The history of France written in Italian by the Count Gualdo Priorato, containing all the memorable actions in France and other neighbouring kingdoms ; the translation whereof being begun by the Right Honourable Henry, late Earl of Monmouth, was finished by William Brent, Esq.

THE HISTORY OF FRANCE. The NINTH BOOK. (Book 9)

The CONTENTS.

The Parisians begin to resent the Miseries of War; wish the King's Return; have divers Meetings in the Pallace-Royal, and Town House. They send seve∣ral times to his Majesty, to desire him to return to Paris. Mareschal Turenne removes his Camp from Ville Neuse St. George, and goes towards the Mar∣ne. The Duke of Guise being freed from Imprisonment in Spain, comes to Paris. Conde and Lorrain with their Troops march 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a Campagne; their Proceedings. The King returns to Paris, with general Applause. Re-unites the Two Parliaments; passes some Decrees, and banisheth divers Councellours. The Duke of Orleans will not see the King; he goes to Limburs, and from thence to Blois: Uproars continue still in Bourdeaux: where the Olmiere pre∣dominates. The Spaniards continue the Siege of Barcellona: The French make many attempts to relieve it, but in vain. Marquess St. Andrea's For∣ces revo••ts, and goes towards France: The Proceeding of the Kings Army in Guyenne. Marquess Plessis Belliere sent by the Court to Catalonia; his Attempts, and Proceedings in Guyenne. Barcellona Capitulates with Don John of Austria, and Surrenders. Cassall is threatned by the Spaniards: The Duke of Mantua presseth the Court of France for Assistance: He Nego∣tiates with the Spaniards and agrees. Count d' Argenson indeavours to de∣sturb him, but in vain; Forces are brought before the Town, the French are driven away, and the Town is put into the hands of the Duke its Master. The Courts resentment for the loss of this place. A Treaty between Poland and Sweden in Lubeck. Count Quince is sent into Piemont: Treaties with the Dutchess of Savoy, whose Embassadour is received in France, as those of Crowned Kings. Cardinal Retz is Imprisoned. Mazarine returns to France. The rise of the Wars between the English and the Hollanders; and what occur'd between those two Nations.

THE Armies this mean while faced one another neer Ville Neufe St. George; the Princes intended to straighten the Kings Camp so as they might force it to rise, and might fight it; and being more in number might destroy it. The Kings men stay there though they suffer much, thinking to weary out the Parisians, to reduce them to their duties, and to make them drive all Forreigners out of the City; yet nothing of moment is done, for both sides proceed warily. So as the Coun∣try

try being over-run on all sides by the Souldiery, Paris is the only place which is incommodated, none being sure to Traffick without the Gates, though with Guides or Pasports, without danger of being plundered or slain.

It was resolved on the First of September in the Town-house, to send to their Majesties the two Sheriffs, six Common-Councellors, three Quateri∣neri, four Citizens of every Quarter, and two of every one of the six Corporations of Merchants, whereupon Monsieur Pierre the Kings Solici∣tor was sent to Court, to procure Pasports for the said Commissioners. The Clergy of Paris were also desired to send Commissioners to Court, to desire his Majesty to return to his Metropolis, and Mazarine being gone, Cardinal Retz took that occasion, to receive the Cardinals Cap from his Majesty, and caused himself to be chosen the Clergy's chief Commissio∣ner; the Commissioners were twelve Canons of the Church of Nostre Dame, four of St. Chapelle, many Curats, and two of every Church-Com∣monalty. He arrived at Compiegne on the 10th of September, with a great Attendance; he made an Eloquent Oration to his Majesty, exhorting him to return to Paris; but the true Motive of his going, was said to be, to gratifie the Parisians in their desire of his Majesties return, and to be the mediator thereof himself, so to win the merit of so universal a good; and making advantage of Mazarine's absence, renders himself necessary to the Court; but in a particular Audience with the Queen, he strove to excuse and justifie himself, that he never had any thought of being chief Mini∣ster of State, as had been laid to his charge: Her Majesty after having ci∣villy received him, replyed, That she held him to be of too high a spirit and understanding, not to have had such an intention; that she had never listned to those popular Speeches, since that Imployment depending only upon the King, and her, neither of them had ever had any such thought, there was therefore no need of his justification on that behalf. The Cardinal being sufficiently an∣swer'd, and finding himself to be thought a cunning companion, sought by all means how to become considerable; to which purpose he applyed himself chiefly to two things, the one to insinuate himself more into the favour of Orleans, that he might rule him as he lifted; the other to marr all secret Treaties of the Prince of Conde with the Court, which was pri∣vately manag'd by Monsieur Goucourt, and Aiselin, by intelligence with Marquess Mortmar, working it so as that Conde might abandon Paris, and Orleans be the sole head of that party; whereby he thought to keep Ma∣zarine away, or to reap his ends, which were to put himself into such a posture, as that he might keep his Imployment, and reimburse the Mo∣nies which he had spent in these Troubles, whereby he had incurr'd a great Debt.

The Kings Answer was generall as formerly, That he was ready to come to Paris, when the Enemies to the common good were driven out. This was the Courts Maxime, to excite the City against the Princes, who though they laboured to make men believe that the Amnesty at Pontois was but a piece of cunning, it was notwithstanding accepted of by the gene∣rality, not only in Paris, but in Bourdeaux, though the Court being far of, and the Princess of Condy, Prince of Conti, Dutchess of Longueville and others being in Bourdeaux prevailed by their presence, and authority in that City. The new Councel of the Olmiere resolved, That the Parliament should not accept thereof, without the Prince of Conde's consent.

The Burdelois were the more obstinate herein, because the Kings Army wanted a General in Guyenne when Harcourt was gone from thence, ho∣ping according to the intimation given them by Marsine, to recover the

Towns lost by Condy's, especially since the King's Forces were grown so luke-warm, as they suffer'd Marsine to do what he would. Wherefore it being requisite to provide a new Chieftain; the Command of that Pro∣vince was committed to the Duke of Candale, the only Son to the Duke of Espernone, a young, lively, and generous Prince, and very valiant. Mar∣sine advanc't in the mean while to take the Castle of Ieloux in the Province of Albret, within three Leagues of Bazas, and entring the Town, which had neither Walls nor Garrison, he assaulted the Castle, which was yiel∣ded up unto him the first day, upon Discretion, Monsieur di Carbonsieux re∣maining Prisoner there. He left a Garrison there Commanded by Monsieur de la Magdalene, Captain of Conty's Brigade, who holding Intelligence af∣terwards with Monsieur Trassy the King's Commissary, was discovered by his Lieutenant, and wounded twice by him as he sought to escape through a Window, and was shot to Death by order from Marsine: He then be∣sieged the Castle of Chasteau di Masnes in the Sandas, wherein the Mistriss being absent who was Wife to the Marquess of Villa frank, it was notwith∣standing for some dayes defended by Monsieur Trajane, till having no hope of relief, he was forced to yield. Here was much good Houshold-stuff of Espernouns, and above 10000 Sacks of Corn; Monsieur St. Micant, Go∣vernour of Bazas was left Commander thereof; Marsine went then to take Mas d' Agenois, a City seated upon the Garomne, above la Reolle, not far from Marmanda, begirt with Walls and Towers after the ancient fashion, he assaulted it bravely, but it was stoutly defended by Monsieur de la Barre, till not being able to sustain a second assault for want of Men, it was taken by force, many of the Souldiers and Citizens being slain, and not a few of the Prince his Men, amongst which Monsieur Ligier, a Guiarate of Bourde∣aux. Being puft up by these prosperous Successes, Marsine past over the Garomne, took St. Basile, and hearing that Marmanda, and Agen were rea∣dy to compound, (for after Harcourt was gone, all the people thereabouts were at their wits end) he advanced thitherward: Monsieur Galapian shew'd him how easie it was to prevent the King's Men, by taking the aforesaid two Cities; but this Opinion was not followed; but that of Monsieur Ba∣vias prevailed, or rather particular interest, which invited him towards Perigont, a rich Country, and not ruin'd by War: He came before Sarlat, a Town in the bottom between two Mountains, one League distant from Dorgona a great River, where having made a breach in the Walls, he could not notwithstanding make an assault, being hindred by a subterranean Cave; from whence several Soldiers sallying out the Enemy was repulst, and the place would have been preserved, had not the Citizens been di∣vided among themselves, but many of them inclining unto the Prince's party, they forc't the others to come to an Agreement, and receive their Garrison, which Marsine left there under Monsieur Lavagniack Onderdieu: He advanc't from thence with his Horse, and got good Contribution from the neighbouring parts. When Candal was come with the King's Forces, he repulst the Enemy, Marsine being gone towards Perigord, so as the For∣ces being divided were the more easily destroy'd. This Prince made much progress, wan many of his Father's Enemies by his generosity, and got esti∣mation at Court.

At this time Duke Mercure kept in Provence, as Governor thereof, but without Angolesme's dismission, who was the true Governor, who by Order from the King was made Prisoner in Bern by Monsieur Guialotiera, and brought to the King's Camp before Montrond. The Duke had promis'd the King to go no more to Provence without his Majestie's leave, and to stay at Paris; but pretending to go to his own lands, he was detein'd by the way,

it being thought that he meant to go to Tolon, the chief Haven of that Pro∣vince, to foment the Sedition which was begun there; which imprison∣ment, joyn'd to the diligence used by Mercure, reduced Tolon to obedience, and rendred the whole Province peaceful. Angolesme was Prisoner about three Months, but the Queen being assured by the Dutchess his Wife, and by Duke Ioyeuse, of his good intentions, he was set at liberty in the begin∣ning of October, and was by his Majesty permitted to tarry at Paris, and at the Court, keeping still the Letters Patents of Governor of Provence.

When Cardinal de Retz, and the rest of the Clergy's Commissioners had delivered their Message to their Majesties at Champaigne, the aforesaid Pierre was sent back with the Answer, which was this:

That his Majesty bearing still a good affection to his good Town of Pa∣ris, and being well assured of its sincerity, was exceedingly grieved to hear how it had been opprest, particularly on the 4th of Iuly last, when all things were perverted which he had applied to make his good intentions known; Firing, Massacres, and other strange things being practised to di∣vert his faithful Subjects from their duties, lawful Officers and Magistrates being banished, the Governor Provost of Merchants, and others forc'd to flee for safety of their lives; in whose Places the Authors of these Outrages were put; that new Sheriffs were chosen contrary to the King's Prohibiti∣on; Taxes laid upon the People, whilst those of the Country-Towns were barbarously plunder'd; that his Majesty had done what was possible, yea, many things to the prejudice of his Dignity, to restore them to their for∣mer Liberty, and to preserve them from the miseries of War; affording the Princes honourable means to lay down their Arms, and to return to their due Obedience; instead whereof they had made an Assembly of the City (the Chief Magistrates whereof had neither lawful Title nor Character) under a specious pretence of demanding Peace to delude the People, when they themselves refused it, and declared they could not accept thereof, though the Conditions were the same that they desired: that thinking of nothing less than of laying down Arms, they had called a Spanish Army to Paris. with which they joyn'd theirs, intending to maintain their violent usurped Authority, and to divide the poor Subjects Substance amongst them∣selves: that they had given a sinister Interpretation to what he had done, and did do for preserving the Lives and Liberties of his Officers, and Magi∣strates; that he long'd to see that noble City in that splendor, and abundance it was in the first years of his Reign; to re-establish Commerce, and his Par∣liament, and to honour it with his Presence, not only for his own content, but for that of all his good Subjects; that the mean while his Majesty would be well satisfied to see a good many Officers, and Inhabitants visit him: but considering that the Body of the City was then commanded, guided, and composed by the Adherents of those Princes, who contrary to Custome, were come into the said Assembly, to hinder any thing that might not make for War: That he ought not to Authenticate any thing that was done in their presence, specially in that of Beaufort and Broussell, who were the chief Authors of all the present Disorders, that therefore he declared that Assem∣bly to be null, invalid, and unlawful, and consequently he could not grant the desired Pasports; but that he would grant Passes for any particular men that were desirous to see him, were they either lawfully chosen Magistrates, or other publick Officers, Merchants or Citizens, who should be gratiously listned unto in any thing they should represent.

Pierre returning with this Answer to Paris, where all things grew worse, not only in Commerce, but in Damage suffer'd by the Neighbouring parts by the depredations of both Armies, now that the season of sowing Corn,

and planting Vines came on, wherefore they began more openly, and with more fervour to resume treating with the Court by means of the Cardinal de Retz, Chasteaneuf, and other persons who desired Conde's ruine, no less than Mazarine's.

The Duke of Orleans seeming to have the same sense; and weary of these Combustions, reiterated his desire of quiet to Anville and others; and on the 20th of Sept. writ to the Queen, That having to his great joy by Marquess Ioyeuse Sambert understood, how gratiously his Majesty was minded to Peace, he thought himself bound to assure her by these Lines, that he and Conde did passionately desire it also: But that though the first Object of his Prayers to Heaven ought to be the welfare of the State, yet he protested that the in∣clination which he always had perfectly to honour her Majesty, was one of the chief Reasons thereof, and that nothing could ever happen, should alter the zeal and respect, whereby he declared himself her most obedient Ser∣vant.

At this time la Corte d' Aydes resolved to go to Pontois, in conformity to his Majestie's Orders; and his Majestie's other good Servants sought how to withdraw themselves out of the slavery of the Frondeure: At last the Bishop of Amiens, Father Bertaut a Franciscan, and divers others who shall be here∣after named, held an Assembly on the 24th of September, consisting of about four or five hundred men in the Palace-Royal, where the Counsellor Charles Preuost appear'd, who was totally upon good terms with the Court, and presented the Assembly with a Letter from the King, wherein his Majesty said, He had a great desire to return to Paris, but that he could not do it so long as its seditious Masters were there; wherefore he propounded, that all faithful Citi∣zens should take up Arms, should throw straw away, put Paper in their Hats, go into the Streets, and cry, Vive le Roy, and joyntly possess themselves of all the Chief Places of the City, drive out the Disturbers, and fall upon as many as should oppose their Design, which being done, he would then return. The Chief Authors of this Assembly, after the aforesaid Bishop of Amiens, Father Bertaut, and Coun∣cellor Preuost, who had the whole management of the Business, were, Mon∣sieur Barby the King's Maistre d' Hostella; Luines, Councellor of the Parlia∣ment of Mets; Monsr. Borgon; Monsr. de Fay; Messieurs Bidal, and Villars, both of them great Silk-Merchants; Monsr. Brun, Merchant of Tapistry; Monsr. Farin, the King's Secretary; Monsr. la Mare; Monsr. St. Michael, all which had many who sided with them. All these declared, that they had no other design in this their Assembly, than to find out the best means how to bring the King back to his Metropolis, which was upon the brink of ruine, without his Majestie's presence: They took a Solemn Oath to observe religiously all resolutions that should be taken, and therein if occasion should serve, spend their lives and livelihoods; taking upon them to defend, each of them in particular, and all in general, who should be injured by the con∣trary Party. The same Oath concluded, that they had no other end in this their meeting, but the Glory of God, and the Re-establishment of the King's lawful Authority after the manner of his Predecessors.

Though not above four or five hundred men met in this Assembly, yet had they many Adherents, and the six Corporations of Merchants concur'd with them, most of the Colonels of Quarters, with almost all the Commissio∣ners of the Town-house, their true end was to let the people see that there was in Paris a strong Faction for the King; and to oblige the Duke of Or∣leans to grant Passes to the Commissioners of Merchants, and of the Colo∣nels to go to Court, and treat with his Majesty, which was refused as pre∣judicial to the Interests of the Princes. This Solemn Oath being taken, some one proposed the Cardinal of Retz for the Head of this new Party; but those

who considered that this was proposed only to make him necessary at Court, and to bring him by degrees into the chief Administration of Government, opposed it mainly, saying, That they ought to receive no other Head, but he who should be sent and chosen by his Majesty.

The Princes, and all their Faction were much astonish't at this News, fore-seeing the down-fall of their Designs, and began to think how to re∣duce disorders, and how to keep off the currant which was coming upon them. Mareschal d' Estampes went with Orders from the Duke of Orleans to the Palace Royal to dissolve the Assembly, but in vain. Madamoselle thought to go thither her self in person, to break off these Negotiations, by her presence, and authority; but when she considered that her Reputation might be concerned therein, she forbore doing it; and she was wise therein, for the Assembly had prepared a bunch of white Ribbon for her, instead of Straw which she wore.

Thus the Morning of the 24th of September was spent; the Assembly was adjourned till the next day, when every one was charged to bring with him as many friends as he could get. The same day Monsieur de Pois, one of St. Mark's Knights, (an Honour which he received at Venice, for some Service done to that State) was sent to acquaint their Majesties how the Loyal Inhabitants were affected, touching their return to Paris; he fol∣lowed the Court, which was then gone from Marine to Mantcs; from whence he was sent back with such Instructions as shall be said here∣after.

The first good Effect which this Assembly produced was, That Councel∣lour Broussell knowing that the place of Provest di Merchants, which was conferr'd upon him by the violence and fury of the people, was unsubsist∣ant, resolved voluntarily to lay it down, lest he might be forc't to do so: He declared that since this was a Reason which kept the King from return∣ing to Paris, he parted the more willingly with it; the two Sheriffs, Gervas and Otry, who were put into the place of the others by Orleans, were ad∣vised to follow Broussell's Example, but would not, saying, They were law∣fully chosen, being loath to lose that Honour; but upon second thoughts, finding that they must be forc't to relinquish it, said, They were ready to for∣go it, wher they should know it to be the King's Pleasure.

The n••xt day Monsieur Vieux, the first Sheriff, and Pierre the Kings At∣tourny, were sent from the Town-House to the Court, to keep the busi∣ness on foot, and to manage their Majesties return; which these in the name of the Publick, beseeched them to do, the more to authorise and au∣thenticate their Resolutions. The Parliament of Pontois Decreed in fa∣vour of the aforesaid Provost, and of the whole Assembly in the Palace∣Royal, taking all those that were come, or that were to come into the said Assembly into the King's protection; prohibiting all Men of what condition soever, to acknowledge Beaufort for Governour of Paris, Broussells for Provost di Merchants, or Gervas and Otry for Sheriffs; and ordered these up∣on pain of Rebellion not to exercise their Offices: It commanded moreover, That no Victuals, or Ammunition should be brought to those who served under the Princes against the King.

This Decree was read, and published in Paris on the 27th of September: And a Manifesto of the said Assembly was also fixt upon every Corner of the Streets, the Contents whereof were, That the good Subjects and Servants of his Majestie assembled in the Palace-Royal, had no other end, but to re∣establish the Peace of the City, which could no wayes be had but by the presence of their lawful Lord, and by driving away Forreigners, and the disturbers of publick Peace. To this Manifesto was annext an Edict made

by the King at Compeigne on the 7th of the said Month, which contained, That his Majesty being informed that his good Subjects in his good Town of Paris, did continue their good Intentions to his Service, he did permit all, and every of the said Inhabitants, and in case of need, did command them, to take up Arms, joyn together, and possess themselves of such pla∣ces as they should think fit; fight those that should oppose them, imprison the seditious, and to do whatever they should think fit, to establish quiet, and intire obedience to the King; and to cause the said City to be gover∣ned according to antient manner by lawful Magistrates, under his Ma∣jesties Authority, who granted them full Authority to that purpose.

In pursuance of these good Intentions, it was agreed by the six Corpo∣rations of Merchants, to choose ten out of every Company, which were Clothiers, Grocers, Mercers, Skinners, Goldsmiths, and Bakers; and to send them to the Court, not only to witness their faithful Service to the King, but to desire his Majesty to return to Paris. The Assembly met again on the 26th at the Pallace-Royal, wherein the Resolution of the aforesaid Mer∣chants being represented, they Treated of nothing but how to Guard the City, that no more Forreigners might be admitted thereinto; nor that no Victuals or Ammunition should be sent out to the Confederates Camp, whereunto the Collonels were desired to look; and the Assembly was ad∣journed till the said Merchants Commissioners should be returned from Court, whereby they hoped they should acquire Peace. The same day Cava∣lier Pois returned from Court, with a new Amnesty granted by the King only to the Parisians, excluding the Parliament and Princes, who by sinister Inter∣pretations had abused the former.

He also brought a Letter from the King to the Collonels, with express Orders to guard the Gates well, not to let any of the Spanish, Lorrain, or Princes Armies enter, nor to suffer any Victuals or Ammunition to be sent out to them; to search all Towns where any of the adverse Souldiers might be lodged, and to put them out of the City, to the end that every one doing their duties, nothing might be left which might keep his Majesty from returning; assuring them, that he would particularly consider what they should do herein.

The Princes, and Parliament, hearing of all these Proceedings, the very day that they met to Treat of the Duke of Beaufort's Duel with deceased Ne∣meur's, they were not a little troubled, and the more for that there was no answer yet come to the Letter which Orleans sent to the Queen; though Duke Anuile had sent word it was well received, and that it should sudden∣ly receive a gratious Answer. They Treated upon the prejudice which their Party might receive by these publick and secret Conventicles, tend∣ing to Sedition, and how they might be remedied. But all things meet∣ing with many difficulties, they pitcht upon sending Talone, the Advocate General to Court, to reassume the Treaty of Peace, and all Meetings were forbidden, and the carrying of Paper or Straw about people. And Mesi∣eurs, Manyere, and Lesne, were deputed Commissioners, to inquire who were the Authours of the Assembly in the Palace-Royal; some were of Opinion to send for the Provost to give an account to the Parliament, for ha∣ving assisted in the said Assembly, but it took not, the major part thinking that it was too nice a thing to be toucht upon.

This mean while Monsieur de Veaux and Pierre, came to the King at Mantes, whither it was removed from Champeyny, as well for the incon∣veniencies which the Court began to feel there, as that it might be nearer Paris, for the better incouragement of Treaties: The Deputies delivered their Commission, shewing the universal good will to his Majestie's Service, and to the re-establishment of and restoring of his Authority. They were

gratiously received by his Majesty, and were sent back on the 28th of Septem∣ber to Paris with this Answer:

That his Majesty approved the Resolution taken by the Commonalty to establish the antient Orders, and of bringing every one to their due Obedi∣ence; He praised the Decree made in conformity to his Commands, of not suffering any Victuals, Arms, or Ammunition to be carryed out to the Ene∣mies Camp; and of not permitting any of the adverse Forces to come into the City: He said also, He was very well pleased to hear that Brussels had wil∣lingly laid down the Provost de Merchants Place, whereinto he had intru∣ded against Law, and to the prejudice of the Legitimate Possessor; but as for the pretended Sheriffs, who made it still lawful to execute those Offices, pretending to quit them when they should know his Majesties pleasure to the contrary; they could not but know; that their Election was greatly dis∣pleasing to him: wherefore he again commanded them to forgoe the said Places immediately, upon pain of such punishment as was due to Rebels, and disturbers of the Publick Peace. As for his return to Paris, the pith of his Answer was; That when his Enemies should be gone out, he would sudden∣ly return thither: He concluded, That as he was much satisfied with the Expulsion made by the Commons House of those who were entred thereinto unduly, and contrary to his Majesties intention; so he could not approve, but did annul whatsoever should be done in the said Assembly, whilst the Re∣bels and their Adherents should be there.

Whilst things went thus at Court, they forbare not to solicit the effecting of their intents at Paris, and the Parisians troubles encreasing still, by the continuance of the Spanish Forces about that City; part of the Duke of Wirte••berg's Baggage was sackt in the Street St. Honore, whilst the Condu∣ctors of them were busie in carrying Vine Muscade, and Spanish-wine from the Taverns to the Confederates Camp; and strickt Order was taken that no more of the Army should enter; whereat the Parliament and Princes were much astonished, finding that their power grew less and less; and they were yet more amazed, when they saw their straw out-done by the white Hatbands, and Girdles which were worn by many of the King's Friends.

The Assembly at the Palace-Royal being advertised that Beaufort's Guards were to convey Bread, du Pois wisht Gandry Captain of the Guard at Paris, to throw away his straw, as a mark of Sedition, and to take white Ribbon, the Loyal Colour, and threatned that he should be assaulted if he did not, for the Assembly had resolved to attack those who wore no white Ribbons, or Paper, and this was to begin at St. Martins Gate, where his Guard was to be: These words prevailed, so as not only this Captain, but all his Souldi∣ers put on white, and drunk the King's Health, and Mazarine's, and made Monsieur Vaugrimaux and Beaufort's Guards do the like; who as they would have gone out at the Gate were hindred by Chassan, Ligny, and du Pois, who told them, they were not to pass without Pasports from the King, or his Ge∣nerals; and that they might be known to be the King's Servants by wear∣ing white. Vaugrimaux answered, That he had the Princes Pass: Answer was made, They doubted not that, but that they must drink the King's health, and return back; which they did in their Hats, for want of Bowls. Beaufort hearing this, got on Horse-back to hinder it; but understanding the other Gentlemens resolution, he forbare. This beginning was follow∣ed by great and happy advantages to the King's Party, many others vying who should follow the Example. The King being satisfied with these de∣monstrations, Commanded on the 29th of September, that passage should be open for carriage of Corn, Wine, Wood, and all other Necessaries for the livelihood of so numerous a People. The Answer that he afterwards gave to the Merchants Commissioners was:

That his Majesty was very sensible of the new testimonies of Affection and Fi∣delity shew'd by his beloved City of Paris; that for his return to Paris, he would say no more to them than he had done to the Commissioners of the Town-House, a Copy whereof he gave them. He only added, That they needed to send no more to him for Peace, since he had already granted it by his Amnesty, declared in his Par∣liament at Pontois. The Form or Words whereof were, It became not Subjects to censure, since the most Guilty found therein Pardon for all their Faults; but that they were to apply themselves to those who caused the War to continue; be∣cause they thereby reaped advantage; that they were only to complain of them, since his Majesty had without any condition granted what was desired; yet they, going from their words so solemnly given, disposed still of the Royal Authority to the great prejudice of his Majesty, and of his State; keeping themselves joyn'd in Arms to the declared Enemies of the Crown, contrary to their promise: keeping the Chief City of the Kingdom in continual apprehension, by continuing Violence and Sedition, whereby the French were sackt and ruin'd by Strangers. Wherefore all men being concern'd in putting an end to such disorders, He hoped they would use their endeavours to put Paris into her former condition, notwithsta••ding the Ene∣mies to Peace. He ended his Answer with a desire of a Testimony of their good intentions, and as that which was more necessary than any thing else, that they would re-establish the Provost de Merchants, and the Sheriffs who were driven away, to their Places; which when it should be done, he would send such Orders as he intend∣ed should be observed by the Town-House; assuring the Merchants of his satisfacti∣on, goodwill, and Patronage.

The Chief of this Commission was Monsieur Pratin, Ancient Consul of the City; who spoke first of sending the Soldiers away, desiring his Maje∣sty to favour Paris with his presence, and to give Peace unto his Kingdom; assuring his Majesty of the Parisians Loyalty and Obedience. When Pratin had done, Monsr, Brun, a Mercer, declared the affection of his heart, ming∣ling tears and sighs with his words, protesting that he was ready to sacrifice his life for his Majestie's Service, and that he spoke for a hundred thousand men that were of the same mind: Yea, turning to the Queen who was pre∣sent, he desired her to move the King to satisfie his People with Peace.

The King appeared very well disposed thereunto, and to give his Sub∣jects all the satisfaction they could desire. Then Monsienr Perichon, a Mer∣cer, and a Master of L' Hostella de Dieu, represented the publick Miseries, the great number of sick people, the small Revenue, that the Houses in the Countries were plunder'd, the Farmers ruin'd; that there was no re∣medy for all these evils but his Majesties presence at Paris: All the rest spoke to the same purpose. The King reply'd, He would shortly give them all satisfa∣ction: and Monsieur St. Tot wisht them all to withdraw; and they were conducted by Count Nogent to the Convent of the Franciscan Friers, where they were lodged and defray'd.

These passages did greatly move the Princes, Parliament, and all that Fa∣ction; and finding that Paris was alter'd, and desired Peace, which de∣stroy'd their designes, they apply'd themselves to think how they might beat the King's Army, and become Masters of the Field; which was thought to be the only means for them to keep in Paris.

The Duke of Guise labour'd his freedom in the Spanish Court, and after several Treaties it was offered, That if the Queen Regent of France would change all the Prisoners she had upon the account of Spain, they would set the Duke at liberty. Guise acquainted the Christian Queen herewith, hum∣bly desiring this favour from her Majesty; who, though the number of the other Prisoners were above 4000, whereof were some of Quality, willing∣lingly exchanged them all for the Duke; and would have exchanged as ma∣ny

more, had she had them, to ransome a Prince, who had with such hazard of life, and at so vast expence, done so great Service to the Crown. Reci∣procal promises passing; by Order from the Queen, the Duke of Orleans sent the Baron Verdirone, Gentleman of his Bed-chamber, with power to make the Exchange; or else to offer the 500000 Crowns, which the Spaniards owed France, for other Treaties concerning Prisoners: but the Business be∣ing delay'd some months by reason of the long way, and the abovesaid No∣velties hapning the mean while, as also the freedom of Conde, Conti, and Longueville, the Spaniards went from their words, thinking it not fit to send back the Chief of the House of Guise, who was so obliged to the Queen: Wherefore they declared, that Conde being at liberty, they would proceed no further therein, unless he were first acquainted with it, and should like it.

This was cunningly done, to free the Duke from Obligation to the Queen, and to make him side with Conde, who began then to Treat privately with Spain; and the Spaniards thought it better for them, that the Duke should have his freedome without any Obligation to the Court, and should turn to Conde's party, then the exchange of so many Prisoners.

Conde, who at that time had got the exchange of the Government of Guienne for that of Burgundy, indeavoured also to get the Government of Champagnia, held by Conti, for the Government of Provenze; found that no man could be well established there, without winning the good will of the friends of the house of Guise, who having formerly had that Govern∣ment had won so much upon those Inhabitants, as no other Governour could ever please them. Conde making use of this occasion, sought to make the Duke favour him in working this his desire, by making him hope for li∣berty, if he would be a means that his friends in Provenze should declare for him.

The Duke soon found the trick, which was, That Conde might make use of this present conjuncture, to work his own ends, which when he should have obtained, he would mind his liberty no longer; wherefore he dexte∣rously made his friends and servants be desired, not to declare for the Prince, till he were at liberty. To which purpose all the Dukes friends desired Conde to beseech his Catholick Majesty, to declare that he would free Guise if Conde should desire it.

In this interim the aforesaid accidents happened; and the Prince going to Bourdeaux, sent Monsieur Lenet into Spain to Treat of joyning his Interests with those of the Catholick King, which Conde did much desire; and upon this occasion Lenet had leave to go Segovia, and to see, and speak with the Duke.

Many Proposals were made between them, at last Conde was perswaded out of meer honour, wherein he thought he should suffer much, if he should refuse a favour to a Prince, who was his friend, which would cost him but a word.

The Prince being thus resolved, beg'd the Dukes liberty of the Catholick King; and yet he retarded it for some Months, to see if when it should be known, Guise his friends in Provenze would do his brothers business; but failing therein, for they all resolved they would first see the Duke at liber∣ty, he indevor'd it in earnest. The Spaniards being allured by the same hopes, easily granted it; and resolved to deliver up the Duke into Conde's hands, and sent him with usual Guards to St. Sebastian in Biscay, where he stay'd a while, according to the Spaniards Custom, who alwayes spin out time, when they think they may get any good by delay.

