and antient friendship between the Duke and the new Governour of Millain to whom as to a chief Minister of State the charge of acquainting the Court with the condition of the Affairs of Italy doth belong So that as the Authority and rigidness of Count Fuentes had continually hindred the Duke in compassing his ends and enterprises so this mans easiness and the great friendship which he profest to have for the Duke considered it was thought they would make him more aptto attempt novelties since he might assist the Dukes affairs sundry ways at least till such time as the Duke having possest himself of a good part of Montferrat the King might be necessitated it being the lesser evil to suffer him to keep it Don Iohn of the most noble Family of Mendosa Marquess of Inoioso did then govern the State of Millain Count Fuentes being dead a little before He was newly raised to so great a Government from a lesser condition by the extraordinary favour of the Duke of Lerma whose Creature he was The Duke of Savoy had given him many years before the Marquesite of St Iermainâ—… in acknowledgment and reward for the service which he had formeâ—…ly done him in the Wars against the French and therefore being made Governor of Millain some Months before he in his passage entered into Asti where he was received with great civilities by the Duke and much private discourse past between them In these very Ruptures Count Guido who had deserved very well of the Crown of Spain and was a great Confident to the whole Spanish Nation for having fought on the Kings behalf in the wars of Flanders past several times secretly between Turin and Millain and had had private discourse with the Governour of Inoioso wherefore and for the news which was given out in Italy of great gifts that he had received from the Duke he was much suspected in the troubles which insued after between these Princes and as out of the aforesaid Reasons the Duke thought the Court of Spain might favour him in this Enterprise so he imagined upon better grounds that he had no reason to doubt the French For he had found two years before by his own experience how much that Queen did deâ—…est war in the Kingdom during the minority of her Son and though her Nephew the Cardinals danger should make her take a contrary resolution it was to be believed that those Forces and those Succours would rather have been prejudicial then of any help to the Adversary as those which would infallibly have made the Spaniards join in favour with the Duke against the Cardinall as against one who did trouble Italy and who with little of reputation or safety to the Kings Dominions did call in Forreign Nations a thing which was much abhor'd by the Spaniards in this Province As for the Princes of Italy he thought them much less able to disturb this Enterprise since not any one of them whilst the King was savourable unto him could succour Montferrat which was far distant from all their Dominions and every where surrouâ—…ed by the State of Millain Piedmont and by the River of Genoa He was likewise incouraged by many things wherein he knew he did far exceed the Cardinal the Authority he had won by being esteemed a Prince of great Courage Sagaâ—…ity exceeding diligent and very dexterous at all great Affairs And moreover by his long experience very well acquainted with the affairs of the world and well vers'd in State-Affairs by reason of his Intelligence held with many Christian Princes That he was by his natural disposition by his long experience in war so much exercised in Military Affairs as that he was not to be equal'd therein by any Prince of those times The opinion which was held of his Vivacity and war-like Spirit practised both in good and bad Fortune which made him capable of any whatsoever weighty imployment that he was for State and natural â—…orces a Prince powerfull enough in Italy and that by reason of his confining upon many warlike nations he might easily come by many Souldiers which he might feed in the fertile soil of Piedmont wherefore thinking that all difficulties were to yield to his will and courage he imagined that Cardiâ—… Ferdinando being as yet but a young man newly setled in his Principality wanting many of those things wherein he knew himself did so much abound not being able to contend with him upon such disadvantages would either yield unto him or atleast come to some composition as Iovan Giacomo and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 had formerly done with his Progenitor Amaâ—… Having considered all these things and being of a great Spirit and full of extraordinary confidence and incited by an ardent desire of inlarging the limits of his Dominions a thing which over-sways all other humane affections being moreover inflamed with indignation for the injury which he afterwards pretended was done him they appeared greater and more secure to him then peradventure they would prove they therefore prevailed more with him then the consideration of any difficulties which he was likely to meet with in this his resolution which either not dreaming of or not caring for he thought it necessary as it becomes all great Spirits to do to make use of the present condition of times thinking as he was wont to say that they would be as favourable unto him as they had been the contrary to his Grandfather when by the Decree of the Emperour Charles the fifth he was excluded the possession of Montferrat Therefore neither wholly refusing nor yet wholly consenting to his Daughters Marriage he demanded that she should first come into Piedmont and bring her Daughter with her and that his pretentions to Montferrat should first be decided under pretence that he would have no cause of contention left behind him and Cardinal Ferdinando when he should be become his Son in law It was not yet three Moneths since Duke Francis his death and therefore though it was not certain whether the Dowager Dutchess was with child or no yet the thought thereof growing daily less and the Cardinal being with some resentment incited thereunto by the Duke her Father he at last consented that she should return to Piedmont And he began to take upon him the Government of the State in his own name without any consideration of the Child that might be born and took upon him the Title of Duke of Mantua not foregoing that of Cardinal The indeavours nor hopes of the future Marriage were notwithstanding quite given over when the Dowager Dutchess departed wherefore when she was ready to take her leave she intreated the new Duke even with tears in her eyes that he would give her leave to carry her Daughter at least to Modena that she might be brought up there with her Sister Isabella where she did rather chuse to live then to return without her Daughter home to her Father Upon the occasion of her departure Prince Victorio was again returned from
and that he would easily reduce affairs into their former condition Which hopes being greedily conceived and believed that he should be able to make that Court slacken their former orders and permit more freedom to him in conducting the publick affairs according to his own mind and according as times and occasions should serve but howsoever affairs went there for the more intimate occasions of this new commotion appeared too observe and too repugnant within themselves and peradventure were no less unknown to the Officers through whose hands they past then to the people who only minded the effects it is certain that the Duke either took or the Governour gave him occasion of re-assuming those Arms which being naturally given to war he had unwillingly laid down from the wresting of the meaning of the Capitulations of Asti from the dispute about their execution and from the rigorous pâ—…etentions about the point of honour between the Duke and the Governour Wherefore the Governour seeing him busie in preparing for a new war and being himself no less desirous to set it on fire tâ—…en the Duke thinking undoubtedly to bring him lower and to subdue his Forces he began to prepare an Army not inferiour to that of the preceding year he took order for men in Germany in Burgony in Swisserland and in the Kingdom of Naples he disburst moneys to fill up the Brigades of Lombardy and to raise new Foot in the State of Millain so rather as it were out of sport and out of a fained shew then out of any deliberate will war was again begun by him who was able to have quench'd the fire thereof which afterwards breaking forth in earnest and contrary to his opinion who caused it was the occasion of much prejudice and ruine to the people of Lombardy And as the first war was not improperly termed the Duke of Lerma's war so this upon better grounds was called Tolledo's war The troubles of France were at this time reduced to such terms as the King being neer the Princes Forces with a powerful Army the business had like to have been decided by a Battel But the King and Queen choosing rather even upon disadvantagious terms to forbear shedding of civil blood and to secure affairs then to get the Victory by the ruine and destruction of the Kingdom and by the common danger were not against According many things by way of Negotiation even contrary to their wills and authority Whereof two were the â—…iefest the first that the principal State-ministers should be removed from their Offices in whose places others of the confiding Princes should be put the other that the King should swear to make the Treaty of Asti be observed Wherefore the King understanding what orders the King of Spain had given to the Governour commanded Lodovico Mangiaâ—…te who was his Ageat in Turin to go to Millain and sollicit the execution of that Treaty Who being come to Millain and having spoken with the Governour desiring him in the Kings name that he would become more pliable and prosecute the begun execution of that Capitulation with all sincerity received this answer that the Kings Army was much lessened by the dismission of the Swissers and of those of Tuscany Urbane Parma and Lucca and by the death and running away of the Lombardy Regiments that the King was not obliged to disarme by the Articles of Asti and lesse upon new occasions to reassume Arms that notwithstanding he the Governour had for the intire observancy of the Capitulations offer'd the Duke reciprocal restitution of what had been taken which the Duke had refused and that not relying upon the words of two so good and so great Kings who offer'd to secure him from the Forces of the State of Millain he contrary to the said Capitulations had detained most of his men in Piedmont and therefore given new reason of jealousies and that notwithstanding he the Governour offer'd again the proposal of restitution and promised not to offend him if the Duke would resolve to observe the Capitulations intirely and that if he should refuse to do this he the Agent might witness this to the King to the end that he might be fully satisfied of the new preparations made by the Duke and of what he should hereafter do and that he might plainly see that he the Governour would proceed with such authority and reputation as became his King without obviating the peace The Governour gave this answer in writing to the Agent and made the same be given to the King by the Duke of Montelion in Paris who writ him word back that the King had approved thereof But the Prince of Conde the other confederates seemed to understand it otherwise whose authority by this new and advantagious agreement was then very great and got ground upon the King who by reason of his tender years was not yet constant in his Counsels and Resolutioâ—…s They therefore agreed to send an Embassadour into Italy and made choice of Philippo di Bettune a nimble-witted Gentleman and well experienced in the affairs of Italy where he had been Embassadour many years with the Pope from the King his Commission was to find out the Governour and press him to the perfect performance of the Treaty This mean while all things inclined daily to a manifest breach in Lombardy for new seeds of troubles being already sown the Duke arm'd strongly and so did the Governour the Duke threaâ—…ned to reassume the war in Montferrat by reason of the Duke of Mantua's backwardness to pardon the Rebels the Governour would quarter his men in that State not only to defend it from the Duke but also that he might be the readieâ—… to offend Piedmont and to the end tâ—…at the Duke of Savoy fearing to be assaulted neerer hand and as it were at his own doors might lay aside his thought of assaulting others But the Duke of Mantua refusing to receive forreign Souldiers into Montferrat the Princes of Italy storm'd thereat and chiefly the Duke of Savoy who from a â—…ore assailant being become a jealous Protector of that State did not only exclaim against it for his own interest but to raise suspicions of the Governour and of the Spanish Court and to make them be ill thought of by the Italians and renewing the ancient jealousies he gave out that under colour of defending and protecting Montferrat the Governour did fully intend to usurpe it and the Queen Mother exclaiming much against it in the Court of Spain the King of Spain commanded absolutely that it should be forborn At this time the Duke of Savoy increased in reputation it being given out that the French Embassadour came in favour to him who as it was said was sent from the Prince of Conde and from the consederates who managed the affairs of that Court as they listed and seemed to adhere sufficiently to his cause not was the tacite League between him the Duke and the Commonwealth of Venice of less consideration which being
him that for the good of the common peace and for the safety of Italy and of those States which â—…e the King did therein possess he would put the affairs of the Valtoline into so joyful a condition as might give satisfaction to all men The Letter either came not at all to the Kings hands or if it did it was at his very last time of life for he died after Paul the Fiâ—…th about the end of March the year 1621. a King who was more remarkable for his goodness and innocence of life then for any thing else for forgoing almost all business and medling but very little in the administration of affairs he retain'd little of a King more then the title and fortune a thing which did much prejudice the authority and greatness of the Crown which being goverâ—…'d by the interest of Favorites for the space of 22 years wherein he reigned and chiefly in his latter time he left it much faln from that height of reputation wherein he had received it from his Father He was succeeded by Philip the Fourth of that name the eldest of three Sons that he left behind him of about 16 years of age who though he gave some greater shew of a Royal inclination by which it was hoped that he would interest himself more in publick affairs then his Father had done yet his young years and the pastimes of youth not permitting him to partake of the troubles of publick Government the administration of affairs must necessarily fall into the former condition which the Spaniard call di Privanza or of affairs being carried by Court Minions The chief Ministers of Staâ—…e were Don Balâ—…esar di Zuniga and Don Gaspar di Gusman Count d' Olivares but Zâ—…niga who being long versed in weightiest affairs as well within as out of the Kingdom and who was highly esteemed by all men died not long after to the general grief of all so as the whole weight of Government leaned upon Olivares his Shoulders who being made a Duke by the new King and retaining still his former Title of Count would be called Conde Duca The Valtoline was that which the new King took first into his consideration wherein the Pope the Princes of Italy and the King of France had used their indeavours The new King would satisfie the joint desires of so many Princes and give a taste in this the beginning of his Reign of his being content with what was his own not desiring to usurp upon other mens states or upon the Liberty of the Italian Princes But because the interest of Religion was concern'd in this business that he might shew himself to be a no less pious and religious then wise and moderate King he agreed upon certain Articles with the French Embassadour the substance whereof was That the same Religion should be established in the Valtoline which was there used in the year 1617 And that the State should be restored to the same condition that it was in before the Rebellion That the Forts should be demollished and all Garisons removed from thence That all the Valtolinians should be pardoned for their Rebellion That the King of France Switzers and Vallesani should become sureties to the Grisons for the observance of what was agreed upon These Articles came from Madrid into Italy soon after the Capitulation of Millain and as they came unexpected by any for even those who did most desire it could not expect nor hope for such facile proceedings from that Court in so weighty a business and of such importance to that Court so the Duke of Feria and all those who out of a desire to advance the Spanish Grandezza had co-opperated in this business seeing their plots and designs wholly overthrown wherein they had taken so much pains were totally astonished not only for the prejudice which they thought would thereby redound to the State of Millain and to the other affairs of the Crown of Spain but for the loss of that ostentation glory and merit which Feria and the rest hoped to have reaped thereby Yet not being able to withstand the Kings so precise Orders and Commands they were forc'd to be content and not knowing from whence this resolution should proceed some laid the fault upon the new Kings weakness others upon the Orders and Commands of the late King who upon receiving the Popes Letters a little before he died charged his Son to desist from the enterprise of the Valtoline Others argued that the new King being too indulgently affectionate to his Wife who was sollicited by the French Embassadour was desirous to please her at her earnest desire in not coming to a breach with her Brother the King of France upon account of the Valtoline There were not some wanting who affirmed that Don Piedro di Tolledo out of private emulation that his successor should so happily effect this business which nor he nor so many others of his Predecessors could ever do did oppose in the Supream Councel of State to the end that Feria's actions might not be approved but rejected as the original and undoubted cause of great scandal and troubles Howsoever it was by the effects men may easily comprehend either a Repentance in theie Court of the thing capitulated for or according to others for there never wants sinister Interpreters an End rather to quiet the minds of the Italians and French much moved and incensed by tâ—…ese ese Capitulations then to put the thing capitulated for in execution Whilst this was negotiating in Spain the Valtoliniâ—…ns faâ—…ing well in Italy by reason of the Victory at Tirano and the Capitulations of Millain and Feria exclaiming sufficiently in the Court that by this resolution the King had lost so opportune and so important a purchase the execution of the Articles was defer'd but the Valtolinians exclaimed more then Feria as men who were sent thither on purpose by Feria They mingled tears with their perswasions and did infinitely desire the King That he would not abandon them nor force them to return under the antient yoke of Tyrants of Heretick Tyrants who would rise up not only against their lives and fortunes but even against their souls crying down the Catholick Religion in the Valtoline They desired him That he would inform himself fully what the condition of the Valtoline was formerly and what it was now as well in respect of their natural liberty as Religion for by the perfect knowledge of these two Points the cheat would be discern'd by which his Majesty was perswaded to condescend to those Articles And as for the first Point they shewed that the Valtolinians were naturally a free people not Subjects nor Vassals to the Grisons as his Majesty had been informed but their Companions and Confederates to whom neither they nor their fore-Fathers had never sworn fealty nor done homage or shewed any signe of subjection though by reason of the diversity of Religions their liberty after having for many years governed the common Republick jointly
