Duke of Savoy is much prest by the French and Spaniards at last he resolves to satisfie the French Duke Waymer takes pay of the King of France Oxesterne goes from Germany for Swethland The Austrians make divers proceedings about the Rhyn The Dutchmen come to the succour of the Valteline Great confusion in the state of Milan by reason of the French Hostilitie The Spaniards helpe them Artois is assayled by the French Forces and much of action is had in those parts The Duke of Saxony indeavours to shun breaking with the Swedes but cannot prevaile they declare themselves his Enemies The King of Hungary comes into the Field he passes into Wirtenberg and hath an eye to the proceedings of the French The Austrians indeavour to put distastes betweene France and England but faile in their designe The Duke of Bavaria is married to the Emperours Daughter The Spaniards surprise Sckinck-Sconce The Duke of Crequi passes into Monferrat enters the state of Milan takes many places encamps before Valenza The Milanois are hereat much affraid Rohan proceeds sâccessefully in the Valteline The Hollanders goe to regaine Schinck-Sconce The Forces of Parma and Savoy joyne with the French before Valenza The Spaniards complaine unto the Pope of the Duke of Parma The Duke in a Remonstrance publisheth his Reasons The Spaniards make great preâarations for the defence of Milan by a Fleet at Sea they surprise the Island of S. Honore and S. Marguerit WHilst the Imperiall Forces to the wonder of many remained idle in their Quarters at Wirtenberg Lieutenant Colonell Iaspar Baumberger formerly Governour at Filisburg he who before he surrendred that place to the Swedes cunningly and peradventure with intention of making use thereof upon fitting occasion made the Palizadoes to be saw'd on some sides of the Fort and to be so repleated that if at any time any reasonable force should be used against them they might be broken in sunder and throwne downe the season serving for this purpose which was so cold as that all the Ditches were hard frozen over and incouraged by the good correspondency which he held with all the parts thereabouts for whilst he had the government of that place he so behaved himselfe as he had generally wonne the good will of all the neighbouring people not doing as the French who by making continuall inrodes into the neighbouring Townes and by other different wayes of proceeding and Military licentiousnesse had purchased the peoples hatred did secretly acquaint the King of Hungary and some other prime Counsellours and Chiefe Commanders of the Caesarian Army with his designe Who debating hereupon some were of a contrary opinion affirming That the event of a businesse must be maturely fore-seene before the businesse it selfe be undertaken that it was well knowne how that Fort was valued by the French what trouble and paines they had to get it from the Swedes and that therefore it was not to be doubted that as the losse would be more resented so would the distaste they should take thereat be the greater that it was not yet time to come to open enmitie with the French who were at peace within themselves had recovered their Kings Brother and who united within themselves were of themselves alone without any other assistance formidable to all Europe a Nation alwayes desirous of Warre which could not wish for a better occasion then such a conjuncture to breake with the Spaniards being as well their greatest Enemies as their chiefest Rivalls and who by having an Army out of their Kingdome might thereby evacuate those unquiet humours wherewithall they doe abound and which uses to occasion home-troubles amongst them very advantagious to those that feare them and without which all attempts against them are vaine that Flanders was not able at one and the same time to maintaine it selfe against the Hollanders and defend it selfe against the French who might easily fall upon Artois that the Forces of Burgondy were too small to defend it selfe from those much more powerfull of a King of France that Italy which was drained by the continuall evacuation of so many men sent into Germany and Flanders most Princes being at this crisis of time well inclined towards the French might run a great hazard if it should at this time be set upon that it was no doubt that either Flanders or Italy without succour from Germany could make their partie good against the French that it was credible that the Spaniards who were much concerned in the possession of those Provinces were to expect succour from the Emperour whereby the Dutch Army being weakned the Swedes joyning consequently with the French Forces the Warre was likely to be kept on Foot in the Empire to the great prejudice of those people that it was therefore better for them to temporise and persisting in the way they were in before they should breake with France to weaken the Swedes re-assume a good correspondency with the Hanse-Townes and conclude the peace with Saxony without the which it would be dangerous for them to have to doe with the French To these wel-grounded Reasons reply was made by those who knew how advantagious it was to make Achievements without cost That occasions of securing themselves and growing greater were not to be let slip when Fortune proffers the meanes that the proceedings of the French were no longer concealed that the harmes occasioned by them were apparently seene how they indeavoured to oppresse the house of Austria and aggrandise themselves that the blowes of a declared Enemy were lesse to be feared then those of a diffident and feigned friend that it was to be considered the French would alwayes foment the Austrians Enemies and strongly assist them out of hopes of getting somewhat thereby and that keeping themselves in peace whilst others were by the eares as others grew weaker they must consequently grow the stronger that the proceedings of the French out of France was not much to be feared for that the impatiency and eagernesse of that Nation not being long to be tollerated by others of a different genius 't was probably to be hoped they might alter the affections and friendship of their Confederates that it made not for any of the other Protestants that they should get footing out of France that it would be hard for them to make any proceedings in Flanders by reason of the strong holds and situation thereof that it was held the Hollanders would never agree they should grow greater in those parts That Burgundy wanted not Forts upon the Frontiers sufficient to consume whatsoever Army and that the losse of that Countrey would be prejudiciall to Helvetia whereunto it was not expedient to change the Confines of a King whose Territories were dis-joyned with those of a formidable Monarch whose state was united that more might be feared in Italy then elsewhere but since it made not for the advantage of the Princes and Potentates thereof that the state of Milan should be taken from the Spaniards and
of men to be raised in the State with whom to incompasse the French who when they should see themselveâ invironed on all sides by the Spanyards would either be forced to fight upon disadvantage or to forsake their station Hee therefore acquainted Cardinall Triuulsio herewithall who in hiâ absence was governour of Milan and hee being a wise man caused Proclamation to bee made that all the Militia of the neighbouring parts should be mustered and that 4000. Foot should bee chosen out of them part of which were in lieu of the Forreyners which were taken from the Forts and left in their placesâ that these should joyn with the other Militia's of the parts about Lodeggian Cremona and Mount-Brianza and the Governour of Allessandria having gathered together other troops of souldiers on the other side to which 800. Swissers being added which were just then come into the State of Millan and to all those five hundred Horse which which were sent from the siege of Vercelles another bodie of an Armie was framed whereof though the greatest part were unexperienced men yet were they sufficient to effect the thing desired With these the Cardinall and Don Martin Gallicano Master of the Campe accompanied with a great many of the Gentry of Millan came to Vigerano and from thence by orders from Leganes they advanced towards the Fort Sandavall with intention that if the French should keepe their station in the Sesia they should set upon them on their backes whilst Leganes should charge them on the Front and so force them from thence with much losse But the French fore-seeing what might ensue with-drew their Cannon from the said Island and returned towards their former Quarters about Saint Germans intending to waite a better oportunity to relieve the Towne The Spaniards being by this retreate the more encouraged and encreasing their offensives against the Towne the Governour seeing the French were retreated and thereby finding how hard a matter it would bee for the Towne to bee relieved agreed by the joynt consent of all the chiefe Officers of the Garrison to come to a Treaty before they were reduced to a greater necessity For the number of of the Defendants were much lessened by their continuall sallyes and they much feared the Mynes made by the Spanyards underneath their wals He therefore sent out a Gentleman called Ogliacy to treate with Leganes Hostages were given on both sides and it was agreed upon that they should march out with their Armes and Baggage and with three pieces of Cannon and with the body of the late Duke Victorio Amedio All this was performed on the fifth of Iuly to the great rescentment of the Dutchesse who greatly complaining against the Spanyards for their using such Hostility whilest during the Duke her Husbands life they rather seemed desirous of neutrality and good correspondency with him then to come to profest enmity They by their Printed Manifestoes moderated the exclamations of the Inhabitants of Piemont and endeavoured by colourable appearances to cure the Jealousies which the other Italian Princes might receive by this who are greatly endammaged by every new acquisition made by the Spanyards in Italy The contents were That the Duke of Savoy had not only joyned with the French to the prejudice of the Crowne of SPAINE but the French being every day brought in great numbers by the Dutchesse into the Townes of PIEMONT they were come so neare to the King of SPAINES Territories that in all reasons the SPANYARDS were to secure themselves from the incursions of their enemies That Vercelles was taken not to bereave the Duke of Savoy of what was his though all things gotten by armes in faire War is lawfull but to prevent the French from getting thereinto under pretence of friendship which would bee very dis-advantagious to the State of Milan That the King of Spaine who was so great a Monarch of so many Kingdomes was contented with his own vast Dominions and needed not to care for a little Farme of the Prince of Piemonts and that they would at all times be ready to restore what they had taken when the French would doe the like for what they had usurped from the Princes of the House of Austria These excuses availed but a little to pacifye those of Piemont who mightily afraid knew not whether to turne themselves for on the one side they were displeased with the Spaniards as expecting to have their Countrey ruinated and themselves opprest by them on the other side they were but ill satisfied with the French for being the Authors of the Warre and not being able to defend them they saw that all their mischiefe had its rise from them so at it was easily seene they shewed not such affection towards them as at the first But you may give loosers leave to talke These mens laments were little valued by the Spaniards and lesse by the French for each of them minded onely what made most for their owne Interest Some notwithstanding who will not let any thing passe uncensured by them said that if the Spaniards actions were mysterious the French had likewise their ends in their designes and were not lesse deepe therein For though the Spaniards by taking of Vercelles had opened their way into Piemont and had made the French-men lose the good will of the Piemontesians and by the comming of Prince Thomas were likely to effect their desires of getting into the best Towne of Piemont and by bereaving the French thereof to strengthen Montferrat the more 't was notwithstanding seene that this might prove but a baite to draw them into some dangerous precipice For by the addition of so many Conquests causing Jealousie in the other Princes of Italy they might easily draw on a League against them from which if nothing else should have ensued the very taking up of Armes by those Princes was of Notable consequence for it would occasion the disbanding of the Spanish Army and make it a more difficult matter for them to raise men for the service of the Crowne of Spaine Since the souldiers partly weary with the sufferings of War partly allured by the desire to change fortune and to get new advance of pay partly through the feare which they brought with them from Naples into Lombardy and others being called for backe by their naturall Princes would have much lessened their Companies by their flight So as what by those who were run away and what by those that were slaine in service the State of Milan would be reduced to such a scarcity of defenders as the French might easily have flown in upon those parts The Hollanders going into the Fields and the newes which was spread abroad in France by their partakers and such as desired it should bee so that they were before Antwerpe which caused no little confusion in the people of those Provinces encouraged the French to undertake the siege of Saint Omers which though it were an enterprize of great difficulty yet was it the
Caesar. The Elector was much troubled at this Embassy and being much amazed he called together his Councell of State before he would give his answer where the Austrian proceedings being narrowly examined and the Elector being found to suffer much in his reputation by such like pretences he being a free Prince and Lord over his owne and finding that this was a very fit occasion to draw from him a manifestation of those injuries which he pretended to have received and an opportune time to free himselfe of those jealousies which the greatnesse of the House of Austria had caused in him he using but few words told Shamburg that he had alwayes been a good Servant to his imperiall Majesty and had alwayes shewed his affection to his dignity and that he did not know any occasion he had given Caesar to complaine that he would alwayes continue the same but that to declare himselfe in this present immergency now that a puissant and numerous Army was incampt so neere his State would be a means to draw the warre upon himselfe which he ought not to doe that therefore he would still keepe himselfe a Newter and that he would not be faulty to his Caesarian Majesty in any duty which he acknowledged to owe him Shamburg returned to Tilly who exceedingly longed to heare what answer he would bring backe and when he had heard it was no wayes pleased with it but thought he had the meanes in his owne hands to bring the Elector to doe what he desired by force if his proffers words and protestations would not prevaile He therefore resolved to rise from Hall and to set upon such townes of the Dukes as were in the circuit of the Sall having to this purpose sent all his Horse into the Saxon Territories He with his foot incamped himself before Naumberg a place watered by the Sall not farre from Lipsick he raised two Batteries against it and the place being but meanly man'd and fortified he in two dayes took it from thence pursuing his victory he possest himselfe of Weisnfeld Neremburg and all the neighbouring Castles and being come neer the gates of Leypzicke he in friendly manner demanded refreshment and contribution monyes of the Citizens and that they would suffer his Souldiers to quarter within their wals This news being come to the Elector did much puzzell him and his Councell he knew no other remedy but either to give way to the Imperialists forces since his owne Army was not sufficient to defend so large a Territory and which wanted necessary strong holds or else to put himselfe into the Swedes protection much discourse being had hereupon it was thought at last that it would be better for the Electour and more for his reputation to defend himselfe against his Enemies then basely as if he were overcome to yield unto their desires yet some that were present at the Consultation wisely ballancing the affaires were of opinion that he should rather yield to Tillyes desires then draw upon him Caesars ill will alleadging the little good the Palatine Denmarke and others had of late got by doing the contrary That the King of Sweden was a stranger Prince who had but few helpes lesse a great deale then those who had formerly undertaken the same that he wanted the Sinnews of money and that he chiefly relyed upon hopes from others that one onely blow would make him make hast backe to Sweden and leave those unwary ones to the pleasure of Caesars Sword who had unluckily beene by him perswaded and had followed his fortune That Ferdinands Forces were big with reputation and by their so many Victories and Conquests had established unto themselves a large foundation that the tree could not be pluckt up which being fast rooted by many adherents and so great Subsistency greater forces then its owne not lesser were requisite to move it That wise Princes ought alwaies to reflect upon the events which were not to suffer any youthfull examination That warre was alwayes to be shund when the entertaining of it could not be but prejudiciall that by the sole forces of the Electorat sufficient resistance could not be made that therefore they must demand helpe from the Swedes to whom they must grant that which they now deny unto the Emperour that it had been wont to be held dangerous to call in Auxiliary forces since what is by them defended from the injuries of others is by them pretended unto as if they had wonne it and therefore 't is seldome seen that they forsake such places as are given to them for Caution Others said that the Emperour was got to too great a height that such greatnesse ought not to be tolerated much lesse fomented by wise Princes That the Austrians were known to be declared Enemies to their Sect and consequently to that Dukedome whereunto under a pious pretence of introducing the Romish faith they would bring their armies and therewithall use such Charity as they had done elsewhere That the greater the Roman Catholicks grew the Protestants went so much the lesse that the comming of the King of Sweden was acknowledged to be miraculous and to be a divine punishment to those who in their victories abusing fortunes-favour cloath'd themselves with too much ambition that nothing else was to be beleived for fortune cannot chuse but smile on the bold adventures of a warlike King that such Commanders were great helpes to their Armies that past examples had shewed them how prejudiciall a thing it is to let go the occasion of keeping those low whom we feare as was proved in the insurrection of Bohemia for if the Palatine keeping himselfe in his regall throne had given bounds to the Austrian power the name of Elector would have been more reverenced that it hath been held a maxime that we should not be unmindefull to assist the weaker to the end that the ballance being kept even the greater weight may not fall upon ones owne weaknesse that the intentions of the Austrians were not now unknowne that now was the time to moderate their designes and to shake off that yoake which if they should resume they would not so easily finde a hand to ease them of it Harnem the Dukes Generall was therefore dispatch'd away to the King who keeping fast in his station did longingly expect what would be the end of Tillyes designe upon the State of Saxony Harnem was received by the King with great demonstrations of love as hee alwayes used to receive those that came unto him for he much coveted to captivate mens good wils by kindnesse and affability being wont to say that the love of Souldiers and other men was thereby more won then by severe gravity Harnem having made known unto him what the Austrians proceedings had been against the Duke his Master and what their vast designes were intreated him in his Masters name that his Majesty would send him assistance and come to the succour of Leypzik the losse whereof would not onely prove
prejudiciall to his dominion but to the whole interest of the Protestants but the King willing to let the Electour see how ill he had beene advised whilst being able to releive Magdeburg by the preservation whereof his estate would have likewise been secure and whilst he was intreated by him the King to afford him passage and to joyne with him he had denyed to do so and had sent backe the messenger with resolutions no wayes profitable did coolly answer Harnem That his Master had himselfe drawne the warre upon him by having slighted his Counsell or rather for having refused what was by him propounded That his highnesse had some Counsellors about him that were Spaniolised that he needed not poynt out unto him whither the Austrian Monarchy tended for it was apparently seen by former examples that having supprest the liberty of the Hauns townes and the Princes of the Empire he aimed meerly at the Command over all Europe that he knew not how to helpe him for that his designe was to lead his forces elsewhere and that he was very much troubled at this accident which had befallen the Duke Harnem answered with words drawne from the inmost of his heart and which were accompanied with some teares that fell from his eyes that his Majesty as a wise and curteous Prince as a gracious propagator of the faith and as the defender of German liberty ought to forget any thing the Elector had done amisse which had beene occasioned through feare and bad Counsell not out of any diffidence he had of his Majesties friendship to the which he should forever acknowledge himselfe oblieged That Princes are oft times blinded by their interest of state and oft times so hoodwinckt as that they could not refuse the counsels of their Ministers that the wellfare of the publique ought to be preferred before what ever private respect that a Prince ought to forget such things wherein they have not received satisfaction when the doing so redounds to their advantage that reason of state is alwayes furnish't with so choice a disguise as in an instant it can turne the most threatning browes of an enemy into the pleasing countenance of a friend and as soone change the cleer aspect of a favourite into a troubled face The King who did indeed desire nothing more then this though he seemed to feigne the contrary not objecting any thing to these his expressions answered That he would be contented to come aid the Elector upon condition that for his better caution and security hee might have the Fort of Wittenberg delivered up into his hands which is a very strong hold seated upon the Elb in a most pleasant Country begirt with Parrapits and bastions of the latest edition well peopled and a place of great Importance standing between Lusatia and the Bishopricke of Hall as if it were the Center of those two Provinces the key which opens and shuts the way into Saxony That he might receive money for two payments of his Army and that his excellencies eldest sonne might be sent to him and kept by him as an hostage of his fidelity Harnem by speedy post acquainted his Master with these answers whose state was now in great confusion and feare and who returned as speedy answer to the King That not onely Wittenberg but his whole state was at his Command that the money for the Army should forthwith be disbursed and that he himselfe together with his sonne would hasten to come and serve him These Articles being signed by the King and by Harnem in behalfe of the Elector they agreed upon a time of meeting likewise with the Elector of Brandenburg and other confederate Princes The Duke having brought his men to Torgaw between Wittenberg and Dresda upon the Elb and mustering them there he found them to be 16000. fighting men allowing thereunto some of the Country Troops with 28 peeces of Cannon and a very well furnished baggadge hee marched towards Wittenberg where the King appointed to meet him by the first of September Tilly this meane time had invested the wals of Leypzik on divers sides striking feare into the Citizens thereof who were men not verst in warre but for the most part brought up in merchandising insomuch as they saw they could not resist the strong batteries which beat downe their towers on all sides and did presage unto them the unlucky example of Magdeburg They therefore sent forth deputies to speake with Tilly who concluded that the City should be surrendred on Condition that they might enjoy their liberty of Conscience that the Saxon Garrison should march out with their weapons and baggadge and that the City should bee burthened with nothing else but the payment of 200000 Dollers in prosecution whereof on the sixth of September Tilly made his entrance into the Town with the great applause of the Roman Catholique Army Leypzik is seated in a large Champion between the Elb and the Sall watered by the River Elster and the River Pleis which falling into Elster under the very walls of the Towne loses its name This place being seated betwixt the utmost parts of upper Saxony and Misnia and almost in the very heart of Germany is a place of much Traffique aswell in respect of the great concourse of people as of the rich merchandise by reason of the many Faires that are there kept but her fortifications are imperfect and after the ancient manner This meane while the Kings Army and the Electors being joyned and the King seeing himselfe now growne to sufficient strength to give him battell in the field upon which the Totall of this contention did consist he raised his Tents from about Wittenberg on the fourth of September past over the Elb and with speedy march tooke his way towards Leypzik that he might relieve the City but hearing by the way that the Letters written by the Elector to the chiefe Magistrate of the Towne wherein he acquainted him of his being joyned with the King and of the speedy reliefe they were bringing exhorting him in the meane while stoutly to defend the Towne were intercepted by the Imperialists and that now the City was in the power of the Romanists he stayed in the Fields about Bitterfelt and Dieben Towns between the Elb and the River Tena aswell to expect fresh Troops of Souldiers as to informe himselfe better of the Enemies condition that he might betake himselfe to the best resolution Tilly on the other side advertised of the Swedes being joyned with Saxony was much incensed against the Elector and desirous to revenge himselfe for the injury received encouraged by the confidence he had in his Souldiers valour who were acquainted with nothing but victory though he might better have effected his designes by waiting for Aldringer who was not farre off yet not able to appease himselfe he marched out of Leypzik drew his Army into the Fields put it into Battell-array placed his Artillery in the most advantagious places fortified passages
by nourishing the differences between the Princes of the bloud and thereby to affoord fuell to the flames of Ambition to kindle a new intestine warre sufficient to disturbe the Forces of that great King aswell by deviating them from his intentions upon the State of Milan which in this conjuncture was much feared as to withhold from thence that assistance which the Protestants expected To this purpose 't is said they sent some of their trustiest creatures concealedly to treate with the Duke of Orleans and other chiefe men that were discontented with the government of the Ministers of State in France not letting slip any thing that might hurle the French into those straights whereunto they were leaning for many were afraid that if the French had declared themselves in this so calamitous time after a hostile manner all their preparations would doubtlesly have been much perplext if not totally shipwrackt but for that when God extends his hand of protection over a crowned head all the plots and hatreds of their envyers are rendred uselesse many considered that the Emperour Ferdinand the second had not a little merited from Heaven whilest Princes and people jealous of the Austrian greatnesse and conspiring together to suppresse the same in stead of embracing an opportune occasion of laying the Emperour upon his backe betooke themselves to things of uncertainty and which concerned their private interests so those armes which openly joyned together would have ruined the Empire being unresolved and expecting what the event of others would be stayed from declaring themselves till such time as the prevailing Forces of the Swedes growing weaker and the Imperiall power in time gathering force they should finde it a hard matter to abate the edge of that strength which was inheartned by the experience of Armies and was made more stable by being shaked Rome increasing under Romulus had the good fortune that whilest she was fought withall by diverse Nations she was not set upon by all at once And whereas being all united they had overcome her they severally were by her overcome and by their ruine affoorded leisure to lay the foundations of the Roman Monarchy It is a truth not to be doubted of that if the French not inferiour in strength to the Austrians and who knew the Imperiall greatnesse ought to have been suppressed had followed the King of Swedes fortune and openly have drawn their swords as afterwards they were inforced to doe they would either have brought the Imperiall dignity to make peace upon their owne conditions or else have led it to some great exigency That fire that is not quencht by a little water gathering more strength and breaking forth in greater flames will not afterwards give way to greater store of water Whence it may be gathered that when a Prince may by his advancing prejudice his Enemy whilest his Enemy is busied on one side he ought not to stand idle on the other for 't is well knowne that those Forces which have overcome their first withstanders made wiser by experience grow keener and better edged against the second Knowing moreover that the only Austrian Forces was not sufficient in such an emergency as this to withstand the evils threatned by the victories and well conducted Armies of the Swedes and of so many other enemies whose numbers by their greatnesse and command was increased they sent first the Cardinall d' Arach Walesteines kinsman to the Pope and after him Duke Savell who being found innocent was absolved of the faults laid unto his charge by Tilly out of some private ill will that he bore him with pressing and earnest desires of being from his Holinesse assisted with good store of monies and newes was brought that the Pope had voted a considerable summe of money to be sent the Emperour though it were demanded with too much pretensions by the Austrian Ministers of State and advised for the interest of their Countrey by some Cardinals of the Spanish Faction and that they knew his Holinesse to be very carefull of the good of Christendome whilest by continuall exhortations he had endeavoured the safety of Lombardy against the fury which the Forces bent without regard upon the destruction of Mantua threatned by whose example the Christian Princes very well perceived that to foment the greatnesse of puissant Princes was nothing else but to nurse up a Serpent in ones bosome which at last would poison its benefactor as it would have proved in past times if the French and Swedes diversions had not recalled those Forces from Italy which neither the prayets exhortations nor protestations of the Pope could prevaile withall to make them turne backe they also sent to other Potentates and Princes of Italy the Count Rabata then Governour of Gradisca no lesse powerfull with his pen then with his sword a gentleman of singular understanding in any affaire who was very much welcomed by them all with many complements but their expeditions proved unusefull When the Enemy watches we must not be asleep therefore if Walesteine did by these new inventions recruit his Army that he might in the Spring appeare in the Field The King of Sweden growne hardy by his victory and other happy successes sent newes of this his prosperous proceedings to such Princes States and Cities as were his friends and disswading the Hauns Townes and Princes of the Empire from assisting his Enemy he did not sit still in this his prosperity but printing a Declaration wherein was contained that he would take aswell Roman Catholiques as Protestants into his protection that he might not lose time but make use of his fortune he resolved forthwith to march with his Army into Franconia This Province extends it selfe on the West and South side to the Confines of the upper and lower Palatinate on the East to Bohemia and Misnia and on the North side to Thuringia so as it may be called the Center of Germany it is partly plaine and partly adorned with pleasant hills of a fruitfull soile though in some parts sandy 'T is watered by the Rivers Mayne Aisah Ridnits Bints Stray Tawber and others to the no little advantage of the Inhabitants The King agreed with the Elector of Saxony how he should behave himselfe in the Kingdome of Bohemia he left Bannier and Tod Marshals of the Field with other great Officers behinde aswell that they might drive from the Confines of Pomerania such of the Emperours Garrisons as yet remained there as likewise that they might endeavour to win Magdeburg and other Townes held by the Caesarians in the lower Saxony and he himselfe parted from Hall upon the River of Sall towards Erfurt the chiefe City of Thuringia This Province is seated between the Rivers Sall and Wesser by which it is much enriched 't is well peopled abounding in Corne Hay and many sorts of Beasts it bounds on the South side upon Franconia on the West upon the Landsgrave of Hessen his Country on the North it is covered with the Herecinian Wood
it is to be beleeved that the rest of the Cities betweene Mâlda and Danube would have done the like had not the Saxons themselves set a period to the progresse of their victories for being carelesse and idle in Praga and the adjacent parts though the King had by many redoubled Letters advised and desired the Elector not to affoord Walesteine leasure to apply remedies unto their wounds they gave themselves over to the delights of those parts and gave the Imperialists opportunity to recruite their Army and affoorded Galas meanes to come with good store of Forces to Pilsâm a place of great importance in that Kingdom very strongly seated by the which afterwards those Territories were secured The King did not a little rescent this as appeared by his Letters wherein he reproved the Elector of negligence though many of the wisest found it to be done out of cunning for it was apparently seene that fearing by his assistance to raise the Swedish Forces to too great a power and eminency and considering that in such a case he must be subject to their Lawes he temporized that he might affoord the Austrians leisure to counterpoise this greatnesse which weighed down too much on the Swedes side beleeving himself now to be in such a condition as that he at his pleasure might upon advantagious tearmes be reconciled to the Emperour and re-assumed into his former friendship and correspondency whilest the King reaped the fruit of his owne propitious fortune his Cosen the Duke of Mechelberg and Marshall Tod laid seidge to Rostock and tooke it 3000 Foot and 300 Horse marched out of it with their Armes and Baggage the surrender of this Towne was caused by reason of the scarcity of Victuals for so great a number as were there for a great many of the neighbouring Inhabitants had with-drawn themselves thither as likewise many Souldiers that were quartered in the townes thereabouts Bannier came with a fresh Army of about 8000 men into Pomerania and used such diligence in the investing of Vansleber as the Imperialists that were therein unexpectedly surprised straightned in time to put themselves in a defensive posture and having no hopes of escaping for they were surrounded on all sides came to agreement submitting themselves to the Swedes Conditions by whom the Common Souldiers were inforced to inroll themselves under their Colours and the Captaines and Officers were permitted to go into their owne Armies Bannier knowing how advantagious the taking of Magdeburg and the neighbouring Townes would be to the Swedes march'd forwards into that Episcopacy whither also went Benecausem with 5000 Imperialists to ballance the Swedes designes and to relieve the City which 't was feared might be by them taken he fought with the enemies Horse where the Swedes were worsted he notwithstanding beset Magdeburg more straightly into which a succour of 14 Companies of the Romanists Foot were put who by their frequent Sallies did much annoy the Swedish quarters which were thereabouts Auxillius Oxesterne Lord Chancellor of Sweden who had raised men in that Kingdome and in Prusia to re-inforce the Kings Army came much about this time to the Camp with 6000 Foot and 800 Horse so as the King not onely inriched by so many Victories but his Army being increased by the addition of these men had his thoughts hightened and aymed at greater enterprises Wherefore being informed that the Duke of Bavaria made extraordinary preparations for warre and that he had not onely made the greatest part of the country-people guirt swords about them but also sent for Tilly with the Army of the League to protect the upper Palatinat which were manifest tokens of feare whereby the Enemy is oft times invited to further undertakings hee resolved to hinder those preparations and not to afford him time to salve the wound he had received But thinking it first requisite to know the resolution of the Hauns Townes who intended to be but lookers on at this sport not siding with either party he resolved to found their intentions wherefore he acquainted them of Noremberg with his meanings he made knowne unto them the foundation and drift of his Forces and desired they would openly declare themselves either as friends or enemyes and that they would not take any long time to doe it for if they should demurre upon their answer or colour it with any appearing excuses he would take it as an expresse denyall for he liked not neutrallity nor would he take notice of any more then two parties friends or enemies These resolute words of a victorious King were of great efficacy especially amongst the Protestants who coveted much to see their Religion propagated and were ambitious of novelty The States of Noremberg after much debate judged it would be best for them openly to declare themselves as friends unto the King the which they did whereat Tilly was so incensed as though those of Noremberg sent Deputies into the Campe unto him to informe him of the necessity that had enforced them thereunto and so plead their excuse for so doing they could not prevaile with him nor keep him from expressing his rage anger which was the greater by how much greater the losse was that this declaration occasioned by beating his feet against the ground pulling his Muschatoes biting his fingers ends and vowing he would study some way of revenge he forthwith marched towards Rotemberg and Oxemfert two Townes in the midst of Franconia and surprized divers other places of the said Province which could neither be maintained nor succoured in time he likewise endeavoured the taking of Vertheim a strong City seated upon the Maine and in the mouth of Tawber but here he missed his marke for the King having early notice thereof gave the Governour of the Towne so timely advertisement as he furnished it with all requisite provisions he therefore turned his course towards Noremberg resolving to chastise the Governour thereof for his breach of faith but here he likewise missed of his errand for the Citizens having timely provided themselves of all things necessary and the Imperialists not having sufficient Force for such an enterprize and having the Swedes on his backe who gallantly marched after him after having feelingly exprest his resentments to the chiefe Magistrate of the Towne and with great fervency exhorted him not to be failing in his due allegeance to the Emperour he quitted his quarters and tooke his way towards the upper Palatinate recommending Lauffe and Hasperg places belonging to the jurisdiction of the said Noremberg to the care of One Thousand Foot and One Hundred Horse which he left there for their defence he distributed his Troopes part for the Marpuessate of Anspack in the upper Palatinate and part for Suetia The King who very well knew how much it made for his vast designes aswell to make himselfe Master of the Towns upon the Rheine as to bereave the Austrians of the helpe which they might have from thence and that he might turne himselfe towards
bridle the Inhabitants aswell of the one as of the other circle moreover besides the securing of what he had already wonne there was hereby a way opened to ends not yet knowne He gave it the name of Gustavemborg though through the Souldiers playing upon the Roman Catholiques it came to be called the Priests scourge alleadging thereby that being seated in the sight of Mentz and in the very midst of the Electorate it was fit to keep the neighbouring Prelates in obedience and under the yoake of the Swedish Forces Having left order for the perfecting of this Fabricke and for the preservation of Mentz he with his Army marched in Ianuary against Spier the Magistry whereof endeavoured though in vaine to keep Newters for the King having declared himselfe to be an Enemy to that name this Towne accorded as did likewise Wormes Landaw and Weissenburg Cities beyond the Rhen in the lower Palatinate beguiât only with ancient walls these submitted themselves unto the King quartered some of the Swedish Regiments and parted with some monies to free themselves from the insolency of the souldiers Franckendal and Heidelberg Townes well provided with men victuals and Fortifications were the only two places that held out against the King For though they were at this time set upon with much violence they undauntedly defended themselves and rendred the attempts of the Enemy vaine who held it not fit to lose time before such Forts since they were Masters of the Field and consequently might over-run whole Provinces and hinder the new recruiting of the Enemyes Army Franckendal lyes in an open Countrey between Spier and Wormes surrounded with gallant Bulwarkes Ditches and Rampiers it was anciently the chiefe strength the Elector Palatine had but since the overthrow in Bohemia it was held by the Austrians Heidelberg is seated upon the Nâcker in the mouth of two Mountaines upon which the Palace and Castle stands and here the Count Palatine had wont to keep his residence before the Emperor bereft him of his state At the same time that the Swedish Forces meeting with lesse opposition did over-run the Countrey that lyes upon the Rhen and Franconia Popenheime having drawne out the greatest part of the Garrisons from the places upon the Wesser and out of the Countrey of Brounswyck they being knowne to be little available to the preservation of those places weake in situation and Fortification and having gathered together a Body of men to about 10000 Souldiers he recovered Barleben upon the Elb which made no great resistance from thence he passed towards Magdeburg to relieve the besieged for being beleaguerd by Bannier they were reduced to some necessity and herein his successe was good For Bannier understanding his approach and thinking the Romanists Army to be much greater then his withdrew himselfe aside to Kalbe upon the banks of Elb. Here he tooke up his Quarter in an advantagious Seat shunning to fight for the King having given generall directions to all his Commanders who were disjoyned from the Army that himselfe led that without great advantage and certainty of victory they should shun comming to a generall conflict he temporised betaking himselfe only to such enterprises as agreed with the Kings instructions whose ends was to keep the Imperialists Forces severed in sundry places that he might have the more freedome to make his desired Conquests and to beat the maine Body of the Roman Catholiques which when he should have done the members thereof would be of no use Pappenheim having thus raised the siege though he failed in some intentions he had of falling upon the Swedes Quarters who had withdrawne themselves further off entred Magdeburg and straightway sent his Van-guard towards Gomeren a place belonging to the jurisdiction of the Bishop thereof upon the Confines of Saxony but hee began no sooner to march then he was advertised that George Duke of Lunenburg a Protestant Prince and who adhered to the Swedes was drawing neere to Wolfenbuttell a place of great moment which made him thinke it requisite to turne his march thitherward for this Towne standing in the Center of the territories of Brounswyck and being strongly seated upon the River Alre being likewise the place of refuge for the Imperialists and the Arsenall of their Army by meanes whereof their Forces in those parts did wholly subsist if it should have fallen into the Swedes power either by holding intelligence or otherwise it would have been a great advantage to the Protestants Forces and a very great blow unto the Roman Catholiques hee therefore drew out the Garrison from Magdeburg and knowing it would be a difficult matter to maintaine it he slighted it breaking downe the Wals in sundry parts to the end it might not be of service to the Swedes hee advanced toward Sechenser and Wolfenbuttell about the end of Ianuary Bannier had newes hereof who being certified of truth that the Imperialists were departed returned suddenly to Magdeburg where he left good order for the repayring it judging it a place of no small importance for the affaires of Swethland hee from thence marched after Pappenheime and wonne Steimbruck intending thereby to streighten the enemies Army for this being a passe of some importance upon the River Obroe and very commodious for the Imperialists the Swedes might here have fought with much advantage against their enemies but Pappenheime did so gallantly acquite himselfe as though he was beset on both side by the Protestants he without any losse came to Beterloo a strong place not farre from the River Glien between the territories of Heye and the Bishoprick of Hildeskeim having brought under Contribution the Townes of Brounswyck and Lunenburg rich Provinces which lye between the Wesser and the Elb bordering on the South upon Misnia and Thuringia on the North upon the Lower Saxony hee at last recovered the Confines of Hamelen that hee might make use of that City and of the Wesser aswell for the safeguard of his owne Forces as for the preservation of such Townes as had not yet revolted from Caesar wherein his successe was so happy that by this occasion he had meanes to shew how advantagious in war it is to have undaunted wise and valliant Commanders and which is of greatest concernment such as understand their profession hee defended he maintained himselfe and with a few men stopt the enemies advancing who knowing him to be resolute and industrious durst not come to handy-blowes with him effects which are not onely occasioned by mens fearfull apprehensions whose losse takes its rise from selfe beliefe but particularly by the valour of other men which begets feare and admiration even in the Enemy High mindes are alwayes verst about great matters the King being gone from Mentz considered the importancy of Creutsbag a Towne seated upon the River Nayle which takes its head from a little Lake in the state of Swibrechen called Scheidambergerway'd fals into the Rhyn at Binghem by the taking hereof he should secure unto himselfe the possession of
off horsebacke encouraging those who yet remained to scale the walls againe and exercising himselfe in all the duties of a bold spirit which is oftentimes seconded by fortune had like to have run danger of his life there for his Horses shoulder was shot off there with a Cannon bullet whose skin was afterwards hung up in the Cathedrall Church of that City as a memoriall thereof The King adventuring his life upon this occasion as likewise in many others afforded much discourse to the Souldiers and Commanders by whom being humbly intreated that he would have a greater care of his owne person he with a pleasing countenance answered a Minister who exhorted him thereunto That a King who puts himselfe in Armes must not dreame of Court-delights and safety that death ought alwayes then to be esteemed deare and cherished when it gives life to honour and is advantagious to the publicke that Masters commands are never better obeyed then in their owne presence Having after this stayed some dayes about the City he resolved to leave certaine Regiments there to hinder the Garrison from making such sallies as they might doe upon his neighbouring Quarters and that he might linger no longer before a Fort the situation wherof gave him no hopes of effecting his desire he marched with his Army towards Landshut a place of some moment in Bavaria seated upon the River Iser in the bosome of the two Rivers Danube and Inn which not being prepared for defence and having in it a timorous people yeelded it selfe at the first Cannot shot And after this having taken Morsperg not farre from the mouth of Iser and Amber he came before Monaco the Metropolis of Bavaria and the Dukes Seat a faire and great City but weakly fenced the Magistrate whereof finding himselfe not in a condition to contest sent twelve of the chiefe of the City to throw themselves before the Kings feet and to desire a treaty for suspension of Armes but this being by the King denied who would not receive it upon any other tearmes then upon discretion it behoved him at last to doe as was desired And the King not having forgot the bloud that was shed by Tillies men at Magdeburg where the Inhabitants were almost all put to the sword and their houses burnt And this being attributed to the Bavarians though as it hath been said it fell out by reason of the fire which tooke in a Drugsters house the King I say taking occasion under this pretence to make the misfortunes of warre seeme lesse terrible to those people who not having till now made any tryall thereof could not well disgest them and that he might have an occasion to make himselfe be esteemed mercifull and consequently their evils appeare lesse to these Citizens for a mischiefe though great becomes a consolation when thereby a greater which is near at hand is prevented he commanded that in revenge of the aforesaid slaughter at Magdeburg Monaco should be set on fire the which the Citizens having notice of and all of them striving who should first throw themselves before the Kings feet they begg'd pardon of him alleadging they were not in any blame of what the Souldiers had mischievously done for that their whole life was spent in traffique and civill affaires at these lamentations and teares the King suffered himselfe soone to be entreated his intentions being not to ruinate and destroy but to preserve and restore he recalled his direction nor was there any fire seene but in Kitchens to make good cheer for the Souldiers and in the Minthouse where 12000 l. in mony was coyned to bestow as a donative or contribution upon the Souldier Many religious people came likewise before the King to entreat safety of him for being more than others enemies to the Protestants they feared to be more injured then others by them yet were they better received then they imagined and in particular the Capuchins were better satisfied then the rest for the King caused some Almes to be given them and commended their Religion and life as honest and good and though one of them had the boldnesse to reprehend him of the errour wherein he lived and to exhort him to acknowledge the Roman Church as other his forefathers had done hee seemed not to be offended at him but to make good esteem of him Walesteines arrivall at Pilsen with so great an Army govern'd by so brave Commanders and so well provided with all things necessary did not onely amuse the King but all the Protestants who thought the Austrians would never have been able to have assembled so many people in so short a time but above all it troubled the State of Nurenberg who by its declaring it selfe in the behalfe of the Swedes was disobedient to the Imperialists and the riches thereof provoked the Souldier to thinke upon revenge they therefore hoping in some sort to allay the ill will the Austrians might beare them by sending to collogue with Walesteine acknowledging him to be the Emperours Generall and acquainting him with the reasons which moved them to declare themselves friends to the Swedes those foure Commissioners who came to Pilsen in the beginning of May to congratulate the said Generall but they met with so strange an entertainment as well shewed how capricious the giver thereof was for at their arivall Walesteine gave order that they should be met in great Pompe as Embassadours of the greatest Princes of Germany that they should be discharged at the publique cost and received with such honour as is wont to be used at publique magnificencies he afterwards put off their audience for six dayes and at last when they came before him with their letters of credence which they presented him withall thereby expounding their Embassy he welcomming them in all honourable manner and receiving them with much appearing courtesie received the letter from their hands which before he had read throughout he answered hee was very well informed of their Embassy that he would come himselfe in person to give them his Answer and that he should then know whither the effects were answerable to the handsome expressions of their letter and so without more Complement dismist them Whereat the Commissioners being much perplext much made on by all and better attended then before returned home The Novelty hereof being knowne in the Camp and in the Court past not without some curious discussions some thought that Walesteine had done a memorable act and that he could not doe better they said such were not to be pardoned who driven thereunto by feare beg it but that they deserved punishment who had forsaken their formerly sworne allegeance and that chastisement was the true looking-glasse for wicked men from thence he dispatched away Colonell Spor a confident friend of Harnems and made 50000 Dollers be delivered out unto him and other Regalities thereby to dazle the eyes of such difficulties as he should meet withall and to re-assume the new Treaty of this accommodation
Sittaw and Guben two Townes paâted by the River Neisse with divers other places weake in Defence and Garrisons yielded themselves to the Caesarians But the Duke of Saxony awakened by this invasion assembled all his Army which lay scattered in divers Townes and went against the Austrians who were not strong enough long to withstand him so as after some dayes defence they were necessitated to abandon Gubân to surrender Sittaw and to quit other places they had tane The Saxons likewise possessed themselves of Freiberg watered by Polsnitz Sagan neere Bober and Glogaw watered by the Oder chiefe Cities in Slesia together with many other Townes which were forsaken by the Imperialists who got into Steinaw seated between Glogaw and Breslaw where they fortified themselves but being afterwards set upon by Harnem the Saxon Generall having first by their singular valour supplied the defects of their Bulworkes with the bodies of men they were inforced to yield whose example was followed by Lignitz a walled Town seated upon the Angle made by Ratsbach Schwartzwasser Rivers which taking their head not farre from thence joyne there and a little below fall into the Oder this Towne was taken by Kalchesteim a Saxon Colonell This meane while Maradas being joyned with Schamburg Count Mansfeild and Schaffâuts chiefe Commanders of the Emperours Army opposed the Swedes proceedings and Mustering their Forces which came to 14000 Souldiers and 12 piece of Cannon he thought it might make much for them to recover Steinaw hee saluted it with divers Cannon-shot and couragiously assaulted it and with many threates invited the Garrison to surrender the Towne as they basely did having had onely Thirty Great-shot made at them The taking hereof incouraged the Caesarians to undertake the winning of Glossaw a thing very much desired by them aswell for their owne honours as to satisfie Walesteine for it belonged unto him as being Duke thereof being afterwards informed that Tuball one of the Swedish Colonels was intrencht about it with a good body of an Army which would make their designe the harder they deserted the effecting thereof and some little skirmishes passing between the Swedes and them with equall successe they left a fitting garrison in the Fort and withdrew themselves to Breslaw the Metropolitan of Slesia a free Towne as are the other Hauns Townes of Germany rich and given to Merchandise by the traffique it holds with Poland but not much confiding in the Magistrate thereof and suspecting the faith of the Protestant Inhabitants fearing likewise to be set upon by the Swedes who made haste towards them they resolved to go to Neisse a place strongly but irregularly fortified and there to attend succour from Walesteine Their hopes being vanished to aire who built their greatnesse upon the ruines of France by the death of Momerancy by the punishment of the Rebels and by Monsieurs reconciliation and the Imperialists being filled with new fears through the formidable power of that now united and warlike Kingdome wavering in the uncertainty of their resolutions they openly declared themselves when new businesse being set on foot by the Spanish wisedome and a firme resolution taken to sow discord in France that they might thereby secretly enjoy their desired fruite they applyed themselves to the effecting thereof And for that whil'st Monsieur stayed in Lorayne his favourite Pilloran fell in love with the Dawager Princesse of Psalsburg Sister to Duke Charles love being of power sufficient to overcome what ever defence wisedome could make and the Princesse by secret messengers corresponding with him in his desires he gave himselfe so totally over to the hopes of this marriage by which his Condition would be not a little bettered and being much troubled at Momerancy's example thinking his person more considerable when out of France then when in it where he was not wel looked on by those who were faithful to the King making use of the credit he had with Monsieur raising him by new hopes to fresh undertakings troubling his thoughts with Momerancy's death and by putting him in minde that Princes how mercifull soever they be never forget the injurie of high Treason hee brought him againe to resolve of absenting himselfe the which he did by withdrawing himselfe againe into Lorayne where Pilloran hoping to make himselfe worthy of the Princesse Dowager by some service which he might doe to Duke Charles did negotiate and privatly conclude the marriage with the Princesse Margaret which as was very well knowne was yielded unto by the Spaniard that they might have the greater obligation upon the Duke in binding him to effect their desires that they might by this allyance oblige the affection of these Princes reciprocally the one unto the other and by this knot make both their hatreds to the King of France implacable and by the assistance of this State and the Forces thereof make fitting preparations for to trouble France and by the interposition of this State free Alsatia and the Palatinat from the power of that Crown Moreover the most Christan King being without issue and having but small hopes of any his Brother was to succeed unto him so as the making of his brother sure did not meanely import them whereby they might not onely afterwards ransome such Townes and Provinces of theirs as were fallen under the government of the Crowne of France but afford matter of thought to the subjects of that Kingdome who should take up Armes against the Kings onely Brother and Heire as well for the respect which is due to the blood Royall as likewise for feare lest he being afterwards possest of the Scepter of that Kingdome might remember such as had stuck unto the King Many were therefore of opinion that the Spaniards unwilling that he should stay in Lorayne where being so neere he might soone alter his determination and returne to France as by all possible art it was by the King indeavoured he should doe they wrought so with Duke Charles as that he should perswade Monsieur it were better for him to retire himselfe into Flanders for that by his stay in that his Dukedome the King might take occasion to threaten him the Duke of Lorayne and make Warre upon him whose Forces wanting the Austrians assistance were but weake that it was better to see the issue of the Emperours Armies under Walesteine then by buckling thereunto without a good foundation runne upon the like hazard with little hopes of good successe Monsieur being then perswaded by these reasons and much more confirmed therein by the advice of such as were of credit wiâh him not minding their policy went to Brussels to the great satisfaction of the Spaniards whose end as was said by some wise men was to keep him as an Hostage and under some specious pretence either of waging war against Languedoc or some such like thing to draw him into Spaine and so secure themselves by their keeping him aloofe from France from being unquieted thereby and that if their mentioned hopes should
