The history of the government of France, under the administration of the great Armand du Plessis, Cardinall and Duke of Richlieu, and chief minister of state in that kingdome wherein occur many important negotiations relating to most part of Christendome in his time : with politique observations upon the chapters / translated out of French by J.D. Esq.

Anno 1626.

The Duke of Savoy's Design to continue the Warre against the Spaniards.

WHo so hath at any time beheld the Sun shining through a black Cloud, dissipating those darknesses that cover the earth; dispelling fear out of their Souls who had been affrighted with the Thunder, and rejoycing the World by the presence of his rayes, hath seen the Image of that happy Peace which entred upon the beginning of this year, in concluding the Wars wherewith Italy and the V••lte∣line were so much afflicted: But to go on with the prosecution of that which hap∣ned after the raising of the siege of Verrue, untill the conclusion of the Treaty; I must tell you, that after those advantages obtained, the Duke of Savoy being sug∣gested by those happy successes, and the Devastations which the Spaniards had made in his Country, desired passionately to fall upon their Army which was retired to Pand sture, as also to enter upon Mallan, that he might ingage the two Armies in a long War, and by that means be revenged of them. This was according to the temper of his Soul, who could not indure any quiet, but the Constable ae Lis∣diguiers, and the Marshal de Crequy, who desired not to attempt any thing which

might not sort to their Masters glory, opposed his design, representing to him that there was no sence of reason to assault the Spanish Army, which consisted of fourteen thousand men effective, intrenched in a place very advantagious with Can∣non, and where they might be releeved with all necessary provisions, and that neither the season nor condition of their forces, would consist with the besieging any place in Milan, without hazarding the Kings Army and Reputation. These reasons were very considerable, and the Constable without losing any more time, and seeing his presence would be needlesse during the rest of the Winter in Piedmont, withdrew himself towards Granoble, after he had put the Troops in Garison, un∣der the Command of the Marquis de Vignolles and Ʋxelles. In the mean while, it being necessary to give his Majesty an accompt of the condition of affairs, and to receive his commands, he forthwith dispatched the Marshal de Crequy towards the Court. This journey of the Marshal did much perplex the Duke, because hee doubted, that he would induce the King to Peace; as also, least he might make complaint to his Majesty of the little care which was had for the satisfaction of the Treaty of the League, and least he might lay all the faults which had happened in his dish. This moved him to resolve upon sending of the Prince of Piedmont towards him, as well to defend his Interest, as to perswade the King to carry on the War in Italy; and having dispatched him a few dayes after, they both arrived at Court about the beginning of February, where after they had entertained his Majesty according to their own desires, they were obliged for the better conside∣ration of their Propositions to put them down in writing; accordingly, they pre∣sented them to his Majesty, who assisted by his Ministers, examined them with great deliberation; and at last resolved in order to that Prince his designs; and withall, the more to oblige him to have a greater care in performing his promises, hee was assured of having the chief command of his Army, though the effect of it was di∣verted by that unexpected negotiation of the Sieur de Fargis in Spain, which ended in the Treaty of Mouson in Arragon.

Politick Observation.

HAppy is that Prince whose Councels in War become unprofitable by a favou∣rable Treaty of Peace, who can doubt but that the one is the source of all miseries, brings all things into necessities, deprives the people of their liberties, maketh the land barren, destroyeth the most glorious Pallaces, tieth up the hands of Justice and bringeth the Country men under the barbarous insolency of souldi∣ers; and that on the contrary, the other is acknowledged to be the Mother of Plenty, the beginning of the happinesse of Kingdomes, and the joy of Nations, that it giveth all Liberty of Commerce and Labour, leaving to every one the power of injoying his own Goods, making Arts to flourish, Justice to Reign, and banish∣ing all fear, which keepeth the mind in hell and in a continual unquietness, whilest there are any troubles. It is not much more pleasant to behold the earth, decked with its verdure, painted with all sorts of Flowers, inriched with the diversity of Trees, which either nature or the Labourers hand had Planted, replenished with all fruits and spices, and flowing with Milk and Honey, then when it languisheth by the insufferable hardnesses of Winter, converted into Snow and Ice, become stiffe and dis-coloured, and the Land Barren, and over-flowed with Water. So much more satisfaction ought a wise Prince to receive, when Peace commeth to deliver his Subjects from those miseries into which War had precipitated them, to restore them the free use of their own Goods, to give them the means of exercising their own Professions with quiet, to drive away necessity from them, to open the Ports of Trade from one Coast to another about their affairs, then to see them remain idle, and without exercise, in the want of the greatest part of necessaries, not daring to go out of their Gates, besieged by War in their Towns, and slaughtered in their own houses by sickness and famine.

The Conclusion of the Treaty of Mouson.

FOr the better understanding in what manner this Treaty was concluded, It will be needfull to look a good way back and to take the first rise of Affairs from Count Olivares the chief Minister of Spain, who finding that the Legat could not bring his business to that passe as was expected, resolved to use his utmost to accom∣modate things in a peaceable manner, and accordingly made several overtures that way tending, to the Sieur de Fargis, Ambassador with his Catholique Majesty, who was not wanting to give speedy notice of it hither; and at the same time the Marquis de Mirabel, Ambassador for the Spaniard certified to the Marshal de Schomberg that his Master desired a Peace. Whereupon orders were sent to the Sieur de Fargis, that he should answer to such overtures as had been made, that his Master would not be unwilling to embrace it, if it might be made upon Honora∣ble and safe conditions; and he was also acquainted with the Kings desiers in that particular which were reduced under three principall heads. First, that the Span∣jards should renounce all pretenses to the Passages in the Valtoline, next that the Soverainty of the Valtoline should be preserved to the Grisons, and last related to the safety of the Catholique Religion, he acquitted himself of their directions very diligently, but with so much heat, that after several meetings and conferences had with the Count d'Olivarez, they at last set down their several proposals in wri∣ting, which being agreed upon, they were signed by them, though the Sieur de Fargis, had no power so to do. The Sieur de Fargis conceiving he had dispatched a great affair, presently sent away the Treaty to the King, who was not a little surprised, as also his Ministers, to find a Treaty of peace concluded by his Ambassa∣dor, who had no Authority for it, nor had ever sent any word of advice about it. His Majesty seemed by this precedure to be obliged to recall him, and at his return to treat him according to his deserts: but his prudence guiding him in it, he would not presently conclude so to do, but proposed the business to be debated by his Ministers. Many were of opinion absolutely, to reject this pretended Treaty, not onely because the Form of it was ill, but because it was likewise an offence to the Kings Allyes, it being concluded without them; and withall, the haste and eagerness which appeared in the Spaniards was a manifest sign of their weakness, which might not be passed by without taking some advantage of it.

But the Cardinal taking hold of the discourse, told his Majesty, that prudence did not so much tye men up to consider the Forms as the substances of things, and withall told him that he thought it more proper to stand to the conditions, of the Treatie, then to dispute the manner of the Treatie; and how the Sieur de Fargis had concluded it; He confessed that those Termes which his Majesty had desired, were not expressed with all the circumstances and limitations, as was to be wished, and yet he represented to him, that it was no small matter to have obtained of the Spaniards, the chief points which were demanded; for they renounced the passages in the Valtoline; they were contented the Soverainty should remaine in the Grisons, and in conclusion he freely declared, That to his apprehension it were not proper rashly to reject that Treaty, for that the Spanish Ambassador had lately told the Marshal de Schomberg, that in case there were any thing to be altered in point of form, or if any of the Articles were too harsh, it would be more proper to review and amend them, then to neglect the reuniting of the two Crowns. Then he in∣formed his Majesty, how that his taking up Arms was for the establishing the Grisons in their Soveraignty and to preserve the passages of the Valtoline for France, in excluding the Spaniards quite from them, and that his Majesty obtayning both one and t'other he might both with advantage and reputation, hearken to the peace. That true it was his Allyes might complain of it, but without any sea∣son, if once those ends were obtained, for which the league was made, and with∣all the small successe of the Army in Italy made it apparent, there was little to be got by it. In short, he beseeched his Majesty to weigh one thing of great conside∣ration,

which was that Rochel not being yet reduced under his obedience, it would be an easie matter for the Spaniards to stir up the Hugonots to revolt, who finding themselves countenanced and supported by several Princes of the Court, would divert one part of his Forces, and would impede his sending of so many Forces as would be needfull on t'other side the Hils, so that instead of expecting a good Issue of the wars in Italy, there was great fear of many dangers in it. The Prudence of this incomparable Minister, urged so many strong reasons, that they were impossi∣ble to be answered, so that his Majesty resolved to lay hold on those advantages in the Treaty and to amend what should be thought fit in it; To which purpose Orders were dispatched to the Sieur de Fargis, with command to induce the Count d'Olivarez to agree to them, and in case he should make and difficulty of it, that he himself should presently take his leave and return home, to give an accompt of his business.

The Sieur de Fargis having received them, on the fifteenth of February, ad∣dressed himself with all dilligence to repair the fault which he had committed, and also in his letters to his Majesty testified a great deal of sorrow for it, which how∣ever did not with hold him from running into a second, for he concluded upon and signed another Treaty with the Count d'Olivarez, somewhat better indeed then the former, but not strictly conformable to his Orders and instructions, so that sending them to his Majesty, they would not be accepted of unlesse once more amended: and also his Majesty that he might take away all suspition from the Marquis de Mirabel, that he did approve of this manner of proceeding in his Ambassador he wished in a publique audience, that Fargis had been but as discreet as he was; that the first time, he did a thing of his one brayn, without any autho∣rity, and that in the second he had not followed his Orders and Instructions, for which he should exemplarily be punished. But that in the mean time both him∣self & the King of Spain did reape some benefit by his Folly, in that they might both discover one anothers minds to be without gall, and to be well enclined to peace, of which that he might give an evident testimony, he would send a Treaty to his Ambassador with the least alteration that could be, and such a one as the King of Spain, would not make any scruple to accept of.

The Treaty was drawn up, and before it was dispatched the King gave one part of it to the Prince of Piedmont, and to the Venetian Ambassador who both having several particular designs quite different from that of the league, neither of them did approve of it, either in substance or form; and the Prince himself took his leave of the King to return into Piedmont. The Marquis de Mirable, was informed of their resentments, who seeming to suspect an absolute breach, pressed very earnestly for a quick dispatching of the Treaty away towards Spain, in such manner and form as his Majesty desired it should be amended, and gave great hopes that all things would be concluded in a happy end. So the Treaty was sent away to the Sieur de Fargis who received it at Barcelona, and as his own Interests as well as those of France did excite him to it, so he played his part so dexterously with the Count d'Olivarez, that it was soon after signed and concluded between them, and antidated from the fifth of March at Mouson, to evade any complaints of Cardinal Barbarini, who had bin at Barcelona, before the Treaty was signed and had no hand in it, for fear onely of some great delayes, which he might have raised, because he had no other answer made him to those overtures of his for peace, but onely complements and thanks, & assurances that the peace was concluded. The chief Articles were, That the Affairs of the Grisons and the Valtoline should be restored into the same state, they were before the war, in the year one thousand six hundred and seventeen, preser∣ving by this means the Soverainty to the Grisons, and the absolute disposing power of the Passages to France, in whose actual possession they then were; that there never should any exercise of Religion be established in the Valtoline, but only the Roman Catholique and Apostolique, that the Valtolines might elect their own Governors and Magistrates, all Catholiques either of the Grisons or the Valtolines. That such elections should be confirmed by the Grisons, who should not however

have any power to refuse the Ratification of them: That all the Forts in the Val∣toline should be restored into the Popes hands, to be forth with rased and de∣mollished that the two Kings should proceed with all sincerity, to settle peace be∣tween such of their Allyes as had ingaged in the wars with them, and that neither of them should openly or privately give any abbetting or assistance, to the continuing of the war between them, without having first used all fair means and wayes, for the setling of a peaceable and friendly agreement. Thus were all the grounds of diffe∣rence between them ended and concluded, to the great Happiness of Christendom, though by away in it self extravagant enough, and contrarie to all usual Forms.

Politique Observation.

IN all Treaties of great Importance. It is more material to adhere to the sub∣stances then the formalities of conditions. Formalities are indeed, necessary as means to abtain that end which is proposed, and there is great reason to rest satis∣fied when that same end is once obtained. What sence is there not to accept of that which is aymed at when occasion doeth present, but to leave it off to the ha∣zard of time and Fortune, and all to finish it, with certain Ceremonies, which at last cast do not at all advantage the thing doing? The end say the Philosophers, hath this propertie, That it terminateth all motion; and so a stone resteth when once arrived at the center of the Earth, the end which the Creator of Nature hath a∣scribed unto it.

So the Artificer, when once he hath perfected his workmanship, forbeareth any further labour about it; and it is most certain that all causes whether natural or ar∣tificial, do prefer rest before motion, if it were not necessary to admit of Actions for the attaining that end whereunto it tendeth.

Who knoweth not that Publique peace is the end of a wise Prince, and the very thing too for which he doth attempt any war, and that he would never design war but only for the obtayning of a quiet sure rest? The sick person would never have any recourse to the Phisitian, if he had no need of putting his distempered body into a good order.

And what Reason could there be for continuation of the war, when there is an over∣ture offered for accepting of an honorable and advantageous peace? to do so were point blanck against the prescribed rule of Justice, of which both art & nature giveth us examples. Admit there be some formalities wanting in the Treaty, they ought to be considered in the order of negotiation, in the same manner, as the motions of nature; and as no one maketh any esteem of motion when as the pretended end is once obtained: So the wisest Polititians doe lay by the considerations of all for∣malities, when once they are arrived at that pitch which they propose to them∣selves.

The Pope is very glad of the Treaty of Peace, between France and Spain.

AS soon as the Treaty was concluded, his Majesties next care was to induce his Allyes to ratifie it; The Pope was first of all acquainted with it, who was overjoyed at it, and openly declared to the Sieur de B••thune that he took no no∣tice at all, of the extraordinary manner had bin use by concluding it without interesting him or letting him have a hand in it, only that he might rejoyce with the more liberty to behold the two Crowns of France and Spain in Peace: I shall also add that his Holiness excused himself too, for the Resolution which he had taken of sen∣ding six housand men to Pepeinheim, for the guarding of the Fort of Rive, assuring him that he had not done it, but only to vindicate the injurie which had been done him by the Spaniards, who were come to that point of Boldness as to say his Holi∣ness favoured the Grisons against the Valtolines; as also in some sort to repell the

injurie which had been offered to the Holy Chair, when as those Forts were taken which had been guarded under his Ensignes, and that he did moreover pretend by this means to get a greater power over the Spaniards, that he might afterwards the more easily force them to accept of a reasonable Treaty. But he was much more overjoyed at the news of the last Treaty, for he heard at the same time from the Si••ur de Bethune that his Master the King had also accepted of it, and that the Peace was by that means absolutely concluded.

The sending of the Sieur de Bullion towards the Duke of Savoy, to perswade him to assent to the Treaty before mentioned.

NOw as this Agreement was the principal thing which could be desired from his Holiness, so the Sieur de Bethune, satisfied him with it, by representing to him, with what respects the King his Master had treated him, by his admitting the Forts should be restored into his Holinesses hands to be by him demolished. All the Princes of Italy, who were not entred into the league, did testifie a great deal of joy at the news of the accomodation; but it was not so with the Duke of Savoy, and Common-wealth of Veniee, who upon the first hear-say of it seemed to be much discontented, for that the Treaty had been concluded without them; though in real∣lity, they had no reason to be troubled at the foundation of it, seeing his Majesty had obtained those ends for which their Armies and Forces had been united and leagued together: But in regard the form of the Treaty was contrary to that Order which was usually observed, his Majesty resolved to send his Ambassadors to them, to recompense by some extraordinary 〈◊〉〈◊〉, the default which might be omitted in prejudice of their right. The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 de Bullion was sent towards the Duke of Savoy, by reason of that credit and acquaintance which he had of a long time had with the said Duke. His Instruction consisted of three particualrs, The first to induce his Highness to assent unto the Treaty of Mouson, and to qualifie his resent∣ments for that it had been done without him. The second was to dispose him to∣wards a cessation of Arms, with those of Genoa, and to refer the business of their differences to arbitration, and lastly to treat with him, concerning the interests of his house, and withal to proffer him his Majesties assistance to raise him, to the greatest point of glory, that he could aime at. Upon the first of these three points, the Sieur de Bullion had orders to give his Highness to understand, that the manner of Sieur de Fargis his proceeding in it, had deprived his Majesty of all possible means to communicate it to his Highness, and that his Majesty having had advise upon it, was counselled to lay hold on peace, in regard of the disposition of Affairs both within and without his Kingdome, considering the small progresse the Arms of the League had made after two years time in Italy, and lastly for that those very things were obtain'd in the Peace, for which the League had been contrived, all which things were much more considerable then any Formalities and Punctilio's of honour. Upon the second point the Sieur de Bullion had expresse charge to tell his Highness, that his Majesty had so much the more willingly consented to the Treaty of Peace, that he might be capable of ending his differences with the Com∣mon-wealth of Genoa by arbitration, in respect his Arms had so little contributed to advance his interests as yet, and that if his Highness would be pleased to make known his pretentions. The King would embrace them very affectionately, and as his own; and would also concur with him for the procuring him all possible satis∣faction and content, either by disputing the business by reason, and if need were by Arms. Upon the third point, which had no relation to any thing of the League, and yet was no inconsiderable thing neither, for that it was designed only to al∣lay and take off from the Dukes anger and passion, that his Majesty well knowing the courage and magnanimity of this Prince, and that it was his high mind which made him esteem glory above all things, as also that eminent Titles of honour have a great influence on the Souls of those who are touched with greatness, and that it

doth bring them to that point which is pretended, commanded the Sieur de Bullion to humour this inclinations, and to let him know that his Majesty had by the Sieur de Bethune proposed to the Pope, to cause him be Crowned King of Cyprus, as wel in re∣gard of the pretensions which the house of Savoy hath upon that Kingdom, as also in regard of his particular valour, which was risen to so high an admiration and credit in the whole World, that this Title could not with Justice be denied him, and that there was not any King in Christendom, which would not be wel satisfied with the admissi∣on of a Prince of his Birth and recommendation, into that degree and quality.