The Duke, though a Prisoner, and not likely to acknowledge his Liberty

from any but Conde, forgot not his gratitude to the Queens good Intentions towards him; and therefore told Mareschal Grammont freely (who was Go∣vernour of Bearne, and Bayonne,) That he might assure their Majesties of his Fidelity, and that he would never upon any whatsoever consideration undertake any Service, which should linke him to the Spaniard; with whom he was ill satisfied, as having broken their word, and that they would free him only for their own Interest.

He was afterwards brought from St. Sebastian to Bourg, where he was de∣liver'd over to the Prince; he resolved to go streight for Paris, intending to recompence the Prince by interposing with their Majesties in making his Peace at Court; but to the misfortune of all men, he found the Court so far advanc't in Treaties with the Parisians, and Conde so ingaged with the Spaniards, as he soon failed in his hopes.

He declared himself eternally bound to the Prince, and that he would serve him in any thing, if he would forego the Interests of Spain, refusing (much to his praise,) whatsoever was offer'd him by the Spaniards, or by the Prince who affectionately imbraced him.

The Court seeing him in Paris, and that he convers'd much with the Prince, feared least he might ingage on the Prince's side, as the Chevalliere his brother had done. Abbate Oudedei indeavor'd to keep the Duke from do∣ing so, which was needless, for he found him wholly devoted to the Kings Service. He went afterwards to St. Germains, where he was grati∣ously received by their Majesties, and made one of his Majesties Privy∣Councel.

But to return to Mazarine, and to the Court: When Mazarine was come to Sedan, and gone from thence to Bovillion, three Leagues out of France, there were those, who indeavor'd Orleans his reconcilement to the Court. Cardinal Retz, and Chasteuneufe were perswaded, that if his Highness were once with the King, he might by degrees get into his favour, and reassuming his place in Councel, they should not be left out; wherefore by the consent also of the Duke of Lorrain, Marquess Lambert, of the House of Ioyeuse, was sent to Court, to introduce the Treaty.

The Queen, and Court, who apply'd themselves not only to Mazarine's return, but also to provide for their own safety, could not consent that Or∣leans, who was altogether a friend to Conde, now joyn'd with the Spaniards, should have any thing to do in the Government. Conde who was ingaged with Orleans by promise of Marriage between his Highness Daughter and Duke Anguiene, thought that although he were left out of the Treaty, he might yet in time by Orleans his means, make his Peace; so as these be∣ing nice respects, and reflecting much upon the wisdome of the Agents, that was found to be bad counsel, which exposed the Goverment to the arbitriment of others, which in an absolute Monarchy will admit of no Com∣panion.

It was conceived that the Prince had no minde to make his Peace then, for his great Soul being in love with glory, which was not to be sever'd from his Valour; and from other hopes given him by the Spaniards, designed at the same time to make his Name famous, and to get good store of Mony from the Spaniards; and that if he should fail of the appointed payments, he might at all times make his Peace with the King upon advantageous Terms; and that injoying the Wealth gotten by War, which far exceeded what he lost in France, he should make the World know, that Troubles be∣ing the advantage of a Souldier, they ought never to be fore-gone by one who professeth Arms.

These Treaties being over, the Princes and Parliament stood still upon

the point, That the Amnesty granted by the King, and pardon for all that had been done the last five years, was not as was desired, to wit, not general, and without condition; but that it reached only to the Parisians, bearing but little respect to the Princes and Parliament: they therefore pretended▪ that his Majesty should give ample, and unretractable Authority to the Duke of Orleans, to frame another, without any exceptions, and that it should be Authenticated by his Majesty in the Parliament of Paris, whither the Coun∣cellors that were gone to Pontois should come. Many meetings were had about this; his Royal Highness writ some Letters to Court: Duke An••i••e, and Marquess Ioyeuse negotiated with the Privy Council, and did many other things which would be too tedious to relate: But the Court finding that it would be prejudicial to the Kin'gs Authority, Pasports for the Parlia∣ments Commissioners were absolutely denied; so as Affairs remain'd intan∣gled as before.

The Parliament being met on the third of October to hear what News Marquess St. Lambert brought, who was return'd from Court: Two Boat∣men were imprisoned, who cry'd, Vive le Roy, e Mazarino, and many more were led to the Concergeria, and Process was ordered to be made against them, and it was said that this was done of purpose by some that gave them mony, that they might move the people to Sedition: This being brought to Court, and that the Parliament continued to proceed against some of the Assembly in the Palace-Royal, the King with his Council pass'd a Decree on the fifth of October, Whereby, He annull'd all the pretended proceedings of the Parliament of Paris, which were, or were to be publish'd; imposing severe punishment upon such Commissaries, or Iudges as should act any thing further therein; and commanded all his Majesties People in Paris, to see his Orders ex∣ecuted.

The King's Army lay this mean while at Ville Neuf St. George, much straitned by the Princes Troops and those of their Confederates, being more than they in number; and were in danger to be beaten out of their Quarters, and fought with in their Retreat; for not only many of their men, but many of their Horses perished for want of Victuals, and Forrage: The Court was much troubled hereat, fearing some sinister accident; for the Victory consisted in that Armies abode near Paris, whereby the endea∣vors which made for the King were fomented.

The Princes, who knew the importancie hereof, and that if the King's Army were preserved, all their Plots were ruin'd, did what they could to overcome it by Famine; but the neighbourhood of Paris, and the sickness which besell Conde, Wirtemberg, and many other of their Chief men, (which may truly be attributed to an effect of Divine Providence) caused the ruine of their Party. Together with these sick Princes, Lorrain and Beau∣fort; and almost all the Chief Commanders were come to Paris with a con∣siderable number of their best Soldiers, for fear of some Conspiracy amongst the Inhabitants, and to advise upon what was best to be done in this the Peo∣ples tottering condition, who were weary with the length of these troubles. Turenne, a no less wise than valiant Commander, after a short consultation had with his Collegue Ferte Seneterre, resolved to get out of these Straits, and to remove his Army elsewhere, where it might be safe, and have where∣on to live.

The 4th of October he past his Baggage and Artillery by night over the Seene by a Bridge of Boats; by break of day his Army rise in such order and silence, as they past undiscovered by the Enemies Sentinels.

Tavanes was the only General that was left in the enemies Camp, who being aware of Turenne's march, though too late, sounded to Horse, and put

his Army in order to follow, and fight him. But Turenne being shelter'd by the River, got soon to Corbeile, a place which was guarded by the King's men, where crossing the Seene upon a Stone-bridge, he escaped danger with much honor, and quarter'd upon the Marne, between Meie••x and Lagny, raising Victuals from all the neighbouring parts, for the maintenance of his Troops. The Princes were mightily amazed at this, Conde in particular was scandali∣zed; complaining of his Officers carelessness, saying, That had he been well, he would not have lost so favourable an occasion. But what is past being past remedy: On the 7th of the next Month, the Prince's Army advanc'd to the head of the Suburbs of St. Antoine, and for the defence of the City, incampt near St. Vincents-Castle. The King and Court went from Pontois to Mantes, that they might pass over the Seene there, and so come to St. Germains, inten∣ding to come to Paris, when things should go as it was hoped they would do.

The Parisians were resolved to withdraw themselves out of those miseries wherein they were plunged; and being all of the same mind, according∣ly as Fortune forsook the Princes, they sided with the King: wherefore Conde finding the storm ready to fall, bethought how to save himself and his Army, by removing quickly from Paris; and because by his going a∣way, and the King's return, the good of Paris, and the Cardinals return was foreseen, many sought to follow the Cardinals re-rising Fortune; and some of the Prince's Friends began to wheel about, and particularly Count Chavigny.

Being much vext in mind at these changes of Fortune, Chavigny fell sick, and died on the 11th of October; and this was the end of Lyon di Boutelliere, Count of Chavigny, aged 44 years; one who at 19 years old was admitted into the King's Council; and at the age of 21, and 24, was made Secretary of State; and in 1642 had the care of all the important affairs of the Crown committed to his charge; and when Lewis the Thirteenth died, was made Plenipotentiary at the Peace of Munster: He was quick-witted, of a lively spirit, ready counsel, and ambitious of Glory and Greatness.

The Parliament and Town-house met often touching the present occur∣rences; and all good men being grieved to see the poor Country people so wasted by the Souldiers, especially by the Lorrainers, who left nothing un∣ransackt; divers Commissioners were chosen in the Town-house on the 9th of October to go again to Court, and to desire their Majesties to return to Paris. But because the King intended not to admit of publick Addresses from that Assembly which was held illegitimate since Beaufort, pretended Go∣vernour of Paris, contrary to his Majesties Command, was there; it was propounded and agreed upon in Parliament, That Beaufort should be desired to renounce that Place willingly, and so not obviate that Peace which was so generally desired.

The Duke, who was absolutely absolved by Parliament for having slain Nemeurs, was willing to do it, and gave it back to Orleans, from whom he had received it. The Militia of Paris also was resolved to have Peace, to which the presence of the King being requisite, they chose 250 persons, to present their Duties to his Majesty, and to desire that he would honour his good Town of Paris with his Return. The Colonels acquainted the Court herewith, and desired wonted Pasports, which were soon grant∣ed, and the King writ unto them to come to St. Germains on the 14th of October, where he intended to be that night. Besides this Letter written to all in general, he writ to every particular Colonel, wherein he thanked them for the good will they shewed to his Service; he also writ to the Commonal∣ty, willing them to call a general Assembly in the Town-house, and to put the Provost de Merchants, Monsieur le Fevre and the Sheriffs Guilois, and Philip, again in their places.

Conde finding by these novelties that his abode in Paris would be to no purpose, and that all were resolved to receive the King, and peradventure to affront him, resolved to haste his departure; in pursuance whereof the Duke of Lorrain took his leave of the Duke of Orleans on the 11th of Octo∣ber, and went towards his Army, which was not far off. But as he went out of St. Martin's-gate, the Guards stopt him, as not having a Pass from the Commonalty, and some of them imputing all the Miseries of France to his fault, would have imprisoned him, till such time as his Forces should be out of the Kingdome; and till he should have given satisfaction to the parts adjacent, for the wrongs which they had received by his men; but this was not done in respect of the Duke of Orleans, but he had a thousand injurious Words given him. The next day he went out by his Highness Au∣thority; two dayes after parted Conde, Wirtenberg, Rochfaucaute, Taranto, with many Gentlemen, who would follow the Prince his Fortune; and as he went through the Streets, he was heard to say, That the Parisians hoped the King would return, but that should not end the War. He marched with his Army towards Reims the chief Town of Champagnia, thinking to winter there.

At his departure he left a Manifesto in Print at Paris, wherein he avowed all that he had done was for the Publick Good, and particularly for the Pari∣sians; exhorting them not to trust the Court, and to believe that he by force of Arms would constrain them to Peace, and to make all due satisfa∣ction.

Paris being thus abandon'd by Conde, and by all the chief Officers of his Army, the aforesaid Colonels, and Officers went to St. Germains, accom∣panied by above 200. Citizens; they haulted at Ruell, being the half way, where the first Colonel Monsieur Sene Chastenoville, received Letters from Secretary Guenegaude, saying, That the King would be at St. Germains, on Thursday-night, and that they might come thither on Friday-morning, as they did. They were met at the Park-Gate, by Monsieur St. Tote Master of the Ceremonies, with four of the King's Trumpeters, who brought them be∣tween the two Castles, where they lighted, and went to the Lodgings that were provided for them: They then had Audience of their Majesties, where the aforesaid Sene kneeling down with all the other Commissioners, having in a handsome Oration represented the general desire of his Majesties Pre∣sence; assured his Majesty in the Names of them all, of sincere Loyalty, and of intire Obedience, with their plighted Faiths, that they would be all rea∣dy, upon all Occurrences to spend their Lives and Livelyhoods in his Ma∣jesties Service. That they desired him not to refuse this favour, but to suf∣fer himself to be perswaded by the Tears, and Sighs which proceeded from their cordial Desires, protesting, That he should find nothing but due obse∣quiousness, and perfect propension to perform the parts of humble and faith∣ful Subjects.

The King himself answered them, That during Life he would remember the Service they did him upon this occasion; that he desired them to be alwayes assured of his good Affection; that though what those had done, who had revolted against him, might have made him go some whither else, yet since they were so desirous, he would go speedily to Paris; and that he would let the Provost des Mer∣chants, and the Sheriffs know what he thought fit to that purpose.

The Queen added, That she had alwayes loved Paris, and to live there; that she never doubted the Citizens Loyalty; that she would alwayes seek to keep the King in the good Opinion which he had of Paris, and in his resolution of coming thither speedily. After this the Commissioners were carried to a Sumptuous Dinner, provided for them by the King; Dinner being done, they took

their leaves of their Majesties and returned to Paris, where the people hear∣ing what had been said unto them, flockt about in the Streets, and welcom'd them with great Jubile.

Before his Majesty went from Mantes, he answered the Duke of Orleans his Letter, which Duke Anuille delivered him, touching the amendment of the Amnesty, which was to this purpose, That his Majesty desired not a new Declaration from him, but would be satisfied if he would make good his word, which he had so often given, of laying down Arms, and send∣ding Forreigners to the Frontiers, so to free Paris; that his Majesty had no more to do, having published a general Amnesty; and such a one, as the most Seditious could not add any thing unto it, for their safety, nor yet pretend that it might be registred in Paris, since it had been already done in the Parliament at Pontois; so as his Majesty having anticipated his de∣sire, there remain'd nothing but that the Duke should perform his promise; that his desire of having Pasports sent him was superfluous, since it tend∣ed only to gain time, till the Spanish Forces commanded by the Duke of Wirtenberg were come to Paris, to joyn with Conde's men, and to hold the people in hand, till an other Army of Spaniards commanded by Prince Lig∣ny, might come into the Kingdom, whereby they designed to keep Paris in slavery still, and keep his Majesty from thence. He concluded, That he ho∣ped by God's assistance, to preserve his Subjects from all mischief; and ex∣horted him to return to his Obedience.

When the said Colonels were gone, the resolution of the Courts return∣ing to Paris was variously disputed in the Privy Councel; those who feared that some scandalous novelty might fall out yet, there being many Malecon∣tents still there, said, The people were not to be trusted, who forgot what they had promised, upon any novelty; that therefore they should consider well, lest they might fall upon new Rocks. The Chancellour, Guarde de Seaux, Tilly, and almost all the rest were of this Opinion, saying, That they ought never to believe, where they had once deceived; nor think to find truth in those who had been so fouly false. But Prince Thomaso of Savoy, who had a chief hand in the Government, and who as a Forreigner desired what might be most serviceable to their Majesties, wisely weighing the prejudice which might be received, by suffering favourable occasions to escape their hands, was for entring Paris without delay, for driving the prime Seditious out; and as the Princes had made use of the popularity to strengthen their par∣ty, so the King ought to serve himself of the same to overthrow the con∣trary faction. Turenne was of the same Opinion; who considering that the parts about Paris were totally ruin'd, and the King's Army consequently but ill maintain'd, said, It was requisite to be Masters of Paris, in respect of the abundance of all things there, and that without that City, the King might be called a Prince without a Crown. This Opinion was imbraced.

In pursuance hereof, the Mareschal de l'Hospitall, the Provost des Mer∣chants, and the Sheriffs, being restored to their places, went with the said Colonels into Paris, to the great satisfaction of the people: Those of the contrary party indeavoured to keep them from coming into the City, say∣ing, That they would find but little safety there, amongst a people that hated them. And Orleans said in particular, That he not being able to promise them any thing; they ought to think what a hazard they should run. But these Threats did no good, for being informed how well the people were disposed to receive the King, they were also assured to be made welcome.

The Mareschal de l'Hospitall presently took possession of the Bastile, and of the Arsenal, putting out Louvieres; and order was taken through all the Corners and Streets of the City, that the people might rest quiet: His

Majesty ordered his Parliament at Pontoise, to meet on the Two and twen∣tieth day afterwards, at the Louvre, where he intended himself to lodge; and the King of England, who lived in the Cardinal's Palace, withdrew himself, he moreover writ to the Commonalty, that his Majesty would make his Entry the same Two and twentieth day; that therefore Souldi∣ers should be removed from the Gates, and that all Inhabitants should exer∣cise their Professions; which was speedily done, and all the Guards were ta∣ken off. Madamoiselle was made acquainted that the Duke of Anjou being to lye in her Lodgings at the Louvre, she was to leave them; which she un∣willingly did, retiring to the House provided for extraordinary Embassa∣dours in the Suburbs of St. Germains, near the Duke her Father's House.

On Monday Morning the Parliament met, whither Orleans, Beaufort, Estampes, and other Lords met; President Nesmond told them, He had re∣ceived a Letter from the King, and that the like was sent to every particu∣lar Councellour, willing them to be the next Morning at the Louvre, to understand his Majesties will touching the particular Affairs. Orleans, and twelve other Councellours, said they had received none, which they seem∣ed to resent much, and were greatly abashed, finding that their ends were utterly ruin'd: the business was debated. The King's party being call'd to speak their Opinion, were for the Parliaments Meeting in the Gallery at the Louvre: Those who had received no Letters, knowing thereby that they were in disgrace, opposed it, shewing how harmful such a president might be to the priviledge of Parliament. Nesmond said, The King might keep his Parliament in what place of Paris he pleased; alledging that the like had formerly been done in the time of Henry the 2d. and Henry the 3d. He moreover said, That la Camera delle Vacationi had resolved to carry the Cloth of State, and the King's Seat of Justice into the same Gallery, and that it behoved them to obey; the major part agreeing herein, They resol∣ved to be the next Morning by Sun-rising at the place appointed in red Robes. Yet the Councellours Meusniera, and Refuge, were appointed to ac∣quaint the Chancellour, and Guard de Seaux, how prejudicial this would be to the King's Service, and to their Authority.

The same 21 of October their Majesties, and the whole Court went from St Germains towards Paris, whither about noon came the Chancellour, and Guard de Seaux, and after them, the Presidents Noyon and Cognieux. The King din'd at Ruell, in the Dutchess of Aiguillon's Palace, where he was nobly entertain'd by the said Dutchess; from hence he sent Count No∣get, one who was very zealous in the King's Service, to acquaint the Duke of Orleans with his Majesties coming, and to wish him (as from himself) to meet, and complement his Majesty, assuring him that he should be gra∣tiously received. The Duke was strangely surprised, not thinking that the King would come so unexpectedly to Paris, where the unquiet disposition of those yet remained, who had so much outraged his Authority. He an∣swered the Count coldly, That he askt eight dayes to give his Resolution, since he could not do it without acquainting the Prince of Conde with it, with whom he was ingaged in friendship. The King being come to St. Clous, and hear∣ring no news of the Dukes coming, sent the Duke to say the same thing unto him. His Highness was much beset with two weighty conside∣rations; on the one side he was troubled to think he must deny to pay his due respects to his Nephew the King; on the other side he feared to fail in his friendship to the Prince of Conde, which might make the World doubt whether he did it out of necessity, or out of any other respect: At last he resolved not to go; and it was thought he did it by the advice of the Cardinal de Retz; who thought if the Duke would tarry in Paris, he

might inable him against the Court, by many who depended upon him.

The mean while, the Mareschal de l'Hospitalle, the Provost de Merchants, the Sheriffs, and others, who were met in the Town-House, prepared to meet the King with all Magnificency, and to Welcome him, as became faithful Subjects to do. They met his Majesty with a great number of civil People, besides Magistrates, and Officers, and returned that night with him to Paris; 'twas late ere the King arrived, for he linger'd by the way, expe∣cting Orleans his coming, not thinking it fit to enter the City whilst he was there, or that he would promise to go out the next morning; for it be∣came not Regal Dignity that he should tarry there, without seeing his Ma∣jesty.

He was met by a great number of people, without the Gates, of all Con∣ditions; above 300000 persons came to see his Entry; which he made on Horse-back, accompanyed by the King of England, Prince Thomaso, by a great number of Princes, Dukes, and Mareschals of France, and other Lords, who were then in the City.

The Queen came after the King in Coach, together with the Duke of A•••• jou; she entred by Port St. Honore, and went by the Cardinal's Palace, where the King of great Britain lighted from Horse-back.

His Majesty was met at the Louvre-gate by the Cardinal de Retz, together with a great number of Prelates; at night Fire-works, and Bone-fires were made, the Bells rung, Cannons went off from the Bastile, and Arsenal; and you might read Joy in the Faces of all honest men, for this return, whereby that City was quieted, which had been so m••ch disturbed; and so it did succeed, for his Royal Presence dissipated all turbulent Clouds, as doth the Sun. Some Malecontents said, notwithstanding, that the Court came to Paris only for refuge, That Conde might return who had a great Army; that the design was to raise Impositions, that therefore it behoved them to keep in Arms, and to keep better Guards than b••fore; for the King beguirt the Louvre with Guards, and his Army lay not far off. The night of the King's Arrival, Monsieur Saivin was sent to the Duke of Orle∣ans, to will him from the King to retire to his House at ••imo••••s. He an∣swered somewhat sharply; and Beaufort, who was present, said, That he should contain himself within his Quarters: But they consulted again what Orleans had best to do; some were for his not obeying, but that he should tarry in his House at St. Germain's Suburbs, from whence he could not be so easily driven out by the King's bare Guards; for it was thought the people would not take up Arms against a Prince so near a kin to the King: and be∣sides many Parisians depended yet upon him, and upon others of his Party, whereof Cardinal de Retz was one, and who was much favour'd by the Pa∣risians; he insisted, that if all the well-affected people would repair to those parts, they might withstand the Court, by the help of the Inhabitants of the Suburbs; and that making Conde return with his Army, and with the Spaniards and L••rrainers, it might be, that the King, unwilling to live amongst such confusion upon the foundation of Citizens, who were sub∣ject to change, might return to St. Germains▪ or else, that the business fal∣ling to a Treaty, wherein Retz might become necessary to the Agree∣ment, he might be well with the Court, and assisted by Orleans, might be taken in to have a share in the State Government, which was ••••s main end.

The Duke would not follow this advice, but resolved wisely to obey, and to withdraw the next Morning to Lymours, accompanied by Beau∣fort, and Rohan, and many others of their Party. His Daughter Madamo••∣selle

went also out, and lived at Fargeaux, a Castle of hers, by the Loire, to∣wards Briara.

It was happy for the Court that Orleans would not agree, and that he withdrew from Paris; for the King being now in full Authority, and the Duke refractory, and out of Paris with all his adherents, happy events might easily succeed.

The same day the Parliament met at the Louvre, all save those who had not received particular Letters from the King, which were the Presidents B••llieule, Thou, and Violet▪ the Councellours Brouselle, Salement, Genoa, Pertaile, Brisack, Croysy, Fouquet, Machault, and Martinau; and all of them having their places in the great Hall, near the King's Lodgings, the King being underneath his Cloth of State, said, His Guard de Seaux, should ac∣quaint them with his will; who after a short, and Eloquent Oration upon the present Occurrences▪ acquainted them with Four Declarations; the Re∣union of the Two Parliaments, the general Amnesty, the Prohibition that the Parliament should meddle in nothing but in things Civil and Criminal, according to Law▪ and the Names of those who by the King's orders were to withdraw, which were the fore-named, who had received no particular Letters from the King; to whom Councellour Bitaut was added, who by mistake had a Letter sent him, all these were willed to withdraw; as also Beaufort, Ro••an, Rochefaucau••, Frontailles, Bulley, Penis, the Domesticks of Conde, and of the Dutchess of Longueville, President Per••ult, the Wives, Children, and Domesticks of all that served then under the Princes, and in any Towns held by them, as well in Guienne, as elsewhere; who were not to return to Paris without the King's leave; it being laid to their charge, That they were those who had alwayes subverted the Parliament, and made the People seditious. Express Orders were also made against all things con∣tained in the third Declaration.

The Queen of England, and the Dutchess of Chevereux went the same day to visit the Dutchess of Orleans, who s••aid in Paris by reason that she was with Child; to whom Chever••ux said in the Queen of France her Name, That her Highness had leave ••o stay in her Palace, or to go whither she plea∣sed.

The Dutchess was very much affected with the novelty of this Action, and answered modestly, That she could not abandon the Duke her husband; and th•••• not being able to do otherwise, in the condition she was in, she would be carried in Mens Arms; but she did not so, for she had express Orders from her Husband, not to hazard her self being so near her being brought to bed, as she was some few dayes after, of a Daughter.

Prince Thomaso went to visit her; and said, That he was never of opinion that the Duke should go from Court▪ whereunto if he would have come, he should have been received with all cordial Affection by their Majesties.

But because it was not thought fit to suffer so conspicuous a Prince to re∣main an Enemy to the King, Duke Anuille was sent to him to Limours on Wednesday, to Treat of Agreement▪ wherein the King desiring that Ma∣zarine might be comprehended, nothing was done. The Duke was re∣solute never to be reconciled to him, nor never to come at Court whilst ••e was at the Helm of Government; for all things else he would have comply'd with the King.

A while after Secretary Tilliere, and some others, went to win him over, but they could not prevail; at last, having acquainted Conde with what had past, to whom he sent Camp-master Godovi••••, and being answered, That he agreed with him in all things; it was agreed, That he should go 〈◊〉〈◊〉 quietly at Bloyse; that he should send for his Forces from Conde's Army, and

joyn them to those of the King; on Condition that they should not be im∣ploy'd against the Prince, to whom professing himself a friend, he could not fail him in any whatsoever condition. The Duke's Affairs being thus adjusted, he perform'd what was agreed upon, and withdrew himself wholly from the care of the World, applying himself to live quietly, and free from trouble. Beaufort retired to Vandosme, and all the others that were banisht went to their Country-houses, mightily grieved, and much more mortified that Mazarine should triumph over their Miseries.

President Nesmond, and Councellour Vedau propounded the meeting of le Chambers of Requests, to think how they might protect their companions, who were in disgrace, saying, They would rather quit their Imployments, than suffer such a prejudice. But the major part being of another Opinion, the Chambers met not; and Nesmond being sent for to Court, received a sharp reprehension, accompanied with some Threats, which were afterwards put in execution, for he and Vedau were exil'd, as well as the rest. Some were unwilling to go from Paris, but were forc't, for fear of greater violence; only Brousels, being old, and poor, and wanting a Country-house, went not from Paris, but kept conceal'd there, fomented by his Neighbours, who did not only desire him not to go, but promised to defend him against all Violence: He constantly affirm'd, He feared nothing, for he was guilty of nothing; that if the Court desired his Life, let them take it, for he va∣lued not Life now, that he had one foot in the Grave, which commonly gave life to good Mens praises. These Expressions wrought upon the hearts of many Men, whose minds were not yet quiet.

Many people, and in particular the Letters of Lodgings came before the King, whereof there are an innumerable number in Paris, telling his Ma∣jesty, That they had got nothing during his Majestie's absence, wherefore they desired his Majesty that he would absolve them from what was due by them to their Land-lords, at our last Lady-day, and Mid-summer; Their Land-lords opposed it, affirming, That that was their Livelyhood, and that their Allegations were false; for most of those that complained had got more in the time of War, than in Peace; Wars making all things lawful in troublesome times.

The King had respect to their Demands, and granted six Months abate∣ment to all that let Lodgings, and to all Artificers, who could not work, for want of venting their Ware; but as for those who during the War, had made advantage of their Merchandise, as Bakers, Butchers, Armor∣rours, and such like, he declared, That they should pay. Orders were afterwards given for the Civil Government of the City; for to assure them∣selves of Paris, was to please the people; which having succeeded happily by their means, who govern'd when the Court was under Hatches, it was little less than miraculous, to see their fury cease so soon, of themselves, and to see the scorn of a multitude mittigated, who boasted, That they would maintain their extravagancies, though the Frondeurs were broken, though the Parliament should be obedient, the boldest sort of people con∣founded, and though his Majesty should Triumph more by Justice, and Innocency, than by Force and Power.

Whilst Affairs went thus at Paris, extravagancies continued in Bour∣deaux. The Councel of the Olmiera had amongst other things, past a De∣cree, That all Castles, and Towers in places neer the City should be slight∣ed; and particularly that the Walls of the Castle of Budose should be thrown down, which was seated on high upon the Banks of the River Chiron, which coming from the Sanda, falls into Garomne over against Ca∣dilliack; this place being inviron'd by strong antient Towers upon the

Walls, was surprised by a Captain of Horse, of Baltazar's Regiment, who put it and himself afterwards into the King's Service.

The Prince of Conti to favour the Councellour Spagnet, took upon him to preserve it, to which purpose he desired the favour of the Olmiere; who met often to advise whether or no they should gratifie Conty; some were for the yea, some for the nay; but having no mind to content Spagnet, nor yet to displease Conty, they sought how not to satisfie the one, and yet not dis∣content the other: but as it often proves that the occasion proves worse than the effect, they unadvisedly fell to dismantle the Walls of the Castle of Ha in Bourdeaux, and to commit divers insolencies in the City. Conty was surprised at the Rabbles strange, and licentious darings, but finding the peoples rage grow too hot, he fought how to asswage it, spinning that out at length which he could not hastily procure; at last he did a little mo∣derate their fury, and kept the great Tower from being demolished.

The Parliament, though Frondeurs, were no less astonished at the Olmie∣ra's rash attempt; whilst Command being sweet, they thought it hard that their Authority should be eclipsed by the popularity, which they formerly had worshipped: They therefore thought it good to dissipate this new uni∣on as soon as might be; which by unlawful pretences went about to dero∣gate from the Parliaments Authority, and to strengthen themselves by the Authority of the Princes, who to become grateful to the people, sought to satisfie them; so as the great Frondeurs grew more incensed; and not con∣tented with an Assembly, wherein every Sabboth-day the Finances were treated of, and where Gurguel was Chair-man; they listned to Proposals made by more mature, and well-minded Citizens; and agreed how to sur∣prise the place of the said Olmiere's meeting, which sometimes was not very well guarded. At this time Father Berteau a Franciscan, was at Bourdeaux, sent thither by the Queen, who was often seen with the Rector of St. Peters, who was well affected to his Majestie's Service, and reverenced by all Men for his singular Piety.

He shew'd him how great a shame it was, that the scum of People should give Laws to so famous a City, so full of gallant Free-men; how that nei∣ther for▪ Conscience nor Honour they were not to withdraw themselves from lawful Obedience, and to submit to the yoke of Slavery: all the Coun∣cellours were almost of the same Opinion; either for that they were weary of their past extravagancies, which had brought them to a Precipice, or for that they envy'd the increase of the Olmiest's Authority, which drew unto them the liberality of the Princes, and Spaniards. They therefore conspired to destroy the Olmiere; whereof the chief men were, Duratesta, Villars, Giraut, and others. Maisot, who at first was a great Frondeur, ac∣quainted Blanc, Mauvesine, Tarang, and Mirate with the business; they agreed all to get as many arm'd Men as they could into their Houses, where∣with to surprise the Publick House. This Maisot, by his Wives means, who was very devout, had an inckling of some things that he was to do by the Rector of St. Peters, and Father Bertaut: He was likewise promis'd to have the Parliament Re-establish't with advantagious Conditions, if he could re∣duce Bourdeaux to its former Obedience. But he, who had an unquiet spi∣rit, glib tongue, talking indiscreetly with every Citizen, afforded matter of a suggestion, which was made by some of the Olmiere, (whereof Lande B••••ratino, and St. Angelo, were two) to slay the chief of that Councel at a Banquet, which was to be made them by Iurate Robert; Maisot promis'd them 1500. double Pistolets, to be paid unto them by Rux, a rich Citizen, if the business were effected.

