there and thought he lay idle there some days expecting the Colleagues yet he kept the Enemy in suspence they not knowing where this so great a preparation would first fall Doubtlesly they minded most to assault that part which the Millanois call beyond the Poe in which to boot with the Cities of Alessandria and Tortona the Town of Valenza is scituated upon the right hand of the Poe just over against la Lomellina which though it were but badly defensible either by scituation or art was notwithstanding of great consequence in respect of the Poe which dividing this part from the rest of the State and there being no other Town upon the whole extent of her banks fit for the casting over of a bridge therefore â—…as when it was held by the Spaniards it kept both parts of the State joyned together by that bridge so being lost and the two parts disjoyn'd the one part could not well assist the other it was therefore to be feared that if Valenza should be lost all that part of the State would soon be taken and that the other part being thereby weakned and cut off from the Sea they should be totally debar'd all Maritime succour so as this being added to the loss of the Valtoline it was cleerly seen how great a loss to the State of Millain the taking of Valenza would prove the inconvenience grew the greater for that the Duke of Parma being alienated the accommodation which that part being lost his territories could give for bringing relief by Sea was also lost so as it was probable that Valenza would be the first place that the enemy would fall upon and therefore the Cardinal who was the Governour and the other Officeâ—…s were troubled how to withstand this so imminent danger their forces being weakned and their Souldiers exhausted especially since those few that were left to defend the State were sent for a little before to keep Flanders from being assaulted by the French and Hollanders to the slenderness of the forces was added the weakness of government the Cardinal who was Governour was by profession a Church-man and little or not at all vers'd in what belonged to war though Don Carlo Colonna a Commander long trayn'd up in the wars of Flanders by orders from the King commanded in chief the forces of the State but Marquess Spinola who was General of the Horse and of a susperior quality quitting his own command upon this occasion as not induring to be commanded by him chose to serve as a private Volunteer the other Captains though they did not openly refuse to serve yet did it but unwillingly so as the disagreement and disaffection of the Commanders being added to the weakness of the forces made the defence dangerous the danger was yet great for fear lest the Duke of Rohan a Commander of known fame might fall with his men from the Valtoline into some other part of the State and might so divert those few forces which being all joyned together were not sufficient to defend one part or that joyning with others he might make the assault the sorer amidst these dangers the Duke of Parma who had never been provoked by any hostile act stuck not to be the first that entred armed into the State of Millain in hostile manner with seven thousand Foot and one thousand Horse all very well appointed about the beginning of September he was not above twenty four years old but being sprightly and building rather upon certainties then hopes he at first entred the territories of Tortona and crossing over those of Allessandriae thought to joyn with the Marshal who was in the Villata and with the Duke of Savoy who expected his speedy joyning with his Piemontese in this enterprise and not being well entred into the State of Millain he encountred twenty five thousand Foot divided into two bodies at Ponte Carone the one Spaniards led on by Don Gasparod ' Azevedo the other Neapolitans conducted by Philippo Spinola sent from Naples by the Vice-roy Monterei and landed but a little before in the Seas of Genoa Azevedo marcht foremost who not tarrying for Spinola who followed half a days match'd behind he fought the Duke and being at the first shot in the head with a Musket he fell down dead wherefore the Spaniards though for a while they resisted valiantly yet being exceeded in numbers they were routed and put to flight the Duke hoping hereby for greater things and being glad that he had begun so fortunately went more couragiously forwards but he had lost many of his men part whereof were slain in the fight part disbanded in the march he found the Marshal at Piovera who was come thither with his men to guide him and secure him in his march and turning with him back he encamped before Valenza where assigning the lower bank to the Duke for his quarters and the upper bank to the Marquess Villeroy who had some French Regiments with him he himself kept with his men upon a hill behinde the Town which being block'd up on all sides could receive no succour from any part but onely by a bridge of Boats which was thrown over the Poe the Town was not thought able to hold out longer then six days either by those that were within or those that were without and those of the Spanish Army were so full of this opinion as they cared not to defend it thinking it better to quit it and spare those few Captains and Souldiers lives in this so great scarcity of men which if they should tarry to defend it must necessarily be lost so as they were much astonished and confused not knowing whether they should adventure the lives of the Defendants not to lose the Town or not to lose the Defendants abandon a place of such importance to this was added that there being none to command in Chief there but onely he who was trusted with it in time of peace and whom they that were to enter would not obey it behoved to send one of better quality and experience thither Marquess Spinola one upon whom the eyes of all men were bent though come thither as a Volunteer before the Marshal went from Villata had begun to make some fortifications but would not take the place upon him it being far inferior to the place of General of the Horse which he must then lay aside and it was refused by all others fearing lest they might lose either their lives or honours there or peradventure both so as they inclined rather to spare their men then to defend the Town which they held as good as lost already it hapned that when the Marshal went from Villata to meet the Duke of Parma the Spaniard observed that he left Valenza behind him and took the way towards Allessandria and afterwards towards Tortona so as they imagined he would first go to the taking of some one of those Cities wherefore Marquess Spinola went with some few Souldiers into Allessandria where General Colonna was
to Colonel Imperiale he headed them with his sword in his hand and plucking the Stakes from out the Steccado wherewith the whole ditch was environed he was one of the first that got upon the Parapet all the rest moved by his example followed him so as most of the Garrison were slain and the Ensigne and Captain were taken prisoners The succour past on the mean while without any disturbance and advanced with their Boats which falling down the stream came happily to the Shore at Valenza and by them as much relief as was desired was conveyed in the Enemy looking on who endeavoured in vain to hinder it with their Cannon and Musket shot from the Capuchins Chappel By this succour the Town was not only well provided of all things needful but wholly freed from Siege for the Colleagues despairing to make further progress foreseeing that by the approaching winter the earth would become so spungie as it would not be to be wrought and that the Army being bemired and not able to receive any food would be besieged even in the open field they resolved after fifty days siege to give over the Enterprise and to retreat to the no little confusion of the Commanders in chief who being at variance within themselves and unsatisfied laid the fault of this ill-guided Siege one upon another The Duke of Parma parted not long after much discontented for France where he intended to give a clear and full relation unto the King how Affairs had been carried in this Enterprize and to desire to be protected by him and to be defended in his Dominions which when this business miscarried he apparently foresaw was exposed to the invasion of the Spanish Forces for his having sided with France But this happy success was a little overcast by the death of Colonna who through his extraordinary pains taken in this Siege died the day before the Town was relieved Valenza being freed the Colleagues Army dissolved The Duke of Savoy retreated with his men to Vercelli and the Marshal to Cassalle upon whom the Gates of the Town were shut upon pretence that there being scarcity of Victuals in that City it could not provide food for so great a number of men without evident danger of wanting necessary nourishment for them that were in the Town already wherefore he was forced to divide his men amongst the Towns of Montferrat which though they suffer'd the like want of victuals yet being weak and unable to refuse giving quarter they were forced to yield to the stronger power the remainder of the Duke of Parma's men were likewise distributed into the same Towns the Duke himself being retreated to Cassalle where he had the Castle given him for his lodging on the Spaniards side their Armies were also put into their Winter quarters except some of Serbellone's Brigades which were sent to recover the Valtoline for at the same time which was about the beginning of November Fernamont who had raised more men in Tirvolo prepared to pass the Mounâ—…ains once more to reduce the Valtoline into its former condition to this purpose he had sent to Millain and to Serbellone to agree upon the time when they should fall upon the French joyntly Serbellone on the State of Millains side and he by Tyrvolo that so they might effect their business the sooner and more safely but Rohan's speed prevented these designs who hearing how neer the Dutch were sent immediately 1000 Foot to Bormio whither not long after he himself came with the remainder of his men being come thither he found the Dutch fallen down by unknown ways into the Plain without any delay he once more assaulted them and not without loss on their side forced them to re-pass back over the Mountains to Tyrvolo they being gone Rohan leaving a Garrison in Bormio and fearing lest Serbellone might fall upon him on his back and hearing that many Grisons were come down to assist him he made the like haste as before and brought 4000 Foot with him amongst which 200 Zuricani he appeared unexpected at Morbegno about noon where Serbellone was with 3500 Foot and 200 Horse and not having heard of the rout given to Fernamont expected news of his coming to the end that according to appointment he might at the same time fall upon the enemy on the back but he fared no better then Fernamonte for whilst he was at dinner he unexpectedly was assaulted by Rohan and not having time to assemble his men who were dispers'd into the parts thereabouts he was soon overcome and routed many of his Captains being slain or taken prisoners amongst which the Count di San the second Captain of Horse and Count Valenza Nephew to Serbellone and Serbellone's self being pursued by the enemy fled to Fort Fuentes wounded in the arm and on the back such Souldiers as could save themselves fled some one way some another way to the neerest Towns of the State of Millain Thus Rohan having beaten the enemy the fifth time remained all that Winter master and peaceful possesser of the Valtoline of the Counties of Bormio and of Chiavenna and greatly rejoycing forc'd the Inhabitants to new agreements pretending that the Valtoline contrary to the Articles of Monsone was wholly and totally fallen into the arbitrement of the King of France and not being able to obtain of those Inhabitants though beaten by his Forces and several ways oppress'd any thing of what he demanded he began by strange rigour and extortion to tyrannize over them but they little confiding in the promises of liberty and maintenance of their Religion which were made them in the King of France his name patiently underwent their bad treating and would never forego the authority and protection of the Crown of Spain promising themselves and confidently believing to be preserved and maintain'd by the King of Spain in their intire Liberty and Religion according to his Promises and Decrees miserable and woful wretches whom you shall soon see abandoned to their former yoke of slavery by those in whom they so much trusted and for whose sake they suffer'd so much at the present The End of the Fourteenth Book THE HISTORY OF THE WARS OF ITALY BOOK XV. The Contents THe King of Spain for the preservation of the State of Millain sends a new Governour new men and good store of money thither The Duke of Savoy returning thither with his men and with those of France takes Bremi and reduceth it to a Fort Royal and by frequent inroads troubles that side of the Country The Duke of Parma's Dominions are assaulted by the Spanish Forces after his going for France and are defended by Marquess Villa who is sent thither by the Duke of Savoy With a good strength of Horse and Foot and is defended by strong diversions till the Spring in the beginning whereof the Duke of Parma returns from France endeavours by means of the Colleagues Forces to get into his Country goes to Nizza Della Paglia being to throw down
to keep his men within the Walls would not go out they did not only give themselves to better the Fortifications which they there found but joyned another Fort which they themselves made to that which the Prince had erected above the Monastery which commanded all the other Fortifications even those of the Bridge they likewise fortified the heads of the Bridge better and extending their Trenches towards the Burrough they placed a very strong Garrison there of 2000 Foot and 1000 Horse which were commanded by Count Plessis Pralin the rest of the Army was distributed into several quarters about the City the Inhabitants whereof were the same day so enclosed within their walls by theenemies Army as they could not hear news of any succour from the Governour unless it were by various inventions which they found and which did often deceive them by which they inform'd the Governour of what streights they were in and sometimes received hopes of succour The Governour was much troubled at the scarcity of powder that was in the City wherefore he sent Carlo della Gatta with 2000 Horse to Inurea that he might endeavour by a greater force to bring in that Ammunition which was left there but it proved in vain for la Gatta being come with that Ammunition to Cassalle five miles from Turin and having found conveniency to inform the Prince of all things he was willed by him to retreat for that it was impossible for him to get into the City he being first to overcome La Stura and La Dora which were then munited with strong French Garrisons but in his return passing thorough the Canavese he found the Town of St. Mauricio taken again by the French and ready to be sack'd which he freed with the death of all the French whom he put to the sword Harcourt kept this mean while in the Vallentino expecting that the people should rise in the City as the Prince and the Governour did when they came first before it the preceding year But this proved in vain for for all that he could do there was not any one amongst the Souldiers who was discover'd to comply with the Dowager or were blemish'd so much as with any such thought but all of them during the whole siege proved faithfull to the Prince Wherefore Harcourt failing every day more and more of effecting his desire by that way he try'd another La Dora falls a little above the City by a cleft into a Channel which conveyes water to the Mills which serve the people with grist He therefore gave order that that cleft should be dam'd up with earth by night so as the Mills not being able to go for want of water the City which abounded in Corn began to want bread For there were onely two hand-mills within the Town which could not possibly supply so great a multitude with grist so as the City was in a short time like to be famish'd for want of bread though it abounded in Corn. Harcourt resolved to reduce the City yet to greater extremities and to make it altogether despair of succour with hopes whereof being fed it patiently suffer'd all hardships For at last he began to draw a line of Circumvolution which beginning from the bank of the Poe about a Musket-shot above the Vallentino ran along the plain towards the West and came to the Church Della Crocetta just over against the Citadel and then winding about the Citadel came to the great Edifice called La Porporata and continued to the Dora crossing with it came to the little house which is called Bianchina and then declining by the Madalene to the mouth of the same River where being broken off by the source or course of water it was reassumed again and terminated in the neighbouring banks of Poe a compass of eight miles which being furnish'd with small Forts and other works was divided into six quarters wherein the French and Piedmontese Armies were thus distributed Count Plessis Pralin the first Marshal of the Camp was quartered from the bridge to the Parco This quarter contained within it the Burgo and the fortifications of the bridge and of the Capuchins hills From Vallentino where the line began towards La Crochetta and so forwards towards La Porporata La Dora and Le Cassine divia d' Albera was General Harcourt quartered and with him the Viscount Di Turenna Camp-marshal of the French Horse The Circumvolution made a great bow from one bridge upon the Dora to another bridge below the Parco and neer the Poe to which La Dora served as a string wherein Ill Signeior della Motta Odencourt field Marshal was first quarter'd who commanded a small body part Foot part Horse who were left by Duke Longueville and were subordinate onely to General Harcourt But afterwards the Porparata was assigned him for his quarter together with a good part of the line on both sides and with him were Villa and Pianezza quartered with the French and Piedmontese Horse The Citizens of Turin saw themselves thus surrounded and as it were imprisoned and were not able of themselves to break the line which did not onely threaten their liberties but their lives and fortunes And in these great streights all their hopes lay in being relieved by the Governour which they were day by day inform'd should be ere long For he having rallied his men and re-inforced his Camp was come from Vercelli to Crescentino and by a bridge thrown over the River there marched straight to Cheri where having stay'd some days to get his men together he endeavour'd by all possible means to get neer the City to free both it and the Prince from fiege in which time the Prince desirous either to try the Enemies Forces or to give a trial of his sally'd very strong both in Horse and Foot by night out of the City and fell upon Motta's quarter which was at the Magdalene beyond the Dora and charging him whilst they were all a sleep his men entred even into the Rendezvous of Arms of that quarter wounding and killing many before they could put themselves in a defensive posture which proved not such but that after having done them much prejudice the Prince might get to within the shelter of the Cannon of the City whereinto he retreated with little loss to himself and more to the Enemy This action revived the spirits of the besieged and much more the bringing back of the water of Dora to the Mills which was done by the Citizens a great band whereof back'd by a squadron of Musketiers went out of the City and coming to where the water was dam'd up broke as much of the earth which closed the orifice as made way enough for water to turn four wheeles and the next night the current of the River broke down the rest so as the water came plentifully into the Channel much to the comfort of the City which thereby got bread enough To these two happinesses which amidst so many evils appeared to
be great ones a third yet greater was added at the same time The relieving Army appear'd at the last upon the highest of the Capuchins hills on the twentieth day after the Enemy appeared and the one and thirtieth after the business of Cassalle In this Army were 4000 Horse 700 Dragoons and 12000 Foot to whom were added no small recruits both of Foot and Horse sent by the Prince Cardinal and 600 Mountainers who being by the War driven out of their houses had desperately taken up Arms. This so goodly Army was not onely a terror but a wonder to the French who thinking that the whole Spanish Forces had been defaced by the Victory gotten at Cassalle could not believe that they could be so soon got together and brought to dispute the business with them and being but few in number themselves and not sufficient to munite so great a Oircumvolution they much doubted what the success would be the Governour was fully resolved to do nothing herein but was furthest out of the reach of fortune and what might be gotten with least danger and effusion of blood Wherefore be resolved to bring the relief by that part of the hills which was scituated a long the River of Poe and particularly there where the Enemy had fortified above the Covent of the Capuchins and the bridge and where when they should have taken the Fort which was built by the French and which was above them all they might command all the lower fortifications and the bridge in which case he might have an open way to come with his men to the City and not onely bring what relief was requisite to the besieged but by discomfiting the Enemy would have raised the siege and would have largely revenged himself for the blow he received before Cassalle This design would have succeeded happily if the Governour had been so diligent in executing it as the Prince was in assisting him For guessing by the appearing of the relieving Army from those hills and the rather by some lights that the Governour would assault the upper Fort that very night he went out when it grew duskish with all his men out of the Town and drew neer the bridge intending to assault it when he should hear the assault given from above by which being likely to make a great diversion he might have much assisted the Governour in his assault But the Governour who would consult with his Commanders what was to be done concerning the main affair before he would do any thing put off the execution till the next day by which delay the Prince being frustrated in his expectation retired to the City and the French were very careful to lay bare the Fort that very night taking the earth from it towards the Enemies Camp and so made it unacceffible and impregnable And because they saw all the Enemies force drawn up thither they called all the best Souldiers and Commanders of the Camp as if Harcourt foresaw how much the getting or losing of Turin lay in the keeping or loss thereof The Governour seeing the next day how hard the taking of that place was made by that nights work he forbore assaulting it and kept four days upon those Hills upon which having raised some batteries he played upon the lower fortifications and the French that they might free themselves of that molestation sallied out one night very strong upon the Enemies Works to the end that if they got no other good else thereby they might at least cloy the Ordnance and free themselves of the mischief they received thereby but meeting with stout resistance they were repuls'd with loss and forc'd to retreat to their own fortifications And yet the Governour knowing that the laying of them level with the ground made but little for the main business and that to beat down Forts which would be continually repaired by the neighbouring Army was to no purpose and that the City being streightned on many sides he resolved to change his quarters and to go to Montcalleri which is a great Town upon the right hand of the Poe a little above Valentino where there is a wooden bridge over the River which is strong and safe enough which the Governour thinking to make himself master of that he might pass thereby over the River when he could not do so by that of the Capuchins he when he came first upon the hills sent a Regiment of Dragoons to take the Town and Bridge The Town was abandoned at the first appearance of the Dragoons and the Bridge was at the same time burnt so as the taking of the Town made nothing at all for the Governours purpose for he must find means to make another good and solid Bridge whereby to pass over his Army if he would effect the intended succour he therefore ordered Carlo della Gatta to go with a good strength of men to Montcalleri and to throw over another Bridge a little above that which the French had burnt where two Islands were made by the Poe which were very commodious for the passage La Gatta went thither and past over 500 Souldiers in boats to the other shore under Serjeant Major Lomelino by which those who defended the further shore being beaten back he began a Fortification upon the bank which he had won that it might serve to keep back the enemy if they should oppose the throwing over of the Bridge but as soon as Harcourt heard of the enemies being past over and of the Fortifications which they made there considering of what importance it might be if the enemy should enter on that side and accost their Trenches he forthwith sent the Viscount di Turenna to disturb the Work who went with a great body of Musketiers and was followed by Harcourt's self with a great strength of men to back him if there should be occasion The place where Lomelino fortified himself was environed for the most part with a great ditch full of the water of the Poe the Souldiers being afraid and not daring to pass over it Turenna to upbraid their cowardliness threw himself with some of the chiefest that were about him into the ditch and undauntedly past over it though the water came up to his breast the Souldiers being thereby encouraged did all follow him and surrounding the enemy who were busie in fortifying themselves and others coming in by where the ditch came short a fierce Skirmish began wherein the assaulted not able to save themselves by retreating fought stoutly but Turenna who fought amongst the foremost receiving a sleight hurt in the heat of the conflict was reported to be dead at which the assailants grew so enraged as being recruited by new men which continually came in they began to fight desperately killing not only those who fought but those who yielded and being superiour both in number and in force they slew them all part whereof perish'd by the sword and part were drowned in the water Lomelino's self who was taken prisoner could find
possess'd by the Enemy and were both of them a great help to defend the City The Army being drawn neer the City and having at the very first taken the Suburbs they planted their Artillery against the walls trying if the Citizens would willingly surrender which they not doing they began their battery wherewith having made a breach Galeotti found the City was not to be defended wherefore they retired so hastily to the Castle as they had not time to carry their victuals along with them nor to break down the mils which were neer the walls things which did afterwards much accommodate the enemy who entring the City the fifth day when the Garrison had abandoned it and the City by the Bishops interposing surrendred upon condition So as the Enemy began immediately to begirt the Castle with Trenches and possess'd themselves of the Church Monastery of S. Dominico which stood between the City and the Castle the Garrison not having fortified it to keep from 〈◊〉 men in the defence thereof having hardly enough to defend the Castle And yet either foreseeing or already finding how prejudicial the taking of that Convent would be unto them they â—…ndeavoured to recoveâ—… it the next day by a stout sally but were forced to retreaâ—… The Duke sent the Horse afterwards to scour the Country who without resistance took the Castle Nuovo di Scrivia which Prince Thomaso chose for his quarters and having placed a quarter also in Pontecurone he took Voghera which threw the Gates open then turning upon the Towns and Villages thereâ—…bout he got good store of Victuals and brought it together with much more booty into the City but those who dwelt upon the hills resisted and preserved their goods and persons with much prejudice to their opposers the first and most important resolution of the opposers was to take Serravalle a Town scituated upon the way that leads to the Sea which being a place of great consequence whereby commerce with the Staâ—…e of Genoa was either block'd up or maintained the business was committed to Marquess Villa who going from the Camp with the Piedmont Horse and five French Regiments of Foot which in all made 1500 Horse and 3000 Foot he marched thitherward and took first Stasono which did willingly surrender and came afterwards to Serravalle where taking the Town without resistance he betook himself to the Castle whither the Garrison was retreated and where there was not any provision and yet it held out and afforded the Governour Siruela time who was very desirous to preserve that place to get together as many men as in so great streights he could from the Garrisons of the State of Millain and of the Towns in Piedmont having called Count Galliazzo Trotti from Asti and Don Vincenzzo Monsurio from Vercelli who by reason of the neighborhood of the State of Millain got into Allessandria without any hinderance with all their men Fra. Iovan Pallavicino Camp-master met with more difficulty and danger who was sent for by the Governour from Villa nova vvith order that leaving men and munition sufficient to keep that place from surprisal he should come into Allessandria vvith the rest vvhere the Governour stay'd expecting him to vvhich purpose he sent him â—…00 Horse to be his convoy Villa nova is neer upon 40 miles from the City of Alessandria in the midst of Piedmont neer to Towns strongly Garrison'd by the Enemy so as he was to march through the Enemies country which Pallavicimo did with much valour and speed and though he past very privatly to keep from being discover'd by the Enemy yet was he pursued by the Garrison of Carmagnuola which overtook him at the bridge of Villa Franca and strove to keep him from passing over it hoping to effect their desire by reâ—…son of 200 carriages which he brought along with him laden with warlike ammunition and also one Cannon so as they promised themselves clear victory with the slaughter of all his men and the getting of all his munition but Palavicino not at all abash'd at their approach placed himself with his ranks in order before the carriages and facing about made head against the Enemy and held them play till the Carriages and the Cannon past over the Bridge after which his men began to march in good order with their faces still towards the Enemy and still fighting who passing over after them did still pursue them till Pallavicino beâ—…ng come with his men to Gombino a Town two miles distant from the Bridge made himself master thereof and fortifyed himself in an advantagious place where he stay'd with his men in order expecting that the Enemy should advance but they not daring to assault him upon such disadvantagious tearms left pursuing him and retreated towards Carmagnuola suffering Pallavicino to pass freely into Allessandria whither he came safe with his men and carriages this so great recruite being so luckily come to the Governour was of great consequence for with them and with some other men that he had he made up a body of 5000 Foot and 300 Horse with the which marching into the field on the eighth of Octber he came to Fregarvola a Town neer Bosco intending to go from thence to Serravalle whither he had sent some Foot already that they might endeavour to get one after another into the Castle and though his men were fewer in number then the Enemy yet the Enemy being distributed into several quarters the Governour doubted not but that he being more in number then any one of the Enemies quarters his design might take effect Nor was he therein deceived for it fell out better then was expected the Duke of Longueville who was before Tortona with but a few men hearing of this expedition and fearing that the Enemy might fall upon some part of the Trenches which were ill provided of Defendants and might enter into the Castle and so into the City and cause some important mischief sent speedily back for all the Horse which were dispers'd abroad in several parts and brought them neerer Tortona and moreover sent for Marquess Villa from Serravalle who writ back that he thought it better to quit Tortona and be masters of Serravalle then to abandon Serravalle and come to before Tortona for that the way by Sea being block up on that part to the State of Millaln Tortona would not be able to hold out long and way would be made to further progress he therefore advised him to give over that Siege and to joyn with him in the taking of Serravalle but Longueville persisting in his own opinion redoubled his order with more efficacy Wherefore Villa leaving Serravalle though unwillingly forewent that Castle and the Town which he had already taken So the Governour having by the meer fame of his march luckily freed Serravalle which was held as good as lost he sent a sufficient Garrison thither to guard it and furnished it with munition keeping afterwards in the Town of Bosco he stay'd there to
good quantity of Powder towards the City This succour being conveyed privately between Fort Sandoval and a little Bulwark neer the Sesia was brought very neer the City but the Enemies Horse falling upon the Van it was presently defeated the middle Squadron throwing away their Ammunition foorded over the Sesia and got to underneath the Walls of the City whereof many being pursued even to the Ditch were many of them slain the third Squadron got safe back to the Duke In this action 120 were taken prisoners of which Orfe his Serjeant-Major Orfe's self having escaped luckily by flight On the Governours party Don Luigi di Leva was slain and Don Ottavio Gonzaga the Baron Batteville and Lodovico Guasco were wounded the first was found sorely wounded lying amongst the expiring bodies and died not long after the other two though sorely wounded also escaped death many of the middle Squadron got into the City but without their Ammunition so as the Town was not at all relieved by this attempt So as a second assault being suddenly given on several sides and which the defendants not being able to resist the assailanâ—…s appearing already with their Banneâ—…s upon the Walls the assaulted helped themselves by a false rumour crying give fire unto the Mine which being heard and believed by the assailanâ—…s who had been oft times strangely deluded they immediatelâ—… turn'd their backs and abandoning what they had taken fled away headlong which they did not without much loss for being pursued by the Enemy by Musket-shot whereof not any mist and with stones by such as wanted powder they were smitten sorely and doubtlesly if they had given less belief to the Enemies words or had kept longer upon the station which they had taken the business would hâ—…ve been this day dones for many of the defendants wanting powder they were forced to use their Pikes and Swords and two of the Spaâ—…ish Foot who had undauntedly advanced got as far in as to St. Andrews Church where one of them fell and the other being sorely wounded escaped death by Marquess Calusio his generosity who admiring so much valour in an Enemy commanded he should be no more moâ—…ested But in fine many of the defendants being wounded in those assaults amongst which Monsieur di Bles a French Commander their Ammunition being all spent and despaiâ—…ing either to be relieved or able to resist any longer they resolved to come to composiâ—…ion which the French were occasion why Calusio and all the Dukes Captains except it were Sanfrone consented unto for they finding that the Town could not hold out much longer thought they had done sufficiently enough in point of honour and in obligation to the Duke in whose service they thought themselves not bound obstinately to lose their lives he not being their natural Prince nor they fighting for their Country so Evangelista Tosti a Perugian Captain going out with the Governour and two Companies of Horse to Parley he demanded four days Truce which being positively denied the agreement was finally made upon these conditions That all the Ravelines Half-Moons Stations and Fortifications which were without the Wall should be delivered up the next day that the next day after all the Souldiers should march both out of the City and Citadel with Drums beating Trumpets sounding Bullet in mouth Match lighted Colours flying with all their Baggage two pieces of Cannon Mills Cattel Victuals and with every thing else that belonged unto them That they should have sufficient carriages allowed them to carry away their goods their wounded men and all their Implements besides many other Articles very favourable to those of Vercelles upon which conditions Hostages being given on both sides all things were performed with great fidelity and satisfaction there march'd out 4109 Souldiers part on foot part on horse back whereof 600 wounded who were carried in Carts and 300 staid in Vercelles not being able to be removed they marched through the Enemies ranks being praised by all for their valour The Marquess of Calusio and the Engineer Sanfrone were met by Don Piedro and the chief of the Army and honourably received by them and were accompanied by them to the Rendezvouz of Armes where they took their leaves the Governour having in a grave and civil manner shew'd Calusio the great mischief of war and the good which would redound by peace and therefore to offer the Duke the restitution of Vercelles if he would be quiet upon reasonable conditions which that they might the better be concluded he said he would be ready to speak by word of mouth with the Duke in any place of safety There died in this Siege besides those that have been already named Serbellone the Camp-master the Count of Monte Castello Brother to the Marquess of Soncino Don Garzia Gomes General of the Artillery Ieronymo Mormillo a Neapolitan and Lieutenant to Montenegro The Governour himself as he was visiting the Trenches was shot in a place where he wore aâ—…certain relique about his arm but received no harm Montenegro received a shot upon a Button of gold which he had on his Doublet but was not hurt the Siege continued from the 24th of May till the 26th of Iuly following The Duke was not succoured by the French as he hoped and as it was commonly held he would â—…ave been the Marshal Diguieres though he had often promis'd it nor any other of that Nation appeared in Piedmont whether they were stâ—…aitly commanded the contrary by the King whose commands they had formerly but little valued or whether corrupted by Spanish Gold it is not known it was known that for the one or the other respect there was pâ—…id at this time from the Court of Spain to the Duke of Montelion Embâ—…ssadour for Spain at Paris 200000 Ducates and also because the peace being hotly Negotiated at this time whereof the French were ambitious to be the Arbitrators who it may be thougâ—…t the King of Spain would be hardly brought to consent thereunto whilst â—…e had not the better of the War they intended to gratifie him by not opposing him in this enterprise not so much in respect that the parity of â—…greement between the King and Duke would be a dishonourable example to all great Kings as for that the King seeming to have â—…he better by the aking of Vercelles and therefore satisfied in point of 〈◊〉 â—…e might the more confidently and with more reputation conclude it by their Kings means and it was generally held that if the Duke had been assisted but a little by the French Vercelles had not been so easily taken for the Duke coming one night with those few men he had put the Spanish Camp into much fear and confusion left by assaulting some one place he might make his way through the Enemy to the City nor was the fear vain nor danger small for the besiegers being imploi'd in defending so many places in the so long circuit of the Trench and busied not so much in keeping the
grew afterwards somewhat stronger and got a little more field-room in the troubles and dangers which not long after befel the Genoeses at the which being but very little moved it was conceived that being herein also of intelligence with the other Confederates he was not less displeased to see business proceed successfully against Genoa then with those that had proceeded in the Valtoline The Valtoline being taken the Pope hearing the rumours which were spread abroad through Italy and in the Court of his intentions and seeing that all mens eyes were bent upon him he sent Bernardine Nari to Paris who was his Chamberlain and one that he loved very well and who was acceptable to that King as having been formerly a Page in that Court to complain of Coure's actions and shewing himself to be thereat offended he gave order for levying of men and made some other preparations for war which being unseasonable for what was past proved also unuseful for what was to insue for what remained he held very secret Consultations with the Cardinals and Embassadours of Savoy and Venice so as he seemed to continue his former Friendship and good Intelligence with them and that those his preparations were in order to somewhat else then for the recovery of the Valtoline or for the defence of the present state of Italy against the perturbers of her peace A little after the French entred and took the Valtoline under the Marquess Coure the Constable of France falling into Piedmont with about 14000 Foot amongst which were some Veterane Regiments and with 1500 Horse and joyning with the Duke of Savoy who had 14000 Foot and 2500 Horse together with much Artillery and Cannon for Battery they marched towards the State of Genoa the Constable being accompanied by his Son in Law Marquess Crickey and the Duke by his Son the Prince and were not only favoured by the Duke of Mantua who gave them free passage thorow the lower Montferrat but also by the season of the year which though it were in February 1625. yet contrary to the custom of that Country and to the season it self they were not hindred either by by ice or snow there was no title nor reason on the behalf of France for the war against Genoa nor were there any Heralds sent from that Court to demand or pretend unto any satisfaction for any offence done to that Crown by the Commonwealth nor was there any to be alledged nor did any of the French mention any end their King had in that enterprise save only some that vaunted that they went to free Genoa from being oppress'd as they said by the Spanish Tyranny others who were not so close let it sometimes slip out of their mouths that the King assisted the Duke of Savoy in resenting the injuries he received from the Genoeses by reason of the interest of alliance which he had with his family but when they were entred the State of Genoa they minded the making themselves masters of the Towns which they took and put Garrisons into them in the Kings name as belonging as they affirmed to the ancient Patrimony of France The Duke and Constable intended at very first to besiege the City of Genoa the Metropolitan of the whole State which not doubting but that they should easily take they thought they should find little difficulty in the rest of the enterprise news came at the same time that the Duke of Guise prepared a Fleet in Marcelles who having declared himself an enemy before any of the others had taken 150000 Ducates which being sent in small Vessels from Spain to Genoa came into the Ports of Province as into Friends Havens and it was given out that both that and the English Fleet would quickly appear in the Seas of Genoa The Commonwealth did not believe that the enemy would aim so high at the very first but that bending their first violence against the Western Seas and taking some important place they would fix their footing there and making it a Rendezvouz for Arms they would wait upon such occasions as time and condition of war would produce and proceed further afterwards and advance against the City wherefore they had distributed the greatest part of their best and most experienced men into the Towns of Savona Albenga 〈◊〉 Mauritio and Ventimiglia but receiving assured advertisement that the enemy was resolved the first thing they did to fall upon the City of Genoa they vaâ—…ed their form of defence and leaving Savona well Garrisoned which is a chief place of the State neerest the City and neerest the enemies Army they recalled all the rest of their people which were distributed along the River the greatest part whereof were presently sent to defend the Passes there are two ways which lead to Genoa from the lower Montferrat through which the Confederates Army past The one by Rossiglione which passing over the Apenine goes to Voltri a great Town upon the Sea ten miles Westward from the City the other by Gavio which passing also over the fame Apenine falls by the Valley of Poz Zevera to St. Pier d' arena two miles distant from the City towards the same side the latter being the more ordinary way for Carriages is more large and open and made more commodious and plain by Art as far as the situation will permit at the entrance into this way is Gavio a Town indifferently great but weak unless it be for a Castle seated on high and though little of no little consideration it is hard to bring Cannon by either of these ways and almost impossible by that of Rossiglione The Commonwealth therefore resolving to quit the defence of Novia and of Occada two great Towns the first beyond Gavio and the other beyond Rossiglione fell to fortifie Gavio and put 2000 Foot therein to defend it she also caused some Trenches and some Redoubts to be made beyond the straits of Rossiglione for the better security of that Pass for Garrison whereof were sent 2500 Foot by which and by the strength of the situation it appeared by the relation of experienced Commanders who were sent thither so secured as the Pass was thought almost invincible looking therefore 〈◊〉 the enemy would be longer detain'd they gave themselves with much study and industry to Munite the City which though it be walled about with great Walls and flank'd with good Bulwaâ—…ks yet being over-looked by Mountains which incompass it they chose to fortifie the top of those Mountains by a long continued Trench which beginning from the head of the Lanthorn which shuts up the Haven Westward should run upon the back of the Mountains and bending towards the East should descend into the Valley of Bisagno and should terminate there almost upon the point of Carignano which is the furthermost part of the City towards the East and because the Commonwealth knew she wanted a Commander in Chief who might be well experienced in war to whom they might commit the weight thereof
the French had done the like to those of Spain that were in France therefore the Duke and the Constable professing to observe punctually friendship and good correspondency with the States and Subjects of the King of Spain did not permit any act of hostility to their men and if any accident should happen to the contrary they proceeded to severe punishment against the Delinquents as done without their order thorow military licentiousness and excused themselves which was not only accepted by the Spanish Officers but seeding the French with the same food they assured them they should not be injured by their Forces many invitations were made moreover to the Duke and to the Constable and reciprocal friendly Offices past between them and upon complaint made by the Constable that some loads of Meal were taken by the Subjects of the State restitution was forthwith made the Governour who was unarmed being unwilling to provoke an Army which was strong and powerful upon his Confines but when he should have past the Apenine where the numbers of men would neither be an help nor hinderance it was certain he would not keep within the same bounds for it being as impossible to keep Genoa without the assistance of the State of Millain as to defend Genoa when that State should be lost it was apparent the Spaniards would be forced to break with all the World rather then to lose Genoa for these Reasons the Genoeses were reasonably well satisfied especially since they saw none of the Enemies Fleets appear but the Duke being desirous to clear the Pass of Rossiglione resolved to assault it with the gross of his Army on Holy-thursday the twelfth day after Ovada was taken the defendants who had had the better upon other occasions were afrighted to see so many men appear in good order so as distrusting not to be able to defend themselves they all basely forsook the Trenches before the Enemy came within Musket-shot and retreated unless it were a Company of the Corsicks which being placed higher made honourable resistance but afterwards fire taking in a Barrel of Powder at the blowing up whereof 20 of them were burnt and slain and seeing the places behind them abandoned they likewise forsook their stations and retreated to Rossiglione and the Enemy following their blow became masters of the Trenches and soon after of Rosâ—…iglione also which was likewise forsaken by the rest who making it a Rendezvouz for Arms for re-inforcing those who defended the more inward Trenches seeing that they all ran away they likewise begâ—…n to run so as the place together with the Victuals Munition Moneys to pay the Souldiers and other provisions fell without any opposition into the Dukes hands they continued running away till they came to the Sea only two Companies of Souldiers staid in Mansone where there was a little Castle very strong by reason of the narrowness of the Passage fifteen miles distant from Rossiglione towards the Sea wherein there was two small pieces and whither sufficient Victuals Men and Munition were sent from Genoa the Enemy entring Rossiglione past on to Campo a place only three miles more inward then Masone here they halted trying those of Masone with small Skirmishes and Articles of agreement who still defending themselves did manfully make good that Pass and that Castle all this while the new work of incompassing the Mountains with Trenches was hardly begun in Genoa the Walls of the City were not at all fortified and their Artillery whereof they had great store and very great ones were yet in their Magazines unmounted as in time of peace and lying one on the top of another they had no experienced Cannoneers little store of Match and the meaner sort of people was beyond measure increased by the concourse of women and others fled thither from the neighbouring parts for refuge the Souldiery which for a whole year were there assembled at the great charges and industry both of the publick and private much diminished those few that were left were sent to Garrison Gavi and Rossiglione and many of the latter were dissipated through the terrour of the preceding day 200 Neapolitans who at the earnest intreaty of Ianetto Spinola were by Iohn Ieronymo Pimontello sent to Tortona some days before what had hapned at Rossiglione as they past a long without thought of being assaulted were cut in pieces by the French wherefore the City appeared to suspect Feria as being abandoned in her so great danger so as the unexpected news of Rossiglione being brought to Genoa the City was in great terrour and confusion which increasâ—…d by the children old men and women of Vettri who flocking to Genoa full of fear and believing that the Souldiers of the Commonwealth who fled from Rossiglione and returned by the way of the Mountains towards the Sea were the Enemy affirm'd that Masone was taken and that the French did draw neer that therefore which befell Rome the City of Mars after the rout at Thrassimeno and Canna and at Hannibals approaching the Walls of Rome and of later times Paris when the Army of the Duke of Burgony and of the other Confederates in the War for the Common Good was heard to arrive and yet of later years when she feared to be assaulted by Charles the Fifths Army that which befel the Venetians after the Rout at Giaradadda befel the City of Genoa a City bred up for almost a hundred years in peace where there was not any that had ever heard the noise of an Enemies Drum or Trumpet some of the Gentlewomen went from the City some of the weaker sort of people fled others freed their houses of what they had of most value and worth and sent them to Ligorne The Senate amidst such a multitude of affairs and troubles hearing the opinion which was had of the greatness and neerness of the danger resolved forthwith to abandon Savona Gavio and all the other places of the State and to withdraw all their Forces to defend the City of Genoa upon whose safety and welfare all their thought were set therefore on Good-Friday the very day that they heard this news they sent all the Gallies that were in the Haven to Savona with order to the Commissaries that leaving the Citadel provided for they should presently return with all the inhabitants to the City Orders were likewise sent to Camp-master Doria in Ottaggio to do the like with all the Garrisons thereabouts and with those of Gavio the first Order was obey'd for on Easter Eve the Gallies returned from Savona with the people and Commissaries but not the other for Doria being experienced in warfare thinking it to be a rash resolution wrot back before he obeyed it that the Enemy having brought so many and so great pieces of Artillery by the way of Rossiglione there was no danger that they could possibly appâ—…oach the City without them and that the people might run danger of being lost if they should be brought away the Enemy being
before the City Walls and was very careful in preparing all things fitting for the enterprise but the Constable kept him from this resolution who being unwilling to leave Gavio behind his back which was well fortified and had a great Garrison in it it being an inlet for succour and a place of safety for the Enemy to retreat unto upon any occasion gave order for the expugning thereof before they should advance further The Duke thought it somewhat hard to foreslow the course of Victory but not being able to do otherwise he was forc'd to give way to the Constables will without which he could not prosecute the intended enterprise and because the Constable thought the loss too great which was received by the former assault given to place by the General of the Horse and the loss greater which was received before Ottaggio because they had proceeded in those actions according to the Military manner he would therefore proceed orderly in the taking of Gavio with Artillery Approaches and making of Trenches Captain Meazza Governour of the Garrison of that place labouring how to defend it and how to offend the Enemy by often sallies conceived such hopes as he writ to the Senate that he would make good that place for the space of ten or twelve days nor would he peradventure have failed to do it had not one who had gotten privately into Gavio given him some orders from Stefano Spinola and from the Resident for the Commonwealth with Feria at Millain whereby he was told that Feria thought it a better and safer way to preserve their men then to lose them together with the Town the preservation whereof was desperate that he should therefore give over the defence thereof and provide the best he could for the safety of the Garrison The Senate had writ to Meazza when they left the decision of the business to Feria that he should observe such Orders as he should receive from Spinola from Millain and they had written to Spinola that he should direct Meazza what to do touching the maintaining or abandoning of Gavio according as Feria should think fit hereupon Meazza about midnight without knowledge of the Townsmen went away with the Garrison of 3000 Foot towards Serravalle a Town lying towards the State of Millain about some five miles of but finding the ways bad and therefore having spent much time in his march he began to fear being surprized by the way the next day wherefore resolving to return back he did so with the like silence as he had come out that night and upon Articles to march out with his men the next day he yielded up the Town but not the Castle which was not at his disposal this third accident did again afflict the City which the day before the surrender had received Meazza's Letter by which he assured them he would maintain the Town fourteen or twelve days at least in which mean time the Genoeses believing that for certain that relief would come from Naples and Sicily they began to hope that the succour would come before they should see the Enemies Army but now failing of that assurance and not seeing the succour come every one apprehended his own misfortune and were astonished at the Enemies success and finding that they prospered in all their actions they thought it impossible they should do otherwise in the enterprise of Genoa This their affliction and astonishment was presently increased by the loss of the Castle which hapned not long after for the Duke being desirous to remove all pretences and impediments that the Constable could alledge for not going to Genoa speedily prepared the Battery wherewith having for a while plai'd upon the Walls and prejudiced them a little the Captain of the Castle though he were strongly situated and well provided of all things yet being but young and unexperienced he came to Parley and obtain'd Truce for three days with leave to send to Genoa to advertise the Senate of his condition but the Duke having made some Trenches during the Trucâ—… and the Captain not having received any advertisement from the City during those three days for the Duke had detain'd the Messenger he also surrendered so the Army having no other obstacle to keep them from going to Genoa unless it were the craggedness of the Mountain the Duke eg'd on by ardent desire and by the great hopes which so noble a concourse of Victories afforded him he press'd the Constable very hard that without giving further respite to the Enemy he would give order for the advancing of the Army and Artillery assuring him of undoubted Victory We have already said he opened the gate paved the way to the City all obstacles and impediments are already removed the Enemies are routed their chief Commanders are our Prisoners the City her self before the Victory at Ottaggio being full of terrour and confusion had as we understand by some Prisoners sent to Article with us and to offer us great sums of Money many of the chief of the Commonwealth do the like to redeem themselves from us and our hands from whence knowing their own weakness and being confounded with the presages of imminent ruine they very well know they cannot possibly escape what will they now do after so many defeats in the heels of one another after having lost their best men when they shall see themselves deprived of so many Chieftains and Officers deprived of their General at the very first encounter in whom they did so much confide shall we think that they will hold out at the very first appearance of our Ensigns that they will wait for the noise of our Cannon shall we believe that a City accustomed only to Traffick and to give account how they have gotten so great riches as they have now within their Walles and as they have distributed elsewhere shall dare to make any resistance against our Forces our Ensigns our Fame against the dread which the French Forces bear with them every where and which are every where so feared and reverenced let us go for Gods sake before they by their flight rob us of such riches as are already ours before that being fortified and succoured by the Spaniards they may dispute that Victory which nothing but speed can in all probability assure us what terrour what consternation hath the loss of their Trenches the rout and defeat at Rossiglione imprinted in our Enemies how neer was that City then to be abandoned and shall we now after the defeat of Ottaggio after the loss of Gavio when they are deprived of their best Souldiers best Commanders doubt that they will not undoubtedly be readier to run away then to defend themselves that they will not rather think of their own safety then of making resistance I pass by the many intelligences which we have with those Citizens I mention not the discontents and dissatisfactions which are in that City which certainly will much facilitate our Victory Let us go on then great
