were to come and hinder their passage and when they heard that the powerful Enemy had deluded their Forces by taking another way and that they were already got out of the hardest and most difficult passages they admired the worth and Fortune of the French and chiefly the constancy of the Kings resolution to which it seemed even nature her self had yielded obedience and then they began to abate much of their former forwardness and to despair of Victory So laying aside all thoughts of joyning Battle without the advantage of place they retreated to Novara which made the French hope they might soon end the War and get the State of Millan without the loss of blood They were well acquainted with the nature and customes of the Switzers how that they were fickle seditious easie to fall at oddes desirous of Novelties but chiefly greedy of money they therefore began quickly to bethink themselves to overcome them with this engine of gifts and fair promises Many of them being hereby tempted laid aside their first desire of glory in War and preferring the certain reward which by agreement was promised them before the uncertain hopes of Arms minded presently to return home they with much arrogancy demanded pay left their Colours refused to obey Sedunense and the rest of their Commanders and all things went tumultuously on They gave these reasons chiefly for this their so great change that things had succeeded prosperously nay with great glory to the French at their first entrance into Italy and on the contrary whatsoever the Switzers had attempted had proved vain and ignominious that therefore having lost all hopes of Victory and more certain gain being offer'd them it was in vain to spin out the War any longer The Duke of Burbone who commanded the first Squadrons of the French Army past first on the left hand not far from Ville Francha where Prospero Colonna by chance was who hearing of the arrival of the French came thither to muster the Switzers Army which till then was divided in several parts to the end that being all in one body they might oppose the Enemy in their passage into Lombardy and fight them whilst they were tyred and weary with their journey But the French prevented Prospero in his designs for Palissa and Obegny went with a good number of Foot towards the Town where Colonna with his men thought himself to be safe and having sent some few Souldiers before clad like Pedlers who made as if they would lodge in the Town the Guards at the Gates who suspected no such thing were by them slain and the Gates being possess'd the French Commanders and those that followed them entred and took Colonna Prisoner together with all his Horse At which all the rest being discouraged as well for the loss of so gallant a Commander as for shame of the thing fell into such disorder as the Collegues Forces were of several opinions and divided in all things The Vice-roy who had stay'd long in the Territories of Verona and taken up his Quarters about the Banks of Poe durst not advance any farther and Lorenzo di Medici stay'd to little purpose with the Popes men at Parma not undertaking any thing So as no succour coming to the Switzers Sforza's difficulties grew daily greater and his hopes of defending his State which was set upon at one and the same time in several parts grew less for King Francis thinking it made much for the Victory to keep the Enemies Forces divided in several parts whilst the affairs of Italy were in great commotion by reason of the unexpected arrival of his Army had sent Emat de Pria with a good Band of choise Fooâ— and with 400 Horse to Genua to find out Ottaviano Fregoso This man had then the Principality of that City and had begun long before to adhere unto the French Party and having gathered together 4000 Foot and received the French Forces he joyn'd with them and at unawares fell upon Lombardy beyond the Poe and laid all that Country waste Moreover the King did much sollicite the Venetians who were ready enough of themselves to move speedily with their Forces So as Renzo da Ceri being return'd as hath been said to Crema the Senate commanded him to enter in hostile manner into the State of Millan and to endeavour the recovery of some of those Towns as occasion should serve in the name of the King of France And though the Truce was not yet ended which was formerly made between the Cities of Crema and Millan it was thought that no private agreement could hinder this order because the men that were drawn out then against the Enemy were not taken out of the Garrison of Crema but were newly come to the Army from Padua and moreover they fought not at the entreaties of the Venetians but for the King of France his service The Venetians had likewise ordered their Captain General that as soon as he should know the Spanish Army was gone from the Territories of Verona he should go with all his men into Lombardy and take with him those others that were sent to Crema that so he might fall upon greater undertakings He therefore understanding that the Enemy were gone went from Polisine di Rovegio where he had staid awhile and past over the River Adice with his Camp at Abbadia and came neer Cremona exciting all the people as he past by to Rebellion The French Army was in another part which proceeded forcibly and made great progress against the State so as Sforza's Dominion being set upon on so many sides was shortly to fall the King of France being already with all his men within his Confines and finding that the Treaty handled by the Duke of Savoy was spun out at length and proved vain he prepared to lay Siege to Millan The disagreement was occasioned by the coming of many new companies of Switzers to the Camp who unacquainted with the troubles of War were more hot in the prosecution thereof said that Sforza's reputation which they had undertaken to defend was to be maintain'd by the Sword not by Treaty so as the face of War was various and doubtful both Peace and War being at the same time in discourse with the Switzers and there being many Armies in the same State some to oppugne it some to defend it but all of them so divided as the Forces of neither party could be increased by the assistance of their companions none of them having the means allowed them of meeting together but were by the nearness of the Enemy forced to take uncertain and dubious counsels wherefore the King did desire the more to have Alviano's Forces joyn with his To which purpose he was gone to the Town of Marignano where he took up his Quarters From hence he write to the Venetian Senate acquainting them with his safe arrival in Italy and with his prosperous successes and moreover made his hopes and his counsels known to them Thus the
Prince of Orange to enter into the State of Milan thorow the Duke of Savoy's country with a good number of Lands knights but on the other side the Confederates being wholly bent to keep off all relief made several provisions many ships were preparing in Britany and at Marcelles by the King of France and some Ships that were taken as it was said about Genoua were armed at the common expence intending to put to Sea with a great Fleet and to hinder the passage of the Spanish Fleet Divers endeavours were had likewise with the Duke of Savoy that he might not permit the Imperialists to pass thorow his State But the greatest and most apprehended dangers came from Germany for it was said that Georgio Sfonspera an old Commander and one very affectionate to the House of Austria was raising great store of foot in Styria and allured men by the hopes of prey and that the Dutch Foot which were in the Garrison of Cremona being come to him he had got together above ten thousand Dutch Foot about Bolzano Divers things were therefore put in practice at the same time to hinder the passage of these men The practice formerly held with the Governour of the Castle of Mus was agreed upon not only the disbursement of five thousand Ducats the one half whereof was to be paid him by the Pope the other half by the Senate for the freeing of the Venetian Embassadors who were detained by him whilst they were passing into France but also that he himself should come in person with four hundred Foot to the service of the League wherewith he was to Guard the Lake of Como The Venetians sent likewise Secretary Nicolo Sangontino upon the same occasion to the Marquis of Mantua to desire him that though these men should be advanced he should not suffer them to enter into his State and because Artillery and Munition were preparing in Trent which made it be feared that Georgio Sfonspera would fall with his numerous men into the Territories of Verona the Senate raised therefore four thousand Foot more and made some Troops of Curassiers and of light Horse come from the camp they made Agostino da Mula Commissary General on this side Menzo and disposed of all things in order to fight and beat back the Enemy But the Dutch Foot came by the Valley of Lagni from whence they past quickly after to Poldrone which when our Commanders knew who were in the parts about Verona Camillo Orsino went immediately with the light Horse and some of the readiest Foot companies to Salo leaving the rest of the Army behind with orders that passing over the Lake of Garda they should come into the same place which not being to be done for it fortun'd that that Lake proved then as it somtimes is unnavigable Orsino could not march till it was too late to encounter the Enemy who were already well advanced Yet having possess'd himself of the passage della Corona a strait place and naturally strong he forc'd the Dutch who had already taken that way to go by the tops of the Mountains so as by very craggy and difficult ways they came to Gardo and from thence to Castilione and soon after they entred into the Marquis of Mantua's Territories thereby cozening the Commanders of the League who thought that the Dutch would have made towards Milan thorow the Territories of Bergamo but passing over the River Olio at Rivalta and afterwards over the Menzo it was thought that they would take their way either towards Piacenza or Pavia Wherein to hinder them the Commanders of the League thought it fit to divide the Camp into two parts with the one whereof the Marquis of Saluzzo taking with him the Switzer and Grison Foot to the number of ten thousand went to beyond the River Ada and quartered at Vauri near the strongly seated Cassano and the Duke of Urbin who conducted the rest of the Army consisting of as many Foot went to Sansino But George Fonspra being already got beyond them with his Foot and the Duke not able for wanâ— of victuals to follow him presently with his whole Army he made his light Horse and some Foot companies follow them in the Reer by whom the Enemy were much annoy'd and chiefly by Giovan di Medici who although the rest of the Popes Captains were gone stay'd in the Camp and took pay of the King of France but yet they advanced still and pass'd over the Po and the Duke of Urbin taking the same way with his Army came to Borgo forte from whence the Dutch were gone but a little before and caused a Bridg to be made to the end that if occasion should be he might pass his men over But Fonspere not knowing what way to go when he was got over the Po was cause of much suspention with the Colleagues and the Pope was chiefly much affraid beleiving that the Enemy would bend towards Bologna and peradventure pass into Tuscanie wherefore he pressed the Venetians very much to pass their men as soon as might be over the Po for the better safety of the Churches and the Florentines State but their own Common-wealth was not free from the like danger wherefore the Senate to satisfie the Pope as far as stood with their owne safety ordered Luigi Pisari who was in the Camp with the Marquis of Saluzzo that if any number of Foot should be demanded of him to encrease the Garrisons of the Towns belonging to the Church he should readily releive them Which Guiccherâ—ine demanding Babone di Naldo was sent thither with 1000 Foot They writ likewise to their Captain-General that if the danger of the confederates should encrease and theirs should lessen he should pass over the Po either with the whole Army or but with part of it according as occasion should require and as he should think best Which being by several accidents delayed this advice was altered and it was thought more expedient for the common service that for the present the Marquis of Saluzzo should pass over only with his men taking along with him 300 of the Venetian light Horse and some pieces of Artillery to be taken from their Camp The Popes danger and his fear also did much increase by the Enemies approaching near Florence for the Dutch having passed the River Nura and then that of Trebbia not being any ways disturbed by our men stay'd at Firenzvole where they expected to meet with the men of Milan But the Imperial Commanders finding it hard to make the rest march the Italian Foot and some light Horse went only thither at that time But the Senate being desirous to give the Pope all satisfaction sent new Orders to their Commissary to draw out some more men from their Army and to send them over the Po that they might joyn with those that were formerly passed over with the Marquis of Saluzzo Therefore Commissary Vetury went thither presently with 5000 Foot and some Troops of light Horse the
the Army according to the custome of the Nation would be lazie and idle so as the Venetians were not necessitated to go out of their own Confines Yet the King of France seemed ill satisfied with the Venetians not that he knew he had any just occasion to be so because they had not exceeded the bounds of the Confederacy but because he hoped by these complaints to make them be more reserved in observing those things which they were engaged to do to Cesar and that they might abstain from entring into any new and straiter capitulation with him he therefore took occasion to complain of all things Cesare Fregoso having the command of a Troop of Light Horse wherewith he was then in Verona went from thence without leave to Genua that he might adhere unto the King's party wherefore he lost not only his pay and command but was banished out of all the Commonwealths Dominions The King complained bitterly of this and of other such things because the Venetians went about as he said to hinder his proceedings And on the other side Cesar's Agents seeming to resent that some Foot were dismissed who were taken into pay more then needed interpreted this as done to increase the Enemies Army which was gathering together in Mirandola Thus jealous were these Princes the one of the other in their having the Commonwealth for their Friend and Confederate The Emperour being parted from Provence came to Genua intending to pass as he did afterwards into Spain having left the Marquis of Guasto in Italy with twenty thousand Dutch Spanish and Italian Foot in the place of Antonio da Leva who was now dead Other Embassadours from the Common-wealth came to meet him at Genua as Nicolo Tiepoli Mark Antonio Veniero Mark Antonio Cornaro and Antonio Capello and he at the same time sent Don Pietro Gonzales di Mendoza to Venice to give an account of the reasons of his return and of the desire he had of Peace Touching which relating particularly the things which he Treated of with the King of France which Treatâ—es were afterwards renewed he said he had given the King three moneths space to resolve whether or no he would accept of the Dukedom of Milan for Monsieur d'Angulesme who by this Agreement was to marry the Widdow Dowager of Duke Sforza But that if the King should not resolve within that time he intended to give that State either to Don Luigi Infante of Portugal or else to Emanuel Son to the Duke of Savoy upon which he desired the Venetians opinion But he added that for the establishment of these things it would be requisite to make a new confederacy amongst the Italian Princes without the which he saw not how he of himself alone could undergo so great a burthen therefore if they should not condiscend to this they could not blame him if failing of this assistance he should be forced to betake himself to other Ayds which would be little to their satisfaction But the Senate being constant to their first resolution of not declaring their minds concerning the Dukedom of Milan unless they might be first assured of Cesar's pleasure nor to put themselves into new and greater Obligations more then those of the confederacy of Bullognia which had been oftentimes renewed answered As touching the new Duke of Milan That Cesar should first nominate one and that thereupon the Senate might the better consider both their own and the common Interest and put on the better resolution and as for the New League they alledged the same reasons which they had formerly done that it was not necessary and the same respects concerning the Turks which were now strengthned by the fame of the preparations of the Turkish Fleet for the next year The Venetians acquainted the Pope with these Treaties and consultations wherein they still attested their ancient desire of the peace and safety of Italy for which they desired the Pope to be fervent in interposing his authority for he having reassumed the thought of the business of Camerino seemed to appear somwhat cooler in this other important business insomuch as Ascanio Colonna being leâ—t at Rome after the Emperors departure from thence with a particular charge of having a care of such things as might concern the quiet of Italy This Treaty was not pursued so as the weight of the business and the present condition of times seemed to require the Pope pitching only on this that amongst these Princes he would stand neutral But at last being warn'd both by the Venetians solicitations by the still encreasing dangers of the Turkish Fleet and by his being bound to celebrate the Council which was declared to be in Vicenza instead of Mantua which was first chosen to that purpose and whereunto the Venetians readily yeilded he resolved to send express Legates to each of these Princes to treat of the universal Peace amongst Christian Princes of the League against the Turks and of the celebration of the Councel Agostine Trivultio was sent to the King of France and Cardinal Caraâ—ciolo to Cesar But these Embassies produced no better effects then many others had done for none of all this could be effected by reason of divers difficulties which arose The End of the Seventh Book THE HISTORY OF VENICE Written by PAULO PARUTA BOOK VIII THE CONTENTS THe King of France indeavours to part the Venetians from the Emperour and to incite the Turks against him Losses received in the Common-wealth by the subornation of Solimans Officers Severall discourses touching the Turkish preparations the Venetians prepare to resist Soliman so does the Emperour Soliman his Army and Fleeâ—â— the Venetians Fleet and several difficulties touching the Government thereof A speech made by Mark Antonio Cornaro perswading not to desert the Emperour Leonardo Emoe his speech to the contrary Soliman bears respect at Sea to the Venetians Territories Accidents which alter him therein and make him declare open war against them The Imperiall and the Venetian Fleet and the successe of each of them How the Senate resents the accident fallen out with the Turks and their resolution thereupon Soliman makes open war against the Venetians and what is thereby done Corfu described The Senates actions in resisâ—â—nce of the Turks against whom the Christians publish a League Orders given to the Generall The Spaniards fail therein the Turks assault Corfu but at ten dayes end quit it They besiege Naples and Malvesia but in vain Both these places are described Barbarossa over-runs the Archipelagus and takes many Islands therein The Venetians besiege Scardona which yeelds unto them Severall thoughts of Princes the yeâ—â— 1â—37 those of Soliman of the Emperour King of France Pope and Venetians Germany and the condition thereof The Senate consult touching the making or not making League Caesar's Embassadour solicits the Common-wealth to declare enmity to the Turks but in vain THe fire of War being rekindled hotter than before between the Emperour and the King of France grew to such a hight as
the Duke of Orleans the Kings Son with a Million of Gold for her portion which was to be given to the Emperour in recompence for the State of Millan whereinto the Duke of Orleans was to be invested but many difficulties being found herein the one not being willing to trust the other and the Bride not being of fitting years for marriage the businesse was broken off the convention dissolved to the great displeasure of the Venetians in particular who by reason of this disagreement were likely to bear a greater burthen in this war with the Turks as by many signs did already appear For the Marquiss of Guasto who had formerly been sent for to the Court by the Emperour to make use of his advice and actions touching the enterprise in the Levant was by new orders appointed to stay in Italy and to be diligent in increasing the Garrisons in the State of Millan And Cesar when the hopes of this Agreement failed had oft-times said that his forces being elsewhere diverted by the King of France he could not for the present do any thing for the service of Christendom but stand upon his defence and keep his Dominions from being prejudiced by the Turkish Fleets these respects had made the Venetians more diligent in indeavouring the conclusion of the League believing that the King of France whilst he should see this union suspended whereby the heavier weight would lie upon Cesar being onely of himselfe to resist the Turkish forces would be the hardlier brought to a reconcilement with Cesar building his hope of the recovery of the State of Millan upon the weaknesse of the Emperours forces the Pope was likewise much troubled hereat to whom as being the chiefe head of Christendom the care of making peace between Christian Princes and of opposing the eminent danger of the Turks did principally belong Therefore seeing all his indeavours by Letters and Embassies proved vain he bethought himselfe of bringing these two Princes to speak together face to face in his presence hoping that by his authority intreaties and reasons he might bring them to an Agreement Wherefore though he was very aged yet not being willing to spare any painse after he had thus exhorted and invited these two Princes he offered to give them a meeting himselfe in person at Neice as an opportune place where they might all meet together This meeting proved in one respect pleasing to the Venetians for if the peace should be effected the hopes and forces of the League would be greatly increased which would be but weak and lame without it but in another respect they were troubled at it by reason of the losse of time which it would occasion in making provision for the War and in the uniting of the Fleets For the Emperour being to come by Gallies from Barcellona to Niece Doria must be unseasonably imploy'd in this voyage when he should have put his Fleet in order and have advanced against the Enemy who were already put forth very strong to Sea This their fear was the greater because it was not counterpoysed by equall hopes of advantage since it appeared almost impossible that these two Princes should be reconciled as it was thought by those who vvere best vers'd in such affaires and who could penetrate the furthest into the secret designes of Princes For vvhat hopes vvere there of making true friendship between Cesar and the King of France their natures vvere beyond measure contrary they differ'd in fashions ends and thoughts grievous injuries had past between them on both sides which they kept in memory with desire of revenge On the Kings behalf his Imprisonment and his severe usuage therein his being inforc'd to purchase his liberty by assenting to unjust conditions and by giving his Sons in hostage for the performance of his word and the War lately made by the Emperour in the bowels of his own Country The Emperour held himselfe as much offended by the King not onely for the falsifying of his word and breach of the Articles at Madrid but for his having made the Turks make war against him whereby to keep him and his Dominions perpetually molested What reason was there then to believe that those who bore such bitter hatred to each other were to yeeld to an Agreement whereby the ones power would be greatly augmented to the as great inconveniency of the other to yeeld up the State of Millan to the King of France to boot with the opening the way thereby unto him how to molest the Kingdom of Naples and of disputing Cesars power in Italy bore with it greater consequences For by giving the State of Millan to the Duke of Orleans France would become the more formidable since all the States would be united in the Crown whereinto not onely Britany would fall which belonged to the Kings second Son as in right of his Mothers Dowry but the Dukedom of Orleans and of Angoulesme On the other side the King knew that the releasing of the Cities and Forts which he had taken in Savoy would secure Cesars affairs in Italy and confirm him in the possession of the State of Millan it was therefore thought that nothing had made Cesar and the King of France yeeld to the Pope's proposall but a desire of justifying themselves to the World and to shew that they would not be back-wards in making peace knowing that the maintaining so long and bitter discord at this time would denote their immoderate Ambition Moreover they were thereunto invited by a certain jealousie they had of the Popes favour which made them indeavour to perswade him that they valued all his advices for the one fearing to be exceeded by the other they would not suffer that either of them should become greater by the forces and authority of Apostolick Sea especially in Italy Some did also add that the Pope himselfe did not aim so much at the generall good by this meeting as at his particular conveniency hoping that by his presence and by the concurrency of these Princes he might get far into favour with them and obtain something of much moment from them which might establish the greatnesse of his House which was now discovered to be his chiefest aim as was afterwards more clearly seen at this meeting wherein the marriage between the Lady Margaret Cesars naturall Daughter who had been wife to Alexander Duke of Medecis with Octavio Fernese the Popes Nephew was concluded who was likewise invested in the State of Novara Though the Venetians began quickly to suspect these things yet did not the Senate forbear to do what occasion required but to shew all due respect to these Princes and chiefly to the Pope and not to leave any thing undone whereby they might be ayding and forward to the making of peace as they had alwaies been they chose two Embassadours Nicolo â—iepolo and Mark Antonio Cornaro to assist at that meeting and to declare the Senates desire of friendship between Christian Princes and their readinesse to
Emperour being highly exhausted of mony by so continuall Wars and the danger of his affairs in Italy encreasing by reason of the numbers of men which were raised in the King's name about Mirandola being also doubtfull of the issue of War by reason of the many Swissers that were taken into pay by the King and which were still added unto his Army but chiefly being desirous to see the Duke of Savoy re-possessed of his State which he had lost in his service whereof he had but little hopes save by way of agreement by reason of the conveniency the French had to succour and to put garrisons into the places which they had taken for the affection which those people bare unto the French it became him to think of peace and to desire it And both these Princes being thus well disposed each of them stood expecting that the motion should be made to him Wherefore the Queen of France who was sister to the Emperour sent her Confessor Father Gabriel Gusman a Spaniard to the Imperiall Camp to the end that he might discourse thereof with the chief Officers and might introduce the Treaty knowing that she therein did what was acceptable both to her husband and to her brother and that Princes in the greatest managements of State do often lend an ear to people of mean condition especially to those of the Clergy to shew that nothing but Religion induceth them to give ear thereunto The agreement begun by Gusman who passed often between the two Camps was quickly brought to a good end so as the Cardinall Legats came not time enough to have a hand in it For the Admirall of France and Secretary Baiardo meeting with Monsieur Granville and Don Ferrante Gonsaga they in the behalf of their Princes agreed upon these conditions That all Towns which were taken after the Truce at Neece should be by both restored and that any differences that might arise therein should be decided by Commissioners who were to meet for that purpose at Cambrei That the King of France should assist Cesar with some Foot and Dragoons together with Germany in case of any war made with the Turks That the Duke of Savoy should be restored to all his State taken from him by the French in the war except some Towns to which the Crown of France laid claim And that for establishment of this agreement the marriage should be made between the Duke of Orleance second son to the King of France with the Emperours daughter or with one of his nieces daughters to Ferdinando the choice being to depend upon Cesar who had four months given him to resolve therein but with different portions for he was to give Flanders and all the Low Countries with his daughter and with his niece the State of Millan with other conditions concerning it which were to be regulated according to divers accidents which might fall out That the Venetians should be nominated in this peace as friends both to the King and Emperour who had proceeded so equally as both these Princes were either content or not dis-satisfied But it fared not thâ—â— with the Pope of whom the French complained for that being very fervent for them he had not notwithstanding done any thing for them in their so great need And the Imperialists plainly accusing the Pope's intentions and designes said That his not declaring himself openly for the King of France was not for any want of will noâ— out of any respect of not offending Cesar but for fear of his forces Insomuch as the Pope's Legats could not without much difficulty obtain that the Pope should be admitted into this agreement which was at last granted rather out of decency then out of any sincere affection it not being fitting that the Pope who is the head of Christians should be left out in that Peace which was said to be made for the common good of Christendome This Peace insuing in a time and in a manner such as was least expected by those who were best experienced in the management of affairs though it was much desired by all afforded occasion of many severall discourses the secrets of these Princes not being easily to be seen into nor could it be prognosticated of what continuance it would be every one spoke diversly of it according to their passions or interests Nay those that had the same relations did not agree in their judgments Some Venetians thought that this peace would continue long between these Princes for the King of France getting thereby the State of Millan or in lieu thereof the States of Flanders a rich Country and lying very conveniently for the Crown of France might now appease his thoughts And the Emperour having put the Duke of Savoy into his State married his daughter nobly and into his own blood and being now weary of war might peacefully enjoy the glory he had won and his exalted fortune It was likewise thought that this Peace as very durable would be acceptable and advantageous to the Common-wealth for thereby the power of Christian Princes would be preserved and they might the better resist Soliman's so vast Forces which were bent upon the ruine of Christendome And that it made likewise much for her service that the Forces and greatnesse of these two Princes should be ballanced as equally as might be which proportion was likely to be destroyed or weakened if the war should have continued by which the King of France was forced to fight within the bowells of his own Kingdom in defence of his own affairs against powerful Armies And moreover the parting of the Dukedom of Millan or Flanders from the so many States which were fallen to the Crown of Spain could not but be commodious for other Princes who were to be jealous of such greatnesse Others notwithstanding were of another opinion thinking that this agreement would be to no purpose for that Cesar who would not see France oppress'd by the King of England which had made him make this agreement would not likewise suffer it to encrease and flourish by peace and by the acquisition of so noble Dominions And that King Francis who was naturally very unquiet nor content with what he might have got by agreement but aspiring still after new things might very likely give occasion of re-assuming Arms. But say that this were to prove a good and true union the Common-wealth had reason to suspect it since so many men as were in these Princes Dominions could not keep long idle that there was no thought of seeing them doe any thing against the Turks since there was speech already that they were to send Ambassadours joyntly to Soliman to treat of Peace or of a long Truce That it was likewise to bâ— considered the Common-wealth would be of lesse esteem wheâ— neither the King of France nor Emperour should need her friendship that the jealousie which these two Princes had for a long time to see this Common-wealth joyn with either of their Rivalls or
blame the counsels That for all this bad fortune the Senate would not go less in their former intentions of providing for the War but would take care that the Army should be abundantly furnish'd with all things which belong'd to the care of a General as if he himself were present at their Counsels And that the General should want nothing whereby to shew his Worth These and the like means were often used not only to Trivulcio but to the King of France yet were they not able to make him alter his resolution He therefore departed from Millan and the care of the Venetian Army and the administration of the War was committed to Theadore Trivulcio This man was formerly entertain'd by the Venetians and had the same place and imployment as Renzo da Ceri had before but was not able to come unto the camp till now whither as soon as he was come he had the same authority given him as Giacopo Trivulcio had before though not the name nor degree of Captain General This mean while King Francis having provided all things for his departure and sent some of his men already before he left the Duke of Burbone in charge with the Government of the affairs of Italy wherein he endued him with great authority and returned into France But being resolved before he went to send more aid to the Venetian Army he recommended the men to the care of Monsieur Odetto de Fois named Monsieur di Lautrech one famous in War and desirous of Glory who for his worth and courage was thought fit to exercise the place of any Commander His commission from the King was to go with those men to the taking in of Brescia and to do all things for the good and service of the Venetians with the same care and diligence as if the City were to be recovered for him and to be annex'd to the Crown of France And certainly all the Kings Proceedings were such as plainly shew'd he bore a great good will to the Common-wealth for he had often constantly affirm'd that if the occasion of War should require it he would be ready to return again into Italy with no less Forces then he had done now to the end that the Common-wealth might be restored to her former Power and Dignity Wherefore the Venetians to purchase more grace and favour with the King thought fit to send an Embassadour who might continually reside with Monsieur di Bourbone who as it hath been said was left in Italy in the supremest place of Dignity since it was likely they might have many occasions to treat with him in To which imployment they chose Andrea Trevisano who as soon as he came to Millan Andrea Gritti who had tarried in that City after the Kings departure to procure the coming of the French to our Army returned to the camp by order from the Senate where he was made Commissary in the place of Dominico Contarini who falling sick had got leave of the Senate to be gone Almost about the same time came Monsieur di Lautrech to the Army and now the French aid being come it was thought it was no more to be doubted but that Brescia not being able any longer to ressist so great Forces would at last fall into the power of the Common-wealth The Pope thinking that such success would make much against his designs sought by all means to hinder it He propounded a Truce and howsoever desired that the business might be spun out at length hoping that if the Siege of Brescia should prove long and difficult some occasion might arise which might make the Venetians listen the sooner to agreement though upon bad conditions And because he himself was able to do but little in this business no great belief being given to his words nor exhortations he thought to interpose the King of Polonia's authority perswading his Embassadour who was yet at Venice to re-assume the business of Peace by making new Proposals As if the Venetians would forego the friendship of the French and side with Cesar the noble Cities of Cremona and Lodi might be added unto their State for the King of France might be easily driven out by the joynt Forces of the Emperour the Pope and the Common-wealth and then those Cities might be obtain'd from Cesar by the King of Polands Intercession and Authority so as being for the future sever'd from the State of Millan they might be added to the Dominion of Venice which would make way by occasion of handling other particulars for the re-gaining all the other things which were now held by Cesar. Upon the same design the Pope to the end that by absence of the Commander the business of Brescia might be drawn out more at length exhorted King Francis to send Monsieur di Lautrech to Rome seeming very desirous to treat with that grave and wise man in many things concerning the business of Naples which he knew the King did very much desire and therefore he thought this proposition would be very acceptable to him And though the Pope had contrary thoughts in his head yet he seemed very desirous that the beginning of that War might not be deferr'd for that Ferdinando King of Spain after long sickness was dead and the power of Charles Duke of Burgony who had taken upon him the name of Prince of Casteile grew daily more formidable to all those that had any States in Italy but chiefly to him that therefore all force and industry was to be used in not suffering his power to increase too immoderately But as Leo's cunning already sufficiently known to all could not bring about his design he having lost all credit so did it afford great cause of wondet by his uncertain way of proceeding for it seemed that these courses wherewith he thought to have joyntly provided both for his own safety and the like of the Ecclesiastique State did ill become his wisdom for he endeavoured as he had done all the time of his Popedome that the Venetians who had always shew'd themselves obedient to the Apostolique See whereof there wanted not many evident examples being supprest by so many adversities should be still troubled with the labour and dangers of War so as their Forces should be kept low and the dignity and power of the Common-wealth weakened and that on the contrary he should so study to advance the Emperours greatness when he knew that nothing could be so pernicious both to himself and all Italy as to suffer the Dutch Armies to continue long in that Country giving occasion thereby to revive the ancient claim and pretences of the Emperours And say he should have forgot ancient passages whereby he might be instructed how many cruel and bitter things that Nation had plotted against the Popes of Rome how could he forget modern affairs and speeches told unto him used by Maximillian Who was wont in all his discourses to say publickly that the Churches State did belong to the Western Empire and
any thing and somtimes making new demands as That all such as had been banished from their Country by the Venetians should be thereunto restored together with some other such like things whereof no mention had been made in the articles of Truce and whereby a firm agreement might be rather kept off then made Some moneths being thus spent in vain Cesar's were sent for home by their fellow Councellors of Ispruch Yet at this very time the Embassador of Venice had great hopes given him at the Emperors Court of a good issue of this business promise being made that new Commissioners should be chosen who should be sent with better Instructions to Friuli that being near the places of most important differences they might decide them the sooner and with more ease All Charls his chiefest Ministers of State shewed that he had a great desire to live neighbourly with the Venetians and to make a firm peace with them whereby it was clearly seen that Cesar desired friendship with the Venetians and that he cunningly prolonged the accomodation of differences with them so to get them to make a straiter League with him and forgo their respects with the French whose friendship they seemed to value so highly as he had but little hopes to agree with them answerable to his need and designs unless they were moved thereunto out of some such necessity But the Venetians replied that they much desired peace and quiet that the institution of their Commonwealth had alwaies been such and that they would use the same means but that it became them in honour to keep their plighted faith wherefore they must profess clearly that they could not nor would not do any thing which might any ways cross their League with the King of France But since I shall several times have occasion to discourse of things that past between these two most famous Princes both in this and in other ages and with whom the Commonwealth had both War and Peace and several Treaties of things of very great importance it will not be far from the purpose of this our discourse to know some thing of their natures and customs for as they were both of them very desirous of Empire and Glory so they took several ways to arrive at this their end Charls was very wary quick of foresight mature at deliberation grave at business wonderful patient and much given to perseverance whereby he knew how to wait for time and opportunity and to make use of them to his best advantage But Francis was of a magnanimous spirit which made him willingly embrace any thing whereby he might purchase the applause of being generous and honour in war he desired to overcome his enemy rather by true valour then by advantages and craft His words and countenance discovered his most inward thoughts Cesar loved men that were wary and warlike his words were few his thoughts deep he was very ambitious but not very open therein striving still to cloak his aspiring after greatness under the pretence of uprightness and common Interest But Francis favour'd and embraced all such and was very liberal unto them who were rare at any profession he affected to be thought eloquent affable civil liberal and was chiefly desirous of warlike glory Neither did he conceal this his desire but discover'd his will and thoughts by his words and actions These two Princes did at the same time but by several ways endeavour friendship with the Common-wealth that they might make use of her Forces in their Affairs in Italy in which businesses this year was spent without coming to any conclusion in any one thing In the beginning of the next year which was the year 1520. the peace of Italy began not only to be disturbed but even Christendom in several parts to be molested with great mischief and dangers Which though they were fore-seen by all none did seek to prevent for Soliman finding himself very prosperous and not willing to grow effeminate through idleness nor to degenerate from the Worth of his Ancestors resolved to wage War as it was formerly suspected in Hungary hoping thereby to reap the greater glory for that the fame of that Nation was very great for War and because though that Enterprize had several times been undertaken by his Predecessors it was not as yet brought to a good end Therefore the year 1521. being begun Soliman march'd with a powerful Army from Constantinople himself in person into Hungary At which great warlike Preparations King Lodowick being much troubled not finding himself able to support so great a bulk of War and the danger growing every day more apparent he did again by new Embassies sollicite all Christian Princes to succour him in the defence of his Kingdom and therein befriend all Christendom To this purpose he sent Philip More Bishop of Agria to Venice who being brought before the Duke and his Senators spoke to this purpose My King most Illustrious Prince and you famous Senators doth so much confide in your faith humanity and power in the strait conjunction which for these many years hath been between your Common-wealth and his Crown as that for the common Interest of both States for the Iustice of his cause and out of the usual custom of your selves and your Ancestors you will favour what is just and assist him with your help who in this eminent War of the Turks would make his chief recourse to you and communicate his Affairs and Needs first to you Hoping not only to find you ready in your selves to do what you are able for the defence of his Kingdom but that by your power and intercession you will apply your selves to other Princes and facilitate their assisting of him and truly reason tells us that the first applications belong to this Common-wealth when opposition is to be made to the increasing of the Ottoman Empire for as her opportunity is great of troubling this Enemy by the power she hath at Sea so for the neighberhood of so many of her States she ought to covet the abasing of it and to be careful that together with the ruine of others her own danger do not encrease Therefore if you my Lords will be the first who shall move other Princes to take upon them the defence of the Kingdom of Hungary so as the courage of this new and fiercely minded Emperour may be allay'd who will leave nothing unattempted whereby he may hope to purchase Glory and Empire you will reap the fruit of real and true Honour of great safety and of the increasing of your State Consider Gentlemen to what an height the Ottoman Family is risen of late years And chiefly if I may be permitted to say so through the negligence of Christian Princes for meeting with no obsticle he marcheth on apace to Supream Monarchy if Constantines entreaties and protestations had been listned unto when Mahomet assaulted Constantinople assuredly the Grecian Empire would not have been destroy'd Nor would the like of the
