indeavour at least the getting of some-what some-where else Hee therefore quitting the Palatinat entred into Bavaria at Landsperg and came before Biberack the which he did furiously set upon for his Souldiers who were accustomed to Conquest being long kept fasting were very forwards so as the Towne not being able to resist such Assaults as the Swedes prepared to make wanting both sufficient Garrison and Walls yeelded on the 12th of Aprill and 400 Foot and 70 Horse were suffered to march out Hornes returne into Swabenland gave Allarme to all the Imperialists thereabouts and awakened the Commanders and this his comming causing many men to wonder who thought it was incredible that he should forsake Bavaria some began to thinke there was some-what more in 't and in particular Ossa who commanded in those precincts was more suspitious then the rest as was soone after seen in Colonell Peter Chinich of Salutorne Governour of Lindaw who was arrested and sent prisoner with a good guard into Tiroll but his reputation suffred in no one particular but only by the false suspition of the said Ossa who bore him little good will occasioned by the great friendship and correspondency which Chinich held with the Switzers and in particular with those of Zurich and Berne two Cantons which confided but indifferently in the Austrians and this much the more because some Spaniards that were of Ossa's party and held not that any one could be faithfull to them who was not a Romanist fearing much lest Chinich might be a Protestant and by reason of the good opinion the Protestants had of him they agreed to ruine him rather to free themselves of this suspition then for that he deserved it which was sufficient to nourish a conceipt that he had held Intelligence with the Duke of Rohan who was then in Rhetia And matters of State being like wax which takes heat and is distemperd upon any the least occasion he was imprisoned before he was accused though his innocency appearing afterwards by his absolution his loyalty shone forth the brighter Filisberg which as we have already said was besieged by the Swedes was now by Famine brought to great extremity insomuch as Bawmbergher and Swarez who had the custody thereof yeelded upon parly and had very honourable conditions the Fort being surrendred up to Colonell Smigberg on the 13th of Ianuary The losse of this place though it were not of so great consideration in respect of the situation yet it being a principall place it was in the present conjuncture thought to import much by reason of the consequences which depended on it for that it was likely it might fall into the Frenchmens hands who when they should have gotten thither they might easily advance further and maintaine themselves in Alsatia and in the lower Palatinat Yet they who seemed to be greater Politicians discoursed alternately hereupon those who opposed the reasons alleaged by the Swedes answered that it was better to leave it in the hands of the Imperialists then to win it for the French to whom when they should not surrender it they should shew little desire of continuing longer friendship with them by which their Interests was to receive no small detriment and by granting it the gaine would appeare to be prejudiciall for besides the depriving of themselves of such a place to retreat unto they would draw a power upon their shoulders which assuming unto it selfe the title of being arbitratour of their affaires the Swedes who should continue in those parts would consequently be brought to reverence the Lawes of France from whence it would insue that their authority being limited and made dependant on the French their atchievements would be unperfect and their greatnesse would not be suffered to exceed the limits which they should allow them And though others said that it was not to be imagined that the French would betake themselves to a businesse of small satisfaction suppose the negative thereunto were granted for that their Interests required good intelligence with friends of so great power who might otherwise wax jealous yet wise men foresaw that no good effect could ensue hereupon since that the desire of rule is blinde and the reasons of preserving it prevaile over whatsoever other respect But the considerations which the Protestants had hereupon were farre short of those held by the Austrians for they thought this to be a greater losse then any they yet had suffered not for that the Swedes or Protestants got much thereby whose power consisting in the Union of many they hoped that in time and by such meanes as they might use they should recover from them what they had lost but for feare lest it should fall into the hands of the French whose greatnesse being upheld by the Crown of their onely Monarch and those Provinces neighbouring upon their Kingdome they well âoresaw what difficulties they should meet withall in the regaining of it The mindes therefore of the Councellours were confused their judgements uncertaine their resolutions timorous their remedies doubtfull and their hopes inconstant Yet all this notwithstanding the Spaniards who are alwayes undaunted in adversity carefull of their affaires and most faithfull in all their doings failed not with their refined judgements to calme the perplexity of their mindes to secure their feares to advise what was expedient to proportion agreements and to confirme faith in the certainty of hope The end of the seventh Book DOCTRINA PARIT VIRTUTEM The Warres and other State-Affaires of the best part of Christendome THE VIII BOOK The Contents of the Eighth Booke Wherein is described what the Austrians condition was in Italy and in Germany The doath and fashions of the Duke of Feria Iealousies in the Austrian Ministers of State touching Walesteines behaviour Meanes used by them to guard themselves against his infidelitie Orders taken therein and how his death ensued The rumours caused hereupon A Compendium of his life and qualities with an opinion upon the efficacy of his fortune and of his Army Ferdinand King of Hungary chosen chiefe Commander of the Imperialists Forces His preparations to march into the Field Divers proceedings of the Swedes in Swabenland and Alsatia Charles Duke of Lorayne his making over his estate to the Cardinall his Brother This mans marriage with the Princesse Claudia Iealousies caused in the French by reason of this Marriage the flight of the Duke and Dutches from Nancy The going of Prince Thomas of Savoy to take upon him the command of the Spanish Forces in Flanders The Swedes undertakings in Swabenland The King of Hungaries entrance into the Field The Swedes Negotiations in Holland and in England The Landgrave of Hessen his proceedings The Siege of Motha and of Bitsch in Lorayne THe Spanish Army was this meane while quartered in Bavaria to recruit themselves and the Spaniards and Italians were very solicitous and diligent in compleating their Companies that they might recover that renowne which was rather lessened by the badnesse of
and somewhat of unknowne was agreed upon by the Duke in favour of the King of Spaine Crequi this mean while playd upon Valânza on all sides in so much as those that were wel-wishers to the French gave out a report that Valenza would yeeld or be lost which being got hold of by the common people began to be believed by the great ones and the wisest And this the rather for that the wary Crequi seeing how little good his Forces could doe unassisted by Savoy and Parma from whom as yet he had received nothing but hopes save 10 Companies of Curasses from Savoy under the command of Monsieur Flort a French Gentleman and Marshall of the Field resolved upon some prevalent meanes to perswade the Duke of Parma to declare himselfe openly against the Spaniards for when he should have done so Savoy would have all excuses taken from him why he should not condiscend to the desires incessant pressures made unto him by the French And the more to make Parma as being the further off declare himselfe for the French Crequi by expresse messengers sent him word that the Towne was already so distressed by his assaults as it would doubtlessely suddenly be tane that therefore he desired him to come and honour the Forces of France with his presence for that by so doing he might the more ingratiate himselfe into the favour of the King of France by declaring himselfe when the event of things were yet uncertaine The Duke believing that Crequi spoke like a reall friend being moreover desirous of glory and inheartned by hopes of bettering his condition with the division of the State of Milan suffered himselfe contrary to the opinion of his owne Counsellours to be perswaded by Crequi and to that purpose mustering his men at Saint Iohns Castle where were found to be 4000 Foot and 800 Horse he on the 30th of August sent some Squadrons on this side Poe into the Territories of Coniado the demeanes of Prince Trivullio and on the first of September those of Parma marched very secretly through the Country of Tortona and not meeting with any incounter came before that Town where staying a while and the Duke quartering himselfe neer Poe in Signor Scampa's Palace a Battery was suddainly raised on that side also against the Tenalia which was held by the besieged and moreover hee threw a Bridge of Boates over the River in that part as the Duke of Savoy did likewise on the other side who came thither also soone after with about 5000 men and this was done that they might passe on this side the River and hinder the succour which those of Valenza might receive by the Bridge which was guarded by the Spaniards The Spaniards being very much grieved at the Duke of Parma's hostility and the more for that they had alwayes beene held by the Dukes his predecessors as arbitrators of the affaires of that Dukedome could not tollerate the proceedings of the present Edward they therefore complained bitterly to the Pope to the end that that Dukedome holding of the Church and consequently the Pope being obliged to defend it hee should not afterwards have reason to move them to withdraw their Forces if they should invade that Dukedome since the Duke thereof had first given the occasion The Pope being wrought upon by such perswasions wisht the Duke not to molest the State of Milan lest hee might afterwards give the Spaniards occasion of waging Warre against him the Duke and therein interest the holy Sea The Duke of Parma pretending to have just cause to breake with the Spaniards dispatcht away a Gentleman of his to Genua to advertise that Republicke of his comming into the field and soone after publisht a Manifesto expressing therein what benefits the Crowne of Spaine had recived from his house and how on the contrary that Crowne had evilly requited him how Regent Villani had threatned him for that he had not consented to what had been propounded prejudiciall to his State in respect of sending him into Flanders as hostage of the others faith how instant the Emperours Embassadour had been with him to disburse more Mony then he was able and how he had sent an Embassadour into Spaine to represent unto his Catholicke Majesty how much hee might expect from him which Embassadour was entertained there many Moneths and at last returned backe without any answer The Spaniards knowing very well that the State of Milan was not to be succoured by help from Germany by reason that the passages of the Valteline were stopt by Rohan and that therefore they were to indeavour succour by Sea where it behoved them to have a considerable Fleet to scoure the Seas without danger of the French Vessels had already prepared a good Squadron of Gallies and round-botomb'd Boates in the Mediterranian under the command of Marquis Santa Croââ and thinking it was very fit for their purpose to take the Islands of S. Mârguerit and S. Honore places which would not onely have facilitated their navigation but be a hindrance to the French who passe from Marselles into the Territories of Genua and consequently would be a great trouble to the transportation of such provisions as they should indeavour to send to their Armies in the State of Milan and Montferrat sailed thitherward and landing some of their Foot made themselves easily masters thereof for the French not expecting such an attempt had neglected to put such defence into those Islands as was requisite for them The end of the tenth Book DOCTRINA PARIT VIRTUTEM The Warres and other State-Affaires of the best part of Christendome THE XI BOOK The Contents of the Eleventh Book The French continue to oppugne Valenza the Spaniards defend themselves valiantly many men of qualitie are slaine before it Gustavenburg falls into the Imperialists hands The Crabats invade France and are worsted Monsieur De Belieure the French Embassadour goes to many Princes of Italy Valenza is luckily succoured by the Spaniards which causeth the French-men to rayse their Siege being ill satisfied with the Duke of Savoy A great bickering in the Valteline betweene Rohan and Serbellone The Spaniards desire and obtaine passage from the Papists Cantons of Switzers for succour from Germany for Milan The Saxons proceedings against the Swedes Marquis Villa passes with those of Parma into the Countrey of Piacenza Marquis Leganes comes to Milan The Court of France is much troubled at the retreat from Valenza Consultation is had upon what is expâdient to continue the Warre in Italy The Duke of Parma goes into France to speake with the King Villa enters in hostile manner upon the Territories of the Duke of Modena and is made retire The King of England indeavours the restitution of the Palatinate but in vaine The Emperour demands helpe from the Princes of Italy for the Warre of Germany New Dutch Forces come to the State of Milan whereupon the Spaniards pursue to invade the Territories of the Duke of Parma The French
likewise who was very affectionate to the house of Austria to boot with the Brigado of Foot which he raysed at his owne costs in Helvetia did upon this occasion likewise assist the state of Milan with 300 Horse under the command of Marquis Cosimo Richardi Whereupon Beliviere leaving Venice came to Florence not out of any intention to make the great Duke side with the Crowne of France but at least to moderate the evill opinion which the Princes of Italy might have taken of that Crowne by reason of the French-mens falling into Italy and to keepe the great Duke as much as possibly he could from assisting the Spaniards And because the opinion grew stronger every day that the Duke of Savoy held secret intelligence with the Spaniards 't is said that to moderate in some sort this report the King of Spaines Agents held it fit to dismisse the Abbot Torre who was the Duke of Savoyes Embassadour from Milan under pretence that considering the breach made by his Master against the King of Spaine it was not fitting a Minister of his should keep with those against whom he had declared himselfe an open Enemy At this time Don Franchesco di Mello a man of great esteeme sent as extraordinary Embassadour from Spaine to the Emperour tooke Milan in his way and staid there it being reported he was to have beene made Governour thereof The Spaniards this meane while building very much upon the Duke of Modena's declaring himselfe for them as well for the assistance they might expect from that Prince of warlike people as for the credit of being reverenced by such an Italian Potentate not respecting the right of discent in the Prince of Correggio mediated with the Emperour therein in the behalfe of the Duke of Modena that the true Prince might be deprived thereof and the other invested thereinto as it insued upon the promise of disbursing 200000 Dollars The Elector of Saxony having after some dayes stout defence made by the Swedes taken the Castle of Hall knew it was requisite for him to joyne with the Imperiall Troopes who were then in good numbers about Franckfort upon the Oder that they might joyntly invade those Townes which were by them pretended unto and were held and gainsaid them by the Swedes He therefore marched towards Berlin a Citie of Brandenberg upon the Hault where the Swedes were who were much grieved at the uniting of those Forces as making much against that which they intended and being hereof advertised Bannier thought it expedient to remove from thence Therefore having brought his Souldiers neere Ratzaw and having quickly taken Verbeâ which not being in a condition to stand out immediately Articled the small Garrison which guarded it marching out with their Bagge and Baggage he left therein a good guard for it was a place of some moment for him and then marched with his Army towards the Enemy where some Regiments of the Swedish Horse meeting with some Squadrons of the Saxons which scoured the Countrey they so evilly treated them as that they made them runne away to the Electors head-quarters The Elector of Brandenburg was much troubled with this Hostility betweene the Swedes and Saxons who confining upon them both if he should declare himselfe for either side he should bring the Warre home to his owne doores So was likewise the Duke of Mechelberg who could expect nothing but much prejudice from this their falling out Therefore an accommodation betweene the Swedes and Saxons being very much desired by those two Princes they were not wanting in their best indeavours to compose those differences but they could doe no good therein for the Swedish Commanders being particularly offended by the Elector and incited through a deâire of Warre whereon their greatnesse did consist for they thereby much inriched themselves held the businesse in suspence upon very small hopes and at last all the differences consisting in a declaration which contained that before they would proceed further they would be repossessed of all that they did possesse the yeare 1634. the Treaty fell to the ground The French-men fayling in their intentions of taking Valenza which for the reasons formerly alledged they much desired seeing that the numbers of the Spaniards did dayly increase in the state of Milan by the assistance of other Princes their friends for now the Dutch began to march towards them under the command of Prince Borso of Este and Colonell Giledas together with other Switzers to boot with many Foot that were raysed in the state of Modena and in Tuscany and those that every day were landed from Spaine and Naples thought it fitting to ease the quarters of Montferrat which began to be very burthensome to those people by sending backe the Duke of Parma's Forces into their owne Countrey But because their numbers were much lessened in lying before Vabenza and that they could not without evident danger passe through the Territories of Tortona and so enter into Piacenza without being back't with greater Forces and when they should be luckily arrived there they were not able to defend their state from the Spaniards who were expected to invade them they indeavoured all they might to make the Duke of Savoy joyne his Generall the Marquis Villa with those of Parma who with the Savoy Horse might back the Duke of Parma till he should come to his own home where when he should be they would then bethinke themselves of new resolutions to which the Duke gave way though he suspected that the French did this to weaken his Forces that they might have him the more at their beck for by his suffering Valenza to be succoured the French had renewed the former jealousies they had of his actions Villa therefore left his quarters and marching towards Tortona began to doe as was agreed upon but the Spaniards who had heard hereof sent speedily away 3000 Foot and 10 Companies of Horse to Tortona whither they came on the 23th of December and lodged in the Suburbs of the Citie from whence they sent out Scouts to discover the Enemies proceedings and understanding that Villa with his Horse appeared already in very good order upon the Territories of that Town they thought it expedient to foord over the Sârivia a Torrent not far from thence and send some Horse towards the Savoyards seconded by divers Files of Musquets intending to set upon them on the Flanke and by fighting with them to make the Colleagues alter their intentions But the Spaniards finding themselves not strong enough to encounter them though they were somewhat advantaged by the protection of the Citie and the Cannon thereof which playd upon the Enemies Horse being come within their reach they kept their stations forbearing to make any further attempt so as while this was a doing the Foot which marched on the other side came successefully to the new Castle of Scrivia not having so much as one Musquet-shot made at them though there were some Spanish and Neapolitan Foot there and
confused in their following of him he left the Campe full of fires though no body was therein and having put part of his Foot into Magdeburg he with his Horse wasting all the neighbouring Territories retired to Serbest some six houres march from Magdeburg over-running all parts thereabouts and pillaging the Townes even to Brandeburg and from thence to Havell to the end that the Saxons finding neither Victualls nor Forrage might be incommodiated in their Siege and not be able to keepe long before that Citie and meeting with two Regiments of Saxons who were advanced to watch over and oppose his designes being in condition to withstand them for some of Maracinies men were come up to him he ingaged himselfe with them in a gallant fight routed them and tooke from them eleaven Standards flew 200. tooke many prisoners and returned againe to Serbest But the Elector having sent some Barques of Ammunition and instruments of Warre downe the River to Rossemburg a Towne upon the Sala and Elb he himselfe likewise advanc't thether being joyned with Azfelt who brought with him about 9000 fighting-men and having made two Bridges upon Boats over the Elb and Sala he commanded Azfelt to advance towards Magdeburg on the Bishopricke of Halberstats side and he himselfe past with his men on the other side the Elb to set upon Bannier to drive him from Zerbest and to begin the Siege But he found the Swedes parted from thence and quartered betweene Magdeburg and Werben in Tregemonde where they expected Oranghell who was already at Stetin with 8000 Souldiers They therefore halted here and fortified themselves making a Bridge that as time should serve they might succour Magdeburg which being strongly set upon by the Saxons those within the Towne did valiantly defend it and by gallant and continuall sallies did annoy the Enemy in their ãâã and quarters The Hollanders did now besiege and batter Sckinck-Sconce the former losse whereof as hath beene said did much trouble them in succour whereof Colonell Iohn de Nassaw was come with his men to Cleves a Citie three leagues distance from thence and the Spaniards were likewise advanced who tryed on all sides though in vaine to surprise the Hollanders in their Trenches who were so well fortified with Trenches re-doubts and their men did so desperately behave themselves as the Spaniards holding it impossible to break into them resolved to returne to Cleves and Goch where a little before to the universall sorrow of the Infanta and all the Commanders of that Army the Marquis of Aytona dyed a Gentleman greatly wise and as well courteous in his demeanour as valiant and experienced in Warre At this retreat the Hollanders being much incouraged and not desisting day and night to batter and assault the Fort they at last set upon it with such force and boldnesse as the defendants wanting further meanes to maintaine it and the Hollander being dead therein who had surprised it and who was sent thether by the Spaniards to defend it they Articled on the 26th day of May and on the 30th of the same Moneth about 900 Foot marched out with their Armes Baggage Drums beating Colours flying and 4 pieces of Cannon and marched towards Ghelders and the Hollanders entred to the great applause and ineffable content of all the States and people of those Provinces But if Fortune favoured the Hollanders in assisting them so quickly to compasse their desired enterprise she frown'd upon the Imperialists before Hannaw for though Lamboye was succoured by 3000 Souldiers and that he did more and more streighten the Fort the Swedes and Inhabitants by valiant defending themselves and by unheard of daring and continuall sallies annoying the Caesarian quarters they kept them at distance and in awe and making excursions even to the banks of the Maine they fired the Barques that were sent to Franckfort which caused a great dearth in that Citie the Inhabitants whereof were reduced to that poynt as they durst not for feare of the Garrison of Hannaw goe one mile out of the Citie nor live in the neighbouring Villages The end of the eleventh Book DOCTRINA PARIT VIRTUTEM The Warres and other State Affaires of the best part of Christendome THE XII BOOK The Contents of the Twelfth Book The Spaniards are much troubled to heare of the French-mens passing into the state of Parma They advise about and provide for their affairs Rohan enters into Valsazena and breakes the building wherein Cannon Bullets were made The King of England sends the Earle of Arundell to the Emperour about the Palatinate The Landsgrave of Hessen having surprized Minden succours Hannaw Duke Waymer declared Generall of France and Swethland in Germany prepares for Warre Dole in Burgundy is besieged by the French The Duke of Parma returnes privatly to his own Dominions Crequi with his Army enters into the heart of the state of Milan He cuts off the water from Navillio that goes to Milan Incamps himselfe on the fields of Castane and puts all the neighbouring parts in great feare The Spaniards invade Picardy and by the falshood of some of the Governours take some Forts The Duke of Orleans in head of his Majesties Forces make divers Atchievements France takes Allarme and provides for such inconveniencies The Spaniards publish a manifesto against the government of the King of France his Ministers but get nothing thereby A bloâdy Battaile is fought upon the fields of Castane neer Pamperduto between the French and Spaniards The French after a while retire from the places they had tane neer Pamperdueto Divers discourses upon the Duke of Savoys actions Zaverna yeelded to the French The Prince of Conde retires from Dole Magdeburg is yeelded to the Duke of Saxony who doth divers other things The Emperour comes to Ratisbon where the Dyet begins The Spaniards go out of Navar against France They incamp themselves before Bayone The Spaniards thinke upon the taking of Piacenza and to that effect marcht towards it The Duke of Parma makes protestation in France that without aid he can no longer hold out against the Spaniards The King of Hungary is chosen King of the Romans in Ratisbon and what the Austrians joy was WHilest affaires went thus in Germany great preparation for Warre was made in Flanders and all Europe stood as a spectatrix inquisitive what the event of so great provisions made on all sides would bee The Spaniards having sent the Duke of Alcala to the State of Milan to assist in the government of that Dukedome Leganes not being able to be both in Milan and in the field at once made it knowne that the French increasing every day more and more in Montferrat gave out they would by force of Armes march into the State of Parma Whereat they being much troubled for that enterprise being accompanied with the diversion which they might have on the Piacenzan side would very much molest them generall consultations being had in Pavia between the Duke D'Alcala Leganes Mello and
good Masters so he seconded by his warlike genious learnt in this famous Schoole that exquisitnesse which is required in a perfect Captaine Going afterwards from Holland hee visited all the chiefe States of Europe and through a generall knowledge which he acquired he knew so worthily and so judiciously to behave himselfe as that his subjects reverenced him out of duty loved him out of affection and out of gratitude adored him the Souldier out of wonder admired him and tooke glory to obey him and happy was the man who by any action could out-strip another that so he might obtaine thankes from him or but one gracious word The gravity of his Condition mixt with his affability to inferours won the praise of all Tongues hee lived like a Prince did like a Souldier and treated like a Companion he past away his leasure houres in exercising his Armes in the perusall of good bookes and in drawing and designing hee had wont to say a Prince had no greater Enemy then rest that when the body was at quiet the mind was most unquiet and that the labour of the body did quiet the intellect hee affected not pompe he was not subject to ambition hee used no subtleties hee held that gravity in a Souldier was a vizard or maske which made men mistake how hee was affected for to him that makes honour his chiefe and the greatest incitement he can have and the greatest reward he can receive is honour He said That such men were like disguised mulitiers who being set upon a couragious Horse and thinking it to be their accustomed Mule they through indiscretion runne head-long upon the rocks of hatred and desperation Fishes by the Hooke and Birds in a Net are taken with such baits as are proper for their nutriture not with meat contrary to their nature He put no greater a valuation upon lascivious men nor accounted them no better then women He said He could not thinke they had any heart who taking it off from glory had basely imprisoned it in the sickly thoughts of fading pleasure Anger lasted no longer in him then did the fire last which first kindled it as he was apt to take up anger so was he apt to lay it downe even like a fire of straw He mightily blamed those who reserving a private hatred in their breast did revenge themselves by their Princes hand and detested their actions who armed with their Princes Authoritie made use thereof to compasse their owne odde ends He affirmed It was a signe of basenesse to resent any thing done by an inferiour or one of lesse power That not to consider ones private passions when the publique interest was in question was the effect of a generous mind In briefe he was very punctuall in care of preserving his good name which imploying all his indeavours thereunto he obtained and he was constant in his desire to be thought constant to his friend or wherein his freind was concern'd as not regarding even reason of State when his promise was once past he would rather be thought indiscreet then false of his word Nay he would maintain that reason to be false which will have a Prince to be like a clock which stands still or goes about onely as driven by the counterpoise of his owne interest alledging that those Princes who so easily tack about distrusting all men though they become not a prey to their Enemy they rest at last inslaved to their owne minds for their feare of repenting is sure to make them repent To conclude if the Landsgrave who was knowne to be one of the worthiest Princes of all Germany had knowne how to hide at least to dissemble his perfect hatred against Romanists no doubt but his very Enemies would have commended him and have confest him to have beene a Prince that deserved all honour and a better condition But both by his tongue and his deeds he exprest himselfe too bitterly against them upon all proffered occasions and otherwise then became the qualities he was indowed withall which did much lessen his renowne Amongst many things he said He had wont to insist much upon one though upon false grounds to wit that it might be permitted to some of regular orders of Fryers to keepe Academies and Schooles of seculiar Sciences alledging for his reason that every religious order being like a Re-publique which alwayes aimes at its owne preservation and interest of greatnesse by seasoning their Pupills during their younger yeares in the rules of their severall orders they make them onely fit for a Pulpit or Quire and so deprive their Prince of many a Subject who if imploy'd in the Warres or State-Affaires might have proved very beneficiall to their King and to their Kingdome The Duke of Savoy who was come to Vercelles upon the newes of the Spaniards being upon those Territories was there suddenly seized upon by an indisposition of health which suddenly bereft him of his life on the 7th of October to the great griefe of his Duchesse and of all his Subjects for having left behind him onely two Sonnes and one Daughter all of them very young and incapble of government they knew that by this death no small troubles would arise throughout Piemont He was of an aspect not unpleasing of a reasonable stature and curteous in his behaviour as are all the Princes of that Family He governed himselfe very wisely he by his wisedome compast all his actions and by dexteritie knew so well how to cover his weaknesse as he was esteemed of and held by many for a much knowing man If on the Mothers side he had partaken some of her Fathers Character and had shared of his owne Fathers conditions he might have been truely tearmed Son of that great Charles whose worth and vertue no tongues are able sufficiently to celebrate and Heire not onely to his Principalitie but Intellect also if Fortune which smiles not alike upon all had suffered him to governe in another conjuncture of time He seemed to be more inclined to Peace and quietly to increase his State then addicted to the novelties of Warre He governed himselfe with much Policy in all his Affaires making it appeare he trusted more to his wisedome then to his daring He lived a friend to glory indeavouring greatnesse and and coveting esteeme He therefore invented the title of Regall Altezza He made new pretences not formerly found out by his Predecessours And thinking better of himselfe then his Forces would make good he seemed more by the prerogative of his birth then by the increase of his Dominions to pretend to a greater esteeme then his Predecessors had He was a good Prince for his Subjects but not for his friends his principall scope being his owne proper interst and having no other particular affection He dyed when he was 51 yeares old a bitter death since by nature he might have lived many yeares longer but very well to be borne withall and no wayes to be wondred at by one whose
imprisoneth divers confederates of the said Princes By meanes of these forces the people of Piemont are much confused many jealousies arise betweene the Spanish Ministers of State and those of the Emperour but they are covertly husât up The King of France makes exceeding great preparations towards Artoise beseidgeth Theonuille Hesden and Salsa in Spaine and Salins in Burgondy Marcini with the Caesarians opposeth Bannier but is routed The Spaniards march to before Turin and and luckly take it by storme The French retake Chinas their other proceedings in Italy Duke Longeville comes into Piemont to assist the Cardinall De Vallette Picolomeni succors Theonuille and routes the French taking Monseiur de Fischieres prisoner Hesden Salsa and Salins yeild unto the King of France Duke Weymar dyeth at Newrenberg upon the Rhâne Turin is surprised through intelligence by Prince Thomas The Frenchmen from the Cittadell offend the City very much great mortallity ensues on both sides A truce is concluded for fourescore dayes THE Cardinall of Savoy parting from Rome upon the hopes and great promises made unto him by the Spaniards returnes to the Frontiers of Piemont thinking that being now neerer to the succession the subjects would the easiler be brought to desire him to be neere them so to shun in case the young Duke should dye those dangerous occurrences which use to happen through such confusions particularly the state being betweene the forces of two great Potentates upon these informations Leganes who at this very time was confirmed in the government of Millan Don Francisco di Melo who as it was thought should have the charge thereof committed unto him being destined to be Vice-roy of Cicely Thinking it now time to try occasions and to make experience of the offers that those made who depended upon the Cardiâall went with his forces towards the parts of Allessandria and being come together with Melo Spinola the Lord high Chancellor Aragon and Vasques into Icqui not farr from Alessanâria many councells were there held with the Cardinall of Savoy the result whereof was that his highnesse making use of the Spanish forces should indeavour to enter into some part of Piemont wherby he might the easiler afterwards advance further And because Asti was nearest them and not hard to be taken by reason of the good intelligence which they held therein they applyed themselves thereunto The Army being therefore removed from where it was on the Sixteenth of November and assigned over unto the Cardinall great was the expectation which was had thereof But the Embassadour of Savoy who was resident at Rome gessing by the Cardinales hasty departure that he had some secret designe upon Piemont gave speedy advertisment thereof unto the Dutchesse And the French being no lesse vigilent so great was the suspition caused thereby in the Dutchesse and her faithfull servants as not knowing whom to trust nor what to promise unto herselfe under pretence of mustering the Militia of Turin she brought in thither 1000. French-foote and securing thereby the Citty and her owne person she began to provide against the secret and treacherous machinations of her officers And because the Spanish forces which were brought to the territories of Allessandria though their outward appearance was to winter in those parts made those Frontiers feare they had some other end by order from the Cardinall de Vallette the Duke de Candalle made many companyes of French advance to those confines and having an eye to the proceedings of the Dutchesse of Mantoa's officers he dismist the Marquis Vallis and Count Gabionetto who was president of that Magestracy from Cassalle and made it be knowne by publique Proclamation that under paine of incurring his Kings indignation none should dare to hould any practice or intelligences with the Marquis Alfonso Guerriere Governour of the Port of Mantoa it being thought that by his meanes all the affaires of such like intelligence was continued The guarrison of Asty was strengthened and all things provided for that might prove harmefull they likewise sent back for some men who were already on their way to assist Weymar before Brisack And the Dutchesse beleiving more and more that she was betrayed imprisoned many of her subjects in Turin amongst which Colonell Renso the Secretary Clareois the Cardinalls favorit Don Silvio the Governour of Carmagneola Valerio Rossio and every other body of whom there was the least shaddow of suspition that they should be adheerers unto or depend upon her Brother in Law She moreover brought into the Cittadell a brigade of French called the Dutchesse Regiment and suspecting the Governours loyalty she suddainly removed him from thence and in his stead gave the custody of the Cittadell to the Marquis of St. Iermane whereupon the Cardinall finding his plot discovered seeming as if he had no such intention went to Nizza della Paglia and within a few dayes after came from thence to Certosa di Pavia that he might speake with Melo with whom after many consultations it was agreed upon that Prince Thomas should in all hast be sent from Flanders because he being trained up in Warre well liked of by the people of Piemont vallued and feared by the Nobility and being well reputed of in Warre might peradventure doe more by his owne experience and assist more by his credit then the Cardinall For those who thought not the Cardinall able to defend them with the sword would peradventure have liked well enough of Prince Thomas who was thought capable of taking upon him the weight of a Principality and to governe it by Armes By reason of Ghets his aforesaid defeate the Austrean affaires were not onely frown'd on by fortune in Alsatia but which imported more they ran to ruin by reason of the contention emulation of the cheefe Commanders for such as were enemyes to Ghets and rejoyced at his restraint laid all the blame of what had happened amisse upon him and his friends and such as would patiently give eare to sound reasons were grieved at and complained upon the actions of his evill wishers yet did they this but covertly and under hand since there are but few that will publiquely take upon them the defence of such faults as have no other protector but God and truth So as the actions of Ghets being publiquely declaimed against by some and other some privatly insinuating into the mindes of many their evill opinions of his accusers the more his enemies did outwardly expresse the rancor against him the more did they inwardly burne with anger that did defend him whereupon the desire of doing well and gallantly being supprest their own strength decreased and the enemies power increased the time was wholly spent in councells in hopes and in laying of badly sustained foundations for Brisack languishing every day more then other was now brought to her last will and Testament Duke Savell notwithstanding upon these great emergencyes seemed though with small hopes of any good effects willing to extrinsicate his desire in a business
any difficulty took Penemondt and Divenan in the utmost Northerne parts of the said Vsedon for they were quickly surrendered by the Imperialists who withdrew themselves to Cammin upon another Channell towards the East whither many of those people retired in safety The King found himselfe feared and his souldiers Couragious who impatient of delay with cheerefull voice said they must advance even to the Walls of Rome this confidence begotten in the souldiers was much advantagious to the King for they fought with the resolution of still over-comming he brought his Forces under Cammin and caused his Horse to make excursions over all the neighbouring Villages spoyling the Countrey this he did to the end that those Countrey people who had withdrawne themselves to strong Holds perceiving their Farmes to be wasted might finde that by fearing to lose they lost indeed his Approaches and Batteries being made he so plyed the Walls with his Cannon and Mathooks as at the end of eight dayes he was got close underneath the Wall and was ready to assault the breach which he had made and was large enough and fit to be set upon and though the Imperialists mought bravely have made good and maintained the Towne for some time yet things unexpected and bold proceedings causing usually confusion the Defendants not hearing of any succour in readinesse for those parts surrenderer the City unto the King and 1500 Foot and 400 Horse with their Armes Baggadge and two Piece of Cannon marched out This unexpected Swedish Invasion into the States belonging to the Emperour gave Allarme to all the neighbouring Countrey and newes being sent thereof to Caesars Court his Councell was aware of their error in having seconded them by whose advise those Forces which had upheld the Imperiall greatnesse were disbanded and whereby this ruine in Germany was caused and that therefore it was requisite to provide for the preservation of those Provinces and strong holds which not being well defended by the Imperialists if they should fall into the power of the Swedes would much prejudice the reputation of Caesars Forces that the courage and Forces of the Enemies were grown greater and that they had caused some important novelty amongst the Protestants and other discontented people who seeing a help at hand and a safe place whereunto to have refuge would boldly make known their evill intentions though more then ever covered up under the ashes of weakenesse Posts were speedily sent to Torquato Conti an Italian who as then commanded the Imperiall Forces in Pomerania that he should use diligence in mustering together the people of those Provinces whereby he might oppose the Swedes further advancement and stop the course of their proceedings till such time as a powerfull succour might be raised which should chase them backe into Swethland Directions were likewise sent to Count Tilly who was then in Bavaria and in the Palatinate with the Forces of the Catholique League that mustering the people of the neighbouring parts he should draw neare Misina a chiefe Province of Germany in the Center whereof stands Bohemiah placed between the Rivers of Sal and Elve bordering on the North side upon the upper Saxony and watered by Mulda a River which taking its rise from those Mountaines which inviron Bohemia runs in pleasant streames into the Elve neare to Desseau and other two uncontemptible Rivers namely Plais and Elsteâ that hee should there have an eye to the proceedings of the Swedes and be assisting to the Imperiall Commanders as occasion should require as that also he should keep the Electors of Saxony and Brandenburg within the bounds of their duty who little apayed with the Actions of the Imperiall Officers and ãâ¦ã Austrian greatnesse would peradventure at that time have altered their correspondency and friendship with the Emperour wherewithall having formerly fomented the Austrian proceedings they had raised the Imperiall Authority to such an height that repenting afterwards when there was no remedy they were aware of what prejudice Princes do unto themselves when they foment the most powerfull To this purpose likewise Letters were sent unto them exhorting them to re-confirme their good intelligence and to adhere unto the Emperours Forces thereby to drive out of the Empire the disturbers thereof The like negotiation full of prevalent exhortations and enriched with quaint conceptions was held with the Duke of Pomerania who was more then any other suspected to hold correspondency with the King For this Prince being on all sides opprest by the Imperiall Garrisons did not only desire to regaine his former authority but could not light upon a fitter occasion then this to revenge himselfe of the Caesarian Officers and indeed being become a Protestant he did abâorre the name of Romane Catholique The Emperour likewise writ to the King of Swethland complaining of the Invasion he had made into the Imperiall territories whereunto he had not any the least right or claime that he expected not he should under faigned pretences have medled with the affaires of Germany whereof the Emperor was the supreme Lord that therefore he did friendly exhort him to desist from that enterprise and not to irritate those Arms which not long since had won gainfull and glorious victories over the perturbers of the common tranquility This Letter being brought to the King and the bringer thereof which was a Bohemian Gentleman received with all civility it was opened The King seemed to be well pleased at the contents thereof said unto the Gentleman That he very much thanked his Master for that he had vouchsafed to write unto him that he would consider upon the contents and that when his arme was well which he yet wore in a Scarfe by reason of a scratch given him therein by an Eagle in Slavonia alluding therby to the assistance granted by the Emperor to the K. of Polonia he would send him an answer And without any more adoe knowing that the Emperours intentions was to entertaine him with Treaties till such time as he had got Forces able to contest with him he marched on and set upon Stettin a City well fortified with Wals Towers and Ditches the Metropolitan of Pomerania seated in the midst therof watred by the Oder the first onset with lowd mouthed cannon was so furious as that Col. Demitz who coÌmanded in chief in the town though he knew that with those people he had in the Town he was able for some while to defend it yet perceiving the falshood of the people and Citizens who were almost all of them Protestants and such as were ill affected to the Caesarians and desired nothing more then a hand to pull the yoake from off their necke and finding there was no remedy for it resolved since he found Enemies aswell within as without to go in his owne person and speake with the King and perswaded him to take some other resolution but all he could say was but so much ãâ¦ã in vaine for the King ãâ¦ã of Pomerania who being in the City
oppressed by the Imperiall Forces came forth and was received with extraordinary demonstrations of good will many particulars were discoursed on between him and the King Who said his passing over the Sea was with intention not to take from other men what was theirs but to put every man into his owne possession that the scope and drift of his Forces was to ease the oppressed to lessen the immoderate greatnesse of the House of Austria and to restore Germany to its felicity which formerly it had enjoyed in freedome and peace not subject to the Austrian Government He invited him to renue the correspondency which had been held between the Crowne of Swethland and Dukes of Pomerania and to imploy in the continuation of this warre such Moneys and Forces as he knew that King deserved who had not spared his owne Crown his owne Subjects nor yet his owne life for the common liberty These speeches from a Prince who parlyed with his Sword in his hand sound easie accesse to the heart of one who having the like desires coveted nothing more then such an overture He therefore under writ their ancient alliances he undertooke to pay Eight Thousand Souldiers for the common Designe obliged himselfe to yeeld up Stettin and moreover to pay unto him a Hundred Thousand Dollars which was presentely done Demitz was forced to go forth of the Towne with the Imperiall Garrison cursing the Duke and laying Fellony and Treason to his Charge which was after made good by the Caesarian Decrees wherby also all Commanders under the Emperour were inhibited upon any whatsoever occasion to give quarter to the Inhabitants of Pomerania for that they were Rebells and guilty of High-Treason The King being entred Stettin with the great applause of the People and Citizens by whom he was received with all demonstration of expressible affection that might be having viewed the Fortifications and left fitting order for the preservation of the Towne which he made very much account of for that it was in the midst of those Provinces against which he was to fight he presently sent part of his Army before Stangart a Towne girt about with Walls and Bastions after the ancient manner placed upon the shoare of Ina a River which taking its head from under the Wood Mariewaldt having made a course of about twenty Leagues runs into Oder neare Stettin this Towne was defended by about eight hundred Souldiers part men of the Country part Imperialists who at the first appearing of the Swedish Forces not thinking themselves able to defend the Towne retired themselves into the Castle whether being followed they yeilded themselves the Garrison marching forth with their Armes and Baggage went to Garis a Towne upon the Oder The losse of Stettin upon which many and great consequences did depend caused such fear and confusion in the Inhabitants of the neighbouring Provinces who fearing every houre to heare newes of the Swedish incursions and being at this time setled in a good condition began some of them to run away others to waver in their resolutions and many to consult touching their agreeing with the King whereupon the Imperialists much apprehending that this was occasioned by the peoples evill disposition and the hatred they bore aswell to the Austrian Government as to the Roman Catholique faith they resolved to try whether they were reduceable to their duties or no by force of Armes they therefore ran over those Countries and sacking every where as they went seizing on all things they could lay their hands on not forbearing any thing which might afflict those people or make them despaire Many are of opinion that they did this rather for that they knew they could not subsist and that therefore they would first ruine all to prevent their Enemies then for the other reason alleadged in their excuse they likewise surprized Wolghast taken but a little before by the Swedes and with all possible diligence fortified themselves within the Castle hoping by the preservation thereof to bridle the Kings proceedings against the other Forts of Mechelburg and Pomerania Tilly had order from Vienna and expresse Commission from the Emperour of Bavaria to joyne himselfe with Torquato Counti his Forces The King foreseeing by this that if the Army of the League were joyned with the Imperialists and should come upon him before he had made himselfe strong and more secure in Pomeranio they might easily overthrow his designes for that the Elector of Saxony Brandeburg and other States upon whose declaring of themselves a well grounded advantage lay seeing that the Swedish Forces were farre off and the Imperialists neere at hand would be well advised before they put on resolutions which taken upon weake ground might promise them little advantage and much ruine he therefore thought it best by some meanes or other to keepe Tilly aloofe from him and seeing no better way to effect this he agreed with the Administrator of Magdeburg who was then at Strayhand that he should returne into his City This City is well inward in the State of the Elector of Saxony and Brandeburg of a wonderfull strong scituation upon the River of Elbe Elbe takes its head from the Mountaines of Resingbrig or Gyant Mountaines between the confines of Bohemiah and Slecia and usefully watering diverse Provinces and Principalities after a very long course wherein she takes in into her self divers other Rivers becomming Navigable for great Barkes she disgorges her selfe into the North Sea This City was very well furnished with all manner of provisions for defence very populous and extreamely ill affected to the Romish Catholiques and if the King could get thither he should not only easily draw the Electors and other Protestant Princes to side with him who forbeare the doing thereof only out of feare of the Caesarians but would have brought his Forces to their desired end he charged the Administrator that he should declare to the chiefe Magistrates thereof that his Forces aymed at the preservation of the common liberty and of that Religion which being supprest by the Roman Catholiques they must or lose their lives and goods or betray their consciences this was forthwith with much efficacy performed by the Administrator a man of great authority and a declared ill-willer of the Roman Catholiques and finding no repugnancy in the people desirous of novelty and resolute in the maintenance of ãâ¦ã the Councell and the whole people to declare themselves well wishers to King Gustavus and to inhibit all helpe and assistance to the Romanists and the more to secure this their declaration they betooke themselves to encrease their Fortifications upon the Wals to make ready people and other sufficient preparations for the preservation of their resolutions The King then weighing how he might encrease his numbers if he should take in certain Towns kept by the Romanists in those parts before the Imperialists should come unto their succour went from Stettin and at the same time sent part of his Army under the Command
of Gustavus Horne to take in Dam a place not far from Stettin standing upon a little River called Plana which being manned by five hundred Austrians and wanting moderne Fortifications compounded upon the first sight of the Swedish Cannon and went himselfe in person with the rest before Newgarten a little Towne walled about upon the side of a little Lake derived from the River Hamerbeck and wherein were about foure hundred Souldiers in Garrison he in two dayes made himselfe Master of it then running over that slip of land which lies betweene the aforesaid River of Hamerbeck and the River Meltanne he tooke Criffenburg a Towne watered by Rega and Triptoe seated on the utmost parts of Pomerania towards the sea upon the banks of Meltanne which without any contestation yeilded on the other side Gustavus Horne repassing over the Oder quickly tooke in Costin Freinwalt Anchan and Ockermand all of them walled Townes of Pomerania beyond the Oder towards the West and all of them guarded by Imperiall Garrisons which being only fortified by ancient Rampiers and high Towers suddenly compounded and the greatest part of those Souldiers who amazed at the prosperous successe of the Swedes knew not whether to flye for safety enrolled themselves under the Swedish Colours passing from hence he likewise won Passevalke Barth and Grimmen places which though of small defence yet for the Imperialists to retreat unto Then considering that if the prop of Griffenhaghen should be taken from the Imperialists the rest of the Townes which were held in those parts by the Romanists would be much weakned he came before Honigsberg a Town walled about after the ancient manner and guarded by five hundred Souldiers seated in the furthermost part of Pomerania upon the Confines of Maria nova he took it in three dayes There came in moreover to his obedience Lippin by the side of a little Lake from whence the River Mizaell takes its rise Arsnsnalde a Towne upon the shore of Ina Bernsheine a Towne upon the same River and Bârwalde which lyes betweene Mizell and Ronigsberg all of them weakely walled about after the ancient manner and of small resistance The fame of the Swedes proceedings being this meane while spread abroad in France and England whereat these two Crownes did much rejoyce The King of Great Brittaine whom the restitution of the Palatinate much concerned solicited the promised Levy which being begun by foure thousand Foot destined for the King of Swethlands service and furnishing him with good summes of Money he tyed himselfe in streighter bonds or friendship with him the French likewise who for the interest of State coveted this diversion by the which they might the more easily succour Montferrat and which was the proper way to moderate the Spaniards greatnesse which growing more powerfull did more and more covet the Universall Monarchie and filled all the Potentates of Europe with Jealousie sent Mounsieur de Carnace Embassadour to the King of Swethland as well to congratulate his happy entry as to make good what he had promised him before his marching which Embassadour was by the King received with great alacrity and after some short negotiations a League was concluded betweene these two Crownes the 22. day of January in the yeare 1631. in the Campe at Barwalde the grounds whereof were That the Princes who were oppressed by the Austrian Faction should be restored to their former States Townes and liberty and that for the maintenance of this War his most Christian Majestie would pay every yeare foure hundred thousand Dollars This agreement being of no small support to the Swedish affaires as well for the reall assistance as for the reputation got by the friendship of so puissant a King to the which many German Princes as also Forreners ought to have had respect before they should have undertaken to have assisted the Imperialists was magnificently solemnized with the greatest demonstrations of joy and jubile which by the Swedes could be exprest great Bonfires were made aswell in the Campe as in the Cities and Forts which they had won The Cannon was heard to go off incessantly for three nights together feasts and banquets were celebrated with all expression of joy the generall satisfaction caused by this new amity was every where easily to be discerned The King having likewise at the same time received three hundred thousand Dollars from the King of England and having notice how the people that were raised for his service to the number of two thousand Foot were under saile in the Haven of Dover under the conduct of the Marquesse Hamilton to go for Pomerania and finding his Army much inforced by many Leavies made by his Commanders in the neighbouring Provinces from which many of the Enemies Souldiers fled away he saw he was not now to refuse his good fortune but to march forward with his Forces to new Conquests his Army then being Mustered at Stettin in the presence of the French Embassadour was found to consist of about twenty thousand gallant Souldiers all well Disciplin'd and though the Imperiall Forces in Gratz Greffinhaghen did much oppresse Pomerania insomuch as he was desired by the Inhabitants to ease them of that burthen yet not approving to turne into those parts he held it better to passe with his Army into the Dutchy of Mechelburg and to get footing also in those parts aswell that he might draw neare the Landgrave of Hessen who having declared himselfe for the Swedish Party and made offer of his life and fortune unto the King gave pay unto eight thousand Souldiers as likewise that he might hold intelligence with Lubeck Hamburg and other Haunce towns which having driven the Imperialists from them he might much advantage himselfe by them for they were stored with people and with Money and ãâã many Protestant Princes had withdrawne themselves thither for shelter from the fury of the Imperialists who had then seized upon their Provinces where together with those helpes he should receive no little advantage by the rising of those Inhabitants who for the publique liberty would not refuse to spend such wealth as they should bring with them which they could not better lay out then for the recovery of their Countrey and the maintenance of the publique quiet Hereunto was added that the Dutchy of Mechelburg coasting upon Pomerania and the Marquessat of Brandenburg the latter was thereby the more secure and the Elector taking pretence from the Armies at hand of the King his Brother in Law thereby to free himselfe from Caesars obedience he sound it would be no hard matter to get him to declare himselfe the King was moreover hereunto moved by the alliance of the Dukes his Nephews of that name for being dispossest by the Imperialists and their States conferred upon Walesteine a private Subject it was a thing that could not be suffered either by the King or by the Princes nor by the Haunce Townes He therefore imbarqued his Army at Stettin the sixth of September
Chapter of Cannons who governing as so many Senators and the Bishop as Prince they have the semblance of a Republique Whilest victory and the sweets thereof was pursued by the Swedes Tilly being advertised that the King had left but few men in Saxony in the Bishopricke of Magdeburg and in Halverstat the Metropolis of that sea seated between the Wesser and the Elb and thinking therefore that he might there make some diversion whereby to with-draw the King from what he had possest himselfe of in Franconia marched thitherwards but understanding as he was upon his march how that the Swedes having taken the Citie did batter the Castle and being much troubled at the losse thereof it being a place which the Imperialists had built upon as a place of refuge in case of retreate as also that there was therin a magazine erected for all things which belonged to the maintaining of arms he changed his mind and resolved to succor the Castle of Wurtzburg by the safety whereof he imagined he might easily assist the Electors of Mentz and Triers but not comeing time enough to relieve it nor knowing any meanes whereby to divert the Swedes from their resolves he resolved to fortifie the neighbouring Townes to munite the most important places of passage and thus to oppose the enemies further advancements hee therefore put garrisons in Mentz Ascheburg Dieburg Steinam Heidlberg Worms and Haânaw all of them principall Cities upon the Rheine and Mayne beguirt with walls partly ancient partly with new rampiers and having taken fitting order for the safety of those he in October passed with his Army over the Mayne to Silinghestat between Franckford and Ascheburg and haulted in Berghestrazza a Country placed between the Rheine and the Mayne towards the lower Palatinat that hee might have an eye to the Swedes designes and oppose them to some purpose Hee likewise left some foot Companies together with an hundred horse at Bombenâawsem neer Franckfort which had then but a slender Garrison being of opinion that since it was not weakly walled any small Garrison would suffice for a while to entertaine the Swedes and to stop them in that prosperous course which hitherto they had formerly had The Swedes this meane while indeavoured the winning of Franconia and Tilly like a wise Pilot who having his Masts spent by Tempest mindes the rigging and trimming up of his weather-beaten ship imployed his care and diligence in reparing the losses he had received and in fitting himselfe for a new encounter with the Swedes Whilest Ghetz and Tiffiinbeck two of the Imperialists Commanders kept with their forces which were about 8000 men in Slecia and Lusatia principall Provinces in Germany Slecia lies in the utmost parts of Germany towards the East upon the Confines of Polonia being backt on the South by Moravia and on the North by Marca nova And though in former times it had a King of its owne and was of great terror to the Dutch yet now it is comprehended in the Crowne of Bohemia it abounds with all forts of graine and Cattle and is full of Inhabitants it conteines within it many Dukedomes Lordships Principalities and Earledomes and the noble Oder runs through the midst of it Lusatia lyes between the Elb and Oder and the Confines of Bohemia under the Crown whereof it is likewise comprehended it is watered by the River Spree and Niese which makes it very pleasant and lovely The Duke of Sax. being joyned with the Swedes and his forces at this time not neer these parts Ghetz advanced with his men towards Guben upon the Neise guarded but by a few Saxons hee set upon it and took it so did he likewise Dam Ghuisson and Spemberg all of them places of no great consideration Tiffenbecke that he might not appeare lesse diligent entred the higher Lusatia compelled Bousen a strong City upon the bankes of Spree and Gorsitz and watered by Neise to give large contribution and quarter to the Imperialists But peace being much desired in the Court of Vienna with the Duke of Sax. one of the greatest Princes of the Empire whose union was the ground work of the King of Swedes Forces and the Emperours Councell considering that the Imperiall Forces being entred to the prejudice of the Duke into these Provinces which had been formerly conferr'd upon him for the expences he had beene at and the service he had cone the Caesarian Majestie in his warres against the Prince Palatine and the King of Denmarke it was not a meanes to reduce him to the Emperors devotion the aforesaid Commanders were willed a little to temporise and to withdraw their Forces from the places they had taken A little after this about the midst of November Colonell Paradisi was dispach't away to Dresden the Electors place of residence with propositions of peace and with very advantagious offers to the Duke thereby to make him listen to an accommodation but all they could doe to this purpose was lost labour for the obligations of this Prince to the King of Swede being so recent he could nor without an imputation to his fidelity nor durst he for feare of those Forces wherewithall he was round about beguirt make any agreement without the Kings consent These Treaties therefore proceeded no further nay the Duke was counselled by the King to send his Forces against Bohemia that so by that Invasion the Swedes proceedings might be the more facilitated on the other side of the Empire and Harnem was commanded to march with his Army against that Kingdome and to give a beginning to their intended purpose of bringing their Army into Bohemia and of wintring there and driving the Emperours Forces beyond the Danabe he forthwith obeyed this order and in November sent the Count de Torre and Offchirchem both of them Bohemians to Siluchenaw a place upon the Confines of Bohemia betwixt the Elb and Neise This caused such âeare in the People of those Provinces as terrified more by the âame than by the Sword of the Enemy they betooke themselves to their heeles and retired to Bedrais Tabor and other strong Townes upon the Confines of Bohemia towards Moravia and the upper Palatinate and on other parts into Austria so as the Saxons found little resistance in Luitmeriz Ausig and Praga which were totally abandoned by the Imperialists at the very heare-say of the Protestants advancing these places were therefore left unto the Protestants by whom they were much lesse rigorously treated then the Roman Catholiques feared nay the Saxons were not a little scandalized at many Monasticke Fryers who professing that they would dye for their Religion were notwithstanding the first that forsooke their Churches their Parishes and their care of soules Egra in like manner upon the Frontiers of the Palatinate in the Confines of Bohemia seated upon the River Rossell a place of no meane consideration by reason of the passe whereon it was seated without any resistance threw open the gates unto the Conquerour and
