The Swedish intelligencer. The second part. VVherein, out of the truest and choysest informations, are the famous actions of that warlike prince historically led along: from the victory of Leipsich, unto the conquest of Bavaria. The times and places of every action, being so sufficiently observed and described; that the reader may finde both truth and reason in it.

The Elector of Saxonyes Proceedings.

HIs Imperiall Majesty, after the Leipsich-losse of so goodly an Army, (which was one of the fairest Pillars of the House of Austria) seemes like a wise Architect of Fortune, to haue consulted especially upon the meanes; both how to shore up the side, by repairing of his own army; and to abate the stresse, by weakning of his adversaryes. It stood not either with an Imperiall or Austrian greatnesse, to goe lesse now, then when his army had beene victorious: nor so farre to satisfie so meane a Prince as the King of Sweden; as either at his in∣stance, or for his Armes, to restore their owne unto the op∣pressed. That would have argued feare in him; had drawne an implicite confession from him, that he had hitherto beene injurious. It was more honourable (hee was advised) to worke out his owne ends, by continuing on his old courses, and whilest he by force, undid the weaker Protestants; by Courtship and Ambassages so long to impose upon the cr••du∣lity of the greater, till the Eagle were ready to shew her pounces To make our stoutnesses, yeeld and comply with our businesse; goes for a note of Wisedome. That late af∣front and shrewd turne, which Iohn George the Duke and Elector of Saxony had so freshly offered him; is not season∣able now to be remembred: twas an unkind part indeed; but yet was his Imperiall Majesty full of graciousnesse: Austria could forget, and Saxony might make all whole a∣gaine

by turning. Thats now attempted. Marquesse Cada∣raita, then Spanish Ambassador at Veinna, was both the Coun∣cellor and the Agent in it. He in the name of the King his Master, sends Colonell Paradis with instructions unto Dres∣den; to make way for the compounding of all former un∣kindnesses with the Duke of Saxony. The Minutes of whose negotiation were to this purpose.

To expound unto the Elector, the great desire the King his Master had, and the diligence he had used in it; to restore a happy and an universall peace, unto the Roman Empire. That his Majesty had most expressely commanded his now present Ambassadour, to bee most observant of all such pregnant opportunities, as might either maintaine or make up that memorable and ancient amity, which had so many yeeres continued betwixt the two houses of Austria and of Saxony. That the King had at this time also most straightly charged his said Ambassador, to interpose the Authority of the Crowne of Spaine, for the sodering up againe of these late breaches: which might (if not lookt into) seeme to make a rupture in that amity. That would but the Elector now be pleased to hearken to a friendly Treary, he (the Am∣bassador) came furnished with such instructions, as might with fulnesse of content, compound all the controversies. That his Master, (as hee protested) desired nothing more earnestly, then that his Highnesse (the Duke) with his whole Electorall family, might be honoured with more additions of happynesse, then their predecessors ever were: and that there might be a perpetuated correspondency of all good of∣fices betweene their two Houses. That his Majesty of Spaine thought in his high wisedome, this to be the best course for all this; that the Elector would in writing deliver his greevan∣ces: and that a certaine place might be appointed, for Com∣missioners on both sides to treate upon them. Which if his Highnesse would for peace sake be pleased to condiscend un∣to: then would he (the Ambassador) perswade with his Imperiall Majesty, to send two Ambassadors about it: and

himselfe in the King of Spaines name being Interponent, would take any paines about making up the breaches.

Vnto this Proposition, the Elector returned this answer. That the purpose of his Majesty of Spaine seemed to have beene intended, towards the making of a peace betwixt the Houses of Austria and Saxony alone; and not of Ger∣many in generall. That none of that side could be so ignorant, as not to have observed how sincerely, faithfully, obedient∣ly, discreetly, peaceably, and in the highest degree patiently, he had carryed himselfe, throughout all the time of this most important and weighty businesse: and how hostilely (on the contrary) both the Count of Tilly; Sergeant-Major-Ge∣nerall Altringer, and Felt-marshall Diepenbach had used him and his Countryes; which, without any desert at all, they had not invaded onely; but after a barbarous and inhumane fashion ravaged and plundered, and with fire and sword de∣populated. That he for his owne part was not a little affli∣cted, that things were now comne to so troublesome, so dangerous and so desperate an issue: from being any occa∣sioner whereof, his hope was, that he could fairely excuse himselfe, before God and the whole world. That he now desired nothing more, then that such faire meanes might both be propounded and apprehended, for the speedy restoring of so good and solid a peace within the Empire; as that a bles∣sed agreement might be made up, betwixt the Head and the Members: the State surely settled: the miserably afflicted Empire, from this threatned ruine delivered; and all once againe restored, unto its former strength and Majesty. That he could by no meanes conceive a reason, how things in this desperate condition of the whole Empire in generall, could any wayes be bettered, by these personall and particular trea∣tyes. That during the time of these troubles, it had by va∣riety of examples beene manifested; that no generall con∣cord could by these private Leaguings be procured: but that more dangerous consequences dayly brake foorth upon it. That should he now condescend to his Majesty of Spaine in

this; he were no wayes able to excuse himselfe unto the King of Sweden, and the Protestant States of Germany. But if their Majestyes (the Emperour and of Spaine) were pleased to intend a just and universall peace; then would he shew himselfe most willing and most ready; to doe whatsoever lay in his power to performe in it.

A faire answer; relishing of a publike spirit, and becom∣ming a Prince and Elector of the Empire. Saxony wisely found out the drift of this Austrian courtesie: which pretended private friendships, whilest they intended him publike enmi∣tyes: and as wisely considered, that he could not long bee safe in his private Cabin, whilest the whole Ship were on fire under him. This Treaty was made, in the beginning of October 1631.