were minded to erect a Fort between Peschiera and Lonato whereinto their Forces being put which were then eight hundred Curassiers six hundred light Horse and six thousand Foot they might hinder the enemy from advancing any further whatsoever way they should come which it was thought they might easily do for those Dutch Foot had neither Horse nor Artillery with them nor any warlike tackling whereby to force their passage This advice was at first much applauded by Lautrech who affirmed that he would come himself in person with his men and joyn with the Venetian Army confessing oft that this was the securest way to defend the State of Milan yet altering his mind not long after he desired the Venetians that leaving the thought of hindering the enemies passage which he thought to be impossible they would send their men to joyn with the French in the Territories of Cremona So the Venetians leaving the Passes Guarded the best they could by the people of the Country ordered Trivulcio to go with all his Horse and Foot towards Cremona and for that Lautrech desired that he might have some Venetian Gentleman with him of authority and experience with whom he might advise what way that War was best to be managed the Senate sent forthwith Andrea Gritti to the Camp continuing Paolo Navi there still to provide for all things necessary for the Army Ierolimo da Pesaro was moreover chosen Commissary General on Terra Ferma to whom the care and custody of the Forts was particularly commended where into were put 2000 foot newly taken into pay and some Curasiers to secure themselves upon all occasions from danger Moreover the Senate resolved at Lautrech's intreaty to take 3000 more Foot into pay and gave willingly way likewise to the contributeing of maintaining some Horse and Foot with whom the Duke of Ferrara promised to march in behalfe of the French To the end that the King and all men else might acknowledg that nothing was wanting one their side for the safeguard of the State of Milan nor to the ready and sincere maintaining of the agreement which was made between them and the French But the French were more diligent in exhorting the Venetians to make good the Articles of the confederacy then to make requisite provisions themselves wherein they proceeded but slowly which is very prejudicial to the essence of War For though Lautrech did continualy affirm that Monsieur di St Vallieâ— was to pass imediately over the Mountains with 6000 French Foot and that 10000 Switzers being already raised by the King would soon begin to march yet they were never seen to appear On the other side the Enemy being already grown very strong the Dutch Foot being joyn'd with them passed safely into the Territories of Mantua and from thence to those of Millan and knowing what advantage it was for them to make hast they went to Besiege Parma the taking whereof would be of much safety and honour unto them But Lautrech who when he first saw them begin to move had some suspition of the business and had sent his brother Monsseur di Lescu thither with a good Garrison which did not notwithstanding keep the Cesarians and Ecclesiastick Commanders from pursuing their first intention hopeing to take it since the Town was but weak of it self and their Army very strong Which they had done had not Lautrech to whom a great recruit of men was come from France resolved to march nearer up to the Enemy with his whole Army by whose comming and because the Duke of Ferrara had raised a great many Foot theatning to Assault Modena and Regio Colonna was forced as he himself said afterwards to rise from before Parma Which the Pope was wonderfully displeased at who in his joyning with Cesar did cheifly covet the getting of that Town The bad success of this first enterprize begat as it usualy happens upon such like ocasions no small jealousies between the confederates for the Pope complained of the Imperial Commanders as if cunningly prolonging the taking of Parma they had taken an occasion to rise from thence to inforce him whom they knew to be so desirous of that place to contribute readily to all the expences of the War And on the other side the Emperour finding the Pope so ill satisfied grew more confirm'd in his former suspition that he would either forsake him when he should have atchieved his end in getting by the confederacy all that belong'd unto him or else that failing that hope and being soon weary of the expence and danger of War as also being naturaly given to change in opinions he might as easily forego his Friendship as he had done the like of the King of France Therefore thinking it necessary for the well grounding of his designes to draw the Venetians into the confederacy because the Pope by reason of the Authority and Strength that they would add unto the confederacy would be more cautious in breaking it and because the Common-wealths Aids would be readier and more constant then those of the Church he resolved to send Francisco Laus to Venice to recide there as his Embassadour And by him he did again very much press the Venetians to joyn with him and the Pope Saying that this was the only way to that peace which he desired no less then they and that this was his intention might easily be proved by his ready condiscention to invest Francisco Sforza Duke of Bari in the Dukedom of Milan thereby to reduce the affairs of Italy to a peacefull condition when he might lay just claim thereunto But the Senate not altering their first determination partly because they thought Cesar would not be as good as his word partly calling to mind the last actions done by the French in service of the Common-wealth thought it stood not with their faith and honour to abandon them upon the first occasion of danger The War went therefore on and more men were daily raised as well in the French and Venetians Army as in that of the Emperours and Popes by the coming of many Switzers to both Camps for Cardinal Sedunense went into Switzerland where he took many of that Nation into pay in the Popes name who finding the opportunity of some Barks passed therein over the River Oglio though the Venetians had endeavour'd by all means possible to hinder their passage and to guard the Banks and so entred into the Territories of Brescia and not without great harm to the Country people got to the Emperours Army And the 10000 Switzers which had been so long expected came at last to Lautrech Thus both Armies being very strong so as they gave a just counterpoise one to the other they did nothing for a good while but stood doubtful till at last Colonna was the first that moved to pass over the River Ada and marched towards Milan Which when Lautrech heard of he resolved to depart immediately from the Territories of Cremona where he had tarried a good while
Italy for all his Armies unfortunate success nor any whit abated his former fervency but being the rather more incens'd for that the Imperialists not content to have defended the State of Milan had endeavoured to trouble him in his own Kingdome and to provoke the King of England against him had been very sollicitous and carefull in providing all things necessary for his own comming very speedily and very strong into Italy which he might the easier do by reason that all his men were returned safe into France The Venetians were much troubled at these mighty and important preparations of the French Not only in relation to the great expences and disturbances to which they were obliged by the League which they had made with Cesar for the defence of the State of Milan but for fear of their own affairs The King appearing to be very much offended with them not only for what they had at first done against him but for that being afterward desired to re-assume their friendship with him they would not forego Cesar and for that Martino Bouolino being lately come to Venice in the names of the Lords of the three Leagues to intreat and exhort the Senate to renew their ancient confederacy with the French the Senate persisting in their opinion and justifying their last actions by the necessity of the times and by the Popes command said they could not at the present satisfie their desires by reason of their new League which they could not be faulty to without some marks of infamy and peradventure not without some danger Therefore things continuing in their former condition and the French Army passing notwithstanding over the Mountains the Venetians made all their Souldiers which were in the several Garrisons of the State be brought to the Territories of Verona and having thereof framed the body of an Army they commanded the Duke of Urbiâ— and the Commissary Pesaro to come speedily thither and there to expect Orders from them But the Pope being more afraid and full of jealousies did continually sollicite the Venetians to keep inviolably in good intelligence with him and in reciprocal good will and to proceed always with one and the same advice and counsel since the respects were the same in them both for the defence of their own particular States and for the common Liberty of Italy He commended their keeping fast to the Imperialists and their minding the defence of the State of Milan if they really thought they could do it but that if they should see they were not able to resist the powerful Forces of France they should begin betimes to reconcile themselves with the most Christian King not tarrying to make peace upon unreasonable conditions when the King should use such insolencies towards them as do usually accompany the victories and good fortune of Princes That they must consider the power of the French was very great and apt to turn the whole State of Italy upside down Since to boot with the numerous Army which the King brought with him his Forces that had defended Marcelles now that that City was freed from danger were imbarked for Italy and bent against the Kingdom of Naples And on the contrary that all the Emperours designs upon the Kingdom of France were proved vain and no less then the rest their hopes grounded upon the Duke of Burbones rebellions That the King of England growing apprehensive of the Emperours too much greatness gave certain signs that he would not keep the capitulations made with him Wherefore if it should be thought fit for the Church and the Commonwealth to think of an accommodation with the Christian King they must not lose time which was to their manifest danger and prejudice But that they should rather send sufficient commission to their Embassadour Marco Foscari who was at Rome to intervene and listen to those Treaties which were already promised by the French Which things though they were propounded by the Pope by the way of advice yet it was evident that he was inclined to a new confederacy with the French to secure the State of the Church and State of Florence which he had the greater care of because the Duke of Albany being to pass through Tuscany to the prejudice of Cesar's affairs the Florentines were exposed to more certain and nearer danger But the Pope cloaking this particular Interest as much as he could labour'd to prove that his only aim was at universal peace and to free Italy from War for the common good of Christendom and that he labour'd to break the business to the King of France to dispose him the easilier to an agreement with Charles and Ferdinand of Austria To which purpose he said he would send as he did afterwards his Almner Mattheo Giberto to entreat the King to make peace with Cesar. But which commission even then as was afterwards known to negotiate particular conventions for himself and for the Florentines the Commonwealths interest being neither wholly left out nor wholly considered But the Senate were of opinion that no greater necessity appearing they were not to forego their friendship and confederacy with Cesar as unwilling to shew so much inconstancy as also not to make the Emperour their Enemy before they had more certainty of the King of France his good will And therefore they had resolved that their men should enter in to the Dukedom of Milan for Cesars service But the Duke of Urbin not obeying this order suddenly gave them to understand that it was very dangerous for the affairs of the Commonwealth to pass at that time so forward with the Army for by securing the State of Milan so early by their forces they gave the Enemy occasion to turn elsewhere and peradventure upon their Commonwealth that therefore they might expect till the French Army was passed over the River Sisa and then put their resolution in effect But the French without any delay came into the State of Milan before it was thought they would have done so as the whole Army drew near the City and got into the Suburbs by the Gate Ticinese before the City which was but ill provided of Rampiers and victuals could be sufficiently succour'd So as all the Imperial Commanders together with their men that were within the Town were glad to retreat suddenly the Duke of Bourbon the Viceroy and Sforza went to Soncino and the Marquis of Piscara to Lodi But their chief care was how to Garrisonnize the City of Pavia very strongly which they thought might be better defended then any of the other Cities They therefore put Antonio da Leva thereinto with three hundred Curassiers and five thousand Foot part Spanish part Dutch all of them being old Souldiers Thus did the French easily get Milan which was abandoned by the Imperialists But the King would not suffer the Souldiers to enter the Town to preserve it from sacking At the same time Iohn Stuart Duke of Albany sent by the King of France to assault the Kingdom
said King not to offend one another nor to assist or favour either others enemies whereby some hopes of Peace was commenc'd and moreover the Venetians agreed to renew their former interrupted confederacy with the King but with a particular condition of not being bound to assist him in this present business These things being privately concluded the Senate excusing themselves for not making their men advance answered the Emperour's Agents who still prest for a resolution That they could not disobey the Pope the rather for that it was hoped Peace would ensue thereupon whereof the Pope with Cesar's consent had begun to Treat they therefore would not interrupt it by fomenting the War or occasioning the prolongation thereof The agreement being thus established the King sent Monsieur di Ron Cafore to congratulate the concluded League and to testifie his continual good will towards the Commonwealth though through the malignity of times and through various accidents their friendships had been interrupted He exhorted the Senate not to trust the Imperialists and promised that he would never forego the Common-wealths friendship He afterwards desired that this League which was privately concluded should be presently published wherein he found the Venetians of the same opinion thinking it would be a means that when the Imperialists should know those Forces were now against them which they hoped would have helped them to make them quit the possession of that Dukedom which they knew they could not keep and so come to some agreement whereas on the contrary nourishing themselves with hope of being assisted by the Venetians they would continue making provision for war and growing in time stronger it would be harder to come to any agreement afterwards But the Pope advised the contrary alledging That it was fit this confederacy should be kept secret to the end of reducing the Imperialists to greater necessity and danger which they would be when the French should be past over the Po as they said they would do promising that they would pass back again whensoever the Pope should please but he was forc'd almost to discover it being to grant passage to the Duke of Albenyes men who was sent as hath been said by the King of France into the Kingdom of Naples Wherefore the Pope seeming as if the Duke had violently usurped licence to pass with his men thorow the State of the Church and Tuscany and that he was wholly minded to stand a Neuter and to endeavour a general Peace He began to proceed with protestations admonishing both the Princes to lay down Arms and to put whatsoever either of them was possessed of in the State of Milan into his hands that so they might come to make a firm Peace wherefore the Imperialists growing jealous that the Pope had agreed secretly with the King of France as indeed he had and might seek to bring over the Venetians also to the French party they offered the Senate to refer the investing of Francisco Sfâ—rza to them and the pitching upon what sum of money the Duke should pay unto the Imperialists for it which the Venetians refused to do saying That such a decision did not belong unto them but to the Pope There were many things which past at the same time between the Imperialists and the King of England to move him to make War the next year against the King of France to the which purpose the Cavalier Cassal was come to the Imperial Camp which made the Imperialists more fervent in their own defence for that they hoped the King of France being molested in his own Kingdoms might be forced to pass speedily back again over the mountains to defend his own affairs the convention made between him and the Pope and the Venetians being not yet published For the news being confirmed of great preparations made by the King of England which was thought would make the French turn their forces elsewhere the Venetians did not much minde the divulging of it But the event of the business of Lombardy and of all those councels was finally to depend upon the success of Pavia the Siege whereof continued longer then was expected whereat the Pope and the Venetians were exceedingly troubled not so much for that the length thereof did much defacilitate the good end of the business as that they feared the French Commanders impatient of so long delay might perswade the King to come to a day of Battel with the Enemy whereby together with that Army the safety of their States and of the Liberty of all Italy would be put to the arbitriment of Fortune and Italy having no other means of making opposition would be left in prey to the Imperialists if they should prove victorious Whereat the Venetian Senate being troubled they did very much solicite Ronchfancora laying before him that the interest of the Confederates and the Kings own safety and glory and victory did wholly consist not in hazarding any thing but in making good use of time and of his enemies disorders and wants The like desires the Pope made likewise known to Alberto da Carpi Embassadour at Rome and did also send an express messenger with the same desires to the Camp But all these endeavours did but little good the King shewing himself every day more and more resolved not to rise from before Pavia but rather if the Enemy should draw nearer come unto a Battel whereby he was unnecessitated to hazard his own fortune and the like of his confederates which were all exposed to danger Wherefore the Pope the Venetians and Florentines resolveâ— to joyn in a defensive League for the preservation of their own States being to this purpose to take ten thousand Switzers into pay upon the common expence and each of them to encrease their own forces as much as they could which things whilst they were slowly and with various resolutions discuss'd the rout of the French Army ensued together with the death of many of the chief Lords of the Kingdom and the imprisonment of the Kings own person The Cesarians were come from Lodi to relieve Pavia which was reduced to a great scarcity of all things they being gotten to be strong enough and for Foot almost equal to the French Army though far inferiour to them in Horse and drawing near to the French Camp they forced the King either to suffer them to relieve Pavia or to come to a day of Battel the thing which they desired that they might put their desperate affairs to the utmost tryal and fortune favouring their forwardness they had the opportunity of assaulting the King in the Park where he contrary to the opinion of his best experienced Commanders would needs stay So as the French not being able to come into the field till it was too late nor to make use of their Horse wherein they did exceed the enemy the whole Army was routed and put to flight and the King taken Prisoner Monsieur d'Alanson only escaping with the Reer This so great and
would make thereof then in any self interest or doubt of theirs And Monsieur di Taberna who was resident in the Court of France on the Duke of Milan's behalf by not rejoycing nor holding any discourse with the King about this acquisition did by saying nothing witness as much his masters displeasure Which because it might produce many bad effects the Venetians laboured to free him of this suspition and to appease his displeasure witnessing the Kings good will and excusing Lautrech And that these their endeavours might be the more efficacious and to maintain the Dukes reputation as much as they could they sent Gabriel Veniero Embassadour to him to remain Resident with him Luigi Sabadino the States Secretary having been there till then Alexandria being taken Lautrech gave out that he would march with his Army towards Rome to free the Pope who though he had accorded with the Spaniards as hath been said was still kept Prisoner by them many difficulties being met withal as well in the payment of the monies promised to the Souldiers as in the assignation of the Strong-holds nor did Cesar seem to be well resolved therein though by his Speeches he sought to make the contrary be believed But the Venetians did openly oppose this course not but that they did equally with the King desire the Popes freedom but because they thought it little useful for the common affairs the same reasons and respects concurring then and being made more considerable by other new accidents which upon narrow examination before were by common consent thought sufficient to perswade that Lautrech when he past first over the Mountains was rather to come into Lombardy then into the Territories of Rome it being known that all the remainder of the War would depend upon the success thereof That there was great hopes at this time of getting the Cities of Pavia and Milan each of them being but slightly garrisoned and Antonio da Leva by whose diligence and discipline that State was more maintained then by his Forces being very sick and altogether disabled for action That if this occasion should be lost the condition of all things would grow dayly worse for the League for a great many Landsknechts were ready to fall down presently from the Country of Tinoll into Lombardy By whose coming the Enemy would become much stronger and it would be but in vain for the Confederates to attempt any thing But that if these men should find no safe receptacle in Milan they neither having Horse nor victuals they would be forced to alter their minds and to return home Time and opportunity would this mean while be gotten for the coming of the ten thousand Dutch Foot to the Camp which were raised with the King of Englands monies by which the Army being much increased both in reputation and Forces might with assured hopes of victory proceed on to the Enterprize of Rome and the Enemies would be soon driven from thence and the Ecclesiastical State and Liberty of Italy secured Lautrech being overcome by these reasons was content to march with his Army towards Pavia which not being timely succour'd by the Forces which Antonio da Leva sent thither from Milan fell easily into the Leagues hands and was sack'd by the Army the Souldiers using all sorts of cruelty to the Inhabitants because it was said that they boasted themselves to have quell'd the King of France by the imprisonment of King Francis which hapned whilst he besieged that City This News was very welcome to France the French men thinking that by this victory they had cancell'd the infamy of the Battle fought by that Nation in that place some few years before At the same time Andrea Doria was come to Savona with his Gallies and some others belonging unto the French where the Venetian Gallies were to have joyned with him to attempt the business of Genna it being thought that great advantage might have been made by that City if it should be reduced to the Kings obedience But after a whiles stay and before the Venetian Fleet came unto them a very fair occasion was offer'd of suddenly dispatching the business For the Genouese ships being come loaded with corn to the Washes near Porto Fino the Genouese being very desirous to have them come safe unto the City were gone out to meet them with 8 Gallies part Genouese part Spanish and put therewith into the same Haven Moreover understanding that Doria had landed some men and that making some Trenches he indeavoured to make himself Master of the Haven and to hinder any relief from coming to those Ships and so get possession of them they had sent Agostino Spinola thitherward with a company of select Foot to disturbe the Enemies works and to secure the Haven and the Ships Wherein they had good success for Spinola falling at unawares upon Doria's Souldiers whilst they were confused and in disorder put them quickly to flight though they were more in number and took Phillippo Doria Prisoner But News coming not long after to Genua that Cesare Son to Ianus Frigoso was come into the Valley of Pozzavera and incamped in a Town called San Pietra de l'arena with two thousand Foot and some Troops of Venetian Horse with which Lautrech had sent him to favour the business of Genua and that being gone from thence he was marching towards that City they were all of them on a sudden mightily afraid for that their best Souldiers were gone out of the City to Porto Fino and for fear of some rising in the City by reason of the several factions that were therein Wherefore the Adorni who had then the chief Government of the City apprehending these commotions sent to Spinola commanding him to come speedily with all the men he had with him and to relieve the City So as being inforc'd to abandon the Fleet he left it a prey for Doria into whose hands eight Gallies six of the Enemies Ships fell without any dispute or danger The mean while the Adorni joyning many others of the people to the Souldiers which Spinola brought along with him believing that by falling at unawares upon the few that Fregoso brought along with him he might overcome them and keep the City safe and quiet they went forth and drew near the Enemies Quarters Who being advantagiously seated fought more confidently and did not only make their party good but began to disorder them afterwards to make them run killing many of them and taking many of them prisoners amongst which chief Commanders Spinola was one Wherefore Frâ—goso pursuing his victory and not being retarded by a company of Spanish foot of the Garrison who were march'd out to relieve their fellows he routed them easily and march'd towards the City of Genua which being bereft of almost all defence and having many in her who were formerly resolved to surrender by reason of the love they bore to the family of Fregosi and to the French did receive in Cesare Fregoso and
come himself to Venice to justifie his actions the Senate either being better informed or that they might the better accomodate themselves to the time and affairs would not suffer him to leave the Army but removing away the Guard from his Wife and Son seemed to be satisfied with him But the Venetians since they could not make Lautrech alter his resolution made their men come into Lombardy which were then about fifteen thousand foot having left three thousand five hundred Light Horse with Lautrech for the enterprize of Rome being thereunto moved out of the pressing care which they had of retaining the Towns which they had recovered in the Dukedom of Milan the weight whereof lay only upon the Common-wealth Francisco Sforza being so exhausted of money as he was hardly of himself able to maintain the ordinary Garrisons of the City much less to bring men into the Field as he was bound to do by his Articles and as was necessary to resist the Forces which were prepared by Antonio da Leva Moreover the respect of their own affairs did not a little move them and the fear of bringing the danger home unto themselves bereaving their Country of defence by sending their Forces so far off and especially because they heard that many armed people were gathered together in the parts about Tirol and that great provision of victuals and munition was made in the City of Trent to be sent into Italy And this fear made the greater impression in them because now Ferdinando of Austria who had quieted the affairs of Hungary by the victory he had gotten over Giovan the Vayvod of Transilvania had better conveniency to attend the affairs of Italy as he had oft times seemed very desirous to do Wherefore thinking it necessary to encrease their Army to the number of twenty thousand foot and to make greater provisions to maintain another great War the Senate entreated the King of England that he would be assistant to the Commonwealth and to the cause of Italy by contributing part of the expence in so great a need to the payment of that Army which was to maintain the Liberty of Italy which he had so often promised to defend But the King affirming still that he would make War upon Cesar in Flanders and free Italy from any such danger by diverting his Forces shewed that it was good for the common service to lessen the provisions which were destined for such enterprizes so as the Commonwealth being to be alone at so great expences and the publique Treasury being already much exhausted by the so long War was forc'd to have recourse to many extraordinary ways for the raising of monies Amidst all these preparations for War the business of Peace was not notwithstanding quite laid aside but the Emperour seeming to desire it had several Treaties with the King of France and with the Venetians somtimes apart for particular agreement and somtimes joyntly for a general peace The demands which were made on the King of France his part and on the Venetians were That Cesar should set the King of France his Sons at liberty That he should free the Pope and forgo whatsoever he held that belonged unto the Church That he should restore Francisco Storza Duke of Milan unto his State and that he should remove all his forces out of Lombardy and out of Rome Which Cesar neither wholly accepting of nor yet altogether denying he sought by various difficulties to hold on the more certain resolution chiefly by demanding a great sum of money of the Venetians whereby holding the business on foot but full of doubts he desired to take the advantage of time and to steer his course according to the event of the affairs of Italy and according to the preparations made by his Brother hoping the mean while to conclude the particular agreement with the King of France more to his own advantage to whom as the King acquainted the Venetians afterward he did at last propound The excluding of all the other Colleagues and the appropriating of the State of Milan to himself Whereby and by his first resolution in all his Treaties of having Sforza's cause decided by Judges and that in the mean while he should keep the City of Milan in his own name and with his Garrisons it might easily be conceived that all his Treaties tended only to this that the Confederates Armies being disbanded he might put himself in safe possession of the State of Milan so as all thoughts of Peace being laid aside War was again denounced by the Confederates to Cesar wherein thinking that it might make much for their advantage if they could draw the Duke of Ferara and the Marquis of Mantua into the League and having tryed them both they concluded with the Duke of Ferara to receive him into their League upon condition that he should maintain two hundred Curassiers at his own charges in the Colleagues Army and that he should contribute ten thousand Ducats monethly for the space of six moneths towards the payment of the Foot For which the Confederates were to take him and his State into their protection After which agreement a large and stately Palace which did formerly belong to him in Venice was restored unto him But the Treaty was somwhat more difficult with the Marquis of Mantua for he desired to be declared Captain General of the League in Lautrech's absence To which the Venetians would not consent in respect of the Duke of Urbine But at last Girallimo Zane Podesta of Verona being gone to Mantua in the publique name to treat of this business he concluded it without that condition taking the person and the State of the Marquis into the Confederates protection But Cesar seeing he was to make his party good against so many enemies and desiring to make his cause appear less dishonest and by so doing to sever the King of England perhaps from the rest of the Confederates he resolved at last to give the Pope his Liberty To which purpose he sent sufficient commissions to the Viceroy and to Don Hugo di Moncada who being dead the Viceroy concluded the Agreement The Pope being to leave according to former Articles Ostia Civita Vecchia and Civita Castellana in the Emperour's possession and paying the same sum of money though with some further respite of time And passing his word above all things else that he would not oppose Cesar in the affairs of Naples nor of Milan The Colleagues in the beginning of the year one thousand five hundred twenty eight prepared to make War with most powerful forces both by Land and Sea and chiefly to fall upon the Kingdom of Naples as the King of France had long before desired and intended Wherefore he prest the Venetians that they would encrease their Gallies to the number of twenty four according to the first capitulations But they said they had fully made good their promise with the former sixteen because of these there were eight Bastard Gallies every
sending for the Gallies to Naples made him quit the enterprize and give over the hoped for victory Phillippino Doria was already come to Naples with eight Gallies but these not being sufficient to keep the City from being victuall'd by Sea and it being likewise thought that they could not be safe there if the enemy should send forth their armed Vessels which were in the Haven Lautrech had continually solicited the Venetian Commanders to come as soon as they could and joyn with Doria's Gallies to secure them and to straiten the siege yet more Such were the proceedings in the Kingdom of Naples but the Venetians were busied with other affairs of no less importance for Henry Duke of Brunswick after many rumours of his coming being very much solicited by Charls and Ferdinand to pass into Italy and to enter Lombardy to divert the forces of the League from the enterprize of Naples which Kingdom being in great danger he saw he could not succour by any way better passing from Trent into Valledragi was entred into the Territories of Verona and had brought with him about twelve thousand foot with whom it was said that Antonio da Leva was to joyn who was already come into the field with eight thousand foot that they might joyntly fall upon the Town in the State of Venice which Brunswick had denounced war against having with much vanity and very ridiculously challenged the Duke thereof Andrea Gritti a man of fourscore years of age to fight a single Duel with him But the Senate was not wanting in diligence to arm themselves they designed to raise an Army of twelve thousand foot of which four thousand to be Switzers to which purpose they sent monies into Switzerland and desired the King of France to further this their Levy by his authority They likewise brought great store of light Horse from Greece and from Dalmatia and recalled the Duke of Urbine from Marc d' Ancona And to the end that their own State might not be bereft of defence whilst they went to defend the States of others they commanded him to view all their Cities and Forts of greatest importance to put good garrisons into them and to do whatsoever else he should judge might make most for their safety then they chose divers select Gentlemen whom they entrusted with the particular charge of the chief Cities Girollimo Diedo was sent with one hundred and fifty foot to Treviso Pietro Sagredo with as many to Padua Zaccheria Orio Phillippo Correro Allessandro Donato Ambrâ—gio Contarini Ioseppe Badoero Lorenzo Lanudo Agostino Canale and Almoro Barbaro were sent to Verona with 25 souldiers apiece wherewith they were to guard the gates and places of greatest importance These preparations were judged worthy consideration in France wherefore they likewise prepared to send powerfull Forces into Italy which were to be commanded by Monsi ur de St. Paul one of the house of Burbone a personage highly esteemed for his birth and other honourable endowments but not much experienced in war and as it proved afterwards not very fortunate in this enterprise But these provisions proved too late for the present occasion for the Duke of Brunswick finding himself strong enough designed to fall upon some of the Commonwealths Cities being the more encouraged so to do because at his first arrival Peschiera Rivoltella and some other Towns neighbouring upon the Lake of Garda yielded unto him But the Duke of Urbine who was at Verona diligently observing Brunswicks marches prevented his designes and went presently to Brescia where he augmented the Garrison and from thence to Bergamo putting many of the Inhabitants of those valleys who were very faithfull to the Venetian interest into the City and begirting the city with trenches and outworks put it in a posture of defence Moreover he cunningly made the men of those parts propound treaties of agreement and giving of monies wherein they spun out time to the end that by retarding Brunswick's march more opportunity might be had to secure the principal places wherein there being good store of Light-horse they infested the Dutch Camp by sallying out and disturb'd their Victuals And amongst these Geralamo da Canale did very good service with five hundred Crabats which he had brought with him out of Dalmatia So as Brunswick falling short of his hoped for success and being incommodated for victuals after having according to the barbarous and cruel custome of that Nation ruined the Country and burnt many noble edifices went out of the Venetian Confines and came into the State of Milan where he was met by Antonio da Leva who hearing of his arrival was past over the Ada to joyn with him in some enterprise Wherefore both of them repassing over the Ada they went to encamp before Lodi from whence the Duke of Milan was gone a little before being advertised of the enemies approach by Gabrielle Veniero the Venetian Embassadour and leaving a good number of men in that city he came by the Venetians advice to Brescia But the Venetian souldiers who were in Lodi and who were commanded by Paolo Sforza the Dukes bastard brother having valliantly withstood many assaults repuls'd the enemy Wherefore Brunswick not having much money to maintain the Army longer finding that he had spent much time in vain began to be aware of his idle thoughts whereunto he had out of vain glory and hopes of Booty been perswaded by Ferdinando d' Austria who minding more his brother's advantage then the success of the business had earnestly perswaded him to pass into Italy and without thinking of advancing further to enter into the Kingdome of Naples as he had at first purposed to do he went by the way of the Lake of Como to return to Germany being pursued by il Conte di Giazzo and by Mercurio Bua who issuing out of Bergamo fell upon his Reer but did not much prejudice the enemy because they were too late aware of their departure Yet many of the Dutch who in great numbers parted from the Camp were ransak'd and cut in pieces by the country people The besieged in Naples were much troubled to hear of the dissolution of the Dutch Foot being thereby bereaved of the onely relief wherein their safety lay For but a little before they had with bad success attempted to beat the Galleys of Philippo Doria that they might have the way open by Sea since they could come by no victualls by land Lautrech having possess'd himself of Pazzuolo and of the neighbouring places The Imperiall Commanders were likewise herewith much molested for understanding that the Venetian Fleet was suddenly to come into those Seas they knew their danger would be the greater and their remedy harder Therefore being resolved to prevent the Enemy they determined to put out from the Haven with 6 Galleys and many other armed Vessels and to assault Doria's Galleys and were so assured of Victory as they thought as the Marquis Guasto Don Hugo and other chief Commanders went aboard those
that should be made by Sea and that sufficient provision was had for any attempt that might be made by Land by the former confederacy Even for the affairs of Genua against which no Forces could be brought which were not to pass through the State of Milan which was comprehended within the Articles of the League and that experience her self did demonstrate that sufficient provisions were had for all things in the first agreement since Italy had already enjoyed three years peace which was respected even by those that had a mind to disturbe her The King of France seeking how to strengthen these allegations made by the Venetians strove to remove all suspitions of his making War The French Cardinals urg'd this much with the Pope the French Embassadour as much with the Senate so as Cesar having no hopes to prevail with the Venetians and the Pope himself growing cool therein seeing his intercessions could do no good and two Moneths being already over since the convention met so as Cesar's desires and occasions called him back into Spain The League between the Pope and the Emperour and the other Princes of Italy to wit the Dukes of Milan and Ferrara and the Cities of Genua Sienna Lucca and Florence was concluded and published about the end of February In which it was agreed upon That the aforenamed should deposit 110000 Ducates that the same provision should be monthly paid according to the certain proportions by them all in time of War and in time of Peace 25000 Ducates for the entertainment of the Commanders And Antonio da Leva was declared Captain General of the League The Duke of Savoy was likwise comprehended herein for what concern'd his Territories in Italy and also the Duke of Mantua but without any particular Obligation to pay their part of this contribution And it was observable that though the Commonwealth had neither assented unto nor intervened by her Agents in any Treaties yet either to give more reputation to the business or to make other Princes jealous of the Commonwealth it was said in the contents of the draught of this agreement that the League made the year 1529. between the Pope and the other Confederates with the Common-wealth of Venice was confirmed and established adding thereunto the names of the aforesaid Italian Princes and this was not only proclaimed but printed so as copies hereof coming to Constantinople and to England it gave occasion to those Princes both of which were Cesar's declared enemies to complain somwhat of the Senate and to seem jealous of them And to aggravate the business with Soliman it was added that many of the in habitants of the Islands belonging to the Commonwealth were in the Fleet when it went to Corone and to work the like effect in Henry that the Doctors of Padua publiquely appointed thereunto had determined the point of marriage on Cesar's side and against the King of England whereby he lay at this time under Ecclesiastical censure by the Pope Yet the Senate was very much pleased that in this convention wherein the Duke of Milan was present the match was concluded between him and the Lady Christerna daughter to the King of Denmark by Isabella Cesars Sister which was very much desired by the Venetians that they might see the succession of the State of Milan setled in the Family of the Sforzas and in a Prince of that State and an Italian for which the Commonwealth had undergone so long and so sore Wars Cesar went then from Bullognia towards Milan intending to take Sea as he did at Genua whither twenty five Gallies were brought by Doria to convey him to Barcelona and when he came to Cremona he writ lovingly to the Venetian Senate in which Letters he seemed to admit of their excuses in not assenting to the new League and desired to be serviceable to the Commonwealth Thus fair intelligence and friendship continuing between the Commonwealth and the House of Austria and all parties appearing desirous that the disputes between the King of the Romans and the Commonwealth touching the restitution of certain places possess'd by Ferdinand but belonging to the Commonwealth might be decided wherin Cesar himself did also intercede at last by consent of all sides Lodovico Porro a Senator of Milan was chosen Umpire and Girolamo Bulfark a Dutch Doctor Arbytrator for Ferdinand and Matheo Avogaro Bresâ—iano Doctor and Chevalier for the Venetians These met in the City of Trent whither also Secretary Andrea Rosso was sent by the Senate that he might be assistant at this negotiation and might inform the Senate of all that should pass who hoping to have the Forts of Marano and Gradisca restored unto them by friendly composition upon the disbursing of a certain sum of money sent Iouanni Delfino Podesta of Verona to Trent likewise to assist in this business but so many difficulties were met withal in this and in other affairs as the convention was dissolved without having concluded any thing The Austrian Commissary would have nothing treated of but such things and in such manner as might prove advantagious to his Prince But when it was proposed on the Venetians behalf that such things should also be decided wherein they and their subjects suffered as the restitution of some Towns and chiefly those which were wrongfully possest by the Austrian subjects after the capitulation of Bullognia Bulfarch either saying he had not sufficient commission to treat thereof or making some other excuse sought to delay deviate such Treaties but chiefly he would have nothing to do with the restitution of Aqueleia which Ferdinand was ty'd to return to the Patriarch as to the lawful owner thereof a thing which was desired and endeavour'd by the Venetians for many respects and without which they would not assent to other things though they should be agreed upon Whilst these things past amongst the Christian Princes the Turks being very intent upon the recovery of Corone had prepared a gallant Fleet and sent it early to Sea to that purpose To give a counterpoise to which Doria had likewise put together many Men of War in several places These preparations forc'd the Venetians to re-arm their Gallies which they had in the preceding Winter disarmed but howsoever continuing their former resolution of not intermedling in any thing between these Princes they renewed their orders of the former year to their General Capello who continued still his charge in the Fleet wherefore he sent Francisco Dandalo Captain of the Gulf with a good squadron of Gallies into this our Sea to guard it from the Pyrats who being very many did much harm and sent four other Gallies for the same end to Zant and the great Gallion to Capâ— Malio a very commodious place for the Navigation of our Ships which go unto the Levant a very great Vessel of stupendious building and excellently well provided of men and artillery and he with the rest of the Fleet kept about Corfu being contented according to the