One thousand five hundred Men were therefore placed behind the publick

House, to make themselves Masters of it, and to ••ry through the Streets, Vive ••e Parliament, and were to carry the heads of the chief Olmerists, who were to be slain at the said invitation, upon the heads of their Pikes. But L••••de, and St. Angelo••e accused Maisot before the Prince of Conty; who causing him to be brought unto him by Villars, told him, He had discove∣red his Practices; Maisot said, He would prove himself to be an honest Man, and went to the Hall of Justice; where being questioned by Sault▪ the Vi∣car-General, touching what he and others had plotted against the Life of the Prince of Co••••y, to betray the City; he answered, That for any attempt against the Prince his person, be put it to the Vicar-General•••• Conference, whether he had ever dream•••• of any such thing, or no; but that he did confess, That to free his Country, and the Parliament from being opprest by the Olmiere, he had conspi∣red▪ and had listned to Proposals which were made, of killing the chief Men of that Faction: Having said this, he was led to the Common Hall, where fearing that the inraged Multitude might kill him, the Prince of Conty, left the Captain of his Guard there with divers Souldiers. The good Citizens were sorry to see disorders increase, so as advising dayly amongst themselves what they were best to do, they could find no better way, then to seem as if they would joyn with the Olmerists, and so coming into the Common Hall, under colour of Friendship, to drive out the Ol••••rists, and then do as occasion should serve: Upon this occasion above a hundred of the ablest Merchants met upon the Exchange, making as if they did so to subscribe the Union; but at the instant of effecting it, they were betray'd by their Consuls, who acquainting the Princes with the Plot, Co••••t More was sent by them to hinder it; but he being confused amongst the indiscreet Multi∣tude, Conty himself got on Horse-back, and by his presence made the Mer∣chants return to the Exchange, whether Monsieur L••net coming, h•• beg••n to drink the Prince's Health to the people, and appeased the Tumult.

The Consuls who betray'd the Merchants, discover'd that the Rector of St. Peters, had the chief hand in these Affairs, accusing him moreover of having made a Sermon a little before to the people, exhorting them to put an end to their vexations, by reconciling themselves to God, and the King, who offer'd Peace. The Olmiere were so incens••d hereat, as they went one night to his House to make him Prisoner; when they came in they found him on his knees, praying before a Crucifix, and without any respect taking his Writings from him, they delivered him to Villars, to carry him to pri∣son: His Servant going into the Street, acquainted some of the chief In∣habitants with it, who sounding to Arms, all the neighbourhood arm'd themselves; the Olmerist ran away, and the Rector saved himself, and kept himself a while concealed, not slackning his good intentions, nor forbear∣ing to Treat sometimes with one, sometimes with another, secretly, how to to bring his Country to Peace, and to make the Princes either to accept of the King's Amnesty, or to go elsewhere.

Marsine return'd this mean while from Peregort, (having quarter'd his Forces there) as well to remedy this Novelty, as to keep the Dutchess of Longueville from going from Bourdeaux; for she falling out with the Prince her brother, was about to withdraw, and to accept of the Amnesty. The occasion of these distasts, were, for that Conde had suffer'd Guionet, M••∣rigny, and other of his Favourites, to use licentious Actions, and Words, which were prejudicial to her Authority, taking the Government of Affairs from her, and her brother Conty, which did in right belong unto them.

In this interim the Court had sent the Marquess of Ch••••b••ret to Bourde∣aux, Son to the late General of the Burdelois, who was slain at the Action

before Libourne, whose presence, both in Memory of his Father, and for his own worth, was thought might have been acceptable to the people: He did notwithstanding insinuate himself into the O••••erists, and found credit with them; so as the Prince of Cont•• growing jealous that he might make him∣self Head of that Faction, to the prejudice of his Authority, though he seemed willing to depend upon him, did under colour of honouring him, offer him the Command of a Brigade in the Country, and good Winter∣Quarters, that he might keep him from Bourdeaux; and the same time fra∣med a Complaint against him by the means of one called Pesche, one of the chiefest of the Seditious, who m the Olmiere accused him of Treason; Cham∣beret who thought himself wrongfully calumniated began to make an up∣roar; whereupon Conti taking pretence that such contentions ought to be obviated, made Chamberet retire, and the Princes, and Olmerists began to manage their Affairs with more circumspection; their distrust of the people did afterward so encrease, as that the Princes were more intent to keep themselves from Conspiracies, than to manage War against the King.

But to return to Catalonia, those of Barcellona desired to do somewhat which might facilitate their desired succour; wherefore they resolved to fall upon the Fort Rey, which the Spaniards had built upon Mongeuick. Don Iusippe di Pinos•• was destin'd hereunto, who put himself in order present∣ly; and taking 400 Commanded Foot along with him, and 100 Horse, went privately out on the 16th of Iuly by night, and undiscovered by the Ene∣my, entred the Mountain, from whence joyning with Cavalier Austrin, and Monsieur Varron, he advanced, having forc'd the Palisadoes, past the Di••ch, and made so gallant an Assault, as the Spaniards, not able to resist the French, they were forc'd to yield; at the noise whereof the Horse which were quartered at Sans beat to Arms, and squadronized themselves near the Fort St. Francis: The Catalonians, who were march'd out with 2000 Musquetiers, and 600 Horse, made their Foot retreat to Fort Mon∣g••uick, and their Horse into the Trenches; which the Spaniards observing, and arguing some weakness, or stratagem by this sudden Retreat, they ad∣vanc'd to from whence the Frenchmen were gone; whereby dividing the Fort from the City, they fiercely assaulted it, which Cavalier Austrin de∣fended valiantly, and was slain there; Seignior Iayot succeeded him, defend∣ing himself no less valiantly, repulst the Enemies second Assault, and forc'd them to retreat with some loss: But they kept their first Station still, where whilst they should keep, they were likelier to take it by Famine, than Force, for they within had but one days Victuals.

Mareschal della Motta being very sorry to hear that his men were retreated from their Station, before he had provided necessaries for them; and there being no other way to save it but by opening the Pass, and conveying in Vi∣ctuals, he resolved to do it himself: And though he was not yet well healed of his wound, yet he caused himself to be carried in a Chair to Fort Mon∣ge••••••; and sent away twenty Souldiers, with each of them a sack of Bisket on their backs, that they might relieve it on the side next the Sea, whilst Marquess Marcelly should endeavour to get in on the other side with 500 Horse. But the Spaniards being advertised of all things by such Catalonians as were their friends, they doubled their Guard where Marcelly was to pass, and placed a good Body of Foot on the other side of the Mountain, to keep those from entring on the other side, who carried the Bisket; the Mareschal Commanded Captain Leonardo, a Catalonian, to see whether he could get in with 40 Horse, with each of them a sack of Biscot en croupe: But the Fort having neither bread nor water, Capitulated before he came, to surrender

upon good Warlike Conditions, which were not observed afterwards. For some Spaniards giving out that there was a Mine within the Fort which was to play, the Horse fell upon these poor people, and not listning to any thing, ••lew some of them, took some Prisoners, whilst but a few escaped by those craggy Mountains. When that was heard at Barcellon••, it put them all in fear, as well for the extravagancie of the News, as for the moan which was made by the Parents of the dead; the loss was great, which had it been foreseen, and had the Fort been Victuall'd, the Passes might have been kept open, and the City maintain'd. But were it either negligence or treachery in the Catalonians, who as it was known afterwards, held ••ntelligence with the Spaniards, the Error was unexcusable, for it ruin'd all the rest.

Cervera was in no less danger thon Bellaguer had been; but the Ammuni∣tion and Artillery of the French being in that Town, Marquess St. Andrea went thither, and fortunately preserved it: But because it was impossible to preserve the Fort St. Peter in his absence, he by Order from the Mareschal caused it to be burnt, and went himself to Villa Franca, where he could not tarry for want of Bread.

The General resolved again to make a general Assault upon the Spanish Camp; he acquainted St. Andrea with it, that he might draw near the Line; in order hereunto St. Andrea came on the 9th of August to Pal••ve not far from the Enemies Camp; but finding neither Victuals, nor any thing that was promis'd him, fit to make an Assault, after he had tarried there three weeks, he undertook to Assault la Montagna St. Ierolino, being recruited with 1500 armed Country people, and 400 Pioneers. He appointe•• to do it by night, on the 4th of September; but did not do it: For the Gui•••••• had not brought his men to the place appointed in a fit time; so it was deferr'd: and it was well it was so, for those of the City had not receiv'd the Signes of his arri∣val. The next day he gave out Orders to all in Writing, and his Forces marcht that night towards St. Reale, to fall upon the Spanish Trenches on that side: But the Horse that were led on by Monsieur d•• Alleigre loitered so long, as the last Squadrons came not thither till it was day; when those that were upon the Guard at St. Reale hearing the noise, gave an Alarm: St Andrea finding the day draw near, made the Assault; and his Foot falling headlong on, won the Line near a little fortified House, where the Spaniards repulst the French. Some silly People would have taken the Fort that was near the House, but were forc'd to retreat.

The French kept the Line they had taken till it was day, thinking that those of Barcellona should have come out according to Agreement; which they did not till the Sun was up: when the Spaniards finding there was no danger of losing the Fort, fell upon those that were come out of the City▪ and beat them back to the Town Gates, with the loss of some Officers▪ and di∣vers Souldiers; so St. Andrea was forced to return to his former Quar∣ters.

Cavallier della Ferriera, a well-experienced Seaman, was already gone with his Ships, without attempting to relieve the City, nor would he tarry three days till the Assault might be given; so as the Spaniards might easily land some Souldiers out of their Ships, and use them, which they to their advantage did.

The Court of France was no less troubled with the keeping of Cassalle in Monferrat, a Place of greater importance, than of Barcellon••; the Spaniards who know how to make use of favourable conjunctures, prepar'd at the same time to fall upon that place; which wanted Mony▪ Victuals, and Com∣manders in Chief. The King writ to Mareschal de la Motte, to send St. An∣drea's Forces presently to Piemonte, not having then conveniencie to provide

for it elsewhere, but so as he might leave Barcellona in a posture not to be lost for some time: towards the relief whereof the same Ferriere had 15000. double Pistols given him, wherewith he was to Rigg out Twelve Frigats, whereby to bring all things necessary to the besieged City, whereinto little Barks entred ever and anon with some Victuals, from the neighbouring Coasts.

This order for marching into Piemonte, was kept concealed from the su∣perintendent Alligre; but being smelt out by the Officers, they thought it was done to cosen them; wherefore they together with the Commander of the Cavalry desired that they might come out of those miseries, which were grown insupportable in Catalonia, threatning to do it themselves, if it were denied them. Monsieur Alligre, (not the aforesaid superintendent, but another of the same name) who led the Horse in their March towards Gariga, treated hereof with St. Andrea, and protested together with the Officers, that they would tarry in Catalonia no longer then the 15th of Sep∣tember, relying upon Promises which had been made them, and they spoke as if they were jealous that this St. Andrea held Intelligence with La Motte, and cared not though they should all perish, who were now reduced to 500. Horse, and 200. Foot.

They therefore came to Gariga, where the Horse-Officers had often Meet∣ings with the Foot, to Treat how they might be gone without Andrea's knowledge; who being therefore inform'd by the Horse-Captains of Boi∣sack's and Rivalet's Regiments, sent for the Commander Ferra, and for a Commander of ••••ince Maurice of Savoy, who were his particular Friends, and Confidents, and desired them to keep their Souldiers obedient, and those of Boisack, and the others of his own Regiment, which were more in number, and more considerable: These promis'd to do their best, but went from their word the next Morning, saying, They could not force the wills of the other Officers, and Souldiers, who were extraordinarily incensed. An∣drea went to Alligre, and desired him to keep his Forces from departing till the 15th of that Moneth, as they had promised, that he might give no∣tice thereof to La Motte, who was in Barcellona; who with much a••o, said, He would.

St. Andrea returned to his Quarters, and whilst he was about to go to Gironne to Treat with the superintendents d' Alleigre and Pinose how the For∣ces might be diverted from their Resolution, Alleigre with divers other Of∣ficers came in hast to him, to acquaint him, that the Souldiers would not be quieted, but went from their Word: the General made them contented to tarry three dayes; and he went himself to a certain Castle to speak with Pi∣nose; by whose Approbation he sent Monsr. Clerg, superintendent of the Victu∣als, to receive the King's original Letters from superintendent Aleigre, that he might shew them to the Souldiery, and convince them that the Orders were conditional, and not such as they imagined: He carried a Commissio∣ner of Horse, and another of Foot, to be Eye-witnesses that he did not this to deceive them, but that things might go well.

The Marquess gave out, that it would be two dayes before he would re∣turn, but he dispatch't his business so as he return'd the same night; which made the Soulders believe he meant to stop them, wherefore about mid-night they went towards Gironne; St. Andrea being mightily discontented here∣at, went presently to Gironne, carrying his Equippage with him, because he knew not where to leave it safe. The Inhabitants hearing that the Souldi∣ers had revolted, stopt him in the City, saying, That he being a Hugonote, it might be he held some Intelligence contrary to the King's Service. He was much troubled hereat, not so much that he was cross'd in applying reme∣dies

to this evil, as that he was branded with a Title that the Hughenots had no ways deserved; for during all these Troubles, none had been more obe∣dient and faithful to the King than they. The Marquess supposing that Alei∣gre had been the occasion of all this Disorder, sent an Order to him in Wri∣ting, to discharge him from medling any more in Command, and to forbid the Officers to obey him.

But since being stopt in Girone, he could not by his presence bring such Re∣medies as were necessary to stop an incensed and jealous People, and fearing least the Souldiers might commit some Insolencies in their march to the Country people, the revenge whereof might fall upon him, he the next night slipt down the Wall, and went away, leaving his Baggage, and di∣vers Officers in the City, and marched towards his men, who were advan∣ced three Leag••es; he found his own Regiment not far off, which tarried for him. From whence he sent a Trumpet to Girone, complaining of their usage, and demanding his Baggage, and the freedom of his Officers, and Servants, or else he would be revenged. The Baggage was presently restored; they excused what they had done, and asked pardon for it.

The News of this sudden and unexpected Revolt of the Forces in Catolonia, which happened when the Court was in the greatest disorder, did not only discompose the Besieged Barcellonians, but all other Places that were for the King; and did much afflict the Court, and finding the loss of that Place ir∣repairable, and therewith the like of the whole Province; the preservation whereof had cost France so much Gold, and weakned the best Forces of her Armies; but to take some order for this, the King desired Marquess Plessis Belliere, Lieutenant-General of St. Onge, to set aside all other things, and march with some of his Forces presently into Guienne, and joyn with Har∣court, and go from thence to relieve Barcellona, unless the Count should like better to go thither himself, and leave the Marquess to Command the Forces in Guienne.

As soon as he had received this Order, he went to Rochel, to take his leave of the Duke of Vendosme, who was come thither a little before with his Fleet; and having acquainted him with what Orders he had received, the Duke prest him much to stay, till an Express should return whom he had sent to Court. But the Marquess being unwilling to be put to give an Account of any bad Accident which might happen by his delay, took his leave of the Duke, and marched thitherward. And hearing by the way that Harcourt was gone from Guienne, he sent to Court to know in this case what he should do; and the mean while advanced to Aubeterre, the Master whereof had a little before turn'd to the Prince's Party. Being come near to Perigorde, he heard that Marsin was come to oppose him with all his Forces, to stop his pas∣sage, and to fight him. The Marquess, though he were inferiour to the Ene∣my in Horse, would not give back, but resolved to meet him, and give him Battle: He quartered near a place called La Valette, from whence he march∣ed to Rochbeaucourt, where he foorded the River, and prepared to fight; which as soon as Marsin heard, he presently retreated to Libourne, leaving the whole Country free for the King's Forces, except some Towns and Castles whereinto he had put Garrisons to incommodate the Enemy in his march.

Brantosme, a little City well fortify'd with strong old Walls, seated upon the Drogne, and which as yet had received no Garrison, but pretended Neu∣trality, sent Commissioners to the Marquess, desiring him that he would permit her to remain Neuter still; but he answered, He came not to capitulate with the Kin'gs Subjects; that he would treat them as such if they would obey, otherwise he knew what he had to do: Whereupon they sent to present him with the Keys

of the Gates. So on the 18th of September he past the River Lisle without obstacle, under the Castle Bories, which yielded as he past by, as did also L••r∣demesia, though it were Garrison'd by the Prince's men; and meeting here with Marquess Saufbeufe, Lieutenant-General of Guienne, and with Monsieur Crequi, with 400 Horse, he foorded over the Drogona; he then called Count Illebone, Marquess Saufbeuf, and the other Officers of the Guienne Army to Councel, Whom he acquainted with what Orders he had received, and desired part of their Forces: They excused themselves, saying, They were not sent to him▪ but to Harcourt; That the Regiments, which were to go, were not specified; nay▪ that his Orders were to take only such as had their Winter-quarters paid, whereof they had received little or none, and that they had received no other Orders from his Majesty since Harcourt's departure; wherefore he might do well to send to Court for more precise Oorders; as was forthwith done: That moreover he should wish Monsieur Tracy, in Mont Alban to provide Monyes to pay the Souldiers in Cata∣lonia; and that in the interim he would go about to reduce all those Towns to their Obedience, which were in these convultions revolted.

Which things being agreed upon, Plessis Belliere, marched on the 24th of September to Beaumont, which had refused to receive in Marquess Saufbeuf, which he took; from thence he sent to another little City (which Saufbeuf had besieged three or four days) wishing the Inhabitants to yield, and to drive out the Prince's Garrison, which they prepared to do: But a Captain who commanded there, withdrew with 50 Foot into the Belfrey, saying, That he and all his would die there, rather than yield: Wherefore they blew it up, burying all that were in it in the rubbidge, except the Captain, who though he were covered six foot deep with rubbidge, was taken out alive and seven other Souldiers.

This Example terrified most of the Towns which were in Rebellion, so as one after another, they all swore Allegiance.

Yet St. Pastore a little ungarrison'd-Town stood out, which made Plessis Belliere, send Cavalier Crequi thither, with part of his Horse to reduce it; but were it either that those Townsmen had dealt hardly with the King's Souldiers when they retreated from the Siege of Villa Nova Agenois, or that they themselves had indammag'd the Neighbouring parts, they refused all offers, kept them out, threatning to shoot if they came nearer. The next morning Plessis Belliere went thither himself with 400 Foot, 200 Horse, and two small Guns. He used fair means first, but in vain; after three or four shot of the Artillery, some of the affrighted Inhabitants came forth to de∣mand mercy, offering to open the Gates; but as they re-entred the City, one of the Heads of the People with some others, made opposition, and be∣gan to shoot at the King's men; which obliged the General to dig a Mine un∣der a Tower, whereat the Defendants being terrified, their Courage failed, and they call'd for mercy, which they obtain'd; only the Chief of the Sedi∣tious was hang'd.

The same day that Plessis Belliere went to St. Pastour, Count Ilabone, and Marquess Saufbeufe went with some Horse to Lauson, to know if the Master of the Place had received a Garrison of the Princes; at which time Monsieur Monpullion, one of the contrary Party, was come thither with a con∣siderable Body of Horse besides the Garrison, who hearing of the coming of the King's men, fell upon them at unawares, and forced them to re∣treat.

This News coming to Plessis Belliere just as he parted from St. Pastour, for∣ced him to make use in his passage of Castle Montbahus, scituate upon a rise of some consideration, whereinto those of the neighbouring part had re∣moved all their moveables; this Castle belonged to the aforesaid Count Lau∣son;

who hearing what was past, made Plessis Belliere acquainted with the wrongs which he had received by what had befaln his Town; saying, That he was the King's faithful Servant; and that the fear of Marquess Saufbeufe, who was his particular Enemy, had forced him to receive in the Prince's Garrison; to witness the which, he offered to put out the said Garrison; and in case the Comman∣der thereof should refuse, he offerr'd to open him a Gate, provided that he would protect him from Saufbeuf's threats; and he did really drive out the Garrison within two days, and the General gratiously put him in possession of his Castle.

All the Troops marcht from thence to St. Basil near Marmande, wherein were the Regiments of Conti and Galapian, who had been worthily to be praised, had they done that for their King, which they did against his Ser∣vice; for they defended themselves stoutly, and had never yielded had not necessity forced them, after having sustain'd the Siege twelve days; this place being taken, the King••s men past over the River, and marched towards Montalban, where the Souldiers were to receive their Pay, and then to march for Catalonia.

This was what was done in Guienne after Harcourt's Retreat, and whilst Barcellona was daily more and more straitned, and re-iterated her desires of succour, whereof she needed the effects more than the hopes, which were continually given her: But Force wanting through the iniquity of the time, which put all in confusion, all things languished. Wherefore the Spaniards, who knew all this, did not only continue this famous Siege, but imploy'd themselves in the taking of divers Towns which the French had in that Prin∣cipallity. They took all the Towns which stand along the Sea, from Pala∣mose to Barcellona, thereby bereaving the besieged City of that small relief which was brought from thence by night in little Boats, as hath been said.

When it was known in Barcellona that the Court had given order that the Guienne Army should march into Catalonia, it was thought fit by a Councel of War, that Don Iuseppe Marguerit, with divers other Catalonians should go into Rosiglion, where by their valour and knowledge of the Country, they might ••acilite the relief from France: In order whereunto, he went on the Second of October in a Feluca out of the Town, and past with no lit∣tle danger through the Spanish Fleet by night, and came to Begur near Pala∣mose, from thence he went to Armentera, to find out Marquess della Farai Governour of Roses, and Baron d' Ales, Commander of the Cavalery, to confer touching the Victualling Roses, which was in great need thereof. From whence he went to Girona, whither Marquess Mortara was come, where he tarried three days, to convey some Victuals into Roses, as he did, and then went with Baron d' Ailes to Perpignian, thinking to have found Plessis Belliere there, that they might joyntly indeavor to relieve the afflicted Country. But he was quite discouraged when he found he was not there, nor heard no news of his coming yet a while: yet in this his coming thither was good; for he discovered that Thomaso Bagnol, Governour of Rosiglion, under colour of besieging his Enemy Doctor Sagara in Sardinnia, had raised a Mili∣tia in that Country, intending to betray the French, and to surprise Per∣pignan.

When Marguerit was gone from Girona, Marquess Mortara came thither and took it without much opposition, as also all the other Castles and Towns thereabouts; wherefore Barcellona having no hope of relief, and compell'd by Famine, Marquess della Motta, by consent of the Governours, and of all the Commanders, on the Eleventh of October agreed with Don Iohn of Austria, upon these Articles, which we will here recite; since it is a City of such im∣portance;

and in the loss whereof so many other consequences did concur, as for what may hereafter happen, it will not be displea••ing to relate upon what Conditions it returned to the obedience of its first Master.

His Highness agreed, That the Mareschal de la Motte, Lieutenant-General to the most Christian King, together with all the Lieutenant-Generals, Camp-Mare∣schals, Officers and Soldiers, and all other Persons of whatsoever Nation, Quality, or Condition, who would willingly follow the said Garrison, might march out unmo∣lested with their Arms and Baggage; to wit, the Foot with Drums beating, Cou∣lours flying, Bullets in Mouth, Match lighted at both ends, with six Pieces of Artil∣lery, three great ones, and three little ones, such as belonged to the King of France, with three thousand weight of Powder, three thousand weight of Lead, four thou∣sand weight of Match; and that the Souldiers of whatsoever Nation that had gone from one side to another, might not be molested: As for the Horse, They were to march out with Trumpets sounding, Coulours display'd, Arms and Baggage, Warlike Ammunition, with all Horses and Mules that had been taken, without it were such as had been taken 24 hours before the Capitulations should be subscribed.

That all Persons of whatsoever Birth, Quality, or Condition, as well Ecclesia∣stical as Secular might be permitted to go out with the same Equipage; journeying with all Moveables, Goods, and Baggage, without molestation, nor that any one should pretend to recover any of the said Moveables, Confiscations, or things taken, till within 24 hours of subscribing these Articles; and that such as could not carry their Goods or Moveables along with them, might leave them to be sold by whom they pleased within six months, and have a Pasport for conveying the monies safe∣ly into France, or elsewhere, where the owners should be; and also that they might call in any Monies or Debts that they had in Banck at Barcellona, or in any other place within six Months space. That the Mareschal la Motta should cause it to be proclaimed 24 hours before he marched out, that none should carry out any Move∣ables which were not his own, or did not belong to some of the Company; and that if any fraud should be found herein, they might be recovered within the aforesaid six Months. That all the Inhabitants of Catalonia of what Quality or Condition, that would retire into France, might enjoy the same Conditions with those of Bar∣cellona.

That all Prisoners of all sides which were taken after the War began in Catalo∣nia, should be s••t free without Ransom, to wit, those that were in Catalonia, Ros∣siglion, or Cordona

That his Higness should agree, That any French Barks, or those of any other Nation that were in the Haven, or Wharf of Barcellona, might sayl out when their Masters should please, and go into France uninjured: But on condition that they should not carry away any Artillery or any Warlike Ammunition, save such as abovesaid: That the French and those of other Nations should go out by St. An∣thonies-Gate; that they should go the first day to St. Fileau, the second to Marte∣reile, the third to Pieere, where they should tarry one day; the fifth to Igolaude, the sixth to Capoux, the seventh to Calat, the eighth to Linalinge, the ninth to Pont, where they staid one day; the eleventh to Folke, Monmagaltre, and Co••il∣ly, the twelfth to Coques, the thirteenth to Pouplo, the fourteenth to Sot, the fif∣teenth to Libournes, the sixteenth to Esteris, where they might tarry one day; the eighteenth to Louer, the nineteenth they were to pass over, Sailack, or Piere Blan∣ca, and to go into France: That the Commander of these Troops might make his Marches longer or shorter as he pleased: That he should have a Convey of an 100. Horse, to bring them to the Bay of France; and that his Highness should furnish both Horse and Foot with Victuals and necessary Monies for their Voyage.

That no Officer, nor Souldier might be detained for Debt; Carriages, Mules, and Horses might be provided for the Cannon, Baggage, Ammunition; for such

as were Sick or Wounded; and that the Sick, or Wounded that should be left be∣hind in Catalonia, should be sent into France when they were well.

That Mareschal de la Motta, the Lieutenant Generals, Camp-Master, and aforesaid others, going out of Barcellona with their Arms, Ammunition, and Baggage by Port St. Anthony, the Spanish Army should be put into Battalia, on the side of the Gate Lanye, and that his Highness should have Notice of this, the night before; that the Hostages for performance of publick Faith, should be sent to Roses, and delivered to the Governour, or to him who should Command in his absence, who should keep them, till he should be assured by Letter from the Com∣mander of the Garrison in Barcellona, that all the Forces were arrived in France; and that the Governour of Roses should acquaint the Governour of the said Garri∣son when the said Hostages should be come; which were to be Don Carlo d'Ara∣gon, one Horse Captain, and two Captains of Foot.

That the Hostages, when these Articles should be perform'd, should be sent into France by the Rode-way that leads to Rosillion, with a Pasport and Guide; as also all Prisoners that were in the power of the King of Spain in Catalonia, their Bread, and Tappe being paid for by the King of Spain till they should come into France; and as for the Garrison of the Castle, and City of Cardona, it should joyn with that of Barcellona, at Callis.

That as soon as these Articles were subscribed, the Souldiers of the Garrison should be furnished with Bread for as long as they should tarry in the City; and that they should March out on the Twelfth of October; and that though within that time the Town should be Victuall'd either by Sea or Land, the Articles should not∣withstanding be observed, unless it were a Royal Succour, or the quantity of 10000. Quarters of Corn.

That no War-like Ammunition should be taken from the Magazines: That Mareschal de la Motta should cause all the Artillery that were in the aforesaid pla∣ces, as also those that were in Montegivick, or elsewhere, belonging to the Catho∣lick King, to be deliver'd unto Don Joyan Pallavesino, General of the Spanish Ar∣tillery.

That his Higness, and Mareschal de la Motta, should promise to observe and keep all these Articles, without any reservation.

Affairs being thus adjusted, about 2700. French and Swisser's Foot, all choise and veteran Souldiers, and 800. Horse, with 700. Catalonian Foot, Marcht out of Barcellona the next day after Dinner, and about 200. Offi∣cers, and Voluntiers of that City, and Principallity; they went by the way appointed, towards the Perineans, to go for Rosillion, which they did, observing their Articles punctually.

The Crown of France was very sensible of the loss of this City, which was followed by many other Towns, and almost by that whole Principallity, in the preservation whereof so much Treasure, and so many People had been lost.

The taking of Barcellona fill'd the Spaniards with vast pretences, and made them aspire after greater things. By this loss the French were the more in∣cited to revenge, and to raise greater Forces to maintain the punctillio of Ho∣nour.

The taking of Barcellona was at first sight a sweet bit to the Spaniards, but of bitter digestion; for they did not only consume the flower of their Ma∣litia in so long a Siege, but spent so immense a some of Money, as the gain might be rather held destructive, than advantageous; for the Catalonians being naturally bitter Enemies to the Castelians, the latter were obliged to keep their Armies entire, to guard themselves rather against their own Sub∣jects, than against their Enemies; and as Catalonia was judged by many, to be

one of the worst acquisitions that ever the French made, so was the recovery thereof ascribed by many to the ruine of Spain.

Whilst Affairs past thus in Catalonia, Plessis Belliere was come to Agen, whither Monsieur Trassy came to speak with him, and promis'd to see the Forces paid that were design'd for Catalonia according to the Court•• intenti∣on; and soon after Orders being brought by Monsr. Nevile, one of the King's Gentlemen, who came thither on the 5th of November, those that were to March were immediately divided from the rest; and the Marquess marcht with those that were designed for Catalonia, who had part of the Pay that was due, paid upon the place, and were promis'd the rest at their coming to Mont Alban.

There was much ado to make them resolve upon this Voyage; the Cap∣tains and Officers met together, and writ things of dangerous consequence to the Generals; but at last Cavallier Crequi, and Marquess Bellefons, who were to be Field-Mareschals of this Army, having assembled the Officers, spoke so fairly to them, as that they quieted them, and perswaded them to follow them chearfully, so as they might be paid, as they were promised, before they should go from Mas Verdune, whither they marched all, save the Regiments of Champagnia, and Lorrain, who obstinately said, They would ra∣ther be cut i•• pieces, than March.

That of Champania, came notwithstanding some few dayes after, and joyned with the rest at Mas Verdune; from whence it was afterwards sent for back by the Duke of Candale, who commanded the Forces of Guien, when these were gone.

These Souldiers staid at Mas Verdune eight or ten dayes, expecting Pay; but for all the diligence that could be used, they could not be wholy paid off, for want of Monies; which made the Souldiers begin again to murmur; yet the Commanders used such efficatious Speeches to them, as they resolved to foord over the River at Mas Verdune on the 20th of November.

