An account of His Excellence, Roger Earl of Castlemaine's embassy from His Sacred Majesty James IId, King of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, &c. to His Holiness Innocent XI published formerly in the Italian tongue by Mr. Michael Wright ... and now made English ; with several amendments and additions.

AN ACCOUNT OF HIS EXCELLENCE THE EARL OF Castlemaine's Embassy, To His Holiness, INNOCENT XI^th. &c.

IT having still been the Custom of all the Great Princes, in Communion with the Church of Rome (on their first acces∣sion to the Throne) to send an Embassador to that Court, His Majesty thought it became Him also to do the like; And in pur∣suance thereof, among the number of able per∣sons, which (to the glory of the English Nation) this Court never wanted, none (with all due

respect to the rest) stood fairer in His Majestys eye, for that Negotiation, than The Right Ho∣nourable, Roger Earl of Castlemaine, A Nobleman of an Antient Family, Polite Learning, ready parts, and who, by a well-digested Travel, and Experience in Forreign Courts, had render'd himself qualifi'd, for the greatest Trust.

On him therefore, as a person Parem Nego∣tiis, His Majesty conferr'd the Honour, of His Embassador Extraordinary to His Holiness Innocent the XI^th, now Pope of Rome: A Prince, whose open hand, to the Late Defence of Christendom, may (to pass his other Vertues) put it out of que∣stion, whether He received more Honour from The Chair, than He has added to it.

In short, all preliminary matters being ad∣justed, and his Commission, and Credentials re∣ceiv'd, His Excellence The Lord Embassador, made ready for his Journey; and having form'd his English Retinue, of seven Gentlemen, six Pages, three Valets de Chamber, and such other menial

servants, and equipage, as could be then got ready, most of them were shipt off, about six weeks before him, for Leghorne, with Orders to wait him there; himself having resolv'd, to make his Journey through France: And that, that, might be the easier, His Excellence took to him as his companions, The Honourable Thomas Arundel Esq Grandson to the Lord Arundel of Warder, now Lord Privy-Seal; Henry Tichburne Esq; eldest Son of Sir Henry Tichburne, Liev^t. of the Ordnance; The Honourable Thomas Ratcliffe Esq; Son of the Lord Ratcliffe; Barth. Walmesley, of Dunkan-Hall, in the County of Lancaster Esq; And Tho. Eggleston, of Eggle∣ston, in the same County Esq; (which three last, went before, and met his Lordship at Paris) And having taken leave of their Majestys, there remain'd no∣thing, but to set forward on his Journey.

On the 5^th. of Feb. 1685. S. V. His Excel∣lence took water for Greenwich, accompany'd with several Noble Personages, that brought him so far on his way; where, after a hearty farewel, and

the repeated Wishes, of a good Voyage, and as safe a Return, he imbark'd on board the Heneretta Maria Yacht, Capt. Fesby Commander, who lay there for him, and receiv'd him, with the usual ceremony, of fiering Guns, as in like cases.

His Excellence designing to be Incognito all the way, had none now with him, but Mr. Arun∣del, Mr. Tichburne (before mentioned) Mr. Lidcott (since that time, Sir John Lidcott) Secretary to the Embassy; Mr. Michael Wright, Steward of his houshold; Mr. Stephen Piper, Gentleman of his Horse; Signior Francisco, his Italian Secretary; Mr. Nicholas Furnys, Sewer; two Pages, two of his Chamber; and some half a dozen others of his Family, for his ordinary service on the Road; and with these, the Yacht put off that Evening, for Diepe; his Lordships Plate, Furniture, Liverys, and other the Impedimenta of so long a Journey, being left behind, with order to take the oppor∣tunity of the first wind, and expect further orders, at Civita Vecchia, the Port of Rome.

In two days and a half his Excellence arrived at Diepe, where, notwithstanding his reso∣lution, and endeavours of having past the whole Journey, in as much privacy, as the occasion would bear, he receiv'd the Complements, of the Governour, and City, in a manner urging him, that his Excellence would be pleas'd to per∣mit himself, and the Magistrates of that City, to pay him some publick respect; which, his Lord∣ship would by no means hearken to, but sent two of his Gentlemen to acknowledge, the cour∣tesie, and represent to them, the resolution be∣fore mentioned.

From Diepe, his Excellence, (with the Gentleman of his Horse, a Page, and a Valet de Chamber) took Post for Roan; and thence, to Pa∣ris, where the rest of his Servants soon after ar∣riv'd: And in the eleven days his Lordship stay'd there, with the same resolutions, of being Incognito, it was not yet possible, to avoid the numerous ca∣resses that were daily made him; for (besides

the Extraordinary Envoy of England, and the rest of our Nation (who according to their duty, al∣most hourly attended him) The most Eminent Ranutzzi, Apostolick Nuntio to that Crown; the Marshal d'Humiers, and other considerable Persons of the French Court, were not wanting, in their personal Visits: And here it was, that the most Reverend Monsignior Cenci, Vice-Legat in Avignion, first apply'd to his Excellence, that he would be pleas'd to take that City in his way, and to ac∣cept of such entertainment there, as might at least testifie the satisfaction they receiv'd, in be∣holding once more, an English Embassador in that City: Nor did the Vice-Legat think this Invi∣tation so sufficient, but that he seconded it at Lions, and in a manner prest it, beyond the power▪ of a refusal: Whereupon the Lord Embassador dispatcht Mr. Wright, to Avignion, to complement his Lordship in his name, and withall to signifie to him, that his Excellence accepted his kindness, provided it did not prejudice his design, of passing privately, even to Rome.

About twenty miles short of Avignion, Mr. Wright was met by the Vice-Legat's Secre∣tary, where he not only waited his Excellence's coming, but had laid all cross Roads, with a suit∣able attendance, lest possibly, by design, or ac∣cident, his Excellence might have past him, some other way: In short, the Secretary having under∣stood the occasion of Mr. Wright's coming, gave him a Letter to his Lord, which, with his Excel∣lence's commands, he presented the Vice-Legat; further assuring him, that the Lord Embassador would be with his Lordship, within a day, or two, after him.

Whereupon, the Vice-Legat order'd the whole Garrison to be in Arms, and that all the Cannon, should be ready for fiering, upon his Excellence's entry; And the next afternoon went out, toward the Roan, himself, with a noble and splendid Equipage: The Horse with their Banner display'd, led the way, then follow'd his Lordship the Vice-Legat's Coach, in which, with himself,

were the Consuls, some chief Magistrates, and Mr. Wright, surrounded by a Guard of Swizts, and a numerous train of Foot-men, in rich Li∣veries: Then follow'd five other of his Lordships Coaches, and after them, about sixty others, with the Nobility, and Principal Persons of the City in them, and a suitable number of Laquies, and other attendance, in which order, they march'd to the River side, where, for near three hours, they expected his Excellence's arrival; but no∣thing appearing that evening, they return'd; and the next day, marcht out as before, when at last, about Sun-set, they might see a cover'd Barge, wherein his Excellence was: On this, the Vice-Legat, and his company lighted, and approacht his Barge; nor had his Lordship sooner set his foot on shore, than he made up to the Vice-Legat, and after mutual embraces (and the Lord Embassadors Complement, to the Nobility, and a full shout of the people) his Excellence went into the first Coach, with the Vice-Legat, and

the Consuls, and then all march'd back, through a multitude of Torches to the City.

Upon the first entry, the Drums, Trum∣pets, and Joynt-voices of the people, spake his Excellence's welcome; which was answer'd, by the Cannon, from the Walls, and from thence (through a Guard of Souldiers on either hand, the Balconys and Windows, so stuck with lights, that one would have thought the City, some new Constellation) they came to the Pope's Pallace; where, the Vice-Legat having conducted his Lordship, to the richest, and noblest apartment, left him a while, with those Noble Persons, that had waited on him to the City; and having put on his Prelatical habit, came back again, to make his more solemn Visit, which his Excellence (af∣ter the Vice-Legat's departure) accompany'd with the same Nobility, return'd him again, in his own appartment.

During this time, the Vice-Legat had invited those English Cavaliers (that accompany'd

the Embassador) with two chief Military Officers, and ten Principal Officers of the City, to bear his Excellence company, at Supper, which was no less sumptuous, than magnificent: It consisted of four services, each, of nine grand Dishes, and fourteen Inter-messes, and to render it yet grea∣ter, it wanted not the pride of the Italian Musick.

About the middle of Supper, his Ex∣cellence began A health to His Holiness, at which, He, and all the company stood bare-headed, and six great Guns were fire'd; which in all respects, was as punctually observ'd, when the Vice-Legat return'd it, in A health to our Soveraign, The King of Great Britain; Nor is it to be forgotten, that during this time of Supper, his Excellence's Gentlemen, were nobly treated, in another Ap∣partment.

The day following, being the Feast of the Annuntiation, the Vice-Legat, and the before men∣tioned Noble Persons, conducted his Excellence, to High Mass, in the Jesuits Church of that City;

where, after a most solemn, vocal, and instru∣mental Musick, the young Nobility, Scholars of the Colledge, presented the Lord Embassador, with Devises, Epigrams, and other compositions, more immediately relating to His Majesty, and His Dominions; such few of which, as they came to hand, were thought fit to be inserted, and that, the rather, because the English Nation (how∣ever discontinu'd, this last Century) had once, a more than ordinary Genius, and aptness, that way; as he that shall turn Hall's Henry the 8^th. Sir Philip Sidney, or Cambden's Remains, may find much of this kind, and (perhaps) not unworthy his time. And they, were such as these.

A Stock of Bees, flying to an empty Hive, the King-Bee in their Head. The word (unde aberraverant) Whence they had fled astray. Intimating thereby, the general defection of His Majestys Kingdoms, and voluntary return, to their former obedience.

A Kite, hovering in the Air, and Chick∣ens,

running under the Hen. The word (—Dis∣persos congregat—) It gathers 'em again. Denoting thereby, The good effects of His Majestys Indul∣gence, when all His Subjects, how divided soever among themselves, run under His wing for shel∣ter, against the Tyranny of those Penal Laws, which, have either disperst them into other Countreys, or made them uneasie at home.

The morning Star. The word (—Diei praevius almae)—Forerunner of the Day. Shewing thereby, That the Day is not far behind; And that His Majestys Subjects (since the Day-spring from on High, had visited them) want not a Light, to guide their feet, into the way of peace.

A Ship half foundring in the Sea, The Polar-Star in the Clouds: The word (Dum videam satis est—) 'tis yet enough I see 't—signifying thereby, that England (which may be well exprest by a Ship) can never miscarry, whilst she sees her great Monarch, or Cynosure, to direct her.

