The history of France under the ministry of Cardinal Mazarine containing all the remarkable and curious passages in the government of that state, from the death of King Louis XIII, which happened in the year 1643, to the death of the cardinal, which was in the year 1664 / written in Latine by Sieur Benjamin Priolo ... ; done into English by Christopher Wase.

THE FIRST BOOK OF THE HISTORY OF FRANCE During the Administration of Car∣dinal Mazarine, viz. from the Death of Lewis XIII. to the Year 1664. (Book 1)

The CONTENTS. The State of France immediately before and upon the Decease of Lewis XIII. The Temper of the Princes of the Blood, the Parliament, the Ecclesiasticks, the Provinces, and Armies. The Extent of the King∣dom, Interest of Allies. Posture of the City. A Parallel between Richlieu and Mazarine.

HAving arrived at rest of mind from many dangers and troubles, I am resolved to pass the residue of my days free from medling any more

with State-affairs; and lest I should spend my time in sloth, or be constrained by servile dependencies to flatter great Ones, and hang upon the Court amidst the lazy and obsequious Retainers on the Palace, have undertaken to rescue from the injury of oblivion, or mis-reports, the most memorable oc∣currents in France, and record them to posterity, if that priviledge may be expected from, my endea∣vours as may possibly, the rather because my mind rallying against the insults of Fortune, is now fully set at liberty from hope and fear, and taking part with any of the Princes. The retirement that I had determined, could not appear under a more fair pretext, nor did any subject occur either more copious for acquiring praise, or more durable to transmit to late memory; besides that the work appeared suitable to my Age now upon the decli∣ning, and some expectations and favourable opi∣nions of Foreigners concerning me; although I am not ignorant how odious it is, to repeat these matters whilst grudges are yet fresh, whereupon I shall be suspected by some for a Flatterer; and of∣fend others by sullen Truth which always goeth to the quick, when it proceeds with uncorrupted Faith and undaunted freedom of Speech.

Therefore I shall comprise in this Decade with as much indifference and courage as I shall be able the whole Ministry of Mazarine. For that I ap∣pears to me for variety of Action, sadness of Acci∣dents, strangeness of Dangers, and at last for suc∣cessfulness of Events most worthy to be recorded.

1. After that Lewis XIII. took Armand Richlien for prime Minister of State, the Debates both of

Peace and War were carried on more fortunately and with better faith. The name of Armand was renowned all over Europe: all business applied to him as Sharer in the Kingdom. He was the only person in the eye of the City, of the Provinces, of the Armies, not by secret workings but openly, none contradicting. The better any stood affected to him, he was the more advanced in Wealth and Honours; and the most eminent, were the for∣wardest to be at his devotion. All the world cry∣ed never was such a rare Creature, nor ever would be again. Then were his Actions repeated in particular.

The crushing of the Rebels, the frighting Rochel the Head-quarters of the Sectaries, chaining up the Ocean, and the Kingdom setled: that by the relief of Casaille, restoring the D. of Mantoua, and bringing the Savoyard to extremities, Laws were given to Italy: that to the astonishment of the Spaniard he had ridden in Triumph over the Alpes and Pyrenaean: had eased the German Princes from the incroach∣ments of the Empire, and broken the House of Austria in many Parts. This was the Tamer of the Danube, this of the Rhyne. The Pale of France was the Ocean, and remotest Rivers. That the Armies, Provinces, Fleets, all were compact within themselves by his means; that Justice was planted amongst the Sub∣jects, and awfulness umidst the Confederates, the City it self was improved in stately Buildings, and enlar∣ged. Somewhat indeed had been carried with a high hand, but only to keep the rest in quiet.

All this was reported of Richlieu, and believed by the World. But because things arrived at the

highest pitch, do not long hold there, nor can pro∣sperity ever support it self, he begun to sink under his own greatness. Then was death to have been called for when by Providence it came: and by Fate preventing the turn of Fortune, his last day ob∣viated the dangers that were imminent. A Fistula in the Fundament presented Armand this timely d••th. To whose end before I come, it will not be impertinent to premit a word or two.

Lewis being grown weary of a Favourite that lay so heavy upon him, had without doubt made many and grievous complaints of the carriage and pride of Richlieu. There was one Henry D'Effiat de Cinque-Mars in great Vogue at Court for the Kings special Favour, and certain Qualities resem∣bling Vertues. He was obliging to his Friends with his interest, and by relieving them with gifts: towards strangers too affable and courteous. He had also advantages of Fortune in a graceful pre∣sence. But far from gravity of manners, or staid∣nese. He was airy and gallant, as is ordinarily in∣cident to that Age which had not yet arrived at twenty two. Having therefore searched into the Kings jealousies of and distasts against Richlieu, he several times had an inclination to have made an attempt upon him, whether unguarded, which was rarely, or amidst attendance, that were admirers of such a comely personage. These thoughts spur'd on his youthful mind, had not that which is the bane of all great undertakings, a desire of passing unpunished amidst the sweets of Vice, pulled him back. And beside he durst not attempt that alone, which some would censure for an hainous act, o∣thers