Chamber in defence of the Valtoline which did appertain little or nothing to the Church but spare them for the eminent danger of the State of Urbine which speeches being accompanied with some other favourable Demonstrations to the French did trouble the Spaniards and made them very circumspect in the business of Urbino lest the Pope to make a greater conjunction with the King of France might probably precipitate the business of the Valtoline and yet being naturally very considerate he had two Consultations about the business of the Valtoline of the most conspicuous Theologists of the Court and most exemplary for holiness of life who having discus'd the business were of opinion that the Pope ought not to permit Catholicks to return under the yoke of Hereticks out of the evident danger of their souls which belonging to the Flock of our Saviour Christ it became him according to the Gospel to defend them like a good Shepherd from the Wolves though with the hazard of his own life Thus did the Affairs of the Valtoline alter out of several respects in that Court just like the ebbing and flowing of the Sea and the Pope not being resolved what to do in it that he might hold them both in hand temporized and delai'd his resolution but the French who whilst Gregory lived were quiet when they had a Pope who was their friend began to rouse up and to pretend that the Valtoline the Forts being demolished was to return under the Grisons command nor did they admit of any exception unless that for what concern'd the safety of the Catholick Religion the Pope should be the determiner this they said was dictated by the first Capitulations at Madrid and thus Reason and the King of France his Obligation to Protect the Grifons did require they persisted the more in these pretentions for that they saw their affairs were much altered for in the Spanish Court instead of alliance enmity with the English was increased the Spanish Army in Flanders and all the Forces of those States were busied before Breda a very strong Town of the Hollanders both for Situation Fortification and for its being triple fenced by water the taking of it was held impossible the Siege very long and of uncertain success the Hollanders having raised a strong Army to relieve it The Affairs of that Court had had but bad success in the Indies and in America for Ormuz a very strong Town situated in the mouth of Persia a principal place for Merchandize and of great annual revenue and of greater concernment for the command of the East-Indies was taken by those Barbarians they being assisted by English shipping the Baja de todes santos or All Saints Bay the chiefest staple Town of Brasile being perhaps in pursuance of the League of Avignon assaulted by a Holland Fleet was taken and sack'd which having had booty thâ—…re to the value of above two Millions of Ducates fortified themselves there intending further progress these were two mighty blows to the Crown of Spain which did oblige that King to send a powerful Army as he did to recover them and to boot that the event of these Affairs was uncertain they required great store of shipping multitudes of men and money nor were the wars of Germany yet wholly at an end for many Rebels of the Empire and whose Forces seemed rather to increase then to lessen did molest it in several places for the King of Denmark in conformity to the League at Avignon came into the Field very strong and had made himself head of the Protestant Princes who took up Arms against the Emperour to restore the Palatine to his Patrimonial State and who made great progress in the lower Germany On the contrary the Affairs of France which till now had been full of troubles and civil wars seemed to be brought into a safe Harbour and by several accidents to be in a better condition the King of England having broken the match with Spain had concluded a Marriage between his Son the Prince of Wales and a Sister to the King of France who was yet unmarried and joyning in League with him promised great things against the interest of Spain both by Sea and Land answerable to the League of Avignon and the tumults of France were either totally composed or it was in the Kings power to end them which accidents concurring at the same time were able to incite any Prince to novelties though never so much an enemy thereunto much more the King of France and French Nation who were so far interessed and ingaged in the business of the Valtoline and therefore though after many Consultations had in Rome between the Embassadours of Spain and France of themselves and afterwards with the Pope the Pope put forth at last some Articles touching the security in point of Religion amongst those of the Valtoline whereunto the Embassadour did agree and made others between themselves in their Kings name whereby the Valtoline when the Forts should be demolished was to return to be under the Grisons but with some Articles Conditions and upon pain of Escheat in case of swarving from the agreement and particularly with leave for the King of Spain to pass men thorow it yet the King of France accepting only those that were propounded by the Pope did absolutely refuse those that were agreed upon by the Embassadour and being highly offended with the Commandator Sillery who was his Embassadour he sent Monsieur di Bittune to succeed him and sent for Sillery back to France and did not only deprive him of his favour but removed his Brother who was Lord Chancellor and the Chancellors Son who was Secretary of State together with other of their dependants from their imployments being apprehensive as was said that they held some secret intelligence with the Court of Spain and being incensed against the King of Spain desired the Pope that he would either cause the Forts to be demolished or else restore them to the King of Spain to the end that he might make way to their demolishment without offence to the Apostolick See but the Articles of depositure withstood the demolishing and the restitution was gainsaid for fear of raising new wars between the two Kings so as look with how much more circumspection it became the Pope to proceed in his resolves so much more did the fervency of the French increase who not brooking any delay and seeing things in a way for war furthered the execution of the League and the preparations for all things requisite for what was resolved on But the Marriage which was just at this time in hand between Prince Phileberto of Savoy and Princess Maria Daughter to Francis late Duke of Mantua did either totally hinder or at least retard for the present the effects of so great a combination by which Treaty the Duke of Savoy who if he were not the head was a principal member of this League was diverted from the common Counsels The Spaniards had
new attempts and seeing the State of Millain almost freed of the Confederates Forces he sent some of his men under Don Martine d' Aragona to prejudice that Duke with order to quarter in those States and that without attempting any thing against the chief Cities he might over-run the Country to the end that the Duke being mortified by such losses and terrified by fear of greater might learn to know how unable he was to defend himself against the Kings incensed Forces Don Martine being entred into the State of Piacenza first freed Rottofreno from being besieged by the Dukes men drove away the assailants and killing and taking many of them prisoners pursued them to underneath the Walls of Piacenza he afterwards recovered the Castle St. Stephano for Prince Doria which was taken from him by the Dukes men and Cardinal Trivultio being entred at the same time by Orders from the Governour with a Regiment of Dutch into the States of Cremona and Lodi he drove out those that were placed there in Garrison in some Towns that the Duke had taken but a little before in those parts then passing over the Poe and joyning with l' Aragona he went to possess himself of the State called Palavicino by which acquisition all Commerce was almost interdicted between Parma and Piacenza many Towns of those Territories were afterwards taken and the Salt-pits were destroyed which brought in a great revenue and the Duke of Parma not able to keep the Field against the Spaniards retired to Piacenza where he was first besieged at a distance and closer afterwards it is a thing verywell worth observation to think how that Prince amidst so many adversities and being so neer utter ruine did notwithstanding keep so close to his first resolutions and how he kept his first hopes against all probability of not only obtaining his pretensions but even of being preserved from imminent ruine for though he had much reason not to doubt that the King of France who was his onely hope and who endeavoured now to get the Princes of Italy to adhere unto him would suffer that the first and almost onely one of those Princes and who so freely and so couragiously had declared for him and his Crown would suffer that he should now upon that account be opprest and ruined making him thereby an example to others how little they were in the like case to relie upon the protection of that Crown yet the Affairs of that King were at that time reduced to so bad a condition that they rather seemed to need being assisted by others then to assist others The Cardinal Infanta going from the Confines of Flanders with a gallant Army was entred Picardy and having taken La Capella and Corbie two principal places upon those Frontiers over-ran that Province victoriously and burning and sacking all before him he was advanced even to the Walls of Amiens and St Quintins And the King not having Forces in readiness to with-stand so sudden and so unexpected a storm caused Men and Armes to be tumultuously raised for the defence of Paris it self and by an Edict which the French in their Language call Arierban which is as much as to say the last Call which the Kings of France never make use of but in extream necessity he summoned all his Feudatories and all his Nobility to assist in defence of the publick safety which was then tottering Nor was this all the danger of that Kingdom for the Prince of Conde was forced to rise from before Dole a Town in Burgondy whither he had been sent a little before by the King with a powerful Army For Gallasso being assisted by people of the same County was entred Burgondy with a strong Army and over-running all the Towns thereof on this side the Some had taken Merabaule and was come to before St. Iean di Beaulme a Town standing upon the Some between Verdune and Shalloune Nor was this Kingdom in less danger on the parts towards Spain whither the King having sent a powerful Army commanded by the same Prince of Conde wherein were many Signieurs of France that served to assault Spain on that side and the Prince being encamped before Fonterabie a frontier Town of Spain over against Gascony he had reduced it to great extremity not without much danger to Spain if it had faln into the hands of the French as necessarily it must have done had not the Admiral of Castille come from Spain with 10000 Foot and 1500 Horse which passing over the Pirenean Mountains came unexpectedly to before Fonterabie just as it was upon Articles of surrender and freed it luckily for at the Admirals appearing the Prince of Conde raised the siege and the Admiral taking St. Iohn di Luz and besieging Bayonne over-ran Guascony plundering and bringing the parts thereabouts into composition how could the Duke of Parma expect or fancy unto himself any assistance from the King of France whilst his own Kingdom was so full of troubles and assaulted on so many sides and which was worse for him the French were almost gone all out of Italy and the Spaniards were increased in numbers and reputation and left untroubled by that League which was intended for their ruine He saw apparently that could not be diverted from prejudicing him nay the Governour of Millain having heard that some few French who were yet in Cassalle were ready to pass over to Piacenza in boats when they should see the Poe swolne with water had ordered that a Steccado should be made over that River neer Valenza to withstand those Forces and had a good Garrison to be placed there to oppose those boats and all others who should go upon that River And the Governour had given order to Cardinal Trivultio to have an eye to those parts who fearing lest some Mantuans and some of the State of Venice not being able to enter the nearest way into the Dukes States might by way of diversion assault the State of Cremona or of Lodi he went first with the men that were assigned him to the frontiers of those Counties to defend them from any incursion so as that Prince was excluded from any succour on every side There was onely one loop-hole left open from which he might hope for safety amidst these so many streights which was the King of France his Fleet at that time come into the Ligustick Sea as shall be said in its proper place But to boot with the hindrance as shall be said which the Spanish Gallies gave to the landing of the French Fleet keeping it from landing its men the Governour who was himself with part of his Army in Alessandria stood ready to oppose any who should land in relief of the Duke or to prejudice the State of Millain This was the condition of this Dukes Affairs and to fill up all his misfortunes the Emperour after having taken the Duke of Saxony off from the Protestant League and brought him by the peace of Prague to side with him he
and by the military men that were theâ—…e present and afterwards was sworn the same in Turin by the supream Senate of Piedmont and by the particular decree of the same Senate and by all Magistrates Feudatories Subjects and Vassals of the Ducal house and in all this no mention was made of the Princes nor durst any seem thereat distasted and yet the sequel proved that though the former carriage and present conditions of Dowager Dutchess naturally born to Govern were satisfactory to all and Universally acceptable yet many of the Piedmonteses out of an inward affection and devotion to their natural Princes were not well pleased that they should be excluded but the evident knowledge that their exclusion proceeded not from the Dowager and that she had no hand therein did not only acquit her from so much rigour in the opinion of the world but was a powerful lenitive to mollifie the minds of those Piedmonteses who were well inclined to the Princes and many of them considering more wisely how many inconveniences the plurality of Gaurdians had occasioned in other States setting all other respects aside were better pleased that the Regency should be restrayn'd to one alone then diffused into many and it being agreed upon by all that the Mothers right was to be preferred before any other Competitour they were not onely not displeased that it should be in the Dowager but did willingly give way unto it as justest and safest for the State and for the publick quiet One of the first things the new Regent did was to send messengers to both these Princes to acquaint them with the Duke their Brothers dâ—…ath and how she had taken upon her the Guardianship of her Children and the Regency of the State and withal how displeased the King of France was with them both and acquainting them how strong the French Forces were in Piedmont she admonished them and did earnestly exhort them that they would keep where they were at the present lest if they should come into Piedmont they might fall into some great inconveniency by some orders that the King of France might give to his Commanders which it would not be in her power afterwards to divert and telling them how that all this was done against her will she exhorted them that they would endeavour to appease the Kings anger and by joyning with him again get into his former good opinion to the end that they might all of them joyntly co-operate to the young Dukes quiet and safety and as a token of her good will towards them she promised to make speedy payment of the Arrears and for the future of their annual allowances called in French Appenage which were sequestred from Prince Thomaso by the late Duke after the battel of Avein because he had carried Arms there against his confederate the King and as for the Prince Cardinal though they were not absolutely sequestred they were detained or but slowly pay'd for his having past over from one protection to another nothing could disturb the calm commencement of the Dowagers Regency as it was thought but fear of the Spanish forces if they should take upon them to maintain the Princes pretences and should strive to bring the Princes into Piedmont and into the Regency of the State by meer force which was not very unlikely by reason of the requisite jealousie which Piedmont being to be governed by the Dowager who was so straitly united to the Crown of France might with good reason bring to the State of Millain and she was much troubled that she could no further be friend them by reason of the League which continued yet for some Moneths with the Crown of France Fortune which would also have her share in these Ruptures did miraculously assist her herein for the Spanish Agents who governed the affairs of that Crown in Italy reflecting upon the condition of Piedmont as it was now altered by the Dukes death and foreseeing the tempests which were likely to fall upon that State considered also what might redound to the State of Millains and to the Kings affairs in Italy by those alterations Wherefore weighing the business well and conferring together by Letters and Messengers when they had discuss'd all thing considerately they were all of one mind that to avoid all inconveniencies they must not distaste the Dowager in her regency nor cause any jealousies in her And the Court of Spain being acquainted with this their resolution did approve of it out of the great desire they had to see the Affairs of Italy quieted the said Agents doubting that the Dowager would be compelled by the King of France to renew the league which he had contracted with the late Duke and desiring to be assured of her and to assure her they propounded unto her that the King would be obliged not to molest her in her Regency but would assist her strongly if she would joyn in League with him and help to drive the French out Piedmont and not allow passage for the future to the Forces of that Crown thorough her Dominions And lastly that he would endeavour to make the Princes her Brothers in law observant to her so as she would give each of them what did of right belong unto them It appeared clearly that the Spaniards by their offers labour'd more to accommodate their own Affairs then to favour those of the Dowager which if she should accept of these offers would run apparent ruine since she could not but draw her Brothers enmity upon her by adhering to his Enemies without manifest danger Wherefore being desired by Abbot Vasques an Agent for the Governour of Millain that she would send some trusty person to Genoa with whom he might by Order from the King negotiate some Affairs to the common good and satisfaction when she heard by Cavalier Olgiato whom she sent to Genoa what Vasques proposals were she answer'd freely That she had alwayes nourish'd thoughts of Peace and that she would be alwayes ready to quench any fire which might be kindled wherein she would engage her self to the utmost of her power therein But that she could by no means nor did it any wayes suit with her to enter into Warr against France upon the account of Spain nor to separate her self from her Brother in the present conjuncture of times And that since she had restored their Appenages to the Princes her Brothers in law which was sequestred from them by the late Duke and treated with them as civilly and with as much affection as the present condition of Affairs would permit her to do she knew not what they could pretend unto more nor wherein else the King upon this account would interpose himself And she was so stead fast to this as she would not consent to stand neuter between the two Crowns though she was much press'd thereunto by the Abbot alledging that during the League it was not lawful for her to make such a promise So as the Spanish Agents seeing they could