These, and the like, not without parti∣cular

Elogies, to the Lord Embassador, were the entertainment of the morning; and that over, the whole company return'd to the Palace, where, a Dinner, even superiour to the Supper, waited them, and that, so beautifully garnisht, with in∣termixt Figures, relating to the Triumphs of Eng∣land, that the like, had been scarce there before, or to be seen any where again, if his Excellence the Lord Embassador, had made no entertain∣ment at Rome.

And that it might not be said of Avig∣nion, as once of Rome, That they were (Populus viro∣rum, deerant faeminae) A people of men, without women, It was resolv'd among the noble Ladys of the City, to make the Complement entire, by bearing a part in the Symphony; And to that purpose, they met in the house of Signior de Blewac, a principal Gentleman of that City, and therein too, so gloriously attir'd, as they had design'd a contest, between Art, and Nature; for could they have wanted Luster in themselves, the splendor

of their Jewels, spake them no less, than clad in Star-light.

In short, they made his Excellence, and the Persons of Honour with him, an invitation to an evening divertisement of Cards, which his Lordship accepted; and after an hour or two's mirth, took leave, and retir'd to the Palace, where he was honour'd with a splendid Banquet, and the morning following, with another, in regard his Excellence had refus'd, the Vice-Legat's ob∣liging violences, of having detained him longer; but nothing prevailing, he was attended out of the City, with the same solemnity he first entred it; nor could the Vice-Legat be perswaded to look back, till he had conducted his Excellence six miles on his way; where at last, the Horse be∣ing drawn up, the Coaches stopt, and all the train allighting, they made a circle about his Excel∣lence, and the Vice-Legat; when after mutual embraces, and the Pathetick acknowledgments, of the obligations receiv'd, his Excellence

mounted the Vice-Legat's first Coach, and set forward to Cavaillon.

Nor was his Lordship sooner arriv'd there, than the Magistrates honour'd him with a solemn Visit, Speech, and Banquet; so difficult it was to pass any way, but the report of his com∣ing, flew before him.

From Cavaillon his Excellence came by Litter to St. Massimine; thence to Canes, and thence, to Nizza, where he took boat for Genoa; But pas∣sing by Monaco, the Master of the Felucca, was ob∣lig'd to come on shore, and so discover'd whom he had aboard; on which, he was stopt, till ad∣vice was sent to the Prince, who immediately dispatcht his Secretary, and a Knight of Malta, to invite his Excellence to his Castle; which, his Lordship (with due sense of the obligation) refu∣sing, sent Mr. Lidcott and Mr. Wright, to comple∣ment his Highness, with his acknowledgments of the honour intended him, and to further signifie, the Lord Embassadors resolutions, of passing In∣cognito.

However, the Prince would take no denyal, but came in person to the water side, and having at last prevail'd, conducted his Excellence to his Palace, or Castle, scituated on an impregnable Rock, (Drums, and Trumpets sounding, and great Guns fireing) where the magnificence of of that night, and the next morning, came short in nothing, of Him that made it: Nor would his Highness yet suffer his Lordship to depart, till Himself, his Court, and Officers, had brought him to the Felucca; the Guns not giving over, till the Boat was out of sight.

From Monaco, the Lord Embassador past St. Remo, Nola, and Savona, without much trouble; and at last arriv'd at Genoa, where the most serene Republick sent three of their Gentlemen, of the first quality (Spinola, Grimaldo, and Durazzo) to complement his Excellence, and (notwithstand∣ing his privacy) to shew him the Town: They proffer'd him also a Gally to Civita Veccia; which last civility, being (with all respect) refus'd, his

Lordship from Genoa, came to Ligorne, where His Eminence, Cardinal Howard of Norfolk, had alrea∣dy sent, the Gentleman of his Horse, to comple∣ment his Excellence in his name, and wait on him to the End of his Journey: Cap^t. Nangle also (on the part of the Grand Duke) and Mr. Ball (with the English Factory) stood ready to receive him at his landing, and to conduct him (as they did) to the house, which his Highness had order'd for Him; There his Lordship found not only all ne∣cessary Provisions, but a splendid Regal, of very curious Wines and Sweet-meats; for which Ge∣nerosity (so natural to that Great Prince) his Ex∣cellence sent him next day (by the Secretary of the Embassy) his Acknowledgment and Thanks to Ambrogiana (about thirty miles off) and then took Post for Rome; lying at Montefiascone, in hopes of having pass'd Viterbo early, and undisco∣ver'd: But he could not out-do the Diligence of Monsignior Vincentini the Governour, who met him some miles out of Town, and bringing

him to the Palace, gave him a very great and noble Collation.

Three Posts distant from Rome, his Ex∣cellence was met, by a Coach and six Horses, from his Eminence, the Cardinal of Norfolk; the next Post, by another from her Highness the Dutchess of Modena (Mother to Her Majesty) in which, was the Count Codebo her Secretary; and one other, from the Resident of Portugal, with some of his Gentlemen in it; as also with one of my Lord Embassador's own Coaches, made for him, against his arrival.

A little on this side Ponte Molle (being a mile and half short of Rome) was the Lord Car∣dinal himself, with Signior Paolo Falconieri, (a Flo∣rentin Gentleman, that had been in England with the Duke) and afterwards (nor undeservedly) in high esteem with his Excellence: Here, after the usual complements and ceremonies were ended, the Lord Embassador went into the Cardinal's Coach, and so came together, to his Eminence's

Palace in Rome, upon Easter Eve, S. N. about an hour after Sun-set; where, Himself, and Family, were magnificently treated, for about ten days, till Prince Pamphilio's Pallace, in the Piazza Navona, could be put in order, for his Excellence's service.

His Excellence was no sooner thus ar∣riv'd, but the Grandees began their Complements of Congratulation, by their Secretaries, which lasted for three days, and then my Lord return'd them in like manner, his thanks; it not being the Custom of Rome, for Persons of that Rank, to re∣ceive, or give Personal Visits, except privately and underhand, till they have publickly waited on His Holiness.

About the Wednesday after, his Excellence (being now a little reposed) sent to the Pope for a private Audience, which was granted him, the following week; and then taking four of his own ordinary Coaches, and some few Domesticks, he was in the evening conducted by Cardinal Howard

to the Vatican Palace, and so by the back-stairs to His Holiness; who (as it may be easily sup∣pos'd) receiv'd him with particular satisfaction, and to the great Joy also of all the People, who in no small numbers got together; tho' usually such Audiences are perform'd without any noise or stir: And when his Excellence was return'd home, he found the Pope's Master of the houshold, with several of his under-officers there attending, who had brought the presents of welcome, viz. All sorts of Fowl, Wines, Sweet-meats, and other De∣licacies of that nature.

These preliminaries being now settled, and past, his Excellence fell upon the most troublesome part of his Embassy; I mean, his Equipage, and preparations for his publick En∣try: Troublesome I may call it, since Embassadors in this Court, have exceeded in splendor and magnificence, all the world besides; and whether his Lordship kept not up the Port and Dignity of his great Master, the Reader is to judge by what follows.

This Equipage (besides what was alrea∣ready prepar'd) consisted in stupendous Coaches, most rich Liveries, and store of Horses, of great value; and because the Brocard, Imbroidery, gold Lace, Fringe, Scarlet, &c. were all to be be∣spoken, 'twas easily foreseen, that the said Entry could not be at soonest, before Michaelmas; In the mean time, tho' the Embassador could not visit, and be visited, with the same Pomp, as when pub∣lick, yet his ordinary Expence was the same; for he weekly attended the Pope, had the same nu∣merous Family, and Retinue, kept the same Table for his Friends and Acquaintance, and had about forty Horses, still in his Stable.

Artizans in all places have the same methods, and perform their promises alike; for how pressing soever his Excellency's Officers were, they could not yet be ready, till the end of Octo∣ber; and just when every thing was thought fi∣nisht, the Pope fell so ill of the Gout, and his usual Defluxions, that two months past, without

his giving Audience to any stranger, no, not to the Duke of Modena himself, who arriving at Rome, in November, could not receive his Benediction, till the beginning of the following January; du∣ring which time, his Excellence had the great Ho∣nour and satisfaction, of often seeing a Prince, so every way accomplish't, and one too, that was infinitely kind, and obliging to him.

His Holiness being now recover'd, and the eighth of January appointed for this great Solemnity, it will not be perchance ungrateful to the Reader (since the Preparations and Pomp of it consisted in the Pope's, and King's Arms, in the Coaches, Liveries and Attendance) if before I further proceed, I describe first in words the Particulars, and then shew the Draught, and Pictures of them.

The Wood-work on which the respective Arms were painted, and placed, were 24 foot high, and 16 broad; the edges of it being carv'd, or cut out, according to the Parts of the Figures that

reach'd thitherward; The Boards were not only brac't, and kept together, with several great Beams, but had above 800 weight of Iron about them, so that being lifted up with great labour and pains, to the first story, they had the breadth of the Palace-Gate between them; and beneath, just over the Gate, stood the Arms of his Excel∣lence in a Round, about two yards diameter, and encompass'd with great Branches of carv'd Palms, painted proper.

The Arms of His Holiness were as followeth.

They were painted by a diligent hand, not in black and white, but in their proper Co∣lours, those places only excepted, which were covered, and shadowed with Gold; not transgres∣sing however, the order of the design; and plac't on an elevated piece of Architecture, on each side whereof, stood an Angel supporting the gilded compartment, with interwoven Palms, and Lawrels, the top of which was crown'd, with A Triple Crown, the Pontificial Keys, and Cordons.

Under the Arms, as in a large Plain, ter∣minating in a Pedestal, were divers Figures, double the life; the first of which, represented the Church, in a grave majestick female Figure, cloathed in white, girt about her; A transparent Veil, and a Glory round her Head; her feet naked, with Sandals; her upper Garment, a rich Mantle, embroider'd with Gold; in her right hand (leaningupon an Antique Altar, in which, in Basso Rilievo, was exprest, the Manna of old, fal∣ling upon the Children of Israel) she held a Pa∣triarchal Staff, and extended the other, to re∣ceive Britannia.

Upon the Altar, lay the Sacred Scrip∣ture, on a Cushion of Crimson Velvet; and beside it, the figure of a Church, by which stood, a ve∣nerable, aged personage, with a flaming Lamp, in his hand erected, representing piety; And un∣der the Churches feet, A Mufti, in a posture of rage, and despair; the Alcoran in his hand, ruf∣fled, and torn; and by him, a vanquisht Bassa,

his Ensigns, of Bows, Arrows, Scimiters, Horse∣tail, &c. all reverst.

