiudice and hurt of the subiects on the frontiers, and caused an alteration amongst the Princes.

Besides this, the Emperour had not yet surrendred (which was the very latter end of the yeere) the castle of Milan nor the city of Coma to Francis Sforza, as he was bound to doe: wherevpon the Venetians being desirous to haue it perfor∣med as soone as might be, for feare least time might produce some sinister acci∣dent, [ 30] and Francis Sforza hauing not altogether meanes of his owne to furnish so* 1.981 great a sum of money, as was to be paied to the Emperour, they did lend him fifty thousand Ducats to make vp the payment, the which they re-embursed, vpon a bargain of salt they made with him, by which meanes the castle of Milan and the city of Coma, were rendred to Sforza, to the Venetians great content, whose only end was to assure the Du•…•…chy of Milan to the Duke.

The Venetians great desire to conserue that State for Sforza, was the cause, that he seeming to haue some distrust of the French, entreated the Senate to in∣terpose their authority with that King, that he might desist from his great war∣like preparations, which he was reported to make to renue his old claime to Mi∣lan: and notwithstanding that they gaue small credit to that report, yet ne∣uerthelesse, [ 40] to shew their constant desire of the preseruation and defense of that State, and to take from the French all suspition that they would euer separate themselues from the Emperour and the other Confederates, they determined to make it knowne to all men, as well in France, as in the Courts of other Princes. But the Emperour being displeased with this declaration, did sum∣mon them besides, to arme the number of souldiers which the Signory was bound to leauy by the treaty of Confederacy. The Venetians therevpon sup∣posing that he aimed at some particular deseigne of his owne, and would draw them to more then they were tied vnto by the league, answered, that the affaires of Italy standing at such a stay, as there was nothing to be more hoped for then [ 50] an assured peace, they were not to be vrged to so great expences.

Now at the same time, the Venetians supposing that King Francis, beeing newly married, and hauing recouered his children, should rather thinke on feast∣ing, and pleasure, then on the trauails of warre, to make it knowne that they

desired to partake some part of his content, sent into France, Iohn Pisani, Procu∣rator* 1.982 of Saint Marke•…•…, their extraordinary Ambassadour to reioyce with him in the name of the Republike. But he hauing discouered some true likelihoods, said boldly, that they would not suffer the peace and publike quiet to be troubled or interrupted, and they would neuer faile in ought wherevnto they were tied by their confederacy.

In the Interim of these negociations, the Republike enioying an assured peace,* 1.983 the Senate tooke care to re-establish it in her ancient preheminences, which it had enioyed before the last warres, and amongst others, to appoint all the Bi∣shops belonging to their owne State: for which hauing made many requests [ 10] to the Pope, without receiuing any certaine resolution they seized on the tem∣poralties of diuers Bishoprikes which the Pope had giuen: whereat his Holi∣nesse being incensed, made shew that he would resent it, and to those ends sought aloccasions to breake off from them.

The Senate considering the difficulty of the matter, did consult therevpon in open Councell, where the opinions were very different, some affirming that it was not good at that time to prouoke the Pope, but to deferre the matter till some other time, and to quit the seizure: Others of the contrary opinion coun∣celled to pursue the businesse, and that the Pope would at the last be enforced to grant their demaunds, so as in this diuersity of opinions the matter remay∣ned [ 20] vndecided. The Senate hauing at last found a meanes of agreement, it was decre•…•…d, that in fauour of the Pope, the temporalties of those that had beene promoted by his Holinesse, should be surrendred to them, in the cities of their obedience: and yet neuerthelesse they did not giue ouer their demand, saying, that what they had done was onely for the respect and reuerence which they did beare to Pope Clement, hoping that he would grant them more then they craued: the Pope neuerthelesse, who at first made shew that hee demaun∣ded nothing else but that, as a signe of obedience, without beeing satisfied, stood vpon farre greater difficulties. But other matters of greater importance happening, caused them to sue to the Pope, and to haue good correspondence [ 30] with him.

Soliman hauing made peace with the King of Persia in the beginning of the* 1.984 yeere 1531. determined to assaile Christendome on all sides both by sea and land, and for that purpose had sent his Standard of Generall to Cariadine sur∣named Barbarossa, a famous Pirate, for his great experience in marine mat∣ters, who was renowned for the infinite mischiefes which he had done to Chri∣stians, and hauing thus receiued him into the number of his captains, had aduerti∣zed the Venetians thereof, to the end they should no more vse him as a Pirate, but as one of his owne Porte.

And although the Bashas did o•…•…tentimes affirme that Soliman would con∣tinue [ 40] in league and friendship with the Republike, yet neuerthelesse, it see∣med neither safe nor honourable to leaue the possession of the sea, to the dis∣cretion of that barbarous Nation, who was mighty, and armed: wherevpon it behooued them to make an extraordinary prouision of Gallies and soul∣diers: a matter which came to them in an ill time, by reason that their pub∣like treasure being exhausted by the late warres, could not furnish them with* 1.985 money to suffize so great expences: therefore it was necessary to haue re∣course to other meanes, and amongst others, it seemed vnto them that the Tenthes leauied vpon the Clergy of their Dominions would bee suffitient for that businesse. [ 50]

Now they sought in all humility to obtaine it of the Pope, but they could not thereby surmont the difficulties wherewith hee drew the matter forth in length▪ but to the double discommodity and griefe of the Venetians, he made ac∣count to leauy two Tenthes vpon all the goods of the Italian Clergie, for to

employ them (as he said) on the releefe of the Cantons of the Catholike Swisses, against the other protestant Cantons, who threatned them with warre; and by this meanes the Republike was frustrate of the commodity which it hoped for by the Tenths, which beeing raised vpon their State, seemed to belong vn∣to them vpon so iust a cause: as also because the said leauy of Tenths, gaue some suspition to the Turke, that it was done for some league practized against him.

The Senate neuerthelesse, al-be-it they were depriued of that helpe, and out* 1.986 of hope to obtaine it, did not cease to make prouision of all things necessary, but surmounting all difficulties that were offered, they determined presently [ 10] to arme fifty Gallies, they which they sent to sea well furnished with all necessa∣ries: But these great warlike preparations did by little and little vanish of them∣selues: because that Soliman being come to Andrinople, intending (as it was said) to take order for his preparations, beeing carried away with the pleasure of hunting, did daily delay the affaires of warre, so as that yeere remained peace∣able and quiet on his part.

The Venetians nauall army in the meane time was not idle, for the sea being* 1.987 full of Pirates, who beeing ioyned together in great numbers did scoure all the Seas, and hindred the nauigation and commerce, they were all of them chased, broken, or taken prisoners, to the great profit of all men, and to the Vene∣tians [ 20] praise.

The King of Hungary at the same time, notwithstanding that he had all his warlike preparations well ordered and in readinesse, and that hee was stronger then Ferdinand, yet neuerthelesse whilest he expected the Turkish aide for his bet∣ter safety, fearing the great forces which the Emperour was reported to leauy for his brothers aide, or desyring rather to end the matter in friendly sort, then to come to strokes, and namely destrusting his owne people, did not enterprize* 1.988 any thing: so as both parties being quiet, he sent Iohn Alasco his Ambassadour to the Emperour, of whom obteyning no certaine resolution, he went to Ferdi∣nand, [ 30] where finding likewise as great difficulties, hee determined to goe to the other Princes of Germany, to treate with them of his Kings businesse, but Ferdinand taking his safe conduct from him, hee was enforced to returne into Hungary.

King Iohn neuerthelesse, did not cease by other messengers to aduertize those Princes that were assembled in the Diets held in sundry places of Germany, and chiefly the Protestants, to diuert them from aiding Ferdinand, that Soliman ac∣counted those his owne frends or enemies, who shewed themselues frends or ene∣mies to the Realme of Hungary.

This King, not to omit any thing, did likewise send his Ambassadours to Ve∣nice, to entreat the Senate, to be a meanes, as well to the Emperour, as to the [ 40] Pope, that embracing his cause, they might reduce matters to some honourable agreement. The Senate perceiuing that King Iohns intent was to trie all meanes euen to extremity, that he might keepe the Realme of Hungary to himselfe, al-be-it that he had the Turkish army at his command fot his defense, to take a∣way* 1.989 the cause of new troubles in Christendome, they did willingly harken to this request, and were desirous to further it to the Pope, but all their remonstran∣ces were to small purpose, because that his Holinesse, fauouring more the cause of Ferdinand, then that of King Iohn, seemed to consent that the matter should ra∣ther be determined by armes then by accord.

Now within a while after, the rumor of warre beeing blowne abroad euery [ 50] where, how that Soliman resolued with a mighty army to come downe into Hun∣gary to beseege the City of Strigonium which Ferdinand kept, the Pope seat the Bishop of Verona his Nuncio to Venice, to know of the Senate, their determinati∣on, & what they wold do, if the Turke should return with his army into Hungary,

and if all Christian Princes would vnite themselues together against that com∣mon enemy.

The Senators vpon this proposition were very doubtfull and perplexed. For zeale to Religion on the one side did mooue them, and the feare likewise for their owne State, the Turke waxing so mighty a neighbour: on the other side, their doubt not to finde in the Christian Princes such steadfast constancy as to expose themselues to necessary trauailes and dangers, held them backe: so as in this diuersity of opinions, they answered the Pope, that the Venetian Senate had* 1.990 euer desired and sought the good of Christendome: but as the same did sodaine∣ly incite them to vndertake all matters for the seruice thereof, euen so they [ 10] were sory, that the condition of the times, and the particular estate of •…•…heir affaires would not permit them to shew it in effect. That the greatest Princes of Chri∣stendome were at the same time at discord and dissention amongst themselues, so as it could not be promised, that they would vnite themselues against that common enemy, that the forces alone of the Signory were to weake to march a∣gainst him: besides, that their State, for the space of two thousand miles, from the Isle of Ciprus unto the end of Dalmatia was neere neighbour to the Turkes, where there were ordinarily great numbers of Citizens, and much wealth, a mat∣ter with indeed did enforce them to temporize with them, and kept them from so easily declaring themselues their enemies: That they did therefore much [ 20] commend the Popes goodnesse and wisedome, for that he did so well foresee and prouide for the perills of Christendome: And that they did hope that their excuses would bee entertained of all men as most iust and reasonable.

Ferdinand in the meane time, al-be-it he perceiued that all these treaties of league would come to nothing, yet neuerthelesse, promising vnto himselfe* 1.991 to bee able to obtaine by armes a more aduantageous peace then that which King Iohn had propounded vnto him, contemned all treaties that were offe∣red, by reason that hee had beene declared King of Romaines in the assem∣bly at Colein, and thereby successor to his brother Charles in the Empire, and had [ 30] moreouer obtained sundry aides in the Diets held at Lins and at Prague, beside the great help which he hoped to haue from his brother.

The Venetians neuerthelesse without giuing ouer their former proposition of peace, hauing sent their Ambassadours vnto Ferdinand, for to congratulate in the common-wealths name his new dignity, caused him to entertaine the* 1.992 motion of peace, exhorting him to embrace it, and to answere the hope which men had conceiued of him, that as a wise and vertuous Prince he would haue the peace and quiet of Christendome in singular recommendation.

All those that had regard to the publike good, and did neerely consider the conditions of those times, desired peace, because they did fore-see that great warres and calamities would arise in other places, by reason that the Kings of [ 40] France and England perceiuing a goodly occasion offered to enuade the Em∣perours dominions, who was enforced to turne his forces against the Turkes, to* 1.993 defend the Estates of his house and the Empire, did practize sundry waies to make warre vpon him, the one beeing prouoked with an antient desire to re∣couer the State of Milan, and the other for a disdaine newly conceiued against Charles for defending his Aunts cause, wife to the King, whom he had put away that hee might marry with an other, therefore they had ioyntly practized the German Princes who did not greatly affect the Emperour, and in the meane time they armed: so as it seemed that they tarried for nothing else to make warre vpon him, but till the Turke should beginne, and thereby draw the Emperors forces in∣to [ 50] another place, according to their common report.

Soliman, who had dayly intelligence of the Christian Princes deseignes, much esteeming the selfe same occasions to see the Emperour at one time busied in diuers and sundry places, seemed euery day to be more resolute to defend and

maintaine the Realme of Hungary for King Iohn his friend and Confederate, de∣siring to recouer his reputation which he supposed he had lost at his retreat from before Vienna.

At the beginning then of the yeere 1532. the Turke being come to Andrino∣ple, acquainted all men what way he ment to take: but before his departure,* 1.994 shewing both in word and deed, what great account he made of the Venetians friendship, he called home the great Gallies which he kept in Soria and Alexan∣dria, for the aboue mentioned causes, and freely suffered them to traffick in all places as they were wont to doe, caring no more to reduce the trade to Con∣stantinople. Then being carefull to raise his army, he sent for all the Spaches [ 10] from Greece (these are horse-men, vnto whom the Prince giueth for wages, the possession of certaine lands during their liues) to come to him with their armes and horse; he demanded likewise of the Tartarians, Valachians and Tran∣siluanians, the aide which by their confederacies they were bound to send him, so as marching into the field, and being come vpon the confines of Hungary he* 1.995 found that there were a hundred and fifty thousand fighting men in his army, amongst whom, the most esteemed, were twenty thousand Ianissaries, who fight on foote, being brought vp from their youth in the exercize of martiall discipline.

Soliman then being arriued with his whole army before Belgrade, a City sea∣ted [ 20] in low Hungary, he caused it to be published that he would enforce the Em∣perour* 1.996 to come to battaile with him, promising to himselfe easily to vanquish him, threatning with insolent speeches to driue him forth of Germany, and to make himselfe Lord of all the States of the Westerne Empire, which (as he said) belonged vnto him, as true Emperor and Lord of Constantinople.

Vpon the report of the Turkes arriuall, the Emperour Charles likewise hauing assembled a mighty army from all parts of Christendome, and such an one as in* 1.997 the memory of man, the like had not beene seene, went and encamped before the city of Vienna: determyning there to attend the enemy.

All men were attentiue to see what would be the issue of this warre, especially [ 30] the Venetians, who vnder-hand sauored the Christian party, hauing suffered their subiects to goe, as of themselues to the Emperors army.

The effects neuerthelesse of these two great armies were farre otherwise, then were the expectation and feare which men had, because that Soliman en∣tring very late into Hungary, beeing not able to come sooner, as well in re∣gard of the greatnesse of his preparations, as for the distance of the way, did not directly march towards the Emperours army, but hauing onely made a* 1.998 shew of warre, and some few incursions, hee returned to Constantinople. The Emperour (who had not stirred from before the walles of Vienna, not going forth to met the the Turkes, notwithstanding that he had intelligence of [ 40] their approches) being assured of their retreat, did on a sodaine breake vp his ar∣my, and burning with an extreame desire to returne into Spaine, after that he had* 1.999 left certaine Italian foot-men with his brother, and some numbers of Lansquenets hee tooke his iourney into Italy, from thence to saile into Spaine.

But both the Emperour and the Turke, hauing at one time great nauies at sea, the Venetians thought that it behooued them for the safety of their owne State, to arme likewise, because they would not by any meanes bee ta∣ken vnprouided, and to these ends determined to augment their nauy with a good number of Gallies: wherevpon, by the Senates command, twenty gallies were speedily armed in the Isles of Candy, Zant, and Corsoù, and in the Cities [ 50] of Dalmatia, so as their nauall army amounted to the number of threescore Gallies, of which Vincenz•…•… Capel was made General, with expresse commission to take great heed that no hurt might be done to the townes and subiects of

the Signory, and that the Imperialls and the Turkes might bee vsed alike as friends, by furnishing them with Hauens and victualls, but not with armes, not war like munitions, the Senate resoluing to haue firme friendship and correspon∣dency with both of them.

Now the Turkish Armie beeing come vpon the Leuant seas, conducted by* 1.1000 Imerall, to the number of fourescore saile, reckoning with the Galleys twenty lesser vessels, and that of the Imperialls vpon the Westerne seas, which consisted of forty light Galleys, with certaine great shippes of warre, vnder the command of André Doria, beeing yet vncertaine what the Captaines deseignes were, and what way they would take: the Generall Capel went and spent the time betwixt [ 10] Zante and Corfou giuing order, according to his commission, that the subiects of the Signory might haue no harme, and to auoide likewise the occasion to meete with these armies, that no suspition might bee giuen of fauouring one more then an other.

Imerall beeing at last come to Preuesa, Capello remained still at Corfou, from whence he sent one of his Galleys to visit him; the which the Barbarian taking in good part, promised him that no harme should bee done to the subiects of the Signory; and the Turkish fleet arriuing afterwards in the Isle of Zante, and in other places belonging to the Republick, tooke nothing away frō them by force. As for Doria, hee departed from Sicily where hee had made long aboade and sai∣led [ 20] towards Greece; and vnderstanding that the Venetian fleete lay at Zante,* 1.1001 hee was desirous to saile thither with all his Galleys, to haue some occasion to talke with the Generall Capello, intending, as it was thought, and as himselfe hath since then affirmed, that by causing the Turkes to suspect the vnion of their Ar∣mies, to enforce the Venetians to ioyne with him, of which vnion hee had before written to the Senate, with great offers and hopes: and the Emperors Ambassa∣dor, resident at Venice, hauing earnestly intreated that it might be so, demanded of them, that if vpon occasion the two fleetes of the Emperor and the Turke* 1.1002 should fight one with another, whether they would haue their Generall to ayde and fauour the Turkes: wherevnto the Senate readily replied, that they did great∣ly [ 30] esteeme the Emperors friendship, and were well disposed to entertaine and keepe it, but they were not determined vpon his occasion, or for any other vaine hope, to breake the league with so mighty an enemy.

These two Armies then, Imperiall and Turkish, remaining quiet for feare one* 1.1003 of another, did in a manner spend that whole summer without dooing any thing. At the last, the Turkish fleete beeing much weakned by the Pestilence, began to retire towards Negrepont, to goe afterwards (as it was thought) to winter at Constantinople. Doria beeing emboldened by this retreat, sailed with his Army* 1.1004 towards Morea, resoluing to besiege Coron, which hee tooke after some small resistance of the Turkish garrison that lay there, hee did the like to Patras, but it [ 40] was by composition, then winter drawing on, hee retired into Sicily without executing any other notable action.

Both these Armies beeing retired, the Venetians meaning to bee no longer at such great expence in vaine, did disarme the Galleys of encrease, with some other old ones which were in the Army. These things were done foorth of Italy, the which in the meane time was quiet in all places; but that the Duke of Milan resolued to send his forces against the Captaine of the Castle of Mus, who bee∣ing desirous to aduance himselfe by some nouelty, and vpon hope that the Lans∣quenets would assist him, had taken certaine places from the Grisons, and did sore threaten the citty of Coma. The Duke of Milan vpon this report, sent Iohn Baptist•…•… [ 50] Speciano, one of his houshold Gentlemen to Venice, to entreat the Senate to aide him to preuent the Captains designes; the Senate answered that the Duke ought therein to beare himself modestly for feare of altering the quiet of Italy, & giuing

occasion to those that were desirous of troubles to practize other nouelties: but when need should be, he should find in them the same readines to helpe him, which he had at other times experience of. This caused that small stirre soone to be appeased, which would haue fallen out otherwise, if the Venetians had taken armes. For the Grisons hauing by the aid of certaine Cantons of the Suisses leuied certaine nombers of soldiers, did enforce the Captaine of the Castle to an agreement, whereunto the Duke willingly consented, so soone as he vnderstood the Venetians resolution, and had at last, by meanes of a summe of money, the towne of Locquaca and the Castle of Mus restored to him.

The Duke of Ferrara did at the same time, by the Emperors sentence, obtaine [ 10] * 1.1005 Modena and Regio, the which imported likewise, that the Pope receiuing an hun∣dred thousand Ducats of him by a certaine time, and reducing the reuenew ther∣of to the ancient forme, should againe newly inuest him in the iurisdiction of Ferrara, asbeit it was against the Popes will, who demanding caution and assu∣rance for the summer, fifteene Venetian Gentlemen were giuen vnto him, whom the Senate did promise should be answerable for it, whervppon he accepted it. This Duke was not long before reconciled to the Venetians, who restored vnto him a goodly and magnificent Pallace, which hee had in Venice, it beeing taken from him by reason of the last warres, and had beene giuen vnto his Predeces∣sors by the Signory. [ 20]

According then to this sentence the Emperour consigned Modena to the Duke of Ferrata, which till then he had hept in deposito, by reason whereof there had beene, for a long time, betwixt the Pope and that Duke, neither open warre or an assured peace, for it vexed the Pope to quit those two Citties, which he had so* 1.1006 much sought after.

The Emperor beeing speedily come into Italy, sent word to the Pope how desirous he was to talke with him againe at Bolognia, for diuers great considera∣tions, and cheefely to renew the Confederacy, made before betwixt them, to the end to comprehend therein all the Italians, and to taxe the summe of money, which euery one ought to contribute, if the French should inuade Italy: for hee [ 30] had intelligence that the French had some deseigne vpon Genoa, pretending by reason of their particular claimes and interests, that they might doe it without breaking the agreement made at Madrill or Cambray: as also because that Genoa was not mentioned in their treaty of the last league, but only the state of Milan* 1.1007 and the Realme of Naples.

The Pope seemed to be highly pleased with this enteruiew, for hauing propoun∣ded to marry his Neece to the second sonne of France, and fearing least the Em∣peror distasting it, would refuse to passe on any further in the marriage already de∣termined and concluded betwixt Alexandro de Medicis his nephew, and the Lady Marguerite his naturall daughter, sought all meanes to entertaine the Emperour [ 40] and to satisfie him in all things; therefore he sent word to all the Potentates of Ita∣ly, to send their Commissioners to Bolognia, where the meeting should be, there for to renew the Confederacy according to the Emperors desire.

This proposition did for diuers reasons displease the Venetians: First for feare least the Turke should suspect that the renewing of the league was rather made against him, then for the defense of Italy, with whom they were to deale with great respect. Next they thought it to be against reason, so to contemne the in∣terests and deseignes of the French King, which might beget great discontent in him, which might turne to the losse and detriment of the Signory. And then, that the Emperors intention, to renew this first league, being only to comprehend [ 50] Genoatherein, the same might displease the Turke and the French: The Turke, for that he hated that Citty and Nation, from whom that fleet came which had taken Coron, and done him so much harme; the French because that the assurance

of Genoa would enforce them to take armes against them, by reason of the re∣port which was already currant, how that they had an enterprise vpon it. And lastly, they were in doubt that this renewing of the league was a cunning of the Emperors, to cause the French King and Soliman to suspect the Republick, and for to reduce it to this point, not onely strictly to ioyne and confederate it selfe with him, but likewise to depend wholy vpon him and his pleasure, and altoge∣ther to follow his fortune, by declaring it selfe a friend to his friends, and enemy to his enemies.

The Venetians made answer to the Emperors Agents which came from Rome for that purpose, that they were willing to maintaine and keepe the confederacy [ 10] * 1.1008 which they had made with the Emperor, and the other Confederates, beeing de∣sirous of the peace and quiet of Italy. The Emperor in the meane time came forth of Germany into Italy, vnto whom the Senate sent foure Ambassadors, Marco Minio, Ieronimo Pesare, Lorenzo Bragadino, and Marco Foscare, who found him at Pontiebe, and waited vpon him thorow their State with all the honor that might bee, presenting him with confi•…•…ures and other sweet meates, where in they spent aboue ten thousand crownes.

The Emperor beeing come to Bolognia, about the latter end of the yeare, the Pope speedily arriued there, where were shewed the selfe same demonstrati∣ons [ 20] of friendship and familiarity as at the former time. Then comming to con∣ferre together at the beginning of Ianuary of the next yeare 1533. to treate of important affaires, and chiefly to renew the last league made in the selfe same place, by reason whereof all the other Princes of Italy had sent their Commissi∣oners thither: Marc-Antonio Veniero, and Marc-Antonio Contaren, Ambassa∣dors of the Republick, the one with the Pope, and the other with the Emperor, were called, and earnestly intreated by these Princes, to perswade the Senate to* 1.1009 hearken to that businesse, which concerned the safety of all men, and the quiet of Italy, which they so much desired. The Pope, besides, these exhortations made to the Ambassadors, sent Roberto Magio, his Nuncio, to Venice, albeit it was more, (according to the common report) to satisfie the Emperor, then for any [ 30] desire hee had there-vnto.

The Venetians had vsed all meanes possible to keepe themselues from beeing* 1.1010 called into it, by promising carefully to obserue that which had beene agreed be∣twixt them, but beeing at last enformed to deliuer their resolution, they refused to renew the confederacie, or to amplifie the obligations therein contained, al∣leadging for their excuses (not mentioning the Freneh) how that the Turke had notice of the former made at Bolognia for the safety of Italy, so that comming now to renew it, in regarde all the deseignes of Christendome were presently meant against him, hee would distrust it, and vndoubtedly suspect that the Vene∣tians had a hand in it. Besides, it was sufficiently knowne to all men, that for the [ 40] safety of Italy, there was no need to renew the league, in regard of the meanes they had to resist all attempts which should bee made against it: for if they came by Sea, the Emperors fleete was mighty enough to hinder their approaches: as for any enterprises by land, the league had prouided for it, and among others, for the matter of Genoa, whither they could not come but thorow the State of Milan, which was comprehended in the league; the which experience did suffici∣ently manifest, no man hauing since three yeares (that the league was contract∣ed) dared to raise any stirres in Italy, no not those who were desirous to trouble the peace thereof.* 1.1011

The Emperor beeing not satisfied with this answer, and desirous speedily to [ 50] returne into Spaine, hauing already remained two moneths at Bolognia, was more earnest with the Pope to conclude one betwixt themselues, refuting all the reasons which hee for his part could alledge to the contrary: so as they began to

treate of the Articles of the Confederacie, which beeing determined and con∣cluded betwixt the Pope, the Emperor, and the other Potentates of Italy, name∣ly the Dukes of Milan and Ferrara, the Citties of Genoa, Sienna, Luca, and Flo∣rence; notwithstanding that the latter was comprehended in the promises made by the Pope, it was published at the latter end of February, and by the same, each of those that were therein named, were bound to contribute to the warres, accor∣ding to his strength and meanes, by gathering together in the meane time a stock of one hundred and ten thousand crownes, and monethly to furnish the like summe, if warre should happen; and in time of peace fiue and twenty thou∣sand, for the entertainment of the Captaines and other soldiers: and at the same [ 10] instant, Antonio de Leua, by a generall consent, was declared Generall of the league, with a decree, that •…•…ee should remaine in the Dutchy of Milan.

But it was a matter truly worthy of note, tha•…•… albeit the Common-wealth would not consent to this treaty, nor in any sort deale therein, yet neuerthelesse it was named in the publication thereof, and in the impression that was made of it, either to make that action to bee of more account, or else to cause the Com∣mon-wealth to bee suspected, and to become odious to other Princes, as it came to passe: for, that impression beeing carried to Constantinople and into Eng∣land, it gaue occasion to those Princes (both of them beeing the Emperours sworne enemies) to complaine thereof to the Senate, and to distrust them. [ 20] This league beeing concluded and published, the Emperour departed from Bo∣lognia, and went to take shipping at Genoa, where fiue and twenty Galleys attended him, vnder the command of Andrè Doria, to saile to Barcelona.

The end of the ninth Booke of the fifth Decade.

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

VMPIERS are in vaine appointed to end the controuersie, betwixt the Venetians and Ferdinand. The Emperors and [ 20] the Turkes Nauall armies, are at one time at Sea without mee∣ting one another. Francisco Dandulo is taken by Pirats and bannished at his returne to Venice. The Venetians take the Moore of Alexandria by night, and presently set him at liberty. Soliman calleth Cariadin Barbarossa the Pirate to his seruice. Henry Duke of Orleance second Sonne to Francis the French King marrieth Katherine de Medicis the Popes Neece. Great troubles in Germany by meanes of the Duke of Wittemberg. Sundry great fleets at one time vpon the Seas. The [ 30] Turkes recouer Coron. The Turkish fleete vpon the Coasts of Calabria. Cari∣adine Barbarossa taketh Tunis. The Death of Pope Clement the seauenth, and the Creation of Pope Paul the third. The Pope taketh armes for the Dutchy of Cameryne. Solimans great friendship towards the Venetians. The Emperors iourney into Affricke where heetaketh Goletta and Tunis. The death of Francis Sforza Duke of Milan. The French King seeketh by all meanes to draw the Venetians to his •…•…ide. The Duke of Sauoy denieth the kings passage thorow his country. The French take Thurin, Fossan, and Pigneroll. [ 40] The Emperor commeth with his army into Prouence. The Kings enterprise vpon Genoa. Antonio de Leua dyeth in Prouence. The Kings deseigne to make vse of the Turke against the Emperor. Diuers wrongs and outrages done to the Venetians in Solimans countries. And lastly the Bascha excuseth all these wrongs as done without Solimans knowledge.

The Tenth Booke of the fifth Decade of the [ 10] Historie of Uenice.

THe Emperor departing from Bolognia to go into Spaine, being come to Cremona, wrote wery louingly to the Se∣nate, giuing them to v•…•…derstand that hee had willingly ad∣mitted their excuses, in that they would not consent to the renewing of the league; and how that hee was desirous to [ 20] doe any thing that might consent them. And signes of friendship thus continuing betwixt those of Austria, & the Republike, both of them seeming to bee very desirous to end the controuersie which was yet vndecided betwixt Firdinand King of the Ro∣mans* 1.1012 and the Signory, concerning the restitution of certaine townes held by Fer∣dinand, which did belong to the Venetians, the Emperor dealing therein, they agreed at last vpon a third man, which was Lodouico Porro a Senator of Milan, Ferdinand hauing chosen for Vmpiers, Ierome Bulfarch a German Doctor, and the Venetians Matheo Auogadre of Bressia, a Doctor and Knight; who being come to Trent, •…•…he Senate likewise sent thither Andre Rosse the Secretary, that he might [ 30] be present there, and acquaint the Senate with the whole businesse: But the Se∣nate hoping afterwards to compose this controuersie by friendly meanes, and by* 1.1013 disbursing a summe of mony, to recouer their fortes of Maran and Gradisca, they commanded Giouani Delfino gouernor of Verona to goe to Trent about that businesse, Yet neuer-thelesse, both in this and other matters, so many difficul∣ties were presented, as the assembly brake vp, without any resolution at all.

Whilest the Christian Princes were busied about these affaires, the Turke de∣termining to recouer Coron, had prepared a mighty fleete for that purpose, which was sent towards those quarters. Doria to giue counterpoize to this Tur∣kish army, caused great numbers of vessells to be armed in sundry places, that he [ 40] might ioyne together the greatest forces he could.

These preparations caused the Venetiens like-wise to arme the Gallies which they had disarmed at the beginning of winter: continuing neuer-the-lesse in their first resolution, not to medle betwixt those Princes, where-vpon, they sent word* 1.1014 to the Generall Capello, who was still in commission, to keepe the same order, and manner of proceeding as hee had done the yeare before, by reason whereof hee sent Francisco Dandulo Captaine of the Gulphe with certaine Gallies into the Gulphe, to gard it against Pi•…•…ats, who being assembled in great numbers did much harme: and for the same purpose hee dispatched foure Gallies to Zante, and to the Promontory of Mailla the Gallion which was a greate shipp of a merueilous [ 50] building well stored with ordnance and soldiers, that place being very commodi∣ous for the Nauigation of the Venetian vessells which sailed into the Leuant, and him-selfe with the residue of the fleete remained neere to Corfou, satisfying him∣selfe, according to the Senates meaning, to assure their owne State, and keepe that

which belonged to the Republick from being spoiled and molested, but yet hee could not so well handle the matter, but that the subiects of the Signory did sust∣taine much harme and many losses, as it often happeneth in such cases. Now Francesco Dandulo being come into the Gulph, towards the coast of Dalmatia with six Galleis descried from farre twelue Galleo•…•…s of the Barbarians, and sup∣posing at first, that they were the Gallies of the Prouidator Canalis, he held on his course, but beeing come within kenning, he perceiued that they were Pirates, wherevpon hauing changed his mind he did put himselfe more to Seaward, de∣termining (as hee after▪wards said) to come and incompasse them that hee might [ 10] fight with them and keepe them from escaping by flight, but, not acquainting the Captaines of the other▪ Gallies with his determination, they supposed that he did put to Sea, not for to fight, but to escape thence, and therefore, tarry∣ing behind, he was only followed by M•…•…rco Cornare who commanded a bastard Galley.

The Pirates beeing come very neere them, and perceiuing their owne aduantage, by reason of the retreat of the other Venetian Gallies, fell vpon them and tooke them, and carried both the men and the vessells into Barbery, and among others,* 1.1015 the Captaine and Cornare, These newes being brought to Venice, did much tro∣ble the Senate, as well in regard of the auda•…•…iousnesse of those the eues, as for the Captaines indis•…•…retion, who thorough his owne fault had caused the Gallies of [ 20] the Signory which were very famous at Sea, to receiue such an affront whereup∣pon, some propounded that it was necessary to send a sufficient number of Gal∣lies* 1.1016 towards the Sea-coasts of Affrick, and cheefely to Gerbes and to Argier, there for to burne all the shipping they could find, and to doe other harmes in re∣uenge of the wrongs they had sustained of that nation: but others confidering that it would not be well done to •…•…urt all the i•…•…habitants of that Cuntrey with whom they traded, and thereby •…•…ut off from the Venetians their traffick and na∣uigations, caused this Councell to be reiected, yet neuerthelesse, to free the common-wealth from disgrace, happened by the default or ignorance of one particular person, Dandulo being returned to Venice, hauing first beene carried [ 30] to Constantinople, and then by the meanes of Gritti, set at liberty, was con∣fined* 1.1017 to Zara, for •…•…ot well behauing himselfe i•…•… this place.

There happaned besides within a while after a more notable accident, whose beginning was much more dangerous, but the end farre more fortunate. Iero∣nimo Canalts, prouidator of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, departed from Corfou with twelue Gal∣lies, to conuoy the great Gallies which were appointed for traffick into Syria and Alexandria, and to safe conduct them from Pirates, who did vsually scoure those Seas; and all of them beeing •…•…ome •…•…ogether neere to the Ile of Candy not farre from the firme land, resolued to •…•…ay and cast an•…•…or there, where the great Gallies lay, some miles distant from the light ones; lying in this sort, about sunne set, vp∣pon [ 40] the Feast day of all Saints, the sentinells which were in the caiges of the great Gallies, descried certaine vessel•…•… which held their course directly towards them, whereof Daniele Bragadino Captaine of the great Gallies hauing speedily aduer∣tized the Prouidator, he supposed •…•…hat they were Pirates▪ wherevppon hee forth∣with brauely resolued to goe meet them, and that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 confirmed him in this opinion, was, the •…•…duertizement which he had receiued, what course the Tur∣kish army held, the which departing from Modon to goe and winter at Con∣stantinople, the Pirates had beene discharged.

Departing then with speed, and beeing come forth a good way to •…•…ea, hee [ 50] found that he had no more then seauen Gallies with him; because that the others remained behind, the Rouers perhaps beeing not so strong or skilfull in sea mat∣ters as were the first, or else the Captaines were not so hardy and valiant▪ but the Pro•…•…idator seeming not greatly to care for that, and performing the part of a good Captaine and skilfull ma•…•…er, commanded all the Galli•…•… that were with

him, each of them like two Lanthornes to deceaue the enemies, by making them to thinke that the number of his vessells, were farre greater then they were: then making a stand in their view, he suffered them to come forward, him-selfe keeping still before the wind to incompasse them at his aduantage. They were twelue Turkish Gallies conducted by the Moores Sonne of Alexandria, Solimans Cap∣taine, who, (the army being dissolued) returned to his quarter into Barbary. This young Moore then hauing descried the Venetian Gallies, keeping on his way with full sailes, was already passed beyond the Prouidators Gallies, either because his intent was not to come any neerer to the Island, or else perceiuing so many Lanthornes he was afraide, and had not the boldnesse to doe so. [ 10]

The Prouidator then enforcing the bankes of Rowers went and assailed them* 1.1018 on their backes, and discharged the ordnance, and beating some of them in flanke, others in poope, he•…•… did greately •…•…urt them, himselfe receauing no harme by the Turkish shot, by reason of the place where hee lay. The cheefe meaning of the Venetian Gallies was to inues•…•… the Moores Admirall Galley, where▪vpon the Prouidator hauing assailed it, there was a fierce fight, by reason of the great num∣ber of Ianissaries that were in it, who valliantly sustayned the assault a long time, but the Prouidator had neere him a Gallie of supplies, which did continually fur∣nish him with soldiers in their sted that were slaine or hurt, to sustaine the fight: wherevpon the Moore beeing 〈◊〉〈◊〉 hurt, dispayring of beeing any longer able [ 20] * 1.1019 to defend his Gallies, and meaning to cast him selfe into the Sea to escape to some other of his Gallies, was taken by the Christian Rowers, and making him-selfe knowne, his life was sa•…•…ed, but his Galley was altogether spoyled, and foure others were taken, and two were sunke, the rest escaped by flight. So soone as the Turke perceiued the Vene•…•…ian Gallies to come towards him, hee had de∣termined to fly, but artificiall •…•…ire was throwne from the Prouidators Gallie which burnt his failes▪ and after▪wards the Helme of the same Gally was broken by a Cannon shot, whereby hee was enforced to tarry and to come to stroakes.

This fortunate successe did highly content the soldiors, and people of Candy, [ 30] but the Magistrates and other men of note were sorry for it, in regard that the vessells did not belong to Pirates but to Soliman, a very mighty Lord, fearing that hee would take it ill, and imagine that affront to bee done to him-selfe, by reason hee was at peace with the Republique: Where-vpon it was thought fit by the Magistrates of Candy, and the Captaines of the Gallies, speedily to send home* 1.1020 these •…•…allies into Barbary, and in the meane time, respectiuely to entertaine this young Turkish Captaine, and to gi•…•…e him kind and curtuous language, excusing that fault by the error of the Nigh•…•….

The report hereof being brought to Venice, the Senate was extreamely gree∣ued thereat, for the selfe same reasons and doubts, and so much the more, for [ 40] that the same yeares store being very smal, the citty was to be furnished with vic∣alls from the Turkes country, where they had not onely obtayned licence to doe it, but had like-wise loden diuers shippes, where-vpon they feared that the same* 1.1021 iniurie would bee badly disgested at that time, as indeed it came to passe. For so soone as the Turkes officers were aduertized thereof, without tarrying for any speciall commandemen•…•… from the Port, they made a stay of the Venetian ships which were come thither for corne. In regard whereof, some propounded to elect a new Prouidator in Canalis sted, and being thus dismissed of his place, to call him home to yeeld an acc•…•…unt for what he had done, thereby in some sort to ap∣pease* 1.1022 discontented Soliman: Diuers others maintaining Canalis cause, did defend it, as a matter done by right of warre, and worthy rather of recompence then of [ 50] punishment, saying that it was a deed vnworthy the Common-wealth to chastice, or at least to make shew so to doe, their officers, that had well and valliantly be∣haued themselues in their place.

This reply ouercame the former proposition, and caused them to determine

to send Daniele Federico Secretary of the Preguais to Constantinople, who was a wise and discreet person, to the end to iustifie by speech, as well before the Bas∣chas as Solimans selfe, what had hapned, by declaring how that their Captaine was enforced to fight, perceiuing in the night so many armed vessels neere to him, not knowing whether they were friends or enemies: and besides, how that the sodaine restitution of the Gallies, done the very next morrow, and the kind en∣tertainment giuen since then to their Captaine could sufficiently witnesse their* 1.1023 good and sinceere meaning towards all those that did belong vnto him. Ibrahim Bascha and Gritti, stood them in great stead to cause Soliman to allow of these ex∣cuses, but yet much more the new warre with Persia, wherevnto Soliman direct∣ing [ 10] the ayme of all his deseignes, would attempt nothing that might diuert him from it: and thereby all matters being appeased at Constantinople, Conalis was with greater praise honored by all men, who dying within a while after in execu∣ting* 1.1024 the same office for the Republick, the Senate in acknowledgment of his good seruice decreed that Antonio his sonne should during his life enioy the reuenew of the Ile of Corfou.

These things happened in the Venetians Army; but, that of the Emperor ha∣uing a long time stayed at Naples and at Messina, did at the last boldly aduenture to releeue Coron, which was reduced to all extremity, where at the first, hauing had some hope of Victory, by reason of the flight and shamefull retreat of the [ 20] Turkish army, it returned afterwards without any honor at all, either by the Cap∣taines fault, or by a destined plague to Christians, seeing that the basenesse of the Turkish Captaines, did afterwards procure great hurt to Christendome. For So∣liman being displeased with those vnto whom he had committed the charge of his* 1.1025 fleet, taxing their small experience, determined to call Cariadine surnamed Barba∣rossa, who of a Pirate beeing become a Prince, commanded at the same time in Argier, to giue him, (as he did) the whole superintendence of sea matters.

Hee beeing most expert in marine matters, and hauing of a long exercised the trade of a Pirate in Barbary, had gotten a perfect knowledge of all the Christians sea places of retreat, and in Affrick likewise making incursions vpon the Moores; [ 30] but particularly by his defeating of the Spanish Galleis, whereby hee purchased great reputation, at such time as foure yeares before, they comming vnder the command of Don Hugo de Moncada to meet Doria at Genoa, hee did assaile and defeate them. Wee may iustly say that this man was the first which taught the Turkes the meanes of well ordering a nauall Armie, beeing before then smally experienced in sea matters, as those who till then had encreased their power by armes on land: hee likewise was the first that began to vse slaues in galleys, whe•…•…∣as before they were wont to man them with the first vnexperienced commers, which hath euer since made the Turkish fleetes more mighty, and more fearefull to Christians. Soliman then resoluing to make vse of this man, would so dainly ad∣uertise [ 40] the Venetians thereof, to the end that if they should meet him at sea, they might vse him as one of his Porte, knowing very well that they hated him for the great harme which he had done them. And of a certaine, this man was afterwards an instrument of great calamities to Christendome, and of sundry losses to the Signory of Venice, as heere-after shall be seene. At the same time, albeit that the Pope seemed to bee carefull for the imminent dangers that threatned Christen∣dom, beeing neuerthelesse more ardent then euer in his vsuall thoughts, to ad∣uance his Nephewes and his house, had vsed some secret meanes with the French King, concerning the marriage of Catherine, daughter to Lorenzo de Medicis his Neece, with He•…•…ry Duke of Orleans his second sonne: for the which treaty it [ 50] was concluded, that the Pope and the King should meet together at Nice, a towne belonging to the Duke of Sauoy, and seated neere the riuer of Var, which separa∣teth Italy from Prouence.

The report of this enteruiew, the occasion thereof beeing v•…•…knowne, had

greatly troubled the Venetians, and especially because it was added that the Em∣peror* 1.1026 would be there: wherevpon they carefully obserued these Princes actions, because they would not be ouer taken as they had beene at the assembly of Cam∣bray, saying that by reason of Princes ambition, they were to beware of all things, and to suspect all things, but this meeting, which should haue beene in the mo∣neth of Iuly, beeing deferred to September following, the true occasion of that enter view was in the meane time discarded, for which there mette together at Nice, the Bishop of Faenza for the Pope; and the Lord great Maister of France for the King, which did free the Venetians from all suspition.

The Pope did afterwards aduertise them of his departure, and of the occasion [ 10] thereof, and concealing those nuptialls no longer, he sought to couer it with some* 1.1027 other shadow, saying that in this treaty, hee had not so much respected his owne particular interest, as the common good and safety of all Italy, wherein nothing did so much auaile (as the Senate had often told him) as to hold the forces of two most mighty Princes in equall ballance, to the end that the power of the one might giue counterpoize to the other: in regard whereof, fearing least the French King, being wholy out of hope, by reason of the treaty of Bolognia, of the friend∣ship of the Italian Princes, would presently breake off from him, and that the Em∣peror thereby might come to command all, according to his owne pleasure, hee thought it fit to draw him vnto him by the bond of kindred; as hee had likewise [ 20] done by the Emperor.

Now these nuptials, which all the Princes of Italy did suspect, were celebrated, not at Nice, by reason of the difficulty which the Duke of Sauoy made (because hee would not displease the Emperor) to grant the Castle vnto the Pope; but at Marseilles, according to the Kings desire, who thought it more honorable for himselfe, to haue the meeting in •…•…is owne Rea•…•…me, wherewith the Pope was plea∣sed, beeing desirous to giue the King all content: but that which men feared came not to passe, by reason of •…•…dry accidents, and then by the Popes death, which happened •…•…oone after, so as Italy continued quiet, and the Venetians freed from all obligations of taking Armes againe. [ 30]

That which did greatly helpe to moderate the Popes great desseignes, were (as it was reported) the stirres in Germany, because that the Lantgraue of Hesse hauing with other protestant Princes leuied great numbers of soldiors, to restore* 1.1028 V•…•…drick Duke of Wittenberg to his Estate, it was reported that they would after∣wards march into Austria against Ferd•…•…nand, and that from thence they would come into Italy, the which the Germaines did very much desire: but all these troubles were soone appeased, by an accord made with the King of Romaines, against whom their principall quarrell was about the Duke of Wittembergs lands which hee possessed.

In this manner were the affaires of Italy quiet in the firme land, whereby the [ 40] Common-wealth was on that side freed from care and trouble; but for the Sea, it behooued them dayly to bee at new expences, beeing very iealous of their Sta•…•…e: so as the Republick might iustly say, that it was depriued of the benefit of a perfect peace.

It was no more freed the yeare following, one thousand, fiue hundred, thirty and foure, from troubles and •…•…pitions, then it had beene before, because that a* 1.1029 great fleete was prepared at Constantinople, which was to bee commanded by 〈◊〉〈◊〉, surnamed Barbarossa, and the like was expected in the West; for the Emperour supposing that the Turkish forces would fall vppon his States, vsed all meanes to encrease his sleete, and to make it fitte and able to resist [ 50] them. The French King on the other side, beeing prouoked by discontent, caused thirty Galleys to bee armed at Marseilles, his intent therein beeing not knowne. It was likewise reported, that great numbers of vessells of all sorts were armed and prepared in Barbary, not to scoure and robbe at sea, but

to ioyne with the Turk•…•…h Armie conducted by Ca•…•…aaine, and among other Cap∣taines* 1.1030 there was a very famous Pirate called Sinam C•…•…fut, surnamed the Iewe, a man very valiant and well experienced in marine businesse. The Pope in like manner to assure his Sea townes from all incursions and inuasions, or •…•…or some other deseigne (as it was s•…•…pposed) had armed ten Galleys.

All these fleetes bega•…•… iealousie in the Venetians, and enforced them to ex∣pences by augmenting the number of their Galleys, and the soldiers of the garrisons in their sea townes: whereby beeing in extreame need of helpe in these extraordinary expences, it was propounded in the Councell to acquaint the Pope againe therewith, to the end to obtaine leaue of him for that purpose to [ 10] raise the summe of an hundred thousand Ducats vpon the Clergie of their owne State. Some others of those of the Councell, who had already in this businesse tried the Popes rigor, were of opinion that the Senate, without tarrying for that leaue, should begin to leuie that summe of money, or else to proceed therein more earnestly with the Pope, declaring how that the wealth dedicated to the Churches of their State, was very great and ample, which beeing freed from all publick contribution, their other subiects were oppressed with subsidies and intol∣lerable charges, for the paiment of their fleets and soldiors leuyed for the conser∣uation of their liberty, and publick faculties. That it was not credible, that the holy intent of those who had enriched the Churches; was, that the Republick be∣ing [ 20] ruined and destroied, should be depriued of making vse of that which they had giuen to those Churches, in case of necessity: That the Pope stood badly affec∣ted to their State, and to whatsoeuer concerned them, •…•…o as hee made difficulties vpon all their requests, or else vsed long delayes therein.

B•…•…t notwithstanding these prepositions, the zeale of Religion, and the respect to the Sea Apostolick, were of such force with the Senators, as preferring it be∣fore all other profit and commodity, this proposition was reiected, constantly af∣firming* 1.1031 that it did not beseeme the Republick, which was founded & encreased in Christianity, vnder a continuall obedience and vnion to the Church and Pope of Rome, whereby it had purchased an immortall glory and commendation to lay [ 30] her hands on Church goods, or therein to force the Popes will. That they in times past had great and vrgent affaires, for which they had prouided without that aid, and without enterprizing scandalous matters: that they were not to doubt but that he which knoweth the inward thoughtes of men, and can doe all things, would raise them vp aid and succor by meanes to them vnknowne, much greater, and farre mo•…•…e 〈◊〉〈◊〉 then that where-unto they wer•…•… counc•…•…lled by an euill example, and if the Pope did still continew his vsuall rigor, by so much the more would appea•…•…e before God and the world, the deuout and holy intent, and accu∣stomed* 1.1032 wisdome of the Venetian Senate.

This opinion being allowed, they pursued with all honor and reuerence the ex∣pedition [ 40] of their request in the Court of Rome, the which at last they obteined. By this means the Senate hauing raised money, they began to augment the num∣ber of their galleis, whereof Capello was still Generall, and to leuy footmen to send to the Islands, and other sea places vnder their obedience, to the end to assure them, expecting what would become of the preparations of so many fleetes. Now the Turkes whi•…•…est their nauall army was preparing, were come by land to besiege Coron, & did so strictly shut it in, as the Spaniards that were within it, beeing im∣patient, and in a manner desperate, by reason of the miseries they there endured, made a sally vpon the Turkes, which succeeding vnfortunatly, they were enforced to retire into the castle with great losse of their soldiers: whervpon, finding them∣selues [ 50] by that losse, & likewise by pestilence, to be reduced to a very small number,* 1.1033 so soone as the Sicillian ships arriued which brought supplies, the Spanish Cap∣taines being out of hope to keepe that towne, embarked themselues in the same ships, and left it to the Turkes discretion. Yet neuerthelesse, it was supposed, as a

matter more likely, that the same happened by the Emperors expresse comman∣dement, who perceiuing that hee would not but with great expences defend that place enuironed on all sides with enemies, and beeing out of hope of any farther progression, determined to quit it. Cariadine in the meane time hauing put to sea with an hundred saile, and beeing come neere to the Venetian Gulphe, the Generall, who narrowly obserued his actions, prepared, according as the Senate had willed him at the beginning, to retire farther in, and not to abandon the de∣fence* 1.1034 and safety of the Gulphe: but the Turkish fleete directing their course to∣wards the Tirrhene sea, sailed to the sea coasts of Calabria, where on a suddaine hauing landed great numbers of soldiers, they did not onely spoile the countrey, [ 10] but tooke two townes vpon the sea-shore, though of small consequence.

The feare of the inhabitants of Naples and Rome at the report of the arriuall of these Barbarians was very great, so as if Cariadine had marched thither, he might easily haue taken them, there beeing no forces to hinder him: but the Turke ha∣uin scoured and spoiled the whole Prouince, went vnto the Isle of Ponze to take in fresh water, and then sailed towards the coast of Affrick, chiefely to exectute his deseigne, for which hee was come from Constantinople, albeit that hee had cunningly made shew to •…•…aile towards the coast of Spaine, that hee might on a sodaine, and vnlookt for, assaile his enemy Amulcasse King of Tunis.

Cariadine was sufficiently enformed of the whole State of that Countrey, of [ 20] the situation and strong townes, and of the Kings forces, and what affection his s•…•…biects did beare vnto him: Wherevpon, adding to all these things which hee well knew, force, and cunning, •…•…ee hoped that his enrererprise would fall out pro∣sperously, as it did. For hee gaue forth, that hee brought Roscetta with him the Kings brother, knowing how pleasing that name was to the people, where after* 1.1035 sundry exploits hee did at last take the Citty of Thunis.

The other fleetes at the same time did nothing worthy of memory, except that of the Venetians, which was enforced to come to strokes with certaine ves∣sels of Malta to chastice their Captaine. It was Philippo Mazzo a Knight of Malta, who hauing very audaciously, with certaine vessels, scoured not onely the Leuant [ 30] seas, but came into the Venetian Gulph, spoiling & robbing both Christians and Turkes indifferently, was taken by the Generall and sent to Venice, where his processe beeing by the Senate referred to the criminall Councell of the Forts, to consider thereof, and himselfe in the meane time walking at liberty in the Citty, not tarrying for his iudgement, escaped thence: then hauing againe armed three Fusts, hee continued with great arrogancy and contempt of the Common∣wealth,* 1.1036 his •…•…ormer courses: wherevpon the Prouidator hauing narrowly watched him, did in the end surprise him, and hauing disarmed his vessels, caused Philippos head to bee stricken off as author of all those misehiefes, setting all the Turkish slaues at liberty, whom hee sent to Constantinople. [ 40]

It was supposed that this execution would haue incensed the Emperor, who had that Religion vnder his protection, and the great maister of Malta; but they being aduertised how the matter stood, both of them were appeased.

In the middest of these affaires, the Pope who was fallen fick at the beginning* 1.1037 of summer, hauing a long time endured sundry accidents, departed forth of this present lise, at such time as he was at the heighth of all his happinesse. Hee beeing dead, the Cardinalls, who according to the vsuall ceremonies had shutte them∣selues vp into the conclaue, did with a generall consent, elect in his steed, Alexan∣der* 1.1038 of the family of Farneses, a Romaine by nation, and the eldest Cardinall of the Court of Rome, who tooke vpon him the name of Paul the third. All men [ 50] thought that hee would haue behaued himselfe as Neuter, as hee had euer done, for the space of fifty yeares or there-about that hee had beene Car∣dinall, and would thereby maintaine Italy in peace and quiet a long time after:

the which was very pleasing to the Venetians, as they who greatly desired to •…•…ee all matters brought to a setled quiet, and who did besides perswade themselues, by reason of the loue which he had euer seemed to beare vnto them before hee was Pope, that if he should leaue his neutrality hee would rather confirme the league which they were at with Clement his Predecessor, then practize any no∣ueltie; therefore they sent eight Ambassadors to him, namely Marco Minio, Tomaso Moceniga, Nicolao Tepulo, Ieromino Pesare, Giouan Badoari•…•…, Lorenzo Bra∣gadino,* 1.1039 Gasparo Co•…•…taren, and Federico Reniero, not giuing them any other com∣mission, then to present to the new Pope their accustomed obedience, thinking it not fit to sue vnto him for any thing, vntil they had better discouered his de∣seignes [ 10] in his new fortune.

But the Emperour beeing desirous to know his meaning from himselfe, being therevnto mooued by his feare, least the French would stirre, hee did foorth with* 1.1040 sound him concerning the renuing of his league with the late Pope: And the more easily to induce him therevnto, hee made the same request to the Veneti∣ans, that they would againe confirme betwix•…•… them the former Articles of their confederacy, exhorting them therevnto for the quiet of Italy, which hee knew they so much wisht for, and they beeing vnited together, would bee able to main∣taine and defend themselues from all the attempts of the French, although the new Pope would not ioyne himselfe with them: and yet neuerthelesse the true [ 20] meanes to draw him to them, at the beginning of the Papacie, was, to see a firme vnion and correspondence, betwixt the Republick and him, on whom the wills of other potentates of Italy were to depend.

The Venetians did not altogether approoue, nor yet reiect the Emperors mo∣tion,* 1.1041 for they beeing in no sort desirous of innouation, said some-times; That there was no need to haue it renued, and at other times seemed to be ready so to doe, when need should bee. And in these practises ended the yeare one thousand fiue hundred thirty foure.

The Pope who did maturely confider all these matters, not dooing anything rashly, did at the beginning of the yeare following, shew how desirous hee [ 30] was to establish a firme peace betwixt the Emperour and the French King, (vnto whom hee speedily sent his Legates for that purpose), and likewise in what singular recommendation hee had the affaires of Italy, aboue all other matters, with a particular affection to the Signory of Venice. Yet neuerthe∣lesse, as Princes actions are different and subiect to change, an occasion was of∣fered, which had like to haue altered this good disposition of the Popes, to the great danger of all Italy.

Whilest the Sea Apostolick was vacant, the nuptialls had beene solemnized betwixt Guido Vbaldo, sonne to Francesco Maria Duke of Vrbin, and Iulia the onely daughter to Iohn V•…•…ran Duke of Camerine, who succeeded in her Fa∣thers [ 40] State. This marriage was at the first allowed by the Pope, and all men thought that matters would haue gone forward peaceably, but within a while after, the Pope beeing otherwise perswaded by some, or else aspiring of himselfe, (as it often happeneth to those that are at the height of their feilcity) to greater and higher deseignes, thought this a very fitte occasion for the aduancement of his owne house, by conferring therevnto this enfeoffment of the Church for a beginning: Wherevpon hee openly declared, That hee would neuer suffer that the Duke of Vrbin should, against all law and right, possesse (as hee sayd) the Dutchie of Camerine, belonging to himselfe alone, to dispose there∣of,* 1.1042 haui•…•…g to this end raysed great forces to hinder the fortifications which [ 50] the Duke intended to make at Camerine, and the Garrison which hee purpo∣sed to place there.

This declaration of the Pope did greatly discontent the Venetians, vnder

whose protection the Duke of Vrbin was, vnto whom, and his whole house, they did beare singular affection, for the good seruices which hee had done to the* 1.1043 common-wealth; and therefore they vsed all possible meanes to appease the Pope; as also because that the Duke of Vrbin did freely offer to haue the matter consulted and d•…•…bated on by reason: but the Pope giuing no eare to their en∣treaties or messages, said that hee could doe no otherwise therein then hee was councelled and aduised by affaires of State, and that hee did determine without any more dissembling to recouer by force, that which had beene detained from that State: the which all men did account very strange, in regard of those times, Christendom beeing infinitely molested, both by the armes of the Infidels, and [ 10] by heresies newly sprung vp in diuerse and sundry Prouinces. The Venetians therefore not to omit ought which might quench this small sparke, which was likely to burst forth into a great flame, did aduertise the Emperor thereof, earnest∣ly entreating him therein to interpose his authoritie, to preserue and maintaine ouer all Italy the same peace and quiet which to his honor and renowne hee had so well established.

The Emperor did willingly embrace this businesse, and hauing hotly pursued* 1.1044 it with the Pope, did greatly moderate his former heate: But it was supposed that the same which did most of all appease him, was a proposition made vnto him by those who managed the affaires of the Duke and the Venetians, which was, to [ 20] giue to his sonne Pietro Lodouico, some honorable estate in Romagnia, and to r•…•…nder Rauenna and Ceruia to the Venetians, to the end thereby to oblige them to take the person of Pietro Lodouico and his State into •…•…heir protection and safegard, because it was not to bee doubted, but that the Venetians, in acknow∣ledgment of such a benefit, and sor their owne proper interest, desiring rather to* 1.1045 haue a particular Lord of that State to bee their neighbour, then the Church, would employ all their forces for the maintenance and preseruation of the great∣nesse of the Farne•…•…ia family: wherevnto the Pope hearkning very willingly, and hoping for some greater matter, the pursutes for the Dutchy of Camerine was for the Venetians sakes smoothered, of whom hee then •…•…eemed to make [ 30] great account.* 1.1046

All the Princes of Italy at the same time, and especially the Venetians were in feare, and stood vpon their guard, by reason of a mighty Army which the Empe∣ror prepared, vntill such time as they were aduertised, that it was for Affrick to recouer Thunis, and thereby to assure the kingdome of Naples, a neere neigh∣bour to it which Cariadine did dayly threaten to inuade. The Emperor did parti∣cularly aduertise the Venetian Senate of all his deseignes, seeming to bee very zealous for the common good of Christendom, and in particular for that of their Republick, desiring to continue the same friendship and good correspon∣dence which was betwixt them. [ 40]

This demonstration of friendship was the cause of the renuing the confedera∣cie betwixt them, according to the same conditions which had beene conclu∣ded at Bolognia, onely to shew that by the Popes death, it was nei•…•…her finished nor broken off; Wherevpon, they commanded Marc-Antonio Contaren their Ambassador, that in signe of continuance of amitie, he•…•… should follow, (which he did) the Emperor whether soeuer hee went. After that generall processions and publick prayer were made in Venice by the Cleargie, that it might please God to fauour that enterprise.

This great preparation of the Emperors Army had caused the T•…•…rkes to sus∣pect diuerse matters, and this suspition was most of all increased in them (as it was [ 50] reported) by Iohn Forrest the French Ambassador at Constantinople, thorow his reports made to the Baschaes, seeking to make them beleeue, that the Venetians did perswade the Emperour to turne his great forces vppon

Greece against Solimans state, and yet ne•…•…erthe lesse the French Ambassador resident at Venice, did offer to the Senate, in his Kings behalfe all fauour and cur∣tesie that might be▪ he did likewise en•…•…reat them to take speciall heed to the Em∣perors actions, and that such great preparations ought verily to cause them to sus∣pect, and that the common rumors abroad were so many signes of the imminent dangers and preiudices which threatened the Common-wealth▪ These offers and aduerticements did greatly trouble the Senate, who did well perceiue that they tended only to cause the Republick to suspect and distrust all men, and to thrust it into open warre, either against the Emperor or Soliman, to enforce them thereby to haue recourse to the French King to make vse of his fauour toward the Turke, [ 10] or of his forces against the Emperor. Yet neuerthelesse, partly dissembling these suspitions, they thanked the King for his offers and good-will, for which, though at that present they had no need of them, the Common-wealth should neuerthe∣lesse remaine much obliged to that Crowne•…•… they did after-wards complain•…•… of the bad offers which his Ambassador at Constantinople had done vnto them, cleane contrary to truth: wherupon the King did disauow it, and assured them that he had neuer giuen him any such commissions.* 1.1047

Howsoeuer it was, it is certaine that notwithstanding all these reports and bad offices done to the Venetians towards Soliman, he did still loue and highly respect them: for at his returne from Persia he failed not particularly to acquaint them [ 20] with the prosperous successe of his iourney, how he had chased away his enemies, entred Persia, spoiled and sackt the Citty of Tauris, the Royal seate of that King∣dome, had beene at Babilon, from whence hauing expulsed the Garrison, he be∣came Maister thereof, and lastly that he was returned victorious to Constantino∣ple: The report was, that, soone after his returne home, he was desirous to leuy a mighty army: wherupon he called for the same purpose Cariadine and diuers o∣ther Captaines before him to consult with them about the affaires of warre, thereby shewing that his meaning was, not to suffer his Army long to conti∣nue idle.

The Emperor in the meane time, (the winter season beeing past, and all things [ 30] * 1.1048 in readinesse for the Voyages of Affricke) tooke shipping at Barcelona, where all the fleet lay to the nomber of three hundred •…•…aile of all sortes, vnder the conduct of Prince Doria, with forty thousand fighting men, not accounting the Marriners and Rowers, who were very many, being attended on by all the Spanish Nobi∣lity, together with the Infant of Portugall who met him at Barcelona with foure∣score saile of shippes of warre. The first landing of the army was in Sardinia in the Hauen of Caliers, and hauing there taken order for all warlike necessaries, it sailed to Carthage: then being come neere to the land, not farre from Goletta, the arm•…•… was forthwith landed, which encamped not farre from thence, knowing very well that on the taking thereof depended that of Thunis: because that Go∣letta [ 40] * 1.1049 is a Tower enuironed with diuers Bastions, and seated almost vppon the mouth of a Channell, through which the Sea entring in a good way, it maketh a Lake right ouer against it, vpon which the Citty of Thunis is seated, some twelue miles from Sea.

At their first arriuall the Turkes Garrison in Goletta did valiantly defend them∣selues; but the Emperors ordnance hauing (almost) ruined the Fort, it fell into the Spaniards possession, who entring afterwards into the Lake, did without any dis∣ficulty or fight take fifty three vessells, as Gallies, Galliots, and Fusts, which Cari∣adine had left there as in a place of most safety.

This losse did so daunt Cariadine, as notwithstanding that at the beginning com∣ming [ 50] * 1.1050 forth of Thunis with his army, hee made a shew as if he would giue the Em∣perour Battaile, yet neuer-the-lesse giuing place on a sudaine, he retired into the Citty of Bonna, where finding himfelfe in no great safety, and vnderstanding that Doria followed him, he went to Argiers.

The Citties of Thunis and Bonna being forsaken by their Captaine, notwith∣standing that there were strong Garrisons in them, did very quickly and with ease* 1.1051 fall into the Spaniards hands. Cariadine escaping all these dangers, went within a while after to Constantinople, whither he was sent for, and being come into Solimans presence, who was newly returned from Persia, he did in the best manner he could excuse all that which happened, and the losse of the Kingdome: Solima•…•… being ioyfull for his victories, obtained in Persia, did pardon and receiue him to fauour, and after-wards gaue him the super-in-tendence of his Army by Sea.

The Emperor on the other side hauing with royall bounty rendred the King∣dome [ 10] of Tunis, which he had conquered, to Amulcasse, on condition to pay vnto him as his feodatory, an Annuall tribute of six Barbery horses, twelue falcons, and twelue thousand crownes for the paiment of a thousand Spanish footmen, whom he left in Garrison at Goletta, departed victorious from Affrick, and sailed with his whole army into Sicily; where hauing made some abode in the Citties of Palermo and Messina, he dismissed the greatest part of his fleet, and cassed his* 1.1052 army, retaining no more then two thousand Almai•…•…e footmen for his guard, and afterwards went to spend the winter at Naples,

Sundry Princes, and Princes Ambassadors went thither to him: the Slgnory likewise, according to their ancient custome, sent soure Ambassadors thither to [ 20] him, namely, Marco Foscare, Gionan Delphino, Vincenzo Grimani, and Tomazo Contaren, to reioyce with him in the Republicks name for his victories obtained in Affricke.

Whilest the Emperor was on his iourney, Francisco Sforza, Duke of Milan, de∣ceassed,* 1.1053 without any Children of his owne to succeed him. The Senate after his death requested Antonio de Leua to haue an eye vpon that State, and to gouerne it in the name of his widdow, vntill that the Emperors pleasure were therein knowne. The Dutchesse went to Naples to the Emperor, where being honora∣blie entertained by him, he seemed to be very sorry for the Death of the Duke hir hu•…•…band; either for some particular friendship which he had borne vnto him, or [ 30] elce for feare least hi•…•… death would breed some new troubles in Italy, or rather, by dissembling it, to seeke thereby meanes to make all men beleeue, that for his owne part, he would lay no claime to that State.

But the Venetians were extreamely sory for his death, who hauing so long a time with great expence and discomodity maintained warre, to the end that the same state might be possessed by a particular Italian Lord, perceiued them-selues, by the Dukes death, to be throwne into new doubts and difficulties, and being de∣priued of their hopes, to be peraduenture enforced to renew the warre. There∣fore so soone as the Emperor was come to Naples, the Venetian Ambassadors that followed him, did represent vnto him the Senates desire, together with the [ 40] State of the affaires of Italy; Earnestly entreating him to find a meanes if it were possible, to maintaine that peace which himselfe had there established, and the which he seemed so much to desire. The Emperor made answer, that in regard it* 1.1054 belonged to him as chiefe Lord to prouide for that State, he did likewise therein desire to giue content to the Princes of Italy, and cheefely to the Venetians: ther∣fore he would very willingly learne of them what were best to be done for the safe establishing of the quiet of Italy, and also what their meaning there▪in was▪

The Venetians, notwithstanding they desired to haue the State of Milan fall into the hands of some particular Lord, yet neuerthelesse being therein ignorant [ 50] of the Emperors pleasure, beeing not willing (and it may be, not in vaine) to of∣fend him, or any other, they continued constant in this proposition, to haue som one inuested therein, who should be esteemed •…•…it and sufficient to main∣taine peace and quiet in Italy, with-out proceeding any farther: where-vppon

the foure departed▪ Ambassadors had no commission at al for this businesse when they departed towards Naples, whereat the Emperor wondering, and beeing de∣firous to draw the Venetians to his party, (occasion now beeing offered), hee be∣ganne againe to discourse of that matter, concluding in the end, (as hee had at o∣ther times done) that being not yet well resolued on whom to bestow the State of Milan, hee would willingly know their opinions, the which hee would greatly esteeme and respect in that businesse.

Within a while after, there beeing some suspition that the French did meane to stirre vp new troubles, the Emperor sought to the Venetians, that as by the Popes death they had renewed the league betwixt themselues, euen so to renew it [ 10] now againe, by reason of the Duke of Milans de•…•…th: that he did desire it, the bet∣ter to assure the affaires of Italy, and to take away all occasion from those that were desirous to trouble it.

The Venetians beeing of the same mind did therein giue consent to fatisfie the* 1.1055 Emperor, by confirming the league on the self same former conditions, reseruing therein, place for the Pope, and for him also that should bee chosen Duke of Milan.

It was well aduised, sodainly and freely to grant the Emperors first entreaties, to shew by that readinesse how much they did affect him, and to auoid besides, the occasion of handling that businesse at Rome, whither he determined speedi∣ly [ 20] to goe, whereof the Turkes would haue conceiued some sinister opinion in re∣gard of the leagues which Popes were wont to propound against Infidells: al∣though of a long time they haue beene to no purpose.

The Pope not well considering all these occasions, or else beeing ignorant of them, made shew to be displeased with the Venetians, for that they had so readily graunted the Emperors demand, saying, that they ought to haue tarried for his presence, and vntill the Emperour had beene come to Rome. The Duke of Milans death had reuiued in the French King, his former claimes, and his* 1.1056 earnet desire to conquer that State; wherein being resolute, knowing how great∣ly the Venetians might aid him in that enter prize, he determined first of all to [ 30] sound their meaning, and to this end sent the Lord os Beauais, one of the Gen∣tlemen of his Chamber to Venice, to vnderstand how they stood affected to the occasion which did now offer it self, to assure, (as he said) and augment their State, declaring vnto them how that his King had great store of money, friends and all other necessaries for such an enterprise, whereby they could not but hope for a good and prosperous successe: and if that they shew themselues to be his friends and Confederates, he would very nobly recompence them.

The Senate supposing it to bee no fitte time to giue an eare to these propositi∣ons,* 1.1057 made answer in generall termes, that the Republick had beene euer desirous of peace, and neuer more then now, as well by reason of the great discommodi∣ties [ 40] of the late warres, as for that Christendome was in sundry places afflicted with many heresies, the which ought to bee rooted out, before any new warre were to begin: yet neuerthelesse they did highly thanke the King for his offers, and for his confident communicating them vnto them, wherof they would stil be mindfull, and perhaps in time make vse.

The French King for all this, not giuing ouer his deseigne of sending his Ar∣my* 1.1058 into Italy to conquer that State, did leuie as great forces as hee could to enuade it on the sodaine, and to that end sent to the Duke of Sauoy, to craue passage thorow his country, which the Duke denying, by the perswation (as it was reported) of the Dutchesse his wife, the King tooke it very strangely, in re∣garde [ 50] of the ancient alliance and neere kindred that was betwixt them, by meanes whereof, he determined first to enuade it.

The King had sundry occasions to bee displeased with the Duke of Sauoy,

which did the more heate and hasten him on: for, the loane of money made by the same Duke to the Duke of Bourbon, a traitor to the King: his gratulatory letters written to the Emperor when he was taken prisoner: his practises to allienate the Suisses from the alliance with France: the purchase of the County of Ast: his* 1.1059 refusall to lend Nice for the enteruiew of Pope Clement and himselfe: the Kings claimes to the dowrie of the Lady Loisa of Sauoy his mother, sister to Duke Phili∣bert, who died without children, the King affirming th•…•…t a great part of the suc∣cession of Sauoy did belong vnto himselfe, by reason that his mother was borne of the first wife, and sole sister and heire to Duke Philibert, together with his •…•…resh refusall to giue him passage thorow his countrey, to march to the conquest of the [ 10] Dutchy of Milan, all these things were euident signes of the Dukes small affecti∣on towards the King: wherevpon the Duke, knowing very well that he had grea•…•…ly offended him, and being out of hope to be reconciled to him, so soone as the Em∣peror was come to Palermo in Sicily, beeing returned from his iourney of Thu∣nis, hee did secretly send vnto him, to craue his ayde against so mightie an enemy.

This businesse could not bee so secretly carried, but that the King had speedie intel•…•…igence thereof, which caused him on a sodaine to send his forces beyond the mounts, vnder the conduct of Philip Chabot Admiral of France his Lieutenant Generall, whom he sent to enuade Piedmont, about the beginning of the yeare* 1.1060 1536. where finding the country badly prouided of defence, hee easily tooke the [ 20] citties of Thurin, Fossan & Pigneroll, and was besides like to haue taken the citty of Verceill, had not Antonio de Leua who was in the Dutchy of Milan come thi∣ther to the speedy rescue thereof, staying by his arriuall the designes and progres∣sion of the French. The Emperor seemed to bee extreamly displeased and in∣censed against the French King, for making warre in Piedmont, and causing spee∣dily a mighty Army to bee leuied, hee did soone hope to ouer-runne him, affir∣ming boldly that hee would goe in person to assaile him in his owne kingdome, and within a while after comming to Rome, hee c•…•…me into the Consistory, where in the presence of the Pope and Cardinalls, and great numbers of Am∣bassadors and Prelates, Dukes, Earles, Barons, and other noble personages, hee [ 30] began to complaine of the French King, so as beeing tra•…•…sported with choller,* 1.1061 hee proceeded so farre, as for the auoyding of greater effusion of bloud, he•…•… would end all controuersies by fighting with him hand to hand, and that he•…•… would challenge him for that purpose.

The Pope did all hee might to appease him, and had already employed him∣selfe to make them friends, but all in vaine. The greatest difficulty was, to find•…•… a meanes which m•…•…ght content both the one and other, concerning the Dutchy of Milan, in which treaty, although the Venetians had an hand, (the Emperors pleasure beeing to haue them acquainted therewith,) yet neuerthelesse they did very slowly proceed in it, in regard of the aboue •…•…entioned reasons, which were [ 40] much encreased by these new accidents of Piedmont. For the Duke of Sauoy beeing driuen from his State, went to Naples to the Emperor, to beseech him to haue pitty vpon him, and to helpe to restore him to his Dutchie. The Emperor beeing mooued with pi•…•…ty, was ready to make an agreement with the French King to free himselfe from that war, and to restore the Duke of Sauoy to his state, but not agreeing together vpon the persons of the Duke of Orleance, or the Duke* 1.1062 of Angoulesme, for the Dutchy of Milan, the Emperor beeing desirous to giue it to the Duke os A•…•…goulesme, and the French King to the Duke of Orleance, the matter remained vndecided; and the Emperor departing from Rome, after some small stay in Tuscany went, without tarrying any where, to Ast. Hauing there [ 50] assembled all his cheefe Captaines, among whom were D. Fernand of Toledo D•…•…ke of Alua, the Marquis of Guasto and D. Fernand de Go•…•…zaga, he conferred with them concerning the meanes to make warres, where of h•…•…s owne proper motion, he propounded against al reason & the opinions of the best experienced

into Prouence, wherevpon to that end the rendezuous for all his troopes was at Nice whither Doria likewise came with fifty Galli•…•…s, to second the land army, The Emperor came thither in person; from thence, entring into the French Kings countrey, he encamped not farre from the Citty of Aix, beeing not well re∣solued* 1.1063 what to attempt first, cheefely desiring to assaile either Marseilles, or A•…•…les; and hauing spent much time in this irresolution, he gaue the King leisu•…•…e to as∣semble a mighty army, who beeing come to Lyons for that purpose, did practise* 1.1064 with sondry Italian Captaines, who in his behalfe hauing raised forces neere to Mirandola, made an attempt to surpri•…•…e Genoa, and to reduce it to the French Kings deuotion. [ 10]

The Emperor beeing by this meanes called away to defend his owne, percei∣uing likewise that his army sustained diuers discommodities, by reason of the bad disposition of the ayre where it was encamped, was enforced to retire, without doing any thing, but only making a shew of his great desire to hurt the King.* 1.1065 But before hee came into Prouence, hee sent Roderico D'Analos to Venice to ac∣quaint the Senate with his great preparations of warre, and with his deseigne to inuade France, and to entreat them by the same meanes to make ready those for∣ces, which they were tyed to furnish by their Confederacy, for the defence of the state of Milan: if need should be.

The Senate therevpon determined to leuy six thousand footmen, vnder the [ 20] * 1.1066 command of Antonio de Castello, Generall of the artillery, and did in the meane time answer the Emperor, that as it had beene ready to renew the league, it was likewise as diligent to maintaine that whereunto it was bound, and that for their parts they would in no sort faile to defend the State of Milan: they did afterwards adde to these foot-forces fiue hundred light horsse armed after the Burgonian manner, commanding all those forces of foot and horsse to meet by a certaine day at Azola, vpon the Bressan territory, to passe from thence when need should bee vppon that of Cremona: The Duke of Vrbin was likewise sent for, to come in person to the Arm•…•…: but truce beeing granted by the arriuall of the Cardinall of Lorraine, this former heate of the French seemed to be quenched, wherby the [ 30] Venetians had no cause to march forth of their owne confines: yet neuerthelesse the French king made shew openly to be distasted of them, although he very well knew that he had no iust cause, by reason they did not exceed the bounds of their Confederacy, but hoping by his complaints to cause them to proceed more slowly in that wherein they were bound to the Emperor, and to abstaine from en∣tring into any new league or confederacy with him, he complained of all these matters.

C•…•…sar Fregoza, Captaine of a company of light horsse in Verona, departing with∣out leaue and going to Genoa to fauour the Kings partie, was depriued of his pay, and rancke which he held, and was wholly banished from their State. The King [ 40] complained thereof, and of diuers other matters, and sometimes with very bitter speeches, because that the Venetians went about (as he said) to mar his deseignes and enterprizes: The Emperors agents on the other side seeming to be displeased, if they should casse certaine vnprofitable soldiers, said, that they did it to augment the enemies army, whither they retired themselues, which was assembled at Mi∣randola: so iealous were these two Princes one of an other, which of them should haue the Republick for his friend and Confederate.

The Emperour departing (as hath beene said) from Prouence went to Genoa,* 1.1067 meaning to passe (as hee did) into Spaine, leauing the Marquis of Guasto for his Lieftenant Generall in Italy in Antonio de 〈◊〉〈◊〉 steed, who dyed in Pro∣uence, [ 50] with twenty thousand foote-men, both of Almaines, Spaniards, and Italians.

Other Ambassadors from the Republicke, came vnto him to Genoa,

namely, Nicolao Tepulo, Marc-Antonio Veniero, Marc-Antonio Cornare, and An∣tonio Capello, and at their arriuall, he dispatched Do•…•… Pedro Gonzales de Mendoz•…•… to Venice, to acquaint them with his successe in warre, and with the cause of his returne, together with his great loue to peace, particularly rehearsing vnto them,* 1.1068 whatsoeuer had beene treated of with the King, the first practises beeing againe renued, where the King had taken time for three moneths to resolue him▪selfe, whether hee should accept the Dutchy of Milan for his sonne the Duke of An∣goulesme, and thereby haue him to marry with Duke Sforzas widdow. And if within the time prefixed, the King did not resolue thereon, hee did intend to giue that State to Don Luigi Infant of Portugall, or to Emanuell sonne to the Duke of [ 10] Sauoy, wherein he desired to know their mindes; but he added, that for the better establishing of all these matters, it was necessary to contract a new league betwixt the Princes of Italy, for otherwise it was impossible that himselfe alone could beare such a burthen, wherevnto if they would not giue their consent, they should haue no cause to complaine of him, if hee were enforced to do that which would* 1.1069 not greatly please them. The Senate beeing constant in their former resolution, not to declare their meaning concerning the Dutchy of Milan, vntill they had more particular notice of the Emperors intent therein, nor yet to make any new confederacie, other then that of Bolognia so oftentimes renued: answered, that concerning the new Duke of Milan, when the Emperor should directly name any [ 20] one, the Senate would afterwards better consider of their particular & common interests, and make a more certaine resolution: as for the new league, they al∣leadged the selfe same reasons as at other times, that there was no need thereof, with the same regard to the Turke, who euery day grew great, and (according to common report) prepared a mighty Army for the yeare following.

The Venetians did aduertise the Pope of what had passed, still assuring him of their great affection to the peace, and safety of Italy, for which they intreated his Holynesse readily to employ himselfe, because that hauing reuiued the matter concerning the Dutchy of Camerine, he seemed to neglect this other important businesse, satisfying himselfe onely for that hee had declared himselfe as neuer: [ 30] but being at last earnestly solicited by the Venetians, and by the imminent dan∣gers which threatned them from the Turke, which did dayly encrease, as also for* 1.1070 that he had vndertaken to conuoke a generall Councell, which was published to be held at Vincenza insteed of Mantua, where it had beene first appointed, hee did expresly resolue to send his Legates to both these Princes, to treate particu∣larly of this businesse, namely, of an vniuersall peace betwixt the Christian Princes of the league against the Turke, and of the celebration of the Councell.

The Cardinall Triuulcio went to the French King, and the Cardinal Carracciola to the Emperor: but these Legations were fruitlesse, because none of these three points did take effect, by reason of sondry difficulties whih happened. War by this [ 40] meanes did in such sort kindle betwixt the Emperor and the French King; as ene∣mies and most barberous nations were there-in vsed to the hurt and ruyne of Christendome: where-in the Venetians like-wise had an hand, notwithstanding that they had determined to remaine neuters, and to be at peace and friendship with both parties.

Now by that which hath beene said, the deseignes of Francis the French King may be sufficiently discerned, who determining to trie all meanes to abase the Emperors greatnesse, and to reuenge all those wrongs which he said he had recei∣ued from him, he did at sondry times sound the Venetians meaning, and did by diuers meanes seeke to seperate them from the Emperor: at the last, the Lord of [ 50] * 1.1071 Rhod•…•… comming from him to Venice, propounded sundry faire hopes and promises to the Senate, and vsed all meanes to change their former deter∣mination to continew the league with th•…•… Emperour, but it was in vaine.

For the Venetians were as firme and constant in keeping their promise with the* 1.1072 Emperor▪ as they were hard to be drawne to doe any thing which might disturbe the quiet of Italy. The kings hope herein being frustrate, and himselfe being migh∣tily animated against the Emperor for comming to assaile him in his owne King∣dome▪ knowing likewise that he was to weake of him-selfe alone to finish the en∣terprize of the Dutchy of Milan, which was defended by the entire •…•…orces of the Emperour and the Venetians, supposed that there was nothing which would sooner cause him to obtaine his desire, then to purchase the friendship of Soliman (which he had already practized) whereby he did hope to enforce the Venetians, either to take his part, or at least to abstaine from following that of the Emperor; [ 10] the causes being very great and many which did moue the Venetians to make high account of Solimans authority; and on the other side, by causing the Turkish army to passe ouer into Puglia, or to other places of the Emperors obedience, hee did* 1.1073 thinke to diuert his forces and greatly to weaken his defence for the State of Milan.

The King then turned all his designes towards the Port of the great Turke, where not-with-standing that Iohn •…•…orrest was his Ambassador, hee did besides, send thither Dom Zerafin de Gozi of Ragusa, with new and more important instruc∣tions, and great promises. These two, being often in company of the Baschas of [ 20] most authority, propounded diuers matters, which being reported to Soliman, might easily induce him to grant the Kings demands: as the Emperors greatnes the which if it were not moderated, would become fearefull, or at least to bee sus∣pected* 1.1074 of all other Potentates, with diminuation, if not of their States, yet cer∣tenly of their reputation and greatnesse: the facility of the enterprize, there be∣ing but a s•…•…nal space of Sea for the transportation of the Turkish army from Albi∣ana to Ottranto, and at one time to scoure the Sea coast of that country: The great discontent of the inhabitants of that country with the Spanish gouernment and especially of the cheefest of them, who as desperate persons would embrace all occasions to open the way to higher enterprizes which might abase the Empe∣rors [ 30] authority. Aiax Listibei was at the •…•…ame time in great authority in the Port of the great Turke; holding the place and gard of first Bascha, a mighty enemy to Christians, and who since the death of Ibraim had often perswaded Soliman to turne his forces vpon Christendome. This man because hee would not lose the occasion, and praysing the ouertures, and propositions of the French Ambassa∣dors, propounded them with much amplification to Soliman, vsing all meanes to incite him to the enterprize of Italy, laying before him the example of Mahomet,* 1.1075 a discreet and valliant Prince, who with fortunate successe did easily take the citty of Ottranto, and by his arriuall did bring that whole country to extreame consu∣sion opening him▪selfe a way for the conquest of Italy, one of the excellentest countries of Europe, had he not beene preuented by death. [ 40]

These things being represented to Soliman, did greatly preuaill with him, who did couet glory, and was full of pride, supposing him-selfe to be highly honored, in that so great a King did send to craue his aide and asistance, against another* 1.1076 most mighty Prince his enemy, and hee was like-wise glad that so faire an occasi∣on was offered to diuert him from the enterprizes of India and Persia, where hee vnprofitably consumed his army: where vpon he did on a sudaine consent to pro∣mise the French Ambassador, that the next sommer hee would raise great forces both by Sea and Land, to enuade the Emperors dominions.

But aboue all other things, supposing it to be most necessary to separate the* 1.1077 Venetians from the Emperor, he resolued to send Ianusbei one of the Dragomans [ 50] or interpreters of his Port, to exhort the Senate, that hee being to march with a mighty army, it would shew it selfe a friend to his friends, and enemy to his ene∣mies, promising them, that he would take order that nothing should be hurt which did belong vnto them.

The Senate did forthwith answere this proposition. That the republicke had euer made great account and deere reckoning of peace with al Princes, and especi∣ally* 1.1078 with the Lords of the Ottomans family, with whom hauing of a long time contracted peace and frendship, with a free commerce betwixt each others sub∣iects they did at this present retaine the same desire to continue it more then euer, whereof there was no need to make any more ampl•…•… declaration.

It seemed that Soliman was wel content and satisfied with this answere, who was a Prince (if these quallities may be found in a Barbarian) of a goodly vnderstan∣ding, and a friend to iustice and honour: but diuers of his seruants being desirous for their owne interest and particular affection to disturbe this quiet, and to break [ 10] this peace, setting foreward by a false complaint, the actions of sundry officers of the Common-wealth, who, (as they affirmed) had borne small respect to the maiesty and profit of his Empire, did perswade him to permit his officers likewise to vse some practises against the Common wealth of Venice, that at last the mat∣ter might be brought to an open warre; this being permitted diuers Venetian Marchants that were at Constantinople and other places of his Empire by reason of their particular affaires, were vnder sundry false pretences committed to prison and their goods confiscate: after that, two Venetian shippes vpon diuers occasi∣ons were stayed, the one belonging to Andrew Contaren taken vpon the Sea of Ciprus, by the Gallies of the Garrison of Rhodes as a man of warre, and the o∣ther [ 20] * 1.1079 in the hauen of Alexandria, Soliman saying that he would vse them in his most important affaires: The marchandize besides which the Venetians were wont to bring forth of Syria had an imposition layd on them oftenne in the hun∣dred: the Bailies letters to the Senate were oftentimes intercepted, and without further dissembling their meaning, M•…•…stapha, one of the cheefe Baschas com∣plaining of them told them, that because they were so streightly allied to the Em∣peror their enemy, they had incurred the hatred and indignation of Soliman.

This gaue him some iust occasion to resent it, and some collour of a lawfull warre, if he had beene disposed thereunto, notwithstanding that diuers other rea∣sons and coniectures did testiffe vnto them the contrary, for it was not likely that [ 30] the Turke being able to make warre vpon the Emperor alone, (who was not ve∣ry strong at Sea), and easily to breake his forces, would enforce the Venetians to ioyne with the Imperialls and to vnite their forces with theirs, which being migh∣ty at Sea, would not only hinder his enterprizes against the states of other men, but likewise greatly endanger his owne, knowing very well that for the space of eight and thrity yeares, the friendship and peace betwixt the•…•… had beene on both sides so carefully obserued, and namely that Soliman had euer made shew, both in his wordes and actions, to desire nothing so much as the Venetians friendships: That since then nothing had happened on the Venetians part, that might alter that quiet, or enforce them to take armes, seeing that the Senate discreetly me∣suring [ 40] the forces of the Ottoman Empire, and fitting their deseignes and actions to the condition of the times, did with great honor and respect proceed in the Turkes behalfe, prouided that the dignity of the Common-wealth might not therein receiue any preiudice, temporising the best they could with so mighty an enemy, whom being not able to assaile, they thought it wisely done to keepe him for their friend, and to expect the commodity of time, or some better fortune of the Common-wealth. At the same time Tomazo Moceniga, Ambassador for the Common-wealth arriued at Constantinople▪ being sent, according to the manner to reioyce with Soliman in the name of the Senate for the happy successe of his warres in Persia, and for his safe returne home to the Citty, He hauing kissed So∣limans [ 50] hands, and presented his vsuall guifts of rich garments, he was well recei∣ued and ent•…•…rtained of all those of the Port, and particularly of Aiax the Visier Bascha, whoe did often-times assure him that their Lord did beare great good-will the Republicke, and was ver•…•… desirous to maintaine that antient

peace and friendship with it, so long as the Venetians should beare them-selues in his behalfe with the like offices of friendshippe: That Soliman had euer vsed to* 1.1080 keepe his word and promise, and thought they ought not feare that h•…•…e would e∣uer doe other-wise. Therefore hee began modestly to excuse the matter concer∣ning Contarens shippe, and other things done to the Venetian Marchants and their marchandize, as matters happened without the great Turkes expresse com∣mandement, and which should be speedily remedied.

There was then a report at that time, how that the Sophy of Persia had taken armes, and that hee would shortly be in the field whereby the Turkes would bee [ 10] enforced to turne their forces vpon Persia: And that the rumor which was cur∣rant, how that th •…•… Turkes had an enterprize vpon Christendome, was rather to maintaine their re•…•…utation among Christian Princes, then for any desire they had at that time to employ their forces against them.

The end of the tenth Booke of the fifth Decade.

[ 20]

The Contents of the first Booke of the sixth Decade.

THE Turke maketh great preparations both by Sea and land to enuade Christendome. The Venetians are [ 30] enforced to arme, and to stand vpon their guard. The French Kings deseigns vpon Italy. The Imperialls are afraid of the Turkish Army. Count Guy de Ran∣gon commeth to Venice, being sent thither by the French King, and is answered quite contrary to his expectation. Three sundry accidents are cause of warre betwixt the Venetians and Soli∣man. The Venetians fleet is by force of wind cast vpon the Coast of Puglia, where that of the turkes lay. The Venetian fleet beeing retired from Puglia, [ 40] Soliman declareth himselfe their enemy. Doria his pollicy to enforce the Ve∣netians to ioyne with him. The Baily Canalis aduiseth the Senate to recon∣cile them▪selues to Soliman. The Venetian Marchants are stayed, and their goods seased on ouer all Solimans Empire. Barbarossa wasteth the Isle of Corfoù. The description of the Isle of Corfoù. The Venetians determine to fight with the Turke. A league contracted betwixt the Emperor, the Pope, and the Venetiams. Doria his delaies, and in the end his refusall to ioyne with the Venetians against the Turkes. The Venetians are constant to assaile the Turkes, not-with-standing that Doria had forsaken them. The Vifier Bascha coun∣celleth Soliman to raise his campe from before Corfoù hauing viewed the place. Soliman seeketh the Venetians friendship.

The seege raised from before Corfou. Soliman determineth to assaile Na∣ples of Romagnia, and Maluefia. Barbarossa his incursions vpon the Veneti∣ans Islands. The Venetians take the Islé of Scardona. The Emperor al∣though hee •…•…ffirmed that hee would make warre vpon the Turkes, is sus∣pected of the contrary. The Popes dilligence to attone the Emperor and the French King. Sundry oppinions in the Senate concerning either warre or peace with Soliman. And lastly the Emperors Ambassador goeth about to breake the Venetians Newtrallity, but in vaine. [ 10]

[ 20]

The First Booke of the sixth Decade of the Historie of Uenice.

THE Venetians by the Bashas speech, remayning irresolute and in doubt either of warre or peace, were greatly trou∣bled, [ 30] wherein the French Ambassador did by a maruelous cunning entertaine them, hoping the•…•…eby to cause them to condescend to his Kings deseignes, to ioyne them-selues with the French, and to abandon the Imperialls friend∣ship, assuring them that if they would so doe, to shield them from all danger on the Turkes behalfe.

In the meane time sundry rumors were bruted in Con∣stantinople, so•…•…e affirming that those great preparations for the fleet, was to* 1.1081 passe into Puglia, and others said that it was to enter into the Venetian Gulph, there to •…•…aile what-so-euer it could finde to belong vnto the Emperor: others [ 40] thought that it was for Barbary, according to the aduise of Cariadine Barbarossa, and others like-wise did threaten the Venetians, naming particularly the Isle of Corfoù.

These preparations were as great by land as by •…•…ea, and made with great speed, so as it was certenly thought, that hee would set forth more then three hundred saile, with great store of ordnance, war like engins, and great quantity of all sortes of munition.

The Venetians being troubled with these preparations, and for diuers occasi∣ons suspecting the Turkes faith, non-with▪standing that the league made of a long time with Soliman did still continue, resolued likewise to arme as fast as they could, [ 50] supposing that there was no safer meanes to assure their affaires, then to stand vpon their gard for feare of beeing surprized. Therefore they beganne to make great prouisions for warre, and leauied on a sodaine eight thousand footemen to re-enforce their garrisons: they did trimme their old Gallie•…•…, and gaue order

to build fifty new ones, they stayed some Venetians, and strangers that were bound for sondry voyages, to make vse of them for the carriage of the munitions and other necessaries for the fleet; determining if dangers did increase to arme the number of an hundred Galleis; and for that purpose, they chose for Gene•…•…all according to their vsual manner, by way of lotte, in the Councell of the Preguais* 1.1082 Ieronimo Pesare, a man very skilfull in the affaires of the common-wealth, and cheefely in sea businesse, who was afterwards allowed by the great Councell. But that which among other matters did most troble them was the care from whence to haue meanes to furnish the expences which they were to make, their treasor beeing wholly exhausted by the late warres, wherby they were to inuent [ 10] sundry extraordi•…•…ry deuises, to get money speedily. They created three Pro∣curators of Saint Ma•…•…ke, which is one of the chiefe dignities in the common∣wealth next to the Duke, namely Andrew Capello, Iero•…•…imo Bragadino, Iac•…•…mo Cornare who did each of them aide the Republicke with twelue thousand crowns, they did afterwards entreat the Pope to permit them to raise two hundred thou∣sand Ducats vpon the Clergy of their state, which the Pope making great difficul∣tie to graunt, alledging sometimes the Clergyes pouerty, and then that he could not bel•…•…eue that Soliman did intend to march against Christendome, they were* 1.1083 enforced to raise it some where else, and amid these troubles and perplexities of mind, they did not forget, following the holy and religious institution of their [ 20] Forefathers, to haue recourse cheefely to diuine assistance, whereuppon solleme prayers were commanded to be made in all Churches & foure hundred measures of wheate were giuen to the poore Friers, to pray to God that it would please him to fauour the good and deuout affection of the Councellors of the State.

The Imperialls were in no lesse care and trouble to be assured of the Turkish forces, wherevppon they caused great numbers of Spanish footmen to passe* 1.1084 into Italy, to lye in Garrison in the Realmes of Sicill and Naples, and in other places exposed to the enemies arriuall; they sent word to Andrew Doria Prince of Melfi, who at the same time was Admiral for the Emperor on the Mediterranian seas, that he should speedily make ready his Gallies, and come into the kingdome [ 30] to ioyne with those of Naples Sicilly, and the religion of Malta, to command there. But these prouisions being weake were not sufficient to resist the Turkish forces. For the Emperor was at the same time enforced to looke to the defense of his other Estates which the French King determined to inuade, who for that* 1.1085 purpose was come to Lyons, from whencehe had sent before him into Italy fif∣teene thousand Almaine and Gascon footmen▪ whervpon the Emperor, to diuert these deseines, r•…•…ised in his Cuntrey of Flanders an army of twenty thousand footmen, and eight thousand horse, to enter vppon the Frontiers of France.

Now that which most hindered them from prouiding for the imminent dan∣gers threatened by the Turkes, were the rumors which were spred abroad, how [ 40] * 1.1086 that the French had an enterprize vppon Genoa, where the Genowaies, being aff•…•…ighted, did boldly tell Doria that they could not suffer him to abandon his cun∣trey, nor to carry the Galleys from thence, which were the sinewes of the Imperi∣all army, because that the two and twenty spanish Galleies that lay at Barcelona were in bad equipage to put to Sea. During these contentions betwixt the Princes of Christendome, the Turke taking his aduantage thereby (as hee had done at sundry times to molest Christendome, departed with his land army about the begining of March and came to Andrinople, where hauing remained a while, and spent some small time in hunting whilest other prouisions were made for his iourney, he went from thence about the la•…•…er end of Iune, and [ 50] came to Scopia a Citty of Macedon, and then tooke his way through the con∣fines of Albania. His naual army departed at the same time forth of the Streight of Galipolis, to the number of more then three hundred saile, (as hath beene said,) whereof, two hundred were Galleis, and the residue, Galeo•…•…s, Fusts, and

other lesser vessells, vnder the command of Lufti Bascha Captaine Generall, who represented the great Turkes person: it was not certainely knowne what com∣mission he had, nor whither he would bend his course: some said that hee was commanded to assaile the Venetians, if occasions were offerd: others affirmed the* 1.1087 contrary, saying, That hee was commanded in no sort to touch any thing that be∣longed vnto them: but the common report was, that he went to inuade Puglia.

Doria in the meane time, being come to Ciuitauechia, and finding the Popes Gallies to be ready there wen to the Far of Messina, there to make a fleet of the Gallies of Naples, Sicill, and other places and perceiuing, that when they were all ioyned together, they were to weake to resist the Turkish forces, determined, [ 10] (after that he had left the greatest part of the Gallies in places of safety) to saile towards the Leuant with a few light Gallies, which he made choyse of, to molest in some fort, (occasion being offered) any thing that did belong to the Turkes, a∣uoyding by all meanes to meet with their fleet. The Venetians hauing notice of the arriuall of the Turkish fleet at Modon, being yet vncertaine whither, or with what commission it sailed, did, not without great doubt consult in the Senate what the Generall Pesare were best to doe, who was already arriued at Corfou with threescore and tenne Gallies.

The Generall had not till then receiued any other commissions then generall, and comformable to the Senates intention, still to remaine neuter, namely to hold [ 20] amity with the Imperialls, and with the Turkes, to preserue whatsoeuer did be∣long to the Common-wealth from wrong, to giue victualls freely to both of* 1.1088 them: to auoyd all occasions of suspition, and to keepe themselues farre off from the Fleets: wherevnto they added, that he should still keepe his fleet together, and not, if it were possible, lea•…•…e the Gulph to the discretion of the Turkes, least they should hinder the Dalmatian Gallies, and others which were making ready at Ve∣nice, from ioyning with them, if need should bee.

The opinions in this Councell were very different (as it often happeneth in such consultations) what he had more to doe, but at last they resolued to referre [ 30] the whole matter to the dilligence and discretion of the Generall, because it was an hard matter well to prouide for the sundry accidents which might happen, ac∣cording* 1.1089 to which, Captaines did for the most part vse to gouerne themselues. They only concluded to diuide the Army, and to create another Generall, of lesse authority then Pessare, so as both of them beeing together Pessare, should haue the sole command, and the other was to remaine in the Gulph, whilest Pessare should be at Corfou, or any where else.* 1.1090

Giouan Vituri was by the common consent of euery one appointed for this place, who was in great account both for his wisdome and valour. This man ha∣uing taken speedy order for his voyage, departed from Venice with some armed [ 40] Gallies of the latter Gouernours, and sailed into Dalmatia, where there came vn∣to him, Francesco Pascalic the Prouidator, with certaine Gallies which were at Corfou, Nicholao Bondimiero Captaine of the Gulph, and Dominico Contaren* 1.1091 Captaine of the Fusts, so that Vituri had six and forty Galleis vnder his com∣mand, besides six Fusts, and the Generall Pessare had foure and fifty Galleis, one Gallion commanded by Bert•…•…ci Contaren, and a great shippe of warre gouerned by Iacomo Armiero.

Now within a while after there arose among the Senators a doubt almost like the former, by reason of the report that was spred abroad how that the Turkish Fleet was comming into the Ile of Corfou, and that they had already descried it from the Ile of Zante, sailing thitherwards amayne, some thinking it fit thereupon [ 50] to keep the fleet diuided, others refuting this opinion, s•…•…id that they ought to per∣mit the Generall Pessare, if he should find it expedient for the Common-wealth, to make a fleet of all the Gallies; and to Command Vituri, that if Pessare should send to him for that purpose, to obey him without expecting any other expresse

commandement from the Senate. Diuers did likewise reiect this opinion, for many reasons, and propounded for the safest course (if that the peace with Soliman were broken) to ioyne their forces with the Imperials (who had already sought it at their hands) and that, as soone as might bee; for the more easie defense of Corfoù. This proposition being reiected like the rest, they at last conclu∣ded to referre the whole matter to Pesare, who might ioyne with Doria if need should be.

The French being aduertized of all these difficulties, and hoping to be able by new practizes to induce the Venetians to consent to that, wherevnto till then they would •…•…euer harken, did forthwith send the Count Guy de Rangone to [ 10] * 1.1092 Venice, who being brought in before the councell of Tenne (the French Ambas∣sadour not being present) who afterwards did the like a part by himselfe, hauing presented his letters of credit from the King, beganne with great eloquence to declare the great good will which King Fra•…•…cis did beare to their Republike, and how highly he did esteeme it, then he did put them in minde of diuers and sundry things which the French Kings had done for the maintenance and stay of that* 1.1093 common wealth; from thence falling vpon the sundry and particular accidents of those times, he did perswade them to abandon the Emperours alliance, and to embrace that of the French King, offering them from him and by his com∣mandement the city of Cremona, and all the country of Gyradade, so, as by their [ 20] common armies the State of Milan might be conquered, promising them be∣sides, all aide and assistance to reduce the Cities of Rauenna and Ceruia vnder their obedience, with the territories of Puglia, Ottranto, Brundusium, Monopo∣li, Polignan, and Trani, by which meanes they should be restored to all that which they had enioyed before the last warres. But hee did especially insist very much vpon the miserable condition of the time, which was to bee considered, promising to defend and shield them, by his Kings meanes and authority, from all those perills and dangers which threatned them from the Turkes to their owne honour and reputation.

This proposition being vttered with great vehemency did greatly trouble the [ 30] mindes of the Auditors, for on the one side, great and faire hope•…•… were propoun∣ded with equall recompences, and yet not with out warre, and great trauaile; on the other side an incertenty of peace, with as many difficulties, did present it selfe before them, the selfe same dangers remay ning stil in force, made far greater by the French Kings indignation, if he should perceiue his friendship, with such goodly offers to be so often contemned and set at nought.

The Senate being assembled therevpon, the Collodge of the wise men, hauing determined to tell the Count Rangon; that the Senate did first of all thanke* 1.1094 him for his great and notable offers made vnto them, then, concerning the vinon which he propounded, that the King might haue perceiued by their actions past, [ 40] what account they had euer made, and now more then euer of the Councell of France, to the which they had neuer beene wanting, nor would euer faile when occasion should be offered, earnestly requesting the King so to hold and beleeue it: one onely person, Marke▪ Antonio Cornare, a man, at that time highly estee∣med,* 1.1095 for his eloquence and great reputation, though he were not very old, being of a contrary opinion, would haue them freely to answere the Count Rangon, That the common-wealth had euer vsed to keepe her promise inuiolably, which was a matter worthy and beseeming a Prince, and that therefore the same being vnited with the Emperour by a new confederacy, could not harken to any other [ 50] contrary therevnto: but they did hope that the King, as a wise and most Christian Prince, and their friend, would not for all that discontinue the good offices which he •…•…ad already begunne in their behalfe towards the Turke: and he did constant∣ly maintaine this opinion by a vehement and perswasiue o•…•…ation; wherevpon he was attentiuely heard, and commended of all men. So soone as he had ended,

Leonardo Eme one of the wise men of the councel, a man of authority, and well experienced in matters of importance both at home and abroad, rose vp, and be∣gan* 1.1096 to answer to euery point of Cornares speech: But neither his authority nor al the reasons which he all eadged to the contrary, could keepe them from answe∣ring Rangon in the same manner as Cornare had propounded.

In the meane time newes were brought to Venice how that the Turkish fleet was arriued at Valona, and that passing along thorow the Channel of Corfoù, it had saluted the castle with ordnance shot in signe o•…•… friendship, according to the vse and manner of warre, that the castle had in friendly sort giuen them the like salutation: and how that Solimon had neither in that Island nor else-where com∣mitted [ 10] any hostile action; but that certaine things, being forcibly taken from some of the Republikes subiects, had beene restored to them, and the Robbers, for terrot to the rest▪ had beene hanged vpon the saile yardes of his galley. Some Senators were of opinion, that the Generall Pesare, in acknowledgement thereof, and vn∣der pretence of peace and friendship, should send some captaine of his Gallies to Soliman, to vse meanes to discouer some of his deseignes; but it was reiected, for feare least the Turkes would interpret it sinisterly to their aduantage, and least the reputation of the Venetian forces should therby be diminished with them, or else giue them some occasion to make some great and vnreasonable demand: but they were within a while after freed of that care, by newes that they receiued, how that [ 20] Iacomo Canalis, going to Constantinople to execute the office of Baily in steed of Nicola Iustinian, and being come to Nouobazar, was by Solimans commandment brought backe to the campe who could satisfie them in all things. At this stay stood the Venetians affaires at that time, neither at open warre, nor assured peace,* 1.1097 all matters being full of feare and suspition, when as vnluckily and vnlooked for, three sundry accidents happened which did cast the Republike head-long into warre with Soliman. The first was that of Simon Nassi the Zaratin, who command∣ing a Dalmatian Galley, did vnfortunately meet with a small Turkish vesselladen with victuals which was going to Valona, against which (because it would not o∣bey [ 30] a certaine signall according to the manner of nauigation, nor strike her sailes) he discharged a cannon and sunke it. Although this fact did greatly trouble Solimans haughty courage, and all his Bashas, yet neuerthelesse making shew to* 1.1098 beare it patiently because he would not perhaps at that time interrupt his other deseignes, he determined to send Ianusbei the Dragoman to Corfou to complain to the Generall Pesare, how that thorow the insolency of a meane captaine of a Galley, the peace betwixt them had beene violated and infringed, and to demand to haue the author therof punished, and the dammages, amounting to more then thirty thousand Ducats, to be repaired. Vpon the neck thereof the second accident* 1.1099 happened. There were foure captains of gallies at the same time at the gard of the channel of Corfou, to wit, Iusto Gradonico, Micaele Grimani, Iacomo de Mezze, and [ 40] Ieromino Micaele: these men so soone as they perceiued those armed vessels to come towards them, which were two Gallies and one Fust, conducting the Turkish Ambassador, without taking any farther notice of them, they fiercely charged them, so as the Turkes being amazed betooke themselues to flight, and supposing that they could not soone enough escape from them, sailed as fast as they could to Cimera, a barbarous nation and enemy to the Turkes: wherevpon, they were bad∣ly entreated there, and al of them committed to prison, and among the rest this Ianusbei. This exploit did greatly discontent the Generall Pesare who in some sort to moderate the fact, did sodainely send Francisco Zene captaine of a Galley to Ci∣mera, to vse meanes with a good sum of money to redeeme Ianusbei, the which for [ 50] the Republiks sake he soone obtained without mony. This being likewise brought to Solimans knowledge, he was prouoked by some of his seruants to take speedy reuenge thereof, yet neuerthelesse hee would not for that time harken there∣unto, but sent for the Baily Canalis to come before him, vnto whom he greatly

complayned of the officers of the Republike, who did not dayly cease to commit deeds cleare contrary to the desire of peace and good will, which he had at his ar∣riuall assured him that the Common-wealth did beare vnto him, at the last he seemed to be content that the Baylife should expresly send some of his seruants to Corfou, truly and particularly to vnderstand how matters had passed, where∣vpon he sodainely sent Alessandro Vrsino thither who was then with him.

Soliman in the meane time continuing his purpose to assaile the coast of Pug∣lia, caused great number of horse to be landed on the territory of Ottranto, who scouring the whole country brought away men, women, and all sort of cattaile, with other moueables, filling the whole country with feare and terror. [ 10]

Doria in the mean time hauing manned eight and twenty light gallies with sol∣diers and mariners, comming to scoure the seas nere to Zante and Zeffalonia, tooke diuers Turkish vessels, which being laden with victuals, were going to Valona, then sayling towards the Gulphe he arriued vpon the sea of Corfou, at* 1.1100 the very same instant in a manner, that Ianusbei being chased by the Venetian Gallies, landed at Cimera, whereby he had his part in the booty, and carried a∣way the empty Turkish vessels, which did much encrease the Turkes hatred to the Venetians, and made them to suspect that they had some secret intelligence with the Imperials. [ 20]

The Generall Pesare being aduertized of Barbarossas departure from the con∣fines of Zant, where he had remayned to assure the victuals which came from Constantinople to the campe, and of his sayling towards Corfoù, did thinke it a very fit occasion for himselfe to make vse of the liberty which the Senate had gi∣uen him, to ioyne both the fleets together, wherevpon he resolued to enter into the Gulphe and to ioyne with the Generall Vitturi, meaning neuerthelesse by all meanes to auoide meeting with the Turkish gallies: But being on his way, and driuen by a contrary winde, he was carried to sea-ward before the winde, to those* 1.1101 quarters where he was to meet with that which he had most of all auoided: for hauing sailed a long time with the whole fleet, and about night being come neere to land, he was councelled to ankor there, to passe the rest of the night, which [ 30] was so darke, as they could not discouer a farre off, which gaue occasion to the third accident. For it fell out, that the vantgard consisting of fiteene Gallies, conducted by Alessandro Contaren the Prouidator, did vnawares strike vpon a Turkish galley (this was an Imperial galley, prepared for the great Turke, if hee should desire to come to sea, and was commanded by Bustan Rais) those within it* 1.1102 hauing, in the Italian tongue, demanded of the Venetians, whose vessel that was which was so neere them, and they replying that it belonged to the Venetians, did aske them the selfe same question, who they were, but they making no answer, vsed all meanes to escape thence, and then on a sodaine shot off a peece of ord∣nance: Contaren being then mooued with disdaine, and spurred forward by a zeale [ 40] to honour and reputation, notwithstanding that the darkenesse of the night would not suffer him to discerne any thing, did neuerthelesse redouble the bankes of Rowers, and followed that Turkish galley, which had plaied an enemies part, and after a long fight, there being more then three hundred souldiers in it, he became Master thereof, by the death of all the Turkes, some few excepted who had hid themselues.

Contaren was by some reprehended for this deed as though being carried a∣way by a particular desire of reuenge, he had enterprized that which he knew to be against the commodity and seruice of the common-wealth, by executing that hostile act vpon the Turkes: yet neuerthelesse others in excusing him said; That He had more then any man else foreseene all those disorders; by meanes whereof, to auoide all occasions, he demanded to haue the army conducted into Candy, seeing that the Turkes had passed as friends thorow the Channell of Corfoù.

The Generall after this exploit passing forwards on his way, came very nere

to the coast of Puglia, where they descried an infinite number of fiers, and heard at the same time sundry shot of ordnance. They thought at the first that it had beene those of the country, who hauing descried the Venetian fleet, and not knowing what vessels they were, did giue warning to the inhabitants round about to retire* 1.1103 themselues into the strong townes: but they soone found the contrary, for it was a warning to the Turkes that were there, speedily to embarke themselues (as they did) and to fall into order of battaile before the Venetian fleet.

Then was there great confusion in the Venetian army for the vnhoped for ar∣riuall* 1.1104 of the Turkish gallies; on the one side danger was very nere, and their doubt very great, whether they were best to escape by flight, or dispose themselues to [ 10] battaile. Flight seemed dishonorable, and of small pofit▪ to fight, was against the Senates expresse command, the which they were to obserue, and not on the vncertaine euent of a battaile, aud to their owne disaduantage hazard the gallies, on which depended the whole defense and safety of their Estate by sea.

Matters remayning in this confusion by reason of these irresolutions, either to abide, or to be gonne, it happened that when the Generall commanded to turne the Prowes, and to returne towards Corfoù, it was done in a manner in disorder, so as all of them preparing with speed to get forth of that danger, fiue Venetian* 1.1105 gallies tarried behind, either because they had not soone enough turned their Prowes, or for that they were not so light as the others, foure of them fell into the [ 20] Turkes hands, who soone after, by declaring himselfe their enemy, did inhumaine∣ly put the foure captaines to death which commanded them, as for the fifth which was commanded by Giouan Baptista Mirchouich of Pago, al-be-it it was farther be∣hinde then any of the rest, did neuerthelesse by chance escape that danger, for carrying in her flag the cressent or half moone, they thought it to be a Turkish gal∣ley, and thereby, being not medled with, it found meanes afterward to escape to Ottranto.

Now this latter exploit caused Soliman wholly to resolue to make warre vp∣on* 1.1106 the Signory of Venice, who was before that time halfe-minded so to doe by reason of the precedent actions, whereby he perceiued the small affection that [ 30] the Venetians did beare vnto him: his seruants likewise the more to animate him therevnto, did agraua•…•…e the matter; and afterwards, a letter of Doria written to Pesare coming to his hands, assured him of that which he most doubted: Doria had (as it was thought) forged that letter, and found meanes to haue it fall into the* 1.1107 Turks hands, to make them beleeue that he had some secret intelligence with the Venetians, and by that means to set them at ods, thereby enforcing them for their safety to ioyne with him, for the which purpose, passing along at the same time almost nere to Corfou, he had craued conference with the Generall Pesare, mea∣ning expresly more then once to hold long discourse, that he might cause the Turkes to enter into some suspition. [ 40]

All these exploits being knowne at Venice did greatly trouble the Senate, where the opinions neuerthelesse were different, some blaming the indiscretion of those who by their rashnesse had throwne the common-wealth head-long in∣to a great and dangerous warre, contrary to the Senates intentions, others, pub∣likely affirming the contrary said, that they had done wel and discreetly, according to the rule and discipline of sea affaires, and the reputation of their army, and af∣ter sundry other reasons propounded on both sides, they concluded to tarry for aduertizements from the Baily, to vnderstand particularly in what manner the Turke had taken those things which were past: and all their determinations a∣gainst those who had offended, were deferred till then. [ 50] * 1.1108

The Baily within a while after, by Solimans commandement sent Alessandro Vr∣sino, who did wholly resolue them of all that they desired to know, and sent them word, sharply to punish those who had violated and broken the peace, and to make it apparent that whatsoeuer had beene done was not by the Senates will

or consent, and that by so doing, Aiax the Visir Basha, did put them in hope of the continuance of the peace. Vpon this aduertisement they resolued to write to the Generall to send the Zaratine captaine, Iusto Gradonico who commanded those Gallies that were for the gard of the Channell of Corfoù when Ianusbei was pur∣sued, with all the rest whom he should thinke had offended in that action, with their legs and hands bound to Venice: as for the Prouidator Contaren they com∣manded* 1.1109 him to saile with his Galley to Zara, where leauing both it and his office, he should come to Venice and present himselfe before the Magistrate of the A∣uogario. Some of the Senators were of opinion to call home the General Pesare likewise, for to purge himselfe of that matter, because that all errors committed [ 10] in warre are to be attributed to the Generall who holdeth the soueraigne authori∣ty, they supposing, that if the Generall, had punished the Zaratine, all the other inconueniences would not afterwards haue happened, and that therefore he was guilty thereof: that the peace with the Turke was of such importance to the Common-wealth, that all other respects were not to be compared to it besides, in regard that the whole fleet was to remaine stil together, there was no need to haue so many Generals, who for the most part doe cause disorder in affaires of im∣portance, rather then any good gouernment.

The Senate not consenting to call home the Generall did sendbacke Vrsino to [ 20] the Baily, and yet they would not haue Soliman at that time to be acquainted with that which had beene concluded against the Prouidator, and the captaines of the gallies, because they would not haue the Turkes to thinke that what they had de∣creed, was done rather to satisfie them, then for their loue to iustice. Therefore they enioyned the Baily to demonstrate the Senates sound and sincere affection, and how desirous the Venetians were to continue their friendship and peace* 1.1110 with Soliman; and that for the better testimony thereof, they would shortly send an expresse messenger vnto him with particular instructions of what had passed, and within a while after, Vincenzo Grimani, Procurator of Saint Mark, was chosen for that purpose.

But before Vrsino camebacke with his instructions to Valona, Soliman, who af∣ter [ 30] the taking of Castro had beseeged Ottranto, being spurred forward by dis∣daine and by Barbarossas pursutes, notwithstanding that he had promised the Bai∣ly to attempt nothing til Vrsinos returne, did neuerthelesse determin to returne to* 1.1111 Valona, and to turne all his forces both by sea and land against the Venetians, and especially to assaile the Island and fort of Corfou, it being at the same time very commodious for him.

It is reported that Aiax the visier Basha, sought by soundry reasons to diuert Soliman from this resolution, by shewing him that in so doing he would encrease* 1.1112 the Imperials forces, who were deadly enemies to the Ottomans, with whom the Venetians should be enforced to ioyne for their owne defense and safety: be∣sides, [ 40] that the yeere being already very farre spent (for it was the latter end of August) would not suffer him to beginne any long or difficult enterprize: that the campe did already want victuals, by reason that Doria had taken so many small vessels laden with victuals: But Barbarossa being greatly incensed for that Doria had taken and sunke twelue of his Gallies at the Merleres, sought to reuenge himselfe vpon the Venetians, saying that it was They, who had giuen meanes, and aduised the Imperials to assaile his Gallies neere to the Channel of Corfou, and in their sight almost, hauing secret intelligence with their enemies, furnishing them with hauens, victuals and all other commodities, so as by these reasons he caused Soliman to condiscend to his councell. [ 50] * 1.1113

Now so soone as he had resolued to make warre vpon the Venetians, he wrote to all places of the Ottoman Empire, where the Venetians had most trafficke, that they should imprison their persons, and seize vpon their goods, and especially at Alexandria, whither three great Gallies were come vpon his word.

Soliman came in the meane time from La Valona to Butrintotto, right ouer a∣gainst Corfou, the more commodiously to passe ouer his forces from thence into the Island. Barbarossa was already gon thither with part of the fleete and some thousand horse to spoile and scoure the country (which he did.)

The newes thereof being brought to Venice (which they had before that time suspected) did greatly trouble all men: for notwithstanding that the castle of Corfou was thought to be strong enough to sustaine all the furious attempts of the Turkes, they neuerthelesse feared, that they should not long be able to resist so* 1.1114 mighty an enemy, and defend their owne State exposed in so many sundry places to his mercy. The Isle of Corfou lieth right ouer against the Venetian Gulphe [ 10] betwixt the Ionian and Adriattick sea, on the North side thereof lieth the coast of Albania, from whence it is some two miles distant, and stretcheth it selfe from the West to the East in manner of a Cressent or halfe Moone, sauing that in the middest, the inward part thereof breaking betwixt the great arch maketh it like two Semicircles, it being in circuit a hundred and twenty miles; that space of sea which lieth betwixt the Island and the firme land, is commonly called the Chan∣nell of Corfou. The aire there is very good, and soile fertil enough, there be∣ing diuers goodly plaines on the Northside. The towne is seated almost in the middest of the Island, within it, vpon the sea, at the foote of an hil which in a man∣ner doth wholly enuiron it, it is of a sufficient bignesse, and inhabited, and there [ 20] were in it at the same time aboue eight thousand persons: but the castle is of no great circuit, nor capable of contayning great store of people, but for the sy∣tuation thereof, most safe against all the assaults of enemies; it hath two fortes in a very high place vpon the point of the hill, which doe not alone beate vpon all sides of the towne walles, and castle, but discouering likewise the sea, and the vallies and neighbour Mountaines, can with their ordnance keepe any army from encamping there, but with great danger. There is no other towne or castle in the whole Island, but diuers country houses scattered here and there in the Champaine: yet neuerthelesse on the South side thereof, vpon an hill, there is a castle called Saint Angelo, stronger by sytuation then by art. [ 30]

This Island had belonged to the Venetians more then an hundred and fifty yeeres, and they did carefully keepe it, as most fit for the conseruation of their dominion at sea, it being accounted the Bulwarke of Italy against the forces of Barbarians: Babon di Nalda was gouernor thereof, being accompanied with di∣uers* 1.1115 Venetian Gentlemen. There was a strong garrison of Italian souldiers in the castle to the number of two thousand, and as many of those of the Island all good souldiers: and besides the Rowers of foure Gallies which were lest there for the gard of the Island, great store of artillery and munition; and for the a∣uoiding of all confusion, euery man knew what he had to doe, which made them without any feare at all to attend the arriuall of the enemies army. [ 40]

The Senate fearing a long seege, and the sinister accidents which do common∣ly accompany it, did resolue to fight with the enemy to cause him to raise his campe, being inuited therevnto by sundry reasons, because they knew first, that so long as the Turkish fleet should remaine whole, furnishing the campe with men, of whom they had great numbers, that the Isle of Corfou and all the rest should remaine exposed to infinite dangers, not for any other cause then the long continuance of the warre, all the forces of the Republike being consumed* 1.1116 and they in danger besides, to loose some portion of their dominions: next, that which did incite them to hazard the fortune of a battaile, was, their owne great fleet of an hundred strong gallies, with the meanes to encrease it, because [ 50] they would not vnprofitably consume the great expences of such a warlike pre∣paration: but that which did most animate them to this resolution, was their hope to be speedily releeued by the other Christian Princes, according to their offers and promises so often reiterated at what time they should enterprize any

thing against the Turke, especially of the Pope and the Emperor; and not to ac∣cept of them at that time, the Commonwealth should seeme wholly to haue for∣gotten her owne safety, and that of all Christendome.

The Imperials had fifty light gallies at sea, with as many other great armed vessels, the Pope had foure gallies there, and the Knights of Malta some other.* 1.1117 These forces being ioyned to theirs, they hoped to chase away the Turkish fleet, and if they could not free Corfou from the seege, yet at least to open a way to some great and notable exploit, wherevpon▪ hauing certaine notice that the ene∣mies army was come to Corfou, and thereby warre declared against them, they determined to write to Marke-Antonio Contaren their Ambassadour in the [ 10] Court of Rome, that in speaking particularly of this businesse to the Pope, toge∣ther* 1.1118 with the Senates resolution, he should declare vnto him the greatnesse of the danger, in the common cause of Christendome, and the speed which it behoued them to vse, against the common enemy.

The Pope hauing vnderstood the Senates resolution seemed to be highly plea∣sed therewith, sauing that he did desire nothing so much, as during his Papacy, to* 1.1119 see all Christian Princes vnited together against those Infidels, who in the meane time that the Christians had particular quarrells one with an other, were so mightily encreased, as they now did threaten to ruine them.

Therevpon, he did not only confirme the offers and promises that were made [ 20] before, but did likewise augment them, and as a most discret and well aduised person, he motioned the making of an vnion and league together against that common enemy, wherevnto▪ his exhortation to all other Princes, and especially to the Emperor, was of great force.

This league beeing resolued on, it was concluded by a Generall consent of all men to arme two hundred light Gallies, and the greatest number of* 1.1120 ships of warre and other great vessels that they could, and in them to embarke fifty thousand foot-men, and foure thousand horse; But because some difficulties seemed to arise concerning the distribution of that expence, and vpon other Ar∣ticles, and that the time in the meane space did vrge them speedily to send away [ 30] the army to the releefe of Corfoù; the Pope by confirming that which had beene concluded, would presently haue the league to bee published, to giue it more force and reputation, and to inuite the other Christian Princes to embrace and follow it, reseruing the conclusion of certaine points, till he could receiue newes from Spaine.