The Dispatch of the Sieur du Chasteauneuf to the Common-wealth of Ve∣nice, for the Affairs before-mentioned,

THE Sieur de Bulloin made use of his Reason with so much Judgement and Prudence, that he obtained all he could desire: The Cessation of Arms was consented to; and accordingly, proclaimed in Milan, Genoa, and Piedmont. The referring of the businesse to Arbitration was well approved of, and his Highnesse delivered a breviate of his pretensions to the Crown of Cyprus, to the Sieur at Bullion, who assured he would recommend that businesse particularly to his Majesty; and told him, that most assuredly his Majesty would be very careful of it. On the other side the Sieur de Chasteauneuf was at the same time sent to the Com∣mon-wealth of Venice, to induce them to accord to the Treaty and accommodati∣on of Mouson, and from thence for the same purpose to the Grisons, the Valtolines, and the Swisses. Those first Reasons which were given in charge to the Sieur de Bullion, to represent to the Duke of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 were also included in his Instructions, and he had likewise particular order to ad•…•… to the Common-wealth of Venice, That they had great reason to be well satisfied with the Peace, seeing it freed them from a chargeable War, subject to many accidents, and in which well they might lose much, but gain little. And because the Venetian Embassador declared that he did imagine the assurance of the Treaty to consist in the keeping up of those Forts in the Valtoline; the said Sieur de Chasteauneuf had Order to let them know, that such a pretension as that was, would most assuredly have broken off the Treaty of ac∣commodation, and that all that was to be wished, was sometimes impossible to be effected: Besides that, the keeping up of the Fort; would be a great charge, ei∣ther in relation to the necessary expences, for the giving of a full satisfaction, or else for the maintaining of a strong Garison, and who at last cast too, might not peradventure be able to keep out the Spaniard, if at any time hee should have a mind to enter upon them with an Army. He was also charged to let them perceive that the natural inclination of the Valtolines, was not to indure any Rule or Go∣vernment, and that they would never have indured any long time together, that those Forts should remain in the power of a stranger, and that the Spaniards know∣ing their natures to be such, would alwaies be inciting and assisting them under∣hand to retake them; so that the keeping up of the Forts, would instead of secu∣ring the Treaty, onely become an absolute ground of troubles to the Common-wealth; as they who are nearest seated to the Valtoline, who are in perpetual fears and jealousies, and forced still to be upon their Guard against the Spaniards at∣tempts, which would put them to vast charges, and force them too at last to yeeld to reason. And he was commanded by his Majesty, that he might humour the Commonwealth in its Interests, to tell them, that the King would willingly grant them the Passages of the Valtoline and Grisons for ten years, he knowing how passi∣onately they desired it; and moreover, that his Majesty would in case they should request it, enter into a defensive League with them.

The Sieur de Chasteauneuf prosecuted these Instructions so luckily, that the Com∣mon-wealth was sensible of the honour the King had done them, in sending to them an extraordinary Embassadour upon their Affairs; and left it to his Majesty to consider, whether all those advantages which were to be wished for, were com∣prised

in the Treaty, and that for their particulars, they thought themselves much obliged for his proffer of a defensive League, assuring the said Sieur de Chasteau∣neuf, that they should be ever ready to continue those testimonies of affection and observance, which they had alwaies had towards the Crown of France, which was as much as could be desired from them. Then the Sieur de Chasteauneuf went to∣wards the Grisons and the Valtoline in prosecution of his Embassiy: The Instructi∣ons which he received from his Majesty concerning those parts, was to joyn him∣self with the Marquesse de Coeuvres and to swear those people to a solemn observa∣on of the Treaty. The Valtolines made not any difficulty at all at it, but accepted of the Treaty, as also to pay every year unto the Grisons, five and twenty thousand Crowns, which had been imposed on them: But as for the Grisons, there were many meetings and Assemblies held amongst them, without any resolution; but onely in general terms they thanked his Majesty, for his assistance, and acknow∣ledged themselves infinitely obliged to him. But as to the Treaty, they desired they might send their Deputies towards his Majesty to represent to him the difficul∣ties which did arise in their acceptation of the said agreement, by reason of the al∣teration of Justice, seeing the Magistracy and Authority, was given into the hands of the Valtolines. They accordingly sent their Deputies to make their com∣plaints, but after they were once fully informed of the Justice of those reasons which invited them to accept of the Treaty, seeing otherwise it would be impossible to preserve the Soveraignty of the Valtoline to them, or to defend themselves from a perpetual War with the Valtolines, who being under-p••••••pped by the Spaniards, would never submit to their longer government of them; as also that the Sove∣raignty of Justice was well payed for by a great sum, and that themselves too might be chosen into the Magistracy as well as the Valtolines, they did at last accept of it, and were content to receive the Treaty. So the Sieur de Chasteauneuf con∣tinued on his journey towards Switzerland, for the satisfying of his Majesties pleasure, who had commanded him to induce the Cantons both Catholick and Pro∣testant to accept of the Treaty, seeing they had not a little contributed to the re∣covery of the Valtoline, by those Troops which they had sent thither, and that it were not amisse to ingage them in the execution of those Articles of Peace, for that they might be very much assisting towards the preserving of the Valtoline in that condition as had now been resolved on. To the Catholiques he represented, that they had great reason to be satisfied with it, seeing the Catholique Religion was established so firmly in the Valtoline; and to the Protestants he alledged, that considering the Soveraignty was maintained to the Grisons, they had reason to rest contented; accordingly, the Catholicks resolved to subscribe to it and to perswade the Grisons to do the like. And the Protestants after some difficulties at first, being shortly after assembled at Aran, resolved likewise to imbrace it, excepting as to what concern'd Religion, and delivered their Declaration at the same time to the Sieur de Chasteauneuf. And thus the Treaty being accepted of all hands, that were any wayes concerned in it, there remained onely the putting it in execution.

Politique Observation.

AN Embassadour who is imployed to make a Treaty of Peace, is chiefly bound to represent to them, with whom he treateth, the great inconvenicences unto which thich they expose themselves by continuation of the War. For as Interest is the onely rise from whence all the motions of Princes do flow, so he need not doubt but that Interest too will lead them to any thing, if he finds a means to perswade them that War will be prejudicial to them. He ought not to be unmindfull of letting them know, that a Prince may not either with Justice or Prudence make a War, but onely that he may obtain a most certain and advantagious Peace; as also that that Prince who would continue a War, after a Peace is offred to him, with those two conditions annexed, is as unreasonable as an Artificer, who after he hath given his work the best most curious form, that it is capable of, should however

still continue his care and pains, to perfect it, though unable to give it any other or better form then he hath already done.

This once done, it behoveth him to tell them in words tempered both with Prudence and Courage, that the successe of War is uncertain, and that many Princes have fallen down from their great hopes and victory into misfortunes and losses: That the divine Providence hath often permitted those Princes, who are over ob∣stinate for the continuing of Wars, to be rebuked with disgraces and shame. That the Holy Scripture giveth us a notable example of this truth in that of the Tribe of Benjamin, who refusing these overtures of Peace, which were made to them, by the rest of the Tribes, when they intreated them to abandon the Gibeonit••s, who had offended them, were shamefully overcome, and their Cities Pillaged; That many having given way to their Ambition to perswade them to the Conquest of their Neighbours. Have seen their own States exposed as a Prey to their particular enemies: That many things appear easie in discourse, which are difficult to be put in execution. That they are not the most generous Princes, who suffer themselves to be led on with Passion, to inlarge their Borders, but they who im∣ploy their powers with prudence and equity; That a Prince hath glory enough, if he can but give his Subjects the means of injoying that felicity which is the end of the Politique Government; which happiness being linked with Peace, he ought not at any time to refuse the accepting of it when proffered with advantagious condi∣tions: In fine, he will make a great impression upon their Souls to incline them to conclude a Peace, when to as he shall discourse to them, that Princes who are ambi∣tious of their neighbouring States, are like unto hunger starved appetites, who never satisfied, but desirous to devour all, do weaken and destroy their natural heat by the excesse of those meats wherewith they fill themselves; and that in the same manner it is with those, who not contented with that state and condition whereto their Birth or Fortunes had assigned them, suffer themselves to be hurried away with an insatiable desire of usu••ping upon others; and in fine, onely weaken and impoverish themselves, and their Subjects by a continuation of Wars, which layeth them naked to the cruelty of their enemies, inforceth them to leave their Lands untilled, squee∣zeth from them all their means towards the Contribution of the War, and some∣times too casteth them into rebellion, when as once they begin to be weary with the violences of the Souldiery: and adding to these misfortunes the constant attend∣ants upon War the want of all those good things which are so plentifully injoyed with Peace, it wil be a most efficacious means to cause them to lay down their Arms and to accept of that peace, which is so offered to them.

Prosecution of the History.

IF it was a businesse of some difficulty to perswade the Allies to accept of the agreement, it was no whit lesse troublesome, to execute those Articles which had been concluded particularly for demolishing those Forts in the Valtoline: The two Armies could by no means be drawn off untill the Forts were slighted, which was no small charge to the two Kings as well as to his Holiness, who had carried six thousand men as far as Milan; whence is followed that it was treated both in France, Spain, Rome, Milan and Valtoline, in what manner it should be done, and so many difficulties did arise, that it was November before any thing was re∣solved on; and the execution of it deferred untill February in the year one thousand six hundred twenty seven. The Treaty was to this effect, that the Forts should be restored into his Holinesse hands to be forthwith demolished; but the Pope made some difficulty of charging himself with the doing of it, and onely desired that the Forts might be delivered up into his hands, for reparation of the injury, which had been dore him as he perswaded himself, when as the Marqueis de Coeuvres took them from him, and that afterwards he would cause the Spaniards to rase them. France did not at all stand upon re••••oring them into the Popes hands, but the King would be well assured that the Pope should not deliver them over into the Spaniards

hands to be by them demolished, to which effect he desired that his Holiness, would only send in so many Souldiers, that in appearance only they might seem to be Masters, which his Holiness would not be drawn to, and the Spaniards too disswaded him from it, as hoping that when his Holiness should have them in his absolute power, they might find some way or other, to get them into theirs and so demolish them, which many amongst them thought to be very honourable, though divers others were of a contrarie opinion, as imagining it to be a work ignoble for their Master, who had first caused them to be built.

The Final agreement for the demolishing of the Forts in the Valtoline.

AFter many contestations off and on, the King to end all differences, gave full power to the Sieur de Bethune to conclude at Rome with the Pope and Spanish Ambassadours, any thing that was reasonable to be do, and between them it was at last concluded, that the Forts should be delivered into the hands of Torquatus Conty, who commanded the Popes Forces: that in the mean while the Kings Forces were to quarter in such places, as were not included in the deposite, That as soon as ever the Forts were delivered up, they should presently demolish them; That the Arms, Artillerie and Ammunitions of war, which belonged to the Spani∣ards, should be restored to them and that the discharges being granted, his Holiness Forces, as also those of the two Kings should withdraw themselves at the same time from the Valley and the Earldoms of Bormio and Chiav••nnies; These were the principal Articles resolved upon for execution of the Treaty, which after it was ra∣tified by the King, the Marques de Coeuvres presently trealed with Torquatus Conty and Don Goneales de Cordua, whom the Spaniards had sent in Ferra's place as a man more enclined to peace, concerning the form of the redemise and demolition of the Forts. There were Commissaries likewise appointed for the giving in of true Inventories of the Artillerie, Ammunitions of war, victuals and the deposit, and to make a general discharge which ought to be given to the Pope, upon his en∣trance into those Forts, which had formerly been delivered to him in deposit. Upon the fifteenth, the demolition was began, and so many labors came to finish it, that in six dayes it was all ended. The Marquis de Coeuvres gave order to the Marquis ae Tequiers to retire with his Majesties Forces towards France, and his Majesty, for a just and worthy recompence of his services, bestowed in him the Ho∣nour of Marshal de Campo; and thus the respect and reference, which the two Crowns made to the Pope, were an assured means for settling them in peace with one another.

The Reasons which oblige great Princes to shew an extrardinary honour to the Pope.

THere are divers Reasons which invite great Princes to pay an extraordinary respect so the Pope. They are bound to it by duty, seeing as St. Bernard saith, he is the high Priest, the Soveraign Bishop, the Prince of Bishops, Heir to the Apostles, that he is like Abel in his Priority, Noah in his Government, Abra∣ham in his Patriarch-ship, Melchisedech in his Order, Aaron in his dignity, Samuel in the excellency of his Judgement, St. Peter in the Power which he received from the Son of God, seeing he is the cheef of Christians, the Shepheard of the people, the Rod of the Mighty, the Hammer of Tyrants, the Father of Kings, the Light of the World, and the Lievtenant of God upon Earth: And who seeth not that all these eminent qualities, do make him amongst other Potentates here below, the same that the Sun is in comparison of the rest of the Stars? And then looking on his Per∣son, and beholding the Object whom he doth represent, which is no other than

God himself, ought not every one be perswaded to treat him, withall imaginable respects for the love of God the Almighty Lord, who governing States by the hand of Providence, doth most commonly blesse them in that proportion, as Prin∣ces respect those for his sake who belong unto him. To speak truth, this honour∣ing them is a Loadstone, which draweth down all kind of blessings from Heaven, which conduce to the Happiness of Kingdomes: And if neither of the two consi∣derations should be potent enough, over the minds of Kings, to perswade them to bear a great reverence to the Pope; yet in my opinion they are bound to it by a ve∣ry Politick and considerable reason, which is to preserve themselves in Peace. For that it hath been alwaies judged necessary that amongst Princes there should be an Impartial chief, and a general father of Jesus Christs family, who might accom∣modate their differences, and might by his Counsels moderate, the violence of those, who make unjust attempts, and who might unite their Arms and Powers to defend the from the violences of its enemies.

If it should so happen that the Pope should become contemptible by the little respect which is rendred to him, what credit could he have, to conclude or effect such things amongst them? what esteem could he have to end their differences. They might force him to contain himself within the limits of his spiritual jurisdicti∣on, without medling in temporal affairs, but in the interim, the fire of war would often break out amongst them, with such fury that both themselves & estates would be consumed in the Flames of it: Whereas did they but receive his Counsels with res∣pective honour, and admit of his perswasions with esteem, his dignity would then become venerable amongst them all, and he might with ease accommodate their divisions, by his allotting to each one what belongeth justly unto him, he might re∣store peace to the Nations, and stop the course of all violent proceedings.

Articles of Peace granted to the Rochelois.

AS Peace is the most sure Foundation of the happinesse of Kingdomes, so the Cardinal was not satisfied to have setled it abroad, but indeavoured the procu∣ring it for those of Rochel, and to establish it in France, both for the greatest good of the people, and the highest glory of his Majesty that could be aimed at. Hee quickly set on work divers persons of the Town, whom he had gained by opening their eyes, and who were potent enough, with several others, to perswade them to follow the example of the rest of their Party. So that the Deputies who had been sent by the Assemblies of the Hugonots, comming to Court to present to his Majesty the Ratification of the Articles of Peace, which it had pleased his Majesty to accord to them the year last past, were accompanied with those of Rochel, who came in their behalf to offer their submissions, and to beseech him that they might obtain the same grace and favour which had been granted to the rest of that party. It is true, they did not so much repent for their Rebellion, as they were sorry for those inconveniences, which the Kings Army had put upon them, then command∣ed by the Marshal de Themines, who succeeded the Marshal de Plessis, and who pressed so close upon them, that they could not peep out, but in danger of being taken: For that they no longer had the liberty of injoying their Goods, and that all their Traffique was spoiled. Affliction doth at last open the eyes of those Re∣bels, whom insolency and ambition had but lately closed up, of which they gave assured proof, by those earnest intreaties which they made to his Majesty, to forget the Rebellion of which they had been guilty. The same reasons which invited his Majesty to shew his Clemency to the rest of that party, did also perswade him to do the like to them of Rochel; as also the Cardinal hinted one more to him, some∣what powerfuller then the rest. There had then been newly discovered a Combi∣natiyn between divers Princes and Lord, of the Court as shall be anon declared, and amongst others, one of their designs, was to ingage Mensieur with the Hugonots Party; so that if Peace had not been granted to Rochel as well as to the other Towns and Cities, it were the ready way to let open a door for War, and to give

those Rebels the more means to execute their designs by a high hand; for it were an easie matter by the means of this one City, to raise all the party. And last of all, this great Minister laid down before his Majesty, That the English (being as they were picking a quarrel with us, to which they were inclined) would upon a word speaking find Rochel ready to let them into France. These reasons of State were of great weight, and fit to be considered, of which his Majesty being sensible, he did at last grant the City of Rochel the favour which was desired, and the Car∣dinal was not a little diligent to watch that this Peace were not concluded upon such shamefull Articles, and full of basenesse, as formerly they had been. The King consented that the Town should be delivered into the hands of the Corporation, on condition they kept no Ships of War; that they observed those Orders for Traffique which were established in the rest of the Kingdome: That they should restore to the Ecclesiastiques all the Goods which had been taken from them: That they should suffer the Catholicks to live freely and quietly in the exercise of the Roman Catholick and Apostolick Religion, and in the injoyment of those Goods which appertained unto them: That his Majesty should leave what Garison he thought fit in Fort Lewis, and the Islands of Ree and Oleron, onely promising that out of his bounty and goodnesse, he would settle such a course in it, as those of Rochel, might receive no trouble by it, either in their Commerce, or the injoyment of their goods. These Articles were agreed on about the beginning of February, and the next day the general and particular Deputies ratified and confirmed them, thinking them∣selves happy, for having obtained this end from his Majesties Bounty. By this years injoyment of Peace among the Hugonots, his Majesty did with the more ease detect and break the designs of those who were factiously bent, as also he as∣sisted his Allies in Germany, he eased the people, and went on labouring in the means, for restoring of that happinesse and glory, which had been so long wished for in the Kingdome. I shall onely adde, that his Majesty for the surer execution of the Treaty, sent Commissaries to Rochel, who were received there with great honour: Those of Rochel having sent their Deputies to Surgeres, for the establish∣ing the exercise of Religion, and setling things into such order, that there were very great hopes of a true Obedience and long Peace, had not that people been extream∣ly much inured to Rebellion.

Politique Observation.

ALthough the Rebellions of subjects force a Prince to punish some for an example, yet prudence doth oblige him sometimes to dissemble it, and to give them peace, when as there is any fear of a greater mischief to follow, by any new revolt, which joyning their flames with the former, might endanger the putting of the whole into combustion. It could not be any weakness of heart, or necessity (to which as an Antient saith, the Gods themselves are obedient) will force him to it. It is no fault to fear, when as there is a just ground for it, but it is rather a great piece of prudence, and a vertue, without which there is no enjoyment of happy success in war any long time together of this. Marcellus heretofore gave us a good example, when as Badius, that he might acknowledge the favour which Hanibal had done him, in saving his life, and giving him back his Ransom, made the most part of the inhabitants of Nole revolt against the Romans in the Battle of Cannes. This Captain seeing the conjuncture of Affairs, did oblige him rather to allay then exasperate, used his utmost power to regain Badius, by assuring him, that if he would but return to Rome, those wounds which he had that day received, would bring him great rewards: Badius was much taken with the generousnesse of the Message, and Marcellus the more to accomplish his design, sent him a very goodly Horse, and five hundred drachma's of Silver, which did so oblige him, that he was ever after very loyal and faithfull to him, so that from that time forward he would never in∣flict any punishment upon those who were revolted. It was more by Prudence then by Force that the Romans became Masters of the Universe. A discreet Mini∣ster

ought much rather to induce his Master to accommodation on such occasions, then to hazard the State in any eminent danger, by too much stiffenesse in resolu∣tion, for the punishing of those who are revolted, when they are upon the point of having a strong assistance, by which means they may hazard the successe of the War.