were removed for levelling them at the Monastery and beating down the Steeple it slew many of the defendants with the fall thereof he infused such terrour into the rest who returned tumultuously into Pieve leaving that station in the Princes power their example was immediately followed by the rest of the Guards so as the Prince being master of the Field sate down presently before the Town which being by so unexpected a chance fuller of confusion then order and the Walls not being fit for battery the Captain began to Parley and having the word of one of the Dukes Captains given him that he might march out he not minding who it was that gave it or what power he had to give it was presently made Prisoner and it being given out amongst them that were within that for fear of troubling of the Treaty they should put out their Matches the Besiegers approach'd the Wall without resistance and beating down the Gate with a Beam of Wood they entred the Town and those within fled away by another little Gate that was towards the Sea but they mist of their design which was to escape for that other Gate being presently possess'd by the Princes Souldiers many of them throwing themselves down from the Walls which were not very high in that part were some of them slain by the Musketiers who were placed on the out side and other some perish'd in their falling down here was the greatest slaughter of the best men to the number of 200 but those that kept within the Town met with more mercy for the Town being taken whilst the surrender was in Treaty the Prince provided for the peoples safety and the Souldiers falling to plundeâ—… and their avaâ—…ice being greater then their cruelty none were troubled but those that withstood plunder many were taken Prisoners amongst which Camp-master Doria and four other Gentlemen of Genoa two others who were got into the Castle yielded not long after upon promise of safety of life and liberty which was readily observed Thus was Pievs taken Doria made Prisoner and the people of the Commonwealth who were destined to guard that part were defeated La Riviera having lost its Garrison and not hoping for relief â—…ell into the Prince his power all the Commonalty ran to receive him and brought him the Keys they â—…reed themselves by moneys from being sack'd and rendred obedience to the Prince being order'd by the Commonwealth to do so which minding only the defence of Genoa suffer'd them to complain with the times so to keep from being sack'd and from the violence of War Whereupon Albenga Alassio Porto Mauritio San Remo and the City of Ventiâ—…iglia the chiefest Towns upon the River together with Oneglia fell without any gainsaying into the Princes hands as did also all the weaker places unless it were Triora which being seated upon the top of a Mountain held out and kept still manfully for the Commonwealth and defended it self manfully against many attempts The Castle of Ventimiglia held also for the Commonwealth which resisted for some days after the Town was surrendred till the Prince having caused some Artillery to be brought from Nice by Sea began to batter it and also to make a Mine whereupon the Captain who was but little experienced in the Militia aâ—… the end of eight days surrendred it whereby the Prince became absolute master of the River which extends it self for the space of 70 miles from Finale to Monaco The Duke at the same time notwithstanding the Constables backwardness persisting in going for Genoa made many provisions in Gavio which were sent from Piedmont he brought Artillery to Ottaggiâ—… he caused Scaling-Ladders to be made â—…e assembled Pioneers to plain the ways upon the Mountains and having taken many Fee-farms which held of the Empire beyond the Apenine from several Gentlemen of Genoa in the Valley of Serivia he sent his natural Son Don Felice to take Savignone another Fee of the Empire a great Town distant only six miles from the City on the Noth side by which way being able without any impediment to fall into the Valley of Bysagnaâ—… he made way to assault the City on that side which was thought the weakest Don Felice succeeded therein happily and without resistance for the City being brought into great streights and anxâ—…ety was wholly intent upon fortifying herself and to keep off the danger which she saw drew every day neerer she was very diligent in making â—…renches in furnishing the Walls with Artillery in digging Ditches in making Plat-forms and Stockcadoes to fence the weakest places Thus the Affairs of Genoa were thought to be brought to the last period moreover the City was at this time in great want of Moneys for some Gallies being gone into Spain to fetch moneys durst not make the Voyage for fear of the Fleet at Marcelles they therefore made use of the Plate of private persons which being turn'd into money did in part supply the need but the expence being excessive â—…ame far short of what was requisite there weâ—…e not many men ready in the State of Millain to come into the Field the Germans not being yet come and some few that were already come were sent to desend la Riva which was so necessary for the preservation of that State and Don Ieronymo Pimontello not thinking himself safe in Tortona thought it better to retreat with those few men he had into Alessandria at which the Genoeses were not a little astonished who by the fear he shewed upon this occasion were not well pleased to see him go further from the City instead of drawing neerer to the relief thereof and the like scarcity of money being there as was in Genoa the Swissers who were much in Arreer for former pay seeing the great necessity of the Spanish Officers and being set on by the Princes of the League denied passage to the Germans who came to defend the States of Millain and Genoa The failing of the Genoeses credit insued the want moneys for their State being given for lost throughout Italy and all Europe it was thought that the private Fortunes of those Citizens would perish with the publick The fear which was had in Genoa of the English and French Fleets was of no small consideration and did much afflict the minds of all men it being hourly feared that they would appear in those Seas by reason of the continual news which they had of great preparations made both at Marcelles and in England and of moneys sent by the Duke and his Son when they were before Ventimiglia to the Guisans that they might put the Fleet in readiness and appear as soon as might be in the River of Genoa to which Fleets it was feared that 40 Frigots or men of War would joyn which being come from forth of Holland and it not being known whither they were bent all men thought they were intended for the Enterprise of Genoa great was the danger lest taking Corsica or some of those Havens
Captains and Counsellors about him rather Rivals then Confidents had need of a Counsellor and Moderator who might not only be experienced but faithful And Don Gonzallo was allied unto the Governour wherefore he had reason to confide in him They consulted of all things in Occimiano wherein the Consultors differed in their opinions to attempt Asti or Vercelles so to open their way into Piedmont would be long and laboursome Enterprises and the event uncertain wherein together with the ruine of their whole Army their Honour was much hazarded without any apparent signe of profit for if peace should be made they must be necessitated to restore them And it was already supposed for certain that the King was not inclined to possess himself of any thing belonging to the Duke with an intention to detain it To what purpose would it be then to take so much pains to shed so much blood and spend so much money in taking a place which was afterwards to be restored It was therefore agreed that it would be better and â—…arer by making In rodes into the open Towns of Piedmont and by destroying and burning them and so to afflict the Duke by those means as that he might be quiet for the future and that he might not afterwards think it lawful to disturb the peace of Italy upon any sleight occasion Thus they thought that without danger of wasting their men or hazarding their reputation upon the uncertain taking of a Town they might safely enter Piedmont and overcome it with a fresh and numerous Army and with the Polack and Croat Cavalry which were naturally good at In rodes and the laying of Countries waste For that the Confederates Army being weakned and almost annihilated would not dare to fight nor appear against them in open field which resolution being divulged infused such terror into Piedmont as not only the Inhabitants of the weaker Towns but even the very Citizens of Turin not thinking themselves safe within those walls nor under the shelter of that Citadel they fled towards the Alpes with all the best things they had in so much as the Duke began to taste of that fright and fear in his own Territories which he had a little before occasioned in Genoa But this resolution which undoubtedly was the safest was out-voted by another which was to attempt the taking of some Towns in Piedmont first and this not so much out of good reason of war and for securing their entry which they resolved to do howsoever as out of Ambition thinking it not becoming the Grandezza and Reputation of so numerous an Army to do nothing but make In-rodâ—…s and lay the Country waste They were the more easily induced to give way to this for that they thought they might secretly and without much difficulty effect their desires Fixing their eyes therefore according to wont upon the Cities of Asti or Vercelles or upon the Towns of Verrua or Crescentino they kept still in Occimiano a place almost equally distant from those four Towns providing Bottoms to throw a Bridge over the Poe at Pontestura giving out that they would pass thereby over either to Vercelles or Crescentino to the end that the Duke not being able for want of men to furnish all those Towns at one and the same time might by betaking himself to defend some one of them afford them opportunity of turning upon that which should be worst provided which thinking they might easily take it might open the way for them to prosecute their resolution of prejudicing Piedmont But this design which by speedy execution might easily be effected was hindred by the accustomed and almost natural slow proceeding of the Spaniards for though the throwing the Bridge over at Pontestuna made the Duke bethink himself of Crescentino and that therefore he came with the rest of his men to the Banks of Poe leaving Prince Thomaso with only 2000 men in Asti. Feria went immediately towards Asti with his Army out of a double intent either to draw the Duke thither with all his men and so leaving the rest of his Towns unprovided and as it were abandoned Feria might make use of the occasion and turn upon some other of them and take it easily or else if the Duke not to leave his other Towns abandoned should not come to defend Asti he might possess himself of the ways about Asti and keeping it from being relieved by the Duke might easily make himself master of it but being come to the Osteria della San Croce where he kept idle for some days and suffering his Horse to scoure the Field only without passing over la Versa he afforded the Duke opportunity to send the Marshal first thither with 3000 Foot and to go afterwards thither himself with the rest failing therefore in his design of taking this City unprovided he fell to his other design to go to some one of the other three Towns which by reason of the necessity of defending Asti were abandoned Verrua was that which was pitch'd upon as being neerest more commodious of more profit and consequence for by taking it he should so divide Crescentino and all the County of Vercelli from the County of Asti as the one should not be able to assist the other nor did he fear the taking of it as well by reason of the littleness thereof as also for that it was only guarded by 300 Country people but the same slownesse and irresolution of the Spanish genius ruin'd this designe also which required haste â—…n execution for if the chief of the Army without stirring from the quarters where they were had entertained the Duke in the defence of Asti and had at the same time sent a flying Squadron of Horse with Musketeers en croupe they might easily have taken it at the very first or at least have possess'd themselves of the Passes thereabouts and have block'd up all succour so as it must soon fall into the possession of the Army which was to come soon after but either not loving to divide their Forces as being too contrary to that security which they so much studied so thinking that whatsoever diligence the Enemy could make they could not keep that little Castle from them they will go thither with their united Army Thus parting from the Banks of Versa without having attempted any thing against the City of Asti they went with all their Forces to Verrua Prince Thomaso and the Marshal march'd out with 800 Horse part French part Piedmontese to fall upon the Reer and seeing some Troops of the Dutch Cavalry which march'd under Colonel Lillo far from the body of Horse they assaulted them and having the better of the business they dispers'd them and wounded Lillo very sorely and had utterly routed them had not some other of their friends Horse come in to succour them who charging the French and Piedmontese Horse slew many of them and amongst the rest two Captains the Baron d' Hermanza the Dukes Commissary-General of
Accommodation with him and with Count Iacomo Mandello who was sent to him by Nevers offering each of them That he would procure that Nevers might be invested in his Dominions upon condition that he would receive and Quarter part of the Emperours Forces in the Dukedom of Mantua and part of Spinola's Forces in Montferrat in sign of his respect to both their Majesties to the end that making amends by this his ready obedience and publick submission for his former contumacy they might with honour receive him into favour and gratifie him the one with the Investiture and the other with the Protection which he desired Nevers would not accept of this either out of fear of non-performance or out of his relying upon the French Forces and those of other Princes who were joyn'd with him on whose pleasure he profest he did in all things depend so as he was first to acquaint France and the Venetian Senate with his offer without whose approbation and consent he could not resolve any thing in this point but being advised to the contrary by the Venetians who could not endure that the Dutch Army should come neer their Confines and an answer not coming from France the Dutch not having whereof to subsist amidst the barren Rhetian Alps where they had tarried all this while Spinola was forced contrary to his inclination to permit them to enter Italy They came in number 22000 Foot and 3500 Horse commanded by Ramboldo one of the Counts of Collalto in Friuli General of the Cesarean Forces in Italy a Commander of good esteem and Authority who had been long vers'd in the Wars of Germany and Hungary They fell down into the Valley of Chiavenna by the Lake of Como being come to Lecco they pass'd into the Territories of Cremona and proved prejudicial to Lombardy and Piedmont by their cruelty rapine plunder and contribution which they forced from thence and fatal to a good part of Italy by reason of the Plague which they brought with them and which burst forth in great violence throughout all Lombardie and Piedmont and then entring the Venetian Territories and Romagnia it came into Venice and Tuscany causing so great a mortality both of men and cattel as the better half of these Provinces did not escape the fury thereof Collalto being come into Italy spoke with Spinola in Millain by whom being honourably received after a long debate about what was to be done they agreed upon this That dividing the Armies and the Enterprises Collalto with his Dutch should undertake the business of Mantua and Spinola with the King of Spains men that of Casalle and Montferrat Having thus distributed the carrying on of the war each of them betook themselves to what fell unto their share and the King of France joyning with the Venetians in Nevers his defence left the Venetians to relieve the State of Mantua and took the care of Montferrat upon himself Spinola's Army many Captains and Officers being cashiered came to 16000 Foot and 4000 Horse wherein were comprehended the Spaniards Dutch Neapolitans and Lombards under their several Camp-masters amongst which was the Duke of Lerma Nephew to him who was so great a Favorite to King Philip the Third and was come to commence his Militia under Spinola Spinola to give a beginning to the business on his side sent his Son Don Philip to Valenza upon the Poe with part of his Army which was distributed in several Towns upon the Confines of Montferrat where gathering Victuals and Munition he gave out that he would go to besiege Casalle whereupon the French abandoning the Towns of Montferrat retreated in great â—…aste with their men to defend that place and Don Philippo invited by that occasion sent Don Ferrante di Ghirava his Lieutenant-general with 4000 Foot to beyond the Tanaro to whom Nizza Acqui and Ponsone came in and all the neighbouring Towns return'd to be govern'd by the Spaniards then bringing his men into Alessandria he went to take in Sansalvadore Lu Fubine Vignale and the other Towns of that State which lie between Alessandria and Casalle leaving Rossigliano St. Georgio and Pontestura unattempted which being as so many Bulwarks to secure Casalle were not only not abandoned by the French as the other Towns were but were begirt about with Trenches and furnish'd with good Garrisons and yet Spinola for all his shews to the contrary forbare to attempt Casalle being detain'd partly by the very cold weather which came on partly supposing that the French would imploy all their Forces to defend it he feared to begin with that as would be a great obstacle to the Treaty of peace which he so much desired Moreover he doubted much the Duke of Savoy who were it either that he was loth that that place should fall into the Spaniards hand or that he was angry at Spinola's proceedings with him began to oppose his ends and cross his designs or that minding the preservation of that place he aimed at being himself the Arbitrator of affairs and to sell the possession thereof at the dearer rate wherefore he began to declare expresly that by the last agreement at Susa he could not but grant both passage and Victuals to the French that went to relieve it wherefore Spinola being contented with the Towns that he had taken and with having regained those Towns in the face of the French which his Predecessor was forced to quit at the King of France his appearance in Italy he quarter'd his men in those Towns which he had taken where they lay idle all the ensuing Winter The Cesarian Army made better proceeding in the Territories of Mantua where the Duke of Nevers not minding the defence of the chief City so much as that of the other Towns of the State had indiscreetly distributed the greatest part of his men within those Towns which would all of them have been hardly sufficient to Garrison the chief City so as the Cesarian Army led on by the Serjeant-majors Mathias Galasso and Aldringer for Collalto who was sick at Lodi could not go along with them having taken Loglio and Volengo the chief Towns in the Mantuan Territories went immediately to Caneto somewhat a greater Town where were 2000 Foot amongst which two Companies of Venetians under Angelo Cornaro a Gentleman of Venice to defend it Nevers relied much upon that Garrison which being very great â—…e hoped would hold the Enemy play but it proved otherwise for at the first appearance of the Enemy they yielded up the Town without one stroke striking the example whereof as it is commonly seen being followed by the other Towns Gazzuolo Cicognaro and Governolo which lies in the mouth of the Mincio where it falls into the Poe fell also into the hands of the Dutch who being by this easiness of the Mantuan Souldiers become masters of almost all the Country thereabout after having miserably plundred it had conveniency to approach the City which was in great confusion to see her men make so
little resistance The City being unfurnished of the better part of her men would have run danger of being stormed had not the Venetians who were aware of the danger sent a thousand Foot thither immediately under Colonel Durante with some moneys the City of Mantua stands almost in the midst of a Lake made by the little River Mincio which comes from the Lake of Garda the Island whereupon it stands is joyned to the Continent by some Banks and Bridges whereof some are greater some less according to the distance of place at the end of the greatest Bridge stand the Suburbs of St George weakly walled and without any Plat-form to which when the Enemy drew neer with their Cannon Frederico Gonzaga who had the defence thereof committed to him began to treat of compounding in the Dukes name with Aldringer letting him know that Nevers being desirous to appear an obedient Vassal and to witness his respect and observance to the Emperour would not refuse to receive him and to allow him quarter in that Borough Aldringer who knew the place to be untenable would not accept it upon those terms since he saw that in all likelihood it could not escape his hands whereupon Gonzaga not being able to do any more yielded it unto him retaining only the Hold which is only a Gaâ—…e a little fortified which leads from the Lake to the City The Dutch being entred into St George a Truce for a few days was treated of and concluded during which time Nevers bâ—…ing desirous to asswage the Enemies fury by some act of submission offer'd Collalto who though not yet perfectly recovered caused himself to be brought from Lodi into the Mantuan Territories and lay in St Benedicts Monastery â—…he same Hold so as he would receive it only as a willing and honourable surrender but Aldringer replying that he offer'd a thing which could not hold out two hours assault the business proceeded no further the rather for that a new accident which hapned broke off both the Truce and all the Treaties for at the same time that Aldringer advanced to St Georg's Borough with the Van the Reer being led on by Frederick one of the House of Saxony went to quarter in Cireggâ—…e a Borough upon the Bank of the Lake wherein was no Garrison or any other defence but upon a bank which leads from the Borough to Mantua a Rampier was begun to be made in form of a Half-moon which opposed those who would pass that way into the City some of the Dutch coming to this Rampier which was basely abandoned by the Venetians who defended it they without any opposition became masters thereof and might easily make themselves masters of the Island of Te which was disjoyn'd from the City only by a large Ditch This caused great confusion in Mantua wherefore thinking themselves to be assaulted during the time of Truce the Town sent Colonel Durante immediately to defend that part fire was also given to the Cannon from the City against the Borough or Suburbs of St George and those who guarded the Hold hearing the noise shot off their Muskets against the Magazine of Arms which was beneath where many of the Captains and Officers of the Camp were sporting themselves trusting in the Truce and amongst them Colonel Coloredo was sorely wounded The Dutch being hereat moved who knew not what was done at le Gireggie nor the occasion thereof assumed their Arms and fell immediately upon those of the Hold which they soon made themselves masters of with the death of many of the defendants and then passing forwards took the Bridge till they came to the Draw-Bridge which being timely hoisted up by the Mantuans kept the Dutch from entring the City so as not able to get further they began to fortifie and to turn their Cannon upon the City and to play upon it whilst things went thus Mantua was again relieved with another 1000 Foot with ten pieces of Artillery and with 100 carriages of Victuals and Ammunion beside some moneys A succour which was sent by the Venetians to Goito and from thence to Mantua the Dutch perceived how fit a place Goito was to send relief being seated upon the Mincio before it falls into the Poe so as being to take it that they might streighten the City the more they sent the Baron Galasso to view it there was in it a good Garrison and it was sufficiently munited so as the cold season being considered it might have held out till the Spring but when Galasso came neer it with some few men he by some tokens found how base and fearful the defendants were wherefore hoping for good success and having seen some of those Barques which serve to bring in the Vintage in some of the neighbouring Cottages he made use of them and of some ropes to pass over the Mincio and to get neer the Town which whilst he successfully did those within began to parley and two pieces of Cannon which Galasso had sent for before he had past the River being come from the Camp they agreed to surrender the Town which accordingly was done and proved no little prejudice to the City being thereby deprived of so important a place for succour Goito being taken and the Dutch finding that the Battery of S. Georgiâ—… against the City by reason of the far distance did no good they â—…ell to expugne Porto which is another Town neerer the City reduced into a Fort with Walls Bulwarks and Ditches and partly secured by the neerness of the Lake from whence you go to the City by the Mill-bridge and by a bank at the head of the Bridge Being gotten by their approaches to the Ditch they would have drained it and then have come to Battery and to Assault which if they could once have done they had great hopes by reason of the Defendants cowaâ—…dize whereof they had had so many proofs and the Artillery being already prepared they were ready to begin Battery But the Winter coming on and the weather growing very cold the business began to appear to be longer harder then it was thought it would have been especially since the City being secured every where else might make use of all her men to defend this place To this was added the great scarcity of victuals and straw which grew daily greater in the Army and the plague whereof many in the camp dyed Wherefore altering their minds they resolved for that Winter to minde only the keeping of what they had got and distributing their Army in the neighbouring Towns to keep Mantua besieged at a distance and to possess themselves of the Avenues and Passes which were fittest for relief and they quarter'd their Horse so as they might scoure the Country and keep back relief Collalto went to winter in Reggio where he quarter'd one Regiment the Duke of Modena not knowing how to refuse them as being Feudatory to the Empire as neither could the other Feudatories of the Empire do some allowing
Quarter some Contribution in what quality or quantity Collalto pleased to take it The Army being in their Quarters the besieged sallied out in great numbers and molested the stations held by the Enemy not without some advantage to themselves and prejudice to the Enemy Nevers going out himself in person with the Prince his Son and a good Band of men fell upon Mormitolo a place some five miles off where about one hundred Dutch were quartered who yielded unto him upon discretion He afterward went to Castiglione which he likewise took whereby making way for relief from Verona the Venetians had conveniency to convey victuals into the City they met with contrary fortune at Rivolta on the left bank of Mincio where it falls into the Lake which Town rising in Insurrections by the fomentation of the Venetians was recovered by the Dutch who went thither with the death of all the Towns-men who refusing to surrender the Town were even to the very Infants put to the Sword and though the Dutch Horse foraged the Countrey yet some succours were brought in from the State of Venice which being done by stealth were not sufficient by much for the need the City was in which being begirt by the Enemy wanted food and was also hardly handled by the Plague which was very great here as also in all the neighbouring Towns and Cities insomuch as getting into the City of Venice people died so fast as the care thereof was almost quite given over by those that had the looking to it the like hapned in Millain Bullognia and in all the Cities of Lombardy Romagnia and Tuscany but whilst the Cesarian Army winter'd in the State of Mantua and Spinola's Forces in Montferrat provisions for war as also Negotiations for peace ceased not in both which not only the Commanders in the Armies but the Princes of Italy laboured The Pope seeing the Dutch forces so neer the Church-Dominions sent about 18000 Foot into the parts about Bullognia under his Brother Don Carlo and 2000 horse and sollicited the building of Fort Urbano which he had resolved upon two years before and was begun at Castel Franco upon the way that leads from Modena to Bullognia and was a good and fitting Bulwark to Romagnia and the Church-Territories on that side but that he might likewise by his authority and endeavours stop the evils which threatned Italy he made Cardinal Antonio his Brothers second Son Legate who being also come into Bullognia where his Father govern'd the Ecclesiastick Forces he sent Monsieur Iovan Iacomo Panciruolo to Mantua to treat of some suspension of Arms between the Duke of Nevers and Collalto to the end that in the interim they might the more commodiously and with the better hopes treat of peace But this was but in vain for Collalto growing proud with successe made still higher demands and the Duke who had nothing more to grant but Mantua and Casalle had not wherewithall to satisfie his demands and pretensions so as there was no middle way left for them to meet in and the lesse for that the siege of Mantua being given over with so little honour to the Cesarean Forces and Casalle not as yet attempted by Spinola the new Dukes hopes were not a little comforted nor his confidence a little increased of being sustained by them who fomented him and were his well-wishers For whilst these two places held good all the other Town taken by the enemy either in the state of Mantua or Montferrat made but little for the main concernment of the Warr and it being very probable that the Armies being afflicted by the Pestilence by the Winter inconveniences and by those of the Campagina they would in time lessen and it was to be hoped that being much diminished of themselves they would be reduced to such a condition as not being able to withstand the French Forces which were to passe over the Alps very strong the next Spring they would be easily driven from their quarters a consideration which did must afflict Spinola For having two Armies on his back which he was to furnish with expences and provisions he feared he must be forc'd to squander out monies to no purpose this Winter and have need of it himself afterwards when there should be occasion to lay it out with profit Wherefore growing very sparing thereof he was lesse carefull in satisfying the Duke of Savoy's demands and necessities though he had other greater respects to keep him from furnishing him with monies which he proceeding from distrust did daily increase by reason of his continual treating with the French Sometimes by means of the victuals which â—…as bound to furnish the Army with which was to passe over the Mountains Sometimes by doing the like to those of Casalle Sometimes by the conduct-monies which were agreed to be given them when they should be come into Piedmont Sometimes by the negotiations which daily past touching the Dukes joyning his Forces with the French whereof there were pregnant suspicions by many demonstrations made by the Duke on purpose to make Spinola jealous Wherefore these actions being really repugnant to that good correspondency and inclination which the Duke profestto the Kings affairs when he demanded monies of Spinola and it seeming somewhat hard to Spinola that he should feed one with monies who continually fomented the enemy and who held continually so close intelligence with them he demanded from the Duke some cautionary Townes in Piedmont if he would be furnished with monies for security of his profest good will and inclination to the King of Spaine's affaires The demand did very much trouble not onely the Duke but all the Princes of Italy for it increased the jealousies of the Italian Princes if Spinola should get yet further footing in Piedmont to boot with what the Spaniards pretended to in Montferrat and the Duke in whom the Italian Princes did confide that he would not forgo the common cause as well in respect of his own as of the common interest Having complained to the King of Spain of the demands made by Spinola he obtained Orders from the Court to Spinola that he should desist from such demands and Spinola that the Duke might not be too much exasperated received some check for his too much severity Great Preparations for Warr were not only made in Italy but also elsewhere The King of France raised a mighty Army to come stronger then formerly into Piedmont and the Emperour and the King of Spain to keep the French from opposing the Duke and from forcing him to joyn with theâ—… prepared to assault France the one on the side of Spain the other on the side of Germany But both these proved rather Rumours then Reallities the want of money was the cause why on the King of Spain's side he having hardly sufficient to supply the Warrs within Italy Flanders and Germany so as he had not where withall to begin and maintain a new Warr with France And also the scarcity of
Commonwealths Souldiers were gone but finding by the firing of the Ammunition in Valleggio that the enemy had abandoned the Town he altered his mind and return'd upon Valleggio whither being come and finding it forsaken he fell immediately â—…o pursue the enemy and advanced a little towards Peschiera before he was come half way he got to the Reer which was led on by Candale wherein most French were and after that Candale had fought and made some resistance at last being forsaken by his men part whereof yielded part fled he was forced to retreat with the rest some of which got to Peschiera part to Castel nuovo and others to Garda strong Towns of the Venetians were no further pursued by the Dutch about 4000 Venetian Souldiers died in this conflict Gallasso sent 26 Colours four of which bore the French Lillies and three Coronets of Curassiers to Colalto who lay sick in Marignano upon the greaâ—…er Lake the Prisoners were many amongst which Valletta the number of those that were slain and wounded on the Dutch side amounted not to 400 amongst which the Serjeant-major to Frederick of Saxony great was the reputation of the Dutch after this success answerable to the great depression into which the Venetians fell upon which almost all the hopes of the Mantuans depending were totally lost and there not being any in the field who could defend that City her condition was thought to be sad her safety being reduced to this point whether the besieged or besiegers could longer suffer or resist the hardships of the Siege for the former had no hopes of relief nor courage to â—…ree themselves nor had the others hopes of taking the City or of ending their enterterprise by reason of the Cities strong situation Famine Pestilence and Military actions had reduced the defendants to so small a number as they had not enough to supply the Guards of the City there was no good intelligence between the Duke of Mantua and the Venetian Resident The Duke required many things and the Resident limiting many of the demands and of the needs that the City was in related them to the Commonwealth much lesser then they were so as the Commonwealth did not sufficiently provide for the urgent extremities of the City it was therefore necessary to give over much of the defence which the enemy perceiving and minding their business they watched all occasions to make themselves masters of the ill guarded and worse provided City and to end their enterprise by surprisal wherein they had good success for having caused six Barques to be brought upon Carts from the greater Casalle a Town in the State of Millain to St. Georgio they put them into the Lake and put some fourscore Souldiers into them which making a little before Sun-rising towards the Gate of the Castle which answers upon Sâ—… George where little fear being had by reason of the water there was but little or no guard kept and an assault being furiously given at the same time on the opposite part of the City the Souldiers in the Barques clap'd a Peâ—…ard to the Castle Gate which being ill kept and worse defended was soon beaten down and master'd where whilst they were fortifying St. George his Bridge which as it hath been said was cut in sunder in the midst was cross'd over by great Planks brought to that purpuse over which the Dutch Horse pass'd and entred by the Gate which was opened and possess'd but a little before meeting with no resistance the Dukes Palace was presently taken which was neer that Gate and as rich formerly in Jewels and Houshold-stuff as any other Princes Palace in Italy though for some late years the continual wars had wasted much of her precious things what was left was sack'd together with the whole City the Princess got into the Fort di Porto whither the Princess Mary was forc'd to fly with her tender Babe the assault given lasted till the 14th hour but the defendants yielding at the last who heard that the Dutch were entred on the other side were pursued by the assailants to the Church of St. Agnese and those who could get into the same Porto which when they saw the City lost they strove to make good by some works which they made toward the City but wanting both Counsel and Provisions and the defendants being dismaid they listned willingly to Articles of Agreement which were quickly propounded by the Dutch who were desirous to compleat the enterprise which Articles being agreed upon the Fort was delivered up to the Imperialists The Duke and his Son with some of their followers as also the Marquess di Coure who as Agent for the King of France had â—…arried always in Mantua were suffer'd to come forth and being waited upon by some Troops of Horse they according to Articles retreated to Ferrara The City was miserably sack'd Military cruelty avaâ—…ice and lust had room enough to vent themselves it would be tedious to relate the monstrous effects and execrable examples which were theâ—…e acted as also to describe the miseries afflictions and indignities which the miserable Mantuans underwent we will therefore pass by them as being matter for a Tragical Poem rather then for an Historical relation it was really a miserable thing and much to be compassionated and of great consideration that that City which was by reason of its situation thought impregnable and by experience â—…ad proved to be so for so many ages for it is not known that it was ever taken before should fall into the hands of the oppugners within less then one year This loss was very ill resented by the Princes of Italy who had not much endeavoured to defend it by reason of the multiplicity of Forreigners that were then in Italy nay it became odious to to the Spaniards who had so much endeavour'd it and been at such expence in fomenting it by reason of the concurrence of authority and precedency of place the news thereof coming to Casalle and Piedmont did equally afflict both the Duke of Savoy and Spinola the latter not so much for his Kings Interests for which it made not that the Dutch should get so much footing in Italy as for the emulation he bore to Collatto who proving more successful in what he took in hand then he had done he much maligned that fortune should be so favourable to him in a much harder business then that of Casalle and the Duke of Savoy for that judging that the fury of the Forreigners would turn upon Piedmont he foresaw that his State by becoming the seat oâ—… the war would be exposed to the like calamities and barbarisâ—…s by the same Nations and that he being every where invironed by armed Forreigners who had no dependency upon him he should become the mark wheâ—…eat not only his enemies blows should aim but even the like to his friends injuries and supercharyes he was also troubled to foresee the certain loss of Casalle wherein he was forc'd to co-operate
into Spain had acquainted that Court with Spinola's aversion to the Duke with the bad intelligence which pass'd between him and Collalto and what sad consequences might thereupon insue to the prejudice of the common cause he had also accused Spinola of being too apparently inclined to making peace upon any whatsoever conditions such as would not only be dishonourable for their Forces but apparently dangerous for the common affairs and that it could not be known whence this should proceed unless it were from his bad inclination towards the Duke with whom he had proceeded so seveâ—…ely so as nothing but ruinous effects to the common affairs could be expected from so great a discrepancy of humours ends and wills since the Duke not being able any longer to endure it would be forced to use any means for his own honour and safety to these powerful reasons he added no less prevailing proofs amongst others the rough draught of certain Capitulâ—…tions of Peace written by Spinola's Secretary whereby though the King of France was obliged to free the Duke of Savoys Dominions and to withdraw his Forces into France yet was there no caution mentioned for the observance thereof so as it was in the Kings will and choice whether or no he would observe what he was bound unto by the Articles though all things should be punctually observed by the rest nor was this all he covenanted by the same Capitulations that all the Potentates of Italy and Germany the Electors by name should favour the States of Mantua and Montferrat in case they should be molested by any and the Duke obliged himself to afford passage and victuals to the French Armies if they should be sent to succour those States a League or rather a Conspiracy of all these Princes against the Emperour and King of Spain if at any time the Emperour should upon any just cause proceed against his Vassal or if the King of Spain should assist the Emperour and yet said Scaglia Spinola winking at so great indignities and prejudices would willingly have accepted and subscribed it had it not been abhorred by the Duke and by Collalto with the unanimous consent of all the Captains as being too insolent and too unworthy of the Cesarean authority and repuls'd as too prejudicial to Piedmont and to the State of Millain These and other reasons prevailed sufficiently with the Conde Duca who was more inclined to the Duke of Savoy then to Spinola so as there needed not many perswasions to induce him to limit Spinola's authority in the point of making peace so as when Mazarine going into France to Negotiate with the King return'd to Italy with the conclusion agreed upon by the King he found all broken off and in disorder by new Directions in this interim the old Duke being dead a suspension of Arms was treated of by the new Duke between himself and the Commanders of Cesar and the King of Spains party on one side and the French Commanders on the other side as well in Italy as out of it by which all hostility and innovation of the Fortifications hostile acts and taking of Towns was inhibited that the City and Castle of Casalle should be assigned over to Spinola and that he should furnish the Citadel being paid for it with Victuals during the time of Truce that if the peace should be concluded in Ratisbone it should be observed on all sides if not concluded by the 15th of October that the Truce should cease and that it should be lawful for the French afterwards to endeavour the relief of the Citadel and for the others to defend it and that each of them might use their Arms and do all hostile acts as before the Truce that if the Citadel should not be succoured during the whole moneth of October it should be delivered over to Spinola who was to have Hostages given him for the performance thereof that if it should be succoured Spinola should re-deliver the Castle and Citadel The French Commanders durst not accept of this Truce without express order from the King though Toras inform'd them often what want they had of Victuals Moneys and Men many whereof were dead of the Plague protesting that he could not keep it longer then September this Proposal being sent to Paris it was easily agreed to for there they desired time for the delivery of Casalle to the end that thereby they might make the peace which was in treaty at Ratisbone upon betteâ—… conditions or might have time to relieve it if peace should not be concluded Whereupon Monsieur di Bresse was immediately sent to Italy with express Orders to the French Commanders and to the Duke du Mayne who as hath been said was in Casalle that they should accept of it but some time being this mean while past Casalle was not in the former condition for the besiegers as hath been formerly said were gotten into the Ditch and the Neapolitans who besieged the City were fallen upon the Walls and the Plague having consumed many of the defendants it might probably be supposed that for want of men the like might befall that place as had hapned to Mantua it being likewise known that those within the Town were in great scarcity of Victuals wherefore Spinola making his advantage thereof would no longer listen to any suspension to any Truce or peace especially as concerning making the Citadel longer-liv'd by furnishing it with Victuals and not innovating any thing during the Truce nor making new defences against such succours as should come when the Truce should be expired Spinola was at this time much wearied both in body and mind by the labours he had taken and by the agitation of spirit which he had suffered in these present Occurrences the lessening of his power had wounded him sorely wherefore falling sick and his malady both of body and mind encreasing he soon became unfit for managing so important an enterprise or indeed for any other enterprise it was therefore requisite to send for the Marquess of San ' Croce who was then at Genoa and for the Lord Chancellor and those of the Cabinet Councel from Millain who being come to the Camp opened the Kings Orders which provided for a successour in case Spinola should die and therein they found San ' Croce nominated to whom Spinola relinquish'd the Government of all things Spinola went from the Camp and retired to Castel nuovo di Scrivia in the Tortonese to be cured of his sickness but being ancient and his sickness encreasing he dyed on the 25th of September two moneths after the late Duke of Savoy The Affairs of War and Government went less in reputation by Spinola's death the Duke of Savoy wearied with the troubles of a long war which he saw was still maintained in his Country and not being pleased that the Spaniards should suffer him to lose his State so they might get Casalle listned willingly to the offers of France which promised to restore him to the entire possession of
on before he could come to where the battle was fought By this victory the Swedish party which was before so formidable remained little less then quite overthrown Oxenstern who was their chief directer one who had been always undaunted when he heard the news was so astonished as that he knew not whither to turn or what to do to repair so great a blow He was at Francfort whither Weymer was retreated after the battle and having quickly gotten 3000 Foot which came from the Rhingrave of Hessen and from the Duke of Luneberg he with those and with some others partly fugitives partly those that he had sent for from other Garrisons went together with Weymer towards Mentz hoping to find some refuge there whereby to stop the precipice of so great a ruine But those of the Town affrighted at such a turn of Affairs were more desirous to obtain pardon for the faults they had already committed then to incense the Emperour by committing yet more so as they would not receive them They therefore retired towards the neighbouring Mountains of Rheine and threw a bridge over the River that they might receive great succours which they expected from France On the other side the victorious Army to which those of Norlingen did immediately surrender passing into the Countries of Wittenberg Franconia Suevia thinking that they would all come in and submit themselves and that they might get great compositions from thence which all the people and parts thereabouts did readily offer to shun the sacking and desolation of their Country The like did all the Cities upon the Rheine and Danube and those also upon the Iser Occino and Neccar Rivers of that part of Germany which had sided with the Swedes Thus the Conquerours minding more the reaping of advantage by their victory then to subdue the remainders of the conquer'd party afforded them conveniency of recruiting and of recovering their former condition and honour which though it was attributed to weakness in the Imperialists Counsels yet other more important reasons kept them from doing it lest they might put those remainders into utter despair They were yet posses'd of many principal Towns near the Rheine And the King of France being very much prest by them for succour made use of that present necessity which he saw they were in desiring that if they would have the demanded succour they would deliver up into his hands the important Town of Filisburg upon the Rheine so as the Cesareans thinking they might more easily recover those Towns from them then from the French were reserved in totally extirpating them to keep them from despair Thus in their low ebb of the reliques of the victories which they had formerly gotten made them secure and considerable even to their victorious Enemies as they had formerly when they got them made them formidable to Germany Not long after the battle it was consulted in the Camp whether the Infanta returning backwards should go for Flanders thorough Alsatia as he had formerly intended to do or whether being already so far advanced in Germany he should pursue his journey through the Palatinate For his going thorough Alsatia the conveniency which he might have to relieve Brisack which was again besieged by the Enemy was pleaded and the easiness and safety of his marching thorough that Country which was now free from Garrisons of the Enemy they being gon after the battle of Norlingen to joyn with their General The shortness of the march pleaded for the other way and the safety thereof it being void of the conquer'd Enemy as well as Alsatia as also the much pressing of the Flemmings that he would hasten his journey as much as he possibly could Moreover the Winter-season which upon any the least delay before Brisack would come on and would not only have block'd up that way but all other ways made more against his turning back and for his continuing the way he was in After several debates it was carried that he should go through the Palatinate wherefore the Infanta in company with the King of Hungary entring the Dukedom of Wittenberg and having reduced it to obedience for the Duke thereof was fled with some few into the Country of Saltsburg came into the lower Palatinate where the Infanta taking leave of the King and having obtain'd 2000 Horse from him for a conduct pass'd victoriously every where and as triumphing over the Enemies of the Catholick Faith and of the Empire not meeting with any opposition nay all places through which he pass'd yielded to him and he was furnish'd every where abundantly with victuals and all sorts of refreshments From the Palatinate he entred into the County of Nansaw and being come from thence to Cullen where he was honourably received by that Elector he pass'd into Flanders with as much quiet and safety as he passed through Castile and Arragon when he parted from Madrid He came into Brussels about the beginning of November in the year 1634. where he was received not only with great pomp but with incredible applause his coming was very seasonable for the ground-work was already laid for a strong League in those parts against the Spaniards between the King of France and the United Provinces which was concluded on the beginning of March following and thereupon powerful Armies were prepared by them both to assault joyntly the Provinces which were obedient to the Crown of Spain The King of France wanted only a pretence whereby to honest the breach But this new and great rupture not being to be cloaked the mask which had formerly been made use of between the two Crowns must be taken off and open War must be made which did necessarily require some pretence for its justification therefore the King of France made use of an occasion which hapned at this time The Archbishop of Triers one of the Electors held as hath been formerly said much closer Intelligence with the King of France then with the Emperour and Austrians with whom for many occasions he had been several times distasted and to boot that this City was a member of the German Empire it had been anciently under the protection of the Dukes of Luxemburg and by succession under the protection of the King of Spain who succeeded the ancient Dukes in that Dukedom and the King of Spain under colour of that pretension was wont to keep some Souldiers in Garrison there and to use some actions of Jurisdiction The Elector seeming to apprehend the Swedish Forces had as hath been formerly said put himself under the King of France his protection and received a French Garrison into the City expelling the Spanish Nor herewithal content he to the great prejudice of the German Affairs delivered up to the same King of France the Town of Hermensteyne it was also said that he was to accept of the Cardinal Richelieu as Co adjutor in the Archbishoprick to which the Electorship is annex'd with intention of leaving that Dignity to him afterwards and so
thereof And when he saw the Defendants beaten back from the recovery of those places which his men had taken he made that part of the Island be better fortified and put more men into it by which the Enemy had got in and made all the batteries be doubled the approaches advanced and all things necessary prepared to give another general assault And because a squadron of Horse appeared beyond the River which turned towards the foot of the Bridge that was thrown over on the other side he ordered some Horse to go out against them who forc'd the Enemies Horse to retreat and slew many of them The French Army finding by these proceedings the impossibility of advancing with succour they fell to battery and placed 16 peece of Cannon on the side just opposite against the City which commanding the Island play'd furiously upon the fortifications wherewith it was munited The like was done from the City not so much by Cannon as by Musket-shot which being given fire unto neerer hand hurt many of the Garrisons of the neighbouring works and Trenches Those who defended the Island did not onely shelter themselves against these batteries but raised a counter-battery whereby they did much prejudice to some Regiments that were come to quarter neerer In this interim those of the City made out a good and gallant sally with 600 Musketeirs against a little Fort which was raised in the Island by which if it had been taken great relief might have been brought into the City And to this purpose Marquess Villa who held intelligence with those within the Town was come to the River side and was ready to introduce it but neither did this attempt succeed for those that defended the little Fort stood firm and with-stood the first affault till fresh Horse came in to their assistance who playing upon the Enemy on the flank forc'd them after a long and obsimate skirmish to retreat having slain above 50 of them and taken eight of their Captains whereof four dyed and four remained Prisoners by reason of this misfoâ—…tune and for because the Spanish Horse scouring the Country kept back victuals and keept the Enemies Camp from forraging the Cardinal and Duke of Vallette who had made the battery onely to satisfie the pressing desires of the Dowagers Commanders began to think upon giving over they were hereunto incited by the reinforcement of 4000 Swissers which were by the Governours orders newly come unto the Camp but they were compelled much more to abandon the enterprize speedily hearing that Cardinal Trivultio was come from Millain with 8000 good Foot and that he was upon his march to assault them in their works so as growing cautious and circumspect according to their custom they were resolved not to be entrapped between the Cardinal and the Governour who was now re-inforced with new men they therefore removed their Artillery and past back over the Sesia and going round the line by long marches they intended to fall upon the enemy on the opposite part of the line which was over against the Pralvolo which resolution as it occasioned great consternation amongst the besieged who thought themselves abandoned so did it much comfort the besiegers who were not long able to continue in that condition by reason of the prejudice they received by battery from which they could not well shelter themselves by reason of the stony gravelly earth and more by reason of the thunder of Cannon and hail of Musket-shot which absolutely impeded their works by day and beat down those which they could make in the nights which were now grown short and it was thought by the Piedmontese and by the Spanish Commanders that if that battery had been continued a little longer the Town would undoubtedly have been freed and the Victory gotten The Lords of Vallette being freed from Trivultio's imminent danger by passing over the Sesia sent some of their Horse a little lower to the end that being past over the Sesia at Palestre by which way victuals were brought to the Spanish Camp they might block up that Avenue Palastre was not onely taken but sack'd and great booty was gotten there these Horse quarter'd in the neighbouring Towns thinking that by their yet further keeping the Spanish Camp from Victuals it would the sooner be forced to raise the Seige they failed in this design as well because the Camp was already provided with as much as might serve them for a fortnight in which time the enemies horse would have been forced to seek new quarters as also that though the passage by Palastre was blocked up that of Novara was open by the enemies departure from the Abby which was more commodious for the conveying of Victuals There hapned many Skirmishes between these Horses and those who guarded the line on that part and it being known that the French Army though it was past over the Sesia would not give over the business but rather that being recruited by new Forces come from France they would quickly return and joyning with the Horse at Palastre would resume it with more vigour therefore the quarter by the Abby was better fortified whither that recruit of men were sent who did defend the Island when it was in greatest danger nor did their provisions cease here the Governour did greatly desire to make use of this advantage of the enemies being gone that he might the more safely give a general assault without danger of being fallen upon by the enemy on the back he therefore ordered all things with the greatest diligence that might be to this effect he sollicited all his men to throw galleries over the Ditch he made the battery by Cannon be redoubled to make breaches and provided for all other things necessary So as all their endeavours were to get to the walls by the shortest way though it were not very safe doing so and whilest they were intent hereupon they heard that the enemy would quarter the next day at Prarnold a Town on the right hand of the river under Vercelli not above a mile distant from the line wherefore though things were not very well in order the Governour gave directions for a general assault to be given the next day the Italians battery had not as yet made a sufficient breach in the Wall and the Spaniards though they had sprung a Mine between the Bulwark de Nobili and that of S. Andrea yet it proved uneffectual by a strange accident for twenty yards of the Wall which was blown up by the violence of the fire fell down entire and whole into the same place where it stood before and did so joyn as there appeared not any the least gap whereby they might enter the Dutch were onely in somewhat a better condition for they had made themselves masters not onely of the platform but also of a half Moon which was in the Tenaglia which they had gotten a little before these three Nations going by the Governours orders to the assault they fought with