thers would magnifie as an excellent service. There∣fore he took in to his Counsel the Duke de Bouillon, a person of an excellent Fame and temper of Spi∣rit, a mighty aid for so great a design: drew in de Thou and others. In the first place, it was judged, the safest way to truck with the Spaniard by the concurrence of whose Arms the Party in France a∣gainst Richlieu begun greatly to advance; Now when Affairs proved unsuccessful, it was concluded the King would soon forsake and throw off a Mi∣nister, sufficiently disgusted by him; and there was no other means to ruine him safely. That Lewis had so great an affection for his Kingdom, as that he would never move him as long as his Estate pro∣spered by his Service. This Intrigue was soon discovered, either by the practices of Richlieu, or because the French can never keep Counsel, and re∣vealed to the King by Chavigny, a great Creature of the Cardinals. At that time was the King abroad at Narbo, whither he had travelled in very stormy and rainy weather, it being but the begin∣ning of February. The pretence was the Siege of Perpignan, which Richlieu the prime Minister had advised to get the King out of the way, and for diversion of the Enemy. Close Guards being left at Paris to watch the Queen and the young Princes. This Plot then was discovered to His Majesty, when his Eminence not well in body, but worse in mind was upon his way homeward. The passage is strange, and scarce to be credited by the Readers, that the King displeased with Richlieu, and bear∣ing affection towards D'Effiat, when once informed that he held intelligence with die Spaniard, imme∣diately

putting away all tenderness consented to the death of his special Favourite, such influence had either the love of his Kingdom, or the fear of the Cardinal.

Thereupon were Cinque-Mars the Grand Con∣stable, and de Thou late Master of Requests appre∣hended at Narbo, the very day that the King had but in the morning, embraced and kissed Cinque-Mars, and had talked very courteously to de Thou: having naturally that quality, and being practised to disgust his anger under fine language. The King being glad when the matter was over, but per∣plexed till it was put in execution, parts from Narbo. The same was done to de Bouillon at ••a∣sailles. The Prisoners are brought to Lyons, where by chosen Judges that were resolved to do Rich∣lieu's work before ever they heard the impeach∣ment, they are condemned to lose their lives. De Bouillon got off by the Surrender of Sedan, Cinque-Mars and de thou pay dear for their destructive friendship with the loss of their lives. Whether Cinque-Mars practised de Thou to draw him into the Plot, or whether de Thou was contented enough to be wrought upon, doth not appear. However both were upon a Scaffold beheaded, with great compassion of the Standers by, and lamentation of all the Country. De Thou bore his condition not stoutly, but with a Christian sense was long and ear∣nest at his prayers, which now might receive no comfortable return. No Criminal hath been known to suffer with more pity of the Beholders. D'Effiat received his Fate resolutely in the prime of his Youth, by his own vertues and others vices run∣ning

headlong upon Fame. The King was then onward in his Journey on the way to Paris, Rich∣lieu that was ever satisfied with punishment, never with repentance, ordered the execution, and almost looked on to see it done; and as if he took content to hear their dying groans, was loth to depart from Lyons, certified the King by Letter, that Perpignan was taken, and his Enemies cut off. Which was an unhandsom expression. Reason indeed there is to blame for ingratitude and indiscretion D'Effiat especially, who might easily have compassed by time only, what he attempted with over-hastiness, and by ill practices against the Laws both of God and man. The two poor men are worthily con∣demned for being Traitors: but the principal cause of their death was, because they could not brook with a slavish tameness to avow the fatal baseness of their Country. The one was Son to a Mareshal of France: The other received a great addition to his splendor from James Augustus Thua∣nus our most eminent Historian, of an Illustrious Family among those of the long Robe, prime Pre∣sident of the Parliament of Paris, a person renown∣ed, of great vertue, and by his ancient Linage al∣lied to many honourable Houses of France.

Richlieu, either haunted or stung in conscience at the remembrance of so many Executions, never free from discontent, gives out that the tenderness to his Country imported him beyond all private affections. And now more like a Sceleton than his Eminence, being carried upon the shoulders of men, hath houses broken down to make him room to come in at, so much French blood lost at home,

so much shed in the field disquiets and dejects his spirit now imprisoned in a languishing body. I have but one request to make the Readers of this Story, that they would not suffer so many Noble men executed to pass off in oblivion, as though they stole out from the Stage of the World. Let Persons of Honour challenge this Priviledge, that as they are distinguished from the Vulgar by their Funerals, so they may receive, a peculiar memorial in recording their fall, I mean the Vendosmes, the Ornani, the Marillaes, the Montmorancies, upon whom I judge it best not to dilate the Cramaillaes, the Bassompeirres, the Vistries, the Chastelneufs, with innumerable others basely imprisoned.

At length this scarcely breathing Corps, no∣thing benefited by the Waters of Borbogne, is brought to Paris, carrying about it the incentive of its own pain in a spirit more exulcerated than the body. Many marks of exasperation, formerly smothered, then burst out. Distrust of the King: a desire to remove such as were not Confidents: imposing upon his Masters ear by Chavigny, growing daily fierce through an habitual and implanted arrogan∣cy, whilst Lewis suspected Armand, Armand did no less suspect Lewis. A matter of Scandal!

In the mean time Richlien's distemper grew up∣on him. Many discoursed of the benefits of Li∣berty. The greatest number past their censure who were likely to succeed in favour: all called for Peace; cryed out against Wars which had been commenced against the House of Austria, not so much out of desire to enlarge the Empire, or upon any considerable expectation, as for the establishing

the power of Richlieu. Some few days before his last, His Majesty came to Town to visit the sick Cardinal. Many tears past on both sides, and to∣kens of affection. The King thought it his best course to lay aside his displeasure, and not to grate the memory of a dying man with any disgustful words. Therefore during the whole time of his sickness, he visited him by Messengers oftner than Kings are wont, and sent to him his principal Phy∣sitians; were it out of care, or to observe his con∣dition. The last day frequent intelligence was brought of his declining. No body imagining he would be so curious to enquire, what he should be sorry to hear, yet His Majesty put on his Counte∣nance an appearance of sadness, when he was sure that his grudge was satisfied: and conceiving he might now be safely kind, constrained himself to let fall a tear, and forced groans from a joyful breast.