An Edict against Duels.

JT was no small happinesse for France to be thus at Peace abroad, and with the Hugonots at home, but the Cardinal could not imagine it sufficient, if not setled amongst the Nobility, who were every day cutting one anothers Throats in Duels. It was impossible to perswade them by any reasons, that it was one of the greatest parts of glory, for a wise man and a Christian, to overcome his own emotions of anger, and to forgive his enemies. So this great Minister insinuated into his Ma∣jesty, who was already zealously desirous of Justice: That nothing was so contra∣ry to the Law of God, and the welfare of his own State, as Duels, in which there every day perished many of the Nobility, and which hath been alwaies known for one of the greatest Incendiaries of France. It was no hard matter, to perswade him to stop the further course of it, by the terrours of those punishments included ••n an Edict against all such, as should bee found guilty of the breach of it. The Edict contained, that all such as should for the future fall into that crime, either challenging or challenged, should be ever after deprived of all their Char∣ges, Pension or other gifts, notwithstanding any letter of favour or grace, which they might procure or obtain, either by surmise or otherwaies; and that in case they should afterwards attempt any thing against those who should be placed in their Offices, they should presently be degraded out of the Nobility, declared not to be Gentlemen, but Yeomen, and punished with death. And besides, that a third part of their Goods should be confiscated: That the person who carrieth a Chal∣lenge should under the Penalties abovesaid be banished three whole years: That all such as should assault or fight with one another▪ upon any occasion, should be proce••ded against and punished, as if the design to fight had been premeditated. That all such as should fight out of the Kingdome should be punished in their Goods during their absence, and in their persons after their returns in the same manner, as if it had been committed in France. And lastly, that such as should take with them either a Second or Third, should be punished with out more a do, with death: As also all such, who should the second time carry any one a challenge for Duel.

These were the chief punishments included in the Edict, and upon the publica∣tion of it, his Majesty took a solemn oath, not to she any favour to those who should break it, and commanded his officers, that if it should happen that his Ma∣jesty, might by importunity be drawn to grant any pardons for it, they should take no notice of it, and enjoyned the Marschals of France to have a great care in en∣ding any difference which might arise between the nobility, giving them authority, that in case any should refuse to give that satisfaction, which should by them be injoyned, they should presently besides those punishments of imprisonment, and such others as might be inflicted on them, be forth with degraded of their nobi∣lity▪ It was however much to be doubted, lest those, who should be challenged and did n••t fight would be esteemed as cowards, but to prevent that disorder, his Majesty did also by the same Edict declare, that such refusal to accept of any Challenge should be esteemed as a mark of courage, generous and prudent conduct, and deserving to be imployed in Military commands; and hee did likewise promise by oath before God, that he would reward such as should forbear to accept of any such challenges.

Politique Observation.

PRinces may not permit Duels without partaking in the Crimes of them; for who so hath the Authority in his hands, and maketh not use of it, to punish those offences which are committed against the Laws, is no lesse guilty, then they who are the absolute Authors of such misdemeanors. The people do not only violate the Law in the persons of their Kings; but the Kings themselves in not punishing the offenders, are guilty of the same crime.

How unjust is it to leave Duels unpunished, seeing they are condemned by the Judgment of God, when he said, his Blood shall be spilt, that spilleth the Blood of his Neighbour. And under the new Law who so shall take the Sword in hand shall perish by the Sword. I may safely say, there is not any Crime so enormous as this, for the man who commiteth it, taketh that Authority which God hath reserved to himself, according to that saying of Saint Paul to the Romans, Ven∣geance is mine, and I will repay it. And it is not only an attempt upon Gods pre∣rogative, but also one of the greatest miseries that a Common-wealth can be af∣flicted with: For as a great losse of Blood, extinguisheth the vigor of our bodies, maketh our faces become pale, and rendreth nature weak and languishing: So likewise is it with Duels, which draw out the most couragious Blood of the nobi∣lity, in which consisteth the Chief strength of the State, which mightily impair the force of it, exstinguishing the lively colours of its beauty, and bringing it into a lan∣guishing condition: And if the State be injured in it, those particular persons who perish in such combats are much more exposed to many unhappinesses; for with, the life of their bodies, they likewise lose that of their Souls, by the losse of which the utmost they can hope for is to become objects of Gods Just vengeance, who is sel∣dome wanting to punish even those who escape with the victorie, with some no∣table chastisement, unlesse they pacifie him by a true repentance: For can it be otherwise then very displeasing to him to behold his workmanship so destroyed, which cost him so much, and to see such Souls ruined by the enemy, which have heretofore invited him to shew such effects of his power, and such miracles of his love, and all for their sakes?

The cause of this misfortune is no other then a false and damnable tenent, which finds wayes to perswade men, that it is glorious to be revenged, and that to suffer an injurie unpunished by their Swords, is a great losse to their Honour. But can there be any reason to think an Action honourable, which is so contrary to God's Laws? It cannot be denied but that the nobility do draw there Chief glory from their courages, but there is a great difference between this vertue of generosity and the Passion of Revenge. This same vertue is no fury, and transportation of the mind, to things against both humane and divine Laws: But it is a vigorous reso∣lution; commendable in a generous Soul which maketh him despise dangers, especi∣ally when his Prince commandeth him to fight against the enemies of the State. Valour hath it's limitation as all other vertues, and who so goeth beyond those bounds, falleth into the extremity of vice, whence it hapened that Agesilaus said, according as Plutarch reporteth it, That valour ought not to be regarded, if not accompanied with Justice. Now that which is shewed upon private authority, is it not quite contrarie to it? Reason obligeth a man to overcome himself at private and particular quarrels, just as he would his enemies. In Common-wealths well governed Revenge is an Act savouring of a Brute. Socrates once answered a certain man who beat him, If I were an Asse I should run upon thee too, but being a man I must endure it with patience. Is there any reason or sense to fix honour upon an Action prohibited by God, and forbidden by nature? Honour would be but ill grounded, if it had any dependance, upon an unruly passion; it cannot be linked to any thing but vertue, and none but they who are overswayed by passion do pretend to attain it, but by vertuous wayes.

The Condemnation of a Book composed by Sanctarellus the Jesuit.

WHilst his Majesty was using these just and prudent means, for the esta∣blishing of Peace in the State, There did arise very great disputes in the University of Paris, especially between the Doctors of Divinity; and all about a certain book composed by a Iesuit, one Sanctarellus by name, which treated of the power Popes had over Kings, which book had been approved by their Chief President, by his Holinefs Vicegerent, and by the Master of the Holy Palace. His Doctrine was very strange, teaching that Popes had a Power of direction, or ra∣ther correction over Princes, that they might not onely excommunicate them, but deprive them of their Kingdomes too, and absolve their Subjects from their Oaths of Allegiance, whether it were for Heresie, Apostacy, or any other great publick Crime, whether it were for the insufficiency of their persons, or for their not de∣fending the Church; and that his Holinesse might at last give their States to such as he should think fit. They who were clear sighted, attributed this work to the Spa∣niards Ambition, which useth all devices to stir up commotion amongst their neigh∣bours, and fish their own ends out of the troubled Waters, and who did at that time chiefly aim to draw the hatred of all Christendome upon the King, by reason of the succours which he had given to the Grisons and Hollanders, and of some as∣sistance which the Princes of Germany, who were oppressed by them, did hope for from his Majesty. These tricks of theirs are so ordinary, that it might easily be concluded this in particular was shot out of their Bow, and that it was onely a piece forged in the Fire of their Ambition. But that we may not be longer stay∣ed upon the consideration of the promoters of so strange an opinion. I shall only add, that for the present it made a great noyse amongst the Doctors, and was opposed by several books, which were then set out; and that the whole Body of di∣vinity did condemn it; some indeed of the old league seemed to favour it; But the Parliament, which is the depositarie of the Kings power, that they might not let his Majesties Authority rest Idle, called the chief of the Society of Iesus before them, and obliged them to sign a Declaration, by which they should condemn the said Book, and to cause another of the like to be subscribed by all the Provincials and Rectors, and by six of the most ancient of every one of their Colledges in France, and so ordered the said Book to be burn'd by the Hangman, with prohibition to the Sta∣tioners to sell any of them.

That the Kings of France may not be deposed by the Pope.

IT is very often no lesse important to prevent the offending of the Regal Autho∣rity, by the publishing of any pernicious Doctrine, then to oppose any vio∣lences which are offered to it by Arms. In my opinion he spoke very learnedly, who likened this authority to the apple of the eye, which may not be touched though never so little, but the whole man is suddenly troubled and hurt by it; for to say truth, it can hardly be expressed unto how many inconveniences a State is exposed, when once the authority is entrenched upon, or shaken, though it be but a very little. But would not that Magistrate be very much to blame, who should suffer, that the authority of our Kings should be brought under any other power, which might despoil them of it? Were it not the only ready way to open a gate to the revolts of Grandees, who would find means enough to embroyle the State as often as they pleased, if the people might but once be perswaded that the King were guilty of any great sin, uncapable of ruling, suspected of heresy, or a favourer of heretiques? were it not the ready way to furnish the ambition of strangers with a pretext for entring upon and invading the Nation, when and as often as they

would, or had power so to do? Besides, what appearance of any reason were there to tollerate so dangerous at enent, and which all the Fathers of antiquity have condemned as erroneous, & which too was but now late risen up again, in these last ages, and in the time of Gregory the seventh, who first attempted to make it vallid? The King never ceaseth to be King, until he be deposed by him, who first consti∣tuted him to be King, or unlesse he falls under those conditions which his first Con∣stitutor hath declared should be the means he would use to throw him down from his authority; Our Kings are only appointed by the hand of God: He hath made use of their courages to set the Crown upon their heads, and God hath not appoin∣ted, that either Apostasie, Heresie, or any other Crime should be the condition, which should shake them out of their Authority, for that both good and bad do equally raign, as we have heretofore said, and by consequence they cannot be deposed but by God himself; nor can they be deprived of their Authority, for any crime whatever. Besides, if they could be deposed by Popes; it would necessarily follow that the Pope must be superior to them in Temporal Power, for that such deposing must needs be the Act of a superior Iurisdiction, now the Popes are so far from being above them in this particular, that rather on the contrarie the most ingenious and able writers of antiquity have confessed that they are inferior to them. Pope Gelasius writ to the Emperor Anastasius, Polagius the first to Childebert, one of our Kings, and St. Gregory to the Emperor Mauritius, and that in such express terms that their meaning cannot be questioned; The most mo∣derate of them who uphold this error, cannot maintain against these reasons, the power of dispossing Kings, which they ascribe to the Pope; they say indeed it is not an absolute and direct power that they have, and that they do not so much excer∣cise it in despoyling them from commanding, as in dispensing their subjects from their oathes of allegiance which they had made to them; But how frivolous is this evasion? For the Popes cannot dispense with divine right, and the obedience from subjects to their Princes is commanded by divine right in an hundred express places of Holy writ; But I shall passe farther on, and say that it is not in the power of a King to bring himself under such a condition, as that their subjects can be discharged from their duties and oathes, by any means or way whatsoever, for they may not do any Act which is prejudicial to the Regal Authority, entrusted in their hands, but they are bound to leave it entire, not maymed to their successors. Whence it hapned that Philip the Long, intending to make a Treaty with his subjects of Flanders, granted to them for their security of his observing the league, that they might rise against him, and withdraw themselves from his obedience, if he should faile in that which did belong to him or his part, but he was hindred by those of his counsel, who represented to him, that it was unlawful for him to make any such condition.

The subtil means which the Cardinal used to joyne the Princes of the lower Saxony, into a league with the Auseatique towns against the house of Austria.

THough Peace was very necessary for France, yet it was no lesse needfull to prevent the rising of the house of Austria, in Germanie, which had usurped the Lands of divers Princes there and oppressed their liberties, especially since the Treaty of Ʋlm. For the same reason it was that the King of great Brittaine sen∣ding Count Mansfeld with an Army, to endeavour the restablishment of his Bro∣ther in Law the Palatine, his Majesty ayded him with two thousand Horse and a good summe of mony, but these Forces were not enough, to oppose those of the Emperor, but it was requisite to send more and greater; England would have en∣gaged the King to have joyned in an Offensive league, and declared the war against him, but it was improbable his Majesty would hearken to such proposals, for that affairs were not in a condition fit for such an attempt, so they were rejected: But

the Prudence of Monsieur the Cardinal, which is never deficient in the finding out expedients fit for the greatness his Master, and did give life and heat to that designe which the Princes of Germany, had heretofore resolved on, of putting themselves into the field, in defence of their liberty, and for the restablishing of those, who had been forced out of their States.

The King, who hath a most admirable apprehension to Judg of those counsels which are given, quickly conceived the goodness of this, and in order therunto he sent about the end of the year, last part, the Sieur de la Picardiere, to the King of Denmark, the Princes of the Lower Saxany and the Auseatique Citties; His in∣structions were to represent to the King of Denmark, and those other Princes, that the King his Master did hear with much joy their resolution to take up Arms, for the establishing of the Prince Elector and his Brothers, and to repel those menaces wherewith they were threatned, and the ancient friendship, which had al∣wayes kept their States in good Union, obliging his Majesty to be sollicitous, of their Interests, had induced him to send a proffer unto them, of what ever was within his power. They had beseeched his Majesty, not to engage himself in any league with Germany, without giving them notice of it, which he had not only order to assure them of, but also to promise them, the summe of a Million of livures in two years time, and French Troops besides. He had moreover express order to excite them to a quick dispatch, because experience hath made it evident on a thousand occasions, that the successe of most enterprises doth usually depend upon the rea∣dy and dexterous excecuting of them, and that when as much time is taken in deli∣beration, the most favourable oportunities are lost by it. But these reasons were needless, for by that time that he came to them, he found them with their Arms in their hands, and the King of Denmark had already sent some Forces by Sea, to joyne with those of the other Princes, who began to threaten the Empeour, and forced him to send Count Tilly to advance towards them for the opposing of their designs: Yet he did not a little heighten their resolution, setting them on, by pro∣posing to them what a glory it would be to them, to restablish their Allyes, and also by telling them with oportunities of advantage, they had against the Emperours Forces who were but weake, and much dispersed, by reason of the warres in Italy and the Valtoline, whereas their Army was fresh, and numerous, and all their Forces met in a Body together. He had particular order not to demand any thing in pre∣judice of the Catholiques, His Majesty having no other end in his intentions, but the setling the Liberties of Germany and the restating of those Princes. Who had been clapt out of their States; And whereas of lower Saxony is composed of several Auseatique Citties, as well as Princes, which Towns and Citties were no lesse against the war, then the Princes were for it, by reason their Traffick was into Spain, and they much suspected, least if they should declare against the house of A••stria, the Spaniard would then stop their Ships and break their Trade; He was commanded to visit them in his progresse, and to perswade them, to associate themselves with the Princes in the league, as also to contribute toward the mainte∣nance of the Army, and to represent to them that in case they should refuse to joyne in the designe, they would then run a very great hazard, least the King of Denmark fall upon them, who had an old grudg to them, and only wanted such a pretence to be upon them, especially now that he had his Arms in his hand: and that if he should be to weak to force them, he might however easily enough ruin their Trade particularly that of Danzik and Lub••c, and of other places too by stop∣ping up the straight of the Zound by which their Ships must necessarily passe, and also that of Hambourg and Breme, by building some Forts on the Rivers Elve and Vezel, which do belong unto him; That in case such a misfortune should befal them, all their Allyes, would undoubtedly abandon them; That the King of Spain could not assist them, he being to far off, that he had not one Ship upon that Sea, and that as for himself and the King of great B••itt••ige, they could not in conside∣ration of the King of ••en••ark, take care or notice, to hinder the Hollanders from seizing on their vessels between Calis and Dover, which should make any voyadge

into Spain, which being so their Commerce would be for ever ruined and decayed; so that it would bee much better for them to league themselves with the Princes, which if he should do his Majesty would undertake their protection against all their enemies, and that the King of England, and Hollanders too would give them the same assistance: These were the chief Instructions which the Sieur de la Picardier re∣ceived, and all which he effected with so great judgement and good successe, that he he went not from them untill he had seen their Army march into the field, and per∣swaded the Auseatique Towns, to joyn in League with the Princes. This was not a work of small importance; for the resolution of this Enterprize, was one of the chief motives which induced the Spaniards to conclude the Treaty of Mouson, for∣ced them to abandon the Valtolin••, and to relinquish the designs, which they had in Italy, and leave all the rest of the Allies of France remain in peace and quiet. His Majesty testified to him that he was well pleased with his conduct and management of the businesse, for carrying on to that perfection, the design of uniting the Au∣seatique Towns and the Princes of Germany, and accordingly his Majesty sent them Troops and Forces and such monies as he had ingaged to them, as also to keep an Army of twelve or fifteen thousand men upon the Frontiers of Campaign, to in∣gage some part of the Emperours forces to stay in Alsatia, by which means he might give the more advantage to those of the League, who did in the revolution of the year, make a great progresse by this means against the Emperours Armies.

It is the highest peece of Prudence to assault ones enemy by a third Person.

IF it is advantagious for the King to settle a Peace at home in his own Kingdome, it will be no lesse needfull for him to drive on some War among his neighbouring Princes, to the intent that they being forced to defend themselves might be so pre∣vented from attempting any thing against France. It is one of the best peeces of Policy for which Lewis the eleventh is commended in History; for he knowing the designs which the English and the Duke of Bourgogne had contrived against him, did raise them so many new broyls, that he hrought them to an impossibility of ex∣ecuting their wicked intensions against him. Above all this one means ought to be made use of, when as a Soveraign doth once begin to grow so Potent by his Arms, that he becomes terrible by reason of his Victories. The safety of States doth consist in the equality of the neighbouring Princes, and there is great reason of fear, if any one of them shall grow to be too Potent; for that Ambition which is natural to all Princes, cannot well contain it self within bounds when it is once accompanied with Power.