chief resistance was intended to be made the inward Walls wanted defendants so as the former being gotten where the most defence was made it was easie to enter by the other where there were but few defendants and therefore whilst Marquess Serra and Don Michiele di Pignatelli who were to fall upon two Half-moons which fenced the Circuit and which were better fortified and harder to be taken then the other Works whilst I say they were intent upon what they had to do the Marquess of Caracena first and Don Antonio Sottelo Don Lewis di Lincastro and Count Bâ—…rromeo who had on the opposite part overcome the outward circuit entred the City and being entred assaulted those on the back who constantly and manfully opposing Serra and Pignatelli manfully persever'd in defence of the place the defendants nor assailants in these parts not knowing yet that the Town was taken and that the business was done the City was sack'd and the booty was great for many had brought the best things they had thither as to a place of safety from the Towns of Piedmont and Montferrat and many were taken prisoners amongst which Rovere the Governour of the Town and Colonel Meroles who yielded themselves upon discretion when they saw the defence grew desperate and so confident was Meroles as being tempted before the assault was given by the Prince to surrender the Town he would not hearken to it but made the Artillery be discharged upon the Messengers nor were the Citizens less confident who fearing nothing less then to be taken did not carry their things of best value into the Churches where they might have been preserved from the fury of the Souldiers who though they spared nothing were very observant of the Churches and bare great respect to what was thither brought and towards those who had refuge to them the paucity of the besiegers death made the business much more glorious who were not in all 300 amongst which only two Spanish Captains the justification of their cause in civil affairs added much to the Princes good success in what was Military the Dowager being cited as hath been said to appear before Cesars Tribunal did never appear no not so much as by her Proctors wherefore the Emperour by publick Decree named the Princes to be the lawful Guardians of the young Duke and Administrators of the States excluding the Dowager by name which Declaration as it encouraged the Princes to continue the War so made it the people adhere the more unto them this Edict of the Emperours being publish'd by the Princes throughout all Piedmont they in the first place declared all that had been done by the Dowager as Guardianess or Regent to be void and null namely the League made with the King of France they commanded all the Magistrates and Officers not to tender her any longer obedience and that they should appear at Asti to receive from them the confirmation of the Offices and Charges confirm'd upon them by the Dowager they commanded the people not to pay her any thing that was due to the Dukes Exchequer and the Senate Counsellors of State and Magistrates that they should make no Confederate meetings upon pain of losing their places and other arbitrary punishments all these things being added to the so sudden loss of so many principal places in Piedmont whereinto Spanish Garrisons were put by the Princes permission made the King of France not only endeavour to restore them to their former condition but under this pretence to desire the Dowager that as the Princes had put all the places which they had won into the hands of the Spaniards so she would be pleased to put those that yet remained in her possession into his hands wherefore that she might not distaste the King upon whose Forces she wholly did depend and for that she did believe that by putting them into the hands of the French she might preserve them from the Spaniards the Dowager condescended to the Kings demands and gave way that Cherasco Savigliano and Carmagnuola should have French Garrisons put into them upon condition that the Revenues Justice and Sovereignty of them should belong unto the Duke and that the Towns should be restored without any pretence to be made by the King for any expence he should be at by keeping the Garrisons there and that the like should be done with those that should be recovered from the Spaniards which should be restored immediately after their recovery to the Duke without any defalcation to be made for the expence of their recovery and it was moreover covenanted that no peace nor suspension of Arms should be made in Italy for above one year wherein the Duke should not be restored to all Towns taken by the Spaniards or held by the French The Dowager before these conditions were agreed upon and before the Towns should be assigned over would acquaint the Princes with them informing them how much the Duke was prejudiced by bringing the Spaniards into his Towns and exhorting them to a good agreement whereby all these evils might be rooted out and she offer'd them all fair dealing with preservation to hers and her Sons dignity and safety but she received no other answer to all this but the same which had been made unto her at Valentino The Spanish Army went from Trino to St. Ia where the Captain of the Town not awhit dismaid by the good fortune which the Princes Forces had had nor terrified at what had befallen Trino refused to accept of honourable proposals made by the Princes and shew'd great readiness and resolution to defend the Town though he saw himself every way begirt by Spanish Garrisons and quite cut off from that part of Piedmont which held out for the Dowager therefore the Governour of Millain went with part of his men to Livorno and from thence to Pontestura where he fell to fortifie that place lest the French might succour Cassalle by that way and the Prince remained with part of his men before St. Ia knowing that the place was in want of victuals wherewith it could not be full furnish'd from any part so as it would soon be forced to come to a Parley He did notwithstanding so besiege it at a distance as the Dowagers Commanders despairing to be able to relieve it they resolved to try diversion Marquess Villa went therefore out of Turin with a body of Horse and Foot and with 12 peece of Cannon he went to Montcalleri and from thence advanced to Asti that he might make the Prince rise from before Sâ—… Ia But finding that the Prince did not remove and that he had not Forces sufficient to take that City he return'd to Turin where joyning with the Cardinal of Vallette their joynt Forces amounting to 8000 Foot 4000 Horse twelve peece of Cannon and 40 cart loads of Ammunition they resolved to go directly to relieve St. Ia marching at a slow rare according to Vallettes custom they found the River Dora so swoln
condition Cuneo was they resolved to go thither they had great hopes of taking it for the Prince Cardinal would either go out of Cuneo or he would not if he did Corvo who was Serjeant Major there offer'd to yield the Town to them and if not they were sure to take it by reason of the small provisions that were there and if they should take it it would put an end to the Civil War since the Prince Cardinal who was the Head of the controverted Guardianship would be therein taken Prisoner whereof Duke Longueville made himself so sure as he writ thereof to the King as of a thing done but they were much deceived for Cuneo was not taken and Turin was lost which the Prince Cardinal did cunningly foresee for Prince Thomaso whilst he was in Mandovi going to see him at Cuneo and having earnestly desired him not to suffer himself to be enclosed in that unprovided place which was not such as he ought to adventure his person therein and therewith the whole affair he absolutely refused his advice for he held undoubtedly that if he should go out the Town would be lost and on the contrary that the Governour of Millain would either come with all his Forces to relieve him or that else he would go to Turin which he might easily take all the Dowagers and French Forces being now in these parts and the Siege of Cuneo being to be abandoned for the necessary defence of Turin the freedom of his person and the like of the Town would ensue but these very thoughts falling into the minds of those who fought on the Dowagers behalf they likewise knew what dangers Turin and the Citadel and the Dowager that was therein would be subject to if when they should go with almost all the Forces of Piedmont to an enterprise so far off the enemy making use of the occasion should come strongly against Turin whilst it was unprovided of defence it was therefore thought necessary that the Cardinal of Valletta should go with all his men to defend the parts thereabouts which resolution was approved of and pursued by the Cardinal and was as good as necessary and if it had been as well perform'd as it was plotted it had quite oveâ—…throvvn all the Prince Cardinals Counsels foâ—… both Turin and the Dovvager would have been preserved from danger and Cuneo would have been taken with evident hazard of the Prince Cardinals person but the misfortune in performance marred the design and made good the Prince Cardinals opinion when the Cardinal Valletta was gone Duke Longueville went to Cuneo and on the sudden in the night season assaulted the out Works and forc'd the defendants with much loss to them to forsake the Works and betake themselves to defend the Walls and the Gates which the assailants had well nigh taken as they pursued them he therefore had happily begun his business and had fair hopes of ending it successfully but before the Trenches were begun to be made the whole thred of the business was cut off by a Letter of the Cardinal of Valletta's wherein he signified to Longueville that the Enemy came very strong against him and that he could not possibly withstand them unlesse he were recruited with eight hundred more Horse though the Duke was somewhat amazed at this demand yet he readily sent the desired Horse that the Cardinal might have no occasion to fail in what was by common consent agreed upon but the want of these Horse forc'd the Duke to abandon Cuneo and to retreat to a Town neer to Fossano called St. Albano whereby one part of the Prince Cardinals judgement was verified that Cuneo would be abandoned to relieve Turin and the other part proved as true not long after for Prince Thomaso having had speech with the Governour of Millain in Aâ—…sti and having perswaded him to relieve Cuneo and his Brother at least by diversion got of him 600 Spanish Foot under Marquess Caracena and 2500 Horse under Carlo della Gatta with express promise that all the rest of the Forces should immediately follow him so he went forthwith from thence and came speedily to Villa nuova where getting 500 other Foot under Camp-master Tuttavilla he past over the Poe about the evening and came by night to Vallentino Villa nuâ—…va Carmagnuola and Turin make a just triangle wherefore when news came to the other two Cities that the Prince was come with a great body of men to Villa nuova they were both much terrified and began to cry out for help The Dowager sent Count Piveasâ—… forthwith to the Cardinal of Valletta desiring that he would hasten to defend her and the City of Turin and the Cardinal fearing no less then she to be assaulted in Carmagnuola not knowing what to do did not stir The Prince kept in Vallentino till midnight giving out fitting Orders for the surprizal of Turin and in maturing intelligence with those that guarded it and having ordered all things well resolved to assault the Town on four sides The Marquess of Caracena was appointed to assault the Castle Gate with the 600 Spanish Foot which were the very best of that Nation that beating it down with a Petard he might make himself master of it Tuttavilla was sent to scale the Wall between the Bastion of S ta Maria and that of Citta nuova Colonel Alardo was ordered to fall upon the Posto di nostra Signora towards the Citadel and Count di Vich was sent to fasten a Petard to Porta nuova and each of them had sufficient Orders Instruments and Men given them for what they had to do each of them did punctually perform what they were appointed at one and the same time which was at fiâ—… a clock at night and the darkness of the season was a great furtherance to the enterprise and yet Caracena could not fasten his Petard for he found the Bridge drawn up and the Ladders wherewith he was to scale the Walls were too short he notwithstanding fell to break the Steccadoes which lay along the Courtain toward the Bastion Verde and entred thereby into the Garden of the Pallazzo Ducale Tuttavilla who was abandoned by his guide who could not endure the noise of a Musket marching alone with his Squadron and groaping in the dark light upon a Half-moon which was defended by 500 Souldiers and after having skirmished a while with them he at last made himself master thereof then entring the ditch to fall to the Scalado he also found his Ladders too short wherefore being called upon by Caracena he resolved to go to him and being joyned they entred the City by the Garden and formed two Squadrons upon Piazza San ' Iovanni The Dowager hearing that the enemy was entred the Town withdrew with her Guard into the Citadel being waited upon by the Lord Chancellor some of the chief Magistrates of Turin and by a great many Ladies and Gentlemen Caracena and Tuttavilla went to the Castle Gate they broke the Portculles and
two Castles neer this part of Moniferrat where the French were as yet who defending themselves better then it was thought they could have done he sent the Marquess of Caracena thither afterwards with his Brigade and with some pieces of Artillety who drove the French from both those places and reduced them to his power within three days space thus the Governour having put strong Garrisons into the Towns of Piedmont and left 5000 Foot and 1000 Horse with Prince Thomaso undercamp Master Bolognino the winter coming on he retired with the rest of the Army to the State of Millain and having quartered them in several parts of that State he prepared all that Winter for the next years War this mean while the business was not given over between the Citadel and the City of Turin for as soon as the Truce was expired those of the Citadel began to draw neer the Enemies Fortifications by new Trenches and works under ground and having sprung a Mine a fierce Skirmish ensued by which those of the Citadel advanc'd to very neer the Trenches of the City and could not be driven from thence till the next night when the Princes Souldiers having also sprung a Mine under the Enemies new advancements they also made a great assault wherein though they were stoutly resisted and were repuls'd more then once yet they got the better of the business and made those of the Citadel not onely forsake the station wherein they were but forced them to retreat a little more backward then where they had been before they then fell to make use of their Artillery those of the Citadel endeavoured to beat down the great Tower in the great Piazza from whence they were play'd upon in the Citadel and those without strove to beat down the Keep within the Citadel from whence the houses of the City were beaten down by the Artillery of the Citadel and each of them obtained their ends but not alike for the Tower after above 2000 Cannon shot was beaten down to the ground and the Keep of the Citadel was onely beaten down so low as the City could receive no prejudice from thence but notwithstanding the City and Citadel continued plying one another with Musket and Cannon shot whereby many were slain and many hurt and amongst the rest Mounsieur di Cavogne Governour of the Citadel received a sleight hurt in the face and in this manner did things continue here all the Winter In which interim they forbare not to fortifie the City against the Citadel Harcourt being with them who were preserved at the Bridge gotten to Carmagnuola quarter'd his men in those Towns of Piedmont which held yet for the Dowager amongst which were Saluzzo with all the Marquisate Alba Fossano Chirasco Savigliano Bene Carmagnuola Chiavasso and yet Harcourt was not idle for he furnish'd the Citadel of Turin with such things as were chiefly necessary for some moneths and when the Governour of Millain was retreated he vex'd some Towns which held for the Prince he took Busca a Town between Cuni and Savigliano and passing to Rossona and Drovero they yielded to him upon conditions before his men came to him he went then to Rovello which having easily taken he quarter'd there all that Winter but the French were generally hated by the Piedmontese who taking up Arms denied to pay them usual contributions and abhorring their government declared themselves for the Prince who that he might not spend that Winter idely sent the horse which lay idle in Turin to scour the parts about Chiavasso where together with much other hurt which he did he streightned that Town very much which the French desired to relieve but could never do it the Governour of Millain met also with a no inconsiderable encounter wherein he lost five Troops of Horse which were quarter'd in Constanza and kept the territories of Canava from being overrun by the Garrison of Cassalle which Troops whilest they lay carelesâ—… there were assaulted aâ—… unawares by four hundred Horse which came out of Cassale who slew some of them took other some prisoners and suffer'd but very few of them to escape and yet all this while peace and agreement was treated on between the Dowager and the Princes not without desire to see it Effected The End of the Sixteenth Book THE HISTORY OF THE WARS OF ITALY Book XVII The Contents YOu shall read in this Book the Treaties of Agreement between the Dowager and the Princes and the Interest between the Princes and the Governour of Millain how the Governour goes with a powerful Army to Cassalle how it is relieved by Harcourt how he fought the Governour before he could bring in the succour and had the better of the Fight and did not onely relieve but perfectly free the place Harcourt being victorious goes presently to Turin he takes the Capuchins Bridge over the Poe fortifies himself there and afterwards begirts the City with a vast line and endeavours to get it by famine Prince Thomaso being in it but ere long he seeth the Governour upon the Hills with a powerful Army coming to relieve the besieged Prince the Governour finding it impossible to bring the succour by that way tryes to get a pass over the River towards Montcalleri and having gotten it he passeth over the Poe where quitting the Hills he takes up new quarters and thinking to make the French abandon the enterprize by famine he possesseth himself of the Avenues by which Victualls were brought to the Camp so as they would have been quickly made to remove had not Prince Thomaso who was impatient of delay made the Governour to fall upon the Enemies Trenches and to relieve him so which falling out unfortunately and the Governour not thinking himself any longer safe in his quarters beyond the Poe returns to his quarters upon the Hills where he 〈◊〉 assisting the besieged in what he was able till the City was 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which hapned two moneths and eleven days after the unâ—…te 〈◊〉 given to the French Trenches that the besieged City might be relieved Prince Thomasâ—… comes 〈◊〉 of Turin and retreats to Inurea 〈◊〉 â—…e it defined by Monsigâ—… Mazzarini who was come Embassadour from the King of France into Piedmont a little before Turin was surrendred to joyn with the Frenchie but Count Siruela coming to him from the Governour of Millian he makes new capitâ—…lations with him to joyn with the Crown of Spains and the Câ—…ns Della Rivera being sent by the same Governour to the same purpose to the Prince Cardinal the Embassadour Mazzarini having notice thereof forcâ—…th Prince Thomaso to joyn with the French upon conditions one of which was that the Prince should go to Paris within one moneths space which condition was not observed for the Prince instead of going to France passeth secretly to Nice where he and his brother â—…e connfirm their union to the crown of Spain to Rivera the Embassador Mazzarini who went to Nice to confirm the one Prince and to
Prince encourageing him to persevere in defending the Town and promising him that to boot with these succors he would come thither himself shortly with a powerful Army to relieve him and set him at liberty and telling him that what had hapned at Cassalle was but a trick of Fortune and had rather dispers'd then discomfited his men that he stay'd now to rally them under his Colours to the end that with them and with others which he expected very shortly from other parts he might come and relieve him and the City All those that were sent by the Governour got luckily into Turin and Don Mauritio got thither also who was returned with the Prince his Horse from Cassalle though somewhat lessened by Harcourts Cannon which thundered from the hills but little powder could be brought in for want of Waggon horses and the ways being afterwards block'd up and possessed by the En my the rest could not enter without much prejudice to the Enterprise especially for that Prince Thomaso had sent 400 Horse before the ways were block'd up to be a conduct to that Munition which Horse was not suffered to return for the aforesaid blocking up of the ways so the Prince was not only deprived of that provision but also of those Horse which had he had them he would doubtlesly have made greater impressions upon the Enemy by sallies then he did but now he was forced to be more circumspect in his night Assaults 3000 Citizens able to bear Arms were added to the Kings men who were employed in desending the City and also many Country people who were come thither for refuge who were a great help in their handy-works so as the Prince though he wanted fighting men and war-like amunition yet finding that the Governour was mindful of him and of preserving the City and taking that assistance which he had already sent as a Token of what he would do in the future he was not wanting to himself in doing what he could in so short a time to defend the City Turin stands in a large and pleasant Plain twelve miles Eastwards from the Alpes the Poe runs almost within a Bow-shot of it on the East side and on the North the Dora comes almost to one Angle of the City and a little beyond la Dora runs la Stura both which Rivers fall into the neighbouring Poe on the South side runs the Sagone rather a Torrent then a River which falls also into the Poe over against Cavâ—…reto The City thus scituated is divided into three parts the new City the old City and the Citadel The new City joyns to the old on the South they are only divided by a Wall but are both enclosed within a Wall and as the new Town advanced a little further then the old towards the Poe so not thrusting out so far towards the Alps it leaves a spacious Plain whereon the Citadel stands which being further from the Poe then the City wants not only the convenâ—…nces which she might receive by the neighbourhood thereof but not being able to command the River cannot debar it from Navigation The Citadel is a Pentagon The circuit of both the old and new City is flank'd round about with Bulwarks and with Ditches The Prince when he was master of it did not believe he should be forc'd to defend it from without but imploy'd himseâ—…f totally against the Citadel and neglected securing the City on the out side but learning by what had hapned at Cassalle that instead of minding the taking of the Citadel it behoved him to take care of descending the City he fell with all speed and diligence to fortifie it from any assault that might be made from without and leaving smaller matters his chiefest care was to defend the Bridge over the Poe which as whilst it was in his hands it kept the way open for the bringing of succour which he expected would be brought from the Governour so when it should be taken by the enemy it kept out any succour that might be brought by that way for then the reliever must find some other way to pass his Army over the River which was almost impossible to do in the face of a powerful enemy This Bridge is made of Stone and is the best that crosses the Poe at the left side of the foot thereof towards Turin stands a little Burrough the other which stands on the right side lies under a little hill upon which there is a Church and a Covent of Capuchins and this side being all hilly other higher hills stand above that of the Capuchins one above another The Prince munited this Bridge at both ends with Trenches nor herewithall contented he munited very well the aforesaid Church and Covent and Moreover built a little Fort upon another higher hill which overlooked the Monastery he put 300 Foot into these Fortifications and Victuals and Ammunition sufficient for fifteen days within which time he hoped the Governour would appear with his Army These Works were not fully finished when the French Army appeared on three sides the first that appeared having block'd up the Passes of Susa Lanza and the Canevese advanced to the City towards the Dora and the new Park which answers upon that Angle of the City which is called the green Bulwark and which includes the Dukes Palace and Gardens in defence whereof the Prince had made a sudden Trench formed like a pair of Shears the other quartered on the upper hill above the Church and Covent of the Capuchins and the third passing the Poe at Montcalleri by a wooden Bridge that is there advanced to the Palace Valentino whereof after a small Skirmish making themselves masters they the next night took the Burrough which as we said stands between the City and the Bridge and not meeting with any resistance there they assaulted the Bridge where they found some resistance but having mortally wounded the Captain who did defend it they made themselves also masters thereof the Garrison retiring towards the Monastery as to an advantagious place which was not able neither to keep there long for the little Fort which as hath been said was built and fortified by the Prince above the Monastery was at the same time assaulted and taken by those who had taken up their quarters upon the hill which was above that Fort whence playing upon the Covent which was beneath they easily took it though they were manfully fought with for at a third assault the assailants entred the place and from thence went to the Church whither the defendants had retreated where without any respect to the holiness of the place they put all to the sword that were there except the Officers and sacking moreover not only such secular things as were brought thither as into a place of safety but without any distinction laid hands upon such as were sacred and dedicated to divine worship by which good success waxing more bold and meeting with no opposition for the Prince being desirous
stronger on that side These Fortifications according to the ancient custom were very great and good but being much ruin'd by time they were well secured by many Rampiers with some half moons and out-works after that the Duke of Longueville as hath been said had been before it So as at the present it was sufficiently well fortified In the uppermost part of Conio there stands a Citadel which is well munited by the nearness of the two Rivers which joyn together a little beyond it and by Fortifications the Garrison consisted of 1400 part whereof were paid by the Prince Cardinal part by the Spaniards The first were commanded by Count Broglio the others by Leiutenant Colonel Catteneo to these were added all the Citizens and many of the Country people who were fit to bear Arms. Count Iovan Baptista Vivaldo was Governour of the place which was sufficiently provided of Ammunition and Victuals it was much esteemed for the opinion which was held of it that it was not to be taken this Fame it had gotten not onely by the scituation thereof but for its having withstood four Royal Armies led on by excellent Champions Wherefore Harcourt who thought the glory he had won in his former action somewhat eclips'd by his unfortunate success in the siege of Inurea aspired not onely to regain his former reputation by this action but to purchase much greater if he should effect that which many famous Commanders had failed in He ordered Marquess Villa to prepossess himself of the avenues taking with him 1500 of the Dowagers Horse and 1500 of the Kings Horse who at the very first rouâ—…ed a Corps de guard of Carbines commanded by the Commendadore Pagliero then going to St. Dalmatio to block up the wayes which leâ—…d from Nizza and passing within Cannon-shot of Conio 300 Horse from the City fell upon his Rere which facing about and being led on by Count Camerano Son to General Villa a young man but of great expectation beat them back to beyond the River Ghez The like befell 400 Country people who as they arrived at the Town fell upon them behind but being pursued by the same Camerano they were routed so as Villa quarter'd safely in Borgo St. Dalmatio the next day as he would have passed over the Stura so to go to Nostra Lignora del l'Olmo he found the Bridge prepossess'd by about 400 of the Country neighbours who broke the bridge and defended the passage but Villa causing the bridge to be re-made before their eyes made his Horse pass over thorough a foord not far off and his Foot over the bridge and fell upon the Country people slew many of them and went to quarter at Nostra Lignora d' Olmo and at the old Town The mean while General Harcourt advanced with the whole Army and within sight of the City where he taking up his quarters before he began his siege he heard that the Prince had muster'd all his men together in the Canavese and the Governour his in Alessandria whereby they caused apprehension in Chiavasso Turin Carmagnuola and in the neighbouring Towns wherefore he ordered Marquess Villa to go to the parts about Turin with the Dowagers Horse and some French Foot Regiments not so much to oppose the Enemies attempts as for the safer and easier conduct of the Artillery which were to be brought from thence to Conio which when they came to the Camp they began to make Trench es The first was drawn on against the Bastion di Nostraâ—… Signora d' Olmo where Castellano Camp-Marshal was to fall on the second against the Bastion del Caraglio under Count Plessis Pralin against whom those within the Town made a fierce sally which proved very bloody and prejudicial to the besiegers and wherein they lost many men amongst which two prime Gentlemen Leva and Fausone Hâ—…rcourt caused a third Trench to be afterwards opened against the Bastion St. Anna whilst Pralin's men were already got to the Counterscarf of the Ditch to lodge there but he was valiantly repulss'd by the Desendants Wherefore Motta's men joyning with Pralin after a long and bloody fight they took the place where Seignior della Moretta was slain yet the Defendants lost no Courage nor the oppugners They sprung several Mines in several places and many sallies were made by both parties to hinder each others works wherein the Defendants shew'd much valour particularly Count Broglio the business was very doubtful on both sides and dangerous which was increased on the besiegers side by news of Prince Thomaso who press'd the Governour of Millain extraordinarily for speedy succour and who it was said would speedily appear with powerfull Forces Treaties of Agreement were therefore willingly listned unto which were introduced by Ripa Bishop of Mondovi with the Prince Cardinal whom by Letters and by the means of Abbot Soldato he advertised what danger Piedmont was likely to run if the French should become masters of that place He therefore moved that the Town might be surrendred upon fair condition to the Duke under the Dowagers Regency which would be much better for the Family of Savoy then to suffer it to fall into the French hands The Cardinal was not averse to the Proposal he therefore sent Abbot Boschetti immediately away from Nizza to Limone the furthermost Confines of the County to hold on and to conclude this Treaty which could not but be very acceptable also to the Dowager since thereby the Princes and the French should be excluded from possessing the place which without any hazard should fall to her and to her Son Wherefore she sent Instructions to her Referendario Philippo who was in the Camp to hasten the conclusion thereof and not onely the Dowager and Prince Cardinall but Harcourt without whose consent the Dowager would do nothing gave way willingly thereunto thinking that the case being so doubtful much glory would redound to him by the surrender of the Town though it should not fall into the Kings hands since by his means it should be taken from the Prince Cardinal and be put into the Dukes hands Many were the debates and many the Proposals which were made to the Prince Cardinal to make him condescend to the surrender but he would accept of none being assured by the besieged and by many of his Court that the siege would finally prove vain Harcourt therefore wished it might speedily be concluded for when the Town should be ready to surrender he would hear of no Treaty but his threats were in vain for the Prince Cardinal was resolved not to admit of any treaty not so much out of the strength and impregnability of the place as out of the great hopes he had of powerful succour Prince Thomaso who was as desirous to preserve the Town press'd the Governour of Millain exceedingly for forces to relieve it but could never get him to come directly to the relief of Conio for the Spanish cautiousness would not permit him to hazard so great a strength of
also there were but 1000 Foot and 200 Horse in Asti under the command of Captain Pietro Gonzales a valiant Commander the Governour fearing the loss of that City left a competent number of Souldiers before the Castle of Tortona and recommending the care of that Siege to Don Iovan Vasques Coronado went with the greatest part of his Forces into Alessandria that he might offer at relieving Asti at a neerer distance the Prince at his drawing neer that City endeavoured to steal over the Tanaro and to this purpose having got a barque which served to pass travellers over the river and a Mill which was fitted to the Haven he by means of these past some Souldiers over to the Abbey of S. Bartholomew that they might raise a little Fort to guard that shore where he left four Companies in Garrison the Governour having notice thereof sent Don Vincenzo Gonzaga that way with 3000 Foot and 200 Horse who when he came to the Abbey slew some of the Defendants and drove other some away took and destroy'd the Fort and made himself master of the Baâ—…que and of the Mill and the next day the Governour came to the same Abbey and clim'd up a hill together with the same Gonzaga and the Marquess of Caracena and Serra from whence he discovered the City and the Prince incamp'd before it and having by the consent of his companions sent 400 Horse over the Foord of Tanaro to relieve Asti giving the Captain express order that as he went towards the Foord he should observe what signs should be given him from the hill and perceiving that the Prince marched with all his horse to withstand their passage over the Foord the Governour made signs immediately to the Captain of the Horse that he should retreat who obeyed him the Governour by this unfortunate attempt lost all hopes of relieving the Town and not daring to forgo Tortona wherein he was so much concern'd for the preservation of Asti which he could not possibly effect without coming to a battle which Gonzales foreseeing or as some others say being advised by the Governour so to do and finding it impossible for him to defend so great a circuit of Wall with so few men after some shot was made he agreed with the Prince to abandon the City retaining the Cattle and the Citadel so as 200 Horse which he had with him might be suffer'd to pass safely into Alessandria which being agreed upon and performed the City came into the Prince his power who presently fell to make Mines under the Castle and Citadel so as the Castle being play'd upon by the Artillery and molested by Mines and some assaults which were valiantly withstood surrendred after three days space upon condition that Gonzales might go with 200 men which he had with him into the Citadel whereupon the Prince got the Castle and fell to besiege the Citadel which not being able to hold out for want of Victuals did ere long surâ—…ender upon honourable conditions by which Geonalea with the Garrison went safe into the City of Alessandria and the Prince by the full victory of that City became also master of the Tanaro the Governour foreseeing that Asti being taken the Prince would presently fall to relieve Tortona and to that purpose that he began to send quantity of provision into Nizza and Asti ordered Marquess Caracena to go with Horse and Foot to the taking in of Acqui whereunto Caracena thinking that it was needless to use Cannon by reason of a breach that was in the wall which though it were fil'd up with earth and bavins he went to give an assault on that part but not being able to force it he tarried there till Cannon were brought from the City of Alessandria which as soon as the Citizens saw they surrendered Acqui their lives being saved the womens honours preserved and respect being born to Churches that the Citizens might suffer less prejudice onely the Spaniards were suffer'd to enter who sent much of the meal that they found there into Annone and much whereof during the Siege was carried into the Castle about which Caracena not willing to busie himself especially since he had sent back the Cannon into Alessandria he sent Colonel Stoz with great part of his men to oppose a body of Horse which was sent by Plessis and Villa to relieve the besieged place which relief being repulss'd by Stoz Caracena past on to Rivalta in Montferrate where he fell to lay the country waste as well to feed his Horse with the unripe corn as to incommodiate the succorers in their march as much as he could 800 Neapolitan Horse were at this time come unto the camp which the Governour sent to Pozzvolo and the parts adjacent that they might keep off whosoever should come to relieve the place besieged he moreover caused deep ditches to be digg'd about the line of circomvolution and finally ommitted not any thing that was necessary for the obtaining of the victory which he so much desired Souldiers came also daily to within the line from the States Militia and many Millainese Lords amongst which Prince Trivultio who in the siege the year before came to the camp with 1500 Foot and 200 Horse all of them being his own Vassals and at his own charge conducted and not at all wearied with so great an expence he was one of the first that came now to the recovery of the lost City Prince Thomaso came also with so numerous a succour as was thought could not be withstood and foording over the Scrivia four Miles beneath Tortona he came to within four Miles of the City and kept his men in the Towns of Alvernca and Castellari which are at the Foot of the hill the next day being accompanied by Marquess Villa he went up the hill with four hundred Horse to discover the most convenient stations which when he had done he caused his men to come up the hill with the Artillery and placed them in Ranks together with the Artillery against the Line and made as if he would presently fall to an assault but did not the Spanish Army was ran ked on the other side with in the Line with their Artillery ready to receive and repulse the threatened assault but resolved not to stir out nor to forgo their advantage nor to hazard that victory which they thought they were sure of as long as they kept within the â—…renches at last after four days the Prince drew off and foregoing the thought of relieving the City and consequently the victory which he had so much striven for he came down the hill on the same side that he had come up making his Rere his Van his van his rere being come upon the plain he made some shot towards the Castle which served for a sign to the Desendants to wish them to surrender which they did the same day upon Honourable conditions of carrying with them four pieces of Cannon they marched out to the number of
1300 and were convoy'd to Rivatella whither the Prince was retreated The Prince retreated some days after towards Asti and in his passage much prejudiced the parts of the Sâ—…ate of Millain through which he went the Souldiers sack'd the Noble rich temple and Covent del Bosco erected formerly by Pope Pius the fifth who was born there and had endowed it with many â—…ich revenueâ—… and had furnished the Vestry wonderful richly The Prince lay idle with his Army some days in l'Astigiana to refresh them and finding how prejudicial it would be to make any acquisition in the State of Millian he thought it would be better to recâ—…ver the Towns of Piedmont which weâ—…e yet held by the Spaniards and to joyn with other Forces which the Dowager then raised to recover her own Towns for when she saw Prince Thomaso gone with the Army to relieve Tortona she gathering together all those that remained to defend Piedmont sent them under Count Broglio together with her own guards and those of her Sons to recover Villa nova which was reinforced by orders from the Governour by two hundred Horse which were sent thither from Trino and Pontestura as soon as he discovered the Dowagers intentions so as it seemed to be sufficiently secured wherefore the Dowager as soon as the Prince was return'd with the Army from Tortona sent Marquess Villa thither with his own Cavalry onely to keep the French from concurring in the enterprize Villa when he was come to the camp weighed the condition of the place which being seated in a plain far from any woods from whence onely he could have bavins to make Trenches that place appeared untakable being therefore content to besiege it at a distance he imploy'd himself in keeping out succour and in laying the Countrey waste so to bring the Towns-men to surrender and the Commander of the Town coming within a few days to Parly the surrender was agreed upon on condition that the Articles should be allowed of by the Governour of Millain and being commanded by the Governour to make good the Town for that he would come quickly to relieve him the treaty broke and the siege continued during which time the French Army was recruited with new men brought by the Viscount Turin so as those being added to the Dowagers men the Army was made 15000 Foot and 5000 Horse Prince Thomaso was to command them all for Longueville was already returned to France wherefore the Prince hearing that for certain there waâ—… but 600 Foot in Garrison in the City of Alessandria and his own recruiâ—…es considered thought it not fit to let slip the opportunity of making himself master of that City either by Scalado secret intelligence or by storm for he thought his Forces so far superiour to the Garrison as he should meet with no resistance and hoping that when he should have taken it it being almost upon the confines of Piedmont he might keep it more easily then Tortona which was far from thence he joyned his Forces to those of France and of the Dowagers in the plain of Cassalle and betook himself to the enterprize with firm opinion of good success being come to the Walls of Allessandria he quartered himself in the Orchard neer thereunto on both sides of the Tanaro and sent Viscount Turen to take up his quarters on the East side The Governour Siruela began â—…o doubt Valenza by reason of the joyning of the Forces in the Plain before Cassalle and by the Prince his spâ—…edy march wherefore he went from Pavia where he then was thither ward giving order to his men to follow him But having heard before he came to Valenza that the Prince was gone with all his Forces to before Allessandria he was much more surprised by reason of the small Garrison which he knew was in it wherefore he sent for Count Galliazzo Trotti and ordered him that he should endeavour by all possible means to get quickly into Allessandria with all the Horse that he could muster Trotti failed not in obeying his orders and having gathered together about 1500 Horse went about it he knew that it was not safe to enter by the Gate which was nearest Valenza because the Prince was incamp'd before it he therefore resolved to enter by the Gate which looks towards Genoa on the opposite side But doubting Count Turen who he knew was incamp'd on that side he marched towards Tortona seeming as if he went to guard that City and when he was advanced so far by that way as none could observe him he returned on the right hand and went towards Castellazzo where he past over the Bormio and deceived Turen who conceiving that â—…is march towards Tortano was but feigâ—…ned and that he would soon return by the same way foording over the Bormia there would endeavour to get into Allessandria set himself to guard the foord over Bormio which is usually frâ—…quented by those which pass to and again from Tortona which foord lies four miles below that of Castellazzo hoping to light upon him theâ—…e in his return But Trotti who had past over Bormio a little higher â—…ame without any obstacle about break of day to the walls of Allessandria so unlooked for as he was plaied upon by the Cannon as an Enemy till Colonel Stoz who was very well known advanc'd and assuring the Defendant that it was succour was received with infinite joy and Jubiâ—…e Trotti being entred with so great are inforcement Don Antonio Sottello Governour of the City being as it were revived from the dead went out and fell upon the Prince his quarters where there hapned a long and bloody skirmish which continued till the coming on of night when the Prince finding for certain that so great a succour was entred and consequently failing of his hopes thought it best to make use of the obscurity of night and to retreat so the City of Allessandria was miraculously free'd Count Siruela ended his Government honourably with the recovery of Tortona and the freeing of Allessandria from so neer and so imminent danger who was succeeded by the Marquess of Velada who was come from Flanders where he had been General of the Horse and was therein succeeded by the Marquess Caracena who having quiâ—…ted the place of General of the Horse in the State of Millain wherein he had succesfully served went to take the like charge upon him in Flanders As the beginning of this Government met with no favourable succeâ—…s â—…o fared 〈◊〉 not much betteâ—… afterwards Villa nova was surrendred to Marquesâ—… Villa not without some imputation to the Governour of the Town who being cited to Millain to give an account of 3000 sacks of Corn which together with the Town were delivered to him by which he might have maintained the Town longer he durst never appear wherefore he was thought guilty of fraud in delivering up the Town This loss was ere long followed by the like of Trino for Prince Thomaso retreating from Allessandria to Cassalle
a day of Battel neer the City Wherein the Spanish Army being Victors it goes before that City whither the Duke was withdrawn with his men about which the Governour having imployed much time to little purpose At last peace is concluded by the means of Princes Ministers 59 BOOK IV. The King being but badly satisfied with the peace of Asti makes Don Pietro di Toledo Governour of Millain Between whom and the Duke new differences arise â—…ouching the execution of the Articles of peace The Venetians by reason of the Slavonians who molest their Navigation in the Gulf make war in Friuli against the Arch-Duke and in Istria against the Emperour and possessing themselves of many Towns in Friuli come before Gradisca from whence they depart not many days after by reason of Treaties of Agreement which were introduced The Duke of Savoy complaining still of the not observance of peace fears to be again assaulted by the Governour and therefore prepares for war again He joins under-hand with the Venetians and calls Diguieres Marshal of France into Piedmont but is quickly and unexpectedly assaulted in Savoy by the Duke de Nemours who is somented with monies and promises from the Governour of Millain The King of France to provide against the commencing uproars in Lombardy sends Monsieur di Bettuve thither and the Pope Monsignore Lodovisio Arch-Bishop of Bologna Preparations for a new war are renewed in the State of Millain and in Piedmont which is again begun betwixt the Duke and the Governour who draws neer the Confines of Piedmont with an Army 113 BOOK V. The Duke unexpectedly assaults the Spanish Army which was entred his State and being beaten retreats to Assigliano From whence finding that the enemy went to possess themselves of Crescentino he departs and speedily preventing them defends it The Spanish Army take Santya and San Germano The Duke endeavouring to keep back their Victuals was forc'd to come to a Battel where he was again worsted The Popes Nuntio and the French Embassadour hold the Governours Forces in hand by introducing new Treaties of Peace In the interim the Marquess of Mortara entering le Langhe takes many of the Dukes Castles and Don Sanchio di Luna takes Gattinara Winter coming on the Governour fired Santya and leaving a Garrison in St. Germano sends the resi of his Army into their Quarters and retires into the State of Millain The Duke the Prince his Son being come to him from Savoy and the Marshâ—… Diguieres from France with new men takes the Principality of Messerano and makes himself master of San Damiano Alba and Monteggio Towâ—… in Montferrat Wherefore Mortara firing Canelli abandons the Langhe The Marshal being sent for back by the King returns with his men to France The Venetians whilest they are busying themselves to little purpose in Friuli are molested at Sea by the Spanish Fleet sent by the Viceroy of Naples into the Gulf which not being able to draw the Venetian Fleet to fight take three Gallies richly fraught 149 BOOK VI. The Governour of Millain goes with his Army to before Vercelles and besieging it on all sides and the Town not being able to be relieved after a long Siege he takes it upon Articles The Capitulations of Peace as well for what concern'd Piedmont as Friuli are Treated of in the Court of Spain and are concluded in the Court of France as also at Madrid The Duke of Savoy being assisted by the French who came into Piedmont after the Surrender of Vercelles takes some Towns in Montferrat and in Allessandria And at last in pursuance of the Capitulations stipulated in the Courts of France and Spain the Peace is concluded in Pavia between the Governor of Millain and the French Embessador The Viceroy of Naples sends some â—…lieoons into the Gulf in defence of the Ragâ—…siens who were vex'd by the Venetian â—…t which Galleoons get the better in fight of the Venetians A Conspiracy is discovered in Venice and some rumours are spread abroad upon the Confines of Venice toward Millain between the Spanish Souldiers and those of the Commonwealth which being appeased a period is put to the war and Italy is restored to her former peace 186 BOOK VII In this seventh Book you have the condition of the affairs of Italy after the appeasement of the War of Piedmont The death of two Popes as also the death of the King of Spain and of the Emperour The Insurrections in the Valtoline the occasion of new rumours which arose from hence in Italy of new jealousies and of new Leagues made by many Princes against the Crown of Spain The Forts of the Valtoline deposited into the Popes hands The Prince of Wales his Iourney into Spain The Prince of Urbin's death and the approaching Escheat of that State And lastly the seeds of new troubles rising between the Genoese and the Duke of Savoy by reason of their having purchased the Fee-farm of Zuccarello whereat the Duke was displeased Here are also touched by way of passage some accidents of Warr which hapned in Germany Flanders and in the East and West-Indies 212 BOOK VIII In this Eighth Book you have the Description of the Commonwealth of Genoa her Interest and good Correspondency with the Crown of Spain The Diet held at Susa wherein two attempts are resolved upon the one against the Valtoline the other against Genoa for the execution whereof many preparations are made both in France and in Italy The French fall down into the Valtoline under the conduct of the Marquess of Coure and driving the Churches Forces from the Forts which were deposited in the Popes hands they make themselves masters thereof they likewise fall down into Piedmont under de Diguieres Grand Constable and joyning with the Duke of Savoy and with his Forces go to the Enterprise of Genoa and proceed far in that State the Pope sends his Nephew Legate into France The Genoeses are reduced into a very dangerous condition by hostile Arms. 257 BOOK IX By relief of Monyes and Victuals sent from Spain and Men from Naples Genoa is comforted in the midst of her troubles she is encouraged by the wants of the Enemies Army and through the disagreeing of their Commanders and is at last wholly freed by Friends coming into the Fiâ—…ld with a powerful Army The Enemies Army retreats from the Enterprise of Genoa anâ—… attempts Savona but being overtaken by Feria retires to Piedmont Feria takes the City of Acqui he goes afterwards to Asti and from thence to Verrua where he stays long to little purpose lâ—…aving many of his men and being forc'd to give over the Enterprise returns with his Army much lessened into the State of Millain many actions happen at the same time in the besieging and defending of Riva di Chiavenna wherein the Spaniards have still the better of the French they drive the French at last out of the Valtoline and raise the Siege of Riva The English Fleet falling upon Spain there is repuls'd and
Princes absence is sworn Governess and Regent being compel'd by the King of France she renews League with him The Governour of Millain goes to before Vercelli and after a long Siege takes it upon Articles The Princes of Savoy assisted by the Spaniards and Piedmontese take many Towns and make much progress they go to before Turin and having tarried before it some days retire without doing any thing falling as before to over-run Piedmont they are received every where till Forces being sent to the Dutchess from France under the Duke of Longueville she recovers Chiavasco and other Towns which the Princes had taken The Prince Cardinal fearing Corneo goes to defend it and Prince Thomaso going once more with the Spanish Forces to before Turin surpriseth the Town and the Governour of Millain coming in unto him with all their Forces attempt the taking of the Citadel whither the Dutchess was retired The Siege is suspended by a Truce which being ended the French under the new General Count Hartcourt take Cheri but being presently besieged by the Governour of Millain they are forced through Famine to quit it and retreat in the face of the enemy to Carmagnuola 628 BOOK XVII You shall read in this Book the Treaties of Agreement between the Dowager and the Princes and the interests between the Princes and the Governour of Millain how the Governour goes with a powerful Army to Cassalle how it is relieved by Harcourt how he fought the Governour before he could bring in the succour and had the better of the Fight and did not only relieve but perfectly free the place Harcourt being victorious goes presently to Turin he takes the Capuchins Bridge over the Poe fortifies himself there and afterwards begirts the City with a vast Line and endeavours to get it by Famine Prince Thomaso being in it but ere long he seeth the Governour upon the Hills with a powerful Army coming to relieve the besieged Prince the Governour finding it impossible to bring the succour by that way strives to get a pass over the River towards Montcalleri and having gotten it he passeth over the Poe where quitting the Hills he takes up new quarters and thinking to make the French abandon the enterprize by Famine he possesseth himself of the Avenues by which Victuals were brought to the Camp so as they would have been quickly made to remove had not the Prince Thomaso who was impatient of delay made the Governour to fall upon the Enemies Trenches and to relieve him so which falling out unfortunately and the Governour not thinking himself any longer safe in his quarters beyond the Poe returns to his quarters upon the Hills where he tarried assisting the besieged in what he was able till the City was surrendred which hapned two moneths and eleven dayes after the unfortunate assault given to the French Trenches that the besieged City might be relieved Prince Thomaso comes out of Turin and retreats to Inurea where he is desired by Monsigniore Mazzarini who was come Embassadour from the King of France into Piedmont a little before Turin was surrendred to joyn with the French but Count Siruela coming to him from the Governour of Millain he makes new capitulations with him to joyn with the Crown of Spain and the Count Della Rivera being sent by the same Governour to the same purpose to the Prince Cardinal the Embassadour Mazzarini having notice thereof forceth Prince Thomaso to joyn with the French upon conditions one of which was that the Prince should go to Paris within one moneths space which condition was not observed for the Prince instead of going to France passeth secretly to Nice where he and his brother re-conform their union to the Crown of Spain to Rivera the Embassadour Mazzarini who went to Nice to confirm the one Prince and to draw the other over to the French party laboured the contrary very much at the same time the Governour of Millain is sent for into Spain and is succeeded in that Government by Count Siruela the French go to Montcalvo take the Town at their first arrival and afterwards the Castle which yields without expecting succour 686. BOOK XVIII The Crown of France and French Commanders being but badly satisfied with Prince Thomaso for his non-observance of the Capitulation made by him go to drive him out of Inurea which being better defended then assaulted holds out till the Governour sends succour who going afterwards to before Chiavasso Forces the French almost to quit the Enterprise that they may relieve Chiavasso and Don Vincenzo Gonzaga coming to the French quarters before Inurea forceth them to their much prejudice to give over the Enterprise wholly and the Prince enters joyfully into the City The Dowagers Generals recover Ceva Mondovi and the Castle of Carru and then joyning with the French go to before Cuneo and take it The Spaniards take Montcalvo The Prince of Monaco drives out the Spanish Garrison and introduceth the French to the great prejudice of the Spanish Affairs the misfortunes whereof are by a short digression related Cardinal Richlieu dies The Conde Duca falls from all Authority and Greatness in the Court of Spain The differences between the Dowager and the Princes are at last composed The Princes forsake the Spanish party and adhere unto the French Prince Thomaso joyning with the French after some small actions done to the prejudice of Spain goes with the Duke of Longueville with a strong Army to before Tortona which after a long time is taken but some months after is re-taken with much ado by the Spaniards in which interim Prince Thomaso recovers Asti and all the Towns that were held by the Spaniards in Piedmont except Vercelli 744 THE HISTORY OF THE WARS OF ITALY BOOK I. The Contents FRancis Duke of Mantua and Montferrate being dead Charles Emanuel Duke of Savoy pretends the return of his Daughter Margaret Wife to the late Francis into Piedmont together with Mary her only Daughter Cardinal Ferdinando Brother and Successor to Francis retards his Sister in Law 's return and keeps his Niece in Mantua Hereupon differences arise between the two Dukes wherefore the Duke of Savoy renewing his ancient claim to Montferrat which was pretended to by his Predecessors assaults that State at unawares possesseth himself of the Cities of Alba and Trino indeavours the like of Moncalvo but not being able to get the Fort levies people to take it The Condition of Italy is also given in the Prooemium then by way of digression the Duke of Savoys pretences to Montferrate is discoursed upon and many other Interests and Accidents which occurred between the said Duke and the Court of Spain at several Times and upon divers Occasions ITALY hoped long to continue that Peace which She had already injoyed for so many years when by the unexpected death of Henry the Fourth King of France she was freed of the great suspition of War which she had cause to apprehend by reason of the great preparations of that Kingdom