During their abode here, Plessis Belliere, that he might loose no time, went with Marquess St. Luke, to Beaumonte, and Grenade, which till then held for the Princes; he made them demolish their Fortifications, turn over a new Leaf, and turn'd out some of the most Seditious: So continuing his March he went to Carcasoun, and taking order for refraining the Souldiers Licentious∣ness, he came on the first of October, to Segean.

This little Body of an Army, composed of many several Regiments, made about 1200. Horse, and 3000. Foot; at Segean he met with Mercure's Regi∣ment, which was sent thither to incommodate Leucara, and to hinder the In-rodes of St. Aunais, which was revolted over to the Princes: the very day that he came thither, he heard that the Mareschal de la Motta was to come thither, having made an Agreement with St. Aunais; who was much confounded at the News of the arrival of these Forces. The Marquess went to meet the Mareschal, and after some discourse upon the present Affairs, he went towards the waters of Belerue, for Cure of the Wound which he re∣ceived in Catalonia; and advised the Marquess to go to Constans, and drive the Enemy from thence, and to possess himself of all the Towns, and Castles which the Spaniards held there; which Plessis Belliere did punctually ob∣serve, though his intention was to enter Lampourdan, and relieve Roses which wanted Men, and Victuals.

The Army entred into Constans; Thomas Bagnole, a Rebel commanded some Souldiers there for the King of Spain, as he had formerly done for the King of France; he seemed as if he would dispute the Pass at Terne; but instead of doing so, he left his Men in Garrison in Corbera, Rhodes, Ria, Lock, and in other places advantagiously seated, and with much ado,

saved himself on foot through the Mountains, leading his Horse in his hand.

The French presently besieged Rhodes, which held out for four or five dayes, for the Spaniards did desperately defend it; and being brought to extremity, and not able to get such Articles as they desired, five or six of their chief Commanders saved themselves over the Wall by night, and got to the Mountain: They furiously assaulted the Town, storm'd, and sackt it; the Garrison which was 300 natural Spaniards, and 50. Horse, got into the Castle, that they might come to some composition; but wanting all con∣veniencies, they yielded upon Discretion, and were all made Prisoners of War. Those of Boule, and other neighbouring places, ran rudely in to plunder; and notwithstanding all the French Commanders could do, it was impossible for them, to keep them from firing the Town, when the Forces were gone, so great was their hatred thereunto.

The Army went from hence to Prades, and Bagnolle, withdrew to Villa Franca; Corbera, Ria, and Iock were taken, and all that little Country was re∣duced to the King of France his obedience.

Plessis Belliere, and Bellefons went to discover Villa Franca; to do which, they were forced to grapple hard with those craggy Mountains two or three dayes; they went with 250. Horse, and 300. Musqueteers, by conti∣nual narrow and hard wayes, by which no Horse was ever known to go; the pitiful Bagnolians thought to dispute the Pass in several places, but were ever put to the worst by the French: Their last Squadron was gathered by Bagnols in Oletta, consisting of about 400; they were led on by one Gras, a man of much fame amongst them; the taking of this place would certain∣ly have been very hard, had they not bargained, and had not their Com∣mander been slain at the first firing; the French Foot advanced couragiously, the Enemy were afraid, and were chased down the Mountain, at the bot∣tom whereof they thought notwithstanding to get into Oletta; but the French got thither so soon, as they had not time to get into Bagnols; instead, of relieving them, as he had promised, was the first that went away with some Foot. The French staid two dayes at Oletta, not hearing any News of the Enemy; all those of the neighbouring Villages, came in to render Obedience, and to swear Fealty to France. Plessis visited Castle Niers, fa∣mous for what had been formerly done there; this Castle belonged to Bag∣nols, who had abandon'd it; after this having found out the Avenues to Villa Franca, he returned to from whence he was come.

He could not assault this place at this season, which was so cold and rainy, that he would have lost more than half his Army; besides, there were many Souldiers in the Town, with sufficient Provisions to defend it; nor could Cannon be brought thither; he therefore returned to Prades, from whence he sent account of all things to la Motta, who having taken his leave from the King, was already gone from Bellerue.

Cavallier Crequi was this mean while advanced with a great party of Horse, to convey 500. Foot into Roses, which he luckily did, though the Enemy had built some Forts about it; after which the King's Forces being still more incommodated for want of Victuals in the Country of Constans; and nothing else being to be done, by reason of the bitterness of the Wea∣ther, without apparent danger of wasting all the Army to no purpose, Plessis Belliere, with the consent of all the Field Marshals, resolved to Quarter his Souldiers that Winter in Languedock; where he had order to tarry, toge∣ther with Marquess Bellefons, to watch over the preservation of Roses, and the other Towns upon that Frontier; and his abode there, was to pur∣pose; for hearing that there was a Bark laded with Corn, belonging to

some Merchants which lay at Agde, he used means by the Bishop of that Ci∣ty, and by his own Credit, to convey the Bark of Corn into Roses; which afforded the Garrison means to wait for the relief of Men and Monies, which was sent them a while after from Provence, to preserve it from being betray'd by one Ganot, as shall be said in its proper place.

But because the loss of Cassalle, a place maintain'd so many years by the Crown of France, at the expence of so much Mony, and loss of so many men, was this year added to the other misfortunes of France, we will re∣sume those Affairs a little higher, that they may be the better known.

It is already sufficiently known why Charles the First, Duke of Mantua, put Cassalle into the King of France his hands; and it is also known, That the Mantuans not being well pleased with the French-mens too high carriage of themselves, made them bear with what was not answerable to their expe∣ctation. The business went on therefore without any notice-taking, till by reason of Civil Wars, that Crown began to be less fit for Forreign Affairs, the Spaniards making use of the same Conjunctures, made great progress in Flanders, Catalonia, and in Italy, whereby they became dreaded. Where∣fore Duke Charles the Second of Mantua, found himself bound to have a care of preserving that place which he had recommended to the Prote∣ction of France.

Affairs standing thus in the year 1651, the King of France Commanded Count Argenson to go immediately as Embassador from him to Venice; in order whereunto Argenson took his Journey in the beginning of May; but soon after his Arrival at Venice he died of a Feaver.

His Son succeeded him in his Embassy in November, and in his passage ne∣gotiated in Piemont, Parma, and Mantua; but as soon as he had had publick Audience, he returned to Mantua to manage the Agreement between that Family and Savoy.

It is long since known, that the Treaty at Chierasco, was the chiefest cause of discord between these two Princes; Savoy did always demand the perfor∣mance thereof, which Mantua always opposed: Yet this Treaty was con∣firm'd by many other Treaties which were had ••fterwards; and is much strengthened by the last Treaty which was held at Munster.

The Emperor, and King of France are bound to maintain it by Arms; so as Mantua c••n hardly withdraw himself out of it, yet till now; by reason of his near Alliance with Caesar, he hath staved off the blow, and kept Savoy out of possession, which he continually prest for: At first the Mantuan Agents said, the Emperor could not give it, because the Christian King had not done what he was by the same Treaty obliged to do, to wit, he had not paid the Mony which was promised on the behalf of Savoy.

This made it be believed that Duke Charles would end the business; and to this purpose Argenson had order, That as soon as he should be come to Ve∣nice, that he should go and let Mantua know, that France was ready to make payment, so as he would yield to Savoy's pretended Investure: The Embas∣sador perform'd his Order about the end of the year 1651, but he found Mantua to be otherwise minded than he was said to be in the French Court.

The Dukes Answer was, That the refusal which he made at the Emperor's Court, was not to the end that they imagined; but that he was resolved never to yield to the Treaty of Chierasco, till he had been righted for the great wrong which had been done him; yet he would advise with his Council how to give his Majesty all pos∣sible satisfaction. Not long after Marquess Francisco Rolando della Val Mon∣ferino, the Dukes Chief Minister of State, went to acquaint the Embassador with the Dukes resolution; which was, That his Highness did not oppose the desired In••••stiture so much for the non-payment of the Monies due to him by the

Treaty of Chierasco; as for the prejudice he should receive in the Execution there∣of, that he had oft-times made his Reasons known, and made his Protestations at the Meeting at Munster: And this was all the Ambassadour could get concern∣ing this. The Mantuans offer'd many things to find some way to an Agree∣ment, but never could hit upon any; for it was of too great consequence to part from the Treaty of Chierasco, whereof no one point was to be al∣tered.

The Ambassadour was contented to carry the Copy of the Orders, and the Proxy which the Duke had sent to his Agent at Vienna, to oppose the busi∣ness which was in hand. Argenson was not only sent fo•• the above-said bu∣siness, but for another thing which did much trouble the Court of France; which was, to keep Cassalle from falling into the Spaniards hands, promising to restore it to the Duke upon some Conditions, viz. To remove all the French out of it, to put a Garrison of Swizzers into it, which w••••e to take an Oath to the King, and to the Duke; That his Majesty should pay half the Garrison, the Duke a fourth part, and that they should endeavour to engage the other Princes of Italy for the rest, to the end that they might all have a share in the preservation of that place, which was of such importance for the Common Liberty. All these Proposals were agreed upon, and they would have been fully effected, had it not been for the Disorders which hapned in France.

The Ambassador being returned from Mantua, desired the Commonwealth to contribute to the perfecting of the business, and received great demonstrati∣ons of good will towards the quite of Italy. But withal, how impossible it was for them to mind the preservation of other men's Estates, she being to defend her self without any assistance from others, against so potent an Enemy as the Turk: Wherefore the French not being able to rely upon the Venetians, Af∣fairs were suspended. Argenson writ to the Court, that they must begin some new Treaty to put the place into the Duke's hands, to keep the Spaniard from besieging it. But the King's Council found it not necessary to do so; and their home Disorders made them not mind forreign Interests.

This mean while the French Forces parted from Piemont, as hath been said, with Marquess St. Andrea Monbran, which was followed with the loss of Tri∣no, and Cressentino, which facilitated the like of Cassalle. The Duke of Man∣tua did again and again desire the King of France that he would put on some resolution for the maintenance and preservation of that place, which want∣ed Victuals, Men, and Commanders, and in such a condition, as though the Spaniards should want sufficient Forces for such an Enterprise, they might notwithstanding think upon it now, that France was so weak. Wherefore he cunningly held the Spaniards in hand, that he might afford the French time to accommodate their Home-Affairs, and to relieve Cassalle, or to restore it handsomely.

He made his desires first known by Girolimo Pirandi, a Gentleman of Mont∣ferrat, his Agent in France, when the Court was at St. Germains; where the Cardinal weighing the importance of the business, caused presently 15000 Doubloones be assigned over, to the end that Victuals being thereby provided, and the Militia paid, the City might not need fear the Enemies at∣tempts; but through the misery of those times, the Payments were so neg∣lected, and diverted, as Cassalle languished still more, and the Spaniards were daily more encouraged: Pirandi did therefore reiterate the same desires, to whom the Duke sent express Messengers when the Court was at Pontois; where the Cardinal caused another Assignment be made, besides the first of▪ 8000 double Pistols, and another in Compeigny of 10000. But of all these three Sums there was much ado to get 2000. For the Cardinal's Persecutions being now at the heighth, and he ready to go out of the Kingdom, they

were rather desirous to cross his Orders, and to make his Government appear ill, than to think of the Kingdoms concernments.

Duke Charles found where the shooe wrung him, and therefore thought fit to provide for his own Affairs; and some Proposals of Agreement being made between him and the King of Spain when he accompanied his Sister into Germany, which his Highness had refused, he wrought it so with his Aunt the Dowager Empress, and with the now Regent, his Sister, as that the Emperour held the Spaniards so in hand, as that either the French might re∣cruit Cassalle, or else that they might resolve to put it into his Highness hands, who was the lawful Master thereof.

The Spaniards listned willingly hereunto, and promoted the Treaty with the Duke of Mantua, by the interposition of Prince Bozzolo; and of Father Don Augustin Guazzone Sommasco.

By reason of this backwardness which appeared in the Duke, Argenson received Order to return again to Mantua, to discover the Duke's real inten∣tentions, and once more to offer at effecting the Treaty of Chierasco. The Duke kept constant to his Negative; but that he might not recede from his constant observance of his Majesty of France, but give him what satisfaction he could, he sent him a Breviate of the Reasons he had to oppose that Treaty, and answered the King's Letters with great respect.

The Ambassadour would have entred upon Discourse touching what was said of his Highness treating with the King of Spain by means of the Em∣presses, and upon the Marquess of Caracene's threats, upon his refusal to treat; wherefore he spoke thereof to Marquess de la Vall: Who assured him, There was no Treaty by his Master with Spain; and that if there should be any, it would only be to re-invest him in Cassalle.

The Ambassaduor was surprised at this Answer, and added; That the Duke his Master would run great hazard in trusting the flatteries of his antient Enemies, and greater shame for having thrown off France at such a time; that he was sure the Spaniards would never meddle with Cassalle, without the good will, nay, without the request of his Highness: But all this prevailed nothing with the Marquess, who desired to see his Master free, and absolute Master of his Dominions, which made it be suspected that he held Intelligence with the Spaniards.

The Ambassadour in the Marquess his absence, resolved to feel the Duke's Pulse, upon what he had discoursed with Marquess la Vall; he went to visit the Duke, and plainly acquainted him with the jealousie he had of treating with his State-Minister: He told him, That it was publikly said, that there were Treaties in hand to drive the French out of Cassalle: That he could not conceive what advanage his Highness could receive thereby: That he feared some particular concernment might make him side with the Spaniards against his own in∣clination and real good: And that if Marquess de la Vall had been wrought upon by the Spaniards, it behoved his Highness to correct him for it.

The Duke answered, That he had no Commerce with the Spaniard; that he had made no Agreement with them, and that if any thing should happen, he would acquaint him presently with it; that he was not ignorant of what Obligations his Family had to France which he should never forget; but that he hoped his Ma∣jesty would not take it ill, if he should use all possible means to keep Cassalle from be∣ing lost.

The Ambassadour reply'd, His King had set his heart too much upon this City, to suffer it to be lost; but that his Highness ought to have a care that he lost it not, out of too great a care of preserving it; that the frequent conferences of Marquess de la Vall with Prince Bozzolo, and divers other Spaniards, promis'd but little good; that he beseeched his Highness not to be deceived; to look into his Affairs with his own eyes, and to prevent all inconveniencies which might arise from a rash re∣solution.

The Duke took all well that the Embassadour had said, and did again as∣sure him, That he would be alwayes gratefully devoted to the King: Thus Argen∣son returned to Venice, from whence he inform'd the Court of all that had pass'd; and how that divers Cabals had been held to re-enter into Cassalle, which had been treated upon with all secrecy by Prince Bozzolo, and Fa∣ther Guazzone; adding, That the Spaniards desired nothing more than to bring the Duke over to his party, to stave him off from the protection of France; to recompence him with exchange of Territories, and to re-inti∣grate him for what he should loose in France; that the business was neer at an end, and stuck only upon the Duke's pretentions, who would enter free, and absolute Master into Cassalle, as he was before the War; and desi∣red to be helpt by Monies in some sort or other, to maintain the Garrison; and chiefly not to break with the King of France.

The Duke, when the Embassadour was gone, reflected more upon what had been by him said, and found much to his grief, that the Court of France had an ill opinion of his actions, whilst he knew that they tended only to the preservation of what was his own, without any prejudice to that Crown, where he intended to keep his antient good corrispondency.

Nor did he less wonder, that not only France, but Italy should judge amiss of the Marquess de la Vall's Actions, and that he held Intelligence with the Spaniards; and thought to abuse him with passionate representations, since he knew that the Marquess was only concern'd in his Service, and minded nothing but the making him absolute Master of all his own Towns, being he (who contrary to what was given out) stood stiffest against the Spaniard's Proposals; wherefore he humbly presented his constant Devotion to his Christian Majesty, and to his State Ministers, and sought to take from them the bad Opinions which might be insinuated into them by his envyers, and by those that loved not the Marquess.

And because the Governour of Millan, after having had conference in Serravalle, with Marquess Spinola, and other of his Catholick Majestie's Agents, had carryed the Spanish Army into Montferrat, and taken Ponte∣stura, Corniolo, Ozano, Bossenguano, St. Georgio, Ocimiano, Mirabello, Borgo Ticinetto, and Frascine, whereby Cassalle was blockt up on all sides; so as after a long want of Monies, the Garrison was reduced to great extre∣mity; the five Swisser's Regiments ready to lay down Arms, and be gone; the French but few, and not in a condition to do Service: the small Mont∣ferrat Militia went out to get Victuals for the Camp; the whole Garrison grumbled, and were ready to put the Town into the hands of any that would give them advance Money, or their Arrears; Iona Clava, who with some others had Munitioned Cassalle, could provide the Garrison no longer with Bread, as they had done; nor yet particular Gentlemen, who had maintained it with Corn for five Moneths; the Duke renewed his desires to the Court, and propounded that if by reason of their Civil Wars; they could not send it convenient Relief, they would be contented that it might rather fall again into his hands upon requisite caution, than to the Spaniards, who protested, that if they could get it from the French, they would never restore it to the House of Mantua. St. Andrea did at the same time hold the Spaniards in hand, with Hopes, and Negotiations, to keep them from falling upon it by force, to afford time to the French to settle their Affairs, and to relieve it.

President Mirandi made these Proposals, but finding the business was still delaid, and that there was no means to bring back the Governour of Cassalle, Marquess Monpessat, who was in France, without being furnisht with Men or Monies, went to the Court himself, and propounded, That if they would

make Marquess Tavanes Mareschal of France, and General in Piemont, he should at his own expence within a Month space, raise 3000. Foot, and 1500. Horse, and relieve Cassalle with them.

This Proposition though it appeared fair, yet was not accepted for divers reasons, and perhaps, because the Marquess was Brother to Count Tavanes, who fought for Conde.

The Dutchess of Savoy, who was no less troubled than the French, that Cassalle should fall into the Spaniard's hands, solicited the French by her Em∣bassadour the Marquess Abbate of Aglie, to come to some speedy expedient, protesting, That otherwise his Highness would be forced to seek an Agree∣ment with Spain; and she sent Marquess Villa to Cassalle, to offer Monsieur St. Angelo, who commanded there, to send him in 400. Horse; St. Angelo, fearing that the Monferrians, who were not great friends to the Piemontesse, would not be well pleased with this, and not daring to accept the offer with∣out the King's order, refused it, which caused some scandal, and murmuring in the Court at Turin; which grew greater when it was known, that Mar∣quess di Penes, Governour of Pinaralle, who had order to send 800. Foot of Tault's Regiment to Cassalle, excused himself for the present, pretending that he could not conveniently weaken that Garrison, whilst the Spanish For∣ces were so near.

The Spaniards who were fully advised of all that past, and who feared that any the least succour, which should be put into Cassalle, might make head against their Forces, which were not in a condition of making that Enter∣prise, but by reason of the French-men's weakness, continued treating with the Duke, and told him freely, That unless he would joyn with them, they would take Cassalle, since the French were not in a capacity to relieve it, by reason of the War, which was now in its greatest height; so as to avoid losing it, there was no means left for him, but to joyn with them, drive out the French, and enter himself into his City.

The Duke, who's whole aim was to save that City, and to be therein in∣dependent, as well from Spain, as France, proceeded warily therein, for it was a nice business; and not confiding wholly in the Spaniards, he carried the business so as if he would gratifie the one party, and not disgust the other.

At last the Governour of Millan, fearing lest delay would hurt his De∣signes, sent Marquess Verullino Vicconte, one as valiant in War, as wise in managing State-Affairs, with order to find out the Duke at Rouera, and to continue Prince Bozzolo's Negotiation, and to end it, as was done; for the Marquess overcame all difficulties, and ended the Articles, which were kept secret, though diversly reported: But it was true that the Duke was sufferr'd to put 2000 Foot, and 300 Mantuan-Horse into Cassalle, and 1500 Monferrians, who were raised out of the Militia of the Country, all under Don Camillo Gonzaga, Brother to Prince Bozzolo; all these were by means of the said Gonzaga, and of Conte Ottavio Brabanti, received into the City. St. Angelo was forced to capitulate, and to put the Citadel into his Highness hands, who placed a Garrison there of his own Souldiers, not depending upon Spain; and the Empress obliged her self to furnish the Prince her Bro∣ther with Monies to maintain the Garrison, with which Monies she was fur∣nished by the King of Spain, by Agreement made between them (as said the French) as an expedient by which the Duke might excuse himself to the Court of France, as not having concluded any thing with the Spaniards.

Count Argenson being advertised of what past at the Court of Mantua, and that Marquess Visconte had concluded the Treaty, and that the Mantuan Militia was preparing to march, acquainted the King into what extremity

the Affairs now were brought; and considering that by reason of the Trou∣bles which the Kingdom was in, so speedy a remedy could not be taken as was requisite, he acquainted the Common-wealth with the bad condition which Cassale was in; He told them, That their Senate would lose more thereby than France; and that if they should quit so weighty a Concernment, it would be no wonder if his King should also think upon what toucht him nearest; that he would be much displeased if the Spaniards should take Cassalle; but that their Common∣wealth would find the ill effects.

The next day, before the Senate had resolved what answer to give the French Embassador, the Marquess de Fuentes Embassador from Spain came before them, who desired them that they would permit him to give them an account of those Proceedings: He acquainted them with the Dukes and the King his Masters resolutions; he endeavour'd to make his Masters in∣tentions appear clearly to the Senate, and to free them of all jealousies.

The Senate answered the French Embassador, That the Common-wealth had had long War with the greatest Enemy of Christendom; wherefore they could undertake nothing in the troublesome conjuncture they were in; howsoever they would contribute their good will to the preservation of Cas∣salle, to which purpose they would do all good offices with the interessed Parties.

They told the Spanish Embassador, That as his Catholick Majesty had al∣ways witnessed his desire of Peace, so the Common-wealth was confident he would do still, to the entire tranquility of Italy, so much desired by the Senate: But that they could not mind him, that his King should do well to consider before he drew on worser humours, and renew'd a fierce War in Ita∣ly in a time when the Common-wealth was incommodated with the Com∣mon Enemy of Christendom. They also by their Agents spake to the same effect to the Governour of Millan, but the Spaniards forbare not to prosecute their Designes, pretending not to let slip an occasion so propitious to their Interests; believing that the business would not end as it did.

These Treaties with Mantua, and this advancing towards Cassalle, though they might give an Allarm to all the Princes of Italy, there being none who did not think but that the Spaniards would put a Garrison into that place, and that the Mantuans would not have govern'd their Affairs so advantageously, and to their much Glory, as beyond all mens expectation they did, yet by rea∣son of an inckling that was had of an Agreement which would not be pre∣judicial to any, every one stay'd expecting the event.

Argenson knowing that he could not work upon the Common-wealth, fur∣ther than to make her intercede between the Parties concern'd, thought fit to write a Letter to the Duke of Mantua, wherein since it may be thereby known what the French-mens sence was, it will not be amiss to relate the Letter; which was as followeth:

Most Excellent Sir:

I Have received so many favours from your Highness upon several occasions, as it is very fit in some sort to make my acknowledgments; which I cannot do bet∣ter than upon this occasion: I beseech your Highness to read it with as good a heart as it is written.

I take my self to be bound by the Imployment, wherewith I am honour'd, and by the confidence which your Highness hath put in me; I will pay these two Duties with sincerity: and I shall tell you that France is not concern'd herein but as it relates to your Highness; wherefore it is a Service which I pretend wholly to you Sir, wh••••••∣in I am sure to please the King, since his friendship to your Highness considered, he

will be pleased that I inf••rm you aright, and I passionately desire that your Great∣ness may re••eive advantage thereby.

All Italy is full of the News of Treaties between your Highness and Spain; I do not here discourse upon the manner how, neither do I desire to find out whether they be in your own Name, or in that of the Empress; but be it what it will, 'tis your Interest that is handled, and your Territories that are Treated of: 'Tis posi∣tively said, that your Highness hath concluded what was propounded to you in your Voyage to Germany, and consented to what you then so vehemently denied, to wit, That you will forgo the Friendship of France, renounce the great Estate you have there, drive the French out of Cassalle, and willingly assubject your self to the Spaniard. Four considerable things which ought to be well weighed.

I doubt not but that those that have made your Highness put on these Re∣solves, have cloked them with fair appearances; but they must be sounded to the bottom, and your true and real Servants cannot permit that your Highness be so surprised.

As for the first Point, Of foregoing France; Your Highness may do well to consider, whether it will be your advantage to deprive your self of such a leaning∣stock; you think no more peradventure upon the vast Obligations you owe to that Kingdom, and may peradventure have forgotten that had it not been for the King of France his Protection, you had neither had Mantua, nor Montferrate. Exa∣mine, I beseech you, how much you will suffer in your Reputation by so easily aban∣doning a Party, from whence you have received such assistance? by renouncing their Friendship, who in your greatest necessities spared for nothing to sustein you; and de∣clare your self against a Nation, so often called in to relief, whereof it never fail∣ed. Doth your Highness peradventure think that the Spaniards will confide in you, when they shall find so sudden a change in you; say they should not observe their Promises, whither would you flee for refuge.

The Fame of the surprisal which your Highness intends to make your self in Per∣son, makes all your Party suspected. Do you think that the King will not interrupt your Designe? and if it succeed not, how unfortunate will your Highness prove? you will be abandoned by both, because you can be useful to neither.

France will uybraid you with ingratitude; Spain will be aware of your weakness; Italy will accuse you of somewhat more than misfortune in this your sinister event. In what esteem will your Highness be in throughout all Europe? who will restore you to that City which you would willingly lose?

These are general reflections upon your State and Honour; and in the next place be pleased to reflect upon the state of your Domestick Affairs.

If your Highness break with France, you must resolve to lose all your Territo∣ries which you possess there. I know the Spaniards will promise you Dominions in the Kingdom of Naples, and that those who shall treat with you, will not fail to pro∣pound intire satisfaction upon this important Article. But mark, I pray, what you leave, and how little the Reward is which you are promised. Your Highness loseth a large succession of the best Towns that are in France, and wealth sufficient for a Cadet of your Family; on the contrary you are offer••d Possessions, the true value whereof is not known, in a Country which you little understand, the possession whereof is as little safe, as is the Catholick King's Authority in that Kingdom; those who have been forc'd to be paid in those Monies, may give you a better account of it. Your Highness may enquire of the Prince of Parma, how he hath been treated, and by the little I have said, you may resolve.

For what concerns driving the French out of Cassalle, I well know that is the Cause of your Highness change; but beware it cause not your ruine, the Spaniards have so often attempted in vain to take it, as at last they despair to compass their 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by force; now they will use their cunning to bereave you of it. And whilst they pretend to repossess you of your own, they intend to take it from you; could they

have done it of themselves, they would not invite you to joyn with them: But be∣cause they know their own weakness, they will fortifie themselves with your Highness Credit in that City, and think they may easi••y make themselves masters of it, when it shall be in your Highness hands. You consider not that their chief aim is to make the French distrust you: Consider what violence they used at first to invade the Marquisate of Finale. Think how they Treated the Proprietories. See what they have done to preserve Sabionetta, and Piombina; and believe they are alwayes of the same mind. They think Injustice glorious, so it may serve their Great∣ness. They have neither Faith, Word, nor Sacrament which they do not violate when concern'd. Your High••••sse must not think they will alter their former Policy for your sake. Your Highness is upon the very brink of falling into their Tyranny. You lose your self insensibly, and will not be able to get out so easily as you get in. I will grant they may let you enter into Cassalle, but are you sure they will suffer you to tarry there? Will not you be forc'd to have recourse to them often for maintenance for your Garrison? Who makes such hast to recover a thing▪ will not so easily part with it. I have often protested to you on my King's behalf, that his Majesty expects only a favourable conjuncture to do it. The birth of the new Prince which God hath granted unto your Highness, may serve for a new security.

I speak with the freedom of a Frenchman, accompanied with the Zeal of a pas∣sionate Servant of your Highness, as a man wholly unconcern'd. I write these lines out of gratitude, for the many Favours I have received from your Highness, and I write them for the good of all Italy, whereunto that of Mantua is striatly an∣next. I humbly beseech your Highnesse to accept of my good will, to reflect a lit∣tle upon these discourses, and to believe that I am, &c.

But all this wrought no effect; the Duke's Answer to the Letter was full of respect to the King, complaining, That the present conjuncture of times had thrust him upon this resolution, to save Casal from being lost; and he thanked the Ambassadour for the good will which he had shewed to Mantua.

The Duke sent away the Marquess Don Camillo Gonzaga with the Mantuan Militia, and divers Gentlemen his Subjects towards Casal; and the 23th of September writ from Rivere a Letter to the Judges, Officers, Ministers and Subjects of Casal, and of the state of Monferrat, the Tenour whereof fol∣lowes:

Faithful and Beloved, &c.

SInce the Divine Majesty was pleased to call Us unto the Government of Our Do∣minions, We have not applyed Our Self with more sollicitude and care to any thing than to the procuring of the Quiet of Monferrat; grieving for those Mise∣ries you have for this long time with so much constancy suffered for complying with your Duty towards Us; but the Condition of Affairs hitherto have not enabled Us to perform a thing so just and with so much Passion desired by Us.

We have notwithstanding never omitted to improve any opportunity which Time hath offered unto your advantage; and having heard what was for several Months past publiquely reported, That the Marquess Caracene was to mar••h with the Forces of his Catholick Majestie unto the prejudice of that Our Fortress, We were most earnest Suitors to his Christian Majesty, That he would be pleased to send with all expedition Money and Forces for the security and defence thereof; or that his Majesty would in his great Wisdome pitch upon some Exped••ent which might hinder that Place from falling into other hands than Ours, according to the Consignation made thereof by the Duke Charles Our Grandfather, unto his Maje∣stie's late Father of glorious Memory: And perceiving that Ou•• Applications ••••o•• duced nothing but promises and hopes, We were willing not to be wanting on Our part to give all demonstrations possible of Our continual Respect and Duty towards

that Crown; and being sensible of the difficulty in sending necessary Supplyes during the present Troubles of that Kingdome, We have exceeded both Our own Power, and that of you Our welbeloved Subjects in maintaining the Garrison there for a long time, to our no small damage, and the total exhausting of our Treasure: And we could heartily ••ave wished we had been able to make a larger demonstration of our affections; but finding our selves unable longer to support the charge, and our ap∣prehensions of the Marquess Caracene (who drew near to the said Fort with his whole Army) daily increasing, We did by advice of our Councel perswade him to decline allwayes of force, and to be content that we might enter and possess it with our own Subjects: And his Excellency being satisfied in the Iustice of our Demand, We resolved (before the executing of it) by an express Courrier to the Court of France, to second our former Applications thither, with remonstrating the imminent danger in which Cassale then stood, humbly beseeching his Majesty, That in case a more fit Expedient could not readily be found out to prevent those mischiefs, we might with his Majestie's good liking take course our selves for our Indempnity, by placing there our own Forces, with the exclusion of all others: And we have in the mean time Treated with the said Marquess touching the Terms upon which 'twas to be executed, and have received sufficient assurance from him, that in case we find no opposition, he will permit us freely to enter and enjoy it; that he will sud∣denly draw off his Army from Monferrat: and that in case of opposition, he will em∣ploy the Forces of his Master in compassing so just an end.