the water out of them made them so fit as that at sundry times they passed 2000 of the Foot over the River and the King by these securing the landing on that side for by the meanes of great trees linckt and fastened together a moderne invention they made Trenches and Palisadoes past over a good part of his Army hee unexpectedly came before Oppenheime not farre from the Rhene fortified with wals and Towers after the ancient manner seated upon the backe of a little hill the Garrison whereof having the Rhene for their Trenches which they thought he could not so easily passe over feared no harme the Towne was hotly set upon for the Souldiers invited by the hopes of booty whereof great store was said to be there thronged in crouds into the Ditch and the Breaches which were there made defying death and not regarding the dead bodyes which in no small numbers lay in their way The Defendants making no shew of feare plaid the parts of valiant Souldiers hoping for reliefe from Mentz but much more incouraged by the promises of the Governour a Spaniard who was a well advised man and much experienced in warre and who neither believed that the King was so strong in men nor that hee should faile of being relieved But the assailants which in two dayes storm'd the Towne and entring it by force kill'd all that they met withall at the first in a defensive posture and sack't the City which was well-nigh halfe burnt to the ground by a fire which therein happened casually that very day by the meanes of a drunken Dutch-woman There being in Oppenhaime but few Barkes and Materials sufficient to build a stately Bridge the King hasted to build the Bridge over which having passed the rest of his Foot his Horse and his Cannon hee marched with his Army too before Mentz where the Defendants being provided of all things requisite for their preservation and defence and having done what they could to defend themselves within bare old Wals and weake Trenches being out of hope to make good the Towne against the Swedes who with Military discipline drew neerer and neerer thereunto desired a cessation of Armes which being granted by the courteous King and they knowing that the enemies Army consisted of about 26000 Souldiers and above 20 piece of Cannon they thought themselves not sufficient without a greater addition of Forces to defend it they therefore treated and had such conditions granted them as became a gracious Conquerour They marched out in December with their Arms Bag and Baggage to the number of above 2000 part of which tooke pay of the King who holding it for an advantagious precept to proceed kindly with his enemies did thereby reap so much good as that many invited more by his kindnesse then by feare of his strength yielded to that to which they would not so soone have been brought by severity in the which he much glorifying himselfe had wont to say that lenity in treating was the best Centinell that Princes could have that people wish well to them they love and death to them they feare The end of the second Book DOCTRINA PARIT VIRTUTEM The Warres and other State-Affaires of the best part of Christendome THE III. BOOK The Contents of the Third Booke In the Third Booke is contained the Swedes continued proceedings in the Circuite of Rhene and in Franconia the dangers the King ran in his owne person His remarkable sayings The taking of Dunavert The Swedes entrance into Bavaria The Councels held and reasons alleadged by those of the Kings side before they besiedged Lech The service that happened at Lech The death of Tilly A digression upon the life of this Commander The Conditions required by Walesteine before hee would accept the place of Generall The Bavarians entrance into Ratisbone What effects Walesteine being made Generall wrought The Iealousies between Caesar and Bavaria quieted The renewing of their good Correspondency Walesteines comming into the Field His prosperous proceedings His actions and his extravagant way of government The recovery of the Townes in Bohemia Duke Bernard Waymer his proceedings in Swabenland The entrance of the French into Lorayne The Embasy of those of Nurenberg Walesteines designe against Nurenberg The encamping of both the Armies about that City and the actions that insued between the Swedes and the Imperialists before it THe Austrians exalted designes being by the losse of Mentz overthrowne and the high hopes of the Ecclesiasticall Princes dispersed by that blow The Kings universall proceedings did so blunt the Spaniards boldnesse who were quartered thereabouts as that their Councels being confused their Forces dismembred and the vigour of the Catholique League crusht that Circuite of ground which being possest of an appearing power seemed to threaten the enemy incumbred on a sudden with feare and astonishment did incourage the Protestants to new atchievements so as the opportune Situation of this City being one of the chiefest of all those Provinces upon the bankes of Rhene and over against the Mayne opened the way to the getting of Bacharach and other adjoyning places which at the first sight of the Swedes forerunners yielded themselves Wisbaben Hofen Koningstein all of them belonging to the Elector of Mentz were likewise brought under the Kings obedience Duke Bernard of Waymar a Prince of the bloud of Saxony and descended from that Frederick whom the Emperour Charles the first bereaved of his estate had not many moneths before raised 4000 men at his owne expence and was entertained by the King and honoured with the title of Master Generall of the Field whose valour was exceedingly seconded by fortune This man in the beginning of Ianuary did by way of stratagem send 500 Horse by night too before the gates of Wahnheime a Fort standing upon the Angle which is made by Necker where it fals into the Rhyn to the end that seeming to be Imperialists who had been defeated by the Swedes they might endeavour the being received into the Towne These men behaving themselves wisely and by the assistance of some fugitives fled from the Garrison who were acquainted with the customes of the Towne and of the Guard deceiving the Centinell the Officers and even the Governor himselfe with suppositions names likelyhoods and appearing conjectures were admitted into the Towne where scouring the streets opening the gates seising upon the Port and cutting in pieces all they met they let in their Companions who were not farre off and made themselves masters of the Town Thus it befals Governours who believing in others have not as yet known that often times hard and incredible things have unexpected events they not having learnt to sleep with their eyes open In the inundation of victories and the mannaging of Military affaires Politicke considerations and negotiations ought not to be forgotten therefore the King staying some dayes at Mentz to discusse divers businesses of waight thought it not fitting to passe by an exact consideration of the
those to whom in all respects he ought to have humbled himselfe which shewed that by degrees he would pretend to give Lawes to Caesars selfe and all his Councell The Spaniards not well disgesting these things and much offended with this Generall could not free themselves of the distaste wherewith they were totally possest The news of this mans being made Generall did much rejoyce the common-people who incapable of the high mysteries of policy feed themselves with such hopes as sute best with their desires seeming now almost to have lost all fear of sinister events Thus every one out of their opinion of the witty extravagancies of this Commander built Castles in the aire and prognosticated such events as did better become a better genius in particular many Counsellours and Ministers of state look cheerfully hereupon who had received much Gold from Walesteine thinking that he continuing in his Command they should be advanced to greater honours credit and authority And to say truth Walesteine brought businesses to a good passe in that so narrow and threatening a time wherein fortune would peradventure have beene more sparing to others and if as he was wonderfull ingenious and in all his actions exceeding acute and diligent he had been endued with the vertue wherewith now adayes few men are of knowing himselfe and resisting his owne affections by moderating his extravagancies and suppressing his pride he would not onely have wonne the love of his Lord and Master one of the most magnanimous religious and mercifull Princes that ever governed the Empire but would have brought even his competitors and enemies to have partaken of his service Where Force availes not 't is good to have recourse to policy an many times those things are brought to passe by wit which were dispaired of by power Therefore Walesteine being a great Polititian and a wise negotiator knowing that he wanted such Forces as hee could have desired to encounter with an Army already inheartened by so many victories and inrich't with Souldiers whilest all men flocke to those Colours which are favoured by good successe exercised his wit how he might withdraw the Kings confederates from siding with him good correspondency was held betweene him and the Duke of Saxony whil'st he waged warre against the King of Denmarke and the Elector did in effect shew himselfe mindfull of many favours which he had received from him then when he Commanded in Chiefe the Caesarian Forces for at the taking of Prage he kept Walesteines well furnisht Palace and all things belonging unto him from being injured by the Souldiers yet it was rumor'd that he did not this by the way of friendship but out of Policy to the end that by this way of partiall proceeding the Emperour and his Court might have some jealousie of Walesteine as likewise for that Harnem who was trayned up in warre by Walesteine commanded in Chiefe the Dukes Forces keeping in memory the good discourses that had past between them he was hereunto likewise perswaded by the means of a certain letter written by the King somewhat too sharply to the Elector wherin he blamed him of negligence in not advancing whil'st he was victorious in Bohemia into Moravia yea even to the Danube were it only to hinder the new levies of men which were made by the Emperours Officers in those parts Walesteine laid this for his ground rule that if he could remove this one Prince from his union with the King not onely the Hauns Townes but the greatest part of the chiefe men of the Empire would follow his example a businesse of such importance as it would not onely have made plaine the way to his designes of beating backe the King of establishing his owne greatnesse in Germany and of punishing his competitors but finally he would have reduced the Army to his owne secret intent which Army he wisely indeavoured to make depend on him by conferring places and imployments onely upon such as were affectionate to him He bent his whole indeavours to effect this and though he might first have regained Prage yet went he not about it but persevering in the satisfaction he had received from the Elector he by the meanes of Count Adam Tersica propounded a treaty of peace with Harnem whereunto he by many promises invited him But were it either to winne time and afford the King scope enough to effect his desires in Bavaria and Swabenland or that the Duke was not yet in condition to purchase his peace with the Emperour upon so good tearms as hee desired or else for feare of the Swedes he prolonged the negotiation asking such things as were not to be granted him Walesteine thought himselfe now in the Haven and believed the more therein for that he was more and more aware how the Saxons apprehending the Swedes growing to excessive greatnesse did delay the taking of those places which had they been solicitous they might have gotten which shew'd they might easily be brought to disagreement since Princes are not pleased with their neighbours too much greatnesse as likewise that by judiciall Astrology which he studied very much spending every day some time in it and keeping alwayes some famous Astrologers about him he found out some Starre which shewed to be propitious unto him he therefore bent himselfe wholly hereupon and went about to bribe Harnem and other of the Dukes Ministers of state and Officers by rich gifts The Treaty was by all meanes indeavoured to be brought to a conclusion and Walesteine this meane while kept himselfe in Moravia that he might not by the moving of his Forces give jealousie to the Saxons who having as it may be said forgotten warre enjoyed the delights of peace where they were quartered in Bohemia Many were of opinion that the Electour did this to afford Walesteine time to secure the Emperours patrimoniall estate against the Swedes whose proceedings were by this time growne to an high eminency as the Princes of the Empire ought rather to have desired them moderated then foment them yet to a greater height as also not to disturbe the businesse which was fairly proceeded in with Harnem when at the same time the League was openly ratified in Court between the Duke of Bavaria and the house of Austria the Duke having formerly been some-what doubtfull therein This was attributed to the distaste the Duke tooke to see Walesteine re-assumed to the Generalls place contrary to the good rule of government which teacheth no more to trust in him by whom we have once thought our selves offended fearing perhaps lest he likewise might receive some prejudice by the ambition of Walesteine who did not much affect the Dukes person others would mutter that this was occasioned by the promises of the French who would have brought him to conformity with Swethland and at the same time his highnesse's demand of succour was propounded to Walesteine who after having first suffered himselfe to be much intreated thereunto so very vain-glorious was hee to boot
suggestions of the Spanish Ministers of State to keepe quiet within his owne dominions and peacefully to injoy that which hee could not so easily preserve in warre These reasons though very strong and such as the Duke had hee been wise should have followed were neither embraced nor rejected but the greater part of his Councell who were wisely by the Spaniards kept partiall on their side either by pensions hopes or promises thinking it not fit to forgo the friendship and protection of the Austrian party for any pretence or threats of the King of France grounding their hopes upon the event of the secret practice held by the Spaniard by the Duke of Orleans and other Princes of France which was to raise new troubles in France whereby they might inlarge their owne limits said Peace was alwayes good where Warre was harmfull as it was likewise alwayes prejudiciall when by the idlenesse thereof ruine was well-nigh caused that wise men ought to observe the meanes how to secure their dominions which was not to be done by suffering their neighbours to increase in power that Princes were alwayes in suspition either to be treated as vassalls or to lose their estate when they suffered themselves to be brought into the bosome of one greater then themselves That France was no more powerfull then it was daily indeavouring to increase its power that the memory of their pretensions upon Lorayne a faire Jewell for the Crowne was of great efficacy that fit occasions to weaken such Forces as we stand in feare of ought not to be let slip when the permitting of them may cause jealousie that it was better to hazard ones selfe in warre then to be sure to lose all in peace that inferiour Princes thought it a great advantage to have a sanctuary whereunto to fly when they are injured by their superiours that nothing could preserve Lorayne from the ambition of the French but protection from Spaine that it might be said to be lost between the Swedish and the French Forces that reason of State would have Alsatia preserved Burgundie kept flourishing Flanders strengthened and France troubled that the King wanting issue was lesse observed by his subjects that such successours as were most adhered unto by the unstable and wavering multitude had reason to hope well that therefore Orleans ought to be fomented and that it was safer to follow the Austrian party then by fearing the French Forces to grant them that which would be more profitable to deny them Although these reasons prevailed much with the Duke who was sufficiently thereunto inclined and did lively worke upon the affection which he bore the Imperiallists occasioned by the good entertainment he had received from them whilest he was a Voluntier in their Armies against the Count Palatine during the life of his Unckle Duke Anthony yet for that the fiercest spirits are sometimes kept under by the scourge or rod of the more powerfull fearing the inundation of the French upon his State who were already in readinesse and had a good will thereunto he by the advise of his Councell resolved upon a peece of cunning which was to satisfie the King with complements and faire words and with all outward appearance which might make him forbeare his threats and to conceale the ill will he bare him to a fitter occasion And for that the French a Nation of all others of a more nimble spirit boldnesse of minde and unquiet disposition are hardly pleased or contented with the idlenesse of peace but still desiring novelty is oft times prodigall of its wisedome and runs without foundation to graspe at shadowes which to their passion seeme bodies those that had seduced the Queene Mother to absent her selfe from the Court and to put her selfe into the hands of the Spaniard being still distasted with the present condition of affaires and thinking they should be more esteemed of when they were forth of the Kingdome then when in it having likewise wrought upon the Duke of Orleans the Kings only brother to incense him against the Cardinall Richelieu an officer of State to whom the whole government of the Kingdome being committed did faithfully governe it and with so much advantage as France had never before knowne upon pretence that the authority wherewith this man was intrusted belonged better to a Brother then any other subject feeding him with vast hopes kept him still in Lorayne The Spaniards by whose knowledge all this businesse was set on worke considered how much the troubles of France would make for their greatnesse and the profit they might receive by the Civill discords of that Kingdome whose union was their jealousie and was only able to counter-ballance their desired ends and this so much the rather for that by reason of the French Forces falling downe upon the Frontiers of Germany they rationally enough suspected they might have called the Swedes into those parts to frighten the Roman Catholiques and consequently invite them to flye for protection to them whereby fencing themselves from being injured by the Protestants and without unsheathing their sword yea under a religious pretence this was a fitting meanes to possesse themselves of many Forts of great importance But it being foreseene by the wisedome of the Austrian Councell that this was the Center wherein the lines of many circumstances of reflection was to fall for that the getting of the French are such as are much facillitated by the peoples necessity who had no other meanes Spaine being growne too weake to defend themselves against the warre but by their protection and that as this would be a considerable addition to the greatnesse of France so would it be no small trouble to the Austrian power since it was not in good policy of State to be permitted Hence it is that many thinke they upheld the fearefull with hopes fomented the male-contents with Counsell and endeavoured to stirre such as were constant by feigned appearances so as these practises passing from one to another already infected with treachery as the Duke of Momerancy Dukes of Rohan and Delbeaf the Bishops of Vsiers Nismes and Besiers and many other principall subjects the businesse seemed already to have had a good beginning But on the one side they found the Swedes proceedings to be such as neither the German Forces nor yet the Forces of Flanders which were much weakened seemed to be any wayes able openly to second the commotions in France and that the straights whereinto they were by the Swedes reduced did not well comport with the irritating of France and thereby drawing upon them a dangerous warre and on the other side they considered that to passe by such an occasion as this whereby to moderate the greatnesse of France was to lose that wisedome which as the Pilot of the Spanish Counsels brought their resolutions oftentimes to a happy shore since wise Polititians ought never to abandon those undertakings out of feare which may suffocate feare nor embase themselves in those difficulties which
valiantly withstood are usually by time and fortune dissolved Wherefore finding no lesse danger in bearing with those jealousies threatened by the Frontier Army the gray-headed Spanish wisedome refined by the Italian subtilty and made perfect by the continuall mannaging of so many and various examples measuring their height of profit with their depth of danger unanimously agreed to endeavour intestine trouble in France to shelter themselves from the cloud which threatened them and to win time which being of great help to those who study witty projects tâey hoped to reape thereby good advantage and though the small Forces which Orleans had with him promised no great effect yet the hopes they had that many others who had not yet discovered themselves and who bore ill will to the Cardinall would joyne with him as being the Kings onely Brother and Heire apparent to the Crowne of France made them hope for some good event And for as much as past examples doe much authorize the Counsells of Princes whereupon building their Maximes they thinke that what hath once happened may be an unvariable Law to future times the Duke growing somewhat coole in the enterprise having no other hopes then those already layd and his Councellours rather blinded by desire then guided by vertue egging him on by calling to mind past examples whereby âe might see what effects the instabilitie of other Princes had wrought who were much inferiour to the onely Brother of the King they conjectured the like issue must be expected from the troubles so prejudiciall in former times as also at the present to all France It was therefore commonly said by many That the Duke of Orleans perswaded by these suggestions and likewise comforted by Momerancyes promises who was Governour of Languedock and by the hopes of receiving succour from Spaine suffered himselfe to be perswaded and that therfore drawing in an undue season into the Field and being come out of Lorayne He with the Dukes of Roâan and Delbeafe Count Moret and his Favourite Pilloran came into Languedock where joyning with the Forces raysed by Momerancy and being in this folly followed by many from all parts great troubles were likely to have insued in France For the which though the Spaniards designe seemed then to have had a good beginning for Marshall De la Force who was with his Army upon the Frontiers of Germany towards the Dukedome of de Pont for the enterprise of Filisberg belonging unto Trevers as has beene said being sent for to suppresse the Rebellâ freed those Frontiers from the jealousies the Austrians had conceived yet did not that effect follow which was hoped for by the Enemies of France for the Kings Forces hastened thither and these being with good conformitie mannaged by the wise orders of Cardinall Richelieu and the Rebells Forces being divided within themselves by the bad correspondency held betweene the Duke Delbeafe and Pilloran with Momerancy and Marshall Schamburg who was a particular Enemy to Momerancy closely pursuing him and fighting with him neere Chasteauno d' Arri Count Moret was slaine the Rebells disper'd and Momerancy taken Prisoner At which accident Monsieur being exceedingly troubled and they fayling in their courage who inciting sedition and instabilitie use onely to keepe so long constant as their hopes meet with no opposition And finding he could expect safetie from no where else but from the King his Brothers clemency for he was not onely pursued by Schamburgs victorious Forces but likewise by those of Marshall De la Force he resolved to aske forgivenesse of his Majestie and to returne to his obedience He to this purpuse dispatcht away Monsieur De Caudebonne he found no resistance in the King who accounting it a piece of greatnesse to pardon could not but be mollified at the intreatie of an only Brother mislead by evill Counsellours His Majestie therefore dispatcht away Monsieur D' Ayguebonne Brother to the said Caudebonne to the Duke his Brother to assure him of his pardon And at the same time going from Dawpheny towards Languedock and Monsieur comming to meet the King the Articles of agreement were as they were upon the way concluded on by the Duke of Boullognie the contents whereof were That Monsieur confessing his fault did desire the King would be pleased to pardon him promising to give his Majestie any reasonable securitie that he would no more commit the like error That he would forgoe all practices as well within as without the Kingdome and more particularly that he would forsake all intelligence held with the Spaniard the Duke of Lorayne and the Queene Mother as long as she should keepe her selfe out of France that he would not take in ill part any thing his Majestie should doe to any one that had beene guiltie of Treason nor that he never would aske pardon of the King for any forreigner that had accompanied him in this his mischiefe intended to the Kingdome to all which notwithstanding six dayes time was allotted to retire themselves into the Country of Rossâglion that he should not keep neer his person nor in his Court any one that his Majestie should not approve of and if he âad any such âeer him hee should to free suspition put him away and for that it could not be believed but that all those evill Counsels had proceeded from Pilloran that the said Pilloran should be bound to make knowne any Treaty that might have beene prejudiciall to the Crowne These being signed by the King great was the joy thoughout the whole Court and the Count D'Allois sonne to the Duke of Angolesme and Colonell of the light Horse was appointed to waite upon his Highnesse to the King who spoke with him upon the way and thus was this fire quencht which perhaps might have set all France on a flame The Duke of Momerancy not being comprehended in the Articles and the Duke of Orleans having promised not to beg pardon for any one that was not therein specified remained to be disposed of as the King should please who knowing how much prejudice Princes receive by pardoning their Subjects for the breach of their Allegeance and that to free ones selfe of enemies otherwise then by iustice is a signe of some feare maturely weighing the salve for this sore which by indulgency is alwayes renew'd although his Majesty was alwayes more inclined to mercy then to justice yet at last he resolved to let France know by the example of this Prince one of the chiefest of all his Kingdome that his mercy extended not to pardon high treason which should he doe it would soon be set at nought that he had been taught by the government of his predecessors not to admit of yoak-fellowes in his Kingdome and that it was not praise-worthy to passe by those offences which tended not onely to his owne privat harme but to the prejudice of the publique Nay by this notable example of his upright government this mighty Monarch afforded the world occasion to admire his great
by the French he had refused and how he had hazarded his estate and ventured his owne life for the most glorious house of Austria These conceptions being with efficacy urged by those imployed by his Excellency of Bavaria met not with any thing that withstood their making an impression in the hearts of those to whom they were imparted and for that the Interest of Princes is as apt to take âire as Tinder shadowes serving them for substances many Counsellours began to be distasted with Walesteines actions who formerly had viewed and looked upon them through such spectacles as doe falsiây the object which now throwing aside they found what would be the sequell of his being thus proceeded withall for politicians looke still to be offended by him whom once they have offended and that they cannot preserve themselves from revenge but by reiterating their offence The Spaniards as those who are thought to be of a more refined judgement then others and who doe alwayes with wary advice bring about the ends tooke councell how to loosen the freedome of their Princes from bondage to tye his hands who plotted their prejudice and how to keep the Crowne of Bohemia upon their heads and seeing that the evill was sufficiently cankered and inveterate for that Walesteine had got to be so reputed of his Souldiers and had wone so much upon their affection and observancy as that they were not likely easily to forsake him whom they knew to be prodigall of his rewards to them and for that the greatest part of the Commanders had been by him preferred to their places of Command and were consequently his well wishers and would in all likelihood run the same fortune with him as likewise for that 't was generally thought that he had accumulated much riches all which presented themselves as objects of ruine to the eyes of those Counsellours they therefore saw it was expedient to bring violent remedies to this indisposition and began with all diligence to have an eye to his apparent infidelity But if the Condition of Germany were thus and these the proceedings of the Protestants and the Romanists each indeavouring to overthow the other and if nothing but Armes were talked of in every place and threatnings everywhere proclamed the like affairs began to bud up in Italy For Duke Crequi being then Embassadour extraordinary for the King of France at Rome where he had been ever since the preceding Iune staid there to draw the Pope to leane favourably to the King his Master and to make other agreements with the Princes of Italy And the Polach Embassadour extraordinary came likewise to Rome at this time sent thither by his King the pompe and magnificence of both which have been sufficiently set forth by able pens The Spaniards were much moved to see as they would publiquely say that pleasures and delights should make the consideration of what misery the world was in laid aside that many studyed nothing but pompe and vanity striving how they might exceed in apparrell dyet and other magnificencies and they as professing more zeale to Religion and as neerer neighbours to the Churches patrimony pretending to be of greater Authority with the Pope then any other potentates were not a little troubled and grieved that they should be so forward in spending their gold and bloud in ayd of Religion which was supprest whilst the Ecclesiastickes onely intending their owne quiet did not onely not trouble themselves with thinking how to assist the Emperour but were not any wayes carefull of those imminent evils which were threatned to Christendome by the proceedings of the Protestants they therefore resolved to try the Pope and to indeavour not onely to interest him on their behalfes in the present warre but likewise to make him give the King of France an admonishment for his assisting the Protestants against them They therefore chose the Bishop of Cordova and Signior Iohn de Chiamadser men of acute wisedome and profoundly politique who being come from Spaine to Rome and joyning with the Cardinals Spinola Cueva Borgia and the Marquesse of Chasteaw Roderigo the Spanish Embassadour in ordinary they joyntly agreed to be instant with his Holinesse that he would assist the Emperour with monies and to that purpose obteyned the tenth of all the Ecclesiasticke goods in Sicile Sardinia Portugall and other parts which was thought would amount to 500000 Crownes At this time dyed the Infanta Isabella Clara Eugenia at Brussels wherefore Flanders wanting a Prince of the Austrian blood to governe it the Infant who was yet at Milan was solicited to come thither This Princesse left this world in the 67th yeare of her Age and 33 of her Government she was a Lady of a Majesticall aspect affable and full of Curtesie her customes were religious even to admiration her actions devoute and her government most just Her losse was lamented by all Flanders but chiefly by the Inhabitants of Brussells for the Marquesse of Aytona having taken upon him the government and having by night stolne in many Spanish Souldiers ââto the Towne the Inhabitants tooke this his diffidence of them in such scorne as hatred supplying the place of loyalty the Flemish devotion to the Spaniards began to vanish apace and some novelty was likely to have happened had not their hopes of receiving the Infant into the Throne which they had so much reverenced moderated the violence of the popular desire and the passion which was conceived by the Nobility Aldringer this meane while leaving a Garrison in Miminghen and Kauffburen retired with the Duke of Feria towards Fussen upon the Confines of Swabenland towards Tiroll upon the Leech when Wert thinking to surprise Ollins his quarter a Swedish Colonell in a Village neer Straubing called Harthawsen went thither by night but finding the Swedes drawne forth of the Village into an advantagious place with their weapons in their hands he set fire on the Village and fearing to meet with a hard incounter for that the Allarme was already given round about he returned to his former station Whilst in Vienna and in other places the greatest policy that in wisedome could be found out was practised by faithfull Ministers of State for what concerned Walesteines actions Baudis who as hath been said was about Coln tooke in Bona and Ertfield Townes belonging to that Electorat and seated along the Rhyn begirt onely with single Wals and Ditches after the ancient manner which made them not fit to resist the Cannon and other moderne offensive inventions where afterwards by the interposition of the Holland Embassadour he treated with the Elector touching a Newtrality which tooke effect And Cronisfield being advertised that Waldeck a place from whence a ridge of Land takes it name which lyes between the Landsgrave of Hessens Country the Arch-Bishoprick of Paderborne and the Dukedome of Burgher in Westfalia along the Eder named the County of Waldeck was much opprest by the Swedes marched thitherwards for it was not fitting to permit the Protestants
and at last agreed that it was expedient to conferre that place upon Duke Bernard Waymer a German by birth and consequently desired by the chiefe Commanders and Souldiers of that Nation which is the sinewes and strength of the Swedish Armies a daring Prince and beloved by the Souldier and common people and one who would hardly submit to be commanded by a stranger Though the Deputies the Souldiers and other Princes of the Union were pleased with this Election yet was not the Duke of Saxon therewithall satisfied as well for that the King being dead he pretended to be chosen Generall and to have the whole weight of the Warre intrusted in him since there was no Prince amongst all the Confederates of greater strength then he nor who had more favoured the Swedes as also for that Waymers greatnesse who was a Prince full of spirit and descended from the right line of the first borne of Saxony which were expelled their state by the Emperour Charles the fifth made him not a little feare that if the Swedish affaires should prosper and he should winne upon the Souldiers affections he mought aspire to recover that which he knew had formerly belonged to his Ancestors These jealousies having gathered together a great masse of grosse humours in the Electors breast whom the Caesarian Ministers of state failed not to put in mind of what accidents might easily fall out inviting him to an accomodation by large proffers and efficatious perswasions he was seene to be much changed and beganne to nauseate Oxesternes and Waymers actions and to be more cautious in his confiding in them then he was wont and this was afterwards knowne to be the rise of Saxonies falling from the Swedes Horne who wisely fore-saw this storme rid post to Franckfort treated and consulted with Oxesterne how to find a remedy for so important a businesse but he was not much listened unto by those who governed by passion gave no eare to the reasons he alledged nor was there any one who thought how to appease the Electors displeasure for the Swedes were now growne to that hight of pride as that they cared not for any one thinking that every one should take it for a favour to be numbred among their friends the effects of prosperitie wherewithall men are blinded and as with Wine made drunke with confidence and presumption as likewise of the prosperitie of Northerne people who thinking abundantly well of themselves shew pride in their actions affording thereby occasions to us Italians to call them barbarous They pretended that the Elector was bound to second their resolves which made them afterwards very wel know that the government of States ought not be exercised with ambition nor passion but with wisedome free from any particular interest and from any affection which thwarts the publique good Whilst this Dyet was held Lieutenant Generall Milander came before Rurort which lyes upon the Rhyn below Coln fortified partly after the Ancient partly after the Moderne fashion he set upon it and at the end of seven dayes the Inhabitants not able longer to hold out surrendred it upon Articles And in Alsatia the Governour of Colmar clothed some of his Souldiers in Countreymens habits and feigning as if they carryed somewhat to sell sent them to Ruffac in Alsatia not farre from Colmar neere to the Mountaines which divide that Province from Lorayne These surprising the Gate let in the Swedes that lay not farre off hid in a Wood who when they were entred the Towne which they treated but ill knowing they could not keepe it for the Marquesse of Baden was marching apace towards them with many Souldiers drawne out of the Garrison of Brisach and other parts thereabouts they retired againe with good bootie to Colmar and tooke so many of the Magistrates prisoners as payd 12000 Crownes for their ransome Horne was returned from Frankfort to his Army and was already preparing to march into the upper Palatinate and joyn with Waymer when Aldringer understanding thereof who was upon those Frontiers with a Body of men consisting of 8000 Foot and 4000 Horse watching the Swedes proceedings presently quit his quarters and went towards Tachaw a little Towne of Bohemia upon the Confines of the Palatinate into which the Horse of both Parties being entred divers skirmishes were made wherein the Swedes had the worst for the Crabats treated them but ill The Duke of Bavaria and the Duke of Feria met about this time at Beuberg upon the Iser neere Monaco where they consulted how they might easiliest regaine Ratisbon a place very requisite for the Bavarians interest but finding it to be a businesse of difficultie for that the Enemy was very strong in the Field the Army of the League and the Spanish Army much weakned by the death and running away of many of their Souldiers and that they could not promise themselves assistance from Walesteine but rather feared that he might disturbe them in that enterprise they resolved at last to forbeare the businesse for a while and not to hazard the honour of their Armies before a Towne the taking whereof was uncertaine and the losse certain which they were to receive from those that defended it and in the retreat it behoved them to make which is held for an excellent rule by the wisest Commanders For to retreat without doing any good from an enterprise once undertaken embases the Souldier redounds to the discredit of the Officers addes to the vigour and reputation of the Enemy and makes the Leaders on be accounted ill-advised a word very hurtfull to the Conductors of Souldiers They therefore quartered their men part in Bavaria part in Swabenland and part in Tiroll preparing for new Levyes and recruiting their Armies that at the Spring their numbers might be full and they ready to perfect that and other enterprises notwithstanding the Swedes wisely foreseeing that it would be hard for them to keep Ratisbon which was invironed by the Territories of Bavaria unlesse they had the upper Palatinate free they commanded Berâhenfield who was quartered with 4000 Foot and 2000 Horse in the parts about Ausburg to passe over the Danube and to goe into the Palatinate and to joyne himselfe with Waymer and unanimously to fall upon such undertakings as they should thinke fittest to maintaine their Armies in those Provinces Yet did not their resolutions take effect for the Imperialists having had time to prepare themselves for defence the Swedes failed in their indeavours in taking of Amberg the Metropolitan of the upper Palatinate seated in a Champaine Countrey beautified with pleasant and fruitfull Hills and were inforced to withdraw themselves to their former stations of Chamb and Weâden Horne finding then how hard a matter it would be to get the Palatinat by reason of the strength wherewith it was guarded he thought it would be better to passe back againe into the upper Swabenland wherein the Imperialists garrisons were very weake and since he could not prosper in one place to
Brussels his great danger of being totally bereft of his Dukedome and yet resolving not to forgoe his good Intelligence with the Austrians desirous likewise not to see Lorayne fall into the hands of any others then some of his owne family pitcht upon new resolutions which were very considerable and thought to be very opportune had not he through this vizard looked upon another object and higher designe He therefore resolved to renounce his state to the Cardinall Francis Nicholas his Brother for that he being one that had beene no wayes faultie might easily find both pardon and favour from the King The Cardinall desired the Kings consent thereunto who graciously afforded it him Insomuch as it was reported this was done upon promise he should joyne in alliance with some such Prince as the King should approve of whereupon it was jestingly said it was with the Daughter of Charles Duke of Mantua and that he should really quit all intelligence with the Spaniards and with Duke Charles as those who caused jealousies and suspitions in the French But because these pretences were regulated by the Dukes agreement and the Austrians approbation as it was commonly said to delay time till fortune might look favourably upon the affaires of the Empire and the Spaniards not permitting that the Cardinall should marry with a Subject that depended upon France nor yet that submitting himselfe to the will of the French he should unherd himselfe from them and their protection and the streights wherein they found themselves being of moment herein they the more willingly set about it So as that the marriage which the King approved of might not take effect and that the new Duke might not forsake the Austrian partie they betooke themselves to new resolutions But being the resolutions of Princes when they are farre other then what they promise cloath themselves usually with artificiall honesty and goe beautified by some pretencâ the true meanes to cover all breach of word Duke Charles wrought the matter so as that the Dutchesse his Wife should relinquish all her claime she had to that Dukedome as heire to Duke Anthony her Father and Charles his Uncle to her Sister the Princesse Claudia for that the Cardinall perswaded afterwards by reason that he should not be Duke if the Princesse Claudia as enfeoffed by the Dutchesse were descended out of the house of Lorayne that I say palliating by these excuses which were so advantagious to this so well woven peece of Art he might marry this Princesse and render the French designe vaine The Cardinall suffering himselfe thus unwisely to be governed by his Brothers interessed counsell and the like of his friends unprovidently and without the Kings knowledge or consent resolved upon this match which proving a great concernment to the French Commanders and Governours who very well knew how ill those Princesse and the people of those parts were inclined to them they sent speedy newes hereof to the Court and were advised to increase their guards and to watch more narrowly over the new Dukes proceedings On the other side this Duke judging by the new demeanour of the French and call'd on by his owne consideration to examine his interests found that he was to expect some new accident he judged it was not safe for him to tarry longer at Nancy where he was little better then a prisoner amidst so many guards nor yet to quit the State which by his assistance he hoped to preserve He chose a third way believed by himself and confident to be the most behovefull for the safety of his owne person upon all occasions and not to give jealousies to the French and this was to retire himselfe to Luneville a place begirt onely with bare Walls seated neare the Mosell ten Leagues from Nancy where the Dukes of Lorayne have their places of pleasure and are wont to recreate themselves with Hunting Under pretence of such disportment he went thither and being there answer came from France to the Letters formerly sent wherein was contained as was commonly reported that the French Commanders should have a diligent eye to secure the forth-comming of both their Highnesses that upon the occasioned appearances since the Dukes deeds differed from his words La Motta should be demanded of him a strong place situated upon a Rock that the Princesse Claudia should be sent to Paris and that the French might be permitted to put a Garrison into Luneville whereby they might keepe those Dukes from parting thence To performe this the Marshall Dela Force went to Luneville and in seemly and faire manner delivered his Embassy to the Duke who surprised with this unexpected accident granted Luneville but did immediately refuse to deliver up La Motta or to be deprived of his Wife upon reasons conformable to the agreement a little before made But the Marshall replying that this was his Commission and exhorting his Highnesse to submit unto the Kings will the Duke growing pale and complaining of violence replyed he had no other place to retire unto but La Motta that his Wife was given unto him for a Companion by God and that nothing but death should part him and her that the King might content himselfe with being Master of Nancy and of all the remainder of his State To which in conclusion the Marshall replyed I ought and will obey my King your Highnesse may doe well to aske counsell this night of your pillow I will send one of his Majesties Captaines of the Guard to morrow for your answer The Marshall this meane while taking his leave gave order that such Foot and Horse as were lodged thereabouts should draw neerer Luneville to prevent any thing of noveltie that might ensue if the Duke should escape thence The next morning the Captaine of the Guard came accompanied with good store of Horse and insisted upon the three demands made by the Marshall but got no other answer from the Duke save onely that if he would accept of Luneville he would deliver it over unto him it being a place of no consideration but that he would never forgoe La Motta nor his Wife and with these words making his owne Wife and the Wife of Duke Charles goe into the Coach he himselfe got on Horse-backe and going from Luneville went towards Marienville The Captaine following him came up unto him and desired to know whether hee intended to goe to which the Duke replyed whether it shall please God since I can find safetie in no place the Captaine added your Highnesse will please to excuse me I onely askt it that I might wait upon you 'T is more then needs said the Duke I am commanded so to do said the Captain and then poynting out unto him the way to Nancy he said your Highnesse must goe this way not that way The Duke astonished to see himselfe thus made prisoner galloped to the Coach where the two Duchesses were and crying out aloud that they were betrayed broke out into such expressions against the
French Ministers of State as the Captaine was inforced to reprehend him and to wish him to be more advised in his speeches The Duke was hush and not able to say a word went to Nancy where new Guards being put into the Castle and all the Avenues being well lookt unto though the French would not owne this as restraint the desires concerning his Wife and Le Motta were againe renewed the which the Duke still denying the French were much perplext what to doe and the Duke fell upon a thousand severall imaginations when newes came from all parts that the King being highly offended with him for his aforesaid actions was resolved to have him forth-comming since his words and actions did not correspond The Duke fearing to incurre further displeasure knowing he could not by any other Treatie withdraw himselfe from the imminent danger which hung over him resolved to save himselfe and his Duchesse and losing his State to enjoy at least that libertie which he held deerer then Kingdomes He therefore acquainted Monsieur Pollion an ancient servant of his and one in whom he much confided with this his intention and discoursing how they might make an escape they at last agreed that the said Pollion under pretence of Hunting should send some Horses Hounds and Hunts-men towards those parts which lead into Burgundy and that these being left in severall places upon the way should wait for their comming but all the difficulty lay in their getting out of the Castle in the which to boot with the other Guards at the Gates a hundred Harguebuziers waited in the outward roomes and lodgings and especially every night and morning the Serjeant Major of the City under pretence of visiting their Highnesses came to see whether they were there or no so as their getting thence would prove a hard matter They therefore did herein imploy their wits and at last they light upon a secret paire of staires which opening from the Duchesses lodging landed upon the ground and from thence the way lay through a little gate into the old City by which they thought to escape but there was at the foot of this stair-case a house wherein some of the French Guard lay and the little gate being chained up with great Irons chaines provided of purpose by the French and no passage being to be had without the breaking thereof Monsieur D'Pollion advised hereupon with a very skilfull Smith with whom he prevailed so farre as to make him desirous his Master might escape So as the appoyntment being made betweene them and the Duke calling for Monsieur D'Morisse a Servant of his in whom he much trusted and to whom he imparted the businesse they consulted together how they might effect their desires They agreed that the Smith being let into the Chamber apparrelled like a Gentleman should breake open the Gate before the time of going to bed that the Duchesse should depart in a Pages habit and that the Duke comming downe the said staires by night should get to Monsieur Pollions house where course should be taken for their getting out of Towne On the last of March the Smith came into the Chamber and hid himselfe underneath the Dukes bed the Serjeant Major had according to his custome given good night unto their Highnesses when Monsieur De Pollion having a Page before him with a Torch lighted in his hand entred the Castle and came into the Duchesses Chamber who was laid in her bed and streightway putting on the Pages apparrell tooke the same Torch in her hand and went before Monsieur Pollion out of the Castle the Guards suspecting nothing the Duke after midnight descended the staires with his shooes off and without any trouble past through the Guards chamber and got also out of the Castle for the Souldiers who suspected nothing were all asleep and when he was come to Monsieur Pollion's house that they might with more safety get out of the City hee and the Duchesse cloathed themselves like two Gardiners who are wont to carry dung out of the City to such Gardens as lye about Nancy and having so besmeared their faces as that they rather looked like Colliers then Princes the next morning at the opening of the Gates with each of them a basket of dung upon their Shoulders they passed freely out of the City Monsieur Pollion who under pretence of hunting as hath been said was to go out got into his Coach with six Horses soone after the Duke and Duches were gone and without giving any the least suspition went out of the City for the Guards having lookt into his Coach suffered him to passe as they had used to doe The Duke and Duchesse this meane while in their counterfeit apparrell walked apace and were got a good way off the City but were so weary by reason of their burthens and their walking on foot which they were not accustomed to doe as that the afflicted Duchesse was ready to fall upon the ground and the Duke stood weeping to see the poore Lady brought to such a condition when the Coach comming up to them they began to take comfort threw away their baskets and got readily into the Coach and made what hast they could to the place appointed where their horses staid for them where immediately getting upon fresh horses they arrived happily in the French Contée and came to Bisanzon where they rested themselves in Monsieur Morisse his house after their wearysome journy The next morning the Serjeant Major came according to his custome to give their Highnesse a good morrow when the doore-keeper stept unto him and desired him to forbeare a little for that his Highnesse was not well the other was content but returned againe some two houres after the doore-keeper would not yet open the doore unto him excusing himselfe that he had received such command from the Duke his Master the Serjeant-Major threatened then to beate open the doore to whom the other answered he had no reason to doe so and said it was a shame that a poore Prince should not be suffered to sleep as long as he would and did thus a while entertain him but not knowing that they were gone out of their beds contrary to their customes at other times hee resolved to knocke at the doore and hearing no answer made he forced it open and being entred into the chamber seeing no body there and finding the staire door broken open he found what the matter was and much incensed sent many Horsemen abroad in pursute of them who rid many Leagues to little purpose These Princes having staid some dayes at Bisanzon where they refresht themselves after their sufferings and laying aside their gardiners weeds they went from thence and tooke their way towards Savoy where by order from that Duke they were feasted presented and entertained like Princes though the Embassadour of France as it was reported desired they might be there detained From thence they went to Milan where they were civilly and honourably
time by a French Garrison Having therefore agreed on the manner with Prince Thomas who was then Governour of all the King of Spaines Forces in Flanders and was with the other Austrian Forces in Lucemberg hee made Count Finden march thitherward and by the favour of the season of the Intelligence hee held and of the neglected guards who expected not such an accident the City was suddainly set upon and taken on the 21th of March the Elector made prisoner and brought with a good Convoy to Brussels many of the Garrison slaine and taken This action though it were of some consideration to the House of Austria aswell by the addition of the Towne as for the Electors person who to purchase his liberty would at all times give his voice in the Imperiall Dyet for the crowning of the King of Hungary King of the Romans yet was it thought by some to be no little misfortune for this being a blow wherewithall France being now great in power and Military preparations would bee netled so great ruines were foreseeen as not onely their owne Subjects but their Neighbours yea all Europe should suffer thereby and so it fell out For the King of France to boot with these apparent injuries sufficient to legitimate an occasion of breaking Peace was little satisfied with the proceedings of the Spanish Agents who were publickly peacht by the French for having wrought upon the Duke of Orleans and other subjects of France by many hopes and filled them with vast imaginations thereby to cause civill discords then which they could finde no better diversion and for having done other things prejudiciall to that Kingdome And finding at last the breach might well be retarded but not evaded for the Spaniards would never have suffered the French to make such Achievements without drawing a Sword and not requite them by Armes since it so became them to doe in respect of those who for their sakes were turned out As likewise for that it did not well agree with their government that the French should grow greater and should get neerer to their Confines whereby they should be continually jealous of their neighbourhood and be sure to have them alwayes a counterpoise to their greatnesse whilest under the name of good neighbours they had possest themselves of such Townes as were held by their Forces for the preservation of such as had flowne unto their King for protection They resolved not to permit any longer any such hostility without resentment Having therefore concluded upon Warre the King of France sent an intimation to the Infanta which implyed an open breach unlesse hee would presently restore unto him Triers and set the Elector at liberty the Messenger whereof was not by his Highnesse listned unto Henry Duke of Rohan who was with a great body of men about Ramberviller in Lorayne was commanded to fall downe into Alsatia that he might be ready for the imployment he was put upon Duke Crequi who was returned from his Embassy from Rome and who was made Lieutenant-Generall of all the French Forces in Italy had Commission for the raising of 10000 Foot and 2000 Horse in Dolpheny and Bresse and to be ready to fall into Pâemont upon any such order from the King 2000 French Foot were sent to Casalle Much Military Provision was sent to Pinerolle The Inhabitants of Pragelle which is a Vallie on this side the Mountaine of Geneva and from whence issueth the River Chison which having cut through the Vallie of Perosa fals into Poe neer Villefranca were commanded to make certaine places of those Mountaines more easy to be passed that such Souldiers as were to goe from Lyons and Grenoble into Italy might passe that way Monsieur de Bellieure a personage of great esteem was declared Embassadour extraordinary to all the Princes and Potentates of Italy And because the Duke of Parma who was still more and more distasted with the Spanish Agents held good correspondency with the French divers Companies of Horse were sent towards Parma and a good summe of Mony was sent by the King to the Duke thereof to raise new Troopes and for the payment of an Army in his owne state of which together with the assistance of other Princes their friends the French thought to make use to assist them on that other side in the assault they intended to give by the way of Montferrat to the state of Milan And if the effect thereof had been answerable to the wisedome of the plot and his Majesties advice had been readily executed doubtlesse the Spaniards might have run the hazard of losing the state of Milan which did then sufficiently want men for its owne defence Thus the Embassadours being dispatcht away diligent preparations for Warre were made on both sides The newes hereof comming to the Emperours Court which was not yet quite free from the former disorders altered the pulse thereof on this side and did not a little obviat those hopes wherewith they were already much comforted by their late good successe against the Swedes Wherefore fearing some new mischiefe they speedily summoned the wisest of their Councell together and examined such things as most concerned the preservation of the Empire and found that their discords with the Protestant Princes were the repletions which kept it languishing for that the Warre maintained in their owne Territories weakned the Frontiers of Germany and laid low the Spaniards high designes built upon the power of the Emperour 'T was therefore agreed upon that all diligence should be used to finde out an adequat remedy for this malady which they found not to consist in their owne Forces disperst abroad in other places through the hostility of the Princes of the Empire The Elector of Saxony was then againe invited to a new treaty of Peace which was propounded unto him and accompanied with the fairest propositions that necessitie could find out Baron Curts went to Prague to treat with those deputed by the Elector who though at first they were hardly perswaded to come thither they at last agreed upon a meeting wherein the Electors pretensions and the Emperours proffers were made knowne The Duke was found to be already somewhat diffident of the Swedish Agents for the Reasons that have beene said and that he was greatly jealous of the French-mens having declared themselves whose greatnesse was distasted by the Dutch and that he feared lest by the assistance of that King Duke Waymer and the Swedes might grow to such an excessive power as that he himselfe should not dare to answer to Waymers pretensions which might perchance fall upon the Electorate as being formerly the patrimony of his Progenitors Hereunto was added That the Princes of the Empire not being pleased with the depression of the Austrians thereby to exalt Forreiners it was no good Maxime so farre to agrandise their friends as to become afterwards no lesse jealous of their greatnesse then of the Emperours excessive power So as finding himselfe in a condition
successe of this Warre and that since he was not in a posture of doing what he pleased he could not chuse but ratifie the Articles agreed upon formerly with the King of France at Lusa and Pinarollo yet howsoever he would endeavour so to governe himselfe as should testifie how well he was disposed towards the Crowne of Spaine This meane while Crâqui having obteined leave from the Duke of Savoy to passe through Piemont and all necessary Provisions for his Army he advanced to Montferrat so as Armes being taken up in all parts of the state of Milan all the Militia of the Territories of Pavia in Lomellina beyond the Goyna was suddenly put in readinesse Three Companies of Foot were sent as a Garrison into Villata a Town upon the Confines of Montferrat the Spaniards made moreover a bridge upon Boats over the Goyna that upon occasion they might easily passe over men into Montferrat to waite upon the proceedings of the French who entertaining themselves in Treaties and negotiations with Savoy and Parma desiring that they might joyne all their Forces together and set joyntly at one and the same time upon the state of Milan spent so many dayes therein as that the Spaniards got advantage thereby and tooke such breath as afterwards preserved them in greater vigour These so many reports from France being brought to the Court of Spaine did much trouble the King and his whole Councell yet it being the propertie of wisemen to make wisedome their buckler in adversitie they were not slow in applying themselves to such expediencies as were most behofeful for the safetie of their dominions Many Companies of Foot were therefore raysed and entertained with all carefulnesse in all parts and men and moneyes were shipt away for Milan 'T was noysed abroad that the King would goe himselfe in Person to Barcellona that he might be neerer at hand to assist his Dominions and that if need should be he would passe into Italy yet this was given out more to comfort the people then that the King or his Counsellours had any such intention The Fleet which was before Naples consisting of 32 Gallies 13 Galliouns and other armed Barques was commanded to be in a readinesse to goe whether occasion should require and though at the very parting from Naples it met with such a storme as that a good part thereof was broken and scattered yet recovering the Haven at Longone in the Island of Elbe all that was amisse was in a short time repaired and amended And because the government of Milan was no longer thought fitting to be intrusted to a Cardinall but to some good experienced Souldier the Marquis of Leganes had the charge thereof given him he who being with the Infanta in Flanders wonne immortall Fame in the Battell at Nordlinghen and who by new orders from the King was returned to Spaine to acquaint his Majestie with the affaires of Flanders and Germany Though the Emperour in these perplexities by reason of his late Victories and the peace with Saxony had an Army on foot not onely able to defend himselfe but to goe upon any other undertaking yet fore-seeing that the Protestants being back't by the French might easily breake out to new commotions he made his Embassadour at Rome desire the Pope to send him good store of money to bring this Warre with the Heretiques So my Author is pleased to tearme them to an end by the which the holy Church should receive no lesse advantage But the Pope thinking that libertie of conscience granted by the Emperour to the Haunse Townes and to the Elector of Saxony did not correspond with the zeale which Caesar shewed to the Roman Religion bound up his answer in succinct tearmes and excused himselfe in civill manner and yet could not forbeare to say he did not fight directly against Heretiques since he permitted them their libertie of conscience In briefe Drums were beaten up in all parts and convenient Provisions were not omitted to withstand the current of so great a Warre But as the French-men began on this side so were they not unmindfull of what they had to doe towards Flanders for having gotten an Army together in Picardy of 20000 men under the command of Marshall Schatillione and the French themselves weighing well the importancy of their owne interests which consisted chiefely in keeping themselves from being invaded by the Spaniards as they might be in Picardy it being an open Province and fitter for such a purpose then any other bounding upon Artois a Countrey held by the Spaniards wherein are many strong holds from which invasion if they could once socure themselves they might the easier and upon better foundation march with their Forces towards the Rhyn and other places The King went himselfe in Person to Amiens the Metropolitan of Picardy and having first agreed upon the manner how to joyne his Forces with those of the Hollanders which lay in great numbers about Maestricht and which could not be done unlesse passing through Lucemberg and so crossing through the Country of Leige he should joyne with the Prince of Orenge on the other side of the Maze Marshall Schatillione and Marshall Bresse both of them Marshalls of France began to march with their Forces thether-wards The which being understood at Brussels though the Spaniards had not beene idle whilest the French were making such preparations but were provided with all things necessary to withstand so numerous Forces yet the Infanta mustered the old Army of those Provinces one part whereof was about the Fort Philippine which they indeavoured to take but in vaine and divided it into two bodies the one of which consisted of about 8000 Foot and 2000 Horse with 16 piece of Cannon which hee sent under the conduct of Prince Thomas of Savoy to oppose the French Army and hee sent the other in face of the Hollanders who lay about Maestricht thinking therewithall to resist the French Army which was likely to have suffered much of incommodity in Legnoise For 't is likely the people thereof being in Armes for the King of Spaine would not have helped them to any Provisions save what they could get by the Sword and Prince Thomas following them in the Flancke and on the Reere would have inforced them to keep close together and consequently to meet with greater difficulties But the Spaniards were not successefull in their designes for the Prince being arrived with his Army between Namure and Marche two Townes upon the Mesa and that they might not pretermit any occasion of damnifying of the Enemy having made his men advance to surprise the French Vanguard which was in a little Village not farre from thence and who as the Prince was falsly advertised were carelesse in keeping their Guards and the French being by their Spies advertised of the Spanish designe and being all close together in a Body ready to receive them made their Horse advance in the sight of the Austrian Army and to the end the Dutch might not
opinion that they should passe by all the Forts and strong holds and suddainly over-run all the whole State of Milan possesse themselves of the most advantagious passages fortifie themselves there infest the Country continually and so bring the Townes and Cities to compound for the Country being well peopled full of Nobility and Inhabitants that lived commodiously when they should see their grounds wasted and their goods destroyed they would easily be brought rather to thinke upon the preservation of their owne estates and privat interests then upon the King of Spaines Forts and this opinion was assented unto by many as known to be the likelyest to prosper but this resolution requiring more Men and Mony and being by powerfull reasons disswaded by the Duke of Savoy not grounded upon any good intention to the French but upon his owne particular interest with the which it did not well agree that the State of Milan should fall into the King of France his hands the enterprise of Valenza was agreed upon Before the which the French being to spend much time the Spaniards consequently reaped thereby the benefit to provide for the defence of the other places and to succour Valenza likewise and the French losing many of their men before this place 't was easily descryed they would be able to effect little or nothing it being held as a strong reason of State that the French-mens further progresse in that Province made not for the good of any Italian Prince by reason of the good neighbourhood which they finde who confine upon great Potentates particularly upon such who desirous to inlarge their dominions invent pretences to breake their word and to usurpe what belongs unto their neighbours Yet this Counsell was held by wise men not to fit so well with the present interest of the States of Italy who gave for their reason that the State of Milan being a new Carthage which kept all its neighbours in continuall motion and being possest by the Spaniards a powerfull Nation ambitious of glory and which hardly ever parts with what it hath once gotten Italy would alwayes be troubled with their pretensions that the French were on the contrary unquiet impatient of staying long out of France thinking there was no other world but their own Kingdome that it would not be impossible to drive out them when they should have driven out the Spaniards and so redresse that Kingdome under the power of some Italian Prince as it formerly had been They added that to adde to the power of great Princes was to nurse up a Serpent in ones bosome which at last would devour the nourisher for great Potentates remember not their neighbours good turnes but are mindfull how they may commodiat themselves by the ruine of such as border upon them Others more partiall to the French replyed That all the foolish French were dead and all the wise Spaniards All things requisite being in a readinesse they gave order for their march thitherwards which was for a few dayes retarded for their were some who thought it was not good to undertake a businesse wherin any difficulty lay with the French Forces onely since Savoy and Parma had not covenanted openly to declare themselves till they should see some Towne possessed by the French and though some were of opinion that the Duke of Parma who had a strength of about 4000 Foot and 800 Horse was able to have made an Impression in the State of Milan by which the Spanish Forces being in many places cut short the worke would consequently be the easier for the French yet did not this opinion prevaile for the Duke not daring to declare himselfe openly an Enemy to the Spaniard till the French were so farre advanced as that they might easily succour him upon any occasion kept his Forces upon his owne grounds holding the Spaniards onely in jealousie But Crequi incouraged by the hopes hee had of the Duke of Parma's being well-inclined towards his King and by the desire he found in that Prince to breake with Spaine pitcht his Camp before Valenza raised Workes and planted his Cannon and began couragiously to set upon it The Marquis of Calada who was a little before put in there as superintendent Signor Francesco di Cardine who was the governour of the Towne and Captaine Spadino a worthy Gentleman knowing how acceptable the preservation of that place would be to the King of Spaine and how much glory they should thereby gaine unto themselves began to shew as much courage and industry in the defence thereof as the French did in their desire to win it The newes of the French Armies arrivall in the state of Milan being come to the knowledge of the Townes and Cities thereof brought with it no small feare to the Inhabitants and to the Spaniards themselves For those places wanting men sufficient for their defence the whole Countrey was in a confusion for the Souldiers of the Trained Bands by their taking up Armes were rather cause of grief lamentation to their wives and children who quit the Countrey then of comfort or incouragement to defence they being generally known for white-liver'd men Yet amidst these emergencies was not the Cardinall Albernois and the other Spanish Agents wanting in courage but according to their innate undauntednesse began to make such Provisions as they thought necessary and as the shortnesse of time would permit them Expresses were sent by Post into Spaine Naples and Germany to sollicite the amassing of men and moneys a new scrutiny was made of all the people of the state and out of every hundred men eight of the ablest were chosen to place in the Forts and Forreiners were removed from thence to be made use of in the Field Il Maestro de Campo Roma was sent to Mortara a Towne betweene Pavia and Verculles to be super-intendent there Don Carlo Colombo was sent to Alessandria and divers other men of worth to the Fort Sandavall and other places upon the Confines and all those places were re-inforced with men the Drummes beat up every where and Provisions were made for the present occurrences The Spaniards desisted not notwithstanding to negotiate by their Agents with the Pope and Republique of Venice that if they intended not to succour them neither should they assist the French and chiefly they feared lest the Venetians should declare themselves who were instigated by mightie offers from the French to appeare in their behalfes and to bring their Forces on this side Alda the Venetians being very strong having 8000 Foot of sundry Nations and 2000 Horse well in order in Lombardy beyond Mincio under the command of Luigi Zorzi their Generall a valiant man much esteemed and feared who to boot with his refined judgement was couragious and resolute in his Warre-resolves they had moreover more men quartered in Crema and thereabouts under the conduct of Michell Priuli a sonne not unlike his father who had formerly beene Duke of Venice an Heroick Prince who had a