Nor yet whilest the thoughts and words of Peace were in motion, had the actions of warre on his Imperiall Maje∣sties side, any cessation. For so soone as ever the terror of the pursuite of the Victory of Leipsich was well over, and the Imperialists in Silesia assured, both of the King of Swe∣dens expedition into Duringen (quite another way from them) and of the stay of the Duke of Savonyes army, yet about Leipsich: doe Feild-marshall Diepenbach and Colonell Gotse, prepare to fall into the Duke of Saxonyes Lands, both in the Ʋpper and Lower Lusatia, which in the yeere 1623, this very Emperor had bestowed upon this same Duke of Saxony. The Duke, indeed, seemes to have consumed too much time after his recovering of his City of Leipsich; and to have beene something too precise and punctuall in examining and punishing such, as had either by their cowardise or affecti∣ons, given occasions of the sudden rend••ing of the Towne unto the Generall Tilly. The goods of the offenders (whe∣ther absent or present) were condemned: and out of them, 30000 Rixe Dollars allotted, for the repairing of the Sub∣urbs, which themselves during the siege had burned.

Gotse in the meane time comming over the River Spree, out of Silesia into the Lower Lusatia; takes, plunders, and

burnes the towne of Luben, close upon the said river. So is Dam also served, standing a little more Westerly. Gutterbock, about a league from that, is pillaged: and 30000 Dollars and Dollars-worth, fetcht out of those of Libenaw. His Horse also take in the little towne of Schlieben, in the Iurisdiction of Hertzberg: and all the townes, finally, betwixt the rivers of Spree and Elster; Cotwitz, namely, Spremberg, Hoierswerd, Finsterwald, &c. and all this was done before Michaelmas, and in the Lower Lusatia.

In the meane time had Field-Marshall Diepenbach underta∣ken the Ʋpper Lusatia: which lyes neerer to the Sunne, then does the Lower. This little Countrey is usually called The sixe Townes; because of so many eminenter Townes in it; which are Bautzen, Gorlitz, Sittaw, Camitz, Lauben and Luben; all belonging to the Elector of Saxony. To sollicite Bautzen, is Colonell Four sent; and Colonell Illo, to Sittaw: which two, together with the three other on the West side of the Spree; are faine to accept of, what they could not avoyde, the taking in of the Emperours garrisons. Vnto Gorlitz, (on the same side of the Spree next to Silesia) Diepenbach sends an Imperiall Commissary first: and he not prevailing, some of his armed troopes presenting their Ordnance before the Towne; com∣pell the Citizens to discharge their Saxon garrison, and to take in whom he appointed them. Thus were all the sixe townes by the middle of October, become Imperiall. Nor had the Duke of Saxonyes owne Home-stall (as I may say) beene se∣cure from them. September 30. five hundred Crabats brea∣king into Meissen or Misnia, approach unto old Dresden, upon the Easterne banke of the Elb; and within lesse then a Dutch league of New Dresden; where the Electors owne Palace is. Here had they thought to have surprized the old Iaggers Ca∣stle; but were discovered, and beaten off with the Ord∣nance of it: after which they were scared out of the Coun∣trey by the Saxon Army. For now the Elector having notice of all this, September 27. hee first sets out with his Army from Leipsich towards Torgau upon the Elb; the next fron∣tier

towne towards Lusatia. The fame went of 22000 men in the Army: and that the Lord Marquesse Hamiltons forces, (then about Custrine and Franckford upon the Oder) should be also joyned with them.

The Imperialists, upon the newes of Arnheims, and the Saxons comming; make towards Hertzberg bridge, where the Saxons were to passe over the Elster to come at them. Arnheim here forces his passage; beats Gotse backe from thence: who was faine thereupon to leave all he had gotten in the Lower Lusatia, and retreat with his whole Army into the Vpper. By the seventh of October, had Arnheim againe reduced all the townes of the Lower Lusatia; and then fol∣lowes Gotse into the Ʋpper: who hearing of his comming, leaves Diepenbachs garrisons onely in the Sixe Townes; and retires his forces into Bohemia partly; and partly againe into Silesia. Those that went into Bohemia, doe much spoyle by the way in Walsteins Dukedome of Fridland (which is upon the frontiers of Lusatia and Bohemia) not sparing his owne Lands and Territories. They were afterwards enquartered in the Earledome of Glatz. Those that made towards Silesia, did Arnheim give chace unto: who so hardly prest upon them, that they in confusion passing the river Neiss at Gorlitz, were faine for haste to leave their Ordnance in that Citie.

Then falles Arnheim upon the Imperialists in the Sixe Townes: which being none of the strongest, and the Townes∣men willing withall; are as soone reduced now, as they had beene before surprized. All this was done by the twentieth of October; by which, the Duke of Saxony himselfe was come to Bautzen, with the other lesser part of the Army: and Arnheim having thus cleered both the Lusatiaes, is preparing to fall into Bohemia.