prepare to rayse the Siege that they might succour their Compagnions when hearing the truth of this last gotten Victory whilst the Trumpets with their Sourdets sounded to Horse they were again comforted every mans countenance was cheared the Cannons playd for joy and bowles of Wine went off apace The French perceiving more cleerly the Duke of Loraynes evill intentions by his continuing intelligence with the Austrians his hostile proceedings against the Colleagues his despising the Kings admonitions his violating of his promise made the yeare before unto his Majestie under his hand his complotting with the Enemies of France in businesses much prejudiciall to that Crowne and discovering more particularly how the Marriage was concluded betweene the Duke of Orleans and Princesse Margueret the Dukes Sister contrary to the Fundamentall Lawes of that Kingdome which inhibite Princes of the Blood to marry without the Crownes consent and thinking now that they had just cause to resent the Dukes actions which were altother contrary to his promises and finding moreover that the Duke of Feria was marching from Milan with an Army thitherward with intention when he should have relieved Brisach to come first into the strong holds of that State and by assisting of Flanders Burgondy and Germany to reduce the French affaires into a greater streight The Marshall De la Force with 20000 Souldiers without any further delay threw himselfe on the 20 of August into the midst of that Dukedome and without any contestation made himselfe Master of the Field and of all the neighbouring Towns whereupon the Duke astonished at this newes knowing himself not able to contest with the Forces of so great a King and fore-seeing moreover the ruine of his state if being obstinate to keepe in Nancy he should quit the Campania he resolved by the joynt Counsell of his Subjects since he could not contend with so great Forces to imbrace such courses as might rather tend to appease the King then to irritate him yet more He therefore recommended the care of that place to the Cardinall Nicola Francesco his Brother and he himselfe together with his Wife and Sister in Law withdrew himselfe to Remiremont towards the Confines of Burgondy and for that his Majestie of France was chiefly incenst that his Brother should Marry with the Dukes Sister and the Duke knowing that if the Princesse Marguerit should fall into the Kings hands before the Marriage should be consummated he would break the Match he resolved to send her disguised in Pages apparell attended upon by three of his most intimate Friends to her Husband into Flanders which insued without any interruption He afterwards sent the Cardinall towards the King who on the 19th of August met the King at Ponte Monson by whom he was graciously received The Cardinall humbly desired the King to pardon any thing that his Brother had done amisse or wherin that State was concerned which was rather ready to put it self under his Princely protection then to provoke his anger The King gave gracious eare to what the Cardinall said and replyd How that the Duke without any occasion had given himselfe over to very evill Councell that he had so oft broke promise with him as he could not now any longer trust him that therefore his firme intention was to secure himselfe of all the Dukes Forts and strong holds during the present Commotions in Germany and that he would have the Princesse Marguerit in his custody and that when these things should be willingly yeelded unto by the Duke he should then taste the effects of his Clemency The Cardinall having by these mannerly excuses moderated the Kings anger and saved himselfe from apparent danger was not notwithstanding herewithall satisfied as indeed it made but little for him for the King saw well enough that all this was but cunning to deferre the time till the Spanish Forces should be arrived wherefore the Cardinall seeing himselfe invironed on all sides by the French having no succour nigh and finding the Spanish promises not likely to take effect agreed to surrender up unto his Majestie the New Citie of Nancy to discard forthwith such people as were there in pay to indeavour that the Princesse Marguerit should be put into his Majesties hands and totally to relinquish the Austrian union But the Duke being after this agreement gone from Remiremânt to Bisansor and causing no small jealousie in the French by the slow disbanding of his Forces as also that it appeared not that he would forgoe his addiction to the Emperour and the King being to boot with this much more offended by reason of the Princesse Marguerits escape he caused his Army to advance in sight of Nancy and sent his complaints interlaced with threats to the Duke who thinking he was able by dissembling the machinations of his desires to free the King from his suspition and being imboldned by the Cardinall Richeleius invitation to whom the King had intrusted the government of all these affairs who then was at Charnes upon the Mosell he resolved though not so advised by his Councellors to goe in Person and speake with him that so he might excuse himselfe and by humbling himselfe procure the safetie of his State since there was no hopes of maintaining it by force or by ayde from Spaine But the French who were little advantaged by their having the New Citie of Nancy whilst they wanted the Old the New Citie being so scituated as it was commanded by the other they resolved to secure themselves of the Old Citie likewise without the which they could not maintaine themselves in the New one The Cardinall after having reproached the Duke for his sinister comportments totally averse to the Rules of good State-government he in the Kings name demanded of him the Old Citie expressing an intention that when the Duke should make good his promises the King would courteously restore all unto him whose aimes were not to take what belonged to another but only to secure himselfe of such a ones loyaltie who by failing therein might prejudice the Crowne of France The Duke who very well knew how hard a matter it was to get strong holds out of the hands of powerfull men when they were once possest of them was not well pleased with this proposition but being much vext and troubled thereat indeavoured by reasons palliated with promises and other proffers to be therein excused but the Cardinall replying that his instructions were to secure himselfe likewise of the Old Towne which by all meanes he must have and threatâning the Duke with some sinister successe if he would not willingly surrender it the Duke much confused and being on all sides invironed by the French forces knowing that he could not evade the blow â likewise apprehending danger of his own life signed the agreement caused the Town to be delivered up into the hands of the Kings Officers but upon these conditions that neither should the Citizens be disarm'd nor the Duke
go to Cullen at which the Court of Spaine and as many as knew his great worth and endowments were very much grieved they chose Signior Don Francisco di Melo a man highly esteemed aswel for his learning as for his Chivalry He comming at this time from Spaine to the State of Milan where not many Moneths before he had resided went in company of the great Chancellour of Milan towards Cullen though afterwards the rest not appearing who were to be present there hee altered his way and went into Flanders as shall be said hereafter Yet were these the Austrians hopes affirmed by those who maintaine they ought not to be trusted unto nor believed to be artificiall who gave out that the Spaniards seeing their affaires fadged but ill favouredly did but thus indeavour to fence themselves from the hatred which other Princes bare them for their great desire of increasing their Dominion And because some discord begun to break forth in Hungary between the Papists and Protestants of that Kingdome as likewise to provide for other affaires of that Crowne and to have an eye unto the Consines and Frontiers of the Ottoman the Emperour summoned a Diet at Presburg the Metropolitan of that Province He moderated the excesse in hunting and musicke in briefe he gave signes of being a Prince deserving that Crowne and of being very well inclined to the government of the Empire and the good of his Subjects The Grisons being now that the French were gone out of Rhetia free masters of all the Forts of indeed all the Valteline saw it was necessary for them to be upon good tearmes with the King of Spaine without which it would be in vaine for them to dreame of peacefully possessing that Valley for they would either easily be driven from thence by the Spaniards or else to maintain it it would behove them to have recourse to Forreigne ayde and particularly to the French who being warned by their past-proceedings would either refuse to succour them or else being by reason of state to lend them assistance they must expect to be demanded such large conditions as the Grisons should not easily afterwards remove the French from those holds in which they should againe have nestled themselves so as to shun the being domineered over by the Spaniard they must fall under the yoake of France They therefore wisely weighing what meanes would be best fitting for them to maintaine their libertie which though they were a necessitous people and bare of money they loved more then gold they resolved before they should slight those Forts wherein they themselves kept Garrisons to send Embassadours to Milan to agree with the Agents of Spaine what course they had best take for the good government of the Valteline thinking that the Spaniards would feare that they might againe fall under the protection of the French and therefore would be glad to comply with them upon any conditions But because the Spanish Agents had not or feigned not to have authority from Spaine to resolve this affaire or were it their desire to procrastinate the Treatie and entertaine the Grisons with words and hopes that they might advise with time of which the Spaniards upon all occasions make no little use they wisely prolonged all resolution that they might see what their successe would be against the French according whereunto they might highten their pretentions Don Frederick Enriques the Spanish Embassadour with the Arch-Dutchesse Claudia in Ispurch was sent for to Milan as one who having formerly interceded in accords made with the Grisons did very well understand those affaires and in the meane time the Spaniards made very much of the Embassadours entertaining them at the Kings charge as it is usuall with Princes to doe that they may captivate the good will of such State Ministers as are with them to negotiate such affaires as concerne their owne interest though their resolutions were to send them to the Court of Spaine where they might be graciously received by the King and sent satisfied away to the end that they might the meane while take some order with the Forts of Chiavena Tirano Sondrio and Grossetto and demolish La Riva and Mantello as situated too neere the State of Milan These Treaties with the Spaniards were much prejudiciall to the French who to boot with being deluded by the Grisons through their good correspondeny with the King of Spaine were to meet with greater difficulties in what they were to undertake in these parts by reason that the passages lay open to the succour of Germany and of the State of Milan Rohan who at this time entertained himselfe privately and unimployed sometimes in Switzerland sometimes with Duke Waymer was commanded to re-assume by the meanes of his Protestant friends a friendship with the Grisons and to divert them from their begun-Treaties with the Spaniards offering them money and upon any needfull occasion sufficient aide to maintaine their libertie for it no wayes complyde with the French that they should contract friendship with the Spaniard In obedience whereunto Rohan used his best dexteritie but for that the favours of private men doe seldome subvert the reasons of a State especially of Common-Wealths who being alwayes jealous of their libertie know no greater obligations then those which tend to the preservation of themselves nor never mind any thing save the publique interest his ingenious negotiations prevailed not For the Spanish Dubloones working more upon particular affection then did French Crowns and the publique aime being to enjoy that in peace which they had at last with so much labour regained they were contented not to imbroile themselves in new affaires And the correspondency with the Spaniard whilest they maintained themselves quietly in their owne possessions did better suit with the Grisons then correspondency with the French whose state lay farre from theirs and from whose Kingdome they could not reape that profit which they did from the King of Spaines Territories and from Germany for they being a poore people their greatest incomes lye in their Traffique with those of Milan and of the Dutch in the transferring of merchandize which passe from Germany into Italy and from Italy into Germany and in many passeâgers who leave their money behind them in their Innes the which not being able to obtaine without Commerce with the Austrians it would redound much to the prejudice of the publique and private Whereupon Rohan more incenst against them then ever failed not to presse That his King ought no longer to Treat with them who did with such disparitie correspond to benefits received That great Princes ought to secure themselves of their interessed friends fidelities by force that way was to be made by Armes where negotiations could not prevaile And insisting That the French should againe march with their Forces into the Valteline he propounded That Waymers Army was sufficient to that purpose with which entring afterwards on this side into the State of Milan those of Piemont by
upon Languedock a Countrey which extends it selfe from Provence unto the Pirenean Mountaines and which is of a temperate climate very fruitfull and populous by the invasion whereof their intentions were not onely to divert those Forces which threatned Italy and Flanders but that which was of greater consequence to frighten those Inhabitants and see whether by their assistance they could make them take up Armes against the Kings Ministers of State as those who had occasioned the War in France And because almost all the Military men that had imployment in Italy Flanders or elsewhere were sent for from far into the King of Spaines Dominions for the Councell of Spaine thought it not fitting to give the government of an Army in Spaine to one of the same Nation for the preferring of one Subject before the rest in his owne Countrey is to derogate from the pretensions of many others who thinke themselves not inferiour to the partie preferred and to rayse him to too great an height whom they so exalt they were aware of this and therefore sent for Count Iohn Serbellone to command those Forces a Subject of the State of Milan of great esteeme and of experienced worth in Military affairs as well to take him from the pretences he had in the Armies of that State as for the fore-mentioned reasons of shunning emulation amongst themselves as also for Marquis Phillip Spinola Nephew to that great Generall Ambrosius under whom he had beene disciplined When these came to Madrid they were received with much civilitie by the King and Queene and all the Court as those who were thought might be serviceable unto them in the time of War though the wiser sort were of opinion That these were but counterfeit demonstrations of contentment such as are frequently used by such as stand in need of anothers assistance for it was held for certaine that the Spaniards who envie all other Nations desire to monopolize all their Grandezzes within themselves The Duke of Cardona who was commanded to rayse as many men as he could in those Kingdomes had now assembled together an Army of betweene ten and twelve thousand men to boot with other Souldiers remaining in Novar under the Duke of Nocera to watch over the French who by reason of the Spaniards entring in hostile manner into those parts were now become strong and had driven the Spaniards from Bayon where they had met with hard usage The Spaniish Commanders thinking it now fitting time to effect their resolves and Serbellone desirous at his entrance to doe somewhat handsomely they turned their march towards Leucata a Citie in Languedock neere Narbone and not far from the Sea as a place very fit to make way for greater enterprises Their Army being brought before it Serbellone and the Marquis of Mortara tooke up their quarters on the side towards Narbonne Francis Specchi Master of the Field with his men quartered at Franchina and the Duke De monte Reale tooke up his abode at the place called Sferra Cavalli they set a great number of Pioniers on worke in the digging of Trenches as well against the Citie as to keepe off succour and thought verily to take the Towne for the French Forces were afarre off neither did it comply with them to remove them from the Rhyn and from Flanders to imploy them here They planted their Cannon against it and beset it the Catelonians using more bravery with their tongues then with their Swords as never having seene any Squadrons unlesse of Cattell they being for the most part Countrey people But as things suddenly raysed are oft-times as suddenly razed they failed in what they intended for the Allarme being given to all the French thereabouts and those Confines being strengthned by Troops of Horse and Foot speedily sent thither from the neighbouring Provinces by the Governours thereof these men naturally hating the Spaniard did with such hast and fury as is naturall to the French flock to ayde the besieged and the Spaniards being for the most part fresh-men of the Trained Bands and not used to Warre they either knew not how or were not able to resist the fierce assault which the French not valuing their lives made upon their Trenches about three a clock at night on the 28th of September so as it behoved them to give way to the French and bethinke themselves of a retreat which they could not so orderly performe but that they lost all their Artillery their Baggage and about 2000 men The newes whereof being speedily brought to the Court of France was very welcome and made the French looke about them and provide for that which had they not beene awakened by the Spaniards perhaps they would never have drempt of So turning their eye this way they were hereby incited to recover that which was formerly taken away by Ferdinand King of Spaine by reason of Pope Iulius the second his Excommunication thundred out against Iohn Albertââ who sided with Lodovick the twelfth Signior De Schamont was commanded to assemble together as many men as he should judge requisite for the businesse and march towards Parpignon and the Prince of Conde was by His Majestie declared Generall of that Army and for that Affaire As one misfortune comes seldome alone but is followed by a greater if the Spaniards fared ill in Languedock they fared not better in Flanders nor in Lorayne For Prince Thomas and Piccolomini not being able to succour La Chapelle too narrowly beset by the French the besieged having discharged the parts of good Souldiers after having held out valiantly many dayes and now despairing of reliefe they yeelded up the Towne to the French on the 21th of September and Duke Longheville falling with 6000 Souldiers into Lorayne he tooke the strong passage of Doux in Burgundy routed some of Duke Charles his Horse and sackt many Townes in that Province On the other side the Infante finding it impossible for him to relieve Breda the Spaniards having beene received to their no little losse in the Duke of Bullions quarters hee went to the taking in of Ruremond and Venlo Forts possessed by the Hollanders upon the Mosa to see whether by the setting upon these he could remove the Prince of Orenge from the Siege of Breda the which within a few dayes yeelded to him the Garrison not being able longer to defend themselves for the defendants were but few and their Works imperfect This though availed but a little for the taking of Breda was of greater importance to the Hollanders it being strongly seated and whereby they should not onely the better secure their Frontiers on that side but might extend their raising of Contributions even to Antwerpe and Lira then the losse of six Ruremond's The Prince of Orenge therefore continued constant in his Siege and the defendants being reduced to great extremity of all things and wanting succour they yeelded up the Towne on the 10th of October upon the same conditions as were formerly graunted by
Spinola when hee tooke the same Towne in the yeare 1624. Piccolomini finding it lost labour to indeavour the succouring of La Chappelle went with his Army to before Maubrug a City seated between Landresi and Mons neer the river Sambra that if La Chapelle should be lost somewhat might be had by the taking of Maubrug The Cardinall of Vallette who after he had taken the Castle of Bussegni waited upon the Austrians to see what they would doe seeing what danger the City was in which if it should be lost he looking on would have redounded much to the shame of the French Forces marched speedily towards the Imperialists Camp But Piccolomini who knew himselfe inferiour in force to the French raised his Tents before they came up unto him not judging it now time to grapple with them and this the rather for that it was the Austrians firme advice and the Emperours expresse command who as it was thought would not have willingly dispossest himselfe of so many men though it had been for his owne affaires of the Empire that care should be had to spare the Souldiers as much as might bee since Germany being by reason of so many Warres depopulated recruits must be had from farre and would be hardly come by whereas France on the contrary being united and full of Warlike people who were desirous to see the world the King found no difficulty in recruiting his Armies hee therefore retreated neer Mons. The Imperialists retreat from Pomerania into the State of Brunswick and Alberstat incouraged the Swedes and Orenghell being joyned with Bannier they came both together to Stettin where agreeing that no favourable occasion was to bee pretermitted which might invite them to further advancement they resolved upon the recovery of Garts aswell to free the Villages which were under the command of their Forts from being insulted upon by the Garrison of that place as to open their way to greater Atchievements when the Forces should be come up unto them which were continually taken into pay by the Swedish Officers in Swethland and in Pomerania which place not being able to resist the Swedes and the Inhabitants thereof the greatest part being Protestants desirous to returne to the government of those of the same Religion and publickly to enjoy that liberty of Conscience which they so much valued and the Emperours Souldiers who had the Guard thereof fearing no lesse the injuries of the Inhabitants no well-wishers to the Roman-Catholiques then the Swedes invasion they surrendred the Towne to Bannier who was contented they should march out with their Armes and Baggage though the Citizens thereof complaining that the Imperialists carried away with them many things taken from their houses desired that was taken from them might be restored to them for the Imperialists in lieu of pay which they laid claim unto took away wheresoever they came all they could lay their hands on without any manner of respect The Swedes growing still more bold by these successes they marched without any let to before Verben where planting their Cannon and beating downe their Trenches the Saxons who had the Guard thereof staid not to be Assaulted but surrendred the City and many of them who hoped for little good from the Dukes pay changed colours and inroled themselves under the Swedes which the Elector did much resent who knowing very well that if fortune should prove propitious to the Swedes his mortall Enemies all the mischiefe and all the storme was to fall upon him and his State was likely to prove the seat of Warre he incontinently advertised the Court at Vienna therewithall as also Gallasse who for want of Victuals Mony and Men disbanded through hunger and sufferings durst not stirre from his lodgings into the Army for feare of a generall mutiny and representing the generall ruine which over-hung his estate he required and very earnestly prest the Emperour not to faile in his promised assistance Whereupon the Austrian Counsell knowing how necessary it was to give satisfaction to this Prince from whose friendship Bohemia received great advantage having Saxony for their out Wall without which the Warre would suddainly bee brought into that Kingdome though their Cofers were empty yet the Spanish fleet supplied the want thereof the Spaniards seeming no lesse concern'd herein then the Dutch and furnished 300000 Dollars which were sent to Gallasse with orders to oppose the Swedes with which the Army being a little comforted they went from their quarters in Brunswick and marched towards Bannier who not yet able to withstand the Forces both of the Emperour and Saxony went from Verben and haulted betwen Demitz and Stettin thinking to incommodiat the Imperialâsts as formerly and to drive them backe from whence they came rather by Famine then by the Sword so as the Saxons being left about Verben they suddainely retook it and Gallasse comming before Demin tryed though in vaine to take that Fort for not being able to reduce it so speedily as he had thought he was forced for want of Victuals to inlarge his quarters towards Brandenburg where being followed by the Swedes who were much inforced by fresh succour come from Swethland divers skirmishes past daily between them but of no great moment At this time William Landsgrave of Hessen a sprightly Prince and given to the Warres exhorted the King of England all that he could to make use of this opportunity in remitting the Counts Palatine into their State to which purpose many men were raised about Meppen and aswell for this as for other common causes the League between France Swethland and Holland was againe established in which France promised to pay 12000 Souldiers Swethland 5000 and Holland 5000. The Landsgrave being now gone in person to Meppen to consider what course was to be taken for the mannaging of this Warre and from thence to Holland to agree with those States what was best to be done in these present emergencies whilest he returned well-satisfied with his negotions to his owne Country he fell into a malignant Feaver in Leer a City which lies neer the Amasio between Meppen and Embden whereof hee dyed to the great griefe of the Protestants who loved this Prince exceedingly hee being a constant defender of their Religion and very firme in his friendship with his confederates never failing in his promise though unevitable ruine appeared thereby to his Dominions Therefore did the King of Swethland to answer him in affection as when he fell to praâse any one hee never forgot the Landsgrave of Hessen and Duke Bernard Waymer affirming that these two young Princes surpassed the gray-headed wits of Germany and that the Kingdome wherein they were had reason to boast The Landsgrave was a comely presence his body well composed hee injoyed a proportionable activity his aspect was pleasing whilest he was young he went into Holland and and lived under the Discipline of that great Maurice Prince of Orenge by obeying he learned how to command as Students get learning from
eye to the proceedings of the French These preparations grew every day greater for the Spaniards without any regard either to their goods or lives ran to the defence of those Frontiers which served for an out-fence to their Countrey and many souldiers ranne every day from the French Camp who cursing the mountains of Spain knew not how to live out of the pleasant fields of France so as the businesse began to grow more doubtfull Yet did those undaunted Commanders resolve to continue the begun siege till by the arrivall of new Forces which were a raising on all sides in Guien and in Gascony they might the better pursue their desired ends The Cardinall of Valette growing by the losse of Vercelles more jealous of the Spaniards in whom he only feared surprizals and stratagems looked the more narrowly to the safety of Montferrat and having placed his men in the frontier Townes thereof he went to Cassall where he found Montegly his processe made him therein found guilty of holding correspondency with the Spaniards wherefore hee on the suddaine caused his head to be struck off and had a better eye to the Inhabitants of Cassall Yet Emery the Embassadour of France was not well pleased with this sentence who as it seemes had promised Montegly that hee should be pardoned And this piece of Justice was thought the more severe for that Montegly being a servant of the Dutchess of Mantua's and bound to obey her commands 't was reported that he did nothing but by her allowance This execution and this expulsion of the Officers of Mantua out of Cassall as it was no wayes satisfactory to the Inhabitants of Montferrat and of Mantua so was it not a little displeasing to the Dutchesse Mary who could hardly brooke that the French who were brought into the Towne as friends should dispossesse her of that wherein she acknowledged no Superiour but God and which her very enemies by all their treacheries could never bereave her of Various discourses and considerations were had hereupon by those that pretended to seâ further into a Mil-stone then others some said that the Dutchess could have wisht that the businesse had succeeded according to agreement and that agreement was that which hath been mentioned For 't was said that dealing under-hand with the Spaniards she had resolved to drive the French out of Cassall and yet not to receive the Spaniards in with which the Spaniards were well contented as being satisfied that the French should not bee there and that those places should continue in neutrality It was commonly given out that the agreement was that Montegli having brought the Spaniards into the Towne should have dismisâ the French from thence and that putting a Garrison of the Inhabitants of Montferrat into the Cittadell they would afterwards have committed the custody of the Citie and Castle to certainâ Swissers for the payment of which the King of Spain would lend the Dutchesse money So as the Towne being taken out of the hands of the French and yet not fallen unto the possession of the Spaniards the Dutchesse and Duke of Mantua would have enjoyed the Prerogative that belonged unto their Soveraignty and that this State standing in the midst betweene two others each of which was desirous to hold good correspondency wth her they would consequently vye which of them by their fair entreating of the Subject by their respect born unto the Dutchess should reap such advantage as might make most for them Others held that if this should have happened the effect would not so easily have ensued because the French being hereat scandalized would presently have ruinated Montferrat being Masters of the best Towns therein and if the Spaniards would defend it the event must be War and the Spaniards would have done the same thing the French did for if the Town should have fallen into their hands no wise man will believe that ever they would have quit it uncompel'd Wherefore since it was impossible to evade war or to shun the falling into the hands of one of these two great Potentates a mischief was undergone on the one side and a greater mischiefe on the other so as it was best the French should keep possession thereof as those who were not so neare neighbours and were to passe through the State of Millan before they could make any further progresse and that it should not fall into the hands of the Spaniards who when they should have secured themselves on that side would afterwards give the Law in Mantua Others said that the French by doing such publike Justice had deviated from the Laws of good policy because they might have bereft Montegli of his life have secured themselves from any thing the other Officers could have done after another manner that by doing thus they warned other Princes not to introduce the forces of greater Potentates then themselves into their owne homes since it plainly appeares they give away that to the one which they fight for and deny unto their enemies And they further added that the Inhabitants of Montferrat being exasperated it would be hard for the French to keep in that Province if they should fal out with them But those who know the interest of States to be of so nice a nature as every the least jealousie is sufficient to raise suspition conceived that the French had done very wisely affirmed they had learnt this of the Spaniards proved that they had good grounds for the securing of the fort For this being that which upheld the reputation and esteem of their arms in Italy without it all their designes would have miscaried They maintained so great a King ought not expose himself to the injuries of an inferiour that those resolutions are always good whereby a State is enlarged and such negligence blamable as draws on ruine that what is taken away may at all times be restored but that not alwais recovered which is lost That it it is not unlawful to ceaze upon that which not being ceazed upon causes greater mischief to him that ceazeth not on it Whilst these two great Crowns were consulting how they might best provide for the present Emergencies a new accident hapned in the Adriatick Sea which drew the eyes of all Europe no less upon it then did the wars between those two great Kings 17. Turkish Gallies after having piracied all the Mideterranian to the great dammage of Christians blown up with pride by their happy success wherein they met not with any to withstand them grew so adventurous as to enter the Gulf to commit more rapine in so much aâ it was thought they had on intention to rifle our Lady of Loretto's house The illustrious CommoÌ-wealth of Venice Quâ of the Adriatick which by a dreadful power of shipping hath for many ages peacefully possest the soveraingnty of that sea to the great advantage of all Christendom gave orders to Martin Cappello the Providitor of the Navy to provide against the insolency of
daring to quit his quarters for feare his souldiers should mutiny for want of money Bannier had oportunity to assault Volghast and to take it which hee luckily did He afterwards with his horse which were led on by Tortenson advanced too neer the Imperiallists quarters with whoÌ he had divers skirmishes for it behoved Gallasse much against his will to retreat as far as Volbery towards Elbis for he fore-saw hee was likely to reap but little good by that War since the Sweedes were recruited in all parts the Imperiallists every where lesned To boot with these defaults which hindred him from proceeding on accordingly as he had hoped he was much grieved for the death of Lelio Pompey an Italian Gentleman of Verona by birth who had by many Princes been very wel esteemed of as wel in peace as war The Sweeds being the more encouraged by this retreat of Gallasse came before Dimmin of which after many Cannon-shot and three fierce assaults they made themselves Masters Wherefore Bannier marched cheerfully on toward Landsperg by the winning whereof the way was opened into Saxony and the Country of Magdeburg whether the Sweed did desire to come to take revenge for the injuries they had received from that Elector Whilest nothing but War was heard of on all sides in Montferrat each party being prepared as well for defence as offence the French expecting supplyes from France and the Spanyards the like from Naples Spaine and Germany Francisco Giacintho the young Duke of Savoy seised on by a violent Feaver dyed on the third of October whose death as it bore along with it weighty consequences so were not the effects which were thereby fore-told by our curious newes-mongers late in their arrivall for there being none left of the Issue of Victorio Amedio save one Infant Prince named Charles Emanuel but five years olde of a weake constitution of body and who was at this time sick of the small poxe a disease which raigned much that yeare 't was easily fore-seene that if he should saile great troubles would arise concerning the succession for the government falling upon the Prince Cardinall and hee having of late declared himselfe to adhere to the Spanish faction it would ensue that upon this occasion the French would never tollerate a Prince in this State which should be independant upon them so as keeping the Townes in their own possession and not suffering the lawfull Prince to be introduced it would fall out that the Subjects being well affectionate to their naturall Princes and incensed by the Spaniards against the French the War must needs grow greater which would produce bloody events The Spaniards therefore who as hath beene already said hath formerly laid great foundations upon the comming of the Prince Cardinall and Prince Thomas knowing this to be a fitting occasion sent presently for the Cardinal from Rome for that being by meanes of their Forces brought into Piemont he might the better be prepared to take possession of his right in case his other Nephew should dye The Spaniards invited him hereunto out of greater hopes for that they knew the Inhabitants of Piemont were not very well satisfied with the French after the taking of Vercelles because in steed of defending them and helping them to recover what they had lost they seemed rather desirous to possess themselves of all the rest that belonged to the Duke of Savoy pretending not to confide in the people and to have some caution of their good in their hands The Spaniards who were stil carefull to maintain their Crown in its greatness for they knew what advantage did accrew unto them by the dependency of Forreign Princes and endeavouring all means whereby they might reap any good after their accustomed fashion of civility endeavoured to correspond in gratitude to the satisfaction they had received from Francis Duke of Modena a wise Prince and very affectionat to the Crown of Spain whose good correspondency his Highness out of reason of State thought requisite for besides the great advantage which those of Modena gat by their commerce with the State of Milan it may be added that confining upon the Pope between whom and the Dukes of Modena there was never any great inwardness since the loss of Ferrara To boot then with what was already done for the Emperour had already invested him in Corraggio a Town in the heart of the Country of Modena by al other friendly demonstrations made him know what valuation his most Catholike Majesty put upon him He was under various pretences invited to the Court of Spaine and more particularly for that the Queen being great with child was ready to lye downe the King the more to win his friend-ship would have him to be God-father to his childe yet this was but a pretence to hide the true occasion which was not so easily seene by all men for the emulation being very great betwen the Spanyard and the French they could not disgest that demonstration of obsequiousness of the Duke of Parma to the King of France whilst he went to visite him at Paris without the like comming of another Italian Prince to Madrid that it might be known that if Parma did depend upon France others did side with Spaine The Duke of Modena therefore being a sprightly Prince and well inclined to make this voyage that he might see new Countreys and receive honours and profitable terms for his State which he could not chuse but do from so great a King went to the Court of Spain where he was received with greater magnificency then ever was any Prince of Italy Those who see far into State-affaires affirmed that this the Spaniards civility proceeded from the need they had both of his person and state and therefore they said they had brought him into Spain with an intention of giving him the chief command of his Majesties Forces against the French in those kingdomes the which they did not onely to obleige that Prince unto their pay but that they might have out of his Countrey which was very populous as many souldiers as they could to make use of them in their owne kingdomes It was also reported that the Spanish Ministers of State thought to make a change with this Duke and to give him the Kingdome of Sardinia for his Dukedome of Modena which would have been a very good change for the Spaniard for augmenting the State of Millan by the addition of that of Modena becomming on this side also the Popes neighbours they would have heightned their authority in the Court of Rome and the Duke of Parma bound up between the Country of Cremona and Modena would have beene inforced to depend upon Spaine and by how much the Spanyards power encreased in Italy so much did the power of the Italian Princes lessen and Sardinia being but a barren Island in a clymat almost unknown to the Italians the Spaniards would have lost but little by loosing it But the Duke being wise and no
18. of October where the Prince Electors souldiers being new professors of War and their Commanders no less unexperienced they retreated so confusedly at the first going off of the Canon as being pursued by the Imperiallists horse and on all sides invironed by the enemie who helped their victory by the seeming appearances of more Colours those who saved themselves not by flight were either slaine or taken prisoners amongst which Prince Rupert Count Palatine of Rhene and brâther to the Elector was one who was with a good guard carried prisoner to the Castle of Lynts there died in this action about 4000. of the Prince Electors men and 800. Imperiallists Sergeant-Major-generall King and the Elector saved themselves by swimming and got into Mindem many prime Gentlemen of England were slaine and some taken prisoners This victory though it were not of much moment as some would have it to be for by this the nests were not destroyed from whence new troubles were to be expected and it would rather serve for a further incitement to the King of great Brittan to proceed against the Austrians yet howsoever who shall consider the business and knows what advantage the States of the Roman Catholikes received by the securing of those Forts the reputation of their arms will finde it to be greater then it appeared to be For besides the freeing of the Ecclesiasticall Provinces from the feare they stood in of those forces great was the consequence of the recovery of those places which whilst possest by the Protestants kept the neighbouring Inhabitants in continuall agitation and made the widow of the late Landsgrave strong in her adherence to the Sweedish party The Austrians and Ecclesiasticks did therefore by publike thanksgiving witnesse the content they received hereby The King of Poland was likewise hereat well pleased for his brother Prince Casamire being some moneths before taken prisoner by the French at Bucary upon the Coast of Provence as he was going in a Galley from Genoa to the Court of Spain about some business and from thence carried to the Boys St. Vincent he thought this Count Palatine would be a fitting change for the said Prince Casamire Azfelt after having taken Vecht went to the taking in of Osnapruch which in a few dayes accepted of Lawes from the Conquerour To thwart the succesfull proceedings in these parts Duke Weymar who gallantly surrounded Brisacke did in part recover what those of his faction had lost in the Prince Electors business for receiving advertisement how that 7. Imperiall Regiments led on by Charles Duke of Loreine Bossompier and Mercy being come from Burgondy were upon their march towards Tan that they might fall down from thence and joyne with the other Austrians on this side the Rhene so joyntly endeavour that succour which Ghetz failed in he presently parted from his Camp before Brisack with 6000. commanded men six pieces of Cannon and 4. Cariages of Ammunition and went to meet with the Lorreyners between Vsfholph and Senhaim where he in person boldly set upon a squadron of horse led on by Mercy after an obstinate fight wherein Mercy with his sword in hand did no less gallantly behave himselfe then did Weymar Mercyes horse was killed under him in his retreat the courage of the Caesarians seemed also somewhat to give backe Weymar pursued them closely and though he had received a slight hurt for which his men desired him to withdraw he by no means would give backe but growing more incensed by the sight of his own blood he charged upon the Front of the enemies horse and made them turn back and then pursuing them behind did great execution upon them Greater peradventure would the mischief have been had not a great battaglion of foot commanded by Bossompiere and placed in a convenient place stayed the Sweedes in their pursuit by hailing down musquet shot amongst them for it behoving Weymar to hault here lest he might be engaged in some dangerous encounter the Imperiallists had time to retreat and assembling together againe under the shelter of those musquetiers to fight vigorously but this availed them but a little For Colonell Rose advancing with the rest of the horse and 1500 choise foot whilst the Imperiall foot and the Sweeds foot were here fighting Weymar with his horse charged furiously upon the Duke of Lorreyns Squadrons and routed them putting many of them to the sword so as the Imperiall foot being invironed on all sides they were all either slain or taken prisoners save some few of the reer who saved themselves by flight they lost their baggage their Cannon Bossompier and some other Commanders of account and about 1500. souldiers To second this happy encounter Smitbery hearing thereof who commanded the Camp on the other side of the Rhene before Brisacke he valiantly assaulted the little Fort before the bridg and after a long dispute took it by storm So as the Town being besieged on all sides and brought to great streits and not being to be relieved on any side the Spanish Ministers of State were earnestly desired from those of Caesars Court to send suddainly a flying squadron of betweene sixe and 8000. souldiers from the State of Millan into Alsatia thereby to relieve this place wherein their common interests were so much concerned but these their entreaties could not prevaile with the Spaniards For though they were very much grieved that Brisacke should be lost they more valued the State of Millan then all Alsatia neither did they think it fitting to remove in a season so near winter For besides that they were likely to lose many men in their march by hardnesse and by flight for the Italians being made wary by former examples do not willingly pass the mountains they greatly feared to loose that reputation which the Spaniards do with such punctuality cherish if the businesse should not succeed according to their desires as they much doubted it would not Their answer therefore was faire in words and appearances but short in effects The end of the fifteenth Booke The Warres and other State-Affaires of the best part of Christendome THE XVI BOOK The Contents of the Sixteenth Book The Cardinall of Savoy comes to the confines of Piemont that by the assistance of Spaine he may enter into that state Hee indeavours to surprise Asti but in vaine the Dutchesse and the French are very jealous and suspect the Inhabitants Brisack after a long seidge being brought to extreamity is yealded to Weymar The Sweeds being reinforced advance make divers atcheevements Prince Thomas of Savoy comes from Flanders is received by the Spaniards and after many consultations hee enters Piemont with the Spanish forces and atcheeves many things The Spaniards under the command of Don Martine d' Aragona goe to before Chengio they take it and Don Martine is slaine The Dutchesse of Savoy much troubled at the proceedings of the Princes her bretheren in Law taketh in the French to guard Turine and the Cittadel there and
fellow Citizens Civill Warre ought to be thrown out from conversing with men and not to be admitted within the precincts of humane nature For the truth of what is herein written you heare the Author say in his Epistle part of it is drawn to the Life as actions whereof he himselfe hath been an eye witnesse the rest he termes a Copy yet such a one as is copied from the best hands he having been very curious in the choise of those whose relations he hath list'ned unto and made use of so as at least you may afford him an Historicall faith All that of my selfe I shall say concerning my Author is that in my life time I never mett with lesse appearing Partiality in any Treatise of the like nature partiality being a corruption wherein usually the greatest escape But to keep thee no longer from tasting better Viands by a homely break-fast I leave my Author to thy judgment and my selfe to thy Favourable Interpretation Iuly the 5 th 1647. The Author to the READER WHen I was arrived at a fitting age for the managing of armes my father Count Nicholas Gualdo Priorato Colonell and Campe-Master to the most illustrious state of Venice desirous that that service which for many yeares our family had discharâghed to our Prince in honourable and prime imployments should not find an interruption or stop in me sent me into Flanders where I was three yeares a voluntier amongst the chiefe commanders from thence I past into Germany and from thence to France whilst warre was there waged with the Hughenots being afterwards invited by the commotions of Italy which were great in Piemont and in the Ualceline I returned into Lombardy where I stayed till such time as the Plague being ceased and the warrs of Mantoa ended I had a minde to returne againe for Germany where I tarryed a long time with Walesteime being afterwards inforced to returne to mine owne country by reason of my fathers death which happened unto him in his returne from the government of Candia where having stayed some few dayes I had a minde tho see the King of Sweeds Army which bore so great fame whereupon I past the Alpes againe and spent about a yeare in those armyes under Marishall Horne and Duke Weymar All the time I was abroad and out of mine owne Country which was above the space of 14 yeares part whereof I spent in warres part in Princes Courts my indeavour was by the words and actions of other men to get the knowledge of Politique government and military observation upon all occasions at all times and in all places I weighed the reasons why men did rather thus then thus I diligently applyed my selfe to spy into the negotiations of Officers the difficulties of managing affaires and the issues or conclusions of treaties I thought it advantagious to observe the condition of Cheeftaines the councells of wisemen the conceptions of the Common people the opinions of the Nobility and the interests of great men I fixt mine eye upon the successe of undertakings upon the nature of Countryes the variety of manners the importancy of scituations and strong holds the considerablenesse of rivers the difficulty of passages the experience of Souldiers upon time place and causes and kept distinct notes of those things for my better memorys sake in the best manner I was able and as I was befriended by time wherein some times I was streightned sometimes had sufficient oportunity These rough draughts of mine coming to the sight of some of my friends afforded them occasion to perswade mee or to say better to constraine mee to print them promising me that if they could not be admitted into the narrow path of praise they would at least passe the gate of gratitude whether he sometimes gets who without pretence of merit doth by the sincerity of his will make amends for the faultinesse of his effects I confesse this their invitation seemed a dreame to me for to carry the splendid tables which in these dayes are so imbellished a dish ungarnished with the amber of invention and wanting the flowery garlands of stile is no better then to nauciate the guests But these my friends perswading me that men doe differ in their tasts that some like better what is tarte and sharpe than what is sweete and that the greediest understandings doe oft-times distaste meats too artificially cooked they did perswade me into this errour I say errour for if whosoever differs from the generall custome goes astray I who write my beard not being gray and without Horace his nine yeares rule shall peradventure be blamed for putting moderne actions to the presse written by a young head They freed mee also of this feare telling me that Horace was a Poet and that he spake of Poems Orations and other quaint composures not of History since that she which ought alwayes to be the picture of truth and without the attendants or imbellishments of witt is alwayes one and the same when the draught is made by the life and is much more comely naked then when cloathed by invented adornments drawne from time And they added hereunto that those who writt things which were acted many ages agoe doe it for that there being none to oversee them they may boldly tell some untruthes without feare of reprehension and if they compose with their hand upon the planke and their foot in the ditch they doe it least they become spectators to the anatomies of their owne workes I have therefore yeilded to slip yet but with one foote For though I have written all the warres of Bohemia France and Italy which have fallen out in my time I publish onely the successe of things from the moving of the King of Sweedes forces to the taking of Turin And have done this for that I thinke if what hath hapned in these eleaven yeares and which peradventure will be fullest of curiosity please not my former discourses will be lesse taking so as I may spare the labour which would be troublesome to me and tedious to the Reader Those actions where I was an eye witnesse are pictures drawne by the life that which I have received from the relation of others is a copy If such be not truely drawne the fault lyeth not in me who have copyed things as they have been discribed to me but in those who related them unto me It can hardly be made good that Copyes drawne from others hands conteyne in them a perfect forme for many overcome by passion or overswayed by affection speake as they would have it be Nor doth it avayle that things doe come from or be reported by great personages or well reputed Ministers of State for lyes like flyes flocke every where and where they most smell the sweete of curiosity there they take their station I have notwithstanding indeavoured to have the relations of what hath hapned from who have been present in the actions but not from every one that hath been so for many although
So Walestein as well to acquit himselfe of the favour received as likewise that his intention was not to stirre out of Germany that he might not grow lesse in authorities and for the feare hee had leât his Corrivalls might in his absence plot somewhat to his prejudice procured that imployment for the said Colalto to which the Emperour easily condiscended not so much out of the affection which hee bore to Walestein and Colalto as to satisfie the Spaniards who liked better of Colalto as one lesse haughty and who depended more upon them and set themselves close to this Warre for that the liberty of Italy consisting in the Counterpoising of the Forces of France alwayes desiring to assist that side where they would get footing if they should have wonne Casall a place of Retreat for the French Forces and a Fortresse able to keep the State of Millan in continuall Motion and the Common-wealth of Venice being weakned by the losse of Mantua which Common-wealth of Venice as Arbitrator of all actions in Italy by piously backing Justice is alwayes a helpe to the weakest and doth in part keep the Subjects of Italy alive they did not onely hope to secure the Millanneses but thereby to open the way for their Conquering the remainder of that Kingdome a Designe of all others alwaies most studied of the Spaniards He moreover knew that those of the Nation were ill-apaid that imployments should be conferred upon Strangers that the Haunce Towns Princes of the Empire little affected with the Austrian Government were jealous of the greatnes of the House of Austria and did mainly endeavour the weakning of it which hee observed might easily be effected for that the Emperour in likelihood would be contented to give way to the disbanding of the supernumerarie Forces or else to the sending of them out of the Empire upon some other employment thereby to make Electors at the Election of the King of the Romans willingly adhere to favour the King of Hungary and not more to exasperate those Princes Hee was likewise certifi'd that such Princes of Italy as the Emperour might hope for helpe from against the Protestants were not well contented to see the Imperiall power screwed up so high and were much troubled at the comming of the Army to Reine in Lombardy He hoped well in assistance and diversions from France which by the victories of Lewis the Thirteenth was brought into a peacefull and triumphant condition He hoped likewise for helpe from the King of England who was not well satisfied with the Austrian party for their usurping of the states of the Count Palatins his Nephewes He was no lesse confident of Holland a growing Common-wealth enricht by many Forces both by Sea and Land Hee then saw the occasion was fitting which he knew was not to be neglected but that he was to reassume that Warre which being with little successe begun by others had no other hopes but from his try'd valour To the effecting of these Designes of the yeare 1629. Many Commanders were well received in Swethland who had been returned from the Caesarian Army and from that Army which was sent to assist the King of Polonia under the Conduct of Harnem which was given out to be done by the good will of Walestein who intirely hating every one that did but speak of Reformation desired such Innovations as might make the Emperor know how ill he was advised in lissening to those who by a peacefull way did cunningly lead him to a more dangerous Warre Having received good Intelligence by these and giving them speedy Commissions to raise Forces and on the other side having gathered together the remainder of the Army which was brought back from the Warres of Livonia and having taking such order as was requisite for the Souldiers pay in Gothland Finland and Smoland hee in a few Moneths space found himselfe ready to bee served and obeyed by a strength of old Souldiers to the number of above twelve Thousand Foot and Horse And now hee thought himselfe to bee in a good posture to have ground enough to raise his plotted Designes upon and to hoise Saile for Pomerania Pomerania extends it selfe along the Shore of the Baltique Sea it is bounded on the East by Poland and on the West by the Dukedome of Mechelberg inlarged afterwards by fruitfull Territories even to the Confines of the Marquisate of Brandemburg She receives into her selfe the Noble Oder one of the famous Rivers of Germany which falling from the utmost parts of Moravia upon the Confines of Silicia runnes into the Lake called Grosse Haffe The King having to this purpose called all his Captaines and Officers together and the greatest part of the chiefe of his Kingdomes out of the which the King by a Fundamentall Law cannot upon what pretence soever goe without the consent of all the Orders at Sâocholme the City of his Residence placed right over against Pomerania looking on the South side upon the Sea by two great Armes whereof it is girt about would in publike make knowne what his Designes were Thus being all in the great Hall of his Court hee demonstrated unto them with valid reasons the necessity of this Warre as well for the preservation of his owne Kingdome in quiet as for the maintenance of their Faith and in a very feeling manner enlarged himselfe to this effect That the Empire was now growne to that height as that the thirsty ambition of the greatest therein exceeding their owne limits would spread their Resolutions even over his State since it was evidently seen how he was injur'd by the Imperialists who never having had any thing to doe with the Baltick Sea had now declared Walestein to be Admirall thereof an Usurpation not to be endured by a couragious King that the Princely name of Swethland had in their Imperiall Diets beene villified with scurrilous Writings and Hostill Edicts that he suffered in his Honour by the Austrian Ministers of State that his vast mind cryed for revenge that the occasion of enlarging and securing their Dominions ought not to be let slip by Princes who had their wits about them that Honour Religion and Greatnesse were the things now in question that his Forces did not now differ from them of former times so much dreaded which had brought under the fairest Nation of Europe that the World would say the same of times past that the like Fortune as Alexander Caesar and Achilles had would not be wanting to one of as undaunted a Courage that it did not misbecome a King to quit his owne Countrey whose minde being bent upon Glory Greatnesse and his Subjects Happinesse should not bee imbased by the leasure of Courts that to spend his Talent in the Luxuries and Pleasures of Peace did not become a Prince who had been brought up in Martiall Exercises and lastly hee with a loud voyce said that he would either Sacrifice himselfe to the Negligence of his Fortune or else returne unto his Kingdome