being thus recruited marched into the field to oppose the inrodes of the Swedes who keeping in the State of Magdeburg did much infest those Towns which joyned upon Saxony and putting some of their Regiments to flight they slew many of them and tooke 7 Ensignes Bannier being hereof advertised who was reinforced about Lunenburg with 4000 Souldiers which were brought to him by Colonell Stalans from Prussia marched with his Army against the Saxons who fearing to meet with desperate men and such as desired to joyne Battaile with them though their numbers were greater their courage appeared to be lesse for they faced about and retreated to their former quarters Hannaw was likewise at this time streightly besieged by the Imperialists a strong hold fortified after the moderne fashion and seated upon the River Brints which taking its head from Franconia fals into the Mayne before Franckfort Colonell Vistum did herein command in Chiefe one of the bravest Commanders the Swedes had who having a stout Garrison made frequent Sallies wherewith he much troubled the Marquis of Grana and Lamboi who were the chiefe leaders of the Caesarian Camp News being come to the Court of France of their countrymens retreat from before Valenza and how little good their Commanders had yet done they took speedy advice about such things as they thought most fitting to continue the Warre in Italy and somewhat to salve their losse of reputation It was therefore foreseen and evidently made appeare by the wiser sort that little was to be hoped for in that Province whilest they were not really and effectually assisted by other Potentates or else unlesse the King himselfe should march thither in person with a powerfull Army For the French have no great desire to make Warre in Italy which they call their Grave insomuch as of 20000 Foot which came from Dolpheny hardly 10000 came into Piemont of which whole Squadrons fled daily away moved thereunto out of the impatiency the French-men have of seeing Rome Venice and other Cities in Italy where they stay lay downe their Armes and betake themselves to such Trades as they formerly used in France whereby the French Companies were so much lessened as that their Captaines not daring to acquaint the King therewithall were it either out of shame or for their privat gaine by the receiving of dead pay excused their delay by invented difficulties Whence it was that thus to set upon an estate full of strong holds and having good Forces in the fields was but a losse of men and time And the King not being able to goe out of his Kingdome by reason of the great interests of the Crowne or rather as it was said by others lest he might hazard that reputation and glory which with the universall applause of Christendome and of the whole World he had wonne when he freed the Duke of Mantua from evident Spanish subjection it behoved either to quit the enterprise or else to indeavour to conclude a friendship and union with some such Potentate as might be able to set upon that State in some other part that by such a diversion the way might be opened to their desired proceedings This Counsell though it were the most proper and that which at their first taking up Armes was imbraced yet was it not thought sufficiently effectuall For those who cleerly saw the reason and relation of States argued by what was past that the Italians more hated the neighbourhood of the French then of the Spaniards they being naturally more inclined to the Spaniards by reason of their sympathizing in language and gravity with them then to the others who much differ from them both in customes and vivacity of spirit Yet building upon the opinion that the Spaniards were ill thought of as those who being potent in Italy doe infinitely desire to inlarge the bounds of their Monarchy That they had beene the cause of so much ruine in Italy as was witnessed by the fresh memory of Mantua and Lombardy they perswaded themselves that particular hatred was able in some sort to obfuscat that wisedome through which Princes regard not the memory of any thing that is past that so they may be the more intent to the present interest of their State The Duke of Parma was in this interim not well satisfied with those chiefe Agents who had the government of the French Forces in Italy who gave little appearance of concurring in advice with his Highnesse keeping their men quartered in Montferrat when both time and occasion required they should have beene imployed about the common interest before such time as further Forces should bee brought into the State of Milan as was expected from Spaine Naples Germany and elsewhere and whereof some Dutch Troopes did already appeare who were received upon the Confines by Signior Alexander Visconti sent thither to that purpose from Milan The Duke foresaw that through the Commanders negligence who minded nothing but their owne profit the Warre was at last to fall wholly upon his Country which lay open for the Spanish invasion But he was also comforted by hopes of receiving fresh aide from the King of France and that hee himselfe should have the chiefe command of the Warre A businesse which if it had succeeded as it was wisely advised the French might have hoped for better successe then they hitherto had For the Duke of Parma being a sprightly Prince and of high thoughts would have carried on the Warre with courage and ingenuity and being sufficiently ill minded towards the Spaniards would not have let slip such occasions as should have opportunely presented themselves keeping his Companies compleat and behaving himselfe like a generous Commander And when the Milanesses should have seene such a Prince in the field who can tell but that believing hee might prove another Lodowick they would not have been so faithfull unto the Spaniards as now they seemed to bee for feare of falling in subjection to the French And this was thought by witty men the best course the French could have taken for when they should have appeared not to have beene any wayes interessed themselves and that their onely end had beene to have driven out the Spaniards and to have reduced that Dukedome under the Scepter of an Italian Prince those who were subjects unto Spaine would have been glad thereof so to have been eased from the government of strangers and the other Princes of Italy hoping to better their condition by expelling the Spaniards and particularly by their dividing the State of Milan amongst them they would have heartily fomented the worke but strangers being to be exchanged for strangers and an united power as was then that of France being to be drawne neere them 't was better for them to continue the State of Milan in the Spaniards hands whose Territories are farre off and disjoyned For to compose an Army fit to defend on one part and to offend the State on another much Mony and time would be required and the
Spaniards from injuring the Piacenzan State Hee therefore sent the Body of his Army to Vespola upon the Goyna between Mortare and Novara and hee with his Horse went towards Vigevan to the end that taking that Towne hee might concentrate himselfe in the heart of that State The Territories and Townes thereabouts were sackt without any obstacle for the Spaniards not being yet joyned came not time enough to succour them Gamba Corta was therefore sent against them with a good party of Horse and a considerable strength of Foot who meeting with the French skirmished some houres with them where at last it behoved the French to retreat with some losse of Horse by which good incounter the grosse Body of the Spaniards who were assembled together about Biagras advanced and made the French abandon Vespola where the most part of their Forces were and to retreat on the other side the Goyna to Satirano and Bremo Whereupon the French failing in their hopes to remove the Warre from Parma the Dutch and Spaniards continued the taking of Townes and Castles in that State to the great prejudice of the Inhabitants who were forced to fly and forsake their houses by reason of out-rages committed by the Dutch the which the Dutch affirmed they did to retaliate the barbarismes committed by the Country-people against some of their Souldiers who were found nailed to Trees Miserable was the condition of this Province and the behaviour of those of Regio unexcusable yet when it came to the knowledge of the prime Officers who were desirous to remedy such abuses the Governour of Milan by publick edicts and threats forbad the Souldiers to commit any insolencies or extortions upon the Country-people The Swedes Forces were at this time quiet for Bannier having retired his Army to Magdeburg and quartered it in that Bishopricke attended the recruiting and refreshing thereof that afterwards hee might undertake some action and the Elector kept likewise in his quarters to prepare for the taking of Magdeburg a place of great concernment for him being seated in the very middle of his dominions and an important Passage when on this side in Alsatia the Imperialists knowing how little good they could doe in Lorayne which was well guarded by the French and their want of Forrage and Victuals increasing daily resolved to make Wert goe with his Forces from about Ramberviller and to passe into Flanders which Province was greatly threatned by a powerfull French Army that was in Picardy and no lesse by the Hollanders who instigated and fomented by the French made considerable preparations to appeare in the field and to doe some famous act Wert comming into Lucemburg and desirous to quarter his Souldiers in the Territories of Leidge hee was forbidden to doe so by order from the Magistrate thereof At which he being scandalized and having caused some Country-people to be put to death who would oppose him with weapons in their hand those Citizens mightily incenst thereat and becomming the bolder for that the French Forces were not farre off from whom they might hope for assistance and protection they presently tooke up Armes and sent 5000 Souldiers with some Cannon against Wert declaring themselves for the French protesting much and making great complaints to the Court of Brussells But this breach though it held for some dayes was afterwards accommodated for the Imperialists having past the Mosa and joyned with Picolominy who was likewise in Luxemburg ready to succour Flanders it behoved them to retire into their City which seeing it selfe beset on all sides its Territories ruined and having little hope of succour from the French as they earnestly had requested willingly could have wisht it had not been so forward in the demonstration it had made Yet did it not seem any wayes to recede for the Citizens thereof knew very well that Princes who stand in need of other mens friendships in their affaires know how to use such meanes as may preserve their friendships and not exasperat them but for Sallies and providing for Defence they did not a little perplex the Caesarians in their indeavouring to offend the City which injoying freedome and being seated upon the Mosa in a Country very considerable between Maestrickt which was possest by the Hollanders and Mamure not far distant from the Frontiers of France being likewise full of warre-like people it would have been very prejudiciall for the Spaniards interest in Flanders if laying neutralitie aside it should by the assistance of the French and Hollanders have declared it selfe an Enemy to Spaine which had received much of emolument from thence and in particular in their levies of the Walloons who are esteemed the best Souldiers in their Army Orders were therefore sent to the Dutch Commanders from Brussells that they should proceed more gently with those war-like people there being no likelihood of any other event but the making of them desperate which would be prejudiciall to the Austrian affaires But those Imperiall Commanders who were accustomed to the quarters of Germany where all licentiousnesse is used and who as Caesars Souldiers pretended they were to be entertained in all States comprehended within the Empire would notwithstanding use violence by which they did so incense those people as that preparing more and more for Warre they by their fierce sallyes did much indammage the Austrian quarters who being at last inforc't to goe against the French Forces and dispairing to effect their desires nor well seeing how they could effect them they accorded and left all differences to be reconciled by the Elector of Cobn. While affaires went thus the Duke of Parma was in Paris with the French King by whom he was courteously and affectionately received and being informed how the Spaniards continued upon his Territories and that they persisted to use hostilitie therein he earnestly begg'd assistance from his Majestie and having got a favourable answer and sure promise of ayde he tooke his leave of the King the Duke of Orelans the Cardinall Richelieu and all the other Princes and returned post to Montferrat that he might prepare to passe into his owne Countrey with such French Forces as were in Piemont who were commanded by the King to accompany him till such time as a reall succour should arrive from France as had beene promised or that the French should make such a diversion as might cause the Spaniards looke to defend themselves and not to offend others But the Spaniards although they were advertised of all this lingred not knowing that if it were believed in the Court of France that the people for the King payd for so many was sufficient to doe the worke yet were they not such nor so many as ââre sufficient So as they probably fore-saw that Crequi not having so great a strength nor desirous to appeare needfull of more helpe would feed Parma with hopes propound difficulties to the Court of France and keeping himselfe in his quarters at Montferrat would leave the Duke to the mercy of the
reduce them to some dangerous necessitie that the Duke of Mantua's obligations to the King were true but little of hope was to be grounded upon that Prince so impoverished by the late Warres that the wise State of Venice was onely intent upon the maintaining of their own Dominions and the preservation of the peace in Italy that therefore it was not probable they would like the neighbour-hood of the Forces of so great a King who the further distant he was from their Dominions was alwayes the more their friend and that it was an infallible argument that if they would not send their Forces into the Valteline nor yet into the Spaniards Territories at the first entrance of the French who it may be hoped well therein they would lesse suffer the neighbourhood of such Forces to foment them which by how much the neerer they were the more cause of jealousie did they afford That the friendship of Modena and Tuscany with the house of Austria was apparent so as nothing could be expected from them but help to the Spaniards and the contrary to the French In briefe they concluded that as the Princes of Italy were not satisfied that the Spaniard should inlarge his power amongst them so would they not indure that the French should extend themselves beyond Cassalle since their possession of that place was sufficient to keep the Spaniards in perpetuall jealousie and divert them from such thoughts as they would certainly demonstrat could they keep the French lockt up on the other side the Mountaines By these reasons the enterprise was laid aside the danger being foreseen which the Army might run of being destroyed whose numbers was lessened by the running away and death of Souldiers and who would certainly according to custome continue their disbanding and by these objections the mouths of the boldest and most couragious were stopt and they were of the more force for that any such designe without greater strength was onely built upon the aire and meer imagination Whereupon feeding the Duke of Parma with hopes and satisfying the Court with excuses they grew at last to be so negligent as it may truly be believed all the harme they suffered afterwards arose from hence Bannier who was retired to quarter in the Bishoprick of Magdeburg where by reason of sicknesse he staid for about a month having recovered his health and divers Swedish bands being joyned with him he went with his Army from thence where he saw he could not without prejudice tarry any longer And being followed by the Imperialists Saxons about Hall some skirmishes ensued wherein the Swedes had the worst whereupon the Imperialists being egg'd on to further enterprises they marched forwards to ingage Bannier in a Battaile but he wisely knowing it was not now time to hazard the gaines of so many yeares upon the few houres of one day haulted at Ghilberstet between Mansfield and Magdeburg and intrenching himselfe there prepared to fight in that advantagious situation The which when the Saxons perceived fearing that if some other Forces that were not farre off with Agafelt should come up to Bannier they should be too much ingaged and some notable mischiefe might befall them the Swedes being desirous as those who for the peace lately made by Saxony did not a little detest all the Saxon Souldiers to fight and revenge the ingratitude as they termed it used by the Duke to the Crowne of Swethland they retired likewise upon the bankes of Sala there to provide themselves of necessaries for the taking of Magdeburg which they so much thirsted after Which retreat when Bannier saw he likewise rose from Ghilberstet and went to Strasford and Altensleben places in those precincts to provide for the preservation of that City where having viewed the Ammunition Rampiers Fortifications and Garrison hee returned to his quarters at Strasford Duke Waymer who as hath beene said by reason of Gallasse his comming was retired to the Confines of Lorayne knowing that it was not possible to keep any longer in those parts which were wasted and now full of the Emperours Forces and more impossible for him to receive succour from the Swedes who because they saw that after the defeat at Nordlinghen it was behovefull for them to forgoe the Provinces of Franconia Alsatia and the Palatinat as places too farre from succour and wanting such commodities as the Armies had formerly maintained themselves withall raising great Contributions from thence had resolved to quit the warre on this side and to march with all their Forces to defend the Townes upon the Rivers of Vesser Elb and Oder the preservation whereof was necessary for them they being as it were united to the Kingdome of Swethland for having meanes to transport what men and Ammunition they pleased by the Baltick Sea of which the Swedes were Masters they might easily defend those places and by the maintaining thereof inlarge their dominions and keep up their reputations in Germany the Duke I say being thereunto perswaded by the importunacy of the Officers and Souldiers who either demanded pay or leave to depart as likewise by the large offers of the French Agents who daily solicited him to come and serve their King which if he would doe he should be generall of all his Forces though the Imperialists failed not to doe what in them lay to reconcile him to the Emperour and that these indeavours were assisted by the instigations of his brother Duke William who had already accepted of conditions offered by the Emperour yet did the French prevaile with him who indeavoured by all meanes possible to win him over unto them the which they did for that by gaining this Prince to serve them they added to their Forces about the number of 8000 old Dutch Souldiers and who were the valiantest of the present age by reputation whereof they should not onely keep the places possest by them in Alsatia in fealty whose Inhabitants were naturally ill disposed to the French But they might hope for much better advancements in Germany having one of that Nation for their Commander who was generally beloved by many Cities and Princes then if their Generall should be a stranger a French-man not knowne unto them and the name of French-man being by antipathy odious to Germany Waymer was the rather likewise hereunto perswaded by reason of the ill satisfaction he had received from Oxestern and the other Swedish Officers He went therefore to Paris where hee was received by the King and all the Nobles like a Prince with much magnificency and demonstration of joy and had his businesse concluded to his minde the King subscribing to all his known desires and thus hee tooke upon him the service of the Crowne of France And because the French desired the King of England should at this present crisis some-what declare himselfe for the restitution of the Palatinat to the Princes his Nephewes they resolved to send away Serjeant Major-Generall Ruthen a Scotch-man and one of high esteem in War
Spinola when hee tooke the same Towne in the yeare 1624. Piccolomini finding it lost labour to indeavour the succouring of La Chappelle went with his Army to before Maubrug a City seated between Landresi and Mons neer the river Sambra that if La Chapelle should be lost somewhat might be had by the taking of Maubrug The Cardinall of Vallette who after he had taken the Castle of Bussegni waited upon the Austrians to see what they would doe seeing what danger the City was in which if it should be lost he looking on would have redounded much to the shame of the French Forces marched speedily towards the Imperialists Camp But Piccolomini who knew himselfe inferiour in force to the French raised his Tents before they came up unto him not judging it now time to grapple with them and this the rather for that it was the Austrians firme advice and the Emperours expresse command who as it was thought would not have willingly dispossest himselfe of so many men though it had been for his owne affaires of the Empire that care should be had to spare the Souldiers as much as might bee since Germany being by reason of so many Warres depopulated recruits must be had from farre and would be hardly come by whereas France on the contrary being united and full of Warlike people who were desirous to see the world the King found no difficulty in recruiting his Armies hee therefore retreated neer Mons. The Imperialists retreat from Pomerania into the State of Brunswick and Alberstat incouraged the Swedes and Orenghell being joyned with Bannier they came both together to Stettin where agreeing that no favourable occasion was to bee pretermitted which might invite them to further advancement they resolved upon the recovery of Garts aswell to free the Villages which were under the command of their Forts from being insulted upon by the Garrison of that place as to open their way to greater Atchievements when the Forces should be come up unto them which were continually taken into pay by the Swedish Officers in Swethland and in Pomerania which place not being able to resist the Swedes and the Inhabitants thereof the greatest part being Protestants desirous to returne to the government of those of the same Religion and publickly to enjoy that liberty of Conscience which they so much valued and the Emperours Souldiers who had the Guard thereof fearing no lesse the injuries of the Inhabitants no well-wishers to the Roman-Catholiques then the Swedes invasion they surrendred the Towne to Bannier who was contented they should march out with their Armes and Baggage though the Citizens thereof complaining that the Imperialists carried away with them many things taken from their houses desired that was taken from them might be restored to them for the Imperialists in lieu of pay which they laid claim unto took away wheresoever they came all they could lay their hands on without any manner of respect The Swedes growing still more bold by these successes they marched without any let to before Verben where planting their Cannon and beating downe their Trenches the Saxons who had the Guard thereof staid not to be Assaulted but surrendred the City and many of them who hoped for little good from the Dukes pay changed colours and inroled themselves under the Swedes which the Elector did much resent who knowing very well that if fortune should prove propitious to the Swedes his mortall Enemies all the mischiefe and all the storme was to fall upon him and his State was likely to prove the seat of Warre he incontinently advertised the Court at Vienna therewithall as also Gallasse who for want of Victuals Mony and Men disbanded through hunger and sufferings durst not stirre from his lodgings into the Army for feare of a generall mutiny and representing the generall ruine which over-hung his estate he required and very earnestly prest the Emperour not to faile in his promised assistance Whereupon the Austrian Counsell knowing how necessary it was to give satisfaction to this Prince from whose friendship Bohemia received great advantage having Saxony for their out Wall without which the Warre would suddainly bee brought into that Kingdome though their Cofers were empty yet the Spanish fleet supplied the want thereof the Spaniards seeming no lesse concern'd herein then the Dutch and furnished 300000 Dollars which were sent to Gallasse with orders to oppose the Swedes with which the Army being a little comforted they went from their quarters in Brunswick and marched towards Bannier who not yet able to withstand the Forces both of the Emperour and Saxony went from Verben and haulted betwen Demitz and Stettin thinking to incommodiat the Imperialâsts as formerly and to drive them backe from whence they came rather by Famine then by the Sword so as the Saxons being left about Verben they suddainely retook it and Gallasse comming before Demin tryed though in vaine to take that Fort for not being able to reduce it so speedily as he had thought he was forced for want of Victuals to inlarge his quarters towards Brandenburg where being followed by the Swedes who were much inforced by fresh succour come from Swethland divers skirmishes past daily between them but of no great moment At this time William Landsgrave of Hessen a sprightly Prince and given to the Warres exhorted the King of England all that he could to make use of this opportunity in remitting the Counts Palatine into their State to which purpose many men were raised about Meppen and aswell for this as for other common causes the League between France Swethland and Holland was againe established in which France promised to pay 12000 Souldiers Swethland 5000 and Holland 5000. The Landsgrave being now gone in person to Meppen to consider what course was to be taken for the mannaging of this Warre and from thence to Holland to agree with those States what was best to be done in these present emergencies whilest he returned well-satisfied with his negotions to his owne Country he fell into a malignant Feaver in Leer a City which lies neer the Amasio between Meppen and Embden whereof hee dyed to the great griefe of the Protestants who loved this Prince exceedingly hee being a constant defender of their Religion and very firme in his friendship with his confederates never failing in his promise though unevitable ruine appeared thereby to his Dominions Therefore did the King of Swethland to answer him in affection as when he fell to praâse any one hee never forgot the Landsgrave of Hessen and Duke Bernard Waymer affirming that these two young Princes surpassed the gray-headed wits of Germany and that the Kingdome wherein they were had reason to boast The Landsgrave was a comely presence his body well composed hee injoyed a proportionable activity his aspect was pleasing whilest he was young he went into Holland and and lived under the Discipline of that great Maurice Prince of Orenge by obeying he learned how to command as Students get learning from
of men to be raised in the State with whom to incompasse the French who when they should see themselveâ invironed on all sides by the Spanyards would either be forced to fight upon disadvantage or to forsake their station Hee therefore acquainted Cardinall Triuulsio herewithall who in hiâ absence was governour of Milan and hee being a wise man caused Proclamation to bee made that all the Militia of the neighbouring parts should be mustered and that 4000. Foot should bee chosen out of them part of which were in lieu of the Forreyners which were taken from the Forts and left in their placesâ that these should joyn with the other Militia's of the parts about Lodeggian Cremona and Mount-Brianza and the Governour of Allessandria having gathered together other troops of souldiers on the other side to which 800. Swissers being added which were just then come into the State of Millan and to all those five hundred Horse which which were sent from the siege of Vercelles another bodie of an Armie was framed whereof though the greatest part were unexperienced men yet were they sufficient to effect the thing desired With these the Cardinall and Don Martin Gallicano Master of the Campe accompanied with a great many of the Gentry of Millan came to Vigerano and from thence by orders from Leganes they advanced towards the Fort Sandavall with intention that if the French should keepe their station in the Sesia they should set upon them on their backes whilst Leganes should charge them on the Front and so force them from thence with much losse But the French fore-seeing what might ensue with-drew their Cannon from the said Island and returned towards their former Quarters about Saint Germans intending to waite a better oportunity to relieve the Towne The Spaniards being by this retreate the more encouraged and encreasing their offensives against the Towne the Governour seeing the French were retreated and thereby finding how hard a matter it would bee for the Towne to bee relieved agreed by the joynt consent of all the chiefe Officers of the Garrison to come to a Treaty before they were reduced to a greater necessity For the number of of the Defendants were much lessened by their continuall sallyes and they much feared the Mynes made by the Spanyards underneath their wals He therefore sent out a Gentleman called Ogliacy to treate with Leganes Hostages were given on both sides and it was agreed upon that they should march out with their Armes and Baggage and with three pieces of Cannon and with the body of the late Duke Victorio Amedio All this was performed on the fifth of Iuly to the great rescentment of the Dutchesse who greatly complaining against the Spanyards for their using such Hostility whilest during the Duke her Husbands life they rather seemed desirous of neutrality and good correspondency with him then to come to profest enmity They by their Printed Manifestoes moderated the exclamations of the Inhabitants of Piemont and endeavoured by colourable appearances to cure the Jealousies which the other Italian Princes might receive by this who are greatly endammaged by every new acquisition made by the Spanyards in Italy The contents were That the Duke of Savoy had not only joyned with the French to the prejudice of the Crowne of SPAINE but the French being every day brought in great numbers by the Dutchesse into the Townes of PIEMONT they were come so neare to the King of SPAINES Territories that in all reasons the SPANYARDS were to secure themselves from the incursions of their enemies That Vercelles was taken not to bereave the Duke of Savoy of what was his though all things gotten by armes in faire War is lawfull but to prevent the French from getting thereinto under pretence of friendship which would bee very dis-advantagious to the State of Milan That the King of Spaine who was so great a Monarch of so many Kingdomes was contented with his own vast Dominions and needed not to care for a little Farme of the Prince of Piemonts and that they would at all times be ready to restore what they had taken when the French would doe the like for what they had usurped from the Princes of the House of Austria These excuses availed but a little to pacifye those of Piemont who mightily afraid knew not whether to turne themselves for on the one side they were displeased with the Spaniards as expecting to have their Countrey ruinated and themselves opprest by them on the other side they were but ill satisfied with the French for being the Authors of the Warre and not being able to defend them they saw that all their mischiefe had its rise from them so at it was easily seene they shewed not such affection towards them as at the first But you may give loosers leave to talke These mens laments were little valued by the Spaniards and lesse by the French for each of them minded onely what made most for their owne Interest Some notwithstanding who will not let any thing passe uncensured by them said that if the Spaniards actions were mysterious the French had likewise their ends in their designes and were not lesse deepe therein For though the Spaniards by taking of Vercelles had opened their way into Piemont and had made the French-men lose the good will of the Piemontesians and by the comming of Prince Thomas were likely to effect their desires of getting into the best Towne of Piemont and by bereaving the French thereof to strengthen Montferrat the more 't was notwithstanding seene that this might prove but a baite to draw them into some dangerous precipice For by the addition of so many Conquests causing Jealousie in the other Princes of Italy they might easily draw on a League against them from which if nothing else should have ensued the very taking up of Armes by those Princes was of Notable consequence for it would occasion the disbanding of the Spanish Army and make it a more difficult matter for them to raise men for the service of the Crowne of Spaine Since the souldiers partly weary with the sufferings of War partly allured by the desire to change fortune and to get new advance of pay partly through the feare which they brought with them from Naples into Lombardy and others being called for backe by their naturall Princes would have much lessened their Companies by their flight So as what by those who were run away and what by those that were slaine in service the State of Milan would be reduced to such a scarcity of defenders as the French might easily have flown in upon those parts The Hollanders going into the Fields and the newes which was spread abroad in France by their partakers and such as desired it should bee so that they were before Antwerpe which caused no little confusion in the people of those Provinces encouraged the French to undertake the siege of Saint Omers which though it were an enterprize of great difficulty yet was it the
daring to quit his quarters for feare his souldiers should mutiny for want of money Bannier had oportunity to assault Volghast and to take it which hee luckily did He afterwards with his horse which were led on by Tortenson advanced too neer the Imperiallists quarters with whoÌ he had divers skirmishes for it behoved Gallasse much against his will to retreat as far as Volbery towards Elbis for he fore-saw hee was likely to reap but little good by that War since the Sweedes were recruited in all parts the Imperiallists every where lesned To boot with these defaults which hindred him from proceeding on accordingly as he had hoped he was much grieved for the death of Lelio Pompey an Italian Gentleman of Verona by birth who had by many Princes been very wel esteemed of as wel in peace as war The Sweeds being the more encouraged by this retreat of Gallasse came before Dimmin of which after many Cannon-shot and three fierce assaults they made themselves Masters Wherefore Bannier marched cheerfully on toward Landsperg by the winning whereof the way was opened into Saxony and the Country of Magdeburg whether the Sweed did desire to come to take revenge for the injuries they had received from that Elector Whilest nothing but War was heard of on all sides in Montferrat each party being prepared as well for defence as offence the French expecting supplyes from France and the Spanyards the like from Naples Spaine and Germany Francisco Giacintho the young Duke of Savoy seised on by a violent Feaver dyed on the third of October whose death as it bore along with it weighty consequences so were not the effects which were thereby fore-told by our curious newes-mongers late in their arrivall for there being none left of the Issue of Victorio Amedio save one Infant Prince named Charles Emanuel but five years olde of a weake constitution of body and who was at this time sick of the small poxe a disease which raigned much that yeare 't was easily fore-seene that if he should saile great troubles would arise concerning the succession for the government falling upon the Prince Cardinall and hee having of late declared himselfe to adhere to the Spanish faction it would ensue that upon this occasion the French would never tollerate a Prince in this State which should be independant upon them so as keeping the Townes in their own possession and not suffering the lawfull Prince to be introduced it would fall out that the Subjects being well affectionate to their naturall Princes and incensed by the Spaniards against the French the War must needs grow greater which would produce bloody events The Spaniards therefore who as hath beene already said hath formerly laid great foundations upon the comming of the Prince Cardinall and Prince Thomas knowing this to be a fitting occasion sent presently for the Cardinal from Rome for that being by meanes of their Forces brought into Piemont he might the better be prepared to take possession of his right in case his other Nephew should dye The Spaniards invited him hereunto out of greater hopes for that they knew the Inhabitants of Piemont were not very well satisfied with the French after the taking of Vercelles because in steed of defending them and helping them to recover what they had lost they seemed rather desirous to possess themselves of all the rest that belonged to the Duke of Savoy pretending not to confide in the people and to have some caution of their good in their hands The Spaniards who were stil carefull to maintain their Crown in its greatness for they knew what advantage did accrew unto them by the dependency of Forreign Princes and endeavouring all means whereby they might reap any good after their accustomed fashion of civility endeavoured to correspond in gratitude to the satisfaction they had received from Francis Duke of Modena a wise Prince and very affectionat to the Crown of Spain whose good correspondency his Highness out of reason of State thought requisite for besides the great advantage which those of Modena gat by their commerce with the State of Milan it may be added that confining upon the Pope between whom and the Dukes of Modena there was never any great inwardness since the loss of Ferrara To boot then with what was already done for the Emperour had already invested him in Corraggio a Town in the heart of the Country of Modena by al other friendly demonstrations made him know what valuation his most Catholike Majesty put upon him He was under various pretences invited to the Court of Spaine and more particularly for that the Queen being great with child was ready to lye downe the King the more to win his friend-ship would have him to be God-father to his childe yet this was but a pretence to hide the true occasion which was not so easily seene by all men for the emulation being very great betwen the Spanyard and the French they could not disgest that demonstration of obsequiousness of the Duke of Parma to the King of France whilst he went to visite him at Paris without the like comming of another Italian Prince to Madrid that it might be known that if Parma did depend upon France others did side with Spaine The Duke of Modena therefore being a sprightly Prince and well inclined to make this voyage that he might see new Countreys and receive honours and profitable terms for his State which he could not chuse but do from so great a King went to the Court of Spain where he was received with greater magnificency then ever was any Prince of Italy Those who see far into State-affaires affirmed that this the Spaniards civility proceeded from the need they had both of his person and state and therefore they said they had brought him into Spain with an intention of giving him the chief command of his Majesties Forces against the French in those kingdomes the which they did not onely to obleige that Prince unto their pay but that they might have out of his Countrey which was very populous as many souldiers as they could to make use of them in their owne kingdomes It was also reported that the Spanish Ministers of State thought to make a change with this Duke and to give him the Kingdome of Sardinia for his Dukedome of Modena which would have been a very good change for the Spaniard for augmenting the State of Millan by the addition of that of Modena becomming on this side also the Popes neighbours they would have heightned their authority in the Court of Rome and the Duke of Parma bound up between the Country of Cremona and Modena would have beene inforced to depend upon Spaine and by how much the Spanyards power encreased in Italy so much did the power of the Italian Princes lessen and Sardinia being but a barren Island in a clymat almost unknown to the Italians the Spaniards would have lost but little by loosing it But the Duke being wise and no
18. of October where the Prince Electors souldiers being new professors of War and their Commanders no less unexperienced they retreated so confusedly at the first going off of the Canon as being pursued by the Imperiallists horse and on all sides invironed by the enemie who helped their victory by the seeming appearances of more Colours those who saved themselves not by flight were either slaine or taken prisoners amongst which Prince Rupert Count Palatine of Rhene and brâther to the Elector was one who was with a good guard carried prisoner to the Castle of Lynts there died in this action about 4000. of the Prince Electors men and 800. Imperiallists Sergeant-Major-generall King and the Elector saved themselves by swimming and got into Mindem many prime Gentlemen of England were slaine and some taken prisoners This victory though it were not of much moment as some would have it to be for by this the nests were not destroyed from whence new troubles were to be expected and it would rather serve for a further incitement to the King of great Brittan to proceed against the Austrians yet howsoever who shall consider the business and knows what advantage the States of the Roman Catholikes received by the securing of those Forts the reputation of their arms will finde it to be greater then it appeared to be For besides the freeing of the Ecclesiasticall Provinces from the feare they stood in of those forces great was the consequence of the recovery of those places which whilst possest by the Protestants kept the neighbouring Inhabitants in continuall agitation and made the widow of the late Landsgrave strong in her adherence to the Sweedish party The Austrians and Ecclesiasticks did therefore by publike thanksgiving witnesse the content they received hereby The King of Poland was likewise hereat well pleased for his brother Prince Casamire being some moneths before taken prisoner by the French at Bucary upon the Coast of Provence as he was going in a Galley from Genoa to the Court of Spain about some business and from thence carried to the Boys St. Vincent he thought this Count Palatine would be a fitting change for the said Prince Casamire Azfelt after having taken Vecht went to the taking in of Osnapruch which in a few dayes accepted of Lawes from the Conquerour To thwart the succesfull proceedings in these parts Duke Weymar who gallantly surrounded Brisacke did in part recover what those of his faction had lost in the Prince Electors business for receiving advertisement how that 7. Imperiall Regiments led on by Charles Duke of Loreine Bossompier and Mercy being come from Burgondy were upon their march towards Tan that they might fall down from thence and joyne with the other Austrians on this side the Rhene so joyntly endeavour that succour which Ghetz failed in he presently parted from his Camp before Brisack with 6000. commanded men six pieces of Cannon and 4. Cariages of Ammunition and went to meet with the Lorreyners between Vsfholph and Senhaim where he in person boldly set upon a squadron of horse led on by Mercy after an obstinate fight wherein Mercy with his sword in hand did no less gallantly behave himselfe then did Weymar Mercyes horse was killed under him in his retreat the courage of the Caesarians seemed also somewhat to give backe Weymar pursued them closely and though he had received a slight hurt for which his men desired him to withdraw he by no means would give backe but growing more incensed by the sight of his own blood he charged upon the Front of the enemies horse and made them turn back and then pursuing them behind did great execution upon them Greater peradventure would the mischief have been had not a great battaglion of foot commanded by Bossompiere and placed in a convenient place stayed the Sweedes in their pursuit by hailing down musquet shot amongst them for it behoving Weymar to hault here lest he might be engaged in some dangerous encounter the Imperiallists had time to retreat and assembling together againe under the shelter of those musquetiers to fight vigorously but this availed them but a little For Colonell Rose advancing with the rest of the horse and 1500 choise foot whilst the Imperiall foot and the Sweeds foot were here fighting Weymar with his horse charged furiously upon the Duke of Lorreyns Squadrons and routed them putting many of them to the sword so as the Imperiall foot being invironed on all sides they were all either slain or taken prisoners save some few of the reer who saved themselves by flight they lost their baggage their Cannon Bossompier and some other Commanders of account and about 1500. souldiers To second this happy encounter Smitbery hearing thereof who commanded the Camp on the other side of the Rhene before Brisacke he valiantly assaulted the little Fort before the bridg and after a long dispute took it by storm So as the Town being besieged on all sides and brought to great streits and not being to be relieved on any side the Spanish Ministers of State were earnestly desired from those of Caesars Court to send suddainly a flying squadron of betweene sixe and 8000. souldiers from the State of Millan into Alsatia thereby to relieve this place wherein their common interests were so much concerned but these their entreaties could not prevaile with the Spaniards For though they were very much grieved that Brisacke should be lost they more valued the State of Millan then all Alsatia neither did they think it fitting to remove in a season so near winter For besides that they were likely to lose many men in their march by hardnesse and by flight for the Italians being made wary by former examples do not willingly pass the mountains they greatly feared to loose that reputation which the Spaniards do with such punctuality cherish if the businesse should not succeed according to their desires as they much doubted it would not Their answer therefore was faire in words and appearances but short in effects The end of the fifteenth Booke The Warres and other State-Affaires of the best part of Christendome THE XVI BOOK The Contents of the Sixteenth Book The Cardinall of Savoy comes to the confines of Piemont that by the assistance of Spaine he may enter into that state Hee indeavours to surprise Asti but in vaine the Dutchesse and the French are very jealous and suspect the Inhabitants Brisack after a long seidge being brought to extreamity is yealded to Weymar The Sweeds being reinforced advance make divers atcheevements Prince Thomas of Savoy comes from Flanders is received by the Spaniards and after many consultations hee enters Piemont with the Spanish forces and atcheeves many things The Spaniards under the command of Don Martine d' Aragona goe to before Chengio they take it and Don Martine is slaine The Dutchesse of Savoy much troubled at the proceedings of the Princes her bretheren in Law taketh in the French to guard Turine and the Cittadel there and
which so much conceirned his Prince He therefore marched towards Burgondy to joyne with some of the Duke of Loreynes troopes that yet remained in that Province and then joyntly with the remainder of the Caesarian Army to indeavour the recovery of that reputation which if it were not altogether lost was little better But whilest he indeavoured to execute his intention with 1000. horse and 1500 foote Monseiur de Ficchiers being advertised thereof who with part of the French army kept upon the Frontiers of Loreyne which lay towards Germany that he might be ready to march wheither occasion should require went forthwith to encounter Savell as fortune doth not so easily turne to favour those whom shee hath once turned her back upon when they were come to Blowes the Imperialists being on all sides invironed by the French who were many more in number then they Savell with much adoe saved him selfe and his horse leaving the Foote to the discretion of the Enemy who tooke many of them prisoners and got about 80. Carriages of Victualls and Baggadge which when Reynock who was Governour of Brisack understood knowing that his last hopes were vanisht away in smoake and seeing it was decreed by the Fates that that place should be lost which was brought to its last gaspe and there being neither force nor industy that can fight against hunger he condiscended to yeild the Towne up to Weymar and to receive those honourable conditions that were offered him he therefore on the eighteenth of December marched out with Banners flying with Armes and baggadg and other such accustomed ceremonyes Thus were the Austerians deprived of this so important a place to the great displeasure of the Caesarian Court and very great resentment of the Duke of Bavaria who having long before foreseene the businesse and the ruine that was likely to ensue had given exact information thereof to the Emperour and his Ministers of state and thought the Emperours officers had failed much in their duty in taking no greater care for the preservation of a place which was the very soule of all those Provinces for they might easily have victualled and munitioned it for a longer time And the Spaniards leaving sufficient forces for their Warre in Itally and Flanders might easily have succord it and have kept afflicted Germany from those new wounds which that they might heale their owne they suffered her without compassion to receive Bavaria was moreover greived at this losse because it being the key of Alsatia a Province which serves for an out Bull-worke to his states more perticularly to the Palatinat his Enemies being got in thither would keep his dominions in perpetuall feare and agitation And though some saw that this place being to remaine free in Weymars possession it might easily hereafter be either made to have no dependency upon France or else returne againe into the Austreans hands either by composition or stratagem yet the feare least before this should happen the French might get footing there which when they should have done they would not so easily be driven out was a thing infinitly considerable in reason of State By how much therefore the Imperialists were hereat afflicted the French were as much pleased and Weymar who blowne up with glory in having wonne a place of such importance before the face of so many forces conspired against him 't was feared he might inlarge his thoughts and afflict the remainder of those states noe lesse then the King of Sweden had done whereof he was debar'd by his suddaine death as in its proper place shall be said Weymar having placed a Guarrison in this Towne and all things necessary or requisite for the defence thereof he left Collonell Erlack for the Governour thereof a Swise by nation and marched with his Army into Burgondy that he might winter there and be at the King of France his disposall whereat his first entrance he tooke many places amongst the rest the Castle of Ioux and Collonell Rosa staied to take in Tan that he might deprive the Enemy of that place of retreate and the better secure the passage from Burgondy into Flanders Passing forwards from Ioux Weymar made himselfe Master of Ponterlin which was no strong place of Nosaret another weake place towards the River Daime and being tould that some of the Enemyes troopes were quartered about Ornans a Towne upon the River Lonne he over run all those neighbouring Townes but to little purpose for upon the newes of his coming the Burgonians had forsaken them and were got into Bisansonne Banniers forces being now increased by the accesse of the people which the Swedish Ministers of State sent him in from all sides and Gallasse on the contray being inforced to retreate through the want of victualls and of money and by reason of his Armies being much diminished by sufferings and by the plague did without any manner of feare keep the feilds in those parts where finding he was dreaded and knowing the power of daring when the adversary gives back he advanced to make further acheevements and continued firme in his opinion of bringing all the Warre upon the Enemyes Country and of easing those Provinces which being quartered upon now by the one now by the other side the people which yet remained therein were brought into great want He therefore rose from his winter quarters in the one and the other Marca and in Brunswick and having mustered his Army which he found to be about 26000. fightingmen he in good order marched towards Turingia a bould undertaking but rendred feasible by reason of the confusion and paucety of the Imperiall forces in those parts The newes whereof coming to Dresden and to Prage and this neighbour-hood being very prejudiciall to that Duke and to the Bohemians convenient provisions were earnestly demanded of the Emperour who no lesse fearing these proceedings held daily Councels touching the present Emergencies Orders were sent to Azfelt who was yet about Westfalia having an eye to the proceedings of King and the Prince Elector who endeavoured all they might to rally their Forces to march with part of his souldiers towards Fulda and to discover what the Sweeds intentions were The people who were quartered in the Bishopprick of Munster and others in those Provinces were sent towards the Wesser that they might come to Gallasse in Bohemia who being indisposed in body but much more in minde by reason of Azfelts prosperous fortune who began publiquely to say hee would no longer be subordinate or subservient to him desired to withdraw himselfe to a private life At which the Caesarian Councell being not a little troubled he was comforted with good words and had leave given him to tend the recovery of his health but not to quit his charge obliging him as soone as hee should be recovered to reassume the employment which in his absence was committed to Colonell Slich But Gallasse thinking that these appearances proceeded not from the heart because he saw that together
fellow Citizens Civill Warre ought to be thrown out from conversing with men and not to be admitted within the precincts of humane nature For the truth of what is herein written you heare the Author say in his Epistle part of it is drawn to the Life as actions whereof he himselfe hath been an eye witnesse the rest he termes a Copy yet such a one as is copied from the best hands he having been very curious in the choise of those whose relations he hath list'ned unto and made use of so as at least you may afford him an Historicall faith All that of my selfe I shall say concerning my Author is that in my life time I never mett with lesse appearing Partiality in any Treatise of the like nature partiality being a corruption wherein usually the greatest escape But to keep thee no longer from tasting better Viands by a homely break-fast I leave my Author to thy judgment and my selfe to thy Favourable Interpretation Iuly the 5 th 1647. The Author to the READER WHen I was arrived at a fitting age for the managing of armes my father Count Nicholas Gualdo Priorato Colonell and Campe-Master to the most illustrious state of Venice desirous that that service which for many yeares our family had discharâghed to our Prince in honourable and prime imployments should not find an interruption or stop in me sent me into Flanders where I was three yeares a voluntier amongst the chiefe commanders from thence I past into Germany and from thence to France whilst warre was there waged with the Hughenots being afterwards invited by the commotions of Italy which were great in Piemont and in the Ualceline I returned into Lombardy where I stayed till such time as the Plague being ceased and the warrs of Mantoa ended I had a minde to returne againe for Germany where I tarryed a long time with Walesteime being afterwards inforced to returne to mine owne country by reason of my fathers death which happened unto him in his returne from the government of Candia where having stayed some few dayes I had a minde tho see the King of Sweeds Army which bore so great fame whereupon I past the Alpes againe and spent about a yeare in those armyes under Marishall Horne and Duke Weymar All the time I was abroad and out of mine owne Country which was above the space of 14 yeares part whereof I spent in warres part in Princes Courts my indeavour was by the words and actions of other men to get the knowledge of Politique government and military observation upon all occasions at all times and in all places I weighed the reasons why men did rather thus then thus I diligently applyed my selfe to spy into the negotiations of Officers the difficulties of managing affaires and the issues or conclusions of treaties I thought it advantagious to observe the condition of Cheeftaines the councells of wisemen the conceptions of the Common people the opinions of the Nobility and the interests of great men I fixt mine eye upon the successe of undertakings upon the nature of Countryes the variety of manners the importancy of scituations and strong holds the considerablenesse of rivers the difficulty of passages the experience of Souldiers upon time place and causes and kept distinct notes of those things for my better memorys sake in the best manner I was able and as I was befriended by time wherein some times I was streightned sometimes had sufficient oportunity These rough draughts of mine coming to the sight of some of my friends afforded them occasion to perswade mee or to say better to constraine mee to print them promising me that if they could not be admitted into the narrow path of praise they would at least passe the gate of gratitude whether he sometimes gets who without pretence of merit doth by the sincerity of his will make amends for the faultinesse of his effects I confesse this their invitation seemed a dreame to me for to carry the splendid tables which in these dayes are so imbellished a dish ungarnished with the amber of invention and wanting the flowery garlands of stile is no better then to nauciate the guests But these my friends perswading me that men doe differ in their tasts that some like better what is tarte and sharpe than what is sweete and that the greediest understandings doe oft-times distaste meats too artificially cooked they did perswade me into this errour I say errour for if whosoever differs from the generall custome goes astray I who write my beard not being gray and without Horace his nine yeares rule shall peradventure be blamed for putting moderne actions to the presse written by a young head They freed mee also of this feare telling me that Horace was a Poet and that he spake of Poems Orations and other quaint composures not of History since that she which ought alwayes to be the picture of truth and without the attendants or imbellishments of witt is alwayes one and the same when the draught is made by the life and is much more comely naked then when cloathed by invented adornments drawne from time And they added hereunto that those who writt things which were acted many ages agoe doe it for that there being none to oversee them they may boldly tell some untruthes without feare of reprehension and if they compose with their hand upon the planke and their foot in the ditch they doe it least they become spectators to the anatomies of their owne workes I have therefore yeilded to slip yet but with one foote For though I have written all the warres of Bohemia France and Italy which have fallen out in my time I publish onely the successe of things from the moving of the King of Sweedes forces to the taking of Turin And have done this for that I thinke if what hath hapned in these eleaven yeares and which peradventure will be fullest of curiosity please not my former discourses will be lesse taking so as I may spare the labour which would be troublesome to me and tedious to the Reader Those actions where I was an eye witnesse are pictures drawne by the life that which I have received from the relation of others is a copy If such be not truely drawne the fault lyeth not in me who have copyed things as they have been discribed to me but in those who related them unto me It can hardly be made good that Copyes drawne from others hands conteyne in them a perfect forme for many overcome by passion or overswayed by affection speake as they would have it be Nor doth it avayle that things doe come from or be reported by great personages or well reputed Ministers of State for lyes like flyes flocke every where and where they most smell the sweete of curiosity there they take their station I have notwithstanding indeavoured to have the relations of what hath hapned from who have been present in the actions but not from every one that hath been so for many although
Rivers as arâ herein spoken of Tyllies proceedings to oppose the King His Counsells Resolutions and Considerations The Siege Taking and Dissolution of Magdeburg THE desire of glory did more and more encrease in the heart of Gustavus Adolphus King of Swethland a Prince of a vast Spirit after the many yeares Warre which by him was managed against the Crowne of Poland in which he purchased great Fame unto himselfe amongst those People but if his body were then unexercised his minde was not so which busied about high Designes did cheerefully covet to wage Warre against the House of Austria in Germany a Kingdome not onely divided by the dissonancy of Religion but exasperated by the new Government of the Austrian Officers of State who after the Peace made at Lubec though they seemed to have received some sort of reliefe by the Disbanding of Eighteene Thousand of Walestein's Souldiers which was done by the command of Caesar and at the Peoples intreaties yet notwithstanding there being great store of Forces remaining under the said Walestein and those dispersed through every Province with an unwonted forme of Government though feare kept the hatred and suffering of the Subjects concealed yet did not they as likewise the Princes cease to cast about how they might withdraw themselves from that yoake the Cruelties whereof they could not endure But the greater their Conceptions were the greater Consideration did they require which made the King for the present forbeare to act his Resolves and though by Walesteins aforesaid disbanding and the Polachs alike disbanding the German Forces he had furnish't himselfe with the best Souldiers of all those Troops and though he were fully informed of the condition strengths and inclinations of his neighbouring Potentates having himselfe in Person not many yeares before gone unknowne to search out the estate of Germany and other Provinces that he might discover how people stood affected and of what strength the Princes and Haunce Townes were yet he knew it was not yet time to take up those unripe resolutions which being unadvisedly undertaken by the Prince Elector Palatine by the King of Denmarke and others had not brought forth that good effect which doubtlesse was by many expected being made more cautious by the said examples though his desire painted forth these difficulties as slight ones and his hopes upheld by apparent grounds egg'd him on to this enterprise yet not suffering himselfe to be led by these affections out of the road of reason but moderating the ardency of his Genius by the remembrance of past errours he kept his Name and Fame as it were cancell'd out of the Germans memory But if the Fire of this Princes desires lay for some time wrapt up under the ashes of patience and simulation insomuch as there remained not the least suspition of him it is no wonder if afterward unexpectedly breaking forth and laying hold on the fittest occasions it were able to rekindle the inconstancy of those Provinces who under a feigned fidelity lived ill satisfied with the Austrian government for most part of the people remembring the liberty they had enjoyed and not able to tollerate the command and subjection of Roman Catholiques and more particularly of such as were strangers coveted nothing more then such like novelties The King this meane while held good Intelligence with diverse Officers and principall Protestants of Germany by whom hee was not onely faithfully advertised of the chiefe proceedings of the Imperialists but by frequent solicitations much importuned to the undertaking The King was likewise much troubled at any longer delay For his inclination leading him to Warre he could not content himselfe with peace but well weighing afterwards that to carrie his weake Forces into a Kingdome commanded by the Forces of Ferdinand the second which had been in so many actions victorious and which were all united under the Command of Albertus Walestein Duke of Fridland a Subject of high esteem beloved by the Souldiers feared by all the States and Princes of the Empire was almost an evident danger to give against the same Rocks upon which those had suffered ship-wrack which not long before contemning the Austrian Fortune had made the same Voyage banishing therefore from his breast all the incitations of his owne beliefe and laying aside the Cousnells and Invitations of those who were impatient of his delay he forbore to declare himselfe as yet Humane Resolutions varying with the times hee had afterwards this into particular consideration that not onely the Protestant Princes and people but the very Roman Catholiques were exasperated and fill'd with jealousie of the Emperours excessive greatnesse occasioned through Walesteines haughtinesse who thought by the Command at that time of more then a hundred Thousand foot and thirty Thousand Horse of divers Nations dispersed over all Germany he kept the Majesty of Caesar in reverence his Subjects in their obedience his Tributaries in their devotion and Strangers in feare yet treated he the Princes of Germany indifferently not as free Princes but as Subjects whereupon for that the excessive authority of private men and over-much greatnesse of Neighbouring Potentates is never liked by great ones the Electors which pretend to keep the Imperiall Condition within its limits could not suffer either the burthen they lay under upon this so just an occasion nor that so many souldiers should be maintained in Germany in the time of peace to the peoples so great grievance nor that the Throne of Caesar should be raised so high they therefore privately sought out all opportune meanes how they might unarme him take from the Empire such a support which if it had been made good many are of an opinion the King had come no further then Pomerania Walestein certified of these grievances and incens'd thereat gave not over his Imperious manner of treating and threatning But crying out the Emperour was betrayd and that the chiefest Jewell in Caesars Crowne was taken away onely to put him downe he justly fore-told the succeeding Calamities By this meanes discovery was made that this Commander was highly distasted and it was further foreseen that the reputation which those Forces had acquired by the Valour of Walestein being lessened notable prejudice was thereby betokened to the Caesarian Crowne The King likewise saw that by the Counsells of some Italian and Spanish Ministers of State chiefely by the advice of Caesar Duke of Vastella then Embassadour from the King of Spaine to the Emperour assisted to that purpose by Villany the Spanish Resident sent thither to moderate the greatnesse of Walesteines expeditions the Forces were divided part of them being sent into Lombardy under the Command of Count Rambaldo de Colalto who being desirous of such an employment was a meanes to Caesar that Walestein formerly declared Generall in Italy should be invested with the Dukedom of Mechelburg for that if that could be effected Walesteine had promised him hee would refuse the Command in Italy and procure the imployment for him