We were resolved in order hereunto to have come Our Self in Person, confiding principally in your fidelity, and the devotion you have unto Our Service, whereof We have had so many trials; if after the favour of a Son granted to us by the Di∣vine Majestie, (which adds unto Our Obligation for preservation of Our Domi∣nions, and must encrease your zeal in the co-operating towards it) we had not fal∣len into a Tertian Ague, from which although we are at present (God be thanked) free, yet we are not in a condition to perform it, without apparent danger of a Re∣lapse; and doubting that a longer delay may bring with it some irreparable preju∣dice, we have resolved to send thither Don Camillo Gonzaga our Kinsman, to whom (by reason of his singular worth) we have entirely confided the dispatch of this Affair, whereof We have thought fit to give you notice, that you obey and assist him in all things he shall think fit and conducing thereunto, as you would do Our proper Person.

And we have hereby thought fit further to give you notice, That as we shall on all occasions make demonstration of our bounty and gratitude to such as shall upon this pressing occasion comply with their natural obligation to our Service; so we shall without mercy use the extremity of a rigorous Iustice towards all those who forget∣ting their Loyalty shall shew themselves herein ill affected towards their Soveraign Lord, and careless of the Honour of their Country.

The Dutchess of Savoy having notice of this, and that Sault's Regiment which was at last commanded to march from Pinarol into Casal, had been ill treated by the Spaniards, so as of 800 Foot, there were but 40 that entred; They endeavoured with 1500 Horse, and 2000 Foot, to succour it; and the Forces drawing near the City, which is seated by the Po, under the Conduct of the Count of Verna General of the Horse, the Marquess Monte his Lieu∣tenant General, writ into the Town to have provision made of Barks to pass the River; and that such of the Inhabitants as were devoted to the French, should put themselves into a posture for the assisting of the Enterprize.

But those of Mo••ferrat suspecting that the Savoyards entred once into Ca∣sal, might during the French broyls seize the Town and keep it for them∣selves, refused to furnish any Barks, hindred them from drawing near the Town, and were the occasion that the Spaniards pressing the Citadel with∣out

intermission with their Approaches and Artillery, the Baron de St. An∣gelo who commanded there, was forced to a Capitulation; which was made the 21 of October, with Honourable Conditions; putting the Cittadel it self into the Duke of Mantua's hands, who placed therein a Garrison of their own Souldiers, to the derision of such as imagined, and would needs after∣wards affirm, That not the Mantuans, but Spaniards were Masters of it.

The Governour of Milan observed Religiously what he had promised to the Duke, insomuch as his Highness having thought it convenient, that for the safety of the place a German Garrison should be placed in it, drawn out of ••uch as served under the Spaniard, being first discharged, and after taken ••nto his Higness Service, with an Oath to be faithful to him; Caracene refu∣••ed to consent unto it, suspecting that 'twould be thought a collusion be∣••ween them: Neither would he permit any of his Souldiers to enter the place, nor go himself into it, but in company of the Duke himself, who came thither some few dayes after.

The Generals of Savoy having not found in those of Monferrat that incli∣nation towards them which they imagined, and knowing there was now no means for saving of Casal, that they might not lose all that preparation, re∣solved to attempt the recovery of Crescentino, before which they came the 13th of October, and in seven dayes carried the place, because the Spaniards being engaged before the Cittadel of Casal, could not relieve it.

The news of this loss flying abroad, and the fame being not in Italy alone, but also throughout all Europe, That the Duke of Mantua being joyned with the Spaniard, had delivered into their hands that most Important Place, gave no small Jealousie to those who feared the Spaniards greatness, and made the Duke to be ill thought of in the Court of France, where they censured his Actions with much bitterness, and threatned upon the first occasion to make their resentments ••••own by an exemplary punishment.

The Duke of Ma••••ua notwithstanding protested, That he compl••ed with all due respects to France, and with all submission fit to demonstrate his de∣votion and gratitude towards that Crown, and protested, That he would still continue obsequious and dutiful towards the most Christian King. But his Professions were not in France regarded in such manner as he expected, and having therefore published upon this occasion a Manifesto in the Month of September this very year, just before his agreement with the Spaniard, it will not be amiss to set it down, that so upon comparing thereof with the Declaration made after by the French, when the Lord Plessis Besanson was sent unto the Princes of Italy, the Prudent reader may be able to make a judg∣ment touching the whole matter. The Manifesto was as followeth:

THe Obligations wherein the House of Mantua stands bound upon several oc∣casions to the Crown of France, publickly owned by my Predecessors, and which I have inherited together with my Dukedome, have alwaies maintained in me an inviolable affection towards his most Christian Majesty, promising unto my self by his Royal assistance a most powerful Protection, whereby my state of Mon••errat, and my Town and Citadel of Casal should be defended from loss or prejudice, and at last restored unto me with the same freedome as they were for their preservation and defence deposited into the hands of the late King of glorious Memory by the late Duke Charles my Lord and Grandfather. And although that Country hath for many years last past been daily ruined, not only by the Quartering of Souldiers, but also by the plunder of my poor Subjects, pillaged continually as well by the Forces of Pied∣mont united unto those of his Majesty, as by the Armies of his Catholick Majesty; the one upon pretence of defending the Country; and the other with design to drive their Enemies out of Italy, and particularly from a Town so considerable for i••s neighbourhood unto the State of Milan, and thereby free themselves from the con∣tinual

jealousie it gave them; yet having always constantly refused the Propositions and offers made unto me upon several occasions, I have rested firmly confident of the just Intentions of his most Christian Majesty, and that I should with his good liking, and without the interposition of any other, obtain from him that which be∣longed unto me, without any d••smembring of the Country: but forasmuch as after having several times represented unto his Majesty the urgent and pressing necessi∣ties of my Towns altogether unprovided, and the condition wherein they stood, be∣ing exposed unto the danger of falling under the Command of any who should have designes upon them, my Applications full of duty and respect have brought no other return from his Majesty, but remote hopes of feeble Succours, which could bring ••o security unto the places; whether it were by the advice of some person ill affected to∣ward my Family, or some other particular consideration, or by reason of my ill for∣tune, the Kingdom being then engaged in other Interests, which were perhaps esteemed to be of greater consequence. After I had reiterated my Addresses, and petitioned by my Agents in that Court to have some speedy supply, or that some other expedient might be thought on for my preservation, since just means were not wanting to do it gloriously, and with immortal Reputation to the Crown of France, I resolved to give new proofs unto his Majesty of my affection and zeal unto his Service, by maintaining the Garrison many Months at my own charge: But this expence becoming insupportable to my Revenues, very much diminished, and to my Subjects who are totally destroyed, and did continually sollicite me to take some course for easing of those burdens under which they have long groaned; and perceiving that my suspicions were encreased by a new march of the Spanish Army into the Field, besides the report spread abroad that they would certainly attempt the place, the Governour of Milan being encouraged to it by reason of the weakness of the Garri∣son, the taking of Tri••o a place very important towards the facilitating of the En∣terprize, and the intestine Troubles wherein France was involved, which rendered him secure from a diversion thence; I suffered not my self to be for all this over∣come with fear, or gained with those Propositions and Promises were made unto me, but sent an express Courrier to his most Christian Majesty, beseeching him that he would please to order either some speedy supply of men and money, or take some other resolution suitable to the necessity, or that otherwise he would not take it ill, I should my self take such Expedients as might be best, to gain the possession of the place for my self, who am the lawful Soveraign thereof, to the exclusion of all others, and keep it with a Guard of my own Souldiers, so as it might not longer be exposed unto the danger of falling into the hands of the Spaniard, or others, who may have Designes upon it; the which they have sufficiently demonstrated, not with∣out being listned unto (as I am certainly informed) and their success therein would have proved to my irreparable damage, besides the other wrongs and injuries I suffer, which are not of small importance, but are acted contrary to the good and just inten∣tions and the great disservice of his Majesty. Finally, Seeing my self reduced to an extreme and pressing necessity, and to avoid the greater evil, I have endeavou∣red to perswade the Marquess Caracene to grant me together with a Cessation of Arms, the convenience of taking the possession of that Place and City, with the ex∣clusion of all others, who assented thereunto; and that I might with ease and with∣out let compass the Design, offered me in case of opposition all the Forces of his Catho∣lick Majesty, that I might with more security compass my intention, engaging him∣self not to enter into those Places upon other occasions, and that in case he were ne∣cessitated to it, that he would leave them freely and without reserve under my abso∣lute command.

And forasmuch as the Season doth advance, and that the said Marquess the Go∣vernor presses and protests that he will lose no time of this Campagne, being unable (by reason of the sickness wherewith I am much weakened, and of that which the Arch-duchess my Consort, fell into since her lying in) to go in person as I had resol∣ved, I have been forced to make use of Don Camillo Gonzaga for execution of this

Design, to whom by reason of his near Relation, being of my House, and of his Va∣lour and Prudence I have entirely trusted the execution of this important Design, whereby I have at the same time provided for my own Preservation in the peaceable possess••on of my Dominions, for the ease and relief of my own Subjects, and the general repose of Italy: Protesting nevertheless, that I shall notwithstanding still preserve (as I have ever done) an inviolable affection towards his Most Christian Majesty, and endeavour with all industry to give Testimonies thereof to the whole World, hoping in his Majesties goodness, that when he shall be pleased to make re∣flections upon the present state of Affairs, he will not upon this occasion lessen his good opinion of, and kindness towards me, which I so highly prize and value. And I doubt not, but all that with sincere eyes and minds disinteressed shall consider the re∣solution I have taken, and shall examine the before-mentioned important Motives which have induced me to it, will perceive they were no less just than necessary, and will find no occasion to blame me, that in the extremity of my Affairs, I have rather chosen to give a Remedy unto my Misfortunes, than to augment them, by declaring my self an enemy unto a Neighbour Nation more powerful than my self (and whose Dominions do divide mine) at a time when they offered to assist me.

The Duke then came to Casal about the end of October, where he staid till Christmass following, at what time he returned to Mantua; drew off the Man∣tuans, and left there only those of Monferat, with some French who were married in the City: the Marquess Don Camillo returned to Bozolo with great glory, having highly merited from the Duke: the Marquess de la Val staid some days at Casal to give such Orders as were necessary, as General of the Duke's Forces; and conferred the Government of the Cittadel upon the Marquess Sigismu•••• Gonzaga, and that of the City upon the Count Ot∣tavio Brambati, Son to the late Count Francisco, who had so worthily served the house of Mantua, until his death at Paris, whilst he was Extraordinary Ambassadour there for the Duke. After the departure of which Brambati, who was by his urgent Affairs called home into his own Country, there was placed to Command in it, first the Marquess Bonifacio Fassali Casalasio, and afterwards Count Giouanni Emilis Veronese.

There followed also the change of divers of the Officers and Ministers, some of them being brought away to Mantua, and in their places several others sent to succeed them.

The Duke after gave an assurance unto the Ministers of France. That as soon as the Country of Monferat should be restored unto the pristine state, and put into his peaceable possession without disturbance, he would re∣nounce the 3000 Crowns monthly which the Empress was obliged to fur∣nish him for payment of the Garrison, and would maintain them at his pro∣per costs; which he did, for taking away of all colour or pretence the French might have formed upon that point unto the prejudice of his Declara∣tions, it being a thing certain that he had no imagination to let go that noble Town out of his hands, which rendred him considerable to all Italy, and va∣lued both by the one and the other Crown, and these were always the true thoughts of the Marquess de Val, with whom the Spaniards (notwithstanding they dissembled it) were in truth highly dissatisfied.

But all these Declarations of the Duke and his Ambassadours were little worth, because things being represented in the Court of France different from what they were, the suspicion had so much force, that things were si∣nisterly interpreted neither could the Kings Ministers be satisfied with the loss of a place of that importance, and which gave so much lustre over all Ita∣ly to their Authority.

The other Princes of Italy were in a manner all of them jealous that Casal

would finally fall into the Spaniard's hands, and were therefore sorry the French had not in time provided for it, which it was said they might have done with a small matter, if they had not applyed themselves rather to per∣secute Cardinal Mazarine and overthrow his Designs, than provide for the concernments of the Crown. And these Jealousies and Apprehensions were much increased by the Report was spread, That the Spaniard, after beating the French out of Casal, negotiated earnestly a Peace with Savoy; insinua∣ting into the minds of the Ministers there, that the King of Spain would restore Versellis, drive the French out of Pignaroll, and the Cittadel of To∣rino, adjust their differences with Mantua, and probably Marry the Infan∣ta of Spain unto the Duke of Savoy, whereby they endeavoured to gain that Family, and chasing the French beyond the Mountains, to restore Peace un∣to Italy, and their own Authority unto the Pristine Splendour.

These Treaties were listened unto by those of Piedmont with no small at∣tention, and the rather because they suspected that (the most Christian King, being engaged in a Civil War, and not able to contribute unto the defence of Piedmont,) the Spaniards might with ease be able to make some powerful Invasion upon them, so as if they deferred the remedy until another time, they should perhaps find no means to compass it.

The Court of France, and most particularly the Cardinal, was highly jealous of this Treaty, who being mindful of the prejudice it might bring to the King's Interests, in case the Spaniards (having secured all things in Italy) should employ all their Forces in Catalonia and Flanders; laboured with all industry, as well by means of the Ambassadour Servient, as of the Abbot of Aglie, who was well disposed towards France, to uphold the Sa∣voyards in hope of a ready and secure Assistance; an•• the Cardinal having a great credit and confidence with the House of Savoy, his onely word pre∣vailed more than all other means to overthrow the Artifices of the Enemies unto the Crown of France; but in regard the Intestine troubles gave them not liberty to furnish Supplies as the Affairs required, that he might have the Court of Piedmont constant to their Union with France, he encouraged them with putting Verna and the new Town of Asti into their hands, and with the Honour of Treating their Ambassadours after the manner of those sent from Crowned Kings at their first Audience of his Majesty, and that the Guard should receive them in compleat Armour, which was a thing long pretended unto, and much desired by those of Piedmont.

Besides these Honours the Count de Quince, a bold Cavalier, and one rea∣dy for the executing of all Designs was sent thither with the Title of Ge∣neral of Piedmont, who, being in France with Title onely of Lieutenant Ge∣neral, that he might command in chief accepted this Imployment, which was before refused by many others, not for hazard of their persons (because the French Cavaliers are generally bold and daring) but for Interest sake, as doubting that by reason of the divisions in the Kingdom, they were not like to receive Money, which is the Life and Soul of all Affairs.

This Count came to Turin the 6th of December, accompanied with a good number of Gentlemen of Quality, and amongst others the Marquess of Riche∣lieu, Brother unto the Duke of the same Name, who having consummated a Marriage with Madamoiselle Beavois, and representing to have done it contrary to the liking of his Relations, went into Italy with an intention to break it; but the Design took not, because the Queen being unwilling the Lady should be abused, declared the Marriage valid, and treated her pub∣lickly as Marchioness of Richelieu, to which the Marquess after some few Months acquiesced, and returned to Court.

Quince was shortly after followed by a good body of French Horse, and

quitting the Court went into Piedmont, by which recruit the minds of those in Piedmont were quieted, and the Designs of the Spaniards grounded upon the Civil Broils in France were broken.

In the mean time the happy News of this Success touching Casal, being brought the 16th of November unto the Catholick Court, Te Deum was the next day Sung in the Royal Chappel, and the same day towards night their Majesties accompanied with the Dutchess Margaret of Mantua, and all the Grandees of the Court, went to our Ladies of Atochia, to give due thanks for the accomplishment of a Design, which had ever before been fa∣tal to that Monarchy, and may be said to have been the sole impediment unto the fortune of the Spanish Arms; although perhaps 'tis probable the troubles of Italy will not so end, because the French being inforced thereby unto a greater care of the Affairs of Italy, it may so happen that the humours decli∣ning one where, will elsewhere gather, and be followed by those ruins in Lumbardy, which are used to be the consequents of a change in people.

They thought after (according to the wonted generosity of that great King) upon the demonstrations of esteem and gratitude due to the Marquess Carracene, who by Arms and Policy had accomplished an Affair of that im∣portance, and they considered also the Merits of the Marquess of Mortara, who after so much suffering, and hardship in a Siege of Fifteen Moneths, had restored Barcelona, and Catalonia unto the Monarchy, but the rewards were below the expectation, because Carracene, who pretended to the Ho∣nour of a Grandee, could not obtain it, (the number of persons of merit be∣ing so great, that making one, it was necessary to confer that Title also up∣on many others,) by reason whereof, the first Minister being more sparing in the conferring of that Dignity than was the late Lord Duke his Uncle, it was forborn, honouring him instead thereof with the charge of a Gentle∣man of the King's Chamber; a Dignity conspicuous, and of much esteem amongst them.

To the Marquess of Mortara was granted an encrease of some yearly Rent, and to both hopes of larger acknowledgments hereafter in time con∣venient.

There was in the mean time a fierce War between the Cossacks and Polan∣ders, whereupon many fore-seeing what prejudice mig••t thereby happen to the Kingdome, (engaged also in a War with Muscovy,) when the Truce with the Crown of Sweden should be expired, and Hostility renewed with that Kingdom, (powerful by a numerous Militia enured to War▪ and rich in Money, amassed together by the Plunder of the Empire) desired to interest three neutral Potentates in the Treaty of Peace between the Polan••••••, and Swede, that in a Meeting to be appointed in some indifferent place, they might be Arbitrators touching the Equity of what was in dispute between them; these were the most Christian King, the Republic•• of Veni••••, and the States of Holland, who willingly undertook the Charge, and appointed for the place of Conference the Hans Town of Lubeck.

Pol••nd dispatched thither four Plenipotentiaries, persons of Quality; the principal of which was the Count of Lesseneh••s, and each of the•• ha∣ving a distinct Train, appeared with a noble and splendid Equipage.

Sweden also sent four of theirs, the principal of whom was the Lord of Ro∣fe••a••t, with an Equipage nothing inferiour to them.

The King of France sent for his Extraordinary Ambassadour and Media∣tour the Lord of Chenut.

The State of Venice the Cavalier Michael Morosini; and the United Pro∣vinces three of their Deputies.

The Elector of Brandenbourgh dispatched thither •• person of Quality

his Kinsman, who not being able (by reason of a Sickness happened to him) to supply the place, there were surrogated in his stead three of his confi∣dents, who became altogether useless there, by reason of some Ceremo∣nies pretended to by the Elector equal to that of Soveraign Princes, where∣by they remained excluded from all Conferences or Visits from any other than the Polanders.

The Cavalier Morosini Ambassadour from the Republick of Venice, was then in France, and by the arrival of the Senator Giovanni Sagredo his Successor at Court, ended his Imployment, with the entire satisfaction of his Majesty and his own Prince; towards whom (although France were at that time grievously afflicted with an Intestine War) his Majesty gave testi∣mony of his gratitude by extraordinary Presents, and affectionate Expressi∣ons of his esteem.

As soon as he had notice of the safe Conduct for the Plenipotentiaries of the Crowns, he left Paris the 22th of September, and after a trouble∣some Voyage came to Lubeck, with a Train of Threescore persons, which he increased there, that he might not appear inferiour to any in the Splen∣dour of his Retinue, as he was equal to them in his knowledge.

The Baron of Chenut followed him some few dayes after, and about the beginning of December all parties being met at the place appointed, (although the Hollanders were not yet come) they entred upon the matters that were Preliminary to the Treaty.

The first Pretension of the Swedes was, That they would by no means enter into a Treaty, unless Poland would raze out of their Writings, and Commissions, the Title of King of Sweden before used, and would also re∣form their great Seal, by leaving out the Three Crowns, which are the Arms of Sw••den.

The Polanders, by perswasion of the Mediatours, agreed to raze it out of their Commissions, having first made a Protestation apart, wherein they declared the same was not to prejudice their right; But as to the Seal the same being the particular Arms of the King's Family, not of the Kingdome; this pretence was by the Arbitratours esteemed very slight; and therefore Morosini together with the Deputies of Holland, who arrived there about the end of Ianuary, 1653. (because the French were of the Swede's party) en∣deavoured of themselves to perswade the Swedes that they would quit the same, and fall upon the Treaty; but they being positive to have the Commis∣sion changed with the omission of the Title, and the reformation of the Seal, the matter stuck so as no perswasion of the Mediators was able to advance it; whereupon the Affair becoming desperate, because the Polanders could not alter their Instructions, without a new Diet impowering them to do it, the business fell; and in the Moneth of February the Meeting was dissolved, with∣out coming to any resolution.

The S••edes shewed themselves little desirous of this accommodation; b••∣cause they hoped (seeing Poland engaged in a great War) to find a time more favourable to their Interests, that they might either make a Peace upon their own Terms, or breaking it, advantage themselves extraordinarily, during the weakness of that Kingdom.

The French adhered unto their sence (for which they were much blamed) whereby 'twas manifest it concerned them the Swedes should continue arm∣ed, that in case the face of Affairs should alter, and the French Arms should gain any advantage over the Spaniards, the Emperour (standing in doubt of the Swedes) might not be able to assist them.

The Polanders therefore parted for their own Countrey, and the like did all the other Plenipotentiaries, and Mediators, only the Hollanders

staid some days after, having received Orders to negotiate with the Hans-Towns, and draw them to some Declaration in their favour against the English:

Mean while the Ministers of Spain were not negligent in their prosperity, but prosecuting their good fortune, sent Orders to their Fleet in Biscay, to attaque Blage, a most important place, scituate at the mouth of the G••∣ronne▪ wherein was Governour (as you before heard) the Duke of San Si∣mon, a most faithful person to his Prince.

The Spaniards had fancied this Enterprize not to be difficult, because the French Armada being taken and destroyed by the English, they supposed it could not be in a condition speedily to relieve it; and they believed the For∣ces of the Bourdelois, joyned with those of the Princes in Guienne, would be sufficient to block it up by Land: Battevile therefore sollicited the executi∣on of the King's Orders, and with all diligence possible appeared with his Shipping in the Garonne; but he found things in a far different condition from that which divers discontented French had represented to the Court of Spain; so as 'twas necessary for him, without any attempt made, to return, and winter in the Port of Passage; where he discovered the Artifices of some, who to ingratiate themselves with his Catholick Majesty, and obtain rewards from him, represented things very different from truth, magnify∣ing small matters, and lessening those of greater consequence.

Thereby it happened that discords and unkindnesses grew shortly after between Battevile, Marsin, and Lenet, which were followed with Calum∣nies and Accusations▪ exhibited by those French Commanders against Batte∣vile himself, that they might get him removed out of Guienne; they bla∣med him, that there were not in Bourg 1000 of the 1500 Irish paid by the Spaniard, that his dispatches had been altered, and accounts given of exorbi∣tant expences, and that having changed the Spanish money into French he had thereby gained 25 in the hundred.

Don Lewis who loved and protected Battevile, ordered him to retire to St. Sebastians, declaring, That he was obliged not to give any disgust unto the Princes.

But in the Court of Spain it appeared not a thing blame-worthy (al∣though it had been true) that this Lord (continuing faithful to the King's Interest) should be so cunning as to make his own particular advantage, be∣cause it declared him to be a man of spirit, which was a thing displeasing to the French, and principally to Lenet, who having used to domineer without controul in Bourdeaux, could not endure to have any dependence upon the Ministers of Spain.

In execution of the abovesaid Orders, Battevile having first imbarked up∣on two Vessels the most trusty of his Officers, and divers of his best Souldiers in the Garrison at Bourg; the ninth of December began his Voyage with no less bitterness than indignation, against Marsin and Lenet, who he pretended had wrongfully slandered him, for no other cause but that they found him a faithful and useful Servant to the King; from whose favour he had easily fallen; had he not been supported by the same Don Lewis D'aro, who pro∣tected him with that sincerity and justice, which are the But of all his Actions.

To Don Ioseph Osorio was confirmed the Command of the Forces in Bourg, and the manage of the Treasure was conferred upon the Governour of St. Sebastians.

C••ntelino at that time returned unto the Catholick Court, and was sent back with a Present of Jewels to the Princess of Conde, valued at 40000 Crowns; and a Bracelet of Diamonds for himself.

But the Cardinal Mazarin, who during all these Blustering storms had preserved the Royal Authority from the eminent danger of a Ship-wrack, and shewed himself to all the world to be one of the most expert and daring Mariners that ever sailed upon the Sea of Politick Affairs; as soon as he per∣ceived the troublesome Commotions and storms which had so furiously agi∣tated the whole Kingdom, to be dispersed by his Majestie's presence, and ac∣cess to Paris, gave himself wholly to the study and practice of such fit Expe∣dients, as might not only calm the intestine Motions, but also raise up the lost credit and reputation of the Royalty; and he believed the way to make the ••ame more reverenced and observed, was rather by Pardon than Chastise∣ment; it being a Maxime fixed in the Cardinal's mind, That the generous spirits of the French Nation were sooner to be gained by courteous usage, than by the violence of Arms; which was the cause he set on foot Treaties with each one of the contumacious Persons; holding that love unto the King ought to be the fifth Element, and to preserve that concord between Subjects, which is not interrupted, but by the apprehensions of hatred, or revenge. He revived new Treaties and Propositions of Peace with the Prince of Conti, the Parliament of Bourdeaux, with the Counts of Harcourt and Ogran, and with all the other Princes, great Lords, and men of Spirit, who possessed rather by jealousies and suspicions, than natural passions, had estranged themselves from their Obedience to his Majesty; the first effects of which wise conduct were seen in the Pardon, which the King by the Madia∣tion of the Mareschal De la Motte, granted unto the Baron of Sant Annes, Governour of Leucata, who had forsaken his Majestie's Service, upon several sinister impressions, till by this way of sweetness he was otherwise convin∣ced and satisfied.

This Cavalier had revolted by the suggestion of some unquiet Spirits, and some distaste taken unto the Court, by reason his pretensions were dis∣countenanced; but he was quieted and sweetned by the dextrous manage∣ment, and civil means used towards him by the said Marquess, a person of great abilities, with whom the last of November he made an Accord, That pardon should be given to him and all the Inhabitants of Leucata; his Sons who were Prisoners in Paris should be released; the goods belonging to himself, or his friends restored; the Castle of Termes to be put into the hands of the Arch-bishop of Narbon▪ to be restored to the said St. Annes after six months, or otherwise in case his Majesty should not be pleased to ratifie this Article, the two Troops of Horse raised by the said St. Annes, should be put into his Majesty's Service, and there should be paid unto him 860 Doubloons for his Charges in the said Levy, and 415 for the Losses of the Inhabitants of Leucata, and the Ransom of Poder his Cousin; all the Prisoners to be freed; all Treaties with the Spaniards, or the Princes, re∣called, and an assurance upon his Honour, and Parol given never to swerve again from the obedience of the King.

The Cardinal had caused also a strict negotiation to be made with the Prince of Conde, by means of some Confidents of his, to pacifie him, and make him quit the Spaniards Service; offering him the Soveraignty of some Country out of France: But whether it were that the Prince found himself too far engaged with the Spaniard, or that the generosity of his Mind would not permit him to falsifie his word without some apparent cause or pretext, or that he thought this Dignity too mean, or were taken with the pleasant gust of those advantages he received from Spain, and in particular with the great Assignations made unto him, or whether he were led by other Suspi∣cions, Reasons, or Respects, amongst which probably that which held the first place, was the desire of the occasions to use his Sword, his great heart being unable without trouble to return into the calm of Peace, the Propo∣sitions

vanished without effect. The Prince declared, That he was no wayes ambitious of being a Soveraign Prince, contenting himself with the Qua∣lity he had of being first Prince of the Blood; that he knew not how again to trust a person that had once deceived him, nor believe that person would be faithful to him, who had before shewed himself not to be such; that these Offers were like those Gifts which had formerly passed between Hector and Ajax; that we ought to give least credit unto those things which appear most probable; and that we must consider that how much more is promised for necessity, so much more likely are we to fail thereof when that is over; That he knew the Cardinal sufficiently for a person as apt to promise much, as he was afterwards industrious to perform onely what suited to his own ends: And he protested in fine, That he would never consent to any Accom∣modation wherein the King of Spain should not also be included; to whom he professed himself highly obliged: The person imployed endeavoured to take from him all sinister Impressions, and represented to him that he should call to mind he was a French-man, and one of the Blood-Royal, that he had too much Reputation and Glory, not to be made the Butt of Envy and Jea∣lousie, to a Nation that had so much emulation with France, and were am∣bitious to have no dependance but on themselves; that to build his hopes upon those who proposed to themselves ends different from his, was to make a ruinous building; That Friends follow the Fortune not the Bodies of their Friends, and that in quitting France he should be abandoned by all the French-men; that ones Countrey ought to be as dear unto a prudent Man, as his Shell is to the Snail; and that being his true and faithful Servant, he took the freedome to tell him, It was much more honourable for such a Princes as he to be Cousin to the King of France, than Servant to the King of Spain; He added hereunto many efficatious reasons, but all in vain, be∣cause the hatred and disdain of the Cardinal, were prevalent in the imagï∣nation of the Prince, and the opinion he had firmly conceived, that he should be the next Campagne too powerful for the King's Forces, and be enabled thereby to return to Paris.

The Cardinal therefore not being able to prevail with the Prince, thought of the means how to divide his Brother Conty from him; He caused advan∣tageous Conditions to be proposed unto him, and thought that having once gained him, he should thereby restore Bourdeaux, and Guienne to their Pri∣stine Obedience; because the Factions of this Prince were very powerful in that City, and Province, and the effects thereof were likely to be very advantageous to the King's Service; and the reduction of his Brother, by reason of the Jealousies, which peradventure the Spaniards might upon that occasion have of his Person, and the ill usage which it was probable he should receive from them, when he should be deprived of that support, which rendred him so much the more considerable. But although Conty were not a friend unto his Brother, and that his mind was much more apt to receive satisfaction, yet he was so fixed not to disoblige the Dutchess of Longueville his Sister, that without her he would resolve of nothing, and she remaining firm in the good Intelligence she held with Conde, and the hopes which the generosity of her own mind suggested to her; all those attempts proved useless, and consequently all the other attempts, and pra∣ctises of those in Bourdeaux, who were affectionate to the King's Party, fell to the ground, their indeavours tending onely to bring things unto that pass, that the City should second such resolutions as should be taken by the Prince of Conty, and the Dutchess.

The Cardinal therefore took in hand other expedients, and since he could not gain the Princes, indeavoured by new Orders to deprive by lit∣tle

and little, both them and the Town of Bourdeaux, from those Subjects, and Places which fomented their pretensions; and therefore the Duke of Vendosme was ordered to Sail with the Fleet into the Garonne; unto the Duke of Candale (who was already departed to Govern the Forces in Gui∣enne) were dispatched all the Troops which could be got together in the neighbouring Provinces; and the Negotiations with the Count D' Ognon and others to divide them from the contrary Faction were set on foot, there∣by to render (as it after happened) the King's Party in that Province the more powerful.