Armand du Plessis Richlieu was born at Paris, of a noble and untainted Extraction; his Father was Francis du Plessis, his Mother Susanne du Port; he had a fair Estate which he wasted. First an Abbot, afterwards Bishop. No excellent Preacher, having fed upon the Chimaera's of the Sorbon, unacquaint∣ed with the more polite Learning, while the Mar∣ques d'Ancres was in favour, Secretary to the Queen Mother. Then confin'd to Avignon. Recalled from thence by her means, was made prime Mini∣ster of State. Shortly after the poor Lady found her favours over-hastily heaped upon him; for she being by his means chased out of the Kingdom, an Exile, having wandered thorow Holland and Eng∣land

without any certain abode, at length in Co∣logne, broken with afflictious, changed an unhappy life for a desirable death. But this by the way. To return to Richlieu, whole shape, if Posterity shall be so curious as to enquire, was comely and tall; nor wanted he gravity tempered with a graceful aspect. He lived 57 years: was in fa∣vour 18. Having passed a middle age, in respect of glory, and eternal fame may be judged to have run the longest period of life. For he had obtain∣ed whatever could be wished for. What could Fortune heap upon one so succcssful and accom∣plished? What was more blessed than for him con∣tinuing in Honour, flourishing in Fame, to secure future Events, seeing that nothing in Nature is so fickle as Power that depends upon anothers plea∣sure?

After the decease of Richlieu the Cabinet-Coun∣sel to the King were Cardinal Julius Mazarine, a Roman by birth, Leo Bouthillier Chavigny and Sou∣blet Noyer both Secretaries of State. This Trium∣virate did not agree. Some courting by secret ad∣dresses the Queen, others Monsieur, others the Dauphin, as the rising Sun.

Soublet a passionate man, somewhat fierce, pro∣fessing the Jesuitical Position, that vertue requires no other reward but that of a good conscience, which sets a generous lustre upon actions, under that veil disguised his ambition: a man of blame∣less conversation; for wisdom and judiciousness but indifferent, having such an estate, as he did not increase by any unworthy practices, though he wanted not opportunities to have done it, in that

point highly to be commended that he made not use of them. Greatly in Richlieu's favour for his observance and industry; one that so respected his friends in prosperity, as never to forsake them when they declined.

Leo Bouthillier had contracted pride from Rich∣lieu, whose support now failing, he thought it more seasable to get into be the second, than to aim at the prime Ministry. Therefore did he put Maza∣rine forward, but so as himself a while to pass for his equal, not as acting under him afterwards would have supplanted him; of which here∣after.

Mazarine whether by Fate or some peculiar Ge∣nius, won upon Inferiors, upon Equals, upon Su∣periors, by variety of applications. He had a comely Personage, but was most renowned for an acute and subtile wit, for experience in business, for vast designs, and equal successes; one who never gave Counsel, or laid Plot that did not prove effe∣ctual. To this was joyned such a discreetness of carriage, that though he had got above many, he was equally dear to all, charming envy by an Art of conversation. From these and such like qualities it was evident to such as can skill the Court, that he was the one man that must shortly carry all be∣fore him. Nor did it prove otherwise. For be∣ing imployed in the managing our State, and con∣sequently almost all Europe, he brought those En∣terprises to pass, which this day put the whole World in admiration.

His Majesty now wholly intending Peace, had resolved to send Cardinal Mazarine his Commissio∣ner

to the Treaty of Munster, whereof I shall speak afterwards: but altering his mind. thought it bet∣ter to use him as his prime Minister. Then first of all was Mazarine had in open Honour among us by being admitted to be God-father to the Dau∣phin, whom he named Lewis that is now the Four∣teenth, who shall be the Theme and Subject of our Work.

About this time the King falls sick at S. Ger∣mains. Prayers are made for his recovery. The Princes, the Nobility, and Commons attend the Issue of his weakness. He being sollicitous at the approach of death, had many debates in his mind, He thought it unsafe to trust the Queen with the Government, (Madam Cheureuse, which was her great Confident, then kept in Spain, and secret In∣telligence by Letters passing between them, dis∣pleased his Majesty) To Monsieur he was never truly reconciled. Therefore it is resolved to com∣mit the Government to neither: but that ten Mi∣nisters be chosen to bridle both their powers. At length His Majesties Will is made and sealed.

Each presently strive to insinuate themselves into the Queens favour by divers practices, especially Noyer that assumed to himself the glory of making the Will. He is supplanted by Chavigny, quits the Court, and asks leave to retire: soon after pines and frets himself to death; no Rules of Wisdom sufficing to still or sustain his Spirit. Chavigny stayed behind but as a shadow or empty appearance of business, Mazarine leaving no means unassay'd, got the sole Management. Which Prize having obtained, after much deliberation, having carefully

weighed his own and his Competitors interests, he let slip no kind of deference possible towards any, either in publick or private. All came in, ex∣cepting the Bishop of Beauvais, Beaufort, and Ma∣dame Cheureuse now returned to the French Court, that were afterwards turned all out of Favour, ha∣ving been the Contrivers of their own disgrace.