prejudiciall to his dominion but to the whole interest of the Protestants but the King willing to let the Electour see how ill he had beene advised whilst being able to releive Magdeburg by the preservation whereof his estate would have likewise been secure and whilst he was intreated by him the King to afford him passage and to joyne with him he had denyed to do so and had sent backe the messenger with resolutions no wayes profitable did coolly answer Harnem That his Master had himselfe drawne the warre upon him by having slighted his Counsell or rather for having refused what was by him propounded That his highnesse had some Counsellors about him that were Spaniolised that he needed not poynt out unto him whither the Austrian Monarchy tended for it was apparently seen by former examples that having supprest the liberty of the Hauns townes and the Princes of the Empire he aimed meerly at the Command over all Europe that he knew not how to helpe him for that his designe was to lead his forces elsewhere and that he was very much troubled at this accident which had befallen the Duke Harnem answered with words drawne from the inmost of his heart and which were accompanied with some teares that fell from his eyes that his Majesty as a wise and curteous Prince as a gracious propagator of the faith and as the defender of German liberty ought to forget any thing the Elector had done amisse which had beene occasioned through feare and bad Counsell not out of any diffidence he had of his Majesties friendship to the which he should forever acknowledge himselfe oblieged That Princes are oft times blinded by their interest of state and oft times so hoodwinckt as that they could not refuse the counsels of their Ministers that the wellfare of the publique ought to be preferred before what ever private respect that a Prince ought to forget such things wherein they have not received satisfaction when the doing so redounds to their advantage that reason of state is alwayes furnish't with so choice a disguise as in an instant it can turne the most threatning browes of an enemy into the pleasing countenance of a friend and as soone change the cleer aspect of a favourite into a troubled face The King who did indeed desire nothing more then this though he seemed to feigne the contrary not objecting any thing to these his expressions answered That he would be contented to come aid the Elector upon condition that for his better caution and security hee might have the Fort of Wittenberg delivered up into his hands which is a very strong hold seated upon the Elb in a most pleasant Country begirt with Parrapits and bastions of the latest edition well peopled and a place of great Importance standing between Lusatia and the Bishopricke of Hall as if it were the Center of those two Provinces the key which opens and shuts the way into Saxony That he might receive money for two payments of his Army and that his excellencies eldest sonne might be sent to him and kept by him as an hostage of his fidelity Harnem by speedy post acquainted his Master with these answers whose state was now in great confusion and feare and who returned as speedy answer to the King That not onely Wittenberg but his whole state was at his Command that the money for the Army should forthwith be disbursed and that he himselfe together with his sonne would hasten to come and serve him These Articles being signed by the King and by Harnem in behalfe of the Elector they agreed upon a time of meeting likewise with the Elector of Brandenburg and other confederate Princes The Duke having brought his men to Torgaw between Wittenberg and Dresda upon the Elb and mustering them there he found them to be 16000. fighting men allowing thereunto some of the Country Troops with 28 peeces of Cannon and a very well furnished baggadge hee marched towards Wittenberg where the King appointed to meet him by the first of September Tilly this meane time had invested the wals of Leypzik on divers sides striking feare into the Citizens thereof who were men not verst in warre but for the most part brought up in merchandising insomuch as they saw they could not resist the strong batteries which beat downe their towers on all sides and did presage unto them the unlucky example of Magdeburg They therefore sent forth deputies to speake with Tilly who concluded that the City should be surrendred on Condition that they might enjoy their liberty of Conscience that the Saxon Garrison should march out with their weapons and baggadge and that the City should bee burthened with nothing else but the payment of 200000 Dollers in prosecution whereof on the sixth of September Tilly made his entrance into the Town with the great applause of the Roman Catholique Army Leypzik is seated in a large Champion between the Elb and the Sall watered by the River Elster and the River Pleis which falling into Elster under the very walls of the Towne loses its name This place being seated betwixt the utmost parts of upper Saxony and Misnia and almost in the very heart of Germany is a place of much Traffique aswell in respect of the great concourse of people as of the rich merchandise by reason of the many Faires that are there kept but her fortifications are imperfect and after the ancient manner This meane while the Kings Army and the Electors being joyned and the King seeing himselfe now growne to sufficient strength to give him battell in the field upon which the Totall of this contention did consist he raised his Tents from about Wittenberg on the fourth of September past over the Elb and with speedy march tooke his way towards Leypzik that he might relieve the City but hearing by the way that the Letters written by the Elector to the chiefe Magistrate of the Towne wherein he acquainted him of his being joyned with the King and of the speedy reliefe they were bringing exhorting him in the meane while stoutly to defend the Towne were intercepted by the Imperialists and that now the City was in the power of the Romanists he stayed in the Fields about Bitterfelt and Dieben Towns between the Elb and the River Tena aswell to expect fresh Troops of Souldiers as to informe himselfe better of the Enemies condition that he might betake himselfe to the best resolution Tilly on the other side advertised of the Swedes being joyned with Saxony was much incensed against the Elector and desirous to revenge himselfe for the injury received encouraged by the confidence he had in his Souldiers valour who were acquainted with nothing but victory though he might better have effected his designes by waiting for Aldringer who was not farre off yet not able to appease himselfe he marched out of Leypzik drew his Army into the Fields put it into Battell-array placed his Artillery in the most advantagious places fortified passages
and the eminency of danger got upon a fresh horse and resolving rather to dye then to be the spectator of so many mens miseries and of this blemish to all those victories which had immortalized him used all the means he could to stay his men and with his owne hand slew many of them that ran away the like did Popenheime who so couragiously behaved himselfe as through his heat of bloud not sensible of the weaknesse his wounds had caused in him he with his sword forced backe the fugitives and did for some little time keep the remainder of their Troops together but the feare of the enemy prevailing more with them then the threates and blows of their own Commanders it was impossible to rally them again Wherefore Tilly being wounded in the arme with a Pistoll-shot and having his head cut with a sword of one of the enemies with whom aged as he was he more then once had with his sword in hand incountred and knowing that there was no more resisting of the Swedes fury who slew all they met with hee with those few who yet he found about him took his way towards Fulda and recovered the territories of that Prince Popenheime having seven wounds upon him was stript by the Swedes and left for dead in the field amongst the dead bodyes from whence by the helpe of a country-man he was the next morning carryed to Hall and from thence to Fulda to be cured In this dayes battaile about 10000. Imperialists were slain wounded and taken prisoners many of which were slaine by the country people who in their flight slew as many of them with their clubs as they met withall Those of the better sort that perished here of the Emperors side were the Duke of Holestanie the Colonels Bangert and Blancart the Baron Schamburg with many Captaines and other Officers The King found 1000. of his men missing and the Electour of Saxony 4000. of his The Battaile being ended the King commanded a retreat to be founded to recall such Troopes as disorderly followed the flying enemy and all of them being returned to their Colours he being accompanied by the Elector and other Princes and the heads of his Army did in a stately manner and mounted on a pasing horse visit all his squadrons and thanked them all for their valiant behaviour they all cryed out long live the King and nothing was heard but vollies of Muskets and the going off of Cannons Having afterwards taken requisite order for the solemnization of this victory and giving his Souldiers leave to retire into their quarters and refresh themselves for what they had that day suffered hee went to his owne lodging where after having a good while discoursed with the Duke of Saxony of what advantage would by this victory redound to all the Protestant Princes he sate downe at Table where certainly his meat was very pleasing unto him his discourse being onely that he thought no greater contentment could be then for a Generall to see himselfe victorious over an enemies army The news of this victory being speedily brought to the Emperors Court did much astonish the Austrians and as great was their confusion as was the consequence of their losse especially since it came so unexpectedly upon them who relying too much upon their former victories and present power thought they had led fortune in a string but within a few dayes after they were much more cast downe and waving upon a sea of thoughts their hopes were ready to suffer shipwrack for it was wispered in the Court and other places that besides the prejudice received by this dayes losse 't was added that the Duke of Bavaria much considering the Swedes victories and listning to the protestations made unto him by the King it was not without reason feared that there had beene some overtuâes of agreement between these by the mediation of the King of France who said that to that purpose he had obtained from the Swedes a cessation of Armes for some dayes and that this intelligence betweene Bavaria and the Swedes was held notwithstanding that Tilly by men drawne out of Garrisons by Focaries men raised in Bavaria and âwabenland and by Aldringers forces returned from Italy had gotten new strength whereby the Romanists first fears were a little lessned This caused much jealousie amongst the Imperialists and much suspition and diffidence grew hereupon amongst them occasioned through the nicety of the interest of Princes to whom shadows seem substances Aldringer believing though injuriously that the Electour as Princes use to doe should side with the party whereby his territories might bee more secured resolved not to joyne with Bavaria feigning to returne to winter himselfe and to place himselfe in the defence of Moravia and Bohemia but before he did this he with specious words exhorted his Commanders Souldiers not to forgoe their loyalty thus the Army being little lesse then in confusion the Caesarian Souldiers retiring where their Leaders were most concerned and all things out of order many consultations were held in the Emperors Court wherin each Counsellor advising as they were most concerned in their affections self interest their resolutions grew more and more confused Where there are many Counsellours many are the counsels that are given and the diversitie of nations makes men differ in their interest The Spaniards advised that Ferdinando King of Hungary the Emperors sonne should march into the field whose authority they said would draw many of the Nobility out of their nests of idlenesse and make many private men apply themselves to raise new forces of which there was then great need besides it would be a meanes to winne the young King to better esteem with his father and to ingratiate himselfe with him they further said that the Majesty and presence of a Prince was of much availment in an Army that Counsels were more readily had and the results thereof were the more opportune when the authority is supreme in the Commander and that that was a businesse of great importance in the Military art that the remainder of those Forces on which the publique hope and safety did depend ought not to be trusted to the Command of a private man who either drawne over by the enemy stir'd up by the unquietnesse of ambition moved by his owne particuler interest or counselled by his passions might be able to give the Law to his Lord and master But the Dutch suspected that this might be but cunning carryed by ambition which covets command for they imagined the Spaniards named the King to this imployment not so much for the publique good as for their owne particular intents for if the King should have gon into the field they would have had a stroake in his Counsels being already admitted into the Court under pretence of serving the Queene sister to King Philip and so by little and little getting sooting in places of command they might become arbitrators of the Interests and of the governing the
Imperiall Crowne they therefore differd from the others in opinion alleadging that great provisions were to be made for a Kings setting out aswell for what belonged to the decency of his person as to the maintenance of a King-like Army That the treasury was well exhausted by past expences that the ancient reputation in Armes of an Austrian King ought not to be matched with a new fierce and fortunate enemy That the peoples hopes would be much thrown down by any the least prejudice that might incurre unto him and although these considerations were qualified by the Spaniard who offered great sums of mony these notwithstanding with all the Art their owne interests could infuse into them which was to be commanded by one of their owne nation propounded Albertus Walesteine Duke of Fridland in whom there was great reason to hope well they made it appeare that to obviate the eminent danger at the present no man was fitter to take upon him the command of the Army then he who had formerly to their advantage exercised the same place and that this their proposition was grounded upon the surer foundation for that he had heaped up so much riches by his past victories as no man was fitter then he to assist in the new levyes of men and in providing all things requisite for the Army Necessity which out-weighs reason drew the Spaniards to yield unto the Dutchmen who overcome by what had been said and not having yet got good footing in Germany they came over to their opinion the execution whereof was presently resolved upon But Walestein who was then at Zenam in Moravia ten leagues from Vienna and was gone thither by reason of the Saxons Armies arrivall in Bohemia was not minded to come unto the Court for that he expected to be received and treated as a soveraigne Prince which he arrogated to himselfe by vertue of his title of Duke of Michelberg for which the tearm of highnesse was given him The Count of Verdemberg was first sent to acquaint him with this Election and afterwards the Baron of Questemberg and the Prince of Echenberg though he were sicke of the gout three of the Emperours prime Counsellours and Walesteines great friends who dexterously overcomming an apparence of deniall made by him in respect of the great griefe of soule he suffered for being formerly turned out of the same charge they by their flatteries the true sauce to the bitternesse of passion did so sweeten his distaste that at last he yielded He resolved notwithstanding as then not to receive such imployment for longer then foure moneths though these his friends used their best eloquence to perswade him to accept of this command absolutely without any such restriction The opinions of men concerning this were various some thought he did it that he might not hazard his honour and reputation in times of so great calamity and for that he had to doe with a victorious and fortunate King others because he would not oblige himself to overcome difficulties which leaned upon impossibilites others thought this was but cunning for that he being exceeding vainglorious desired the rather to accept of this command upon condition that so he might not onely oblige the Emperour but also the King of Spaine by both whose Majesties he desired to be intreated to accept of that which he underhand did mainly indeavour to have conferred upon him not foreseeing the slipperinesse and danger of the path his ambition lead him unto drunke with an over-weaning estimation of himselfe neither remembring that Princes will have their servants to be obedient and not masters Having accepted the command of this Army hee sent for all the Colonels aswell those who kept their places as those who had been casheered and for that affability is a great advantage to reputation hee received them all with a pleasing countenance as prouder Princes use to doe when they have need of Souldiers To those that had but onely the title he gave a sutable command inviting them with faire and specious words to lay out what they had gotten in former warres and promising great things unto them and helped such as he knew to be needy with monies where-with to raise men Hee then cheered them up with the undoubted hopes of profit and honour He with big and grave words canonized their precedent actions neither could he keep himselfe from using some exaggerations against them who had been the originall of the Empires ruine he moreover informed them that the present adversity ought not to be of force enough to distemper the valour of those whose resolution stood in no need of comfort That this great ship of the Empire had been agitated by tempest and yet by wise goverment had escaped running upon the Rockes He remembred them of their past victories bad them be confident of the like againe and told them how he would reward those that should be faithfull unto him Hee afterwards gave in charge to the Colonels and Captaines who were uncasheered that they should compleat their Companies and knowing that those who were verst known among the people and in good esteem amongst them have better meanes to raise men then those who are novices in warre he underwrit their Patents for more Companies allowing some fewer some more as hee found them capable of imployment he comforted them all with gracious speeches which gave so much the more contentment because formerly his words were wont to be composed of pride and to intimate servitude he afterwards sealed up all he had to say with civill intreaties that they would upon this emergency give proofe of that worth and ingenuity which kept in continuall exercise should not apply it selfe to be carryed to victories by the prosperous windes of fortune but by cutting through the waves of difficulty amidst the rocks of adversity assisted therein by the sounding line of wisedome He promised them likewise Imprest monyes and good winter quarters from which Commanders reape no little advantage since that the peoples daily contributions to the Souldier falling into the hands of the Officers are not onely alienated from their full number but in a good part from the remaining Souldiers who being permitted to run over the Countrey and goe a free-booting care not much for the Contributions and hence it is that afterwards the Souldiers growing licentious treat the good Subjects no otherwise then they would doe the enemy Estimation which is the daughter either of feare or love imprinted these words of Walesteins in the hearts of those that heard them for many of them possessing goods and lands purchased in the Empire and in Bohemia during the late Rebellion forgot not that it concerned them in their owne particuler to doe what they were able aswell to maintaine what they already had as to better their estates and conditions every one betook himselfe therefore to the worke and much valuing his favour who where he wanted not in affection was not sparing in greatnesse and liberality they
forbore not to spend part of what they had gotten which being ventur'd upon the banke of Plunder was to bring them in double advantage Count Merodes went into Flanders to solicite the Spaniards to raise an Army to oppose Bawdis the Swedes Generall and William Landgrave of Hesse Isolani went into Croatia and Hungary to raise horse and that he might the better intend the service he was honoured with the title of Generall of the Nation all the rest of the Commanders that had Commissions to raise men went some into Moravia some into Slecia Austria Stiria Carinthia and other Provinces where they understood men were least imployed and were given to warres so as every where the Drums were heard to beat the Trumpets to sound and monyes were disburst whereby according to custome the Emperors health being cheerfully drunke and every one providing himselfe with good armes and other acoutrements the people seemed by their discourse to presage the ruine of the Swedes The greatest part of the horse wanted Curasses by the losse of Armes in the late routes and particularly in the battaile of Leypzik where they were either left in the field with their dead owners or elswhere thrown away by such as fled there being therefore great want of armes and artificers some great men of Italy were by Walesteine sent into Lombardi to make a considerable provision of them and other Colonels sent Officers of their owne to the like purpose sparing no money in this behalfe not caring for expence for the Generals intention was to come into the field not onely rich in fame but furnished with whatsoever was requisite to a glorious Army continuing therefore his diligence he treated with the King of Poland to have men from that nation and in this he imployed his Cosen-german Tersica for they had each of them married a daughter of Charles of Arrach the Emperours chiefe Counsellour This man being one of the richest Gentlemen in all Bohemia was not much troubled to finde money to raise 3000. Horse and 4000. Foot of sundry nations Walsteine after this made the Counts Galasse Mansfeild Aldringer and Montecucully Generalls of the Artillery all of them chiefe Commanders of the Army to these he recommended the care of recruting their old companies and the raising of new ones which he allotted unto them and they overcome with the Generals gratitude did their utmost to obey him He moreover appointed eight Serjeant Majors Generals of the Army who have the command over the rest of the Colonels and whose place is to order the Army in the day of Battaile and to these he gave new Commissions to raise men They for the honour they had received and that they might preserve their Generals good will which was ambitiously coveted by all little waying the difficulty of raising men in dispeopled Provinces and full of troubles where the poorest companion could be had under 25. Dollers He gave Commissions to any one that desired imployment and disburst much money by the way of loane that the whole might be made up neither did he make any distinction as then of any that proffered their service for holding it the best counsell that can be given to a Prince who is desirous to inlarge his dominions and to secure himselfe in the faith of his friends and from the injuries of his adversaries to have copious Armies that so he might do that in some moneths which otherwise would require some yeares to effect his intention was to gather together great quantities of armed men who if they should afterwards want experienced Commanders he wanted not old Captaines under whose Colours he might put these new men and casheer those that were uncapable of such imployment before he was to march against the enemy and to this purpose he had wont to say if the Emperour will raise an Army of 30000. Souldiers the Elector of Saxony or some other Prince by the assistance of friends will doe the like that to fight with equall forces was to have the victory to be decided by fortune and not to secure ones owne selfe by power that time would be lost their Territories would be oppressed the subject would be weakened by keeping forces in their own Country businesse would be precipitated and finally peace would ensue the end whereof would be misery and ruine to the vassals that a numerous Army lords it over the fields goes whither it lists meets with no obstacle and being able to scoure the Country at pleasure loses not Contribution nor the meanes to maintaine it selfe and though this be contrary to some experience where a few men have been known to beat a great many he said that this little number must be pick't out of a gallant and well reputed nation and that the execution was easie when the Commander in chiefe had wonne the name of generous and magnanimous towards his Souldiers He would not forbeare to let fall in his discourses that the Imperiall Crowne would be but weake if it were not secured by 100000. Souldiers kept continually in pay for the Empire being a body of many members dissonant in Religion it fals out that by the liberty which many Cities professe and by the power of the Electors and other Princes the Caesarian authority being by them lessened sickens and wanting forces languishes as if Crusht to death by her owne fewdatories in briefe he so handsomely chid the errors of late successes as all such as were dejected by reason of their past terrors were seene suddainly to be clad with new hopes Hee moreover sent expresses to Charles Duke of Lorrayne as well to keep him in good correspondency with the Emperour as to perswade him to raise men in the assistance of the common interest and that he would permit the Austrian officers to raise men in his Country This Prince being of high thoughts and inclyning to warre a lover of novelty counselled by that vivacity which sparkles in the hearts of sprightly Princes and seconded by advice of others which useth not to differ from the inclination and genious of the Master did not onely yield to Walesteines request but declared that he would hazard his life and fortune with him arming and behaving himselfe as the chiefe of this league of which 't is said he aspired to be Generall this was the first beginning of the jealousies between him and France and the reason why he drew upon him the enmity of the King of Sweden These affaires past not without some knowledge of the Queene mother of France mother to the most Christian King and to the Duke of Orleans for at this instant a gentleman of hers came to Zenam who having had some discourse with Walesteine was dismist with appearances that he was well apaid with his negotiation And the Austrians building much upon the troubles of France whose union did not a little disturbe their designes they more seriously applyed themselves to invent meanes and wayes how to hinder the increase of that flourishing Kingdome
the Danube resolved to leade his Forces towards the Rheine for when he should have made himselfe Master of the passages thereof he should not only free himselfe from feare of being diverted on that side which he might expect to be by the Spaniards joyned with the Duke of Lorayne and by the Forces of the Electors and other Ecclesiasticall Princes but he should open the way to the French succours whereof he had then large and ample promises he then left some of his Forces in Franconia under the Command of Gustavus Horne to watch the proceedings of the Imperialists and he with the rest of his Army went along the Maine towards Stenheine and marched afterwards from thence with Eight Regiments of Horse towards Hannaw a place surprized a little before through intelligence had with Collonell Tuball he having survayed the Countrey turned on the left hand and with some Troops of Dragoons tooke Offenbeck He then knew it would be no hard matter to take Franckfort a great and faire City and of great trading by reason of Marts or Faires by the great concurrence whereunto of all Nations it is much famed This Towne is pleasantly situated upon the River Mayne in Franconia which River after a course of some thirty miles fals into the Rhene just over against Mentz and by the commodiousnesse of Navigation doth more encrease Traffique It is begirt with Walls and Ditches after the ancient way in no very exact manner the King exhorted the Citizens thereof not to refuse the Propositions of agreement which were offered for as the present conjuncture of time was he could do no lesse then promise safety to the City and secure unto them their Religion but they loath to forgoe their Neutrality speedily dispatched two Deputies to the King to obtaine leave to continue Neuters putting him in mind of the Oath they had taken to the Emperour and of the losse they were to undergo by reason of their Marts and Merchandizing and other good reasons which at another time had not deserved punishment For though this was not numbred amongst the Hauns Townes of Germany yet the greatest part of the Inhabitants were Roman Catholiques and consequently did adhere to the Imperialists so as though they pretend Neutrality they would not have let slip any occasion wherby they might have prejudiced the Swedes as they are used to doe who seem to be what indeed they are not nothing therfore came of this Treaty which whilst they were in discourse of the King made his army advance and before they had ended all they had to say the City might see the Swedish Horse close by their Gates and their Foot in readinesse to set upon it by force if they would not condescend to what was offered them they were therefore enforced least they might meet with the reward of obstinacy courteously to quit that which they could not without harme to themselves gain-say they therefore submitted themselves unto the King and on the seventeenth of November they opened their Gates and gave unto him as an hostage of their fidelity the Burrough of Saxemhausen placed on the head of the Bridge on this side the River over against the City fortified with Bulwarkes and Rampiers where leaving Colonell Vitzhem Governour and six hundred Foot he without delay marched through the City with his Army in good order and that very night came before Hoest not far from Franckfort belonging to the Elector of Mentz The Garrison whereof preparing for defence and seeming with some bodies of shot to be resolute to hold the King play for some time finding at last that they could not shun either being sackt or making some prejudiciall condition they opened their Gates and the most part of the Garrison seeing that Fortune had forsaken their former Masters betooke themselves to the Service of the Swedes When Fortune singles such encounters as happily present themselves ought not to be let slip this place being therefore taken the King gave order that Kenigsteine should presently be set upon which is seated upon a passage of great importance and is of considerable strength so as it commands all the adjacent Country He also sent part of his Forces before Kockein and Vlersheime upon the Maine that they might throw over a Bridge to facilitate more Conquests Having given these orders and seene the Batteries levelled against the Walls of Vlersheime with the taking whereof he was very well pleased for this being neare the Rhene upon the Maine on the side of Mentz freed him from the troubles which the Garrison thereof might occasion him and freeing the Countrey on this side Rhene and thereby securing himselfe behinde he might without any manner of feare goe to new undertakings he built a Bridge of Boates that he might passe his Army and provisions to and again at his pleasure he returned to Franckfort to give audience to certaine Ambassadours and to treat with some great men about the ordering of affaires for the better facilitating the next yeares undertakings but he could not stay there above sixe daies for having received advertisement how that divers Troopes of Spaniards and Flemings raised in Lusemberg were marching apace towards the Palatinate to recruite the Garrisons of Mentz Wormes Franchendall Heidelberg and other Townes in those parts as yet held by the Imperialists he broake off his Treaties of Negotiation and returning speedily to his Army he marched along the Rheine and by the meanes of a Guide who led him a way not much frequented he with the greatest part of his Army which had now done with Vlersheim having at the end of eight daies taken it upon composition went to Ringaw the Country where the best Renish Wines are made he surprized a great Body of Spaniards and Burgonians who were quartered in Walfe putting most of them to the Sword which infused such feare into the Garrisons of Rodesheim and Ernsfeilt Walled Townes neare Mentz but of no great moment as that overcome with the apprehension of the Swedish Forces they opened their gates unto him parting afterwards from Ringaw he advanced so farre and so fast as that he faced Mentz upon the Rhene against the which he made some Cannon play rather by way of salute then with an intention of harme The channell of the River growing here very broad he resolved to repasse over the Mayne to tarry in Berghestrate and seeke out how he might passe over the Rhene there those parts being but slenderly guarded But the Spaniards foreseeing this had burnt and sunke all the Boates on that shoare which were fit to passe over the Swedes insomuch as the King found his labour was here little better then lost When a Dutch Souldier having as it oft fals out won into the friendship of a Fisherman of Gernsheime named Iohn Varter prevailed so farre with him by promise and profers of advantage as that by the helpe of another mariner of the same place they recovered some of the Boates that had been sunke and emptying
present affaires so as calling together his chiefe Councellours and the Prime Commanders of his Army and joyntly weighing the interests of their Forces there were some seconded in their opinion by Benard Waymar who persisted in their advise that they should turne their Forces to the utter subversion of the Roman Catholique Army they made good their opinions with these reasons That the field Forces being scattered Germany being a large and open Country the winning of Townes would be no hard matter which being weake in defence and abandoned by their Armies would strive rather to captivate the Kings good will by ready obedience than draw his anger upon them by their unwise pertinency that they should not do well to lose so much time in the taking in of places of small moment whilest the Enemy recruited and re-inforced his Army that the Austrians had no better friend then time that they had alwayes repaired their losses when either by cunning or otherwise they could fence themselves from the first violence that though the Emperours owne men and monies were well exhausted yet by the assistance of Spanish Gold and by recruites from Italy a Nation by experience knowne to be advantagious to Germany he might remit himselfe into his former condition that the Elector of Bavaria who was much concerned in the Austrians welfare wanted not a stocke of money and territories sufficient from whence to draw out Souldiers and regaine what he had lost And which was of greatest importance that the Generals place was conferred upon Walesteine who having gathered a mass of riches in the past warres being excessively ambitious of glory and great actions would not be failing in any thing that he knew might make him remarkable upon this occasion that they had the French on that side for friends who bringing their Forces upon their frontiers would hinder the Romanists from doing any thing prejudiciall to the Swedes that therefore they should leave off those machinations and rub the soare againe before it be healed But these reasons though they had much of influence upon all the Commanders and drew many of them to be of this opinion yet the King weighing them in the ballance of his wisedome was for his own interest sake inforced to oppose them saying That the Empire hung upon two strings the one composed of the selfe Austrian Forces the other of the Roman Catholique and Ecclesiasticall powers that they were to consider which of these two were to be tane away to overthrow this Chaos that he granted the reasons concerning the Spanish Gold Bavaria and Walesteine were very valid but that they were not to throw behinde their backes but rather intentively to looke upon the aid from Flanders the assistance of the Electors and Ecclesiastickes and of the Duke of Lorayne who being desirous of warre could not hereafter expect a better occasion then this to put himselfe in Armes that these men though they were new and not accustomed to warre yet were they so inheartened by their Princes courage and hope of good successe as seeing us retire they would resume the more courage and cause unto us such prejudice as usually is received from Enemies strengthened by strong impressions that it was requisite to extinguish the fire which increasing would not be so easily supprest before they should carry the Cumbustion elsewhere that the Spanish succours from Flanders was more considerable then from Italy for that compleat Arming would be found hard in Italy A Kingdome impoverished in people and the numbers whereof would be much lessened before they should passe over the Mountaines for that the rigid Climate of Germany and the Germans severe manner of lying in the field did not well agree with that Nation nurc'd up in the delights of Peace that for their money they might have men enow in the Low-Countryes that he knew the Treasury and Forces of the Elector of Bavaria was very considerable but that on the other side he knew he was not so lavish in laying out his monies nor his men so ready to take up Armes that Walesteine was a humerous Foole a fantasticall braine fit for Comedies reverenced for his wealth and fortune not for his wisedome and proper valour that he was envied by many a corrivall with Bavaria and not well thought of by the discreet Don for what concerned their hopes upon the French it was to be granted it would be advantagious to them if Princes were not ambitious of inlarging their dominions But since France was knowne to be no lesse intent to this then whatsoever other Kingdome he could not promise himselfe that the French would invert the proceedings of the Duke of Loraine and of the Ecclesiasticks against the Swedes but rather that leading their Forces upon their Frontiers and entring either as protectors of the one or arbitrators of the other he foresaw they would rather put in for themselves through the disagreement of the Swedes and Imperialists then assist the Protestants in their proceedings moreover that they ought to feare least if they once should get footing here they should following the policy of Princes who are friends as long as it makes for their owne good moderate the greatnesse of others and dissolve the League at any time when they should see the Swedes power grow to an excessive greatnesse Tod and Tuball would be sufficient to hold Tiffenbech and Ghetz play in Slesia that the Elector of Saxony being entred into Bohemia it would be no hard matter to disturbe Walesteines designes and that Bannier was sufficient to watch over Bavarias wayes that therefore they ought to secure themselves on this side for what was on their backs which being done the victory on the other side would easily be affected These reasons alleadged by the King made the Commanders aware that Councels then succeed best when they proceed from the hidden reasons of interests and that no resolution ought to be built upon the faire shewes of Princes the ground-worke of their demonstrations not being composed of any sound materials but coloured over as best seemes pleasing to the eye of the present conjuncture All of them therefore forgoing their first opinions they unanimously condescended to the King who seeing what need they had of a good Sanctuary whereunto upon any ill successe they might safely retreate as likewise how necessary it was to fence Franconia after he had diligently suryeyed all the nighbouring situations could find none more commodious then that Angle which is placed betwixt the Rhene and that part of the Mayne which is over against Mentz on the side of the Palatinate he therefore made a designe be there drawne in his owne presence of a Fort consisting of seven Royall Bulwarkes a Seat so availeable as lying in the midst between the State of Mentz and the Palatinate upon the sides of two Navigable Rivers it might be said to be the Key which opens and shuts the entrance and outgoing on both sides of the Rhene whereby he might continually
bridle the Inhabitants aswell of the one as of the other circle moreover besides the securing of what he had already wonne there was hereby a way opened to ends not yet knowne He gave it the name of Gustavemborg though through the Souldiers playing upon the Roman Catholiques it came to be called the Priests scourge alleadging thereby that being seated in the sight of Mentz and in the very midst of the Electorate it was fit to keep the neighbouring Prelates in obedience and under the yoake of the Swedish Forces Having left order for the perfecting of this Fabricke and for the preservation of Mentz he with his Army marched in Ianuary against Spier the Magistry whereof endeavoured though in vaine to keep Newters for the King having declared himselfe to be an Enemy to that name this Towne accorded as did likewise Wormes Landaw and Weissenburg Cities beyond the Rhen in the lower Palatinate beguiât only with ancient walls these submitted themselves unto the King quartered some of the Swedish Regiments and parted with some monies to free themselves from the insolency of the souldiers Franckendal and Heidelberg Townes well provided with men victuals and Fortifications were the only two places that held out against the King For though they were at this time set upon with much violence they undauntedly defended themselves and rendred the attempts of the Enemy vaine who held it not fit to lose time before such Forts since they were Masters of the Field and consequently might over-run whole Provinces and hinder the new recruiting of the Enemyes Army Franckendal lyes in an open Countrey between Spier and Wormes surrounded with gallant Bulwarkes Ditches and Rampiers it was anciently the chiefe strength the Elector Palatine had but since the overthrow in Bohemia it was held by the Austrians Heidelberg is seated upon the Nâcker in the mouth of two Mountaines upon which the Palace and Castle stands and here the Count Palatine had wont to keep his residence before the Emperor bereft him of his state At the same time that the Swedish Forces meeting with lesse opposition did over-run the Countrey that lyes upon the Rhen and Franconia Popenheime having drawne out the greatest part of the Garrisons from the places upon the Wesser and out of the Countrey of Brounswyck they being knowne to be little available to the preservation of those places weake in situation and Fortification and having gathered together a Body of men to about 10000 Souldiers he recovered Barleben upon the Elb which made no great resistance from thence he passed towards Magdeburg to relieve the besieged for being beleaguerd by Bannier they were reduced to some necessity and herein his successe was good For Bannier understanding his approach and thinking the Romanists Army to be much greater then his withdrew himselfe aside to Kalbe upon the banks of Elb. Here he tooke up his Quarter in an advantagious Seat shunning to fight for the King having given generall directions to all his Commanders who were disjoyned from the Army that himselfe led that without great advantage and certainty of victory they should shun comming to a generall conflict he temporised betaking himselfe only to such enterprises as agreed with the Kings instructions whose ends was to keep the Imperialists Forces severed in sundry places that he might have the more freedome to make his desired Conquests and to beat the maine Body of the Roman Catholiques which when he should have done the members thereof would be of no use Pappenheim having thus raised the siege though he failed in some intentions he had of falling upon the Swedes Quarters who had withdrawne themselves further off entred Magdeburg and straightway sent his Van-guard towards Gomeren a place belonging to the jurisdiction of the Bishop thereof upon the Confines of Saxony but hee began no sooner to march then he was advertised that George Duke of Lunenburg a Protestant Prince and who adhered to the Swedes was drawing neere to Wolfenbuttell a place of great moment which made him thinke it requisite to turne his march thitherward for this Towne standing in the Center of the territories of Brounswyck and being strongly seated upon the River Alre being likewise the place of refuge for the Imperialists and the Arsenall of their Army by meanes whereof their Forces in those parts did wholly subsist if it should have fallen into the Swedes power either by holding intelligence or otherwise it would have been a great advantage to the Protestants Forces and a very great blow unto the Roman Catholiques hee therefore drew out the Garrison from Magdeburg and knowing it would be a difficult matter to maintaine it he slighted it breaking downe the Wals in sundry parts to the end it might not be of service to the Swedes hee advanced toward Sechenser and Wolfenbuttell about the end of Ianuary Bannier had newes hereof who being certified of truth that the Imperialists were departed returned suddenly to Magdeburg where he left good order for the repayring it judging it a place of no small importance for the affaires of Swethland hee from thence marched after Pappenheime and wonne Steimbruck intending thereby to streighten the enemies Army for this being a passe of some importance upon the River Obroe and very commodious for the Imperialists the Swedes might here have fought with much advantage against their enemies but Pappenheime did so gallantly acquite himselfe as though he was beset on both side by the Protestants he without any losse came to Beterloo a strong place not farre from the River Glien between the territories of Heye and the Bishoprick of Hildeskeim having brought under Contribution the Townes of Brounswyck and Lunenburg rich Provinces which lye between the Wesser and the Elb bordering on the South upon Misnia and Thuringia on the North upon the Lower Saxony hee at last recovered the Confines of Hamelen that hee might make use of that City and of the Wesser aswell for the safeguard of his owne Forces as for the preservation of such Townes as had not yet revolted from Caesar wherein his successe was so happy that by this occasion he had meanes to shew how advantagious in war it is to have undaunted wise and valliant Commanders and which is of greatest concernment such as understand their profession hee defended he maintained himselfe and with a few men stopt the enemies advancing who knowing him to be resolute and industrious durst not come to handy-blowes with him effects which are not onely occasioned by mens fearfull apprehensions whose losse takes its rise from selfe beliefe but particularly by the valour of other men which begets feare and admiration even in the Enemy High mindes are alwayes verst about great matters the King being gone from Mentz considered the importancy of Creutsbag a Towne seated upon the River Nayle which takes its head from a little Lake in the state of Swibrechen called Scheidambergerway'd fals into the Rhyn at Binghem by the taking hereof he should secure unto himselfe the possession of
the Souldiers being changed the Guards were doubled But the King who upon all occasions did ever desire to advance was minded to passe over the Lech and remove Tilly from thence who kept the maine body of his Army along that River and although the enterprise was some-what hard yet observing the course of the River and the Bankes thereof he suddainly raised thereupon a good Trench and planting his Artillery began to play upon the enemy who keeping themselves close within their Trenches did valiantly reply upon him and withstood his Passage the bickering began to grow very hot where whil'st both sides were busied and plyed the Battaile a pace the King being advertised by Duke Bernard Waymar how that he had discovered a Foord a little lower by a little Island by the one side whereof he might easily wade hee presently sent back the said Duke thither with certaine Boates carried to such like purpose upon Carts Whil'st the King-indeavoured by all meanes he could to passe over Waymar past over some select Souldiers by the benefit of those Boates into the said Island to the end that if need should be they might make good the Passage till such time as a Bridge might be prepared and he so well placed his Cannon and Muskets upon the Flankes of the enemy that Tilly who marched thitherward in Person to hinder the Passage had not the fortune either to beat the Swedes out of the Island or to hinder them for making their Bridge for his shot did little availe him the Swedes being fenced by the point of the Island Whereupon Tilly knowing the importance of the affaire and the great difficulty made a fierce and bloudy skirmish amidst the waters which on the other side of the River might easily be waded over for it came not to above a mans middle but at last the Swedes prevailing who incouraged by the comming of their King strove who should first throw themselves upon the Bridge they got unto the other Banke notwithstanding all the enemy could doe there were slaine of the Romane Catholiques side about 2000 and Tilly himselfe being hurt with a shot from a Sachar dyed within three dayes Count Aldringer was likewise here hurt in the head whereof he was afterwards healed and the Imperialists after a long and bloudy Battaile were forced to retreat this Battaile continued for the space of six whole houres and so great was the hail of Cannon and Musket-shot as many Souldiers who had been in divers other well fought actions affirmed that this in their opinion was to be numbred amongst the bloudiest that they ever saw it happened on the Twenty second day of March. The Duke of Bavaria was no lesse troubled at this misfortune then at the death of Tilly a Commander of tride valour and of great experience nor was his death any whit lesse lamented by the Emperous selfe and those other temporall Princes who well knew his wisedome constancy watchfull diligence and choice wit His descent was not great amongst the Wallones In his youth with continued patience persevering in the duties of a private Souldier and by his peculiar valour working himselfe by degrees from one preferment to another he at last to his great glory to the satisfaction of his Princes and to the great advantage of the Roman Religion arived at the honour of being supreme Commander of the Armies of the Roman Catholique League wherein he behaved himselfe so wisely and with such courage as being victour in many field Battailes and vanquisher of many people he deservedly merits to be numbred in the first ranke of the famous Commanders of our time he was of a middle stature of a strong complexion and of a martiall-like agillity preserving even in his gray headed yeares a youth-like bodily strength he was zealous in the service of his Princes and a very great defender of the Roman Catholicke Religion for he was often heard to say he would rather run hazard of his life then shun the occasion of well doing his devotion in all his actions was admirable he never went about any action before he had humbly on his knees begged of God that the event might be answerable to his divine will 't is said that if a man may live a Religious life in warre he did so All the workes of this Generall were commended by the Souldier and admired by the people his very enemies not undervalluing him The only thing that might fully his pious fame was the cruelty and barbarousnesse committed by his Souldiers at the taking of Newbrandeburg and Magdeburg which was such as the Romanists themselves were scandalised at the report thereof many were of opinion that this his want of compassion cryed for vengeance from God Almighty who is not pleased with cruelty though exercised against Infidels and Barbarians and that the chastisement which useth to fall upon wise men to wit the infatuation of their wisedome happened unto him for that moderation for which in all his other actions he was admired being suffocated by his too great daring he came presumptuously to the Battaile of Leipsick which was the break neck of all his glories for had he therein carryed himselfe according to his wonted warinesse many are of opinion he could not have missed the glory of happy successe and for that one misfortune treads in the heels of an other as though he had beene unwilling to out live this losse he ended his life in the bosome of glory writing in Characters of his owne bloud to posterity his eternity of merits from the Duke of Bavaria and pointing out unto them the way which leades generous mindes to immortallity In Walesteines Court his death seemed rather to cause joy then sorrow and this for that all Courtiers fawning or frowning as do their Lords their Masters knew that Walestein envying this warriers good conditions and the renowne which by the Victories in so many Battailes he had wonne loved not to see this great tree over-shadow the branches of his ambition and the occasion hereof was for that 't is impossible for him to love the Servant that hates the Master so Walesteine not caring for the Duke of Bavaria as suspecting that it was he who had perswaded the Emperour to take from him his former place and make use of Tilly who was thought to be fitter then he for so great an employment did no lesse despise and emulate the actions of the servant then those of the Master The Duke of Bavaria not thinking himselfe safe now in Monaco the place of his residence which was only walled about with old wals conveyed speedily all his most pretious movables to Saltsborg belonging to the Archbishop thereof an Ecclesiasticall Prince and one of the most potent and richest of all Germany this City is seated in a pleasant Country upon the River Zalza a Towne lately fortifyed with two Castles upon two hils which command the River on both sides hee with the remainder of his Army did wisely retire himselfe
come out of hotâhouses and places under ground no accompt was made of them he commanded us to march in Battaile-array resolving to fight with them but the Wirtenbergers coasting along the woods never parted from them for though they were more in Foot then we yet came they short of us in Horse and Discipline wherein the Caesarians were growne prefect by their former warres A businesse of so great importance as is the advantage that old Souldiers have over new ones and in particular Country people for these men taking up Armes against their will not to serve their Prince but to obey him and being bread up in the idlenesse of Peace are not able to indure the hardnesse of warre so as their mindes being alwayes upon their owne families it is impossible to divert them from the thought thereof and their intensivenesse to peace and quiet imbaseth their courage Montecuculi desirous to adde to these his proceedings and being incouraged by information and scouts which assured him that there were no other Forces then what hath been said in those parts came the next morning with his Horse and Dragoones to Knitling a Towne of Wirtenberg weakly walled and situated the Inhabitants whereof prepared for defence refusing to surrender the Towne I know not whither they did this as knowing succour was at hand or for that the Imperialists wanted Foot and Cannon or for that it is naturall to cowardly people to seem valiant when they feare nothing But not being able to withstand a fierce assault made by the Dragoones and Light-horse who upon this occasion were lighted from horseback they fled in such confusion from their stations and foure of the Caesarian Souldiers advanced so couragiously forward as possessing themselves of the wicket of the great gate which was left open and abandoned they let downe the draw-bridge and let in their Companions who being followed by the Horse put as many to the sword as at the first they met withall and angry that they found therein no booty for the Townsmen had conveyed away all the best things they had to Heylburne they revenged themselves by setting the Towne on fire in foure places which being as is usually in Germany for the most part built of wood it was in six houres burnt to the ground Which may serve for an example to such Citizens as never having seen the sword drawne at their gates and thinking to affright and oppugne the enemy with lovely plumes in their Helmets and rich Scarfes about their necks doe not afterwards make good their bravery of speech with gallantry of heart and so lose their Country Honour Substance and lastly their Lives The Emperours Commanders were not delighted with this fiery spectacle occasioned by wicked and distrustfull Souldiers they themselves being Gentlemen full of honour and humanity but soon after some Scouts being returned who were sent abroad to learne the Condition of the enemy brought word backe that the Governour of Heidelberg beeng issued out of the Towne with 800 Foot to surprise Wiseloch a walled Town of those parts was incompassed in a wood by 500 Horse of the Rheingraves for the which he desired assistance protesting that if they would speedily free him froÌ that danger the Swedes being easily put to flight the Town would remaine at the good will of the Roman-Catholicks wherein the best things of the Country-people that lived thereabouts was brought Montecuculi though hee listned unwillingly to these hopes yet Ossa who was an old man and experienced in these parts insisting that they should go on the desire of bootie being able to blind-fold the eyes of difficultie resolved to march thither-ward yet did he this onely with his Horse to the end that upon any extremitie he might safely retire and therefore he sent his Foot and Cannon towards Filsburg Mounsieur De Bambaglione a Loraynese and Colonel of the Emperours side was therefore ordered to advance who descrying two Companies of the Enemies Horse which conveyed some Carriages of Baggage believing there were no more there then the aforesaid 500. Horse and no whit feaâing such an number gave on furiously against them who betaking themselves to their heeles retired upon a good gallop till such time as being past a narrow passage in a plaine which led them into another open Country invironed with thick Woods they faced about making Bambaglione believe their trust lay onely in the advantagiousnesse of those Woods Here passed a slight Skirmish the Swedes still retiring towards Wiseloch and Bambaglione pursuing them till such time as he fell upon an Ambush of the Reingraves and of Colonell Bernard Sciavalis Ki one who was well conversant in those parts from whence he was so played on by Musquets and set upon by Curiassiers as after having made what brave defence could be expected from a gallant Souldier he fell downe dead most of his Souldiers being together with him slaine or taken Prisoners Those who were not so farre advanced as the rest and who were better Horst and knew the wayes through the Woods assisted by the night recovered Filsburg from whence Montecuculi soone removed with the rest of his men and came to his former Quarters of Brisack and Colmar This indeavour of the Imperialists wakened those that slept therefore the Duke of Wirtenberg who durst not formerly declare himselfe an Enemy finding himselfe injured by the surprisall of Knitting and other Townes assembled all the men of his state together and marcht into the Field intending to doe by the Austrians as they had done by him But because nothing rayses a Princes mind more to consideration then doth the importance of Warre though the Duke of immature age well inclined to Warre full of vast designes which were fomented by the troubles begun in France and confirmed in him by his Councellours out of the hatred they bore to the Roman Catholiques and the Swedes suggestions and the hopes they had in them minded not what the event might be which a wise man ought alwayes to have like a looking-Glasse before his eyes and though he infinitely desired to enter friendship with the King of Swedes yet not forgetting the Maxime That it is good to have the opinion of others as well that he might have wherewithall to cloake the defects of wisedome as likewise that he might lay to their charge any thing of evill that might befall resolved to send for his Chiefe Councellours and to advise with them upon the injuries he had received from the Caesarians and what revenge he ought to take He with great resentment urged that the Imperiall Officers were insufferable in their demeanour that they thirsted after other mens estates were ungratefull to their friends intending onely their owne interest that they thought they should merit at Gods hands by being cruell unto and by ruinating the Protestants that the pretence of Religion was so esteemed of by the Romanists as they thought their faith was not broken when the occasion being palliated by some invention
they know they may usurpe that from their friends which they desire that there was no safe living amongst them who coveting to rule over all men keepe their ambition onely so long hidden as they thinke it not fit to discover it That the reverence pretended to by the Church-men was knowne to be too pleasing and that they could not chuse but thinke them their Enemies that did not reverence them that their avarice was tinder so ready to take fire at their owne interest that any least sparke of profit was able to make them spread abroad a combustion of all manner of miseries and vexations that the Declaration made some yeares before by the Emperour at the instigation of the Ecclesiastiques was not to be indured to wit that he would have restitution made ãâã the Churches goods a large part whereof had beene by the Protestants possessed for above a hundred yeares that this was much to his prejudice whose incomes were for the most part composed thereof that this one pretence of the Austrians was sufficient to demonstrate their ends tended to suppresse the Princes of the Empire and to overthrow the faith of the Gospel that wise men ought not to refuse an occasion of securing themselves from those they feare that it was a more profitable expedient to follow the forâune of Warre with a bold resolution then being exposed to the injuries of friends to live continually full of feares under the yoake of subjection in an uncertaine peace Princes even in their weaknesses have a certaine kind of prerogative above the wisedome of private men so as though the Duke was for these reasons confirmed in his desired resolutions yet since in consultations all men ought to be heard what they can say he earnestly desired the rest to speake freely their opinions Some who were made wary by experience did not in silence passe by the example of those unadvised Princes who siding with the Emperours Enemies became food to the ravenous fury of the Militia and had inriched those who would have alwayes lived miserable in peace They said The disorder of the Souldier was to be borne withall particularly when covering their Licencionesse by the credit of their advancing they are freed from their deserved punishment that such occasions were to be taken away as doe cause pretences by him who deres not to be by them convinc'd that covetousnesse is not by any meanes more allayd then by the easie comming thereby that the designes of great men are not to be loosened by the hands of inferiours That it is alwayes good not to take notice of offences when by taking notice of them we againe pull them upon us that patience in peace was more profitable then the inquietudes of Warre that the Dukedome of Wirtenberg stood betweene Alsatia and Swabenland Provinces full of the Austrians Forces That it could not rayse above 12000. Souldiers and those unexperienced in Warre accustomed to rest and quiet and free from noyse that in all the Dukedome there were onely Sordendorfe Heybrun and Onviell Castle which were able for any time to withstand a Field Army That it would be found better counsell to keepe in good correspondency with the Emperour as the Dukes his Predecessors had done leaving behind them the fame of having beene loyall to the Empire then by leaning to a Forraine and dangerous friendship to purchase the title of Rebell Yet were not these reasons of force enough to allay the heat of his spirit and quench that fire which the Dukes inclination considered was kindled in the greatest part of his Counsellours so as conveying what he had most precious into Onviell Castle standing upon the side of an unaccessible Rock in the midst of an open Countrey betweene Constance on the East-side the Rhyne and Zwitsers on the South and Wirtenberg on the North he took up Armes in the Swedes behalf Gustavus Horn who was about Francfurt upon the Main heaâââhereof advanced suddenly with all the men he could get out of the Garrisons of the lower Palatinat and Franconia into Alsatia as well to make further progresse into that Country as to assist foment the Duke in the Declaration he had made who hating intirely the Papists and being a young-man so given to Warre when he should see himselfe thus upheld would not stick to declare himselfe an open Enemy to the Emperour The which the Swedes desired much he should doe for it was hard for them to subsist in Alsatia under those Forts without the Dukes assistance from whence they might have Men Munition Pioniers Carriages and necessary Victualls Which being done Horne assembled the Body of an Army together consisting of 10000. fighting men and ten pieces of Cannon This preparation of the Swedes made Strasburg bethink themselves which till then had kept Neutralls as not knowing who should have the better the which Town wishing well to the Swedes either for their Conformitie in Religion or for the apprehended greatnesse of the Imperialists added to these their desires by the rationall pretence of seeing themselves on all sides surrounded by them And affirmed it was rashnesse to deny that which could not be made good that the Imperialists Forces were farre off that opiniatricy could not be maintained without neere and opportune succours that the libertie of Cities consisted in keeping friendship with those who they stood in feare of in taking away the occasion of threats and protesting They would doe the like to the Austrians whensoever they should be encamped neer them they declared themselves to side with the Swedes and assisted Horne with what they were able Strasburg is seated in the middle of Alsatia being the Metropolis of that Province in a spacious fruitfull and lovely place within Cannon shot of the Reine upon the which a Bridge of no small consideration is maintained with exact Fortifications It is perfectly wel Situated furnished with all sorts of defence in so much as it may be tearmed one of the best Cities of Germany It enjoyes its libertie is well peopled with Merchandizing-men and by Traffique becomes Rich Faire and Great Now whil'st the Imperiallists kept on the other side the Rhyn Horne made himselfe master of all the Townes on this side which upon the first appearance of the enemy were abandoned by the Romanists so drawing neer Offemberg a Towne Fortified with Wals and Towers after the ancient manner four Leagues from Strasburg upon the Confines of Wirtimberg the Towne maintained it selfe against him and thrice repused his assaults but at length not finding themselves able to make a safe resistance it came to composition and tooke Lawes from the Conquerour Thus went the affaires in Dlsatia when the Austrians who were under the Command of Count Shamburg in Slesia and of Don Baltazar Maradas in Bohemia received orders from Walesteine to enter Lusatia and that whil'st he should entertaine the Kings Forces under Nurenberg they should indeavour some-what of advantage in those parts The Commission was obeyed so as
Sittaw and Guben two Townes paâted by the River Neisse with divers other places weake in Defence and Garrisons yielded themselves to the Caesarians But the Duke of Saxony awakened by this invasion assembled all his Army which lay scattered in divers Townes and went against the Austrians who were not strong enough long to withstand him so as after some dayes defence they were necessitated to abandon Gubân to surrender Sittaw and to quit other places they had tane The Saxons likewise possessed themselves of Freiberg watered by Polsnitz Sagan neere Bober and Glogaw watered by the Oder chiefe Cities in Slesia together with many other Townes which were forsaken by the Imperialists who got into Steinaw seated between Glogaw and Breslaw where they fortified themselves but being afterwards set upon by Harnem the Saxon Generall having first by their singular valour supplied the defects of their Bulworkes with the bodies of men they were inforced to yield whose example was followed by Lignitz a walled Town seated upon the Angle made by Ratsbach Schwartzwasser Rivers which taking their head not farre from thence joyne there and a little below fall into the Oder this Towne was taken by Kalchesteim a Saxon Colonell This meane while Maradas being joyned with Schamburg Count Mansfeild and Schaffâuts chiefe Commanders of the Emperours Army opposed the Swedes proceedings and Mustering their Forces which came to 14000 Souldiers and 12 piece of Cannon he thought it might make much for them to recover Steinaw hee saluted it with divers Cannon-shot and couragiously assaulted it and with many threates invited the Garrison to surrender the Towne as they basely did having had onely Thirty Great-shot made at them The taking hereof incouraged the Caesarians to undertake the winning of Glossaw a thing very much desired by them aswell for their owne honours as to satisfie Walesteine for it belonged unto him as being Duke thereof being afterwards informed that Tuball one of the Swedish Colonels was intrencht about it with a good body of an Army which would make their designe the harder they deserted the effecting thereof and some little skirmishes passing between the Swedes and them with equall successe they left a fitting garrison in the Fort and withdrew themselves to Breslaw the Metropolitan of Slesia a free Towne as are the other Hauns Townes of Germany rich and given to Merchandise by the traffique it holds with Poland but not much confiding in the Magistrate thereof and suspecting the faith of the Protestant Inhabitants fearing likewise to be set upon by the Swedes who made haste towards them they resolved to go to Neisse a place strongly but irregularly fortified and there to attend succour from Walesteine Their hopes being vanished to aire who built their greatnesse upon the ruines of France by the death of Momerancy by the punishment of the Rebels and by Monsieurs reconciliation and the Imperialists being filled with new fears through the formidable power of that now united and warlike Kingdome wavering in the uncertainty of their resolutions they openly declared themselves when new businesse being set on foot by the Spanish wisedome and a firme resolution taken to sow discord in France that they might thereby secretly enjoy their desired fruite they applyed themselves to the effecting thereof And for that whil'st Monsieur stayed in Lorayne his favourite Pilloran fell in love with the Dawager Princesse of Psalsburg Sister to Duke Charles love being of power sufficient to overcome what ever defence wisedome could make and the Princesse by secret messengers corresponding with him in his desires he gave himselfe so totally over to the hopes of this marriage by which his Condition would be not a little bettered and being much troubled at Momerancy's example thinking his person more considerable when out of France then when in it where he was not wel looked on by those who were faithful to the King making use of the credit he had with Monsieur raising him by new hopes to fresh undertakings troubling his thoughts with Momerancy's death and by putting him in minde that Princes how mercifull soever they be never forget the injurie of high Treason hee brought him againe to resolve of absenting himselfe the which he did by withdrawing himselfe againe into Lorayne where Pilloran hoping to make himselfe worthy of the Princesse Dowager by some service which he might doe to Duke Charles did negotiate and privatly conclude the marriage with the Princesse Margaret which as was very well knowne was yielded unto by the Spaniard that they might have the greater obligation upon the Duke in binding him to effect their desires that they might by this allyance oblige the affection of these Princes reciprocally the one unto the other and by this knot make both their hatreds to the King of France implacable and by the assistance of this State and the Forces thereof make fitting preparations for to trouble France and by the interposition of this State free Alsatia and the Palatinat from the power of that Crown Moreover the most Christan King being without issue and having but small hopes of any his Brother was to succeed unto him so as the making of his brother sure did not meanely import them whereby they might not onely afterwards ransome such Townes and Provinces of theirs as were fallen under the government of the Crowne of France but afford matter of thought to the subjects of that Kingdome who should take up Armes against the Kings onely Brother and Heire as well for the respect which is due to the blood Royall as likewise for feare lest he being afterwards possest of the Scepter of that Kingdome might remember such as had stuck unto the King Many were therefore of opinion that the Spaniards unwilling that he should stay in Lorayne where being so neere he might soone alter his determination and returne to France as by all possible art it was by the King indeavoured he should doe they wrought so with Duke Charles as that he should perswade Monsieur it were better for him to retire himselfe into Flanders for that by his stay in that his Dukedome the King might take occasion to threaten him the Duke of Lorayne and make Warre upon him whose Forces wanting the Austrians assistance were but weake that it was better to see the issue of the Emperours Armies under Walesteine then by buckling thereunto without a good foundation runne upon the like hazard with little hopes of good successe Monsieur being then perswaded by these reasons and much more confirmed therein by the advice of such as were of credit wiâh him not minding their policy went to Brussels to the great satisfaction of the Spaniards whose end as was said by some wise men was to keep him as an Hostage and under some specious pretence either of waging war against Languedoc or some such like thing to draw him into Spaine and so secure themselves by their keeping him aloofe from France from being unquieted thereby and that if their mentioned hopes should