In this mean time the Prince of Conty sojourned with his Army in Cham∣paigne, where having failed in his Designs upon Reims, Soissons, and other great Cities full of People, War-like, and Faithful to their King; he came at last unto Vervins, a feeble Place, without Garrison, or Fortification, and having left there two Regiments of Foot, and a Regiment of Horse, sate down with the gross of his Army before Rhetel, which in a short time was rendred to him by Monsieur di Kale, who was Governour, by reason of the weakness of the place, and want of things necessary for defence of it, as also did Chasteau Porcien, which is but little distant from it; but St. Mer∣haud, another walled Town with a Castle not contemptible, scituate upon the head of the same River Aisne, which passeth to Rhetel, held out until the 13th of November, and being not relieved by the Mareschal Turenne, was then forced to a Capitulation, which was honourably granted unto the Baron of Saint Mor, who was there Governour; and because this Town be∣ing scituated between the Mose and the Marne, and between the Cities of Verdun, and Chalons, was of some consequence, principally because it was not far distant from Clermont and Stenay, places held by Conde; he left there a great Garrison, under the Baron di Montalt, and gave them orders to for∣tifie, pretending by maintaing of that, and Rhetel, to winter all his Troops in France, and thereby not onely to trouble all the neighbouring Frontiers, but also to ease Flanders, where (had not this been) he must have quarter∣ed, and also to give life thereby to the Cabals in Paris, which though they were much weakened, were not so totally extinguished there, but that ma∣ny of his friends, and of the Duke of Orleans his Partisans, endeavoured by underhand practises to raise some trouble.

After which, having licensed from his Camp the Troops of his Royal Highness, who, under the Command of the Baron of Valon their Comman∣der in chief passed into Picardy, to the Service of his Majesty, but upon in∣gagement not to accept any Imployment against Conde, he marched into the Barrois, he took Barleduc, with the loss of the Baron de Fougges, Lieutenant Ge∣neral to the Duke of Lorrain; and after that Lagny, and the Castle of Voet, all of them places of small strength; after which the Winter being far advan∣ced, and his Souldiers unwilling to begin any new Enterpise, he licensed the Troops of Flanders and Lorrain, and gave Winter Quarters to his own Soul∣diers, upon the Mase, and the adjacent Country.

The Cardinal on the other side, exercising his thoughts indefatigably, about these so imbroiled and troublesome Affairs, considered that it was ab∣solutely necessary before putting of the Army into Winter Quarters, to dislodge the Prince's Forces from their new Lodgings, and to recover the places they had taken, he therefore caused the King's Camp to be re-inforced with ••000 Combatants drawn from the Duke of Elbeufe in Picardy, and by others from Normandy, and the bordering Provinces, and in lieu of coming to Paris (whither he was by his Majesty earnestly invited) went into the Army, to redress by his presence those matters there, which by the late di∣visions were much weakened, and in great disorder, and which without

him could harldly have been executed by the Generals, because bringing along with him many Friends and Dependents, he stopt all those, who wea∣ried with the past toyls, thought rather of retiring to their Houses, than tarrying longer, and encouraged the rest to continue in the King's Service, being had in great veneration and esteem among the Souldiery, by whom he was as much loved and reverenced, as he was hated and abhorred by the seditious and base Plebeians in Paris; neither was he at all deceived there∣in, because the Souldiery being revived by his presence, and the Military Councils being thereby quickned, he gained those advantages, which cau∣sed him shortly after to return glorious, and as it were Triumphant into Paris, more than ever in their Majesties favour, and the Authority of his Ministry.

The Marquess de Chasteauneuf continued notwithstanding all this while in Paris without Imployment, discharged of his Officers, with that resent∣ment which is usual unto a great and generous heart like his, accompanied with an accomplished knowledge and experience in matters of State, and a professed inimitable Loyalty towards his Majesty alone, independent of all private interest whatsoever; and being therefore unable to contain himself (being in conversation among some Ladies) from the expression thereof, nor from mingling in his Discourse, together with his sighs against his own ill fortune, some censures touching the persons that then were at Stern; he was by the King upon the 12th of November banished from Paris: the next day his Majesty appearing in the Parliament, caused to be there verified and registred the Decree made in his Council of State, against the Princes of Conde, of Conti, the Dutchess of Longueville, the Duke of Rochefoucunt, and others who were all of them declared guilty of High Treason against the King.

The Court continued after to give fitting orders and redresses for the good Government of the Kingdom, and the avoiding of these new Machines which had been lately raised in opposition to the Royal Authority; and the King's Councel above all things applied themselves to find out fitting means for the quieting the mind of the Cardinal de Retz, who being full of lofty thoughts, and eminent pretensions, was much troubled to see the Cardinal Mazarin re-established quiet in Paris, and the Kingdom, to which he was much adverse, by reason of his particular designes. He gloried so much in the lustre of his Purple, and the value he put upon himself, that hoping with the same Arts he had gained them, to overthrow also the glory and the fortune of the other, and reimbu••se himself the vast expence he had been at during the Broyls, whereby he was run far in debt, he went continually seeking the means to compass his intent, and as he had thrown down the greatness of Conde, to ruinate also that of the Cardinal Mazarin. He there∣fore sollicited the Parliament to meet, and consult upon the means of resto∣ring their secluded Members, pressed the Partizans to demand the Monies ad∣vanced by them from the King (though they had all the time before never mentioned a word of it) to hold correspondence with the Seditious and Male-contents, to renew the Troubles, and compass his desires. And al∣though remorse of Conscience made him at times suspicious, yet he f••ared not to be imprisoned by reason of his Dignity of Cardinal, as he was used to publish amongst his Confidents. And if he went not to Court it proceeded rather from the Maxime, that he would not be esteemed gracious there, and preserve thereby the favour of the people, whom he thought apt enough to a Commotion, than from the fear of receiving an affront; so highly did he over-rate the esteem, he thought was set upon himself: and remaining there∣fore

in the middle of the City amongst the Citizens his friends and neighbors, he continued still impugning of the King's Authority, and hoped that by this means they would be forced to make application to him: Whereupon this being known by his Majestie's good Servants to be a pernitious action, which was by all means to be speedily redressed; there was a long debate between the Prince Thomaso of Savoy (who then exercised the Charge of Principal Minister of State) and divers others well-affected to his Majestie's Service, touching the means of removing him from Paris; and in case that should not succeed, to find some other fit expedient to take from the loose people this Temptation, which might perhaps engage them in new Disorders.

The Cardinal had in confidence acquainted the Princess of Guymeny, that he was willing to retire to Rome, and that coming to the King's knowledge, the Princess was charged in some dextrous manner, to let him know, That if we were resolved upon it, his Majesty would assent thereunto: And at the same time there was proposed unto him a specious Title, with a considerable Aynde de costa, That residing in Italy, he might protect the Interests of the Crown, as well in the life, as after the death of Innocent, in the Conclave: But when it came to the point, the effects were found very different from his Expressions, for he then answered, That the face of Affairs was changed, and that he could not now abandon his Friends to the discretion of the Court.

The Negotiation of the Princess having failed, there was employed therein by the Queen, the Princess Palatine, who was of a ready Wit, and lively spirit, and very fit for the undertaking of any knotty business. The Princess saw him several times, and failed not to represent unto him with much efficacie what was imputed to him by their Majesties, Adding, That 'twas too much for him to pretend to make use of that Dignity (which he had by his Majestie's favour and bounty) in a matter repugnant to the gust and satisfaction of his Ma∣jesty, against whose good pleasure, it was a vanity worthy of blame in Subjects to oppose themselves. That he should not harbour in his breast these thoughts of trou∣ble and disturbance, which by many were imputed to him; and that besides there were offered unto him besides Honorable Ayndas de Casta, and Assignations suffi∣cient to maintain him at Rome: But the perswasions of this Princess availed nothing, because he strongly conceited his Reputation was concerned in the Voyage, in respect it would be thought he was driven out of France, and parting should abandon many of his Friends, which by the Rules of grati∣tude he could not do. Finally, being convinced by the strong Reasons of the Princess, he delayed the time upon the pretence of expecting the Car∣dinal Mazarine's coming to Paris, with whom alone, and no other, he was resolved to treat of that Affair; and refusing the Queens interposition there∣in, which much encreased the suspicions against him: And he began then to demand a Government for one of his Dependants; a Secretary of States place for another Friend of his, and other Employments for divers of his Confidents, and discovered his pretensions to be very high and exorbitant. The Queen who had refused such things to the Prince of Conde, who was at the Gates of Paris with an Army, was resolved not to grant them unto a man who had nothing but a tongue to stir up fickle people, and such as were desirous of a change; the jealousies had of him being therefore much augmented, it was thought necessary (for securing the Government against his sinister and vagrant thoughts) to take a resolution to secure his Person.

The difficulty of the thing rested in the manner how to execute it, be∣cause it was not practicable in his own House, and both dangerous and full of peril to do it in the Streets of Paris, which his Majesty desired to avoid,

and to do it without tumult, as well in regard of his Dignity of Cardinal, as because his principal aim was to do all things with great quietness, and without confusion.

But whilst the King's Ministers busied themselves in fitting of such things as might facilitate the execution thereof, which they found al∣wayes full of difficulty, fortune, or rather the divine Justice, offered a means for the effecting of it much more favourable than was expe∣cted.

His friends did represent unto him, that the King was resolved to be ob∣served, and that it was his duty to pay his Majesty the ordinary Visits, or to abandon Paris; they told him this manner of proceeding was too scan∣dalous, and de Retz being perswaded thereby, and Christmas now drawing near, was resolved to Preach himself in the Church of St. German of Aux∣erre, whereof the Queen having notice, sent word unto the Curate, that she intended to be there in person.

The Cardinal took this for a favour, and thought himself obliged to wait upon her Majesty, and thank her for the Honour she intended to him, in persuance whereof upon the 20th of December, beyond all their hopes, or expectations, he went unto the Lo••vre, trusting upon his Dignity of Car∣dinal, wherein he so much confided, that he said publickly, That although he had formerly been in some apprehension from the Court, yet since he was a Cardinal he dreaded nothing further from thence.

Being entred within the Court, he found the Queen was not then fully dressed, and therefore going up the great Stayres to see the King, he met his Majesty about the middle of them, by whom he was with great courtesie re∣ceived, and brought into his Mothers Lodgings, with whom whilst de Retz complemented and discoursed, the King whispered to Monsieur de Tillier, and gave order for the Arresting of him, which a while after was executed by the Marquess of Villequier, Captain of the Guard, who seised upon him at the door of the Anti Camera.

The Cardinal was very pale, and much confounded; and said, What me? for what Cause? Villequier with some Souldiers conducted him into the great Gallery, and from thence into the Duke of Anjou his Apartment, where he was shut up about two hours, until the Guard to conduct him was put in or∣der, and a Coach wherein he was after some time by the Porta del Conferenza, carried unto the Castle de Vincennes; no Tumult or Disturbance being all this while among the people, who discoursing of the News, applauded the King's resolution in it.

There were presently many and various discourses touching this extraor∣dinary Accident happening as 'twere by chance: Those of the Court said, That the King began now to make himself known for such, and that this resoluti∣on was a thing suddenly taken by himself, without the advice or perswasion of his Ministers, only for the publick repose and quiet of the Kingdom.

The Prisoner's Friends on the other side, gave out, This was a blow proceed∣ing from the Cardinal Mazarin, who neither would, or knew how to return to Paris, whilst he had so considerable a Rival, that was supported by so many Friends, who were Enemies unto him: That he kept aloof from Paris, on purpose that he might not be known for the Contriver of this business, and for fear lest the people rising in favour of the Prisoner, should make him feel the effects of their long continued hatred and rancour against him. But whether it were so, or otherwise, the Cardinal Mazarin declared he had no part in the action; and for proof thereof writ unto his Majesty a very favourable Letter on the Prisoner's be∣half; he represented to his Majesty, That by reason of the Character he bare of the most Christian King, he was obliged to defend the Immunities of the Church;

and therefore he m••st earnestly besought him that he would have in this case such re∣gards as were fit for his Royal Piety, and the Title he had of being first-born Son un∣to the Church, recommending unto him with all earnestness the Interests of the Pri∣soner.

Upon this Letter several Judgments were made; Many were of opinion he dealt not therein clearly from his heart, but endeavoured to palliate the Crime, whereof himself was the sole Author, and that this was an Ar∣tifice which had been long before premeditated: Others who knew the execution thereof to be un••oreseen and causual, were satisfied that Maza∣rine was in his nature rather obliging than revengeful towards his Enemies, thought it to be an effect of his good inclination, proceeding from a desire to oblige that Prelat by so remarkable a benefit, to a reciprocal return of kindness, and to a generous emulation of corresponding to so noble and in∣genuous a carriage: These were not any way mistaken, because it appeared after, that Cardinal Mazarin had used his utmost endeavour to gain Re••z, and to remove those sinister conceptions which he had of him; and that he failed in the Design, was an effect of the incorrigible nature of Cardinal de Retz, envious of the glory and good fortune of Mazarine.

Many others of the most considerable Persons amongst the Clergy, em∣ployed themselves in his favour; but Politick respects prevailing before the satisfaction of particular Persons, made it evidently manifest, his Majesty had no other ends, but the happiness and quiet of his Subjects.

And because the Court of Rome should have no occasion of offence there∣by against France, for having done an Act so much abominated by the Canon Laws, there was a Courrier dispatched unto the Pope, to give him an ac∣count of the whole business.

The Friends of the imprisoned Cardinal sent thither also another some few hours after, to complain unto his Holiness of that violence, and to engage him in the Prisoner's protection. The News in a few days after reached Rome; and the Pope, who had little affection for the French (and least of all for Mazarine) was wonderfully nettled at it, and if he had power equal to his will, possibly some things of consequence had been resolved, and put in execution: He assembled forthwith Congregations of the most able Cardi∣nals his Confidents, and although there wanted not some moderate Persons amongst them, who failed not to represent that in a matter so delicate much circumspection ought to be used; Orders were notwithstanding sent to Mon∣sieur Marini Archbishop of Avignon, That he should (together with the Offi∣cers of his Court) transport himself to Paris, and there framing a Process touching the Crimes whereof the Prisoner was accused, should require to have the Judgment of them left unto the See Apostolick, to which only be∣longs the power of giving Sentence against Cardinals.

But as at Rome they were most certain, That having formerly refused to receive Monsignor Corsino Nuntius Elect into France, only because he came without first giving notice unto the King, or his Ministers of his arrival, they would much less receive the Archbishop with his Commission; and that therefore they resolved a thing which could not take effect: So it was plain∣ly understood at Paris that this was the advice of those, who desired to fur∣nish the Popedom with pretexts of blaming France, for want of respect t••∣wards the See Apostolick, and to give the Pope occasion to joyn with the Ene∣mies of that Crown; there being some in Rome, as well as Paris, who beli••∣ved the King would not have dared to contradict the Pope in that unhappy conjuncture of Affairs, and that therefore this bold resolution of sending the Archbishop Marini into France, would add very much to the reputation of his Holiness, and splendor of the Ecclesiastical Authority.

The Prince Cardinal Trivultio (who was then in Rome, as the Person intru∣sted with management of the Interests of Spain, and as Ambassadour to his Catholick Majesty) wisely foresaw the vanity of this resolution, notwith∣standing that he endeavoured always (as a good Minister of State) to conti∣nue in his Holiness the sinister impressions against France, yet he approved not this advice; shewing plainly the ill success was likely to attend it: This Prince had executed this Function but from the 25th of November the year before, which had been put upon him in the manner, and for the Reasons following. The Cardinal of Arragon being dead shortly after his Promoti∣on (which was very much delayed, either as not cordially sollicited by the Cardinal Albernaz (who desired not that a Competitor of such a Qua∣lity and Kinsman of Don Louis d' Aro should prevail) or to facilitate the Promotion of the Count d'Ognate;) the Cardinal di Cuena was at the same time sent, or called back unto his residence at Malega, whereupon his Ca∣tholick Majesty ordered Trivultio to leave the Government of Sardinia, and repair suddenly to Rome, to supply the Cardinal of Arragon's place who was destined thither, and gave him all the Spiritual Promotions in Italy, which became void by his death. But Trivultio being unable to go the Voyage so speedily, because he was first to quiet the Kingdom (which by reason of some private accidents was in commotion,) the death of Don Anthonio Ronchiglio happened, (whom Don Iohn of Austria at his parting from Sicily had left Pre∣sident there) whereupon the Duke Dell. Infantado, who was Ambassadour at Rome, being appointed Vice-Roy there, the Cardinal Trivultio received new Orders to hasten his Journey, that he might enter upon the charge of his Embassy.

The Affair happened directly according to Trivultio his Presage, because the proceedings of the Roman Court which had no other foundation but the opinion and desire of those who promoted it, was suddenly quashed, when the entry of the Archbishop Marini into the Kingdom was stop't by Maza∣rine, who knew the nature of the French, very easily inclined to pleasing No∣velties, but inflexible to such resolutions as threaten them; in which they consider nothing but to maintain the King's Authority: And the French shewed themselves to be ill satisfied with the Court of Rome, reproaching it for partiality, for that whereas there had been several applications made un∣to it the year before, to represent the Injuries done by the Parliament of Paris to Cardinal Mazarine, against all Humane, and Divine Laws, without any legal accusation, or just authority, contrary to the King's Pleasure, who justified and owned him for his Faithful Servant, when a reward of 50000 Crowns was set upon his head, besides the Confiscation of all his Goods, the Pope had not concerned himself at all in his protection, who had then no other support but his Holiness (the King's Authority being trodden under foot and violated;) whereas there was now so great a Noise for the Impri∣sonment onely of the Cardinal de Retz, to which his Majesty was necessitated for the Publike good, and maintenance of the Royal Authority, against which Retz was accused to have long plotted; and the rather, because his Christian Majesty had no other intention but to hinder his proceedings therein; not to make his Process, and much less to judge him, as knowing well the same belonged onely unto Christ's Vicar; Although the Parliament had arrogated to themselves an authority to do it against Mazarine, without any of those cautions, necessary to be used by any who bear Reverence to Ho∣ly Church.

These and the like Reasons were given by the French; who also urged the President of Lewis the 11th King of France, that imprisoned, and kept the Cardinal Ballua many years in restraint, holding correspondence with his

Majestie's Brother, and the Duke of Burgundy; and yet the Pope interposed onely by Fatherly Admonitions, and Requests for his delivery, although the things whereof he was accused, were nothing in comparison of what de Retz was charged withal. They said farther, That the King had procured this Dig∣nity for his Subject, to oblige him unto a greater diligence in his Service; not to protect him in any thing prejudicial unto his Crown: That all things necessary for maintenance of their Kingdoms, were lawful unto Soveraign Princes; but all things were not permitted to Subjects which conduced unto their satisfaction: That none ingaged himself in the defence, or gave a more intire obedience unto the Popes in matters of the Church, then the Most Christian King, for which he had been al∣waies willing to expose his Crown; but he ought likewise in the Interests of State, to take to heart the good and quiet of his Subjects, unto whom he was a most indulgent Father.

The disgust which the choice of Monsieur Corsino gave to the Court of France sprang hence; his Majestie's Ambassadour at Rome having received some inckling that the Pope intended to send another Nuntio in lieu of Mon∣sieur the Marquess of Bagni, gave notice to his Holiness, That in case he in∣tended such a thing, 'twere fit he should first declare what Prelate he intended to in∣trust with that Imployment; that he might know whether he were a person would be grateful to his Majestie. The Pope pretended to have no such thought; but ••ome few days after published the Election of the said Monsignior Corsino. The Ambassadour gave present notice of the disgust his Majesty would take at the manner of this Election, rather then for the quality of the person, who was in himself very considerable, and one to whom his Majesty had no other exception. But the Pope insisting, That he had no obligation to send onely such Nuntio's as should be pleasing to the Princes unto whom they went, as he obliged not them to send him onely such Ambassadours as he approved, continued positive in what he had before resolved, as conceiving that to al∣ter him, would prejudice the Reputation of the Holy See; and commanded the Nuntio to prosecute his Voyage,

The Kings of France pretend (chiefly in time of Warr) not to receive any Nuntio's or Legate from the Pope, but one that shall be to their satisfa∣ction, for a reason which obliges no other Prince besides the Popes; viz. Be∣cause it happens often, that those Prelates who are sent are not Subjects of the Church, but of some other Italian Prince (as this Corsino was, being a Flo∣rentine); and because (although they were the Churches Subjects) they might be Pensioners to other Princes, therefore France hath not thought fit to accept any, before an Information given of his quality, lest they might otherwise receive into their house, one who was an enemy, or of their party; For this cause therefore and no other, the Kings of France have used to require that they may be advertised before a Nuntio be chosen, and therefore Mon∣signior Corsino was stopped in Provence; but afterwards upon Treaty, it be∣ing known that this Prelate was independent of any but the Pope, he was admitted, and had been certainly received, had not the accident of Cardi∣nal Retz, and sending of the Archbishop of Avignon, given a stop to the whole Business.

The Imprisonment of this Cardinal, who was one of the principal supports of the Faction Della Fronda, did break and totally destroy it, because although there remained yet some reliques of this fire, they were such feeble sparks as of themselves could raise no flame; and therefore the King's Authority growing more vigorous, proceeded in the Execution of all those Councels which were esteemed proper for restoring the Kingdome into its pristine splendour.

The King's Revenues were by these Troubles very much diminished, and

therefore the business for Money was very pressing, vast Debts being con∣tracted, and the Credit of the Court being reduced unto the utmost extre∣mity, notwithstanding that his Majestie's Annual Revenue amounted to more than Eight Millions of Dobloones of Gold. There were therefore ma∣ny Decrees for raising Money made by his Majesty, which were the last day of December verified, and Registred in Parliament in his Majestie's presence, with all readiness, although they were Thirteen in number; To which was added one Clause to sweeten them, viz. That this Relief should be employed in the most urgent Business of the Kingdom, and particularly in payment of the Soul∣diery. And those Edicts the 7th of Ianuary following were also verified in the Chamber of Accompts, and the Court of Ayds, in presence of the Duke of Anjou, who was sent thither by his Majesty to that purpose.

Together with these good Reliefs unto the Civil Government, the Mar∣tial Affairs began to be managed with a new vigour, and good success; con∣sidering the loss and ruines which had happened to the King; and the whole Kingdom, not only in the parts of Flanders, and Guienne, but also in Italy, and Catalonia, in which Province Cardinal Mazarine (having resolved to maintain a brisk Warr, that the Spaniard might be thereby diverted from sending great supplies to other parts) had caused the Town of Roses to be seasonably relieved with some Barks of Provision, sent thither from Provence by the Duke of Mercoeur, and with the Regiment of Foot of Anjou, com∣manded by Monsieur Friquembaut; by whose arrival there was discovered a notable Treason plotted in the place, by one Ganot an Intendant, married to a Catalonian Woman, handsome enough, and wanton, and therefore much frequented by the Garrison.

She with her blandishments, and arts, prevailed upon her Husband to treat with the Spaniard, made a great progress therein, and wrought so power∣fully in the minds, not onely of the Officers of the Garrison, but of the Houshold Servants also of the Marquess de Fara, Governour of the place, that even his most antient, and reputed most faithful Servants, were engaged in this amorous Frenzy, and became complices in the Treason; by a wonder∣ful and almost incredible example, wherein 'twas seen, that the allurements of a lascivious imagination, prevailed against the obligation of their vowed Loyalty, unto the loss of their Reputation, and the destruction of their Lives and Fortunes.

The design of this Conspiracy was to kill the Governour at a certain Post, one Night as he went the Round, and then to open the Gates unto the Spanish Troops, who under the Command of the Baron of Sabac, were entrench'd near unto them. The coming of this new Recruit cooled the Affair, and drew it out at length, because the Officers of this new Succour were to be treated withal, and gained, whereby it came to be so long delayed, that the Plot was discovered in this manner:

There was a Spanish Drum used to go, and return, for Exchange of Priso∣ners, and other Occurrences of Warr, by whom Ganot used to communicate all things with the Enemy; it came into the Governour's Mind one day to have him searched, and see what Letters he carried, whether they were the same which he shewed as he went out of the Port, the Governour's Brother a young Cavalier took them from him; and the Drum growing first pale, and then blushing upon the taking of them from him, put the Cavalier into some suspicion of him; he brought the Letters unto the Governour, who finding them the same which had been at first shewed, thought no farther of it; but as he was upon the point of restoring the Letters, and discharging of the Drum, it came into his mind that Ganot himself had taught him to write with a certain water, the Characters whereof could not be seen but

near the fire; he thought therefore to review these Letters, and try it, per∣haps they had the secret of this water; and by that means the whole business came to be discovered.

Ganot was forthwith called, and strictly examined, whether he knew any thing of the Conspiracy, which the Spaniards had about the betraying of the place, and desired if he did, he would discover it, promising him pardon, and ••ecrecie in the Affair (this the Governour did to make him serve as a double Instrument, that he might countermine the Enemies Designes) Ga∣not denied it absolutely; but being afterwards convinced by these Letters, he suddenly abandoned himself unto that baseness which is usually the com∣panion of guilt, confessed the whole, and all his Accomplices; who being seized upon, and tried by a Court-Marshal, to the number of above twenty, were cast, and suffered deservedly an ignominious death; amongst whom (to the admiration of all) was one Giardeni Secretary to the Governour, a person who had long served him, and had in many occasions by experience been found trusty, and of an unblemisht reputation.

In Guienne the King's Armies began to prosper, by degrees, as those of the Bourdelois grew weaker, who were divided amongst themselves, and go∣verned by particular Interests and Passions. The Duke of Candale, who (as hath been already said) was sent to Command his Majestie's Forces in that Province in lieu of the Count d' Harcourt, took presently the Castle of Pi∣niols, and seized upon Marmanda and Arguillon Towns fortified after the an∣cient manner, scituated beyond Bourdeaux and Agen on this side of the Ga∣ronne; and being afterwards informed that the Count Marsin had caused the Colonel Baltassar to pass the Garonne with five or 600 Horse, to gain some advantage by the division of the Cavalier d' Aubeterra's Troops, which were placed in Garrison, and that he had also made Monsieur di Bas, Mareschal de Campe to march towards Granada; he sent Orders to the said Cavalier d' Au∣betterre to be watchful unto the preservation of the Town, as a Post which would be of great advantage to the Enemy, because it not only hindred their entrance into the Country of Chalosse and Armagnac, but made him Master of the River of Adour, which is the principal Stream of all that Pro∣vince, the which having for its Head a Fountain called Cap Adour, in the Mountain of Tourmalet, in the Barrois, washes the Soyl of Bigorne, the Ci∣ties of Turbe and of Aire, and after receiving into her self the Rivers of Isle, Leckez, Larras upon the Confines of Bigorre, and Gascoigne, and after of Lons and Douse, passeth to Mugron, where growing Navigable, with a less rapid course it discharges it self into the Ocean near to Baione.

To hinder this Design Aubeterre rallied his Troops with so much diligence and so good fortune, that in less than thirty hours he had gotten together more than three hundred Horse, and better than four hundred Musquetiers, with which he forthwith marched against the Enemy, but finding him pos∣sessed already of the said Post of Grenada, he advanced notwithstanding to the Banks of Douse, in a place called San Mauritio, where had already passed 100 Horse, and as many Foot, whom he set upon, and charged so briskly, that almost all their Foot were lost, either by the Sword, or by the River, the Horse saving themselves by a hasty flight, and rallying behind the River with a Squadron of Horse as great as the other, and five hundred Musque∣tiers.

The King's Troops forthwith passed the River with so much fury, that those of the Princes terrified with fear, after they had given one Volley of Shot with their Fire-arms, all fled, recommending their safety unto the swift∣ness of their flight. Monsieur D' Avennes who commanded a Squadron of d' Aubeterre his Regiment, with the Monsieurs de Troe and Villeneuf, Officers

of the Regiment of Crequi, following them with extraordinary diligence, attacqued them so furiously, that amongst the dead and Prisoners, were ac∣counted more than one hundred and fifty Irish, and amongst them was ta∣ken Monsieur Faget, eldest Captain; and Serjeant Major of Baltassar, and Mon∣sieur de Danansin mortally wounded; those who escaped shut themselves up into Grenada, against which place the same Cavalier d' Aubeterre forthwith advanced with some Recruits come unto him from Mont de Marsan, being a Town with a Bridge upon the said River of Douse; but he was not expected by the Enemy, for they escaping privately in the night time, escaped to Tortas, the most important place they had in all that Quarter, standing upon the same Ri∣ver of Douse, and fortified with strong Walls, ancient Turrets, and a nume∣rous Garrison.

The Duke of Candale after these fortunate Encounters, having first assu∣red himself of Mont de Marsan, and other Towns in those Quarters by suffi∣cient Garrisons, and banishing such of the Inhabitants as he found ill-affect∣ed, left there Aubeterre with part of the Cavalry, and himself returned to∣wards the Garonne, unto another Body of his men commanded by the Mar∣quess de Camilla Lieutenant-General of the Army. Some few days after be∣ing advertised that Monsieur de San Mico marched towards Roquefort, a place in the Countrey d' Albret beyond Mont de Marsan, and Prazas, with the Regiment of Conti, consisting of 400 Foot, and with 100 Horse, to pos∣sess that place by means of the Intellgence he had with some of the Inhabi∣tants corrupted by Monsieur de Pruque Captain of the Regiment of Guitaur, he marched to encounter him with the greatest force he could draw out of his Garrisons, and overtaking them as they were taking up their Quarters in the very Suburbs of Roquefort, he commanded the Cavalier Birague to make an attempt upon them with the Forlorn-hope, assuring him that he should be relieved and seconded; which being punctually executed, more than forty Souldiers of the Enemy were slain, and the rest enforced to shut themselves up in another Suburb, which was entrenched; at the same time there appeared beyond the River a Squadron of Horse, which was violently pursued even to the Town-gates; into which Aubeterre sent a Trumpet un∣to the Baron de Marsan who was Governour of the Town, to offer him re∣lief, which he refused; assuring him, He was in a condition to defend himself with the strength he had, and that he need not doubt his fidelity to the King's Ser∣vice.

This good Answer made Aubeterre get to Horse, that he might find and fight the Enemy; but having notice by the way that they came with de Mi∣co from facing San Iustin, a place within the County d' Albret, scituated be∣tween the Rivers Gelixe and Douse, pursued by the Cavalier de Paris, and Monsieur de Serigeux with so good fortune that the Commander of them had hardly saved himself with only five Horse of threescore that he had with him; he resolved to pursue the Run-aways, and clear that Country from the Prince's Forces.

But being at the same time advertised, that the Town of Roquefort, and the Baron of Marsan against his Parole given, instead of defending the Town for the King, had received Colonel Baltassar with the Princes Forces, he marched forthwith thitherward with those few Horse he had then with him, that he might be revenged upon them; but hearing upon the way that Baltassar had taken San Iustin, and la Bastida shamefully rendred to him, where he was fortifying to make himself a Winter-quarter, he forthwith changed his Design, and thought it better to march against Bastida, within which were the Regiments of Leran and di Guitauld, with 200 Foot and 100 Horse

of Conti's under the Command of the said Leran, who was a Mareschal de Campo.

He joyned himself for this Design with the Monsieurs Dalidor and ••eilch, who had with them a good Body of Horse; and upon the 26th of Ianuary they drew near unto the place▪ D••••idor with some Horse that dismounted, attacqued the Gate▪ and forced i••▪ giving entrance to Aubeterre and his Com∣panions, but finding a strong B••••ricado notably defended by de Leran and his Souldiers, the King's Forces were with some loss repulsed, and forced to seek •• better way to gain their purpose.