October 25. hee first sets forward: taking in Schlukenaw Towne first of all; where the river Spree hath his originall. This is a Romane-Catholike towne upon the Northerne fron∣tiers of Bohemia; which the Emperour had heretofore given to the Earle of Mansvelt. Thence marches he on to Tetschin:

where the river Pulsnitz falls into the Elb. This being a wonderfull well provyded place, makes countenance of resi∣stance: but changed their copy by and by, so soone as Arn∣heims Ordnance, and the grosse of his Army, presented them∣selves before it. Crossing the Elb at this place, to Ausich, or Ausig, he comes: two Germane leagues and a halfe distant. Vpon the first newes of the Saxons being past the Elb, one hundred Horse-men of this Ausich, presently runne and tell those of Tepliz; a towne just so farre also distant towards the West. Those of Starahor, a strong Castle upon a hill kept by foure hundred Imperialists, hearing likewise of the same newes; poorely quit the Vestung or hilly Castle aforesaid. Thence, October 28, hyes hee unto Leutmeritz on the East side of the Elb; within 7 Dutch miles or 28 English, of the Citie of Prage: to which the chiefe of the Citizens and the garri∣son of Leutmeritz, had before Arnheims comming retired. Marching more Southerly next day up the Elb. the Austrian Baron Hoffkirck is by him sent with 1000 Horse unto Raudnitz, ten or twelve English miles further, and upon the other side of the river: which he surprizes. The Inhabitants being all Papists, have their houses plundered: some of the chiefe Burgers being carryed away prisoners, for their ran∣some, and the fidelitie of their fellowes.

Arnheim having thus farre advanced into Bohemia, Henry Mathias the old Count of Thurn, began to stirre also. His towne of Thurn, is upon the very frontiers of the Duke of Saxonyes Misnia, and Bohemia: and thereabouts (I per∣ceive) he began first of all to rise. He had his Commission for Lieftenant Generall, and some forces, from the King of Sweden; some aydes hee received from the Duke of Saxony: besides a party of divers banished and discontented Lords and Gentlemen with their Tenants, which he drew into the action. That there were two severall Armies about the end of this October in Bohemia; and those severally led too, by Arnheim and old Thurn, I finde expressely. With the Swedish troopes, does Count Thurn, first of all take in Ioachimsdale: a

towne with a pretty Iurisdiction belonging unto it, upon the West-frontiers of Bohemia, mid-way betwixt Thurn and Egra. Here the people choose the old Count for their Gover∣nour: who bringing the Countrey as hee goes along, under Contribution, marches towards Prage to joyne with Arnheim.

This great and Imperiall Citie of Prage, (which is indeed three severall Cities in one) hearing of these proceedings; begins to lose the company of the Emperours great Officers and Iesuites, there residing: all begin to packe away towards Budweiss first, and so to Passaw and Ʋienna. Nor did Walen∣stein Duke of Fridland, Don Balthasar, (then Generall in those parts) the Count of Michna and Colonel Wangler, stay behind: but faining to goe out of the towne, to meete with the Count of Thurn and capitulate with him; they all toge∣ther shifted for themselves other-where. These Comman∣ders being immediately followed by the souldiours (lately sent for thither for the defence of the Citie, and said to bee two thousand men) and the Citizens thereby left to them∣selves; yeeld immediately unto Arnheims first friendly Let∣ter and Summons, upon the first of November sent unto them by his Trumpet. Himselfe at his comming accorded the whole matter with them, upon these conditions.

1. First, That the Saxon souldiours from their very first admission into the Citie, should behave themselves peaceably and quietly; without offering violence or injustice unto any man.

2. That none of the three Cities of Prage should any way be charged: nor any Monasteryes, Colledges, or Churches pillaged. And that free leave of continuing in the towne, should be permitted unto the Monks and other Ecclesiasticall persons; who shall no wayes be injuryed by the souldioury.

3. As for the Gentry and Magistrates of the said three Ci∣ties, neither should they be burthened with any enquarterings or billeting of souldiours upon them: nor should any ran∣some or other forfeiture bee wrung from them. And if in case any of them (which is not to be supposed) should so be

used by the souldiours: then should they be protected by the Lord Arnheim, or who-ever should be the Governour resi∣ding in that Citie, where they be so molested.

4. For that the three Cities aforesaid have made an earnest request of it, that they may bee suffered to continue in the homage, which they once tooke oath upon unto the Empe∣rour: and that it may be free for any man to depart the City, without paying any ransome or Fine for it: this condition was for the present accepted of by the Lord Arnheim, untill his Highnesse the Elector of Saxony should resolve otherwise of it.

5. For that the severall abilities of the Citizens, were most particularly knowne unto their owne Magistrates: it should be left to their choice, in what houses to billet or not billet the Saxon souldiours.

6. That the Iewes as well as the Christians, should have freedome of religion; and all free protection both for their lives and goods.

7. That the three Cities should submit themselves to the protection of his Highnesse the Elector of Saxony: and that every man should make promise to live peaceably; and to give no occasion of sedition: but with a good and true mea∣ning, to observe whatsoever is contained in these Articles: which were by both parties thus signed.

Iohn George Arnheim.

• The old,
• The new,
• The little,

Citie.

Within a weeke after the rendring of Prage, came the Duke of Saxony into the Citie: taking up his lodging in that goodly faire Palace, lately built by the Duke of Fridland, up∣on the ruines of an hundred houses. The Count of Thurn contented himselfe with taking possession of his owne house againe; which the Emperour had bestowed upon the Count of Michna: Hee forthwith caused the heads and limbs of such Protestant Lords and others, as had beene executed by the Emperour, to be taken downe, and honourably buryed.

The Catholike Lords, Gentlemen, and Imperiall Officers of the neighbour Cities, make as much money of their estates as they can, and the most of them depart the Kingdome. Those that stay'd behind, as also the inferiour people, being afraid of ill usage from the souldiours; the Count of Thurn gives out a generall Protection in the King of Swedens name, for the se∣curitie of the Subject. Thus.