of Gustavus Horne to take in Dam a place not far from Stettin standing upon a little River called Plana which being manned by five hundred Austrians and wanting moderne Fortifications compounded upon the first sight of the Swedish Cannon and went himselfe in person with the rest before Newgarten a little Towne walled about upon the side of a little Lake derived from the River Hamerbeck and wherein were about foure hundred Souldiers in Garrison he in two dayes made himselfe Master of it then running over that slip of land which lies betweene the aforesaid River of Hamerbeck and the River Meltanne he tooke Criffenburg a Towne watered by Rega and Triptoe seated on the utmost parts of Pomerania towards the sea upon the banks of Meltanne which without any contestation yeilded on the other side Gustavus Horne repassing over the Oder quickly tooke in Costin Freinwalt Anchan and Ockermand all of them walled Townes of Pomerania beyond the Oder towards the West and all of them guarded by Imperiall Garrisons which being only fortified by ancient Rampiers and high Towers suddenly compounded and the greatest part of those Souldiers who amazed at the prosperous successe of the Swedes knew not whether to flye for safety enrolled themselves under the Swedish Colours passing from hence he likewise won Passevalke Barth and Grimmen places which though of small defence yet for the Imperialists to retreat unto Then considering that if the prop of Griffenhaghen should be taken from the Imperialists the rest of the Townes which were held in those parts by the Romanists would be much weakned he came before Honigsberg a Town walled about after the ancient manner and guarded by five hundred Souldiers seated in the furthermost part of Pomerania upon the Confines of Maria nova he took it in three dayes There came in moreover to his obedience Lippin by the side of a little Lake from whence the River Mizaell takes its rise Arsnsnalde a Towne upon the shore of Ina Bernsheine a Towne upon the same River and Bârwalde which lyes betweene Mizell and Ronigsberg all of them weakely walled about after the ancient manner and of small resistance The fame of the Swedes proceedings being this meane while spread abroad in France and England whereat these two Crownes did much rejoyce The King of Great Brittaine whom the restitution of the Palatinate much concerned solicited the promised Levy which being begun by foure thousand Foot destined for the King of Swethlands service and furnishing him with good summes of Money he tyed himselfe in streighter bonds or friendship with him the French likewise who for the interest of State coveted this diversion by the which they might the more easily succour Montferrat and which was the proper way to moderate the Spaniards greatnesse which growing more powerfull did more and more covet the Universall Monarchie and filled all the Potentates of Europe with Jealousie sent Mounsieur de Carnace Embassadour to the King of Swethland as well to congratulate his happy entry as to make good what he had promised him before his marching which Embassadour was by the King received with great alacrity and after some short negotiations a League was concluded betweene these two Crownes the 22. day of January in the yeare 1631. in the Campe at Barwalde the grounds whereof were That the Princes who were oppressed by the Austrian Faction should be restored to their former States Townes and liberty and that for the maintenance of this War his most Christian Majestie would pay every yeare foure hundred thousand Dollars This agreement being of no small support to the Swedish affaires as well for the reall assistance as for the reputation got by the friendship of so puissant a King to the which many German Princes as also Forreners ought to have had respect before they should have undertaken to have assisted the Imperialists was magnificently solemnized with the greatest demonstrations of joy and jubile which by the Swedes could be exprest great Bonfires were made aswell in the Campe as in the Cities and Forts which they had won The Cannon was heard to go off incessantly for three nights together feasts and banquets were celebrated with all expression of joy the generall satisfaction caused by this new amity was every where easily to be discerned The King having likewise at the same time received three hundred thousand Dollars from the King of England and having notice how the people that were raised for his service to the number of two thousand Foot were under saile in the Haven of Dover under the conduct of the Marquesse Hamilton to go for Pomerania and finding his Army much inforced by many Leavies made by his Commanders in the neighbouring Provinces from which many of the Enemies Souldiers fled away he saw he was not now to refuse his good fortune but to march forward with his Forces to new Conquests his Army then being Mustered at Stettin in the presence of the French Embassadour was found to consist of about twenty thousand gallant Souldiers all well Disciplin'd and though the Imperiall Forces in Gratz Greffinhaghen did much oppresse Pomerania insomuch as he was desired by the Inhabitants to ease them of that burthen yet not approving to turne into those parts he held it better to passe with his Army into the Dutchy of Mechelburg and to get footing also in those parts aswell that he might draw neare the Landgrave of Hessen who having declared himselfe for the Swedish Party and made offer of his life and fortune unto the King gave pay unto eight thousand Souldiers as likewise that he might hold intelligence with Lubeck Hamburg and other Haunce towns which having driven the Imperialists from them he might much advantage himselfe by them for they were stored with people and with Money and ãâã many Protestant Princes had withdrawne themselves thither for shelter from the fury of the Imperialists who had then seized upon their Provinces where together with those helpes he should receive no little advantage by the rising of those Inhabitants who for the publique liberty would not refuse to spend such wealth as they should bring with them which they could not better lay out then for the recovery of their Countrey and the maintenance of the publique quiet Hereunto was added that the Dutchy of Mechelburg coasting upon Pomerania and the Marquessat of Brandenburg the latter was thereby the more secure and the Elector taking pretence from the Armies at hand of the King his Brother in Law thereby to free himselfe from Caesars obedience he sound it would be no hard matter to get him to declare himselfe the King was moreover hereunto moved by the alliance of the Dukes his Nephews of that name for being dispossest by the Imperialists and their States conferred upon Walesteine a private Subject it was a thing that could not be suffered either by the King or by the Princes nor by the Haunce Townes He therefore imbarqued his Army at Stettin the sixth of September
and arrived happily at Stralshund where being received with the generall applause of the Citizens and having taken good order there for the preservation of the publique liberty he came before Damgart seated upon the River Rechenits which comming out of a little Lake near the Village Kra-Kawne in the Confines of Mechelburg towards the Electorate of Brandenburg runs into the Ocean not far from Stralshand Damgart was fortified with strong towers wals after the ancient manner but Stralshund without Workes and Fortifications after the moderne fashion and by a Fort which the Romanists had built upon the mouth of the River This place was furiously set upon with Mattockes and Cannon the bullets whereof found passage through their Parrapats not yet wholly finished after a contention of sixe dayes the Defendants being so obstinate in the defence thereof as that they despised all advantagious conditions And though they saw their ruine at hand yet still persevering in their weake defence they were by a furious assault made by the Swedes the King looking on forced to forgoe their Parrapats upon which the Swedes mounted and without delay closely following the fugitives they without mercy slew as many of them as they overtooke At the same time the King who fully imparted his intelligence sent some of his Forces to scale Ribbinets another Fort upon the said Rechenits and not far from Damgart which he likewise tooke and tooke the Governour thereof who was a Spaniard prisoner five hundred of the Garrison putting themselves under his Collours This as being a Passe of consequence opened unto him an ingresse into the Dutchie of Mechelburg and did likewise facilitate his getting of Rostoch the Metropolis of that Province well fortified round about with Moderne Fortifications and which stands upon the River Warnaw a River which taking its head neare a little Village called Warnâw from whence it hath its name falls into the Baltique Sea after it hath so inlarged it selfe ãâã unto ãâã as bearing upon it the greatest Ships that go upon the Westerne Seas it makes that place a Haven of great esteeme He was without any manner of resistance received into this City and having exhorted the people and Citizens to acknowledge their Lord and to drive from amongst them those who adheared to Walesteine not leaving any garrison there but recommended it to the care of the Magistrate he marched too before Wismar a chiefe City likewise of the said Dutchy of Mechelburg munited with Moderne Parrapets and well Garrisoned standing upon an Angle of a Gulph of the Sea whereby it is made a faire receptacle for Merchants Ships The Imperialists having notice of this unexpected Invasion upon the Territories of Mechelburg and finding the importancie thereof gathered themselves together at Gastrowe in the greatest numbers that they could withdrawing all the uselesse Garrisons from the neighbouring places and marcht to Sterneburg a Towne which is watered by a little Lake and being here advertised that the Swedes had made no stay in Rostoch and that they were by the Citizens thereof desired to come and regaine it they bethought themselves how they might get it which they easily did They sent some of their squadrons of Horse towards the City faigning to turne towards Doberan a Towne a little above Rostoch towards the Sea they goe into it and possesse themselves of it suffering the Inhabitants to goe forth For not yet secure of any resistance to be made by the Swedes they feared lest by any hostile Declaration they might exasperate the Caesarians who had yet many strong Holds in that Province And because the Imperialists intentions were to abandon all the Dukedome of Mechelburg unlesse it were Rostoch and Wismer that they might make use of their men in the Field they over-ran the Countrey and withdrew into those two places all whatsoever they could get from the Townes and Villages of that State pretending they did this to the end that the Swedes might not make use of the Corne Hay and Farradge and that the Forts which they intended to keep might be the better munitioned The newes of the surprisall of Rostoch and the Austrians advancing into that Province who were re-inforced by men sent unto them by Torquato Conti made the King alter his resolution for not thinking he could advantage himselfe by making any longer stay in those parts he raised his Army from the places where they were and returned to Ribbinits and having taken order for sufficient provisions and safety for that place as likewise for Damgart places upon all occasions fit to give him entrance into the State And having left Bannier with foure thousand Foot and eight hundred Horse to guard those places He sent the Duke of Saxony Luenburg into Hamborg and Lubecks to solicite the raising of men in those parts and to manite the Forts thereabouts that they might be ready to succour the Lansgrave of Hesse if he should be set upon by Count Popenhaime who giving out that he would do so was diligent in the raising of men in the Territories of Woulfembutell and Brunswicke He with the rest of his Army returned to ãâã where he stayed six dayes negotiating businesse of very great import and thinking it was now time to answer the Emperors Letter and to justifie his designe in taking up Armes he writ unto his Caesarian Majesty to this purpose That having very oft complained unto him of the indiscretion of his Ministers of State he had never listned unto him much lesse given a favourable hearing to his just pretentions that his Crowne had beene injured by the usurpation of Titles over the Baltique Sea conferred upon Walesteine and by many injuries done unto his Subjects in the Ports of Pomerania that he had rejected all the Propositions that he had caused to be made and that last he was enforced to seeke for satisfaction by way of Armes since his words nor intreaties could prevaile that therefore he was not entred Germany any waies to do outrage to the Imperiall Crowne but to succour his friends and confederates since Princes are obliged to their Neighbours beyond the tye of friendship even for the interest of their owne States that he would at all times be willing to give way unto an honest and faire agreement Provided that before any Treaty all States Cities and Provinces which had bin oppressed should be re-established and satisfaction should be made to his Crowne for the charge he had already been at by reason of this War Having recommended the Government and vigilancy over such places as he had taken to the Governour thereof he parted the Tenth of November from Stralshund and having brought his Army neare Griffenburg situated upon the bankes of Rega a River which proceeding from a little Lake made by the River Trage fals into the Sea He sent part of his Army before Coleburg a place seated upon the bankes of the Baltique Sea very strong both by Art and situation and knowing that to storme it or take it
it on three sides with five Batteries which played continually and the Trenches of Approach were with all diligence brought by the Swedes even to the edge of the Ditch of the out-works whereat the Imperialists were so astonished as though they wanted neither Men Munition nor good Rampires for their Defence yet for that bold enterprizes are for the most part seconded by Fortune they seemed as if they had been inchanted to have lost their senses for at the very first onset they little to their honour forsook a strong Tenaglia which for the better defence of the Port Geben was guarded by foure hundred Foot which was the chiefe cause of the losse of the City for the Swedes as the enemy retired got upon the Rampire and advanced even to the Draw-bridge of the Gate where making two Petars to play they at five of the Clocke at night entred and because the entrance of the second Gate was stifly resisted which being inclosed with a great Trench furnished with many Morter-Peeces was not to be won The King who upon such like occasions was beyond measure diligent and fortunate casting his eye upon the Wall which within the Gate was upheld by the ramm'd in earth of the Bulwarks made it suddenly be dug through And whilst the Imperialists busied themselves in the defence of the second Gate not foreseeing the Kings designe on the other part fifty of the boldest of the Kings Foot entred by the hole in the Wall upon the Rampiers and won two Caveliers which stood over the Wall on the left hand of the said Gate and turning the Cannon upon the City did by this surprisall so amaze the besiedged as not knowing what to do they began to thinke how to save their lives therefore making no longer resistance they ran towards the Gate that leades to the Oder that they might passe over and retire themselves in safety to Landsperg But the Swedes roundly charging them and the Imperialists not finding free passage over the Bridge for it was incumbred with Carriages most part of the Souldiers fell into the water and were at the mercy of their Enemies who in hot bloud as in such encounters is usually seene refused to give life to any one that looked like a Souldier and tooke the City using such severe cruelty as in the like case is usually done by Souldiers The losse of Franckfort which was guarded by Sixe Thousand Souldiers as it was of great prejudice to the Austrian affaires and a great abatement to the courage and hopes of the Romanists the greater was the advantage the Swedish occasions got thereby and the greater the Kings comfort who seeing it was now no longer time to pause but to display the sailes of diligence before the good wind of propitious Fortune leaving good guard at Franckfort and fitting directions for the conservation thereof he unlooked for threw himselfe upon Crossen placed in that Angle of the River Queis which gushing out of the Oder gives the name to a good space of ground and then enlarging it selfe to the Confines of Brandenburg and Sagar runs into Pomerania and Sletia Crossen was defended by three hundred Imperialists and many of the best Inhabitants of the neighbouring Villages had withdrawne themselves and the best things they had thither From thence he came before Landsperg against which he planted his batteries and began his Trenches whilst those of the Garrison did valiantly oppose the Swedes The young Count de Gratz who commanded in cheife within the Towne and who was a gallant Commander and one on whom the Souldiers did very much relye was slaine in a brave sally which he made against the Swedes first works The King hereupon threatning a generall assault the Souldiers being much danted by the death of their Chiefetany and the harmes which they continually received from the Enemy resolved to come to an agreement as they did on the sixteenth of April One thousand five hundred Foot marching forth with their weapons bag and baggage Drums beating matches lighted and foure peeces of Cannon By this losse of Landsperg the way being opened to the Swedes into the Electorate of Brandenburg the King thought he had fitting occasion to perswade the Elector to declare himselfe since that his Country being exposed to the Invasion of the Kings Forces it was not to be beleeved that that Prince who was allied unto him by bloud and of the same Religion would refuse his friendship for the Emperours of whose power the Princes of Germany especially the Protestants were not a little jealous Having then made a Bridge upon Boates over the River Spree a River which comes from the furthermost parts of Bohemia towards the upper Lusatia and by her watering those Provinces is of much advantage to them he sent a Trumpet into Brandenburg and desired he might be received in as a friend but there being in the Town a Governor with some of the Forces of the League the King was intreated to tarry till they might advertise Tilly and twelve dayes being granted them to this purpose the said Souldiers did those daies being expired forsake the Towne and withdrew themselves into the Campe before Magdeburg the King entred thereinto to the great content of the people where making no stay he advanced forward towards Berlin the place of the Electors residence situated upon the side of the said Spree where the Elector then was thinking it fitting and becomming civility to use faire meanes first and to captivate the Electors good will rather by agreement than by force He sent the Count Ortenberg to Berlin to acquaint him with the reasons of his comming into his Territories where he intended to demeane himselfe as a friend and kinsman and that his undertakings had only respect to the Common liberty and the preservation of Religion for the which all Princes were bound to unsheath their Swords and to moderate the greatnesse of that House which too greedy of other mens Dominions aymed at nothing but to command over all that his intention was to succour Magdeburg which was in amity with him and in all respects worthy of his protection he therefore invited his Highnesse to do the like and to lend him assistance the Electors being no lesse obliged to the defence of the Common liberty then were the other Protestants that therefore he desired Kusterin and Spandaw for his owne security and Victualls and Amunition for his Army during the enterprize But Ortenbergs negotiation doing no good nor yet the like of Gustavus Horne who was sent after the other by the King to the same purpose he resolved to march forward with his Army for that love joyned with feare might peradventure make him incline to that which was ballanced with another greater doubt The Elector bearing of the Kings being come and knowing himselfe to be so inferiour in strength and other succours as that he could not shun this visit making use of this just occasion to excuse himselfe unto the Emperour for
that he was necessitated by Armes and the selfe interest of his owne State and out of no other reason to make friendship with the King he together with the greatest part of his nobility came forth of Berlin to meet the King with whom after he had discoursed two houres and was satisfied with his negotiation hee offered to assist him in all he could declared himselfe to be one of his confederates And having sumptuously received him into Berlin he assigned over unto him Spandaw and Kusterin but the King thought he should not be able to succour Brandenburg with his owne Forces only which were much lessened by the Garrisons he was forced to leave in such places as he had taken besides the Troopes of Souldiers which he had sent with Baudis and Horne to waite upon Shamburg and Tieffenbach whose numbers every day encreasing in the Dutchy of Crossen and Sletia it seemed they aymed at some great businesse All things fitting therefore agreed upon between him and the Elector he went from Berlin and comming to Potstin a place betweene Berlin and Brandenburg upon the bankes of Havell he invited the Duke of Saxony to joyne with him in the relieving of Magdeburg or at least that he would give passage for his Army to do it But the Elector who was afraid to offend Tilly and to draw the War into his owne Country with great complements but uncorrespondent effects answered That he had taken an Oath unto the Emperour that he had not yet had any occasion to violate it nor to adhere to any resolution which might prove prejudiciall to Caesars Crowne all these excuses seemed to little purpose and invalid to the King who thought that the Austrians bare attempting upon the liberty of a Hauns Towne to the which they had no pretence had been reason enough to make the Duke resolve to assist him without scruple of breach of his promise or Oath since nothing was demanded of the Emperour but that which he unduly usurped he signified unto him that he would hereafter repent of this and that all in good time he would put him in mind of it yet neither these nor any other reasons were able to prevaile with the Elector for he being howsoever subject to eminent danger the Armies of both Parties lying round about him he very cunningly held off to see how affaires went thinking himselfe as a great Prince to be alwaies in condition to declare himselfe time enough for that side by which his Territories might be the more secured Tilly much troubled at the Kings so prosperous successe especially that he should make himselfe Master of their best strengths in sight as a man may say of his Army revolved many things in his mind how he might regaine his oppressed reputation and get some advantage by this warre On the one side the losse of those Cities which were recommended to the care of his Valour did much torment him and therefore willingly would hee have marched to the regaining of them on the other side he solaced himselfe againe in the consequence of the businesse of Magdeburg on the perfecting of which Siege his minde was still bent the which if he should give over it was most apparent that he should not onely grow lesse in mens opinion but the Protestants gathering daily better heart much trouble would thereby redound unto him moreover the Swedes having this place of refuge struck awe into all the Provinces of Germany since thereby they had passage to turne themselves whither they list which would cause a generall feare throughout all the neighbouring parts But that which was of greatest concernment was that if the King might have that City for a shelter to himself and his Army he would not onely over-run all the parts thereabouts but might lead his Forces into Bohemia which was full of Protestants ill-affected to the Imperialists and undoubtedly bring the Elector of Saxony and the rest of the Hauns Townes to declare themselves on whose friendship the Imperialists did very much build Setting therefore aside all the vexation he received by the daily newes of the Swedes proceedings hee applyed himselfe wholly to the winning of Magdeburg the which it is thought he the rather did for that hee held secret Intelligence within the Towne The Roman Catholiques were thus quartered at the siege of Magdeburg Tilly kept his Quarters about the Sconce Zoll Count Popenhaine environed the wayes that led from Newstat the Duke of Holestaine enlarged his Quarters almost to Croken and Count Mansfield bound in the Precincts of the Campe with his Station on the side of Heckdeck and the Fort Marsh. They had already made their approaches on these foure sides even to the edge of the Counterscarfe but their entrance thereupon was hindred by the continuall playing of the Cannon and Musquets from the Towne insomuch as Tilly perceiving it would be a businesse of difficulty and that all delay redounded much to the prejudice of his intentions betook himselfe to stratagem and using the correspondency which hee held within the Towne that were well-affected to the Imperiall party he withdrew his Artillery from the Batteries against the Bulwarks of Lauburg to the end that by this cessation the besieged might bee enamoured of the Kings happy proceedings and might thinke that the Enemies Army being thereby called back was now providing to dislodge This their seeming removall was well handled by them and better confirmed by those they held correspondency withall within the Towne for they making as if they knew that Tilly was providing to be gone did with extraordinary joy divulge their opinions whereupon conformable to humane nature which is well pleased when events prove answerable to their desires even drunke with this hope and blinded with this conceipt they studied more how to expresse their joy with invitations and feastings then with diligence and sufficient guards to watch over their owne safetie Tilly being punctually advertised of all these things thought it not good to let slip this occasion but to effect what he had determined with all his art and industry he to this purpose on the 19 of May called Popenhaine and all the Generalls and Captaines of the Army to a Councell of Warre where having discoursed upon this designe they all joyned in a resolution to set upon the Walls of the Citie on all sides by a generall and valiant Scalado For being advertised by their Spies that Guards were not kept and that through the confidence the Citizens had in their Workes they little minded their keeping of Sentinels they hoped without doubt to reape some good hereby The Agreement then being made having chosen out the Valiantest and Ablest Men they had and made Provision of Ladders Bridges and Petars on the 20 day of the said Moneth early in the morning before the breake of day the Signe was given by the discharging of 30 pieces of Cannon and Popenhaine Mansfield Tilly and the Duke of Holesteine did from their severall Quarters
furiously set upon the Citie Walls commanding their Musketiers who were placed upon the edge of the Counter-scarffe to shoot incessantly to keepe them off that should come to the Parrapits and that the Souldiers appointed thereunto should Scale the Walls which on all sides was punctually observed But no breach being made and it proving very hard for the Souldiers to Scale those high Walls with their Ladders they being likewise so well flanked with opposite Bulwarks they were forced to give over with no little losse Popenhaine notwithstanding who knew by the intelligence he had that the place he was to assault was the weakest and worst man'd egg'd on his Souldiers assuring them of Rich Booties and threatning those that should give back and though many tumbled from off the Ladders into the Ditches yet their places were continually supplied by fresh men who inraged at the difficultie they met withall and the succour not being yet come which sent by Falckenbridge they got unto the top of the Parrapet and raysed up an Ensign whereat their companions much encouraged cryed out Victory Victory and Scaling the Walls a vye by whole Squadrons and covering themselves with earth by the meanes of their Mattocks and Spades they turned the Cannon upon the Citie and at last got further ground For after a long and obstinate resistance they wonne into a street and followed by the other Souldiers who were the more eager for that they had been beaten back they without any mercy slew the Defendants and Citizens and the Citie was in short time sacked and burnt to ashes which hapned by the carelesenesse of a Souldier who throwing aside his Musket with the Match lighted to get up the stairs in a Drugsters house the Match set fire on a barrel of Brimstone and this taking hold of other cumbustable matters the fire did so dilate it selfe as the houses being built of wood all was destroyed The cruelties used by the Souldiers in the sacking of this Citie was such as is fearefull to say or write Let it suffice that good men were of opinion that God was then so incensed against the Roman Catholiques as that he permitted that fire to the end that they might not enjoy the wealth which with more sobrietie and humanitie they might have possessed themselves of The end of the first Book DOCTRINA PARIT VIRTUTEM The Warres and other State-Affaires of the best part of Christendome THE II. BOOK The Contents of the Second Booke In the Second Booke is contained what confusion the losse of Magdenburg caused amongst the Protestants The King of Swedes advancing to the succour of Saxony The Protestant Electors declaring of themselves in favour of the King Their joyning of their Forces and their resolutions to fight with the Imperialists The Battell of Lipsick and the Swedes vistory The Damages the Austrians sustained hereby Their condition after the Battell What perplexity the Austrian Councell was in touching the chusing of a new Generall of the Army The differenâs in opinion betweene the Germans and the Spaniards The Emperours declaring himselfe for Walesteine to be Generall The meanes used by Walesteine to recruit the Army His great policy The Imperialists negotiation with the Pope and other Princes Vselesse Charles Duke of Lorrayne his declaring of himselfe for the Austrian Party His putting himselfe into Armes prejudiciall to his State The Austrians comming to rayse new troubles in France Their Treaties with the Duke of Orleans Their ends The King of Swedes advancement into the Palatinate and upon the Reine Treaties of Peace moved by Walesteine with Saxony The taking of Mentz THe taking of Magdenburg and the usage there as it was to all men unexpected so was it of great griefe to the Protestants who well weighing this event began to lessen their high pitcht thoughts wherein they had formerly framed unto themselves such vast designes for they argued that if the Romanists had with so little labour taken so strong a City and of such defence they would more easily take others which partooke of much imperfection The Swedes and their King were in particular very much grieved hereat the King himselfe was more vext then any other at the losse of this City that since it did so freely declare it selfe for him he should suffer it to be lost in the sight even as it were of his so victorious an Army he struck his foot against the ground and vowed to revenge and to serve them the same sauce who had used themselves so inhumanly he more particularly resented the behaviour of the Souldiers of the League who had been more barbarous in their usage then the rest And least the other Cities which were ready to side with him might by this successe be deluded so stagger in their resolutions as doubting his assistance he published in Print the reasons causes of this losse and why he had not formerly succoured it That the fault lay in the Citizens themselves who not valuing his Counsell and not seeking to obviate the treachery of their Magistrates had of themselves pulled this ruine upon them that he had played the part of a good friend by the taking of many almost impregnable places that the Electors of Brandenburg and Saxony had denyed him passage that he neither could neither ought he to march foure Leagues in an Enemies Country with so many Cities at his backe and on all sides of him by which his Army might without fighting been utterly lost that the best he could do was to take in Franckfort Landsperg and other places which made for his advancing and that he had spared no labour nor pretermitted any diligence to relieve it Tilly stayed sixe daies after this about Magdeburg where he caused Te deum to be sung and tooke order for the recruiting of his Army and leaving Philip Count Mansfield there in place of Commissary and Governour and for that he was informed that the King of Sweden was come unto Tangermund a Towne not farre from thence watered by the Elbe where he had throwne over a Bridge and provided for his safety by cutting of two strong Trenches on both sides the River he thought it was now time to provoke him to battel upon the Victory whereof the re-establishment of affaires did depend he therefore marched with his Army towards these parts intending to fight with him But the King knew himselfe not to be in case with those few Forces he had to joyne battell with an Army versed in victories and this the rather for that he had sent Gustavus Horne away with part of his Army to the taking in of Gripswould he therefore stayed within his Trenches yet seemed not at all to feare the Enemy but kept in play with frequent skirmishes both of Horse and Foot And being desirous to recrute his Army he arose from before Tangermund and leaving strong Garrisons in Franckfort Landsperg and other parts thereabouts he came to Stettin to raise fresh Troopes and that he himselfe might
suggestions of the Spanish Ministers of State to keepe quiet within his owne dominions and peacefully to injoy that which hee could not so easily preserve in warre These reasons though very strong and such as the Duke had hee been wise should have followed were neither embraced nor rejected but the greater part of his Councell who were wisely by the Spaniards kept partiall on their side either by pensions hopes or promises thinking it not fit to forgo the friendship and protection of the Austrian party for any pretence or threats of the King of France grounding their hopes upon the event of the secret practice held by the Spaniard by the Duke of Orleans and other Princes of France which was to raise new troubles in France whereby they might inlarge their owne limits said Peace was alwayes good where Warre was harmfull as it was likewise alwayes prejudiciall when by the idlenesse thereof ruine was well-nigh caused that wise men ought to observe the meanes how to secure their dominions which was not to be done by suffering their neighbours to increase in power that Princes were alwayes in suspition either to be treated as vassalls or to lose their estate when they suffered themselves to be brought into the bosome of one greater then themselves That France was no more powerfull then it was daily indeavouring to increase its power that the memory of their pretensions upon Lorayne a faire Jewell for the Crowne was of great efficacy that fit occasions to weaken such Forces as we stand in feare of ought not to be let slip when the permitting of them may cause jealousie that it was better to hazard ones selfe in warre then to be sure to lose all in peace that inferiour Princes thought it a great advantage to have a sanctuary whereunto to fly when they are injured by their superiours that nothing could preserve Lorayne from the ambition of the French but protection from Spaine that it might be said to be lost between the Swedish and the French Forces that reason of State would have Alsatia preserved Burgundie kept flourishing Flanders strengthened and France troubled that the King wanting issue was lesse observed by his subjects that such successours as were most adhered unto by the unstable and wavering multitude had reason to hope well that therefore Orleans ought to be fomented and that it was safer to follow the Austrian party then by fearing the French Forces to grant them that which would be more profitable to deny them Although these reasons prevailed much with the Duke who was sufficiently thereunto inclined and did lively worke upon the affection which he bore the Imperiallists occasioned by the good entertainment he had received from them whilest he was a Voluntier in their Armies against the Count Palatine during the life of his Unckle Duke Anthony yet for that the fiercest spirits are sometimes kept under by the scourge or rod of the more powerfull fearing the inundation of the French upon his State who were already in readinesse and had a good will thereunto he by the advise of his Councell resolved upon a peece of cunning which was to satisfie the King with complements and faire words and with all outward appearance which might make him forbeare his threats and to conceale the ill will he bare him to a fitter occasion And for that the French a Nation of all others of a more nimble spirit boldnesse of minde and unquiet disposition are hardly pleased or contented with the idlenesse of peace but still desiring novelty is oft times prodigall of its wisedome and runs without foundation to graspe at shadowes which to their passion seeme bodies those that had seduced the Queene Mother to absent her selfe from the Court and to put her selfe into the hands of the Spaniard being still distasted with the present condition of affaires and thinking they should be more esteemed of when they were forth of the Kingdome then when in it having likewise wrought upon the Duke of Orleans the Kings only brother to incense him against the Cardinall Richelieu an officer of State to whom the whole government of the Kingdome being committed did faithfully governe it and with so much advantage as France had never before knowne upon pretence that the authority wherewith this man was intrusted belonged better to a Brother then any other subject feeding him with vast hopes kept him still in Lorayne The Spaniards by whose knowledge all this businesse was set on worke considered how much the troubles of France would make for their greatnesse and the profit they might receive by the Civill discords of that Kingdome whose union was their jealousie and was only able to counter-ballance their desired ends and this so much the rather for that by reason of the French Forces falling downe upon the Frontiers of Germany they rationally enough suspected they might have called the Swedes into those parts to frighten the Roman Catholiques and consequently invite them to flye for protection to them whereby fencing themselves from being injured by the Protestants and without unsheathing their sword yea under a religious pretence this was a fitting meanes to possesse themselves of many Forts of great importance But it being foreseene by the wisedome of the Austrian Councell that this was the Center wherein the lines of many circumstances of reflection was to fall for that the getting of the French are such as are much facillitated by the peoples necessity who had no other meanes Spaine being growne too weake to defend themselves against the warre but by their protection and that as this would be a considerable addition to the greatnesse of France so would it be no small trouble to the Austrian power since it was not in good policy of State to be permitted Hence it is that many thinke they upheld the fearefull with hopes fomented the male-contents with Counsell and endeavoured to stirre such as were constant by feigned appearances so as these practises passing from one to another already infected with treachery as the Duke of Momerancy Dukes of Rohan and Delbeaf the Bishops of Vsiers Nismes and Besiers and many other principall subjects the businesse seemed already to have had a good beginning But on the one side they found the Swedes proceedings to be such as neither the German Forces nor yet the Forces of Flanders which were much weakened seemed to be any wayes able openly to second the commotions in France and that the straights whereinto they were by the Swedes reduced did not well comport with the irritating of France and thereby drawing upon them a dangerous warre and on the other side they considered that to passe by such an occasion as this whereby to moderate the greatnesse of France was to lose that wisedome which as the Pilot of the Spanish Counsels brought their resolutions oftentimes to a happy shore since wise Polititians ought never to abandon those undertakings out of feare which may suffocate feare nor embase themselves in those difficulties which
thereof the which he might as easily have taken as the Swedes did when they tooke it had not the Ringrave who was very diligent in Military executions succoured it by charging upon the Caesarians whom he drove to the very gates of Brisach and slew fiftie of them On the other side the Imperialists were gotten to be a considerable number in Slesia towards Sweinitz and with little gaine-saying prospered in that Province the Saxons being marcht into the Field they seemed fearefull to make any new adventures and that they adjourned their designes waiting for Walesteines comming in the Field who after having made great Provision of Cannon Ammunition and other Engines of Warre departed from Prage and though the morning that he went forth the skyes were very cleare yet on the suddaine there rose a terrible storme of Wind Raine and Haile and as he lay that night at Brandais the Towne was set on fire and the greatest part thereof burnt to the ground and great store of Carriages and Cattell were likewise burnt which prodigious accident was thought to foretell no great good fortune likely to befall him He passed on to Chinegrats upon the Confines of Bohemia towards Slesia where he mustered his Army wherein were found to be 140 Foot Ensignes 180 Cornets of Horse 28 pieces of great Cannon and 2000 well furnished Carriages Heere he divided his Army sending Holke with 7000 Souldiers towards Egra to secure Bohemia on that side as likewise to oppose any attempts Duke Waymer might make who had neere about 6000 fighting men consisting partly of his owne men partly of those he had drawne out of the neighbouring Garrisons with the which in the beginning of May he advanced from Franconia At the newes hereof the Elector of Saxony apprehending danger in Walesteines marching with so great Forces towards Slesia and the suspension of Armes being fruitlessely expired he suddenly assembled together all the Forces that were upon the Confines of Bohemia together with those of Brandenburg and the Swedes that were disperst about those parts and gave order that they should march under the command of Tuball towards Neisse to watch over the Caesarian proceedings who being well-nigh 16000 fighting men lay not far from thence expecting Walesteine who stayd eight dayes in Golts a Towne neere Velstritz in expectation of Forces from Bohemia and an answer from the Court of Saxony concerning the particular of Peace which was never by them imbraced but alwayes wisely managed with new conditions The Duke of Bavaria fearing lest by Walesteins being so far off and by the great recruits of Souldiers which the Swedes every day made upon the Confines of his Dukedome his Dominions might receive some notable prejudice he gave command that all the Corne Hay and best moveables of the Villages thereabouts should be brought into the walled Townes and strong holds to the end that if the Swedes should offer at any enterprise they mought not find wherewithall to maintaine their Army and consequently wanting behoofefull necessaries they might through Famine faile of their desires and Aldringer with the rest of the Imperialists incamped about Monaco and beganne there to fortifie himselfe that hee might resist the Swedes and defend that Citie till he should receive such Forces as Walesteine had promised him if occasion should require But Waymer though being joyned with Horne he had neer about 15000 fighting men being informed of Holkes advancing towards Egra who sent by Walesteine to guard the Frontiers on that side had opportunely possessed himselfe of the most considerable seats of the upper Palatinat and knowing likewise that his Brother Duke William had not Forces sufficient to oppose the Imperialists designes he bridled his desire and sent some Regiments of Horse towards Aichstet to observe Holkes proceedings and he himselfe went to between Dunawert and Rain to secure those places Horne went towards Auspurg and the Ringrave returned towards Alsatia to begirt Brisach Whilst the sky of Germany was thus troubled foretelling much misery the clouds threatned no lesse foule weather towards Flanders for the Hollanders growing every day more powerfull had now a gallant Army in readinesse to make some attempt against the Austrians and it was generally resolved on by them to send an Army to take in Rimberg a Fort which stands on the Rhyn on this side of the Weâssell made much for their further inlarging themselves in the Angle which lyes between the Mase and the Rhyn towards the Electorat of Coln The Prince of Orange marched forth therfore with his Army and intrenching himselfe about the Towne did on the 15 th of May begin to raise his Batteries The Saxons knowing themselves to be too weake in Slesia to withstand the great preparations made by Walesteine to drive them out of that Province resolved to retreat towards the Oder that they might make advantage of those Banks and avoid the ingaging of themselves in a disadvantagious Battaile the which they cunningly foresaw and opportunely shunn'd as that in the losse whereof the greatest mischief did consist which could befall that State and that the Austrians might not finde wherewithall commodiously to maintain themselves in that Country they tooke away the Militia Artillery Ammunition and Victuals from the Cities Towns and Villages and brought them into their strong holds and what they could not readily convey away they fired to the end that the Enemy not finding wherewithall to maintaine themselves and Horses might change their mindes and retire from thence without the hazard of a Battaile Waymer and Horne finding by their Intelligence that Holke came upon their backes and fearing lest being shut up in Bavaria they might be inclosed by the Caesarians and Bavarians who were with considerable numbers equally advanced towards the River Par they passed to Dunawert and incamped themselves between Ratisbone and Amberg dividing their Forces into the Bishopricke of Aichstet which after some defence made by the Castle which for six dayes bravely maintained it selfe it fell into their hands being onely invironed with ancient Wals not able to withstand the Cannon Walesteine being come to Goltz and having easily taken it the Saxons having at his first appearance abandoned it and finding that his policy could not prevail but that all his propositions were refused by the State of Saxony which were aware of his ends and whither his ambition did secretly aspire he thought good to move a new treaty of agreement and to put far more moderate Conditions which hee would have Albert Duke of Sassen Laremburg to open and make knowne unto the Saxon Councell which subscribed to a Truce for other two moneths though nothing insued thereon by reason of the immoderatnesse of the Electors pretensions the chiefe scope whereof was that the Edict whereby all the Churches goods were to be restored to the Roman-Catholiques should be repealed This meane while the Imperialists who were commanded by Holke appeared between Ratisbone and Egra so as the Swedes finding what difficulties they should
experienced Commander and of an acute wit with absolute Command who though it were commonly bruted amongst Souldiers and other people desirous of novelty that he would fall into the Valteline to disturbe the passage of the Spaniards yet had he not order so to doe nor men sufficient for that purpose for these Companyes were so defective as they did not in all conteine 800 Foot though the King paid for above 2000. as likewise the French had not then any such resolution for that they would not be the first that should seem to breake the peace with the Spaniard the Duke of Orleans being in their power a weighty impediment as also not to hinder the severall Provinces of Italy from weakning themselves by sending out their Souldiers and to weaken the State of Milan of their Forces for afterwards upon the first occasion of breaking with the Spaniards they might have the better advantage by setting upon them at unawares and in a time when they should have sent out all their necessary defence barring up the Passages of the Valteline then for so it would be easier for them to undertake it then whilst those of Milan were full of people at every least noyse of the stirring of the French they as being neerer might have first prevented them before they should have been entred amongst the Switzers and would have made themselves masters therof which was indeed their desire and which would have been very prejudicious aswell to the French as to other Princes These were the reasons likewise why they deferred the performance of their promises to the Swedes and Grisons and made it be so noysed about to cloake their desire of not pulling upon them so heavy a warre though some who subscribed to the flattery of their owne desires spread abroad opinions that they would not shut up the Spaniards passage for that the Spaniards going to molest Germany not well tollerated by that Nation which not accustomed to the usuall hardnesse of lying in the field by falling short in their numbers and miscarrying weakned the Spaniards power or by preserving themselves to cause more feare in the Swedes and make them when they should be in great need of their assistance fly unto them for protection and make offer of those places unto them which could not but by necessity be taken that thus whether the Spaniard should be victorious or losers the sending of the Forces out of the State of Milan was very advantagious for the French In this uncertainty of times and present revolutions Heydelberg the Metropolis of the lower Palatinat which some moneths before was besieged by the Swedes was constantly kept by the Imperialists whereupon the old Ringrave who commanded the Forces that were before it finding that every longer delay withdrew much from his reputation and knowing how behovefull it was that that Towne should be taken before the Italian Forces should have past the Mountaines or that the levies in Lorayne were in a readinesse as on the contrary how advantagious it would be for the Austrians to have that place as a safe retreat for their Forces very fitting to lye before Wirtenberg and the Palatinate so as where he perceived force would not availe he applied cunning and resolved to make use of a stratagem he therefore held intelligence with some Inhabitants of the City who were no wayes inclined to the Caesarian party the businesse was luckily carryed by meanes of a Drummer who imployed about the ransome of prisoners past frequently between the Camp and the Towne he therefore made some of his Souldiers by night swim the River who being let in by the aforesaid intelligence possest themselves of that side of the Towne or Suburbs which was next the Champion or open Country and let in the Swedes whereupon the Castle wanting Victuall and supply ere long yeelded and 300 Dutchmen who had the Guard thereof marched out of it on the first of Iune and being desirous to keep the Field inroled themselves under the Swedish Colours But if the Swedes advanced in Alsatia the Imperialists were not idle in Slesia for falling upon one of the Saxons quarters they cut many in pieces tooke many prisoners and brought away good bootie At this time likewise fortie Carriages of Marchandize which went from Auspurg to Vim were taken in Swabenland by 400 Crabats The Duke of Bavaria seeing Waymer and Horne departed from his Territories bethought himselfe to drive the Enemy from Neuburg which lying upon the Danube betweene Dunawart and Ingolstat much affrighted the neighbouring parts by the taking whereof he should not onely bring his Forces to flank upon Dunawert but by his re-inforced Garrison therein would have kept the Swedes in continuall suspition and have made them forbeare their inrodes He therefore raysed his Army from before Monaco and together with Aldringer presented themselves before the Walls thereof from whence they were saluted with divers Cannon-shot for the Garrison being incouraged by Horne who at the newes hereof having quitted his quarters and passed over the Danube at Dunawert hasted for their succour they vigorously persisted to defend their imperfect Walls yet all this would not doe for the Towne being streightly beset by Aldringer who began to be ashamed that he had spent so much time in taking a Towne which was by every one given for lost it was forced to surrender before Horne could bring succour The Prince of Orange was not this meane while lesse diligent before Rimberg for streightning it continually more and more and not suffering it to be succoured by 7000 choice Spaniards who used their best skill to get into it the Towne not able longer to resist the Hollanders yeelded and tooke Lawes from the Enemy the taking hereof was a great detriment to the Spaniards in those Provinces and very available to the Hollanders since thereby they inlarged their bounds towards the Electorate of Coln and opened the way on that side along the Rhyn The Emperors Army and the like of the Duke of Saxons were yet in Slesia facing each other so as Walestein perceiving there was no way to drive Forreiners out of the Empire but by being reconciled to Saxony for he very well understood the Caesarian Forces could not be restor'd to their former splendor nor yet Germany freed from the incursioÌs of strangers without good correspondency had with that Prince who with a flourishing state and considerable Army flanked upon Bohemia a Kingdome that lay open on that side so as it behoved Imperialists either to guard it by a great power of men or leave it to the discretion of the Saxon Forces and that the Imperiall Forces being either the one or the other way divided could neither advance further in their conquests nor yet could perfectly defend themselves on all sides hee re-assumed with forged designes the Treatie of Peace by him so much desired and propounded a new suspension of Armes which was entertained by the Elector as making much for his advantage for
by the French he had refused and how he had hazarded his estate and ventured his owne life for the most glorious house of Austria These conceptions being with efficacy urged by those imployed by his Excellency of Bavaria met not with any thing that withstood their making an impression in the hearts of those to whom they were imparted and for that the Interest of Princes is as apt to take âire as Tinder shadowes serving them for substances many Counsellours began to be distasted with Walesteines actions who formerly had viewed and looked upon them through such spectacles as doe falsiây the object which now throwing aside they found what would be the sequell of his being thus proceeded withall for politicians looke still to be offended by him whom once they have offended and that they cannot preserve themselves from revenge but by reiterating their offence The Spaniards as those who are thought to be of a more refined judgement then others and who doe alwayes with wary advice bring about the ends tooke councell how to loosen the freedome of their Princes from bondage to tye his hands who plotted their prejudice and how to keep the Crowne of Bohemia upon their heads and seeing that the evill was sufficiently cankered and inveterate for that Walesteine had got to be so reputed of his Souldiers and had wone so much upon their affection and observancy as that they were not likely easily to forsake him whom they knew to be prodigall of his rewards to them and for that the greatest part of the Commanders had been by him preferred to their places of Command and were consequently his well wishers and would in all likelihood run the same fortune with him as likewise for that 't was generally thought that he had accumulated much riches all which presented themselves as objects of ruine to the eyes of those Counsellours they therefore saw it was expedient to bring violent remedies to this indisposition and began with all diligence to have an eye to his apparent infidelity But if the Condition of Germany were thus and these the proceedings of the Protestants and the Romanists each indeavouring to overthow the other and if nothing but Armes were talked of in every place and threatnings everywhere proclamed the like affairs began to bud up in Italy For Duke Crequi being then Embassadour extraordinary for the King of France at Rome where he had been ever since the preceding Iune staid there to draw the Pope to leane favourably to the King his Master and to make other agreements with the Princes of Italy And the Polach Embassadour extraordinary came likewise to Rome at this time sent thither by his King the pompe and magnificence of both which have been sufficiently set forth by able pens The Spaniards were much moved to see as they would publiquely say that pleasures and delights should make the consideration of what misery the world was in laid aside that many studyed nothing but pompe and vanity striving how they might exceed in apparrell dyet and other magnificencies and they as professing more zeale to Religion and as neerer neighbours to the Churches patrimony pretending to be of greater Authority with the Pope then any other potentates were not a little troubled and grieved that they should be so forward in spending their gold and bloud in ayd of Religion which was supprest whilst the Ecclesiastickes onely intending their owne quiet did not onely not trouble themselves with thinking how to assist the Emperour but were not any wayes carefull of those imminent evils which were threatned to Christendome by the proceedings of the Protestants they therefore resolved to try the Pope and to indeavour not onely to interest him on their behalfes in the present warre but likewise to make him give the King of France an admonishment for his assisting the Protestants against them They therefore chose the Bishop of Cordova and Signior Iohn de Chiamadser men of acute wisedome and profoundly politique who being come from Spaine to Rome and joyning with the Cardinals Spinola Cueva Borgia and the Marquesse of Chasteaw Roderigo the Spanish Embassadour in ordinary they joyntly agreed to be instant with his Holinesse that he would assist the Emperour with monies and to that purpose obteyned the tenth of all the Ecclesiasticke goods in Sicile Sardinia Portugall and other parts which was thought would amount to 500000 Crownes At this time dyed the Infanta Isabella Clara Eugenia at Brussels wherefore Flanders wanting a Prince of the Austrian blood to governe it the Infant who was yet at Milan was solicited to come thither This Princesse left this world in the 67th yeare of her Age and 33 of her Government she was a Lady of a Majesticall aspect affable and full of Curtesie her customes were religious even to admiration her actions devoute and her government most just Her losse was lamented by all Flanders but chiefly by the Inhabitants of Brussells for the Marquesse of Aytona having taken upon him the government and having by night stolne in many Spanish Souldiers ââto the Towne the Inhabitants tooke this his diffidence of them in such scorne as hatred supplying the place of loyalty the Flemish devotion to the Spaniards began to vanish apace and some novelty was likely to have happened had not their hopes of receiving the Infant into the Throne which they had so much reverenced moderated the violence of the popular desire and the passion which was conceived by the Nobility Aldringer this meane while leaving a Garrison in Miminghen and Kauffburen retired with the Duke of Feria towards Fussen upon the Confines of Swabenland towards Tiroll upon the Leech when Wert thinking to surprise Ollins his quarter a Swedish Colonell in a Village neer Straubing called Harthawsen went thither by night but finding the Swedes drawne forth of the Village into an advantagious place with their weapons in their hands he set fire on the Village and fearing to meet with a hard incounter for that the Allarme was already given round about he returned to his former station Whilst in Vienna and in other places the greatest policy that in wisedome could be found out was practised by faithfull Ministers of State for what concerned Walesteines actions Baudis who as hath been said was about Coln tooke in Bona and Ertfield Townes belonging to that Electorat and seated along the Rhyn begirt onely with single Wals and Ditches after the ancient manner which made them not fit to resist the Cannon and other moderne offensive inventions where afterwards by the interposition of the Holland Embassadour he treated with the Elector touching a Newtrality which tooke effect And Cronisfield being advertised that Waldeck a place from whence a ridge of Land takes it name which lyes between the Landsgrave of Hessens Country the Arch-Bishoprick of Paderborne and the Dukedome of Burgher in Westfalia along the Eder named the County of Waldeck was much opprest by the Swedes marched thitherwards for it was not fitting to permit the Protestants