a day of Battel neer the City Wherein the Spanish Army being Victors it goes before that City whither the Duke was withdrawn with his men about which the Governour having imployed much time to little purpose At last peace is concluded by the means of Princes Ministers 59 BOOK IV. The King being but badly satisfied with the peace of Asti makes Don Pietro di Toledo Governour of Millain Between whom and the Duke new differences arise â—…ouching the execution of the Articles of peace The Venetians by reason of the Slavonians who molest their Navigation in the Gulf make war in Friuli against the Arch-Duke and in Istria against the Emperour and possessing themselves of many Towns in Friuli come before Gradisca from whence they depart not many days after by reason of Treaties of Agreement which were introduced The Duke of Savoy complaining still of the not observance of peace fears to be again assaulted by the Governour and therefore prepares for war again He joins under-hand with the Venetians and calls Diguieres Marshal of France into Piedmont but is quickly and unexpectedly assaulted in Savoy by the Duke de Nemours who is somented with monies and promises from the Governour of Millain The King of France to provide against the commencing uproars in Lombardy sends Monsieur di Bettuve thither and the Pope Monsignore Lodovisio Arch-Bishop of Bologna Preparations for a new war are renewed in the State of Millain and in Piedmont which is again begun betwixt the Duke and the Governour who draws neer the Confines of Piedmont with an Army 113 BOOK V. The Duke unexpectedly assaults the Spanish Army which was entred his State and being beaten retreats to Assigliano From whence finding that the enemy went to possess themselves of Crescentino he departs and speedily preventing them defends it The Spanish Army take Santya and San Germano The Duke endeavouring to keep back their Victuals was forc'd to come to a Battel where he was again worsted The Popes Nuntio and the French Embassadour hold the Governours Forces in hand by introducing new Treaties of Peace In the interim the Marquess of Mortara entering le Langhe takes many of the Dukes Castles and Don Sanchio di Luna takes Gattinara Winter coming on the Governour fired Santya and leaving a Garrison in St. Germano sends the resi of his Army into their Quarters and retires into the State of Millain The Duke the Prince his Son being come to him from Savoy and the Marshâ—… Diguieres from France with new men takes the Principality of Messerano and makes himself master of San Damiano Alba and Monteggio Towâ—… in Montferrat Wherefore Mortara firing Canelli abandons the Langhe The Marshal being sent for back by the King returns with his men to France The Venetians whilest they are busying themselves to little purpose in Friuli are molested at Sea by the Spanish Fleet sent by the Viceroy of Naples into the Gulf which not being able to draw the Venetian Fleet to fight take three Gallies richly fraught 149 BOOK VI. The Governour of Millain goes with his Army to before Vercelles and besieging it on all sides and the Town not being able to be relieved after a long Siege he takes it upon Articles The Capitulations of Peace as well for what concern'd Piedmont as Friuli are Treated of in the Court of Spain and are concluded in the Court of France as also at Madrid The Duke of Savoy being assisted by the French who came into Piedmont after the Surrender of Vercelles takes some Towns in Montferrat and in Allessandria And at last in pursuance of the Capitulations stipulated in the Courts of France and Spain the Peace is concluded in Pavia between the Governor of Millain and the French Embessador The Viceroy of Naples sends some â—…lieoons into the Gulf in defence of the Ragâ—…siens who were vex'd by the Venetian â—…t which Galleoons get the better in fight of the Venetians A Conspiracy is discovered in Venice and some rumours are spread abroad upon the Confines of Venice toward Millain between the Spanish Souldiers and those of the Commonwealth which being appeased a period is put to the war and Italy is restored to her former peace 186 BOOK VII In this seventh Book you have the condition of the affairs of Italy after the appeasement of the War of Piedmont The death of two Popes as also the death of the King of Spain and of the Emperour The Insurrections in the Valtoline the occasion of new rumours which arose from hence in Italy of new jealousies and of new Leagues made by many Princes against the Crown of Spain The Forts of the Valtoline deposited into the Popes hands The Prince of Wales his Iourney into Spain The Prince of Urbin's death and the approaching Escheat of that State And lastly the seeds of new troubles rising between the Genoese and the Duke of Savoy by reason of their having purchased the Fee-farm of Zuccarello whereat the Duke was displeased Here are also touched by way of passage some accidents of Warr which hapned in Germany Flanders and in the East and West-Indies 212 BOOK VIII In this Eighth Book you have the Description of the Commonwealth of Genoa her Interest and good Correspondency with the Crown of Spain The Diet held at Susa wherein two attempts are resolved upon the one against the Valtoline the other against Genoa for the execution whereof many preparations are made both in France and in Italy The French fall down into the Valtoline under the conduct of the Marquess of Coure and driving the Churches Forces from the Forts which were deposited in the Popes hands they make themselves masters thereof they likewise fall down into Piedmont under de Diguieres Grand Constable and joyning with the Duke of Savoy and with his Forces go to the Enterprise of Genoa and proceed far in that State the Pope sends his Nephew Legate into France The Genoeses are reduced into a very dangerous condition by hostile Arms. 257 BOOK IX By relief of Monyes and Victuals sent from Spain and Men from Naples Genoa is comforted in the midst of her troubles she is encouraged by the wants of the Enemies Army and through the disagreeing of their Commanders and is at last wholly freed by Friends coming into the Fiâ—…ld with a powerful Army The Enemies Army retreats from the Enterprise of Genoa anâ—… attempts Savona but being overtaken by Feria retires to Piedmont Feria takes the City of Acqui he goes afterwards to Asti and from thence to Verrua where he stays long to little purpose lâ—…aving many of his men and being forc'd to give over the Enterprise returns with his Army much lessened into the State of Millain many actions happen at the same time in the besieging and defending of Riva di Chiavenna wherein the Spaniards have still the better of the French they drive the French at last out of the Valtoline and raise the Siege of Riva The English Fleet falling upon Spain there is repuls'd and
their own Interests to assist him so to secure themselves from the Spanish Forces whilst they were entertain'd by him the Duke and diverted from their Dominions confining upon the State of Millain And since this War began just at that time and had much connexion with that of Piedmont and because it hapned in Italy it is proper to our present History and it will be necessary that taking it from its original it be described by us equally with that of Piedmont and distinctly related The Venetian for some hundreds of years since pretend to the Sovereignty of the Adriatick Sea now called the Gulf of Venice and have long maintain'd it more by the authority of a powerful Fleet then by any ground of ancient concession or just title by virtue whereof inhibiting many neighbouring people the freedom of Navigation they do not suffer them to transport their Merchandize freely through that Sea into forreign parts nor that any such be brought from forreign parts to their Havens and Shore And as it makes much for the advantage and grandezza of that Commonwealth that the Inhabitants of the Gulf and Forreigners who sail through it do not only put in at Venice and pay a great tribute to the Commonwealth and that the said Inhabitants provide themselves with things necessary from that City so on the contrary it redounds to the prejudice of the same people not to be able to make use of their own Sea without paying Taxes nor carry that wherein their Country abounds through it to other parts nor furnish themselves with necessaries from elsewhere for the Venetians are wont to send forth some Gallies to guard that Gulf and do not only seize on such Vessels as sail for other parts contrary to their Inhibition but confiscate the Merchandize and strangely molest the Masters and Passengers The neighbouring people and Princes did always gainsay these pretensions complaining that the use of the Sea which by the Law of Nations was free to all men was interdicted them by this Commonwealth and how that she used more respect to those that were more powerful But those of Trieste did always repugne and those of ancient Liburnia were more contumacious then they who are now called Sclavonians who as being members of the Kingdom of Hungary are under the Archduke of Austria and they have always questioned it and debated it with the Venetians not without the tacite knowledge of their Princes who being busied in more weighty Wars with the Turks and not-being able either by forces or by endeavours to alter the Commonwealth thought it at last to be their only remedy for that sore to bring into those parts some of the people of Croatia who were commonly called afterwards Uscocchi Croates or Cravates a fierce and couragious people and who valued not life who being there as a thorn in the eyes of the Commonwealth might to the best of their power make good the liberty of Navigation upon those Seas to tâ—…e Archdukes Subjects To these instead of stipend Pyracy was at first permitted but only against the Turks as common Enemies and Fâ—…es to their Prince abusing which permission against the Venetians Vessels or being willing to treat them alike for the Venetians persecuted them they afforded the Commonwealth reason of complaint which not prevailing they resented the injury so far as they resolved to extermine that whole Nation professing that so to do was not only necessary for freeing the Gulf from Pyrates but also as they alledged to provide that the Turk being irritated by the Uscocchi's or Croaâ—…es's injuries might not send powerful Fleets into the Gulf not only to the danger of their Dominions but to those of other Princes which they possess upon those Seas Thus making their own cause common to all the Commonwealth began of her self alone to provide against it and endeavouring more to remove the effect then the cause of the malady they went against them and began to prosecute them as Pyrates and publick Robbers who being already much increased in number for many driven thither by the barrenness of their Countrey and allured by the profit of pillage and many banish'd vagabond Italians and particularly such as were Subjects to the Venetians flock thither as to lawful prey of great gain and growing much more powerful by their numbers and more cruel by reason of the losses they had suffer'd by being persecuted by the Commonwealth they were very cruel in their Piracy throughout that whole Sea and in all the neighbouring Havens and Islands and coming sometimes even to within a few miles of Venice her self they took Vessels even almost in her sight insomuch as they grew so terrible to Navigators and so dreadful through their cruelty as the Commonwealth without the Archdukes trouble or expence began to make trial of those sufferings which she had formerly indeavoured to make the neighbouring people undergo and as they could hardly suppress their insultings with the Venetian greater Vessels the yareness and multitude of Boats wherewith they scoured up and down in several parts being considered as also the vicinity of their friends Country whither they fled when chas'd by the Venetian Vessels and the condition of the Sclavonian seas and shores which being full of Rocks and narrow Channels made by the many little Islands and Flats are scarcely navigable for greater Vessels so did the agreements and stipulations often made between the Common-wealth and the Archduke stand them but in little stead for though the one promis'd to keep in the Cravates and the other to leave the sea open and free neither party being willing to prejudice the main of their pretentions they inserted some clause or other in the close of each convention whereby leaving the controverted point touching the liberty of the Gulf undecided neâ—…ther the difference between those Princes was composed nor yet were the promises made and agreed upon between them kept the point of freedom of Navigation put off to another time and the permission of free Commerce at sea as it had been formerly had being incompatible which incompatibility occasioned the one the mean while to pretend unto and the other to prohibit the freebooting of the Uscocchi or Cravates they being long accustomed to pillage and urged by poverty and necessity to live from hand to mouth which they were not able to do but by rapine the Covenants agreed upon must needs be broken and the Gulf must necessarily remain subject to the former molestations The Common-wealth finding no more ready nor opportune remedy began to pretend that to extirpate the evil as they said by the roots that whole Nation should be removed from the Maritime parts But this meeting with many difficulties at last in the year 1612. an agreement was come unto almost of the same contents and with the same clause of reservation as before between the Emperour Mathias to whom the places inhabited by the Croats belonged and the Archduke Ferdinando to whom the Emperour his
furnish'd with so many Foot and Commanderâ—… as did supply their ordinary Garrisons as well in their Forts in the Levant and in Dalmatia aâ—… on Tâ—…ra forma for the Pope professing to be outwardly a Neuâ—…er in all these Occurrences but being in effect very much unsatisfied with the Venetianâ—… by reason of the great disgusts between him and them in the beginning of his Popedom he was more fevere then any other Prince in prohibiting his subjects to assist them Wherefore the Duke of â—…arma were it either in respect of the Popes Orders of whom he held in â—…ee or out of the near interests and intelligence which he held with the Crown of Spain being offendâ—…d with his Son Don Ottaviâ—… whom he loved dearly though he was illegitimate condemned him to perpetual imprisonment for his forwardness to serve the Venetians The Duke of Modena shewed little less anger against his second Son Luigi whom he banish'd for going to serve the Venetians against the Dominions which were under the 〈◊〉 Empire whereof he was a Feudatory And the Duke of Urbiâ—… who had formerly received great pay from the Common-wealth for being their Captain General upon occasion of war as his Ancestors had been having of late years found some difference in geting his stipend the Common-wealth growing weaty of that continual charge now that they believed well in the peace of Italy had some years beâ—…ore sided with the Crown of Spain from whence he received better and readier day so as they could not build upon him in their present â—…ed In this great difficulty and streights of men and mony the Common-wealth was forced to call in her Feudatoris and all other her subjects who were in service under any other Princes and to pardon all their Banditti though for whatsoever heâ—…nous offence but that which seemed more uneasie and of greater importance these Provisions being very scarce and far short of the present occasions they placed the Traâ—…ed-Bands of their Country in their Garrisons in Terra forma towards the Sâ—…ate of Millain and drew out the best Souldiers fâ—…om thence to make use of them in the Camp to the no little wonder of all that knew that that Commonwealth which was formerly wont to be careful in Arming their Confine upon the State of Millain whensoever they â—…ard the least news of Arms in that State and to recruit those very Garrisons with Forreigners and to provide so well for tâ—…at part of their 〈◊〉 as 〈◊〉 it had been undoubtedly to be assaulted should now 〈◊〉 â—…ey knew there was an Army on foot in the State of Millain and tâ—…at 〈◊〉 Spaâ—…ards threatned â—…o interest themselves in that war on the Arcâ—…dukes behalf unfurnish that Frontier of their best Souldiers and should trust tâ—…e defence of those places of such importance in the hands of their Country Milâ—…a or Trained-Bands which were unexperienced in war Next all this not being sufficient to serve their needs they betook themselves to Albania Morea and to Braccio di Maino seeking to get from thence at great rates as many men as possibly they could And for their last refuge these not sufficing they were at a very great charge in taking a Regiment of 4000 Hollanders into pay who were to be brought by shipping to Venice which provisions being couragiously ordered and executed with no less expence and even to the end of that war constantly and by general consent increased though they witnessed the unanimity of their minds and the readiness of that Government to uphold the publick dignity and enterprises resolved upon by publick Authority yet so great a scarcity of Souldiers did not only prejudice the conceived reputation of the Venetian power being so necessitated at the beginning of the war to borrow mony of Forreigners and not finding much that way to ingage her self to her own Citizens in little more then one year for above a Million of monies did not a little lessen the opinion which was commonly held of their publick Treasure which was held to be the richest of all Italian Princes though to preserve their credit they gave out that they would rather spare the publick monies even at the greatest need and at the present take up at interest from private men then by wasting it when they might make use of other mens monies be forced afterwards to depend upon the will of others which though it was not then believed was afterwards proved to be true by the event For the Common-wealth having had many occasions of vast expences in this war yet she contrary to the opinion of all men found means to supply all the necessities which came upon her with the publick monies wherein she was never found to withdraw from not only what was necessary but from what was useful or fitting for any whatsoever difficulties or want of ready monies and it was affirmed by those who were well experienced in their affairs that the Common-wealth upon this occasion spent above 14 Millions of Duckets True it is that their Taxes and Impositions were very great throughout the whole State which grew thereby much indebted and that all that not sufficing the whirepool of war they ran her in debt afterwards for more then eight Millions These were the preparations for the war of Friuli but not being able otherwise to provide against the danger of the Spanish forces upon the confines of Millain they did it by making a 〈◊〉 League with the Duke of Savoy who standing more in need of mony then of men to boot with many provisions which they furnished them withal they lent him great sums of mony to the end that persisting still in his pretention of not laying down Arms he might inforce the Governour to disarm or that if he would not disarm they might keep him so imploy'd as he should not be well able to assault theâ—…r Confines They also caused monies to be paid to the Marquess of Castiglione in France to bring him in to assist the Duke in Piedmont with 4000 Foot and 4â—…0 Horse though because the execution of the Treaty at Asti was not totally off the hooks it was noised abroad that Castiglions French men were raised to assist the Venetians not the Duke of Savoy And though these provisions by reason of delay could not ease the present need of the Camp for it was said that powerful aids were preparing in Germany by the Germane Princes to assist the Archduke yet the Common-wealths Army being somewhat increased the Senate that it might not lye idle but that it might attempt somewhat worthy of the Forces and honour of Venice ordered it to go and expugne Gradisca This place was governed by Count Richard Strasoldo and by him fortified and though Captain Iohn Peirino a Walloon was entered thereinto with 300 Curassiers and Dragoons as soon as the enemy drew near it General Trautmistorft entered by the River with about 1200 Musqueteers and having incouraged the Souldiers and Citizens with promises of daily succour he