It was sollemnly published in Saint Peeters Church, where Gasparo Contaren, the Venetian Cardinall, celebrated masse in the presence of the Pope, and the* 1.1121 whole Colledge of Cardinalls: the like was afterwards done at Venice, with prai∣ers in all Churches, to giue thankes vnto God for that he had vnited the Chri∣stian Princes against the Infidells: and for the execution of that which had beene [ 40] concluded, the Senate sent word to the Generalls, that leauing the Cap∣taine of the Gulphe with foure Gallies for the guard of Dalmatia, they should saile with the whole fleete to Brandiza: they did afterwardes make a great leauy of foot forces for to fill vp the promised number, then they ap∣pointed captaines for the great Gallies, and for the bastard ones, who did very* 1.1122 speedily cause them to be made ready, which sailed all of them vnder the conduct of Boudumiero, captaine of the Gallion: so as in a short space, all things were rea∣dy on the Venetians part.

Andrew Doria, who lay at Naples, hauing intelligence of that which had beene [ 50] * 1.1123 concluded at Rome and Venice, that he should meet at Brandiza to ioyne with the Venetians fleet, alleadging sundry excuses, some times that he would saile towards Marseilles against the French nauall army, then, that he would go to Genoa, to new man his gallies, and to make prouision of other necessaries, did by all meanes prolonge his departure, notwithstanding that Gasparo Bassalu the

Venetians Counsull at Naples did earnestly vrge it, by declaring vnto him the importance of the Isle of Corfou, which was to be preserued and defended from the danger wherein it was, in doing whereof, notwithstanding that he was to doe the Emperour seruice, he should neuerthelesse purchase great glory and repu∣tation, the enterprize being executed vnder his conduct and command as Gene∣rall of the army: As also, for that he was obliged therevnto by his promise of∣ten made to the Venetians, vpon which they had not feared to commit into his hands all their forces, which were very great, and such, as the assurance of their Estate by sea, did wholly depend vpon them.

Doria, not being mooued with all these reasons, answered that they should [ 10] * 1.1124 haue accepted his offers at that time when occasion was offered of ouerthrowing Barbarossa, when with a part of his army he passed thorow the Channel of Cor∣fou, so, as neither the Popes letters which he wrote vnto him with his owne hand, nor the arriuall of the Emperors Ambassador at Naples, who for that purpose came thither expresly from Rome in post, could in any sort alter his determinati∣on, but he speedily departed from Naples to goe to Genoa, saying that he would acquaint the Emperor with what had passed, and there attend his commandment. The departure of Doria, and his manner of proceeding did greatly trouble the Ve∣netians, not so much for that their hope was frustrate of being able to breake the* 1.1125 Turkish army, as for to see themselues vnder vaine promises, deceiued by the Im∣perials: [ 20] yet neuerthelesse al-be-it that Doria his departure, and the report that Barbarossa was comming into the Gulphe with an hundred gallies might haue perswaded them to countermand their Generalls not to goe to Brandiza; the Senate notwithstanding, to shew their constancy in matters determined and re∣solued vpon, and to preserue the reputation of their army, which would haue* 1.1126 beene much blemished, if they should haue seemed to depend wholly vpon Dori∣as councels and actions, after sundry opinions, resolued to alter nothing of that which had been determined, but made a new request to the Pope, that he would command the Count of Anguillare to saile with the Churches gallies and those [ 30] of Malta to Brandiza according to their former resolution.

The Turkes in the meane time had landed fiue and twenty thousand men and thirty peeces of ordnance in the Isle of Corfou, & builded foure Caualliers round about the castle, to make them equall to those within it, and to beate downe their defenses, hauing first wasted the whole Island, cut downe the fruite trees, burned the country houses, and led away as prisoners al those whom they found in the I∣sland which had not saued themselues in the castle, many neuerthelesse escaped into Saint Angelos castle, the sytuation of the place being able to gard them: Then hauing begunne the battery and perceiuing, that by reason of the long dis∣tance of the place, where they had beene enforced to build their Caualliers, for [ 40] feare of the ordnance within, their cannon shot was of no great force, they were desirous to approch neerer, but they were beaten backe with cannon shot to their great harme & losse. The Visier Basha came twice from Butintrot into the Island,* 1.1127 and being come vpon the brinke of the castle dike to view the place, reported to Soliman that the sytuation of the place, and the fortifications were such as their was no hope in a long time to doe any good there, wherevpon he coun∣celled Soliman to raise the seege, and to retire his armies, which beganne alrea∣dy to seele great discommodities, as well by sicknesse, as by the small store of victuals that was brought thither: as also because that winter drew nere, a very vnfit season for such an enterprize, and that the longer he tarried there, the more he should loose his reputation, being afterwards enforced to discampe [ 50] without any prosperous successe: that hee had by a sodaine alteration tur∣ned his forces vpon that enterprize which had beene prepared for other more easie purposes against the Emperour, and therefore that hee was not to wonder if the euent of a rash and head-long action, had not answered the

fortunate successe which was wont to follow the wise and discret councels of the Ottomans: that he should send away his two armies by sea and land to Constan∣tinople, there to refresh them which were much weakened by sundry accidents, to the end they might the yeere following with better successe enterprize some ex∣ploit more assured and generous.

Such was the opinion and councell of Aiax the Visier Basha, yet neuerthelesse to preserue their reputation feigning some other deseignes contrary to that which he spake; or rather enuying Barbarossa his greatnesse, and seeking to dis∣grace him by reconciling the Venetian Common-wealth to Soliman, he called for the Venetian Baily, who had still followed the campe, and told him, that if his [ 10] countrymen would satisfie the harmes and dammages, as well of men as other matters, which Soliman had susteined at that seege, and make a demonstration, how that whatsoeuer had happened, was not by the consent or appointment of the common-wealth, he had so handled the matter, that the seege should be raised from before Corfou, and his countrimen should recouer peace and friendship, as in times before with Soliman: Ianusbei the first Dragoman did afterwards affirme that the same came from Solimans selfe, as that did manifest which soone after en∣sued, the Baily hauing leaue giuen him to send one of his followers to Venice for that purpose, who was conducted in safety by two Chiaus to Castel-nouo.

But Soliman almost at the same time not tarrying for any answere raised his [ 20] * 1.1128 campe, and hauing shipped his ordnance and al his souldiers, sailed towards Con∣stantinople after that he had continued his seege for ten daies space, and carried away with him more then fifteene thousand soules into bondage. The Isle of Pas∣su very nere to Corfou, with Butrintor, seated on the firme land on Albanias side a nere neighbour to it, tasted the like harme and losse.

Barbarossa departing with the army from before Corfou, sailed towards Pre∣ueze, Soliman not permitting him to remaine vpon those seas with an hundred gallies to scoure the coastes of Puglia and Sicily.

It was supposed at that time, that the chiefest cause that mooued Soliman so so∣dainely to raise his campe, was certaine newes from Persia: because, that two [ 30] daies before this resolution, some Olaches were speedily come to the campe, and the cause of their comming not being diuulged, it was certainly thought that they had brought bad newes, that nation being wont to publish euery where anything that did concerne their glory or reputation, and to keepe secret and conceale that which might procure them any contrary effect: but vndoubtedly, the true cause of his dislodging, proceeded from the great difficulties which Aiax had discouered in that enterprize of Corfou.

The newes of the enemies discamping did infinitely reioyce the Venetians, and generall processions were made for it, with praiers in Churches, and sun∣dry* 1.1129 almes giuen to the poore Monasteries and other deuout places of the city. [ 40] But Soliman seeking to molest the Venetians in sundry places, had at the same time commanded Cassin the Sangiack of Morea, that assembling all the souldiers round about, he should beseege Naples of Romagnia and Maluesia.

The Republike had held vnder her dominion diuers of the principall townes of Morea, the fruitfullest country of al Grecia, and the most renouned for the great number of vertuous men that are issued from thence: it had lost in the former wars against Baiazet Ottoman, grand-father to this Soliman, Modon and Coron; it stil possessed these two, being seated in a most strong place, and filled with inhabi∣tants that did greatly affect the Venetians.

Naples is seated on a small Promontory, the which comming forth from the [ 50] * 1.1130 land maketh a great and safe hauen, and is in such sort encompassed by the sea, as of the foure parts thereof, the therd is enuironed therewith, and the land side hath a very high and difficult going vp, so as there is but one little narrow way to goe vnto the towne, which lieth betwixt the hilles side and the sea; and the outward

bankes are so high and vneasie, as it is impossible for the gallies to batter the walles, or to land those that are within them: the entry likewise of the Hauen hath a very narrow mouth, so as but one galley at once can enter i•…•…to it, which may be easily defended by the ordnance of a little castle, seated on a small rock, in the middest of the sea, right opposite to the entry, some three hundred paces off, which can on all sides beate vpon the vessels that will come nere to the hauen, and yet it selfe not to be battered from the land, nor by the gallies, none but smal boats be∣ing able to come nere it, by reason of sundry points of rocks which lie round a∣bout it.

Maluesia is likewise seated in the same Prouince, and more neere to the [ 10] * 1.1131 Cape of Mailla, vpon a mountaine, or rather a small rock of eight hundred pa∣ces, which being diuided from the firme land, extendeth it selfe in a long and na∣row forme to sea wards: so as this towne being seated on an high place is enui∣roned on all sides by the sea, there beeing none other entrance into it but by a bridge, the waters neere therevnto not being in any sor•…•… foordable by reason of their exceeding depth, and as nature hath furnished that place with such strength and naturall safety, it hath likewise giuen it wholesome fountaines, with a good and fertill soile, and a goodly plaine on the top of the mountaine, from whence victuals may be prouided for fi•…•…ty or three score men, who are sufficient for the guard thereof. [ 20]

Vittore de Garzons, in quality of Baily; commanded Naples, a man of ripe yeers,* 1.1132 and of great experience, by reason of the great offices which he had borne both by sea and land. This man by his valor and good councell, and by the trustinesse of the inhabitants did not only defend the place from all perill and danger, but likewise by the sallies of his cauallery, did assure the country nere adioyning, and greatly molest the enemies.

Cassin, who for to obey Soliman was come into those quarters with as great for∣ces as hee could raise, hauing sounded those of Maluefia both by promises and threats, returned towards Naples, and hauing perceiued the difficulty of the enter∣prize, and being without suffitient means to take it by seege or by assault, hee dis∣lodged [ 30] thence, and dismissed part of his army, placing the residue in garrison in the nerest townes therevnto within •…•…ixe miles of the city.

Barbarossa on the other side with three score and ten gallies, and thirty as well Galeots as Fusts giuen him by Lustimbei, hauing scoured the Islands of the Archi∣pelago belonging to the Republike, tooke some of them which had not meanes of defense, either for want of souldiers, or for that their sytuation was not strong e∣nough to susteine his attempts, such as were the Islands of Scyro, Pathmos, Ligi∣na, and some likewise belonging to particular persons, as Nia, proper to the family of the Pisani, Stampallea to the Quirni, Paros very famous for marble,* 1.1133 subiect to the family of the Venieri, with diuers others, Barbarossa pursuing his [ 40] victory to the content of his souldiers vnto whom he gaue the pillage, reseruing neuerthelesse the b•…•…st of the spoile as presents, for the chiefe of the Port, to pur∣chase to himselfe new fauours, to the end that the yeere following hee might be permitted to scoure the seas with greater forces and more authority.

Diuers Venetian captaines after that the enemies had raised their campe from before Corfoù, propounded, that the Venetian fleete should follow them to stop these incursions and disorders which euery man did already foresee, by that meanes to preserue those Islands, from whence they receiued many com∣modities, and chiefly great numbers of men for to man their gallies, yet neuer∣thelesse, they had respect to the time, and to the enemies forces, from whom [ 50] they feared some sinister accident: and aboue all they especially considered the Senates intention, which was to vnite the Confederates forces, to which nothing was more contrary, then to bee farre off with the army, wherevpon they resolued (quitting this proposition) that the Generall Pesare taking with

him a great number of souldiers from the garrisons of Dalmatia, should with certaine gallies goe and beseege Scardona, and Vitturi with other some should saile to Obrouazza.

Scardona, lieth nere to Sebenic, and therefore they thought it fit to take it, for the safety of that fort, and to take away the great discommodities which al those of the country round about might receiue from thence, it being possessed by the e∣nemy: it was circled with very weake walles, and had two small castles: wherevp∣on,* 1.1134 so soone as the Venetian troupes drew nere, the Turkes that were wi•…•…hin it, af∣ter some small resista•…•…ce, did yeeld to the discretion of the generall Pesare, who notwithstand•…•…g that he had •…•…termined to receiue them, on condition to giue [ 10] them their liues and goods, yet neuerthelesse, his commandement being neither heard nor obeyed in that fury, the first that entred it beganne forthwith to waste and •…•…oile, and the Turkes which were gon forth to escape into their Confines being encountred by a troupe of armed men of the country of Sibenic, were all of them cut in peeces. The Generall left Francisco Salom•…•…ne for the gard and go∣uernment of that place, determining at that time to fortifie it, yet neuerthelesse hauing afterwards considered, the great difficulty of so doing, and the expenses of entertayning a garrison amongst so many of the enemies fortes, with the hurt which would redound if it we•…•… againe recouered by the Turkes, he thought it fit∣test and most profitable to race the castles, and to satisfie himselfe, for hauing ta∣ken [ 20] such a place of retreate from the enemies.

As for those of Obrouazza, the Turkes that were within it, though they were* 1.1135 but few in number, did valliantly for a time defend the place, afterwards, being enforced to quit it, they retired into the castle, the which whilest the Venetians made al things ready to beseege, the gallies were countermanded by the General, hauing had a new commandement from the Senate to saile with the army to Cor∣foù, as resoluing aboue al things to gard that place, which was of so great impor∣tance for them. The winter season being much spent, the exploits of warre did for that yeere cease, all men expecting what would be the beginning of the yeere fol∣lowing 1537. Soliman seemed to be desirous of peace with the Venetians, wher∣of [ 30] * 1.1136 the Visier Basha by his commandement made a motion to the Baily Canalis, perswading him to cause the Ambassadour to come to Constantinople who had* 1.1137 beene already appointed for that purpose, vnto whom he promised to giue a pas∣port, and good enterteinment▪ But by how much the Turkes did vse gentlenesse and curtezy, contrary to their fierce and haughty nature, by so much the more did* 1.1138 the Venetians suspect their speech and actions, doubting that vnder these treaties, they sought not a firme peace, but how to separate them from the Emperours friendship, and to breake the practizes of the league.

The Emperor Charles on the other side made shew that all his thoughts were bent to make warres vpon the Turkes, so as he often times said, that he greatly de∣sired [ 40] * 1.1139 to march against them in person, to haue a share in that glory, crauing none other recompence then that; being willing to haue whatsoeuer should be conque∣red from them, to be ioyned and vnited to the dominions of the Venetian com∣mon-wealth, the which he termed the very bulwarke against the Turkish forces, and that he might the better▪ intend that enterprize, he had consented to a truce with the French King in Flanders. Such in outward apparence were the discour∣ses of the Emperor and his officers in Italy, who made a shew to be very careful of* 1.1140 preparing al things for the warres. Doria promised to haue his gallies ready in a short space, & to ioyne them with the Venetian fleet, assuring them that he would in that war do some notable seruice to Christendome, and to the profit of the Sig∣nory. [ 50] The Marquis of Guasto gouernor of Milan did the like, both of thē seeking to make al men beleeue, that the Emperor in that businesse did proceed w•…•…h great zeale & affection, yet neuerthelesse, many were of opinion that these exterior shews of the Emperor were only to hide some other of his design•…•…, & to prouoke

the Venetians in the meane time to war, who by altogether intending the league, might wholy breake it with Soliman, and thereby be enforced to ioyne with him, who was more desirous to make war vpon the French, to assure vnto himselfe the State of Milan, then vpon the Turkes.

Sundry signes of the Emperors secret purposes were discerned: his long delay* 1.1141 to answer the Senate concerning that which it had written to him about the league, then his refusall to make a generall truce with the French, and lastly the re∣port which was current, how that by meanes of a Spaniard, nephew to the viceroy of Sicil, and prisoner to the Turkes, he made meanes by faire promises to pur∣chase the friendship of Barbarossa, and namely, that Barbarossa passing by the Far [ 10] of Messina, at such a time as there were none to make resistance, had in no sort touched any that did belong vnto the Emperor.

As for the French King, all men did perceiue how desirous he was of peace, and that the Venetians should be in league and amity with Soliman, that he might see* 1.1142 them freed from all constraint of being vnited to the Emperor, to the end that if he should happen to make warre vpon the Emperor he might easily draw them to his party; although he did greatly desire to be friends with him, hoping there∣by to obteine the Dutchy of Milan for the Duke of Orleans his second sonne, per∣ceiuing very well that he could not get it by force, wherevpon he did willingly harken to all motions of peace that were propounded to him. [ 20]

Francisco Iustiniano by the Senates command went to him, not in quality of an Ambassador, but only as a Gentleman of Venice, who was honorably enter∣tained and welcomed by the King. The Pope likewise to this end, sent both to the* 1.1143 Emperor and the King, to euery of whom the King answered that he desired no∣thing so much as peace: and whereas he vnderstood that the Emperor propoun∣ded a meeting at Narbona, there to consult thereon, he speedily sent the Cardinal of Lorraine & the great Master of France thither, with ample instructions to con∣clude a peace. But all these assemblies prouing vaine and to none effect, the Ve∣netians were greatly perplexed. For some, reiecting that which did make them to [ 30] * 1.1144 doubt and feare, did promise to themselues that being ioyned with the other Christian Princes, they should be able not only to defend their State from the Turkes, but likewise to daunt and ouerthrow their pride, wherevpon they were of opinion to embrace the league, and to continue the war. Wherevnto they were the more prouoked by an opinion that al Germany was wholy ready to take armes against those Barbarians, being incited therevnto by Ferdinand King of the Ro∣mans to reuenge himselfe on Soliman, who had a long time molested him in Hun∣gary. Vpon this hope, time hasted away, they not answering the Bailies letters, for that they could not resolue on the motions of peace made by the Turke, and vp∣on the Bashas particular discourse to the Baily, the which did greatly displease the other Senators who opposed themselues against all propositions that were made [ 40] of sending new commissions to Rome concerning the league, saying that it was not expedient for the Common-wealth to reiect all propositions of peace, and altogether to intend the practizes of the league: that they ought first, well* 1.1145 to examine the conditions and State of the present affaires, and afterwards to see how they could make warre, with what forces and meanes they could continue it: that the publike treasure was so exhausted by the last warres on the firme land, as the Republike had more need of long quiet, then to enter into a new warre, more dangerous then all the former; and for to shew that their hope vpon the aide of other Princes was badly grounded, they were to call to minde, that the Isle of Corfou by Dorias meanes, who derided their deseignes, had beene almost [ 50] lost, had not their owne forces and the sytuation of the place defended it: that they ought not stil to contemne the great interests of so many citizens, who were to vndergoe the burthen of so many subsidies, whose meanes were in the Turkes hands and who were in hope by that treaty to recouer them from them.

Diuers other reasons were propounded to direct them from war, which were answered by those of the contrary opinion, how that they did not abhorre peace, but that they did in some sort seeke to prouide for the necessities of the times, if they should happen to maintaine warre, and that which kept them from writing* 1.1146 to Constantinople, was because they would not giue any cause of iealozie and sus∣pition to the Christian Princes▪ 〈◊〉〈◊〉 least they should after-wards grow could in their 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 war•…•…: that to make 〈◊〉〈◊〉 greate hast to send an answer, was to discouer their weakens to the Turke, and to make him become more insolent in the conditions of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉: 〈◊〉〈◊〉 they were not to make account of expen∣ces, in regard that they were to arme howsoeuer, and being armed to treate of [ 10] peace, and not rashly to rely vpon the faith: and discretion of those perfidious enemies.

In this manner did the practize of the league continue, by delaying the affaires of Constantinople. But at the last, by meanes of diuers, who did not cease to so∣licit them to send an answer, and not wholy to giue ouer that treaty, and to take* 1.1147 armes, it was propounded in the Senate to write to the Bayly, still to entertaine the Basch•…•… Aiax, and to tell him how that the common-wealth had great cause to complaine of Soliman, who without being prouoked had broaken the peace, and came like an enemy to enuade the Isle of Corfoù, not tarring for Vrsinos returne, who by his expresse command was sent to Venice, with promise to attempt no∣thing [ 20] till his returne, that the Senate had beene euer very carefull to continew the peace and friendship with Soliman, whose enterprizes it had neuer sought to hinder, but had inuiolably kept there promise with him, euer behauing themselues as newters: If the Generall •…•…esare had met with his forces vpon the coast of Pug∣lia where the Turkish army lay, it was by meere chance, hauing beene driuen thi∣ther by force of the windes. Their drift that propounded this was, to haue the Baily by this discourse to vse meanes to discouer the Turkes meaning concer∣ning peace, and if he should see any good likelihood there-vnto, then to beginne to motion it.

This being thus propounded in the Senate, three daies were spent in the reso∣lution [ 30] thereof, after-which, the matter hauing beene long debated by the cheefe* 1.1148 Senators, two voyces wanting for the ending of it, the whole matter remayned vn∣resolued; the promises of Princes hauing made such an impresion in all men, as they wholy relied thereon.

Don Lopes the Emperors Ambassador hauing notice of this irresolution, ho∣ping that the Common-wealth would make a more strict alliance, with the Em∣geror,* 1.1149 beganne to solicite the Senate (as Doria had already done) to Vnite and ioyne their nauall Armies, and to bee no longer newters, but openly to declare them▪selues enemies to the Turkes. But the wisest and best aduised among them, meaning not to bee carried away by words abused by vaine and idle promises, did [ 40] continue in their former proposition, not to take armes but vpon constraint a∣gainst so mighty an enemy, who was able in so many sundry places to enuade the State of the Common-wealth, which was not alone of it selfe suffitient to make defence against him, and ought not to rely ouer-much on an others helpe. Therefore they determined to answer the Ambassadors offers in generall termes, and by the same meanes to thanke the Emperor as author thereof, assuring him* 1.1150 that for diuers respects they could not passe on any father, and namely because that the French and the Turkes seeking their friendshippe, they had answered them, that they would not therein giue them satisfaction, by reason that the Se∣nats meaning was by shewing them-selues newters, to keepe their promise with [ 50] all men, intending neuer-the-lesse to remaine armed what-so-euer should befall, setting alwaies before their eyes, with their owne proper interest, the commo∣dity of all Christendome.

At this answer the Ambassador held his peace, not making any farther reply:

but within a while after comming into the Senate, he made another request vnto them, which was, that for feare least the French should come downe into the State of Milan, they would raise the six thousand foote-men to defend it, which they were bound to furnish by their last accord, for which the Duke of Vrbin ha∣uing taken speedy order, who was their Captaine Generall, they replied, that there was no need to cause those troupes to march any farther, which were ap∣pointed onely for the defense of the State of Milan; seeing that the French were still making warre in Piedmont, and that so soone as they should passe the riuer Sefia, it would be the•…•… time to vrge their promise, which they would in no sort breake. [ 10]

The end of the first Booke of the sixth Decade.

[ 20]

The Contents of the second Booke of the [ 30] sixth Decade.

THE Venetians doe hasten the fortification of the Islands and Sea townes of their iurisdiction. Andre Doria is cho∣sen Generall of the Army of the league. Solimans great pre∣parations against the Venetians. The Venetian Senate resolue to make warre vpon Soliman. The league concluded andre∣solued on betwixt the Pope, the Emperor and the Venetians against Soliman. [ 40] The French King refuseth to enter into the league. The treaty of peace be∣twixt the Emperor and the French King, is broken. The Pope commeth to Nice to attone them, where truce was onely graunted. Barbarossa wasteth the Islands of the Archipelago; Hee commeth into Candy, with his retreate thence. The Senate sendeth supplies into Candy. The Sangiach of Morea sum∣moneth the cities of Naples and Maluesia in Morea to yeeld. The Turkes, wast and Spoyle Dalmatia, whither the Senate sendeth supplies. The Turkes take certaine Castles in Dalmatia. A motion made in the Senate for the recouery of [ 50] that which they had taken there. The Turkes returne doth breake that motion. The Emperor after that the Venetians had renued the league sendeth his Nauall Army to Corfoù.

The Army of the league resolueth to goe and assalt the Castle of Preueze. Do∣ria fauoreth the Army of Barbarossa Doria is vnwilling to giue Bar∣barossa battaill. The Generall Capel complaineth for that they did not fight. And lastly, Dorias retreat to Corfoù, to the great greefe and discon∣tent of the whole Army.

[ 10]

The Second Booke of the sixth Decade of the [ 20] Historie of Uenice.* 1.1151

THE Treaty of peace being wholy broken, and no hope remaining but in armes, dilligent and carefull prouision was made in Venice of all things necessary for the warre, great numbers of vessells, and soldiors, munitions and vic∣tualls to furnish the Islands, and other townes on the Sea coast. Those of Naples and Maluesia made sute to haue their Garrisons augmented, and especially to furnish them sufficiently with victualls and munition, for want of which [ 30] Naples had like to haue fallen into the enemies hands, promising that if they might be thus releeued, to sustaine all the perills and dangers of warre, to keepe those Citties vnder the Venetians obedience.

The Isle of Candy made the like request, where certaine troubles being raised* 1.1152 and sundry scandalous speeches giuen forth that they would yeeld to the enemy, if hee should come thither, for feare of sacke and spoyle, as it had happened in the Islands of thy Archipelago, the cheefe townes of the Island sent Ambassadors to Venice to cleere them▪selues o•…•… that imputation, and to let them know that the error of some of base condition had occasioned those reports, rather by cowar∣dize and indiscretion, then for any euell will: and therefore they did offer to spend [ 40] both their meanes and liues for the seruice of the Common-wealth, promising to giue sufficient and ample testimony of their loyalty, earnestly and humbly en∣treating them, not to forsake them, seeing that they were ready, and determined to make defense.

The Senate did willingly giue eare vnto them, and with faire speeches, and great promises, they were sent backe againe; where-vpon, the Generall was commanded to send fiue and twenty Gallies to the Isle of Candy, vnder the con∣duct of the Prouidator Pascalie, who had like-wise commission to carry soldiers and victualls to Naples, and to leaue foure Gallies there for the guard of the city. They did in like manner furnish the Castle, and Isle of Corfoù, with all things ne∣cessary. [ 50] As for Dalmatia, sundry companies of light horse drawne from Greece* 1.1153 and Croatia, were sent thither to gard the country against the enemies incursions. But that which did trouble them, was the vncertenty which way they would take, there being sundry speeches thereof: whereby they were at one time to prouide

for all the places which they held vppon the sea, and likewise to assure Patria in Frioul, because the report was, that Soliman in person would be in his land army which made them feare that he might come thither.

In the meane time the last conclusion of the league, was most ernestly sollici∣ted, whose forces were supposed would be very great, which was the cause that no* 1.1154 more mention was made of the treaty of peace, the which for a time lay dead. The Venetians, to please the Emperor, had chosen Andrew Doria Generall of the whole army, and the Pope, in fauour to the Common-wealth, had appointed Marco Grimani Patriarke of Aquileia to command his Gallies, a Venetian by na∣tion, and of a noble and rich family. But there rested to conclude the portion of [ 10] their expence which each of the Confederates were to beare in that common en∣terprise, knowing very wel that the third part was to great for the Sea Apostolick, the Venetians being contented somwhat to ease it, and that the Emperor should beare the rest: but his Agents, notwithstanding they said that it was reason to ease the Pope, would neuerthelesse not giue their consent to haue him charged more then the Venetians.

The Emperour at the last fearing least that the delay of the conclusion of* 1.1155 the league, might breed some coldnesse in those who were most foreward to warre, and might in the end cause the Senate to giue eare to the propositions of peace, and that thereby he might be enforced alone to sustaine all the Turkes at∣tempts, [ 20] did encrease the authority of his Agents at Rome, promising to be plea∣sed with whatsoeuer they should agree to, and cheefely concerning the difficul∣tie about the expence, suffering the Pope to beare but the sixth part, and of the residew, the three partes should bee for him▪selfe, and the two for the Venetians.

Whilest these treaties were made in the Court of Roome, Genesino who at* 1.1156 Constantinople serued as Dragoman for the Common-welth, arriued at Venice, bringing letters from the Bayley, and was enjoyned by the Visier Bascha, and the admirall, to aduise, councell, and exhort the Venetians to harken vnto peace, he did afterward acquaint them particularly with the great warlicke preparations which were made in sundry places of Solimans Empire: he told them besides, from [ 30] Aiax the Visier Bascha, that he did greatly maruaile why they had not answered his former letters; that he did neuerthelesse beare the selfe same good will and af∣fection to the Republike; that a way lay open vnto them for peace, if they would send their Ambassador to the Port of the great Lord, to iustifie their actions past, and by the satisfaction for losses to vse meanes to appease Soliman, who o∣therwise was ready to make inuasion vpon them.

The arriuall of this Dragoman and his new offers, did cause sundry effects in the Senate, for it did more animate those that craued warre, and strengthened the other in their opinion which required peace. Therefore the Senate being there∣vppon [ 40] assembled to answere the Baily, the businesse being brauely disputed on in the assembly, cheefely by Marc Antonio Cornare, who had at other times main∣tained in that place, That it behooued them to ioyne with the League, and to* 1.1157 make warre: and by Marco Foscare who was one of the Councell, and by his skill and long experience in the managing of publicke affaires, had purchased great au∣thority, it was determined by the plurality of voices, according to the former resolution, not to write vnto Constantinople at all, but onely for to make warre.

Therevppon, within a while after, they sent ample commissions to their Am∣bassadors at Rome, for the conclusion of the league, and for the signing to the [ 50] articles thereof, on which, after a long contestation, they had agreed, and which were read and approoued in the Senate, beeing these: That there was a league and confederacy made betwixt Pope Paul the third, the Emperor Charles the fift, and the Republick and Senate of Venice, as well offensiue as defensiue, against

Soliman King of Turkes: whereby the Confederats did promise, to make warre vpon the Turkes with two hundred Gallies, a hundred armed ships, and fifty thou∣sand Italian footemen, tenne thousand Spaniards, and twenty thousand Almans, with foure thousand fiue hundred horse, armed after the Bourgonian manner, to which forces were added a sufficient quantity, of artilery, munition and other necessaries, which should yearely be ready about the midest of March.

Of these Gallies, the Pope armed thirty sixe, the Emperor foure score and two, and the Signory of Venice as many, vnder the command of Vincenzo Capello their Generall, the Emperor was bound to furnish all the shippes of warre, and the Venetians to lend the Pope Gallies ready furnished with all necessaries. Concer∣ning [ 10] the expence, it was diuided as aboue is said. Ferdinand King of the Romans, was vnder-stood to be comprehended in that Confederacy, whome the Emperor did promise should wholy ratisie it, and would cause him to leuy an army a part to assaille the Turkes in Hungary. The most Christian king was therin likewise com∣prehended, so soone as he should declare that he would accept of the cheefe and most honorable place, which they had reserued for him: wherein the Pope was to appoint with what forces he should be present there. That the Pope should likwise vse meanes to draw the King of Poland, and the other Christian Princes to this Vnion: and if that any contention should arise among the Confederate Princes* 1.1158 concerning the League, the Pope was to decide it, and to make them friends. An∣dre [ 20] Doria was (as hath beene said) Generall by Sea, and the Duke of Vrbin for the enterprizes of the firme land.

As for the conquests which should bee made by the common armes, it was mentioned in a scedule apart, that euery of the confedrates should enter vpon the same state, which had belonged vnto him: so as if they should conquer the Empire of Constantinople, it should belong to the Emperor, without preiudice to the claimes of the Republike, and so in like manner of the rest, but for the Apos∣tolike sea was reserued the preeminecne of some State worthy the merit therof, & according to the quallity of the conquest that shold be made. Concerning other things where-vnto no man laid any claime, that euery of the Confederats might [ 30] haue a share therein according to the expences which he contributed towards the warres: and if they should chance to recouer the Isle of Rhodes, it should re∣turne* 1.1159 vnder the Dominion of the Knights of Saint Iohn of Ierusalem.

In this treaty there was no mention made of the King of England: The Vene∣tians neuer-the-lesse supposing that they might draw greate aide from that King, who was a Prince of exceeding great wealth and authority, and had in time before shewed great affection to their Common-wealth, went about by meanes of Ie∣ronimo Zuccate their Secretary, resident in his Court, to dispose him to fauour the league. But the King, disdayning the matter for that he had not beene particular∣ly* 1.1160 inuited to the treaty thereof, would by no meanes endure to heare of it, but [ 40] did greatly complaine: for that neither him-seife nor his Realme, had beene men∣tioned in the number of the Confederates. As for the French King, they did day∣ly pereeaue that he had no great desire to enter into it, because that they treated therein of encreasing the Emperors forces, and reputation, his coriuall, and per∣petuall enemy.

The Venetians then, the league being concluded and established (as hath bin said) commanded the Generall Capello, that if the Turkish fleete did come into the Gulphe hee should keepe aloofe towards the Leuant, that hee might with more ease passe into Sicily, where he was to ioyne with the Confederates fleetes, as well to assure those quarters, as to hurt the enemies, if occasion were offered. [ 50] And because they would not weaken their garrisons, they did on a sodaine leuy two thousand foote-men, whome they sent to the Army. Some were of opini∣on to referre to the Generalls discretion, in all causes, to doe that which he should iudge to be most proffitable and conuenient for the Common-wealth, according

to the occurrences of the affaires, and not to limit him what hee had to doe, which might peraduenture bee cleane contrary to reason, seeing that warre is managed by the sight of the eye: alledging for example that which happened the yeare before, by limiting the Generall Pesare what he should doe, which hath occasio∣ned sundry disorders, and at last the warre against the Turkes: yet neuerthelesse, the other opinion was followed, because they would not hinder nor delay the v∣nion of their Army with the Confederates.

Now the Senates greatest care, was to find ready money for the great expen∣ces* 1.1161 they were speedily to be at. By means wherof it was decreed, that all those who [ 10] would put in any money into the publicke Treasury, should haue an annuall rent for it of foureteene in the hundred: and they did afterwards proceed sharpely a∣gainst the debtors to the Common-wealth, as well by the imprisonment of their bodies as sale of their goods.

They did moreouer create three Pocurators of Saint Marke, Ieronimo Marcello, Bernardo Moro, and Iulio Contaren, in regard of some loane of money. As for the goods of the Clergie, they could neuer make any vse of them▪ for although the Pope had permitted the Senate to alienate of Church goods by reason of tenne in the hundred, to the worth of a million of gold, and afterwards calling back that fauour had giuen them leaue to raise the said somme vppon the reuenue of the [ 20] Clergy for the terme of fiue yeares, yet neuerthelesse, they could neuer draw a breefe from him either for the one or other, his Holynesse still finding new shifts and excuses.

In this great want of money the Senate went very slowly foreward in the pro∣positions that were made vnto them of raising the said somme, peraduenture for feare of displeasing many people, and cheefely those of the Champaine countrey of the firme land: wherupon it reiected a proposition which was made (although it would haue amounted to a great somme) to sell the medows of the communal∣ties, of which there are store ouer the whole state, in a manner, of the Republicke on the firme land. [ 30]

The Senate neuerthelesse in this great necessity did spare nothing that was ne∣cessary* 1.1162 for the warres. Peace at the same time was treated of betwixt the Empe∣ror and the French King, which each of them made shew greatly to desire, and they concluded to send their Agents for that purpose to Canus which lieth be∣twixt Perpign an and Narbona: but hauing spent all the time there in contestati∣ons, the assembly brake vp without any resolution, by reason of the distrust that the one had of the other, which did greatly greeue the Venetians, because that by those Princes discord, the warre against the Turkes would prooue more difficult, the likelihoods thereof being already discerned. For the Marquis of Guasto,* 1.1163 whom the Emperor had in the beginning appointed to serue in the enterprize of [ 40] the Leuant, was countermanded not to stirre forth of Italy, and speedily to aug∣ment the Garrisons in the State of Milan, so as all hope of agreement being ta∣ken away, the Emperor being constrained to diuert his forces elswhere, for feare of the French King, he did boldly affirme, that hee could at that time doe no other seruice to Christendome, then to stand vpon his owne defence against the* 1.1164 Turkes & for to assure his owne States from receiuing any hurt from their Army. The Pope beeing infinitely sorry that the enterprizes against the Turkes were not foreward, and it concerning him, as the head of Christendome to procure peace and vnion among Christian Princes, resolued, seeing that his letters and Am∣bassades had beene to no purpose, to attempt to preuaile by his presence, suppo∣sing that his authority and entreaties ioyned with reason, might cause them to [ 50] condiscend to some honorable agreement: whereupon hauing exhorted and in∣uited the Emperor and the French King thervnto, he requested them that they would meet at Nice, whither he likewise offered speedily to come, as to a place fitt for that purpose▪

The Venetians were very glad of this proposition, because that the desired effect of peace falling out successfully it would much augment the forces and hope of the League, the which with out that helpe would be very poore and weake: but on the other side they were very sorry for the losse of so much time, which was to be spent in the prouisions for warre, and in the vnion of the Armies: because they well perceiued that the Emperor comming from Barcelona by sea to Nice, Doria must needes bee imployed in that iourney, at such time as he should be bu∣sied in ordering the fleet, and sailing against the enemies, who were already with great forces vpon the Seas: on the other side they feared, that the same mee∣ting [ 10] would bee to no purpose by reason of the great difficulties to establish a perfect peace betwixt these two Princes, in regard of what had happened on either side: and that the cause which had mooued both of them to grant the pope this enterview, was but for to iustifie themselues, and to make a shew to all men, that they were desirous of peace, but that the meanes to obtaine it were hard: both* 1.1165 their iealozies beeing equally alike to purchase the Popes fauour, by allowing all his Councells and deseignes: for his Holinesse euer fearing to aduance the one of them more then the other, would not suffer any of them to grow more mighty by the forces and authorityes of the Sea Apostolicke, and especially in Italy.

Some likewise did thinke, that the Pope was not mooued to procure this en∣teruiew [ 20] only for the publick and vniuersall good, but for some particular profit of his owne, hoping by the meanes of his presence, and the meeting of these two Princes to insinuate himselfe into their fauor and to obtaine some matter of im∣portance for the establishment of the greatnesse of his owne house, as the effect* 1.1166 did afterwards manifest, hauing at that assembly concluded the marriage of the Lady Marguerite the Emperors naturall daughter, and widdow to Duke Alexan∣der of Medicis, with Octauio Farnes•…•… the Popes Nephew, whom the Emperor in∣uested with the State of Nauarre.

Notwithstanding that the Venetians were possessed with these doubts and sus∣pitions, the Senate neuerthelesse did not cease to doe the duty which the time re [ 30] quired, to testifie the honor and respect it did beare to those great Princes, and cheefely to the Pope, and to this end, to manifest how much it desired, according to their antient custome to ayde and fauour that accord, they chose two Ambas∣sadors,* 1.1167 Nicholao Tepulo and Marc Antonio Cornare, to be present at that assembly to make knowne the Senates good will, and withall, how greatly it desired peace betwixt Christian Princes, and also for to make warre vpon the Turkes.

Now the Pope departing from Rome in the moneth of Aprill according as it had beene determined, came to Parma, where he celebrated Palme-Sonday in the Cathedrall Church, staying in that Citty and at Placentia certaine dayes, ex∣pecting the Duke of Sauoyes resolution concerning the Citty of Nice where the [ 40] assembly was to be made, because some difficulties were made thereuppon, not without suspition that it came from the Emperor, who was desirous before his comming to the assembly to see what the Turkes progression would be. But the Pope at last resoluing not to make so long stay in his iourney, did set forewards* 1.1168 directly towards Nice, where at his arriuall, the entry into the Citty was denied him, the Gouernour thereof saying, that he held that place for the Prince, and that the Duke his father was not to dispose thereof, where vppon the Pope was enforced to retire him-selfe into a Monastery of Moncks beeing not farre from thence, whither within a while after the Citties keyes were brought vn∣to [ 50] him.* 1.1169

The Emperor and the French King came sodainly into those quarters, the one being lodged at Villafranca and the other at Villanoua beyond the Riuer Var. Yet the Pope could neuer procure them to meet in his presence, because they both

determined not to grant the Popes desire in that meeting, which was to make them good friends and to establish a firme peace betwixt them, yet neuer-the∣lesse he procured the prolongation of the truce, which was already confirmed, for the space of tenne yeares, hoping that in the meane space, the hatred, which was so deepely rooted in their hearts, might bee worne out; that beeing done, euery one went his owne way, the Pope towards Rome, the Emperor towards Barcelona, and the King iournied to Auignion, from thence to returne into France.

But the King being come to Auignion, was adnertized that the Emperor was desirous to confetre with him; and that for the same purpose hee entreated him [ 10] * 1.1170 to come to Aigues-mortes where he would land; which the King willingly graun∣ting, went thither, where both their maiesties did carsse each other, and the Em∣peror went and dined with the King in the towne, with great demonstration of brotherly friendship: Then the king wentinto the Emperors Gallie, where they had long conference to gether, where-vpon all men hoped shortly to see a firme peace established betwixt them, but no effectas thereof could euer since bee dis∣cerned: but on the contrary the Emperor perceiuing him-selfe to be assured, by the confirmation of the league with the Venetians against the Turkes, not alone to sustaine their attempts, beganne to make greater demands to the King, accor∣ping* 1.1171 to the treaty of Madrill, the King on the other side promising to him-selfe, [ 20] to recouer the States which hee detained from him, made great warlike pre∣parations to assaile him in sundry places, not tarrying for the expiration of the truce.

Now whilest Christian Princes stood vpon termes of making warre one vpon another, the Turke had in the winter time prepared all that which was necessary for his comming forth into the field, who like-wise remembring that which did belong to his owne religion (for those Barbarous people haue some impression of diuinity in their harts,) did before his departure celebrate with great solemni∣ty,* 1.1172 the feasts of Baieran, (those daies are celebrated and reuerenced by that nati∣on euen as Easter is by the Christians) hee caused prayers to bee made in all his [ 30] Mesquites for the happy successe of him-selfe and his army. Then in the moneth of March, his armies by sea and land departed from Constantinople, where Soli∣man was in person, and Barbarossa neere to him, who held the rancke and grade which Lufti had done not long before, who was depriued of his place of Bascha, and confined into Macedon: But the whole army being not yet well accommo∣dated, Barbarossa in the meane time, with sixe score sayle, went to wards the Ar∣chipelago,* 1.1173 as to an assured booty to assaile the Islands, the which beeing de∣fended the yeare before, had as then no Garrisons that were suffitient to make defence, whereby it came to passe that Schiros, Schiaroc, Schiati, with cer∣taine others of lesse fame being first sackt and spoyled fell into the power of the [ 40] Turkes.

There happened a memorable accident at the Taking of Schiati; for the Islan∣ders and those few soldiers that were within it, hauing constantly sustained the first assaults of the Turkes building vpon the assurance of the situation of the Castle, seated vpon an high place; some of the cheefe amongest them were desirous, either thorow feare or a premeditated malice, to yeeld them-selues vn∣to the Turkes, but fearing peraduenture to be punished for their basenesse and treachery, if the matter should not fall out according to their desire, did runne to the Pallace where Ieronimo Memio gouernor of the place lay hurt in his bed, who by his valor giuing example to his soldiers, had beaten the enemies from the wals, [ 50] whome they slew, by whose death all matters remayning in confusion among them they did by ropes draw the Turkes vp into the Castle. This cruell and Bar∣barous act did so highly displease Barbarossa, as insted of recompencing those vil∣lains,

he did by death chastice their infamous wickednesse. Then hauing encreased* 1.1174 his forces, hee sailed into Candy to get more booty there, or else to view the strong places of the Island.

The Senate vpon the report which was currant at Constantinople, how that the army should saile into Candy, had carefully prouided what-so-euer was nece∣ssary for the gard of the Island, against so mighty an enemy, by sending thither, mony, soldiers, munition & victuals, and Giouani Moro to command there, during the warre in quallity of Prouidator Generall, a man very well experienced and of great valour and discretion. The conseruation of that Island was thought to be of very great importance, as well for the Nobillity thereof, being descended [ 10] from a Venetian Colony, as for her richesse, as an ancient seate of Kings, as also for the frutfulnesse thereof, and other great commodities which those receiued from it that traded into the Leuant. This Prouidator was cheefely enioyned to exhort the Gentlemen and Knights, (for so are the feudataries of the Republicke termed who enioy the benefits thereof) to the defence of the Island, and to assure them that the Senate would neuer forsake them.

Now Moro being come into Candy, did assembly the Generall councell of all the Nobility of the Collony in the Citty of Candace, to dispose them by some honest exhortation constantly to attend the enemies comming.

If yee consider (said he) the quiet of your state, where at this present, yee doe [ 20] peaceably enioy so many goodly inheritances, so sweet an aire, such aboundance* 1.1175 and commodity of all things as grow here, or else are brought hither from the countries neere adioyning, I doe assure my selfe that this remembrance will be of greater force with you, then the efficacy of all my words can bee able to per∣swade you to doe all you can, and to be sparing neither in expences, trauaill, nor life itselfe, to keepe either your selues, or children, from changing your present condition, and to fall from the toppe of so great happinesse, into a Gulphe of mi∣sery and calamities, as it is like to happen, if this Island falling into the Turkes power (I tremble with feare onely to thinke thereof, and to tell you of it) yee should be enforced to goe and dwell else-where, to forsake your country, so great [ 30] wealth, and so many commodities as yee here possesse; or else tarrying here still, be subiect to the Tyranny of a faithlesse and Barbarous nation. An other thing besides your wealth doth oblige yee to defend this Island, one of the cheefe and most important members of our Common-wealth, which is, the loue and duty which you owe to our common country, from which I hope, the distance of place is not able to diuide you, beeing true members thereof, and not cut off from it, hauing a share in the honours, fauours, and in all other her for∣tunes. Now your particular interest being, for these respects, inseparably conioyned to ours, it behoueth mee to labour to let you see, the importance of the businesse in question, and to stirre yee vp to prouide those remedies which [ 40] may defend yee from such a danger. I will then onely entreate you, not for any feare what so-euer, to lose that courrage, and good resolution which I discerne in you all, least being disfurnished of valour, and strength, yee happen to vndoe your selues. I will not deny but that the enemies power is very great, and that wee ought not to contemne it; but I dare well assure you that it is not such as may cause yee to despaire of beeing able to resist it; but on the contrary wee are to hope, that their comming will purchace vs honor and reputation, by valliant∣repulsing them from the whole Island. We are certainly to beleeue, that although there bee great numbers of soldiers in the enemies Army; yet neuer-the-lesse [ 50] they haue no store of ordnance, or other necessary matters sufficient to batter and force townes, whereby wee are assuredly to thinke, that if they doe come to this Island, their intention is rather to spoile and get booties, if by our negligence wee will suffer them so to doe, then to tarry here and make warre. And though

they should come hither to that end, what-like-lihood is there that they will busie them-selues in a long and difficult enterprize, perceiuing so many mighty fleetes of the Christian Confederat Princes at sea, which may on a sudaine assaile and fight with, either their fleete, or some of their townes: for they are no lesse care∣full for the preseruation of their owne, then they are to offend and conquer other mens. I know, and am expressely commanded from the Senate to acquaint you with it, how highly aboue all other things it esteemeth the preseruation of this State, and your safety, for which, they are ready to expose all their forces, witnes the prouisions which of it owne proper motion, it hath speedily sent vnto you. You then, whome these dangers doe more neerely concerne, and for whom wee [ 10] are here assembled, are so much the more obliged not to omit any thing where∣in you may manifest your loyalty, dilligence, and loue, towards both the one and other country: Let euery man then dispose him selfe to succour the common cause with his wealth, authority, and person; I doe assure my selfe that in so doing, we shall not onely auoyde the greatest danger, but shall free the whole country, to your great glory and praise from the enemies spoiles and incursions.

The Prouidator had skarce made an end of his exhortation, when all of them* 1.1176 arose, applauding his speech, and promising with great offers, to employ all their power, care and dilligence in the defence of the Island: Hee did afterwards make the same remonstrance to the people of Candy, exhorting them to their owne [ 20] defence: wherevpon all of them beganne with great speed to prouide things ne∣cessary, to arme certaine Gallies, and to assemble the country people, vnto whom hauing giuen Armes, they placed part of them in Candall, to encrease the gar∣rison* 1.1177 of Italian foote men, and the rest were sent to the gard of sundry passages and places of importance to stoppe the enemies progression. The Gentlemen of the Island and the feudataries of the Common-wealth, did proceed therein with such earnestnesse and courrage, as the family alone of Calergians, which is one of the cheefe and ritchest of the country, did raise more then fiue and twenty thou∣sand armed men. [ 30]

Barbarossa pursuing his iourny came neere to the Island on the North side, be∣twixt Standia and the Citty of Candace, and without casting ankor ranne along the Island as farre as Rettima, where making but a short stay, because that the* 1.1178 Citties ordnance did greatly hurt him, he sailed to La Suda, hauing there found better abiding then in any other place, by reason of the Hauen which is great and safe, whose entrance was then open to him, it being not fortified as it is now at this day, hee landed great numbers of his people to scoure and spoyle the Country.

This Citty was in old time called Cidonia, and reckoned among the cheefe of the Island. Andre Gritti was Gouernor thereof, hauing with him about a thou∣sand [ 40] Italian foote-men, and diuers Greekes of the citty and places neere adioy∣ning. These men perceiuing the Turkes to approch in disorder, who had not in∣trenched them-selues, did boldly sally forth of the Citty and assailled them, who being first beaten with the Citties ordnance, whereof it was well prouided, and being found in disorder, they chaced, and slew a great number of them: Those which scoured the country had no better fortune, by reason that great multituds of the Islanders arising who were diuesly armed by their Lords commandement, went and incountered the Turkes which were loden with spoile, whome they fell vpon and slew many of them; so as they enforced them to giue ouer their enter∣prize, and to retire with speed to their Gallies.

Barbarossa hoping for better and more fortunate successe in another place, [ 50] or at least to recompence that losse, leauing behind him neuerthelesse some me∣moriall of his being there, to the peasants detriment, sent an hundred Gallies to Sithi•…•….

This place is seated in another corner of the Iland on the west side, beeing weake and ill prouided of defense notwithstanding that a particular magistrate sent from Venice doth vsually make his abode there. From thence the enemy might easily passe into the Ile of Scarpenta, possessed at that time by the Turkes and distant from thence some forty miles.

The enemy finding that place to bee abandoned, tooke away certaine pee∣ces* 1.1179 of ordinance and other munitions, spoiling all the Champaigne neere adioyning. But fearing least the Venetian Fleet comming to the ayde of Candy would enforce them to come to strokes, the Soldiers being speedily imbarked and all the Gallies beeing vnited togeather, they sailed towardes [ 10] Negrepont,

The Sangiach of Morea did at the same time by Solimans command beseege* 1.1180 Naples and Maluesia. He hauing encamped before those two townes, wrote to the Gouernors and people thereof that they should speedily yeeld, promising to them great rewards in so doing, and on the contrary, seuere punishment, if they should continew to make resistance: that Soliman had sent him thither comman∣ding him by no meanes to stirre from thence vntill he had reduced both of them vnder his obedience: that their succors were sarre off, and their hope vaine, long to hold out, and therefore that it was best for them to fitte themselues to the time and to the fortune of the van quisher. [ 20]

The Gouernours and all the people, resoluing brauely to defend them-selues, as* 1.1181 well by reason of the situation of the place as for their hope that the Venetian Army would shortly releeue them with victualls and necessary munitions; made none answer to his letter, but betooke themselues more carefully to the Guard of their townes.

And because they in Naples wanted water, the horssemen that were Stadiots a hardy and warlike nation, making diuers sallies, beeing followed by the Italian Harquebuziers did prouide for that want. The Generall Capello hauing in∣telligence of this sieege, and beeing very desirous to releeue those valliant and [ 30] trusty defendants, did opportunely with six Gallies send them supplies of whatso∣euer they needed.

But during these exploits those of Dalmatia were in like manner greatly aflic∣ted* 1.1182 by the Turkish Army, who entring into the Countrey made an horrible spoile there, carrying away, men, woemen, little children, and all sortes of cattell, bur∣ning the houses, and putting the whole Contrey in feare and confusion: so as Camillo Vrsino, Gouernour of the Prouince, had thought to haue abandoned all the other Citties, and that the Soldiers should retire to Zara to assure it, as the chiefest and easiest to guard, fearing that to attempt to preserue al of them against such great nombers of enemies, would bee a cause to expose them all to great dangers. [ 40]

The Senate did not allow of this opinion, esteeming much more, besides the losse of so many Citties, this note of infamy, to haue at once without any fight giuen place vnto the enemies insolency, and abandoned so goodly a Countrey: wherefore, vsing all meanes to preserue and defend it, it determi∣ned to make a new leuy of horse and foote, to weet, twelue thousand foot∣men and fifteene hundred horse, hoping with these forces to bee able suffi∣ciently to assure the Prouince: and also to encrease the Peoples affection to∣wards* 1.1183 the Common-wealth, and to encourage them brauely to defend them∣selues, they appoynted fifteene Gentlemen who should speedily be transported thither for the guard of Zara, S•…•…enic and Catarra, with thirty men a peece▪ [ 50] moreouer Lodouico Badoario was sent vnto Zara, in quality of Prouidator General of Dalmatia, with commandement neuerthelesse, not to goe forth of that Citty without the Senates permission aud leaue: the Inhabitants like-wise of

Dalmatia were permitted to send their wiues and children to Venice for feare of the enemies.

In these occurrences, the Prince shewed the Senate, how that euery man was to helpe his country in a time so miserable, and alledged vnto them for exam∣ple that which had beene performed and done in the last warres of the firme land, in which (said he) the Cittizens loue towards their country, the vnion and readinesse of their helpe, had beene of so great force, as in dispight of bad fortune, they had drawne the Republike forth of so many calamities, and had restored it to her fauour, splendor and dignity, wherein, (God be thanked) it now continued. That the dangers present, were no lesse then those that were past, hauing to doe [ 10] with an enemy, who though hee be alone and of him-selfe, is neuer-the-lesse very mighty, and to be feared, whome if they did not speedily resist, but suffer all things to fall out according to his desire, his ouerweening would in such sort encrease, as they were neuer to looke for any safety from him: that their hope of forraine aide, did dayly more and more vanish, the Confederates, proceeding with such vncertenty, and slownesse, as they were to expect nothing from them: That their true, safest and onely defence, depended vpon them-selues. It did then behooue euery man to finde meanes to surmount his forces, and speedily to releeue the Common-wealth with councell, meanes, yea and with his owne life: That the publike Treasury would shrinke vnder an insupportable burthen, vnlesse it were [ 20] speedily releeued by the Cittizens; in regard that the expence alone of Dalma∣tia with the new prouisions thereof, did monethly mount to more then fiue and twenty thousand crownes: that it behooued them to glad the people who were ouer pressed with sorrow, and amazed, and to comfort them by the presence of those, vnto whome the conseruation of the state did belong, to shew that they were desirous to be sharers in the dangers, and troubles, which should be offered. Let those then (quoth hee) who were appointed depart with speed, and goe to execute that which is commanded them, and let others, vnto whome some pub∣like charge shallbe commited, freely accept thereof: He that is moued therevnto by his duty, encreaseth his owne glory, and he that maketh none account thereof, [ 30] let obedience moue him; if nothing else can prouoke you, yet at least wise let ne∣cessity and the present dangers, make yee difcreet, dilligent and ready in all things.

The Princes authority, and the force of his reasons, did confirme diuers, who would haue freed them-selues from taking any publicke charge vpon them.

The Turkes in the meane time, the more that they vnder-stood the great pre∣parations which were made to preuent them in Dalmatia, the more they made* 1.1184 hast to come and assaile it: And for their better weakening of the Venetians de∣fences, they resolued at one time to assaile all the Principall townes, to the end that the one might not helpe the other: And hauing assembled great forces at Cluin, a towne vnder their obedience, they entred with foure thousand horse [ 40] and as many foote, vpon the Territory of Zara, and beseeged Nadin the Veneti∣ans* 1.1185 cheefe Castle, seated vpon those confines, Sebastiano Sagreda being Gouer∣nor thereof, who had an hundred and fifty Italian foote-men with him, vnto whome the onely sight of the enemies gaue such feare and terror, as they basely yeelded on condition to haue their liues saued, without making any proofe of their valour, or vse of the places situation, and retired to Zara, whether they brought more feare then comfort, by exalting the enemies forces to couer their owne shame.

The like befell the Castle of Laurana which was commanded by Vittore So∣rance with like number of soldiers as in Nadin, who hauing for one whole day sus∣tayned [ 50] * 1.1186 the battery, fled away and was taken by the enemies: but Zemo•…•… being abandoned by the I•…•…alian footmen, was garded and defended by certaine Sclauo∣nians, whome some Venetian gentlemen of the family of the Venieri, vnto whom it did belong, had placed there.

The Turkes hauing put Garrisons in Nadin and Laurana, went vp and downe scouring the country euen to the gates of Zara, so as none durst come abroad al∣though the enemies campe lay farre off. The Cities of Antiuare, Dulcina, and Sebenic, were in the same trouble. The Sangiach of Scutari went with great for∣ces of foot and horse to Antiuare, and did encampe betwixt the sea shore and the walles, and had sent part of his forces to beseege Dulcina.* 1.1187

But Bondulmiero, captaine of the Gulphe, hauing notice thereof did speedily releeue the Antiuarians, the like did the Generall Capello within a while after, by sending them souldiers and munition, so as the Basha despayring of any speedy or happy successe in his enterprize, determined to raise his seege from before An∣tiuare, [ 10] causing those who at the same time lay before Dulcina to doe the like.

As for Sebenic, part of the forces that were assembled at Cluin, went thither at the first, and after the taking of Nadin and Laurana, many soldiers did goe thither, who neuer came neere the city, because their number was not comparable to a* 1.1188 true army, but went scattering vp and downe, and spoiled the country. The Sibens∣sans hauing intelligence of the enemies comming, resoluing brauely to defend and keepe the towne for the Venetians, did assemble themselues together in the market-place, where they all swore a sollemne oth that they would not yeeld to the enemy, but endure all extremity rather then falsifie their faith. But the Turkes being not able to execute their deseignes vpon the other townes so easily as they [ 20] supposed, would not likewise medle with this, hauing before bent their thoughts* 1.1189 vpon Hungary: wherevpon so soone as they had reduced all their forces toge∣ther, and made vp the body of an army, leauing three thousand men for the gard of the frontiers, they marched towards Bossina, from thence to passe into Hungary. The Turkes departure forth of the confines of Dalmatia did greatly ease the Ve∣netians, and freed that poore people from much calamity. But as the alteration of affaires doe easily alter mens deseignes, the gouernors and captaines of that Prouince, who did badly digest the wrongs which they had susteined by the ene∣mies, and most of all because an infamous imputation was laied vpon them for the losse of certaine townes, and for suffering them without resistance to scoure and [ 30] spoile the country, made a proposition (being desirous to make vse of the occa∣sion* 1.1190 which did offer it selfe by reason that the enemies campe was farre off) to at∣tempt the recouery of those townes which the Turkes did possesse; wherewith ac∣quainting the Councell of Tenne, they did affirme that the forces which were in Dalmatia, were sufficient for the execution of that enterprize: As also, because that if the castles nere to Zara were not recouered, the city would be still in feare, hauing such mighty enemies to their neere neighbours who not stirring forth of their Garrisons, did hold it in a manner beseeged.

These propositions were enterteined in the Senate with great attention, where the desire to be reuenged on the enemies caused the more credit to be giuen vnto [ 40] them: next, the Duke of Vrbins perswations, vnto whom the whole matter was imparted, did augment their hope, who did not only commend that proposition, as a matter of great importance, but affirmed, that by adding fiue thousand Lans∣quenets* 1.1191 to those Italians that were in Dalmatia, and certaine numbers of Italian horse to the Greekes and Stradiots, it would be an easie matter with those forces to enter into Bossina, and seize vpon some good towne, which might open them away to greater conquests. That it was better and more profitable to make war in their enemies country then in their owne, and that there were but three thou∣sand horse in garrison at Bossina.

This aduise carried with it a goodly shew, and a certaine valour attended by [ 50] profit: wherevpon they concluded speedily to raise the Lansequenets, and to this end Constantino Ca•…•…zza, Secretary to the Councell of the Preguais, was sent into Bauaria, who by meanes of Duke Lewis, a great friend to the Common-wealth, did in a short time performe that he was enioyned, so as those souldiers hauing

receiued their first payment, marched forthwith into Friull. Camillo Vrsino ha∣uing in the meane time assembled forth of the garrisons of Dalmatia foure thou∣sand foot and fiue hundred horse, and taken with him some peeces of ordnance, went and beseeged Obrouazza.

The taking of that towne was of importance, it being a place of retreate for the Turkes, where they were wont to assemble themselues to enuade the Ve∣netians confines. The castle was neither strong nor well manned, whereby the enterprize was thought to be as easie as profitable. The castle then, hauing* 1.1192 beene battered two daies one after an other, the third day the souldiers went to the assault, where after some small resistance, they entred by the ruines of [ 10] the wall.

Vrsino being Master of the place, perceiuing that he could not fortifie it but with great difficulty, nor afterwards keepe it, but with much trouble, comman∣ded it to be razed downe to the foundations. But the Turkes being aduertized thereof, came backe on a sodaine and found the Venetians ruining off the ca∣stle, who being possessed with feare and terror by the Turkes vnlooked for arri∣uall, did forsake their worke and retired in disorder towards their ships, be∣ing* 1.1193 followed at the heeles by the Turkes, who in the end would haue broken and defeated them had not captaine Camillo de Monte the Neapolitan with certaine troupes made head against them, whilest the souldiers were imbarked. [ 20]

As these deseignes had at first encreased mens courages and hopes, euen so, the condition of the affaires altering in a short time, there was no more speech of the other enterprizes of Nadin, Laurana, Clissa, and Ostrouizza, greater diffi∣culties being dayly discouered concerning them, those likewise who had shew∣ed most heate and forwardnesse towards the Turkish enterprizes, beganne by the same accident to grow could, and especially the Duke of Vrbin; who had propounded it, did alleadge diuers impediments, saying that the number of souldiers which he had first craued was not sufficient to enuade those places, and* 1.1194 withall to keepe the passages against the enemies, and that a great number would need so great a quantity of victuals and other prouisions as it would be an hard [ 30] matter to send them thither, by reason that they were to passe thorow the ene∣mies country. In these perplexities of minde what was best to be done, opinions were very different, some supposing that their forces being ready, they were to be imployed for the releefe of the people, who by that meanes might hope for some better fortune, and not to keepe them idle: others on the contrary hauing ma∣turely considered the matter, were of opinion to dismisse the Lansquenets, by gi∣uing halfe-pay to the souldiers, and great gifts to the captaines to keepe them stil their friends when need should be, and not to passe on any farther against the enemies, for feare least by prouoking them, they might draw vpon themselues the whole Turkish forces, to the entire ruine and losse of Dalmatia, seeing it was more [ 40] * 1.1195 expedient to quench that fire then to kindle it, in regard that all forraine aide did deceiue them. These reasons were allowed of, and the Lansquenets were sent home into their country.

The Turkes after this exploit returned into Hungary hauing first refreshed their Garrisons, which remayning quiet the country was for a time at rest.

All men were in the meane time very desirous to see what would become of those naual armies: Barbarossa departing from Candy retired towards the confines of Negrepont not attempting any thing, for feare of meeting with the Christian armies. The Generall Capello hauing great number of gallies, one gallion, and di∣uers ships of war, the Patriarke Grimani being ioyned with him with the Popes [ 50] * 1.1196 gallies, did waite for the Spanish nauall army which was reported euery day to ar∣riue, but none effect thereof was to be seene, consuming to the great griefe of all men the fittest time and season for Marine actions.

The Emperor did promise, speedily to send the 30. Neapolitan gallies which lay

at Messina, to Corfou, and fifteene ships of warre with three thousand Spanish foot-men conducted by Don Ferrant de Gonzaga, Lieutenant for the King in Si∣cily, who (because the Duke of Vrbin by reason of his indisposition could not come to the army) was to supply his place: he promised moreouer, that so soone as he should come to Barcelona, he would forthwith send away Doria with two and thirty gallies, to saile to Corfou to ioyne with the other army.* 1.1197

Diuers things neuerthelesse caused men to doubt that it would not so come to passe: first, because that the Emperor before his going to Nice, had of•…•…en said, that it was impossible for him at one time to assaile the Turkes and the French, and the assembly of Nice being broken off without any effect, by reason of the [ 10] French, there was no great hope in his forces. Next, his officers at Naples did not only hinder those captaines whom Camillo Vrsino had sent to leauy souldiers in the Kingdome for the defense of Dalmatia, but vnder seigned excuses refused (contrary to the treaty of the league) the Generall Capello a certaine quantity of corne for the entertainment of the army. Diuers others deeds and words gaue iust occasion of suspition, that the Emperor sought nothing else but to let time ship away vnprofitably, not being willing, or else able, to make warre vpon the Turke as he should, hindring on the other side as much as he could, the Veneti∣ans* 1.1198 from agreeing with them, for feare least the whole burthen of the war should light alone vpon himselfe. [ 20]

The Emperor in the end seeking new meanes of assuring himselfe, propoun∣ded to the Venetians the renuing of the capitulations of the league, the which al∣though it was a superfluous matter, in regard of the short time since the agree∣ment was made at Rome, they did neuerthelesse satisfie him therein, because they would not omit any thing which might serue for the vnion of the armies to let all men know their great desire to pursue the warre.

The Capitulations being confirmed, the Emperor commanded Gonzaga, who was not yet gon, to saile to Corfou, where he arriued with the Gallies only, ha∣uing left their ships behind to the end (said he) that the residue of the foot forces* 1.1199 which were not yet come thither might haue shipping. But his so much desired [ 30] comming, was to no great purpose, because that the Generalls to the Venetians and the Pope, hauing made a motion to goe from thence and to scoure towards the Leuant, he would not consent therevnto, saying, that it was no safe matter for the Confederates, nor very honourable for the Emperour to execute any en∣terprize with so few forces, wherevpon he was desirous to tarry till the arriuall of the ships, which he knew could not much linger.

The armies remayning in this manner at Corfou, the Patriarke Grimani being* 1.1200 impatient of so long stay there, without doing any thing, departed thence with sixe and thirty gallies, and sailed toward Saint Nicolao de Ciuita, and hauing in∣telligence by the way, that the castle of Preuese was not very well garded, he re∣solued [ 40] not to let slip such an occasion, but to assaile it on the sodaine, the place being an assured retreate for the Turkes, when they did meane to enuade Chri∣stendome: the Patriarke going on in this resolution to assaile it, hoping to take it by some vnlooked for assault, and being come to the Channel of Preuese, the gal∣ley of Paul Iustinian did shew the way to the rest, where all of them being entred, he landed his souldiers and artillery in the plaine field a mile of from the castle, and because the greatest hope of the happy successe consisted in speed and dilli∣gence, without spending time in making trenches and rampiers, he beganne so∣dainely to batter the castle-walles with the artillery, himselfe being come on shoare to hasten the businesse, and to continue the battery without intermission. [ 50] But they had scarce begunne the battery when on a sodaine, people from al places round about come running into the field where the Venetians lay, and the num∣ber of them hourely increasing, grew so great, as our men being lodged in the same field without trenches or rampiers, were affraide least the enemies cauallery

should come and ouer-run them, wherevpon they resolued on a sodaine to re-em∣barke* 1.1201 the souldiers and the ordnance, and without any farther attempt to returne to Corfou.

Grimani his valor and speed was highly praised by some, and condemned by o∣thers, who said, that he should haue vsed more mature deliberation, and not rash∣ly to haue exposed himselfe to so great a danger, his iourney neuerthelesse was to purpose, for the viewing of the sytuation of the place, and for what-soeuer should belong to such an enterprise, and was the cause that within a while after, an occa∣sion of a goodly victory was offered, if the Venetians had knowne better how to haue vsed it: because that Barbarossa hauing intelligence that the Patriarke had [ 10] entred the Gulphe of Larta, did forthwith saile thither with all the army, hoping to find him there still and to ouerthrow him.

Now newes being brought to Corfou which way Barbarossa directed his course, and that he had tarried at Preuese, the captaines opinions were very diffe∣rent concerning that which was to bee done. Some said it was best to send to Messina; whither Doria was come from Spaine, for tó hasten his comming to Corfoù: others, that it was not good to depart from Corfou, but there to expect him, because he did meane to come thither shortly, it being neither for the profit nor safety of the Common-wealth, to abandon the castle of Corfou and the gard of the whole Gulphe. [ 20]

Doria at the last came to Corfou vpon the seuenth day of September, but not* 1.1202 with all the gallies, for he had some of them in Spaine for the gard of those seas a∣gainst Pirats, and other some were gon into Affrick to the aide of Thunis and Go∣letta, there being some suspition that the Moores & Turks of those quarters would raise some tumults. At his arriual they began a new to consult on that which was* 1.1203 to be done, where by the General consent of all men they resolued to goe to Pre∣uese to fight with the enemies. The meaning of our men was, so soone as they should come thither, to land the troupes, and to vse al meanes to become Masters of the castle, & to build a fort right ouer against it, to keepe the entry of the Gulph [ 30] open, that it might be in their owne power to take what resolution they pleased, ei∣ther to enter into it to fight with the enemies army, or to stop the going forth thereof, and to defeate it of it selfe. There were in the leagues nauall army a hun∣dred and six and thirty gallies, two gallions, and thirty armed ships. These vessels were diuided into fiue battaillions▪ in the first were all the great ships placed, vn∣der the command of Francisco Doria, and in the other foure, all the light vessels di∣uided in this maner: The Patriarke Grimani sailed formost, and the General Capello last of all, and in the middest, were Doria and Gonzaga. The whole fleet staied a* 1.1204 while at the Gomenizzes, tarrying for the Emperors other ships, but they making no haste to come, and the Generals hauing a prosperous winde, sailed towards [ 40] Saint Maure.

The Turkes hauing notice that the Christian army, which departed from Cor∣fou, did saile directly towards them, were greatly amazed, as those who thought* 1.1205 themselues safe enough in that hauen, and could not thinke that those armies would so soone haue beene vnited together, or that being vnited, they would haue resolued to seeke them out to sight with them: wherevpon, wondering at their so∣dainnesse, they were in great doubt what they were best to doe: some thought it a goodly matter, for that after they had scoured the seas all the sommer, and great∣ly endammaged the Venetians, they had retired themselues without any losse in∣to the Streight of Gallipolis, being able (as they said) by drawing the warre out in length, to consume the Venetians, and to separate the intelligence and forces of [ 50] * 1.1206 the Confederates, and by that meanes, purchase to themselues a more assured victory: wherevpon they councelled Barbarossa not to stirre forth of the Hauen, where they might liue safely, by reason of the castle, and the Streight of the Chan∣nell, with commodious aboundance of all things: others with a barbarous

insolency not being able to endure that the Christians who were wont to fly from them, should now shut them vp into an hauen, made a motion presently to goe forth with the whole army to fight with them, saying, that to continue so shut vp, besides the great infamy that would redound vnto them thereby, it would not purchase them any safety, by reason that they might be kept in longer then they thought, and thereby be depriued of all commodities: How that Soliman would vndoubtedly commend that valliant and generous councell, rather then to endure that his enemies should come and defie his army in his owne hauens and vnder his owne fortes, to the contempt of the reputation of his forces and happy fortune, and of the Ottoman Empire. [ 10] * 1.1207

Barbarossa was a man valliant and couragious, and accustomed to the hazards of fortune, who had often fauored him, he knew likewise how that diuers of the great Turkes Porte did enuy his greatnesse, and that the retreat from Corfou and the infortunate issue of that enterprize, whereof he had beene the chiefe author, had caused them to vse sinister speeches of him, whereby he feared the diminuti∣on of his credit, and the losing of the great Turkes grace and fauor: besides, he had some hope, that the captaines of the Christian army, notwithstanding that they were nere them, were not fully resolued to fight: and that which confirmed him in that opinion, was the treaties of agreement which Doria had already practized with him. [ 20]

These things made him resolue to goe forth with the army, and promised him* 1.1208 great reputation for such an exploit. He had in his fleet, a hundred and fifty vessels which vsed the oare, and a certaine number for faile, wherein were comprehen∣ded, diuers Galeots, Fusts, and other smaller vessels. Resoluing then to goe forth and to shew himselfe to the Christian army, not to seeke, nor refuse the battaile, but as a politike and well aduised captaine, to vse meanes to discouer the enemies* 1.1209 behauior and deseignes, he would before his going forth with the whole fleet send forth fifty of his gallies, to sound the meaning of the Captaines of the league, and to discerne whether their intention was to fight, and in what order they did set forward. [ 30]

The Confederates nauall army did at the the same time saile towards Saint Maure; but those in the tops hauing discouered the enemies that were come forth, aduertized the captaines, who altered their course, sayling against them to∣wards the entrance of the Gulphe of Larta, from whence they came: wherevpon by altering their course the order of the fleet was likewise changed, so as the Ge∣nerall Capello was in the vauntgard, who from as farre as he could descry the Turks vessels causing those of his battaillon to double the bankes of Rowers, did speedi∣ly* 1.1210 set forward against the enemies and by discharging diuers Canons vpon them, enforced them to returne from whence they came, the which they did speedily (being come forth only to discouer and not to fight) as they fell into some dis∣order, [ 40] whilest euery one of the gallies striued which should enter first to free themselues from danger, which neuerthelesse grew greater by their fight, by rea∣son that by turning their gallies, their poopes lay open to the ordnance shot, be∣ing neither able to defend themselues, nor to be releeued by their fellowes, who kept the mouth and entrance of the Gulphe closely shut vp.

Doria who sailed in the battaile, so soone as he perceiued it, did set forward, all men supposing that he did it to keepe the enemies from entring into the mouth of the Hauen, who being beaten both in poope and flanke, could not choose but bee vanquished or sunke: But so soone as hee came nere to them, he sent commandement thorow the whole fleet (no man knowing the cause why) that [ 50] vpon paine of punishment, all his gallies should forthwith retire, and being ioy∣ned* 1.1211 altogether should saile to the Ducall Cape in the Island of Saint Maur, to the great astonishment and griefe of all men, wherevpon, men did boldly and openly thorough the whole army vse reproachfull speeches against him, for that by his

meanes they had lost the commodity of ouer-throwing a great part of the ene∣mies fleet without the losse of one only man.

Being come to that place the chiefe of the army beganne a new to consult on∣what were best to be done: some were of opinion to send part of their gallies to assaile the castle of Lepanto, affirming that Barbarossa would neither himselfe come forth nor yet suffer his gallies to leaue the Gulphe without vrgent necessi∣ty: and if he should come forth, it would be in their owne power to take what ad∣uantage they pleased to giue battaile; others thought it fit to returne speedily to Preuese, because that the Turkish army not stirring forth of his place, they might assaile the castle, and if it did come forth they would be enforced to come to bat∣taile [ 10] to their disaduantage, and be assailed before they could put themselues into order of battaile.

This opinion was allowed, as being thought fi•…•…rest for the honour of our ar∣my, and for the assurance of breaking that of the enemies: and thereupon the army of the league, departing from Saint Maur on the eight and twentith of Sep∣tember, sailed forward in the same order as at the first. But the winde hauing failed them by the way, which till then had euer fauoured them, they were enfor∣ced because they would not separate the gallies from the ships to tow them with great discommodity and delay, by meanes whereof the Turkes had time to come* 1.1212 forth of the Gulphe, and to order themselues in battaile as they desired, contrary [ 20] to the opinion of the confederates: so as the army of the league descried that of the enemies in battaile, before it could come to the mouth of the Gulphe, the which came sailing with a faire winde vp to ours.

We haue now (said Doria) caused the enemy to dislodge according to our desire, it is now in our power to fight, but certainely it behooueth vs well to con∣sider of it: it is a matter of very great importance, and repentance afterwards will be in vaine. We are to consider, that by giuing battaile, we commit to* 1.1213 the hazard of a short time not onely this army, but likewise the whole reputation of the Confederate Princes, and if I may so say, the wealth and safety of all Chri∣stendome; [ 30] because that these forces being Iost, where are the meanes to set forth an other fleet to oppose the enemies to stop the course of their victory? What hope is there of being able to defend and preserue the sea townes, without forces at sea? Then turning himselfe towards the Venetian Generall, he added, that it was his part, whom it most of all concerned, to consider those things, because that the danger which threatned the State and liberty of his Common-wealth was greatest of all other.

Capello made answer, that the Senate had commanded him to fight with the ene∣my when occasion should be offered, and that at the same time so faire an one be∣ing* 1.1214 presented, he was to obey that commandement, and to beseech God that the [ 40] iustice of their cause might be accompanied with a fortunate successe to the ser∣uice of all Christendome, and their owne particular commendation, and that his desire was to be placed in the most dangerous part of the battaile which he would willingly accept. The Patriarke Grimani seemed to be of the same minde, notwith∣standing that in the beginning he had councelled them to goe to Lepanto.

Doria perceiuing that all men consented to a battaile, Be it so the•…•… (quoth he) and I beseech God to fauor our enterprise, and in so saying, he did speedily cause the bat∣tails banner to be erected, and gaue order for whatsoeuer was necessary, saying that with his owne battaillon he would be the first that should charge the ene∣my: All men were ioyfull when they vnderstood this resolution, for the great hope they had of victory, and in regard of the smal forces that were in the enemies ar∣my, [ 50] * 1.1215 wherevpon they imagined that they would not haue the courage to attend them, but that they made that shew only in brauery. The captaines in the meane time did exhort the souldiers to fight valiantly, setting before their eyes the great∣nesse and facility of the victory, the rich spoiles, and the immortal glory prepared

for the vanquisher. Doria would needs saile formost with his galleys, placing Ca∣pel in the battaile, and Grimani in the rereward, to succour with his battaillon those parts which he should perceiue to haue most need, he commanded Antoni•…•… Doria who conducted the great vessels, that keeping before the light galleys, hee should vse meanes to get the winde of the enemies, that he might with more ease runne vpon them, and with his ordnance disorder them, before they should come too neere the light galleys. But the Turkes on the other side, seeking the same ad∣uantage,* 1.1216 vsed all meanes they could to get before the Christian Army, that they might first assaile it; which Doria perceiuing, did in time draw his army towards the land, to keepe the enemies from possessing those quarters. Then vpon the so∣daine, [ 10] there beeing no winde at all, it was an hard matter to pursue that desiegne, in regard that the light Galleys were with many turnings enforced to towe the great ships: yet neuerthelesse, all men were so earnest to the battaile, that by their industry this impediment was taken away, and the two great ships, namely the Argozy and the Gallion, were placed at the head of the Army like two strong Towers, to breake the enemies first assaults.

So soone as Barbarossa perceiued those two great ships comming against his Armie before the calme, fearing least hee should bee first enforced to fight with them, hauing auoided it as much as hee could, began to repent his comming forth* 1.1217 of the Gulphe of Preueze: Yet neuerthelesse taking presently courage, hee did [ 20] euery where play the part of a good Captaine, thinking on nothing more then on fight, seeking all aduantages that the condition of the time and place would affoord him, and chiefly hee sought to bend his course towards the cape of the Is∣land of Saint Maur: wherevpon auoiding at the same time the meeting with those two great vessels, hee did vse meanes by turning to the other side, to charge oue Army on their backs, the which being desirous to keepe the great vessels vnited to the light ones, could not but with great difficulty & disorder mooue and chang their place; and therefore he did solicite his soldiers, both by promiscs and threats not to be discouraged; and to speake truth, he did that day do whatsoener belon∣ged to a discreet and va•…•…ant Captaine. He had diuided his Army into three parts, [ 30] the right wing was gouerned by Trabacchio, the left by Salecca, both of them vali∣ant Captaines, and renowned for their great experience, and Barbarossa was in* 1.1218 the middest with the body of the battaile. Dragut a famous Pirat, went before the whole army, with great numbers of Fusts, Gal•…•…ots, and some light Galleys, as it were to lead the way to the rest, and with those lighter vessels to begin the skir∣mish. The long delay and irresolution of our men, or the speed and good for∣tune of the enemies, the sea beeing calme, so that the great vessels could doe no seruice for want of winde, did giue the Turkes time and leisure first to possesse that part neere to the firme land, which the Captaines of the league had determined to seaze on, and to driue the enemies from it, who lying in a very commodious [ 40] place, and a great way off from our vessels, lay in front of the Christian Army to descrie how it would make vp towards them, supposing themselues to be foorth of danger, by reason that they perceiued that the Captaines of the league were determined to giue battaile without those great vessels, and that it was dangerous to tow them any further on in the view of the enemies; so as it seemed that it was in their power either to giue battaile or not.

Doria in the meane time beeing followed by all the light Galleys, turning to∣wards* 1.1219 those great vessels, had for a time not onely held our men, but the enemies in doubt what he would doe, all men expecting when he would turne the prows vpon the enemy, and begin the fight. But during this long delay, he gaue time to the Turkes to get the vantage, and to eschew the battaile. Dorias pollicy was (as he said afterwards) to beguile the enemies, who beeing vncertaine what course* 1.1220 he would hold, thought it best to lie at sea in the same place, and close order which they held: whereby it had beene an easie matter for him, by fetching a great

compasse, to haue assailed them with his Galleys in sundry places. But Barbarossa perceiuing his intent, did with great speed (as hath beene said) make to land-ward, keeping still, as he sailed along, the prows of his Galleys turned towards our Ar∣my, keeping as farre off as he could from our great vessels.

The Army of the league in the meane time, to all mens wonder, stood immoue∣able to behold the enemies insulting, and the faire occasion which it lost; the Ge∣nerall Capell, and Grimani, began to cry out with a lowd voyce, that they were no longer to loose time, nor the certain hope of so goodly a victory. Capel, presently after, leapt into a Frigat, and was carried round about the fleet, stirring vp all men to battaile, beeing reciprocally welcomed and commended of all men, and being [ 10] * 1.1221 come to Dorias Galley, he said vnto him, Let vs goe my Lord to charge the énemies that flye from vs; time, occasion, and the soldiers cryes doe call vs forth, the victory is ours, I will bee the first that shall charge, and I tarry for nothing but the commande∣ment to begin the fight.

Capell was a man of three score and thirteene yeares of age, of a cheerfull coun∣tenance,* 1.1222 healthfull constitution, singular iudgement, and was reuerenced of all men for his age and great discretion, ioyned with a singular experience in marine matters, so as great estimation was made of his aduice and councell; and indeed all men were desirous of battaile, and did ioyntly cry out, battaile, battaile, victory, victory. Doria at the last beeing mooued by these cryes, and spurd forward by [ 20] shame, commanded the rest to •…•…et forward, and himself with his battalion did passe on beyond the great ships, our army came neerer to the enemies Galleys, who were already come to the place they wisht for, their poopes beeing towards the land, and their prows to sea-ward: wherevpon, from both parts (though a farre off) the Cannon plaid, so as a man would haue thought that the battaile had bin* 1.1223 begun, and yet neither on the one side nor other, did the Galleys set forward. Doria did still looke when that the Turkes, all amazed, would forsake the Galleys without fight, and saue themselues on shoare, and Barbarossa perceiuing the light Galleys to bee backt by the Gallion and the Argozey, durst come no neerer for feare least the Ordnance of those great ships would disorder and sinke him, but [ 30] * 1.1224 Doria hauing for a time continued in this manner, and perceiuing that his pollicy tooke no effect, and resoluing (as his actions did afterwards shew) not to commit himselfe to the hazard of a battaile, began openly to retire.

The Turkes taking courage by the retreate of our men, did come so farre for∣ward, as diuerse of the enemies Galleys were very neere to the Gallion and the Argozey, who by reason of the place, wherein they were, and their greatnesse they could not retire so soone, but a Cannon shot beeing made vpon the Gallion, and fire taking in a barrell of powder, the marriners and soldiers were in great feare and disorder: but the Captaine prouiding a speedy remedy for it, did defend them from danger, and the Turkish Galleys comming still neerer to these ships, [ 40] both of them at one time discharged their ordnance vpon them, so as euery Bul∣let dooing execution, they enforced them sodainly to retire.

In this manner the whole army of the league beeing safe and vntoucht (sauing* 1.1225 a few vessels that were lost in the retreate) was brought to Corfou. Doria in his Galley would be the last that should retire, thereby to shew himselfe more braue and valiant, or else that hee had a great care of the Army: but all men knew, that it did not proceed from magnanimity of courage, or from any good will that hee did beate to the cause, but onely because hee trusted to the swiftnesse of his owne Galley, wherein he might easily escape, which Capel perceiuing, would not like∣wise depart, till the very selfe-same time that hee retired. [ 50]

The end of the second Booke of the sixth Decade.

The Contents of the third Booke of the [ 10] sixth Decade.

BArbarossa retireth into the Gulph of Larta, for feare of Sea tempests. How all men did condemne Andre Doria. The Confederates take Castel Nouo in the Gulphe of Ca∣thara. [ 20] Doria with his Galleys retireth into Sicily. The Venetians take Rissana. The occasions which mooued the Senate to make peace with the Turke. Gritti goeth to Constantinople for that purpose. Guy Vbaldo, Duke of Vrbin, sonne to Francesco Maria, is made Generall of the Venetian troopes. An Accord betwixt the Pope and the Duke of Vrbin for the Dutchy of Camerin. Barbarossa recouereth Castel-nouo. The Bascha alledgeth Solimans com∣plaints concerning the accord with the Venetians. Barbarossa giueth an [ 30] assault to Cathara, hoping to take it. The Baschas vnreasonable demands vpon the agreement with the Venetians. The Emperor Charles passeth thorow France into Flanders, to chastice the Gantois. The Cardinall Far∣neze commeth into France, as Legat at that enter view. The Conclusion of the peace with the Turkes according to their owne minde. The sorrow and discontent of those of Naples and Maluesia, when they vnderstood that their Townes were made ouer to the Turkes. And lastly, the Consignation of [ 40] those two townes into the Baschas hands, with the departure of diuerse of the Inhabitants, to goe and dwell else-where.

The third Booke of the sixth Decad of the Historie of Uenice. [ 10]

THE Army of the league beeing returned to Corfou, Barbarossa not beeing satisfied that hee had escaped shame and danger, went into the Isle of Paxu, some twelue miles from thence, where he continued for a time, daring as it were the Confederates to come forth of their Hauen and fight, or else waiting for an opportunity to endanger them, but the Army [ 20] of the league was filled with disorder and feare, Doria his conduct beeing thought most in∣fortunate, and his loyalty and counsell much suspected: there was no man that durst vnder∣take* 1.1226 a deed of consequence: if any proposition were made, infinite numbers of difficulties were found therein, and the Galleys re∣maining thus in the hauen, without any military action, the Turkes after that they had braued the Christian army, fearing foule weather and tempests, by reason that part of October was spent, retired into the Gulph of Larta.

Such was the successe of that yeare, such was the end of so great a warlick pre∣paration, [ 30] and in a word, that great expectation of all men came to nothing, to the great hurt and disaduantage of all Christendome, and to the particular dis∣honor of André Doria, against whom, all men cried out, some taxing him of cow∣ardise,* 1.1227 others of treachery, and for that hee stood badly affected to the good of Christendome, and particularly to that of the Venetians. Those who spake of it more openly, did blame his sundry immoderate affections, his intollerable ambi∣tion, his feare to expose himselfe to dangers, his great auarice, wherewith he was some-times so blinded, as hee esteemed nothing so much as his owne pri∣uate gaine. The Spaniards more then all others cryed out against him, and especially the Marquis of Aguilar the Emperors Ambassador at Rome, who [ 40] went about to wipe out the opinion which all men had conceiued, how that the Emperor his maister had intelligence with him, and that by his commandement he had so carried himselfe. But the Venetian Senate beeing well aduised, think∣ing it not fit to make him their enemy, in regard hee still had the command of the Army, was desirous, amid these publick curses, to shew that they did in no sort re∣sent it, nor were any whit displeased with him, but wrote him a very louing letter, to assure him that they beleeued, that he, as a wise and discreet Captaine, had done nothing, but with great consideration and good councell. Yet neuerthelesse, the imputations laid vpon him, beeing come to his hearing, did greatly afflict him: so as since his returne to Corfou, he did for many dayes liue in priuate, not com∣ming [ 50] abroad in publick, and when in his owne presence, any mention was made* 1.1228 of that which had happened in that voyage, hee did seeme to bee extreamly sorry for it, beeing scarce able to keepe him selfe from shedding teares, (either true or seigned,) in acknowledgment of his fault.

All the Army of the league after that retreat, did for a time remaine at Cor∣fou: but the Confederates supposing it to bee a disgrace vnto them to continue so long in the hauen, the season being fit for sea actions, notwithstanding that it was then Autumne, and the enemies beeing farre from thence, they began to pro∣pound sundry matters. The Generall Capell did solicite them to saile with the whole Army into the Archipelago, where (as he said) some new occasion might be offered of fighting with the enemy, and though that should not come to passe, yet an other notable and certaine profit might redound by that iourney, in regard that diuers ships that were loden going to Constantinople, would fall into their hands as an assured booty, besides, they should releeue Naples and Maluesia, and [ 10] * 1.1229 might recouer diuerse Islands of the Archipelago, as easily as they had been lost, from whence they might draw great commodity, and chiefly of Rowers for the Nauy, whereby double profit would redound to them, as to driue the enemies from thence, and to make aboade there by reason of the hauen•…•…, wherewith those Islands doe abound, where the fleete might lye in all safety, and their abode there would make Barbarossa iealous and fearfull, so as hee would not dare to carry his fleet to Constantinople, and that Gulphe beeing taken from him, which was very commodious for his vse, hee would not come forth at all, or else very late, to sea the next yeare: whereby his honor and reputation would enforce him to come [ 20] to a battaile.

Others, and especially Doria were of opinion, rather to go and besiege Duraz∣zo, thinking it a dangerous matter to saile at that season vpon the Archipelago, and the labour likewise which should be bestowed in the recouery of those Islands would be lost, there beeing no safe nor assured Fort; wherevpon so soone as the Turkish Army should shew it selfe, they would bee againe recouered: But on the contrary, they could but haue great hope of the happy successe of the enterprise of Durazzo, inregard of the quality of the place, beeing of it selfe very commo∣dious, a neere neighbour to Italy, and fitte for opening the way to greater ex∣ploits in Albania. But this proposition likewise did finde sundry difficulties, first, that there were no hauens there fitte for the Fleet, especially for the ships, who [ 30] without danger could not ride vpon those shallow flattes: Next, that the coun∣trey was full of Turkish Cauallery, who might easily breake the enterprise, the like might Barbarossa doe comming to Valona: so as it would bee no safe mat∣ter to land the soldiers, and to leaue the vessels vnfurnished, hauing so mighty an enemy neere them: that they were to make warre else-where, and to molest the enemy in places farther off from his greatest forces, which consisted in horse and foote.

Both these propositions then beeing for these reasons reiected, they resolued to enter the Gulphe, there to enterprise some-what, which might assuredly, and without difficulty answer their desire. The Army then departing from Corfou, [ 40] sayled to the mouth of the Channell of Catharra to besiege Castle-nouo, a place seated on the sea-shore, a little within the Gulphe, which Mahomet had certaine yeares before, taken from Chersega: that place was sufficiently esteemed, not for beeing great, or of an impregnable fortification, but onely for the situation,* 1.1230 commodious for diuers matters, and chiefly for the Venetians, for the safety of Cathara. Aboue the Towne there is a Castle, kept by a garrison of Turkes, all the other inhabitants are Dalmatians or Sclauonians.

The fleet hauing entred the Gulph, Doria landed his footmen not farre from the castle, and within a while after his ordnance to batter it, giuing the particular charge thereof to Don Ferrant de Gonzaga. But whilest they planted the ord∣nance, [ 50] the Generall Capello beeing come neere to the Citties walls with his gal∣leis, forth of the danger of the Castles shorte, the which comming from aboue •…•…lew ouer their heads, hee began to giue an assault to the Towre with his Rowers and mar•…•…iners, who vsing their oares insteed of ladders, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 it in sundry

places, did at last enter it, and opened the Gates to the soldiers: Wherevpon the Turkes did sodainly retire into the Castle, but within a while after, perceiuing that they could not long hold out, they yeelded vpon discretion. The towne was sackt by the Spaniards, notwithstanding Don Ferrants prohibition, who knew that the spoile did belong to the Venetians, but the insolency of that nation was so great, as not beeing satisfied with the spoile of the Citty, when they did meete with any of the Venetian Rowers, returning to the Galleys loden with pillage,* 1.1231 they did take all from them, and would perforce enioy the fruite of other mens labours. Barbarossa beeing aduertised that the Christian Army was gone to be∣siege Castel-nouo, did leaue Preueze, and was onward on his way, meaning to go [ 10] and releeue it, or at least by the report of his comming to breake the enemies* 1.1232 enterprize: But hauing sailed halfe way thither, a marueilous tempest arose, in which thirty of his Galleys were cast away and sunck: Wherevpon hee returned with the rest, very much beaten to Volona.

The Christian army hauing intelligence of this losse, all men began to cry out and said, that it behooued them to saile forthwith towards the enemies, who were weakened both in courage and forces, to fight with them: the Generall Capello did with great vehemency perswade Doria not to lose such an occasion, seeing it was not farre from thence to Valona, where they might assaile the Turkish fleet, which was not in state to fight, beeing weakned by the fortune of the sea, nor was [ 20] able to escape, by reason that all their Oares were in a manner broken: neither could it presume vpon the safety of the place where it lay, the Castle of Valona beeing not able to defend them, because it was too farre off from the hauen. But Doria making excuses, saying some-times that hee resolued to goe thither, and* 1.1233 afterwards that the season was vnfit for such an enterprise, with diuerse other im∣pediments, did make such long delayes, as hee gaue Barbarossa time and leisure to conduct his army in safety to Constantinople, hauing left Dragut in the Gulph of Lepanto with fiue and twenty Galleys, and a certaine number of Galeots and Fusts belonging to Pirats, to hinder the Christians nauigation.

Doria afterwards alledging new occasions, that he might be gone from thence; [ 30] and chiefly the want of Bisket that was in the Army, resolued to depart, and to carry his Army into Sicily, notwithstanding that he was councelled and exhorted by his owne friends and countrey-men, and namely by Don Ferrant, to keepe the armies ioyned together all that winter, either at Corfou, or in some other com∣modious* 1.1234 place, to the end they might at the spring put to sea betimes, and out∣strip the enemies preparations. He left foure thousand Spaniards for the guard of Castel-nouo, vnder the command of Captaine Iohn Sarmiento, notwithstanding that the Venetian Generall entreated him, that according to the capitulations of the league, the towne might bee consigned to him, to bee kept by his soldiers: but excusing himself for that he had no commission so to do, he referred that businesse [ 40] to the Emperor: he went about beside to place six thousand Spanish footmen in garrison in the citties of Budua, Antiuari, and Dulcino, vnder coulor that he did it for the Venetians commodity, the better to assure those townes, and to haue sol∣diers alwayes ready to make speedy vse of, at the Spring.

Doria beeing gone, the Patriarke Grimani followed him within a while after, and sailed to Ancona, where hee disarmed the Galleys, and sent them empty to Venice: afterwards hee went to Rome to yeeld an account to the Pope of that which had beene done. Capello in this manner remaining alone (all the other Commanders beeing gone) in the Gulphe of Catharra, went to Rissane a small towne not farre from thence, held by the Turkes with a small Garrison, which [ 50] beeing soone yeelded vnto him, he manned with Soldiers, and made Lodouico Zene their Gouernor. Capello in the meane time, by reason of the toyle and trauaile which hee had susteined, or rather with greefe and discontent, to see

matter, handled contrary to his desire, fell into a greeuous sicknesse, in regard whereof hee besought the Senate to giue him leaue to returne home to Ve∣nice to take order for his health.

The Duke of Vrbin at the same time beeing consumed by a lingering disease* 1.1235 dyed, not without suspition of beeing poisoned, to the Venetians great greefe and discontent: Sollemne obsequies were made for him at Venice in the Church of the Saints Iohn and Paul.

Now the occasion beeing so often lost of fighting with the Turkish fleet with a certaine assurance of the victory, and the Spaniards seazing vpon Castelnouo, did more and more encrease the suspition which all men had conceiued of the [ 10] Captaine Generalls small sincerity, or great cowardize: but some said that he had proceeded in that manner by the Emperors will and consent: wherevpon the Se∣nate was greatly troubled and perplexed, for that it had vndertaken such a warre against so mighty an enemy, and made their at•…•…onement with him more vneasie by their refusall thereof, (hauing beene therevnto inuited), vppon the weake and vncertaine hope of the aid of Christian Princes, so as it knew not by what means to assure the conseruation of their State.

The Emperor by good offices had beene disposed to the obseruation of the Articles of the league, namely, to grant a proportion of corne out of Naples and [ 20] Sicily toward the entertainment of the army; to cause Castelnouo to be consig∣ned into the hands of the Republicks officers, and to command the Gallies to be ready in the moneth of March, that the fleets might be ioyned together: but the Emperor performing nothing of all this, did still find out delayes and excu∣ses;* 1.1236 for concerning the proportion of corne, his officers were first to haue their owne share and diuision: for the restitution of Castelnouo, they aleadged that the Common-wealth should first pay the Spaniards for keeping that Fort till then; and as concerning the ready expedition of the Army, in regard that the Emperor determined to be in it in person, it behooued them to make greater preparations, and also to haue more forces, and so consequently a longer time. [ 30]

But in some of these things, reason, and the effect did manifest, that hee did neither regard equity nor the common good: the Emperors speeches were very magnificent, full of goodly promises, but greatly suspected that he did only in∣tend* 1.1237 to keepe the Venetians bound, by meanes of the league, that hee might make vse both of their armes and friendship, in as much as concerned his owne particular profit and comodity, and not for the wealth or seruice of the Repub∣licke, by reason that it was knowne, how that the Estates assembled in Spaine did beseech him not to deparrt forth of the Cuntrey: besides, his want of money was so great, as although his meaning had beene to haue gone in person into the Army yet hee would not haue had meanes to haue defraied the expences of [ 40] such a iourney: in regard whereof all men may perceiue that it was farre more safe and expedient for the Signory of Venice to thinke on peace and agreement rather then on armes. That which mooued them to this Treaty, was their hope* 1.1238 to obtaine peace on honest conditions, seeing that the Turkes did vse them with more respect then they were wont, for they had released the Baily forth of the Tower of the great Sea, and admitted them into Constantinople, and did like∣wise put them in hope (as it came to passe) speedily to restore all the Venetian Marchants to their liberty, and to suffer them to trade in the same manner as they had done before, so as they would be bound one for another, not to depart from Constantinople, nor to send their goods forth of the Ottoman Empire. [ 50]

There came besides to Venice a man whose name was Antonio de Modon, dwelling at that time in Zante, bringing letters from Ianusby his friend, which he had written to him concerning their owne particular traficke, wherein hee mentioned how that the great Turke and the Bascha were desirous of a Peace

with the Republick: so as if an Ambassador were sent from Venice to Constan∣tinople for that purpose, some agreement might bee easily concluded, and that this Iauusbey did offer, (so that they would intreate him) willingly to employ him selfe therein.

All these things did mooue the Councell of Tenne to begin some practise of agreement: but to the end it should bee kept secret, they would not for that time send any publick person to Constantinople, but appointed Lorenzo Gritti the* 1.1239 Dukes sonne for that iourney, vnder coullor of some affaires of his owne, and in particular for the recouery of certaine goods belonging to a brother of his, who a little before dyed at Constantinople. They enioyned him first to speake of a [ 10] generall truce, and that hee should bee very earnest therein, the better afterwards to come to some resolution. But if the Turkes should not entertaine it, then to motion a treatie of peace for the Common-wealth, by renuing the ancient capi∣tulations, and on conditions that both sides should yeeld vp those places that had beene taken during that warre.

The French King had an hand in this treaty of truce, sending an Agent expres∣ly for that purpose to Constantinople, but the small hope of any peace was soone discerned, the Turke beeing not willing to haue any accord with the Emperour, wherevpon the better to turne all his forces against him, he had propounded and consented to an agreement with the Venetians. But so soone as Gritti his going [ 20] to Constantinople was published, notwithstanding that the cause was kept se∣cret, all men did suspect the matter, how that his iourney was to treate of peace with Soliman. Don Diego Hurtado de Mendoza, Ambassador at that time for the* 1.1240 Emperor at Venice, beeing come into the Senate in secret audience, did discouer this suspition, and made a modest complaint, for that they went about to treate of peace with the common enemy, not comprehending therein the Emperor, their friend and confederate, and did afterwards seeke by a long and perswasiue orati∣on, to disswade them from peace with the Turkes. They answered him that the Republick had more then two years since entred into the league, & yet neuerthe∣lesse* 1.1241 it might truly say, that it had alone susteined all the Turkish attempts: That [ 30] they did allow of the lawfull occasions which had held back the arriuall of the ayde of the other Confederates, at that time when they most needed them, that they did likewise beleeue, how it might easily come to passe, that by sundry acci∣dents the same occasions might be againe offered: and yet neuerthelesse they had euer borne and would beare great respect to the Confederates: that the French King had procured generall truce at Constantinople, by accepting whereof they did suppose to haue procured much wealth and profit to the common cause, whereby great commodity might redound to the league, if there were nothing else then the gaining of time, which the Emperors selfe did thinke to bee most necessary for his voyage into the Leuant. [ 40]

The like pursute was made in the Emperors Court betwixt his Maiesty and the Ambassador of the Common-wealth: But it was not to any purpose, either to hasten the Emperor to make prouisions for warre, or to with-draw the Vene∣tians from the treaty of peace already determined. With such successe ended* 1.1242 the yeare 1538. about the latter end whereof, on the seuen and twenty day of December, Prince Gritti deceased, beeing foure score and foure yeares of age, hauing gouerned fifteene yeares and seauen moneths, and was buryed in Saint Francis Church.

[ 50]

[illustration]

PIETRO LANDE the seuenty eight Duke.

[ 10]

[ 20]

PIETRO LANDE was chosen in his place, a noble man, and of three score and eighteene yeeres of age. The yeere following was in a manner spent about the negotiation of peace, at the beginning whereof, the Venetians supposing that it behooued them onely, to trust and hope in their owne forces for the safety of their state, went about to encrease the Garrisons of their [ 30] * 1.1243 fortes, and to re-enforce their Armie, wherevpon▪ they made a great leuy of Soldiers, and armed other light and great galleys at Venice, they likewise sent a commandement to Alessandro Contaren the Prouidator in Candy, that hee should speedily arme fiue and twenty Galleys in that Island.

The Senate at the same time decreed, that foure thousand artificers of the Cit∣ty should bee enrolled, with whom, foure times a yeare, the Galleys appointed for that purpose should bee manned, that they might all of them row together, and they did commonly call it, Regater: and sundry stipends were appointed for such as had continued that course thrice together: This was done, that they might bee assured by this exercise still to haue men fit and ready to man on a sodaine, a [ 40] certaine number of Galleys.

They did likewise confirme Guy Vbaldo Duke of Vrbin, in the degree of Ge∣nerall of their forces by land, who in his fathers life time, had serued the Repub∣lick, they encreased his place with an hundred men at armes, an hundred light horse, and the pay of ten Captaines, with foure thousand Ducats for his enter∣tainement. This Duke was thought a very fitte man for the seruice of the Common wealth, as well for the excellent parts that were in him, hauing from his youth beene trained vppe in martiall discipline, vnder his deceased Father, as by reason of his Countrey, full of good Souldiers, it beeing commo∣diously seated, for the easie sending of them from thence to their Fortes along the Sea coast: Therefore the Senate after the death of the Duke his father, did in signe of loue and honor, send Francesco 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their Ambassa∣dor, to condole with him for his death, and to assure him that the Senate would

neuer forget the notable seruices which hee had done to the common-wealth. But certaine moneths were spent before they confirmed him in his place, in re∣gard of the Pope, fearing least hee would take it ill, to see them honor and enter∣taine a Duke that was a feodatarie of the Church, hee being at variance with him. The occasion of their stri•…•…e, (as hath beene already mentioned) proceeded from the Dutchy of Camerin, which the Duke of Vrbin did enioy, by reason of his wife, the sole daughter and heire to the last Duke of Camerin, and the Pope pretended that the line masculine failing, that infeofment was to returne to the sea Apostolick. The Senate in remembrance of Duke Francesco Maria, who had deserued well of the common wealth, and for the loue that it did beare to the [ 10] sonne, did earnestly employ it selfe in that businesse, fearing least it might stirre vp some new troubles in Italy, because that the Duke of Mantua, Vncle to Duke Guy his wife, did determine to defend him, not onely with his owne forces, but with those of strangers whom he did meane to call into Italy. The Pope at the last, re∣soluing by force to haue that Dutchy, if hee could get it by faire meanes, it was agreed that Duke Guy should referre himselfe to the sea Apostolick, and that his* 1.1244 Holynesse should giue him a certaine summe of money in recompence, in name of dowry of the Dutchesse Iulia his wife.

This controuersie beeing thus ended, Duke Guy was confirmed (as hath beene sayd) in the pention of the Common-wealth. But to the end likewise that the [ 20] Nauall Army should not bee without an Head, whilest Capell, by the Senates per∣mission lay at Venice for the recouery of his health, who was not yet in state to execute his place, they chose in his steed Iohn Moro, Prouidator Generall at that time in Candy: but the Senate hauing notice within a while after of his death, the place of Generall was giuen to Thomaso Moceniga, a man excellently seene in the important affaires of the Common-wealth at home and abroad. Iohn Moro was slaine in Candy in a Popular Comotion betwixt the Greekes and the Itali∣ans of the Garrison, among whom hee running with his Halbardiers to appease the tumult was stricken with a stone vppon the head, whereof within a while af∣ter hee died. [ 30]

These were the preparations of the Venetians, whilest the Turkes did speedily* 1.1245 make ready their fleete, beeing not able to digest the losse of Castel-nouo, as men that were alwayes wonte (to the great losse of all Christendome) to winne and not to loose: therefore resoluing before all other things to attempt the re∣couery of that place, thereby to repaire their honor which that accident had be∣reft them of, they made great preparations of men and warlike engins, sufficient for a farre greater enterprise.

Dragut in the meane time, whom (as hath beene said), Barbarossa had left in the Gulphe of Lepanto, departed thence with thirty vessels both Galleots and Fusts, all well armed, and beeing come into the Isle of Paxu, did there barre the [ 40] Christians free Nauigation: for hiding himselfe in Saint Nicholas Hauen, foure miles off from Corfu, hee often sent his vessels to scoure the channell of Cor∣fou, and to take those ships which should arriue in that Island: but the Prouidator Pascalic beeing not able to beare that indignity, determined to goe forth with twelue of his best Galleys, against certaine Turkish Galleys, which were come neere to the land: but the enemies not tarrying for him, fled towards the Gulphe of Larta, to deceiue the Prouidator, and to make him thinke, that there were no other Vessels of theirs at Paxu: but as the Prouidators Galleys, giuing chase* 1.1246 to those Galeots, were come farther to Sea-ward, they discouered Dragut, who comming forth of Paxu, with the residue of his Galeots and Fusts, had put him∣selfe [ 50] forward to Sea, to take the aduantage of the winde, that hee might the better bee able to encompasse the Prouidator, who then perceiuing the dan∣ger, whereinto hee should runne by gooing any farther forward, did sodainly

did sodainly hoist sailes, and turned back towards Corfou, beeing still pursued by the enemies vessells, which comming very neere to them, caused three Venetian Gallies, who feared that they should not be able to escape by flight, to runne on ground vppon the Sands of Messanga twelue miles off from Corfou, where they did beat themselues in peeces, all the men within them, with their goods, escaped, one only Galley, belonging to Antonio Canalis, whose saile yards were broken and thereby vnable to follow the rest, was taken by the enemies.

This successe hauing made the Turkes more bold and insolent, they went with those vessells into the Ile of Candy, where landing vpon the territory of Canea, they burnt and spoiled the Countrey; but great numbers of Stadiots and [ 10] feudataries of the Island being gathered together, did charge them so fiercely as hauing slayne diuers of them, they did enforce the rest to returne to their Gal∣lies Gritti the same time returned▪ from Constantinople about the begin∣ning of Aprill, hauing made great hast in his iourney: hee reported how that by the meanes of Ianusby hee had beene brought into the presence of the Visier Bascha, who although hee entertained him very curteously, did neuerthelesse first of all greatly complaine, of the hostile actions which sundry officers of the Re∣publike* 1.1247 had executed vpon the Musulmans, which the Signory had left vnpunish∣ed, then proceeeding farther hee told him how badly hee did digest their manner of proceeding against the great Lord, and all those of his Port, hauing neuer [ 20] vouchsafed to make any answer to the propositions of agreement which hee had set downe vnto them. Gritti vpon this discourse supposing that the Turkes were not at that time much disposed to peace, had craued a suspension of armes, on all* 1.1248 sides, for threee monethes, to the end that in the meane time they might treat of an agreement, which hauing obtained, hee did at the same time publish as hee passed along vpon the Frontiers; so as the Turkish troopes encamped before Sa ona to take it, that they might afterwards goe and beseege Spalatia, did sodain∣ly retire vpon this publication.

The newes of this truce did not greatly please the Venetians, diuers fearing that his suspension of armes for so short a time might rather tend to cause some dis∣trust [ 30] in the Confederate Princes, then procure any peace: therefore the opini∣ons in the Senate, touching the pursute of this businesse, were sundry & different, where after long disputation it was resolued to send an Ambassador to Soliman to treat of peace, and Petro Zene was chosen to that end. And whilest he was pre∣paring* 1.1249 for his iourney, and the accustomed presents, Gritti was dispatched to Constantinople to carry news of the Ambassadors election, and to vse means to prolong the truce, and to begin, as occasion should be offered, to motion peace, being expresly inioyned, therein to imploy the fauor and Councell of the Lord of Rincon, Ambassador for the most Christian King at the Port of the great Lord, who had very earnestly often times offered himselfe to deale in that businesse: [ 40] but it was afterwards perceiued that hee did more harme then good, by making the matter more difficult, to the end that the King his maister might at the least be chosen vmpier of their controuersy, and might reconcile them to Soliman,* 1.1250 and thereby oblige them to him-selfe and disioyne them from the Emperor.

At the same time that Gritti arriued at Venice, the new Generall had receiued the Standard of the Common-wealth and was ready to depart to his charge, but beeing not yet gon forth of the Hauen, his departure was deferred, supposing that his proceeding on his iourney might cause the Turkes to suspect that this negociation of peace was feigned, and by that meanes might returne to inuade the confines of the Republique, which newly began to liue at quiet: but to the [ 50] end that the Army in the meane time should not be without an head, the same power and authority which the Generalls by Sea were wont to haue, was giuen to the Prouidator Contaren.

The Ambass. Zene within a while after departed from Venice being sufficiently

instructed what hee had to doe, but being come to the Serraglio of Bossina, and falling greeuously sick, hee dyed there within a while after, whereof the Senate beeing aduertised by Petro Franceschis his Secretary, they chose Thomas Contaren in his steed, a man of foure score and foure yeares of age, but greatly esteemed for his wisdome and particular knowledge in the Turkish affaires, with whom hee had a long time conuersed vpon sundry occasions. Hee was enioyned to depart within foure dayes, and in the meane time they speedily aduertised Gritti, and the Secretary of the new election, to the end hee might acquaint the Bascha there∣with, with whom Gritti his proposition, concerning a generall truce, was to no purpose, the Turkes still continuing their preparations, determining to recouer [ 10] * 1.1251 Castel-nouo rather by force then by agreement. Barbarossa was already gone thi∣ther with an hundred and fifty saile of all sorts, and with great store of Artillery: the Beglerby of Grecia was at the same time gone thither with a great Cauallery: so, that beeing contented to make an agreement with the Venetians, they did like∣wise make no great difficulty to prolong the truce with them for the whole mo∣neth of September. The report of this treaty beeing diuulged, men did diuersly discourse thereof; interpreting it according to their owne passions: the Pope ne∣uerthelesse among others did greatly commend the Venetians, for that they had in such sort prouided for the safety of their state, seeing that the other way would rather haue hurt then profited them. Now Barbarossa pursuing his iourney, did in [ 20] no sort hurt any thing that did belong to the Venetians, saying, That his meaning was to obserue the truce with them, but that the Emperor was not comprehen∣ded therein, wherevpon he was desirous to besiege Castel-nouo, which was held* 1.1252 by the Imperials: The Spaniards that were within it beeing dannted by the arri∣uall of the Army, and great numbers of Turkes, did offer that to the Venetians which they had before so brauely refused, namely, to deliuer Castle-nouo to them; but the Senate answered, That the same offer was out of time, that they had oftentimes requested that the Capitulations of the league might be obserued, and that according therevnto, that the same place might be deliuered to them, and that at the same present, beeing enforced to a treaty of peace, they neither ought [ 30] or could doe any thing that might interrupt it.

Barbarossa then in the moneth of August, beeing come into the Gulphe of Catharra with ninety Galleys and thirty Fusts, did cast anchor so farre off from Castel-nouo, as the Artillery within it could not offend him, and safely landed his troopes, with foure score peeces of ordnance of all sorts. At the same time in a manner, Vlaman Sangiach of the Prouince came thither with great numbers of foot and horse, which encamped round about the towne, those within it not being* 1.1253 able by their sallies to hinder their encamping. The Turkes hauing begun the bat∣tery in three places, did so well continue it, and did afterwards assaile it in such sort, as all those of the towne, after they had brauely defended themselues, being taken [ 40] and slaine, Barbarossa made himselfe maister of the place, who after the taking of Castel-nouo went to Rissane, which was yeelded vnto him without contradicti∣on, by Lodouico Zene, the Garrison being not strong enough to defend it: Barba∣rossa sent to Matteo Bembo Gouernor of Catharra, to will him to deliuer that place vnto him, with whom hee sought occasions of quarrell, that hee might assaile that towne.

In the end, after sundry complaints that his runne-away slaues were retyred thither, with other feigned matters which hee alleadged, hauing layde aside all* 1.1254 respect of the truce, hee did audaciously send word to the Gouernour to de∣liuer the Citty of Catharra into his hands, otherwise hee would come and [ 50] take it by force, beeing commanded by Soliman to seaze vpon that Forte, and on what-so-euer the Signory did possesse in those quarters: therefore hee should not doe well to attend and waite for his owne ruine, but to prouide

in time for the safety of himselfe and people; that he would giue leaue to as ma∣ny as would depart thence, so to doe, and good entertainment to such as would abide there.

Bembo not being daunted with these summons, although hee did not looke for* 1.1255 them, vsed speedy meanes to prouide all things necessary for the defence of the towne, and to stirre vp the Citizens and souldiers to a braue resistance; then hee answered Barbarossa, that hee did greatly wonder, and so would like∣wise all the world beside, at his audacious demaund, the which beeing whol∣ly against all reason, hee could not imagine to proceed from Soliman, who was euer wont to keepe his word and promise, and that therefore hee did so [ 10] much relie vpon the iustice of his owne cause, as hee did determine to keepe and defend that towne, committed vnto him by his Country and Common∣wealth.

Barbarossa made no reply to this answere, but caused part of his Gallies to set forward, the which being inconsiderately come neere to the forte, were to their great hurt and losse beaten backe by the Artillery: Barbarossa beeing the next day come thither with the residue of the army, was likewise repul∣sed by the ordnance; and hauing landed great numbers of souldiers farre of from the castle, those which went by the way of the hill, comming very neere [ 20] vnto the walles, were so hurt by small peeces of ordnance which were planted vppon the highest place of the castle, as beeing disordered they made all pos∣sible* 1.1256 haste they could for to returne towardes their Gallies: but vpon those who went on the land side where the Church and Monastery of Saint Francis standeth, with whom Barbarossa was in person to view the place, the Stradiots with certaine Harquebuziers on horse backe made a salley, and enforced them to re∣tire to their losse, and to saue themselues on the toppe of the next hill whither the horse-men could not follow them.

Barbarossa hauing well viewed and obserued the castle, and the resolution of those within it, brauely to defend themselues, despayring of beeing able to take it, hauing stayed there one day longer without enterprizing any thing, deter∣mined [ 30] to raise his campe and to returne to the mouth of the Gulphe; whether being come, and leauing a strong Garrison in Castel-nouo, hee did wholly de∣part forth of the Gulphe of Catharra: it was then thought that hee would goe to scoure the sea-coasts of Puglia; and by the way hee passed by the Channell of Corfou, wherein signe of friendship hee was saluted with certaine Cannon shot from the castle, and presented from the Gouernour with fresh cates, and certaine garments, which hee did very willingly receiue with great thankes, and kinde speeches.

The report of the taking of Castel-nouo, and Barbarossa his enterprize vppon Cathara was not very pleasing to the Senate, fearing, that their army beeing [ 40] deuided, the enemy would make some other attempt vppon their State. At the same time whilest that the Turkes did batter Castel-nouo, Andrew Doria* 1.1257 departing from Sicily was come to Casopa, from whence hee sent word to the Prouidator Contaren, who lay at Corfou, that a faire occasion was offered to ouerthrow the enemies, whilest they hauing forsaken their Gallies were busied in battering Castel-nouo, therefore hee did aduise him for to ioyne both their fleetes together: the Prouidator hauing answered him (the better to sound his intent) that hee would bee ready to releeue Castel-nouo, and to* 1.1258 execute any other enterprize, so that all the forces might bee ioyned together with hope of profit: Doria making no replie at all vnto this answere, retired [ 50] to the hauen of Brandissa.

The Ambassador Contaren in the meane time iournyed towards Constan∣tinople, whither beeing come and brought into Solimans presence who had graunted him audience, all the time that hee was deliuering his commission,

Soliman held his hand vpon his brest, signifying (as his seruants interpreted it) a troubled minde, yet neuerthelesse hauing quietly heard him, hee told him that hee was welcome, not making any other answere to his negociation, re∣ferring him (as the manner is) vnto his Bashas: with whom Contaren after∣wardes* 1.1259 conuersing, and beginning more particularly for to explaine his com∣mission, so soone as they heard him to motion the yeelding vppe on both sides, of places taken in that warre, they answered on a sodaine that hee was not to speake any more of that; how that their Lord was greatly animated against them, and especially for their league made with the Emperour a∣gainst him, whereby hee was so farre off from harkening to any restitution, [ 10] as on the contrarie they were not to hope to obtaine any thing of him, vn∣lesse that they did render vnto him the Citties of Naples and Maluesia, with whatsoeuer the Signory did possesse on the sea of Constantinople, as farre as Castel-nouo, by meanes whereof all cause of warre should bee taken a∣way for after times, and a firme peace established betwixt them: they demaun∣ded moreouer, to haue Soliman recompenced for his expences in that warre, ha∣uing beene by them drawne to it perforce, and not mooued therevnto by any a∣uarice, but for his owne honour, knowing very well that they had granted as much to the Emperour, a farre meaner Prince then hee.

The Ambassadour declaring that hee could not grant any of their demands, [ 20] told them that his commission did not extend so farre, that the Common∣wealth* 1.1260 ought verilie for to desire peace, so farre forth as it might stand with her honour and dignity, the which it would euer maintaine and defend by armes, and that for himselfe, hee beeing but an actor of the Senates will and pleasure, neither could nor would say or doe any other thing, but that hee would acquaint them at Venice with the whole matter; intreating them in the meane space that the same businesse might bee delayed till such time as hauing written thither he might vnderstand the Senates resolution therevpon.

The Bashas did put him in hope that the businesse might haue a prospe∣rous end, so that the Venetians would grant part of their demaunds: how that [ 30] their custome was to craue much to obtaine little: therefore they did aduise him to returne backe in person to Venice, particularlie to acquaint his supe∣riours with the whole businesse, that they might afterwardes come to some new treaty, and that his returne would bee in a very fit time to bee present at the nuptials of the great Lords daughter, and at the circumcision of one of his sonnes.

Contaren vpon these words, notwithstanding that so many iourneys and delaies were tedious to him in regard of his yeeres, and the important businesse that was in hand, yet neuerthelesse supposing that if he should stay any longer at Constan∣nople, after this leaue giuen him, it would put the Turkes in hope to obtaine their [ 40] demands, hee resolued to depart, hauing first very speedily aduertized the Senate of all that which had passed.

The Ambassadors departure did greatly trouble the Senate, together with the difficulties made vpon the accord: for the found it a very hard matter alone and* 1.1261 of themselues to make warre vpon so mighty an enemy: that their hopes groun∣ded vpon other mens forces, although weake and to small purpose, were by that negociation wholly lost: on the other side, to accept peace on such vniust conditi∣ons would to much blemish the Republikes reputation, and by quitting so easily their townes, and giuing away their money, was nothing else but to cause the ene∣mies who by nature are insolent, to demand greater matters. [ 50]

During these irresolutions Casar Cantelmo came to Venice, who hauing beene already sent (as hee said) to Soliman from the most Christian King, a∣bout the negociation for the truce, at his returne into France, had in∣formed the King of the whole matter, wherevpon hee returned againe by

his commandement to Constantinople for the same businesse.

The French Ambassador comming into the Senate, told them that the King his Maister did expresly send that gentleman to Constantinople, about the affairs of the Venetian Common-wealth, and from him to deale in the negociation of peace, and therefore he was come to Venice to receiue their commandements therevpon, being by the King enioyned to execute them as though they were his owne. The Lord Iohn Francesco Valerio a Venetian Gentleman, did affirme the very same, who hauing remained a long time in France, had beene very fa∣milliar* 1.1262 with the chiefe Lords of the Court, who did often acquaint him with matters of importance: this Gentleman did testifie the Kings loue and hearty [ 10] affection towards them and his readinesse to send other Agents to Soliman, if the Senate should dislike of Cantelmo; exhorting them to trust to the King, and to his loue towards the Republike, the totall summe of this negociation: that there was no better nor safer way then that to reconcile them to the Turke, with more honour, and lesse losse.

They were aduertized at the same time that an enteruiew was practised be∣twixt* 1.1263 the Emperour and the French King: the cause thereof was the iourney which the Emperour determined to make into Flanders, to chastice those of Gant who had rebelled, resoluing to goe thither through France, and to talke with the King, and to treat with him (for so it was reported) about some good a∣greement, [ 20] that being good friends they might afterwards ioyne their forces to∣gether against the Turkes.

The enteruiew of these Princes furnished all men with matters of sundry dis∣course, and chiefely the Venetian Senate, where it was a long time debated whether they should continue the treaty of peace with the Turke, in regard of matters offered, and the hard conditions propounded by Soliman: On the o∣ther side, some were of opinion to embrace the occasion of Cantelmo his voyage, and the Kings offer; if they should refuse it, it was to bee feared, that his Maiesty would take it in ill part, thinking that they made small account of him or his friendship: that they were at least to entreat that Gentleman on the Kings be∣halfe [ 30] to insist vpon the Generall truce, which beeing graunted, would great∣ly* 1.1264 serue, for the fitnesse of the time and the quiet which thereby would arise, to en∣ioyne him besides, to assure the Turke, that the Senates intention was none o∣ther then to procure a firme peace vpon honest conditions.