They caused therefore the Barricado to be attacqued on three sides by a false Al••arm, and in the mean time the Souldiers entred into some Houses upon another side, from whence firing upon the backs of those who defend∣ed the Barricado, they forced them to quit it, and retire into the great Church, which standing in the middle of a large Piazza, they fortified themselves within i••; Dalidor forthwith without loss of time advancing under the Wall, gained with great Valour the Breast-work drawn by the Enemy before the Doors, and then the Cavalier d' Aubeterre gave sudden notice to Leran, that he should lay down Arms, and yield, or otherwise he should have no Quar∣ter.

Leran made Articles, That liberty being given to himself and the Staff-Offi∣cers to retire themselves where they thought good, the Souldiers and the other Officers should remain Prisoners of War: Which being executed, there remained Prisoners with the Kings Forces more than 200 Foot, and about 300 Horse, with all their Baggage.

The Enterprise was Noble and very Honourable to the King's Comman∣ders, although they lost therein about forty of their own men, together with Monsieur della Chappelle; and this fortunate encounter facilitated also the gaining of Mas d' Aginois, which presently rendred it self without much re∣sistance; after this Action the King and Princes Forces scouring every where over that fertile, and late peaceable Campagne, rendred the Inhabitants thereof as unhappy, as the Bourdelois had shewed themselves imprudent, in drawing on their own shoulders a War, only to please others, whereby they could reap nothing but an irrevocable ruine, an eternal infamy, and in case the Arms of the Male-contents should have prevailed, a slavery to them∣selves, instead of the mild Government of their lawful and most gracious Soveraign.

These Maximes were notwithstanding understood by some, and had possi∣bly been followed with effect, in case the wavering multitude without cause o•• reason had not suffered themselves to be governed by a blind fury, and inconsiderate ambition.

In this mean the Sc••nes for the Ballet were preparing in Paris, and the Prince of Conti in Bourdeaux, together with the Princesses, his Cousin, and Sister, being invited by the Carneval-Season, that they might win upon the minds, and please the simple People, and especially the rude multitude, greedy of Novelties, and delighted with pompous Shews, celebrated the Solemnity of the Christening of the Prince of Conde his Second Son, born the Sept. before; wherein (according to the Prince of Conde's Orders) were God-fathers, the Jurates of the City, and the Dutchess of Longueville his Sister, who adorn∣ed pompously with all her Jewels went to the Cathedral of the City, attend∣ed by the Cavalier Todias, first Jurate, and the Count Marsin, (who held the Infant) the Prince of Conti, the Duke of Anguien, and all the Principal Ca∣valiers and Officers of the Party being also present.

The City after made a magnificent Feast and Banquet, which was scram∣bled

at by those of the Olmiera; and there were also made for some days fol∣lowing other Balls, and Bonfires, with Justs, Tiltings, Comedies, and Masques, as if that Countrey had felt nothing of War or Misery.

In the mean time divers secret Plots were driven on for the reducing of Bourdeaux to his Majesties Obedience; and it was a matter of difficulty to reduce that powerful and warlike City, so they made use of Industry and Art for the effecting of it. The Father Faur, a Franciscan, who was after made Bishop of Glandeues, a man subtle and zealous in his Majesties Service, who had much contributed to the reduction of Paris, proposed also the form∣ing of some Intelligence in the City of Bourdeaux it self, by means of the Fathers of his Order.

To this effect there was sent thither Father Bertaut, Guardian of Breda, to settle an Intelligence with the Father Ithier Superior of the Franciscan Convent in Bourdeaux, who carried with him several Orders fit for advan∣cing the Design, according as Accidents should fall out. Bertaut being dis∣covered by the Prince of Conti, escaped from his hands with great dexterity, having upon pretence of kindness told him many falshoods to conceal from him the true knowledg of the Design, and of the persons acting in it; but the Father Ithier was not at all moved therewith, because knowing himself to be gratious, and welbeloved by the Citizens, he hoped, That although his De∣signs should be discovered by some accident, yet he should be protected by them; and the rather, because he was assured that there were many, who groaned under the Ty∣ranny of the Olmiera, who with inconsiderate precipitation, went on, and were upon the point of ruining the Countrey, and Religion, by Treaties with the English to give them entrance into Guienne. They concluded therefore, that there was no better or more secure a way, than to gain some of the principal persons of the Olmiera.

The Mother Angelica, Abbess of the discalsed Carmelites, gave occasion thereof to the Father Ythier, and discovered to him that one of her Con∣vent, Sister unto Villars, had told her how▪ well he was disposed to return unto his Majestie's obedience, touched with remorse of Conscience, and the apprehension of a miserable end, due to his crimes; and he had therefore prayed his Sister, That she together with her company, would pray to God to give him strength, and courage, to amend his life.

The Father Ythier doubted not to discover himself unto the Nun, and to perswade her to keep her Brother fixed in his good purpose. Villars under∣took to restore the City to the King's obedience, provided his Majesty would grant a General Act of Oblivion to all, to himself the charge of Procurator, and Syndiche to the Community, and the summe of 40000 Crowns to be distributed amongst those, who should be instrumental in it. The Court assented to the Proposition, and upon the Father's request gave order, That no violence should be offered unto the Prince or Princesses within the Town. The design proceeded hopefully, and would easily have been effected, if Villars (unconstant in his resolution) had not revealed the whole Plot; which happened upon a bare surmise of Signior Lenet, who gave out that he knew there was a new party framing in Bourdeaux, wherein many that professed great Service to the Princes had a hand: Villars believing that some one of the Conspirators had discovered it unto Lenet, and fearing that he should be ruined, cast how to save himself by revealing the whole Treaty unto the Prince of Conty; he said, That he had not engaged himself therein, but to obtain thereby a clearer knowledg of it, and be able to make a f••••ler discovery unto the Prince, which was the cause he had not given him an earlier knowledge of it. The Prince told him, That he was well assured of his fidelity, and should never believe other of him; and therefore gave him Orders to continue his intelligence with

them, that he might observe them better, and discover all the complices therein. That he might have the stronger proof against Father Ythier, he obliged by solemn Oath Blaraut, and Giuraut, Gold••miths, that they should go to receive the Money promised by his Majesty, whereof 1500 double Pi∣stols were consigned. So as upon their Examination, and Depositions, the Father was imprisoned, and brought before a Councel, in which Marsin Pre∣sided, and where were present many of the Olmiera, and some Officers of the Army, there a contest rose, Whether Secular persons might sit in Iudgment upon Clergy-men? but 'twas not there resolved.

The Prince of Conti and Dutchess of Longueville gave positive Orders he should not die, but be kept Prisoner; Marsin, and Lenet, whose endeavour was to make the people furious, caused some Carters to cry out, Tolle, tolle, Crucifige; wherewith some of the Judges being much troubled, with incensed Countenances said, They were not Iewes, and if the others were not Christians, they might go look them out a Pilate; for their parts, they intended not to dip their hands in innocent blood. Whereat Marsin was much troubled, and to end the Dispute, caused him to be condemned to be publickly Carted; which caused a Spectacle of great compassion through the City, and brought much blame and hatred upon the Princes Party, because the Father being carried about, shouted at, reviled, and suffering a thousand insolencies from the rude multitude, went undisturbed, not moved either with the apprehension of death, or any injuries were done unto him, as if he had been going to a glo∣rious Triumph. This his demeanour and fearless, yet full of humility, and patience, so moved the People, that they were forced to return him forth∣with unto the Prison, from whence he came; and because they had taken away his habit, the Dutchess of Longueville misliking such barbarism, gave order to have it restored, and that the insolency of the People should be re∣pressed. There was after this a Cousin of the same Father apprehended, who was privy to all his Transactions, to whom was given a strange Tor∣ment; but he, as if it had been nothing, suffered the same with a wonder∣ful, and incredible patience, never opening his mouth of any thing touching the matter. The same morning that Father Ythier was taken, there were also arrested the President Dafis, and the Councellor Borde, and Castel••are, and committed to the Castle du Ha; who were after released on their Pa∣rols. Dafis, that he might free himself from all intrigues, took a Pass to go unto his Brother.

At the same time there was a Treaty by another Frier, called Lande, to∣gether with a Gentlewoman called de Lune, to gain the Colonel Marché, who gave ear unto the sollicitations of the Frier's Brother, and communicated his design with this Widow, which was to make use of 100 Light Horse that he had hard by the Town, to put a Gate thereof into the Duke of Candale's hand, praying her to write unto him touching the same, and to desire he would direct the means fit for the putting it in Execution: This Plot was also com∣municated with the Jurate Rubert, but at last Marchè himself discovered it unto Marsin, and some few dayes after Lande acquainted the Prince of Conty with it, whereupon the Gentlewoman was imprisoned, long examined, and confronted with Lande, who justified it to him, that himself was the Au∣thor of the whole Plot, and therefore was a Traytor and a Villain. The ingenuity of this Lady was more favoured than the Accusers Information, who was afterwards arrested and banished by the Olmiere, and the Gentle∣woman released, and permitted to return to her own house in the Coun∣trey.

Mean while the City of Monsegur, wherein was garrison'd the Marquess of Monpruilla••'s Regiment, was given up to the King's Party, together with

their own Officers, upon pretence that they owed them 2000 Doubloons of their Pay, they put themselves into his Majestie's Service; imprisoned the Commissary of the Quarters, from whom they took a good sum of Money, which he had raised upon the Neighbourhood; but they released him after, together with some of Marsin's Officers, who at that time besieged Saint Fermo a little Town hard by: This was the Prologue unto the ruine of the Princes Party, who were forsaken by the best of their Troops, wearied with living in perpetual action, without any hopes of profit or reward, wherewith the Princes had endeavoured to sweeten all the Travels and hard∣ships of their Party.

There followed after this divers other Accidents that much weakned the said Party, which having no other foundation but the hope of bettering their Fortunes, in lieu thereof met with unlooked for violences and op∣pression: A certain Ingineer was imprisoned, and 3500 Doubloons taken from him, under colour that he had blamed the new form of Government; from another called de Tuches, they took 500 Doubloons, upon pretence that he had written to Paris the News which past at Bourdeaux; there was a Vessel seised, and 25000 Crowns belonging to some Holland Merchants con∣fiscated, which she was carrying to Rochel, being raised by Corn sold in that City, declaring the same to be Counter-band Goods; by which and such-like proceedings, Merchant-strangers, and the most able Citizens were extreme∣ly exasperated, seeing that without shame or Conscience, they stopped at no unjust or barbarous action: About this time, that is, upon the first of Fe∣bruary, the Duke of Vendosme appeared with his Fleet in the Garonne, and presently began to build a Fort in the Isle of Cazaux, scituated i'th middest of the River, and therefore of great importance, and no small annoyance to those of Bourdeaux, amongst whom there being many inwardly affected to his Majesty, it was necessary the r••st should be watchful and vigilant against Stratagems and Surprises, which in such occasions are often practi∣sed. And because the Curate of St. Peter's Church had in a publick Sermon exhorted those of his Parish to shake off the yoke of that slavery they suffer∣ed under an unjust Authority, usurped over them by the base Councel of the Olmiera, he was by order of the Prince of Conti arrested, and committed to Prison; but the people of his Parish rising in a tumult upon his carrying to Prison, he caused him to be released, and sent away, fearing that something worse might happen; because such Persons as are admitted to teach the Word of God have great influence upon the people when they perswade un∣to peace, and to a quiet life; and for this cause were also banished the Cu∣rates of St. Simon, and St. Ramy, together with the Priors and Guardians of the Dominicans and Capuchines, divers Councellors of Parliament, and several Citizens, who chose rather to suffer any persecution, than to run along with a Faction which was directly contrary unto the the Service of his Majesty; so as the Parliament (which at that time was by his Ma••esty transferred to Agen) lessened so fast, that there remained in Bourdeaux only nine Councellors, most of which were so terrified and confounded, that they knew not well what they were doing.

The Parliament transferred, began their meeting in Agen the third of March, the Signor de Lane second President presided at the opening of it; in the presence of the Duke of Candale, the Bishop of the City, and several other Persons of Quality, who assembled upon that occasion: But in Bour∣deaux the suspicion of some new Conspiracie still encreasing, all diligence possible was used to prevent it, and maintain the Prince's power: Publick Proclamation was made, That all strangers without employment should depart the City; all Hosts, Taverners, and such as let Lodgings were forbid

to lodge, or receive any, without a billet from the Magistrate, or his De∣puty. All Conventicles were forbidden, and all Night walking after the Tap-too, and vigilant Guards being set every where, they were very watch∣ful against surprizes; and the rather, because the Souldiers and Captains of the Royal Party, drew more and more down into the neigbouring Towns and Provinces.

And forasmuch as the taking of Sarlat, Sallagnat, Tetrason, and other wal∣led Towns of Perigord by the Prince's Forces, gave them the means of scou∣ring all the Neighbouring quarters unto the great damage of the Province, the Marquess Pampadour, Lieutenant of the Province of Limousin, gathering together some Gentlemen, and divers Troops garrison'd at Nontron, and other adjacent places under the Command of Monsieur de Brusquet Savagnac, Mareschal de Campo, and divers others drawn out of the Marquess de Mont∣brun, and Count de Pardillian, their Regiments, under the Command of Monsieur de Baradas, Maistre de Campo, took a resolution to march against the Enemy who kept at St. Roberts, in the County of Agen, and by cutting off their way to Terrason, to oblige them unto an engagement. This design was no sooner discovered by the Enemy, but they resolved to expect the coming of the King's Forces upon a rising ground, where they drew up be∣ing 600 Foot, and as many Horse, commanded by Monsieur de la Roche.

Pampadour being well pleased to see the resolution of his Enemies corre∣spond with his desire, sent Monsieur de Brusquet with the Regiment of St. An∣dre, to engage them, and himself with the other Squadrons followed to re∣lieve him. The Prince's Troops made some resistance; but after the first charge, being frighted with the fury of St. Andre's old Horse, and not ac∣customed to such fierce engagements, suddenly turned their backs, and fled: The Foot abandoned by the Horse, casting down their Arms, cryed, God save the King; and without moving yielded to the discretion of the Conquerors, who by this Victory, besides the gain of all their Baggage, freed their Coun∣trey from the continual trouble of these Souldiers, who were so much the more licentious, by how much they were straightned in their pay, and dis∣pleased with the Princes, whom they served. The Town of Montignac, sci∣tuate upon the Bank of the Dordogne, belonging to the Marquess of Hautefort, gave testimony of an Exemplary Loyalty, when instead of subscribing the Accord with the Count Marsin, as did the other Towns of Perigord, they took Arms, and did not only maintain themselves in the obedience due to His Majesty, but also did all the hurt they could unto the Prince's Troops, as they did also in this Action of St. Roberto, where Monsieur de Boulon issuing out with some Firelocks by Order of Monsieur de Radon Governour of that Castle, they presently gave them chase, and took several Prisoners.

The Castle of St. Surin was also besieged, and taken by the Royalists, it was rendred at discretion, and the Captain Trinquet who commanded there, was carried prisoner to Blaye: There followed also the taking of divers other Castles, and Walled Towns, which with some small dispute either rendred themselves, or were taken by force of Arms, whereby the Prince's Troops came to be straightned into a narrow compass, and the greatest part of the Inhabitants by their example were perswaded to return unto their du∣ty, by submitting to his Majestie's Authority.

These good Successes in Guienne were seconded by other Accidents which were of great advantage to the King's Party; for the Newes came, That on the 28th of February there had been a great Fight at Sea between the English and the Hollanders, wherein each Party taking themselves to have the bet∣ter, and the loss of Ships being almost equal, the Victory remained undeci∣ded: And this Engagement of the English in a Warr against the Hollanders,

hid••red them from being able to embrace those resolutions against France, which otherwise they might have done, by assisting those of Bourdeaux to the great prejudice of the Crown of France; which would have run great hazard, being attacked on the one side by the powerful Forces of the King of Spain, and on the other by Intestine Broyls, if at the same time it had been also assaulted by the English: But the good Fortune of France, subordi∣nate unto the Will of God, which disposeth all things according to the order of his Providence, preserved in that conjuncture this most Christian King∣dom, from receiving prejudice by that Nation different in Religion, and Customes, which at that time met with the fairest opportunity that might be to have wrought her ends; it being governed then by a violent party, had she not undertaken Enterprises different from what was expected, and being confounded within her self, had not given leisure to the King's Authority to gather strength, and to destroy the force of those who being disobedient themselves, endeavoured by their Cabal to bring all the rest into confu∣sion.

This was by the Warr with Holland, of which I shall onely touch the prin∣cipal Motives, because I would not with long digressions break off the thred of that Narration I have prescribed unto my self.

After the Parliament of England had made it self Master of that whole Kingdom, and overcome with its Victorious Arms, the Realms of Scotland, and of Ireland, they cast about how to maintain themselves in Arms with Forrainers, having no Enemy at home; because in times of quiet, Factions use to arise, and Armies weaken, which brings ruine to Commonwealths, especially in the beginning of a new Government, when their minds are wavering between the hopes of settlement, and fears of falling.

It happened then that no just cause appearing for a breach with France, they took a fair pretence for a Warr with the Hollander, as being those who having gained a considerable reputation at Sea, seemed to eclipse the lustre of the long feared, and unresistible force of the English, on that Element.

These Jealousies, between them (besides the natural Emulation usual amongst bordering States) were heightned by the art and industry of the neighbouring Crowns, who observing with a jealous Eye, two Common∣wealths by their sides, grown powerful, by Warr and Violence, could not but suspect from them some of those inconveniencies, which are usually of∣fered by those who are strongly provided with Sea Forces: The cause of difference was the Herring Fishing about the Orcades, (Islands on the North of Scotland, and Members of Great Britain) to which the Hollanders send yearly a vast number of Ships, and draw from it an excessive Profit. The English pretended, That the Hollanders possession of this Fishing was an effect onely of the negligence of their Kings, accompanied with so great a loss un∣to the Commonwealth by the Hollanders usurpation, and therefore not to be longer suffered by a Nation that, before Holland was so much as known, enjoyed without contest the principal Dominion of the Ocean. To this the States-General pleaded, That their Right was sufficiently established by their long continued possession, and Prescription.

This was the Motive upon which either party beginning first to raise For∣ces at Sea, the one for recovery of this loss, and the other for the preserving of it, fell afterwards to an open breach, with so great a prejudice to both parties, whose principal subsistence and strength depended upon Trade, that the same being hereby interrupted, produced all the effects of a miserable, and destructive Warr; but principally to Holland, which being straitned by the smallness of their Territory upon Land, had no means of subsisting, but by the Sea. To these Reasons which were derived from profit, and in∣terest

of State, were added others touching the punctilio of Reputation. The English pretending themselves to have been slighted by the Hollanders up∣on several occasions, and principally in the killing of their Ambassadour at the Hague, who was against the Law of Nations assassinated there, by some English of the King's Party.

And the Hollanders (who by their fresh and frequent Victories obtained against the Power of the King of Spain, had already gained so great a Repu∣tation, that they were generally much esteemed and feared; and had be∣sides concluded so advantageous a Peace with his Catholick Majesty) not daigning to give way unto the threats of England, wherein the wounds of their Intestine Broyls were yet fresh bleeding, took little care to satisfie the Parliament therein; but sent to Sea a numerous Fleet, and either Party fal∣ling to Acts of Hostility, many Merchants Ships were lost on either side. And their Fleets who were above 100 Sayl strong on either side, meeting at last, there passed the said Battle, and many other Fights at Sea, with loss on both sides; but in such manner, as each Party pretending to have the Victory, it could not be well told which side had got it, the loss consisting only in that of one or two Ships more or less than the Relations which were published, and therefore each Party failed not to put to Sea afresh, with an intention of fighting for it; the Hollanders notwithstanding were very sen∣sible of the loss of Van Trump, their General, a Person of great Valour and extraordinary Experience at Sea. And we may well believe, that as there is no comparison between the Greatness and Power of England and Holland, which is far inferior to it in richess, in extent of Land, and Bodies of men, so without doubt the English would have prevailed, had they not been distra∣cted by new intestine Broyls and Troubles.

The Court of France therefore considering how fit it was to make use of this favourable conjuncture of time to assure themselves of Guienne, and Bourdeaux a City so disposed to risings, resolved to make all fitting prepara∣tions for the reducing of them; and therefore besides the Fleet sent into the Garonne (as hath been said) and the advance of Souldiers from all parts into the Province, the Cardinal Mazarine continued the Treaties of Agreement with several Parties, to see if he could give an end rather by Composition than Arms unto that War, which being against Subjects, renders the Victo∣ry weak and languishing; whereof reserving the Account to the next Book, I will resume the Relation of what was done during this time in Champagne, where all persons being encouraged by the arrival of the Cardinal's Army, and the Recruits sent from him after the taking of Barleduc, and passing of the River Aisne, they besieged Chasteau Porcien, in which Monsieur de Bois∣son commanding with a strong and numerous Garrison of old Souldiers, ren∣dred the place very considerable, especially being in the heart of Winter, a time very unfit for Armies to keep the field.

This difficulty was overcome by the Cardinal himself, by whose presence (the Souldiers having an extraordinary love for him) all dangers seemed light, and were endured with a patience equal to that affection wherewith he was served and followed.

The Regiment d' Espagny, Commanded by its Colonel, attacqued the said Town of Chasteau Porcien by Orders from the Duke d' Elbeuf, and Mareschal d' Aumont; and the second of Ianuary at night possessed themselves thereof without resistance; the Enemy being retired into the Castle, from whence they fired fast upon the King's Forces, who had made there a Barricado, and taken up their Quarters, and some time after fell to mining; but because the besieged defended themselves obstinately, and threw great quantity of wild∣fire into the Town, wherewith many Houses were burned, this work was

hindred. The Count de St. Aignan first Gentleman of the King's Chamber, having Commanded in Chief the Body of an Army, was come as a Volun∣tier there to wait upon the Cardinal, as did also many other Lords and Great Persons; this Count with the good liking of the Duke d' Elbeuf, and Mareschal d' Aumont the Generals, began a new Mine, together with the Marquess d' Espagny, and Monsieur de Layeux, and St. Aignan being busied at the work where he wrought indefatigably with his wonted Courage; one night about five a Clock, as he returned, he was shot with a Musket in his left arm, and received a great Wound; but this accident hindred him not from running presently with Sword in hand before he was dressed to make Head against a S••lly, where the Besieged were valiantly received, and beat∣en back: At the last the Mine being compleated and ready to be fired, and another also of Monsieur de la Fronde, being in a good forwardness, the Ene∣mies seeing the works very much advanced by the assistance of the Cardinal, who (neglecting all thoughts of dangers) was never from the Work, yielded upon Articles, and marched out after six days respite, which were willingly accorded to them, to see if Conde would advance to relieve them, which he gave out that he would do; but he not appearing, they then issued out, and the Town was restored unto his Majestie's obedience.

The Prince of Conde knowing that without stronger succours it was im∣possible to give a stop unto the Cardinal's proceedings, and much troubled to see his Designes crossed, which were (as he told the Ministers of Spain) to winter in France, and maintain the War in that Kingdom, without Charge to Flanders, being much grieved, and perhaps repenting that he had put himself into that Action, began to cast away those hopes, which till then had born him up, and represented in time, not only to the Ministers of Flanders, but also to the Catholick King's Court, the necessity there was of a greater Force for the carrying on of that Affair: Writing (besides the Orders sent to Monsieur de St. Agolin his Agent in Madrid) unto the Favourite Don Lewis d' Aro, a Letter to the ensuing purpose.

MY LORD:

I Cannot possibly forbear longer to give your Excellency an account of the wretch∣ed condition wherein my Affairs stand, for want of those things which have been promised me; your Excellency knows with what patience I have seen (for want of Money) all my Concerns in Guienne to go to ruine; Paris, Montrond; Dijon, Bourges, and many other considerable places to be lost; and with what con∣stancy I have refused all the advantages have been offered me by the Court of France, for the observance of my promise; but I must now declare unto your Ex∣cellency, that I find my self reduced to the last point. The Cardinal Mazarine is returned into the Kingdom, hath got together all the Power of France, and is now come to drive me from my Winter-Quarters; the Army of Flanders, and the moyety of that of Lorrain have abandoned me, and the Duke Charles speaks of calling the remainder from me. The Count Fuensaldagne, who makes open shew of an aversion to assist me, hath let me know there is no Money for me, nor no hope of it; in the mean time the Enemies establish themselves, possess my Quarters, and in case they establish their Design, will settle an Authority which as yet France ne∣ver knew, and put themselves into such a condition, as will be very troublesome, not to me alone, but to your Excellency also. My Friends have lost all hope of be∣ing succoured, and perceiving me to be thus abandoned, do make their peace one af∣ter another, and quit my Party. I beseech you my Lord, to take some good Order herein, Commanding these Ministers expresly to assist me with all their Troops; when all those of the Enemy shall come against me, or with part of them when I shall

be assaulted only with a Party; and also to send me forthwith Money which hath been with so much asseveration promised me. I shall then be bold to promise, that we shall quickly force the Enemy to quit the Field, or consent unto a just and honou∣rable Peace.

This I expect from his Majesty's Iustice, and your friendship, and shall endea∣vour to let you see, I am most Affectionate to serve you, &c.

He added a Postscript to the Letter, whereby he desired him to give cre∣dit unto what should be declared unto him touching this matter by St. Ago∣lin, by word of mouth, or by Monsieur Lenet by Letter, to whom he had re∣commended the care of his Affairs in Bourdeaux.

The Prince's design was by all means to keep up his party in Guienne, and thereby to assure the City, and Parliament of Bourdeaux, and by that diver∣sion (employing a good part of the Catholick King's Forces in that Province) he thought with the Flanders Army to enter France, and give new life unto the fickleness of the Parisians, and the bitterness of male-contents; and there∣fore all his desires were reduced unto two points, One, That the King of Spain, with Men and Money speedily dispatch't into Guienne, would add new fuel to the Warr which was there kindled: And sending the Money promi∣sed into Flanders, would permit him to encrease his Army, and march upon those designs he had projected independent upon any other.

But forasmuch as the Spaniard by the exorbitant Expence he had been at in the Sieges and Enterprises of Barcellona, Gravelin, Dunkirk, Trin, and Casal, was very bare of Men, and Money, and the Kingdom of Naples could not now furnish those great Recruits of Men and Treasure, in which consisted the chief strength of the Spanish Forces, but rather appeared likely to fall into despair, by reason of the oppressions it had suffered under the King's Mi∣nisters; the Provisions of Guienne were so slow and feeble, and the Prepa∣rations in Flanders so short of the hopes and expectations of the Prince of Conde, that it was evident the Victories obtained in the Year 1652, were rather a weakening, than a strength, unto that Monarchy. The Prince there∣fore being disabled to perform things whereof he had given hopes unto the French that followed him, was forced to dismiss the best part of them, and to permit them with his good leave to return to the obedience of his Majesty, which was done by many of them for that onely reason; And the Duke of Rochefaucaut, being disabled by the Wounds he received in the last Fight at the Fauxbough of St. Anthonie in Paris to serve farther in the War, accepted by his consent of a Pardon, and quitted the Prince's Party with his intire good liking and consent.

The King's Council in Spain did notwithstanding what it was able in those straits, for Provisions both for Guienne and Flanders, and was not wanting by means of their Ambassadour at London, to try all means of engaging the English against the French; but 'twas observed, that in the Propositions for their sending of Men into Guienne, the Catholick Ambassadour moved very warily; he was willing Spain should have a footing in that Province, but 'twas against his Maximes, That the English should nestle there, whose power ought to be suspected unto the Spaniard; their Dominions not onely in Europe, but also in America, being exposed to the Invasion of their formidable Fleets. mann'd by a Nation ill affected to the Professors of the Roman Catholick Re∣ligion.

And because the Neapolitans, and particularly the Nobles, complained, and every one cryed out against the rigours of the Count d' Ognate, Vice-Roy there, murmuring that Pardons were not sincerely kept, so as there was no end of punishment; the Catholick King resolved (his three years being long

since past) to recall him into Spain: The King's Council considered, that 'twas hard (not to say impossible) that Minister should be perswaded to act with more sweetness, because it appeared manifestly, that the Maximes of his Government tending onely to depress the Baronage and secure the People to him by good turns, and a rigid Justice, he would make use of his Majestie's Authority upon all occasions to put the same in execution, principally against those who were suspected or accused to have had hand in the late Revoluti∣ons: Those who were his Enemies at Court, had also the better means to do ill offices, not only by reason of the small correspondence he held with Don Iohn of Austria, and his part taking with the Brothers of Cardinal Barberin; but most especially by reason of his Wealth, and the absolute Authority he exercised in his Government; which encreased the Envy and Emulation against him. To all this was added, the ill satisfaction of his Holiness, who protested, That he was cause of the small correspondence between him and the King of Spain, by reason of those continual prejudices the matters of the Church recei∣ved, by the Discords he entertained with the Archbishop Cardinal Philomarini, the nature of which, though they were such as of themselves might be some Motives of distrust against him, yet they were reported to have had another cause, the said Archbishop being charged not to have dealt sincrrely in the beginning of the Tumults, and in the progress of the Treaty, so as if he had encouraged the People, covering his partiality under the pretence of maintaining that confidence with them, which might render his interposition the more useful: That he had done many Actions esteemed prejudicial, and such as shewed no good intention, particularly in receiving the Duke of Guise, in a manner refused unto Don John of Austria, with the Ceremonies onely due to lawful Princes: That he had discovered many Councels, and Designs to the Enemy, and in particular (although too late) the last Plot, whereby the City was recovered by the Vice-Roy; That nourishing Factions without regard unto the danger of the Times, he had bred Troubles, and prosecuted all his Actions and De∣signs with violence. To the Count d•• Ognate was appointed Successour the Count of Castriglio, either to remove him from Court, or to sweeten the Rigours of Ognate, he being a Cavalier very dextrous, affable, and full of courtesie.

In the mean time Cardinal Mazarine being encouraged by the good Suc∣cess of his Enterprises, undertook also the Investing of Rhetel, and St. Menhou, and rallying together all the Troops of Mareschal Turenne, and de la Ferte Se∣neterre, marched that way, hoping to perform this before the Souldiers went into Quarters; but by reason of the strong Garrisons wherewith the Prince of Conde had reinforced these places, and the sharpness of the Season, he gave over the attempt, and in lieu thereof, sent the Marquess Castelnau, and the Count Broglia to attack Vervins, which they did the 27th of Ianuary, for∣cing the Garrison which was 300 Foot, and 200 Horse, to quit the place next day towards Night; And the Cardinal leaving there for Governour Mon∣sieur de Rinville with a strong Guard, dismissed the Troops into their Quar∣ters, and so ended the Campagne of 1652; In Chasteau Porcien was left for Commander the Count de Grand Pre, and the Frontiers of Champagne being provided with sufficient strength against the attempts, might be made by the Garrisons of Mouson, St. Menhou, Clermont, and Stenay; the Cardinal ac∣companied with a great number of Noble Persons, and Officers of the Army, went to Paris, whither he had been invited by frequent Courriers from their Majesties.

The Marquess Pallavicin Treated at the same time the Affair touching the Restitution of the Galley, taken by the Count d' Harcourt from the Genoueses, and the Justice of that Common-wealths Demand appearing to the Court of France, his Majesty, whose intentions were to preserve Friendship, and good

correspondence with them, overcame all difficulties, and with great Equity and Justice, gave order for the restitution, commanding that the Galley fit∣ted up, and fully armed, should by a Gentleman sent expressly for that pur∣pose, be brought unto the Town of Genoua, and there restored, as it was the August following, where the Senate in acknowledgment of his Majestie's ge∣nerous goodness, caused the Gentleman to be Treated at the publick charge in the said Marquess Pollavicin his House, and dismissed him with a Present of 1000 Duckets in Plate.