We Henry Mathias, Count of Thurn, Baron of Ballastrino and Creutz, Lieftenant-Generall to his Maiesty of Sweden, &c. doe in his said Maiesties name, give free leave, power, and authority to the Noble Gentleman Iohn Hoost Theysel, to pro∣tect and defend you and all the subiects of Bohemia, from all iniuries, &c. The Boores begin to appeare on the Swedish and Saxish party, and kill as many Imperiall souldiers as they could singly meete withall and master. They pillage Postelberg up∣on the river Egra: with Brustwald, and other townes there∣abouts. They murther two great Imperiall privy Councellors; the Earle of Thallenberg Lord President: and the Count of Trautmansdorff. The troublesome estate of the Country, may best be read in the Count of Thurns Proclamation, for the re∣dresse of it.

We Henry, &c. Count of Thurn, &c. understanding, how that divers Boores have begunne, not onely to rob upon the high-waies side, but also to pillage Castles and Gentlemens houses: and that no honest man is able to goe about his busi∣nesse, for feare of being robbed by them: therefore doe we hereby fairely request first of all, and advise them, to give over these insolencies: and to pray to God rather to send them a good Magistrate, under whom they may enioy peace and quietnesse: that every man may fearelessely returne to his vocation againe, and leave off these idle courses. For this army is not come to ruine or undoe, but to redresse the country rather, against such iniuries as it hath heretofore in∣dured. My hope therefore is, that you will not revenge your former wrongs upon these our souldiers: and I for mine owne part will still continue, as heretofore I have beene, your

good Patrone and Protector. As for those of the Gentry, none I hope will become partakers with these extravagant fellowes; but be a meanes and a helpe rather, to suppresse and hinder them in their naughty purposes. My further hope is, that both one and other will apply himselfe, to this our well intended admonition: which (let me tell them) will be a great deale better both for their quiet and for their profit. But whosoever he be, that after this, shall be apprehended for the like faults againe; let him be assured that I will proceed with that severity against him, as his demerits shall re∣quire; making him an example unto the rest, that none hereafter may impute their punishment, to any but their owne disobedience. Thus much shall the Lord A∣dam of Chinitz and Tetaw, cause to bee made knowne unto you.

By this time had Thurns part of the Army, taken in all the North-westerne part of the Kingdome, from Ioachimsdale aforesaid; along upon the river Egra, to the County of Satz, called the Satzer kraiss; together with the townes of Satz, Commothaw, Prisen and the rest, upon the West of the Ci∣ty Prage. Arnheim with his Saxons, did what he pleased upon the rivers Elb and Multaw, on the South and East side of the City: which he might easily enough doe, for there was not an Imperialist nor strong Towne, to resist him. So easie was this goodly Kingdome to be taken. Towards the middle of November, is the Imperiall Colonell Gallas sent in with some troopes against him. In the end of the moneth, when Tilly after his rising from Norimberg, had sent part of his army into the Ʋpper Palatinate, towards Weyden and E∣gra: he is requested to fall in with his troopes on the We∣sterne side; whiles Don Balthasar, Diepenbach, Gallas and Gotse should set upon them on the North-East side. Arnheim hearing of the comming of Diepenbach, Gallas and Gotse out of Silesia, and their being ioyned with Don Balthasar: re∣solues to goe against them, before the Tillians should be marcht up too farre into the Country, and he endangered to

be hembd up into the middle of them. By the 26 of Novem∣ber, were 15000 Imperialists, (both out of Bohemia and Silesia) met together at Limburg upon the North side of the river Elb, some 25 English miles from the City Prage. A∣gainst these, advances Arnheim, November 28: very secretly and in the night, without sound of Drumme or Trumpet. Yet not so secretly neither, but that the Imperialists by their espials had notice of their approaching. Arnheim now with∣in 2 or 3 English miles of Limburg, begins to put his men in∣to order; and to give directions for the assailing of the enemy (as he thought) in their Quarters. This whiles he was doing, the Alarme is brought home to him; and word that the ene∣my had already charged his Van, and disordered it. With that, might he perceive the Imperialists in faire Battaglia; and his owne men beginning to take the rowte at it. Perswading thereupon the Regiments next unto him, To remember the cause of religion and the publike liberty, which they came thither to fight for; the military oath taken to their Lord the Duke of Saxony; and their owne honours and former victories: he presently leads them on against the Imperialists. Drawing his Sword withall, upon those which he met now fleeing, and vowing to let flye his Ordnance amongst them, unlesse they return'd into the battell: he brought all in order againe, and altogether renewed the encounter. The fight was long; but the Imperialists having brought no Ordnance with them, (their designe having beene onely to surprise Arnheim upon his march) and the Saxon Ordnance doing much spoyle upon them on the other side: they were faine to retreate in much disorder towards Limburg. Many of them were cut downe by the pursuing Saxons; and the most of their Regi∣ments routed.

Arnheim summoning Limburg upon faire termes, and be∣ing refused; shootes Granadoes, and Fire-workes into the Towne: whereupon the Imperialists perceiving all like to be burnt downe, quit the City, and burne the bridge behind them, for feare of being pursued. But the Saxons finding a

convenient foord or passage neere-hand over the River, pur∣sue them on that side also. Some 6000 or 7000 men, were said to be slaine in this battaile: whereof there might per∣chance be little more then halfe so many. Diepenbach was at first reported to be kild also: but he saved himselfe by flight, and recovered with Gotse into Silesia: Don Balthasar escaped into Budweiss, on the other side of the Country.