Others propounded that it was best to send a speedy messenger to Contaren to command him for to tarry in that place where hee should meet with him, and there to expect a new commission which the Senate would send him, according to the progression of the affaires: others thought it fit to proceed to the electi∣on of a new Ambassadour, or else to referre the whole businesse to the Bayly Ca∣nalis, who was at liberty, and able to negociate: but these men were not of opi∣nion [ 40] to make vse of Cantelmo in this negociation, nor to impart any thing vn∣to him: that he was a Neapolitan, bannished from his Country, who besides the Kings deseignes and interests, quite contrary perhaps to those of the Repub∣like, had his owne likewise a part, which might hinder and not further the good successe of that businesse: That their safety and publike dignity did not per∣mit them to discouer vnto such men any iot of the Senates intention, the which they were to suspect, and not without cause, that hee was very desirous to know rather to crosse then to further it: that the Emperour sought all occa∣sions to breake this pursute of peace, which did so much trouble and anoy him; [ 50] and the French King vpon hope to recouer the State of Milan, was ready to con; tent him in all things.

To all these considerations they added an other, which was of no meane* 1.1265 consequence, which was, that because the haruest of the same yeere had beene euery where, and especially ouer all Italie, verie badde, wherewith the

City of which was to feed an infinite number of persons, was greatly troubled, so as the people, who were wont to fare delicately, and to eate none other bread then that which was made of wheate, were enforced to feed on all sorts of graine, and in hazard likewise to want them, vnlesse they might bee brought from for∣raine countries (Venice hauing no corne territory of her owne) a thing which did greatly trouble the Senate; wherevpon, the better to prouide for a matter of so great importance; some said that the friendship of the Turkes was very necessary: and others thought it fit to haue recourse to the Spaniards to get proportions of wine and graine from their countries: whereby it fell out that the same subiect serued for a foundation whereon to build the two sundry o∣pinions. [ 10]

In this manner was the time spent without any certaine resolution, so as the Ambassador Contaren hauing continued his iourney, and receiued no new com∣mandement* 1.1266 from the Senate, arriued at Venice, and Cantelmo departed thence without any commission.

These irresolutions gaue the Emperor some hope, who espied al occasions to breake the negociation of peace with Soliman, and once more to draw the Vene∣tians to confirme the league, therefore supposing that there was nothing which could better further his intention, then to make them beleeue that he was friends with the French King, and that being thereby freed from all other lets, he would [ 20] employ all his forces vpon the enterprize of the Leuant, and that the French King would aide and fauour the league, determined to send some noble personage to Venice, perswading the King to doe the like, to acquaint the Venetians with the enteruiew, and to discouer somewhat of their intentions.

The Marquis of Guasto who was gouernor of Milan for the Emperor, and the Lord of Annebault Marshall of France, and Generall for the most Christian* 1.1267 King in Piedmont, came to Venice vpon the tenth day of December. Their enter∣tainment was magnificent, as well in regard of the Princes greatnesse that sent them, as for the quality and nobility of the persons, great numbers of Senators [ 30] went to meet them with the Bucentaur, and seuen Gallies; then they were lodg∣ed in a goodly pallace, and their expence defraied by the Signory. Their first au∣dience was giuen them in the great Hall, where the great Councell is held, in the presence of many people, where there were no other speeches vsed but comple∣mentall and of entertainment.

Returning at an other time into the Senate in secret audience, the Marquis of* 1.1268 Guasto began to tell them,

that he was sent by the Emperor Charles to acquaint them, as his trusty and inward friends, with the enterview which he determined in France with the French King, and in Flanders with King Ferdinand his bro∣ther and the Queene his sister, who did then gouerne those countries for him, assu∣ring [ 40] them that in the same assembly of Princes, affaires would be handled con∣cerning the common good of Christendome, and the particular profit of that Common-wealth, which the Emperor did as much desire, as that of his owne Estates. And that now seeing they were ready to assaile the Turkes with very great forces, the Emperour was desirous to know the Senates will and intention therein, what prouisions they would iudge to be necessary, and what they would haue him to doe for his part, for the better mannaging of his deseignes: that the peace with the French King, although it were not established, might neuer∣thelesse be held for done, in regard of the mutuall disposition and good cor∣respondence betwixt those Princes: whereby all men were certainely to be∣leeue, that they would both together turne their armes (beeing freed from all [ 50] other lettes) vpon the Infidels: but because the greatnesse of the businesse did likewise carry with it length of time, and for that the time of yeere was already to farre spent to make such great prouisions, the Emperor thought it fittest for the time present to stand vpon the defensiue rather then on the offensiue with

the enemies, wherein he would not faile to haue as great a care of the safety of his friends States as of his owne.

The Lord of Annebault spake in a manner to the same effect, protesting his Kings good will and desire to the peace and profit of all Christendome. It was no hard matter to discerne wherevnto all these practises tended; and what the Emperours true deseignes were, namely to feed the French with a vaine hope of restoring vnto them the Dutchy of Milan; and the Venetians, by propoun∣ding vnto them to make great preparations for warre against the Turkes, not ca∣ring very much to performe these things, but onely thereby to winne time, by being assured of the armes of the French, diuerting the Kings thoughts from [ 10] warre, and of those of the Turkes, by opposing against them as a Bulwarke the States and army of the Venetian Common-wealth.

Answere was made to the Marquis and to the Lord Annebault how that their* 1.1269 arriuall was very pleasing and acceptable, as well for respect to the Princes which sent them, as for their owne persons, for which, and for the honour and friend∣ship which they did beare to the Common-wealth, they did infinitely thanke their Princes▪ the newes of the good correspondence, and certaine hope of peace betwixt such mighty Princes, had much reioyced them, and so much the more, by how much greater the profit was which al Christendome might receiue there∣by. But as concerning the declaration of their meaning and intent towards the [ 20] present occasions, it might be sufficiently knowne by their actions, seeing that they had so soone at the first taken armes, many times refused all propo∣sitions of agreement, and liberally furnished all expences requisite, without nig∣gardize, neither had they refused to execute all enterprizes how dangerous so∣euer▪ how that for their parts, they had already for the space of three yeeres borne the whole burthen of the warre: and being at that time inuited by those hopes, they were ready againe to expose themselues: yet neuerthelesse all men might well perceiue that they were not able alone to hold out long against the power of so great an enemy: therefore what could they say more? Their necessity beeing knowne vnto all men: how euery one knew that Barbarossa [ 30] lay in the Gulphe of Lepanto with fourescore saile, intending (as it was reported) to winter there, whereby the whole world might perceiue to what daunger the whole State of the Common-wealth was exposed, and by conse∣quent that of all Christendome, vnlesse the nauall armies might bee euery∣where ready by the month of February, to diuert his deseignes: all which things were very exactly to bee thought vppon and considered, and speedily r•…•…medied.

This answere without any resolution at all was thought fit for their pro∣position, and the condition of the times: and without proceeding to any more particular negociation, the Ambassadours of the Emperour and the King retur∣ned [ 40] home into their countries.

The Pope on the other side hauing had notice of these Ambassadours comming to Venice, was displeased therewith, because that the enteruiew was resolued on, without his knowledge and consent; not that hee did* 1.1270 any way distrust the Republike, beeing very well assured that it would euer runne the selfe same fortune as did the Sea Apostolike: but because hee great∣ly feared, least all that outward shew of honour and friendship should couer (as at other times) some important practize against the liberty of Italy: where∣vpon, hee did by all good offices solicit the Venetians, that their might bee be∣twixt the Sea Apostolike and their Common-wealth a sound and perfect in∣telligence [ 50] and correspondency, and he for his owne part would not any way faile for to prouide all possible meanes to beate backe all the daungers which might happen.

The Emperor hauing intelligence of these suspitions of the Pope, fearing least

his discontent might be some hinderance to his deseignes, did on a sodaine lend Luigi Dauila to Rome, and caused the French King to send the Lord of Saint Iust thither, to acquaint the Pope with that enterview in France and for to iustifie their actions. The Pope by the arriuall of those Ambassadors was greatly satisfied, and the better to demonstrate it, he determined to send his Nephew, the* 1.1271 Cardinall Farneze, into France, to the end that as Legat to the See of Rome, he might be present at the assembly of those Princes, fauor the conclusion of peace, and offer the Popes authority, with all the Churches treasure, for the enterprise a∣gainst the Infidels. The Senate in demonstration of the friendship and respect which it did beare to those Princes, did appoint two Ambassadors to be present [ 10] likewise at that enteruiew, namely Antonio Capello, and Vincenzo Griman•…•…, both of them Procurators of Saint Marke, who were enioyned by the Senate to thanke the Emperor and the French King for the friendship and honour which they had shewed to the Common-wealth, by acquainting it with what they determined to doe; next to praise and commend their intentions, and to incite them to prouide for the dangers of Christendome, and lastly to excuse them for that they had sent an Ambassador to Constantinople, being enforced therevnto, because they had not sufficient forces to resist the enemy.

At the same time an Ambassador came to Venice from the King of Hunga∣ry, to request the Senate to make a firme alliance with him for the common de∣fense [ 20] * 1.1272 of both their States, and to exhort them besides to continue the treaty of peace with the Turkes, in regard the Emperor would neuer be at peace with the French, so long as he could haue the Estates of the Venetian Republike, and the Realme of Hungary for his Bulwarke: for the which aduertisement they thanked his King, and for that present delt no farther with him.

But although the Pope did offer his forces to maintaine the warre, and exhor∣ted the Senate to prouide dilligently for the conseruation of their States and de∣fense of Christendome, yet neuerthelesse he did not dissemble the suspition which he had conceiued of the Imperials, and the smal hope he had in their aide: where∣vpon, he did often times affirme, that being assured that the Venetian Senate, as [ 30] most prudent and well aduised, would neuer make peace with the Turke, vnlesse they were enforced therevnto by very vrgent necessity: euen so, the occasions be∣ing once knowne to be such, he did commend their councell, which knew how to fit it selfe to times and necessity.

Now about the same time the Senate receiued letters from the Bayly Cana∣lis, who aduertised them that great and magnificent triumphs were preparing at Constantinople for the nuptials of the great Lords daughter, married to Ru∣sten Basha and for the circumcision of two of his children, and to that end they expected some from Venice, and that the Basha did greatly desire, that according to the vsuall custome, some Ambassador of theirs might come to the Porte, to haue an occasion to reuiue the treaty of peace. [ 40]

The Senate being assembled therevpon, and a proposition being made to e∣lect an Ambassador to send to Soliman, all of them with one voice and consent embracing the businesse, did choose 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Badoario, a Senator of great au∣thority, and one of those who had most of all perswaded the Senate to an ac∣cord with Soliman, offering himselfe, if neede were, to goe thither for that purpose.

They did then enioyne him first of all to procure the negociation of the Gene∣rall* 1.1273 truce, according to the former instructions of the Ambassador Contaren, continued by the French Kings Agent: then to motion the restitution of all [ 50] those places possessed on either side during that warre; and if hee could not obtaine that, then to treate of a finall peace, by renuing of the ancient capi∣tulations:* 1.1274 giuing authority for to offer some fiue or sixe thousand Dicat•…•… a peece for the Cities of Naples and Maluesia, and to promise three hundred

thousand Ducats for the expences that Soliman had beene at in that warre. This was the Senates commission. But the councell of Tenne, who at that time did Soueraignly treate of the most serious affaires of state, without communicating them to the Senate, to the end they might be more secretly managed among few∣er persons, added another more ample commission, namely to haue power, if hee should perceiue the treaty to bee wholy desperate, to surrender vnto them the townes of Naples and Maluesia.

These Senators, who were of the ancient and best experienced in the gouern∣ment, did very well know how greeuous, and insupportable that warre had bin vnto them: how that Naples and Maluesia were farre off from them, and there∣fore [ 10] * 1.1275 hardly to be releeued and easie to be beseeged by the enemy, whereby they had beene in danger oftentimes to haue beene taken, in regard of their want of many things: So as they would ere then haue fallen into the enemies hands, had not the truce protected them. That the Common-wealth was at the same time in great danger, where-vpon it was discreetly aduised, to cast away some▪what, although it were deere and pretious, to conduct it safely to the Hauen of peace, forth of the rockes of that dangerous warre: That it was a Maxim confirmed by many experiences, that time, in the Negociations with the Turkes doth breed danger, and the conclusion of matters, by delaies, haue euer had a bad and difficul∣t [ 20] successe.

This happened about the latter end of the yeare, and at the beginning of the next which was 1540. the Emperor came to Paris, where the king entertained him* 1.1276 with all possible signes of honor and friendship. Christophero Capello, Ambassador at the same time for the Signory in France, did acquaint both of them with the Senates answer to the Marquis of Guasto, and the Marshall D. Anibault, where∣vnto the Emperor answered, that although for his owne part hee did resolue to make warre vpon the Turkes, yet neuer-the-lesse hee could not see, in regard of the shortnesse of the time, how they might satisfie the Republcks desire: and therefore that it would be to more purpose, at that present, to obtaine a generall* 1.1277 truce, during which they might haue time to prepare forces, conuenient for such [ 30] an enterprize, and that he in the meane time, would not omit to doe whatsoeuer lay in him for the common safety of their Sea Estates. The most Christian King did at the same time make great protestation for his good will, saying, that hee would let men know, that his intention neuer was to diuert the common good of Christendome, but that he was ready speedily to embrace peace, and concord with the Emperor, that he might afterwards vndertake a warre, more proffitable and necessary, but that the present time would not permit him to treat of those bussinesses, because he would not mingle graue and serious matters among feasts, and ioy for the Emperors arriuall, the negociating whereof might breed difficul∣ties and discontents, where-vpon, they had referred the whole businesse to the as∣sembly [ 40] of Flanders.

Capello hauing acquainted the Senate with the Emperors and French Kings answers, they were found to be very generall, so as no certaine hold could be ta∣ken thereon; neither of peace betwixt themselues, not of warre against the Turkes;* 1.1278 where-vpon they resolued more earnestly to persue the treaty of peace already begun: and did write to Badoario, who ariuing at Constantinople about the mid∣dest of Aprill, began to treat according to his commission with the Baschas, there∣in vsing the fauour and aduice of the French Ambassador. But at the beginning of their negotiation, great difficulties did arrise, not that the Turkes were vn∣willing of an agreement, but because they hauing notice of the secret commissi∣on, [ 50] giuen to Badoario, and thereby being growne more insolent, as well in regard of the feare and desire of peace, which they discouered to be in the Venetians, as for that they were assured to obtaine what-so-euer they demanded, began forth∣with to protest that they would not harken to any other proposition, vnlesse▪ that

besides the Ilands of the Archipelago and the Castles of Nada Laurana which they already enioyed) the Citties of Naples and Maluesia might bee freely surrendred to them, and restitution made for the expences of the warre.

The Ambassador beeing amazed at these demands so sodainly and obstinately made, and suspecting the truth of the matter, did for certaine daies giue ouer* 1.1279 that negociation, incertaine of himselfe what he were best to doe, on the other side he was drawne from it, when he considered how that by continuing this trea ty and consenting to the Turkes demaunds, he should put them in hope to ob∣taine other matters. Hauing spent certaine daies in this perplexity, Barbarossa [ 10] seeming to be desirous that he should go foreward with the treaty of agreement perswaded him not to giue ouer his enterprize, offering to aid and fauour him, and although he opened him a way to be a better hope, yet neuerthelesse by con∣tinuing the Treaty he found no alteration in the Baschas, wherevpon he was en∣forced in a short time by little, and little, to consent to that which was reserued till the very last, namely to giue ouer, besides the Townes which they already posses∣sed, the Citties of Naples and Maluesia, and to pay vnto them within three* 1.1280 yeares towards the expences of the warres, the summe of three hundred thou∣sand Crownes. Then were the antient Capitulations renewed and confirmed, together with diuers other particularities concerning the establishment of the [ 20] peace.

The report of this agreement beeing brought to Venice, although euery man desired it, the Republick being in great distresse by reason of the discomodities of the warres, and the dearth of victualls, and at such a stay as it had need of, be∣ing restored by peace, was neuerthelesse badly welcomed, when men vnderstood the particularities thereof, many blaming that Councell for hauing bought peace at so deere a rate, by the giuing away of so goodly a portion of their state and so great a somme ofmoney, wherewith they might haue beene still able for a time to haue maintained the war: others did taxe the Ambassadors ignorance, or to much feare, who by a precipitate resolution had yeelded at the first to the [ 30] Turkes demands. and had suffered himselfe to be carried away by latest remedies, reserued for the safety of most desperate matters. But these first motions beeing vanished, and the State of the affaires more maturely considered on, with the reasons which had mooued those wise Senators to consent thereunto, all men did rest satisfied and very well contented, praysing their good aduise and wisedome.

Within a while after, the trechery of certaine perfidious persons was disco ue∣red,* 1.1281 wherby the intention and honor of the Ambassador Badoario was preserued. The traitors were Constantine and Nicholao Cauazzo of the order of Cittizens, who entring into the Councell of Tenn and into that of the Preguais in quallity [ 40] of Secretaries, receiuing pension of the French King did accquaint him with the affaires of greatest importance of the Common-wealth: with them Maffeo L•…•…one, of the order of Senators, was ioyned, who by reason of his place had ac∣cesse into both of the Councells: besides Augustino Abondio, and Francisco Vale∣rio had a hand in that trechery. These men being discouered by meanes of cer∣taine letters found in the Cabinet of Abondio, where-in matters of State were mentioned, three of them, to wit, Nicholao Cauazzo, Abondio and Valerio, retired vnto the Pallace of the French Ambassador; as vnto a place of franchise.

This retreat of theirs hauing caused the Senate to thinke very badly of [ 50] them, the officers were forth-with sent to apprehend them, where somme resistance beeing made, they were enforced for to bring a small Barke thi∣ther,* 1.1282 with two great peeces of Ordnance in it to spoile and batter the

house, where-vpon the traitors were deliuered to them, and being committed into the hands of the officers of Iustice, and their processe made, they were hanged in* 1.1283 the market place of Saint Marke. Constantine Cauazzo and Maffeo Leone, leauing the Citty betimes, had leasure to escape to some place of safety: They were pro∣claimed thorrow the Citty three seuerall daies, with promise of a good summe of mony to any that could take them aliue or dead.

The King seemed to be much displeased, for the violence offered to the Am∣bassadors* 1.1284 lodging, so as for certaine moneths space he denied audience to Giouan Antonio Veniero Ambassador to the Signory, vntill that one day being at the Campe before Perpignan, and being desirous to here newes from Constantino∣ple, [ 10] he called for him, and complained (but very modestly as though, he were halfe reconciled) for that his Ambassadors house had beene forced, vsing these speeches* 1.1285 among others, what would you haue said, if the like had beene done vnto you? Venier made this ready answer. If God should send into my house, and vnder my power, a traitor to your Maiesty, I my selfe would lay hands on him, and deliuer him vnto you, being wel assured if I should doe otherwise, that the Signory would sharpely reprehend me.

During the negociation of the treaty of peace, albeit that the Generall Moce∣niga was abroad with a great fleet of Gallies, yet neuer-the-lesse hee executed no warlike exploit, for feare least he should hinder the agreement, but onely sailed [ 20] vp and downe, entertayning the time, and hauing intelligence that Dragut lay neere to the Isle of Zante with great numbers of Fusts, and other vessels belong∣ing to Pirats and robbed all those that hee met with, hee sayled thither-ward to meete and fight with him; But he hauing a farre off descried our Gallies, and ha∣uing a faire wind, tooke another way and escaped, and after▪wards not daring any more to returne into those seas, he went into the West, where hee was taken by Ianetin Doria, with eight of his vessells.

Now after the conclusion of the peace, the Generall before he would goe to* 1.1286 Dalmatia to disarme the fleet, went to Naples of Romagnia, and Maluesia, to ac∣quaint those people with the successe of the businesse concluded at Constantino∣ple, [ 30] and the Senates resolution, to quit those townes to the Turke. It is not to be imagined how greeuous these newes were to the people, being as loth to tarry there as to go from thence: For to liue vnder the Turkish tyranny, seemed a very hard matter vnto them: To depart thence like-wise, and for euer to abandon their country, goods, houses and sepulchers, was a greefe almost intollerable.

The Generall then to comfort them, (the whole people of Naples, being as∣sembled in the market place) spake to them in this manner.

The fatherly loue wherewith the Common-wealth hath imbraced and receaued* 1.1287 you from the beginning vnder her rule and protection, and then gently gouerned you for a long time, may very easily perswade you, that the same which I am now [ 40] enioyned to deliuer vnto you, (which perhaps yee already know) how that this Citty and Maluesia your neighbour, are by an agreement made at Constantino∣ple, to be deliuered to Soliman, hath beene done rather vpon extreame necessity, then by any free or voluntary will. Diuers things may make you see how deerely the Republike hath euer loued you, and especially in these last warres, in which for your releefe it hath readily exposed part of her forces to great dangers: it hath furnished you with mony, soldiers and victualls, for feare least yee should fall into the enemies power, who with barbarous cruelty would haue bathed their hands in your blood, (as they threatened to doe) and made this Citty desolate: hath in aword, not to come to this last point to leaue her deere and welbeloued [ 50] subiects, vnder a tyrants power, made great prouisions of Armes, beene at ex∣cessiue expences, and at last, vndergone for a time, the insupportable burthen of warre. But what greater signe of loue, can the Common▪welth shew vnto yee in this present affliction, then to promise, (as it doth) vnto al those who are willing

to depart, to giue them another fit dwelling place wherein they may safely liue vnder her protection, and to helpe, fauour and nourish them. The ancient Sages said, how that the same place may be truly termed a mans Countrey, where hee liueth well: but what better thing is there, or more to be desired, then to liue vn∣der the moderate gouernment of a good Prince? yee shall remaine vnder the go∣uernement of the Common wealth, wee will find yee out a dwelling place in an other Countrey, where yee may liue, if not so commodiously as heere, at least∣wise more safely, and free from the continuall dangers and alarmes of the Turks, to which I may truly say that yee were dayly exposed. Diuers nations, their numbers waxing ouer great at home, haue of their owne free-will departed from [ 10] their natiue Cuntrey, haue followed fortune, seeking by armes for new and vn∣certaine habitations. In miseries and calamities to haue a certaine and assured refuge carrieth with it such a comfort, as a man doeth o•…•…ten-times remember things past with greater contentation. Without all doubt our cheifest desire hath beene, to haue still liued at peace, not to haue had the enemies to come and beseege this Citty, not to haue purposed to take it by force, or if this should happen, to haue had greater forces to resist and repulse their attempts. But se∣ing neither the one or other was in our power or yours, what other thing is ther now to be done in this State that we stand, but for vs to performe the duty of a good Prince, Father and Pastor of his people, to defend, vnder our safeguard and [ 20] protection, your persons, seeing that we cannot preserue, and beare from hence the houses and walls of this Citty; and for you, to comfort your selues with the loue of your Prince, to fit your selues to time, and to make vse of necessity: your persons shall be preserued, your posterity shall encrease, and of you, beeing va∣liant fathers, shall be borne generous Children: who knoweth but that some of them may one day reuenge your wronges? so great is the change of humaine affaires, whereunto the greatest Empiers are no lesse subiect then the meanest things on earth. It is certaine that the Common-wealth will euer retaine the same will and desire to take armes against these enemies, so soone as it shall per∣ceiue [ 30] the Christian Princes so well vnited together, as it may hope for som com∣modity thereby, and bee able to doe some notable seruice to Christendome. Therefore as it is necessary, so is it great discretion, and a gallant resolution to seeke to liue in safety, and still hope for better and better.

Whilest the Generall did thus comfort them, all men did shed warme teares, being no lesse moued by loue, then by greefe and sorrow.

The Generall after-wards did make the same remonstrance to those of Malue∣sia, whereby the poore people beginning by little and little to bee resolued, the* 1.1288 greatest number of them prepared for their departure, carrying with them their best and deerest wealth: And so within a while after, in the moneth of Nouem∣ber [ 40] the treaty of peace beeing confirmed and ratified, the Prouidator Contaren came thither with twenty Gallies and diuers other Vessells of all sorts, in which hauing imbarked the artillery, munitions, soldiers, & those inhabitants who were willing to depart, with their bagage, consigned, (as it was decreed) those two townes into the hands of Cassin Bascha of Morea, who came thither with smale forces.

All matters being in this sort pacified, the Generall and the Prouidator did dis∣arme, leauing only abroad the ordinary number of Gallies for the gard of the Gulph. But so soone as the Prouidator Contaren came to Venice, he was called into question by Petro Moceniga, Auogator for the common-wealth, to answer (according to the Senates decree made three yeares before) for that which hee [ 50] had done in Puglia when he sanke the Turkish Gally; but the matter being de∣bated in Senate, and diuers Senators defending Contarens cause, the Comman∣dement of the Auogatore was declared to bee of none effect, and Contaren was wholy acquitted, in regard of the worthinesse of his good seruices done, during

the time of that warre. No other thing worthy of Memory hapned during this yeare 1540. which was made notable by the peace concluded with the Turkes, which continued for the space of thirty yeares.

The end of the third Booke of the sixth Decade.

[ 10]

The Contents of the fourth Booke of the sixth Decade.

[ 20]

THE occasion of the warre of Hungary. Soliman determi∣neth to make warre in Austria. The French king resolueth to make vse of the Turkish forces against the Emperor who had broken promise with him. The Imperialls doe murther Rin∣con and Fregosa going in Ambassage from the most Chris∣tian king to Soliman. The Emperor granteth the Interim in Germany.

The Senate deny the Pope the holding of a Councel at Vincenza. The Accord be∣twixt the Turke and the Venetians is confirmed. The Venetians are disconten∣ted [ 30] because there was not a particular Duke of Milan. An Enterùiew betwixt the Pope. and Emperor at Luca. The French King being incensed against the Emperor doth at one time prepare three armies against him. Maran is taken from Ferdinand. A league betwixt the Emperor and Henry King of England against the French King. Barbaros•…•…a with his Army aideth the French King. Enteruiew betwixt the Pope and the Emperour at Basset. The Turkish Army in Hungary. Maran by agreement remayneth to the Venetians. The English men take Boloin. Peace betwixt the Emperor [ 40] and the French King. Trruce graunted betwixt the Emperor and Ferdinand on the one side, and Soliman on the other. The Pope giueth Parma and Pla∣centia in title of Dutchy to Petro Lodouico. And lastly the great contentions betwixt the Emperor and the French King, which were the causes of the quiet of Italy.

[ 50]

[ 10] The fourth Booke of the sixt Decade of the History of Uenice.

PEACE being in this manner concluded betixt Soliman and the Venetians (as hath beene said) and the Venetians hauing else∣where no warre with any Christian Princes, they did hope after so many toyles and trauaills of warre, to see an age full of peace [ 20] and felicity. For Soliman made shew, that hee was disposed to make a generall truce for a long time with the Princes of Chris∣tendome. Wherein the French Ambassador did much good, who assured them that he held the to •…•…all resolution thereof in his owne hand, and that which made them to giue more credit to his speeches, was because though the fleet were rea∣dy to set saile, yet Barbarossa his iourney was held doubtfull, and beside, no prepa∣ration* 1.1289 at all for a land army was made, which might giue cause of suspition of any enterprize.

The Emperor on the other side and the French King had confirmed the truce, formerly made at Nice, and shewed to one another sundry good offices of loue [ 30] and reconciliation: For whilest the Emperor stayed in France in his iourney to∣wards Flanders, hee remained for a time with the King, which gaue hope to all men that those Princes hauing trodden all hatred and rancour vnder their feet did determine to liue in peace and quiet. But the new accidents which did hap∣pen (as humane affaires are subiect to change) did alter the State of things, and altogether breake of all hope of peace.

For Iohn King of Hungary beeing deceased, and leauing a young Child by his wife Is•…•…bell, daughter to Sigismond King of Poland, and Perdinand King of the Romanes; saying that the Realme belonged vnto him and not to the child, by* 1.1290 vertue of a late agreement made with that King, made hast to get it by armes, [ 40] and hauing to that end raised great numbers of Soldiers, he entred, vnlookt for, into the Kingdome, and seazed on Alba Regalis, Visgrade, Peste, and other townes of Hungary, and at the same time he sent Ieronimo Alasco to Constan∣tinople to treat with Soliman that hee might obtaine the Kingdome after the same manner as King Iohn had held it: but the Queene, widdow to King Iohn, had likewise sent thither, procuring by meanes of a sollemne Ambassade of the cheifest Barons of the Kingdome, the aid and succor of the Turkish army to keep the Kingdome for hir Sonne, which by the selfe same armes had beene main∣tained* 1.1291 for the Father. Soliman seemed to bee greatly displeased therewith, and by so much more, as he supposed to haue receiued a double iniury from Ferdi∣nand, [ 50] for enuading a state recommended vnto him, and vnder his protection, and for crauing thatby his Ambassador which he went about to take by force. Wher∣with being greatly incensed, he did not only cast from him that good inclination which he seemed to beare to peace and concord, but for the reuenging of this

iniury determined to assaile Ferdinand with great forces both by Sea and Land, and at the same time to keepe the Emperor so busied as he should not be able to helpe his brother: Therefore hauing reuoked that which hee had treated with Rincon the French Ambassador concerning the truce, hee sent him backe to his King to tell him that hee had changed his mind, resoluing altogether vpon warre.

The troubles of Flanders were in the meane time appeazed, the Emperor ha∣uing* 1.1292 rigoro•…•…sly punished the Gantois for their rebellion, to giue feare and terror to others. This being done sooner then was expected, was cause, that the foun∣dations of peace betwixt him and the French King were not surely laid, and fin∣ding [ 10] * 1.1293 himselfe freed of that let which hindred him, hee resolued in no sort to quit the Dutchy of Milan. On the other side, Solimans hatred to the house of Austria, did augment the French Kings courrage, hoping to make vse of his mighty aide, and thereby to reuenge the wrong which he had supposed he had done to him by contemning his friendship.

Rincon then being come to Venice did acquaint the Senate particularly with all what-so-euer had beene done, and of the Turkes great warlike preparations, the which he presumed to be able to dispose of at his Kings pleasure, and crauing after-wards a conuoy for his safe passage into France, Mercurio Bue was com∣manded to attend vpon him with his company of light horse as farre as the con∣fines [ 20] of their State. And because there were but three moneths limited him for his returne to the Port of the great Lord, the King hauing speedily dispatched him, and returning onward on his way to Venice, from thence to passe to Constantinople, hee was neere to Pauia, vpon the riuer of Po, assailed, taken, and murthered, together with Caesar Fregosa, by certaine Spanish foot∣men, and by the commandement (as it was thought) of the Marquis of Guasto.

This deed, did more then can be imagined incense the French King, for that du∣ring the truce they had so vilanously slaine his seruants, & that the Emperour not* 1.1294 being satisfied (as he said) to haue deceiued him with words, hauing at first put [ 30] him in hope of peace, and that hee would restore the Dutchy of Milan to him, after-wards to bee so slacke therein, hauing appeased the troubles of Flanders, and besides, to haue iniuried him contrary to the law of Nations, by the treche∣rous murther of his seruants. He complained hereof and caused to be published al a broad that hee would bee reuenged thereof; hee wrot to all Forraine Princes,* 1.1295 giuing them to vnderstand that he had not broken the truce: Then he did parti∣cularly aduertize Soliman thereof, to whome he sent Captaine Polin, enioyning him to goe first to Venice, to feele how they stood affected to the Emperor, and to acquaint them with his iust occasion to take armes for the reuenge of such an∣iniury, and after-wards, to offer vnto them for his owne part what-so euer hee [ 40] could doe for them at Constantinople, by imploying his credit and authority so long as he should continue there in quality of Ambassador.

Polin hauing executed his commission, and crauing of the Senate that hee might passe on safely, a Gallie was giuen him for his transportation to Raguza.

The Emperor at the same time was in Germany, where at Ratisbon hee held a Diet concerning matters of Religion, wherein nothing beeing concluded he graunted to the Protestants an interim, so as euery man might vse the same ce∣remonies which before hee had done; and vpon report of the Turkes great warlike preparations, who were already come into hungary (Soliman being there [ 50] in person) a here they had defeated Guillan of Rocandolf, Lieutenant Generall to King Ferdinand, perceiuing that in regard of his own honour, being in Germany and so neere a neighbour to that defeate, all men expected when he would march against the Trukish forces; he, the better to free him-selfe from it, determined to

vndertake the enter prize of Argier, thinking it to bee easier then that against the great Turke, to the great amazement of all men which did see him to at∣tempt an enterprize nothing so honorable as the other: but hee did it vpon hope that passing along by Italy he might take the King vnprouided, and make some attempt vpon him, desiring rather to leaue his owne patrimony in prey then to omit any occasion to be reuenged on the King, whom he knew he had greatly wronged by the murther of his Ambassadors: but he found that the Lord of Langey, Leiutenant fot the King in Piedmont, had dilligently prouided for all matters. Such were the State of affaires and such were the deseignes of Princes concerning Peace and warre. The Venetians thought it fit in those stirrs [ 10] to beare them-selues with great consideration and vigilancy, and to keepe them∣selues neuters, and free from all danger of beeing offended. They very well knew how important a matter the losse of Hungary was, as well for Christen∣dome, as because hereby the Turke, their common enemy, would grow more mighty. But what hope was there of any happy successe? King Ferdinand was not strong enough of himselfe to resist the Turkish army: the Emperor resolued not to hazard his forces against the Turkes in his brothers defense. Germany, bad∣ly* 1.1296 affected to the house of Austria, would enterprize nothing which might aug∣ment the power and authority thereof▪ and on the other side the widdow Queen Isabell and the King hir sonne, young and without meanes to defend that King∣dome, [ 20] and enforced by necessity not onely to make vse of the Turkish ayd, but wholy to depend vpon them. The Venetians notwithstanding that they knew all this, did neuerthelesse determine to be Spectators of all these miseries, and to auoid all occasions that might cause the Turkes to suspect any sinister affection towards them, beeing not desirous to prouoke them to take armes against the Signoty.

Whilest these affaires were thus carried the Pope entreated the Senate to grant, That according to that which had been concluded at Luca, betwixt him and the Emperor, the Councell might be held at Vincenza, the yeare fol∣lowing 1542. but the Senate supposing that it would greatly hurt them, by rea∣son [ 30] * 1.1297 of the Turkes, made an excuse, saying, that at that time when they had warrs with the Turkes, they could willingly haue granted it, but that now, Soliman would thinke that the Venetians went about to stirre vp the Christian Princes a∣gainst him, and by that meanes they should draw ruine vpon them-selues, for a small and vncertaine hope of a great good: As also because they knew very wel that the cheefe Prelates did intend to make the Christian Princes friends, before that they would assemble the coun•…•…ell. This excuse was strengthened by an ac∣cident newly happened, which gaue suspition that the Venetians stood badly af∣fected to Soliman: it was thus, two Turkish Galeots going from Barbary toward Constantinople, and suspected, by reason that they fled from our fleet, to be Pi∣rates, [ 40] were taken by the Prouidator of the Sea: the greatest nomber of the Turkes were slaine, and all the Christian slaues within them were set at liberty: the Turkes tooke this in bad part, and especially Barbarossa, vnto whom those vessels did belong, who beeing greeuously incensed thereby, threatened to bee re∣uenged.

The Senate speedily excusing the matter, did at last obtaine that their might be a treaty concerning the making of amends for it, and the businesse beeing delay∣ed, and Barbarossa being by time and sundry good offices appeased, the strife was ended by meanes of a summe of money to the content of both parties, the Ve∣netians resoluing to continue their freindship with Soliman who sent Ianusby to [ 50] Venice to cause the Prince and Senate to confirme the agreement made at Con∣stantinople by the Ambassador Badoario, who was likewise enioyned vpon en∣teaty of the French to dispose the Venetians to contract aliance with their King.

The Turkish Ambassador was honorably entertayned, and his demands atten∣tiuely

heard: as concerning the confirmation of the Treaty of peace, he was there∣in speedily satisfied: But to his proposition of fauoring the French they answered, how that they were at peace and friendship with the French King, intending to continue the same: But they they could not as then doe any thing which might enfore them after-wards to take any armes against other Princes: how they were assured that Soliman being a most wise and iust Prince, would like wise allow of their lawful reasons and excuses. This answer being reported to Soliman by Ianus∣bey,* 1.1298 was allowed by him, and vnderstanding by the same man, the Venetians firme desire faithfully to obserue the agreement, he was very glad of it, and seemed to be desirous to performe the like towards them. This is all which passed at that time betwixt Soliman and the Signory of Venice: But as concerning the Christian [ 10] Princes, they dealt with them with no lesse respects, ayming still at this, not to offend any one, nor to fauour any one, not yet to doe any thing contrary to their neutrality. The Venetians for sundry reasons were greatly displeased* 1.1299 with the contention betwixt the Emperor and the French King, they were like∣wise displeased for that the Treaty of placing a new Duke in the State of Milan was broken, a matter so often promised to them, and treated of not long before with the French king at the enteruiew of Paris: and to suffer the Emperor peace∣ably to enioy that state, was nothing else, (as the wisest and discreetest Senators had a long time before foreseen) but to support the Emperors immoderate great∣nes, to the great preiudice of the liberty of Italy, and yet for al that, to depart from [ 20] his confederacy, and to enter into a new war, the conditious of the times, and the Common-wealths necessity would not permit them. They were greeued besides,* 1.1300 for that the Turkes being sollicited by the French against the Emperor, had deter∣mined to march with their army to the hurt of Christendome: yet neuer the-lesse they onely busied them selues, in furnishing their sea townes with soldiors, muni∣tions, victualls, and all other necessaries, in re-enforcing and augmenting their army not medling with the affaires of other men. Each of those Princes did vse meanes to diuert the Senate from the resolution of their neutrallity, by propun∣ding sundry meanes vnto them of new agreements.

The Emperor was ready come into Italy, resoluing to passe into Affricke, not∣with-standing [ 30] the Pope disswaded him from it, setting before him his brothers danger: His Captaines like-wise propounded vnto him the doubtfull euent of the enterprize of Argier, being to attempt it in the Autumnall seasons of the yeare, which is commonly subiect to diuers alterations, and in a place filled with all dis∣commodities. Yet neuer-the-lesse, considering the great forces of the Turkes, and how farre they were able to enter, (which was a pollicy to draw the Venetians to another Treaty by altering the former capitulations) he did propound vnto them a new confederacy for the safety of Italy against the incursions of those Infidels, as∣suring them that the Pope, King Ferdinand his brother, and diuers other Princes should enter into it: But the Senate resoluing no more to enter into those dangers, [ 40] excused it selfe from harkening thervnto, and being more earnestly sollicited, they* 1.1301 wholy refused that proposition, especially when they heard that the Pope had no great inclination there-vnto, by reason of the smale hope he had (being wise and well aduised) to bring that businesse to a fortunate end, as also because he hauing dispoiled Ascanio Colona of all his Estates, by reason that hee had beene rebelli∣ous and disobedient to the Sea Apostolike, would auoide all occasions of restoring them againe vnto him, as hee well perceaued that hee should bee enforced to doe, by making a new league with the Emperor, who for his owne honor could not forsake a man that had so well deserued of him, and that had beene cheefe of his faction in Italy: besides, aiming at an other matter, he was [ 50] desirous to continew in his neutralitiy, to the end that he might obtaine first to haue the state of Milan deliuered into the hands of Octauiano Farnese as Guardi∣an thereof, and to yeeeld to the Emperor and the French King a certaine ho∣mage, til such time as they should find out some more assured meanes of Agree∣ment

wherin he presumed that the Venetians would interpose their authority. The Venetians perceiuing that they proceeded slowely in that businesse, and with small hope, beeing desirous not to giue the Turkes any occasion of suspiti∣on, did abstaine from it, notwithstanding that they were diuers times sollicited by the Emperor, to send their Ambassadors to Luca where the Pope and hee were to meet▪ In all other matters they had neuer failed in their duty to the Em∣peror. They had giuen passage through their state to the Almaine footmen leuied for the iourney of Affrick, and so soone as they vnderstood of his com∣ming into Italy by the way of Trent, they appoynted foure Ambassadors, to weet, Iohn Antonio Veniero, Nicholao Tepulo, Marc Antonio Contaren, and Vin∣cenzo [ 10] Grimani, who entertained him very honorably vpō the Verona territory, and attended vpon him so long as he remained vpon their State, which was for the space of two dayes; for beeing come to Pescara he entered the Mantuan ter∣ritory, from whence afterward, he went to Milan, from thence to Genoa, and then to Luca where hee met with the Pope, with whom hauing made some small abode, he pursued his iourney for the enterprize of Affrick, which succee∣ded badly, as it had beene foretold: for hauing landed his soldiers vppon the sands of Argier, he found more resistance in the Garrison of the Citty then hee did expect, and did besides receiue great hurt by the Arabian horsemen, pro∣cured by the Turks, who comming vpon them with great celerity, and fighting [ 20] in a new and vnusuall manner with our soldiers, did preuent all their deseignes and the businesse beeing drawne forth in length, great harme happened: for their arose so terrible a tempest at Sea, as the ships beeing not able to ride at Ankor, by reason of the force of the wind, som of them were driuen on shoare, and the others to Seaward in the midest of the tempest, So as hauing lost diuers of his vessells, and the residue beeing sore brused and beaten, the Emperor was enforced to giue ouer his enterprize. Diuers men of note dyed in that voyage by diseases and bad ayre, and among others, Marin Iustiniano Ambassador for the Signory, who by the Senates command had still followed the Emperor, and Doctor Nicholao de Ponte, who at that time was gouernour of Vdina, was sent [ 30] in his place During the Emperors iourny, the French King was not at quiet who* 1.1302 being mightily incensed (as hath beene said) against the Emperor, thought on nothing but meanes how to be reuenged of these wrongs which he had offered him: therefore by meanes of his Ambassadors whom he sent to Luca to meet the Pope, he had earnestly entreated his Holinesse to declare the truce made at Nice by his owne meanes and authority to be broken and infringed, by the mur∣ther of Fregosa and Rincon, the better to let all men see the iustice of his cause: But resoluing by all meanes to preuaile by force, he did with greater vehemency reuiue his former conceits to preuent the Emperor by meanes of the Turkes aid and friendship, whereupon he determined to send back Polin to Constan∣tinople [ 40] to treat in particular of the comming of the Army against the Emperor and as he passed along to vse new meanes to draw the Venetians to his party.

Polin then beeing come to Venice from thence to passe to Constantinople,* 1.1303 he with the Bishop of Montpellier, ordinary Ambassador to the King, came in∣to the Councell of the Tenne, according to the vsuall custome of secret audiences, where they discharged their commission from their Prince: Polin. siriuing very much by a long oration to perswade the Senators by a new aliance to embrace the Kings friendship. But all his discourse and goodly reasons could not preuaile with the Senators to make them alter their opinion, or to draw them to any new alliance, thereby to entangle them in a new warre. [ 50] * 1.1304

Therfore that businesse being referred to the Senate their resolution with a gene∣rall consent of them all was like to that of the councel of the Tenne, to giue the lame answer to the French Ambassadors as was made to Ianusby: How that the Common wealth did deerely account of the French Kings friendship, the which

for their parts they would euer constantly and inuiolably maintaine: yet neuer∣the▪lesse; they determined to liue at peace wi•…•…h other Princes, & not to enterprize any thing which might procure war betwixt them. Polin after this answere being inbarked in the Venetian Gallies sailed into Albania, and from thence pursued his iourny towards Constantinople, with a certaine assurance to cause the Turkish army to march whither he would desire: but the deseignes of the French tooke none effect for that yeare, either because it was already to far spent to make great preparations, and to execute all at one time, or else because Soliman had setled all his thoughts vpon the enterprize of Hungary, making account to goe thither in person with a farre greater army. The French King in the meane time resoluing [ 10] on warre had raised three armies, the one conducted by my Lord the Daulphin went to beseege Perpignan, the other commanded by my Lord the Duke of Or∣leance* 1.1305 marched to enuade the French County and Luxembourg: the third grea∣ter then any of the rest, by reason of the supplies of the Duke of Cleaues, gouer∣ned by the Duke of Vendosme Prince of the blood of France, entred Flanders by the country of Artois. But all these forces did by the report of such great proui∣sions more am aze then hurt the Emperor: because that the Daulphin finding Perpignan to be suffitiently fortified by the Duke of Alua, returned without any notable exploit, the Duke of Orleans on the other side, did but scoure and wast the country: Wherevpon the French King perceiuing all his deseigns were to no [ 20] purpose, did greatly taxe Soliman and the Venetians because they had not taken Armes to fauour his party whilest the Emperor was busied else-where.

The King being thus discontented, was the more incensed against the Veneti∣ans* 1.1306 thorow the bad offices of the Bishop of Montpellier his Ambassador, so as Po∣lin being informed of his Maisters discontent, did openly in all places oppose him∣selfe against the Venetians affaires, scandalizing the Baily and the Common∣wealth: and because he hoped to haue the Turkish army the yeare following, at his kings deuotion, he said, that it being once ready, he would make the Venetians feele, to their losse, what great force his Kings pursuts and authority had against them. The cause of the kings discontentment proceeded from that which is aboue [ 30] mentioned, for that they went armed and in troupes to the house of the French Ambassador, to take the three traytors that had retired them-selues thither, who after som resistance being deliuered ouer into the hands of iustice, were forthwith executed: whereof, the Ambassador hauing aduertized the King otherwise then* 1.1307 the matter was handled, his maiesty shewed both by word and action to be highly displeased with the Venetians: but afterwards hauing truly vnderstood their man∣ner of proceeding therein, hee sent the Prothonotary Monluc to Venice, to excuse him, if by meanes of a false report hee had sinisterly conceiued of the Common∣wealths friendships, protesting vnto them that he would neuer more remember any thing that was past, but esteeme them as his good and trusty friends: within [ 40] a while after he caused the same Prothonotary to return to Venice (who by his com∣mandement went to Rome, to acquaint the Pope there-with) to remaine there as ordinary Ambassador, in the Bishoppe of Montpelliers place, who was called home at their entreaty & to please them. Another accident happened at the same time which did greatly troble the Common-wealth as well for it owne particular interest, as for the respect to other Princes which was the surprising of the towne of Maran vpon King Ferdinand, vnto whome it had bin giuen by their last agree∣ment.* 1.1308 Bertrand de Sacchia a subiect to the Venetians hauing of his owne proper motion seazed on Maran, perceiuing himselfe not strong enough to keepe it cal∣led Petro Strozzi to his aid who was banished from Florence, who speedily came [ 50] thither with a great troope of soldiers assembled in hast, and hauing entred it, did forthwith erect the French kings bane•…•…, saying that they held it for the king, thret∣ning those of the town to deliuer it ouer to the Turkes, if they were not speedily seconded by som Prince or other, rather then to returne it into the hands of Ferdi∣nand. That, as the begining to a great war was very troublesome to the Venetians.

For on the one side they considered how that Ferdinand might suspect that they were consen•…•…ing therevnto, the cheefe Au•…•…hor of that trouble being one of their subiects: on the other, they knew not what to thinke, in regard those that had sea∣zed on it did shield themselues vnder the name and authority of the French King,* 1.1309 being ignorant of his meaning therein: But that which did most trouble them, was their feare least that towne should bee deliuered to the Turkes, it being but foure and twenty miles of from Venice, wher being once setled they might hower∣ly at their pleasure make incursions vpon the land, by meanes of the lake which is a very neere neighbour to it.

The Senate then determining speedily to prouide for those inconueniences, [ 10] caused proclamations to be made: That none of their subiects on paine of bodily punishment, should carry victualls, or other releefe to those of Maran: They did besides, commit to safe and sure keeping, the father and wife of Sacchia who were at Vdina, that they might haue in their power, a sufficient pawne to bridle his au∣datious rashnesse: yet neuer-the-lesse they did still entertaine those of Maran, with faire and gentle speeches, putting them in hope to end all matters to their content, for feare least Ferdinand comming with a great Army, and they dis∣paring (without aide) of being able to resist him, should receiue a Turkish gar∣rison into the towne. The Venetians in this diuersity of suspitions resoluing not to medle therein, but onely so farre forth as necessity should enforce them, did [ 20] abstaine from doing any thing, that might incense the Princes interessed in that businesse.

Vpon these newes Ferdinand sent the Bishoppe of Trent to Venice to request the Senate to aid him with vessells for the recouery of Maran, concealing that which concerned the French King: The Senate answered, that it was very desi∣rous,* 1.1310 as a louer of iustice and equity, that Ferdinand should recouer Maran which had beene so trecherously snatcht from him, and therefore it was ready to giue passage to his troupes and to furnish them with victualls: yet neuer-the-lesse, they were in hope that all matters would bee ended in friendly sort. And questio∣ning with the French Ambassador there-vpon, he answered that the King would [ 30] no otherwise dispose of Maran, then should stand with the Senates good liking,* 1.1311 and therefore he desired to know their meaning therein: The same Senate replied that his King was so discreet, as he needed no other mens councell; but that their desire was to proceed by such meanes as might preserue vnion and concord.

During these Treaties time ran on, and those which continued in Maran (Sac∣chia hauing beene driuen from thence by his owne fellowes, who going forth of the gates, to accompany the German gouernors wife, who went to get mony to pay their ransome, returning backe, was shut forth) waxing more bold and in∣solent began to build a Fort at the Hauen of Lignare, fiue miles of from Maran,* 1.1312 that they might haue a safe place of retreat, when they should come forth, [ 40] (as they oftentimes did) to surprize and rob such vessels as passed along that way. The Venetians thinking it a disgrace to suffer a deed of so great consequence did sodenly resolue to beate it downe and ruine it: The charge thereof was committed to Bernardo Sagreda, who speedily and fortunately executed it. This resolution made them to obtaine that certaine Imperiall gallies, sent for the recouery of Ma∣ran, did not enter into the Gulphe: for the French King being aduertized of their going thither prepared other some to goe to the same place, to the releefe of Ma∣ran, which would haue beene a great preiudice to the Venetians to haue seene both those fleets in their Gulph, but both the one and the other, at the Senats en∣treaty, refrained from comming thither. [ 50]

The affaires of Maran remayning thus doubtfull, the French King and the king of Romans, had in the meane time begun to treat of an agreement about that towne, in which new difficulties daily arising, Storssi and those within Maran, see∣med desirous to deliuer vp that Fort rather to the Signory of Venice then to any

other Prince whatsoeuer, protesting that vnlesse they did speedily agree amongst themselues, they would treat and deale with the Turkes.

Ferdinand although he truly knew the Venetians int•…•…grity, or else beeing desi∣rous to dissemble the suspition which he had conceiued, knowing that their friend∣ship and aide might greatly auaile him in that businesse, did choose two Commis∣sioners to end the controuersie, heretofore often mentioned, concerning the in∣telligence and obseruation of the treaty of Trent: They came to Venice: Fran∣cesco* 1.1313 Contaren, and Francesco Sanuto, chosen in former time for the same businesse, were deputed by the Senate therevnto, who conferring together, and with them the Emperors Ambassador as a louing vmpier, matters seemed to be brought to [ 10] a good passe, and in a manner to an agreement, if they could haue found meanes to haue composed the controuersie, about the townes of Belgrad and Castel-no∣uo, engaged heretofore with other castles by the Emperours of the house of Au∣stria to the Duke of Saxony, whereon, and vpon the quality of the engagement hauing a long time insisted, the whole businesse remained vnresolued on.

This assembly was broken off by reason of the rumors spred abroad at the be∣ginning* 1.1314 of the yeere 1543. of the great prouisions for warre made in sundry pla∣ces, and chiefly at Constantinople, to enuade Hungary and Austria, and to scoure* 1.1315 all the sea-coasts belonging to the Emperour. The French King hoping by meanes of this army, raised in his behalfe, and at his entreaty, to breake the Empe∣rors [ 20] designes and forces, had likewise raised a great army as well of his owne sub∣iects as of Swisses, to vphold the Duke of Cleues rebellion and to assaile the Emperor in diuers and sundry places: who on the other side determining to re∣uenge the wrongs and iniuries receiued from the French, and especially to cha∣stise (as he said) the audaciousnesse of the Duke of Cleues a feudatary of the Em∣pire, for taking armes with his enemies against him, did assemble the Dyet of Prin∣ces and free townes according to the custome of the country, where hee procu∣red them to make warre on the French King, and the Duke of Cleues, at the com∣mon charge of all Germany: and for the augmenting of his forces, he resolued to ally himselfe with Henry King of England, notwithstanding that the same King [ 30] * 1.1316 had repudiated his Aunt Queene Katherine, and shaken off the yoake of the Ro∣mish Catholike Church, that they might both of them together make warre vp∣on France.

King Henry did easily agree to the Emperors motion, beeing distasted of the French King, for fauoring Iames King of Scots his enemy.

The Pope in the meane time and the Venetians did still continue in their neu∣trallity, meaning as much as in them lay to maintaine the peace of Italy. The Pope neuerthelesse being for sundry reasons displeased with the Emperor, made suite to the Venetians to contract a more strict alliance together for their com∣mon* 1.1317 safety, propounding at that time termes tending wholly to peace, and not to [ 40] depart, but vpon constraint, from their neutrallity, but determining neuerthelesse, as it was perceiued by sundry signes, to draw the Republike afterwards to some new confederacy with the French King.

The Senate continuing the accustomed answers, and telling the Pope how that there was not any cause to mooue them to renue their alliance, which might* 1.1318 (not without suspition to Princes) rather hasten then preuent the mischiefe to come, made an excuse, saying, that it could not make any new agreement with any one, for feare least the Emperour would be incensed against them, who had so often sought vnto them for new confederacy, to the which they had neuer consented. But they were most of all troubled to see the Turkish army to [ 50] depart from Constantinople, whereof men spake diuersly; notwithstanding that the Turkes did promise them in no sort to meddle with any thing which did be∣long to their Common-wealth, and that captaine Polin, who was to goe along with it, had assured them of the like, who by his Kings commandment had changed

his minde. Yet the Senate not relying ouer much on all these promises, deter∣mined likewise to arme the number of three score Gallies, and to appoint a Ge∣nerall ouer them, which was Stefano Tepulo, a man very famous for his rare ver∣tues and deserts: whereof they forthwith aduertized all Princes, to the end that* 1.1319 the making ready of their fleet, might not make them to suspect that they had any sinister meaning; saying that the Republike had armed certaine Gallies for the defense of their owne subiects, and for the gard of their sea-coasts: and they commanded their Generall to visit the Islands vnder their dominion, and all their forts vpon the sea, to giue order and prouide for all things necessary, with expresse charge to auoide all occasions that might giue the Turkes any cause of distrusting [ 10] their friendship towards them: whereinto they very well knew that Doria would haue oftentimes cunningly drawne them.

The Turkish nauall army in the meane time consisting of sixe score saile de∣parted from Constantinople vnder the command of Cariadine Barbarossa, cap∣taine Polin going along with him, and comming to Negrepont where it made some stay to take in souldiers and other necessaries, it sailed to the Hauen of Fi∣gara, and from thence directed their course towards the West, and hauing pas∣sed the Far of Messina, came neere to Calabria, where landing certaine of his troupes, he tooke the city of Regio, and after he had spoiled it and scoured the country round about (the castle still holding out) he did re-embarke his peo∣ple, [ 20] * 1.1320 and held on his course towards France, and by the way, he tooke in water at the Isle of Ponze, and next at Ostia vpon the Riuer Tiber, whereby Rome was in alarme, but Polin did by letters assure the Gouernor of the towne, that no harme should bee done to any one vpon the coast, then hoysing ankors, and still coasting along the Riuers of Tuscany and Genoa, he arriued in the Hauen of Tolon, where finding two French Gallies, hee was by them conducted to∣wards* 1.1321 Marseilles, whither the Kings other foure and twenty Gallies came.

Barbarossa went on shore where hee was magnificently entertained in the city together with great numbers of Ianissaries, Polin riding post to finde the King and to receiue his commandements, whom Barbarossa was enioyned whol∣ly [ 30] to obey, did speedily returne to the army, which being encreased by sixteene French Gallies, and certaine shippes wherein were sixe thousand foote-men, hee departed from Marseilles and sailed with a faire winde to the hauen of Villa∣franca to beseege the city of Nice which the Duke of Sauoy then possessed, which had euer belonged to the crowne of France.

The Artillery and souldiers beeing landed, the City for certaine daies was* 1.1322 battered, whereby it was enforced to yeeld without being sacked: but the Marquis of Guasto hauing victualled the castle, and Barbarossa being diswaded from make∣ing any longer aboade there, Autumne being very farre spent raised his campe and returned with his whole fleete to the hauen of Marseilles. [ 40]

Now the Venetian fleete beeing truely aduertized what course the Turkes held, and how that Ianetin Doria was gonne into the Leuant, did entertaine time in the Gulphe, the Generall thinking it more safe and proffitable to pro∣uide for that which concerned themselues, and to auoide occasion of meeting with the others, that he might take away all suspition of being desirous to helpe or hinder their deseignes.

The Emperor at the same time resoluing to goe into Germany to stirre vp that country against the French King, hauing first caused the Estates of Spaine to accept the Prince Don Philip his sonne for their King, came to Barcelona where finding Doria with forty Gallies and certaine ships he imbarked himselfe [ 50] with the Spanish fantery, and came to Genoa. Vpon the report of his arri∣uall in Italy, the Venetians chose foure Ambassadours, to wit, Carlo Morosin,* 1.1323 Gabriele Veniero, Lodouico Faliere, and Vittor Grimany, to meet him as he passed through their State and to entertaine him by the way.

The Pope in the meane time hauing promised other matters to himselfe, see∣ing that the confederacy propounded to the Venetians had taken none effect, resolued to talke with the Emperor, determining first, better to assure his owne affaires, as well for temporall matters as for Religion, and his Pontificall dignity* 1.1324 in the councell which was to be held at Trent a city in Germany: and next, mea∣ning once more to try if the Emperour would quit the Dutchy of Milan to Octa∣uio Farneze for a certaine summe of money, which he perceiued the Emperour stood in great need of, by reason of the warres he had in hand: but concealing for that time those his secret deseignes, made shew, that the cause which mooued him as the common father and head of Christendome to embrace the Emperor [ 10] passing along so neere him, was to exhort him to peace with Christians, and to warre against the Infidels; and to try if his presence in that businesse would be of more force then his exhortations made by his Legats sent to the Emperor into Germany, and into France to the most Christian King.

Now the Pope hauing acquainted the Venetians with his departure from Rome and going to Bolognia, alleadged no other reason of his iourney then the former, wholly concealing the negociating concerning the Dutchy of Milan, thereby to feele if he could discouer any thing from them concerning it, for, on the one side he knew that the same treaty was pleasing vnto them, but on the other, it behoued them to proceed therein very respectiuely in regard of the aboue mentioned mat∣ters. [ 20] The Senate continuing the old resolution not to meddle with these nego∣ciations, did vnfeignedly commend the Popes good and holy meaning, with his resolution in so honest and important a businesse for the common good of all Christendome, not passing on any further to any other consideration.

The Pope seeming to bee greatly desirous of that enteruiew did not cease to pursue it, notwithstanding that hee was alone in that negociation, and that the Emperour alleadged diuers difficulties and lets, who making no great account of him, made shew that he did not much affect him, either because hee was distasted* 1.1325 of him, the Pope hauing not openly shewed himselfe his friend as he ought to haue done by reason of the honour done by the Emperor to him and his house, [ 30] hauing by the marriage of his daughter preferred it to so many other noble alli∣ances: or else because he did suspect the truth of the matter, how that the Pope would recommence his suite, that the Dutchy of Milan might be made ouer to Octauio Farneze, the which he resolued not to quit to any man whatsoeuer: and therefore he was desirous to eschew all occasions of discontenting the Pope, and of prouoking him to embrace the French Kings friendship, by refusing his demand.

But the Pope supposing it would greatly blemish his greatnesse and dignity, if he should let the Emperour passe thorough Italy without seeing him, had to that end sent, first, Petro Lodouico his sonne to Genoa, and then the Cardinall Farneze [ 40] his Nephew, to entreate him that the enteruiew might be at Bolognia, and vpon his Maiesties excuse that he was not willing to come so farre backe and to delay his iourney, he determined to come farther forward euen to Busset, where it was* 1.1326 concluded they should see one an other, which was a towne very discommodious and smally frequented belonging to the Palauicins: but this enteruiew had no better successe then all men expected, nothing being there concluded, either for the Churches seruice or the particular profit of the Farnezes. For the Emperor continued his resolution to make warre vpon the French King, and the Duke of Cleues, and as for Milan, because he would not flatly deny it, hee told him that he could not dispose of that State, vntill he had acquainted the Princes of the Em∣pire [ 50] therewith, whereby he might easily perc•…•…iue that he did meane to appropri∣ate it to himselfe.

The enteruiew being dissolued which onely lasted three daies, the Emperour pursuing his iourney entred vpon the Venetians State, where the foure aboue

mentioned Ambassadors met with him, and did honourably entertaine him, fur∣nishing him with whatsoeuer he needed either for his owne person or his house∣hold, so long as he continued vpon their territories, wayting vpon him as farre as the confines of Trent, making diuers offers vnto him in generall in the name of the Common wealth, not mentioning any negociation till they were ready to take their leaues of him, and then they besought him to be a meanes to his brother for a dispatch concerning the agreement of Trent which they had ta∣ken vpon them. From Trent the Emperour went to Vuormes, and from thence to Spire, to be nerer to that which he had determined to doe, hauing still resident with him Daniele Bouricci Secretary to the Common-wealth, the Ambassador [ 10] de Pont remayning sicke at Trent, who being returned to Venice for the recouery of his health, Bernardo Nouagera was chosen in his stead.

Warre was at the same time much kindled in Hungary whither Soliman be∣ing* 1.1327 come in person with a mighty army (hauing first scoured and wasted the country) had beseeged the city of Strigonium, from whence he sent an Ambas∣sador to Venice to acquaint the Senat with his iourney and deseignes, and also there to vnderstand newes of his fleet, which at that time lay in the hauen of Vil∣lafranca at the enterprize of Nice, where of the Senate aduertized him, and withal* 1.1328 did infinitely thanke him for the honor he did them by acquainting them with his actions and deseignes. This demonstration of friendship from the Turkes did [ 20] serue them for two purposes, first to continue peace betwixt them, and next, to encrease their reputation with other men. Therefore Soliman hauing againe sent an other Ambassador to Venice to aduertize them of his progression in Hungary, the Senate resolued in reciprocall manner to render him the like de∣monstration of honour and friendship, by sending an Ambassadour to him. This charge was committed to Stefano Tepulo (hee hauing giuen ouer the place of Generall) who at the spring was to goe to Constantinople to Soliman (who was come thither from Hungary) to reioyce with him in the Common-wealths name for his fortunate successe, and to make shew at his Porte of a corresponden∣cy of loue and frindship. [ 30]

The affaires of Maran were not yet appeased, but on the contrary much more enkindled, as well in regard of the French, who did meane to keepe and defend it, as for the Almaines who determined to haue it by force: so as besides foure hun∣dred* 1.1329 foot-men which the Lord of Senei brought thither, the French King sent great troupes of horse and foot: on the other side the King of Romaiues hauing caused certaine companies of Lansequenets to passe the mounts at Pontieba, vn∣der the command of Iohn Baptista Sauella, did besides assemble all the souldiers on the neerest places of his Dominions to make a bodie of an army, and to beseege it. The Senate had giuen free passage through their State both to the one and other, to shew that they had no hand in that businesse: they were neuerthelesse [ 40] displeased for that one Fust and two Brigantins had beene armed at Trieste which entring into the Hauen of Dignana had begunne streightly to shut in those of Maran on the sea side: wherevpon, to suffer them to stay their, besides the drawing of many others thither, would seeme greatly to preiudice the Re∣publikes claime to that Hauen, and shew some partiality, by suffering them to of∣fend Maran from that place: the which they determyning not to suffer, because they would proceed modestly therein, did entreate Ferdinand and the Empe∣rour likewise to cause those armed vessels to depart forth of the Hauen, sending thither at the same time an armed galley to hinder their incursions, till such time as they should receiue an answere. [ 50]

During these treaties, Iohn Francisco de Pacis a Florentine came to Venice, to* 1.1330 offer vnto the Senate in Strossi his name the fort of Maran for some honest re∣compence, protesting that vpon their refusall, he should be enforced to negoci∣ate with some other great Prince, whom he knew would gladly accept it: Strossi

resoluing in no sort to render it to Ferdinand, but rather to get some great summe of money for it, by contracting with the Turke: that the French King had left Maran to bee disposed of at Strossi his pleasure, to make his profit there∣of, in recompence of the good seruices done by him to the crowne of France.

The Senate therevpon was greatly perplexed, either to accept or refuse it. It desired to auoide all occasions of contention with Ferdinand, who might sus∣pect that they had some intelligence with Strossi: and to suffer that place so nere a neighbour to Venice to fall into the Turkes hands, would be very dangerous, not only for the Common-wealth but for all Christendome. Being then moo∣ued with feare of such a danger, they resolued to harken to Pacis proposition, and [ 10] to that end two Senators were appointed, Antonio Capello, and Francesco Con∣taren, to treat with him vpon the particularities of the agreement: where after sundry contestations the composition was made in this manner: that Strossi for* 1.1331 consigning Maran into the Venetians hands, should for recompence receiue fiue and thirty thousand Ducats at one entire payment. This being thus con∣cluded, Alessandro Bondimiero was so dainely chosen Prouidator of that place, who going along with Pacis, with some few foot forces, was brought into it, and Strossi hauing consigned the towne to him, the whole people with great ioy did forth∣with take the oth of obedience to the Republike of Venice. [ 20]

The Venetians did afterwards acquaint the Emperour and Ferdinand with the* 1.1332 causes which had mooued them to embrace that necessary resolution: that their actions in two yeeres space, that the towne had beene offered vnto them, could yeeld sufficient testimony of their integrity, during which time they had not only refused to giue an eare to their often propounded offers, but had giuen passage, victuals, and other commodities to Ferdinands troupes for to recouer it: that they had likewise considered, how that place was of no great importance to Ferdinand, neither for the States confines, nor reuenew there of: but on the contrary of great expence, accompanied with extreame danger for all his States if it should haue fallne into the Turkes hands, as vndoubtedly it would haue so happened, if they should haue refused Strossi his offer. [ 30]

These reasons being cunningly deliuered to those Princes by Bernardo Noua∣gera, and Marin de Canalis, Ambassadours for the Signory, the one with the Em∣peror, and the other with King Ferdinand, did in some sort appease them, both of them hauing at first taken the treaty concerning that place in bad part: and then the quallity of the times did greatly helpe to make those Princes capable of the reasons by them alleadged: by reason that a Dyet had beene published at* 1.1333 the beginning of the yeere 1544. Where all the chiefe Princes and Lords of Germany were to meet to treat of affaires of great consequence, to make warre vpon the French, and to resist the Turkes attempts: for all the thoughts of the Emperour and the King of Romans tended only to those two ends; hoping [ 40] besides (as a matter which they much desired) that the Venetians perceiuing so many Princes and free townes of Germany leagued against the Turkes, would enter into league with them, and abandon that of the Turkes; this was the vsuall talke among Courtiers.

Now the Emperor was greatly afraide least that the Venetians, vpon the least discontent giuen vnto them from himselfe, should quit his alliance and embrace that of the French King, who had so often sought to them for it; aud his feare* 1.1334 was at the same time greater then euer, in regard of his hope (being ioyned to the King of England and the Suisses) to molest France more then euer he had done, perceiuing himselfe to be freed from the care of releeuing Italy, which would be [ 50] peaceable so long as the accord with the Venetians should last.

The French King on the contrary hauing the selfe same considerations, did hope to defend his owne Realme by troubling Italy, with the warres of Naples and the Dutchy of Milan, to constraine the Emperour to diuide his forces, and

to send part of them to the aide of those countries, and to that end did againe vse meanes to draw the Venetians to his party, and supposing that the quallity and reputation of the man might greatly further the businesse, he caused the Cardi∣nall of Ferrara to goe to Venice to that end, who was honourably entertained* 1.1335 there, and comming into the Senat in secret audience (as he had desired) he be∣ganne in substance to declare vnto them what the Emperours deseignes were; who only aspired to a sole Monarchy, and especially to that of Italy, the which he might with ease attaine to, did not the French King counterpoise him, who being their louing and trusty friend, did by him entreat them to enter into league with him, and speedily to send their nauall army into Puglia, where they [ 10] should finde the country disfurnished of Garrisons, and all the people at their deuotion, who did openly hold the Spaniards for their enemies, and he in the meane time, for the safety of their State, offered alwaies to haue fifteene thou∣sand men ready in Piedmont, or in any other place that they should thinke fit.

The Senate according to the custome, did not at that time giue the Cardinall any answere to his proposition, but the businesse being afterwards debated in the councell, they answered him, That as the Republike did highly esteeme and deere∣ly* 1.1336 reckon of the French Kings friendship, it did likewise determine still to embrace and cherish it: but it neither could nor would (being now at peace with other Princes, and in want of diuers things by reasons of the last warres) enter into trou∣ble [ 20] and expence by a new warre.

The King supposing this answere to be no flat deniall (so desirous hee was to draw the Venetians to his party against the Empetour) within a while after the Cardinals returne to Rome, imagining that the speech which the Pope had vsed in his behalfe would be of force to alter the Venetians mindes, caused Barthol•…•…meo Caualcanti, who was banished from Florence, to goe from Rome to Venice, to acquaint the Venetians with the Popes great affection towards the affaires of France, and to reuiue the negociation of the league, not long before propoun∣ded;* 1.1337 although the King by dissembling it, to make the offence and sorrow seeme lesse, for that so many of his attempts had not taken effect, did protest that [ 30] Caualcanti his going to Venice proceeded from the Cardinals sole and onely motion.

Caualcanti was a man of great iudgement, and an excellent Orator (as his workes that are published doe manifest) who made a long and excellent discourse to the Senate, contayning the selfe same substance that the Cardinall had before vttered: but the Senate being firme in their resolution did stop their eares to his speech, till they heard him speake of peace betwixt the Emperour and the French King, with all men so much desired.

The Pope to hasten the matter, sent two of the chiefest Cardinals, to wit, Mo∣ron* 1.1338 to the Emperour, and Grimani to the French King, exhorting the Vene∣tians [ 40] to send their extraordinary Ambassadours, as they had done at the assem∣bly at Nice, to the end that the exhortations both of the one and other might be of greater force to perswade them to so good a matter; and worthy the piety of any Christian Prince.

The Senate although it desired to see peace and concord betwixt those Prin∣ces, did neuerthelesse know that it behoued them to gouerne themselues mode∣ratly therein for diuers reasons, hauing oftentimes had experience of the bad offices done vnto them, by sinisterly interpreting in the Courts of Christian Prin∣ces, their sound and sincere actions, and that the selfe same interpretations had beene divulged at Constantinople vnder false collours, to their preiudice, yea, e∣uen [ 50] in Solimans hearing, and satisfying themselues with doing their duties by their ordinary Ambassadors, they were desirous to eschew that vaine and dange∣rous apparance. These Ambassadors acquainting the Senat with what was done in the Court of those Princes, reported, that they were very much enclined to

peace, not so much for any desire they had to be good friends, as because they* 1.1339 were weary of the warres: for the French being on the one side assailed by the King of England who comming to Calais with a mighty army did in person be∣seege Bullin, and on the other by the Imperiall army, which after along seege had taken the city of Saint Desier vpon Marne, was very desirous by peace to free himselfe from so many discontents: the Emperour on the other side, wholy wan∣ting money for the continuing of the warre, and fearing the losse of that which he held in Italy, by reason of forces raised in the Kings behalfe neere to Miran∣dola. Doubting likewise the successe of that warre in regard of the great num∣bers of Swisses which went to the Kings aide, and being very desirous to see [ 10] the Duke of Sauoy restored to his State, who vpon his occasion had beene de∣spoiled there of, the which could not be done but by agreement, was very willing and desirous of it: but each of them did looke when some other would motion the businesse.

The French Queene offered to employ her selfe therein, who was the Empe∣rors* 1.1340 sister, hauing caused Don Gabriel de Guzman a Spanish Frier and her Con∣fessor to goe to her brothers campe, to motion the matter to the chiefe of the army, supposing therein to doe a pleasure to her husband and brother both at once.

This treaty then begunne by Guzman after sundry goings and commings from [ 20] one campe to another did speedily take effect. Therefore, there being assembled the Admirall of France and the Secretary Bayard, which Granuelle and D. Ferrant de Gonzaga to conclude in their Princes names on the conditions of peace, it was* 1.1341 deereed; that on either part those townes which had beene taken since the treaty of Nice, should bee redeliuered; that all particular controuersies which might arise therevpon should be decided in the city of Cambray by Commissioners therevnto appointed: that the French King should aide the Emperor with a cer∣taine number of horse and foote whensoeuer hee should make warre vpon the Turke: that the Duke of Sauoy should be restored to his State, certaine places thereof excepted, to the which the French King laied some particular claime: [ 30] and for the better assurance of this accord, the Duke of Orleance, the Kings se∣cond sonne should marry the Emperors daughter, or one of his Neeces, daugh∣ter to Ferdinand, according as he should thinke fit, (who within foure monthes was to resolue himselfe therevpon) and yet with a different dowry; for marrying with the Emperors daughter the whole Low-Countries were promised him for her dowry, and for the Neece the Dutchy of Milan. The Venetians as friends to them both were comprehended in that peace, who had so discreetly behaued themselues during those warres, as both the one and other of them were sa∣tisfied* 1.1342 and pleased with their proceedings: the like did not happen to the Pope, of whom the French did greatly complaine, because that hee hauing made a [ 40] shew to fauour their party, had not aided them at their greatest need: the Imperials on the other side did accuse his deseignes, saying, that if hee had not openly declared himselfe for the French King it was not for want of loue, but for feare of the Emperors forces; so as his Legat had much to doe to get him to be comprehended in the peace: but because it was said to be made for the common good of Christendome, it was requisite and necessary to haue him therein named, as the chiefe of Christians.

This peace happening at a time and after such a manner when all men* 1.1343 least expected it, gaue occasion to men to discourse diuersly thereof, some thinking that it would continue, because the King did thereby purchase [ 50] vnto himselfe, either the Dutchy of Milan, or Flanders, with the whole Low Countiers, others beeing of a contrary opinion did imagine that the same accord would bee of none effect at all, by reason whereof the Em∣perour, who would not see the Realme of France to bee any way ruined by

the English (which was the cause of the agreement) would not likewise endure to see it grow great and florish by peace, and by the purchase of so many goodly dominions. The Venetians for all that did not let to reioyce therefore both by bonefiers and other demonstrations of ioy, yeelding sollemne thankes to God for that he had inspired the hearts of those Princes to imbrace peace.

Barbarossa in the meane time departing from Villafranca to returne towards Constantinople, and sayling alongst the coast of the Realme of Naples, he spoy∣led and wasted the whole country, and chiefly the Isles of Ischia and Lipari, which with a barbarous cruelty he did miserably ruine; from thence sayling to Corfou, and saluting the castle as a friend, he receiued the accustomed presents, not suffe∣ring* 1.1344 any harme to be done to the inhabitants of the Island. Captaine Polin was in that fleet with fiue Gallies and other vessels, who hauing brought the Turkes as farre as Lepanto, returned with all his vessels to Marseilles.

The Turkes were displeased at the newes of this peace betwixt Christian Prin∣ces, thinking it be done, the better to breake their deseignes vpon Hungary or Transiluania, for which they had already made preparations; but they went a∣bout to conceale their discontent for the better maintenance of their reputation, being wont to contemne Christians; and therefore not giuing ouer their former determination they caused to be giuen out that they were making farre greater preparations then at any other time before, to march at the spring against the [ 20] States belonging to the house of Austria: and yet neuerthelesse, the report at the same time was, that if the Ambassadors of those Princes did come to that Port, they should be entertained and willingly harkened to: for by their law they can not deny audience to any that come to sue for peace and friendship with their great Lord: the report of these great preparations, caused the Emperor and Fer∣dinand* 1.1345 expresly to dispatch their messengers to that Port to treat of peace and agreement: and for their safer going to worke, they caused the French King first of al to send one of his seruants to sound Solimans disposition therevnto, and with∣all to craue a passe-port for their Ambassadors.

The King did willingly entertaine this businesse, as well to free himselfe of that [ 30] he was tied to by the treaty of peace to aide the Emperour when he should make warre vpon the Turke, as in some sort to wipe out that blot, for which men taxed him; that a most Christian Prince had made vse of the armes of Infidels against Christians: wherevpon, his Ambassadour passing by Venice, did tell the Senate by his Kings commandement, that he had to none other end entertained the Turkes friendship, but only to make vse of it vpon such occasions for the good and profit of Christendome.

This Ambassador being come to Constantinople found Soliman disposed to whatsoeuer he demanded, and the passe-port which he craued being deliuered to him (which was at the beginning of the yeere 1545.) Ioronimo Adorni, did in [ 40] * 1.1346 Ferdinands name goe to Constantinople; the Emperor hauing to that end ap∣pointed Doctor Girardo, caused him first to goe to Venice, where he, and the Prothonotary Monluke, ordinary Ambassadour for the French King with the Signory, did imbarke themselues in the Venetian Gallies for Raguza, and from* 1.1347 thence went to the Port of the great Lord. Before their departure from Venice they had entreated the Senate that their Baily might haue an hand in that busi∣nesse, the which was granted, and commandement sent to him so to doe, but that he should doe it so cunningly as the Turkes might not conceiue any sinister opi∣nion, whereby any harme might redound to the Common-wealth, or profit to themselues. [ 50] * 1.1348

They treated at the same time in Venice of composing the strife betwixt King Ferdinand and the Republike, as well for the execution of the sentence of Trent, as for that which happened since concerning Maran, where after great contesta∣tion they did at last conclude for the businesse of Trent, to send Commissioners

thither to decide it, but for Maran it was referred to the Emperors councell: one of the chiefe conditions was that the Venetians should giue to Ferdinand three∣score, and fifteene thousand Ducats, the which (all other controuersies being en∣ded) they promised to pay in three yeeres, and at three equall payments.

This accord although it tooke none effect, was maliciously interpreted by* 1.1349 some, who vsed to sow discord and contention, telling Soliman that the same treaty was made against him in Ferdinands behalfe, vnto whom the Venetians promised that summe of money to leauy souldiers. These false reports being iustified and the truth of the matter knowne, Soliman was satisfied therewith: wherevpon the Senate thought it fit not to giue him any more cause of suspition: and therefore they wrote to their Baily, willing him no more to visit the Ambassadors, nor to [ 10] make any more publike demonstration of dealing in their businesse, the which he did exactly obserue, yet neuerthelesse some times when he had any secret confe∣rence with the Bashas, he did not let to doe all good offices which might fur∣ther the conclusion of the accord: wherein because the Republike had no other aime but the common peace and quiet, they solicited the Bashas that it might be mentioned in the treaty, that the Emperor and Ferdinand should not attempt any thing in Italy during the truce.

Rustin hauing heard this proposition, and seeming to be desirous to performe [ 20] any thing for the particular profit of the Signory, sayd, that by all meanes it was particularly to bee inserted in the treaty of the accord, as the friend of the great Lord, and expresse mention was made, how that during the truce the Vene∣tians State should in no sort be molested by the Princes, comprehended in the agreement, who doing otherwise it should be vnderstood to be broken with Soli∣mans selfe: yet neuerthelesse, it was thought that the Venetians had opposed themselues against that truce then handled, seeing that they could not procure peace, which caused the Emperor for that purpose to returne from Trent to Ve∣nice his Ambassador Mendoza, who not dissembling this suspition, and assuring them of the Emperours hearty affection towards them, entreated them from [ 30] him to fauour the treaty of truce, which was already (as hee said) well forward at Constantinople, and which for the Republikes sake might easily bee effec∣ted, promysing to haue it comprehended in the treaty as their good and louing friend.

This did the rather mooue the Venetians to solicite a suspension of armes be∣twixt those Princes, in regard, that besides other commodities, they were to re∣ceiue thereby great assurance, and reputation, by being declared friends to both parties, enioying the benifit of peace which they were to hope for by such an agreement. It was thought that the Emperor did not so earnestly pursue the* 1.1350 conclusion of the league, for any distrust not to be assisted by Germany against the Turkes; but because he perceiued himselfe to be enforced to take armes a∣gainst [ 40] the chiefe Lords and States of that country, who hauing pell mell ouer∣turned all matters sacred and prophane to the great contempt of the Church of Rome, and the Maiesty of the Empire, went daily vp and downe practizing no∣uelties by a manifest rebellion, so that the Emperour, who from the beginning to draw them to his party had consented against the Popes minde, that the councell should be held in the city of Trent, to the great aduantage of the Al∣maines, did afterwards repent him of it, knowing that therein he had done no great good seruice to Religion: that he had broken with the Pope, and nothing preuailed with the Almains, wherevpon he sought to moderate the conditions with which it had beene published. [ 50]

The Venetians on the other side perceiuing that the assembly of the councell (though they would not openly hinder it) was not pleasing to the Pope, as being made in an vnfit time and place, and by meanes not beseeming the dignity and authority of the sea Apostolike, would not send their Ambassadors thither.

Concerning the accord treated of at Constantinople, of which al men hoped for a prosperous end by meanes of a long truce of many yeeres (certaine difficul∣ties arising about the restitution of some few castles in Hungary) it ended by a* 1.1351 short suspension of armes for one yeere, with an intent neuerthelesse (as Solimans selfe did say, and write to the French King) that after the matter should bee well debated in Ferdinands Court, the Ambassadours might returne to the Port the next yeere following with new Commissions to strenthen the peace with a longer terme.

In the meane time a new Contention arose betwixt the Turkes and the Veneti∣ans about the confines of Dalmatia, where the Sangiacks of Bossina and Clissa [ 10] * 1.1352 being desirous to disturbe the peace for their owne particular profit, or else to spoile the country, or to receiue so me presents of the Venetians, would haue vsur∣ped a great part of the territory of Zara, saying, that a country contayning nine and forty villages did belong vnto them, as dependances of the castles of Nadin and Laurana, which by the last accord remayning to the great Lord, they said did likewise belong vnto him with all their territories: wherevpon they forbad the inhabitants of those places vpon grieuous penalties, to acknowledge any other Lord but Soliman.

This new trouble did greatly vex the Venetians, the country in question be∣ing of great importance, both for it selfe and for the preseruation of the city of [ 20] Zara, and although their reasons were vnreasonable, in regard that Nadin and Laurana, small castles, had no territory belonging vnto them, but did with the other villages nere adioyning depend on Zara, the chiefe city of the Prouince,* 1.1353 yet neuerthelesse fearing least the strange and insolent proceedings which the Turkes are wont to vse in such businesses (who hold it for a law, that the whole country whereon the horse of the great Lord hath once trod doth belong vn∣to them) might occasion longer strife, had recourse to Soliman, who referring the decission of that controuersie to the Sangiac of Chersega, and to two Cadis (these men are ordinary iudges in law) was desirous to haue whatsoeuer they should set downe to be executed, who were to meet in the same place with the [ 30] Commissioners of the Signory. The Senate did for that purpose choose Lo∣douico Rayniero who handled the businesse so wisely and discreetly with the Tur∣kish officers, as the whole territory in question was quietly adiudged to the Re∣publike of Venice.

The same yeere deceassed Prince Landi, leauing behind him a great and singu∣lar reputation to haue well and wisely gouerned the Common-wealth for the space of sixe yeeres and eight monthes, and lieth buried in Saint Antonies Church. Francesco Donato was chosen in his place.

[ 40]

[ 50]

[illustration]

FRANCESCO DONATO the seuenty ninth Duke.

[ 10]

[ 20]

ABout the beginning of the yeere 1546. all those that desired* 1.1354 the peace of Italy were afraide, least it would be shortly shaken with new troubles, because that the peace betwixt the Emperor and the French King (the principall Articles thereof taking none effect) was so badly assured, as there wanted nothing but a fit time to take armes.

The French King by the sodaine death of his sonne the Duke of Orleance hauing not obtained the Duchie of [ 30] Milan promised vnto him, by meanes of the marriage, had not for all that lost his desire to recouer it: the Duke of Sauoy likewise could not be restored of his State, the King still detayning it vpon sundry pretences, hoping to enforce the Emperor to some other conditions by the restitution thereof, seek∣ing thereby to obtaine his desire.* 1.1355

An other new matter happened in Italy which gaue cause of feare of some new troubles: for the Pope perceiuing al his deseignes to fal out contrary to his desire for the aduancement of his house, hauing cut off from the Churches demaines the cities of Parma and Placentia, which Pope Iulius the second had annexed there∣vnto, gaue them in see to Petro Lodouico his son, on condition to pay a yeerely rent [ 40] of eight thousand crownes to the Church, and in recompence thereof to make o∣uer to the sea Apostolike the Dutchy of Camerin, and the Signory of Nepi wher∣with his son Octanio had beene inuested. This Cession did so much displease the Emperor, as he could by no meanes be induced to giue the Pope the inuestiture* 1.1356 of those two cities which he demanded, hauing beene in formet time incorpora∣ted into the Dutchy of Milan.

This resusal of the Emperor had equally incensed both the father and the son: so, that Petro Lodouico would willingly haue embraced the first occasion offered against the Emperour: and the Pope, distrusting both the Emperour and the French King, resolued by all meanes to maintaine and defend what he had done [ 50] concerning the erection of the new Dutchy in the person of his sonne, who discoursing with the Venetian Ambassadour told him, into what danger Italy was like to fail, so soone as the French King should be at peace with the King of England, which at that time was treated of; and that the Emperor, if he could

not at the Dyet of Ratisbon draw the Protestant Princes to his desire, would bee enforced to make warre vpon them: therefore he did exhort the Senate to ioyne with him a firme and sound intelligence, as it behooued them for their common interests, and for a greater assurance, he caused the new Duke to send Augustino de Landes his Ambassador to Venice, who acquainting them with the new grade* 1.1357 and dignity which he had lately obtained, did in his name offer both his State and person to the seruice of the Signory.

The Senate did very louingly thanke him for his offers, offering him the selfe same, but in generall termes, which could not tie them to any thing, because they would not thereby giue his Holinesse any hope by their meanes to raise any [ 10] troubles in Italy: then, prouiding for the defense of their owne States, and fore∣seeing what might happen, they tooke into the seruice of the Common wealth Guido Vbaldo Duke of Vrbin, in quallity of Generall of their forces by land, with a yeerely pension of fiue thousand crownes, and fifteene thousand crownes for an hundred men at armes and a hundred light horse, which he was bound to haue continually ready for the seruice of the Signory.

But the troubles wherein the Emperor and the French King were engaged, was cause of the safety of Italy; because that the one, notwithstanding all his attempts could not get Bolloigne from the English: and the other hauing called the Pro∣testant Princes to the Dyet of Ratisbon, to treat of affaires concerning Religion, [ 20] although he were there in person, could not induce them to decree or conclude any thing: but whereas at the beginning it seemed that they would haue beene satisfied to haue had the councell held in the city of Trent, whither they promised* 1.1358 to send their Doctors to treat of matters concerning faith, and afterwards to hold and embrace what there should be decided: they did then craue first of all to haue a nationall councell held in Germany, and if afterwards it should happen to be referred to that of Trent, that the assembly might on all sides be free, with di∣uers other exorbitant and vnreasonable demands. This caused the Pope no more to feare the councell, and to assure the State of Parma and Placencia to his sonne, the Emperor, Princes and people of Germany, hauing turned their [ 30] thoughts to other matters, determining to end that controuersie by armes.

The end of the fourth Booke of the sixth Decade.

[ 40] [ 50]

The Contents of the fist Booke of the [ 10] sixth Decade.

THE Venetians goe about to diuert the Pope from taking armes against the Protestants. The Venetians grant passage thorow their Territories to the Pope and the Emperors Sol∣diors, [ 20] who were the Protestants partakers. The Venetians re∣fuse to lend mony to the Duke of Saxon and Lantgraue of Hesse. The Protestants take the Castle of Chiusa to stop the Italians passage. The cause of the losse and ouerthrow of the Protestants. What the Venetian Gentlemen are, with their prerogatiues. The commotion of the Sienois against the Spaniards. Petro Lodouico Duke of Parma and Placentia is murthered. The Death of Francis the first, French King. The death of Henry the eight King of England. The occasion of the new warre betwixt the French and the [ 30] English. Horacio Farnese marrieth the daughter of Henry the French King. The Venetians being solicited by the Pope and the French King against the Emperour, continue Neuters. The Popes great perplexities. Soli∣man takes armes against the Persian, making truce with Christian Princes. Contention betwixt the Emperor and the French King concerning the Truce with the Turke. Controuersy about the Place wherein the councell should bee held. The death of Pope Paul the third with the election of Pope Iulius the third. Horatio Farnese committeth him-selfe and his family into the French [ 40] Kings protection. Great warre in Italy concerning Parma and Placentia. The Publication of the Councel of Trent. Pietro Strozzi his pollicy to reuic∣tuall Parma. The German Princes Treate with the French King against the Emperor. The French King being incensed against the Pope forbidd•…•…th the Annates in France. The Turkes warre in Hungary and Transil•…•…ania. All Ger∣many in league against the Emperor and his brother. Ferdinand to free him selfe from the warre with the Turkes, offereth to pay him tribute for Transil∣uania. And lastly the murther of Frier George, Cardinall of the Sea Aposto∣like. [ 50]

The fift Booke of the sixt Decade [ 10] of the History of Uenice.

THE Pope perceauing the Emperor to be distasted of the Protestants (as hath beene said) began to heate him more, by promising to aid him with great numbers both of horse and foote paid by the Sea Apostolike. The Senate from the beginning vsed meanes to appease the Pope, and to diuert [ 20] him from medling in that warre, the which it thought* 1.1359 could bring no good to Italy, and there was small hope to preuaill by force in matter of Relligion: For all the free townes of Germany hauing declared them-selues for the Protestant Princes, fea∣ring that the Emperor, vnder other pretences, went about to subiugate them, Ger∣many on the other side standing badly affected to the Pope, and Court of Rome, it was to be feared, and not without cause, that the same fierce and warlike nation would by reason ther of make incursions into Italy, where they that had in no sort delt in that businesse were to smart for it: Or if the Emperor should happen to quell Germany; hee by that victory growing more mighty, both in forces and [ 30] reputation, his greatnesse would proue fearefull to the Princes of Italy. But the Senate knowing him to be resolute therein, and that being prickt forward by two mighty spurrs, Feare, and Hope, concerning the affaires of state, of his own great∣nesse, and that of his house, he would not embrace any councell contrary to his owne opinion, did for beare to speake vnto him any more concerning that matter, but vpon the Pope and Emperors motion vnto it about that exterprize, by their Ambassadors, it made a modest answer, because it would not vainely offend the* 1.1360 Emperor, without praising or dispraising it, being not willing to giue any occasi∣on to be requested to aide him. Yet neuerthelesse it was certainly reported, that the Common-wealth had promised at the conclusion of the league at Rome, to giue [ 40] paiment for fiue thousand footemen, which was most false.

The Venetians being desirous, in some sort, to content these Princes in any thing which was not of expence, and being intreated so to doe, did promise free* 1.1361 passage to the Popes soldiers, who being assembled at Bolognia to the number of twelue thousand footmen, and fiue hundred horse, were to passe thorrow the Ter∣ritory of Verona to goe to Trent: the like was done to the Emperors forces, who for their mony were furnished with victualls and other necessaries. The best and* 1.1362 brauest soldiers of all Italy were in the Popes Army, whereof Octania Farnese his Nephew was Generall, who was a yong Lord of great hope: But that of the Em∣peror was composed of sundry nations; namely of diuers Almans, drawne forth [ 50] of the patrimonial States of the house of Austria, frō those of the Dukes of Baua∣ria and Cleues, and the Marquis Albert of Brandenbourg, who did follow the Em∣perors party, so that the whole number of his forces were forty thousand foote∣men and fiue thousand horse.

The Protestant Princes made preparations at the same time, the cheife of whom were Iohn Fredericke Duke of Saxony one of the Electors of the Empire, and Phillip Lantgraue of Hesse, who, saying that they would defend the liberty of Germany, which Charles went about to vsurpe, (as they said) did draw vnto their* 1.1363 parts diuers of the greatest Lords and Citties of Germany, as the Duke of Wittemberg, the Count Palatin another Elector, with the Common-wealthes of Argentine, Vlmes, Francfort and Norimberg, the Citty of Ausbourg hauing a long time before declared it selfe in their behalfe: all which hauing resolued to hold a diet at Vlmes did send their Ambassadors and Commissioners thither, to treat particularly of the preparations for warre, where the concourse of all Ger∣many* 1.1364 was such, as they leuied a very great army of fourescore thousand footmen, [ 10] and tenne thousand horse, with which forces they promised vnto themselues to be able to ouercome those of the Emperor, and to driue him forth of Germany, in regard hee was not able to assemble Germaine forces comparable to theirs.

They feared none but forraine soldiers, and especially the Italian Fantery, leuied by the Pope: whereuppon, to stoppe their passage, they did write louingly to the Venetians, and by putting them in mind of the antient freindship betwixt the Germaine nation and them, they entreated them not to giue passage to those through their territories, who came only to offend them, and to serue the Em∣peror, [ 20] * 1.1365 who went about to bring Germany into seruitude. The Senate answered that it did hold their freindship deere, which they had euer embraced, & generaly that of all Germany, but, their Countrey being open and Champaine, they could not stoppe the soldiers passage but with great forces, which they were wont to employ but against open enemies. Within a while after, they receiued particu∣lar* 1.1366 letters from the Duke of Saxony and the Landgraue of Hesse, which acquain∣ting them with their deseignes, and how that for their owne defense they had beene enforced to take armes, did ernestly entreate them to lend them a certaine summe of money. The King of England did greatly fauour his demand, by his Se∣cretary residing at Venice, who presented his letters; (that King being distasted of the Emperor): but the Senate making still one answer, said, that it did hold those [ 30] * 1.1367 Princes for their good and trusty freinds, and did wish them all prosperity and aduancement, but that they could not satisfie their request without offending o∣ther Princes with whom they were in league and freindship, which they did mean to maintaine, and that (these respects excepted) they did greatly affect the Ger∣maine nation. Those of Ausbourg likewsie hauing by their letters and by an ex∣presse messenger recommended their Marchants to the Senate, (many of whom were retired to Venice, and greater numbers comming daily thither for feare of those trobles), were kindly answered, that their Cittizens, with all others of any* 1.1368 other Citties of Germany, which came to Venice, should be very welcome and vsed as their owne Cittizens, as they had beene in former times. Now Whilest [ 40] either party was busied in making preparations for warre, and that already great numbers of soldiers raised in Italy were ready to march, a rumor was spred abroad how that both sides were at peace and become freinds, the Capitulations whereof beeing vnknowne, and no Postes beeing sent abroad into all places to publish it, did sufficiently manifest that it was nothing so, yet neuerthelesse these sodaine newes did amaze the Venetians, considering that such great numbers of soldiers which at that time filled all Italy, were sufficient to affright other mens states which were vnfurnished of force, whenso euer they should bee desirous to turne their Armes vpon any other enterprize. The Pope hauing intelligence of* 1.1369 the Venetians doubt, and fearing least the Senate would determine, for their safe∣ty, [ 50] to league themselues with some other, with a resolution cleane contrary to his deseignes, did enter into a long discourse with the Ambassador for the Signory, telling him how that for the Common good •…•…hee had euermore beene carefull of the peace and quiet of Italy, with a particular desire to aduance

whatsoeuer did belong to the safety and greatnesse of the Venetian Common∣wealth: wherefore he willed him to assure the Senate of his good meaning, that they might continew their sound intelligence with him, seeing that thereby they should preserue one anothers states in safety, yea and all Italy beside; that he was* 1.1370 desirous at that time to reuiue that discourse when he was armed and out of dan∣ger to be outraged, to let them know that it was not feare, but a true and zealous loue that mooued him so to discourse with him, and to open vnto him the secret of his thoughtes.

The treaties of peace being broken, and the Armies on both sides in the field, the Protestants seeking to do that of themselues, which they could not obtaine of others, namely to stop the Italians passage which were comming against them [ 10] went to seaze vpon the Castle of Chiusa, a place in the County of Tiroll, seated among the mountaines, by which they supposed that the enemies would passe;* 1.1371 but the Pope and Emperors Armies, keeping the way that leadeth neerer to Is∣pruch, entred the Dutchy of Bauaria and from thence went to Ratisbon, where the Emperor with his other forces expected them.

The two armies as well that of the Emperor, as the enemies, continued a long time idle, each of them watching for some aduantage, notwithstanding that they were oftentimes so neere together, as sundry great skirmishes were many times* 1.1372 made in one an others view, without comming to battaile, which the Emperor, [ 20] being wel aduised, did as much as in him lay seeke to auoid, the better to draw the businesse out in length, and to defeat the enemies, (who were many heads of seue∣rall minds, by temporizing, the which he did.

For the soldiers and the townes beginning to loose their former great opinion of beeing soone able to vanquish and defeate the Emperor, and to feele the dis∣comodities of tedious contributions towards the wars, King Ferdinand hauing on the other side entred Duke Iohn Fredericks State with a mighty army, accom∣panied by Duke Maurice of Saxony his enemy, there arose such a confusion and amazement in the enemies Campe as suffering diuers Castles to be taken before their faces, and their Army dissoluing of it selfe, the Emperor might in a short* 1.1373 space contrary to his expectation giue an end to that dangerous warre. For ha∣uing [ 30] by these fortunate euents, purchased great fame, and reputation, diuers of those Protestant Princes and free townes returned to their obedience and beg∣ged pardon: so as in a few monethes space, he wonne a great part of the Contries of those great Lords and mighty Common-wealthes, the which he had scarce∣ly hoped to be able to haue done in a long time and with great labour and trauell.

This Warre thus ended, winter being already come the Emperor dismissed the Popes troopes, which being disbanded returned back into Italy. The Cardi∣nall Farnese, the Popes nephew, who had beene his Legat in that Army, returning towards Rome was desirous as he passed along to see the Citty of Venice, where hauing notice that they made preparations for his entertainment, he determined [ 40] to goe thither in priuate, where he was so well receiued and entertained of all men both in publique and priuate, as he departed from thence well satisfied and contented. The Farneses not long before at the Popes request, had beene re∣ceiued into the number of the Venetian Gentlemen, in all places so highly re∣ckoned of, both for the ancient gouernment of the Common-wealth, and for the name of liberty which they haue euer inuiolably maintained together with the dignity and command of great dominions: And because occasion is now offered by the way to speak sumwhat of this nobility, we wil breefly make some mention thereof. [ 50] * 1.1374

The Venetians do call those Gentlemen that haue a share in the gouernment of the Common-wealth, that is to say, those that haue authority to elect the pub∣lick magistrates, and may themselues likewise bee elected: this authority is giuen them from their birth, so as who-so-euer is borne of noble parents, is noble

and may at a certaine time and manner limitted by the lawes, enter into the great councell, where the ordinary electon of Magistrates is made. Into this ranke are receiued, either those who hauing beene the cheefe inhabitants of the Citty, and most famous for vertue and wealth, haue from the beginning had the mannaging of publike affaires: or alse those who for some notable and worthy act, done in ser∣of the Common-wealth, are at sundry times, and for sundry accidents, admitted therevnto: who for the most part haue beene of the cheefe and noblest families, of some other place: or some others vnto whome by speciall grace and fauour, this title of Nobillity hath beene giuen: Wherein neuer-the-lesse they haue car∣ried them-selues very moderately, it being graunted but to Lords of great Estate, [ 10] and in this manner were the families of Este and Gonzaga, with some others of the cheefe of Italy, admitted there-vnto; namely, Henry King of France and Poland, being at Venice, in the yeare 1574. and among other honors receiuing the title of a Venetian Gentleman, did seeme to be highly pleased, and satisfied with that guift. Besides, all those that descend from them, who haue beene once receaued into this degree, haue the same preeminence, and to the end it may continually be the better maintayned in it perfection, they do curiously search out the pede∣grees of those who are to enter into the great councell, not only the nobillity of the father, but like-wise whether they bee borne of lawfull matrimony, and of no common woman, but of some honorable degree and condition, wherof a regester [ 20] is kept by one of the cheefe magistrates, termed the Auogario of the Common∣wealth. But to returne to our history, the Emperor Charles was in all places high∣ly praised, and commended for his fortunate successe, and for breaking the ene∣mies army: Duke Fredericke and the Landgraue, were yet vnuanquished, who despayring, as authors of al those troubles, of obtaining the Emperors fauour, did still continew in their rebellion: and yet for all that men might perceiue that they* 1.1375 could not long resist the forces or so great and victorious a Prince. The Pope cal∣ling to mind by himself, whatsoeuer was past, perceiued how much more proffita∣ble it had beene for him to haue followed the Venetians councell; whose wisdom he highly praised, for he saw no prosperous successe of any thing that he had taken [ 30] in hand; The councell lay open as before, the Emperor doing it to content the people of Germany, although by reason of the warre certaine Prelats were gone home againe: That Pietro Lodouico was in no great fafety, in regard the warre was so sonne ended, the which he thought would haue continued longer, with diuers other matters which discontented him, and gaue him cause to complaine. The Emperor on the other side made his complaints, saying that he had broken pro∣mise with him, because the warre being not yet ended, which hee had begun tho∣row* 1.1376 his perswasion, he had countermanded his troupes, leauing him still entang∣led in Germany, betwixt two mighty enemies, the Duke of Saxony, and the Land∣graue of Hesse; the which he much amplified, to draw the Pope to a new contri∣bution [ 40] of mony, or that hee might haue leaue to make vse of the wealth of the Churches of Spaine, which he had often craued, or els to make his victories seeme greater by exalting the enemies forces; so, as they made him more proud, and en∣creased in him his desire to rule, especially after that he had in battaile vanquished and taken Iohn Fredericke Duke of Saxony prisoner, and enforced the Landgraue to craue his pardon: wherevpon entring intriumphant manner into the Citty of Ausbourge, he there held a Diet, where he obtayned whatsoeuer he demanded for his owne proffit and commodity. Yet neuer-the-lesse, in the middest of all these prosperities his mind stil ran vpon the affaires of Italy, how he might keep to him∣selfe the State of Milan, whither he sent great store of ordnance, which he had ta∣ken [ 50] * 1.1377 from diuers Lords of Germany, with great numbers of Spanish foot, as those in whom he reposed most trust, and him-selfe going thither afterwards, caused the oth of allegiance to be made vnto him-selfe, and to him whom he should appoint for their Prince, (meaning his Sonne Philip) who for that purpose was shortly to

passe into Italy: yet neuer-the-lesse he procured an agreement with the Swisses, whereby they were bound to maintaine and defend the State of Milan. He had moreouer placed foure hundred Spaniards in Siena, for the gard of the Citty with an officer of his owne, who in diuers matters vsed great authority, and went* 1.1378 about to build a Castle there, that he might afterwards make him-selfe absolute maister thereof, vnder collour of the commotions of the people and nobility, who being not able in the end to endure to see them-selues brought into bon∣dage,* 1.1379 had driuen the Spaniards forth of the citty, and committed diuers other outrages against the Imperiall Maiestie; he did likewise vse meanes to seaze on the towne of Piombino, to take it from the true Lord vpon sundry pretences, [ 10] * 1.1380 promising to recompence him with some other place, hoping to make vse of the commodiousnesse of that place, being seated on the sea of Tuscany, and fit for his other deseigns: But his seasing on the Citty of Placentia, together with the death of Petro Lodouico, did more then all the rest amaze euery man, and especially the* 1.1381 Pope: & for the ful accomplishment of the Emperors happinesse, there died at the same time, not long one after another, the two greatest and mightiest Kings of Christendome, Francis the first of that name French King, and Henry the eight King of England; so, that all things seemed to fauour him, and to fall out accor∣ding to his desire, seeing that those two great and mighty Princes, being taken away, who were his enemies, and enuious of his greatnesse, hee remained alone [ 20] of him-selfe in a manner Iudge and Vmpier of all matters, with a soueraygne authority.

Henry Daulphin of France succeeded King Francis his Father, not onely in the crowne, but in the selfe same affections and desires, in no sort to giue way to the* 1.1382 Emperors fortune. The Senate were greatly greeued with King Francis death, where-vpon they chose two Ambassadors, namely Vittore Grimani and Mateo Dandulo, who were in all hast to goe into France to the new King, and according to the custome to bewaile with him his fathers death, and next to congra∣tulate his comming to the crowne, and to assure him that the Venetian* 1.1383 Republike was disposed and resolued to continue peace, and friendship with him, [ 30] as it had done with his Father the late King. As for Henry King of England, Italy was not so much greeued fot him, that Kingdom being farther off: the Venetians alone bewayled him, by reason of their ordinary commerce, and trafficke into that realme, for which, they kept an ordinary Ambassador in England. Edward the sixt of that name succeeded his Father Henry, who was yong and gouerned by the* 1.1384 cheefe Lords of the Kingdome, vnto whom the Senate send Dominico Bollano for their Ambassador, who found them very willing to continue friendshippe and vsuall trafficke with the Venetians, promising to giue kind vsage to as many of their nation as should come into those parts.

The French King was desirous at the same time to make warre vpon the Eng∣lish [ 40] for diuers respects, but especially for the towne of Boloign. Those which feared the Emperors to much greatnesse, were sorry that the French King should busie him-selfe in that warre, which made him to forget the affaires of Italy, and to suffer the Emperor freely to pursue his owne deseigns, but the Pope was more discontented then any other, as he that for his owne particular interests, and not for the common good, did determine by the armes of the French to abate the Emperors greatnesse: therefore hee resolued to send the Cardinall of Saint* 1.1385 George into France, vnder collour (as it was giuen forth,) to cause the French Prelates to come to the councell published at Bolognia: But in effect it was for other ends, namely to incite the French King to turne his deseigns against the [ 50] Emperor, and to stoppe his pregressions, offering him for that purpose all ayde and friendship.

King Henry did willingly harken to this motion, as one desirous to execute

some great enterprize, and who would not omit any occasion whereby he might hope to purchase glory by some generous action: wherein the Pope, by meanes of his forces, was thought to be a very fit Instrument for the affaires of Italy, as well in regard of the commodiousnesse of his State, as most of all for his autho∣rity.* 1.1386 wherevpon the King beeing easily perswaded to harken to this proposition resolued to strengthen his intelligences in Italy, and to purchase friends there, and among othere, he sent for Perro Strossi into France, whom he forth with ho∣nored with the order of S. Michell, which at that time was a great honor, and gi∣uen to none but noble persons, or to such as had well deserued of the Crowne of France: this man was highly esteemed for his excellent witte, and also for that he [ 10] was an enemy to peace, and greatly followed by the bandetti of Florence and o∣thers, which was a ready means to trouble the affaires of Italy. The King did like∣wise fauour thereuolt of the Sienois promising to aid them in the defense of their* 1.1387 liberties. But together with the Pope (for the vnion betwixt them was already confirmed, Horatio Farnese sonne to Pedro Lodouico hauing married King Henries daughter) he was likewise desirous to draw the Venetians to that league and Vni∣on, because hee would attempt nothing against the Emperor in Italy, but that which he was sure would take effect.

The King to this end sent his Ambassador to Venice, so did the Pope his Nun∣cio, who supposed to find the Venetians more ready to condiscend to their de∣mandes, [ 20] then they had beene in times past, in regard of the Emperors dealings, and especially for the Villany committed vpon the person of Petro Lodouico who had beene murthered by certaine Place nti•…•…e Gentlemen, by the consent (as it was reported) of D. Ferrant of Gonzaga, Lieutenant to the Emperor in Italy, who presently after had seazed vppon the Citty of Placentia, leauing great num∣bers of Spaniards in Garrison there in the Emperors name who by that meanes* 1.1388 went about to take away an other mans rightes not by open force but by deceit.

Gonzaga knowing that the Venetians would suspect and think strangely of that deed, did speedily send Giouan Baptista Schizze, a Senator of Milan to Venice, to∣acquaint the Senate with what had beene done, and by quallifying the matter to [ 30] assure them that he was not guilty thereof; but that he could do no lesse, beeing sent for and sought vnto by the Dukes murthererers who presently came to him to Milan, to haue him goe and receiue that Citty in the Emperors name the which he did, but till such time as hee might receiue newes what the Emperors pleasure was therein: but his deeds were contrary to his worps; for so soone as he entred the Citty, he caused the building of the Castle, which the Duke had already begunne, to be set foreward, and caused the nobility and people to take the oath of aleadgeance to the Emperor, and made speedy preparations to goe and beseege Parma, notwithstanding that Octauio Farnese complained in vaine that so great an iniury was done vnto him he beeing the Emperors sonne in law. [ 40]

This stirre being in very deed of great importance had caused the Venetians to make prouisions for the defense of their townes: therfore they made Stephano Tepulo Prouidator Generall on the firme land, to the end that in that office hee should prouide for all their soldiers, visit the Forts belonging to the State, and take speedy order for what soeuer should be needfull: They did besides, call home the Duke of Vrbin Generall of their Army, who was then at Rome, about his marriage, not long before concluded with Virginia, daughter to Duke Pietro Lo∣douico, Farnese They wrote afterwards to Antonio de Castello, who serued them as maister of their Artillery, and a man of great credit, that he should make hast to the Citty of Bressia, to augment the ordinary Garrison that lay there; the Proui∣dator [ 50] Generall did the like at Verona and in all other townes of importance, the* 1.1389 Venetians supposing that all places were full of deceit and trechery. Things stan∣ding at this stay, the Pope and the French King did daily more ernestly solicite the Venetians, openly to declare them-selues without any more delay, and not to

deferre the remedying of the present mischiefe till it were too late. The Senate for all that did not make hast to take armes against a most mighty Prince their neighbour, who at the same time exalted to the very height of his prosperous greatnes, because that the common-wealth was not so weake and low brought, as whosoeuer those should bee that were desirous to assayle it, might thinke their enterprize easie; nor yet so mighty as it was able to keepe others in awe, and thereby gaue them cause to goe about to abate their greatnesse: so as the condi∣tion thereof was farre different from that of others, because it might without any feare of beeing assayled by the Emperor, expect that which time, and the alterati∣on of affaires might procure it; which might (as it often happeneth) open a way [ 10] to some better and safer course. Whereupon, after that the matter had beene* 1.1390 well debated in open Councell, the Pope and French Kings demands were ans∣wered after one maner, and yet apart, how that the Senate did infinitely praise their care of the common safety, together with the prouisions which they had made, for the mainetainance and defence of that which did belong vnto them: that they would follow and imitate that Councel, and haue a watchfull eie on the defence of their State, supposing that remedy alone to be sufficient for that time, to free them from all feare and dangers: and therefore, they did not thinke it ne∣cessary to enter into a more strict and particular vnion, whereby they might stirre vp and prouoke those that were desirous to trouble their peace. [ 20]

Although this answer did not greatly please the Pope and King, they did ne∣uer-the-lesse dissemble it, because they would not altogether estrange them from their friendship, and loose their hope of seeing them one day (hauing changed their minds) to bee ioyned with them. Wherupon, commending the graue and mature Councell of that Senate, they said, that when they should haue a further insight into the Emperors intention, which could not bee long concealed, toge∣ther with the suspition which all men had conceiued of his ambition, they would then on a sodaine resolue with true and firme foundations to assure that which concerned themselues and the whole State of Italy. Now notwithstanding this* 1.1391 resolution of the Venetians, & that their hope of their good successe in their own [ 30] enterprises was for the most part lost, the desire neuer-the-lesse of taking armes against the Emperor was not diminished, neither in the Pope nor French King: and being not able in the meane time, by reason of sundry difficulties, to come to open force, yet diuers secret practises were broched betwixt the French and the Farneses in sundry Citties of Italy, & cheefly at Genoa, Siena & Millan, Citties infected with the humors of diuers factions. The yeere following 1548. was in a manner spent in such like businesses & secret practizes, & conspiracies of* 1.1392 Princes against one ano•…•…hers States & yet without any effect of importance. For although the French King was desirous to trouble Italy, that he might altogether keepe the Emperor busied there, and yet neuer-the-les, he thought it a weake and [ 40] feeble thing to build his hopes vpon the Popes friendship, who was very old and poore, & one already in the graue & perhaps not very firme & constant to main∣taine war, if the Emperor should propound vnto him (as it was likely he would by reason of his alliance with Octauio Farnese) some means of agreement: he did like∣wise perceiue, that the Venetians being not wel resolued to take arms, were stil de∣sirous to remaine neuters, & were so strongly vnited with the Emperor since cer∣ten yeares, as he thought it an impossibility to bee able to disioyne them, besides, he was desirous to pursue the war with y^• English, hoping by reason of the contē∣tion* 1.1393 in Englād betwixt the Gouernors of the yong King, not only to keepe Scot∣land, which he hoped one day would fall to his eldest son, by the mariage of the [ 50] Infanta of that kingdom, but likewise to win & recouer the towne of Bouloigne, by means whereof, although he continued his sundry practizes, not only with the Pope, concerning Parma, but likewise at Genoa & Siena, for the alteration of the gouernment of those townes, depending on the Emperors authority, yet neuer∣the-les hee made no preparation to put his desiegnes in execution, nor declared himselfe openly the Emperors enemy.

The Pope on the other side beeing extreamly desirous to reuenge the wrongs which the Emperor had done him, and to restore the Citty of Placentia to his house, did greatly doubt, whither it were best for him to proceed therein by armes, or by way of agreement: some-times hee hoped that the Emperor as Lord of so* 1.1394 many great States, although hee did for a time shew himselfe sterne and seuere, would not in the end depriue Octauio his sonne in lawe with his children descen∣ded from that mariage, of that State, and reduce them to a priuate fortune and condition, for which hee had more then once sent expresse messengers vnto him, to entreat him to deliuer the Citty of Placentia to Octauio, and to for beare to mo∣lest him any more about the possession of the Citty of Parma: but at the same [ 10] time that hee sent these Ambassadors, hee dealt with the Fre•…•…ch King, to take Duke Octauto, with the Citty of Parma, into his protection against the Impe∣riall forces.

The Pope in this sort beeing tossed vp and downe, resolued, (for the satisfying of the Emperor and the Almaines, with whom hee was at oddes in regard of the Councel which he would haue had to be kept at Bolognia, and others at Trent) to send the Bishop of Fane his Nuncio to the Emperor, and the Bishop of Verona at the same time for his Legat into Germany, with power and authority to grant the* 1.1395 Almains sundry things which they craued for some alteration of the ordinary customes in the Romaine Church, the which the Emperor had iustly lookt into, [ 20] the better to bridle that nation, after that he had granted them the Interim: and in the meane time, for an answer to the Pope, hee fed him and the Duke Octauio likewise, with sundry hopes, without any certaine resolution; propounding sun∣dry kinds of agreement vnto them, some times that hee would recompence him with some other State in an other place: then he said that he would first see who had most right to that State, either the Church, or the Empire: at other times likewise, seeming to bee discontented, insteed of surrendring Placentia, hee de∣manded to haue Parma deliuered to him: in a word▪ those which best knew his in∣ward meaning, did suppose that he went about by those incerteinties to entangle the Pope in perpetuall doubts, hauing already determined with himselfe by no [ 30] meanes to quit the Citty of Placentia, as beeing very commodious for the State of Milan, but sought to prolong and giue time, and to keepe himself from beeing enforced to take armes, waiting for the Popes sodaine death, that he might in the meane time be able to execute his other great deseignes. Now whilest the Chri∣stian Princes, enemies to peace, did in this manner vex themselues with sundry thoughts, their Estates were by meere chance, and vnknowne to themselues, freed from the assaults of the Turkish armes, because Soliman was desirous to lead his* 1.1396 Army appointed for Hungary against Persia, beeing therevnto prouoked by a de∣sire of glory which hee hoped to purchase by the defeate of Tamas forces. This caused him more willingly to grant the truce for which Ferdinand had sent an [ 40] Ambassadge to him to Constantinople, which was confirmed for fiue yeares, on condition that Ferdinand should pay him a yearely tribute of thirty thousand Ducats, for the lands which he possessed in Hungary. The Venetians in this agree∣ment* 1.1397 were on both sides mentioned, which procured them much safety and repu∣tation, especially by that wherein it was expresly said, that none of those that were mentioned, should during the time of the truce, trouble the peace and quiet one of another. There hapned certainly at the same, a matter worthy of note, which was, that our Princes distrusting one another, did of themselues, by diminishing their owne reputation, encrease the authority and pride of the common enemy. For the Emperor craued that the French King might be mentioned in that agree∣ment, [ 50] * 1.1398 and enioyned to performe that which the late King Francis his father had promised him, and on the other side, the King did earnestly labour to haue it ex∣pressed in that treaty, that the Emperor, during the time of the truce, should not make war vpon any Christian Prince, & the matter went on so sar, that although

the treaty was in a manner concluded: King Henry did with speed send the Lord of Cottignac his Ambassador to Constantinople to crosse the accord, saying, that the Emperor had not consented to the truce for any other end, but that hee might with more ease make warre vpon him, whereby Soliman was to be aduised and not suffer the Emperors power so much to encrease, who would neuer haue entertained the truce, had hee not thought to profit himselfe thereby. The Lord of Cottignac vsed the same speech at Venice as he passed along, exhorting the Senate to vse meanes that this treaty, without that clause, might be of none effect,* 1.1399 which the Venetians making small account of, he went forward to Constantino∣ple, where finding the truce to bee concluded and finished, hee did neuerthelesse [ 10] obtaine letters from Soliman to the Emperor, and to Ferdinand, written very im∣periously, but with a stile fit for a great and iust Prince; how that hee had willing∣ly granted the truce, with an intent that there should bee a sur•…•…ease of armes on all sides, betwixt those who were friends to either party, and therefore if any of the Princes, mentioned in the accord, should goe about to molest one another by armes, hee would giue ayde and succour to the party offended, against the distur∣ber of the peace.

The French King in this businesse had diuerse suspitions of the Venetians, who beeing desirous speedily to conclude that accord, wherein they were to bee men∣tioned, had without caring for the King their friends interest, too much fauoured [ 20] the Emperor and Ferdinands party: and on the other side, the Emperor complai∣ned of them, saying, That they had first giuen that councell to the French King, and afterwards fauoured it at Constantinople, to the end he might be more strict∣ly enioined to be at peace with the French King, by reason that they were desirous to take away all occasion of warre in Italy, which was so highly displeasing vnto them. At the same time, the discontents betwixt the Pope and the Emperor were much encreased, and men did already perceiue great signes of warre betwixt them two, by reason that the Emperor continued in his resolution, that the Coun∣cell should bee speedily held (according as it had been published) in the Citty of Trent, as well to satisfie the Almains who desired it, as because hee supposed that [ 30] his reputation would be impaired, if the Councell already published at Trent by his authority, should contrary to his pleasure bee held else-where: & on the other side, the Pope no lesse constant in his opinion, would haue it to be kept at Bolog∣nia, whether diuerse Bishops and Prelates by his commandement were already come, but although the Pope had commanded the Imperials to depart from Trent and to come to Bolognia, saying, That the Emperor without all doubt, was Protector of the Councell, but that hee had no authority to conuoke it, did neuerthelesse, tarry still at Trent, obeying the Emperors authority and command,* 1.1400 who on the contrary sent to the Prelats that were at Bolognia, and to the Popes selfe, making great protestations: and to haue more apparence on his side, hee [ 40] caused the Cardinal of Trent, of the family of Madrucis, a Prince of the Empire, to go to Rome, where he protested that he would not allow any other councell, then that which had bin published to be held in the citty of Trent, and if they should go about to crosse that, and thereby be cause of infinite other miseries, he did request to be acquitted of it before God and men. These things being very greeuous to the Pope, and hapning presently vpon the neck of the bad successe of Parma, did greatly trouble him: yet neuerthelesse his hope of agreement with the Emperor did make him proceed more slowly therein. But during these delaies and prolon∣gations, Octauio beeing impatient of staying any longer for the euent of the busi∣nesse, concerning the recouery of Parma, after that he had attempted in vaine to [ 50] reduce it vnder his obedience, his entry into the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 hauing bin denied by Ca∣millo Vrsino, who commanded the citty, did on a sodain determine by a precipate councell, to throw himselfe into the armes of the same Spaniards of whom he had receiued so many wrongs, that he might be able (as the Emperors Ambassodor at

Rome had craftily perswaded him) by meanes of their Armes to get that Citty: at which strange action the Pope greatly wondering, and by reason of the greefe thereof, together with his weaknesse and great age keeping his bed, hee beeing foure score and foure yeares old, did within a few dayes after depar•…•… out of this mortall life, after hee had with great commendations gouerned the sea Aposto∣lick fifteene yeares, hauing euer shewed himselfe a good and discreet Prince, and a louer of good and vertuous people, and aboue all other things, hee had for a* 1.1401 time remained neuter betwixt those Princes beeing very desirous of peace and quiet. The Popes death did put the Italian Princes in great feare, that it would be cause of the disquiet of Italy, seeing that the French and the Imperials did in di∣uerse [ 10] places leuy forces, meaning (as it was thought) to recouer the Citty of Par∣ma, which Camillo Vrsino did still possesse, but with a very weake garrison and* 1.1402 small prouision, for the maintenance of the warre, who would not obey the let∣ters and commandements of the colledge of Cardinals, who had willed him to consigne that Citty into the hands of Octauio Farnese, who promised to keepe it for the future Pope. This feare of troubles encreased by reason of the long time that the Cardinals spent in the creation of a new Pope, for the two factions of Cardinals French and Imperials, did obstinately striue one with another.

The Venetian Senate in these long disputations, according to the custome of their ancestors would not meddle therein, but ayming onely at the common [ 20] good, did write to the colledge of Cardinals, exhorting them to choose a Pope that might bee for the wealth and commodity of Christendome. The Venetians as well aduised, haue neuer sought to haue Cardinals partiall on their sides, nor haue medled in the creation of Popes, although they had as much interest therei•…•… as any other Prince, for they beeing in the number of the chiefest Potentates of Italy, there is no doubt but if they were desirous to haue a hand in it, that their faction would be one of the strongest: but they considered the great mischiefes which the Common-wealth might receiue by such f•…•…iendship and intelligence with particular persons in the Court of Rome, and how that this word faction hatcht at Rome about Ecclesiasticall dignities, might afterwards slippe among [ 30] them and infect the Common-wealth: and this is the reason why they haue ab∣stained from it. Now after a long strife, Giouan Maria Cardinall of Monte, was* 1.1403 for his sanctity created Pope, who was borne at Mont S. Seue in•…•… in Tuscany, a man who obteining the dignity of Cardinal, not by fauour of Nobility, or help of kindred, was reputed to be very vertuous, and especially to be a man newter: the Venetians being very ioyfull for this election, were perswaded, that he depending no more on the Emperor then on the French King, they might procure him to hold them both for friends, and mediate likewise betwixt them, and especially in Italy, a firme peace. Wherevpon the Senate did speedily write to Matteo Dandulo their Ambassador at Rome, to congratulate Pope Iul•…•…us (for so the new Pope [ 40] would be termed, who was the third of that name) with great demonstration of friendship and entire affection: then within a while after, determining to send a solemne Ambassage to him, to present their vsual and due obedience, foure of the chiefe Senators were chosen, namely Philippo Tron, Francesco Contaren, Marc-An∣tonio Venieri, and Nicolao de Ponte. But the effects did in no sort answer the hope* 1.1404 which men had conceiued of this new Pope, and especially in that all men did ex∣pect & desire, namely, that he would appease the troubles, & prouide for the quiet of Christendom, and for the safety of Italy. For addicting himselfe to buildings and other vaine matters, he seemed to contemne serious things, and such as besee∣med the ranck & grade which he held, and the miserable condition of those times, [ 50] in which Christendome was in diuerse places much afflicted. For notwithstanding that peace ensued betwixt France and England; all men did neuerthelesse, per∣ceiue that the same peace was the beginning of a farre greater warre. For 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the French King beeing greedy of Fame, and finding him-selfe freed from

the warre with the English, hauing recouered the towne of Bulloigne, could not long liue in quiet: for Horatio Farnese comming into France to entreate his Ma∣iestie* 1.1405 to take his house, himselfe, and brother into his protection, and to defend and keepe the Citty of Parma, things which had beene already motioned by others, he was very kindly welcommed, and the King did embrace his protection vpon certaine conditions, beeing desirous to disturbe the peace of Italy, where∣by he might afterwards haue a more open occasion to take armes against the Em∣peror, hoping more-ouer (although the matter fell out very diuersly) that it would open him away, either to vnite himselfe more strictly with the Pope, or at least to disioyne him from the Emperor, by taking vpon him to defend a vassall of [ 10] the Church, whom the Emperor went about to oppresse and ruine, the Popes entreaties beeing of no force to make him desist from his enterprise; by meanes whereof, fire was already much kindled in the heart of Italy.