Asti for what remains it is not divided from Piedmont either by Rivers or Mountains or secured by any Fort The Boundeurs of particular places do distinguish the Jurisdiction of the two Princes This State was not any way prepared for so sudden an assault for the Duke of Mantua's Officers and all the Inhabitants being comforted in expectation of the Marriage which was in Treaty thought themselves to be in secure peace and looked for nothing less then to be assaulted and so much the less for that to boot with Montferrat having been always in the Kings protection whereby they thought they should not be subject to novelties Duke Ferdinando was also assured by the Governour of Millain that the Duke of Savoy would not move without his knowledge and that howsoever he would be ready to assist him and under colour of not giving the Savoyard further occasion of Arming the Governour had exhorted the Mantuan to casheir many of the Montferrat Militia and to Quarter them elsewhere who were Mustered in that State since his Brothers death whe efore the Duke of Savoy making use of this occasion resolved to invade Montferrat by night in several parts on the Twenty second of April and having ordered the Count de Verrua and Captain Alessandro Guerrino to move at the appointed time the latter from Châ—…arasco whereof he was Governour to fall upon Alba and the other from Asti to possess himself of Montcalvo He himself accompanied by the Princes Victorio and Thomaso his eldest and his youngest Sons by Count Guido St George and other Lords of Piedmont parted from Vercelli with 600 Foot some Troops of Horse and Carirages of Ammunition and marched that very night towards Trino whither beâ—…ng come a little before day break he sent the Commendator della Mâ—…a with some Souldiers to fasten a Petarde after whom he sent 300 Provincials commanded by Captain Rovigliasco and keeping a little behind with the rest of his men he waited till when the Petard should have play'd he might enter together with them The mean while he sent some to take a Castle near the Poe called Gabbiano which yielded without making any resistance The Portcullies of Trino was beaten in two by the Peâ—…ard but Motta advancing further to force the Gate with another Petard which was prepared for that purpose whilst meeting with some hinderance some little delay was made the day began to clear up and these within getting upon the Walls slew the Petardier and hurt some others by Musquet shot amongst which the Commandator della Motta the Barons of Hermansa and Tornone Wherefore the Duke failing in his first design of surprising that Town betook himself to play upon the walls with Artillery which he had caused to be brought from Vercelli and to keep off succour he cut a Trench cross the way which leads from Cassalle placing some Horse in Garison there and some Souldiers to guard the way which leads to Palazzâ—…lo 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 places near to Montferrat The Militia of which places hearing of the Dukes coming marched to get into Trino but were beaten back by the Commandator della Manta The number of the Dukes men multiplied this mean while by the coming in of more and the Battery being begun by Cannon and being by approches advanced to certain Kills from whence they might commodiously play upon the Walls and then give an Assault those of the Town the third day afâ—…er the first assault surrendered the Town of their own accord their Lives Goods and Priviledges being preserved The rewards promised him by the Duke of Savoy and Intelligence held with Count Guido were of moâ—…e force with the Captain of that Place then the Loyalty which he owed to his Prince This Count writ to his friends that these Arms were taken up for the preservation of that State on the behalf of the Princess Mary to whom he said it did of right belong for which he was afterwards banish'd and branded with other aceustomed punishments as guilty of high Treason The same night the City of Alba was assaulted and taken by Guerrini who having fallen upon the Walls on sundry sides by break of day with 600. Foot and a Troop of Horse threw down the Gate towards Tanaro with a Petard by which the Souldiers entering and scaling the Walls in other parts they made themselve Masters thereof without much opposition before the Citizens could put themselves in order to defend the Walls amongst which the Cavalier della Motta the chief man of the City was slain together with some others and Silvio Via Captain of Horse who kept the Castle for Duke Ferdinand being abandoned was quickly forced to surrender it The City was this mean while miserably sack'd by the Dukes Souldiers yet women were kept unviolated and sacred things un-injured otherwise then was done in other parts of Montferrat yet they proceeded severely with the Bishop of that place for being violently drag'd from the sacred Altar where he was upon his knees he was ill beaten and had a Ring pluck'd off which he wore upon his finger and being led Prisoner in shamefull manner through the City he was forc'd to purchase his liberty with his monies which when he had disburs'd he had notwithstanding a Guard put upon him in his own Palace and at last forced to forego the City and to keep in Nivello a place belonging to the Empire It was thought that the Duke of Savoy held Intelligence here also for whom the Prince did suspect were Imprisoned afterwards Alba being taken and sack'd all the Towns and Villages thereabouts came into Guerrini for â—…ear of being plundred and of having their Country laid waste Diano a neighbouring Castle and of some consideration yielded unto him within three days but the assault which was intended to be given that very night to Montcalvo was deferr'd till the next night for the Souldiers who were deputed thereunto did a little delay their coming to Asti from whence Count Verrua parting the next night with a good number both of Foot and Horse he sent the Cavalier Redortiers before to fasten a Petard Some Companies of Montferrians were already gotten into that Town and yet the Town being very weak and abandoned by the Garison it was taken at the first Assault and also sack'd but greater provisions being requisite for taking the Castle which was strongly scituated Verrua returned to Asti from whence he sent more men and Artillery and began diligently to oppugne it The mean while the Duke published a Manifesto in Print wherein relating what had past between him and Duke Ferdinando in relation to the Dowager Dutchess his Daughter the Princess his Grand-child and his pretentions to Montferrat he complained that Duke Ferdinando had not kept his word to the Prince Victorio and replied unto the Reasons alledged to the contrary and by a short Narrative of his right to Montferrat indeavoured to justifie what he had done He therefore supplicated the Pope the Emperour the Catholick King
to find out some means of adjusting differences divers proposals were made but all of them so discrepant and so far differing from their opinions as after many days the business of that conferâ—…nce was found to prove vain and at this time Forces being come to the 〈◊〉 of Millain from Naples Germany and from the Switzers and the same directions coming again from Spain that the Decree should be put in execution as much at least as concerned the three first Articles the Deputies of Savoy were given to understand that the business not being to be spun out any longer it was in vain to pursue that begun Negotiation and that therefore the Kings Decree must without any delay be executed The Duke thought himself too imperiously dealt with and not willing to give way thereunto either in respect of his own honour or out of anger to the King to shew himself any whit more obsequious then at first he betook himself to make yet further provision for war and being desirous to take the honourable pretence of protecting Montferrat from the Spaniards as also to appease the French and reconcile the Italians he published an Order wherein allowing Commerce between his Subjects and those of Montferrat he commanded that none should injure them in their goods nor persons Montferrat remained therefore for the space of fourteen Moneths after the first assault free from troubles of War wherewith she had been so much molested and from the inconveniency of Quartering wherewith she had been much afflicted The End of the second Book THE HISTORY OF THE WARS OF ITALY BOOK III. The Contents THe Duke of Savoy is angry that the King should force him to lay down Arms and to Disband his men which refusing to do he is assaulted by a Spanish Army led on by the Duke of Millain who being entered by the Vercellese into the Confines of Piedmont and understanding that the Duke was gone to before Novara returns immediately to the State of Millain to drive him from thence Being returned he begins to build the Fort Scandovalle not far from Vercelles The Duke retreating to Vercelles desires succour from the French Venetians and other Princes many whereof Treat of agreement by their Embassadours sent into Piedmont The war continues the mean while with the Duke in pursuit whereof many accidents happening they come at last to a day of Battel near the City Wherein the Spanish Army being Victors it goes before that City whither the Duke was with-drawn with his men about which the Governour having imployed much time to little purpose At last peace is concluded by the means of Princes Ministers THe Wars of Piedmont succeed those of Montferrat wherein the Duke of Savoy sees those Forces turned against him which he formerly hoped to have been assisted by against Montferrat Wherein the Kings good intention contests against the Dukes anger the latter being occasioned through hatred and ill will which the Duke desired to vent against the Spanish State Ministers and which he had conceived upon several occasions and the other through a singular example to Puissant Princes in shewing them how much they are bound to defend and maintain those whom they have taken into their protection The present war proceeded from the precedent as it is often seen in humane bodies that one malady draws on another The Kings Title was the protection of Montferrat and together with the peace of Italy the quiet and safety of the States which he therein possesseth The Dukes pretence the exempting Kingly Command the preservation of the Independency and Sovereignty of Principality and his necessary defence against the Spanish Forces upon which he indeavoured to lay all that odium which he found to lye commonly upon himself as being the first Author of the troubles accusing the Spaniards of ambition and covetousness to possess his State Indeed none of right judgements could believe that the King who hâ—…d but a little before shewed himself to be so magnanimous and sincere a Protector of the Duke of Mantua which Duke had formerly upon all occasions shewed himself to be no very good friend to him should now without any just Title or apparent colour become a violent usurper of another mans States to whom he was streightly allied by Kindred especially in a time when the others great observancy of the King and confidence in him so notably witnessed to the world was sufficient not only to cancel the memory of all past offences but to make him merit the favour and particular protection of that Crown according as the Duke himself had so abundantly professed before And yet though the King was in all mens opinions no ways liable to any such suspicion yet there were those who discoursed variously upon the Kings Command given to the Duke according as men are variously inclined in their judgments No man thought it lawful for a Prince how much Superiour soever in State or Forces to command another who was no subject of his to disarm or to prohibit him doing what he thought best in his own Dukedom That otherwise the Dominions and Supream power of Princes would be confounded if under this or that pretence how just or reasonable soever it may appear such authority should be granted more to one then to another That the Kings of Spain had when they lifted sent great Armies into Italy not without great jealousie to the Italian Princes who were unequal to them for Forces or Dominion Therefore that was not to be blamed in others which they had so often permitted unto themselves especially since the Duke of Savoy's Forces were neither such nor so great as to give just occasion of jealousie either to the King or to any Italian Potentate And that he having already to please the King readily restored all that he had taken it was to be imagined that he would innovate nothing in the future as he had already openly declared he would not do And that if either the quiet or security of his own Dominions or his Clients as the King alledged should oblige him so to do it would be sufficient in such a case to be ready armed for what occasion soever should happen But that it was not lawful to invade anothers Territories by way of anticipation out of vain suspicions That this pretence and this Command was not only without reason but new and without example it not having ever been heard or read of that the like had been done amongst free Princes exempt from any subjection On the other side the protection of Montferrat was pleaded which could not be perfectly made good whilst it was not defended as well against the future eminent danger as from the present injury and prejudice That it is a no less trouble to oppress a State with forces then to ruine it with perpetual fear of neighbouring Arms That therefore the Title of War was no less just and honest which was made out of probable fear of being offended then to remove injuries
nor the Emperour and that in case of denial he should protest as he in the sight of God and man did protest that all the wrongs that should be done by War and the effusion of Christian bloud should be caused for his not having accepted that which had been with so much reason demanded of him and that then taking his leave and according to the Law of Nations demanding a safe conduct he should come to within the State of Millain For the better justification of the War the Prince of Castiglione went to Turin to do the like in the Emperours name the Dukes Soveraign Lord. But all this did no good for the Duke professing that he was much afraid he should be assaulted in his own Dominions by the Governours neighbouring Army as soon as he should have laid down Arms and that therefore thinking or seeming to think that all caution came short of the danger and that his utmost safety was therein concern'd he could not admit of any offer which was not consonant to his safety and dignity and therefore alledging that the Pope would not accept of his word with an obligation to make it be kept and the Emperour had not Forces in Italy sufficient to over see the observing of it tacitely reproaching the Governour for being faulty in his first word and that therefore he had no reason to confide the ein He therefore concluded that they should joyntly disarm offering to be himself the first who should dismiss some of his men and protesting that he would not have taken up Arms had it not been for the Governours threats accompanied with so great a strength to suppress him and that therefore he was now ready to defend himself to the last In sign whereof drawing off his Collar of the Golden Fleece he gave it to the Embassadour Gaetano who refusing to accept it he sent it after him to his house that he might send it to the King and though these and many other actions were clear evidences that the Dukes will was totally alienated from the King and that he would stand upon resistance yet could they not dis-deceive many Italians nor the Governour and Spanish Ministers in general nor mâ—…ke them alter their opinion for thinking that being so inferiour a Prince and so unable to resist the Forces of the Grown he would not dare to stand the tryal of the threatened War they were of opinion that having shew'd all the demonstrations of courage even to the veâ—…y last he would at the appearance of the Spanish Arms and Standards yield just as he had done the year beâ—…ore before Nice and therefore raâ—…her out of certainty then confidence and thinking that it would much detract from the Majesty and reputation of the Kings Affairs if they should by fortifying themselves seem to doubt that the Duke would assault any of the Towns in the State of Millain they did not care to furnish even the Frontiers towards Piedmont though they abounded in Swissers nor did they fear to be assaulted on any other side Wherefore the Venetians approving as then of the Kings resolutions did nor at all seem to favour the Duke but rather persevering in their former distastes they appeared wholly averse to his ends and interests The Governour resolving to go with his Army to before Vercelles past his men over into Montferrat by a bridge built upon the River Sesia near to Villata and being come to Villa nova he went on the 7th of September with his Troops in good order towards Vercelles nine miles distant from Villa nova La Motta the first Town in Piedmont yielded forthwith unto him and afterwards Carenzana where distributing his Souldiers in those places he quartered that night But the Duke thinking diversion to be a better way of defence then opposition and having what Horse what Foot little less then 10000 in Vercelles of which 5000 French he resolved to march into the State of Millain Having therefore made a bridge of boats over the same Sesia which divides his Dominion from the State of Millain and chusing out 6000 foot and 1000 horse he went with them and with two field-pieces into the Territory of Novara From hence he sent 1500 foot and 3â—…0 horse Commanded by Calusio son to the Count of Verrua along the River towards the Bridge della Villata with order to burn it thereby to bereave the enemies Army of the Victuals and Ammunition which thereby were brought to them from the State of Millain He went with the rest streight towards Novara whither being come about Sun-rising he advanced with Count Guido and some horse and appeared upon an eminent Hill near the City There were not above 500 men in the Garrison yet the Novaresi betaking themselves presently to Arms fired a piece of Cannon upon them But the Duke though he saw the Novaresi astonisht at his coming and the City wholly unprovided of defence so as probably he might have hoped to take the Town he notwithstanding retreated and advanced no further were it either out of the respect which he still bore unto the King as he afterwards freely declared or as others would have it out of fear of being probably assaulted by the Spanish Army which coming upon him nighâ—… at â—…nd and finding him engaged in that enterprize with but a few Forces might easily have supprest him The Kings Commanders nay the whole Camp when they heard that the Duke was gone to Novara knew how rare an occasion this would bee Don Alfonso Pimentello General of the Cavalry and Don Iohn Vives the Kings Embassadour to the State of Genoa who was then in the Camp and Cavaliere Melzi an ancient Captain and very good at Counsel propounded That foording immediately over the Sesia by the advantage of their Cavalry or by their Waggons accommodated like to a Bridge and leaving a reasonable baggage with the Garrison in Carenzana or sending it into Montferrat they should go and cut off the Dukes way in his return for said they one of two things must needs happen that either the Duke being beleaguered in an Enemies Countrey and having no victuals must yield within twenty four hours or that fighting upon great disadvantage he must needs be a loser not without manifest danger to his own person for he would certainly be taken Prisoner by the Horse which were dispersed every where about the Country This Proposition being approved of by the whole Council would assuredly have been followed had not it been opposed by Prince Ascoli who alledging the depth of the water the danger of foording over the Rivers and the doubt lest the Duke falling upon them in their passage might much prejudice them turned the Governour from this resolution He added moreover That it was neither the Kings mind nor the intention of the war that the Duke should be suppress'd but only that he should be infested till such time as he should lay down Arms and prepare to obey the Kings other directions He therefore
Captains who were shot with a Cannon-bullet from the opposite banke where the Duke himself appeared in a red Coat incouraging his Souldiers giving fire to the Artilleâ—…y with his own hands The Commanders being returned made their relations according to their several opinions Mortara said the Army might be commodiously quartered there but Don Francisco Padiglia General of the Artillery Don Sanchio Salina and Barnabo Barbo Commissary-general who were sent to the same purpose by the Governour were of a contrary opinion And the Governour being sorry that he had come thither desired nothing more then a fair occasion to retreat which he was offer'd by the Nuntio and French Embassadour by proposal of new Capitulations conformable enough to the Kings decree and already accepted of and subscribed by the Duke But the Governour persisting still that there was no way left to execute the Kings decree unless the Duke did first ask the King pardon for the injury he had done after the decree all were scandalized at so proud a pretention and the French Embassadour told him freely that it was not an action fit for a free Prince to ask pardon nor was it ever demanded from the said Duke when not many years before a pacification was made between him and the King of France though unprovoked he had not only assaulted the Kings Territories but taken some of them and that the Capitulation was conformable to the King of Spains mind and such as the Governour ought not to refuse At this very time the Embassadour Vives being sent for by the Governour was return'd to the Camp who before he came from Genoa was present at a consultation had between Sancta Croce Don Piedro di Sieva Captain of the Sicilian Band Don Carlo Doria and the Camp-masters Don Diego Pimontello and Don Piedro Sarmiento The result whereof was that it was absolutely necessary for maintaining the dignity of the Crown and the authority of his Majesties Arms to quarter that Winter in Piedmont wherewith he acquainted the Governour who was already more inclined to depart then to tarry he perswaded him likewise by many Reasons to tarry there at least till such time as having made some notable resentment which might tend to the punishment of the Duke Peace might be concluded upon honourable terms And because the Duke seemed to be much perplexed lest as he professed by the exclusion of Peace some new breach might insue between the two Crowns Vives indeavoured to free him from any such suspicion shewing him that by new orders had from the Court by which without listning to any treaty of peace he was absolutely commanded to keep the War on foot the Governour had good occasion to excuse himself to the Embassadors and to delay the accepting of the Capitulations which were proposed till new orders might come from the King and that the mean while by continuing the War orderly and boldly some honourable action might be luckily light upon which might make way for the King to enter into a treaty of peace with honour and reputation And he added that otherwise the Duke must needs passe unpunished for the injuries done unto the King if the Governour should either immediately accept of the Articles of pâ—…ace or coming out of Piedmont without doing any thing might suffer those same Princes to apply themselves to the King for accepting of the same Capitulations For in such a case the King not being able to refuse them because they contain the three points propounded by his Majesty he should be constrained to agree with the Duke without taking that revenge or making that resentment which he intended to do Moreover he said it would be very dangerous that the Duke seeing him and his Army retreated might again assault the State of Millain and infest it with often inroads These and many other Reasons urged by Vives could not work upon the Governour who was desirous every day more then other to return to Millain Wherefore the business being propounded in Counsel after a long discussion two things were at last resolved upon the one not to accept the Capitulations of peace the other that they would go out of Piedmont For the first they alledged the precise orders from the King for the second the common custom of bringing their Camps to their Winter quarters in October and in May into the field And because the Governour had told the Nuntio and the Embassadour that it was necessary to send those Capitulations first into Spaine they desired a Truce in the interim for forty dayes which it was again disputed whether or no it stood with the reputation of the retreat to give way thereunto And it was concluded in the negative because it was contrary to the Kings orders therefore the Governour sent the Capitulations into Spain and having tacitely afforded a longer Truce then they had expresly refused to do he returned with his Army into the State of Millain after having staid only six days in the Dukes Dominions So this second entrance of the Spanish Army into Piedmont which was publickly protested to be made to chastise the Duke had no better success nor won no greater reputation then did the first Nay at the same time that the Governour stood consulting before Asti Prince Thomaso went by night out of Vercelles with a body of Foot and Horse and on the sudden assaulted Candia a Town belonging to the King and beating down the Gate with a Petard he put it to fire and sword and having staid there all night he returned safe the next morning to Vercelles receiving no offence from the Garrisou of Sandoval which was not far from thence An action which though the Duke protested to proceed without any order from him and before his son had notice of the Capitulation subscribed by him yet it was commonly thought that to revenge himself for this second assault and to free his State once more by diversion he had commanded his son to do it The Governour being returned he made the Duke be by publick Proclamation declared to have forfeited the Dom nion of the City and Country of Asti and of the like of Santia by his hostile acts committed against the State of Millain pretending that those Towns held in Fee of the said State and the Bills thereof were publish'd at the beat of Drum and fastned in some parts of that Country confining upon the State of Millain Against which Proclamation the Duke made another Edict be published wherein denying absolutely that he held those Towns in Fee from the Chamber of Millain and that therefore they could not be proceeded against by way of confiseation he contradicted the Proclamation terming it foolish and ridiculous and commanded his Subjects to keep their wonted loyalty and obedience to him He afterwards possest himself of some other Imperial Fee-towns in the Langhe and amongst those some that held of the Chamber of Millain the Governour not taking any notice theâ—…eof unless it were that fearing the Duke
further after the Duke who was gotten but ill-favour'dly with his men into Canelli tarried divers days in Allessandria waiting for Men Ammunition and Artillery which he had sent for from several parts of the State of Millain for the enterprize of Asti which he gave out he would take in hand The Duke when he had brought his men into Canelli sent them by degrees into Asti whether he also sent victuals and Ammunition for the defence of that City against which he saw the Governour bent all his Forces who parting from Allessandria about the fifth of May tarried six days in Felizzano and going from thence to Annone the last Town upon the Confines of Millain he went with his Army towards Asti He had with him between 16 and 18000 Italian Foot 4000 Spaniards about 2000 Horse the Gens d' Armes being therein comprehended to boot with 6000 other Foot and 500 Horse which he had left under Cavagliero Melzi in Sandoval not so much to guard that Fort as to keep Vercelles in jealousie so as the Duke being forced to keep it well Garrison'd was the less able to defend Asti He had also 7000 other Foot which he shortly expected from Tuscanye Urbine and Lucca by Sea and those of Parma were already come unto the Camp At his going from Annone towards Asti he divided his Foot into four equal Squadrons which being led on by four Troops of Dragoons the Cavalry divided into two Squadrons winged the left side towards the Tannaro the more inward whereof was led on by Don Alfonso Pimontello General thereof and the outward by his Lieutenant Don Sanchio Salina after these came the Gens d' Arms conducted by their General the Marquess of Este the Baggage came after the Squadrons and the Artillery part whereof was also plac'd on the left hand of the Squadrons The City of Asti stands in a plain at the foot of some hills upon the top whereof stands the Castle joyn'd to the City of an ancient shape as are also the rest of the Walls of the City which therefore have not those Flanks nor Rampiers which are used in modern Fortifications On the South side the Tannaro runs two Musket shot distant from the walls the little hills which run in a large compass towards the North bending from thence towards the East terminate in Annone from whence like a half Amphitheaer they encompass all that plain between the Rivolea Versa and the hills of Tannato for some four miles space and somewhat further between Annone and Asti. But the Duke not at all affrighted at the approach of so great an Army would though weaker in Forces face them and hating to keep inclosed within walls would march into the field against them He had with him about some 15000 Foot and 1500 Horse most of them Forreigners and chiefly French who were come thither notwithstanding their Kings severe Edicts to the contrary for the Princes of that Kingdom being desirous of new perturbations and ruptures between the two Kings and it may be that their King might be the Arbitrator of Peace and War in Italy sent many men thither thinking that look how many more of their Nation should be in the Dukes service both Peace and War should the more depend upon their Kings Being come neer Versa and having taken up his Quarters upon the inward bank of the River where was no commodious foording save in two places he sent Monsieur de Roason with 200 Lorrain Horse beyond the River that he might get into some houses belonging to an Inn called Corce Bianca the first bickering fell out here between these men and Alphonso Balesteros Comissary General of the Kings Horse who was sent before with 400 Dragoons to discover the enemy This Skirmish by the concourse of people on both sides grew almost to a Battel the Duke having sent his Van to relieve his men and the Governour some Troops of Curassiers with the Burgonian Forces led on by the Baton Batteville who was also followed by Alfonso Pimontello with his Horse Troop so as the fray increasing both sides fought valiantly in which fight it hapned that the Lorrainers who were on the Dukes side being cloathed and weaponed like to the Kings Burgonians did so mingle with the Burgonians as passing unknown thorow the midst of them they advanc'd even to within sight of the Spanish Camp The Governour advancing towards them bare headed thinking they were his men who fled began much to his danger to reprehend them and to bid them return and fight valiantly but they for fear of death in case they should be known seeming as if they would return to the Skirmish retreated dexterously to their own men leaving their Captain Prisoner together with Cavalier San Rainero and some others There died in this Skirmish an Ensign-Bearer of the Dukes with some others of both sides Balesteros was sorely wounded and Baron Batteville sleightly who together with his Burgonians behaved themselves gallantly both here and during this whole Campagnia and were of great aid to the Enterprise Don Pimentello's Horse fell over and over with him not without great danger of death The Skirmish being over for the Dukes men retreated to beyond the River the Governour advanced even to Versa and took up his Quarters there in the face of the Dukes Army but he sent Iovan Bravo with his Brigade and some pieces of Artillery to Quarter upon the little Hills for his own more safety and for the prejudice of the Enemy But the Duke having munited all the bank of Versa on his side with a long Trench which reached from the little Hills to the Tannaro sent also 2000 Foot to possess themselves of the Hill which was opposite to that where Bravo was Quartered and being mightily well sheltered on all sides and fortified nor being to be assaulted there without apparent danger to the Assailants they began to skirmish from the Hills and from the opposite Trenches with Muskets and Bumbards but more out of force and fury than out of any well taken advice or any great effect This Skirmish continued two or three days without any advantage on either side so as the Spaniards thinking it a shame that the Duke with so unequal Forces durst confront them and keep himself equal to their Army so long they resolved to advance by the Hillocks intending to fight him both on the back and flanks in his own Quarters and to beat up his Quarters The Enterprise was committed to the Prince of Ascoli who whilst he foreslowed the execution thereof meeting with some impediments he afforded the Duke who had notice of all proceedings leasure to possess himself of other stations fitter to hinder or at least to make the Enemies progress more difficult in that part And because it was necessary for the Prince to go by way of anticipation to the oppugning of Castiglione a little Castle scituated upon a little Hill which being of some consequence was furnished with a reasonable
glorious for the conquering Army which ought to have run with fervour to the ruine of the City which was full of men affrighted and confused through excessive fear and which was not likely to have held out long before so victorious an Army as was generally confess'd by all men did not only forbeâ—…r doing so but kept idle upon the Hills that they had won and as if they had been infatuated with stupidity busying themselves only in making Trenches and in fortifying their Quarters to defend themselves from the Enemy which they had beaten who after some days were passed began the Battery but so cold so leasurely so uncertain a one that the Bullets of the Artillery either did not hit at all or with very little damage though the Walls which they plaid upon were exceeding weak with age Wherefore the Duke who was also entred the Town in fear and astonishment and saw things in so desperate a condition by reason of his own Souldiers confusion prepared rather to abandon then to defend it taking courage at the so slow proceeding of the Enemy began to hope he might be able to defend it the which that he might do with the more honour and shew of valour he lodged his men between the Walls and the Trenches over against those of the Enemy and he did not only play upon the Enemies Camp from the Castle and from the Bulwarks and Platforms built without in convenient places but sallying often out of the Trenches with store of Musketeers even to the Enemies Banks and Works he molested them continually both by day and night and particularly on that part where as being most exposed to assaults Giovan Bravo and Lodovico Gamboloita stood to make defence who consequently underwent the burthen of all that enterprize The City was plentiful in Victuals and Ammunition which were daily brought to the Duke notwithstanding the 400 Horse which were sent to St. Damiano and the neerness of the same City afforded him convenience not only to quarter his men commodiously and under covert but also to refresh them for dividing his Souldiers between the Guards of the Walls and the Trenches and some succeeding other some in labour and in rest they recreated themselves and getting more strength by their rest and recreation they fell with more vigour to their labour again and made the longer resistance and though they were not over-well paid yet did they serve in that War with much affection and industry and were incouraged not so much by the Dukes presence and authority as by his civil comportment which won upâ—…n the Souldiers whom he accompanied in all their labours and dangers To this was added that he being naturally liberal to the Souldiers they knew he failed them not in their pay through avarice but impossibility so as every one esteeming the cause his own they laboured in the enterprize as for their own honour incited by their hatred to the Spaniards and by their desire of cancelling the fault which they had committed in the Battel and they fought the more fervently for that they saw the Enemies Army grow the less couragious Which not being only molested by continual labour as hath been said but afflicted with infinite wants and inconveniences and exposed to a thousand hardships in the Campagnia wasted and consumed miserably away as ice beaten on by the Sun for abounding in Victuals and in all other refreshments which was brought them from the States of Millain and Montferrat they grew unruly and ill-governed from whence infinite disorders did result they were quarter'd upon those barren Hills and without water the scarcity whereof was very great which they wanted not only for their refreshment and to keep them clean but even to drink for having none but what was brought on the backs of beasts from the Tanaro and Versa there was not sufficient for the Men and Horses to drink especially the neighbouring Cisterns of Certosa being immediately dried up by reason of the great concourse of people and a little rivulet which ran neer their Quarters through the small care they had of keeping cleansed from the immundities of the Army became so foul and loathsome as it was of no service So as the Souldiers were not only scorch'd up through heat but fell sick through sluttishness Moreover there being no habitations there 〈◊〉 save in the Covent of the Certosa the Souldiers for the most part lay without Tents or Shrouds naked upon the earth so as they were burnt by day by the Sun-beams which were at that time very hot and by night distempred by the blasting Evening-dew and cold Air. In many places you might have seen the Souldiers sitting on the ground under the shadow of a bough fixed in the earth thinking it a great refreshment to shelter their heads a little from the scorching heat of the Sun they took little care in burying the dead so as the air grew noisome through the stink of dead bodies sickness and other pollutions The Souldiers not being able therefore to bear with so much labour in War and inconveniences of body fell many of them daily sick who not being fitted with opportune remedy and the contagion still increasing the Camp within a few days became rather like an Hospital of sickmen then Military Quarters It behoved therefore to send for the Germans who were in the Garrison at Sandoval to supply the scarcity of people in the Camp wherein there were not enough able to supply the Guards and other usual Military Duties the rather for that the Governour having made a Trench to be digg'd towards the west by which way Victuals and Ammunion were brought into the City from Piedmont the Duke being aware of it caused another Trench to be made over against it wherewith he sheltered the way and on the head thereof made a Fort be built from whence the opposite Trench being furiously plaied upon by the Artillery the quarters about la Certosa were exposed to assaults it being therefore necessary for remedy to build another Fort opposite to it Thomaso Caracciola was deputed to have the custody theâ—…eof with his Brigade of Neapolitans and these not being sufficient for many of them diminished the Dutch who were come but a little before from Sandoval were sent thither The Governour continuing thus many days to oppose the Enemies Army which lay before the City and seeming neither willing nor resolute to assault it the Souldiers being oppress'd with so much labour and inconvenience could not be kept from murmuring not complaining so much of the effect as of the manner of the Governours suffering them who were willing to fight the Enemy to be so basely consumed by sufferings and that undergoing a thousand deaths hourly and running manifest ruine and destruction he would not suffer them to dye honourably by assaulting the City and the Dukes Quarters nor so much as send the Horse which lay there idle to divert the enemy from making defence or to pillage and over-run Piedmont
who argued by this their so great tenacity that they aimed more at being masters of what belonged to others then at the purging their Gulf of Pirates The war continued therefore in Friuli with greater forces and preparations but with but small progress made by the Venetians much succour came to the Archduke from Germany part at his own charges part at the Emperours and several valiant and well experienced Commanders were sent him from other Princes as Count d' Ampierre the Commandatore Coloredo the Baron of Lelile and Colonel Standardi amongst others there came 4000 Foot and 500 Horse all select men raised at the King of Spains cost and sent into Friuli under the command of Don Baldasser Marradas Don Inigo di Gâ—…evara Count d' Egnate and Embassadour for that King in the Emperours Court a very accuraâ—…e Lord and vigilant in publick affairs and to whom the King committed all the charge and provision of succour which he contributed to the Archdukes service General Trautmistorft not thinking it now any longer time only to make excursions but to keep the Field and face the Enemy past over Lisonso with his Army took up his quarters under Luciniso intending to fall upon the Venetians quarters whose valour he so little valued as he cared not to fortifie himself The Venetian Commanders had notice of the weakness of his Works and of the Enemies negligence in fortifying themselves and thinking it a fit occasion to prevent being offended they resolved to assault them unexpectedly by night The Venetians Camp was no less re-inforced then the Archdukes with Souldiers raised in Terra ferma Sclavonia Albania and Greece and having alter'd their Officers they had made a new form of Government in stead of Barbarico three Commissaries were sent to the Camp from Venice Antonio Priâ—…i Procurator of St Mark Iâ—…van Battista Foscarini and Francisco Erizzo the first had the title of Commissary-general the other of plain Commissariâ—…s These were the only three that voted and all things were resolved upon by the Votes of two the Council of War being therefore first called and consulted with wherein was Don Lâ—…igi dâ—… Esta General of the great Cavalry Francisco Martinâ—…go de Conti di Malpaga General of the Light-horse Ferrante de Rossi General of the Artiâ—…ery Pompeo Iustiniano Camp maste and Camillo Trivisano Commissary of the Albanesse Horse called Stradiâ—…tta these assisted the three Commissaries with their advice and gave their opinions but had no Votes the execution of what was resolved upon belong'd to Iustiniano as Camp-master which he ordered under the Commissary-General guided the Directions and directed the intended Enterprises The enemy being then to be assaulted within his Quarters according to the resolution already taken Iustiniano disposed of the Army into several Squadrons the first assault fell to Trivigiano's share with his Albanesse and to Horatio Baglioni with his Brigade and some Corsicans the former on the west-side where the Hills ended and the others on the south-side towards the Campagnia Trivigiano took some works far from the enemies Quarters kill'd the defendants and past no further but Baglione at the same time which was day-break forcing the first Port of the Rampiers and having seiz'd on the Court found a stiff dispute at the second for the Austrians awakened at the noise ran in to the defence and had not some Corsicks come to relieve him he had undoubtedly been slain as many of his men were A greâ—…t on-set was also made on the other side which though it appeared to be prosperous at first yet the assailants were forced to give back the same befalling them as did those that made the assault at the Raveline before Gradisca who fought more valiantly and received more harm from their friends who were upon their backs then from theâ—…r enemies who were before them for the former being timerous and fearful stood crouching and many of them lay grovelling on the ground who firing their Musquets low slew the best of their own men The Venetian being returned without having done any good effect to Mariano had no beâ—…ter success in the assault which they resolved afterwards to give to the Fort Stella built by the Austrians on the other side the River in form of a Cavalier against those of Sagra and Fogliano held by the Venetians for Pietro di Vasques a Spaniard who was Captain there fore-knowing the enemies resolution put his men quietly in a defensive posture and repulss'd them with the death of above a hundred of the assailants The loss which the enemy received was increased by a great mortality in the Venetian Camp which beginning with their horses came afterwards to their men for the stench of the dead horses being intollerable the air grew so infected as it begot dangerous diseases whereby the Camp was reduced to so small a number aâ—… if they had been then assaulted by the enemy it would assuredly have been totally defeated A danger whereat the Common wealths Commanders were much troubled the courage and gallantry of the enemy especially being considered and the little esteem which the Austrians made of their men But they were afterward somewhat inheaâ—…ed by the taking of two places situated on two several ways which lead from Germany and therefore of great consequence Ponteba and Chiavaretto Ponteba is cut through in the midst by the River Fella which falls into the Tagliamento the neâ—…her part theâ—…eof belongs to the Venetians and is called Ponteba Venetiana the other part to the Dutch and is called Austriaca The Souldiers which guard Austriaca passing over the River had taken Ponteba Venetiana which when the Camp heard 2000 Fooâ—… of the Country were preâ—…ently dipatch'd away thither under Commissary Fosclarini Francisco Martinengo led on by Count Nicolo Gualdo of Vicenza Governour of Udine by Captain Antonio Manzano and by Captain Daniele Antonini of the same City who when they had past the River drove the Dutch out of Austriaca and did not only recover the booty which they had taken but moreover took much Merchandize which they found in Austriaca and entring further in burnt Malborgeto and Trivese two neighbouring Towns nor had the other Commissary Erizzo less fortunate success who advancing towards Chiavaretto together with Trivigiano and his Stradiotti and a good strength of Foot led on by Iovanni Mâ—…rtinengo took it to the no little praise of Trivigiano to whom almost the whole honour thereof is due he being the first that came thither and the first that did manfully assault it The taking of Chiavaretto was succeeded by the like of Luciniso the Austrians having abandoned it who going to recover Chiavaretto repast over the Lisonzo which when the Venetians knew they marched immediately thither and possessing themselves easily of the Town which was but weakly guarded they in a short time made themselves masters of the Castle situated upon the top of a Hill where after three days stout resistance the defendants were forc'd to yield for want
fortified and leaving 4000 Dutch there in Garrison rather to free himself from the fear of their numerousness then out of any need of keeping it garrisoned the Governour went with his Camp to St. Germano where the Garrison having withstood the battery a while yielded on the third day and the Duke having burnt Bianza for that having dared to resist him one of his best Commanders was slain before it he went to Vinarie a place which stands on the way as you go from Trino to St. Germano from whence he hindred the Enemy from Victuals without abandoning Crescentino or bereaving himself of that refuge and hoping that his men would be constant in defending St. Germano he hoped to make the Governour rise from before it for famine wherefore to incourage the defendants and let them know that he was come he tarried there and fired his Cannon but all in vain for at the same time that he came to the Vinarie St Germano surrendred where at the Duke was so grâ—…eved as he put the Governour thereof to death because he had yielded the Town to the Enemy having promised to hold it out much longer And yet the Governour keeping three days in St. Germano had such scaâ—…scaâ—…city of Victuals as even his chief Commanders were fain to feed upon dead horse flesh for the Duke keeping his station kept the Enemy from Provision and the Governour who detested fighting resolved not to move from thence But at last inforc'd by famine or for shame to see himself as it were besieged he left Antonio Mastrillo Caracciolo's Serjeant-major in St. Germano with 500 Foot and marched towards the Duke Castelmerlino stands between Crescentino and le Vinarie a very little towards which the Army marched out of a double end that they might without disturbance receive Victuals there from Trino and to keep the Duke from Victuals who being excluded Crescentino by the loss of that place would be brought into the same streights whereinto he had a little before brought the Enemy and therefore moved by his disadvantage he marched to give battel to avoid the which when the Duke saw the Enemy coming he marched towards the Abby of Lucidio thinking to get beforehand into Crescentino but he could not march so fast but that the Spanish Van fell upon his Reer notwithstanding which skirmish the Duke march'd on till being overtaken by the night he was forced to lodge that night in the said Abby and the Governour in some small Cottages not far off where the Souldiers being famish'd for want of Victuals at St. Germano suffer'd also very much by cold that night The next day the Duke not being able to march so early as he intended by reason of some hindrances and not having with him above ten or twelve thousand Foot and about 1200 Horse he pursued his way in this manner the Artillery and Ammunition was placed in the Van the Baggage in the middle on the left hand where there was more field-room the Horse on the right hand where it was more wooddy the French Foot Regiments led on by Chricchy and Orfe the Reer led on by Count Guido was mixt of Italians Piedmontans and Savoiards and it had in it the best Souldiers and most experienced Commanders of the whole Army and the Country through which they march'd being full of bushes Count Guido placed Musketeers in some of them to the end that they might keep the Enemy from hindering them in their march if these Muskâ—…teers should be assaulted they were to retreat to othâ—…r bushes which were on their backs and thus to continue the fight that they might hold the Enemy play as long as possibly they might When the Governour knew what way the Duke marched he resolved to pursue him and sending part of his Cavalry before with 1800 Foot en Croupe to assault him on the Reer he himself followed after with the rest of the Army those who march'd before had much ado to drive the defendants out of the bushes yet overcoming them at the last they got up to the Reer for the Dukes Van being come to some narrow pâ—…ssages kept the rest of the Army from advancing so as he could not get to Crescentino without disturbance as he hoped to have done The Reer being assaulted made their part good against the Enemy and defending themselves honourably for a while did not only resist them with advantage but repulst them the Battaglions of the Spanish Army were this meâ—…n while advanced led on by Gironymo Pimontello and Gironymo Rho who though they saw that their men who were beaten back by the Dukes Reer could hardly keep the field yet having no precise order and the Governour being two miles behind they proceeded to fight buâ—… slowly when Don Alphonso Pimontello the Embassadour Vives and Cavalier Melzi coming in and not being able to indure that their men should be beaten for want of help they incouraged the Captains of the Battaglions to fall on without expecting any other orders assuring them that the Governour would approve thereoâ—… by whose words and authority being inheartned the Battaglions charged furiously and routed the Dukes Reer who not able to withstand so fierce a shock gave back and at the same time Count Sults not expecting any orders assaulted the French Regiments with his Dutch furiously on the Flank whose fear the Duke foreseeing he was come himself unto them earnestly exhorting them to stand fast to keep their ranks and incouraging them to fight but words prevailed not where valour was wanting Cricchi's Regiment made some resistance but Castiglions Regiment which was led on by Orfe not daring to look the Enemy in the face much less to stand the fierce and close assault of the Dutch threw away their Arms shamefully before they came to blows and ran and if instead of pursuing them the Dutch had fallen on upon the main body of the Battel the Dukes Army had not been only discomfited that day but wholly routed This success had the Battel of Lucedio which lasted for the space of five hours wherein there fell not above 100 of the Kings men and about as many were wounded Of the Dukes party there was above 400 slain and above 1000 sorely hurt amongst which 15 Captains and one French Collonel The Governours men took eleven Foot Colours and three Horse Ensignes and many of those who fled were miserably slain by the Country people of Montferrat So as though there were not many that dy'd by the Sword in the Conflict there were but few that kept with their Colours or who retreated with the Duke into Crescentino whither the Duke being gotten he was very diligent in assembling them together who were dispers'd abroad and had abandoned him Nor did his ill fortune cease here for the Marquess of Mortara entering the Langhe with 2000 Dutch with Cavalier Pecchios's Brigade and with the Alessandrian and Tortonesse Horse and Foot took Canelli Cortemiglia Calosso and other neighbouring places there being none to