performance of the Peace of Asti was reserved for the last and for the satisfaction of the Dukâ—… of Savoy Count Gualdo's Restauration to the which none being obliged by the Articles of Asti but the King of France who ingaged himself for it it appeared impossible that the Duke of Mantua should ever be brought to consent thereunto neither would nor could the King of Spain in reason compel him thereunto but as Protector of Montferrat he was bound to defend it as he had formerly promised to do against all the delinquents of that State Yet the King of France being much concerned in seeing the Duke of Savoy satisfied by what he had undertaken by the Capitulations of Asti and the Duke threatning new Commotions against Montferrat which was not likely to have succeeded without the consent and assistance of the King of France who was distasted at the Duke of Mantua's so great obdurancy both the Kings having therefore acquainted the Duke of Mantua with the new inconveniencies which were likely to insue and also desired him by their Embassadours that he would pardon Count Guido the Duke preferring Peace and the publick good before his private revenge and anger and being also moved by the example of both those Kings who as also their Fathers Princes of so great Authority had pardoned more hainous Delinquents resolved at last to pardon him and to restore him to his former Estate and Honour whereby the wished for end was put to the Wars of Piedmont and Montferrat which certainly would have put Italy into her former peaceful condition for there was nothing more desired by the Court of Spain then this had not the Statists in Italy by new and unthought of accidents ingaged her in new Wars against her Will and Genius The End of the Sixth Book THE HISTORY OF THE WARS OF ITALY Book VII The Contents IN this seventh Book you have the condition of the affairs of Italy after the appeasement of the War of Piedmont The death of two Popes as also the death of the King of Spain and of the Emperour The Insurrections in the Valtoline the occasions of new rumours which arose from hence in Italy of new jealousies and of new Leagues made by many Princes against the Crown of Spain The Forts of the Valtoline deposited into the Popes hands The Prince of Wales his Iourney into Spain The Prince of Urbin's death and the approaching Escheate of that State And lastly the seeds of new troubles rising between the Genuese and the Duke of Savoy by reason of their having purchased the Fee farm of Zuccaâ—…ello whereat the Duke was displeased Here are also touched by way of passage some accidents of War which hapned in Germany Flanders and in the East and West-Indies THe present Peace of Italy being procured by the unanimous consent of the two Kings and by the Venetians so great cunning was commonly thought would continue long and that the affairs of this Province agitated by so many and so various pâ—…rturbations would now be in quiet for the two Crowns being taught by the last Occurrences began to know what prejudice their reciprocal fomenting of each others Rebels and Enemies was to their Authority and that being now joyn'd in good intelligence they should give the Law to all and compel all lesser Potentates to reverence them and to depend upon their pleasure and they seemed to â—…e so cemented together by their mutual advantage and interest as no fear was to be had of any future breach between them wherefore though the Duke of Savoy was not fully satisfied with the Peace yet having lost the leauingstock of France and the being fomented by the Venetians his discontentment was not to be feared chiefly since finding palpably by the peaces being concluded by the Venetians without his intervening or participation that that Commonwealth had assisted him more for their own private ends then for the good of the common cause it had totally deprived him of placing any future hope in them and if when he was joyn'd with them and upheld by the French he had got no other good by so many wars by such labours and dangers then the bare venting of his anger and some satisfaction that he had been the first of all the Italian Potentates that had dared to withstand the Spanish Forces which were formerly held so formidable by all Italy and mortal to whosoever should provoke them what could he hope for or pretend â—…nto without them and yet the King of Spain fearing lest the Dukes dissatisfaction might occasion new troubles in Italy and that the unconformity of his humour with that of his the Kings Agents in Italy mighâ—… afford fuel for new fire he sent for Don Pietro di Tolledo back to Spain and made Don Gomez Alvarez di Figuerâ—…a and Cordova Duke of Feria Governour of Millain in his place a Gentleman of a more benigne and temperate spirit not by inclination any way averse to the Dukes affairs as Don Pietro had appeared to be and the King did not only shew some dislikes of Don Pietro's comportments but gave precise command to the new Governour to have a great care to keep peace in Italy and to live neighbourly with her Potentaâ—…es and more particularly that he should study by all possible means how to sweeten the Duke of Savoy and to regain his good will which was much aliâ—…nated by the late acciâ—…ents and not herewithall satisfied he for the same respects removed Rodorigâ—… Orasca Marquess of Mortara from the Government of Alessandria and had like to have done so to by Don Iohn Vives both of them being thought to be well-wishers to Novelty and the Dukes enemies and for that the latter was not very acceptable to the Commonwealth of Genoa But his long experience in the affairs of Italy wherein he had been long vers'd and his not having any occasion to meddle directly in the Dukes affairs kept him in his former place Satisfaction was likewise indeavoured to be given to the Venetians so great a desire was there not to cause any more troubles in Italy wherefore the Marquess of Belmar Resident Embassadour in Venice was at the earnest desire of that Commonwealth removed from thence and sent to be Resident Embassadour in Flanders The Viceâ—…oy of Naples had also precise orders sent him to restore the Mahouns and the Merchandize which was taken in the Gulf and not long after at the pressure of the Neapolitans another was sent to succeed Ossuna and a certain difference arising between the Officeâ—…s in Millain and those of the Commonwealth by reason of the usual passage of Souldiers who going from the Territories of Millain to those of Cremona touched upon some part of a controverted Territory the King caused the business to be decided with satisfaction to the Venetians and the new Governour Feria who was very desirous to preserve peace and to pluck up all occasions by the roots which might occasion new Ruptures between the Dukes of Savoy
not therewithal contented as not being willing by any means in a business of so great concernment and importance to depend upon anothers will subject to so many casualties and accidents of Variation which might peradventure happen And because the business of the Palatinate grew more difficult the King of Spain keeping himself within the bounds of not promising any effectualy estitution which the Prince of Wales desired and pretended that it was promised affirming that he would use his Authority and best indeavours with the Emperour to whom he said the inteâ—…est of concession did chiefly belong and upon whom the disposal of that State did absolutely depend men began therefore daily to suspect more and more that the Court of Spain having been from the beginning intentionally and inwardly against the Match they had only cunningly held on the Treaty partly out of their own ambition and Grandezza partly for the Honour of the Prince whom they seemed to esteem very highly but chiefly that they might gain time and advance the mean while in the business of the Valtoline Which the Prince percerving he parted from that Court after he had been six Moneths there without having made any conclusion and imbarking in a Fleet which was come from England to re-conduct him he returned to his own Kingdom carrying with him implacable hatred grievous complaints revenge and enmity instead of friendship and a Wife Here I the Translator of this Book must crave leave both of my Author and Reader which if it may not be granted me I will presume to take to insert a passage which then happened and does relate to this Story it being a full and perfect Vindication of a scandalous imputation laid by some black back-biting Dogs nay foul-mouth'd Curs upon this then glorious Prince my since blessed King and now and for ever that undoubtedly happy Saint in Heaven King Charles late Monarch of Great Britain and Ireland they being defirous to make the world believe by their scurrilous speeches and writings that this pious conscientious and religious King was a Papist in his heart and intended to introduce Popery into this Land And truly since it falls out so pat and so aptly here I cannot forbear doing it though I know it be unusual and contrary to custome for Translators to adde any thing of their own and this it was I Who had the honour to be bred up with this hopeful Prince and who account it my greatest happiness to have known him and to have been known by him when he was King having heard a street Report that this Infanta his then Mistress and since Wife to the King of Hungary was turned Lutheran according to the gratious freedom his Majesty was always used to afford me I told him of it one day when he was at Dinner upon the hearing whereof His ever blessed Majesty was pleased to say Harry if this be true I am confident I know who turn'd her which I desiring to know who it might be His Majesty answered Padre Rohose This Padre Rohose said His Majesty when I came to Spain was Confessor to the Infanta and in the absence of the Kings Confessor was also Confessor to the King He was one said His blessed Majesty who gave very diligent attendance upon me when I came first to Spain and for two or three Moneths space never failed to wait upon me when I was at Dinner insomuch as some acquaintance being grown between us he one day moved me that a Disputation might be had in publick between my Chaplains and some of the King of Spains Priests in point of Religion affirming that he knew it would be very pleasing to the Infanta I answered no saying I came not hither to turn nor to be turned in my Religion by any publick Argumentations nor have I any such Commission from the King my Father but rather a Command to the contrary but if you Padre Rohose have any thing to object against the Religion which I profess I will give you the hearing in private Padre Rohose being glad that he had got thus much began to object somewhat against the Religion profess'd in my Fathers Dominions at the beginning whereof said the Prince laying his hand upon the others Arm No Padre Rohose this is not the way this is to Dispute de non concessis But let me give you an account of my Faith and of the Tenents of my Religion first and then if you have any thing to object speak your mind freely Padre Rohose being herewith content as surely he had good reason the Prince began and made him a full and true relation of the Tenents of his Religion which when he had done Rohose replyed Sir do you believe all this Yes said the Prince And will your Highness give me leave said Padre Rohose to affirm this to others from your mouth Yes said the Prince do it boldly for this is the Religion I was born in and bred up in the Religion which is profess'd in my Fathers three Kingdoms and wherein by the Grace of God I am resolved to live and dye Why then said Padre Rohose for ought I know Sir you may be saved as well as I. My blessed King having told me this I asked His Majesty whether Rohose did not object any thing against what His Majesty had said Not at the present replied His Majesty but some few days after he took me aside and began to alledge some trivial things against what he had heard me say to which said the King I gave him such an Answer as I heard no further news of Padre Rohose for a good while whereat marvelling not a little I wonder said the Prince one day in publick why Padre Rohose hath not visited me of late What is become of him To which he was answered by a whisper in the ear That the Priest Rohose was forbidden coming any more to the Prince his Court left instead of his converting the Prince the Prince should convert him I could not omit mentioning this remarkable Passage here since as I said before I had so pat an occasion to do it and since it was to my self that His blessed Majesty was pleased to make this Relation upon the aforesaid occasion And upon the Faith of a Christian and Word of a Gentleman this is the full sence and as near as I can remember the very words His ever blessed Majesty was pleased to do me the honour as to tell me which though they wrought nothing upon me more then what I did formerly know and did confidently believe if they be not able to stop the mouths of those slanderous companions and make them bite out those Tongues wherewith they have indeavoured to throw dirt upon the Memory of His Sacred Majesty yet at least his constant perseverance in the profession and witnessing his Faith at his unpresidented death me thinks should make them do it And now to pursue my Authour again These practises made the French grow cooler as I have
Highness very well knows and shall we think that they who have sold so little a Town at so dear a rate will be ready to throw open their Gates that they will so easily give themselves their Wives Children and Riches in prey to us let not oh let not the too immoderate desire of Victory the too great thirst after glory and revenge make us too rash and let us not be misled by vain intelligence with discontented people wherein the total of our lives and reputations does depend nor let us not place the ground-work of our Enterprize upon the peoples confusion and sudden fear for I protest and declare that we shall assuredly be deceived if we carry with us no other preparations no other inforcements for Victory and for our own escape the intelligence and plots of malecontents may easily be discovered and hush'd they may be withheld by the coming of new succours changed by the alteration of success vanish through the difficulty of performance or suppress'd by the diligence of the Governour a little time appeases hidden commotions a small opposition curbs popular insurrections and by what we hear of the union and good order of that City we have more reason to fear then to hope for Victory and I who have some experience of the worlds affairs as I build somewhat upon such occasions and accidents when Forces are adequate to the Enterprize so where I finde them inferiour I have always thought them to be but baits to ruine and to the destruction of those that lay the ground-work of their successe thereupon The Duke replied many things whereby to draw the Constable over to his opinion sometimes shewing him that being so far advanc'd they could not without much shame forbear prosecuting sometimes endeavouring to free him from the fear of the State of Millain by telling him in what straights of men and money the Duke of Feria was sometimes that the French Forces had the better of it in the Valtoline and were Conquerors on that side who would at the same time fall there upon the State of Millain sometimes mentioning the Venetians who being ready to break into war upon the account of Cremona and Giaradadda would reduce that Governour to a condition of rather needing succour then of succouring that therefore they were to make use of the reputation and heat of Victory which doth oft time bring Enterprises to a happy end though they be otherwise impossible and despâ—…rate to the appearing of all humane reason that all sinister events ought not to be thought upon which may intervene in humane actions since there are none so certain nor so surely grounded which may not be hindred by a thousand accidents upon which he who would fix his eye too attentively must not hope to do any thing that many things were to be left to Fortune which bearing a great sway in all humane actions but particularly in those of War doth commonly assist bold and couragious actions that it could not be long ere the Fleâ—…ts would arrive the necessity whereof he out of many considerations did not much value But the Constable demanding finally provisions to maintain the Army for at least three moneths beyond the Apenine before he would move from those quarters where he was and not long after these Disputes news coming that great succours were come to Genoa from Naples and Sicily the execution of this so great Enterprise was almost quite given over The Duke being necessitated to steer on his course resolved to shun lying idle and loss of time to turn part of his men towards the Western River which by the Capitulations of Susa were assigned over to him and where he understood the Genoese had taken Oneglia from him together with all the Valleys of that Country and were entred into that of the neighbouring Prela he gave the charge hereof to the Prince who forgoing for then to attempt Savona turn'd upon Pieve the first Town of the Genoese of the neerest to Piedmont and the Marquiâ—…ate of Ceva 2000 Piedmontese of the Trained-bands of Mondovi and of the Marquisate of Ceva were entred a little before into the River to defend Oneglia not knowing that it was taken by the Genoese these â—…aving past the Apenine at the place which is called Passo della Nava by which the way lies to Pieve a Pass naturally very difficult and unaccessible and almost abandoned by those of the Commonwealth came not time enough to defend it nor to relieve Oneglia which was already taken by the Genoese but going to Prela it was their good luck to relieve and free it for there being none before it but an unexercised Milâ—…ti without an experienced Commander with little or no Military Discipline they gave over the Siege at the appearing of the Piedmonteses so as returning with the same ease and success into Piedmont by the same Pâ—…ss of Nava and having acquainted the Prince with the weakness of the Guards at those Passes and how easily they had relieved Prela and how they had not met with any opposition in their return thâ—…y incouraged him the more to the enterprise where by the example of his Subjâ—…cts who were returned from those parts he had reason to expect but small resistance he therefore with hopes of good success began it nor failed he in his hopes for finding the Passes as he had been informed but badly guarded he fell down from thence to Pieve a great Town at the foot of the Apenine towards the Sea and the Market being usually there as great and populous used by the Piedmonteses and Genoeses but not weaker to be defended then that of Ottaggio Camp-master Doria was entred thereinto being sent thither from Genoa when the danger of that side was known he had only a thousand paid men given him by the Commonwealth so as though he had refused to go thither with so small a number yet to obey the Senates Orders he went but with protestation that he went to the manifest loss of himself and of his men so gathering together 1500 more of the common people of that Country he came together with them into Pieve and holding it was impossible to take that Town without Artillery which he also thought was impossible to be brought thither he gave all necessary Orders and made all requisite provisions for defence he fortified the Monasteries of St. Austine and the Capuchins which were without the Town and munited them with sufficient Garrisons he did the like at a certain station which was called la Morte all which places he thought untakeable without Artillery so as thinking himself saâ—…e within the Town with those Fortifications he expected the coming of the Enemy Doria was not deceived in his opinion for the Prince appeared without any Artillery and sitting down before St. Austines Monastery he met with great opposition and for some days had little hope to take it but Artillery arriving the fifth day beyond the defendants expectation all impediments