King Ferdinand on the other side, hoping vnder coullor of some contention betwixt the Barons of the Realme of Hungary, and certaine rebellion hapned in Transiluania, to bee able to impatronize that Prouince, departed from August•…•… (vpon sundry promises of ayde which the Emperor had made to him, the better to induce him to quit the succession of the Empire to his sonne Philip) and went into Austria, where he had already assembled a Dyet to leuy men and money for such an enterprize: it was besides reported, that Soliman at his returne from Per∣sia [ 20] to Constantinople, could not endure, that the young King of Hungary, who was vnder his protection, should be so dispoiled of part of his dominions: as also* 1.1406 for that hee accounted the fiue yeares truce to haue beene broken by Doria, who •…•…ad taken certaine places fro•…•… him in Affrick, held by Dragut, which he had man∣ned with Spanish Garrisons: •…•…o, that all these things beeing exactly considered, were presages of great warres.

These accidents did greatly displease the Venetians, and by so much the more, as they were in hope to prolong the truce for a longer time, Soliman beeing come to Constantinople, beeing willing to shew how desirous hee was to continue friend to the Venetians, sent a Chiaus to Venice, to acquaint them with his re∣turne [ 30] * 1.1407 from Persia, & with his happy successe, ex•…•…olling (according to the manner of that nation) all his exploits done there, saying, That in regard hee found the Persians stronger then he expected, his attempts had not succeeded to his desire. The Senate, beeing desirous still to enterteine Solimans friendship, resolued to do the like by him, and to send an Ambassador to his Port; wherevpon Catherin Zene was appointed to that end, who although he was foure score and foure yeares of* 1.1408 age, did not refuse to vndertake so long and tedious a iourney for the seruice of his coun•…•…rey: His Ambassage was to great purpose, for by his wisdom he caused to be troden vnder foot the complaints which the Turkes made for the death of Saba R•…•…is, so often reiterated, wherevpon, Soliman promised that it should neuer more bee remembred. [ 40]

In this manner was the yeare 1550. spent, famous of it selfe ouer all Christen∣dome,* 1.1409 it beeing the yeare of Iubilee, but it was more noted by the publication of the Councell of Trent, whither speedily from all places diuerse Prelates began to come: then there hapned a great dearth of corne, which was in a manner gene∣rall,* 1.1410 but greater in Italy then in other places: whereby it behooued Princes to open their treasures for the reliefe of their poore subiects, and in particular the Signiory of Venice, who prouiding with singular bounty and affection for the necessity of the people of the Citty, and other their subiects, gaue great guifts to such as brought come to Venice, to prouoke those of forraine countries to [ 50] 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, which was afterwards distributed among other Townes of their obedience.

The yeare following 1551. did open great warres ouer all Italy, whereof the* 1.1411 Pope by his 〈◊〉〈◊〉, rather then of malice, was the chiefe Author, who by

little and little falling from his first resolution, did publish monitories against Octanio Farnese, (of whom not long before himselfe had taken vpon him the de∣fense and tuition) accusing and cursing the French Kings protection of the citty of Parma, although that (according to the common report) when hee was made* 1.1412 acquainted therewith, hee seemed to allow it, or at least in no sort to contradict it. Hee did not consider how that by his ordinary reuiling of the French and the Farneses, he did enforce them to league themselues more strictly together, and to augment their forces, which hee hauing no meanes to resist, in that hee had not prouided in time, was enforced to haue recourse to the Emperor, who for the very selfe same matter of Parma was displeased with him. [ 10]

Hee was by little and little falne into these inconueniences, by the craft of the the Imperials, (vnknowne to him,) his owne seruants, in regard of their particular profit, not caring to let him know the truth, giuing credit to the dissimulation of other men, and enterteining him in the meane time with vaine suspitions: where∣by, without knowing it, he had in a manner giuen ouer his neutrallity, and had gi∣uen occasion of disturbing that peace, for which hee had so much sought to pur∣chase fame and glory. The Venetians had often dealt with his Holynesse for the appeasi•…•…g of these troubles, fore-seeing the long and dangerous warre that might proceed from them, hapning then in a bad time for Italy, in regard of Solimans [ 20] great preparations to enuade Christendome by sea and land: and by putting him in minde, that it was his duty, as the common father, to mediate peace betwixt Princes, and in no sort to shew himselfe partiall, but neuter, as he had determined at the beginning, they caused him to consent to procure some accord: Where∣vpon within a while after, hee sent the Cardinall of Medicis to Parma, who was brother to the Marquis of Marignan, and kinsman to the Duke of Parma, offering* 1.1413 to giue him the Dutchy of Camerin and Nepi in recompence of Parma, the which should remaine to the Church, whereof hee forthwith aduertised the Em∣peror, assuring him that the Venetians councel had made him to resolue thereon: the Pope supposing that the Emperor would easily condiscend to that agree∣ment, as well because it was reasonable, as for feare likewise, that by refusing it, he [ 30] should league himselfe against him, and augment the French faction in Italy, which would bee dangerous for the kingdome of Naples, in regard of the great troubles raised there at the same time.

It was thought that the Emperor was willing of himselfe to haue granted it,* 1.1414 but that he was altered by his seruants and officers, and especially by Don Diego de Mendoza his Ambassador at Rome, and by Don Ferrant de Gonzaga Gouernor of the State of Milan, shewing therein (as it was openly spoken) their particular hatred to the Ferneses. But the Pope perceiuing that it did not please the Empe∣ror, and not daring for feare of his forces to displease him, fell to his former re∣solution, to pursue the Farneses by Armes, who beeing already strictly allyed to [ 40] the French King, would no more accept of that offer. Warre then beeing kind∣led in Italy, the French King hauing sent ayde to the Farneses, and the Emperor to the Pope, it increased in such sort, as the Pope entring into some distrust of the Emperors deseignes and actions, detesting openly his officers manner of proceedings, repented for what hee had done, and sought occasions to with-draw himselfe from him: Wherevpon hee determined to send his nephew Ascanio de la Cornia to the French King, to perswade him to lay downe Armes, and to con∣sent to some agreement, by putting him in minde of the difficulty of his enter∣prize, defending a Citty so farre off from his kingdome: not long after, hee sent* 1.1415 Achilles de Grassis to Venice, whose comming, although it seemed to be only for [ 50] the iustifying of his actions, and in counter change of so many good offices which the Venetians had done to him, was neuerthelesse to entreat them to bee a meanes to draw the French King and the Duke to some agreement; which the Senate did not greatly deny, so as they might see any hope of beeing able therby

to aduance the common good. Now Ascanio beeing returned from France, re∣ported that the King had vsed many goodly speeches, and seemed willing of a∣greement, and had likewise caused Octauio to giue consent that Parma should returne to the Church, prouided that the Emperor would doe the like by the Castles and strong Townes which hee held vppon the Parmesan; and that hee would not with-draw his forces from Parma, till such time as hee were well assu∣red, that it should neuer more returne vnder the Emperors power: Wherevpon sundry difficulties arising, all men perceiued that the proposition tended onely to* 1.1416 draw the businesse out in length, and to weaken the affaires of warre, rather then to any firme peace: so as at last, al their care on either side, was to strengthen [ 10] themselues with soldiers and other necessary things for warre.

The King still sent troopes into Italy vnder the command of the Duke of Neuers and other Captaines, causing Pietro Strossi to make an other leuie of sol∣diers in Mirandola. The Pope and the Emperor did the like, so as those two Ar∣mies, Ecclesiasticall and Imperial, beeing ioyned together, amounted well neere to fifteene thousand footmen, with great numbers of horse, of whom Don Fer∣rant* 1.1417 de Gonzaga was Generall: but Strossi his wit and dilligence was to bee admi∣red, who on a sodaine going forth of Mirandola, entred vppon the Bolognois, scouring and wasting the Countrey with such terror, as the Pope beginning to stand in doubt not onely of Bolognia, but likewise of Rauenna and other places [ 20] in Romagnia, was compelled to call his forces foorth of the Parmesan, and to command them to goe speedily to the Bolognois, to the reskew of their fellowes, whereof Strossi taking aduantage, did with great speed march towards the Par∣mesan, and entred with great numbers of footmen, and store of victualls into Parma; in regarde whereof, the assailants beeing out of hope to take it of a long time, did perceiue that the warre would long continue.

The Venetians in the meane time looking warily to all matters, and not wil∣ling by any means to depend on any but on themselues, determined to leuy foure thousand foot, and fiue hundred light horse, with whom hauing encreased the garrisons of their frontier townes, and caused most of their best Captaines to [ 30] goe thither, they were watchfull for the guard of whatsoeuer did belong vnto them. The Duke of Florence on the other side, beeing greatly obliged to the* 1.1418 Emperor, did openly fauour his party both with men and money, not with any intent to feed this fire, which hee would willingly haue seene quenched, but be∣cause hee would not haue him thinke sinisterly of him: for he likewise, with the other Princes of Italy, did not allow of the behauiour of the Emperors officers, nor yet of his desiegnes, suspecting them very much, and especially in regard of a new Castle which he had lately built in Sienna, which was commonly termed, Il Ceppo délla Toscana.

As for the Duke of Ferrara, although as a vassall to the Church, it behooued [ 40] him to beare himselfe discreetly in that businesse, yet neuerthelesse following his owne passion, hee did secretly ayde the French faction: Wherevpon, the Impe∣rialls, to keepe all succours from the besieged on that side, did seaze vpon Brissel∣les, and on two other small Castles of the Dukes, seated on the frontier: Where∣with* 1.1419 the Duke being greatly mooued, sent Ieronimo Serafino his Ambassador to Venice, to craue (as he said) the Senates aduise, after what manner hee should behaue himselfe in so miserable a time, resoluing to follow their councell, and especially in their neutrallity: but finding himselfe too weake of himselfe to doe it, hee feared, vnlesse hee were releeued, to bee enforced, for the conseruation of his owne State, to ioyne himselfe with some one or other, and to deale otherwise [ 50] then hee desired.

This demand was thought to be very suspitious and ful of cunning, they suppo∣sing that the French went about by this meanes to sound their meaning, the better to draw them to some confederacie, or at least to discouer some-what

of their interior purposes: wherupon the Senate was of opinion to answer him in generall termes. Now it had aboue all thinges desired the peace of Italy, and that to those ends it had vsed al possible means with the Pope, and others besides, according as it had seene occasion: but 〈◊〉〈◊〉 nothing preuailed therein, they were at least resolued to keep themselues in peace and in their ancient neutrality, and the better and more honorably to doe it, and with greater assurance, other men being armed, they thought it •…•…it to arme; and by prouiding for that which* 1.1420 concerned them, had together taken care for the preseruation of the Dukes state, in regard of the particular affection they did beare him, and for their owne inte∣rest likewise, being in manner inseparable with his by reason of the neere neigh∣borhood [ 10] of their States. This answere not satisfyieng the French, they resolued to discouer themselues more plainely to the Senate, seeing that all men knew that they did meane to en terprize some matter of consequence vpon Italy, for which Lodouico Alemani beeing sent to Genoa, had vnder sundry pretences attempted to raise his faction there, and craued in the Kings name, that it might please the Genouois to lend him their hauen, for his fleet to lie in safety, where hee might land those troops which he intended to send into Italy. Now the Cardinall Tour∣non beeing at the same time at Venice, whither he came from Rome, vpon the Popes commandement that all the French Cardinals should leaue the Citty, King Henry wrote vnto him that he should in his name expose to the Prince and [ 20] Senate in open Councell, the State of the affaires of Italy, the occasion and in∣tent, for which, and with which he had resolued to send his troopes to the aid of Duke Octauio, and to defend his cause, That hee thought he should performe: a* 1.1421 noble part, and worthy a great Prince, and which in particular ought to be plea∣sing to the Princes of Italy, to defend an Italian Prince, weake, and vniustly op∣pressed by the violence of other men, who had cast himselfe into his armes and protection: that he could hardly be perswaded that the Pope would hinder the defense and preseruation of his owne vassall with an other mans armes and aid, seeing he himselfe was able to giue him small releefe: and that beeing so defended he could least of all beleeue that the other Italian Princes would crosse him in go∣ing [ 30] about to moderate the Emperors greatnesse, and curbe his vnmeasurable de∣sires, aiming (as all men did plainly see) to rob weake Princes of their States, and to bring Italy into bondage: that the matter it selfe was able to giue sufficient tes∣timony that his deseignes tended to none other ends, seing that he stood vpon those termes, that without needing the Citty of Parma, possessing so many town•…•…s in Piedmont, the passages lay open to himt through which hee might march against the State of Milan: but, because hee then knew, that his actions were sinisterly interpreted, he was resolued to giue ouer that enterprize: yet ne∣uerthelesse he could not be perswaded but that the Venetian Senate, beeing so great and wise a Prince in Italy, on whose authority all others were at last to de∣pend, [ 40] would be mooued with these troubles which drew after them sundry o∣thers of very great importance: that he did excuse that which the Pope had done as falling out by constraint, rather then of set purpose, being incompassed with feare in the midest of the Emperors power and armed forces, as also in regard of the Councel already published, with very dangerous deseignes, the Hereticks of* 1.1422 Germany being come to it: but when his Holinesse should be assured that other men would aid him, it was not then to be doubted but that hee would embrace some other resolution; seeing that to quit the Emperors friendship in such a case might rightly be termed, a setting of himselfe at liberty. The Senate gaue the King thankes and did highly commend his generous deseigne of defending [ 50] such as are destitute of helpe: yet they were in good hope that by an accord al∣ready treated of with the pope, who did not resist it those businesses might in som sort be composed. The King notwithstanding, continued the war although contrary to his desire he found none in al Italy Octa•…•…io •…•…arnese excepted, whom

hee might bee assured did fauour him, but resoluing to declare him-selfe after∣wards more openly against the Emperor, hauing sent other forces into Pied∣mont, hee did vnlookt•…•… for cause diuerse places to bee assailed which were kept by the Imperialls, some of which hee tooke, hee did at the same time proclaime warre by sea, commanding the Prior of Capua brother to Pietro 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Admirall of the French Galleys, that scouring the seas hee should fight with the Emperors vessels: whereby it happened within a while after, that Doria w•…•…th his Galleys conducting Maximillian King of Boheme and his wife from Barcelona to Genoa, he hardly escaped the French fleet, yet neuerthelesse some of his vessels that lod'g behinde were taken and brought to Marseilles. But the Kings treaty with Duke [ 10] Maurice of Saxony, Albert Marquis of Brandenbourg, and other Princes, and* 1.1423 free Citties of Germany, was of fa•…•…re greater importance, all these beeing mer∣ueilously distasted of the Emperor, though vpon sundry occasions, some beeing not able to digest the wrong done to the Landgraue, whom the Emperor kept prisoner contrary to his promise, and others, beeing prouoked against the Empe∣ror, for matters of Religion.

King Henry resoluing vpon this league, and hauing imparted it to Giouan Ca∣pello the Venetians Ambassador resident with his Maiesty, hee did assure him that hee would in person goe into Germany, earnestly entreating him to follow him thither, to the end, (as it was supposed) that hee might haue occasion to practise [ 20] some confederacy with the Venetians, or at least to keepe the Emperor in perpe∣tuall iealouzie and suspition. The Senate, although it had determined not to en∣ter into any farther allyance with the French, did thinke it against reason to deny the King that, as well to shew their good meaning towards him, as in regard of the profit and commodity which the Republick might receiue thereby, to the end that the Emperor, who by reason of Parma and Placentia, and other his actions, which all Italians did greatly suspect, might know, that a more strict alliance might bee easily contracted betwixt the French and the Venetians, to the great danger and preiudice of his Estates in Italy. The Pope in the meane time beeing mooued with these troubles, and considering that himselfe hauing beene the [ 30] motiue thereof, by reason of Parma, all men did blame him for the warre which* 1.1424 hee had raised in Christendome, and whose successe beeing different, himselfe was to beate a part in it, determined to send two Cardinalls to those Princes, as Le∣gats from the sea Apostolick, to weet, Verale to the French King, and Carpi to the Emperor, to exhort them to lay by all hatred and malice, and all desire of making any more warre one vpon another: how that the taking of Tripoli, and diuerse other great warlike preparations of the Turkes for Christendome, ought to excite them to firme peace and friendship.

But the flame was already growne so great, as all his exhortations could not quench it, although the French King for his part gaue some hope thereof, and [ 40] had within a while after sent the Cardinall Tournon to Rome, to prosecute the treaty of accord, and that the Venetian Senate was entreated to haue an hand therein: yet, all men might perceiue that hee was more disposed to warre then to peace, and that all his practises tended to draw the Pope to his party, and to make him a companion in the war which he intended against the Emperor, who on the other side, suspecting these treaties of peace, had re-enforced his army that lay at the siege of Parma, thinking that it would greatly blemish his reputation, if du∣ring these practises, they should surprise and take him vnprouided. The Pope on the other side, being in great doubt & feare for that hee was disioyned from the Emperor, and vncertaine of the friendship of the French, knew not what to re∣solue [ 50] vpon, yet neuerthelesse beeing mooued by the Emperors great power, and already tied vnto him by a particular confederacie, thought it best to make shew of that was not, and in no sort to seeme to doubt of his friendship. Hee did after∣wards create diuerse Cardinals at his deuotion all Imperialls, vsing in open

Consistory very bitter speeches against against the French King, detesting sun∣dry of his actions, and especially his alliance and friendship with the Turkes, so as the King beeing out of hope to haue him for his friend, dismissed his Legat from his Court, and called home the Lord of Termes his Ambassador at Rome,* 1.1425 threatning both the Pope and the whole Romaine Court; forbidding his sub∣iects to send any more to Rome for Bulls concerning benefices, saying, That it was against reason to make warre on his kingdome with his owne money.

At the same time a very great and mighty Turkish Fleet departed forth of the Hauen of Constantinople, commanded by Sinan Bascha, and Rusten the visier Bascha with diuers other Captaines of authority and experience. Vpon report [ 10] * 1.1426 thereof, the Senate did augment the number of their forces with seauen and for∣ty Galleis, as beeing vncertaine what way the Turkes would take, and Stefano Tepulo was for the second time chosen Generall. But the Turkish Fleete sayled peaceably through the Channell of Corfou, and held on it course towards Sice∣ly, where the Bascha was desirous to know of the Viceroy, what account the Em∣peror* 1.1427 made of restoring the townes which Doria had taken in Affricke the yeare before, and beeing answered that hee did meane to keepe them, to take away those places of retreats from Pirats, who did ordinarily scoure those seas, hee lan∣ded great numbers of souldiers, who tooke and sackt the City of Augusta, carry∣ing away with him from that Sea-coast great number of prisoners, whom they [ 20] made slaues, from thence the Fleet sayled to Malta, which they hauing begunne to batter, and finding the interprize to bee very difficult, hee did on a sodaine re∣embarke his Souldiers and Artillery, and went to Goze, a smale Island eyght miles distant from Sicely, the which was likewise spoyled and wasted, and the Ca∣stell taken by force, although it was man'd with a strong Garrison: from thence sayling into Barbary, it stayed before Tripoli, which after some small battery was yeelded by the Knights of Malta, that commanded there, who with some of the cheefe inhabitance of the towne escaped into the French Galleis which fol∣lowed the Turkish Fleet, great cruelty beeing vsed vppon those that tarried behind, contrary to the promise made vnto them. [ 30]

This is all which the Turkes did at sea, but at land on the parts of Hungary and Transiluania, the Christians were strongest, for King Ferdinand by the helpe of Giouan Battista Gastalda, Sforza Palauicin, and other his Captaines, made himselfe maister of all Transiluania, and of the County and Citty of Temisuar: the which lands although they belonged to yong King Stephen, and to the wid∣dow Queene his mother, were neuer-the-lesse vnder Solimans protection, who* 1.1428 first sent the Bas•…•…ha of Buda and after him the Beglerbey of Grecia, with great numbers of horse to driue Ferdinands troopes from thence, but all their attempts were for that time to no purpose. A certaine Frier, called George, who serued the young King, did by his authority and good councell much further that enter∣prize, [ 40] by whose aduice, not-with-standing that the cheefe of the kingdome were of a contrary opinion, aduising the Queene to tarry for the Turkish succours, which were expected, she all amazed resolued to quitte Transiluania to King Ferdinand, and in recompence thereof, to take the Dutchy of Opelia, hee pro∣mising her to giue his Daughter in marriage to the King her sonne, so soone* 1.1429 as hee should bee of age: so that Ferdinands souldiers hauing fortified them∣selues in Transiluania and Temisuar, could not bee driuen from thence by the Turkish succors that came thither afterwards, who beeing compelled by the ex∣tremity of winter, did wholy giue ouer the enterprize, and returned with small credit and reputation. [ 50]

In regard of the selfe same commodity of winter, all exployts of warre ceased in Italy, notwithstanding, that Parma and Miranda were still beseeged without any further progression.

The yeare following 1552. the Emperor Charles and Ferdinand his brother

were threatned with great warres, whereby they were to defend their owne States and dominions. All Germany in a manner was banded against Charles, the Al∣maines hauing resolued in a Dyet to driue him by force forth of all Germany, and to elect a new Emperor, because he (as they said) had done diuerse things to the preiudice of the Empire, and against the liberty of Germany. King Ferdinand* 1.1430 was likewise greatly perplexed, by reason of the great warlike preparation which Soliman made to enuade Hungary and Transiluania, the which hee knew not how to resist, despairing of all ayde from the Emperor his brother, as well for that hee was busied else-where, as also in regard of the discontent betwixt them, because Ferdinand would not quit the succession of the Empire to Philip sonne to the [ 10] Emperor, and his Nephew: therefore seeking by other meanes to prouide for the safety of his owne, he vsed meanes to appease Soliman, by offering to pay him an* 1.1431 other yearely tribute of thirty thousand Ducats for Transiluania, as he already did for those lands which hee possessed in Hungary.

In the meane time, the better to assure himselfe against the rebellions and com∣motions which were then made, & all intelligences which the Turkes might haue vpon those newly conquered countreys, hee caused good guard to bee kept, and that all such as went and came too and fro, should be narrowly obserued: where∣by he discouered that Frier George, who at his entreaty had beene made Bishop of Varadine, and afterwards Cardinall, beeing spurd forward by new ambition, [ 20] had secret intelligence with certaine Baschus, and did fauour the Turkes party, as∣piring to appropriate that Prouince to himselfe, vnder Solimans protection: this* 1.1432 beeing verified, he determined to put him to death, & hauing giuen charge there∣of to Sforza Palauician be with one more entered on a day into the Cardinals Chamber to entreat him to signe a passe-port, and whilest hee was subscribing it, both of them fell vpon him and slew him.

The news thereof beeing brought to Rome, the Pope, and the whole Colledge of Cardinals were greatly offended with it, wherevpon King Ferdinand, with all those who had beene consenting to his death, were excommunicated: but the King offering to iustifie himselfe, and to prooue, that if hee had not dyed all Chri∣stendome [ 30] would haue been in danger to haue receiued great losse, he alone, at the Emperors intreaty was absolued, and none of the rest.

Now the report of Solimans great warlike preparations at Constantinople,* 1.1433 which were making ready against the Spring tiime, did hold all men in doubt; because they did not certainly know for what place that Army was destin'd, nor what Solimans desiegnes therein were. It more troubled the Venetians then any else, in regard of the great expences and perplexities of minde which the com∣ming forth of those fleetes from Constantinople had procured them, causing them stillto bee well prouided: therefore they chose Stephano Tepulo for their Ge∣rall the third time, they did re-enforce their Garrisons in the Islands and other sea [ 40] townes, they caused certaine Galleys to be armed in Candy, and to haue store of them they speedily commanded new to bee built in the Arcenall. The Senate appointed twenty Captaines for their Galleys, and the great Councell as many Lieutenants, to the end all matters might bee well ordered, and that their fleete, if need were, might be encreased with the number of an hundred Galleys.

The end of the fifth Booke of the sixth Decade.

[ 50]

The Contents of the sixth Booke of [ 10] the sixth Decad.

THE French Kings great Army where hee was in per∣son to back the Protestants of Germany against the Emperor. The French take the Citty of Me•…•…z. The Protestants great forces. The French King ouer run∣neth the Countrey of Luxembourg. The Prince of [ 20] Salerno commeth into France, to incite the King to the enterprise of Naples: The Emperor is enforced by the Protestants to retir•…•… and escape by flight. Peace betwixt the Emperor and the Germaine Princes. The French King soliciteth the Venetians against the Emperor. The Almaines doe band themselues against the French King, for the citties of Metz, Thou, and Verdun. The Emperor besiegeth Metz. The Spaniards are driuen from Siena. The death of Edward the sixt King of England. The election of Pope Paul the fourth, of the family of Caraffa. [ 30] Siena is surrendred to the Emperor. The Pope declaring himselfe for the French King, is assailed by the Duke of Alua. The Duke of Guise commeth into Italy with great forces. Peace betwixt the Pope and the Spaniards. The death of the Emperor Charles the fift, of his two Sisters, and of Mary Queene of England. Peace betwixt the French King and the King of Spain. The death of Henry the second French King. The death of Pope Paul the fourth. The Creation of Pope Pius the 4. The Cardinall Caraffa with [ 40] three of his kinsmen are put to death. The Ouerture of the Councell of Trent. Charles the ninth French King. Strife betwixt the French and Spanish Ambassadors in the Councell, is appeased by the Pope. A strange matter hap∣pening at Rome. And lastly the death of the Emperor Ferdinand.

The sixth Booke of the sixth Decad [ 10] of the Historie of Venice.

ALL these great warlike preparations made by the Turkes, could not cause the Christian Princes to make peace a∣mong themselues, but on the contrary it seemed that the French King was more prouoked thereby to molest the Emperor, whilest he saw him busied in answering the Tur∣kish forces. For continuing in his determination to passe [ 20] into Germany, hee perswaded himselfe that the Emperor, beeing assailed in so many sundry places, and especially by the Germaine Princes, who had all conspired against him; would, to free himselfe from so many dangers, condiscend to some accord, by surrendring vnto him some State or other in Italy or else where, to which the crowne of France laid some claime.

Hauing then assembled forty thousand footmen of sundry nations, and foure thousand horse, he marched towards the countrey of Lorraine, whither the Con∣stable of Montmorencie beeing already gone before, had seazed on the Citty of* 1.1434 Metz, an Imperiall citty, which was gouerned by the Bishop and some principall [ 30] townsinen, and the King comming thither afterwards, was very honorably enter∣tained. Hee remained for a while with his Armie in those parts, to stop the Fle∣mish troopes leuyed by Queene Mary, sister to the Emperor, from hindering his deseignes, or till the consederate Germaine Princes should set forward, who had already begun their enterprise prosperously, the Citty of Ausbourg beeing at their deuotion, and passing speedily forwards without delay, thorow the Duke of Bauarias countrey, had greatly amazed the Emperor and King Ferdinand, who were then at Ispruch, so, as they presently resolued to retire to some place of safe∣ty: but beeing afterwards encouraged, and hauing fortified certaine narrow pas∣sages of the Mountaines, thorow which the enemies were to passe vnto them, [ 40] they determined not to stirre from thence.

The French King beeing aduertised of the Emperors amazement, with that of Ferdinand his brother, and of their enemies progression, thought it best not to let slip the occasion offered, the Emperor beeing weake both in courage and sor∣ces: Wherevpon he resolued to march towards the riuer Rhine, to encourage their confederates, and to fauour their enterprise, intending likewise to passe on* 1.1435 farther if need should bee. But beeing come to the riuers side, hee receiued news that made him turne back againe: for the Confederates thinking themselues strong enough to expell the Emperor, and desiring to keepe forraine sorces forth of their countreys, for feare of receiuing some discommodine thereby, [ 50] thought it fit that Duke Maurice should write to the King, how that they had al∣ready agreed with the Emperor, whereby they had obteyned their desire, and that there remained nothing more for them to doe, but to thanke him most hartily for the great pleasure hee had done them, for the which all Germany

should owe a perpetuall bond and remembrance to the Croune of France. These newes did trouble the King, who saw his hope frustrate besides the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and expences of such a iourney: yet neuerthelesse beeing vnwilling to keepe his troopes idle he marched toward the Dutchy of Luxembourg, where he conque∣red* 1.1436 diuers places of importance, and among others, the Castle of Monualier, ac∣counted the key of that countrey, in which the Count Man•…•…felt was taken, who was Gouernour thereof for the Emperor. Then propounding to himselfe other important deseignes, he determined to fashion himselfe in some sort to the Pope that he might disioyne him from the Emperor, wherby he obtained at last, that for Parma and Mirandola, there should be betwixt the Sea Apostolicke, and the [ 10] Croune of France a suspention of Armes for two yeares.* 1.1437

During these practises the Prince of Salerno came to the Kinges Campe, who propounding vnto him the enterprize of Naples, his Maiesty did willingly har∣ken vnto it, entring into discourse with him what forces would be sufficient, and what meanes were to be vsed for the execution of that enterprize: for which the Prince hauing made great offers to the King and promised diuers matters, groun∣ded chiefly vpon the peoples desire to shake of the Spanish yoake, and to cast themselues betwixt his armes, the King concluded that he should be the cheife of* 1.1438 that enterprize.

This Prince leauing the Realme of Naples by reason of some conten∣tion [ 20] betwixt him and Don Pedro de Toledo the Viceroy, and for hatred to the Emperor, because hee maintained his enemy against him, came to Padua, where for a time he remained, & then determining to be reuenged of his wrongs and of the small account the Emperor made of him, hee resolued to goe into France: but he was desirous first to passe by Venice to conferre with the Senators concerning his deseignes, that he might the better informe the King of their mea∣ning, conferring the proposition that he intended to make vnto him. And bee∣ing brought vnto the Senate, he began with a long and eloquen•…•… speech, to set forth the occasion which then offered it selfe to them, for the recouery of those* 1.1439 Townes and hauens which they had in former times possessed on the coast of [ 30] Puglia, & for assuring themselues against the Emperors greatnesse; going about thereby to sound their meaning, concerning such an enterprize, if the French King should propound it vnto them: seeing that the Neopolitans were tired with the Spanish gouernment, and wearied with the Viceroyes pride and tyra∣ny, who was not only backt and maintained by the Emperor, but highly reconed and esteemed of him, and cheifly in regard of the inquisition which hee went a∣bout to bring into that Kingdome, to the persecution and ruine of the Nobility; who beeing no longer able to endure such bondage, were resolued to embrace any other party whatsoeuer, rather then to continue vnder the Emperors obe∣dience, who did so contemne and ouer-maister them That the selfe same reasons [ 40] had beene already represented to the French King, who tooke great compassion of their misery and calamtiy: and had likewise as a magnanimous Prince freely embraced their protection, and promised to aid them in all he might, which hee had put off til some other time that he might performe it with such an army as hee desired. Therefore (added this Prince) it behooueth the Venetian Senate more then any others to listen to that enterprize, as an Italian Prince, a louer of liberty, and most potent at Sea, and one that may lay iust claime to some part of that Kingdome: that there was no alliance more profitable to their Common∣wealth then that of the Crowne of France, as thi•…•… ges past could giue them suf∣ficient testimony, and in particular, the King then beeing, who did so deerely [ 50] loue their Republique, as it might hope to obtaine any thing how great so-euer it were.

But what greater commodity, (said he) can bee hoped for, then that which now offereth it selfe? And what greater trouble and vexation of mind can there happen vnto the Emperour, then that where-in hee is presently

wrapped by the warres of Germany, and by the preparations where-with the Turke threatneth his brother Ferdinand? But aboue all other thinges the mature iudgement and wisdome of the Venetian Senate, ought to be well aduised, and not to suffer the Neopolitans, destitute of all aid and succour, to cast themselues headlong by constraint and necessity into a wretched resolution, not only hurt∣full to themselues but much more to others, by hauing recourse to Solimans pro∣tection who was vpon the point of sending a very mighty army into the field they beeing determined so to doe for their last refuge.

All these reasons and re∣monstrances* 1.1440 would not preuaile with the Senators, none amongst them beeing of opinion to accept their offers, whereupon the Prince was dismissed, with this answere, That they did much lament the discommodity of the time, and par∣ticularly [ 10] his owne toyles and sorrowes, extenuating the importance of the businesse, which merited a long and more mature deliberation: yet neuerthelesse this Prince going afterwards (as hath beene said) into France, and acquainting the King with his deleigne, he heard him, and resolued to execute that which hee had propounded. At the same time as the French King did ruminate in his mind cer∣taine doubts concerning that enterprize, he receiued newes which did confirme him to execute it; namely the vexations and trobles where vnto the Emperor was reduced, which were such and so great, as he verily seemed to be forsaken of that good Genius which had euer waited vpon him in all his actions with wonderfull [ 20] * 1.1441 prosperity. Duke Maurice and the other Confederates holding on their way to∣wards Ispruch, and beeing come to the pace of Chiusa neere to Fussen, (which was strong and narrow), in the conseruation whereof the Imperialls had placed their cheefest hope by stopping the enemies passage) they forced and tooke it, o∣pening themselues thereby a way to march to Ispruch without any contradiction. The Emperor, and his brother Ferdinand about midnight receiuing newes of the losse of this place, hauiug but fiue hundred horse with them, did sodainly leaue Ispruch, went towards Persenon, and from thence into the County of Ti∣roll: then hauing inteligence that the enemies were at Ispruch meaning to march on farther they againe •…•…ourneyed through sharpe and steepe mountaines, and tarried in no place till they came to Villac, where they continued in great feare [ 30] and suspition, being aduertised by such as came forth of Italy, that they had seen great numbers of horse & foot in the contrey of Frioul, which made them to suspect tha•…•… the Venetians, ioyned with the French Kings & Almains, had assem∣bled those forces to ouerrun them. This suspition proceeded from the passengers who had seene great numbers of horse which the Sauorgnians had assembled in those partes neere to the Castle of Osoff to meet the Count Gazuoles, and to entertaine him at thei•…•… Castle, who was going to the Emperor.

His maiesty had by so much more giuen credit (as men are easily drawne to be leeue that which they desire or feare) to these reports, in regard of the pur∣suites and practizes of the Prince of Salerno; so, as being councelled whilest hee [ 40] remained at Ispruch, to goe into Italy, he seemed not to allow of that Councell▪ considering with himselfe that there was small safety in passing through the Ve∣netians State: and yet they had neuer lesse will to hurt him then at that time, hating to take aduantage on the aduerse fortune of a great Prince their freind and Confederate, notwithstanding that certaine Germaine Princes had solicited them to take armes against him, offering them tenne thousand footmen and two thousand horse, which the Senate would neuer accept of: but hee being after∣wards informed of the truth of the matter by Dominico Morosin, who in quality of Ambassador had stil attended vpon him, he did commend it, & highly thanked [ 50] the Senare for their loue & good meaning toward him in so hazardous a fortune.

His maiesty then perceiuing that in his greatest desaster the Spanish footmen whom he expected were not arriued turned all his thoughtes vpon peace: and to to this end, the Confederate Princes holding a Diet at Possonia, King Ferdinand

went thither in person to treate of the conditions of peace: But the Protestants desiting to make vse of the time, to abase the Emperors authority and to preserue the liberty and priuiledges of the Princes and free Citties of Germany, made very vnreasonable demands: where vpon the Emperor, sometimes being enfor∣ced by necessity, and so many miseries, did for their satistaction grant their de∣mands, and at other times againe, recalling his vsuall courrage and inuincible constancy, he said that he would rather endure all hazards of Fortune, then grant things vnworthy of himself and his Imperial dignity. In the end standing firme for the matter of Religion, not to innouate any thing in the Citties, which had accep∣ted the interim, nor like wise to submit to the decrees of the new Diets, that which* 1.1442 appertained to the prerogatiues and authority of the Empyre, hee condescended, [ 10] by accepting the accord to the inlargement of the prisoners, and granted a gene∣rall pardon to the rebells. These troubles had put the French King and Prince of Salerne in great hope, to be able to execute the enterprize of Naples: in which they supposing that the Venetians could doe more then any others, the Prince of Salerne returned to Venice, where he and the Lord of Selua, Ambassador for* 1.1443 the King, made new & more earnest practizes, to draw the Common-wealth into a league for that purpose: They declared whatsoeuer they thought might incite the Senate to hate the Emperor, and on the contrary they forgot nothing which [ 20] might serue to insinuate the French King into their fauour, and to extoll him as well in regard of his great forces, as for his loue and affection towards the Repub∣lick: And because they perceiued the Senate to bee resolute to persist in their neutrality, the Lord of Selua embracing the matter with great vehemency: spake thus.

My Lords doe you not perceiue, that it lyeth not in your power to diuert* 1.1444 the King from this enterprise, hee beeing wholy inclined therevnto, either alone, or in your or others company, and whatsoeuer your resolution is, these Princes are to striue together for their fortune▪ to which side soeuer it shall incline, it is to bee feared that your newtrality will not bee able to defend your State, and that [ 30] which belongeth to you, exposed to infinite dangers, beeing equally hated of the victor and vanquished: of the one, because that when you had meanes to assist him, you did not respect his misery, nor vouchsafed to doe it: of the other, for that enuying his wealth and prosperitie, you would not ioyne with him. And what can my King presume eyther of you, and of your so ancient (as you terme it) and deere friendship, if to your owne profit and commodity yee accept not his offers, full of affection and good will, and grant not his honest and iust de∣mands? What hope may hee haue of your friendship in aduersity, if you make so small account of him in his prosperity? What fitter or more commodious occasion can you expect for the aduancement of your Common-wealth, or for your assurance against the Emperors redoubred power, if you reiect that which [ 40] is now offered? How often vppon lesse occasion, haue your Ancestors and your selues, to the immortall praise of your Senates magnanimity taken armes? Perhaps you thinke that my King, beeing now able, to his great aduantage, to make an accord with the Emperor, and refusing so to doe, will without you at some other time, hearken to it to his owne disaduantage and yours: or perad∣uenture some hope, that the Emperor recouering his former greatnesse, will remember this good office, for that you beeing sued vnto, would not take armes against him: but vndoubtedly it is more like, that hee according to the cu∣stome of all Princes, and in particular, following his owne naturall inclination, will make more account of his owne interest and particular pofit, then of all [ 50] duties and good offices done vnto him: Florence, Siena and Genoa, may serue you for examples, whom, in recompence of their good seruice, hee hath wholy depriued of their liberties.

These reasons were great in shew, but being neerly examined, it was perceiued that they were not well grounded hauing no firme foundation: and therefore after that the Senate had maturely considered the matter, as well that which con∣cerned their newtrallity, as the time of yeare already farre spent, and vnfit for any* 1.1445 great enterprize either by Sea or Land, they concluded with a generall consent to answer the Prince, and the French Ambassador, thus. That the Senate did infi∣nitly thanke the King and Prince, for their loue and affection towards the proffit of the Commonwealth; and that it would perpetually remember it: but the Vene∣tians hauing for many yeares beene at peace with all Princes, they thought it not a fit thing to breake it vpon no occasion: that in any other matter the Senate [ 10] would striue to satisfie the Kings desire, vnto whom, and his Realme likewise, it wished all health and prosperity.

After this answer the Prince continuing his propositions, did in the Citty of Chioggia assemble diuers of the French faction, to determine with them on fit∣test* 1.1446 meanes for the enterprize of Naples. There met the two Cardinalls, Ferrara, and Tournon, the Lord of Termes the Kings Lieutenant in Italy, Selua the Kings Ambassador at Venice, The Duke of Somma, with other Dukes of the realme of Naples, and certaine other Lords, vnto whom the Prince hauing represented the businesse very easie, the Assembly did not so finde it, in regard of diuers great and euident difficulties: the which hauing like-wise beene well examined by the King, [ 20] he wrote to the Prince and to his Ambassador, not to motion it to the Senate: but they had already done it, as hath bin said: whereby the Senates answer and reso∣lution was the more commended by all men.

Whithin a while after, matters beginning to turne and change, the French King was aduertized how that the Almans had forsaken his alliance, and were banded against him, because he had seazed vpon three Imperiall citties, Metz, Thou, and Verdun: that Queene Mary hauing raised an army of Flemmings had beseeged Hesdin: and how that his owne army on the contrary did dayly decay, by reason* 1.1447 of the contagious sickenesse which was crept into it: whereby he was enforced to leaue the contry of Luxembourg and by breaking off the corse of his victories [ 30] to send a great part of his forces to winter at home, in their owne houses, and to leade the residew to the frontiers of his Kingdome, to gard it; and in the meane time tenne thousand Spanish foote-men came and ioyned with the Emperor.

The Marquis Albert of Brandenbourg, who in the beginning held the kings party, changing his mind, turned with his forces to the Emperors side, so as by example, diuers of the chefest of Germany did the like, who at the first had made shew to fauour the King: after-wards they fell at ods with him, because he would not graunt their demands, which were altogether vnreasonable.

The Emperor being moued by these new accidents, resolued without any [ 40] more delay to go in person with his forces to beseege the Citty of Metz, not∣with-standing that winter drew neare, and that the Castle of the Citty, which was great both by situation and arte, and excellently well manned with diuers good Captaines, did disswade him from that enterprize, together with his owne ser∣uants, who were of a contrary opinion: For that action being made out of sea∣son, had no prosperous successe: for after that he had extreamely trauelled his Army, and lost great numbers of soldiors, he was enforced to retire, hauing done more hurt to him-selfe then to his enemies. In the meane time an other fire, which had a long time layne raked vp in ashes, began to breake forth in Italy; for the Siennois being not able to endure the ouer cruell and seuere gouernment of the [ 50] Spaniards, resoluing to driue them forth of their Citty, sent messengers to Rome to acquaint the French Agents there with their resolution, crauing their aide and fauour therein, promising to keepe their city for the French King. This

offer, for which diuers secret practizes had beene already made in France was wil∣lingly entertained, and commandement was forthwith giuen to certaine foot companies of the Kings that lay at Parma and Miranda to goe thither, and pro∣sently after, the Lord of Sansac went thither to encourage the people, to whose aide other forces being brought by the Count Pettillan, the Spaniards were dri∣uen forth of the towne, their fort rased, and diuers other indignities were com∣mitted (such force hath the peoples liberty not being restrained by lawes or power of the Magistrate) to the disgrace and contempt of the Emperor, they tore in peeces his Ensignes, brake his priuiledges, and trod his armes vnder their feete, the which did make the matter more odious, and did the more incense the Empe∣rour [ 10] against them, who being desirous not to delay his reuenge vpon the Sie∣nois,* 1.1448 nor to suffer the French to haue an other place of retreat in Italy, did com∣mand Don Petro of Toledo, Viceroy of Naples, to march speedily into Tuscany with fiue thousand Almaine and Spanish footmen, seeing that the Realme of Na∣ples was in no danger to be enuaded, and that he should attempt to reduce Sien∣na vnder his obedience.

It was supposed that the deseignes of the French, succeeding prosperously, would greatly hurt the Emperour. For although the French did publikely say that they had taken the defense of the city vpon them, to free it from the ty∣ranny and oppression of the Spaniards, and to restore it to her former liberty and [ 20] spendor, yet neuerthelesse, they plainly made shew of their meaning therein, in regard, that refusing all motions of agreement that were propounded, they went about to place their Garrisons in that city for their owne behoofe, and in other places depending thereon, and to leauy forces in Italy for their owne deseignes:* 1.1449 wherevpon the French King craued of the Siennois, that in recompence of their liberty they would declare themselues friends to his friends and enemies to his enemies. Now the Viceroy being desirous to execute the Emperors commande∣ment, hauing obtained passage through the Churches territories (the Pope say∣ing that he had giuen him leaue, by reason hee had no meanes to hinder him) en∣tred with his army vpon the Siennois territory, and spoyling whatsoeuer he met [ 30] with, he tooke certaine weake places by a voluntary reddition: for the stronge townes were well fortified with men, victuals and all other necessaries, so that the* 1.1450 Imperials would haue spent much time in winning them; wherein the Viceroy being very wilfull, beseeged Montalcina, because if that fort should hold out, Sien∣na being well prouided of all things would be in lesse danger. But the Siennois doubt to be seuerely punished by the Emperour if hee should take their city, did mighily encourage them to their owne defense, together with the hope to bee soone rid from the Imperiall army, by reason of the Turkish and French forces, which were to come into the Realme of Naples.

The Venetians had done all they could to quench this fire kindled in Italy, [ 40] fearing, like men that saw their neighbor houses on fire, that it might fall vpon theirs; but by their valor and discretion they auoided it. In the meane time a fa∣mous Pirate called Mustapha Bifo scouring their seas, entred the Adriatricke Gulphe with diuers Fusts, spoyling and robbing whatsoeuer he met with vpon the coast of Dalmatia, Cristofero Canalis Admirall of the Gulphe went forth to meet him with certaine Gallies, and incountring with him, he did brauely assaile him, and hauing sunke all his vessels, he tooke this Mustapha, and struck off his head vpon the side of his Galley.

Thus ended the yeare 1552. the ensuing yeare was full of warre as well in Tus∣cany,* 1.1451 as in Piedmond and Picardy, the Emperor making great preparations of [ 50] men and money to renue the war with the French, that he might recouer his repu∣tation which he supposed to haue lost at the seege of Metz. At the same time, Petro Zene being chiefe of the councell of forty, communicated to the councell of Tenne, that it was necessary to reuiue the remembrance and execution of the last

will and testament of the Cardinall Zene, who in his time, hauing beene very* 1.1452 rich, had left a goodly and honorable Legacy of a yeerly rent of two thousand one hundred Ducats, to the Prince, Signory, and Senate, to forraine Ambassadors, to the Clergy, and diuers others, as is more at large mentioned in his testament, on condition that all of them should be present at the seruice yeerely celebrated in the month of May in Saint Markes Church by his appointment: the which be∣ing granted did procure great magnificence to the memory of that great Prelat, and gaue much content to the whole family.

At the same time great troubles arose in England by the death of yong King* 1.1453 Edward the sixth, whom his sister Mary succeeded in that Kingdome. [ 10]

Prince Donato in the meane time, after that he had repaired and embellished the Ducall palace, after the same manner as it is to be seene at this day, and by his example animated diuers Senators to doe the like, departed forth of this life to the great griefe of all men, in the seuenth yeere and sixth month of his principallity, and lieth buried in Saint Maries of Serui.

[illustration]

MARC-ANTONIO [ 20] TREVISAN the eighty Duke.

[ 30]

[ 40]

MARC-ANTONIO TREVISAN sonne to that Dominico Treuisan who was so renowned for his great seruice done to his country, succeeded him after the accustomed manner: He was a man of such integrity and holinesse of life, as they had much to doe to perswade him to accept the dignity; for being a good man and brought vp from his youth in all simplicity, he knew not what ambition did meane. At the last being enforced by his friends, he con∣sented to their pleasure, with as great humillity and modesty as could be desired; so, as being feared and honoured of euery one, he maintained iustice without any parciallity. He found the Republike at peace both at home and abroad, by the [ 50] discreet gouernment of his predecessors, who had cut off all occasions of warre* 1.1454 with forraine Princes, continuing still Newters.

In the meane time, Cosmo Duke of Florence hauing declared himselfe against the Siennois, sent Giouan Giacomo de Medicis, Marquis of Marignan, with Italian &

Spanish forces to assaile them. The French King being incensed there at com∣manded Pietro Strossi his Lieutenant Generall in Italy to beseege the city of Flo∣rence to vse meanes to take it, and to restore it to her former liberty, expelling the Duke: but the Marquis preuenting Strossi came with his forces vnlooked for in the night to assaile the city of Sienna, and hauing at his first arriuall giuen i•…•… vpon one of the Gates, the allarme was so hot, as euery man ranne thither, whereby he was repulsed and enforced to retire, but with no losse of courage, for in his retreate he seized on a fort builded with in a Harquebuze shot from the walles, which the Lord of Termes had caused to be made there for the defense of the city, and fortifying himselfe therein, he could not be driuen thence by any meanes [ 10] that the Siennois, or Strossi could vse, who vpon the report thereof came speedily to Sienna, where for the safety of the city he caused an other fort to be built, be∣twixt that of the enemies and the Gate, forth of which they did vsually come to skirmish.

Strossi after that, marching into the field with certaine troupes, surprized Ro∣dolfo Baillon and Ascania de la Corne who were going vpon an enterprize against Chiusi, whom he put to rout, slew Baillon, and sent Ascanio prisoner to the King, who did ransomlesse set him at liberty.

Thus passed this yeere 1553. which was full of warres in sundry places, the [ 20] * 1.1455 next ensuing was not exempted from it, and yet the Venetians were no way touched there with being spectators of other mens games, they themselues ha∣uing no hand therein, though warre was very neere them as well in Tuscany, as in Parma and Mirandola, and afterwards in the Isle of Corse against the Gene∣uois the Emperors partisans. In this manner did the city of Venice enioy an assured peace on euery side, when on a morning Prince Treuisan being at Masse in the Hall of the Heads, died sodainely of a faintnesse that tooke him, proceeding (according to the common report) from to much abstinence, hauing gouerned eleuen monthes and seuen and twenty daies, hee lieth buried in the Church of the Saints Iohn and Paul.

[ 30]

[illustration]

FRANCISCO VENIERI the eighty one Duke.

[ 40]

[ 50]

FRANCISCO VENIERI a man of sixty foure yeers old was vpon the eleuenth of Iune chosen in his steed. The Republike likewise was in his time at peace, whilest fiers of warre flamed in all places neere vnto them, and that no Prince or common-wealth of Italy but felt the misery thereof, the armes of the French and the Imperials ranging euery where abroad.

In this sort was the yeere 1554. spent, which in sundry* 1.1456 places was full of warre, desolation, fiers, smoke and ashes: in the yeere following [ 10] * 1.1457 diuers alterations of State were seene. For first, Pope Iulius the third deceased on the three and twentith day of March, whom the Cardinall Marcello Ceruin suc∣ceeding, who was a Tuscan by Nation, death within a while after buried both his name and memory.

Giouan Pietro Caraffa a Neapolitan, called in former times the Cardinall Thea∣tin,* 1.1458 was chosen in his place, who being termed Paul the fourth, did at his entrance put all men in great hope of a good reformation in the Church, and of a generall peace, to which he being not able to induce the Emperor and French King, warre beganne to kindle more then before. Sienna after a long seege did, through want of Victuals, yeeld to the Imperials, and yet vpon honorable composition which [ 20] was partly performed, but not altogether.

The Emperor Charles at the same time bending vnder the burthen of worldly affaires, and being discontented to see that great good fortune which had euer ac∣companied him in all his haughty enterprizes, to giue place to that of the French King or else being touched with some remorse of conscience for hauing beene the* 1.1459 occasion of so much bloudshed in Christendome, in regard of the length of the sad precedent warres, sent for his sonne Philip forth of England to Bruxels, and re∣soluing to quit the Empire, his owne Kingdomes, and honours of this world, did by authenticall letters of the fiue and twentith of October, resigne vnto him all his Lands and Signories, enioyning all his Estates and subiects to acknowledge him their true and lawfull King, determining to withdraw himselfe (as he afterwards [ 30] did) into a Monastery in Spaine, hauing likewise renounced the administration of the Empire to King Ferdinand his brother, and recommended him by letters to all the Princes and Potentates of Germany.

Philip then according to his fathers earnest exhortation, seemed very much to* 1.1460 encline to peace, but in regard of the great difficulties which were found therein on either side, truce was granted for fiue yeeres, that in the meane time they might haue leisure to conclude a peace, but this truce likewise was as soone broken as concluded, being supposed to haue beene but a false baite to delay the prouisi∣ons of the French in Piedmont, whilest the Duke of Alba should set forward, wherevpon warre beganne againe more hotly then before, to the great griefe of [ 40] al men, which continued the yeere following 1556. in which Prince Venieri be∣ing* 1.1461 ill disposed of his person, aud ordinarily sicke, departed forth of this mortall life, hauing grouerned two yeeres, one month, and one and twenty daies, and is buried in Saint Sauiors Church.

[ 50]

[illustration]

LORENZO PRIVLI the eighty two Duke.

[ 10]

[ 20]

THE Senate being afterwards assembled, according to the vsual manner, did in his stead elect Lorenzo Priuli, a man wise and learned. At the beginning of his principallity the plague be∣ganne to shew it selfe, which within a while after ceased by the dilligence and industry of Petro Mosto the Senator, deputed at [ 30] that time to the office of La Sanita. The pestilence was fol∣lowed by a dearth and want of victuals, proceeding from a suspition that the sick∣nesse still continued, by meanes whereof strangers did no more bring any thing to the city.* 1.1462

At the same time Pope Paul the fourth a bad friend to the Spaniards, did im∣prison in Castle Saint Angelo, the Cardinall Santa Fior, Camillo Colonna, Iuliano Caesaren▪ and the Abbot of Bresegna, all of them enemies to the house of France, for secret assemblles which they made in Rome in the houses of Marc-Antonio Colonna and that Cardinall Marc-Antonio escaping went to the King of Spaine, who presently commanded the Duke of Alua to releeue them. [ 40]

This Duke being Viceroy of Naples, was greeued to see the Pope openly to pursue the Roman Lords Spaines partizans, and being desirous to obey the King his Masters commandement, marched into the field, and tooke from the Pope* 1.1463 neere to Rome, Agnane, Pila•…•…tina, Segna, Tiuoli, and last of all Ostia, whereby he did cut off victuals from the Romans, he on the side, and the Colonnessi on the other keeping the Pope in this manner shut vp within the circuit of his wailes.

The Pope made meanes to the French King, sending the Cardinall Carassa his Nephew vnto him his Maiesty wrote to the Marshall Stossi who then lay in Tus∣cany to march thitherwards and to expect aide which the Duke of Guise should bring him. His Holinesse di•…•… likewise send to Venice to mooue the Senate to [ 50] * 1.1464 aide him. The Senators being greeued for the Popes troubles, and desyring to haue him at quiet, s•…•…rit Phaebe Capello, a very wise & discreet Secretary to the Duke of Alua, to pacifie the matter if it were possible.

Philip King of Spaine in the meane time perceiuing this warre to be backed

by the French, and that thereby it was likely to prooue more dangerous in re∣gard of the intelligences and partiallities which they had in Italy, did receiue Duke Octauio of Parma into fauor, restoring to him the city of Placentia and all* 1.1465 other places nere adioyning which he had seized: in regard whereof, this Duke em∣braced the Spanish party, to the Popes great discontent, who said, that a Prince feudatary of the Church, as he was, ought not to make an accord with his ene∣mies without his leaue, wherevpon, he caused him to be cited to Rome, together with the Cardinal Farneze his brother.

The Duke of Guise about the same time came from France into Italy, which was at the beginning of the yeere 1557. with fifteene thousand footmen, eight* 1.1466 hundred men at armes, and twelue hundred light horse, to aide the Pope a∣gainst [ 10] the Imperials, with whom within a while after Strossi, Monluc and others, (who by the Kings commandement were gonne before to Rome with six hun∣dred horse and fiue thousand foot) ioyned themselues.

Vpon the report of the arriuall of these forces, the Duke of Alua had retired himselfe to the frontiers of the Realme of Naples, by his retreat opening a way to Rome for the Duke of Guise, who presently went thither, vpon hope to finde great forces ready there, according to the accord concluded betwixt the Pope, the King, and the Duke of Ferrara, but finding none at all there, he went into La Marca, where the Marquis of Montebel came vnto him with the Churches for∣ces, [ 20] and from thence they marched into the Realme of Naples where they stayed not long, by reason that the aide came not which the Cardinall Caraffa had pro∣mised to the King, and because the French army for want of pay did dayly decrease, an•…•… on the contrary, that of the Duke of Alua did encrease: where∣vpon, the Duke of Guise returning to La Marca, and afterwards going to Rome to talke with the Pope, perceiuing the small meanes his Holinesse had to make warre, and the great pursuite made by the Duke of Alua, hee aduized him to harken vnto peace and agreement with the Spaniard, resoluing to re∣turne into France. For at Rome hee receiued letters from the King bearing newes of the losse of the battaile of Saint Laurence, and of the taking of Saint* 1.1467 Quintins by the Spaniards, with commandement presently to returne into [ 30] France; the Duke of Guise being willing to obey, tooke his leaue of his Holi∣nesse, and went forward on his iourney home-ward, the Pope determining to fol∣low his councell.

During this warre against the Pope, The Venetians and Cosmo Duke of Flo∣rence, had solicited King Philip and the Duke of Alua, to make an accord with his Holinesse, either of them answered that they had not taken armes to take from him any thing that was his, but only to defend the Realme of Naples▪ and that they had made warre in an enemies country to defend their owne sub∣iects; and therefore so soone as his Holinesse should leaue his confederacy with [ 40] * 1.1468 the French, and the resolution of making himselfe master of the Realme of Na∣ples, they would yeeld him the obedience due to the soueraigne pastor of Chri∣stendome, and would restore whatsoeuer they had taken from him during that warre: to which the Pope giuing eare, the Cardinall Caraffa with certaine others went to the Duke of Alua to treat of peace, the which was easily granted with re∣stitution* 1.1469 on all sides of places taken in the warre, the Duke of Ferrara being there∣in comprehended.

The Senate to mediate this agreement, sent Marc-Antonio de Franceschis thither, who was Secretary to the Common-wealth, a very wise and discreet man, who stirred not from thence till the finall conclusion thereof. In the [ 50] meane time two hundred Turkish Gallies returning from the coast of Cala∣bria, did cast anchor at La Valona, and did in no sort hurt the lands belonging to the Venetians.

Within a while after the two sonnes of Soliman, Selim and Baiazet, tooke

armes against one an other in Asia, and because the father did most fauour the* 1.1470 elder brother Selim, the other was enforced to haue recourse to Tamas King of Persia, who in hatred to Soliman did willingly aide him, and giuing him great forces, the two brethren ioyned their battaile, which continuing a day and a night, Selim was victor, his brother being fled from the battaile hurt, and more then forty thousand Mahometans one either side slaine in the place.

The Senate on the other side being still desirous to continue their ancient cus∣tomes and alliances, sent Giouan Capello Knight, and Bernardo Nouagera Ambassa∣dors to the Emperor Ferdinand to congratulate his promotion to the Empire (as hath beene said) and Paulo Tepulo to King Philip.

This was at the latter end of the yeere: the next, 1558. bred great warres both [ 10] * 1.1471 in France, Piedmont and Tuscany, together with the death of Princes and Prin∣cesses. For so soone as the Duke of Guise returned into France, hee executed* 1.1472 the enterprize of Calais, a long time before determined of, and reduced vnder the Kings subiection the country of Oye, and all the forts which the English held there: the Duke of Neuers on the other side tooke diuers places in the country of Luxembourg, as Herbemont, the forts of Iamoigne, Chygni, Rossig∣noll, Villeneufe and diuers others.

This happy successe did change the French mens sorrow into gladnesse (their hearts still panting for that red and bloudy battaile of Saint Lawrence) and* 1.1473 chiefly at Court, where the ioy was doubled, in regard of the marriage of Fran∣cis [ 20] Daulphin of Viennois with Mary Steward Queene and Inheretrix of Scotland, daughter to Iames the fifth and Mary of Lorraine, daughter to Claude Duke of Guise, and that of Charles Duke of Lorraine, with Claude the younger daughter of France. This ioy was accompanied with an other, by reason of the taking of* 1.1474 Thyonuille, which after a long battery of fiue & thirty great peeces of ordnance, was yeelded vpon composition. Great preparations for warre being after this manner dayly made, Almighty God tooke pitty on the people and raised vp Me∣diators of peace betwixt those two great Kings, the which at that time tooke no∣effect, in regard of the great difficulties which were presented. But the death of [ 30] Charles the fift happening in Spaine, and that of his two sisters, Flenor Queene Dowager of France, and Queene Mary Dowager of Hungary, who accompanied him, Mary Queene of England died soone after, which procured the accomplish∣ment of the peace, turning the bitternesse of the precedent warres into a pleasing sweetnesse of accord, by meanes of the alliances made the yeere following 1559.* 1.1475 For as the Commissioners of both Kings did treat together, the death of Charles the fifth happening in September, and that of Queene Mary of England in No∣uember, altered the place and time of that conclusion.

Peace was concluded in the castle of Cambresis, by meanes of the marriages* 1.1476 of Philip with Elizabeth, eldest daughter to King Henry, and of Philibert Emanuel [ 40] Duke of Sauoy with the Lady Marguerite the Kings only sister, who tendred backe to the Spaniard whatsoeuer he had taken from him, and to the Duke, Sa∣uoy and Piedmont, and to the Geneuois Corsica. But whilest the nuptials of the Kings daughter and sister were celebrated at Paris with all sports and delights that might be imagined, this pleasant Commedy was turned into a mournfull and la∣mentable tragedy, by King Henries death, who being at tilt stricken into the eye with a splinter of a Lance, died, the eleuenth day after his hurt.

But to returne to the Venetians, great numbers of pirats did at the same time scoure the Adriattick sea, and by their vsuall spoiles and incursions did great harme on the sea coast of Dalmatia and Histria. Matteo Bembo, a discreet person [ 50] and well experienced in many matters and Generall of the Venetians nauall ar∣my, came forth of the Gulph of Corfou with twelue Gallies, and with great speed pursued those Rouers, gaue them chase, and di•…•… greatly molest them, who escaping into the Hauen of Durazzo, those of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 hauing taken 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉

their behalfe, Bembo being incensed thereat, not regarding the peace which the Ve∣netians had with Soliman, discharged his Cannons vpon the cities walles where* 1.1477 some of the inhabitants were slaine and yet he could not seize on the Pirats. The Turke tooke this battery and manner of proceeding in very bad part, and determi∣ned to reuenge it: the Venetians, considering the losses and harme that might a∣rise if they should breake peace with so potent a Lord, did appease him both by presents and excuses, banishing Bembo from their State, being not able to appre∣hend him, that they might giue him an exemplary punishment, which did the more coole and appease Soliman. On the other side by the death of Mary Queene of England Elizabeth her sister, obtained the crowne. To Henry the second suc∣ceeded [ 10] Francis the second Daulphin of Viennois his eldest sonne of the age of sixteene yeeres. At the same time died Pope Paul the fourth, who being extream∣ly hated of the Roman people, as well for the behauiour of his Nephewes, as for* 1.1478 the Inquisition which he had established in Rome, before he had scarce giuen vp the ghost, the people arose, and being led by the chiefest of those that beene iniu∣red by him, ranne to the palace of the Inquisition, from whence with their swords hauing driuen the Monkes, they opened the prisons and set all the prisoners at liberty: the like did they to all the other prisons in Rome, then they went to the Capitoll, where finding the brazen Statue which the Romans had erected in ho∣nour* 1.1479 of the Pope at the beginning of his papacy in regard of the good offices he [ 20] had done them, they brake it in peeces, and drag'd the head diuided from the bo∣dy through the dirt and mire of the city, that done, they threw it into Tiber.

The Venetians sent their Ambassadors to the new French King to congratu∣late (according to their manner) his comming to the crowne. Nicolo de Pont* 1.1480 Doctor and Knight, and Bernardo Nouagera were appointed to that end: and within a while after the Prince falling sicke deceased, to the griefe of all men, in regard of his integrity and learning: he was buried in Saint Dominikes Church in the monument of his ancestors. Then by the example of former times, they chose Ieronimo Priuli brother to the deceased Duke, a man very famous and of great Maiesty. [ 30]

[illustration]

IERONIMO DE PRIVLI the 83. Duke.

[ 40]

AT the beginning of his gouernment, Giouan Angelo de* 1.1481 Medicis a Milanois, brother to the late Marquis of Ma∣rignan was chosen Pope to the great contentment of all the Romans, taking vpon him the name of Pius the fourth, which was at the latter end of the yeere 1559. who to make his actions conformable to his name, par∣doned the people of Rome the commotion and mutiny made by them against his predecessor: then seeing all Christendome at peace, he tooke order that the generall [ 10] councell begunne at Trent, and broken off afterwards, by reason of the warres, should be reuiued. And although he was by nature meeke and gentle, yet neuerthelesse beeing enforced, by the great complaints made vnto him against his predecessors Nephewes, who during their vncles Pa∣pacy had committed infinite extortions, hee imprisoned Charles and Alphonso Ca∣raffi Cardinals, the Duke of Palliano brother to Charles, and two others of their nere kinsmen, who, their processe hauing beene made, and considered by Iudges deputed to that end, being found guilty of sundry bad crimes, the Cardinall Charles was strangled in Castle Saint Angelo, and forthwith buried, the Duke of* 1.1482 Palliano with his other kinsmen were beheaded in the tower of Nona, and shewne [ 20] afterwards in publike, and Cardinall Alphonso as least culpable, was sent home to his owne house by meanes of a pecuniary amends which hee paied, and the of∣fice of Chamberlaine was taken from him.* 1.1483

About the same time died that famous Prince Andrew Doria, being foure score and thirteene yeeres of age, famous as well for the great enterprises he execu∣ted, as for restoring the city of Genoa, his natiue country, to the liberty it enioy∣eth at this day.

The Venetians in the meane time beeing vnwilling to bee surprized, if they* 1.1484 should happen to be enforced to take armes, receiued into their pay Sforza Pala∣uicin Marquis Cortemajor a very famous captaine: then they sent Ieronimo Gri∣mani, [ 30] Ieronimo Zene, and Marc-Antonio de Mulla Ambassadors to Pope Pius the 4▪ an inward friend to the Common-wealth, who entertained them very louingly: and hauing giuen them audience in the Chamber of Kings, hee did greatly com∣mend the Republike, promising to fauor and augment it with all his power, who being desirous to roote out heresies, which on euery side troubled the Catholike* 1.1485 Religion, did by his briefe cause the Generall councell to be published at Trent in the Octaues of Easter of the yeere following, exhorting the Prelats to come thi∣ther and Christian Princes either to come or send their Ambassadors.

In this manner ended the yeere 1560. wherein Francis the second French* 1.1486 King deceased, and Charles Maximillian Duke of Orleance his brother succeeded [ 40] him in the Kingdome of France, being twelue yeeres of age, and was called Charles the ninth.

In this meane time the ouerture of the councell still continued at Trent, whi∣ther the Pope sent seuen of the chiefe of the Colledge of Cardinals famous both for learning and good life, namely, Hercules Gonzaga of Mantua, Ieronimo Seri∣pand* 1.1487 the Neapolitan, Giouan Moron of Milan, Stanislaus Hosius a Polander, Lo∣douico Simonete a Milanois, Mar•…•…-Sitic a German, and Bernardo Nauigera a Ve∣netian. The Emperor likewise sent his Ambassadors thither, who were Sigis∣mond Thuonius Archbishop of Trent, and Antony Muglitius of Morauia, Archbi∣shop [ 50] of Casurgia. Those of the French King were, Regnard Ferrier a very lear∣ned man, and well seene in the tongues, and Lewis of Saint Gelais, Lord of Lan∣sac, Knight of honour to the Queene the Kings mother. For Philip King of Spaine there was Claudio Fernandes Earle of Lunel a very noble person: and for the King of Poland Valentine Herbutus a Polonois.

The Venetians sent thither Nicolo de Ponte, and Matteo Dandulo, men much renowned for their singular learning and knowledge in many matters: they were accompanied by Antonio Milledonna the Secretary, a man of so rare & excel∣lent a wi•…•…, as being employed in some actions in that holy assembly, he made him selfe to be admired of all men.

Toward the latter end of the same yeere the last Session of the General Coun∣cell was held at Trent, and about the beginning of the yeere following, that which had there beene concluded, was sollemnly published, and sent to Rome to Pope Pius the fourth, who in the open consistory of Cardinals accepted and ratified it, commanding it to be receiued ouer all Christendome.

At this councell were present, diuers great Prelats of the Venetians State, [ 10] * 1.1488 all borne at Venice, namely, Bernardo Nauagera Cardinall, and Legat in the councell, in stead of Seripand who died there, Giouan Treuisan Patriarke of Ve∣nice, Daniele Barbaro chosen Patriarke of Aquileia, Pi•…•…tro Lande Archbishop of Candie, Marco Cornare Archbishop of Spalatra, Philippo Moceniga Archbishop of Cyprus, Antonio Coceo Archbishop of Corfou, and afterwards clarke of the Chamber, Lodouico Pisani the Bishop of Padua and afterwards Cardinal, Geor∣gio Cornare, Bishop of Treuiso, Iulio Contaren Bishop of Bellun, Tomaso, Bishop of Cap-〈◊〉〈◊〉, Giouan Francisco Commendune Bishop of Zant and Cesalonia, and afterwards Cardinall, Pietro Barbarico Bishop of Cursoles, Pietro Con∣taren [ 20] Bishop of Bassus, Dominico Bolano Bishop of Bressia, Federico Cornare, Bishop of Bergamo, André Moceniga, Bishop of Himosia, Ier•…•…nimo Treui∣•…•…an Bishop of Verona, Ieronimo Ragazzone Bishop of Famagosta, Matteo de Priuli, Bishop of Vincenza, •…•…rancisco Contaren, chosen Bishop of Baffus, Giouan Del•…•…ino Bishop of Torcelles, and Ieronimo Vielmo, Bishop of Citta-noua, all men of singular knowledge, and admirable learning.

At the beginning of the councell there arose a controuersie (which did greatly trouble the Pope) betwixt the Ambassadours of France and Spaine, a∣bout precedency, each of those Kings beeing desirous to haue their Ambassa∣dours to take the chiefest place next to the Emperours Ambassadour: King Philip sent word to the Pope, that his pleasure was to haue the chiefe place as∣signed [ 30] to his Ambassadour, or otherwise, hee gaue him to vnderstand, that hee would not onely call home his Ambassadour from the Councell, but likewise all his subiects: King Charles protested against it, saying, That if they went a∣bout to doe him that wrong to take from him the place and ranke which his predecessors had euer held, as well in regard of their nobillity and antiquity, as for the great benifits which the Church of Rome had receiued from them, hee would not onely call home his Ambassadours, but himselfe, together with his whole Kingdome, would depart from the obedience of the sea Apo∣stolike.

The Pope to preuent the inconueniences that might arise thereby, did decree, [ 40] by the aduise of the consistory of Cardinals, That the French Ambassadour* 1.1489 should keepe his vsuall ranke and place, and that hee of Spaine (to giue some satisfaction likewise to that King) should sit in the middest of the Cardinals below the Priests, and aboue the Deacons, by meanes whereof the whole mat∣ter was pacified.

About the same time there happened a very strange accident at Rome, the like whereof had neuer before beene seene, which was thus: certaine young* 1.1490 men of verie good place, beeing prouoked by a vision, which they said they had receiued from Angelles, how that to the Pope then liuing an other di∣uine [ 50] Pope should succeed him, who should bee the onely Monarke of the world, commanding both the Spirituall and Temporall iurisdiction, and should bring all men to the knowledge of the true God, and they being desirous to haue

it sodainely come to passe, not tarrying till the Pope should die his naturall death, resolued to dispatch and kill him, whilest (as his manner was) hee should giue audience, and one of their number called Benedetto Accolto tooke vpon him to strike him, as hee should read a supplication that hee would present vnto him, but when it came to the execution, so great feare and amazement seized on him, as hee withdrew himselfe all trembling, wherevpon, one of the con∣spirators fearing least that they should bee discouered, went presently to the Pope and opened the whole complot to him, so as they were all apprehended, and publikely executed. [ 10]

In other places great numbers of pirats scoured the Adriattick seas, so that* 1.1491 nothing could escape their hands, comming euen as farre as Chioggia. The Venetians disdayning these incursions, sent Christofero Canalis against them, who departing cheerefully from Venice with foure Gallies, did so narrowly pursue them, as he tooke part of them, whom he forthwith hanged, and chased a∣way the rest, so as by that meanes the nauigation was assured.

Toward the latter end of this yeere the Emperour Ferdinand died, whom his* 1.1492 sonne Maximilian, before crowned King of the Romans, succeeded, who so soone [ 20] as his fathers funeralls were ended, did forthwith march against the Transiluani∣an, to reuenge the wrongs which he said he had done him in his Realme of Hungary, determining hotly to pursue him, but the Transil∣uanian being backt by the Turke, enforced the Emperour to retire.

The end of the sixth Boke of the sixth Decade.

The Contents of the seuenth Booke of the [ 10] sixth Decade.

THE great hurt caused by the Inquisition af∣ter the manner of Spaine. The Venetians beeing solicited by Pope Pius the fourth to [ 20] receiue it, doe excuse themselues because they would not trouble their Dominions with it. The death of Pope Pius the fourth with the election of Pope Pius the fifth. The death of Soliman before Zighet, which is concealed by Mahomet Bascha. Selim succeedeth Soliman. The ceremo∣ny which is vsed in bringing Ambassadours into the presence of the great [ 30] Lord, with the forme of the oth which hee vseth to make. The first mo∣tion of the enterprise of Cyprus by the Turkes. And lastly Selims resoluti∣on to enuade the Isle of Cyprus.

[ 40]

The seuenth Booke of the sixt Decade of the History of Uenice.

THe Pope being desirous at the beginning of the yeere 1565. to* 1.1493 pluckvp by the roots al heresies forth of Italy, & to diue into the very secret thoughts of men, fearing least that Prouince should [ 50] * 1.1494 embrace heresies like others, did throw it head-long into very great and difficult Labirinths, which had almost caused an in∣testine warre in the country. For he procured King Philip to establish the Inquisition after the manner of Spaine in Milan, namely this

sharpe and cruell inquisition, by which the conuicted do loose both liues and goods, to the great hinderance and vndoing of their heires.

Now King Phillip hauing written to the Senate of Milan that his pleasure was to haue the Inquisition of Spayne receiued into the Citty, all the People began* 1.1495 to mutine, and take armes against the Spanish officers that went about to intro∣duce it: which the Senate of Milan perceiuing made answer to him that brought the Kings commandement, that they were ready to obey whatsoeuer his Maiesty should please to command, and that they would take order to haue his will per∣formed in euery point: yet neuer the lesse they were not of opinion to haue that [ 10] commandement to take place as then, in regard of the Kings profit, as well be∣cause those rigorous lawes were needlesse in Milan, by reason that the Inquisitors would know all matters, though distinct and diuided, from al customes and lawes as also for that the Citty of Milan, and all Italy in generall did detest that new manner of proceeding, which might in the end breed much hurt: That it was not good, especially in these times, ful of miseries and calamities, to put good men and a warlike people into desperation, for feare of the mischeefes which might ensue thereof, which could in no sort profit his maiesty. This discreet answere of [ 20] the Milan Senate, did change King Phillips determination, who reuoking his E∣dict, did greatly assure and confirme the Milanois.

The Pope perceiuing that his deseigne had taken none effect at Milan as he de* 1.1496 sired, he did by letters exhort the Venetians therevnto, entreated, and in a man∣ner went about to enforce them to embrace that nouelty. The Venetians beeing wise and discreet, after they had maturely considered the businesse, together with∣the great danger they were like to incurre, if they should permit such cruelty to take place in their Townes and Citties (in regard that the Realme of Naples for the selfe same matter, had in a manner reuolted from the Emperor, and the Mi∣lanois had bruely impugned it,) they being vnwilling openly to seeme to deny the Pope, nor likewise to grant his request so dangerous vnto them, delayed as [ 30] much as they could to make him an answere.

But his Nuncio still vrging them more and more to grant the Popes demand, the Senate was assembled for that businesse, where after sundry opinions had beene propounded, they dilligently considered the discomodities which might arise vnto them by means of the Popes wrath and indignation, if they should re∣fuse him, who being already not very wel affected to the Common-wealth, would be the more enflamed against them: On the other side they did represent before their eyes, how that the wretchedest of al others was a ciuill and domestick war, whereby the Republick did weaken her owneforces, which were sooner raised, then pacified.

Therefore the Senate, all this being well examined, made the Pope an answer [ 40] full of meeknesse and humility: how that it was of opinion by rigorous and sharp punishment to extirpate all execrable heresies: but that it was not seemely to de∣priue* 1.1497 children, guiltlesle of that crime of their fathers successions, seeing that they had Citties very zealous of Catholick Religion, which had no need of such great rigor and iustice: yet they would take order, that those who should be con∣uicted of Heresy should abiure their errors, or else, should be punished with death according to the manner of their Iustice.

About the latter end of this yeare dyed Pope Pius Qu•…•…rtus in the sixth yeare of his Papacy, vnto whom succeeded, at the beginning of the yeare 1566. Frier* 1.1498 Michaell Giseleo of the order of Saint Dominick, called the Cardinal Alexandrine, [ 50] who tooke vpon him the name of Pius Quintus

Soliman lying at the seege of Zighet, and beeing inraged to see a handfull of Christans so brauely to resist the great numbers of his soldiers, this disdaine and rage did so alter him, as it brought him to a flixe, which killed him on the fift day of September: but his death was in such sort concealed by Mahomet Bascha, who

next him was the cheifest man in the Army, as the Turkes knew it not, fearing (as it was likely) that the newes of the great Lords death, would be the cause of the ruine of the whole Army, Selim his sonne succeeded him in the Otoman Empire.

But to returne to the Venetians, of whom our meaning is cheifly to speake, cer∣taine monethes after that this new Emperor of Turkes was installed in his Em∣pire, and that from all parts Ambassadors were sent vnto him to congratulate* 1.1499 his happy comming to the Crowne, they appointed Marin Caballo, a nobleman, and excellently well seene in the knowledge of diuers things, being both learned and ritch, to goe and reioyce with him likewise in the Common wealthes name [ 10] for his aduancement to the Empire, and afterwards to confirme the ancient Ar∣ticles of peace and alliance which they had made with his father Soliman: the which that hee might obtaine with more ease, hee tooke along with him the presents which Ambassadors were wont for to carry to the new Emperors. But whilest he prepared for his iourney, it happened, that one called Iohn Miches a Iew by nation, a great fauorite of Selims, a man of an euill disposition, and who had turned Turke, for a certaine wonderfull pollicy, did continually sollicite Se∣lim against the Duke of Necsia, (one of the Islands Ciclades, descended from the race of Crispes, and was the one & twentieth Duke of that Island) to bereaue him of his Prnicipallity, hoping (as it came to passe) that he being driuen thence, easi∣ly [ 20] to obtaine it for himselfe.

This Duke beeing aduertised of the practises which were wrought against him, went to Constantinople to iustifie his cause, where, knowing that the fauour and friendship of the great Lords Councellors is bestowed on such as giue most for* 1.1500 it, he car•…•…ied with him fifteene thousand Crownes to bestow among them, ho∣ping by that money to winne those of the Councell to his side, but at his arriuall the laid hands on him, and being committed to prison, he lost at one time both his money, and all the wealth he had.

At last beeing set at liberty as innocent, and hauing committed no fault at all, he could neuer afterwards recouer his principallity, so as beeing reduced to ex∣treame [ 30] pouerty he came to Venice. The Venetians taking pitty on that honest man, who by the mallice and enuy of that Iew was fallen into such misery and ca∣lamity, and not through his owne fault, were very liberall to him: the like did the Pope when he came to Rome.

By this time Marin Caballo, who was appointed by the Senate (as hath beene said) to goe Ambassador to Selim, was ready, who departed from Venice, and with a faire and gentle wind sailed towards Constantinople, where at his first ar∣riuall he treated (according to the vse) with the cheife of the great Lords Coun∣cell: (for no stranger is admitted to speake with the Emperor, till such time as his demaund be determined and concluded by them) but he had much to doe to ob∣taine [ 40] that which he demanded, those Councellors feigning that Selim the new Emperorrefused to confirme their aliance, which was only to draw greater guifts from them, which they did: for the Ambassador hauing giuen them many other great presents he did at length procure the Councellors, to consent to the condi∣tlons* 1.1501 of peace and freindship: then hee was brought in by the Captaine of the Port, and led by the Armes to kisse the Emperors hand, the like did diuers young Gentlemen which had accompanied the Ambassador: but they were led in ano∣ther fashion: for two Turkes held each of them by the armes, and brought them as prisoners, who did not Kisse the Emperors hand, but his knees, that doon, they returned, and went backward, their faces being still turned towards the Emperor. [ 50] These young Gentlemen being led forth of the roome, not any Christian remai∣ned in Selims Chamber, but only the Ambassador, who spake breefely vnto him in this manner.

As much greefe (most gracious Emperor (as our Venetian Common-wealth, highly affected to the Ottomans, hath receiued by the death of Soliman that glo∣rious* 1.1502 and most wise Emperor, euen so much ioy and contentment hath it, to vn∣derstand that the diuine power hath raised you to such a dignity and placed you in the throne belonging to the famous and mostiust family of the Ottomans. For it is most certaine that the soule of Soliman doth at this present glory, not only for that it did so much surpasse all men in good hap and glory for high en∣terprises, in wisdome and knowledge of diuers things, for being meeke and gen∣tle to the humble, liberall to his freinds, and faithfull to his allies; but much more for leauing you his sonne behind him, farre more excellent then himselfe. [ 10] For hee haui•…•…g beene euer inuincible, and hauing neuer giuen place to any man, is not only at this present ioyfull, but likewise accounteth himselfe more honored sor being surmounted and ouercome by his sonne in all vertues belonging to an Emperor. The excellency of so many great Emperors your Auncestors doe in∣uite vs, nay rather doe enforce vs, (most mighty Emperor) to expect as much from you, the glory of the Ottomans, the high attempts of your progenitors, eue∣ry where so much renowned doth draw vs therevnto, and the fame of your fore fathers, continued for so many yeares without intermission doth confirme it to vs. These things beeing thus, the Venetian Senate hath sent mee hether to con∣firme and establish the same friendship and alliance which hath euer beene be∣twizt [ 20] the Ottoman Emperots & our Republicke, and this amity with your most excellent maiesty, ought to bee so much the more pleasing vnto you, by how much it is more ancient, confirmed by sundry good offices on either part, and continued for so many yeares. For in very deed all worldly things doe by long tract of time corrupt and grow weake, and still new things are found best, but freindship which is a sacred & diuine thing, and which can not be but among good and iust men, the older it is, so much more perfect and durable is it.

Our Republick then being mooued by these reasons, doth continually pray vnto Al∣mighty God for your health and prosperity.

The Ambassador hauing ended his speech, Selim swore a sollemne oath, and ra∣tifyed [ 30] that which was written in his Patents sealed with his seale▪ The forme of* 1.1503 Selims oth was thus, I sweare & promise by the eternall God creator of Heauen & Earth, by the soules of the Seauenty Prophets, by mine owne soule, and those of all mine Auncestors, to obserue from point to point all the rightes of alliance and freindship maintained vntill this present, and to keepe them sacred and inui∣olable, in the same manner as they are confirmed by my seale. Selim as the Am∣bassador was taking his leaue, answered him in few words badly polished, but yet full of all curtesie and humanity.

Gaballus departing from the great Lords Pallace, and mounting his horse, was* 1.1504 conducted by the Ianissaries (vnto whom before hee had audience he had giuen [ 40] guifts) to his owne lodging, then preparing for his returne to Venice, the Bas∣chaes of the Councell vsed him with great curtesie and liberality, giuing him sumptuous garments, Terra Sigillata; Balsamum, and diuers other pretious things; somtimes likewise they doe vse to feast and banquet one an other.

At the same time such numbers of Pirates, did scoure the sea-coasts of Dalmatia, as men could not liue safly in their own houses they did not only rob those whom they encountred at Sea after the maner of Pirats, but did likewise come on shore, putting all to fier and sword, killing old men and young Children: carrying away* 1.1505 with them Men, Women & Cattail. The Venetians were not able to indure that insolency, •…•…ut did on a suddaine arme forty Gallies vnder the command of Her∣molao [ 50] Tepulo, whereof these Pirates beeing aduertized, departed speedily from thence, and left the Prouince in quiet. In the meane time Ieronimo Priuli dyed, hauing governed eight yeares, eleuen monethes and foure dayes, and was hono∣rably buried in Saint Dominicks Church in the monument of his Auncestors.

[illustration]

PIETRO LOREDANO the 84. Duke.

[ 10]

[ 20]

PIETRO LOREDANO, a renowned and excellent Senator, was chosen in his steed on the 26. of Nouember, all men hoping that his gouernment would procure great commodity to the* 1.1506 common-wealth, and so ended the yeare 1567. Not long after the Arcenall of Venice was set on fire, which was fearefull for the noyce it made, it beeing heard many miles off: after which followed an intollerable dearth, so as for the peoples reliese they were enforced to imploy the munitions which were reserued for the fleetes. [ 30]

These two inconueniences happening one after an other in the ci•…•…ty, did pro∣uoke the Turke to make an attempt vpon the Isle of Cyprus, beeing vrged there∣vnto by Iohn Miches, who of a Iew beeing become Turke, could doe much with Selim (as hath beene said). This man, the better to perswade him to the enter∣prize of Cyprus, did acquaint him with the aduertisement which he had receiued from the Iewes at Venice, how the Arcenall had beene burned on the third day of September 1569. where all the munitions had beene for the most part spoiled* 1.1507 and lost, together with the great dearth which had followed that losse, where with the citty was still afflicted.

Selim who long before then had beene desirous to seaze vpon that Island, and [ 40] to take it from the Venetians, and who for that purpose, had in the yeare 1567. secretly sent to the Duke of Sauoy, to incite him to recouer that Island, which did of right belong vnto him, promising him all ayde and succour, and to make him quiet possessor thereof; but the Duke giuing no eare therevnto, hee himselfe re∣solued to haue it by all meanes. As also because he beeing desirous to build a Mes∣quite (for no great Lord is truly proclaimed Emperor, vntill hee haue builded one, and endowed it with reuenues) was diswaded from it: their Mufti, (who among them is as the Pope with vs) saying that hee could not doe it, till hee had made some great enterprise against Christians, to the augmenting of his religion [ 50] and Empire, and hauing made a conquest, to endow it with the wealth thereof, it beeing no way lawfull for the great Lord to build a Mesquite with the reuenue of the Empire, or that of the Casnata (which is like to the Chamber of accounts in France) but onely with that of the countrey conquered by him.

He hauing along time debated these reasons with him-selfe, did at last resolue to communicate the matters to his Baschas. And departing from Constantino∣ple* 1.1508 in the moneth of Nouember, the third yeare of his Empire with his cheefe Baschas to ride on hunting, (the Turkes terme it the councell on horse backe) hee began to acquaint them with that enterprize.

Mahomet as Visier Bascha began cunningly to diswade him from it, as well for* 1.1509 the loue he did beare to Christians, as for the great profit which he ordinarily re∣ceaued from the Venetians, telling him that vpon what occasion soeuer hee was moued to take armes, either for Religion, Empire, or for glory, he ought by no meanes to breake with the Venetians, whose friendship had been euer proffitable for their nation: That he ought rather to attempt to releeue the Moores of Gra∣nado, [ 10] as a matter more beseeming the greatnesse, wherein by the grace of the great Prophet Mahomet the Ottaman Emperors were seated, not to aban∣don the defence of those, who by an holy and constant resolution had neuer for∣saken the Mahometan religion: That it was like wise necessary for the power and safty of his Empire, & for the glory which Selim seemed so much to desite, not to suffer any one Potentare to grow too great, but presently to abase those which might make head against the power of the Ottamans, such as was that of the king of Spaine, which though it would be a difficult enterprize, would neuer-the-lesse be full of glory and great hope. Therefore he besought him to acknowledge and make good vse of that great occasion which God offered him, to preserue the [ 20] faithfull Musulmans, to molest his enemies, and to open to him selfe away to great and glorious conquests.

The other Baschas Piali and Mustapha, did with no lesse vehemency then Ma∣hamet* 1.1510 had done maintaine the contrary, for they not onely enuying him, but ha∣uing declared themselues his open enemies, did euer crosse his deseignes & coun∣cels, and did more earnestly embrace this businesse, knowing that the great Lord did affect it, and highly extolling his deseigns, they hoped to win his fauor, and to disgrace him that councelled the contrary: Likewise, they thought that by coun∣celling him to what he was addicted, that they themselues should be employed in [ 30] that enterprize, the one by Sea, and the other by Land; wherevpon they perswaded him that the Venetians forces were of themselues weake, and the aide of Chris∣tian* 1.1511 Princes vncertaine and badly grounded, as they had knowne by experience: that the Isle of Cyprus being farre from Venice was not easily to be releeued, and easie to be enuaded by them, by reason of their neere neighbourhood: that it was a most rich and excellent Island, and very commodious for all his other states, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in a place, which might much assure his subiects nauigation vpon those Seas.

Selim lent a willing eare to those two, because they were of his opinion, and Mahomets credit was thereby much diminished, and his speech greatly suspected, [ 40] so as after-ward, that enterprize was resolued and concluded, to the which Selim* 1.1512 promised to goe in person, with such a will and resolution as all men thought that the very first yeare of his Empire he would haue vndertaken this warre if other lets had not detained him. For after Solimans death he found the Empire much was∣ted, by reason of his fathers continuall warres both at Malta, Zighet and in other places, where he had lost great numbers of Soldiers and spent much treasure: be∣sides, his army was ill prouided of all necessaries, which it behooued him to renew by rest and time, & with all to repaire his fleet; all which being done there was no more likelihood that it would be any longer deferred.

The Venetians were speedily aduertized of all these things, by Marke Antonio [ 50] Barbaro their Baily in Constantinople, a very wise & discreet mā, who at that time did many great and good seruices to the Commonwealth. But these things at the first seemed vnto them impossible, so as the Senators could hardly be drawne to beleeue it, for when motion was made of making prouisions for the nauall army

they answered that it behooued them to proceed discreetly therein, and not to prouo•…•…e Selim, who peraduenture had neuer thought on such a matter, which would rather hasten the danger then preuent it.

The end of the seuenth Booke of the sixth Decade.

[ 10]

The Contents of the eighth Booke of the sixth Decad. [ 20]

THE Senate are certainly aduertised of the Turkes en∣terprise vpon Cyprus. A Cypriot practiseth treason ouer the whole Island. The Venetians implore the ayde of all Christian Princes. The Pope soliciteth all Christian Princes, in the Venetians behalfe. The Venetians soli∣cit the King of Persia to make warre on Selim. The Turkes great preparations for the warre of Cyprus. [ 30] Selim by the perswasion of Bascha Mahomet, sendeth a defiance to the Ve∣netians, vnlesse they quit the Isle of Cyprus. The small entertainment giuen to the Chians of the great Lord. The Venetians prouisions and pre∣parations for the warre of Cyprus. The Popes Proposition to preuent the de∣lay of the vnion of the Armies. Mark-Antonio Colonna, Generall of the Popes Armie, in title of Gonfalonier of the Church. The enterprise of the Marquerites is broken off, by reason of the bad accesse to the place. The vnion of the Armies of the Pope, King Philip of Spaine, and the Veneti∣ans. [ 40] Mustapha, Generall of the enterprise of Cyprus. The Turkish Ar∣mie landeth in Cyprus. The small forces which were in the whole Island. The enemies come and encampe before Nicotia. The situation of the Citty of Nicotia. Those of Famagosta will not suffer Baillon to goe to Nicotia, who was sent for thither. And lastly the Prayers and Processions of those of Nicotia.

The eight Booke of the sixth Decad of the Historie of Uenice.

ANTONIO BARBARO Bayly in Constantinople ha∣uing [ 10] giuen sundry intelligences to the Senate, he sent the* 1.1513 last thither vpon the first day of Ianuary 1570. whereby he aduertised them, not of the common report, but of the certaine resolution made in the Councell of the great Turke, concerning the enterprize of Cyprus, although the Baschas did constantly affirme the contrary, vsing all meanes to keepe it secret. For the Bayly seeming to be∣leeue nothing of the matter, dealt with the Turkes, and chiefely with Ibrahim their Dragoman, who was one of the Visier Baschas Do∣mesticks, [ 20] and thereby more reckoned of, did sound him, and draw him into sun∣dry discourses of diuerse matters which hee had learned of the Bascha, about the prouisions which were made, and especially of the great number of ships which were built in the Gulphe of Aizza, and in the great sea; of the commandement giuen by the Captaine Generall of Asia, whom they terme the Beglerbey of Na∣tolia, to the soldiers of that Prouince to bee ready to goe to Caramannia, with other like matters, which gaue sufficient testimony, that the enterprise of the next ensuing Spring, was onely for the Realme of Cyprus, which they did meane to enuade on the sodaine. [ 30]

The Senate by these so often reiterated intelligences, desiring speedily to re∣deeme* 1.1514 the time which they had lost, began to prouide all things necessary for a long warre: Wherevpon they suddainly resolued to send troopes of soldiers in Garrison into Cyprus, commanding all the Gouernors of the Island, to take spe∣ciall care for the gard thereof, and to prepare for their owne defense, exhorting the people to bee loyall to them, and the Gentlemen which were feudatories, to make prouision of armor and horse, as they were bound to doe.

They did likewise speedily prouide for the other Sea-townes of their domini∣ons, sending men of authority to command their cheife Castles. They made great leuies of footmen in sundry places of Italy, and tooke into their pay the [ 40] best Captaines of those times: in a word, they left nothing vndone, which might serue to defend themselues or to offend their enemies; they caused great num∣bers of Gallies to be made ready in the Arcenall, they chose eleuen Captaines of the great Gallies, and made Francisco Duodo their Admirall, a man much estee∣med for his valour and skill at Sea, and fourescore captaines for the light Gallies, who were of the cheifest Gentlemen of the Citty, and best experienced in marine matters. Pietro Troni was made Captaine of the armed ships, Ieronimo Zene Pro∣curator of Saint Marke was declared Generall of all that fleet, hauing been cho∣sen to that office two yeares before, no occasion beeing offered them to send forth their fleet to Sea, and he by that meanes hauing not executed his place, [ 50] did neuerthelesse still retaine the same dignity. He was reputed both in particu∣lar and in publick to be a man till then very fortunate and had well and honorably discharged the most important offices of the common-wealth which had beene imposed vpon him. Al things being thus ordred, they waited for nothing but to

put them in execution, wherevpon they consulted how to employ those forces: some thinking it fit to send forth Galleys towards the Leuant, which lying in the hauens of Candy should bee euer ready in all occasions, which the time, and the enemies attempts should present: saying, That by so dooing they should encou∣rage their subiects, and encrease their reputation, and might besides breed diuerse doubts in the enemies mindes, which might for a time delay their iourney, they not determining to hazard themselues forth of the streight of Gallipolis, but with all their forces ioyned together, especially when they should vnderstand of any that were able to stay them. But opposition was made against this opinion, some saying, That the danger was greater▪ then the assurance which that aduise [ 10] did promise, because that those Galleys which the Turkes doe vsually keepe ar∣med at all times for the garde of their townes, are so many in number, as diuerse Fusts belonging to Pirats (which they ordinarily vse in time of warre) beeing ioyned vnto them, it might happen that ours would bee exposed vnto great danger, the which by so much the more was to bee auoyded, as the hope was great that all their forces beeing ioyned together, might execute some notable enterprize.

I will not forget to obserue by the way, how that some fewe moneths before Selim resolued on that seege, some of his councell seeking by all meanes to surprise that Kingdome, beganne to consult by what treachery and deceit they [ 20] might obtaine it, not fearing to be reprehended for it, but rather highly com∣mended, seeing that if the worst should happen they could but restore what they had taken.

Now as the way of trechery was the safest, it seemed likewise vnto them the ea∣siest: for if any towne of Cyprus should be taken in that manner, it was a very ea∣sie matter in regard of the neere neighborhood, not only to keepe it, but likewise* 1.1515 to seaze on others, by reason of the great and ordinary quarrels and dissentions a mong the Cypriots. For the execution of this deseigne, one Diasorinus seemed vnto them avery fit Instrument. He was by nation a Cipriot, by nature subtil and cunning, a great Courtier, and one that had much credit among the Cypriots. [ 30] To this man Scander, Gouernour of the higher Misia; sent letters full of courte∣ous complements, with whom by little and little he beganne to enter into a league of freindship, sending often-times letters and presentes one to an other.

After familiar conuersation by letters, Diasorinus being won through faire and goodly promises by the Gouernour gaue consent to betray his Contrey, and to that end, wrote to Scander, as often as any fit occasion was offered, sometimes in the Greeke tongue, and at other times in Charactery: The Characters were small animalls, as flies, ants, spiders, butterflies and such like.

But because Gods will was not to haue the Cypriots as yet to fal into that mi∣sery, they beganne to suspect Diasorinus, in regard of the frequent sending of [ 40] * 1.1516 letters and presents betwixt them, wherevpon, they found meanes to interrupt some of his letters which they finding to be written in Caracters with the figures of these animalls, they forthwith supposed that there was some secret in them which they would not haue all the world accquainted with.

Diasorinus was presently apprehended, his letters laid before him and beeing loath to confesse any thing hee was put to the tortures which made him to con∣fesse that not only himselfe, but diuers others of the cheife of the Island, drawne by the goodly promises of Scander, and wearied likewise with the Venetian Go∣uernment, vnto whom they would not giue place either for nobility or fot wealth, had conspired and determined to receiue the Turkes into the Island: wherevpon he with his other complices were put to death.

Now to returne to the Senates determination concerning the resisting of the Turkish Army: they resolued to place strong and sufficient Garrisons in the

Castles of Cyprus, speedily to send thither the necessary aid; and beeing ready to choose a Commander to conduct those forces, Eugenio Singlitico Count of Roccas a Gentleman of Ciprus, (who at the same time beeing Lieftenant Gene∣rall of the Army of the firme land, did for the most part continew at Venice) did* 1.1517 freely offer himselfe to aid his Contrey at such a need and to serue his Prince; wherevpon hauing a speedy dispatch he imbarked himselfe with a thousand foot∣men, the Senate hauing first made him General of al the Cauallery in the Island. Ieronimo Martinenga, Captaine of the men at armes, did likewise freely make offer •…•…o raise within a few dayes vpon other princes states two thousand footmen to conduct them to the releese of Famagosta, and to remaine there with them [ 10] * 1.1518 for the defense of the Citty: the which hee hauing in a short space done to his great honor, and brought them to Venice, to imbarke them in the vessells ap∣pointed for that purpose, he would first shew them in armes to the people in the* 1.1519 market place of Saint Marke, who tooke great pleasure to beehold them, which being done, they sailed towards Cyprus, but their Captaine falling sick at Sea, dyed within a few dayes after, for want of looking to, who was mightily beway∣led, & being carried into Ciprus was buried in Famagosta in S. Sophias Church.

The Senate beeing desirous to implore the ayde of all Christian Princes, sent* 1.1520 word to their Ambassadors residing in their Courts, that they should acquaint them with the cause, which at that time did onely concerne themselues, but would [ 20] shortly bee common to all Christendom; the which they did, not so much for any hope they had to bee releeued, as for that they were willing to take from them all cause of suspition that they despised other mens ayde, and that presu∣ming too much on their owne forces, they went about to precipitate into a ma∣nifest danger the euent of that warre, whereon depended the common cause of Christendome.

First of all they made meanes to the Pope, as well to draw some succors from him, as that hee by his authority should dispose other Princes to send them sup∣plies. Micaele Suriana was at the same time Ambassador for the Commonwealth at Rome, who augmenting the Popes good-will and disposition by sundry rea∣sons, [ 30] did continually solicite him effectually to embrace the protection of the Republick in a time so dangerous, by setting before him the example of other Popes, who vpon other occasions, had readily ayded them against that common enemy of Christendom: Hee did likewise put him in minde of the Republicks benefits bestowed vpon the Sea Apostolick, for the conseruation whereof, it had often-times exposed hir forces and State, against very mighty Princes: but hee* 1.1521 did cheefly set before his eyes, the manifest danger which threatned other Chri∣stian Realmes, and especially the Churches territories, if the Venetian State, which all men thought to bee the Bulwarke of Christendome should bee ouer∣throwne and ruined. [ 40]

By these reasons and diuerse others, the Pope beeing drawne to defend the Ve∣netians, hee seemed to bee very zealously affected to the cause, and desirous to prouide for the necessity of that warre, and to aide the Common-wealth; yet ne∣uerthelesse, excusing himselfe for that hee was not able to doe what hee would, hee bewailed the misery of his time, wherein the Sea Apostolick by sundry acci∣dents was very bare of means, and especially by reason of the troubles in France, which threatning the citty of Auignon, had constrained him to be at great expen∣ces: wherevpon although it was often propounded in the Consistory to embrace the Venetians defence, and to aide them; and that the proposition was approoued by the Colledge of Cardinals, yet neuerthelesse, it tooke no great effect: at the [ 50] first they were onely permitted to leuy vpon the whole Clergie of their State without any exception, the sum of an hundred thousand Ducats towards the ex∣pence of the warre. Hee did afterwards make a motion, to ioyne with all possible speed, the King of Spaines Galleys, with those of the Venetians, that they might

make a mighty fleet, able to resist that of the Turkes, and to disapoint their first attempts: And in the meane time to make a league with the same King and other Christian Princes, whereby all their forces might continually be ioyned together, to make head against the enemies greatnesse. The Ambassador Suriana acquain∣ted the Senate with his Holynesse proposition, who entreated them to accept thereof, and to referre the whole businesse to him; that hee would manage it as the common Father, with great affection, to the good of all Christendom, and to their owne particular desire and profit; the which the Senate very willing∣ly did.

The Pope for the beginning of this Treaty sent Lodouico de Torres, Clarke of the Apostolick Chamber, into Spaine to King Philip, to dispose him to ioyne his [ 10] forces with others against Setim Ottoman the common enemy, vnto whom ha∣uing related, from the Pope, as well the publicke interest of all Christendome,* 1.1522 as his owne particular, hee found his Maiesty ready and well inclined to doe that wherevnto his Holynesse exhorted him, referring neuerthelesse his finall answer till his arriuall at Siuill, (for hee was then at Corduba, at the assembly of the E∣states of Castill) but vpon Torres reply, that nothing would so much hinder that businesse as long delay; hee granted him, that his owne Galleys, with those of his Pentioners and Confederates, which amounted to the number of sixty fiue, be∣sides those of Spaine, who by reason of the troubles of Ganado continued vp∣on [ 20] those seas, should be brought into Sicely, commanding Giouan Andre Doria their Admirall to obey the Popes commandement, concerning the time and meanes to ioyne them with the Venetians, that they might afterwards saile into the Leuant: Hee did likewise obtaine a Commission to the Viceroy of Naples, and Sicill, to permit the Venetians to furnish themselues forth of these countreys with corne sufficient for the fleete: but as concerning the entring into the league, he answered, That it craued a larger and more mature deliberation for which hee* 1.1523 referred him till some other time: yet neuerthelesse within a while after his com∣ming to Siuill, he concluded it of his owne peoper motion.

The Venetians had enioyned Sigismond de Caualli their Ambassador with the Catholick King, to ayde and further the Treaty of Torres, who hauing well and [ 30] duly acquitted himselfe of that charge, returned to Venice: Leonardo Donato was sent thither in his place, who dealt so with the King, as hee continued him in that good desire and inclination.

Torres, hauing dispatched his businesse in Spayne, did for the same purpose make a iourney into Portugall, hauing first obtained letters of recommendation from the Kings mother, who lay then at Madrill. Sebastian the first of that name was at the same time King of Portugall, beeing seauenteene yeares old, bred and brought vp in Christian piety vnder the gouernment of D. Luigi Genzabeil a Iesuist, a man very famous and of great authority neere the King, by whose meanes the Pope presumed to obtaine of that Prince whatsoeuer he was able to [ 40] doe for the profit and serucie of Christendome- Torres hauing requested this King to send the tenne Gallies, which were vsually ready armed in that Kingdom, that they being ioyned with the King of Spaynes might altogether saile into Sici∣ly. The King shewed great loue and reuerence to the Sea Apostolick, and seeming to be desirous to satisfie his Holinesse demand, in a matter so holy, iust and hono∣rable, did to his great greefe excuse himselfe for that hee could not accomplish his good desire; saying, that his Gallies were at the same time vnready and dis∣armed by reason of the contagious sicknesse which had the yeare before beene at Lisbone, and that it would be impossible to make them ready vppon a suddaine, [ 50] or to be seruiceable that yeare: so as by this meanes Torres iourney into Portu∣gall was to no purpose.

During this negotiating in Spayne, Giouani Michaele being the Venetians

Ambassador with the Emperor, a man of singular vnderstanding and well seene* 1.1524 in affaires of importance, had already motioned the matter to the Emperor, tel∣ling him that the occasion was now offered which he had so often desired in their discourses together, how he might fearlesse enuade the Turkish States whilest they being busied at Sea might not haue leisure to succour them: and therefore he should not delay it till they had ended their warre and assured their Sea coasts at which time it was to be feared that they being freed from all other care, would seek to enlarge their Empire, by his losse and ruine: as for the small safety in the truce with them their Example might giue him sufficient testimony thereof, Selim hauing broken it with them, and infringed his, oath vpon none occasion, [ 10] * 1.1525 but only through a couetous desire to rule ouer the whole world. The Emperor gaue a willing care to these remonstrances, with a ready answer, that he would ne∣uer be wanting to the wealth and commodity of Christendome, but that he was desirous to see, how the King of Poland, the Muscouit, with other Christian Prin∣ces, and especially the King of Spayne would carry them-selues there-in, vnto whom hee woold send an expresse messenger into Spayne to know his mind.

As for Charles the ninth the French King, the Pope vsed all the meanes hee could by his Nuncio to draw him into the league, exhorting him to fauour and further it with all his power, notwithstanding al the domestick warres and broiles [ 20] * 1.1526 which had for certaine yeares molested his Kingdome; if not with his forces yet atleast with his name and authority; the which the King seeming not to be able to satisfie, and being likewise vnwilling to neglect the authority and exhortation of his Holinesse, he said, in manner of delay that he would see what others would do, who were more mighty, and free from all other letts; for he had at the same time sharpe warre in his Realme, where not long before the battaile of Mon•…•…contour, was fought betwixt his brother the Duke of Aniou, his Lieuetenant Generall, and the Photestants, of whom the Duke of Aniou gat the victory: But the Queene Mother who had the entier gouernment and managing of affairs, making a more open excuse, alleaged, That the condition of other Princes was not like to that of* 1.1527 hir sonne, because that others treated of continuing warre against their enemies [ 30] wheras they made a proposition in France to breake the truce with a most migh∣ty Prince their antient freind, and therefore that the businesse deserued longer and more mature consultation.

Yet neuerthelesse the King and Queene, gaue louing and kind speeches to the Venetian Ambassador residing in their Court, and besides diuers offers made to the Senate from them, by their Ambassador resident at Venice, the King did ex∣pressly send thither one of his Gentlemen to offer to the Signory that which the condition and misery of the time would permit his Kingdome, troubled with such gre•…•…uous accidents, namely to be a meane to diuert that warre, and to com∣pose* 1.1528 that controuersie with the great Lord; making vse in that manner of that [ 40] freindship, the which he himselfe had not contracted, but hauing found it establi∣shed by his Grandfather, and afterwards confirmed by Henry his father, he would vse meanes to preserue it, the which hee supposed would for that time bee to purpose, and redound to the profit of the Venetians, his ancient, and great freindes.

The Senate did not thinke those offers of any force at that time, the preparati∣ons for warre being very foreward on both sides, fearing least by an vncertaine hope of peace the mindes of other Princes, who were already much animated to warre would be so ftened: The Italian Princes were much disposed to this league, as the Dukes of Vrbin, Sauoy, Florence, and Ferrara, who did all of them offer [ 50] to spend their meanes and liues in that warre.

Tamas King of Persia was sollicited to take armes and to reuenge the old and new wronges receiued from the Ottomans, and to this end 〈◊〉〈◊〉 A∣lessandri a Cittizen of Venice was sent thither, who hauing dwelt a long time

at Constantinople could speake diuers languages. Hee beeing come to Casbin* 1.1529 where the King of Persia lay, was by meanes of certaine Armenian Marchants brought in by night, according to the manner of the Contrey, although it was in the summer time, before Sultan Caydar Mirisi the Kings third sonne, who was at the same time his Lieuetenant, with whom hauing a long time discoursed con∣cerning his comming •…•…hither, and telling him what great warlike preparations Selim made against the Venetians, together with the great prouisions of al Chris∣tian Princes to fight with him, hee entreated him in the name of the Senate to make vse of such an occasion, and to make warre vpon the Turkes in Asia, whilest the townes there should bee vnfurnished of Garrisons by reason of the warre of Cyprus. [ 10]

Caydar lending a willing care to this discourse, did dilligently craue to bee in∣formed of the whole mattter, not promising him any thing, but to procure him audience of the King his father. But Alessandri perceiuing that they vsed many delaies therein, beeing aduised and assisted by Coza Ali a marchant of Tauris, vn∣to whom (he comming with him from Venice) the busines had been recommen∣ded, he beganne to deale with the great Chancellor of the Kingdome, who after diuers ordinances, made a free answer, That his King was a very wise and discreet* 1.1530 Prince, who knowing that in a matter of so great importance it was necessary to proceed very maturely, he would first see the successe of the league, wherevppon [ 20] he might afterwards more safely resolue.

Alessandri hauing receiued this answer, and perceiuing that he could not bee admitted to speake with the King, left Persia: for he plainly discerned that Tamas, being very old, was altogether adicted to peace, and auoided all occasions which might cause the Turkes to suspect that he had any intelligence with Christians a∣gainst him

Such were the Venetians preparations, such their resolution, and thus did they treat with forraine Princes, that beeing vnited together they might oppose themselues against that Common enemy: at what time the Turkes beganne to vse hostile actions, & staied diuers Venetian Marchants with their goods who tra∣ded [ 30] at Narenta, and other places of Albania in the Turkes dominions; they did likewise vnlode (although vnder another cullor) two Venetian shippes which were at Constantinople, not suffering them to depart from thence. Therevp∣pon it was thought fit at Venice to doe the like by the Turkes subiects, and their goods, to the end that vppon all occasions the bodies and goods of those men might be answerable for their subiects.

Whilest the Venetians were busied in their preparations, the Turkes at Con∣stantinople did hasten the prouision of all necessaries for their iourney, they did* 1.1531 in their Arcenall build new Gallies, trimmed the ould ones, cast new peeces of Ordnance: enroll great numbers of Pioners in Grecia, made huge proportions [ 40] of Biskets in Morea, sent fiue and twenty Gallies to Alexandria, to fetch all pro∣uisions made there for the Army, and Selim continuing his resolution to goe in person with the army, they prepared an infinite number of vessels called Mahon∣nes, and Palanderias, and made great prouisions of all things, according to the custome of that nation whenso-euer their great Lord doeth goe vnto the Army.

But the Baschaes, Mustapha, and Piali, with diuers others of the Councell vnto whom the enterprize of Ciprus was committed, consulting afterwards on what course were best to be held in that warre, and there being some contrariety found in their opinions, some stay was made of the businesse. [ 50]

In the meane time, the Venetian Baily that lay at Constantinople, beeing ac∣quainted with all these proceedings, tooke great care how he might aduertise the Senate thereof; to write he durst not, fearing least his letters would bee intercep∣ted, as some of his had already beene, wherevppon, knowing that the Bascha

Mahomet was euer against this enterprize, hee did hope by his meanes to ob∣taine* 1.1532 his desire: Hee did by Ibrahim acquaint the Bascha, and afterwards himself by word of mouth, how-ill beseeming it was for the Maiesty and generosity of so great a Prince, to inuade those on a sudaine and vnlookt for, who vpon his word and oath, thought themselues safe and firme, as though when time and occasion should bee offered, hee could want forces to employ against them, for the reco∣uery of that which hee might iustly thinke did belong vnto him, against whom hee ought first to proceed by way of Iustice, and next by force, vsing first gentle meanes, before hee did take Armes. The Bascha being mooued by these reasons,* 1.1533 perswaded the great Lord, to send some of his seruants to Venice, to demand [ 10] the Realme of Cyprus, before hee sent his Army to enuade it, which councell Selim allowed. Cubat Chiaus was appointed to that end, who some two yeares before had beene at Venice vpon other businesse: the Bayly vnder this coulor, tooke occasion to send one of his seruants to accompany the Chiaus, to conduct him safely thorow the Venetians territories, and to cause this negotiation to bee the more esteemed, Hee determined to send Lodoutco Bonriey, his Secretary, whom hee thorowly instructed with all matters; hee did likewise obtaine leaue of the Bascha to send his yong sonne Lodouico to Venice, fearing least hee should miscarry among those Barbarians, in such wretched times.

This proposition to send to Venice, did occasion an other good, for there was [ 20] a suspention of Armes on the Turkes side, till the returne of the Chiaus, whereby the Venetians had time to man their townes with strong garrisons, and to pro∣uide for their affaires. The Chiaus beeing come to Venice, the Senate beeing before aduertised of the cause why hee came, and hauing resolued vpon an an∣swer, commanded that no man should talke or conuerse with him; but beeing left alone with the Secretary Bonriccy, and two Dragomans, they decreed that without any other ceremony, hee should haue priuate audience; where hee com∣ming into the Senate, and beeing placed in the vsuall seate, vppon the Princes right hand, hee went and kissed his Gowne, and after diuerse reuerences, hee pre∣sented* 1.1534 a pursse of cloth of gold Tissue, wherein according to the custome of that [ 30] nation, Selims letters were, and said: Most excellent Prince, this is a Letter from my Lord, when you are acquainted with his demand, I expect to haue an answer: Wherevnto the Prince answering that it should bee so, and the Chiaus standing still, perplexed in minde, because no other speech was vsed to him, added.

My Lords, Mahomet the Visier Bascha hath commanded mee to tell you, that hee is very sorry, that an occasion is offered, that hee must needs breake off from you, hauing euer sought by all meanes to continue your friend: but complaints comming so often to the Porte, and from so many places, of the vnfriendly dea∣lings of the officers belonging to this State, and especially of the kinde enter∣tainment and reception giuen to the Westerne Pirates in Cyprus, who this very [ 40] yeare, haue done great hurt to the Musulmans, hath taken such impression in the minde of the great Lord, and hath so prouoked him against this State, perceiuing that speech vsed so often vpon these complaints to your Bayly, hath beene to no purpose, as his authority hath beene no longer able to keepe warre from beeing denounced against you: and because hee knoweth that yee cannot long hold out against the power of so potent a Prince, hee aduiseth you as a friend to take some other course to shield you from so many dangers, and to this end he hath procu∣red my comming hither, and offereth to doe all hee may, that yee may auoyde this mighty stroake of fortune, and continue your ancient friendship with the great Lord: and hauing ended his speech hee presented a letter from the same [ 50] Bascha, conteining in substance that which hee had spoken.

The Chiaus hauing deliuered his message, the Prince told him, that the Se∣nate* 1.1535 had resolued on an answer, the which should bee read vnto him, that hee might the better vnderstand and know their intention: Wherevpon hee com∣manded

Antonio Milladonna, Secretary to the Councell of Tenne, to read it, which in effect was thus. That the Senate did greatly maruaile, that his Lord beeing no way by them prouoked, nor vpon any iust cause, would violate and en∣fringe that oath, by which he had so solemnly confirmed the peace, and tooke for a pretence to make warre vpon them, that they should giue away a kingdome which the common-wealth had for many yeares lawfully and peaceably enioyed; the which hee might bee well assured that they would neuer part from; but seeing hee was determined to proceed against them after that manner, the Venetian Senate would not faile to defend that which did belong vnto it, hoping by so much more to bee the better able to doe it, by how much the iustice of their [ 10] cause would procure them all ayde and succour, both diuine and humaine. They told him afterwards, that his Lords letters beeing translated and read, hee should receiue an answer, and so the Chiaus without any farther discourse was dismissed.

The beginning of those letters was stuffed with sundry complaints against the* 1.1536 Venetians, for that they had disquieted the ancient bounds of Dalmatia, which by conuention, made with his predecessors, had beene established betwixt both the one and other Empire: that contrary to the old and new agreement, the Admi∣ralls of the Venetian Galleys h•…•…d put diuerse Turkish Pirates to death, after that they had taken them aliue in fight; but especially for that the Westerne Pirates were welcome into the Isle of Cyprus, who did continually disquiet his neigh∣bour [ 20] cit•…•…ies, and barred his subiects from their free nauigation▪ then toward the latter end hee craued, that if the Venetians were desirous to continue their anci∣ent friendship with him, that they should surrender vnto him the Isle of Cyprus, to take away that cheefe cause which did entertaine those controuersies betwixt them; otherwise, they should prepare for a fierce warre by sea and land, for hee was determined to send his nauall Army with great forces to take that Island, and in other places to inuade their dominions by land, hoping in God, the giuer of victories, and in his blessed Prophet Mahomet, by whose fauour the Ottoman Family had obtained so great an Empire, to be victorious in that enterprise.

The Senate made this answer to these letters. That the Venetians had euer [ 30] inuiolably maintained peace made with the Ott•…•…man Emperors, and contemned* 1.1537 all other respects whatsoeuer, by refusing all occasions whereof they might haue made good vse to their owne profit: because that aboue all other things they thought it fit and beseeming a Prince, carefully to keepe his promise, and they be∣ing desirous to auoyde all suspition of so great an infamy, had dissembled and buried in silence, diuerse wrongs done vnto them, because they would not bee the first desturbers of the peace: But now perceiuing that vppon no occasion, warre is denounced against them, at such a time as they least expected it, they would not refuse it, for the defence of their owne, and in particular for the de∣fence of the Realme of Cyprus, the which as their Aucestors had enioyed it [ 40] with so iust a title for so many yeares, they did likewise hope that God would giue them the grace to defend it valiantly against all those that would vniustly take it from them.

Warre beeing in this sort denounced against the Venetians, and by them en∣tertained, the Senate made a decree to sell diuerse publick possessions, to accept of sundry loanes of money, to the great profit of those that brought them, and* 1.1538 in a word to vse all meanes to gather great sums of money together: wherevpon for this purpose the number of the •…•…rocurators of Saint Marke was augmented, which is the cheef dignity next to the Duke, bestowing it vpon those that should lend twenty thou•…•…and Ducats: to the Common-wealth: they did likewise permit [ 50] all young Gentlemen to enter into the great Councell before the time appoin∣ted by the lawes, who thereby might be capable to elect magistrates, and like∣wise to execute the like places themselues, so as they would lay in deposito cer∣taine sommes of money in the publique treasury.

The surcease of armes had continued for a while till the returne of Cubat, and the end of his negotiation, but being come to Raguza, the answere which he brought was soone divulged, wherevpon the souldiers that lay in the parts neere adioyning, not tarrying for any others commandement being assembled in great* 1.1539 numbers, did not only waste and spoile the champaine country of Albania and Dalmatia which was subiect to the Venetians, but went and encamped before Dulcina and Antiuari, who finding them to be manned with strong Garrisons and hauing no ordnance to batter them, they were enforced to retire.

Now the Chiaus being returned to Constantinople, and the Senates answere being knowne, all men did greatly wonder at it: for the Turkes hauing seene in [ 10] former time what deere account the Venetians made of the great Lords friend∣ship, supposed that they would try all meanes before they would take armes a∣gainst him. But Selim did not so much wonder as he did scorne and disdaine, ac∣counting himselfe highly wronged and contemned in his owne person, because that the vsuall ceremonies and entertainments done to Ambassadors had beene denied to Cubat, and for that they had not sent an expresse messenger to him with their answere, but had contrary to their promise, detained the Secretary Bonricci at Venice. In regard whereof his pleasure was, being so councelled by Mahomet, to haue Cubat come into his presence, and particularly to relate the Venetians speeches and entertainment giuen vnto him, together with their preparations [ 20] * 1.1540 for warre: which he vnderstanding from his mouth, was some times amazed at the report of the Republikes forces, repenting him in a manner of his determina∣tion, and on a sodaine he would enter into rage and choller, being therevnto pro∣uoked by his owne pride, and by the flattery of his councellors: wherevpon, he placed gards about the Baylies house, that he should not goe abroad, comman∣ding the Bashas of Cairo and Aleppo to doe the like to the Venetian Consuls of Alexandria and Syria yet they were afterwards set at liberty, on condition they should not depart nor conuay their marchandize forth of the Turkes Dominions.

[illustration]

LODOVICO MOCENIGO [ 30] the 85. Duke.

[ 40]

[ 50]

IN the meane time Prince Loredan died at Venice, and Lodouico Mo∣cenigo was chosen in his place, to the peoples great ioy and vnusuall applauds, presuming that they had a Prince, who was wise, discreet, and a louer of the poore, and would constantly oppose himselfe a∣gainst all those perils and dangers which did then threaten the Commonwealth.

The Sena•…•…e after this election hauing acquainted all Christian Princes with the comming of the Chiaus to Venice, together with their answere, went about to continue the former motions of the league. Therefore for the greater re∣commendation of the matter, they resolued to send an expresse Ambassador to the Emperour, and to that end they appointed Giacomo Sourance, a man of great* 1.1541 authority and reputation, who had a long time delt for the Commonwealth in Princes Courts; the Senate thinking it necessary, first to solicit that Prince, who already beganne to grow could in the businesse, to the end that by his example other Princes might be drawne into that vnion for Christendome.

Being come to the Emperors Court, he found that he did alleadge sundry dif∣ficulties, [ 10] and that he was ready to send the tribute to Constantinople, which he v∣sed to pay to the Turke for the Realme of Hungary, the which he vsed meanes to hinder, or at least to delay it till the finall resolution. Yet neuerthelesse the Em∣peror* 1.1542 seemed to bee glad of his comming, either for his owne excuse or else be∣cause he desired to haue an expresse Ambassador to come from the Signory a∣bout that matter, to the end he might be present at the Imperiall Dyet which he determined within a while after to hold at Spire, and hee supposed that his pre∣sence would be the occasion of propounding and concluding so great and impor∣tant a matter.

As for the Spanish Court there was no speech of the league, that King hauing [ 20] sent backe the treaty thereof to Rome to D. Estuniga his Ambassadour and to the Cardinals 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Pacheco, but the Popes Nuncio and the Venetian Am∣bassador made earnest request, that the King would command Doria, that so soone* 1.1543 as he should bring those Gallies, which he had appointed him into those seas; to goe presently and ioyne with the Venetians fleet, concerning which proposition those of the Kings Councell made sundry difficulties, some times alleadging that it was against reason that the Admirall of the Kings Gallies should obey the Ve∣netians Admirall: then they made shew to suspect that the Venetians went a∣bout to make vse both of the apparence and name of those forces to treat with more aduantage with the Turkes; and therefore they concluded that the treaty [ 30] of the league ought first to take place, as most necessary.

Now at Rome, whither the treaty of the league had beene sent backe (as hath* 1.1544 beene said) the Pope perceiuing that to particularize the conditions thereof, would breed a very hurtfull delay, he propounded, that seeing the King of Spaine and the Venetians were agreed to make that vnion, that without any more de∣lay, they should publish the league, being made in the same manner as in the yeere 37. and that in the meane time their forces should ioyne together, to inuite other Princes to declare themselues, and thereby to affright the enemies.