The Duke of Saxony himselfe about Prage in the meane time, hath the Towne of Melnick upon the Elb, to the North of Prage: and the Townes of the Countyes of Pod∣berder and Multaw, to the South of Prage, delivered over unto him. Whilest Arnheim is comming backe againe, those of the Army with the Duke, with some of Thurns forces; make Westward towards Egra: there to prevent the Tilli∣ans. Some few correspondents and well-wishers to his cause, the Duke then had within the City: the rest generally being Popish. Vpon confidence of whom, he presented about 900 Horse and Foote (one with another) before their City upon the Gallowes hill, on Satterday, December 3^d, old stile. The Magistrates perceiving this, first cause the Alarme to be strucke up, and commanded every man, that was able to beare Armes, to repaire unto their guards: but a very few there were, that would make a muster of themselves. The Magi∣strates calling their Common-Councell together into the Statehouse, to consult either upon the meanes of resistance, or Composition: might have better saved the Towne, by putting to their helping hands, then by laying their heads together. For whilest they are there consulting; one of the Saxons correspondents by discharging of a warning peece, both calls those without, to presse upon the bridge-Port; and his fellow-Combyners within, to breake open the said Gate for them. The Saxons marching immediately up to the market place; there make a prison, of what Master Mayor and his brethren had made a Parliament-house: locking them all in, and setting a guard upon them. The souldiors pre∣sently fall to plunder the Iury or streete and houses of the

Iewes: and those ranker and more practicall Papists, whom they pleased to mistake for Iewes. For the Protestants and their Correspondents sake, they forbare the rest of the Cittizens: and were content to accept of such Billet and Quarterings, as the still pinfolded Magistrates (more for feare then love) were forced to assigne them. Two dayes after, the Cittizens take oath to the Duke of Saxony: that they would stand firmely to the Elector, the Cause, and the Protestant Religion. About this City, were some 8000 Saxons for a while kept; untill they saw whereabouts the Tillians would settle: who hearing after a while, how Diepenbach was defeated; betake themselves into their winter garrisons, Tillyes selfe returning unto Nordlingen.

The Count of Thurn now went to besiege Budweiss; a good strong City upon the very Southermost frontiers of the Kingdome, sixty English miles from Prage. Hither was Don Balthasar retired: and this place, he with twenty two Ensignes maintained. But the Count of Thurn fell sicke not long af∣ter; and the siege came to nothing. Whilest the Duke, and Arnheim and Thurn, were abroad with the Armyes; the Austrian Baron Hoffkirck was left Gouernor of the Greater towne of Prage, and Philip Reinhard Count of Solms of the Lesser. The Imperiall Horse (and the Crabats especially) made divers excursions about the Country; yea even neere unto Prage it selfe, in the absence of the armyes. For the Duke of Saxony was now preparing to goe keepe his Christmas at home: where at Dresden he arriued, December 16, and his Felt-Marshall Arnheim with him.

December 13, (old stile) divers troopes of Crabats made a show of themselves before the Weissemberger gate of the greater Towne of Prage: hoping of some Corre∣spondents or tumults within, who might helpe them to re∣prize it. The Baron of Hoffkirck discharging three peeces of Ordnance hereupon (which is the signe for the souldiours to take the Alarme) and sending out some troopes of Horse against them; drave them to the retreate. The next day,

(being Christmas Eve at Prage, according to the New stile) the Imperialists came on with greater forces: the Crabats light horse being backed with 1000 Muskettiers, and flanked with as many Dragooners. The Saxons well aware of their comming, had first drest an ambush of Muskettiers in a low∣er place of covert for them; and then sent out two troopes of Arnheims owne guards and some others, to entertaine them. These feigning to flee, draw on the Imperialists into the ambush, where a many of them were entrapped by this stale stratageme. By this time, more of the Imperialists ap∣peard in sight; and with a reasonable good army. Hereup∣on, doe the Saxons retire into the City; looking that it would forthwith be assaulted. But the Count of Sultz and Colonell Gallas (who led the Imperialists) perceiving the walls and bullwarkes to be already manned, and the Ordnance busie amongst them: call off their men, and faces about to the right hand. The Towne-Horse perceiving this, fall (as usually they will doe) out upon the Reere of the Imperialists: which as they were about to doe, all on the sudden the bells in the two Iesuites Colledges (one in the old towne, and the other in the Lesser) began to ring out. The Imperialists hea∣ring this signall, offered presently to returne againe towards the City: but the Ordnance now thundering upon them, no Correspondents appearing, and the short winters day be∣ing farre spent: they bethought themselves, and marcht off againe.

The Governours and Magistrates speedily sending to the Iesuites Colledges, to know the reason of the ringing of their bells; found divers Armes and Muskets there hidden: which were ready to be used both by the Iesuites (who would for that time have beene Ex militia too) and by the Imperial∣ly-affected within the City; had but their friends without, once made themselves Masters of any gate or bullwarke. These Armes were taken away: the Military Iesuites three dayes after, turnd out of the Towne; and their 2 Colledges given away to the Carmelites and Franciscans; two kinds of

lesse pragmaticall fraternities. The Saxons perceiving how often they were likely to be assaulted; stand better upon their guards: the Count of Solms causing the Burgers watch, every day to breake the ice of the river Mulda; for feare of the enemies comming over it.

December 22. the Baron Hoffkirck had the first Protestant Sermon and Communion, in the Dutch Church of the Old towne, that had in ten yeeres before beene publikely preached in the Citie. And by this time, were the exiled Protestants (both Clergy and Laity) in most places of the Kingdome, a∣gaine returned; and liberty of Religion restored.