His Majesty sometimes a little cheered, then anon spent, when his death approached, spoke to the Queen, supported by her two Sons, and the Nobles standing by him, much to this purpose. Seeing that decay of Nature doth now bring my life to an end, I haste the few words that I am to speak will be the more sacred with you, the nearer I am entring up∣on those places of which Divines speak such glorious things. By this right hand which this day lays down the Scepter and transmits it to this your King (point∣ing at his Son and Heir) I advise and adjure you ever to pay him unspotted Loyalty. Reverence him, and do your diligence that such a prosperous State may not be impaired by my untimely death, and his tender age. I leave you a Kingdom firm and flourishing, and unless it offer, violence to it self by Civil dissensions, that can never come to other ruine. Not Armies, nor Treasures are the Pillars of this Empire, but Counsel and Concord.

More he said, which having been then publish∣ed, I forbear to transcribe hither. Looking upon Conde, Your Son (said he) hath won a brave Battel Now the D. d'Enguien was General in the Borders of Champaigne, and a little while after gave the Spaniard, laying an untimely Siege to Rocroy, a great Defeat; and having raised the Siege, and gi∣ven

them chase, went far up into their Country, and laid it waste. This glimpse the King gave, before he expired, rather after a prophetical sort, then that he was not perfect in his senses. He ear∣nestly advised Gaston Duke of Orleans to amend his life. Turning to the Duke of Engoulesmes said, that All things leaning only upon pleasure. are but fading; and repentance would follow speedily, or more late. Many other excellent sayings he uttered according to the Christian Doctrine of the Hope of a better life, and such sweet Consolations of Mortality that is very loth to think of coming to an end; which being so often thundered out in Pulpits, I here wave. No mortal man, either ancient or late, did so couragiously receive the assault of death.

At length May 15. 1643. he dyed an easie death. Lamented by some of his intimate friends, but worthy to have been followed with a larger mourning of all French-men, had he chosen to act by himself what he could well have done, rather than by Colleagues to whom he was all his life time obnoxious, to his own and Countries great preju∣dice. He was singularly courteous to all about him. Free from pride, yet retained Majesty and Gallantry of Spirit. Moderate in pleasures; entire∣ly loving his Kingdom: and had he been allowed a longer space of life, would have proved the best of Kings. Many observed that which perhaps is of no great importance, that the same day he came to the Empire, was the last of his life; for his Father Henry was murdered on the very same day of May.

2. The Princes and Nobles came all up to Town: and none made a greater shew of mourn∣ing

than they that were most glad at it. His Fune∣rals were performed in such order as is proper for Kings: and the exposing in State being over, his Corps is interred amongst his Predecessors at S. De∣nis, without any pomp, or but very little. Such directions had he given when he ordered concern∣ing his Burial.

When Lewis was dead, every one begun to enter∣tain serious thoughts of his own estate. I judge it therefore seasonable, before I compile the intended story, to declare how the Princes, the Parliament, the Ecclesiasticks, the Provinces, the Armies stood affected; what were the Bounds of the Empire; how firm the Allies; and in sum, what was the state of our Affairs; what Parts in the Government were strong, what again weak; So that not only the Products and Events of Actions, which or∣dinarily are but contingent, but the reason too and causes of them may be known.

The Death of Lewis, as it was joyfully taken at the first heat by those that were transported with it, so did it stir up divers thoughts and affections not only in the City and Parliament, but likewise in the Provinces, and amidst the Armies and Officers. The Followers and Friends of the Banished and Imprisoned begun to hold up their heads. The King towards his later days, whether stung in con∣science, or to throw an Odium upon Richlieu, and that he might lay at his door the cruelty of all pro∣ceedings, had recalled the Banished, and release those that had long lain in prison.

3. The Princes of the Blood were joyful, as is usual upon change of Government, resuming pre∣sently

their liberty with intention to use their pow∣er more licentiously, as having to do with, a King but five years old, a Spanish Woman, and Maza∣rine an Italian. For the Bishop of Beauvais did not long continue in favour, as one insufficient to draw in such a yoke, as his Rivals would make believe.

Gaston Duke of Orleans, the Kings Uncle, who had neither love, nor hatred, but as they were im∣prest: all his life time subject to the Tuition of his Counsellors, did at that time lead a life free from cares under the Conduct of the Abbot of Ri∣vieres, whose Counsels tending to Peace, he did not always follow to his own great damage. Then spent he his days in jollity, his nights in dancing, and drew money to bear these expences out of the Exchequer, which as long as it stood open to him, he never troubled himself about the Govern∣ment.

Conde was a profound Politician. He had a strange Art of living. Men coming new from the Plough, or Ship-broad, might find him neither stately nor guarded, and he would freely confer with them. He was open to all, and enquired into every thing, know every thing. He minded all affairs great and small; and so by these ways, more than the clashing of Arms, raised his Estate to vast Wealth, which he was the first Conde that every cared to heap up, and in that being very considerable and abounding, desired that nothing but the Ho∣nour of the Kingdom, and the Publick Welfare with his private Gains.

Enguien his Son leaving all care either of State or

Family to his Father, then only affected Martial Glory. And at that age a successful daring had in him the place of Valour: but when his parts attain to maturity, he shall come to the highest pitch of perfection. What he came afterwards to be, the order of the Story will inform. His Brother Conti¦newly come from School, did scarce write man, of an excellent disposition, which afterwards inclined to Religion, not that which consists in disputing, but in living, having the sap of good works: in seriousness; not out of ostentation.