During these practizes the Generall Zanne departed from Venice about the beginning of Aprill, and went to Zara, which was the Rendezuous of all the fleet, [ 40] and for all the prouisions for warre, that so soone as things were ready they might from thence saile into the Leuant. But the fleet, to their great hurt, stayed there longer then was expected, tarrying for certaine Gallies, and for armes for the souldiers, and other warlike engins ordained in great number, for the soul∣diers* 1.1545 did endure there sundry discommodities, and many of them grew sicke, by meanes whereof the Gallies were badly furnished with souldiers and marriners: yet neuerthelesse so soone as the Senate heard newes from Rome that the King had commanded Doria to ioyne with the Venetian nauall army, it wrote to the Generall, that leauing foure Gallies for the guard of the Gulphe, vnder the com∣mand of one of the captaines that had at any time beene an Admirall, he should [ 50] speedily saile with the residue of the army to Corfou, and there to expect newes from the Gallies of Spaine, that he might afterwards ioyne with them at Messina, and the two fleets beeing so vnited should shape such a course as God should direct them.

According to this commandement Zanne departed from Zara the twelfth day of Iuly and sailed to Liesna, where he found sixe great Gallies, and certaine ships which he ioyned to his fleet, and from thence, he went directly to Corfou. At the same time, twelue Gallies were in the Popes name armed at Ancona to be sent to the Venetian fleet at Corfou. For, after sundry propositions made in open consistory concerning the aide which the Church might affoord the Veneti∣ans* 1.1546 in that warre, it was concluded that twelue Gallies should bee armed by the sea Apostolike, but rigged by the Venetians. The Pope committed them to Marc Antonio Colonna duke of Palliano with title of General to the Church in that warre against the Infidels.

The Venetians seemed to approoue the Popes choise and wrote to him about [ 10] it, Colonna sent letters to Venice, wherein hee gratified their loue and good will towards him, which he promised in all points to answer to the honour and seruice of the Commonwealth.

The Turkes on the other side so soone as the Venetian fleete was gonne from Zara, beganne to spoile and waste Dalmatia, with great troupes of horse and foot, where they tooke some castles. Now the Venetian Generall being come to Corfou with three score and tenne light Gallies (for the great Gallies and Ships staied by the way) he beganne to consult what was best to bee done (in the councell, by the Senates appointment, besides the Generall who had two voices both the Prouidators of the army and Sforza Palauicin were present) all men [ 20] were desirous that the fleete should without delay passe forward; but many things hindered this deseigne; first, because they had no certaine newes of the Gallies of Candy, which were in number twenty, vnder the command of Marco Quirin Admirall of the Gulphe, and next because they had no certaine intelli∣gence of the deseignes of the Turkish fleet; for it would haue beene a very rash attempt with halfe the forces to haue hazarded the whole fortune of that w•…•…rre on the incertaine euent of one fight, seeing that by a little temporizing they might more commodiously assure the estate of that action.

And lastly because the sicknesse which first beganne at Zara, by reason of the [ 30] miseries which the souldiers and ma•…•…riners had there endured, was so mightily* 1.1547 encreased, as great numbers daily died, whereby many Gallies were empty of men: this was the chiefe cause of the delay, and the captaines tooke great care how to make new leauies of men to furnish the fleet: To this end, commande∣ment was sent to the Gouernors of Zant and Cephalonia to raise the speediest and greatest supplies that they possibly could.

In the meane time because the souldiers should not grow idle, the Generall resolued to send them to beseege the castle of Marguerits, a place of it selfe no∣thing famous, but very necessary for the obtayning of other conquests, in which action it was thought fit to employ them, till such time as the Gallies of the [ 40] Pope and the Catholike King should arriue. The charge of this enterprise was giuen to Sforza Palauicin Generall of the Venetian troupes, who departing from Corfoù with eight and forty Gallies, commanded by the Prouidator Celsi, with fiue thousand foote and foure great peeces of ordnance, arriued by day breake in the Hauen of Nista opposite to it, where he speedily landed his soul∣diours, and willed them to march on a sodaine to assaile the enemies, thereby hoping with ease to surprize them and to seize vpon the place, and to this pur∣pose, he sent certaine Harquebuziers before, and himselfe followed after with the residue of his forces: but hauing marched a great while through narrow and* 1.1548 difficult waies, they did from farre descry the ca•…•…tle which they went to surprize, [ 50] being seated on the top of an hill, in a pla•…•…e of very difficult accesse. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 hauing well considered al matters and finding things to be otherwise then they had beene reported, thought it against reason, to hazard those troupes which were destined to greater atchiuements, and therefore on a sodaine hee turned backe

againe, although the Prouidator was of a contrary opinion, and counterman∣ding the Harguebuziers that he had sent before, he marched backe to the Hauen of Nista and returned to Corfou.

At the same time Marco Quirini came with his Gallies from Candy to Cor∣fou, hauing by the way taken the fort of Brazza de Menia, which the Turkes held. He was presently commanded to go with twenty Gallies and scoure the Islands of the Archipelago: wherevpon, he sailed to the Isle of Andros one of the renow∣ned Cic•…•…ades. Within a while after, the Generall Zanne receiued commandement from the Senate to saile with his forces farther vp into the Leuant, and by assay∣ling some of the enemies townes to diuert them from the inuasion of Cyprus. [ 10] Wherevpon, he left Corfou and went to Modon where Quirin with his Gallies met him, and within two daies after he arriued in the Isle of Candy anchor•…•…d in the Gulph Anfialea, which at this day marriners call the Hauen of Suda. The* 1.1549 Generall being there desirous to make speedy prouision of whatsoeuer the fleet needed, found great difficulties in it, chiefly in recouering suffitient numbers of men to supply the places of them that were dead, wherevpon, he sailed with forty Gallies to Candace the chiefe city of the Island, the sooner by his presence to hasten the necessary prouisions, leauing both the Prouidators and Palauicin in the hauen of Suda with foure score Gallies, enioyning them to leauy men from all parts. [ 20]

Now after that the fleet was sufficiently furnished with souldiers, marriners and other necessaries, they vnproffitably spent the time and the best season of the yeere, expecting the Popes and Spanish Gallies, the which, according to the Ve∣netians directions, being ioyned together, were to meet them in Candy. At the last, toward the latter end of August, Mar•…•…-Antonio Colonna the Churches Gene∣rall,* 1.1550 and Gio•…•…an Andrea Doria, the Catholike Kings, being arriued, the Venetian 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was merueilous ioyfull of their comming: The Generall and fleet went forth of the Hauen of Suda to welcome them, where according to the manner they saluted with volies of shot; then all of them entring together into the hauen, made no long aboad there, but after some propositions made, the whole fleet re∣tired [ 30] to Si•…•…hy, there more maturely to consult what were best to be done to free the Isle of Cyprus from inuasion.

Whilest the Christian fleet had spent much time in preparing and vniting it selfe togither, the Turkes with greater celerity had assembled all their forces, and being mighty at sea, had without any difficulty, prosperously pursued their enter∣prize, the which was more speedily performed, because that Selim, who said that hee would in person goe to the army changed his determination and resol∣ued to remaine at Constantinople, by the aduise of Mahomet and Mustapha,* 1.1551 to whose authority and councell all the other Bashas condescended. Selim then tarrying at Constantinople made Mustapha his Lieutenant Generall in that [ 40] warre, committing the whole enterprize by land to him, and all marine actions to Piali, Admirall of the Gallies. Piali within a while after departing from Con∣stantinople with fifty fiue Gallies and certaine other vessels, Mustapha set saile with like number, vnto whome for an extraordinary fauour the great Lord had giuen the Imperiall Galley to transport him, which is of extraordinary great∣nesse and most sumptuously decked, in which the great Turke embarketh himselfe when he goes forth on any enterprize. They anchored first at Negrepo•…•…t, then at Rhodes, where hauing intelligence that the Venetian fleet lay at Zara, and could not depart from thence by reason of ficknesse and other impediments, and that they had no newes at all of the Spanish fleet: the Turkes being out of feare [ 50] that the fleetes would ioyne together, and supposing that they durst not come on any farther, determined to saile directly to Cyprus: But as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Turkish fleet pas∣sed along from Negrepont to Rhodes, Piali made an attempt to take the fort of Tina, which is an Island in the farthest part of the Archipelago, belonging to the

Venetians, and comming vnlooked for in a morning to that Island thinking to surprize it, it was discouered at sea by Ieronimo Paruta a Venetian Gentle∣man Gouernor of the Island, a valiant and discreet person, who of a long time hauing feated their arriuall, hee made prouisions of all necessaries for defense. Hee perceiuing the enemies for to bend their course thitherward, shot off a warning peece to aduertize those of the Island that were abroad in the coun∣try, that they should quickly retire into the castle, which beeing done in time, they prepared themselues to withstand the Barbarians assaults, which were very cruell, not onely once, but twice and thrice, in euery of which, they were brauely repulsed, with great losse of their men, and were enforced to discampe, [ 10] * 1.1552 after that they had with incredible fury wasted the whole Island, burned the Country houses, ruined Churches, and slaughtered all the cattaile that were in that Island.

From Tina Piali went to Rhodes, where all their fleet lay which amounted* 1.1553 to more then two hundred armed vessels, accounting an hundred and fifty Gal∣lies, together with Fusts and Galeo•…•…s, but in the great fleete were certaine Ma∣honnes, which are like to great Gallies, not altogither so bigge as a Gallion, sixe ships, and great numbers of other vessels commonly called Caramuscolini, and some fifty Palandaries to transport horse.

This fleet bending it direct course toward Cyprus was discried neere to Baf∣fo [ 20] * 1.1554 on the first day of Iuly in the yeere 1570. which scoured all the coast from Limissa as farre as the Promontory commonly called the Cape of the Cat: then landing part of their forces they burned and spoiled the sea coasts, taking* 1.1555 many prisoners: the next day pursuing their iourney, they went to Salines, where finding no resistance, they vnship't their ordnance, and the rest of the souldiers who presently fortified their campe with deepe trenches and strong Rampiers, from whence they afterwards wasted and spoiled the country neere adioyning. Then marching to Leucata, nine miles from Salines they did easily make them∣selues* 1.1556 Masters of the country and people, vnto whom Mustaphaa gaue great guifts and goodly promises to draw on others, and especially those of the mountaines, [ 30] seeking rather to winne them by faire meanes then by force.

In the meane time they dispatched foure score Gallies and diuers flat bot∣tomed vessels to Tripoli, and to the Riuer of Caramania, there to raise other horse and foot for•…•…es, which arriuing in Cyprus, made vp the number (as most authors write) of fifty thousand foot, fiue and twenty hundred horse, three thou∣sand Pioners, with great numbers of horse of carriage and thirty peeces of great ordnance with an hundred and fifty Falconets.

There were no suffitient Garrisons in the whole Island able to resist these forces: for the ordinary Garrison was but two thousand Italian foot men, and some thousand others sent from the firme land, with Martinengos two thousand [ 40] souldiers, many whereof died by incommodious transportation; so that the greatest hope of beeing able to defend the townes and castles, consisted in the new supplies which those of the country had promised to leauy. There was no other cauallery in the whole Kingdome but fiue hundred Stradiors which were kept there in pay by the Common-wealth.

Things beeing thus, and suffitient forces wanting to repulse •…•…o mighty an enemy, for the cauallery was to weake for to hinder his landing, and the in∣fantery not suffitient to defend for any long time the two chiefe fortes which they held, Nicotia and Fa•…•…agosta, and for to guard the mountaines and other passages of the Island hee beeing landed: therefore they resolued espetially to [ 50] defend those two cities.

Astor Baillone who by Martinengos death was Generall of all the forces in* 1.1557 the Island, in the absence of the Prouidator (for Lorenzo Bembo died, not

long before) and other Venetian Magistrates, called a councell, where the chiefe offices and comma•…•…d in that warre were distributed to sundry Cypriot Gentle∣men, of honourable ranke, as well for their wealth as nobillity, but smally ex∣perienced in martiall matters. The Count Roccas was made Lieutenant to Baillone, Giacomo de Nores Count of Tripoli, Master of the ordnance, Gio•…•…an Singlit•…•…co captaine of the Cypriot cauallery, Giouan Sosomene, captaine of the Pioners, Scipio Caraffa, and Pietro Paulo Singlitico captaines of the foot, who were appointed to guard the strong places of the mountaines, and others were ap∣pointed to other places.

They did likewise conclude in that councell to attempt to hinder the enemies [ 10] landing; and to that end, the chiefest of them went into the field with the great∣est forces they could assemble, but, considering their enterprize to be to dange∣rous, and vnseasonable, the enemy hauing already landed part of his forces, they returned home to their Garrisons, so that the Turkes landed without any difficul∣ty, which made them at first to suspect, that they did it for some pollicy, to draw them afterwards into an ambuscado, wherevpon at their first arriuall they were very wary, but running afterwards vp and downe the country, and finding no opposition, beeing thereby emboldened, their army did not onely aduance forward but went about in disbanded troupes, without Ensignes to robbe and spoile at their pleasure. [ 20]

The Turkish captaines beeing vnwilling to loose time resolued to assaile one of the two chiefest fortes of the Island. Piali was of opinion, to beseege Fama∣gosta* 1.1558 first, hoping quickly to take it, and that it being taken, Nicotia would of ne∣cessity yeeld, which had many vnproffitable eaters within the circuit of her walles, which being seated farre from sea, in the middest of a champaine country, pos∣sessed by great numbers of enemies, could not bee releeued, nor without new prouision long hold out the seege: that Famagosta was no great fort, but weake, and so defectiue as it would neuer endure one onely battery, and that they within it were not many, or so bould and valliant as to sustaine any assault.

Mustapha mainteined the contrary, saying, that the reputation of so great an [ 30] * 1.1559 army as theirs, ought not to be blemished by attempting any meane enterprize, thereby to encrease the enemies courage, and diminish their owne: That the Geneuois for foure score and tenne yeeres had held Famagosta, at the same time as the Kings of the family of Lusignan commanded the Island, whereby might be gathered, that the taking of that city, would bee of no great importance for the winning of the whole Kingdome. That the Nobillity, and very many of the people were retired into Nicotia, that all the wealth and munition of the whole Island was there, so as that onely exploit beeing well performed would end all the rest, and their first attempt giue end to all their deseignes.

These reasons forcible in themselues and strengthened by the reputati∣on [ 40] of the author, caused them to resolue first to beseege Nicotia, whither the whole campe marched the two and twentith of Iuly, hauing first sent fiue hun∣dred horse towards Famagosta, to cut off all correspondence and intelligence be∣twixt those two cities▪ the Turkes pursuing their iourney approached neere to the walles of Nicotia. Great feare seized on the inhabitants when they perceiued the enemy at their Gates, like men who wanting discreet fore-sight to prouide for dangers a farre off, did extreamely feare them beeing neere at hand, hauing alwaies beene incredulous that the Turkish fleet would come in∣to the Island, though the Venetian Baily at Constantinople, and the Senate, [ 50] had giuen them many aduertizments thereof that they might prouide for their affaires in time.

Nicolo Dandulo was at the same time Gouernor of the city, a man to weake

to vndergo that burthen, which not desert but opinion had laied on him: yet to whom long experience had rather giuen abillity to execute, then nature to direct. The sodainnesse of the danger had encreased his feare, and his feare the danger, for, at the arriuall of the enemies army, the trenches were vnfinished, and the soul∣diers disordered, and the city vnvictualled.

Now whilest those in Nicosia, beeing incompassed with many miseries, were busied in furnishing the city with necessaries, and inconsulting by what meanes* 1.1560 to srustrate the enemies deseignes, they were so tedious in their resolutions, in regard they had no eminent Commander able to decide the controuersies which arose from diuersity of opinion, that the Turkes had time to pitch their tents, to plant their ordnance, and likewise for to fortifie their campe, which [ 10] stretched it selfe from Saint Marines as farre as Aglangia, possessing the whole space opposite vnto foure B•…•…lwarkes, and on the other side of the towne which was not enuironed by the campe both the Bashas did daily send an hun∣dred foote and as many horse, that none might issue forth or enter into the Citty.

This Citty is seated in the middest of the champaine, in an wholesome tem∣perate aire: it hath great store of water, and the soile is very fruitfull: In for∣mer* 1.1561 times it was nine miles in compasse about, but the Venetians bee∣ing desirous to fortifie it, reduced it to three: it is proportioned like a starre [ 20] with eleuen points, in euery of which is a bulwarke, made onely of earth, which were not yet finished when the Turkish army arriued: and the rules of fortifica∣tion were so well obserued, as the greatest Inginers accounted it the most ab∣solute peece in the world.

Howsoeuer, the City rather was vnfurnished of a skilfull Commander, and braue men, then of fortification. There were tenne thousand foot-men in the city, amongst whom were fifteene hundred Italians and the rest were natiue Cypriots, namely three thousand Cernedes, two thousand fiue hundred of the city, two thousand new men enroled in the townes and villages of Cyprus, that [ 30] were retired thither, and a thousand Nicotian Gentlemen, all with vnexperi∣enced troupes, were for the most part badly armed.

They likewise sent to Famagosta for to entreat Baillone to come thither with some certaine troupes to command the city: but those of Famagosta hauing no superfluous forces, and beeing vncertaine whether the enemy changing his determination would on a sodaine come and assaile them, did constant∣lo deny the Nicotians request, not suffering the aide they required, nor the captaine to goe forth of their city: vpon this refusall Baillone likewise excu∣sed his departure, adding that Martinengas souldiers by wanting a captaine, said that they would obey none but him, so that his departure might breed some great disorder and confusion in the City. Moreouer, there was store of or∣dnance [ 40] in the towne, which wanted but braue men for to mannage it: There were many Pioners, for besides foure thousand vnder the commaund of Gio∣uan* 1.1562 Sosomene, as many more were come to the citty; neuerthelesse, for all this great multitude of people, the captaines beeing diuided amongst them∣selues, this so necessary fortification was left imperfect, which did much wea∣ken the forces within it.

On the contrary side, there was in the enemies campe such agreement, and obedience towardes the captaines, as all military actions were speedily executed. Mustapha a couragious person and a great soldier, besides the ranke which he then held, had great credit and authority amongst the souldiers, in regard of the fame [ 50] * 1.1563 and reputation he had purchased for his command in Selims army before he was Emperour, when hee made warre on his brother Achomat, all men attributing

the vnexpected victory which ensued, to his onely valour and prowesse: and therefore the souldiers being accustomed to martiall deeds, trauaile and danger, were growne much more actiue and valliant, hauing their captaines valour for their obiect, togither with the hope of great reward if they were victorious.

His army was reported to be very strong, but his chiefe force were sixe thou∣sand Ianissaries, and foure thousand Spaches (these are horse-men, neuer out of pay, which some time when need is, fight on foote) all valliant men and bred vp in warre: Therefore by how much those of the city wanted humaine aide a∣gainst such forces, by so much greater was their recourse vnto God. For, day* 1.1564 and night praiers were made in priuate Houses and Churches, and sollemne [ 10] processions ouer all the city, which were performed with great deuotion and concourse of people, therein following the example and exhortation of Fran∣cisco Contaren Bishop of Baffa.

Hee at that time was chiefe amongst the Clergy in that city (for Philippo Moce•…•…igo Archbishop of Nicotia was then at Venice) did not cease to aide and assist the people as if hee had beene their owne pastor, and hauing on a time assembled the chiefe of the towne, in Saint Sophias Church, hee gaue them a briefe and learned exhortation befitting the time, from whence they departed so well satisfied and resolued, as they did put one an other in good hope and comfort of a fortunate issue of that warre, and did [ 20] brauely dispose themselues to defend their country.

The end of the eight Booke of the sixth Decade.

The Contents of the ninth Booke of the [ 10] sixth Decade.

THE Turkes beseege the City of Nicotia, with their fu∣rious battery. The taking of the Bulwarke Constance, whereof ensued the Cities losse. The Barbarous cruel∣ties [ 20] committed at the sacke of the City. Therest of the Island yeeldeth to the Turkes, Famagosta excepted. The Turkes approach the City of Famagosta, with the inhabitants resolution. The sundry opinions of the captaines of the Christi∣an army, who at last resolue to goe and fight with the enemy. Doria hauing intelligence of the losse of Nicotia, returnes home into his country. Many townes subiects to the Turkes yeeld to the Venetians. The Popes exhortati∣on for the conclusion of the league. The difficulties which arose in the con∣clusion [ 30] of the league. The Emperour refuseth to enter into the league. Sup∣plies sent to Famagosta. Mahomet Basha propoundeth a treaty of peace to the Venetians. The Venetians are doubtfull and vncertaine either for peace or warre. The Emperor opposeth himselfe against the title which the Pope had giuen to the Duke of Florence. The Pope and Spaniards seeke to the Vene∣tians, least they should make an agreement with the Turke. The league is concluded and signed, with the Articles thereof. Don Iohn of Austria is made Generall of the league. The meanes which the Venetians vsed to get [ 40] money. What Selim promised to himselfe after the taking of Nicotia. The ene∣mies are defeated in Candy. The Turkes spoile and waste the Islands of Zant and Cephalonia. And lastly the conditions of peace propounded to the Veneti∣ans by Mahomet Basha.

The ninth Booke of the sixth Decade [ 10] of the History of Uenice.

THe enemy without any empediment being come before Ni∣cosia, sent certaine horse to make incursions neere to the city, to draw those within it forth to skirmish; the Italians would gladly haue sallied, but at first the Gouernor would not suffer them; yet beeing ouercome by the importunities of all the captaines, he permitted Caesar of Vincenza, Lieutenant of the* 1.1565 Count Roccas, to sallie with certaine horse, which being few in number could not [ 20] execute any important matter, but onely sought to draw the enemy within the shot of the cities ordnance: and hauing done so two daies togither, a captaine of a troupe of Stradiots, whose name was Andre Cortese, was taken by the enemy, and being brought before the Basha, hee presently commanded his head to bee cut off.

The enemies afterward without any empediment did build a fort on Saint Marines mount; some foure hundred and forty paces from the city: for although the beseeged vsed all meanes to frustrate the enemies deseigne towards the cur∣taines of Podocatera and Caraffa (for so were those Bulwarkes called, by the name of those Gentlemen that had particular command in the building of them) and [ 30] did continually with their ordnance play vpon that part, yet, they could not hin∣der* 1.1566 the enemy, who wrought day and night, from executing his enterprize; who not satisfying himselfe with that one fort, did on a sodaine build three more in three other seuerall places, the one vpon a little hill at Saint Georges, the se∣cond opposite to the Bulwarkes Constancia and Podocatera, on a little rising, called Margueri•…•…s Mount, and the third on the top of the Mount Mantia, hoping with these fortes to batter the Bulwarkes, curtaines, and houses of the city.

They did afterwards make deepe and broad trenches which they brought vn∣to* 1.1567 the ditch of the old walles and placed courts of gard in them, which could not bee hurt by the cities ordnance: then, for foure daies space, without intermis∣sion, [ 40] from morning till night they furiously with all their ordnance battered the walles; but perceiuing it to bee to small purpose, because the bullets for the most part fell vpon earthen Rampiers and made no breach, they ceased the bat∣tery, and fell to the spade and ma•…•…tock, so as they presently came vnderneath the counter scarpes, thinking thereby to ouerthrow them: then they plaied vpon foure Bulwarkes, namely Podocatera, Constantia, Dauila, and Tripoli, all which* 1.1568 they determined to assault at once, in which for a long time both sides fought val∣liantly, but in the end the Turkes were with with great losse repulsed.

Mustapha wondering and raging thereat, beeing almost out of hope to take the City, solicited and animated his souldiers, to goe once againe to [ 50] the assault, promising great rewards to such as should doe valiantly, and after that hee had made a speech to them worthy a Generall, hee caused a proclama∣tion to bee made thorow the whole Army, that any three which should first

mount the citty walls should be made Sangiacks, and if any Bascha dyed, hee that should first enter the citty, should succeed in that dignity.

The souldiers beeing thus encouraged, the assault was resolued on: The next day early in the morning the Turkes marching by day breake in great silence to* 1.1569 the same Bulwarkes, assailed the besieged on a suddaine and vnlookt for, hoping thereby with more ease to obtaine the victory, (as indeed it did). For the Turkes finding those that had the garde of the Bulwarke Constantia halfe a sleepe, and* 1.1570 mounting furiously the Parapet, gaue them no time nor leisure to make any de∣fence, who beeing drowned in slumber and feare, forgat to retire into the Citty. [ 10]

The great opinion which the besieged had conceiued of the arriuall of supplies from the Common-wealth of Venice, which they so much desired, made them beleeue, that the noise which they had heard the night before, whilest the Turkes were preparing for the mornings assault, was a token of the enemies discamping; in regard whereof, and because they were oppressed with long watchings, and in∣tollerable labours, they had securely disarmed themselues, and fell to rest: The Turkes then in this confusion entring pell mell with the Christians into the last rampiers, there arose a great cry, accompanied with feare and amazement, wher∣vpon, many betooke themselues to open flight.

The Count Roccas quarter was neere to the Bulwarke, who by the suddaine [ 20] noyse beeing certified of that which was done, did presently arme, and comming in among the thickest throngs, hee found so great disorder there, as notwithstand∣ding all his meanes and perswasions to cause the souldiers to stand fast, and make valiant resistance, his labour was in a manner lost, to such a desperate passe were* 1.1571 matters brought, and himselfe beeing shot into the head with an Harquebuze, fell downe dead, wherevpon all those, that by his arriuall had taken courage, and began by little and little to make head, leauing the defense of the walls, ran home to their houses to prouide for the safty of their wiues and children. Pietro Pisani and Bernardino Polano Captaine of Salma, comming thither in hast, could not by their authority and example stay the disordered runne-awayes; among whom Polano thrusting himselfe, and going about to hold them back by force, was to∣gether [ 30] with them cut in peeces. Pisani perceiuing his fellow to be slaine, did with the rest retire to the market place, whither from all parts the poore inhabitants came, who were not yet pursued by the Turkes, who hauing taken the Bulwarke Constantia, would before they went on any farther, make themselues maisters of* 1.1572 all the rest, in which the Italian footmen did still fight brauely with the enemy: but in the end when they perceiued their strong places to bee lost, and that they were at once assailed in front and on their backs, beeing vnable to make any long∣er resistance, they abandoned the walls, and making themselues way thorow the middest of the enemies, they retired to the market place, where they made head for a time, vntill that the Basha of Aleppo arriued, who entring the towne at the [ 40] Bulwarke of Tripoli, went first to make good the walls, where hee made great slaughter of such as hee met with, and finding no more resistance, hee marched towards the market place, where seeing so many armed people to make head, hee caused three peeces of Ordnance to bee brought from the walls, and bestowing his shot among them, hee enforced them to quit the place, many of whom reti∣red* 1.1573 to the Pallace; whither the Gouernor, Bishop Contaren, and many of the chiefe Cittizens had already escaped, those which could not enter, running vp and downe heere and there thorow the streetes, were presently either slaine or taken prisoners. [ 50]

They within the Pallace hauing receiued the Baschas word for the safety of their liues, so soone as they had opened the gates, the Turkes presently runne in vpon them, who were able to make no resistance beeing vnarmed, where they were all murthered: therein, the Gouernor, Bishop, and common people run∣ning one selfe same fortune.

That beeing done, and the Turkes freed from farther trouble, they ran confu∣sedly* 1.1574 and without Enseignes about the citty, sacking houses, spoiling and ruining Churches, dishonouring wiues, rauishing virgins, and putting all to the edge of the sword, without distinction of age or condition, so as that day, twenty thou∣sand persons dyed by the hands of the Turkes: and those whom the cruell enemy left aliue, rather to reserue them for some miserable punishment, then for any compassion towards them, were bound in chaines, and haled to prison ouer the* 1.1575 dead bodies of their friends and kinsfolke. In this manner did this Citty in one day, taste the extreamest of calamitie, which for a long time had liued in great pompe and magnificence, nay rather in all excesse and dissolutenesse, seruing for [ 10] an example of the inconstant mutability of humaine affaires. The Citty was taken and sackt vppon the ninth day of September, and the foureteenth day of the siege.

The Turkes did afterwards with ease become Lords of the rest of the Island, Famagosta excepted. For the other townes following the victors fortune, did* 1.1576 presently yeeld, and Cerina likewise as readily as the rest, notwithstanding that Giouan Maria Mudazzo Captaine of the Castle, and Captaine Alphonso Palazza beeing entreated by those of Famagosta, had determined to hold out and braue∣ly to desend it. Those of the mountaines did the like, Scipio Caraffa, Paulo Singliti∣co, with diuerse other Gentlemen, and some Greeke Preists, and great num∣bers [ 20] of Countrey people, yeelding them-selues to Mustapha, vnto whom they sware fealty and aleageance; so that the Venetians possessed nothing in the Island but onely Famagosta, whither Mustapha determined to march, leauing 4000. footmen for the gard of Nicotia.

Mustapha, hauing taken order for Nicotia, marched towards Famagosta with his whole armie, and encamped at the village Pomodama, three miles from the Citty, causing his Turkish horse to make dayly incursions to the very gates, who bore the heads of the chiefest Nicotians vpon their lances points, to daunt the souldiers, and to diuert them from their resolution in susteining the siege: hee did afterwards draw neerer to the Citty, making great trenches: but those within [ 30] the towne •…•…allying to skirmish, did so disquiet the enemies, as they twise draue them from their trenches, and with their ordnance did ruine three Forts which they had almost finished in places very commodious for them; namely at Saint Georges, Perispola, and at the Crane tower, which neuerthelesse, did afterwards do them great hurt, for they therein spent aboue fifty thousand pound weight of powder, which since then they wanted.

Now because winter drew neere, an vnfit season for a siege, which they percei∣ued would prooue long and difficult, and that it behooued him besides to streng∣then his Galleys, by reason of the intelligence hee receiued of the vniting of the Christian fleete; Mustapha beeing vnwilling to enterprize any thing, that might [ 40] darken or eclipse his glory purchased at Nicotia, did often and in sundry sorts so∣licite those of the citty to entertaine some agreement, and to yeeld: He permitted Iohn Sosomene, who had beene taken at Nicotia to go to Famagosta, vpon his own word, to procure money to pay his ransome, that hee might exhort them to a vo∣luntary yeelding, and to tell them that they could by no meanes hold out long. But the Captaines, Magistrates, and people of Famagosta, resoluing to defend it to the last man, would in no sort listen to his discourse, but insteed of intreating the Senate to quit that citty to the enemy, they humbly besought it to send them aid: and the better to acquaint it with what they needed, they resolued to send Nicolo Donato to Venice, with two Galleys, and with him Ieronimo Ragazzone, the [ 50] Ci•…•…ties Bishoppe, who was well instructed of all matters, and very fit for such a businesse.

But it is now time to returne to the Christian fleet, which departing as hath

beene said forth of the Hauen of Suda was come to Sithy, where the Captaines beganne to consult what was best to be done. Propositions were made by some of them to enuade some places belonging to the Ottoman Empire, and thereby enforce the enemies to leaue Ciprus to come to the reskew of his owne, affir∣ming* 1.1577 it to be the surest meanes to frustrate the enemies deseignes. The Gene∣rall Zanne was of a contrary opinion, perswading them to saile directly to Cy∣prus, alleadging how that the fleet was cheefly destined for the defen•…•…e of that Kingdome, which by directing their course elsewhere could not bee preserued from the danger which threatened it: That the only remedy was to goe and fight with the enemies fleet, because that vpon report of their comming, the Turkes would be inforced to quit the land enterprize and to retire to their nauy for the [ 10] defence thereof: which if they shouldnot doe, they were then sure to find the empty Gallies in the Hauen exposed to their mercy: That it was most likely, that the Turkes, vpon intelligence that the Venetians forces and Gallies were v∣nited* 1.1578 with those of the Pope and King of Spayne, would presently leaue Cyprus, not to fight, but to returne to Constantinople: and that therby they might find meanes to incounter them by the way, & fight with them with great aduantage: for though they were Inferior to the enemies in number of men and vessells, they were neuerthelesse without all doubt in goodnesse of shipping, and magnanimi∣ty and courage superior to them; beeing besides fresh and lusty, whereas the e∣nemies could not but be much wearied and wasted with their exploits done since [ 20] their arriuall in the Island moreouer, to approach the enemies fleet, though no other profit should ensue thereof, would encrease their owne reputation, wheras on the contrary to turne away from such an enterprize would argue feare and cowardize, encrease the enemies courages and diminish their owne, especially theirs that haue the guard of the Fortes in Cyprus: That it was no sound aduise to loose ones owne vppon hope to get it of another man, and least of all when as a weaker Prince, such an one as was the Common-wealth of Venice, could hard∣ly defend it being gotten, or recouer from the Turkish power and in the middest of all his warlike countrey that which is lost. [ 30]

These reasons beeing strong and forcible were approued by euery one, as a∣greeable to the Senates decree, namely to leaue all other enterprizes and to in∣tend the voyage of Cyprus already resolued, wherevppon the fleeet departed from Candy the eighteenth day of September to saile thitherward.

The whole fleet consisted of an hundred and fourescore light Gallies, namely an* 1.1579 hundred and foure and twenty of the Venetians, twelue of the Popes, and fiue and forty of the Catholick King: and besides all these, twelue great galleys, and foureteene Venetian men of warre, with great numbers of other vessels of bur∣then, which carried Munitions and other necessaries. In the whole Nauie there were fifteene thousand mercenarie footmen, besides great numbers of volunta∣ries, [ 40] and the most of them Gentlemen, and men of note, commanded by sundry Captaines of great experience and reputation. The fleete sayling with a faire winde towards Cyprus, did in three dayes, rid away three hundred miles, and ar∣riued at Castel-rosso, which is seated on a rock, opposite to Caramania, some hun∣dred and fifty miles from Cyprus, where by reason of night that stole vpon them, and a tempest that arose, they were enforced to land in the Hauens of Vathi and Calamita, where the same night they receiued sorrowfull newes of the losse of Nicotia.

This did greatly trouble the whole fleete, wherevpon the next day a Coun∣cell* 1.1580 was called, to determine what was to bee done. Such as from the begin∣ning [ 50] had not approoued that iourney, did then condemne it more then before: and Doria did openly protest, that he would returne home, and said, That he came from Candy, with an intent to releeue Nicotia, which beeing lost, the cause of his iourney ceased, and that he knew none other reason sufficient to expose them to

the hazard of a bataile, which in regard of the losse of that Citty was much more to be well considered: because that the enemies beeing then free from land acti∣ons, and growne more proud and insolent by meanes of the victory, would bee imbarked in their Vessells, not alone to repulse but to assaile vs; adding heerevn∣to, the vnfitnes of the season, winter drawing on, & the long iourny they were yet to make before they should arriue at their wished Hauen, and also his particular charge of preseruing his fleet which was committed vnto him by the Catholicke King.

These reasons making him resolute in his opinion, he could not be diuerted from* 1.1581 it by the Generall Zanne, nor by the Prouidator Veniero, who being already im∣barked [ 10] for Ciprus, seemed highly to allow of that iourney, each of them telling him that since they were come so farre together, he ought with them to run one selfe same fortune, and make proofe of the hazards of warre, wherof they should not afterwards haue cause to complaine, thereby blotting out the infamy which all men might throw vpon them, for hauing such gallant forces and consuming so much time in vaine without attempting any memorable matter: but all these perswasions were to no purpose with him nor with the rest likewise who had noe liking to the iourney, who vpon Dorias refusall to goe on any farther, the Gene∣rall Zanne to his great greese was enforced to permit it.

The Christian fleet then departing from Castell-rosso, and comming all of [ 20] * 1.1582 them to Scarpanto into the Hauen Tristano, Doria on a sodaine took his leaue di∣recting his course to wards Puglia, and from thence into Sicily, his only care be∣ing to retire safely into his Contrey.

Colonna and Zanne being desirous to exploit some worthy enterprize, remai∣ned still together. But hauing intelligence that Piali, with a great number of well armed Gallies was come from Cyprus to ouertake them, and finding themselues to weake for resistance, they weighed ankors and sailed into Candy to the Hauen of Canea, not without danger of being assailed by the Turkish fleet, which hauing notice of the Christians departure sailed speedily to the Ile of Stamp alia: and Pi∣ali determining to goe to Candy, i•…•… hope to find some assured booties on those [ 30] Seas, could not execute his proiect by reason of stormes and foule weather, wherevppon he returned back, and went into the Archipellago: where hee en∣tered the Hauen o•…•… Calegiera making a shew as if hee would winter there, but on a suddaine changing his mind, hee went with his whole fleet vnto Constan∣tinople.

At the same time certaine Townes of Albania which were subiect to the Turke did rise against them, and being desirous to shake off their slauish yoak, they sent to request the Venetian Magistrates their nearest neighbors, to send them sup∣plies of men and armes a suring them that at the first sight of their Euseignes∣they would speedily come vnto them and become their subiects, and for a sure te∣stimony [ 40] thereof, they offered to giue them their children in hostage: which re∣quest of theirs, though it could not bee granted, as befitted their need and desire, great numbers neuerthelesse of inhabitants of the black Mountaine, and neere to* 1.1583 Boyan, called at this day the countrey of Drina, and other places belonging to the Marcouichians, did submit themselues to the Venetians, so that the Gouernors of Antiuari, Dulcigna, and Budua, did in the name of the Venetian Common∣wealth, receiue the oath of allegiance of more then an hundred townes and vil∣lages. The Christians of Zara were in armes, not so much in hope to make any new conquest, as to repulse the enemies, and to free the countrey from their continuall incursions: But there was no memorable matter done, in regard both [ 50] parties were apter to robbe and spoile then to fight.

In the meane time, the renewing of the league was treated at Rome, whither so soone as ample commissions were brought from Spayne and Venice to their Agents and Ambassadors for the conclusion therof, the Pope hauing called them

before him beganne to exhort them all to enter into league against the common enemy, telling them that the cause was common, (although that in respect of present losse it did more neerely concerne the Venetians), in regard the quarrel was betwixt Christians and Infidells, and that if his owne presence should be ne∣cessary,* 1.1584 his age should not hinder him from the iourney: That he would entreat, solicite, and admonish the Emperor and all other Christian Princes to enter into the league, for which he promised continually to pray vnto God that it might please him to grant it victory ouer his enemies.

The Ambassadors and Cardinalls seemed to be greatly mooued by this exhor∣tation, giuing his Holinesse many thanks for it, each of them promising to pro∣ceed [ 10] therein charitably, speedily and sincerely, as became a matter so important, holy, and desired by their Princes, as well in respect of their owne particular inte∣rest, as for the Common good of all Christendome: these words beeing often re-itterated by them did not produce effects conformable therevnto, but euery of them aimed at his owne particular profit, which beeing sundry, brought forth different opinions, breeding extreame and important delayes in the conclusion of that businesse, wherein diuers monethes were already vainely spent in idle and needlesse disputations.

The Pope had appointed fiue of the greatest and noblest Cardinalls of the* 1.1585 Colledge to bee present in the name of the Sea Apostolick at the treaty of the [ 20] league, to wit, Alexandrine his Nephew, Moron, Cesis, Grassi, and Aldobrandino, betwixt whom and the two Spanish Cardinalls, with the two Ambassadors of Spaine and Venice, the treaty hauing beene begunne to be decided, they present∣ly fell into sundry difficulties: for euery of them aiming to haue the league concluded to his owne particular profit, propounded very strange matters, as it often happeneth in such cases: But the Pope who proceeded therin very sincere∣ly, his ayme beeing only for the good of all Christendome. went about somtimes to moderate the excessiue demands of the Spaniards; protesting that if they did not presently conclude it, to reuoke all power and authority granted to their King to leuy money: Then turning his speech to the Venetians, he exhorted them to [ 30] harken to an agreement, though it were somwhat to their disaduantage, promi∣sing neuer to faile them in any aid or releefe possible.

The Cardinalls likewise that were his Holinesse Commissioners, speaking now to the one & then to the other, did all they might for the ending of the businesse, but especially Cardinall Moron, a man well experienced in the managing of most important affaires, and very eloquent, who allowing the propositions of the Ve∣netians Ambassador, as those which tended to the vniuersall good, went about to draw the Kings Ambassadors from their owne priuate interest, and to make them capable of truth which hauing done by a very eloquent remonstrance, and they* 1.1586 vnable to make any reasolable answer, fell to new excuse, saying that they would [ 40] write thereof into Spayne and expect a more particular and expresse com∣mission from their King.

The Spaniards added to the former difficulties which they had propounded, That the Venetians should be bound on paine of Ecclesiasticall Censures to ob∣serue in euery poynt that which should be resolued on in the league, as though they had suspected the Venetians loyalty, which had like to haue broken off the* 1.1587 whole businesse: They did moreouer striue about a General to command the Ar∣my, the Spaniards arrogantly crauing not onely to appoint a Generall (which was freely granted) but a Lieftenant, who in his absence should haue the same [ 50] authority in the Army, there-by wholly distrusting the Venetians, which sus∣pition still encreasing, did much coole the treaty of the league, which was be∣gunne with such earnest heate.

The Senate being highly displeased there with did expresly send a new Ambassa∣dor to Rome to acquaint the Pope with their earnest desire to see the league con∣cluded,

together with their firme resolution to continew the warre. Giouan Soran∣ce was deputed to this end, who comming to Rome, and finding the same diffi∣culties, his arriuall and speed could doe no greater good, so as to all mens greefe time was vnprofitably spent, which rather craued the execution of matters alrea∣dy resolued, then consultation about new.

The league was at the same time propounded in the Emperors Court, where it had no better successe for the Emperor vnder sundry coullors hauing spent* 1.1588 many monethes before he would giue any certaine resolution, beeing still desi∣rous to gaine time did in the end declare, That hauing Truce with Selim for eight yeare s, three of which were hardly expired it would be against his honor not to [ 10] keepe his word; and though he were desirous to doe otherwise, yet he could not without the consent of the Princes and Estates of the Empire, neither did hee in∣tend to doe it without the aduise and Councell of his owne particular States of Austria, wherevppon he craued time to thinke thereof, and to see the resolution of others, the which peraduenture by reason of the accident of Nicotia, might alter, and that hee would not consult on a matter of so great importance, but maturely and at leisure: By this answere it was easily perceiued, that hee had noe great inclination to intangle himselfe in that warre: the like did the other Princes and Common-wealthes of Germany. For the Emperor in the diet of Spyreha∣uing propounded to call another assembly to consult particularly on matters be∣longing [ 20] to the league, answer was made, that when his maiesty had beene mo∣lested by the Turke they had not suffered him to want any aid or succour, but that then they would not but vppon vrgent necessity fall againe into so dangerous and difficult a warre.

The Senate hauing notice of the Emperors resolution and perceiuing that it was to no purpose any longer to entertaine an Ambassador there, called him home, the like they did to Antonio Tepulo appointed for the same purpose to goe into Poland, who so soone as they vnderstood the Emperours resolution they sent back for when he was halfe way on his iourney being assured that al∣though the Polanders were a warlike nation and enemie to the Turke, yet they [ 30] would not take armes vnlesse all Germany did the like. Such end had the negoti∣ation of the league for that yeare.

Now to returne to the fleet, the Venetian Generall came to the hauen of Ca∣nia as hath beene said, as well in regard he was to neere his enemies & farre from* 1.1589 his freinds, as for theseason of the yeare vnfit for marine actions, thinking it folly then to goe to releeue Famagosta, whither for that time hee only re∣solued to send sixteene hundred footmen in three shippes, with twelue Gallies for their conuoy, vpon intelligence he had receiued how that eight Turkish Gal∣lies lay at ankor not farre from thence, to keep all releefe from it. The Prouidator Venieri made intreaty that for more assurance, •…•…ee should send thither as many [ 40] more shippes and soldiers, seeing that in the defense of that only Citty, the whole hope of the conseruation, or rather recouery of that Kingdome consisted;* 1.1590 which beeing not effected by reason of sundry impediments, Venicri in regard thereof, or rather in regard of the indisposition of his person, remained in Candy.

The Marquis Rangon Palauicin was chosen to command those new sup∣plies, but absolutely refusing to goe thither, said, That hee came to goe vnto Famagosta, if that Baillone were not there, or else vnto Nicotia, but the one beeing lost and Baillone remaining in Famagosta, hee was quit of his promise•…•… but this excuse seeming vnworthy for so great a soldier, es∣petially* 1.1591 [ 50] at such a time, hee lost his former reputation and shortly after his life in conceipt there of Lodouieo Martinenga Captaine of the men at Armes and then Gouernour of Cania, was elected in his stead Captaine Generall of those sup∣plies, who freely accepted that charge.

This beeing done, the Generall thought it fitte, for the ease of the Island to depart thence, and leauing Qutrini in Candy, with the Galleys of the Island, and three great Galleys, hee sayled with the rest of the fleete to Corsou, bee∣ing by the way by a terrible tempest driuen into the Hauen Vatica. There hee wayted for the Senates commandement to know what hee should doe, eyther to stay there, or else (as himselfe aduised) to passe on farther into Dalmatia, there to t•…•…imme his Galleys, and furnish the fleete, with many things which it wanted.

Colonna preparing for his departure to Italy, was by reason of foule weather enforced to carry a whole moneth in the Hauen of Casopa, from whence tired with long stay, hee set sayle, and in his iourney incountred many misfortunes. [ 10] For his owne Admirall Galley strucken with lightning, was in an instant burnt,* 1.1592 himselfe hardly escaping into the Galley of Francisco Troni, the which not long after beeing by the same tempest driuen on sho are, was there beaten in peeces: but the weather waxing faire, hee arriued at Zara, hauing escaped two won∣derfull and notable dangers: from whence hee wrote to the Senate, acquain∣ting it with that late accident; then hee directed his course towards An∣cona, and from thence rode poste to Rome, to yeeld an account to the Pope of his iourney.

The Generall Zanne within a while after fell sick, as well by reason of the great trauailes hee had sustained, as with greefe of minde: Wherevpon hee besought [ 20] * 1.1593 the Senate to giue him leaue to come home to prouide for his health, which bee∣ing granted, Sebastiano Veniere was chosen in his steed, who remained in Can∣die; hee was speedily commanded to sayle from thence with two Galleys to Corsou to take charge of the fleete, the which by the Senates Decree was to Winter there, and to bee furnished with all necessaries. And the Senate fea∣ring least Venieri should bee gone to Cyprus before hee could receiue his Commission, it determined to create a Prouidator Generall at Sea, who in Venieri his absence, should haue as ample authority as the Generall, and when Venieri should bee in the Army, to hold the chiefe place next him. Augustino [ 30] Barbarico, a man of singular wisedome and integrity of life, was by a generall consent chosen, on whom it seemed the Common-wealth might safely relye and build vpon.

In this manner, and with such successe, ended the first yeare of this warre, begunne with greater resolution then successe. Now the vnhappy losse of Ni∣cosia, with other euents, cleane contrary to all mens hopes, greatly perplexed the Senate: so as vpon sundry occasions, it was much distracted. For on the one side, the earnest desire to recouer their reputation, and to bee reuenged for iniuries receiued, did prouoke them to renue the warre in fiercer manner then before, and to make new proofe of their fortune and valour: but on the [ 40] other side, considering their enemies power, and the vncertainty of other Prin∣ces ayde, who were all addicted to their owne particular interests; they were transported with other thoughts, and some-times changed to accept some ho∣norable conditions of agreement, from which they knew by intelligence from their Bayly, that the Turkes would not much starte: and in regarde they still held the Citty of Famagosta, the report which was spred abroad euery where of the league, and of the Confederates great forces, together with the vncer∣taine successe of that warre, did put them in good hope and comfort, the more easily to obtaine peace and quietnesse, and to reduce their affaires to their former State: [ 50]

Besides, the great difficulties which hindered the conclusion of the league, the bad presage and ill successe of so vnfortunate and vnluckie a beginning of warre, and the confluence of so many aduersities, did take

away from the mindes of the most generous, all hope of any future successe.

The Senators beeing thus irresolute a very fit occasion was offered them with their honors to negotiate a Peace. For the Bascha Mahomet still desiring to com∣pose this warre in friendly manner, was willing to renew the motion of peace, the successe of that warre in no sort liking him, for if, it should prooue vnfortu∣nate it would encrease the danger of their Empire, if prosperous the authority & reputation of his enemy Mustapha.

Mahomet then beeing moooued by these reasons did oftentimes discourse with* 1.1594 the Venetian Baily concerning the treaty of peace which was broken off, going about to draw from him whether he had any commission to deale therein: at the [ 10] last taking occasion through the ordinary complaints made at the great Lords Port by the freinds and kinsfolkes of those Turkes that were imprisoned at Ve∣nice, or whose goods had beene seazed there at the beginning of the warre he be∣gan to deale with the Baily to vse means to the Senate that the Ottomans subiects so imprisoned might bee set at liberty, and their goods restored to them, saying, That it was against all equity, the Venetian Marchants liuing at liberty and en∣ioying their goods ouer the whole Ottoman Empire, the subiects of the Turke should bee dispoiled of their goods, and kept in miserable bondage and captiuity.

The Bascha in speaking heer of told him that his Lord was vexed thereat, and [ 20] that hee did not only wish him to write to Venice, but to send an expresse messen∣ger thither, to treat of that businesse more effectually. Ibraim vsed the like speech to the Baily, wishing him to incite the Senate to send a messenger of purpose to Constantinople, to the end that vnder coulour of this treaty concerning Marchandize, some meanes of a Generall Agreement might bee pro∣pounded.

The Baily vppon this assurance, and by the Baschas permission dispatcht his owne steward with one of the Dragomans to carry letters to Venice, which the Bascheas selfe had dictated to him concerning the affaires of Marchants, ac∣quainting them afterwards more particularly what hee had done, and with the [ 30] Baschas intention▪

Grassinan a French-man departed at the same time from Constantinople, ha∣uing beene Agent for the most Christian King there; who arriuing at Venice, told the Senate that the Bascha had vsed diuers speeches to him concerning the treaty of peace, and that he brought letters from the great Lord and the Bascha to his King to that end, knowing very well that they would not take it in bad part that the most Christian King, as friend to both sides, should mediate such an agreement.

Although the Senators did sum what suspect these propositions, fearing, that they were rather made to delay the preparations for warre, then to lay downe [ 40] Armes, and enter into some honorable accord; Neuer-the lesse the sundry accidents of those times did much perswade to harken to those Treaties, cheef∣ly for that at the conclusion of the league a new difficulty arose about the time when it should beginne. For the Spaniards, would haue let slippe all that cheefe part of the Summer, and not haue had it to bee mentioned in the capitulations therein contained, and that it should not bee in force till the yeare* 1.1595 following.

The Venetians on the contrary fearing that they should not bee able to re∣pulse the first attempts of that mighty Army, which the Turkes were said to haue prepared, and which was ready to march, had very earnestly written to the Pope, [ 50] that hee by his authority would remooue that difficulty, giuing him to vnder∣stand* 1.1596 how that by his Councell they had embraced warre, dismissed the Chiaus from Venice, and contemned all other means of agreement propounded

oftentimes by their Bayly: that they had likewise by his aduise and councell, so long wayted for the Spanish Galleys, as in the end, their ayde was more in name then in effect: and yet they had euer shewed them-selues ready to con∣clude a league sutable to his intention, and to the present need of all Christen∣dome. But all these increaties and pursutes did not produce such effects as the time required: For the Pope beeing of him-selfe well disposed, and wholy in∣clining to the generall good, knowing that the Venetians were agreeable to his will, confessed that their request was iust and honest, exhorted them to continue stedfast, and not to giue place to these first accidents of warre. And yet, hi•…•… Holynesse beeing ouer-credulous, and suffering himselfe to bee carryed [ 10] away by those, who for their owne particular interest fauoured the cause of the Spaniards, was cyther remisse, or did not constantly with his authority with∣stand such impediments, as were perceiued eyther to weaken the league, or delay the conclusion thereof.

The Venetians were likewise much greeued to see the Pope at that time en∣tangled* 1.1597 in other affaires: for the Emperors Ambassadors protested, that vn∣lesse hee did reuoke and disanull the new title which hee had bestowed on the Duke of Florence, their Maister should bee enforced to maintaine his owne dig∣nity, with that of the Empire, by all meanes possible: The Pope though by Na∣ture timerous, would not for all that retract that which hee knew hee might [ 20] doe, and was well done, but made preparation by temporall armes to defend his owne authoritie, and that of the Sea Apostolick: Therefore hee speedily leuyed forces, prouided armes, money, and all other necessaries for warre, causing Proclamation to bee made in all places vnder the Churches iurisdicti∣on (to the particular hurt of the Venetians) that it should not bee lawfull for any, without exception, to leuy Souldiers forth of that State; and therevpon hee imprisoned Pompeo de Castello, and Giouan Aldobrandino, who beeing Pentioners to the Venetians, had in their name enrolled footmen in the Churches territo∣ries, whereby all men thought that Italy would fall into a dangerous warre. This made the Senate resolue to send the Secretary Formenti to Rome, to ap∣pease [ 30] this new stirre: but his departure was delayed, and Commission sent to their Ambassadors there, to make the same request to the Pope, and to put him in minde of the miseries of the time, the greatnesse of the present dangers which threatned Christendome, together with the remedy (if there were any) alone residing in him. Wherevnto though the Pope gaue a willing care, hee neuerthelesse excused himselfe by reason of his owne necessity, and did still pursue his priuate deseignes, leauing the euents of the common warre very doubtfull.

These troubles caused the Venetians to welcome the arriuall of these men from Constantinople, and likewise vppon so faire an occasion carefully to [ 40] * 1.1598 thinke on the treaty of peace, because they dayly saw their hopes more and more to decline, and the cause to cease for which they had first neglected it. They determined then to hearken to the treaty of peace, and so much the more willingly as it was offered from the Turkes: neuerthelesse, because they would not seeme too greedy of it, nor inuite the Turkes thereby to infringe it vppon* 1.1599 euery trifle, without motioning peace at that time, they gaue Commission to Giacomo Ragasson, a man well experienced in such businesses, to goe to Con∣stantinople, to treate of the enlargement of prisoners, and restitution of Mar∣chants goods taken on eyther side: and besides, the Councell of Tenne gaue him another secret Commission to giue to the Bayly, which in effect was, that if [ 50] afterwards the Turkes did motion peace, hee likewise should seeme to desire it, and enter into farther discourse thereof, if he should perceiue that it might take effect on reasonable & honorable conditions for the Common-wealth, namely

of recouering the Realme of Cyprus, in paying some great tribute to the Turke for it, or else that they might still keepe the Cirty of Famagosta, or by quitting it to the great Lord, to haue some other State else-where in counter-change, and also for the restoring of their ancient confines of Albania and Dalmatia. They did impart as much to Ragasson, and gaue him power to speake thereof, if the Turke, who had first craued to haue one sent thither of purpose (for the Bayly was imprisoned) if for any other respects they should refuse to treate with him.

Ragasson his departure from Veniee to Constantinople, was presently diuul∣ged in the Courts of Princes, but they assured them (as indeed it was so) that [ 10] they had sent him for the dispatch of businesse belonging to particular mar∣chants, without any other commission at all: yet euery man suspected that hee had some other secret Commission to treate of peace, the which they were the rather induced to beleeue, because that the Venetians had occasion thereby to seeke to assure their affaires, hauing had but an vnfortunate beginning in their warre, perceiuing their hopes dayly to vanish.

The Pope hauing a share in this suspition, and beginning to shake off his feare* 1.1600 of the Emperors armes, did hotly reuiue the Treaty of the League, beeing there∣vnto prouoked by the Spaniards, and determined to send Marc-Antonio Colon∣na to Venice, who beeing wise and pollitick, and very gratious with the Veneti∣ans, [ 20] might with his speech interrupt the practises of peace, and by granting them somewhat, which had beene denied them before, to induce them to consent to the speedy conclusion of the league.

Colonna beeing come to Venice, and often-times brought into the Senate, did vse all good meanes and offers, to perswade them to embrace the league, labou∣ring to let them see how profitable it was for the Common-wealth, and how that his desire to serue at once the Pope his naturall Prince, the Catholick King, vnto whome hee had vowed and dedicated his seruice, and them selues likewise, vnto whom, in respect of the trust they had reposed in him, hee was* 1.1601 no lesse bound then to any other whatsoeuer, did make him more earnest in that businesse, beeing not able to bridle his loue, nor conceale that which [ 30] reason commanded him to vtter, and hauing by a long Oration particularly acquainted them with the preparations of the League, hee did earnestly entreate them to embrace it.

Colonnas authority and cloquence was of force to haue perswaded the grea∣test part of the Senate to this confederacie, but the importance of the busi∣nesse, the experience of the former yeares successe, the quality of the gene∣rall propositions, and they vncertaine, and the hope that the Treaty of peace might haue more prosperous successe, held the Senators in suspence: where∣vppon,* 1.1602 by a Decree of Senate, Colonna was answered in generall termes, how [ 40] that their actions might testifie their disposition towards the league.

At the last, time pressing them to make a speedy resolution, and Colonna ha∣uing receiued new instructions from Rome, whereby all matters were gran∣ted them, concerning their forces, time when to employ them, and likewise for the increase of the number of their Galleys for the first yeare; the Pope did be∣sides particularly promise to permit them for fiue yeares space to leuy three tenths vpon the Clergie of their State: these things beeing considered by the Senate on the one side, and the practises of peace on the other, by the commissi∣ons giuen to the Bayly and Ragasson, made the Senators very doubtfull, Peace and Warre beeing at their owne choyce and liking: wherevpon the Senators [ 50] were of contrary opinions concerning the continuation eyther of the one or other, not growing to any certaine resolution. Especially two of the most principall and eminent in the gouernment of the Republique, dissented farre

in opinion; the first (which was Paulo Tepulo, a man very famous, and much* 1.1603 practised in the gouernment o•…•… the Common-wealth,) said, That without re∣lying on Mahomets goodly propositions, which rather tended to deceiue and •…•…ull them a sleepe, then benefit them, they ought without longer delay, to embrace the league, in regarde the conclusion there of was certaine, and the e∣uents* 1.1604 of the Treatie of Peace most vncertaine. Andréa Badoario, a man of equall authority, was of a contrary opinion, saying, That seeing they had mo∣tioned peace, and had to those ends giuen ample Commissions and instructions, they could doe no lesse then expect an answer, and not make such hast, or rather precipitate themselues into the conclusion cleane contrary. Both of them were attentiuely heard, and their reasons did in such sort mooue the Senators, as they [ 10] still continued irresolute. But at last the most part inclining to the conclusion of the league, the better to raze out that note of Infamy, wherewith the former* 1.1605 vnhappy euents of warre had blotted them, they all on a suddaine altered their opinions, and resolued to send ample power and authoritie to their Ambassadors at Rome, in their name to conclude the league, and presently gaue Colonna a plea∣sing answer, who suddainly returned to Rome, where the Pope hauing notice of their resolution, called the Ambassadors of the Catholick King and Venetians* 1.1606 into the Consistory, where causing the Datary to read the Articles, agreed vpon betwixt them, hee was the first that swore (laying his hand vppon his brest) strictly to obserue them: The Cardinall Pacheco likewise swore in the behalfe of [ 20] the Catholick King (Granuell beeing gone to Naples) the Ambassador of the same King did the like, and those of the Venetian Common-wealth in their Prin∣ces name swore on the Euangelists.

Then the Pope commanded, that the next day after diuine seruice was sol∣lemnly celebrated, and the Procession ended in Saint Peters Church, it should bee published, not withstanding that the Venetian Ambassadors were of opinion to deferre the publication thereof, till the Emperor were acquainted therewith, that his intention mightbeeknowne.

The particuler Articles of the league were these: Betwixt Pope Pius Quin∣tus, [ 30] * 1.1607 prom sing for the Sea Apostolick and his successors, with the consent of the whole Colledge of Cardinalls, Philip the Catholick King, and the Duke and Senate of Venice, aleague and perpetuall confederacie hath beene made, to abate and ouer-throw the Turkes power, who of late haue with a mighty Ar∣mie, enuaded the Realme of Cyprus, a countrey very commodious for the con∣quest of the Holy land. That the Confederates forces shall consist of two hundred light Galleys, one hundred ships of warre, fifty thousand footmen, Ita∣lians, Spaniards and Almaines, foure thousand fiue hundred horse, with Artillery and Munition proportionable to such forces: all which shall bee imployed, as well for defence of the Confederates states, as to assaile the enemies, and particu∣larly [ 40] for the enterprises of Argier, Tunis, and Tripoli: That all these forces shall bee vnited (in the moneth of May next ensuing, or at the beginning of Aprill) at Ottranto, to passe into the Leuant against the enemies, as time, and the councell of Captaines shall thinke fit. That these forces neuerthelesse may bee changed, by increasing or diminishing the prouisions for warre, as necessity and the quality of the enterprise shall require: wherevpon a yeerely meeting shall bee at Rome in Autumne, there to consult what is best to bee done. And if it shall there bee concluded, not to attempt any thing that yeare in common, yet it might bee lawfull for euery of the confederates to execute their particular enterprises, and especially for the King of Spaine, to enterprise those of Argier, [ 50] Tunis, and Tripoli, in which, so that there bee no mighty Turkish Army abroad, the Venetians shall bee bound to ayde the King with fifty Galleys for that purpose.

That the King likewise shall bee bound to ayde the Venetians, whensoeuer they

will enterprize any thing in their Gulph against the common enemy, on this con∣dition neuerthelesse, if he which shall craue this aide, haue far greater forces ready. That all the Confederates shall bee reciprocally obliged to defend the States of any one of them whom the Turkes shall enuade, and in particular the Citties and other places belonging to the Church.

That for the expence of warre, the Catholick King shall pay the one halfe; and the other moyery beeing deuided into three parts, the Venetians shall pay two, and the Pope the third: they shall bee bound to giue the Pope twelue Gal∣leys ready rig'd, and munitioned, which his Holynesse shall man for the seruice of the league. That generally each of the Confederates shall bee bound to con∣tribute [ 10] for the common necessity, whatsoeuer hee shall aboundantly haue, and others want, and afterwards shall haue it allowed in their accounts. That the store-houses for Corne shall bee euery where open for the common good, and that graine may bee taken forth of commodious places, so that hee from whom it is taken, haue first made his owne prouision. That at Councels and consultati∣ons the Commanders of the three Confederate Princes shall bee present, and what the most of them resolue on, shall bee concluded: Neuerthelesse, the execu∣tion of matters determined, shall remaine to the Generall of the Army (who* 1.1608 was presently named) to wit, Don Iohn de Austria, and in his absence Marc-Anto∣nio Colonna with the same authority, though at the same time, hee retaine the [ 20] title and ranke of the Churches Generall. A place was reserued for Maximilian of Austria the elect Emperor, the most Christian King, and the King of Portugall, to enter into this confederacie, when they should thinke it fitte, and to all other Christian Princes likewise, that had a desire to enter into it. There was no parti∣cular mention made of places which should bee conquered, for that was referred to bee disposed off in the same manner, as in the league of the yeare 1537. where∣in was expresly mentioned, If any strife should arise betwixt the Confederates, the Pope as Vmpier and Iudge should decide it, without any breaking off, or preiudice to the confederacie, or stoppe to the execution of matters by it established.

These Articles (as hath beene said) beeing sworne to and signed by the Am∣bassadors, [ 30] were within foure moneths after, as the same Princes had decreed, read, and ratified a new. But because the Confederates were not tyed to obserue all* 1.1609 that is aboue mentioned, till the yeare following, it was agreed vpon in another writing a part, wherein the aboue mentioned matters were not particularly speci∣fied, that the same yeare in the moneth of May, foure score Galleys, and twenty ships of warre, should meete at Ottranto to ioyne with the Venetian fleete, not comprehending in that number those of the Pope, Duke of Sauoy, and Knights of Malra.

During these treaties of peace and league, the Venetians with a generall con∣sent, [ 40] made speedy prouisions for warre: they had not forgotten the affaires of Cyprus, and especially the conseruation of Famagosta, on which depended the* 1.1610 hope of all fortunate successe. Marc. Antonio Quirini beeing chosen for this pur∣pose, departed from Candy with foure ships to carry supplies thither, for whose conuoy twelue galleys were appointed. Hee beeing come neere to Famagosta, caused his ships to saile some-what before in the enemies view which were in Constantia, himselfe keeping toward the land: So soone as the enemies descryed these shippes, they sent foorth seauen Galleys to inuest them, which beeing per∣ceiued by Quirini, hee suddainly aduanced with his Galleys, to get betwixt them and home.

But the Turkes, hauing discouered the Venetians galleis, and altering their pur∣pose [ 50] * 1.1611 from offending others to saue themselues, did speedily make to the shoare from whence they came, so that they had time by help of those of the campe, who in great troops came to their aid, to escape to land, & forsaking their galleis, some

of them were sunke by Quirinis ordnance, who perceiuing some signes of a future tempest gaue speedy commandement that the ships should bee •…•…owed into the Hauen, that he might safely land his supplies consisting of sixteene hundred foot, with great store of munition & victuals, which did much incourage those of the city, who infinitely commended his care and dilligence; and whilest hee remay∣ned there, hee tooke a ship of the enemies and some other smaller vessels laden* 1.1612 with munitions and victuals which were going to the Turkish army, and hauing intelligence that the Turkes had builded certaine fortes at the Rocke of Gambella, he sailed thither with his Gallies, and on a sodaine razed them.

These things beeing fortunately performed, Quirini supposing his longer stay there to bee to small purpose did on the sixteenth day of February 1571. arriue [ 10] with his Gallies in Candy. The Senate beeing very carefull to prouide for Fa∣magosta,* 1.1613 sent two other ships thither with eight hundred footmen and great store of munition, vnder the command of Honoreo Scoto, with letters to the inhabitants full of hearty affection, highly commending their constant loyalty, intreating them still to persist in their owne defence and by no meanes to rely vpon the word or promise of those Barbarous infidels: The like letters in effect were writ∣ten to Baillone, wherein his valour was much commended, as worthy of his An∣cestors, and the loue which himselfe and predecessors had euer borne to the Com∣mon-wealth, promising highly to recompence him.

When these last supplies arriued at Famagosta, they made vp the whole num∣ber [ 20] * 1.1614 of foure thousand Italian footmen, eight hundred of the Islanders which are termed Legionaries, and three thousand Citizens and country people, with two hundred Albaneses.

At the same time the rebellion of the Albaneses against the Turkes did stil con∣tinue,* 1.1615 diuers of the countries of Ducagina, Pedana, Ematia and Sadrina, comming dayly to make sundry offers to the Agents of the Common-wealth, wherevpon, the Prouidator Celsi was commanded to saile to Catharra with tenne Gallies, but Celsi falling sicke by the way, Nicolo Suriano, who was Lieutenant of the Gulphe, was commanded to take that charge vpon him, and with foure Gallies to enter in∣to [ 30] the Riuer Boyan to backe the rebellion of that people, and carefully to obserue whether he could with good successe make any attempt vpon Durazzo, Scatar, or Alexia which the chiefe of the Albaneses had propounded. Suriano hauing con∣tinued certaine daies in those confines, perceiued very well that the deeds were not answerable to their words, and that it was in vaine to make any attempt vp∣on the enemies territories without suffitient forces for that purpose: the Senate neuerthelesse beeing vnwilling to omit any thing which it knew might auaile the Common wealth, chose Giacomo Malatesta for Gouernor Generall in Alba∣nia, who comming to Catharra was desirous to make incursions into the ene∣mies country, where hauing taken a great booty, and heedlesly returning [ 40] homewards through a valley, hee was assailed by the enemies, and beeing woun∣ded in the thigh, and beaten from his horse was taken prisoner and carried to Rissana.

In regard of the great expences which the Venetians were to furnish, which would monthly amount to three hundred thousand Ducats, the Senate sought* 1.1616 by all meanes to raise money; wherevpon it againe encreased the number of the Procurators of Saint Marke, they likewise sold the pastures and voide grounds, and the pawnes and pledges of La Zecca were opened vpon sundry conditions. Prince Moceniga in that and all other matters shewed himselfe very carefull and vigilant to make speedy provisions of all necessaries; and being present on a time [ 50] in the great councell, whither all Gentlemen that haue voyces in the creation of Magistrates doe vsually come, he made a briefe but important speech, exhorting all of them to bee willing to releeue their deerest country in that time of need and warre, either with money, aduise, or any other thing which it might want,

euery man according to his power and meanes, saying that they could neuer doe it in a time more conuenient, and thereby should not onely preserue their wealth, but their honor, children and liues, all which would be exposed to great danger i•…•… the insolent enemy should prooue victorious.

His words being pronounced with much earnestnesse did greatly mooue those of the assembly, and encouraged them boldly to continue that warre, with hope of better successe, wherevpon, whatsoeuer was requisite for the furnishing of the Nauy, or for prouision of victuals, and money, which is the strongest sinew of warre, was presently determined and concluded.

Whilest the Venetians were thus busied in their preparations, the Turkes on [ 10] the other side raised new forces to pursue the course of their victory. Selim had receiued such content for the taking of Nicotia, the newes whereof was brought to him by Mustaphas sonne, together with many ri•…•…ch presents, as hee was desirous all other things laied aside to intend onely the ending of that enter∣prize, notwithstanding the great report which was made of the Christian fleet, the which after the conquest of Cyprus he promised to him selfe to defeate, and then presently to become Lord of all the Islands belonging to the Venetians, most commodious (as he said) to open a passage to the city of Rome, chiefe of the Romaine Empire and belonging to him as to the greatest Emperor, and of a long time promised by their Prophets to the Ottoman family. [ 20]

Selim ruminating on these vaine and idle thoughts commanded his fleete, that so soone as Cyprus should be furnished with suffi•…•…ient supplies, then to fight with that of the Christians, and afterwards pursue other enterprises as occasion should be offered. And according to his owne proiects hee sent twenty Gallies from Constantinople vnder the command of Caiacelebey, who by the way meeting with the Gallies of Chios and Rhodes, sailed altogether towards Cyprus, to keepe out all releefe from Famagosta. After his departure from Constantinople thirty other Gallies came to him, and beeing come to Finica to leauy souldiers, he went from thence into Cypras, where making some aboade, hee sent his Gal∣lies in the meane time to Tripoli, to take in new supplies and munitions: then [ 30] his Nauy being furnished with all necessaries he left Cyprus, leauing Ar•…•…mat there with twenty Gallies, tenne Mohannes or flat bottomed boates to transport horse, fiue ships, with many other vessels for the guard of the Island, himselfe ta∣king foure and fitry Gallies with him, and went to meet Portau, ne•…•…ly made a Basha in Pialis stead, who beeing come from Constantinople, and by the way ioyning the Gallies of Naples in Romagnia and Miteline with his forces, was with an hundred Gallies at •…•…astel rosso, the Rendezuous of the whole fleet, whi∣ther within a while after Vluzz•…•…li came from Argiers with twenty of his owne Gallies, and diuers other vessels belonging to Pirates, and not long after, Hassan sonne to Barbarossa came thither likewise with twenty Gallies. [ 40]

The whole Turkish fleet beeing in this sort vnited, to the number of two hun∣dred* 1.1617 and fifty saile, went directly to the Isle of Candy and entred into the Hauen of Suda, and sayling afterwards towards Cania, it landed great troupes of soul∣diers neere to the city, who presently falling to booty, did put al to fire and sword. Against these the Prouidator of Cania sent great numbers of souldiers of the cit∣ties Garrison with diuers of Quirtni's Gallies which were then in the Hauen, who enforced the enemies to retire, and our men beeing presently backt by three hun∣dred* 1.1618 Corsicans conducted by Colonel Iustinian, the enemies were put to rout and with great slaughter beaten to their Gallies, not daring to assault the castle. The enemies fleet departing from Candy, where it had done infinite harme, sai∣led [ 50] to Ceriga, where it did the like, and from thence went to Iunca, where hauing* 1.1619 trimmed their Gallies, they made incursions into the Isles of Zant and Cephalo∣nia, and the inhabitants being retired into the fortes, all the villages and country houses were burned, and the whole country wasted.

The Turke beeing not satisfied with setting forth a fleet, had likewise raised a land army, vnder the command of Achmat Basha, determining to enuade the Venetians both by sea and land, in regard the treaty of peace was wholly broken off, and no hope of agreement left. For so soone as Ragasson came to Con∣stantinople, the Turkes hoping by accord to obtaine that which they could hard∣ly get by armes, he was together with the Baily brought before Mahomet the Visier Basha, who beganne highly to extoll the power of the Ottoman Empire, and to relate the great Lords deseignes against the States of the Venetian Com∣mon-wealth, who resolued to enuade them by sea and land; That Selims intent was to propound peace on very hard conditions, neuerthelesse hee would find [ 10] * 1.1620 meanes to moderate that great seuerity, prouided likewise that they would con∣sent to what hee should tell them, which in effect was, that the Baily should per∣swade the Senate freely to surrender to Zelim the entire possession of Cyprus, as a State iustly belonging to the Ottoman Empire.

The Baily perceiuing thereby that the treaty of peace could not bee con∣tinued to the honour of the Common-wealth, aduised Ragasson to leaue Con∣stantinople (which hee did) the other businesse concerning merchants re∣mayning likewise imperfect, which once was concluded, but presently reuoked, by reason of some false reportes brought from Sy∣ria and Alexandria, so that Ragassons iourney [ 20] was altogether vaine.

The end of the ninth Booke of the sixth Decade.

The Contents of the tenth Booke of the [ 10] sixth Decade.

THE Spaniards absolutely tell the Pope and Venetians that they will not ioyne their forces till Don Iohns arri∣uall. The great progression of the Turkish fleet. The [ 20] league is concluded at Rome and published at Venice. The Turkes take Dulcigna and Antiuary. The Venetians great preparations so soone as they heard that the Turkes were come into their Gulphe. The enemies come before Mandrac∣chia, with their base retreat. The Pope soliciteth Christian Princes to en∣ter into the league. The arriuall of Don Iohn and the Spanish forces. The Turkish army before Famagosta. Marc-Antonio Bragadino Gouernor of Famagosta. The enemies at one time batter the city in fiue seuerall places. [ 30] The beseeged make a counter-battery. The Turkes giue many fierce assaults to the city. The cittizens by reason of extre•…•…me want are enforced to yeeld vpon composition. Mustapha his perfidious cruelty; His impiety against the dead. The vnion of the Christian fleete, with the number of the vessels. The Christian fleet resolueth to fight with the Turkes. The famous battaile of Lepanto, where the Turkish fleet is defeated and put to rout. The num∣ber of the dead on both sides, with the number of the enemies vessels that were taken. The great ioy at Venice for newes of the victory. Don Iohn retireth to Messina. The Venetians take the fort of Marguerites. The Christians enterprize vpon Saint Maur is bootles. And lastly Marc∣Antonio Colonna his magnificent entry at Rome.

The tenth Booke of the sixth Decade [ 10] of the History of Uenice.

THE Confederates nauall army which should haue met at Ot∣tranto in May, there to haue ioyned altogether, came not thi∣ther at the latter end of Iune, neither was there any tidings of it. The conclusion of the league hanging in suspence, and the Venetians fearing that they should not bee strong enough of themselues, to incounter and repulse the enemies fleete, which was reported to bee farre greater then those of the former yeere, deter∣mined [ 20] * 1.1621 to set forth threescore Gallies of the best in all the fleet at Candy, to em∣ploy them for the releefe of Cyprus, or other places as need should bee, to hin∣der the enemies nauigation vpon those seas, and to cut off the rereward of the Turkish Gallies which should lagge behind the fleet, and in a word to take hold on all occasions which time should offer. Such was the State of the Venetian fleet for that time, the greatest part whereof remayning at Corfou, did daily ex∣pect the arriuall of the Spanish Armada.

The Pope and Venetians made earnest request that the Gallies of Naples and Sicily which were ready might goe to Ottranto, but the Spaniards would not [ 30] heare of it, resoluing to tarry for Don Iohns arriuall. The Turkes on the other side hauing intelligence that the forces of the Christian Princes were not yet vnited, departing from Candy did boldly saile forwards, the great Lord ha∣uing commanded them to seeke out the Christian fleete and fight with it, and in the meane time to waste all places by the way belonging to the Venetian State. The Generall Venieri hauing intelligence of the enemies course and de∣seignes,* 1.1622 and knowing that nothing could hinder them from passing forward, re∣solued to saile with the fleet to Messina, fearing (as it was very likely) that if the enemies fleet should come neerer to Corfoù, his owne Gallies would bee expo∣sed to sundry perils and and dangers, and if the Turkes should come and lie be∣twixt [ 40] the Fana and the Merlieres, hee likewise feared that they would hinder the vniting of the Confederates forces.* 1.1623

Whilest these determinations were made abroad the league on the second day of Iuly was with great solemnity and concourse of people published at Venice, after the celebration of Masse in Saint Markes Church by Don Guzman de Silua Ambassador for the Catholike King, in the presence of the Duke, Senate, Prin∣ces Ambassadors, and great numbers of Prelats, who together with the whole Clergy going afterwards through the city in Precession, came into the great Market-place which was ritchly hung with tapistry and other costly ornaments, whither so soone as the Prince came to the vsuall place where proclamations are [ 50] made to the people, the league was by an Herald published with great silence, which being done, the ordnance were shot off, drummes beaten, and trumpets sounded to the great ioy and content of all the people.

The league being in this sort published, they hastened the preparations al∣ready begunne, and solicited other Princes to enter into it, that they might the better encrease their forces. Wherevpon the Pope determined for that pur∣pose to send his Nephew the Cardinall Alexandrine into Portugall, supposing* 1.1624 that the forces and territories of that King would bee fit to affoord aide and re∣putation to the league, hee beeing Lord of many armed vessels, and his coun∣tries of the Indies confying vpon the Turkish Empire: in respect whereof the Senate likewise resolued that Antonio Tepulo then Ambassadour in Spaine should to the same end goe to the King of Portugall to bee there in the name of the Common-wealth at such time as the Popes Legat should treat of that [ 10] businesse.

The Venetians, the league beeing thus concluded, were so bent to warre, vp∣on hope to encrease their forces by the assistance of other Princes, as they would not harken to any discourse of peace▪ for the most Christian King hauing dis∣patched the Bishop of Aix to Constantinople, chiefly to negociate some ac∣cord, and hee comming to Venice acquainted them with the zeale and affection of his King towards the good and proffit of the Common-wealth, togither with his Commission to procure peace betwixt the Turkes and them; The Senate thanked him, and without giuing farther eare to his propositions called in the* 1.1625 Confederates Ambassadours that they might heare his message; this they did [ 20] to take away all iealouzy and suspition, and to animate them to warlike prepara∣tions like themselues.

The Turkish fleet in the meane time came still forward into the Venetian Gulphe, none daring to oppose it: on the other side the Sangiacs of Scopo, Durazzo and Ducagina, taking fiue thousand men, tenne cannons and many o∣ther lesse peeces with them, came neere to Dulcigna, hauing enforced the coun∣try* 1.1626 people to quit the streight passages which they guarded, wherevpon the inhabitants resolued to abandon the city and to retire to Catharra: but Nicolo Suriana, and Sciarra Martinenga comming with newforces, did confirme and encourage them to defend their city, although it were not strong either by art [ 30] or nature.

The enemy beeing encamped before it, after that hee had made a battery and a reasonable breach, the Ianissaries prepared for the assault, wherevpon Martinenga beeing out of all hope to hold out long without sresh supplies did speedily send for the French men which hee had brought thither, with whom for a time they valliantly defended it: but the enemies fleer approach∣ing, and Suriana in that respect beeing with his Gallies enforced for to quit those seas, all the inhabitants and souldiers beeing affrighted, and wholly des∣payring to hold the towne any longer, craued a parley, the battery hau•…•…ng continued for the space of twelue daies, and the accord was made with the Ba∣sha [ 40] * 1.1627 to depart with their liues and goods, with promise to giue them foure ships, to transport those to Ragusa that were willing to depart, and good enter∣tainment to such as would still remaine there, and that the souldiers might de∣part with their armes and ensignes.

The city was deliuered to the Turkes, though that the conditions were afterwardes badlie obserued, because that since then, some contention either true or feigned arising therevpon betwixt Pertau and Achmat Bashas who were come to that seege, they tooke occasion to deale cruelly with those poore wretches, who relying on their word had submitted to them, for they caused all the inhabitants in a manner to bee imprisoned, and did put diuers val∣liant [ 50] Albanese souldiers to the sword, that were come thither to defend the city: onely they kept their word with the Gouernor, Martinenga, and some few other of the chiefest, who were safely conducted to Rag•…•…sa.

Dulcigna beeing taken, the enemies fleete sailed towards Antiuari, where the inhabitants were much daunted with their neighbours misfortune, though they feared not the fleete, the Citty beeing foure miles from sea. The Gouernor ha∣uing intelligence of the enemies approach, did without waiting for their com∣ming, send the Citties keyes to the Bascha by some of the p•…•…incipall townes∣men, in regarde whereof hee was afterwards by the Senate condemned to perpe∣tuall banishment.

In the meane time, newes beeing brought to Venice, how that the enemies with a mighty fleete were come into their Gulphe, the whole Citty was much terrified, especially when it vnderstood, how that in all places where they came, [ 10] they left terrible scarres behinde them, the Venetians presently began to fortifie all passages, and especially the Porte of Saint Nicholas on the shoare, opposite to which is a very strong Castle builded, and well stored with ordnance, the de∣fence where of was committed to Lodouico Grimani, with certaine foote compa∣nies, and furnished with expert Gunners: they afterwards gaue Vincento Mor•…•…∣sin, one of the cheefe Senators charge of all the Fortifications along the shore, with sixe other Gentlemen of the order of Senators to assist him, namely Daniele venieri, Marco Iustiniano, Ieronimo Contareni, Francesco Mith•…•…ele, Lorenzo Souran∣ze, and Andrea Bernardo.

Those men caused a mighty Iron chaine to bee drawne from the afore∣said [ 20] Castle to the opposite shore, the which embarred the whole Channell, and behinde it they placed three great Galleys, and a certaine number of light ones, which were well stored with Ordnance. All other passages were likewise assured: they did more-ouer place sundry corps du Guard in diuerse pla∣ces of the citty, and in a word omitted nothing which was necessary for the pre∣seruation and defence thereof.

But it was knowne within a while after, that all these speedie preparations were altogether vnnecessary: For Vluzzali, Admirall of that fleete, after* 1.1628 that hee had wasted, (as hath beene sayd) the Isles of Lisena, and Cursoles, went back againe to ioyne with the Basha, who with the residue of the fleete, [ 30] lay at the mouth of the Channell of Catharra, where making some aboade, hee summoned the Castle to yeeld, and yet made none attempt vppon it; be∣cause peraduenture hee was vnwilling to performe any great enterprise, or else feared the vnion of the Christian fleetes.

Wherevpon hee departed thence, and sailed to la Valona, where hauing re∣enforced his Armie with diuerse troopes, brought to him by the Sangiack of Bossina, and sent foorth certaine Galleys, truely to discouer the estate of the Confederate nauall Armie, hee bent his course towards Corfou; and com∣ming to Paxu, hee sent first to view Mandracchia, and the Galleys going vnto Butintro, the Captaines coasted vppe and downe the I•…•…land, and heedfully [ 40] obseruing the sytuation thereof, could not agree vppon that which they would haue done.

In the meane time, diuerse souldiers which were in the Fusts going on shore to get pillage, fell into an Ambuscado of certaine troopes of horse* 1.1629 belonging to the ga•…•…rison of the Citty vnder the commmand of Captaine George Mormori, by whom all the enemies were eyther •…•…laine or taken, and among others Cassan, surnamed Baffa, á Renegado of Candy, a man very fa∣mous, not so much for his experience in marine matters, as for his nota∣table crue•…•…ty.

In the end, the whole fleete drew neere to the Island, and yet as they passed [ 50] along many Cannon shot were bestowed among them, which did no great harme thorow the fault and small experience of the Gunners. And comming to Potama, great numbers of soldiers were landed, who assaulted the towne, our men who

had seazed on the passages of the mountaines beeing to weake to hinder their passage, Phillippo Rancone with foure hundred footmen garded the Towne, part of his forces were Greekes and the rest Italians, who perceiuing the enemies great numbers, beganne to retire towards the plaine, where finding other supplies sent* 1.1630 from the Castle, he made a stand, and caused the Turkes that followed him to doe the like:

But the day following, greater numbers beeing landed, together with sixe hundred horse which they had taken in at Butrinto, they gaue an assault to the Castle Saint Angelo, and finding it to be a farre difficulter enterprize then they had immagined, gaue it ouer: but being desirous before their departure to leaue some token of their barbarous cruelty behind them, they burnt many Country [ 10] houses, and diuers Churches, ruining the Villages and Vineyards neere to the Citty, and the third day after they departed from the Island.

The Venetians did with great greese endure all these miseries and calami∣ties, still trusting to the aid of the league, and yet they receiued not thereby the profit and commodity which they had hoped for, for which to their great losse they had altered their former deseignes, and in a manner engaged their for∣ces: because that a decree beeing made that the Gallies of Candy should saile to∣wards Messina, there to ioyne with those Confederates, they were doubtfull of the successe of Famagosta, hauing receiued no newes whether it had been relee∣ued [ 20] or not: and for that on the other side their Generall, by waiting for Don Iohns arriuall, was an idle Spectator of all those wronges and outrages which the enemies had done vnto them and yet durst not set fore-word to take reuenge.

Therefore they resolued to shew vnto the Pope, how that by his meanes they* 1.1631 had entred into that warre, and had refused all meanes of Agreement, therein to obey the authority of the Sea Apostolick, and not to seeme likewise to distrust o∣ther Christian Princes, that they for their partes had notwithstanding all expen∣ces and dangers prouided what soeuer was necessary for the vnion; and, they did not see that the Confederates effects were correspondent to their diligence and industry: so as that league which had beene made for the honour and glory [ 30] of Christendome, did more dishonour them, and in particular did great harme to their Common-wealth, by reason of the losse of Famagosta, which vndoub∣tedly would shortly ensue, except it were speedily releeued.

These complaints beeing propounded to the Pope who found them very iust and reasonable, he speedily dispatcht a Post to Don Iohn, writing by him to his Nephew the Cardinall Alexandrine, who was in Spayne, earnestly to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that businesse according to his former instructions.

The Legat Alexandrine was honorably entertained by the Catholick King, who in smooth termes accquainted them with his ernest desire therein to satisfie the Pope, hauing determined for that purpose, that Don Iohn with the Spanish* 1.1632 Gallies should goe and spend the winter in Sicily, thereby to bee readier to exe∣cute that which should bee concluded at Rome. And although hee had often by letters in former time exhorted the Emperor to enter into that vnion, hee would expressly neuer the lesse send Don Pedro Fassardo to him, to entreat him from him to condiscend therevnto

Hee beeing come to the Emperors Court found him very doubtfull: for hee* 1.1633 receiued many messages and letters from the Bascha of Buda who exhorted him to obserue the peace, promising him faire and Kingly neighborhood and freind∣ship: on the other side hee had Intelligence of the Turkes warlike preparations, who remaining till then at Scopia held all men in suspence to what place hee de∣termined to bend his course: in the end hee resolued to send the accustomed tri∣bute to Constantinople, beeing assured that it could in no sort hinder the

league, nor keepe him-selfe from entring into it, when time should serue, where∣as* 1.1634 on the contrary, by delaying it any longer he might receiue some great losse; because that Selim doubting his loue and good meaning, might assaile him on a sodaine.

These things did greatly trouble the Venetians, who knew very wel that peace with the Turkes, in the warlike and mighty Northerne Prouinces, would great∣lie preiudice the league, and precipitate the state of the Common-wealth into greater daunger: in regard whereof the Pope and the Catholike Kings Agents, propounded to the Emperor, that they would giue him out of the Confederate forces, twenty thousand foote, and foure thousand horse, to enuade the enemies [ 10] on that side, and that the other thirty thousand which remayned (according to the treaty of the league) would suffize for the execution of their Sea actions.

The Emperors Ambassador resident at Rome, had oftentimes assured them, that the Emperor wanted no good will to warre on the Turke, but meanes; and* 1.1635 therefore if the Confederate Princes would promise him aide, he would without all doubt enter into the league; and that all Germany being at last prouoked by necessity and shame, would ioyne in that warre and by their example, Poland and Muscouy would doe the like.

Neuer-the-lesse, all these offers were vaine and to no purpose, because that [ 20] the Emperor making many excuses, continued his former resolution to send the tribute to Constantinople. In the meane time the Gallies of the Pope, Venetians, Florentines and Malteses met at Messina, where with great earnest∣nesse they waited for the arriuall of Don Iohn, who departing from Catha∣lognia with seauen and twenty Gallies and fiue thousand Spanish foote-men, did at last arriue on the last day of Iuly at Genoa, where making short stay, lea∣uing Doria with twelue Gallies, to make prouisions for the fleete, him-selfe went to Naples, where hee was entertayned with great magnificence, and re∣ceiued the standard of Generall for the league which the Pope sent him: and with∣in a while after leauing thirty Gallies to conuoy the shippes, hee went with the [ 30] residew of the fleet to Messina, where he knew that the Generalls of the Pope and Venetians expected him.* 1.1636

Hee was accompanied by many great Lords of Spaine, namely by Don Ber∣nardin de Requesens great commendador of Castill, Don Aluares de Bassan Mar∣quis of Santa Cruz, Don •…•…uan de Cardona, Earle of Piega, Antonio Doria, Carlo d'Analos Duke of Sessa, Ferranti Loffra, and the Marquis of Treuic, who for Nobillity, and the Kings fauour, were very famous: These were of Don Iohns Councell for warre.

Now so soone as Don Iohn arriued at Genoa hee dispatcht Micaele de Monca∣da the Kings counceller to Venice, to acquaint them with his comming and to [ 40] * 1.1637 gratifie the Senate for the good opinion it had conceiued of him, and to pro∣mise that he would in such sort manage all matters, as they should not bee decei∣ued in him: being very desirous speedily to execute some notable enterprize vp∣on the enemies.

These newes, pleasing to all men, did awaken their former hope. The Turke then departing with his whole fleet (as hath beene said) from Corfoù returned to Butintro, where remayning for a time to receaue some intelligence of the Christian fleete, and a new commission from Constantinople, hee went af∣ter-wards to Preueze, where the Bascha receiued certayne newes of the taking of Famagosta, and a particular commission to goe and seeke the Christian fleete [ 05] to fight with it.

The Turkes after the taking of Nicosia had deferd the seege of Famagosta, by

reason of winter and other discommodities, vnfitting for a seege: but so soone as it drew neere towards the spring, they speedily prouided all necessaries for it, as ordnance, munition, and other war-like engins, which were sent to them from Syria and Caramania: fifty thousand Turkes came thither like-wise, many of whome tooke no pay, but onely serued in hope of booty, the Bascha hauing craftely giuen forth, that the spoyle of Famagosta would be farre ritcher then that of Nicosia.

The enemies army being thus prouided, and strengthned, did about the mid∣dest of Aprill approch the city, hauing brought fifteene peeces of battery from [ 10] Nicosia, and making great trenches, one part of the army encamped in the gar∣dens,* 1.1638 and the other at Percipola: Then on the fiue and twentieth of the said moneth they made platformes whereon to plant the ordnance, with deepe and broad trenches for the Harguebusiers, so close together as it was impossible to anoy them, hauing ordinarily (but espetially in the night) forty thousand pioners at worke.

The enemies intent being discouered, they of the towne began to rampier vp all places which they thought the enemy would batter: there was euer a strong gard on the way couered with the counter-scarpe, for the better defence thereof,* 1.1639 and they raised new flanquers; they did afterwards on that side of the wall which [ 20] was battered make a trench twelue foote in depth, and breadth, with small loope∣holes for the Harquebusiers, from thence to defend the counterscarpe.

Marke-Antonio Bragadino was Gouernor of the Citty, who together with Astor Baillone did carefully prouide what-so-euer was necessary without any confusion at all, being a man that well knew what did belong to his place. Anto∣nio Bragadino lay in the Castell raising new flanquers to defend that side of the Arsenall. The Knight Goita was Maister of the ordnance, who being slaine in a skirmish, the Gouernor gaue his company to Nestor Martinenga. More-ouer, three Captaines were appointed, to take charge of the fire-workes, each of them hauing twenty soldiers vnder his command, chosen out of all the companies, to bestow those fiers when neede should bee, all the ordnance was brought to those [ 30] places where they expected the battery.

Besides, they made diuers sallies to molest those abroad, and to hinder their workes. At the last they cleered the citty of all vnprofitable eaters, which were* 1.1640 in number eight thousand persons, who retired into the villages, the Turks doing them no harme: The rest of the people being numbred amounted to the summe of seauen thousand seruiceable men, namely three thousand fiue hundred Italian foot, and the rest Greekes.

Bragadini dayly perceiuing the dangers to encrease by reason of the enemies* 1.1641 approaches, exhorted and encouraged his soldiors, telling them that the time was [ 40] now come to manifest their singular vallour and generous courrage by brauely defending that Citty, so farre remote from other parts of Christendome, against the power of the Ottaman Empire, in so iust a quarrell as theirs was, and to cast away all feare, hoping onely that God, who is the giuer of victories, would giue them good and fortunate successe.

This speech caused euery man to encourage his fellow cheerely to entertaine labour and danger. Three hundred of the beseeged with sword and target, ac∣companied with as many Italian Harquebusiers made a salley, who at first did put the enemies to flight, but at last were so rougly charged, as in their retreate they lost thirty of their men, where-vpon it was concluded to make noe more sallies. [ 50]

The enemies beeing by little and little come to the toppe of the counter∣scarpe,* 1.1642 and hauing ended their fortes which were tenne in number, beganne the battery with three score and foure cannons, among the which were

foure Baliliscos of an exceeding bignesse did beat the Gate 〈◊〉〈◊〉, euen to the Arsenall.

They beganne to batter it in fiue seuerall places at once; the one at the Tower of the Arsenall on which fiue Canon from the fort of the Rock continually plaid, the other against the curtaine without the Arsenall which was battered by ele∣uen peices; the third was out of another Fort with eleuen Cannons vppon the Tower of Andrazzi, and two Caualiers aboue it: the fourth plaid vpon S. Napes great Tower with the foure Basilisks; and the last was against the Gate Lemissa battered from six fortes with three and thirty Cannons, where the Generall Mus∣tapha [ 10] * 1.1643 was in person. At first they began rather to batter the fortifications of the Citties Ordnance, then to ruine the walls, by reason that it did much anoy them; wherevppon the beseeged, so soone as the enemy had begunne the Battery, quar∣tered themselues vnder the wall where they continued till the end: Bragadin kept the tower Andrazzi, Baillone that of S^t. Nape, and Tepulo that of Campo-santo, that they might be present at euery action, to reward the valliant and rebuke cowards. The charge of the Ordnance was committed to Lodouico Martinenga, and six other Captaines were appointed vnder him to command the Canoniers and to furnish them with what they wanted.

Captaine Francesco Bogone commanded the Tower of the great Caualier of [ 20] * 1.1644 the Arsenall: Pietro el Conte lay at the Courtaine of the Caualier Del Volti, and at the Tower of Campo-santo, Nestor Martinenga had charge of the Caualier of Campo▪santo, of that of Andrazzi and of the Curtaine as farre at Saint Napes tower, together with that Curtaine which lieth neere the Gate Lemissa: Horati•…•… Valatri had the guard of the Rauelin & Curtaine towards the Bulwark, Robert Ma∣luezzi cōmanded the Caualier of Lemissa which was more anoied then al the rest.

Besides, so soone as the battery beganne, Bragadint commanded wine, cheese, and poudered flesh to be carryed to the Italian and Greeke soldiers and Gunners vpon the walls, so as the soldiers spent but two Venetian souls a day in bread, and were payed euery thirty dayes. The beseeged did for tenne daies space make so* 1.1645 furious a counter-battery, as they made fifteene of the enemies peices of Ordi∣nance [ 30] vnseruiceable, and flew thirty thousand of their men, so that they were not safe in their forts: but the beseeged foreseeing the want of pouder were enforced∣to limit, how many shotte a day euery peece should make, namely thirty, which must bee made in the Captaines presence, for feare of shooting in* 1.1646 vaine.

The Famagostans beeing thus carefull a Fregate arriued from Candy on the 29. day of May, which encouraged and told them that they should speedily be releeued. The enemies in the meane time hauing by force and great slaughter of their men wonne the Counterscarpe, did beginne to digge downe the earth neere to the wall of the Counterscarpe, which the beseeged did day and night [ 40] carry in: the enemies perceiuing it, made certaine loope holes from which to beat them in flanck, to hinder their workes, (which tooke effect) wherein they af∣terwards threw so much earth as it filled vp the Dike; then hauing perced through the Counterscarpe, they made a passage through the Dike euen to the wall, which they fortified with wooll sacks and fagots: so as they could not be anoyed but from aboue, and that sildome.

The enemies being come so neere the walls began in sundry places to vnder∣mine, wherevppon the beseeged make countermines the charge where▪of was committed to the Knight Maggio, they threw fire workes vppon the enemies, which did greatly an•…•…y them; some of these mines did no good, the rest tooke [ 50] * 1.1647 effect, as that at the Tower of the Arsenall, which with great noyse brake the wall which was of a wonderfull thicknesse, and threw more then the one halfe of it to the ground, carrying with it part of the Paraper.

This breach caused great numbers of Turkes with their Ensignes to

mount it. Pietro el Conte with his company had the gard there, who did brauely at first sustaine their assaults, whither other Captaines with their companies com∣ming to second him; the •…•…urkes were roughly repulsed, the assault hauing con∣tinued aboue fiue howers.* 1.1648

The beseeged in this action lost aboue an hundred and three-score men, and many were wounded there. Marco Criuellatore and the Knight Maggio did af∣terwards in all parts, where they perceaued mines to be made, make places of re∣fuge well flanqued with barrells full of moist earth, and sackes full of straw, the Greekes for that purpose bringing willingly what-so-euer they wanted, for the [ 10] speedy reparation of the Parapetts, ruined by the enemies artillery, which plaid vppon them day and night without intermission.

These reparations were to very great purpose because that the shot lighting on no solide substance did no other harme then carry away with it some of those sackes, and others beeing presently put in their place, the breach was still stopt vp. The enemies, pursuing their former deseigns, gaue fire to the mine of the raueling of the Rocke, which made a very great breach; where-vpon,* 1.1649 they presently gaue a furious assault, Mustapha looking vpon and encouraging them. Count Hercules Martinenga and his company did brauely with-stand them, till the other Captaines came thither, and then the enemies were repulsed with [ 20] great losse: the like happened at the Arsenall, where after an assault, which lasted sixe howers, the Turkes, to their great shame, were enforced to retire: The Bishop of Limissawith the crosse in his hand, came to the assault to encourage his coun∣trymen; the like did many valliant Ladies, bringing armes, stones, and scalding water to the soldiers.

The enemies being by these meanes, and by the singular valour of the besee∣ged, so often repulsed, and out of hope that way to take the Citty, began to build other forts neerer to it, from whence they might with more ease beate downe* 1.1650 the defendants fortifications and safe places of retreat, and taken from themselues all impediment: and hauing to this end built seauen •…•…orts, they planted great [ 30] store of ordnance in them, from whence they continually shot, keeping them still in alarum and made shew (especially in the night) as if they would giue an assault, whereby the beseeged had not a moments ease, nor any meanes to rest, but onely in the heat of the day.

The Turkes at last perceuing that breaches of the mines were not suffi•…•…ient to open their passage, fell to vndermining the walls, so as they reduced the Rauelin to so small a space, as the beseeged were enforced to giue themselues scope with* 1.1651 boords and other matter. Then the Knight Maggio perceauing that of necessity they were to abandon the Rauelin, being no longer able to keepe it, hee made a mine there, that he might quit it to the enemies great losse, [ 40]

Mustapha perceauing that the wall might bee mounted in sundry places, re∣solued at one time to giue an assalt in foure seuerall places, namely at the Rauelin at Saint Napes tower, at that of Andruzzi, and at the Curtaine and tower of the Arsenall; in all which they fought continually for sixe howres space, in three of which the enemies were brauely repulsed, but the fourth, which was the Rauelin, was of set purpose forsaken, to the great hurt both of the Turkes and Christians. For, it being assalted those within it being not able with their armes to stirre vp and downe, by reason of the small roome, and going about to retire as it had bin already determined, the enemies mingled them-selues among them, where∣vpon, fire being giuen to the mine, it blew vp a thousand of the enemies, and two [ 50] hundred Christians. Mustapha him-selfe was present at euery assault, where he en∣courraged his soldiers, rebuked some, and promised rewards to others according to their deserts. The Rauelin being lost there was no more betwixt the assaillants and the beseeged then the thickenesse of the places of retreat, made (as hath beene said) with tuns and sacks full of earth, and straw, so, that those of the campe, and the

〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…oldiers, did often times talke together according to the manner of war, the Turkes flouting and bragging, and the Christians deriding their vani•…•…y, and a∣mid their iests the enemies brought •…•…om Christian slaues they had in their Camp to propound to them some particular agreement•…•…, as they had already o•…•…tentimes done by letters to the Gouernour and people •…•…yed to arrowes, which were neuer answered nor any consent giuen to come to parley.

The Turkes perceiuing that their cunning trickes were to no purpose, did a∣gaine turne to force, and came to a new assault by meanes of the Rauelin which they had already wonne, where on both sides was a braue fight, but most of all to the honour and reputation of the beseeged, for, valou•…•…ous and bra•…•…e Baillone [ 10] * 1.1652 beeing more couragious in deedes then words, encouraging his Soldiors in the formost rankes, did himselfe take from a Turkish Enseigne-bea•…•…er, an Enseigne wherein the Armes of the Venetian Common wealth was painted, which they had wonne at the taking of Nicosia, and Lodouico M•…•…rtinenga 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the other side, who had the guard of that quarter, oftentimes refreshing his men in the fight, putting new in their stead that were hurt or tired, still exhorting them to doe worthily, did that day purchase the fame and reputation of a discreet and valiant Captaine.

This attempt of the enemies, hauing no good successe, they inuented ano∣ther* 1.1653 way, yet vnpractised, •…•…hey did cast a great heape of wood called •…•…eglia which [ 20] is very apt to burne, against the gate of the Rauelin with store of pitch•…•… •…•…agots, which thy set on fier, it burnt so fiercely as it was impossible to quench it, this fier lasted fiue dayes, by meanes wherof the beseeged were enforced to retire far∣ther in by meanes of the great heat and smoake.

Notwithstanding all these discommodities, labours and troubles, these valiant men did still continew the defense of their Cittie, determining to hold out euen to the last Man: but all things fai•…•…ing, sauing hope and courage, and all manner of victuals beeing very scarce, they hauing already eaten asses, horse, doggs, catts and hauing no more bread nor corne to make any, drincking nothing but water, perceiuing besides that three other mines were making towards the Cauallier of [ 30] the gate, that of al the Italian soldiers there were only but eight hundred in health, and they so tired and spent with long watching and continuall trauell sustained in fight in the heare of the day, and the most part of the Greekes being slaine; the cheefe of the Citty determined to present a petition to the Gouernour, wherein* 1.1654 relating the want and misery wherevnto they were reduced, they besought him, in regard they had freely exposed their liues and meanes to maintaine the Citty vnder the obedience of the Common-wealth, that he would by yeelding on ho∣norable conditions, preserue the honour of their Wiues and Children, which would bee exposed eauen as a Prey vnto the enemies, if they should enter by force.

Vpon this Petition of the People, the Magistrates and cheefe Captains con∣sulted what was best to be done, their opinions beeing very different: for some [ 40] thought it fit to continue their defense, and to dy with their swords in their hands raiher then to yeeld, or else to sally forth in the night, and on a suddaine to assaile* 1.1655 the enemies, and with their blood by dying to reuenge their death: That they could not beleeue that the Turkes would obserue and performe any accord they should make with them, perceiuing that necessity had rather induced them ther∣unto then any free motion, that their yeelding would wrong and impaire the ho∣nour and reputation which till then they had gotten. Others on the contrary said, That it did not beseeme them, vnto whom the guard and conseruation of that Citty had beene committed, to shew themselues more cruell towards the in∣habitants, then the very Turkes, because that there was nothing more certaine, [ 50] then that the Captaines of the Camp did only propound an accord because they would preserue the Citty from being sackt, and to saue the Inhabitants liues,

knowing that if their soldiers should once enter by force; it would then bee to late to hold them backe: besides, as it was not the part of a valliant man basely to yeeld for feare of death, in like manner to lose his life rashly and vnprofitably, proceeded rather from foolish obstinacy then from magnanimity. These reasons with diuers others being alleadged to the same purpose, did after a long consulta∣tion preuaile, and they resolued to yeeld on honorable composition. In this man∣ner on the first day of August, after sundry treaties it was concluded, by meanes* 1.1656 of an Italian enseigne which was prisoner in the campe, that ther should be truce; and vpon giuing of hostages on either side, began to treate of the particularities of acord for the citty. Hercules Martinenga, and Matteo C•…•…lti, a Cittizen of Fama∣gosta, [ 10] were giuen in hostage for those of the Citty, and for the enemies, Musta∣pha his Lieutenant, and the Lieutenant to the Aga or Captaine of the Ianissaries,* 1.1657 whome Baillone with certaine horse and two hundred Harquebusiers went to re∣ceiue at the gate, our men were like-wise honorably entertayned by the enemies, Mustapha his Sonne comming forth to meet them, with great numbers of horse and foot, who brought them to his father, who hauing entertained them, bestow∣ed on them two ritch gownes imbrodered with gold, and then sent them to lodge in the Aga's Pauillon.

It is a thing to be wondred at that those in the Citty which had sustained so great labour, misery and calamities, in sted of reioycing for that their troubles [ 20] would shortly end, were sad and melancholy, as men foreseeing their future wret∣chednesse. The Commissioners seemed easily to grant what-so-euer was pro∣pounded to them, which in effect was, That the soldiers should bee safely con∣ducted into Candy by the Tur ish Vessells, carrying along with them their armes and bagage with fiue peeces of ordnance, and three horse belonging to the three cheefe Commanders: That the inhabitants that were desirous to depart, might* 1.1658 doe the like, and those that would tarry behind should haue assurance giuen them to enioy their goods and to liue in their Christian Religion. These Articles were in one day propounded, signed and granted, and countersigned by Mustapha with his owne hand: wherevpon for the execution thereof, forty Vessells of all sorts [ 30] were on a sodaine sent to the Heauen, where the sicke men began to be embarked, the rest standing vpon their guard to hinder the Turkes from enterprizing any matter contrary to the accord, till such time as they were all shipt, the Turkes neuer-the-lesse dealing curteously with them both in word and deed. Yet so soone as the enemies came into the citty, they began to wrong the inhabitants, and to commit violence, wherewith Braga•…•…ini hauing acquainted Mustapha, entreated him that for the performance of his owne promise, and obseruation of the arti∣cles, he would command the soldiors to cease from farther violence, and to send* 1.1659 more ships to embarke the remainder of the Christian soldiers. Nest•…•…r Martinen∣ga was sent on this message to the Bascha, who courteously entertained him, and [ 40] graunted his demand, seeming to be very desirous to know Bragadini and to con∣ferre with him, as with a valliant and noble Captaine, of whome him-selfe had made tryall.

Bragadini giuing credit to these sugred words, leauing Tepulo in the citty, did the ending of the same day, beeing accompanied with Baillone Martinenga and* 1.1660 Quirini, goe to the Baschas tent, attended on by sundry Captaines, and Greeke Gentlemen all on horse backe, with some forty Harquebusiers on foote. Bra∣gadini rod formost vnder a crimson Vmbrella or Canopie, clothed in purple, wearing his vsuall robe of Magistrate, who being come to the Baschas Pauillion, left their weapons at the doore, and being entred were curteously entertayned [ 50] by Mustapha, who caused them to sit downe, where after they had discoursed on sundry matters, the Bascha dissembling that which hee had already determined in his mind thought it time to put it in execution, and the better to bring it to passe, he craued caution for the vessells he lent them, wherevnto Brag•…•…dini hauing

made answer, that no such thing was mentioned in the Articles, and that therefore they were not tyed there vnto, and besides, he had no man there with him whome he could leaue behind for that purpose. Mustapha pointing to Quirini, said, let this man be a pledge, Bragadin constantly maintayned the contrary, and told him that he could not iustly detained any of them: the Bascha waxing impatient, and be∣ing no longer able to master his choller, did fiercely thunder many iniurious speeches against them, accusing them that they had during the tru•…•…e contrary to the law of armes put diuers of his Turkes to death, whome they had taken priso∣ners, (which was most false) and rising from his sta•…•…e, commanded them all pre∣sently to be manaclcd: then thrusting them forth of his tent, he caused his soldiers [ 10] * 1.1661 to murder Baillone, Martinenga, Quirini and all the rest before Bragadins face, who was reserued to a greater torture, hauing before his death endured many marter∣domes, they caused him twice or thrice to offer his necke, as though hee would haue cut off his head, which he most courragiously presented to them, they would not at that time put him to death, but did onely cut off his nose and eares.

Count Hercules who had beene sent as an hostage, being like-wise manacled, was hid by Mustaphas Eunuch till his Maisters fury was past, whose slaue he be∣came after-wards. All the Christian soldiors were presently taken and bound, not distrusting any such perfidious cruelty. Those which were already shipt had no better vsage, for beeing dispoyled of their goods, they were all made Gallie∣slaues. [ 20]

Two daies after, Mustapha entred the Citty, where he commanded Tepulo to be brought forth of prison whether hee had committed him, and presently to bee hanged at the yards arme of a Gallie: Then causing Bragadin who was wounded and dismembred to be brought before him, he loaded him, (though he were weake and feeble) with two baskets full of earth, the one before, and the other behinde, and willed him to carry them to the breach, making him to kisse the ground as of∣ten* 1.1662 as he passed by him: then sending him to the Hauen into a Gallie of R•…•…odes he caused him to be bound in a chare, with a crowne at his feete, and in that man∣ner to be hoisted vp to the maineyard of the Gallie, that hee might bee the better discerned by the slaues and Christian soldiors that were in the Hauen, at the last, [ 30] the noble Gentleman beeing brought backe to the citties Market-place, with drums and trumpets in the view of all men, was stript forth of his clothes, and was there most ignominiously laid a long vpon a scaffold, and most cruelly flead a liue, who without any murmuring, taking his marterdome patiently, did onely taxe the Bascha with his perfidious cruelty and periury, hauing his hart still lifted vp to God, beseeching him to giue him grace to die constantly for his holy faith and religion, and then so soone as the executioners with their bloudy kniues were come as farre as his naule, his blessed soule leauing his fraile earthly mansion flew vp to heauen. His skinne was presently stuft with straw, and carried round about the citty; then it was hung at the yard arme of a Galleor, and carried all along the coast of Syria, in his returne towards Constantinople, proudlie and vaine∣gloriously shewing it to the whole world: the body was cut in foure quarters, and [ 40] set vp at the foure principall batteries.

It was not certainly knowne why Mustapha vsed such barbarous cruelty: some said, that he hauing taken the spoyle from the soldiors which hee had pro∣mised them, went about to satisfie them by the punishment of a few, in reuenge of the great multitude which hee had lost at the seege: others say, that hee being prouoked by their obstinate holding out, and for that he had lost some of his deere friends at that seege, whome hee loued, had sworne to bee reuenged. There bee like-wise which say, that Mustapha was of so cholericke a nature, as being once moued, he would for the time be like a mad man, and that hee was prouoked [ 05] by scorne and disdaine, when hee saw Bragadini and the rest to come to his Pa∣uilion attended by troupes of soldiers, and in such stately manner, as though hee

had beene a conqueror and not conquered. But this occasion beeing to idle of it selfe to cause him to commit such cruell and barbarous actions is not very cre∣dible; for he being mooued by his owne wicked and diuilish disposition, did vse like cruelty towards the dead. For comming into the Cathedrall Church of S.* 1.1663 Nicholas, he caused the toombs and monuments to be opened, and the bones of the dead to be throwne heere and there, he ouerthrew Altars, and Images, with other brutish and cruell actions, for which his owne soldiers did much condemne him. Hauing in this manner conquered the citty, he presently caused the Dikes to be clensed, the forts that were abroad to be razed, the trenches to be filled, and whatsoeuer within the walles had beene ruined to be rampierd vp againe, so as in [ 10] a short space the Citty was restored to her former beauty, and made stronger then before.

The Basha hauing left the Bey of Rhodes Gouernour there departed from Cyprus on the twenty fourth of September, and returned victorious and trium∣phant* 1.1664 to Constantinople where with great ioy he was welcomed by al men, not∣withstanding that his victory was bought at a deere rate: for in that warre he lost aboue fifty thousand men, and among others many excellent Captaines, and great numbers of his best soldiers. But now to returne to the Christian fleet.

THe triumuirate Admirals D. Iohn, Sebastiano Venieri & Mare Antonio Colonna, [ 20] * 1.1665 meeting after some delay all at Messina in Sicily, after ioyful & mutuall gratu∣lation of their so happy and desired conuention, leauing those Ceremonies, they proceeded to the more essentiall parts of the businesse. They first priuately con∣sulted how to employ those forces to some honorable and cōmodious end, that the successe of the warre might counterpoize the charge and expectation. This Councel consisted of some few of the most select and eminent of the Army, both for authority and iudgement, as principally D. Iohn Generall, Sebastiano Venieri the Venetian Admiral, Marc Antoni•…•… Colonna, the Popes Admirall, Bernardino de Requesens Great Comendador of Castile and Lieutenant Generall of the Army, and Augustino Barbarico Prouidator Generall of the Venetian fleet. [ 30]

The proposition was whether they should seeke to oppresse the enemy by maine battaile, or defend their owne territories, wherein, various opinion inter∣changeably* 1.1666 vttered, Bernardino de Requesens, D. Iohns Oracle, being inuited by the rest, with cleere voyce, graue countenance, and significant gesture said thus.

Your Highnesse (most excellent Prince) in commanding mine opinion before these more sufficient, obserues the order of feasts, where the coursest meates are tasted first. My Councell may perhaps be lesse pleasing, yet as holsome as some other. The question is whether wee shall assault the enemy by sea, or keepe him from infesting vs by land. This will best be resolued when we haue made true dis∣couery and comparrison of his forces and our owne. If we be stronger, it is more [ 40] honorable to inuade, if weaker more safe to repell; what the number of the ad∣uerse Gallies is we may see, how those Gallies are fortefied and man'd we may coniecture, and how those men are flesht and confirm'd with late victories wee need not doubt. Let vs take heed that while wee seeke to reuenge our harmes, wee doe not aggrauate them, nor lose in striuing to recouer. It were a shame to returne so great a fleet without some notable effect: but i•…•… were both shame and vtter vndoing not to returne it at all. The Common-wealth were better want the interest then the principall. This fleet is the surest Ankor of our hope, and to lose it would indanger the wracke of Italy. Let vs not therefore offer to fight, vnlesse some aduantage of place [ 50] or time on our side counterpoize the odds of strength on theirs: or to preserue with hazard of our fleet somthing of greater importance (if any can be) then the fleet it selfe. The storminesse of winter will shortly calme the fury of this Turkish

nauy. In the meane time it wilbe a degree of our victory to limit and stop the course of theirs. This, most excellent Generall is mine opinion, to which I am not yet so wedded, but that any cleerer iudgement may diuorce me.

This was of some cooler tempers heard with applause, but of the noble Venie∣ri and Barbarico, not without disdaine, which yet was modestly oppugned by Bar∣barico as followeth.

I deny not (most excellent Generall, and you my noble Lords) but that this* 1.1667 speech of D. Bernardino de Requesens is inritched and strengthened with forcible argument: wherein if there yet be any defect, it proceeds not from to little iudge∣ment, [ 10] but too much care and tendernesse of the Christian State, a zeale which not onely excuseth, but almost iustifies and endeares his error: I confesse, that to op∣pose against a stronger, a weaker power were to betray it. But wherein appeares it that we are the weaker? If they exceed vs in number of Gallies, we excell them in strength and swiftnesse: if they vs in multitudes of men, we them in courage, and discipline? He thinkes their victories haue added much to their courage, I thinke deduc'd more from their strength. Questionlesse our men in Cyprus and other places held their Altars, liberties, wiues, children, wealth, countries, and liues at to high a rate to deliuer them vp gratis. They haue found the Christian markets deare, nay happily their victories may beget ours, breeding in them not animosi∣ty, but security and presumption, euer their owne traitor. Was this fleet built and [ 20] set together with so much care, cost, and difficulty, presently to dissolue and break vp, as if we meet but to salute, or went to sea onely to purge and returne? or shall we stay only to looke on our enemies, as if we could destroy them like Basilisks? But winter will coole their heate: were not we better quench it now that it may not breake out againe the next spring? Will not this crocodile which deuoures vs both by sea and land, fatned with Christian bloud and spoile, wax stronger by a yeeres growth? If we be to weake for him now; How shall we resist him then? How shall we looke our Country, nay Heauen in the face, or lift vp our eyes to it, not daring to lift our hands against their enemies? But I surfet your eares with perswation needlesse to such a iudgement and resolution. Your fathers Impe∣riall [ 30] Maiesty displaied in your brow promiseth the same magnanimity in your brest. There is I know to much Caesar in you to haue the patience not to fight. Make hast then Illustrious Prince to reape this mature and fruitfull victory with your sword.

This was the sence of his speech which the speakers reputation and gracefull deliuery gaue more life and strength to. It was afterwards more amply and methodically confirmed by Cornia a Spaniard. The sympathy betweene whose tongue, and the Generals eare farthered perhaps his resolution to fight, willing that so noble a councell might be rather attributed to one of that nation then to Barbarico. Cornia his speech was in effect this. [ 40]

There are three motiues (most magnificent Generall) which without impu∣tation* 1.1668 of feare, or omission of duty, may induce a Commander to decline battaile. First, disproportion betweene the benefit of victory, and preiudice of ouerthrow on either part. In this respect, the Duke of Alua did politickly abstaine from in∣countring the Guyse in Naples, where the French could loose but their army, but the Spaniard his army and Kingdome of Naples.

Secondly if he foresee an easier, cheaper, and safer meanes to dissolue the ad∣uerse army, then by battaile. Thus did your Highnesse father Charles the fifth, of sacred memory, breake the neck of the Protestants army in Germany.

Lastly the inequallity of strength. He being the weaker and likely to miscary in the attempt, whereof there are so many Presidents that we need alleadge none. But neither of these can be applied to diuert vs from battaile, wherein if we pre∣uaile wee recouer our owne againe, and happily Greece for forbearance. If fighting valliantly we be ouercome, yet shall we in the conflict so farre weaken

and maine the aduerse fleet, that we shall sooner arme a defensiue nauy, then he an offensiue, and easilier secure our own then he make any farther impression on it.

Touching protraction. The winter will in deed dissolue his fleet, but so, that it will bud forth againe the next spring; perhaps grow greater and get the start of our nauy. His being vnited by nation, ours by combination.

Touching inequallity of force, it is probable we exceed them more in men then they vs in vessels. For he must needs consuine many men in taking so many strong townes and forts, and imploy many in keeping them. Neither are the ska•…•…s of the late pestilence yet healed among them; Therefore my aduise is, the Gallies of Candy being come, that you hasten to Corfou, by which they must needs passe, [ 10] least hauing intelligence of your resolution to fight, they preuent the danger of incounter, and carry from you the fruits of their owne victory, and opportunity of ours.

Don Iohn after this serious consultation concluded to assaile the Turkish fleet & attempt to intercept their haruests of Cyprus, and other Maritime parts of Chri∣stendome ere they should house it. Therefore departing from Messina on the 17. of September, being at sea, he composed his Gallies to that forme of battaile he ment to obserue in fight: so marshalling and exercizing them before, that euery squadron might know his place, and euery Galley his squadron, and bee able to transforme themselues into all figures, without confusion, when occasion should [ 20] require. Two daies after they arriued at the Cape of Colonnes, where they came to anchor by reason of a contrary winde, as also for that they were there to take in fresh supplies of footmen. In the meane time they dispatched Gill Andrada with three other Venetian Gallies to Corfou, to make certaine discouery of the Tur∣kish fleet, of which three, that of Cater•…•…no Maripietro presently returned to con∣duct Paulo Vrsino and the Colonel 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the Nauy, bringing newes that* 1.1669 the Turkish fleet had passed along in view of Zant, and were entred into the Gulph of Lepanto.

Herevpon, though with much difficulty, by reason of contrary windes, they put to sea, and the seuenteenth of September arriued at Corfoù: from whence the [ 30] last of the same month they set saile and came to anchor in a safe and spacious Roade at the Gamonisses, where Giouan Andrea Doria being by the Generall commanded to suruey the army, finding some Venetian Gallies not compleat in men, distributed amongst them certaine companies of Spanish and Italian soul∣diers, whereof Mutius Tortona commanded one band. He a man of a turbulent insociable nature being vpon some occasion aboord Calergo the Candiot fell at difference with some of the company, proceeding from words to blowes. Venieri not farre off, informed of the tumult, sent first one of his captaines, who, not pre∣uailing,* 1.1670 was seconded by the Admirall of Venieri his squadron, who ouer confi∣dently interposing himselfe in the quarrell became a sharer amongst them of [ 40] some blowes, and in conclusion was dangerously wounded, which Venieri inter∣preting an intollerable contempt of his authority, iealous rather of the States dignity then his owne, commanded Mutio and his Enseigne to bee apprehended, and according to martiall seuerity in case of mutiny presently hanged at the yard arme of the same Galley to deterre others from like insolence.

This priuate sparke of dissention had like to haue kindled a generall flame through the whole army and haue turned their swords, now drawne against the common enemy, vpon their owne bosomes. For the Generall naturally partiall to the Spanish, and perhaps enuious of Venieros Authority, as his Corriuall in honour, considered only the seuerity of the punishment but not the capitalnesse [ 50] of the crime exacting it, so that now the combustion suruiued the Author, and the discord bred in an inferior member of the army was ascended to the head, and endangered the whole.

Don Iohn complained that his authority was more contemned by Venieri

then Venieri by Tortona, for which if the councell of warre gaue him nothono∣rable* 1.1671 satisfaction, he would take it himselfe, and teach him that though he respec∣ted the honor of the Venetian Estate, he would not neglect his owne. To these coales the friends of Tortona and maligners of Venieri (a very base office) ser∣ued as bellowes.

Venieri on the other part protesting that he did it not to blemish the reputati∣on* 1.1672 of the Generall, but to preserue his owne and preuent the sodaine contagion of the mutiny, desired Don Iohn, would make his reason, not his affection iudge of it, and consider the party executed not as a Spaniard but mutineere. Affirmed that if the Generall should take this iust, though seuere execution, as an occasion [ 10] to breake the league which was applied as a meanes to keepe it, it would be ma∣nifest, that not deuotion induced, but ambition diuerted him from this honoura∣ble action. As for violence, hee should finde him as dangerous an enemy as o∣therwise a necessary friend.

Colonna Admirall of the Popes Gallies, a man worthy so eminent place, wisely foreseeing what this might grow to, as a man equally beloued and louing both parts, nobly vsed his intercession to suppresse, or at least cōpound the strife▪

Chief∣ly importuning Don Iohn, in whom hee found greater obstinacy of discontent and estrangement, telling him the act was iust, though sodaine, like the occasion, and that suddainnesse necessary in dangers of so swift extention, as hauing once [ 20] got the start, remedy could hardly ouertake them. That mutiny in an army was of as instant conueyance as a Gangrene in the body, if the parts infected were not presently cut off, it endangered the whole. That it was no intrusion on the Generalls authority, for an vnder Admirall in his owne squadron on to exe∣cute a priuate offender. That in deed hee had no cause of offense, or if hee had cause, yet no leisure to entertaine it. That the enemies strength could not so much endanger them as their owne diuision weaken them. That as nothing could heape more honour on him then the suppressall of the enemy, so nothing could lay fowler aspersion then to loose this opportunity of doing it. There∣fore ifhee could not cassier his passion, hee should imploy it against the com∣mon [ 30] Aduersary.

These petswations, strong but not bitter, deliuered by a friend, though for a reputed enemy, mooued him to abstaine from the effects of choller, though not to extinguish it. So that distasted of Venieri, he communicated al important de∣seig nes and consulted with Barbarico.