It is the highest point of Wisedome, to assault ones enemy by a third hand, to raise a League against him, in which one is not any thing concerned; but onely to contribute some monies, or send some Troops thither, which may be as occasion serves disowned; for is not this the way to obtain the end which a man doth pro∣pose, without any great expence, and without putting any thing in hazard or dan∣ger? An Enemy is sometimes overcome by this way with more advantage, then if the whole force of a State had been imployed against him; at least he will by this means be so busied, that he will not have any time to think of attempting any thing on his neighbours, but rather how he may best defend himself, and yet one is not all this while forced to break with him, but preserveth Peace in his own Country, one is at little or no charge, and the Souldiers will be spent who under go many great inconveniences in strange Countries: The Embassadour who is to negotiate such a Treaty, after he hath resolved upon, and set down this truth for the founda∣tion of his good successe. That Princes have no other motives in their designs then their own particular Interest is obliged, to induce them to whom he is sent to have a good opinion in his Audiences, and to represent all those things and rea∣sons which may further and countenance the design which he would insinnuate and

perswade them to. He ought to let them know, that the Peace in which a great Prince is left, doth raise great suspicions, and serves to no other end, but onely to augment his Force, and establish his Power, that not long after he may attempt new designs. That many Princes have in fine been ruined by being two great Lo∣vers of the Sweets of Peace: That it is much better to prevent an Enemy, then to stay in expectation of him; by which means he may be taken unprovided, and consequently be the easilier ruined, whereas staying for him, will give the lesse abi∣lities to our selves for our defences, by letting him take what advantages he plea∣seth against us: That those who love quiet in an over great measure, do never sub∣sist long; for it is to their enemies a most evident sign of little courage, and lesse resolution, to repulse any attempts which may be made upon them: That nothing is more shamefull then a Peace which giveth way to our enemies, to fortifie them∣selves for the commencing a War, and that he who neglecteth first to fall on them, when he hath reason on his side, both but adde to their Insolences and Courages: That a false glosse of Peace, will at last deprave into a base and true servitude: That after all, it will be easie for them to vanquish and overcome their enemies, if they will joyn and unite their Forces; for by every ones contributing the to War, they will have a greater power, and with lesse charge then their enemies: That it will be very honourable and glorious for them to have curbed his Ambition, whose Arms begin to strike a terrour into all the World; and by thus insinuating to them the glory, utility and facility of the design, they cannot but let themselves be per∣swaded to ingage in it with a great deal of readinesse and affection.

Combinations of divers Grandees of the Court against the King and State.

IT is as impossible long to keep France in quiet, as to prevent the agitation of the Sea by Winds. The humour of the French is full of Action, and they are no soo∣ner clear of one broyl or War, but they are desirous of beginning another. The Cardinal had used his utmost indeavour to settle the Kingdome in quiet, but divers young Princes and Lords of the Court, not able to relish the sweetnesse of such a Calm, did still ingage it in some new Commotions. Peace indeed did not so much grate upon their humours, as the cause which gave it, which was nothing else, but the Authority with which his Majesty dispatched the Affairs of the Realm, and the necessities which he layed upon them to live within the limits of their duties: Now as they had much adoe to submit after they had many years lived in an intire licenti∣ousnesse, they resolved to employ all their indeavours to shake off the yoke. The most expert amongst them, acquainted the rest how the Cardinal was the man, who had perswaded his Majesty to take this power into his own hands; whence if fol∣lowed that they layed their heads together and contrived, how they might bring him into some disgrace, or remove him by what means soever it were from the Stern. As their design was extravagant, so the wayes which they proposed to ac∣complish it were extreamly difficult. They despaired of doing any good upon the Kings mind towards it, for that he was too clear sighted, not to be mindfull of those signal advantages which he had received from the sage advices of this great Mini∣ster, and too too indulgent of his States good, to deprive it of so prudent a supporter; so that they concluded there remained onely 2 ways, proper to attain their end. The first was to put all things into confusion, & then to force the Scepter out of the Kings hand, by which means they might bring things to that passe, that they might have none above them, but God to Pray too. The other was to form so powerful a Party a∣mongst the Princes, that they might be able to give the Law to his Majesty, to con∣strain him to banish the Cardinal, and to compel him to be ruled by their directions. This Cabal consisted of a great many persons, which as it could not be done but with a multitude, so there wanted not some who spake very rashly of it: There were di∣vers reports spreadabroad of what they intended, which were published, though whisperingly, with a great deal of insolency, and at the same time it was known

that a Favourite of Buckingham's, said openly in England, That there was so great a Faction contriving against the King, and carried on by Monsieurs Councellours, that all the Catholicks of the Queens house might be driven out without any dan∣ger, and Heretiques placed in their room, though contrary to the Articles of mar∣riage. There were some two of the Bourbonnois ingaged in this Combination, who talked so openly and confidently, that notice being given of it to the King and his Ministers; it was adjudged that they intended to carry things to extremity, and that it would not be much amiss to give Commission of Enquiry to the Vice-Se∣neschal of the Bourbonnois, to make enquiry of the truth, who gave a great light of the whole matter, by his informations. It was likewise discovered that Madam de Che••••reuse, being discontented that her private intelligences with the English Embassadour were so publickly taken notice of, did not a little promote the un∣dertakings, by her animating of Monsieur the Grand Prior, and Chalais to execute it; both which were ingaged by love to her; as also that the Colonel de Ornano, abusing Monsieurs goodnesse, and the credit which his place gave him, did abso∣lutely divert him from the marriage which his Majesty had so earnestly desired should be celebrated.

The Cardinal on the other side having been acquainted that Louvgry who was one of the cabal, being deeply in love with a Lady of quality; had discovered to her the summe of their design, and amongst other things had assured her, that Chalais was one of the chief instruments in the enterprise, he resolved to go passe away some time at Chailliot, in Chalais father in Laws house, that he might the better make use of his prudence to discover more particulars of the business. His design took effect, and as there are few things in his wish which the greatness of his prudence cannot accomplish, it is said that he found a device to learn several things from Chalais own mouth, and that he assured him both of his own assistance and his Majesties favour in case he should do that which was desired of him in this busi∣ness of discovery. He likewise found out how the Colonel d' Ornano, was the Ringleader of the Plot, hurried into it by like for fear lest if Mounsieur should marry, his Princesse would assume to her self, those advantages which he then had over his Spirit; That their chief end was to unite all the Princes so close together that they might enforce his Majesty, not to remove any of them from the Court, and with all to permit them to live in the same licentiousness that they had a long while formerly enjoyed; That to this effect, they endeavoured the brea∣king of the match between Monsieur and Madamoiselle de M••ntpensier, and to bring on that of Madamoiselle de Bourbon, which would more neerly ingage Mon∣sieur to their Interests; or else to perswade him to marry some other stranger Prin∣cesse, which might be a means to shelter, and defend their designs by the Forces and assistances which they might reasonably expect from such a family. That this once effected, they intended the Count de Soissons should marry Madamoiselle de Montpensier, that the Houses of Guise and Bourbon might be united together, and in this manner, they would in a moment huddle up together almost all the leading potent persons of Court. It was no small advantage for the Affairs of the State to know that end this Cabal did drive at. The Cardinal was not defective, in acknow∣ledging the services which Chalais had done in that particular, and he might cer∣tainly have made very great advantages by it, had he not relapsed into former contrivances and designs.

Politique Observation.

IT is a very great Imprudence, to ingage in any Faction against the Prince of State, under hope of not being discovered. It cannot be denied, but most ill-doers do believe their disorders will lye concealed; For who would commit them, if he thought he should be detected? But who knoweth not, that there is a cer∣tain blindness which attendeth on sin, like a thick curtain spread over the eyes of the Soul, which obstructeth the seeing such things as are most in themselves perspicuous

and hurrieth the mind into excesse of Rashness? Whosoever will suffer himself to be reduced by the Error, must of necessity be ignorant of what the Son of God hath said in the Gospel, That there is nothing hid which shall not be found out, nor nothing how secret soever, but time shall discover, God who over-ruleth King∣doms, and watcheth for their conservation, will not permit, that those Plots and conspiraces which are contrived against them by some particular persons, should remain concealed; and it oftentimes so fals out, That Justice being guided by his Providence, causeth the very Authour himself to become the discoverer before he be aware of it. All great secret is a great Burthen to the Bearer, and experience hath often shewed, that it is almost impossible, for a man to keep it any long time without disburthening his Breast of it: If perchance a man hath the power to bridle his tongue from discovering it, yet can he never forbear the discovery of it, by some Actions, which will speak it to those of understanding. And truly it seem God permitteth it so to be for the glory of innocence, under whose Laws, few would enforce themselves to live, if Treachery had discretion enough to conceale it self.

Aristole, did judiciously answer him, who demanded what was the most diffi∣cult thing in the World? when he said, that it was to conceal that which was not fit to be made known; since no man could be thought capable of keeping a secret, but he who could indure a burning Coal upon his Tongue. Indeed whatever is once known to three persons, is quickly after made common to all; for that each of them having an itching desire to speak of, relateth it to his friend, and so from one to another it comes to be published. According to which, History too hath recoreded many wicked designs closely contrived, yet at length brought unto light.

Plutarch saith, that in the Cyprian War one Aristocrates chief of the Messe∣nians, was the cause of their being cut in peeces by a notable peece of Treasons, in∣to which the desire of rule had ingaged him, and that twenty years after it pleased God to permit his wickednesse to be found out, and himself severely punished; and it were needlesse to produce any the like examples, for that History is full of them,

The Marshal of Ornano Arrested at Fountainbleau, and carried Prisoner to the Castle of Bois de Vincennes.

••T were a dangerous folly to give them who contrive against the State, time to execute their designs. Accordingly the King resolved with advice of his Coun∣cel to secure the Ring-leaders of the conspiracy, yet still pretending ignorance both of the persons and their intentions. He had been ever since the beginning of the Spring at Fountainbleau, not so much for his recreation, as because it was ea∣sier to dive into the bottome of those Intreagues in such little Towns then at Paris, the vastnesse and confusion of which is sufficient to hide and shelter the greatest wickednesses. The whole Court attended him, and the cheef of that Faction fai∣led not to be there. But his Majesty needed no other witnesse then his own eyes to discover their frequent meetings, nor other proofs but his own ears to convince the Marshal de Ornano to be the chief of that Cabal, and of the extream Passion that they had to hinder Monsieurs match by his frequent discoursing with his Ma∣jesty whole hours together upon that Subject. He was not ignorant, that Princes were jealous of no one thing more, then of their own authority, and upon that ground it was, that he principally indeavoured to incite the King, by making him be∣leeve, that those who perswaded him to marry Monsieur were not very affectionate to his service, that this marriage of Monsieur would quickly raise him up Children, and as soon as hee should have a Male, every one would consider him as a ri∣sing Sun, that the Grandees would forsake his Majesty to follow him, and that he would soon find a power set up in the State, able to confront his own Authority.

This Artifice was subtle, and fitted to cast a Myst before his Majesties eyes, had he not been before hand well informed of his design; and if after mature considera∣tion of the reason, he had not concluded it of lesse consequence then the breaking of his wicked devices. His importunities the true witnesses of his excessive Passi∣on, made his Majesty conclude that it was not safe any longer to defer the secu∣ring of his Person, and he thought it so much the more necessary, from the rule which he had learned in Tacitus, that for the hindering the progresse of a Conspi∣racy against the State, it would be needfull to make sure of the cheef; because most commonly all the others are then left with as little motion, as the Members of the body, after the head is once cut off; besides imprisoning of him, Monsieur too was in a manner secured; accordingly his Majesty returning from hunting up∣on the fourth of May, gave command to some Companies of his Life-guard, to beset the wayes between Fountain-bleau and Paris, to seize upon those of the Ca∣bal, if they should indeavour to save themselves by flight; in fine, his Majesty cau∣sed him to be Arrested by the Sieur de Hallire Captain of his Guard, he was im∣prisoned in the Castle, and from thence guarded to the Bois de Vincennes, where a few moneths after he died of a stoppage in the Bladder.

In the mean while his Majesty, who never speaks openly any one sillable, which may be of consequence in affairs, kept close the reasons which obliged him to re∣strain him, neither did he shew any coldnesse in his carriage to his Complices, as well that he might prevent their running into extremities, and oblige them to quit them∣selves of wicked designs; as also that hee might have an opportunity to seize on Monsieur de Vendosm, who was suspected to be of that party, his Majesty was plea∣sed to signifie to the Queen his Mother, that he had imprisoned him by reason of-some broyls he had intended to raise between him and his Brother: Monsieur having notice of it, went presently to wait upon the King, who assured him of the truth of it, and told him the same reason which he had sent the Queen his Mo∣ther; to which Monsieur answered, that if he should be convinced of the truth of it, he would be the first that should prosecute Justice against him; but withall, that it were proper to consider whether his enemies had not made this contrivance against him; but he could not contain himself upon this occasion, as in divers others from testifying his displeasure at it.

Politique Observation.

••T is expedient after the discovery of a Conspiracy, to wink at those who are guilty, for the better preventing of them, and seising on their chief instruments: The reason is, because they soon draw their necks out of the Collar, if they have the least suspicion of being detected; and sometimes so fortifie themselves, that it becomes almost impossible to hinder the execution of their intentions, or to secure their persons. Lewis the eleventh was very dexterious in this particular, as Philip de Consinus relates in several places of his History, particularly in the reception he gave the Constable of St. Paul, when he came to him near Noyon in the year one thousand four hundred seventy three, he received him with so many endearments, and gave him so many fair words, that the Constable thought himself bound to beleeve him. The King dissembled for two years together, the hatred which hee bore unto him, because his other affairs did not concur with his resolution of cha∣s••ising him; but at last he cut off his head, it is likewise reported, that hee would let his son Charles the eighth, learn any other Latine then the Proverb, Qui nescit dissimulare, nescit regnare, so much did he esteem dissimulation to be a quality ne∣cessary in a Prince, which amongst private men passeth most commonly for a Vice. The wise Fowler spreadeth not his Nets for one or two Birds, but expects until the whole flight, or the greatest part of them light together, that he may take a great many at once; and so a wise Prince who would secure himself of the chief heads of a Conspiracy, knows well how to dissemble with them, till such time as occasion presents it self, that he may snap them all together, or at least those without whom

the rest are not able to attempt any thing considerable, that he may bring in prac∣tice the saying of Seneca the Tragedian, that hee who takes notice of a Conspi∣racy before the Complices bee imprisoned, looseth the occasion of punishing them.

The Cardinal beseecheth the King to permit his retirement from the Court.

THE Soul of Monsieur the Cardinal did like the Palm undergo with Courage all those burthens which were imposed upon him, neither was he much moved at those pernicious contrivances, though he knew his own ruine was the principal which they aimed at. However to remove all pretences which his enemies might raise to asperse him. That his fortune was built upon the losse of divers men of quality, if they should be punished according to their deserts, and to take off any pretext for their making of Factions in the State, should they but arrive to the end which they proposed to themselves, he resolved to beseech the King to give him leave to retire himself from the Court. He could not be reproached for this Act without injustice, seeing the discontent of all those Factious persons was onely grounded upon the Power, Authority, and Glory, which he had acquired for his Master, and the good Order and Government which he had established in the State. Great and Noble Souls, cannot endure that Envy her self should have the least occasion to detract from their Glory; and accordingly, he testified to the whole Nation, that he did not at all consider his own Interests. Now that hee might the easilier obtain his request of with-drawing himself, and that he might the better dispose his Majesty to grant it, he entreated the King being then at Foun∣tainbleau, that he would give him leave to passe away some few days at Limours, by reason of some indisposition, which he found growing upon him, which the King gave way to, and being there, he was visited by Monsieur, what resentments soever he had for the Marshal de Ornano's imprisonment, as also by Monsieur the Prince of Condy, whom he had perswaded the Queen Mother to Caresse; not∣withstanding all her aversions from it, that he might ingage him in his Majesties in∣terests, and divert him from taking part with those of the Cabal. From thence it was, that Monsieur the Cardinal writ to his Majesty, beseeching him, that he would be pleased to let him withdraw himself. He presented to him, that for his own part he never had any other designs in his service, then his glory and the good of his State; but was now extreamly much discontented to find the Court divided upon his occasion, and the fire of dissention ready to flame out, and all with design for his ruine. That he would little esteem his life, if imployed in his Majesties service, and for the good of his Crown; but that it could not but trouble him, to see him∣self basely Butchered in the midst of the Court, as it was almost impossible for him to avoid it, he being every day attended by a multitude of men, whom he knew not, and not having any one near him, who could defend him from any violence which might be offered to him, that in case his Majesties pleasure were such, that he would command him to continue neer him, and in this danger he would most gladly obey him without the least repugnancy, because there was not any thing which he would prefer before his Majesties Will. But the confidence he had that his Majesty could not take any delight to behold him, ending his dayes by such a death, to which he could not be exposed, but his Majesty must remain injured and offended; did ob∣lige him to think good to retire himself from the Court. He added, that his want of health too which was much impaired, by that great concourse of people, with which he was dayly over-pressed; did make him beleeve, he could not long hold out in the management of Affairs, and that his Majesty had so much the more reason to grant him his request, in regard his weaknesse would in a little while make him use∣lesse in his service.

He writ to the same effect unto the Queen Mother, and begged her to imploy her

Power with his Majesty to obtain his requests. But their Majesties were so far from having the least inclination to admit of his retirement; that on the contrary, the King openly declared, he would never give his consent to it, he being sensible enough of those great happinesses which he had procured to the Kingdom alrea∣dy, of that credit and esteem, which he had raised his Arms unto amongst stran∣gers, of the submission to which he had reduced the Heretiques, of the good Or∣der which he had established in the Treasuries, and of the great height whereunto he had advanced the Authority of his Scepter. The Queen Mother too, conside∣ring over and above these reasons which were not unknown to her what a losse it is to a State, to be deprived of a grand Minister, how usefull the Cardinal was to her Counsels and Interests, at the same instant resolved to oppose his removal, so that it was by their common advices concluded to command him, no longer to think of absenting himself, and to let him know that his services were too well known, to procure an assent for his departure; and lastly, that he need not be af∣flicted at the sense of those wicked designs which were contrived against him, nor at the inconveniences which he suffered in point of health, for that it were easie to remedy both one and t'other. Monsieur the Cardinal who prefers nothing in re∣spect of their Majesties will and pleasure, submitted all his resolutions accordingly. The King too, that he might provide for the safety both of his life and health, as∣signed Guards to him, who were to wait on him every where, and defend him from any attempts of his enemies, he commanded the Sieur de Folain, to have an especial care, that his health were not prejudiced by the multitude of people who made addresses to him, but that entrance were onely permitted unto such as had occasion to speak with him, about some urgent Affairs. These Provisions of the King were so many certain testimonies of the good Will, which his Majesty did bear towards him, and I think that the honour he got in this Action, was more considerable then all the rest; for by it he evinced to the whole Nation, that hee was not tied to the Court; but onely for his Majesties service, and that his own par∣ticular intrests and concerns were not valued at all by him.

Politique Observation.