occasions hightens glory and gives proofe of loyalty no whit declining in his resolution but incouraging his men and gathering unto them those who were else-where disbanded and forsaken by their owne Commanders shewed himselfe miraculously worthy and made it appeare that in times of greatest danger generous minded men ought to give testimony of their valour This did abate the Enemies eagernesse and afforded Walesteine and Gallasse opportunity to re-order some confused Squadrons and to withstand the Swedes Charge who being acertained of their Kings death and the Imperialists being again reunited there falling at that very instant likewise which was about an houre before Sun-set a very thicke fog or mist which played the part of a charitable mediatresse they fearing lest by further ingaging themselves they might run upon some disadvantage resolved to make a stand and to make good their ground and presse no further forward Walesteine likewise finding himselfe abandoned by many of his Captaines some of which were fled some dead and some wounded and all his Camp full of confusion for Pappenheimes death who was generally beloved and that neither he nor his Commands were obeyed resolved to keep in his station without any further attempt so as the one and the other of them contenting themselves with the advantage of their situations they afterwards with-drew into their owne quarters Thus ended the Battaile of Lutzen fought on the 16th of November which was not partiall either to the one or to the other side for each of them kept master of their own ground and the losse was in a manner equall Yet was the Kings death prised by the Caesarians at as high a rate as whatsoever victory and so indeed it proved for with him perished the Swedes good fortune the Souldiers obedience ceased disorders sprung up dissentions were bred amongst Commanders and ambition of precedency diversity of opinions difference of Counsels envy of actions and dissonancy of confederacyes were stirred up There perished in this dayes fight of both sides about 10000 Souldiers it is not known of which side most and many Colonels and Commanders of esteem of which there were wounded of the Imperialists side who afterwards dyed Bartaldo Walesteine and Colonell Chiese and of the Swedes Brundesteim Winckell and divers others the action lasted from Sun rising to an houre before Sun set the greatest slaughter and execution was about noone the Imperialists left some pieces of great Cannon upon the field for want of horses to draw them off the Baggage was not touched either by the one or the other side yet 't is true the Imperialists baggage was much damnified by fire which lightning in the Ammunition blew up many and slew many that were the Guard thereof The end of the fourth Book DOCTRINA PARIT VIRTUTEM The Warres and other State-Affaires of the best part of Christendome THE V. BOOK The Contents of the Fifth Booke Herein is discovered the condition of the one partie and the other after the Battell of Lutzen The Swedes resolution to fight again with the Imperialists Walesteines retreat into Bohemia How the Protestants received the Kings death His conditions The Roman Catholiques sorrow for the losse of Pappenheim The Swedes taking of Lipsia Gustavus Horne his proceedings in Alsatia The death of Fredericke King of Bohemia Elector Palatine The restoring of Franchendall and other Townes of the Palatinat to his Sonnes Baudis his attempt against the Electorat of Cullen Aldringer his proceedings in Swabenland Reliefe brought to that Province by the Swedes The Imperialists retreat into Bavaria Inrodes made by the Austrians in Alsatia The Duke of Loraynes Achievements The indeavour of Peace with the Duke of Saxony set on foot againe by Walesteine The Imperialists proceedings in Slesia The Dyet held at Helbrune Preparations made by the Duke of Feria at Millan for the comming of the Infant of Spaine The Siege of Hagghenaw in Alsatia and also Filisborg Provisions made by the French in Rhetia A Treatie of Peace propounded to the Hollanders by the Spaniards The event of the Negotiation with Saxony and of the like with the Vnited Provinces THe Battell of Lutzen being thus ended the Swedish Commanders greatly confused for the losse of their King and very weary by reason of the pains they had taken resolved to withdraw themselves to Wisenfells where before they tooke any refreshment being all assembled together having each with other condoled their Kings death at last they paused and having dryed their teares they like undaunted Chiefetaines the constancy of their hearts not failing them for all this so important an accident nor having the clearenesse of their wisedome darkened by the gastlinesse of death and feare but rather which was worthy of remarke comforting each other and moderating each others griefe it was at last propounded by Duke Waymer whether they should hault in expectance of Saxony Laneberg and other Forces already on their march towards them or else before their heat were cooled or their Swords sheathed they should pursue the Enemy astonished through the deaths flight of their men the importancy of this businesse being very well weighed there were some that advised That without further consideration they ought to pursue Walesteine before by new recruits he might take to the Field againe that these were of the number of such advantagious occasions as were not to be let slip that the Swedes were inraged at their Kings death that revenge by pursuing of the Imperialists was that which by the generall applause of the Souldiers was desired and thirsted after that this the Souldiers daring was wonderfull advantagious that if their Prince were lost they ought not at least to abandon the Victory up on which the common good depended that it behoved them who loved the Kings life not to forget his death Whilst the greatest part of the Commanders were pondring such conceptions as these the out-cry of the Souldiers who like so many inraged men broke in asking where the King was thundring in the eares of the Generalls and every one agreeing in opinion of prosecuting the Enemy and this the rather for that the newes just then came of the Duke of Lunebergs arivall at Affendorfe a Village within foure houres march of them after they had cryed up and by the joynt applause of all the Militia chosen Duke Waymer for their Generall who was deservedly beloved by them all and a Prince both for birth and courage deserving such a charge it was resolved that that very night Offchirch should goe with some of the Horse into the Field to recover the Body and the Souldiers being refresh't with Victualls and Wine of which there was great store found in Wisenfells the Swedes appeared againe the next morning in Battell Array upon the same plaine The Sunne was two houres high before they could find the Kings Body which when they found was stript and so dis-figured and mangled with blood and the being trampled on by Horses as hardly could they know
carriage the good repute his very Enemies had of him published his ineffable worth to be without spot his estimation and renowne were the Trumpets of his valour and experience Germany hath not produced a privat Gentleman of so mature an understanding of so diligent a mind of so sprightly a wit nor one so generous he never undertooke any enterprise before he had well weighed what the event and consequence thereof might be he met with no difficulty which he found not some meanes to overcome hee prised not any preferment profit or interest wherein his particular person was concerned he was held to be in all things zealous to his masters service desirous of reputation and ambitious of glory he had wont to say to some of his friends who would perswade him to be more sparing of the monyes that were paid him that to deserve well of a Prince did not consist in having ones chests full of Gold that Souldiers loved not there where their Captaines were too mindefull of themselves that a faithfull Servant could have no more glorious title then that of Banckrout in fine he had a soule to which nothing was wanting but a body of Soveraignty that therein might be seen whatsoever of good wise courteous or conscious may be desired in a Prince hee was renowned by his Souldiers admired by his Companions he gratified Princes and deserved very well of the Roman-Catholique League and of all the house of Austria The Imperialists being gone from Leypzig Offchirch hasted with three Regiments of Horse and presented himselfe before the gates thereof the Inhabitants received him quickly within their wals aswell out of the duty they ought to the Duke of Saxony their naturall Prince as out of the love they bore to those of the Protestant party In the Castle there was a Garrison of the Imperialists wherefore Offchirch sent a Trumpet to the Governour thereof threatning fire and sword if he would not surrender but he not failing in his loyalty being an experienced Souldier and well verst in warre refused to doe it and prepared to defend it whereupon the Swedes drawing that very night neer the ditch raised up workes of earth and the next morning began to play upon the wals thereof with their Cannon In an other part some Companies of Saxon Horse and some others of the Duke of Lunenburg who came to re-inforce the Swedish Army thinking to come time enough to the Battaile understanding that not many of the Emperours Souldiers were left in Chemnitz a Towne seated upon the River Chemnitz which comming sorth from the furthermost bounds of Bohemia towards the South fals into Mulda another River of the said Province which taking its beginning from the Mountaines of Voitland a part of Bohemia waters Misnia and then falls into the Elb and not thinking it safe to leave that Towne behinde them they turned their march towards it and with little disturbance placing their Artillery against it they in a few houres perswaded the Inhabitants who knew the weakenesse of the place to parly and to agree to quit the Towne marching out onely with their Swords which they did to the number of 400 Foot and 70 Horse This Towne being taken Kniphausen the Swedish Marshall of the Field went with six Regiments of Foot and Horse to joyne with Tuball who stayd with 3000 Souldiers before the Castle of Leypzig and he quartered the rest of his Forces about Aldenburg a walled Towne with weake and ancient Fortifications neere Pleis betweene Borne and Zwika The Imperialists stoutly answered the enemies out-rage from the Castle when the Wind mills which were for the service of the Garrison being beâten downe and Kniphausen being come up unto the Enemy the Castle was more narrowly beset whereupon the besieged seeing themselves neere lost resolved to parly promising to surrender the place if they were not succoured within ten dayes this Proposition was entertained by Tuball but no succour appearing and the ten dayes being expired they surrendred the Castle to the Swedes the Imperialists comming forth on the 12 of December with their Swords onely to the number of 300. The Saxons hereby incouraged to new enterprises they bethought themselves of the taking in of Zwika a place well fortified upon the side of Mulda to the end that they might not suffer that Garrison of the Imperialists to grow greater which might afterwards be likely to disturbe their proceedings in those parts Therefore Kniphaâsen taking with him those Souldiers which he found there about Leypizg which were some 5000 Foot and 1600 Horse marched towards Aldenburg and the Saxons being advertised of the great preparations made by the Austrians in Sletia to oppose their designs here divided themselvs faced about towards that Province The Governour of Zwika perceiving the comming of the Swedes resolved valiantly to defend it he therfore fired all the houses which stood about the Ditch which might serve the Enemy for a blind he withdrew into the Citie all that the time would permit him to doe he disposed of his Cannon in the fittest places and made it appeare he was resolved not to fayle in the dutie of his charge and performance of his loyaltie Kniphausen being come within the sight of the walls and finding it very hard to get earth by reason of the excessive Frosts built some Gabions of great pieces of Wood and filled them with earth and made such use thereof to secure his Batteries as that serving himselfe thereof to purpose and the besieged understanding that Walesteine was retreated from Saxony seeing little hope of timely succour after thirteene dayes holding out parlyed and surrondred the Towne upon more honourable conditions then in like case is usually received from a conquering Enemy marching forth with 700 Foot and 100 Horse Gustavus Horne this meane while made divers progresses in Alsatia in particular he took Benfield one of the most important places of that Province guirt about with five Royal Bulworks though not very great ones with Ditches and halfe Moones in a spacious open Country not farre from the Rhyne upon the side of Ill a River which comming from the Mountains of Helvetia fals into the Rhyn beneath Strasbourg This place being in two moneths taken he marched towards Ebersmunster the Inhabitants whereof knowing themselves not able with their imperfect walls to resist the Swedish Forces who were above 10000 fighting men and 22 piece of Cannon that they might shun the dangers and incommodities which those receive who foolishly undertake impossibilities accorded upon the first summons and received into quarter 200 Horse and 600 Foot The taking of this place facilitated the Swedes advancing to before Silistat a chiefe Citie of Alsatia betweene Benfield and Brisach fortified with strong Parapets where playing upon it with 12 peice of Cannon for the space of three weeks Colonell Breitembach who commanded in the Towne after having gallantly defended himselfe dispairing of succour by reason of the sew Austrian Forces that were in that
were burnt at which accident the rest being afrighted and astonished the Swedes had not much difficulty to get upon the abandoned Rampiers and so surprise the Towne yet their aboade there was but short for the Romanists planted their Cannon against it and playing incessantly upon it with 24 Great Guns wherewith they battered downe the houses threw downe the wals and the stones flying in all places from the tops of houses they within foure dayes space were inforced to forsake the Towne and to retire themselves to Molheim wher 's Baudis perceiving the difficulty of the enterprise though he infinitely coveted to effect it did at the instance of the Holland Ambassadours desist from further violence giving thereby satisfaction to my Lords the States with whose safety it did not stand to permit more potent neighbours to be neer them then those they had and therefore they did not well approve of these the Swedish advancements by Surrendering Molheim likewise a walled Towne not farre off to those of Coln or Colonia Agrippina so called for that Agrippina mother to Nero the Emperour was borne there seated upon the Bankes of the Rhyn towards the North not farre distant from âhe Confines of the Low-Countries it is one of the greatest Cities of all Germany begirt with a double Wall and double Ditches and having above fourscore strong Towers about it it is governed by Lawes and Officers like a Common-wealth Whil'st the Swedish affaires proceeded on this manner in Germany the Lord Chancellor Oxesterne who had taken upon him the charge of the Swedes Militia and the direction of the Protestants resolves foreseeing of what importance it would be to free Westfalia from the oppression of the Imperialists wherein their Forces grew every day more numerous he made a levy of 8000 fighting men and framed the Body of an Army of them part whereof he assigned to Duke George of Lunenburg and the other part to the Landsgrave of Hâssân aswell to afford them meanes thereby to maintaine their Forts as to preserve the friendship of the Princes who were confederates with Gustavus the late King who if they should finde affaires begin to decline being wrought upon by their particular interest might change their mindes and betake themselves to that side by which their owne dominions might be the more secured and kept intire Hee assigned other 8000 to Duke Bernard Waymer that hee might passe with them into Franconia to the taking in of Bamberg a place which made much for their advantage to the effecting whereof it much imported them first to take Cronach a place of some account seated upon the Bankes of Radach and watered on the West side by the rivolet Haflach which was on their backes At their first approach they took the City which was forsaken by the small Garrison in it but the enterprise proving exceeding difficult by reason of the valiant and stout defence made by the Imperialists in the Castle he was perswaded to quit it From hence he came before Bamberg where the Caesarians wanting sufficient Provision to maintaine themselves within those Wals being advertised of the Swedes marching towards them made haste to be gone from thence to the great griefe of the Inhabitants occasioned rather by the Souldiers carrying away with them whatsoever they could lay their hands on then for their departure and retreated to Fortheim a strong hold in the same Province seated in the Angle which is made by the River Visent where it falls into the Rednitz another River But Colonell Bolach pursuing them in the Reare with some fresh Horse stayed many of them who were flying from Bamberg to Fortheim for that being incumbred with Baggage Women and Children they could not march so fast as they had wont but they were all afterwards as unusefull people set at liberty by Waymer to the end that they might witnesse to the rest of the Inhabitants of Bamberg who were already got into Fortheim that they might returne to their owne homes where they should not any wayes bee injured by the Swedish Souldier Hee furthermore made publique edicts and proclamations that they should all within one moneths space returne to their owne houses otherwise they should be declared to be for ever banished and have their goods forfeited a course usually observed by the Swedes to the end the Townes they wonne might not be void of Inhabitants the numbers whereof render a City rich and strong Whil'st businesses were in this posture some Caesarian Forces under the Command of Aldringer which waged warre in the behalfe of the Duke of Bavaria were by his diligence acrewed to so considerable a number as that they were able to keep the Field in Swabenland with some appearance of no contemptible successe whereupon Aldringer thinking he might be able by reason of the absence of the Swedish Forces which were busied in Alsatia to doe some notable act he bethought himselfe of taking in Getzberg a walled Towne between the Vlm and Ausburg which did afterwards much facilitate his Siedge against Auspurg in those dayes a rich strong and very stately City by reason of the site thereof lying as it were in the Center of Swabenland between the Leech and the Werhach hee therefore planted his Cannon against it and beginning to play very hotly upon it after three dayes stout defence made by the Garrison the Town yielded as soone after did Landspurg a place of greater account seated in Bavaria on the Confines of Swabenland upon the Bankes of Leech which being unprovided of Victuals and Ammunition and streightly beset on all sides by the Roman-Catholiques was inforced to Surrender to the great prejudice of the Swedish affaires the chiefe Officers who commanded there being made prisoners and the Common Souldiers mingled amongst his weakest Companies whereby his Forces were increased and the Enemy weakened Aldringers proceedings in Swabenland did not a little anger Horne who was then in Alsatia with the maine Body of his Army having taken in all the Townes of that Province wherein were any Garrisons of the Imperialists unlesse it were Brisach hee fearing lest the Imperialists might advance even to the recovery of Auspurg and so make themselves masters also of Mimingham a City of very considerable consequence seated in the heart of Swabenland and that from thence the Passage being open unto them they might enter into the Dukedome of Wirtenberg a Country which the Swedes had a very great care of not onely out of the obligation they ought to the Prince therof who had so much to his prejudice declared himself for the Swedes as for that it being a rich and opulent Country and not yet impoverished by the Armies they might there promise themselves good refreshment for their Army and to keep themselves commodiously in Swabenland and in Alsatia in the midst whereof this Dukedome was seated hee therefore munited the strong holds of greatest consideration in Alsatia to withstand the Lorayners attempts who were to the number of about 7000 fighting men
occasion did forthwith set upon the Wals with such violence as that the Inhabitants wanting meanes to make sufficient defence and that they might not be left to the mercy of the Sword as it oft-times befals them who trust too much to their owne weaknesse yielded upon Conditions that they might march forth onely with their Swords the which was done with little losse either to the one or to the other These same Imperialists when they were come into Neisse a place better stored with Provisions resolved to defend the Towne to the last man they provided the best they could to defend the Wals placing there Cannon and preparing stoutly to defend it whereupon the Saxons foreseeing what difficulties and dammages Assaults would produce they laid Siege unto it Gustavus Horne having this meane while taken Kaufbeuren hee advanced towards Mimingen and Kempten and on the Tenth of February so streightly besieged them as that he was come covered even underneath their Wals. But understanding that Aldringer recruited by 4000 Bavarians had passed the Leech and taken Mindelheim and Biberach the chiefe Cities of Swabenland seated upon the River Risse which running a little higher fals afterwards into the Danube so as he might easily fall upon the state of Wirtenberg a businesse which much troubled his thoughts he rose from thence and passing backe againe over the Danube at Munderking betweene Vlm and Reidlinghen where the very day before the Casarians had passed both the Armyes met together at Zwifalten a litle Towne of Swabenland upon the Confines of Wirtenberg Aldringer with the Imperiall Horse set upon the Swedes in the Reare and skirmished with them and after much contesting charged so home upon the Swedish Squadrons as that hee put them to flight taking many Carriages much Baggage two Cornets and beating down about 50 of the Enemy Horne knowing himselfe to be too weake to appeare in the Field retreated to Minsuig in the Dukedome of Wirtenberg upon the Confines of Swabenland and there intrenching himselfe waited for the arivall of some Troops that were at Wirtenberg and had received orders already to march towards him Aldringer finding it would be a difficult matter to advance further retired to Mimingen quartering his Forces some in the Country some in the Towns within the precincts of Constantz Horne being re-inforced by these Forces of the Rhingrave and Schavaluchi and hearing that Colonell Hispani was lodged at Sigmaring upon the Danube he resolved to surprize him wherefore he advanced to Blochingw and passing the Danube at Sheer a Towne upon the Banks thereof betweene Vlme and Mulen he set upon him at unawares Hispani astonished at this noveltie had not leisure to put on his Boots before he was taken prisoner together with the losse of four Companies that were with him But the strife in these Provinces who should more warely watch over them did not exceed the like care had in Westfalia by the Landgrave of Hessen against Cronsfelt and Tenecausem for after having met with some Imperialists neere Paderborn where he dealt roughly with some Companies of the said Cronsfelt and being past into the Bishoprick of Munster where he thought to make some invasion he forbore notwithstanding to doe so by reason of the Inhabitants promising him to stand Neutralls and that they would not in any sort foment or assist the Imperialists He assayled Dortmund betweene Rhur and Lippa Rivers which arising out of the said Province of Westfalia fall into the Rhyn beneath Cullen which wanting walls and Inhabitants able to make resistance easily yeelded Dorsten followed the example of Dortmund a place not stronger then the other but a seat of much importance standing upon the Lippe betweene the Bishopricke of Munster and the Dutchy of Cleaves he therein placed a sufficient Garrison commanded by Colonel Vich and went from thence to Dulmen in the same Bishoprick and Halteren in the same Province which being with small resistance taken and leaving in each of them a fitting Garrison he staid with the rest of his Forces in Bocholta a place watered by Bever a River which taking its rise from the Bishoprick of Paderborn after a short course falls into Wesser Amongst these particulars Oxesterne the Lord Chancellour knew that to wage Warre with many Forces under severall Commanders of equall power must occasion discord division and disobedience and therefore knowing very well that it was necessary to ordaine a politique order concerning the present affaires to bridle the Military licentiousnesse whereby mens meanes were wasted without discretion though friends and confederates and to agree upon Contributions to maintaine the Warre hee required a Dyet to be held by the Colleagues in Neilbrun a Towne in Wirtenberg wherein he desired the necessity of the coÌmon interest might be weighed that order might be taken for the preservation of their State This Proposition was accepted of the Protestant Deputies and those of the confederate States came thither so as the Dyet began about the midst of March wherein whilst the most advantagious meanes were in dispute how to maintaine the Protestant greatnesse the Duke of Saxony and the Elector of Brandenburg reflecting upon their owne interest saw that the best meanes to adequate their affaires was a firme resolution either to prosecute the Warre with all their might or else to conclude a Peace which was by Walesteine desired They therefore forthwith sent for the Prince of Denmarke who was then in the Saxon Army for Harnem and all the wisest men of their side to come to Dresden that they might advise upon this particular and to argue what resolutions they should give to Walesteines Propositions It was therefore propounded whether they ought to accept of Peace or prosecute the Warre those that were for Peace wrought thereunto by huge Gifts and mightie promises made them by Walesteine said That his Highnesse had hitherto managed the Warre with little profit and great expences since he hath got nothing thereby but the being numbred amongst the confederates of Sâethland and one of those that had maintained Warre against the Emperour wherein if he had as yet profited but little he was likely to profit lesse since that if the Austrians had preserved themselves against the first brunts being set upon in so many parts what would the event of these affaires be if every day strengthened by Spanish Forces by Indian Gold and by the worth of their Commanders who affectionately applyed themselves to the service of Caesar and Walesteine they should acrew to that power as in appearance they were likely to doe That those Princes are said to be very wise who fore-seeing future ruine can apply remedies whereby to prevent it before it come That Peace was never to be refused when the accepting of it may make for profit and reputation that times were not alwayes the same but changeable and that men did ost times repent the not having entertained such occasion as time hath offered that the occasions wherefore the
prepare to rayse the Siege that they might succour their Compagnions when hearing the truth of this last gotten Victory whilst the Trumpets with their Sourdets sounded to Horse they were again comforted every mans countenance was cheared the Cannons playd for joy and bowles of Wine went off apace The French perceiving more cleerly the Duke of Loraynes evill intentions by his continuing intelligence with the Austrians his hostile proceedings against the Colleagues his despising the Kings admonitions his violating of his promise made the yeare before unto his Majestie under his hand his complotting with the Enemies of France in businesses much prejudiciall to that Crowne and discovering more particularly how the Marriage was concluded betweene the Duke of Orleans and Princesse Margueret the Dukes Sister contrary to the Fundamentall Lawes of that Kingdome which inhibite Princes of the Blood to marry without the Crownes consent and thinking now that they had just cause to resent the Dukes actions which were altother contrary to his promises and finding moreover that the Duke of Feria was marching from Milan with an Army thitherward with intention when he should have relieved Brisach to come first into the strong holds of that State and by assisting of Flanders Burgondy and Germany to reduce the French affaires into a greater streight The Marshall De la Force with 20000 Souldiers without any further delay threw himselfe on the 20 of August into the midst of that Dukedome and without any contestation made himselfe Master of the Field and of all the neighbouring Towns whereupon the Duke astonished at this newes knowing himself not able to contest with the Forces of so great a King and fore-seeing moreover the ruine of his state if being obstinate to keepe in Nancy he should quit the Campania he resolved by the joynt Counsell of his Subjects since he could not contend with so great Forces to imbrace such courses as might rather tend to appease the King then to irritate him yet more He therefore recommended the care of that place to the Cardinall Nicola Francesco his Brother and he himselfe together with his Wife and Sister in Law withdrew himselfe to Remiremont towards the Confines of Burgondy and for that his Majestie of France was chiefly incenst that his Brother should Marry with the Dukes Sister and the Duke knowing that if the Princesse Marguerit should fall into the Kings hands before the Marriage should be consummated he would break the Match he resolved to send her disguised in Pages apparell attended upon by three of his most intimate Friends to her Husband into Flanders which insued without any interruption He afterwards sent the Cardinall towards the King who on the 19th of August met the King at Ponte Monson by whom he was graciously received The Cardinall humbly desired the King to pardon any thing that his Brother had done amisse or wherin that State was concerned which was rather ready to put it self under his Princely protection then to provoke his anger The King gave gracious eare to what the Cardinall said and replyd How that the Duke without any occasion had given himselfe over to very evill Councell that he had so oft broke promise with him as he could not now any longer trust him that therefore his firme intention was to secure himselfe of all the Dukes Forts and strong holds during the present Commotions in Germany and that he would have the Princesse Marguerit in his custody and that when these things should be willingly yeelded unto by the Duke he should then taste the effects of his Clemency The Cardinall having by these mannerly excuses moderated the Kings anger and saved himselfe from apparent danger was not notwithstanding herewithall satisfied as indeed it made but little for him for the King saw well enough that all this was but cunning to deferre the time till the Spanish Forces should be arrived wherefore the Cardinall seeing himselfe invironed on all sides by the French having no succour nigh and finding the Spanish promises not likely to take effect agreed to surrender up unto his Majestie the New Citie of Nancy to discard forthwith such people as were there in pay to indeavour that the Princesse Marguerit should be put into his Majesties hands and totally to relinquish the Austrian union But the Duke being after this agreement gone from Remiremânt to Bisansor and causing no small jealousie in the French by the slow disbanding of his Forces as also that it appeared not that he would forgoe his addiction to the Emperour and the King being to boot with this much more offended by reason of the Princesse Marguerits escape he caused his Army to advance in sight of Nancy and sent his complaints interlaced with threats to the Duke who thinking he was able by dissembling the machinations of his desires to free the King from his suspition and being imboldned by the Cardinall Richeleius invitation to whom the King had intrusted the government of all these affairs who then was at Charnes upon the Mosell he resolved though not so advised by his Councellors to goe in Person and speake with him that so he might excuse himselfe and by humbling himselfe procure the safetie of his State since there was no hopes of maintaining it by force or by ayde from Spaine But the French who were little advantaged by their having the New Citie of Nancy whilst they wanted the Old the New Citie being so scituated as it was commanded by the other they resolved to secure themselves of the Old Citie likewise without the which they could not maintaine themselves in the New one The Cardinall after having reproached the Duke for his sinister comportments totally averse to the Rules of good State-government he in the Kings name demanded of him the Old Citie expressing an intention that when the Duke should make good his promises the King would courteously restore all unto him whose aimes were not to take what belonged to another but only to secure himselfe of such a ones loyaltie who by failing therein might prejudice the Crowne of France The Duke who very well knew how hard a matter it was to get strong holds out of the hands of powerfull men when they were once possest of them was not well pleased with this proposition but being much vext and troubled thereat indeavoured by reasons palliated with promises and other proffers to be therein excused but the Cardinall replying that his instructions were to secure himselfe likewise of the Old Towne which by all meanes he must have and threatâning the Duke with some sinister successe if he would not willingly surrender it the Duke much confused and being on all sides invironed by the French forces knowing that he could not evade the blow â likewise apprehending danger of his own life signed the agreement caused the Town to be delivered up into the hands of the Kings Officers but upon these conditions that neither should the Citizens be disarm'd nor the Duke
this Battell 50 Ensignes and Standards or Horse and Foot Colours thirteene piece of Cannon 800 Carriages of Baggage and Ammunition Merodes his Cancellaria 5000 Souldiers and their Generall Merodes who some dayes after dyed of the wounds he that day received The Battell indured from two houres after Sunne rising till two houres after noone Cronifield though wounded in the thigh retreated with the residue of his men to Minden a strong place upon the same Wesser he was much troubled at this mis-fortune but not at all therewith daunted and dispatching Posts speedily away with news hereof to the Electors and Ecclesiastick Princes he resolved not to give way to Fortune but to recruit himselfe and by revenge recover his losse This was so great a defeat to the Romanists as it did not onely draw teares from the Elector of Coln and Mentz the safetie of the one the remitting of the other into his lost estate consisting in this Army but caus'd strange feare in the hearts of all the Inhabitants thereabouts and more particularly it much dis-heartned the besieged who seeing Merodes his Wife and the wives of many Captaines who were tane prisoners together with the Austrians Baggage sent by the Swedes in honourable equipage towards their Citie thereby to let them know how the succour they expected was utterly routed they resolved to parly and to yeeld up the Towne on condition that they might march forth with their Armes Baggage 14 Coaches and two piece of Cannon and that they should have a safe Convoy to Minden which being agreed unto the Garrison marched forth consisting of 1300 Foot and 240 Horse all brave and gallant men Henry Duke of Rohan was at this time at Zurich a Canton of the Protestant Switzers he was a Prince who favoured and protected the Protestants as much as he did maligne and beare ill will to the Papists and in particular he hated the Spaniards whose preparations in the State of Milan being by speedy messengers certified unto him from Lombardy he failed not to acquaint the Swedish Generalls there withall with whom he held particular good correspondency and for that he was a man of great wisedome and better at machinations then any thing else he considered the the taking of Constantz would be exceeding prejudiciall to the Austrian affaires and that it might be effected if it were not hindred by the Protestant Switzers he therefore applyed himselfe to have this his desire effected by jugling having therefore secretly negotiated the businesse with the principall and chiefe men of the Zurich Councell and being by them confirmed in his hopes that they would never take up Armes against the Swedes he advertised Horne Waymer and the great Councellor Oxesterne hereof by the meanes of a Zurich Captaine named Vlrich who though they knew that in the compassing of such an attempt they were to meet with many difficulties for there was no good to be done therein without bringing their Forces upon the Nelveticke Territories and they knew not how this being an injurous act could be acceptable to those Cantons with whom the Swedes were by all meanes to hold correspondency yet having well weighed the businesse and disputed it pro and contra for a whole moneths space and being againe assured by Vlrich from the Duke of Rohan of the easinesse of the enterprise which he had by excuses honested to the Switzers they resolved to bend thitherward and indeavour the effecting thereof Whereupon the Marshall advanced with 12000 men towards Velinghem and seeming as if he would set downe before that Towne and end the businesse which was begun by the Wirtenbergers hee on the suddain drew neer to Steine upon the Rhyn three Leagues from Constantz and required of the Burgers of the Towne passage for his men over that Bridge who answering that they could not give way thereunto without the leave of their superiours and Horne replying he had no time to lose in consultations but that he needs must passe and if that they would not give way thereunto in a friendly manner he would open his passage with those keyes which he brought with him shewing them his Cannon they inforced by feare gave way to that which they could not withstand Yet it is thought that this happened by former intelligence had and agreed upon and by Commission given to the chiefe Magistrate of the Towne by some of the leading men of Zurich who were suspected to be conscious thereof for else there was no likelihood that Horne should seeke a breach with the Switzers since it did not stand with the Swedes interest to fall foule with those Cantons as likewise for that Steine might have held out it being invironed with good old Wals till it might have been relieved by its Masters which might have been done the next day and though they had been forced to abandon it by breaking the Bridge which crost the Rhyn and was but built of Wood they might have kept that Army from advancing further he then past over all his men by night on the seventh of September and leaving 500 Foot there that upon any occasion he might secure that Passage he came the next day before Constantz but by reason of his haste to passe over the Rhyn at that place before the Papists Switzers or Austrians should have any notice thereof which he doubted might be a difficult matter unlesse he made all the greater diligence that he might make the more haste he left behinde him his great Cannon believing that the Duke of Wirtenberg would furnish him with the like but whither it were through the idlenesse of the Conductors or some other let 't was six dayes before they came so as the besieged had not onely time to communicate this newes to the Governour of Lindaw and prepare for defence but to receive a succour of 800 men which was speedily sent them by the Lake of Vberlinghem and from Lindaw Costantz is a very important situation placed upon the Lake which from thence takes its name which doth not onely serve it for safe-guard but is of a great advantange to it the River Rhyn which comes forth of that Lake passeth by the North-side of it by which meanes and by moderne Fortifications it is on that side impregnable towards the West and South on this side the Rhyn it is onely begiât with single Wals Towers and Ditches after the ancient manner the Austrians not being able to make it more defenceable on that side for confining there upon the Switzers and they being by agreements bound not to have any so important Fort flanking upon them all the indeavours formerly had by the Austrians to fortifie it was hindred by the not consenting thereunto of the Switzers Cantons It is a City of reasonable precincts it hath in it three Boroughs of no small consideration it hath formerly been a Priviledged place and one of the Hauns Townes of Germany but the Citizens thereof having imbraced the Protestant faith and driven out all
the Romanists it was inforced in the yeare 1548. by the Emperour Charles the first to receive those they had driven forth to set it under their hands that they would obey such orders in matter of Religion as should be given them and such Lawes and duties as their neighbouring States did which were subject unto and did depend upon the house of Austria The Swedes entring upon the Switzers Territores made such of their Cantons as were Roman Catholiques take up Armes who not suffering the little account the Swedes made of their Forces in the contempt whereof they had trespassed upon their liberties and the confederacy which they held with the house of Austria on which Constantz did confide as also for that they had great jealousies least the Swedes might settle themselves there and fearing their correspondency with the other Protestant Cantons a breach of Union with whom being in processe of time made they might be thereby much prejudiced they presently betooke themselves to Armes and having gathered together about 6000 Foot they complained of the Swedes ill importments and that it was suffered by the Protestant Switzers they prepared for revenge and to maintaine their liberties Lucerne and another of the Papists chiefe Cantons dispatcht away their Deputies to complain hereof to those of Zurich as being the chiefe of the Cantons and to incite them to take up Armes and to drive the Swedes out of the Helveticke Territories The Inhabitants of Zurich who by reason of their diversity of Religion their innate ill will and other politicke respects doe not onely hate the name of Austria but doe not well agree with the very Switzers themselves who are Romanists thinking for certaine that a man cannot be a good Roman-Catholique unlesse he be a good Spaniard excused themselves with pretences rationall enough and called a Dyet at Baden upon this occasion to deferre the time the meane while till Horne might have taken in Constantz but the Romanists Switzers being perswaded and instigated by those of Austria they went to Rapswille and from thence into the Country of the Abbot of Saint Gallo to assist him who having often times display'd his banners against the Crowne of Swethland in the Polaches behalfe did more then any other apprehend their neighbourhood and for that the Roman-Catholique Switzers suspected that this was a plot contrived against them by the Protestants they writ unto the King of France their Confederate desiring him to interpose his Kingly Authority that the Swedes might quit their Territories in all places they made bitter exclamations against the leading men of Zurich making them complices of what had happened Horne having commanded his Souldiers to possesse themselves of a Convent of Augustin Friers called Crutzlingen and which was a fitting place for them to lodge their Cannon for battery he reared against it two tire of Cannon each of them of foure pieces and began with fury to play upon their Wals so as having in a short time made a breach big enough for an Assault the Swedes gave on but part of a wall of a Tower that was contiguous thereunto falling downe by a Cannon-shot did so shatter the Swedes flying Bridge which was by them throwne over the Ditch and made to that purpose as they that were first got in not being seconded by their Companions the enterprise failed so as they were inforced to retire and desist from the undertaking leaving about 30 of their men behinde them and having many wounded in that action Yet must we not forget the valour of a Scotch Souldier who was of Major Generall Ruthens Troope and offered himselfe to bring some Prisoner to Horne who much desired it that hee might learne the Condition of the City this man being one of the formost ventered so forward in the breach as that laying hands on one of the Imperialists who stood in the defence thereof he dragg'd him through the Ditch and presented him to the Generall About 10000 Foot and 2000 Horse of Neopolitans Spaniards and Lumbards were at this time gathered together in the State of Milan and yet great preparations were made by the Spaniards in Lumbardy who though they made the occasion of this their Arming to be upon pretence of succouring Germany and as it had been generally noysed to conduct therewithall the Cardinall Infante who had been at Milan ever since the midst of the preceding May to the government of Flanders yet wanted there not many jealousies that this was only a piece of craft or cunning of that Nation that they might the better leavy men in Italy not so much to succour Flanders as out of an intention that if in this interim things should go well in Germany they might make use thereof in some important new affaire in that Province for many were of opinion that the Spaniards could not suffer the French in Cassalle and their Forces there so apt to disturbe their designs in Italy since thereby their pretensions of being acknowledged the Arbitrators of all the affaires between the Princes of Italy was much lessened whilst by this neighbourhood of the French the Duke of Mantua who formerly did depend upon them was discovered to be totally falne off from them and to declare himselfe openly for the French The Common-wealth of Genua was not so obsequious to them as of late it had been the Duke of Parma who had alwayes deserved well of the Crowne of Spaine and shewed himselfe partiall in that behalf had declared himselfe a free Prince and to have no dependency on them and for that the suffering of the French to get head in Italy was a diminishing of the power possessed by them so as they tooke into consideration how they might keep the Princes of Italy in their former obsequency and keep under the greatnesse of France Thus men found in their grave wisedomes that it was not yet fitting time for the Infante to part from Milan and that his going from thence was for two reasons to be deferred the one for that the Italian Forces unlesse seconded by those of the Emperour being of themselves weake and not able to overcome the Swedes who were fortified by so many Victories if they should passe over the Mountaines and not be faithfully seconded by Walesteine who was not very well satisfied with the Spaniards whereby he might not be suffered to passe further much dishonour might redound to their Army the other for that if he should goe from Milan they should not so easily finde meanes without his assistance how to order their affaires in securing themselves of the jealousies they had of France and keep the Italian Forces who formerly depended on them in their fealty It was resolved therefore that the Infant should stay at Milan and the Duke of Feria should with the Army passe over the Mountaines to relieve Brisach since that if Brisach were lost in Alsatia all their hopes were lost of ever recovering such another Province or of entring into Lorayne as it
was the Spaniards intentions to doe and this being their way to passe from Italy into Flanders they were by all meanes to endeavour the preservation thereof but for that by reason of the authoritie granted by the Emperour to Walesteine of being Generalissimo over all the Forces in Germany the Duke of Feria could not come thither with Walesteines satisfaction without having a dependency on him and the Spaniards thinking it tended to their dishonour that a Generall of theirs a Subject of so great birth should be subordinate to one who before by favour and fortune he was arrived at this height would have thought it a great honour to be Colonell under a Spanish Generall it therefore not being yeelded unto that he should depend upon any one but the Emperour though it was forseene that Walesteine would be much scandalized thereat and that some mischance might thereupon ensue yet by meanes and endeavours of the Spanish Agents at Vienna the Duke of Feria had his Pattent signed to be Captaine independant upon any one save upon the Princes of Austria The Spaniards this meane while not failing to arme afresh in Lombardy applyed themselves to raise jealousies of the French in Italy They were beyond measure troubled that Edward Farnesh Duke of Parma varying from the Maximes of his Predecessours who alwayes shewed themselves to be well affected unto and to depend upon Spain should as well in his apparell as in his Treaties follow the genius of France and that he did not adheare as his Ancestors had done to their Councells and they were much more injealousied by reason of the alliance concluded by the great Duke of Tuskany without their consent for the Duke his Father having alwayes borne respect to the Crowne of Spaine and by the advice of that King married Aldrobrandina they by the reverence of the Father challenged the same interest in the Sonne Wherefore that they might the better discover his intention they dispatcht away the Regent Villani to Parma with instructions to invite him to take upon the government of the Forces in Flanders as formerly his Uncle Duke Alexander had done a meanes whereby they thought more clearely to discover his intentions towards them who when he was come unto the Duke though he managed his negotiation with much dexteritie he at last discovered his Highnesse genius to be adverse unto the Spaniards and by his refusall to goe into Flanders and to admit of a Spanish Garrison in the Citadell of Piacenza he openly made it knowne that he would live like a free Prince and no wayes depending upon the Spaniard so as Villani bringing but a bad report of him to Milan and from thence sending the like information to Spaine his Resident received but unhandsome usage some Towns of the Piacentian Territories being pincht by Spanish Garrisons and an Agent of his being dispatcht away to the Court of Spaine that many of the Emperours Forces had been quartered in his Towns he was but hardly handled by the Kings Officers not having so much as Audience allowed him which was the first begining of the breach betweene the Spaniard and this Prince as shall in his proper place be said They could not moreover endure that the Duke of Mantua should live under the protection of and be dependent upon the Crowne of France and it was reported That they held negotiation under hand with the Infanta Marguerita that she should marry the Princesse Mary to the Infant and at the same time by forcing away that Princesse surprize Mantua and in her right to have just cause to invade Monteferrat which they easily might have done if Duke Charles who was watchfull over his owne affaires and was faithfully advertised of all their proceedings had not applyed speedy and fitting remedies thereunto for knowing the importancy of the affaire he instantly sent the Infanta Marguerita out of the Citie and taking good order for the safeguard of his businesses he made the Spanish machinations vanish into smoake and the Infanta being brought to Pavia after she had beene a while in that Citie where she was alwayes nobly treated by the Spaniards she was afterwards sent for into Spaine and declared to be the Vice-Queene of Portugall The Duke of Feria this meane while hastened his journey that he might bring ayde to Constantz which was battered by the Swedes whose losse did much grieve him for the losse thereof would soone be followed by the like of all the places thereabouts and thereby likewise the passages of Tiroll would be lost which were so much watched over by the Spaniards in regard of the state of Milan Being come in the beginning of September to Vilchirchem he tryed to passe over the Rhyn a little above the Lake towards the Grisons and to enter into the Territories of Rentall a Countrey which lyes along the said Lake on the side of Helvetia and from thence into the Countrey of S. Gallo that he might joyne with the Papists Switzers who having taken up Armes against the Protestants threatned revenge upon the Swedes but this being discovered by the Countrey people of Turgonia who suddenly tooke up Armes and went to Rhyn He that he might not the more incense those people although he mought easily have forc't his passage turned his march another way The Duke of Rohan who this meane while kept himselfe in Coira to watch over the preservation of the passages of Rhetia passing from Coira to Baden to indeavour by this interposition and the using of his Kings name the accommodation of the differences amongst the Switzers and having by his wisedome a little allayed the anger of those Cantons he went to the Campe before Constantz to speake with Horne by whom being received with all tearmes of courtesie and discoursing with him upon the present occurrences the difficultie of the enterprise appearing by reason of the continuall succours sent into the Citie by the way of the Lake he dispatch't away a Gentleman to propound unto the Governour of Constantz which was Count Volfegg a man of tryed wisedome that if he would take in a Garrison of the Switzers and deliver up the Towne into their hands he would work it so that the Swedes should give over that enterprise But this proposition carrying but little soliditie with it was quickly poised by the answer of Count Volfegg who replyed he did not thinke the Switzers were able to undertake such a worke for if they were not able to hinder the Swedes from passing over the Rhyn at Steine nor to make them quit their Territories they were lesse able to keep that which belonged not to them that the Emperour was his Master that he received Laws from noman else and that with the loyaltie that became a Gentleman of honour he would keepe the Town against whosoever as long as he had breath Rohan kept in the Swedes Campe the Papist Switzers all in Armeâ murmured mightie matters the Cannons roared the breach was proportionably made When Schamburghs Regiment
of them neighbouring places or yet receive succour from Harnem for not thinking that Walesteins designe had so long a reach he was at this time so farre from them as that he could not come unto them time enough so as these Commanders finding that they could not put themselves upon the fortune of Armes but upon great disadvantage being farre short in number to the Imperialists who were 20 Regiments of Foot and 13 of Horse and being out of all hopes of Victuals or succour which being farre off could not come time enough to serve their stead that they might not perish miserably through hunger nor runne headlong upon the desperatenesse of Battaile and so remaine victimes to the Caesarian Sword knowing that voluntary Surrenders were alwaies borne withall when safety is by no other meanes to be had the Count and Tuball together with the rest of the chiefest Captaines withdrew themselves aside and being comforted by proffers which Tersica made unto them from Walesteine who promised that if they would yeeld up unto him those places which they had in their possession he would not onely spare their lives but treat them as friends and companions necessity being that which prevailes with the most obstinate they agreed to accept his offer not seeing how otherwise they could possibly escape they therefore resolved to submit themselves to Walesteines clemency who soone after set the Count De Towre at liberty and suffered Tuball likewise to make an escape wherewithall the Court at Vienna was not well pleased which would faine have had the Count in their owne custody that as head of the Bohemian Commotions he might have received just punishment for his defaults as likewise they would gladly have had the contrary party been deprived of Tuball who was so gallant a Commander as that his worth could not but be prejudiciall to them But Walesteine who was alwayes of an uncorrupted faith and who desired to witnesse to the Elector of Saxony that his invitations to peace were indissolvable tyes of Loyalty and who desired by his curtesie and civill usage to oblige even his Enemies regulating his government by dealing gently with his adversaries to the end and that thereby working upon their affections hee might rather appease their anger then provoke them to an obstinate defence found rather that by his thus doing to purchase the ill will of the Emperours Court then falsify his word of which he was very faithfull and he was so generous in his demonstrations as if hee thought to purchase the good will of the Electors Counsellours and Officers it being naturall to all men who are not ingratefull and therein worse then Beasts to be well inclined to their Benefactors Walestein being imboldned by this so happy Victory advanced to Frankfort upon the Oder and from thence to Landsperg both which yeelded suddainly unto him for the Governours of them having order from the Elector to abandon them if the Imperialists should appeare before their Gates they obeyed him and according to his commands withdrew themselves to Kostrin Walesteine being perswaded by these prosperous successes and thinking that these his proceedings were the true meanes to moderate the Duke of Saxonies pretensions resolved to try him once more and to that end sent unto him Prince Albertus Frauciscus of Sassen-Lavemberg but his demands meeting with like successe as before he marched with his whole Army to before Gorlitz invironed with strong Rampiers and very opportunely seated on the West upon the bankes of Neisse on the Confines of Lusatia the Governour whereof not sayling in his duty though for the defence thereof he had but 800 Foot and 150 Horse with some few of the Inhabitants a small number to maintaine a place of so great circuit prepared gallantly for defence little valuing Walesteines threats yet not being able to resist a strong Assault made by the Austrians he and all his men were put to the Sword as often times befals those who warm'd in the opinion of themselves by a more then usuall presumption waste that wisedome which tempered with audacity would make a happy mixture The escape of these Commanders being divulged to have hapned by Walesteines knowledge who desirous to captivate the Enemies good will so ordered it that thereby he might manifest how hee was offended with the Spaniards and Austrian Officers made Oxesterne perceive that Walesteine being daily more incenst against the Spaniards would criple those actions which might keep up the Imperiall greatnesse For being above measure ambitious and not able to suffer that the so large Authority granted him should now be limited 't was likely he would re-assume that intestine hatred which by reason of the new acknowledgements made unto him by Caesar and by the simulation of the Austrian Ministers of State seemed to be almost quite laid aside and that some ill vapour distilling from thence he might give way unto the Swede to make advantage of these their discords by some considerable acquisition and chiefly he believed that some good might be done upon Bavaria being it was he who more watchfull then the rest and wisely knowing what prejudice Princes receive who raise their subjects to too high a pitch had ordered the meanes how Walesteines vast ambition might be moderated and who being likewise thought to be the chiefe promoter of Feria's comming it was not to be doubted but that well contented with any mischiefe that might befall that Duke Walesteine would make but slow hast to succour him making use therfore of this occasion the taking of Ratisbon was thought would prove the easiest to be effected Therefore Waymer having crost over Swabenland came to Newburg before his departure was taken notice of and unexpectedly setting upon it some Countrey-people who having recourse thither had taken upon them to defend it affrighted at the first news of the Enemies Cannon as people not accustomed to Armes they Surrendred the Towne on the 29 âh of November the Bavararian Garrison marching forth to the number of 500 Foot and 70 Horse were convoyed by the Swedes to Ingolstat from thence he speedily advanc'd to the Castle of Aichest which after having indured some Cannonshot did likewise yeeld 300 Foot marching out with their Armes and Baggage He then came to Ratisbon planted his Cannon against it and the Garrison after 18 dayes resistance made dispairing of succour and being unprovided of necessaries for they at this time dreaded not any such accident which was thought to be unpossible unlesse by meanes of some correspondency the Towne was yeelded up on the 14th of December and thus the Swedes got a great Citie upon the Danube which runs through the Town and hath a great Stone-bridge built over it and which Towne was formerly wont to boast it selfe of Franchisement and to enjoy the like priviledges as doe the other Hauns Townes in Germany but is of late much decayed it was invironed with double Walls well cimented though old fortified with half-Moones earthen Tenailes before
to shelter themselves there Walesteine being returned into Bohemia that he might honest his retreat from the businesse of Ratisbon advanced againe into Saxony and routed divers of the Electors Troopes of Horse making some other little inrodes in those parts of no great moment But because he had no minde to doe any thing to purpose instead of continuing his proceedings there though there were no great difficulty in it his Army being strong and desirous of new imploymenâs he feigned an excuse how that to keep in Saxony where there was such scarcity of Victuals and whereof the Enemy did for a good part hinder him and being obliged to be perpetually in readinesse to fight in the Winter-season wherein it was more requisite to refresh the Army then to consume it It belonged not to a wise Commander to be unmindfull of these things and therefore upon these reasons he returned to Bohemia and divided his Army in that Kingdome and in Moravia a Province comprehended in the said Kingdome of Bohemia confining upon Austria Sletia and Hungaria populous fruitfull and abounding witâ all things requisite for humane sustenance making it be noysed abroad that he this meane while prepared to come into the field with Forces able to effect his designes this was notwithstanding onely that his evill intention to that Kingdome might appeare and that he might breake the necke of the Imperiall Authority against whose Ministers of State as it is usuall with those that conceive themselves injured to be more incensed against a friend then against a stranger Walesteines minde and industry was more bent to ruine his counterfeit friends then his open enemies The Duke of Feria having made some aboad in the parts about Fussen knowing how hard a matter it would be for him to keep his Army in that Country where was great want of Victualls and Forradge since his men were not accustomed to the German labour and toyle where contrary to the practise of Italy and Flanders the Country being spacious and having but few Forts in it the Souldier doth for the most part keep the Field and is more accustomed to Field-Battailes then to besieging strong holds resolved to go into Bavaria and winter in that Country wherein was great store of Corne and Hay He therefore spoke thereof to the Duke who though he desired not more Forreiners in his Country by whom subjects usually receive nothing but losse yet he being a very religious Prince and who kept still loyall to the Emperour setting aside all particular respects where the common cause came in question would make it appeare how firme his heart stood to the service of the Roman-Religion and the house of Austria he was moreover the sooner drawne to yield to this request by reason of the need he stood of helpe against the Swedes and for that the Spaniards assistance was requisite to suppresse Walesteine whose indeavours tending onely to his ruine had brought him to a hard condition He therefore was contented to receive him into his dominions which happened to the greater satisfaction of his subjects then was imagined for they much apprehending the Swedish excursions were very well pleased with this comming of the Spaniards who kept very good order in their treating the people nay they so civilly comported themselves as that the former feare they had of the name Spaniard they being by such as dreaded them and were envious of the glory of that Nation given out to be proud insolent and greedy of what belonged to others they now found that nation as civilly behaved and full of curtesie as the extent thereof is large in Command and to be more lovingly quiet and more to be borne withall then any other so as they were very well contented with their company and so much the more as that monies being currant the Country-people injoyed that by war which oft-times they want in peace Walesteines retreat from Saxony did not more trouble his jealous Competitors then did his negligence in comming to succour Ratisbon and in the after recovery of it For thereby it was firmely conceived the scope he aimed at was how he should withdraw himselfe from his obedience to Caesar and to necessitate the Dutch-men to unkennell the Spaniards as well from out of the Provinces of the Empire as out of the Court at Vienna that so he might rest absolute in his command and in the authoritie which he was more ambitious of then was his Master therefore were the Spaniards the worse inclined towards him for as it is usuall for diffidence to feare every shadow so did these men aime at nothing else nor did they in their secret Councell commune about ought save how to humble him And though his actions were in some sort justifiable by the Maximes of Warre by which it seemed he did well in retreating into Bohemia out of the feare he might have of Harnem who was desirous to quarter his Forces in that Kingdome yet because what the mind is once possest of is not easily extirpated this impression was by these reasons so radicated as it began to make even those doubt him who till then had stood very partiall in his defence who wanting now meanes how to maintaine his proceedings lest they might partake in blame with him for offences of high Treason are of so catching a condition as that they infect even the innocence of such as doe protect the guiltie faced about and began rather to respect their owne offices and places which they held under the Emperour then to consider their sickly and unstable hopes in him whose onely name made such hatefull as pleaded in his defence Wert having in vaine indeavoured to surprise Olims his quarters joyned himselfe with the Baron of Sois a Colonell of the Roman League and marched to Vilshoven upon the Danube betweene Possaw and Straubing and Duke Waymer finding the enterprise of Possaw to be difficult as well by reason of the naturall situation thereof as for that all the Militia that was thereabouts came in to the defence of it parted from thence and leaving 4000 Foot betweene Straubing and Ratisbon passed all his Force beyond the Danube and the Swedes perceiving that the multiplicitie of Commanders of severall Nations and differing opinions in an Army would not suffer their enterprises to take any good effect whilst envy was a hindrance to opportunities whilst glory ranne too head-long into ambition and self-interest was mixt in all their actions one Captaine disliking what another did and every one thinking himself fitter then his Companion for the charge conferred on his Colleague to avoyd these inconveniencies a generall assembly of the United States and Cities was called to re-establish the League of all the Confederates and to resolve upon such Provisions as were behofefull for the Warre or else to put on a last resolution of Peace And moreover for that it was necessary to have a Generalissime who should command in chiefe the Protestant Forces they maturely consulted hereupon