the Senate had formerly well considered did consist in nothing more then in keeping the Forces of these two Princes as equally ballanced as might be so as the power of the one might be counterpoysed by the others wherefore doubting lest the King of France despairing of the Italian Princes friendship might not give over all thoughts of the affairs of Italy and so Cesar might be confirm'd in his grandetsa and be made as it were Arbitrator of all things he had desired to tye himself in the band of allyance with him as he had done with Cesar so as his authority might be still the greater with both the one and the other of them upon all occasions But though the Venetians knew these reasons yet thinking that they had discharged themselves sufficiently therein by refusing the new League proposed by Cesar whereby the King of France might hope in time to alienate them wholly from him and they desiring quiet at this time whereby the Common-wealth might take breath after so long and so sore molestations and put themselves into a better condition all things must needs be troublesome to them whereby this quiet might too soon be disturbed which they thought might happen the more easily by this alliance between the Pope and King of France for that having found by many experiences that the desire of aggrandizing his Family prevailed with the Pope above all other affections they thought he might easily be drawn by the King of France to favour the affairs of Milan the King promising him to do it for the Duke of Orleans now become his Nephew But though both the Interview and the Marriage were had the Pope not going to Nize to meet the King but to Marcelles to please him the more where the Marriage was celebrated with a great deal of Pomp yet these aspiring thoughts which were suspected succeeded not by reason of divers accidents which hapned both before and after the Popes death which ensued not long after Thus Italy remained quiet and the Venetians free from being bound to take up Arms. The commotions in Germany helped as was thought to keep the Pope from thinking of Novelties for the Lansgrave of Hesse having together with many other Protestant Princes raised many men to reinvest Ulderick Duke of Wittenbergh in his State it was said that they meant to pass therewith into Austria against Ferdinand and to come from thence into Italy a thing which the Germans did much desire and by the very name whereof their Army became the greater But these tumults were appeased by the agreement made with the King of the Romans against whom their chiefest quarrel was for his possessing the Territories of the Duke of Wittenbergh Thus Italy enjoyd great quiet and the Common-wealth was on this side free from trouble But for the matters of Sea they were at continual expence and full of State jealousies so as she could not be said to enjoy the benefit of peace perfectly The next ensuing year of 1534. was not freer from the voyages of Fleets and from these suspicions then were the preceding years for a powerfull Fleet was prepared at Constantinople which was likely to be the more formidable in that it was to be commanded by one so valiant and so well experienced as Cariadino hath been said to be Great store of armed Vessels were likewise provided in the West for Charles thinking that the Turks would turn their forces chiefly against his Territories did all he could to encrease his Fleet so as it might be able to resist them and the King of France who grew dayly more impatient of being in peace armed 30 Galleys at Marcelles to what end it was not yet known Many Frigats were also rigg'd on the Coasts of Barbary not onely to pillage but to joyn with the Turkish Fleet and to adhere to Cariadino and amongst other Pyrates Sinam Cifut a renegado surnamed Il Giudco was very famous as being a bold man and very well experienced at Sea affairs Wherefore the Pope to secure his channels from these Incursions and as some thought out of other designes armed ten Galleys These so many Fleets made the Venetians very jealous and forced them to be at great expense in increasing the number of their Galleys and of their Garrisons upon the Sea coasts Wherefore being necessitated to use all helps by reason of so many extraordinary expenses they had recourse unto the Pope again that they might be permitted to raise an hundred thousand Duckets for these publick and important necessities out of the revenues of the Clergie of their Common-wealth There were some who having found the Pope to be very hard to be brought to this advised that either the State might raise these moneys of themselves or that they should be a little more urgent with the Pope alledging that great store of wealth was appropriated to the Church in their State which being free and exempt from all publick contributions the rest of the Country was subject to insupportable grievances and yet the charges of Fleets and Souldiers was raised for the generall freedomes and possessions and that it was not to be believed that it was the intention of those pious men who had thus endowed the Churches to destroy the Common-wealth thereby by depriving her of making use of the revenues of any particular men whereby the publick Treasury was maintained That they found the Pope to be ill affected to their Common-wealth and the affairs thereof which had made him often deny these so reasonable requests by still interposing new delayes and difficulties Yet such was the Senators zeal to religion and their respect such to the Apostolick sea as suffering these to overcome all other considerations these mens advice was not listned unto but the major part of the Senatours did resolutely affirm That it did not become that Common-wealth which was borne and continued Christian and had been perpetually obedient and kept joyned to the Church and Pope of Rome whereby she had purchased great and exemplary glory to do now any thing which might detract from her so many former meritorious actions or to differ from what she had been for so many preceding years by seizing upon the Churches revenues or by violating therein the Pope's will That the Commonwealth had governed and susteined her self in harder times then these without any such means or using any such scandalous courses That they were not to distrust but that he who sees the hearts of men and who is able to do all things would even in greater necessities furnish them by unknown wayes with much more prevalent means then those weake ones which they sought to finde out by such inhumane and dangerous counsels That if the Pope should continue in his wonted obdurancie the wisdome of the Venetian Senate ought to appear both before God and man to be so much the more pious and mature This opinion prevayling and they continuing to proceed with the Pope with all humanity and reverence they
year as his Fuditory 6 Barbary Mares 12. Falcons and 12000 Crowns for the pay of 1000 Spanish Foot to be kept as an ordinary Garrison in Goletta and so sayled with his whole Fleet into Sicily Where having tarried a good while in Palermo and Messina he dismist the greatest part of his Ships and disbanded his Army keeping only 2000 Foot for his Guard which things being done he wintered in Naples where he was received with extraordinary honour and entertained with many Solemn shows these demonstrations of joy being made the greater for that never Emperour was seen before in that Kingdom and by reason of the marriage which was at this time there consummated between his natural daughter the Lady Margeret and Alexander de Medici Duke of Florence Divers Princes and Princes Embassadors came to Naples to meet him and the Common-wealth as she had done formerly sent four Embassadours thither Marco â—oscari Iovan Delphino Vicenzo Grimani and Thomaso Contarini â—ho were to congratulate his Affrican Victory and acquisitions which truly were very acceptable to the Venetians For though the increasing of Cesar's power was being considered in it self but bad tidings and much to be suspected in a Prince so highly spirited and so powerful as was Charls yet was it welcom since thereby his greatness did counterpoise the like of the Ottoman family and made for the good of Christendom and especially for the Venetians who were most exposed to the Turkish forces Whilst the Emperour was busied in these affairs Francisco Sforza Duke of Milan died leaving no Heirs male behind him to inherit that State who being dead the Senate of Milan gave the care of that State to Antonio da Leva who was to administer it in the name of the Dutchess Dowager till Cesars mind might be known Who graciously receiving the Dutchess who went to meet him at Naples seemed to be much troubled at the Dukes death either for the love he bore him or for fear lest this accident might trouble the peace of Italy or out of dissembling seeking hereby to shew that he did not aspire unto that State But the Venetians were much more truly grieved hereat who having long and with much expence maintained war to the end that that State might have a particular Lord of its own and one who might be an Italian saw that this their desire grew doubtful and dangerous by the Dukes death and that occasion and peradventure necessity might thereby arise of reassuming Arms. Therefore when Cesar was come to Naples they acquainted him with their desires and with the affairs of Italy desiring him to find out some means of preserving that peace which he himself had introduced and seemed to desire so much To which Cesar answered That as the care of providing for that State which held in Fee of him did belong to him so he desired to do what might be acceptable to the Italian Princes and chiefly to the Venetians that therefore he would willingly hear what they could inform him of that so he might the better order things for the good of Italy and according to their intentions But the Senate desiring exceedingly that the Dukedom of Milan might be still governed by one particular man and not knowing well what Cesars intentions were therein nor being willing though peradventure little to their good to offend either him or others were resolute in their proposal that some one should be invested in that State who should be thought proper for the peace of Italy therefore though the four aforesaid Embassadors went to Naples they committed nothing concerning that unto their charge at which the Emperour marvelling a little and desiring to keep fair with the Venetians as the occasion required he promoted new discourse concerning it concluding finally as he had formerly said that not being as yet resolved on whom to bestow the Dukedom of Milan he would willingly hear somwhat proposed herein by the Senate and that he would very well consider what they should advise him to therein and afterwards growing jealous of the proceedings of the French he desired the Venetians that as they had renew'd their league with him upon occasion of the Popes death so they would do the like now upon the death of the Duke of Milan that he desiâ—â— this for the better security of the affairs of Italy and to take all occasion away from any one that might have a mind to disturb the quiet which she now enjoy'd and the Venetians desiring the same satisfied Cesar therein and confirmed the League upon the former conditions wherein they reserved a place for the Pope and for him who should be chosen Duke of Milan They thought it good to yeild to Cesar's first desires as well to shew their readiness to please him as likewise to shun the treating hereof at Rome whither Cesar was suddenly to come which would have given some suspition to the Turks by reason of the usual proposals made by all Popes against Infidels in their Leagues though of a long while but of little advantage Which reasons being either not well known or not well considered by the Pope he complained of the Venetians saying that they had taken this resolution too soon and that they ought to have deferr'd it till his pleasure had been known therein and till the Emperour had been come to Rome By the Duke of Milan's death the King of France soon renewed his ardent desire of getting that State preparing therefore for it he resolved first to try the Venetians minds concerning it whose State and Forces were of all other things most requisite to effect his desires therein He therefore sent Monsieur de Biones Gentleman of his chamber to Venice To know what the opinion of the Senate was upon this occasion which as he said was now offered of securing and enlarging their Commonwealth He said he had forces monies friends and all things else whereby this enterprise might be undertaken with assured hopes for which he promised to reward them honourably if they would declare themselves his Friends and Confederates which things it not being thought fit to listen unto at this time answer was made in general terms That the Commonwealth had always desired peace and endeavour'd it and that it ought now chiefly to do so for that it had need of some rest after so long and so sore wars and because the present troubles of Christendom by reason of so many heresies risen in several parts perswaded rather to the extinguishing of them then to the undertaking new Wars yet they humbly thanked his Majesty for these offers and for this his confiding communication which they would never be unmindful of and that a fitter time might peradventure come of making use thereof But the King of France not foregoing his thoughts of sending his armies into Italy to acquire the Dukedom of Milan was very diligent in raising men that he might assault it as much at unawares as he could and to force his way the
formerly been his own restored unto him with a particular declaration that the Empire of Constantinople should belong unto the Emperour without prejudice to the Common-wealth for what belonged to her to which likewise La Vallone and Castel-Nuovo should be reserved as things appertaining to her and that a fitting proportion of what should be gotten should be reserved by way of pre-eminency for the Apostolick Sea That in other things whereunto none of them pretended every one of the confederates should partake thereof according to the proportion of his expence in the war that if the Island of Rhodes should be recovered it should be restored to the Knights of Ierusalem There was no mention made of the King of England in these Capitulations but the Venetians thinking they might receive no little aid from this King who was master of many Forces and of great Authority sought by their Secretary Girollimo Zuccato then resident with him to make him favour the League and desired the Pope to do the like which he did But he thinking himselfe scandalized for not being particularly named in the Capitulations would not give ear thereunto but complained that he and his Kingdom were not taken into such consideration by the Colleagues as they ought to have been And for the King of France there appeared new signs every day that he had no minde to enter into the League wherein the increase of his Rival and perpetuall Enemy's forces and reputation the Emperour was treated on The League being concluded and established in manner aforesaid the Venetians ordered their General Capello that if the Turkish Fleet should come into the gulph he would tarry behinde in the Levant so as he might the easlier passe into Sicily or whithersoever he were to joyn with the Confederates Fleets This course was judged good to incourage those of the Levant and to indammage the Enemy according as occasion should serve and that they might not lessen the Garrisons 2000 foot were raised and forthwith sent to re-inforce the Fleet. Some were of opinion that the Generall should have free leave given him to do upon all occasions whatsoever he should think would be best for the Common-wealth They urged that since all accidents which might occur could not be fore-seen and according to which the Generall was to order his designs and to steer his course it was a dangerous thing to binde him up by Commissions and to force him to do what peradventure might be contrary to reason they instanced in the successes of the last year wherein the having given limited orders to Generall Pesaro had been the cause of great disorders which proved at last the breaking out into war Yet the consideration of not retarding the joyning of the Fleets prevail'd as also a certain indignity which as it was thought it would prove if the Generall should think of retreating as if he shun'd the Enemy and should therefore withdraw himselfe with his Gallies into the waters about the City whereby so great a preparation should prove vain But above all things they vvere very solicitous in providing monies whereby to supply their expences A Bank vvas therefore erected in the Exchequer wherein as many as vvould bring in any Monies into the publick Treasury vvere promised to be paid fourteen per cent during their life Much severity vvas used in calling in such Monies as were due to the Common-wealth Three other Commissaries were chosen for what should be borrowed Girollimo Marcello Bernardo Moro and Giulio Contarini but no use could as yet be made of the Clergies goods for though the Pope had transmuted the favour whereof he had before given so favourable an intention to the Senate to wit That he would permit them to alienate ten per cent of the Clergies Revenue till it should amount to a million of Gold or that they should raise it in five years space by so many Tenths of the same goods yet he had never given out his Briefs for either of these finding out severall excuses and delaies at such a pinch Many propositions were made for the raising of monies but the Senate proceeded with great respect and caution not to do any thing at this time which might peradventure lessen the peoples affection to the Common-wealth they would not therefore accept of the proposall of selling the Commons though much money might have been made thereby there being great store of them throughout the whole Terra ferma But for all this scarcity of money they spared not for any thing that was necessary for War victualls were provided from all parts and ammunition Ordnance were cast such Ladders Pick-axes Spades and other tools as the Duke of Urbine gave order for for Land-service were made in great abundance The Duke seemed very desirous to do great things in service to the Common-wealth and aspired to the obtaining immortall glory by war and truly the Senate confided very much in his worth and Loyalty in so much as the Pope threatning to make war upon his State by reason of his pretence to the Dukedom of Camerino as being held in fee-farm of the Church and which was then fallen to the Duke by the right of his wife the Senate dispatcht away one of their Secretaries speedily to Rome and obtain'd that the Duke should not be molested therein as long as he was imploy'd in the common service of the League or particularly by the Common-wealth He therefore caused two gallies to be prepared the one for himselfe to go in person to the Fleet the other for his Son to go in and chose his very good friend Barnard Sagredo one much esteemed of him by reason of his great experience at Sea to govern them the Senate being desirous to shew how acceptable this the Dukes good will was to them who had said he would bring his wife and family to live in Venice freely gave him one of the noblest Pallaces of the City but whilst he was carefully ordering all these affairs going to Pesaro to take order for his own particular businesse he fell into a great sicknesse which kept him from going to the Fleet. At the same time severall Negotiations were had of Peace between Caesar and the King of France both of them seeming to be desirous thereof to which purpose their Agents were forthwith sent to Canus a place between Parpignon and Narbonne but the whole time being spent in contentions no good came thereof For both these Princes Commissions were bounded and limitted in that very thing whereon all other resolutions did depend Cesar not giving way by any means to the restoring of the Dukedom of Millan not the King of France that any thing should be treated of the prime Article whereof should not be the restitution of that State Many things were propounded to bring these Princes to an Agreement chiefly the marriage between Mary Daughter to the King of Portugal lately dead and to the Queen then wife to Francis King of France and Neece to Cesar and
should be offered And it having hapned that two Turkish Gallies as they past from Barbary to Constantinople being suspected by their flying away at the sight of our Gallies to be Pyrates were taken by the Commissary at Sea most of the Turks slain and the Christian slaves that were in them set at liberty which was taken to be a bad sign of good will to Solimans proceedings and Barbarossa to whom those Gallies did belong seemed to be very much offended and threatned revenge wherefore the Senate to justifie this action as much as they could had made the accommodation thereof be taken in hand whereby time being gotten and Barbarossa's anger mitigated and the Turks repaired according to Articles for the losse they had suffered by the taking of their Gallies the affairs of the Common-wealth would be preserved from greater dangers Thus all parties being well minded to keep peace and friendship Gianusby sent to Venice to have those Articles confirmed by the Duke himself and by the Senators which were formerly made by Embassadour Badoaro by which means the French obtained Commission for Gianusby to endeavour the uniting of the Venetians in straiter friendship with their King The Turkish Embassadour was very honourably received and his demands listned unto for what concerned the confirmation of peace It was according to custome readily sworn unto by the Duke but for what concerned the favouring of the French affairs answer was made that the Common-wealth was in peace and friendship with the King of France and were resolved to keep so Mony they could not yeeld to do any thing now which might put a necessity upon them of taking up Arms against others and that Soliman was so wise and so just a Prince as they believed he would easily admit of these their just and well known considerations This answer being brought back to Soliman by Gianusby was commended by him as being wisely done and the same man making great attestations to him of the Venetians constant resolution in observing what they had promised and sworn he appeared to believe it and to be desirous to correspond with them in like faith and friendship Thus affairs passed at this time between Soliman and the Venetians but other no less important passages were treated of between them and Christian Princes still aiming at the same end of neither ayding nor offending any one nor of doing any thing which might draw them from their neutrality The Venetians were not a litâ—le troubled at the new disagreements between Caesar and the King of France and that out of many reasons They were sorry that there was no more place left for treaty of putting a new Duke into the State of Millan a thing which had often been promised them and which had been lately treated of more hopefully with the King of France at the meeting at Paris and to leave the Emperour in peacefull possession of the state of Millan was no other as had been long before fore-seen by the wisest Senators then to tolerate an immoderate greatness in the Emperour to the prejudice of the liberty of Italy and the present condition of times the Common-wealth being much exhausted and afflicted by the late Turkish Wars as also the various and fickle proceedings of the French on whose Counsells they knew by so many late and former proofs there was no relying did disswade them from foregoing his confederacy and from ingaging themselves in new Wars They were likewise troubled that the Turks being solicited by the French to Caesars prejudice were to send forth their Fleets to the certain present harm of Christendom and to the greater future danger for they would be the better informed in our Seas and Havens and their designs would be fomented by the discord of Christian Princes Yet minding onely such things whereby they might be safe through their own Forces and vigilancy without relying upon the friendship of others furnishing their Sea-Towns with good Garrisons Munition Victuals and all other necessaries and re-inforcing their Fleet the Venetians stood observing other mens actions not at all intermedling therein both these Princes laboured to make the Senate quit their Neutrality propounding several Agreements and Leagues by severall waies unto them Caesar was already come into Italy with a stedfast resolution of going into Africa not being to be disswaded neither by the Popes perswasions who laid before him his Brothers danger and the occasion offered him of greater and truer glory nor yet by his Captains counsells who wished him to weigh well the dubious succeâ—s of the Algier business the attempt being to be made in Autumn a season subject to various changes and in places full of inconveniencies and difficulties yet considering the power of the Turkish Forces and how far they might advance he propounded a new confederacy to the Venetians to secure Italy from the incursion of these miscreants saying that his Brother King Ferdinande the Pope and other Princes would joyn therein but the Senate not willing to run into certain danger for avoiding that which was farther off excused themselves as not being able to do it by reason of their late misfortunes of their present weaknesse in which condition they were afterwards the more confirm'd and did openly refuse to listen to any such propositions when they understood that the Pope was but meanly inclined thereunto for which though it were at first wondred at there were afterward many reasons found it was alleadged that Paule being a very wise Prince would not imbrace the Treaty of so important a businesse without rationall hopes of bringing it to a good end and that he having bereaft Ascanio Colonna of his state for his contumacy and disobedience to the Apostolick Sea would shun all occasions of restoring him to his former possessions as he foresaw he should be inforced to do if he should make a new confederacy with Cesar who could not in honour abandon one that had deserved so well at his hands and who had been the head of his faction in Italy But chiefly that being more intent upon an other business he might first indeavour whilst he was in his neutrality that the State of Millaâ— might be put into the hands of Octavio Fernese as in custody for Cesar and the King of France and to whom he might pay a certain homage till a better accommodation might be found out and herein he assured himself that the Venetians would interpose their authority But they perceiving that this businesse proceeded but coldly on and that there was but little hopes of good therein and being desirous not to give the Turks any vain suspicions forbore to send their Ambassadors to Luca though they were often solicited by Cesar so to do where the Pope and Cesar were to meet But they were not wanting in shewing all demonstrations of love and honour to Caesar's person they readily gave way for the Dutch Foot who were destined to go for Affrica to passe through their Country And hearing of his
comming by the way of Trent into Italy they quickly sent four Embassadours to him Iovan Antonio Veniero Nicolo Tiepolo Mark Antonio Contarini and Vicenzo Grimani who going to meet him upon the confines of Verona received him with much honour and waited upon him whilst he passed through the State which was but onely for two daies for going to Peschiera he entred into the Mantuan Territories from whence he went to Millan from thence to Genua and then to Luca to meet the Pope with whom having tarried a while he pursued his journey towards Algiers But his advice proved bad as was foreseen for having landed his men on the shore of Algiers and meeting with more resolution and worth in the Inhabitants of that City then he expected but chiefly receiving very great losse by the Arabian Horse raised by the Turks of the neighbouring Country who with great speed and with a new and unknown way of fighting to our Souldiers disturbed their works The time was so spun on as way was made to great ruine for a horrible tempest arising at Sea which made the Ships Anchors come home some were driven upon the shore others carried into the high and boisterous seas Insomuch as having lost many of his ships and the rest being much torn the Emperour was forc'd to quit the enterprise having onely purchased this praise That he was never in the least dismai'd amidst so many adversities and dangers Many chief personages who followed the Court perished by the distemper of the aire and sufferings amongst the rest Marino Iustiniano Embassadour from the Common-wealth who by orders from the Senate had alwaies accompanied the Emperour and Nicolo da Ponte who was then Lieutenant at Udine was chosen in his steed This so great losse was interpreted by some to redound much to the advantages of the Italian Princes since thereby Caesar's forces were weakned and his minde began to droop who having alwaies promised unto himself prosperous successe in all things was thought did aspire at the soveraignty of all Italy Notwithstanding others out of serious considerations were of another 〈◊〉 thinking this to be a common losse and inconvenience to Christians in generall and particularly to the Common-wealth of Venice For the Turkish Fleet being counterpoised by his Forces at sea that ceasing these more formidable Enemies grew almost insuperable and all things were exposed to their discretion and fury Whilst these things were done by Caesar the King of France his thoughts were not quiet who being highly incens'd against Caesar studied by all means possible to revenge the injuries he had received therefore he had by his Embassadors whom he had sent before to Luca to meet the Pope press'd hard that his Holinesse would declare that the Truce made formerly at Neece by his procurement and authority the more to honest his cause was broken by Fregoso's and Rincone's death But resolving howsoever to use Force and hoping to out-do Caesar by the friendship and assistance of the Turks and Venetians he resolved to send Paulino Embassadour to Constantinople to treat of the particulars touching the Fleet 's putting forth to prejudice Caesar and tryed again to get the Venetians to joyne with him On which Paulino having discoursed much before he parted from Constantinople he had obtained as hath been said that Ianusby should be commissioned to enterpose Soliman's authority with the Venetians to encline them to listen to his proposalls touching making War with Cesar. Paulino being then come to Venice as he returned to Constantinople he together with the Bishop of Monpelliers who was there Embassadour in ordinary for the King had private audience in the Colledge before the chief of the Councell of Ten where he delivered what they were ordered to do by the King Paulino in a long Oration perswaded the Senators to a new confederacy with the King What the ends were said he of the King my Master and what those of the Emperour may now be so plainly discerned by their actions as their ends and designes are no longer concealed The King of France at the Popes perswasion laid down his Arms in Piemont and stopt the course of his almost assured victories out of a good inclination which he alwaies had to concord so far as his honour might not be thereby prejudiced And the Emperour who first seemed so desirous of peace refusing Articles of a fair Agreement entred himself in person with an Army into France That the King was contented to accept of the Dukedom of Millan not to unite it to the Crown of France that so the Princes of Italy might not by reason of his greatnesse grow jealous of him but to make one of his sons Lord thereof And the Emperour being resolved to keep that Dukedom in himself had often deluded his King and the Princes of Italy with vain hopes especially the Venetians who desired alwaies more then others to haâ—e a new Duke and particular Lord in that State That the King had of late nobly refused the offers of those of Guant who rebelling against Cesar had recourse to him for protection Nay he had readily given way to Cesar 's men and for himself to passe through France for Flanders to appease the tumults of that Province from whence if he had been so minded he might have reaped advantage That he had several other waies witnessed his goodwill to Cesar having received him with incomparable honour throughout his 〈◊〉 â—ingdome in the very City of Paris and in his own Palace treating with him still with singular civility That on the other side as sooâ—â—s his businesse was done the Emperour had not onely not corresponded any waies with him openly denying what he had promised but being full of implacable anger against the King had treacherously and spitefully caused his servants to be slain when by the Truce renued at Paris all his affairs should have been secure That these and many other things which lay open to the eyes of all men might witnesse what the endeavours ends and natures of these two Princes were by which might be well considered whether of these ought to be chosen for a friend and confederate to the Common-wealth in whether she might repose more faith friendship gratitude equity and modesty in all proceedings That it ought also to be particularly considered how great Cesar 's power would be when he should together with the Kingdom of Naples securely possesse the State of Millan the French being excluded Italy and all allayes ceasing which might curb his desires bent undoubtedly to be Lord of all Italy That it was to be had in consideration what good might be got by keeping friendship with Cesar and what they could promise unto themselves from the King of France That Cesar promis'd onely in gratification to the Common-wealth to put a Duke into the State of Millan not intending as might be seen by his actions to do as he said That what his King's gratitude would be and the fruits of this new conjunction
his honour appeared to be otherwise minded either for that he was not well pleased with the Pope for not having openly declared for him as the esteem which he and his House had put upon him seemed to require he having preferr'd him before many honourable Allies in the marriage of his daughter as also the actions of his enemy the King of France who had joyned in league and friendship with the Turks to the prejudice of Christendom or else for that suspecting that the Pope would renue the Treaty of yielding up the Dukedome of Millan to Ottavio Fernese he being already resolved not to part with it upon any conditions he would shun the occasion of encreasing his ill-will to him by not giving him satisfaction and thrust him as it were upon the friendship of the King of France But the Pope esteeming his dignity injur'd if being gone from Rome to speak with Cesar he should suffer him to go out of Italy and not see him for nothing he could do was able to perswade the Emperour to come to Bullognia though he had sent his son Pier Luigi first to him to Genua with this his desire and afterwards his nephew Alexander Fernese who although very young was already made Cardinall he was content to go further to meet him Cesar having alledged for his excuse That he could not retard his journey by going out of his way The Town of Busetto belonging to the jurisdiction of the Palavisini was then appointed for this convention an incommodious and ignoble place but the issue of this interview was such as it was foreseen it would be for nothing was therein concluded neither for the publick service of Christendom nor for the particular advantage of the House of Fernese for Cesar was still resolute to pursue the war against the King of France and the Duke of Cleves And as for the businesse of Millan he would give no absolute negative to the Pope alledging that he could not of himself dispose of that State without the participation and consent of the Princes of the Empire By which answer his resolution of not parting with it was notwithstanding discovered The convention being dissolved which lasted but onely three daies Cesar pursuing his journey entred the State of Venice where he was met upon the confines by the four fore-named Embassadours and received and accompanied with the usuall demonstrations of honour As he without any delay went to Trent to go for Germany the State furnished him with all things necessary for his person and for his attendance and many offers were made unto him in the name of the publick but in generall terms not touching upon any businesse save onely that he would be a means to his brother for expedition in the affairs belonging to the resolution of Trent wherein they had already interessed themselves as friendly compositors Cesar past from Trent to â—lmes and from thence to Spire that he might be neerer the businesse he went about being followed wheresoever he went by Secretary Daniel Buonriccio Agent for the Common-wealth for the Embassadour Ponte falling desperately sick was forced to tarry at Trent and to return from thence to Venice and Bernardo Navagiero who was afterwards made a Cardinall by Pope Pius the fourth succeeded in his place Cesar's first attempts against the Duke of Cleves succeeded well for he tooke the City of Dura from him at the very first but soon after by the intercession and entreaties of the Duke of Brunswick and of the Elector of Collen and out of Cesar's own inclination that he might the more freely without any hinderance proceed on against the Kingdom of France he was by him received into favour and suffered to enjoy his whole Dukedom of Cleves upon the restitution of the Dukedom of Guelders which he had possest himselfe of At the same time the War was begun again in the Kingdom of Hungary whither Soliman being come with a powerfull Army making all the Country be ransackt and ruin'd by his Cavalry he sat down before Strigonia and whilst he was busied there he sent an Embassador to Venice to acquaint the Senate with his voyage and his designs and also to learn news of his Fleet which was busied at this time in the Haven of Villa Franca about the enterprise of Neece and he accordingly was advertised and thanked for his friendship to the common-wealth and for his acquainting her with his actions and counsells It behooved them to appear pleased with this demonstration of the Turks to preserve peace with them and better reputation with others by their friendship which was at this time of better esteem by reason of the Turks joyning with the French who were not wanting in making often mention of the terror of the Turk's enmity that they might make the Venetians be govern'd by them Wherefore Soliman having sent an other Embassador to Venice with new advertisements of his proceedings in Hungary the Senate thought they must not be wanting in correspondence with demonstration of like honour and love towards so great a Prince Stephano Tiepolo was therefore chosen for this Embassy who had already laid down his Commission of Generall at Sea This man was to go in the spring to Constantinople where Soliman who was already upon his return was then to be to congratulate his happy return and to promise good correspondency and continuance of friendship with that Court. The businesse of Marano was not as yet quieted but the French were still more hot in maintaining that Fort and the Dutch in recovering it so as besides 400 Foot who were brought thither first by Monsieur de Senei the King of France sent a new recruit thither of a good many foot and horse And on the other side the King of the Romanes sent some Dutch foot companies over the Mountains under the Conduct of Giovan Baptista Savello and mustred some others of his nearest Territories to make up a body of an Army wherewith to besiege Marano and they were all forthwith suffered to passe through the Common-wealth that they might appear free from siding with any one in this businesse The Venetians were more troubled at the manning out of a Pinnace and two Brigantines at Trieste wherewith they began to streiten Marano by Sea entring by the Haven of Dignano because they would of necessity draw other armed Vessels to those parts and the sufferance of these seemed to intrench upon the Common-wealths pretences to that Haven and shew'd some partiality in them by suffering Maranos out-rages in the same parts where by formerly destroying the Fort they would not favour her defence yet the Common-wealth proceeding calmly on indeavour'd to free her selfe from these prejudices and jealousies rather by negotiations and by a certain cautiousness than by open force Therefore they prest Ferdinando and the Emperour very much that those armed Vessels might not tarry in that Haven and at the same time caused the Captain of the fly-boats and one well arm'd Gallie to come