From hence they held on their course to Cephalonia, according to their former resolution, and on the sourth of October passing the Channell of Viscarda, on the fifth they anchored in the vale of Alexandria. Where Gyll Andrada, and Gi∣uan Baptista Contareni brought letters from Paulo Contareni, Prouidator of Zant, confirming their intelligence of the Turkish fleet. Herevpon by vnisent [ 40] of the whole councell of warre and earnest desire of the souldiers they hasted to the Gulph of Lepanto to fight with the enemy. And drawing neere vnto vn∣to the place, Don Iohn commanded the decks to be cleered, chests stowed, those cabins which might bee impediment to the valliant taken downe, the rest that might bee receptacles to cowards lock'd vp, leauing neither excuse for his men nor aduantage for his enemies. And as hee prepared all essentiall so hee neg∣lected no imaginary or opinionate part of defense or offense. Therefore know∣ing that strength was the beauty of an army, but brauery the Enseigne of that strength, his men were armed ritchly, and his Gallies sutable to his men, both carrying the badge of triumph, and a face of victory, displaying magnanimity [ 50] and confidence, not effeminacy, like a bright but dreadfull flame.

And now, that hee might husband the small remainder of time of the vtmost minute, he caused victuals to be proportioned to his men moderately not super∣fluously, farre from the swynish custome of some northerly nations, who as if

wine were the nursse of valor as oyle to a lampe, against any sea fight knock the heads out of their barrels, and drinke the wit out of their owne heads and so reele aboord, some times stumbling vpon victory but neuer vpon honor, which must euer be deriued from vertue, not vice. This noble tempera•…•…e captaine vnder∣stood drunkennesse could not be the fountaine of resolution, and therefore distri∣buted so much to his souldiers as might strengthen their bodies, not weaken their iudgements, and breed courage in them, not rage; which with more speed then ceremony ended, the Heroick Generall, with countenance and habit becomming such a place and person, descended into his Barge, in which he passed through the fleet, being arranged in forme following. [ 10]

It consisted of foure distinct partes principall, viz. Two wings, the maine bat∣taile,* 1.1673 and a reseruation of succors. In the right wing were conteined three and fifty Gallies, whereof Giouan Andrea Doria was Admirall, bearing in his maine top a greene flag. The lest wing was composed of an equall number of Gallies commanded by Augustino Barbarico with a yellow flagge on the starboord side of his toppe. In the maine battaile were included three score and one Gallies wherein Don Iohn the Generall was himselfe, distinguished by a sky-colloured flag. The two wings and the maine battaile were one hundred sixty seuen Gallies strong, so placed that the two wings carried forwards the body with equall pace, one not forsaking the other: yet betweene all three was there suffitient distance [ 20] to admit three or foure Gallies a brest without falling foule either of themselues; the wings, or maine battaile: as well to giue way to those supplies of reskewes which should be needfull in any part, as to transforme the whole battaile it selfe into any figure without confusion. Aluarez de Bassan Marquis of Santa Cruz bearing a white flagge in his poope, conducted the reseruations of succor, con∣sisting of thirty eight Gallies, out of which were deducted eight, comman∣ded by Don Iuan de Cardona, precursor of the whole fleet, who running twen∣ty or fiue and twenty miles before the rest, by swift Fregats, signified vnto the Generall whatsoeuer was necessary to be known in their discouery, with com∣mandement when they descried the Turkish Nauy to retire and impe themselues [ 30] to the wings in equall diuision: Cardona into the Right.

The Galeasses and Argozies were halfe a mile before the Gallies, two before the right wing, two before the left, and two before the middle battaile, euery Ga∣leasse a mile from each other: the first were commanded by Ambrosio and Antonio Bragadini, the second by Iacomo Guori, and Antonio Duodi, the third by Andrea Pisa∣r•…•…, and Pietro Pisano. The vse of these greater vessels (being fortified with plenty of ordnance and lined with multitude of smal shot) was to receiue the first fury of the enemies fleet passing by, that beeing weakened and disordered by them, the next charge might be more safe and easie.

And in respect they were huge and vnwildy vessels vnapt for oares, euery Ga∣leasse [ 40] was towed by two seuerall Gallies whensoeuer they were becalmed and had lost the vse of their sailes. The Galeasse of Antonio Duodi was towed by the gene∣rall and Colonna. The Galeasse of Iacomo Guori by Sebastian Venieri and Christ ofe∣ro Lieni. The Galeasse, of Ambrosio Bragadino by Augustine Barbarigo. The Gale∣asse of Antonio Bragadini by Antonio Canali. The Galeasse of Andrea Pisaro by the Prior of Messina. The Galeasse of Pietro Pisano by Gionan Andrea Doria. The ge∣nerall like the heart in the middest of a body was seated in the middest of the bat∣taile, guarded on the right side by Marc: Antonio Colonna the Popes Admiral, and on the left by Sebastian Vinieri the Venetians high Admirall. Colonna was flan∣ked by the Admirall of the Geneuois, whereof Hector Spinola was captaine, asso∣ciated [ 50] with the Prince of Parma.

Venieri was flanked with the Admirall of Sauoy, commanded by Lie•…•…y, ac∣companied with the Prince of Vrbin.

A sterne the Generall, Colonna and Venieri were back't with a Galley named

the Prince of Spaine, and an other belonging to the great Commendador of Castile.

The right side of the maine battaile opposite to the wing was strengthened by the Admirall Galley of Malta commanded by the Prior of Messina. The left side was guarded by a Galley called the captaine of Petro Lomelino, commanded by Paulo Iordano Orsino.

In the right wing Iohn de Cardona seconded Giouan Andrea Doria. In the left wing Augustino Barbarico was supported on one handby Marco Quirini, and on the other by Canali. Yet was the whole fleet though distinct in order so intermix•…•… [ 10] in nation, that neither the Spanish, Venetian nor Popes Gallies could respect their particular safety.

The particular names of euery Galley, his place and captaine of the Christian fleet may be found in this Catalogue.

These Gallies and captaines went before the [ 20] fleet for discouerey.

Gallies.	Captaines.
1. The Saint Magdalen of Ve∣nice.	Marco Contareni.
2. The Sunne of Venice.	Vincento Quirini.
3. The Admirall of Sicily. [ 30]
4. The Vice-Admirall of Sici∣ly.	Iuan de Cardona Admirall of the Sicillian fleet.
5. The Admirall.	Dauid Imperiali.
6. The Ioannica of Sicill.
7. Saint Caterina of Venice.	Marco Cigognia.
8. Our Lady of Venice.	Petro Francesco Maripietro.

The Gallies and captaines of the [ 40] left wing.

Gallies.	Captaines.
1. The Admirall of Venice.	Augustino Barbarigo Prouidator Generall of the Venetian fleet.
2. The Vice-Admirall of Ve∣nice. [ 50]	Antonio Canalis an other Prouida∣tor likewise of the Venetian fleet.
3. The Fortune of Venice.	Andrea Barbarico.

4. The Atcher of Naples.	Martino Pyrola.
5. The Trebble hand of Ve∣nice.	Georgio Barbarico.
6. The double Dolphin of Can∣dy.	Francesco Zeno.
7. The Lion and Phoenix of Ca∣nia.	Francesco Mengano.
8. Saint Nicolas of Cherso.	Colanes Drafi. [ 10]
9. The Victory of Naples.	Octauio Roccardi.
10. The Lomelina.	Augustino Coneuali.
11. The Elengina of the Popes.	Fabio Valciati knight.
12. The Lady of Cania.	Philippo Polani.
13. The Sea-horse of Candy.	Antonio de Cubellis.
14. The double Lyon of Candy.	Nicolo Fratello.
	Before these went Am∣brosio Braga∣dino with his Galeasse.
15. The Lion of Istria.	Dominico de Tucco.
16. The Crosse of Cephalonia.	Marco Cimera. [ 20]
17. The Saint Virginia of Cepha∣nia.	Christofero Crissa.
18. The Lion of Candy.	Francisco Bonaccio.
19. The Christe of Candy.	Andrea Cornelio.
20. The Angel of Candy.	Giouan Angelo.
21. The Piramis of Candy.	Francesco Buono.
22. The Lady of Candy with the Armed-horse.	Antonio Eudomeniano. [ 30]
23. The Christe raised againe of Venice.	Simone Gora.
24. The lesser Christe raised a∣gaine of Venice.	Frederico Renieri.
25. The Christe of Corfou.	Christofero Condocollo.
26. The Christe raised againe of Cania.	Georgio Calerga.
27. The Christe of Venice.	Bartholomeo Donato. [ 40]
28. The Christe raised againe of Vegia.
29. The Retimana.	Nicolo Auonali.
30. The Christe of Candy.	Giouan Cornelio.
31. The Christe raised againe of Cania.	Francesco Zancaruolo.
32. The Rodus of Cania.	Francesco Molino. [ 50]
33. The S. Euphemia of Brescia.	Horatio Fisogna.
34. The Lady Marquis of Do∣ria.	Francesco Sphedra.

35. The fortune of Andrew.	Giouan Lodouico Belui.
3•…•…. The Arme of Cania.	Micaele Vizamano.
37. The Sea-horse of Venice.	Antonio Canali.
38. The Christe of Cania.	Daniele Calefattio.
39. The Arme of Venice.	Nicolo Lipomano.
40. Our Lady of Zant.	Nicolo Modono.
41. The Christe raised againe.	Francesco Zancaruolo.
42. Our Lady of Venice.	Marc-Antonio Pisano. [ 10]
43. God the father in Trinity.	Giouan Contareni.
44. The flame of Naples.	Iuan Cueua.
45. The Saint Iohn of Naples.	Garçia Vargaro.
46. The enuy of Naples.	Torribio Acaueso.
47. The valliant of Naples.	Micaele Quixada.
48. The Sancta Iacobea of Na∣ples.	Monseratto Guardiola.
49. The Saint Nicolaico of Na∣ples.	Christofero Mongiua. [ 20]
50. The Christe raised againe of Venice.	Giouan Baptista Quirini.
51. The Angell of Venice.	Vnfredo Iustiniano.
52. The Saint Dorotea of Venice.	Paulo Nani.
53. The Admirall of Venice.	Marc-Antonio Quirini Prouidator of the Venetian Nauy. [ 30]

In the maine battaile were these captaines and Gallies.

Gallies.	Captaines.
1. The Admiral of Lomelina.	Paulo Iordano Orsino, Admirall of that fleet.
2. The Master Lomelina.	Petro Baptista Lomelino. [ 40]
3. The Admirall Bandinella.	Bandinello Saulo vice-admirall of that fleet.
4. The Master of Genoa.	Pallerano.
5. The Toscano of the Popes.	Metello Caracciolla knight.
6. The Sea-man of Vincenza.	Iacomo Dressano.
7. Our Lady of Venice.	Giouan Zeno.
8. The Saint Ieronimo of Lesina.	Giouan Balzi.
9. The Saint Ioannica of Venice.	Giouan Antonio Colleoneo. [ 50]
10. The S. Alexādrica of Bergamo	Georgio De Aesté Admirall.
11. The Admirall Marina.	Ieronimo Canali.
12. The Logge of Venice.	Bertuccio Contareni.

13. The Mongibello of Venice.	Francisco Dandolo.
14. The Virgin of Candy.	Cypriano Marini.
15. The temperāce of Giouan An∣drea Doria.	Vincentio Pascalic.
	Roccano Fuluio.
16. The good fortune of Naples
17. The castle of Spaine.	Baccia Pisano.
18. The victory of the Popes.
19. The Piramis.	Marc-Antonio of Saint Vliana. [ 10]
20. The Christe of Venice.	Ieronimo Contareni.
21. The Saint Francis of Spaine.	Christofero Guasches.
22. The peace of the Popes.	Iacomo Antonio 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
23. The Pearle of Giouan Andrea Doria.	Giouan Baptista Spinola.
24. The wheele serpentine of Ve∣nice.	Gabriele Canali.
25. The Piramis of Venice.	Francesco Buono. [ 20]
26. The Palme of Venice.	Ieronimo Venieri.
27. The Admiral of Gyl. Andrada.	Bernardo Cinoguerra.
28. The Granado of Spaine.	Paulo Boteino.
29. The Admirall of Genoa.	Hector Spinola accompanied with the Prince of Parma.
30. The Admiral of Venice.	Sebastiano Venieri Admirall of the Venetian fleet.
31. The Galley Royal.	Don Iohn of Austria General. [ 30]
32. The Admirall of the great Commendador.
33. The Popes Admiral.	Marc-Antonio Colonna.
34. The Admiral of Sauoy.	The Lord Lieny accompanied with the Prince of Vrbin.
35. The Grifonia of the Popes.	Alessandro Negroni.
36. The St. Theodora of Venice.	Theodoro Balbi. [ 40]
37. The Mendoça of Naples.	Martino de Caide.
38. The mountaine of Cania.	Alessandro Vizamano.
39. The Saint Iohn Baptista of Venice.	Giouan Mocenigo.
40. The victory of Giouan An∣drea Doria.	Philippo Doria.
41. The Pisana of the Popes.	Hercole Lotta.
42. The Figuera of Spaine.	Diego Lopes de Diglia. [ 50]
43. The Christe of Venice.	Georgio Pisano.
44. The Saint Iohn of Venice.	Daniele Moro.
45. The Florence of the Popes.	Tomaso de Medici.

46. The George of Naples.	Eugenio de Vargas.
47. The Maister of Naples.	Francisco Benauides.
48. The Moone of Spaine.	Emanuele Aquilar.
49. The Passara of Venice.	Lodouico Pasqualigo
50. The Lyon of Venice.	Pietro Pisano.
51. The S. Ierome of Venice.	Gasparo Mari Pietro.
52. The Admirall of Grimaldi.	Georgio Grimaldi Admiral.
53. The Maister of Dauid Im∣periali.	Nicolo Lucano. [ 10]
54. The S. Christopher of Venice.	Alessandro Contareni.
55. The Iudith of Zant.	Marino Sicuro.
56. The Larmelina of Candy.	Pietro Gradonico.
57. The middle Moone of Ve∣nice.	Valerio Valeresso.
58. The Doria of Giouan Andrea Doria.	Iacomo Casali. [ 20]
59. The order of Saint Peter.	Santabio.
60. The order of Saint Iohn.	Lodouico Tessera.
61. The Admirall of Malta.	The Prior of Messina Admirall.

The Right wing.

Galleys.	Captaines. [ 30]
1. The Admirall of Sicill.	D. Iuan de Cardona Admirall.
2. The Piedmontan of Sauoy.	Octauio Moreto.
3. The Admirall of Nicola Doria.	Pandolpho Polidoro.
4. The Force of Venice.	Reniere Zeno.
5. The Queene of Candy.	Giouan Barbarico.
6. The Nino of Venice.	Paulo Polani. [ 40]
7. The Christ raised againe of Venice.	Benedetto Sorance.
8. The Armed mā of Retima.	Andrea Calergo.
9. The Eagle of Retima.	Andrea Calergo.
10. The Palme of Cania.	Iacomo Medio.
11. The Angel of Corfou.	Stellio Carchiopulo.
12. The Saint Ioannica Arbera.	Giouan de Domeni.
13. The Lady Frauica.	Lodouico Cypico. [ 50]
14. The ship of Venice.	Antonio Pasqualigo.
15. Our Lady of Candy.	Marco Fescarini.
16. The Christ of Crema.	Francesco Forneri.

17. The Saint Vittoria of Crema.	Euangelisto Zorlano.
18. The Maister of Grimaldi.	Lorenzo Trecchia.
19. The maister of Marini.	Antonio Cornili.
20. The Margaret of Sauoy.	Battaglino.
21. The Diana of Genoa.	Giouan Georgio Lasagna.
22. The Gingana of Naples.	Gabriele Medino.
23. The moone of Naples.	Iulio Rubbi.
24. The fortune of Naples.	Diego Madra•…•…. [ 10]
25. The hope of Naples.	Pietro Busto.
26. The Fury of Lomelina.	Iacomo Chiappio.
27. The Maister of Lomelina.	Georgio Greco.
28. The Negrona.	Nicolo Constano.
29. The bastard Negrona.	Lorenzo de Turri.
30. The fire of Candy.	Antonio Buono.
31. The Eagle of Candy.	Ieronimo Georgio.
32. The S. Christopher of Venice.	Andrea Trono [ 20]
33. The Christ of Venice.	Marco Antonio Lando.
34. The Hope of Candy.	Ieronimo Contareni.
35. The Royalty of Padua.	Patara Buzacarino.
36. The Saint Iosefica of Venice.	Francesco Oseda.
37. The Resolute of Naples.	Giouan Caraffa.
38. The Sicilia of Sicilia.	Francisco Amadea.
39. The Maister of Nicola Doria.	Iulio Centaurio.
40. The Eagle of Corfou.	Pietro Buono. [ 30]
41. The S. Trisonica of Catarra.	Ieronimo Bazanteo.
42. The Tower of Vincenza.	Lodouico de Portu.
43. The S. Mary of the Popes.	Pandolfo Strozzi Knight.
44. The S. Ioannica of the Popes.	Angelo Bifalio Knight.
45. The Maister of Nigroni.	Lodouico Gamba..
46. The Admirall of Nigroni.	Giouan Ambrofio Nigroni.
47. The Monarca of Iohn Andrew.	Nicolo Garibaldo.
48. The Hand-maide of Iohn An∣drew.	Nicolo Imperiali. [ 40]
49. The Admirall of Giouan Andrea.	Giouan Andrea Doria.

The Reseruation for succour, placed behind as a Garde, are these Captaines and Galleys. [ 50]

Galleys.	Captaines.
1. The Saint Ioannica of Sicily.
2. The Buccana.	Giouan Pietro Morilo.

3. The Leena of Naples.	Pietro de Lagia.
4. The Constancie of Naples.	Pietro de Lagia.
5. The Marchesa of Naples.	Iuan Machado.
6. The S. Barbera of Naples.	Iuan Ascaleo.
7. The S. Andrea of Naples.	Iuan Rufio de Valasques.
8. The S. Caterino of Naples.	Iuan Rufio de Valasques.
9. The S. Bartilmeo of Naples.
10. The S. Angelo of Naples.	Iuan de Ripe Melino. [ 10]
11. The Terrana of Naples.	Marco Molino.
12. The Christ of Venice.	Giouan Loredano.
13. The double hand of Venice.	Aluarez de Bassan Marquis de Sancta Cruz.
14. The Admirall of Naples.
15. The Faith of Venice.	Giouan Baptista Contareni.
16. The Pillar of Venice.	Catarina Mali Pietro
17. The Magdalen of Venice.	Lodouico Bulbi.
18. The Lady of Venice.	Giouan Bembo [ 20]
19. The Menidus of Venice.	Filippo Leo.
20. The Hope of Venice.	Giouan Baptista Benedetto.
21. Saint Peter of Venice.	Pietro Badoario
22. Saint George of Sabenica.	Christofero Lachico.
23. The Saint Michael of Venice.	Georgio Cochio.
24. The Sibilla of Venice.	Daniele Trono.
25. The Crane of Spaine.	Luigi de Hereda.
26. The Admiral of Vaschedo.	Vaschedo Coronado. [ 30]
27. The Suprana of the Popes.	Antonio de Ascoli.
28. The Occasion of Spaine.
29. The Maister of the Popes.
30. The faire wether of the Popes.

THe Generall descending (as hath beene said) into his Barge, passed thorow his fleet, taking a short but exact view of the forme of his battailes, and by breefe, but effectuall speech, breathed courage into his men. His Oration was to this purpose. [ 40]

Braue, inuincible spirits, whom gratious Heauen hath held worthy to bee hir* 2.1 Champions: to whom the Angels will not bee idle spectators, but actors and as∣sistants in this sacred Tragedy. Nature I know hath giuen you the strongest temper of valor, and Deuotion set so keene an edge on that temper, as I need not whet by any farther incouragement. Onely let mee tell you, you now haue faire occasion to vnsheath and vse it. Let Victory set such a glosse on it, as no rust of forgetfulnesse may euer eate out. Now bring this darke halfe Moone, which seeks to eclips the bright sunne of heauen, to such a waine as shall neuer fill againe. Let hir not any longer vsurpe domination of the Sea. Our enemies execed vs in num∣bers, made vp of cyphers and shadowes of men, but let vs excell them in resoluti∣on, [ 50] the essence of Soldiors. They are imprisoned and immured by shores and rocks, as much as I should say, victory cannot escape vs. They must fight because they cannot flye, wee because wee must ouer-come: Wee haue necessitie of con∣quest; the danger mixt with it, doth but season and ennoble it. Who would

triumph ouer woemen, Wee are to share the whole wealth of nature: the earth to the suruiuors, heauen to the martirs. Euen the scarres of the woun∣ded willbe beautifull because honorable, who would ingratefully refuse to bleed for that louing God which hath not refused to dye for him. Courage therefore diuine Champions, forget not that som of ye are Romains, and which is more all Christians.

This speech was euery where answered with applausiue and hopefull conclamati∣ons. In which resolution wee will leaue them a while, to view the countenance of the aduerse Nauy. The Turkes in the meane time vsed circumspection and prouidence nothing barbarous. For hauing intelligence by spies, fugitiues, and [ 10] prisoners not only of the conuention of the Confederate nauy, but their aproach beeing now in the Gulph of Lepanto, Mehemet Bey was dismissed with 60. Gal∣lies to Aspropicio a neighbor Citty to bring from thence competent supplies of victuall and men, in which businesse he vsed such celerity that in short time he re∣turned, bringing with him plenty of victuall and munition besides ten thousand Ianizaries two thousand ordinary soldiers and two thousand voluntaries, with which multitude and false supposition of our paucity they were not so cōfirmed, but that they stood possest of a certaine fatall ominous misdeeming the euent. In which respect the high Admirall Ali Bascha, though by his owne inclination and his maisters command he stood resolute to fight, called a Generall Councell [ 20] to deliberate so important a deseigne: Most of them perswaded to giue battaile, but Partau Bascha Generall of the land forces earnestly oppugned it, on the con∣trary part Hassan Bascha sonne to Barbarossa somtime Viceroy of Algier a young man yet of great spirit and worthy so noble a father whose magnanimity he see∣med to inherit, licensed to speake with braue countenance and apt gesture spake* 2.2 as followeth.

Most excelse and victorious Prince, the Turkish Nation hath euer so nobly be∣haued it selfe that it is a question whether their fortune hath bred their greatnesse or their valour commanded their fortune. Once it may be affirmed that if our starres haue fauored vs, wee haue not forsaken our selues, nor shamed them, but [ 30] magnified their influence by our actions. Our Predecessors haue left vs ample territory, wherein wee haue not been vnthrifts but haue so husbanded it that if they made little, much, wee haue extended much almost to infinite. So that if we hold on this course of victory, Alexander neuer stood more then wee, in need of new worlds: which if these prying inquisitiue Christians had not discouered to vs, our valour ere long would want work. Yet let vs not seeme so glutted and cloyed with conquest as to refuse to accept this one triumph more. This by Sea wilserue to counterpoize that other balance of land victories. Let vs fill both the hands of our Emperor, one with spoiles of the land, the other of the Sea. These feeble tired Christians haue been but our Porters. They are now ready to deliuer it. Let [ 40] not vs disdayne to take it of them least they couzen vs now, as they did my father about thirty yeares since, and ran away with their burthen. Wee haue Gallies e∣nough not only to stowe their wealth, but if need were their Gallies. There∣fore most inuincible Admiral let vs preuent their flight by speedy assault.

This speech vttered by a man whose performance had euer heeretofore beene correspondent to so confident a perswasion, not only encouraged but inflamed many of the hearers, whereof Vluzzali Generall of the forces of Barbary could not containe him-selfe, but with many earnest and pregnant arguments aue•…•…r'd the same: alleaging besides the opportunity, the necessity of obtaining the great Lords command. Caiabeg the Sanzach of Smitna ecchoed Vluzzali. [ 50]

Yet many the grauer and aduiseder Captaines dissented from this more hotte then deliberate determination, especially Mehemet Bey the Sanzach of Negro∣pont which if not eloquently, yet truly demonstrated the danger of fight as fol∣loweth.

I am sorry (magnificent Alli) that at this time the Councell of Illustrious* 2.3 Hassan, is rather to bee admired and applauded for greatnesse, then followed for soundnesse, fitter to set our tongues on worke then hands: I meane to bee answered then executed. It is most true, in raysing the Ottoman Empire, that the Turkish valour hath euer guided their fortune: but as true, their wisdome hath directed their valour, else had they neuer created this world of their great∣nesse out of nothing, or made it of Attomes and so slender principles. They haue not by poasting to the end of their desires lamed or tyred the meanes that carried them, but by going softlier, haue gone farther. Greatnesse is steepe and high, not to bee ascended but by leysure. Those that striue to rise violently fall [ 10] precipitately. Such was the suddaine floud and ebbe of the Goths, such the in∣undation of Tamberlan. One Kingdome is a sufficient croppe for one yeare. After that rate wee may soone begger Christendome, and perfect the Turkish Monarchie. As wee haue wonne Cyprus, and may keepe it, so wee may lose both that and ourselues too, in seeking to get more. If you conceiue the Chri∣stian•…•… haue come so farre, but with resolution to fight, or to fight, but with pro∣babillity of preuayling, you must thinke them either fooles or cowards. But if after so familiar and long hostillity, ouer-vallewing our selues, hinder vs not to know them, wee must needs confesse their swords and wits as sharpe as ours. Not their Pusillanimity, but diuision hath ruined them; and our multitudes rather [ 20] wearied then conquered them. From Preueza themselues departed, not wee draue them: at least the shame of flying then, will excite them to fight now. Our oddes of strength is vncertaine. If they bee the weaker, supplyes may strengthen them. If wee the stronger, many accidents may weaken vs, but none strengthen. Therefore my councell is, that wee go home while our way is open, and wee haue our welcome in our hands, and not let hope defraude vs of cer∣teinty. Yet is mineopinion opinion euer subiect to your correction.

This speech was highly approoued of Partau Bascha, Siroch, and Carabey. Yet fate, and their Emperors expresse command, vrged publickly by Vluzzali, so farre carried them against their owne iudgements, that they resolued not onely to ha∣zard [ 30] battaile, but seeke it. To this end hauing distributed those foureteene thou∣sand soldiers where they found most need, They weyed anchor, and came to Galanga, about the euening the seuenth of October, and there stayed. There supplying their Galleys and themselues, with whatsoeuer was requisite for the incounter. Now drawing neere, the Admirall neglected nought that tended to the augmentation of the strength, or ostentation of the brauery of his Galleys and men. One principall care was, the fastning of his slaues, least their bodies his, but mindes his enemies, might insteed of necessary instruments, be conuerted to dangerous bosome aduersaries: knowing that desire of liberty and reuenge, two violent appetires, would make them apt to snatch at any opportunity. Hee [ 40] caused their allowance of dyet to bee augmented, so cherishing their bodies, that they might bee apt for labour, and mixed hope of future lenity, with feare of present punishment, that stubburnnesse, a thing inuincible in the obdurate minds of slaues, might not hinder the vtmost extent of their strength. Hee likewise keep∣ing good aduises at sea, to preuent suddaine inuasions, drew foorth his fleete into order of battaile, that both his men and Galleys, when need required, might not bee to learne their duty or order: which hee neglected not continually to prac∣tise, as hee approched the Christian fleete, till hee had brought them to perfec∣tion therein.

The eight of October very early in the morning, hoping vnexpectedly to haue [ 50] come vpon the Christian fleete as they were at anchor, they hoysted their sayles halfe mast high, so to hinder their discouery, and with a gentle gale sailed towards Cephalonia. Both fleetes were within twelue mile of one an other, yet vnde∣scried, by reason of certaine points and head-lands diuiding and shadowing them.

They first kend the Christian Nauy cleere of the Cruzulares, which had some∣what disordered them. And seeing Andrea Doria stand to sea-ward, vainely imagi∣ned hee had fled, as vpon the like reason the Christians were deluded with the like conceit of them, which opinion as it begat contempt of the aduerse part, so it bred confidence in themselues. The place where the fleetes met, serued aptly to fight, but not to flie. The Gulph beeing in circuit not aboue two hundred and fifty miles, immured with rocks, shores, and Islands so thick, that to flie, threatned well nigh as much danger as to stay. On the North, they were shut in by part of Albania, extending from Saint Maura to Lepanto foure score miles. On the East they were embarred by Morea stretching seauenty miles from the mouth of the [ 10] Gulph to Cape Tornezzo. On the south the Isle of Zant opposed it selfe. 25. miles in length. the west was closed vp by Cephalonia and Saint Maura, the one beeing, 40. the other 15. miles long on that coast. On the coast of Albania, scarse a mile from the maine, were the Rocks Cruzalares of an equall bignesse, but the lesse the more dangerous. Heere againe the Christian fleet before con∣cealed by interposition of headlands bewrayed truly hir owne greatnesse, which though inferior to the Turkes, yet exceeding their expectation did some-what shake their former resolution: yet hope, shame, and which was more then both, necessity, spurring them forwards, they approached in forme following.

They diuided their fleete which consisted of two hundred and seauenty ves∣sels, [ 20] * 2.4 Galleys, Galeots and Foists, into foure battailes, correspondent to that of the Christians. In the middle battaile was the high Admirall Ali Bascha, and therein were conteyned foure score and ten Galleys, in the middest of whom, in a ritch and well fortisied Galley was he himselfe, flanqued on the right side with Partau Bascha, and on the left with the Treasurer of the Nauy, who were likewise assisted each of them by three Admirals. The right wing consisted of fiftie Galleys, where of Mehemet Siroch had the charge. The left wing included ninetie Gal∣leys, conducted by Vluzzali. The Reseruation for supplies was a mixture of ten Galleys and twenty Foists, commanded by Amurat Dragut Rais. Hee himselfe in a beautifull and well armed Galley, sometime Admirall of Constantinople. [ 30] Their maine battaile was opposite to ours. Their right wing to our left, and their left to our right wing. Euery battaile distinguished by different Flagges, very curiously and richely wrought. Euery priuate Galley adorned with Pen∣dants and Enseignes of great worth, and beauty, which serued rather to breed appetite in the couragious and greedy Christians, then feare: Tht Galeasses they did rather wonder at for hugenesse of Bulke, then doubt for offence or dan∣ger in seruice, thinking them fitter for burthen then fight, wherein notwith∣like the horse of the Greekes lay buried their greatest mischeefe: neither could they yet entertaine an assurance that their aduerse fleet would assaile them, being (as I may say) affraid not to hope. Yet did not this distraction make them ne∣glect [ 40] all possible meanes of their owne safety or enemies harme. All vnnecessa∣ry things they stowed in hold, all needfull they brought vp on the hatches, as powder, shotte, Pikes, arrowes, aud all offensiue or defensiue prouision. Euery Captaine incouraged his souldiers, euery soldier his fellow; and custome of vic∣tory kept out all conceipt of beeing ouercome; each one cherishing in himselfe the remembrance of the Christians flight at Preueze: vicinity of place bringing it to their apprehension. The very wind seemed to whisper in their eare secret ar∣gument of preuailing, to which their credulitie harkened. But soone was that Argument confuted, when the winde which till now had beene partiall to them, became a newtrall to both, and a flat calme giuing as it were attention to the [ 50] voyce of the Cannon. And not onely the winde, but the Sunne seemed now to bandie against them, for hauing with too much light blinded the Christian Nauy, at the instant of ioyning battaile, remooued that preiudice to the Turkes.

And not onely the winde but the Sunne seemed now to bandy against them, for hauing with too much light blinded the Christian Nauy, at the instant of ioyning battaile, remooued that preiudice to the Turkes. And the winde as if awakened, and come to doe seruice to the God who made it, breathed a gentle gale from the West, which aptly serued to carry the mists of the water and smoake of the Ord∣nance vpon the Turks, whose battailes conteined these particular Captaines with their Galleys.

The Turkes diuided their fleete [ 10] into foure Battailons.

The right wing.

• 1. The first was the Admirall of Mehemet Siroch Gouernor of Alexandria.
• 2. The second Galley of Alexandria, was gouerned by Caras Tubat. [ 20]
• ...
  All these had Galleys of Alexandria.
  • 3. Bagly Saraf.
  • 4. Giafer Chiagey.
  • 5. Osmanan Celebin.
  • 6. Pe•…•…usio Reis.
  • 7. Bink Cusapogli.
  • 8. Osman Occan.
  • 9. Driuis Aga. [ 30]
  • 10. Baiazet Siman,
  • 11. Osman Ali.
  • 12. Deli Aga.
  • 13. Dardagan Bardanbely,
  • 14. Casli Cuian.
  • 15. Iufuf Aga.
  • 16. Iusuf Magar.
  • 17. Calafact Cheder. [ 40]
  • 18 Mustafa Genouell,
  • 19. Dermigy Pery.
  • 20. Mat Assan.
• 21. Cheder Aga.
• 22. Soliman Bey.
• 23. Hibraim.
• ...
  Their Galleys were of Co•…•…∣stantinople.
  • 24. Saban.
  • 25. Caiacelebin, [ 50]
  • 26. Cheder Siman.
  • 27. The Sonne of Cara Mustafa.

• ...
  Their Galleys were of Tripoli in Barbary.
  • 28. Iuran Saba.
  • 29. Dauid Iusuf,
  • 30. Solac Rais.
  • 31. Arnaut Ferrat.
  • 32. Iuzel Memy.
• 33. Schender Selim,
• 34. Lumag Iusuf.
• 35. Bardach Celebni, [ 10]
• 36. Bagdat Asau.
• 37. Guzel Allibi.
• 38. Brusali Piry.
• 39. Rodle Ali.
• 40. Aga Bascha with the Admirall of Constantinople,
• ...
  These commanded ouer Galleys of Despotado, in old time Aetolia.
  • 41. Sinaman Mustafa.
  • 42. Giegiore Ali, [ 20]
  • 43. Amurates Reis,
  • 44. Calepi Memy.
  • 45. Marul Mustafa.
  • 46. Heder Lumet,
  • 47. Sinaman Deruis,
  • 48. Meminey Durmis.
  • 49. Algagias Sinan,
  • 50. Adagi Rustan,
  • 51. Chingeuey Musata, [ 30]
  • 52. Iusuf Celebni,
  • 53. Tufer Mustafa.
• 54. Ali a Genowese and Pyrate Captaine of small Galleys.
• 55. Megil Reis with a small Galeasse,
• 56. Mehemet Bey, with the Admirall Galley of Negroponto.

The Battaile had these Captaines and Galleys. [ 40]

• ...
  With Galleys of Rhôdes.
  • 1. Assam Bey the Gouernor of Rhodes,
  • 2. Deli Chiafer the warden of Rhodes,
  • 3. Occi Rais,
  • 4. Postunag Ogli,
  • 5. Calefact Ogli,
  • 6. Gazizy Reis,
  • 7. Dromus Reis with an Admirall Galley of Constantinople: [ 50]
  • 8. Herbercy,
  • 9. Caragias Rais,
• ...

• 10. Ocean Rais,
• 11. Deli Piry,
• ...
  with Galleys of Constantinople.
  • 12 Giafer Aga.
  • 13. Bachian Rais,
  • 14. Coz Ali,
  • 15. Colach Rais,
  • 16. Oluz Rais.
  • 17. Assan Bassa, sonne to Barbarossa. [ 10]
  Their Galleys were of Naples in Romagnia.
  • 18. Caruf Rais.
  • 19. Alman Rais,
  • 20. Gungli Ogli,
  • 21. Arnaut Celebin,
  • 22. Magar Ali,
  • 23. Giafer Celebni,
  • 24. Deli Celebni, [ 20]
  • 25. Deli Assan.
  • 26. Caraperi Aga.
  • 27. Sinan Rais
  • 28. Carau Mustafa.
  • 29. Sali Arauar.
  • 30. Preuil Aga captaine of Naples in Albania. [ 30]
  with Galleys of Mittilene.
  • 31. Balahzi Ogli.
  • 32. Bararzi Mustafa.
  • 33. Sinan Baly,
  • 34. Agdadi Rais.
• 35. Two sonnes of Ali, in a Galley of Constantinople.
• 36. Osman Rais in an Admirall of Constantinople.
• ...
  with Galleys of Mitilene.
  • 37. Deli Iusuf
  • 38. Ferat Baly, [ 40]
  • 39. Cuiacelebin.
  • 40. Bagdar Rais.
  • 41. Haluagi Mustafa.
• 42. Giaur Alli Mustafa, Admirall of small Galleys.
• 43. Caracoza with Galleys of Valona.
• 44. Mamatre Saderbey Gouernor of Mittilene.
• 45. Aly Bascha high Admirall of the fleet, in a Galley Royall. [ 50]
• 46. Portau Bassa, generall by land with an Admirall Galley.
• 47. Mustafa Esdey Treasurer,
• 48. Marmari Rais.
• ...

• 49. Alcicgoli,
• 50. Caras Deli.
• 51. Ferat Ceragli.
• 52, Tramontan Rais, with an Admirall of Constantinople,
• ...
  with Galleys of Constantinople.
  • 53. Sulimun Celebni.
  • 54. Deli Ibraim.
  • 55. Murat Corossaa,
  • 56. Denur Bali, [ 10]
  • 57. Caby Heit,
  • 58. Murrat Trasy Scribe of the Arsenall,
  • 59. Peruis Sinam,
  • 60. Dardagan Bali,
  • 61. Giafer Caran,
  • 62. Deruis Sach.
• 63. Curbaly. [ 20]
• 64. Giafer Aga, the captaine of Tripoliin Barbary,
• ...
  These Galleys were of Tripoli,
  • 65. Carau Hamat,
  • 66. Rustan Cialmagi,
  • 67. Durmis Ogli,
  • 68. Schender Dernigi,
  • 69. Maumet Alis.
  These Galleys were of Calipolis.
  • 70. Afis Cluega Gouernor of Callipolis, [ 30]
  • 71. Selim Siach,
  • 72. Heder Baschi,
  • 73. Sicun Mustafa,
  • 74. Salu Rius,
  • 75. Dely Ischender,
• 76. The Lord of Marue with an Admirall Galley of Constantinople.
• ...
  Their Galleys also were of Callipolis,
  • 77. Peruis Lahumagi, [ 40]
  • 78. Hasuf Bali,
  • 79, Siran Bardachi,
  • 80. Iusuf Cinigi,
• 81. Piri Begogli, with an Admirall Galley of Constantinople.
• ...
  with Galleys of Constantinople:
  • 82. Deli Osmun,
  • 83. Piry Sinan,
  • 84. Demir Celebni,
  • 85. Deruis Hidir, [ 50]
  • 86. Sinan Mustafa,
  • 87. Hasirgy Rais.
  • ...

• ...
  • 88. Ascy Ogli.
  • 89. Caias Saraf,
  • 90. Agadi Ahameth,
  • 91. Osman Sehet.
  • 92. Deruis Celebin,
  • 93. Giafer Rais,
  • 94. Dardagan the Gouer∣nor of the Arsenall. [ 10]

The left wing.

• 1. The first was an Admirall, whereof was Captaine Carau Hozias,
• ...
  With Galleys of Natolia.
  • 2. Catalus a Pirate,
  • 3. Chiazell Sinam.
  • 4. Chior Mehemet.
  • 5. Hignau Mustafa. [ 20]
  • 6. Cademly Mustapha,
  • 7. Vschiufli Memy.
  • 8. Carau Morat.
  • 9. Passa Deruis,
  • 10. Iagli Osman.
  • 11. Pisman Rais.
  • 12. Tasciuis Sisman.
  • 13. Iesil Hogli. [ 30]
• 14. Cara Cialibina, Captaine of small Galleys.
• ...
  They had small Galleys, and did obey Cara Cialibin,
  • 15. Suizi Memy.
  • 16. Magli Rais.
  • 17 Osey Assan.
  • 18. Cumigi Hasuf.
  These two had Galleys of Constantinople▪
  • 19. Cadeh Sidir,
  • 20. Osman Rais,
• 21. Caraperi a Pirate, and also Captaine of small Galleys. [ 40]
• ...
  These had small Galleys, and were com∣manded by Caraperi their Captaine,
  • 22. Iulio Peruis,
  • 23. Calobodan Soliman,
  • 24. Iachuli Mamat,
  • 25. Sayr Giafer,
  • 26. Chior Memy,
• 27. Chiusuel Giafer, with a Galley of Constantinople,
• 28. Ramazzan,
• 19. Calemy Memi, [ 50]
• 30. Giesman Ferrat,
• 31. Hiupris Assan,
• 32. Zambal Murat.
• ...

• 33. Sarmasach Rais,
• 34. Tunis Suliman,
• 35. Calepi Iusuf.
• 36. Techedel Assan.
• 37. Cyan Memij.
• 38. Osman Bagli,
• 39. Caragial with the Admirall Galley of Algeirs. [ 10]
• 40. Caraman Ali.
• 41. Alman.
• 42. Sinam Celebni.
• 43. Agdagi Mustafa.
• 44. Daglias Ali,
• 45. Seith.
• 46. Perius Selmi.
• ...
  These had small and also some common Galleys of Algier.
  • 47. Murat Deruis, [ 20]
  • 48. Hes Ogli.
  • 49. Machazer Ali.
  • 50. Ioias Osman.
  • 51. Sali Deli.
• 52. Nasut Fachir, with a Galley of Constantinople.
• ...
  Their Galleys were of Negroponto.
  • 53. Gymongy Mustafa.
  • 54. Rustan Cinigi,
  • 55. Bali. [ 30]
  • 56. Dauid Ali.
  • 57. Sit•…•…au Rais.
  • 58. Carum Hidir.
  • 59. Magar Ferrat,
  • 60. Arnaut Alis,
  • 61. Natis Rais,
  • 62. Curmur Rhodo,
  • 63. Cos Cluagin, [ 40]
  • 64. Clusly Memi.
• 65. Caram Bey with the Admirall of the sonnes of Vluzzali.
• ...
  They had small Galleys of Valona.
  • 66. Deli Murar,
  • 67. Abazar Rais,
  • 68. Scin Schiander.
  • 69. Alman Balli,
  • 70. Assan Suumbar,
  • 71. Seit Aga, [ 50]
  • 72. Assan Sinam,
  • 73. Cumy Falagan,
  • 74. Osman Gynder.

• ...
  Their Gallies were of Suriasaro.
  • 75. Dermar Bey.
  • 76. Iusuf Alis.
  • 77. Caran Alman.
  • 78. Murat Biassan.
  • 79. Carabiney gouernor of Suriasaro.
• 80. Calau Bastagi. [ 10]
• 81. Carabi.
• 82. Giafer Hedi.
• 83. Ferrat.
• ...
  These Gallies were of Constantinople.
  • 84. Memy Beogli.
  • 85. Osman Piry.
  • 86. Piry Rais.
  These Gallies were of Constan∣tinople.
  • 87. Casam Rais.
  • 88. Talatagi Rais. [ 20]
  • 89. Rus Celebin.
  • 90. Tutur Ali.
• 91. Vluzzali King of Algier with an Admirall Galley.

The Battaile of Succors.

• 1. Was an Admirall Galley of Constantinople gouerned by Amurat Dragat Rais. [ 30]
• ...
  These were Fusts.
  • 2. Caram Casli.
  • 3. Hassam Rais.
• 4. Abdula Reis, and that was a little Galley.
• ...
  These were also Foists.
  • 5. Aligau Assan.
  • 6. Cus Ali.
  • 7. Ginzel Ali.
  • 8. Curtat Celebin.
• 9. Deley Bey. [ 40]
• 10. Saudagi Memi, this was also a Foist.
• 11. Dardagno Reis, and he had an Admirall of Constantinople.
• 12. Deli Dorni, and he had a Galley.
• 13. Cuidar Memi the Gouernor of the Isle of Scio.
• 14. Shetagi Osman.
• ...
  These had Foists.
  • 15. Haeder.
  • 16. Delius Heder.
  • 17. Armat Merny. [ 50]
  • 18. Susan Reis.
  • 19. Gyafer Bey.
• 20. Cabil Sinam, his was a Foist.
• ...

• ...
  These were Foists.
  • 21. Amurat Reis.
  • 22. Sariogi Grafer
  • 33. Mor Ali.
• 24. Piali Murat and this was a small Galley.
• ...
  These were Foists.
  • 25. Caragiali Rais.
  • 26. Murat Alias.
  • 27. Iumez Alias. [ 10]
  • 28. Assan Sinan a Galley of Constantinople.
  • 29. Bostagi Murat a Foist.
  • 30. Deli Suliman, this was an Admirall Galley of Constantinople.

All things thus disposed of, Ali Basha, ritchly cloathed and armed after the Turkish manner, in the poope of his Galley, thus spake to the Captaines and Commanders of the nauy there assembled to receiue direction.

MOst Heroick Captaines, and Inuincible Ianizars, the scourge of the Christi∣an,* 3.1 and right hand of the Ottoman Empire, we haue here to fore taken pains [ 20] to fetch our slaues, our enemies haue now brought them vs. Despayring their successe on land, they are come to try the same fate in an other element, as if there were important difference to burne on shoare, or drowne at sea. They haue changed place but not spirit. The same effeminacy which they had in other parts they haue transported hither, constant only in their vices and vanities. Mag∣nanimity and the effect, Honor, are not more inherent or hereditary to vs, then cowardize and seruility to them. We much exceed them in number, but more in weight of sufficiency: we were souldiers euen when children, they children now they are men. What are their souldiers but players, minstrels and tum∣blers, a multitude of vngelt Eunuches? what is their Generall but a youth, fitter [ 30] to leade a maske then an army? what are both but the remainder of this yeeres victory, whereof Cyprus was the late ritch earnest? neither can they so soone forget to yeeld, nor we to ouercome. Therefore be confident braue fellowes in armes, that not resolution but their destiny hath brought them hither. Italy is the gate of Christendome, and Venice the key of Italy, This fleet is that Barre which if we can either breake or put backe, all flies open, and we shall goe be∣yond Caesar in the VVest, Alexander in the East, making the rising and setting of the Sunne the confines of the Turkish Empire. Come on them, let vs fill the sea with their bodies, our Gallies with their wealth, our selues with honor and felicity of both.

[ 40]

The Christians hauing in all respects prouided for so great an attempt, as* 3.2 farre as humaine wisdome or strength extended, considering this fleet to be their Arke, God himselfe being interessed in the controuersie, ceased not with hum∣ble but importunate inuocation to implore the aide of Heauen, which by their Priests and Churchmen was confidently promised, Their deuotions concluded, and both battailes now facing each other, the charge sounded by a cannon from Ali the Turkish Admirall, & answered by one from each wing, with barbarous cla∣mors, after their custome, which they thinke awakens the courage of their owne, and amazeth and terrifieth their enemies, swiftly made towards the Christian fleet, [ 50] who in a contary manner made trumpets, drums, fifes and other such martial mu∣sick the delightful Prologue to a more dreadful scaene. Venieri back't his Galley with two other of Giouan Loretano and Catarini Malipietro. Colonna did the like with two other.

And now being within distance of their ordnance, the Turkes passing by the Ga∣leasses were vnexpectedly torne by their great shot, which brake forth on all sides like thunder and lightning out of some darke cloud: they being high and close, infinitely spoyled the naked Turkes and Rowers, and made as it were that breach at which the Christian fleet entred. For it disordered them then when they had no time to reforme themselues. In which confusion yet desperatly passing the Galeasses, they ranne vpon a sharper point of danger. For the winde resisting the swiftnesse of their approch, staied and set them vp as dead markes to the Chri∣stian ordnance, which had more certaine ayme at them lying still, then in motion and course. Besides, it did benight them with smoake, augmenting the terror of those inuisible mischiefes which they felt, but could not see to shun or reueng. [ 10] The horrible noize of some commanding, others answering, the crack of Gallies, foule of each other, terrified both the Turkes which suffered, and Christians which but heard it; victory appering to them in a dreadfull countenance. In some Gal∣lies, the officers slaine, the slaues brake lose and like Lyons slaughtered their kee∣pers. In others, the powder taking fire casually, seemed to rebell against them too; shooting their bodies vp in the ayre as sacrifizes to that Christ whom they blas∣phemed. Here men fallne ouer-boord wanted Gallies, heere Gallies emptied of their companies, wanted men, and floted like dead bodies without soule, which Mehemet Siroch, now finding himselfe a truer Prophet then he desired, obseruing, with-drew himselfe from the body of the fleete thinking to circumuent the Chri∣stian [ 20] left wing: betwixt whom and Syroch, Augustino Barbarico interposed his squadron, wherewith he shut vp his passage, the easlier by reason of a Promontary called Mahanguli extending it selfe on that part. Marino Contareni resolute to be a sharer with his vncle Barbarico both in honour and danger, followed and vni∣ted himselfe to that squadron, betwixt whom a cruell fight was maintained on both sides. The Turkish left wing commanded by Vluzzali, and confronting our right was very neere to haue ioyned with Doria, who considering himselfe in∣ferior in number of Gallies (he hauing but fifty, his enemy ninty) vrged it not. Vluzzali balancing with the fortune of the Christian his owne oddes of strength, [ 30] was contented likewise to absteine. Doria after some suspence stood out to sea∣ward with certaine of his Gallies a mile from the remainder.

In the meane time, Don Iohn, Colonna and Venieri the confederate Admirals in exact order incountred the middle battaile of the enemy, exchanging in the approach three or foure vollies of great shot, with much disaduantage to the Turkes. The Christian vessels being snugge and stooping from the ordnance of the Turkes higher Gallies, and many of their peeces choaked with Christians bullets casually shot into their mouthes and there sticking. Which difficulties bred rather fury then despaire in them, and induced them with violence of oares to make hast to grapple, that there fighting hand to hand, the difference might [ 40] be decided by pure valour. And beeing now come neerer, swarmes of arrowes and small shot enterchangeably stung both sides, and artificiall fiers reciprocally lightned euery where. At last boording, death and wounds, drest variously, were the entertainment of that hostile and vnwelcome visitation. Whence sprung such a deluge of bloud that this might haue beene more properly called the red sea. Now Siroch perceiuing himselfe not only frustrated by interposition of Barbaricos squadron, but distressed by the vnresistable force of it, persisted in fight, to saue his honor though not life, vsing his vtmost incouragements to reuiue the languishing hope of his men, wherein by speech, but more by example, he so farre preuailed, that desperation supplying the want of resolution, they had now reco∣uered, [ 50] not onely hope of resistance, but victory: For after doubtfull and vn∣equall conflict in many parts, here number oppressing valor, there valor coun∣terpoizing the ods of number, especially in the Gallies of Barbarico and Ciconta; Barbarico whilest with inuincible courage he still ran to the weakest part, like the

vitall spirits in the body, was vnfortunately and mortally wounded by a fatall Turkish arrow in the left eye, himselfe being in deed not onely the eye but the very heart of his squadron. He falling downe, gaue demonstration that the life bloud of an army runnes in the veines of the Commander. His owne men shrunke back, the Turkes intruded and prest in his Galley, which had beene then taken, but that Frederico Nani and Siluio Porcia came in to her reskew. These heroick gentlemen growing vp like Hidraes heads in the roome of Barbarico, repeld the Turkes and recouered the former hope of victory. Porcia receiued a wound in his thigh, the honorable badge of his valor.

In an other part, Ciconia opprest with multitude of Turkish Gallies, was as I [ 10] may say refined with wild fire, and his face beautified with an eminent skar, but was at last preserued by speedy supplies, being so farre from yeelding either to weari∣nesse or torment, that after this he boorded and tooke a principall Galley, and one of their Imperiall Enseigns; which in the Venetian armory serues now to dis∣play the inuincible courage of the taker. But Siroch inuironed with danger and mischiefe on all sides, hauing no meanes to satisfie his desire of reuenge on al, des∣peratly ranne vpon Giouan Contareni (whose kinsman was before not idely slaine) with such violence, that he had almost stem'd his Galley; which he obstinatly per∣seuering to boord, was there mortally wounded; as before in iudgement, so now in valor hauing manifested himselfe a compleate and absolute souldier. He falling, [ 20] bred like amazement with the Turkes, as the fate of Barbarico had with the Chri∣stians: his men slaine, wounded and dismaied left their decks naked to their thronging enemies, who rushing in, were like to haue made the Galley a com∣mon sepulchre to both; For shee, being shot betweene winde and water was now ready to sinke. The Turkes leaped ouer-boord, hoping by swimming to finde the land more mercifull to them then the water. Siroch was taken, not quite dead, but his wounds serched, and found incurable, in pitty, not cruelty he was dispatch't. His death, though it were deerely bought, was a mortall wound to the Turkes whole Nauy. For those that were before busied with his incounter, this right wing, or arme, now cut off, conuerted their forces, though much enfeebled, against other [ 30] members of the fleet, assisting where they saw need and had opportunity. Besides, the battaile of succors continually supplied and releeued impartially all parts distrest.

Now the two Generals, Don Iohn and Ali Basha meeting like two furious Currents, began so cruell a fight in the middest of both fleets that the rest seemed but spectators to them two. The Gallies incircling them were the Theater, these two the Stage. Contrariety of Religion, emulation of honor, anger, hope, and feare producing admirable effects in both. While the Basha made violent im∣pression on the prow of Don Iohns Galley, she by others was likely to haue beene entred on the poope, which seene was preuented by those that back't her, who [ 40] boording these boorders tooke their Gallies, but with great slaughter and difficul∣ty. The Turkish Admirall knowing the fortune of the day to depend vpon his suc∣cesse, desperatly contended to inforce Don Iohn, wherein he so farre preuailed, that he compelled him to bring out of hold his fresh reseruations, to exchange place with his wounded and wearied men vpon the hatches, which strange and vn∣expected supply as it were new borne out of the wombe of the Galley to defend their mother, bred amazement, and by amazement hastned the destruction of the fainting Turkes. The Basha shot in the head, his Galley soone yeelded; himselfe be∣ing yet aliue presented to D. Iohn, had his head strooke off, which, mounted on the point of a pike, he held vp in publike demonstration of victory, a gratefull obiect [ 50] to the Christians, but dreadfull to the Turkes. The same cause bringing forth at once most contrary effects, extremity of hope and feare, which yet lesse dismaied them, not discerning it a far off, then the aduancement of the Crosse royall in the top of their Admirall Galley. That was seene throughout the fleet, and the fatall

signification easily interpreted. Now they all fly, but so confusedly, that while they shun the pursuite of one Galley, they fal foule vpon an other. Besides, Mar∣co Quirini and Antonio Canali intercepted many of the Gallies flying, and men swimming to the shoare. In this memorable fight many notable captaines on ei∣ther side were taken and slaine, whose distinct Catalogue ensues at the end of the battaile, not yet absolutely ended. For Vluzzali foreseeing now to late this gene∣rall ouerthrow, studied how he might in some measure reueng what he could not preuent; therefore houering alooffe from the fleet to expect some straglers of the Christian Nauy, at last found opportunity to cut off certaine Venetian Gallies which at first had followed Doria, but now desirous to haue beene sharers in so no∣ble [ 10] a victory, were retyring to the maine battaile: them he chased, fetched vp and boorded, yet they brauely repelling him, and Doria wheeling about to assaile him abaft, knowing it dangerous for him to perseuer in fight where his owne force would continually decrease, and his Aduersaries be augmented, by confluence of reskew from all parts of the army, executing his most mischiefe vpon those Ve∣netians, he with saile and oares stood off to sea, towing after him the Gallies of Pietro Bua of Corfou, of the Prior of Messina, and Lodouico Cipico of Trahù, Bene∣detto Soranza, mortally wounded and oppressed by multitude, fighting valliantly to the last was slaine, and his Galley taken. But so, that such getting in conclusi∣on proued their losse. For many of the enemies thronging into the Galley, either [ 20] by casualty or desperate malice of some captaine, she fired, and they perished in a wretched mixture of death, burning, and drowning. It seemed that the fury of the slaughtered Turkes suruiued and was vnited in Vluzzali, who alone gaue all three battailes some taste of his diuilish rage. Notwithstanding, all those Gallies which he had taken, were recouered, but that of Petro Bua of Corfoù, in whose purchase he had a very hard bargaine. The night was his best protection, which shaddowed him from the pursuing Christians. Who now despayring to fetch him vp, whom they could not see to follow, gaue ouer the chase and stood back to the fleet, and Vluzzali escaped with about thirty Gallies. Many which could not swim being aliue, as if death had taught them that skill, floted being dead. And the sea glutted [ 30] with multitudes swallowed, spued their carkases vp againe. Many laboring in the water for life, found now more safety in their wracks then before in their Gallies, and sometimes a Turke and Christian, laying hold of one planke, began a priuate fight, while a third tooke benifit of what they stroue for; the sea in the meane time proouing victor of both. Here a tired Christian calls to his friend for helpe, here a Turke implores it of his enemy. Lamentable and confused cries come from both, when now the billowes begin to roare louder then all. For the nauy was yet scarce collected and reduced to a safe Hauen, towards night, when there arose so sodaine and violent a storme, as if the battaile had not now beene ended would haue beene a cruell stickler in it. [ 40]

To conclude, the insolent enemies being thus ouer-throwne, and their spoile gathered▪ the next care was to cure the wounded men and repaire the brused and torne vessels. Wherein the Commanders testified no lesse industry then in prepa∣ration for the fight, and valor in it. It is hard to resolue which of the three Admi∣rals D. Iohn, Venieri, or Colonna merited most applause, they all did what could not be exceeded by any other, nor equalled but by themselues. The former distast twixt Don Iohn and Venieri, as it had beene prouidently pacified by mediation of Colonna, so was it in the conquest nobly forgotten of themselues, D. Iohn toward the beginning of the battaile being endangered by inequallity of number, Venteri with his owne danger brauely reskewed, like two fierce mastiues iarring betweene [ 50] themselues, when the Beare comes, forget priuate strife to assaile the common e∣nemy, which noble curtezy the Generall gratefully and publikly acknowledged, honoring him with the title of father, and which was more, father of the victory. The whole army in vnited voice gratified the diuine mercy for so great preserua∣tion,

and eleuating their victorious hands to heauen, acknowledged them to bee strenthened by it. Euery man congratulated the safety of his liuing friend, yet moderatly lamented the fate of those dead, the sorrow of their death being dried vp with ioy of the cause. Those bodies which were recouered were honorably bu∣ried: the rest detained by the sea, were yet eternized on the shoare. To repeate the noble actions of euery particular man were a labour worthy Plutarke, euery life would be an history. But amongst the most eminent shines the noble indiffe∣rency of the Marquis de Sancta Cruz, who disposing of the reseruation of succors distributed them not by his owne affection but other mens necessities, bewraying at once excellency of iudgement, courage and celerity. [ 10]

Many circumstances gaue luster to this victory, but nothing more then the flight of the Christian fleet not many yeeres before from the same place, the infa∣my of the one glorifying the other and seruing as a foile to it, as shaddowes set forth and enlighten any bright picture. It was a pleasing consideration to those who had beene in that fugitiue nauy to thinke that after so many yeeres they should finde their honor where they lost it. To this they added remembrance of the like battaile betweene Augustus Caesar and Marc-Antony many hundred yeers before fought in the same place, as if destiny had made it a stage for great actions, and this battaile had beene but the second part of the first.

The totall number of the dead in the Christian army were 7656. others say [ 20] 7566 the chiefe of the Venetians were Augustino Barbarico Prouidator Generall of the Venetians fleet, Benedetto Soranza, Marin and Ieronimo Contareni, Marco∣Antonio La•…•…de, Francesco Bicono, Iacomo de Messa, Caterin Maripietro, Giouan Lo∣redano, Vincento Quirini, Andrea and Georgio Barbarici all of the degree of Sena∣tors. Of Romans, Horacio Caraffa, Ferrante Bisballo, Virginio & Horacio of the no∣ble family of Vrsini in Rome. Of the Spaniards, Iuan and Bernardino de Cardona, of the knights of Malta were many slaine, amongst whom these three were most fa∣mous, Ioakin Spart Commendador of Moguncia. Ro: of Hamberg Commendador of Hemmend orf, and Francis Drost, by nation Germains. The chiefe men woun∣ded were, D. Iohn the Generall, Venieri the Venetian Admirall, Paulo Iordano, [ 30] Marco Molino, and Troylo Sauello, and well nie seuen thousand priuate men. This losse of it selfe great, was lessened by comparison of the Turkes, who were reported by some Authors to haue beene dismembred of 29000. of their brauest souldiers slaine and taken: some affirme it lesse, some more. But the multitude of their Gal∣lies taken, wracked, and dead bodies floting on the sea (carrying with it a resem∣blance of the generall deluge) acknowledge it to be great. Amongst those slaine, the most eminent was Ali Basha the high Admirall Generall, one of great mag∣nanimity and worthy such a place. Mehemet Bey alias Siroch Gouernor of Alex∣andria a man of singular iudgement and valor, fighting to the last, not (as others) that he saw not, but contemned the danger. Hassan Basha the valiant sonne of his [ 40] valerous father Barbarossa, and many others equally valliant, noble, and deere to the Emperor their Master. The most welcome prisoners were Achmat and Ma∣homet sonnes of the Generall Ali Mehemet Bey Gouernor of Euboea, and three thousand and odde vulgar souldiers. There escaped Partau Basha who since others would not follow his councell in abstaining from fight, made vse of it himselfe. Vluzzali a desperate and subtill Rennegado who fought, but so alwaies that he might flie, and as the Parthian horse-men, did most mischiefe in flying. There were taken 130 vessels. Whereof 117. were Gallies, 13. Galeots. Some report, 160. some more, some lesse. The escape of the rest making the number of such as were taken vncertain. The Galley of Cleopatra was not more ritch, curious or beautiful [ 50] then the Admirall Galley of Ali, neither did the beauty of it better become peace, then the strength warre. There was much treasure and many things of great va∣lue found in it, which the noble Generall, not basely conuerted to his priuate vse but distributed to those who most deserued it. Amongst these, a Macedonian by

whose fortunate hand the Basha died was worthily the greatest sharer. And be∣cause Don Iohn held gold to poore a reward for such vnestimable merit, he appro∣ued those other guifts with honor, and knighted him. But the munificent Vene∣tians thinking this a petty remuneration, nothing equiualent to the dignity of their state, gratified him with an annuity of 300. Ducats.

The most esteemed spoile of the Turkish fleet were the enfranchised Christi∣ans, in number 1200. words are but mute expressals of the wretchednesse of their captiuity (being at once compelled to suffer for, yet doe against their Religion) Nothing could equall it but this ioy of their enlargement, which was such as that of Ionas may be apprehended at his birth and resurrection out of that monster. Neither was this excessiue gladnesse confined to their owne brests, but at their [ 10] arriuall multiplied by diuision among their friends and kinsmen. Of whom these liuing mar•…•…ires receiued such welcome as was giuen to the three Ebrew Sala∣manders comming out of the furnace. They seemed but then married to their wiues, and their children new borne to them: Embracements were now in steed of fe•…•…ters, and kisses of blowes (blessed exchange!) And now they wept for ioy that they had no contrary cause to weepe. The misery past seemed to sweeten their present felicity, so that this day was with all deuotion, magnificence and exhilera∣tion celebrated as the Saboth of their slauish labours. The ninteenth of the same month Vnfredo Iustiniano arriued at Venice with aduertizement of victory to the Senate. Neuer any musicke so feasted their eares as that newes, no Orato∣ry [ 20] could be so harmonious as the plaine relation of it. The only word of victory was the Epi•…•…ome of all Retorick. The death of particular men seemed only a let∣ting bloud for the generall health. No man grutched to bestow a sonne or brother towards this common sacrifize. Euen the heroick Barbarico was rather enuied then lamented, they which honored him aliue, being dead welny adored him: so that sorrow was now banished out of Venice, and confined to Con∣stantinople.

The gratulatory Ambassadors of all neighbour Princes flocked thither, ac∣knowledging the Venetians their protectors and champions. [ 30]

The time of the yeere, and weaknesse of their fleete and men, moued the Ge∣nerall D. Iohn to desist from pursuing the victory any farther. Therefore he procee∣ded to diuision of the spoile, which was thus proportioned.

The Popes share was.

Gallies. 21.	Whereof 19. ordinary, 2. Galeots.
Ordnance. 54.	Whereof 9. great, 3. murtherers, 42. smaller peeces.
Prisoners. 881.	Amongest whom were Achmat and Mahomet the sonnes of the Ge∣nerall [ 40] Ali Basha.

The Venetians share was.

Gallies. 44.	Whereof 39. ordinary and a halfe, 4. Galeots and a halfe.
Ordnance. 131.	Whereof 39. and halfe great, 5. murtherers and an halfe. 86. smal∣ler peeces.
Prisoners 1162.	Of all sorts. [ 50]

The Spanish share was.

Gallies. 64.	Whereof 58. Gallies and a halfe, 6. Galeots and an halfe.

Ordnance 214.	Whereof 58. great peeces and a halfe, 8. great murtherers and an halfe. 128. smal∣ler peeces.
Prisoners 1713.	Of all sorts.

The Remainder were distributed among the assistants.

The diuision concluded not with equallity, yet generall satisfaction; the Vene∣tians thinking they had the more honor, though the Spaniard the more luggage. Venieri indefatigable in doing nobly, and exasperated with the yet smarting blow [ 10] of Cyprus, esteeming one Christian Kingdome not to be counteruailed with ma∣ny barbarous fleets, extolled highly the magnanimity of the General, hoping that praise would haue spurred him forward in so faire and open a way of victory, pro∣posing the reskew of Greece, an action which would more immortalize him then the conquest of Tunis had done his father, whose Genius he said would not enuy to see it selfe exceeded by him, which was not equalled by his Predecessors. This, much enflamed the hot-aspiring minde of the youthfull Prince lately fleshed, in so much that they proceeded to consultation how they might perfect this trophei whose hardest worke (the foundation) was already laied: when the secret malig∣ners of Venieri hauing now againe by his meanes leisure and security to oppose [ 20] themselues to any deseigne of his, diuerted D. Iohn from so braue a resolution. Therefore making Aprill the time, and Corfou the Rendezuous of their next yeeres conuention, they dissolued the Nauy. Don Iohn returning to Messina.

This abrupt departure in the eye of expectation, appeared a running away, or tergiuersation (I had almost said Apostacy) from victory, whom he seemed to leaue vnkindly, desyring him to stay longer. All men greeued to see hope preg∣nant and great, likely to bring forth faire issue if she had gon out her time thus miscarry. The death of Ali by a Grecian, that miserable nation interpreted an Omen of ensuing liberty; and in opinion manumzied, after they found them∣selues thus deluded, groaned as vnder a new subiugation. Vpon intelligence of [ 30] the ouer-throw, they had taken heart and would haue taken armes too, had they beene offered: It greeued him now to dismisse that resolution so necessarily en∣tertained. They desired if D. Iohn would not himselfe, only to let his shaddow (his fame) fight for them, while he stood by. That he would doe them the grace to eternize himselfe by their deliuery. And being certified of his returne cried out that he at once for-sooke himselfe and them, their liberty and his glory being the Twinnes whereof he was in labor, and that it was but a little greatnesse which one victory could fill. And surely had this opportunity beene well improoued, there might haue beene farre more made of it. For though that ingenious Turke to ex∣presse the inequallity betweene the losse of our Cyprus and their Nauy, said, That [ 40] Selim had cut off the Venetians arme, they, but his beard: insinuating, That timber growes, but not Kingdomes; and ships might be built, but not Islands: yet is it manifest that the chiefe strength of this Samson layin this haire, and that if hee had beene assailed ere it grew out againe, the razor which cut his beard might haue cut his throat. Thus much the Tyrant himselfe vnwittingly acknowledged by the intended massacre of the Christians vnder him, cunningly fathered on re∣uenge, but begot by feare. He knew captiues of the quality of fire, as dangerous as seruiceable. It is true that the next spring, his fleet (not as it might haue beene quite rooted out) budded forth to his former hight: his Arsenals spawning shoales of Gallies, yet barren enough in marriners, the eye of a fleet; without these his [ 50] Gallies were blinde, not directing, but groaping their way: his expertest Pilots, old naturall sea-men, begot as it were on Marmaides, and nurst vp in the armes of the sea, perrished in the last battaile; these fresh multitudes did not man but fraught his vessels.

But these publike considerations were lesse potent to mooue D. Iohn to persist, then other priuate respects, to reduce him from this honorable expedition. There∣fore the noble Venieri, whose actiue vntired spirit, neither the yeeres winter, nor his owne, could be numbe, was excited, not deterred, by his departure, so far from being •…•…etrograde in his course of victory that he determined to goe a step far∣ther: and knowing that the terror of the late ouer-throw had much shaken and made a breach in the Turkish courage, he thought good to enter it ere time or supplies should repaire it. Being in this deliberation, Philippo Bragadino Prouida∣tor of the Gulphe arriued with sixe Galleasses and ten Gallies, and after consulta∣tion, strengthing his owne fleete with this addition, and both with his owne repu∣tation, he sodainely dispatch't Quirini, associated with many braue captaines to [ 10] Marguerita, which Venieri his fame deliuered vp to them; but finding it vntenable they razed it.

Venieri taking this as an earnest of some farther successe propounded an ex∣pedition for Saint Maura, which many of the councell of warre oppugned, al∣leadging the strength of the place, the vnaptnesse of the time, and disproportion of their owne powers to both; yet he full of hope and courage, resoluing, where∣soeuer the impediment were, it should not be in himselfe, proceeded thither, and hauing better viewed the impregnablenesse of the place, hee thought it a part of wisdome, next the not vndertaking a dangerous attempt, speedily to lay it downe, and therefore returned to Corfoù. [ 20]

Colonna leauing D. Iohn (on whom all supreame and exquisite honors were heaped) at Naples, from thence with great magnificence passed towards Rome: by the way, all mens eares and eyes taken vp and reserued soly for this obiect. E∣uery tongue being a Preface to the voluminous praises dedicated to him after∣wards at Rome. Venice held the enemy at the armes end but had he euer closed with Italy, Rome would haue beene shrewdly griped. This Ague offeare thus shaking her, imagine how welcome the Physition was that cured her. To haue secured her from mischiefe, had been meritorious, but to returne it thither whence it came, was an infinite obligation: Arriuing therefore at Rome, long after him∣selfe, [ 30] his fame had out-stripped him, and raised the spirit of that ancient city in a shape of triumphe to see her aged glory in this bright Glasse of victory, and en∣tertaine her new champion. The city seemed to be turned inside outward: their ritch tapistries now beautifying the walles without, the streets strewed with flow∣ers as at a marriage. At last came Colonna accompanied with the chiefe Senators and attended by the most eminent captiues, in number 160. suted rather to his fortune then their owne, very ritchly, yet in their countenances retayning a maie∣stick sorrow. Thus passing through many triumphant Arches erected in his ho∣nor, he came to the Popes place, at whose feete prostrating both himselfe and his dignities, and deliuering vp the sonnes of Ali, late likely to haue arriued in a lesse [ 40] welcome manner, he was most graciously entertained. His Holinesse applauding his proceeding generally. But quite contrary was his opinion of Doria: whom he said behaued himself more like a Pirate, or newtral, then one of the Christian party.

The end of the tenth Booke of the sixth Decade.

The Contents of the first Booke of the [ 10] seuenth Decade.

THE farther expectation of al men after the famous vic∣tory of Lepanto. The Venetians preparation against the spring. The Emperor beeing solicited by the Pope and Venetians to enter into the league refuseth it. The French King, Kings of Portugall and Poland doe the [ 20] like. The Spaniards seeme vnwilling by reason of the troubles of Flanders. The Venetians great preparations to passe into the Le∣uant. The Turkes scoure the seas whilest their fleet is making ready. The death of Pius the fifth, with the creation of Pope Gregory the thirteenth. Don Iohn his allegations for his stay at Messina. Souranza comming thi∣ther solicits Don Iohn to depart and vnite himselfe to the Venetian fleete. The cause of Don Iohns delay. Souranza bringeth supplies to Corfou. Iealo∣zies betwixt the French and Spaniards by reason of the troubles of Flanders, with the French Kings complaint against the Duke of Alua. The Spaniards [ 30] are iealous of the French. The Pope and Venetians send Ambassadors to the most Christian and Catholike Kings to remooue their distrusts. Vluzzali Ge∣nerall of the Turkish fleet putteth to sea. The Senats resolution perceiuing the delays of the Spaniards: Don Iohn certifieth Marc-Antonio Colonna of his departure: The Christian fleet notwithstanding leaues Corfoù: Vluzzali determineth to fight with the Christian fleet: The Christians resolue to assaile the Turkes: The enemies alter their purpose and refuse battaile: The death of Sigismond King of Poland: The Venetian General intending to giue battaile [ 40] encourageth his soldiers. And lastly the retreat or rather flight of the enemies.

The first Booke of the seuenth Decad of the Historie of Uenice. [ 10]

THE victory of the confederate Princes ouer the Turkes, who by their fortunate successe had till then made themselues terri∣ble to all nations, had begot such expectation and hope in most men, as they supposed a fit occasion was now offered to reuenge all former wrongs: and that the Ottoman Empire forsaken of her late felicity would be ouerthrowne by the pow∣er of Christian Princes; perswading themselues that the onely report of the ar∣riuall of the Christian fleet was sufficient to open a way to gallant enterprises [ 20] and conquests, and to cause the inhabitants of the Prouinces possest by the Turkes to reuolt, who did deadly hate their religion, customes, and gouernment: But the discreeter sort were not transported with such idle suppositions, nor fed with such vaine hope, considering the euent of things by reason, and not by af∣fection, knowing that so long as the Turkes land forces (the true foundation of their Empire) were vnshaken, there was no likelyhood at all to preuaile against* 3.3 them, nor to hope on the peoples reuolt who commonly are wont to produce cleane contrary effects, and especially in the Ottoman Empire, where subiects are poore and needy, wanting commanders, armes and meanes, so that their com∣motions [ 30] can not greatly hurt the Turkes, or profit others: and that the Greekes, accustomed of a long time to seruitude, had lost the greatest part of their ancient generosity.* 3.4

The Venetians vpon these considerations were carefull to make new warlike preparations, to augment the number of their Gallies, to refresh their army with new souldiers, and generally to prouide whatsoeuer should be necessary, that they might speedily send their fleet into the Leuant against the Turkes.

But Christian Princes (shutting their eyes in regard of their owne particular affections) did not apprehend the fit occasion offered to abate the power of so great and terrible an enemy, and in a manner enuying one an other they discour∣sed [ 40] thereof as though it had beene a forraine warre (wherein notwithstanding consisted the common safety) and reiected the good fortune which the former prosperous successe did promise them: for the Emperor being entreated and solicited by the Pope and Venetians to embrace the cause, and being likewise perswaded by the Catholike King, who to that end had sent Don Pedro Fassardo to him, still persisting in his vsuall delaies, and irresolutnesse, alleadged new but greater difficulties, and wanting will, was very glad to entertaine any excuse to free himselfe from it: therefore he demanded to haue ready money giuen him* 3.5 insteed of those foote forces which they offered, and sufficient caution for it in some free townes of Germany, adding farther that he would be assured of the [ 50] continuance of that supply for a long time, and that to those ends they should insert more strict and expresse obligations in the Articles of the capitulati∣ons: this hee propounded onely for a shew, knowing well enough that they would neuer be granted; and it was likewise knowne, that hee had prepared the

tribute, and already made choice of a messenger to carry it to Constantinople. Charl•…•…s the French King on the other side, solicited by the Pope, not to be wan∣ting to all Christendome in such an expedition, answered that he would first vn∣derstand the Emperours resolution, and so soone as his forces were ready, hee would not faile speedily to send his aide to ioyne with the land-troupes of Ger∣many, vnder the conduct of his brother the Duke of Aniou, but that hee neither could, nor ought, to suffer his sea-forces (farre inferior to those of Spaine) to ioyne with them.

At the same time the Cardinall Alexandrine hauing executed his commission in Spaine, was by the Popes commandement gon in Portugall, from whence [ 10] they hoped to procure thirty vessels of warre for seruice of the Christian fleet: the King did honourably entertaine him, yet hee could draw nothing from his Maiesty but generall promises, whereby he saw, that the King inclyning wholly to the enterprize of Barbary against the Moores, did not greatly respect matters farre from home. Not long after, Antonio Tepulo hauing accomplished his Am∣bassadge into Spaine, went thither likewise, verily perswading himselfe that the newes of the late victory would the easier haue induced that King to embrace the league, wherein a very honourable place was reserued for him, the Confederates fortunate successe inuiting him therevnto, together with his owne interest, that the vnbridled greatnesse of the Turkes might bee abated, whom (not without [ 20] cause) hee might feare would prooue bad neighbours to his Indies. All this could not procure the King to incline to the league, nor could the Ambassadors* 3.6 draw any other promise from him, then this, That hee would the next yeere send foure thousand footmen to the seruice of the league, and ioyne some few of his owne vessels to the Confederates fleet, the which he could not then doe, because that certaine French Protestants of Rochell, did ordinarily make incursions vp∣on his territories and sea coasts, whereby he was enforced continually to enter∣taine certaine armed vessels, to resist them and the Moores of Fesse, and of this by letters he certified the Senate.

Tepulo in the end, because his Ambassage should not be fruitlesse, told him, [ 30] that he might assist the common cause of Christendome against the infidels by o∣ther meanes, not hindring himselfe at all, namely by causing his officers in the In∣dies* 3.7 to acquaint the Persians, sworne enemies to the Turkes, with the vnion of the Christian Princes, with their late victory against Selim, and with their deseignes, and afterwards by sending certaine numbers of Portugall Harguebuziers from the red sea, vnto the confines of the Turkish Empire, to keepe them busied in sun∣dry places, or at least to amaze and hold them in suspence. The king promised so to doe, adding therevnto that they should stop their commerce from Ormus and Bazzana, and the transportation of mettal through the Persian seas, which aboun∣dantly was brought to them from China. [ 40]

The King likewise gaue meanes to the Cardinall Alexandrine, to conuey cer∣taine Breefes to the Persian King, Prester Iohn, and some other Kings of Arabia written vnto them by the Pope, wherein he solicited them to take armes against the Turkes, the which letters tooke none effect, nor were euer answered.

The Pope likewise solicited the King of Poland, with whom at the same time the Cardinall Commendon remayned, who promised to draw that King into* 3.8 the league, in regard of sundry accidents which happened, besides the victory, the Turkes meaning to bee reuenged on the Polakes, for that they had fauored the Valachian, to the preiudice of the Ottoman Empire, and for that purpose had in hostile manner entred Prussia, Padolia, and Russia. But the King falling [ 50] sicke during the treaty and not beeing able to bee present at the negociation, it was referred to some Lords of the Kingdom, who did smally affect that war, being vnwilling to contribute (according to their custome) towards the expense of for∣rain war: As also because that at the same time they had intelligence that a Chiaus

was comming from Constantinople to their Court, to treate about that conten∣tion, al the Popes endeuor & authority could not make it sort to any good effect.

After this manner were matters handled in the Court of Christian Princes, who seemed already to decline from their former hope, and knew, that for the a∣bating of the Turkish power the Sea-forces were not sufficient, but that a mighty land-Army was needfull: and that therefore it especially imported them to haue the Emperor to enter into the league, all men holding it for certain, that Poland, Musco•…•…y, and the other northerne Prouinces, apt to take Armes against the Turkes, would presently yeeld to the authority of the Empire: this being consi∣dered by the enemies they vsed all meanes to preserue the Emperor Maximilians friendship, thinking the danger, which threatened them, not to be small, if all Ger∣many [ 10] should league it selfe against them.

Therefore Mahomet Bascha had written to the Emperor, and had particularly* 3.9 acquainted him with the battaile, making the ouerthrow farre lesse then indeed it was, and the power of the Ottoman Empire very great, requesting him not to breake the truce for other mens pleasures, but to preserue his inuiolate freind∣ship with Selim; which beeing once knowne, would continue for euer. But that which did heerein most trouble the Pope and Venetians and made them to feare,* 3.10 was, their suspition, that the Spaniards would not shew themselues so ready to pursue the course of the victory, as the importancy of the cause did require: be∣cause that diuers of the Catholick Kings courtiers murmured against D. Iohn for [ 20] hazarding the Kings forces in battaile, seeing that his maiesties interest was vn∣like that of the Venetians where-vppon they were differently to bee mannaged: and for that afterwards when they vnderstood, that the Duke of Sessa, a noble and famous Gentleman, came to command in the Army in stead of the great Commander Requ•…•…sens who went to be Gouernour of Milan, they inferd there∣vppon, that the Catholik King would not haue D. Iohn attempt ought without his aduise and Councell.

Now the greatest let then found in pursuing this warre of the Leuant, was, the bad successe of the affaires of Flanders, where they daily grew from bad to [ 30] worse, not without som suspition that the Protestants of Germany, England and France would fauour and asist that rebellion so, that a fit and conuenient oppor∣tunity being made to vnite the Nauies and put to Sea, notwithstanding that Leo∣nardo Contaren the Venetians Ambassador with D. Iohn, did solicite this vnion and shipping of the soldiers, all his pursuites were in vayne. The Venetians a∣lone, not loosing time, spared neither cost nor labour, but sought to make vse of the victory, and with great speed trimd their Gallies, augmented their number, made new leuies of soldiers to compleat their army, that it might speedily bee ready to saile into the Leuant. And because that D. Iohn and the Spaniards had entertained some distast of the Generall Venieri (as hath beene already said) the [ 40] better to take away al occasion of hatred and diuision, they chose Iacomo Poscarini their Generall who at that time was Prouidator Generall in Dalmatia, who ha∣uing notice that hee was elected, and receiuing the Common wealthes standerd from Lodouico Grimani who succeeded him in Dalmatia, he departed from Zara on the first day of Aprill with nine Gallies and went to Cor•…•…ou, where taking charge of the fleet, which at that time consisted of 40. Gallies, he made a General review, and sent for great numbers of footmen vnder diuers Captaines from Brindisi, he stored the Gallies with victualls, armor, munitions and all other ne∣cessaries: this being done, the Generall Venieri with some Gallies retired into the Gulph, there to execute some Noble enterprize, if occasion were offered. [ 50] * 3.11

This in effect is all that was done by the Christian Princes. The Turkes after the battaills losse, were by so much more aflicted, as inured to victory, they could not entertaine conceit of contrary successe, and contemning the Christian forces, they came rather to spoile then to fight: but this vnexpected ouerthrow

made them more circumspect. wherevppon Selim who then lay at Constantino∣ple, fearing •…•…least some innouation might happen at Constantinople, presently went thither and shewed himselfe to the people, dissembling as much as in him lay, his discontent and feare. The Baschas neuerthelesse were very carefull to pro∣uide all necessaries for the army, so as it seemed they were in hope to reforme their former error, and to recouer their lost reputation: they repayred their old Gallies, built new, enrolled great numbers of Marriners, sent for soldiers forth of the Prouinces to come to Constantinople, so that vsing industry and speed to the hurt and wonder of the Christians, Carassali departing forth of the streight of Gallipolis with threescore armed vessells, began to scoure the Seaes, and to wast [ 10] the Islands of Tino and Carigo, whilest Vluzzali prepared a great fleet: for they had determined being once vnited to passe on, and to inuade the Isle of Candy; or else face the Venetians Nauy, frustrate their deseignes, and assure the Seas belonging to the Ottoman Empire. These prouisions and the Confederates de∣laies and irresolutions, had much imboldened the Turkes, and although in the beginning they had sundry times conferred with the Venetian Baily concerning peace, and seemed to be very desirous of it, they neuerthelesse delayed the cer∣taine resolution thereof till the arriuall of the Bishop of Aix Ambassador to the most Christian King, whom they knew at that time to be come from Venice to∣wards Constantinople vppon important affaires, supposing that hee brought [ 20] * 3.12 som particular commission with him concerning that businesse, and that by his mediation together with his Kings authority, they might the easier establish and conclude some honorable agreement: but the condition of matters being after∣wards changed when they came to treat on particulars, they propounded very vniust Articles, being desirous to make peace as though they had been victorious not vanquished, menacing the Venetians with losse and destruction: The Confe∣derates neuerthelesse being no whit mooued by these nor other geeat mischeefs, went very slowly to work, as though the enemies had beene wholly defeated, that they had no more cause to fight, and as if at their own pleasure they might haue enioyed the fruit of the Vlctory. All men did wonder at these delaies, and diffe∣rently [ 30] discoursed therof: A rumor was spred abroad, that the French did no lon∣ger* 3.13 in secret but openly assist the Flemmings who determined to inuade the ter∣ritories of the Catholick King; that to this end, they prepared fifty shippes of warre at Rochell, which should be commanded by Phillippo Strozzi: and else∣where other stirrs and rumors of war were reported to be currant in the Realme of Nauarre.

These soe important and dangerous reports, held the Spaniards in sus∣pence, and would not suffer them to imploy their sea▪forces, in which their greatest hope consisted) in forraine enterprizes, fearing not to haue them again at their need, for the defense of their owne territories Many alleaged other rea∣sons [ 40] which mooued the Spaniards not to set forth: But whatsoeuer the true occa∣sion was, it was after the Spannish manner kept very secret: for they, making no shew to feare the French, or that they had giuen ouer the enterprize of the Se∣nate for any other respect, they did still affirme the contrary, promising from day to day to come to Corfou: all this they did very cunningly, knowing well enough* 3.14 that if the Venetians should suspect that the Conederates went about to for∣sake them, it would enforce them to make vse of the present time, and to agree with the Turkes: a matter which would greatly preiudice the Spani∣ards, who resoluing for to continue perpetuall enemies vnto the Turkes would alone bee constrayned to make head against the forces of so great a [ 50] Potentate.

After this manner did the Spaniards at the same time beare themselues, not bewraying their inward intentions, but temporizing in conclusion did nothing.

In the meane time Pius Quintus dyed generally lamented, a man of great Sancti∣mony* 3.15 and zealous of the common good of Christendome, the onely instrument of the preseruation and augmentation of the league.

These newes flying to Venice, the Senate presently by letters sollicited the* 3.16 Colledge of Cardinalls, not to suffer the league, which his late Holinesse had che∣risht, to dye with him, knowing how mortall delay was to it, and how preiudici∣all the dissolution, to the common good: the Colledge resolued to continue the preparation for warre, and instantly committed the ma•…•…naging of the busi∣nesse vnto the former Commissioners, who then presently 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in hand with it.

The Papacy was not long vacant, for the same day the Conclaue elected H•…•…go [ 10] Boncompagno Cardinal of Saint Sixtus, a Bolognesse & doctor of the lawes long resident and very famous in the Court of Rome intituling himselfe Gregory 13.

His Coronation solemnized he confirmed the league in the former condition but concerning the conuention of the fleetes there arose many delayes and difficulties: for D. Iohn only seeking procrastination, grew scrupulous of his de∣parture, saying his commission extended no farther, but euery day expected a more ample, where with hee hoped ere long to satisfie them: by this meanes was the great preparation of the Venetian frustrate, and D. Iohn perseuering in these protractions, wrote to the Generall Foscarini that his onely stay was for the Duke of Sessa, who if he came not uery speedily, himselfe resolued without him [ 20] to come to Corfou: hee likewise taxed Collonna, because his expectation of the Florentine Gallies, made him delay his ioyning with the fleet. The Senate had enioyned the Generall Foscarini not to attempt any particular enterprize till the Spanish Gallies were arriued, •…•…erst he therby should hinder the common cause of the league,* 3.17

At the same time Sciara Martinenga of Bressia a man famous for his martiall experience, and Gouernor Generall of Albania propounded the enterprize vp∣pon Castelnouo to the Senate, a matter greatly desired by the Venetians, not so much for facillity of conquest, the towne beeing small and badly inhabited, as [ 30] for the commodious situation thereof, lying at the mouth of the Gulph of Catharra.

The Senate in som sort desirous to let the enemies feele the fury of their Armes committed this attempt to Martinenga, who told them that he had already suffi∣ciently viewed the place, and that the execution thereof was easie. Hee imbar∣ked himselfe and fiue thousand footmen at Chioggia, among whom were many Frenchmen, gallant fellowes and good soldiers, hee directed his course towards the Gulph of Catharra, carrying with him a commission from the Councell of Tenne to the General Venieri to aid and asist him in that enterprize, whom me•…•…∣ting by •…•…he way neere to Sisena they sailed together towards the mouth of the [ 40] * 3.18 Gulph, where landing their soldiers and attempting to surprize the Towne, the a∣larme was so whot ouer the whole Countrey, as multitudes of Turkes comming to defend it, Martinenga and the Generall were enforced to quitt the enterprize and to retreat, the one to Zara, and the other with his French forces to Catharra,

After this manner did the Christians affaires languish, and were nothing answe∣rable to the reputation which the late victory had gotten them, their fleets and soldiers remayning idle at Corfou and Messina, being spectators of the enemies insulting braues at sea, their number and victualls daily diminishing D. Iohn still remayning at Messina and vsing his former delayes, did infinitely discontent the [ 50] Generall Foscaren, who somtimes determined of him selfe to attempt somewhat vppon the enemy, but at last making a vertue of necessity and knowing his owne forces alone to weake for any great enterprize, he was enforced to spend the time in expectation of the confederates arriuall. And yet he did by all meanes auoide

any occasion that might discontent the Spaniards, or giue them cause of any suspition, that they might haue no lawfull cause to bee wanting to the com∣mon cause.

Foscarini beeing thus perplext, thought it best to send the Prouidator Soranza to Messina, who was newly come from Candy, hoping that by his wisdome and discretion, Don Iohn being put in minde of his former honor, might bee speedily* 3.19 induced to depart. Souranza departed from Corfou with twenty fiue Galleys, hauing foule weather all the way: at last arriuing at Messina, hee was honorably entertained by Marc-Antonio Colonna, excusing himselfe and imputing it to the tempest, that he had not met him farther at sea: they both went to Don Iohns [ 10] Pallace, and at the gates were receiued by the Count of Piega his chiefe Steward, and principall Gentlemen of his houshold, conducting them into the Princes,* 3.20 presence, who with all honorable curtesie welcomed him, seeming highly conten∣ted with his comming: Soranza began to acquaint him with the cause of his arri∣uall, together with the state of matters, and incredible desire of all men to see him at Corfou: he informed him of the great number of Galleys, soldiers, abondance of victuals and munitions, where with two and twenty ships were loden: that they onely wanted the conuention of the fleets, which they all desired in so important an action: in regard whereof hee was sent to acquaint him with the stare of the Venetians nauy, and to waite vpon him to Corfou. That the Venetian Captains, [ 20] who had a long time bin in readinesse, would attempt nothing without his pre∣sence, notwithstanding that they had beene often inuited therevnto by report of the enemies weaknesse, and by their wrongs and spoiles committed in the Islands vnder their dominion: That the Senate, and euery particular man, desired to haue the glory and honor of all enterprises bestowed vpon him: for which cause espe∣cially they had hitherto kept their whole fleet in harbor, being wel assured that his arriuall at Corfou would be no longer deferred, & that his own present comming to Messina, was rather to honor then hasten his departure: saying that nothing would be more dangerous to the league, then continuation of delay. Marc-Anto∣nie Colonna, did in the Popes name second Soranza, telling him how much his Ho∣linesse [ 30] desired the prosperity of the league, and conuention of the fleetes.

Don Iohn seemed not to distaste this motion, excusing his delay by sundry im∣pediments hapned, promising euer after to vse all possible speed, and to take or∣der for the present rigging of an hundred Galleys which should bee man'd with* 3.21 forty thousand footemen of seuerall nations. But the effects were not an∣swerable to his words, for at that time there were but three score Galleys in the hauen of Messina: and of those which the Duke of Sessa was to bring from Spain, there was no newes at all: Besides, the old soldiers refused to go any farther, vn∣lesse they might receiue certaine moneths pay which was due vnto them for their former seruice. Yet they dayly fed the Venetian Prouidator with sundry hopes [ 40] and faire promises: and the better to beguile him, they imbarked three thousand I∣talian foot in thirty Galleis vnder the conduct of the General of Naples, giuing it forth that they were to goe before to Corfou, there to expect the remainder of the fleete.

In these delayes did they waste time, and halfe Iune was spent without any exploit vpon the enemy, or any certaine hope or resolution what to do: his Holi∣nesse so licitations being therein of no more force then that of the Venetians: for the Pope hauing often by letters, and lately by his expresse messenger the Bishop of Odiscalca hastned Don Iohn: he went about to satisfie him with good words, & faire promises, so far, as the nauy was blest by his Holinesse Nuncio, processions [ 50] * 3.22 and prayers appointed to be made, and a day prefixt taken for their departure.

In the end, D. Iohn knowing no more how to excuse his delay, beeing on euery side solicited to depart, the Marquis of Santa Cruz, arriuing with the Galleys of Naples, and Don Iuan de Cardona with those of Sicill, his owne Admirall Galley

beeing likewise ready, was constrained to discouer the truth of the mattetr, which was, that hee had receiued expresse commandement from Spaine, not •…•…o carry the fleete into the Leuant, by reason of the Kings doubt of the Fren•…•…h, which had restrayned his commission and forces in a place from whence hee might easily depart (if need should be) to defend the territories of the Spanish King.

Souranza vnderstanding the true cause of D. Iohns delay, and perceiuing his own earnest soliciting to be in vaine thought it fit before his departure, at leastwise to trye if for the honour of the league he would lend him part of his nauy, which be∣ing ioyned to the Venetians at Corfou, might preserue the glory and reputation which it had formerly wonne: yet because he would not bee seene in it himselfe, [ 10] he caused Collonna to demand it, wherevppon the Councell beeing often assem∣bled, they at last resolued to lend him 22. Gallies and 5000. foot: but because many of them were to be drawn from the Garrisons of Calabria; their departure was yet longer delayed. G•…•…lles Andrada Knight of Malta had command of the Gallies as Generall to the King, and Vincento Tuttauila Count of Sarna com∣man•…•…ded* 3.23 the soldiers.

With these Gallies and those of the Church, 13. in number, eleuen of the Duke of Florence, and two of Michaele Bonello brother to Cardinall Alexandrine, the Prouidator Souranza returned to Corfou, and by the way Marc-Antonio Collonna, displayed the enseigne of the league, and held the place of Generall. [ 20]

The Intention of the Spaniards published, it was euery where reported that the whole force of the league would not for that yeare make any expedition into the Leuant: and yet the Spanish Ambassador at Rome had intelligence that notwith∣standing the affaires of Flanders a iourney might be made into the east, and ther∣fore that his Kings Gallies should direct their course to Affrike, and likewise to releeue Sicily- Muleassen King of Tunis his pursute with D. Iohn to excite him to this enterprize, was caufe that al men beleeued this report: and yet mens discour∣ses were different for though the warre of Flanders was not new, the accidents were so, which enforced the Catholick King to haue a care of the preseruation of [ 30] those Contries where the enemies forces and disorders were very much augmen∣ted For Count Nassau hauing at the beginning of the yeare taken Mons in Hen∣ault, and not long after the Citty of Valenciennes, his whole forces consisting of forraine soldiers and for the most part French, this bred great distrust and iealou∣zie betwixt the two mighty Kings of France and Spayne, so as the Duke of Alua, then Gouernour of the Low-Contries, did speedily aduertize his maister thereof, the like did he to the Pope and Venetians, amplifiing the matter more then nee∣ded, wherewith Cardinall Granuell and the Spannish Ambassador that were at Rome, wrote speedily to D Iohn, willing him not to depart from Messina, all Spaine beeing in alarme, which did likewise put some iealous distrust in the [ 40] French, least the Spaniards with their nauy should inuade Prouence, wherevp∣pon they beganne to fortifie Marseilles, and other important places, placing in them strong Garrisons.

Vppon a rumor spred abroad that the Duke of Alua should publiquely say, that hee accounted warre to beee open betwixt Spaine and France, the most Christian King was mooued thereat, & made many complaints by his Ambassa∣dors not onely at Rome and Venice, but in Spaine also, beeing partly greeued that his cheefe officers did affirme so important a matter; the which as himselfe detested, hee supposed others would doe the like: in part like-wise going about to iustifie his owne actions, from which it seemed that the Duke of Aluas suspi∣tion [ 50] proceeded, causing him to vse such speech.

The Christian King affirmed, that those French which had followed the Count Nassau at the taking of Valenciennes, were indeed his subiects, but all of them of

the Protestant faction, and by consequent disobedient rebels to the Crowne of France: that hee had euer beene greatly greeued for the troubles in Flanders, as one that in his owne kingdome had too much experience of subiects rebellion, and whose part it was to roote out, and not by such examples to cherish the bold∣nesse of vass•…•…ls against their Prince; beeing as desirous of the wealth of Chri∣stendome as any other liuing, although his owne particular troubles would not at that time permit him to shew it in effect: and seeing with his owne forces hee could not assist them, his meaning was not to hinder the good intent of others: that he had some armed vessels ready, not to assaile or offend any one, but onely for the safety of his owne seas infested by Pyrates: the number of his vessels be∣ing [ 10] insufficient for any great action.

These or such like discourses did the French Kings Ambassadors by their mai∣sters* 3.24 commandement vse in Spaine, Rome, and Venice: and to giue the greater credit vnto them, they were by Edict euery where published, with a prohibition to all French men, on greeuous penalties, not to passe with their armes into Flanders: and not satisfied here-with, his most Christian Maiesty, seemed at the same time to incline to the league, wherevpon, the Cardinall Lorraine, by his commandement, did often conferre with the Venetian Ambassador, resident in his Court concerning that businesse, whom hee went about to perswade, that the French King was wholy bent to procure the peace of Christendome, with a [ 20] singular affection toward the Crowne of Spaine.

All this notwithstanding, the Spaniards were no better satsfied then before, saying, That the French did but this to coulor their practises, and to open them∣selues a way to assaile the Catholick Kings territories in sundry places: That* 3.25 they had certaine notice, how that the King of Nauarre, and the Admirall Colig∣ni, did openly vrge the most Christian King to vndertake that warre, whom hee must needs please, in regarde of his owne particularinterest, the chiefe Lords and Princes of his Court, mainteining that France would neuer bee at quiet, vn∣lesse the King did resolue vpon some forraine enterprise, wherein to employ both Catholicks and Protestants, and among others, that of Flanders seemed the easi∣est [ 30] for many respects: That he might make that warre with some coulor, by rea∣son of the claime of the Crowne of France to those Countries: in which warre* 3.26 without all question the Queene of England would willingly haue a share, in re∣gard of her distast of the Catholik King: That the marshall ot Montmorency went into England to none other end, then to conclude the League with the En∣glish, and that both of them together beeing freed from other troubles, might the easlier enuade the Netherlands: Besides, that the French Kings league with the Turke, made them to suspect, that hee went about to procure the Turkes Army to enuade the Catholick King, as they had done in former times, especially seeing it was reported that the Turke had giuen the citty of Tunis to the French [ 40] King, and promised with his forces to defend it against the Spaniards.

The Pope beeing greatly mooued at these delayes, as well for the common interest of Christendome, as his owne reputation, which hee accounted to bee much blemished, in that hee at his first comming to the Papacy hauing freely confirmed the league, the Nauy should now become idle and vnprofitable, or else be imployed to any other end, which the King of Spaine could not doe, it beeing set forth at the Clergies cost, by permission and authority of the Sea Apostolick, onely against the Turkes. This caused his Holinesse to send new messengers to D. Iohn, to command him speedily to depart and ioyne with the Venetians fleet: and on the other, he councelled the Venetians to dispatch speedy Ambassadors to the [ 50] French and Spanish courts, to root out all suspitious doubts, and distrusts betwixt those Kings, and particularly to incite the Catholick Maiesty, to send away his fleet without any more delay, according to the articles of the league.

His Holinesse sent his Nuncios for that purpose, Antonio Maria Saluiati Bishop of Saint Peposito the French King, and Nicolo Ormaneti Bishop of Padua to the King of Spaine. The Emperor likewise vsed meanes to attone these two Kings, be∣ing mooued therevnto by sundry particular respects of his owne: but the Venetians more then any shewed themselues earnest and ready in this businesse as well in re∣gard of their owne interest, as for that they were loath to giue the Pope any cause to suspect, that by not stirring in so important a deseigne, their mindes were tur∣ned to peace, and thereby to distaste him of the league.

They then according to his commandement chose two Ambassadors, namely,* 3.27 Giouan Micaele for France, and Antonio Tepulo for Spaine, who made hast to those [ 10] Courts. Michaele being come into France did briefly acquaint the King with the Senates desire to see a firme and assured peace established betwixt Christian Princes, that being afterwards vnited, they might turne their forces vpon the com∣mon enemy: he told him that the Venetians were much discontented with the re∣bellions of Flanders, and with the iealozies which therevpon arose betwixt his Maiesty and the Catholike King, which if they should haue lasted, could not but haue procured great hurt to Christendome: but by how much the matter was great and important of it selfe, by so much the lesse could the Senate be induced* 3.28 to beleeue it, being well acquainted with his Maiesties discreet loue and affection to the common good: And because the perswations of those, who are enemies to [ 20] peace, and who for their owne particular interest, are wont to diuert Princes from their good and honourable deseignes, the Senate would not be wanting (therein following the custome of their ancestors) to imploy in that businesse, the fauour which it particularly presumed to haue with his Maiesty, to exhort him to stop his eares to such inducements, and if peraduenture he had already entertained them, that it might please him in the behalfe of Christendome, and for his particular loue to their Commonwealth to cassier them, to the end that the Catholike King freed from that doubt, might freely harken to the enterprises of the Leuant, and obserue the Articles of the league.

The King gaue a willing eare to this discourse, saying that the Senate was in no [ 30] * 3.29 sort deceiued of his exceeding loue towards their Commonweale, and least of all, in beleening that he was desirous of the wealth and aduancement of Christen∣dome: that the troubles of Flanders had neuer pleased him, that he had vsed all possible meanes, to keepe his subiects from being adherents or supporters of those Rebels: but that the condition of those times, and the present wretched estate of his Kingdome would not permit him to tame the insolency of some that loued in∣nouation; who were not to be wondered at, if after they had raised troubles in his owne Realme, went about to doe the like in his neighbours Dominions: that it had neuer beene by his consent; for that would haue hurt the Catholike King, and done no good to France, but on the contrary, would haue procured new [ 40] troubles which might easily incite the Catholike King to an agreement with the Flemings, and afterwards to make warre vpon him in Daulphiné, or in the King∣dome of Nauar, by which meanes, in seeking to carry the war into a forraine coun∣try, he might be enforced to bring it into his owne, at such a time when the forces of his Realme were wasted and diuided by long ciuil wars. The Queene mother being present at this discourse, who at that time had great authority in managing* 3.30 the affaires of the Kingdome, desirous to preserue peace, would needs with her owne hand write to his Holinesse to assure him of her willingnesse in all things to follow his aduise and councell▪ and that if her sonne the King had raised forces, it was not don with an intent to hurt any but only to serue and defend himself from [ 50] the Spaniards who were reported vpon no iust cause to haue taken armes.

The Catholike King on the other side, before Tepulo his arriuall at his Court, resolued to write to Don Iohn, That all other respects laied aside, hee should make hast with his Gallies to ioyne with the Venetians and with them to saile

into the Leuant, being herevnto moued by intelligence of the French Kings affec∣tion towards him, or else, for that he did not much feare his power, hauing recoue∣red Valenciennes, or because he would not so much honor the French, as to haue it said, that for feare of them he had giuen ouer so important an enterprise, as that* 3.31 against the Turkes, or (that which is most like to be true) because, as became a wise and vertuous Prince, he would in no sort omit that wherevnto he was obliged by the league: but whatsoeuer it were that caused this resolution it is certaine that it proceeded from his owne proper motion, and that he did write so to Don Iohn, before he acquainted his councell therewith, fearing least they should propound some difficulties, which might haue diuerted him from it as in former times. [ 10]

Antonio Tepulo in the meane time being come into Spaine and aduertized of* 3.32 the Kings determination, did not speake any thing of the French iealozies or vni∣ting of the Nauies, but only intreated the King to permit D. Iohn, in regard the time of yeere was almost past for sea-affaires to winter in the Leuant, mooued therevnto by sundry reasons which much imported the Venetian Common∣wealth. The King neuerthelesse alleadging many reasons to the contrary, would not grant his request, either of his owne proper motion as being vnwilling to ha∣zard too much on fortune, or else being so aduised by such as were not greatly af∣fected to the league. Now, whilest the confederate fleet went slowly forward, the great and mighty Turkish nauy scoured the sea. For Vluzzali being made Gene∣rall [ 20] thereof, besides the gallies which he had receiued of Carazzati, had with great speed rig'd and man'd an hundred others, with al which, departing in great pompe and magnificence from Constantinople, he had already past the Streight of Gal∣lipolis and came forward intending to wast and spoile the Isle of Candy, and other places belonging to the Venetians, according as he should haue intelligence of the progression of the Christian fleet: certaine newes being at that time brought to Venice of the stay and delaies of the Spanish fleet, which did much discontent them, and made them wonder that the Spaniards, who at first had been so desirous of the league, should after such a fortunate and vnhoped for successe (fearing some vncertaine and remote dangers) wholy depriue themselues of the present and assu∣red [ 30] beauty thereof. The Senate not being able to discouer wherevnto those de∣laies tended, thinking it vaine to expect their assistance any longer, determined to* 3.33 write to Generall. Foscaren that without any longer expectation of the conuenti∣on of the fleets, so soone as the Prouidator Souranza should returne to Corfoù, he should put to sea, to encourage their subiects, and assure their owne territories, & proceeding warily, to embrace such occasions as God shold offer him, for the ho∣nor and profit of the Commonwealth. Foscarin receiuing this commandement & tired with his idle aboad there, so soon as the Prouidator Souranza & Colonna came to Corfou, propounded the departure of the nauy into the Leuant, wherevnto all* 3.34 men consenting, they began to consult about their iourney. But Antonio Colonna [ 40] did freely and with great affection vtter his good meaning towards the affaires of the league, and in particular to the profit & aduancement of the Venetian Com∣monwealth, much bewayling the time lost and the diminution of their forces: ne∣uerthelesse he willed them to hope well, assuring them that the Spanish Kings in∣tention was honorable, and the Pope very earnest in soliciting him, and that Don Iohn with the residue of the fleet would shortly meet them: yet though the Popes subiect, and seruant to the King of Spaine, he was resolued to spend his life in that enterprise, it importing the Venetians particular seruice, whom hee knew were more interessed in that warre then any other.

Generall Foscarani replied, that the State was well acquainted with the Pope [ 50] * 3.35 and Catholike Kings loue, and they of the States affection and inclination to the league, as the proceeding herein testified: but Colonnas vertue, zeale to the com∣mon good of Christendome, and particular affection to the Venetian Com∣monwealth, was not only manifested to themselues, but to the whole world, by

so many noble seruices in aduancement of the league: yet himselfe could not choose but lament, that so many fayre occasions presented, they had not imbraced them as they deserued. But since it was fruitlesse to call backe time past, and they not able to remoue the impediments detayning D. Iohn in Sicely, the onely re∣medy hereof is to redeeme delayes past with present expedition, and to set for∣ward against the enemy inferior to themselues both in number and vallor. And seeing it hath pleased the diuine prouidence (conducting humaine actions in by∣wayes to vs vnknowne) that the confederate fleeet should bee thus disioyned, let vs see if wee can set vpon them diuided, which they would shunne if we were vni∣ted: If wee can enforce them to retire, it will bee much to vs to haue in this sort [ 10] mainetayned the reputation of the league and confirmed our owne estates with∣out the Spanish ayde. Colonna approued the opinion of Foscarin, confir∣ming* 3.36 it by many arguments: not-with-standing he aduised him to conduct the Galies and Galeots altogether, the Ponents then seruing them fitly for their course.

Gil Andrada stood newtrall betwixt these opinions, onely saying they ought to proceede circumspectly, and not without necessity or aduantage hazard so important an attempt, adding that further inteligence was requisite, by which they were to direct their proceeding but highly commended the councell of Co∣lonna for carrying all their force vnited and well furnished, not exposing them∣selues [ 20] to casualty, concluding that their opinions should sway his.

Thus resoluing to leaue Corfou, the fleet consisted of six score and six Galies, six Galliasses and twenty shippes, and in euery Galley an hundred and twenty Souldiers; it was diuided into three battailes; in the mayne lay the three Gene∣ralls with fiue and forty Gallies: the rest were equaly distributed into two wings, the Prouidator Souranza conducting the right, and Canalis the left, reseruing place in the vantguard for the Gallies of Candy hourely expected, each squadron towed two Galeasses, and part of the shipping, so disposed, that when need requi∣red they might aff•…•…ont the Galleis, yet not to fight without those vessells. The* 3.37 fleet beeing ready to depart, a Fregate from Palermo came to the Venetian Ge∣nerall, [ 30] sent by Placido Ragazz•…•…n, certifiyng him that a Galley from Spaine was come to D. Iohn at Messina, bringing commandatory letters from the King that hee should without any more delay ioyne his whole fleet with that of the Vene∣tians: This was afterwards confirmed by D. Iohns owne letters, written to Marc∣Antony Collonna. Although these newes were pleasing to euery man, yet did they* 3.38 not hinder the resolued departure of the fleet: For vpon the 28. of Iuly the three Generalls left the Gamonisses, where they had tarried for the Prouidator Canalis who was gonne to Ottranto with sixteene Gallies, to take in three thousand foot, vnder the command of Collonell Horatio Aquanina, sonne to the Duke of Atria: which at their arriuall were distributed among the fleet. Before their de∣parture [ 40] from the Gamonisses, Giouan Mocenig•…•… with his Galley was despatch't to Candy to acquaint them with the comming of the Christian fleet, and to make discouery of the enemies, of whom no newes could bee heard. The fleet then vn∣der sayle, the Prouidator Quirini returning from Candy with 30. Galleis, came to it at the entrance of the Channell Viscarda, from whence with a fayre winde (though the towing of the greater vessels did hinder the way) they held on their course to Zant, where hauing no newes of the enemies, and enforced to spend two dayes there, in raking in fresh water, they sent forth 3 other Gallies to disco∣uer. vidz. those of Angelo 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Philipo Leone, Venetians, and that of Romegas a [ 50] knight of Malta.

Vluzzali at that time an•…•…ored vnder the Castle of Maluesia with 200▪ Gallies, and many other lesser Vessels, hauing intelligence that the Christian fleet •…•…ought him, which dis-vnited he thought durst not haue departed frō Corfou, & therefore had sent certaine Gallies towards the Promontory of Mal•…•…a, whom hee 〈◊〉〈◊〉

called back, & stayed in this place to receiue more certaine newes of the enemies.

And beeing truly aduertized that it made towards him, and that already it was come as farre as Cerigo in number of small vessells it was inferior to his, but su∣periour in greater, he determined to put to sea and encounter them. And calling vnto him the cheefe Commanders of his fleet, he encouraged them to battaile, telling them how faire an occasion was offered to purchase immortall glory and credit with their great Lord by breaking the Christian small fleet, which was so audacious to come and seek them, thinking thereby to auoid the spoile of Candy: that his meaning was to leaue the hauen, to order his nauy, and to fight with the daring Christians: this said, he confirmed his words with shew of performance, [ 10] and presently prepared all necessaries for the fight, directing his course towards the Cape of Malea. In the meane time the two Gallies of Suriana and Romegas returned to the fleet at Cerigo, bringing certaine newes that Vluzzali lay in the hauen of Maluesia with 200, saile: Heerevppon, the three Generalls considering that it would redound to their dishonour not to fight with the enemies being so neere, determined with one consent to saile to the Cape of Malea, and to offer the enemies battaile. According to this resolution the whole fleet went to the head of Cerigo called Dragoniera, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the neerest place to the Cape of Malea, from whence they might view the enemies countenance, and entertaine any offe∣red occasion. There early in a morning on the seauenth of August the watch dis∣couered [ 20] * 3.39 the Turkish nauy, sailing towards the Channell of Cerigo, which being but tenne miles from our fleet they verily supposed that it was comming directly to vs ward to fight: the three Generalls commanded the enseignes to be display∣ed, trompets sounded and disposed all things in readinesse for the fight: the fleet beeing thus arranged left the Dragonieras, and made towards the Cape of Male∣a, to be in a more commodious place to offer battaile to the enemies, who at first made shew to accept it, but when the Turks came neerer they alterd their course and went to the Har•…•…es Island which is a rocke neere to the Promontory from whence they came I know not whether they did it for feare or else because Vluz∣zali had no, commission nor intent to fight, but only made a shew thereof to [ 30] maintaine his owne reputation: Some thought that Vluzzali like a skilfull Sea∣man made that retreat to get a westerly wind, which at that time of yeare is wont to blow in those quarters, that he might afterwards by the aduantage thereof in∣uest our nauy: which beeing preuented by the Christian Captaines, and a south∣east wind arrising Vluzzali was enforced to alter his determination, and beeing come to the point of the Isse of Cerigo towards the west, he thwarted the Chan∣nell which lies betwixt the Harts Island, and that of Cerigo, and shut in that large space of Sea of ten miles, and turning his prowes, towards the Christian fleet, he diuided his nauy into three great squadrons, consisting of equall number of vessells, and there attended them. Both fleets were resolued, the one not to fight [ 40] without the Galeasses, and the other not to come neere those hot vessells, who the yeare before had done them such mischeefe. This stay of the enemies did pro∣fit our men, who thereby had time to order the fleet in better forme; and within •…•… while after, the wind proouing fauorable to them, they set foreward and came so neere to one another, that the shotte flew from both sides: but our men being sca•…•…ted of wind, could not come forewards without deuiding the great 〈◊〉〈◊〉 from the lesse. The Turkish fleet consisted of 200, saile among which were 160▪* 3.40 well armed Gallies, the rest were lesser vessells 〈◊〉〈◊〉 among them. That of the Christians exceeded not the number of 127. light Gallies, but they had six Gale∣asses, and 22. shippes of warre excellently armed. Both these fleets for many res∣pects [ 50] were thought to be in a manner equall, Vluzzali meaning nothing lesse then to fight, yet fearing by open flight to dishonour his great maister, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 encrease the Christian glory▪ like a polli•…•…que captaine, made shew of that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉, for seeming 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he did 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉

and still keeping the prowes of his Gallies vpon them by little and little he gaue back; and by the approach of night, and by a warlike stratagem which hee vsed* 3.41 (for hee sent one Galley bearing a lanthorne a contrary way, to make them think that he followed with the rest) he escaped at his pleasure. About the same* 3.42 time Sigismond King of Poland dyed without issue male, wherevppon Charles the French King desirous to procure that Crowne for his brother the Duke of An∣io•…•…, sent his Ambassadors thither. But to returne to the enemies. They were descried the next morning sailing towards the arme of Meina. Our men hauing kept at Sea al night sailed to Cerigo, enforced to take in fresh water, and to refresh their tired rowers, where continuing all that day and a pecce of the next, spies [ 10] * 3.43 brought word that they had discouered the enemies not farre from thence, wher∣vppon they speedily imbarked their soldiers and went to meet them: but their la∣bour beeing fruitlesse, they lay all night at Sea in order of battaile, and the next day which was the tenth of August by day breake they discried them at the Cape of Matapan, lying with the poopes of their Gallies to land-ward. Vluzzali per∣ceiuing that the Christians had discouered him, shot off certaine warning peeces to call his men aboord, and ordered all things for battaile. The Christians ap∣proching the Turks came forth of the Hauen with their fleet diuided into three battailes, whereof the lest wing was a great way extended to the Sea, the right [ 20] wing kept neere to the maine, wherein was Vluzzali him-selfe, comming on faire and softly, somtime purposely stearing his course to draw the Christian Gal∣l•…•…es from the Galeasses and shipps. The Turke fearing nothing more then the Galeasses, commanded both his wings to fetch a great compasse about, the one towards the right, and the other towards the left, aloof from the Galeasses and shipps, which being preuented by the Christians, by turning their wings likewise in manner of a Crescent, their mayne battaile fronted that of the Turkes. The wings of the Turkes fleet being thus diuided from their battaile seemed very ad∣uantageous for the Christians: which Generall Foscarini (ready to lay hold on a∣ny faire occasion) perceiuing, requested Collonna and Andrada, that not tarrying for the shippes and Galeasses, they would with him vpon the sodaine assaile the [ 30] enemies battaile, depriued of the wings, hoping to breake it ere they could ar∣riue to rescue it, and with couragious speeches entreated them to follow his councell. The Generalls encouragement and aduice was ioyfully receiued by all the hearers, but Collonna and Andrada said, that it was dangerous so to doe, for feare of drawing the enemies three battailes vpon them at once, being not able to resist them without the help of the Galeasses and shippes, and that therefore without those vessells they would by no meanes hazard the fortune of the bat∣taile. The wings of the Christians in turning about to confront those of the ene∣my, were somwhat disordred, which the Turkes perceiuing went about with cer∣taine [ 40] Gallies to circumuent the stragglers, which Souranza noting, went against them with foure Gallies, and made a fierce fight, in the midst whereof, fearing to be enclosed with forty of their Gallies making towards him, he was presently re∣lieued by 20. Gallies and two of the Galeasses, whose murthering shot made such hauock among them, as in a small time 18. of their Gallies were rent and torne,* 3.44 whereat the Turks being amazed returned as though they had rather fled then re∣treated. One of Souranzaes Gallies was shot through in this fight, himselfe retur∣ning againe to his Squadron. The Christians had determined not to ioyne bat∣taile without their Galeasses and tall shipps, which Vluzzali well vnderstood, as well by the fugitiues and his owne spies, as by their manner of sayling. And he [ 50] him selfe though he were willing to fight, yet the better to frustrate the Christi∣ans deseignes, who drew with them their Galeasses and other greater vessells; he sent his vessels of burthen to Maluesia, wherby he freed himselfe of a great bur∣then, and made him-selfe apt to take or leaue fight at his owne pleasure The day growing to an end, Vluzzali perceiuing that he had done enough for that

time, both for the allaying of the Christian heate, and encouragement of his own soldiers, in seemely order as one not afraid, sailed with his whole fleet together to Corona. And the Chris∣tians retired to Cerigo.

The end of the first Booke of the seuenth Decade.

[ 10]

The Contents of the second Booke of the seuenth Decad. [ 20]

VLVZZALI determineth to assaill Don Iohn ere hee should come to the fleet. Difficulties made by those of the Christian Nauy to meet with Don Iohn to free him from that incounter. Don Iohn with the Spanish forces comes to Corfoù. The resolution of the Confederate Captaines. Vluzzali resolues not to fight with the Confederats. Those of the league resolue to assaill the towne and Castle of Modon. The Confederate [ 30] fleet staies in the Hauen of Nauarin. Nauarin is beseeged. The Confederates raise their campe from before Nauarin, and determine to returne into the West. Vluzzali after the retreat of the Christian fleet returneth to Constantinople. Don Iohn returnes to Naples, and Collonna goeth into Spain. The Venetians complaine to te Pope of the meane proceeding of the Spanish fleet. The State of Dalmatia during the warre. A fort builded by the Turkes at Catharr a is raized by the Venetians. Conference of peace with the Venetian Bayly at Con∣stantinople. Peace or warre is propounded in the councell of Tenne. The Prin∣ces [ 40] of Christendome hauing intelligence of the Venetians practises of peace with the Turke goe about by their offers to interrupt it. Of what efficacy the or ation of Prince Mocenigo was concerning that subiect. The causes mouing the Senate to condescend to peace. Peace is made betwixt the Venetians and Turkes. And lastly the Articles thereof.

[ 50]

[ 10] The second Booke of the seuenth Decade of the History of Uenice.

WHILEST the Christian fleete remained at Cerigo, it had in∣telligence* 3.45 that Vluzzali had taken one of our F•…•…egats which had acquainted him how that Don Iohn was comming to the fleete, where-vpon hee prepared to meete him. Colonna and [ 20] Gly Andrada being moued at these newes, propounded, that all other matters being laid aside, they were to depart thence with* 3.46 the greatest number of Gallies to meet with Don Iohn and free him from that danger. This councell was reiected by the Venetian Captaines, saying, that to eschew an vncertaine danger, they exposed the fleet, and all the force of the confederats to a manifest perill; seeing that the great vessells could not saile from Cerigo by reason of a contrary winde, nor yet remaine there in safety, the Gallies being reduced to a smaler number with sundry other alegations, which were not alowed by Colonna nor Andrada: for they thought that they might safely carry away an hundred Gallies with them to Zant, and at one time [ 30] secure Don Iohns arriuall, and yet send the great vessells to Candy which was an easie matter to be done, they saying that this was the best adui•…•…e for the easie con∣uention of the confederate fleet.

Whilest this important businesse was vnresolued, a Fregat opportunely ar∣riued from Don Iohn aduertizing them that hee could not depart from Messina till the first of August. Though this newes did cleere the former difficulties among the Captaines, yet did it not wipe out discontent from their mindes: for they like-wise vnderstood, that Don Iohn had no meaning when he should arriue to go* 3.47 farre with his Gallies, but by letters expresly commanded the Admirall•…•…, to come and meete him; which by reason of contrary winds especially, they being to carry [ 40] along with them so many great vessells, could not be done without much losse of time, danger and distast to those Islanders subiect to the Venetians, forsaking them at such a time when the enemy was so strong at Sea and at their doores. Not-with-standing, they generally resolued to obey Don Iohns command: but it being an impossibillity to carry the great vessells with them, they determined first to leaue them safely in Candy, and from thence to direct their course to Zant. Ne∣uer-the-lesse this resolution was not afterwards affected, by reason of new intelli∣gence of the enemies fleet, which was descried not farre from the Cape of Malea, which verily perswaded them that they were going to intercept D. Iohn, whervpon the Christian fleet dislodged, and went to the arme of Meina from whence Vluz∣zali [ 50] was newly departed. From thence being fauored with a faire South-East wind, within three daies they arriued at Zant, where contrary to their hope not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with Don Iohn but receiuing a new commandement to come to him to Cephalonia, they were enforced to leaue the great vessells there, though in great danger to bee taken by the enemies, who vpon the least inckling thereof would

not haue failed to returne to seaze on them: which being likely to happen, some of the cheefe of the Spanish fleet were of opinion, that seeing it was an hard mat∣ter* 3.48 to secure them, to send backe to haue them burnt; But Generall Foscarin de∣testing this councell, sent the Prouidator Quirini thither with fiue and twenty Gailies to saf•…•…-conduct them to the fleet.

From Cephalonia they went to Corfoù, whither Don Iohn was come on the ninth of August with fifty fiue Gallies, thirty three shippes, and fifteene thousand foot-men, who though at first he could hardly dissemble his discontent, for that they had not waited his comming, but had like to haue inforced him for want of sufficient forces to haue gone alone into the leuant, and to remayne idle at Cor∣foù, [ 10] to the derogation (as he said) of his reputation and greatnesse, was neuer-the∣lesse at last content to forget what was past, and seemed very carefull and desirous to enterprize any honorable or important action, for the profit and seruice of the league, much amplifiing it in words, because it was publikely reported thorow the army, thnt he came but onely for a shew, and not with intent or commission to exploit any thing, and that he had euer vsed delaies and excuses, eschewing all occasions of assailing the enemy, or of imploying him-selfe in any certaine en∣terprize; which suspitions did dayly more and more encrease, all men perceiuing, after so many delaies, that he referred all resolutions to the arriuall of the Duke of Sessa and his Gallies from Spaine. But the Venetians told him that their forces [ 20] * 3.49 there, were more then sufficient, for, vnited, they amounted to the number of a hundred ninty foure Gallies, eight Galleasses, besides forty fiue ships, to weet thirty Spanish and fifteene Venetians. All these Vessells before their departure from the Gomenisses were drawne into forme of battaile: The three Generalls* 3.50 lay in the maine with 62. Gallies; the Marquis Santa Cruz conducted the right wing, and the Prouidator Souranza the left, and in each wing were fifty two Gallies: Petro Iustiniano Generall of Malta commanded the vantgard with sixe Galeasses, Iuan de Cardona and Nicolo Donato led the rereward with twenty two Gallies: Don Rodrigo de Mendoca, and Adriano Bragadino had charge of the shippes, determining neuer-the-lesse to carry them to Zant, and there to [ 30] leaue them, intending to vse some of them for the transportation of victu∣all and munition. In this order the fleete departed from Paxu on the eleuenth of September, vncertaine as yet what course to hold, vnlese it were to set forwards to incounter with the enemy, who, by their Gallies sent to discouer, were reported to li•…•… at Modon and Nauarine, diuided and in great want of all necessaries, espe∣tially of men, most of whome were dead, and gone away, wherevpon they remai∣ned safely there till the arriuall of new supplies.