Britannia, was a female figure, A mural (or embattled) Crown, on her head, and A (Ci∣vick Garland, or) Wreath of Oak-leaves, about her temples; cloathed in a Royal Robe, lin'd with Ermins; her Scepter, and Globe, on which, was Britannia, in Capital Letters, lying on a pur∣ple Cushion by her; her self on the left knee, making an obeysance to the Church, and was attended, by prudence, and valour.

Prudence, another female figure, had her head, and breast, adorn'd with Pearl, and in her Left hand, a staff, with a Serpent twin'd about it.

Valour, was represented by Hercules, in a Lyon's Skin; his Club, on his Shoulder, and trampling on envy, who with her Snakes about her, and one twisted on her right arm, lay raving at Britannia.

Underneath that, an Oval of Gold, sup∣ported

by two Sphinxes, and adorn'd with Law∣rels, wherein was represented the River Tyber, by an old man, lying at length, and leaning on an Urne, or Vase of water; A Wreath of Reeds on his head; in his left hand, an Oare, in his right, A Cornucopia: On his right side, lay a Wolf, suck∣ling two Children (the Symbole of Rome) on his left, A perspective of the Bridge of St. Angelo; and under all, in Golden Capital Letters, the word, Tybris. As may be seen in the first printed Figure.

[illustration]

〈◊〉〈◊〉 Michael Camers Pingebat. Arnoldus V. Westerhout fiā. sc.

The Kings Arms.

THey, with the Garter, Supporters, &c. were rais'd, on another kind of Architecture, adorned, with Roses, and Thistles

Under them, was Britannia, crown'd, and Wreath'd, as before; but here, sitting, in a full Majesty: In her right hand, A Scepter, and A Globe (inscrib'd Britannia) in the other; Her Vest, of a Gold Colour richly embroider'd at the bottom; Her Mantle, as before; Sandals on her feet, with Ligaments, to the mid-leg, after the old Roman manner; and trampling an armed Fi∣gure, that lay facing Her, and strugling to get up against Her: In his right hand, was a drawn Sword, and on his Helmet, a plume of Orange-tauny Feathers; The first Colours at Edge-hill, against King Charles the First.

On her left hand, in the middle, stood Hercules, drest as before, but now, leaning on his Club, and in his left hand, an Azure Tablet, with the Royal Motto (DIEU ET MON DROIT)

in large Capitals of Gold, on it; His left foot, stood firm on the Base, and his right, de∣press'd a groveling Figure, holding in the one hand, a Protestant-Flail, and in the other, a Scroul, with the word Rebellio, in like Letters of Gold.

On the other side of Hercules, was the Figure of St. George (the tutelar Saint of England) A rich Helmet, and plume of red Feathers, on his head; His Mantle, and Cross on his Breast, of the same Colour; A Sword by his side; The rest of his habit, after the old Roman: He stood, trampling an Hydra, which, instead of Serpentine, had humane heads; her Wings display'd, as en∣deavouring to get up again, whilst he, fastens his Lance in one of them, more remarkable than the rest.

Under that, in a like Oval of Gold, supported, and adorned, as the former, was re∣presented the River Thames, by the Figure of an old man extended, with a like Wreath on his

head, leaning also, on a Vase of water; on his left arm, an Oare; and on his right, A Cornuco∣pia, with many Ships, and Boats, in perspective: And beneath all, in like Letters of Gold, the word, Tamesis; as in the Second Figure.

I Have done with the front, and now 'tis fit, that I enter the Palace, which was great in it's self, and great in his Excellences Family, con∣sisting of above an 100 Persons, 60 of which were in Livery; and those for the Pages (being eight in number) of Crimson Velvet, their Cloaks, Lac't above half a yard deep, with broad Gold Lace, with little intermixtures of blew, white, and black Silk; They were also lined with a rich Brocard, the ground blew, with flowers of Gold; and their habit underneath, of the Roman Fashi∣on; to wit, Dublets and Trunks, Lac't as before, and trimm'd very thick with Gold and blew Rib∣bon: They had all black Castors Lac't, white Feathers; Bands, and Cuffs, of fine Genoa Point; embroider'd Gloves, silk marble-coloured Stock∣ings, and gilt Swords.

The other 52 Liveries, were of fine Scarlet lin'd with silk Brocard, suitable in Co∣lour, and Flower, to that of the Pages; 30 of these wore Cloaks, with the same Gold and blew

Lace, six rows deep: The others, being running Foot-men, and Grooms, had Coats, and Bree∣ches laid over, with the same Lace: And blew silk Stockings, black Hats, edg'd with a broad Gold-galoon, and gilt Swords.

Besides these, and four Valets de Cham∣bre, (with under officers, of all sorts) his Ex∣cellence had Fifteen Gentlemen of Fashion, who waited in his Lordships Ante-chamber, to attend in giving, and receiving Visits; nor were these of mean condition; there being among them, of the Ursini, Spinola, and Bentiveglio Families; so that 'tis no wonder that the very wages his Lordship paid, reckoning the board wages of the Italian Servants (for they eat usually at their own hou∣ses) came to near 2500 pound per annum.

The Palace it self, considering it's Sci∣tuation, Grandeur, Painting, &c. is reputed the best in Rome, and was by that Prince (a lover of the English Nation) as well furnisht, with Da∣mask, Velvet, and Embroidery, as Cost, or Art,

could contrive it; besides, there was a private, well-adorn'd Chappel, and two English Chaplains to officiate and look after it.

In the Stable, his Excellence had five compleat setts, of Coach-horses (to wit) four, for the Town, and a lighter sett, for the Campaign, besides several pairs, for ordinary uses, with saddle-horses, and others for baggage and the like; so that there wanted nothing now, to make a full equipage, but suitable Coaches; and of those, there were thirteen in number.

The first Coach.

The design of this, was altogether poe∣tical, and alluding to the Sea; and therein, be∣sides the exquisite carv'd Wooden-work, and en∣graven Iron-work, not only the figures hereafter mentioned, but the very Wheels, Pearch, and even the meanest part of the whole (as the Pole, Swivel∣tree, Spring, Tree Transum, &c. which were carv'd with Oak-leaves, Acorns, and Ivy-leaves) were all, richly gilded.

The spokes of the Wheels, were carv'd into large spreading Foliages, each spoke, being cut out of the main timber, six Inches thick, and nine broad; and the rings, or out-circles of the Wheels, as also the Nails, were carv'd with Oak-leaves, and Scollop-shells.

Instead of the Fore, and Hind-standards, the body of the Coach, was supported, by four Tritons, as big as the life, exactly carv'd, and gilded; having on their heads, wreaths of Sea-weeds, and so loaden with Festons, of Roses, Thistles, Lillies, and Acorns of Gold; that they seem'd to bend under the Coach, as confessing the immense weight.

Under the fore-part of this Machin, issu'd two large Dolphins, their Tails inter-woven upon the Pearch, and all the spaces adorn'd, with heaps of Conche-marine, Scollop-shells, and other things, proper to the Sea.

The Foot-board, represented a triple Scollop-shell, carv'd one within another; under

which, a little winged Genius stretcht out its self, and looking back in the Coach-man's face, seem'd to point with his arm, which way he was to drive.

On the shoulders of the right hand Triton behind, lean'd a large figure, representing Britannia, crown'd with Oak-leaves, and Turrets, and a loose Garment, flying about her.

On the others, lean'd a majestick figure, of the same bigness representing Neptune, with a spiked Crown, on his head, his hair, and beard ruffled, and a like flying Garment about him: Britannia and He, extend each an Arm, and so bore up The Imperial Crown of England.

Under the Tritons, on the right, and left, lay a Marine-Lion, and Unicorn, in propor∣tion to the other figures; their fore-feet, finny, and resting on large Foliages, their Tails twisted in the intermediate spaces, where also, were two Genii; the one, curbing the Lion, the other, the Unicorn, with a kind of flying Bridles, of gilded metal, like Ribbon; and he that was next Neptune,

held His Trident: In the rest of the spaces, were heaps of Scollop-shells, &c. alluding to the Sea; so that besides the excellency of the Design, and Workmanship, the whole carriage appear'd, as one mighty mass, of entire Gold.

And now for the Coach its self, the outside, or Leather part thereof, was all cover'd with Crimson Velvet (which, with what went to the Harness, Coachman's Cushion, Braces, Strapps, &c. took up 120 yards) And over the sides, or extream parts of the Velvet, was a rich Gold Embroidery, of rais'd-work, and on the Curtains before, behind, and on each side (ac∣cording to the Italian fashion) were large em∣broidered Loops, a foot long, and eight Inches broad; and all other the void spaces, as the Doors, Pannels, &c. were fill'd with flourishes, of the like embroidery, and all the seams, and edges of the said outside, and corners, were ei∣ther gold Galoon, or Fringe, of the same.

The four Vases, or Knobbs, at the

[illustration]

Ciro ferri Rom^o. inu:

And^a. Corⁱ. fecit

Gio: Batta. Lenardi delin:

Arnoldo Van Westerhout fiam^o. scul••

[illustration]

Ciro ferri Rom^o. inu: And^a. Corⁱ. fecit Gio. Batt̄a Lenardi delin: Arnoldo Van Westerhout: fiam^o. Scu

corners of the Coach, were three foot high above the roof, which falling back again on it, in large Foliages of gold needle-work, and spreading along the outside of the Valence, in a freeze∣work of six Inches high, met and joyn'd in the middle, by a large Scollop-shell of the same work. As may be seen in the third, fourth, and fifth Figures.

THE inside of the Coach, was lin'd through, with a rich Brocard of Gold, and all the Curtains before, behind, and on each side, as also the Cushions, were of the same, and took up, above an hundred yards.

The Cushions, and middle Seat, were edg'd with a deep, Gold-fringe, and the Curtains, proportionably: Round the Valence, was a much deeper and richer Gold gimp-fringe, and round the Cornish (where the Valence joyn'd with the Roof) was a rais'd Embroidery, about a foot in breadth, with large Branches that shot forth, at the corners, and sides; which Valence also, was lin'd with Cloth of Gold.

In the middle of the Roof, was his Excel∣lence's Coat of Arms, with Supporters, Mantling, Coronet, &c. all of emboss'd Needle-work of Gold, or according to their proper colours; and these were in length, five feet, and in breadth, three, or better.

There were also, several Tassels, of Gold,

to tye back the Curtains; and all the main Har∣ness, as well as the Braces, Strapps, and lesser parts, were not only covered with the same Crimson Velvet, but edg'd every where, with a thick Gold Galoon; and embroidered also, on all the meet∣ings, and remarkable places, with Roses, of the same work.

The cheeks of the Bitts, were double∣gilt, and the Bosses embroidered, with a rais'd∣work, upon cloth of Gold, in the figure of Roses; All the Padds were also covered with Embroide∣ry, and the Buckles (an 140 in number) laid on with the same.