towards the common good and particularly towards your prosperity to know your own greatnesse and forces and withall to know the opportunity nay the necessity which the condition of the Times and the designs of other Princes doe put upon you to imbrace these great offers which are made you the which I knowing them to be effectually such hath made me to undertake this imployment the more willingly as thinking I shall not do service onely to the King therein to whom I stand so much indebted but that I shall also procure the liberty and greatness of Italy Your not having formerly agreed with our King and accepted his offers hath not been esteemed a coolnesse in your affection towards the Crown of France since there have been sufficient both modern and ancient Testimonies thereof nor to any little credit you give to the Kings promises since this Common-wealth hath to her great advantage joyn'd in league so often with his predecessors and with himselfe nor yet to want of Counsell or care in Government your Senate having alwaies been a more vigilant Guardian then any other Potentate not onely of your own Country but also of the liberty of others and for a long time a true defender and Arbitrator of the affairs of Italy but for that in a businesse of so great moment as this you have been pleased to proceed with all maturity lest you might repent too late the having quitted your Neutrality and have entred into the charge and trouble of War so as there is none who can as yet blame this your resolution but all things which might have caused any doubt are now so ripened that there is no time left for longer delay Caesars ends and intentions are now too well known to be wholly bent upon making himselfe supream Monarch and in particular Lord of Italy Him hath the King opposed in these things with all his might and for this is he the more hated by Caesar because he sees he withstands these his machinations and that he is ready not onely to defend his own affairs but to become a refuge to others who have need of assistance against this powerfull Enemy and hath been able hitherto by the Forces of his own Kingdom to oppose the violence of the Dutch and Spanish Forces able to frustrate Caesars hopes to maintain his own Dominions and to repair the eminent dangers of other men But now that Caesars power is so increased by having the Forces of Germany of the Swissers and of the King of England joyn'd with him as that every other Prince ought to be jealous of him and to be awakned at the aspect of such greatnesse which is in an instant both born and sprung up and to provide against it before the mischiefe be grown greater which threatens all men The King of France his Forces are certainly very great his mind very ready to imploy them all against Caesars immoderate greatnesse wherein he will value nor labour nor expence nor danger being resolved to run all fortunes and never to lay down Arms unlesse overcome by utmost necessity or that there be no occasion to make use of them but that he may secure these his intentions the most he may to shew that he doth not undervalue the forces and assistants of others when the common cause is in question it is therefore that he hath made known these his most important respects to you Gentlemen 't is therefore that he hath opened his most inward thoughts unto you and hath indeavour'd a new conjunction between this Common-wealth and his Kingdom because when the wills and forces of these two Potentates shall be joyn'd and that it may in reason be thought that the safety of their states is in a good part provided for Caesar may be made to divide his Armies and no longer think upon usurping other mens Estates but upon defending his own The King doth therefore desire and this it is that he wills me particularly to propose unto you that your Fleet may be brought to the Rivers of Puglia where the Towns being unprovided of Garrisons the people well affected towards the Common-wealth and declared enemies to the Spaniards there may be hopes of doing much good speedily And on his part he offers to maintain alwaies 15000 choice Foot in Piemont or where else you shall please whereby the Imperialists being curb'd your State by Land may be safe from all danger nay the Dukedom of Millan and the Duke of Savoy's whole State whose interest is the same with Caesars will be sorely indangered In this Proposition all things will be maturely considered it will be sufficiently known that all things do therein concur which may make a Prince take up Arms the necessary defence and safety of his own affairs hopes grounded upon good foundations to increase Dominion the assured purchasing of a powerfull and faithfull friend in all Fortunes The very resolutions of your Senate shew that Caesars greatnesse ought to be esteemed a sufficient cause to make your Common-wealth take up Arms to keep off further dangers which much to your praise have constantly for so long a time maintained Wars not being frightned by any danger nor changed for any expence or trouble onely to keep the State of Millan from falling into Caesars hands For you know it was too great a danger to have so powerfull a Neighbour But if these things were apprehended when they were farther off and the suspitions therof indeavour'd to be secured how ought they to be suffered now that they are at hand when Caesars counsells are sufficiently known when his cunning is discovered and when there is no more hope left that he will quit the State of Millan Can it be thought a good and wholesome counsell to neglect the occasion now which was more desired by you then than any thing else to oppose Caesars vast designs and not to suffer the Malady to grow to such a height as that no remedy will be found for it Consider I beseech you if it should so fall out as all human things are subject to various changes That the Kingdome of France assaulted by such powerfull forces I will not say should be lost but should be so weakened as that not any Prince should for many years be able to counterpoise Cesar 's power Who sees not to what condition the liberty of Italy would be reduced Who can think himself free from his injuries for not having offended him Who can hope to work upon his haughtinesse by submission Who can think that his insatiable thirst after Government can ever be satisfied by any acquisition Cesar will say that you have opposed his greatnesse because you have not favoured him that you have not valued his friendship because you would not make a straiter conjunction with him though it be known he sought thereby to put greater ties upon you for his own advantage So as it cannot be thought safe for you to keep at this time in your Neutrality for it doth neither
mind with him and did hope that the King of Poland and the Duke of Muscovy would follow his example but that it was necessary to see first what the other Princes would do and particularly the King of Spain whose pleasure in that point he had desired to know speedily and assuredly by a messenger which he had purposely sent unto him The Pope did often solicite Charles the ninth King of France by his Nuncio to side with the League indeavouring to perswade him that though perhaps he could not lend so speedy assistance to the League as was requisite by reason of the troubles his Kingdom had been in for many years of late by domestick affairs yet ought he to favour it as much as he could and adde unto the Reputation if not unto the Forces thereof by his name and by his authority which request the King not thinking himselfe able to satisfie and yet being unwilling to seem to undervalue the Pope's exhortations and authority he interposed severall delays saying That he would see what others would do who were then more powerfull then he and freer from impediments But the Queen-Mother on whom the weight of that Government did then very much rest excusing her selfe more directly said that her Son's condition differed from that of other Princes because the point in hand with them was of continuing War against an Enemy but with France it was of breaking amity with a potent Prince their ancient friend that therefore it was a businesse of great weight and which ought to be well considered But both the King and Queen were very civill in their speeches towards the Common-wealth in so much as to boot with their offers made to the Venetian Embassador then resident in the Court of France and many that they made their Embassador make who were then resident at Venice The King sent a Gentleman of his expresly to offer unto the Signory all that it was possible for the Kingdom of France to do at the present being molested with so grievous accidents to wit That he would use his Authority to divert this War and to accommodate their affairs with the Turkish Emperour making use of that friendship which he had never contracted but found it commenc'd by his Grandfather King Francis and by Henry his Father and that he would think she should now make good use thereof if he could thereby do any service to his ancient good friends the Venetians But neither did time nor occasion permit any use to be made of these things preparations for War being already too far advanced on both sides nor was it thought a good course to slaken either other Princes or themselves all of them being now hotly set upon War and bent to defend their own Dominions The Italian Princes appeared well inclined to the League the Duke of Urbin offered both himselfe and his State readily and the Duke of Savoy did the like but to better advantage by reason of his Gallies whereof good use might be made as did after the Confederates The Duke of Florence was the more forward herein professing to be govern'd in all things by the Pope as being oblig'd to him for his new access of honour and to win his favour the more he seemed not onely willing to favour the League but being then in Rome he incouraged the Pope to what he saw him already zealously bent But the Duke of Ferrara had so incens'd the Pope against him by reason of the old difference of the Salt and of certain Navigation upon the Poe as he constantly affirm'd that he would by no means bear with the disobedience of a vassail of the Church nor that his own Authority should be so lessened threatning to go against him with his temporall arms unlesse he altered his mind And on the other side the Duke said that if he were necessitated to do so to preserve the jurisdiction of those Dominions which being gotten by his Ancestors fell to him by right of Inheritance he would leave nothing unattempted nay that he would call in the French Hâ—genots to his assistance which the Venetian Senate thinking to be too unseasonable at this time and that it might not onely disturb the League which was now on Treaty but otherwise necessitate and indanger the Common-wealth they sent Iovan Formento Secretary of the Councell of Ten a man well experienced in such Negotiations to Ferrara to mediate with the Duke that considering the present state of affairs and the due obsequy which he ought to pay unto the Apostolick Sea he would both for the common good and for his own particular interest lay aside all thoughts which might put him upon the triall of his Forces and that he might hope to receive better and more certain advantage by Treaty Thus by the interposition of the Senates Authority first with the Duke and then with the Pope this other fire was extinguished which was a kindling to the prejudice of Christendom It was also resolved to solicite Tamas king of Persia to take up Arms and to revenge the ancient and new Injuries which his Kingdom had received by the Ottaman Princes Vicenza d' Allessandri was chosen for this imployment a Citizen of Venice as one who having lived long at Constantinople was vers'd in severall Languages and had had some converse with these barbarous Nations This man the passages being block'd up by reason of the Wars in the lower parts towards the Sea took his journey throuhg Germany Poland and Walacchia and coming to the banks of the Mare Majore took shipping at Moncastro which is the ancient Hermonassa and went from thence to Lynope a City famous for having been the Country of Mithredates and from thence he went to Tauris whither being come and understanding that Tamas was then at Casmin one of the Residences of the Kings of Persia which lies more inward into the Country which was anciently called Arsatia he went to that City Here being brought in by some Armenian Merchants who had had commerce formerly at Venice by night according to the custome of that Nation before Sultan Caidar Mirice the Kings third Son who was then his Lieutenant he had several long discourses with him touching his journey and the occasion thereof Vicenzo acquainted him with Selino's having taken up Arms against the Venetians and with the great preparations for War which was made by almost all the Princes of Christendom to assault the Turkish Empire by their Armies and by their Fleets exhorting him in the names of his Lords and Masters to make use of this occasion and to make War with the Turks on that side now that their Asian Territories being exhausted of all their Souldiers who were to be imploy'd in the enterprise of Cyprus were left a prey to whosoever would assault them All which things Caidar seemed willing to hear and by many questions inform'd himself of every particular but promis'd nothing save that he would be a means that he might be admitted to
Duke which is the highest degree of the Common-wealth there began some appearance of peace and quiet after so many troubles for the French who had been the beginners of the late Calamities were already driven out of Italy and had the Mountains given them for the bounders of their Empire and together with them it was thought that the sink of all other mischiefs was thrown out It was to be conceived by no improbable Arguments that Peace would be acceptable to all those who had any Dominion in Italy Caesar was not thought to be able of himself to make good the War having no hope of assistance from the French and invironed with many necessities wherefore it was likely that he would give way to some agreement nor were the Venetians averse unto it being now by the continual troubles of so many sore wars invited to rest The Pope who had wont to boast that he by Counsels had freed Italy from the slavery of the French it might with reason be thought that nothing could be more desired by him then this That since he had much inlarged the Churches Dominions and re-invested the Duke of Millan in his State the Affairs of Italy might begin to be in a better condition by injoying peace And it was very manifest that Ferdinand King of Spain was to desire peace more then the rest This wise Prince knew that it was by Peace that he was to confirm himself in his new possession of Naples and by his own industry or other mens negligence increase his Force and Reputation therefore under appearance of the Common good but indeed minding more his own advantage he had oftentimes sent Embassadours to Caesar and to the Venetians labouring to compound their differences But hardly did this light begin to appear out of cloudy by-gone-times when suddenly it vanished Some seeds of the former mischiefs remained yet in Italy for the strong astles of Genua Millan and Cremona held still for the King of France and many factious men began to desire Novelties and to the terror of all men news was spread abroad of new stirrings in France which as it was believed would suddenly break forth into open war Lodowick did greatly desire to recover the State of Millan and his ancient Reputation and he was much the more incited by the discord of the Colleague Princes hoping that he might easily divide them and get some of them to joyn with him when he should send his Army into Italy He therefore sometimes egg'd on Caesar to war against the Venetians and sometimes the Venetians against Caesar. He offered all his Forces to each of them he propounded great rewards of Victory he made himself appear to them to be in a condition of joyning with any one of them when the other should undervalue his Friendship Moreover to the end that a more firm and inviolable agreement might be made between them he promised Caesar to give him his Daughter Renea for wife to his Nephew Charls or else to his Nephew Ferdinand and to give with her for Portion the State of Millan when it should be regaind by their joynt Forces The Pope was hereat greatly troubled for he saw that great dangers were threatned to Italy by the power of the French which he did no less hate then fear but he was much in doubt which side he should favour If he should lean to Caesar he feared least the Venetians having no hopes of peace should have recourse to the friendship of the French and should endeavour to secure themselves by their Forces so as he should lose all that Glory which during all the time of his being Pope he had so much laboured after And on the contrary if he should lose Caesar by assisting the Venetians he thought he had not sufficiently provided for all dangers and being very jealous he perswaded himself it might easily happen that Caesar siding with the Council at Pisa which the King of France had long before set up against him and which was at this time removed to Lions his Glory and Dignity might be exposed to great danger But a fervent desire to get the City of Ferrara did most of all prevail with the Pope in making him alter his first resolution of assisting the Venetians Rejecting therefore at the last all things which might perswade him to the contrary he resolved to be govern'd by Caesars Interest and whereas formerly he had wont with great dexterity and humanity to exhort the Venetians to Peace he began now to threaten them severely if they did not accept thereof upon whatsoever severe condions as soon as it should be propounded Whereby he hoped to induce Caesar to give over the defence of Ferrara which losing his assistance must needs fall into his hands But the Venetians being certainly advertised by their Embassadour Francisco Foscari of these the Popes new inventions began to listen to the reasons which had been many times before urged by Andrea Gritti of joyning in League with the French This Andrea being taken Prisoner in Brescia and afterwards carried into France was for his wisdom good behaviour and affability very well esteemed of by all men and especially by the King and kept with great respect and honour so as he now convers'd and treated in the Court much liker an Embassadour of his Country than a Prisoner the Venetians thought it an unworthy thing and not to be endured that their prosperous Success in War against the French had brought them no advantage by reason of the great Injury that was done them by their Friends and Confederates who notwithstanding would have it believed that they had undertaken that War chiefly for the Venetians good and that their Common-wealth might flourish again By which appearances the Venetians being nourisht in hopes they were the cause why they willingly continued the War underwent much labour and danger not sparing for expences but as soon as the French had a way made them for the League Constanso Ferrario was suddenly sent to Venice to negotiate it not without the Kings consent and knowledg This man brought Letters with him to the Senate from Giovanni Giacopo Trinusio one who was then in great Authority with the King wherein he appeared to be very well inclined to the Common-wealth and then shewing the reason which had moved him to send this his Servant of purpose to them left the whole Authority of negotiating and concluding the business to him that it might be the more closely carried this business of Treaty touching the League with Ferrario was committed to Antonio Iustiniano one of the prime Senators and who was then in great esteem for his Wisedom These after divers meetings agreed that some things being altered which the condition of the times did require those capitulations should continue which were made some years before when the Venetians joyn'd in League with the French against the Sforza's Gritti was made acquainted with all this and was desired that he should by all means
too much trusting the Spaniards to put the whole Affairs of Italy into their hands that they had condescended that an Italian Duke should be Master of Millan because they knew he was rather to be a Prince in appearance than in effect whereby they hoped they might reduce that State upon the first occasion that should be offered under their Dominion That therefore moved by the same Interests they profess'd now to defend Maximillian Sforza that they might make use of the Millaneses and of the Switzers to drive the French out of Italy whom they thought they ought only to fear That it might clearly be seen the Spaniards did no less aspire to the Empire of Italy then did the French but whereas these made their way by open Force the others finding themselves to be too weak sought to work their ends by cunning and by cozenage and did under a colour of Friendship with the Italians undermine their Liberties That therefore it was very advantageous to suffer the Forces and Reputation of an other Forreign Prince to increase in Italy to obviate their Power since that the Italians who had been so long afflicted with War were not able of themselves to defend themselves against Forreign Nations The Venetians did by these reasons make good their Counsels and Actions but whilst these things were in Treaty with the Pope all sides made diligent preparations for War Nay Princes seemed to be the more set thereupon for that Leo by his various thoughts and promises made many of them hope to be able to maintain the War by his Help and Authority But the Venetians were more sollicitous in this business then the rest as those who found themselves most necessitated to continue the War therefore they raised men diligently in all parts to make up an Army They sollicited the King of France continually to come speedily into Italy shewing him that the Victory consisted chiefly in celerity That if such Cities as were not yet provided of Garrisons should be on the sudden assaulted they might be easily reduced into their Power But that if the business were spun out in length greater difficulties would daily arise King Lewis being moved by these Exhortations bent himself wholly upon this War and being desirous to imploy his whole Forces therein he agreed with Ferdinando to lay down Arms on the other side of the Mountains for a certain time This King was so carryed away with a vain glorious desire of recovering the State of Millan as he valued neither fear nor infamy So as not caring what blame he might incurre thereby he by this suspension of Arms gave over his Friends and Kinsmans Cause the King of Navarr who for having taken part with the French was a little before driven out of his Kingdom by the Spaniards and reduced to a miserable condition And being likewise advertised of great preparation for War made by Henry King of England a powerful Prince to assault France he contemn'd the Forces of that Kingdom though they had oft times made the French feel them to their Cost For having already in his mind taken in the whole state of Millan and taken the Victory for granted he thought he might bring back his victorious Army time enough to defend his own Kingdom before the English devested of all Military Preparations by reason of their long Peace could provide all things necessary for so great an Enterprize All the Kings men meâ— then according to Orders in the City of Susa that they might the more easily pass from thence into Italy Lewis Lord of Tremuglia a Personage very famous both for his Birth and for many places which he had discharged was made chief Commander of the Army Yet the War was for the most part govern'd according to the pleasure of Giovanni Giacomo Trivulcio who was at that time in great estimation for his great experience in Military Affairs 'T was said that the French Army consisted of about 20000 fighting men 〈…〉 muster'd 8000 choice Italian Foot to which were added 200 Câ—rassiers and 500 light Horse and a great Train of Artillery which did much strengthen the Army Two noble Venetians Domenico Contareno and Andrea Loredano were the Commissaries general whose particular care it is to provide Victuals Monies and all things requisite for the Army and then to be assistant in their Advice to the Captain General in all difficult businesses for the Venetians do themselves execute all the places of the Militia by Sea but in Terra firma by their ancient wont and the Custom of their Fore-fathers they manage their War by Forreigners At this time Bartholomeo Alviano was Captain General of the Venetian Army who being lately returned from France and Count Pitigliano being dead was chosen by the Senate to succeed in his place with the same Conditions which were granted formerly to Pitigliano His yearly pay was 50000 Duckets and he was bound to keep still on foot 300 Curassiers and 500 Cross-bow men on Horse-back to be ready upon any occasion to serve the Common-wealth This man when his place was conferr'd upon him went to the Army which was then upon the Banks of Adice and thinking it fit to be speedy in the business began forthwith to exhort the Senate that he might anticipate the time and that they would suffer him to march with his Army into the state of Millan whilst the Enemy were unprovided of aid and the Cities ungarrison'd That all other attempts would be in vain or to very little purpose that it was requisite that the Venetians should run the same fortune as did the French in 〈◊〉 War That if Affairs should go well with them it was no question but they were to share in the good Fortune but if otherwise they had no hope neither of getting any thing nor yet of keeping any thing that they had lately re-gained But the Senate after they had well and narrowly examined the business resolved that the Army should not pass the Rivers of Po and Ada for what remain'd they left the whole managing of the War free to Alviano with leave to direct his Forces and Designs whither he should be invited by the negligence of the Enemy or advised by his own Industry and Reason There was not as yet any certain News come that the French were past the Alpes therefore the Senate thought it a rash Counsel to leave their Countrey exposed to the Injuries of the Enemy and to send their Army to a place from whence in any case of adverse fortune they could not return But Alviano being very fervent in all he took in hand and very quick and bold thinking that the occasion and the present condition of Affairs invited him so to do resolved to advance immediately with his Army and took his way first towards Verona hoping to get that City Pandolfo Malatesta was taken into pay by Cesar at this time and made Governour of one of the Towers who allured by greater rewards had sided with the
Enemy when Affairs went ill with the Common-wealth This man had agreed with some Citizens who stood well affected to the Venetians to let in Alviano by St. George his Gate as soon as he should be come unto the walls of the City But the Conspiracy being discovered and Alviano knowing that the Town could not be easily stormed as also that though he should take the Town he must spend much time in taking in the Towers he thought it better to hasten towards Cremona and in his March thither took the Town of Vallegio and the Castle of Peschiera places for their scituation very fit and convenient for the State of Venice He gave the chaâ—ge of Vallegio to Zacharia Ghisi and that of Peschiera to Luigi Bembo and gave 200 Souldiers a piece to each of them The News of the Venetian Armies approach being come to Cremona those of the Town who were of the contrary Faction soon left the City and the rest who were of the Province of Marcha received Alviano and all his men readily into the City who were allowed to plunder a thousand Spanish Foot and 200 Curassiers who had the custody or the City the Commanders not suffering any prejudice to be done to the Citizens and keeping the Souldiers from plunder As soon as Alviano was entred within the Walls he soon made himself Master of the whole City for the Castle whereinto the Venetians had formerly put a Garrison who had sent a supply by Renzo de Ceri held still for the French Alviano displaying the French Colours upon the Walls let the City know that he received it in the Name of Lewis King of France for whom Theador de Triulcio who was then his Legate in the Venetian Army did take it He afterwards endeavoured to free the Common-wealth from any bâ—ame if having tryed all things in vain she were forced to accommodate â—er self to the Times and yeild up so rich a City and one which she did so dearly love to another He moreover exhorted the City to keep their Loyalty to so puissant and bountiful a King under whose Government if they would be honest and faithful men they might promise themselves to live for ever after safe and free from many grievances for which they were obliged to the Venetians who had procured them that good which they could never have hoped for from the afflicted Fortune of a petty Duke These things being so happily and so speedily done wonne great Reputation to the Venetian Army in so much as Soncino Lodi and other Towns of Giaradada following the Example of Cremona surrendered themselves to Alviano But the Venetians fared otherwise in the Territories of Verona and Vicenza For after Alviano was gone with his Army and had left small Garrisons in the Cities and Towns which held for them and that Sigismonde di Cavalli Commissary General of the Venetian Militia stay'd behind with some few men at St. Bonefaccio the Germans who kept Verona being advertised thereof sallied out of the City with 2000 Foot and 500 Horse and unexpectedly assault the Commissary Our men who for the most part were rude and unexperienced troubled at the sudden assault betook themselves to their heels and those few which stayd and would stand the Enemy being forsaken by their Companions fell into their power and amongst those Costanzo Pio a man famous for Birth and Worth The Commissary Cavalli seeing all his men routed and chiefly the Alban Horse wherein he had placed his chiefest hope began likewise to run and with him Giovanni Forte a Captain of Curassiers and a Troâ—p of Horse which had tarryed with him wherewith they got to Cologna but were so hotly pursâ—â—d by the Enemy as being hardly entred the Town and not having â—ny the least time to take a better Garrison into the Town or to put the men who were there in a posture of defence they understood that the Enemy were come and were about the Walls The Town being therefoâ—e strongly assaulted and but slenderly defended was storm'd and sackt Cavalli and Vector Malipiero Mayor of the Town together with some others of quality knowing that they were not safe in the Castle whereinto they were retired yielded themselves up to the Enemy and were by them taken Prisoners The Dutch men loaded with prey and not having received any harm returned back to Verona the Enemies grown insolent by their successes began to promise themselves greater prosperity and thus going forth of the City with 4000 Foot and 500 Horse they marched towards Vicenza which coming to the knowledg of Giovan Paolo Manfrone who had the keeping of that City he took in many Countrey men to a Band of Souldiers which he had with him and provided for any accident that might happen But the Dutch-men over-running the Territories of Vicenza ruin'd all things with sword fire and rapine and being come to the Town of Arzignano after having taken it they committed great slaughter amongst the Towns-men set fire on the Castle and on other Buildings and dispairing of ever getting the Town of Vicenza they returned safe to Verona Whilst Affairs went on thus in these parts tumults did dayly increase and disorders grow greater in the state of Millan nothing there was safe or quiet There was neither City nor Castle which either could or endeavour'd to resist the Enemy for the people of Millan and the other Towns thereabout being moved again by the approaching of the Venetian Army and by the French mens passing over the Alpes began to waver in their Loyalty The people wearied but a little before with the Government of the French did very much desire the return of the Sforzas their ancient Lords and Masters But finding afterwards that they had not got that Liberty nor Immunity which they expected for Maximillian their new Duke being but a weak Prince was forced to burthen the State with many impositions and being jealous of many was necessitated to injure many for the better securing of his Dominion changing their minds as is common with the vulgar people to do were desirous of Novelties thinking that for the future they should be in better condition and under more just Laws if the State should return again to be govern'd by the French Many also who hated idleness and quiet some who were poor and banisht and other moved by the diversity of Factions favour'd the French Therefore Count Mausocco son to Giovan Giacopo Trivulsio being gone with a Troop into sundry places to make the people rise finding them ready thereunto did easily work his ends Moreover Sacramoro Viscount who had the Charge of besieging the Castle of Millan forsaking the Sforzas as soon as he saw them forsaken by Fortune wheeled about with her and suffering the besieged to be relieved both with men and victuals discovered himself so far an Enemy to Duke Maximillian as it was now said abroad that he did not only plot against his State but against his life Maximillian being therefore greatly troubled seeing
his Affairs in so bad a posture and seeking to provide for his own safety retired with some few Horse into Navar to try the utmost of his Fortune For he understood that some Troops of the Switzers were already got thither expecting to be followed by many others of their Nation who came in much greater numbers to defend that State Wherefore the Millaneses seeing their City bereft both of Commander and Souldiers that their Castle which was well garrison'd was in the hands of the French and that the Enemies Army drew neer some allured by hopes of better Fortune others moved by fear thought it best to put themselves willingly into the power of the French and to this purpose to send Embassadours to the General of the Venetians Army who having already made a Bridg over the Ada threatned to bring his Army before the Town This mean while the French with whom was Andrea Gritti as Embassadour from Venice assaulted Italy took many Cities and Castles some by slight skirmishes some without any withstanding Thus the state of Millan straitned at one and the same time by the French and the Venetian Armies fell in a short time into the French mens hands Two only Cities Navar and Como held still for Maximillian The Venetians heightning their hopes by these prosperous successes promised unto themselves a happy end of all the War Their Army was grown into such Reputation after the getting of Cremona as Renzo da Ceri being ordered by Alviano to go with a Band of Souldiers to recover Brescia the City yielded as soon as he came before it For the Spaniards who had the Guard thereof when they heard of his approach withdrew themselves into the Castle There was but one thing which appeared might hinder the conceived hopes of Victory which was that it was said the Switzers had so zealously undertaken to protect Duke Maximillian as it was thought they would prefer his honour before whatsoever other thing Their Nation was then in very great esteem out of the opinion which was had of their excellent Discipline in War Wherefore they were much celebrated and feared by all people So as blown up with Pride for having once had good success in their attempts chiefly because the French Forces were once worsted by their means and Duke Maximillian restored to his state aspiring yet to greater Glory they did totally despise the French Nation which they had once overcome Their haughty minds could not endure to be despised and under-valued by King Lewis who when there was a treaty of renewing the League with them seemed more desirous of some little advancement of Moneys than of their Friendship whereupon the business remain'd undecided These men said that they had always highly esteemed the King of Fâ—ance his Friendship that they had toyled very much in several Wars to the end that he might by them receive Glory that having by their egregious actions deserved much better salary then they demanded they could not receive such reasonable reward from that ungrateful King as they by their service and hazard had won King Lewis repenting this his advice sent his Embassadours to their Dyets to accord those differences who though they had endeavoured to please some of the best amongst them with presents and promises yet could they not get them to receive the King into their Friendship 'T is thought that the hopes of great Reward and an Opinion of vain Glory did incite the multitude to fight against the King of France since they saw their Friends and Companions rich and return'd with Conquest from the late Wars of Italy The Popes authority and exhortations were added to these things for Iulio was wont mightily to magnifie the Helvetians whom he had honoured with the glorious title of DEFENDERS of the ECCLESIASTICAL LIBERTY and Leo did continually though under-hand solicite them to take upon them the defence of the state of Millan Besides he had sent them a certain summe of Money by Maximillian's Embassadour under pretence that it was due unto them for service done in the other Popes time And since the recent Memory of the glorious Actions done by that Nation invites me thereunto I have thought it greatly suiting with the business which I am now in hand with to say something of their Customes and Discipline The Switzers are a Nation of Rusticks far from any neatness or civil breeding but very desirous of War and for strength of body beyond all the Nations of Europe They inhabit those high Hills which bound France on the West side and on the East and North Confine upon Germany Therefore as formerly this Countrey was held a part of Gallia Belgica so now it is placed as a member thereof within the Confines of Germany The Inhabitants suffer much in the scarcity of all things by reason of the Countries barrenness the which they use to remedie not by cultevating the ground or by marchandizing as other people for the most part do but by the pay which they get in the Wars They think that curious and delicate living makes men effeminate therefore despising Learning and all civil Adornments they spend their lives in continual sweat and labour So as being naturally strong of body and accustoming themselves to hunger watching cold and thirst they do so strengthen themselves as they can easily undergo the hardest things As soon as their years will suffer them to bear Armes they leave their own homes put themselves into other Princes pay and learn all Military Affairs in Armies Hence is it that strength of body and experience in War makes these fiercely minded men so daring as they dread not any Enemie nor is there any Enterprize so hard or difficult which they do not willingly undertake whereby they have won singular praise for matter of War amongst all Nations and their Discipline is chiefly esteemed in pitcht fields when people fight with Banners flying For they so order their Squadrons as they stand fast and firm and bear any shock of the Enemy without any disorder But this their great Industry is marr'd and corrupted by many bad Customes so as they deserve not that praise which is due to true Worth For they esteem nothing a fault in War but to fear the Enemy and think it not a fault for able valiant men to take Liberty in committing other faults so as the Soul being sick and weak in what concerns true Honour suffers her self the more easily to be contaminated They have often therefore been observed to despise Loyalty to refuse obedience even to modest Commands and to measure all things according to their own Interests more then according to Honesty They have Liberty in great esteem and veneration and profess the maintaining thereof more than any other Nation doth Wherewith being contented and secured by their cragged scituation they go out of their Confines not with any intention of inlarging them but to fight for other mens Power and Glory So they exercise the Militia rather
Territories of Cremona Whereby the Venetian Army was troubled much to advance This the Enemies counsel being discovered by the Emperours Commanders who did not justly weigh the dangers and difficulties was the reason why they did greatly sollicite the Venetians that their men passing suddenly over the Ada at Trecco might place themselves somewhere whereby the City of Milan might be succour'd Whereupon many things being discuss'd by the Senators and knowing that the best resolution to be put on therein consisted in the particular condition of places and variety of accidents they committed the whole business to the opinion faith and diligence of the Duke their General leaving him to do what he thought might make most for the advantage of the Enterprize and for the satisfaction of the Collegues Having a convenient regard to the preservation of that Army on which the security of their State did chiefly depend But the Duke having maturely considered all the situations resolved to quarter his men beyond the River Oglio between Romano and Martiningo at which the Imperialists being but badly satisfied they desired that the Venetian Camp might be brought nearer Trecco and that if the Duke should not think fit to pass with all his men then over the Ada he should at least send 3000 Foot 200 Curassiers and 100 Light horse to relieve Colonna when they should be desired by him to do so Which thing being very hardly to be done the Duke sent Baldisera Signorelli to Milan to inform himself more particularly of Colonna's pleasure and designs and of the Enemies proceedings This mean while other succours came to defend the State of Milan for 400 Launce Knights whom Cesar had taken into pay in the Arch-dukes Country came to the Territories of Verona by the way of Trent and the Viceroy of Naples was already on his way with an Army To whom for his greater honour the Venetians sent their Embassadour Carlo Contarini to meet him and to be assistant to him The Duke of Burbone was likewise speedily expected whom Cesar had declared to be his Lievtenant General in Italy and to whom he had committed the whole management of the War Yet amidst the fury of arms the business of agreement between the Emperour and the most Christian King was not pretermitted The Arch-bishop of Bari who was once Nuntio from the Pope in France was at this time gone into Spain to treat upon the conditions of peace Which though of it self it was pleasing to the Common-wealth in relation to the general agreement yet could they not but be troubled thereat by reason that by former example they could not be totally free from fear that these two Princes might agree leaving them out and peradventure to their prejudice Yet the Senate unwilling to be faulty to the obligations of confederacy without some more evident reason gave commission to their Commissaries that if the Imperialists should have a mind to go into the field with all their Forces they should joyn with the Vice-roy of Naples and pass over the Ada But so as they might leave good Garrisons for the security of their Towns and be sure to quarter themselves in some strong and safe place and that above all things they should shun being necessitated to go into Milan But however the execution of this Order was delayed nor did the Army pass ouer the Ada For the Duke of Urbane thought it not safe to go into the field with those men till the Lance Knights and the Marquis of Mantua's forces were arrived and especially having understood that more Switzers were come into the French camp so as they now amounted to the number of 10000. Wherefore being desired by the Imperialists to go with his Army to Belrisguarda he refused to go for that quarter being but bare four miles from the French camp he had reason to fear that being so near the Enemy he might be forced to fight against his will and upon disadvantage He was moreover troubled to think that the Territories of Crema or of Burgamo might be assaulted by those of Lodi whether 2000 Switzers were lately come which Country was threatned also with another danger it being given out that 6000 Grisons were sent by the King of France to endammage it who just at this time had dismissed the Venetian Embassadour his Court But at last the Vice-roy continuing to sollicite the joyning of Forces the Senate to avoid the giving suspition of any distrust resolved to send again to the Duke of Urbane to joyn with the Imperialists having the mean while taken into pay 3000 Italian Foot 400 Light-horse in Greece for the preservation and safety of their State and the charge of these men was given to Iovanni Moro who was then chosen Podesta of Crema with the Title of Commissary General in Bresciana and Emo who was Commissary of the camp being at that same time very sick he got leave of the Senate to return to his own Country and Pietro Pesaro was chosen in his place But Carlo Contarini after having staid a while with the Viceroy was sent to Milan to the end that a Publick person might be near the Duke till such time as Marc ' Antonio Veniero who was intended to be sent Embadour to him but was now sick might go to perform his Embassie By the Venetians drawing near to the Town of Trecco the Marquis of Mantua being gone to the same purpose to Pavia the French Army was brought to a great scarcity of Victuals all passages being block'd up by which provisions were formerly brought to the camp in which the Venetians Greecian Horss did very good service So as the Admiral fearing least his Army might be reduced to the same necessity whereunto he had thought to reduce Milan he resolved to enlarge the siege and to take up his quarters 12 miles further off The Apostolick Sea being at this time two moneths vacant by the death of Adrian a new Pope to the general joy and satisfaction of all men was chosen For Iulio Cardinal of Medici being called up to the Supream dignity who was afterwards called Clement the 7th and was held by all men to be of a mature Judgmement great Ingenuity and of admirable dexterity in weighty and important business it was thought that Christendome was fitly provided of such a head as did become the conditions of those times The Senate desirous to do all honour and reverence to the new Pope resolved to send him eight Embassadours all of them chief Senatours of the Commonwealth to congratulate his election and to do their obeissance to him These were Marco Dandalo Ierolomi da Pesaro Dominico Veniero Vicenzo Carepello Thomasa Contarino Lorenzo Braggadino Nicolo Tiepolo and Luigi Bono Soon after the Duke Antonio Grimani dyed having had the Dukedome onely 22 moneths His funeral Oration was made by Frederico Valeresso a young man very eminent for his learning and he was honoured with a stately Tombe in St. Antonie's Church Andree Gritti was created