IT is impossible to prevent that the splendour of an extraordinary vertue, ho∣noured by a Prince with a great power, should not raise up the Envy of those who have never so little Ambition in them. The Sun doth not more naturally attract divers vapours from the earth, which afterwards become Clouds and darken his light, then a grand Minister doth ordinarily see his own merit, and the great∣nesse of his Genius draw upon him the hatred of the Grandees, that they make use of factions and divisions against him. We have elsewhere said, that Fortune was never yet seen to defend them from this infelicity, and I shal now adde that the cheef and ready way for great men to exempt themselves from the blame and the troubles which envy may stir up against them, is to manifest, that their medling in affairs of Publique concern, is free from all manner of self-interest, which may easily be done, by their desiring to withdraw themselves from the trouble of Go∣vernment, to lead a private life. This moderation will stop the mouths of the most imbittered men, who after this, cannot find any thing to object against the power wherewith they are honoured, and are forced to convert their hatred into admiration. Lucullus finding that the glory of his Triumph, had laid him open to the hatred of some leading men in the Common-wealth, withdrew himself from the management of Publick affairs, to spend the time in studying of Arts; but he was instantly intreated by the wiser sort, not to follow his own inclinations in that particular, and at such a time, for it was not unknown, that he was only able to curb the ambition of Pompey. And Augustus (as Suetonius reporteth) did often de∣sire to quit the Empire, when he found how difficult it was to deal with the people of Rome. The Pope St. Gregory the Great, in the like manner, knowing that the course of his life, did offend many persons, who could not indure that his exam∣ple

should oblige them to live retiredly and reservedly, and had designed to chuse another Pope in his place, he declared to them; that he for his part should be ve∣ry much afflicted to find any storms arise in the Church upon his score, and that he would much more willingly surrender the Government, then see any Schism arise amongst them. But this his modesty and humility, represented him so venerable a person, that those very men, who did not resent his Government, were obliged to acknowledge the greatnesse of his worth. Lastly, although it be commendable in a great States man to make shew of such moderation, to the end he may silence that Envy to which he is exposed; yet a King is bound to make some difficulty in ascenting to his retirement, on such an occasion. No Counsel can better bee followed, then that of the wise man (who said) he who hath found a faithfull servant, ought to cherish him like his Soul, and to esteem him as a brother; and it cannot be denied, but that to deprive a Kingdome of the assistance and guidance of a Soul highly generous and understanding, were to take away the Sun from it, and to fill it with horrour and confusion.

The Imprisonment of the Duke de Vendosm, and the Grand Prior of France his Brother, at Blois.

IT had been little to the purpose, barely to have imprisoned the Marshal de Or∣nano, if some others too of the chief Complices had not been secured, and es∣pecially, the Grand Prior, who was much to be feared, he being a person of grea∣ter abilities to carry on a design then all the rest. His Brother too, the Duke of Vondosm was not to be neglected, considering the intelligence which his Majesty had but newly received of his indeavours, to withdraw the people from the obedi∣ence which they owe to his Crown: That he had caused himself to be called Mon∣sieur the Duke without any other Title: That he had commanded this form of Prayer to be used in the Church, Pro famulo tuo duce, domino nostro: That he had sundry times attempted by money to corrupt the Sieur de Cange, then Lievtenant of the Castle of Nants: That he felt the Pulse of the Nobility, the Parliament, and Chamber of Accompt, that he might the better fortifie himself in the Province; an intelligence which ought so much the more to be looked into, in regard two brothers do not usually enter upon any great design, but by a joynt consent; that some pretensions they might have (though weak ones) upon Britain, and that nothing doth sooner ingage great men in the Factions of a Court then Ambition. Now although it was very needfull to arrest him, yet it was difficult to be done in Brittain, by reason of the great Power he held there, so it was thought fit to with∣draw him, and ingage him to wait upon his Majesty upon some pretence or other. No way was imagined to be more expedient for it, then to work upon the Grand Prior, by feeding him with hopes of the Admiralty, concerning which he was to treat with the Sieur de Montmorancy, or at least by perswading him that in case that charge were taken away, as it was then intended, he was the onely man who should have the Commission to discharge that Office.

These Proposals were made to him, with so much addresse, that they made sure of him, and absolutely convinced him that there was not any suspicion in the least of him, and the King going to Blois, where it was not known that he intended to passe on any further, his Majesty told him how glad he should be, that the Duke of Vendosm would come to him, so hee presently tooke upon himselfe to goe to him, and to perswade him to come and pay all signes of obedience ••o his Majesty. Some have said, that hee being doubtfull, lest his Ma∣jesty had already conceived some apprehensions against the Duke of Vendosm, did demand assurance for his bringing him to his Majesty at Blois, and that his Prudence returned such an answer, which though it obliged him to nothing, yet it gave the Grand Prior satisfaction enough to ingage the Duke to undertake the journey. I passe my word to you (quoth the King, as is reported) that he may come to me,

and that he shall have no more hurt done him then your self, though for my part I cannot but much doubt of this particular passage; but true it is he went from the Court and shortly after brought the Duke his Brother with him to Blois, where his Majesty received them with so many, embraces and endearments, that they could not in the least suspect the resolution which was taken for securing of their persons.

Before I proceed to the manner of their being taken. I cannot but observe, how very recessary it is, that the Chief Offices of the administration, be supplied with persons of courage as well as of Integrity, The King sent for the seal to the Lord Chancelor Haligie, the very same day that the Grant Prior went to fetch the Duke of Vendosme. The Honestie of his Minister was not unknown to all the world, but it could not be denied, that his mind was low and full of fear which he did sufficient∣ly make appear▪ wen as upon the taking of the Marshal d'Ornano, he had not the courage to justifie his Majesties counsels in that particular before Monsieur, although the thing it self were one of the most important accidents, that had a long time happened for the good of the State. This passion of timerousness, is a very im∣proper quality in a supream Minister of Justice, who is bound to make head against all wickedness, and not only that, but also to use courage and force to resist and overcome it; this was it which obliged his Majesty to take the seal from him, and to intrust it with the Sieur de Marillac, superintendent of the treasury, whose loyaltie was then in great credit amongst all well affected men, and who had testified a great deal of resoluteness in the dispatch of those affairs which presented them∣selves unto him. The super-intendency was bestowed on the Monsieur d'Effiat, whose judgment and discret conduct was well known in sundry occasions, particu∣larly in the late affair of the Match with England. But that I may now return, to the two Brothers, who were come to wait on this Majesty at Bloys, his Majesty be∣ing retired to his bed, sent about two howers after mid night to find out the Sieurs d'Hallier and the Marquis de Moicy, Captains of his Guards, and commanded them to go into their Chambers, and make sure of their persons; accordingly they seized on them and it is reported that, the Duke of Vendosm, beginning first to speak should say, looking on his Brother, well Brother, did not I tell you in Britain, that we should be arrested? and that the Grand Prior should answer, would I were dead, upon con∣dition you were safe there again, and then that the Duke should reply. I told you the truth when I said the Castle of Blois was a place fatal to Princes. They then made a thousand excuses, each telling the other that he was the cause of their im∣prisonment, and that they themselves confessed, that they were advised that even∣ing by a letter how they should be imprisoned, but that they could not believe it. That whole morning, they had liberty to disburthen their miracles by their com∣plaints, of the misfortune in which they found themselves imbroyled. Afterward they were carried to the Castle of Amboyse, and thence to the Bois de Vincennes. This blow gave the allarum to the whose Cabal, though his Majesty who would content himself with punishing of some few, pretended to be ignorant of the rest: He also sent a commission to the Count de Soissons, to command during his absence in and about Paris, for the securing of it. It's true he would not trust himself there, but chose rather to passe away, some little time either in Savoy or Italy. A cer∣tain Princess took the boldness to say unto some who went to visit her that notwith∣standing the assurance, which the King had given to the Grand Prior, in behalf of his Brother the Duke of Vendosm, yet that both of them were arrested; which did clearly evince, that those were near his Majesty did perswade him to break his pro∣mises; which being reported to the King, it is said he was pleased to answer, that the was not well informed of the whole passage, and that he was not concerned to entertain such discourse, for that if they knew themselves innocent, they would never have thought of demanding a security to come and wait upon him: and that who so doeth require an assurance for his attending on his Soveraign, doeth in effect condemn himself to be guilty, and that the promises which are made on such an occasion ought not to be his warrant, unlesse they be very clear and expresse to that purpose.

Politique Reflection.

ALthough all absolute promises which are made by Kings, ought to be kept, and that even with seditious persons; yet it is not the same thing, where a divers sence may be imposed on them, or where there is an apparent good will shewed on purpose to draw them on into a snare prepared to arrest them. To punish them and hinder their troubling the repose of the Kingdom, cannot be denied for an Act of Justice, which if it cannot be done but by giving them fair hopes and good words to a muse them, then such means are to be made use of accordingly, provided alwayes, that there be no expresse promise granted unto them. King Antigonus having understood how that Pitho Governour of Media, did raise Soul∣diers, and money, to revolt against him; pretended not to believe those informa∣tions, but gave out, that he would send him an Army to command upon some ex∣ploit or other, designing that Pitho when he once heard how affectionately he was esteemed, would peradventure come to wait upon him; which indeed hapned ac∣cordingly, for he presently repaired to the Court, shewing himself highly pleased with the Honour which the King did him, and that he came on purpose to receive his Majesties Commands, whereas Antigonus finding him within his power chasti∣ced him according to his deserts.

Pope Leo, made use of the self same device, to imprison John Paul Baylloni and to punish him for those Crimes which he had committed, and he answered those who complained of being deceived by his promises, that evil doers could not think themselves deceived; when they were chasticed for their fals, but that they were deceived, when as there were permitted to continue Scot free in their Crimes, and when their liberties and lives, of which they were unworthy were continued and granted to them. The proceeding of Artaxerxes King of the Persians towards Artaban is not improper to be remembred on this occasion. This Prince having un••e••s••ood how the other had contrived to kill him, and seize upon his Kingdom, resolved to prevent him; but he being cunning and alwayes well guarded, he had recourse to his wit dissembled the suspition which he had against him, and that so handsomly that Artabanus, imagined himself to stand very right in his opinion; To compleat his designe, he gave out that he intended a certain forraign invasion, and gave him order to levy his Troops, and draw them together, which being all assem∣bled, Artaxerxes desired to see them mustered in his own presence, and comming up to him in the head of his Forces, seemed to be much taken with the handsomness of his Arms, and desired to make an Exchange with him, Artaban finding himself obliged to put them off, forth with disarnied himself, and presented them to the King, who seeing him naked would not loose that opportunity, but fell on him, and killed him with his own hand. I know there are some Politicians, who are of opinion that there need not any great care be taken concerning performance of promises, nay not those which are absolute and expresse, though made by Princes in the way of assurance and security; and that it is sufficient for them to answer those who shall complain of the breach of them, as Agesilaus did a friend, who taxed him upon a promise, which he afterwards had found to be unreasonable. If what you demand be Just, I have promised it, but if it be unjust, I am not obliged to be as good as my word, and when he was answered that a Prince, ought to perform whatever he promiseth, yes Quoth he, and a subject ought not to request any thing of his Soveraign which is unreasonable. But for my particular I am of opi∣nion, that a Prince is obliged inviolably to observe all expresse promises, and that it is only permited to his Ministers for Justice sake to be lesse then their words. I should rather imagine that a Prince should on such occasions make use of all vio∣lent means, rather then delusions, because Force is reputed for a vertue, when backed by authority, and nothing can be alleadged against it; whereas deceipt can∣not be taken for any other thing, then a kind of mallice unbecoming the Majesty of a Soveraign.

The Assembly of the States at Nantes the King being present.

UPon the Duke of Vendosm's imprisonment, it was mistrusted least divers per∣sons, whom he had won to his Interests in Brittain might stir up some Com∣motion with hopes to enforce the King to grant him his liberty; but as his Maje∣sties presence only was sufficient, to deprive them both of the means and liberty to do so, he went to Nantes, and shortly after summoned all the States to meet there, where such as were any wayes suspected were not suffered to appear. The King was pleased to be personally present at their first Assembly, and the Lord keeper gave them to understand, that his Majesties design, was only to consider of what means and wayes were most proper for setling the peace of that Province, which was the principal thing there debated, and at last it was so happily concluded by the Kings Authority, and the Prudent conduct of the Marshal de Themines, (to whom his Majesty had committed the Government of it upon the Duke of Vendosm's imprisonment) that there did not any difficulties arise in it. The chief means to settle all was to disarm such as were suspected, and to deliver them to others who were known to be right and honest. To destroy some strong places, many of which belonged to the Duke of Vendosme, and served only to countenance a revolt. Which being thus ended, The King began to debate with the Queen Mother and his Counsellours, whether it were proper to marry Monsieur or not; for that was one of the main pretexts of the Cabal, who had endeavoured to possesse Monsieur with the opinion, That having no other liberty or freedome, he might chuse his own wife, and in that particular follow his own inclinations; but it was easie to undeceive him, by laying before him, how the liberty incident to Marriages was civil, that it is ordered by the Laws of the Kingdome, which do prohibit any Prin∣ces to marry themselves, without the Kings consent, and that he for his part could not do better then to be governed by the King, who loved him very dearly, and would undoubtedly match him, which such a person as would be most proper for him. Divers reasons were urged both of the one and t'other part, all sorts of In∣terests were considered with great deliberation, and all the consequences incident upon his marrying or not marrying, were examined to the full, and in conclusion the King of his own motion said, he indeed apprehended several reasons which were sufficient to take him off from any thoughts of marrying him, but with all that the Quiet of his State, seeming to oblige him to marry him, he resolved to do accor∣dingly: That his intentions in it being good, he could not but hope Heaven would blesse it with good successe; and in case the enemies of the publique Peace should attempt to raise contrary effects out of it, that he had power enough in his hand to remedy and defend it.

It is reported, That Monsieur the Cardinal, did only represent to his Majesty those reasons, which might seem either to invite or disswade the marrying of him, without inclining more to the one then to the other, as well because he knew his Majesty to be prudent enough, and not to want any advices in what did so neerly concern the power of his Authority, as also because it was a business in which his Majesty ought to follow his own will and pleasure, and was not obliged to conclude off or on but with his own satisfaction and content, it is very dangerous to second too strongly such counsels, whose effects are lyable to the changes of Fortune, and it were a great folly for a man to think himself safe and sure, of that, which is often perverted by the wickedness of some men, who by it raise advantages to them∣selves.

At last it being generally resolved, the Queen mother passionately desirous, that Monsieur should marry Madamoiselle de Montpensier, sent to Madam de G••ise, to come forthwith to Nantes, and to bring her with her, as also she presently pro∣posed to execute those Articles which had been so long since concluded on. This Princesse, who indeed was the richest match of France, had been betrothed to the late Duke of Orleans, in the year one thousand six hundred & eight, whilst the King

was then living, and the young Prince dying about the year one thousand six hun∣dred and eleven, both the King and Queen Mother, had pass'd their words to marry her to Monsieur who was to succeed in the quality of Duke of Orleans. Both being now of an age fit to be married; Madam de Guise did oftentimes urge that the promises which had been made to her, might be performed, and Monsieur who had alwayes preserved himself, in a total resignation of his own to the Kings will, was the more easily induced to effect it, in regard of those most excellent qualities wherewith Heaven had blessed both the Person and mind of that Princesse; but however, the liberty which is usually permitted to Princes of his age, did allay the over hasty execution of it neither did his Majesty presse it, until he had discovered by the dangerousness of the Cabal, that one of the onely means to shop the farther progress of them, was to hasten on his marriage. The King did not approve of his marrying any Forraign Princesse, least it might prove an in-let for Factions in the State, and least it might open a dore for strangers to invade the Kingdome, as often as they would raise any discontents to themselves; but he liked well of this Match with Madamoiselle de Montpensier, her Birth and vertue rendring her worthy to be admitted into the Royal family. The Queen Mother, who could not be heartily perswaded to love Monsieur the Prince did not like of the Match between his Daughter Madamoiselle de Bourbonne, and Monsieur, though the Cabal did much drive it on: Withal Madamoiselle de Montpensier being left sole inheritrix of her whole house, was extreamly rich, and would very well serve to make up Monsieurs affairs, as also ease the Exchequer of great Pensions which otherwise must of neces∣sity be bestowed on him. They of the Cabal were vexed at heart, to find things so carried on, but they were necessitated to be quiet and to hold their peaces too▪ Shortly after, the King declared some part of his thoughts to Monsieur, who an∣swered him that if it were his Majesties pleasure to marry him there, he should to∣tally resign himself to his Majesties will; By which and in several other occasion, he hath alwayes shewed, That Heaven did with his birth infuse into him extraordi∣nary respects for the King, which had doubtlesse inseperably linked him to his Ma∣jesty, had not the mallicious devices of those, in whom he placed some confidence diverted him. Monsieur sent M. le Coigneux his Chancellor to Madam de Guise, to assure her of his kindnesses, and particularly of the affection which he had to conclude the Match, between himself and Madamoiselle her daughter, and charging him afterwards to wait upon Madamoiselle de Montpensier, he commanded him to assure her on his behalf, that he would be a better Husband, then he had been a Servant, He was received with a great deal of Honour, both by one and t'other, and with as many testimonies of joy, as the modesty of that sex could allow of, and the next day Madamoiselle de Montpensier going to wait on the Queen Mother, the called her Daughter, and made her sit down neer to her. To conclude, the mar∣riage was celebrated soon after to the quiet and content of the whole Kingdome: And thus the King assisted by the sage counsels of Monsieur the Cardinal, did dispel all those small contrivances which were designed to oppose it, and brought to no∣thing all the Cabals which divers Princes and Lords of Court had projected upon that occasion, both with England, Spain, Holland and some places of Italy, with the Hugonots, nay with the very houshold Servants of his Majesty, and some of them were such as had neerest accesse to his person.

Politique Observation.