which to begin the war which he intended against the Venetians he sent into the Gulf under the Command of Francisco Riviera native of Granada who from a private condition had by his own worth and by the Viceroys favour raised himself to no small greatness The Common-wealth forthwith armed out two Galliasses and seven Gallioons and gave the charge thereof to Lorenzo Veniero and to these they added 18 lesser Gallies which they were wont to keep to guard the Gulf and the Seas of the Levant They set Iusto Antonio Belegno Commissary over the Gulf to be chief over all these who whilst he was on his way towards Ragusa where he understood the Neapolitan Gallies were Riviera advanced with five of his Vessels within sight of the Islâ—…nd Liesena and drawing near the City began to play upon the Fort with some of his Cannon and upon some Houses which were not far from it and not seeing any one appear he retreated upon the coming on of night toward Calamotta and Sabioncella Towns of Ragusa where joining with the other Vessels he took a Ship which went from Ragusa to Venice He staid some days thereabouts and hearing that Bellegno was coming on with very advantageous forces he steered unpursued towards Puglia and came safe from thence to Brindisi It was the common opinion of all men that Bellegno might have fought him if he had pleased and that upon sleight pretences tarrying sometimes in one place sometimes in another he had delayed time and permitted him to return It is not known notwithstanding whether he did this of himself or by his limited instructions for though the Common-wealth seemed to be very much displeased with his proceedings and therefore removing him from that charge placed Veniero Captain of the Galleoons in his room who in Consultations had appeared to be more forward and couragious yet because they gave him other imployments and dignities not long after it was thought that this resentment was one of the Venetians wonted pieces of cunning who laying the weakness of their Commissions to the fault of their Officers do at the same time without hazzarding their own forces cover the publick diffidence and maintain the reputation of their Militia nor do their Officers hold themselves thereby insured who being contented with the tacite applause of the wisest Citizens and with the tacite praise which is given them for having discreetly carried on the publick fortune do so love their Country as they care not for having the fault laid upon them which otherwise would redound to the publick bad success being sure that when the wonder is over they shall be largely rewarded with other honours and dignities The Crabates growing bold upon the nearness of the Neapolâ—…an Galleoons and by the free commerce which was allowed them in the Kingdom of Naples flock from home in great numbers and scouring the Gulf with much terrour took much pillage and took many Vessels even upon the City shoars and afterwards carrying their prey into Puglia and L'Abruzzi sold them safely and whither they safely fled when chased by the Venetian Vessels In so much as the greater Traffick of Galleoons and the lesser commerce was in a short space brought to a bad condition in Venice Veniero being afterwards gone with two Galleasses and seven Galleoons to Brindisi he indeavoured to draw out Riviera who lay there with his Gallies to Battel who not having rowing Vessels and the wind being contrary to his coming out did not refuse Veniero's Challenge but put it off till a fitter time whereupon Veniero wâ—…nt to Corfâ—… and afterwards getting into the Gulf entered the Channel of Corsola and from thence to Liesina and being content with this generous offer appeared no more upon those shoars The Fleets afterwards increased for the Viceroy providing new Galleoons both in Naples and in Sicily and assembling the Kings Gallies together pâ—…epared others at his own cost that he might send them altogether to prejudice the Venetians and growing daily more angry and more incens'd he threatned to assault the very Town of Venice with his whole Fleet and adding all possible demonstrations to his speeches he gave out that he would go himself in person to Brindisi the more to encourage and hasten such preparations Wherefore the Common-wealth growing fearful armed more Galleoons and put more Gallies and Galleasses to Sea and ordered also that all the Gallies which sail upon those Seas and upon the Levant Seas should join in opposing the Spanish Fleet But the Common-wealth which abounded in Ships in Galleasses and in all other warlike preparations was in a great want both of men for their Oars and for fighting for those people and those parts who were formerly trained up in the Militia and therefore good at Sea affairs from whence the Venetian greatness had its rise and increase being now accustomed to Domestick imployments and not having seen an enemy for many years were grown imbased by idleness nor were they better provided of Commanders for the Gentry being given to such Arts as peace produceth had not of late years valued the Militia except what was Maritime The Commonwealth being therefore upon these terms and fearing the Viceroy's threats and preparations whose Fleet they knew did much exceed theirs both in stout Souldiers and experienced Commanders had much ado to provide for necessary defence wheâ—…ein they were to coin much money and to be at excessive expence Wherefore falling immediately to raise monies by many Taxes and Impositions and also assembling all the Tradesmen of the City who were pick'd out by lot according to publick Orders a certain number of them were commanded to serve either for themselves or for others in the Fleet. Thus having furnish'd a good many Rowers out of the dregs of the people and Clowns of the neighbouring Villages they furnish'd the Fleet also with many Troops of the Land-Militia who being found to be unfit for Land-Service little good could be expected from them in Sea affairs And because the Senate were afraid of Veniero the Governour of the Fleet 's animosity they left him his first charge over the Galleoons but made Iovan Iacomo Zane a grave and discreet person chief of all the maritime affairs with title of Commissary but with authority of Captain General who putting to Sea many days after with those Vessels which were in a readiness at Venice went to Liesina where the general rendezvouz was for all those Vessels which were to serve in that Fleet to the end that from thence as from the Centre of the Gulf he might discover what ways the Enemy steered and oppose them and their designs part whereof appeaâ—…ed upon that very Island before he got thither This part of the Viceroys Fleet was led on by Don Pietro di Leva under the Viceroys Ensigns consisting of 12 Galleoons and 23 Gallies and being come near the Haven he seâ—…t two of them to challenge the Venetian Fleet to fight which lay there under the command of the
not above six miles distant from the City The Governour who as hath been said was there sent Lodovico Guasco though he were not yet well cured of his wounds received before Vercelles with 200 Horse to discover the Enemy and if it were possible to withstand his violence as also to back the Countrey people who retreated into the City who coming near the Enemy had some sleight Skirmishes with them but being assaulted by a body of Horse he was forced to flye being charged to even underneath the Walls of the Town This put the City into much terrour and confusion seeing the Enemy advance so couragiously whilst many of Castellazzo Bosco and of all the parts thereabouts not thinking themselves safe in that City sent their Wives and Goods into the Towns of Genoa And the Alessandrians putting themselves in arms stood to defend the Walls hourly looking to be assaulted by the Enemy and truly there not being in that City above 6000 Foot and some Horse Companies there being also but little victuals thereâ—…n nor in the parts thereabouts and the honour of the Spanish Forceâ—… lessening through ill Government as also the peoples inclination to them who were weary of so troublesome a War the State of Millain was much endangered All the Forces of Montferrat were therefore sent for to defend that City and were quartered thereabouts Wherefore Giovan Ieronimo Doria their Commander having immediately given order that they should all meet in Cuccaro except those who were to guard the Towns of Montferrat march'd out himself with 2500 Foot and 400 Horse and not tarrying for others who were coming to him resolved to put himself into Alessandria But the Duke and the Marshal having notice thereof endeavoured to meet him upon the way and to fall upon him with all their Forces and defeat him As they were in pursuit of him they understood he was past on so leaving their Foot behind them they advanced with their Horse and about evening got up unto him Doria was not affrighted when he saw himself assaulted at a distance nor lost he either courage or counsel but fortifying himself upon a plain neer a little hill which was fenced on the front by a great ditch and by some lesser ditches on the sides he placed the Foot there and left the Horse without that they might first receive the encounter which if they could not sustain that then they might withdraw themselves into the plain The Horse resisted gallantly but not being able to hold out against so great a number they retreated in good order to the Foot whereinto whilest the Duke and Marshal endeavoured to penetrate they were so fiercely saluted by volleys of Musket-shot which were so opportunely discharged as though wheeling about on all sides they strove to break in upon them they could never do it but after the death of many of the assailants and the imprisonment of some amongst which Monsieur di St Andres de Vius a Gentleman of Provence was one the night coming on already apace they retreated and Doria came the same night to â—…u and from thence by the way of St Salvadore to Allessandria where he was received by the Governour with much honour and applause The Governour was then by reason of the diversity of his Officers opinions very much confused and unresolved what to do some would have him go out with those men which he already had and with others who were coming and to encounter the Enemy in the field others that he should keep within the Walls and defend the City Doria was for his keeping in the City telling him that the French could not keep the field long nor do any thing against any of the chief Towns for that they were well munited and that the Enemy not being able to keep together long for want of moneys would quickly moulder away and being reduced to a smaller number would be assaulted upon better advantage and overcome with less danger and because they feared Valenza upon the Poe it not being very well Garrisonn'd Doria took upon him the defence thereof and entred thereinto with about a thousand Horse The Duke despairing to do any good upon the City whereinto many men were entred and did still enter set fire on Felizzano and the places thereabouts and went against Annone a strong place and which was guarded with about 2000 Foot but ill provided of powder or ammunition Those within came out against him but were soon made to retreat back into the Town by Termes The Cannon being afterwards mounted they came to battery and from thence to assault which being luckily made on three sides the defendants not being able to resist long for want of Ammunition retreated tumultuously into the Castle which not being better provided of Ammunition than was the Town and much 〈◊〉 with victuals for so great a multitude and being little and incapable of so many men whereas with a proportionable Garrison it might have defended it self it became undefendible through the multitude of defendants and was forced to treat of surrender the sooner as not having wherewith to feed so many people it was therefore agreed That they should march forth with their Arms and that they should be convoyed to the Kings Territories which Agreement being afterwards too sophistically interpreted by the Duke they were sent to the County of Burgony which was then under the King of Spain that they might serve no more in this present War they then went speedily by the Bridge which was cast over the Tannaro to Arazzo which was immediately abandoned by the Garrison consisting of 1500 Foot who seeing the Bridge thrown over and the Dukes men march over it retired into Alessandria but being pursued by Termes and Monsieur della Bâ—…rsce they were assaulted on the Rere where were 300 Swissers who after no long dispute basely yielded their lives but not their Arms being saved in which in erim the rest of the Garrison who march'd on without ever turning back upon the Enemy or succouring their companions had time to get safe into Alessandria wherefore the Governour who was ill counselled and whose Forces were but weak not thinking it safe to march out into the fields and to expose his men whereon the defence of the State of Millain did wholly and solely depend to the uncertainty of Battle stood looking on whilst his Country was burnt and destroyed his Garrisons slain and his Towns taken by that Enemy whom though once superiour to him in Forces he could not overcome because he knew not how to use the Victory But perhaps the Dukes destiny is to be raised up when he is at the lowest and to be opprest when he is at the greatest height to the end that never keeping in the same condition he should be a singular example to the world both of good and bad fortune The Governour complained and protested under his hand to Cardinal Lodovisio that he was assaulted by the Duke and by the French with the
purchase without any disturbance The Spanish Agents who were to manage this matrimony and the reconciling of the Duke of Savoy were desirous to please him and that the Commonwealths delay should be granted him lest the purchase of that little Castle might not only be a hindrance to that which was in Treaty but might occasion new rumours and noise of wars in Italy to the prejudice of the publick peace wherefore means being used with the Commonwealth to forbear they also under hand delaied the assignation of Zuccharello some Propositions of accommodation were with the privity of the Cardinal of Savoy offer'd to the Embassadors who were then in the Court of Rome to pay their wonted obedience to the new Pope by which the controverted Fee should be delivered to neâ—…ther of the parties but should be invested in some third person who might be a friend to the other two insinuating Don Carlo Barbarino the Popes Brother but all was in vain for the Commonwealth fearing that the Dukes power would at last prevail over what was right and fearing that they might prejudice the King of Spains reputation if they should put over the business to the Arbitrement of any other Princes or else thinking that to yield to any thing would seem that they were afraid of the Dukes threats persevered constantly not to put that to the Arbitrement of another which was undoubtedly theirs and which they had lawfully purchas'd from the Imperial Chamber so as being resolved to keep it just as they had bought it of the Emperour they complain'd of the delay made by the Governour of Millain but at last all difficulties being oveâ—…come and the Commonwealth being possess'd of the Fee the Duke was necessitated to think of resentment whereâ—…n he found himself much ingaged both by the Letter which he had written and by the Commonwealths refusal the way for his resentment was made more free by Prince Phileberto's death which hapned at this time in Palermo that City being visited with a sore Contagion which did not only put an end to the Treaty of Marriage but cut off all hope of ever piecing it up again for though he left two brothers unmarried yet since the same parts nor circumstances did not concur in them it was impossible to continue it neither of them being acceptable at the Spanish Court they having openly declared themselves for the French party and moreover the Cardinal had appeared openly an enemy to the Duke of Mantua almost upon all occasions A petty accident did also more irritate the Duke which had he not considered too much and published it to be one of the chief incitements to the war would not deserve the reciâ—…al some little boys of the meanest sort of the Genoese Plebeians seeing the Souldiers rendezvouz which were daily made in the City they also put on counterfeit and childish Arms and ran up and down the City meeting and exercising their Arms it hapned tâ—…at at a certain encounter the one side took the Captain of the other side Prisoner who was to represent the person of the Duke of Savoy and led him about as in Triumph which action though the Senate did not leave unpunished yet being given out to be greater then it was it came to the Dukes ears who peradventure desirous to have better justifications for whâ—…t he should do then his buying of Zuccharello made process like wise be made himself but more according to what was reported than to what was true it being said that the Dukes Image was cast into the fire and burnt and sending this Process formed by himself into the Courts of Rome and of other Princes he complained very much theâ—…eof as of an action done by the privity of some Gentlemen of Genoa in scorn and contempt of his person There were besides this some ancient rancours remaining between the Common-wealth and Duke touching a controversie about their Confines and some Castles which they had been long at Law for but more of late for favours privately administred to the Duke of Mantua in the War of Montferrat and afterwards more openly to the King of Spain in the taking in of Oneglia and Marâ—… which hatreds and heart burnings the longeâ—… they were concealed broke forth afterwards into the greater flame when the way was made open for them The French therefore and the other Confederates made use of this occasion to keep the Duke constant to the League to which purpose a Diet was held in â—…sa a Town in Piedmont at the foot of the Alps which divide Piedmont froâ—… Dolpheny wherein met the Duke of Savoy Deguieres who was a little before made Lord High-Constable of France the Marquess of Criccâ—…e Claudio Marini French Embassadour with the Duke the Venetian Embassadour and some other Embassadours of the Confederate Princes Here the Duke of Savoy after having made grievous complaints against the Genoeses for injuries which he pretended to have received from them proposed it as the better and more secure course to turn their Common Arms against the State of Genoa before they should fall upon the State of Millain as was agreed on at the League of Avignon He said the victory would be the more easie and certain by reason of the weakness of the chief City and of the other Towns in that State by reason that that Common-wealth was totally unprovided of forreign Forces and that she could make but little use of her Natives they being imbased by long peace that he himself had many friends and many that would side with him in that City and in that State who being desirous of innovations would be a great help to the Enterprise He represented that when that Common wealth should be subdued the Contract would be at an end whence many inconveniences would result to the Crown of Spain and in particular that the Siege of Breda which was under the eyes of all the Confederates upon the fail of moneys would undoubtedly be raised but he chiefly endeavoured to inform them that when the Valtoline should be taken which was to be assaulted in the first place by their common Arms though thereby the State of Millain would be kept from relieâ—…e by Germany yet the way by Sea being open it might be succoured from Spain Naples and Sicily whereas when Genoa should be taken and the River thereof the State of Millain being block'd up on all sides and debarred succour would become an easie and secure prey to their common Forces These reasons of the Dukes being the more efficacious because the rest saw that unless they would give way thereunto he would not joyn with them in their League they did not only approve of his opinion but contrary to what was agreed upon at Avignon they promised to joyn their Forces with his to the suppressing of Genoa and that the Fleet of Marselles and of England which were destin'd to go against Spain should assist the enterprise of Genoa not only with Arms but with abundance of
Duke of Pastrana who press'd very much for it The first thing that was consulted of in Genoa was touching the whole matter of defence they all joyn'd in opinion That being now only to minde defence their first care should be to defend the City the Head of the State and to â—…efend Savona a principal Member thereof and hold them play till either the Enemies Army should grow less which was said to moulder daily away or till â—…he Duke of Feria might assault them in the Field and drive them out of the Common-wealths Territories Seeing therefore that the loss of la Riviera as long as Genoa and Savona should be preserved did not at all concern the main business they took not much care to defend it that they might not disfurnish the City of a Garrison in a time of such danger nor hazzard her 〈◊〉 never so little to be insulted over by the Enemies Army which being so neer when they should see those who were come in to her succour imployed in defending la Riviera might approach her Walls and attempt an assault howsoever what should be lost would be easily recover'd if Genoa and Savona should be kept by reason of the situation of la Riviera which being naturally open and undefensible is soon taken by any that will endeavour it and when the danger of the neighbouring Army should be over it would be more easily recovered by the Commonwealth then by any others as well by reason of the peoples inclination who by reason of the interests they have in the City and by their continual necessity of providing things necessary from thence would desire to return to their ancient obedience as also that the Commonwealth being master at Sea it would be very hard for any who should hold the Town to defend it against a Fleet at Sea and yet though so many succours come suddenly were sufficient to secure the present condition of affairs yet were they not sufficient to free the Commonwealth wholly from the imminent danger of the neighbouring Army and much less to free the Genoese from fear who were troubled at the successful proceedings of the Enemy in Rossiglione Ottaggio Gavio and la Riviera del povente and being still full of anxiety could not be at quiet whilst they were still subject to be molested by the Enemies Amry and it being requisite to expect the total freedom of the Staâ—…e of Millain though it were hindred by many impediments the Genoeses were still fearful and full of troubles for together with the want of people which the State was in the Dutch not being yet arrived the defence of la Riva which was a great curb to the French and Venetians not being to be abandoned kept the Governour from thinking of relieving Genoa Count Iovanni Serbellone was there as hath been said well fortified on all sides and to keep the Enemy the further off he had extended his Fortifications on the left side by which you come from the Valtoline even to the Town of Campo a Town upon the River of the Lake wherewith he incompassed that Town and la Nova which did almost joyn upon la Riva The Count being past over as hath been said to the other side into the Valtoline with the greatest part of his men was very intent upon fâ—…eeing himself of that hinderance which cross'd his designs and proceedings being therefore resolved to attempt the Town of Campo first to keep it from being defended he made la Riva be assaulted on the opposite side by those who he had left in Chiavenna as he returned into the Valtoline to the end that when he should assault Campo with his whole body he might the more easily take it he mist of his intent though his design succeeded for those few defendants who remained to defend Campo when la Riva was assaulted on Chiavenna's side did so stoutly maintain the defence as they got time to be succour'd for Count Iovanni leaving Chiavenna well defended came himself in person with many men to Campo where the Siege was more fierce so as the defendants increasing in number courage and valour a strong conflict was begun which being often re-inforced by the French Coure perceiving that his enterprise succeeded not so easily here as in the Valtoline against the Forts which were guarded by the Ecclesiasticks and remembring that he had left 400 of his men before that assault and that many others were wounded he withdrew into his Quarters â—…aving done but little harm to the defendants whereof hardly 20 were slain though they were plaied upon by the French Artillery placed in fitting places After this Count Iovanni found that Campo as being too far from la Riva was dangerously defended wherefore resolving to give it over he made his Fortifications more inwards towards the Town of Nova and the French who could not take that Town by force seeing it abandoned went immediately thither took it without any difficulty and fortified it and not satisfied with this they would advance to the top of the little Hill that they might go by that way to Chiavenna and fight the Garrison that was there but they failed of their intent by the gallant resistance which the defendants made who opposing all their Forces had always the better of them wherefore Coure who desired still to joyn with those that were at Chiavenna and to make them come unto him was forc'd to make them pass over hither and come to Campo by a further way about and over craggy Mountains in which passage the French having possess'd themselves of the tops of the higher Mountains which over looked the little Hill of Riva they threw down great stones into the Valley which lay under the little Hill wherewith they did much annoy the Rampiers and the Defendants who would not have been able to defend that so important station long had not Count Giovan sent a good many Souldiers to the tops of those Mountains to drive them from thence and herein he succeeded happily for the French being unexpectedly assaulted threw away their Arms and begg'd their lives but their prayers prevailed not for being made prisoners and tied back to back with ropes they were tumbled down the same precipices which was a most horrible spectacle Coure for all these unfortunate accidents would not give over the Enterprise but fell from assaults to Siege those of la Riva received Victuals and Succours by two several passages the one by the Lake the other by Land by the Lake by Boats which past from the lower Lake into the lesser one and by Land by Conducts which were brought to the Territories confining upon Chiavenna by the three Chappels of ease which lead to Riva Coure possess'd himself of these ways and placing part of the Garrison of Chiavenna to defend them he block'd up that passage and having the coming of Victuals by Land he endeavoured to do the like by water he by the help of experienced Artificers and Mariners brought from the
Millain refused to go into the Field till they had received their Pay Croce's diversion whereupon they did chiefly relie proved also vain he was to have entred Piedmont with those Forces which were in Savona and with Manfrino his five Horse by the way of Savona such an expedition at that time and by that way would have produced three very good effects First entring the enemies Country which did abound in Victuals wanting Forts and Ammuniiion and which was bereâ—…t of all defence he might have easily possess'd himself of it without any gainsaying by this diversion if made in a seasonable time have very much helped the business of Verrua and lastly the River of Genoa being by the interposition of this Army cut off from Piedmont and consequently deprived of all hopes of succour it would at the very appearance of the Gallies have been abandoned by the Garrisons of Piedmont so as of it self it would have faln to the Commonwealth Croce's genius who was better vers'd in maritine affairs then in band service and loved not to go far from the shore opposed this resolution which certainly would have been the most commodious and best for the common cause it was opposed also by that which serves always for an excuse to any Commander for either not beginning or not prosecuting an enterprise the scarcity of provisions wherefore being resolved that the recovery of Riviera should precede his entrance into Piedmont it was conceived that private emulation between him and the Duke of Feria bore greater sway with him then any respect of the common Cause wherefore not caring for the good success of the enterprise of Verrua he was not displeased that his rival might reap but little honour thereby parting therefore about the midst of Iuly from Savona accompanied by two Senators Iovan Battista Saluzzo and Agostine Centurione who were chosen Commissaries by the Commonwealth at whose expence and in whose name the whole business was carried on and carrying with him 8000 Foot and two Troops of Horse they betook themselves to the recovery of la Riviera the first in order was the City of Albenga which being first assaulted came first into the power of the Common-wealth though it were recruited but some days before both with Men and Victuals by the Gallies of Marcelles the battery began from the Gallies which by their Cannon beat down the Houses for the City stood within Musket-shot of the Sea-shore but that battery doing but little harm the people were that mean while landed and two great Cannons which being level'd against the Gate and Wall which weâ—…e towards the Sea after having plai'd upon them a while the defendants began to apprehend the assault which they saw was preparing to be given so as beginning to parley they yielded within a few hours upon Articles that the Captains should march out with Arms and Baggage and the Souldiers with their Swords as also they were not to serve for that Summer against the King of Spain nor the Commonwealth Albenga being taken all the Towns till you come to Porto Mauritio Oneglia being therein comprehended most of them being without Walls and abandoned by the Dukes men return'd under the obedience of the Commonwealth from hence they went to Porto Mauritio a place strongly situated munited with Artillery having a good Garrison in it and abundantly provided of Ammunition it stands upon a great Rock which being for the greatest part invironed by the Sea is as it were a Peninsula their Men and Artillery being landed they had no little labour to draw them up those craggy cliffs for many necessary things were wanting for the train of Artillery and the weather was then very hot Thomaso Raggio Iovan Battista Adorno and Iacomo Moniglia three of those Gentlemen who had raised and maintained seven Companies at their own expence and had continually served the Commonwealth with them very affectionately had the care thereof given them who not only by their Authority but by their example brought them in a short time to fitting places they raised three Batteries two on the Flank and one behind and the Defendants ordered their defences very fittingly against these Batteries by two days continual battery a breach was made fitting for an assault and the three forenamed Gentlemen were ready with their Companies to give an assault when the Defendants who had inriched themselves by booty taken at Ottaggio and Pieve being loth to adventure what they had gotten parlied and on the third day surrendred the place upon the same terms that Albenga had done but the Kings Souldiers missing the prey which they thought they should have had if they had taken the Town by assault turn'd upon many of the neighbouring Towns plundering and sacking them to the great grief of the Commissaries who could not bear with so great mischief done to the Subjects of the Commonwealth or with such an affront to themselves and finding that the Kings Captains took no care to prevent such an inconvenience Thomaso Raggio a man of a great spirit who upon all occasions had shew'd much zeal towards the affairs of the Commonwealth offer'd to remedy this inconvenience by force of Arms which offer being accepted of he was sent with many Companies of Souldiers to suppress this prejudice done unto the Country by the Kings Souldiers who hearing of his coming joyn'd together in a body and yet he had the good luck to make them soon retreat and imbarquing themselves in the Gallies with San Croce they went some of them to Savona some to Genoa for San Croce by reason of the excessive â—…eat and of the sickness amongst the Souldiers would not continue the enterprise which he might easily have prosper'd in for after the surrender of Porto Mauritio all the Towns as far as Ventimiglia being abandoned by the Dukes Garrisons return'd to the antiâ—…nt command of the Genoeses so as when he should quickly and happily have dispatched this business he might have facilitated the taking of Verrua by diversion but that so much time might not be sâ—…ent in vain the Commonwealth gave order that Pigna a great Town belonging to the Duke lying above Ventimiglia should be gone against where they understood that many of those who were gone out of Albenga and the rest of the Towns which were recovered were got together and it was feared that contrary to the Articles of surrender they might be a great disturbance to the Enterprise of Ventimiglia which upon the ceasing of the excessive heats and the amendment of the Souldiers was preparing for This business was committed to the Baron Batteville who coming thither with about 3000 Foot and having long batter'd the Trenches which joined to the houses and served for a wall or Rampier at last the defendants fearing an assault yielded upon Articles which being agreed upon and perform'd they delivered up the Town to Batteville in the delivery whereof the Ammunition fell on fire which occasioned much mischief to many amongst the rest to Iovan
lessen the glory of what is gotten prefer'd the increase of reputation before the advantage of retention whereunto they were perswaded by their no want of Artillery nor Gallies and chiefly because the Duke had shewed the like respect to them in the Artillery which were taken in Riviera greater difficulties remained about the principal point of Zuccharello the Duke requiring that it should be restored to him as a thing bought by him before or else that he might be recompensed with as much Land elsewhere and the Commonwealth refusing both these the difficulty was reduced to be decided by moneys wherein the Mediators at last agreeing they disagreed in the sum The Duke did not only demand what he had disbursed but the interest which amounted to too immoderate a sum wherefore and because the French demanded reparation should be made to Claudio Marini for the prejudice he had suffer'd in having his house pul'd own whereunto the Commonwealth not consenting the French Embassadour departed speedily for France and left the business undecided but whilst the business concerning peace was thus negotiated in Spain affairs did not pass with that quietness and safety in the River of Genoa as was hoped for by Castagneda's Negotiation Mark Antonie Brancacchio Camp-master and Governour for the Commonwealth in Ormea went by leave from his Uncle the General with 600 paid Foot and as many of the Militia to surprise and sack Briga a great Town not far off belonging to the Duke of Ormea being come to a Bridge neer the Town which contrary to his opinion he found well munited he met with stout resistance which spun out the business to such a length as though the Genoese had possess'd themselves of the Bridge and of some neighbouring Houses yet some Souldiers coming from Tenda to defend it they worsted the Assailants and slew a hundred of them so as the rest were forced to sit down by their loss and to retreat to Ormea from whence they were come the Duke pretending that this was done in time of Truce exclaimed much against it without whose knowledge this dissaster had hapned and being desirous to know how it came to pass found that Mark Antonio by License from his Uncle General Brancaccio before he had received Orders from the Senate to abstain from doing any offence had done this the General having forgotten to recall his License a frivolous excuse and which would not have kept the Fact unpunished had not the Dukes Captains violated the suspension of keeping from doing any injury made by Castagneda a little before for one of the Dukes Gallies going from Villa Franca had given chase to a Barque of Genoa and had taken it neer Albenga and brought it to Villa Franca the Masters of the Merchandize nor of the Barque never having received any satisfaction but the Duke impatient of affront watched for revenge and having had private intelligence with the Captains of the Garrison in Zuccharello he sent 600 Horse with Musketeers encroupe to Garessi a Town neer Zuccharello with intention that being let in by the Conspirators in the evening privately by the Conspirators and killing as many of the Garrison as should resist them they should make themselves masters of the Town which being done they should go that very night being guided by one that was of the Plot to Albenga about six miles off where General Brancaccio relying upon the Garrisons of Pieve and Zuccharello did carelesly reside and as if he were to acquaint him with somewhat of great importance whilst he could not have advertisment of what had hapned at Zuccharello he should beat down the Gate of the City and let in his companions who should not be far off take the General prisoner make himself master of the City and make way for the taking of Pieve and of all the Towns till you come to Porto Mauritio which Towns were not likely to make any long resistance when Albenga should be taken The design had prospered had not the Conspiracy which was very neer being effected come to light but it being suppress'd and the Author and Complices thereof imprisoned they according to Military custom were made to pass the Pikes and the Garrisons being changed and the places of greatest importance re-inforced the Dukes men were forc'd to give over the enterprise and to retreat The peace of the Commonwealth was likewise disturb'd by the Duke of Guise his sudden coming from Marcelles with seven Galleoons amongst which was l' Almirante a Vessel of great burthen and very well munited with Artillery the end thereof was never known for Guise meeting with a tempest whilst he was under sail neer Corsica he was driven by the violence of the wind to within sight of Genoa The Commonwealth sent speedy Orders and Advertisment to Corsica where it was thought the blow was aimed and presently Rigging out 12 Gallies part her own part the King of Spains and furnishing them with excellent Souldiers and with all warlike preparations they put to Sea two days afterwards conducted by Don Carlo d' Oria who upon this occasion was chosen General of the Fleet but it being presently known that Guise being forced by tempest was got to Ligorne where he staid to make some repairs for what he had suffered by the violence of the Seas Don Carlo made thitherward and came to Anchor at Marzocco a safe Habour within two miles of Ligorne after two days Guise put to Sea again and made strait for Marcelles being still pursued by Doria within Cannon-shot till going out of the Ligustick Sea he came into that of Provence and so retreated to Marcelles Many men thought that he had only made this shew of coming out wherein nothing of hostility past except the making some shot to no purpose afar off at the Gallies which pursued him to satisfie the Duke of Savoy for the moneys he had received from him The year 1626 pass'd over with these petty accidents about the end whereof Ferdinando Duke of Mantua died who having no Sons was succeeded by his Brother Vincenzo the third Son to Vincenzo the only issue that was left of the Line of his Grand-father William and of his Brothers The year 1627 insued a year which proved very calamitous to many private Gentlemen of Genoa in their fortunes for those that did Traffick with the Court of Spain having about ten millions of moneys owing them which they were appointed to have received out of the moneys which were to come in the Plate-Fleets the King alter'd their payment giving them satisfaction in lieu thereof in juri with irreparable prejudice and loss of the Contract for these particular Genoese owing great sums of money to other men since they were not paid in ready money by the King could not satisfie others but with the same juri or with much delay of time when selling those juri they might pay them in ready money The Conde Duca was the chief cause of this great grievance to the Genoese whereby
to receive so great a storm he notwithstanding offered since the King of France could not assist him several Proposals of accommodation to the Duke of Savoy and to the King of Spain desiring the King that he would receive him into the accustomed protection of his Crown as he had done his Predecessors and professing to be willing to depend in all things upon his Authority Moreover to the end that he might not appear contumacious to Cesar's Decree and to the end that the Citadel of Cassalle might not keep the Spaniards in perpetual jealousie he of himself offered to receive Dutch Garrisons which should depend upon his Cesarean Mâ—…jesty and to set up the Imperial Ensigns into all the Towns of his Dominions except the City of Mantua which was not as he said a Magazine of Arms and Cassalle where in lieu of receiving in a Garrison he offered to beat down the Walls and Bulwarks which divide the Citadel from the City to the end that being both joyn'd in one Body they might be the more easily taken which Proposals not being accepted they did not at all retard the going on of the Enterprise nor were they sufficient to keep off the Process and Citations of the Imperial Bands or Edict which were intimated unto him and threatned by the Cesarian Commissary who was at this time come into Italy The Marquess of Canossa was Governour of Montferrat and the Marquess di Rivara was Governour of the Citadel the latter a Montferrian the other a Veronese but the Chancellor Guiscardi's authority was Superintendent in the conduct of publick Affairs one who was very well vers'd in the Affairs of the world quick witted very vigilant and careful of the new Prince his interest and partial to France These providing all things necessary for the defence of these and all other places of Montferrat did attentively observe the proceedings of the Governour of Montferrat and of the Duke who growing daily more fervent in the business prepared for offending Nevers did the like in Mantua and the Governour nor other Spanish Agents not having been any ways diligent after Vincenzo's death in keeping either Subjects or Forreigners from entring to desend that City many Souldiers came by threeves into Mantua through the Valtoline through the Venetians Towns and those of the Genoese and many French who were cashiered after the Duke of Savoy's reconciliation and declaration were got into Cassalle so as before the war began the new Duke had got about 6000 Foot and 1000 Horse into Mantua part of the same Nation part Forreigners and of those most French and in Cassalle there were about 4000 Foot and 400 Horse all of them Montferrians unless it were 500 French who being cashieâ—…ed by the Duke of Savoy had listed themselves under Monsieur di Guron There came thither also after the Enemy was incamp'd before it the Marquess of Beveron in disguise who was come from France to serve in that war that he might be re-admitted from banishment which he had a little before incur'd for fighting a Duel A gallant Gentleman and well vers'd in arms these two Towns being strong and abundantly furnish'd with Garrisons it was probable that both the Sieges might prove long and difficult and that therefore the oppugners who were but few in number might not come off with honour from that Enterprise as being either weary or wasted by time by warlike actions by sufferings and hardships or forced by French succour or by some other strange unthought-of accident Besides Cassalle two other Forts were to be expugned Nizza and Montcalvo and two Towns Ponzone and Pontestura The taking whereof they being reasonably well munited would require length of time and more men on the contrary many things made against the Duke of Savoy and against the Governour whose eyes were chiefly fix'd upon Cassale scarcity of men theâ—…e not being then in the State of Millain above 2000 Horse and 12000 Foot 2000 whereof were to be kept in Como for the necessary defence of the passes towards the Swissers and Grisons 4000 others and 800 Horse were of necessity to be kept in the Quarters of Cremona upon the Mantuan Confines against the new Duke whose numbers being increased threatned many things so there were no more then 6000 Foot and 1500 Horse to march into the Fields True it is that a Truce for six moneths being agreed upon be ween the Commonwealth of Genoa and the Duke of Savoy he obtained 5000 Foot from the Commonwealth wherewith having sufficiently garrison'd the Towns della Riviera he seemed to have no want of men during the Truce some men but not many were likewise expected from Naples Sicily and Sardigna to the want of men were likewise added the want of Victuals by reason of the great barrenness of that years Harvest and the want of ready moneys by reason of the suspension of payment made the King as hath been said and these were necessarily accompanied with the want of credit amongst the trading Genoeses and of the Court it self so as the chief sinews of war being wanting it was impossible to raise more men or to make much provision for the Enterprise It being impossible to sit down upon so many disadvantages and upon so ill grounds before Casalle a place strong of it self but much stronger by the Citâ—…del very capacious and of a large situation flank'd by six Bulwarks begirt by large and deep Ditches and which being wholly planted and fortified by all the rules of modern Fortification was deservedly thought and commonly held to be a royal Fort and the strongest that was in all Italy except Palma in Friuli it would have been more wisely done to have defer'd the Siege till a more fitting time and though the desire and haste of this new acquisition did exceed all other considerations it had been more to the purpose to have taken first some of the Towns about it and putting 500 Foot and 200 Horse into each of them and to have cleared the ways with them to the end that neither Victuals Men nor Munition might have been brought thereinto and whilst they should have thus besieged it at a distance to have gone with the rest of their men to before Nizza and from thence to Montcalvo and Ponzone and having reduced the weaker Towns to have gone then with all their Forces to besiege Casalle and streightening the Siege to bring it to a necessity of either surrendring it self or of being stormed But this being a business of length and the Governour being desirous according to his promise made to the Court of Spain to end the business in a short time he prefer'd the taking of the place before any other resolve being thereto invited not so much by the small quantity of Munition which as they say he was made believe was in it and by the intelligence which he had therein as building his belief upon the small experience and resolution which he thought to be in the defendants who were for
of his Army here the conflict was somewhat greater but such was the continual confluence of French who continually came in as the defendants not being able to resist their fury were forced to give back and to retreat towards Auvigliana nine miles towards Turin leaving Susa in the Kings possession which being taken was by the Kings express command preserved from sacking and from all other violence many of both sides died in this conflict nine Colours of Bellone's Brigade were taken by the King and about 80 Prisoners amongst which many Captains who were presently by the King set at liberty the Duke ran great hazard in his own person and Don Ieronymo Augustini was unhors'd At the same time the Provence Army consisting of about 15000 Foot having brought some Artillery in Barques from Marselles came neer to Nizza or Nice and having sent a Trumpet to Don Felice the Dukes natural Son and Governour of that City to demand free passage thorow that County he was answered It was not in his power to grant it without leave from his Father he therefore had time allowed him to know his Fathers pleasure and the mean while the Army pass'd over the Varo a little River which descending from the Alps and falling into the Sea two miles beyond that City divides Italy from France in that part At the same time that the Army having pass'd over the Varo spread it self along upon the Shore of Nice the Neopolitane Galleys coming from Genoa with some other Galleys of Doria's store playd upon the French Squadrons as they marched towards Nice to avoid which danger the French went more inward into the land and being free from the shot of the Enemy which could not reach them the Galleys retreated towards Villa Franca where they landed about a thousand Foot who taking some Stations near the French had some Skirmishes with them at a great distance off and of no great importance till news being come to Nice of the Agreement made between the King and Duke of Savoy at Susa they forbare all hostility and the Galleys taking in their Souldiers returned to Genoa The Duke finding after the unfortunate success at Susa what a tempest over-hung his Dominions and the State of Millain thought it better to stop so great a ruine by Agreement then to hazard the total business with so weak and unseasonable opposition he therefore sent the Princess his Sons wife and Sister to the King to Susa that by her neer relation in blood and by the grace and favour which she received from the King she might appease her Brothers anger and sending the Prince after her he by their means came to a Treaty of Agreement which being at last set down was after much debate stipulated by the Cardinal of Richelieu on the Kings behalf and by the Prince in his Fathers Name in form following That the Duke should give free passage to the Kings people whensoever it should be requisite for the relief of Cassalle and Montferrat and should also furnish them for their moneys with Victuals and Munition for the maintaining of the Kings Army and of Cassalle That he should promise that the Governour of Millain should rise within four days from before Cassalle and should withdraw his men from Montferrat freeing that City and that State from the King of Spains Garrisons and should leave the possession thereof free to the Duke of Mantua together with an express promise from the Governour in the King of Spain 's Name That for the future he should not molest the States of Mantua nor Montferrat and that the King of Spain should ratifie this Agreement within six weeks That the Duke of Savoy should put 15000 Quarters of Victuals into Cassalle and should restore all the Towns that he had taken in Montferrat except Trino and so many other Towns as should be worth 15000 Crowns yearly Rent answerable as he said to what Nevers had promised him before the present War and That this should be by him acknowledged to be in full satisfaction of all that he the Duke of Savoy could pretend unto in Montferrat That he should assign over Susa and the Castle of St Francesco to the King for pawn of performing what was agreed upon in which Forts the King should put a Garrison of Swissers which should swear to restore them to the Duke when these Articles should be by him observed That notwithstanding it should be lawful for the Duke to keep all the Towns he had taken in Montferrat till such time as those Forts together with the Town of Susa should be restor'd unto him That the King should promise as he did not to molest the King of Spain 's Dominions nor those of his Confederates That he should take the Duke of Savoy into his protection in case he should be assaulted upon this or any other account by any whatsoever Potentate That in case the King of Spain should refuse to ratifie these Conventions or should not observe them after they were ratified the Duke should joyn with the King of France to force the King of Spain to ratifie and observe them Moreover there was one thing more Articled which contained a League and Confederacy between the King of France Duke of Savoy the Pope Venetians and the Duke of Nevers in defence of the quiet possession of each others Dominions The first Article being agreed upon it was immediately sent away to the Duke of Savoy who calling to Councel Don Ieronymo Augustino and Count Iovan Serbellone the King of Spain's and the Governours Officers consulted with them whether they ought to be accepted of or no And the urgency of the present condition prevailing with all of them over the utility and honour of the common Forces it was resolved they should be accepted of But the Duke not herewithal satisfied would send the Commendatore Iovan Thomaso Pesero his first Secretary of State to the Governour to know his pleasure more precisely who though with an ill will yielding to necessity consented to it Thus the first Articles being subscribed by the Duke the Siege of Cassalle was raised and the Kings Forces retreated to Montferrat which State was also freed from the Spanish Forces at the very appearance of the Kings Person The Duke sent forthwith about 1500 Quarters of Corn into Cassalle as part of a greater quantity by him promised and gave passage to 3000 Foot and 250 Horse which were sent under Monsieur di Toras into the lower Palatinate As for the other Article touching the League the Duke made many excuses to keep from under-writing it and being afterwards free from the imminent danger utterly denied to do it He went soon after himself to kiss the Kings Hand and was upon the way met by the King half a mile from Susa who pretended he was going to hunt they both of them turned back the meeting was full of reverence and submission on the Duke's part who was received with much honour by the King the Duke striving
endeavoured to win him over to declare for them and they so well knew they the advantage of his joyning with them abusing their patience left nothing undone which might not prejudice them though little to their honour the Cardinal agreed for provision of victuals with some of the Dukes subjects and bargain'd with some others for the conducting of such as were in Nizza to ease his present necessities The Duke made them all be imprisoned but not being able without apparent contumacy to deny the conduct of such as were in Nizza since he had already received monies for their conduct he would appoint the conductors himself who depending wholly upon him brought more or lesse according as he pleased But the Army not being able to continue longer thus and the Cardinal being either to break with him or unworthily waste his Army or return with shame to France before he would break he would make the last trial He promis'd that he would assault some place in the state of Millain provided that the Duke would furnish Casalle with victuals the Duke either did not or did not seem to refuse the proposals Whereupon the Cardinal made his Van advance consisting of 7000 Foot and 1000 Horse under Marshal Cricky and going himself out of Susa with the body of the Army came to Cazalletto a place near Avigliana and the Duke sent good store of victuals to Casalle which finding that the Van being come to Rivas a Town in Montferrat did not prosecute the voyage he made them stay preâ—…ending that the Van alone could not do any thing of moment against the state of Millain so as it was necessary that the rest of the Army should follow The Cardinal was mightily troubled to be thus used perceiving that those very tricks were used to him which he used to others For as this marching of the Van was feignedly peâ—…formed by the Cardinal to make the Duke put victuals into Casalle so the Dukes sending of victuals appeared to be counterfeit to the end that he might make the Cardinal come out of Susa with his Army where he had as yet some provisions wherewith to subsist to the end that he might bring him to before the Spanish and the Cesarean Armies without victuals and be but badly backt by the remainder of his Army which tarried behind So as he might either be overcome by Famine without fighting or if he should fight he might be miserably destroyed And the more to witnesse the Dukes bad intentions it was added that notwithstanding that he had good store of monies disburst unto him per le Tappe and other quarterings he would not permit that the Army should passe by the usual way that it was to march and which leads from Susa to Avigliana where the way was more commodious broader and where there was better quartering but made it passe by the way of Condove and Cassalette which lies on the left hand very improper for the Foot much more for the Horse and for the carriage of the Artillery where there was no order nor provision for quarter and where they were to suffer both hunger and cold insomuch as the Army which tarried here some dayes had perished had not some remainder of victuals which were yet left in Susa been brought thither But this not being able to maintaine them long and the Duke pressing them to advance the Cardinal thought it not fit to pursue that voyage and leave Avigliana behind him where the Duke was with all his men Wherefore he answered that if the Duke would have him advance he must furnish him with victuals and declare openly for the King and remove the impediment of Avigliana which in the condition it was in would not suffer him to advance The Duke reply'd that the great scarcity of victuals must excuse him from sending in provisions that he could not declare against the Emperour who was his Sovereign Lord from whom he held so many Territories in fee and as for Avigliana that he was not bound as the Rebels of France to demolish his Townes to pave the way for the Kings Army but that to free himself of all jealousies he was ready to take some of his men out of Avigliana to which purpose he drew from thence about 7000 foot but he placed them in the guard of the Bridges and Passes by which when the French should be past LaDora they might assault him which the Cardinal perceiving he resolved to use force and to go against the Duke when he should be past Dora who tarried with some of his men in Rivoli and to this purpose was Cricky sent for back from Rivas where he continued still with the Van the Duke was aware of this and did not fear it for having munited Avigliana and Torino well the places whereupon he thought the French were likeliest to fall he hoped he might hold them play there till such time as the Cesarian Army and Spinola's might advance and finding them incamp'd before those places might easily rout them in case they should not long before be made to quit the enterprize for want of victuals But a new and unthought of accident alter'd the state of affairs the Duke going that very night from Rivoli went to Torino and abandoning the Bridges and Passes of the River which the French were to assault the next morning he afforded them conveniency to passe over the River without any impediment This so sudden and unexpected change was attributed to some knowledge that the Duke had got of some treaties held by the Cardinal in Torino where there were then many French and amongst them two of Cricky's Sons who as soon as they heard the Duke was entred the City retired to the Army whereat the Duke being mightily offended he made the chief of the French that remained in the Town be imprisoned as complices of plots and treaties and published a manifesto in print wherein he complained bitterly of the Cardinal that whilst he was entred his Dominions as a friend and whilst he had furnish'd him with victuals and other things to the great prejudice of his own people from whose mouths he had pull'd it he had endeavoured to oppresse him with plots and treaties within his own doors only for not having joyn'd his Forces with the French against his Sovereign Lord the Emperour and against the King of Spain to whom he had no reason to professe himself an Enemy wherefore declaring himself openly for the Emperour and King of Spain against the French he made new and more urgent dispatches to Spinola and to Collalto to make them advance with all possible speed to relieve Piedmont promising them full and assured victory over the Enemy who were streightned by so many necessities of which victory the happy end of the enterprizes of Mantua and Casalle would be the undoubted result The Cardinal was in great confusion at this the Dukes sudden and unexpected resolution his Army being in great danger to be lost for to send