Recruits of men victuals and munition at the same time that they should come to Savona and that landing a great many men they would keep between Savona and Genoa out of a double end The one to keep relief from Genoa the other that they might play upon the City with their great Guns from Sea whilst it should be assaulted by the land Army and so to facilitate the surrender of Savona And to this purpose Prince Victorio had given the Duke of Guise 40000 Ducates when having taken La Riviera he was in Ventimiglia Upon these so sleight and weakly-laid foundations they would once more try their fortune Thus leaving their Quarters they marched through Montferrat towards Acqui whither they came within a few days without any disturbance For the Genoeses being more desirous to preserve Savona then to fall upon them in the Reer sent all their men thither Nor could the Governour of Millain who was come to Alessandria fall upon them as they retreated though he intended so to do For being got on Horseback to that end and being ready in Arms with his forces as he was saluted according to the Military manner by a Dutch Company his Horse rose up on end at the noise of the Musquet shot and threw the Governour who was somewhat corpulent down so as he was forc'd to keep his bed for some days Thus their Retreat proved fortunate though between two enemies Armies yet as the Reer was bringing up some small pieces of Artillery with about 800 Horse they had a bickering with some Troops of Horse which were quartered in Sesse a Town of Alessandria which is upon the way by which the Reer passed The Encounter was gallant and stoutly fought the Spanish Horse were fewer in number but coming to blows had the better of the enemy with little loss unto themselves for the French Horse had only breast-plates on and the Spaniards were armed at all pieces so as they slew and wounded the enemy without being hurt themselves Being at last dis-intangled and got loose they retreated commodiously The Army being come to Acqui and persevering in their intended march to Savona they destin'd Acqui though it were very weakly walled for a Rendezvouz for their Arms and for a safety on their backs wherefore leaving 3000 of their best Souldiers there in Garison with all the Ammunition and provision they could bring from Gavio they march'd on with the rest which were not above 8000 towards Savona When they were come to Spigno a Town which stands in the mid-way they made Prince Victorio and Marshal Crickey advance with part of their men to Cairo which was defended by 250 Neopolitans and playing upon it with some small Pieces of Artillery they after having made two shot took it upon Articles But the Governour having recovered his â—…all and finding that they march'd on still towards Savona held it now no longer time to stand idle nor to suffer that Town to be taken whilst he and his Army looked on which being of such importance to the State of Genoa was also a great concernment to the Crown of Spain Setting therefore all other respects aside he went out of Alessandria with 22000 Foot all very good men and with 5000 able Horse and marched towards Acqui whether being come he forthwith possest himself of all the eminent parts thereabouts and planted his Batteries which caused such terrour in the French who saw how weak their Rampiers were and that the Citizens would not for theâ—…r sakes run the hazard of being sack'd parleyed presently and agreeing to march out the Souldiers only with their Swords and Daggers and the Officers with their Horse and Baggage ' but upon obligation to return into France by the Country of the Vallesani lest they might return to the Army 2300 Foot marched out many who through great weakness were not able to go staying behind They found 17 Banners left there 500 Barrels of powder many Sacks of Victuals many Cannon Bullets Arms and artificial Fire-works and which was more remarkable the Dukes Wardrobe wherein were rich Liveries for Pages and Foot-men Saddles Bridles and other Furniture for Horses all very richly wrought and Moveables to a great value which the Duke had provided thinking assuredly to enter in triumph into Genoa So far had this Prince suffered himself to be transported by his aspiring imagination The Duke and Constable finding by the loss of Acqui which they heard of in Spigno the falshood of the Report that the Spanish Forces would not move for fear of disturbing the union and friendship of the two Crowns they were astonished seeing in what danger they were of being assaulted by two enemies Armies being inclosed between them amidst those Cliffs The Duke hearing the news got immediately on Horse-back and leaving the care of all things wholly to the Constable went with some few Gentlemen towards Piedmont The Constable seeing himself abandoned termed the Dukes departure down right running away and complained of his being left to manage the business himself alone and speedily calling back the Marshal from Cairo with whom came also Prince Victorio they went altogether to Bistagno where there being a Garison they were received without any withstanding But being aware that the Governour did advance with part of his forces to fall upon them in that place and that he had sent another part thereof to hinder their retreat and victuals they resolved to get out of those streights and to get into the open fields of Piedmont The Retreat being thus resolved upon the Constable and the Marshal heading the Van wherein were about 2000 Foot and almost all the Horse they parted early in the morning and marching apace they came without disturbance to Canelli The Prince kept in the Reer wherein were the bâ—…st men and making the Artillery advance he also retreaâ—…ed leaving the place to the enemy who ere he was well got out entred Bâ—…stagnano and pursued him without any intermission so fast as being got near unto him upon the going to of the day in the Valley of Munâ—…stero they faced one another within Musquet shot Some small Skirmishes passed here which the night parted without much loss or advantage to either side The mean time the Prince being careful of the Artillery and other incumbrances which he had much ado to get up the Mountains made great diligence be made in the climbing up and at the same time minced his own defence against the enemy who were at his heels But hearing that at last the Artillery was got to the Mountains top he also retreated thither without any trouble for the enemy having no order to fight nor to advance retreated to Bistagno and suffered them to retreat quietly into Canelli where he was received by his Father and by the Constable with great applause who had been in great anxiety for him The Governour would have made use of the present occasion and would have assaulted the Reer and taken away all the Artillery and
the Arms of France which demand being made when the Army before Casalle was in greater want of men then ever it had been he wish'd they might not be granted him that by that denial he might have a fair pretence to forego friendship with Spain and to abandon the Cause which till then he held in common with that Crown And that when Spinola had punctually satisfied his demand and sent the men contrary to the Dukes expectation he was troubled at their coming which made him not only make them keep upon the Confines but by hard usage endeavoured to make them return back but when he saw his Counsels prevented by the King of France his speed he speedily summoned them in to his defence against the Kings Army which he saw came suddenly upon him and by their help made what defence so short a time and the imminent necessity could permit him to make for though there was no collusion in the conflict at Susa yet the unseasonable demand made by the Spanish Agents the little satisfaction he seemed to receive by their coming the preceding Negotiations and the Conclusion of the subsequent Agreement shew that the Duke was much more inclined to imbrace friendship with France upon new terms then according to the observance of his Ancestors to keep union with the Crown of Spain But it may be said that the then so dangerous condition of Affairs forced the Duke to put on this resolution and it being usual with Princes to make all change lawfull not onely when their State is in danger but where they may better or increase their condition there was not any one that blamed the Dukes Counsels nor his Actions How ever it was the King of France his name was generally exalted to the skies throughout all Italy in several Writings and Composures they said he deservedly merited the title of Just for having assisted an oppress'd Prince the title of powerful for that he had opposed himself in Arms to the oppressors of generous Protector because without any private end or interest nay with such inconveniency to his own affairs with so much trouble and hazard of his own person he could not tolerate the oppression of a Prince who was his friend Some praised the speed of his advancing others the undaunted execution others his miraculous happy success they wonder'd how so many difficulties of the season Alps sterility and opposition yielded to his fortunate Arms and Genius how he had had the courage being tired both himself and Army in hardships undergone before Rochel to pass armed over the Alps in the midst of Winter and to come into Italy to free her from imminent slavery and to assist his Petitioner in his greatest extremity they could not comprehend how at his only presence so many Forces such preparations of Arms and so many Plots against a Client of his Crown should vanish just like a shadow before the Sun some called him the Protector of the oppressed others the avenger of the liberty of Italy and expecting greater proceedings from such a beginning they promised unto themselves great alterations almost all the Princes of Italy sent Embassadours to him partly to congratulate his so happy success and to thank him for having freed them from the imminent slavery they apprehended if Casalle should be taken partly to purchase his favour in case as it was much feared he had any further intentions then the freeing of Cassalle and that he might not prejudice their Dominions some and particularly the Venetians to incite him as it was said to advance further with his Arms offering to joyn their Forces and Intelligence with him against the Spaniards with whom they were very ill satisfied in what concerned the Valtoline and this new commotion against Montferrat but the King did soon free all men from such suspitions and by his sudden and unexpected resolution broke off the thred of his so prosperous Fortune for on the last of April he return'd into France leaving the Cardinal and chief Officers of the Court in Susa not tarrying till the business of Montferrat should be ratified from Spain but leaving the things unconcluded and unperfect for which he had with so great fervour and preparation entred Italy The Cardinal and the rest soon followed after the King leaving Marshal Cricky in Susa supream Governour of the affairs of Italy with 6000 Foot and 500 Horse The occasion of this so sudden and so unexpected departure was variously interpreted some allotting it to the Kings vivacity of spirit some to his moderation as if content with having freed his Friend with having secured peace to Italy and to so many Princes who apprehended the contrary he had with a Prince-like magnanimity let the world see not only how just his thoughts were but how moderate and content upon such an occasion and so great an opportunity of affairs and how far he was from dreaming of novelties or of disturbing the publick peace but these specious pretences not being able to prevail with those who could have desired more constancy and resolution in the King and much less with those who desirous of novelty had conceived great hopes by the Kings coming the French gave out that the Duke of Roan head of the Hugonots in France seeing his party ruined by the loss of Rochel and that he could not get ready help to sustain himself from Spain whither he had dispatch'd Messengers of purpose by reason of the great scarcity of moneys began to cry Peccavi and would render obedience to the King which because it was likely to put a final end to the troubles of France was of so great moment to the Kings affairs as that all other enterprises set aside it forced him to return to secure them which though by the soon ensuing accidents appeared might be true yet not being then believed it was not sufficient to maintain the reputation of the French Forces which being but a little before formidable to Italy by reason of so prosperous success began after the Kings departure to decline and the rather for that it was soon known that it was a new tumult of the Hugonots who had fortified themselves in the Mountains of Auvergnia and not Roans surrender which had forced the King to return thither to suppress them This the Kings so sudden departure afforded also occasion of belief and this was afterwards judged to be the truest cause that the King was come into Italy with far smaller Forces then fame gave out which not being fit for new enterprises he had done more wisely to content himself with the glory which he had won then to hazard the loss thereof by falling upon new enterprises But be it what it would that occasioned the Kings departure it sufficiently lessened the reputation of the Kings Forces and on the contrary the Spaniards who seemed to be totally quel'd began out of these respects and other favourable accidents to hold up their heads The Duke of Savoy though he appeared
though he was inferiour to them in Horse those which were sent to Bricherasco not being yet returned Momorancy was desirous to give battle which if it had been done would have been upon much disadvantage to the Duke but La Force would not give way thereunto Wherefore they retreated to their quarters about Pinarollo and the Plague increasing very much in both Armies they kept in their quarters for many dayes in the face of one another as if they had been in tacite League not doing any thing of moment The King of France proceeded more hotly beyond the Mountains who entring into Savoy with 8000 Foot and 2000 Horse had reduced all Savoy into his power unlesse it were Mommiliano for Prince Thomaso made no opposition he resolved to begirt Mommiliano on all sides and to besiege it a distance for it was a strong and almost invincible place For being inclosed on all sides by his Forces and impossible to be relieved it must of necessity fall into his hands for want of victuals So as needing not many men for that enterprize he sent part of his Forces to recruit his Army in Italy which had need enough of help And Prince Thomaso being sent for back by his Father carried his men with him from Savoy to defend Piedmont Thus both Armies bâ—…ing reinforced they prepared for greater enterprizes the French to relieve Casalle the Duke to withstand them This recruit was sent under Momorancy who was returned from Piedmont into France after the businesse of Cercenaseo it consisted of 10000 Foot and 1000 Horse and â—…ell down by the valley of Susa Momorancy intending to joyn with the Forces that were in Pinarollo and crossing Piedmont to draw neer Casalle towards which Marshal De La Force leaving a sufficient Garrison in Pinarollo and in the other places went by the way of the Mountaines to Giavenna neer Susa waiting there for Momorancy who did not much value Avigliana there being almost no Garrison there for the Duke had sent for the greatest part thereof to Pancaler Wherefore he easily took it he likewise believed he should easily passe through the Canevese to Casalle Spinola and the Duke were much troubled at the coming of this recruit but much more with the news of the Kings coming with a greater force who having possest himself as you have heard of Savoy was come neer the Alpes and was at the same time seen upon the Mountain St Barnado So as the Duke perceiving that the King was offended with him knew not how to fence himself against this third coming of the French and Spinola who was ingaged before Casalle but with a few men fearing lest little to his honour he might be forced as his Predecssor had been to abandon that enterprize which contrary to the opinion of all he had of himself undertaken knew not what to do Yet bâ—…ing much prest by the Duke he sent 6000 Dutch to the Mountain who were brought at the King of Spain's charge but very then from Germany and six Troops under Pagan Doria Duke of Avigliana in the Kingdom of Naples and Brother to Prince Doria a young man and who the year before had entred into the Militia under Don Gonsallo and was in the first businesse of Casalle and Spinola to the end that if the King should come he might not be inforc'd to raise the siege or fight took the Souldiers from working in the approaches and imploy'd them in making a crooked and high trench wherewith he invironed the whole Camp And seeing that by this new work and by the men which he had sent the Duke the siege would be slackned and having in vain desired a thousand of his Dutch from Collalto he sent to the Common-wealth of Genoa for a thousand men which he would take into his pay But neither was this granted him for hearing of preparations of Armes in the Provence the Common-wealth would not disfurnish her self and this the rather for that having formerly sent men to before Casalle she could not receive them back when she needed them without manifest danger of infecting the State the Plague being very hot in the Camp before Casalle So Spinola was forced to make use of those men to defend his own Camp which he had begun to oppose others with and the Duke of Savoy fearing Avigliana sent Count Verrâ—…a from Pancaleri with 3000 Foot and Gambacorti with 400 Hose to possesse themselves of the abandoned Trenches and Fortifications that shut up the valley which leads from Susa to Avigliana As they went thither they found the Enemy very neer but having possest themselves of the Trenches first the Prince came in with a great body of men who reinforcing those stations with 2000 Foot incamp'd himself with the rest at Riano within two miles of Avigliana both parties kept within their quarters facing one another two dayes some sleight skirmishes passing between them the third day the French finding it impossible to advance and storm those quarters resolved to give over their going that way to Casalle and endeavoured to retreat joyntly by the Mountain to Pinarollo and passing over the Mountain Giavenna to joyn with La Force who was yet there with his men the way by the Mountain Giavenna was very narrow and hard to passe so as two Brigadoes being already past over the rest remained yet in the plain in danger of being routed if they should be assaulted for that they could not well be succour'd by those that were already past The Prince thought it not fit to let slip this occasion but without tarrying for more of his men who were not above a mile off would fall upon them with those that he had ready hoping that they would suffice to get the victory He had with him about 5000 Dutch two of the Princes Troops of Horse and Doria's six Companies which were new men unexperienced and were not above 300 Horse The French reere which remained in the plain was 3000 Foot and about 400 Horse the choicest of all the Army and Momorancy and Marshal Diâ—…iate with some others of the most experienced Commanders remained in the reere for the greater security thereof Theâ—…e was a great Meere or standing water between them which men past over by two banks the one whereof was on the back the other on the flank of the French Shamburg and Sults advanc'd by the latter with half the Dutch in a close Baâ—…aglione and with the Prince his Troops of Horse by the other the Prince himself in person with the rest of the Dutch commanded by Gallasso and with Doria's Horse The skirmish being begun Momorancy divided his Horse into two squadrons and took a little compasse upon the left hand towards a neighbouring Town called St Ambrosio which led to the way of the Hill The Prince conceiving that the French fled and would climbe the Mountain by that way and get into a place of safety or recover Susa ordered Doria to fall upon them with his Horse and