The Postilion's Saddle, was of the same embroider'd Velvet, richly laid; and the very Stirrups, were cover'd, and edg'd as the Harness; and on each Horse's head, hung nine Tassels of Gold, to compleat the Grandeur.

The Second Coach.

That, was little less than the first; the outside also being covered with Velvet, but the

colour, blew; The Harness, Braces, &c. cover'd, and edg'd, as the first; The Embroidery, Buckles, Knobbs, &c. little differing, in richness, but de∣sign: For the Knobbs, were not so diffuse, and spreading; and the doors, and void places, had His Majestys Cypher, crowned, and surrounded with Palms, nothing inferiour in contrivance, to the first.

The inside, was of a rich Brocard, of blew, and Gold; Fring'd, Lac't, and Lin'd, as the first; and on the roof, his Excellences Arms, after the same manner, tho' not so large: The Carriage, Wheels, &c. carv'd and gilt, but in∣termingled, here and there, with blew; and the fore, and hind-parts, variously beautifi'd, with Festons of Roses, Thistles, Floures de Lis, A∣corns, &c.

The Figures of the whole, were seven, all richly Gilt; on the top of the fore-standards near the Coachman, two naked Boys; He on the right, bearing in his hand a Golden Tre-foil,

and his fellow, a Palm; and in their other hands, each held a Gilt Shield; on the first of which was his Excellences Paternal Coat, and on the second, his Crest, handsomly adorn'd, and pain∣ted.

On the Corners of the hind-standards (being the most conspicuous part of the Coach) sate two other Boys; and two more, below; The first, holding in his right hand a Rose, and rest∣ing the other, on the Escutcheon of England; The second, A Thistle, and the Escutcheon of Scot∣land; The third, A Floure de Lis, and the Escut∣cheon of France; The fourth, A Laurel, and the Escutcheon of Ireland, in the same manner as the first.

In the middle of these Figures, as it were under a Canopy of Foliages, and the same under her feet, sate A Majestique Female Figure, representing Britannia: In her right hand, half extended, she held a Rose, and a Thistle of Gold; in the other, a Lance; and on her knee, lean'd

[illustration]

[illustration]

Andrea Cornely inu: et fecit Gio: Batt̄a Lenardi delin: Arnoldo Van Westerhout fiam^o. Sculp:

a large Shield, charg'd with the Crosses of Uni∣on; and lastly, over the top of the said Stand∣ards and Foliages, were fixt four Crowns, most exquisitely Carv'd, and Gilt; that of England, be∣ing mounted much above the rest; as in the sixth, seventh, and eighth Figures.

[illustration]

Andrea Cornely inb: et fecit Gio: Batt̄a. Lenardi delin: Arnoldo Van Westerhout fiam^o. Sculp:

The Third Coach.

THis also, differ'd little in richness, or large∣ness, from the two former, tho' in the ma∣terials, it did; for instead of Velvet, and Em∣broidery, on the out-side, it was cover'd with Leather, edg'd with Gold, and Silk Lace, and Gilt massy Brass-work, so richly, and curiously wrought, that the two frames, that held the glasses, before and behind, cost 300 Roman Crowns, which is little less, than an 100 pound English.

The inside, was Crimson Velvet, Em∣broidered round, about half a foot deep, with Flowers of Gold, at the joyning of the Cieling, and Valence, and at the bottom thereof, hung a rich Fringe, of Gold and Silk; The Curtains were of Damask, Embroidered, with large Loops of Gold, and edg'd with a Fringe, suitable to the Valence, as were also the Cushions, and o∣ther usual parts of a Coach.

The Carriage, Wheels, &c. were carv'd

into great Foliages, and differ'd proportionably, from the two former, in that they were half, Gilt, and half, Black; and the Harness, Braces, &c. all edg'd, with Gold, and Silk Lace, and cover'd with Gilt Brass-work, suitable to the Coach its self.

The Fourth Coach.

This also, was of Leather, with Brass-work, lin'd with Crimson Velvet, seam'd, and beautifi'd, as the third; The Curtains also, were of Damask, edg'd as before; nor was there any Embroidery, except that, of his Excellence Cy∣pher on the Cieling, encompassed with Palms of Gold; nor the Carriage gilt, but only carved with Festons, and large Foliages.

This was his Excellences common Coach, when he went privately through the streets; as was the second, when his Lordship made publique Visits, to those of great quality; for, the first was never us'd, but at some Solemn Audience, extraordinary Function, or A first

Visit to the Cardinals, and Persons of the high∣est note; and then they were all drawn, by six Horses a piece.

The other Coaches.

His Excellences three next Coaches, were all alike, of Leather, adorn'd with Silk-Lace, and well-Gilt Brass-work, all Lin'd with Damask, Curtains of the same, and all things else suitable.

These, and three others, which were also lin'd with Velvet, or Damask, were for his Excellences Domesticks, and Attendance, when he went abroad; for his extraordinary Visits, were ever, with ten Coaches, and his other, with five, or six; nay, this was the usual number, even when his Lordship went Incognito; nor were these yet all his Coaches, for there were two, or three other little ones, for Messages, and common use.

The 8^th. of January being come, and The Pope (as I said) pretty well recover'd, in the morn∣ing about an hour after day-break, the foremen∣tioned

Arms of his Holiness, and his Majesty (which had been set up some days before) were uncover'd, with a Flourish of Trumpets, which drew a great concourse of people into the Piazza, every one admiring, both the design, and large∣ness of them: Between two or three in the after∣noon, the Chief Prelates, with the Pope's Officers (85 in all) came to attend his Excellence, who at the same time also, receiv'd the complements of the Cardinals, Princes, and Great men of Rome, by their Relations, and Gentlemen, that brought their several Coaches to wait on him, to the Pope's Palace.

About four in the evening, his Excel∣lence set out, and (to shew his particular Respect to the Place) was himself, in the Roman Habit, viz. Cloak, Doublet, and Breeches; His Suit of a rich Brocard, the Ground Black, with great Branch't Flowers of Gold, and lac'd thick, with deep Black Flanders Lace, and a broad Gold-gimpt foot to it; His Trimming was of Gold and black-wrought

Ribbon, and his Band, of the best Venetian Point; And that all things might correspond, He had great store of Excellent Diamonds in his Hat, Wrists, Sword, Shoes, &c. and where ever else they could well appear.

There were with him ten Coaches, in his own Livery, such as has been before describ'd: In the first, was The Lord Embassador, with six Arch-Bishops, and on his left hand, Monsignior Barzolini, who had been Nuncio in France: Before this Coach, went 32 Footmen, 22 in Cloaks, and 10, in close-body'd Coats, and at the Boots, the Pages, all in Livery, as has been also, before mentioned: By them, the Dean, or Chief of the Foot-men, in black Velvet, the Gentlemen of the Horse following, on A manag'd Neopolitan, richly caparison'd; Then follow'd, his Excellences other nine Coaches, all fill'd with Prelates; and after them, their own, with those of the Cardinals, publick Ministers, &c. fill'd (as was said) with Gentlemen, that had been sent, to wait on the

Solemnity; the whole train, amounting to the number of three hundred and thirty Coaches.

The weather, was somewhat rainy, but that hindred not, even the Streets (as well as the Balconys, and Windows) from being crouded with people, all shouting and crying out, Viva il grand Re d' Ingelterra! Live the Great King of England! In a word, so general were the Acclamations, through the whole progress, that, That of Pliny, to Trajan, upon His entring Rome, might not improperly be apply'd, to this, of The Lord Embassador, Non aetas quemquam, non valetudo, non sexus retardavit, quo minus oculos insolito spectaculo impleret: Parvuli noscere, ostentare juvenes, mirari senes, Aegroti quoque, relicto medentium imperio, ad conspectum, quasi ad salutem properare. Nor Age, want of Health, or Sex, with-held any one, from feeding his Eyes, with the unwonted spectacle: Children, prattled what it was; young men, shouted; old men, stood in admiration! Nor would the sick, observe their Physicians, but

ran as fast to see't, as to meet their Health.

His Excellence being come to Monte-Cavallo (where the Pope then Resided) found the Soldiers drawn up before the Gate; so that en∣tring the Palace, He alighted at the foot of the great Stairs, and was received (the Lay-persons of Quality preceding, and the Prelates following) at the Portal of the Great Hall, just on the Top of the said Stairs, by Monsignior Mugiaschi the Chamberlain, who, with other Purpled Officers, conducted him to the Anticamera, and thence (after a little reposing) to the Bedchamber it self) for his Holiness's Indisposition, hinder'd him from going to the Sala Regia, where such great Embassies, are usually first receiv'd.

The Pope was clad in Red Silk, with a lac'd Linnen Rocket, and sate in a Crimson Vel∣vet Chair, not far from his Bed: And as soon as his Excellence had made his three Obeysances (the last, being down to the feet) he received his Benediction, and so seated himself just before

his Holiness, who after an hours discourse, dis∣miss'd him: From thence, he was brought to Cardinal Cibo's Apartment, where he stay'd about half an hour; and then taking Coach again, was reconducted, to his own Palace, by the Light of thirty, or forty White-Wax Flambeaux.

The next day, his Excellence with the same Equipage, visited Cardinal Ludovisio, Dean of the Sacred College, who (in Functions of this nature) represents the whole Body; and the day after, the Queen of Sweden; and then, the parti∣cular Cardinals, as they lay most convenient; But before this, his Excellence, to acknowledge the continual obligations, plac't on him by the great Prelates of Rome, invited them all (in ho∣nour of the King his Master) to a mighty Enter∣tainment, on the 14^th. of the Current Month, which was order'd as follows.

The Great, or outward Hall (which is one of the fairest and best proportion'd Rooms, that can be seen any where) was surrounded with

long Tables, cover'd with excellent Linnen, and fill'd, with wonderful quantities of Fruit, Sweet-meats, Parmegian Cheese, and other delicacies, belonging to the Desert, or last Course; For thus are the Italians wont at their Solemn Feasts, that by exposing to the Spectators, one part of the Entertainment, they may better judge, what the whole will be: About thirty Butlers, and As∣sistants attended here, and at the upper end of the said Hall, under a Canopy (after the mode of the Place) stood a magnificent Cupboard, of all kind of Plate, guarded by Swisse; and over against it, was that of Glasses, which were of Venice, in great store, and of all sorts; Three other large, and richly furnish'd Rooms were to be past, before ye came to the place where they din'd; and in the last of them (under another Canopy) was a great Cupboard of curious Gilt Plate, for his Excellence's particular use, and service, guarded by some of the English Servants; and was so extraordinary, that it drew as many

Spectators to it, as did any one thing else; Nor would they hardly believe it to be other, than of pure Gold, tho' they were told the contrary; and even those that were convinc'd, could not but confess, that Artificers in England were su∣perlative.