defence of Pontestura hoping that by gain of time they might the better mind their own Fortifications but the effects proved otherwise for on the fourth day the defendants began to parly and on the fifth agreed to surrender the Town upon all the conditions they could desire except that they were not to enter into Casalle nor tarry in Italy and they were bound to leave all their victuals and provisions behind them Thus Don Philip became master of this place and made the French go to Finale and from thence to Marcelles with little reputation from hence he went to St. George his Castle which was not above a mile and a half from Casalle where there were but twelve French men in Garrison besides the Towns-men who were very well armed and prepared for defence here they met with more resistance for the defendants refusing to surrender Don Philip began his Mines which he began to make upon the Flank of a Tower but they did no good by reason of artificial fire-works which being thrown from off the Walls burnt the pent-houses which shelter'd the work-men so they were forced to work further off in a better cover'd place where being safer they slew some of the defendants amongst which the Captain of the French whereupon the rest fearing to be served so likewise surrendred upon the same Articles that Pontestura had done but not with the like infamy Rossigliano remained yet untaken where there were about 300 French and Montferrians this place being cut off from Casalle by the loss of St. Georgio it was thought it would be loss of time to attempt it since it could not prejudice Casalle but Spinola to whom Don Philip writ sending word that they should proceed on they went thither the place was strong enough and seated high Marquess Moncausier the chief of the French Garrison was Governour a young sprightly man desirous of fame and to make amends by his valour for the obloquie that was laid by all men upon the French for having defended Pontestura so poorly so the business proved somewhat longer and more difficult the defendants upon the enemies appearance came forth and after some skirmishing retreated into the Town to which the enemy drew neer making their approaches on three sides and on two sides their Batteries but all their attempts which were many were manfully withstood and the Siege was held out for 15 days but at last a mine being made in the third approach to boot with their batteries they were forced to yield upon the same conditions as Pontestura had done only Moncausier with some others were permitted to go into Casalle which being block'd up by the loss of these places and kept from all succour and victuals and fearing to be shortly assaulted by Spinola's whole Army it was not likely to hold out long yet the French that were in it were not dismaid but hearing that a company of the Dukes Horse were quartered in Morano beyond the Poe they went out by night and passing over the River in Boats they fell upon them at unawares kil'd many of them and brought many of them prisoners into Casalle Spinola seeing the peace not effected left about 6000 Foot in Piedmont under the Camp-masters Don Martined ' Aragona Antoniâ—…dal Taffo Nicola Doria and Baron Shamburgs and 1000 Horse under Ierardo Gambacorti Governour of the Neopolitan Horse with Orders to them all to obey the Prince of Piedmont and he himself went to the Siege of Casalle and taking his leave of the Duke he excused the necessity of this his resolution upon the account of the great Garison of French which was in Casalle which keeping the State of Millain and part of Piedmont in jealousie no reason of war would permit that that Rendezvouz for the enemies Arms should be suffered by reason of the great inconveniences which might result from thence all their joynt Forces being in Piedmont and being confident out of his experience in taking in of Towns and by the opinion of his Captains that the Town could not hold out for above 40 days he promised the Duke that when it should be taken he would return with all his Forces to assist him Colalto also parted from Piedmont leaving between three or four thousand Dutch there under the Baron Gallaaso who were put in Garrison in Avigliana Spinola begun the taking of Casalle about the end of May not being resolved whether he should attempt it by Storm or by Siege though they hoped the Siege would not prove long by reason of the small quantity of victuals that were in it yet calculating that the number of defendants were lessened by the sending of men into the Towns which were taken but a little before it was judged that storming would prove the safer and the shorter way the rather for that the Forces of the French Army being sufficiently diminished the fear of their opposition was proportionably lessened wherefore it was thought better to dispute the business by force of Arms then streightning it by Famine to depend upon the success of a Siege which through uncertain and false calculations proves more uncertain and more falacious but were it either that his felicity followed him not but was fix'd to the Belgick soil or that the several ends and emulations of the Chieftains who managed that war did turmoil his genius or that his dâ—…ath which shortly hapned cut off the thred of his excellent fortune he was forc'd to succumb in this The Duke di Mena Nevers his second Son commanded in Casalle a young man and but little experienced in Arms so as his person served for little more then for the authority and reputation of the Government and conduct of Affaâ—…rs and to keep concord amongst the Captains and Military obedience in the Citadel was only a Garrison of Montferrians under the same Marquess of Rivara who had withstood the former oppugnation the French being 2000 Foot and 300 Horse defended the City and the Citadel who were commanded by Marshal di Toras one who had won the same of much valour and the opinion of being excellent at the keeping of Towns by his singular and valiant defending of the Isle of Rees which lies over against Rochel against a treble assault of the English Fleet the chief Fortifications when Toras came thither were only towards the Poe and towards the Plain where it was assaulted by Don Gonzallo it was but little or not at all fortified towards the Hill and Toras searing to be assaulted on that side was very industrious in fortifying it the Citadel had no out-works nor Fortifications save two Half-moons the one of which shelter'd the Gate whereby relief was brought the other that which was towards the City Toras made another very great one doubly begirt between the two bulwarks of the Citadel where he apprehended to be assaulted Neither were these provisions made in vain for Spinola thinking this the fittest place began four approaches from thence the first whereof was committed to
of Artillery there they likewise sent for those men back who were at the beginning of the Truce sent into the Territories of Millain and upon dispute whether or no they should meet the Enemy if they advanced it was resolved to wait for them in the Trenches that they might not lose thaâ—… advantage by going to meet them which they were sure to have by waiting for them Whilest these Preparations were making came news of the peace which was made between the Emperour and the King of France his Agents at Ratisbone by which many things were stipulated Those wherein Italy was concerned were That upon the Duke of Nevers his humbling himself to the Emperour he should be re-invested into possession of his two Dukedoms and received into protection by the Emperour That upon notice of the peace all hostility should cease in Italy That Trino should be given to the Duke of Savoy together with as many Towns of Montferrat as might be worth 18000 Crowns yearly vent The Emperour being desirous to better the Treaty at Susa wâ—…e iâ—… either for that it did in some sort belong to him so as he thought no account was made of that Treaty it being made without his Authority or were it to recompense the Duke for the losses he had suffer'd in the present Wars wherein he had been ever constant to the Imperial Party he ordered so many Towns of the Dutchy of Mantua to the Duke of Guastalla as were worth 6000 Growns per annum to the Dutchess of Lorain what the Arbitrators should adjudge unto her within a certain prefix'd time That the Dutch restoring Mantua with the Forâ—…s and the Town of Caneto should depart Italy That the Sâ—…iards should give over the Siege of Casalle and should withdraw from Piedmont â—…o the State of Millain That the French should pass back over the Alps quitting all the Towns of Piedmont and Montferrat except Pinarollo Bricheras Susa and Avigliana That the Duke of Savoy detaining Trino should withdraw his men into Piedmont That Casalle and all the Forts and Towns of Montferrat should be restored except such as should be assigned over to the Duke of Savoy That Nevers should have leave to furnish such Towns as did belong unto him with Garrisons as his Predecessors had done These things being done that the Emperour should cause the City and Forts of Mantua and the Town of Caneto to be assigned over to the new Duke and that at the same time the King of France should restore the four Towns held by him in Piedmont to the Duke of Savoy and that the new Fortifications which were made in them since they were taken should be demolished When this should be done that the Emperour would aâ—…andon all the Towns and places which he had taken in the Grisons Country the Valtoline being therein comprehended and would slight the Fortifications upon condition that they should not be made use of by any That the Emperour and King of France should give Hostages to the Pope for the observance of what was agreed upon This was the contents of the agreement and conditions of the peace of Ratisbone for what belong'd to the affairs of Italy And many other things relating to the affairs of Germany were likewise stipulated which because they concern not our History we will pass over It was evidently seen what use the French Agent made in this peace of the Emperours necessity and of the desire he had to have his Son chosen and how much the Electors were swayed by the interest of the Crown of France being desirous to allay the great ends of the Spaniards and to moderate the Emperours Authority and Inclination towards them confiding-upon the tacite Intelligence held by them and the other Germane Princes with the King of France and upon the helps which they hoped for from him in these present occurrences The Court of Spain was not well satisfied with this peace thinking that the Emperour without any respect had unto the Crown of Spain the Interests oâ—… Affairs thereof and without any care of the Common Cause had wholly applied himself to satisfie the desires of the Enemies thereof granting them more then they could have demanded or hoped for and not being able â—…o endure that they could not with the Forces of so mâ—…ny Kingdoms obâ—…ain the demolishing of the Citadel of Casalle they complained that the expence oâ—… so many moneys such Forces and so many men had not only not produced the fruits by them desired but had irreconcileably alienated from them an Italian Prince Lord of two States confining upon that of Millain had not got Savoy had scandalized the world raised jealousies in the Princes of Italy and which most troubled them had more confirmed and almost established and radicated the power of France not only in Italy but in Germany So as the Italian Agents not knowing whether they ought to accept of this peace or no especially since they were sure it was not accepted nor approved of by Don Carlo Doria the Embassadour for Spain in that Diet they forthwith sent to Spain to know that Kings pleasure and expecting Orders from that Crown they continued the Siege before Casalle and kept out the French succour Collalto was sick at this time in Vercelles and having accepted and published the Capitulations without participating them to S ta Croce Iulio Massarini the Popes Agent went immediately with them to the French Army to the end that acquainting them that all things were agreed upon they might proceed no further He found it in Canale a Town in the Territories of Asti and desiring to know the pleasure of the Commanders he received a very doubtful answer The French alledged That the command to relieve Cassalle was immediately from the King whereas the Agreement made at Ratisbone came not from the King but was made only by the Kings Agents And therefore not knowing what to do in this case they seemed much perplexed and irresolute The truth was that being uncertain whether they would be accepted or not accepted by the Spaniards by reason of the disadvantagious Conditions for them whom they found not any way obliged thereunto and finding that the time prefix'd for putting what was agreed on in execution touching the Duke of Nevers his Interests which was the chief point of the present War was somewhat long they had reason to doubt That should they supersede never so little their Army might be dissolved before the time of executing the Articles and it was to be apprehended That when the Spaniard should be free from fear of their Forces they might know the advantage and make use of the occasion by continuing to besiege the Citadel now that they were sure not to be molested which if they should once be Masters of there was no hope no means left to see the Peace performed They therefore resolved to advance to relieve the Town without losing any time thinking that if they should succeed therein they could not miss of
care upon him and who discharged it like a Souldier The French seeing that contrary to their opinion the Dutch were come unto the Camp found the disadvantage of their own Forces they were not only much inferiour to the Enemy in number 20000 Foot and 5000 Horse being computed to be in the Spanish Camp and for that the Spaniards Horse were better then theirs and in better order but for that though their Trenches were imperfect towards the Plain yet were they so high as they were able to withstand the first on set wherein the French are usually the best But the good order wherein the Spanish Army stood did chiefly amaze them which was thus A great number of Pikemen and Musketeers stood on the front of the Trenches behind which were two ranks of Battaglions in order but at such a distance from the Trench as the Horse which were on the Wings of the Squadrons and had their out-lets might manage themselves in the space which was between the Trench and the Squadrons and might commodiously go out and annoy the Enemies on the Flank who should assault the Trenches or over-run the Country as occasion should require It was notwithstanding impossible to Spuntare a Francesi who advanced in a double Front divided into three Bodies each one led on by a Marshal with the Horse on their sides and preceded by some forlorn hopes and yet the diffidence irresolution and the fear of what might happen in San Croce kept things equally ballanced these desired Agreement rather then Battle and the others though they more needed Agreement yet seemed they less desirous of it and the seeing the Enemy so forward to accord made them the more backward and God knows wheâ—…her the Mediators dealt sincerely in the business or no Mazarine went several times between the one Camp and the other but in vain the French being still resolute to relieve the City and to fight at last being got neer the Trenches their Horse on the left Wing were set upon by some few Horse led on by Octavio Picolomini who was advanced with them rather to discover then to fight so as all men thought they would have joyn'd Battle for some of the French Horse went to encounter them and they came to the giving of fire but Mazarine coming at the same time from the French Camp cried aloud Halt Halt whereupon all hostile Acts ceasing they came to this Agreement That Toras should come out of the Citadel with all the French where the Duke du Mayne should tarry with 1000 Montferrians and That they should swear to keep the Town in the Emperours Name That the Spaniards should do the like for what concern'd the Castle and the City and the Towns which they were possess'd of in Montferrat That the French Army should retreat into France and the Spanish into the State of Millain That for all things else the Peace of Ratisbone should be observed This being thus setled San Croce together with the Duke of Lerma and Don Philip son to the late Marquess Spinola came out of the Trench and the Duke of Nocera and Count Iohn Serbellone and about 30 other Lords the three Marshals came out of the French Army with the like number of Lords and Commanders and here in the same place which was intended for Battle they mutually embraced each other and Peace was established on the 26 of October the year 1629. which was readily put in execution for what was then to be done A raâ—…e and perhaps unheaâ—…d of exâ—…mple That two Armies of two such enemy Nations being so neeâ—… nay after the Skirmish was begun should not only abstain from fighting but should lovingly embrace one another with those hands which were ready to be imbrued in one anothers blood All men praised the courage and counsel of the French and their happy success who though far inferiour in Forces could notwithstanding make such excellent use of the Enemies fear as to make them agree and condescend unto what was contrary to all reason And all men on the contrary wondred that the Spanish Army should be so void both of couâ—…age and counsel as not knowing how to make use of so many advanâ—…ages but totally yieldâ—…ng to the Enemies preâ—…ensions they should so easily grant unto them that main point whereupon the whole success of the present War did consist and which being still maintained would have established the foundation of the grandezza of all the Kings Affairs and would have kept his Dominions in perpetual security and which being quitted occasioned the loss of regal authority and of that preeminency and safety of the Kings States for the maintenance whereof Arms had with so much scandal been taken up and which was the greater wonder that they should abandon their own and their Kings pretensions then when they were upon the point of obtaining them for it was most certain that the French Army was weary with so long a march was less in number then what it appeared to be worse in order for Arms Horse and all things appertaining to war then upon the present occasion was requisite so as if the Spaniards had been more resolute and bold in their proceedings the French would either not have dared to have hazarded a Battle wherein they were to fight against well-armed Trenches or if they should have fought they must necessarily have been defeated but San ' Croce who was not any ways experienced in matter of war apprehended and was afraid of all things The two Armies being retired from Casalle the Duke de Mayne remained with the Montferrians master of the City Citadel and Castle of Casalle under the Cesarean Commissary who though he was above all others and had the chief command in outward appearance yet being only to command such things as du Mayne would obey he was superiour rather in shadow and ceremony then in substance so little good was got by what was agreed upon San ' Croce went to Sartiranna and brought his men back into the State of Millain the French divided their men into two parts the one part whereof marched under Monsieur d' Arpasone through the Territories of Asti the other wherein were the three Marishals through the Canevese the restitution of the Towns in Montferrat remained for the full and perfect execution of the Agreement but Letters being come this mean while to San ' Croce from Spain with particular Orders what he was to do with the Citadel which was undoubtedly held in that Court that it would be lost as not being to be succoured San ' Croce doubted that the new agreement would not be well resented there and as in great resolutions the thing chosen is almost always repented the difficulties of what was found fault with being always imagined to be past and the consideration of what convenience might have resulted from the thing rejected entring in the place thereof so San ' Croce having forgotten the dangers and difficulties of war and being fuller fraught
Decree was occasioned by what had hapned before Casalle after peace was made by the King of France his protesting that he held himself not bound to observe the Articles of that peace and by the agreement of Chirasco which gave little satisfaction for the Emperour finding that the French were not content with the peace but that the King of France at the same time that that peace was made had made a new League with the Swedish King clean contrary to the Articles of Ratisbone and that he furnish'd him with moneâ—…s for the Wâ—…r of Germany and knowing that he could not possibly repair the affairs of the Empire both in Germany and Italy at one and the same time he thought fit to leave the care of the affairs of Italy to the King of Spain the greatest Prince and Feudatory of the Empâ—…e And the Duke of Feria being substituted by the King in this Commission Gallasso who managed the War and Aldringer who had Mantua in possession as also all the 〈◊〉 Princes Feudatories to the Empire were to obey him and to assist him as they would have done the Emperours self and Aldringer was bound to deliver Mantua unto him and all the Towns which he held in that Dukedome for that Nevers who having incurr'd the penalty of High Treason by reason of his contumacy and disobedience had no right to that peace but was relapsed into his former fault and the Duke of Feria by virtue of that Decree might proceed against him with all the Forces of the Empire For fear that this should be put in execution the Venetians the French and all Princes who cared for the affairs of Italy apprehended that all things would be ruined if Mantua should be assigned over to the Duke of Feria they were therefore necessitated to endeavour by all means that the peace might be observed and ratified in the first place and afterwards reform the Articles of Chirasco in satisfaction to the Emperour and Spaniards Thus the agreement of Chirasco being of force it was instituted touching the restitution of the Towns and places belonging to the Grisons whereof the doubt remained that the French instead of the Garrison which by the agreement they were to put into Susa might keep Bricherasco but that Gallasso should be constituted in Mantua and Toras in Turin for hostages the one for the restitution of Bricherasco the other for the Towns and places belonging to the Grisons And because this new agreement was made on the 19th of Iune the time of the former agreement being already expired others were made like unto the former In this second agreement the Duke of Feria was likewise limited more precisely touching the Garrison of Millain and the number of the men were lessened which he was to keep there for Garrisons contrary to what in the preceding peace and particularly in this last of Chirasco was observed for whereas in the former it was said that the Kings Forces should not so tarry in the State of Millain as to cause jealousie in the Neighbours in this last they obliged the Governour precisely to send 6000 Foot and 1000 Horse out of Italy and Rhetia of the extraordinary Forces which were in the State and that if after the restitution of the places there should yet remain a greater number of Horse or Foot then is usually kept in that State they should be dismiss'd or should be so disposed of as no more should remain there then was usually kept in Garrison in the time of peace This agreement was perfectly observed At the time appointed the Duke of Mantua was re-invested and restored to the City and State of Mantua freed of all the Dutch who shall for the future be no more called the Duke of Nevers but Duke of Mantua The Towns of Piedmont were also restored to the Duke of Savoy and lastly for full and entire performance of what was coveâ—…anted the Hostages were set at liberty so as Italy was likely to return into her former serene peace But new clouds soon appeâ—…ring amidst this cleer weather drew all meâ—…s eyes upon them and seeming big of thunder lightning and storms made it be feared they would break out into some dangerous tempest The King of France some few days after the Towns and Hostages were with satisfaction to all parties restored demanded some things of the Duke of Savoy which being directly contrary not only to the Covenants but to the fundamental points of the peace of Ratisbone and of the Agreements made at Cherasco did disturb the Affairs in several manners perplex'd the minds of the Italians and gave the Spaniards more cause of complaint and greater reason to think themselves injured then before he demanded the assignment over unto him of Susa and of Avigliana or Pinarollo and Perosa or of Dimone and Cunio or lastly Savigliano together withall the Towns that are upon the passage to Castle Delphino the reason of these his demands he said was that he might have a way open to come into Italy upon any novelty that might be attempted by the Spaniards to the prejudice of his Confederates and to secure himself of the Dukes friendship whom he once more saw inclined to joyn with the Spaniards against him The occasion of these demands were alledged to be for that together with the ardent desire which the Spaniards as â—…e said seemed to have to exclude the new Duke of Mantua out of Italy that they might unjustly usurp the States which did by right of succession devolve upon him and besides that they for the same purpose had gone against the Articles of Susa and with their own Forces and those of the Dutch called into Italy by them and paid by their moneys had assaulted his Dominions and taken Mantua from him they now endeavoured to come to a third assault when by reason of the restitution of the Towns of Piedmont and the French their retiring into France they were themselves alone in Italy arm'd in the Field the Duke being weak and unable to resist them for want of moneys and men who were consumed by War and by the Pestilence wherewith his States had been so sorely afflicted The King justified these his doubts and jealousies for that though the Duke of Feria had given his word to Galasso that he would cashier the extraordinary Forces out of the State of Millain and reduce the Souldiers to the number that were usually kept in Garrison in time of peace according to the last Article of Cherasco he on the contrary had retained most of the Foot to boot with Scomburgs Regiment and the Neapolitan Horse which he had not only not dismis'd as he was obliged to do but had raised others by the Marquess Rangone and drawn them neer the Confines of Millain and that many Captains and Officers under colour of Reformadoes were sent by him to Naples to raise more men and bring them into the State of Millain that il Signore Merodes a Captain of the Emperours in Alsatia
acquisition coveâ—…ed that it might never be cancel'd out of the memory of man but remain in perpetual witnesse of what he had done for the Crowns advantage he also had contracted a particular and intense hatred against the Duke upon many accounts but more particularly for having been brought to great extremities both by the last Duke and by this when he went the preceding year with an Army into Piedmont so as Revenge being added to the propagating of the Kingâ—… affairs he thirsted to see the House of Savoy reduced to such a weak condition and subjection as the Dukes thereof should never be able to hold up their heads or to gain-say the Kings pleasure nor ever to put such tricks upon any of the Kings Officers or Commanders as they had done upon him and so to leave the impression of his resentment for ever engraven in the depression of that Principality and not finding any better means how to effect it he inform'd the Duke that he had no other way to regain what he had lost then to lose Pinarollo and the valley of Perosa For the King who profess'd himself not bound to observe the peace of Ratisbone was not to receive any prejudâ—…ce by not accepting thereof save only that Mantua should not be restored to the Duke of Nevers a losse wherein his Kingdom was but little concern'd that City being so far distant from the confines of France Whereas by keeping Savoy and Pinarollo with all the Towns he had in Piedmont in his possession he got incomparable more advantage which might largely make amends for the losse of Mantua as well for what concern'd himself as for what concern'd the Duke of Mantua to whom he might procure whole Montferrat in lieu thereof together with Savoy in fee and so better both his own and his Clients condition For if Nevers should be Lord of Savoy he would become a greater Prince by the vicinity of his French Dominions thereunto and the King by retaining the sovereignty of Savoy and possessing Montferrat and the Towns he had taken in Piedmont he would extend the skirts of his Dominions and his authority equally on both sides of the Alps with much advancement of Majesty and Reputation by the great adherence that he would thereby get in Italy and with much prejudice to Piedmont which being surrounded by the Kings Forces would in many respects be subject to the Crown of France and therefore the King being to receive such advantage by not accepting the peace he would not by accepting it deprive himself thereof unless he might be sure to retain Pinarollo and the valley of Perosa To these so hard and so severe conditions it may be believed that fair promises were added of allowing the Duke of Savoy a good part of Montferrat if he would give way to the Kings will Wherefore the Duke being forced by necessity and incited by appearing advantage could not but consent to what was demanded Thus the King of France under the colour of maintaining the liberty of Italy and of the Italian Princes and under pretence that the Spaniards should not curb the Duke of Mantua did himself first curb the Duke of Savoy and made a Prince almost his Subject who was not only an Italian but one so neerly allied unto him but neither was the Duke of Mantua when he was restored to his State in free and full liberty of Principality for besides the so great dismembring and lessening of his restored State he being to receive a French Garrison in Mantua and in Casalle for that it was impossible for him to keep those places well Garrisoned became so dependant upon the Kings pleasure and will as the Kings profess'd protection to him did almost impose as much subjection upon him as the Spaniards could have done it being likely that the Court of Spain which as hath been said was at first so neer granting him free and unconditional possession would have consented thereunto much more willingly if the new Duke should but have permitted them to put a Garrison into Casalle in which case the King of Spain would moreover have been bound to protect him and Montferrat just as he had done the Dukes his Predecessors which â—…e had so constantly done with such profusion of his Subjects blood and of his own moneys as without ever pretending any recompence he kept their State untouched against the Duke of Savoy a Prince so neerly allied in blood unto him and the subjection of the Duke of Mantua in respect of Montferrat did double the subjection of Piedmont for as Pinarollo being assigned over unto the French opened a gate of free entrance into Piedmont whereby to be oppress'd so was Casalle anotâ—…er gate which kept the Spaniards from coming to succour Piedmont when it should be infested by the French and neither of these Princes being any ways able to resist the French if once they were masters of these places it was cleer enough seen into what condition the Liberty of their Principalities was reduced The Grisons fell upon no less inconveniences for under colour that the places that were restored might not be again seized on by the Austrians the King kept means how to enter there by putting French Garrisons into them The King of France his authority did hereby so encrease in Italy if not in Propriety and Dominion of State aâ—… least in such adherence as they not being able to do withall he might make use of his adherents States as of those that were Patrimonial to his Crown but the more the Duke was to be excused for his being necessitated to yield Pinarollo to the King the less was his loss therein compassionated for he and his Father whilst he was alive had made that Principality hateful to the Italian Princes by their joyning with the Austrian Forces whilst they were thought to aspire after the oppressing of Italy by oppressing the Duke of Nevers whereâ—…ore the Italian Princes rejoyced that as those Dukes had co-operated to enslave Italy they had reap'd the fruit and reward of deserting the Common Cause and were themselves taken in that snare of subjection in which so they might have part of Montferrat they cared not though others together with themselves had been taken and the same Italian Princes were not displeased to find that there was a means found to fix the staggering of their conceits wherewith they had tormented others and would not suffer any secure foundation to be laid â—…or â—…he common concernments they were likewise much more câ—…ntented for that the more they saw the Duke waver in the favour of the French they thought the commmon affairs the safer and they were the surer that the Spaniards having lost all hope of winning that Prince over to them and knowing that the French by the Territories of Piedmont and Montferrat did almost confine upon the State of Millain they would be forc'd to be the better conâ—…ent and would â—…ay aside much of their haughty conceits and pretentions by
were therein comprehended they resolved to return to the Camp and have it cleared by the General who being interrogated thereupon it is not known whether as being terrified thereat and repenting what he had done he imbraced the occasion which might make for his justification or whether continuing in his first design of bringing the business to that good end for which he profess'd he had moved it he freely answered that the Swedes were to be prosecuted with the common forces and exâ—…irpated as disturbers of the publick peace of Germany and he was so resolute in this point as no reason which could be alledged to the contrary being able to alter his determination and Arnheim and his companions consenting by no means that the Swedes should be driven out the Capitulations were cancel'd and the Treaty of Agreement was at the same time almost concluded and broken yet the Capitulation was so detestable as all men were generally much scandalized with it the rather for that Wallestein strove not to regain his credit afterwards by contrary actions nor to cancel the sinister opinions which he had thereby purchased but as if he scorned the vulgar opinion giving them new colours he did consolidate them more and more till in time they proved pernicious to him The Capitulations being broken Wallestein sent part of his Forces to assault Saxony which made the Duke thereof recall his men from Slesia to defend himself Arnheim immediately after he had received his Princes Orders marched with his Army towards Saxony leaving a Garrison in Slesia under the old Count de Toure a chief Lord of Bohemia whose authority was so great in the Diets of that Kingdom as the Palatine acknowledged his promotion to that Crown from thence which made the Count be declared a Rebell by the Emperour Arnheim also left Colonel Tubal one of the chieâ—…est of the Swedish Commanders to accompany the Count. Wallestein kept behind Arnheim having also left as many men in Slesia as Arnheim had done but when he saw Arnheim so far advanced as he could not return to succour the Count in Slesia he faced about and returning speedily to Slesia he came thither just then when his men were ready to fight the enemy and he did so surround the enemy as he took the Count and Colonel Prisoners and gave life and liberty to all the other Souldiers and Officers upon condition that they would march into the Emperours quarters and joyn themselves to the Cesarean Army but the Colonel finding a means quickly how to escape made men suspect that Wallestein had underhand given him his liberty as he had openly given him his life The Count having bargained for his own liberty delivered up the Towns in Slesia which were yet in his power and those of least consequence being delivered up the Duâ—…mo di 〈◊〉 which was the chiefest and which commanded all the Province and which by agreement was to be delivered up held out so as the Counts presence being requisite for the surrender thereof he was set at liberty upon condition that he should return prisoner if the Duâ—…mo were not effectually delivered up which not being done and the Count not returning Fritland was still more blamed of collusion with both the prisoners and much more for that having sent so many of the enemies to the Emperours Army he was thought to have done it for that owing their lives to him they should upon all occasions depend upon him yet professing himself abused by the Count and breathing out nothing but revenge he went with his Army to Turingia and Lusatâ—… Provinces which belonged to the Emperour but were in the Duke of Saxony his possession and prosecuting his former designs he seemed resolved to make that Duke and the Marquess of Brandenberg make peace with the Emperour he therefore made much progress there took many Towns amongst others Franckfort upon the Odâ—…r and Lansperg in Marca di Brandenberg both of them great Cities and of much consequence whereby he made way for passing further into the march in the Country of Brandenberg and in Pomerania in which case if he should come to the Coasts of the Baltick Sea he would keep as he threatned to do the Swedes from being relieved from that Kingdom and from returning thereinto these threats accompanied by the multitude of his Forces and by his happy success did so terrifie those Electors as finding themselves unable to make resistance they press'd very eagerly for relief from the Confederates protesting that that if they were abandoned they must be forc'd to abandon the Common Cause and joyn with the Emperour Oxenstern and the other Heads of the League were divided in their judgements not knowing whether they were to abandon or to relieve those Princes for by abandoning them to boot with the great errour they should commit therein and to boot with the loss of reputation they foresaw the manifest ruine of their party and union On the contrary if they should relieve them they must quit all upper Germany to the Emperour so full of Cities and Towns upon the Rheine and the Danow which so much to their praise and encrease of Dominion they had won and from whence they got infinite contributions of Moneys Men Victuals and Munition which Towns and Territories being abandoned were necessarily to fall into the Emperours power if they should go to relieve Saxony and they should thereby infinitely weaken themselves and strengthen the Emperour so amidst these streights they pitch'd their thoughts upon Bavaria which A'dringer being gone into Alsatia was bereft of all defence and they held it their absolute best course to fall upon it with all the Forces they could assemble taking it for granted that when they should have won that Dukedom the way would be open for them to enter Austria and to come even to Vienna they were confident that by this noble and generous diversion without loss of honour or of any thing they had gotten nay by making yet much greater acquisitions they might bring that relief to the Electors which they could not do if they should go directly to their relief with all their Forces without manifest loss of honour and what they had gotten for the Emperour being assaulted in the midst of his Empire would be forced to recall his Army from offending the Electors to defend himself so as Fritlands cunning would be deluded and his counsels countermined wherewith he had fancied unto himself to destroy their League The success out-did the expectation of so noble and generous a resolution for Duke Weymer being deputed to execute it he with 50 Cornets of Horse and 15000 Foot took both sides of the Danow and coasting along came to Ratisbone where sitting down at unawares he after several batteries forc'd it to surrender within 12 days having gotten it he advanced and took Straubingen and dechendorfe great Towns upon the Rheine and with such gallant acquisitions advanc'd towards Austria so as the Court of Vienna was in
fear of punishment some out of hopes of pardon Wallesteins self thought himself not safe amidst his souldiers chiefly when he found that his chief confidents Gallasso and Picolominy had abandoned him and that Picolominy came with 3000 Horse to take him prisoner wherefore going out of Pilsen a City of Bohemia where the Conspiracy was plotted and accompanied by those who were excluded pardon he suddenly withdrew towards Egra a strong Town of Bohemia confining upon Saxony wherein was a Garrison add a Governour who were much his friends and hoping to be assisted by the Duke of Saxony and by Duke Weymer in this misfortune he dispatched expresses to them acquainting them with his condition and making them plainly see that this was the time to quell the Austrian power he desired them either to come speedily or send to Egra where they might ripen the yet unperfect Counsels and joyn in a solid union against the Emperour he sent the like advertisements to others of the Swedish Army with whom he had had some such intelligence before but being come with his associates to Egra instead of finding any that would side with him there he found his murderers and those who came to nip this Rebellion in the bud for the Governour of that place and those who were there hearing of the Emperours Edict received him within their Walls joyfully but conspired his ruine The Governour invited Fritlands associates to a splendid Supper where whilst they were at the Table they were slain Fritland who being ill of the Gout rested in another Lodging hearing an extraordinary noise at his Gate got out of Bed strove to open the Window and to endeavour an escape out of it the Window not being very high but the Door being broken open he was knock'd down with Halberts This was the end of Albertus Wallesteine Duke of Fritland and thus ended his vast and immense Plots a Commander who certainly deserved any other death then this he was worthy to be compared to Stilico one of the Emperour Honorio's chiefest Commanders not so much for the greatness of his Military actions as for his misfortune of having stained them at the last with Treachery This Stilico waging war 1200 years ago for the Roman Empire against the Barbarians was then as Fritland now the only support of the Empire which was in a tottering and sad condition by the inundation of the Barbarians and being arrived as this man was to the greatest height as a private man could come to he unfortunately lost his life for Treachery and affected Tyranny and yet as the spots which by our modern Mathematicians are round in the Sun are so buried in the refulgency of the Sun-beams as they are not of force enough to obscure the light and splendor of so great a Planet so Stilico's faults being out-done by the beams of his Valour and by his famous Victories did not at all blemish his memory to posterity wherefore we may hope that this our Commander may fare accordingly The two Scipio's after the Victories won and famous actions performed on the behalf of the Commonwealth of Rome were likewise accused and ended their old age miserably the one in prison the other in exile Hannibal proved the like fortune amongst the Carthaginians Bellesarius and Narses two famous Commanders â—…an the like misfortune under the Emperour Iustinian and to come to later times Gonzallo Fernandes di Cardova surnamed il Gran Capitano being either guilty or suspected by his Prince to be so died banish'd from the Court and not much better then Confined to a poor little Village Howsoever this our Commander wanted not authentick testimonies of his fidelity even after his death the confederates Commanders with whom it was thought that he had plotted so hamous Conspiracies having always found themselves deluded by these feigned Treaties did not believe him when he invited them this last time to Egra but not trusting him any longer and fearing to be abused as they had been formerly they moved not at all but proceeded so considerately as his speedy death freed them from that misfortune whereinto had they been more credulous they had undoubtedly fallen and as his most suspected actions and those whereon his being guilty of high Treason were most grounded are accompanied by several Arguments of his innocency and seem not sufficient to convince him so those good wits have not been wanting who by their eloquent declamations have endeavourâ—…d to prove his accusations false and have vindicated his innocency but howsoever all that can be said in his justification cannot so far free him but that his publishing the Instructions brought him by Questemberg and the subscription under-written by his Captains and accepted of by him together with all that was done at Pilsen must convince him of a manifest attempt against his Prince it not being lawful for a Vassal under whatsoever pretence to jest in so nice Affairs and the unworthy Conditions which he extorted from his Prince before he would re-assume the place of General and those hateful Conventions agreed upon with the enemies to the Empire before Suainitz were so enormous and scandalous as they are not to be defended Moreover who can doubt but that his endeavours to ruine Feria's Army and to keep out that of the Infanta the one whereof was to bring so much endammagement to Germany and the other would have been manifest and cleer evidences of Treachery in a much meaner Officer then he It being a no less hostile Act to endeavour the destruction of any ones Forces and Armies by secret plots and machinations then by weapon in hand The same may be affirmed of his persecuting the Spanish Agents who were so fit instruments for the Emperours service and for his contrivals against the Jesuites who are so great maintainers of the Catholick Religion it not being to be denied but that the one was a manifest attempt against the Divine the other against Humane Majesty for which certainly any of a meaner condition would have been blamed Now let us reassume the thred of our Narration The flame of this horrible Rebellion which was likely to have undone all Germany and therewith the Germane Empire being extinguished almost before it was kindled and sedition being also ceased in the Camp the Army returned to the Emperours obedience who being freed from so dangerous a stormâ—… made his Son the King of Hungary go into the Field with no less applause then success who as you have heard was chosen General of the Emperours Forces after Walle stines decease to whom the Duke of Bavaria presently joyn'd with his Army and with the Army of the League and being desirous to illustrate his first fruits by some signal service he began with the recovery of Ratisbone which was formerly taken by the Swedes This is a Hans Town of Germany scituated upon the Danube almost in the bosome of Bavaria a very opportune scituation for the safety of Austria and for the regaining of Bavaria there
number of 13000 Horse and 20000 Foot in that of the Emperour which was governed by Gallasso under the title of the Kings Lieutenant Geneâ—…al were 7000 Horse commanded by Picolomini and 5000 Foot besides 2000 Hungarians and Croats which served more to trouble the Enemies quarters with inrodes then to fight in open fields In that of the League wherein Iohn de Vert the Duke of Lorreynes Lieutenant commanded at first and afterward the Duke himself when he was come unto the Camp were 3000 Horse and as many Foot in that of the Infanta's whereof the Marquess Leganes was Camp-master General were 3000 Horse under the Maâ—…quess Spinola and 12000 Foot under several Commanders all choice and veterane Souldiers composed of severall Nations besides many Gentlemen and Captains of quality who served as Voluntiers In this alâ—…eration of affairs the more that battle was desired by the Imperialists the more did the others coole in their desire thereof yet Weymeâ—… continued the same fervency rather to fight then to suffer such a City to be lost whilst he looked on and had past his word to those of Nordlingen to relieve them and free them from siege within six dayes His loss of Reputation egg'd him much on thereunto which â—…e foresaw he must undergo if the loss of this Town should be added to those of Ratisbone and Donevert whereby all the Hans Towns of Germany from whence he had so great supplies of Monies Men Munition and of Victuals for maintainance of the Army would certainly quite forego the Leagues party and turn over to the Emperour So as those supplies failing the General conâ—…ederacy would soon dissolve he was also encouraged to try his fortune by his having been so often victorious over the Imperiall Forces and by his being certainly advertised that the Infanta's men exceeded not 2000 Horse and 5000 Foot Wherefore despising the numbers of the one and the courage of the others he perswaded himself of assured victory On the contrary Horn the head of the Swâ—…dish Militia measuring things more warily was against hazarding the Forces of the League upon the event of battle and almost all the subordinate Captains were of his opinion They considered the uncertainty of battle that their numbers were fewer then those of the enemy that those whereof the Imperial Army was then full were valiant men that there were three Armies in one conducted by three great Princes that the King of Hungary had won much reputation by the Victories of Donevert and Ratisbone that the Infanta and Duke of Lorrain especially the Infanta had store of valiant and experienced men that the presence of these Princes was much to be considered by reason of the courage that upon such occasions it infuses into the Souldiery that therefore the hazarding of a Battle might prove dangerous that the Victory would be more certain by delay then by fighting for that the Cesarean Army was streightned in Victuals Straw and Foâ—…rage and could not consequently keep in those quarters long on the contrary that he was abundantly provided of all these things from the Country of Wittenberg which lay on his back so as since they might overcome and provide for the freeing of the Nordlingers by cunâ—…tation wherefore should they expose the main affair to the cast of a Dice to this was added the difficulty of the way by which they were to march it being an uneasie Country for the carrying of their Cannon and being possess'd and fortified by the enemy that to boot with all this they expected Count Otto of the Rhein with 2000 Horse and 5000 Foot and Count Cratz with 800 Horse and 3000 Foot which were very considerable Forces upon this occasion which were neer â—…and and therefore necessary to be tarried for but Crats appeâ—…ring during this ambiguity of opinion and the six days prefix'd for relieving the Nordlingeâ—…s being expired Weymer who as General of the Conâ—…ederates Forces was to govern being impatient of the least delay or doubting perhaps that the Rhingrave would not out of emulation for superiority joyn with him as he would not do in the relief of Ratisbone not suffering any further dispute commanded to proceed to the relief he had with him somewhat more then 9000 Horse and 16000 Foot whereof 4000 Horse and 5000 Foot were Germans 4000 Horse and 2500 Foot Swedes commanded by Marshal Horne 6000 Foot were brought into the Field by the Duke of Wittenberg and the 800 Horse and 3000 Foot brought by Count Crats which in all made up the number of 9000 Horse and 16000 Foot This resolution being put on they marched from their quarters intending to attempt a certain Wood by which they were to pass before they could come to the Field where they were to fight and because it was thought it would be hard to get into the Wood by reason that the way was so narrow it was resolved that when they should have gotten it they should proceed to assault the Camp which lay beyond the Wood and if they could not gain the Wood that then they should forbear and take up their Quarter in a convenient place neer a little River where they would wait for the coming of Count del Reno who was thought to be within a days march This Army appeared with this resolution before the Wood three hours before Sun-set against which 3000 Horse were immediately sent under Octavio Picolominy to discover it and to entertain the enemy by skirmish 〈◊〉 whose appearing as many of the contrary Camp advanced and fought till night drew on the Imperialists were wholly unprovided of Muskets and Field Artillery whereof the enemy was well provided the Imperialists therefore were worsted in this encounter and forced to retreat with the loss of many valiant Souldiers and of some Captains amongst which the Prior Aldobrandino Nephew to Pope Clement the 8th was one who having served with a Regiment many years in those wars had given good trial of his Military valour The Imperialists loss in this first encounter was notwithstanding fortunate for them for it was the rise of a signal Victory gotten by them the next day for the Victors having after this made themselves masteâ—…s of the Wood did not take up their quarters where they had designed nor waited not the coming of the Count del Reno but having won the Wood doubted not to pursue their Victory the next morning on the left side of the Wood there stood a little Hill which commanded the Imperial quarters and all the Plain wherein the Catholick Army were to receive the encounter and wherein the main Battle was to be fought The first of either of the Armies which should possess themselves of this Hill commanded absolutely the enemies quarters and the place which was destined for the future Battle Weymer had no sooner cast his eye upon it but considering the advantagiousness of the situation he designed to be master of it and there being another little Wood at the Foot of that Hill he thought
the defendants had the better of the businesses in repulsing assaults yet was it not had without the loss of many men whereof Cesare Caraffa was slain for one and a Spanish Serjeant Major but many more of the meaner â—…ort of Souldiers and many of the Captains Officers and Persons of Quality of the Enemy were slain but all this was not considerable by reason of the continual recruits which they received from France and it was reported that ten Regiments were upon their march so as the Town was not likely to hold out long Moreover by reason of the length of the Siege many things necessary for the maintaining of the Town grew scarce Moneys Salt Match Oyl and Grist the Enemy having beaten down the Mills which had furnish'd the Town with Grist and none being left but two hand-mills the general necessity could be but badly supplied Therefore all hope of preserving the place grew daily less and less not only in the defendants who through such wants decreased but in those who laboured to relieve them for it being to be done either on this side or on that side the River it was if not impossible very hard to be done on either side There was no thought of relieving it by the Lomellina the Bridg being down and to relieve it on the other side was too desperate a business the Mountain at the Foot whereof the Town stood the Hill which stood on the side of it the fields and banks which environed it being all of them possess'd and well munited by the enemy and Parma's quarter was at last recruited by the Marshal The difficulties growing thus great the chiefest of the Spanish Army began to detest the generous resolution of Celada and Spinola by which they and so many of their best men had engaged themselves in that defence and whereby they had been obliged to hazard the Garrison and State of Millain not knowing therefore very well what to do they inclined rather to abandon then to relieve the Town and beginning now totally to despair of keeping it they began to think what they were to do when it should be lost and foreseeing that when the enemy should have taken Valenza they would go either into Allessandria or into the Territories of Tortona as they openly threatned they would do they began to build a Fort beneath Valenza there where the Tanaro falls into the Poe intending to throw a Bridge over there whereby passing over into the Territories of Alessandria they might the more easily get into that part of the State to relieve either of those Cities if they should be besieged or to defend the Campagna if it should be annoyed by inroads or at least that they might bring some help to the languishing Town if any way might be opened whereby to do it on that side which though they were but slender undertakings and but of little hope yet the extremity wherein they were did either perswade them to it or made them believe it to be the least of evils whilst the Spanish Army was amidst these miseries troubles and dangers three Brigades came very seasonably the one Spaniards under Don Iohn di Garray the other two Neapolitans under Achilles Minutulo and under Andrea Count di Marianella which made in all about 4000 good men and well appointed who were sent by Sea by Marquess Sancta Croce who being gone the third time from Naples with the Fleet to Sea to assault Provence and hearing the great danger that Valenza was in and then the State of Millain held it his better course to endeavour the preservation of that State then to put for possessing what belong'd to another deferring therefore his chief enterprize he very seasonably landed these Brigades at Finale and sent them to before Valenza by whose coming the Spanish affairs got a little breath and every one began to hold the abandoning of Valenza and the Captains therein to be not onely ignominious and detestable but dangerous and ruinous so as they resolved by all meanâ—… to relieve it to this purpose they held a consultation in Dorno a Town between Pavia and la Pieve del Cairo whither all the Commanders and Chief Officers being come as the Cardinal Albornozzi and with him Don Francisco di Melo Don Antonio Ronchillio who was Lord Chancellour and divers others of the Councel both of State and War they all were of opinion that the Town must be relieved but with such caution and circumpection as that by so doing they might not be enforced to a battel which notwithstanding the re-inforcement which was come they did all of them abhor the resolution was in it self repugnant by reason of the neerness of enemies army for the caution did absolutely resist the execution of it and yet the business being long discuss'd there was a remedy found Don Martin d' Aragona and Don Iohn di Garrai took upon them the charge of this business and propounded a means which was generally approved and found a way how to relieve the Town safely without hazzarding battle and it was this that some place should be found out in the Lomellina neer the Poe and neer Valenza capable to receive the whole Army and all provisions necessary for the maintenance thereof which might be so fortified as they might not be compelled to quit it nor be brought to fight neither by assault nor want of provisions from whence they proved thus that it might be possible to relieve the Town without being forc'd to fight the men which lay before Valenza would either come joyn with the Pidemontese who were quarter'd on this side the Poe and which were fewest in number or they would not come if they should not come who could doubt but that the Army being safely quartered in the Lomellina wherein were 6000 Foot and 1200 Horse all of them good men and well appointed and being to be masters of the field might by boats brought by land bring into the Town what relief they listed and not so only but by the advantage of their numbers force the Savoyards to quit their quarters and if they should come to joyn with them and that the greater part of those that lay before Valenza should pass from that place to this it was certain that they could draw the enemies army out of their quarters without much slackning the siege of Valenza in which case the Town wanting opposers they would not need many defendants whereof having already more then needed the same effect would be wrought by the passing over of the enemy as if they should be succor'd by the defendants moreover the enemies trenches being weakned almost abandoned by that coming over men enough and sufficient provision might be convey'd into Valenza from the City of Alessandria these things being granted they proved that doubtlesly the Town might be relieved without their armies being forc'd to fight this dilemma was generally approved of so as some might be sent to discover the countrey the enemies