and at last agreed that it was expedient to conferre that place upon Duke Bernard Waymer a German by birth and consequently desired by the chiefe Commanders and Souldiers of that Nation which is the sinewes and strength of the Swedish Armies a daring Prince and beloved by the Souldier and common people and one who would hardly submit to be commanded by a stranger Though the Deputies the Souldiers and other Princes of the Union were pleased with this Election yet was not the Duke of Saxon therewithall satisfied as well for that the King being dead he pretended to be chosen Generall and to have the whole weight of the Warre intrusted in him since there was no Prince amongst all the Confederates of greater strength then he nor who had more favoured the Swedes as also for that Waymers greatnesse who was a Prince full of spirit and descended from the right line of the first borne of Saxony which were expelled their state by the Emperour Charles the fifth made him not a little feare that if the Swedish affaires should prosper and he should winne upon the Souldiers affections he mought aspire to recover that which he knew had formerly belonged to his Ancestors These jealousies having gathered together a great masse of grosse humours in the Electors breast whom the Caesarian Ministers of state failed not to put in mind of what accidents might easily fall out inviting him to an accomodation by large proffers and efficatious perswasions he was seene to be much changed and beganne to nauseate Oxesternes and Waymers actions and to be more cautious in his confiding in them then he was wont and this was afterwards knowne to be the rise of Saxonies falling from the Swedes Horne who wisely fore-saw this storme rid post to Franckfort treated and consulted with Oxesterne how to find a remedy for so important a businesse but he was not much listened unto by those who governed by passion gave no eare to the reasons he alledged nor was there any one who thought how to appease the Electors displeasure for the Swedes were now growne to that hight of pride as that they cared not for any one thinking that every one should take it for a favour to be numbred among their friends the effects of prosperitie wherewithall men are blinded and as with Wine made drunke with confidence and presumption as likewise of the prosperitie of Northerne people who thinking abundantly well of themselves shew pride in their actions affording thereby occasions to us Italians to call them barbarous They pretended that the Elector was bound to second their resolves which made them afterwards very wel know that the government of States ought not be exercised with ambition nor passion but with wisedome free from any particular interest and from any affection which thwarts the publique good Whilst this Dyet was held Lieutenant Generall Milander came before Rurort which lyes upon the Rhyn below Coln fortified partly after the Ancient partly after the Moderne fashion he set upon it and at the end of seven dayes the Inhabitants not able longer to hold out surrendred it upon Articles And in Alsatia the Governour of Colmar clothed some of his Souldiers in Countreymens habits and feigning as if they carryed somewhat to sell sent them to Ruffac in Alsatia not farre from Colmar neere to the Mountaines which divide that Province from Lorayne These surprising the Gate let in the Swedes that lay not farre off hid in a Wood who when they were entred the Towne which they treated but ill knowing they could not keepe it for the Marquesse of Baden was marching apace towards them with many Souldiers drawne out of the Garrison of Brisach and other parts thereabouts they retired againe with good bootie to Colmar and tooke so many of the Magistrates prisoners as payd 12000 Crownes for their ransome Horne was returned from Frankfort to his Army and was already preparing to march into the upper Palatinate and joyn with Waymer when Aldringer understanding thereof who was upon those Frontiers with a Body of men consisting of 8000 Foot and 4000 Horse watching the Swedes proceedings presently quit his quarters and went towards Tachaw a little Towne of Bohemia upon the Confines of the Palatinate into which the Horse of both Parties being entred divers skirmishes were made wherein the Swedes had the worst for the Crabats treated them but ill The Duke of Bavaria and the Duke of Feria met about this time at Beuberg upon the Iser neere Monaco where they consulted how they might easiliest regaine Ratisbon a place very requisite for the Bavarians interest but finding it to be a businesse of difficultie for that the Enemy was very strong in the Field the Army of the League and the Spanish Army much weakned by the death and running away of many of their Souldiers and that they could not promise themselves assistance from Walesteine but rather feared that he might disturbe them in that enterprise they resolved at last to forbeare the businesse for a while and not to hazard the honour of their Armies before a Towne the taking whereof was uncertaine and the losse certain which they were to receive from those that defended it and in the retreat it behoved them to make which is held for an excellent rule by the wisest Commanders For to retreat without doing any good from an enterprise once undertaken embases the Souldier redounds to the discredit of the Officers addes to the vigour and reputation of the Enemy and makes the Leaders on be accounted ill-advised a word very hurtfull to the Conductors of Souldiers They therefore quartered their men part in Bavaria part in Swabenland and part in Tiroll preparing for new Levyes and recruiting their Armies that at the Spring their numbers might be full and they ready to perfect that and other enterprises notwithstanding the Swedes wisely foreseeing that it would be hard for them to keep Ratisbon which was invironed by the Territories of Bavaria unlesse they had the upper Palatinate free they commanded Berâhenfield who was quartered with 4000 Foot and 2000 Horse in the parts about Ausburg to passe over the Danube and to goe into the Palatinate and to joyne himselfe with Waymer and unanimously to fall upon such undertakings as they should thinke fittest to maintaine their Armies in those Provinces Yet did not their resolutions take effect for the Imperialists having had time to prepare themselves for defence the Swedes failed in their indeavours in taking of Amberg the Metropolitan of the upper Palatinate seated in a Champaine Countrey beautified with pleasant and fruitfull Hills and were inforced to withdraw themselves to their former stations of Chamb and Weâden Horne finding then how hard a matter it would be to get the Palatinat by reason of the strength wherewith it was guarded he thought it would be better to passe back againe into the upper Swabenland wherein the Imperialists garrisons were very weake and since he could not prosper in one place to
the season the difference of climats the inhumanitie of the Countrey people and the unexperience of fresh Souldiers then by the Sword of the Enemie The Duke of Bavaria Duke of Feria Aldringer and many other principall men did in their frequent counsels examine the present condition and did in their wisedomes weigh what was fittest and most needfull for the publique good and their owne particular honours The Count D'Ognata a deeply intelligent Minister of state being at Vienna failed not in observing what prejudice might be caused by Walesteines infidelity in taking order how it might be obviated and in soliciting Caesar to take some expedient meanes for the preservation of his owne authority In Lombardy the Infanta was diligent in taking men into pay and in indeavouring Monies and Foot from Spaine whereby to re-inforce the Army and thereby to maintaine the power of Spaine in Germany assistance for the present occasions was indeavoured at Naples the Magazine whereby the Spanish greatnesse is re-inforced by imposing new grievances upon the Subject new impositions upon Salt and upon the incomes of Fines or Amerciaments Customes and the Kingdomes Revennues and to boot with the continuall issues of Souldiers which went from that Kingdom 6000 Foot were entertained by Prince San Severo and other Brigadoes under Don Carlo de Gatta Lucius Boccapivola Iohn Baptista Orsino Caesar Caracciolo and divers others and the Drums beat through all the other Dominions of the King of Spaine and assessements were made for the supply of Men and Monies for the German warre upon the which the Spaniards were as intent as if it had been their own businesse At Rome the Spanish Embassadours prest much upon the Pope to assist the Romanists in Germany and did much exasperate the sinister behaviour of the French Creqiri aboad in the Court to moderate the Spanish conceptions and to interest the Pope in behalfe of his King the Pope by some supply of Monies did wisely satisfie the Spaniards entertained the French in civill manner and consolated Christendome with plenary indulgencies and in fine the eyes of all Europe were fixt upon what would be the event of the Spanish preparations when Feria after having been some few dayes sicke of a Feaver died and for that after he had been in a faire way of recovery he fell into a relapse some suspected his death might be occasioned by poyson and that it was done by Walesteines privacy for he greatly hated and envied the Spaniards who being faithfull to their Prince could not permit that people should live in feare of him who ought to dread his Master nor that the Imperiall Ministers of state should be so foolish as to admit of defence or listen to the justification of one guilty of high Treason Yet was there no appearance of ground for this conceipt The Duke of Feria's death as it was gladsome to Walesteine and some other Dutch Ministers of state who were not pleased that the Spanish authority should get further possession in Germany so was it very much lamented by the Emperour the King of Spaine all the Austrians Spaniards and Italians the Crowne of Spaine having lost in him one of the worthiest servants it for the present had or had had in many yeares before He was none of the famous cryed-up Commanders for being alwayes imployed in state affaires hee was not accustomed to Armes and he was arrived at the hight of perfection in state government as that Spaine did bost it selfe and Italy glorified never to have been in a more flourishing condition then under the fortunate guidance of this Prince He was excellent in all generall knowledge and upon all occasions shewed himselfe worthy of the place he bore his opinions free from flattery and now acknowledged to be void of weaknesse proved that true borne Spaniards are not such as through envy they are divulged to be By the preferring the good of his King before his owne good he taught us that how much the richer a servant is in deserts the nakeder hee is in his owne privat designes his diligence in resolutions his sincerity in opinion his order and judgement in treating made it appeare that though Spaine be not barren in producing men of this science yet had shee few that did surpasse him in having served his King with a more vigorous spirit with more ready parts or with a better appointed judgement he governed Milan many yeares was beloved by the people well esteemed by the Souldiers admired and feared by Forrayners he though streightned in time did dexterously raise an Army did wisely guide it did with much successe succour Alsatia and did with so miraculous constancy indure the injuries of the weather and the sterillity the Countries as his good government and the good orders he took were acceptable to the Souldiers supportable to the Subject and commended by the Enemy Those who possest with an evill opinion of the Spaniards were afraid at his first comming and who more offended by words then deeds eschewed him did by experience prove that his picture was not drawne according to the life that the civillity of Spaniards was tolerable and the behaviour of their Commanders worthy to be reverenced the very Swedes themselves commending his actions said they admired the Spaniards good demeanour the affability of that Nation the modesty of his proceedings and by seeing that these men though so powerfull dealt not like others who as soone as they have got footing in another mans possession make it lawfull to satisfie their desires they knew that the detractions which they suffered under were onely the effects of feare and weapons used by the weakest not merited by their actions and they did further adde that if all Spaniards were so behaved they should rather conforme and joyne themselves with them then with any other Nation To say truth he was a Gentleman of great dexterity full of affability over-flowing in curtesie and most universall in all those indowments which are required in a generous prudent gentile and most-esteemed-of great state Officer to a great King hee left his Wife much afflicted having two Sonnes and one daughter Walesteines actions were now the generall discourse throughout all Vienna yet did the Court for many dayes wisely dissemble their opinion of him dexterously concealing the plot laid against him that they might goe upon sure grounds for such Officers as are grown to too great an authority and have the meanes to be dangerously harmfull to their Masters ought to be seized on with dexterity and to have their wings clipt before they can bethinke themselves or let loose the reines to their infidelitie Walesteine being by his Friends advertised of all that past and fearing lest his designes might perish amidst these stormes he sent for the Colonells Tersica his Cousin and Chinschi his Kinsman and Illo his favourite into his private Closet where he was much agitated with intestine passion which on the one side layd before him his reputation and the infamous
partake of the fruits of his Victories and Authority They were further to adde that by the deposing of this General his promises would faile of being effected and they were to faile in their pretended satisfactions for whosoever else should Command would indeavour to reward those whom he already found inroled in his owne affection not those whom he should know depended upon his rivall and that it being usuall in these times to hate such as are friends to our Enemies preferring privat passion before publique good they should be necessitated to much obsequious sufferance to preserve themselves in his favour that therefore it behoved them all to intercede by their humble supplications to Walestein his Highnesse that he would not forgoe this Army which so much needed his assistance and wherein his owne interest so much consisted and that they should doe well to informe the Emperour how prejudiciall the losse of this Commander would be By this Tiberian cunning of Walesteine the chiefest of the Army were much moved for it is naturall to humane affection greedily to solicit such things as they desire when those things seem to shun them The other Colonels perswaded by these leading men whose speeches seemed as so many oracles such reverence did they beare unto them by reason of their intimacy with the Generall agreed all in a resolution joyntly to present themselves before Walesteine and to intreat him not to hurle that Army into a precipice of miseries which he had raised above the mountaines of Victory and Glory that they would not yeeld to obey any other Generall that great was the necessity the tempest violent the Imperiall dignity likely to be overthrown should it be deprived of his Worth that therefore they were resolved to follow him and never forgoe his Command Walesteine seeing the hearts of his Commanders so well disposed to his service wrought it so as that Illo should secretly and as it were of himselfe propound unto the rest of the Colonels that if they desired his Highnesse should continue his charge they were to secure him of their faith let whatsoever mischiefe happen through the malignity of the times and of his enviers with giving him somewhat under their hands to this purpose The Colonels who as hath been formerly said were very well affected to him for his liberality used towards them aswell in honours as in favours the greatest tye wherby the Souldiers love can be bound and who therefore reverenced him he having particularly obliged many of them by conferring places upon them which he would not perhaps have given to others following herein the Ottoman policy who value none nor take any into their Musters save such as are valiant and couragious resolved to underwrite and subscribe unto a writing drawne up to this purpose Wee Colonels and Chieftaines of the Warre whose names are under written understanding that the Duke of Mechelberg was resolved to quit his Command of Generalissimo to his Caesarian Majesty since that he is falsly calumniated in the Court at Vienna though we have ever knowne his actions to be most loyall and taking into mature consideration that if this should happen much mischief would insue hereupon wee therefore moved out of the fidelitie wee owe to his Caesarian Majestie to the Roman Religion and to the whole Empire having willingly and out of our owne accord humbly besought our said Generall not to abandon us in this so important conjuncture and great emergency wherein his assistance is so requisite doe all of us promise and oblige our selves upon the faith of Gentlemen of honour to stick still close unto him nor ever to part from him or relinquish him for any cause or accident whatsoever after the best manner and with the greatest faithfulnesse we are able This writing subscribed by 42 Colonells did much inhearten Walesteine and afflict the Austrian Ministers of State who no wayes affrighted with the eminency of this danger but rather assuring themselves by these proceedings of what before they did suspect betooke themselves to their deepest wisedome and acutest wit Whereupon it was given out that the wisest of the Austrian Officers meeting on the 12th of Ianuary in Count d'Ognates house the Spanish Embassadour the fittest meanes were considered of how to save the Imperiall authoritie from receiving a blow by the treachery of this man Some were of opinion That they ought to temporize and beare with his actions and afterwards upon fitting occasions withdraw the Souldiers from him under the command of Italian Colonels and not Bohemians or Dutch that so being deprived of his so much feared retinue he might be brought to give an account of his actions Many knowing that in State-affaires Princes ought not to deferre their resolutions but rather to consider every shadow of danger as a reall harm were of opinion and this was the embraced advice That Picolomini and Gallasse men of unsuspected fidelitie should be suddenly sent unto him to arrest his person But some difficultie appearing likewise in this resolution the good successe whereof was not certaine for that Walesteine was begirt with many Troopes of his Kinsmen and such as sided with him so as though the rest of his Army should have obeyed the Emperours letters Parents conferred upon Gallasse which notwithstanding would be hardly effected the Bohemian Captains and the greater part of the Dutch Commanders whose affections were great unto their Generall would not withdraw themselves from his obedience whereby hee might betake himselfe with his most intimate friends to some strong holds from whence hee could not be gotten out without surprizall or siege things of time and full of lets the Enemy being neer at hand by whom he might be succourd and so the undertaking prove rather prejudiciall then profitable therefore craft and deceipt was thought to be the best resolution and that to compasse their ends they were to corrupt some of his Commanders the true way to work mischiefe to ones Enemy for there is no so secure Treason as that which is wrought by ones deerest friends or most esteemed Servants nor was there any better meanes found to secure themselves from this flame then to take away the fuell that fed it They therefore secretly wrought an understanding with some Irish Officers of Tersica's Regiment with whom certaine Spaniards were very inward that by all meanes they might be sure to secure Walesteines person by which action to boot with the purchase of immortall glory they were promised large recompence and extraordinary honour nor should they by such an act any whit staine their reputation or their bounden duty since that fighting under the Empire of Ferdinand the second they were first bound to him before unto their Generall nay it would bee a great evidence of their loyalty to fence their Prince from Felony These words prevailed much with Lesley Captaine of Tersica's Regiment who betaking himselfe unto the businesse communicated the whole affaire to Captaine Butler and then to Cordon Lieutenant-Colonell and
Governour of Egra all three of them very much confiding one in another These being desirous to be knowne the Instruments of so great safety and the Preservers of the Emperors Authority went consideratly seeking out how they might compasse their ends but it being an uncertaine and dangerous thing to make him prisoner for though the chiefe Commanders faithfully serving Caesar should obey his supremest Commands yet the Captaines Authority availing but a little when not seconded by obedience of the Souldiers they plainly saw that these being well affected to their Generall would rather be ready to free him then to obey the command of their Officers To prevent this therefore they resolved to kill him for since a dead man wages War no more and that there are but few that prove themselves lovers of Carkasses this was the true meanes to bring so wisht for an indeavour to good end Caesar notwithstanding as it is said was not pleased with this way of proceeding for being a Religious Prince and one that feared God hee thought that before the cause were knowne it became not the Tribunall of his justice to give way to homicide as also his Majesty having borne particular affection to Walesteine knowing him to be a very usefull Servant he could not no not for such a suspition totally blot him out of his good opinion But for that Princes affections though never so great are overborn by reason of State and his Divines telling him that God was not offended at the actions of great men when they are done for the publick safety that many things were permitted to Princes for the preservation of their dominions which were prohibited to privat men and that of two evils the least was to be chosen he suffered himselfe to be perswaded to underwrite the Order but yet with limitation though his Ministers of state knowing the necessity of the resolution 't was said that they made the heads of the conspiracy understand ex parte that they should use the best meanes they could to effect what was agreed upon for the publique good Whilst the Austrians at Vienna spread their nets and did all that lay in them to effect their mentioned deliberations and whilst Walesteine on the other side endeavoured by the hooke of promises to win upon the affections of the heads of his Army Horne having taken Biberack and being advertised that some Imperialists were quarterd at Mitelbiberack a Town not far from thence he secretly came before it surprised it put most of them to the Sword and the next morning with Petards and scaling-Ladders entred Valsdee a Towne of Swabenland seated in a Champion between certaine Woods almost in the center of that Province invironed with Wals and Towers and some Palisadoes and Rampiers about the Gate after the ancient manner the which he sackt and evilly entreated from thence advancing forward hee tooke Ravenspurg and some other Townes weakely defended The Country-people of upper Austria at this time tooke up Armes and some Townes rose and did much disturbe the Passage upon the Danube for over-running the Country from Lintz to Passaw they robb'd the Barkes that past thereupon and did other mischiefe to those Frontiers whereupon some Regiments being sent towards them many of them were taken and cut in pieces and divers of the chiefe of the sedition were hanged Walesteine was full of sad thoughts which suggested his fall unto him and the danger of his actions whereupon not finding any better meanes to escape so important an emergency then a bold and dauntlesse resolution he resolved since that the justifications made in his behalfe at the Court by his Cosen Maximilian Walesteine were ill interpreted to doe that very thing which was most feared and therefore after his retreat from Saxony into Bohemia 't was noised that hee sent Baron Schaffemburg Lieutenant-Generall of the Horse under pretence of quartering some Regiments in Austria but that afterwards being suffered to come into Vienna hee should indeavour some mischiefe against the Emperour and his Counsellours But it being usuall with those that distrust not to suffer any thing to passe unweighed in the ballance of feare and suspition as he desired to lodge some of his Troopes about Vienna some of the Austrian Ministers of state objecting that he was one of Walesteines confederates and believed to be one that sided with him he was arrested in his own house and a good guard put upon him and the Emperours Councell soreseeing that in jealousie of State-affaires all delayes are harmefull that they might not let the malady grow worse and having already agreed upon the businesse with the afore-named Officers of the Garrison of Egra whether they fore-saw Walesteine was to come as the fittest place for succour of the Swedes and Saxons they resolved to write to Gallasse that he should take upon him the government of the Army prosecute Walesteine and proclame him and all that adhered unto him Rebells and that he should promise and ascertaine pardon unto every one who though formerly copartner in his Felony should abandon his obedience to him And thus Letters Patents and Orders were sent abroad into all quarters signifying this mans Rebellion and inhibiting every one to follow or obey him Yet did this resolution meet with a thousand doubts 't was feared lest mischief might ensue hereupon for if Walestein should joyn with the Saxon Forces he should have little lesse then totally have dis-membred the Emperours Army the greatest part whereof consisted of Dutch and Bohemian Commanders and all the Souldiery depending upon him as one who largely rewarded them and conferred places upon them whereby he might believe to rely upon their obedience The newes which he had caused to be spred abroad that he would make himselfe be crowned King of Bohemia would be acceptable to all the Princes and free Cities of the Empire for since it is no good policy to love to confine upon a great and powerfull Prince whose Forces may continually be feared 't was the true way to rest secure from the Austrian jealousie if that Kingdome should fall upon a third person and the Imperiall Crown be thereof deprived which every one dreaded by reason of its great Potency and consequently nothing else could be argued but that he should be assisted and succoured not onely by the Swedes and Elector of Saxony but by all the other Princes and Cities who were jealous of the Austrian Monarchy In this revolution of affaires Walesteine not thinking himselfe safe in Pilsen for that he was farre from the Protestant Forces and yet not willing to goe from thence he sent a messenger of purpose to acquaint Waymer who was quartered about Camb in the Palatinate to invite him to come speedily to Pilsen for he would deliver the Citie into his hands and desire his assistance till such time as he might recover a place of safetie to thinke upon his affaires Duke Waymer surprized with this unexpected newes much marvelled at so sudden a resolution as
first meet withall Before he came to the Bridge of Lenis he met with a Souldier of Milan who comming from Germany into his owne Countrey and speaking with him concerning the Souldiers craft he resolved to take it upon him he therefore received pay of the Emperour and at first trayled a Pike shortly after he got a Halbert and won the love of his Captaine and all his fellow Souldiers for being good at his Pen the casting up of the accompts of that Company and the answering of such Letters as were sent to his Captaine were recommended to his charge and behaving himselfe still worthily in this place and his Captaine through the assistance he received from Aldringers wisedome being made Serjeant Major and his Lieutenant Captaine in his place Aldringer was made Lieutenant with the applause of all the Officers and Souldiers in which place he continued to give signes of his more then common understanding He had the keeping of a place in the upper Palatinate not farre from Egra committed to his charge by which the Protestant Army was to passe which with bare 50 men by the meanes of barricadoed Trenches and Pallizadoes of great interlaced Trees he so gallantly maintained against the Enemies whole Army without any other succour as that to the fame of his wisedome he purchased the addition of being held greatly valiant Thus in a short space of time he was much desired by many Colonells and had offers made him of divers Companies Being at the instance of his maintainer perswaded to comply with the Arch-Bishop of Salsbergs Nephew a young man who needed such an instructer he by his Souldiery and by his Learning did so much insinuate himselfe into the good will of that Colonell and his associates as that Aldringer making him seeme gray-headed for wisedome who was but greene in yeares he thought he could recompence him with no meaner a reward then in default of his Serjeant Major to conferre that place upon him Being raysed to a place of this imployment and thereby having occasion to be knowne to the Generalls and to negotiate sometimes with one sometimes with another of them he so won upon the good likings of every one as that he got the repute of being a better Souldier then any one that did officiate that charge and being favoured by Fortune and confirmed in every ones good liking he was raysed to the degree of a Lieutenant Colonell and from thence to be a Colonel still refining his judgement by the experience and mannaging of Martiall affaires till he was found worthy to succeed to the command of the Emperours Forces before Mantua where commanding over the body of an Army he executed the authoritie of a Generall though not under that Title Aldringer was of a lively spirit of mature wisedome of a refined understanding and of a valour levelled to enterprises His Councells were accompanied with the freedome of Voyce with past examples and fore-sight of the future in so much as in all Consultations held they were preferred before the advice of any others The informations of his Pen proportionably displayed opened the gates to capacitie inlightned the understanding to make resolves and were most gratifying to the curiositie of his Master and Masters Officers the divers Countries he had beene verst in the divers maximes he had observed the inclinations of many people traced out by him made him so wary in all his actions as no Italianised Spaniard could out doe him He was in âine growne to so great a hight of perfection in what belonged to a valiant wise and experienced Commander as there was nothing more to be desired in him had he not beene so much swaide by avarice and severitie He was so great a husband as that he was as much intent to the service of his Prince as to his owne particular interest uncompassionate towards the Subject being excessive in laying on Contributions very straight-handed in letting the Souldier partake thereof or in bearing with them so as he was not much beloved by them his austeritie in this kind particularly at Mantua where 't is reported he got such spoyle and bootie as that none of Caesars Commanders ever parted from thence with greater riches made him hatefull to the people not beloved by the Souldier and contumacious towards God Almightie And this did presage that the promoters of that Warre would make good the proverb That riches ill got are not usually long enjoyed Whilst the Imperialists were busie in besieging of Ratisbon and that with equall constancy and reciprocall offence and fighting the one indeavoured the taking the other the defending of that place the Saxons taking their advantage at the absence of those Forces out of Slesia by which they were formerly held in great feare lest they might all have joyntly bent their course upon their state and Misnia as had beene oft-times discoursed of in the Imperiall Councell made divers advancements in those parts for to boot with having given the Imperialists a great blow neere Lignitz as hath beene said they likewise tooke Crossen and Glogaw the Garrisons whereof were not in condition to defend themselves without present succour nor to maintaine those holds streightned on all sides by the frequent quartering of the Enemy The passage of Iser being opeâed unto the Swedes by the taking of Landshut they accosted Alcka watered by the Par a place of no great consideration begirt onely with bare Walls without Rampiers or defence some Bavarians betaking themselves to defend it thought the Swedes could not keepe long before it the maine body of the Romanists not being farre from thence but not able to resist a faire assault which the Enemy desirous of bootie made the Towne was taken and sackt After which Horne keeping still in Bavaria pursued in making inrodes and taking of such places as could make no resistance and though he was informed by reiterated Letters from Waymer how great the necessitie was that he should come towards Dunawert joyn with him that so both of them might indeavour to succour Ratisbon yet would he not budge a foot but seemed as if he slighted his counsell for Horne being of a contrary opinion and not minding to hazard his men in a battell against the fresh and numerous Army conceived that Waymer was rather to come and joyne with him that they might with a brave and compleat Army proceed on to prejudice Bavaria by which diversion he pretended either to get more then the Imperialists should doe by the getting of Ratisbon or else to necessitate them to come and defend their owne and consequently to abandon the Towne or at least to weaken the Siege thereof the which he conceived feacible since it was likely the Duke of Bavaria for the getting of Ratisbon would not suffer his own state to be lost and his Subjects to be undone and the Towne was so well victualled as if it were not the streightlier besieged it might hold out for six moneths But Waymer who was
demeanure who formerly exasperated by the severe usage of former Ministers of State would never be brought to comply with them divers Imperiall Cities and in particular Nurenberg which was then brought to a bad condition their Traffique being hindred wherewithall the greatest part of the Inhabitans did maintaine themselves and a great scarcity of Victualls being amongst them by the devastation of the Countrey and adjacent parts made by the Armies insomuch as that they payd halfe a Florin for a loafe of bread and a Dollar for a pottle of Wine the Citizens thereof began to move a Treatie of agreement with Caesar making use of this pretence to honest and cloake their faultinesse that they had joyned with the Swedish partie to no other end but for the maintenance of their libertie of Conscience Priviledges and Franchises which they had so many yeares enjoyed and that when they should be listened unto in these their pretensions by the Emperour they would balke all other occasions of violating their Oath and doe homage to him and that they had had sufficient experience that to deliver ones selfe up into the protection of another Prince was a totall for-going of their obedience to their chiefe Soveraign and a prejudicial subjection of themselves to a worser as their state had too well made proof of whilst by having recourse unto the King of Swethland a Prince in appearance very affectionate to his Friends they had purchased the destruction of their Territories the consumption of their Arsenalls and the ruine of all their affaires with an undoubted certaintie that when the King should have brought all Germany under him they should be otherwise treated then by the Imperialists For that Princes who are ambitious of greatnesse retaine nothing in memory save onely what in the present may make for their advantage By reason of the resolution taken at the Dyet at Franckfort by the Protestant partie of making Duke Waymer Generall of the Forces of the union 't was said that the Duke of Saxony grew likewise jealous and that moreover he was not well satisfied with Oxesternes government who he thought did not proceed with him in so sincere a manner as he ought and that the Contributions which were had from the Associate Provinces were not divided amongst the Souldiers as they ought to be but converted to the private use of the Swedish Commanders who were suspected to send into Swethland to their owne homes what they got in Germany whereat the Dutch were not a little troubled whilst they saw another remote Countrey clothed with their spoyles These allegations were likewise occasioned by particular envy which usually reigning amongst States-men and Chiefetaines who are ambitious to be thought the only Christalls wherein the actions of other men ought to be seene had at this time given some signes of the Dukes no great good affected intelligency with the Swedes Whereupon the Austrians making use hereof indeavoured againe by new propositions and proffers to draw this Prince to conclude a Peace upon whose example did depend the other Confederate States and Cities of Germany and to this purpose Deputies were sent from both sides to Pern a Citie on the side of Elb above Dresden where though the Imperialists used all the skill they could to overcome whatsoever oppositions yet was it not possible to allay the Electors distrust and diffidence nor to satisfie his pretensions so as this indeavour proving likewise vaine they continued in their hostility Horne was this meane while come with his Army to Myndelheim to watch over the Spaniards proceedings who gave out that they would goe into the upper Swabenland and into Alsatia When Waymer being advertised that the Imperialists after the taking of Dunawert marched towards Norlinghen one of the chiefe Cities in Swabenland situated in a large plaine begirt with Rampired Walls and strong Towers hastened his march to come and joyne with Horne the which he did at Gutemsberg a place neere the Danube betweene Lavingen and Vlm at the same time when the Caesarians appeared first before Norlinghen Where the Swedes suddenly resolved to passe over the Danube at Lipheim a Towne not farre from Gutemsberg and to incampe themselves in the mouth of the Valley of Rems which is a plaine of about two miles in breadth betweene the Mountaines beginning at the end of the Norlinghen Champian and extends it selfe into the Dukedome of Wirtenberg towards Baling that they might the better secure the Dukedome of Wirtenberg the maintaining whereof was of great advantage to them for all other adjacent parts being ransacked they could onely from hence have Victualls and Forrage for their Armies And because they thought this the most convenient seat not onely to succour Norlinghen but other places of consideration in Swabenland and Franconia they tooke their way through the Territories of Haidnhaim which is a Countrey along the River Brents which is a Countrey upon the Confines of Swabenland towards Wirtenberg and went to Aulen a Towne not farre from thence where though they received advertisement the Count Strozz and Iohn De Wert were gone with a good strength of Horse from the Imperiall Campe to set upon Valerspach and other places of Franconia they would notwithstanding lose no time but went the next day towards Bapsinghen upon the Confines of Swabenland towards Wirtenberg that they might there take their readiest advantage and bring reliefe into the Citie in which march they met with some Imperiall Troopes wherewith they skirmished cut many of them in pieces and tooke some prisoners The Swedes being come to Bapsinghen they the next morning possest themselves of the neighbouring Hill where long consultation was had touching what they were for the present to do Waymer was of opinion that they were to set upon the Caesarian Campe and provoke them to battell but Horne and many other chiefe Officers were of another mind and advised contrary to what Waymer had propounded who notwithstanding persisting in his opinion and being seconded therein by Offcherchin Lieutenant Generall of the Horse 't was resolved that the next morning Waymers Horse which made the right wing of the battell should advance to a straight and incommodious passage in face of the Enemies Campe who were already possest of all the most advantagious neighbouring Avenues to discover whether or no they might passe that way without danger the which being effected they presently found the difficultie greater then they had imagined by reason of Iohn De Werts return who was sent for back from the enterprize of Valerspach by which meanes the Imperialists did much exceed them in numbers wherfore they agreed not to try a battell at that time but onely to send some recruits into the Citie to incourage the Governour and Inhabitants thereof and to exhort them to expect the arrivall of the Ringrave and Cratzs upon whose comming they should be sure to be succoured 200 Musquetiers were therefore conveyed into the Towne by Hornes Horse who went himselfe to the very
at their pleasure and the Caesarians being at liberty to over-run the state of Wirtenberg and the Territories of Vlm they would not onely have thence all things requisite for their Army but they would necessitate them to forgoe that place for feare of being beaten thence and consequently the City not receiving necessary succour would surrender it self in sight of their Army Others advised that they should withdraw their Army for their better security sake a little further from the Caesarians till the arrivall of their expected succour but neither was this thought fitting for their retreat would have invited the Enemy to follow them and to plunder the state of Wirtenberg and the recruits expected from Franconia could not without great difficulty and evident danger come to the Swedish Army So at last their joint opinions was to succour Nordlinghen but in such sort as the Army should not want victuals from the Dukedome of Wirtenberg nor that that state should be left to the discretion of the Imperialists and though this resolution was likewise upon well-grounded reasons withstood by Cratz who was then newly come as one who was better acquainted with the Country and the Enemies Forces amongst whom he had long commanded publickly protesting that so rash an attempt ought not to be made against a fresh victorious Army and so recruited without a further addition of Forces which was to be expected by the Ringraves arrivall who was by this time nigh at hand and by some other Troopes likewise not farre off and Horne was likewise of this opinion adding that an Army consisting of great numbers and those new Souldiers ought rather to be fought withall by keeping them busied and molested then by the Sword for not being able to keep themselves long in an impoverished Country they must of necessity either perish or begone just as befell the Duke of Feria the yeare before yet for that both Cratz and Horne were willing to please Waymer and Offcherchen who as none of the wisest would in jeasting manner say that these their Counsells and Advises partooke of feare they were so much incenst at these speeches which reflected so much upon them as they concluded to put in execution and to be themselves the first that should prosecute this resolution They therefore raised their Camp the first day of September which consisted of 12000 Foot and 8000 Horse and 28 piece of Cannon There was a Hill neer the City called Arensperg upon the which if they should have incamped themselves the besieged would have thereby beene much comforted and the Caesarians so much incommodated as they would for certaine have beene inforced in a short time to raise their Siege The Swedes therefore marched towards that Hill to effect what they had agreed upon the Imperialists heard of this their motion but not being able to imagine what their designe might be not dreaming that ever they would make so hard an attempt they moved not from their quarters till they saw them neer their Corps de guarde which they had re-inforced with some Regiments of Horse finding afterwards some bands of Swedish Muskettiers belonging to Waymer which were the Vanguard and drew after them some pieces of Cannon made towards them not willing to contest the Field with them they gave them way and retired themselves to the aforesaid Hill Arensperg the place which the Swedes had designed to incamp themselves in Duke Waymer with a great Body of Horse set upon the said Corps de guarde and though they were with equall valour withstood by them and Sadlers and Cratz his Regiments beaten backe at last being overborne by the Swedish Horse which furiously and in a joynt body Charged them they and such other Troopes as were sent in to their succour were inforced to give backe with the losse of many of the Austrians and in particular Prior Aldobrandini perish't there a valiant Gentleman and deservedly beloved of all The like befell another passage guarded by 400 Spaniards which was by force of Armes taken by Colonell Vistem after a stout defence made by the Enemy and for that that station was of so great moment onely for as long as the wood continued neer unto which it was and the end whereof extended to where the Imperialists were incamped in Battaile-array they were so farre advanced and their Muskettiers so ingaged as that they were necessitated to indeavour likewise the gaining of the plaine But Waymer being confronted by a gallant Body of Caesarians and he not having men enough to set upon them Horne who though he still were of the same minde which was to keep upon Arensperg and make himsele master thereof on that side which extends it selfe to the left hand that he might there expect the Ringrave who was within two little dayes march and had with him about 8000 of the bravest and best experienced Souldiers of all the Army since he saw that to proceed like a wiseman was esteemed a token of Cowardise by those who by reason of their former good successes despised the Enemy and would come to a Battaile to shew that he likewise wanted not courage and that hee knew not what feare meant hee furiously fell upon those trenches which were made by the Spaniards and giving upon two Battaglions of Foot though they had much adoe to get unto a halfe moone which stood upon the very beginning of the height yet Charging them through after a bloody fight wherin the Count de Solmes and Colonell Verms were slaine who had the charge to defend it with their Regiments they entred thereinto where instead of haulting and making good the station as Horne commanded them they advanced to set upon the Squadrons of the Spanish Army which was placed in Battaile-array where being Charged by the Austrian Horse and the rest of the Swedes not being able to succour them for that the Trenches were not to be pasâ by horse and much pester'd with smoake occasioned through the firing of the Imperialists Ammunition they fled away in great confusion so as the Spaniards might easily advance and regaine that important station which proved afterwards the ruine of the Swedes This rout given to the Protestants would not have proved so prejudiciall if the Horse which was appointed to backe them had advanced in due time opened the fences as Horne had commanded them They say this omission was occasioned by the incumbrance of some Carriages over-turned in the Woods which contrary to the orders they had received advancing before the said Horse was a cause of detaining them for a while and this was the reason why that advantage was lost which afterwards 't was impossible to recover for whilst the Swedish Foot advanced forwards into the Trenches not being backt by their Horse the greatest part of them were cut in pieces by the Austrian Horse The fight was valiantly performed for some while not onely here but likewise on the left wing with the Caesarian Horse whose Charges the Swedes valiantly
Lorayne towards Alsatia and Burgundy was also taken and that whole Province being reduced that great head-piece began to thinke of new Achievements in Alsatia when things should succeed more opportunely and to prepare the fittest meanes to march with their Forces into Italy if the peace should at any time be broken The French therefore gathering together all their Forces which were dispersed about Lorayne marched with them towards the Frontiers of Alsatia not without some jealousie in the Austrians who fear'd lest they might joyne with the Swedes of whom likewise there wanted not some apprehensions for the French seeing them held in play by the Caesarian Forces thought to get into Filisburg by force if they could not prevaile by faire meanes Their end notwithstanding as was conceived by Polititians was neither to declare Warre at this time against the Austrians neither yet to distaste the Swedes but as Arbitrators of the businesse in Germany the proceedings both of the Swedes and Austrians depending upon the ballance of their Forces to keepe themselves attentive spectators upon the fall of the one or other of them carrying the matter so as whether the Swedes should winne or lose they without entring into Warre might reape advantage thereby For the Kingdome of France being then all of a piece and therefore become the most formidable power of all Christendom if the Austrians should prevaile they would be able to uphold the Swedish partie and such strong holds as by such an accident should be put into their hands by the Swedes they might easily keep them and if the Swedes should be victorious the apprehended Austrian greatnesse growing weaker they saw they were sufficient to enlarge their owne Empire and to keepe the Swedes within the limited bounds of power so as France being well enough pleased with the falling out of others that so she might inhaunce and keepe intire her owne strength through their ruines it was clearely discerned that their intentions were neither to denounce Warre against the Spaniards nor yet to foment the Swedes but conditionally For if they should have denounced Warre to boot with the former alledged reasons concerning the Duke of Orleans absence it was to be considered that the breaking of peace without occasion given would adhibite faith to what was already suspected that the French intended to pluck downe the Spanish greatnesse and by the ruines thereof the more to aggrandise their own Monarchy and that which imported more then all the rest that the Austrian Force being counterpoised by the French-mens declaring of themselves 't was easily discerned that the Swedes having the way opened to proceed on to further greatnesse they would consequently be more confirmed in their resolution of not parting with the Townes upon the Rhyn nor yeeld to give the French such content as they desired Whereupon if the French should indeavour by force of Armes to make them forgoe their obstinacy it would be a meanes to make a pacification betweene the Swedes and the Emperour and to their no little prejudice incite them against themselves or by holding with them to rest contented with what they could purchase of themselves at the great expence of money and blood And because the French knew the great ill will that the Lorayners bare them to shun all insurrections they resolved onely to keepe Nancy La Motta and Bitsch and to throw open the Gates of all the other Cities walled Townes and Castles of that state which were 36 in number and to prevent any mischiefe that might happen at Nancy the Inhabitants were disarmed and at Nostre-Dame gate a Citadell of foure Bulworkes was erected In Italy where in due time 't was doubted their Armies might fall on they gave in Commission to Duke Crequi who was dispatcht from Rome that he should go to all the Princes and Potentates there under pretence of Visit Complements and ratification of his Majesties good intelligence with them but indeed secretly to informe himselfe how they stood affected towards his most Christian Majestie and where he should find any appearance of aversenesse that he should wisely indeavour to worke upon their affections by promises and by making his Kings good intentions knowne unto them making his agreement so with them that upon any occasion they might favour him and that he should invite them to an offensive League against the Spaniards in the State of Milan as the place which lyes open to the commerce of the Emperours Forces and the maine Body of their strength being thither reduced kept the neighbouring states in continuall jealousies He therefore went to Florence and though he had no hope to obtaine any thing of the great Duke by reason of his relation to the house of Austria yet to palliate the intentions of his other Visits 't was thought fit in all respects both of decency and faire correspondency that he should goe to that Court to make all his other Embassyes seeme but Complementall without futher causing jealousie in the Spaniard From thence he went to Venice where having stayd two moneths he found those wise Senators desirous to preserve the publique peace of Italy and constant in alwayes keeping good intelligence with his Majestie of France rather willing to be mediators for publique tranquilly then authors of new turmoyles Having tane leave at Venice where he admired the greatnesse of their regalities and the splendid manner of their treating he went to Mantua where being worthily received by Duke Charles and assured of his great good inclination to the Crowne of France he passed on to Parma to visit the Duke thereof whom he found full of high and generous thoughts and one who being a sprightly Prince was not contented to passe away his time in idlenesse a thing despised by exalted minds and having filled his Highnesse with vast hopes and assured him of his Kings assistance in keeping him independent upon the Spaniards and confirmed him in his good will to France and to that purpose agreed upon what was knowne fitting for the Dukes interest he followed on his journy to Pyemont and there passing over the Mountaines returned to France The Swedes vast hopes being ship-wrack't in the battell at Norlinghen and they knowing themselves to be reduced to such a condition as they could no longer with safetie keepe in such places âs were by them Garrison'd the Garrisons were drawn out at Biberach Bucorn Cell Rinfelt Friburg and from all other places where the Swedes had any by the Ringraves order who was then Chiefe Commander of the Forces in Alsatia and all these which might amount to the number of 3000. being added to the other 6000. the said Ringrave had with him and which were not in the battell the Swedish Commanders knowing it was impossible for them to keepe longer in those parts withdrew themselves to before Strasburg that they might hault tâere under the protection of that Citie reputed one the strongest of all Germamany that they might re-assemble in the best sort they could their