The Dining-Room, was that gay and pleasant Gallery, so remarkable also for its Painting, it being of Pietro di Cortona's doing, the greatest Master in his Time; Its usual furniture, was double Rows of Statues, in proportionable Niches; but now (by reason of the Time of the year) his Lordship order'd it to be hung with rare Tapestry; and in the middle of the side, op∣posite to the coming in, was plac'd a Cloth of State, Embroider'd with Gold, under which, was the King's Picture, as big as the Life, sitting Crown'd on his Throne, and clad, in his Regal Habit.

The Table was fitted to the length of the Room, and being cover'd with fine Damask,

was encompass'd, with about eighty fair arm'd Velvet Chairs, which touch'd one another; only between every four, there was place left for a Carver, and over against him, for a Sewer; So that each eight Persons, had these two Officers to attend them as to the Eating Part; and behind, every one had a Servant, to bring whatsoever he wanted, or desired.

The breadth of the said Table was eight foot (which might easily be allow'd, the Room being 24 wide) and thro' the middle of it, from one end to the other, ran a Range of Historical Figures (some almost half as big as the Life) which the Italians, call Trionfi: They are made of a kind of Sugar-Paste, but model∣led, to the utmost skill of a Statuary; So that they are afterwards, sent as Presents to the great∣est Ladies; and their use at Entertainments, is to gratifie the Eye, as the Meat, Musique, and Perfumes, do the other Senses.

Between these, stood great Vases of

Artificial Flowers; and (to fill up the emp∣ty spaces of the middle) there were a wonder∣ful Company of Birds in a flying posture, on lesser Plates; and as many Lyons, Unicorns, and Eagles, on larger, alluding to the supporters, and bearings, of both their Majesties: An entire description of which, as the Table stood all to∣gether, may be seen in the ninth Figure.

AND for a more particular account of the Triumphs themselves, they were as fol∣loweth.

The first four, were of Juno, Cybele, Nep∣tune, and Vulcan, in Chariots, drawn over large Foliages; thereby representing, the four Ele∣ments, as if each of them, had paid a Tribute to the Table; as in the eleventh and twelfth Fi∣gures.

[illustration]

THE fifth, and sixth, were of two Palm Trees, the Hieroglyphicks of Victory, and Impress, of his Excellences Family; and under them, several Nymphs, sitting on Foliages, and representing the Moral Virtues, as in the thir∣teenth Figure.

THE seventh and eighth, were the Figures of His Majesties Royal Virtues; where, up∣on heaps of Arms, and Trophies, in the first, stood Justice, and Peace, entwin'd; with their proper Symbols in their hands; in the other, Valour, and Victory, as in the Fourteenth Fi∣gure.

[illustration]

THE ninth and tenth, were of Daphne, and Myrrha, the one transform'd into a Lawrel; the other, into a Tree of her own Name, as in the fifteenth Figure. Intimating thereby, That His Majesty, whose Victories had planted Him Lawrels in His own time, wanted not the Myrrhe of His Virtues, to embalm Him to posterity.

[illustration]

Gio. Batta Lenardi delin. Arnoldo Van Westerho

AND in the midst of all, over against his Majesties Picture (of which, before) stood a Machine of six feet, and two inches high, re∣presenting on the one hand, the Figure of the Church; on the other, Time, drawing Truth out of a Cloud, thro' which, the Sun breaking forth, A winged Heroe, with a Spear in his hand, chas'd Fraud, and Discord: And on the Base, lay a dismember'd Hydra; thereby denoting, Rebellion supprest, and vanquish't: And over all, stood His Majesties Arms, as may be seen in the tenth Figure: And on the Reverse thereof, those of his Holiness, according to the first Figure.

THIS large Table, having (as is said) these adornments in the middle, had between them, and the Napkins (which were also most artificially folded) two Rows of Assiets, or In∣termesses, on either side, fill'd with all sorts of relishing bits, whether salt, sweet, or soure; as Pickles, Butter, slices of delicate Bacon, Bolog∣na-Sauciges, Taratufoli, Composts, &c. all which, stood in the abovesaid Order, for two whole days, (according to the Roman way) that every ones curiosity might have some share in the Entertainment: And truly, the Concourse was so infinite, that the Palace had bin certainly sack't the second day, had not his Excellence foreseen the danger, and therefore, provided a Company of Swissers, for all the Gates and Avenues.

As for the Feast it self (which began about one) it consisted of twenty four Imperial Dishes, to every Mess, or eight Persons; and these the Italians call Imperial, by reason of the large∣ness,

and richness of them; as fill'd, with what∣ever Art could devise, or Industry procure: Two, of each of the said twenty four, were served in at a time, and plac'd by the Servers, before the Respective Carvers, who cutting of every thing, gave it to the Servers, and they, to each Guest in their District, whether he eat of it, or not; And as the Trumpets, and loud Musique from the Balconies, usher'd in the Meat, so the softer (which consisted of Voices, Lutes, &c.) enter∣tain'd all, whilst they were eating.

Towards the middle of Dinner, his Ex∣cellence (who sate at the upper end of the Table) stood up, and (calling to his Cup-bearer for a Glass of Wine) began the Popes Health; and (within some small time after) the Kings, in the same manner, and order; which was present∣ly pledg'd with the utmost demonstrations of Joy, and Satisfaction.

And now, the Company (who had a∣bandon'd themselves to mirth) beginning to be

satisfied, the aforesaid twelve courses, or changes were by the Officers (to avoid tediousness) con∣tracted to ten; and then, the Triumphs, and other Ornaments, being taken away, they cover'd the whole Table, with all kind of Sweet-meats imaginable; which after a little time (as the Liberty or Confidence of the stan∣ders by encreast) were all snatch'd, and carried away.

Thus (after three hours) ended this Famous Entertainment, with universal satisfacti∣on, and applause: And tho' the Delicacy of the Meats, Wines, and other Liquors, as well as the Abundance (which fed above 1000 Persons) was wonderful, yet the Order, seem'd more sur∣prising; for every one not only eat, and sate at ease, but was all the while as well attended, and as readily served, as if he had been at a private Feast: Nay, all confest and declar'd, that the common Fate of Feasts, viz. Beuer Caldo e Mangiar Freddo, Drinking hot and Eating cold,

was here, wholly chang'd to the contrary.

And now the Month of January was over, when several Great Personages, and Aca∣demies in Rome, thought fit to Complement His Majesty, in shewing personal Honours to his Em∣bassador. The first, was the Queen of Sweden, who had prepar'd an elegant composition of Ita∣lian Lyricks, in Honour of His Majesties Accession to the Crown; which being now ready, and her Palace fitted for it, Her Majesty appointed it to be celebrated on the beginning of February, and therefore invited his Excellence, to be present at it.

It was perform'd in her great Audience Room, adorn'd with extraordinary Pictures, and Lights: At the upper end, under a cloth of State, was plac't a rais'd Chair for Her Majesty; and at the other, a large Theater, with rising Benches, for the Musick; on either side also were cover'd Benches, the one for the Roman La∣dies, the other, for their Husbands, or Relati∣ons:

And now the Lady being plac't, and every thing else in due order, The Lord Embassador led the Queen to her Throne, and sate himself, on a Velvet Stool, under the first step of it, with a Row of English Gentlemen, and other Cavaliers of Her Majesties Court, standing about him.

The composition, was sung in Dia∣logue, by five persons, representing, London, Thames, Fame, The Ruling Genius, and The Genius of Rebellion; with a Chorus of an hundred Voices, and an hundred and fifty musical In∣struments.

The subject was, The Encomiums of the English Nation, and their Great Monarch, James the Second; with the Augury also, and Assurance, of happy successes, under the Domi∣nion of so mighty a Prince: About the middle of which, and just before the first Chorus, there was a sudden stop; when Monsignior Francisco Albani, A Prelate (and now Secretary of the Pope's Briefs) stept into a Pulpit, there ready prepar'd,

and in A florid Italian Oration, first addressing to the Queen, continu'd the Argument, thro' a world of matter; but how to bring that world into a Compendium, or Map, will be a question.

In short, he trac'd His Majesty, from his infancy, to his riper years; and his early cou∣rage, to his full manhood: Follow'd him, through all his various fortunes, at home, and abroad: His exemplary Actions in France, and Flanders, where, to capacitate him for Admiral of the Ocean, Victory shook of her Pinnions, as resol∣ving, never to part from him: He further went on, That Fortune had provided new Darts, to wound his succession, yet they broke themselves, on what they were shot at; nay, all her tryals con∣fest his mastery, and instead of overthrowing, did but contribute, to the fastning his roots: Nor ought I (continued he) in the day of so much joy, to have mention'd it, but that it was not un∣pleasant to Hercules, to look back, on his past toils.

But now, in that the appearance of Day, had disperst the Clouds, All the Ideas, he could fancy to himself, towards the forming A Statue of publick Felicity, were conspicuous in His Majesty: Witness, his Justice, in governing by his Laws: His Goodness, in forgetting nothing, but Injuries: His Clemency, in being ever readier to pardon, than offenders to ask it: His Liberality, in the Patronage of Arts, and Arms: And lastly, his Prudence, in advancing the Trade of his Kingdoms; thereby supplying the defect of Time, and joyning divided Britain, once more to the Continent: And therefore, if such were his dawn, what must his full Day be? Or what would we the reward of all? Even that God give him the accomplishment, of the Pro∣mise to Abraham, and multiply his seed, as the Stars of Heaven.

Nor was it sooner spoken, than eccho'd back again, by a Chorus (as before) of an hun∣dred Voices, and an hundred and fifty Instru∣ments;

And from thence, the Dialogue went on, intermixt with three other Chorus's, crying out, New Laurels! New Palms! Victory, Victory, Victory! And at last, the whole, clos'd with this fourth.

Live King of an exalted Name! Live ever, in the top of years the same! And as He's Great in Britain, even, Let Him be Great in Rome, and Great in Heaven!

And with this, ended the Entertainment of that evening, but not the Queen's inclinations of honouring his Majesty, for it was for several days together, again presented, to the general satisfaction, of both Court, and City.

A Queen had led the way, and his Eminence Cardinal Pamphilio (in whose Brother's Palace, his Excellence then dwelt) A person of no ordinary literature, sharp witted, eloquent, and (which every Age has not to boast of) A Purpu∣rated Poet, made his Lordship the next invitation, to his Palace, in the Corso (a long Street in Rome where, during the Carnival, all people appear in

Masquerade) where, after a splendid Entertain∣ment, he was further caress'd, with an Excellent Tragedy, sung in Recitativo: The Subject, was A particular Complement to His Majesty, in the History of St. Dimna, an Irish Martyr; The Stage, beautifully set out with proper Scenes; and the Argument, interwoven with such variety of noble, yet surprizing Accidents, that it appear'd altoge∣ther worthy of the elevated Genius, of himself, that wrote it.