December 24. the Imperialists, and three Ensignes of Wal∣lons amongst them; fall upon five troopes of Colonell Stei∣naw his Horse; then lying at Rakonick, thirtie English miles to the West of Prage Citie. The Saxons being surprized, are knockt downe: scarce 120 of them escaping with their lives, and losse of two Cornets. The Imperialists advancing neerer towards Prage, take short two other Saxonian Lieftenants (Hauguis and Wenzor as I finde them named:) who being gone out upon espyall to discover these Imperialists; found them too soone, and lost their owne liberties and companions lives, for their labours. Many such excursions and attempts were made on either side this cold weather, scarcely worth the writing. The Saxons, (of whom there were seven thousand now in and about Prage) being aforehand with them, stirr'd little abroad: but by sitting still and bibbing in the warme Stooves all day-long, they proov'd so lazy; as that they were ever now and anon, (though in small numbers) surprized by their more active enemies. Gallas and the Count of Sultz lay still in the lurch for them; even as neere as Beraun upon the river Watta, within twelve or fourteene English miles of Prage, and on the West of it: others of them lying more Westerly at that time, towards the Vpper Palatinate. For this reason, was the Duke of Saxony constrained to send more new levyed forces, with some Ordnance; towards the good towne of Pilsen, and those quarters: which lye some sixe

or seven leagues more South-Westerly, towards the head of the same river, and in the middle of Gallas his Quarters. This strong towne of Pilsen (as I should have told you) was by accord rendred unto the Duke, before his going out of Bohe∣mia. Colonell Swalbach Generall of the Saxons artillery, now lay in the County of Luitmertz.

The time of the yeere being too cold to fight, the Empe∣ror sends to the Duke of Saxony to treate. Iulius Henry, one of the Dukes of Saxon-Lawenburg (who had some yeeres be∣fore turned Papist,) was the man employed; and about Christ∣mas was the time. His Imperiall Maiesty by this Ambassador, protested himselfe to be very sorry; to have any occasion to withdraw his affection, from so worthy and so beloved a Prince: friendly advising the Duke, that in case he should still continue constant to his purposes, and that if any hard∣ship of warre, or iudgement from God should fall upon him for it; He (the Emperour) should be altogether innocent of it. But the weather was cold, and so was Saxonyes answer. These motions were severall times renewed from the Empe∣rour, both by this and other messengers.

About the beginning of Ianuary, doe the Saxons, under the leading of Baron Hoffkirck, defeate 900 Crabats, and take 11 Cornets from them: which they send unto their Duke at Dresden. Prage after this defeate, was held much the qui∣eter.

About the 15^th of Ianuary, the Imperialists of Mer••dies Regiment, have a designe for the plundering and burning of Slackenwald, in the County of Egra. Prince Ernestus of Anhalt, (who then had some good Saxon forces therea∣bouts) hearing of it; comes immediately upon them, and drives them to take Sanctuary in the strong Castle of Betscha, (from whence some of them came) about 2 English miles to the South of Slackenwald. Other Imperialists at the same time, make daily excursions even to the very gates of Prage. Those 3 Ensignes of Wallons, among the rest, that had before cut off 5 Companies of Colonell Steinaw's at Rakonick; were

almost every man of them cut in pieces, by those of Colo∣nell Bindthauffs Regiment, before the gates of Prage. This Regiment of Bindthauff (who was slaine at the Battell of Leip∣sich) was now bestowed vpon Ʋlrick, Prince of Denmarke and Duke of Holstein.

The Duke of Saxony now levying more new forces, about Torgau in his owne Countrey; Ian. 18. sends some 10 pee∣ces of Ordnance thither: 4 of which were Demi-Cannon, and drawne with 10 horses apiece; which Tilly had left be∣hind him at Leipsich. Himselfe was all this while at home at Dresden; and Arnheim with him: whither the Lord Chan∣cellor Oxenstiern likewise came, from the King of Sweden. The towne of Egra about this time, desires of the Elector, to free them of his unruly garrison. Prage it selfe likewise was so sorely oppressed by the Saxons; that the poore Bohe∣mian Protestants, lately returned to their owne homes out of exile: choose rather to forsake their native Country againe, then to endure the heavinesse of such taxations, as the ma∣sterly Saxons enforced upon them. Thus by the middle of Fe∣bruary, were there 1700 houses found empty in the 3 Cities: the easing of which hardship; the keeping of the Duke and Arnheim, from hearkning to the Emperour and Walenstein, (who layd hard at them:) to hasten forward the Saxon levies; and to renew the former league with the Duke, was the chiefe part of Chancellor Oxenstierns Ambassage.

In the beginning of February, Prince Ernest of Anhalt with the 8000 Saxons he had in and about Egra; makes showe of rising thence; and of going against Cratz into the Ʋpper Pa∣latinate. The occasion, was a feare conceived upon the Count of Sultz his going out of Bohemia: which he thought had beene to fetch in Cratz thither. This made him bristle up. But hearing of Cratz and Sultz their going to the reliefe of For∣cheim, (a cleane contrary way from him) he staies his expedi∣tion, and lookes to the Imperialists neerer hand. Within E∣gra, was Colonell Starschedel, left Governour. February 3 (old Stile) there was a great Hubub sent into Prage from

Brandeis (a towne upon the Elb, some 10 English miles to the North of it) that the Imperialists were with divers pee∣ces of Ordnance, comming very strong against them. Here∣upon does the Baron Hoffkirck make towards Brandeis, to prevent the enemy: who falling on upon the towne, Febr. 8, were put by their designe, and retyred. The next day, would a Horse-Regiment of the Crabats (with some Foot) needes make another brave before the Towne; as if they had meant presently to have attempted it. This the Governour percei∣ving, thrusts some bands of selected muskettiers (for an am∣bush) into the Castle, (on the same side of the towne next unto the enemies) and with some few of the residue, sallies (in policy) out upon the Crabats. These perceiving the sal∣lyers to be but weake, fall instantly upon them, and beate them backe to the very wals of the Castle: presently whereupon the Saxon Muskettiers issuing out, and the sallyers returning upon the Crabats againe; kill 300 of them upon the place: defeate, and disperse the whole Regiment. Here (as they heard at Prage) was the Count of Slyck either wounded or taken prisoner. The same third of February did some loose troopes of Crabats and others, put themselues (for the seeking of pillage) over the river Mulda, towards Pilsen: of which the Boores having notice, gather 600 of them to∣gether, sinke the boates first of all in which the Crabats had passed the river; and then set upon, and cut the throates of the plunderers. Thus the Boores served the Crabats often∣times; whose very name was more odious unto them, then any other of the Imperialists. These Boores undertooke the keeping the Westerne banke of the Mulda: which about this time, they had cleered for 40 English miles together.