THe Marriages of Princes of the Blood ought to be contracted with a great deal of freedome, seeing that liberty is an essential part of marriage; but they ought to be mindful, that this same liberty doth not consist in a power of marrying whom they pleace, and when & upon what terms they think fit. Liberty in general (as Vlpian saith) consisteth barely of a power to do what the Laws do permitt, and speaking more particularly concerning Marriages, he saith; That the Liberty which Lawyers do allow of, can be grounded upon no other thing then the meer power, of contracting

ones self in that manner as the Laws do approve of. And the old Law allowed of none to be legitimate, but such as were conformable to the Laws of the State. Ci∣vil Liberty keeps a medium between those two extremities of servitude and licenti∣ousnesse, and is neither one or t'other of them; for as it hath no absolute depen∣dance upon Slavery; so is it also limited by Laws not to do whatever it shall think fit; it consisteth in a Liberty of doing that which is justifiable by the Law, whence it follows, that the Princes of the Blood in France, being by a fundamental Law pro∣hibited to marry without the Kings permission, they are deprived of the Liberty to conclude any match upon their own heads or power. The great St. Basil saith in the first letter which he writ to Amphilochius, that those contracts which are made by them who are not masters of themselves, ought to be esteemed for void, if not confirmed by the power upon which they depend. But what may bee the reason hereof? It cannot be said that they are not voluntary, for then they could not be termed contracts, which is so evidently clear, that it cannot be denied; but however it is true, they are not concluded with the Civil Freedome, that is, not guided by the Law, and for that reason cannot be accompted valid. The reason of this Custome is grounded upon a Maxime of Law, which saith, what belongeth to us cannot be taken away without our consents, whence it followeth that those who depend upon another, and who have not any thing which doth not belong to those upon whom they depend have not any lawfull power to dispose of themselves, and in case they should do it, it were only an Act of licentiousnesse, and is declared void by Law. Moreover, what St. Basil saith, speaking of Contracts in general; in his first, he doth more particularly set forth, concerning his marriage in his second let∣ter, when he declareth in expresse terms: That such marriages as are made without the Authority of those upon whom they depend are absolute Fornications, of which no other reason can be given then this, that they who contracted themselves did not consent to it with a lawfull power, and that they could not dispose of them∣selves, in regard of their dependency upon a superior Authority. He who is not ma∣ster of himself, cannot give himself to a wife, and it will necessarily follow from thence, that the marriages of the Princes of the Blood of France, cannot be estee∣med valid, when they are not accompanied with their Kings consents, for that they do absolutely depend upon their Majesties.

The Sieur de Chalais is Imprisoned.

I Shall not put an end to this discourse in onely acquainting you with the Mar∣shal de Ornano's imprisonment, or the arresting of the two Brothers, with their confidents Modene and Deagan; for that suddenly after Tronson and Sauveterre were removed from the Court, for having contrived many devices for hindring Monsieurs marriage; as also Marsillac Governour of Sommieres, was sent Pri∣soner to the Castle of Ancennis, for having talked too boldly concerning the same subject: But as the greatest part of all these designs were discovered in the pro∣cesse against Chalais, presently after the finishing of the marriage; so I think it proper to treat more particularly of it. Chalais had the honour to be the Master of the Kings Wardrobe, and to be brought up from his Infancy near his Majesty; but his Soul being over-mastred by ambition, he every where discovered a great dis∣content against fortune, openly saying, that it would be needfull for him to seek out a more liberal Master then the King, if he did intend to better his own condi∣tion; it was thought that this Passion was that which ingaged him in the Faction then at Court, but it is true, that the love which he bore to Madam Cheureuse, did no lesse ingage him in it. The King was informed of his Intreagues from Pa∣ris, and though his Majesty had pardoned him upon the assurances which he had gi∣ven him, and Monsieur the Cardinal; of his future living in loyalty, yet he did not cease to re-embroyl himself, so potent are those two troublesome and giddy Passi∣ons, and so great a power have they over the Souls of those, whom experience hath not well instructed in the affairs of the world.

It was known, that upon the first imprisonment of Monsieur de Vendosm, hee had dispatched a Messenger from Blois to Monsieur and the Count de Soissons, by which he gave them intelligence quite contrary to his Majesties interest and service. The King had good reason to be offended at it, yet his Clemency carried him on to command the Cardinal onely to tell him, that he did run counter to those protesta∣tions of Fidelity which he had formerly made, that his Contrivances were better known then he was aware off, and that he should be carefull of his Actions. Cha∣lais was informed at the same time by others, that the King was angry with him, and finding himself guilty, he desired to discourse with Monsieur the Cardinal to disguise his faults. The Commander de Valenhay, was the person who accompa∣nied him to Beau-regard, where the Cardinal then lay, and being come thither he attempted to surprise the Prudence of that incomparable Minister, by divers de∣vices; but Monsieur the Cardinal well informed of his ill deportment, advised him to beware of himself and become more faithfull to the King his Master, giving him to understand, that he was the more obliged to do so, in regard the King being well informed of his actions, gave him so much time to look back into himself, that he might not destroy him. He seemed to be very ready to withdraw himself from those imbroyls, and also took occasions to speak unto the King, whiles he was ma∣king of him ready, to assure him that he would never be defective in his duty; yet notwithstanding all this, his turbulent Soul was not able to contain it self in this re∣solution; for it was known, that a certain messenger sent by some one from the Cabal, was kept private in his lodging at Tours, while the King stayed there, and that Louviece who belonged to him, being one in whom he much confided, was gone upon a private message for him, these things gave reason to beleeve. That he still persisted in his first designs, and being a person of a bold nature, and ready to run into all sorts of extremities, the King was councelled to secure him at Nants.

Politique Observation.

IN concernments of State it is dangerous to rely upon the promises of those who are over-mastred either by love or ambition. These two Passions do so hurry away the Soul, so animate it with violent ebulitions and so blind it, that they prepare it for any wickednesse. We have hereofore shewed what attempts ambi∣tion maketh upon the valiant, and we have evidenced that there is no sort of wic∣kednesse which it will not perswade for the attaining of its designs. And it is not more easie to verifie the same concerning lusts, which corrupteth both the mind and understanding, which beleaguereth and burneth up the heart with a bruitish heat, and which doth so alter the nature and complexion of the most temperate, when they are once ingaged by it, that there is not any unlawfulnesse into which it doth not transport them; it is a fatal sore from whence arise horrours, sacriledges, wars, perfidiousnesse, murthers, Paricides, and cruelties, untill it leads them to the act∣ing of such things, as both Heaven and Earth do blush at the sight of. The Histo∣ry of Italy, furnisheth us with a memorable example, to evidence that there is not any abhomination whatever, into which these two Passions are not able to preci∣pitate a man; it is in the person of Caesar Borgia Cardinal de Valence, whose Am∣bition not brooking the Popes giving the charge of General of the Church Ar∣mies to the Duke of Candy his elder brother, an office which he himself aimed at, and who likewise was passionately enamoured of his wife; his Sister in Law, caused him one night to be assassinated, as he rid alone through Rome, and his body to be cast into Tyber. And that we may particularly look into the wicked effects of a dis∣honest love, Antiquity hath afforded us a notable testimony of the disorders which he is liable to, who permits himself to be blinded with this Passion, when it saith; that Jupiter himself the first of their reputed Gods, could not be both wise and in love at the same time. And one of the best advices which can be given to those that attempt to raise their fortunes at Court, is, that they forbear to ingage them∣selves

in the love of women who are factiously bent; for admitting them to be ingaged in any Cabal, they have so powerfull an Art to perswade what they indea∣vour, that it is impossible to defend ones self from them; and as they have no small Passions, they blindly ingage themselves in prosecution of their malice and revenge, that a man insensibly finds himself upon precipices, from whence it is im∣possible for him to get off.

The Cabal of Chalais, punished by Arrest from the Chamber of Justices at Nants.

CHalais being once arrested, condemned himself as guilty, and desired in or∣der to making of his peace, that he might speak with Monsieur the Cardinal, the Duke de Belligard, and the Marquesse de Effiat, who were placed near the Car∣dinal. The King was advised of it, who commanded them to go to him: Twice they went, and the Cardinal never spake to him, but in hearing of the Sieur de Belligard. At first Chalais desired and indeavoured to justifie his innocence, but finding by the Cardinals discourses that his faults were but too well known, so that that was not the way to do his work; he afterwards freely confessed to him those Delinquencies which could not be excused, he acknowledged the advice which hee had given Monsieur upon the imprisonment of the Duke of Vendosm, and the grand Prior his brother, and confessed that he was then of opinion, that Monsieur should withdraw himself from the Court, and discovered several other things of con∣cernment. But having twice abused the Kings Grace, his Confession now avai••'d him little. The King gave Commission to the Lord Keeper Marillac, and the Sieur de Beauclere, Secretary of his commands, privately to inform themselves of the whole Plot, and his Majesty desired that Monsieur would declare in their presence, that which he had discovered to him in particular, after he had been sensible of the little justice and reason there was to ingage him in their embroils. At first, he made some scruple at it, but at length having considered of the duty which he ow∣ed his Majesty, and how much reason Princes themselves have to chastise them who ingage them by their evil councels in designs against the State, without any other motion then their particular discontent and private interest, he resolved upon it, and discoursed the whole to them in the Kings presence. That M••nsieur de Soissons was the correspondent which he had at Court to inform him of all the news that passed there, that Chalais was the Internuncius, that his advice had been to gain Madam Villars, by means of Monsieur the grand Prior, to the end he might make sure of Haure if occasion should be, and that he should indeavour to obtain the go∣vernment of Pont de l' Arche, for the Marquesse de Coeuvres, with hopes that the grand Prior would at Monsieurs request deliver up that place which was upon the way to Haure, and might serve for a retreat in case he went thither: That Chalais did likewise perswade him to deal with the Hugonots, and to make use of them for a revolt in the State, and that he had lent him Louviere to be sent towards the Duke de Lavalete, to ingage him in the businesse, and to make sure of M••ts; in fine, that it was he who had advised him, that the King had ten thousand men about Nants to stop his going from Court. This Declaration was signed by the King. the Queen Mother, the Lord Keeper Marillac, the Sieur de Beauclere, Monsieur the Cardinal, and the Marquess de Effiat; insomuch that for the chastising these insolent and rash actions the King set up a Chamber of Justice in Nants.

Politique Observation.

THough Clemency be one of the worthiest Ornaments in a Soveraign, yet it is not permitted him to make use of it, when it is prejudicial to the publick. That gentlenesse which is shewed to the Ring-leaders of a Conspiracy, is a dangerous cruelty to the State. Cato was of opinion, that they who did not hinder evil-do∣ers

when they might do it, by chastizing them, ought themselves to be punished. For that were to encourage their abettors to follow their evil examples, it is true Aro∣stole saith, The subjects love is the chief foundation of Royal Authority, and that they are not easily induced to love Kings, unlesse upon their owne advantage. And it is very necessary for them to punish the factions, without which they would be hourly exposed to the dangers of civil war, which are the cause of the greatest misfortunes, that can afflict a State. And the same Philosopher in his Morals, esteemeth him uncapable to command, who is never angry, but affects to shew himself merciful, on all occasions whatsoever. To speak truth, a King is bound to shew as much severity to them, whom the publique Interest obligeth to be cha∣stised, as bounty to them that keep themself within their duties. It is the onely means, saith Tacitus in his Annals, to render him as well feared by the wicked, as esteemed and honoured by the good; who receive no lesse satisfaction in the punishment of crimes, than in the receiving of those rewards, which art due to their virtue.

The Sentence of death passed against the Sieur de Chalais.

THe King comitted the tryal of Chalais rather to a Chamber of Justice than any private Court not onely because he would have it expedited, it being improper to be delayed, but also to keep private the names of his Confiderates and their designs, which were dangerous to be published. His Majesty made the Lord keeper Marillac President, and appointed for Judges the Sieurs de Cusse and Brie Presi∣dents of the Parliament of Britain, The Sieurs Fonquet Marchant, Chriqueville Master of Request, and six Councellors of the Parliament of Britain. They met several times for instruction of the Processe. Chalais was often times examined, and having found by discourse with several people with whom he conversed, that there was full information made of all his wicked designs, he confessed not onely what was conteined in Monsieurs Declaration, but withal divers other things of which Lorrain accused him, and which were testified by Monsieur de Bellegarde, Le Sieur d'Effiat, by the Maust exempt, who had the charge of his person, and by one of the Life-guard, to all which he made no denial being brought face to face. He discovered the Major part of his Associates, he confessed that he would have carried Monsieur from the Court, that he would have perswaded him to take up arms, to hold Intelligence with the Governours and Hugonots, to make him∣self Master of Havre, Mets, and diverse other places of the Kingdome, and with∣al that being once at a Council, where the grand Prior and those of his faction were present, he proposed to them to take the Marshal d'Ornano out of prison, to poniard the Cardinal, and then to fly into Flanders; thinking that this once done, they might easily obtain all their desires. There were several other charges pro∣duced against him, and amongst others, certain letters from the Sieur de Moison the Kings Resident with the Countesse of Hanault in Germany, and of the Sieur de Vatembourg his Majesties Resident with the Emperour, by which they gave advice of the Marshal d'Ornano's conspiracy, of certain letters which Chalais had writ to the Dutchesse de Chevreuse in Biscay, in which there were discourses to the Kings dishonour, and also certain letters in characters to the same Lady, the Declaration of Monsieur the Kings Brother, and the informations of the Vice-Seneschal de Moulins.

These enermous crimes rendred him guilty and worthy of death, in regard he was the Kings Domestique Servant, and that he had the honour to be in a charge, which obliged him to be alwayes near his Majesties person. Justice could not save him, and the several relapses, which proceeded from the fiercenesse and ambition of his Spirit, tied up the Kings Arms from mercy. So this Chamber of Justice con∣demned him to be attainted and convicted decrimine lesae Majestatis, and to be be∣headed in the Befroy of Nantes; That his head should be put upon a spear over the

gate of Sanvetour, that his body should be quartered into four parts, and hung upon the four principal places of the City, that his posterity should be ignoble and of the Yeomantry; His houses raized, and that for the farther discovery of all his Abettors, he should be put on the Rack. But the Kings clemency, seconded by the affection, which he alwayes had for him, moderated the judgment, and onely commanded his head to be cut off, and that they should shew him the Rack, but not torture him.

They, who understood not, that the whole Intreague was discovered, or that there were sufficient poofs to convict him, were astonished, that he should so freely confesse those crimes, whereof he was accused, and withal some were so bold, to report, that he had confessed his crimes thus frankly, upon the Cardinals sug∣gestian, and perswading him to believe, that it was the onely means to obtain the Kings favour, the attainment of which, he gave him great cause to hope for. But there need no other proof for conviction of this lye, than the answer which Chalais made to the Sieurs des Cartes & de Lourie, Councellors of the Parliament, both persons of a clear reputation, and entrusted to exame him: after judgment had passed upon him; who having told him, that a report was spread abroad, that he had con∣fessed his crimes wherewith he was charged, partly through fear and partly through hope of life, conjured him, he being now shortly to render an account of his actions before God, to discover, if it were so or not, or if he had impeached any one in prejudice to the truth and his conscience; and had no other answer from him, but that, what he had said, was truth, excepting onely, where he had in anger spoke too hardly against Madam de Chevreuse, who had given him no reason for it▪ and that he should be very wicked and sencelesse to discover so many horrible crimes, to clear himself and charge innocent persons, and all for the satisfaction of another mans passion. This proof was so much the more certain, in regard it proceeded from the last passages of his life, in which he testified, that he would dispose himself by a true repentance, to obtain pardon from God of his faults. There was hereupon great reason to admire the Kings clemency, seeing that he might in justice imprison and punish diverse Grandees of the Court, whom he had accused, who were no small number; but his Majesty in stead of Publishing their design was pleased to punish all their great faults in one man onely, keeping some in prison and sending Madam de Chevreuse into Lorraine, not having ground to hope that she could live in the Court and not raise new broyles.

Politique Observation.

ALthough it be expedient to detect the chief contrivers of a compiracy either against the Publique quiet or their Kings person, yet wise Politicians have not thought it proper, to prey too exactly into all the complices, or the plot it self, if any great number of potent leading men have ingaged in it. It being to be feared, least either their quality or number, might draw others in, or that the pretences of their design might be so specious, that many persons might be concerned in it, who never knew at all the true depth of the business. It was upon this accompt, that the Senate of Rome, condemned Lucius Vectius, and Tarquinius for discovering, that Caesar and Cressus, were parties in Catalines conspiracie, it being by them feared, and that with reason, least a greater number who were admirers of those two eminent persons, might betake themselves to the same party: A little dissem∣bling upon such an occasion, will be more, then the strictest inquisition as Pompey made appear, upon Sertorius his death; for Perpenna having sent him a great chest full of Letters, which the Romans had sent to Sertorius, ingaging themselves in his quarrel, he would not read one of them but cast them all into the fire, fearing least instead of one Sertorius, twenty might spring up in Rome, when they should find themselves discovered; and for his part it was not his desire to force, or oblige them by violence to unite themselves together, for their own defence. Thus Alexander, having intercepted some of Darius his letters, by which he had in∣couraged

certain Grecians of his own Army to kill him, was in a great doubt, whe∣ther he should suppresse or discover them, at least to those to whom they were di∣rected; but having asked Parmenios advise in the business, he was counselled not to speak of it to any one whatever, because in a multitude there are never wanting some seditious persons, who only lack a head and prop, to make the wickednes of their hearts apparent, and are naturally so base-minded, that the bare report of a Faction, is ground enough to ingage them in it.

Certain Broyles sprung up in the Court of England, by the ill Counsel of some of the Queens household.

THe Court of France was not the only Scean, of Factions: England was no lesse pestered with imbroyles by those divisions which happened between the King and Queen, but ended by the returning into France, all the Queens officers, though by the Articles of marriage it had been concluded, That her Majesty should be attended by officers who were French and Catholiques. But it was most certain, the English never intended long to keep them, which they sufficiently shewed, by the entertainment, given them at Dover, where they could hardly get meat for their mony, and soon after their arrival, they laid hold on several occasions to put what that had concluded on in execution. It is reported that some Ecclesiastiques and women, did sow jealousies and discontents between the King and Queen, which exasperated the King very much against them, whereupon the Duke of Buc∣kingham designed that his Wife, Sister, and Niece, might be her Bed-chamber Women, which being contrarie to the Articles of Marriage, which did prohibit any to bear office in the Queen's Family, who were not Catholiques, it was denied him; which angered him the more, in regard he had used to dispose of all affairs in Eng∣land with a great deal of Authority: It was indeed proposed not long after to do that Honour to his Mother, who was a Catholique, and to his Wife, who was that way inclined, but he being unsatisfied with it, did from that time forward use his utmost endeavours, to foment and revenge it. But it is on the other side reported, that Madam de Cheuureuse, discontented in the French Court, and having got a good acquaintance in England, blew the Coales of this division, only to be revenged; and withal that Buckingham, was much blamed by the Parliament of England, for having admitted of divers Articles the Treaty of Marriage, which were prejudicial, to the Religion of the Country, and threatned to be called to an accompt, for a vast summe of mony, which was pretended he had diverted to his own use.

Now to satisfie the Parliament, who are of great power in England, he made it his business to fall upon the Catholiques, especially the Queens officers, and all that he might testifie to the Parliament, how he would conform himself to their pleasure in every thing: But he was vexed most of all when he went into Holland, upon some affairs, with design to passe to the Court of France, and the King gave the King of England to understand, that he did not like of the Journy; The Earle of Holland too, did not a little set on those divisions, for that the French, who were neer the Queen, had hindred him from being over-seer of her Majesties Re∣venue, and had perswaded her to bestow that place upon the Bishop of Mande, which exasperated him very much, so that he made use of his power both with the King, and Bukingham, to drive on the business to such a height, that it was at last concluded, that all her Majesties officers should be returned into France, which was accordingly performed, and about the beginning of August, they were forced to crosse the Sea.