Longueville Son in Law to Conde sailed in Condes Bottom, yet would meddle with all, but favoured none, save the strongest Party: if they came to be low, would slip his neck out of the Collar. After the Kings death, he had proposed to get all the strong Holds in Normandy under his Power, espe∣cially Havre de Grace; that so secured against the Normans, secured against the King, he might play Rex in that Port.

Vendosme the natural Son of Henry IV. by Gabri∣elle d'Estres, having his Estate consumed by so long adversities, solaced his mind grown savage by such continued Exile, either with the single remem∣brance of his former Fortune, or with the hopes of a better: nor did he plot any thing else, but how by all possible means to repair the Breaches of his decayed Family. The Duke de Mercoeur, his eldest Son lived in quiet. Beaufort his younger, did up∣on his own head prepare himself a way to the prime Ministry, for which attempt he afterwards was imprisoned, besides that he had somewhat to ••o with Mombazon. I am certainly informed,

that his late Majesty before his death, did very par∣ticularly recommend these Youths to the Queen.

The Duke of Guise resembling his Ancestors in Courage and Gallantry (with different success) came not up; but sacrificed his time in the Low-Countries upon courting and following his Amours to the expence of Reputation. The two younger Brothers inherited the popularity inherent to their Ancestors. At this juncture of Affairs, the remain∣ing Progeny of so many Heroes, that heretofore durst try for the Kingdom by Arms, now finds not place for so much as a wish, pretending to nothing more at this time than a thing very easie to com∣pass, that is, not to stir.

A Branch of the House of the Guises, Elboeuf and Harcourt depressed in their Estates, had no designs. This latter a stout and daring Souldier, afterwards tossed in variety of Fortunes: about whom I shall have occasion hereafter to speak not a little.

Those of Nemours made French from a Savoy stock, of a numerous male Line were but two left; the Elder of which had a great spirit in a small bo∣dy: but his thred of life being soon cut off, left his Brother Successor, who held nothing of that fa∣mous House but their blameless manners. Such were our Princes, not any either willing or able to work an Alteration. All of them subscribed to the present Government, beating their heads about many things to no effect. This is the Quality of the French, especially Courtier, to make much stir that presently vanishes in the air. To bind one another in deceitful bonds, afterwards to flye off, and betray one another. A Crafts Master will easily break through such Cobwels.

4. Now the Parliament of Paris, they do not dislike the present State. This is a great Body compounded of divers Humors. At a certain sum of money (which is undecent) they purchase this Degree, For themselves and their Heirs. Most of them live above their Estates, and having wasted their means, either by their Wives, or their Chil∣drens, or their own prodigality long after a Change. Their Office, if the matter be lightly scann'd, is to preserve every mans propriety, to com∣pose differences, to mitigate the increase of Taxes, and retrench ways of Oppression that have been invented more grievous than Taxes; to encourage Trade: a∣bove all, to advance the Kings Honour; to teach the people that by their own good example; never to clash with nor dispute the Kings Commands: but humbly petition him; and hold the Princes Will for the Su∣preme Law. This ought to be the Temper of the Parliament of Paris, which hath been heretofore the Rule of Right, the Bound of Equity, and the Pillar of Law: to which, as to an Oracle, all Na∣tions came from every part to be resolved: but, as all things grow worse by length of time, so is that fallen from its ancient Glory. I speak of the most, not of all. For that Court even to this day, can produce brave men, who maintaining their State with integrity, do bear up that tottering Fabrick: and who being carried away with the stream of the Seditious, have groaned over their own Ordinan∣ces. That purple Assembly hath and will yet add great weight to the Kings not only Decrees, but Actions also. Therefore after the decease of Lewis, it was strictly observed which way the Scale would

turn. By the consent of Orleans, Conde, and the Parliament the whole Government was committed to the Queen under the name of Regent. Then was it not objected against Mazarine his being an Alien. Nay soon after he is counted worthy to be chosen, and that with the Applause of the Senate for the man to whom the Hopes and Helm of the Kingdom should be intrusted, that the Competition among the Princes might by that expedient be re∣moved. This the Soul of Lewis now in Heaven intimated: the Queen had fulfilled her Husbands meaning.

5. Mazarine casting with himself what is hurt∣ful and what profitable, past this Sentence upon the Clergy: These are his words counselling the Queen Regent. The Sacred Order for these many years hath had but a thin harvest of excellent Persons, how∣ever it come to pass. Men follow after nice Questions, live idly, do not embrace serious Studies. All is done with Pomp, nay if any Sermons be to be made, and the very venerable Sacrifice offered. Of their Office they lay claim to nothing, but their Rents: the Duty of Preaching, which is the principal Dignity of a Bishop, they quit to any one, though never so insuffi∣cient. They think themselves Bishop enough, if they can but ride in fine Coaches, with their Arms set on, outvy one another in rich Liveries and Lacquais; and punish with rigour those that transgress in the least matters. Perpetual Haunters of Ladies Couches, not without undervaluing the Pastoral Staff. This is for the most part, for there are some that lead holy and unreproveable lives; He that shall take offence, will owne himself not to be one of these, but •• those other.

So much power hath Religion over the minds of men, that as often as amongst men in holy Orders any eminent Vertue hath got up, and overcome the common attain∣ments and the vices of mankind, it is adored like a Deity. At that time that Company was of no weight nor moment in France, said Mazarine I am trou∣ble, and in a manner unwilling to write this; but plain dealing and faithfulness doth at present of∣fend those that it meets with, afterwards it is ad∣mired and commended.