These newes did greatly reioyce the whole fleet: thinking that a fit occasion was offered to ouerthrow the enemies, presuming that the Turkes hauing inteligence of the conuention of the Confederate fleet, much superior to theirs in [ 40] strength, would according to their custome returne to Constantinople to winter in the streight, hauing gotten honor by twice confronting the Christian Nauy, and making shew to fight. Some of Don Iohns Councellors did afterwards make vse of these reasons to impaire the credit of their former intelligence, confirmed by many euident signes: where vpon by giuing too great authority to those* 3.51 men, their departure was delaied, to the great preiudice of the enterprize, and yet euery man consest, that the onely hope of happinesse consisted in the spee∣dy execution thereof, not giuing the enemies any time to flie or vnite them∣selues because a suddaine and vnlook't for assault would more terrifie and disor∣der them.

The Captaines then presently determined to set forward, and sayling on their [ 50] course vndescryed from Zant, to fall sodainely on the Isle Sapienza, seated be∣twixt Nauarin and Modon, to shutte vp the enemies passage, and keepe them from helping one another. But the execution of this deseigne was

so long delaied, and the fleet went so slowly for ward, as when by day breake it should haue beene at Sapienza it was 〈◊〉〈◊〉 come to Prodaua, where being dis∣cried by those of the Castle of Nauarin, the Turkes that were their had time to* 3.52 retire in safety to Modon, passing along in the view of our Nauie, which seeing them come forth, and doubting that Vluzzali would offer them battaile, ordred all their squadrons, and after some small stay, our vant-gard set forward, and com∣ming neere to the enemies, discharged their ordnance vpon them, to draw them to fight: but the Turkes hauing noe such intent, and finding no aduantage, retired vnder the protection of the Castle of Modon. After the enemies retreat ther arose [ 10] great 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and difficulties among the Captaines concerning, their proceeding, thinking it a dangerous and impossible matter to enter into the Channell of Modon to fight with the enemies fleet, the entrance whereof, narrow of it selfe,* 3.53 was flanqued with great store of ordnance, where vpon the Generall knowing that the enemy could not be enforced to fight, determined to retire to Sapienza and to enter the Hauen, the two wings being gone afore. Vluzzali perceiuing the Confederates retreate, came forth with fifty Galleis to assaile our Vantgard which lag'd behind; but so soone as Don Iohn espied him, giuing signall to the fight hee 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his prowes towards the enemies: Vluzzali who came not forth to fight, perceauing our battailes ranged, on a sodaine returned from whence hee came doing it very adui•…•…edly, as well because night approached, as by reason of a [ 20] great fogge that arose, which enforced our men to keepe aloofe to sea ward, the shores on both sides belonging to the enemy.

The next morrow the sea being calme, the Confederate fleet went to the Gulph of Coron to take in water at the mouth of the riuer Pamisus, some foure miles from Coron, and to conuoy those that went for water (it being in the enemies country,) they landed certaine foote-men, conducted by Francisco Andriana campe Maister, to intercept whome, and for the gard of Coron Vluzzali had sent thither a thousand fiue hundred Ianizars, and two hundred horse, with whom they often 〈◊〉〈◊〉, among whome the valor and prowesse of Charles of Lor∣raine* 3.54 Duke of Mayenne, did shew it selfe, who at that time accompanied with di∣uers [ 30] French Gentlemen was in the army as a Voluntary.

Our men hauing warred returned to the Gallies, and before their departure bestowed certaine cannon shot vpon the forte of Coron, and sailing neere to the Isle of Cuprare passed along in the enemies view, diuided into three battaillons one after another, because the place was very narrow, and came a∣gaine to the South-East side of Sapienza, comming to an anko•…•… right ouer against Modon. But all men perceiuing that to tarry long in that place, hoping to draw the enemies forth to fight, was but lost time, and very dangerous, the Venetian Generall made a proposition to land tenne thousand foote, to seaze on the hill at the point of the Channell, from whence it was most likely to annoy the enemy [ 40] for that the place was weakely garded, which would not be defended by Vluzzali; who would not vnman his Gallies for feare of greater danger, the enemy being so neere him.

The Spaniards reiected this proposition, saying, that they ought not to weaken the fleet by vnshipping such multitudes, espetially the enimy bing so neere, where∣vpon Foscare•…•… perceiuing all his propositions to be crost, and considering that ere long the fleet would be dissolued without any notable exploit, resolued, that in a matter of so great consequence, where hope of good successe was greater then the danger, to hazard the entring of the Channell of Modon, and thereto assail the enemies: this being by him like-wise propounded, hee offered to expose him∣selfe [ 50] formost to the danger, and to leade the way to others: though at first all men allowed this and some straue to haue the honor of the first charge, yet it tooke none effect so as the fleet without doing ought at al departed thence and went in∣to the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and spatious Hauen of Nauarin, free from the danger of the Castle

shot, seated on an high place farre from thence: our men lying there, the enemies fleet was as it were beseeged beneath Modon, so as it could not returne to Con∣stantinople, but indured much scarcity, and was in danger of shipwrack, and that which was worse, it could not come forth but our men might at their pleasure* 3.55 fight with it.

The Turkes in the meane time sent diuers Harquebusiers that knew the wayes, who comming vp by the mountaines neere to Nauarin, attempted to anoy and hinder our men from taking in water. Heerevppon wee landed fiue thousand foot vnder the command of Paul Iordano Vrsino, who repulsing the enemies se∣cured the Contrey, whereby matters were brought to such a passe, as there was [ 10] no doubt made but that the Victory would ere long fall to the Confederates: This was rumord ouer Christendome, and al men reioyced thereat, not as a thing hoped for, but already effected. In the end, the enterprize vppon Nauarin was propounded: but considering afterwards that if it should succeed prosperously, it would not greatly profit the common cause, they turned to that of Modon, on whose conquest depended their cheefe hope; because that the enemies fleet bee∣ing driuen from thence could not auoid fight: therefore they determined to as∣saile the Towne & Castle of Modon, assaulting it at one time by land and sea, and to the end that the soldiers which lay in the shippes might bee imployed in that enterprize, Giouan Moceniga was presently sent vnto Zant to fetch them to [ 20] the fleet.

In the meane time Ioseffo Bonello the Florentine made an engin, by ioyning foure Gallies together, on which were planted tenne Cannons, fortified with Pa∣rapets, wherewith to approach and batter the Castle of Modon, and at the same time to secure the passage of the other Gallies, which beeing by this engin defen∣ded* 3.56 from the enemies ordnance, might enter the Channell and come to the as∣sault. But so soone as it was finished, they perceiued many defaults in it, which made it vnseruiceable: for first, they could not guide it on the water, next, the∣waight of the burthen and ordnance was likely to sinke it, neither could they make it ankorable by reason of the Seas great depth: but the greatest difficulty [ 30] was to bring it to the place appointed, whether it was to bee towed by the Gal lies, which beeing not able to make way, were exposed to the mercy of the ene∣mies ordnance, planted at the mouth of the Channell, which would easily haue sunke them: so that dispairing of the seruiceablenesse thereof, and hauing intelli∣gence that the Beglarbey of Grecia was comming thither with a thousand horse to frustrate their deseigne, they gaue ouer the worke.

That which most tormented the Venetians, and frustrated their hope, was a ru∣mor spred through the fleet that the Spaniards victuals would not long hold out, who said, that in regard thereof, it behooued them to prouide for their departure and beeing desirous to leaue some token of victory behind them, which might en∣courage [ 40] the inhabitants of Morea, and put them in hope of better successe, they determined to beseege Nauarin, so often before propounded, and still reiected, in regard of the small reward of the conquest.

The Castle of Nauarin in old time called Pila, is seated on a mountaine toppe,* 3.57 which extending towards the South-east, makes the Hauen like to a semicircle, and is stronger by situation, then art: This, the Turkes carefully garded, for the commodiousnesse of the hauen, lying in the very hart of Morea. There are two wayes leading to the Castle, that on the left hand, is not farre from the Sea, the other behind it towards the firme land, lies by a lake not farre from thence, and is very narrow and hidden. [ 50]

The Prince of Parma had charge of this enterprize, who landing two thousand Spanish and Italian foot and tenne peeces of battery, took the open, and plaine way to cut off supplies from the enemies: but he either neglected or knew not the other narrow secret way: Iuan di 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and Morett•…•… the Calabrois went

afterwards to make good the passage: but they were on a suddaine assailed by great number of enemies, and with great difficulty came off.

By this meanes aboue two thousand Turkes came to releeue the Castle, who beeing maisters of that narrow passage, did at their pleasures, not onely put in* 3.58 what supplies they thought good, but had leisure to seaze on certaine high places, commanding the wayes, from whence with their small shotte they still annoyed our men, busied in planting the Ordnance, lying open also at the same time to the Castles shot, so that in three dayes they could hardly plant two Canons, and the danger more and more increased, the soldiers wanting rampiers to defend them∣selues; and the enemies numbers still augmented, with whom to their owne great [ 10] disaduantage they were daily enforced to skirmish. This did greatly trouble the confederate Generals, who knew, that to quit the enterprise, would blemish their reputation, and to continue the siege, would not much auaile them; but their greatest difficulty was want of bread, which Don Iohn and his faction dayly ampli∣fying, said, That of necessity they were to depart.

And yet it seemed strange and incredible to most men, that the Spanish Nauy comming lately from Sicily with so many ships, which is the Magazin or Gra∣nary of Italy, should in so short time want bread: or if it were true, that scarcity might easily haue beene supplied, by sending to Tarento for certaine vessels la∣den with Bisket, which the Spaniards themselues reported they had left there. [ 20]

The Venetian Generall, that he might cut of all occasion of the Spaniards de∣parture, offered Don Iohn part of his owne Store, earnestly entreating him to accept his offer, telling him that the rest of his Nauie might bee easily supplyed by those vessels before mentioned. It is not certainly knowne why the Spaniard refused this curtesie, who stopped their eares against all reasonable perswasions which might delay their departure: which they onely intending, discamped from before Nauarin, leauing a safe and open way for Vluzzali to conduct his fleete to Constantinople, and the Honor to bee accounted a skillfull and valiant Captaine.* 3.59 Yet Don Iohn did what he could to cause Generall Foscarin and the Venetians to consent and be well pleased with his departure, assuring him of his earnest desire [ 30] to purchase honor and reputation, whereof Fortune had bereft him, by taking from him the meanes to fight with the enemy; yet, if by the way he did chance to meet with those ships of supplies, he would then willingly embrace any occasion whatsoeuer, to doe some notable seruice to the league, ere hee returned with his* 3.60 fleet into the West: and that though he now wanted opportunity, hee hoped the next yeare to recompence that, which necessity had enforced him to loose.

The Venetian Generall perceiuing his resolution, consented therevnto, be∣cause hee would not giue an occasion to the enemies to thinke that the league was broken, as also for that hee knew himselfe alone too weake to attempt any great matter. Yet, when our men thought least of it, they were more likely then [ 40] euer, to giue the enemy battaile: for at the very instant, when the confederats were vpon departure, they had intelligence that a Spanish ship come from Cor∣fou, was in fight with certaine Turkish Galleys, not farre from Sapienza, where∣vpon all things beeing put in order, the fleete speedily left the Hauen of Nauarin, to rescue the shippe, and to fight with the enemies. Ere our men could get out of the Hauen Vluzzali with three score of his Gallyes, came forth of the channell of Modon, to rescue those that were in fight, and to secure others which hee had sent to scoure the seas. So soone as Don Iohn saw Vluzzali, hee commanded the Prouidator Souranza, to meete him with a certaine number of Galleys, to hinder his comming on any farther, & the Marquis of Santa Cruz, [ 50] and the Prouidator Canalis with their Squadrons, to charge the enemies with fiue and twenty Galleys, who discrying our fleete, left the ship, and betooke themselues to flight.

When Vluzzali saw the Prouidator comming towards him he made a stand, but at last turning his prowes, without any farther delay, he retired vnder the Castle of Modon, being still pursued by our Gallies, who beeing come neere to the towne, bestowed diuers Cannon bullets on it.

The Gallies, which fought with the shippe, beeing light and able to make way, escaped with ease, one excepted, commanded by the Sanzach of Mitelene, ne∣phew to the famous Barbarossa, who fighting longer then any of the rest, and his slaues in hope of liberty rowing slowly, was taken by the Marquis of Sancta Crux: but night approaching, they gaue ouer farther pursute.

Then D. Iohn sounded the retreat and commanded eùery one to returne into [ 10] the hauen of Nauarin, beeing vnwilling to leaue the engin behind, that the ene∣mies might not terme his departure a flight: then the greater vessells beeing forth of the Hauen, and a faire southeast wind blowing he willed them presently to saile to Zant, and himselfe the next morning directed his course thither with the whole fleet, being so desirous to returne home as going a neerer way through the Channell of Giscarda, contrary to the aduise of the skilfullest Marriners, who councelled him to goe to Cephalonia, he escaped a great danger neere to the Gulph of Larta, and there lost one of the Popes Gallies, which was broken to peeces vpon the Rocks of Paxu. [ 20]

Vluzzali after the Confederates departure, freed from all hinderances in his iourney, did without any order put to Sea and came vnto the Cape of Mal•…•…a,* 3.61 where by reason of a contrary northerne wind he was enforced to continue cer∣taine dayes: but in the end hauing a faire Gale, he sailed to Constantinople with an hundred Gallies, where he was with all honour entertained, the Turkes openly term ing themselues Conquerors, for that they had defended Morea and their o∣ther territories, dared (as they said) the Christians oftentimes to battaile, & lastly driuen them forth of their dominions, secured the Sea, and made it nauigable.

The Confederates in the meane time arriued at Corfou the twentith day of October, who though their fleet were augmented with thirteene Gallies, and* 3.62 certaine shipps loden with wheat brought by the Duke of Sessa and Iohn Andrew [ 30] Doria, did neuerthelesse continue their former difficulties, and delayes: for diuers enterprizes were daily propounded in the Councel, without any resolution at al, and among others that of Saint Maura, wherevnto D. Iohn▪ seemed to incline: but the Duke of Sessa by his authority dasht it, saying that the time of yeare was* 3.63 vnfit to beseege townes, or to be at Sea with fleets in an enemies Contrey. The Spaniards in this manner reiected all enterprizes, determining to returne into the west after that the Confederates Fleetes had beene vnited for the space of fifty dayes.

D. Iohn first went to Messina and there lest part of his Gallies he carried the rest to Naples where he dismissed his Italian footmen, and sent the Spaniards and Al∣maines [ 40] * 3.64 to Garrison. Collonna by the Kings commandement went into Spaine; to yeeld an account to his Maiesty of mataers past, and with him to consult on the next yeares war, where he so wisely and nobly behaued himselfe as he got much* 3.65 honor and reputation. The Gallies of the Pope, King of Spaine, and Venetians, remained idle at Corfou, lying rigg'd all winter, that they might be ready at the spring to set forward against the enemies.

This was the successe of the yeare 1572. nothing answerable to the great hope which all men had conceiued of abating the pride and insolency of the Ottoman Empire, wherevppon so soone as the Confederates were gone home the inha∣bitants of Morea who had made insurrections in the Christians behalfe, and ex∣pected [ 50] the successe of the fleet, hauing neither forces in the field, nor strong pla∣ces for defense, running into the mountaines for feare of the Turkish violence, were enforced to yeeld themselues to their mercy, and againe to submit their necks vnder the yoake of a cruel bondage, which they could neuer since shake off.

The Venetians made great complaints to the Pope of the Spaniards delaies,* 3.66 and slow resolutions, but especially of their vnseasonable departure from before Nauarin: they were made by a sollemne Ambassade; sent, according to their custome, to offer their obedience to his Holinesse in the States name. The Pope in their behalfe presently sent Giouan Claudio Gonzaga his Chamberlaine to D. Iohn, to perswade him to tarry there where he was and to expect a Commission from Spaine to returne to winter in the Leuant, the Pope hoping easily to ob∣taine so much of the King of Spaine, seeing that the troubles of Flanders were brought to some good passe: wherevppon his Holinesse did expresly send the Lord of Lansan into Spaine, whose labour was fruitlesse, for the Catholick King, [ 10] hauing already flatly answered the Popes and Venetians Ambassadors, that hee would no more send his fleet so farre from home, would by no meanes alter his resolution, and D. Iohn, not-with-standing the Popes entreaties, well ac∣quainted with the Kings pleasure, pursued his iourney into the West.

In the meane time Generall Venieri, old and sickely, by reason of his former* 3.67 trauailes, obtaining leaue of the Senate, returned to Venice, with same and glory great numbers of Senators going to meet him with the Bucentauro as farre as Saint Anthonies Church, which is the very farthest part of the Citty, where hee was honorably entertained and welcomed according vnto his merrit. [ 20]

During the enterprizes in the Leuant, Dalmatia was not altogether freed from warre: for though there was no forme of an army there, yet the Turkish Ca∣uallery,* 3.68 of the neighbor Gouernments, wasted and spoiled the Cuntrey doing much hurt to the Venetians subiects, wherevppon the Stradiots and foot troops of the Garrisons did often sally to stop their incursions: yet the Turkes and Ve∣netians were of one opinion, that to make any great warre in Dalmatia would not bee to much purpose, the Turkes fearing if they should send any great Army into that Prouince, they might giue the Emperor occasion of suspi∣tion, and cause him to embrace the Confederates party, and to make warre in Hungary. [ 30]

The Venetians of the other side bending all their deseignes on the Leuant, thought that the successe of the affaires of Dalmatia and Albania depended wholly on the warre, knowing very well they could doe little good there, by rea∣son of the strong Garrisons which the enemy ordinarily kept in those Contries: as also for that they hauing, by the industry of Lodouico Grimani, and Iulio Pompeio, wonne the towne of Macarsca of some importance, by reason of the trade of Marchants, and fortefied it, had beene within a while after enforced to abandon the same, beeing to weake to defend it against such huge numbers of enemies. The like successe had the conquest of the fort of Clissa.

Neuerthelesse the Turks omitted no opportunity to anoy the Venetians: and [ 40] being not then strong enough to take Citties, they inuented other meanes to hurt them as that enterprize vpon the Citty of Catharra, which they resolued to get by long seege, keeping victualls from it by land did testifie: They often like∣wise atttempted to shut them from the passage to the Sea, by building a fort at* 3.69 the mouth of the Channell, but the Venetians did still hinder their worke, till the arriuall of a Turkish Sanzach with great forces, who finished it within three miles of Castel-nouo. The Senate aduertized thereof, and mooued with the dan∣ger, threatning the Citty of Catarra, wrote to Generall Foscarini that he should send forces to raze that fort. He, though it were in the midst of winter, did neuer∣thelesse send the Prouidator Souranza thither with two and twenty Gallies and [ 50] six Galeasses, with whom went Paulo Vrsino, Pompeo Collonna, Moretta the Cala∣brois and other famous Captaines with 4000. foot, with whom Nicholo Suriana Captaine of the Gulph ioyned by the way with foure Gallies. All these vessells arriuing at Ianissa, they landed the soldiers; part of them went with Pompeo Colonna

to seaze on a hill not far off, to stop the passage of those which should come from Castelnouo to releeue the Fort, and the rest went with Nicholo Gambara, to a cer∣taine place neere at hand, whither some companies of soldiers of the Garrison of Catarra were to come, with other forces assembled by Zacharia Salmone Pro∣uidator of the Citty: After this Souranza entring the Channell with 18. of his best Gallies, his Squadron going formost, passed along beyond the fort, from whence though they made many shot vppon the fleet, yet did they no great hurt to it, which went and lay in a safe and commodious place to batter it by land and Sea.

It was 150 paces square euery way, without any flankers, but so built, as [ 10] on the one side it battered the Gallies entring into the Channel, and on the other plaid vppon them beeing entred, it was well prouided with ordnance, and mand with two hundred soldiers. The Venetians resolued to batter it at one time by land and sea. The morrow after their arriuall early by day breake they beganne* 3.70 their battery, and within a while the soldiers went to the assault with ladders, which the enemies for a time defended, but beeing at last enforced to quit the place, the Venetians tooke it.

There were found in it diuers small peeces of ordnance and 18. great peeces, which the Prouidator presently sent to Venice, and by a mine ouerthrew the fort* 3.71 to the foundations, which beeing speedily done, and leauing a sufficient Garrison [ 20] in Cattarra, hee returned with his Gallies to Corfou where the fleet remained. Diuers consultations were made at Rome that winter, concerning preparations for warre against the next Summer, knowing what time they had giuen the ene∣mies to repaire their losse receiued at the battell of Lepanto: therfore they conclu∣ded to augment the Confederates force, to the number of 300. Gallies & 60000. footmen: there was likewise a proposition made to send a hundred Gallies betimes into the Leuant, not staying till all the fleet were vnited, which should be at Sea before the enemies, who as it was reported, did intend to keepe all supplies from Candy, and to wast the Venetians Sea-coasts: But all these propositions vanisht into aire. [ 30]

The Venetians, not meaning wholly to depend on fortune, did speedily place strong Garrisons in the Castles and forts of the Island, and sent many foot-com∣panies thither, in the meane time earnestly soliciting the Pope to augment the force of the league, and that it would please him to assist them with certaine summes of money toward their great expense, putting him in mind how that his Predecessors, had in former times vpon lesse occasion giuen leaue to sell Church∣possessions. His Holinesse not altogether granting their demands, did permit 100000. Ducats belonging vnto the tenthes of the Clergie vnder their Dominions.

At the same time diuers Conferences had beene held at Constantinople con∣cerning [ 40] peace: for the Turkes hauing intelligence of the vniting of the Christian fleet, and doubting the successe of warre, had oftentimes motioned peace to the* 3.72 Venetian Baily there: the Visier Bascha seemed then, more then euer, desirous of it, whose authority and reputation had beene much augmented since the battell; wherevpon contrary to the opinion of others, he disswaded the great Lord from warre. He thought it then a fit time to motion it, whilst Selim danted with the vn∣lookt for losse of the battaile seemed to incline to peace: and that the Venetians likwise vpon some aduantage might wish for it.

This inclination of Mahomet once knowne, the people, who by reason of the discomodities of war did greatly desire it, bruted it abroad ouer the Citty, that [ 50] the force of the Confederate Princes was great: These rumors being entertained as true and worthy credit, by those who wisht for peace, and beeing related to Selim, induced him to permit it for to bee motioned vnto the Baily Mahomet

therevpon, began freely to conferre with him, making vse therein of the helpe of Ori•…•…bey the chiefe Dragoman, and Rabi Salomon a Iewish Phisition, who beeing familiar in the house of the Visier Bascha, were often imployed in affaires of great importance.

The Bayly hauing aduertised the Senate heereof, it seemed not greatly to like* 3.73 of the motion, desiring rather to continue warre; prouoked therevnto on hope of better successe, making account that their late victory would giue greater re∣putation to the Confederate forces: Yet when they considered how many no∣table opportunities they had lost, and spent much time vnprofitably, they were willing to change their opinions, and wi•…•…h new resolution to lend an eare to these [ 10] motions of peace, the better to secure their owne, exposed to the vncertaine euents of fortune. This was propounded in the Councell of Tenne, that it might with more secrecy and greater speed bee effected.

In this Councell the Senators were at first of various opinions. For many of* 3.74 them were possest with their former hotte inclination to warre, by reason of the promises of Christian Princes, who doubting this treaty, did then more then euer, promise to assist the league: Wherevpon Lorenzo de Priuli sent Ambassa∣dor into Spaine insteed of Leonardo Donato, Secretary Perez, and Doctor Velasco, who at that time managed the most important affaires of that Court, visited him* 3.75 more then ordinary, making such impression in the new Ambassador, as them∣selues [ 20] desired, and vsed all their skill to perswade him, that their King had euer stood affected to the league, and at that instant more resolute then euer to pursue the warre, affirming that his Maiesty had written to his officers in Italy, to make speedy preparations, and to auoyde the long delayes of the precedent yeare: and that Don Iohn on the other side had promised to ioyne with the Venetians, with the onely force of Italy, not tarrying for that of Spaine. The Emperor likewise,* 3.76 who by no offers could till then be diuerted from his resolution, suspecting only that the Venetians had an intent to make peace with the Turke, told the Venetian Ambassador resident in his Court, that he would ioyne with the league. These new offers caused the Venetians to proceed slowly in the treaty of peace already [ 30] propounded, but Prince Mocenigo, euer inclining more to peace then to the league, assembling on a time the Councell of Ten, spake to them in this manner.* 3.77

When at first we determined to take armes for our own defence, and with a ge∣nerous courage imbraced warre against Selim, I do not thinke it was done with in∣tent to continue it long, but onely to make proofe of fortune, to manifest the va∣lour of our own Common-wealth, the strength of Christian Princes, and to pur∣chace to our owne State and all Christendome greater safety against the power of that insolent common enemy. It is certaine that war is ordained for peace, and that the end of our dangerous trauailes is quiet and safety. I now suppose that ex∣perience of matters hapned at that time, may more then sufficiently instruct vs [ 40] what our condition will be, if wee continue warre any longer, what end wee may hope thereof, and what recompence for so great expences, & trauailes. The first yeare, vainly presuming to ioyne our force with strangers, for the releefe of the Kingdome of Cyprus, we lost the famous citty of Nicosia: neuerthelesse without declining from our former resolution, wee continued our warlike preparations, drawne to it by hope of entring into a strict confederacy with Christian Princes, thereby to recouer our late losse. God, miraculously gaue vs such a victorie ouer our enemies, as wee could not haue desired a greater; and yet I know not by what fault or misfortune of our owne, the citty of Famagosta was taken, and we enfor∣ced to quit the entire possession of that kingdome, to the vanquished enemy: but [ 50] the ioy and contentation of winning the battaile, tooke from vs the feeling of a greater and more certaine losse: Wherevpon with like speed and earnestnesse, we made great preparations the third yeare, augmented our Army, and spared for no cost▪ Wee may now perceiue what good all this hath done vs.

Our Galleys haue beene a long time idle at Corfou, expecting the Confederate supplies: and then when we hoped most, that all difficulties being taken away, our forces would ioyne, & set forwards against the enemy, we were enforced to leaue our Islands as their prey, & to call home our fleet, with greater blemish to our re∣putation, & expence of lost time, then the vniting of our forces would haue pro∣fited vs: and lastly, when fortune hath offered vs many vnhoped for faire occasi∣ons, to ouer-throw our enemies, wee haue beene constrained to omit them, beeing forsaken by our friends, who vnseasonably dislodged from the Hauen of Nauarin, with no honorable, but a very preiudicious resolution. But what need [ 10] I to rehearse things so lately done? Wee are reduced to such extremity, as wee are not able alone to maintaine warre against the Turkes, and wee know by ex∣perience, that the company of others, who should ayde and assist vs, is rather a burthen and impediment to vs: at first, it promiseth much, but afterwards it growes cold, and in deed, doth rather encrease, then diuert our dangers. Wee were perswaded that there would not onely be a sure correspondency, betwixt the Pope, Catholick King and vs, but that the confederacie of these three Poten∣tates, would haue incited all other Christian Princes to take armes with vs against the common enemy, especially after that notable victory, which all men thought would haue procured the Turkes finall ruine, but beeing now confirmed by [ 20] sundry proofes wee may perceiue, that this opinion was rather conceiued accor∣ding to our owne desire, then the certainty of the matter.

Shall wee still then continue in the same error, and ground the conseruation of the State, and the whole fortune of our affaires, on vncertaine foundations, and hopes which haue so often deceiued vs? Questionlesse, it was a generous resolution, not to grant the insolent demands of Selim, constantly to maintaine the cause of Christendome, in no sort to degenerate from our Ancestors, who haue euer brauely pursued those enterprises, by which they hoped to purchase greatnesse and glory to their Common-wealth▪ but now, when wee haue cou∣ragiously taken armes, and with fortunate successe wonne the battaile, hoping [ 30] for greater matters, (I know not by what disaster) wee can reape no fruite thereof, and in fighting wee hazard all, and by winning gaine nothing: to con∣tinue still the same deseignes and dangers without any profit, after that the op∣portunity, which together with the victory offered it selfe for the execution of some great enterprise, hath already escaped vs, will bee rather thought obsti∣nate rashnesse, then any zeale to Christian piety, or desire of true honour.

If wee consider the quality of our forces and State, wee shall easily perceiue, that there is nothing more hurtfull or ill beseeming it, then to draw the warre out in length. Because that our affaires doe still impaire, the leagues forces depending on sundry councels, and many times on contrary respects, and al∣though [ 40] they are great, doe neuerthelesse become vaine and vnprofitable: and then the discommodity of maintaining them for our part, is very great, by reason of the excessiue expences wee are to bee at for want of men, and especially Row∣ers. Most part of whom the late warre hath exhaust, not to bee supplyed but with great cost, and vncertaine whether with any: But if wee shall view our owne estate, in a true, not flattering glasse, wee shall discerne it to bee rather great then strong, at least not equiualent to such an enemy. An other maine consi∣deration, is the distraction and remotenesse of our territory, neerer danger then succour, requiring diuerse Armies to secure so diuerse places. How then is it probable continuance of this warrre shall not more weaken vs, then the ene∣my? prosecution of the late victory in deed gaue vs some hope, for so wee [ 50] might haue dispatcht it? But how this opportunity is lost, and the effects of loo∣sing it ate, experience doth teach vs. Now our hope is fledde to the enemy. Can then any man doubt, but that wee should welcome peace offering hir selfe to vs?

Since we cannot protect our State by warre, why should we not by peace; wee know that the Bascha Mahomet, alwaies inclining to amity, hath vsed their late ouerthrowes as inducements to draw his master to entertaine milder conditions. Yf we now reiect his offer, he may perhaps reiect vs heereafter. Who could haue immagined that the Turks out of the wracks and ashes of their last Fleet, could so sodainly haue raised another, and with it not only secure themselues, but in∣uade vs? what cleerer demonstration can we haue of their Potency, or more insal∣lible prediction of the warres euent? if after ouerthrow they could doe all this, what might we expect after victory? I would entreat those which stand for war [ 10] to satisfie me if domestick occasions imploy the aid of Spaine at home, or any priuate respect diuert it to Affrick, our props then failing, how are wee able of our selues to stand? Dependance vppon others may make vs neglect our owne strength, and when danger is at our doore, it will bee to late to call for helpe from Spaine, Portugall or Germany: or for them to preuent those Mischeefs which wee already suffer.

These infirmities the enemy discouering, he will grow more insolent, and bee so farre from offering that he will not accept any conditions of peace. It is pollicy therefore, my noble Lords, since we haue not reaped the fruit of victory, to pro∣uide that we vndergoe not the calamities of ouerthrow, that the expence of so [ 20] much blood, time and treasure, may purchace safety, hough not conquest. Wee must not to confidently rely vppon the hazard of battaile, whose euent is euer vncertaine, som-times not greatly profitable. Let vs rather trust to the cleernesse of reason then blindnesse of fortune, alwayes an enemy to great actions. Peace may perhaps set open some fairer breach to warre heereafter. The world can make no dishonourable construction heereof, nor our Consederates condemne vs, but themselues, wee hauing alwaies beene as foreward in the warre as they backward. Who can tax vs beeing neglected by others if we secure our selues? We follow but the president of the Spaniards, and end the warre as they shunne it. Nay one of the Catholick Kings cheefe Councelors hath made our Apologie heerein, who suspecting this treaty, affirmed, his maister had no cause to censure [ 30] ill, if the Venetians without violating his, entertained the Turkes freind∣ship vpon honorable termes. If this peace should soone breake, yet we should get breath; a thing necessary to the weaker and wearied party: All things vnder the Moone are infected with her mutability, mens councells and actions altring like themselues.

Let vs then imbrace this meanes of our safety; God in whose protection this State hath euer beene, hath vsed this scourge of war to discipline, not wound vs, and will at his leisure open some vnexpected way of farther happinesse.

The Princes speech together with his authority was of great force: wherevp∣on* 3.78 the Senate sent presently a new commission to the Baily to reuiue the treaty [ 40] of peace with ample power to conclude it on the aboue mentioned conditions. The great & sundry difficulties arising about the renewing of the fleet did much farther this resolution, in respect of the great numbers that were dead: the like* 3.79 did newes from Flanders, where by reason of new rebellions, and aid, which the Germaines were ready to send them, all places were in vprore, in regard whereof the Spaniards had turned all their deseignes thither: moreouer, the Senate at the same time had intelligence that a Chiaus from Constantinople arriued at the Emperors Court, whom, (though it was afterward knowne that his comming was Concerning Moldauia) they suspected came to craue passage for the Turkish army which was said to be comming into Frioul.* 3.80

These aduertizements did coole their heate who were yet willing to continue the league, so as with generall consent euery one inclined to the treaty of peace: The Bishop of Aix, Ambassador for the French King, was presently accquainted with this determination, he was lately returned from Constantinople to Venice,

where he receiued a new Commission from his King, to returne to the great Lords Porte, and in his name to further this treaty, wherevnto his Maister had often aduised the Venetians to hearken.

The Bayly hauing intelligence of the Senates determination, was commanded so soone as the French Ambassador should arriue at Constantinople, to conferre with him concerning the treaty of peace, and as occasion should bee offered, to make vse of his Kings mediation and authority. The Turke in the meane time hauing notice, that the Bishop was to returne to Constantinople, presently sus∣pected that hee brought new conditions of peace more aduantagious for them, wherevpon, their former treaties with the Baily were by little and little neglected, [ 10] cunningly going about to temporize, concealing their owne intentions. This delay did greatly preiudice the businesse: for they who for their owne particular interest, were desirous to hinder it, alleadged sundry difficulties, especially to Se∣lim, telling him that all things were ready; that it was neither profitable nor ho∣norable at that time, to speake of any accord; whereby the state of the treaty grew euery day from bad to worse, the Turkes propounding very vnreasonable conditions, thereby manifesting how carelesse they were of peace: Therefore they* 3.81 committed the Bayly to straighter keeping, muring vp the windows of his house, placing strong guards about it, handling him very roughly, thinking thereby to [ 20] enforce him to reueale his latest and most secret Commission, or else, the treaty of peace being broken, to hinder him from aduertising the Senate of their war∣like prouisions; or rather, (which is most likely to bee true) to barre his confe∣rence with the Bishop, thinking by this meanes more easily to draw from the French Ambassador, ignorant of what was past, the new conditions which they supposed hee brought with him. So soone as the Bishop arriued, they confer'd with him, and found that he had no other then a generall Commission: but the Visier Basha suspecting that the French for their owne particular interest, would haue an hand in this treaty, & by this good office, bind the Turkes to fauour and assist the Duke of Aniou, the French Kings brother, in the election to the crowne of Poland, would in no sort vse him as an instrument, but effect it by the former [ 30] meanes and mediation of those whom hee had first imployed, namely O∣rimber and Salomon, therefore he renued his treaty with the Bayly, and after* 3.82 sundry propositions and answeres from both sides, peace at last was concluded about mid March, whereby confirming all articles contained in the old Com∣mission, sauing that the castle of Siponto, which the Venetians yet held, should be surrendred to the Turkes.

As for other townes of Albania and Sclauonia with their confines and territo∣ries possest before the warre, should remaine vnto those, who then held them: that all marchants goods should bee restored on both sides; and that the Vene∣tians beside should be bound for three yeares space, to send an 100000. Ducats [ 40] yearely to Constantinople, which the Turkes for their owne greatnesse and re∣putation* 3.83 made most account of. Peace in this sort beeing concluded and signed by Selim, the Bayly dispatched his sonne Francesco to Venice, who arriued there on the fifteenth of Aprill, where it was presently published.

The end of the second Booke of the seuenth Decade.

The Contents of the third Booke of the [ 10] seuenth Decade.

POpe Gregory is displeased for that the Venetians made peace with the Turke. The King of Spaine is highly pleased therewith: The Pope beeing satisfied by an Ambassador sent [ 20] of purpose from Venice, in open consistory doth approue what they had done: The Venetians and Turkes are iealous of each other. Peace is ratified with the Turke. Henry Duke of Aniou is chosen King of Poland, and goes thither: Don Iohns voyage into Affrike where he takes Tunis. The death of Selim the Turkish Emperor. The death of Charles the ninth French King. The King of Polands secret departure towards France. Great triumphs made at Venice at the reception of Henry King of France and Poland. Amurath the Turkish Emperor enuades the Empires territo∣ries: [ 30] Amurath confirmes peace with the Venetians. A great plague at Venice, with the Prince and Senates vow to appease Gods wrath: Great charity of Cardinall Borromeo. The lawes of Venice are reformed, and a new order ta∣ken for the gouernment of matters. The Pope sends a golden Rose to the Vene∣tian Duke: The Venetians decree concerning the Citizens particular expences. The Venetians solicited by the Persians against the Turke will not agree to it. Contention betwixt the Venetians and knights of Malta. The death of Pope Gregory the thirteenth, and creation of Sixtus the fifth: A Dutchesse is [ 40] cruelly murthered in Padua.

The third Booke of the seuenth Decad [ 10] of the Historie of Uenice.

PEACE beeing published, men did differently censure there∣of, measuring it by their owne particular affection: Many, had regard to their owne interest, and others, perseuering in their former hope, that warre would haue procured much good to Christendome, did taxe the Venetians for making peace:* 3.84 but grauer and more iudicious spirits, measured future things by [ 20] experience of matters past, saying that therein they were to be approoued, at least not condemned requiring it for the conseruation of the State, which with∣out this only remedy (Peace) was exposed to very dangerous hazards. But the Pope more then any seemed to be displeased, therewith, and at such time as the Venetian Ambassador came to acquaint him with it, commanded him forth of his presence, and would for that time admit no excuse. The Cardinals and o∣thers of his Court following his President discoursed thereof after their owne various passions.

The Catholike King, knowing by experience how much it importeth Prin∣ces* 3.85 to desire the preseruation of their owne States, did with great iudgement [ 30] and modesty seeme for his part to bee well pleased therewith, saying, that hee doubted not, but that the occasions which mooued the Venetians to doe so were of great importance, hoping that as himselfe had freely imploied his for∣ces for the seruice of Christendome and particular profit of the Venetian State, they likewise in acknowledgement of his loue would be ready to doe the like for him when need should bee: and generally all Spaniards as well at Rome as in Spaine approued it.

Many discoursing why the Spaniards did so modestly carry themselues there∣in, said, that in accusing the Venetians, they feared to vrge them to iustifie their owne cause, and to taxe the actions of some of the confederates the precedent [ 40] yeere: others said, that though the league were broken, they would not for all that wholly forsake the Venetians friendship, whom in other matters they might neede. But I thinke they did it of their owne proude nature beeing willing to let the world see that they did not greatly care for the breach of league, accoun∣ting themselues strong enough without it to make head against the Turkish force.

Now the Pope continuing his displeasure, the Venetians did not shew them∣selues* 3.86 stubborne, but determined to send an expresse Ambassadour to Rome, honorably and reuerently to appease and dispose him to receiue their iustifica∣tions. Nicolo de Ponte was chosen, a man of great yeeres and authority, and at that time Procurator of Saint Marke. Hee beeing arriued at Rome and hauing audience, acquainted his Holinesse with the iust occasions which had* 3.87 mooued the Signory to accept the Turkes offered peace: Hee told him that all their sea-coasts were in very great daunger by reason of the enemies migh∣tie preparations, the Venetians friends and Confederates delaying their aide,

that the burthen and expence of that warre had for three yeeres space beene very greeuous to them and their subiects, who were able to vndergoe it no longer: That the Venetians so long as hope of happy successe did comfort them in their mise∣ries, had contributed more then they were tied towards the expense of warre, but all faire occasions being omitted, they saw no reason to continue it any longer: And seeing that the Common-wealth perceiued by many experiences, that it could not preserue it selfe by any better meanes then peace, his Holinesse ought not to take it in bad part, if fitting it selfe to time, it sought meanes to temporize with so potent an enemy, thereby to imploy the remainder of her forces in some more prosperous action for the aduancement of Christendome, and seruice of [ 10] the Church, as it had often done in former time. That Pope Paul the third, per∣ceiuing that they had in vaine taken armes against Soliman, did himselfe aduise the Venetians to peace, the league beeing then as now. That the Senate for di∣uers reasons did not impart this their deseigne to any of the confederates, pro∣ceeding therein by the rule of State, and by the same which the Catholike King, a very wise Prince, had vsed: who at that time when he detained his fleet did not ac∣quaint the Venetians with the cause.

These reasons did somewhat satisfie the Pope, who beganne more mildly to treat with the Venetian Ambassadors. The Senate in the meane time had spee∣dily dispatched Francesco Barbaro to Constantinople, to carry newes of their con∣sent [ 20] and confirmation of peace, till that Andrea Badoario, appointed to goe thi∣ther as Ambassador, should be ready to depart to Selim for the sollemn confirma∣tion of the Articles, and with the vsuall presents.

Barbaro made great hast as befitted the importancy of the businesse, and in 14. daies arriued at Constantinople which was at the beginning of May: his ar∣riuall was very gratefull, because that the Turkes hauing daily intelligence of the warlike preparations made at Messina, beganne to suspect that the Venetians had cunningly made this treaty to delay their warlike prouisions, that they might with more ease surprize them vnawares, and that which confirmed them in this opinion was, because they had no notice of the comming of a Venetian Ambassa∣dor. [ 30] This sodainely caused them to prepare the fleet which had beene disarmed, notwithstanding that the time was too farre spent for such actions, Mahomet with sundry difficulties hauing till then deferred it to take away all occasions that might frustrate peace.

At last toward mid Iune, the Bashas Vluzzali and Piali went to sea with an hun∣dred* 3.88 and fifty Gallies, thirty Foists, and ten Mahonnes, and sailed to Negropont, where they made some aboad, expecting the issue of the treaty of peace: and Piali hauing intelligence from the Sanzhac of Chersega that the Ambassador and the new Baily were arriued in Dalmatia and on their way towards Constan∣tinople, did with the whole fleet saile to Modon, and hearing that peace was esta∣blished [ 40] with the Venetians, he turned his forces vpon the Catholike King, scou∣ring the sea coasts of Puglia, where he burnt the city of Castres.

The Venetians being aduertized that the Turkish fleet was abroad, and that they intended not to obserue the peace, and what themselues had done was inter∣preted as a collour to deceiue, were possessed with the same iealozies as the Turks; wherevpon notwithstanding the Ambassador was already in Dalmatia, the euent of his Ambassage was held very doubtfull; and a decree being made that Gene∣rall Foscar•…•…ni leauing sixe Gallies at Corfou should bring the rest of the fleet to Zara, and vnrig it, they neuerthelesse deferred the execution thereof, and sent him word to disarme only tenne of the worst, and to re-enforce the rest, which [ 50] being done there remained with him foure score and twelue seruiceable Gallies: But this did farther encrease the Turkes iealouzies. All these shaddowes of false suspition being vanished, and the Senate supposing that the Common∣wealth was out of danger, being vnwilling any longer to continue so great a

charge, sent word to the Generall, that he should vnrigge his Gallies, and returne home to Venice. By this time the Ambassador Badoario arriued at Constanti∣nople, where in few words he told Selim,,

That by how much the Prince and Ve∣netian* 3.89 Senate had beene greeued with the breach of friendship betwixt the State and the O•…•…toman family; by so much more was their ioy then compleate, be∣cause all controuersies ended, they were now revnited as before, their subiects enioying peace, quiet and free traffick: hoping that peace and friendship now re∣nued, would be of long continuance, which the Venetians for their parts would be very carefull to obserue, intreating Selim to doe the like for his part, as became a vertuous and iust Prince.

[ 10]

Selim made no other answer, but briefly seemed to allow that which the Am∣bassador had spoken, and ratified and confirmed the Articles before concluded with the Baylie. In this sort, after that warre had continued foure yeeres, peace was established with the Turke.

The same yeere 1573. in March, Henry Duke of Aniou, brother to Charles the* 3.90 ninth French King, was elected King of Poland, that Kingdome being voide by the death of Sigismund Augustus the last of the noble family of the Ia•…•…elons, who had worne that crowne for the space of two hundred yeeres; and because succes∣sion* 3.91 hath no place in that Realme, being an electiue Kingdome, after Sigismunds [ 20] death, which happened in Iuly in the yeere 1572. The Lords and Barons of Poland proclaimed a generall assembly at Varsouia in Aprill next ensuing, there to pro∣ceed to election of a new King. After this election posts were dispatched into France to giue Henry notice thereof, whilest Ambassadors were making ready, to receiue and conduct him into Poland.

Italy being now freed from the dreadfull Turkish warre was like to haue ba•…•…ch∣ed* 3.92 an other in her owne bowels, for the Duke of Vrbin going about to lay some new impositions vpon his subiects, they denied to pay any thing but that which they had granted to Duke Francesco Maria when he entred into the State, and therevpon tooke armes, protesting neuerthelesse that they did it not against their Prince, but onely to defend their ancient priuiledges: The Duke on the other [ 30] side raised an army to enforce them, and the matter would haue proceeded to battaile, had not the Pope quenched this flame, making them friends: but the Duke entring afterwards with a power into Vrbin, beheaded some of the chiefe of the sedition, and banished others, consiscating their goods, and then built a Cittadell at the Cities charge, the better afterwards to conteine them in their o∣bedience. Don Iohn of Austria being at the same time in Sicily with a gallant* 3.93 Nauy, and vnderstanding that the Venetians had made peace with the Turkes, did by King Philips permission passe ouer with his forces into Affrick, to •…•…eate the sonne of Muleassem in the Kingdome of Tunis, who for his intelligence with Christians had beene expulsed by the Turkes, and had honorable entertainment [ 40] giuen him by the King of Spaine in Goletta.

Being come into Affrick he landed his souldiers and in order of battaile march∣ed to assault the City of Tunis, where no resistance being made the Christians without any slaughter entred and sacked it: then Don Iohn causing a fort to be built nere to the City, placed Gabriele Serbellone the Milanois in it with three hun∣dred Italians, and himselfe with the fleet returned into Sicily.

About the beginning of the yeere 1574. the Venetians hauing intelligence that Selim armed at Constantinople, fearing that he would not obserue peace, suspected that hee ment to enterprise vpon Candy, wherevpon they leauied 12000. foot-men to guard it, and rigged their fleet, making Iacomo Souranza their [ 50] Generall: but these preparations were needlesse, for Selim turning his deseignes vpon Affrike to bee reuenged on Don Iohn, ratified the peace, and tooke from them all suspition of being inuaded by him, sent Sinan Basha with a mighty ar∣my into Affrike to recouer Tunis and raze Goletta, the which in one month

he did. Selim perceiuing all things to succeed according to his desire, intended to breake his word and oth with the Venetians, and to inuade the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Candy; but whilest he made his preparations, death ouerthrew his vniust and proud de∣seignes, God so prouiding for the quiet and safety of Christendome: Amurath his eldest sonne succeeded him in the Empire.

In the meane time Henry of Aniou entring Poland, did vpon the confines in* 3.94 great power and magnificence meet with the chiefe of the Kingdome, who con∣ducted him to Cracouia, where with royal solemnity he was crowned: and whilest he busied himselfe with enquiring of their manner of gouernment, beginning by [ 10] little and little to order the affaires of State, the Queene his mother sent a speedy messenger to him from France to aduertize him of the death of his brother King Charles, and to aduise him to returne into France with all possible speed, to re∣ceiue the crowne, and to remoue those troubles wherewith by his brothers death she was entangled.

The King accquainted the Polanders with these newes, telling them that hee was of necessity to returne into France to order the affaires of that Kingdome which were much embroiled. But the Lords which were then with him at Cra∣couia, answered that his departure could not be treated of but in the Generall Councell of the whole Realme, who would send him so well accompanied, as he [ 20] should terrifie those that durst make any resistance. The Generall Estates of the Kingdome were to the same end summoned to Cracouia: but the King againe solicited by his mother to make hast, and on the other side perceiuing that the* 3.95 Polanders did not proceed with such celerity as his affaires required, and that they were vnwilling to let him goe, resolued in secret manner to depart, and in disguise by night leaping on horse-back, him-selfe, with three more, went from Cracouia, and with great speed hasted towards the confines of the Empire.

His departure was not long concealed, for the Earle of Tericenia the Kings Chamberlaine, with other Lords, comming to his chamber and finding him not there, did presently take horse, pursuing the same way that hee had taken, meaning to stay him and bring him backe, but the King made such speed as they [ 30] could not ouer-take him till he arriued in the Empires territories, where they ear∣nestly entreated him to returne with them, which he not granting, they went back againe to Cracouia.

The King in the meane time pursuing his iourney came to Vienna where the* 3.96 Emperors sonnes met him, and within a while after, the Emperor himselfe, who very magnificently entertained him.

From thence he sent word to the Venetians that he determined to come and see their Citty. Archduke Charles accompanied him through his Cuntrey; vpon the Venetians confines, he met with a gallant troope of Noblemen who came to waite vpon him with eight hundred souldiers; the next day foure of the chie∣fest [ 40] Senators of Venice came to him as Ambassadors, and intreated him to come and view their city, where all men with great desire expected him; which he pro mising to doe, the Duke of Neuers who was then in Italy came likewise to him, and so altogether arriued at Maguera, the farthest place of the firme land on the lakes, where hee met with threescore Venetian gentlemen which came to waite* 3.97 vpon him, and entring into a Gondola, prepared for him, together with the Dukes of Ferrara and Neuers, attended by infinite numbers of Gondolas, hee came to Murana, where the next day hee was visited by the Prince and Senate with foureteene Gallies, then beeing conducted to Lia, hee went into the Bucen∣tauro, and with him the Prince and Senate, from thence with great magnificence [ 50] he was brought to Venice, all that Channell betwixt Lia and the city beeing full of boates made in fashion of sea monsters, wherein were all the youth of Ve∣nice,* 3.98 ritchly attired, with infinite numbers of Gondolas who rowed before and on euery side of the Bucentaure, which was gently towed to Venice, where the

King remayning certaine daies the Signory shewed him all pleasures and delights that could be imagined: and at his departure, the Prince and Senate accompanied him three miles from the city, where taking leaue of each other, the King embra∣ced the Prince, giuing him great thankes for his royall entertainment, which hee promised neuer to forget, and in so saying gaue him a diamond of great valew entreating him to weare it for his sake.

After his departure, whilest with his friends the Prince celebrated the day of his election, •…•…ire by negligence had like to haue consumed the dukes pallace, who was enforced to with-draw himselfe to the house of Giouan de Leggè, knight, and Pro∣curator of Saint Marke: this fire besides the present great hurt it did was by some [ 10] interpreted as a bad presage.

The same yeere died Cosmo de Medicis the first great Duke of Tuscany, a Prince* 3.99 of rare and excellent iudgment: Francesco his eldest sonne succeeded him. There arose likewise great troubles in Genoa, betwixt the antient and moderne nobillity, which continued the remainder of that yeere, and most part of next 1575. till that the Pope, Emperor, and King of Spaine, whom they had made vmpiers of their* 3.100 controuersies, made them friends.

So soone as Amurath had possest himselfe of his fathers Empire, following the president of his Ancestors, hee murthered all his brethren: and to let the [ 20] * 3.101 world see that he was a souldier, commanded Vluzzali to prepare a mighty fleet: This did greatly trouble all Christian Princes, especially the Venetians, who forti∣fied all their sea-coasts against the fury of this barbarous enemy: but they were soone freed from this feare, by a great plague and dearth at that time in Con∣stantinople,* 3.102 which enforced the new Emperor to abandon his warlike deseignes, and to seeke meanes to redresse the miserie and calamity of the chiefe citie of his Empire yet, to confirme mens opinions, conceiued of his new enterprises, he commanded (truce beeing not yet ratified with the Emperor) that his Garri∣sons neere to Hungary, should enter into the Empires territories to waste and burne the country, where the Turkes did not only execute many hostile and blou∣dy actions, but tooke diuers castles of the Empire, carrying away with them many [ 30] Christian prisoners: whereof the Emperors Ambassador complayning to A∣murath,* 3.103 he willed him to write to his Master, that if he ment to haue truce with him, he should resolue to pay him tribute for all his dominions, otherwise, hee would in person come into his country to ruine him.

Amurath was incensed against Maximillian, because that the Polanders, de∣termyning to elect a new King by reason of King, Henries departure, he was one that laied claime to that crowne: and because the house of Austria and the Otto∣man* 3.104 family had of a long time hated each other, Amurath would by no meanes haue him for his neigbour, and therefore inuaded him, to diuert him from those thoughts, sending word likewise at the same time to the Polanders, that if they [ 40] could not agree about the election of their King, they should choose Stefano Battori Prince of Transiluania, threatning if they did not so, to waste and spoile their country.

Whilest the Turke stood on these termes with the Emperor and Polanders,* 3.105 he sent one of his Chiaus to Venice to promise and ratifie both by word and wri∣ting perpetual peace with them: This Ambassage was entertained with wonder∣ful ioy, they being thereby freed from great care and expense. At the same time an exchange of prisoners, taken at the battaile of Lepanto (which were now at Rome) was granted, for Christian prisoners held by the Turke, among whom was Serbolone, and many others of note. [ 50]

Toward the latter end of this yeere, the pestilence which had much afflicted the city of Trent, bewraied it selfe in Venice, where by reason of cold weather, it brake not forth much that winter: but the spring following the yeere 1576. it beganne to rage, and with the heate so encreased, as there died that yeere

aboue three score and ten thousand persons: and no humaine remedy appearing, the Prince and Senate had recourse to God, and meeting altogether in Saint Markes Church, the Prince in all their names made a sollemne vow to God to build a Church and dedicate it to the worlds Redeemer, beseeching him with* 3.106 heart and mouth, that it might please him of his infinite mercy to heare them, and to appease his wrath, by restoring them to their former health. This graci∣ous God heard their humble and deuout praiers, and from that time the sicknesse beganne to decrease, so that the City in March following was wholly freed from that scourge: wherevpon, a goodly Church was builded at La Zuecca, and dedi∣cated to the Redeemer, where now the Capuchins abide: whither the Signory [ 10] and Clergy doe yeerely goe in precession euery third sunday in Iuly to giue thankes vnto God, for his mercy and fauor shewed vnto them.

The city of Venice was not alone infected, but diuers other townes of the Mar∣ches of Treuiso and Lumbardy, but especially the city of Milan, where Cardinall* 3.107 Borromeo, Archbishop of the place, a Prelate of holy life, spared neither his means nor life for the releefe of his flock, exposing himselfe without feare to all dangers that were offered.

Things thus variably changing, Lodonico Mocenigo Duke of Venice deceassed, in Iune, the yeere 1577. hauing gouerned eight yeeres, hee was honorably buried in the Church of Saint Iohn and Paul, vnder the great Gate, neere to Loredana [ 20] Marcello his wife.

His funeralls ended, all men were desirous to acknowledge the vertue and de∣serts of Sebastiano Venieri, who when he was Generall had renouned the Christi∣an Commonwealth by so notable a victory; and though hee had competitors, did neuerthelesse merit to be preferred before them all: wherevpon the forty one being assembled (of which number himselfe was one) they without any contra∣diction chose him Prince.

[illustration]

SEBASTIANO VENIERI [ 30] the 86. Duke.

[ 40]

THIS election published, the people were very ioyfull of it. But that which seemed most strange, and therewithall plea∣sing, was, that amongst such multitude of all sorts of people as went to congratulate his new dignity, ten Turkes who were then in Venice, came and kissed his feet, saying aloude, This is that inuincible Generall, who by defeating our fleet and vs, hath iustly purchased to himselfe this deserued crowne, vnto whom we wish a long and hap∣py life. The Prince thanked them and with a liberall hand rewarded them.

Not long after, fiue correctors of the lawes were created, who had authority [ 10] to order the affaires of iustice. For sundry corruptions by long continuance crept into pleas, did much confound mens sutes, to the preiudices of iustice: These fiue were Giouan Donato, Iacomo Gussone, Francesco Venieri, Iustinian Iusti∣nians, and Lodouico Micaele, all Senators of great reputation. Then vpon intel∣ligence that the Turke rigged certaine Gallies at Narento to send into the Ha∣driattick Gulph (contrary to the treaty of peace made with the Venetians) to de∣fend his owne subiects trafficking on those seas, whom the Vscoques of Segna robbed, the Venetians sent foure well armed Gallies thither, who cleered and defended those seas from their thefts and robberies, whereof the Turke hauing [ 20] notice called home his owne Gallies forth of the Gulph and freed the Venetians from all feare and suspition.

The Senate perceiuing that the prices of all things were excessiue in Venice, either by reason of the late sicknesse, or vpon some other occasion; a decree was* 3.108 made to reduce all wares to the old price appointed by the lawes; and to see it effected, fiue Senators were appointed, namely Marco Iustiniano, Lorenzo Bernar∣do, Sebastiano Barbarico, Nicolo Quirini, and Lodouico Contareni.

Three Senators were afterwards deputed to take order for the discharge and payment of the States debts, occasioned by the last warres: the Senat was desi∣rous (it hauing beene propounded by Giouan Francesco Priuli, a wise and ver∣tuous Senator) to pay euery man his due, and to that end, they appointed the said [ 30] Francesco Priuli, Antonio Bragadini, and Iacomo Gussone.

At the same time, Haniball of Capua elected Archbishop of Ottranto came to Venice as the Popes Nuncio, whose arriuall was pleasing to the Senate, for the memory of his dead vncle, who in former time had beene Legat there, as also because that by his comming the passage towards Romagnia was opened, which till then had beene shut vp by reason of the late sicknesse, his presence likewise brought content with it; for hee presented the Prince with a rose of gold from his Holinesse, which is a guift which Popes are wont to bestow vpon Princes which are their greatest friends and fauorites: Pope Alexander the third in the yeere 1177. honoured Prince Sebastian Ciani with the like guift, and the ceremo∣ny [ 40] * 3.109 of presenting it was magnificently performed in Saint Markes Church, fif∣teene daies after, vpon the one and twentith day of Iuly, a publike proclamation was made, wherein the City was declared to bee cleere and sound from all infecti∣on: At which publication the Prince and Senate went to visit the new Church built in honor of our Sauiour at La Zuecca.

Not long after, Ormanetta Bishop of Padua beeing dead, the Pope bestowed that ritch Bishoprick on Frederico Cornare the Bishop of Bergamo, and that of Bergamo vpon Ieronimo Ragazzone Bishop of Nouara: it did highly content the Senate to see one of those Churches restored to the family of Cornares, who for a long time had gouerned it, and the other to a house so well deseruing of the Com∣mon-wealth, [ 50] for Ragazzone was brother to Iacomo and Placido Ragazzoni, be∣loued of the Signory for their good seruice done to the State.

This ioy, the fate of Brescia did greatly lessen, where the plague dayly con∣sumed

multitudes: wherevpon in Iuly the Prince and Senate for three daies made sollemne precessions, praying vnto God for their health.* 3.110

The same yeere sundry prodigies were seene, a great Comet ouer all Europe, and at Rome a globe of fire in the ayre like to a great tunne which, arising ouer* 3.111 the gate del populo, vanished ouer Castle Angelo: besides a cleere light was seene in Romagnia at midnight, which notwithstanding the darkenesse shined so bright as that men did as easily see to read as at noone day, these were interpreted signes of future misery.

Not long after, newes was brought to Venice of the death of D. Iohn of Au∣stria [ 10] who deceassed at Namur in the beginning of the yeere 1578. at which time likewise Prince Venieri opprest with old age, and surprised with sicknesse (then when he thought to celebrate the birth day of Princesse Cecilia Contareni his wife, for which Francesco Morosini his sonne in law a noble Gentleman prepared great triumphs) departed this mortall life on the third of March, being generally bewai∣led of the whole City hauing gouerned the Commonwealth eight months and twenty daies. The ceremonies which were wont to bee made in the Church of Saint Iohn and Paul, were by reason of the great raine performed in Saint Markes, his body was afterwards buried in the Church of Maran. The Archduke of Au∣stria craued his picture of the Senate, together with his coate armour which hee wore vpon the day of the battaile of Lepanto, which the Senate willingly [ 20] granted.

The funerall ceremonies ended, and the Senators after the vsuall manner proceeding to a new election, Nicolo de Ponte a very graue and noble Senator, foure score and eight yeeres old, and Procurator of Saint Marke, being a learned man which in his youth had read publikely at Venice, was chosen. In his time the Commonwealth was peaceable, the Turke turning his force vpon the Persian.

[illustration]

NICOLO DE PONTE [ 30] the 87. Duke.

[ 40]

[ 50]

THE same yeere the great Duke of Tuscany discouered a conspiracy against himselfe and his brethren made by certaine Florentine Gentlemen, who were apprehended and publikely executed, and not long after I•…•…ne of Au∣stria his wife died in child-bed, a very vertuous Princesse. The yeere following 1580. though there were fierce wars both in the East, and Netherlands, men fearing that it would likewise renue in France, the Venetians were quiet ouer their whole dominions. [ 10]

The second yeere of Prince Ponte his soueraignty, an accident happened at Ve∣nice very pleasing to the Senate. Francesco de Medicis great Duke of Tuscany a very potent Prince was desirous to marry for his second wife Bianca daughter to Bartilmeo Capello a Venetian Gentleman, and to that end sent Mario Sforza to Venice to acquaint the Senate and her father therewith. The Senate sent for Barthelmeo and his sonne Vittorio whom they knighted, then adopted the great Dutchesse Bianca daughter to the Venetian Signory, in the same manner as in former time they had done Catherina Cornare Queene of Cyprus: the State then and afterwards shewing great signes of ioy, but chiefly vpon the arriuall of Don Iohn de Medicis the great Dukes brother, sent to Venice to conduct her to [ 20] Florence, and Giouan Micaele and Antonio Tepulo were sent Ambassadors to the great Duke in the Senates name to congratulate his marriage, and to be present at Florence at the great Dutchesse coronation.

They likewise sent Marco Iustiniano Ambassador to Charles Philibert the new Duke of Sauoy, to bewaile with him the death of Emanuell his father, a great friend to the Venetian State. And because Philip had obteined the crowne of Portugall by the death of the Cardinall King, the Senate appointed Vincento Troni, and Ieronimo Lippomano both Knights and noble Senators, Ambassa∣dours* 3.112 to his Maiesty, to reioyce with him in the Senates name for his happy fortune. [ 30]

Now because peace had in Venice begotten excesse in the expense of priuate Cittizens which commonly carrieth sundry mischiefes along with it (for there where frugality and parcimony hath place, religion, vertue, and modesty doe flourish) a decree was made, that superfluous expence in garments, feasts and wo∣mens lying in, should be moderated.

They abolished the vse of all sorts of pearle, true or counterfeit, onely wo∣men* 3.113 were permitted to weare a small carkanet of them about their neckes: cost∣ly skinnes, and furres were wholly forbidden to bee worne, together with the vse of any gold or siluer lace vpon garments: Moreouer, it was not lawfull for any Curtezan to weare any precious iem, iewels of gold or siluer, or to vse any tapi∣stry: [ 40] Great penalties were imposed not onely vpon the transgressors of this de∣cree, but on workmen which should make or sell any of these prohibited things: and excessiue expense was not onely forbidden in womens lying in, but likewise the vsuall visitation of friends, vnlesse they were neere kinsfolke, and to preuent all deceit herein, the mid wiues were enioyned within three daies after any wo∣man was deliuered of child to aduertize the Magistrate thereof. An other de∣cree* 3.114 was made against superfluous diet, restrayning it within the bounds of modesty: peacocks, partridge, feasant, and all dainty fish were bannished from the tables of delicious Epicures, Iesters and Buffons from their houses. It was likewise forbidden not to serue double messe of fish or flesh into any banquet, and [ 50] a commandement to all Cookes to giue in the names of such to the Magistrate as had hired them to dresse any, together with the order therein obserued.

All Gouernors of townes, and Iudges of Prouinces were likewise enioyned,

not to bestow any excessiue cost in garments, houshold-stuffe or seruants, because that modesty and proportion in gouernors, is an assured bridle to hold back sub∣iects from doing euill. For, where euery man is suffered to liue after his owne pleasure without order of law, there of necessity must all mischiefe and riot a∣bound: for this cause the State enacted great and greeuous penalties vpon the transgressors of these so holy and wholesome decrees: For it auailes not a Com∣monwealth to haue good lawes, vnlesse subiects doe obey them, and Magistrates see them seuerely executed.

Whilest the Senate were making these wholesome lawes, the Persian percei∣uing that he had to doe with so potent an enemy as the Turke sought to weaken [ 10] * 3.115 him by busying him in more places then one, and to that end did the same win∣ter send an Ambassador to the Venetians, requiring that of them which they had propounded vnto him, for during the warre against Ottoman, hee intreated them to enuade the Turke now that hee was busied in Persia, promising so streightly to enclose them as they should neuer escape from thence, thereby hoping wholly to roote out the tyrannous memory of the Ottomans who went about to make themselues absolute monarkes of the whole world.

The Venetians dismissed this Ambassador with an ambiguous answere, as men that had no intent to entangle themselues in a new warre, without likelihood of great aduantage, and assured hope of victory. In this manner ended the [ 20] yeere 1580.

The yeere following 1581. Pope Gregory the thirteenth perceiuing that be∣cause* 3.116 the course of the sunne had not beene rightly obserued, the Equinoctiall of the spring had gotten tenne daies before the course of the sunne, whereby the feast of Easter (on which all other mouable feasts depend) was not celebrated at the iust time appointed in the primitiue Church by the councell of Nice, which in congruity if it were not reformed, the holy daies of winter would bee kept in summer, and those of summer in winter, he sent for the skilfullest Astrologians of Europe to come to Rome, and commanded them after exact calculating the course of the planets, to referre the Equinoctiall of the spring to the 21. [ 30] day of March, as it had beene in old time decreed by the fathers of the said coun∣cell of Nice, and to finde out some meanes and rule, that the same inconuenient might for euer be remooued: These learned men did what the Pope commanded, by referring the Equinoctiall to it true place, and by taking away for once, tenne daies from October: His Holinesse assured that this was the onely true remedy, approued it, and by his iniunction commanded it to be obserued ouer all Chri∣stendome: only the Greekes and some other nations would not entertaine this reformation, which was diuised by Lodouicus Lilius a very famous Mathematician, and divulged ouer all Christendome by his Holinesse command.

The same yeere there arose some contention betwixt the Venetians and [ 40] * 3.117 knights of Malta, because that those knights scoured the seas to surprise the Turkes, whom sometimes they tooke in the Venetians seas, whereat Amurath be∣ing incensed, sent them word that if they would not take order that his subiects might safely passe through their seas, himselfe would send a mighty fleet to se∣cure them. The Venetians complained to the great Master of Malta, intreating him not to permit his vessels any more to trouble the Turkes on their seas: but the Malteses making no account hereof, the Venetians tooke from them a ship of warre which they sent into Candy, and not long after tooke two Gallies from them, which being brought to Corfoù, all the Turkish slaues in them were set at liberty, and the empty Gallies restored to the knights. The Venetians the [ 50] same yeere to satisfie the Turke did publikely behead Gabriele Heme a Venetian Gentleman.* 3.118

This Heme in a Galley of his owne had in the Archipelago fought with a Turkish Galeot which was going from Argier to Constantinople with the

vice-queene of the same Kingdome, and a sonne and daughter of hers, which carri∣ed rit•…•…h presents to Amurath, all the Turkes both men and women in it he put to the sword setting all the Christian slaues at liberty.

Beside the execution of this gentleman, the Venetians, to appease the Turke, were enforced to send home foure hundred Turkish slaues in stead of so many Christians which the said Heme had set at liberty, and to pay him in ready money the sum of 800000. Ducats.

But to giue this yeere a more pleasing farewell, the Prince of Mantua did with great solemnity and magnificence marry one of the daughters of Francesco great Duke of Tuscany: and Catherina Infanta of Spaine was by King Philip her father [ 10] promised in marriage to the Duke of Sauoy.

Not long after, Pope Gregory the thirteenth died in the foure score and third yeere of his age: his funeralls ended in Saint Peters Church, where he was buri∣ed in a chappel which himselfe had built, the Cardinals entred into the Conclaue, where after twelue daies, they elected Cardinall Falix Perreti of Montalto a Ca∣stle* 3.119 in the marches of Ancona, a Monke of Saint Francis order who tooke vpon him the name of Sixtus the fifth.

The same yeere on the fourth of Iune, Nicolo de Ponte the Venetian Prince, died, beeing ninty foure yeeres of age, hauing gouerned seuen yeeres and odde [ 20] months, he lies buried in Saint Maries Church; his funeralls ended, and the forty one proceeding to a new election, Pascale Cigogna, Procurator of Saint Marke, was chosen Duke on the eighteenth of August of the same yeere.

[illustration]

PASCALE CICOGNA [ 30] the 88. Duke.

[ 40]

IN his time there happened a tragicall act in Padua a towne vn∣der the Venetian Signory, into whose territories presently vpon [ 50] * 3.120 the election of Pope Sixtus the fifth, Paulo Iordano Vrsino Duke of Brasciano retired himself (iealous of the Pope who suspected that the Duke had put a kinsman of his to death before his Papacy, hauing married his widdow Victoria Corembona a beautifull

Lady) and there dyed, not without suspition of beeing poysoned, for which losse the Dutchesse beeing extreamly greeued, retired with two of her bretheren to Padua, vnder the protection of the State of Venice, till such time as shee pleased to returne home to her father at Eugubia. Lodouico Vrsino kinsman to the decea∣sed Duke, lay at that time in Padua, for whose sake the Senate gaue him imploy∣ment in a iourney into the Leuant: this man, either of himselfe, or prouoked by others, did on a night with diuerse armed men, go to the Dutchesse house, whom hee cruelly murthered, together with one of her bretheren.

The report of this murther beeing carried to Venice, the Senate sent Com∣missioners to punish the Author and complices of this homicide. Vrsino hauing [ 10] notice heereof, and certaine of his letters intercepted, which discouered the fact, so as hee could not deny it, resolued to defend himselfe in his house with fifty of his owne followers, determining to hold out till the last man: but the Magi∣strates enuironing the house with their gardes, and perceiuing that hee would not yeeld, caused a Cannon to bee brought, wherewith they battered and beat downe part of the house, killing some of the defendants. Lodouico at last perceiuing* 3.121 longer resistance to be vaine, yeelded himselfe, who beeing imprisoned, together with some of his complices, and found guilty of the Dutchesse murther, himselfe was strangled in prison, and his adherents publickly executed. [ 20]

The end of the third Booke of the seuenth Decade.

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

HEnry the third, French King, is slaine by a Monke. Henry of Bourbon King of Nauar is proclaimed King of France, [ 20] Foure Popes dye in lesse then a yeare. The Venetians are iealous of the Turkes and Milaneses. The building of the Bridge of Rialto. The conuersion of Henry of Bourbon French King, hee sends a sollemne Ambassage to Rome, where Pope Clement the eight refuseth to giue him his blessing. All the Citties of France yeeld to Henry the fourth. The Venetians send Ambassadors to him. Pope Cle∣ment blesseth the French King. Peace betwixt the French and Catholick Kings. The French King marrieth the Lady Mary of Medicis Princesse of [ 30] Florence. Peace betwixt the French King and Duke of Sauoy. The Vene∣tians cleere the Adriattick Seas from Pirates. A decree of the Venetian Se∣nate against the Clergies purchasing of lands. An other Decree concerning building of Churches. The creation of Pope Paul the fifth Hee complaines to the Venetian Ambassador against the Senates law, forbidding the Clergie to purchace lands, or to build Churches without licence. The Popes resolution vpon the Venetians refusall. Hee sends two Iniunctions to them concerning that businesse, with the Senates answer. Excommunication against the Vene∣tians [ 40] is published at Rome. They make two Declarations vpon the Popes excommunication. The Pope and Venetians warlike preparations against each other. The French King is a Mediator for Peace betwixt the Pope and Ve∣netians, and to that end sends the Cardinall Ioyeuse to Rome. The Pope after sundry difficulties condiscends to reuoke his censures, and to giue the Cardinall Ioyeuse ample Commission to doe it. The substance of the Articles whereby the Censures were reuoked. And lastly the reuocation of them by the said Car∣dinall in Venice. [ 50]

The fourth Booke of the seuenth Decad of the Historie of Uenice. [ 10]

WHILEST the Venetians, and generally all Italy enioyed peace, France and the Netherlands were afflicted with warre: And Henry the third French King beeing treacherously slain•…•… by a Monke, the cheefe of the Army as well Catholicks as Pro∣testants, proclaimed Henry of Bourbon, King of France and Nauarre, as first Prince of the bloud, and next heire to the Crowne.

But to returne to the Venetians vnto whom our History doth cheefly belong. The yeare following 1590. there was a great dearth of Corne ouer all Italy, but [ 20] the Venetian Senate made such speedy prouision of graine from England and Poland, as during that time of scarcity, Bakers stalls and markets were better stored with bread, and the price thereof cheaper then in any other Citty of Italy, where men could not buy as much as they pleased, though in Venice no man was li∣mited. The same yeare on the 27. of August, Pope Sixtus the fifth dyed, hauing* 3.122 held the Papacie fiue yeares, foure moneths, and three dayes: Twenty dayes after, Cardinall Giouan Baptista Castagna a Romaine, was created Pope, intitling him∣selfe Vrban the seuenth, putting all men in hope of an happy gouernment: but he enioyed the Papacie onely twelue dayes. After his death the Sea was vacant aboue two moneths; in which interim, more then seuen hundred Bandetti spoiled [ 30] the countrey round about Rome: against them the colledge of Cardinals, and great Duke of Tuscany sent forces. At last the Conclaue chose Cardinall Nicolo* 3.123 Sfondrato of Milan Pope, intitling himselfe Gregory the foureteenth.

Toward the latter end of this yeare, there was in Venice a Greeke called Marto Bragadino Mamagna, one that had beene a Monke famous for opinion men had of him, that he could transmute quick-siluer into gold, the people were not alone bewitched with this golden dreame, but the Nobility, and some Princes of Italy,* 3.124 sought his friendship, hoping by his meanes to turne mountaines into gold: but this Impostor beeing no longer able to conceale his deceit, fled from Venice into Bauaria, where the Duke discouering his cousenage, imprisoned and condemned [ 40] him to be hanged, but the prisoner making sute to bee beheaded, the Duke gran∣ted* 3.125 his request. The Venetians hauing carefully prouided for the famine (as hath beene said) were the yeare following 1591▪ much perplexed, hauing intelligence that the Turke made great preparation for warre. They sent forces into Candy and to other places, confronting the enemie: but they were soone freed from* 3.126 that feare, being aduertised that the Turke did it at the request of the French King, to infest the Spaniard, they did afterwards fortifie Bressia and Bergamo, suspecting the great forces which were in the state of Milan: they did likewise build that goodly bridge ouer the great Canall of the Citty, called the bridge of Rialto.

In the meane time Pope Gregory the fourteenth dyed, the tenth moneth and [ 50] * 3.127 tenth day of his Papacie, hee was a great fauourer of the French league, to whose ayde he sent forces vnder the command of his Nephew Hercole Sfondrato Duke of Mont marcian at the charge of the Sea Apostolick; but after the Popes death their pay beeing no more currant, those troopes by little and little disbanded.

The Sea was vacant thirteen dayes, at the end of which Cardinall Giouan Anto∣nio* 3.128 Faschinetta the Bolognesse was created Pope, assuming the name of Innocent the 9. at first he seemed to fauour the league of France, but his deseigns were vain for he liued but two monethes and one day after he was made Pope.

The Cardinalls went into the Conclaue at the beginning of the yeare 1592. and elected Hipolito Cardinall Aldobrandino nominated Clement the 7. who seemed willing to aid the French league with men and money.* 3.129

At the same time Candy was miserably aflicted with the Pestilence, where in a short space dyed twenty thousand persons: one thing is worthy to be noted, that toward the latter end of August, when the sicknesse beganne to decrease, there [ 10] was seene in a night on the easi side of the Island a great cloude of fire which gi∣uing light for an houres space as if it had beene noone dayes, did to the great* 3.130 terror of the beholders runne through the ayre as farre as Spina longa, and there fell into the Sea, where for a long time it burnt in the water, and at last it vanished.

Now the Citty of Venice hauing beene (as all men know and as wee haue de∣clared in the first booke of this History) builded by those, who flying from the fu∣ry and incursions of barbarous nations, retired into those lakes where it now standeth; and in the same manner as it beganne, hath still daily augmented and en∣creased, so as till this day many famous men, learned in all arts haue come thither [ 20] from all parts of Christendome as to the Sanctuary of the Muses, where those which are excellent in any art whatsoeuer are so honored and cherished by the nobility, as they presently forget their natiue Contrey, making their perpetuall abode there: where vppon it came to passe the same yeare that certaine fauorers of learning hauing honorable command in the Citty propounded the building of an Academy there, where by turnes they would meeet, and read publicke lec∣tures* 3.131 in that art which euery man profest, and to this end nine gallant spirrits ioy∣ned together (Pompeo Limpia de Bari, Lucius Scarannus de Brindiz, Fabio Paulino de Vdina, Giouan Baptista Leone, Georgio Contaren of Venice, Guido Cassono de Se∣rauall, Theodore Angelucio de Bella forte in la Marca, Vnicentio Galieno the Roman, [ 30] and Giouan Paulo Gallucio de Salles) and laid the foundation of this vertuous work, choosing a fit place for the purpose, where continuing their ordinary lectures the glory and reputation of this Venetian Academy extended so farre, as diuers no∣table men haue since then come thither, whereby it is daily much beautified and augmented.

Thus ended this yeare. At the beginning of the next which was 1593. though the Venetians sought to satisfie the Turke, by keeping the Vscoques of Segna from scouring the Adriattick Seas, yet, not relying on their perfidious promises, beeing aduertised that they made great preparations by land and Sea, they re-en∣forced the Garrisons of Candy, which were much weakened by the late pesti∣lence: [ 40] then perceiuing that the Turkish Army, which came from Constantinople, made incursions through Croatia and approached the Contry of Frioul, belon∣ging to their state, resolued to build a fort vpon the Confines thereof, at al times to defend the Contry from the Turkes incursions, they committed the building thereof to skilfull Ingeniers, and to some of the cheefest Senators which for that it is seated in a goodly soyle tenne miles from Vdina, and within halfe a mile of the Emperors territories, was called Noua Palma.

The same yeare, Henry King of France and Nauarre, after sondry bat∣tailes and ouerthrowes of his enemies did through the instruction▪ of the Arch-bishop of Bourges and sundry Doctos of Paris require to bee reconci∣led [ 50] vnto the Roman Church, and on the fiue and twentith day of Iuly made publick profession thereof, in Saint Denis Abbey, before the said Archbishop, accompanied by the Cardinall Bourbon Archbishop of Rouen, nine Bishops, and

diuerse other Prelates and Religious men, protesting to liue and dye in the sayd Catholick religion, and to maintaine it with, and against all men: hee made pro∣fession of his faith, accomplished all ceremonies requisite in so solemne an acte, and then receiued absolution, to the wonderfull ioy and applause of the people.

Not long after this publick conuersion, the King sent the Duke of Neuers and* 3.132 other Prelates to Rome, by them to present his obedience to the Pope, and to witnesse his desire to imitate the example of the Kings his Predecessors, and by his actions, like them, to merit the title and grade of the Churches eldest sonne, and to intreate his Holynesse to approoue his conuersion, and to honor him with his blessing. [ 10]

The Pope after sundry honors done to the Duke of Neuers, would not at first endure to heare tell of the King, notwithstanding that the Duke and Prelates, which accompanied him, assured him that his conuersion was true and vnfeig∣ned, and therefore humbly besought his Holynesse to beleeue it, which hee refu∣sing to doe, would neither absolue the King, nor ratifie that which had beene done at Saint Denis. The French in the meane time perceiuing that the King had abiured his former errors, and was become a Catholick, and afterwards crowned and annoynted at Chartres with the holy oyle, according to the anci∣ent custome of the French Kings: all rebellious citties, one after another, retur∣ned vnder his obedience. The Venetians sent Ambassadors to the French King, [ 20] * 3.133 to congratulate his conuersion, and to reioyce with his Maiesty for his happy successe, in recouering the greatest part of his kingdome.

At the beginning of the yeare following 1595. Amurath the Turkish Empe∣ror dyed, Mahomet his eldest sonne succeeded him, who calling all his brethren into his chamber, caused them to bee strangled in his presence.

The Pope beeing aduertised of the French Kings good successe, who still hum∣bled himselfe to the Sea Apostolick, and had againe sent Dauid du Perron Bishop of Eureux to Rome, to procure his absolution, was willing to grant his request, notwithstanding many were of contrary opinions: Wherevpon, comming one* 3.134 Sunday morning beeing the eighteene of September, in his Pontificalibus in∣to [ 30] Saint Peters Hall, hee approoued King Henries abiuration, with all ceremo∣nies therein requisite, receiuing him to fauour, and into the bosome of the Church, with his blessing Apostolicall, inioyning him due penance: which done, Drums and Trumpets sounded in signe of ioy, and Cannons thundred from Ca∣stle Angelo, all men reioycing at his good fortune, (the Spanish Ambassador ex∣cepted) who in his Maisters behalfe protested, that the same act could not preiu∣dice his Kings titles.

During these solemnities at Rome, Pascale Cicogna Duke of Venice dyed, bee∣ing foure score and fiue yeares old, hauing gouerned the Common-wealth nine yeares, one moneth, and fifteene dayes, hee lyes buryed in the Church of Santa [ 40] Maria de Cruciferi.

[illustration]

MARIN GRIMANI the 89. Duke.

[ 10]

[ 20]

MARIN GRIMANI Knight and Procurator of Saint Marke, succeeded him, beeing beloued of all men for his rare vertue* 3.135 and charitie to the poore. The Pope in the meane time to confirme what hee had done to the most Christian King, sent the Cardinall of Florence his Legate into France, who was honorably entertained at Paris, where hee made some aboade; [ 30] for open warre beeing denounced betwixt France and Spaine, the Pope became a Mediator of peace▪ and to that end sent the Generall of the Fryers, a Sicillian, with ample Commission, together with the Legat, to treate of peace betwixt those two great Kings; hee had receiued the like authority from the King of Spaine; and in the end, after sundry goings too and fro, peace (which all men desired) ensued, the yeare 1598.

The Venetians perceiuing that the Vsicoques did not giue ouer their robbing the Dalmatian and Histrian seas, sent certaine Galleys thither, vnder the com∣mand of Giouan Bembo their Generall, assisted by Colonell Piercente Gabutio & his troopes, who defeated these theeues, and cleered the seas. Heerein, during peace [ 40] did the Venetians busie themselues, whilest the Turke enuaded Hungary and Transiluania. But the Vsicoques in the yeare 1599. continuing their incursions,* 3.136 the Venetians sent Nicolo Donato, who succeded Bembo, against them, together with the same Colonell Pierconte Gibutio and his Regiment, who entred and wa∣sted their countrey, tooke diuerse of theirs Castles, and slew many of them.

Henry the fourth French King, vpon diuerse iust and reasonable causes, hauing* 3.137 obtained the Popes dispensation, to repudiate his wife the Lady Marguerite of France, sister to the late King, and to marry an other by whom hee might haue issue, craued the Lady Ma•…•…y of Medicis, Princesse of Florence, daughter to the late Francisco great Duke of Tuscany, and Neece to Ferdinand de Medicis, now great Duke, a Princesse beside her youth, endowed with rare beauty, wisdome, and ma∣ny [ 50] excellent parts. The great Duke perceiuing how honorable this match would bee to himselfe and the whole family of Medicis, did willingly consent therevnto,* 3.138 wherevpon so soone as it was determined and concluded, a great Lord of France was sent thither, who in the Kings name married her at Florence, honoring her

as his maisters wife: Then all things prepared for the iourney of so great a Prin∣cesse towards the latter end of the yeare she embarked hir selfe and traine in the great Dukes Gallies, sailing to Marseilles, where arriuing, she remained for cer∣taine daies, receauing magnificent entertainment, till she might fa•…•…ther know the pleasure of the King her husband, who at that time made warre vpon the Duke of Sauoy, for recouery of the Marquisat of Salusses, which that Duke had seazed on during the ciuill warres of France: His Maiestie hauing intelligence that the Queene his wife was arriued at Marseilles, sent word that shee should come to Lyons, whither himselfe came in post, and consummated the marriage begun at Florence. [ 10]

Italy in the meane time was in all arme, because the Count Fuentes being by King Philip sent Lieutenant Generall to Milan, made great leuies of soldiers both* 3.139 Spaniards, Italians, Swisses and Almaines, vnder collour of aiding the Duke of Sauoy against the French King, if peace betwixt those Prines, t•…•…eated of at the Popes command by his Nephew the Cardinall Aldobrandini, tooke not effect.

This troubled all Italy, and especially the Venetians in regard of their townes in Lombardy. The great Duke likwise grew iealous: whervpon, each of them armd,* 3.140 and gaue order to fortifie their frontiers: the l•…•…ke did Francisco Maria Duke of Vrbin Peace in the meane time being proclaimed at Lyons betwixt the Chris∣tian [ 20] King and duke of Sauoy at the beginning of the yeare 1601. and Count Fuentes for all that not disarming, but on the contrary encreasing his forces, made the French King to renew his league with the Swisses, and to leuy new troupes, that if the Spaniard should enuade any of his friends, or Confederats in Italy, him selfe might speedily be able to succor him.

King Philip, aduertized of this iealozy commanded Count Fuentes to disarme, whereby al these suspitions ceased.

Not-with-standing, the Venetians sent the Colonell Pier-conte with other Captaines into Lombardy; whither like-wise by their commandement the Ge∣nerall Leonardo Donato was gone, together with Giouan Baptista, Generall of their fantery, to fortifie their frontier townes, hauing discouered a plot laid to surprize [ 30] one of their cheefest Citties; and although Count Fuentes, by his masters com∣mandement, had deuided his Army at Milan into sundry parts, namely into Flan∣ders, Croatia, and to Prince Doria, yet he still retained such great numbers at Mi∣lan as might iustly cause his neighbors to feare and suspect: The Venetians like∣wise armed certaine Gallies and two Galeasses.* 3.141

Diuers causes mooued the Venetians to doe so, but cheefly, because Prince Doria, by King Phillips commandement, hauing rigged a mighty fleet houered vp and downe the mediterranean, no man knowing his deseigne: in the end he cleered this doubt, for he sailed to Argier in Barbary, making an attempt there, which by reason of sundry difficulties had no good successe. [ 40]

In the yeare 1602. the fort called Palma Noua by the Venetians was ended, and is thought to be one of the goodliest in all Italy, which beeing inhabited, they there beganne to build faire houses, and goodly Pallaces, so as in a short time they hope it will prooue as populus as strong. The Senate afterwards percei∣uing that one of the mouthes of Po, would in time choake vp with aboundance of earth, the Hauens of Chioggia and Malamoc, to the great preiudice and hin∣derance of the Citty of Venice, which by that meanes would loose the ordinary trafficke and commerce of those Hauens, caused a great trench to bee made, through which they diuerted that mouth of the Riuer another way, [ 50] making it to fall into the Sea at a place whereas it could doe noe more hurt.

At the same time Philippo Pascalic arriued at Venice returning from his iourney against the Vsicoques, hee was sent by the Senate as Prouidator▪

Generall of Dalmatia, wherein hee got great commendation, hauing defeated those theeues who were afterwards wholy rooted out by the Archduke. Theodoro Balbi likewise Prouidator of the Gulphe, did put the Pirates of Barbary to flight, who scou•…•…ed the seas almost to Venice, from whom hauing taken three Galeots,* 3.142 and set many Christian slaues at liberty, hee did so terrifie them, as they durst no more come into those seas: The great Dukes Galleys had the like good hap, which according to their custome sailing in the Archipelago to meet with Tur∣kish Foists, and to spoile their sea coasts, incountred the Galleys of Rhodes, which they fought with, tooke some of them, and carried a rich booty to Florence.

But not to stray farre from the Venetians, the Clergie of Prague hauing ve∣hemently [ 10] contested against Doctor Francisco Zabarello, for the •…•…ute prefer'd to* 3.143 sell certaine antient Church lands; The Senate made a decree, that the Church should not appropriate vnto it selfe rents possessed by the Layety, grounding that decree vpon a prohibition made by the Senate, in the yeare 1333. that no lands should bee giuen or bequeathed in perpetuity to Churches within the Citty and Dutchy of Venice: and if any were left vnto them, they should bee sold by a certaine time prefixt, and the money alone to be theirs: alledging for reason, that the Clergie, who pretend themselues and goods to bee exempt from all necessary charges belonging to the Common-wealth, the number of them dayly increa∣sing, and on the contrary, that of the Citizens still decreasing, who serue, and [ 20] busie themselues in the ciuill gouernment, and the quantity of their goods wher∣on the publick reuenew depends, beginning to faile, in the end all wealth would of necessity fall to the Clergie.

This law was variously obserued till the yeare 1536. when it was reduced to this forme, That none of what quality soeuer, should giue lands to the Church, but onely for two yeares space, in which time they should be sold: and if the sale were not made by the Clergie, a ciuill Magistrate should bee appointed to doe it. This beeing considered by the Senate, hath euer since beene generally practised ouer the whole Venetian state.

The yeare 1603. the Councell of the Preguays at Venice, decreed, that no [ 30] * 3.144 Venetian cittizen, of what degree or quality soeuer, should in the Citty, without the Senates consent, build any new Church, Hospitall, or Monastery, not that the Senate would wholy prohibit such buildings, but because the Prince and Senate as Superiours would consider whether it were needfull or not, there beeing in the citty one hundred and fifty Churches, Monasteries, Hospitalls, and other like pla∣ces of deuotion. The yeare following 1604. the Venetians inioying peace, warre remooued it selfe to other places, as Germany, the Leuant, and Flanders.

In the yeare 1605. Pope Clement the eight falling sick on the twelfth of Fe∣bruary, dyed on the third of March following, hauing gouerned the sea of Rome* 3.145 thirteene yeares, his body was carried to Saint Peters Church, and buried in the [ 40] Clementine chappell which himselfe had built: Then the Cardinalls entring in∣to the Conclaue, elected Alessandro de Medicis Cardinall of Florence, sonne to the illustrious Octauio, who beeing Archbishop of Florence, was made Cardinall by Pope Gregory the thirteenth, and beeing chosen Pope, tooke vpon him the* 3.146 name of Leo the tenth. The Romaines were very glad of his election, but their ioy lasted not long, for hee dyed of a Feuer, the twenty sixth day after hee was made Pope: Some thought hee was poysoned, but his body beeing opened in the presence of diuerse Physitions, they found it otherwise, hee lyes buryed in Saint Peters Church.

The Cardinals proceeding to a new election, and desirous to make haste, the [ 50] Cardinalls Farnese and Montalto went to Cardinall Aldobrandini, intreating him to name three among the whole Colledge of Cardinalls (Tuscus and Baronius excepted) and they would choose one of the three: Wherevpon,

the Cardinals Clement, Arragon, and Borgesius beeing named, Borgesius as best* 3.147 beloued, was presently saluted Pope by way of adoration, intitling himselfe Paul the fift. This Pope descended from an ancient family in Syenna, was sonne to a Romaine Gentlewoman, his Father comming to dwell at Rome.

But the Venetian Clergie, notwithstanding the Senates decree, did dayly more and more augment their reuenues and possessions, as well within the Citty as abroad: the Senate for reducing their whole State to one conformable custome, had before (as hath beene said) diuulged their law ouer all their dominions, and added therevnto a prohibition, that none within their Citty or Signory, vnder what coullor soeuer, should sell, giue, or in any sort alienate lands to the Clergie [ 10] without the Senates permission which should not be granted, but with the same solemnities, vsuall at the alienation of the publick reuenue, and all alienations made otherwise, to bee declared voide, the lands confiscate, and Notaries puni∣shed. The Pope at the beginning of his Papacie, hauing notice of this law, did duly examine it, and would in no sort approoue it: but toward the end of Octo∣ber the same yeare, complained thereof to the Venetian Ambassador, at the time of publick audience▪ saying, That whilest the Sea of Rome was vacant, the Veneti∣ans* 3.148 had made a lawe, which prohibited the Clergie to purchase lands; adding (though it were made vpon important occasion, and by vertue of a former de∣dree) yet the Cannons disanulled them both; therefore his pleasure was to haue [ 20] them reuoked, inioyning the Ambassador in his name, to signifie as much to the Signory.

The Ambassador did what the Pope commanded, and within a while after re∣ceiued instruction and Commission from the Senate, to acquaint his Holynesse with the equity of their cause, and iustice of their law, together with the Signo∣ries power, and authority to make such decrees. The Pope, confident in his owne opinion, said aloud, That he gaue him audience, onely to content the Venetians, and not to admit any of his propounded reasons or excuses: then made an other▪ complaint, about the detaining of a Channon of Vincenza, and the Abbot of Nerueze, both of them accused of notorious crimes: and within a while after [ 30] another, concerning the law, forbidding to build Churches without permission: beeing resolute to haue those two lawes reuoked, and the prisoners deliuered to his Nuncio residing in Venice. And on the tenth day of September, making two Iniunctions, one concerning the two lawes, and the other about sentencing the Clergie, hee sent a Commission to his Nuncio to present them, resoluing vpon their answer and refusall, to proceed to excommunication. But the Nuncio bee∣ing peraduenture mooued with pitty, because the Senate at that time had chosen* 3.149 an extraordinary Ambassador, by humble meanes to seeke to diuert his Holinesse from his resolution, and to induce him better to consider of the matter, delaied the presentation of those iniunctions, which the Pope tooke in bad part: wherevpon, [ 40] in all hast he sent him an expresse commandement to present them without far∣ther delay. In regard whereof, vpon Christmasse day, when Duke Grimani lay at point of death, and that the Signory and Senators were assembled, some of whom had receiued the holy Sacrament, and others were ready to receiue, the Nuncio craued audience, and presented the two iniunctions, which, notwithstanding the Dukes death happened the day following, were not opened till after the election of the new Duke.

Prince Grimani hauing gouerned nine yeares and odde moneths, departed this mortall life in the Christmasse holy-dayes, in the yeare 1605. his funerals ended, Leonardo Donato Knight, and Procurator of Saint Marke, was after the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 man∣ner [ 50] chosen in his steed, on the tenth day of February 1606.

[illustration]

LEONARDO DONATO the 90. Duke.

[ 10]

[ 20]

AFter his election, the two iniunctions beeing opened, were both of one substance, containing that his Holynesse was aduertised, that the Venetian Senate had decreed diuerse things contrary to the liberty of the Church, and authority of the Sea Aposto∣lick, and diuulged ouer all their Signories certaine lawes parti∣cular to the Citty of Venice, forbidding to build Churches and Monasteries, and to allienate secular possessions to the Clergie, without the Se∣nates [ 30] permission: which as repugnant to the Churches liberty, his Holynesse de∣clared to bee of no force; and they who had made them, to haue incurred Eccle∣siasticall censures, commanding them on paine of excommunication, presently to reuoke and breake those lawes; threatning to proceed farther, if they obeyed him not.

To this, the Senate answered on the 28. of Ianuary, the same yeare 1606. That with greefe and amazement it vnderstood by his Holynesse letters, that hee disliked the lawes of the Venetian common-wealth, prosperously obserued for* 3.150 many ages, and neuer till then taxed by any of his predecessors, the reuocation whereof would ouer-throw the foundation of their State; that hee accounted [ 40] those lawes to be contrary to the authority of the Sea Apostolick, blaming those which made them, as infringers of the Churches liberty, notwithstanding that they had beene men of singular piety, done good seruice to the Sea of Rome, and were now in heauen: That the Senate according to his Holinesse aduertise∣ment, had examined both the old and new lawes, and could find nothing in t•…•…em, but what might be decreed by a Soueraigne Prince; concluding, that the Vene∣tians did not thinke that they had incur'd any censures, nor that his Holynesse, repleate with piety and religion, would without considering the cause, continue his menaces. This answer did much •…•…isplease the Pope•…•…, who presently thundred an excommunication against them, which on the seuenteenth day of Aprill the [ 50] * 3.151 same yeare, was published ouer all Rome, and hung vp in the vsuall places, name∣ly on the great gates of Saint Peters Church, Chancery, and Market place of Campo de Fiore, by Christofero Fondut•…•…, and Giouan Dominico de Pace, the Popes Pursuiuant▪

The Prince and Senate hauing intelligence what was done at Rome, to preuent popular troubles and commotions, which might thereby arise in the townes and cities of their iurisdiction, were desirous to acquaint all their subiects therewith,* 3.152 and to this end, made two declarations, the one directed to all the Clergy of their dominions, and the other to the Magistrates and officers of the State, to stop and restraine all disorders that might arise: wherevpon all that yeere diuers bookes were written on both sides, some condemning the Venetians, others the Pope, e∣uery man according to his owne passion.

But at last this contention had like to haue beene decided by the sword, both sides making great preparations for warre: for the Venetians hauing intelligence [ 10] that great numbers of horse and foot were already leuied at Ferrara, and that the Romans had offered to aide the Pope in that warre with men and money, they likewise for their parts raised forces, fortifying their townes with men and necessa∣ry munition, because they would not be taken vnprouided, so that there was great likelihood of a bloudy warre: But our good God, who with an eye of pitty lookes vpon his children, and takes no pleasure to see their bloud spilt, raised vp a Me∣diator, by whose meanes this schisme and controuersie betwixt Christians was appeased.

It was Henry the fourth French King, who to preuent the danger and skandall* 3.153 which might arise by this warre, did speedily send the Cardinall Ioyeuse to the [ 20] Pope and Venetians, from him and in his name to mediate peace betwixt them; which had good successe. For Cardinall Ioyeuse being in hast dispatched from France with instructions from the King, necessary for his negociation, arriued at Rome on a Thursday night the three and twentith of March 1607. and the same euening conferred with the Cardinals and French Ambassador about pro∣pounding this businesse to the Pope, the next day after dinner, himselfe and the Ambassador went to see his Holinesse, vnto whom the Cardinall did at large re∣ueale the cause of his comming: But because the Pope seemed inexorable to any entreaty of agreement with the Venetians, till the Clergy and Iesuits were first restored to their Churches and Colledge (the Venetians still oppugning the Ie∣suits) [ 30] the Cardinal at this first audience would not altogether put him out of hope of their restitution, but only told him that he did not despaire of reconciling the Iesuits to the Venetians, hauing bethought himselfe of a fit meanes by which hee hoped if his Holinesse would make vse thereof to preuaile, which the next day he promised to propound.

The Pope, desirous to know his deuise, did early the next day send for them, and then the Cardinall Ioyeuse told him, that to hope by any expresse treaty to obtaine of the Venetian Senate the restauration of the Fathers Iesuits, were but to lose time, and to no purpose, but if his Holinesse would giue him ample commission and authority to reuoke the censures, and with it send him to Venice; he shewing [ 40] this commission to the Senate, and saying vnto them, •…•…oe, I haue here power and authority to take away the interdiction, but vpon this condition, that you restore the Iesuits, happily the sight thereof will make some impression in them.

The Pope made shew that hee neither would nor could approoue this mo∣tion, saying, that he had engaged his promise not to abandon the Iesuits, who had beene expulsed for fauoring his interdiction, vnto whom hee had giuen his word neuer to be reconciled to the Venetians till they were restored, and after sundry other allegations this second conference was to no purpose, euery man percei∣uing by his Holinesse countenance that he was much perplexed.

The French Cardinalls and other of the Kings seruants, meeting to consult [ 50] vpon some meanes to remooue these difficulties, entreated the Cardinall Per∣ron to goe the next day after dinner to get expresse audience of the Pope, and if it were possible, to induct him, to grant certaine points for the furtherance of the businesse.

Cardinall Perron at their intreaty, vndertooke the matter, and for a while dis∣puted* 3.154 with his Holinesse about the restauration of the Iesuits, shewing him the danger wherevnto he exposed the Church and Christian Religion for one parti∣cular order, whose restoring was to be hoped for, though for a time deferred: he told him that his Holinesse should first re-establish his owne authority in Venice, and that once done, there was no doubt but that the Iesuits would ere long bee restored; and after many other important reasons, he at last obtained of his Holi∣nesse, that seeing for that present he could not preuaile in the Iesuits behalfe, hee should let it passe and insert some clause in the Articles, whereby it might appeare to the world that he had not neglected their restauration. [ 10]

Then the Cardinall speaking of the Commission, the Pope would hardly bee drawne therevnto, supposing it to be dishonorable for the sea Apostolike, saying* 3.155 that the re•…•…ocation of the censures ought to bee done at Rome, and not sent to Venice; notwithstanding, the Cardinall alleadging diuers reasons to the contra∣ry, the Pope at last consented to giue the Cardinall Ioyeuse a commission to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the censures, which he should carry with him to Venice, but on this conditi∣on, to do his best for the restauration of the Iesuits, before he disanulled the inter∣diction. Hee did also (though with some difficulty) induce his Holinesse to bee pleased▪ that the French Ambassador resident at Rome, and not he which lay at Venice should in the French King and Venetian Signories name craue of him [ 20] the reuocation of the censures in writing, for the Pope told him that the Spa∣nish Ambassador resident at Venice, had craued it in the name of his Master and the Signory.

In a word, his Holinesse granted all his demands, onely he seemed vnwilling to declare his intent to the Consistory, saying he supposed that he ought not to doe it publikely, because he had not yet acquainted the Cardinals therewith, neuer∣thelesse hee would resolue vpon it, and the next day in the consistory would im∣part it to some particular Cardinals, and the same after-noone, call them one after an other into his chamber to take their vowes in secret.

According to his resolution his Holinesse hauing in the consistory declared his [ 30] intention to some particular Cardinals, he did the same after▪noone call the rest into his chamber, secretly to take their vowes, and in that businesse spent the week. The Spaniards being iealous and malcontent that they were not imployed in that negociation, and desirous to frustrate the matter, divulged certaine rumors, con∣trary to the Popes will and meaning, and among others a cunning letter written from Venice by D. Francesco de Castro, by which he certified the Pope, that if hee stood fast for the restoring of the Iesuits, he should obtaine it, and that the Vene∣tians determined to make protestation, by surrending the prisoners, contrary to that which had beene concluded, and which his Holinesse had promised to him∣selfe. These false rumors did somewhat trouble the Pope who therevpon made [ 40] * 3.156 some difficulty to proceed any fa•…•…ther; but Cardinall Perron soliciting and assuring him of the contrary, hee deliuered (according to his former resolution) the com∣mission to Cardinall Ioyeuse willing him to make hast to Venice.

The Spaniards being not able to crosse this resolution, made sute to haue Car∣dinall Zapala to bee ioyned in commission with Cardinall Ioyeuse, but their labor was lost; and yet in other solemnities Zapala and the Spanish Ambassador had in apparence some e•…•…uality which the French Kings Ministers, because in their Kings name they were sureties for the Venetian Signory, as were Cardinal Ioyeuse and the French Ambassador for the Christian King: yet the world accounted it but a vai•…•…e and idle fable, for they had no such authority from the Signory of [ 50] Venice, as had the French, who executed their commission to their Kings great fame and glory.

Cardinall Ioyeuse, together with the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, receiued from his Holinesse the conditions on which the censures were to be reuoked, being in number sixe,

the effect whereof is thus: That the two Church men prisoners, namely the Abbot* 3.157 of Nerueze, and the Channon of Vincenza, shall bee freely giuen to the Pope: That his Holinesse shall reuoke his censures, making a declaration thereof to the Colledge: That the Venetian Signory shall within a while after send an Am∣bassage to the Pope: That the Duke by a declaration shall certifie the Clergy of his State, that the first declaration is reuoked: That the three Decrees mentioned in the Popes interdiction, and other lawes of the Signory shall continue in their full force and power, with this prouiso, that the Senate shall promise the French and Catholike Kings not to execute them before the businesse be fully ended be∣twixt [ 10] his Holinesse and the State of Venice, hauing first better and more amply informed the Pope of the iustice and equity of those lawes: And lastly that all Churchmen and Religious orders which are banished and expulsed from Venice, or the iurisdiction thereof, by reason of these troubles, may returne home to their houses and couents. But concerning the returne of the Iesuits, his Holinesse is content to deferre it, till an Ambassador from the Signory haue treated particu∣larly with him concerning that point, certifying him that their expulsion pro∣ceeds from certaine causes and reasons which haue no community with the in∣terdiction, and if it shall be found otherwise, then as easily to admit the restaurati∣on of the Iesuits, as that of other Clergy men.

Now Cardinall Ioyeuse departed from Rome with commission and Articles, [ 20] * 3.158 and arriued at Venice, where hee was honorably receiued and entertained, many Senators going to meet him in the Bucentaure: Then the next day, beeing the twentith of Aprill, one of the States Secretaries, accompanied with the captaine* 3.159 and other officers of the prison, and for greater solemnity, with a publike Notary, brought the two prisoners to the house of the Sieur de Fresne, Ambassador to the French King, and deliuered them to him, as granted to the Pope at the intreaty of the King his Master, without preiudice to the States iurisdiction in such like ca∣ses, and the French Ambassador did presently consigne them into the hands of the Cardinall Ioyeuse who was in the same house, in the presence of the Secretary, with these words, These are the prisoners which the Signory hath granted to his Ho∣linesse, [ 30] not adding at whose entreaty, and so the Cardinall receiued them as the Popes prisoners; wherevnto the Secretary at that time made no reply: In this manner by this omission on the one part, and silence on the other, it seemeth that some doubt, not well vnderstood, remayned betwixt the Pope and Signory, which neuerthelesse holds it honor preserued by the forme of the consignation inregestred by a publike Notary: and the Cardinall supposeth that the Pope ought to rest satisfied with the words of the Sieur de Fresne, or rather with his ca∣suall or voluntary omission.

Then the next morning, which was the day appointed by the Senate, the Car∣dinall* 3.160 comming to the Colledge, after some circumstances of the Popes fatherly [ 40] goodnesse, did assure them that the censures were reuoked, & hauing giuen them his blessing went to celebrate masse in the Patriarkes Church.

The Dukes first declaration was likewise reuoked in this manner. Leonardo Donato by the grace of God Duke of Venice &c. To the reuerend Patriarkes Arch∣bishops,* 3.161 and Bishops of our State and iurisdiction of Venice, and to the Vickars, Abbots, Priors, Rectors of parrish Churches, and all other Ecclesiasticall Pre∣lats, greeting. Seeing it hath pleased our good God to finde out a way where∣by our holy Father Pope Paul the fifth hath beene daylie informed as well of our good meaning, as integrity of our actions and continuall honour and [ 50] reuerence which wee beare to the Sea of Rome, and thereby to take away all cause of strife, Wee, as wee haue euer desired and procured vnity, and good cor∣respondence with the said Sea, of which wee are louing and obedient children, receiue likewise this contentation, to haue at last obtained the accomplishment of our holy desire.

Therefore we thought good by our declaration to aduertise you hereof, giuing you besides to vnderstand, that whatsoeuer did belong herevnto, hauing beene faithfully performed on both parts, and the censures and interdiction remoued; the protestation likewise, which we made against them, hath beene and is reuoked: we being desirous that herein, and in all other our actions, the piety and religion of our State may still more and more appeare, the which we will carefully ob∣serue, as our Predeoessors haue euer done. Giuen in our Ducall pallace the one and twentith of Aprill 1607. signed Marco Ottobo•…•… Secretary.

The Duke hauing published this declaration, and by deliuery of the prisoners satisfied for his part the conditions mentioned in the accord, the Senate was per∣plex•…•…, [ 10] * 3.162 with a doubt of no meane consequence, which was, that the Pope for his part hauing made no mention at all concerning bookes and writings, published in behalfe of the said decrees, nor of the authors of the said bookes, which are two very important points, and which did wholly seeme to breake of this reconciliati∣on, the State doubting that the Pope by this silence and omission had an intent to proceed afterwards against the Authors of the said bookes by the ordinary way of Ecclesiasticall iustice; and thinking it a matter against all reason to aban∣don those that had done them such good and faithfull seruice, after mature con∣sultation, the Senate made a very notable and honorable decree that the Signory [ 20] should protect them against all men, and assigne them a perpetuall pention. In this manner, is the Commonwealth by Gods goodnesse, and reuocation of the censures, restored to her former ancient peace and glory.

The end of the fourth and last Booke of the seuenth Decade of the History of Uenice.

FINIS.