Politique Observation.

IT is Common upon the marrying of great Princesses with a Forraign King, to give them officers of their own Country, but it is seldome seen, that they con∣tinue any long time neer them. It cannot be avoided, but that there will jealousies and heart burnings arise between them and the Natives of the Country, concerning their enjoying those offices, which they believe are due to themselves? which jea∣lousie doth usually raise such storms; that their ruine is included in it: but admit, no jealousie did arise, yet the meer diversity of their language and Customes, were enough to create differences and divisions between them; Forraign officers cannot forbear discoursing together in their own language, which createth suspitions in those who understand it not. By reason of the diversity of their fashions, they laugh at one another, which commonly breeds quarrels between them; and withall, let a man be never so complaisant in his humour, yet there is alwayes a jea∣lous eye upon them, that they contrive some thing against the State. Of this, there are divers examples in all times, as particularly in the raign of Francis the first, in which Bellay reporteth that Affairs were very much imbroyled by strangers, in∣stancing, the Bishop of Liege, the Prince of Orange, the Marquis of Mantua, and Andreas Doria; hence Bodin in his Commonwealth, doeth much blame the Vene∣tians, for admitting of all kind of strangers amongst them, Lypsius observeth, That as when many crickets come into a house, it is one assured sign, of their sodaine de∣struction, so when a great multitude of strangers shall live in a Nation, it is a cer∣tain, Index of some revolution neer at hand. Indeed, they have not usually any great deal of affection, for the Country where they live, so that they do not heartily embrace the Interests of it, and in case a war should break out, none would be so ready as they to entertain intelligence and give advices to the enemies. They are also easily provoked against the natural inhabitants of the Country, upon any su∣spition, that they are lesse esteemed by them, then others, which induceth them to stick close together and to raise Factions against the State: withal their bodies may not be punished, though there be some kind of reason for it, least they should ge∣nerally resent it, and raise up a thousand Broyles. These are the chief reasons why it is impossible to preserve a Family of Officers, Strangers in a Queens Court. This was it which did oblige those of Sparta, as Xenophon reporteth it, not to suffer any strangers to live in their Commonwealth, which made the Athenians take the same resolution, as Plutarch observeth in the life of Pericles, and which made Sue∣tonius commend Augustus, that he would rarely grant to any the being free or na∣turals of his Kingdome, and which induced Polydore Virgil to say in his History of England, That it was not the custome of English to admit of many strangers amongst them, least the difference of their customes and fashions, might cause them, not to live in a good intelligence with the natives of the Country.

The King sends the Marshal de Bassompierre into England.

THe Queen Mother, having been acquainted with the disorder which had hape∣ned in the Queen of Englands Family, first sent the Sieur de Barre to her, to testifie to her that she was sorry for her and took part in her discontents; and shortly after, there being no reason to put up such an injurie, the Cardinal advised his Majesty to dispatch the Marshal de Bassompierre as extraordinary Ambassador to the King of England, for a redresse in the business.

Amongst divers others he was more particularly made choise of for that employ∣ment, because there had been many of his near kindred retained near the Queen, who were now all sent back again; So that it was thought considering the near Interest of his family, that he would be the more zealously affectionate, in dispatch∣ing such instructions, as should from time to time be sent to him. He was but coldly entertained in England, because audience had been denied to the Lord

Montague, who was sent into France upon the return of those Officers; however he was no whit discouraged, at it, knowing that any Ambassador, ought to shut his eyes, at all little difficulties and obstructions, so he may carry on his Masters work to a good issue. The King of England appointed Commissioners to treat with him upon that affair, who being met together, he represented to them, in order to his instructions, that amongst other things comprehended in the Articles of Marriage, it had been concluded and agreed on, That the Queen of England should have free excercise of her Religion, that she should have a Bishop and a certain number of Priests, to exercise the Offices of her Religion, That all her houshold should be Ca∣tholiques and French, and that all the English Catholiques should in general re∣ceive greater priviledges, then had been granted them, if the Treaty with Spain had been effected: That the late King James, and the present King Charls his son then Prince of Wales, had confirmed it by oath, and that King James had com∣manded his Officers, not to trouble or molest the Catholiques any more, where∣upon that the King his Master, had conceived great hopes of prosperity and happi∣ness, for the Queen his Sister, neither could he believe that the King of England his Brother in Law, would break his word given upon the consideration of Royal Marriage, who until then had amongst other virtues the reputation of being Just to his promises. That this new Alliance instead of reuniting their persons and In∣terests would now rather, breed great divisions between them, and at such a time, when they had most need of being in amity with one another, both for assi∣sting of their Allyes, and their own particular preservation. And that notwith∣standing all these premises, the King of England had sent back all those Officers, of the Queen, contrarie to the Treaty, which had been confirmed by oath; that he placed about her, Officers who were English, and of a Religion contrary to hers; and besides all this that the Catholiques in General, were every where troubled and ill treated for their Religion sake. So that the King his Master, unable to abandon the Queen his Sisters Interest, had sent him to his Majesty of Great Bri∣tain, to put him in mind of his promises, and to perswade him. That her Majesties Catholique Officers might be re-admitted to her, as also that his Catholique sub∣jects might be more favourably dealt withal, The English Commissioners could not deny what had been concluded in the Treaty; but they would lay the fault of the Officers return, upon their own shoulders, pretending that they had raised troubles in the Kingdome, in his Majesties own Family, and that of his dear con∣sort the Queen, but they did not produce any sufficient proofs upon the business: And as to that which concerned the English Catholiques, they pleaded, that it had only been granted for formalities sake, and to satisfie the Pope. But the Marshal producing before them the late Kings Oaths, confirmed too by another of the pre∣sent King, then Prince of Wales, they could no longer tell what to say to the busi∣ness, but fled to other complaints, not material or any wayes relating to the matter in question. The Marshal replyed and that very tartly, that he could not sufficient∣ly admire that the Articles of Marriage, and confirmed by Oath, were not ob∣served: That the Queens Officers were sent back, under pretence that they trou∣bled the State, without giving the King his Master any notice of it, and without acquainting him in the least with those crimes which were presented to be commit∣ted, That presently thereupon, English Officers and those Protestants, should be placed in their rooms, That indeed those accusations were to be esteemed as frivo∣lous, and admitting them for just, yet ought they to be chastised only, and others French and Catholique put into their places, by the rules of the Treaty. But that indeed those pretended quarrels or Jarrs raised by the Queens French Officers, were so far from being the true cause of their return, that on the contrary, the Lord Mo••ntague had been at Nantes, not many dayes before their being sent over to congratulate the King and Queen Mother, concerning the good understanding, which was between their Majesties of Great Britain, and concerning the great sa∣tisfaction which the King received at the Queen his wifes behaviour. That of the suddain and unlookt for discharge of her Officers happening so immediately upon

the neck of this joy, could not but appear strange, and that as it did much wound the King of Englands Reputation, so it likewise injured the King his Masters Gene∣rosity, who was not resolved to put up such a wrong; who after he had tried all fair means to get satisfaction done to him, would, if not granted, use all lawfull means (of what kind soever) to procure it. These replies were so just and resolute, that in reason they should have produced those effects which were expected. But the before recited Passages had so exasperated Buckingham, that he obstructed the procuring of that satisfaction, which France did so earnestly expect.

Politick Observation.

IT is very unseemly that a Kings Officers should perswade him to be worse then his word, onely to satisfie their own Passions. It were the ready way to subju∣gate the glory of the Master, to the Will of the servant, and to suffer the least Stars to eclipse the splendor of the Sun, who have no light; but what they borrow from his rayes. Private affections have ever been hurtfull to publick consultations, as Titus Livy recordeth, neither was his judgement to be questioned, when he said, there are cereain Clouds which do darken the Soul, and make it like a dis-temper∣ed eye, which seeth all things far different from what they really are. The word of a Prince is a sacred pledge, and his glory is linked with it. The Minister who is to see it performed, is obliged to effect it with inviolable respect, much lesse, not to abuse it for his own particular anger and Passion. How can it seem lawfull for a Minister to obstruct it by so prophane an abuse, when it is not permitted to a King himself to recede from it, though the good of his State were never so deeply con∣cerned in it. Good Princes, as Traian saith, are more bound to perform what they promise, then to effect what themselves desire, so that it is not permitted them in a Treaty to be worse then their words, under pretence of the publick good; or to say their Counsel doth imagine the contrary to be more proper, or that the ne∣cessity of their affairs doth require it. If once a Prince should do so he would ever passe for a Prince without Faith, which is the greatest misfortune can betide them, and thus Mimus Publicanus saith, he who hath once forfeited his Faith, hath no∣thing else to lose, because all the Goods and Honour of a man depend thereupon. It is indeed fit to consider of Treaties with deliberation before they are entred into, but when once a Prince shall have passed his word to observe them, there cannot then be any starting hole to creep out at. It is a shamefull excuse for them to al∣ledge they did not think of it. Bias saith, they cannot make no lawfull excuse, for he that loseth the credit and glory of being esteemed faithfull, hath a more con∣siderable damage, then if he lost the thing which he promised. After Cinna had sent for Marius, he made a question whether or no he should receive him; but Sertorius understanding he had sent for him, told him it would be unfit to propose it to him; for (quoth he) the obligation of Faith, doth not allow of the conside∣ration of what is once promised. But certainly it is a very great abuse to the Ma∣jesty of a King to break his Oath, for by it he doth seem to mock God, whom he invoketh as a witnesse of his promise. Cicero saith in his Offices, that an Oath ne∣ver ought to be broken, and the Egyptians punished Perjury with death, because they who were guilty of it, did not onely violate the worship of God, but broke faith which is the greatest and strongest tie of humane society.

The Traffique at Sea established.

DUring all these civil and forraign broyls, the Cardinal was intent upon repai∣ring those losses which France had sustained in the late Wars, and upon setling such an Order in the three States, that happinesse might succeed their miseries and abundance those wants which they had undergone; in this, he imitated the wise Physitian, who having recovered his Patient, maketh it his work to restore his for∣mer strength. There onely wanted this one thing to the compleating of it. That

they upon whom the executing of his designs did depend, would lend their assist∣ing hands to it. Now Commerce at Sea, being one of the chief Fountains of a Nations riches, he made it his first care to settle that in a safe course, which his Ma∣jesty having assented to, he gave notice of it to the Undertakers, and that he should be glad to see them enter into Companies and Partnerships; assuring them, that they should have all possible assistance from him, and that he doubted not but they might in time, receive as great advantages by it, as the Hollanders did by that which is setled amongst them, or as the Spaniards did from the Mines of Peru. There wanted not divers who were ready to adventure on such a design, Montmor in the name of one hundred others, presented to the Councel, Articles of esta∣blishment for a Company, to Traffique both into the East and West, by Sea and Land. He proffered in their behalf to raise a stock of six hundred thousand Livres, and that the moyety of the profits thereof, should stil go towards the increasing of the said stock: That he would expend the sum of six hundred thousand Livres in building of ships and setling the ground-works of their Trade. These Proposals were very advantagious; his Majesty approved of them, and commanded the Car∣dinal to conclude upon the Articles with the Company. So they had divers Privi∣ledges and Liberties granted to them, in regard of Forraign Wars, and the Wealth which followeth Traffique, as also in consideration of the accruement of power and shipping by Sea, which was no slight matter, for that the Spaniards, English, and Hollanders had become very potent at Sea, by this means, and have often there∣upon fallen in upon our Coasts at their own pleasures. The Cardinal withall, per∣swaded his Majesty, at the same time, to lay out a great sum of money, to buy Ships both at Amsterdam, Denmark, and other places of France, to defend themselves from the like incursions.

Politick Observation.

TWo things chiefly are necessary to render a Kingdome flourishing, Govern∣ment and Commerce, and as without the former it is impossible that it should long subsist, so without the latter, we find it want many things important to the life of man, and that the Nation cannot attain unto any great riches. Those Politicians have deceived themselves, who measure happinesse by vertue alone, and think that all their cares and dangers whereunto they expose themselves, are to no purpose. We are not now in those times, when men lived on Acorns dropping from Oaks, or when the Fruits of the Earth were the greatest delicacies without art or labour. Ma∣ny more things are now require to entertain 〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…en heretofore, and the neglect of Commerce were to deprive ones self of them by lazinesse. And admitting it were not so, have not sundry Philosophers used Traffique as a means to attain the experience of many excellent things. Sol••n amongst the Athenians rendred him∣self capable of giving Laws to his Country. Thales one of the Sages of Greece, made no difficulty to imploy part of his time therein, and Plato himself did the same thing to get the charges of his voyage into Egypt, by carrying Oyls thither to sell, that he might purchase knowledge. Withall, we live not now so much by the Com∣merce of Elements, as by that of Gold and Silver, those are the great Springs which more all the rest, and without them, Kingdomes can neither be Potent in War, or flourish in Peace. Politicians acknowledge them for the Sinews of War, and as for Peace, never any poor State was yet considerable, or ever came to any great height, and what brings greater riches then Commerce? France aboundeth in many sorts of Grain, but wanteth Gold and Silver. Now the onely means which it hath to come by it, is to send abroad to its neighbours who want many of those commodities, what it can well spare by way of Commerce, a means so powerfull, that sending onely what is superfluous, it may bring in the greatest part of their wealth.

Monsieur the Cardinal is made by the King, grand Master and Super-inten∣dent of the Traffique and Commerce of France.

IT was necessary upon setling the Company of Trade, to appoint them a head, who might have a full power amongst them, and whose reputation and knowledge might countenance their undertakings, it being most certain, that such designs as are out of the common road fall to nothing, if not upheld by some particular favour or an extraordinary understanding. To the Admirals care it could not be commit∣ted, unlesse their speedy ruine had been intended, for that he assumed of late so great a power over all Traders, that instead of assisting, he undid them. The one∣ly difficulty was, that it being fit the head of this Company should be absolute, there would every day arise some disputes between the Admiral and him; but the King to avoid this inconvenience, was of opinion, rather to cease the Admiralty, then to break off the setling of Trade; for that the Admirals were no lesse charge∣able to the State then to the Merchants, they drawing at least one hundred thou∣sand Livres out of the Treasury every year, without any advantage by it. Here∣upon the King resolved about the beginning of the year, to take the Admiralty out of Montmorency's hands, who seemed willing enough to part with it, by his readinesse to treat thereupon, and in conclusion, he had a good round sum paid him for it. This resolution was of such concernment, that without it, not one∣ly the Trading of France had been quite broke, but the Kings Subjects had been lyable to dayly Inroads and Pillagings, for that of late years, above four thousand Christians, had been been made Slaves by the Turks, above one hundred Vessels taken, sunk, and burned, by which means a great many families were brought to Beggery.

The King too good, just, and generous to suffer such injuries, which by dimi∣nishing his Peoples goods, did no lesse take off from his reputation and glory, re∣solved to contrive some remedy for it. It was ordered that the Admiralty should be suppressed, and that a chief, grand Master, and super-intendent of Commerce of France should be set up instead of it, endowing him with full power to execute the Office of Admiral, in such cases as might advantage the benefit of Trade, or the Kingdom, and cutting off all other power which might prejudice either of them. There was now onely wanting a person of quality to execute this charge who ought to be resolute and clear from all private Interest, in regard of honour, or the pub∣lick good. The Cardinal had made it apparent that these qualifications are emi∣nent in himself, so his Majesty made choice of him, who accepted of it, but in re∣ceiving the Office, he would not take those Allowances and Pays which had for∣merly been due to the Admiralty, for that his Majesty had suppressed that Office, partly to save the expence of it, so that instead of contracting any charge in this new Office, his Majesty saved above one hundred thousand Livres per annum, heretofore assigned to the Admiralty, besides he had now the power of command∣ing his Fleets wheresoever he pleased, but before the command of them was an∣nexed to the Admirals, though they were not indued with qualifications necessary. for such a charge, and which is most to be observed, that though the Cardinal might as easily have obtained the Office of Admiral, and executed it with the same advantage for the King, the benefit of France, and Trade, as that of super-inten∣dent of the Sea, yet he waved that honour and contended himself with the means to serve him in a condition lesse honourable, and lesse subject to emulation.

Politique Observation.

IT is great discretion in a Minister to wave those Titles, which onely serve by reason of their noise, to expose him unto Envy. They are but low Souls which affect ayry Titles, neither do they consider how that by ambition they do provoke

Fortune, and instead of making their authority respected, they do most commonly render themselves ridiculous in the eyes of all wise men. Modesty is the thing which makes greatness honoured, whereas ostentation offending every one, atracts the hatred of all the World, and becomes insupportable. Who so is advanced to any eminent pitch of Honour ought to imitate great Rivers, which glide a long, with little murmuring, though great profit to the people; whereas torrents being lesse profitable do perpetually vex the head with their noise. Great men ought more especially to shun such titles of Honour, as may render them odious. Scipio Affricanus, a man who wanted neither courage nor discretion, gave us a notable example of this particular, as Titus Livy hath observed, when as the Spaniards called him King, and he refused that little, which he knew would be dis-rellished by the Commonwealth, and told them that that of General of the Army was the greatest Honour, he did aspire to, That having indeed a royall soul he should not much take it amisse if they thought him worthy of that Honour; but he beseeched them to forbear the other, least that might breed a jealousie upon his Person.

Did not Augustus in the same manner testifie a great deal of Prudence, when in taking upon him the Emperial Crown, he refused to be called Emperours, and con∣tented himself with the name of Prince, which could not exasperate the Roman people, it being a name in use amongst them, and a fashion to create a Prince of the Senate? his discretion told him, That the Romans would easilier undergo sla∣very it self, then the name of it: and therefore he would prudently sweeten the displeasure which they might apprehend at their being brought under his command by a Title full of modesty, He also aimed at the names of Consul, Father of his Country, Tribune, and High Priests, only because the people did not mislike them, designing rather to add a new power to an old Title, then to assume upon himself such odious qualifications as would only render his power feared and redoubted.

An Assembly at Paris, to redress disorders of State.