There was Francis Paul Gondy, by Extraction a Florentine, but born in France, Abbot of Rhetz, afterwards Coadjutor to the Bishop of Paris, Arch∣bishop of Corinth; one that, if occasion had offer∣ed, would have aspired high, as Cardinal Mazarine confessed he was perswaded. Over and above an honourable Family, he had Eloquence and Learn∣ing, with promptness of Spirit. Very free of other mens money; not careful to pay his debts, though his Creditors were in the greatest necessities, but rather forward to bestow courtesies. He regarded more to engage many, than to seek that any should make him requital; of a lofty mind: had many designs in his head: catching at opportunities, waited for some alteration only to advance his Honour.

6. The Provinces being wasted, torn, and haras∣sed with Taxes, Impositions, and Free-Quarters, cryed out for nothing else but Peace; yet in a rea∣diness to couch under greater burdens. So great is their Obedience and Loyalty to their Soveraign. Their Governors were men engaged, that would hear the yoke quietly. There were then no Mount∣morencies

nor Les Diguieres, which heretofore at their least motion, would make the Court shake. That Rohan who for fourteen years together trod upon the Bowels of the State, to maintain by Arms the new Profession, was long since gone out of the world, and had left none behind him that could answer the reputation of such a mighty Name.

The Innovators (for that name I shall use) wea∣ried with Wars, their Head being taken off at the winning of Rochel, the Seat of the Rebellion, pant∣ed after nothing but to be at quiet; which is wonderful at that change. And because that Re∣ligion could abet so much mischief, it were not amiss to lay open the Rise and Principles of it, lest Posterity should be ignorant thereof.

John Calvin, at first called Chauvin of Noyon, was the Author of the Innovation, that having quitted France, retired to Geneva whitber such persons flock and are in high credit. Charles was King, and Ka∣therine Queen-Mother, who yet made no scruple to prosecute the Innovators with fire and sword, as Cri∣minals and deserving most exquisite torments. Such tortu••es hath foolish man invented against himself up∣on easiness of perswasion. At S. Bartholomews-day it was resolved at one stroke to cut off the springing Hydras head, by an action unworthy of the French name, and such as Seyn with all its waters can ne∣ver wash out. The Religion at present check'd, burst out again, not only in France, but over the Suisse, Ger∣man, and English. Some of the Princes took part: whence were battels and slaughters in several parts. Calvin set up Rites contrary to the Divine Institu∣tion: and as a principal Doctrine instilled into his

Followers, that the sanctifying Wafer, the sacred Bread is not turned into Christ by the muttering of the Priest, which I tremble to mention: the supreme object of their Worship is not kneaded by the Bakers hands, nor changeable, nor subject to corruption; they vilifie the Sacrifice of the Mass, and Prayers for the Dead. That there is a Heaven and Hell: they are perswaded but not at all that there is a Purgatory. That the Pope cannot make Saints, and as to them, that Heaven is never the fuller. They give the Virgin but little honour: and only such as is far less than her Sons. Prayer, they say, is not to be made to her. Reliques and dead Bones of Saints they make a jest of. Indulgences for buying of sins at a certain sum of mo∣ney to be paid: they slight and confidently affirm men might imploy their money better. The Pope they de∣spise, as a meer Phantosm and empty appearance: do not dread his Bulls the Vatican Thunder-bolts: affirm it to be a Sword whose edge consists in bare imagi∣nation. To empty the sink of sin into the cars of the Priest, they take for a principal argument of a weak understanding. The load of Confession, they call a Pack of Humane Constitutions. To displease ones ap∣petite with fish and dry meats in Lent, Phrensie; as also empty ones self with mortifying Fasts at that time, because no leaf in the Old or New Testament en∣joyns it. And when the year renews, and the floating humors begin again to work, then to be tyrannized over two whole months, and the youth of the year to be clouded with sadness, and when Nature designs this that our bodies being purged from unwholesom hu∣mors, should be replenished with new juyces, that to have them corrupted with meer putrefactions, and s••lt

meats, and that by the doting of them, who touch no such things themselves, but enjoyn solemn Fasts, reli∣giously abstaining. This they say of our Lent. In other things always pretend the Bible, quote Scri∣ptures; in Disputes tire our strongest, dissatisfie those of middle parts, catch not a few. Their Teachers they call Ministers, not distinguished in habit from the Laity. And because they have like passions as other men, they allow them to marry wives of their own, counting that better than for them to corrupt other mens; which they malignantly charge upon the un∣married and chast Order. Their Temples are naked and censed with Prayers. They have their Commu∣nions with a crust of Bread, and sip of Wine on certain days in memory of the Lords Supper. That God be∣ing a pure Spirit, is to be worshipped with a pure spi∣rit: not with Beads, which they call in derision the Serpents eggs. They dislike Monasteries where, they say, innumerable happy Wits are unhappily stifled and buried alive, which might have been chosen Vessels of the Lord, had they with judgment taken to a course agreeable to their nature: thus they speak. Geneva the Head of the Religion, a City of the Allobroges, was under the Government of their own Bishops, but hath now flung off their yoke, and continues as yet a free State. Vnder the Walls the Rhosne runs free, and with its own waters through the Lacus Lema∣nus. A Lake of a vast compass, like a Sea roars and raises billows. The City is situate on high, and strengthned with Works and Banks. The Walls take in two Hills, artificially bending or winding in∣wards, of a pleasant prospect, and delightful to the Beholders. In that place men and women are alike

obstinate, and all do construe that they have so great assurance of God, that they do not turn to truth even in adversity, as if so be they should be forced to receive the Catholicks, they would stand more in fear of life than death.