title of disloyall and ungratefull on the other side it presented unto his eyes his own fear the danger of calumny the Spaniards hatred his enemies emulation and the desire of revenge so as involved in these considerations sorrowing that the greatnesse of his eminent fortune should make his downefall the greater he narrowly weighed with these men the present emergency and having wisely ponderated the imminent danger he chose a meanes very proper to plead in his behalfe and which in some sort might make him seeme excusable were not the prerogative which Soveraignes hold over their vassalls too Supreme he then discoursing upon the instabilitie of fortune which oft-times abandons those who thought they had had her surest by the fortop and upon the incertaintie of the Planets which rarely effect those things to which they seeme to encline complained of the Spanish Ministers of State laying ingratitude and ambition to their charge affirming that when ever they prefer a servant of theirs they prepare his precipice so much the deeper by how much higher he is exalted that their reasons though in appearance leaning upon the Policy of State are produced by their owne proper interests whose maxime hath in it such ambition as that they declare all that live independent thereupon guiltie of high Treason He moreover taxed the Dutch Ministers of State that were neere the Emperour of dulnesse and unadvisednesse in having suffered that Nation to get footing in the Court saying they were not well verst in the negotiation of those places they were possessed of for that let the necessitie be what it please it is never good to admit the Officers of one Prince into another Princes Government and especially those that to boot with their owne pretensions that they may the better maintaine their owne conceptions and for the respect they desire should be borne unto them adde the upbraiding of the assistance they have given and good turnes they have done He spared not in his discourse some Monasticks who being displeased with him as he said for his rewarding the Souldiers with what the Souldiers got and not suffering them to partake thereof as formerly had beene used nay more for his totally discarding them from having any thing to doe in his affaires imposing upon them their attendance upon Gods Service and the doing their owne duties declared him to be an Heretick as for these he said they deserved correction and not to be fomented since their pretensions were now growne to that height that nothing was to be done wherein they were not to have a finger He murmured against the Duke of Bavaria and breaking forth into bitter speeches he declared how the Politicall part of that Prince was so interessed as that from thence proceeded all the past and present miseries and for that his hatred was more bent against him then any other he charged him with many things to make his Commanders know his accusations proceeded not from malice but out of intire loyaltie and principally he accused him of little good will to the Emperour by being the meanes of withdrawing from Caesar the strength of those Forces which whilst governed by him Walesteine awed Germany and kept all the Princes and States of the Empire within the bounds of dutie wherein if they had still continued those miseries had never beene which had of late beene tasted he affirmed that this Duke had conspired against his person not so much for that he saw him a so much dreaded Generall as for that he had never given his consent that the title of Elector Palatinate should be conferred upon him nor yet that his Dominion should be so much inlarged for that he well fore-saw the Emperour would never enjoy peace thereby since the Protestant power suffering thereby violence which was fomented by two great Crownes France and England he would not quietly enjoy the Palatinate according to Hidra's heads one head being struck off another would rise up in its place for it was certainly knowne the Protestants would never suffer that honour to depart from one of their profession nor yet would forreigne Potentates suffer that Prince to be driven out who being upheld by many props as well within as out of Germany was almost able to counterpoise the Imperiall greatnesse which being now annext unto the power of Spaine makes all Europe not a little jealous he accused him to have assisted and consented unto the comming of Feria as independent on him not for the publique good but for his extirpation plainly discovering that the restraining an authoritie granted is a signe of suspition from whence many evills take their rise since thereby the good will of well-doers suffers an allay In briefe as it is usuall with emulation to make appearances seeme substances Walesteine rather envying this Princes greatnesse and his solid wisedome then invited by any just occasion of blame in him who was ever knowne to be a wise Prince full of goodnesse and loyaltie towards Caesar spoke thus of him But afterwards comming to resolve upon what was to be done he agreed with them that they should divulge it throughout the Army how that he finding how his actions were falsly interpreted at the Court in Vienna was resolved to quit his charge and to betake himselfe to a private life wherein wisemen rest secure from passions of the mind and from such downfalls as envy layes traps for in other mens actions that they should shew unto the other heads of the Army and to the whole Souldiery how much they should be indammaged if this should happen that they should murmure against the injurious Officers and evill Counsellours which had possest themselves of Caesars eare who being desirous to enjoy the reward which belongs to the labour of valiant and well-deserving Subjects indeavoured to loosen their hands of gratitude which were bound up by his authoritie in disposing of what was gotten to deserving Souldiers and not to Jesters or Court-flatterers that they should likewise give out that the Spaniards Plotted his ruine for no other end but that as they had obtained their share in Counsells they might likewise get the charge and command over the Souldiers to make them slaves to their ambition that whilst they had need of his wealth to be imployed in the raysing of an Army and of his credit in perswading the people to serve the Empire faithfully his actions were commended and so received as that infinite promises were made and obligations acknowledged but these ceasing the memory of al past-benefits vanisht to ayre that these new Counsellors envied their companions greatnes and did no sooner find out any good place but they streightway sought how to possesse themselves of it he said it was an experimented case that some make use of their servants no otherwise then husbandmen doe of their Cattell which after long and laborious service are brought to the Shambles that his affection towards the Souldier was not unknowne to them how liberally he used to make them
he met with some Companies of Crabats who by orders from Gallasse kept those wayes and knew not what had happened in Egra nor of the agreement they had a great skirmish together and the Crabats meeting with hard measure were fain to fly for t whereby Waymer being aware of the plot returned backe to his former quarters This newes of Walesteines death and of the other great Commanders being presently known at Vienna and every where divulged did much rejoice such whose mindes were troubled in this perplexity but if such as were faithfull to the Empire were glad hereof those who sided with Walesteine and were his friends were not so for hereby all their designes were cut off nor yet were the Curious satisfied herewithall for matter being likely to arise from such novelties as would please an itching eare they desired not the occasion thereof should be taken away Some that wisht not well to the Austrian party would declare him to be innocent and gave out that the Spaniards had wrongfully accused him and to no other end then to bereave him of that Authority which being independent on them did not please them that they had butcher'd him for that they very well knew hee being full of exalted thoughts which would not suffer him to comply with their intentions nor yet to permit that Forrayners should be entertained to doe that which those of the Nation were able to effect they feared they should not long injoy what they had possest themselves of in Germany where they exceedingly desired to be esteemed of for the Spaniards thinke no man can governe himselfe wisely unlesse assisted by their wily craft Others discoursing upon the grounds of past examples concluded that if Walesteine had been resolved to violate his faith unto his Master he was of so quick a spirit and foresight and was possest of so plenary an Authority as he might easily have effected any thing he had intended Others said that making use of this pretence he cald to minde the injury that was done him in having his charge formerly taken from him without any demerit of his and that therefore he had not forgot revenge Some conceived that he being extraordinarily proud and excessively ambitious of honour could no longer content himselfe with his present condition but that he aimed at the Kingdome of Bohemia though this opinion was moderated by others upon well-grounded reasons for that he was already well in yeares and almost impotent he wanted issue male nor was he likely to have any his honour and reputatition was already sufficiently well grounded the Characters whereof should be registred in memory and that therefore he could not thinke to obscure the glory of his past fidelity with a thought of a short injoying that the event whereof was uncertaine and the infamie certaine Others said that the desire of growing greater blindfolds mens understandings obfuscates their senses and withdrawes the eyes even of the wisest men fixing them onely upon the desired Object that therefore there being few that can resist the force of their affectionâ and see the gulfe or whirlepoole which keeps neer unto their transcendent greatnesse they unexpectedly slip downe thereinto and that it had thus befalne Walesteine in the quiet condition of his present estate and not contented with the honours and greatnesse which he had acquired The truth was for what may be gathered from considerate men that Walesteine not being satisfied with the Spaniards and Duke of Bavaria for the reasons aforesaid and much suspecting their cunning bethought himselfe how he might best fence himselfe from their blowes and make Germany see how evilly the Emperour was counselled in bringing in of auxiliary Forces whilst he with his owne Forces promised to supply what was needfull desiring that the aid from Spaine might be received in Monies and not in men since Authority is bounded by independent Forces and that therefore as his chiefe end he neither consented to joyne with the Swedes nor openly to rebell against the Emperour But that pretending as Duke of Mechelberg to be a soveraigne Prince and that the Militia paid by his Monie belonged properly to him going off from his charge with the Souldiers that depended on him 't is conceived that by making a third party hee would become a looker on and see where the businesse would end and that which side so ever should seeke for succours from him should be inforced to give him such Conditions as he would desire And for that his confidence in the Emperours goodnesse bereft him of that consideration which ought with well-weighed wisedome to be sounded by men powerfull in Authority he was not aware that the affections of Princes by how much the higher and more unaccessible they are so much the easier are they to be overwhelmed into the hatred of State-jealousies he supposed to reduce Caesar to the necessity of giving him satisfaction by driving out those Forreiners and preserving the Authority which he had granted him but neither daring nor willing impetuously to hazard himselfe upon a point the end whereof was uncertaine and whereby the name of disloyall would certainly bee purchased he temporised in an appearing distaste perswading himselfe out of his ambitious confidence and selfe presumption to reap consolation the which he did firmly beliefe thinking it was not then time to displease him nor that any other could undergoe the great weight of that charge since that his actions appeared alwayes to be very faithfull till that after Feria's comming they began to be somewhat slow in ordinary services and for that the interest of Princes are like purest Christall which is dimm'd and rendred obscure by the least breath and that verball counsells are of more force then those that are conveyed by the pen it was the opinion of many that those who did then possesse Caesars eare tooke opportunity by colourable appearances to make Walesteines actions seem suspitious and to make the Emperours Councell be of the same opinion Many approve hereof by this that if he had totally resolved to forgoe his obedience to the Emperour and side against him he as a wise man and mightily followed would not have given such evidence of his intent State-affaires being of so nice a nature that bare appearances therein appeare reall substances but that concealing his desire under feigned dissimulation he would upon some fitting occasion have withdrawne himselfe from the service together with his chiefe Commanders and Souldiers very well affected to him and that he would have done this so as that the Swedes and Saxons believing him should have come in unto his aid And this was approved of by the testimony of the Swedish Generals who being asked concerning this businesse by men of no common account could not say otherwise But be it how it will the businesse is weighty and worthy of remembrance so as I thinke it not fitting to leave it here abruptly off but by making a short digression to acquaint the reader with some of
entertained by the Infanta and being furnisht with Monies and all things requisite they went to reside at Florence and in this case remain'd the begun misfortunes of that house which as formerly it had vaunted it selfe to be envied for its happinesse appeared now to be prosecuted by fortune as much as any other whatsoever And by this vicissitude it is proved how unstable humane constancy is how flattering hope is false and what folly is in the best wits The chiefe French Commanders who were quartered every where in that Dukedome upon the newes hereof flockt to Nancy newes was sent to the King The Marshall de la Force was this meane while drawing neer to la Motta to force the Garrison thereof to yeeld if he should not obtaine it by Commission from the Duke when hearing what had happened he delayed not to come before it to raise his batteries and on the fifth of Aprill began to play upon the Towne wherein the Baron d'Ische commanded in Chiefe a valiant Gentleman and who playing reciprocally upon the French shewed he had no mind to yeeld the Towne Prince Thomas was at this time imployed in the government of Cambray and Savoy who incited by his sprightly courage thinking that his Martiall Genius would be suffocated by keeping quiet within the precincts of those Mountaines whilst Warre was waged in all parts else and remembring that nothing doth more prejudice a lively Prince then idlenesse resolved to betake himselfe to some imployment wherein he might exercise his valour whereupon since the Spaniards who exceedingly desire to have the Princes of Italy their stipendaries aswell to draw them to side with them as to make their service seem the more honourable had often times invited him to take upon him the place of his late Brother Prince Philiberto or else the government of the Flanders Forces he resolved at last to accept of their offer Hee therefore consented to take upon him that imployment left Cambray and passing into Burgundy went from thence to Brussels having sent his Wife the Princesse of Corigniano together with his Children to Milan This Princes suddaine departure afforded matter of discourse to the curiosity of our newes-mongers some would have it that he had thus secretly absented himselfe out of some privat distate hee had taken at the Duke his Brother others thought hee thuâ indeavoured to better his condition invited thereunto by glory and desire to change the government of Savoy for that of Flanders others that were more speculative would not sticke to say that this was done by the privity of the Duke his Brother who was thought by many that though he outwardly appeared to be well affected to the French yet that inwardly hee depended upon the Spanish party so as they thought this his departure was not without the consent of his Brother but covertly cloaked lest he might cause jealousie in the French who were ready openly to declare themselves against the Spaniards The Austrians aswell in Vienna as in all other places were this mean while diligent in providing for the present emergencies and more particularly the Spaniards used all possible meanes to provide for all necessaries for the Field and they imployed all their indeavours that since the place of Generalissimo which was conferred upon the King of Hungary concern'd them in reputation he might performe some notable piece of service To this purpose some Regiments commanded by Colloredo were made to advance towards Slesia where having possest themselves of a great part of the Country they recovered the Citie and Castle of Olss situated in a large plaine between the Oder the Bartsch begirt about with Ditches Wals it made no defence but yeelded upon discretion and the Garrison being 500 Souldiers took service under the Emperours Colours And for that the businesse of Ratisbon was that which most troubled the Spaniards they resolved to indeavour the recovery thereof aswell that they might satisfie the Duke of Bavaria as likewise to honest their owne Counsels for they knew the name of this Citie was famous for the many Dyets had been held therein and therefore the taking of it would sound wel in the peoples eares and would win reputation to the forces of a King who would not be much cried-up should hee meet with misfortune at the first entrance into his government Besides they thought the enterprise would not bee very difficult the Towne being unprovided of necessaries the Country and strong Holds round about it possest by Romanists and it not being in a Condition to resist an Army since it was not perfectly and according to the rules of Fortification walled about or defended nor could be succoured by the Swedes without evident danger difficulty and disadvantage All requisite preparations were made in Austria as also in all other Provinces belonging to the Emperour and his friends to effect so important a businesse wherein so much of reputation lay and so much the rather for that it seemed a shamefull thing to every body that a place not very strong and in the heart of the Romanists Territories should have it in a Garrison of such as were of a repugnant beliefe The Landgrave of Hessen who was with his Army as this time about Hidelshâime did draw neerer unto it And the losse of this place being like to prove a great blow to the Romanists the Elector of Coln perswaded Benecawsem who was Marshall of the Field to succour it by all meanes possible the which though he knew it would be a difficult matter he indeavoured but to no purpose for he was beaten back by the Swedes with some losse in his Reare so as the besieged seeing themselves but in a sad condition failing of their expected succour and thinking that they had done all that their honour did oblige them unto they soone after delivered up that good Citie upon honourable conditions into the hands of the Landsgraves Commanders marching forth with flying Colours Drums beating two piece of Cannon 1700 Foot and 350 Horse The delay of Miminghen had opened the passages of Swabenland and secured the Swedes behind on that part But Horne who knew it would be hard for him to keepe in that Countrey if he should not first make himselfe Master of some place upon the Lake of Constantz and Lindaw being a place not to be then indeavoured by reason of the situation and the strength thereof it being well guarded and much valued by the Austrians and finding Constantz impossible to be taken he thought upon the taking of Vberlinghen which though there were divers circumstances which would render it hard to be taken notwithstanding invited by some intelligence hee held with some of the Protestant inhabitants and comforted by hope which makes men carefull in what they goe about he resolved to try his fortune He to this purpose moved with his Army from their severall quarters and marched thitherward came with 8000 fighting men and 12 piece of Cannon before the Towne and within
the Duke of Savoy from whence some new commotions might have risen were composed hee renewed the League with the Papists Switzers and in courteous manner received Embassies which were sent to him from all the Princes of Italy to congratulate his arrivall Amongst which one must not be forgot which farre exceeded for pompe and glory all others in our memories sent at any time from any King whatsoever not onely to Milan but to any other part and this was the Embassy of Signior Bertucci Valier a noble Senator of the most illustrious state of Venice who appeared in such splendor as he sufficiently proved that the greatnesse and magnificency of that Republique most illustriously represented by those that represented her hath âone in Europe that can equall her Ninety Companies of Foot and 25 Troopes of Horse being brought into the state of Milan under the command of the Marquis of Liganes the Duke of Nocera Prince of S. Severo Marquis Fiorenza Count de Langia Matteo Rocales Gasparo Baraldi Peter Cardanes Marquis Lonaso Maestro di Campo Guasco and Gambacorto the Infanta resolved upon his departure for Flanders and his going was now thought the more opportune for asmuch as it was not then time to doe any new thing in Italy against the French nor yet to hinder the Imperiall Forces in Germany from such a succour for the warre being mannaged by the Spaniards advice those Ministers of state were resolved to make it appeare that as by their meanes and Counsell Walesteines treachery was cut off together with his life in the very rise thereof so having unfetterd the Caesarian Authority they were able to maintaine the Imperiall Crowne 'T was added that the Swedes being at varience between themselves and thereby their numbers lessened they would be brought to a bad bargaine when they should be pursued by a powerfull Army and though some objected the consideration of the French Forces from whence it was affirmed the Swedes would not faile to be re-inforced yet their owne interest being concerned 't was supposed they would never succour the Swedes to any purpose till they had such places as were possessed by the Swedes upon the Rhyn in their hands but since as yet the Swedes were resolute not to quit them 't was likely they would be unwillinger to doe soe when by the assistance of the French they should be remitted into their former condition of strength whence it was foreseen that the French under pretence of not first breaking with Spaine and by reason of the Duke of Orleans absence out of the Kingdome who was then in the Spaniards hands would rather chuse to reduce the Swedes to such necessity as that they must be inforced to assigne over unto them those Townes so as they might become masters thereof without drawing a Sword then that they would foment their greatnesse The Spaniards then past over the Mountaines in Italy and the Infanta being come to Inspruch hasted to Lints whither the Queen of Hungary was come to meet her Brother whom when he had seen he together with his Brother in Law and chiefe Heads of the Army held a Councell to advise what course was best to be taken in the present conjuncture of time The Dutch-men were of opinion that pursuing what they had begun they should march boldly against the Saxons alledging that the Elector surprised by the imminent danger and wanting the Swedes succour would easily be brought to thinke of Peace without the which since they could not freely keep the field with such advantage as was desired they were to imploy their Counsels their Forces to that purpose they added that though Waymer and Horne should come in to their succour the way into Bavaria being open and all their Forces brought into Saxony the seat of Warre would be in that Electorate without hazarding that the French should be compel'd to come in to the succour of the Swedes so as they might not come to an open breach with them But the Spaniards and the Duke of Bavaria who thought it better and more opportune advice to march with their Forces against the grosse body of the Swedes whose weakning would the better facilitate the accommodation with Saxony and that for the honour of their Armes they were bound to goe into Flaunders where in many respects as well of the Infanta his presence as of the recruiting those parts 't was needââll the Forces destin'd for their owne desence should first be imployde before they should be consumed in the service of the Emperour and the Duke of Bavaria adhering in opinion to the Spaniards as that which was best grounded for to boot with the feare he had of the Swedes who lay upon the Frontiers of his State it complyde with his interest that those Forces should be disperst which were intertained in many of his Townes and the one and the other of them being desirous that they should march with their Army thitherward alledging moreover that Saxony would never make any considerable progresse into Bohemia by reason of their Commanders slothfulnesse who were more given to drinke then to fight they prevailed so much by their arguments as they brought the King to resolve upon his returne to the Danube and to goe against such Townes as were possest by the Swedes He therefore presently faced about and came unexpectedly before Dunawert against which he made two gallant assaults which the defendants not being able to resist the Towne was storm'd and the greatest part of the Garrison put to the Sword The Swedish Generalls who lay incampt betweene Dunawert and Auspurg and hearing the newes of Dunawert being taken and foreseeing that their longer abode in Bavaria would be prejudiciall to them they resolved that Waymer should retreat towards Lavingen a place neere the Danube betweene Dunawert and Vlm and should encampe himselfe thereabouts and that Horne that he might have an eye to the proceedings of the Infanta's Army which was quartered about Fussen should goe to betweene the Iser and the Leech with intention to hinder the Spaniards from joyning with the Imperialists and to advance further when the Ringrave should be come up unto him who being with above 7000 good Souldiers in the Dukedome of Wirtenberg he had timely advertisement to advance into Swabenland so as by his assistance Horn might keep the Field with lesse feare of danger But competition betweene Commanders being that which of all other things doth most retarde victory and is the ruine of Armies were it either the will of God or the Swedes misfortune the bad effects thereof were sufficiently shewed upon this occasion For the Ringrave seeming and but seeming as if he would joyne with him that he might not be under anothers command this was one of the chiefe reasons of the ruine of the Swedish Forces By reason of the Treatie at Ratisbon wherein so large and faire conditions were granted by the Austrians who made use of this bait to bring such to be in love with their civill
demeanure who formerly exasperated by the severe usage of former Ministers of State would never be brought to comply with them divers Imperiall Cities and in particular Nurenberg which was then brought to a bad condition their Traffique being hindred wherewithall the greatest part of the Inhabitans did maintaine themselves and a great scarcity of Victualls being amongst them by the devastation of the Countrey and adjacent parts made by the Armies insomuch as that they payd halfe a Florin for a loafe of bread and a Dollar for a pottle of Wine the Citizens thereof began to move a Treatie of agreement with Caesar making use of this pretence to honest and cloake their faultinesse that they had joyned with the Swedish partie to no other end but for the maintenance of their libertie of Conscience Priviledges and Franchises which they had so many yeares enjoyed and that when they should be listened unto in these their pretensions by the Emperour they would balke all other occasions of violating their Oath and doe homage to him and that they had had sufficient experience that to deliver ones selfe up into the protection of another Prince was a totall for-going of their obedience to their chiefe Soveraign and a prejudicial subjection of themselves to a worser as their state had too well made proof of whilst by having recourse unto the King of Swethland a Prince in appearance very affectionate to his Friends they had purchased the destruction of their Territories the consumption of their Arsenalls and the ruine of all their affaires with an undoubted certaintie that when the King should have brought all Germany under him they should be otherwise treated then by the Imperialists For that Princes who are ambitious of greatnesse retaine nothing in memory save onely what in the present may make for their advantage By reason of the resolution taken at the Dyet at Franckfort by the Protestant partie of making Duke Waymer Generall of the Forces of the union 't was said that the Duke of Saxony grew likewise jealous and that moreover he was not well satisfied with Oxesternes government who he thought did not proceed with him in so sincere a manner as he ought and that the Contributions which were had from the Associate Provinces were not divided amongst the Souldiers as they ought to be but converted to the private use of the Swedish Commanders who were suspected to send into Swethland to their owne homes what they got in Germany whereat the Dutch were not a little troubled whilst they saw another remote Countrey clothed with their spoyles These allegations were likewise occasioned by particular envy which usually reigning amongst States-men and Chiefetaines who are ambitious to be thought the only Christalls wherein the actions of other men ought to be seene had at this time given some signes of the Dukes no great good affected intelligency with the Swedes Whereupon the Austrians making use hereof indeavoured againe by new propositions and proffers to draw this Prince to conclude a Peace upon whose example did depend the other Confederate States and Cities of Germany and to this purpose Deputies were sent from both sides to Pern a Citie on the side of Elb above Dresden where though the Imperialists used all the skill they could to overcome whatsoever oppositions yet was it not possible to allay the Electors distrust and diffidence nor to satisfie his pretensions so as this indeavour proving likewise vaine they continued in their hostility Horne was this meane while come with his Army to Myndelheim to watch over the Spaniards proceedings who gave out that they would goe into the upper Swabenland and into Alsatia When Waymer being advertised that the Imperialists after the taking of Dunawert marched towards Norlinghen one of the chiefe Cities in Swabenland situated in a large plaine begirt with Rampired Walls and strong Towers hastened his march to come and joyne with Horne the which he did at Gutemsberg a place neere the Danube betweene Lavingen and Vlm at the same time when the Caesarians appeared first before Norlinghen Where the Swedes suddenly resolved to passe over the Danube at Lipheim a Towne not farre from Gutemsberg and to incampe themselves in the mouth of the Valley of Rems which is a plaine of about two miles in breadth betweene the Mountaines beginning at the end of the Norlinghen Champian and extends it selfe into the Dukedome of Wirtenberg towards Baling that they might the better secure the Dukedome of Wirtenberg the maintaining whereof was of great advantage to them for all other adjacent parts being ransacked they could onely from hence have Victualls and Forrage for their Armies And because they thought this the most convenient seat not onely to succour Norlinghen but other places of consideration in Swabenland and Franconia they tooke their way through the Territories of Haidnhaim which is a Countrey along the River Brents which is a Countrey upon the Confines of Swabenland towards Wirtenberg and went to Aulen a Towne not farre from thence where though they received advertisement the Count Strozz and Iohn De Wert were gone with a good strength of Horse from the Imperiall Campe to set upon Valerspach and other places of Franconia they would notwithstanding lose no time but went the next day towards Bapsinghen upon the Confines of Swabenland towards Wirtenberg that they might there take their readiest advantage and bring reliefe into the Citie in which march they met with some Imperiall Troopes wherewith they skirmished cut many of them in pieces and tooke some prisoners The Swedes being come to Bapsinghen they the next morning possest themselves of the neighbouring Hill where long consultation was had touching what they were for the present to do Waymer was of opinion that they were to set upon the Caesarian Campe and provoke them to battell but Horne and many other chiefe Officers were of another mind and advised contrary to what Waymer had propounded who notwithstanding persisting in his opinion and being seconded therein by Offcherchin Lieutenant Generall of the Horse 't was resolved that the next morning Waymers Horse which made the right wing of the battell should advance to a straight and incommodious passage in face of the Enemies Campe who were already possest of all the most advantagious neighbouring Avenues to discover whether or no they might passe that way without danger the which being effected they presently found the difficultie greater then they had imagined by reason of Iohn De Werts return who was sent for back from the enterprize of Valerspach by which meanes the Imperialists did much exceed them in numbers wherfore they agreed not to try a battell at that time but onely to send some recruits into the Citie to incourage the Governour and Inhabitants thereof and to exhort them to expect the arrivall of the Ringrave and Cratzs upon whose comming they should be sure to be succoured 200 Musquetiers were therefore conveyed into the Towne by Hornes Horse who went himselfe to the very
Lorayne towards Alsatia and Burgundy was also taken and that whole Province being reduced that great head-piece began to thinke of new Achievements in Alsatia when things should succeed more opportunely and to prepare the fittest meanes to march with their Forces into Italy if the peace should at any time be broken The French therefore gathering together all their Forces which were dispersed about Lorayne marched with them towards the Frontiers of Alsatia not without some jealousie in the Austrians who fear'd lest they might joyne with the Swedes of whom likewise there wanted not some apprehensions for the French seeing them held in play by the Caesarian Forces thought to get into Filisburg by force if they could not prevaile by faire meanes Their end notwithstanding as was conceived by Polititians was neither to declare Warre at this time against the Austrians neither yet to distaste the Swedes but as Arbitrators of the businesse in Germany the proceedings both of the Swedes and Austrians depending upon the ballance of their Forces to keepe themselves attentive spectators upon the fall of the one or other of them carrying the matter so as whether the Swedes should winne or lose they without entring into Warre might reape advantage thereby For the Kingdome of France being then all of a piece and therefore become the most formidable power of all Christendom if the Austrians should prevaile they would be able to uphold the Swedish partie and such strong holds as by such an accident should be put into their hands by the Swedes they might easily keep them and if the Swedes should be victorious the apprehended Austrian greatnesse growing weaker they saw they were sufficient to enlarge their owne Empire and to keepe the Swedes within the limited bounds of power so as France being well enough pleased with the falling out of others that so she might inhaunce and keepe intire her owne strength through their ruines it was clearely discerned that their intentions were neither to denounce Warre against the Spaniards nor yet to foment the Swedes but conditionally For if they should have denounced Warre to boot with the former alledged reasons concerning the Duke of Orleans absence it was to be considered that the breaking of peace without occasion given would adhibite faith to what was already suspected that the French intended to pluck downe the Spanish greatnesse and by the ruines thereof the more to aggrandise their own Monarchy and that which imported more then all the rest that the Austrian Force being counterpoised by the French-mens declaring of themselves 't was easily discerned that the Swedes having the way opened to proceed on to further greatnesse they would consequently be more confirmed in their resolution of not parting with the Townes upon the Rhyn nor yeeld to give the French such content as they desired Whereupon if the French should indeavour by force of Armes to make them forgoe their obstinacy it would be a meanes to make a pacification betweene the Swedes and the Emperour and to their no little prejudice incite them against themselves or by holding with them to rest contented with what they could purchase of themselves at the great expence of money and blood And because the French knew the great ill will that the Lorayners bare them to shun all insurrections they resolved onely to keepe Nancy La Motta and Bitsch and to throw open the Gates of all the other Cities walled Townes and Castles of that state which were 36 in number and to prevent any mischiefe that might happen at Nancy the Inhabitants were disarmed and at Nostre-Dame gate a Citadell of foure Bulworkes was erected In Italy where in due time 't was doubted their Armies might fall on they gave in Commission to Duke Crequi who was dispatcht from Rome that he should go to all the Princes and Potentates there under pretence of Visit Complements and ratification of his Majesties good intelligence with them but indeed secretly to informe himselfe how they stood affected towards his most Christian Majestie and where he should find any appearance of aversenesse that he should wisely indeavour to worke upon their affections by promises and by making his Kings good intentions knowne unto them making his agreement so with them that upon any occasion they might favour him and that he should invite them to an offensive League against the Spaniards in the State of Milan as the place which lyes open to the commerce of the Emperours Forces and the maine Body of their strength being thither reduced kept the neighbouring states in continuall jealousies He therefore went to Florence and though he had no hope to obtaine any thing of the great Duke by reason of his relation to the house of Austria yet to palliate the intentions of his other Visits 't was thought fit in all respects both of decency and faire correspondency that he should goe to that Court to make all his other Embassyes seeme but Complementall without futher causing jealousie in the Spaniard From thence he went to Venice where having stayd two moneths he found those wise Senators desirous to preserve the publique peace of Italy and constant in alwayes keeping good intelligence with his Majestie of France rather willing to be mediators for publique tranquilly then authors of new turmoyles Having tane leave at Venice where he admired the greatnesse of their regalities and the splendid manner of their treating he went to Mantua where being worthily received by Duke Charles and assured of his great good inclination to the Crowne of France he passed on to Parma to visit the Duke thereof whom he found full of high and generous thoughts and one who being a sprightly Prince was not contented to passe away his time in idlenesse a thing despised by exalted minds and having filled his Highnesse with vast hopes and assured him of his Kings assistance in keeping him independent upon the Spaniards and confirmed him in his good will to France and to that purpose agreed upon what was knowne fitting for the Dukes interest he followed on his journy to Pyemont and there passing over the Mountaines returned to France The Swedes vast hopes being ship-wrack't in the battell at Norlinghen and they knowing themselves to be reduced to such a condition as they could no longer with safetie keepe in such places âs were by them Garrison'd the Garrisons were drawn out at Biberach Bucorn Cell Rinfelt Friburg and from all other places where the Swedes had any by the Ringraves order who was then Chiefe Commander of the Forces in Alsatia and all these which might amount to the number of 3000. being added to the other 6000. the said Ringrave had with him and which were not in the battell the Swedish Commanders knowing it was impossible for them to keepe longer in those parts withdrew themselves to before Strasburg that they might hault tâere under the protection of that Citie reputed one the strongest of all Germamany that they might re-assemble in the best sort they could their
to purchase an accommodation with Caesar upon better tearmes then formerly he shewed himselfe more inclinable to peace then in the preceding Treaties which the Imperiall Agents perceiving and pressing for a conclusion the Heads were signed unto and the former correspondency with that Prince re-assumed with the applause and to the content of all the Saxonists who had beene much consumed in that Warre The Heads of the Agreement were That the exercise of Religion being left free save in the Emperours Hereditary Territories the Elector should be permitted peacefully to possesse for 50 yeares yet to come all such Goods of the Church as he was now possest of which time being expired those differences were to be decided by the Sword of Justice not of Warre That three Towns in the Bishoprick of Magdeburg should remaine at his disposall and that the Prince his Sonne should be Aministrator of the said Magdeburg and should enjoy the Principalitie of Lutzenitz That reasonable Levyes of Moneyes should be made throughout the whole Empire for satisfaction of the Crowne of Swethland if they would accept of this peace And that those should be satisfied who should renounce what was given them And that such as would not agree unto this peace should be enforced thereunto onely by the Emperour without the Electors intermedling therein And that all the Princes as well Romanists as Protestants should be put againe into possession of their owne Estates Auspurg was at this time in great scarcitie of Victualls by reason of the absence of the Swedish Forces and the passages which were possest by the Imperialists in so much as dayly many perished for hunger and despairing of succour for that the Protestant Forces were farre off and they themselves much weakned by their past-sufferings the Senate thereof induced by necessitie resolved to flye for clemency to the Emperour And though they had beene heinously peccant against the Emperour and Duke of Bavaria yet found they such usage from them as they would hardly have found from other Princes for indeed their goodnesse hath ever beene very exemplary towards all such as implored their pardon Their Commissioners were graciously received in Stucart by the King of Hungary and after some dayes Treatie their requests were yeelded unto They were permitted to exercise their Religion and were sentenced to pay 50000 Dollars to the the Duke of Bavaria by vertue whereof on the 28th of March 20. Companies of Swedes marched out of the Towne who were convoyed to Erfurt and 1500 Imperiall Foot were taken in under the command of Count Fucari This meane while the Duke of Rohan was falne from Lorayne into Alsatia where he tooke Raffach by storme When Commissary Bullion who had private directions to goe along with Monsieur De Lande Embassadour and Governour of the French Forces which were in Rhetia to the enterprise of the Valteline for the carriage of which affaire not onely secresie was requisite but such circumspect proceedings as might not give any occasion of suspition to the Spaniards who as being neerer at hand might have prevented the blow and have possessed themselves of the passages of that Valley before the French He appoynted his Muster at S. Madem a little Towne in the Agnedine Valley that he might make use of this occasion as well to invite the Grisons by pay to come thither in great numbers as also to cover under this pretence any suspition that the assembling of so many people might occasion The Forces therefore being met together at the Rendezous in all three Regiments of Grisons under Colonell Vlisse Colonell Salice Monsieur Pracher and the Baron of Selvesteime three French Regiments under the Colonells Leches Lande and Chambale and two Companies of Horse commanded by Messieures de la Villetta and Michy the Commissary and Embassadour unexpectedly opened their Commissions and read the Kings directions to the said Commanders which gave great content to all the Souldiers who were desirous to quit those quarters wherein they were much streightned They then marched towards the Mountaine Spluga and came to Chiavena and making themselves masters thereof without any gaine-saying they advanced to Riva and passing over Sassocorbe which is a Rock betweene the Mountaine and the Lake by which way they are to passe who will goe from thence by land into the Valley and which is a very streight passage and hard to be made if there were any to defend it they came to Traon not meeting with any hindrance For the state of Milan wanting necessary Forces for maintaining it selfe was rather thinking upon defence then how to set upon another And because the French-mens designe was to shut up all the passages into that state in such sort as it should be impossible for the Emperour to send them any succour by the way of Tyroll the Duke of Rohan came thither on the 24th of Aprill with two Regiments of Switzers under the command of the Colonells Smid and Steynor and six French Regiments under the Colonells Montesin Frideliere Cerny Vande Canesin the Count Di Serra and Colla and five Companies of Horse belonging to the Baron of S. Andrea the Baron De Gin Cannigliac Villenueffe and Rocherviere and made himselfe master of the rest of the Valley And though the Inhabitants did with wet eyes behold these new guests and that it had beene better for them to have beene governed by the Spaniards for so they might have had free commerce with Germany and with the state of Milan yet were they enforced to observe such Lawes as were by the Conquerours put upon them The Valteline is situated in the midst betweene high Mountaines which hem it in on all sides so as it rests betweene them a Plaine about a mile in breadth t is watered by the River Ada which runs through the middle of it full of Towns and Villages inhabited by numbers of people abounding in all sorts of Fruits the earth affords so as the Mountaines on each side being covered with Vines from whence most precious Wine is had it represents a stately Theater It bounds upon the state of Milan the Venetian Territories the Arch-Dutchy of Tiroll and upon Rhetia nor hath Italy a more beautifull Valley The Spanish Ministers of State in the state of Milan not being sufficiently provided for necessary defence were not a little confused at the unexpected appearance of the French and Grisons in the Valteline Cardinall Albornotz the Regent in Milan with courage susteined this so sorrowfull newes and speedily advertising Spaine thereof diligently applyed himselfe to all such expedient meanes as upon such an emergency could be used and having weighed the difficulties of withstanding the French who were already masters of Riva and other avenues from entring the state Milan he thought it best that being carefull at the present of preserving the Frontiers of that state succour might be solicited from Spaine Naples and Germany by which the state being brought into a good posture they might betake themselves to
what should be most expedient A scrutiny was therefore made of all such as were able to beare Armes from 18 yeares of age till 50. that upon any occurrency they might be pickt out and imployed in the defence of requisite places The Militia of the State and of the men therein fitting to beare Armes being calculated which might amount to neere about 10000 Foot some thousands thereof were chosen out and disposed of in places of most importance Don Carlo Colombo and Serjeant Major Molina were incontinently dispatcht away to the Frontiers of Comasco with ten Companies of Foot Count Serbellone was declared superintendent of those Confines who together with other eleven Companies of Guasco's Brigade and five Troops of Horse forthwith tooke up his quarters on the left side of the Lake over against the Fort Fuentes and fortified himselfe in the way which the French were to passe to hinder the Enemy from invading the Lands of Comasco on that side Moneyes were delivered out to rayse Souldiers in all parts Some store of ready Money was sent to the Embassadour Cassatt Lieger for the King of Spaine at Lucerna to rayse 4000 Switzers Don Antonio de Sermientes Steward was sent to Florence to acquaint the Duke thereof with what had hapened and to demand of him the Brigado which he was obliged to maintaine for the defence of the state of Milan by vertue of the agreement made at Siena The Citie of Milan disbursed readily 50000 crownes upon this occasion And because the Spaniards wisely fore-saw that the French preparing themselves in Daulpheny would certainly fall into Piemont and from thence into Montferrat to set upon the state of Milan on that side also governing themselves with their accustomed undauntednesse together with their continued Provisions of Warre and new Fortifications in Novara Mortara Alexandria and other Forts upon the Frontier they bethought themselves to try Victorio Amadeo Duke of Savoy to see whether he as his Father had done before him was resolved to follow the fortune of Spaine They very well knew that for reason of State it did not well befit his Highnesse that the French should nestle themselves in Lombardy being very sure that he should not from them injoy that authoritie and respect which he as esteemed doore-keeper of Italy had from the one and the other Crowne wherefore they were very urgent with him to this purpose and full of promises and hopes But the Duke who after the businesse of Pinaroll knew he suffered much in those Prerogatives which whilst absolute Master of the Marquisat of Saluzzo he enjoyed not having Forces sufficient to withstand the invasion of the French and being in a condition not to be succoured by the Spaniards whose Armies were much diminished and weakned his answer was ambiguous and such as is usually given by Princes upon such like occasions yet it was thought that keeping secret and wary intelligence with the Spaniards he had promised them that he would yes marry would he satisfie the King of France in his demands but that temporising and as occasion should serve he would put on such resolutions as should most comply with his owne interest and not be unacceptable to the Spaniards His answer was therefore appearingly honested with faire pretences wherewithall the Spaniards were not altogether distasted nor the French throughly satisfied In fine the Spanish Agents were not wanting in such wisedome and vigilancy as was requisite upon such an occasion On the other side Rohan began cautiously to Fortifie he put a Garrison into Riva drew a Trench from Provegio to Coschio two little Townes the one on this side the other on the other side of Ada wherewithall barricadoing up the entrance into the Vallie he thought to secure himselfe on that side from the Spaniards attempts And because the way from Chiavena into the Vateline by Sasso-Corbe which was in sight and under the command of the Cannon of Fort Fuentes did trouble him he resolved to make a way upon the ridge of the Mountaine S. Iulian to which purpose he set 200 Pioniers on worke but could not effect his desire He afterwards going on prosperously made himselfe absolute master of the whole Vallie without any manner of gain-saying where thinking to make some long abode he tooke order for securing of the Fort Feria and of the Castle of Codera In this revolution of affaires Monsieur De Bellieure came to Turin who when he had delivered his Embassy to the Duke his Highnesse and his Ministers of State were not a little staggered for finding the ruine that was to fall upon the state if they should refuse what was propounded by the King they were consequently to be very circuÌspect in their proceedings with the French on the other side if they should yield to their desires to foment ones owne ruine and draw subjection upon ones selfe was hard of digestion to a good Polititian For when the French should be masters of the State of Milan there was no doubt but that the Duke of Savoyes Authority growing lesse and he being invironed on all sides by the French Forces hee should not keep up that reputation which he held whilest between them and the Spaniard but should be treated as a subject of France The Duke being therefore much perplext and his Councell no lesse confused hee resolved by no meanes to irritate the Forces which hung over him but legitimating his reasons by faire excuses to maintaine friendship with the French and not totally forsake Spaine for time being that which much helpes the weakest in power he might from thence expect some happy occasion of compliance which now to undertake would be dangerous Those of Piemonte did the rather adhere to this Counsell for that they found the winning of the state of Milan would prove a difficult businesse For though the Duke should effectually joyne with the French and openly declare himselfe for them since it did not comply with the Princes of Italy and lesse with the Switzers and Grisons that that state should fall into the hands of the French they found that when the Spaniards should be brought to a very low ebbe they would all joyne in using what meanes they should thinke fittest to keep those Forts from being possest by the French The Dukes answer to the Embassadour was therefore in generals shewing a newtrality though as shall be said hereafter hee fared not the better for it Hee therefore for the more safety of his owne dominions added eight companies to every of his former Regiments Hee resolved to levy 2000 Switzers and applied himselfe to such opportune remedies as the present emergency required And that these negotiations might not passe without the Popes knowledge whom he desired to interest in his protection knowing that he was likely to stand in need of his Holinesse his intercession to moderate the displeasure which his proceedings might cause in the French Hee sent Count Francis Cansciani to Rome to acquaint the Pope with the
whole affaire and to desire him that he would interpose that the Duke might be permitted according as he desired to keep newter Duke Waymer by reason of his late bad successes was at this time in no good credit with such German Princes as were confederate with the Crowne of Swethland who did not applaud his too hasty actions Wherefore hee seeing that the Countries Contributions grew daily lesse and lesse that the Duke of Saxony had made his Peace with the Emperour and that many Hauns Townes had changed their Copy so as he knew not how longer to maintain his Army without help and assistance from the great Potentate the States from whence he raised his Monies and Victuals for the maintenance of his Souldiers being the most of them already in the power of the Austrians and the Country wherein he was quartered being totally wasted and consumed and that his Souldiers inforced by their sufferings fled to the Colours which were set up of all Nations for the King of France who foreseeing the insubsistency of the Dutch Companies in the Swedish service aswell for the want of Contribution as of pay which the Swedish Commanders converted to their owne use and fearing lest by the disbanding of these the Caesarian Army might bee augmented which was victorious and composed of the same Nation resolved to make some levies of Forreyners aswell for what hath been said as likewise to winne the affection of the Protestants who comming into his pay together with the aggrandizing of his already dreaded power the weakning of other Armies made not a little for the advantage of the French Waymer being therefore moved out of these considerations resolved to fly for protection to the French by whose Agents hee had been sought unto and perswaded to take pay of that Crowne and to ingage himselfe and his Forces in the service thereof The French foreseeing that unlesse they could divert the Emperours Forces which were numerous and well experienced the Fabricke of their designe was grounded but upon an ill foundation and that this division of the Dutch Forces was the right way to compasse their ends had procured this Princes dependency upon them he being a gallant Gentleman beloved by the Souldiers a greatly experienced Commander and who was at this time in great valew and estimation As also the like of the Landgrave of Hessen who was a sprightly Prince and of no lesse esteem with the Protestant party and the Elector of Saxony and all this was done through great promises which being food onely fit for weake stomacks the using therof was rather prejudiciall then advantagious to the safety of France For this was judged to be one of the chiefe motives which made the Duke of Saxony reconcile himselfe to the Emperour hee having too well found that the protection of more puissant Princes is nothing else but a hook whereby that liberty is fisht for which hath escaped the nets of other mens rule and govenment as he had very well found since his joyning in friendship with the King of Sweden The great Chancellour Oxesterne having likewise wisely weighed that any longer tarrying about the Rhyn would be hurtfull to the need which the Townes upon the Elb and Oder stood in of his assistance which might easily be invaded by the Saxon Forces joyned with the Emperours As likewise for the Dyet which was to be held at Hoband for the new Truce Peace or Warre with the Polachs leaving Mentz resolved to goe into Pomerania to provide for what was needfull for those Provinces which were yet held by the Swedish Forces and which did more import them then the others foreseeing very well it was impossible for the Swedes to keep any longer upon the Rhyn being pursued on one side by the Imperialists Sword and on the other side prest by the desires and perswasions of the French who knowing them to be but weake in Men Mony and Meanes to subsist did much urge them to give themselves up unto their protection that so they might get into their hands such Townes as they were possest of in those parts Hee therefore tooke his was by France where by command from the King he was honourably treated and received with extraordinary civillity and afterwards imbarking himselfe in some Holland Vessels at Callis he lânded safe in Holland and after divers negotiations with those States he parted from thence and came to his journies end Nurenberg which yet stucke to the Evangelicall League for so did the Protestants tearm theirs being reduced to that scarcity of Victuals as that a loafe of bread was sold for a Dollar and decaying much in trade it being a very populous City which lived upon handy-Crafts and Merchandizing seeing their hopes faile them of being succoured by the Swedes and Princes of the League being likewise invited by the examples of Ratisbon Auspurg and other Cities which had found more Clemency from the Conquerour then from the conquered for Caesar finding at last that violent meanes did not worke upon a malady cankered through the peoples obstinacy of not forgoing the liberty of their Conscience had applied the due remedy therunto to wit the permission of their said liberty and privileges which was the true Antidote wherewith to abolish hatred and regaine the peoples love agreed likewise that 't was better for them to reconcile themselves with the Emperour then to persevere in friendship with the Swedes from whom they had yet received but a ruinous preservation which peradventure would not have proved such if they had kept themselves in their due obedience to the Emperour The Swedes were in these confusions when the Imperialists imboldned by their victories and growing stronger in Alsatia and Burgundy thought it expedient to venter upon somewhat whereby they might satisfie the Duke of Lorayne and advantage themselves in those parts Montebelgarde which lies upon the Confines of Alsatia Burgundy Lorayne and Swizzerland and where the French had fortified themselves seemed to them a very convenient place to open their way into Lorayn Gathering therefore together all their Forces towards Brisach and Burgundy they advanced to the taking in thereof against which they planted their Cannon plaid upon the Towne and would doubtlesly have taken it had not the Marshall de la Force suddainly come in to the succour thereof who fortunatly gave the Austrians Battaile neer Luder and after a strong bickering had the upperhand and routed the Regiments of Wert Renoch and Merci the chiefe heads of that Army Whereupon the Imperialists fearing to bee worsted if they should continue the enterprise they had begun suddainly raised their Siege and retreated part into Burgundy part under Wert into Alsatia rather to guard that Province then to indeavour the winning of any Townes garrisoniz'd by the French As these the Austrians proceedings were jointly listned unto in Vienna and throughout the whole Caesarian Territories so was the news of the French-mens falling into the Valteline no lesse displeasing unto them whereby
appearance all things were fairely carryed on ãâã the English no lesse mindfull of the Spanish actions who under the colour of good neighbour-hood had formerly indeavoured by an Armado at Sea to land their men in that Kingdome and under pretence of comforting the oppressed Romanists to conquer it did very well know that the French could not be held under without promoting the Spaniards whom for many respects they ought more to dread then the Brench and in particular because the English greatnesse consisting at Sea which they must passe over who will set footing in that Kingdome they had more reason to feare the Spaniards that were as well potent by Sea as Land then the French farre inferriour to them in shipping and strength at Sea And for that the King of England was first to have satisfaction given him in his pretences of having the Palatinate restored to his Nephewes which was a businesse the Austrians desired not to heare of their thoughts proved imperfect especially since the Palatinate was conferr'd upon the Duke Bavaria and likewise the Electorall Cap so as it seemed not faire to bereave him of the title of Elector though the Palatinate should be taken from him and as good an estate given him Divers Propositions were therefore propounded hereupon by the wariest Court-Counsellours Some were of opinion That England was by all meanes possible to be satisfied not onely so to winne the love and affection of the King thereof but to interest him in a League which might moderate the excessive power of France already growne to too great an height and to take from the Protestants their pretence of taking up Armes against the Emperour by restoring the Palatinate and Electoricall Dignitie the which was knowne to many to be of great importance since that it little concerned the Emperour and his affaires whether that state were in the hands of the Duke of Bavaria or in the Prince Palatines and yet the not restoring thereof was of great concernment That by reason of this the Austrians became hatefull to the Protestant Princes and 't was a prevalent cause of raysing Warre which being fomented by France and England did much endammage the Empire as experience had already shewen for the expences the Austrians had beene at in the late Warres did twentie times exceed the full value of the Palatinate that notwithstanding not to quit good correspondency with Bavaria nor breake faith with him who was alwayes ready to disburse his owne monyes and indanger his state for Caesars service the Palatinate might be changed for the upper Austria as it had beene formerly done And that the title of Elector might rest in the Duke of Bavaria during his life and afterwards returne to the Palatine for that though they should not intend to doe so they should by this promise winne time to put the affaires of the Empire in order and get to be in a condition of altering their word at their pleasure Others thought it good to feed England with good words but that their actions should onely aime at their owne interests for though the Palatinate should be restored the English would not notwithstanding declare themselves Enemies to France for since it made for the interest of their Kingdome that both these Crownes should be weakened by the Warre they would endeavour to keepe the ballance equally poised betweene them that so by their ruines they might the more secure the peace and accommodation of their owne quiet Kingdome And as for the distaste they might receive by the not restitution of the Palatinate they should not any wayes apprehend that for the English would never joyne with the French to oppresse the Spaniards lest thereby they should augment their already excessive Forces which necessarily they ought to be jealous of but they would rather foment that partie whose declination might make the other more dreadfull Others affirmed It were more convenient to give in Lieu of the Palatinate some Lands in Swabendland and in Wirtenberg to the Duke of Bavaria and that the title of Elector should remaine to him during his life In fine the most voyces were for the restitution of the Palatinate but the putting of it in execution was much hindred through the feare the Imperialists had of distasting the Duke of Bavaria whose assistance was now more necessary for them then formerly And thus was this so weightie resolution retarded and inveloped with other considerations when Maximilian wisely fore-seeing that the Austrian Ministers of State might resolve upon somewhat which might give satisfaction to England and finding there was no better way to crosse it then by obliging the Emperour to have a greater care to the interest of his owne house he bethought himself of marrying the Emperours Daughter as well to winne more upon Caesars good will by this new alliance as to oblige his Imperiall Majestie rather to favour his grand-children then strangers This marriage was therefore managed with reciprocall desire the Duke desired it the more to oblige the Emperour and King of Hungary to continue friendship with him as likewise that he might have issue to succeed him in his Dominions which as yet he had not Caesar listened willingly thereunto as well to shew his affection to Bavaria as likewise to make him by this tye more firme to what concerned Caesar and to keepe him from being wrought upon by the perswasions and promises of France as it was said was mainely indeavoured by vast hopes whereby to withdraw him from his siding with the Emperour and certainly if the Duke should as things then stood have given eare thereunto such a resolution might have tended much to the prejudice of Caesar. The businesse was therefore wholly concluded though some good wits murmured thereat pretending to fore-see that such fruits might proceed from this marriage as might prove bitter to the Emperours house Whilest France and Germany were thus busied each of them making what preparations they could for the present affaires a Hollander named Entholts who being banished his Countrey lived amongst the Spaniards in Flanders and who was very ill satisfied with the states of Holland because they had beheaded his Father for having as it was layd to his charge conspired with other two of his companions to deliver up the Fort of Tiell seated upon the Wall betweene Bonniell and Niminghen unto the Spaniards whilest he lived in a Countrey that profest Neutralitie this Entholts holding intelligence with some kindred and friends of his who often used to advertise him how affaires went in those Provinces thought how he might effect somewhat which might correspond with his desires as it is usuall with men whose passion exciteth them to revenge And being advertised that the Fort of Skinck a very strong place situated upon the poynt of the Island made by the Rhyn which dividing it selfe here into two parts that on the left hand takes the name of the Wall the other on the right hand continuing the name of the Rhyn till it