Spanish Agents thinking that he sowed discord between the Empire and Crown of Spain to the end that he might weaken them both and so destroy them and the Jesuites thinking that he was resolved to subvert the Catholick Religion which though in appearance he professed to worship yet many of his actions having another aspect he was no less suspected to be an enemy to Religion then to the Empire and it was thought that he profess'd the Catholick Religion only outwardly and to keep in credit with the Emperour who was a pious Prince but that for the rest that he intended to take away all the supports from the Catholick Religion and from the Spanish Authority that he might the more easily effect his designs against them All of them therefore used their power with the Emperour to contaminate these his endeavours amongst the Spaniards there was the Count d'Ognate Embassadour in ordinary with the Emperour and the Marquess of Castegnada also Embassadour in extraordinary with the King of Hungary both of them indued with excellent Counsel and Judgement who were very careful of the main Affairs Fritland had made both these his enemies no less then he had done the Duke of Bavaria but he had incens'd him now more then ever for that after the loss of Ratisbone he would not give the least assistance to his State which was then more in danger then ever wherefore the Duke exclaimed against him in Cesars Court his keeping still in Bohemia added to his being hated and suspected as also the probable doubt that he had still some design to make himself King thereof and that he tarried therefore there in these perturbations of Affairs to execute this his design now when in likelihood he might easily effect it not so much in respect of the Authority he had over the Souldiers who called him their Father and were ready at his least beck as that all the Princes and Hans Towns of Germany being much inclined to abate the Austrian name and authority would not only be well pleased therewith but would favour it and assist him therein but the more necessary provision appeared to be had against the accumulation of so many mischiefs the harder was it to finde them out Cesars Decrees were of small validity against him who had the supream and absolute arbitrement over all Cesars Forces so as the remedy appeared more dangerous then the disease and the Emperour still persevering in his resolution of not condemning one of disloyalty of whose fidelity he was so well satisfied he seemed not capable of putting on so stout a resolution but being at last overcome by so many exclamations and reiterated protestations or were it that the prejudice he received by the quartering of his men upon his Territories grieved him when he saw the very City of Vienna environed with his quarters and himself and his Court in a manner besieged before he would come to more sharp and severe courses he made his desires known to him by Father Chiroga a Spaniard a religious Capuchin and Confessor to the Queen of Hungary that in consideration of his being so grievously troubled with the Gout which was a hindrance to him in his Military actions he would be content to give over his Command of being General and retire himself as he had done formerly to a private life but were it either that he thought this desire was made at the instant pressures of his enemies or that he still persevered in his machinations he would not be perswaded thereunto but answered that he had no desire to serve the Emperour against the Emperours will that he was therefore ready to obey his commands but that it was also true that as well he himself as his Commanders under him had upon his Paroll been at great expence in raising men for the recruiting of the Army and that he was to see them paid for the expences they had been at as the Emperour was to see him satisfied that therefore he thought it reasonable that in the first place his Majesty should finde means to pay what he ought him and to his Captains and that convenient satisfaction being given in this point he would give over his charge and withdraw himself to a private life but the Emperour not being in a condition of disbursing so great a sum of money and the jealousies and frequent protestations multiplying he betook himself to somewhat a more severe way he sent the Baron of Questemberg who was his chiefest Officer to him and his chiefest Court-confident and through whose hands the Affairs of greatest consequence passed willing him to complain in his name against his pass'd actions and particularly for his quartering his Army in his the Emperours Patrimonial Dominions and chiefly in the parts about Vienna and he gave him also a very resentive instruction whereby the Emperour complaining very much of the loss of Ratisbone and of Wallesteins not recovering it he added that those quarters did so much trouble his Imperial Majesty as he would rather lose a Field Battle then indure them any longer when Questemberg came before Fritland were it either that he had always shew'd himself much devoted to his greatness or were it that he feared to exasperate him too much if he should deliver him his message by word of mouth judged it better to give him his instructions to read at the reading whereof Fritland being mightily incensed said that he would renounce his charge of being General for he clearly saw all his enemies used their uttermost power to make him do so whereupon he published this his resolution in writing and which made much for irritating the Souldiery he caused several Copies of this instruction to be dispers'd amongst them he also gave Order to his Cousen the Count of Tersica and General of the Horse and to Count Chiuschy his great Favorite both of them Bohemians who possess'd great Lordships in that Kingdom and to the Marquess Illo a Burgondian and one who was also much his favorite to negotiate with the Captains and Souldiers of his Army and make them not consent to his laying down his charge these obey'd the Generals commands and began seditiously to publish throughout the Quarters and Precincts of the Army the wrongs and injuries which were done to their General by his enemies the which not being any longer able to resist he was forced to renounce his charge and once more to give way to the apparent hatred of the Court Saying that he who was a Captain loaded with Victories and Triumph and who now was arrived at that height of greatness whereunto any humane thought could aspire was not troubled to return to a private life that once more after having undergone so many labours he might injoy the quiet due thereunto wherefore he was not troubled to disrobe himself once more of that command which against his will and inforc'd he had revested himself with that he was only troubled even to the soul to think that he must
out of the French which they had conceived of him by reason of what had hapned before Valenza by giving them this place in lieu thereof which was of greater consequence and a more convenient seat And therefore he did not onely assist the already begun Fabrick by his care and diligence but stuck not sometimes to work thereupon with his own hands as a private Souldier The work was begun about the end of November in a time when the Lomellina having already been the seat of the War before Valenza was wholly destitute of victuals forrage and of all things else necessary for the maintenance of an Army in a time when the earth being cover'd over with Ice and Snow and the ways deep it was impossible they could be disturbed in their work an advantage which was well repaid by the prejudice that the same difficulties occasioned to the labourers and to the whole French Army for the Souldiers not being able to resist the bitterness of the season and the scarcity of victuals so many of them died as in a short time and before the Fort was finished they were reduced to a very small number yet the work was finished and abundantly provided of all warlike necessaries but not being able to tarry in so desolate a Country for the scarcity of victuals a sufficient Garrison being left there all the rest of the Souldiery went out and ran plundering up and down some in the lower Montferrat some in the parts about Alessandria where taking Towns they with much rigour used towards the Inhabitants got together as much victuals as they could and brought it all speedily into the new Fort. The Duke of Parma was not present at this building being gone to Paris to negotiate his own interests with the King hoping not only to be rewarded and honour'd but to be by him assisted in the maintaining of his Dominions which in his absence were exposed to the assaults of the enemy in defence whereof the Duke of Savoy were it either to regain the Kings favour and to cancel all shadows of suspition or to ease Piedmont from quartering he sent the Marquess Villa with 1800 Horse and 4000 Foot to boot with the remainder of the Parma Forces to go joyntly to the defence of those Staâ—…es The Marquess marching out of Cassalle and having without any opposition cross'd through the Country of Alessandria came to Scrivia a River which runs neer Tortona but the new Governour who hearing of this marching was before hand got into that City hoping assuredly to hinder the enemies passage over that River to which purpose he placed two pieces of Cannon and some Sacres upon a certain rise on the inward bank on the opposite side whereof the enemy marched already and he also placed all his Musketeers there he also sent a Troop of Dragoons beyond the River to discover the enemy which were driven back over the River by the Marquess his Guard and forced with much loss to get within shelter of the Artillery on the other side The Marquess drew out his men in battle array to venture foording his men over and after having skirmished a while finding himself inferiour to the enemy both in Forces and situation desisted from passing over there and tried whether he might not overcome the enemy by Military industry this River is foordable only in three places the first in this place which was well guarded by Tortona another five miles lower at Castel nuovo the third between these two which is called passo della Lupa The Marquess would not venture over here it being so neer the other place and from him the Prince being come to Traghetino within three miles of Castel nuovo found that Villa stood expecting him in the field with his men in order and not thinking it fit to face a Captain and old Souldiers proud of their late got Victory with fresh and unexperienced men staid expecting new recruits from the State of Millain where by order from the Governour some 3000 Foot were in readiness to assist the assaulted State under Don Iovan Vasques Cornado Governour of Cremona and 800 Horse under Don Vincenzo Gonsaga Lieutenant General of the Horse of the State of Millain who being come from the greater Cassalle in Barques along the Poe to Boreto a Town of Modena landed there and joyn'd with Prince Lewis intending to fall joyntly upon the State of Parma Marquess Villa at the news of the coming of this recruit was gone from Castel nuovo to the banks of Poe between Barcello and Colorno thinking that this succour would land there that so he might keep them from landing but seeing them fall lower and fearing what did indeed happen that when they should be landed they would march into the Country of Parma he thought to oppose them at the pass of Lenza a little River which divides the States of Modena and Parma upon which there were two Bridges upon one of the which called Ponte della Sorbolla he himself stood with his men and sent 500 men of Parma to defend the other thinking that the enemy would fall on by that of Sorbolla but seeing that they went to assault the other and that having driven away those of Parma not without some loss they were pass'd to this side the River he feared that they would overrun the Country even to the Walls of Parma as they might well do wherefore leaving the Parma Militia to guard the Bridge of Sorbolla he went himself with his men to the Hospital St. Lazzero to keep them from advancing neerer the City between the River Lenza and the City of Parma there goes a large way with a great Ditch on either side the Prince and the Spanish Commanders thinking to charge through to the City by that great way they put their men in order and so did Villa his a Van of 500 Musketeers march'd before the Prince his men half on the one side half on the other side of the way betwixt whom the Horse marched and behind them the rest of the Spanish Foot and in the Reeâ—… came those of Modena 5000 Foot and 1000 Horse in number The Marquess disposed of his men en Croupe and were it either that the Spanish Horse which advanc'd wanted Musketiers or that the way through which they came galloping was so narrow as no more then five Horse could come on front it was easie for the Marquess who already was pass'd over with the Piedmont Horse to make head against them and to keep back and repulse the enemies Horse by his Musket-shot who being dispers'd fled some to Castel nuovo some to Ponte Curone some being loâ—…e wounded some slain Don Martine d'Aragona received a sore wound himself and the Governour not appearing with any succour the foord was forsaken so as not only those who were already pass'd but those that tarried behind pass'd over together with the Foot without any gainsaying Villa being doubly glorious first for having deluded the enemies advantages by his
condition Cuneo was they resolved to go thither they had great hopes of taking it for the Prince Cardinal would either go out of Cuneo or he would not if he did Corvo who was Serjeant Major there offer'd to yield the Town to them and if not they were sure to take it by reason of the small provisions that were there and if they should take it it would put an end to the Civil War since the Prince Cardinal who was the Head of the controverted Guardianship would be therein taken Prisoner whereof Duke Longueville made himself so sure as he writ thereof to the King as of a thing done but they were much deceived for Cuneo was not taken and Turin was lost which the Prince Cardinal did cunningly foresee for Prince Thomaso whilst he was in Mandovi going to see him at Cuneo and having earnestly desired him not to suffer himself to be enclosed in that unprovided place which was not such as he ought to adventure his person therein and therewith the whole affair he absolutely refused his advice for he held undoubtedly that if he should go out the Town would be lost and on the contrary that the Governour of Millain would either come with all his Forces to relieve him or that else he would go to Turin which he might easily take all the Dowagers and French Forces being now in these parts and the Siege of Cuneo being to be abandoned for the necessary defence of Turin the freedom of his person and the like of the Town would ensue but these very thoughts falling into the minds of those who fought on the Dowagers behalf they likewise knew what dangers Turin and the Citadel and the Dowager that was therein would be subject to if when they should go with almost all the Forces of Piedmont to an enterprise so far off the enemy making use of the occasion should come strongly against Turin whilst it was unprovided of defence it was therefore thought necessary that the Cardinal of Valletta should go with all his men to defend the parts thereabouts which resolution was approved of and pursued by the Cardinal and was as good as necessary and if it had been as well perform'd as it was plotted it had quite oveâ—…throvvn all the Prince Cardinals Counsels foâ—… both Turin and the Dovvager would have been preserved from danger and Cuneo would have been taken with evident hazard of the Prince Cardinals person but the misfortune in performance marred the design and made good the Prince Cardinals opinion when the Cardinal Valletta was gone Duke Longueville went to Cuneo and on the sudden in the night season assaulted the out Works and forc'd the defendants with much loss to them to forsake the Works and betake themselves to defend the Walls and the Gates which the assailants had well nigh taken as they pursued them he therefore had happily begun his business and had fair hopes of ending it successfully but before the Trenches were begun to be made the whole thred of the business was cut off by a Letter of the Cardinal of Valletta's wherein he signified to Longueville that the Enemy came very strong against him and that he could not possibly withstand them unlesse he were recruited with eight hundred more Horse though the Duke was somewhat amazed at this demand yet he readily sent the desired Horse that the Cardinal might have no occasion to fail in what was by common consent agreed upon but the want of these Horse forc'd the Duke to abandon Cuneo and to retreat to a Town neer to Fossano called St. Albano whereby one part of the Prince Cardinals judgement was verified that Cuneo would be abandoned to relieve Turin and the other part proved as true not long after for Prince Thomaso having had speech with the Governour of Millain in Aâ—…sti and having perswaded him to relieve Cuneo and his Brother at least by diversion got of him 600 Spanish Foot under Marquess Caracena and 2500 Horse under Carlo della Gatta with express promise that all the rest of the Forces should immediately follow him so he went forthwith from thence and came speedily to Villa nuova where getting 500 other Foot under Camp-master Tuttavilla he past over the Poe about the evening and came by night to Vallentino Villa nuâ—…va Carmagnuola and Turin make a just triangle wherefore when news came to the other two Cities that the Prince was come with a great body of men to Villa nuova they were both much terrified and began to cry out for help The Dowager sent Count Piveasâ—… forthwith to the Cardinal of Valletta desiring that he would hasten to defend her and the City of Turin and the Cardinal fearing no less then she to be assaulted in Carmagnuola not knowing what to do did not stir The Prince kept in Vallentino till midnight giving out fitting Orders for the surprizal of Turin and in maturing intelligence with those that guarded it and having ordered all things well resolved to assault the Town on four sides The Marquess of Caracena was appointed to assault the Castle Gate with the 600 Spanish Foot which were the very best of that Nation that beating it down with a Petard he might make himself master of it Tuttavilla was sent to scale the Wall between the Bastion of S ta Maria and that of Citta nuova Colonel Alardo was ordered to fall upon the Posto di nostra Signora towards the Citadel and Count di Vich was sent to fasten a Petard to Porta nuova and each of them had sufficient Orders Instruments and Men given them for what they had to do each of them did punctually perform what they were appointed at one and the same time which was at fiâ—… a clock at night and the darkness of the season was a great furtherance to the enterprise and yet Caracena could not fasten his Petard for he found the Bridge drawn up and the Ladders wherewith he was to scale the Walls were too short he notwithstanding fell to break the Steccadoes which lay along the Courtain toward the Bastion Verde and entred thereby into the Garden of the Pallazzo Ducale Tuttavilla who was abandoned by his guide who could not endure the noise of a Musket marching alone with his Squadron and groaping in the dark light upon a Half-moon which was defended by 500 Souldiers and after having skirmished a while with them he at last made himself master thereof then entring the ditch to fall to the Scalado he also found his Ladders too short wherefore being called upon by Caracena he resolved to go to him and being joyned they entred the City by the Garden and formed two Squadrons upon Piazza San ' Iovanni The Dowager hearing that the enemy was entred the Town withdrew with her Guard into the Citadel being waited upon by the Lord Chancellor some of the chief Magistrates of Turin and by a great many Ladies and Gentlemen Caracena and Tuttavilla went to the Castle Gate they broke the Portculles and
Prince encourageing him to persevere in defending the Town and promising him that to boot with these succors he would come thither himself shortly with a powerful Army to relieve him and set him at liberty and telling him that what had hapned at Cassalle was but a trick of Fortune and had rather dispers'd then discomfited his men that he stay'd now to rally them under his Colours to the end that with them and with others which he expected very shortly from other parts he might come and relieve him and the City All those that were sent by the Governour got luckily into Turin and Don Mauritio got thither also who was returned with the Prince his Horse from Cassalle though somewhat lessened by Harcourts Cannon which thundered from the hills but little powder could be brought in for want of Waggon horses and the ways being afterwards block'd up and possessed by the En my the rest could not enter without much prejudice to the Enterprise especially for that Prince Thomaso had sent 400 Horse before the ways were block'd up to be a conduct to that Munition which Horse was not suffered to return for the aforesaid blocking up of the ways so the Prince was not only deprived of that provision but also of those Horse which had he had them he would doubtlesly have made greater impressions upon the Enemy by sallies then he did but now he was forced to be more circumspect in his night Assaults 3000 Citizens able to bear Arms were added to the Kings men who were employed in desending the City and also many Country people who were come thither for refuge who were a great help in their handy-works so as the Prince though he wanted fighting men and war-like amunition yet finding that the Governour was mindful of him and of preserving the City and taking that assistance which he had already sent as a Token of what he would do in the future he was not wanting to himself in doing what he could in so short a time to defend the City Turin stands in a large and pleasant Plain twelve miles Eastwards from the Alpes the Poe runs almost within a Bow-shot of it on the East side and on the North the Dora comes almost to one Angle of the City and a little beyond la Dora runs la Stura both which Rivers fall into the neighbouring Poe on the South side runs the Sagone rather a Torrent then a River which falls also into the Poe over against Cavâ—…reto The City thus scituated is divided into three parts the new City the old City and the Citadel The new City joyns to the old on the South they are only divided by a Wall but are both enclosed within a Wall and as the new Town advanced a little further then the old towards the Poe so not thrusting out so far towards the Alps it leaves a spacious Plain whereon the Citadel stands which being further from the Poe then the City wants not only the convenâ—…nces which she might receive by the neighbourhood thereof but not being able to command the River cannot debar it from Navigation The Citadel is a Pentagon The circuit of both the old and new City is flank'd round about with Bulwarks and with Ditches The Prince when he was master of it did not believe he should be forc'd to defend it from without but imploy'd himseâ—…f totally against the Citadel and neglected securing the City on the out side but learning by what had hapned at Cassalle that instead of minding the taking of the Citadel it behoved him to take care of descending the City he fell with all speed and diligence to fortifie it from any assault that might be made from without and leaving smaller matters his chiefest care was to defend the Bridge over the Poe which as whilst it was in his hands it kept the way open for the bringing of succour which he expected would be brought from the Governour so when it should be taken by the enemy it kept out any succour that might be brought by that way for then the reliever must find some other way to pass his Army over the River which was almost impossible to do in the face of a powerful enemy This Bridge is made of Stone and is the best that crosses the Poe at the left side of the foot thereof towards Turin stands a little Burrough the other which stands on the right side lies under a little hill upon which there is a Church and a Covent of Capuchins and this side being all hilly other higher hills stand above that of the Capuchins one above another The Prince munited this Bridge at both ends with Trenches nor herewithall contented he munited very well the aforesaid Church and Covent and Moreover built a little Fort upon another higher hill which overlooked the Monastery he put 300 Foot into these Fortifications and Victuals and Ammunition sufficient for fifteen days within which time he hoped the Governour would appear with his Army These Works were not fully finished when the French Army appeared on three sides the first that appeared having block'd up the Passes of Susa Lanza and the Canevese advanced to the City towards the Dora and the new Park which answers upon that Angle of the City which is called the green Bulwark and which includes the Dukes Palace and Gardens in defence whereof the Prince had made a sudden Trench formed like a pair of Shears the other quartered on the upper hill above the Church and Covent of the Capuchins and the third passing the Poe at Montcalleri by a wooden Bridge that is there advanced to the Palace Valentino whereof after a small Skirmish making themselves masters they the next night took the Burrough which as we said stands between the City and the Bridge and not meeting with any resistance there they assaulted the Bridge where they found some resistance but having mortally wounded the Captain who did defend it they made themselves also masters thereof the Garrison retiring towards the Monastery as to an advantagious place which was not able neither to keep there long for the little Fort which as hath been said was built and fortified by the Prince above the Monastery was at the same time assaulted and taken by those who had taken up their quarters upon the hill which was above that Fort whence playing upon the Covent which was beneath they easily took it though they were manfully fought with for at a third assault the assailants entred the place and from thence went to the Church whither the defendants had retreated where without any respect to the holiness of the place they put all to the sword that were there except the Officers and sacking moreover not only such secular things as were brought thither as into a place of safety but without any distinction laid hands upon such as were sacred and dedicated to divine worship by which good success waxing more bold and meeting with no opposition for the Prince being desirous