Duke in his place a man of great worth and fame who had for many years before been imployed in all the most important businesses of the Commonwealth both at home and abroad as partly may be seen by what wee have related So as it fell out very happily for the Commonwealth that in time of so great commotions of Armes a man of mature Wisdome and of very great Experience should happen to bee their head Thus ended the Year 1523. The Year 1524 followed In the beginning whereof the Affairs of France which did already begin to decline fell into much greater and irreparable ruine For the Admiral being brought into great streights both of Victuals and money so as many souldiers left the camp every day did notwithstanding still continue obstinately in his opinion increasing rather the disorders thereby then seeking to remedy them by some new resolves till such time as he was glad to free the State of Milan from all danger rather by his flight then by his retreat as shall be said hereafter By the enemiâ—s falling further off the Venetian Army was advanced to joyn with the Viceroy and with the Marquis of Mantua who leaving a sufficient Garrison in Milan were come before to those quarters so as the Imperialists beâ—ng very strong came too within five miles of the French camp and did not onely hinder them from making any further proceedings but did much indammage them hindering and disturbing their victuals and afterwards assuming more courage the Venetians and Imperialists passed over the Tessino near Pavia to make themselves masters of the Country and to keep the Enemy from those things which it did furnish them withall Which the French Commanders not having timely foreseen they were likewise forced to pass over the River to oppose the Imperialists designes But the Duke of Urbane being gotten beyond the Tessino began to possess himself of the Country and much to the praise of the Venetian souldiers stormed the Town of Garlasco a place esteemed strong both by situation and Art and wherein there was a good Garrison and did advance so gallantly with his Army as many Towns did of themselves come in to the Imperialists which harms the Admiral had hoped to prevent rather by the forces and advice of others then his own for having heard that Renzo da Ceri being already come to the confines of the State of Venice with 8000 Grisons was ready to enter with them into the Territories of Bergamo he thought that the Venetians moved by this danger would have recalled their Forces to defend their own affairs he hoped likewise that the Switzers which were sent him by the King would come quickly whereby he might recrute his Army which was much diminished but failling in both these hopes for the Venetians provided sufficiently against the Invasion of the Grisons who finding that they were likely to meet with opposition and not with help as was promissed them retreated quickly to their homes and the Switzers being come to the River which they found so swoln as they could not pass over it were forced to stay on the other side of the River so as the Admiral marched thetherward but was still pursued by the Imperialists and infected by them and throwing a bridg over the Sesia pass'd his whole Army over it that he might joyn with the Switzers and put himself into better order But the Imperialists finding in what disorder the French were in for in their March they had left many peices of artillery and other amunition behinde them desired the Duke of Urbane that he would together with them pass over the Lesia and so make use of the occasion which was offered them of destroying the Enemies Army totally Which request the Duke did not deny lâ—st the enemy might have stayed there if they had not been followed But howsoever resolving to go no further for the Articles of confederacy were fulfilled on the Venetians part in his having defended the state of Milan he ordered Commissary Pietro da Pesaro that the very day which was destin'd for the passing over Sesia he should retreat with the Foot and the Imperialists beginning to pass over the next day before day break the Duke pass'd over likewise with all his Horse which when the French understood they quitted their quarters and hasted to return back over the mountains lest they might have been faln upon by two Armies The Duke after he had ridden a little further on with the Imperialists told them the Common-wealth was not bound to do any more then what they had done nor could he enter into the Duke of Savoy's Country without a new Commission so passing back again over the River he joyned with Commissary Pesaro for which the Duke was very much praised who having shewed his wisdome valour and Loyalty in this as in all his other actions the Senate in acknowledgment of his deserts though he had served but some few moneths of 5 years which he was to serve honoured him with the Title of Captain General gave him the command of the Curassiers and added to his stipend and his name grew very famous throughout all Italy While the Venetians were busied in this War they were threatned elsewhere with great dangers and were full of Jealousie which put them to many other expences for they dayly discovered more haughty and ambitious thoughts in Soliman the Emperour of the Turks numerous Armies great preparations of Fleets and a mighty desire of Warlike glory Wherefore their State being to be in continual jealousie by reason of the power and ambition of so formidable an neighbour the Common-wealth kept all her places by Sea strongly garrison'd especially the Island of Cyprus which they knew Soliman did very much thirst after To supply so many expences they were forced to take several extraordinary courses for the raising of monies particularly by many Lones of particular Citizens and Citties who seing the occasion did with much readiness offer some of them 10000 Duckets some more according to their several abilities The difficulties with the house of Austrea were not at this time fully ended nor all the Capitulations agreed upon Wherefore Guiddo d'alla Torre was sent to Venice by the Archduke Ferdinand with whom they treated and concluded what belong'd to the restitution of the places in Friuli But more difficulties arising concerning the parts about Verona to put an end thereto it was resolved that Commissioners should be sent from all parties concerned to Riva di Trento whether the Arduke's Commissioners being come first and not finding those of the Venetians there after a short stay they departed and left the business undecided nay new disputes arose to hinder the effecting of what was formerly agreed upon with la Torre so as to the great displeasure of the Venetians this root of discension between the Commonwealth and the house of Austrea remayned yet alive At this time the King of France not having given over his thoughts concerning the affairs of
of Naples with two hundred Lanciers seven hundred Light Horse and four thousand Switzers desired leave of the Pope to pass thorow the State of the Church and thorow Tuscany to go to Naples which the French did the rather endeavour that the Imperial Forces drawing towards those parts the State of Milan might be the weaklier defended whereof many Towns did daily surrender without making almost any opposition But the main point of the War was brought to about Pavia to the taking whereof the King was come in person with his whole Army firmly resolving not to rise from before it till he had taken it for he thought that to leave a City of the Enemies behind him so well munited with men would be to the danger and certainly to the dishonour of that his Army which was said to consist of above 24000 Foot 2000 Curassiers a great Train of Artillery and wherein were all the famous Warriours of France and on the other side the Cesarians placed their chiefest hopes of good event in the preservation of that City wherefore all mens eyes were turned upon this business whereupon other important effects were to depend The Pope and the Venetians were chiefly solicitous herein fearing on the one side that the French forces who were but badly satisfied with them might prove victorious and on the other side that if the Imperialists should beat the French they would remain the sole Arbytrators of all Italy So as it being hard to know which party it was best to take to in so difficult a business they spun it out in length pitching almost upon a Neutrality therefore neither did their men go to assist the Imperialists neither did they come to any agreement with the French but expecting what the success at Pavia would be which the Town being now besieged would require some time they thought to make advantage of time Yet the Pope to the end that if need should be he might come to better conclusion with the French he by means of his Almner who was already sent to the camp did negotiate divers things tending to agreement To the which the King of France seeming to be very well inclined the business would have been soon agreed had not the arival of some new advertizements stop'd it on the Popes behalf for News being come that 6000 Dutch Foot which were sent by the Emperour to releive Milan were already come to Ispruch with whom the Arch-Duke Ferdinand was to come himself in person into Italy and also that the Spanish Foot which were destin'd for the same purpose were already imbarked the Pope being somwhat incouraged and thinking it stood with his honour since he was not inforced by any greater necessity to seem that he had realy according as it was given out sent his Almner to the French camp to treat of general peace together with particular agreement sent Paolo Vittori to the Viceroy to witness unto him his great desire answerable to the place he was in to make peace between the King of France and Cesar so as they might both attend according to their callings to repaire the present mischiefs which were threatned Christendom by Soliman who was already armed in the field That having therein all fitting respect to Cesar's benefit and satisfaction he would propound very good conditions unto him if as he had often affirmed his mind were inclined to peace To wit that he might freely keep possession of the Kingdom of Naples wherein he would oblige himself to maintain and defend him And that the French should possess the Dukedom of Milan but upon particular promise not to make any other attempt upon Italy without the Popes consent Which negotiations being held on for a few daies produced no other fruit but divers jealousies both in the French and Spaniards so as both parties did continue to solicite the Venetians to favour them Girolemo de Pij came to Venice on the behalf of the French indeavouring that the Common-wealth would renew their Friendship with the most Christian King or at least that she would not be against him And the Vice-roy sent Charles of Aragon thither desiring the Senate that they would cause their men to joyn with the Imperialists The French Embassadour was answered in general tearmes shewing that they had referred this whole business to the Pope but they gave the Vice-roy many reasons why they had delayed sending their men Thus they continued to proceed irresolutely a good while till at last the Pope having made agreement though very secretly with the King of France in behalf of himself and of the Venetians reserving a caution unto themselves and entering protestation likewise that they did not enter into the League to interrupt the general peace the Senate was necessitated to come to some resolution Many things and with much diversity of opinion were consulted hereupon And the Senate being met upon a day appointed to put a final end to the business Georgio Cornaro Procurator who had still been of the same opinion spoke thus I was never of their minds who think that States may be always governed by the same Rule and who are for the continuing in the same opinion on which they have once been of without distinguishing of times or affairs I very well know the uncertainty and variety of thâ—se affairs that we busie our selves about in these our discussions and therefore I doe little rely upon my self or my own judgment and I use not to be tâ—o forward in speaking my sense of things lest I may say somewhat which I may afterwards repent Which custom of mine I doe now the more willingly follow for that the business is dubious and difficult and subject to various and important accidents We speak of making a new League with the King of France and of foregoing that which but some moneths ago we made with Cesar which was published and begun to be observed I see that the State of the affairs of Italy is in a shoâ—t time altered and our designs hopes and fears altered through new accidents but I see also and very well know that this fluctuation and variety is such as we cannot ground any counsels we can take upon assured foundations nor can we presume that oâ—r this days results though now good will prove so to morrow for the Fortune of War is still in question and what the success shall be of the offence or defence of the State of Milan is uncertaine The whole condition of the affairs of Italy is most uncertain she is shaken and disturb'd by the armes of two of the cheifest Princes of Christendom Wherefore to know whereupon we may with most sâ—â—ety repose our hopes and our advices we must accurately consider the State of affairs ballancing the various nay rather contrary respects but chiefly we must lay aside all affâ—ction of love or fear by which we may be yet more blinded in coming to the knowledge of this truth which is of it self obscure and haâ—d to
deceived therein nay it may be our neutrallity will be so much the more pernicious for that we are secure on neither side and come what will come we are expos'd to the discretion of the Conquerour For it is not to be hoped that Cesar seeing himself abandoned by us at his greatest need will bear us any respect when he shall be at the highest pitch of his prosperity Nor that King Francis who hath so oft in vain sought our friendship when his fortune though favourable was yet doubtful will have us for his Friends and Confederates when he shall be totally Victor and free from the fear of his Enemies It is then the best course by much to side early with those whom we may promise our selves we may make use of as our truest friends and neighbours who can most opportunely assist us in our affairs and who we have reason to believe will in this great action bear away the victory and these are doubtlesly the French with whom we have been joyn'd in Amity for these many years between whom and us there hath past so many friendly offices and reciprocal good will who have the same affections respects and ends that we have to allay Cesar 's immoderate greatness I am of opinion that we ought to carry our selves much otherwise in these affairs then he advised who spoke last for it is often seen thaâ— greatest hatreds and enmities falls out amongst those who have been nearest joyn'd in affection and love which usually happens because the omissions of a friend who is tyed by many obligations to another is held to be greater then those of a stranger would be wherefore if we who have so many ties of obligation to the King of France shall defraud his hopes and interrupt his designs by separating our selves from him I know not how we can hope if we let slip this occasion to regain his favour and though his own Interests may perswade him to embrace our friendship yet we must think that Princes are but men and subject to like affections as other men are nay more then others because they may the more easily satisfie their appetite Anger therefore conceived by the King against us may be of greater force then any reason which should perswade him to the contrary But that which more imports our present Resolves is we see that Fortune favours the French very much and is ready to settle them in full possession of the Dukedome of Milan the King himself is in Italy with a powerful Army to the very fame whereof as many Cities have already yeilded so must Pavia quickly do to its Forces and whatsoever else the Imperialists hold in this State Moreoveâ— the Duke of Albeny is ready to pass with a great many men into the Kingdom of Naples to molest the Imperialists also in those parts who to succour it will be forc'd to divide their men and be the less able to defend the State of Milan I see not therefore upon what foundation he grounded his judgement who sought on the contrary to shew that Pavia may be maintained and that the â—rench Army will soon disband We know by the last advises that that City is brought into great straits of all things and that the Dutch Foot who were at first so ready to defend it being now oppress'd by many sufferings and not satisfied for their want of pay do daylie raise such tumults as they make their Commanders despair of any good success the Viceroy and Duke of Bourbon confess that unless Pavia be reâ—eved within a few days it must be lost and then withal the whole Dukedom of Milan And what hopes can there be of relieving a City inviron'd with so great and so valiant an Army there being but few men in it and faâ—â—ing of its expected succour I therefore think that it may be feared with reason that the Imperialists despairing to be able to defend the State of Milan will make use of all their forces in the Kingdom of Naples and the whole burthen of the War will rest upon us if we do not early stave off this danger And certainly it is too strait a precinct wherein he thought to save himself and whereinto to reduce our hopes who disswade us from friendship with the French and slight this safer receptacle affirming that the Kings Army will disband of its self and will be ruin'd by its own disorders On the contrary me-thinks that nothing hath been attempted of many late years by the French Nation in Italy which hath a fairer aspect of constant will and of assured success then this present business wherein the King seems to be very fervent wherein the whole glory and warlike honour of that Nation is concern'd there being therein the better sort of people and the most cryed up Commanders that France hath and it being assuredly known that if their so great Forces prove vain this time the Crown of France must for ever give over whatsoever it pretends unto in Italy and much to its shame and to its greatest dishonour tolerate Cesar 's so vast greatness and the like of the Spanish Nation which is very odious to them Whence it may be probably argued that the French will be very constant in their prosecuting this Siege of Pavia and that finally they must have the better of the whole war the end whereof as it becomes the wisdom of this State to foresee so it becomes us in like wisdom to provide early against those evils into which our State may by such accidents fall and to make use of those means which God of his Divine grace hath offered us by suddenly concluding a Confederacy with the most Christian King which hath been offered us by him himself and propounded unto us These words of Trevisano wrought very much upon the auditory and his reasons together with the inclination which the Venetians have commonly had to France in memory of their long friendship with that Nation did at last prevail but they were no less perswaded thereunto by the fear which they had on the one side of the present danger of the French and on the other side of Cesars future ambition Peace was then establish'd and concluded with the French by means of Embassadours at Rome and was afterwards confirmed in Venice in the beginning of Ianuary the year 1525. It was said in the preamble thereof That Pope Clement from the very beginning of his Popedom had alwaies had peace between Christian Princes for his principal object but that he could not effect this his desire before now by reason of divers impediments and difficulties that the present condition of times would not permit the deferring of laying the ground-work of universal Peace by accomodating the affairs of Italy wherefore his Holiness and the Venetian Senate knowing that the most Christian King was well enclined to the quiet and safety of Italy long vexed with perpetual war which drew on also other wars were come to agreement with the
signall Victory gotten by the Imperialists against the French was cause of much trouble to the Venetians knowing that a heavy load lay upon them for the Counterpoise of the French failing and all the other Princes of Italy being weak and full of Terrour by reason of this so mighty success they were almost of themselves alone to defend the liberty of Italy against the power of Cesar which was increased greatly by this his late good fortune nor could they hope that he would contain his Forces within the Confines of the State of Milan it was rather to be believed that his Army pursuing the victory would enter into the neighbouring States whereunto their being so unprovided to make any stout resistance might very well invite the Imperial commanders The Venetian Forces were onely of some consideration for they had 1000 Curassiers 600 Light-horse and 10000 foot they therefore resolved to make use of these forces and to increase them and to exhort the rest of the Princes of Italy to do the like and to arm themselves so strongly as they could But their chief study and care was to joyn themselves with the Pope for they believed that all the Potentates of Italy would finally depend upon his Authority and that there might be thereby some hopes of good They therefore solicited the Pope often Shewing him into what great dangers Italy was brought which if they should not receive some sudden and powerfull remedy they would increase so fast as all labour and industry and expence to prevent eminent ruine would be in vain That Cesar 's actions did clearly shew what his thoughts and intentions were since he had not assigned over the Dukedome of Milan to Francisco Sforza as by his Confederacy he was bound to do but that having defeated the French Army so as there was now no more fear of any enemy he did notwithstanding keep his souldiers still in that State placed Garrisons in the Cities and would have all things done by his authority and in his name and that certainly Cesar had so fair a way opened unto him of making himself master of Italy if the Italians would stand idle and leave their affairs to the discretion of others as one that were never so moderate having so fair an occasion could not abstain from turning his thoughts and Forces upon the taking of Territories so ill defended and that in such a case the State belonging to the Church would be no freer from offence then the like of their Commonwealth but would rather be in more danger because her weakness did the more expose her to injuries Nor did such thoughts and actions as these want several appearances of a fair collour far war Chiefly by reason of the League made by the Pope with the French which being come to the knowledg of the Imperialists they seemed to be more troubled thereat because it was made contrary to their opinion or sense they put him in mind that it became not a wise Prince to think upon giving satisfaction when he was able to take up armes and to depend upon himself and his own Forces and that truly the most expert men thought it a more easie thing far the Italian Princes to joyn together and being joyned to defend themselves against the Emperours Forces if the Pope would declare himself to be head and authour of such an Union For the Florentines were alwayes at his command and had now particularly signified their will and readiness to defend themselves by Francesco Vettori whom they had sent to Rome to that purpose thereby to invite him to take upon him the common defence That the Duke of Ferrara would be ready to do the like in consideration of his own State and to free himself from the contumacy which he was run into with the Church whereof he had already given sufficient signes he having sent an express messenger to Rome presently after the defeat of the French to offer the Pope 250 Curassiers 400 Light-horse and all his other Forces for the defence of the Apostolick Sea and for the welfare of Italy That the other lesser Princes could not nor would not sever themselves from the authority and from joyning with the forenamed with whose joint forces the Duke of Urbane did promise to defend all their States That it was to be considered the Cesarians wanted money and that the souldiers chiefly the Dutch being much behinde hand for pay â—ere readier to mutinie and to return home then to fall upon any other Enterprise without being paid their Arrears That the State of Milan was totally exhausted and unpeopled That the name of a Spanyard Emperour's Army was already much diminished and to conclude That part of his men were sent from Lombardy to resist the Duke of Albany These things though they were very punctually represented by the Venetians and diligently listned unto by the Pope yet were they not able to infuse any hope into him or to keep him from precipitating into an agreement and from thinking of securing his affairs rather unworthily by receiving any whatsoever condition from the Conquerours then by his own forces and by the aid of other Princes and Confederates so as without so much as expecting Cesar's will or any orders from him he had begun new Treaties with the Viceroy being hereunto induced by an immoderate fear that the Emperours army should be necessitated to pass thorough the state of the Church or else thorough Tuscany and to bring either the one or the other and peradventure both of them into great trouble and danger The Viceroy listned willingly to the Treaty of agreement promoted by the Pope knowing that peace and union with him did greatly concern confirming the Victory and freeing the Army of many necessities which it then suffered under whose Authority being as he believed to be followed by the other Princes of Italy the State that was won would be secured for the future from the French Forces who could not hope to do any good in Italy without the assistance of some Italian Prince These considerations being discovered by the Ventians who knew that such a security would at last cause more danger to them and could not notwithstanding keep the Pope from making this Agreement they proceeded slowly in their Councels not making the Imperialists dispair nor yet joyning in any streighter friendship or confederacy with them but they perswaded the Pope that to the end he might be provided for all events in case the agreement should not be made good he should forthwith send Monsignor Verulano who was long before destin'd thether into Switzerland to make 1000 Switzers come in presently to the defence of the Liberty of Italy the nation being greatly ambitious of the name of Liberty and that he should with the like diligence dispatch away a Nuntio to England whether the Common-wealth would at the same time send Lorenzo Orio whom they had chosen for their Embassadour to negotiate with the King thereof who was in great esteem
with all men and who was then Moderator in the weightiest affairs of Princes touching preventing Italy from the eminent dangers threatned her by Cesar's greatness wherein they hoped to finde that King the readier because it was very like that such a Victory would purchase Charles much envie and might alienate the minde of Henry more from him who being haughty and ambitions would unwillingly see him so eminent above all others and to become Lord of Italy Yet the Venetiens finding the Pope still inclined to accord with the Imperialists they as resolving not to part wholly from his courses began to think upon some conditions and therefore the Viceroy having sent Iovan Sermento to Venice to give them an account of the victory they treated very civilly with him seeming to bear good will to Cesar and ordered Lorenzo Priuly and Ardrea Navagiero who being formerly destined to be sent to Charles had by publick directions tarried at Genua to pursue their journey and go to Spain to congratulate with him for the Victory which he had wonne and to excuse their slowness in sending their men to his Camp But Charles when he had received the news of his Armies so prosperous success though he did inwardly rejoice being inflamed with a desire of glory and Empire and hoped for better things yet shewing great moderation in his words and outward appearance he said he would as it became him to do use this signal favour which God had been pleased to bestow upon him to the service of Christendome and to universall agreement Wherefore he sent the Duke of Sesta not long after to the Pope to proffer him peace and to assure him that he very much desired the Peace and Tranquillity of Italy He made the like be done to the Venetian Senate by his Embassadour Alfonso Sauces and by his Secretary Caracciolo who was not as yet gone from Venice But the more the Cesareans seemed to desire Peace and League with the Italian Potentates at a time when they might rather expect to be desired then to desire others they gave the more suspition that their secret thoughts were pernitious to the Liberty of Italy The Venetians did therefore temporize neither concluding nor excluding these Treaties and this the rather because Propositions made unto them by the French caused them to suspend their judgements Gasparo Lormano being come at the same time to Venice being sent thither by the King's Mother who was then Queen Regent of France who shewing That the Kingdome feared no offences that it had fores sufficient and ready enough to be imploy'd in the recovery of their King desired the Senate that they would not abandon so glorious a cause and so advantagious for their Commonwealth but that they would joyn with the Lords of France to set her Son at liberty by force of Arms whereby the safety and liberty of Italy would likewise be had To which desires the Senate shewing first the great resentment they had of the Kings misfortune and that they wish'd very well to the honour and welfare of the Crown of France did not as yet give any positive answer but reply'd only that the weightiness of the proposition required time and advisedness to ground any solid resolution thereon But in the mean while the Pope who had sent the Archbishop of Capua to that purpose to Spain ratified the agreement which was formerly made with the Viceroy including the Senate of Venice if they would declare their consent thereunto within twenty days Wherefore the Senate was almost necessitated to dispatch the treaty by many though unresolved endeavours with the Emperours Embassadours and that they might accommodate the most important businesses for some others remained undecided Pietro Pesaro was sent to Milan to negotiate with the Viceroy But the French did not for all this forbear pressing their desires not having altogether quitted their hopes of making the Venetians joyn with them though the Popes authority and advice had as then drawn them to be of a contrary opinion They therefore sent the Bishop of Baiosa to Venice and Ambrogio da Fiorenza who in the name of the Queen Regent and of the whole Kingdom did upon more mature advice make better grounded proposals then the first were touching the League and freedom of the King in which respect but much more because every day new and clearer signs were discovered of Cesars ambition and of his Counsellours designs which were all bent to make him absolute Master of Milan and to put a yoke upon Italy the French Embassadours had attentive audience given them in the Colledge and the business was taken into new consideration and put into a way of Treaty At this time the Marquis of Pescara was come into Milan with 3000 Foot 200 Curassiers and a good number of light Horse and had desired the Duke that he would cause the Castle of Milan together with the like of Cremona to be delivered up unto him publiquely affirming that he was sent by Cesar to take possession of Milan in whose name all exactions expeditions and the whole administration of Government was made and he endeavour'd to make all the Cities swear Fealty unto him Wherein though the Pope did appear very much in striving to make Cesar keep his articles of confederacy and assign over the State of Milan to Duke Francisco Sforza yet it did no good sometimes one reason sometimes another being alledged for the delay thereof and amongst the rest that he had treated of delivering up the Castle of Milan to the Venetians A thing which was never so much as thought upon much less negotiated by any of the parties These things did alienate the minds of the Venetians from the Emperour dayly more and more and increased their jealousies and made them not adhibite faith to what Gaspero Contarino who was their Embassadour with Cesar did inform them of being made to do so by him that Cesars mind stood well affected to the quiet of Italy and to a general peace Therefore the Venetians seeking out an occasion to break off the treaty of agreement proposed divers difficulties the chief whereof was that the Duke of Milan being one of the principal Contractors the League could not be well concluded if it were not first known what was to become of him and of his State The dispatch whereof was thought to be cunningly delayed which made them believe that these calumnies were forged which were laid upon Sforza thereby to bereave him of his State with an intention to keep it though large promises were made that it should be given to the Duke of Bourbone or to any other that the Collegues should like of The Pope likewise beginning to discover these artificial proceedings of the Imperialists did no longer believe any thing they said Wherefore to proceed speedily against the common danger he resolved to joyn in a good and strict intelligence with the Venetians quickly since there would be some difficulties in concluding the French in the
League which would cause longer delay a thing very prejudicial to the present business The agreement was then concluded by the Pope on the one side who ingaged himself for the Church and for the Republique of Florence and on the other side by the Duke and Senate of Venice By which agreement it was said That these Potentates did joyn together to avoid the eminent dangers as they had been taught by the experience of times past and to lay more solid foundations for the quiet and safety of Italy and for their own particular States That each Prince should take upon him the protection of the other Princes States and persons that all the Confederates should run the same fortune that not any one of them should treat with any other Princes in any thing which might be repugnant hereunto that they should succour each other with 4000 Foot 400 Curassiers 300 Light Horse and with greater numbers also according as their several needs should require Hereunto was added that the Venetians should be bound to protect the greatness of the Medici and suppress such commotions as should be raised against them by any seditious Citizens and particularly to favour and assist whosoever the Pope should place in the City of Florence as head of that Government These things being thus accommodated the Pope beginning now to be more sensible of that true fear which he slighted before gave straightways order to the Marquis of Mantuâ— that he should go with the Curassiers into the parts about Parma and was very diligent in continuing the Treaty of bringing the Grisone Foot and the Switzers which being formerly begun was but slowly prosecuted And on the other side the Venetians resolved to increase their Army to the number of 10000 Foot to raise 300 light Horse more in Greece to bring other Commanders and to provide for their own safeties in every thing being much encouraged in all this by the King of England who growing jealous of Cesars greatness and perhaps envying his glory discover'd himself to be very much displeased with the success at Pavia and with the King of France his being made Prisoner affirming that he was ready to do any thing whereby to free the King and to keep Italy in safety The Italian Potentates being thus agreed there was hopes of easie coming to an union with France but the Treaty was proceeded in in a diverse manner and in somewhat a diversity of affection for the Pope thinking that he had put some stop to the present dangers by the already made confederacy and that he might enjoy better conditions from Cesar and have them better observed proceeded coolly in the agreement with the French the rather for that since the coming of the Duke of Sessa to Rome who was sent thither by Charles to attest his desire of peace and his willingness to restore the Dukedom of Milan to Francisco Sforza always provided that he should prove innocent and if he should be found guilty he would invest his Brother Maximillian Sforza thereinto But on the contrary the Venetians were very fervent in their endeavours that they might come to a speedy agreement with the French fearing lest the Spaniards proffers might tend to no other end then to break the Treaty of the League and to slacken the provisions for War And fearing likewise lest the Queen by reason of these slow and irresolute counsels of the Italian Princes witnessing either their not very great good will towards that Kingdom or their weakness in forces and that being resolved to do all that she could for the release of her Son she would at last make some conditions with Cesar with whom some Treaties to this purpose were known to be already begun Therefore the business with the French proceeded on with some diversity and uncertainty not coming to any settled conclusion The quantity and quality of the forces which the Collegues were to put together for the common service of the League was already agreed upon To wit 30000 Foot â— 4000 Curassiers and 3000 light Horse to be imploy'd in such service in Italy as might prove more advantagious The French were moreover bound to make War with Cesar upon the Confines of Spain and other articles were in Treaty when in the beginning of the year 1526. unexpected News came to Venice That an agreement was made between the Emperour and the King of France whereby the King was to be set at liberty and peace and good intelligence was to be had between these two Princes which was to be strengthened by the tye of Matrimony the King being to marry the Lady Leonora Cesars Sister and Cesar to marry the King of Portugals Sister and the Dukedom of Milan was to be given to the Duke of Burbone who was likewise to marry the Lady Renea the Kings Neece A thing which had been formerly feared but not now so much as before for that the Queen did constantly affirm that she had sent her Embassadour Alberto Carpi who was then at Rome sufficient commission to conclude the League The Pope and the Venetians were sorely troubled at these tidings but this their trouble was somewhat mitigated out of a common opinion that King Francis would not observe his articles made with Cesar. The which was the rather believed because it was said that he was departed very ill satisfied with his Treatment whilst he was a Prisoner and much worse with the agreement it self whereby to purchase his liberty he was forc'd to put Charles into the possession of Burgony To know whether he was really disposed to do thus or no and to increase this desire in him the Senate sent Andrea Rosso Secretary to the Pregadi immediately away to France to treat upon this important business and the Pope taking the like course sent Paolo Vittori thither with the same direction Nor was it hard to draw the King thereunto for at the very first speech which he had with these he complain'd very much of Cesar for having dealt severely with him in all things He said That he would not be wanting to the welfare and safety of Italy if the Italian Princes would not be wanting unto themselves Which he would quickly witness being ready to joyn with them and to make good whatsoever had been formerly negotiated and for the most part concluded with the Queen his Mother and the Kingdom that therefore they should exhort their Princes to send them sufficient authority there for they should always find him ready and constant in this point and in the same mind for what concern'd the common good He said he hoped that the King of England would be of the like intention and no less desirous to abate Cesars greatness and to provide for the defence of Italy To whom he would speedily send his Embassadours and could wish the Italian Princes would do the like for it would help the business very much that the Emperours designs might be opposed by the full consent and forces of so many
of all the confederate Princes and shewing on the one side his desire of the common good nay the necessity which had inforced him to accept of the Truce and on the other side how abusively he was used by the Imperialists desired them to intercede earnestly with their Princes that upâ—n occasion of so much danger they would not to the common prejudice abandon him and the Florentines And he entreated Dominico Ventero the Common-wealths Embassadour particularly that he would be a means to the Senate that they would give order to the Duke of Urbin to carry his Army beyond the Alpes promising that he would renew the League and inviolably observe it And the Senate though the sending of those men so far from their own State and the hazarding of them amidst the Mountains bore with it no small difficulties and though the Pope following his own counsels and several from theirs had given them occasion enough to lay aside all thought of his Interest yet continuing their first intention they gave order to the Duke of Urbin and to Luigi Pisani who when Contarini was left Commissary in Lumbardie was gone unto the Camp that they should if occasion should so require pass over the Alpes Whereupon the Imperialists being past they were quickly pursued by the French and by the Venetian Camps so as almost at the same time all the Armies were brought into Tuscanie Burbone quartered near Arezzo and the Leagues Army at Barbarino the City of Florence being as it were in the midst between these two Armies which occasioned great tumults in the City wherein the mindes of the Citizens being variously contaminated by the humour of factions some desiring a popular Government others the powers but of a few and the exaltation of the house of Medici they fell easily to civil contentions and the popular faction began already to prevail the preheminency of Government being taken out of the hands of the Medici and of their dependants and Hipolito and Alessandro both of them being the Popes Nephews were parâ—cularly declared to be Enemies to the Country But the Duke of Urbin coming opportunely to Florence in the time of these commotions who as soon as he saw Burbone bend towards Tuscany taking only 80 Gentlemen along with him hasted with the Commissary Pisani and with Frederick Bozzuole to Florence to keep the Florentines in loyalty to the League put a stop to the audacity of the young men through â—ear of his army which was not far off and reduced Affairs to their former condition without any blood-shed or prejudice by civil dissention And got thereby thus much good to the Colleagues as that the Florentines being received into protection promised adherance to the League and to maintaine in the camp at their own expences 250 Curassiers and 5000 Foot or whatsoever other numbers the Pope should please Whilst these things were in treaty with the Florentines the confederacy was renued in Rome by the other confederates whereby the Venetians were bound in a great sum of Money not to remove their men out of Tuscanie or out of the Ecclesiastical State without the Popes leave and to be the first that should send their Fleet against the Kingdome of Naples Which conditions being thought by the Senate to be too hard as indeed they were were not accepted of but their Embassadour Dominico Veniero having exceeded his Commission was sent for back to Venice and committed all' Vfâ—icio dell ' Anogaria and Francisco Pesaro was chosen Embassadour in his place before whom many had been chosen who would not accept of the imployment Alledging that they had other places of Magistracy wherefore a Law was made that during the War it might be lawful for any one to be chosen and taken out of whatsoever place or imployment But lest the Pope might think they had any thought averse to the confederacy or common good they sent immediately Secretary Andrea Rosso to Rome to ascertain the Pope of their good will to the League provided that too heavy and almost insupportable conditions were not to be laid upon them as had been especially at this time when they were to re-inforce their Army in Lumbardie Antonio da Leva being marched into the Field and the Invasion of the Landsknechts being expected But Burbone were it either that he did despair of doing any good at Florence to the defence whereof all the Confederates Forces were brought or that he did alwaies intend the other resolved to make towards Rome being thereunto invited by Romes not being provided against these dangers for the Pope vainly confiding in the Citizens and Country people great store whereof were entred into the City and Armes were given to above 5000 of them had been careless in raysing new Foot or in making use of those which he had insomuch as having given Commission to Philippo Doria to raise 3000 Foot whereof he had already raised a third part and brought them to Civita Vecchia he took no order for their coming to Rome And he made his Almnor write to Guido Rangone who was come with a good number of Foot to Otricoli commanding him not to come towards Rome without express Order Wherefore though the Duke of Urbine had given Count Guido notice of Burbone's March to the end that he might go time enough to Rome yet would he not stir having been commanded the contrary by the Pope But he did not escape being blamed for this by many who said that in such a case he ought to have obeyed the Duke of Urbine as being the Captain General of the League But Burbone having now with great resolution overcome many difficulties whereinto the Army was reduced for want of monies march'd towards Rome wherein he used such dispatch as he advanced fourty miles a day making but one only Quarter between Viterbo and Rome the great rains which in many parts had overflown the Country not making him slack his pace Before he came to Rome he sent to ask leave of the Pope to go as he said to the Kingdom of Naples being thereunto moved either by the scarcity of victuals or for fear of being surprized by the Army of the League which followed him if he should have made too long abode any where or as some thought that he might pick an occasion to do that which he had already determined But the Pope was not pleased to listen to such proposals or to give way thereunto were it either that he did now know the Enemies most intrinsecal thoughts or that he did sufficiently confide in the assistance of the people and in the Leagues Fleet which was now at Cevita Vecchia with some store of Foot But howsoever it was Burbone having somewhat refresh'd his men with victuals whâ—ch the men of Aquapendente of St Lorenzo and of some other Towns which he had taken furnish'd him with he resolved on the sixth of May to accost the Walls of Rome and to give an assault Renzo da Ceri to whom the Pope had