to receive in so many men shut the gates upon them but took in the Captains who were nobly treated by the nobâ—…lity of Parma and the rest were sent to quarter in S. Secondo Soragna and in Fontanello At the same time that this succour was sent directly from Millain to the Duke of Modena the Governour would also assist his State and his affairs by diversion he therefore ordered Don Carlo della Gatta to enter the Dukedom of Piacenza with 4000 foot 600 horse and six pieces of Artillery who in obedience thereunto sat down immediately before Castel S. Iovanni the first Town of that Dukedom confining upon the State of Millain and placing his Artillery against the walls of that Town which were weak and old and not lined with earth the Towns-men who saw they could not resist surrendered the Town and Gatta entring thereinto fell to take the Castle wherein were 120 French men who after 15 days siege were forc'd to give it up during which time the Governour desired that the horse who were not imployed in that service might over run and lay waste the countrey of Piacenza to help the Duke of Modena yet more by diversion which was molested by Marquess Villa wherefore the Marquess of Carracena who commanded them chose out 300 of the best horse and went first to assault 250 French horse who were quartered in the Towns three miles from Piacenza he fortunately routed them and chased them till they came to a certain rivolet which ran cross the way which when the French had past they rallied and faced about and being routed again by Carracena they got under a Town called Rottofreno from whence some Foot came forth to aid them they fell to skirmish the third time wherein Carracena being sore hurt in the leg by a Musket-shot he retreated and gave over the fight so as the French Horse which pursued them routed them and had the slaughter of them till they came to Castel San ' Iovanni which when they were come neer unto the rest of the Horse which were there coming forth together with a Foot Company to assist them they fell into further disorder for this succour coming the same way as those that were pursued did they were broken and disordered by their own men who fled back by the same way in this action about 100 of Carracena's Horse were slain and some taken prisoners amongst which Beccaraia a Captain of Horse who was first sore wounded and yet the entrance of Gatta and Carracena into the Territories of Piacenza was not to no purpose for it freed the Duke of Modena from having his Country molested by the Piedmontese it being necessary to send for Marquess Villa back to relieve the parts about Piacenza so the Duke of Modena being free from this disturbance had leasure to resent himself and to take Rossenna a Town belonging to the Duke of Parma which was wholly environed by the Territories of Modena The Spaniards took likewise Colorno a Castle belonging to the Duke of Parma considerable for its strength and for the opportunity which it afforded of passing to the City of Parma and some moneths before Fiombo and Guadamiglio two Towns in the Territories of Piacenza lying beyond the Poe were taken by the Marquess of Carracena But the Governour that he might revenge himself yet further upon the Duke of Parma gave order to Gerardo Gambacorta General of the Neapolitan Horse that he should enter his Territories with two Dutch Regiments the one of Horse conducted by Count Slic the other of Foot led on by Colonel Gild ' Ais and that they should proceed further against him The Duke of Savoy and the Marshal thought that it would redound to the discredit of the League if they should suffer those States to be invaded whilst they stood idly looking on with their fingers underneath their girdles and should behold the misfortunes of that their Confederate Prince whereby they might fall into the displeasure of the King and Court of France the King having given the care of preserving his Dominions in charge to them since therefore they could not directly assist by opposition they resolved to do it by diversion so joyning their Forces and making up a body of 9000 Foot and 500 Horse the Marshal went therewith from Vercelli and passing over the Sesia took Palestre an open Town where there was no Garrison from whence he went to Confienza and then to Robbio where there were some small Foot Garrisons and taking them upon conditions he pass'd with all his men over la Gogua a River in Lomellina and went to Vespolano where for two hours space he was stoutly resisted by the Towns-men who when they were able to do no more quit the Town and retreated to the Castle The Marshal entred the Town and quarter'd his men thereabouts but at so small a distance as they might easily come together and joyntly defend themselves in case they should be assaulted The Governour hearing of this new commotion sent Orders immediately every where that all the Foot and Horse should meet about the Tessino he recalled Gambacorta with his Dutch Regiments from the parts about Piacenza and fearing that the enemy might fix their eyes upon Vigevano he ordered them to march with all diligence towards that City whereinto having formerly sent 100 Spaniards he went from Millain to Biagrassa where Gambacorta was come that very night with two Dutch Regiments and with the Horse from the Country of Piacenza and there being only a hundred Spaniards and some few Dutch in Vigevano he feared that the Marshal might keep that City from succour if the Marshal coming to the Tessino should hinder the passing over of that River and consequently it would be taken wherefore he commanded Gambacorta that with all speed he should passe over the Tessino and should secure that City and all the adjacent Towns from being sack'd and from inroads all which being punctually performed by Gambacorta the Governour pass'd with the rest of the men to Vigevano where he tarried some days to expect a Regiment of Dutch conducted by the Baron di Lezer who was to come shortly and also to tarry for the Artillery which was come out of Pavia and could not be long a coming In this interim some of the Marshals Forces advanced to a little weak Town called Civagliana which they took leaving the Castle unattempted which they would not tarry to take the enemy being so neer but the Governour who was in Vigevano with 6000 Foot and 2000 Horse thought it stood not with his honour that the enemy should advance armed further into the State of Mallain and should continually grieve the Inhabitants sometimes with quarter sometimes with composition he therefore resolved to march into the field and keep them from such insulting he went straight to Novara intending to come upon the back of the enemy that so by keeping him from returning he might easily vanquish him being gone a few miles he heard news
his friends but by his enemies for his singular valour and for the gallantry of what he had done Fontanero being taken they talked of going to Sandoval or to before Novara but a strange and unexpected accident hapned which made them think of greater things six French Souldiers who according to the fashion of the Spanish Souldiers wore red Scarffs coming to the Tessino feigned themselves to be Spanish Souldiers and seeing the Barque wherewith they cross the River and which is commonly called Porto on the other shore as he is called Portenaro who guides it they earnestly desired the Portenaro that he would come and pass them over to the other side offering him a good reward for their waftage the Portenaro thought them to be friends by the red Scarffs which they wore and being too credulous and too greedy of gain went to the other side the River and took them into his Porto who presently slew him and passing over to the other side they found the Country abandoned by the Inhabitants who by reason of the neerness of the enemy were fled to the tops of Mountains so they took some Cattel and passing with them over the River they went and acquainted the Duke and the Marshal with what they had done and shew'd them how easie it was to pass over the Tessino The enterprise was very hopeful and glorious beyond expectation and was not to be despised and so much the rather for that to keep in the State of Novara as they had done till now with little advancement made but little for their honour wherefore that somewhat might be done they thought they were forc'd to embrace any whatsoever hard imployment and then much more this which was so easie and which was so propitiously presented to them by fortune they were the more encouraged to this enterprise by what little esteem was had of the enemies Forces which keeping still within the Trench they thought they would not dare to encounter them and that at the present they would shun coming into the open field to keep from hazarding the welfare of the State upon the uncertainty of a Battle having therefore sent some Horse over the Tessino to discover the Country and the affairs better they tarried expecting their return that they might the better ground their resolutions and finding by what they brought back that they agreed in their relation with what the others had said they threw over the boats which they had brought with them in Carts and making a Bridge of them pass'd the Army over to the other side and staid some days waiting some happy occasion which this so fortunate accident might present unto them the Bridge was thrown over neer Casa della Camera the first thing which they did after they were passed was to break the Sprone which is nothing else but the keeping in of the Tessino with great stones to the end that the water being thereby stop'd may rise into a channel which they call ill Naviglio whereby they pass even to Millain carrying and re-carrying boats full of provision from the Lake whence the Tessino comes to Millain and which are necessary for the City and for the Inhabitants who live upon the Lake and to take away the water from the Naviglio that so they might streighten the City in point of provision and bereave it of the advantage it got thereby they afterward fortified themselves in Tornavento a little Town on the left bank of the Tessino and extended their Fortifications to the Brughera which is nothing else but a Copse of many miles about where nothing grows but brush-wood or low shrubs which those of Lombardy call Brughi they tarried there some days pillaging those parts and having no place to take nor Mountains nor Rivâ—…s to pass over nor no enemy to encounter for Guasco was not yet come thither and Don Martine d' Aragona being far short of them in numbers who heard in Novara that the enemies Army had passed over the Tessino did also pass over it himself a little lower and was come to Bigarasso they might march safely to the Walls of Millain when the enemies passage over the Tessino was heard of and that an infinite number of the Inhabitants thereabouts were flock'd together with their Wives Children and with what else they had of most value as to a place of refuge the Citizens fell into such terrour and confusion as greater was never known in the memory of man or was ever read of in ancient Story The City of Millain was bereft of defendants and as it were exposed to be assaulted by the enemy who was very strong neer at hand and was hourly expected to appear before the City walls they saw the Governour and all the chief Officers stood idly minding only the keeping and defending of the Trench and that they did not at all care for the rest of the State so as they might keep the Duke of Parma from passing over that this was the chief thing whereupon all their thoughts were bent that they cared not though the enemy burnt plundered and laid the Country waste they saw that the Army which had been raised at the peoples so great expence and which had suffer'd such hardship in their quarters all the Winter made nothing at all for their saâ—…ety at this time of so neer danger so as the people exclaimed in the streets against the Spaniards and against the Governour himself and bewailing their miseries were neerer tumultuating then preparing to prevent their imminent danger many also thinking the City lost sent away what they had of most precious into the State of Venice so as the Gates of the City were pester'd by those who believing in her safety ran thither with what best things they had and by thâ—…se who not confiding in her safety fled away with what they had of most precious and convey'd them into safer places they were all the more disturb'd by hearing that the Duke of Rohan was fallen down by the Valley of Sarsina into the State of Millain and was come neer Lecco which if he should take he might safely come to the City and joyning with the Confederates Army might put for mighty things so as in this great confusion many of the chief Gentlemen had recourse to Don Ranchillo a Spaniard and Chancellor of the State who in the Governors absence supplied his place desiring that he would use his authority and that he would endeavour the peace and safety of the City he had at the same time received Letters from the Governour who was at the Trench of the same tenure wherefore beating up Drums immediately to raise as many Citizens as he could as well Gentlemen as others he distributed them upon the Walls and Gates in several places to defend them he also took care for repairing the walls and Gates where it was most requisite wherby and by other provisions men began to be of better hopes they were chiefly quieted by the coming of Prince
Borsoda Este into the State with 2500 Dutch who sent them immediately towards Lecco to oppose the violence which Rohan threatned and to keep him as far from the City as he could but the confusion of the Confederates was not less then that of the Millainois when they found themselves in an enemies Country which was laid waste abandoned by the Inhabitants and wherein the neighbouring Towns not being able to furnish food contribution nor quarters necessary for their daily sustenance they were forced not without delay difficulty and danger to have them from Piedmont and from the Continent of Novara they therefore knew â—…at to keep there with so much inconveniency was impossible and that to go to Millain as their so happy passage did in honour bind them to do was dangerous and difficult for if they should do so they must necessarily in the first place abandon the Bridge which not being to be fortified it was impossible to secure and the impossibility of securing it arose from the left side of the Tessino which being very high and commanded by many Hills it was altogether as impossible as necessary to fortifie all those Hills so as to secure the Bridge from battery and to fortifie them so as that the one might be a help to the other and that they might all joyntly concur with that which guarded the head of the Bridge for otherwise any one of those Hills being taken by the enemy and a battery being thereon placed the Bridge must necessarily be beaten down the Army must be debar'd the River being in an enemies Country wanting the conveniency of retreating and of those succours which they were only to expect by the Bridge being moreover exposed to be insulted over by the enemy who it was to be supposed would quickly come and fall upon them to their ruine and undoing to this was added that they heard a flying rumour that the Governour hearing that they were pass'd over the Tessino was already removed and was already come with his Army very neer Millain so as if they should go thither the Governour must either necessarily be got before them with his Army into the City or come upon them when they were hottest in besieging it or when they should have finished their Siege in any of which cases there appeared manifest ruine for if he should come before they were sat down before the City it would be a rash and headlong resolution to go to assault a great City well peopled and that they should not be able to continue the Siege having an enemy Army upon their backs and that in their retreat which would be necessary they were likely to receive a great blow and that say they should take the City the Souldiers would assuredly fall to plunder and would not obey their Captains commands but flying from their colours and running about the City without any Military Discipline nothing but ruine was to be expected they therefore concluded that their going to Millain would afford the enemy an opportunity of obtaining a signal Victory Yet the Duke of Savoy had much a do to keep the Marshal from going thither Who alleaged that the pressing over the Tessino had alwayes been dreadful to that City and was likely to prove so now more then ever That therefore it behoved them to make use of the occasion and aspire after the victory which they could not fail of if they would couragiously go about it That else they had done better never to have passed the Tessino then after so happily past it to do nothing That to make any doubt thereof was nothing else then to abandon the occasion of overcoming and to shun victory That the French Army had never past the Tessino but that the issue thereof had been the entire acquisition of the State of Millain Wherefore then should they now forbear when the Enemy who were inferiour to them in Forces and far more inferiour in Courage would never dare to shew their faces nor hazard battle When the people full of confusion and fear and moreover very ill satisfied with the Spanish Government would joyn with theâ—…in the ruine of so abhorred an Empire But reasons to the contrary and the authority of supream command which resided in the Duke prevailing over the Marshals Allegations and the having also heard for certain that the Governour was at last gone from the Trench and was come neer the City the Marshall was forc'd to give way to the Dukes will not without much murmuring Not proceeding therefore any further and being forc'd to go from thence by Famine they resolved to go towards the Lake and to take Sesto Anghiera and Arona which were scituated in the mouth thereof which believing they should take without any manner of difficulty they thought to be thereby masters of the whole Lake Whereby they should command the onely passage which the Spaniards had to bring men from Germany into the State of Millain And not being now able to bring in any by the Valtoline that State would be a prey to the French Armies when they should assault it with greater Forces The Duke therefore preferring the safety and advantage of this proposal before the airy and perillous enterprize of Millain made the Bridge be broken up and ordered that the Army should march towards the Lake putting some of the Boats whereof the Bridge was made into Carts and drawing some against the current of the River they marched with their Army divided by the River the Marshal with his French along the left side the Duke along the right side with his Piedmontese But the Governour having in this interim heard of the Enemies being past over the Tessino by messengers sent unto him from the City of the confusion of that City the desolation of the State of Novarra and of the Towns on this side the River he at last left the Trench and sending precise orders to all those that were either in the Country of Tortona or in the parts about Picenza to follow him he past over the Poe and the Tessino with Don Francisco di Melo and some others and came to Pavio and without entring Millain he went directly toward Biagrassa He sent Melo notwithstanding to Millain to be Governour of that Castle lest some disaster might happen in so great confusion For fearing lest the Enemy might approach the City he thought fit to put a wise Governour thereinto and one of authority Melo being come thither was very diligent in bringing Ammunition into the Castle by night lest if it should have been discovered it might have caused greater fear in the people He also armed 1200 Horse which were come a little before from Germany and put the much confused Affairs of the City into better Orders The Horse being armed were presently sent to Biagrassa and with them 13 Companies of Neapolitans and those who were come from the French and from the parts about Piacenza past over the Poe and the Gravalone and went to joyn
the same wood whence not daring to come forth any more the assailants when that impediment was removed had opportunity to advance unto the Trenches amidst all this toil and danger the heat was excessive great and there was no water thereabouts so as the souldiers hot with continual fighting having no shade to shelter them from the Sun which shone then excessive hotly nor water wherewith to quench their thirst they could no longer withstand the extream heat which consumed them both within and without Serjant Major Octaviano saw a Wind-mill somewhat far from the place of fight but well guarded by the enemy he went thither with a good many Musketeers and driving the Defendants away not without much contest he became master thereof and opened unto the thirst-burnt Souldiers a large vein of water who as soon as they heard thereof forsook their ranks and without any respect ran confusedly in crouds to refresh themselves therewith this refreshment enabled the army to continue the fight more vigorously and the Governour hearing what refreshment the Army had received ordered Sauli to have a great care of that station and not to abandon it without particular order from him but all this while the victory was far off the Duke of Savoy having re-made the Bridge past over with his fresh-men to this side the river and brought very seasonable succour to the French who were ready to forsake the field by whose coming though the defence was much strengthned yet did not the assailants fail to play their part but kept the field as before and therefore though the Dukes arrival took from them the glory of victory yet was it not sufficient to make them losers at last that which the night could not do the wearyness of the souldiers did which put an end to the assault three hours after Sun-set the assailants departed in good order not losing one man in the retreat being well back'd by the Cavalry but this was more then needed for not any of the enemy a thing noâ—… often read of came out of their Trenches to pursue them their end being onely to keep their quarters they thought they had done enough to keep from being driven from thence or peradventure the Gallantry shewed that day by the assailants made them keep in but because the place where the sight was was incapable of quarter being nothing but brush-wood without water save that of the Mill without Trees without fortifications or forradge for the Horse which had born armed men all that day without either food or rest they were forced to go quarter at Biagarassa which was fifteen miles off this business decided the difference between the Duke and the Marshal touching going to Millain and the Army that was assaulted had the honour though not the title of victory which was due to it by Military law for having kept it's station and it would have carried away entirely the title of Victory if the Duke of Parma who was the chief occasion and end of these conflicts had made use of the occasion of passing over the â—…rench at Tortona at the same time when it was abandoned by the Governour and had so past happily into his Dominions This Prince as you have heard was sent from Bremi to Nizza with a convoy of three thousand Foot and three hundred Horse to the end that the going of the Consederates army towards the territories of Novara being likely to draw the Governour with his men from defending the Trench to defend these parts the Duke might make his way by that Trench when it should be abandoned and pass securely into the Countrey of Piacenza The business succeeded as it was designed and better for the Governour being forced by the unexpected passage of the French over the Tessino hastily to forsake the French which he left guarded by Carlo della Gatta with onely five hundred foot too small a number by much for the large extent thereof and the weather being then very dry and the Scrivia very shallow it had been easie for the Duke to pass the Trench and come into his States and if as easily he might he had done so what greater glory could the Confederates have won then to have then put that Prince happily and honourably into his Dominions and that whereas to keep them from doing so the Governour would force them to fight with so much disadvantage against the Trench of Tortona they to effect it by better and more advised counsels had compelled him to abandon that Trench nor had their glory ended here for they might moreover have boasted to have almost totally freed the Dukes Dominions and to have brought his Convoy safe into the territories of Piacenza which being joyned to the forces which were there already might have defended that Prince from being injured by the Spanish forces which successes would assuredly have been glorious and memorable if the Duke of Parma had co-operated to perfecting of the common ends and Counsels the reasons which hindred the Duke of Parma from doing so may be guest at by a letter which he writ to the Duke of Savoy in answer to one written to him by the said Duke two days before the conflict at Tornavento wherein Parma was exhorted to advance and get into his Dominions by the Trench which the enemy had abandoned whereunto Parma answered the day after what had hapned at Tornavento that it was impossible for him to undertake that journey for want monyes that moreover he wanted victuals munition and carriages to convey his baggage though it were but little and that it was impossible for him though he should make never so much diligence to repair so many wants especially since he who was deputed to defray the expences had refused to pay a small sum of money which he had desired he also said that by the convoy which was given him he had no power to command nor to make the Souldiers obey him so as he could not make use of them who were become very contumacious for though at first they seemed very willing to serve him yet not long after they had altered their minds at the instigation of others who had suggested unto them that they should not be satisfied in their pay when they should be come into his Countrey wherefore perceiving that ill blood began to be bred amongst them and that this malady began to spread abroad in the multitude it had so infected them as many of them had run away that very night and that therefore he had given them leave to go unto the Camp to the end that his Majesties affairs might suffer no prejudice by their absence and parting that very night from Nizza with seven other horse he went towards the Sea whither being come about break of day he hired a little Vessel at Voltri and steering directly towards Lerici and passing incognito through the Luniggiana he came unknown and almost unaccompanied into the same City from whence he departed ten moneths before
of Ranusco and that assignment was now descended to the now Duke of Parma who was his Heir and who succeeded him therefore the Duke of Medina and his Wife in their own names and in the name of their Son sent to Don Francisco di Melo to recover the deposited place Melo went to Parma where that Duke not being able openly to refuse restitution he demurred upon the expences of the Garrison which had been kept there during the time of depositure which he said came to 300000 ducats and Melo being unwilling that the business should be retarded for point of moneys the sum of 300000 ducats being reduced to 200000 the Duke was contented to assign the place over to him and the Italian Garrison marching out a Spanish Garrison was put into it to the great satisfaction of the Spanish Agents but this was not done before the Castle of Rossenna was restored to the Duke of Parma which was taken from him by the Duke of Modena as hath been said when he first moved against the Duke of Parma with which restitution the differences between those two Princes were adjusted it was generally thought that the Duke of Parma did so easily part with this to revenge himself of the Venetians with whom he was much unsatisfied because they had never lent him any the least assistance in the present war but had suffer'd him to submit to the Spanish Forces knowing very well how much the Venetians would be troubled at the Spaniards having of that place but though the Duke was not assisted by the Venetians or by his Brother in Law the great Duke with Arms yet could he not deny but that he was favoured by them both by their powerful endeavours that his Dominions might not be taken from him which doubtlesly prevailed more with the Spaniards and it is certain that these two Potentates were ascertained by the Spaniards that they made not this war to oppress him but to extinguish that fire in him which was not pleâ—…sing to these two Potentates nor to the other Princes of Italy in respect of the common concernment wherefore having without advising with them and contrary to their liking and minds continued his commotion they had no reason by assisting him to be drawn into a war which they foresaw would be pernicious to their particular and to the common interest and which would make Spain their enemy and keep them from using their best endeavours in that Court for his service The Governour being rid of the business of Parma which as a stumbling block had been a great hinderance to the proceedings of the Kings affairs applied himself to re-gain the Langhe which are little Castles held in see of the Emperour by several Lords situated in the Mountains of Liguria confining partly upon the State of Millain partly upon the Commonwealth of Venice partly upon Piedmont and Montferrat and at the present garrisoned partly by the French partly by the Piedmonteses The Governours Forces were at this time encreased by men come from Spain Naples and Germany and he expected others from the Swissers which made him betake himself the rather to this business it was not long since the Duke of Savoy being desirous to defend himself in those parts had taken the County of Milesino seated on the back of Savona wherein was a Castle called Cengio very strongly seated and very convenient for passage by Sea and which standing in the midst between the Marquisate of Finale and the State of Millain was very proper for the preservation of that Marquisate the possession of this place caused much jealousie in the Spaniards who were desirous to open a passage by Finale for the men which for the future they intended to land there and also because when Finale should be assaulted it was not to be succoured by the State of Millain but through that County The Governour was therefore forced to clear those parts from the enemies Garrisons to effect the which he began with the Town and Castle of Ponsone whether under the conduct of Emilio Gliglino he sent a body of men part Spaniards part Italians part Dutch who coming within sight of the Town took it without any opposition For the Garrison which were French at the first appearing of the Enemy abandoned it and retreated to the Castle to the taking whereof Artillery and greater store of forces being required Don Martind ' Aragona was sent thither with more men and with Artillery which being planted against the Castle and the Defendants hearing no news of any relief it was within a few dayes surrendred At the same time Gill de Hays boasting that he could surprize Nizza he was sent thither by the Governour from the City of Alessandria with three Regiments of Foot and two of Horse who parting two hours before Sun-set was to have been that night at Nizza which was not above twelve miles off But not coming thither till two hours after the Sun was up and therefore not able to take it by surprize he possess'd himself of the Convent of Capuchins where he fortified himself the Governour thought himself ingaged in that enterprize wherefore he quitted Cengio in the Langhe that he might not leave the business of Nizza unperfected he therefore went thither himself in person with all his Forces and having opened Trenches on severall sides even almost to the ditch a Parly was heard beaten on that side where Serj ant Major Ottavino Sauli was advanced further then the rest with Marqness Cosmo Richardi his Brigade who entring the Town and Hostages being given on all sides the Town was soon surrendred This business being over the Governour sent presently some Brigades to take in Aiano a strong Town in the County of Asti where it confines upon Piedmont and therefore of great consequence for getting into Piedmont To which expedition the Camp-master General Phillippo di Silva was deputed who in his passage took a Town called Costigliole neer Aiano and finding there great store of Corn and Wine he sent Ottaviano Sauli to possess himself of Montegrosso a neighbouring Town also seated upon a Hill well peopled having a strong Mannor-house which serves for a Castle whose Defendants standing upon their defence and having stoutly resisted Sauli's assaults were at the third assault overcome and many of them slain and the Castle after obstinate opposition was also taken Then they went with all their Forces to Aiano which stands upon the rise of a Hill and commands all the plain about it Silva not thinking that he needed any Artillery failed in his supposal being forced to keep five dayes before it till the Artillery was brought where with he made two batteries and having plaid a while upon the Town he took it upon good conditions which when he had done he re-inforced it with new works and put a strong Garrison into it The Governour went from Nizza to Annone and passing over the Tanaro upon a Bridge which was thrown over at Croce Bianca he thought
over against the Abbey of St. Lasaro by which they sent men to possess themselves of that Abby which being defended but by 60 Souldiers after the making of some shot surrendred here the French made their head-quarter and began diligently to fortifie it viewing attentively on which side and where they might best bring the relief and the Governour though at the first appearance of the enemy he seemed very desirous to fall to an assault lest in case of delay his Army might be assaulted by the enemy on the back yet he was kept from doing so for that all things were not ready for an assault For though the Spaniards were already come to the brink of the ditch of the Tenaglia on the front whereof there stood a Half-moon which was made undefensible by their Cannon-shot and though the Dutch were also gotten to the ditch of the other Tenaglia yet the Italians who were in the middle between them were not come within 45 paces of the Bulwark which they were to assault and yet the Governour fearing to be disturb'd if he made any longer delay setting all considerations of whatsoever difficulties aside gave Order that every one should be ready in their quarters about two a clock at night Thus the sign being given at the hour appointed they fell on couragiously and finding the defendants awake and vigilant the conflict was great and hard the defendants assisting themselves with Granadoes Fire-works and Stones and the assailants as valiantly overcoming all difficulties continued constant in the enterprise The Spaniards having first of all bereft the Half-moon which stood before them of all defence by their Artillery got upon the Tenaglia and killing some and taking other some of the defendants prisoners they became masters of it and fortified themselves therein the like befell the Dutch who likewise took the other Tenaglia The Italians met with more difficulty as not being yet fully prepared the Bulwark which fell to their share yet overcoming all difficulties they advanced unto the ditch and driving away the defendants betook themselves to the Bulwark which not having been plaid upon appeared impregnable yet being masters of the ditch they would not quit the enterprise but digged a Mine the fear whereof made the Bulwark be abandoned the next day and the assailants took it and fortified themselves there the defendants were astonished at the loss of these three chief places the rather for that they saw it was done whilst the French Army looked on who without moving suffer'd these three so important Works to be lost and yet when those within the Town were offer'd fair conditions by the Governour they shewed much courage and confidence in their answer but on the other side they acquainted the French Army with what they had suffer'd and in how great danger they were of being lost if not soon relieved not only in defending themselves against assaults and in sallying out but for want of bullet to supply the which all the Pewter of the City had already been made use of upon which news the French Army advanced to within Musket-shot of the City on Sandoval side and intending to break down the enemies Bribge they sent a Fire-boat down the River which being detained fell on fire to no purpose yet resolving to bring relief they cast their eye upon the Island made by Servo and Sesia and thinking that as indeed it was to be the weakest part they resolved to pass by there and to keep the Spanish Camp from re-enforcing the Island upon the coming on of night they made several seeming assaults upon sundry parts of the Line nor did the Stratagem prove vain for the enemy fearing that the succour would be attempted on a part which was guarded only by the common people they sent for some men from the Island thither though the Marquess Serra whose charge it was to defend the Island did sufficiently oppose it so about the fourth hour of the night a Body of 1500 Foot advanced part French led on by Colonel St. Andrea and partly Savoyards and Piedmontese led on by Colonel Senantes The Cardinal deputed Monsieur di Castellano a Marshal of the French Camp and the Marquess of Pianezza General of the Dowagers Foot to order the whole action who had leave to cull out the best commanded men both of the French and Piedmontese to order the business to discover the foords and to pass their men thorough them whilst the rest of the Army stood ready to keep off any diversion the relievers waded over the foord which came up to their middle and the Marquess Serra prepared for defence industriously notwithstanding his Forces were dismembred they were stoutly resisted every where and the attempt would doubtlesly have failed if aguard of Grisons who were placed between the Spaniards and Italians had fought as stoutly as the rest did but no resistance being there made for they basely abandoned the station at the very first brunt the relievers began to pass over the Line Serra who was imploy'd elsewhere when the business began came to that place and finding that the defendants had basely thrown away their Arms and were directly run away he encouraged those few that followed him and gave in amongst the thickest of the enemy where fighting with much danger to himself and encouraging others by his example he stopt the current of the relievers and though he was shot through the Arm by a Musket he continued fighting till Francisco Tuttavilla Lieutenant to the Camp master General came in to his relief with a squadron of those who were under Bolognino and who having no certain place allotted them to defend were appointed to go where there should be most need And Bolognino coming in with the rest after Tuttavilla those relievers who had not yet past the line were repuls'd Moreover the Horse which being distributed into several squadrons stood in guard between the City and the line were faulty also upon this occasion some whereof ran down-right away and part being deceived by the succourers who in the dark night cried Viva la Spagna past by those Horse and stole into the City and about 1200 of them entred with the succour which did prolong the life of the Town for a few days but was not sufficient to do so long For the Enemy having possess'd themselves of the chiefest out-works those of the Town were not able to recover them though they endeavourd it For they sallied to recover the Bulwark which was taken by the Italians here the conflict was greater then in other parts and it had been recovered had not Bolognino advanced with the most of his men and after a bloody contest forc'd them to retreat and the assaults given for the two Tenaglia's had the like fortune from both which after a fierce fight the Assailants were beaten back The Governour being angry to see the Town relieved made some Officers be proceeded against and put to death who thorough their carelesness were the occasion
more courage then fortune for the Italians who under Count Iovanni Boromeo coming with much courage to the breach which was made by the Cannon and which was not yet perfected were sorely gauled both on the Front and Flank by four pieces of Cannon by Musket-shot and by stones So as not being able so much as to get over the Ditch which was partly full of water and partly full of stiff Clay they were forced to go about by the Gallery at the Foot of the Wall and to go round about above fifty paces to find the breach to which not being able to get without much prejudice for they were every where exposed to the enemies Muskets Don Carlo Della Gatta resolved to fall with his Brigade upon the Bulwark from whence the assaulters were played upon this Bulwark was made of earth and Fagots and was environ'd with a dry ditch so as Gatta thought he might easily gain it which if he had done he held for certain that the impediment ceasing the breach might be easiy entred but he was deceived for being shot in the leg by a Musket he was forced to retreat and though his Serjeant Major Iovan Battista Brancaccio got with some of the hardiest of that Brigade beyond the middle of the Bulwark yet they were stoutly resisted and at last repuls'd as were they also who were gotten to the breach through so many dangers under Boromeo nor did the Spaniards do what they intended for having in vain attempted that place where the Mine had played to no purpose and failing of their hopes by reason of the green bulwark by which they were play'd upon on the Flank they sent 500 Foot to take it who having fought a long while they sometimes thought to gain it as they had done notwithstanding that it was stoutly defended had not the Governour Dogliano who saw the danger sent a body of French seasonably thither under Colonel S. Andrea a stout and understanding Commander of the same nation who though he fell being shot by a Musket yet having together with the rest discharged the part of a gallant man the Assailants were forced to retreat nor did the assault given by the Dutch prove more effectual who when they had gotten the plat-form and the half moon as hath been said went to assault the breach which they had made For though it was noysed that the Spaniards had scaled the walls which made them desirous to appear no less forward then they yet finding the Defendants very ready and resolute it was not possible for them to advance So as the Governour of Millain finding by the many disadvantages of the unseasonable assault and by the good order and resolution of the Defendants that it would be but loss of time to persevere in the enterprize and that it was impossible to do more after four hours fierce and obstinate fight he ordered a retreat to be beaten and that the assault should be given over by which there was nothing got but the plat-form and half moon which the Dutch had taken and the death of Colonel St. Andrea which was reputed a great loss by them within the Town But neither did the Dutch keep that long which they had gotten for they were driven from thence within a few hours being assaulted before they were fully fortified And notwithstanding that they resisted stoutly yet so furious was the assault as none coming to assist them they were but hardly dealt with and many of the chief of them were slain amongst which the Lieutenant of Prince Borso who commanded them The reason why no succour was sent was for that the Enemies Horse hearing that the assault was given came from Parvolo and by falling upon the Line endeavoured to assist the assaulted City at least by diversion by drawing the Enemy from assaulting the City to defend their own Camp as they necessarily must do The Assailants and Defendants having vied who should shew most Valour and Resolution the Marquess of Caracena with his Brigade of Spaniards began to sink a Mine under that wall which played and the Italians sunk another under the wall that was batter'd and the Dutch not being able to sit down by the affront which they had received endeavour'd the next day to regain the works which they had lost and going in a great body to assault them after a long contest they lodged in the half moons parapet advanced to the foot of the plat-form under which they sunk another great Mine And when fire was ready to be given and that they were prepared for a general assault the Marquess of Caracena as he was ready to give fire unto his Mine and to fall to an assault might hear a parly beaten from within the Town wherewith he presently acquainted the Governour who commanding that all offence should be forborne wish'd him to know of the Enemie what Articles they demanded they demanded that Hostages might be given and then that the treaty might begin which being granted the Treaty lasted long at last the difficulty was reduced to the time of surrender The Town demanded eight dayes and the Governour would give but two hours and both parties being stiff in their proposals and answers it was at last agreed that the Assailants should enter the works that were yet in the Defendants hands beyond the ditch at two hours before sun-set next day and that the Defendants should march out of the City at two of the clock the next day and deliver up the City to the Governour with leave to carry away the bones of Duke Victorio who was there slain and buried In performance of which agreement the works were presently quitted and afterwards the City was delivered up unto Marquess of Caracensa who took possession of it at the end of 40 dayes after the siege was begun The Souldiers marched out with their Arms and Baggage Drums beating Bullet in mouth Match lighted and Colours flying and carried with them three peeces of Cannon with a safe-conduct to convoy them and necessary carriages to St. Ia as was agreed upon by Articles And they marched out if not glorious for their gallant defence and keeping of the City at lest with much honour both to the Commanders and Souldiers for the singular Valour which they had shewed in defending the City The Dowager was much troubled at the loss of Vercelli she being thereby deprived at the beginning of her Regency of so noble and important a place the very Bulwark and Frontier of Piedmont and she was not well satisfied with the Cardinal of Valletta who being at the time of the surrender in Parvolo but two miles from Vercelli if he had behaved himself otherwise then he did it was thought the City might have been preserved for he was taxed commonly with coolness and irresolution in the whole carriage of this business Vercelli being surrendred the Spanish Army kept there busying themselves in demolishing the line and in repairing the walls which were beaten down by
Savoy as into a place of safety whereat the Piedmonteses were much distasted Marquess Villa's wife who had formerly been the Dukes Governess went along with his person and her children went along with her as play fellows to the young Duke and his sisters or as others would have it as hostages for their fathers Loyalty Chivazzo being taken the Prince no occasion being known why went not to Turin but towards the City of Inurea which presently yielded and the Prince Cardinal joyning with him they went together to Biela where they were likewise very readily received then turning towards the Valley of Austa they found the people there also very ready to render them obedience wherein the Baron of Castiglione had a great hand though the Marquess di Broz who was Governour of that Valley and very faithful to the Dowager endeavoured the Contrary for which he was imprisoned by the Princes thus were they possest of that Valley and in a very short time reduced likewise the whole Countrey of Biela and of Canevese to their devotion the Prince Cardinal tarried to carry on the acquisition of Piedmont whilest Prince Thomaso went to joyn with the Governour of Millain who marching with his Army out of Vercelli was also entred Piedmont and leaving S. â—…a and Pontestura behind him he marched tovvards Crescentino and by the way met the Prince who was come from Chavezzo to meet him they agreed joyntly to fall at one the same time upon Crescentine Verrua wherefore Don Iohn di Garrai being returned victorious from Cengio was ordered by the Governour not to pass the Poe but to affault Verrua at the same time that they should sit down before Crescentino Verrua was affaulted by Garrai and taken and soon after the Castle was surrendred by the Governour thereof who presently past over from the Dovvagers party and sided with the Princes and the business of Crescentino succeeded as happily on the other side of Poe where there was not above 800 Foot in Garrison some assaults were given the best resistance was made that could be but when they saw the Artillery ready to play upon the Walls they surrendred the Walls were immediately throvvn dovvn by order from the Governour to avoid the lessening of their forces which must needs have been occasioned by frequent Garrisons they resolved afterwards to go to before Turin and therefore the Governour being past the Poe and joyned with the body of the Army they marched towards it verily believing that the Dowager would not stay to be shut up in the City and that they should be the more easily received by the Citizens she being gone and that the Cardinal of Vallette and the Dowagers Generalls Villa and Pianezza would not continue to defend the City which was ready to mutiny against so gallant an Army but they found the contrary for the Dowager not at all dismaid at what had hapned and knowing how necessary her presence would be to the preservation of that City which was the Metropolis of the State and that it was onely her presence that kept the City from revolting resolved to tarry there the Cardinal of Vallette and Marquess Villa were already come thither with their Forces from Cengio and though they heard that Verrua and Crescentino were besieged yet they went not to relieve them thinking it necessary for them to preserve their men to desend the Capital City which they thought would ere long be assaulted by the Enemy but hearing that the Princes advanced with the Spanish Army towards the City they sent some French companies out against them between whom and the Spanish Army there passed some sleight Skirmissies the Army marched towards Rivoli Colegno Grasasco Bienasco and other neighbouring Towns partly to know the scituation of the City partly to give time for the ripening of some intelligence which the Princes held in the City as also to observe whether the Citizens were better inclined to the Princes or the Dowager perswading themselves that the abode of the Army wherein the Princes were thereabouts would move the people to insurrection to move them whereunto the Princes Writ to the Chief Gentlemen Ministers and Magistrates of the City declaring that they would receive the Gaurdianship of the Duke and Regency of the State from their hands acquainting them with their pretentions and objecting many things whereby to make the Dowagers power and authority invalid But nothing could perswade the City to favour them for the Dowager had made extraordinary provision to curb such Citizens as were likeliest to mutiny she placed Corps de Guard in many parts set forth severe Proclamations against any one who should but offer to stir she sent many of those who were most suspected out of the Town and imprisoned some The Artillery of the Citadel was also turn'd upon the City and she her self coming out amongst the people with an undaunted and manlike Courage did in her own person animate some with the suavity of her speeches and terrifie others with her bitter threats So as the Prince contrary to his expctation finding such quiet in the City resolved to draw the walls and to streighten the Town hoping that want of things necessary would sooner make it yield then force He did draw neer the City though he was shot at from the walls and though many Companies both of Horse and Foot sallyed out of the City which he easily drove back and made himself masâ—… of the Bridge and Covent of the Capuchins So as the Horse passing over the â—…oe by means of the bridge came to the new Gaâ—…e from whence some Troops of French Horse came out against them who were also forced to retreat into the City where the Citizens seeming very unwilling to take up Arms against the Princes there was no confusion wanting And the Dowager being to provide against inconveniences both within and without would not have been void of thoughts if Affairs had continued long in that condition especially since Prince Thomaso was already drawn neer the walls and was master of the field and endeavour'd to succour himself by Trenches and by his approaches to come to grapling having environed the Suburbs with Trenches he sent a Troop of Horse toward ill Ponte della Dora to drive away some squadrons of French Horse which were there to guard it but they could not do it for they were kept back and forc'd to retreat by the Artillery of the Porta Palazzo The Prince Cardinall came at this time to the Camp who went to quarter with his Brother and the Governour in the Vallentino a Palace of pleasure within 400 paces of the City upon the left side of the Poe a little above the Capuchins bridge part of the Army quarter'd about this Palace and part quarter'd in the Suburbs between the Poe and the City They then planted two batteries one at the Casetta Verde against the Porta Nova and the other at Albergo from whence they they began to play upon the City
But this was of more terrour then prejudice to the people whom the Assailants did not desire to harm very much but to keep them well inclined to the Princes party Whilst things were carried on thus before and about the City the Princes and Governour found that the Defendants minded onely the safety of the City for the preservation whereof they had abandoned all out places and being neither willing nor able to lie long idle there wasting time more in expectation of popular commotions then in being intent upon taking the City by force they resolved to send Count Galleazzo Trotti with 600 Horse and 600 Foot to take Pontestura who having easily mastered the Town sat down before the Castle whither the French Garrison who at the first appearance of the Enemy had abandoned the Town had retreated And when the Governour of Millain found that a great body of men were sent from Cassalle to relieve it he sent Don Luigi Ponse after Trotti with a good number of Souldiers who coming to Pontestura just when Trotti being gone to encounter the succour which came from Cassalle had repuls'd them began to pursue them which he did to underneath the Walls of Cassalle and in that interim the Castle seeing the relief repuls'd yielded from whence six hundred French march'd out in good order and went to Cassalle Some Treaties of agreement were had whilst the Camp lay before Turin for though the Dowager were assured by her Captains and Officers that she could run no danger there being a competent number of Souldiers in the City able to defend it and by reason of the secure and ready refuge which they had to the Citadel as also of the succours which they might confidently presume would speedily be sent from France yet were it either that she might divide the Princes from the Governour of Millain or that she might allay the fervour of Arms by Treaty she listned to the propositions of agreement which were propounded by Monsignore Caffarelli the Popes Nuncio then Resident with her in the Popes name and they were these That the Princes should acknowledge her to be Guardianess and Regent So as they might have some Towns allowed them for security of their persons and that each of them should Governour of some Province into which Towns or Provinces no Forreigners might be introduced as neither into any other part of the State And that there should no account be made of the League made with France nor that any of the parties should hereafter enter into Leâ—…gue with any Forreign Prince or Potentate without reciprocall agreement These Proposals tended as all men might clearly see to take off the Dowager from adhering to the French to the end that being deprived of so great a stay the Princes Authority by the favour of the people might be greater then the Dowager did now allow it to be The Dowager was aware of this who answered that they should have Towns and Governments and all reasonable advantages allowed them if being reconciled to the King of France who she assured them should very willingly receive them into favour they would order things so as she might have no occasion to fear the Spanish Forces These Proposals being diametrically opposite came to no conclusion for the Princes perceived that as they had endeavoured to separate the Dowager from the King of France that she might be subject to their authority so she by her answer shewing that she understood their ends did endeavour to separate them from the Crown of Spain so to reduce them under her Authority which was maintain'd by the French Forces so as not being able to agree and the Princes and Governour of Millain finding at last that by reason of the good order taken by the Dowager the City made no commotion and that they were there without will or wherewithal to force it they after having stayed there eight days resolved to be gone and to go against such Towns of the State as were neither well provided nor could easily be succour'd The Prince Cardinal departed first and went down the Poe to Chivasso and from thence to Inurea and the Governour of Millain leaving eight Brigades of Foot the Neapoliâ—…an Horse the Dutch Curassiers and Dragoons and four pieces of Artillery with Prince Thomaso under Carlo della Gatta pass'd with the rest of his Army over the Poe at the Capuchins bridge and went to Pontestura and Prince Thomaso with the men that were leâ—…t him went by the bridge of Montcalleri strait towards Villa nova whither being come about break of day with a thousand Horse en croupe he at the very first took a half Moon and seeing the Sun was gotten well up wherefore he could not pursue his intended surprisal he pass'd that day in articling with Count Carlo Cacherano Governour of the Town wherein he strove to perswade the Count that he intended only to keep the State for the Duke unprejudiced by the French Forces But the Governour being firm and not consenting to any thing he could say the Prince ordered an assault to be given the next day two hours before day-break which was done unexpectedly but with such rigour as though the Garrison which were Piedmontese and some French made stout resistance yet the Prince took the Town and made the Governour and Garrison Prisoners The Town was sack'd only the Churches and what was carried thither was preserved The booty was great for the Town was great rich and well provided of all things and the Towns-men not thinking to be so used did not much minde carrying their Goods into the Churches The Prince leaving a Garrison there of 1500 Foot and 3 Troops of Horse under Don Michele Pignarello who was Camp-master went with the rest of his men to joyn with the Governour who was gone to Montcalvo whither being come both at the same time and Iohn di Garray coming thither the next day the Town was taken upon surrender the Captain retiring to the Castle where he intended to make what resistance was possible to be made the which he valiantly did insomuch as the Governour of Millain seeing how obstinate defence was made and being sollicited by the Prince to greater Enterprizes he left Don Luigi Ponse with 2000 Foot and Marquess Caracena with 500 Horse to continue the Siege and taking the rest of his men along with him he went together with the Prince to before Asti. The Commendator Balbiano was Governour of the Town who being placed there by the Dowager appeared to endeavour her service very much but was so careless therein as he was suspected to hold secret intelligence either with the Spaniards whom he had served in the Wars of Flanders or with the Prince whom when the Town was surrendred he served for a Regiment of Piedmontese which was of the Garrison of the City being revolted over to the Prince and the Citizens being either terrified with the sacking of Villa nova or by the revolting of the Garrison or being