accomplishment of the enterprise if it had been entirely executed as the Prince advised He sent Don Carlo della Gatta with a good number of Horse and with about 4000 Foot to Collegno to the end that quartering and fortifying himself there he should do what the whole Camp was to have done if it had gone thither which was to block up all the avenues from succour and victuals Gatta past succesfully on with his men to the place appointed by the way of Mille Fiori though a thousand Horse went coasting along by him which came out of the line of Circumvolution For the Prince sallying at the same time out of the City had faln upon the Enemies quarters toward the Dora and the Governour was gone to give a feigned Allarme to Vallentino and the Garrison of Cheri being recruited by the Trades-men had at the same time assaulted the fortifications which were above the Capuchins So as the French being diverted into many parts could not much impede Gatta in his passage who coming to Collegno drove out the French Garrisen and being master thereof began immediately to fortifie it better The Governour also instead of taking Grugliaseo look Bianesco which stands upon another way which leads from Pinarvolo but a little lower then Graliasco and consequently neerer the quarters of Montcalleri by which the besieging Camp was somewhat more streightned and almost as much besieged as the City The taking of Collegno caused much jealousie in Harcourt who apprehended that his Trenches might rather be assaulted on that side then elsewhere and they being weaker then the rest he put stronger Garrisons into them and fortified them better towards Collegno the same day that Gâ—…ta came to Collegno he met with a fair occasion of intercepting a great conduct of Victuals as he did and of routing a Regiment of the Dowagers which served for a Convoy thereunto he also defeated 500 Horse and 500 Foot of Count Verrua's which were coming from Susa to the Camp and either slew almost all of them or took them Prisoners except the Count who got safe with some Horse to the Camp Vincenzo della Marra a Neopolitan Gentleman took also 60 load of Corn and utterly defeated the Convoy and the Governour having sent the Horse of his quarters towards Millefiori had a gallant Skirmish with the Enemy where the Corps de guard which were therein was totally put to the sword at the same time or a little before the French having thrown a Bridge over the Dora between the Meadows called Vanchiglia and the New-Park which made very much for Communication between the quarters of the Burgo and of the Capuchins with those beyond the Dora the Prince took a fancy to try whether he could deprive the enemy or no of that conveniency and free the City of the inconvenience which might result by the communication of those quarters by means of that Bridge he to this purpose Sallied out by night very strong both in Horse and Foot and though he cut the Ropes in sunder which fastned the bridge on this side yet the enemy easily mended it and put it into it's former condition and made some fortifications for the safety thereof the Prince being desirous to attempt the same again he sent Don Mauritio with 300 Horse thither and Marquess Serra with two squadrons of Foot one Spanish one Italians these sent Fra. Iovan Pallavicino with some Foot to discover the Bridge who finding it newly fortified whilest some sleight Skirmishes past between him and the Enemy they might see five companies of Horse come from the Borgo and advance towards them to cut them off from joyning with their companions against which Don Mauritio's Cavalry advancing Fra. Iovanni had conveniency to withdraw to a place of Safety and incorporated himself with Serra who went not onely to shelter Don Mauritio's Cavalry with his squadrons of Musketiers but to fall upon the enemies Horse which were forced with much loss to face about and get into a place of safety and though some other squadrons of Horse came from Vallentino to relieve him yet they came not time enough for they were de ained by the Cannon which played from the works of the City and by musket-shot which poured down from the Walls but the Bridge not being ruined neither by this second attempt the Prince threw another Bridge over the same River that he might pass over to the other shore when he pleased and receive any succour that might come by that way a difficult business for all the Bank beyond the River was defended by a Battery levell'd against the Mills but the knowledge that Marquess Villa who together with Pianezza was quartered there was gone with most part of the Piedmontese Horse elsewhere and the Enterprise being intended at the third hour of the Sun when the night Guards being relieved grow remiss encouraged them to the Enterprise which was wholly given to Bâ—…lognino who going forth with Horse and Foot threw over the Bridge with little loss over which the Foot pass'd the next day part of them were sent towards the Park against some Foot which guarded a Redout which was over the against the old broken bridge of the Park which Redout being assaulted and the Defendants cut in peices was taken the other part went to assault a body of men who guarded a half Cannon placed over against the new bridge who being routed the half Cannon fell into the assailants hands which they began to draw towards the Dora but Pianezza hearing thereof strove to repair the loss He therefore headed two squadrons of French Horse which were in that place and the ordinary Troop and spur'd on a pace to assault the Enemies Horse and skirmishing fiercely with them the half Cannon and those that carried it away put to flight the Foot with some of the Horse past back over the Dora the rest were chased by Pianezza towards the Park yet were the takers but little prejudiced for the Enemy having in the heat of the pursuit left the half Cannon behind them they immediately took it again and brought it to the banks of the Dora where it was under good shelter and being impossible to be recovered it was carried in triumph into the City But the French were as well damnified by the Garrison within the City as by the Army without for together with the continual pressure of victuals the Garrison of Collegno having ransack'd the Country as far as Pinarvolo had spoiled the mils which were not far from that Town and put the Town in such a terrour as it kept the Gates shut for many dayes And Gatta going with 1000 Horse afterwards into those parts fell upon St. Secondo a Town neer Pinarvolo where he kill'd 200 Dragoons and took their Captain Prisoner The Prince Cardinals Horse likewise which were sent as hath been said to the Spanish Camp being come from Beinesco under Count Broglio fell upon Rivalta cut the Garrison in pieces and made themselves Masters of
joyn with him in excluding the Spaniards and he was almost certain that the Governour to shun greater inconveniencies would give way that the Citadel should rather remain in his hands then in those of the French The Commendator Pasâ—…ro one of much experience and in great authority with the Prince was cry'd up for the Author of these counsels which being divulged about the Court were approved of by the Piedmontese nobles as those who being naturally more inclined to the French then to the Spaniards apprehended that to fall under the Spanish Empire was the worst of evils that could befall them They therefore thought that to keep from that misfortune they had best embrace any thing how slender so ever and expect better fortune The Prince being oppress'd by the nearness and by the greatness of the danger which though it was foreseen when a far off yet was it never so inevitable nor formidable as now Being therefore resolved to do all that was possible he sent a Letter to the Governour on the seventh of Iuly wherein he signified unto him that he could hold out no longer and that if he were not relieved within four dayes at the furthest he would without more a doe accept of the French offers and would surrender the City Which Letter was very unfortunate for the Prince and for the business in order to the relief and to the raising of the siege was the ruine of the common affairs did overthrow the Princes cause and on the contrary raised the French Army out of the extream precipice and danger whereinto it was more then manifestly brought The City was not effectually in so great streights as the Prince would fain have made it been believed to be for it had great store of Corn nor did it want grist as before that default being much supply'd by hand-mills which were daily made And though in conforminy to what the Prince had writ the Governour was also informed by Don Antonio Sotelo of the aforesaid wants who though he was chief of the Kings men and affairs that were handled in the City had upon many occasions appeared apâ—…e to please the Prince then careful of the Kings concernment yet the Governour had received contrary intelligence from other Captains and in particular from Marquess Serra who looking more narrowly into affairs knew that the City might hold out longer and woe his mind freely to the Governour and did assure him that there were those who had offer'd to maintain the City with bread for two moneths at no exorbitant rates Which offers the Prince refused as thinking them impossible to be performed and though there was more want of powder then of bread yet it was found that the City held out and made stout sallies upon the Enemies quarters twenty days after the eleventh of Iuly and yet had received no recruit in powder and the danger of the French succour which was said to be very neer proved vain for La Gatta being stronger in Collegno then the relievers who were not above 4000 Foot and some Horse it was impossible for to pass that way or to force the Garrison The Governour seeing himself taken off from continuing his designes and bereft of the victory which he so longed after and was neer getting by the Princes so precise pressures and resolute proâ—…estations he was much astonished and was the more confused for that by letters which he received at the same time he was informed as hath been said that the City was in a far different condition from what it was represented to be in by the Prince so as suspecting the Princes pressures must needs ayme at some hidden end amongst many things which he thought upon at last he light upon one or two either that the Prince had closed with the French or was upon agreeing with them And that therefore that he might the better honest his surrounding of the Town he put him upon the poynt of speedy relief that so he might provide for himself abandon the King of Spain and bâ—…ake himself to the King of France or else that he would revive his claim to putting of a Garrison into the Citadel The Governour had alwayes proceeded so reservedly with the Princes as without either assuring them of his intent or making them despair he had still held them in expectation that they should be pleased and they were always confident to have what they pretended unto either with his will or against it wherefore he was forc'd to vary his determination in the Enterprise though it proceeded on very successfully and to put the certainty of Victory upon the uncertain chance of a Dye He therefore began greatly to doubt what peradventure was true he knew no better way how to avoid this exigency then by feeling Paseroe's Pulse with offering him six thousand Pistols to procure the Prince to delay his expectation of succour for fifteen days to the end that he might the better attend the keeping out of that relief which was expected by the enemy from France hoping nay firmly believing that if that succour could be kept out the Siege would be raised before the desired time of delay should be expired and that by this means he should not need adventure his Forces in relieving the City The care of this was committed to Marquess Serra who was chiefly trusted by the Governour in carrying on this Siege but this Negotiation not being to be ended so soon by reason of the difficulty of giving and of receiving advertisement and for that it becomes those that negotiate in such affairs to wait the conjuncture of times the eleventh day being come before the Negotiation was ended the Governour who had precise Orders from the King not to give the Prince any occasion of foregoing his party he suffer'd himself to be pul'd on by necessity and by the Prince his inclinations as one doth sometimes who rides an unruly horse and resolved to please him he therefore agreed upon the doing of it in this manner The Governour was to go from his quarters of Montcalleri and Gatta from his of Collegno upon the break of day on the eleventh day upon the sign being given by certain fires and should fall upon the enemies Trenches Gatta was to assault those which were between the Porporata and a certain Channel which is called Martinetto and the Governour those which do terminate on the banks of Poe neer Valentino that the same night 1000 Horse should be sent to the Prince by a Foord over the Poe which being joyned to his Horse might enable the Prince to sally strongly out of the City that same night and face the enemies Horse The Prince was to go with this recruit of Horse and with the Spaniards which were with him towards Valentino to facilitate the Governours entrance on the innerside and to the end that these three which were the chief actions might succeed the better the Governour was to place eight piece of Cannon upon the hills beyond
the Governour on the out side or ready to be assaulted and being gotten to Pioppi he took a Farm-house and a neighbouring Chappel which environed the Fort which was assaulted on the out side and though he saw the souldiers very desirous to fall upon the same Fort on the inside yet he held it better to restrain their forwardness till he might see the succourers Ensigns â—…dvanced in that Fort for the Governour at the same time that Gatta assaulted the Trenches was gone from his quarters to Montcalleri and went to assault Valentino but not with any intention of adventuring the rest of his Forces theâ—…e his chief end was to entertain the Enemy in desending that part so as they might not oppose Gatta who when he should have broken into the line of circumvolution was to joyn with the Prince and fall joyntly on the Trenches on the inside and assist the assault from without to the end that the Trench being thrown down both within and without they might raise the Siege and ruine the besiegers The eight Cannons on the Hill beyond the Poe had from the break of the day plaid uncessantly upon the Parapets of the Trenches about Valentino which were to be assaulted and having broken down a Bulwark which was neer the banks of Poe towards which the Governour sent Don Lewis di Lincastro with his Brigade and with many Ladders Bridges and little Huts after whom he also sent the other Camp-master Don Iovan Artiaga with his Brigade and with some of Prince Borso's and Don Pignatello's Brigades against a Fort which flank'd the way from Montcalleri and which was the same upon which the Prince expected to see the victorious Ensigns set but these and the rest being somewhat at a loss they occasioned some confusion yet they went on to an assault but though the assault were twice re-inforced they could do no good upon it but were at last forced to retreat wherefore the Governour finding that the aids from within were not answerable to his Forces without began to apprehend Gatta's success since he could not hear that he was entred so as night drawing on and having lost 500 Foot in that assault and six Captains he caused a retreat to be beaten and gave over the enterprise a more unfortunate or disastrous succour then this hath not been read of for it ended very unfortunately not only for that Gatta had no ways aided the Governour in his assault nor for that he had not guarded not kept open the breach he had made and whereby he entred but for that having carried neither powder nor victuals with him it served to no purpose for without these those that were entred were neither able to force the Enemies quarters nor to defend the City so as their entrance did but little good nay rather harm since they were to be sed by the Cities Victuals those who entred being as it were so many imprisoned Sampsons imployed in nothing but in turning about Hand-mills to supply themselves with Victuals and the City with Grift nor did the mischief cease here for the Governours Army being deprived of so noble a part of his men who being broken into the Trenches were there shut up was rendred unable for bringing any more succour and on the contrary the French Army was hereby freed from all danger it languished before for hunger and was only sed with slender hopes whether the succour which was expected from France would force its way or no through the Pass and opposition which was made at Collegno where their fear was certainly greater then their hopes but Gatta's assault removed all difficulties for that he might give it he had left but a small Garrison in Collegno and the Gates almost open so as the French succour made use of the occasion and almost beyond all expectation came the next day after Gatta's entrance to the Enemies Camp and having recruited it with Victuals and Men did in an instant free it from the misery it was in being almost ready to ask mercy of the Enemy or to retreat as it did at Cheri and made it frollick and couragious and of being almost conquered it became Conqueror and having no cause to fear the Spanish Army it became doubly formidable as well by the encrease of its own Forces as by the weakning of the Spanish Army The Scene of affairs being thus strangely altered new and more fervent rancours and reciprocal complaints arose between the Prince and the Governour and between their Souldiers and Captains each of them laying the fault of this disaster upon other The Governour that he was too much importuned to this action by the Prince and said that if he had continued a few days longer in his own course he had assuredly gotten a famous Victory without effusion of blood he also complained that the Prince had not assisted from within the assault which he gave without which was the occasion of all the misfortune on the contrary the Prince exclaimed horribly upon the Governour for that he had not sent him any Horse by Vanchiglia that he came not really and with all his Forces to assault the Trenches that he had altered the time appointed without giving him any notice and he also complained of some lesser failings which he said did concur to the misfortune of the success It would be too tedious to relate the bitter accusations which they laid one upon another or rather the redargutions which past between the fautorers of them both to insist upon which too accurately belongs not to the Office of a good Writer The Governour seeing this unfortunate success and the loss of those men who were entred the City without Ammunition bit his fingers ends for madness was grieved at the very heart and blamed himself for having suffered himself to be removed from his first resolution and considering that the mischief would be yet greater and irrecoverable unless he could find some means to send Ammunition of War into the City he cast about how he might do it and having long thought upon the business he could not light upon a better way then to convey it over by the Ford of the Poe called Margerita over against Vanchillia he therefore sent some loads underneath the Hill which coming into the Valley which answers upon that Foord they came to the River but the Governour having made signs to the Prince by some fires that he should send Horse to the River to receive them for all commerce between the besieged and the Spanish Camp was so block'd up as they could not converse but by such signs that now hapned which doth often times fall out that the signs not being understood but very little good was got thereby so as none appearing from the City at the Foord the Carriages returned back by the same way that they went And on the other side fearing what might ensue if no help were found out against this default got together as much Salt-peter and Sulphur as he