the streets This mortality was followed with such a sterility of the earth and with such a scarcity of corn for humane life proceeding either for want of manuring the fields or for that heavens anger was not as yet appeased as not only people of mean condition but even those that had wont to abound in wealth being reduced to great poverty and feeding upon the vilest of meats went begging their bread in such sort as this most noble country being made a receptacle of Souldiers and such as were her most capital enemies was abandoned by Citizens and by the Court and became a horrid and lothsome spectacle so as it might be truly affirmed of her Behold a City reduced to solitude and enslaved which had wont to command all Nations The End of the Fifth Book THE HISTORY OF VENICE Written by PAULO PARUTA BOOK VI. THE CONTENTS THe Venetians are much troubled at the taking of Rome and therefore resolve to relieve the Pope The Cardinals that are at liberty chuse Bullognia for their residence Charls his Manifesto to clear himself from what had befallen Rome and his actions to the contrary The Venetians assist Francisco Sforza and the Cities of Romagnia The Duke of Urbin resolves to fight the Imperialists before Rome and is hindred by Commissary Vetturi who had Process made against him for it and was at last absolved and the distastes between him and the Duke of Urbin agreed who sends his wife and son to Venice The Imperialists of Rome sack Terni and Narni The Florentines ratifie the League The Venetians send two thousand Foot to guard Bullognia The Pope enclines to the Agreement and concludes it upon dishonourable terms The Venetians provide for their State and advise upon the way of making war Lautrech's actions construed ill by the Senate who send an Ambassadour to France Pavia is taken and sackt Doria's actions with the Genueses and Fregosa's against the Adorni The unhappy success of the Venetian Fleet at Sardinia for which Antonio Marcello is punished The Venetians growing jealous of Lautrech bring their men into Lombardy Treaties of Peace with Cesar succeed not and war is intimated by the Colleagues The Pope being freed by Cesar seems neutral and desires the restitution of some Towns from the Venetians who consult upon an answer and therefore send Gaspero Contarini Embassadour to Rome The Imperialists and the French Armies in the Kingdom of Naples The prosperous success of the French The Venetian Fleet annoy the Rivers of Puglia The Duke of Brunsick in Italy who being driven away by the Duke of Urbine return's quickly to Germany The Leagues good and bad success in the Kingdome of Naples with the death of Lautrech The disbanding of the Army The Genoueses put themselves into the Emperours protection whereat the French are much displeased Provision for war in Lombardy Pavia is assaulted by the Duke of Urbine and taken together with some other Towns The Venetians are carefull to preserve the Towns of Puglia A new request made by the Pope to the Senate for the restitution of the Towns pretended to The Senates Answer and their reasons The Princes desire Peace but the means how to compass it is not found The Senate resolves upon war who grow apprehensive of the French by reason of â—heir slender provisions and therefore â—orbear not to arm themselves well Various success of Arms in the Kingdome of Naples and in the State of Genua wherein the French prosper but badly and Monsieur St. Paul is taken prisoner Wise and Valiant actions of the Duke of Urbine His skirmish with the Imperialists whereby he makes them retreat to Milan The French treat of Peace with Cesar without the knowledg of the Venetians whereat the Senate is much distasted Cesar comes into Italy The â—greement made at Cambrai wherein the Venetians are excluded The Emperours pretences to the Towns of Puglia The Turks proceedings in Hungary makes him incline to Peace The Senate is much perplext who at last resolve to restore Cervia and Ravenna to the Pope and the cities of Puglia to the Emperour whereby an universal peace is established in Italy THe Senate of Venice was greatly troubled to hear of the taking and sacking of Rome and of the Pope's imprisonment Others were moved to compassionate the miserable misfortune of that noble and flourishing City the sad condition of so many Court Prelates and chiefly that of the Pope being brought from the most supream degree of reverence and authority into much lowness and danger and was still exposed to the fury of Arms and to many injuries others were sorely grieved at these proceedings of the Spaniards who they imagined would now neither want boldness nor fortune to attempt any thing to the prejudice of the Liberty of Italy especially since there was no slight occasion of jealousie that tâ—ey would carry the Pope prisoner into pain to the end that they might afterwards by their accustomed cunning and vain pretences possess themselves of the Churches dominion and make the way easier for themselves to be lords of Italy Wherefore the Venetians moved partly out of compassion and disdain for the injuries done unto the Pope and also out of State policy not to suffer Charles his fortune to increase further to their yet greater prejudice they resolved to concurre with all their forces to the freeing of the Pope and to spare neither cost nor danger therein Wherefore they gave strict order to the Duke of Urbine their captain General and to their Commissaries Pisani and Vetturi to advance with their Army and setting all other things aside to attend the relief of the Castle where the Pope was shut up and to use all possible means to set him at Liberty and to free him from danger and that they might not be disturb'd in this enterprise they fell forthwith to the raising of new foot whereby to add unto their army which was given them in Lombardy 10000 men more that they might therewithall encounter Antonio da Leva who being march'd into the field and meeting with no obstacle was likely to grow daily stronger by the succour which he expected from Germany The Venetians were much encouraged in this their intention and their hopes of good success was encreased by the great preparations which the Kings of France and England made to fall upon as they constantly gave out the Provinces of Flanders with their Armies and Fleet whereby to force the Emperour to reduce all his forces into those parts and to abandon the affairs of Italy These things did very much rescent what had happened to Rome for which respect the King of England hastned away the Cardinal of York who was sent to the court of France to take some order for the intervene and meeting of the two Kings wherein the chief thing to be treated of was the Popes freedome and the securing of the Ecclesiastical State nor did the King of France shew himself less forward herein who had immediately sent orders to
his resolution of carrying his Army nearer Rome intending to take up his quarters in some strongly situated place where he might be ready for whatsoever event should happen He therefore betook himself to new councels which was to endeavour with less danger to bring the Pope out of the Castle to which purpose he in great haste sent Frederico da Bozzole with a Troop of Curassiers good store of light Horse and some companies of Dragoons towards the City hoping that by his unexpected coming the Pope might find some way of getting out and having so sure a guide might come to the Leagues Army Which course through several accidents proved but vain But the Army advancing still the mean while they heard that new Trenches were made about the Castle and so secure as the enterprize grew more difficult and moreover that some Spanish Foot were expected to come to Rome from Naples from whence Captain Alcone was already come with some companies Wherefore the Duke with the consent of the rest of the Commanders thought it not fit that the Army should advance any further whereof he gave the Senate speedy notice acquainting them with the cause of his stay and requiring much greater forces that he might more safely and with better hopes attempt the freeing of the Pope to effect the which he said it was requisite to have fifteen thousand Switzers in the Army a great number of Pioners and a greater Train of Artillery The Venetians were much troubled to hear this that the Pope should continue so long in so sore troubles and the rather for that some Letters were at this time read in the Senate written by the Pope himself to Guicchardine the Ecclesiastical Commissary and by him sent to Venice Wherein deploring his adversity and sad condition he entreated solicited and conjured the Confederates to procure his freedom Nor was the loss of the Leagues reputation by reason of this slowness less grievous whereby the credit of the Enemy was the more encreased and the fear dayly increased that the Pope out of meer desperation would agree upon any tearms with the Imperialists So as they knew not now whereupon to ground their hopes or how to lay their designs of War For the things that were required were difficult and asked length of time whereby things would grow worse and almost impossible to be repaired Wherefore the Senate understanding the hindrance which Commissary Veturi put in the Armies approaching near Rome took the place from him and committed him to the Office of the Avogaria that he might give an accompt of his action but his tryal being delay'd and the anger which was conceived against him being with time allay'd and it being found that his advice was not without some reason he was absolved in Court But the Senate persisting still in their first opinion did with greater efficacie then before renew their orders to their Captain General and to their Commissaries that using all possible diligence they should resume their former resolution of drawing with their Army near Rome and of indeavouring to free the Pope whereat all of them were so highly distasted as the Duke of Urbine was ready to quit the Common-wealths service But afterwards dislikes being on all sides tempered his place was confirm'd upon him for two years longer the Senate taking him and his State into their protection But to give better security and as it were a pledg of his fidelity he sent his Wife and the Prince his Son to live at Venice which the Senate took extreamly well and by Letters full of thanks and affection desired to confirm this good opinion in him shewing how great expectation every one was in of his worth upon this occasion and particularly the esteem which they themselves had not only of his valour but of his loyaltie and love towards the Common-wealth And because in this commotion of Affairs it much imported them to keep the Florentines faithful to the League the Venetians labour'd to increase the disposition which they found in them to stand to the confederacy to which the Pope had formerly agreed in their name Though after what had hapned at Rome they had driven the Medici out of the City and reduced the Government into the former popular condition The Popes Imprisonment and the Spaniards prosperous success proving dayly more grievous and vexatious to the French they betook themselves to make diligent provision for War the King said he would come himself in person to Lions that he might be nearer at hand to provide for what was requisite for the Army and that he had given order for the levying of more Foot which amounted to the number of 15000 Switzers and 10000 Italians He likewise man'd out Andrea Doria at his own expences with eight Gallies that he might be therewithal serviceable to what should be done by Seâ— and agreement being opportunely made at this time between him and the King of England he exhorted him since there were divers accidents which deferr'd the waging of War with Cesar beyond the mountains to contribute monies for the payment of ten thousand Dutch foot to the end that they might make war with him the more forceably in Italy And that there might not want a Chieftain of authority in the business he resolved to send Lautrech into Italy to be General of the League who might command in chief over all the Armies and the Venetians to honour him chose Pietro Pisaro Procurator of S. Mark for their Embassadour who was to meet him as soon as he should be come into Italy and to be continually assistant with him Whilst affairs were ordering thus the Imperialists which were in Rome although their numbers were much encreased by the Spanish Foot which were lately come from Naples by Sea to that City so as there was about four and twenty thousand foot in the Imperial Army yet did they employ their time idely in making use of the booty which they had got not making any further progress the Commanders authority not being sufficient to make them go out of the City nor to curb their licentiousness only some few Dutch Foot went out of Rome by whose going it was thought that all the Army would rise and sacked Terni and Narni without passing any further though the Leagues Army were retreated for that despairing of the business of Rome the Venetians had caused their Army which was followed by the Marquis of Saluzzo with the French to retreat to the confines of the Senesi to secure the Florentine affairs according to the ratification of the League upon the obligation of the Florentines maintaining five thousand foot in the Camp at their own cost in which they shewed themselves the more ready for that they were the most exposed to danger for the Imperial Commanders threatned to turn their forces upon them being incensed for that having in the beginning of the Pope's adversity given them some intimation that they would adhere unto the Emperour they did
Enemy out of those Confines and by getting safe possession of the State of Milan Moreover it might be hoped that by keeping the Forces of the Colleagues joyn'd together and near at band they might at last draw the Pope into the League the which had been several times attempted in vain Monsieur de S. Paule and the other French Commanders were of another opinion viz That the business of Naples was not to be abandoned losing thereby their reputation both with the people and with the Enemy shewing amongst other things how necessary it was to keep the Imperialists imploy'd in the Kingdom of Naples so as they might not come and joyn with Antonio da Leva whereby growing very strong they might settle themselves in the possession of both those States In this diversity of opinion they pitch upon a way which might serve both their desires to wit not to give over the affairs of Naples totally but howsoever to intend chiefly the business of Lombardy wherefore since some Towns in Pâ—glia held yet for the confederates and were well affected to the Venetians and to the French it was resolved they should make head there and reinforce their men that they might make some other attempt and keep the Imperialists in fear and jealousie The Venetian Senate did therefore order their Commissary at Sea to go with his Fleet into Puglia to put very good Garrisons into all the Towns which held for the Commonwealth and for the King of France and to fall upon taking the Castles in Brandizzo and on the other side Renzo da Ceri and the Prince of Melfi were to pass into those Sea coasts with five thousand foot for the transporting whereof from Ancona to Puglâ—a the Venetians sent eight Gallies and other Vessels It was also resolved that the Fleet should be encreased and reinforced that they might make some other attempt in the Kingdom and keep the Imperialists busied in several places To which purpose the Venetians promised to lend the King twelve Gallies The Senate did moreover very much solicite the other Confederates as the Florentines and Duke of Ferrara that beaâ—ing patiently the adverse fortune about Naples they would seek to provide against other dangers by lending ready and stout assistance towards the renewing of the War in Puglia whereby the enemies forces would be kept far from their Territories being employ'd in defending their own affairs Whereunto these Princes shewed themselves very forward the Florentines offering moreover to keep up a body of men in Tuscany and the Duke of Ferrara an other at Modena to provide for all occurrences But as for the affairs of Lombardy and the State of Milan wherein the forces remained entire it was resolved to advance towards Milan and both the Armies being come to Landriano the Commanders thought it not fit to fall then upon the expugning of Milan which would be a thing too hard to effect Leva being entred thereinto with his Army after he had fetch'd much victuals into the City therefore they took an other course they fell upon the enterprize of Pavia which they thought they might be successful in for that there was but a weak Garrison there of only one thousand foot wherefore the Confederates Army marched speedily thither to prevent all impediments which they might receive from Leva if he should be aware of their march they encamp'd before it and began to play furiously upon the walls the Duke of Urbine having with much perswasions got some pieces of Cannon to be brought along and carried over the River Tesino So as a great Battery being soon begun they prepared to give an assault wherein the first place falling to the Venetians lot it hapned that whilst they were ordering their affairs some averseness thereunto appeared in the Switzers foot But the Duke of Urbine having sorely wounded oneâ— of their Captains with his own hand who said that there was not any one who could make his Souldiers move but himself and at the same instant turning the Cannon upon them he brought them all to be obedient so as a hot assault being given wherein the Duke of Urbine was one who together with some of his Curassiers all of them being on foot put himself into the first ranks and assaulting such Bastions as were best defended got the praise of being most nobly bold The Town was taken and sack'd and the most of the defendants slain and soon after the Castle also yeilded whereinto Galleazzo da Birago together with such souldiers as were left alive retreated they had their lives given them the Dutch foot being permitted to return to Milan and the Italians to return to their own homes The getting of Pavia proved very advantagious and of great credit to the League not only in its own respect but because it was accompanied with the quick surrender of Novara and of other neighbouring Towns whereby the enemy who received much victuals from thence for the nourishment of the Army which was in Milan was much incommodated The Venetian Senate was much rejoyced hereat hoping that it might in the future somwhat counterpoise their late loss at Naples they commended and thanked Monsieur de St Paul for it exhorting him to prosecute the prosperity which was promised by this good beginning not despairing but by his happy conduct they should get Milan and recover Naples The alteration in Genua was very unwelcome news to France wherefore the King sent an express Commission to Monsieur de St Paul that before all other things he should mind and endeavour the returning of that City into her former condition to the relief whereof the three thousand foot which were thereunto designed refused to go for want of having received their pay which put Trivultio into so great difficulties as he protested he would surrender unless he received some speedy succour Thus the affairs of the League which began to be a little refresh'd fell quickly back into great straits for as the opportunity which was offered of getting Milan was very great by reason of the rescent reputation won at Pavia and through the sufferings whereunto Leva's Arms was reduc'd but chiefly by the excessive and unsupportable Taxes imposed by the Imperialists upon the people of Milan which had made them ready to mutiny and to throw off the yoke of so severe servitude so was it requisite that to the â—ffecting thereof they should make use of all their forces together and to beleaguer that great City with two camps and yet Monsieur de St Paul setting his heart upon the relief of Genua did not only refuse to go to Milan but prest the Duke of Urbine very much to go along with him and to carry his Venetian forces to Genua that they might proceed therein the more securely to which the Venetian Senate would not consent since by sending their forces so far off they should not only lose all the advantage of their victory and make the Duke of Milan despair but should expose Bergamo and
intent upon their own advantage then agreed with the accommodation of so many great differences and to putting an end to Wars of so long duration It was known that the King of France was very jealous of the Pope so as he did neither believe much what he said nor did he much confide in him Holding all his proposals to be doubtful and uncertain Therefore he treated apart with the Venetians that they would reorder their Forces by Sea and by Land seeming not to be at all discouraged for what had hapned at Naples as a thing which had fallen out by misfortune and not through any cowardise of the Souldiery Wherefore he was more desirous then ever to renew the Wars in Italy As for the Emperour though he said he would come into Italy to take upon him the Crown of the Empire and to procure peace yet he made so great preparation for War as it appeared he intended not to do as he said especialy since his desire of making himself Master of the State of Milan was so very well known And as for the Pope who was to take upon him the chief care herein he still retained the desire of recovering not only the Towns in Romagna but also Modena and Regio and likwise he longed to revenge himself for the injuries done him by the Florentines and to replace his Nephews in their pristine greatness and dignity in Florence which were not things to be done without War And the Venetians though they had been so many years involved in Wars wherein they had already spent five Millions of Gold and that therefore they desired to give some ease and refreshment to themselves and to their Subjects yet they persevered resolutely not to abandon the Duke of Milan not to permit that that State should fall again into Cesar's power nor would they easily part with the Towns in Puglia and Romagna unless upon the establishing of universal peace upon fair and rational conditions Thus did the Princes at this time steer their thoughts and actions and this was mens opinion touching â—uture War and Peace This mean while the News increased of Cesar's coming into Italy for which great preparation of Shiping was made at Barcellona and the Arch-Duke Ferdinand came to Ispruch and raised much moneys in the Dyets taking foot Souldiers into pay to send them for Italy to serve his Brother giving out that he would assault the States of Venice Yet at the same time divers treaties of agreement were propounded to the Senate by Andrea Doria and by some other Imperialists shewing that the Emperour had very good thoughts towards the Common-wealth and offering to negotiate peace wherein the Venetians proceeded very cautiously fearing lest this might be a trick to seperate the French by these jealousies from the freindship of the Common-wealth so as they slackned not their preperation for War for the Senate would depend upon themselves and treat of Peace with Sword in hand and with honour The time of the Duke of Urbines command being at an end they continued his imployment for three years longer with the increase of ten thousand Crowns a year pay and with as many Curassiers as made up those that were before under his command two hundred Moreover a particular Troop of fifty Curassiers was given to his son Guido Ubaldo who was likewise taken into the Commonwealths service and had a stipend of a thousand crowns a year given him Gianus Maria Fregoso was made Governour General of the Venetian Militia in reward of his loyalty and worth And because the Duke of Urbine had many occasions to be absent from the camp as he was particularly at this time and that it was thought fit for the publick service that some person of great authority should always be in the Army Antonio Alberti was sent to him Savio degli Ordini with Orders that he should go speedily from Brescia where he then was and come to the Army in which journey for his greater honour he was accompanied by the said Alberti Other chief places of the Militia were disposed of to others Count Gaiazzo was made General of the Light Horse and Antonio da Castello Captain of the Artillery Hercoles Fregoso Farfarella da Ravenna and other Commanders were taken again into the Commonwealths service A good sum of money was sent to the camp to Commissary Navi with Orders to raise new Foot and to fill up the companies Nor were they less vigilant about Maritime Affairs Girolamo Pesaro was created Captain General at Sea and Andrea Pesaro being chosen a little before Commissary of the Fleet and Vicenso Iustiniano Captain of the Bastard Gallies they were both of them ordered to prepare for Sea there were other ten chosen for Governours to arm the ten Gallies which were disarm'd the preceding Winter so as the Common-wealth had above fifty Gallies at Sea and though by the Articles of confederacy they were not bound to furnish out above sixteen Gallies they promised notwithstanding to adde four more thereunto so as there should be twenty for the service of the League whereof Girolamo Contarini was made Captain And because the Duke of Milan and Monsieur di S. Paule who were desired to increase the number of their Foot according to their Articles excused themselves for want of monies the Senate resolved to lend the French twelve thousand Duckets and eight thousand to the Duke of Milan But the Venetians did chiefly desire and pray the King of France that he would not be wanting to the Colleagues upon so important an occasion since he had found them all so affectionate to him and so constant in prosecuting the War And truly these remembrances were no more then necessary for all the bad success of the French in the affairs of Italy arose from their slowness in making provisions and from too much confiding in themselves the French being naturally given to promise all good success to themselves at the first beginning which makes them easily undertake any business but they are not constant in the prosecution and but little careful in providing necessaries out of the hopes they have of bringing it soon to an end measuring it often more according to their own desires then according to the truth Monsieur de S. Paule was reduced to want of men monies and almost of all things requisite to maintain War in Italy Nor was there any preparations seen for doing any thing beyond the Mountains which the King had so often promised to do And yet it was now more necessary then ever to do both these and that with powerful forces to keep the Emperour from coming into Italy either by preparing strongly to resist him there or else by keeping him imploy'd in defending Spain and in muniting the heart of his Dominions They therefore told the King that it was a thing becoming him and the forces of that powerful Kingdom to interrupt Cesars designs and to bring him by force of Arms to an agreement and to the restoring
they might doe well to assault some of those Towns which were possess'd by the Imperialists to do the which those of Otranto who were already up in arms offered themselves if they might be assisted and thereby make the Enemie raise their camp and betake themselves to defend their own affairs But this advice being communicated to Renzo da Ceri he thought it would be better to take in as many Souldiers as they could into Monopoli from whence they might sally out at unawares and assault the Enemy within their camp their Army being become very weak by the departure of the Italian foot and by the weariness of the Dutch To this purpose the Prince of Melfi being come to Monopoli with 2000 foot whom the Marquis had labourd very much both by perswasions and offers though all in vain to draw over to side with the Imperialists The Besieged sallying out one morning early before the Sun-rising assaulted the Enemies Camp furiously on several sides and fighting in the Trenches though they could not overcome them did them notwithstanding much prejudice for they were often forced to send fresh Souldiers to supply their places who were slaine But they could not as yet make them dislodg their scituation and their Rampiers being very strong But not long after the Marquis understanding that the Venetians were preparing great store of Gallies to bring more Souldiers and Amunition into the Town desparing of any good success he gave over that enterprise and retreated with his men to Conversa and so to Naples Thus the Confederates began to have some better hepes by reason of the Marquis his retreat and by the valient defence of Monopoli So as many Barrons and others repenting that they had adhered to the Imperial party grew ready for a new rebellion which incouraged the confederates to make some new attempt Wherefore the Venetian Senate finding that their Fleet was like to ly long idle at Corfu expecting the coming of the French Fleet whereof they heard no certain tidings and which was very slow in preparing they ordered the General to pass into Puglia whither being come with a good many Gallies he lay before Brandizzi hoping that by reason of the affection which the Inhabitants bore to the Venetians he might easily win that Town as he did And receiving it upon Articles preserved it from sacking and from being injured by the Souldiers and he made Giovan Francisco Iustiniano Governour for the Town to keep it for the Common-wealth He fell then suddenly to besiege Castelli the particular care whereof was committed to Camillo Orsino who playing upon it and begirting it on all sides had brought it to a bad condition yet hoping to see the Emperours Fleet quickly in those Seas they held out This mean while the Venetian Fleet infested the Sea even to Capo d' Otranto to the great prejudice of the Imperialists In this action Simone Romano was slain a bold and valiant man and one who had done much service to the League and won much praise to himself in many actions At this time General Pesaro fell very sick wherefore he got leave of the Senate to retire unto Corfu to be cured and Vicenza Cappello was chosen in his place to retaine the same degree and Authority untill Pesaro should be well Who recovering sooner then was expected Capello came not as then unto the Fleet but the next place was reserved for him upon the first occasion Things being in this condition the Prince of Orenge knowing that the confederates forces were not so weak as to be wholly driven out of the Country nor so strong as that they could do any thing of much importance or were it that Cesar desired that the Popes satisfaction should be preferr'd before all other respects that he might have him his friend and confederate when he should come into Italy resolved after he had put Garrisons into the most considerable places to go with the rest of his men towards Perugia to drive Malatesta Baglione out of that City and then to go into Tuscany to put the Medici into their Country again Wherefore the Duke of Urbine apprehending that these men would fall upon his State went suddenly from the Army to look unto his own affairs upon this so urgent occasion The Venetians were much displeased with this the Generals absenting himself at so unseasonable a time both in respect of their own great Interests and for fear lest the French growing either really jealous or picking some fained suspition out of this accident would grow the cooler in making their provisions for War The Senate therefore resolved to send Nicolo Tiepolo forthwith to the Duke who was intended to have been sent unto him to the camp to acquaint him with the new conduct of affairs and earnestly to intreat him in the name of the publick to return immediately to the Army and that he might the more willingly do it they sent him money to raise three thousand Foot who were to guard his State But there was no need thereof at that time for Orenge understanding that the Count de l ' Aquila and Camillo Orsino called Pardo having assembled many of their neighbours together were come to Câ—muli and that their numbers increasing every day it was feated they would make some considerable commotion changed his mind and would not as then go out of the Kingdom fearing some greater insurrection by reason of the many extortions which the people suffer'd under who in that respect began to hate and detest the name of a Spaniard Wherefore he thought it best first to suppress these reserving his former purpose till another time this suspition being over the Duke of Urbine came forthwith to the Army and as soon as he came resolved to march therewith to Milan Monsieur de S. Paule having let him know that he meant to do so too They were hereunto invited by the Imperials straits and by the good success of the French for though two thousand Spanish Foot were come to Milan who were first intended for the relief of Genua the Genueses refusing to receive them their inconveniences were as much increased by their coming as their forces for they were to be paid and fed though there was great scarcity of monies And on the contrary many Towns beyond Tassino had surrendered themselves at this time to Monsieur de S. Paule so as almost all that Country was reduced to his great honour and conveniency under his power Both these Armies met at Borgo S. Martino five miles distant from Milan where having long debated how they were to prosecute that expedition it was resolved that they should incamp about the City of Milan with two Armies to the end they might begirt as much of the wall as they could and weaken the Enemy by making them defend several places at once But the Commanders were not so forward not diligent as was requisite to effect this advice for the French said there were fewer Foot in the Venetian
safe by reason of the particular agreement made with Cesar at Barcellona which till now was kept secret nay he thought to make use of the Imperial forces to satisfie his desire and particular ends in placing his Nephews in their former power and authority in Florence as it was agreed upon before between him and Cesar. Wherefore for the Emperours greater honour he sent three of the principal Court Cardinals to meet him at Genâ—a and to be assistant to him The Florentines who were in the greatest and most present danger sent also their Embassadours soon after to Cesar to curry-favour with him and to understand his will excusing themselves for having entred into confederacy against him for that it behooved them therein to follow the Popes authority and commandment and shewing themselves ready to adhere unto him But these men having brought no publick commission to accommodate the differences which depended between the City and the Pope and Cesar continuing firm in his resolution to keep his promise made to the Pope and to give him all manner of satisfaction this Embassie proved to no purpose and their affairs continued in their former condition Other Princes of Italy sent also their Embassadours desiring friendship and fair correspondence only the Senate of Venice persevered in their opinion of not coming to any agreement with Cesar unless forc'd by necessity Not but that the Venetians would have been as glad of concord as the rest but because they thought that Cesar intended nothing less then the Liberty of Italy and that his end was to bring things to such a condition as that all the rest should receive Laws from him Wherefore they thought that to appear humble and submiss served only to puff him up the more and to confirm him in his desire and hopes of commanding all Italy They therefore thought it not fit to send their Embassadours to him then but they gave way that the Duke of Millan who desired their advice in this point as by conventions he was bound to do might send his Embassadours because they thought it might become him to do so who was a Vassal of the Empire and that it might turn to the common good by opening a way upon that occasion to the accommodation of his own particular differences upon which the conclusion of the universal peace did chiefly depend whereof since no well grounded hopes did as yet appear the Venetians who saw themselves left almost alone to undergo all the danger betook themselves with all industry and diligence to provide for all such things as might secure their State the best they could upon this so important occasion They raised new foot to increase their Army and their Garrisons which between the one and the other arose to the number of fifteen thousand They made Francisco Pasquillio their Commissary General on Terra firmâ— giving him a particular charge to survey the strong Holds and to provide all necessaries for them They took divers chief Commanders into the Commonwealths pay amongst which Sigismond Malatesta together with a thousand foot and two hundred Light Horse And because the Dutch foot advanc'd already in great numbers from Bolzano Commissary Giovan Contarini and Cesare Fregoso were put into Verona with a good Garrison And because the greatest concernment was to keep the other confederate Princes of Italy as firm to them as they could the Senate failed not to minde the Florentines thereof to praise their constancy to exhort them to defend their Country and the liberty thereof promising to give them what assistance the times would permit them to do and particularly to make their men enter into the Territories of Piacâ—nza and Parma as soon as Cesar should be gone from thence so to draw the Imperialists who were in Tuscany to the defence of those Cities They used the like indeavours with the Duke of Ferara sending Marc Antonio Veniero Embassadour to him who was to witness the constancy of the Common-wealth in their resolution of defending the Common liberty and their particular good inclination towards the Duke and his State whereunto as they were joyned by neighborhood and many other respects so would they never shun running the same fortune with him That therefore they desired to understand what his pleasure and opinion was as knowing that in times of such difficulty a great esteem was to be put upon his friendship and advice But they chiefly laid before him the danger of the Florentines saying that as they were common to them all so they ought all to assist them that they should remember what the Popes desires were which would be the more inflamed by what of prosperity should befall Florence and that the Pope would the more molest his State and the like of all others unto which he laid any just pretentions The Duke seemed to take these Memorandums very well and promised many things and particularly that he would maintain a good body of men which he was raising about Modena which should not only be for his own defence but for the service of all the Confederates At this time the Agreement made at Cambrai was published wherein as it was long before commonly said none of the Confederates were comprehended only place was reserved for the Venetians to be admitted thereinto if within a short space the differences betwen them and Cesar should be reconciled which was nothing but a meer complement they being in effect totally excluded since the greatest difficulties remained still undecided The King of France was obliged amongst other things to make the Towns in Puglia which were possess'd by the Venetians to be restored to the Emperour which if they should refuse to doe he was to declare himself their Enemy and help the Emperour to recover them by force Which Article being to be put in execution the King sent his Embassadours to Venice to require the Senate that they would cause the Towns which they possess'd in Puglia to be delivered up to Cesar as he was bound to do by the conventions at Cambray alledging that he did this in observance of the League made at Cugnack wherein that was comprehended And he further added that he did so much rely upon the affection which the Common-wealth had always shewn to the Crown of France as if they were not bound thereunto by Agreement he was perswaded he might obtain it of them by way of meer gratification the occasion and thing it self being of so great waight and that without it he could not have his Sons who were to succeed him in his Kingdom set at liberty by Cesar. To this the Senate answered That they did still continue that good affection towards the King and Crown of France as they had done for many years past and would still do so for the future the Common-wealth being almost indissolvably knit fast to the Kingdom out of many common interests That they could not deny but that they had very much desired their Common-wealth might have been comprehended in the
weak foundations his own affairs stood and how impossible it was for him to maintain an Army and tarry any longer in Italy That it is a general rule what is acceptable and advantagious to an Enemy is to be shunn'd as that which may produce contrary effects to the adverse party That this which had an appearance of humanity and looked like a desire of peace and quietness was only a piece of cunning in the Imperialists to conceal their weakness and to make it be believed that they intended the common good when they did only endeavour their own advantage But suppose said these men that we may do well for the present tâ— agree with Cesar it will be fitting at least to expect what the result will be of the convention at Bullognia where Cesars mind and intentions may be better discovered especially touching the settlement of the Dutchy of Milan upon which the best grounded resolution of peace ought to depend by the obligation of ancient and new confederacy and by the disposition of the Commonwealth her self introduced by many weighty Interests That it was also probable that the Pope though he were not very well pleased with them as touching the towns in Romagna would not notwithstanding for the Churches interest and his own break the friendship and peace between the Emperour and the Commonwealth the safety and honour whereof did finally result to the accommodation and grandezza of the Apostolique See as that also the present peace would make for the business of Florence which the Pope did then so fervently endeavour to the end that all other respects and jealousies being laid aside Cesar might for the Popes satisfaction turn his Forces into those parts and bring them to a sooner and a more certain end These reasons wrought much upon the minds of many men who being now wonted to War were unwilling to lay down Arms unless with great honour and safety to the Commonwealth insomuch as they did for that time forbear the chusing of Commissioners to send to Mantua to treat of peace and resolved to send Secretary Andrea Resso to the Marquis To return their thanks for his offer and for the good Will which he seemed to bear to the Commonwealth excusing themselves for that they could not at the present resolve upon a Treaty since the Emperour and the Pope were to meet quickly at Bullognia to find out an accommodation for all the affairs of Italy and for that Bishop Bosoniences the Popes Nuntiâ— had interposed himself in that business and particularly in what appertained to the Commonwealth This mean while the Pope being gone from Rome went to Spoleti and from thence to Bullognia to expect the Emperour who came thither some few days after the five and twentieth of October which was the day the Pope entred that City As soon as they met the Treaty of Peace began both of them seeming desirous to settle Italy in a firm condition of quiet The first and most important businesses to be accorded were those which concerned the Duke of Milan who after many former practises and endeavours for which the Protonotary Caracciole and Don Garziadi Padiglia were gone with several propositions from Piacenza to Cremona resolved having formerly obtained a safe conduct and being councell'd so to do by the Venetians who for his greater honour sent their Embassadour Mark Antonio Veniero to accompany him to go himself to Cesar in Bullognia for one thing which made the business more difficult was that Cesar took it ill that Francisco Sforza should not humble himself to him as it became a Vassal of the Empire to do and that he did negotiate his business either too arrogantly or at least distrusting too much Cesars either justice or clemency The first thing which disturb'd this Treaty which was before brought near a conclusion was that the Imperialists would have the Cities of Pavia and Alessandria delivered up into their hands as pledges for the observancy of what should be agreed upon which Sforza following herein the counsel and opinion of the Senate who had put great Garrisons into those Cities and had lent the Duke ten thousand Ducats to maintain them utterly refused to do This demand having renewed in him and in the Venetians their former jealousies that the Imperialists desired to appropriâ—te the State of Milan unto themselves wherefore the Pope desired those Cities might be deposited into his hands which the Duke said he could not do without the consent of the Venetians alledging that it would be better to refer the discussion of his cause to the convention at Bullognia And thus he spun out the time without coming to any conclusion When Sforza was come to Bullognia where he was graciously received by the Emperour his business was brought to this conclusion the Pope interceding therein to whom Cesar had promised that he would not dispose of the State of Milan without his consent that his cause should be decided by Justice Whereunto the Duke did more willingly consent then to any other proposal to shew that he relied upon his own Innocence and upon Cesar's Justice But the Venetian Senate seeing that the agreement with the Duke of Millan which had been the chief cause of beginning the war and of the continuance thereof was in a fair way of being concluded sent Commissions to Gaspero Contarini who was their Embassadour with the Pope to treat and conclude of peace if they could agree upon particulars they having been very much and with great expressions of love solicited thereunto by the Pope who promised to interpose both his authority and favour with Cesar concerning this Treaty The Embassadour Contarini when he met the Emperour at his first entrance into Bolognia was very graciously received by his Majestie but nothing was as yet treated of saving general civilities which shewed a good inclination to friendship and peace When the Embassadour had made it known that he had Commission from the Senate to treat of an agreement and that therefore he desired to know upon what tearms it was to be made The Emperour seeming to correspond very much in a will and desire to peace deputed the Lord Chancellour Granville and Monsieur di Prato to this negotiation in which Treaty the Pope himself would intervene At first there was great hopes of comming to a speedy agreement but when they drew near a conclusion new doubts and difficulties were started which made it be believed that but little sincerity was intended therein chiefly for that though many endeavours had been had the Imperialists could not be brought to remove the Dutch Foot from the State of Venice who continued still to the number of about ten thousand in the Territories of Brescia and did prejudice the Country much And moreover twenty five Gallies being parted from Cevita Vecchia to go for Naples it was publickly said that these together with four more which were in that Haven were ordered to go into Puglia So as all expences and provisions