I have somewhat the more largely discoursed about that Sect, because an opportunity hath offer∣ed, and no others did more largely contribute heretofore to the Rebellion: by the Example of Tacitus that digresses somewhat freely in the Reli∣gion of the Jews: but especially of Polybius, who being a chief Master in these cases slackens the reins of History with far greater digressions. There is no more certain Argument of ignorance and chil∣dishness, than to refuse knowledge, and assume an ability of Judgment after such eminent men.

Therefore that Party which had so often been prevalent to the ruine of France, after the death of Lewis XIII. either subdued, or quiet of themselves, gave no disturbance, although they had reason to be proud of Thurenne and Gassion, being brave men both of whom had a worthy Name, but with dif∣ferent success.

The former would wisely pitch upon the advan∣tage of ground; often gain a Victory without blood or mourning. Curb the Enemy, by delay seldom venturing a Battel, with good advice for Peace or War by conduct and providence, insatia∣ble of glory; and ingrossing to himself all the suc∣cesses of the Battel, would secretly charge upon his Fellow-Officers all the errours or misfortunes, would protract Wars out of Art, or design of con∣tinuing long in Commission. Having a natural

pride of his Nobility; comparable to ancient Com∣manders, far the chiefest of his own age.

Gassion out-••••••ned the Line of his Ancestors, though not mean, with his own valour, hasty to execute his hopes: never making any long debate upon matters; nothing could restrain his fiery cou∣rage; with unwearied charges day and night would tire out the Enemy; was able to discharge bdth duties of Souldier and Captain. Joyful at the very dangers, as others are at the rewards of dan∣gers. Both affected to the King; neither under colour of Religion affected alteration of State.

7. Our Armies, survivors of so many dangers, swollen with a long train of Victories, thought nothing difficult. Lewis Bourbon Enguien blaz'd like a Star dreadful to the Nations, thwarting the French Interest. Rocroy was the dawn of his rising Glory, and a presage of his future Greatness. All was prosperous and quiet. France at concord and united, reached over Almania from the Mazeli•• brink to beyond the Rhine. By the Victory at Norlingue, the parts confining on the Danube were afterwards invaded, and terrour struck on all sides In Spain, by seizing Tortosa and Flix, we were got to the River Iber. Our Fleets ranged over the Me∣diterranean and Ocean.

9. All Italy from the Pope, who was then Vr∣ban VIII. to the least Princes bore reverence. The Dukes of Savoy, Mantoua and Modena rather Instru∣ments of French slavery, than free Princes, In Germany the Kings of Swethland and Denma•• boasted of our friendship; the Pole-sued for it. The Electors thought themselves hardly used unless they

might be admitted to some room in our favour. Portugal torn from Spain, depended on the looks of France, whose yoke Catalaunia had willingly put on, being weary of the Spanish Dominion. The Low-Countries stuck close to us. The King of England that now discovered the seeds of Innova∣tion and Civil War to spring up, did sollicitously oblige us to him.

Europe with astonishment stood gazing at such a state of our Affairs; nothing was wanting to com∣pleat our happiness besides moderation, and the Art of enjoying it. Our Princes were in concord, and stood in awe of the Queens look, who supported by the counsels of Mazarine, did so manage the Reins of the Publick Fate, as that the Kingdom flourished, and all Enterprises at home and in the field succeed∣ed prosperously, and even to envy. She married young, and having been bred strictly, bore with an equal temper her Husbands knidness or slighting. A Woman for holiness of life after the ancient man∣ner. A Queen couragious, and not to be conquer∣ed by adversity; of great judgment; cunning to dissemble, or to conceal; in alterations would not discover any change. This was resolved of stout∣ly to maintain her Children and Kingdom; in the mean time, during the Kings Minority, not to ex∣asperate the Princes, but hold an even seal between them. Being but newly abroad from her close mourning, she cast out such expressions: Faithful Armies shall defend the French Empire; him (point-at the King) his own Majesty. The Palace was free from those vices which are wont to grow rank in Courts. The Kings Childhood shot up under the

nurture and admonitions of Mazarine; to whom was also taken on as a second Villeroy, one well versed in our State-affairs, skilled in the Court, a quick foreseer of Interests likely to get upper∣most.

Our Nobles, all of them wholly set upon what they could rake together, or fish out before the King should come to be of Age, to restrain their outragious greediness. The French have this cu∣stom, to think themselves dull and negligent of their Estates, unless they get some Boon from a new Prince, from whom they think they are to draw as from a Torrent that will not always run; especially by reason of the Ministers foreignness, which they were confidently perswaded they might easily baffle. Even many private persons were craving. Maza∣rine granted every one that for which he was im∣portuned, and spared for no cost, so he might but render them engaged and faithful to the Queen: won whomsoever he could at that time, by gratifi∣cations. In the mean while the poor Exchequer was pillag'd by Court-Leeches.