Kingdom of Naples and their other States would be thereby much burthened a businesse of so great consideration as the Spaniards would have very well bethought themselves of the end before they would have undertaken such a Warre and peradventure never have done it till first they should have driven the French from Montferrat and Piemont and so have hindered them from succouring of such Princes of Italy as should be by them opprest wherefore neither did the Souldiers nor any of the adjoyning neighbours like of such a change and the rather for that the Spaniards were more quiet neighbours then the French the Duke of Parma resolved therefore to go to the Court of France where he was received by the King with all beseeming pomp graciously looked upon and better treated Marquis Villa who during the Duke of Parma's absence kept himselfe with the abovesaid Savoy-Horse upon the Piacenzan Territories being advertised that the Duke of Modena did still ingage himselfe in further friendship to the Spaniards and that he furnished them with all things necessary out of his owne State thinking it now no longer time to keep idle in his quarters resolved upon some enterprise and under pretence of remitting the Prince of Correggio into his estate who in the former Warres of Mantua being accused by the Austrian Agents of coyning false Monies and extortion was banished to over-run the Country of Modena and thereby indeavour to withdraw the Duke of Modena from his inwardnesse with Spaine or rather to perswade him to joyne in league with the Duke of Parma and the other Colleagues Which could he have done as he had small reason to imagine for that wise Prince minded not to interest himselfe foolishly in a Warre whereby he could promise nothing to himselfe but the ruine of his State it would have been so usefull a diversion for the French Forces as they might easily have obtained their desired ends Departing from his quarters he so opportunely and so unexpectedly came upon the Territories of Modena as that the Duke thereof and his Commanders dreaming of nothing lesse afforded the Savoyards opportunity to over-run some Townes of Rugio and to âacke Castle Novo but these proceedings were soone stopt For the Duke and his Uncle Prince Lewis a valiant and experienced Souldier marched into the field with a good strength of Foot and Horse and the Spaniards upon notice hereof did speedily imbarque 800 Horse and 2000 Foot at Casall the greater upon the Poe who landing under Bressell a strong hold in Modena came the first week in Lent to the succour of the Duke by whom they were courteously received and refreshed in the quarters of Castle Novo Gualtieri and other Townes of Regio where hearing that the Enemy advanced the Spaniards made suddainly towards the Bridge over Lenza a River which comming from the Alpes cuts through the Country between Parma and Regio where joyning with those of Modena they advanced to the high-way which leads from Parma to the said Bridge where those of Parma kept themselves in good order marching towards the Country of Modena And being come neere Sorbolo a Towne betweene Bressel and Cassall Novo Miazza's Company which was advanced to observe the Enemies proceedings light upon the Savoy Horse with whom they skirmished in the which skirmish Count Lodovic Aresoes Company being advanced to succour Miazza and these being pursued by those of Parma they could not retreat by reason of their Commanders unadvisednesse who instead of leaving a convenient space open on the said high-way whereby their Horse might have retreated after their bickering had with the remainder of their Forces block't up the passage so as Count Lodovic was defeated with no little losse likewise to the Burgonians led on by Signior Batteville Of the Spaniards Count Lodovic Arse Batteville and Don Vincenzo Gonzaga were wounded and of the Savoyards Don Scipion di Masserano was tane prisoner And Villa knowing he could no more good for that the Enemy was much more in number then he others will have it that he had secret instructions from the Duke of Savoy to seeme outwardly to give all manner of satisfaction to the French but in effect to delay the execution thereof and to let slip such occasions as might be advantagious to them passed over ââza and returned to his former quarters in the State of Parma and the Spaniards after having over-runne some Townes of the State of Parma came back to the Territories of Cremona The English thought the present conjuncture of time favourable for them to get the restitution of the Palatinate by reason of the revolutions and ruptures of these two Crownes for many yeares agitated with War and undoubtedly hoping that upon these emergencies the Austrians would be very glad to keepe good intelligence with that Kingdome and rather indeavour their friendship by giving them satisfaction then againe to render them distrustfull Whereupon as it is usuall to grant those things for need upon poore conditions which in times of prosperitie were held in great esteeme the English thinking that now they might easily obtaine the restitution of the Palatinate from the Imperialists which had formerly beene denyed them sent an extraordinary Embassadour to Vienna to obtaine it from the Emperour who being come thither and having made knowne his Commission was by outward appearance more welcomed then formerly as well in respect that it is usuall to make much of such a Princes Ministers of State so farre as good may be hoped from them as likewise to cause the greater jealousie in the French The negotiation hereof was committed to Monsieur Vicario the Counts Mecaw and Trantmistorfe and to the Baron Stralendorph the chiefe Officers of the Imperiall Crowne and after many meetings and consultations had upon the businesse Caesars good inclination thereunto was interrupted by respect of the satisfaction that was to be given to Bavaria England not being to be satisfied without the prejudice of Bavaria they ought to set the greater value upon the Dukes friendship by how much they knew the re-granting of the Palatinate advantagious to the English for it was not now time to make an uncertaine correspondency with a Forraigne and farre distant Prince thereby to abandon the certaine friendship of one who had alwayes deserved well of and beene faithfull to the Emperour and who being Master of a flourishing Countrey a considerable Exchequer and a no despicable Army if he should quit his Confederacy with the Austrians and joyne himselfe with the French who failed not to indeavour it by all the skill they had the ruine was apparent which would thereby have fallen upon the Empire Therefore the Propositions and the Answers were long held in hand with such dexteritie as Princes use in businesses whereunto they wish no good conclusion so as the negotiation proved abortive The Emperour foreseeing the importance of the Warre with France that he might as well preserve the Princes and Potentates of Italy well inclined towards him and keepe them
Spaniards Therefore they more then ever renewed their hostilitie in the State of Piacenza and making more Dutch Troopes advance they tooke the Castle of Rottofredo betwixt Titon and Trebbia and afwards Valditaro and S. Donino and wasted all those Territories 't was said their intention in doing this was that if the Duke should come with a French Army into his Countrey to invade the State of Milan on that side he should find neither Forrage nor Victualls to maintain himselfe by which meanes they should secure themselves on that side and so much the rather for that the French when they should be brought to that ruined Countrey of narrow Precincts they being a Nation who cannot well endure hunger if at other times and in other places they were accustomed to runne from their Commanders they would much the more doe so here having the commoditie to goe see Mantua and Venice And the Spaniards greatly fearing that the French upon the Duke of Parma's comming and their Commission from the King should rather attempt somewhat in the State of Milan they sent Don Alonso de Quiranes the Lieutenant Generall of the Horse with 24 companies of Horse into Novara to watch over the French-mens wayes and to oppose them in such sort as his experience should bid him till such time as necessary Provisions for defence were had in the State of Milan And because the Spaniards knew of what importance Rottofredo and the Borrough of Valditaro were by reason of their situation for the present Warre they resolved to fortifie them for that maintaining themselves there though the French should come to succour Piacenza they would be able to bring them to great sufferings and to hinder the French from advancing on that side into the States of Milan or of Modena And for that the keeping of good intelligence betweene the Spaniards and the Duke of Modena was very requisite in many respects they sent Don Francisco di Mello to the greater Cassall whither likewise the Duke came and speaking together 't was said that Mello in his Kings name did againe assure his Highnesse of his Majesties perfect good inclinations to what concerned him wishing him to cast away any umbrage of feare he might have that the French passing into the Countrey of Parma were to lay hands on the State of Râgiâ or of Modena Others said that Mello let fall some words to invite the Duke to come to the Court of Spaine which was much desired by the Spaniards that they might not goe lesse with France which had beene visited by the Duke of Parma Others said it was to raise more men out of that State and to interest that Prince yet more with the Crowne of Spaine but every man judged as he thought good guessing onely by conjectures for no man knew any word he said The Duke of Alcana came likewise at this time to Milan who was reported should be entertained as Governour thereof and who was much welcomed and in stately manner met without Pavia by Leganes Mello and other Cavaliers The French were as diligent as the Spaniards in examining what would make most for their advantage and of all the rest Crequi was offended that his fame should not now mount as high as it had done in his former actions foreseeing that if by his valour he should not make good those hopes which the Court expected from the comming of the Duke of Parma and the Kings commands he should goe lesse in reputation The French Kings chiefe Commanders and Ministers of State being met in Cassale such Propositions were put to be wisely weighed as were thought fitting by such as were more passionate then others to see the honour of the French Forces lessen the contents whereof were That the Army being brought together it should immediately march towards the State of Parma that when they should have driven the Spaniards from thence made Piâcenza their Arsenall of Armes and all necessary Provisions they should couragiously and boldly set upon the State of Milan on this side which as it was more opulent and abounding in plentie then any other part so did it want Forts able to withstand a strong Army and that when they should have ransackt the Countries of Cremona and Lodegian and made themselves Masters of those two Townes which were not very strong they might easily beleaguer the Citie of Milan they fortified these opinions by these reasons That if this were not done the Duke of Parma who had readily without any respect to his owne particular declared himselfe for them might lawfully make his peace with the Spaniard Whereupon together with the losse of so important a friend they were to suffer not onely in their reputation but even in their plighted faith for all other Princes taking example hereby would be careful how they built upon hopes from France That the friendship of the Princes and Potentates of Italy was one of the greatest goods that could befal the Crown of France and contrariwise the greatest prejudice that could happen to Spaine That Charles Duke of Maâtua's obligations to France were knowne the affection and intire friendship of the state of Venice That doubtlesse though the state of Parma should prove penurious as not to be able to maintaine an Army it would be supplyed from Mantua Ferara and Venice That the Princes would be glad of such a neighbour-hood for that the Spaniards having thereby recourse unto their Townes their Territories growing consequently more populous and they inriching themselves by their neighbours pillage their Principalities would be thereby advantaged That it was not to be believed that the Spaniards though stronger then they were would resolve upon a generall battell with the French Army since by losing they should lose too much and by winning gaine but little That therefore they were to furnish Brem Cassalle and other neighbouring Forts with all things necessary to send speedy advertisement to the Court to the end that more Forces might with expedition be sent by the King to set upon the State of Mila on the other side that so they might effect the work according to their desire The other Commanders would easily have given way to these reasons as appearing probable and valid but considering the end and scope of the enterprise there were some who openly opposed them alledging That the French had not about 7 or 8 thousand Foot and 2500 Horse wherewithall to keepe the Field that this was a small number in respect of the difficultie of the undertaking and the recruits which the Spaniards had received from divers parts that they were for many miles to passe through the Enemies Countrey having Valenza Alessandria and Tortona upon their Flanks and backs that the Army would be perpetually disturbed that they could not promise themselves any safe retreat if they should have occasion so to doe it was rather to be feared that the Spaniards by possessing themselves of the most advantagious Avenues might crosse them in their march and
part of Christendome THE XIII BOOK The Contents of the Thirteenth Book Peace is concluded betweene Parma and Spaine by the interposition of the great Duke of Tuscany The French goe out of Piacenza and the Spaniards withdraw their Forces from those Territories This accommodation is ill understood by the French Count Fabio Scotti is imprisoned in France What the French-men did hereupon Duke Waymer enters Burgondy and forceth Gallasse to retire He enters Alsatia and takes Rinfield Bannier being recruited with men makes towards the Saxons The Emperour Ferdinand the second dyes and his Son Ferdinand the third succeeds him in the Empire The Grisons drive the French out of the Valteline and Rhetia The Saxons joyne with the Imperialists and oppose the Swedes a great Battell ensues Azfelt is routed the Saxons make head againe and repulse the Swedes The Spaniards proceed on in Lombardy Hermesteine is besieged by the Imperialists and succour'd by the Swedes by Stratagem The French land in Sardinnia but to no purpose They take the Islands of S. Marguerit and S. Honore Expediences used by the new Emperour for the good government of the Empire A League treated on betweene the Grisons and Spaniards The French invade Flanders on one side and the Hollanders on another Breda is besieged by the Prince of Orange Hermesteine is yeelded to the Imperialists John de Wert goes to take in Hannaw Waymer intends to succour it but is denyed passage by those of Strasburg Gallasse comes in to the succour of the Saxons therefore the Swedes retreat Hannaw is taken by intelligence or correspondency The Swedes retreat into the Old Towne and compound with the Imperialists THe good newes of the King of the Romans Creation being speedily brought to Milan as it was cause of extraordinary contentment in the King of Spaines Ministers of State in the Commanders Souldiers and all the people who by all sorts of apparent Iubilies witnessed by their Feasts Justings Ridings and other extraordinary signes of joy no lesse then had been observed in other places and as hath beene said the honour and satisfaction that they received thereby so was it interpreted as an happy augure of the ensuing yeare and pronounced as a favourable presage of good fortune to the Forces of his most Catholique Majestie and it was not long ere the effects proved it to be so For the great Duke of Tuscany wisely fore-seeing the Duke of Parma's ruine if he should continue his union with France from whence succour would prove desperate as well by reason of the farre distance thereof and their want of men as also of the causes which made for the interests of the French whom it became not though they had had a greater strength of men to imploy them in a wasted Countrey in the midst of their Enemies without money or requisite Provisions for Warre the issue whereof would have beene that the greater part of their Souldiers naturally impatient of suffering and desirous of chance would have runne away into the State of Mantua the Churches dominions and into the State of Venice and thus weaken the Ensignes of France and bring them to hard bargaine And his Highnesse seeing the Spaniards continued with great gallantry to strengthen Piacenza which could not hold out much longer without reliefe and being lost would not so easily be redeemed especially the Citadell to keepe the which the Spaniards would not want valide reasons and faire pretences The great Duke being likewise not pleased that his Kinsman should be bereaved of his patrimony nor yet that the Spaniard should inlarge his dominions in Italy he sent more strict Commission to Pandolphini that he should goe againe to Piacenza and make the Duke see how palpable the danger was that over-hung him and exhort him to make an accommodation with the Spaniards with whom if Parma would give him leave he the great Duke would Treat and make an agreement which should be to his advantage The Pope likewise who was troubled that that Citie should be lost for that it held of the Church ordered Count Carpegna to acquaint the Duke how his Holinesse not intending that the fee-Farme-Lands of the Church should be further ruinated wisht him to thinke of compounding the businesse he likewise commanded Carpegna to shew the Duke how little hopes there was succour and of the performance of the Frenchmens promise as he might daily see by the effects for though they promised to doe wonders so to keepe him in league yet their actions did in no wayes correspond with their words They at last made him comply with the counsell given him by the Pope and the great Duke whereupon after many negotiations in the beginning of February the businesse was adjusted wherein the Duke of Parma was much obliged to the great Duke who upon this occasion shewed himselfe to be his very good Friend and Kinsman The French were brought out of the Towne under pretence of being mustered the Duke unexpectedly began to complaine to Monsieur De S. Paule of the negligence of his Kings Officers in sending him his due and promised succour and to shew him how faithfully he had behaved himselfe in the behalfe of France which being done he dismist all the French out of Piacenza as also out of Parma and all other parts of his dominions and sent them to their owne homes at which they very much repined thinking themselves to be abused though the Duke had alwayes behaved himselfe ingenuously and done all that by his new friendship he was bound to doe for it is alwayes lawfull for Princes to change their Copy when their States are at the stake All the Princes of Italy were greatly pleased with this accommodation for by such ruptures great troubles were likely to have risen in Italy and now the Forces withdrawing themselves towards Piemont the other Provinces were at quiet and their peace was the more firmely established by the weakning of the two Crownes it being the opinion of wisemen that other Potentates ought to indeavour the keeping of these two great Kings at oddes with equalitie of successe to the end that being intent to Warre within themselves they may not fall to prejudice lesse powerfull Princes The Spaniards notwithstanding who proceed leisurely and wait patiently for occasions which being by them opportunely layd hold on brings them usually no little advantage did inwardly like well enough of this accommodation for here their jealousies being buried by the laying downe of Armes and consequently by their disbanding their companies increasing and their confining neighbours growing weaker by the want of those Souldiers they with much contentment fore-saw that if Fortune should favour them against the French they should be able to inlarge the limits of the State of Milan and to secure themselves from Forreigne invasion for unarmed Princes not being able on the sudden to poise up the ballance which panched a little downewards in the declination of the French partie they were confident to bring their
sent towards Piemont The consequences which were concerned in the intelligence held betweene the Duke of Parma and the French being vanished by his late peace made with Spaine that diversion being taken away which occasioned the keeping of a great part of the Spanish Army on that side and the succession of the Empire being provided for in the person of the Sonne of the late Ferdinand by the Election of the King of the Romans no greater contentment could in these present emergencies befall the Austrians nor was it possible for them to become more famous then by having overcome three such difficulties which had not a little troubled them These successes did therefore so exalt the Austrians hopes as they thought it not onely an easie matter to drive the French to the other side of the Mountaines and to secure Flanders but also to beat back the Swedes beyond the Baltique Sea And to effect these vast designes Piccolomini and Wert were sent for back into Flanders the one or them Generall to the Emperour the other to Bavaria who a little before were come from the Low-Countries for the affaires of the Empire to their Masters Dominions so to guard those Provinces the better from being invaded by the French as likewise if Fortune should prove propitious to undertake somewhat in France and to get some of the Forts of Lorayne which the Spaniards could not indure should be in the power of the French For besides that France was thereby increased by the addition of a good Dukedome lying betweene Burgundy and Flanders those Provinces were consequently much weakned by that division They therefore sent Foot and Horse by the way of Navarre against France to re-inforce the Siege before Bayon intending if not to proceed further at least to divert the Army of France from that side After the fight and rout given to Azfelt Bannier advanced cheerfully towards Turingia where he had already taken Mansfelt and Erfurt and other places of those Provinces wherefore Ghets and Glissing who were then with about 10000 men in France were commanded when the Forces should be gotten together which were in the Hercinian Woods to joyne themselves with the Saxons Army which after the taking of Magdeburg was about Marsburg and Halla to refresh it selfe for the sufferings it had indured before that Towne and to oppose the Enemies proceedings And because Orenghell also over-runne Slesia with a great strength of Swedes to the great prejudice of those people the Caesarian Commanders who had the charge of guarding that Province were commanded to take what men they could from the neighbouring Garrisons and joyne with other Souldiers who were already on their way from Moravia and with all diligence to oppose Orenghells furthers proceedings So as the Austrians thought they had done reason on this side by the assistance of the Forces of the Electors of Saxony and Brandemburg and of those other people which they had sent to those parts the rather to keep those Electors in their loyaltie then totally to drive the Swedes from such places of theirs as they were possest of By reason whereof some more speculative then others gave out that the Austrians intentions were grounded upon a strong reason of state to keepe the Warre still on foot in this part for that the mischiefes thereof being nourished in the State of Saxony the Duke whereof was a Protestant Prince and at the present one of the powerfullest of all the Empire his Countrey having preserved it selfe better then any other from the miseries of Warre by which all other places had beene greatly wasted it was likely his strength might be weakned and that afterwards the businesse of Italy and France being compounded the Emperour might easily bring all Germany to his obedience the Princes whereof by reason of their past-sufferings would not be able to weigh against the Austrian power and as it is usuall for the weakest to tollerate more the actions of great ones so it would behove them to respect Caesars authoritie more then formerly And the Spaniards chiefe aime being to preserve Alsatia and Flanders and to drive the French from Montferrat having thus provided for the urgencies of Germany they set themselves wholly upon the getting of Piemont Those people therefore being drawne out who after the retreat from Piacenza were quartered in the Territories of Pavia and Lodiggian and a new inforcement of some Companies which came from Spaine and Naples being come to the State of Milan Leganes resolved when he should have perfected the Fortifications spoken of about Lumello a Bridge should be throwne over the Tessine at Sesto a Towne neere the greater Lake that he might make use thereof in the more speedy leading of the Switzers and Dutch which were expected from Switzerland and Swabenland into the Territories of Vercelles at any time when he should betake himselfe to the taking in of that place where in the neighbouring Townes he resolved to lodge them And therefore advancing with a part of his Army to Pavia he commanded Emilius Ghedini who was in the parts of Allessandria with some Dutch Companies belonging to Ghelidas his Regiment and some other Italian and Spanish Troopes to advance to before Ponsone a Castle situated in the Langhe between Savoy and Allessandria and that he should indeavour to take it as a place of much consideration upon the present occasions for he thereby the better secured the communication of the Havens of Vado Finale and Codoretto with the State of Milan At the appearing of these men the Towne suddenly yeelded which wanting fitting Fortifications could not hold out the French retired themselves into the Castle which being incompassed with great Towers and seated on high suffered not the Sapniards at the first to advance further whereupon Ghedini staying in the Towne and making himselfe master of such passes by which Crequis men might come to the succour of that Castle he speedily advertised the Governour of Milan thereof who likewise fearing that it might be succoured by the French for the losse hereof would be a greater detriment to them for the aforesaid reasons sent Don Martin d' Aragona Generall of the Artillery thither with such Forces as he had with him about Pavia upon the arrivall of which strength the Spaniards presently planted their Cannon against the Castle which after some days defence no relief appearing yeelded and the Spaniards were masters thereof to Crequi's great griefe who was come from Cassalle to Turine expecting the resolves of his King which by reason of the agreement made by Parma he thought might be altered and fore-seeing that the Spaniards emboldened by their successes following their good fortune might easily fall upon some greater enterprise before the French could receive fresh supplyes he sent the Marquis Villa with 4000 Foot and 1000 Horse to observe the Spaniards proceedings in those parts And because for want of pay his Souldiers did daily disband and those that remained with him were discontent and greatly
the Governour whereof having put all boyes women and other uselesse mouths out of the Towne prepared aswell to defend the Towne as the Imperialists did to offend ir But Wert did above measure desire to perfect this his enterprise aswell for his owne honour as for to satisfie the Electors of Ments and Cullen who being incessantly molested by that Garrison desired it might be taken and more particularly for that the Imperialists being upon this occasion lodged in the Townes thereabouts these Prelates who loved their quiet and were no friends to Brawles were much incommodiated by the sojourning of the Austrian Army for the Souldiers not receiving their pay forgoing all discipline behaved themselves licentiously against the Subjects of the said Ecclesiastick Princes and being the more offended with them that would reprehend them for so doing they said that those Princes had their beings from them and that they might well enough part with a Glasse of Wine to those who had given them whole Vessels Wert being recruited was intent upon this businesse but the French who made great esteem of this place aswell in respect of the consequence of their having harbour there as for the reputation of the French Forces were no lesse diligent in indeavouring the preservation thereof then Wert was to take it They therefore gave the besieged to understand that succour was comming and desired them not to faile in their duties of defending the Towne Moreover Ransaw Governour of Hannaw a valiant and experienced Souldier foreseeing the losse of Hermesteime would occasion the besieging of the Castle whereof he was Governour indeavoured by all meanes possible how he might relieve the Towne And as he was good at stratagems and knew how to make use of imposturisme he treated with two Bargemen or Skippers of Offembeck a Village about Franckfort upon the Maine and by large promises made them boldly undertake the succouring of the Towne two great Barkes being therefore prepared and loaded with barrels of Powder Salt and Flesh and other things which the Towne wanted they took into them foure Souldies in Jesuits habits and sailed thus towards Franckfort these being asked at their comming to the Bridge by those of the Guârd whither they went feigned as if their loading belonged to the Father-Jesuits who were going to Mentz by reason of their Chapter which they were to hold in that City and the said Fathers being those who dispose of the wils and testaments of many Papist-Princes in Germany were consequently held in great esteem and injoyed much franchise in Austria so as no man thought any treachery could be used by such Monasticks who were the true Centinels of the Austrian greatnesse and the very propagators of the Roman-Faith and moreover it not being probable that those things could come from Hannaw that not being the way they happily fell downe the River still deceiving the Guards with such like excuses and without any impediment got into the Fort the defendants whereof though they were not much incouraged by this succour failed not in their fidelity The French who to boot with their Forces had a powerfull Navy at Sea sailing at this time with some Galliownes and 12 Gallies from the Haven of Tolone to Sardinia came unexpectedly to shore upon the said Island and having landed 2000 Foot they without any gainsay made themselves Masters of the Haven of Orestan a place of no strength and abandoned by the Inhabitants by reason of the unwholsomenesse of the Aire but considering afterwards how it would be hard for them to get further footing there as also that they could not well keep themselves in that Island in succour whereof Leganes had already sent some Captaines and Ingineers to boot with orders given to Signior Gianatin Doria to have an eye with his Gallies to the preservation thereof they therefore went from thence and making towards the Island of Saint Marguerit and landing advantagiously there they possest themselves of a Fort which was not long before built by the Spaniards for the preservation thereof and from thence going before another Fort-Royall which was but negligently looked unto and Doria not being able to bring it necessary succour they made themselves Masters of it as they did also of the Island Saint Honorè an Island in the Mediterranian over against Provence Ferdinand the third succeeding his Father Ferdinand the second in the Empire from whom he no way degenerated Hee first ordered all things necessary for Civill government and then according to the present conjuncture of the time required applied himselfe wholly to Military affaires And knowing it was behovefull to advise of such expeditions as would be most advantagious for the continuation of the Warre already begun and which he inherited from his father against so many and so powerfull Enemies he sent for Piccolomini from Flanders to Vienna for Wert from the Rhyn for Gallasse from the Palatinat and for all the other chiefe Commanders with whom having held divers consultations and resolved on the way that was to be taken upon these present emergencies hee recommended to Piccolomini's charge the Forces in Flanders to Gallasse hee gave the conduct of those which were to succour Saxony hee opposed Wert against the Swedes hee appointed the custody of Alsatia unto Ghâts and gave Duke Charles of Loraine command over the Army in the Frânch Countee Hee afterwards chose Prince Echemberg sonne to that Prince who had for so many yeares so faithfully served his Father to be his Embassadour to the Pope âee failed not afterwards to make use of such meanes as might make most for his advantage in those streights whereunto the Empire was reduced Hee ratified the same good correspondency which his Father held with the Electors and other dependant Princes being desirous to hold good correspondency with the State of Venice hee condiscended to her just desires concerning the intertainment of her Embassadours in ordinary in that Court. And in respect that they had chosen Signior Giovanni Grimani a Senator highly esteemed of in that Republique of deep wisedome and greatly eloquent to be their extraordinary Embassadour hee dispatcht away Count Rabatta a Gentleman of approved worth and wisedome for his Embassadour in ordinary to that State Signior Rainero Zen Procurator of Saint Marck and Angelo Canterini both of them chiefe Senators were sent from Venice the one to condole the Fathers death the other to congratulate the assumption of the sonne into the Empire and were received with unusuall civilities and great expressions of courtesie Hee moreover shewed his good inclination to a universall peace and to this purpose did confirme and ratifie the Election made by his father of the Plenipotentiaries at the Covention which was to be held at Cullen as likewise did the Spaniards who were then very ready and well disposed towards the Peace of Christendome And instead of the Duke of Alcala who falling sicke upon the way died in Villacco as he was going to Vienna that he might from thence
he delayed his march which the Austrians in no wayes dreading seemed not much to care for and this was onely attributed to the small experience of the Souldiers which were but then taken from forth the peacefull quiet of England When the Landsgrave of Hessen who notwithstanding the offers and intreaties of Peace made unto him by the Imperialists kept constant to the Swedes partie seeing Orenghell gone from his State as also the Marquis of Grana who was imployed in the Siege of Hannaw bethought himself to stand no longer idle but mustering together the Army commanded by Melander thinking himself able to relieve HaÌnaw he marched thitherward over-ran many Townes tooke Victenaw and betooke himselfe boldly to the succour of that Fort but the Elector of Ments hearing of this who was most concerned in the taking of it as flanking upon his Territories he assembled together his Forces together with those of Colonell Meternich who guarded those passages He made them wade over the River Chitzing by the intelligence of the Count D'Hannaw who till then had kept Neutrall and who making use of the correspondency which he held with many of the Swedish Commanders being neerly allyed to the Counts Ringraves the chiefe Captains of the Crowne of Swethland he so wisely behaved himselfe in the behalfe of the Austrians as one Gate of the new Fort being surprised and the Cannon being turned against the old Fort he made Ransaw the Governour thereof resolve to parley and incline to the surrender of the place which ensued with all the advantagious conditions the Swedes could desire and with the disbursement of some moneys by way of advance to the Garrison The end of the thirteenth Book The Warres and other State-Affaires of the best part of Christendome THE XIV BOOK The Contents of the Fourteenth Book Iohn de Wert passeth with the Imperiall Army into Alsatia to waite upon Waymer Landresi is yeelded to the French who over-runne some Townes in Flanders The Spaniards enter the Territories of Vercelâes take Carosana skirmish with the French Horse and come off with the worst In Spaine 't is resolved to carry the Warre into France The Spaniards come before Lucata but are raised from thence by the French The French proceed on in Flanders Breda is surrendred to the Hollanders Bannier being re-inforced marcheth against the Saxons His proceedings The Landsgrave of Hessen dieth Victorio Amadeo Duke of Savoy dieth His death is the cause of many consequences The Spaniards are routed in the Langhe by the French Cardinall Maurice of Savoy goes from Rome by reason of the Duke his Brothers death Hee thinkes to take upon him the government of the State but is gaine-said therein by the Duchesse so as it behoves him to keep himselfe upon the entrance into Piemont Crequi marcheth into the field but to little purpose Charles Duke of Mantua dies Princesse Mary hath the government of the State and of her Sonne which brings with it various considerations The Spaniards resolve to send for Prince Thomas from Flanders into Italy and their thoughts in so doing Divers things are disputed on in the Councell of Turine and at last it is resolved to keep in union with the King of France Waymer fights with the Imperialists neer Rinfield gets the Vistory and takes the Emperours Generalls prisoners Duke Rohan wounded in the Battaile of Rinfield dieth Waymer advanceth towards Brisack to the great terror of those people The Marquis Leganes goes to the taking in of Brem and gets the Victory Duke Crequi is slaine before Brem by a Cannon shot Mongaiard the Governour of Brem is brought prisoner into Casall and âath his head strucken off DUke Waymers appearing in Alsatia made the Austrians very jealous who much apprehended his resolutions he being a Prince addicted to Armes and Glory and backt by the Forces of France it likewise made them looke to the preservation of such Townes as held out yet for the Emperour and chiefely the Duke of Bavaria was jealous thereof as hee who if this Province should fall into the hands of the Enemy was more subject then any other to their incursions and hostilities wherefore warily foreseeing what might fall out hee commanded Wert to march speedily with his Foot into that Province and have an eye unto Waymers proceedings And because Wert had not above 6000 Souldiers too small a number in regard of the Forces against which hee was to goe which consisted of about 12000 old Souldiers besides the inforcements which every day were added thereunto by the French who were not farre off hee haulted in the Palatinat and bethought himselfe that if he should goe into Burgundy and joyne with those Forces which held for the King of Spaine there 't would be a good meanes to divert Waymer from his intended enterprise upon Brisack He therefore past the Rhyn at Filisburg and went with his Army to Remiremont a Town in Lorayn upon the Confines of Burgundy intending to doe somewhat in those Provinces But finding his foundation ill laid for that so many French were upon those Frontiers as that they might easily frustrate his designes without sending for Waymer backe his aboad there proving every day more irkesome then other for want of Victuals and being advertised by the Elector of Ments who was thereof informed by some Friers in France that the French-mens intensions were to send Waymer to the siege of Brisack hee went from Burgundy that hee might looke to the preservation of that place and falling downe towards Brisack came neere to Waymers quarters who not doing any thing kept himselfe about a Village called Cappell on this side Rhyn between Basill and Brisack At the news whereof Waymer went in regulate order from his Trenches being resolved to try whether Wert were come to fight with him or onely to disturbe his designes by stratagem But Wert who very well knew upon what disadvantage he was and who by past examples had learned that it is alwayes good to proceed in Military affaires with wisedome and not to be undone by too much daring grounding his actions upon reason haulted for the advantage of his own quarters in expectation of Duke Savello and Colonell Mercy who were both commanded by the Emperour to joyne with him and jointly to provide for the preservation of Alsatia So as each Army keeping within their quarters the one expecting recruits from the Emperour the other from the King of France they stood looking upon one another and did nothing of moment The besieged within Landresi did this meane while valiantly defend themselves against the French who did with no lesse valour thunder open those Wals aswell to bring that worke to an end as for the honour of their Armes which without the taking thereof would have been much impeached but the besieged languishing through their continuall toyle and labour and being very much lessened in their numbers by their daily fighting wherein many of them perished not being able longer to hold out without
speedy succour which though it were indeavoured by the Spaniards and by Piccolomini who as it hath been said was to that purpose come into the Low-Countries could not be effected after they had stoutly repulsed the French Voluntiers who had assaulted them divers times in divers places and after having withstood 6000 Cannon shot at last a Mine made by the French blowing up part of their Wals they not being able longer to resist shewed signes of parle and Articles being agreed upon they marched forth on the 26th of Iuly with Colours flying Drums beating Bag and Baggage the most honourable conditions that the conquered can receive from the Conquerour The way being by this meanes opened to the French to enter further into Flanders they went with their Horse before Mons betweene Cambray and Brussels and sackt Saint Ghisleim Bavay and other neighbouring places to the great terrour of those people who seeing the Spaniards were not able to succour Landresi feared the like might succeed to the other Townes but the French finding afterwards how little good they were like to get if they should indeavour the taking of Mons they thought the recovery of La Chappelle and Castellet would make more for their purpose they therefore removed from their quarters they had taken up and resolved to besiege those two Forts And the Duke of Candal comming with some Troopes of men before Bewmons easily took it The Marquis Leganes perceiving hee could doe but little good against Asti to the succour whereof Marquis Villa and the French were come gave over that designe Hee left notwithstanding a good Garrison in Niece and Agliano with sufficient provisions for their defence for the Spaniards thought them places of much importance upon these present occurrencies as a bridle to with-hold the French from making any further progresse on that part and apt to keep the neighbouring Townes in continuall motion and passing backe on this side Tanaro and then on this side Poe also to Valenza he came upon the Territories of Vercelles The Spaniards aime was upon Brem a place of great advantage to the French for as by the getting of it they should keep the Townes of the Territories of Pavia and Novara in continuall suspition so if they should not get it the Spaniards could not possibly proceed to the enterprise of Cassall Hereupon then they bent their thoughts especially Leganes being advertised that though Mongaiard who was the Governour thereof made them believe at Court that he had 3000 Foot and received pay from the King for so many yet he had not in all 1700 men and those in ill equipage For Mongaiard and the other Captaines who came not into Piemont for change of aire but to change their fortunes being more inclined to inrich themselves by dead pay then to win their wealth from those of Milan by the sword honourably âad their mindes onely bent upon their purses that they might afterwards returne into France and peacefully injoy what they had got Neither knew the King hereof for every one minding his owne particular interest no one would ruine himselfe by peaching his fellow-Officer The Spaniards therfore thinking this a good occasion to perfect that enterprise they brought the greatest part of their Army upon the Territories of Vercelles taking Carasona a Town neer Sofia between Vercelles and Brem they haulted there and fortified themselves thinking this a very fitting place to bring them either to the taking of Vercelles or Brem The Neapolitan Horse over-ranne and sacked many Townes thereabouts not omitting such diligence as is knowne by wise Commanders to be requisite in the mannaging of Warre But Marshall Crequi blushing to see his honour so much decline which he in so many occurrences had wonne by his Sword fearing that if the Spaniards should take a place of that importance he looking on to boot with the losse it would much lessen his renowne he assembled his Army which was disperst in their severall quarters and went to Pontestura betweene Cassall and Trino and throwing a Bridge over the Poe he past his Army over on this side though much too weak to buckle with the Spaniard who was provided of all things necessary and whose Army was composed of good Souldiers and made it appeare the French faile not in their courage though upon disadvantagious tearmes He with his Horse pursued the Spaniards who under the command of Don Martin of Aragon were gone to plunder the Towns in the Territories of Vercelles and having layd an anbush whilest the Neapolitans were returning to their quarters with great heards of Cattell he unexpectedly set upon them and after a bloody skirmish wherein though the Italians behaved themselves with courage and constancy they were notwithstanding at the last put to the worst Boccapianola a Neapolitan and Field-Master was there slaine as also Don Iohn di Lelmo Captaine of the Horse Captaine Spadino was taken prisoner and about some 60 Souldiers of which some were of good esteeme for Commanders usually imploy their best Souldiers in businesses of greatest danger On the other side the Duke of Savoy who upon newes of the Spaniards approach fearing Vercelles was come in person thither understanding that the Princes of Este were retired with their men to Leganes commanded Count Verva to go with 4000 Souldiers into the Langhe where he sack't many Townes past over the Poe fired Pieve del Cairo and indeavoured though in vaine to take the Castle of Arazzo for it being well defended by the Spaniards and Don Martin of Aragon comming speedily into the succour of it the Savoyards rose from before it having lost about one hundred of their men During this revolution of affaires the presént condition of the Crowne of Spaine was justly weighed by the piercing wits thereof and the powerfull Forces of France was to their great griefe examined which being wholly united did much annoy the Austrians and by evident example did deceive those who fed themselves with hopes of kindling civill dissention in that Kingdome and did chiefly apply their wits thereunto For the Kings reconciliation to his Brother the Duke of Orelans from whom the Spaniards had received so many assurances made them know they were to ground but little beliefe upon the faith of that Nation which being rivall to theirs would upon occasion make it appeare That though it were treacherous to its King it would be much more false to the Spaniards and that those means were now become desperat by which in former times when the King was under age the Princes of the Kingdome tooke the boldnesse to prescribe Lawes to the unlimited Regall power and that the Cardinall Richelieu a faithfull servant of that Crowne and one of an exquisitely refined judgement knew how to countermine the Spanish Plots They therefore resolved to follow the example of Scipio Affricanus by bringing the Warre into France whilst France made War out of France To this purpose they began to provide for all things necessary to set
upon Languedock a Countrey which extends it selfe from Provence unto the Pirenean Mountaines and which is of a temperate climate very fruitfull and populous by the invasion whereof their intentions were not onely to divert those Forces which threatned Italy and Flanders but that which was of greater consequence to frighten those Inhabitants and see whether by their assistance they could make them take up Armes against the Kings Ministers of State as those who had occasioned the War in France And because almost all the Military men that had imployment in Italy Flanders or elsewhere were sent for from far into the King of Spaines Dominions for the Councell of Spaine thought it not fitting to give the government of an Army in Spaine to one of the same Nation for the preferring of one Subject before the rest in his owne Countrey is to derogate from the pretensions of many others who thinke themselves not inferiour to the partie preferred and to rayse him to too great an height whom they so exalt they were aware of this and therefore sent for Count Iohn Serbellone to command those Forces a Subject of the State of Milan of great esteeme and of experienced worth in Military affairs as well to take him from the pretences he had in the Armies of that State as for the fore-mentioned reasons of shunning emulation amongst themselves as also for Marquis Phillip Spinola Nephew to that great Generall Ambrosius under whom he had beene disciplined When these came to Madrid they were received with much civilitie by the King and Queene and all the Court as those who were thought might be serviceable unto them in the time of War though the wiser sort were of opinion That these were but counterfeit demonstrations of contentment such as are frequently used by such as stand in need of anothers assistance for it was held for certaine that the Spaniards who envie all other Nations desire to monopolize all their Grandezzes within themselves The Duke of Cardona who was commanded to rayse as many men as he could in those Kingdomes had now assembled together an Army of betweene ten and twelve thousand men to boot with other Souldiers remaining in Novar under the Duke of Nocera to watch over the French who by reason of the Spaniards entring in hostile manner into those parts were now become strong and had driven the Spaniards from Bayon where they had met with hard usage The Spaniish Commanders thinking it now fitting time to effect their resolves and Serbellone desirous at his entrance to doe somewhat handsomely they turned their march towards Leucata a Citie in Languedock neere Narbone and not far from the Sea as a place very fit to make way for greater enterprises Their Army being brought before it Serbellone and the Marquis of Mortara tooke up their quarters on the side towards Narbonne Francis Specchi Master of the Field with his men quartered at Franchina and the Duke De monte Reale tooke up his abode at the place called Sferra Cavalli they set a great number of Pioniers on worke in the digging of Trenches as well against the Citie as to keepe off succour and thought verily to take the Towne for the French Forces were afarre off neither did it comply with them to remove them from the Rhyn and from Flanders to imploy them here They planted their Cannon against it and beset it the Catelonians using more bravery with their tongues then with their Swords as never having seene any Squadrons unlesse of Cattell they being for the most part Countrey people But as things suddenly raysed are oft-times as suddenly razed they failed in what they intended for the Allarme being given to all the French thereabouts and those Confines being strengthned by Troops of Horse and Foot speedily sent thither from the neighbouring Provinces by the Governours thereof these men naturally hating the Spaniard did with such hast and fury as is naturall to the French flock to ayde the besieged and the Spaniards being for the most part fresh-men of the Trained Bands and not used to Warre they either knew not how or were not able to resist the fierce assault which the French not valuing their lives made upon their Trenches about three a clock at night on the 28th of September so as it behoved them to give way to the French and bethinke themselves of a retreat which they could not so orderly performe but that they lost all their Artillery their Baggage and about 2000 men The newes whereof being speedily brought to the Court of France was very welcome and made the French looke about them and provide for that which had they not beene awakened by the Spaniards perhaps they would never have drempt of So turning their eye this way they were hereby incited to recover that which was formerly taken away by Ferdinand King of Spaine by reason of Pope Iulius the second his Excommunication thundred out against Iohn Albertââ who sided with Lodovick the twelfth Signior De Schamont was commanded to assemble together as many men as he should judge requisite for the businesse and march towards Parpignon and the Prince of Conde was by His Majestie declared Generall of that Army and for that Affaire As one misfortune comes seldome alone but is followed by a greater if the Spaniards fared ill in Languedock they fared not better in Flanders nor in Lorayne For Prince Thomas and Piccolomini not being able to succour La Chapelle too narrowly beset by the French the besieged having discharged the parts of good Souldiers after having held out valiantly many dayes and now despairing of reliefe they yeelded up the Towne to the French on the 21th of September and Duke Longheville falling with 6000 Souldiers into Lorayne he tooke the strong passage of Doux in Burgundy routed some of Duke Charles his Horse and sackt many Townes in that Province On the other side the Infante finding it impossible for him to relieve Breda the Spaniards having beene received to their no little losse in the Duke of Bullions quarters hee went to the taking in of Ruremond and Venlo Forts possessed by the Hollanders upon the Mosa to see whether by the setting upon these he could remove the Prince of Orenge from the Siege of Breda the which within a few dayes yeelded to him the Garrison not being able longer to defend themselves for the defendants were but few and their Works imperfect This though availed but a little for the taking of Breda was of greater importance to the Hollanders it being strongly seated and whereby they should not onely the better secure their Frontiers on that side but might extend their raising of Contributions even to Antwerpe and Lira then the losse of six Ruremond's The Prince of Orenge therefore continued constant in his Siege and the defendants being reduced to great extremity of all things and wanting succour they yeelded up the Towne on the 10th of October upon the same conditions as were formerly graunted by
indispositions were such as was his for besides the Cough of the Lungs he was of a very weake Complexion The Spaniards likewise much resented the death of this Prince for he being a great Polititian and one who desired to keepe faire with the French to the end that they might permit him quietly to enjoy his owne State but with no intention that they should get further footing in Italy many were of opinion that he held secret intelligence with the Spaniards and that this was a chiefe cause why the State of Milan was no further indammaged for cloaking the secrets of his mind with outward simulation and appearances he dexterously governed the affaires of Warre as they most conduced to his owne end The Spaniards fearing least upon this occasion the French might be brought into the best Forts of Piemont by the Duches meanes in regard of the feare she stood in of her Subjects who were not well inclined to the French and that that State should no more in effect belong to the house of Savoy but onely in outward shew so as they losing the hopes they had therein as the Trench which divides Italy from France they must be inforced to keepe Forces continually on Foot in the State of Milan to defend it from the incursions of the French their contiguous neighbours The Spaniards being much moved for the said reasons sent speedy advertisement of this accident to Spaine Flanders and Germany and did moreover give out That the Duke was poysoned by Crequi his procurement that by such a report they might the more incense his subjects against the French who never departing from those Towns as at first they did began to be very burthensome to the Inhabitants The Marquis Leganes and the other State-Ministers of Spaine advised what they were to doe upon the present emergency at last this being acknowledged to be a wound which if it were suffered to runne on and grow worse all remedies that could be apply'd thereunto hereafter would prove vaine they all agreed in a joynt opinion that they were to doe their utmost as well by force of Armes as cunning and industry in using such meanes as should be most opportune for them without losse of time and whilst by the Dukes death all Piemont was in a confusion and whilst the French had not yet thought of establishing any government there though the French that were in Italy sought rather how they might get into the strong holds of Piemont then into those of Milan By command from Leganes all they that were in Comasco went into the Countrey of Allessandria where the Spaniards hearing that the French Fleet was discovered in the Mediterranian over against Italy and fearing lest landing their men they might attempt some enterprize Don Martin of Aragon and Don Iohn de Garray were sent with some Souldiers into the Lang he to looke to any incursion the French might make on that part but the Spaniards march being discovered by the French who were quartered in Montferrat towards that side they came forth against them and fought with them in the Lang he where the French who were more in number then the Spaniards prevailing Don Martin was necessitated to retreat into the Territories of Allessandria with the losse of 400 of his men The Austrians this meane while understanding that those of Piement being much opprest by the French who treated them as Subjects would willingly imbrace any occasion whereby they might drive them out did cheerfully consent that the Cardinall of Savoy should come into Piemont who was then at Rome conceiving that if he were introduced and admitted to the government of that State who was a friend to Spaine and a very understanding Prince he would have a care to preserve his Nephewes authoritie would have an eye to the sinister proceedings of the French and that being upon all occasions fomented by the Spaniards it would not be hard for him to make them forgoe their quarters in Piemont especially since the Spaniards were growne stronger and the French weaker By nourishing the Warre in Piemont the Spaniards kept the evills thereof from out their owne Territories and which was of greater importance by putting enmitie betweene the Savoyards and French to boot with the increase of Forces of the one and decrease of the others they hoped by driving the French out of Italy to become Masters themselves of the chiefe strengths of Piemont and consequently keepe the Princes thereof at their beck so as if they could have secured themselves from the power of France on this side they certainly would have become very dreadfull to all the rest of Italy To this purpose the Cardinall parted speedily from Rome and came to the State of Genua upon the Confines of Piemont where he found himselfe deceived in his opinion for the French protested to the Duchesse that if she should bring her Brother in law into Piemont they would turne their Forces against her State The Duchesse was therefore inforced to signifie unto him that he should forbeare comming further for she would by no meanes receive him then she her selfe being sufficient to take upon her the government of her Sonne and that so it was her Husbands will she should doe This answer was very bitter to the Cardinall as he witnessed by his sharpe rescenting thereof the rather for that he very well fore-saw the eminent dangers which threatned that State which in other times had beene the Theater of Italies greatnesse in so much as he declared That by the Fundamentall Laws of that State he was to take upon him the administration of the government that his Brothers will was voyd and invalid and that the Statutes of that Dukedome were unalterable which containe that if the Duke dye and leave his Children Orphans the Princes of the Blood be admitted to the government both of the State and them But as no reason is of validitie with those that will not be governed thereby and when there wants sufficient force to compell obedience the Cardinalls pretensions were not allowed of but his Sister in Law sent him word againe willing him to returne to Rome from whence he came And the French fearing that since the Cardinall could not prevaile by his perswasions for admission he would indeavour to effect his desires by the force of Spaine which were all already brought upon those Frontiers and had caused no little suspitions Crequi having now to his no small contentment the sole supreame command of all the Forces in Italy for it is usuall with great men not well to brooke an equall or superior in authoritie thinking that he should now be able to doe some great matter in Italy went with his Army from Montferrat to Poma a Castle betweene Valenza and Casalle neere the River Roaldo guarded by 200 Spaniards who not able to defend themselves forsooke it when they heard of the French mens approach and causing a Bridge to be throwne over the River Poe on the side of Brem
to the French Hee had a solid judgement a temperat minde a goodnesse not despicable he was given to Warre worldly enough and desirous of riches knowing at least imagining that he being a Frenchman and esteemed by his Subjects to be the cause of their misfortunes they did not much affect him which made him not confide in them nay his diffidence grew to so great a hight as he writ whatsoever was of most importance with his owne hand he had wont to keep in writing all the faults committed by his Officers that hee might shew when he would make no further use of them hee had reason for what he did Thus did he dismisse Parma and Caffin the two Secretaries of state shewing them their faults registred for what remaines hee was of good example had a good conscience and perfect will his onely fault being his too much love of Mony hee lived ten yeares Duke of Mantua died when hee was 61 yeares old of such a strength of body as naturally hee might have lived longer The Spaniards did above all other things labour to finde out a means whereby to hinder the French from entring into the strong holds of Piemont with which they were as much troubled as were the consequences great which did depend thereon for hardly should they be able to drive them from those holds wherein being to bee imployed without any impediment from Dolpheny which joynes upon Savoy those Townes would be as it were annext to France and consequently in processe of time the Spaniards would no longer confine upon a Duke but upon a puissant King nothing inferiour to them in strength and should thereby receive such prejudice as states doe by having potent neighbours These considerations causing therefore much thought in the Spaniards they at last light upon one of the best and most singular remedies that could be ââplied to this malady Which was to send for Prince Thomas into the State of Milan as one who was much beloved by the people of Savoy and Piemont to the end that entring Piemont with the Spanish Forces he should either by force perswade the Duchesse to deliver up unto him the government and drive away the French or else by the adherence of the people and holding good intelligence with the Nobility of Piemont make way for such proceedings as happen usually upon like occasions But many things were requisit before this resolution was to be tane secrecy was chiefely esteemed necessary that the French might not be jealous hereof and then they were to contrive their intelligence with such as sided with them they therefore cloaked this their intention and seemed onely to minde the bringing in of more Souldiers from Germany Swisserland Spaine and Naples which occasioning a beliefe in the French that the Spaniards would rather use their power then wits they kept quiet within their owne stations not moving any whither But Don Francisco de Melo who was already gon as hath been said towards Cullen and then towards Flanders having notice of these designes altered his course and turned towards Vienna to negotiat there not onely concerning these agreements but to get succour for the State of Milan which might be sufficient to effect the businesse intended of bringing Prince Thomas into Piemont To the which the affaires of the Empire being very urgent the Dutch Counsellors did not consent for Caesars necessity was much greater then was the Spaniards and the people who were continually grieved with contribution and free-quarter knew the danger of the approaching evill and murmur'd that those who should be kept for their defence should be sent out of the Empire to assist others complaining not without reason of the Emperours ministers of State Yet the Spaniards desires prevailing alwayes with the Emperour it being they that furnish Gold for the succour of Germany and doe their utmost indeavour to maintaine the Imperiall dignity they got leave to raise other Regiments and were in the same sort be-friended by the Arch-Duchesse of Ispruch who suffered them to raise Forces in her State The agreement being afterwards made with the Emperour concerning Prince Thomas his comming into Italy who was informed that the Emperour would invest him in some such dominion as should give him satisfaction out of what hee should win by the assistance of the Spaniards Melo parted from Vienâa and went on his journy towards Flanders This meane while Prince Thomas who had been advertised by the Infante of the Spaniards intentions to give a beginning to the businesse thought it fitting to send the Baron Pallavicino to his brother the Cardinall with whom he might work a perfect understanding so as they might agree secretly upon what would be most advantagious for their Nephews state to the end that it might not be usurped either by the French or Spaniard they thought the occasion fair to send the same Pallavisino to the Duchesse their sister in law to condole the D. death he being fittest for such an imployment and not at all suspected at the Court of Turineâ00 â00 the end that whil'st he made that his errand to the Duchesse he might underhand agree things with those that were friends to the Cardinall Prince Leganes not failing likewise on his part did continually solicit the Viceroyes of Naples and Sicely to ship away other Souldiers that were raised in those Kingdoms and sent Don Diego Patigne to Genoa to agree there for monies He visited the Count Montery Viceroy of Naples at Pegi as he was going for Spain in his return from his government that he might inform him of the present affairs of Lombardy and so Montery might punctually inform the King of Spain of all things better by word of mouth then Leganes could do by letters He reformed his weak Companies added their Souldiers to other Companies that were more compleat he sent likewise Count Biglia with some Monies to Coira to keep the Grisons true who were again tampered with by the French to make them breake with the Spaniards he pretermitted not any thing that might make for the safety of the state of Milan which of all other states was most esteemed of by the Spaniards for if they should once have lost it it would be hard for them to recover it again for that the King of Spain had no other Territories joyning upon it wherein to raise necessary succors the honour of their Army would be lost and they should runne hazard of losing all they had in Italy For the Passages being shut up to any succour from Germany and the succours from Spaine being weake and uncertaine the Protestants of Italy might easily drive the Spaniards from out their Countrey and particularly out of the Kingdome of Naples the subsistance whereof as also all the Spanish Grandezza in Italy depended upon the State of Milan At the newes of these preparations the Duchesse of Savoy who was a very couragious Princesse began notwithstanding to be somewhat apprehensive for she very well
fore-saw that Piemont was likely to be the Sceance whereon all the Warre betweene those two Crownes was to be acted She called her Counsell together and advised upon what was fitteââ to be done upon the present and did openly declare That though she were the King of France his Sister yet she was Mother to the Duke of Savoy and that she thought her selfe more concerned in her Sonne then in her Brother The present affaires were had in consultation and very well discust It was generally agreed upon by all that if they might be suffered to be Neuters and not to declare themselves for either partie it would be the wisest course they could take The bringing of the Cardinal into the government was also discoursed of to which some were inclined for if he shold come thither the King of France his Forces might be prejudiced by assistance from Spaine and doubtlesly the French turning their threats into handsome desires and efficacious promises would rather indeavour to divert the Duchesse from siding with the Spaniard and to hold good correspondency with her Brother then exasperate her against them and peradventure this would have beene the best resolution they could have put on But there were in it such difficulties as it behoved them to leave the thought thereof for besides that the government of one so neere of blood to the Heire afforded cause of jealousie the Duchesse as are all other Princes being desirous to be chiefe in the government and not to admit of a Companion would not give way thereunto But that which did chiefly hinder the taking such a resolution was the King of France his protestation who threatned that if the Piemontois should take the Cardinal into the State belonging to the Duke of Savoy he would presently wage Warre with them and the French being already masters of the strongest and most important passages of Savoy and Piemont they would straightwayes have brought that State into evident danger They likewise fore-saw that they were not to ground their hopes upon assistance from Spaine for though the French should be beaten which would not easily be done if they should really intend such a Warre it was not to be doubted but that whilest the Spaniards warred in Piemont those Townes which should have escaped the insolencies of the French would have tasted the Spaniards indiscretion and so much the rather for that they had not as then any hope to carry the Warre on the other side the Mountaines for the French being possest of Casalle and the greatest part of Montferrat it would require some time to drive them from thence and therefore the Warre would be maintained in the bowells of Piemont to the great prejudice of those Inhabitants They being then of two evills to chuse the least resolved to put themselves totally upon the protection of France and to this purpose the Marquis Parelo was sent by the Duchesse to her Brother to desire succour and assistance although this was knowne to be a hazardous resolution for not being able to put themselves into the protection of France without receiving the French into their strong holds they would not be easily got to forgoe them so as either by permitting them to Lord it there the Dukes authoritie must be lost or else the Spanish Forces which most apprehended this neighbour-hood if they should endeavour to drive them out by force the State of Piemont would first be ruin'd by their encamping and if afterwards things should happen successefully and the Spaniards be brought into that State they would have the better pretence to keepe it as the purchase of their Swords Whence it is easily seene what prejudice such States receive as have Infants for their supreme Lords But as the Austrians prepared by all meanes possible to ruine France so were not the French idle in contriving how to countermine the Spaniards cunning which they much apprehended and at the same time that the Spaniards built their designes upon the Prince of Savoy the French who confided very much in Duke Waymers valour began to lay the foundations of their future Fabrick So as Waymers Army being much increased by recruits from France and by moneys he had received from them wherewithall to satisfie the Dutch he thought it no longer time to keepe idle in his quarters but fore-going them in Chapell and the Countrey of Fistemberg he kept the Fields with his united Army in those Territories which caused the Austriââs to doubt whether he intended to march against Bavaria or else to enter Rhetia to revenge the injuries done to Rohan Divers were their suspitions and their discourses divers but whilst every one not without much feare stood expecting where this blow should fall foreseeing some mischiefe Waymer on the sudden and unexpectedly came before Rinfield which in his absence was againe taken by the Austrians where he planted his Cannon and according to his wonted diligence playd upon the Walls So as though the Towne were well defended by a good Garrison yet it not being a place fit to resist the moderne violences of the Pick-Axe and Mines it was not able to be maintained many dayes without sudden fitting relief The Imperiall Commanders whose Forces were increased by succours sent from Bavaria and Franconia thought it not honourable for their Prince nor that it became their reputation to suffer such a Citie besieged but by a few to be lost whilst they looked on mature deliberation being had in the Councell of Warre concerning what was to be done it was resolved that Duke Savell and Iohn de Wert should goe to the succour of it they therefore marched with their Army which consisted of about 12000 fighting-men in good order to effect their purpose But being advertised that Speureter one of their Colonells was come to about Lindaw and Constance with 4000 Souldiers with command to joyne with them they resolved to expect his comming before they went any further Therefore they haulted in Obercal Schoma and Lomat Villages betweene Friburg and Rinfield and by great fires gave notice to the besieged that they were upon their march to succour them to the end that they might be the more constant in maintaining the Towne They afterwards dispatcht away Posts to Speureter to hasten his comming to them continuing their resolution of succouring the Towne and in Battell Array advanced towards the Swedish quarters Waymer being advertised by his Spies that the Imperialists were not strong enough to effect this designe sent some Troopes of Horse and two Regiments of Foot on this side Rhyn and doubling the Guards on that part continued his Siege no wayes fearing the Enemy The Caesarians seeming as if they would turne toward Laâfâmburg that by taking that Towne which was not fit to resist the Cannon they might become Masters of the passage over the Rhyn unexpectedly fell upon the stations guarded by the Swedes who surprised by this accident and not being able to withstand the furious assault given by the