by the lower Valley and then take some little works not far from the aforesaid petty Forts and afterward the Forts themselves These difficulties did not at all trouble the Prince who thought they might all he overcome if all the Forces which could be raised in the City would go oâ—… unexpectedly by night and fall upon them He therefore desired that when he should have overcome all those difficulties and should be master of the bridge that the Governour should be ready with all his Forces on the other side to pass over the River by that bridge and joyn with him in suppressing the French Camp wherein he did not doubt of success And to the end that the weakness of the Governours Camp might not keep him from taking this resolution he ordered Don Silvio to joyn with the Governour with 1000 Foot and 600 Horse and that the Marquess Bagnasco should do the like with a thousand other Foot by means of which recruits and of 2000 Foot that were come from Millain he thought the Governour could not under pretence of weakness refuse the proposal He therefore acquainted him with his advice with his reasons for it and with the manner and form how it should be put in practice desiring and exhorting him that he would assist him on his side with all possible force and punctuality and joyn freely in this attempt which as it might justly be thought to be the last so he did promise unto himself it should prove the happy end of the siege and of the war He also writ unto him what was to be done for the happy conduct of the enterprise which was that he was to come privately with all his men about the going down of day and that he should be two hours before day at the foot of the hill that was nearest the Bridge where he should tarry till he saw the six squibs fly which he would give fire unto when he should be master of the bridge that then he should advance to the bank and joyn with him by the bridge concluding that he should let him know sometime that day whether he would do this or not for otherwise he protested he could hold out the siege no longer but was resolved to close with the French This proposal to boot that general diffidences made against it and the Governours wonted aversion to hazard more then he had already done seemed full of difficulty and danger and impossible to be effected and destructive to what both the Governour and the Prince was to do For as for the Prince he being to fight by night against an Enemy recruited by new and gallant Forces and many of the Nobility against several Trenches and Fortifications the attempt would be more then rash and as for the Governour though fortune should so favour the Prince his bold attempt as that he should make himself master of the bridge yet the other misfortunes remained which were to be met with in passing over the River for the bridge by which they were to pass over was not made of sound timber but onely sustained by small rafters and so streight as not above three foot could march over it aâ—…brest without sides or parapetets exposed on the one side to the Muskets of the bridge neer the Capuchins and behind to the Arillery placed upon the Capuchins Covent So as give it for granted that the bridge were both sound and firm those that should pass pass over it must needs be torne in pieces by the Musket-shot and by the Artillery and those few who by miracle should get to the other shoar not being shelter'd by those very little Forts they must necessarily be welcomed over by the Enemies Musketiers who would undoubtedly be come thither and would kill them so as they should not come to relieve others but to be slain themselves Out of these Reasons the Prince his design which was carried on rather out of a great desire of freeing himself then by any well weighed reason was not approved by the Governour But because the closing with the French and surrender of the City was added in case of refusal the Governour resolved to satisfie the proposal rather in shew then in substance The Prince was therefore inform'd that he should be satisfied according to his own manner and to this purpose the Governour moved the same night with his men towards the place appointed The Prince believing in the Governours correspondency betook himself cheerfully to the business he gave order that a thousand Dutch who guarded the Trenches opposite to the Citadel should at the sign of going off of a Cannon assault the Citadel to divert the Enemy in so important a place he disposed of the Ecclesiasticks and others of the weak vulgar in defence of the Walls he went out of the City himself with the rest of the Garrison and with such Citizens as were fittest to manage Arms and being full of hopes he appointed several parts for falling on to his best experienced Commanders he deputed others to defend those ways by which the Enemy might break in to disturb them all these Commanders did their devoire the line of the inward Circumvolution was broken and the other Fortifications taken then coming to the Bridge they also easily mastered the other smaller Forts so as the Prince seemed to have wholly pâ—…rformed his paâ—… The last thing that was to be done was to give fire to the squibs whereby to call in the Governour but he came not some said because he was killed who was to fire the squibs but this appearing to be too unlikely others said that the Prince knowing that the Governour was too far off to come in time enough with his men to his succour thought it was superfluous to give fire to the squibs which appeared to be less likely then the former alledged reason the truth was that the little Forts were not well taken when all the French flock'd in so fast as they were abandoned as speedily as they were taken those that defended one of them ran away and those of the other who made some resistance were cut in pieces so as there was no time to call in the Governour by firing the squibs who had he been come to the Bridge which was recovered by the French could not have gotten thereby over to joyn with the Prince The whole French Camp moved at the first going off of the Cannon which was the sign given by the Prince to his men to fall on and General Harcourt accompanied by a good body of men hazarded himself in the business but being entertained by Marquess Serra who was appointed to defend that station though he met with stout opposition yet more men coming in unto him he made his way thorow the Enemy in which conflict Serra fought valiantly but having lost his Serjeant-Major six Captains and many of his best Souldiers he was forced for safety of his life to throw himself down head-long into a Valley that was below General Harcourt
men so far within Piedmont and leave so many of the Enemies Towns on his back especially being to pass over so many Rivers with Artillery Baggage and Victuals to overcome difficult passes to fight continually and to defend himself from being infested by Marquess Villa who beating the Campagnia with his Horse would gaul him now on the one side now on the other and would continually incommodiate him and which was of greater consideration he was to affront an enemy stronger then himself and who was intrench'd wherefore the Governour and other Captains not thinking it fit to hazard themselves in so dangerous a business they resolved to try whither they could free Conio or no by diversion as they had done Inurea they therefore gave the Prince a good strength of Horse and Foot who went from Asti together with the Marquess of Caracena to Ceri whereby they infused jealousie into Carmagnuola and Chiavasso but Marquess Villa mar'd these designs who either foreseeing or fearing these drifts put forces into both those places so as the Prince being frustrated in his intention turned back upon Chirasco a place of greater concernment and fitter to relieve Cenio by reason of the neerness thereof Cherasco is one of the strongest places of Piedmont not so much by nature as by art but not equally on all sides and which had been long neglected as being no frontier Town and wherein was at this time but a weak French Garrison it being one of those Towns which were assigned over by the Dowager to the King of France in the year 39. so as the Prince thought he might securely take it but Marquess Villa did here also deceive him for fearing that the Prince being kept out of the other two Towns would come before this he sent word immediately to Seignior di Savigni who was Governour thereof that he might call in all the Country people thereabouts and he also sent him a Troop of Dragoons and 500 foot were sent to him from the Camp nor did Villa's diligence cease here for fearing also Savigliano and the quarters of the Camp in case the Prince should adventure to fall unexpectedly upon either of them he sent men into Savigliano and went himself at the same time into the Campagnia with the rest of his men advancing so neer Cunio as he could not be kept from thence if it should be needful for him to go to the Camp the Prince going from Cheri with 1500 choice Foot and with all the Cavalry of the Camp except the Neapolitans marched towards Chirasco and not having notice of the new recruits sent by Villa he betook himself with much courage and hope to the enterprise he divided his Foot into two parts and making the greatest part of his Cavalry get off Horse-back he ordered assaults to be given by night on sundry parts but all the Squadrons which were sent met with such hinderances as they could not fall on at the same time so as they did but little good and gave the defendants opportunity to make the greater resistance where they were assaulted and the Towns-men who shew'd themselves faithful to the Dowager took up Arms and ran couragiously to make defence so the Prince being repulst not without much loss retreated to Sommariva where he tarried some days but being egg'd on by honour and by the prejudice which would redound to their party if the Town should be lost he would try his fortune once more which the place being newly re-enforced did not favour him yet both parties fought valiantly for many hours the assailants mounted the Walls several times and were still beaten back they sometimes entred the Town and were repuls'd and in these interchanges of fortune the defendants having the better of the businesse about break of day the Prince was forced to retreat having lost above four hundred men The more unfortunate these diversive attempts proved the more successfully did the Siege of Conio proceed for Harcourt not being at all diverted by these the Enemies attempts and joy'd that Chirasco was out of danger which otherwise might peradventure have made him forego Conio to relieve it he continued more constant in the Siege he therefore laid aside all treaties of agreement and betook himself more roundly to the taking of Conio but neither were the Prince nor Governour discouraged for their bad success nor did they forbear attempting to relieve the Town by diversion The Governour sent Don Iohn Vasques Camp-master-general with the Foot and Don Vincenzo Conzago with the Horse to assault Rossignano who when they were come neer it hearing that above 200 Montferrians were entred the Town forbare doing any thing there and went by Order from the Governour to Montcalvo where whilst there was fair hopes of doing good the Prince who was with almost all the Horse and with 600 Foot in the parts about Villanuova advertised the Governour that he heard there was not above 600 Foot in Chiavasso wherefore he thought it fit to attempt the taking of it for it being a place of almost as great concernment as Conio it was not unlikely but that the Enemy might forego the one not to lose the other but the Governour who had oftentimes found the Princes Forces to be more forward then fortunate was not willing to yield to the proposal the rather for that he was very neer taking Montcalvo yet being much sollicited he though much against his will bad the Prince take up his quarters about Chiavasso and that if he should hear that no new recruits were entred the Town he should send him word and he would come in to his assistance with all his men hoping that in the mean while he might take Montcalvo The Prince upon the Governours promise went with 600 Foot which he caused to come from Inurea and together with him went the Marquess of Caracena with the Horse and took up their quarters and finding that the Town was not re-enforced he advertised the Governour thereof desiring him to joyn with him in the Enterprise The business of Montcalvo was not yet perfected though it advanced prosperously every day wherefore the Governour who that he might not prefer the certainty of the business of Montcalvo before the uncertainty of that of Chiavasso had against his will permitted the Prince to go to before Chiavasso the more he saw the Siege of Montcalvo draw neer an end the less fit he thought it to abandon the one for the uncertainty of the other wherefore feeding the Prince with delays he entertained him so long with words with sending and re-sending Messengers till he might see Montcalvo taken but the Prince being frustrated of all hopes and finding that the Governor continued his delays arose from before Chiavasso and retreated to Inurea being sufficiently scandalized that the Governour should rather suffer him to riâ—…e from before Chiavasso then Vasques from before Montcalvo which he alledged did not only redound to the prejudice of his the Princes honour but to the
well awake The Dowager and the Prince hearing of this so sudden and so unexpected success sent both of them speedily to repair it The Dowager with fortunate speed sent the Companies of her guard and of her Sons commanded by the Counts of Aglie Feusasco Piusasco and Tana who coming hastily to the City with their Souldiers which were 300 Horse and some Foot which they took up in their march entred the City in sight of the Enemy who having taken the Citadel meant to take the City which they easily might have done had not the Citizens and the Garrison who were encouraged by this recruit put themselves in a posture of safety not fearing to be over-powered as they had hourly reason to doubt before they therefore breathed a while expecting the Prince his coming who not being able to march so fast by reason of the number of men which he brought with him to relieve the languishing City came thither just then when the Enemy by reason of his appearance thought it good to draw off from the City to the necessary defence of the Citadel The Prince having reduced the City to her former condition of safety did so munite it as that it was not only able to defend it self but to threaten the Citadel and retreating to Camerano he gave himself to impede any attempt which might be made by the Spaniards who notwithstanding conveyed both men and munition into the Citadel which were sent them from the Governour who was come into Alessandria but the Siege of St. Ia although somewhat disturb'd by this accident was not given over for the Prince having substituted the Governour of Cassalle Covogne in his place it was strongly continued the Town was much plaid upon by batteries and sallies stoutly repuls'd insomuch as Don Diego Alverado who was Governour of the Town having made honourable resistance when he saw the Town was no longer to be maintain'd surrendred it upon honourable conditions The Prince having rid his hands of this business betook himself wholly to the recovery of the Citadel of Asti which being besieged and batter'd in vain held out and did not only annoy the besiegers with their great and small shot but even the City it self but not being able to do any more it yielded to the Prince who since the defendants had suffeâ—…ed themselves to be reduced to the utmost extremity would not receive them but upon discretion which he used notwithstanding very modestly suffering the common sort to go forth friendly and detaining their Captains and Officers only till such time as two piece of Cannon which were drawn out of the Citadel were restored by the Governour and some prisoners of War that were in his hands The City and Citadel of Asti being freed the Prince went with some 5000 Foot into the Langhe and having left Marquess Villa with the Dowagers Horse for a relief on his back he advanced to the Ligustick Sea even neer to Finale intending to fall upon that Marquisate both by land and sea when the French Fleet should be come from Catalognia to Provence and to make himself master of it and the Prince being already come to the Gates of the Town was lodged in the Church called Pia within Musket-shot of Finale and had taken up some other convenient quarters The Garrison was but weak in Finale a good part thereof being sent two days before by Don Iohn di Castro Governour of that Marquisate to defend Cingio fearing lest the Prince should assault it and it wanted provision of bread but both these wants were supplied by Genova the Spanish Embassadour victuals were sent thither by Sea and the Governour sent Fra. Iovanni Pallavicino with 1300 Foot from Millain who with no less speed and fortune then he had done at Arona past over the Mountains neer Genoa and being come to Voltri went by the sea side to Finale where he entred with his men before the face of the Enemy The Prince had not brought victuals with him to feed his men in that barren Country for he expected to be furnished therewith by the French Fleet which not appearing the Prince seeing the Town well recruited and provided himself and his men in great scarcity of victuals and hearing that the Militia gathered together apace round about knew he could not tarry there without much danger wherefore he gave over the enterprise and retreated into Montferrat freeing that Marquisate from the danger it would have fallen into had the Prince tarried therebut one day longer for the very next day after his departure the Fleet appeared at Sea which hearing that the Prince was gone towards Montferrat return'd also to Provence from whence it was come This being the last thing that was done by the Spaniards French and Piedmonteses in the year 1644 for the Armies were sent to their Winter Quarters after this business of Finale We will end this our second part and in the third will treat of the Wars which were raised elsewhere between the Pope on the one side and the Commonwealth of Venice the great Duke of Tuscany the Dukes of Modena and Parma on the other side which having hapned at the same time that these by us related did we that we might not confound order in the Affairs of the two first Books have reserved for the following part where looking back they shall be related and pursued with all truth and sincerity FINIS †Caesarve priorem Pompeiusve parem Lucan lib. 1