he resolved to ride streight towards the Frontiers of Picardy and took order to prevent any mischiefe which might insue that upon the day appointed certaine Troopes of French Horse should bee upon those Frontiers Hee went out of Brussels waighted upon by Messieurs de Pilloran de Fargis de Condray Montpensier leaving Monsieur de Candeboune to wait upon the Duchesse his Wife which Candebonne was afterwards sent away by the Spaniards as one they trusted not in And finally he arrived in France to the great contentment of all the Subjects Princes Ministers of state Cardinall and of the King himself which they exprest by Jubilean teares and all outward manifestations of joy and to the as great discontentment of all those who had laid their foundations upon these divisions The Spaniards who if all be true that was said were not very well pleased hereat did notwithstanding wisely cover their inward sorrow giving out how much they were joyed that their Kings Brethren in law were reconciled and that his Highnesse needed not have beene so secret in his departure for as they had courteously received him so would they as willingly have served him and attended him with such decency into France as became so great a Prince The Infanta whom we left after the Battaile of Nordlinghen in the Spanish Army in the Dukedome of Wirtenberg went by Ashaffemburg a City belonging to the Elector of Mentz upon the Main towards Cullen and came happily into the Country of Lucemburg with the great applause of the Inhabitants The King of Hungary having taken Neilburne a City in the Dukedome of Wirtenberg seated upon the Neccar which being onely surrounded with old Wals soone yeelded march't with his Forces towards the Ringrave who kept himselfe with his owne men and those hee had drawne out of Garrisons neer Offemberg to oppose the Caesarians proceedings in those parts not being strong enough to face a great and victorious Army discovering the Imperialists Scouts and having skirmished with them he retired towards Strasburg But being pursued by the Caesarian Horse and not able to get to the Bridge over the Rhyn before they overtooke him whilest hee past over his Foot it behoved him to skirmish with the Imperialists Horse where being overborne by the grosse of the Enemy and not able to passe over the Rhyn by the Bridge which was barricadoed by Carts and Foot he to save his person threw himselfe into the River and by swimming over it escaped the hands of the Enemy but left behinde him at this bout neer 400 Horse and some Carriages After this action the Imperialists fearing lest they might necessitate the Swedes to implore succour from France and to joyne themselves with the Army commanded by the Marshall de la Force who was fallen downe into Alsatia and was then quartered about Lindaw they kept themselves within there quarters for some time in the Dukedome of Wirtenberg not indeavouring any new businesse at which the Swedish Commanders did not a little wonder But this was by politicians interpreted a piece of cunning thus to afford leasure to the Swedes who were totally broken that gathering a little courage they might not give way to the demands made in Mentz by the French Agents concerning those Townes which they held upon the Rhyn and thereabouts and which they had yet refused to surrender But the Elector of Bavaria growing jealous at these delayes by which they seemed rather to seek peace with the Protestant Princes then pursue the warre 't was said that the Austrians foreseeing an almost inevitable rupture with France would first see the businesse of Germany setled that they might the more freely afterwards oppose themselves to the French Forces the which was to be indeavoured before they should declare open Warre against the French for if they should fall foule with them before the other affaire were setled they were likely to meet with greater difficulties then otherwise for inheartned by hopes from France their pretensions would be the loftier The Duke of Bavaria doubted lest the Emperour might conclude this Peace and lest he might remit the Count Palatine into his state so to gaine the friendship of the King of England which it much imported him to have Hee indeavoured therefore by what was gathered from understanding men to thwart this and made Iohn de Wert Commander of the Forces of the Catholicke League of which the said Duke as hath been formerly said was Generalissimo sit downe before Heydelberg the Metropolitan of the lower Palatinat to renew by this hostillity the jealousies between Caesar and the Crowne of England the which Wert did and tooke the Town and shortly after the Castle which wanting succour compounded The losse of this Towne though it opened the way for the Caesarians to advance without any difficulty towards Franckfort and Mentz yet was it not pleasing to the Imperiall Councell For Manheime being garrizon'd by the French a strong hold upon the Rhyn at the mouth of the Neccar formerly possessed by the Spaniards afterwards slighted by them to free themselves of the expence they must be at in maintaining a strong Garrison there which now they needed not and having built a Bridge upon Boates they would not oblige them to passe over the Rhyn and declare Warre They therefore kept themselves within their quarters at Wirtenberg and the Marquisat of Turlach not indeavouring any other enterprise attending the conclusion of Peace with Saxony which at this time was with much fervenvency and almost an assured successe treated of For the distastes which that Elector had taken against Oxesterne for the little respect given by him in his discourses to the Electors actions were growne to a very great height And though the French who were troubled this peace should be concluded sent Monsieur de la Grange to the Elector to disturbe it as it was commonly reported with promise of Monies Armes and assistance yet did they not feare to effect it for the Elector was not greatly well inclined to the greatnesse of Forreigne Protestants in Germany and therefore it was not to be believed hee would nourish the Warre at the desire of the French The end of the ninth Book DOCTRINA PARIT VIRTUTEM The Warres and other State-Affaires of the best part of Christendome THE X. BOOK The Contents of the Tenth Booke The Imperialists are invited to the surprisall of Filisburg by the Frenchmens neglected Guards many consultations being had they resolve upon the enterprise which they easily obtaine The French are much incenst at this surprisall and make great Military Provisions Franckfort upon the Mayne compounds with the Emperour The Spaniards surprise Triers and carry the Elector prisoner into Flanders Auspurg and other Cities brought to great extremitie cloze in with the Peace of Prague The French fall unexpectedly upon the Valteline and without any dispute make themselves masters thereof The state of Milan takes up Armes and the Spaniards are carefull to preserve the strong holds The
whole affaire and to desire him that he would interpose that the Duke might be permitted according as he desired to keep newter Duke Waymer by reason of his late bad successes was at this time in no good credit with such German Princes as were confederate with the Crowne of Swethland who did not applaud his too hasty actions Wherefore hee seeing that the Countries Contributions grew daily lesse and lesse that the Duke of Saxony had made his Peace with the Emperour and that many Hauns Townes had changed their Copy so as he knew not how longer to maintain his Army without help and assistance from the great Potentate the States from whence he raised his Monies and Victuals for the maintenance of his Souldiers being the most of them already in the power of the Austrians and the Country wherein he was quartered being totally wasted and consumed and that his Souldiers inforced by their sufferings fled to the Colours which were set up of all Nations for the King of France who foreseeing the insubsistency of the Dutch Companies in the Swedish service aswell for the want of Contribution as of pay which the Swedish Commanders converted to their owne use and fearing lest by the disbanding of these the Caesarian Army might bee augmented which was victorious and composed of the same Nation resolved to make some levies of Forreyners aswell for what hath been said as likewise to winne the affection of the Protestants who comming into his pay together with the aggrandizing of his already dreaded power the weakning of other Armies made not a little for the advantage of the French Waymer being therefore moved out of these considerations resolved to fly for protection to the French by whose Agents hee had been sought unto and perswaded to take pay of that Crowne and to ingage himselfe and his Forces in the service thereof The French foreseeing that unlesse they could divert the Emperours Forces which were numerous and well experienced the Fabricke of their designe was grounded but upon an ill foundation and that this division of the Dutch Forces was the right way to compasse their ends had procured this Princes dependency upon them he being a gallant Gentleman beloved by the Souldiers a greatly experienced Commander and who was at this time in great valew and estimation As also the like of the Landgrave of Hessen who was a sprightly Prince and of no lesse esteem with the Protestant party and the Elector of Saxony and all this was done through great promises which being food onely fit for weake stomacks the using therof was rather prejudiciall then advantagious to the safety of France For this was judged to be one of the chiefe motives which made the Duke of Saxony reconcile himselfe to the Emperour hee having too well found that the protection of more puissant Princes is nothing else but a hook whereby that liberty is fisht for which hath escaped the nets of other mens rule and govenment as he had very well found since his joyning in friendship with the King of Sweden The great Chancellour Oxesterne having likewise wisely weighed that any longer tarrying about the Rhyn would be hurtfull to the need which the Townes upon the Elb and Oder stood in of his assistance which might easily be invaded by the Saxon Forces joyned with the Emperours As likewise for the Dyet which was to be held at Hoband for the new Truce Peace or Warre with the Polachs leaving Mentz resolved to goe into Pomerania to provide for what was needfull for those Provinces which were yet held by the Swedish Forces and which did more import them then the others foreseeing very well it was impossible for the Swedes to keep any longer upon the Rhyn being pursued on one side by the Imperialists Sword and on the other side prest by the desires and perswasions of the French who knowing them to be but weake in Men Mony and Meanes to subsist did much urge them to give themselves up unto their protection that so they might get into their hands such Townes as they were possest of in those parts Hee therefore tooke his was by France where by command from the King he was honourably treated and received with extraordinary civillity and afterwards imbarking himselfe in some Holland Vessels at Callis he lânded safe in Holland and after divers negotiations with those States he parted from thence and came to his journies end Nurenberg which yet stucke to the Evangelicall League for so did the Protestants tearm theirs being reduced to that scarcity of Victuals as that a loafe of bread was sold for a Dollar and decaying much in trade it being a very populous City which lived upon handy-Crafts and Merchandizing seeing their hopes faile them of being succoured by the Swedes and Princes of the League being likewise invited by the examples of Ratisbon Auspurg and other Cities which had found more Clemency from the Conquerour then from the conquered for Caesar finding at last that violent meanes did not worke upon a malady cankered through the peoples obstinacy of not forgoing the liberty of their Conscience had applied the due remedy therunto to wit the permission of their said liberty and privileges which was the true Antidote wherewith to abolish hatred and regaine the peoples love agreed likewise that 't was better for them to reconcile themselves with the Emperour then to persevere in friendship with the Swedes from whom they had yet received but a ruinous preservation which peradventure would not have proved such if they had kept themselves in their due obedience to the Emperour The Swedes were in these confusions when the Imperialists imboldned by their victories and growing stronger in Alsatia and Burgundy thought it expedient to venter upon somewhat whereby they might satisfie the Duke of Lorayne and advantage themselves in those parts Montebelgarde which lies upon the Confines of Alsatia Burgundy Lorayne and Swizzerland and where the French had fortified themselves seemed to them a very convenient place to open their way into Lorayn Gathering therefore together all their Forces towards Brisach and Burgundy they advanced to the taking in thereof against which they planted their Cannon plaid upon the Towne and would doubtlesly have taken it had not the Marshall de la Force suddainly come in to the succour thereof who fortunatly gave the Austrians Battaile neer Luder and after a strong bickering had the upperhand and routed the Regiments of Wert Renoch and Merci the chiefe heads of that Army Whereupon the Imperialists fearing to bee worsted if they should continue the enterprise they had begun suddainly raised their Siege and retreated part into Burgundy part under Wert into Alsatia rather to guard that Province then to indeavour the winning of any Townes garrisoniz'd by the French As these the Austrians proceedings were jointly listned unto in Vienna and throughout the whole Caesarian Territories so was the news of the French-mens falling into the Valteline no lesse displeasing unto them whereby
appearance all things were fairely carryed on ãâã the English no lesse mindfull of the Spanish actions who under the colour of good neighbour-hood had formerly indeavoured by an Armado at Sea to land their men in that Kingdome and under pretence of comforting the oppressed Romanists to conquer it did very well know that the French could not be held under without promoting the Spaniards whom for many respects they ought more to dread then the Brench and in particular because the English greatnesse consisting at Sea which they must passe over who will set footing in that Kingdome they had more reason to feare the Spaniards that were as well potent by Sea as Land then the French farre inferriour to them in shipping and strength at Sea And for that the King of England was first to have satisfaction given him in his pretences of having the Palatinate restored to his Nephewes which was a businesse the Austrians desired not to heare of their thoughts proved imperfect especially since the Palatinate was conferr'd upon the Duke Bavaria and likewise the Electorall Cap so as it seemed not faire to bereave him of the title of Elector though the Palatinate should be taken from him and as good an estate given him Divers Propositions were therefore propounded hereupon by the wariest Court-Counsellours Some were of opinion That England was by all meanes possible to be satisfied not onely so to winne the love and affection of the King thereof but to interest him in a League which might moderate the excessive power of France already growne to too great an height and to take from the Protestants their pretence of taking up Armes against the Emperour by restoring the Palatinate and Electoricall Dignitie the which was knowne to many to be of great importance since that it little concerned the Emperour and his affaires whether that state were in the hands of the Duke of Bavaria or in the Prince Palatines and yet the not restoring thereof was of great concernment That by reason of this the Austrians became hatefull to the Protestant Princes and 't was a prevalent cause of raysing Warre which being fomented by France and England did much endammage the Empire as experience had already shewen for the expences the Austrians had beene at in the late Warres did twentie times exceed the full value of the Palatinate that notwithstanding not to quit good correspondency with Bavaria nor breake faith with him who was alwayes ready to disburse his owne monyes and indanger his state for Caesars service the Palatinate might be changed for the upper Austria as it had beene formerly done And that the title of Elector might rest in the Duke of Bavaria during his life and afterwards returne to the Palatine for that though they should not intend to doe so they should by this promise winne time to put the affaires of the Empire in order and get to be in a condition of altering their word at their pleasure Others thought it good to feed England with good words but that their actions should onely aime at their owne interests for though the Palatinate should be restored the English would not notwithstanding declare themselves Enemies to France for since it made for the interest of their Kingdome that both these Crownes should be weakened by the Warre they would endeavour to keepe the ballance equally poised betweene them that so by their ruines they might the more secure the peace and accommodation of their owne quiet Kingdome And as for the distaste they might receive by the not restitution of the Palatinate they should not any wayes apprehend that for the English would never joyne with the French to oppresse the Spaniards lest thereby they should augment their already excessive Forces which necessarily they ought to be jealous of but they would rather foment that partie whose declination might make the other more dreadfull Others affirmed It were more convenient to give in Lieu of the Palatinate some Lands in Swabendland and in Wirtenberg to the Duke of Bavaria and that the title of Elector should remaine to him during his life In fine the most voyces were for the restitution of the Palatinate but the putting of it in execution was much hindred through the feare the Imperialists had of distasting the Duke of Bavaria whose assistance was now more necessary for them then formerly And thus was this so weightie resolution retarded and inveloped with other considerations when Maximilian wisely fore-seeing that the Austrian Ministers of State might resolve upon somewhat which might give satisfaction to England and finding there was no better way to crosse it then by obliging the Emperour to have a greater care to the interest of his owne house he bethought himself of marrying the Emperours Daughter as well to winne more upon Caesars good will by this new alliance as to oblige his Imperiall Majestie rather to favour his grand-children then strangers This marriage was therefore managed with reciprocall desire the Duke desired it the more to oblige the Emperour and King of Hungary to continue friendship with him as likewise that he might have issue to succeed him in his Dominions which as yet he had not Caesar listened willingly thereunto as well to shew his affection to Bavaria as likewise to make him by this tye more firme to what concerned Caesar and to keepe him from being wrought upon by the perswasions and promises of France as it was said was mainely indeavoured by vast hopes whereby to withdraw him from his siding with the Emperour and certainly if the Duke should as things then stood have given eare thereunto such a resolution might have tended much to the prejudice of Caesar. The businesse was therefore wholly concluded though some good wits murmured thereat pretending to fore-see that such fruits might proceed from this marriage as might prove bitter to the Emperours house Whilest France and Germany were thus busied each of them making what preparations they could for the present affaires a Hollander named Entholts who being banished his Countrey lived amongst the Spaniards in Flanders and who was very ill satisfied with the states of Holland because they had beheaded his Father for having as it was layd to his charge conspired with other two of his companions to deliver up the Fort of Tiell seated upon the Wall betweene Bonniell and Niminghen unto the Spaniards whilest he lived in a Countrey that profest Neutralitie this Entholts holding intelligence with some kindred and friends of his who often used to advertise him how affaires went in those Provinces thought how he might effect somewhat which might correspond with his desires as it is usuall with men whose passion exciteth them to revenge And being advertised that the Fort of Skinck a very strong place situated upon the poynt of the Island made by the Rhyn which dividing it selfe here into two parts that on the left hand takes the name of the Wall the other on the right hand continuing the name of the Rhyn till it
opinion that they should passe by all the Forts and strong holds and suddainly over-run all the whole State of Milan possesse themselves of the most advantagious passages fortifie themselves there infest the Country continually and so bring the Townes and Cities to compound for the Country being well peopled full of Nobility and Inhabitants that lived commodiously when they should see their grounds wasted and their goods destroyed they would easily be brought rather to thinke upon the preservation of their owne estates and privat interests then upon the King of Spaines Forts and this opinion was assented unto by many as known to be the likelyest to prosper but this resolution requiring more Men and Mony and being by powerfull reasons disswaded by the Duke of Savoy not grounded upon any good intention to the French but upon his owne particular interest with the which it did not well agree that the State of Milan should fall into the King of France his hands the enterprise of Valenza was agreed upon Before the which the French being to spend much time the Spaniards consequently reaped thereby the benefit to provide for the defence of the other places and to succour Valenza likewise and the French losing many of their men before this place 't was easily descryed they would be able to effect little or nothing it being held as a strong reason of State that the French-mens further progresse in that Province made not for the good of any Italian Prince by reason of the good neighbourhood which they finde who confine upon great Potentates particularly upon such who desirous to inlarge their dominions invent pretences to breake their word and to usurpe what belongs unto their neighbours Yet this Counsell was held by wise men not to fit so well with the present interest of the States of Italy who gave for their reason that the State of Milan being a new Carthage which kept all its neighbours in continuall motion and being possest by the Spaniards a powerfull Nation ambitious of glory and which hardly ever parts with what it hath once gotten Italy would alwayes be troubled with their pretensions that the French were on the contrary unquiet impatient of staying long out of France thinking there was no other world but their own Kingdome that it would not be impossible to drive out them when they should have driven out the Spaniards and so redresse that Kingdome under the power of some Italian Prince as it formerly had been They added that to adde to the power of great Princes was to nurse up a Serpent in ones bosome which at last would devour the nourisher for great Potentates remember not their neighbours good turnes but are mindfull how they may commodiat themselves by the ruine of such as border upon them Others more partiall to the French replyed That all the foolish French were dead and all the wise Spaniards All things requisite being in a readinesse they gave order for their march thitherwards which was for a few dayes retarded for their were some who thought it was not good to undertake a businesse wherin any difficulty lay with the French Forces onely since Savoy and Parma had not covenanted openly to declare themselves till they should see some Towne possessed by the French and though some were of opinion that the Duke of Parma who had a strength of about 4000 Foot and 800 Horse was able to have made an Impression in the State of Milan by which the Spanish Forces being in many places cut short the worke would consequently be the easier for the French yet did not this opinion prevaile for the Duke not daring to declare himselfe openly an Enemy to the Spaniard till the French were so farre advanced as that they might easily succour him upon any occasion kept his Forces upon his owne grounds holding the Spaniards onely in jealousie But Crequi incouraged by the hopes hee had of the Duke of Parma's being well-inclined towards his King and by the desire he found in that Prince to breake with Spaine pitcht his Camp before Valenza raised Workes and planted his Cannon and began couragiously to set upon it The Marquis of Calada who was a little before put in there as superintendent Signor Francesco di Cardine who was the governour of the Towne and Captaine Spadino a worthy Gentleman knowing how acceptable the preservation of that place would be to the King of Spaine and how much glory they should thereby gaine unto themselves began to shew as much courage and industry in the defence thereof as the French did in their desire to win it The newes of the French Armies arrivall in the state of Milan being come to the knowledge of the Townes and Cities thereof brought with it no small feare to the Inhabitants and to the Spaniards themselves For those places wanting men sufficient for their defence the whole Countrey was in a confusion for the Souldiers of the Trained Bands by their taking up Armes were rather cause of grief lamentation to their wives and children who quit the Countrey then of comfort or incouragement to defence they being generally known for white-liver'd men Yet amidst these emergencies was not the Cardinall Albernois and the other Spanish Agents wanting in courage but according to their innate undauntednesse began to make such Provisions as they thought necessary and as the shortnesse of time would permit them Expresses were sent by Post into Spaine Naples and Germany to sollicite the amassing of men and moneys a new scrutiny was made of all the people of the state and out of every hundred men eight of the ablest were chosen to place in the Forts and Forreiners were removed from thence to be made use of in the Field Il Maestro de Campo Roma was sent to Mortara a Towne betweene Pavia and Verculles to be super-intendent there Don Carlo Colombo was sent to Alessandria and divers other men of worth to the Fort Sandavall and other places upon the Confines and all those places were re-inforced with men the Drummes beat up every where and Provisions were made for the present occurrences The Spaniards desisted not notwithstanding to negotiate by their Agents with the Pope and Republique of Venice that if they intended not to succour them neither should they assist the French and chiefly they feared lest the Venetians should declare themselves who were instigated by mightie offers from the French to appeare in their behalfes and to bring their Forces on this side Alda the Venetians being very strong having 8000 Foot of sundry Nations and 2000 Horse well in order in Lombardy beyond Mincio under the command of Luigi Zorzi their Generall a valiant man much esteemed and feared who to boot with his refined judgement was couragious and resolute in his Warre-resolves they had moreover more men quartered in Crema and thereabouts under the conduct of Michell Priuli a sonne not unlike his father who had formerly beene Duke of Venice an Heroick Prince who had a
noble heart and was of an experimented wisedome and others in Valcamonica a Valley of Breskiano which joynes upon the Valteline under the command of Martin de Molino a Gentleman of great wit and knowledge and moreover their Forts were all well provided with Men and Ammunition with chiefe Commanders and Senators who if they should have declared themselves for the French the wisest men were firme of opinion and the Spaniards themselves very well knew the state of Milan would be subject to the discretion of the French or to the Republique of the state of Venice Yet were all these suspitions ill-grounded for though the Venetians might easily enough have done this yet the object of the famous Republique and of those most wise Senators aiming onely at the common peace of Italy and the preservation of their owne flourishing Dominion so opportune an occasion was not sufficient to make them alter their worthily propounded end Nay they would have their Ministers of State to indeavour somewhat to divert the breach of those two Crownes and by them to remit Italy into its former quiet whereby all Christendome would be advantaged The Duke of Rohan was this meane while returned to Tirano to refresh his men who were wearied by their being continually kept in action in that Valley where he understood how that the Dutch which he had routed in the Valley of Levin being got together again by the arrivall of some Troopes from Tiroll were very strong in Bormio and that it was given out they would fall lower and try their fortunes with the French againe to which purpose they were come to Mazzo a Village neere the Ada betweene Bormio and Tirano He therefore resolved to encounter them and to make use of Fortune which shewed her selfe favourable unto him Having therefore mustered his men which might amount to 4000 Foot and 300 Horse he marched thitherward in sight of the Enemies Sentinells but the Imperiallists keeping themselves neere a Towne called Grossotto upon the Ada in a place of great advantage and the French not thinking that a fitting place to fall upon the Enemy Rohan that he might draw them off from that advantagious seat seemed as if he feared them and wheeling about made as if he fled to Cologno a little Village above Tirano Here possessing himselfe of the most adequat place he ordered a great ambush in certaine little Woods neere at hand and staid expecting the Enemy who being inheartned by the French-mens retreat and not beleeving them to be in a condition able to resist them they with this confidence passe over the Ada at Mazzo Bridge and flew eagerly upon the French Troopes crying out that now they would revenge themselves for their former rouâ But Rohan dexterously drawing them neere the ambush did unexpectedly salute them with a thick volley of Musquet-shot and facing about set so furiously upon them with his fresh Battaglions as the Dutch astonished at the accident thought to retreat by the same way they came and so betooke themselves to flight wherein they left above 700 of their men slaine and prisoners and if the two Colonells Pracher and Gianasso whom Rohan had sent on the other side to breake the Bridge over the Ada had made a little more hast few of the Imperiallists would have boasted of safetie Rohan did not much value this happy incounter unlesse he might thereby recover Bormio and the Bathes Therefore calling together his Chiefe Commanders and treating with them how to effect this his desire it was resolved wherein Colonell Montesin a French-man who had then the Van proffered his service to undertake that enterprise and he incouraged by Rohan advanced so boldly towards the Walls of the Town as though the ascent by reason of the Cliffs was difficult and above 300 paces long blockt up by three barricadoes well defended he by maine force entred the Towne putting all he met with at his first entrance to the Sword And from thence advancing towards the Bathes a place guarded by 200 Dutch Foot he likewise tooke it though all industry and military valour was used to keepe him from doing so by a Serjeant Major who commanded there in chiefe a Victory which proved notwithstanding wofull by reason of the death of the said Colonell Montesin wounded unfortunately by a Stone which fell from a woman out of a window and of above 105 other French-men It was of great consequence to the Hollanders that Skinck-Sconce should remaine in the Spaniards hands and wisely sore seeing that if it were not regained it would as affaires now stood be very prejujudiciall to all those Provinces they indeavoured by all art and military industry to win it the defenders whereof fought obstinately and the Hollanders indeavours were desperate insomuch as every day the flower of all the Souldiery was lost on both side The Duke of Saxony who was not onely reconciled to the Emperour but had joyned his Forces with the Caesarian Commanders finding that his Treaties of Peace with the Swedes though held in hand with some hopes by Bannier who did it that he might winne time and fortifie Magdeburg and furnish it with all things necessary it being a place at that time of the greatest importance to the Swedish affaires were in effect deluded resolved to remove his Campe and set upon Hall upon the Sala a place which being wonne would facilitate the taking of Magdeburg he therefore marched against the Towne which wanting Rampiers sufficient to withstand the Cannon Articled and yeelded and the Swedes that were of the Garrison forsooke the Towne and retired to the Castle a place somewhat fitter for resistance that they might preserve themselves there till the succour which they expected from Bannier should come unto them Though Valenza was bravely maintained by the defendants and that the Spaniards did little feare the bare French Forces yet the almost certaine feare they had that the Forces of the Dukes of Savoy and of Parma should joyne with them or that they should set upon the state in some other part had no little reflection upon their thoughts for they plainly saw that when they should declare open enmitie against the Spaniards it would be hard for them in such an emergency to make good all places Therefore to boot with all other Provisions had Marquis Lunatt Master of the Campe was sent into Alessandria to assist Colombo together with the Senator Arios Commissary of the Army Royall Every one was permitted to beare all manner of Armes save Pistolls Prince Trivultio indeavouring to rayse a Brigade of Foot at his owne charges made Colonell Carlo Mariani Campe-Master thereof Colombo readily prevented a Treachery which was discovered in Alessandria and detained the guiltie amongst which was one Don Diego a Spaniard and a servant of his and Ensigne Gagni Alessandrino Nothing was omitted that was thought behoofefull to obviate the imminent danger and in particular the secret intelligence held with the Duke of Savoy was brought to a narrow compasse
and somewhat of unknowne was agreed upon by the Duke in favour of the King of Spaine Crequi this mean while playd upon Valânza on all sides in so much as those that were wel-wishers to the French gave out a report that Valenza would yeeld or be lost which being got hold of by the common people began to be believed by the great ones and the wisest And this the rather for that the wary Crequi seeing how little good his Forces could doe unassisted by Savoy and Parma from whom as yet he had received nothing but hopes save 10 Companies of Curasses from Savoy under the command of Monsieur Flort a French Gentleman and Marshall of the Field resolved upon some prevalent meanes to perswade the Duke of Parma to declare himselfe openly against the Spaniards for when he should have done so Savoy would have all excuses taken from him why he should not condiscend to the desires incessant pressures made unto him by the French And the more to make Parma as being the further off declare himselfe for the French Crequi by expresse messengers sent him word that the Towne was already so distressed by his assaults as it would doubtlessely suddenly be tane that therefore he desired him to come and honour the Forces of France with his presence for that by so doing he might the more ingratiate himselfe into the favour of the King of France by declaring himselfe when the event of things were yet uncertaine The Duke believing that Crequi spoke like a reall friend being moreover desirous of glory and inheartned by hopes of bettering his condition with the division of the State of Milan suffered himselfe contrary to the opinion of his owne Counsellours to be perswaded by Crequi and to that purpose mustering his men at Saint Iohns Castle where were found to be 4000 Foot and 800 Horse he on the 30th of August sent some Squadrons on this side Poe into the Territories of Coniado the demeanes of Prince Trivullio and on the first of September those of Parma marched very secretly through the Country of Tortona and not meeting with any incounter came before that Town where staying a while and the Duke quartering himselfe neer Poe in Signor Scampa's Palace a Battery was suddainly raised on that side also against the Tenalia which was held by the besieged and moreover hee threw a Bridge of Boates over the River in that part as the Duke of Savoy did likewise on the other side who came thither also soone after with about 5000 men and this was done that they might passe on this side the River and hinder the succour which those of Valenza might receive by the Bridge which was guarded by the Spaniards The Spaniards being very much grieved at the Duke of Parma's hostility and the more for that they had alwayes beene held by the Dukes his predecessors as arbitrators of the affaires of that Dukedome could not tollerate the proceedings of the present Edward they therefore complained bitterly to the Pope to the end that that Dukedome holding of the Church and consequently the Pope being obliged to defend it hee should not afterwards have reason to move them to withdraw their Forces if they should invade that Dukedome since the Duke thereof had first given the occasion The Pope being wrought upon by such perswasions wisht the Duke not to molest the State of Milan lest hee might afterwards give the Spaniards occasion of waging Warre against him the Duke and therein interest the holy Sea The Duke of Parma pretending to have just cause to breake with the Spaniards dispatcht away a Gentleman of his to Genua to advertise that Republicke of his comming into the field and soone after publisht a Manifesto expressing therein what benefits the Crowne of Spaine had recived from his house and how on the contrary that Crowne had evilly requited him how Regent Villani had threatned him for that he had not consented to what had been propounded prejudiciall to his State in respect of sending him into Flanders as hostage of the others faith how instant the Emperours Embassadour had been with him to disburse more Mony then he was able and how he had sent an Embassadour into Spaine to represent unto his Catholicke Majesty how much hee might expect from him which Embassadour was entertained there many Moneths and at last returned backe without any answer The Spaniards knowing very well that the State of Milan was not to be succoured by help from Germany by reason that the passages of the Valteline were stopt by Rohan and that therefore they were to indeavour succour by Sea where it behoved them to have a considerable Fleet to scoure the Seas without danger of the French Vessels had already prepared a good Squadron of Gallies and round-botomb'd Boates in the Mediterranian under the command of Marquis Santa Croââ and thinking it was very fit for their purpose to take the Islands of S. Mârguerit and S. Honore places which would not onely have facilitated their navigation but be a hindrance to the French who passe from Marselles into the Territories of Genua and consequently would be a great trouble to the transportation of such provisions as they should indeavour to send to their Armies in the State of Milan and Montferrat sailed thitherward and landing some of their Foot made themselves easily masters thereof for the French not expecting such an attempt had neglected to put such defence into those Islands as was requisite for them The end of the tenth Book DOCTRINA PARIT VIRTUTEM The Warres and other State-Affaires of the best part of Christendome THE XI BOOK The Contents of the Eleventh Book The French continue to oppugne Valenza the Spaniards defend themselves valiantly many men of qualitie are slaine before it Gustavenburg falls into the Imperialists hands The Crabats invade France and are worsted Monsieur De Belieure the French Embassadour goes to many Princes of Italy Valenza is luckily succoured by the Spaniards which causeth the French-men to rayse their Siege being ill satisfied with the Duke of Savoy A great bickering in the Valteline betweene Rohan and Serbellone The Spaniards desire and obtaine passage from the Papists Cantons of Switzers for succour from Germany for Milan The Saxons proceedings against the Swedes Marquis Villa passes with those of Parma into the Countrey of Piacenza Marquis Leganes comes to Milan The Court of France is much troubled at the retreat from Valenza Consultation is had upon what is expâdient to continue the Warre in Italy The Duke of Parma goes into France to speake with the King Villa enters in hostile manner upon the Territories of the Duke of Modena and is made retire The King of England indeavours the restitution of the Palatinate but in vaine The Emperour demands helpe from the Princes of Italy for the Warre of Germany New Dutch Forces come to the State of Milan whereupon the Spaniards pursue to invade the Territories of the Duke of Parma The French
offer the Duke would have accepted as it was thought being inclined to Armes and no lesse to monies if he had believed the Mony would have been sent him and that the Venetians and the Pope would have assisted him in procuring of Men Victuals and Ammunition in their flourishing dominions without which he could not possibly undertake such an imployment From thence hee came about the end of August to Venice to move that Republicke to breake with Spaine and assist France upon which the French not without reason built very great hopes for if that State should have declared it selfe the Spaniards would certainly have lost Milan But because that wise and pious Senat intended not the perturbation but preservation of the publicke quiet of Italy the Embassadour had civill audience was magnificently received with such decorum as is usually practized by that splendid Republick to those who represent so great a King but carried no answer away save words full of courtesie and such as tended to the publicke quiet The French this meane while did straightly beset Valenza and plaid upon it on all sides and Crequi who thought he had brought it to an ill passe summoned the Towne threatning fire and Sword if it would not yeeld yet did these words little availe to abate the Spaniards daring who more couragious then ever answered the Trumpeter that brought the summons that the Spaniards used not to surrender any place for threats that they could not give way to bravadoes that the French should doe well instead of words to use deeds wherein they should be answered and should be taught that the Governour of Valenza had learnt from his Ancestors that threats never prevaile with well-borne Gentlemen At the time of this summons the Spaniards who knew it was requisite to bring them speedy and opportune succour before the French should have possest themselves of their out-Workes to the preservation whereof good numbers of men were requisit and that the losse of them would bee very prejudiciall to the Towne and much impede the succouring thereof resolved to advance and resolutely to indeavour the bringing in of men Don Carlo Colombo was therefore commanded to march thitherward and to indeavour to seat himselfe in Frescarolo about two miles from Valenza who comming with 4000 Foot and 10 Companies of Horse on the seventh of October to Pieue del Cairo staid there till the tenth of the same moneth Where hearing that the French having past the Poe advanced both with Horse and Foot with intention to take the said Frescarolo and by the taking thereof which was not possest by the Spanish Army having onely some sicke men and Sutlers in it to fortifie themselves in the Castle which was walled about with good old Wals and so make the Spaniards quit the fields who lay round about every where hoping to relieve the Towne and the Marquis of Terracusa who was then without any command in the Spanish Camp perceiving the French-mens drift and learning moreover that some few files of Foot with two Sakers were already on their march thitherward advertised Colombo thereof by whom hee was held in good esteem as one who had borne great offices in Flanders they immediately tooke counsell how to governe themselves upon this occasion Whereupon the next day the Horse moving from their former station and being backt with some files of Muskettiers hee possest himselfe of the way by which the Enemies Foot advanced where they fell to skirmish and the Neapolitans bravely withstood the Enemies Charge and broke their designe for at the same time the Spaniards that were led by the aforesaid Terracusa to whom for his greater honour the government of that affaire was that day commited set upon a Battaglion of the Savoyards who by order from their Duke hee being in person in the French Camp began to retreat and re-passing over the Poe without fighting as they might have done they returned to their former quarters whether the said Dukes Horse did likewise retreat being pursued by the Spanish Horse which upon this occasion were commanded by the Count de Sora a Spaniard who likewise served as a Voluntier under Colombo So as staying there three dayes on the 15th of the said October they luckily succoured the Towne with all things necessary to the great resentment of Crequi and the French Commanders who though it behoved them at the present not to take notice thereof yet could not Crequi forbeare saying to the Duke of Savoy My Lord Duke if it be your Highnesse pleasure to suffer Valenza to be succoured we need not trouble our selves in keeping any longer before it The French perceiving by the entrance of this reliefe that their hopes of winning the Towne were vaine their men being wearied and much lessened in lying before it and that any longer delay proved much to their disadvantage for whilest they to little purpose entertained themselves in that Siege the Spaniards augmented their numbers in Naples Cesely Germany and other places they with a joynt consent raised their Siege on the 26th of October the French and Duke of Parma retiring to Saint Salvadore and the Duke of Savoy with his men towards Satirana whereupon Colombo who kept in his quarters at Frescarolo to hinder any foraging upon the Kings Land on this side Poe and any further inrodes into the Country as likewise to make use of such occasion as fortune should offer him to incommodiate the confederates finding the French Campretreated went to his former quarters of Pieue del Cairo and watched there over the Enemies proceedings who to colour this their retreat gave out that they were to joyne with some Forces of Dolpheny that were comming towards Piemont and that being so joyned they intended to set upon the Spaniards in the fields for that they knew them to be too good at the defending of Wals. But this was but the opinion of the vulgar who alwayes talke of things not as they are but as they would have them For the French being much cast downe by the miscarrying of their enterprise whereby they suffered much in honour were not yet growne so confident as to venter upon another which was uncertaine and dangerous And the good which they had promised unto themselves appeared much more unlikely for the Duke of Savoy the originall of all their mischiefe not liking that they should get footing in the State of Milan did so craftily behave himselfe and was so well able to cloake his feigned intent as the French who trust more to their Sword then to their judgement not aware of his cunning threatned much but did little 'T was afterwards suspected that the Duke of Parma was contented Valenza should be relieved for hee finding all Crequies formerly said instances quite contrary to what hee expected was not very well pleased but beginning to doubt 't was said he made his complaints to Crequi foreseeing that the Spaniards being victorious in their defence might undertake some-what to his prejudice
The raising of the Siege from before Valenza caused much murmure between the French chiefe Commanders and the other Colleagues in their argumentations what had inforced them thereunto Some openly complained of the Duke of Savoy as the authour and abettor thereof others blamed Crequi saying he cared not to end the worke but onely that the Warre should bee prolonged for his owne interest and others accused the French Commanders in generall for that not caring how their Companies diminished they little minded the preservation of their Souldiers so as their Army lessening and the Spaniaâds increasing in their Forces they were necessitated to forgo the enterprise which if it had been wisely handled there were very strong arguments to prove that the Towne could not have been maintained By this confusion of the Colleagues the Spaniards hopes began to bud againe which were well-nigh withered out of feare of losing that Towne Though Celada's death who died within the Town of a malignant Feaver much lessened the contentment which every one had in the victory for this young Gentleman had upon this occasion given such proofe of his worth as had filled all men with much expectation from him After having returned thankes to God with great demonstration of joy they thought that since the French had failed in their taking of Valenza they should be prosperous in their intended purpose of driving Rohan out of the Valteline Egg'd on therefore by this desire which usually accompanies hope they resolved thereupon The enterprise was therefore agreed upon with Serbellone and Robustelli one of the chiefe men of that valley and who depended upon Spaine both which being ambitious to have their share in so great glory were too lavish in their counsells and reasons and coveted by whatsoever meanes to free the afflicted valley and drive out the French who were already dejected by their compagnions retreat from Valenza All such Souldiers and Provisions as were thought requisite for such a businesse were sent therfore away towards Fort Fuentes But because Rohan was then at Tirano about the building of a Fort there for his keeping of that valley Serbellone wisely as became a good and experienced Souldier would first be informed in what condition the French Army was in and what they did before he would advance further Hee therefore sent a friend of Robustelli's from Morbegno thitherward that hee might discover and accordingly advertise them what the Enemy did that so they might governe themselves as they should see occasion This man when he came to Tirano at his entrance in at the Gate were it either by his pale lookes or by the uncertaine answers he gave unto the Guard who according to the Military fashion asked him whence he came and whether hee went was laid hand of and brought to Rohan who like a wise man after having very curteously received him said unto him My friend I know wherfore you are come hither conceale therefore nothing but tell the truth which if you doe I promise you not onely to save your life but to send you safe backe whence you came He not knowing how to answer to such questions as one convinc'd kneeling downe acquainted him with all the affaire and with the Spaniards designe Whereupon imbracing the present occasion which he thought very opportune and not to lose time he called his Commanders and chiefe Officers together and acquainting them with the Spaniards designe incouraged them all by calling to minde their past victories and putting them in hopes of more which seemed like a flash of fire that had made its way through some inclosed place for all doubt and fear of the enemy vanishing immediately from out the hearts of those CoÌmanders he speedily marched towards Sondrio a Town in the midst of that valley whether he came before the Spaniards knew that hee was gone from Tirano where having refresht his men who lay all night in the fields for he would not suffer them to come into the Towne for the gaining of time and being advertised that the Spaniards Cannon was not yet parted from Delibio a place between the Lake and the River Lesina beneath Fort Fuentes nor yet the Souldiers who were there to guard them hee advised with his Councell of Warre what was best to be done who all joyned in opinion to advance forward and without any delay to set upon the Spaniards that were about Morbegno Serbellone hearing of the French-mens approach would not give one foot backe but in all haste made the Count S. Secondo advance with his Horse on the right hand unto the foot of a Mountaine behinde a little Church dedicated to S. Peter Trivultio's Brigado placed it self towards the Ada having the advantage of a little Fenne not farre from the said Church and the Spaniards staid in the Reere upon the plaine of the Parish of Morbegno Rohan advancing by the Champian of Talemona made Monsieur de Vandy's Regiment march forward to possesse himselfe of Bit Bridge but not comming time enough he found the Spaniards had prevented him Rohan finding these difficulties resolved to make his Horse advance wherin he trusted most but the straightnesse of the place and narrow wayes would not suffer him so to doe wherefore fearing lest they might fall upon some Ambush he coÌmanded them to retreat made Monsieur de Lecas his men to advance which was composed of new men He was notwithstanding fought withall by the Italians and with no little losse to the French repulsed Rohan being hereat mightily incenst marcht himselfe in person in the head of Frideliera's Regiment and gave upon the Spaniards who with equall valour withstood their fury after an houres very hot service and wherein they fought Sword to Sword the French-men charging with great obstinacy at whose head stood 100 Souldiers lighted from off their Horses Trivulsio's Regiment was at last forc't to forgoe the Fenne and consequently to retreat which being confusedly done by those Souldiers the greatest part of them being new men who had never seene the face of an Enemy before as the other Spaniards had usually done they fled from the French and lost many of their Souldiers and Officers of importance and amongst others the Count S. Secondo This losse made the Austrians perceive how the difficultie of getting the Valteline grew every day greater and greater Yea after Serbellone was routed a body of Dutch advancing towards the Bathes of Bormio so to enter the Valley was likewise routed and driven backe Hereupon they bethought themselves how they might bring the Emperours aide into the state of Milan And lastly knowing no other way but by the Switzers they communicated their desires to the Canton of Lucerna and other Papists Cantons with promise of good store of money who allured by profit suffered them to passe through their Townes Thus by their dexterious behaviour did the Spaniards overcome those difficulties by their moneys which they could not so easily have done by their Sword The great Duke of Tuskany
likewise who was very affectionate to the house of Austria to boot with the Brigado of Foot which he raysed at his owne costs in Helvetia did upon this occasion likewise assist the state of Milan with 300 Horse under the command of Marquis Cosimo Richardi Whereupon Beliviere leaving Venice came to Florence not out of any intention to make the great Duke side with the Crowne of France but at least to moderate the evill opinion which the Princes of Italy might have taken of that Crowne by reason of the French-mens falling into Italy and to keepe the great Duke as much as possibly he could from assisting the Spaniards And because the opinion grew stronger every day that the Duke of Savoy held secret intelligence with the Spaniards 't is said that to moderate in some sort this report the King of Spaines Agents held it fit to dismisse the Abbot Torre who was the Duke of Savoyes Embassadour from Milan under pretence that considering the breach made by his Master against the King of Spaine it was not fitting a Minister of his should keep with those against whom he had declared himselfe an open Enemy At this time Don Franchesco di Mello a man of great esteeme sent as extraordinary Embassadour from Spaine to the Emperour tooke Milan in his way and staid there it being reported he was to have beene made Governour thereof The Spaniards this meane while building very much upon the Duke of Modena's declaring himselfe for them as well for the assistance they might expect from that Prince of warlike people as for the credit of being reverenced by such an Italian Potentate not respecting the right of discent in the Prince of Correggio mediated with the Emperour therein in the behalfe of the Duke of Modena that the true Prince might be deprived thereof and the other invested thereinto as it insued upon the promise of disbursing 200000 Dollars The Elector of Saxony having after some dayes stout defence made by the Swedes taken the Castle of Hall knew it was requisite for him to joyne with the Imperiall Troopes who were then in good numbers about Franckfort upon the Oder that they might joyntly invade those Townes which were by them pretended unto and were held and gainsaid them by the Swedes He therefore marched towards Berlin a Citie of Brandenberg upon the Hault where the Swedes were who were much grieved at the uniting of those Forces as making much against that which they intended and being hereof advertised Bannier thought it expedient to remove from thence Therefore having brought his Souldiers neere Ratzaw and having quickly taken Verbeâ which not being in a condition to stand out immediately Articled the small Garrison which guarded it marching out with their Bagge and Baggage he left therein a good guard for it was a place of some moment for him and then marched with his Army towards the Enemy where some Regiments of the Swedish Horse meeting with some Squadrons of the Saxons which scoured the Countrey they so evilly treated them as that they made them runne away to the Electors head-quarters The Elector of Brandenburg was much troubled with this Hostility betweene the Swedes and Saxons who confining upon them both if he should declare himselfe for either side he should bring the Warre home to his owne doores So was likewise the Duke of Mechelberg who could expect nothing but much prejudice from this their falling out Therefore an accommodation betweene the Swedes and Saxons being very much desired by those two Princes they were not wanting in their best indeavours to compose those differences but they could doe no good therein for the Swedish Commanders being particularly offended by the Elector and incited through a deâire of Warre whereon their greatnesse did consist for they thereby much inriched themselves held the businesse in suspence upon very small hopes and at last all the differences consisting in a declaration which contained that before they would proceed further they would be repossessed of all that they did possesse the yeare 1634. the Treaty fell to the ground The French-men fayling in their intentions of taking Valenza which for the reasons formerly alledged they much desired seeing that the numbers of the Spaniards did dayly increase in the state of Milan by the assistance of other Princes their friends for now the Dutch began to march towards them under the command of Prince Borso of Este and Colonell Giledas together with other Switzers to boot with many Foot that were raysed in the state of Modena and in Tuscany and those that every day were landed from Spaine and Naples thought it fitting to ease the quarters of Montferrat which began to be very burthensome to those people by sending backe the Duke of Parma's Forces into their owne Countrey But because their numbers were much lessened in lying before Vabenza and that they could not without evident danger passe through the Territories of Tortona and so enter into Piacenza without being back't with greater Forces and when they should be luckily arrived there they were not able to defend their state from the Spaniards who were expected to invade them they indeavoured all they might to make the Duke of Savoy joyne his Generall the Marquis Villa with those of Parma who with the Savoy Horse might back the Duke of Parma till he should come to his own home where when he should be they would then bethinke themselves of new resolutions to which the Duke gave way though he suspected that the French did this to weaken his Forces that they might have him the more at their beck for by his suffering Valenza to be succoured the French had renewed the former jealousies they had of his actions Villa therefore left his quarters and marching towards Tortona began to doe as was agreed upon but the Spaniards who had heard hereof sent speedily away 3000 Foot and 10 Companies of Horse to Tortona whither they came on the 23th of December and lodged in the Suburbs of the Citie from whence they sent out Scouts to discover the Enemies proceedings and understanding that Villa with his Horse appeared already in very good order upon the Territories of that Town they thought it expedient to foord over the Sârivia a Torrent not far from thence and send some Horse towards the Savoyards seconded by divers Files of Musquets intending to set upon them on the Flanke and by fighting with them to make the Colleagues alter their intentions But the Spaniards finding themselves not strong enough to encounter them though they were somewhat advantaged by the protection of the Citie and the Cannon thereof which playd upon the Enemies Horse being come within their reach they kept their stations forbearing to make any further attempt so as while this was a doing the Foot which marched on the other side came successefully to the new Castle of Scrivia not having so much as one Musquet-shot made at them though there were some Spanish and Neapolitan Foot there and