He loved and acknowledged himselfe beholding to a pen that could write without paine to an easie pen and hee held that those Princes were happy in this behalfe who were reverenced by an ingenious writer hereby said he the understanding is inlightned doubts are expounded mens mindes are cleered and Counsells are strengthned hee thought notwithstanding there were but few that were good at the knowing remembring and writing what they had seen and heard and on the contrary he pittied those who were guided by a presumptuous information by a false signification by an ill grounded judgement for by these Counsels doe miscarry wisedome is confounded resolutions are perverted Hee oft-times interpreted things quite amisse and was so resolute in what he conceited that he thereout framed to himselfe assured confidence he was so great an Enemy to the Spaniards as hee hated even those that spoke well of them and when his King had not as yet any warre with them his antipathy was such unto them as he indeavoured their mischiefe as much as in him lay and would say that the Spaniards love nor esteem not any Nation but their own so all men knowing their affections to be feigned ought to hate them he left no heirs male behind him had onely one Daughter who as is reported is one of the fairest Ladies in all France Those of Rinfeild being strangely cast downe by this defeat failing now of the hopes they had of being succoured and being more and more pursued by the Swedes who desirous to proceed to further enterprises did sorely torment them they resolved to treat and to surrender up the place which insued upon their permission to march out with their Armes and Baggage and to be convoyed to Brisack Waymer being incouraged by these prosperous successes to thinke upon greater enterprises advanced forward tooke Chitzenghem and Triburg and to the great griefe of all the Romanists who much dreaded this affaire he sat downe before Brisack and began to make exact workes and redoubts for his owne defence and to put an end to that siedge And that the Army might not want munition nor any thing necessary to boot with the provisions made by the French in Colmar Waymer chose Rinfield for the Magazine whether all things requisit to effect the worke was to be brought These proceedings of Waymer together with the defeat and imprisonment of Iohn de Wert as they were of great importance so was the Duke of Bavaria the more troubled thereat who being a wise Prince foresaw what prejudice might redound to his Dominions if the French should nestle themselves in Alsatia and particularly if by the losse of Brisack they should together with this place of refuge have the Passage free over the Rhyn whereby his state would ly open to their invasion and might easily become a prey unto the Enemy or else he must be inforced to keep a great Army to defend it which would be very grievous to his Subjects Hee substituted Ghets in the place of Iohn de Wert and made him Generall of all the Forces of the League and commanded him to raise what few Forces he could in the Dukedome of Wirtemburg that hee might have an eye to Waymers proceedings and use his best skill for the preservation of Brisack Now to returne to the other side the Marquis Leganes who had provided all things necessary in the state of Milan not onely for the maintaining of that Dukedome but was so increased in numbers by fresh recruits from Spaine Naples and Germany as that he had an Army on Foot able in respect of the weaknesse of the French to undertake any thing not willing to temporise any longer and thereby whilest the Enemy proceeded so prosperously in Alsatia afford his enviers occasion of murmuring against him but so to behave himselfe that what the Austrians lost in one place they might get in another hee therefore whilst Waymer was busie about Brisack brought his Army to the Territories about Valenza disposed of all things necessary for a Camp in the neighbouring Townes tooke some pieces of great Ordnance from the Castle of Pavia and provided hay for the Horses so as all Italy stood expecting what the Spaniards intentions were And diverse were the discourses and considerations that were had hereupon Some who weighed the importancy of Brisack wondred not a little that at a time when the Spaniards ought to preserve that Fort which was the key of those Provinces and the sanctuary of their subsistance in those parts they should onely minde the agrandizing of themselves in Italy and that instead of succouring a place of such importance with Forces from Italy as at other times they had done they should demand and take men from those Provinces the more to strengthen their Army in Lombardy Others said that the Spaniards now saw how hard a matter it was to raise men in Italy as also elsewhere by reason of the so continuall drawing forth of Souldiers consumed in so many and so long Warres that therefore Germany being of a contrary climat to Italy it was a bad businesse for them to deprive themselves of that strength of Militia which upheld the Spanish greatnesse in Italy Others affirmed that the Spaniards did not greatly mind those parts because they little feared the French Forces should make any great progresse there aswell for that neither the Swissers nor Dutch were well-pleased that so great a King should extend his power to their Frontiers as also that they thought the people of Bavaria and Burgundy and the Emperours Forces sufficient to succour that Towne and they hoped that the jealousie the Dutch had of the French who by antipathy are not greatly liked of them would make them thinke of a meanes to moderate their excesse of greatnesse But those who thought they could dive deepest into the Spaniards bosome said that the Spaniards did so much value the state of Milan and were so desirous to Lord it in Italy as they did more consider that then all the world besides For the King of Spaines possessions in Italy being the greatnesse of his Crowne and the Dukedome of Milan of it selfe and for reasons of State the most considerable place he was Master of there consequently the Spaniards intentions were not onely to preserve it but to increase it and because the Spaniards were of all things else most vext that the French had opened the way into Italy and concentred themselves in the most important Fort of Casall flanking upon their Dominions whereby their power was much diminished and the power of the French increased to their so much griefe as they were formerly content to see themselves the one Arbitrators of affaires in those parts So as not regarding any other interest in comparison hereof they chiefely indeavoured to drive the French out of Montferrat to remit themselves into their former Authority and to make themselves be more reverenced intending afterwards when they should be victorious in Italy to recover the places they
Crabats going before as is their custome light upon some Swedish Companies cut 300 of them in pieces and took about a hundred Carriages of Victuals from them which they were bringing from Wertemberg unto Waymers Army Mongagliards triall who was governour of Brem was now had in Cassall and he being found guilty of high Treason for having abused the Kings pay to the so great prejudice of the King his master and been the cause of the losse of the place by converting it to his owne use hee was adjudged to lose his head which accordingly hee did in the market place of the said Town on the 22th day of Aprill his goods were confiscated and a Pillar erected in the market place to perpetuate the memory of such a Treason and for the example of all such as are governours of any Fort who when occasion shall serve ought rather to chuse death then an ignominious Surrender The end of the fourteenth Book The Warres and other State-Affaires of the best part of Christendome THE XV. BOOK The Contents of the Fifteenth Book The Swedes are much troubled by the Duke of Saxonies continued hostility They summon a Dyet and resolve to continue the Warre in Germany The Cardinall of Valette goes to Piemont to take the Command of the French Forces He makes the Governour of Cassall be beheaded to the great restentment of the Mantuans The Spaniards goe to the taking of Vercelles and effect it The French enter into Biscay take Airon and besiege Fontarabbia The Venetian Fleet fight with 17. Turkish Galleys in the Haven of Vellona and get the Victory Ghets endeavours to succour Brisacke but is routed by Weymar Fifteene Spanish Gallies fight with as many French within sight of Genua and are beaten The Spanyards make great preparations towards Mount-ferrat The young Duke of Savoy Francis Giacinto dyes and much of Novelty iâ occasioned thereby Francis Duke of Modena goes to the Court of Spaine The Dolphine of France is born to the great contentment of all that Kingdome Rupert Prince Palatine of Rhine is routed by Azfelt taken prisoner and carried into Austria Weymar routs some of the Duke of Lorreyns souldiers and takes the little Fort of the Bridge before Brisack The Imperialists require succour for Brisack from the Spanyards in Italy SUch were the preparations for Warre made on all sides by the Austrians and such was the Elector of Saxonies constancy in union with Caesar against the Crowne of Swethland as that the Swedes being thereat confused and no lesse incensed they were frequent in their Counsells and in using all oportune expediences how to prevent that mischiefe which they saw ready to fall upon them and they were much the more troubled for that they saw the Princes of the same Religion ready to fall into the same precipice for they knew that in policy it was not good for that Elector but was repugnant to the reasons of State to suffer the Sweeds to be driven beyond the Sea For by their being Masters of the strong holds in Pomerania a diversion was maintained a counterpoyse which at any time when the Imperiall Power should aime at the absolute Monarchy of Germany would fitly ballance and maintaine the authority of the Electors and of the other Princes of Germany in their vigorous degree for being in the midst between two great ones when one of them should plot to bring them to their subjection they would presently out of state interest be assisted by the other and so being able by the helpe of the one to contend with the other their correspondency would be the more esteemed by their neighbours on the other side The Elector notwithstanding as it oft times fares with those who being mastered by their passions doe sometimes wander out of the right way and especially when their Counsellours being by their owne particular interests made to side with other Princes sooth their Masters in what they are most inclined unto being now as much an enemy and hating the Sweeds as much as he formerly was their friend and shewed himself affectionate to them continuing his spleene and preparing by all meanes to work them mischiefe afforded the Sweedish Ministers of State occasion of thought The Sweeds knew of what consequence the maintaining of their armies in Germany was to the interest of their Kingdome wherein they now having gotten a great repute and their name being grown famous which formerly inclosed in the most remote corners of the North was unknown to other Nations such an augmentation of State was of great consideration the Crowne of Swethland being thereby the more strengthened and they reaping no usuall advantage by the Warres of Germany so as they were not to forgoe such meanes whereby they might proceede how to keep what they had gotten To boote with the publique Interest the Swedes were moved hereunto in regard of their own particulars For by the plunder of those Townes they enriched their owne persons most of them being but of meane fortunes and by their traffique in the Havens of Pomerania and Germany from the like in Swethland they enriched their publike magazines and Ware-houses bettering thereby as well the publique as the private so as so specious an atchievement and which was with so much labour gotten ought to be by all meanes possible preserved The Swedes being moved by these and other greater reasons and understanding how the Saxons strengthened by continuall Austrian recruits pursued Bannier they summoned a Dyet of the States Generall of Swethland wherein the importancy of affairs being maturely discussed it was with joynt consent agreed upon that the War should be continued and to that purpose that a new levy should be made of 12000. Foote and 3000. horse to recruite their Armies and to provide for all things that were necessary for the maintenance thereof The French likewise were not unmindefull to provide for such things as made most for their greatnesse and for the continuation of the Warre And they found there was no more powerfull diversion to weaken the Spanyards Forces in Flanders in Alsatia upon which their thoughts were then wholly bent then by carrying fire home to their owne houses to the end that being intent to quench that they could not so easily runne to extinguish farre-off combustions They found no better way how to overthrow those Councells which being solidly taken in the Court of Spaine do usually produce ingenuous wayes how to get what belongs unto another then by affording them occasion of spending their time in thinking upon their own defence They knew that to boote with keeping the forces of Italy employed in the State of Milaine so as they could not over-run Alsatia it was also not little advantagious to stop the recruites which might from Spaine come into Flanders Italy for the Spanyards were to keep an Armie in their owne Kingdome and that this was one of the most probable courses which could make for the good of the French to wit
to deprive Flanders and Italy from being assisted from Spaine whence it proceeded that these being Countreyes much esteemed of the Spaniard and not able to receive usuall succours from them those of Germany must demand aide from the Emperour who if he should grant it the Empire being bereft thereof in such case the Swedes progresse into Bohemia and Duke Weymars in Alsatia would be the more easie so as either in Spaine or else-where the French must needs prevaile To boote therefore with many warlike preparations made in Guien a Province which extends it selfe from the Pirenean mountaines to the Confines of Guascony where all things were prepared fitting for the Warre of Biscay and the Body of an Army assembled consisting of 12000. Foot and 2500. Horse whereof Monsieur de Gramont was by the King made Lieutenant Generall the Prince of Conde was commanded to invade Biscay and to march with his Forces with all possible diligence into that Province And to the end it might not be believed that the beginning of this warre should be the ending or at least the weakning of the rest to boot with the directions and reinforcements sent to Weymar to put an end to the businesse of Brisacke the Marishall Schatillion was charged to march to the Frontiers of Artoise towards Arras with 14000. Foote and 4000. Horse that he might bee ready to take in Saint Omers a strong Fort seated between the River Ley and Graveling by the which the French might the better strengthen the Confines of France and open their way into Flanders where there being no strong holds of any moment a great part thereof would fall into the hands of the French Which the Spaniards wisely discovering and knowing how great a blemish such a losse would be to their splendor they furnisht it with all things requisite for the preservation thereof and the Infante that hee might not bee hindred from sending in succour and that hee might remove the French from those their undertakings sent many troops of souldiers towards Arleax betweene Cambray and Buchaime The Cardinall of Vallette whose assistance in Piemont was very requisite came about this time to Turim and encouraged those who were dismaid to see the sumptuous preparatioÌs of the Spaniards and the weake applications of the French And understanding how the Spaniards had sent the Abbot of Vasques to Mantua to treate with the Dutchesse and that Don Diego de Scaivedera was gone thither likewise he imagined their businesse might be concerning the affaires of Montferrat and suspected that the Dutchesse of Mantua who was said to be more inclined to the Spaniards then to the French by reason of her consanguinity and as more approving of their behaviours not being able to endure that the French should appropriate unto themselves the patronage or protection of Montferrat and that she should only have the bare Title thereof without any manner of authority might have plotted some intelligence with the Spaniards to free those parts from being quartered upon by the French where their abode was not well liked of by the Mantuans who pretended that that State should be independant upon any other Prince of Italy and that the French should not patronize themselves thereof under the specious pretence of the Dukes Protectors The Cardinall thereof fore-seeing the prejudice which might ensue unto the French Forces if Cassalle which was the place of refuge for their Armies should bee taken out of the French mens hands and this his suspition being now become a certainty for that the intelligence was discovered by a little note which casually fell from Octavius Montegli Governour of Cassall and came to the hands of the French who had not deserved to bee so rewarded by the Mantuans hee therefore under severall pretences brought many French troopes into the Towne wherewith hee drove all those of Montferrat out of the Citadell took the said Montegli prisoner and set a good guard upon him and immediately dismissed out of the Town the Counts Iacomo and Rolando Nata the Marquess of Langosco and Father Capriato a Capuchin Fryar and looking more narrowly to the Spaniards hee was very carefull of the preservation of that place as of all the rest in Montferrat wherein having only French Garrisons he caused such jealousies in the Spaniards as this was sufficient to keep the assistance of Italy which was so much dreaded in Alsatia and Flanders within the State of Milan But all these provisions of the French for the maintaining of Montferrat and Piemont were greater in appearance then in substance For the Cardinall came into Piemont with an intention to vindicate the credite of the French Forces but with so small a Militia as that it was plainely seene the French either wanted Forces to manage the war in Italy to their advantage or that they cared not then for the affaires of Lombardy having greater businesse in hand elsewhere The Spaniards who above all things else were troubled with the neighbour-hood of the French by which the authority they pretended to have in Italy was much lessened knew it was not now time to loose oportunity but to betake themselves to such things as might make most for the State of Milan Thus Leganes having mustered his Army about Valenza under pretence of feare of the French who were come along with the Cardinall he resolved to betake himselfe to the taking in of Vercelles as a place flanking too much upon the State of Milan and by the winning whereof he should not only bereave the French of a place of retreat who being hereby backt might the easilier make Warre against the Millanoise and did the better secure themselves from being invaded in Montferrat or Piemont but the Spaniards should enlarge their Territories and open their way into the heart of Piemont and place themselves neare Montferrat against which they might with more oportunity take fitting resolutions And that which imported most was that by the taking hereof the French would be ill thought of by those of Piemont for not having succoured them and by opening their way into Piemont it would be no difficult businesse upon Prince Thomas his arrivall totally to alter that State and to bring many of the Inhabitants to side with the Princes of Savoy But the Spaniards fearing lest by the moving of their Army their intentions might be discovered and that consequently a stronger Garrison might be put into Vercelles and greater provisions made for the defence thereof so as they should meete with greater difficulties in the attempt that they might make the French believe their intentions were to invade Montferrat Leganes sent Don Vincensa Gonsaga with some companies of horse towards Trino and Don Ferante de Monti with other troops of horse towards Cassall and he himselfe by night on the seventh of May taking his Army from out their Quarters came before Vercelles where dividing immediately their Quarters Leganes placed himselfe at Saint Bartholmeo a mile without the City he placed the Spaniards
by Goltz And here he fighting himself with his sword in his hand and by his example infusing courage into the other souldiers and Captaines the battle grew so hot as shooting being given over nothing was seen but swords smeared with blood men and horses overturned and trod on by their own companions Ghetz all this while looking on that hee might come in according to appointment when Goltz and the other Captaines should have made the breach which they vaunted they would doe advanced not one inch for knowing that the enemie had likewise a reserve he intended not to hazard the whole Army unlesse hee should see the Van prevaile somewhat he therefore kept his station and would not follow his compagnions They being therefore hotly pursued by Weymars fresh men were forced to think of a retreat which ensued in such disorder as some French troopes had leisure to do no small execution upon the Caesarians Weymar pursuing Goltz in the same manner handled him so as the greatest part of his men were either slaine or taken prisoners whereat Savell and Goltz were so incensed exclaiming against Ghetz and upbraiding him with cowardize and unworthinesse as they by their letters to the Emperour Duke of Bavaria did accuse him of being the cause of all their losse and mischiefe Which being received as a trueth for great men must never acknowledge to have erred in their Commissions the miscarriage of their men and Weymars valour being attributed to Ghetz his mis-governement Philip Count Mansesielt Captain of the Emperours Guard was sent into Alsatia with ample authority to enquire into this accident to provide for what was necessary to the preservation of that importaÌt place The Romanists Army was much troubled at these disagreements For besides the losse of 4000. of the best men Ghetz had they greatly murmured against Ghetz his backe friends as if they had accused him falsely and seemed not to be well pleased with the processe that was making against him giving out in a skarpe and bitter manner that good and faithfull servants were through the wickednesse of their enemies and envyers rewarded with imprisonment so as the mischief that was hereupon likely to ensue was very great Ghetz having foreseen all these proceedings for hee very well knew that this successe as it would be related by the emulation of other Commanders would not only prejudice his reputation but bring his life in danger for such omissions as prove harmfull to the State are seldome favourably interpreted by Princes and oft times judged by Justice it selfe when blinded with passion he made his addresse to the Emperour with whom for his ancient services he was held in some esteem and who he knew had better respect unto and did more love his faithfull servants to the end that enterposing his Imperiall authority with the Duke of Bavaria he might not suffer him to be injured by the false informations of his enemies nor that integrity abused with which hee had at all times served his Prince offering willingly to enter himselfe into any of his Caesarian Majesties Forts and submit to the sentence of his just Tribunall To which the Emperour in his good nature was ready to condiscend had not the Duke of Bavaria who was advertised hereof sent suddenly an expresse messenger to Vienna to entreat his Majestie not to undertake the defence of an Officer of his whose faults were of too tender a condition and assuring him that all right and Justice should be observed in his processe Wherefore Ghetz being sent for to give an account of his actions was with a good guard brought into Bavaria The French being risen from before Saint Omer and Marishall Schattillion being joyned with Signieur de St. Previll in the parts about Ardres to make amends for the last ill successe and recover the reputation wherein the French seemed to suffer he resolved to storm Rentij For this Fort being built upon a passe of no small consideration upon the Frontiers of France by the taking of this place of refuge from the Spaniards they would not know how to make inrodes into the parts thereabouts and the way would be the more open for the French to enter freely into the dominions of Spaine He therefore came unexpectedly before the place and planted his Cannon against it and in a short time tooke it by storm and the French not having need thereof as having other Forts neer at hand it was forth-with slighted by command from the King and the people therein disperst into the neighbouring parts and haulting upon these Frontiers quarters were frequently beaten up skirmishes made by the horse of both sides the Commanders were very vigilant in keeping what they had got At this time 15. Gallies were come into the Port de Vado with about 1500. Foot part from Barcellona and part from Cesely who expected orders here from Milan where they should land their men When Don Roderigo de Valesco a Spaniard who in the Generalls absence commanded therein in chiefe understanding that the French Gallies were discovered to be in the Genoan Sea and knowing them to be but 15. and a Brigandine called a Councell of the chief Spaniards where it being argued whether they should fight or keepe quiet in the Haven it was the joynt opinion of all that they should set upon the French They therefore put to Sea and were little above seven miles from Genoa when they began about ten a clock in the morning on the first of September to salute each other with their Cannon and at last falling to boord with their swords and half-pikes the action grew so bloody as great was the slaughter which was made amongst the souldiers and much was the blood which ran out from the fore-decks and sides of the Gallies for many of the Knights of Malta being in the French Gallies who are accustomed to Sea-fights the fight was very hot on both sides but at last the French prevailing it behoved the Spaniards to flye with the loss of 6. of their Gallies amongst which the Capitana of Secely and Padrona of Spain And taking there of the French Gallies which for want of souldiers and Marriners were left at Sea and which were La Marishalla La Vanbelle and La Sernier the rest saved themselves within the Haven of Genoa The fight continued the space of 2. hours which being thus ended a storm arose the next night wherein the French Gallies lost La Patrona di Spagna by the breaking of the rope wherewith she was towed which being afterwards found by some Tartane and Coraline was brought to Genoa having first taken out of her all the money goods that was in her which was left with the chiefe Magistrate of Albenga and which was all afterwards restored to the French though to the small satisfaction of the Spaniard as causing strange rumors The Spainish gallies parting afterwards from Genoa came to Porto Fino to mend the harms they had received by
with the change of Officers the estimation was also changed which was formerly put upon his merit and quality but that it did proceed from simulation where-withall the spots of the mind are covered and that Azfelt was desirous to enter into his place and thereunto perswaded by the backing of such as favoured him he continued his former desires and obtained leave to stay in Bohemia til he should have perfectly recovered his health in which interim time might peradventure teach him to thinke upon some other course Marcini was likewise commanded to joyn with the Duke of Saxons men and that afterwards joyning with Salis the Generall of the Artillery who was about Sala with some 6000. souldiers they should unanimously oppose the enemies proceedings on this side whilst Azfelt molested them on the other side And the Emperour that he might be neerer them to give them fitting orders resolved to remove his Court to Prague The Regiments of Colonell Cheinitz and Colonell Posen both of them the Duke of Saxons subjects were brought into Lypsia and for what remained nothing was left undone which was thought convenient to the wisedome of Councells some moneyes were sent to Slich who was already come into Bohemia wherewithall to satisfie the souldiers and appease the tumults which were made for want of pay and the usuall contribution of the countrey which was already wholly desolated But as provisions which are made in hast and in sight of the enemie use to be but of little availement for the feare they have of no good successe and the confusion occasioned by hast doth exceedingly impede that assurance which otherwise is had when men are in a readinesse to defend themselves with sufficient strength so these hasty prepatations serving but to imbase mens minds make the souldier fearfull did little good For Bannier whilst these spent their time in advising losing no time tooke Torgaw Newenburg upon the Sala and other places belonging to the Elector of Saxony and without any opposition was already Master of the field keeping about Lipsicke and the Frontiers of Bohemia to the great astonishment of those people many whereof not thinking themselves safe in Prague it selfe fled with the best of their moveables into Townes towards the Danube And their apprehensions were so much the greater in that Salis the Austrians Serjeant-Major Generall pretending to beate backe Bannier and hinder him from advancing further went to the parts about Elchenitz to relieve Zucka which was besieged by the enemie where he met with some Sweeds who scoured those countreyes and who charged him so eagerly as that his fore-runners turning backe at the very first and the rest apprehending feare by their flight Salis had much adoe to save himselfe and some few of his horse by getting into Egra having lost about 500. of his men 10. Standards 14. Ensignes the newes whereof comming to Zucka they immediately surrendred the Towne on the 7th of March as likewise did Chimenits which was besieged the same time Whilst the Sweeds prospered daily more and more in Germany against the Saxons whilst Weymar tooke in such places in Burgondy as being weakly scituated and walled could not withstand his fierce assaults and whilst preparations for War were daily made upon the Frontiers of Picardy Prince Thomas went post from Flanders and came to Trent from whence sending speedy advertisement to Milan and to his Brother the Cardinall Don Iohn d'Artagia Captaine of the Guard was forth-with sent by Leganes to meete him upon the Confines The Cardinall came to Lodi and sent the Counts of Mossano and Masserati to welcome him when he came on the tenth of March to Vaniero Leganes Don Martin d'Aragona Don Antonio di Sermiento the Lord Chancellour and an infinite number of Cavalliers and Tituladoes came to meete him Where having stayed some sixe hours and agreed upon the way how he might enter into Piemont they returned the same night to Meltsi a place belonging to Cardinall Triuulsio and the next morning to Millan strict orders being afterwards given to the Governour of Alessandria and to those of Brem and Vercelles that they might make greater provision of Hay and corne for horses in those parts Don Martin d' Aragona was sent towards Alessandria with orders to assemble together all the souldiery and to be ready to put in effect such resolutions as should be agreed upon And because Princes never use to let slip any negotiation when the keeping of them on foote is not prejudiciall to them Prince Thomas sent the Baron Palavesine and the Count de Saravelle to his Sister in Law the Dutchesse Dowager to acquaint her with his pretences who returning from their fruitlesse journey informed his Highnesse how that great were the cummotions in Turin and throughout all Piemont occasioned by his comming and by his pretences whereupon he tooke better heart and the Spaniards hoped more in their designes For the Inhabitants of Piemont who pretended that all their misfortunes arose from the French and who would be better pleased with the government of their owne naturall Princes then in making tryall of the interest they had of the French or of the Spaniards hostility greatly desired though to their own losse to be quit of that feare which was insupportable to them Therefore after many consultations they put on such resolutions as were thought convenient to effect their designes and Commission was sent to Aragon who had already gathered together about 7000. Foot and 1500. horse in the parts of Alessandria that he should goe to the Lange to take in Cingio a place not contemptible and wherein was a French Garrison And it was ordered that Prince Thomas should goe to Novar and from thence to Vercelles And that the Cardinall should goe towards Astigiano with some other Forces to see whether he could get into that Citie or no for the French-men going into the Lange to attend upon the proceedings of Don Martin Prince Thomas might easily effect what was agreed upon amongst them And therefore after Leganes was come on the 17th of March to Margiano where both the Princes of Savoy were expecting the Spaniards resolution to their desires which were that they might enter Piemont by reason of the Spanish Forces but as in their owne right and here againe consultations being had of what course was best to be taken the Princes againe demanded that they might be permitted to enter Piemont with the Spanish forces as lent unto them by the King of Spaine and not otherwise for that the Subjects being hereby encouraged would be the more willingly brought to agree with them when they should see their Princes enter in their owne names and the Nobility would have better grounded pretences to side with them since their reason for so doing would appeare legitimate it being to keepe that State from falling into the hands of strangers They further shewed that to have the Spaniards enter into lieu of the French was not the right way to win
the affections of the Subjects and to dispose of them as they desired for when they should see that on one side or other They were to commit Treason against their Prince by receiving in of Strangers and submitting themselves unto them the Spaniards being much more hatefull to the Inhabitants of Piemont then are the French they would be more wary in falling upon any such resolution But though these reasons were very strong yet did they not prevaile with Leganes for he pretending hee could not alter his directions he had received from Spaine declared he intended not to make War for any others then for his King nor that he had any other directions then to prosecute the French and those who should assist them hee said hee would acquaint the Court of Spain with their desires and endeavour that they might be satisfied therein But all this was an outward shew for it was plainely seene the Spaniards would not engage themselves in any thing whereout they could reape no profit For they considered that when the Princes of Savoy should by meanes of the Spanish Forces have possest themselves of the strong holds of Piemont or by some other way come to an accord with the Dutchesse or by the young Dukes death the Cardinall should become Duke there was no doubt but when any of these should happen they would so behave themselves as that neither the Spaniards nor French should be suffered to nesle themselves there in such sort as to become arbitrators of their wil. Moreover since it complied not with the Duke of Savoyes interest that Montferrat should fall into the hands of Spaniards 't was apparant that the business of Cassalle would either openly or under-hand be impeeded nor would they suffer that the Spaniards should keep in Vercelles nor in the other Towns of that State So as it seemed more probable if it should so fall out that they would joyne with the French to recover what they had lost to better their condition by some new atchievement and to keep the Spaniards within their own limits then obliege themselves to depend upon them and upon their pleasure And though there were some that said these things would not easily happen since Prince Thomas his Wife and Children were in Spaine as Hostages of his Loyalty and greater then which none can be given yet were these reasons rejected by those that knew that the Dukedome fell not upon Prince Thomas but upon the Cardinall The Spanyards therefore who maturely considered all these particulars persisted in their resolution of not entering into Piemont in any other manner then hath beene said For when their Garrisons should be in the Dukes Forts the Conquest would be the Spaniards not the Savoyards and keeping themselves therein the businesse of Cassalle would be the more easie and the French fore-going Italy would at the same time easily be driven out of Piemont which otherwise would hardly be effected And if Piemont should fall into the hands of the Spaniards and that the French should be shut up on the other side the mountains the Spaniards having no further reason to feare the ficklenesse of the Savoyards there is no doubt but that being secured from the incursions of the French they would by their armies endeavour to possess themselves of the rest of Italy These were the hidden ends and the ambitious desires of the Spaniards though these endeavours were by some thought to be ill undertaken as likely to prove harmfull to the undertaker For the bundle they grasped at was too great and the Princes of Italy growing hereat jealous and the French better advised the one and the other of them would put on such resolves as yet they kept secret within their owne breasts Yet the Spaniards enamoured of their owne vast hopes herein fixed their mindes here and used all the art they could how to erect so great a building 'T was therefore knowne the Savoy Princes were not inwardly pleased with these proceedings who clearely saw the Spaniards ruinous ends Notwithstanding since what is once famed abroad doth oft times draw after it the repugnant will and the desire of glory blinding the wisdome of the intellect these Princes not being able to disingage themselves without failing in their enterprize covering the bitternesse of their soule with the sweete of simulation they seemed outwardly as if they would wholly depend upon the Spaniard and disposed themselves to follow their advice till they should have compast that which once had they would afterwards appear in such colours as should make most for their purpose And therefore having at the same time more clearely learned what good will the people of Piemont bore them and the forwardnesse of those that sided with them by the arrivall of Il Patremoniale Molletta who was receiver of the Rents of Piemont which belonged to these Princes The Princes went to Pavia to purge themselves a little and Leganes retârning immediately to Millan went on the 19 of March towards Novar accompanied by Don Antonio di Sermiento the Abbas Vasques Marquess Lonati and Don Gonsales d' Olivara to expect the comming of Prince Thomas thither having all things in a readines speedily to compasse their desired ends Don Martin d' Aragona being at this time encamped before Cingio and having to facilitate the businesse shut up all the passes of those mountaines by which reliefe might be brought and thinking it no lesse requisite to take the Towne and Castle of Salicetto not farre distant from the said Cingio wherein there was a Garrison of about 300. French he sent Don Lewis de Lancastro with some troops to make himself Master thereof Where having planted his Cannon begun the siege which seemed not to promise to good successe the souldiers therein defending themselves with extraordinary valour Don Martin who much desired hast in this affaire and that it might be expedited before succour could come from the French who by placing themselves there might disturb the siege of Cingio he went thither himselfe in person and as he was discovering the Scituation viewing the Trenches of approach he was slain with a musquet bullet which hit him on the head on the 13. of March to the great griefe of Lancastro and the whole Armie for besides that he was a Gentleman very well acquainted in the managing of werlike and poletique affaires he was so courteous in all his actions as that he wonne the affection of as many as knew him Amongst other good things that were observable in him he was very sincere and faithful in all his words and actions whereupon if any one at any time should seeme not much to rely or to confide in he was wont to say believe it and feare not because I am a Spaniard I promise it thee as a Dutch Cavallier Don Lewis notwithstanding not abasht for this misfortune but rather setting more hotly upon Salicetta hee enforced it to surrender before the succour came So as all the Forces being brought
before CINGIO much diligence was used in the opugning of that place and the more for that Don Antonio Sottello being sent to command the Forces there in the place of Don Martin that he might not at his first entrance come short of the expectation was had of him he behaved himselfe with all industry and valour Upon the newes of the Aragons death the Cardinall de Valette and Marquess Villa with 3000. foote and 2000. horse came to the reliefe of Cingio and set upon the Spanish quarters who valiantly defending themselves for the space of seven hours at last by reason of the narrownesse of the place wherein the French horse could not be so well exercised the Spaniards having great advantage in foot Villa was enforced to retreat with the worst Which when Monseiur de Mason Neuâe who was Governor of the Town knew despairing of reliefe and almost all his musquets being broken through continuall shooting and the ill temper of the iron not being able to defend himselfe without them and having stoutly with-stood two assaults he treated and yeilded up the place marching out with his armes baggage and one piece oâ Cannon This was cause of much content to Leganes for the Lange being better secured hereby and consequently the passage from Finalle to the State of Millan made more commodious hee considered he might the better turne his Forces else-where Chedini being left Governour here those forces marched towards Montferrat Prince Thomas and Leganes understanding that the French were marched towards Cingio the Prince came from Pavia where hee had finished his purgation and arrived at Vercelles where Leganes was and making use of the intelligence which hee held with the Governour of Chinas a place neere the Poe betweene Cressentine and Turin hee on the 26th of March came by breake of day with two thousand horse before the gates of the Towne and without effusion of blood made himselfe Master thereof For the Governour who held correspondedcy with him not endeavouring any defence after the playing of one Petar suffered the Prince his men freely to enter By this meanes the way being opened into the heart of Piemont the Cardinal was presently sent for thither by the Spaniards that by doing so they might honest their no ways gratefull intentions towards those people who seeing their Forts assigned over into the hands of their owne naturall Princes would the easilier be perswaded to side with the Spaniards though the Garrison and Governour which was put thereinto being Spanish it might indeede rather be said that the Cardinall had put himselfe into the hands of the Towne then that the Towne was put into his hands Prince Thomas seconded by some companyes of Foote sent unto him by Leganes went to âhier and Moncallier places not farre distant from Turin which presently submitted unto him and many of those inhabitants following him hee came before Aglie a Towne belonging to a Count of the same name which standing out he sacked it From thence he marched with his horse within sight of Turim hoping through intelligence which he held with some of the Towne to doe the deed but hee found hee was deceived by reason of the strict guard made by the French and the Dutchesse her people so as after having given the Governour to understand that if hee would receive him in hee should not only purchase his favour but better his own condition much and finding that neither promises nor threats would work upon his loyalty he retreated lest he might give upon the French who prepared to light upon him at unawares Passing from thence to Hivenea a City placed upon Doria Bautia he took it by storme and tooke afterwards the Towne and Castle of Bard which is the key of the valley of Osta by which he likewise reduced the City of Osta and all that valley the people comming in unto his service The French were much terrified thereat For they could not at the same time march forth against their enemies and keep an eye upon their friends fidelity The taking of this valley was thought to be of great consequence for besides the getting from thence a considerable strength of men the possession of this passe made much for the Spaniards for thereby they might the more easily passe into Burgondy Leganes who would not advance before he saw the event as well not to hazard his reputation upon an uncertainty as not to exasperate those people with his presence who as they willingly saw Prince Thomas so was the sight of the Governour of Millan most hatefull to them from whom they expected nothing else but some trick whereby to bring them to his obedience when he heard of this rose with all the forces he then had about Vercelles and speaking with Prince Thomas and his brother the Cardinall betweene Hâverea and Vercelles they joyntly agreed upon what was best to be done the present conjunctures considered Those of Piemont were of opinion they should forbeare to sit downe with their Forces before any Forts and only keep in the field and so rather invite the Inhabitants to lay down their arms then to employ them the more in their defence and to effect that by treaty which was hard to doe by arms that by no meanes Leganes who was come hither as it was said to assist the Princes should seem to do so For the people when they should see the Princes endeavoured to captivate the Subjects good will not for themselves but for the Spaniards they would rather keep firm in their loyalty to the Dutches young Duke though in doubt to be mastered by the French then side with the Princes with certainty to bee inslaved by the Spaniard Leganes who saw whether this tended or at least suspected that the Princes would only seeme to depend upon them till they might be brought to have the government of Piemont either by force or faire meanes thought it not good to condiscend to this the rather because it was not likely the Princes would bereave the Duke their Nephew and the Dutchesse their Sister in Law of what was theirs and drive out the French who were the Protectors of that State to ruine together with themselves the whole State and their faithfull Subjects and assubject themselves to the Spaniards to whose proceeding the Dukes of Savoy alwayes had an eye But the Spaniards chiefe ends being that they might get into the best Forts of Piemont particularly into such as might help them to get Montferrat which they so thirsted after he resolved in some sort to satisfie the Princes in their desires with specious words and faire promises he did all that might seeme outwardly faire but at the same time he had an eye to his chiefe aime which was to streighten Cassall by taking Trino and other neighbouring places The meeting being dissolved the Cardinall went to stay at Hiverea to keep those people in their fidelity and to raise some forces in those parts Prince Thomas came before
Candalle being not long before dead of a Feaver who commanded there in Chiefe Hee by orders from the King made Monseiur de Toures Governour thereof hee who whilst Charles Duke of Mantoa lived was Generall to his Highnesse in Mantoa By this time the actions of the Cardinall of Savoy and of his Brother were generally murmured at for that being exasperated against the State of their innocent Nephew they made it the scean of so bitter and unhappy a warre and because the Nobility and common people being divided some did secretly adhere unto the Princes and did also manifest their resolutions some kept constant to the Dutchesse thinking it absolute fellony to forsake her who was their Dukes Governesse and represented his person so all parts were full of horror and confusion some fearing to be punished by the Dutchesse and the French others being frightned at the Princes threats backt by the Spaniards And the Princes pretending to have law on their side in their laying claime to what could not be denyed them and being therein much more confirmed by a late Declaration made by the Emperor wherin he declared the late Dukes last will and Testament as null invalid and the pretences of the two just Princes they printed a Manifesto in Asti conteyning all the reasons why they were forced to endeavour by force of arms to get the Guardian-ship of the Duke their Nephew answerable to the Lawes of the State and did therein afterwards signifie how that whatsoever the Dutchesse had done as Governesse to her Sonne was invalid as in particular the League she had made with her Brother the King of France And they ordained upon paine of life and the danger of incurring high Treason that no Subject whatsoever should for the time to come take part with the Dutchesse nor obey her They likewise declared the orders of the Annuntiata and of the Crosse of Saint Maurice and Lazarus conferr'd by the Dutchesse upon divers Cavalliers to be null and of no validity unlesse they should come at the same time to have those orders confirmed by them as also that the Governours of all Towns should acknowledge them for their superiours and come and receive the confirmation of their governments from them otherwise if they should remaine in their obedience to the Dutchesse they should be understood as guilty of High Treason forfeite their Honours and their Estates The Sweeds being inhartened by the taking of Zuicka and having thereby secured the passes over the Mulda upon any occasion of retreat they came with part of their army before Freiberg that by the taking thereof they might the easilier enter into Saxony but as this was a place of great moment to the Elector of Saxony so did hee employ all his Forces to the defence thereof and some of his troopes joyning with Marcini they marched thitherward to releive it as they did For Bannier not having made any considerable Works or Trenches about it nor having men enough to fight it behoved him to retreat So to shun the necessity of giving battle having formerly stood a charge upon his reere wherein he suffered some losse and he himselfe was lightly hurt with an Harquebuse But if the Sweeds were not pleased with the businesse of Freiburg they recovered the losse they there received by their good successe at the same time before Demmin which they had besieged some moneths before For the Town being reduced to great extreamity yeilded upon parley to the Sweedes who having hereby made themselves Masters of all Pomerania wherein they had many uselesse Garrisons they drew from thence as many people as they could and marched towards Bannier who being gone from his former quarters was retreated towards Aldemberg to expect those recruits Marcini invited thereunto by his good successe and encouraged the more by this retreate pursued him with more daring then forces to Valtheim For Bannier expecting the succour which was already upon their march towards him did cunningly by his retreate entice the enemie after him that they might be so farre engaged in their pursuit as not to be able to shun battle wherein he might have his deupon them But his expected succour not appearing though he knew they made long marches he intrencht himselfe neere the River Scope which runs between Chimnits and Freyburg not farre from whence Marcini also haulted to expect the arrivall of some Troopes which were comming to his succour from Bohemia and that he might not engage himself any further for the losse of Demmin being of great consequence and all those people marching towards Bohemia he fore-saw he should incurre some mischiefe without a greater strength Letters were therefore with all diligence dispatcht away to Vienna to solicite the hasting away of men that were raised in Morania Hungary and else-where as also to desire that the Emperour would come to Prague by whose presence the people there would not be a little sollaced they being much mastered by fear confusion by reason of the Swâeds great preparations Concerning which having had many consultations the Councellors were irresolute in their resolves doubtfull in what they should pitch upon and troubled in their thoughts For this Warre not being to be maintained without money from Spaine nor yet to be mannaged handsomely without the whole Caesarian Forces both these were known to be prejudiciall For the forces of the Empire could not be divided without giving distast and prâjudice to the Spaniards nor any moneys being to be received from Spaine without imparting some Dutch aide to the King of Spaines Dominions The Dutch therefore complained of being brought to such a condition as they must refer themselves to the pleasure of the Spanish State Ministers who they affirmed had beene the cause of the loss of Brisacke not only by having deteyned Picolomeni and Lamboy in Flanders in a time when they should have made use of their succour and which they joyning with Ghets might have effected but by not consenting to send some Italian Forces into Alsatia to save that important place which was the key of the Empire and the losse whereof was so prejudiciall to all Germany being earâestly desired so to doe Some therefore exclaimed bitterly agaânst them and prest that all their Forces might be sent for from Flanders that so they might tend their owne welfare before the wel-fare of others But the Spaniards who knew how prejudiciall it would be to them to be deprived of the Dutch assistance behaved themselves dexterously with those that were of their party And they likewise knowing what loss they were likely to undergoe without the support of moneyes from Spaine the Emperours Coffers being empty no contribution being to be had from the harrassed Country nor so many armies being therein to be maintained the sequell was that the one and the other of them concealing and cloaking their distasts according to exact policy they applyed all their consultations to the common interest Many notwithstanding wondred that the Spaniards who
suspicion so as the Imperiallists and Saxons being come to the defence of their owne Frontiers the other Swedish Commanders might the more easily proceed on in Slesia and else where And because Brandeis stood a litlle higher neere the Elbe also it being a place whereby Prague might the easilyer be assayled and entrance be made into the center of the Kingdome the importancy of which place being known Offchercheim was gon thither with a good body of men who was now become one of the Duke of Saxons chiefe Commanders having left the Sweedes Bannier desirous to make himselfe Master of this place also went from Melnick with 7000. Souldiers on the side of Elbe towards Prague and sent Plato with 5000. more on the other side the River with directions that at the same time when Bannier should set upon Brandeis he should on the other side invest the Trenches made by the enemy on the other side the Bridge and which were kept by Colonell Salasar a Spaniard upon advertisment hereof Offchercheim no wayes abasht but as he was suddaine in his actions readily issuing out of the Town came to encounter with the Sweedes hoping to fight and if he should finde them too hard for him to shelter his foote by his horse and so bring them safe underneath the Walles which he intended to defend but some squadrons of Swedish horse issuing out from the rest of the body and a skirmish being began rather to discover the scituation number and position of the Imperiallists then for any thing else and this skirmish growing hotter by the comming in of another company at last Bannier gave on himselfe in the head of 2000. horse resolving to charge through the Enemies troopes whereupon Offchercheim commanded a retreate to be sounded which was done in such confusion as passing from a trot to a Gallop and from a gallop to a down right running away till they came to Brandeis they left their foote to be trampled upon by the Swedish horse Offchercheim indeavoured to remedy this accident but t' was now no more time to doe so for t is very hard to stop the Cariere of feare therefore to save himselfe he swam over the River Elbe but fared not the better for it for having escaped the Sweedes on this side he fell into the hands of the other Sweedes who were on the other side the River to set upon the bridg and was by them ta'ne prisoner as was likewise the Marquis Sforza Palavesnie five foote Captaines and other officers so as together with the battle the Towne was lost eight Standards and 3000. Souldiers great was the confusion and astonishment which was seen every where by reason of these the Sweedes prosperous proceedings the whole Imperiall Army was likely to be lost had not Count Slich and Gallasse by their wisedome prevented it for their army being much discontented for want of pay and taking now the greater liberty by reason of the Sweedes approach it grew so to mutiny as the souldiers were ready to throw away their Armes and to turne over to the Enemie but Slich and Gallasse finding credit for monyes wherewithall to give them two payes they thereby prevented the mischiefe which was likely to ensue and which would have redounded greatly to the prejudice of the whole affaires of the Empire Bannier knowing the Imperiallists constancy and imagining he should doe no good by going further into Bohemia as wel for wanting of victuals as for the numerous forces of the Caesarians who were much incouraged by Azfelts coming into Egra with 6000. souldiers haulted at Brandeis and began to fortifie there thinking so to amuse the Austrians on this side as that Stallans who was with some Sweedish regiments towards Landsperg might this mean while effect some-what as also Colonel Orans who being entered Slecia with 2000 horse 4000. foote did much molest that Province wherein though the Imperialists that guarded it were strong in minde and will yet were they weake in numbers and not well beloved by the inhabitants the greater part whereof were Protestants there passed therefore frequent and hot skirmishes between the Sweedes and Caesarians neere Prague and Brandeis for the horse of both sides going forth for forradge met divers times together and fought The seige of Trino being made more easie for the Spaniards by the taking of Moncalvo for this place being in the midst between Verna Vercelles and Pontestura it was hard for the French to releive it unlesse they should first master some of these other places and Leganes considering that this place was very proper to streighten Cassalle yet the more and being at this instant informed by the Sergeant Major of Trino who was fled from thence and come to serve Prince Thomas how that there was but a small quantity of victualls in the Towne and fewe souldiers for the French fearing to loose Cassall had removed much of their provision and many of their Guarrison thither being by this newes much more confirmed in his opinion he left Don Ferrante de Monte about Lantia to the end that he with the Dutch horse might guard the passes of Doira nor suffer any thing to be brought in thither and he himselfe tooke up his quarterâ round about Trino upon the hearing hereof the Marquis Villa who was ordered to releive Santia which being on all sides invironed by the Spaniards was reduced to some scarcity of victuals made suddainly thetherward with a 1000. horse and as many Musquetiers taken up behind the horse men intending to effect his desire and having conveyed some foote without any withstanding into Lantia he indeavoured to put 700. foote and two companyes of horse into Trino But Don Ferrante finding his drift laid an Ambush for him and crost his designe For Villa being aware of the Spaniards vigilancy he forbare coming on and returned towards his former quarters at which the others grounding good hopes they forthwith made works dug Trenches raised 18. Cannon of Battery and began to play fiercely upon those Fortifications Count Montecelli a Subject of Piemont and Colonell Merolles a French-man who commanded within the Fort though they had not much above 1000. Foote too small a number to defend a place of so great circuite no wayes frightned at the Spaniards threats as in particular Montecelli was not at Prince Thomas his protestations who sent him word that in case he would not surrender the Fort his head should pay for it as guilty of High Treason to which he replyed that it would be treason in him to surrender up a Fort of the Duke of Savoyes into any other hands then such as should be by the Duke appointed they made a gallant Sally and put many Spaniards to the sword But being afterwards drawne neere unto on all sides and it behoving them to employ their men in the defence of their walls and not in Sallies wherein the most couragious are alwayes lost a great prejudice to a strong hold which hath but a weake
fish for respect and veneration not for obsequy and love for they who are tedious in lending an âare and proud in their replyes destroy and doe not strengthâen their command as on the contrary good words never hurt the mouth nor eâcoriate the Tongue He therefore banisht Ceremonyes hated flatterers dispised proud men and cared not for outsides The purity of curtesy perspecuity of thoughts and sincerity of heart lodged under the freedome of familiarity He had an esteem of every one and honoured the privatest souldier as much as he did the chiefest officer saying there was nothing whereby to awaken a mans spirit but honour and hopes to come thereby for he that sees himselfe honoured ought to doe honourably that his actions may correspond with his honor nor was there any more prejudiciall maxime then in shewing greatnesse to be scornefull in behaviour since thereby the actions and hardnesse of the couragious are imbassed and suffocated when there was a negotiation of extraordinary suffering he would never fare better then did his souldiers In so much as if necessity inforced them to sleep covered over with Snowe He though he had better conveniences would doe the like terming them alwayes his bretheren and companions There is no excuse for weakenesse when the head gives example to them that follow This is the Trumpet which awakens the soule of the Souldier strengthens decaying forces and comforts the disposition of the will He was so desirous to purchase a good name by his worth and vertue and to prosper in his imployments as he never ceased thinking with what force to overcome with what plots to have the better of and with what bravery to astonish his Enemyes and purchase his desires He exercised himselfe onely in the knowledge of scituations in reveiwing sconces in observing what his Army wanted in indeavouring their satisfaction in discerning his officers opinions and in runing sometimes to one place sometimes to another without any respect to his paines or labour and the spare houres he had from such exercises he spent them all in advising what was best to be done in speculation how he might beate his enemies and in thinking how he might comfort his Militia He shewed himselfe active upon all expediences ready upon any agreement in any resolution impatient couragious in any action He studied chiefely how to imitate the actions of the best Commanders and in particular those of his adored King of Swethland All selfe-interest all idle desires all weake fancies were farre from his inclination from his generosity he spake many languages well he would patiently heare what every one would say and was satisfied with good will where the power was wanting He was never angry upon any bad information he never beleived all that was told him he never blamed any one till he had well weighed the truth He delighted not to punish he loved to pardon nor did he ever more willingly pardon then when the offence was greatest to this purpose he would say that they who can commit great faults can also doe acts greatly meritorious by one of which a Prince receives more good then by punishing many errours wherein the state is not concerned When he could not give satisfaction by deeds his words were sufficient He hath by his speech only so satisfied and contented many that have mutined for want of pay as the greatest threateners have oft times laid downe their pretences at his feete In breife Duke Weymar was loved effectually reverenced out of love admired out of reverence celebrated out of admiration and adored for being famous in all his qualities nothing of amisse was known in him but his too eager forwardnesse by which being oft times heated he would loose all his patience turning daring into audacity and that into rashnesse He dyed when he was not yet full six and thirty yeares old and just in a time when fortune turning her face upon him he had fastened her by the haire to his sword He left the government of the Army and of Brisack to Count Nassaw Colonell Erlach Roso and Ohem his deserts to the Crowne of France and Swethland The Sweedes kept all this while at Brandeis and the Imperiallists about Prague the one watching over the other and Bannier did this to the end that whilest the Imperiall Armie was busied here his other chief Captains might have opportunity to proceed on else-where as more particularly Colonell Orans in Slesia who being recruited by some accesse of men from Pomerania was likely to doe some good in that Province For having routed Colonell de Vich and taken Count Pompey prisoner in Sagan who was come thither after Viches defeate and after he had behaved himselfe gallantly in divers encounters with the Sweedes though farre inferiour to them in number it seemed that the loss of these two prime Commanders who till then had honourably defended that Province threatned no small ruine to that side The other Sweedes having likewise taken the Citie of Perna did at the same time oppugne the Castle which being valiantly defended by the Saxons their fortune seemed to be at a stand and that they should penetrate no further into the State of that Elector for the Saxons setting at unawares upon them in Perna they did not only relieve the Castle but forced them to forsake the Citie and by flight to recover Laitmeritz Prince Thomas being speedily advertised of the French-mens departure from Turin and of their assailing Cuneo and being invited by those that sided with him to undertake the taking of Turin he advised with Leganes of what was best to be done and the resolution was to endeavour it Parting therefore from Asti they marched joyntly towards Moncallier and the Prince being come thither with 2000. horse 1000. Foote scaling ladders and Petars he on the 26. of Iuly at sixe of the clocke at night came before the walls and by intelligence which it was thought he held with Don Maurice of Savoy and with the Colonell of the Dutchess her guard being come up to the greene Bastion behinde the Dukes Palace his Souldiers without any gain-saying got upon the Rampeire and applying a Petarre to the Castle gate on the other side he luckily obtained his end For the Palace being unprovided of Souldiers those few French who ran to keepe backe the men that entred were forced themselves to give backe at the newes hereof the Dutches getting into her Coach retired suddenly to the Cittadell accompanied by Colonell d' Aglie by the Presidents Benci Cauda Lauder by Monsieur Manta Count Valdsperga the Marquess Lolias and other chief Officers of the Court with Ladies and the same Don Maurice who upon some pretence not entering into the Cittadell returned to the Citie and followed the Prince his party The newes of this accident as it was of great importance and had mighty consequences depending upon it so were not the French Captaines a little troubled at it who when they heard of it as they were