Nor stood it with the Grandeur of The Barberine Family, to slip this opportunity of show∣ing the world that real respect which their Good∣ness, and Gallantry, made them always declare was due to the Crown of England; For Cardinal Francisco Barberini (not long since Dean of the Sa∣cred College) was Unckle to Carlo, his present Eminence, and had been Protector of the Eng∣lish Nation at Rome; as had been heretofore (if I mistake not) Pope Urban the Eighth; famous for his humanity and good nature: This Family

also, was ally'd to the most Illustrious House of Este, and consequently, to Her now Majesty, our great and gracious Queen: Under this double obligation, was the said Lord Cardinal, when he invited his Excellence, and seven other English men of quality, to an Entertainment at his Palace, on the Shrove-Tuesday following, being the Eve of the Carnival, viz. The Earl of Salisbury, the honourable Henry Sidney, and Thomas Ratcliffe, with Mr. Arundell, Tichborn, Wamesley, and Eggleston: And that there might not be wanting persons of the highest Order in the Church, he invited, their Eminencys, The Cardinal of Norfolk (Pro∣tector, of the English, and Scotch) Cardinal Alteri (Protector of the Irish) Cardinal Pamphilio, before spoken of, and Monsignior Barberino, his Nephew, one of the twelve principal Of∣ficers of the Apostolick Chamber.

The day being now come (out of cu∣riosity and pleasure to view, the not to be parallel'd Statues, and Paintings, of that Palace) his Excel∣lence,

with his company, came early; when ha∣ving past the large Court, famous for the Sculp∣ture about it, he was led to a magnificent Stair∣case, which brought him into a more magnifi∣cent Hall, where the Cardinal receiv'd his Excel∣lence; and by the Antichambers, conducting him through the rest of the Palace, show'd him the inestimable Collections, which nothing but a like Family could have brought together; After this, he led the Embassador to his Library, infe∣rior (perhaps) in nothing to the Vatican, but the Manuscripts, and that it is not The Vatican. And here it was, that his Eminence, presented his Ex∣cellence, with forty Books, Folio's, and others, exquisitely bound, and Printed by the care and Beneficence of this Family; and here also the Cardinals who were invited, came to them.

The Hall before-mentioned, was the place of this Entertainment, where that scarcely to be exprest Cieling (the hand also of Pietro de

Cortona, was (if yet possible) out-done, by the costly Hangings; wherein (with all the Mastery of Art, Colours, and Design) were exprest, the most considerable actions of Pope Urban the Eighth; and upon a Freeze under them, The History of Deborah: And at the upper end of all, A full Picture of His Majesty, on a sprightly Horse, trampling, The many-headed Monster of Rebellion, under his feet.

The Hall its self, was set round, with Crimson-Velvet Chairs, edg'd with a deep Gol∣den Fringe, and in the middle, upon a small rising, stood a Table of thirty foot long, and se∣ven broad; through the length of which, ran a range of Triumphs, and beside them, other lesser, of Arts, Peace, War, Victory, with their respe∣ctive Symbols, and Trophys: Nor was the num∣ber of the Services, the vastness of the Dishes, the variety of the Inter-messes, and relishing Plates round every Trencher, the plenty, and choice of Wines, the nobleness of the Desart, excellence of

the Musick, and great Order of the whole, in any wise disproportionate, to the magnificence of the place, or the person, that made it: And if it fell short in any thing, of that of the Lord Embassa∣dor's, it was not, that his Eminence's intention, was not the same, but the company less.

The Entertainment lasted above two hours, and from the Hall, they withdrew into a curiously hung Room, which was a ready con∣veyance into all the other parts of the Palace; and from hence they came into A second, hung with Crimson Velvet, and beautifully adorn'd with Statues, and Pictures, of inestimable value; where, his Eminence had prepar'd, an excellent composition, of Vocal, and Instrumental Musick, in honour of His Majesty, and this glorious Em∣bassy.

From thence, his Excellence, and their Eminences in Cardinal Barberini's Coach (the rest of the Coaches following) drove thro' the Corso (of which, before) And thence, to the Palace of

Cardinal Pamphilio, where his Excellence receiv'd a second Regal, and the satisfactory Entertain∣ment, of the Tragedy before mention'd.

This of the Lords Cardinals, begot an Emulation in The Literati, nor was it long, ere they follow'd the example: The first of this kind, were the Fathers of the Gregorian, or Roman Col∣lege (founded by Pope Gregory the 13^th.) who in∣vited his Excellence, to an Entertainment of the Muses, on the 25^th. of the same month; At which time, he came largely attended, with Roman Pre∣lates, and other great men; and was receiv'd at the Gate, not only by the Rector, but by the Assistants, and chief members of that Learned Body; for, as for the General himself, he was lately dead, and the Vicar sick, even to keep his Bed. At his entrance they exprest their satisfa∣ction and joy, by ringing their Bell, and a flourish of Trumpets: Then having with much ado past the throng'd Court, and view'd the Inscription, erected (in honour of His Majesty, and that days

Solemnity) over the Portico, that leads into the first Hall, his Lordship was at the great Door of it, met by the Prefect of the Studys, who in a short, but elegant Latine Oration, accosted him, to this effect.

That amidst the noise of the world ap∣plauding, and rejoycing at his Excellence's Ar∣rival at Rome, The Gregorian Academy, neither ought to be silent, nor indeed, could it: In their name therefore, he first rejoyc't with His Holi∣ness, in that it happen'd in his Pontificat, and that James the Second, reign'd in England, and Innocent the XI^th. in Rome. In the next place, he gratulated, To The Christian World, so Great A Defender of the Faith: To Britain, Queen of the Ocean, so potent an Assertor: And lastly, To his Excellence, his Embassy; And stil'd His Ma∣jesty, The most Great King of Great Britain, in that he had chosen, such an Embassador; the one, only fit to chuse the other, to be chosen.

And now his Excellence had a full Pro∣spect

of the Hall it self, the further end of which, was one entire piece of Architecture, in Perspe∣ctive; where, under a Regal Canopy, upon A Throne, rais'd four Steps, and a round Pedestal of equal height, between two erected Female Figures, viz. Scotland admiring, and Ireland re∣joycing, sate a Third, on a Lion couchant, re∣presenting England: On her head she bore a Mu∣ral Crown; in her right hand, A Scepter; and her left, held the Helm of a Ship: Upon the Cornishes over that, supported by large Pillars, were Their Majestys Pictures (as done in Brass) wreath'd about, with Laurels, and Palms, each also supported, by two Angels: And somewhat over that, in the middle between both, His Ma∣jestys Arms, with their wonted Quarterings, Gar∣ter, and Supporters, standing on Festons of Ro∣ses, and Thistles: And on a proportionable Ar∣chitrave to the whole, four large Urnes, or Pots of Incense.

The Walls on either side, were hung

with Arras, of Silk; and upon a Cornish over them, several Shields, and Tablets, of Devises, Epigrams, and Elogies, in honour of His Majesty, and that days occasion: Among the number of which, it may not be unpleasant, to divert the Reader, with some of them.

A Ship, her Sails furl'd, and lying close, against the weather. The word (—Ubi noxia per∣stant) While dangers are abroad. Signifying thereby, A Tempest may shake, not rend a wise man's Sails: And therein also, His Majestys prudence, in giving way to the Storm, which so much threaten'd him, before he came to the Crown.

A Leopard regardant, i. e. looking back on his spots. The word (Ornant, non maculant—) They beautifie, not blemish. Intimating thereby, That all the obloquies against His Majesty, when Duke of York, are so far from giving him any Blot, that they rather add, so many Flowers to his Crown.

A Cannon, firing. The word (—Men∣sura dat ictum) 'Tis the true Levil hits. Thereby de∣noting,

That those true measures, His Majesty took of his Affairs, gave Him, and his Kingdoms, the happiness, they now enjoy.

A Shield, with an Umbo, or spike of Steel, in the Centre. The word (Ferendo, & fe∣riendo) By bearing, and pushing. Thereby shewing, His Majestys readiness to receive, and repel, the force of his Enemies.

A Horse, ready appointed for War, beating the ground, and (as it were) neighing for the Battle. The word (—Animoque paratior—) More ready in himself. Intimating thereby, his in∣vincible Resolution.

A Marriners Compass, the Needle to the North. The word (Quo semel, huc semper—) Once, and ever. Thereby denoting, His Majestys constancy.

A Lion, tossing a large Orbicular Fi∣gure. The word (—Et tanto in pondere ludit) And under the great weight, He plays. Alluding thereby, to His Majestys expeditiousness, and happy dex∣terity,

in the easy dispatch, of so many his weighty Affairs.

The Sun, throwing his Beams over a Landskip. The word (—Circumspicit omnia—) He has an eye, on all. Thereby intimating, That no part of his Dominions is so remote, but that he bears, a particular regard to it.

A Harp, full strung. The word (Summis consentit & imis) And every string accords. Denoting thereby, That (notwithstanding their diversity in Opinions) all His Majestys Subjects, meet in one Consort, i. e. a general satisfaction, and de∣light, under his happy Government.

Lastly (for I intend not a Volume) A Bee, flying round a Garden, of Herbs and Flowers. The word (Non legit infectos—) She takes no poisonous Plant. Pointing thereby at His Majestys Judgment, that he makes choice, of the Best men.

Besides these, there were several other Odes, Epigrams, and Elogys, on larger Tablets, in honour of His Majesty, his Late Royal Bro∣ther,

and the particular accidents of his now Majesties life; One among the rest, more imme∣diately relating to The Embassy, in which (al∣luding to his Excellence the Lord Embassadors Name, of Palmer) under the Emblem of A Palm, or Date Tree, was represented, That it is the Nature of that Tree, not to yield to any weight, but rather, to endeavour the more upwards: In short, they gratulate The Omen; foretel Him, Victory over his Enemies, of which also, that Tree is the Symbol, And wish him, A Prince, of many Palms.

From thence in the passage to the Grea∣ter Hall, by the Humanity Schools of Grammar, Syntax, Poetry, Rhetorick, &c. Several Prince∣ly youths, (chief of the Caesarean, Matthean, Im∣perial, Pamphilian, and Altierian Families) stood before the doors of their respective Schools, and saluted his Excellence with Distichs; and from thence, by a fair ascent, he came up to the Hall its self, which was statelily furnish't, with Da∣mask,

and Tapestry hangings, heightned with Gold.