from holding any prejudiciall correspondency with the French as likewise to procure from them some succour if not of men nor money yet of minds well disposed towards his affaires he gave the charge hereof to Crast one of his Court-Counsellours who parting from Vienna and comming to Venice after having with all tearmes of courtesie and appearing confidence but as was repârted without obtaining one penny of money dispatcht his Embassy with that Republique pursued his journey to the other Princes from whom receiving likewise all such satisfaction as is usually given by excuses and faire words the negotiation proved of little or no effect For the Italian Princes resenting their expences occasioned by the ambition of the Austrian Agents and their numbers being much diminished by the contagion brought into their States by the Imperialists could neither have any appetite to disgest such dangers nor reason sufficient to perswade them to soment a greatnesse which in due time would be exercised against the benefactors thereof But the Spaniards who were now become strong and numerous in the State of Milan for to boot with the Horse and Foot sent to them from the Kingdome of Naples there were likewise arrived 8 of Gileda's his Companies 6 Companies of Foot belonging to Colonell Lunardi 10 of Horse to the Count De Slich and other 10 of Dragoones to Colonell Girone thinking it now time to move some whither resolved to doe somewhat in recompence of the Hostilitie used in the Countrey of Regio against the Duke of Modena by the Savoyards and those of Parma They therefore entred upon the Piacenzan Territories set upon and tooke S. Iohns Castle which suddenly yeelded by reason of the flow advance of succour which came not time enough though it were sent by Marquis Villa Wherefore those of Parma the Towne being lost retreated which they could not so suddenly doe but that being followed by those of Modena they suffered some losse in the skirmish which certainly would have beene greater had not the Spaniards thought this their retreat a stratagem to draw them into an ambush so as they ceased from further pursuing them and retreated to S. Iohns Castle where leaving a Garrison of 700 Dutch Foot Gambaccorta the Governour of the Horse had order to over-run the Piacenzan Territories the which hee did burning some Barkes upon the Poe and bringing good store of Cattell into Cremona Which hostile acts being understood by the French Crequi that he might seem not to neglect the State of Parma thought to make the Spaniards quit the Pâacenzan Territories by diversion he therefore sent out some Companies of Horse and Foot who pillaged some Townes and Villages on this side the Poe sackt Palestro Confienza and Robio but got not much thereby for all the best things had been wisely conveyed away from thence before into places of greater strength Wherefore the Governour sent speedily a good Body of men to the Confines of Novara and hee himselfe went in person to Briagras to looke to the preservation of the State and to oppose the Enemies designes who notwithstanding continuing their inrodes did likewise sack Vespola Bannier being inheartned by the Saxons retreat advanced with his Army from Magdeburg towards Henneberg a place neer Sala where meeting with 7 Imperiall Regiments hee fought with them and put them to flight inforcing them to retreat with some losse from thence he came before Leipsick set upon it and would have taken it had not the Elector who was much concerned in the losse thereof in respect of his owne interest and for the reputation of his Forces speedily joyned himselfe with Colonell Maracini who commanded a Body of Caesarians to the number of about 7000 and was advanced thitherward the which when Bannier understood after having gotten some contribution from the neighbouring Townes he retired towards Hall upon the Sala not to hazard the fortune of a Battaile wherein he feared hee should receive some great prejudice being weake in men and the Saxons having about 28000 fighting men the Caesarians being cast into the number The Pope and great Duke of Tuscany who were not a little grieved at the troubles of Italy and in particular at the falling out betweene Modena and Parma from which they saw much of incommodity might in time ensue to their States for this was a businesse wherein they were likely to be interessed both the one for the one the other for the other party resolved to indeavour an agreement between them before businesses should be growne to a greater hight They therefore begun to negotiat to purpose with their Highnesses insomuch as by their interpositions the Forces of Modena retreated from the Territories of Parma and shortly after their differences were quieted through the good indeavours of Monsignior Mellino Bishop of Imola sent to this purpose from the Pope to Modena and Parma On the other side the Spaniards perceived there was no better way to bring the Duke of Parma to their devotion then to reduce him to a necessity of being succoured by the French upon the confidence whereof he had declared himselfe For when he should see that their words and their deeds did not correspond as they were confident they would not he would have just cause to provide for his own safety And they likewise knew that to succour Piacenza and to withstand the Spanish Forces which were about Montferrat it would be requisite for them to have a very great Army of which there was but little likelihood for the French came unwillingly into Italy and the few that were there every day ran away and their Commanders minded more their owne preservation and their making good cheer in Montferrat and Piemont then the winning of another Country which conteined in it so many and so great incommodities difficulties They therefore resolved to appeare more ready to offend him and on the fifth of March made some of their men advance and tooke the Town and Castle of Colorno a place between the Poe and the River Parma which upon the sight of Cannon Articled and yielded as likewise did Merano a place belonging to the jurisdiction of Parma upon the side of Poe towards Casall the greater Advancing further they lodged in the Townes of Count Saint Secundo giving out that they did it to remit the heirs of that Count into their Territories their father having lost his life in the businesse of the Valteline in the King of Spaines service In all which they prospered and met with no lets there being no Souldiers to oppose them for little lesse then their whole Militia was in Parma and Piacenza and retreated into their strong places to keep themselves safe till the arrivall of the promised succour from France And Villa who kept still about Piacenza durst not come forth of his quarters with those few men he had as not able to oppose the Spaniards Crequi hearing of these invasions indeavoured to do somewhat in the State of Milan so to divert the
Spaniards Therefore they more then ever renewed their hostilitie in the State of Piacenza and making more Dutch Troopes advance they tooke the Castle of Rottofredo betwixt Titon and Trebbia and afwards Valditaro and S. Donino and wasted all those Territories 't was said their intention in doing this was that if the Duke should come with a French Army into his Countrey to invade the State of Milan on that side he should find neither Forrage nor Victualls to maintain himselfe by which meanes they should secure themselves on that side and so much the rather for that the French when they should be brought to that ruined Countrey of narrow Precincts they being a Nation who cannot well endure hunger if at other times and in other places they were accustomed to runne from their Commanders they would much the more doe so here having the commoditie to goe see Mantua and Venice And the Spaniards greatly fearing that the French upon the Duke of Parma's comming and their Commission from the King should rather attempt somewhat in the State of Milan they sent Don Alonso de Quiranes the Lieutenant Generall of the Horse with 24 companies of Horse into Novara to watch over the French-mens wayes and to oppose them in such sort as his experience should bid him till such time as necessary Provisions for defence were had in the State of Milan And because the Spaniards knew of what importance Rottofredo and the Borrough of Valditaro were by reason of their situation for the present Warre they resolved to fortifie them for that maintaining themselves there though the French should come to succour Piacenza they would be able to bring them to great sufferings and to hinder the French from advancing on that side into the States of Milan or of Modena And for that the keeping of good intelligence betweene the Spaniards and the Duke of Modena was very requisite in many respects they sent Don Francisco di Mello to the greater Cassall whither likewise the Duke came and speaking together 't was said that Mello in his Kings name did againe assure his Highnesse of his Majesties perfect good inclinations to what concerned him wishing him to cast away any umbrage of feare he might have that the French passing into the Countrey of Parma were to lay hands on the State of Râgiâ or of Modena Others said that Mello let fall some words to invite the Duke to come to the Court of Spaine which was much desired by the Spaniards that they might not goe lesse with France which had beene visited by the Duke of Parma Others said it was to raise more men out of that State and to interest that Prince yet more with the Crowne of Spaine but every man judged as he thought good guessing onely by conjectures for no man knew any word he said The Duke of Alcana came likewise at this time to Milan who was reported should be entertained as Governour thereof and who was much welcomed and in stately manner met without Pavia by Leganes Mello and other Cavaliers The French were as diligent as the Spaniards in examining what would make most for their advantage and of all the rest Crequi was offended that his fame should not now mount as high as it had done in his former actions foreseeing that if by his valour he should not make good those hopes which the Court expected from the comming of the Duke of Parma and the Kings commands he should goe lesse in reputation The French Kings chiefe Commanders and Ministers of State being met in Cassale such Propositions were put to be wisely weighed as were thought fitting by such as were more passionate then others to see the honour of the French Forces lessen the contents whereof were That the Army being brought together it should immediately march towards the State of Parma that when they should have driven the Spaniards from thence made Piâcenza their Arsenall of Armes and all necessary Provisions they should couragiously and boldly set upon the State of Milan on this side which as it was more opulent and abounding in plentie then any other part so did it want Forts able to withstand a strong Army and that when they should have ransackt the Countries of Cremona and Lodegian and made themselves Masters of those two Townes which were not very strong they might easily beleaguer the Citie of Milan they fortified these opinions by these reasons That if this were not done the Duke of Parma who had readily without any respect to his owne particular declared himselfe for them might lawfully make his peace with the Spaniard Whereupon together with the losse of so important a friend they were to suffer not onely in their reputation but even in their plighted faith for all other Princes taking example hereby would be careful how they built upon hopes from France That the friendship of the Princes and Potentates of Italy was one of the greatest goods that could befal the Crown of France and contrariwise the greatest prejudice that could happen to Spaine That Charles Duke of Maâtua's obligations to France were knowne the affection and intire friendship of the state of Venice That doubtlesse though the state of Parma should prove penurious as not to be able to maintaine an Army it would be supplyed from Mantua Ferara and Venice That the Princes would be glad of such a neighbour-hood for that the Spaniards having thereby recourse unto their Townes their Territories growing consequently more populous and they inriching themselves by their neighbours pillage their Principalities would be thereby advantaged That it was not to be believed that the Spaniards though stronger then they were would resolve upon a generall battell with the French Army since by losing they should lose too much and by winning gaine but little That therefore they were to furnish Brem Cassalle and other neighbouring Forts with all things necessary to send speedy advertisement to the Court to the end that more Forces might with expedition be sent by the King to set upon the State of Mila on the other side that so they might effect the work according to their desire The other Commanders would easily have given way to these reasons as appearing probable and valid but considering the end and scope of the enterprise there were some who openly opposed them alledging That the French had not about 7 or 8 thousand Foot and 2500 Horse wherewithall to keepe the Field that this was a small number in respect of the difficultie of the undertaking and the recruits which the Spaniards had received from divers parts that they were for many miles to passe through the Enemies Countrey having Valenza Alessandria and Tortona upon their Flanks and backs that the Army would be perpetually disturbed that they could not promise themselves any safe retreat if they should have occasion so to doe it was rather to be feared that the Spaniards by possessing themselves of the most advantagious Avenues might crosse them in their march and
confused in their following of him he left the Campe full of fires though no body was therein and having put part of his Foot into Magdeburg he with his Horse wasting all the neighbouring Territories retired to Serbest some six houres march from Magdeburg over-running all parts thereabouts and pillaging the Townes even to Brandeburg and from thence to Havell to the end that the Saxons finding neither Victualls nor Forrage might be incommodiated in their Siege and not be able to keepe long before that Citie and meeting with two Regiments of Saxons who were advanced to watch over and oppose his designes being in condition to withstand them for some of Maracinies men were come up to him he ingaged himselfe with them in a gallant fight routed them and tooke from them eleaven Standards flew 200. tooke many prisoners and returned againe to Serbest But the Elector having sent some Barques of Ammunition and instruments of Warre downe the River to Rossemburg a Towne upon the Sala and Elb he himselfe likewise advanc't thether being joyned with Azfelt who brought with him about 9000 fighting-men and having made two Bridges upon Boats over the Elb and Sala he commanded Azfelt to advance towards Magdeburg on the Bishopricke of Halberstats side and he himselfe past with his men on the other side the Elb to set upon Bannier to drive him from Zerbest and to begin the Siege But he found the Swedes parted from thence and quartered betweene Magdeburg and Werben in Tregemonde where they expected Oranghell who was already at Stetin with 8000 Souldiers They therefore halted here and fortified themselves making a Bridge that as time should serve they might succour Magdeburg which being strongly set upon by the Saxons those within the Towne did valiantly defend it and by gallant and continuall sallies did annoy the Enemy in their ãâã and quarters The Hollanders did now besiege and batter Sckinck-Sconce the former losse whereof as hath beene said did much trouble them in succour whereof Colonell Iohn de Nassaw was come with his men to Cleves a Citie three leagues distance from thence and the Spaniards were likewise advanced who tryed on all sides though in vaine to surprise the Hollanders in their Trenches who were so well fortified with Trenches re-doubts and their men did so desperately behave themselves as the Spaniards holding it impossible to break into them resolved to returne to Cleves and Goch where a little before to the universall sorrow of the Infanta and all the Commanders of that Army the Marquis of Aytona dyed a Gentleman greatly wise and as well courteous in his demeanour as valiant and experienced in Warre At this retreat the Hollanders being much incouraged and not desisting day and night to batter and assault the Fort they at last set upon it with such force and boldnesse as the defendants wanting further meanes to maintaine it and the Hollander being dead therein who had surprised it and who was sent thether by the Spaniards to defend it they Articled on the 26th day of May and on the 30th of the same Moneth about 900 Foot marched out with their Armes Baggage Drums beating Colours flying and 4 pieces of Cannon and marched towards Ghelders and the Hollanders entred to the great applause and ineffable content of all the States and people of those Provinces But if Fortune favoured the Hollanders in assisting them so quickly to compasse their desired enterprise she frown'd upon the Imperialists before Hannaw for though Lamboye was succoured by 3000 Souldiers and that he did more and more streighten the Fort the Swedes and Inhabitants by valiant defending themselves and by unheard of daring and continuall sallies annoying the Caesarian quarters they kept them at distance and in awe and making excursions even to the banks of the Maine they fired the Barques that were sent to Franckfort which caused a great dearth in that Citie the Inhabitants whereof were reduced to that poynt as they durst not for feare of the Garrison of Hannaw goe one mile out of the Citie nor live in the neighbouring Villages The end of the eleventh Book DOCTRINA PARIT VIRTUTEM The Warres and other State Affaires of the best part of Christendome THE XII BOOK The Contents of the Twelfth Book The Spaniards are much troubled to heare of the French-mens passing into the state of Parma They advise about and provide for their affairs Rohan enters into Valsazena and breakes the building wherein Cannon Bullets were made The King of England sends the Earle of Arundell to the Emperour about the Palatinate The Landsgrave of Hessen having surprized Minden succours Hannaw Duke Waymer declared Generall of France and Swethland in Germany prepares for Warre Dole in Burgundy is besieged by the French The Duke of Parma returnes privatly to his own Dominions Crequi with his Army enters into the heart of the state of Milan He cuts off the water from Navillio that goes to Milan Incamps himselfe on the fields of Castane and puts all the neighbouring parts in great feare The Spaniards invade Picardy and by the falshood of some of the Governours take some Forts The Duke of Orleans in head of his Majesties Forces make divers Atchievements France takes Allarme and provides for such inconveniencies The Spaniards publish a manifesto against the government of the King of France his Ministers but get nothing thereby A bloâdy Battaile is fought upon the fields of Castane neer Pamperduto between the French and Spaniards The French after a while retire from the places they had tane neer Pamperdueto Divers discourses upon the Duke of Savoys actions Zaverna yeelded to the French The Prince of Conde retires from Dole Magdeburg is yeelded to the Duke of Saxony who doth divers other things The Emperour comes to Ratisbon where the Dyet begins The Spaniards go out of Navar against France They incamp themselves before Bayone The Spaniards thinke upon the taking of Piacenza and to that effect marcht towards it The Duke of Parma makes protestation in France that without aid he can no longer hold out against the Spaniards The King of Hungary is chosen King of the Romans in Ratisbon and what the Austrians joy was WHilest affaires went thus in Germany great preparation for Warre was made in Flanders and all Europe stood as a spectatrix inquisitive what the event of so great provisions made on all sides would bee The Spaniards having sent the Duke of Alcala to the State of Milan to assist in the government of that Dukedome Leganes not being able to be both in Milan and in the field at once made it knowne that the French increasing every day more and more in Montferrat gave out they would by force of Armes march into the State of Parma Whereat they being much troubled for that enterprise being accompanied with the diversion which they might have on the Piacenzan side would very much molest them generall consultations being had in Pavia between the Duke D'Alcala Leganes Mello and
his most Catholique Majestie had with just reasons tane up Armes against that Kingdome not out of any intention to bereave the King of what was his since the Spaniards who have enough of the world and abound in charitie never covet what belongs to another but onely thereby to reduce the King to an universall peace which was so much desired by the Austrians for the welfare of the poore people who are those that at the last are onely indammaged by Warre and to get the States restored which were taken from the Duke of Lorayne and others as also to have satisfaction given to the Queene Mother and to have those Nobles restored to their Estates who were banished the Kingdom not for any fault of theirs but onely for that they would not depend upon his Majesties Ministers of State whom they knew to be no friends to France and in particular upon the Cardinall of Richelieu whom they feared most of all the rest having a genious opposite to the Spaniards and one who knew how the affaires of that Crowne went wherein there would be charitie and no little merit at Gods hands and all the world if those people and Princes could perswade the King to punish those as Traytors who were the cause the Kingdome was so much weakened by assisting strangers This Manifesto being published in France and comming to the Court afforded occasion of laughter to the Lords there who were much taken with the expression of the Spaniards charitie in not coveting what belongs to another they found all this to be but an invention to throw seeds of diââidence betweene the great ones too much inclined to noveltie and to put them in mind how their fore-fathers had strugled with their Kings to doe the like amongst the people who were desirous of quiet and not willing to undergoe new Impositions and in fine that this was but a bait to draw some male-contents over to them by whose meanes they pretended to receive no small benefit Yet was it not of force enough to have any outward operation for the late example of Monmerancy and other great ones of the Conspiracy had sufficiently taught them that the Subject might hope to be borne withall and pardoned for any other fault save that of infidelitie And every one knew very well that if the Crowne of France had consumed sufficient treasure by the government of such Officers yet were they secure from intestine Warres whereby that flourishing Kingdome had so much suffered in former times and which were easie enough to be renewed againe for every little distaste taken by a French Prince was sufficient to subvert whole Provinces so as it was better to indure some Taxations then to be exposed to the insolencies of a friend and violence of an enemy Moreover they saw a Dukedome of Lorayne joyned unto the Crowne the reveneues whereof did farre exceed all the expences they had beene at together with so many other Cities in Alsatia and in Italy where formerly they had not one foot of ground the maintaining whereof did keepe the Enemies of the Crowne in continuall suspition and afforded them meanes of thinking upon other enterprises and of helping upon all occasions such as were friends to France when they should be incombred by their Enemies The French having possest themselves of the seat of Panperduto and made their Trenches there in the open Fields which gave them no small hopes of further advancement and knowing that without any more adoe they should bring Milan into great streights for want of Victualls if carrying their Forces aside the great Lake they should cut from them those Provisions which were thereby brought unto the Citie they resolved upon the taking of Arona a Towne upon the Tessine in the mouth of the said Lake which would make them to perfect their designe They therefore marched with part of their Forces thetherwards but were not proserous in the attempt for all the neighbouring people taking up Armes together with others under the command of Count Iulius Caesar Borromeo they were saluted with many Cannon shot from divers places which were held by the Milanois on those Hills so as it behoved them to retreat that they might not dis-joint their Army which kept about Panperduto expecting the event of that enterprise by the benefit whereof they designed to marke where they might have greatest hopes of advantage But these proceedings were not well interpreted by those of Milan which made them murmur and complaine of the Spaniards for that they had assembled so many men together kept them so long in that State to the so great incommoditie and losse of so many people whom they had not courage to defend now that they stood in need of their helpe At which the Spaniards being much galled who fore-saw the apparent danger that over-hung them if they should make any further delay they resolved to alter their determination of keeping themselves in strong holds so to reduce the French to a scarcitie of Victualls and into a condition of receiving some great overthrow and propounded that content might be given to the Milanois by their undertaking some generous action whereby the others minds which were so farre sunck in dispaire might be somewhat comforted Leganes therefore on the 22th of Iune went from Biagras where he mustred his Army which the Militia of the Countrey being therein comprehended consisted of 15000 Foot and about 4000 Horse he was accompanied by Don Francisco di Melo Marquis Spinola and many other chiefe Commanders and in a grave and sober march he advanced in good order towards the French Army which kept in battell array within their Trenches but it being somewhat late there onely past an ordinary skirmish betweene the Horse of both parties which lasted almost all the night with little losse to either side for the Spaniards went warily to worke that they might not be brought upon disadvantage and the French attended some fitting occasion to charge them upon advantage so as the meane while the night came on which stickled the businesse Leganes notwithstanding knowing very well the Enemies condition and finding in his Souldiers a great desire to fight appeared the next morning at Sun-rising in good order before the French who kept themselves in battell array within their Trenches and going boldly on with the Spaniish and Dutch Foot against the Trenches the French though they did valiantly defend themselves and withstand their Enemies who fought very couragiously yet could they not keep one of their Foot battaglions from being routed which was charged by the Neapolitan Horse for the French Horse which were on the left wing towards the Ditch of Panperduto being playd upon by 3 pieces of the Spaniards Ordnance which were placed upon the edge of the said Ditch and being thereby much indammaged were wheeled about towards La Cassina di Tornavento from whence these Foot receding and others by reason of their feare they retreated towards the River under the shelter of
some baracadoes and of an ambush of 600 Foot which was placed in some little Woods therabouts Then Gambacorta seeing what disorder the French were in who forsooke their Trenches cry'd out Victory Victory and giving forward in the head of the Horse being scandalized at some words which Leganes said unto him whilst he disswaded him for setting upon the French within their Trenches who mocked them as if the forbearance thereof proceeded from feare he with two other of his men leapt into the Trenches and would certainly have given a great blow to the French if the rest of the Horse could have immediately have leapt in after him but the Duke of Savoy being this meane while advanced from Oleggio upbraided the French Souldiers and Commanders with pusillanimitie rallyed them together and incouraged them made them face about and keepe their Trenches whereupon returning from all parts to their former stations and by their continuall showers of Musquet-shot gaining ground Gambacorta like a brave Commander with his Sword in his hand purchasing immortall glory was slain with a Musquet Bullet Here was the fight begun again by the Spaniards Dutch and Italians and the French being re-inforced by the Savoyards did no lesse returne to defend their Trenches and upheld the skirmish which was made by the Horse of both sides neere La Cassina but at length all the Commanders behaving themselves circumspectly that they might not hazard the losse of a Battell the night came on and Leganes finding that his men grew weary by reason of their continued labour and that his Horse suffered much for want of water thought it fitting to forbear further fighting and keeping all night in the field within the sight of the French that hee might shew no signe of fearâ hee in good orden retreated to Biagras and the neighbouring Townes having luckily susteined the on-set which Colonell Monte of Verona made upon his Rear who was then Commissary-generall of the Savoyards Horse The Duke of Savoyes Men did upon this occasion so valiantly behave themselves that most men are of opinion had it not been for them the French Army had been utterly ruined In this action there were slaine of both sides about 3000 Souldiers All the Spanish and Italian Commanders behaved themselves singularly well and were exceedingly grieved at the losse of Gambacorta as were the Savoyards at the like of Toiras Gambacorta was a Gentleman who very well understood the affairs of Warre a Neapolitan by birth not degenerating in his behaviour and proceedings from that civility for which his counââey is so famous he was facetious and affable with the Souldier and more generous then usuall his many services in Flanders Germany and other places and the imployments which he worthily discharged for his King witnessed his fidelity and great desire to shew himselfe a worthy servant to his Majesty all his thoughts were onely bent upon his Prince his good all particular advantage was totally banisht out of his imaginations and exercising his ingenuity and vertue of his mind even to his death hee left an eternall memory to posterity of his imitable actions But such as was the sorrow and displeasure which the Spaniards felt by this misfortune such and no what inferiour to them was the grieâe which the Duke of Savoy and many other Gentlemen exprest for the death of Toiras This man was not onely held for one of the freest swords of France but his wisdome and his experienced understanding in affaires of Warre was by all admired which had brought him to the degree of Marshall of France and afterwards to the defence of Cassalle a Fort which of how much greater reflection and concernment it was to the King of France and all the Princes of Italy the more was his honour in having the charge thereof given him and his capacity thereby approved and which was by him with so much glory preserved as he might boast to have captivated not onely the affection and good will of his Countrey-men but even of strangers and such as did not know him who professing to be inamored of his valour did by their encomiums exalt him to the height of merit which fortune grants but to few and that onely at the cost of laborious paine Monsieur Toiras was very solid and considerat in his resolutions wise in the executions thereof and vigilant in their mannaging Selfe interest then which there is no contagion more prejudiciall in the officers of Princes he had none Hee made appear unto the world what a worthy Commander and well-deserving servant should be and though by reason of some sinister actions of a Brother of his who sided with the Duke of Orleans for which hee was after punished he was in some contempt or be it but diffidence with the King and had therefore withdrawn himsefe from his service he did not notwithstanding go lesse in the reputation which was held of him the fault of one Brother not being to be imputed to another that hath been found to continue faithfull To returne now unto the Army you must know that when Leganes was retreated from the aforesaid field he disperst his Souldiers into the neighbouring Villages not yet out of sight of the French and there he haulted to refresh and re-inforce his Army that if need should be he might returne againe to fight The French lest they might be too farre ingaged kept in their former Stations within their Trenches and did it upon good grounds for if they could have kept themselves there any long time they would have brought the City of Milan into great danger for lacke of Water and Victuals But they themselves wanting Victuals every day more and more which were tane from them by the Garrisons of Novââa Mortara and other places full of Spaniards who flank't upon them they on the first of Iuly retreated to Castelletto not farre from Sesto a Towne neer the greater Lake and sackt all the neighbouring Townes which put those people into great frights and made them distrust in helpe from the Spaniards for an opinion was spread abroad and it was firmly believed by the people that the Spaniards would not give the French Battaile in open field but be sure to destroy them by temporizing which was knowne to be their best course But the common-people being ignorant of State Interests and hard to be made understand reason though never so apparent did greatly exclaim against and complaine of the Souldiers who had hitherto made great brags and canted it in the Piazzas and in their quarters where they behaved themselves stoutly against the Battery of dishes but occasion now being offered they could not finde the way to defend those to whom they were so much beholding yet all this was but a tale for they did wisely to preserve their men together which they had beene at so great costs in assembling on the losse whereof depended the ruine of the State of Milan and by entertaining the first brunt of the French
Foot and 3000 Horse besides Voluntiers and the Nobilitie of Normandy which were to come with him and having declared his Brother the Duke of Orleans to be the Generall of his Forces made all the Army march under his Highnesse conduct towards Picardy to recover the places that were lost to drive the Spaniards thence Who hearing of these great preparations which were made throughout all France and fearing what they might doe had fired the Countrey all about 'T was said they did this to incommodiate the French in Forrage and Victualls and to streighten them so as they might not be able to keepe long in the Field Piccolomini together with Wert retired to Noyon the rest of the Spanish Army intrenched themselves about Corbie the preservation whereof was much endeavoured by the Austrians for this Towne was so situated as that by any reasonable Garrison therein part of France might be kept in continuall jealousies The Duke of Orleans being advanced unto the Frontiers made his first attempt against Roye a Towne between Noion and Corbie against which having planted his Cannon and the defendants having indured some assaults they compounded knowing themselves not able there to resist a Royall Army and the Spaniards and Dutch finding that their longer stay in those Confines would be but a losse of time and men whereof they daily lost many in skirmishes and as they went to fetch Forrage they drew towards Cambrai leaving about 3000 Foot and 300 Horse in Corbie But the French having taken Roye did lose no time but furiously beset Corbie and after having playd upon it many dayes with their Cannon they assaulted it with a battalion of Voluntiers who with their Pikes and Musquets desirous to have the honour of making the first assault as in such cases is usuall with those of that Nation stormed all the Trenches and Fortifications that were about it so as those within the Town being set on on all sides and playd upon by 36 piece of Cannon which without intermission day and night battered their Rampiers and beat downe their houses though with much undauntednesse they tended their defence yet were they in great danger of losing the Towne the losse whereof much grieving the Spaniards they caused Piccolomini and Wert to come from Chapelle whether they were gone from Noyon and to furnish Cambrai with all things necessary with intention to make the French rise from before Corbie by their setting upon Dorlens a place of no lesse importance seated in the Frontier of Artois betweene Amiens and Arras they therefore sate downe before it and began to thunder upon it with their Cannon but this their enterprise lasted not long for the King of France being come himselfe in Person to Amiens where hee was gladsomely received and the Count Soisons going from thence with a good strength of men into Artoise Corbie being in great streights they were inforced to quit Dorlens and to bethinke themselves how they might best relieve Corbie but having sent some Spies into the French Camp that they might be informed in what state the French Army was and these being discovered and punished they saw their designe was vaine and so forwent it Whereupon the besieged seeing their succour vanished and that the French did every day increase in their offending them they capitulated on the 18th of November and surrendred the Fort to the French who with great content with the universall applause of Monsieur the Kings Brother entred the Towne At which it was said the King was not well pleased and that therefore withdrawing him from so great an Authority he became more wary in conferring imployments in the Army upon him for it is not good to make those Princes Commanders of the Militia who are neer in succession to the Crowne since by winning the Souldiers love they prove oft-times harmfull The Spaniards on the contrary side had assembled together an Army of about 10000 Foot and 1500 Horse in Novara under the command of the Admirall of Castile intending to invade France therewithall where if they should finde no insurrection amongst the people as they hoped by reason of the naturall inquietude of that Nation to do the undertaking was notwithstanding advantagious that thereby they might divert the French Forces from their hostility against the States of Austria They therefore entred into the nether Novara took Saint Iohn de Lus and besieged Bayon making many incursions into the King of France his Dominions wherefore many Companies of Foot and Horse were forthwith dispatcht away thitherward to re-inforce Count Gramont the Governour of Bear who already with those Forces he had opposed them Whilest the Spaniards grew every day stronger in the State of Milan by people who continually landed in the Port of Vado from Napells and by the Dutch who came downe by Helvetia and who forbare not their hostility with the Duke of Parma The French who kept themselves quiet not doing any thing afforded matter of thought not onely to the Spaniards but to all Italy every one being desirous to see what the issue would be of the succour which was though requisit for the State of Parma and so much the rather for that a great fleet of theirs being put to Sea from Marseilles with a great many of Foot therein for Land-service was now in the Genuan Seas Some said the reason hereof was their want of Forces others that they expected what the effect of the fleet at Sea would bee and waited to see the men landed that were therein brought which report did much comfort those of Parma who were brought into great streights and which were so much the greater by how much the lesse will they had to Warre and onely hoped in succour from France it being reported that the fleet came to this purpose for there was no appearance that the Country of Piacenza should be succoured by Crequies Souldiers were it either for that they wanted their pay or for that their numbers were lessened or out of their no desire to remove from their quarters wherein they kept complaning rather of their ill-entertainment in Italy then that they were not imployed in the State of Milan as they were by their Commanders fed with hopes they should bee before they came out of France that so they might the easier bring them on this side the Mountaines Leganes this meane while being come from about Pavia to Tortona and having reviewed the neighbouring Townes and places in Allessandria and provided for such passages as might be put for by those Forces which were in the fleet which was said intended to land its Souldiers in the Haven of Specie that from thence they might bee transported into the State of Parma returned into the Piacenzan Territories to attend the businesse of Piacenza and secure himselfe in such sort thereabouts that in case the succour should come which yet was knowne by the best understanding people to be impossible they should not be able to force
part of Christendome THE XIII BOOK The Contents of the Thirteenth Book Peace is concluded betweene Parma and Spaine by the interposition of the great Duke of Tuscany The French goe out of Piacenza and the Spaniards withdraw their Forces from those Territories This accommodation is ill understood by the French Count Fabio Scotti is imprisoned in France What the French-men did hereupon Duke Waymer enters Burgondy and forceth Gallasse to retire He enters Alsatia and takes Rinfield Bannier being recruited with men makes towards the Saxons The Emperour Ferdinand the second dyes and his Son Ferdinand the third succeeds him in the Empire The Grisons drive the French out of the Valteline and Rhetia The Saxons joyne with the Imperialists and oppose the Swedes a great Battell ensues Azfelt is routed the Saxons make head againe and repulse the Swedes The Spaniards proceed on in Lombardy Hermesteine is besieged by the Imperialists and succour'd by the Swedes by Stratagem The French land in Sardinnia but to no purpose They take the Islands of S. Marguerit and S. Honore Expediences used by the new Emperour for the good government of the Empire A League treated on betweene the Grisons and Spaniards The French invade Flanders on one side and the Hollanders on another Breda is besieged by the Prince of Orange Hermesteine is yeelded to the Imperialists John de Wert goes to take in Hannaw Waymer intends to succour it but is denyed passage by those of Strasburg Gallasse comes in to the succour of the Saxons therefore the Swedes retreat Hannaw is taken by intelligence or correspondency The Swedes retreat into the Old Towne and compound with the Imperialists THe good newes of the King of the Romans Creation being speedily brought to Milan as it was cause of extraordinary contentment in the King of Spaines Ministers of State in the Commanders Souldiers and all the people who by all sorts of apparent Iubilies witnessed by their Feasts Justings Ridings and other extraordinary signes of joy no lesse then had been observed in other places and as hath beene said the honour and satisfaction that they received thereby so was it interpreted as an happy augure of the ensuing yeare and pronounced as a favourable presage of good fortune to the Forces of his most Catholique Majestie and it was not long ere the effects proved it to be so For the great Duke of Tuscany wisely fore-seeing the Duke of Parma's ruine if he should continue his union with France from whence succour would prove desperate as well by reason of the farre distance thereof and their want of men as also of the causes which made for the interests of the French whom it became not though they had had a greater strength of men to imploy them in a wasted Countrey in the midst of their Enemies without money or requisite Provisions for Warre the issue whereof would have beene that the greater part of their Souldiers naturally impatient of suffering and desirous of chance would have runne away into the State of Mantua the Churches dominions and into the State of Venice and thus weaken the Ensignes of France and bring them to hard bargaine And his Highnesse seeing the Spaniards continued with great gallantry to strengthen Piacenza which could not hold out much longer without reliefe and being lost would not so easily be redeemed especially the Citadell to keepe the which the Spaniards would not want valide reasons and faire pretences The great Duke being likewise not pleased that his Kinsman should be bereaved of his patrimony nor yet that the Spaniard should inlarge his dominions in Italy he sent more strict Commission to Pandolphini that he should goe againe to Piacenza and make the Duke see how palpable the danger was that over-hung him and exhort him to make an accommodation with the Spaniards with whom if Parma would give him leave he the great Duke would Treat and make an agreement which should be to his advantage The Pope likewise who was troubled that that Citie should be lost for that it held of the Church ordered Count Carpegna to acquaint the Duke how his Holinesse not intending that the fee-Farme-Lands of the Church should be further ruinated wisht him to thinke of compounding the businesse he likewise commanded Carpegna to shew the Duke how little hopes there was succour and of the performance of the Frenchmens promise as he might daily see by the effects for though they promised to doe wonders so to keepe him in league yet their actions did in no wayes correspond with their words They at last made him comply with the counsell given him by the Pope and the great Duke whereupon after many negotiations in the beginning of February the businesse was adjusted wherein the Duke of Parma was much obliged to the great Duke who upon this occasion shewed himselfe to be his very good Friend and Kinsman The French were brought out of the Towne under pretence of being mustered the Duke unexpectedly began to complaine to Monsieur De S. Paule of the negligence of his Kings Officers in sending him his due and promised succour and to shew him how faithfully he had behaved himselfe in the behalfe of France which being done he dismist all the French out of Piacenza as also out of Parma and all other parts of his dominions and sent them to their owne homes at which they very much repined thinking themselves to be abused though the Duke had alwayes behaved himselfe ingenuously and done all that by his new friendship he was bound to doe for it is alwayes lawfull for Princes to change their Copy when their States are at the stake All the Princes of Italy were greatly pleased with this accommodation for by such ruptures great troubles were likely to have risen in Italy and now the Forces withdrawing themselves towards Piemont the other Provinces were at quiet and their peace was the more firmely established by the weakning of the two Crownes it being the opinion of wisemen that other Potentates ought to indeavour the keeping of these two great Kings at oddes with equalitie of successe to the end that being intent to Warre within themselves they may not fall to prejudice lesse powerfull Princes The Spaniards notwithstanding who proceed leisurely and wait patiently for occasions which being by them opportunely layd hold on brings them usually no little advantage did inwardly like well enough of this accommodation for here their jealousies being buried by the laying downe of Armes and consequently by their disbanding their companies increasing and their confining neighbours growing weaker by the want of those Souldiers they with much contentment fore-saw that if Fortune should favour them against the French they should be able to inlarge the limits of the State of Milan and to secure themselves from Forreigne invasion for unarmed Princes not being able on the sudden to poise up the ballance which panched a little downewards in the declination of the French partie they were confident to bring their
such a diversion might easily much advantage themselves and totally confound that State but such considerations proceeding from Rohans passion who impatient to live idlely after so many Victories and so great a renowne was by his valour and animositie incited to the contrary were not approved of For Waymer had occasion enough to imploy himselfe in Alsatia the getting whereof was of greater importance to the French then was the Valteline not engaging himselfe among the unpassable Mountains of Rhetia for if he should once set upon them besides the difficulties of bringing Cannon Ammunition and the streightnesse of passage the Spaniards under pretence of assisting the Grisons might get footing there which would rather be the way to effect the Austrians ends then to satisfie the French-mens aimes But Rohan still continuing his anger against the Grisons having grievously complained of them to the Switzers of Zurick and to every one that he spake withall he gave out that going blindly to work they themselves did hammer out a Chain wherewith afterwards they should find themselves fastened to the Spaniards will To which purpose I will not omit the extract of a Letter written by the said Rohan from Zurick to an Italian Gentleman the contents whereof were I Very well remember what you told me as you went for Coira touching the bent of the discourse which those Grison Colonells held in the poynt of their dexteritie with our Nation I have found the words true by the effects nothing else could be expected from them who having totally given themselves over to their owne interest have beene able by the vizard of publique reason to disguise the monster of unwarinesse and make it appeare wisedome The Grisons shall in time know what it is to distrust those who that they might trust them have vindicated their liberties By how many more the Flowers shall be in the Spring of this Spanish friendship so much lesse shall be the fruit which they shall gather in the Autumne of this their folly Every one desires the King my Masters Forces but none lookes upon them with a sincere eye They might have forborne to have kindled this fire which into how great a flame it will burst out is not yet certaine If my King not well pleased with the contrary events to what he expected in Italy shall with-draw his invincible Forces from thence that he may dispose them elsewhere more for the advantage of his Crowne it will then be seene whether the Spaniards having throwne off their perfumed Gloves with which they temper or stifle the smell of those that side with them or draw neere them have hands of the same odour as they seeme to have Time will be the judge of this affaire and will peradventure give sentence against those who will repent that they have repented their friendship with Francâ The Spaniards being greatly inheartned by the taking of Ponzone and the certaintie of tâe French-mens weake preparations and very much strengthned by new recruits from Naples Spaine and Germany Leganes thought it became not the honour of the Spanish Forces to lye idle whilest they were by their good successe invited to further enterprises Whereupon he resolved to proceed and because Nizza Della Paglia a Towne in Montferrat invironed with no contemptible Walls and Towers was a businesse though of some difficultie yet of no little advantage for that the entrance into Monferrat was thereby opened and thereby way was made for the winning of other Townes at leisure which being had prepared them for the taking of Cassalle a strength of mightie consequence and which being like a thorne in the side of the State of Milan all the designes ends and industry of the Spanish Commanders and State-Ministers were bent against it the Austrians not being able to indure that such a Citie should remaine in the hands of the French they brought their Army before the said Nizza and so fiercely beset it as that those of Piemont who guarded it being at the very first filled with fear and confusion and despairing of being able to maintaine it they chose rather to accept of Articles of agreement then to runne the hazard of defending it The Garrison marched out with their Armes and Baggage and retired to Cassalle to the no little resentment of the French who blaming the Governour thereof for his distrust of succour tooke it ill that the Duke of Savoy did not punish him by way of example to others The Spaniards having left some Souldiers to defend this place divided their Army into two parts with the one of which Leganes came before Alba a Citie of Montferrat and with the other Don Martine d' Aragona went to the taking in of Agliano a Fort by reason of its situation and in respect of the present times of great importance And the Spaniards knowing of what consequence Nizza was in these present emergencies they resolved to keepe it and began to fortifie there and by the taking thereof the Garrisons of Montegrosso and Castiole being of no use they tooke them away And the Passe at Finale in the State of Milan being of mighty consideration the Spaniards that they might the better secure it sent the Regiments of the Princes Reignold and Borso from Este into the Langhe that they might there watch over the proceedings of the French over whom Crequi after his desires thrice to the contrary had his Commission of command renewed He therefore made all possible preparations to drive back the Spaniards into the State of Milan and Leganes rising without any fruit from before Alba went to Annone and on the third of Iuly past back again with his Army on this side Tanare upon a Bridge which he threw over at Croce Bianca two miles distant from Asti with intention to surprise that Towne whereat the Savoyards tooke such an Allarme as fearing what might succeed Marquis Villa came with 4000 Foot and 500 Horse into Asti to defend it in case the Spaniards should attempt the taking thereof and to fortifie Alba the preservation whereof made much for the Duke of Savoy so as the Armies of both sides being so neere continuall skirmishes past betweene the Horse which was all that was done A reciprocall and affectionate correspondency was now more then ever held betweene the Crowne of France and the States of the United Provinces of Holland and in this present conjuncture their closest intelligence tended to the lessening of the Spanish greatnesse wherefore their intentions were that the one of them should set upon Flanders on one part whilest the other did the like in another part that so they might divert the Spanish Forces and consequently make their other resolved on enterprises lesse difficult The Prince of Orenge went therefore unexpectly forth with many Boats which were provided at Dordrech in Holland and having imbarqued many Souldiers therein he made towards Flushing and from thence comming privatly to shore upon the strond of the Marish which lies between Sluce and the
indispositions were such as was his for besides the Cough of the Lungs he was of a very weake Complexion The Spaniards likewise much resented the death of this Prince for he being a great Polititian and one who desired to keepe faire with the French to the end that they might permit him quietly to enjoy his owne State but with no intention that they should get further footing in Italy many were of opinion that he held secret intelligence with the Spaniards and that this was a chiefe cause why the State of Milan was no further indammaged for cloaking the secrets of his mind with outward simulation and appearances he dexterously governed the affaires of Warre as they most conduced to his owne end The Spaniards fearing least upon this occasion the French might be brought into the best Forts of Piemont by the Duches meanes in regard of the feare she stood in of her Subjects who were not well inclined to the French and that that State should no more in effect belong to the house of Savoy but onely in outward shew so as they losing the hopes they had therein as the Trench which divides Italy from France they must be inforced to keepe Forces continually on Foot in the State of Milan to defend it from the incursions of the French their contiguous neighbours The Spaniards being much moved for the said reasons sent speedy advertisement of this accident to Spaine Flanders and Germany and did moreover give out That the Duke was poysoned by Crequi his procurement that by such a report they might the more incense his subjects against the French who never departing from those Towns as at first they did began to be very burthensome to the Inhabitants The Marquis Leganes and the other State-Ministers of Spaine advised what they were to doe upon the present emergency at last this being acknowledged to be a wound which if it were suffered to runne on and grow worse all remedies that could be apply'd thereunto hereafter would prove vaine they all agreed in a joynt opinion that they were to doe their utmost as well by force of Armes as cunning and industry in using such meanes as should be most opportune for them without losse of time and whilst by the Dukes death all Piemont was in a confusion and whilst the French had not yet thought of establishing any government there though the French that were in Italy sought rather how they might get into the strong holds of Piemont then into those of Milan By command from Leganes all they that were in Comasco went into the Countrey of Allessandria where the Spaniards hearing that the French Fleet was discovered in the Mediterranian over against Italy and fearing lest landing their men they might attempt some enterprize Don Martin of Aragon and Don Iohn de Garray were sent with some Souldiers into the Lang he to looke to any incursion the French might make on that part but the Spaniards march being discovered by the French who were quartered in Montferrat towards that side they came forth against them and fought with them in the Lang he where the French who were more in number then the Spaniards prevailing Don Martin was necessitated to retreat into the Territories of Allessandria with the losse of 400 of his men The Austrians this meane while understanding that those of Piement being much opprest by the French who treated them as Subjects would willingly imbrace any occasion whereby they might drive them out did cheerfully consent that the Cardinall of Savoy should come into Piemont who was then at Rome conceiving that if he were introduced and admitted to the government of that State who was a friend to Spaine and a very understanding Prince he would have a care to preserve his Nephewes authoritie would have an eye to the sinister proceedings of the French and that being upon all occasions fomented by the Spaniards it would not be hard for him to make them forgoe their quarters in Piemont especially since the Spaniards were growne stronger and the French weaker By nourishing the Warre in Piemont the Spaniards kept the evills thereof from out their owne Territories and which was of greater importance by putting enmitie betweene the Savoyards and French to boot with the increase of Forces of the one and decrease of the others they hoped by driving the French out of Italy to become Masters themselves of the chiefe strengths of Piemont and consequently keepe the Princes thereof at their beck so as if they could have secured themselves from the power of France on this side they certainly would have become very dreadfull to all the rest of Italy To this purpose the Cardinall parted speedily from Rome and came to the State of Genua upon the Confines of Piemont where he found himselfe deceived in his opinion for the French protested to the Duchesse that if she should bring her Brother in law into Piemont they would turne their Forces against her State The Duchesse was therefore inforced to signifie unto him that he should forbeare comming further for she would by no meanes receive him then she her selfe being sufficient to take upon her the government of her Sonne and that so it was her Husbands will she should doe This answer was very bitter to the Cardinall as he witnessed by his sharpe rescenting thereof the rather for that he very well fore-saw the eminent dangers which threatned that State which in other times had beene the Theater of Italies greatnesse in so much as he declared That by the Fundamentall Laws of that State he was to take upon him the administration of the government that his Brothers will was voyd and invalid and that the Statutes of that Dukedome were unalterable which containe that if the Duke dye and leave his Children Orphans the Princes of the Blood be admitted to the government both of the State and them But as no reason is of validitie with those that will not be governed thereby and when there wants sufficient force to compell obedience the Cardinalls pretensions were not allowed of but his Sister in Law sent him word againe willing him to returne to Rome from whence he came And the French fearing that since the Cardinall could not prevaile by his perswasions for admission he would indeavour to effect his desires by the force of Spaine which were all already brought upon those Frontiers and had caused no little suspitions Crequi having now to his no small contentment the sole supreame command of all the Forces in Italy for it is usuall with great men not well to brooke an equall or superior in authoritie thinking that he should now be able to doe some great matter in Italy went with his Army from Montferrat to Poma a Castle betweene Valenza and Casalle neere the River Roaldo guarded by 200 Spaniards who not able to defend themselves forsooke it when they heard of the French mens approach and causing a Bridge to be throwne over the River Poe on the side of Brem