This Galley had been thus taken, in the Encounter which past in the Year 1638. between 15 Gallies of France, and as many of Spain, as hath been else∣where said; There were 5. taken by the French from the Spaniard, one of which in that long Fight having lost all her Men, and Tackle, it was impos∣sible for the French General to bring her into Provence, and therefore put∣ting some few Marriners and Souldiers into her, he left her in the Fosse D' Arrassi, himself following on his way towards the Islands of St. Margaret, and St. Honorato; Notice hereof being given unto the Spanish Garrison in Finall, and to the People of Loano, Subjects to the Prince Doria, the same Night with certain Barks, and Filoukes from the Creeks in the said places, they surprized the Galley without resistance; the rather, because she lay off the Castle, so as she could not be thereby defended, and brought her safe in∣to the Port of Genoua, to which the other Spanish Galleys were retired: This Accident was falsly reported to the French General, suggesting that those of Arassi, and others Subjects of the Republique, had concurred to the recovery of this Galley; which being also confirmed by the common dis∣course at Thoulon, and Marseilles, and reported in the French Court, gave occasion unto the Count d' Harcourt, being Admiral, to engage himself in de∣manding the restitution of this Galley; to which purpose coming with his great Ships near Genoua, he sent with much Civility and Courtesie to request of the Republick, that they would put into his hands this Galley, which be∣ing gotten in a just Warr from the Enemy, was possessed by their Subjects. The Senate gave order, that a relation of the truth of the fact should be given unto Harcourt, that she had been taken, not by their Subjects, but by Spa∣niards; and that for the satisfaction of France, they would make strict en∣quiry to see if any of their Subjects had hand in it: Harcourt passed in shew well satisfied with the ingenuous proceeding of the Republick, who failed not to use their best diligence to be informed of the truth; and it was found, that among so many who joyned in the recovery of the Vessel, there were three poor Mariners who were Genoueses, whom they caused to be severely punished, and sent due information thereof unto Gio. Baptista Salazzo their Ambassadour in France, that he might satisfie the Court, and thought they had given sufficient satisfaction, and made it to appear that 'twas far from their intention, the least damage should be done by any of their Subjects. But on the contrary, that two Galleys being in the same Fight taken from the French by the Spaniard, and brought into Genoua, wherein were many wounded persons, and Prisoners, the common Souldiers were forthwith taken into Hospitals, and the Officers, and Persons of Quality, by particular Gentlemen into their Houses, where they were treated with much magnifi∣cence and Courtesie; amongst them two Captains of the Gallies lodged by Gio. Battista Raggi, confessed that they had never found any where so much Courtesie as they had experienced in Genoua. This Raggi was Nephew to the deceased, and Brother to the living Cardinal of that name, who after he had for five moneths defrayed their charges, got them their liberties without Ransome. But as there is never wanting in great Princes Courts envious persons, and back-biters who do ill offices, and turn the sweetest,

and most obliging actions into poyson, it was insinuated to Harcourt, that he had been abused by the State of Genoua in his demand, under colour of ta∣king information touching the manner of the recovery of the Spanish Gal∣ley.

This Prince fierce by Nature, and apt to resent Injuries, the year follow∣ing being at Sea with the Fleet under his Command, sailed to the River of Genoua, passing within two miles of St. Remy, and two Senators of Genoua be∣ing there about Publick Affairs, upon the notice they had of the appearing of the French Fleet, sent a Gentleman with a Galley, and several Provisions to refresh, and Complement the French General; but after the usual Salutes coming aboard the French Admiral, without the least suspicion of Hostility, the Galley was surprised whilest the Gentleman was aboard of Harcourt's Ship, performing of his Message to him.

The Senators were much astonished and surprized with the unwonted strangeness of this Action of the French Admiral, who sailing as a Friend up∣on the Seas of the Republick, aad being saluted as such by them, the Hosti∣lity committed by him could be nothing else but an apparent breach of Pub∣lick Faith, and a violation of the Law of Nations. The Gentleman and Cap∣tain of the Galley complained to the General, charging him with a Fact so detestible, and unusual: He replyed sharply to them, That they being of the Republick of Venice, who had taken a Galley, which on the King's behalf he had demanded, but could not get, he was bound to take satisfaction himself where he could find it. He caused the Galley to be plundered, released the Captain and Mariners, and brought the Vessel with the Tackle to Thoulon. The news of this Accident coming to Genoua, was the more sensible to the Senators, and the whole City, by how much it was known to be less just, and reasonable; and the rather, because in this Action, and other occasions, the Republick had al∣waies shewed a good correspondence with France; so as if the great wisdom of the Senate had not shewed it self in regulating the Motions of the People, and City, not suffering them to fall tumultously upon those resolutions which must be undertaken upon mature advice, there was some danger left the Genoueses should have fallen upon the French, and deprived them of their Goods and Lives, in revenge of so apparent an Injury.

The Commonwealth failed not amongst other Provisions to dispatch pre∣sently a Courrier to their Ambassadour in France, with orders to represent unto his Majesty this Accident so unexpected, without reason, and contrary to all Lawes of Hospitality, letting him know, They hoped from his Majestie's Iustice, not only restitution of the Galley taken, but satisfaction also for the Injury, which with so much violence was done unto them: The Ambassadour espoused the cause, declaimed against the strangeness of the Action, and set forth the injustice of it with so much evidence of Reason, that the Cardinal Richelieu after he had excused it, upon pretence of reprisal, by reason of an injury of the like nature received from the Genoueses, told him, That if the Common∣Wealth would by their Letters to his Majesty desire a Restitution of the Galley, he doubted not but that his Majesty would please to do it. But this Business, the di∣spatch whereof was thought so easie, by reason of the delayes used in it, which are proper to great Courts, took not effect but at the time, and in the man∣ner above rehearsed.

The Marquess Pallavicin ceased not at the same time to make continual applications unto his Majestie's Ministers at Court,* 5.1 That they would give order to have the Common-Wealths Ambassadours treated with the same Ceremonies are usual unto those of Crown'd Princes. He shewed that this Demand was founded upon Justice; Forasmuch as besides that Liguria had

been often called a Kingdome, this Common-Wealth had for many Ages past been Owners of that of Sardinia, conquered by force of Arms, and that of Cyprus, ren∣dred it Tributary for many years, and taken from the French that of Corfu, which it still holds; besides so many Glorious Conquests in the Levant, which rendred it formidable unto all its Enemies, and especially the Infidels, against whom the Chri∣stian Princes never almost undertook a Warr, without receiving powerful assistance from this Common-Wealth: Which hath been therefore Honoured by many Popes with the Title of their Protector. And the Commonwealth thought it self here••n obliged to challenge the same Respect with other Potentates, because the Bull of Urban the 8th. for conferring the Title of Eminence upon the Cardinals, with pain of Excommunication to all that should refuse to use it towards them, Except∣ing Kings; that Exception, upon the instance of the Venetian Republick, was de∣clared to extend unto all Potentates who had Royal Dignity; whereupon the Com∣monwealth of Genoua for preserving of its Dignity declared it self by a particular Decree to be comprehended in the number of such Potentates, requiring the same not only from Pope Innocent the 10th, unto whom they sent Raffael de la Torne a particular Envoy for that purpose, but also by others in all the Courts of the prime Princes of Christendome.

Pallavicin found a great disposition in the King to gratifie them with this Honour; the Ambassadour of this Republick being the year following re∣ceived with the same form used towards those of Crowned Princes, as in the continuance of this Story shall be declared.

It will not also be amiss to give a short touch of the Affairs treated at this time in Germany, and particularly in the Diet at Ratisbone, concerning the strengthening of the Peace concluded the Year before in Osnaburgh, and Munster, because both French and Spaniard had some share in it; in regard the Spaniards following the Maxime, To have the effects of things which were likely rather to be seen, than felt, endeavoured under the plausible pretence of Religion to delay the restoring of those Places they possessed in the Lower Palatinate, to discompose that Peace from which they were excluded with their so great resentment, if at least they may be said to be excluded who are neither principal, nor accessary, it being manifest by the Declarations of the Swedes, and Protestants in Germany, that they never pretended to have any open Enmity against the King of Spain.

But finally, by the care and sollicitude of the Emperour, and his Negotia∣tion full of Candour and Clemency, the restitution of Frankendale (held and refused to be given up by the Spaniard) being obtained, and the differences of the City of Hailbrun, and others adjusted, the Meeting of Nuremberg was concluded, whereby those Obstacles which were referred to their Decision by the Imperial Diet, and which might have ministred matter unto new differences, and divisions, were smoothed in the end of the Year 1652, unto the satisfaction of the Resolutions taken in the said Diet, the occasions where∣of was in appearance to determine the Points reserved at the Treaty in Mun∣ster, but in substance to proceed unto the Election of the King of the Romans; a thing wonderfully desired by the Emperour, that he might establish the King of Hungary his Son, in the Succession of the Empire.

His Imperial Majesty was loth to put this to the trial, unless he were first assured of the undoubted success of his designs. He knew the Electors were almost all of them particularly obliged to him in point of gratitude, and the Prince Palatine more than the rest, being by his means restored to the pos∣session of Frankendale; but he was very suspicious in his mind of the Hans Towns, swelling with pretensions, by support of the Swedes, and animated by their good intelligence with France, and therefore thought they would with their whole Power, give what disturbance to it they were able. The

Emperour therefore thought fit before summoning of the Diet in Ratisbone, to sound the minds of the Electors by his Letters, that he might inform him∣self whether they approved the coming now to the Election of his Succes∣sor.

He wrote therefore very Affectionate Letters to each of them unto that purpose, and made them to be accompanied by the person who had charge to present them, with those reflections were fit to make them jealous of those States in the Election, and to animate them not to suffer that any other should partake of that Prerogative, which was due only to themselves, independent upon any other person whatsoever.

The Electors took in good part the Advice given, and much more the gra∣tious Expressions of his Imperial Majestie, they returned Answer therefore in Terms full of Reverence, and particular Devotion, and most especially the Prince Palatine endeavoured to express his Gratitude; because he well knew that although his Catholick Majestie out of his Natural Generosity had con∣descended to the restitution of Frankendale to gratifie him, without any other condition; yet the Emperour by the cross management of the Spanish Mini∣sters, had been forced to quit the City of Besanzon in the Franche Comt••, and to promise payment of 25000 Dollers from the Circles of the Empire unto the King of Spain, to get possession of it.

The Emperour being therefore certified of the good inclination of the Electors, summoned a Diet to meet at the end of the Year 1652, and in the moneth of August advanced to Prague, whither under colour of doing him reverence, and confirming the good intelligence between them, came all the Electors in person, excepting onely he of Cologne who was sick, and sent thither in his stead the Count of Fustembergh; and the Elector of Bavaria, who in his place deputed thither his Mother Anna Maria of Austria, Sister unto the Emperour, who came accompanied with a Train of 200 persons, and upon the 29th of September, was by the Emperour himself met out of the City at the White Mountain, in which place all the other Electors were also encountred by him, with so much shew of Love and Kindness, that there was none who did not think himself highly obliged by the Emperour's Cour∣tesie, who gave order that the King of Hungary should give the first Visit un∣to every one of the Electors.

There followed afterwards in Prague the mutual declarations of a constant, and sincere intelligence between the Parties, and the ascertaining of the Ar∣ticles necessarily conducing unto the common intention of electing a King of the Romans.

Upon these assurances, the Emperour accompanied by all his Court went to Ratisbone in December following, whither came the Electors of Moguntia, Treves, Cologne, and the Prince Palatine of Bavaria sent thither with the Title of his Ambassadour and Plenipotentiary, the Count Maximilian Curtio, a Ca∣valier of rare parts, and singular abilities; Brandenburgh dispatcht thither Ioachino Frederick, Baron of Plumenthall, a Person of very clear repute, who dyed there, and Saxony had the young Schonfelt and Sesen, a person of great Dexterity, and profound Learning. In the first opening of the Diet there grew several differences by reason of the pretensions to Titles, and preceden∣cies, which spent some dayes, and delayed the making of the Propositions; the Emperour was not able to make his Cavalcade according to the antient usage, but made his Entry in Coach, because that he was ill disposed: The States opposed themselves to this, pretending that the antient Form should not be altered; but they gave way at last therein to satisfie his Majesty: The Emperour intended also that the Meeting should be kept in his own Palace, upon the same ground of his want of health; but the States were so positive

against this, that he could not obtain it, but the same was in the publick house destinated unto such occasions.

At last the Assembly met, and the Marquess de Buda, after a fine Elegant Oration made in praise of Caesar, and of the Assembly, opened the Proposi∣tions upon which they were to Treat, being these:

First, Concerning the manner whereby to establish the Peace gained with so much Labour, Trouble, and Expence, between the Head, and Members, and between them, and Forraign Princes, to cherish the antient, and sincere confidence was here∣tofore, and in what manner their common Countrey afflicted with so many passed Warrs, might for the time to come be preserved from any ill intelligences which might arise, and that what remained to be done, and concluded in the Treaty of Peace, might be executed as was just and fitting.

To consider touching the Expedients whereby without long delayes (which are al∣wayes hurtful) those things may be decided, which are remitted to the Diet by the said Treaty.

His Imperial Majesty shewed himself ready to subscribe all these Proposi∣tions, promising to continue in a Fatherly and Cordial Affection towards all in general, and every one in particular.

The Meeting therefore at first went on with general Propositions, touch∣ing the Policy of the Empire, and the things which were reserved unto the Diet by the Treaty of Munster; but afterwards they entred upon the Trea∣ty, touching the Election of a King of the Romans.

The Hans Towns then set on foot their Pretensions to be admitted to the said Election, whereunto they were privately encouraged by the French, and Swedes; whereat the Electors were offended, that others should intrude themselves into a business appertained solely to them. And the differences at last grew to that height, that there being no means to accord them, the Electors resolved to divide from them, and to meet in Augusta; where in the moneth of May following, they proceeded to the Election of Ferdinand the Fourth, King of Hungary, for King of the Romans; after which they returned to Ratisbone, to perform the Ceremonies of his Coronation. The said States protested against it, pretending it to be invalid; but in vain, because it was approved by all the rest, and the King was lawfully inthron'd and settled in that Dignity.

The Ceremony of the Coronation was performed, in which there grew a difference between the Elector of Brandenburgh, and the Palatine, either of them pretending, that it belonged to him to carry the Imperial Crown; which was at last adjusted by the Emperour, who caused the said Crown to be consigned unto the Palatine as Treasurer of the Empire; the Count of Hohen Zollern carried the Scepter, the Count of Papenham the Sword, and these with the Elector Palatine went before the Emperour, who was carried in a Chair into the Church, where solemn Mass was sung, and all Ceremo∣nies performed which are usual in such occasions.

The Hans Towns seeing their pretensions to have a vote in the Election insufficient, declared, That they intended to take into consideration the 49. Ar∣ticles which used to be solemnly sworn by a new King of the Romans, that is to examine, add to, or take from them. The Reformed insisted, That they should be ratified, and sworn by the King, according to the Form they had appointed. This Dispute continued for some time with obstinacy, but the Emperour's Au∣thority, and the Reasons alledged at last prevailing, they acquiesced, and this difficulty was overcome.

The Meeting continued after, and debated upon the Points already men∣tioned, but with so little success, that the Diet was at last dissolved with little satisfaction, by reason of the difference in Opinions which rose amongst them.

The Protestants pretended that in all things which were to be decided, they might give their Votes apart; alledging, That forasmuch as the Catho∣licks were more in number, it was convenient, to the end things might be indiffe∣rently carried, that their Voices should be equal to the Catholicks. The Empe∣rour was much against it, and stood firmly in the negative; but being above measure desirous of Peace, and that the Diet should end with an entire sa∣tisfaction to all Parties, he at last consented to it, with this reservation, That the same should be onely understood to extend unto those things which were to be decided, not to such as were already settled, and that it stould be for this time onely.

The Protestants having advanced this step, were not content, but pressed farther, in regard the Assembly being to break up, and the matters which were not determined, being to be referred unto another Meeting in Frank∣fort, a free City situate near the Lower Palatinate upon the River Maine, they pretended also to have the same liberty of voting apart as was granted them in this Assembly at Ratisbone.

The Catholicks shewed themselves resolute not to give way unto this In∣novation of the Protestants; They had therefore secret meetings apart, and took a resolution to oppose it vigorously. The Protestants also had their meetings, and resolved to insist upon this demand, and go through with the obtaining of it, if otherwise they could not compass it; by force of Arms; declaring to be a matter just, honest, and convenient. These their Propositions were backed by the Swedes, and the French also, who were glad to set Di∣vision between the Parties, and to render the party which depended upon them, equal in all advantages with those who they believed would not run their way, so as the matter tended to a new Rupture, and breach of the Peace, which had been gained with so much trouble.

The Emperour wisely foreseeing the ill effects which this division might beget, by the Advice of his Council, and particularly of the Count of Aus∣bourg, a Person of great Integrity, Abilities, and Experience, (who was after made a Prince of the Empire) gave notice by the Count Curtio, Vice-Chan∣cellor of the Empire, unto the Elector of Moguntia, That he should endeavour by all means to adjust this Difference.

The Protestants having by some means got notice of the Emperour's in∣clination to adjust this difference, grew more positive in their Resolutions to have it, so as the Archbishop of Moguntia being not able to gain any thing upon them; that he might accomplish the Emperour's desire, endeavoured to perswade the Catholicks to comply with them; and therein laboured so effectually as he perswaded those who were the most averse, to consent unto the satisfaction of the Protestants, that is to say, that they should also have an Equality of Votes in the meeting of Frankfort, upon condition it should be for that time onely, and should extend onely to the three Points, which were there to be discussed, and ended, which were:

• First, Touching the Arming of the Circles of Germany, and the Provisions fit to be made for the Publick Safety.
• Secondly, The settling of the Policy, and good Orders of the Empire.
• Thirdly, Touching the manner of making restitution of Goods and Estates, upon the Articles of Oblivion, and Religion.

These things being obtained by the Protestants, they pressed farther, and demanded in lieu of the Deputation appointed at Frankfort, a sub-de∣putation, that is, an incorporating together of all the Three Estates; in which sub-deputation, a determinate number was to be chosen, that is, so

many Protestants, and so many Catholicks; and this to avoid a croud, that but few only might be present at debates, whom they knew to be firm, and unbiassed to the Common Interest; the multitude of persons being suspected by them, as more easie to be wrought upon by the contrary party, and gain∣ed by gi••ts, and favours bestowed upon them by the Catholicks.

But these new Demands of the Protestants being full of arrogance, and which evidently shewed they were not to be satisfied, gave so much offence to the Emperour, that losing all patience, he gave them notice, He inten∣ded absolutely to part, without staying to perform the Ceremonies done at a Recesse. In order whereunto he caused all the publick Meeting-Places to be unhang∣ed, and all things to be taken down wherewith they were adorned, for performing the Solemnity usual at the dissolving of the Diet, which con∣sists in the Singing of a solemn High Mass by the Bishop, Prince of Ratisbone, at which his Majesty is present in a Pontifical Habit.

This resolution being perceived by the Protestants, who foresaw that in case the Assembly should break up abruptly, the same would be of great pre∣judice unto them, they went carefully to the house of Prince Drictestain, the Emperour's Major Domo, a Cavalier of great Wisdome, and an unspotted Faith, and there having given many Reasons, and made many excuses, they declared, That they would submit unto his Majestie's Pleasure, and waive the pre∣tensions aforesaid. The Prince went presently unto the Palace to acquaint the Emperour, how the Protestants had changed their Obstinacy into Reverence, and that they resolved to give his Majesty full satisfaction.

The Emperour was pleased with this humble carriage, and laying aside all displeasure, gave order that the places should be again fitted up; and so the Solemnity was performed with the usual Ceremonies: After which at the time of publishing of the Recesse in the Great Hall, the Emperour obli∣ged himself to maintain sincerely all that was agreed on; and by an Elegant Discourse gave satisfaction to all persons of his Incomparable Kindness, and Affection towards the Publick Good.

The Elector of Moguntia in the name of all the States, gave him great Thanks for the Trouble he had suffered by so long a stay, and wished unto him a good Voyage: And in this manner ended the Diet, being reduced unto a Deputation Extraordinary in Frankfort, and the adjourning of all other matters discussed in this, unto another Diet to be held in Ratisbone, within the term of two years.

There were at this Meeting divers other Affairs treated which belonged to Forraign Princes out of Germany, amongst which one was, the Investiture desired by the Duke of Savoy, of the Lands of Monferrat, according to the Treaty of Chierasco, 1631. To which purpose the Count Bolyer, one of the Lords of Lucerne, was sent expressly from the Court of Piedmont to Ratisbone, who solicited the matter with all earnestness, and by all such means as were to be expected from so dextrous, and capable a person.

The Duke had the Year before sent the Marquess of Lullin, a Cavalier of great Quality unto Vienna, with the Title of his Extraordinary Ambassa∣dour, upon the same occasion, where he appeared with a numerous and splendid Retinue, suitable unto his own Generosity, and that of the Prince who sent him; but his Negotiations were fruitless, and met with some disgust, because besides his not prevailing in what he came for, the Emperour caused to be expunged from his Writings, the Title of Royal Highness, declaring, That it belonged solely unto him, to confer Titles upon the Princes of Christendome.

The Pretensions of Savoy in the Diet, were favoured by Monsieur de Vau∣tort, Ambassadour Extraordinary unto his Christian Majestie, a Person

greatly experienced in the management of Affairs, and throughly acquaint∣ed with the Interests of Germany; They were also countenanced by the Elector of Bavaria, newly allied with the House of Savoy, having contracted Marriage with the Princess Henrietta Adalaide, Sister of this Duke Charles Emmanuel, but what diligence soever was used, and what reasons soever were alledged, they could never bring it to a conclusion, it being ever put off, upon one pretence, or other, because the Emperour was diverted by the earnest solicitation and endeavours of the Duke of Mantua his Agent, who opposed it openly by reason of the prejudice it would bring unto his Master's Interests; to which was added the Affection his Majestie had for his Cousin, and the great care he took to satisfie the Empress Leonara Gonzaga, a Widow, the Duke's Aunt, who was a Princess of great Un∣derstanding, and diverted him from coming to a determination in this Affair.

The Marriage of the Elector of Bavaria with this Princess of Savoy, was in the Year 1650, which was in the life-time of Duke Maximilian his Fa∣ther, who died after in Septemb. 1651. in a good old age, with the Reputa∣tion of being the greatest Politician, and the most Prudent and Pious Prince in our Age. He being a man of a most accomplished Experience, had not taken his Measures ill, in this Alliance with Savoy, and consequently with the King of France, to whom he had alwaies a particular inclination, fore∣seeing with much Wisdome of what consequence in progress of time upon several Accidents the good correspondence with, and protection of the King of France, might be unto his House, who had alwaies a particular Esteem for the Elector.

The Count Maximilian Curtio, first Minister to his Electoral Highness, a Cavalier of Extraordinary Capacity, and replenished with all Good, and Virtuous Qualities, was he who passed into Piedmont with a Proud, and Sumptuous Equipage of Gentlemen, and Servants, to be the Proxie for the Marriage, who in the Year 1652. went also thither, to wait upon the Bride, and conduct her into Bavaria, where he arrived in Iune the same year.

This Princess parted from Turin the 16th of May, 1652, and was accom∣panied by the Dutchess her Mother, the Duke her Brother, and all the Prin∣cipal Persons of that Court to Moncallier, from thence by the way of Ast••, and Alexandria, she came to Milan, being received with all due Respect & Honour, through all that State, and her hcarges defrayed by the King, the charge whereof was committed to Don Girolamo Stampo. Don Pietro Gonzales, Go∣vernour of Alexandria, a Person of great Valour, met her upon the Borders with a Brave Retinue, and Treated her Splendidly in that City, whither came to Complement her in the Marquiss of Caracene his name, (himself being at that time engaged at the Siege of Trin) Don Gasparo de Thebes, Cap∣tain of the said Marque••s his Guard: From Milan she went into the Terri∣tory of the Venetians, where she was received upon the Confines by Anthonio Bernardi, Captain of Brescia, Royally served, and her Charges defrayed through all that State: From thence she continued her Voyage through Tiroll, where she was generally Treated by the Arch-Duke Charles Ferdi∣nand; and in the Moneth of Iune following, came to Monaco, the Residence of his Electoral Highness, where she was received by the Elector her Spouse, with such tender Love and Affection, as is peculiar to one who had long wished for and expected her, and as was due to the Rare Beauties and Perfections of such a Princess.

When the Coronation of the King of the Romans was to be performed, the Emperour caused Notice to be given unto the French Ambassadour, That he might, if he pleased, be present at the Ceremony; but that in case he came, he must needs give the Precedency to the Ambassadour of Spain. Vautort an∣swered, That as for coming thither he would do as he saw best; but as for the Precedence; he knew not any person who could take it from his King, who was un∣doubtedly the first of Christendome. He forbore notwithstanding to go thi∣ther, because he would not stand in an ill posture with the House of Austria, but might apply himself to those Affairs for which he came, which were to continue, and encrease the good intelligence between the States of the Em∣pire, and the Crown of France, that he might be watchful to prevent all prejudice might come unto the Interests of that Crown, or its Friends and Confederates, by the Resolutions which should there be taken, to get the in∣vestiture of the places held by the French in Alsatia, and to countenance the Interests of Savoy, in the investiture he pretended unto of the Towns in Monferrat, according to the before mentioned Treaty of Chierasco.

After the Coronation the Ambassadour Vautort going for Audience unto his Imperial-Majesty, he was received with shews of great Esteem, and cour∣tesie, the Emperour excusing himself modestly, That he could not do other∣wise. The Ambassadour replyed with all Civility to his Complements; but defended the Interests and Prerogative of his King, with all freedome, and boldness.

The Crown of Sweden sent to this Diet the young Count Oxenstern, with the Title of Ambassadour Extraordinary, to have the Investiture of the Towns of Pomerania, assigned unto the Swedes by the Treaty of Munster; but the Emperour refusing to receive him under that title, because he came to perform the Office of a Feudatary, some differences arose, which notwith∣standing were after laid aside.

There were also in this Diet great Controversies between the Emperour, and the States, who set on foot a bold and a very distastful Pretension, which was, That they conceived there ought to be an Election of Iudges, who might Cen∣sure and Iudge the Actions of the Emperours themselves, with power to revoke, and adnul all Decrees which they conceived to be contrary to Iustice, or the Consti∣tution of the Municipal Lawes.

This Affair as it pressed hard upon the Emperour was very warmly impugned, and rejected, it being censured as an audacious boldness, to go about to prescribe Laws unto him, who had the power of making them.

The Contest was long, as being full of knotty Points, and tedious diffi∣culties, and was solicited with great earnestness and fervour, by a person depending on the Emperour himself, who having had a Judgment passed against him before his Majestie, feared he should not be able to find a good dispatch hereafter of his Causes there; but the Endeavours and Artifices of those who laboured therein, found such opposition, that the Pretenders were finally inforced to give it over, without being able to make a farther pro∣gress in it.

At this Meeting the Marquess of Castle Rodrigo, Ambassadour from the Catholick King, a Person of great Virtue, and deep foresight, managed di∣vers things advantageous to the Interests of his Master.

He endeavoured by all means to engage his Imperial Majesty in some Treaty with the Count d' H••rcourt; who was in Brisac, being upon ill terms with the Court of France, to gain out of his hands that most Important Fortress, which he said was the Gate by which the French might at their plea∣sure pass the Rhine, and come into the heart of Germany; and a Key which would

keep them shut up in their own bounds. That France shook hands, by means thereof, with the States, Princes of the Empire, and Protestant Cantons their Friends, so as the Circles of the Empire having alwayes at hand, the assistance which upon all occasions they might draw from that united Kingdome, so well armed, would by consequence swell with such high Pretensions, as must necessarily either disturb the Publick Quiet, or much weaken and eclipse the Imperial Autho∣rity.

That Caesar being so highly concerned for the general Good, ought not to let slip an occasion presented him by Fortune, to regain by Art a Place which was never to be won by force of Arms.

He shewed farther, That Lorrain being beyond Burgundy, and Alsatia, (al∣though the Duke should be restored by the General Peace) it would (instead of be∣ing what it was formerly a Knot that united the Low-Countries with the Franche Comtè, and the Austrian Countries) be rather a barr, and partition to continue them divided from each other; which was the greatest prejudice could happen to the Dominions of his Catholick Majesty, and of the whole House of Austria, whose weakness consisted principally in this, That their Countries being dis-joyned, they could not without great difficulty, communicate those Succours to each other, which are necessary for their subsistence in time of Warr.

Besides, that the French being freed from all Iealousies on that side, would with more confidence employ their whole strength in other places.

But all his Endeavours were without effect, as well by reason of the noble disposition of the Emperour, who was resolved to observe inviolably the Peace of Munster, as of the Ingenuity of Harecourt, who would never give ear unto the Propositions reiterated to him from the Spaniards, who used their utmost endeavour to make him enter into a Treaty with them, by their own, and by the Duke of Lorrain's means, whom they made sensible what advantage the dislodging of the French out of Alsatia, would be unto the Interests of his House; and particularly out of Brisac, which would alwayes be a bridle upon Lorrain, if he should hereafter recover it by any Treaty. But Harecourt preferring his Honour, and Reputation, be∣fore all other advantages that might befal him; although he might per∣haps give ear unto some Propositions, and Invitations to a Treaty, re∣fused notwithstanding to enter into any, or to negotiate touching this Affair.

Castle Rodrigo sped notwithstanding well touching the Imprisonment of Charles Duke of Lorrain; with whom the Spaniards were ill satisfied, because they found not in his actions, that correspondence which they expected from his gratitude.

They represented therefore to his Imperial Majestie, That the said Duke was not sincere, and cordial in his union with Spain; that he held private Intel∣ligence with the Court of France, retarded with the difficulties he cast the execu∣tion of those Enterprises, which had been well designed; That being altogether in∣tent upon his own particular advantage, he had ill treated the Subjects, ruined the Countrey, exasperated the Neighbours, and caused every where a huge aversion, and hatred, not onely against his own Forces, but also against those of his Catho∣lick Majesty, who being united with the Lorrainers, had their share also in the Countries Curses; so as they were in a continual apprehension, that he joyn∣ing with the French would bring an inevitable prejudice upon his Majestie's Affairs in Flanders; or if he were still let alone, would put the People in despera∣tion.

The Emperour at last perswaded by these Reasons, and assured that this aversion was not unto the House of Lorrain, but onely to the person of the

Duke, by reason of his deportments, gave his consent that he should be Ar∣rested, and writ about it into Spain, where a while after the resolution was taken to secure themselves of his person; but in such manner, as that the same might be dextrously put in execution, for avoiding of those Inconve∣niencies might happen by so scandalous and unexpected an Accident, where∣of we shall hereafter Treat more at large, and give relation of the most Re∣markable Passages in that Action.

The End of the Ninth Book.

Notes

• * 5.1

  Anno 1653.