Notes

• * 1.1

  The Emperor Maximillians Ambassador come to Venice in the Popes behalfe.
• * 1.2

  The Senates answer to the Ambassadors.
• * 1.3

  A league be∣twixt the Em∣peror Maxi∣millian and Lewis the French King.
• * 1.4

  King Lewis his Ambassa∣dor at Venice.
• * 1.5

  The Senates answer to the Ambassador.
• * 1.6

  The Venetians resolution.
• * 1.7

  The Popes an∣swer to the Ve∣netians offers.
• * 1.8

  Agreement be∣twixt the Pope and the Vene∣tians.
• * 1.9

  The Popes re∣quest to the French King.
• * 1.10

  The Emperors request to the Venetians.
• * 1.11

  The Venetians answer to the Emperor.
• * 1.12

  Iohn Paul Bail∣lon, yeeldeth vp Porugia and her territory to the Pope.
• * 1.13

  The Pope threatncth th•…•… Bentiuo•…•…es
• * 1.14

  The Bentiuoles being discou∣raged, submit to the Pope.▪
• * 1.15

  Bolognia yeel∣ded to the Pope.
• * 1.16

  The King of Arragon com∣meth into the Realme of Na∣ples.
• * 1.17

  Lewis the French King commeth in•…•… Italy.
• * 1.18

  The great ha∣tred which the Pope did beare to the Veneti∣ans.
• * 1.19

  1507.
• * 1.20

  A strang suspi∣tion of the Pope concer∣ning the King.
• * 1.21

  The false re∣ports which the Pope threw abroad against the king.
• * 1.22

  Enteruiew of king of France and Arragon at Sauona.
• * 1.23

  Aduertize∣ments to the Princes of Germany to cleere the suspition of the French King.
• * 1.24

  VVhat was concluded in the Dyet at Constance.
• * 1.25

  The Venetians greatly per∣plexed.
• * 1.26

  The Venetians resolute an∣swer to the Emperors am∣bassadors.
• * 1.27

  The Emperor finde to him∣selfe frustrate of his hopes.
• * 1.28

  The Pope refu∣seth the Em∣perors request.
• * 1.29

  The great pre∣parations of King Lewis & the Venetians to stop the Em∣perors passage.
• * 1.30

  The Emperor summons those of Verona to g•…•…ue him passag.
• * 1.31

  The Emperor commeth to∣wards Vincen∣za and on a so∣daine retur∣neth into Ger∣many.
• * 1.32

  The Venetians great prepara∣tions.
• * 1.33

  The Almains defeated in the vale of Cadora.
• * 1.34

  The Emperor reiteraeteth his Am•…•…assadio the Venetians for passage.
• * 1.35

  The Senates answer to the Emperors Am∣bassador.
• * 1.36

  Aluiana his exploits in Friul.
• * 1.37

  An old man's speech to the Senate.
• * 1.38

  warrs resolued against Maxi∣milian.
• * 1.39

  Flight of the Venetian Gar∣rison
• * 1.40

  Maximilians Army desolued for a small oc∣casion.
• * 1.41

  The Castle of Creste yeelded to the Veneti∣ans.
• * 1.42

  The Venetians retire from be∣fore the Fort of la Pietra.
• * 1.43

  The Venetians refuse to grant Maximilian truce for three yeares▪
• * 1.44

  Iarring be∣twixt the Com missioners as∣sembled about the truce▪
• * 1.45

  Truce be∣twixt the Em∣perour and the Venetians.
• * 1.46

  The French King complai∣neth of the truce.
• * 1.47

  The French King 〈◊〉〈◊〉 bleth.
• * 1.48

  What was practised vn∣der hand a∣gain ct the Ve∣netians.
• * 1.49

  Confederacy of the Pope, Emperor, French King, and King of Arragon, a∣gainst the Ue∣netians.
• * 1.50

  The Confede∣racy ratified by the Empe∣ror and the two Kings.
• * 1.51

  The difficulty which the Pope made to ratifie the consedera∣cie.
• * 1.52

  The Popes se∣cret menaces to the Veneti∣ans.
• * 1.53

  The Venetians secret practises with Maximil∣ian.
• * 1.54

  The Venetians great prepara∣tions for their defence.
• * 1.55

  Ambuscado 〈◊〉〈◊〉 surprise the Count Petillan
• * 1.56

  The Pope ra∣tifieth the treaty of Ca•…•…∣bray.
• * 1.57

  The Venetians attempt in vaine to be re∣conciled to the Pope, and the Emperor.
• * 1.58

  The Venetians are astonished at sondry bad presages▪
• * 1.59

  The Venetians army on the entry of the country of Gi∣radade.
• * 1.60

  Sondry opini∣ons of the Ve∣netian Cap∣taines.
• * 1.61

  The Lord of Chaumont General of the Kings army.
• * 1.62

  The French take Treui.
• * 1.63

  Casal-Maior yeelded.
• * 1.64

  The Popes ter∣rible monitory against the Venetians,
• * 1.65

  The Duke of Venice his an∣swere to the French Kings Herald.
• * 1.66

  The Venetians Armie at Foutane lla.
• * 1.67

  The Venetians recouer Treui.
• * 1.68

  The Kings Armie 〈◊〉〈◊〉 very neer to that of the Venetians.
• * 1.69

  Sundry opini∣ons in the Kings Armie.
• * 1.70

  The Kings resolution to enforce the enemies to fight.
• * 1.71

  The number of the Kings Armie.
• * 1.72

  The number of the Venetians Army.
• * 1.73

  The Kings Armie and that of the Venetians, fight suriously one with an other.
• * 1.74

  The Venetians lose the battle of Gyradade.
• * 1.75

  The King tak∣e to Carauagia.
• * 1.76

  Bressia yeeld∣eth to the king.
• * 1.77

  How the Vene∣tians were daunted at the report of the battails losse.
• * 1.78

  The Venetians offer to the Pope.
• * 1.79

  The Venetians seeke to be re∣conciled to the Emperor.
• * 1.80

  The great pro∣gression of the French army.
• * 1.81

  Al Romagnia ye•…•…ldeth to the Pope vpon the same onely of the Kings victory.
• * 1.82

  The Duke of Terrara de∣clares him▪selfe against the Ue∣netians. The Marquis of Mantua doth the like. The Emperors army vnder the Duke of Brunswic.
• * 1.83

  The Venetians quit Padua Verona, and ther places of the firme land.
• * 1.84

  The Venetians obtaine no∣thing of the Pope nor Em∣peror.
• * 1.85

  Hope giuen to the Venetians.
• * 1.86

  The Pope be∣ing mooued with pitty, takes compas∣sion on the Venetians.
• * 1.87

  Treuiso co•…•…∣tinueth obe∣dient to the Venetians.
• * 1.88

  The Venetians take courage.
• * 1.89

  An enteruiew resolued on betwixt the Emperor and the French King.
• * 1.90

  The Emperour on a sodaine breaketh the enteruiew.
• * 1.91

  The Venetians take Padua.
• * 1.92

  The French Kings resolu∣tion.
• * 1.93

  The Venetians masters of the Champaine country.
• * 1.94

  New agree∣ments betwixt the Pope and the King.
• * 1.95

  The Marquis of Mantua taken prisoner and brought to Venice.
• * 1.96

  Cadora taken and sackt by the Imperials.
• * 1.97

  The Emperour propoundeth to assault Ve∣nice,
• * 1.98

  Frangipane makes warre in Histria.
• * 1.99

  The Venetian Ambassadors come by might into Rome.
• * 1.100

  The Emperor determines to beseege Padua.
• * 1.101

  The great Turkes offer to the Venetian Senate.
• * 1.102

  The Emperors progression nere to Padua.
• * 1.103

  The Empero•…•… beseeged Pa∣dua.
• * 1.104

  The number of the Emperours army.
• * 1.105

  The number of the army in Padua.
• * 1.106

  The Count Pe∣tillan hath the command in Padua.
• * 1.107

  The King of Hungary will by no meanes make warre on the Venetians, being solicited therevnto.
• * 1.108

  Assault giuen to a Rauelin of the city.
• * 1.109

  Assault giuen to the breach of the Bastion of Codolonga•…•…
• * 1.110

  These that came to the assault retire.
• * 1.111

  There Empe∣ror raiseth his campe from before Padua.
• * 1.112

  The Emperor re•…•…rneth into Germany.
• * 1.113

  Contention be∣twixt the Pope and the King. VVhat the Popes meaning was.
• * 1.114

  The Popes an∣swer to those who hindered the Venetians absolution.
• * 1.115

  The Venetians recouer Vin∣cenza.
• * 1.116

  The Imperials succor Verona with men and victuals.
• * 1.117

  The Venetians nauall army scoureth the Po as farre as Fiquerolles.
• * 1.118

  The cause of the Venetians ha∣tred to the Duke of Fer∣rara.
• * 1.119

  The Venetian General builds two Bastions on the two banks of Po.
• * 1.120

  The Venetians driue the Fer∣rarois from the Bastions▪
• * 1.121

  The Venetians recouer the Pollesin.
• * 1.122

  The Venetians prouide for Legnaga, Sua∣ua, and Vin∣cenza.
• * 1.123

  The Duke of Ferrarade∣seateth the Ve∣netians naual army.
• * 1.124

  The Duke of Ferrara takes Loretta.
• * 1.125

  The Emperour goeth to bold a Dyet at Ins∣pruch.
• * 1.126

  A treaty of trnce, motioned betwixt the Imperor and the Venctians, broken.
• * 1.127

  The Emperors proposition to the French King.
• * 1.128

  The Pope ab∣solutly the Ve∣netian.
• * 1.129

  Maximillian and the French King are dis∣pleased with the Pope for absoluing the Venetians.
• * 1.130

  The Popes bad meaning to the French King.
• * 1.131

  The Kings an∣ger against the Swisses.
• * 1.132

  VVherevnto the Popes acti∣ons tended.
• * 1.133

  The enterprize vpon Verona discouered.
• * 1.134

  The Pope in batred to the King doth as∣saile the Duke of Ferrara a new.
• * 1.135

  The French King greatly perplexed.
• * 1.136

  The Lord of Chaumont tak∣eth the Polle∣sin of Rouigo.
• * 1.137

  The Vincen∣tine commissi∣oners craue pardon of the Prince of An∣balt.
• * 1.138

  The Vincen∣tines yeeld themselues to the victors mercy.
• * 1.139

  The French be∣seege Legnaga.
• * 1.140

  Legnaga taken.
• * 1.141

  The death of the Cardinal of Amboyse.
• * 1.142

  The Lord of Chaumont takes diuers places which stopped the Emperors com∣ming into Ita∣ly.
• * 1.143

  Verona and her territory pawned to the King for a hundred thou∣sand crownes.
• * 1.144

  Monselesia with her Castle taken & ruyned
• * 1.145

  The Lord of Chaumont with his forces returneth to the Dutchy of Milan.
• * 1.146

  The Popes dis∣content against the King.
• * 1.147

  The Popes se∣cret practises.
• * 1.148

  Genoa assured for the King.
• * 1.149

  The Popes ar∣my taketh Mo∣dena.
• * 1.150

  Six thousand Swisses come to Varese a∣gainst the king
• * 1.151

  The six thou∣sand Swisses returne home into their con∣try for want of victualls and mony.
• * 1.152

  The Venetians recouer all the places neere to Padua which had bin taken by the French.
• * 1.153

  Verona be∣sieged.
• * 1.154

  The number of the Vene∣netian Army.
• * 1.155

  The Venetians raise their Campe from before Verons.
• * 1.156

  The King of Hungary sum∣moneth the Venetian Am∣bassador.
• * 1.157

  The Venetians take Azola.
• * 1.158

  The Marquis of Mantua is set at liberty.
• * 1.159

  Enterprise vpon Genoa.
• * 1.160

  The Venetian fle•…•… sh•…•…'t by a tempest.
• * 1.161

  The Popes great resoluti∣on against the Duke of Fer∣rara.
• * 1.162

  The Popes preparations against the cit∣ty of Ferrara.
• * 1.163

  The Venetians intelligence vpon Bressia discouered.
• * 1.164

  The Ferrarois defeateth two •…•…cetes of the Venetians.
• * 1.165

  The Pope ex∣•…•… Alfonso of Este and all his ad∣herents.
• * 1.166

  A Generall councel pub∣lished at Lyons.
• * 1.167

  The Bishop of Gurcia com∣meth into France from the Emperor.
• * 1.168

  New confede∣racy betwixt the Emperor and the French King▪
• * 1.169

  The French army marcheth toward Bolo∣gnia where the Pope lay.
• * 1.170

  The Earle of Mirandole sent from the Pope to the Lord of Chaumont.
• * 1.171

  The Pope takes courage, at the comming of supplies.
• * 1.172

  The Lord of Chaumont dis∣trusts the vic∣tory.
• * 1.173

  The Lord of Chaumont re∣tireth from Bolognia.
• * 1.174

  The Pope re∣turneth to his former wr•…•…h.
• * 1.175

  The Duke of Ferrara assai∣leth the Uene∣tians naual Army.
• * 1.176

  The Popes ar∣my taketh Sa•…•…∣suala.
• * 1.177

  The Popes pro∣position to the Captains of his Army.
• * 1.178

  Concorda ta∣ken by the Popes Amy.
• * 1.179

  The Cause of the Kings loo∣sing of Miran∣dola.
• * 1.180

  Those of Mi∣randola yeeld, vpon s•…•…fety of their liues and goods.
• * 1.181

  The different opinions of the French Cap∣taines.
• * 1.182

  Triuulcio his oration in defence of his opini∣on.
• * 1.183

  The French Army march∣eth towards Modena.
• * 1.184

  A great earth∣quake at Ve∣nice.
• * 1.185

  The Popes for∣ces defeated before the Bas∣tid Geniuola.
• * 1.186

  The Emperor∣Maximillian inclineth to peace.
• * 1.187

  The King dis∣pleased with this new deter mination.
• * 1.188

  The practises of the King of Arragons Abassador.
• * 1.189

  The King sen∣deth the Bishop of Paris to Mant•…•….
• * 1.190

  Gaston of Foix his incursions.
• * 1.191

  The Popes great enter∣tainment gi∣uen to the Bi∣shop of Gurcia at Bolognia.
• * 1.192

  Speech of a∣greement be∣twixt the Em∣peror and the Venetians.
• * 1.193

  The Pope breakes off the treaty.
• * 1.194

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…∣keth Concordia▪
• * 1.195

  Iohn Paul Manfron ta∣ken prisoner by Gaston of Foix.
• * 1.196

  Triuulcio draweth neere to Bolognia.
• * 1.197

  The Popes ex∣hortation to the Bolognois.
• * 1.198

  The answer of the Balognois to the Pope.
• * 1.199

  Sundry thoughts of the Bolognois.
• * 1.200

  The flight of the Cardinal of Pauia.
• * 1.201

  The Bentiuolcs with the French, are in Bolognia.
• * 1.202

  The flight of the Duke of Vrbin.
• * 1.203

  Iniury offered to the opes statue in Bo∣lognia.
• * 1.204

  In what man∣ner the Uene∣tians prouided for their Cities of the firme land.
• * 1.205

  The Cardinall of Pauia per∣formeth bad offices in the duke of Vrbins be•…•…alse.
• * 1.206

  The Cardinall of Pauia slaiue by the Duke of Vrbin.
• * 1.207

  Libels set vp in diuers places against the Pope.
• * 1.208

  The French King•…•… great desire to bee at peace with the Pope.
• * 1.209

  The Emperors sūdry thoughts.
• * 1.210

  The Venetian army retireth to Padua and Treuiso.
• * 1.211

  The Emperour changing his minde goeth back to Trent.
• * 1.212

  The Kings for∣ces in the Dutchy of Milan.
• * 1.213

  The Venetians do•…•… stil main∣taine their 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and great∣nesse.
• * 1.214

  Confederacy betwixt the Pope, the king of Arragon, and the Vene∣tians.
• * 1.215

  The number of the confede∣rates army.
• * 1.216

  Gaston of Foix Lieutenant ge∣neral for the King in the Dutchy of Milan.
• * 1.217

  The Swisses de∣fie Gaston of Foix.
• * 1.218

  The Swisses come down in∣to the Dutchy of Milan.
• * 1.219

  The Swisses re∣tu•…•…ne home 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.220

  The Bastide taken by the Spaniards.
• * 1.221

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 army marcheth to∣wards Bolog∣nia.
• * 1.222

  The forces that were i•…•… Bolognia.
• * 1.223

  The confede∣rates smal pro∣gression before Bolognia.
• * 1.224

  A breach made at Bolognia.
• * 1.225

  A strang mi∣racle in the mine.
• * 1.226

  Aide sent to the b•…•…seeged.
• * 1.227

  Gaston of Foix comes to the aide of Bolog∣nia.
• * 1.228

  The consede∣rates army dislodgeth from before Bolognia.
• * 1.229

  Gaston of Foix releeues the Castle of Bres∣sia.
• * 1.230

  Andre Griul re•…•…ireth.
• * 1.231

  The Venetians returning to the assault of Bressia, enter the City.
• * 1.232

  Bergamo ex∣pelleth the Frinch.
• * 1.233

  The speed of Gaston of Foix.
• * 1.234

  Iohn Paul Bail∣lon is broken and defcated by Gaston of Foi•…•….
• * 1.235

  Gaston of Foix defeateth Me∣leager of Fur∣li.
• * 1.236

  Gaston of Foix bauing entred the Castle of Bressia march∣eth to the res∣•…•…ue of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.237

  The French af∣ter a long fight became masters of the City.
• * 1.238

  André Gritti and Antonio Iustiniano ta∣ken prisoners. Count Lodo∣wick Auogare beheaded.
• * 1.239

  The losse of Bressia troub∣leth the Vene∣tians.
• * 1.240

  Truce agreed on betwixt the Emperor and the Venetian•…•…
• * 1.241

  The number of Gaston of Foix his army.
• * 1.242

  Gaston of Foix his great de∣sire to fight.
• * 1.243

  Gaston of Foix beseegeth Ra∣uenna.
• * 1.244

  The reso•…•…ue to assaile the ene∣my and not the Citty.
• * 1.245

  The French are victors in the battaile of Rauenna.
• * 1.246

  Goston of Foix is slaine by the Spaniards.
• * 1.247

  Rauenna taken and spoiled by the French.
• * 1.248

  VVhat asto∣nish nent the losse of the ba∣ta•…•…le brought to Rome.
• * 1.249

  The Popes per∣plexity.
• * 1.250

  The Pope will by no meanes haue peace with the French.
• * 1.251

  The Cardinall of Medicis prisoner at Milan.
• * 1.252

  The Swisses •…•…atred to the French King.
• * 1.253

  The Suisses take the way towards the Dutchy of Milan.
• * 1.254

  La Palisse for∣saketh the field, and gar∣deth the towns
• * 1.255

  The Lanceque∣nets forsake the French King.
• * 1.256

  The Venetians great progres∣sion in the company of the Suisses.
• * 1.257

  Triuultio com∣ming to the Army is of opi∣nion to aban∣don the Dut∣chy of Milan.
• * 1.258

  Genoa reuol∣teth from the King.
• * 1.259

  Legnaga yeel∣ded.
• * 1.260

  The treaty be∣twixt the Em∣peror and the Venetians handled.
• * 1.261

  Difficulties concerning the agreement.
• * 1.262

  League be∣twixt the Pope and the Empe∣ror.
• * 1.263

  Maximillian Sforza in pos∣session of the Dutchy of Milan.
• * 1.264

  The death o•…•… Pope Iulius the second.
• * 1.265

  A motion of agreem•…•…t be∣twixt the French King and the Uene∣tians.
• * 1.266

  The league concluded be∣twixt the King and the Vene∣tians.
• * 1.267

  The Articles of the League.
• * 1.268

  The election of Pope Leo the tenth.
• * 1.269

  The new Pope is t•…•…ssed with sondry thoughts
• * 1.270

  The Venetians constancy in mai•…•…tayning their▪ alliance.
• * 1.271

  The King pre∣pareth •…•…or his returne into Italy.
• * 1.272

  The number of the French Army.
• * 1.273

  The number of the Ventian Army.
• * 1.274

  The enterprise on Uerona discouered.
• * 1.275

  The Venetians take Valegia and P•…•…scara.
• * 1.276

  The Venetians take Cre•…•…a.
• * 1.277

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 descate some of the Uenetian •…•…orces.
• * 1.278

  The Lansque∣•…•…ets enterprise vpon Vincenza broken.
• * 1.279

  All the Dutch•…•… of Milan i•…•… •…•…proare.
• * 1.280

  Maximillian Sfoorza reti∣reth to Nouara
• * 1.281

  Milan reduced to the French gouernment
• * 1.282

  Br•…•…ssia yeelded.
• * 1.283

  The Suisses Protectors of of the State of Milan.
• * 1.284

  The Suisses discontent make warre on the French king.
• * 1.285

  The French besiege Nouara in vaine.
• * 1.286

  The French retire from before Nouara.
• * 1.287

  The resolution of the Suisses.
• * 1.288

  The Suisses sa•…•…ly fo•…•…to to fight with the French.
• * 1.289

  The French Campe in feare and confusion at the Suisses 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.290

  The Suisses great boldnesse
• * 1.291

  The Suisses victory at No∣•…•….
• * 1.292

  The whole Dut•…•…hy of Mil∣lan yeeldeth to 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.293

  Cremona ta∣ken and sack•…•… by the Spani∣ards.
• * 1.294

  Legnaga taken and dismant∣mantled by the Venetians.
• * 1.295

  The Venetians besiege & 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Verona.
• * 1.296

  Aluiana rai∣sing his siege, spoileth the Countrey.
• * 1.297

  The Castle of Legnaga taken by the Spani∣ards.
• * 1.298

  The Venetian Armie reti∣reth to Padua and Treuiso.
• * 1.299

  The Pope re∣uiueth the agreement be∣twixt the Em∣peror and the Venetians.
• * 1.300

  The Venetian•…•… constancie.
• * 1.301

  The Venetians offers to the French King.
• * 1.302

  The French Kings an•…•…wer 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Vene∣tians.
• * 1.303

  The Venetians 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the French King.
• * 1.304

  The Kings Submission to the Pope▪
• * 1.305

  The Popes re∣proachful spee∣ches of the Ve∣netians.
• * 1.306

  The Pope sen∣deth forces to the Emperor a∣gainst the Ue∣netians.
• * 1.307

  Prouisions made by the Venetians.
• * 1.308

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Army on the bankes of Adiss•…•….
• * 1.309

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Rance de Cere, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Crema.
• * 1.310

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 loose 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.311

  Of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 portance the taking of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 du•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.312

  The Imperials resolution to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Padua.
• * 1.313

  Padua furni∣shed of all things necessa∣ry to susteine a siege.
• * 1.314

  The number of the enemies before Padua.
• * 1.315

  The Imperials raise their siege from be∣fore Padua.
• * 1.316

  The enemies spoile & ruin•…•… Uincenza▪
• * 1.317

  The Senates opinion on Aluianas desire to fight with the enemy.
• * 1.318

  The incursions of the Imperial Army.
• * 1.319

  Aluiana his great grie•…•…e that he might not come •…•…orth
• * 1.320

  Aluiana his earnestnesse to the Senate that he might fight with the enemies.
• * 1.321

  The Senate permits Aluia∣na to come forth with his Army.
• * 1.322

  Aluiana 〈◊〉〈◊〉 eth himselfe at the enemies passage.
• * 1.323

  The Imperiall Army by night passeth the riuer Brente.
• * 1.324

  Aluiana en∣campeth at Olma, deter∣mining their to tarry for the enemy.
• * 1.325

  The Emperialls braue resolu∣tion.
• * 1.326

  The Prouida∣tor Loredan, slaine.
• * 1.327

  The constancy of the Veneti∣an Senate.
• * 1.328

  The tenor of the Senates let∣ters sent to Aluiana.
• * 1.329

  Prince Lore∣dan his remon∣strance.
• * 1.330

  Di•…•…ers Veneti∣an young gen∣tlmen are sent to Padua & Treuiso.
• * 1.331

  The seege of Treuiso is de∣ferd till ano∣ther time by Prospero 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.332

  Compromise made by the Pope.
• * 1.333

  Troubles in Asia.
• * 1.334

  Selims cruelty
• * 1.335

  A 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Ambassador sent to Selim•…•…
• * 1.336

  Achomat bro∣ther to •…•…elim vanqu sh•…•…d and slaine.
• * 1.337

  The Emperor Maximilian pro•…•…oketh Se∣lim against the Venetians.
• * 1.338

  Amurath Son to Achomat in armes against Selim.
• * 1.339

  Selim march∣•…•…th 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Asi•…•… with the army which he had prepared for Europe.
• * 1.340

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 on peace.
• * 1.341

  The difficulty which held backe the Pope from procu∣ring a generall peace.
• * 1.342

  The Paduan territory with the Frioul 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ruined by the enemies incursions.
• * 1.343

  Frangipan ta∣keth Maran by trechery.
• * 1.344

  The traitor punished.
• * 1.345

  The Venetians bese•…•…ged Ma∣ran.
• * 1.346

  The assault re∣solued on Ma∣ran in diuers places at once.
• * 1.347

  Those that gar∣ded the moun∣taines, forsak•…•… the passages.
• * 1.348

  The Campe be∣fore Maran disband•…•…th.
• * 1.349

  Frangipan en∣treth Maran with his suc∣cor•…•….
• * 1.350

  The Venetians 〈◊〉〈◊〉 defeated before Maran.
• * 1.351

  Strasoda and Montfal∣con taken by Frangipan.
• * 1.352

  A great fier in Venice.
• * 1.353

  A n•…•…w com∣promise in the Popes person concerning the strise betwixt the Emperor and the Vene∣tians.
• * 1.354

  The Almans take Feltre.
• * 1.355

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…∣dina abando∣ned to the 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.356

  Osof beseeged by the Almain•…•…
• * 1.357

  The enemies discamp•…•… from before Osof.
• * 1.358

  Rance de Cer•…•… his bra•…•…e ex∣ploits.
• * 1.359

  Difficulties in the agreement b•…•…twixt the Emperor and the Venetian•…•…▪
• * 1.360

  The Popes ar∣bitratiue s•…•…n∣tence.
• * 1.361

  The Venetians refuse to rati∣fie it.
• * 1.362

  The A•…•…mains defeated by the Venetians.
• * 1.363

  Frangipan is taken by the Venetians.
• * 1.364

  The Senate re∣compenceth Sauorgnane.
• * 1.365

  The meanes which the Se∣nate vsed to get money.
• * 1.366

  The Venetians beseege Maran.
• * 1.367

  The Senates intent is not to giue an assault▪
• * 1.368

  Vitturi the Prouidator is defeated and taken.
• * 1.369

  Rance de Cera 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Si•…•…uio 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to r•…•…ut.
• * 1.370

  Bergamo ta∣ken and soone lo•…•…t.
• * 1.371

  Aluiana tak∣•…•…th 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.372

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.373

  The country ▪ Friul at quiet by meanes of the taking of Frangipan.
• * 1.374

  The Uenetians giue great e•…•…∣tertaiment to Rance de Cera.
• * 1.375

  Selims victory against Ismael.
• * 1.376

  Soliman en∣treth Hungary.
• * 1.377

  A Croizado i•…•… Hungary a∣g•…•…inst the Turkes.
• * 1.378

  The great harme with the Croizade did to Hunga∣ry.
• * 1.379

  The Oration of the Popes Nunci•…•… to the Senate
• * 1.380

  The Senates resolution on Bembo his de∣mand.
• * 1.381

  The Prince his answere to the Popes Nunch.
• * 1.382

  The Senates suspition pri∣uately decla∣red to Bembo.
• * 1.383

  To what in∣tent the Spa∣niard spake to the Venetians of peace.
• * 1.384

  The Venetians hope on the French King.
• * 1.385

  The Venetians send Ambassa∣dors to the French King and the King of England.
• * 1.386

  The death of Lewis the 12. French King.
• * 1.387

  Francis Duke of Angoulesme French King.
• * 1.388

  King Francis confirmeth the league with the Venetians.
• * 1.389

  The Venetian Ambassadors in England.
• * 1.390

  The Ambas∣sadors request to the King of England.
• * 1.391

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 sent to the Archduke.
• * 1.392

  The Venetians d•…•…firous to draw the Pope to their party.
• * 1.393

  The Venetians send an Am∣bassador to the Pope.
• * 1.394

  The Ambassa∣dors remon∣stran •…•…e to the Pope.
• * 1.395

  The Popes de∣termination against the Ve∣netians
• * 1.396

  The Popes pub∣lication against the Uenetians.
• * 1.397

  King Francis his dissimula∣tion.
• * 1.398

  League be∣twixt the Em∣peror, the king of Arragon, the Duke of Milan and the Swisses.
• * 1.399

  The French Kings great preparation.
• * 1.400

  VVhat shifts the Pope vsed to declare him∣selfe openly a∣gainst the king
• * 1.401

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Bur∣bon Constable of France.
• * 1.402

  The number of the Kings army.
• * 1.403

  The Swisses de∣termination in the streights of the moun∣taines.
• * 1.404

  The Viceroy his enterprize on Vincenza.
• * 1.405

  Alu•…•…ana relee∣ueth Vincenza.
• * 1.406

  The Venetians incursion on the enemies.
• * 1.407

  The passages of Suza, Pegne∣r•…•…lles, and Sa∣l•…•…sles garded by the Swisses.
• * 1.408

  The French passe into Pied mont by Ar∣gentire.
• * 1.409

  The Suisses r•…•…∣tire to Nouara.
• * 1.410

  Prospero Colo∣na taken priso∣ner by the lord La Palisse.
• * 1.411

  The Pope ama∣zed at the Kings passage and the taking of Prospero Colonna.
• * 1.412

  The Swisses be∣gin to treate of agreement with the King.
• * 1.413

  Agreement contracted with the Swis∣ses, and bro∣ken the same day.
• * 1.414

  The number of the Venetian army conduc∣ted by Aluiana.
• * 1.415

  The King com∣•…•…th to Ma∣rignan.
• * 1.416

  Rance de Cera leauet the Ve∣netian party.
• * 1.417

  Marke Anto∣nio Colonna gardeth Ve∣rona.
• * 1.418

  Foure armies at one time in •…•…vly.
• * 1.419

  The number of Swisses.
• * 1.420

  The Cardi∣nal of Syons oration to the Swisses.
• * 1.421

  How greatly the Swisses were incited by this speech.
• * 1.422

  The Cardinal makes vse of false rumors.
• * 1.423

  The order of the French ar∣my in battaile.
• * 1.424

  Fight betwixt the French and Suisses.
• * 1.425

  The Lanceque∣nets open their rankes.
• * 1.426

  The battaile continueth till foure howers within night.
• * 1.427

  How the King ordai•…•…eth his Army that night.
• * 1.428

  The bataillis r•…•…neued by breake of day.
• * 1.429

  Aluiana com∣eth opportun∣ly to the battail
• * 1.430

  The Swisses re∣tire with soft pace towards Milan.
• * 1.431

  Dissention a∣mong the Swiss•…•…s in Mi∣la•…•… after the Battaill.
• * 1.432

  The Viceroy retireth to Naples.
• * 1.433

  Milan ye•…•…ldeth to the French King.
• * 1.434

  Vpon what Articl•…•…s Sforza yeeldēd the Castle of Mi∣lan.
• * 1.435

  The French Kings entry into Milan.
• * 1.436

  The King pro∣miseth a•…•…d to the Venetians.
• * 1.437

  Aluiana his enterprise vp∣on Bressia.
• * 1.438

  The Seege of Bressia resol∣ued on.
• * 1.439

  New succors enter into Bressia vn∣knowne to Al∣uiana.
• * 1.440

  Aluianas death.
• * 1.441

  The Senates recompence to the widdow and children of aluiana.
• * 1.442

  Iohn Iames Triuulce Ge∣nerall of the Venetian ar∣my.
• * 1.443

  Pescara taken by the Veneti∣ans.
• * 1.444

  Asola & Lona taken by the Venetians.
• * 1.445

  Bressia besee∣ged by the Ve∣netians.
• * 1.446

  Those of Bress•…•…∣make a sally on the Veneti∣ans Campe.
• * 1.447

  The retreat of the Venetian army.
• * 1.448

  Bressia againe beseeged by the French.
• * 1.449

  The Eance∣quenets refu∣sal.
• * 1.450

  Pedro of Na∣uarre makes vse of the mine at the seege of Bressia.
• * 1.451

  Pedro of Na∣uar his mine blo•…•…ne vp.
• * 1.452

  Great dearth in Bressia.
• * 1.453

  The Pope mo∣tioneth a peace
• * 1.454

  The King desi∣rous of the Popes friend∣sh•…•…p.
• * 1.455

  The Pope yeel∣ded Parma & Placentia to the King.
• * 1.456

  Enteruiew be∣twixt the Pope and French King at Bolognia.
• * 1.457

  The Articles concluded be∣twixt the Pope and King.
• * 1.458

  The compositi∣on of those of Biessia.
• * 1.459

  The arriuall of succors to Bressia, causeth the Venetians to raise their campe.
• * 1.460

  The raising of the campe a∣mazeth the City of Venice.
• * 1.461

  Triuulce lea∣ueth his charge.
• * 1.462

  The Duke of Bourbon vice∣roy in the Dutchy of Mi∣lan.
• * 1.463

  The Kings af∣fection to∣wards the Ve∣netians.
• * 1.464

  The Lord of Lautrec com∣meth to the Uenetian ar∣my before Bressia.
• * 1.465

  The Popes practises to breake the seege.
• * 1.466

  The Venetians resolue to con∣tinue the seege.
• * 1.467

  The practises of the Empe∣ror, king of England, and the Pope a∣gainst the French.
• * 1.468

  Sundry opini∣ons in the Ve∣netians campe.
• * 1.469

  Manfron, and de Bue, are de∣feated by the Imperials.
• * 1.470

  The Lanseque∣nets defeated at Ante by Fregosa.
• * 1.471

  The Emperors comming into Italy.
• * 1.472

  The Pope send∣eth the Cardi∣nall Bibiena Legat to the Emperor.
• * 1.473

  The Venetians exhort the French King.
• * 1.474

  The Venetians offer to the King.
• * 1.475

  The number of the French & Italian forces.
• * 1.476

  The number of the Imperiall •…•…rmy.
• * 1.477

  The Swisses nature.
• * 1.478

  The whole country be∣twixt Oglio, Po and Adda yeeld to the Emperor.
• * 1.479

  The French & Uenetian ar∣my retire to Milan.
• * 1.480

  The Emperor summoneth the City of Mi∣lan.
• * 1.481

  The diuersity of opinions in the City.
• * 1.482

  The arriuall of the Swisses at Milan for the Kings ser∣uice.
• * 1.483

  The Emperor distrusteth the Swisses.
• * 1.484

  The Marquis of Brandenbourg commeth to the Emperours army.
• * 1.485

  The French Kings com∣plaints against the Pope.
• * 1.486

  The Emperors deseignes come to no∣thing.
• * 1.487

  Lautrec be∣seegeth Bressia.
• * 1.488

  Bressia yeel∣deth on com∣position.
• * 1.489

  Lautrec beeing 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 doth 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 it to the Veneti∣ans.
• * 1.490

  Laut•…•…ec marcheth to beseege Uero∣•…•…a.
• * 1.491

  Sundry opin∣ons in Lautrecs campe.
• * 1.492

  Excuses a∣leadged by Lautrec, tha•…•… be might dis∣campe.
• * 1.493

  Gritti the Pro∣uidator, his answer to Lau∣trec.
• * 1.494

  The Venetians resolution.
• * 1.495

  The cause which moo•…•…ad Lautrec to stay still where he was.
• * 1.496

  The number of the Venetians army.
• * 1.497

  The Lansque∣nets refuse to beseege a City belonging to the Emperour.
• * 1.498

  The army dis∣lodgeth by rea∣son of the Lansquenets refusall.
• * 1.499

  The Uenetians send supplies to the army.
• * 1.500

  VVhat forces were in Uero∣na.
• * 1.501

  Verona beseeg∣ed in two seue∣rall places.
• * 1.502

  Assault giuen to Verona.
• * 1.503

  The assailants re•…•…ire with losse.
• * 1.504

  Lautrec deli•…•…∣eth.
• * 1.505

  The Venetians remonstrance to Lautrec.
• * 1.506

  The Venetians stay to gard the bridge.
• * 1.507

  Rocandof the Alma•…•…n victu∣all th Verona.
• * 1.508

  The Prouida∣tors and Ve∣netian Senate in great care.
• * 1.509

  For what cause the French king would haue the Venetians to be aduertiz∣ed of the treaty.
• * 1.510

  The sum of the treaty of Noy∣on.
• * 1.511

  Verona againe beseeged.
• * 1.512

  The Emperor wholy enclin∣eth peace.
• * 1.513

  Uerona con∣signed to the Lord Lautrec for the French King, is pre∣sently deliue∣red to the Ve∣netians.
• * 1.514

  The great ioy of the Veronoi•…•… for that they were reduced vnder the sub∣iection of the Venetians.
• * 1.515

  The Senates acknowledge∣ment to the Lord Lautrec.
• * 1.516

  The Senate dis∣burdeneth the commonwealth in time of peace.
• * 1.517

  The Vniuersity of Padua rees∣tablished by th. Senate.
• * 1.518

  The Venetians send two Am∣bassadors t•…•… the great Turk•…•….
• * 1.519

  Selims victo∣ries.
• * 1.520

  The Mama∣l•…•…kes vanqui∣shed by Selim▪
• * 1.521

  Selim takes 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Cairo.
• * 1.522

  Selim granteth the Venetians demands.
• * 1.523

  The Venetians send Ambassa∣dors to Charles King of Spaine concerning tra•…•…fick.
• * 1.524

  The vsuall trade of the Venetian ves∣sels.
• * 1.525

  Truce •…•…∣ed betwixt the Emperor and the Venetians.
• * 1.526

  The Pope ex∣horteth christi∣an Princes to take armes a∣gainst the Turkes.
• * 1.527

  The Venetians answere •…•…o the Popes exhorta∣tion.
• * 1.528

  The Emperor Maximilian▪ death.
• * 1.529

  The French and Spanish King aspire to the Emperor.
• * 1.530

  The French Kings request to the Vene∣tians.
• * 1.531

  The Venetians answer to the French King.
• * 1.532

  Charles king of Spaine chosen Emperor.
• * 1.533

  Lewis King of Hungary pre∣par•…•…th for de∣fence against the Turke.
• * 1.534

  The alliance is renewed be∣twixt Soliman and the Vene∣tians.
• * 1.535

  The Uenetians arme against the Pirats.
• * 1.536

  VVhy the French King did distrust the Elect Em∣peror.
• * 1.537

  After what manner 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Pope would consent to •…•…he King•…•… preposi∣tion.
• * 1.538

  The Venetians suspect the French King.
• * 1.539

  The Emperor seeketh the Ve∣netians friend∣ship.
• * 1.540

  The com•…•…sso∣ners of the Emperor and the Venetians me•…•…t at Verona
• * 1.541

  The dem•…•…ds of the Vene∣tian commissi∣oners.
• * 1.542

  The assembly is broken of without any conclusion, and the Uenetians are put in hope of •…•… prosper•…•…s •…•…d.
• * 1.543

  An. 1520.
• * 1.544

  Soliman resol∣ueth to enuade the Realme of Hungary▪
• * 1.545

  An. 1521.
• * 1.546

  The oration of the Hun∣garian Am∣bassador.
• * 1.547

  VVhat the Se∣nate concluded after the Am∣bassadors ora∣tion.
• * 1.548

  Another Am∣bassador from the King of Hungary at Ve∣•…•…ice.
• * 1.549

  The Venetians send the King of Hungary thirty thou∣sand Duca•…•…s
• * 1.550

  Belgrade taken 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Turkes.
• * 1.551

  The Emperors promises to the Venetians.
• * 1.552

  VVhat moo•…•…d the Emperor to send his Am∣bassador to the French King.
• * 1.553

  The King of England, is chosen Vmpier and mediator betwixt migh∣ty Princes.
• * 1.554

  The French King and the King of En∣gland talke to∣gether
• * 1.555

  The Uenetian comon wealth, doe •…•…sten a d•…•…ghter of the French Kings.
• * 1.556

  VVhy the King delayed to conclude the league.
• * 1.557

  The Popes new 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.558

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉▪
• * 1.559

  The Pope and the E•…•…peror make 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 against the French King.
• * 1.560

  VVhat the Popes and Em∣peros deseignes were.
• * 1.561

  The Lord of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…∣prise of the •…•…andetti of Mi•…•…an.
• * 1.562

  The Pope is is 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with the Lord L'•…•…scut his pursute.
• * 1.563

  The Venetians seeke to appease the Popes in∣dignation a∣gainst the French.
• * 1.564

  The conditions of the agree∣ment betwixt the Pope and the Emperor.
• * 1.565

  The Popes and •…•…emperors for∣•…•…s need•…•… to march, if their secret intelli∣gences should faile.
• * 1.566

  The Venetian army redy to march.
• * 1.567

  The Emperor 〈◊〉〈◊〉 passage for his soldiers
• * 1.568

  Ieronimo Pe∣sare Prouida∣tor of all the forts on the firme land.
• * 1.569

  In what man∣ner the Vene∣tians did re∣leeue the Start of Milan.
• * 1.570

  The Lord of Lautrec ho∣peth for aide.
• * 1.571

  The Imperials beseege Parma.
• * 1.572

  The Lord of Lautrec suc∣coreth Parmai Prospero Co∣lonna raiseth his campe from before Parma.
• * 1.573

  The Pope sus∣pecteth the Imperials.
• * 1.574

  The Emperor 〈◊〉〈◊〉 destasted with the Popes sus∣pition.
• * 1.575

  The Emperour by his Ambas∣sador seeketh to draw the Venetians to his side.
• * 1.576

  The army of the league marcheth di∣rectly to Mi∣lan.
• * 1.577

  The enemies passe ouer the riuer Adda without any impediment.
• * 1.578

  The Swisses leaue the French campe for want of pay.
• * 1.579

  Leutrec forti∣fieth Milan.
• * 1.580

  Prospero Co∣lonna is with∣in foure miles of Milan.
• * 1.581

  The traitors in milan giue ad∣uertizement to Prospero Co∣lonna.
• * 1.582

  The enemies being come to Milan win the Roman Gate •…•…d the suburb.
• * 1.583

  Triuulcio ta∣ken prisoner by the Imperi∣als.
• * 1.584

  Lautrec veti∣reth with his Cauallery to Coma.
• * 1.585

  Moscaron cap∣taine of the castle of Mi∣lan.
• * 1.586

  Milan is sack•…•… ten whole daies together.
• * 1.587

  The Swisses retire home in∣to their coun∣try.
• * 1.588

  Coma taken.
• * 1.589

  The Imperials breake the De∣cree.
• * 1.590

  Lautrecs de∣termination.
• * 1.591

  The Venetians disswade Lau∣trec from his resolution.
• * 1.592

  Pope Leo his sodaine death.
• * 1.593

  The Cardinall of Medicis af∣ter the Popes death retireth to Rome.
• * 1.594

  The Venetians leauy forces to march into the Dutchy of Milan.
• * 1.595

  Colonna forti∣fieth Milan.
• * 1.596

  The French & Venetian ar∣my on the Cremonois.
• * 1.597

  Great num∣bers of Swisses in the French campe.
• * 1.598

  The French campe before Milan.
• * 1.599

  VVhat hind∣red the Lord of Lautrec from assailing Milan.
• * 1.600

  VVith what seruensie the people of Mi∣lan endured the discommo∣dity of the seege.
• * 1.601

  The Duke of Milan com∣meth to Pauia with six thou∣sand Lanse∣quenets.
• * 1.602

  The French take Nouara.
• * 1.603

  Sforza arriu∣eth at Milan.
• * 1.604

  Pauia beseeg∣ed by Lautrec.
• * 1.605

  The campe dislodgeth from before Pauia.
• * 1.606

  The Emperors campe lodgeth at Bicoca.
• * 1.607

  Lautrec send∣eth to discouer the enemies campe.
• * 1.608

  In what or∣der the French did assaile the enemies.
• * 1.609

  Pollicy of the Lord of Lau∣trec.
• * 1.610

  The Swisses boldnesse in as∣s•…•…yling their enemies.
• * 1.611

  The battaile of Bicoca.
• * 1.612

  The Swisses re∣tire to Monce.
• * 1.613

  The Swisses re∣turne home into their country.
• * 1.614

  The enemies surprize Lau∣da.
• * 1.615

  Cremona is yeelded to the enemies.
• * 1.616

  The Emperor sicketh the friendship & alliance of the Uenetians.
• * 1.617

  The Emperor and the King of England talke together.
• * 1.618

  A league be∣twixt the Em∣peror & the King of England.
• * 1.619

  The Ambassa∣dors of the Emperor and the King of England come to Venice.
• * 1.620

  The Venetians great discreti∣on in their resolution.
• * 1.621

  An. 1522.
• * 1.622

  Rhodes taken by Soliman.
• * 1.623

  The Creation of Pope Adrian the sixt.
• * 1.624

  The Venetians Ambassage to the Pope.
• * 1.625

  The Pope is zealous of an vniuersall peace.
• * 1.626

  League be∣twixt the Pope, the Em∣peror, the Ve∣netians, the Duke of Mi∣lan, and the Florentines.
• * 1.627

  Different opi∣nions in the Senate concer∣ning their al∣liance with the Emperor.
• * 1.628

  The protestati∣on of the Em∣peror and King of Englands Ambassadors in Senate.
• * 1.629

  The articles of the alliance made betwixt the Emperor, Francis Sforza and the Vene∣tians.
• * 1.630

  The Venetians send Ambassa∣dors to the Emperor to reioyce with him for the new league.
• * 1.631

  The Duke of Vrbin General to the Vene∣tians.
• * 1.632

  The Duke of Bourbon for∣saketh the French Kings party.
• * 1.633

  Nouara and Uigeua yeeld to the French.
• * 1.634

  VVhat Pro∣spero Colonna did, vpon re∣port of the ar∣riuall of the French.
• * 1.635

  The Venetians preparations against the French.
• * 1.636

  The French passe the Thesin without any let.
• * 1.637

  The error of the French.
• * 1.638

  The French ly∣ing before M•…•… lan do •…•…on a sodoine raise their Camp.
• * 1.639

  They take Monce.
• * 1.640

  The Uenetians suspect the mo∣tion of peace betwixt the Emperor and the •…•…rench King.
• * 1.641

  The Duke of Vrbins difficul∣ty to execute the Senates command.
• * 1.642

  The Venetians make new le∣uies of horse and •…•…oot.
• * 1.643

  Pope Adrian his death.
• * 1.644

  The creation of Pope Cle∣ment the se∣•…•…enth.
• * 1.645

  The Venetians send Ambassa∣dors to the new Pope.
• * 1.646

  An. 1523.
• * 1.647

  The Imperials determine to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.648

  The Imperials pursued the French.
• * 1.649

  The Imperials take Garlas.
• * 1.650

  VVhy the Gri∣sons would not leaue their houses.
• * 1.651

  The Venetians stand in feare of Soliman.
• * 1.652

  Cause of the French King•…•… discontent with the Em∣perour.
• * 1.653

  VVhy the French King was displeased with the Vene∣tians.
• * 1.654

  The Popes re∣monstrances to the Venetians
• * 1.655

  VVhervnto the Pope •…•…∣ded.
• * 1.656

  The French come to 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.657

  The Imperiall retire to Son∣cina and Lau∣da.
• * 1.658

  The Duke of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 en∣uades Naples.
• * 1.659

  Pauia besieged by the French King.
• * 1.660

  The Venetians feare.
• * 1.661

  The Pope 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a mediator betwixt the Emperor and the French. King.
• * 1.662

  Conditions of peace propoun∣ded by the Pope
• * 1.663

  The Venetians sought to, by both sides
• * 1.664

  VVhat moued the Senate to∣ally themselues with the French.
• * 1.665

  An. 1525.
• * 1.666

  The Senates answer to the Imperialls.
• * 1.667

  Sundry opini∣ons on the pub∣lication of the league.
• * 1.668

  The Pope pro∣testeth against the Emperor and the King, if they agree not.
• * 1.669

  The Imperialls suspect the Pope.
• * 1.670

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Pescara causeth the Imperiall arm•…•… to tarry in Lumbardy.
• * 1.671

  The Pope and the Venetians feare least the King should come to hat∣saile.
• * 1.672

  VVhat caused the Imperials to come into the field.
• * 1.673

  The King would by 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 dis∣camp from before Pauia.
• * 1.674

  The Imperials assaile the kings Camp.
• * 1.675

  The King is taken by the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and the •…•…rmy is 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.676

  The Venetians discourse on the Kings tak∣ing.
• * 1.677

  The Popes re∣solution after the defeate of the French.
• * 1.678

  The Venetians seeke to alter the Popes opi∣nion.
• * 1.679

  The Uenetians send Ambassa∣dors to the Emperor.
• * 1.680

  The Emperors speech and gesture vpon the newes of the victory.
• * 1.681

  The Emperor sendeth an Ambassador to the Pope.
• * 1.682

  The sorrow of all France for the Kings cap∣tiuity and the Councels reso∣lution.
• * 1.683

  The Senates 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the French Com∣missioner.
• * 1.684

  Accord be∣twixt the Pope and 〈◊〉〈◊〉▪
• * 1.685

  French Agents sent to Venice to treat o•…•… an agreement.
• * 1.686

  The Marquis of Pescara his audations de∣mand to Duke 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.687

  Accord be∣twixt the Pope and the Venetians.
• * 1.688

  The articles of the agreement.
• * 1.689

  The king of Englands cour∣tezie towards the French King.
• * 1.690

  The Venetians 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.691

  An. 1526.
• * 1.692

  Agreement be∣twixt the Em∣peror and the 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.693

  The King com∣plaineth of the Emperor.
• * 1.694

  The King in∣tendeth to take Armes against the Emperor.
• * 1.695

  The Venetians make meanes to draw the King of Eng∣land into the league.
• * 1.696

  The Venetian Ambassadors remonstrance to the Pope.
• * 1.697

  The Pope and Venetians an∣swer•…•… Don Hugo, negocia∣ting for the Emperor.
• * 1.698

  The children of France are giuen in •…•…∣stage for the King their Father.
• * 1.699

  An. 1526. The league concluded at Coignac.
• * 1.700

  The Confede∣rates send Commissioners to the King of England.
• * 1.701

  The King of Englands an∣swer.
• * 1.702

  The nomber of the Army of the League.
• * 1.703

  Lauda is taken ly the Confede∣ates.
• * 1.704

  The two Ar∣mies being ioy∣ded together m•…•…ch to Mi∣lan.
• * 1.705

  The Duke of Bourbon com∣meth to Milan
• * 1.706

  The army of the league re∣tireth from be∣fore Milan.
• * 1.707

  The Pope is discontented.
• * 1.708

  Pedro of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 generall of the naual army
• * 1.709

  The endfedrats suspect the King.
• * 1.710

  The French Kings excuses.
• * 1.711

  The Lord of Langi commeth to Venice and Rome from the King.
• * 1.712

  The Senats an∣swere to the Lord of Langi.
• * 1.713

  The offer of the Pope and Ve∣netians to the King.
• * 1.714

  The Confede∣rates nauall army not farr•…•… from Genoa.
• * 1.715

  Doria is sus∣pected to re∣leeue Genoa
• * 1.716

  The fortificati∣ons of Genoa.
• * 1.717

  The Genowais are brauely repulsed in their sally.
• * 1.718

  Francis S•…•…orza yeeldeth the Castle of Milan to the Imperi∣•…•…lls.
• * 1.719

  Francis Sforza ratifieth the league.
• * 1.720

  Malatesta Bail∣lone before▪ Cremona for the league.
• * 1.721

  The Duke of Vrbin bringeth supplis to the seege of Cremo∣na.
• * 1.722

  The Capitula∣tion of the Cit∣ty of Cremona.
• * 1.723

  The Colonesie enter Rome vi∣olent•…•…y.
• * 1.724

  The Popes a∣greement with the Colonesi.
• * 1.725

  The Popes doubt concer∣ning the agree∣ment.
• * 1.726

  The Venetians answer to the Pope inuiting them to an a∣greement with the Emperor.
• * 1.727

  The King of England offe∣reth the Pope a great summ•…•… of money.
• * 1.728

  The chiefe ar∣ticles of the treaty.
• * 1.729

  The Emperors preparations by sea & land.
• * 1.730

  George Frond∣sperg leaui∣eth great num∣bers of Lanse∣quenets in the Emperors be∣halfe.
• * 1.731

  The confede∣rates pro•…•…ide to resist the Emperor.
• * 1.732

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 c•…•…me into Italy.
• * 1.733

  Iohn de Medi∣cis a great captaine.
• * 1.734

  The Popes feare.
• * 1.735

  The Marquis of Salusses wi•…•…h •…•…is forces pass•…•…th the Po.
• * 1.736

  Foscare his exhortation to the Floren∣tin•…•…s.
• * 1.737

  The Floren∣tines answere and resolution.
• * 1.738

  Nauar his couragious proposition.
• * 1.739

  The Imperiall fleet in beaten by the confe∣der•…•…tes.
• * 1.740

  The Imperiall fleet scattered by tempest.
• * 1.741

  The Pope m•…•…ke •…•…th meanes to the viceroy for an agree∣ment.
• * 1.742

  The French King se•…•…eth Rance de Cera into Italy.
• * 1.743

  Frossolana is beseeged by the Vicer•…•…y.
• * 1.744

  The Count Vaudemont commeth to the army.
• * 1.745

  Aquila taken b•…•… Rance de Cera.
• * 1.746

  The consede∣rates take the Burr•…•…w of t sea.
• * 1.747

  The confede∣rates take di∣uers places on the sea coast.
• * 1.748

  The consede∣rates consult about the s•…•…ege of Naples.
• * 1.749

  An Herald is sent to summon Naples.
• * 1.750

  Hugo de Mon∣cada sallieth forth vpon the conf•…•…derates.
• * 1.751

  The great dis∣order of the army of the league.
• * 1.752

  VVhat hindred the taking of Naples.
• * 1.753

  The Duke of Bourbon •…•…archeth to the field in dis∣•…•…ight of all difficulties.
• * 1.754

  VVhat moo∣ued the Pope to s•…•…ke an a∣greement with the viceroy.
• * 1.755

  The Pope trust∣eth to much to the viceroy
• * 1.756

  The Pope ac∣cordeth with the viceroy.
• * 1.757

  The Popes •…•…r∣ror in disarm∣•…•…ng himselfe.
• * 1.758

  The Venetians assurance to the King.
• * 1.759

  The Venetians answere to the King concer∣ning the renu∣ing of the wars of Naples.
• * 1.760

  Cottignola ta∣k•…•…n by the Duke of Bour∣bon.
• * 1.761

  The consede∣rates army doth still sol∣low the Imp•…•…∣rials.
• * 1.762

  The Pope a•…•…∣knowledgeth his error and imploreth▪ the consederates •…•…ide.
• * 1.763

  The two ar∣mies at one time in •…•…∣ny.
• * 1.764

  Dominico Ve∣niero put to his tryall.
• * 1.765

  VVhat caused the Duke of Bourbon to to march to Rome.
• * 1.766

  The Duke of Bourbons great speed in his march to Rome.
• * 1.767

  The Duke of Bourbon g•…•…ueth an assault to the subu•…•…bs of Rome.
• * 1.768

  The death of the Duke of Bourbon.
• * 1.769

  The Pope with diuers Cardi∣nals retiret•…•… to the Castle Saint Angelo.
• * 1.770

  Dominico Ve∣niero put to his tryall.
• * 1.771

  VVhat caused the Duke of Bourbon to to march to Rome.
• * 1.772

  The Duke of Bourbons great speed in his march to Rome.
• * 1.773

  The Duke of Bourbongiueth an assault to the suburbs of Rome.
• * 1.774

  The death of the Duke of Bourbon.
• * 1.775

  The Pope with diuers Cardi∣nals retireth to the Castle Saint Angelo.
• * 1.776

  The Imprials great cruelty in Rome.
• * 1.777

  The Senate af∣ter the taking of Rome, de∣termine to op∣pose themselues against the Emperor.
• * 1.778

  The King of France and England re∣solue to free the Pope.
• * 1.779

  The Cardinals meet at Bolog∣nia to treat of the Popes deli∣uery.
• * 1.780

  The Emperors dissimulation concerning the Popes taking.
• * 1.781

  The Venetians preparations by Sea & land
• * 1.782

  The Venetians place a Garri∣son in Rauenna for the behoof of the Sea of Rome.
• * 1.783

  The Duke of Vrbin taketh Perusa.
• * 1.784

  The Duke of Vrbins prepo∣sition.
• * 1.785

  Vittury is contrary to the Duke of Vrbin
• * 1.786

  VVhat great forces they were to haue to free the Pope from prison.
• * 1.787

  Vitturi called to account for being contrary to the Popes deliuery.
• * 1.788

  The kings great preparations to send into Italy.
• * 1.789

  Andre Doria in the Kings seruice.
• * 1.790

  The number of the Venetians army.
• * 1.791

  The Pope in∣clineth to a∣greement.
• * 1.792

  Articles of a∣greement be∣twixt the Pope and Em∣peror.
• * 1.793

  How the Ve∣netians beha∣ued themselues vpon this a∣greement.
• * 1.794

  Sondry opini∣ons in the Con∣federats army about the Popes deliueryl
• * 1.795

  Lautrec ente reth the Dut∣chy of M •…•…lan∣with great for ces.
• * 1.796

  Bosco and A∣lexandria are taken by Lau∣trec.
• * 1.797

  Strise betwixt the confederats concerning the taking of Alex∣andria.
• * 1.798

  The Venetians oppose them∣selues against the Lord Lau∣trecs propositi∣on to goe to Rome and to leaue the State of Milan.
• * 1.799

  Pauia is taken by Lautrec.
• * 1.800

  Genoa reduced vnder the Kings obedie∣ence.
• * 1.801

  The French and Uenetian fleet are scate∣red by tempest.
• * 1.802

  The Turke be ing assailed by Marcello had his speedy re∣uenge.
• * 1.803

  Marcello dieth by the way for greefe.
• * 1.804

  Solimans libe∣rality to the Venetians
• * 1.805

  Lautrec leueth Milan and marcheth to∣wards Rome.
• * 1.806

  VVhat mooued the Lord Lau∣trec to change his determina∣tion.
• * 1.807

  The Venetians do suspect the Duke of Vrbin
• * 1.808

  VVhat moued the Venetians to eat the chardge of the wavve in Lom∣bardy.
• * 1.809

  A cotorable excuse of the King of Eng∣land to the Ve∣netians request.
• * 1.810

  The French king and Vene∣tians demands
• * 1.811

  VVhat was the Emperors mea∣ning concer∣ning peace.
• * 1.812

  An accord in de with the Duke of Fer∣rara.
• * 1.813

  The marquis of Mantua, ioyne•…•… to the league.
• * 1.814

  The Emperor commaedeth that the Pope should be enlar∣ged.
• * 1.815

  The Pope com∣plaineth of the imperialls dea∣lings.
• * 1.816

  The Venetians Ambassad to the Pope.
• * 1.817

  The French Kings Am∣bassador to the Pope.
• * 1.818

  The Popes ex∣cuse because he would not enter into any new consedera cy.
• * 1.819

  VVhat the Popes Intenti∣on was.
• * 1.820

  Lautrec marcheth to∣wards Na∣ples.
• * 1.821

  The number of the Imperial army.
• * 1.822

  The Popes de∣mands to the Venetians.
• * 1.823

  The Popes ex∣cuses to the French King.
• * 1.824

  Sundry opini∣ons of the Se∣nate concer∣ning the Popes demand.
• * 1.825

  The Senates answere to the Pope.
• * 1.826

  Sundry opini∣ons of the Im∣perial cap∣taines.
• * 1.827

  The Imperials embrace the opinion of Alarcon.
• * 1.828

  Lautrec resol∣ueth to fight with the ene∣my.
• * 1.829

  Lautrec defi∣•…•…th and pro∣uoketh the Imperial ar∣my to battaile.
• * 1.830

  The Imperials retire towards Naples.
• * 1.831

  The confede∣rates take Melfi.
• * 1.832

  Ascoli, Barlet∣ta, Trani, and diuers •…•…ther tow•…•…es, yeeld to the confede∣rates.
• * 1.833

  Lautrec marcheth with his army to∣wards Na∣ples.
• * 1.834

  Lautrec en∣campeth with∣in two miles of Naples.
• * 1.835

  Six Cities ap∣pointed to the Venetians by the agreement of the league.
• * 1.836

  Mon•…•…pli and Trani yeelded to the Ueneti∣ans.
• * 1.837

  The Duke of Brunswich commeth into Italy with great •…•…orces.
• * 1.838

  A vaine and rediculous challenge.
• * 1.839

  The Venetia•…•… preparations against the Duke of Bruns∣wich.
• * 1.840

  The Duke of Brunswich be∣ing ioyned with Antonio de Leua doth come and be∣seege Laud•…•…
• * 1.841

  Brunswich re∣turneth into Germany.
• * 1.842

  Pozzuolo ta∣ken•…•…y Lautrec.
• * 1.843

  An enterprize of the Spani∣ards against the Gallies of Phi∣lippin Doria.
• * 1.844

  A policy of the enemies.
• * 1.845

  The Imperials •…•…e 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at sea.
• * 1.846

  The number of the dead, & of the priso∣ners.
• * 1.847

  The great commodity which the ar∣riuall of the Generall of the Venetian Gal∣leys brought to the confede∣rates.
• * 1.848

  The Lord of Barbezieu•…•… commeth to Sauona.
• * 1.849

  A fierce in∣counter of those of •…•…he league and th•…•… Imperialls.
• * 1.850

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the A•…•…my of the league be∣fore Naples.
• * 1.851

  The great sor•…•…w of the Lord Lautrec.
• * 1.852

  The Lord Lautrecs na∣ture.
• * 1.853

  Gre•…•…t sicknes in the French Campe.
• * 1.854

  André Doria 〈◊〉〈◊〉 from the Kings seruice.
• * 1.855

  The cause of André Doria 〈◊〉〈◊〉 reuolt.
• * 1.856

  The Popes an∣swer to the King, concer∣ning the enter∣tainment of Andrew Doria
• * 1.857

  Articles •…•…f∣greement be∣twixt the Em∣peror, and Do∣ria.
• * 1.858

  The great dis∣comodity which the re∣uolt of Doria did procure.
• * 1.859

  The wants of the army be∣so•…•…e Naples.
• * 1.860

  Disorders 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the army
• * 1.861

  The Lord Lau∣trec greeuously sick.
• * 1.862

  The Lord Lautrecs death.
• * 1.863

  The Marquis o•…•… Sa•…•…usses Ge∣nerall •…•…f the Army aft•…•…r Lantrecs death
• * 1.864

  The Marquis with the Ar∣my retireth to 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.865

  The Capitula∣tion about the y•…•…elding of Auers•…•…
• * 1.866

  Geno•…•… by meanes of Andrè Doria 〈◊〉〈◊〉 from the King to the •…•…peror.
• * 1.867

  The Venetians great prepara∣tions.
• * 1.868

  The number of the Venetians sorces.
• * 1.869

  The Duke of Vrbins deter∣mination.
• * 1.870

  The propositi∣on of the co•…•…nt Saint Paul.
• * 1.871

  The enterprise of Milan broken.
• * 1.872

  The Consede∣rates besiege Pauia.
• * 1.873

  The Conse•…•…e∣rates take Pauia.
• * 1.874

  Nouara and diuerse other townes yeeld to the Conse∣derates.
• * 1.875

  The Lord Saint Paul lea∣ueth Milan to go to the releef of Genoa.
• * 1.876

  The lord S•…•… Paul his ae∣seignes to re lee•…•… Genoa proouet•…•… vaine
• * 1.877

  Castle of Geno∣a raced by the People.
• * 1.878

  The Genowaies fill the Hauen of Sauona with grauell.
• * 1.879

  The Veneti•…•… forces 〈◊〉〈◊〉 diminis•…•…d.
• * 1.880

  The Venetians keepe the c•…•…∣ties in Pagl•…•…a.
• * 1.881

  The French Kings instance to the Vene•…•…i∣ans in the Popes behalse.
• * 1.882

  The Venetians answer to the King•…•… Ambas∣sad•…•…r.
• * 1.883

  The V•…•…counts offers to the Pope.
• * 1.884

  The Uenetia•…•… offers to the Pope, so that peace might be procured.
• * 1.885

  S•…•…cret practi∣ses betwixt the King and the Venetians.
• * 1.886

  The Emperor•…•… great prepara∣tions to co•…•…e into Italy.
• * 1.887

  The Popes intention.
• * 1.888

  The Uenetians intention.
• * 1.889

  The Venetians great prepara∣tio•…•… by sea and 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.890

  The Venetians lo•…•…e to the French and the Duke of Milan.
• * 1.891

  The •…•…esolution of the assembly held a•…•… Venice by the Confe∣derat•…•….
• * 1.892

  The King de∣termineth to make warre i•…•… Spaine.
• * 1.893

  The resolution of the Veneti∣an councel vp∣on the Kings comming into Italy.
• * 1.894

  The Kings an∣swer and de∣termination.
• * 1.895

  The Venetians care to p•…•…∣serue the pla∣ce•…•… which they held in Puglia.
• * 1.896

  The Lord Chastillon commeth to Venice and makes a shew that hee would g•…•… into Pug∣lia.
• * 1.897

  The Sena•…•…s susp•…•…tion •…•…∣cerning the Kings com∣ming.
• * 1.898

  The Venetians solici•…•…e the King to come into Italy.
• * 1.899

  The bandetti of Naples come into the field.
• * 1.900

  Aquila is re∣couer•…•…d of the Imperials.
• * 1.901

  Martrica ta∣ken by them.
• * 1.902

  Treason disco∣uered in Bar∣letta.
• * 1.903

  Monopoli be∣seeged b•…•… the Marqit of Guasto.
• * 1.904

  The Ma•…•…quis giueth an as∣sault •…•…o 〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…i∣ty to his lesse.
• * 1.905

  The Marquis re•…•…ireth from before Mono∣poli.
• * 1.906

  The city of Brundusium yeeldeth to the Venetians.
• * 1.907

  The Prince of Orange de•…•…er∣mineth to goe to Pe•…•…sua.
• * 1.908

  The Duke of Vrbin runneth to the defense of his owne State.
• * 1.909

  The Prince of Orange chang∣eth his deter∣mination.
• * 1.910

  The Duke of Vrbin being come backe to the army deter∣mineth to be∣seege Milan.
• * 1.911

  Enteruiew of the French & Venet•…•…an ar∣mies.
• * 1.912

  The two ar∣mies distrust one an other.
• * 1.913

  The Lord S. Paul resolue•…•… to execute the en•…•…erprise of Genoa.
• * 1.914

  Antonio de Leua assaileth the Lord Saint Paul.
• * 1.915

  The number of the Venetian army.
• * 1.916

  Ant•…•…io de Leua follow∣•…•…th the Duk•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Vrbin in his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Cassa•…•….
• * 1.917

  Part of the enemies are de∣feated by the Duke of Vrbin.
• * 1.918

  G•…•…eat valor of a woman in mans attire.
• * 1.919

  The Duke of Vrbîns enter∣prize to defeate the enemie.
• * 1.920

  The enimes 〈◊〉〈◊〉 beaten by the Duke of Vrbi•…•….
• * 1.921

  The doubts and feare of Antonio de Leua.
• * 1.922

  Antonio de Leua retire•…•…h 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Milan.
• * 1.923

  The report of the Lanceque∣n•…•…ts comming causeth the Venetian Ar∣my to retire to the Citties.
• * 1.924

  The Citty of Cambra•…•… cho∣sen for the •…•…rea∣ty o•…•… peace.
• * 1.925

  The Venetian Senate are male content with the Fr•…•…ch King.
• * 1.926

  The Venetians giue author•…•…ty to their Ambas∣sadors to be present at the treaty of Cam∣bray.
• * 1.927

  The Uenetians meaning con∣cerning the Articles of peace.
• * 1.928

  The Venetians suspect the Kings carriage
• * 1.929

  Triuulcio his request to the Venetians from the King.
• * 1.930

  The Venetians answers to Tri∣uulcio.
• * 1.931

  The Venetians recourse to the King of Eng∣land.
• * 1.932

  The Emperor arriuall an Genoa.
• * 1.933

  Nom•…•…er of the Emperors 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in Italy
• * 1.934

  Italy amazed at the Emperor crmming.
• * 1.935

  Florentines send Am•…•…assa∣dors to the Emperor.
• * 1.936

  VVhat k•…•…pt the Venetians from sending Ambassad•…•…s to the Emperor
• * 1.937

  Great prepara∣ti•…•…ns of the Venetians.
• * 1.938

  The Uenetians exhortation to the consederats
• * 1.939

  The Venetians offers to the Duke o•…•… Fer∣rara.
• * 1.940

  Publicatio•…•… of the treaty of Camb•…•…ay.
• * 1.941

  The Kings re∣quest to the Ve∣netians.
• * 1.942

  The Venetians answer to the King.
• * 1.943

  The King en∣treateth the Emperor to make an accord with the Ve∣netians.
• * 1.944

  Soliman taketh 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.945

  The Hereticks begin to stirre in Germany.
• * 1.946

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in desirous of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 accord with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Venetians
• * 1.947

  The Venetian •…•…nswere to those that spa•…•… to them o•…•… Peace with the Empe•…•…or.
• * 1.948

  Expectation of the enteruiew at Bolognia.
• * 1.949

  Sundry opini∣ons in the Se∣nate concer∣ning the moti∣on o•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with the Em∣peror.
• * 1.950

  A Discourse made in Se∣nate concer∣ning peace with the Em∣peror.
• * 1.951

  A Discourse in Senate contrary to the •…•…ormer.
• * 1.952

  The Senat•…•…s resolution.
• * 1.953

  The Pope and the Emp•…•…ror come to Bo∣lognia.
• * 1.954

  The Imperials d•…•…mand con∣cerning the accord for Milan.
• * 1.955

  The Duke of Milans great humility to the Emperor.
• * 1.956

  The Articles of peace be∣twixt the Em∣peror and the V•…•…netians.
• * 1.957

  The Floren∣tines great trouble.
• * 1.958

  VVhat moued the Emperor to en•…•…orcethe Flo∣ren•…•…ines to o∣bey the Pope.
• * 1.959

  Soliman restor∣eth Iohn King of Hungary to his Kingdome.
• * 1.960

  The Venetian•…•… send Ambassa∣dors to the Pope and the Emperor.
• * 1.961

  The Ambassa∣dors discharge their duties to the Princes.
• * 1.962

  The Emperor is crowned at Bolognia.
• * 1.963

  The Emperors gui•…•…t to the Venetian Am∣bassadors brought into the publike treasury.
• * 1.964

  The M•…•…rqui∣sate of Mant•…•…a is erected into a Dutchy.
• * 1.965

  The great en∣tertainment giuen to the Emperor on the Venetian 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.966

  Soliman dis∣tast•…•…d of the Venetians by reason of a re∣port that was cu•…•…rant in Constantinople.
• * 1.967

  The Venetians s•…•…nd an Am∣bassage to Soli∣man.
• * 1.968

  So•…•…iman 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Venetians.
• * 1.969

  The circumci∣sion of Soli∣mans children.
• * 1.970

  The incursions of the Knights of Malta a∣gainst the Turkes.
• * 1.971

  Solimans pur∣pose to enrich Constantinople
• * 1.972

  The Venetians pursuites to di∣uert Solimans deseignes.
• * 1.973

  The Uenetians forbid the Knights of Malta to come no more vpon their Gulph.
• * 1.974

  The Turkes co•…•…plaints a∣gainst the Venetians.
• * 1.975

  The Almains desire to hau•…•… a General Councell.
• * 1.976

  The Pope ex∣cuses concer∣ning the con∣uocation of a councell.
• * 1.977

  The Pope hath recourse to the Venetians, a∣gainst the in∣stances of the Germains.
• * 1.978

  The Venetians answer to the Pope.
• * 1.979

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.980

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.981

  The Castle of Milan and the city of Coma 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Sforza.
• * 1.982

  Iohn Pisani extraordinary Ambassador into France.
• * 1.983

  The Venetians 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the no∣mination of Bishopricks vn∣der their 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.984

  Solimans de∣seigne against the Christians.
• * 1.985

  The Venetians craue the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 leauied vpon the Cler∣gie to helpe them against the Turkes.
• * 1.986

  The Venetians preparations to stand vpon their gard.
• * 1.987

  The Venetians by chasing a∣way the Pirats make the s•…•…as safe.
• * 1.988

  The King of Hungary seck∣eth peace of the Emperor and of Ferdi∣nand.
• * 1.989

  The Venetians doe in vaine solicite the Pope for the King of Hun∣gary.
• * 1.990

  The Venetians answer to the Popes demand.
• * 1.991

  Ferdinands de∣seignes against the Turkes.
• * 1.992

  The Uenetians exhort Ferdi∣nand to peace.
• * 1.993

  VVhat moued the Kings of France and England to make warre on the Emperour.
• * 1.994

  1532.
• * 1.995

  The number of the Turkish army.
• * 1.996

  Soliman with his army com∣meth into Hungary.
• * 1.997

  The Emperor with a mighty army encamp∣eth before Vienna.
• * 1.998

  Solimans re∣treate.
• * 1.999

  The Emperors retreate.
• * 1.1000

  The Emperors and Solimans nauall Armi•…•…▪
• * 1.1001

  Doria his sub∣tile meaning.
• * 1.1002

  The Senates answer to the Emperors Am∣bassador.
• * 1.1003

  The retreate of the Turk•…•…sh Army▪
• * 1.1004

  Coron and Pa∣tras, taken by Doria.
• * 1.1005

  The Duke of Ferrara reco∣uereth Mode na and Regio by the Empe∣rors sentence.
• * 1.1006

  The Emperor is againe 〈◊〉〈◊〉 rous to talk with the Pope •…•…t Bolognia.
• * 1.1007

  What was the cause of the en∣teruiew.
• * 1.1008

  The Emperour returneth into Italy.
• * 1.1009

  The Venetians are requested to consent to the renuing of the league.
• * 1.1010

  The Venetians answer con∣cerning the renuing of the league.
• * 1.1011

  A new league betwixt the Pope, Emperor and all the Italian Poten∣tates (the Ve∣netians excep∣ted).
• * 1.1012

  Vmpiers ap∣pointed wi•…•…h a third man, to end the con∣trouersie be∣twixt Ferdi∣nand an•…•… the Venetians.
• * 1.1013

  The assembly is bro•…•…n vp with∣out an•…•… conclu∣tion.
• * 1.1014

  The Venetians make prepara∣tions for their safety.
• * 1.1015

  Francesco D•…•… duo is taken by Pirats.
• * 1.1016

  S•…•…dry opini ons in •…•…he Se∣nate concerning the reuenge of that wrong.
• * 1.1017

  Dandulo is ba∣nishe•…•… at his re∣turne to Ue∣nice.
• * 1.1018

  A fight at Sea betwixt the Venetians and Turkes.
• * 1.1019

  The Venetians victory at Sea against the Moore o•…•… A∣lexandria who was taken
• * 1.1020

  The wisely re∣medy the error commited by night.
• * 1.1021

  The Venetian ships are sta•…•…ed by the Turkish offic•…•…rs.
• * 1.1022

  Sundry opini∣ons in the Se∣nate conc•…•…r∣ning Canalis 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1023

  Soliman ac∣cepteth o•…•… the Venetians. excuses.
• * 1.1024

  The Senate acknowledge Cana•…•… seruice by recomp•…•…n∣sing his sonn•…•….
• * 1.1025

  Cariadi•…•…e Bar∣barr•…•…ssa his gre•…•… experi∣ence at sea.
• * 1.1026

  The Pope ac∣quainteth the Ve•…•…etians with all hi•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1027

  The Popes pre∣te•…•… ces to coul∣lor 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ioy con∣c•…•…iued by that m•…•…riage.
• * 1.1028

  Great troubles in Germany concerning the Duke of VVittemberg.
• * 1.1029

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 great preparations for 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1030

  Great 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at on time in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 p•…•…aces.
• * 1.1031

  The Senates holy resolution
• * 1.1032

  The Veneti•…•… pre parations for their safe ty.
• * 1.1033

  The Turke•…•… reco•…•…r 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1034

  T•…•…e Turkish fleet s•…•…oureth the Sea coast of Calabria.
• * 1.1035

  Cariadine tak∣eth Thuni•…•….
• * 1.1036

  Ph•…•…lippo Maz∣zo a Knight o•…•… Malta looseth •…•…is head for •…•…is many rob∣beries.
• * 1.1037

  The death of Pope Clement the seuenth.
• * 1.1038

  T•…•…e Cr•…•…ation of Pope Paul t•…•…e third.
• * 1.1039

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sendeth •…•…ight 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the Pope.
• * 1.1040

  The Emperor seeketh to t•…•…e Venetians.
• * 1.1041

  The Venetians answer to the Emp•…•…ror.
• * 1.1042

  The Pope tak∣•…•…th Arm•…•…s •…•…or the Dutchy of 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1043

  The Venetians seek to app•…•…ase the strise be∣twixt the Pope and the duke o•…•… V•…•…bin.
• * 1.1044

  The Emperor •…•…or the Vene∣tians sake doth maintaine the Duke of Vr∣•…•…ins cause.
• * 1.1045

  A new prac•…•…ise be•…•…wixt the Pop•…•… and the 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1046

  The Emperors preparations for 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1047

  Soliman ad∣ue•…•…tiseth the V•…•…netians of what he had done in Persia:
• * 1.1048

  The Emper•…•…rs great army for his voyage into Affr•…•…ck.
• * 1.1049

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 beso•…•…∣ged.
• * 1.1050

  Cariadi•…•…e 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1051

  The taking of Thunis and 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1052

  The Emperor retur•…•…eth to Naples.
• * 1.1053

  The death of Francis S•…•…orza Duke o•…•… Milan.
• * 1.1054

  T•…•…e Emperors 〈◊〉〈◊〉 an∣swer to the Venetians con∣ce•…•…ning the Stat•…•… of Mi∣l•…•…n.
• * 1.1055

  The Confede∣racy confirme•…•… betwixt the Emperor and▪ Venetians.
• * 1.1056

  The French Kings Ambas∣sade to the Ve∣netians concer∣ning the busi∣nesse of Milan▪
• * 1.1057

  The Venetians answere to the Ambassador.
• * 1.1058

  The Duke of Sauoy deniet•…•… the Kings pa•…•…∣sage.
• * 1.1059

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the Kings discon∣tent with the Duke of Sauoy.
• * 1.1060

  Th•…•… French take 〈◊〉〈◊〉, •…•…ossan and Pigne•…•…oll.
• * 1.1061

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 chalenget•…•… the Frenc•…•… King to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 fight.
• * 1.1062

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 to acco•…•…d t•…•…e Emp•…•…ror and t•…•…e Frenc•…•…▪
• * 1.1063

  The Emperor 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with b•…•…sarmy into Prouen•…•…e.
• * 1.1064

  The Kings en∣te•…•… prose vpon Genoa.
• * 1.1065

  The Emperor 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to re∣tire forth of Pro•…•…ence.
• * 1.1066

  The Senate•…•… answer to the Emperor.
• * 1.1067

  Antonio de 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Prou•…•…nce.
• * 1.1068

  The Emperor acquainteth the Venetians with that which he had treated with the King.
• * 1.1069

  The Venetians answer to the Ambassador.
• * 1.1070

  The •…•…ree chee•…•…e points with the Pope bandled with the Christian Princes.
• * 1.1071

  The King 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Am∣•…•… to 〈◊〉〈◊〉, •…•…o dra•…•… them fr•…•… the 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1072

  The King sen∣deth an Am∣bassador to Ve∣nice, to vs•…•… meanes to •…•…raw them from the Em∣peror.
• * 1.1073

  The King pur∣poseth to vse the Turke a∣gainst the Em∣peror.
• * 1.1074

  The m•…•…nnes which the French Am∣bassadors pro∣pounded to So∣liman agai•…•…st the Emperor.
• * 1.1075

  Aiax Bascha perswad•…•…th Soliman to make warre in Italy.
• * 1.1076

  Soliman con∣s•…•…eteth to make warre vpon the Emperor.
• * 1.1077

  Soliman ad∣uer•…•…seth the Venetian of his determina∣tion.
• * 1.1078

  The Venetian answere to So•…•… liman.
• * 1.1079

  VVrongs doue the Venetians in Solimans Dominions.
• * 1.1080

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ex•…•…uses.
• * 1.1081

  Sund•…•…y reports concerning the Turkish a•…•…my.
• * 1.1082

  The Veretians pr•…•… arat•…•…ns to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 vpon thei•…•… gu•…•…rd a∣gainst the Tu•…•…ke.
• * 1.1083

  The Senates carc•…•… •…•…rnish m•…•…anes •…•…or •…•…e the expenc•…•… o•…•… warre.
• * 1.1084

  Imperials aff•…•…aid o•…•… the Turki•…•…sh 〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.1085

  The King co∣meth to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to go into Ita∣ly.
• * 1.1086

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 forbid Doria to carry the Gal∣•…•…s o•…•…t o•…•… G•…•…∣noa.
• * 1.1087

  The vn•…•…rtaine cours•…•… of the Turkish fl•…•…et, doth put the Venetians in 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1088

  The Venetians remaine neu∣ters betwixt the Imperialls and the Turkes
• * 1.1089

  A second Ge∣nerall created at Venice.
• * 1.1090

  Iohn Vituri created s•…•…cond Generall.
• * 1.1091

  Nomber of the Venetian for∣ces at Sea.
• * 1.1092

  The French King sendeth Count Guy de Rangon to Ve∣nice.
• * 1.1093

  The effect of the Count Rangon •…•…it ora•…•…ion to the Senate.
• * 1.1094

  Propositions in the Senate •…•…or the answering o•…•… the Count Rangon.
• * 1.1095

  Antonio •…•…or∣nare repug•…•…th the sormer prop•…•…sition.
• * 1.1096

  Rangon it an∣swered accor∣ding to the o∣pinion of Cor∣nare.
• * 1.1097

  Three sundry accidents caused war be∣twixt Soliman and the Uene∣tians.
• * 1.1098

  Solimans dis∣content for the first accident.
• * 1.1099

  The second ac∣cident worse then the first.
• * 1.1100

  Doria his in∣cursions can∣seth the Turks to suspect the Uenetians.
• * 1.1101

  The winde carrieth Pesare with all the Venetian for∣ces neere to th•…•…se of the Turkes.
• * 1.1102

  The third acci∣dent occasioned by the taking of Solimans Gallies.
• * 1.1103

  The Venetian fleet vpon the coast of Pug∣lia.
• * 1.1104

  The confusion of the Veneti∣an army when it saw that of the Turkes to be nere them:
• * 1.1105

  The Venetian •…•…leet lo•…•…seth foure Gallies taken by the Turkes.
• * 1.1106

  Soliman resol∣ueth to make war on the Ve∣netians.
• * 1.1107

  Doria his poli∣cy to enforce the Venetians to ioyne with him.
• * 1.1108

  Canalis com∣manded by So∣liman •…•…o send to the Veneti∣an Senace.
• * 1.1109

  The Senates resolution vp∣on the Bailies eduertisement
• * 1.1110

  The Senates answer to the Baily.
• * 1.1111

  Soliman resol∣ueth to make war vpon the Venetians.
• * 1.1112

  The visier Basha his rea∣sons to diuert him from his resolution.
• * 1.1113

  The Venetians are imprisoned & their goods seized vpon o∣uer all the Turkish Em∣pire.
• * 1.1114

  Description of the Isle of Corfou.
• * 1.1115

  The number of souldiers and munition in the Island.
• * 1.1116

  The Senate determineth to fight with the enemy.
• * 1.1117

  The forces of the Imperials, and the Pope.
• * 1.1118

  The Venetians remonstrance to the Pope.
• * 1.1119

  The Popes an∣swer to the Venetian Am∣bassador.
• * 1.1120

  A league be∣twixt the Pope the Emperor and the Uene∣tiane against the Turke.
• * 1.1121

  The league is published at Rome, and at Venice.
• * 1.1122

  The Venetians preparations for the army.
• * 1.1123

  Doria delaies to ioyne with the Venetians.
• * 1.1124

  Doria his an∣swer and de∣parture to∣wards Genoa.
• * 1.1125

  How Dorias departure did trouble the Venetians.
• * 1.1126

  The Venetians constancy.
• * 1.1127

  The Visier Basha, coun∣celleth Soli∣man to raise his seege.
• * 1.1128

  Soliman dis lodgeth fr•…•… before Cor•…•…
• * 1.1129

  Soliman de mineth to a saile Naple in Romagn and Malu•…•…
• * 1.1130

  The discrip•…•… of Naples •…•… Romagnia.
• * 1.1131

  Description of Maluesia.
• * 1.1132

  Vittore de Garzons go∣uern•…•…r of Na∣ples.
• * 1.1133

  The Islands taken from the Venetian•…•… by Barbarossa.
• * 1.1134

  Scardona t•…•…∣ken by the Ve∣netians.
• * 1.1135

  The Turke•…•… of Obrouazzo re•…•…ire 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1136

  An. 1537▪
• * 1.1137

  Soliman seem∣eth to desire peace with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Venetians.
• * 1.1138

  The Venetians suspect hi•…•…▪
• * 1.1139

  The Emper•…•… in sh•…•…w desire•…•… to make warre on the Turke.
• * 1.1140

  His officers confirme his desire.
• * 1.1141

  The great signes why men did suspect the Emperor.
• * 1.1142

  The French Kings designes and end:
• * 1.1143

  The Pope sendeth to the Emperor and the French King to make them friends.
• * 1.1144

  Sundry opini∣ons of the▪ Se∣nate.
• * 1.1145

  The reasons of those who de∣sired peace with Soliman.
• * 1.1146

  The resons of those that were desirous to ioyne with the league and to make war vp∣on the Turkes.
• * 1.1147

  VVhat the Se∣nate propoun∣ded to write to the Baily.
• * 1.1148

  The propositio•…•… taketh none effect.
• * 1.1149

  The Emperors Ambassador vseth meanes to breake the Venetians neu∣trality.
• * 1.1150

  The S•…•…ts an∣swer to the Em∣peror.
• * 1.1151

  The Venetians dilligence to fortifie the Ilands against the Turkes.
• * 1.1152

  The Isle of Candi•…•…s offers to the 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1153

  The Venetians are vncertaine what way the Turkes would take.
• * 1.1154

  Andrew Doria chos•…•… General of the Army•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the League.
• * 1.1155

  The Expence d•…•…uided be∣twixt those of the League.
• * 1.1156

  The Venetians acquainted with Solimans preparations for warre are exhorted to peace.
• * 1.1157

  The Senate determines warre against Soliman.
• * 1.1158

  Andre Doria, Generall by sea and the Duke of Vrbin by land.
• * 1.1159

  The Venetians seeke•…•… to draw the King of England to the league.
• * 1.1160

  The French K•…•…ng 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to enter 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the League.
• * 1.1161

  The Senate v∣seth meanes to get money to d•…•…fray the ex∣pences of the w•…•…res.
• * 1.1162

  A treaty of peace betwixt the Emperor and the French King is broken off.
• * 1.1163

  The Emperor declareth that he could not take armes for the 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1164

  The Pope resol •…•…th to goe to Nice to ato•…•… the Emperor & the French King.
• * 1.1165

  VVhat mo•…•…ued these Princes to grant the enteruiew at Nice,
• * 1.1166

  Octauio Farne∣ze marrieth the Emperors bastard daugh∣ter.
• * 1.1167

  Ambassadors chosen at Ve∣nice to be pre∣sent at the As∣sembly of Nice
• * 1.1168

  The Pope de∣nied entrance int•…•… Nice.
• * 1.1169

  These two Princes refuse to set one ano∣ther at Nice in t•…•…e Popes presence.
• * 1.1170

  Enterview of Emperor and king at Aigues▪ Mortes.
• * 1.1171

  VVar renew∣ed betwixt the Emperor and the King.
• * 1.1172

  The Turkish feasts of Baie∣ran.
• * 1.1173

  Barbarossa spoi∣led the Islands of the Archi∣pelago.
• * 1.1174

  A worthy re∣compence.
• * 1.1175

  Moro his oration to the gentle∣men of Can∣dy.
• * 1.1176

  The Prouid a∣tors speech is applanded by all men.
• * 1.1177

  The Candio 〈◊〉〈◊〉 preparations for their de∣fenc•…•….
• * 1.1178

  Barbrrossa commeth into Candy.
• * 1.1179

  Barbarossa bi•…•… etrc•…•…t from Candy.
• * 1.1180

  The Sangiach of Morea sum moneth Naples and Maluesia to yeeld.
• * 1.1181

  Resolution of those Inhabi∣tancs.
• * 1.1182

  The Turkes wast Dalmat•…•…
• * 1.1183

  The Venetian•…•… aid sent into Dalmatia.
• * 1.1184

  The resolution of the Turkes in Dalmatia.
• * 1.1185

  Nadin yeeldeth to the Turkes.
• * 1.1186

  The Turkes take the castle of Laurana.
• * 1.1187

  Succors sent to Antiuare.
• * 1.1188

  The Sibenssans braue resoluti∣on.
• * 1.1189

  The Turkes leaue Dalma∣tia, and goe in∣to Hungary.
• * 1.1190

  The Propositi∣on of the cap∣tains in Dal∣matia.
• * 1.1191

  The Senate & the Duke of Vrbin, allow this propositi∣on.
• * 1.1192

  The Venetians take Obronaz∣za.
• * 1.1193

  The Turkes arriued caus∣eth the Uene∣tians to quit Obrouazz•…•… & there other en∣terprizes.
• * 1.1194

  The difficulties allead•…•…ed by the Duke of Vrbin.
• * 1.1195

  The Senate resolueth to send home the L•…•…squenets, to passe on no farther.
• * 1.1196

  The Venetians •…•…aual army, and that of the Pope, ioyneth •…•…ogather.
• * 1.1197

  M•…•…n did doubt the Emperors promis•…•…s.
• * 1.1198

  The Emperor•…•… desci•…•…ne.
• * 1.1199

  Don Ferra•…•… de Gonzaga commeth 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.1200

  The Patriarke Grimani his enterprize vp∣on the castle of Pr•…•…ueze.
• * 1.1201

  The Patriarke saileth of his enterprize.
• * 1.1202

  Doria comm•…•… to Corsoù.
• * 1.1203

  The army of the •…•…eague re∣solueth to goe to Preueze.
• * 1.1204

  The order of the league ar∣my.
• * 1.1205

  The Turkes do wonder at the Christians boldnesse.
• * 1.1206

  Sundry opini∣ons of the Turkish army.
• * 1.1207

  Barbarossa his considerations vpon those sundry op•…•…ni∣ons.
• * 1.1208

  The number of Barbarossas slect.
• * 1.1209

  Barbarossa sendeth sorth fifty Gallies to discouer the Christian ar∣my.
• * 1.1210

  The Turkish Gallics are in a manner put to•…•…out by the army of the league.
• * 1.1211

  Doria in sauor to the enemies causeth his ar∣my to retire.
• * 1.1212

  The Turkes come forth of the Gulphe & doe put them selues in bat∣taile.
• * 1.1213

  Doria his remon∣strance 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the whole army.
• * 1.1214

  Capello his an∣swere.
• * 1.1215

  The resolution to giue baitaile reioyceth the •…•…hole army.
• * 1.1216

  The Turkes purpose broken by Doria.
• * 1.1217

  •…•…arbarossa re∣pentcth his comming sorth of the Gu•…•…phe of Preueze.
• * 1.1218

  The order of Barbarossa his Army.
• * 1.1219

  The enemies got into a plac•…•… of safety tho∣row the fault of those of the league.
• * 1.1220

  VVhat Dori•…•… purpose wa•…•….
• * 1.1221

  Capels speech to Doria to prouoke him to the battaile.
• * 1.1222

  The whole ar∣my crieth out for battaile.
• * 1.1223

  A beginning of the battaile a sarre off.
• * 1.1224

  Doria his re∣treat encou∣rageth the Turkes.
• * 1.1225

  The Army of the league re∣turneth to Corsou.
• * 1.1226

  The Turkish Army retireth into the Oulph of Lar•…•…a.
• * 1.1227

  All men cry out vpon Doria.
• * 1.1228

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 so•…•…row for his fault.
• * 1.1229

  Sundry opini∣ons in the con∣federates councell.
• * 1.1230

  The Confede∣rates Army commeth •…•…o besiege castel∣nouo.
• * 1.1231

  The Spaniards insolency.
• * 1.1232

  The most part of Barbarossas fl•…•…et is cast away by tem∣pest.
• * 1.1233

  Doria his ex∣cuses because be would not fight with Barbarossa.
• * 1.1234

  Do•…•…ia with his galleys retireth •…•…nto Sicyll.
• * 1.1235

  The death of the T•…•…uke of Vrbi•…•….
• * 1.1236

  The Emperors excuses for not performing his promise.
• * 1.1237

  The Emperors 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ayme.
• * 1.1238

  The Senate re∣solueth to be at peace with the Turke.
• * 1.1239

  Gr•…•…tti goeth to Constanti∣nople to treat of an agree∣ment.
• * 1.1240

  The Emperors Ambassador doth in the Senate com∣plaine against this agree∣ment.
• * 1.1241

  The Senates answer to the Ambassador.
• * 1.1242

  An. 1538.
• * 1.1243

  The Senate prepareth for the conseruati∣on of their sea townes.
• * 1.1244

  Agreement be∣twixt the Pope and the duke of Vrbin.
• * 1.1245

  The Turkes great prepara∣tions for the recouery of Castel-nouo.
• * 1.1246

  Draguts policy to encompasse the Venetian Galleys.
• * 1.1247

  The Basche complaineth to Gritti against the 〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.1248

  Truce for three 〈◊〉〈◊〉 betwixt the Turkes and Venetians.
• * 1.1249

  Petro Zene 〈◊〉〈◊〉 chosen Ambas sador to goe to Soliman.
• * 1.1250

  The French Ambassadors deseigne.
• * 1.1251

  Truce is pro∣longed wi•…•…h the Venet•…•…ans.
• * 1.1252

  The Spaniards not being ab•…•…e to keepe Castel∣nouo, offer it to the Venetians.
• * 1.1253

  Castel-nouo it taken by Bar∣barossa.
• * 1.1254

  Barbarossa su•…•…moneth the Gouernor of Cata•…•…ra to deliuer the towne vnto him.
• * 1.1255

  The Gouernors answer to Barbarossa.
• * 1.1256

  Barbarossa doth in vaine giue assaults •…•…o Catarra.
• * 1.1257

  Doria his pro∣position to the Prouidator Contar•…•…n.
• * 1.1258

  The Prouida∣tors answer to Doria.
• * 1.1259

  The Basha•…•… demands to Contaren.
• * 1.1260

  The Ambassa∣dors answer to the Bashas.
• * 1.1261

  The Senates doubt vpon those newes.
• * 1.1262

  The French Kings loue to∣wards the Ve∣netians.
• * 1.1263

  The Emperour desi•…•…eth pas∣sage through France to goe into Flander•…•….
• * 1.1264

  Sundry opini∣ons in the Se∣nate.
• * 1.1265

  Dearth of vic∣tuals in V•…•…∣nice.
• * 1.1266

  Cantelmo de∣parteth from Venice with∣out any com∣mission.
• * 1.1267

  The Emperour and French King send to the Venetians to diuert them from peace with the Turkes.
• * 1.1268

  The Mar∣quis of Gua∣sto his speech to the Senate.
• * 1.1269

  The Senates answere to the 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1270

  These cause of the Popes doubt and dis∣content.
• * 1.1271

  The Pope send∣eth the Cardi∣nal Farnese Legatinto France.
• * 1.1272

  An Hungarian Ambassador cōmeth to Ve∣nice.
• * 1.1273

  Lodouico B•…•…∣doario is cho∣sen Ambassa∣dor to goe to Soliman.
• * 1.1274

  VVhat the Se∣nate did en∣ioyne the Am∣bassador.
• * 1.1275

  The Emperor commeth to Paris.
• * 1.1276

  1540.
• * 1.1277

  The answers of the Emperor & the French King to the Ve∣netian Ambas∣sador.
• * 1.1278

  The Senate re∣solueth on peace with Soliman.
• * 1.1279

  Bado•…•…rio is greatly 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1280

  Peace conclu ded with the Turkes accor∣ding to their owne mindes.
• * 1.1281

  The Tr•…•…itors which bew•…•…ay∣ed 〈◊〉〈◊〉 commission to the Turkes. are disc•…•…nered.
• * 1.1282

  Force is offered to the lodging of the, French Ambassador.
• * 1.1283

  The traitors are punished.
• * 1.1284

  The French king compla•…•…∣neth to the French Ambas∣sador.
• * 1.1285

  The Ambassa∣dors braue ans∣wer.
• * 1.1286

  The sorrow & greefe of those of Naples and Maluesia when they vnderstood the conditions of the peace.
• * 1.1287

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Moceniga his oration to the people of Naples.
• * 1.1288

  Naples and Miluesia are consigned to the Turke.
• * 1.1289

  The great hope of a long peace.
• * 1.1290

  The cause of the warre of Hun∣gary.
• * 1.1291

  Soliman incen∣sed agoinst Fer dinand deter∣mineth to make warre in Austria.
• * 1.1292

  The Emperors reso•…•…ution con∣tra•…•…y to his promise.
• * 1.1293

  The King re∣solu•…•…th to vse the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 aid•…•… against the Emperor.
• * 1.1294

  Rincon and Fregosa being se•…•…t Ambassa∣dors to Soliman are marthered.
• * 1.1295

  The kings com∣plain•…•…s against the Emperor.
• * 1.1296

  The reasons that mo•…•…ued the Ven•…•…ians to keep them∣selues 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1297

  The Senate re∣fuseth to haue their Councell helda•…•… Vincen za.
• * 1.1298

  Peace confir∣med betwixt the Turkes & the Venetians.
• * 1.1299

  The Venetians are greeued for that there is not a Duke of Milan.
• * 1.1300

  The Venetians are solicited to leaue their neutrality.
• * 1.1301

  The Senats re∣fus•…•…th to make any new alli∣ance.
• * 1.1302

  The French King is incen∣sed against the Emperor.
• * 1.1303

  Polin▪ solici∣teth the Vene∣tians to make a league with the French King.
• * 1.1304

  The Senates answere to 〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.1305

  The French king at one time raiseth three armies against 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Em∣peror.
• * 1.1306

  The King is 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with the Venetian▪
• * 1.1307

  Polin iis prac∣t•…•…ses against the Venetians.
• * 1.1308

  Miranis taken •…•…rom Ferdi∣nand.
• * 1.1309

  The Venetians doubts vpon the taking of Maran.
• * 1.1310

  The Senats an∣swere to the French Amba∣ssador.
• * 1.1311

  The Senats an∣swer to Ferdi∣nad.
• * 1.1312

  The V•…•…netians raise the sort of Maran.
• * 1.1313

  The controuer∣sie be•…•…wixt the Venetians and Ferdinand is put to compro∣mise.
• * 1.1314

  An. 1543.
• * 1.1315

  Great prepa∣rations for war on all sides.
• * 1.1316

  The Emperor allieth himself wi•…•…h Henry King of Eng∣land.
• * 1.1317

  The Pope goeth about to make alliance with the Venetians.
• * 1.1318

  The Sena•…•…es a•…•…swer to the Pope.
• * 1.1319

  The Venetians doe arme for their owne safety and de∣fense.
• * 1.1320

  The Turkes take Regio in Calabria.
• * 1.1321

  Barbarossa his fleet at Mar∣s•…•…illes.
• * 1.1322

  Barbarossa taketh the city of Nice and then r•…•…turneth to Marseille•…•….
• * 1.1323

  The Emperor returneth into Italy.
• * 1.1324

  The Popes de∣s•…•…ignes to con∣fer with the Emperor.
• * 1.1325

  The Emperor resuseth to conser with the Pope.
• * 1.1326

  The Pope and Emperors en∣teruiew at Buss•…•…tisto no purpose.
• * 1.1327

  The Turke maketh warre in Hungary.
• * 1.1328

  A Turkish Am∣bassador com∣meth to Ve∣nice.
• * 1.1329

  Sharp war a∣bout Maran.
• * 1.1330

  A motion made to the Senate for the hauing of Ma•…•…an.
• * 1.1331

  Agreement be∣twixt Strossi and the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 concer∣ning Maran.
• * 1.1332

  The Venetian•…•… excuses to the Emperor and Ferdinand, concerning Maran.
• * 1.1333

  An. 1544.
• * 1.1334

  The Emperor•…•… and French Kingspractizes to draw •…•…he Venetians to their party.
• * 1.1335

  The Cardinall of Ferra a ex∣harieth the V•…•…netian. In the French Kings behalfe.
• * 1.1336

  The Senates answer to the Cardinal.
• * 1.1337

  Anew practize to draw the Venetians to the league with the King.
• * 1.1338

  Two Legats sent to those Princes to procure peace.
• * 1.1339

  The English do beseege 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1340

  A Spanish Frier begin∣neth the treaty of peace be∣twixt those Princes.
• * 1.1341

  The Capitula∣tions of the peace.
• * 1.1342

  Both sides com∣plaine of the Pope.
• * 1.1343

  Diuers opini∣ons concerning this peace.
• * 1.1344

  Barbarossa his cruell spoiles as he returned home.
• * 1.1345

  The Emperor and Ferdinand doe send Am∣bassadors to treat of agree∣ment with the Turkes.
• * 1.1346

  An. 1545.
• * 1.1347

  These Princes Ambassadours come to Con∣stantinople.
• * 1.1348

  Commissioners decide the controuersie betwixt Fer∣dinand and the Venetians.
• * 1.1349

  Solimen is 〈◊〉〈◊〉 informed of the Venetians.
• * 1.1350

  VVhat did mooue the Em∣peror to solicit truce with So∣liman.
• * 1.1351

  Truce for one yeere betwixt the Emperor, his brother, & Soliman.
• * 1.1352

  Contention be∣twixt the Ve∣netians and the Turke.
• * 1.1353

  A tyrannicall law of the Turkes.
• * 1.1354

  An. 1546.
• * 1.1355

  The Pope gi∣ueth Parma and Placentia in title of Dutchy to his sonne Petro Lodouico.
• * 1.1356

  The Emperour refus•…•…th to inuest Petro Lodouico in the Dutchy of Porma and Placentia.
• * 1.1357

  The new Duke his offers to the Venetians.
• * 1.1358

  The Emperors and the French Kings difficul∣ties were cause of the peace of Italy.
• * 1.1359

  The Venetians reso•…•…s •…•…o diuert the Pope from medling with the Protestants
• * 1.1360

  The Senats an∣swer to the Pope and the Emperor.
• * 1.1361

  The Venetians grant passage to the Pope and Emperors troups.
• * 1.1362

  The number of the Emperors Army.
• * 1.1363

  VVho they were that took part with the Protestants.
• * 1.1364

  The number of the Protestants Army.
• * 1.1365

  The Pro testants suite to the Veneti∣ans.
• * 1.1366

  The Senaoes answere to the Protestants.
• * 1.1367

  The Duke of Saxon and the Lander•…•…ue of Hesse their suite to the Venetian Se∣nate. with their answer.
• * 1.1368

  The Venetians gentle answer to those of Aus bourg.
• * 1.1369

  The Venetians are in some doubt seing so many soldiers in Italy.
• * 1.1370

  The Popes dis∣course to driue the Venetians from their sus∣pition.
• * 1.1371

  The Pro∣testants take Chiusa.
• * 1.1372

  The occasions of the enemies losse.
• * 1.1373

  The Cardinall Farn•…•…se com∣meth to Uenice
• * 1.1374

  VVho be Venetian Gen∣tlemen with their Pre•…•…oga∣tiues.
• * 1.1375

  The Popes com∣plaints against the Emperor.
• * 1.1376

  The Emperors complaints a∣gainst the Pope.
• * 1.1377

  The Emperor returneth so Milan.
• * 1.1378

  The Sienois rise against the Spaniards.
• * 1.1379

  The Emperors deseigns in I∣taly.
• * 1.1380

  The death of Petro Lodoui∣co the Popes Sonne.
• * 1.1381

  The death of Francis the first French King & Henry the eight King of England.
• * 1.1382

  Henry the Se∣cond French King.
• * 1.1383

  The Senate sen∣deth Ambassa∣dors to the new Fench King.
• * 1.1384

  And to Ed∣ward the Sixt, King of Eng∣land.
• * 1.1385

  The Cardinall Saint George is sent Legat into France.
• * 1.1386

  Pet•…•…o Stross•…•… sent sor into France to tro∣ble the peace of Italy.
• * 1.1387

  Horratin Far∣n se marrieth King Henries daughter.
• * 1.1388

  Gonzaga •…•…xeu seth•…•…im concer ning the death of Petro Lodo∣uico.
• * 1.1389

  The Pope an•…•… French King do solicit•…•… the Venetians a∣gainst the Em peror.
• * 1.1390

  The Senates a•…•…swer to the Po•…•…e and French King.
• * 1.1391

  Sundry practi∣ses in Italy.
• * 1.1392

  An. 1548.
• * 1.1393

  The French Kings doubts and deseignes
• * 1.1394

  The Pope is greatly •…•…er∣piexed.
• * 1.1395

  The Pope to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the At∣mains sendeth a Legat into Germany.
• * 1.1396

  Solimans Ar∣my against the Persians.
• * 1.1397

  Soliman mak∣eth truce with Christian Princes.
• * 1.1398

  Strise betwixt the Emperor & French king
• * 1.1399

  Soliman sen∣deth Imperi∣o•…•…s letters to the Emperor.
• * 1.1400

  Contention concerning the place where the Councel should be held.
• * 1.1401

  The death of Pope Paul the third.
• * 1.1402

  Parma is kept by Camill•…•… Vrsino.
• * 1.1403

  The Cordin•…•…ll de Monte is chosen Pope, and called by the name of Iulius the third.
• * 1.1404

  The Senat•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Am∣bassador•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Pope.
• * 1.1405

  Horatio Far∣n•…•…se putteth himselfe and family into the French K•…•…ngs protection.
• * 1.1406

  Presages of great warres.
• * 1.1407

  The Turke sen∣deth an Am∣bassador to Venice.
• * 1.1408

  Catherin Zene 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sent Am•…•…as∣sador to the Turke.
• * 1.1409

  An. 1550.
• * 1.1410

  A 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1411

  An. 1551.
• * 1.1412

  The Pope not ▪ thinking there on, causeth great warres in Italy.
• * 1.1413

  Proposition of an agreement about Parma.
• * 1.1414

  VVho hindred the Emperor from allowing of that agree∣ment.
• * 1.1415

  The Pope seek∣eth meanes of agreement with the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 King.
• * 1.1416

  The warre continueth in Italy.
• * 1.1417

  Strossi his pollicy to vic∣tuall Parma.
• * 1.1418

  The Duke of Florence tak∣eth the Empe∣rors party.
• * 1.1419

  The Duke of Ferrara cra∣ueth àduice of the Venetians how to behaue himselfe in those troubles in Italy.
• * 1.1420

  A discre•…•…t an∣swer of the Venetians to the Duke of Ferrar•…•….
• * 1.1421

  Instructions sent by the French King to the Cardi∣nall Tournon to be propoun∣ded to the Ve∣netian Senate.
• * 1.1422

  The Senates answer to the Cardinall▪ Tourno•…•…
• * 1.1423

  The Germaine Princes treate with the French King against the Emperor.
• * 1.1424

  The Pope by his Legate go∣eth about to att•…•…ne the Emperor and the French King.
• * 1.1425

  The King inci∣•…•…ed agai•…•…st the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 bid∣deth annates.
• * 1.1426

  A great Tur∣•…•…ish fleet at Sea.
• * 1.1427

  The course held by the Turkish •…•…leet at Sea.
• * 1.1428

  The Turke•…•… make war in Hungary and Transiluania
• * 1.1429

  F•…•…rdinand doth 〈◊〉〈◊〉 enioy 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1430

  All Germany is band•…•…d a∣ga•…•…nst the Em∣peror and his brother Fer∣•…•…inand.
• * 1.1431

  Ferdinand to free himselfe from war wi•…•…h the Turke of∣fere•…•…h to pay him tribute.
• * 1.1432

  Friar George the C•…•…rdinall is murthered.
• * 1.1433

  The Venetians preparations when they heard how the Turkes armed.
• * 1.1434

  Metz is taken by t•…•…e French.
• * 1.1435

  The French King commeth as farre as the R•…•…ine in fauor of the Pr•…•…te∣stant Princes.
• * 1.1436

  〈…〉〈…〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of •…•…∣bourg.
• * 1.1437

  The Prince of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1438

  The enterprise of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 pro∣pounded to the King.
• * 1.1439

  The Prince of Salerno his proposition to the Venetian Senate.
• * 1.1440

  The Senotes answers to the Prince of Sa∣•…•….
• * 1.1441

  The Pace of ch•…•…usa is taken by the Protes∣tants.
• * 1.1442

  Peace betw•…•…xt the Emperor and Germaine Princes.
• * 1.1443

  The Prince of Salerno •…•…∣neth to Venite from the king.
• * 1.1444

  The Oration of Selua the Frech Kings Ambassador to the Vene∣tian Senate▪
• * 1.1445

  The Senats ans∣were to the Prince of Sa∣lerne and the French Ambas∣sador.
• * 1.1446

  The enterprize of Naples be∣ing found very difficul•…•… is re∣•…•… by the King.
• * 1.1447

  The Almanis band them∣selues against the French King concer∣ning Metz Thou, and Ver∣dun.
• * 1.1448

  The Emperor s•…•…ndeth the Vicero•…•… of Na∣ples against Sienna.
• * 1.1449

  The Kings de∣mand t•…•… the Siennois.
• * 1.1450

  The Viceroy of Naples spoi∣leth the coun∣try of the Sien∣nois.
• * 1.1451

  An. 1552.
• * 1.1452

  The councell of •…•…enne reui∣ueth the me∣mory and exe∣cution of the l•…•…st will and testament of the Cardinal Zene.
• * 1.1453

  The death of Edward the sixth King of England.
• * 1.1454

  The Duke of Florence send∣eth forces a∣gainst the Si∣ennois.
• * 1.1455

  An. 1553.
• * 1.1456

  An. 1554.
• * 1.1457

  An. 1555. The death of Pope Iulius he third.
• * 1.1458

  The election of Pope Paul the fourth.
• * 1.1459

  The Emperor Charles resign∣eth all his States to his sonne Philip, and to his bro∣ther Ferdinand
• * 1.1460

  Truce granted and soone bro∣ken
• * 1.1461

  An. 1556.
• * 1.1462

  The Pope an enemy to the Spaniards.
• * 1.1463

  The Duke of Alua taketh diuers townes from the Pope.
• * 1.1464

  The Venetians being entrea∣ted by the Pope vse meanes to pacifie the Duke of Alua.
• * 1.1465

  Octauio Far∣neze 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his Dutchy.
• * 1.1466

  An. 1557. The Duke of Guise com∣meth into I∣taly.
• * 1.1467

  The losse of the battaile of Saint Law∣rence, and the towne of Saint Quintins.
• * 1.1468

  The Spaniards demands vpon the treaty of peace with the Pope.
• * 1.1469

  Peace betwixt the Pope and Spaniards.
• * 1.1470

  VVarres be∣twixt Soli∣mans two soones.
• * 1.1471

  An. 1558.
• * 1.1472

  The taking of Calais.
• * 1.1473

  Francis Daul∣phin of Vien∣nois mar•…•…ieth the Queene of Scots.
• * 1.1474

  The French take Thyonuille
• * 1.1475

  An. 1559.
• * 1.1476

  Peace conclu∣d•…•… betwixt the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Spanish Kings.
• * 1.1477

  The Pirates pursued by Bembo saue •…•…hemselues in Durazzo.
• * 1.1478

  The death of Pope Paul the fourth.
• * 1.1479

  A Popular commotion in Rome.
• * 1.1480

  Venetian Am∣bassadors to the French King.
• * 1.1481

  The creation of Pope Pius the fourth.
• * 1.1482

  The Cardinall Carassa and three of his kinsmen are put to death.
• * 1.1483

  The death of Andre Doria.
• * 1.1484

  The Venetians send Ambassa∣dors to the Pope.
• * 1.1485

  The ouerture of the councell of Trent.
• * 1.1486

  An. 1560. Charles the ninth French King.
• * 1.1487

  The Cardinal•…•… se•…•…t by the Pope to the the councell.
• * 1.1488

  The Venetian 〈◊〉〈◊〉, that were present at the councell of •…•…rent.
• * 1.1489

  The Pope end∣•…•… the contro∣tronersie be∣t•…•…ixt the Am∣bassadors of France and Spaine.
• * 1.1490

  A strange ac∣cident at Rome.
• * 1.1491

  The Venetians chase away the Pirats.
• * 1.1492

  Maximil•…•…an Emperor in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 fathers stead.
• * 1.1493

  An. 1565.
• * 1.1494

  The great harme with the Inquisiti∣•…•…n doth after the manner of Spaine.
• * 1.1495

  The Senate of Milans answer to the King of Spaine concer∣ning the In∣quisition.
• * 1.1496

  The Venetian•…•… answer to the Pope.
• * 1.1497

  The Death of Pope Piu•…•… quar•…•…us, ànd the election of Peus quintus
• * 1.1498

  The death of Soliman be∣fore Zighet.
• * 1.1499

  The Venetians send Ambassa dors to Selim the new Em∣peror.
• * 1.1500

  A mischeuous practise of a reuoulted Iew.
• * 1.1501

  The Ceremony of bringing Ambassadors to the great Lord
• * 1.1502

  The Veneti∣an Ambassa∣dor•…•… •…•…∣on to the Empepor.
• * 1.1503

  S•…•…lim ratisieth the Venetians alliance.
• * 1.1504

  The forme of the great Lords oath.
• * 1.1505

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 do pur•…•…e the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Pirats.
• * 1.1506

  The Arcenall of Uenice, burnt.
• * 1.1507

  The first moti∣on of the en∣terprize of Cyprus for the Turke.
• * 1.1508

  Selim com∣•…•… the enterprise of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…o bes 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as.
• * 1.1509

  The councel of Mahomet the Visier Bascha.
• * 1.1510

  The opinion of the other Bas∣c•…•…as contrary to that of Mahomet.
• * 1.1511

  The reasons of the two Bas∣chas contrary to M•…•…homet.
• * 1.1512

  Selim resol∣ueth to inuade the Isle of Cyprus
• * 1.1513

  The Senate are certainly ad∣uertised of the Turkes enter∣prise vpon Cyprus▪
• * 1.1514

  The Venetians preparation for the warre of Cyprus.
• * 1.1515

  Treason practi zed by a Ci∣priot.
• * 1.1516

  Treason is dis couered & the Author ex•…•…cu∣ted.
• * 1.1517

  Supplies of one thousand men sent into Cyprus.
• * 1.1518

  The voluntary offer of Iero∣nimo Marti∣nenga.
• * 1.1519

  The death of Martinenga.
• * 1.1520

  The Venetians implore the aide of Christi∣an Princes.
• * 1.1521

  Reasons pro∣pounded to the Pope to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 him to releeue them.
• * 1.1522

  The Pope sen∣deth to exhort the Catholicke King to ioyne in that warre against the Turke.
• * 1.1523

  The King of Spains answer to the Popes content.
• * 1.1524

  The Venetian∣solicit the Em peror to the same effect.
• * 1.1525

  The Emperors answer to the Venetian Am∣bassador.
• * 1.1526

  The Pope 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the French King to haue •…•…n band in this warre.
• * 1.1527

  The answer of the King and the Queen his mother to the Pope.
• * 1.1528

  The French Kings offer to the Venetians
• * 1.1529

  The Venetians solicit the King of Persi∣a to make war vppon Selim.
• * 1.1530

  The Chancel∣ler of Persia his answer con∣cerning the Emperors de∣mand.
• * 1.1531

  The Turkes preparations for the warre of Cyprus.
• * 1.1532

  The Baylies re∣monstrance to the Bascha Mahomet.
• * 1.1533

  Selim s•…•…ndeth a d•…•…fiance to Uenice vnlesse they surrender the Realme of of Cyprus.
• * 1.1534

  The Chiaus presenteth Se∣lims letters.
• * 1.1535

  The Senate•…•… answer to the 〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.1536

  The contents of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 let∣ters.
• * 1.1537

  The Senates answer to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 letters.
• * 1.1538

  The Venetians great prepara∣tions.
• * 1.1539

  VV•…•…r opened in a•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1540

  Selim is great∣ly discontented for the smal respect and en∣tertainment giuen to his C•…•…ians.
• * 1.1541

  The Venetians 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Am∣bassador to t•…•…e E•…•…peror to so∣licit him to enter into the le•…•…gue.
• * 1.1542

  The Emperors answer to the Venetian Am∣bassador.
• * 1.1543

  The Venetian▪ propositions in the •…•…ourt of S•…•…aine, with the difficulties alleadgea there•…•…pon.
• * 1.1544

  The Popes pro∣position to a∣•…•… delay.
• * 1.1545

  The fl•…•…et re∣ceiueth great discommodity by their aboad at Z•…•…ra.
• * 1.1546

  The Pope arm∣eth twelue Galli•…•…s where∣of Colonna is made General.
• * 1.1547

  The cause which s•…•…aied the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at C•…•…rfou.
• * 1.1548

  The enter∣prize of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 broken off in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the d•…•…fficulty thereof.
• * 1.1549

  The Venetian fleet 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by the Senats com∣mandement.
• * 1.1550

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the Pope, King of Spaine and V•…•…netians ioyne together.
• * 1.1551

  Mustapha, Ge∣nerall of the enterprize of Cyprus.
• * 1.1552

  The Tuk•…•…s re∣•…•… from Tina.
• * 1.1553

  The number of the Turkish fleet.
• * 1.1554

  1570.
• * 1.1555

  The Turk•…•…sh fleet landed.
• * 1.1556

  Mustaph•…•… by 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to win the Cy∣•…•….
• * 1.1557

  Astor Baillone General in Cyprus.
• * 1.1558

  Piali is of o∣pinion to be∣seege Fama∣gosta first.
• * 1.1559

  Mustapha mainte•…•…neth the contrary and his opinion is followed.
• * 1.1560

  The enemies are encamped before 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1561

  The sytuation of the city of Nicotia.
• * 1.1562

  Discord among the comman∣ders in the ci∣ty.
• * 1.1563

  Mustapha his great credit a∣mong the soul∣diers.
• * 1.1564

  Prayers and Processions in Nicotia.
• * 1.1565

  Those of Nico∣sia mak•…•… cer∣ta•…•…ne sall•…•…es.
• * 1.1566

  The Turkes build three for•…•…es neere to the city.
• * 1.1567

  The enemies fierce battery.
• * 1.1568

  A fierce assault giu•…•…n •…•…o foure bulwarks at one time.
• * 1.1569

  An assault giuen to the Bulwarke Constantia.
• * 1.1570

  The Turk•…•…s take the Bal∣warke Con∣stantia.
• * 1.1571

  The Con•…•…t Roccas slaine.
• * 1.1572

  All the Bul∣warke 〈◊〉〈◊〉 taken.
• * 1.1573

  The Cit•…•…y of Nicosia is taken.
• * 1.1574

  The Citty is sackt.
• * 1.1575

  The number of the dead.
• * 1.1576

  Cyprus yeeldeth to the Turkes, Famagosta excepted.
• * 1.1577

  Sund•…•…y opini∣ons of the Cap∣ta•…•…nes o•…•… •…•…he Christian fleet.
• * 1.1578

  The Generall is o•…•… op•…•…nion •…•…o meet with the enemy & sight with him.
• * 1.1579

  The Number of the Christian fleet.
• * 1.1580

  Doria hearing of the losse of Nicotia, is de∣sirous •…•…o re∣turne home.
• * 1.1581

  The Generall & Prouidator vse reason to Doria to per∣swa•…•…e him 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1582

  Doria retur∣neth home.
• * 1.1583

  Diuers places subiect to the Turke yield to the Venetians
• * 1.1584

  The Popes •…•…x-hortation for the conclusion of the league.
• * 1.1585

  Long 〈◊〉〈◊〉 v∣sed in the con∣clusion of the league.
• * 1.1586

  The Spaniards idle excuses.
• * 1.1587

  The difficul∣ties propoun∣ded by the Spaniards.
• * 1.1588

  The Emperor 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to en∣ter into the 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1589

  The Venetian 〈◊〉〈◊〉 resol∣•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to Fama∣•…•….
• * 1.1590

  The Marquis Rangon 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 b•…•…s ex∣cuse.
• * 1.1591

  Lodouieo Mar∣tinenga 〈◊〉〈◊〉 supplies t•…•… Fa∣•…•….
• * 1.1592

  Collonna •…•…∣peth two great dangers as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 returned kemeward.
• * 1.1593

  Sebastiano Ve∣nieri is made Generall in Zanne bis steed.
• * 1.1594

  The Bascha Mahomet re∣uiueth the trea ty of peace.
• * 1.1595

  The Venetians great doubts & perplexities.
• * 1.1596

  The Venetians request to the Pope.
• * 1.1597

  The Emperor will not allow of the Popes new 〈◊〉〈◊〉 gi∣uen to the Duke of Flo∣rence.
• * 1.1598

  The Venetians resolue to •…•…ar∣ken to peace.
• * 1.1599

  The Articles of peace propoun∣ded by the Ve∣netians.
• * 1.1600

  The Pope and Spaniards seeke to the Venetians to conclude the league.
• * 1.1601

  Colonnas re∣monstrance to the Venetian Seuate.
• * 1.1602

  The Senates answer to Colonna.
• * 1.1603

  T•…•…pulos opini∣on 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to warre.
• * 1.1604

  Ba•…•…oario is of a contrary opinion.
• * 1.1605

  VVarre is re∣solued at Veniee.
• * 1.1606

  The league against the Turke con∣cluded.
• * 1.1607

  The Articles of the league.
• * 1.1608

  Don •…•…ohn de Austria Ge∣nerall of the Army.
• * 1.1609

  Some particu∣lar treaties.
• * 1.1610

  Supplie sent to Famagosta.
• * 1.1611

  Flight of the enemies Gal∣leys.
• * 1.1612

  The Venetians 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at Gambella.
• * 1.1613

  More aide sent to Famagosta.
• * 1.1614

  The number of soldiers in Famogosta.
• * 1.1615

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 re•…•…bel against the 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1616

  Prince Mo∣cenigo his re∣monstrance to the great coun∣c•…•…ll.
• * 1.1617

  The number of the Turkish fl•…•…et.
• * 1.1618

  The Turkes are put to •…•…outin Candy.
• * 1.1619

  The Turkes waste the Islands of Zant and Ce∣phalonia.
• * 1.1620

  Bash is Mah•…•…∣mets proposi∣tion to the Ve∣netian Bayly.
• * 1.1621

  The Venetians expect the •…•…onfederates ▪ fleets.
• * 1.1622

  VVhat 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Generall Uenieri to sa•…•…l to Messina.
• * 1.1623

  The league is published at Venice.
• * 1.1624

  The Pope 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the King of Por∣tugall to enter into the leagu.
• * 1.1625

  The Ueneti∣a•…•…s will not heare o•…•… peace.
• * 1.1626

  The Turkes come before Dulcigna.
• * 1.1627

  Dulc•…•…gna yeel∣deth to the Turkes in composition, which is badly obserued.
• * 1.1628

  The enemies fleet 〈◊〉〈◊〉 forth of the Gulph of Vi∣nice.
• * 1.1629

  The Christians surprize some of the enemies by ambuscad•…•….
• * 1.1630

  The Turkes come before 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1631

  The Venetians complaints to the Pope.
• * 1.1632

  The King of Spains answer to the •…•…ardi∣nall Alexan∣drine.
• * 1.1633

  The Emperor is doubtfull.
• * 1.1634

  The Emperors resolution.
• * 1.1635

  The leagues of∣fer to the Em∣peror.
• * 1.1636

  The arriuall of Don Iohn with the Spanish forces.
• * 1.1637

  The offers of Don Iohn to the Venetians.
• * 1.1638

  The enemies army before •…•…amagosta.
• * 1.1639

  The care of those within the Citty for their •…•…ortifi∣cations.
• * 1.1640

  The number of seruiceable men in the citty
• * 1.1641

  Bragadins ex∣hortations to his soldiers.
• * 1.1642

  The enemies 〈◊〉〈◊〉 fiue bat∣teries at one time.
• * 1.1643

  The dil•…•…gent care of the Captaines of the Citty.▪
• * 1.1644

  Euery Cap∣taines charge.
• * 1.1645

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 m•…•…ke a coun∣ter battery.
• * 1.1646

  They want pou•…•…er.
• * 1.1647

  The Toure of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by a mine.
• * 1.1648

  The enemies are repulsed from the breach.
• * 1.1649

  The Turkes in the presence of the Generall Mustapha, giue a furious assault and are repul∣sed.
• * 1.1650

  The great la∣bour and trou∣ble of t•…•…e be∣seeged.
• * 1.1651

  An assault gi∣uen •…•…n foure sundry places •…•…t one time.
• * 1.1652

  •…•…he volour of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1653

  Another inuen tion o•…•… the ene∣mies to take the Cit•…•…y.
• * 1.1654

  The estate of the beseeged 〈◊〉〈◊〉 them to yeeld.
• * 1.1655

  The Captains s•…•…ndry opini∣ons.
• * 1.1656

  The beseeged resolue to yeeld on composition
• * 1.1657

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 giuen on both sides.
• * 1.1658

  The arti•…•…les of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.1659

  Mustapha his seigned curtesie
• * 1.1660

  Bragadin 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to Mustapha his tent.
• * 1.1661

  Mustapha his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…∣cliy.
• * 1.1662

  More then barbarous cru∣elty.
• * 1.1663

  Great impiety against the dead.
• * 1.1664

  The Bascha re∣turneth to Con¦stantinople.
• * 1.1665

  The vniting of the Confede∣rate fleet.
• * 1.1666

  The Aduise of D. Bernardino de Requesens for fighting or not fighting with the ene∣my.
• * 1.1667

  Barbarico 〈◊〉〈◊〉 speec•…•… pe•…•…swading to fight.
• * 1.1668

  Cornia his speech con∣firming Bat∣baricos.
• * 1.1669

  The Turkish fleet in the Gulph of Le∣panto.
• * 1.1670

  An accident which had like to haue bred great mi•…•…chiefe.
• * 1.1671

  Don Iohn 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a∣gainst Venieri.
• * 1.1672

  Venieri his an∣swer to them.
• * 1.1673

  The order and forme of the chr•…•…stian bat∣taile.
• * 2.1

  Don Iohns Oration to his soldiors.
• * 2.2

  The speech of Hassan Bascha per∣swadi•…•…g to fight.
• * 2.3

  Mehemet Bey bis speech, dis∣sweding from fight.
• * 2.4

  The order of the Turkish, flect.
• * 3.1

  Ali Basha his speech of incourage∣ment to his captaine•…•… and soldiers at the in∣•…•…ant of bat∣taile.
• * 3.2

  The memora∣ble battaile of Lepanto.
• * 3.3

  Small hope in the reuolt of the Turkes subiects.
• * 3.4

  The Uene•…•…ians preparations against the spring.
• * 3.5

  The Emperors excuses to free himselfe from entring into the league.
• * 3.6

  The King of Portugals an∣swer to the Cardinall, and Venetians.
• * 3.7

  The King of Portugals pro∣mises.
• * 3.8

  The Pope soli∣•…•… the King of Poland.
• * 3.9

  Bascha Maho∣met soliciteth the Emperor.
• * 3.10

  The Pope and Venetians doubt.
• * 3.11

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 Turkes 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the Christians be∣fore the bat∣taile.
• * 3.12

  The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of peace beoken.
• * 3.13

  Rumors diu•…•…l∣ged by the Spa∣niard.
• * 3.14

  The Spaniards feare least the Uenetians make peace with the Turks
• * 3.15

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Pius Quintus.
• * 3.16

  The Venetians solicite the Cardinalls in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 3.17

  The enterprize vppon Castelno •…•…o propounded to the Senate.
• * 3.18

  The attempt vppon Castel∣nouo in vaine.
• * 3.19

  Soranza is ho∣norably enter∣teined by Don Iohn at Mes∣sina.
• * 3.20

  His Remon∣strance to D. Iohn.
• * 3.21

  The Spanish delayes.
• * 3.22

  The true cause of Don Iohns delay.
• * 3.23

  D. John lea∣dett the Vene∣tians 22. Gal∣lies.
• * 3.24

  The French King •…•…orhideth his subi•…•…cts to goe into Flan∣•…•…ers.
• * 3.25

  R•…•…asont al∣leadged by the Protestants to moou•…•… the French King to warre.
• * 3.26

  The Spaniards are iealous of the French mens actions.
• * 3.27

  Ambassadors 〈◊〉〈◊〉 from Ve∣nice, to France and Spaine.
• * 3.28

  The Venetian Ambassadors discourse to the French Kin•…•…
• * 3.29

  The French Kings answere to the Veneti∣an Ambassa∣dor.
• * 3.30

  The mother Queene of France write•…•… to the Pope.
• * 3.31

  The Catholick King•…•…s resolu∣tion before the Ambassadors ariual.
• * 3.32

  Tepulo his sute to the Kinge of Spaine.
• * 3.33

  The senates re∣solution when they perceiued the Spanish delaies:
• * 3.34

  Colonna his •…•…duice.
• * 3.35

  General Fos∣carini his an∣swer to Colon∣na.
• * 3.36

  Colonna's opi∣nion concer∣ning the setting forward to∣wards the •…•…∣mies. G•…•…l. Andrada his opinion.
• * 3.37

  Don Iohn cer∣tifies the Vene∣tians that bee will shortly bee with them.
• * 3.38

  The fleet de∣parteth not∣withstanding.
• * 3.39

  The Christians descry the Tur kish fleet.
• * 3.40

  The number of the Christian and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 3.41

  Ul•…•…zzalies po∣licy.
• * 3.42

  The death of Sigismond King of Po∣land.
• * 3.43

  The Christians fl•…•…et des•…•…rieth that of the Turkes.
• * 3.44

  The Turkes re∣tire from the Christian fleet.
• * 3.45

  Vluzzali de∣termineth to assai•…•…ls D. Iohn.
• * 3.46

  •…•… proposition made 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 wit•…•… & secur•…•… D. Iohn.
• * 3.47

  Difficultie•…•… arising about the meeting of Don Iohn.
• * 3.48

  Quirini sale conducts the great vessels to the fleet.
• * 3.49

  The number of the confede∣rate fleet.
• * 3.50

  The order of the Confede∣rates fleet.
• * 3.51

  The Confede∣rates error.
• * 3.52

  The enemies 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to Mo∣don.
• * 3.53

  Ul•…•…zzali in∣•…•… not to fight.
• * 3.54

  Charles of Lor∣raine Duke of Mayen in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 fleete.
• * 3.55

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the Turkish fleet.
• * 3.56

  A vayne and vnprofitable engin
• * 3.57

  The situation of the Castle of Nauarine.
• * 3.58

  The Turkes comming to re∣leeue t•…•…e castle doe much anoy the Christians.
• * 3.59

  The Confede∣rats discamp•…•… from before Nauarin.
• * 3.60

  Don Iohns excuses.
• * 3.61

  Tluzzali re∣turnes to Con∣stantinople.
• * 3.62

  The Cousede rate fleet coms to Corfou.
• * 3.63

  The Spaniards desirous to re∣turne into the west.
• * 3.64

  Don Iohn goes to Naples.
• * 3.65

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 to paine.
• * 3.66

  The Venetians complaine to the Pope.
• * 3.67

  Venieri his ho•…•… noroble enter∣tainment and welcome at Uenice.
• * 3.68

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 3.69

  The Turkes build a fort against Cata∣rin.
• * 3.70

  The Uenetians take the sort.
• * 3.71

  They ruine it by a myne.
• * 3.72

  Motion of Peace at Con∣stantinople with the Vene tian Baily.
• * 3.73

  The Senate at first makes no great account of peace.
• * 3.74

  Peace is pro∣pounded in the Councell of Tenne.
• * 3.75

  The Spaniards conference with the Ve∣netian Am∣bassador.
• * 3.76

  The Emperor seekes to hin∣der peace.
• * 3.77

  Prince Moce∣nigo his orati∣on to the coun∣cell of Tenne.
• * 3.78

  The Senates resolution to peace.
• * 3.79

  Causes moouing the Senate to imbrace peace.
• * 3.80

  The Bishop of Aix Ambassa∣dor for the French King at Constanti∣nople.
• * 3.81

  The Turkes deale roughly with the Ve∣netian Bayly.
• * 3.82

  Peace conclu∣ded betwixt the Turkes & Venetians.
• * 3.83

  Articles of peace.
• * 3.84

  Sundry opini∣ons concerning the Venetians peace.
• * 3.85

  The King of Spaine i•…•… not discontented with the Ve∣netians.
• * 3.86

  The Venetians send an ex∣presse Amba∣ssador to the Pope.
• * 3.87

  The Ambassa∣dors excuses to the Pope.
• * 3.88

  The Turkish fleet depa•…•…teth from Constan∣tinople.
• * 3.89

  The Amba∣ssadors speech to Selim.
• * 3.90

  An. 1573.
• * 3.91

  Henry Duke of Aniou chosen king of Poland.
• * 3.92

  Troubles in the Dutchy of Vrbin.
• * 3.93

  Don Iohn goes into Affrick.
• * 3.94

  The death of Selim Empe∣ror of Turkes.
• * 3.95

  The King of Poland re∣turnes secretly into France.
• * 3.96

  The entertain∣ment giuen to the French King at Vien∣na in Austii•…•….
• * 3.97

  The Dukes of Ferrara and Neuers come with King Henry to Ve∣nice.
• * 3.98

  The French Kings magnifi∣cent reception at Uenice.
• * 3.99

  The death of Cosmo de Me∣dicis first great Duke of Tus∣cany.
• * 3.100

  Troubles in Genoa appea∣sed.
• * 3.101

  An. 1575.
• * 3.102

  The Venetians scare.
• * 3.103

  The Turkish army in the Empires con∣fines.
• * 3.104

  The cause why Amurath ha∣ted the Empe∣ror.
• * 3.105

  Amurath con∣firmes peace with the Ue∣netians.
• * 3.106

  The Prince & Se•…•…ates vow to God.
• * 3.107

  Great charity of a Prelat.
• * 3.108

  Price set vpon all wares.
• * 3.109

  The Pope sends a golden rose to the Veneti∣an Prince.
• * 3.110

  Brescia afflic∣ted with the plague.
• * 3.111

  Sundry prodi∣gies seene in the ayre.
• * 3.112

  Ambassadors s•…•…nt to the King of Spain.
• * 3.113

  Decrces a∣gainst the Ve∣netians super∣fluous expen∣ces.
• * 3.114

  A Decree a∣gainst superflu∣ous dyet.
• * 3.115

  A Persia•…•… Am∣bassador 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to Veni•…•…e.
• * 3.116

  Vpon what oc∣casion the Pope caused tenne daies to be taken from the yeere.
• * 3.117

  Contention be∣twixt the Ve∣n•…•…tians and Knights of Malta.
• * 3.118

  A Uenotian Gentleman is ex•…•…cuted to satisfie the Turke.
• * 3.119

  The creation of Pope Sixtus the fifth.
• * 3.120

  A Dutchesse i•…•… cruelly mur∣thered in Padu•…•….
• * 3.121

  The murthe∣rers are put to death.
• * 3.122

  Pope Sixtus death, with the creation of Pope Vrban the 7.
• * 3.123

  Creation of Pope Gregory the 14.
• * 3.124

  The deceit of a Greeke.
• * 3.125

  The Venetians are iealous of Turke•…•… and 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 3.126

  The building of the bridge of Rialto.
• * 3.127

  The death of Pope Gregory the 14.
• * 3.128

  The Creation and death of Pope Innocent the 9.
• * 3.129

  The Creation of Pope Cle∣ment the 7.
• * 3.130

  A Prodigie.
• * 3.131

  The Instituti∣on of the Uene∣tian Academy.
• * 3.132

  A soll•…•…mne Am•…•…assage from F•…•…ance to Rome.
• * 3.133

  The Venetians send Ambassa∣dors to the French King.
• * 3.134

  The Pope bl•…•…s∣seth and ab∣solu•…•…th the •…•…rench King.
• * 3.135

  The Cardinall of Florence Legat in France.
• * 3.136

  The Venetians defeat the Vsi∣coques.
• * 3.137

  Henry the 4. motioneth a marriage with the Princ•…•…sse of Florence.
• * 3.138

  The Kings mariage cele∣brated at Florence.
• * 3.139

  Italy zealou•…•… of the Spani∣ard•…•….
• * 3.140

  Peace betwixt the French King and Duke of Sauoy
• * 3.141

  The ca•…•…se of t•…•…e Veneti∣an•…•… icalou si•…•….
• * 3.142

  Diuers Pirates are defeated.
• * 3.143

  The Senates D•…•…cree aga•…•…nst the Clergie.
• * 3.144

  A decree con∣cerning build∣ing of Chur∣ches.
• * 3.145

  The death of Pope Clement the viii.
• * 3.146

  The election of Pope Leo the 10. and his sodaine death.
• * 3.147

  The creation of Pope Paul the fift.
• * 3.148

  The Pope com∣plaineth to the Venetian Am∣bassador.
• * 3.149

  The Popes re∣solution vpon the Venetians refusall.
• * 3.150

  The Senates answer to the Pope.
• * 3.151

  The censures against the Venetians are publish•…•…d.
• * 3.152

  The Venetians make a decla∣ration vpon the Popes ex∣communicati∣on.
• * 3.153

  The French King mediates peace betwixt the Pope and Uenetians.
• * 3.154

  Cardin•…•…ll Per∣ron 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with the Pope.
• * 3.155

  The Pope grants a com∣mission to the Ca•…•…dinal Ioy∣•…•…use.
• * 3.156

  The Commissi∣on is giuen to Cardinal Ioy∣•…•…use to reuoke the censures at Venice.
• * 3.157

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 Articles on which the i•…•…terdiction was reuok•…•…d.
• * 3.158

  The Cardinals reception at Uenice.
• * 3.159

  After what manner the prisoners were deliuered.
• * 3.160

  The manner of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the censures.
• * 3.161

  The Duke re∣uok•…•…th his first declaration.
• * 3.162

  The Senats doubt.