gave out that he would quarter his whole Army that Winter in the State of Milan but these words tooke not effect for Leganes having brought the greatest part of his Army about Valenza the Marshall altered his mind and returned to Winter in his former quarters of Piemont and Montferrat Whereby the Spaniards finding it an easie matter to take Brem they had many reasons to goe about it before they should betake themselves to their Winter quarters and before the French should receive more recruits from France But the season proved afterwards so exceeding wet and the wayes so deepe as they could not without much incommoditie march with their Cannon wherefore upon better advice Leganes resolved to leave garrisons on the Frontiers particularly in Lumello and Carasona whose fortifications were not yet perfected and disperse his Army in the Townes of that state with intention to appeare in the Spring with greater numbers in the field and doe that which though it was deferred was not forgotten The face of affaires was changed in Lombardy by the death of Victorios Amadreo Duke of Savoy as also by the decease of Charles Duke of Mantua who died a little before the other on the 21th of September For Charles having left his Grandchild very young and his sonnes Wife Mary Governesse of her sonne till he should come to bee 18 yeares old 't was foreseen that from hence alteration would proceed for the wiser sort were of opinion that the Princesse was of another genius then was Charles who could not forget his affection to the French and that the greater part of the Mantoans being Leaguniosised and not onely naturally small friends to Forrainers but much exasperated against those whom they termed the cause of their ruine they might easily perswade the young lady to keep faire correspondency with the Spaniard under whom they thought themselves to be bettered when indeed they were by so much more impaired by how much a King of Spaine is greater then a Duke of Mantua at which the French who through Charles his unadvisednesse were now in the best Townes of Montferrat taking offence some adverse accident might fall out Others said the Duchesse being but young and much solicited by her mother Marguerit of Savoy and the Empresse Ellinor she might perhaps listen to a new marriage And that when the Infante of Spaine could get footing in Mantua and in the right of the young Lady lawfully keep what he had gotten in Montferrat hee would willingly yeeld to marry her and that the Princesse would not be unwilling to better her condition in these present emergencies from whence great troubles must needs arise for if the Spaniards should once get into Mantua and the Citadell of Casalle there was no hope though they might intend to restore the state to the lawfull heire that ever they would take their garrisons out of such important places Whereupon every Potentate apprehending the Spaniards greatnesse they would prepare to obviat what might prove prejudiciall to them and so those poore Countries would bee the Scaene of Warre Some notwithstanding replied to the discourse touching this marriage with reasons not improbable to wit that it would hardly be affected for that the Princesse being esteemed to be fruitfull it did not comply with the Spaniards that their Kings brother should have children out of the reason of State of keeping the government in one onely and that therefore when they should thinke upon a match for him they were to provide a Wife that were barren and on the other side they aswell saw that if the Mantuans should keep constant to the French they should not onely be treated by them as subjects and the Duke of Mantua's Authority be assubjected to the pleasure of France but which was of greater consideration if the Spaniards could not beare that the French Forces should bee in Cassalle they would consequently never be contented till they were removed from thence So as the Warre hapning in an Orphans state his subjects were likely to prove the mischiefes thereof although others reflecting hereupon and who were not of opinion that this made for the Duke did probably maintaine that Warre was little or nothing troublesome to those who were therein brought up and that both parties being desirous to keep that warlike people well affected to them they should be gently proceeded with by them both and being well treated they might consequently by making the best of their affaires expect more profit from Warre then from Peace But it was not long ere the effects of such cogitations began to shew themselves For the Princesse taking upon her the government of her sonne and being more addicted to the Italian gravity then to the French freedome seemed little satisfied with the proceedings of the French and in particular she seemed not to be well pleased with Monsieur de Torre who commanded under Charles as generall of all his Forces for he not able to submit the French liberty to the moderation of Italy had by his affability won the good will of many and almost got all the Nobility of Mantua to follow his Capricioes so as basterdizing the customes of Mantua with the mode of France his actions were no wayes pleasing to the Princes nor yet to others who knew it was not fit to introduce such a noveltie So as aswell to free her selfe from such a spectacle as also to injoy that soveraignty which became her and which was by this man through his Kings authority in some sort moderated as also that by so doing she might partly shew the Spaniards her Mother and her Aunt that she was independant as concerning France and for other reasons the Princesse so behaved her selfe as she made Monsieur de Torre depart from Mantua who going to Venice and from thence being sent for into Montferrat the superintendency of Cassalle was committed to his charge and the French by these demonstrations growing jealous of the Princesse and her Ministers of state they fell to such resolutions in Casall as shall hereafter be mentioned But to returne to the Duke he was well enough composed in the parts of his body and no lesse inriched in those of his minde for to boot with a generall knowledge he was easily appeased and governed by reason his being borne and bred up in France was the cause why he as all others who naturally affect their owne Country taken with the courteous behaviour of the French Nobility by the good entertainment he partook of at the Court and by addition of his naturall clymat could not when he was transplanted into Italy overcome his nature by art so as rather then to forgoe his affection to France he incurr'd the anger of Spaine and submitted his state to the discretion of their Forces which peradventure hee might have shunn'd and would have been more advantagious to him then Warre if with the change of soyle hee could have changed that genius which made him beare so great an inclination
should have lost in Germany the more easily for the Dutch weary of the sprightly conversation of the French would be readily disposed to remit themselves to their own more flegmatick society so as the French being on all sides shut up within their Kingdome the way would be open for the Spaniards to obtaine their coveted ends To these interests were added the Spaniards naturall inclination to the clymat of Italy because that this more complying with their complexions then any other they more willingly came hither then to any other part where to boot with the wholsomenesse of the aire and the bettering of their condition they much valued the respect that was shewed unto them and the affection wherewithall they were received For the Italians being naturally courteous discreet and punctually gentile not being able to withdraw themselves from the government of Forrainers and of two evils the lesser being to be chosen doe more willingly succumbe to the Spanish nation then to any other for that by their civill and courteous proceedings and by the hopes of honour and greatnesse of which they are aboundantly lavish in all professions to those they know fit for it and whose good will they desire to win that they may thereby oblige the Nobility make their subjects obedient and their Empire tollerable they are better borne withall then are any other Forrainers To this may be added that the French not using to impart any of their greatnesse in France to Italians where they are not suffered by the French to have any great Commands and the French not possessing any states in Italy wherewithall to satisfie them there it hence ensues that the hopes being greater which are grounded upon the Spaniards then upon the French many who are governed by their selfe-interests are more affectionat to Spaine then to France So as all these reasons being put together they are sufficient to gainsay any opposition that may be made by other maximes Others also would not forbeare to say that the Spaniards had alwayes their thoughts more bent upon Italy when they fared worst elsewhere for it was supposed they might hope whilst their Armies were put to the worst elsewhere the other Italian Princes growing thereby confident would not so easily apprehend their preparations in Lombardy so that the hopes that they would not put for any novelty in Italy whilst they were ingaged elsewhere afforded them time and meanes by which they might afterwards onely tend their increase of greatnesse in Italy Crequi being advertised of Leganes military preparations and suspecting that the Spaniards designes might bee upon Rossegnano Moncalvo and Pontestura as places which would much facilitate the taking of Cassall hee tooke his men from their quarters in Piemont and Montferrat and went to the Frontier intending to disturbe the Spaniards He never imagined that the Spaniards without greater Forces or Provisions would have dreamt upon the taking of Brem it being a Fort Royall and very well seated and which might very well hold any Army how great soever play for some time there was therefore little appearance Leganes could doe any good before it and the rather for that it might be easily succoured by the French Army or they might greatly incommodiat the Spaniards by cutting off their Victuals but it proved cleane otherwise for to boot that the Garrison within were not well paid by the King Mongagliard who was governour there had brought in some French Merchants thither who by their negotiations had already erected a warehouse of French merchandize in the Fort and that they might have the better vent for their Ware hee permitted any one to come in that would spend his mony Leganes under pretence of buying commodities did by understanding men informe himselfe of the condition of the place and having learnt that by reason of the last Winters Ice a great part of the Rampier was broak down as being only made of Earth and coped with Turfe that moreover the Palisadoe of the ditch was weak that the ruins were not yet repaired that there were but few Souldiers in it and the greatest part of them sick and weak and that all other things that concernd the defence of the Town were but ill-favoredly governed hee thought the taking therof would not be so hard a matter as was imagined by many He therefore unexpectedy appeared before it with his Army 2 houres before day on the eleventh of March where Count Ferrante Bollognino advancing with his Brigade of Foot against a halfe Moone upon the Gate towards the Poe he with no great adoe tooke it Don Girollamo Sottello with the Spanish Foot tooke his station on the neither side Don Iohn Vasques Coronado Governour of Cremona quartered himself with the Lombards on the upper side and the Dutch haulted neere Bologninoes station Here Workes were raysed and approaches made on all sides the Batteries were made and the Fort was playd upon by the Cannon Mongayliard thought to hinder their Works by a gallant salley that he made but at his comming out of the Gate with about 40 Horse himselfe being bravely mounted upon a Daple Gray he was saluted with so thick a haile of Musquet-shot as his Horse being slaine under him and many of his men unhorst he returned back into the Fort upon which the Spaniards Cannon thundring from all sides the defendants began to feare and were greatly afflicted for that they were inforced to supply the duties of the Garrison Duke Crequi who liked not that this place should be lost upon the first newes he heard thereof made some Boats be prepared and furnished with Men Munition and Armes and sent them downe the River on the 14th of the same moneth that they might relieve the Fort. But these being discovered by the Spaniards they handled them so ill as but a few Souldiers got into the Towne Whereupon the Spaniards hoping well to effect their desires they continually built little Forts at proportionable distance and threw a Bridge over the Poe which they fortified on both sides to hinder the French from playing upon Bologninoes quarters Crequi being informed of all that past though he had deferr'd the succour a few dayes intending first to let the Spaniards be a little weakned and consumed and that he himselfe might be the stronger yet fore-seeing that if this place should be lost whilst he looked on to boot with the importance of the Fort it would redound much to his dishonour he resolved to advance and to indeavour by all meanes possible how to relieve it But Fortune which when she will forsake her Favorites takes first from them the use of their understanding and then the like of their body having for many yeares favoured the wisedome of this valiant Captaine now taking from thence that heedfulnesse which keepes it alive Crequi after having seene how unadvised he was in not making necessary Provision for the defence of that Fort contrary to that wisedome which formerly he was indowed withall ranne furiously to
Crabats going before as is their custome light upon some Swedish Companies cut 300 of them in pieces and took about a hundred Carriages of Victuals from them which they were bringing from Wertemberg unto Waymers Army Mongagliards triall who was governour of Brem was now had in Cassall and he being found guilty of high Treason for having abused the Kings pay to the so great prejudice of the King his master and been the cause of the losse of the place by converting it to his owne use hee was adjudged to lose his head which accordingly hee did in the market place of the said Town on the 22th day of Aprill his goods were confiscated and a Pillar erected in the market place to perpetuate the memory of such a Treason and for the example of all such as are governours of any Fort who when occasion shall serve ought rather to chuse death then an ignominious Surrender The end of the fourteenth Book The Warres and other State-Affaires of the best part of Christendome THE XV. BOOK The Contents of the Fifteenth Book The Swedes are much troubled by the Duke of Saxonies continued hostility They summon a Dyet and resolve to continue the Warre in Germany The Cardinall of Valette goes to Piemont to take the Command of the French Forces He makes the Governour of Cassall be beheaded to the great restentment of the Mantuans The Spaniards goe to the taking of Vercelles and effect it The French enter into Biscay take Airon and besiege Fontarabbia The Venetian Fleet fight with 17. Turkish Galleys in the Haven of Vellona and get the Victory Ghets endeavours to succour Brisacke but is routed by Weymar Fifteene Spanish Gallies fight with as many French within sight of Genua and are beaten The Spanyards make great preparations towards Mount-ferrat The young Duke of Savoy Francis Giacinto dyes and much of Novelty iâ occasioned thereby Francis Duke of Modena goes to the Court of Spaine The Dolphine of France is born to the great contentment of all that Kingdome Rupert Prince Palatine of Rhine is routed by Azfelt taken prisoner and carried into Austria Weymar routs some of the Duke of Lorreyns souldiers and takes the little Fort of the Bridge before Brisack The Imperialists require succour for Brisack from the Spanyards in Italy SUch were the preparations for Warre made on all sides by the Austrians and such was the Elector of Saxonies constancy in union with Caesar against the Crowne of Swethland as that the Swedes being thereat confused and no lesse incensed they were frequent in their Counsells and in using all oportune expediences how to prevent that mischiefe which they saw ready to fall upon them and they were much the more troubled for that they saw the Princes of the same Religion ready to fall into the same precipice for they knew that in policy it was not good for that Elector but was repugnant to the reasons of State to suffer the Sweeds to be driven beyond the Sea For by their being Masters of the strong holds in Pomerania a diversion was maintained a counterpoyse which at any time when the Imperiall Power should aime at the absolute Monarchy of Germany would fitly ballance and maintaine the authority of the Electors and of the other Princes of Germany in their vigorous degree for being in the midst between two great ones when one of them should plot to bring them to their subjection they would presently out of state interest be assisted by the other and so being able by the helpe of the one to contend with the other their correspondency would be the more esteemed by their neighbours on the other side The Elector notwithstanding as it oft times fares with those who being mastered by their passions doe sometimes wander out of the right way and especially when their Counsellours being by their owne particular interests made to side with other Princes sooth their Masters in what they are most inclined unto being now as much an enemy and hating the Sweeds as much as he formerly was their friend and shewed himself affectionate to them continuing his spleene and preparing by all meanes to work them mischiefe afforded the Sweedish Ministers of State occasion of thought The Sweeds knew of what consequence the maintaining of their armies in Germany was to the interest of their Kingdome wherein they now having gotten a great repute and their name being grown famous which formerly inclosed in the most remote corners of the North was unknown to other Nations such an augmentation of State was of great consideration the Crowne of Swethland being thereby the more strengthened and they reaping no usuall advantage by the Warres of Germany so as they were not to forgoe such meanes whereby they might proceede how to keep what they had gotten To boote with the publique Interest the Swedes were moved hereunto in regard of their own particulars For by the plunder of those Townes they enriched their owne persons most of them being but of meane fortunes and by their traffique in the Havens of Pomerania and Germany from the like in Swethland they enriched their publike magazines and Ware-houses bettering thereby as well the publique as the private so as so specious an atchievement and which was with so much labour gotten ought to be by all meanes possible preserved The Swedes being moved by these and other greater reasons and understanding how the Saxons strengthened by continuall Austrian recruits pursued Bannier they summoned a Dyet of the States Generall of Swethland wherein the importancy of affairs being maturely discussed it was with joynt consent agreed upon that the War should be continued and to that purpose that a new levy should be made of 12000. Foote and 3000. horse to recruite their Armies and to provide for all things that were necessary for the maintenance thereof The French likewise were not unmindefull to provide for such things as made most for their greatnesse and for the continuation of the Warre And they found there was no more powerfull diversion to weaken the Spanyards Forces in Flanders in Alsatia upon which their thoughts were then wholly bent then by carrying fire home to their owne houses to the end that being intent to quench that they could not so easily runne to extinguish farre-off combustions They found no better way how to overthrow those Councells which being solidly taken in the Court of Spaine do usually produce ingenuous wayes how to get what belongs unto another then by affording them occasion of spending their time in thinking upon their own defence They knew that to boote with keeping the forces of Italy employed in the State of Milaine so as they could not over-run Alsatia it was also not little advantagious to stop the recruites which might from Spaine come into Flanders Italy for the Spanyards were to keep an Armie in their owne Kingdome and that this was one of the most probable courses which could make for the good of the French to wit
and Burgonians betweene the River Sero and the Church of the said Saint Bartholmeo he disposed of the Italians from Saint Bartholmeo to the Monastery of Franciscan Fryers and the Dutch and Grisons extended themselves from the said Monastery to the Sesia and suddenly a great many Trenches Redoubts Workes and Barracadoes being made by Pyoners to withstand the succour which might be endeavoured by the French he began to make his approaches to plant his Cannon against the wals The Marquesse Dogliony who was Governour of the Town in behalfe of the Dutchess of Savoy surprized by the unexpected accident for hee could not believe that the Spaniards would bring their Forces before a Cittadell of the Duke of Savoyes considering the good intelligence which they held with the late Duke no wayes quailed in his courage but prepared according to his due loyalty to defend the place he viewed the men that were to defend it which appeared to bee very few in respect of the Spaniards and of the compasse of the Workes which were to be defended as also the Ammunition to be very short and having acquainted the Dutchesse therewithal by trusty Messengers as also the French Commanders to the end that they might thinke of relieving him hee made a gallant sally annd tooke a sconce neere a Winde-mill about a quarter of a mile from the Towne where hee intended to fortifie that hee might keepe the enemy so farre further from the walls but the Spaniards being aware thereof presently set upon him made him remove with some losse The newes hereof comming to Turim as it was altogether unexpected so was it the more wondred at since it concern'd the setting upon one of the Duke of Savoys Forts which was contrary to that policy according to which it was thought the Spaniards would govern themselves towards his highnesse For the wiser sort of people thought that the Spaniards would never have so far exasperated those of Piemont as to make them call in the French into their strongest places for their defence with whose neighbourhood in Montferrat they were too much troubled They therefore exclaimed against the Spaniards also against the French for that resting secure under their protection they saw little appearance of their safety by reason of the French-mens weak preparations for War which made them not only fear the losse of Vercelles but foresee greater mischief which might ensue to that State so as the French Commanders were strangely netled hereat and in particular the Cardinall of Vallette who was more troubled then all the rest to see the Spaniards advance whilest his Army looked on He chiefely considered his reputation wherein if hee should suffer at this his first entrance into Italy as stones which tumble downe from an high place are hardly stayed and not without much adoe returned to their former place so should he hardly by any ordinary actions recover his reputation when once in the wane which would be a great hinderance to his actions For it is true that States and Armies are oft times more maintained by âredite and reputation then by force wherfore bethinking himselfe how to evade so great a misfortune he applyed himselfe to relieve the Fort. After having by speedy Messengers signified the present state of affaires to the Court and demanded a recruit of men and moneys from the King hee mustered all the Forces that were quartered in Piemont and Mountferrat and drawing thereout as many men as with safety to the strong holds he could hee came betweene Santia and St. German to watch how he might convoy fitting succour into Verocelles Which when Leganes knew who would not be diverted from the siege wherein as well his owne honour as the honour of his Masters Army was concerned he feared lest the men he had brought along with him might not be sufficient to withstand the French to secure himself therefore from them he solicited the comming of the Dutch who were continually taken into pay for the King of Spaines service and the imbarquing of the Neopolitans moreover he drew forth the former Garrisons from out of all Forts and supplyed their places with fresh men of the countrey and by these meanes as also by continuall making of works and Trenches hee prepared to frustrate the endeavours of the French Opposite to the good success of the Spaniard in Lombardy Gallas his men who were quartered in Brunswicke and Alberstat were as unfortunate for to boote with their Armies being much diminished through the running away and death of their souldiers Gallas could not goe upon any service as well for that the Countrey was wholly consumed so as it was not possible for him to keepe longer in those parts as also for want of moneyes without the which the Armie not being to be contented 't would be but in vaine to bring them before an Armie re-inforced by many troopes of Souldiers newly landed in Pomerania for by so doing the greater part of the Souldiery which began already to mutiny would have acted their threats which they forbore not to make without any respect either to their Commander or to Caesar himself Wherefore Bannier growing hereby bold much more encouraged by a great recruit of men money and Ammunition which was landed in the Island of Vsedon knowing himselfe able during these troubles of the Emperours Army to effect some-what of importance he tooke Garts and Vermond and advancing towards Saxony wherewith the Souldiers were well pleased by reason of their hatred to that Elector hee caused great feare in those people who greatly valuing the Sweedish Forces fearing lest their proceedings might bee answerable to their feares Yet did not the Electors councel faile in making necessary provisions they doubled the Guards in all places of chiefest importance they mustered their Army together with the Militia of the Country and sent their earnest desires to the Court of Vienna for their promised assistance The Hollanders knowing that the march of the French Armie composed of gallant Souldiers was an excellent diversion to keep those Forces busied in those parts which might oppose their proceedings and probably perswading themselves that during these the Spaniards molestations they might doe some notable act they resolved to march into the Field and try whether or no Fortune would smile upon them in the enterprize of Antwerp which was the most considerable thing they could undertake having therefore mustered their men part about Nimminghen the chiefe City of Ghelders upon the wall and part about Breda they seemed as if their intentions were upon Gheldern that they might draw the Spanish forces thither-ward and imbarquing many of their men at Dorditch under the Command of Count William of Nassaw a Gentleman of great experience they unexpectedly fell upon the Fort Callo neare the Schelde a League and a halfe from Antwerpe and setting upon it with Petars and sâaling Ladders by night on the fourteenth of Iune they luckily tooke it and put the Garrison to the sword
the Ottoman and mannaging all these affaires to their best advantage Signieur Luigi Contarini a Gentleman much verst in the affaires of Princes and who had purchast much glory in passing through all those first Embassies conferred by his Country did so stoutly behave himselfe with so much zeale to his Common-wealth that at last to the universall content of Christendome and to the great honour of the Common-wealth and her Agents the differences were agreed and the former Article betweene the grand Signieur and the State of Venice again ratified And the Venetians to boot with their taking the 17. Gallies gained the subscription to a new Article wherein it was expresly declared that it might be lawfull for the Venetian Gallies without any manner of respect to pursue such Pirats as should enter into their Sea even into the Havens of the Grand Signieur and underneath his Forts Duke Weymar this mean while strongly besieged Brisack by new forces received from France he secured the field defences which shewed he meant to end that siege with profit so as what the issue of that affaire would be was plainly discerned unless the Imperiallists within the Fort who for want of necessaries began already exceedingly to suffer should receive speedy oportune succour Ghets who had the superintendency of the Papists Army confer'd upon him by the Duke of Bavaria being continually prest by the Duke to raise the Siege endeavoured how hee might with content satisfie the expectation of all the Empire Therefore after having maturely sifted the danger and difficulties of overcomming the Enemies Trenches Savell and Golts both of them Sergeant-Major Generalls of the Battell were of opinion that they should in good order set upon the Sweeds Trenches that the most couragious amongst them should throw themselves headlong upon Weymars Works whereby they doubted not but to beate the Enemie and to free the Citie and they offered to give on themselves in the first ranke But Ghets upon whom the whole burthen of the businesse lay and upon whom the blame would be laid if any evill should happen as it is usuall to impute the success be it good or bad to the Commander in chiefe very well foreseeing the difficulties which doubtless they were to meete withall differed in opinion from them alleadging that Duke Weymars Army was stil the same which not long before had defeated their Army when commanded by Wert a gallant Commander That it was not to be doubted they would hope for the like victory for that victorious souldiers fight with as much courage as the losers doe with feare That it was very well known what a Commander Weymar was resolute in what he took in hand that hee would rather dye gloriously then run away that they were not to undervalue the enemies forces who were assisted by strong troops of old and experienced French led on by worthy Captaines and which imported most fortified in covered Trenches That wise prudent Princes ought chiefly to have a care to the safety of their men not build upon uncertain hopes which are oft times overthrowne by fickle fortune That therefore his opinion was rather to endeavour succour by stratagem then by force that he should like it better to bring their Army neer unto the Enemies Camp in good covered Trenches and then making use of some favourable occasion to set unexpectedly upon them But as all men though of the same Genius differ in their effigies so did these Commanders differ in their opinions Savell and Golts adhered to their former opinion which was boldly to fight and buckle with the Enemy which could not hope for greater advantage then to see the Romanists rather beaten with their owne fear then by their weapons they approved of the reasons alleadged to weigh the difficulty and not presumptuously to precipitate their forces together with their fame but said that delay was the greatest enemy to any enterprize when it is not grounded upon some great piece of cunning that bold enterprizes were favoured by fortune and that great spirits were encouraged by the enemies fear What will our enemies say said they if they shall see us who pretend to be so strong both in numbers in courage lie encamped and not draw neer them what hope wil our Enemies have if it being once noised among them that we are afraid of them they fight with us possest of such an opinion but what wil they say at Vienna and Monacho when they shall see the fruits of our fair promises to be amazement before we see the enemies sword The prolonging of resolution profiteth not when all delays are harmfull If the field Fortifications be now unpenitrable what will they be when by the addition of others they shall be perfected and that the Forces which intend to march from Piemont and other pars shall be come up unto the enemy and have made them so much stronger and in conclusion they protested to Ghets that the occasion was now fitting and that it was not by any meanes to be let slip Ghets finding himselfe hereby to be between two rocks that he must needs give against one of them For if he should keep to his first resolution of temporizing they would blame him of Cowardise and if any mischiefe should ensue they would say they fore-told it and so lay the blame upon him and if he should fight he clearly fore-saw the little advantage he was to reap thereby so as choosing the least danger of the two he resolved to be governed by them Order was given how they should behave themselves upon this occasion Golts leading on the Van was to invade the Sweedish quarters with part of the Army Ghets was to follow them with the Rear to be in readiness to assist them when they should be gotten into the trenches or if they should be beaten backe to make good the retreate This being resolved upon Savell and Golts on the 9 of August in the head of 5 of their best Regiments fell upon the Sweeds works which were with like courage defended whilst the battle was stoutly fought by both sides and the Imperiallists had they been succoured by Ghets who was more then once desired to advance with his fresh men doubted not the victory Weymar came himselfe in person on this side with 4. French Regiments and 2 Dutch so as the Battle was again very hotly begun the Sweeds constantly defending themselves and the Imperiallists worthily behaving themselves hoping still to be succoured by Ghets and here Weymar was like to have lost his life for his horse rising up before startling at the fire of a Pistoll fell backewards with him to the ground where some souldiers came in and fighting miraculously between him and the enemy afforded him time to get upon another horse wherewith he was readily furnisht whereupon going upon a full trot in the head of two gallant French Squadrons hee charged upon another body of Dutch led on by no lesse courage
by Goltz And here he fighting himself with his sword in his hand and by his example infusing courage into the other souldiers and Captaines the battle grew so hot as shooting being given over nothing was seen but swords smeared with blood men and horses overturned and trod on by their own companions Ghetz all this while looking on that hee might come in according to appointment when Goltz and the other Captaines should have made the breach which they vaunted they would doe advanced not one inch for knowing that the enemie had likewise a reserve he intended not to hazard the whole Army unlesse hee should see the Van prevaile somewhat he therefore kept his station and would not follow his compagnions They being therefore hotly pursued by Weymars fresh men were forced to think of a retreat which ensued in such disorder as some French troopes had leisure to do no small execution upon the Caesarians Weymar pursuing Goltz in the same manner handled him so as the greatest part of his men were either slaine or taken prisoners whereat Savell and Goltz were so incensed exclaiming against Ghetz and upbraiding him with cowardize and unworthinesse as they by their letters to the Emperour Duke of Bavaria did accuse him of being the cause of all their losse and mischiefe Which being received as a trueth for great men must never acknowledge to have erred in their Commissions the miscarriage of their men and Weymars valour being attributed to Ghetz his mis-governement Philip Count Mansesielt Captain of the Emperours Guard was sent into Alsatia with ample authority to enquire into this accident to provide for what was necessary to the preservation of that importaÌt place The Romanists Army was much troubled at these disagreements For besides the losse of 4000. of the best men Ghetz had they greatly murmured against Ghetz his backe friends as if they had accused him falsely and seemed not to be well pleased with the processe that was making against him giving out in a skarpe and bitter manner that good and faithfull servants were through the wickednesse of their enemies and envyers rewarded with imprisonment so as the mischief that was hereupon likely to ensue was very great Ghetz having foreseen all these proceedings for hee very well knew that this successe as it would be related by the emulation of other Commanders would not only prejudice his reputation but bring his life in danger for such omissions as prove harmfull to the State are seldome favourably interpreted by Princes and oft times judged by Justice it selfe when blinded with passion he made his addresse to the Emperour with whom for his ancient services he was held in some esteem and who he knew had better respect unto and did more love his faithfull servants to the end that enterposing his Imperiall authority with the Duke of Bavaria he might not suffer him to be injured by the false informations of his enemies nor that integrity abused with which hee had at all times served his Prince offering willingly to enter himselfe into any of his Caesarian Majesties Forts and submit to the sentence of his just Tribunall To which the Emperour in his good nature was ready to condiscend had not the Duke of Bavaria who was advertised hereof sent suddenly an expresse messenger to Vienna to entreat his Majestie not to undertake the defence of an Officer of his whose faults were of too tender a condition and assuring him that all right and Justice should be observed in his processe Wherefore Ghetz being sent for to give an account of his actions was with a good guard brought into Bavaria The French being risen from before Saint Omer and Marishall Schattillion being joyned with Signieur de St. Previll in the parts about Ardres to make amends for the last ill successe and recover the reputation wherein the French seemed to suffer he resolved to storm Rentij For this Fort being built upon a passe of no small consideration upon the Frontiers of France by the taking of this place of refuge from the Spaniards they would not know how to make inrodes into the parts thereabouts and the way would be the more open for the French to enter freely into the dominions of Spaine He therefore came unexpectedly before the place and planted his Cannon against it and in a short time tooke it by storm and the French not having need thereof as having other Forts neer at hand it was forth-with slighted by command from the King and the people therein disperst into the neighbouring parts and haulting upon these Frontiers quarters were frequently beaten up skirmishes made by the horse of both sides the Commanders were very vigilant in keeping what they had got At this time 15. Gallies were come into the Port de Vado with about 1500. Foot part from Barcellona and part from Cesely who expected orders here from Milan where they should land their men When Don Roderigo de Valesco a Spaniard who in the Generalls absence commanded therein in chiefe understanding that the French Gallies were discovered to be in the Genoan Sea and knowing them to be but 15. and a Brigandine called a Councell of the chief Spaniards where it being argued whether they should fight or keepe quiet in the Haven it was the joynt opinion of all that they should set upon the French They therefore put to Sea and were little above seven miles from Genoa when they began about ten a clock in the morning on the first of September to salute each other with their Cannon and at last falling to boord with their swords and half-pikes the action grew so bloody as great was the slaughter which was made amongst the souldiers and much was the blood which ran out from the fore-decks and sides of the Gallies for many of the Knights of Malta being in the French Gallies who are accustomed to Sea-fights the fight was very hot on both sides but at last the French prevailing it behoved the Spaniards to flye with the loss of 6. of their Gallies amongst which the Capitana of Secely and Padrona of Spain And taking there of the French Gallies which for want of souldiers and Marriners were left at Sea and which were La Marishalla La Vanbelle and La Sernier the rest saved themselves within the Haven of Genoa The fight continued the space of 2. hours which being thus ended a storm arose the next night wherein the French Gallies lost La Patrona di Spagna by the breaking of the rope wherewith she was towed which being afterwards found by some Tartane and Coraline was brought to Genoa having first taken out of her all the money goods that was in her which was left with the chiefe Magistrate of Albenga and which was all afterwards restored to the French though to the small satisfaction of the Spaniard as causing strange rumors The Spainish gallies parting afterwards from Genoa came to Porto Fino to mend the harms they had received by
canon-shot sailed from thence towards Ligorn to provide themselves of Galli-slaves and other things necessary for their putting again to Sea This blow being heard of in Spain and Naples great was the grief occasioned thereby in those people and Officers and they were the more vext for that they professing to have the prerogative and dominion of those Seas and to be the Arbitrators of all such ships as saile thereon they could not endure that the French should Lord it there and inlarge their power as well by Sea as Land Applying themselves therefore to the consideration thereof the Spanish Ministers of State forth-with began to make new preparations They gave out new Patents for Foot to whosoever would undertake to raise them the number of Artificers in their Arcenals were encreased they hired Merchants ships and were diligent how to repaire their loss to put themselves into a condition of not meeting with the like misfortune which was prejudiciall to that reputation which the Spaniards pretend to wear upon their swords point And they pursued their affairs the hotter because they feared lest the State of Genoa being on all sides invironed by the French forces might in processe of time come to some capitulation with that Crown which they knew to be one of the greatest mischiefs that could befall the Monarchy of Spain whose greatness in Italy depending upon the Genoea's as well for the borrowing of moneys as for the fitnesse of their scituation to succour the State of Milan by Sea if this were taken from them those who understood any thing of State affairs verily believed they would have been very much strieghtned as on the contrary by the friendshipip of Genoa they might strongly maintaine themselves in Lombardy Now when the Spaniards had taken Vercelles and having since then till now kept quiet vvithin their quarters not only to recruit their men and Councells but to put themselves in a readinesse for new enterprizes to see where the French would fixe their thoughts which was said would be upon the recovery of Vercelles when they should have received the succour they expected from Dolpheny Leganes seeing how the preparations of the French were much less then what they were given out to be for not above 2000. foot and those ill appointed were as yet past the Alpes he resolved not to suffer the winter coming on without some further atchievement After many consultations had between Leganes Don Francisco de Melo Vasques other chiefe Commanders they resolved to goe for Montferrat and taking Alba to proceed forward into Piemont as well the better to secure the passages of the Lange as that by meanes of this place they might winter all their army in the enemies Country and thus besieging Cassall at a distance they might by little little so strengthen it as bringing their forces afterwards about it before the French could come into the succour of it they might reduce it to their obedience so as giving out they would take St. Ia a strong fort in the Territories of Vercelles which being possest by the French hindred the assembling together of a great part of those Territories The Spaniards rose on the 4th of Sept. from their quarters with 10000. foot 3000. horse under the command of Don Francisco di Melo for Leganes was not then very well in health came to the Town of Candia in the Lumellina and here mustering his men he past over the Poe at Brem and divided his Army into two bodies with the one he himselfe came before Poma a Castle between Cassall Valenza and Don Martin d' Aragona marched with the other towards Acqui that he might afterwards come before Alba. The French awakened by this the Spaniards march called a Councel of Warr wherein wisely examining what the Spaniards drift might be and considering upon fitting remedies some were of opinion that leaving a convenient Garrison in Cassall the main body of the army should immediatly march towards Alba and endeavour to light upon the Spaniards whilst thus disjoyned which when they should have beaten they should have so weakned the rest of the Spaniards as they might afterwards freely keep the fields and look to the preservation of Alba a place at this time of great importance for if they should once have gotten this they might easily afterwards bring their army before Carmagneola a Fort in Piemont between the Poe and Tanare from whence succour might be brought to Montferrat so as if they should likewise become Masters thereof they possessing Asty Verna Trino should almost have invironed Cassall which being in midst the Spanish forces not so easily to be succoured by the French it might at last be inforced to yield But the Duke of Candalle being otherwise minded and being therein seconded by his brother the Cardinal of Valette and by Count Guiscia 't was concluded that Alba not being then in any danger as well provided of all things they should goe to disturb the Spaniards designs on the other side and to scour the countrey for when they should once have beaten these as it would not be hard to doe since they were disjoyned they might easily afterwards dispatch the rest Whereupon the French came part of them to Trino and part to Pontestura throwing a bridg over the Sesia they presently came upon the Territories of Lomellino with intention to force out the Spanish armie and if they might not fight with them upon advantage they might at least for want of victuals and forrage compell them to abandon their design But this advice availed not for being infested on all sides by the Garrisons of Lumello and Carasona and being reduced to great necessity of victuals particularly wanting forrage for their horse wherein their greatest strength consisted they quit their design returned to their former quarters The Spaniards the mean while assaulted Poma took the Town by storm whereupon the Castle afterwards yeilded upon discretion and the Spaniards knowing of how little vantage it would be to them to have this place to retreat unto they undermyned it and gave fire unto the Myne which wrought so wel as that all the walls thereof were blowne into the aire and thrown down They then went all from thence towards Aich there to take fitting resolutions upon the present Emergencies Oxesternes arrivall at this time in Pomerania with a great strength of men raised in Swabenland Livonia and elsewhere made Bannier begin to hope wel againe who for want of men had receded many Leagues from Gallasse so as mustering his souldiers together who were disperst in the neighboring quarters he appeared in the field not so much out of his being well armed and provided of all things necessary as out of a desire to fight and recover any reputation he might be conceived to have lost Whereupon Gallasse finding how troublesome a matter it would be to lye in the fields in those parts impoverished through long wars and yet not
ways wrought upon by these the Spaniards fetches but answering their Civilities with as much courtesie thanked his Majestie for the honours he had received and took his leave of the Court the King having notwithstanding declared him to be his General of his Navy at Sea that by that title he might keep him as a servant to that Crown The Duke came by gally to Genoa to the great contentment of his Subjects who by his absence and because of the report that hee was to change his State for Sardinia were much sadded And his Councell not thinking it fit for him to deny the raising of 2000. men out of his Dukedome to the King of Spaine who had shown so much affection to his Highness it was concluded it should be done that he might thereby witness his gratitude to his Majesty of Spain for the honours he had received from him yet were not the Spaniards suffered to carry away full 2000. men for that the reason of State shews that Principalities may be termed poor which are poore in Subjects The French all this time continued their siege of Fonterabbia which as it made much for their affaires so was it very prejudiciall to the Spaniards since great consequences arising from the loss of this place all the neighboring parts would have run hazard of falling under the dominion of the French Therefore the Admirall of Castile with an army that he had got together prepared to assail the enemies Camp The which he did on the 7. of September and obteyned his ends For the French who were before the Town being much lessened in their numbers and who were desirous to tarry no longer where they suffered so much did not behave themselves according to their accustomed valour And though the Prince of Conde and other chief Commanders behaved themselves with such courage as becomes men that are ambitious of glory and did endeavour to withstand the Spanyards yet were they not able to doe it for the souldiers villified rather with their being there inclosed then by their enemies valour were so confused and fought so coldly as they were fain to raise the siege which was joyfull news to the Spaniards and as unpleasing to the French and in particular to the King who not thinking that Conde had behaved himselfe answerable to the expectation that was had of him the Prince began to be ill thought of at Court though when the businesse was maturely scand those lost their first impressions who immediately surprized at the appearance of evill stop their eares and will not let in truth But if the French were sad for their no better successe before Fonterabbia the Dolphins birth which was on the fifth of September caused such joy among them and gave such generall contentment throughout all France as they every where exprest such Jubilies and rejoycings as it very well became them to do for so great a blessing from God They who by reason of their Queenes barrennesse for the space of 22. years had given over all hopes of seeing any Issue by their King and who therefore much feared the mischief that might befall the Crown by change of Successor in an instant cleared up their countenances and were greatly consolated at this so great mercy from Heaven The King being piously given threw himselfe upon his knees before a Crucifix humbly returned thanks and acknowledgments to God Almighty for his so great goodnesse towards him The Duke of Orleans who till now was in nature of the Kings Eldest Son next heir unto the Crown came in all hast and with great respect unto the King and humbly acknowledging the Dolphin beg'd of his Majestie that as he had hitherto held him for his son his Majesty would now love him as his Cadet The King taking him up in his armes and imbracing him witnessed his neernesse of blood and the tendernesse of his affection All France was full of jollity as they expressed by their voyces gestures and actions bon-fires abounded every where In briefe as Marriners are comforted by the change of a crosse winde into a favourable gale so did this sterrility being turned to fruitfulnesse make the French rejoyce wherein such as depended on them did share but their enemies were hereat displeased The Count Palatine of Rhene whom my Author must give me leave to call Prince Elector had at this time what with 4000. Foot from England and other forces which by moneyes from the King of England he had raised Collonel Kings men being likewise therein comprehended who was Serjeant Major Generall of the Sweedish army and who had orders to joyne with the Prince Elector about Munster got together a body of men amounting to about 10000. wherewith he was advised by his Captaints friends to joyn with Melander Generall of the Hassian Forces which after the Lansgraves death continued still in service of the Crowne of Swethland that so during the Emperours being held in play by the Sweeds French he might by way of arms enter into the Palatinate and recover that which being so oft put for and desired of the Emperour was still denyed or at least fruitlesly deferr'd But before their undertaking any greater business 't was adjudged fit by men of understanding not to leave any Towns behind their backs which were possest by those of the League since thereby they might easily bring the Imperiallists to great scarcity of victuals if their Army should unadvisedly engage it selfe The Prince Elector therefore by the disbursment of some moneyes got Asnapruch and Mindell to be assigned over to him by the said King to the end he might have places to retreat unto when hee should lye with his army in the fields in those Provinces so as it seemed hee began to proceed on fortunately in those parts But Azfelt being solicited from Vienna to have an eye to the proceedings of these new Forces and the rather for that the Elector of Mens and other Ecclesiasticall Princes had very earnestly desired and accompanied these their desires with protestations that the War might not be suffered to be made upon their Territories hee came thither made towards these new souldiers with about 8000. good men drawn out of Garrisons whose places he supplyed with new men taken out of the Arch-bishopricke of Cullen The Prince Elector being therefore brought to great scarcity of victuals and not able to endure that his men should perish as they daily did through discommodiousness which was very prejudicial to the English who taken from the commodiousness of their own country are usually at their first entrance more sensible of sufferings in the field then are other Nations resolved to fight whereunto he was also inticed by his Captains who troubled that they should find their hopes fail them desired rather to hazard their lives in atchieving an honourable victory then poorely to die through sufferings Both the armies joyned therefore together in battle betweene the Vesser and the County of Osnapruch on the
which so much conceirned his Prince He therefore marched towards Burgondy to joyne with some of the Duke of Loreynes troopes that yet remained in that Province and then joyntly with the remainder of the Caesarian Army to indeavour the recovery of that reputation which if it were not altogether lost was little better But whilest he indeavoured to execute his intention with 1000. horse and 1500 foote Monseiur de Ficchiers being advertised thereof who with part of the French army kept upon the Frontiers of Loreyne which lay towards Germany that he might be ready to march wheither occasion should require went forthwith to encounter Savell as fortune doth not so easily turne to favour those whom shee hath once turned her back upon when they were come to Blowes the Imperialists being on all sides invironed by the French who were many more in number then they Savell with much adoe saved him selfe and his horse leaving the Foote to the discretion of the Enemy who tooke many of them prisoners and got about 80. Carriages of Victualls and Baggadge which when Reynock who was Governour of Brisack understood knowing that his last hopes were vanisht away in smoake and seeing it was decreed by the Fates that that place should be lost which was brought to its last gaspe and there being neither force nor industy that can fight against hunger he condiscended to yeild the Towne up to Weymar and to receive those honourable conditions that were offered him he therefore on the eighteenth of December marched out with Banners flying with Armes and baggadg and other such accustomed ceremonyes Thus were the Austerians deprived of this so important a place to the great displeasure of the Caesarian Court and very great resentment of the Duke of Bavaria who having long before foreseene the businesse and the ruine that was likely to ensue had given exact information thereof to the Emperour and his Ministers of state and thought the Emperours officers had failed much in their duty in taking no greater care for the preservation of a place which was the very soule of all those Provinces for they might easily have victualled and munitioned it for a longer time And the Spaniards leaving sufficient forces for their Warre in Itally and Flanders might easily have succord it and have kept afflicted Germany from those new wounds which that they might heale their owne they suffered her without compassion to receive Bavaria was moreover greived at this losse because it being the key of Alsatia a Province which serves for an out Bull-worke to his states more perticularly to the Palatinat his Enemies being got in thither would keep his dominions in perpetuall feare and agitation And though some saw that this place being to remaine free in Weymars possession it might easily hereafter be either made to have no dependency upon France or else returne againe into the Austreans hands either by composition or stratagem yet the feare least before this should happen the French might get footing there which when they should have done they would not so easily be driven out was a thing infinitly considerable in reason of State By how much therefore the Imperialists were hereat afflicted the French were as much pleased and Weymar who blowne up with glory in having wonne a place of such importance before the face of so many forces conspired against him 't was feared he might inlarge his thoughts and afflict the remainder of those states noe lesse then the King of Sweden had done whereof he was debar'd by his suddaine death as in its proper place shall be said Weymar having placed a Guarrison in this Towne and all things necessary or requisite for the defence thereof he left Collonell Erlack for the Governour thereof a Swise by nation and marched with his Army into Burgondy that he might winter there and be at the King of France his disposall whereat his first entrance he tooke many places amongst the rest the Castle of Ioux and Collonell Rosa staied to take in Tan that he might deprive the Enemy of that place of retreate and the better secure the passage from Burgondy into Flanders Passing forwards from Ioux Weymar made himselfe Master of Ponterlin which was no strong place of Nosaret another weake place towards the River Daime and being tould that some of the Enemyes troopes were quartered about Ornans a Towne upon the River Lonne he over run all those neighbouring Townes but to little purpose for upon the newes of his coming the Burgonians had forsaken them and were got into Bisansonne Banniers forces being now increased by the accesse of the people which the Swedish Ministers of State sent him in from all sides and Gallasse on the contray being inforced to retreate through the want of victualls and of money and by reason of his Armies being much diminished by sufferings and by the plague did without any manner of feare keep the feilds in those parts where finding he was dreaded and knowing the power of daring when the adversary gives back he advanced to make further acheevements and continued firme in his opinion of bringing all the Warre upon the Enemyes Country and of easing those Provinces which being quartered upon now by the one now by the other side the people which yet remained therein were brought into great want He therefore rose from his winter quarters in the one and the other Marca and in Brunswick and having mustered his Army which he found to be about 26000. fightingmen he in good order marched towards Turingia a bould undertaking but rendred feasible by reason of the confusion and paucety of the Imperiall forces in those parts The newes whereof coming to Dresden and to Prage and this neighbour-hood being very prejudiciall to that Duke and to the Bohemians convenient provisions were earnestly demanded of the Emperour who no lesse fearing these proceedings held daily Councels touching the present Emergencies Orders were sent to Azfelt who was yet about Westfalia having an eye to the proceedings of King and the Prince Elector who endeavoured all they might to rally their Forces to march with part of his souldiers towards Fulda and to discover what the Sweeds intentions were The people who were quartered in the Bishopprick of Munster and others in those Provinces were sent towards the Wesser that they might come to Gallasse in Bohemia who being indisposed in body but much more in minde by reason of Azfelts prosperous fortune who began publiquely to say hee would no longer be subordinate or subservient to him desired to withdraw himselfe to a private life At which the Caesarian Councell being not a little troubled he was comforted with good words and had leave given him to tend the recovery of his health but not to quit his charge obliging him as soone as hee should be recovered to reassume the employment which in his absence was committed to Colonell Slich But Gallasse thinking that these appearances proceeded not from the heart because he saw that together