Towards the end of it, was erected A Theatre, on which stood the Rhetorick Master, who complemented his Excellence in a Latine Heroick Poem of 571 Verses, the Sum and Ar∣gument of which, was this.

He took his rise, from the year, or two, before His Majesties accession to the Crown, And thus fabled; That the Genius of England, having (by reason of the late villanous Plot) found every thing, in disorder at home, had tra∣vell'd all the Provinces of Europe, and finding them successful in their Affairs, began to con∣sult, whether Fortune (whereby yet, he meant no other, than that Divine Providence, which is always awake for the good of Mankind) had not forsaken his Countrey, and being half doubtful in it, resolv'd to go in quest of her: To which purpose, having advice, that she had betaken her self, to the Imperial Eagle, he follow'd her

from place, to place, and at last found her, at the first unsuccessful Siege of Buda: where, ha∣ving laid before her, the close Argument, of not pressing Fortune, against Fortune; He encou∣rages her with the certainty of the next Cam∣paign, and only begs her, that during that va∣cancy, she would take a Journey into England, which wanted nothing, but her presence, to com∣pose it.

In short, the Genius prevails, takes For∣tune into his Chariot, and (after a full-wrought Poetical description of the Journey) brings her into England; where the first thing they met with, was the death, of King Charles the Second; and two Rebellions, then rising, against his Brother and Heir, His now Majesty: This Fortune (that ever hated the profane rabble) cover'd the Kings Arms, disperst the Rebels, and having seated him, in the Imperial Throne, return'd back to the Eagle, for its next more successful expedition against Buda. And with this, ended the Solem∣nity,

which was all perform'd, in the Latine tongue.

The next, was that of The Clementine Colledge, founded by Pope Clement the VIII^th.; which, albeit it be governed by religious per∣sons, has in it yet, an Academy of The Literati, and (besides their more serious studys) The young Nobless, and Gallants, are train'd up, in all those Exercises, that may render them useful, either for Peace, or War: Hither also his Excel∣lence was invited; and came fully accompany'd with Prelates, Cavaliers, and others; nor was the Entertainment less learned, tho' for the most part, the Composition was in the Vulgar Tongue; for the Italian wits, by critically considering it in their Academies, have at length render'd it, both Polite, and Elegant.

His Excellence was receiv'd at the first Gate, by the Fathers, and young Noblemen Convictors, with A double range of Trumpets; and thence, conducted into the Great Hall, rich∣ly

adorn'd with Paintings, and Damask, fring'd with Gold; Where he was seated on A Velvet Chair rais'd, and beside him, hung A full Pic∣ture of His Majesty, under a Royal Canopy; over which, stood the Impress of The Academicks (by the name of The Extravagants) viz. two Palms, folded into the Figure of a Warlike Hand-bow. The word (placidis, coeant immitia) Let Arts, and Arms, join hands. Thereby signifying, That Gowns, and Swords, are not so incompatible, but they may very well meet, in the same persons.

The Entertainment began, with a pre∣lude of Musick, Then stood out, A Noble Youth (A Marchese) of about seventeen years (who also bore a part, in the following Exercises, of Vaulting, Dancing, Fencing, and Horsman∣ship) and caress'd His Excellence, in a smart Oration, to this purpose,

That the old Historys of Rome, must give place, to modern Annals; In as much as the Glorys of the first, were more believ'd, than

true, these on the contrary, carry'd in them, more of truth, than credibility.

That the multitude of people, made Rome, look bigger, than her self, and Rome now, might be found, in Rome again.

That Glory, lay not in quantity, but quality, and that the brave men, not the number, made A Monarchy great, and Illustrious; For otherwise, Vices, and Privation (that in despight of Noble Enterprises, had destroy'd Confines) might set up for Soveraignty, among the Ver∣tues.

That the Trophys of The August Eagle, surpass'd not yet, those of The winged Lion; And tho' Antiquity, might pride its self, in her Alexan∣der, Caesars, &c. yet the real Grandeur of all, was, to be found in James the Second, and what was prodigious in them, render'd not only probable, but certain in him.

Then making an Excursion, on the Praises of The Pope; The Emperors Victorys

over the Turk; The Queen of Sweden, Patroness of their Academy; The Lord Embassador, and his Embassy, he thus, came back to His Majesty: Let James the Second live! to the Terror of Evil doers, and the Example of Heroe's: Live The Glo∣ry of Britain, and Glory of the Capitol! And with him, encrease The Triumphs of Hungary con∣quer'd, and Greece, wounded.

Lastly, in the name of the Academicks, he besought his Excellence, to accept that Ad∣dress, so much the more affectionate, by how much the less artificial; And to temper their boldness, That he would yet content himself, to repeat with them, what Varius Geminus, once said to his Caesar; Qui de te Jacob audent dicere, magni∣tudinem tuam ignorant, qui non audent, Humanitatem. They that presume to give an account of Thee, James, understand not Thy Greatness, and they that dare not offer at it, know nothing of Thy Clemency.

This ended with a Chorus of Musick;

And then, were rehearst several short Epigrams (of half a dozen, or a dozen Verses) Stanza wise, by the like Noble Youths, in honour of The Pope; The King; The Queen; The Queen of Sweden; The late Dutchess of Modena; The now Duke; The Lord Embassador; And Cardinal Azzolino, Protector of the Academy; Which also was answered by a Chorus of Musick.

Then follow'd the exercise of Vaulting, on the Horse, perform'd by six Noble Youths, with singular dexterity, and variety; and after some respite of Musick, those other, of Dancing, and Fencing, by the same, or like Youths.

The first, was an high Dance, by one single person; And after that, A Duel of two. The second Dance also, was single; and after that, a Duel of two.

The third Dance, was a French Minuet, of two. And after that, a skirmish of three; One, defending himself, against two.

The fourth Dance, was in a figure of

six; And after that, a Duel of two.

The fifth Dance, was in a figure of four; And after that, a skirmish of three: One, with a Sword and Dagger, defending himself, against two Swords.

The sixth Dance, was a Saraband of six; And after that, a skirmish of eight; four, against four; with a flourish of Trumpets.

The seventh Dance, a figure of eight. The eighth Dance, was a French Minuet of two; And after that, a skirmish of eight; and clos'd those exercises, with a Chorus of Trumpets.

And now, while the Academicks were preparing themselves for their riding the great Horse, His Excellence was entertain'd with A Symphony of Musick; and that over, conducted into A Gallery, which lookt into the riding Court, from whence, he beheld all the Exercises of Horsmanship, perform'd by eight Noble Youths of The Academy; which ending, his Excellence was reconducted to his Palace.

Nor was it long, ere a like festivous in∣vitation, was made him, by The Academicks of the Infecondi, for the 21 of April following; where, accompany'd with a numerous train of Prelats, and others, he was as splendidly receiv'd, and entertain'd, with even the height, of Rhetorick and Poetry, in honour of His Majesty, Himself, and The Embassy; more particularly, with a problematical discourse, (in Italian) whether The Victorious Arms of the Christians in Hun∣gary, and Greece, or The Generous Indulgence, of the King of Great Brittain (uniting thereby, his Subjects) were more conducing to the peace of Christendom?

And now his Excellence (having re∣ceiv'd Orders) prepar'd for his Return; and therefore (to begin where he ought) he ac∣quainted the Pope, that (with his permission) the next Audience, should be that of Congee; So that on the fifth of May he came in great state to the Palace, and after an hour's Private Discourse

or thereabouts, he receiv'd the Embraces, and Benediction of His Holiness, with the usual Pre∣sent, of a Pair of Beads, at which hung a Gold Medal of our Saviour.

This Ceremony being thus over, His Ex∣cellence was to take his leave of the Queen of Sweden, and after her, of every Cardinal; all which being in a fortnight's time perform'd, he chang'd his Livery, and (ordering his Dome∣sticks to make ready, with all possible hast for his Journey) he put himself wholly Incognito; that is to say, neither to give, nor receive Visits, unless about Business, and that, privately, and by the Back-stairs also: But an Accident inter∣rupted this so necessary a Retirement, to one that had so great a Family to dispose of, and so many Home-Affairs to settle, before he stirr'd. For the four new Cardinals (Ciceri, Petrucci, Ca∣raffa and Medici) who had been long mew'd up, were on the 24^th. Current to receive their Hats, in open Consistory; which being the only Pub∣lick

Papal Solemnity, since his Lordships Recep∣tion, it was thought fit (by the whole Court) that he should have a more particular Invitation, as he had, and which, he readily comply'd with.

About ten in the morning that day, his Excellence (attended by all his own People) came to the Palace, where he was Receiv'd by the Of∣ficers, and conducted to the Great Gallery, from whence he might see Cardinal de Medici's Caval∣cade, or Solemn Procession on Horse-back; for in this manner was every Cardinal formerly wont, to come to his First Audience, accompany'd by the Sacred Colledge, and Prelates, on Mules, the other Grandees, and followers, on Horses: But the Charge being excessive, none had for several years perform'd it, nor could it be more pro∣perly reviv'd, by any one, than a Prince of so much Wealth, and Greatness.

The other three Cardinals having been excus'd Riding, came privately before, and by noon, the rest; and then, his Excellence went

to the Pope's Inward Antichamber, where he found the Conestable Colonna attending; for he, and the Duke de Bracciano, are the only Romans, that are Principi del Soglio; that is to say, Princes that can stand (on great Days) under the Canopy, or Cloth of State: His Lordship and he, having saluted each other, and discours'd for a while, the Pope came out, and after his Benediction (they, and some of the Bed-chamber preceding) he was brought to the Vestry; where being Pontifically Rob'd, and Mitred, by two Cardinal Deacons (to wit, Maldachini, and Pamfilio) his Excellence took up his Train, and so follow'd him to the Throne, in the Room where the Consistory was then held; standing close by him on his Right hand, and discoursing still with him, during the Casmes, and Intervals of the Function.

The Function it self consisted chiefly, in the Pope's Blessing the people; the Salutations he received from the Cardinals; and his Pray∣ers (at his giving the Hats) that God would

incline each of them, faithfully to serve his Di∣vine Majesty, in their respective Stations; and so (after two hour's) he return'd in the former order. After which, his Excellence took the op∣portunity of taking his second leave, of all his Friends, and (after many kind Adieu's) was conducted to his Coaches, which, together with his Liveries, never appear'd more magnificent, nor ever happen'd to be more descanted upon, than at this time: For being all intermingled, with the stately Equipage of Cardinal de Medici, The people had a fit opportunity to compare, and give their judgments of both, which was highly in favour of his Lordships.