February 13, was Colonel Marezan sent from Don Bal∣thasar di Marradas, (now lately returned from Walenstein with 8000 men into Bohemia) to fall upon the town of Satz, upon the North of the river Egra: and about 40 English miles to the West of Prage. Marezan brought but 1000 mus∣kettiers and 500 Horse, to doe the feate withall; his trust was

upon his Correspondents within the towne: who indeed o∣pened the gates in the night time unto him. The Saxons which were of Bindthauffs old Regiment, tooke the Alarme, and had three severall charges with the Imperialists. In which service, 1200 of them lost their lives, the towne was wonne, and 6 Ensignes sent unto Prage unto the Em∣perour.

And this returne of Don Balthasars, gave the first jogge; which turnd round the wheele of Fortune againe in Bohe∣mia. Some Saxon forces (as if they had meant to give way to their enemies and misfortunes) were gone a iolly voyage into Silesia: to pillage and triumph certainely. There, about mid February, they fall foule upon Colonell Illo and his Regi∣ment: which they almost utterly defeated. They surprise other Imperialists at Politz: and with a running pull, had like to have taken in Glatz also. Some of them flye out as farre as Gorlitz. Thus whilest the souldiours gate some slight pillage in Silesia; the Duke their Master, lost what they had before gotten him in Bohemia. For quickly now had Don Balthasar driven other of the Saxons out of Comotha, Prisen, Rade and Caden: which last, the Mapps falsely write Lada. The Marquesse of Gran, he also expulses them out of Slackenwald and Carlsbat.

And thus through the idlenesse, covetousnesse, and deepe security of the Saxons, (now in the absence of their Duke and Arnheim, and the sicknesse of the Count of Thurn;) was all that North-westerne corner of Bohemia, next unto Misnia and the Ʋpper Palatinate, quite recovered by the Im∣perialists. These being Masters of that wooddy frontier, cut downe the trees upon all the Passes thereabouts: to hinder by that meanes the Duke of Saxony from sending any Horsemen, Ordnance or Ammunition-wagons, that way into Bohemia. Yea, and had not the snow now hindered the Imperialists, they had even then marched into Misnia. The plague and famine, now increased in Prage and other places; and all things seemed to threaten an alteration. The Saxons had not used

their brother-Protestants, so kindly as they should, or might have done: which alienated the Bohemians hearts, that should have assisted them.

His Highnesse the Elector himselfe, was at a meeting or Diet at Torgau, about the end of this February. There was his Arnheim too. There were the Marquesse Elector of Bran∣denburg in person: and that wise Statesman, the Swedish Chancellor Axel Oxenstiern. The Emperor with other Lea∣guers, had their Ambassadors there also. Thus whilest one Imperiall Generall (Walenstein) is providing; and another (Don Balthasar) is already falne against Saxony into Bohemia; is there an Imperiall Ambassador sent towards Saxony, unto Torgau. Now whilest the warres are hotest, the Leaguers and Imperialists make motions for a peace (that was their businesse) which by Oxenstierns and the Protestants deman∣ding, to have the charges of the warre repayed; were put by for that present.

February 29. 400 Companyes of Polackes passe the River of Mulda neere unto Soltzan and Pribus; (some 30 English miles to the South of Prage) to goe towards Pilsen. Seven hundred more of them, are bold to venter their passage over the same River at Konigsal, within five English miles of Prage also. Against these, are three Saxon Captaines, Stram, Liech∣wies, and Toner sent; with five troopes of Horse, and three Companyes of Foote, to hinder their passage, if it might bee. By the beginning of March, were almost all the passages about Prage blocked up: those onely excepted towards Dresden, which the Saxons made a shift to keepe open.

And now began they (and it was more then time) to looke better to themselves at Prage. They fortifie the Horse-market; raise a skonce over the bridge there; plant some Ordnance upon all places of advantage; and towards the wa∣ters side especially. Now begin the Saxons to grow jealous of the Catholike Burgers, in all the three townes of the City:

many of them are committed, for that some letters of sus∣pition were found about them; others executed, for sen∣ding letters to Budweis, and entertaining practices and cor∣respondencyes with the Imperialists. All Catholikes are by sound of Drumme forbidden, to appeare upon any Alarme abroad in the streets; yea or to be seene out at their win∣dowes, terrasses, or Balconees, upon paine of great punish∣ment: but all the Protestants should upon like occasion, re∣sort unto the small side Ring upon the said Horse-Market-place.

The Diet of Torgau being ended, the Duke of Saxony drawes his new levyed forces together to the frontiers; to be ready to march with the first of the Spring, into Bohemia. This list of his Army was given abroad. Of his Horse Regi∣ments were these 8 Colonels, with each 1000 horse under him. The Duke of Saxon-Altenburg. Vlrick, Duke of Hol∣stein and Prince of Denmarke. Ernestus Prince of Anhalt. Baron Hoffkirck. Colonell Tauben. Colonell Steinau. Colonell Kalkstein, and Colonell Vitzthimb. besides 2000 Horse of the Country Gentlemens; and two troopes more of 150 a∣peece, under Vitzthimb and Truckses. In all 10300. Of the Foot Companyes, were there 9 Regiments under these Colo∣nels: whereof eight had 3000 apeece, and the last 2500. The Life-Regiment, Arnheim, Swalbach, Starschedel, Loser, Klitzing, Wilbersdorff, Vitzthimb, and Maschnitz. To these were added 500 Voluntiers under Colonell Appelman, and 600 more, under three other Captaines. In all 27600. Horse and Foote in all, 37900.