Walls of Florence all the other parts of Italy were free and quiet the Pope the Emperour Ferdinand King of the Romans and the Senate of Venice having at last ratified an Agreement upon these conditions That the Venetians should relinquish the Cities of Ceruia and Ravenna the Apostolique See and to the Emperour Trani Monopoli and whatsoever they were possess'd of in Puglia that all other Cities Towns places which were as then in their possession should remain under the Jurisdiction and Dominion of the Common-wealth which was to enjoy them peacefully and quietly That the Inhabitants who were in those Cities and who had adhered to the Venetians might be suffered either to tarry there or to goe elsewhere and that wheresoever they should be they might injâ—y the goods which they possess'd in their countries and particularly that it might be lawful for such Venetian Citizens as had any possessions in these Territories not only to enjoy their Incomes but to carry them whithersoever they should please without being subject to any prohibition or Tax That the Venetian Citizens should also have all those priviledges and immunities confirm'd unto them throughout the whole Kingdom of Naples which they had before enjoy'd by the concession of the former Kings and that generally free and safe abode and commerce should be allowed to all the Subjects of the Confederate Princes in all their several Dominions and that they should be well dealt withal and have Reason and Justice done them as if they were of the same Country where for the present they did inhabit or negotiate That all past faults should be forgiven to those who during the time of War after that Maximilian took first up Arms against the Common-wealth for having followed the Imperial faction or had either been accus'd and condemned for any thing thereunto belonging and that they should be restored to their Countries and goods except such goods as were formerly confiscated for which the Venetians promised to pay yearly 5000 Ducates And that all faults should be forgiven to Count Brunoro di Gambara by name and that he should be received into favour who was then the Emperours Chamberlain That moreover the Venetians should pay unto the Emperour for what remain'd unpaid of 200000 Ducates promis'd at the agreement made the year 1523. 25000 Ducates within two Moneths and the rest which should appear to be due within one year following But upon express condition that before the disbursment of these monies those Towns and places should be restored to the Common-wealth which were thereunto due upon the same Articles wherein if any dispute should arise the same should be determined by two Arbitrators and one Umpire Moreover the Venetians were contented to gratifie Cesar with 100000 Ducates more within six Moneâ—hs and that because the rights of the Patriarch of Aquilegia were reserved in the Diet at Worms wherein he pretended to be injured in his jurisdiction by Ferdinand of Austria that this cause should be decided by two Arbitrators and one Umpire to the end that the Patriarch might be restored to what should be found due unto him and that this agreement might not only aim at the present peace of Italy but to provide for the future quiet and security thereof each of the aforesaid Princes were bound to enter into a perpetual League for the defence of each other in as much as concern'd the Estates in Italy And it was particularly expressed that the Venetians and Francisco Sforza Duke of Milan for whom the Emperour promised and stood bound should alwaies have each of them five hundred Curassiers in readiness and that when either the Dukes state or the Commonwealth should be assaulted by any Forraign Army each should be bound to assist the other with eight hundred Curassiers wherein the foresaid five hundred were to be comprehended with five hundred Light Horse and six thousand Foot together with a sufficient Train of Artillery ammunition and all the expences thereunto belonging during the war and that neither of them should grant passage victuals or any other accommodation to such as should intend prejudice to either of them but should use all the means they could to hinder them And on the other side the Duke of Milan and the Venetians were bound to defend the Kingdom of Naples from any assault that should be thereupon made by any Christian Princes with sixteen Gallies at their own expence In this capitulation all the friends and confederates of these Princes were comprehended so as they should not prove enemies to any of the chief contractors and the Common-wealths of Genua Sienna and Lucca the Duke of Savoy the Marquis of Mantua and Marquis of Monferrat were particularly nominated by the Pope by the Emperour and by Ferdinando and by the Venetians Antonio Maria Montefeltro Duke of Urbine But with this difference that the Venetians were not bound to defend the States of the others though they were nominated and the Duke of Urbine was comprehended in his person and State under the same conditions as were the chief contractors as having a dependancy upon the Commonwealth and as being by her taken into protection Touching the Duke of Ferara it was declared that he was only understood to be comprehended with the rest when he should have accommodated the differences which were between him and the Apostolique See Thus after so many vexations and long Wars things were setled and accommodated and a certain and secure peace was made to the great comfort of the Subjects and the no less praise of the Princes All men thought that this peace and agreement amongst the Christian Princes was made at a very opportune time so as they might joyntly make head against Soliman who being wholly set upon the glory of War and being encouraged by the discords of the Christian Princes was come with his forces against their Kingdoms threatning ruine For though he was forced to rise from before the Walls of Vienna and freed her so from danger at that time by reason that the Winter came on and that he had no great Train of Artillery as also for that the City was defended by very many valiant Souldiers yet he declared that he would return the next Spring with greater forces to assail that City and other Towns in Germany Soliman at his departure from those consines declared Iohn to be King of Hungary shewing that he aimed chiefly at the praise of valour and generosity He also made Luigi Gritti chief Treasurer of that Kingdom who was natural son of Andrea Gritti Duke of Venice born at Constantinople whilst Andrea being a young man was there upon his own private affairs Luigi proved to be a very ingenious man endowed with many noble qualities so as getting first into favour with Ebrahim the chief Bashaw and of supream authority in that Court and afterwards by his means into the like of Soliman he had done the Commonwealth very good service in their last troubles by keeping them in friendship with
faults forgiven them and others had other favours done them After he was crowned Cesar went to Mantua where being received very magnificently by the Marquis Frederick da Gonsaga in memorial of which civil hospitality the Emperour made him a Duke and being to pass from thence through the State of the Commonwealth that he might go into Germany by the way of Trent the Senate ordered Paolo Nani and Giovan Dolfino who were Commissaries General on Terra firma and likewise Giovan Moro who was Captain of Padua and Pietro Grimani Captain of Vicenza to meet Cesar with an honourable assembly of Gentry at Villa Franca which lyes upon the confines of Verona and Mantua and to wait upon him as long as he should be in the States Territories And they charged the Rectors of Verona that they should be very careful in providing victuals and all things necessary for the Court and Souldiers and particularly that they should present Cesars self in the name of the Commonwealth with excelâ—ent wines fish venison sweet-meats and with every thing else of rarity which could be found for his refreshment Thus Cesar past on with all his people being accompanied by a great many Lords and Princes Embassadours and amongst the rest by Nicolo Tiepolo who as hath been said was appointed to stay as Leiger Embassadour with him and crossing over the Territories of Verona without entring into the City where double Guards were placed at the gates and about the castles he went to Chiusa As these things did increase confidence amongst these Princes and establish peace and friendship so it was suspected that they would beget jealousie in Soliman that the Commonwealth would joyn with other Christian Princes against him which might be occasioned by many speeches that were spread abroad that these Princes had made peace to the end that they might march with their forces joyntly against the Turks and oppose Soliman's too deep and dangerous designs upon Christendom Who having been already before Vienna threatened to return with more powerful forces and being made to hope for better things by his recent victories promised to himself succeâ—sful progress in Germany Some convention of Cardinals deputed thereunto and wherein the Embassadours of other Princes did intervene were made at Bullognia that they might think how to govern themselves in their taking up of Arms against the Turks and though the Venetian Embassadours did not intervene at there Treaties and that no result was had therein yet fame which always useth to amplifie had brought greater tidings to Constantinople then were true So as this course was blamed by those that were wise â—or experience shew'd that whilst they consulted in vain how to remedy our mischiefs they drew on greater and more certain dangers incensing Soliman the more and inforcing him to make greater preparations for War The Senate being advertised of these the Turks suspicions by Luigi Gritti who as Embassadour to Iohn King of Hungary had attended Soliman when he parted from those confines to Constantinople and considering that they might be of very evil consequence to the affairs of the Commonwealth if they were any longer credited by Soliman and his Bashawes they resolved to send an Embassadour to Constantinople who was to give an account of the peace which they had made with Cesar and of the reasons which perswaded them thereunto and who was afterwards to affirm that the Senate was resolved to continue constant in their friendship unto the family of the Ottomans and in their commerce with that Nation and that if the Embassadour should find the Turks desirous thereof he should again ratifie the ancient articles of peace The Senate thought it the fitter for them to do this because Soliman a little before as he went to Belgrade had sent Ibraim his Embassadour to Venice to give an account of his success in Hungary and particularly of his having re-placed their ancient friend King Iohn in his Kingdom He had also sent another Chiaus to Venice upon the occasion of the solemnity of circumcising two of his Sons inviting them to send their Embassadours who might be present at the doing of it and at the same time in witness of his good affection to the Commonwealth he had presented them with 100000 pound weight of Salt-peter hearing that they were in great need thereof Tomaso Mocenico was chosen for this Embassie who began his journey a few days after and came very opportunely to Constantinople in respect of the aforesaid considerations for a Cruzado being published the same and expectation whereof was the greater because the Preachers by the Popes directions had earnestly exhorted the people in their pulpits to contribute monies readily and cheerfully to the war against the Infidels These things had raised no light suspitions in Soliman that the Venetians had conspired against him together with the other Christian Princes after the confederacy at Bolognia wherefore looking the more narrowly into all their former actions Soliman complain'd that the Venetians upon the making of peace had contributed monies to the Princes of the House of Austria who being his Enemies might be thereby the better inabled to make war against him Hereunto was likewise added that he took it ill at the Venetians hands who professed friendship to him that he had not understood any thing of a business of so great moment save only the conclusion But these rumours which were already spred abroad amongst the Bashaws and other chief Personages were quieted at the coming of the Embassadours and friendship was readily renewed and re-confirmed upon the former articles The Embassadours were afterwards present at the festival of the circumcision which was performed with great pomp and cost in all which shews the Embassadours had honourable places provided for them and they according to the custom of that Nation and of that solemnity did present many rich vestments to the Grand Signeur and other things of price amongst which a fair Unicorns horn a thing which Soliman had much desired and which was very welcome to him In the time of these sports and festival Soliman who was born to effect great things was full of weighty and important thoughts He discoursed often with his Bashaws of raising an Army to return into Hungary and into Germany to abate the forces of the Austrian Princes towards which he gave order for many things He in the next place designed to send out a great Fleet whereby he might upon occasion fall upon any enterprize but with full resolution to secure the Seas which was at this time much infested with the Gallies belonging to the Knights of Rhodes who being permitted by Charls the Emperour to come into Malta molested Ships and the Turkish affairs in all Seas and at the same time as concerning affairs of peace he endeavoured to make Constantinople the Staple Town of Merchandize especially of such spices as were brought from the Eastern parts into Alexandria and other places of his dominions intending as he said to
being Pope that if he should forego this his neutrality he would rather confirm the Leagues which they made first with his Predecessor Clement then think upon any new affairs They therefore resolved to send him eight Embassadours Marco Minio Tomaso Mocenico Nicolo Tiepoli Ieronimo Pesaro Iovan Badoaro Gasparo Contarini Frederico Riniâ—ro and Lorenzo Bragadine To whom they gave no other imployment save according to the usual custome to promise obedience to the new Pope not thinking it fit to demand any thing till they might discover somewhat of his thoughts since this his new fortune and dignity But the Emperour being more desirous to know what his designs might be and being still apprehensive of the French proceedings try'd the Pope presently touching the renewing of the League which he had made with his Predecessor Whereunto that he might the more easily perswade him he used means likewise to the Venetians that they would re-confirm their first capitulations with him exhorting them thereunto out of the consideration of the quiet of Italy which they so much desired And the which if they would joyn with him they should be able to make good against any commotions of the French though the new Pope should dissent from it and that nothing could prevail more to make Paul side with them in the beginning of this his Popedome then to see this union and good intelligence between the Commonwealth and him whereby it would behove the other Potentates of Italy to depend upon them To the which the Venetians neither totally assenting nor dissenting as being far from any innovation they shewed first that there was no neessity to re-confirm the League and then that they would be very ready to do it if it should be needful and thus ended the year 1534. The next year the Pope who diligently attended all weighty affairs declared himself more openly that he would interpose in making peace between Cesar and the King of France to whose Courts be sent express Legats But he seemed to be chiefly mindful of the affairs of Italy and particularly of the protection of the Common-wealth notwithstanding as all humane actions especially those of Princes are various and accidentally changeable an occasion hapned of suddenly altering this good intention of the Popes with danger of troubling the peace of Italy In the time of the vacancy of the Popedome the marriage was celebrated between Guido Ubaldo Son to Francisco Maria Duke of Urbine and Iulia sole daughter to Iovan Maria Varano Duke of Camerino upon whom her fathers estate descended This Match was at first approved of by Paul and it was thought that affairs would pass peaceably on But soon after the Pope being either perswaded to the contrary by others or falling of himself as it is often seen in those who are got to great prosperity into greater and higher thoughts began to think this a fit occasion to exalt his house to which this fee-farm of the Church was to be granted as a beginning to raise it above the condition of private men He therefore declared openly that he would not suffer that the Dukedome of Camerino should be possess'd as he said contrary to reason by the Duke of Urbine since it appertain'd only to him to dispose thereof as of a Fee-farm escheated to the Church This did much trouble the Venetians who had taken the Duke of Urbine into their protection and who bare greet good will to him and to his family for the good service he had done unto the Commonwealth For the Pope to boot with Ecclesiastical censures prepared to take up temporal Arms and had raised a good number of Foot to hinder the fortifying of Camerino and the Garison which the Duke was preparing to put thereinto They therefore used all the means they could to appease the Pope and the rather because the Duke willingly condiscended that the business might be decided by reason But the Pope listening neither to intreaties nor to reason said he could not govern himself herein otherwise then reason of State did advise him and not dissembling his intentions he said he would regain that by force of Armes which was taken from him A thing which was thought by all men to be of great concernment the condition of these times being considered by reason of the so many troubles of Christendom of the Turkish Forces and of the new Heresies which did increase apace in many noble Provinces Therefore the Venetians not leaving any thing undone to extinguish this small spark which might burst forth into a greater combustion represented it to Cesar intreating him to interpose his authority in maintaining that peace throughout all Italy of which to his so great praise he had been the chief Authour This being listened unto by Cesar who interceded fervently therein with the Pope helped very much to allay his very first heat but it was thought he was the more pacified by other proposals made by those that favoured the Duke and the Venetians of greater moment for the advancement of his house that he might give a noble fortune in Romagna to his son Pietro Luigi and restore the Cities of Ravenna and Cerviâ— to the Venetians to the end that the State and person of Piero Luigi might be taken into protection by the Venetians whereby the new Prince might be in great safety for it was not to be doubted but that the Venetians both in gratitude for the favour received and for their own interests since it would be better for them to have a particular person be Lord of that State then the Church would upon all occasions maintain the greatness of the Family of Farnese This offer being willingly listened unto by the Pope hoping to meet with some greater preferment for Luigi did satisfie his ambition till some better opportunity might be met with all to effect his desire He therefore began to value the Counsel of the Venetians the better and in particular favour to them was content that the deciding of the difference concerning the state of Camerino should be deferr'd to another time But there were many greater things which troubled the cogitations of Princes at this time not without some molestation to the Venetian Senate For Cesar prepared a great Fleet to pass therewith into Affriâ—â— to recover 〈◊〉 He was eagerly bent upon this enterprise moved thereunto chiefly by reason of State to secure the Kingdome of Naples which Cariadino did insolently threaten to assault and also not to suffer the Turks to grow more powerfull in these parts whereby they might infest and trouble the rivers of Spain which made his Subjects much desire this enterprise But he was hereunto incited also by a great desire of warlike honour thinking it a thing becoming so great a King as himself to assist the forlorne King Amuleasses and to repossess him of the State whereof he was legitimate Lord though others seeking to detract from his glory said that he sought hereby to shun the renewing war in Hungary and to
sooner and the more easily and that he might therewithal revenge the injuries which he thought he had received from Charls Philibert Duke of Savoy he thought to enter his State in hostile manner and to possess himself of his Towns The King was ill satisfied with the Duke for divers reasons because he would not restore unto him the Towns of Nice and Villa Franca which were formerly pawn'd by the Kings of France to the Dukes his predecessors because he would not consent being often desired that the pretensions which the said King had to the Dukedom by his Mother Madam Lodouica sister to the Duke might be argued by Law but chiefly because the Duke adhering too much to his wife who was sister to Iohn King of Portugal and Isabella wife to Charls the Emperour appeared in all things too partial to his wives brother It was hereby seen that the next year 1536. would prove remarkable by reason of the discords between these great Princes which must prove the original of great evils The beginning of this year the King made the Admiral of France Philip Chabotte Captain General of his Army and sent him to assault Piamont where finding the Country but badly provided for defence he took Turin Fossano and Pinniorollo and had taken Vercelli had not Antonio da Leva who was in the State of Milan speedily advanc'd with resolution to succour it hindred him The Emperour was exceedingly offended at these proceedings and much incens'd against the King of France so as preparing diligently to raise a powerful Army against him he said he would assault him in his own Kingdom of France and being not long after come to Rome he complained of the King of France publiquely in the Consistory and exaggerating this new action as much as he could he broke out into open rage saying he would challenge the King of France to fight a single combate that so they might once end so many quarrels themselves alone which things caused much wonder amongst all men and destracted much from the praise of these otherwise sage and generous Princes since professing never to give way to any thing yet giving themselves over to this affect on they suffered themselves to be led on to many unworthy actions The Pope laboured exceedingly to reconcile them who had formerly treated of many things to that purpose but in vain the chief difficulty lay in finding out a means which might please them both touching the affairs of Milan In which Treaties though the Venetians interposed themselves for by Cesar's pleasure all things therein were communicated to them proceedings were had with great caution by reason of the aforesaid respects which were made the greater by these new accidents which occasioned some doubts that the Emperour to free himself of the troubles of War and that he might restore the Duke of Savoy to his State who being gone to meet him at Naples entreated him continually to procure his restitution would at last make some agreement with the King of France who entring Italy again would not suffer the injuries to pass unrevenged which he thought he had received from other Italian Princes This was the rather believed for that the King of France had at the Popes perswasion condiscended to send the Cardinal of Lorain to Rome to treat of the conditions of Agreement by whose coming there was also a cessation of Arms in Piamont And in these Treaties Cesar was contented to yeild the Dukedom of Milan to the King of France on condition that Monsieur d'Angulesme the Kings third Son might be thereinto invested by him But this business was not fully decided because the King desired that this State might not be conferr'd upon Angulesme but upon the King 's second Son the Duke of Orleans which Cesar absolutely denied to do alledging that this would not be to confirm the peace of Italy which was his desire but to make way for some other dangerous novelty by reason of the pretensions that Orleans had by his wife Katherin de Medici to the States of Florence and Urbin Thus the business not being perfected Cesar who being gone from Rome tarried some days in divers Towns of Tuscany went forward to Aste where having assembled all his chief Commanders of which the most famous were Errando di Tolledo Duke of Alva the Marquis Guastâ— and Don Ferrante Gonsaga he advised which might be the best way to carry on the War wherein following rather his own desire then the reasons and counsel of more experienced men he resolved to pass with his Army into Provence so as mustering all his men at Nice whither Doria came also with fifty Gallies to back the Army with his Fleet he himself came in person to the same place from whence penetrating into the confines of France he stay'd with his Camp about the Town of Aix not being resolved whither to bend his course but intending chiefly to assault either Marcelles or Ardes he spent many days in these his irresolutions and gave the King who was come for this purpose to Lions time to gather together a powerful Army of Dutch Foot and Switzers to oppose his Forces and likewise to get divers Italian Commanders to side with him who having mustered a good many men about Mirandola prepared to attempt some novelty in Genua and to bring it to the devotion of France so as Cesar being now to think of defending his own affairs and his Army being already much incommodated by the bad temper of the Ayr where it lay encamp'd he was forced to retreat not having done any thing but shewn a great desire to offend the King of France But before he went into Provence he had sent Rodarigo Davilas to Venice to inform the Senate of his preparation for War and of his design of falling upon France and then to entreat them that they would have those forces in readiness which they were by their articles bound to have that they might speedily march as occasion should require to the defence of the State of Milan To which the Senate gave this answer that as they had been ready to renew the League so would they be as ready to maintain those things to which they were thereby bound that therefore for what appertain'd to them the State of Milan should not want for defence So they resolved to raise 6000 foot to be commanded by Antonio da Castello General of the Artillery by Colonel Babone Naldo and others To which they added 500 light Horse armed after the Burgonian manner ordering that all these should go to Asala in the Brescian Territories to the end that upon occasion they might pass into the Cremonese and the Duke of Urbin was sent for from his State that he might be ready to go in person with the Army But after the first Brunt of the French was over by the Truce made by the coming of the Cardinal of Lorain by which it was thought they would make way to greater Victories it seemed that
with their goods be set at liberty The Auditory was much in doubt what to do concerning these proposalls on the one side they had great hopes and large offers promised them but which would draw on sore wars and much trouble on the other side doubts of but small quiet and no lesser difficulties continuing still in the same danger which would be made the worse by the King of France his indignation if he should see his friendship refused and neglected after so large offers After long consultation it was proposed to the Senate by the joynt opinion of the Collegio de Savii That the same Rangone being desired to return many thanks to the King for his favour and for his so many and so loving offers he should tell his Majesty That as for the Union which was proposed the King might know what esteem the Common-wealth had of the Crown of France by what she had often done formerly and that as she had not been hitherto wanting so her actions should still be such when any occasion should be offered as might câ—â—firm the King and all others in a good opinion of her Mark Antonio Cornaro was the onely man that opposed this a man famous for eloquence and of great reputation though not very old and who was then Savio di Terra ferma he would have it freely told to Rangâ—ne That to keep promise was that which became a Prince and was the antient uninterrupted custom of the Common-wealth Wherefore being tyed by a new confederacy to Cesar they could not think of any other agreement contrary to it But that they were notwithstanding confident that the King as a wise Christian Prince and a friend would not give over the good offices which he had begun with the Turks He therefore spake thus He who will give his opinion in any weighty and important Affair must be so free from passion as his reason be not contaminated Hope and fear as evill consulâ—ors which keep truth concealed ought alwaies to be banished such resolutions These are the affections which I desire maybe chiefly driven from your bosomes most worthy and grave Senators that the resolution which shall this day be put on may be right and sincere agreeing with the publick good and with the opinion which the world hath of this Senate's wisdom The offers made unto us by the King of France to make us side with him and take up arms against our friend and confederate Cesar are very great and truly he ought to mention great things to make us by a new and detestable example break our publick faith without any just occasion and undertake a no lesse unjust then weighty and dangerous war Two things are at once propounded unto us to make war with the Emperour and the keeping peace with Soliman and this very cunningly to work upon us by these inventions to the end that some of us moved thereunto by our own strength and by his assistance and out of hopes of great acquisitions being allured by what is very usefull and desirable may forget what is honest and feasable and may easily enter into troubles which we shall not so easily get out of And others blinded by the desire of preservation from present dangers and of freeing themselves from the fear of war with the Turks without finding any better security for our present affairs We must look upon these things with eyes uncontaminated by these affections with the pure and sincere eyes of our soules and consider with what intention they are proposed for by so doing it will easily appear what we ought to do therein and by what answer we may free our selves from those snares which are covered over with an appearance of liberty and from that infamy which goes concealed under the cloak of glory It was the generosity of our fore-fathers readily to embrace any occasion of enlarging our confines whilst the condition of times advised thereunto It was the constancy of our fathers and hath been ours to seek to preserve things which were got by the worth of others not being overcome by the tedious troubles of war But certainly it was no lesse wisdom nor lesse praise-worthy to accommodate our selves to the present fortune of the Common-wealth to lay down Arms and to wait for better times when we had found all experience in vain We did then possesse the greatest part of thâ—se territories which now are promised us in reward of new troubles and dangers and notwithstanding because we knew that the keeping of them would nourish perpetuall discords we being desirous to purchase peace to the Common-wealth at last did resolve to quit them We parted willingly and by agreement with Ravenna and Cervia to the Pope and with many Towns in Puglia to the Emperour We should not now think of these things since it will be harder for us to repossesse our selves of those cities then it would have been to have kept them and for that Cesar 's power is much encreased and confirmed in Italy So as to change the present condition thereof is a thing rather to be desired than to be expected and if this be any waies to be hoped for past experience the same course which we still keep teacheth us that it may â—e had not by arms but by negotiation and dexâ—erity by insinuating our selves into Cesar 's favour and by keeping him in some jealousie of our friendship which he doth so highly value at this time by which means he may be brought as he hath been formerly and haâ—h now promised to yield that a particular Duke of Millan be named But certainly he who thinks there is any good grounds of joyning part of that State to our Dominions may be said to take pleasure in willingly deceiving himself It is too apparent that the bare newes of this confederacy with France or the discovery of any such thoughts in us would be sufficient to make all the Princes of Italy joyne against us nay the very King of France who is now so free of his promises would be hardlier perswaded to grant these things then others would be if there should be any occasion of doing it Is it possible that we can so soon forget what is past or if we remember them can we with patience give ear to these negotiations What counsell did ever prove more unfortunate to this Common-wealth then the thinking of getting of Cremona and Giaradada What but this was the first and true originall cause of making all the Princes of Christendom conspire against us to almost the totall ruine of our affairs And who was the first author of this conspiracy and of our so many mischiefs but that very King of France who assisted by our forces in his getting the Dukedom of Millan was bound to keep us in the possession of that part thereof which was given us in reward of our so much expence and labour And I pray you what was it that forced us to joyne at first in confederacy with
equally ballanced as may be doth much concern the safety and liberty of all Italy and particularly the reputation and grandure of this Common-wealth not to secure the one altogether nor to make the other totally dispair of our friendship which is the onely means of keeping the one from over-much exceeding the other and from securing their affairs in Italy which most weighty consideration hath made us not sâ—ick to side sometimes with the one sometimes with the other as hath stood most with the times and with our interests It is now 13 years since that being then in League with the King of France and seeing the Emperours forces increase so fast in Italy and the French succours come on so slowly as it was thought impossible to uphold them any longer we followed Cesar's fortune did what our own safety and service advised us to do and adhering unto Cesar did help him to drive the residue of the French Army out of Italy but soon after the French faction growing powerfull by King Francis passing over the mountains with a strong Army we forewent our new Confederacy made with the Emperour and did re-establish our ancient League with the King of France whose affairs proving afterwards unfortunate and contrary to the first hopes his Army being routed and himselfe taken prisoner we to preserve our selves early from being injured by the Conqueror did side again with Cesar whose greatnesse growing suspitious and seeing our selves then free from the former danger of his forces as soon as we found the King of France who was now set at liberty minded to make war with Cesar we took up Arms with him to drive the Imperialists out of the Dukedom of Millan All these things hapned within lesse than two years space and I my selfe was present in many of them as Commissary of your Armies and certainly it was wisely done to sute our selves to the various conditions of times by doing which we have preserved the Common-wealth and reduced her at last to peace Then since the same respects continue shall we proceed otherwise Why shall we by seeming inseparably united to Cesar force the King of France to give over his thoughts of Italy and leave the Emperour sole Arbitrator thereof by doing thus we shall at one and the same time purchase hatred from the French neglect from the Imperialists lessen the reputation of our Common-wealth and make the way easie for Cesar to inthrale whole Italy To what purpose is the unconstancy and uncertainty of the King of France urged if we do not at all now treat of relying upon his word And say we should treat thereof such a conferacy could not occasion us so much trouble or danger but that our appearing to continue so constant to Cesar might be cause of more Nor do I say that we ought to treat with some reservation with the King of France for any respect of the King himselfe for any service that we have received by him or out of hope of what we may receive though if I should say so it is not so long since we recovered Verona by the assistance of his forces but that it might procure me some belief It is our own service and good which makes me advise thus which should perswade us to take this course Therefore as I shall not easily advise since the present times do not permit it that we should enter into assured and present troubles of a new War so shall I not counsell quite to forgoe the thought of the Emperour 's too immoderate greatnesse which hath cost us so much labour in the hardest times preâ—erring the security of our Common-wealth and our posterity for which the Senate is much to be praised before any accommodation we could receive by peace We may by this time know what Cesar's intentions are and that it is now more to be feared than ever that he will subjugate all Italy He hath drawn us into confederacy with him by giving us good words and by promising to put a Duke into the State of Millan But do not his actions shew how careful he is to make good this his promise If then we do desire to bring him to this since we cannot now use open violence let us at least make him somewhat jealous of our friendship and assistance for it may very well fall out that fearing lest by our alienation he may shamefully lose that State he may resolve to leave it with honour and praise by some fair way of accommodation as he lately did when he was contented that Francisco Sforzza should be repossessed thereof The respect of our present troubles and dangers of the Turkish Forces being added to these considerations I think we ought not to forgoe the gravity and maturity with which the Senate is wont to proceed in matters of much lesse moment for it is evident that the too much hastning of this our resolution and the two soon declaring of our selves will increase the Turks jealousies that we are joyn'd with Cesar to their prejudice and cannot but much injure our affairs and bring us upon some precipice Moreover I know not why we ought to value the intercession of a puissant Prince and one so highly esteem'd by the Turks as is the King of France so little I am not perswaded that a treaty of Peace and Agreement propounded by a personage of great power would be displeasing to us if we were in open War with Soliman And now that our businesse is depending in my opinion more inclinable to peace than war shall we not believe that the French may by their indeavours the more easily divert it be it but by acquainting them with the easinesse of the enterprise wherein their intentions and designs against the Imperialists and us will be assisted Much more may be said upon this occasion so as my discourse thereupon must be long though contrary to my custome but I forbear to say many things purposely that I may not seem to distrust the wonted wisdome of this Senate to which it may seem very conformable to keep the more certain determination of our will therein undetermined as also the opinion that the King of France or any others may have thereof who may Comment upon this our answer we shall have time for a better grounded and more mature resolution the waiting for which in difficulties hath alwaies been thought to become a wise and prudent Prince According to this mans opinion the Senate took time to deliberate upon an answer and upon dismissing Count Rongone This mean while certain news came to Venice that Soliman was come with his Army to Vallona and that his Fleet passing by Corfu had saluted the Fort by shooting off their Guns according to the military fashion in token of friendship and were with like shot amicably answered by our men and that they had committed no hostile act neither in that Island nor elsewhere but that some of his men having taken away certain goods from some of