Our Embassador being again retir'd, every Servant was at liberty to look after his par∣ticular business; and in three weeks, the Baggage was made up, and All Persons (as well Trades∣men, as Domesticks) paid off: And to obviate the mistakes; which Chance or Malice, might after his Departure occasion; He order'd (ten days

before he stirr'd) Printed Bills to be pasted up in the most Remarkable Quarters of the City, which gave notice of his intended Journey, and willed every one to repair to the Palace, that had any Dues, or Pretensions: But so far was this, from creating trouble, to his Excellence or Officers, that it gave the Town occasion to ad∣mire, and wonder, nay, confess it, a thing not only unusual, but scarce heard of before, in those parts; For thro' the whole course of this Embassy, no man (after the stating of his Accounts) ever ask't twice for his money; nor was any Bill (upon what place soever drawn) which was not punctu∣ally, and precisely satisfied.

And now his Excellence (having dis∣pos'd of his English Servants, and Baggage, some to return by Sea, others by Land) began his own Journey the 23. of June, by night, because the Heats were excessive; and by Post, for expedi∣tion-sake, according to his late Orders: Him∣self rid in a handsom, commodious Callesh,

made purposely for that service; and was at∣tended by his Secretary, his Sewer, a Page, a Valet de Chambre, and a Running Footman; and overtaken on the Road, by the Gentleman of his Horse, whom some necessary Business had hinder'd, from setting out with him. But before we leave Rome, it may not be amiss to recount an Affair, which his Lordship fully settled, before his departure.

One Flori (a Piedmontese of quality, and banish'd thence, a while since) after he had lux∣uriously spent vast sums at Paris, Vienna, and other places, man'd out to Sea (in Person) a Privatier, under the Polish Banner, tho' that Kingdom, has no one foot of Land, near Salt-water: When Roving in the Mediterranean, he met (towards the Coast of Egypt) two English Ships, the Jerusalem and another; and making them both Prizes (the last, because she wanted a sufficient Pass, and the other, for having the New Bassa of Tripoli, with his Family, on Board) carry'd them directly for

Malta: The News of this Insult, being divulg'd every where, the Leghorn-Factory presently made Applications to his Lordship, and ac∣quainted him, that if this past without satisfa∣ction, not only all Christian Men of War, but every Privatier, would be still searching, and disturbing their Merchants: That the Turks would do the like also; and all people (for the future) would load on the French and others, that could protect them from such dangers, and Inconveniencies; Nor were these Gentle∣men the sole Plaintiffs, but Letters came from the Consul of Tripoli, nay the Bassa himself, de∣siring his Excellences Help, and Assistance.

His Excellence, who (by his former Travels in the Levant) knew the Turkish Justice, which usually, makes the National Traders, feel the smart of such Accidents, borrow'd Mr. Han∣ford (Gentleman of the Horse to the Cardinal of Norfolk) and sent him in all hast, for Malta; having first communicated the whole Affair, to

the Embassador of that Order, then Residing at Rome.

By the Time Mr. Hanford got thither, Flori had again put to Sea, and given the Bassa his Liberty, upon security of 30000 Dollars; but represented the matter so falsly, that many thought, he had some Right on his side; how∣ever, the aforesaid Gentleman follow'd his Excel∣lences Instructions so well, that he secur'd all further Embeazlements of the Goods; Enform'd the Bassa (by Letter) what Care His Majesty had taken of him; comforted his Wife, and Servants, who were before, in the utmost Despair; and brought also an Inventory of what was taken, and what remain'd behind.

Nor was his Excellence on his part idle at Rome; for he acquainted all the Neighbour∣ing Princes, and Governours with the fact; as∣sur'd them, that if the King had not Justice done him, He would do it himself; writ kindly to the Bassa; left Letters at Genoua, Leghorn, and Naples,

for our Men of War (that call'd in) to pursue the Pirate: And lastly, satisfi'd every body in the main Point, to wit, of having Infidels, and Enemies on Board; For he not only let them see, the Determination, and Practice of the State of Venice, the Grand Duke, and others, upon Com∣plaints of ours in like cases, but shew'd them▪ how the contrary Procedure, would be a won∣derful prejudice to All Christendom; for seeing our Merchantmen, carry a hundred Forreign Christians, to one Turk, if Turks, and their Goods, were lawful Prize to the Christians, they also must be so to the Turks, and consequently, run the same Risque in their Persons, and Effects, which now (as 'twas evident to every body) they were absolutely out of danger of, tho' the Bar∣bary-Pirates, or the Grand Signiors Fleet, should meet them at Sea, and even knew, who they were.

In short, after much Negotiation, his Excellence made Flori (as a Bandit or Out-Law)

totally abandon the Sea; Caus'd the Priz'd Goods, and Persons, to be Restor'd to the Bassa; Had the Security, for his Ransom, declar'd Null; Sent his Money, and Jewels, found in the hands of the Captain of the Jerusalem to Tripoli; and forc'd the Vessel it self (now discountenanc'd every where, and wanting all manner of Neces∣saries) to run into Villa Franca, where being de∣serted by the Officers, and pillag'd by her own Men, she remain'd as a kind of Wreck: And thus ended this Affair, to the Great Honour of His Majesty, and the Reputation, and full Settle∣ment, of the English Navigation, thro' the Me∣diterranean; Nor did his Excellence fail of recei∣ving many Thanks from the Bassa (who in the end, lost no very great matter) and Acknow∣ledgments from all our Merchants in Italy, and our Turky Company also.

On the 23d. of June (as before) his Ex∣cellence left Rome, accompany'd by Cardinal Howard, the Earl of Salisbury, Sir John Lytcott, and

other Persons of Quality in several Coaches, to the first Post; and having there, taken his Leave of them, and particularly of his Eminence (so remarkable for his exemplary Life, and English Temper; And who (Athanasius like) chose rather, to change his Country, than any one Article of the Catholick Faith) He prosecuted his Journey, with great satisfaction as to the Heats, and Dust; but not to the Ceremony, which he now hop'd, to have been wholly free from; For he no sooner arriv'd (the following night) at the first Village in the Grand Duke's Territory, but he met there, his Highnesse's Officers (with all necessary Re∣freshments) that expected him: From hence (af∣ter some stay in a Chamber particularly furnish't for that purpose) he went on, and arriv'd (a little before Sun-rising) at Radicofani, where he found a Bed put up for him; and not only Wines, and Provisions of all sorts (even Ortolani's and the like) but the Duke's Servants, and Cooks at∣tending; And in the same manner was he still

treated, where-ever he Repos'd, in this Generous Prince's Dominions, as well on this, as on that side Florence.

At Florence, his Highness order'd Duke Salviati's Palace (which is the best in Town) to be put in Order for his Lordship; where he was brought as soon as he arriv'd; and where Count Magolotti, with great Attendance, was ready to Receive him: His Excellence (after he had been in Bed, and well refresht) went to Court to wait on the Duke; and from him, was carried to the Prince's Apartment, whom he saluted also. Next day, they both came to see his Excellence, and in the Evening, he waited on the Great Dutchess, at her Villa, about a mile out of Town, where the Beautiful young Princess also was. On the Third day, the Duke invited his Excellence to see the running of Barbs, after the Italian manner; which being ended, he took leave of his High∣ness, and of the Ducal Family, who were all, then present together; And having after Supper ac∣knowledg'd

his Obligations to Count Magolotti (who never left him from first to last) he took Post, and still found the same Treatment on the way, where-ever he past in the Grand Duke's Territories.

Bologna was the next City of conse∣quence; and this, his Lordship pass'd at break of day, leaving his Secretary to complement the Cardinal Legat, and so follow to the design'd Resting-place, about ten miles short of Modena; where (as soon as the Post-Master could give no∣tice) Prince Caesar D'Este was pleas'd to come him∣self; And carrying away his Excellence, they were soon met on the Road, by the Duke's and Cardi∣nal's Coaches, with Persons of Quality in them, to complement so welcom'd a Stranger.

'Tis difficult to express the wonderful Entertainment his Lordship found here; and therefore, not to lessen it by a low, and flat Re∣lation, I shall content my self in saying, That his Excellence was lodg'd in the Palace it self; had

several Gentlemen, Pages, and Officers, particu∣larly to Attend him; was feasted by His High∣ness, both in Town, and at his Delicious Villa of Sassoli; receiv'd all the Caresses imaginable from the incomparable Cardinal; and in short, that nothing was wanting in this Illustrious Prince, or in his most Serene Family, that might express the high Veneration, and Esteem, they all had, for our Mighty Monarch, so great in himself, and so happy in his Glorious Consort.

The Embassador's stay here, was about a week, and as Prince Caesar (out of his profound Respect to the King and Queen) met him (as was said) several miles from Modena, so he conducted him as far out of the City on the other side, and then with Embraces left him, having first gi∣ven Necessary Orders for his passage thro' Reg∣gio (which was about midnight) as also thro' all other places of this flourishing Dukedom. Nor did his Excellence make any further stop till he came to Lyons: for he past Milan, send∣ing

only a Complement, by one of his Gentlemen, to the Governour: And as for Turin, the Duke and Dutchess, were then at one of their Palaces in the Country.

At Lyons, his Excellence was forc'd to Re∣fresh himself for a day or two: And now the Wea∣ther being alter'd to the worse, his Journey to Pa∣ris, was neither so Pleasant, nor Easy, as otherwise it would have been: But all the Inconveniencies of it, were well repair'd, by the Noble Treatment he found at our Envoy's Mr. Skelton, who having in his long Ministry abroad, still kept up the Dignity of the Character he bore, was now, far from being behind in it: He met therefore his Lordship on the Road; lodg'd him in his house; feasted him there; accompany'd him to Versa∣illes, to wait upon the King; nor would he let him stir in a fortnight; that is to say, till he was probably sure, that the Yatcht (which was sent for) would be attending at Calis, and so his Excellence at his Arrival found it: But the Winds with-held

him for two days, from going to Sea; after which setting Sail, he landed in two days more at Green∣wich, and so came to London, staying only there, till he could put himself and Attendants into Mourn∣ing; for at his leaving France, he receiv'd the ill News, of the Death of that Excellent Lady, the Dutchess of Modena, who had been so particu∣larly kind to him, and whom he left well, or at least far from ill, at his departure from Rome.

To conclude then, on the 12^th. of Au∣gust 1687. his Excellence went to Windsor, where the King owning his Services, very graciously gave him His Hand to kiss, as did also Her Ma∣jesty, who was pleas'd to acknowledge, that he had fully answer'd her expectation.

And thus ended this Great Embassy, in which kind, no King has done more, and no Embassador, that had not study'd his Masters Honour, more than his own Profit, would have done so much.

FINIS.