This List, if ever it were filled up; and had the Forces been mustered and brought together; hardly could the Saxons have beene excused from the imputation of errant Pultrones, and Cullions, so quickely to lose so brave a Kingdome as Bohemia: and to suffer the warres so suddenly to be brought home to them, into their owne Misnia and Lusatia. But Wa∣lenstein came sooner upon them, then was expected. The

Elector of Brandenburg, had some 8000 men, now also in a readinesse; unto whom the Swedish Colonell Dubalt be∣ing afterwards conjoyned, those few made better worke of it in Silesia; then all these Saxons did in Bohemia. This cau∣sed both the Duke and his Felt-marshall Arnheim to be sus∣pected, of what they were no way guilty. The suspition was partly occasioned, by Arnheims going from the Duke to treate with Walenstein: but the Duke answered honorably; and Arnheim hath prooved himselfe an honest man; refu∣sing such termes as Waelnstein (tis said) offered him.

Whilest Saxony was a pruning his feathers, the Imperia∣lists were againe upon the wing. Aprill 3^d. they assault Eln∣bogen upon the River Eger; a little to the North of Slacken∣wald and Falkenaw aforementioned. Twelve hundred men they brought against it; and two dayes and nights together, they batterd it. All which time, Ʋitzthimb with his garri∣son, and the Cittizens helpe, defended the Towne, and put off one or two assaults, very manfully. Aprill 5^th, the Imperialists fell very furiously on againe; and were againe as bravely repulsed. By this time the neighbour Regiments of Saxon-Altenburg and Anhalt, resolve either to remoove the siege; or else to beate up a Quarter, and to thrust some succors into the Towne: upon whose comming, the Impe∣rialists gave it over, and retired.

The rest of Aprill, was spent with losse unto the Saxons. By the end of it, the Elector of Saxony advances with part of the Army into Bohemia: and May 3, Arnheim and Philip Reinhard of Solms, march up after him with the residue. Arnheims employment was, to goe for Pilsen: and the Count of Solms was to returne into Prage againe. May 7^th, the Saxons set up∣on Falkenaw, on the Eastern banke of the River Eger, and betwixt Egra and Elnbogen. The Towne they take in by Sca∣ladoe; and prepare likewise to storme the Castle: which whilest they were about to doe, the Imperialists from thence setting fire upon the Towne (with fireworkes which they flung downe) enforced the Saxons to leave it also.

About the fourth of May, had the Saxon Regiments of the Duke of Holstein and Klitzing, with other their Associ∣ates: defeated three of Walensteins new Regiments neere unto Commotha. The Saxons of Swalbachs Regiment that lay at Leutmeritz upon the Elb, now burne downe their bridge there, to prevent the Walsteiners comming at them: who then lay at Budin some two leagues from them to Prage-ward.

Walenstein with his whole great Army, was by the begin∣ning of Aprill 1632, upon his march towards Bohemia: who quickly recovered Prage, and forced the Duke of Saxony and Arnheim home into Misnia: as in His Proceedings we shall tell you.

And thus being able for this time to doe the Saxons no greater honour, then to say no more of them: we leave the rest of their losses, to be pursued in Walensteins Story: and the recovery of their honours in Silesia and else-where, we cave unto the Third Part.

Notes

• The Duke of Saxony attemp∣ted to be tur∣ned.
• ••he Spanish ••mbassadours ••••oposition.
• Saxonyes An∣swer.
• The Imperia∣lists fall into both the Lusa∣tia's.
• The Duke of ••axonyes forces ••tive the Impe∣••ialists out of Lusatia.
• Arnheim mar∣ches into Bo∣hemia.
• and takes townes all the way.
• The old Count of Thurn makes a party in Bo∣hemia.
• Prage taken.
• The Duke of Saxony enters Prage.
• The Count of Thurn gives a protection to the Subiects of Bohemia,
• and sets out a Pro∣clamation, to re∣straine divers insolencies.
• The actions af¦ter the taking of Prage.
• ••he Imperia∣••••sts make head ••gaine in Bo∣••••mia,
• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 are over∣••owne by ••••nheim.
• Other townes taken.
• Egra taken.
• The Count of Thurn falls sicke.
• Divers at∣tempts upon Prage, by the Imperialists.
• The Jesuites hold a practice with the Im∣perialists.
• Religion resto∣red in Bohemia.
• Five troopes of Saxons defea∣ted,
• and two more.
• The Emperor sends againe to draw off Saxony
• 900 Crabats defeated.
• The Imperia∣lists attempt Slackenwald,
• and Prage,
• with losse.
• The Saxons ••ard dealing with the Bohe∣mians.
• Brandeis attēp∣ted, and reskue
• The Boores kill the Crabats.
• Don Balthasar turnes the Skales againe in Bohemia.
• ••••atz recovered ••y the Impe∣••ialists,
• ••nd divers o∣••her townes.
• A Diet at To••¦gau, where th•• Catholikes moove for a Peace.
• The Saxons at Prage grow iealous of the Catholikes.
• The list of Saxonyes new ••evyes.
• Some aspersi∣ons wypt off, from the Duke of Saxony and Arnheim.
• The siege of Elnbogen raised by the Saxons.
• Falkenaw taken by the Saxons, and forsaken.
• Some Actions betwixt the Saxons and the Walsteiners.
• Walstein ad∣vances into Bohemia.