THe setlement of Trade was sufficient to bring great profit to the Kingdom, but it was likewise necessary, to use divers other means, for the raising of it to it's height and greatness. The King had long before concluded on it, but finding himself unfurnished of a Minister, to put it in execution, the affairs had still con∣tinued in some lameness, until at last seeing himself assisted by the Cardinal he re∣solved to assemble the Chief Officers of his Kingdom, especially those who had acquired most experience and shewed best conduct in affairs. And for the better resolving upon the means, he appointed them to attend him a Paris, where being met together, his Majesty himself opened the reasons of their Assembling, upon the second of Dece••ber in the Thuill••ries; He was pleased to tell them, That he had called them together to provide some remedies against the disorders of the State, and that the Lord Chancellor should farther acquaint them with the rest of his de∣sires; and the Lord Chancellor beginning his speech, represented to them, the great disorders that had crept into the Kingdom, whilst the King was imployed abroad to repel his enemies and the great expences he was at for the keeping up of his Armies: and then told them that his Majesty was resolved for the establish∣ing of the Kingdom in its ancient splendour, to employ powerful redresses, and so to regulate his Treasuries, that there might alwayes be a sufficient foundation to supply the occasions of the State, without being forced to overcharge the people as of late: He gave them to understand, that the King was contriving to lessen the expences of his house, and even those which he was at for the paying of several Garrisons in places of no importance which he was resolved to dismantle: To settle Trade with ••ll possible advantages, for the enriching of his subjects: So to govern his Souldiers both in garrison and the field, that his subjects might be no more op∣pressed; upon which it chiefly was, that his Majesty had desired their advices. When he had concluded, the Cadinal made a most excellent speech, in which his eloquence was no lesse to be admired at then his prudence. He laid before that

Illustrious Assembly, how visibly God had made use of his Majesty to atchieve that in a little time for the publique good, which many thought impossible to have been effected in an age. He gave them to understand, that as there had been great charges and expences, so the King and Queen had received very great advantages by it, in relation to that Honour and Glory which is due to them; and that if any good successe had at any time happened, it was only the dawning of those resolu∣tions which his Majesty had taken, for the easing of his people, and restating the Kingdom in its former Splendor. That as only God can make something out of nothing, so it was necessary to lay a good foundation in the Treasury, and to that end, to cut off from the extravagant expenses, and add to the receipts, or in∣deed to do both at once. He shewed them, how that every one, regarding the advancement of his own private Interest, it might possibly provoke some to anger, if their expences were moderated; but he added withal, that no one could justly complain at it, since nothing was to be preferred before the Publique good, and that the King and Queen Mother, were both resolved to give a good example, by contracting the expences of their families.

He told them, that if in great tempests there was sometimes a necessary to part with the goods, to ease the vessel and defend her from shipwrack, prudence did direct the like thing in a State; Which ought not to be cast away for the preserva∣tion of any ones particular good, and that they themselves were bound in reason to conform themselves to the resolution thereof, for that it is impossible private and particular mens plenty and Riches, should long last, when the State is poor and needy, in fine, he told them, that setling a good government in the Affairs and Treasuries, they would in a very few years find, both the King and Kingdom raised to a greater pitch of glory, then ever it had formerly been, but he added, it would not be so necessary to order such things unlesse they were really put in execution; That the glory of setling the Nation being reserved for his Majesty, they who were deputies ought to esteem it a great Honour done them, in that he gave them part of it, and that for his own particular, he should esteem himself most happy to dye in the prosecution of so glorious a design.

After this first overture, the King sent divers proposals to the Assembly by his Solicitor General, upon all which such courses were resolved, as were thought most necessary for the setlement of the State. But it was first of all concluded, what order should be observed in the levying of men, as also for the maintaining of them, in such order, that the Country man might not be injured by them. It was thought fit to keep two Armies in readiness of between eighteen and twenty thou∣sand foot, and two thousand Horse, as well to secure the Publique Peace, as to support the Kings Authority, and also to keep Forreigners in a due respect. It is true, there were sufficient means found out to prevent the peoples damage, but it was to be doubted, that the Souldiers would not so readily observe those commands which his Majesty had been so careful to order. Next of all it was considered, what unnecessary expences of the State should be cut off, as well to pay off two and fifty Millions of Livers, which the Exchequer was indebt, as also to acquit the charges of the Nation without increasing the taxes. In order to which it was thought fit to contract the expences of the King and Queens Families, according to the resolution taken before the late Kings death: Not to exceed the sum of two Millions in Pensions, which was the sum appointed by the late King Henry the Great for that business, and lastly the Assembly proposed to his Majesty, the dis∣mantelling of a great number of strong places, which being in the heart of the King∣dom, or at least remote from the Frontiers, did only serve to countenance Rebel∣lions, and consume a vast sum of mony for payment of the Garrison Souldiers, and building unnecessary Fortifications. There was also care taken, (with refe∣rence to his Majesties good pleasure) for the relief of divers poor Gentlemen, Cap∣tains and Souldiers, wounded in his Majesties service; And at last the Assembly made earnest request to his Majesty, that he would for the future prevent, those revolts of the Grandees, which were commonly made every year to the great trouble of

the State, and that he would punish some for example sake, who had the Bold∣nesse, to take up Arms against his Authority, or to divide the State into Factions. They also proposed to his Majesty to admit into his Council, a certain number of Gentlemen, to bring them up to do him the more service, by the knowledge which they might get in State affairs, and in conclusion, they gave his Majesty most Prudent Counsel concerning the ordering and decreasing of the taxes, for the sup∣pressing of divers useless Officers, for the redemption of his Lands which were in Mortgage, by paying them in whose hands they were; the monies lent upon them, or full Interest, out of the account of the Revenue, to settle an order in the Trea∣sury to prevent all future relapses for the settlement of Commerce both by Sea and Land, for the distribution of charges as well millitary as others, which have dependance on the Chief Officers of the Crown, it being improper that they should be bestowed by any but the King himself. And these were the Chief things then brought into debate before them, and resolved on. So their was a Paper drawn up of those things which they proposed to his Majesty, the most part of which, ap∣peared so reasonable and judicious, that they have ever since served for Maximes and a Rule for the Goverment of the State; The Cardinal having put them in practise one after another, as fast as ever the Civil warres, the Factions at Court, and the attempts of the house of Austria upon France and it's Allyes would give way for it.

Politique Observation.

HE who would settle a discomposed Kingdom must resolve upon the course whereby to do it, with the advice of the States, or at least of them, who have gotten a great reputation of by experience in Affairs, by their qualities and conditions or the great understanding they are Masters of. On such an occasion, divers have had recourse to an Assembly of States: which because they are ordi∣narily accompanied with confusion by reason of the multitude, besides the great expence which they draw on, I should think it much more proper to make use of a selected Assembly, who are the only persons, whose opinions serve for guides to the rest, now no one can doubt but that their advices will be very necessary for a State on such an occasion, for that those great persons are like so many twinkling starres, whose counsels are replenished with so much light, that they soon make their Judgments of with is fit to be done, to shine forth. Not to need Counsel, is to be more then man, and not to make use of Counsel in affairs of concern, is to be lesse then man. God is not contented only with overuling the Elementary World and to make it fruitful in all kind of Science, by the influences and light of the Sun, but he hath imparted some share of his Luster to the other starres, and hath asigned so considerable a proportion of work to them that every one reputeth them in part to be the universal causes of all sublunary things; so it may safely be said too, that God creating a Minister in a Kingdom, whose Souls he replenisheth with any extraordinary part of understanding, doth not however forbear to be∣stow some light upon others too, though peradventure inferiour both for suffi∣ciency and quality, that they may contribute with him to the General good, by the particular knowledge which he may infuse into them, and by the Counsels wherewith he may inspire them. And if their advices may be of use in a Kingdom, they cannot be lesse advantageous, unto a Minister, on such an occasion, in which the angring of divers persons, cannot possibly be avoided. There never yet was any reformation for the publique good, but many particular private persons were angred at it. They who Judg of all things by their own private Interest, are ever discontented, and conceive no little ill will, against that Minister who is guided only by his own will, and direction: Whereas if it were done by those, whose wisdom is esteemed, and whose Prudence is respected, it would silence all men, and make that sweet and easie, which else would be bitter and insupportable. It is very dangerous it, for a Minister to undertake great enterprises upon, his own head only?

For good successe is not inherent in any man, seeing all are subject to Deficiencies in Actions and inconstancy; withall it is not to be doubted, but that the greatest part judging of things by the event, would charge him home with blame if any misfortune should happen. How many great men who promised themselves high matters, have seen the successe fall contrary to their expectations, and have been exposed to the disgraces of their King and People for their ill successe, which might have been secured too, had they but proposed their designs, and taken good advice upon them in a Counsel of the most considerable Grandees in the State? Hee who attempts nothing without good advice, secures himself from any ill accident whatever. Tiberius thought in no derogation from his honour, to acquaint the Senate with every affair, though never so little considerable. Anthony the Debo∣nair never took any thing in hand either in Peace or War, which he did not first communicate to several wise men, protesting that it was more reasonable to accom∣modate his opinion to their advices then to oblige them to follow his Will.

The Sieur de Baradas removed from Court.

ABout this time was Baradas removed from the Court, a person who had been much in favour with the King: He had been the first Gentleman of his Cham∣ber, and chief Querry of his Majesties little Stable: And as great favours puff up the mind, and destroy the judgement of many, if not qualified with a great under∣••••anding, he did so much forget himself, that he would oftentimes make himself Master of the Kings Will, and interpose in matters of concernment, in which he had neither ability or authority. His Majesty was much grieved at it, being a Prince who did not delight to see that they whom he favoured should abuse them∣selves, and be defective in that respect which is due unto him; but it one day fell out, that he being too importunate to perswade his Majesty to bestow a very great place upon a certain Kinsman of his, who must of necessity be dayly attending up∣on his Majesty, being a person too whom his Majesty did mislike, his Majesty re∣solved to deprive him, not onely of his Offices or Charge which he held neer his person but of that extraordinary familiarity wherewith he had formerly honoured him, and accordingly commanded him to retire to his employment in little Bour∣bon of chief Querry, an Office of no small advantage. But as nothing is so dis∣pleasing to Favourites as to find themselves cast off, he was so transported by it, that he suffered himself to be deprived by despair, of that little judgement which he had: There need no other indiscretion be alledged, but that one thing which he did in his Majesties Chamber, when the Governour of Souvre came in thither, whom he supposed one of the causers of his discredit; he began to quarrel with him, and told him that he should be very glad to meet him with his Sword in his hand: Which so insolent discourse being before his Majesty, he told him, that he did not remember the p••ace where he was, and that he deserved to be sent to the Bastile, there to be punished according to the Act for Duels, but he only comman∣ded him to get him gone, from which time forward hee was no more seen at Court.

Politique Observation.

THere are but few Favourites who know how to moderate themselves, and so to manage their Affairs, that they may preserve their Masters good affection. A man ought to be of an excellent temper, well to digest any very great favour. It is most certainly true, that as excesse of meat stuffeth up the stomack, and choa∣keth the natural heat, so an extraordinary favour depriveth most men of their judgement, intoxicateth them, and makes them loose the exercise of their reason And for this cause it is, that they injoy those favours of fortune to their Graves, as it hath in all ages been seen, that the most part having been led in Triumph as it ••ere unto the highest point of Glory, have precipitated themselves into the greatest

gulfs of misery, and have so bruised themselves against the favour which they pos∣sessed, as if it had been purposely turned into a Rock for their ruine. The wise man considereth that an indifferent favour is much more certain then those great ones, and contenteth himself with what his Master bestoweth; Fortune doth no sooner raise him up but his discretion presently tells him, that her smiles are incon∣stant, and that nothing can so much contribute to his preservation, as to use them with moderation. He oftentimes reflecteth on that memorable passage of Sosistra∣tus, who being drawn in his Triumphant Chariot by four Kings, entertained him∣self with observing the motion of the Wheels, how that which was now uppermost presently became lowest, and being asked the reason of his contemplation, answer∣ed, that he delighted to remark the turning of his Wheels, and was by it put in mind of the inconstancy of humane Affairs, and that the same Fortune which had raised him to that height of prosperity above those four Kings, then sub-jugaged to him, might shortly bring him to the same condition. The wise Favourite fixing his mind upon the inconstancy of Fortune, as upon a sure maxime, never permitteth her to blind his mind with vanity, but keeps himself upon his Guard, not putting himself on in matters of State, but as his Master calls him, and payeth him the grea∣ter respects, as his obligations increase. He is industriously carefull not to abuse his Masters favour▪ by assuming too great a power on himself, remembring how Calisthenes lost Alexanders good will, by reason of his too great presumption, and the vanities which he did commit in the Emperors presence: nothing doth so much destroy Favourites, as their affecting too great an Authority, and taking upon them too much power over their Masters: He likewise knoweth, that it is with them as with the Moon, who hideth her self when ever she approacheth near the Sun, it being from him that she receiveth her light, and that so Favourites ought not to exercise any kind of authority when they are near Kings, but are rather bound to shew them in their requests all imaginable respects whatsoever: it is his care not to intermeddle in the administration, nor doth he ever attempt to adde the power of governing the State, to that of his Masters good affection: But on the contrary, he takes so much the lesse upon him, when the Testimonies which he re∣ceiveth of his Masters Favour seem to give him most power, and it is his dayly fear to be raised to too eminent a degree, least he should by it be exposed to too great a fall which might totally destroy him.

Differences between the Bishop of Verdun, and the Officers of the City.

ABout the end of this year, great differences did arise, between the Bishop and the Officers of Verdun. This being a Frontier Town was then looked upon as somewhat considerable, in regard Monsieur de Lorrain, seemed to be active and able to attempt something upon France, which obliged the King to go on with the design which he had long before resolved of, building a Cittadel there. The Abbey of St. Vannes was ever reputed the most proper place of all the City for that purpose, whence it happened, that in the Charter of the said Abbey, as was to be seen, there had been divers Articles concluded between the Bishop of Verdun, to whom that place hath ever belonged, in which they bound themselves to build their Church in some other place, if it should be found necessary to make use of some part of it for the raising of a Cittadel. However the Lines were so contrived, that the Church was saved, but that of the Capucines was forced to be taken down, which was afterwards done, and rebuilt in another place.

Now the Bishop of Verdun, being a Kinsman of Monsieur de Lorrain, had no other motion but what came from him, so that not considering what dependance he had upon the King, suffered himself to be ingaged by the Duke to prevent with his utmost power, the building of the Cittadel. His Temporal power was but weak to manage his design, so he had recourse to his spiritual; and accordingly on the l••st of December, he published a Monitorium, fixed upon all publick places, against all such as should labour about it. But as the spiritual power hath no authority

over the Temporal to deprive it of its rights, so this procedure was looked on as a strange thing by the Kings Officers, who wanted neither courage nor loyalty in this affair. The Sieur Guillet Lievtenant at the Royal Siege in the Town, presently called a Councel of his Majesties Officers of the Town, to consider of what was to be done, where it was concluded to tear down such Papers as had been any where Posted up, and to set others in their places of a contrary tenour in the Kings be∣half, which was presently put in execution: The Bishop was much offended at it, and to be revenged for it he thundred out an Excommunication the next day against Gillet, which he fastned in divers places, and having given Orders to his great Vicars not to act any thing in prejudice of his pretended Authority, he departed from Verdun, and rid Post to Cologne. In the mean while the Sieur Charp••nti••r, his Majesties President in Mets, Thoul and V••rdun being acquainted with the whose proceeding, and considering how Derogatory it was from the Power who was So∣veraign of the Town, and consequentially, had absolute authority to fortifie it, as himself should think fit, as also to give such assurances to his Officers who should execute his royal commands, as might secure them from any Bishop, Excommu∣nication, onely for doing their duties, he declared the said Monitorium to be abu∣sive and scandalous, and commanded it to be torn and burned by the Hangman: That for reparation of such a proceeding, the said Bishop should be sent Prisoner un∣der a safe conduct to Paris: That his Benefices should in the mean time remain in his Majesties hands; and that he should pay ten thousand Livres fine for his said fault. The Judgement was put in execution with the usual form, excepting onely, as to the Bishops being sent to Paris, so that he resolving not to suffer himself to be thus despoiled of his Goods, thought his best course to send to the King to paci∣fie him for his rashnesse, as also he gave order to one of his Vicars to absolve the Sieur Guillet, and to license the going on of the Fortifications.

Politique Observation.

AMongst the sundry Priviledges, which our Kings bestow on those whom they call to their service, one of the most just and ancient is, that they may not be Excommunicated by the Prelates for such actions as they do in discharge of their duties. There need no other evidence of it but reason it self, and the order esta∣blished by God between the Spiritual and Temporal Power, which is such, that ei∣ther reserving himself within his prescribed bounds, ought not to attempt upon the others Power. And doth not History furnish us with divers examples, which are as so many proofs in this particular. I have seen an Act resolved by an Assembly, selected in Normandy, dated the year twelve hundred and five, which containeth, that no Arch-Bishop or Bishop, may Excommunicate any Barons, Bayliffs or Ser∣jeants without his Majesties permission; and the Arch-Bishop of Roijen, thereup∣on promised his Majesty in the year twelve hundred and seventeen, not to excom∣municate any of his Officers without his consent. The Bishop of Chartres in the year thirteen hundred sixty nine, having attempted to Excommunicate the Kings Officers at Manto, was condemned by a Judgement to recall the Excommunicati∣on, or lose his Temporal Goods which were taken into Custody. The Official of Roijen in the same manner too, having thundred out an Excommunication against one of the Kings Bayliffs, in the year thirteen hundred and seventy, who refused to deliver a Clerk to him whom he had taken Prisoner in coloured cloaths, was con∣demned by a judgement of the same nature to take off his Excommunication. And was not a Cardinal Bishop of Mans condemned by an Arrest in the year one thou∣sand four hundred sixty and five, to absolve those Officers of his Majesty, whom he had attempted to excommunicate with an inhibition, not to attempt the like any more hereafter. The Parliament of Grenoble, approving of the Cardinal de Cler∣monts power, who was the Popes Legate in Avignon, in the year fifteen hundred and sixteen, declared, That the Kings Officers who were in his jurisdiction, should not be any ways liable to Ecclesiastical censures or interdictions. And when the

Bishop of Castres excommunicated two Councellours of Tholouse, in the year one thousand five hundred sixty six, was he not adjudged to pay ten thousand Livres fine, and to repeal his Excommunication besides. And of latter time. when the Cardinal de Sourdis, attempted to excommunicate certain Counsellours of the Par∣liament, Anno one thousand six hundred and six, his Temporalties were seized on, and himself condemned by Arrest of the said Parliament to call in his Excom∣munication. It were easie to alledge many more like examples. But besides (though there are proofs enough to convince that this priviledge doth really be∣long unto the Kings Officers.) It is expresly said in the Arrest against the Bishop of Chartres, made on the year thirteen hundred sixty nine, and in those Articles proposed to the Assembly, Anno, fiteen hundred eighty three, at St. German en Lay, that they have injoyed it time out of mind.

Neither is this priviledge particular to them alone, for Matthew Paris saith, in the life of H••nry the second King of England, that the King of Englands Officers could not be excommunicated, unlesse the Prelates had first obtained his Majesties leave for it.