from whom they might expect best assistance were disarmed which would not prove so now when the Emperour and Common-wealth had two powerfull Fleets at sea to fall upon the enemy What was there more to be expected That forces were to be made use of whilst they were enâ—ire and losses obviated before they happened and not to suffer the one and the other Fleet to run peradventure some hasard become weaker since mens designes do oft-times miscarry by severall unthought-of accidents or that the Turks should begin to get footing in Italy and so these mischiefs prove too late to be remedied By these and the like reasons the Embassador strove to make the Senators leave their Neutrality and declare enmity to the Turks But they being grave and considerate men would not be moved by these majesticall words and ill-grounded promises continuing their resolution of not taking up arms unlesse enforc'd by necessity against so powerfull an enemy and who might prejudice the dominions of the Common-wealth in so many severall parts she not having forces of her self sufficient to defend them nor having reason to confide much in others It was therefore resolved to answer in generall terms That they returned thanks to Cesar but could do no more at this time out of many weighty and well known respects especially since their friendship and neerer conjunction being desired by the French and by the Turks they had answered them they could not give them satisfaction for that it was the stedfast resolution of the Venetian Senate to keep their plighted faith to all men as it became all Princes to do That they would notwithstanding keep in arms for any chance that might occur having alwaies together with their own safety an eye to the common good of Christendom The Embassadour seemed satisfied with this answer replying nothing as then but returning some few daies after to the Colledge he made an other demand which was That since the French threatned danger to the State of Millan they would raise 6000 Foot for the defence thereof and send their Gens d' Armes thither according to the Articles of the last Agreement Wherein shewing themselves to be very ready necessary orders were fortwith given out for it But the Commanders being come with their Horse and many Foot to those Confines the Duke of Urbin who commanded the Venetian Militia in chief put them in minde that they were to passe no farther they being onely to defend the State of Millan whereof there appeared no need at the present since the French were held play as yet in Piemont That if they should passe the River Sesia and enter the Dukedom of Millan that then their tye of confederacy would take place and that upon such an occasion the people of the Common-wealth should be ready The end of the Eighth Book THE HISTORY OF VENICE Written by PAULO PARUTA BOOK IX THE CONTENTS THe Common-wealth prepares to resist the Turks The League solicited The Venetians are moved by the Consull to treat of Agreement Mark Antonio Cornaro disswades from so doing Marco Foscari opposeth him His motion not approved of A league of the christian Princes against Soliman the Articles thereof Orders given by the Senate to the Generall Provisions of Money A Treaty of Peace between Caesar and the King of France which takes no effect Divers discourses thereupon The Pope goes to Nice what past between him the Emperour and the King of France The Turks preparations for war Their successe A notable Treason punisht by the Turks The Venetians provide to defend Candia Jovanni Moro exhorts those of Candia to keep faithfull to the common-wealth Barbarossa in Candia and what befalls him there Napoli and Malvasia besieged The Turks assault Dalmatia What succeeds there The Dukes exhortation to the Senators Those of Dalmatia resolve to make some attempt after the Turks are gone What their success was The Leagues Fleet and that of the Turks The Spaniards faultinesse The Popes Fleet assaults Pevesa does little good but runs great hazard The Leagues Fleet resolves to fight the Enemy The Turks are irresolute Barbarossa's nature and his opinion The Turks fear the Venetian ships The Fleets encounter Doria's advice and resolution to fight The Fleets face one another Their severall thoughts The Colleagues retreat and are prejudiced by the Turks Severall discourses against Doria his shame The Leagues Fleet adviseth to assault the Enemy again The Generalls severall opinions They assault Castel-Nuovo which surrenders and is sackt by the Spaniards The Turkish Fleet is scattered and sorely rent by storm the Collâ—agues part and disarm The Duke of Urbines death ALl treaty of Peace being laid aside and the hopes of the safety and defence of the States Dominions by Sea resting in Arms the Venetians are very diligent in providing all things necessary for War They prepare a great Fleet Souldiers Ammunition and Victuals for the service of the Islands and other Maritine places Those of Napoli and Malvasia desired that their Garrisons might be increased but especially to be furnisht with Victuals for want whereof Napoli had been in danger of falling into the Enemies hands they promised if assisted and succour'd to undergo the greatest dangers of War and to continue constant to the Common-wealth even to the last extremity The Island of Candia made the same request wherein there having been some commotions and scandalous speeches given out that they would surrender unto the Enemy when their Army should approach by reason of the terrour which the sacking of the Islands in the Archipelagus had infused into the generality of the chiefest cities in the Kingdom they had sent Embassadors to Venice to purge themselves of that fault which they said was occasioned by the errour of some few of mean condition rather out of their indiscretion and cowardlinesse than out of ill will They therefore offered to serve the Common-wealth with their lives and livelihoods promising to give good testimony of their Loyalty and humbly desiring that they might not be abandond for that they were ready to defend themselves to the last would never go lesse in their affection to the Common-wealth whereof many of them were members by an ancient Colony and therefore the more interessed in this cause The Senate listned very attentively to these things and dismist the Embassadors with gracious words and promises and ordered the Generall to send forthwith 25 gallies towards Candia under the command of Commissary Pasqualigo who was likewise to send souldiers and victuals to Napoli and to leave four gallies to guard it The Island and Fort of Corâ—u were likewise furnisht with necessaries and had 1000 foot sent from Venice to add unto the Garrison conducted by Valerio Orsino who was to be the chiefe head of that Militia the Senate not being well satisfied with Naldo's actions Dalmatia was furnisht with severall Troops of light Horse chosen out of stout men of Greece and Crovatia to defend the Country from the inrodes of the Enemy but the
making the Venetians retard the already resolved Treaty of Peace Thus ended the year 1538 in the end whereof upon the 27 day of December the Doge Gritti dyed being 84 years old a good part whereof he had spent in managing important affairs and in the Common-wealth's most difficult times as may be known by what you have heard He was Prince 15 years and 7 moneths and his death was bewailed by all men His Funerall Oration was made by Barnardo Navagiero a youth who was then of great hopes and who proved afterwards a Cardinall he was buried in S. Francis his Church The year 1539 insued wherein there passed no action of Warre on the Common-wealths behalfe though great preparations were made for it it being almost wholly spent in the negotiation of peace in the beginning thereof the Venetians thinking that they were to trust to none but to themselves and their own Forces for the safety of their State though they had indeavour'd peace with the Turks and the continuation of the League to the end that if need should be they might be able to maintain the War of themselves without the help of the Confederates they did all they could to increase their Garrisons and to re-inforce their Fleet. They took many Souldiers into pay and armed more slight and greater Gallies in Venice and gave commission likewise to Commissary Contarini who was then in Candia to indeavour the speedy arming of 25 Gallies in that Kingdom At this time the Senate made an institution that out of all the Artificers of the City 4000 men should be chosen who were four times a year to go aboord certain Gallies thereunto appointed to row This is commonly called Regattare or vuying for the Mastery and severall rewards were appointed for the first three that should row best By this means there were alwaies men ready and prepared to arm a certain number of Gallies upon a sudden and Guido Ubaldo Duke of Urbin was taken into pay by the Common-wealth to be head of the Militia who in the life time of his Father Duke Francisco Maria had alwaies been in this service and he had a hundred Curassieres a hundred light Horse and ten paid Captains added to his Conduct and four thousand Duckats for his boord-wages The Duke was held to be very fit for the service of the Common-wealth as well in respect of his own condition being bred up under his Father's excellent discipline and being attended by the best Souldiers that were then in Italy who had served under his Father as also for the condition of his Dukedom which did abound in good Souldiers and in places commodiously scituated from whence to be sent to the Garrisons of the Sea-Forts Wherefore the Senate sent Francisco Somito Embassador to him with great demonstrations of love and honour to condole his Father's death and to assure him that they would not forget the good service he had done the Common-wealth But some months past before they came to this confirmation for fear lest the Pope should be offended if the Duke who was Feudatory to the Church should be honour'd and embrac'd by the Common-wealth whilst he was in contumacy with the Pope The State of Camerino had as you have heard been the occasion of these dislikes for Duke Guido being possest of the Dukedom of Camerino in the right of his wife Iulia daughter to Iovan Maria Varrano the last Duke of that Family The Pope pretended that that State was illegally possest which for want of Heirs-male should have reverted to the Apostolick Sea as being held in fee of him The Senate was very fervent in this businesse indeavouring to appease the Pope being thereunto moved by the recent memory of Francisco Maria who had deserved so well of the Common-wealth and out of their good affection to the present Duke who was in much trouble and danger and they were no lesse excited thereunto for fear lest thereby some important Warre might be raised in Italy For the Duke of Mantua whose sisters Son Duke Guido was gave out that he would not onely defend the Duke his Nephew with his State and Forces but would call in forrain ayd into Italy At last when all proved vain that could be done to make the Pope alter his mind the Duke was forced by the interposition of the Senators authority and mediation to yeeld up the Dukedom of Camerino to the Pope who was resolved to recover it by force of arms if it were not willingly surrendred receiving in recompence a good sum of Money as in dowry with his wife Iulia. This difference being accommodated and this respect ceasing which was the onely thing that stuck with some men Duke Guido was taken into pay by the Common-wealth as hath been said And that the Fleet might not likewise be without a Commander in chiefe since Capello who had permission from the Senate to leave his Armed Gally at Chioggia and retaining still the name and degree of Generall to return to Venice for the recovery of his health was not in a condition of returning soon to that service Iovanni Moro was chosen to supply his place who was then Commissary Generall in Candia but news of his death comming not long after the place was conferr'd on Tomaso Mocenico a man verst in many important businesses both at home and abroad Moro's death was thus occasioned A great dispute fell out between the Grecian and the Italian Foot and great numbers of men flockt to each side Moro fearing some great disorder went thither himselfe in person with his Halbardiers and other armed men to appease the tumult and being wounded in the head with a stone dyed soon after But this his action was not able to appease the fury of those people for many more were slain and the businesse grew more dangerous When Duke Antonio da Mula putting on his Ducall crimson Robes and inviron'd by his Courtiers went to-where the uproare was and such was the respect they bore to his person by reason of his years by reason of his degree and reverend habite as it appeas'd their rage and insolencies which the Commissary with his armed men could not do Iovanni Vitturi was chosen to succeed Moro who severely punishing the heads of this uproar quieted all the rest so as no tumults nor injuries arose between the Souldiers and Islanders a long time after Whilst the Venetians proceeded thus the Turks were no lesse diligent in preparing their Fleet and Armie being the more sensible of their losse of Castel Nuovo by reason of their being alwaies accustomed to overcome Therefore being resolved to recover this place and thereby the reputation which they had lost in losing it they made preparation both of men and all things else sufficient for a far greater enterprise and in the mean while Dragute who as it hath been said tarryed in the gulph of Lepanto went from thence with 30 Vessels very well armed and coming to the Island of Paxù did much
might be argumented by what he himself and his Predecessors had done for the Common-wealth the state and dignity whereof he much desired should be encreased That the King did not sue for this friendship when he was in a low condition but in a time when his Forces were greater then they had been for many years before and when they might be accompanied by those of the Turks since the things done unto Soliman by Cesar had so incenst him as that he offered him all assistance to work revenge That it might be guess'd by Janusby 's Embassy how the grand Signieur stood affected towards these two Princes And that now it belonged to the wisdom of their Lordships to consider how much it imported the Common-wealth to be friend to his friends and enemy to his enemies These fair and magnificent words could not make the grave and experienced Senators alter their opinion nor draw them into new obligations and wars Wherefore the businesse being reported to the Senate they did almost unanimously vote that the same answer should be made to the French Embassadours as had been given to Ianusby by the Collegio de Savii That the Common-wealth put a great value upon the King of France his friendship wherein they would alwaies faithfully and sincerely correspond with him but that they must likewise keep peace with other Princes and not do any thing that might tend to the contrary After this Paulino continued his journey towards Constantinople and was conducted by the Venetian Gallies in Albania hoping assuredly to get that the Fleet might put to Sea that year But were it either that the season was too far spent to rig out so great a Fleet or that Soliman's minde was wholly set upon the affairs of Hungary whether he said he would return himself in person with greater Forces the French could not as then be befriended by the Turks The King of France was not this mean while idle but having raised a great many Souldiers and thereout made three Armies and sent his eldest son the Dolphin in the head of one of them to the Pirenean Mountains to recover Perpignan which belonged formerly to the Crown of France and was yielded to Ferdinando of Aragon when he intended to passe into Italy With an other Army commanded by his second son the Duke of Orleans he assaulted Burgony and Lucemburg The third Army whereunto was added the Duke of Cleve's forces and was led on by the Duke of Vandome a Prince of the blood entring into Flanders through Artois assaulted severall Towns of that Province But the noise of all these Armies proved greater then any harm they did the Emperour for the Dolphin finding the Fort of Perpignan well Garrison'd and soon succour'd by the Duke of Alva's Forces was forc'd to retreat not having done any thing And the Duke of Orleans did nothing but plunder and pillage the Country and the Towns taken by the Duke of Cleves were kept but a very little while Wherefore the King of France failing in all his designes and thinking upon the assistance which he had conceived from others complained of Soliman and of the Venetians for not having taken up Arms to assist him in a seasonable time whilst he had molested Cesar in so many severall parts Wherefore the ill offices done to the Venetians by his Embassadour Monsieur de Monpelliere made the greater impression in him And Poliâ—o who was still at Constantinople openly discovering this dis-satisfaction did oppose himself to the proceedings of the Venetians both in private meetings and in the publick Divano seeking to detract from the person of their Consul and from the dignity of the Common-wealth and hoping still to have the Fleet the next year he said That he himself would go in it and would make the Venetians know how prejudiciall his endeavours and his King's authority would prove to them A new accident had given occasion to these things for their Treason being at this time discovered who revealed the aforesaid secrets of the Common-wealth to the French Agostino Abondio who was the chief delinquent for by his means the things were discovered to Cesare Fregoso and by him communicated to the Court of France had for his preservation gotten into the French Ambassadour's house to the which Bernardo Georgio one of the Auvogadori del Commune a Magistrate of great authority being gone with Commanders and the chief-heads of the Councell of Ten and other Officers to have the guilty party delivered into their hands the Auvogadori with great respect desired to speak with the Embassadour When those of his family laying violent hands upon those who were at the gate and upon the stairs and wounding some of them would give no answer nor would suffer any one of them to go any further Whereupon by order from the Councill of Ten Guards of armed Boats and many people were presently placed about the Embassadour's house as well to keep the Traitor from escaping as for preserving the house and the Embassadour's person from the peoples fury who being in a tumult by reason of this accident were very like to grow more insolent and give occasion of greater scandall At last Abondio was by the Embassadour delivered into the hands of Justice who being found guilty was condemned and hanged And the goods of Cesare Fregoso he being already dead were confiscated and his brother Alexander had his Pension taken from him and his command of Gers d'Armes their offence being thought the greater by reason of the great obligations which their father Ianus and their whole family had received from the Common-wealth The King was wrongfully inform'd of these things as if they had been done onely to despise him and not out of safety for the Common-wealth and out of justice Wherefore he spoke loud and was grievously offended against the Common-wealth But afterwards his passion being over he sent the Pronotory of Monduck to Venice to plead his excuse if grounding his judgment upon false information he had conceived a worser opinion of the Common-wealth then she had deserved at his hands saying that he would blot out the Memory thereof and would be alwaies a true and constant friend to her and soon after he sent the same Monduck back to Venice to be his Embassador in ordinary there in the place of the Bishop of Monpellier who to gratifie the Senate was at their request removed from that charge There hapned an other accident at the same time which did a little trouble the Senate both in respect of themselves and others which was the taking of Marano from Ferdinando King of the Romanes in whose power it was by vertue of the last Capitulations by Beltrame Sacchia a Venetian subject who did it first of his own head but afterwards by the interessing of great Princes for calling in Pietro Strozzi to his aid a banisht Florentine who entred in with a certain number of men tumultuously raised in the State of Venice they declared that they held
Cesar some other way An other novelty likewise hapned which was thought would add fuell to this fire of war which was a kindling The Pope finding his other designes for the agrandising of his house prove vain the City of Parma and Piacenza being severed from the Church which were thereunto joyned by Iulius the 2d gave them in fee-farm to his son Pier Luigi obliging him to pay 8000 Crowns a year for them by way of tribute and in lieu thereof to yield up the Dukedome of Camerino and the Signiory of Nepi wherein his son Octavio was but a little before invested to the Apostolick Sea Cesar was so much displeased hereat as he could by no means be brought to assent thereunto nor give way to the investment thereof desired of him by the Pope as being Lord of the State of Millan whereof these two Cities had wont to be a member This obdurancy of Cesar did so alienate Luigi's heart from him who was formerly sufficiently enclined to the French as it was thought he would embrace any occasion that should be offered to witnesse his ill-will and to damnifie Cesar. The Pope being for these respects grown suspected by both sides and equally mistrusting both Cesar and the King of France but being notwithstanding resolved come what will come to make good what he had done touching the setling of the new Dukedom upon his son he had much discourse with the Venetian Embassador shewing in what danger the affairs of Italy would be as soon as the King of France should have rid his hands of war with the King of England with whom he was in treaty of peace Or when Cesar having reduced the Protestant Princes to his obedience at the Dyet at Ratisbone should have no need to take up Armes against them He therefore desired that the Senate would joyne in close intelligence with him concerning the common interests and in signe of greater confidence he made the new Duke send Agostino di Laudi as his Embassador to Venice who acquainting the Senate with the dignity conferred upon him offered both himself and State to be at the Common-wealth's service Correspondence was had hereunto in a friendly manner but in generall tearms which might not any waies oblige nor whereby the Pope might be the more encouraged to do any thing upon these hopes which might disquiet Italy But minding their own defence and providing for what might happen the Senate took Guido Ubaldo Duke of Urbin into the service of the Common-wealth with the title of Captain Generall of the Militia allowing him 5000 Crowns a year pay for himself and 15000 for a hundred Curassiers and a hundred light Horse which he was bound to have alwaies in a readinesse for the Common-wealth's service But Italy's safety consisted in the troubles which were to continue between the Emperour and the King of France for the latter could not by any forces though very great both by sea and land and by hazarding all fortunes recover the City of Bullen from the English who were resolved not to restore it upon agreement And Cesar having assembled the Protestant Princes in the Dyet at Ratisbone to treat of things touching Religion could do no good upon them though he went there himself in person But whereas they first seemed contented that the Councill should be held in Trent promising to send their Doctors thither to treat of the points of Faith and to stand to what should there be decided they now demanded that a Nationall Councill might be called in Germany which being afterwards reduced to Trent that the meeting might be in all parts free and other more exorbitant things Whereby the Pope argued that making use of this occasion he needed not to fear the Councill but might secure his son in Parma and Piacenza since both Cesar and the Princes and people of Germany had turned their thoughts else-where and were to end bitter contestations by war He therefore began to incite Cesar by frequent messages who was already sufficiently incenst against many German Princes and Cities exhorting him for his honours sake to take up Arms against those Rebells and promising him great assistance not onely by concession of many boones in Cesar's States but by contributing a great many Foot Horse to be paid by the Apostolick Sea The Senate had at first a hand in this businesse seeking as they formerly had done to slacken the Pope's fervour in undertaking this war whereby they thought Italy might receive prejudice and no certain hopes that the affairs of Religion would fare the better by force for whole Germany a great and powerfull Province being as it was said to concur therein whereof many of the chief Hans-Towns had already declared for the Protestant Princes who were risen for fear â—est the Emperour might under other pretences bereave them of their libertie and the name of the Pope being grown greatly hatefull in Germany there was reason to fear that that warlick Nation might overflow Italy and they be prejudiced thereby who had no hand in that commotion Or if Cesar should subdue Germany his forces and reputation growing greater by this victory his power would be more dangerous for the Princes of Italy But afterwards knowing the Pope's resolutenesse herein and that being carried away by two powerfull affections fear and hope touching State respects and his own greatnesse and the like of his family he would not be brought to listen to any other counsell The Senate forbare any such courses and rather sought to go by the way of diversion in the discourses which were often held with them to this purpose by the Pope's and Cesar's Embassadours that they might not offend Cesar without any advantage by advising him against the enterprise or by commending it make him demand more expresse aids of them Notwithstanding all this it was said that the Common-wealth was comprehended in the League which was made at Rome which some did so assuredly aver as in the notes which were publickly given about of the confederates contributions and of the preparations for war five thousand Foot were reckoned to be paid by the Venetians who being desirous to satisfie these Princes in what might neither cost them monies nor trouble did upon request willingly grant passage to the Pope's Souldiers who being mustered in Bologâ—â—a to the number of 12000 Foot and 500 Horse were to passe to Trent through the territories of Verona and the like was done to Cesar's Souldiers they being furnish'd with victualls and all other conveniences The Pope's Army was made up of the best Souldiers of Italy and commanded by valiant Captains of all which the Pope's nephew Ottavio Fernese was General a young man but of great hopes and who had been trained up some few years before in the Militia when he went with his father in Law the Emperour to the Affrican wars But people from several Nations were flock'd to Cesar's Army and many out of Germany her self drawn out of the Patrimoniall States of
the weightinesse and unworthinesse of the action committed upon the person of Duke Pier Luigi who was slain by some Gentlemen of Piacenza who had conspir'd his death by the assent and forâ—knowledge as was commonly believed of Don Ferrante Gonsaga Caesars Lieutenant in Italy and the City of Piacenza was possest by a good number of Spanish Foot led on by the same Don Ferrante and was still held in Cesars name whereby it was perceived that Cesar aspired to possess himselfe of other mens states not onely by force but by fraud It was known that this action would be very displeasing to the Venetians wherefore Gonsaga had quickly sent Giovan Battista Schizzo to Venice a Senator of Millan to affirm that he had not any ways been the Author thereof but that he could not notwithandsting refuse being thereunto call'd and requir'd by those that had slain the Duke and who had quickly had recourse to him at Millan to receive that City in Cesars name till such time as his will should be known who they knew to be a friend to what was just and honest yet his actions perswaded to the contrary for at the same time he caused the building of the Fort to be continued which was begun by the Duke made the people and Nobility swear fâ—alty to Cesar and possessing himselfe of many Castles fortified them and prepared to besiege Parma Ottavio complaining in vain that such injury should be done to him who was the Emperour's Son in law This Commotion made the Venetians bestir themselves in making better provision for their own defence They made Stephano Tiepolo their Commissary Generall on Terra ferma that by the Authority of the supream Magistrate he might order their Militia view their Forts and speedily provide for what was needfull They had likewise recalled the Duke of Urbin Generall of the Common-wealth's Forces into the State who was at this time gone to Rome upon occasion of his marriage formerly concluded with Virginia Daughter to the late Duke Pier Luigi Fernese And they commanded Antonio da Castello who was a man well reputed and Captain of the Artillery to go to Brescia and to increase the ordinary Garrison with the Country-people They did the like at Verona whither the Commissary-Generall hasted and great care was taken for the safe custody of all other places of concernment and all things seemed full of snares and jealousies Things being in this condition the Pope and King of France ceased not to try the Venetians inviting them not to delay declaring themselves any longer and not to stay applying remedies to the eminent danger till there was no remedy to be found but that all Italy must run the same fortune by the totall ruine and loss of Dominion and Liberty But the Senate would not be easily moved to take up Arms against a powerfull Neighbouring-Prince in the height of his prosperity and greatnesse For the Common-wealth was not in so weak a condition as that any enterprise might be easily undertaken against her by any whosoever nor yet in such a height as to infuse fear into others and make them seek to secure themselves by abasing her so as her condition seemed to differ from the like of the rest and therefore the Common-wealth being some-what freer from fear of being molested by Cesar might wait the advantage of Time and till by the variation of the present condition of affairs a way might be opened to safer resolutions And what reason have we said the Senators whilst they advised upon what answer should be return'd to the Pope and to the King to part from Caesars confederacy and to enter into other Leagues and union What should perswade us to seek for safety by exposing our selves to nearer and more certain dangers Wherein hath Caesar failed us for the space of near upon these eighteen years that we have had peace with him By what injury hath he provoked us The Common-wealth was never more quiet at Land then now And if it were not that War by Sea doth trouble the so many advantages of Peace certainly this our City would be now in the height of all prosperity And shall we by seeking after better fortune bereave our selves of Peace and vainly think that we shall be bereft thereof by others Who knows not that the League which is propounded to us onely by way of defence will quickly necessitate us to offend others and expose our selves to the offences of others It is used as a forceable argument to make us imbrace a new League that Caesar is desirous to acquire glory and dominion But I beseech you is not this so proper to every other great Prince as who should be otherwise would be despised by others and by his own subjects Hath not the King of France the same thoughts Shall we peradventure perswade our selves that we shal be at more quiet if we have him for our Neighbour in the State of Millan We have tried oft enough when the French were in Italy how unquiet they are and easie to break peace upon any sleight occasion Wherein hath this ambition of Caesar's hurt us when did he ever ceaze upon any thing that was ours what sign hath he given us of his ill will towards us what necessity have we to be at expence to secure our selves from his mischiefe But on the contrary what dislikes nay what open enmities have there been between the Pope and Emperour what ancient and inveterate hate between the French and Spaniards how great emulation between the Kings of France and House of Austria The French cannot indure Caesar not only out of fear of his greatnesse but for meer hatred to his particular person and measuring things rather according to their desire than to the likelihood of success they would drive him out of Italy But what is there of like in us If we may say truth Caesar hath not onely abstain'd from injuring us but hath alwaies seemed to honour and esteem the Common-wealth very much and hath rather been an instrument to preserve then to disturb our peace How oft and with how much readinesse and affection were it or reall or feighned hath he interposed himself to accommodate our differences with others particularly with his Brother and in the businesse of Marano All men say that he helped much to pacifie Ferdinando why should we then joyn with them iâ— these commotions not having the like cause to take up Arms either for fear or revenge 'T is true we are somewhat troubled at the taking of Millan but it is as true that it was chiefly for our sakes that he went about to replace Duke Francis Sforza in that State and afterwards upon our pressing promised to grant it to the Duke of Orleans though at last by his death and to the almost fatall misfortune of Italy it be fallen again into his own hands and how often hath he asked our advice and seemed chiefly desirous to satisfie us touching what he ought to do concerning
to increase some jealousies that were conceived of him that he as well as the other Italians did not approve of the Imperialists proceedings nor of Caesars own intentions Which suspicion was much increased by the new Fort which they built in Sienna which was commonly called the Ceppo or Stocks of Tuscany The Duke of Ferrara who as vassall to the Church ought to have proceeded with much circumspection following his own dependencies and passions did adhere sufficiently in his minde and in underhand-helps to the French faction Wherefore to keep those that were besieged in Parma from being relieved with victualls and other things from that side the Imperialists had taken Brisello and two other little Castles belonging to the Duke which stood upon those confines The Duke being much moved at these things sent his Embassadour Girolino Serofini to Venice to be advised by the Senate how to govern himself in these hard times and so sad occasions for he was resolved to walk in the same steps the Senate did and follow their wise counsels particularly in keeping himself Neuter but that he had not forces enough of himself to do so So as unlesse he should receive some assistance he feared he must be enforced for the preservation of his State to side with some one and to act contrary to his desire This was thought to be a piece of cunning whereby the French desired to spy into the Venetians intentions that they might draw them into some confederacy or at least discover somewhat more of their meanings Therefore the Senate thought fit to answer in very generall tearms That the Senate had ever desired above all things that the peace of Italy might be preserved to which purpose they had used severall endeavours both with the Pope and others as they saw needfull But since they could do no good thereby they would at least keep themselves in peace and in their former neutrality which that they might do with more honour and safety to the Common-wealth since the rest stood upon their Arms they were resolved to Arme also and by providing for their own affairs they would have respect to the preservation of the Duke's State out of the particular affection which they bore unto his person and for their own interest which by reason of the neighbourhood of their Dominions was almost inseparable from his The French not being satisfied with this answer thought to discover unto the Senate as it was already generally known their intentions of attempting some important novelty in Italy to which purpose the King had sent Luigi Alemanni to Genua to make that City upon severall pretences joyne with his faction and particularly that he might have the use of their Havens for his Fleet to put into and to land the men which he designed to send into Italy And Cardinall Tornone being then at Venice whither he had retired himself when together with the other French Cardinalls he was commanded by the Pope to depart from Rome he was ordered by King Henry to appear in the Colledge and in his name to acquaint the Doge and Senators With the condition of the affairs of Italy with the occasion which had moved him and with his intention to send his forces â—o assist Duke Octavio and to maintain his cause wherein he thought he did a generous act and what became a great Prince and which he thought would please all the Italian Princes since thereby he undertook the defence of a pettty Italian Prince who was unjustly oppress'd by others and who had had recourse to him for protection That he could not dream the Pope would have been displeased that a vassall of his should be preserved by the forces and assistance of another not being able of himself to defend himself and that he did much lesse believe but that the other Italian Princes would be pleased that Cesar 's greatnesse might be moderated and some bounds put to his vast desires which were bent as was clearly seen to thrust the weakest to the wall and to enslave all Italy That the act it self might testifie that his thoughts were bent upon nothing else since he was in a condition as not needing the City of Parma by his being possest of so many Cities in Piâ—mont he had opened his way to what he designed to do against the State of Millan But that â—ince he now understood his actions were otherwise interpreted he had resolved to give it over Yet he could not be perswaded but that the Venetian Senate being so great and so wise a Potentate in Italy and upon whose authority the rest would finally depend would have that care and consideration of these commotions as many other of their important consequences did require That he did excuse what the Pope had done as actions rather of necessity then free-will being overcome with fear both by reason of Cesar 's so great power and of his so many armed men in Italy as also by the Councill already intimated out of weighty and dangerous designes the German Hereticks being to convene therein But that if he could be assured of the company and assistance of other Princes doubtlesly he would be of another minde for to sever himself from Cesar 's friendship in such a condition of affairs might be tearmed a regaining of his liberty The King was very much thank'd for these his overtures and counsells and his generosity in defending those that were the weakest and stood most in need of his assistance was commended and they hoped that by the Agreement wherein the Senate had already interceded with the Pope and which he seemed not to dissent from affairs might be quieted The King for all this did not forbear prosecuting the war though he could not according to his desire hope to meet with any that would receive or favour him therein in Italy except Duke Octavio Nay being now resolved to declare himself more openly against Cesar he sent more souldiers into Piemont and suddainly assaulted severall places that were guarded by Imperiall Garrisons some of which he quickly took and ordered that the Gallies which were forty in number commanded by the Prior of Capua brother to Pietro Strozzi and which roved upon the Seas might upon all occasions evill intreat the Imperiall vessells And it hapned soon after that Doria who as he was conveying Maximilian King of Bohemia and his wife in his Gallies past from Barcellona to Genua scaped narrowly being assaulted and fought with by the French Fleet whereof some Vessells which were behind were notwithstanding taken and carried to Marcelles But the League which the King of France negotiated with Duke Maurice of Saxony with Albertus Marquis of Brandenberg and with other Princes and Hans-Towns of Germany all of them unsatisfied though for differing occasions with Cesar was of much more moment some of them were highly incenst at the Lansgrave being detained prisoner contrary to Cesar's parole as some of those Princes affirmed and others were incited to novelties for fear
that State wherein our proceedings have been so cool and so full of circumspection as we may partly blame our selves if we have not met our desires therein And if he had so great a mind to suppress the Common-wealth as is affirmed when could he have better done it then of late years when we have had our hands full of War with Soliman yet he hath rather indeavour'd our maintaining then our suppressing having sent his Fleet to assist us and he hath increased our honour and our Forces to defend our selves against so powerfull an Enemy by the new confederacy he made with us and if his provisions for War may seem to have been short and tardy in respect of our necessities and desires and that his actions have not been answerable to his promises we must be content to have received such usage as all men do receive by the Law of Nature that he minded more his own interest then that of others and if we measure this very thing more by affection then by true reason it is a usuall thing for humanity to doe so Caesar would assist us to such a degree but he did not think it became him to expose his Fleet to the same danger as we would do ours his cause not being the like to ours He would not sâ—e us fall yet he would not see us grow too powerfull lest he might have reason to apprehend our greatnesse as we now fear his These are passions common to all men and very usuall in Princes but if we weigh all things well we are not onely not necessitated but we have no reason to make Warre with Caesar neither for any injury we have received nor for any we are likely to receive These reasons were the more easily credited because they tended to the preservation of Peace to which every one was of himselfe well inclined and Cesar indeavour'd much to keep them in this mind promising faithfully to preserve Peace and Friendship with the Common-wealth The Pope's and King of France his desires were conformable but by several messengers thus answered That the Senate commended the care they took of the common good and for the defence of their own affairs that they would take example by them and watch the more narrowly over their State which they thought would prove a sufficient remedy at this time against such dangers as were to be feared wherefore they saw no reason of comming to a straicter and more particular union by which they might provoke such as went about to disturb the Peace Though the Pope nor King of France were not well satisfied with this answer yet they seemed to be so to keep from alienating the Venetians further from them hoping that they might at last be brought to alter their minds and adhere unto them therefore praysing the mature wisdom of that Senate they said that Cesars intentions which could no longer be concealed being now better discovered and the world believing no longer that they had ambitious ends they would speedily resolve upon assured and good grounds to secure the affairs of the Common-â—ealth and of all Italy But though the hopes of any good successe in their indeavours against the Emperour were lessened by this the Venetians resolution yet the Pope's and the King of France his desire of taking up Arms was not much lessened which they were kept from doing rather by the difficultie of the businesse then for any want of will But though they could not use open force the French and the Ferneses held private intelligence in divers Cities of Italy particularly in Genua Sienna and Millan Cities which were infected with humours of severall factions and therefore the more easie to mutiny for that upon finding a good Inclination to Novelties they might with the lesse forces compasse their designs It is certainly worth consideration to think how great human Imperfection is and into how many excesses they fall who give themselves over in prey to their own affections Pope Paul who was a very wise man so many years vers'd in the waightiest affairs of the World being by the unavoydable laws of nature brought to the extream period of life yet being carried away by vast designs and irregulate thoughts did not value the exposing Himselfe his Family the Church and all Italy to the greatest labours and dangers of eminent ruine by taking up Arms against Cesar so powerfull and so prosperous a Prince at a time when he had whole Germany to joyn with him which was implacably offended against the Pope and Court of Rome for the difference of Religion for the counsell given by the Pope to Cesar to wage War with them and for not being able to obtain that the Councill of Trent which they had so earnestly desired and which was now granted should be perfected and on the other side he being so ill provided of men monies and friends to withstand so great a force of War as he drew upon him and being bereft amongst those Hereticks of that sacerdotall Majesty and respect by which Popes have kept themselves free from injuries more then by forces which things being seen and well known by the Venetians they were much troubled at insomuch as though their Counsels were not listned too and suspected they forbare not notwithanding when they found the Pope after their answer still resolute in his former opinion modestly to represent unto him these things so worthy of consideration to which he had sometimes given ear when his reason prevailed over his sense wishing him therefore to be somewhat more circumspect in these his intentions and in delivering himselfe as it were a prey into the power of the French The next year 1548. was spent in almost the same Negotiations in indeavours of Leagues secret Treaties Princes machinations upon other mens estates preparations for Arms and in a desire of attempting novelties but without any great effect or commotion For though the King of France did very much desire to trouble the affairs of Italy so to keep Cesar's thoughts and forces busied there yet he thought his hopes in the Pope were but small who was already very old in almost a decrepit age having little mony and peradventure no constant resolution to maintain the war if any accommodation should at any time be proposed by the Emperour as might easily happen by his alliance with Octavio Fernese He saw the Venetians resolved though Arms should be taken up not onely to keep their neutrality but so joyned in amity by the friendship of so many years with Cesar as he thought it impossible to divide them He had also a minde and had already turned much of his forces to prosecute war against the English hoping by reason of many divisions risen between the Governours of the young King in point of religion and out of particular contentions not onely to defend Scotland by vertue of the marriage between the young Queen thereof and his eldest son who was destin'd to be her husband but