these Forts to try who should have the honour first to perfect his undertaking so as the Spaniards were greatly troubled not only in respect of the imminent danger but out of their emulation for they now saw the greatnes of France did much with-draw from the preheminence which the Spaniards pretended unto in Europe yet not giving way either to fear or passion they provided to defend themselves on the one and the other side Picolomeny was sent towards Theonville that with his valour and experience hee might relieve that place The Infanta encamped himselfe with 14000 men neere Borbocke to endeavour the safety of Hesdin Souldiers were raised every where in Spaine to keepe Salsa from being lost and because the Prince of Oringe was at the same time marcht towards Nimenghen to raise jealousies in the Spaniards and to divide their Forces in such manner as they should not be able to defend themselves both against him and against the French the Countrey Militia being made to take up armes who were put into places least suspitious in lieu of the Souldiers that were drawne thereout another great body of men was sent to Gheldren In fine wisedome nor dexterity not being wanting in any part Spain and France and all other States belonging to these two Crownes were full of Armes and abounded in Councells how they might prosperously effect their ends Whilst these things went thus Bannier not seeing the expected recruits appeare for Scallans who had the leading of them entertained himselfe by the way in taking in of some places held by the Imperiallists which though they were not much valued yet by reason of great contributions which were taken from them were advantagious to the Sweeds and being advertized how the Imperiallists grew daily stronger thought to passe over the Elbe so to keepe himselfe the better from their hostility and joyning with those who were in Slesia to encamp there till the expected succor should arrive But Maracini being advertised hereof though he had not Forces sufficient to buckle with the Sweeds who were become the more bold for that they saw their safety depended more upon the edge of their swords he being encourgaged by his former good successe and by the retreate which is oft times esteemed a kinde of flight gave on with more of hope then security between Chimnits and Suika upon the horse led by Plato Sergeant Major of the Sweedish Battle who was cunningly placed by Bannier in the reer upon agreement made between them that if the Imperiallists should appeare he should only entertaine them with skirmishes and should rather seeme to flye away then to resist for that the enemie being thereby much inhartned might without feare fall upon the Ambush which Bannier had laid of 2000. Foote and 500. Dragoones and 12. pieces of Cannon loaded with musquet bullets placed at the entrance of a certaine passage and of 1 500. horse which were ready with Banniers selfe to fall upon the Imperiallists when they should be falne into the Net which the Sweeds had laid for them for knowing the greediness of Souldiers and particularly of such who kept fasting from usuall contributions and pay doe headlong without any manner of respect fall to plunder he thought that the Imperiallists at the first sight would not keepe from falling upon them And Plato in conformity to the appointment made skirmishing with some few troopes and retreating the stratagem tooke effect for the Austrians desirous to doe some-what to up-hold their reputation and fill their pockets charged furiously upon the enemies horse and came in sight of the baggage in defence of which the Sweeds seeming to advance with some files of Foot the other flew upon them who being charged in the reere of Banniers horse as they thought to wheel about on the other side fell so full in the mouth of the Ambush as that the Cannon playing suddenly upon them and some musquets wherewith the hedges were lyned their files were so routed and their ranks so disordered by the falling of their men and horses which were either slaine or wounded as that they fled away in disorder and fell foule upon their owne Foote in horror and confusion overthrowing all order So as being pursued on all sides by the Sweeds great was the slaughter that was made At last the battle being again resumed by the gross body of the Imperiallists led on by Mâracini who not able to endure to stand spectator of this bad successe desired to lose his life together with the battle two fierce and bloody encounters were had But the Imperiallists being no longer able to make head against the Sweeds having continually 400. Dragoones upon their backes who pursuing the Imperiall horse did great execution upon their Squadrons by their continuall shooting it behoved them to face about and to endeavour their safety by flight towards Dresden wherein being followed by the Sweeds they lost their baggage eight piece of Cannon many Colours about 4000. Souldiers and Count Erucam Colonell Paradisi with divers other Captains and Officers were taken prisoners to the Austrians so great terrour as fore-seeing by this what they were to expect hereafter all those parrs were full of feare and confusion Azfelt was therefore by redoubled messengers desired to come into Bohemia which hee unwillingly did by reason of the Competition 2000. Hungarians came into that Kingdome who were a very small helpe for plundering and robbing the very Subjects they exasperated the people and were rather a prejudice then any comfort to them The Emperour who was ready to go for Prague deferred his journey and all the forces of Moravia Austria and the other neighbouring Provinces marched towards the Frontiere Bannier encouraged by this happy encounter would not leave Freibury behinde him upon his back but whilest the people were possest with feare his victory was in force he would indeavour to take it He therefore came before it with 10000. fighting men and first by promises and faire meanes invited the Governour to surrender who being an experienced Souldier returned such becoming answer as his duty bound him to so as faire meanes not prevailing he must betake himselfe to foule to dig trenches and plant his Cannon but the inhabitants behaving themselves gallantly Bannier found t' would be a hard peece of worke therefore that he might loose no more time before that place and consequently afford the Imperiallists time to rally themselves he turned his march towards Bohemia and having taken Melnish and Latmerits upon the Elbe he haulted there for all the Austrians being run to Prague and Gallasse who had reassumed his command being encamped upon the white hill with 10000. foote and 4000. horse he found that City would not so easily be taken nor would he without good grounds hazard to loose the honour he had wone haulting therefore at Latmerits and fortifying himselfe there he intended to make a Magasine there of all things necessary for the army thereby to keep Bohemia and Saxony in
bin quieted and proceeding from thence into the State of Millan they might have given some great blow unto the Spaniard The Cardinal of Vallette went therefore with five thousand Foot and two thousand horse from Puerin a place between Chter and Carmagneola and hoping to finde successe according to his expectations he hastned his march but the Prince being acquainted with all these proceedings and the fore-named Captains being sodainly imprisoned together with some others that had a hand in this business and the little gate of relief in St. Andrews Bulwork wherby the French were to have bin let in being found open they through vigilancy prevented all mischief The Cardinal of Valette who was already come to St. Domiano within 3 miles of Asti hearing this returned to Montferrat being informed how that the Spaniards that they might make use of their men in the field and not thinking that the French could then oppugn any considerable place had drawn out of Chinas a great part of the Garrison thereof he marched thitherward and making himself master of all the important places about it he approached to it with his Cannon Trenches Leganes who dreamt of nothing lesse then this and who was with his Army between St. Ia and Trino where he heard of it sent forth-with Don Iohn Geray with some troopes of horse and other intelligent Commanders towards them to discover the position of the French as also to draw out 300. Foot from the Garrison of Verna and convoy them into Chinas and he sodainly built a bridg over the Doira and another over the Poe near Verna thinking to send timely succour but failing in his intention concerning the 300. men as also of succouring the Towne by force for the French were already lodged in the most advantagious places he marched between Turin and Chinas to keep victuals from comming to the French Camp and thereby force them to rise the which took likewise no effect for Longeville who was not far from thence with 4000. Foot 1500. horse did by safe convoyes bring all things necessary into the French camp so as the Spaniards resolved to take some other way to relieve the Town Sottello was therfore sent with 100. foot to take a little fort which the French had made beneath the gate of Chinas the which by assault he did and was like to have kept it had the Spaniards come in with their strength against the succour brought by the French but the Spaniards failing herein those who were formerly ingaged were inforced to retreat with great loss Whereupon the Baron Labach who was Governor thereof who was wounded in the head after having discharged the part of a valiant Captain knowing to what a strait the Town was reduced and dispairing of reliefe Articled and surrendred the place upon honourable conditions and the Spanish Garrison marched out to the great amazement of their State Ministers who thought it a great boldnes in the French to set upon take a place with so few men whilst their army stood looking on which not long before had boasted it self to be Mr. of the field in all Piemont Montferrat They therefore retreated to Rivarotta with los of 2000. men which had perished with divers actions knowing thereby the importancy of the scituation of Cressentino they went thither and began to fortifie it intending to make it a considerable place for the better maintaining of their forces in that Province finding it now to be apparant that as they were very good to Towne so were they not much inferiour to the FRENCH in the field During the Siege of Chinas the Cardinall of Savoy who was in Asti did with some of the Garrison of that Town part of them like of Annone and others unexpectedly on the 17. of Iune take Cecca a Towne not farre from Mandoni and Tanario and some other Castles and places held by the French the which he did that he might the better open his ways towards Nice in Province the Governour whereof fearing lest the French should get in thither had already acquainted the Cardinall that he kept it for him Chinas being taken the Cardinall de Vallette bethought himselfe of taking in Villa Novo d' Asti as a place very fitting to make way for further Enterprises and likewise as a place which made much for the Spaniards touching their taking of Cassall and therefore hee was upon his March towards it when being advertized by the way that Longaville had taken the Towne and Castle of Bene as also Fossano and Mondoni and that hee was going to take in Cingio thinking it more behoovefull to drive the Enemie out of the heart of Piemont then to endeavour any new atchievements hee faced about and returned towards Purim and Bra endeavouring to put men and Ammunition into Cassall sufficient to maintain it for a long space but not being able to effect his desire by reason of the good Guards which the Spaniards kept thereabouts after having staid some few dayes being advertized how that Longaville was sate downe before Cuneo hee suddainely rising from his quarters went to the said Longeville At the same time that people were busie in Italy that the French did undauntedly continue their Siege of Hesdin and Theonville in the Low Countreyes and that the Prince of Conde was no lesse un-employed before Salsa in Spaine Picolomeny who was intrusted with the reliefe of Theonville desirous as wholly given over to the glory of armes to give tryall of that worth which was conspicuous in him calling his men together and mustering them about the River Chter where he found ten thousand Foote and sixe thousand horse hee in publique affirmed that by the relieving of that place hee would let Flanders know that the Dutch men were not come to enjoy the good entertainment that was provided for them by the Infanta but to make good the glory by the further hazard of their splendor that their warlike and fierce nature had over all others of being the life of victory He made the hazard of so great an undertaking be knowne concealed not the worth of the French Nation the bravery of their horse and the forwardnesse of their Voluntiers to the end that his men not ignorant of any thing might put on an extraordinary resolution either to overcome their enemies or if they should doubt it to take their leave for he would presently give leave to any one that did not willingly follow him to be gone since the feare of a few may distast the daring of many and concluding that hee himselfe marching in the Front would make way for others He caused their Huts to be set on fire marched in good order towards the French camp Fichiers upon the newes hereof having held a Councell of Warre with the chiefe of his men it was resolved on by all that they should by no meanes for all these threats remove from their stations but boldly face the Germans and give them battle
fish for respect and veneration not for obsequy and love for they who are tedious in lending an âare and proud in their replyes destroy and doe not strengthâen their command as on the contrary good words never hurt the mouth nor eâcoriate the Tongue He therefore banisht Ceremonyes hated flatterers dispised proud men and cared not for outsides The purity of curtesy perspecuity of thoughts and sincerity of heart lodged under the freedome of familiarity He had an esteem of every one and honoured the privatest souldier as much as he did the chiefest officer saying there was nothing whereby to awaken a mans spirit but honour and hopes to come thereby for he that sees himselfe honoured ought to doe honourably that his actions may correspond with his honor nor was there any more prejudiciall maxime then in shewing greatnesse to be scornefull in behaviour since thereby the actions and hardnesse of the couragious are imbassed and suffocated when there was a negotiation of extraordinary suffering he would never fare better then did his souldiers In so much as if necessity inforced them to sleep covered over with Snowe He though he had better conveniences would doe the like terming them alwayes his bretheren and companions There is no excuse for weakenesse when the head gives example to them that follow This is the Trumpet which awakens the soule of the Souldier strengthens decaying forces and comforts the disposition of the will He was so desirous to purchase a good name by his worth and vertue and to prosper in his imployments as he never ceased thinking with what force to overcome with what plots to have the better of and with what bravery to astonish his Enemyes and purchase his desires He exercised himselfe onely in the knowledge of scituations in reveiwing sconces in observing what his Army wanted in indeavouring their satisfaction in discerning his officers opinions and in runing sometimes to one place sometimes to another without any respect to his paines or labour and the spare houres he had from such exercises he spent them all in advising what was best to be done in speculation how he might beate his enemies and in thinking how he might comfort his Militia He shewed himselfe active upon all expediences ready upon any agreement in any resolution impatient couragious in any action He studied chiefely how to imitate the actions of the best Commanders and in particular those of his adored King of Swethland All selfe-interest all idle desires all weake fancies were farre from his inclination from his generosity he spake many languages well he would patiently heare what every one would say and was satisfied with good will where the power was wanting He was never angry upon any bad information he never beleived all that was told him he never blamed any one till he had well weighed the truth He delighted not to punish he loved to pardon nor did he ever more willingly pardon then when the offence was greatest to this purpose he would say that they who can commit great faults can also doe acts greatly meritorious by one of which a Prince receives more good then by punishing many errours wherein the state is not concerned When he could not give satisfaction by deeds his words were sufficient He hath by his speech only so satisfied and contented many that have mutined for want of pay as the greatest threateners have oft times laid downe their pretences at his feete In breife Duke Weymar was loved effectually reverenced out of love admired out of reverence celebrated out of admiration and adored for being famous in all his qualities nothing of amisse was known in him but his too eager forwardnesse by which being oft times heated he would loose all his patience turning daring into audacity and that into rashnesse He dyed when he was not yet full six and thirty yeares old and just in a time when fortune turning her face upon him he had fastened her by the haire to his sword He left the government of the Army and of Brisack to Count Nassaw Colonell Erlach Roso and Ohem his deserts to the Crowne of France and Swethland The Sweedes kept all this while at Brandeis and the Imperiallists about Prague the one watching over the other and Bannier did this to the end that whilest the Imperiall Armie was busied here his other chief Captains might have opportunity to proceed on else-where as more particularly Colonell Orans in Slesia who being recruited by some accesse of men from Pomerania was likely to doe some good in that Province For having routed Colonell de Vich and taken Count Pompey prisoner in Sagan who was come thither after Viches defeate and after he had behaved himselfe gallantly in divers encounters with the Sweedes though farre inferiour to them in number it seemed that the loss of these two prime Commanders who till then had honourably defended that Province threatned no small ruine to that side The other Sweedes having likewise taken the Citie of Perna did at the same time oppugne the Castle which being valiantly defended by the Saxons their fortune seemed to be at a stand and that they should penetrate no further into the State of that Elector for the Saxons setting at unawares upon them in Perna they did not only relieve the Castle but forced them to forsake the Citie and by flight to recover Laitmeritz Prince Thomas being speedily advertised of the French-mens departure from Turin and of their assailing Cuneo and being invited by those that sided with him to undertake the taking of Turin he advised with Leganes of what was best to be done and the resolution was to endeavour it Parting therefore from Asti they marched joyntly towards Moncallier and the Prince being come thither with 2000. horse 1000. Foote scaling ladders and Petars he on the 26. of Iuly at sixe of the clocke at night came before the walls and by intelligence which it was thought he held with Don Maurice of Savoy and with the Colonell of the Dutchess her guard being come up to the greene Bastion behinde the Dukes Palace his Souldiers without any gain-saying got upon the Rampeire and applying a Petarre to the Castle gate on the other side he luckily obtained his end For the Palace being unprovided of Souldiers those few French who ran to keepe backe the men that entred were forced themselves to give backe at the newes hereof the Dutches getting into her Coach retired suddenly to the Cittadell accompanied by Colonell d' Aglie by the Presidents Benci Cauda Lauder by Monsieur Manta Count Valdsperga the Marquess Lolias and other chief Officers of the Court with Ladies and the same Don Maurice who upon some pretence not entering into the Cittadell returned to the Citie and followed the Prince his party The newes of this accident as it was of great importance and had mighty consequences depending upon it so were not the French Captaines a little troubled at it who when they heard of it as they were
Gate where he spoke with the Governour and perswaded him to persist in his defending the Towne promising him sudden and opportune succour which being done he returned to his quarters not meeting with any encounter This meane while Colonell Libesteime was come unto them with two of the Duke of Wirtenbergs Regiments and one of Ransawes and Schavalischi with three other Regiments two of Horse and one of Foot the Swedish Horse the Ringrave and Cratz not comming unto them could not move from the advantage of their seat without either giving battell or making a prejudiciall retreat for if they should once part from thence it would be very hard for Cratz ever to joyne with them who ran manifest danger of being left to the mercy of the Imperialists much complaint was made for want of Forrage for it being to be fetcht afarre off many of their Horse came short home which were cut off by the Crabats and the Citie which was continually playd upon by the Cannon from divers of the Enemies batteries by making of severall great fires gave notice of what extremitie it was reduced unto Waymer perswaded by these reasons and by his owne generous heart which still excited him to try a battell with the Enemy and who desired nothing so much as to be in the Front against a contrary Army so to beare away the Victory which he affirmed to be a pleasure which did farre exceed all other earthly contentment began againe to perswade Horne that they were obliged to succour the Citie since they had given them their word so to doe that every day they lost in so doing made the Confederate Cities lesse confident for when they should see Ratisbon Dunawert and Norlinghen lost in the face of the Swedish Army their Colleague which not long before had boasted not to feare what Fortune could doe nor any Forces the Imperialists could make they would have but small hopes of being defended especially when that Army which dauntlessely had in triumph advanced to beyond the Danube should now be seene to give back and suffer Confederate Cities recommended to the care thereof to be lost whilst it looked on He added that great undertakings were actions which became great Commanders that boldnesse made much for victory that Iulius Caesar with a few Souldiers beat Pompeyes great Army that the prâffers of fortune were not to be refused which to make the Protestants victories more glorious had given them an occasion to immortallise their fame by bringing them to fight against a King a Cardinall and an Elector of the Empire assisted by Polaches Hungarians Dutch Italians and Spaniards the gallantest Nations of Europe that the taking any one of these Princes prisoners would be a weighty circumstance that there could not be a fitter time then this desired by Souldiers for by overcomming fresh men rich and well appointed they were to change their fortune together with their apparrell that the Findlanders Horse long'd to have a bickering with the Neapolitans and to change horse with them that great numbers begat confusion and that danger ought not to be thought of where mens mindes are conscious of no such thing But these reasons prevailed nothing with Horne who governing himselfe with wisedome and solidity was not carried away with the vapours of desire for the businesse in hand being weighty he would by no meanes consent to what had been moved but his advice was to know the opinions of all the chiefest Officers before they should come to such a resolution who being called together and much argumentation being had hereupon it was the generall opinion that the Infanta's Army being that day joyned with the Kings and the Swedes succour being yet afarre of they neither could nor ought undertake any thing which would be but to precipitate themselves into ruine Horne said and was followed in what he said by the greatest part of the Commanders that in a businesse of so great weight men ought to be very advised in their resolutions and to foresee the event of running greedily upon a businesse the difficulties whereof were not so slight as their desires would make them appeare that the Austrian Army was conducted by valiant Captaines and who were desirous in presence of their Prince to demonstrate such valour as might make them seem worthy of the places conferred upon them that the Dutch wanted not courage the greatest part of them being the remainders of those Armies who had so often looked the Enemie in the face that the Italians though new men were yet knowne to be agile and soon made capable of the businesse desirous of honour who not being acquainted in the Country it was to be believed that they would joyntly resolve rather to die overcoÌming then by flying away become a prey to the barbarous Country-people that the Spaniards being ambitious of glory of the fame of being cried-up for the preservours of the Imperiall greatnesse being resolute in fighting a wise Nation and very valiant it was not to be imagined that they would turne their backes that the Kings being present ought not to be contemned though but a young man for that it was a great furtherance to an Army and all Commanders desirous together with his yeares to increase in his Majesties favour they were by manifestation of their gallantry to indeavour a place in his affection but that which of all things else ought to be duly weighed was that they were very weake in men in comparison of the Enemy and that they were not to passe by one consideration that if they should be worsted at this time he knew not how they should ever get together againe since the Crowne of Swethland could not disburse monies for new levies and the Captaines not caring whether their Companies were full or empty that therefore the chiefe thing to be indeavoured was the preservation of those people without the which the Swedish power would be annihilated and that they must rather thinke how to overcome their Enemies by Wit then by Weapons and that if they would needs try a Battaile they must of necessity attend the comming of one at the least of their two expected re-inforcements So as to give Waymer notwithstanding satisfaction they resolved to lay aside any resolution of giving Battaile till Cratz at least were come to them who was by this time not farre of they fell notwithstanding to bethinke how they might indeavour to succour the Towne with any appearance of good successe and divers were the consultations in this behalfe Some were of opinion that their best course was to seat themselves at Vallesteine some halfe a League distant from Nordlinghen as the neerest place unto the City and from whence they might bring such succour as was requisite but this was not approved of for that to effect this a great space of champian Country being to be passed over they consequently afforded the Enemy opportunity to give them Battaile when the Swedes should not be able to retreat
other people of the Countrey Army who neither withstood them nor indeavoured to disturbe their passage The Spanish Foot came notwithstanding that night to Schietto and the Horse to Casse where they kept themselves all night in Armes and being told that the Savoyards were disperst abroad in little Cottages thereabouts Captaine Miazza was ordered to scoure the Countrey who fell in upon the quarters of some of the Enemies Horse wherein he came off with much losse the assaylants were few but those that were set upon fewer Villa in all this march was very vigilant and kept his men in good order So as those of Parma and the Savoy Horse passing on successefully they haulted at Castle S. Iohn and quartering themselves in the Piacenzan Townes they expected what resolves their Commanders would put on The Spaniards this meane while not onely at Madrid but in the state of Milan and in all other places appertaining to the Austrians studied the best they could and used their utmost diligence in taking care for all things requisite for the Crowne and especially in providing to withstand the French invasion in the Valteline and in the state of Milan the losse whereof they much apprehended seeing the French so strong and so united and which imported more having such friends and holding such correspondency in Italy for the Austrians held for certaine that the Venetians by reason of their ancient league and mindfull of the injuries formerly plotted against them by the Spanish Agents were too much interessed with the French That the Duke of Savoy invironed by the French Forces was obliged in outward appearance if not inwardly to declare himselfe their Enâmy Parma had denounced Hostilitie Mantua was a Confederate Genua a Neuter So as if things had so fallen out as they imagined the Spaniards being on all sides invironed with so great powers could not for certaine have saved themselves from the On-sets in every part And though the wiser sort saw plainly 't would be a hard businesse to agree so many in unitie or so many unions by reason of the differing interests of the Italian Princes and that well weighing the reasons of State it was probably seene that this the Spaniards conceit was built but upon a weake foundation though it carried likelyhood with it yet the Kings Ministers of State having maturely considered the present emergencies resolved that Marquis Leganes declared Governour of Milan some moneths before should speedily goe to his charge Whereupon parting presently from Bartelona in Gallyes and Galliouns he about this time landed at Genua with 2000 Spanish Foot went from thence to Pavia and was with much applause received into Milan Where after having taken order for the Civill Government he applyed himselfe with all industry to what concerned the Warre and though the hardnesse of the Season already white-headed suffered him not to proceed further and that the Spaniards intended to spend that Winter onely in raysing more men so as at the next Spring they might be able not onely to defend their owne but to invade the States of others yet to keepe the Souldier in exercise to winne credit at his first entrance that he might not seeme to give way to the Confederate Forces and to give the Duke of Parma an inkling how at the last all the Warre was likely to fall upon his Countrey and therefore he should doe well to thinke of an accommodation He commanded the Marquis of Caretsana the Captaine of his Guard to march from Lugdiano to before Guardamiglio a Castle belonging to the Piacenzan jurisdiction upon the Confines of the Lodian Territories whether the Marquis comming forthwith and planting his Cannon against it the Castle not being in a case to make resistance yeelded upon discretion The Forces of the Emperour and of the Catholick League were already advanc'd from Alsatia into Burgundy and to Rumberviller upon the very mouth of Lorayne thinking to doe somewhat in that Dukedome incited thereunto by the no good will which the Loreyners bore unto the French and who was desirous to have their first master a neutrall Where Wirt being advertised by spies that some Carriages of victuals were upon their way to the French Camp neeâ Niclanport he marched privatly to them with 1000 Horse and 700 Muskettiers making such haste as falling unexpectedly upon 600 Horse which was their Convoy he put them all to flight and tooke from them 70 Carriages loaded with Wine and 30 with victuals Gallasse on the other side likewise having taken Mentz which was farre from succour and wanted such Rampiers as might serve for longer defence for it was onely begirt with bare Wals and old Towers upon the Rhyn over against the mouth of the Mayne and leaning to a little hill upon the which stood a Castle fortified by the Swedes with Bulwarkes after the moderne fashion which after some dayes Siege yeelded it selfe Thinking to doe somewhat more hee went with his Army from those parts and meeting with no resistance came within sight of Sarbruch a Towne upon the Confines of Germany parted from Lorayne by the River Sar which after some Cannon shot made at it likewise yeelded from thence hee advanced and came neer the City Doiponti or Dupont which gives the name to a space of land adhering to Lorayne and the lower Palatinat called the Dukedome of Dupont and is seated upon the bankes of Bleis where he haulted fearing to encounter the French Army if he should advance further which being joyned with Duke Waymer was very strong and numerous about Metz a chiefe City of large precincts invironed with strong Walls and watered by the Mosell where the French were quartered And knowing hee should not tarry long there by reason of scarcity of Victuals and the Souldiers sore complaints hee resolved to retreat and to winter his men in Franconia Wirtenberg and Alsatia But thinking he should doe amisse if he should leave Deistem uncorrected wherein was a French Garrison who by their frequent Sallies much terrified the Inhabitants of the neigbouring Villages he marched thitherward raised two Batteries aginst it and aftâr an Assault wherein were slaine about 40 Imperialists and 30 French the Imperialists stormed the Towne and put all to the Sword whom they found Armed On the other side the Elector of Saxony was joyned with the Forces of Lunenburg and some other Dutch Regiments which were come to serve him by reason of the Swedes ill usage of them the chiefe Commanders whereof appropriating unto themselves such contributions as they got from the Countries through which they past leaving these men to pay themselves out of the advancements due from the Townes which they had ruinated and were forsaken by the Inhabitants whereupon they became so insolent and licentious as that behaving themselves without any manner of discipline they had the boldnesse to plunder and sacke their friends Townes and flying from their Colours came in great numbers to inrole themselves under the Elector and Imperialists The Saxons
being thus recruited marched into the field to oppose the inrodes of the Swedes who keeping in the State of Magdeburg did much infest those Towns which joyned upon Saxony and putting some of their Regiments to flight they slew many of them and tooke 7 Ensignes Bannier being hereof advertised who was reinforced about Lunenburg with 4000 Souldiers which were brought to him by Colonell Stalans from Prussia marched with his Army against the Saxons who fearing to meet with desperate men and such as desired to joyne Battaile with them though their numbers were greater their courage appeared to be lesse for they faced about and retreated to their former quarters Hannaw was likewise at this time streightly besieged by the Imperialists a strong hold fortified after the moderne fashion and seated upon the River Brints which taking its head from Franconia fals into the Mayne before Franckfort Colonell Vistum did herein command in Chiefe one of the bravest Commanders the Swedes had who having a stout Garrison made frequent Sallies wherewith he much troubled the Marquis of Grana and Lamboi who were the chiefe leaders of the Caesarian Camp News being come to the Court of France of their countrymens retreat from before Valenza and how little good their Commanders had yet done they took speedy advice about such things as they thought most fitting to continue the Warre in Italy and somewhat to salve their losse of reputation It was therefore foreseen and evidently made appeare by the wiser sort that little was to be hoped for in that Province whilest they were not really and effectually assisted by other Potentates or else unlesse the King himselfe should march thither in person with a powerfull Army For the French have no great desire to make Warre in Italy which they call their Grave insomuch as of 20000 Foot which came from Dolpheny hardly 10000 came into Piemont of which whole Squadrons fled daily away moved thereunto out of the impatiency the French-men have of seeing Rome Venice and other Cities in Italy where they stay lay downe their Armes and betake themselves to such Trades as they formerly used in France whereby the French Companies were so much lessened as that their Captaines not daring to acquaint the King therewithall were it either out of shame or for their privat gaine by the receiving of dead pay excused their delay by invented difficulties Whence it was that thus to set upon an estate full of strong holds and having good Forces in the fields was but a losse of men and time And the King not being able to goe out of his Kingdome by reason of the great interests of the Crowne or rather as it was said by others lest he might hazard that reputation and glory which with the universall applause of Christendome and of the whole World he had wonne when he freed the Duke of Mantua from evident Spanish subjection it behoved either to quit the enterprise or else to indeavour to conclude a friendship and union with some such Potentate as might be able to set upon that State in some other part that by such a diversion the way might be opened to their desired proceedings This Counsell though it were the most proper and that which at their first taking up Armes was imbraced yet was it not thought sufficiently effectuall For those who cleerly saw the reason and relation of States argued by what was past that the Italians more hated the neighbourhood of the French then of the Spaniards they being naturally more inclined to the Spaniards by reason of their sympathizing in language and gravity with them then to the others who much differ from them both in customes and vivacity of spirit Yet building upon the opinion that the Spaniards were ill thought of as those who being potent in Italy doe infinitely desire to inlarge the bounds of their Monarchy That they had beene the cause of so much ruine in Italy as was witnessed by the fresh memory of Mantua and Lombardy they perswaded themselves that particular hatred was able in some sort to obfuscat that wisedome through which Princes regard not the memory of any thing that is past that so they may be the more intent to the present interest of their State The Duke of Parma was in this interim not well satisfied with those chiefe Agents who had the government of the French Forces in Italy who gave little appearance of concurring in advice with his Highnesse keeping their men quartered in Montferrat when both time and occasion required they should have beene imployed about the common interest before such time as further Forces should bee brought into the State of Milan as was expected from Spaine Naples Germany and elsewhere and whereof some Dutch Troopes did already appeare who were received upon the Confines by Signior Alexander Visconti sent thither to that purpose from Milan The Duke foresaw that through the Commanders negligence who minded nothing but their owne profit the Warre was at last to fall wholly upon his Country which lay open for the Spanish invasion But he was also comforted by hopes of receiving fresh aide from the King of France and that hee himselfe should have the chiefe command of the Warre A businesse which if it had succeeded as it was wisely advised the French might have hoped for better successe then they hitherto had For the Duke of Parma being a sprightly Prince and of high thoughts would have carried on the Warre with courage and ingenuity and being sufficiently ill minded towards the Spaniards would not have let slip such occasions as should have opportunely presented themselves keeping his Companies compleat and behaving himselfe like a generous Commander And when the Milanesses should have seene such a Prince in the field who can tell but that believing hee might prove another Lodowick they would not have been so faithfull unto the Spaniards as now they seemed to bee for feare of falling in subjection to the French And this was thought by witty men the best course the French could have taken for when they should have appeared not to have beene any wayes interessed themselves and that their onely end had beene to have driven out the Spaniards and to have reduced that Dukedome under the Scepter of an Italian Prince those who were subjects unto Spaine would have been glad thereof so to have been eased from the government of strangers and the other Princes of Italy hoping to better their condition by expelling the Spaniards and particularly by their dividing the State of Milan amongst them they would have heartily fomented the worke but strangers being to be exchanged for strangers and an united power as was then that of France being to be drawne neere them 't was better for them to continue the State of Milan in the Spaniards hands whose Territories are farre off and disjoyned For to compose an Army fit to defend on one part and to offend the State on another much Mony and time would be required and the
Spaniards from injuring the Piacenzan State Hee therefore sent the Body of his Army to Vespola upon the Goyna between Mortare and Novara and hee with his Horse went towards Vigevan to the end that taking that Towne hee might concentrate himselfe in the heart of that State The Territories and Townes thereabouts were sackt without any obstacle for the Spaniards not being yet joyned came not time enough to succour them Gamba Corta was therefore sent against them with a good party of Horse and a considerable strength of Foot who meeting with the French skirmished some houres with them where at last it behoved the French to retreat with some losse of Horse by which good incounter the grosse Body of the Spaniards who were assembled together about Biagras advanced and made the French abandon Vespola where the most part of their Forces were and to retreat on the other side the Goyna to Satirano and Bremo Whereupon the French failing in their hopes to remove the Warre from Parma the Dutch and Spaniards continued the taking of Townes and Castles in that State to the great prejudice of the Inhabitants who were forced to fly and forsake their houses by reason of out-rages committed by the Dutch the which the Dutch affirmed they did to retaliate the barbarismes committed by the Country-people against some of their Souldiers who were found nailed to Trees Miserable was the condition of this Province and the behaviour of those of Regio unexcusable yet when it came to the knowledge of the prime Officers who were desirous to remedy such abuses the Governour of Milan by publick edicts and threats forbad the Souldiers to commit any insolencies or extortions upon the Country-people The Swedes Forces were at this time quiet for Bannier having retired his Army to Magdeburg and quartered it in that Bishopricke attended the recruiting and refreshing thereof that afterwards hee might undertake some action and the Elector kept likewise in his quarters to prepare for the taking of Magdeburg a place of great concernment for him being seated in the very middle of his dominions and an important Passage when on this side in Alsatia the Imperialists knowing how little good they could doe in Lorayne which was well guarded by the French and their want of Forrage and Victuals increasing daily resolved to make Wert goe with his Forces from about Ramberviller and to passe into Flanders which Province was greatly threatned by a powerfull French Army that was in Picardy and no lesse by the Hollanders who instigated and fomented by the French made considerable preparations to appeare in the field and to doe some famous act Wert comming into Lucemburg and desirous to quarter his Souldiers in the Territories of Leidge hee was forbidden to doe so by order from the Magistrate thereof At which he being scandalized and having caused some Country-people to be put to death who would oppose him with weapons in their hand those Citizens mightily incenst thereat and becomming the bolder for that the French Forces were not farre off from whom they might hope for assistance and protection they presently tooke up Armes and sent 5000 Souldiers with some Cannon against Wert declaring themselves for the French protesting much and making great complaints to the Court of Brussells But this breach though it held for some dayes was afterwards accommodated for the Imperialists having past the Mosa and joyned with Picolominy who was likewise in Luxemburg ready to succour Flanders it behoved them to retire into their City which seeing it selfe beset on all sides its Territories ruined and having little hope of succour from the French as they earnestly had requested willingly could have wisht it had not been so forward in the demonstration it had made Yet did it not seem any wayes to recede for the Citizens thereof knew very well that Princes who stand in need of other mens friendships in their affaires know how to use such meanes as may preserve their friendships and not exasperat them but for Sallies and providing for Defence they did not a little perplex the Caesarians in their indeavouring to offend the City which injoying freedome and being seated upon the Mosa in a Country very considerable between Maestrickt which was possest by the Hollanders and Mamure not far distant from the Frontiers of France being likewise full of warre-like people it would have been very prejudiciall for the Spaniards interest in Flanders if laying neutralitie aside it should by the assistance of the French and Hollanders have declared it selfe an Enemy to Spaine which had received much of emolument from thence and in particular in their levies of the Walloons who are esteemed the best Souldiers in their Army Orders were therefore sent to the Dutch Commanders from Brussells that they should proceed more gently with those war-like people there being no likelihood of any other event but the making of them desperate which would be prejudiciall to the Austrian affaires But those Imperiall Commanders who were accustomed to the quarters of Germany where all licentiousnesse is used and who as Caesars Souldiers pretended they were to be entertained in all States comprehended within the Empire would notwithstanding use violence by which they did so incense those people as that preparing more and more for Warre they by their fierce sallyes did much indammage the Austrian quarters who being at last inforc't to goe against the French Forces and dispairing to effect their desires nor well seeing how they could effect them they accorded and left all differences to be reconciled by the Elector of Cobn. While affaires went thus the Duke of Parma was in Paris with the French King by whom he was courteously and affectionately received and being informed how the Spaniards continued upon his Territories and that they persisted to use hostilitie therein he earnestly begg'd assistance from his Majestie and having got a favourable answer and sure promise of ayde he tooke his leave of the King the Duke of Orelans the Cardinall Richelieu and all the other Princes and returned post to Montferrat that he might prepare to passe into his owne Countrey with such French Forces as were in Piemont who were commanded by the King to accompany him till such time as a reall succour should arrive from France as had beene promised or that the French should make such a diversion as might cause the Spaniards looke to defend themselves and not to offend others But the Spaniards although they were advertised of all this lingred not knowing that if it were believed in the Court of France that the people for the King payd for so many was sufficient to doe the worke yet were they not such nor so many as ââre sufficient So as they probably fore-saw that Crequi not having so great a strength nor desirous to appeare needfull of more helpe would feed Parma with hopes propound difficulties to the Court of France and keeping himselfe in his quarters at Montferrat would leave the Duke to the mercy of the
good Masters so he seconded by his warlike genious learnt in this famous Schoole that exquisitnesse which is required in a perfect Captaine Going afterwards from Holland hee visited all the chiefe States of Europe and through a generall knowledge which he acquired he knew so worthily and so judiciously to behave himselfe as that his subjects reverenced him out of duty loved him out of affection and out of gratitude adored him the Souldier out of wonder admired him and tooke glory to obey him and happy was the man who by any action could out-strip another that so he might obtaine thankes from him or but one gracious word The gravity of his Condition mixt with his affability to inferours won the praise of all Tongues hee lived like a Prince did like a Souldier and treated like a Companion he past away his leasure houres in exercising his Armes in the perusall of good bookes and in drawing and designing hee had wont to say a Prince had no greater Enemy then rest that when the body was at quiet the mind was most unquiet and that the labour of the body did quiet the intellect hee affected not pompe he was not subject to ambition hee used no subtleties hee held that gravity in a Souldier was a vizard or maske which made men mistake how hee was affected for to him that makes honour his chiefe and the greatest incitement he can have and the greatest reward he can receive is honour He said That such men were like disguised mulitiers who being set upon a couragious Horse and thinking it to be their accustomed Mule they through indiscretion runne head-long upon the rocks of hatred and desperation Fishes by the Hooke and Birds in a Net are taken with such baits as are proper for their nutriture not with meat contrary to their nature He put no greater a valuation upon lascivious men nor accounted them no better then women He said He could not thinke they had any heart who taking it off from glory had basely imprisoned it in the sickly thoughts of fading pleasure Anger lasted no longer in him then did the fire last which first kindled it as he was apt to take up anger so was he apt to lay it downe even like a fire of straw He mightily blamed those who reserving a private hatred in their breast did revenge themselves by their Princes hand and detested their actions who armed with their Princes Authoritie made use thereof to compasse their owne odde ends He affirmed It was a signe of basenesse to resent any thing done by an inferiour or one of lesse power That not to consider ones private passions when the publique interest was in question was the effect of a generous mind In briefe he was very punctuall in care of preserving his good name which imploying all his indeavours thereunto he obtained and he was constant in his desire to be thought constant to his friend or wherein his freind was concern'd as not regarding even reason of State when his promise was once past he would rather be thought indiscreet then false of his word Nay he would maintain that reason to be false which will have a Prince to be like a clock which stands still or goes about onely as driven by the counterpoise of his owne interest alledging that those Princes who so easily tack about distrusting all men though they become not a prey to their Enemy they rest at last inslaved to their owne minds for their feare of repenting is sure to make them repent To conclude if the Landsgrave who was knowne to be one of the worthiest Princes of all Germany had knowne how to hide at least to dissemble his perfect hatred against Romanists no doubt but his very Enemies would have commended him and have confest him to have beene a Prince that deserved all honour and a better condition But both by his tongue and his deeds he exprest himselfe too bitterly against them upon all proffered occasions and otherwise then became the qualities he was indowed withall which did much lessen his renowne Amongst many things he said He had wont to insist much upon one though upon false grounds to wit that it might be permitted to some of regular orders of Fryers to keepe Academies and Schooles of seculiar Sciences alledging for his reason that every religious order being like a Re-publique which alwayes aimes at its owne preservation and interest of greatnesse by seasoning their Pupills during their younger yeares in the rules of their severall orders they make them onely fit for a Pulpit or Quire and so deprive their Prince of many a Subject who if imploy'd in the Warres or State-Affaires might have proved very beneficiall to their King and to their Kingdome The Duke of Savoy who was come to Vercelles upon the newes of the Spaniards being upon those Territories was there suddenly seized upon by an indisposition of health which suddenly bereft him of his life on the 7th of October to the great griefe of his Duchesse and of all his Subjects for having left behind him onely two Sonnes and one Daughter all of them very young and incapble of government they knew that by this death no small troubles would arise throughout Piemont He was of an aspect not unpleasing of a reasonable stature and curteous in his behaviour as are all the Princes of that Family He governed himselfe very wisely he by his wisedome compast all his actions and by dexteritie knew so well how to cover his weaknesse as he was esteemed of and held by many for a much knowing man If on the Mothers side he had partaken some of her Fathers Character and had shared of his owne Fathers conditions he might have been truely tearmed Son of that great Charles whose worth and vertue no tongues are able sufficiently to celebrate and Heire not onely to his Principalitie but Intellect also if Fortune which smiles not alike upon all had suffered him to governe in another conjuncture of time He seemed to be more inclined to Peace and quietly to increase his State then addicted to the novelties of Warre He governed himselfe with much Policy in all his Affaires making it appeare he trusted more to his wisedome then to his daring He lived a friend to glory indeavouring greatnesse and and coveting esteeme He therefore invented the title of Regall Altezza He made new pretences not formerly found out by his Predecessours And thinking better of himselfe then his Forces would make good he seemed more by the prerogative of his birth then by the increase of his Dominions to pretend to a greater esteeme then his Predecessors had He was a good Prince for his Subjects but not for his friends his principall scope being his owne proper interst and having no other particular affection He dyed when he was 51 yeares old a bitter death since by nature he might have lived many yeares longer but very well to be borne withall and no wayes to be wondred at by one whose
And their intentions being to cut the Dikes which keepe in the water that so they might drowne the Territories about Antwerpe and thereby facilitate the surrender of the City they passed forward and tooke the Forts of Hemband and Trarembacke and came with their Trenches before the Fort of Saint Mary but here Count Nassaw found not such fortune as hee desired For the Marquesse of San Federato comming into the succour thereof with many troopes of Souldiers and the Hollanders not being able to raise their Batteries by reason of the low scituation of the place they were on and being continually plaid upon by thirty piece of Cannon from the Fort of Saint Mary it behooved them to retreat And as usually retreates beget feare and confusion so did the souldiers shew lesse fervour in their actions now then when they were enheartned by successe Count Nassaw notwithstanding would not quit the Enterprize but hoped when hee should receive the addition of men which hee expected hee might easily compasse his desires which did so frighten the people as forsaking their owne houses they hastily fled into the strong holds and the Citizens of Antwerpe were not lesse afraid strongly suspecting least the enemie might hold intelligence with some of the City But this enterprize conteining in it considerable consequencies and being of very great importance caused the comming in of the Spaniish Forces led in by the Infanta against the Hollanders accompanied by Picolomeny Isemburg Bucquoi and Feria with other chiefe Captains of Warre who comming boldly on after a long dispute the Spaniards prevailed and being encouraged by the Infanta's presence who did by his owne example invite his men to fight and the Hollanders being much the weaker and not able to make head against the Austrians who came still upon them with great strengths they thought it best not to joyne Battell but to keepe themselves within the advantage of their own stations till such time as the Prince of Orange being acquainted with their condition and they being re-inforced by timely succours they might undauntedly fate the Spaniards For the chiefe of all other directions which the States give unto their Captaines being that they should have a care to the preservation of their men and not hazard themselves upon any uncertain Battell since one bad encounter would very much endanger those Provinces it not being so easie for them to raise new Forces which are not to be had without much labour and great expence of money William of Nassaw who had taken upon him the guidance of that affaire not thinking it fitting time to exceed his Masters Commission kept himselfe within the advantage of his position hoping that by his keeping there till the arrivall of the Prince hee might easily have repulsed the Spaniards But as it oft times chances that things fall not out according to fancy the Spaniards falling on without delay upon the Hollanders who were not able to withstand their violence being invironed on all sides and the Bridge which they had throwne over the Scheld being at the same time broken by the great presse of people the greatest part that were on this side the River were either slaine or taken prisoners The Romanists pursuing their victory recovered ther former Forts and rendred the attempt vaine on which the Hollanders had built so great hopes The Siege before Brisacke continued all this while and Duke WEYMAR confident of good successe continued his Workes and Trenches as well against the Towne as against the succour whereat the Austrians being not a little grieved and in particular the Duke of BAVARIA who had mustered a great many men under the Conduct of Ghets all the Imperiall Commanders were charged that they should come up to the Bavarian Army that they should then passe over the Danube at Dutlinghem and doe their utmost to remove WEYMAR from that Siege Ghets thought it a difficult businesse to set upon the Sweedes on this side the Rhene where the Enemies greatest strengths were wherefore he past over the Rhene to try whether he could get into Brisacke on that side or no. But WEYMAR who was much concerned in the taking of this place as well in his reputation as in his worldly respect being faithfully informed of all things that past by his Spyes and by some Protestants of Wertemberg who hated the Romanists and Austrians threw a Bridge over the Rhene betwetne Brisacke and Brussells and was very vigilant in observing the Imperiallists wayes who for want of Forrage being to enlarge their quarters afforded the Sweedes occasion to surprize one of their quarters and to evill intreate the Regiments of the Collonels CORPUS HOORST and REIGOTOCH who being set upon at unawares and not able to draw out in good order lost about five hundred Souldiers and fourteen Colours and made Ghets know that this was not the way to succour that Towne but that keeping quiet till the arrivall of more Forces his best course would be to try the other side of the Rhene where he might be much advantaged by the sallyes which those within the FORT might make at the same time and by the Cannon from the Towne which commanded the fields round about He therefore rose from his Quarters hee was in and passing backe againe over the Rhene hee encamped himselfe neare Offemberg with intention to keepe there till by new Orders and fresh recruites hee were made able to effect the necessary and desired succour The Spaniards having planted their Cannon against VERCELLES and drawing by their covered Workes nere unto the Walls though they were replyed upon by the besieged with reciprocall valour and stout sallyes yet the Cardinall of VALETTE knowing that strong places are oft times lost for lacke of succour and wisely weighing in his Councell of Warre the difficulties hee should meete withall in bringing succour thereinto hee bethought himselfe how hee might effect his desires by stratagem To this purpose he sent eight hundred Foote under the name of one of their Leaders who were willingly received as a party of their owne which passing by some Sconces carelesly looked unto by the Spanyards they meeting with nothing to hinder them conveyed about 600. Foote into the Citie Whereat Leganes was much incensed and by reason thereof caused two Coronets of Horse to be be-headed the one belonging to the Company of Don Diego Menesses the other to Vincenza Della Marra But these being but a few men in regard of the many the Town needed whose walls were of a large precinct the French advanced towards the Sesia and possessed themselveâ of a little Island in the midst thereof and raising there a greaâ Plat-forme they plaid continually upon the Spanish Quarters with 14. piece of Cannon Leganes finding that without speedy and fitting remedie hee should be hereby much gauled and forced to quit the enterprize he considered what best course was to be taken and found there was none likelier to take effect then diversion He therefore caused a great body