Mazarine foresaw much, that time would be when the heaping up of money would occasion mischief. Nothing at that time did so much per∣plex his thoughts. The safety and Honour of the Kingdom he desired; could not attain this with∣out Arms, nor Arms without pay; nor pay with∣out Taxes, nor Taxes without vexation, nor vexa∣tion long without complaints, in a State condemn∣ing every thing, and to be feared for its excess: that is not to be satisfied but by ill practices, which draw dangerous consequences. Prosperity had al∣ready

debauched their minds: Wealth was in Ho∣nour, poverty accounted a reproach. After Riches Luxury, and Covetousness its attendants, with pride had broke in: they tore, they wasted, they built Houses and Villa's like Cities. What should I go on to mention that which will be scarce credi∣ble to posterity? They so far abused their ill gotten riches, that very many Receivers, (Partisans they call them) the Wens of Mankind, have levelled Mountains, and raised Plains to Mountains, have built them houses, with which for habitation may compare neither Kings nor Emperors. To furnish their Table, they search all that may be got by Sea or Land. They purchase luxury by gains, Rapines by luxury: and it is their highest value for an Estate, to lavish an Estate. Hereupon when their means fail, they set upon Change of Government, to get more to spend. It was ordinarily pleaded, That by the increase of the Kingdom private mens Estates were come to fuller growth. That money is now at another rate than heretofore in the Kingdom, when small, where the houses were but little; That nothing is over-much, where is power; all things are to answer the Possessors fortune. A confession of Vices, and the likeness of Delinquents easily was consented to under plausible names.

10. Thus was it in the City fruitful for engen∣dring mischiefs, and that is of so great moment, that whithersoever it lean, thither do all things in a man∣ner bend; because in it the strength and hopes of the whole Kingdom are placed; and because the Govern∣ment divides from them all abroad. It dispenseth to all the Provinces, Officers intrusted with Arms and

Laws: it receives into its bosom all sorts of stran∣gers: and cherisheth mankind upon a commonty, not like a Dame, but Mother, whom it receives, it calls Denizens; and obligeth to it self in a bond of natural affection those that are in the remote parts of the world. Let not ancient Rome compare her self, nor all the Illustrious Cities in the East. It will issue out four Cities without any loss of the people exhausted, it will set out 100000 Souldiers: and yet the streets cram'd. It will nobly entertain four Kings coming on a sudden; and the Citizens have plenty, being cut in∣to parts by its Seine that carrieth on its back, supplies sufficient to sustain whole Kingdomes.

Presently upon the death of Lewis, it was quiet and joyful at its own condition; but it was con∣jectured by no obscure signs, that from it only a storm would rise, that should discharge upon the whole Nation.

Mazarine was unable to satisfie so many lusts, the Treasury being almost already drawn dry. Every one thinks himself considerable for business: and thereafter expects wages, gaping after reward: hence issue out Spies and Trapans, the main concern of whose life is to know and to be unknown, that Gang of Informers swarms in teachy times: a Tribe insatiable, subtle, false, that will at all times condemn, and at the same times will be cherished. Orleans, Conde, Mazarine, Longueville, Seguier, Bryenne, Bouthillier, Chauvigny, his Son, and Ser∣vienne went for the Counsel of State: But at that very time Fame gave out that Mazarine was all in all, the rest but shadows, that went along with him, and moved at his motions; for the Queen

concluded with him all matters of importance, as with her only Cabinet-Counsellor: the rest taken to sit at the board for Pomps sake, that they might debate things resolved before-hand, and might please themselves with an empty appearance of Go∣vernment. And to say the truth, Mazarine did then openly present Richlieu risen from the dead. Which two, because so lucky an occasion is offered, I have not thought fit to pass over, without decla∣ring the Nature and Qualities of both, as far as my weak parts can reach.

11. In the much that I have read, and have ob∣served, it is evident from the first foundations of the Kingdom to these present times, that the excellent vertue of a few have done all the great Actions. Among them two persons have been most eminent for their transcendent merits, Armand Richlieu, and this our Julius Mazarine, differing in qualities, dif∣fering in Country: both of the same rank in the Church, both of Illustrious Extraction. Their Age, Eloquence were alike, Courage equal; also their Glory: but other advantages each had to himself in particular. Armand was accounted great for his magnificent Works: Julius surpassed him in splendour of life. The formers severity made him awful: The latters gentleness and mercy made him renowned. Richlieu by lavishing and by pu∣nishing; Mazarine by pardoning and wary dis∣pensing obtained glory. The ones easie and for∣ward bounty was commended: The others slack∣ness in giving was condemned. Those that offend∣ed Richlieu were certain to be destroyed: Maza∣rines Enemies took Sanctuary in Mazarine himself.

That other carried all with a high hand: This with an imperious stilness; that was well versed in the French Kingdom: This acquainted with the States of the World. That dyed in the heat of Wars, uncertain of events. This after peace setled secure of success. That to the joy of his King; this, while his King wept over him, expired in his Arms. However the Relation contained in this Book is necessary, and as I hope not ungrateful, that What persons the Reader is to see engaged with va∣riety of Fortune, he may have their conditions also, and temper, and as it were picture before his eyes.

For whereas all History consists of Men and A∣ctions, I have judged it fit, more to insist upon them than these; because it hath more influence upon humane life in reference to the example, for one to know what were the several dispositi∣ons of men, than for heads to be filled with insigni∣ficant Stories. The principal matter is, to be read in men. Fortune having taken much away from me, hath left me the conversation of the French Natures, which I do here in a manner limbe. This in truth is more profitable than to be informed of bare particular occurrents. I compose and write what another Age will read. Our own disregard∣ing it self, as having left off to do commendable Actions, thinks it impertinent to be praised or dis∣praised, and defies Images, because it dreads them. As to Mazarine, I speak not of his Fortune, but of himself; who was known to me not for any obli∣gation, but many wrongs, that I received from him; since my whole family is beholding to him

singly for its calamities. Nevertheless such is the power of truth, that I cannot slothfully suppress the praises of so great a Personage, but am over∣ruled to give them their due Encomium, leaving to others to dilate in flattering Discourses.