given to favour the Princes they declared openly that they would not bear Arms against them so as the Governour not resisting so great a commotion retreated with the other Garrisons into the Citadel and left the City to do what it listed and the Citizens sent the Keys immediately to the Prince who was not well entred the City when the Castle was also surrendred It fared otherwise with the Siege of Montcalvo which held out against Batteries Mines and Assaults before it yielded but when the Captain who was a Frenchman was slain the Souldiers yielded up the Town after eleven days stout Siege This fortunate success encouraged the Prince and the Governour of Millain to undertake the Enterprise of Trino but the Captains of the Aâ—…my were against it fearing the success by reason that it was so strongly munited as it was thought impregnable It was seated in a soil wherein was great store of water and little less then Marish it was extraordinarily well munited and fortified by Duke Charles Emanuel who understood Fortification very well when he took it in the second War against Cassalle it was walled about double and doubly ditch'd the first and most inward wall was very high and strengthned by twenty great Towers upon which 20 pieces of Artillery were placed the second circuit was a very large and high Platform whereupon were eleven half moons and this did not only keep the inward Wall unprejudiced by battery but kept it from being seen by the Enemy Between these two circuits there was a large deep ditch and beyond the outermost another ditch as large and deep Count Rovero was Governour thereof but Monsieur Merâ—…lez was Captain of the Garrison one of the most ancientest French Colonels which had served the Dukes of Savoy and therefore of great esteem amongst the Piedmontese All the Council of War hoping for little good by this did disswade from it but the Prince and Governour of Millain who were much encouraged by their late fortunes feared not being forsaken thereby in this enterprise The Dowager doubted that Asti being taken the Enemies Army would come either upon St. Ia or Trino both which were unfurnished of Garrisons she therefore committed the charge of them to Marquess Villa who went immediately away from Turin with 800 Foot and 1000 select Horse intending to distribute the Foot in those two Tovvns As he came neer St. Ia he understood that Don Ferrante della Monti waited for him upon the way who was sent into those parts by the Governour of Millain with about 500 Dragoons to keep out any relief that might be brought into Trino The Marquess hasted his march desiring to encounter Don Ferrante but he failed of his desire for he was retreated towards le Vertole neer to Crescentino so as the Marquess coming without any opposition to St. Ia he left the 800 Foot there and two Troops of Horse leaving order with the Governour of the Town that he should keep half the Foot for his ovvn defence and should send the other half of the Foot and the two Troops of Horse that very night to Trino and he himself went presently tovvards Livor no and Bianza that he might finde out Don Ferrante but missing him he pass'd over the Dora and came back to Turin The Foot and Horse were kept two days in St. Ia before they vvent to Trino vvherefore Don Ferrante vvho had heard that Villa vvith his Horse vvas pass'd over the Dora made tovvards the Foot and Horse that vvere going to Trino and meeting vvith them in the Forest of Lucidio assaulted them slevv many of them took many prisoners and vvounded many and those Horse vvhich could escape got into thick Woods and those fevv that escaped death got into Trino This happy success being heard in the Camp just as they vvere consulting upon going to Trino made them resolve upon the Enterprise for the haste of sending these supplies did clearly shevv that the Tovvn vvanted Defendants as indeed it did for the danger of Turin had dravvn the flovver of all the Garrisons of those parts to defend that Capital City And the Prince and Governour of Millain taking this present victory as an earnest penny of happy success in this so great Enterprise thought themselves the more obliged not to refuse the invitation which fortune made them going therefore from Asti and passing the Poe at Pontestura they marched to Trino which they resolved to assault on four sides they took up four chief quarters two of Spaniards in one whereof lodged Don Antonio Sottelo Don Luigi di Lincastro and the Marquess of Tavera in the other the Marquess of Caracena and Don Luigi Ponce in the third which was the Italians were quartered Marquess Serra and the Counts of Bolognini and Borromeo in the fourth were the Dutch quartered under Prince Borzo and Colonel Lener and 14 piâ—…des of Cannon being disposed in convenient places for battery they began to play hotly upon the Town and at the same time to make their appreaches and by the diligence of the Pyoneers the approaches were already brought to the bâ—…ink of the ditch over the which they threw two Bridges and the Neapolitans under Marquess Serra had already taken a Mill that was very convenient for the assault which was much desired to be given both by the Commanders and Souldiers at this time Colonel Forâ—…mestre came to the Camp with 1000 Foot and Don Michiele Pignarelli with a Neapolitan Brigade so as being encouraged by these recruits though all things were not yet ready to give assault yet as if good fortune had govern'd all things contrary to all Military reason assault was ordered to be given which they thought it was the more necessary to do for that they heard that Marquess Villa and the Cardinal of Vallette muster'd men every where wherewith they intended to relieve the Town all the Camp-masters and Colonels which were twelve had places appointed them where they were to fall on The Prince the Governour of Miâ—…ain Don Iohn di Garrai and Carlo della Gatta assisted in the ordering of Affairs and the defendants apprehended by these preparations that assault would quickly be given and therefore endeavoured to fire the Bridges which were thrown over the ditches and the other Works which did faciliate the assault they persisted in a resolution to defend themselves grounding their resolutions not so much upon the largeness and deepness of their ditches and the marishness of the ground by which the enemy must pass to give the assault as in the number of their Artillery and yet all the assailants as if they had been assured of Victory not considering these difficulties went all of them to assault the several places allotted them and this they did with such brave courage as having overcome the Ditches and other Fortifications of the first circuit it was not hard for them to enter the City by the second for all the people being imploy'd in defending the outward Fortifications where the
appli'd a Petard to the Gate which being thereby thrown down the Horse entred which waited there to be let in Fontana Captain of the Gate was thought to hold private intelligence with Prince Thomaso as also Amerino Captain of the Swissers who were deputed to defend the Steccado who being corrupted by moneys made no resistance but presently past over to the Princes party for which he was question'd by the Cantons Count Vischio by reason of the great darkness and opposition made by the defendants lost his Guide and his Petard so as not being able to execute his Commission he entred the City by the Bastion Verde by which the Spaniards and Italians also entred the Castle-Gate not being as then opened nor could Colonel Alardo do what he was appointed being stoutly opposed but he entred by the Castle-Gate which was now opened so as before full day the City was reduced into the power of the Prince not any of the Citizens appearing in defence for the Dowager had commanded that upon pain of death none of them should stir out of their doors but when they heard that she was retreated into the Citadel and that the Prince was entred the City they ran out to the streets and Piazzas with unusual expressions of joy and flock'd about the Prince with incredible applause but their congratulations which lasted many hours were not any hindrance to what was necessary for defence for they presently fell to block up the ways which led to the Citadel to keep the City from being from thence assaulted which was diligently observed all the rest of the day at night Lights were put in all the Windows and the Citizens stood with their weapons in their hands together with the Souldiers to defend the streets fearing some sallies out of the Citadel and the Prince made the Rampiers be raised to keep the City from being prejudiced from the Citadel The next day things were better secured by the entrance of the Governour of Millain with the rest of the Army who together with the Prince viewing all parts as well within as without the City by which the City might be entred they munited it with Souldiers and other necessaries To end the work compleat the Victory and to put an end almost to the War there remained the blocking up of the Citadel on the out-side and the keeping it from any succour by continual circumvallations which required not the guarding of above three miles for the Citadel was more then half begirt by the City Five days after the City was taken the French and Piedmontese Army appeared coming from Cuneo who when they heard the sad news of the loss of Turin marched speedily to relieve the Citadel and finding no Trenches to keep them off nor any Forces in the Field to oppose them they secured the Citadel they quartered their men without opposite to the City towards la Porporata and none but the chief Commanders went into the Citadel to kiss the Dowagers hand and to consult of what was to be done The Dowagers affairs begun to better a little by so seasonable a succour and the French began to be much encouraged the Spanish Army was in the City and all the Citizens that were fit to bear Arms were very diligent to defend it moreover the Trenches which were over against the Citadel were in good order and did shelter the City indifferently well from the shot which were made from thence The Marquess of Caracena having assisted therein with no lesse diligence then danger who foreseeing how much the defendants might be damnified by the Garden of the Carmelites which commanded the Trench and streets of the City if they should be possess'd by the Enemy prepossess'd himself thereof and munited it well and put a good Garrison into it and therefore though both the French and Piedmontese who were in the Citadel did much desire to assault the City and to drive the Enemy from thence yet the Cardinal of Vallette opposed it and by his Authority of Supream Command of the French Forces curb'd the general desire yet being overborn by the General order of Longueville and of the other Commanders and for that he would appear to have some hand therein rather then out of his own addiction he consented that 300 of the best men of the French Army should assault la Citta Vecchia under the Marquess Nerestano who accosted the walls and fell on furiously but being stoutly opposed were forc'd to retreat with the loss of many of them amongst which the Marshal Nerestano and the Camp-masters Alincourt and Valiaci together with other officers and gallant Souldiers and with little loss to the assaulted by which as well he as the rest of the Captains having found by experience how much harder it was then they had imagined to recover the City and the Dowager being put to great streights in the Citadel they thought it fit that she should go from thence and should go together with her Court to Susa which was so necessary as it was presently done she went out with an undaunted spirit bearing in her bosom two consolations amongst so many misfortunes the one that if she had been suffer'd to Govern according to her own will she had not fallen into such misfortune the other that the King her brother who had brought her into that condition would doubtlesly bring her out of it at her departure she left the Citadel in charge with the Duke of Longueville who received it as deposited by her in the King of France his name for she confiding but a little upon this occasion in the Piedmontese and in so great perplexity and cross fortune not having Forces sufficient to defend so important a place threatned by so neer and powerful an Army and not having wherewith to fight nor to subsist for above two moneths she thought she could not do better then to put it into the protection of the King her brother being come forth and attended by a competent number of hers she came to Susa where she waited looking in vain where this so great storm would finally fall a treaty of Truce was afterwards introduced between the Abbot Vasques in the Governour of Millain's name and Mousieur d'Argenson on the behalf of the Duke of Longueville which was desired by Longueville not so much for the scarcity of provision in the Citadel as for the precise orders which he received from the King at his departure from Court and which were often after reiterated by which he was enjoyn'd that he should rid his hands as soon as he could of the Wars of Piedmont to the end that they being over he might go into Flanders or Germany but Prince Thomaso was totally against it thinking any whatsoever Truce injurious to his cause and to the whole business and for that he knew for certain that the Duke had orders to rid his hands of the business as soon as he could so as departing with the forces he brought and Vallette's men
being diminished the French Forces grew very weak for there was great scarcity in the Citadel he moreover that he might keep the Governour of Millain from consenting thereunto added that the Truce would be destructive not onely in relation to the Citadel of Turin but to Cassalle it being certain that by the Truce some respit would be given to them both and did further alleadge that the Truce would be prejudicial to the affairs of Flanders Germany and Spain as well as to those of Piedmont by reason of the aforesaid orders given to Longueville to go to some of those parts and that the King of France when he should have respite from the Wars of Piedmont would intend those other Wars the more but the Governour who did not believe that Longueville had any such orders desired to return to Millain and be free from the troubles of Wars and perhaps also being distasted that such a Garrison should not be put into the Citadel when it should be taken as he would have and that so the victory should not appear to be his but anothers he therefore was for listning to the Truce so they chose Deputies to Negotiate the business the Dowager chose Marquess Villa Prince Thomaso chose Count Messerati the Cardinal of Vallette and Duke Longueville chose Mousier d' Argenson and the Governour of Millain chose Abbot Vasques all theâ—…e meeting in Vallentino the Truce was concluded which was to begin on the fourth of August and to end on the twenty fourth of October the conditions to be these That the City and Citadel should remain in the Condition they were at the present with power to either of them to make what Fortification they listed so as that neither of them should advance their works beyond a Line which should be drawn by common consent between the City and the Citadel that the Armies should withdrew into their own Towns and Provinces and should forbear all Hostility that none should go from his own quarters into the others without a pasport that Cassalle should continue in the same condition it was in at the present onely that it might be Lawful for the French to change 600 sick and infirm Foot of the Garrison of the Citadel for as many strong and able men and that it might be lawful to change Prisoners The Truce being thus concluded Arms were forborn The Governour retired to Millian carrying some of his Army along with him leaving some in Piedmont and quartering some of them upon the Confines Prince Thomaso was not onely unsatisfied with this Truce but thought himself thereby injured thinking that the Governour of Millain had abandon'd him when his business was at the fairest and when he was as good as in possession of the Citadel nor were the Emperour and the Infanta of Flanders less displeased thereat then he both of them apprehending that when the affairs of Piedmont should be quieted Longueville would come down with his Forces either into Flanders or Germany so as they complained grievously thereof all three to the Court of Spain which being no less ill satisfied therewith then they feared that when the War should be at an end in Piedmont it would for certain break out in greater fury in Catalognia wherefore the Governor of Millain was very hardly spoken of in that Court and the King of Spain being scandalized both for his ovvn affairs and those of others and the Governour roundly check'd and a strict account required of him for it it was generally thought in Italy that the contention touching the putting a Garrison into the Citadel of Turin had made the Governour of Millain make Truce fearing that it might occasion much strife but the Governour alleadged nothing in his defence but the diminution of his Forces which was occasioned by the many Garrisons which he was necessitated to leave in the Towns which were taken in Piedmont whereby not being able to keep the Field he thought it better to desist with honour from that enterprize by the way of Truce then to do it with shame as he foresaw he must ere long be forc'd to do But the expiration of the Truce shewed how little justifiable this his plea was for though the French Army was recruited with new men during the time of Truce and that no supply was sent to the Spanish Camp yet the Governour of Millain marchâ—…d into the Field with more men then the French did as shall be said But as the Governours plea in his own defence would not bear water so the Emperour and the Infanta's fear of Longuevill's Forces proved vain For those Forces were left behind in Piedmont to the end that that Country might not be unprovided of men and Longueville was sent into Alsatia with onely the Dutch Regiment to succeed Duke Weymer in being General of the French which Weymer then dyed and yet the King of Spain either to resent this action of the Governours or to satisfie Prince Thomaso commanded the Governour that for the future he would be advised by Prince Thomaso The Truce was not well concluded when the King of France and the Dowager were held to be the breakers of it he by her will having brought French into Susa Avigliana and Cavor Wherefore 600 sick men of the Citadel of Turin being by the Articles of the Truce to be changed for as many strong and able men the Governour of Millain would not allow of the change against which the French objected that the reciprocal Articles of the Truce did not oblige one party between themselves they therefore said that the King and Dowager making joyntly one of the parties they might do any thing between themselves without offence to the League and on the contrary they complained that the Truce was broken by both the Princes for that the Prince Cardinal by authority of his pretence had made no less acquisition after the Truce then his brother had done by all his Forces since going without any Forces from Cuneo to the Maritime parts he had obtained Villa Franca and the haven thereof by voluntary surrender as also the Fort S. Sospiro and the City and County of Nice where he was received by the people with much applause and that driving out the Governour of that Castle which by art and scituation was impregnable he soon after forc'd the Castle to surrender And that all the people had sworn fealty to him as to the Dukes Guardian which was verily a great acquisition that City Castle and Haven being one of the chief keys of Piedmont upon which the French had alwayes an eye and were alwayes intent upon the recovery thereof as part of Provence which of ancient right did belong to the Crown of France and this purpose 4000 Foot were at that time sent from Provence under that Governour and the Kings Fleet kept hovering upon those Seas but that the Prince Cardinal had subverted these designes who without Arms or any opposition by the bare authority of his presence and
good that had succeded not attributing it to the Kings forces but to the love of the people of Piedmont not to the Governours valour or Counsels but to their own alleadging for proof thereof what great difficulties he met with before Vercelli when he attempted it without them on the contrary the Governour who came not short of them either in counsel or Military valour alleadged that the peoples affection would have been curb'd and kept back by the Dowager without the assistance of the Kings forces just as befel the Prince Cardinal when being entred into Piedmont he would try what the Authority of a Prince of the blood unarmed could do and when the Princes came first with a powerful Army before the Walls of Turin the Dowagers Authority was such as she did so hold the people within bounds as none durst ever speak much less declare themselves in favour of the Princes or raise any sedition so as to let them see that he was able to undertake and to effect great enterprizes without them he was desirous to apply himself to this wherein the Princes not having any thing to do the business might be acknowledged to be wholly his and consequently the honour which he undoubtedly expected from the happy success thereof might belong wholly to him and not be communicated to any others private and publick interests being thus joyned the Governour having all things in readiness sent Carlo Della Gatta general of the Neapolitan Horse at unawares to preoccupate the ways that led to Cassalle to keep the Monferrat Souldiers who were dispers'd abroad in that State from entring thereinto and he sent the Count di Monte-Castello after Gatta to take L'occimiano both which having observed their Orders they appeared on Palm sunday the year 1640 before that City and took the Town St. Giorgio without fighting which had a Garrison in it only of 40 Souldiers under a French Captain and the Governour being recruâ—…ed with new men from Germany and Naples came thither with the whole Army the next Easâ—… day his Army consisted of 12000 Foot and 5000 Horse to which soon after were added 2200 Foot come from Spain The Garrison of the place did not exceed 1200 Foot and 300 Horse The French Army which was that that could only â—…lieve it being very weak was thought unable so much as to attempt it so as the Governour made himself sure of Victory To this was added the intelligence which was said to be held between the Governour and some of the chief of the Town not without the Dowagers knowledge as was thought who was not well satisfied with the French Garrison being come within sight of the City he thought to fall to work to the end that when he should have taken the City as he thought he should eâ—…sily do he might quarter his Army more commodiously under covert and by a short line to be drawn without the Citadel he thought to save the time and labour of making large Trenches as his predecessors had done when they were to lodge their Army in the Campagnia he therefore made only two quarters the one at the foot of the Hill and the other upon the Plain towards Frassinero two good miles distant one from the other To the latter whither he sent above 1000 Horse under Carlo della Gatta and 400 Foot under the Camp-masters Serra Trotto and Gliglino was added 900 Swissers that of the Hill was divided into two bodies The Marquess of Carâ—…ena who succeeded Don Francisco di Selva in being General of the Horse commanded the one and Don Lewis di Lincastro the other and the Governour who lodged in one of them commanded them both here were eight thousand Foot and four thousand Horse they then began their approache against the City which was besieged on three sides on two between the Citadel and the Castle and on the third neer the Poe which they called Degli Italiani intrusted to Marquesse Serra and they also took a certain House called la Fornace which proved very commodious for the Siege but fortune which would deriâ—…e â—…ssured hopes of the Governour and his great Forces appeared very little favourable to him from the very beginning for the great rains which fell for many days together were of great prejudice to him not only in the commencement of his works by which he was to make his approaches but in preserving those which wee already made for it destroy'd them all and the water having sunk down the ways had also made the fields unmanagable so as the two quarters which were far one from the other could not communicate together To these hinderances was added many fierce sallies which though they were with equal fierceness repuls'd they did not a little disturb the Works and hinder the Work-men Whilst the Army did thus little good expecting fairer weather the Governour that the Souldiers might not be idle sent Thomaso Alardo with his Regiment of Dragoons and 400 Foot to take Resignano who having at first taken the out-works had also begun a Mine which when it was finished he gave fire unto and did thereby much good for throwing as much Wall as sufficed to give an assault he went thereunto but unfortunately for some of the Souldiers would not fight and others were crush'd by many Gabbions of earth which fell from the earth-work of the Wall that was blown up falling down when they hasted to get upon the breach those who were forwardest in advancing were repuls'd with the death of the valiantest amongst them and many Spanish Captains were wounded and Toby Palavicino who fought valiantly though they were forsaken by their Souldiers This mean while it was given out as it proved true afterwards that Harcourt taking the greatest number of the French Souldiers that he could out of the Towns of Piedmont accompanied by Marquess Villa who brought 1500 Horse with him and by the Marquess Pianezza who brought 2000 Piedmontese Foot to whom also some Montferrians were gorten had got together a body way of an army with which he betook himself to bring succous by the of Villanuova and that he brought with him twelve pieces of Cannon and some Carriages of Victuals and Munition The more unexpected this news was to the Governour they made the greater impression in him calling therefore a Counsel of War it was consulted whether they should march out against the enemy and fight him in the open field or rise from before Cassalle and go speedily to Turin giving out that the business of Cassalle was but a feigned attempt to draw the enemy thither so to keep up the Souldiers reputation The great advantage in number of Souldiers far more valiant then the enemy who were said to be most of them Vagabonds driven from their houses by Famine and War made for the first opinion that therefore Victory was not to be doubted if they should come to battle and that body of men being destroyed wherein were all the Forces which the enemy could
the wisest of Reason the Governour who thought he had ventured too much already thought rather how to save his men that were not yet routed then to expose them to further hazard out of these respects the Governour chose neither to reassume the enterprize nor to do what was thought by many of the Commanders would prove successful in the siege of Cassalle who grounded their reasons upon the coming in of many men into Cassalle and but little victuals so as it must necessarily be brought soon to surrender these advises were therefore far differing from the Governours genius who was cautious in all his actions and too much cowed in this the quarters under the hill fared otherwise where there was no fighting nor battel but downright plunder on the conquerours side and running away on the conquered the conquerours found the Enemies quarters almost void of men but full of booty especially that of the Governour wherein were not only great store of Silver-plate and of other moveables belonging to the Governour and so many other Lords and Commanders that lodged there but also monies which were to be used in the enterprize which all fell into the hands of the French so as the Souldiers who were greedy of handling money loved not to handle Iron especially not having to employ it for all the Enemies were fled the Governours Cabinet was also Sack'd wherein many secrets were found and amongst the rest the of King Spains Cypher with all writings of account some of those that fled from hence got safe into Pontestura not being pursued by any but many of those very many which fled to the Bridge neer Margherita over the Poe were drowned for they crouded so fast one upon another as they fell by the sides of the Bridge into the River and the great number of men and cattle and some carriages did so overload the bridge as one of the Boats whereon it was built sank and so great was the number as well of men as cattel and carriages that were there drowned as they fil'd up the vacancy of the Bridge and those who were not yet past over saved themselves by passing upon the dead Carcasses there were not above a thousand of the Souldiers slain in the battel 2000 were wounded and taken prisoners amongst which some of the chiefest of the Army those who perished in the Poe were most of them victuallers and the poorer sort of people who follow after the camp Harcourt sent generously all the Governours servant who remained prisoners to their Master and Marquess Villa redeemed all those that belonged to Marquess Caracena and to Vasques and sent them to their Masters the writings also were sent back for some sleight rewards disbursed to those that had them in custody Harcourt being victorious by so happy and so important a relief to a place of such concernment with a number so far inferiour to those that were fortified within their works did not forget himself with this happy success but having scarcely refresh'd his men and furnish'd the Citadel with some Victuals he went two days after the victory towards Turin and being desirous to purchase yet more glory he thought he should have done nothing unless he should also set the Citadel of Turin at liberty and put the Dowager into the condition she was in as she did earnestly request the King his Agents and Commanders and as the King had strictly ordered his Commanders this could not be done without the perfect recovery of the Citadel of Turin whereunto he couragiously betook himself and whereunto he was much enheartned by the smallness of the Garrison that remained in the City from whence the Governour had sent for a good part to before Cassalle and Prince Thomaso had sent away 800 Horse and he thought that but small succours would be brought from without for he held for certain that the Governour from whom succour could only be expected would not hazard the remainder of his men after having been so baffled and beaten in the relief of Turin to the so great prejudice of the State of Millain he moreover was put in greater hopes by the scarcity as well of Victuals as of Warlike provisions which he had learned by discourse was in that City for he calculated that the French Spanish and Piedmontese which one after another had been fed in that City must have consumed all the Victuals that were there and the Poe being block'd up all the Winter on the one side by Chiavazzo on the other side by Carmagnuola he thought it impossible it could be furnished by that river and much less by land by reason of the great scarcity of Cattel that was in those parts he thought there was greater want of Warlike provisions by reason of the great profusion which necessarily must have been made thereof the preceding Winter in the many Mines Batteries Assaults and Fights between the City and the Citadel he also built much upon the Citizens good will not so much out of the inclination which many of them might privately have unto the Dowager as of the meaner sort of people who living upon their handy work which was fed by continual concourse and traffick they could not hold out long the Gates of the City being shut up so as it was thought impossible that they should hold out a siege long all which things though they had an appearance of truth yet the sequel shewed that they were badly calculated for none of them cooperated to that Victory which was thought so sure for the City as was afterwards known was provided with victuals more then needed and as for warlike provision which was that which they wanted most they wanted not witty new inventions whereby they got enough thereof they might want Defendants to free the City from siege but not to defend it the people and all the Citizens kept always constant in defence of the City and stuck close to the Prince and what made most for the main affair the Governour of Millain contrary to Harcourts supposal appeared within a few days with a powerful Army before the City ready to relieve it for having a little digested the misfortune at Cassalle he feared as it fell out that the Enemy would forthwith come before Turin and knowing how weak the Garrison was and what scarcity of Warlike provision there was in the City he immediately sent 1500 Souldiers thither part Italians under Marquess Sirra and Vercelline Viscount and part Burgondians under the Baron di Vattevilla all of them choice and Veteran Souldiers to which about 4000 others of several nations being added which remained under Bolognino in defence of the City they amounted to well neer 5500 Foot who were all to obey Don Antonio Sotelo General of the Artillery of the State of Millain who was sent thither with supream authority to command all the King of Spains Forces many loads of powder and other warlike tackling were added to this succour the Governour Writ fervently to the
accomplishment of the enterprise if it had been entirely executed as the Prince advised He sent Don Carlo della Gatta with a good number of Horse and with about 4000 Foot to Collegno to the end that quartering and fortifying himself there he should do what the whole Camp was to have done if it had gone thither which was to block up all the avenues from succour and victuals Gatta past succesfully on with his men to the place appointed by the way of Mille Fiori though a thousand Horse went coasting along by him which came out of the line of Circumvolution For the Prince sallying at the same time out of the City had faln upon the Enemies quarters toward the Dora and the Governour was gone to give a feigned Allarme to Vallentino and the Garrison of Cheri being recruited by the Trades-men had at the same time assaulted the fortifications which were above the Capuchins So as the French being diverted into many parts could not much impede Gatta in his passage who coming to Collegno drove out the French Garrisen and being master thereof began immediately to fortifie it better The Governour also instead of taking Grugliaseo look Bianesco which stands upon another way which leads from Pinarvolo but a little lower then Graliasco and consequently neerer the quarters of Montcalleri by which the besieging Camp was somewhat more streightned and almost as much besieged as the City The taking of Collegno caused much jealousie in Harcourt who apprehended that his Trenches might rather be assaulted on that side then elsewhere and they being weaker then the rest he put stronger Garrisons into them and fortified them better towards Collegno the same day that Gâ—…ta came to Collegno he met with a fair occasion of intercepting a great conduct of Victuals as he did and of routing a Regiment of the Dowagers which served for a Convoy thereunto he also defeated 500 Horse and 500 Foot of Count Verrua's which were coming from Susa to the Camp and either slew almost all of them or took them Prisoners except the Count who got safe with some Horse to the Camp Vincenzo della Marra a Neopolitan Gentleman took also 60 load of Corn and utterly defeated the Convoy and the Governour having sent the Horse of his quarters towards Millefiori had a gallant Skirmish with the Enemy where the Corps de guard which were therein was totally put to the sword at the same time or a little before the French having thrown a Bridge over the Dora between the Meadows called Vanchiglia and the New-Park which made very much for Communication between the quarters of the Burgo and of the Capuchins with those beyond the Dora the Prince took a fancy to try whether he could deprive the enemy or no of that conveniency and free the City of the inconvenience which might result by the communication of those quarters by means of that Bridge he to this purpose Sallied out by night very strong both in Horse and Foot and though he cut the Ropes in sunder which fastned the bridge on this side yet the enemy easily mended it and put it into it's former condition and made some fortifications for the safety thereof the Prince being desirous to attempt the same again he sent Don Mauritio with 300 Horse thither and Marquess Serra with two squadrons of Foot one Spanish one Italians these sent Fra. Iovan Pallavicino with some Foot to discover the Bridge who finding it newly fortified whilest some sleight Skirmishes past between him and the Enemy they might see five companies of Horse come from the Borgo and advance towards them to cut them off from joyning with their companions against which Don Mauritio's Cavalry advancing Fra. Iovanni had conveniency to withdraw to a place of Safety and incorporated himself with Serra who went not onely to shelter Don Mauritio's Cavalry with his squadrons of Musketiers but to fall upon the enemies Horse which were forced with much loss to face about and get into a place of safety and though some other squadrons of Horse came from Vallentino to relieve him yet they came not time enough for they were de ained by the Cannon which played from the works of the City and by musket-shot which poured down from the Walls but the Bridge not being ruined neither by this second attempt the Prince threw another Bridge over the same River that he might pass over to the other shore when he pleased and receive any succour that might come by that way a difficult business for all the Bank beyond the River was defended by a Battery levell'd against the Mills but the knowledge that Marquess Villa who together with Pianezza was quartered there was gone with most part of the Piedmontese Horse elsewhere and the Enterprise being intended at the third hour of the Sun when the night Guards being relieved grow remiss encouraged them to the Enterprise which was wholly given to Bâ—…lognino who going forth with Horse and Foot threw over the Bridge with little loss over which the Foot pass'd the next day part of them were sent towards the Park against some Foot which guarded a Redout which was over the against the old broken bridge of the Park which Redout being assaulted and the Defendants cut in peices was taken the other part went to assault a body of men who guarded a half Cannon placed over against the new bridge who being routed the half Cannon fell into the assailants hands which they began to draw towards the Dora but Pianezza hearing thereof strove to repair the loss He therefore headed two squadrons of French Horse which were in that place and the ordinary Troop and spur'd on a pace to assault the Enemies Horse and skirmishing fiercely with them the half Cannon and those that carried it away put to flight the Foot with some of the Horse past back over the Dora the rest were chased by Pianezza towards the Park yet were the takers but little prejudiced for the Enemy having in the heat of the pursuit left the half Cannon behind them they immediately took it again and brought it to the banks of the Dora where it was under good shelter and being impossible to be recovered it was carried in triumph into the City But the French were as well damnified by the Garrison within the City as by the Army without for together with the continual pressure of victuals the Garrison of Collegno having ransack'd the Country as far as Pinarvolo had spoiled the mils which were not far from that Town and put the Town in such a terrour as it kept the Gates shut for many dayes And Gatta going with 1000 Horse afterwards into those parts fell upon St. Secondo a Town neer Pinarvolo where he kill'd 200 Dragoons and took their Captain Prisoner The Prince Cardinals Horse likewise which were sent as hath been said to the Spanish Camp being come from Beinesco under Count Broglio fell upon Rivalta cut the Garrison in pieces and made themselves Masters of
joyn with him in excluding the Spaniards and he was almost certain that the Governour to shun greater inconveniencies would give way that the Citadel should rather remain in his hands then in those of the French The Commendator Pasâ—…ro one of much experience and in great authority with the Prince was cry'd up for the Author of these counsels which being divulged about the Court were approved of by the Piedmontese nobles as those who being naturally more inclined to the French then to the Spaniards apprehended that to fall under the Spanish Empire was the worst of evils that could befall them They therefore thought that to keep from that misfortune they had best embrace any thing how slender so ever and expect better fortune The Prince being oppress'd by the nearness and by the greatness of the danger which though it was foreseen when a far off yet was it never so inevitable nor formidable as now Being therefore resolved to do all that was possible he sent a Letter to the Governour on the seventh of Iuly wherein he signified unto him that he could hold out no longer and that if he were not relieved within four dayes at the furthest he would without more a doe accept of the French offers and would surrender the City Which Letter was very unfortunate for the Prince and for the business in order to the relief and to the raising of the siege was the ruine of the common affairs did overthrow the Princes cause and on the contrary raised the French Army out of the extream precipice and danger whereinto it was more then manifestly brought The City was not effectually in so great streights as the Prince would fain have made it been believed to be for it had great store of Corn nor did it want grist as before that default being much supply'd by hand-mills which were daily made And though in conforminy to what the Prince had writ the Governour was also informed by Don Antonio Sotelo of the aforesaid wants who though he was chief of the Kings men and affairs that were handled in the City had upon many occasions appeared apâ—…e to please the Prince then careful of the Kings concernment yet the Governour had received contrary intelligence from other Captains and in particular from Marquess Serra who looking more narrowly into affairs knew that the City might hold out longer and woe his mind freely to the Governour and did assure him that there were those who had offer'd to maintain the City with bread for two moneths at no exorbitant rates Which offers the Prince refused as thinking them impossible to be performed and though there was more want of powder then of bread yet it was found that the City held out and made stout sallies upon the Enemies quarters twenty days after the eleventh of Iuly and yet had received no recruit in powder and the danger of the French succour which was said to be very neer proved vain for La Gatta being stronger in Collegno then the relievers who were not above 4000 Foot and some Horse it was impossible for to pass that way or to force the Garrison The Governour seeing himself taken off from continuing his designes and bereft of the victory which he so longed after and was neer getting by the Princes so precise pressures and resolute proâ—…estations he was much astonished and was the more confused for that by letters which he received at the same time he was informed as hath been said that the City was in a far different condition from what it was represented to be in by the Prince so as suspecting the Princes pressures must needs ayme at some hidden end amongst many things which he thought upon at last he light upon one or two either that the Prince had closed with the French or was upon agreeing with them And that therefore that he might the better honest his surrounding of the Town he put him upon the poynt of speedy relief that so he might provide for himself abandon the King of Spain and bâ—…ake himself to the King of France or else that he would revive his claim to putting of a Garrison into the Citadel The Governour had alwayes proceeded so reservedly with the Princes as without either assuring them of his intent or making them despair he had still held them in expectation that they should be pleased and they were always confident to have what they pretended unto either with his will or against it wherefore he was forc'd to vary his determination in the Enterprise though it proceeded on very successfully and to put the certainty of Victory upon the uncertain chance of a Dye He therefore began greatly to doubt what peradventure was true he knew no better way how to avoid this exigency then by feeling Paseroe's Pulse with offering him six thousand Pistols to procure the Prince to delay his expectation of succour for fifteen days to the end that he might the better attend the keeping out of that relief which was expected by the enemy from France hoping nay firmly believing that if that succour could be kept out the Siege would be raised before the desired time of delay should be expired and that by this means he should not need adventure his Forces in relieving the City The care of this was committed to Marquess Serra who was chiefly trusted by the Governour in carrying on this Siege but this Negotiation not being to be ended so soon by reason of the difficulty of giving and of receiving advertisement and for that it becomes those that negotiate in such affairs to wait the conjuncture of times the eleventh day being come before the Negotiation was ended the Governour who had precise Orders from the King not to give the Prince any occasion of foregoing his party he suffer'd himself to be pul'd on by necessity and by the Prince his inclinations as one doth sometimes who rides an unruly horse and resolved to please him he therefore agreed upon the doing of it in this manner The Governour was to go from his quarters of Montcalleri and Gatta from his of Collegno upon the break of day on the eleventh day upon the sign being given by certain fires and should fall upon the enemies Trenches Gatta was to assault those which were between the Porporata and a certain Channel which is called Martinetto and the Governour those which do terminate on the banks of Poe neer Valentino that the same night 1000 Horse should be sent to the Prince by a Foord over the Poe which being joyned to his Horse might enable the Prince to sally strongly out of the City that same night and face the enemies Horse The Prince was to go with this recruit of Horse and with the Spaniards which were with him towards Valentino to facilitate the Governours entrance on the innerside and to the end that these three which were the chief actions might succeed the better the Governour was to place eight piece of Cannon upon the hills beyond
the Poe and to play therewith upon the tops of the Trenches and drive the enemy from thence and so facilitate the assault that was to be given on that side Divers provisions also were made to the same purpose thus The Dragoons and Croats were to be sent to scoure along the other parts of the Trenches to keep them in aw with feigned assaults and intent upon defending themselves Don Silvio of Savoy was to advance towards la Stura with the Horse that were without and was to fall upon the Quarters beyond the Dora or at least to seem as if he would do so The Mountainers beyond the Poe were to assault the Forts upon the Capuchins Hills with the Horse which were of the Garrison of Cheri These three diversions were to be made at one and the same time to the end that the besiegers being assaulted on these three sides might not come to assist the Trenches which were to be assaulted by the Governour and Gatta things being thus ordered an accident hapned which made the Governour alter the hour appointed for the assault he heard that the succour from France was come to Giavenna a Town five miles from Collegno and searing that if Gatta should go to give the assault by break of day he might run danger of being fallen upon by the French who were the Convoy for the succour on the back he ordered him to forbear falling on till noon when if the French should not move he should and according to Orders should give the assault but if the French should be already moved he should keep within his quarters till he should receive new Orders Gatta heard by his Scouts that the French would not move that day whereof he advertised the Governour and being come four hours before Sun-set to the Trenches he fell couragiously upon them with 4000 Foot and 2000 Horse his first assault was bravely received and at last he was repuls'd and had some of his men slain amongst which Camp-master Emilio Ghiglino la Motta who was in defence of that part with his Regiment discharg'd the part of a valiant Souldier and judicious Commander but coming with more vigour to a second assault the Foot scaled the Trenches and making way for the Horse the Horse and Foot joyntly entered who had they been more considerate this very action had freed the City for the breach which was made being made good by Garrisons and Fortifications the Line was open and at the disposal of the Governour who without forcing the Trenches at Valentino might have entred by this breach and have destroyed the besiegers and broken the line of circumvolution and if he had not resolved to put himself to this hazard by keeping that breach in his possession he might have sent what succours he had pleased into Turin so as the besiegers losing their hopes of the Siege would have risen of themselves and have given the business over but whilst Gatta when he had broke into the Trenches ran with his Horse towards the City according to his Orders received from the Governour to joyn with the Prince and cared not to guard the breach which he had made and whilst some of the Foot that were entred fell to plunder the enemies Huts and Pavilions and other some to pursue in disorder those that fled the French who were driven from desending the Trenches had time to get under the shelter of the Artillery of the Citadel and to rally and re-order themselves and being assisted by many others who were come from other parts of the line to help here they made a good body and turn'd upon the enemy who were in disorder and busie in plundering whereof they slew and wounded many and it hapned that Don Michele Pignatello Captain of the Rere who entred therewith when those that were entred before were ill handled by the French was assaulted as he would have defended himself and though he resisted stoutly yet having no Horse for they were all gone towards the City he found he could not well keep the field so spying a little Fort not far off between the City and the line of circumvolution he entred thereinto with the best of his men thinking to defend himself there but the Fort not being able to receive so many men those who got in resisted as long as their powder lasted and afterwards betook themselves to their Pikes but the defendants valour was overpower'd by the multitude of French who still encreasing in numbers took the Fort and put all the defendants to the sword except Pignatello and some Officers who were taken prisoners what with these and some others that were amongst the Tents 500 of the Spanish Army were slain but not without revenge for many more French perished amongst which two Camp-marshals twelve Lieutenants four Captains and seven Officers and Colonel St. Andrea was taken prisoner The worst that befel the besieged was that the French making use of the errour committed by the relievers presently made up the breach of the Trench which Gatta had abandoned and kept out 70 load of powder part whereof fell into the hands of the Enemy and part was carried to Collegno The Prince had no notice given him that the hour of assault was altered for the shortness of time and difficulty of giving advertisement could not permit it he therefore waited all that night in Arms with his men expecting an assault should be given at break of day and that the re-inforcement of Horse by Vanchiglia should appear he continued in this posture till noon but failing at last of his so long expectation and not expecting that any thing that had been promised should be performed he much unwillingly retreaed to the City and dismis'd his men who were very weary that they might repose themselves after their long watching and pâ—…ins which they had taken the preceding right when not many hours after he heard of the assault given by Gatta and not long aâ—…ter he might see the Souldiers appear victorious who brought him certain news of the succours being entred wherefore he suddenly summon'd all his Souldiers to their Ensigns and though he had not above 300 Horse with him he notwithstanding resolved to go towards Valentino to facilitate the Governours entry on that side according to agreement he took Tavora's and Serra's Brigades along with him and the Burgondian Souldiers and advancing with his Cavalry towards the Trenches be took the hedge which incompassed the Fort which shelters the way that comes from Montcalleri and Pioppi he sent others to get ground upon the Fort which defends Valentino towards the City and a number of Ciâ—…izens who went out with the Prince joyning with some of Serra's men took a redoubt first and then got in even to the Palace of Valentino which they took and plundred Gatta at this time joyned with the Prince together with 2000 Horse which were entred before so as being thus strongly recruired he advanced towards the Trenches which were then assaulted by
which were made they provided sufficiently for Grist The Governour agreed with the Prince to send him 200 load of Ammunition at a certain hour of night which was to be conducted by Don Vincenzo Gonzaga accompanied by a good body of Horse which was to bring the supply to Motta's quarter whither the Prince was to send Horse to receive it but neither did this design prosper for the nights being very short and Gonzaga being to foord over la Stura and la Dora after he had foorded over the Poe before he could come to the place appointed he knew he could not get thither before the Sun would be up so as perceiving day break a little after he had gotten over the Poe and fearing lest he might be met by the way he returned back This night the Prince was come in his own person out of the City to receive so necessary and so desired a recruit and with him was Don Antonio Sottelo with all the Horse back'd by Marquess Serra with Foot and being come to the place appointed he was discovered and assaulted by the Enemies Horse The Prince withstood the assault manfully and after a sore contest repuls'd the Enemy wherein la Serra behaved himself gallantly who sheltering the Horse with his Musketiers afforded them conveniency of forcing the assailants to wheel about who being pursued left above 200 of their men behind them and five Captains wounded not above ten of the Prince his Forces being left behind amongst which a Dutch Captain who being stript was to the admiration oâ—… all men found to be a woman who having always kept company amongst Souldiers in mans habit was never known to be what she was but alway conversing like a man and fighting as valiantly as any man was in a few years gotten from being a Foot Souldier to be a Captain of Horse when she was taken her life was offer'd her if she would demand it but she scorning so low a behaviour chose rather with an undaunted spirit and high words to die honourably then to live a life which she should have obtained unworthily The day beginning to clear and the Prince seeing no Ammunition appear he ordered a retreat which was orderly and gallantly made even in the face of the Enemy though not without much grief for not being succoured by their long expected Ammunition but ere long the besieged were provided of Powder and all things necessary for defence by an unusual and never before practised or known way convey'd with safety and speed from the Camp to the City Commerce being block'd up as hath been often said between the Camp and the City so as there was great trouble of giving and receiving advice upon reciprocal occurrences and necessities a certain invention was found out by a hollow Bullet whereinto Letters were put and the hole stop'd up with a stopple made of a piece of Wire which being put into a piece of Artillery was shot from the Camp into the City and from the City into the Camp the sign being formerly given by a great smoak to them who were to receive it that they might watch where the Bullet fell by this means the Prince and Governour conversed freely such conveyance being to be sent hourly which were afterwards by way of mockery called flying Posts and as it is not hard to add to things which have been formerly found to succeed well this lucky and useful invention was improved in the conveying of Ammunition for War in bigger Bullets capable of fifteen pound weight of Powder which being more carefully squeezed together and put into a Mortar-piece were by the force of fire blown into the City over the Heads and Trenches of the besiegers who were very angry thereat and finally this invention served to furnish the City with Salt-peter and with Salt for want whereof it suffer'd much especially since men being glad for want of other meat to eat the flesh of horses this food eaten without Salt caused much sickness and mortality in the City above a thousand of these Balls or Bullets were thrown into the City which furnished the besieged with above 15000 pound weight of Powder Thus did the besieged behave themselves sparing their Victuals by parcimony and encreasing their Grist by Hand-mills and provided for their defence by this new device of flying Bullets comforting themselves with hopes of being one day freed from so many afflictions amongst these adventures it fell out that Monsieur d' Argenson and Monsieur di Govone who was Governour of the Citadel as they went from the Camp to Pinarvolo were taken prisoners by two Troops of Horse carried to Cheri and were by order from the Governour sent to Millain Argenson was President of the Senate at Grenoble a Gown-man but very well credited in Affairs both of Peace and War and of such authority as little of any moment was done without his approbation not only in the Camp but neither in all Piedmont The Prince and Governour were very well pleased with the taking of these two Gentlemen for having it in their thoughts to surprize the Citadel which was but weakly garrison'd a good part of the Gâ—…rison being drawn out and placed as hath been said in guarding 〈◊〉 â—…ard Line they thought that the Citadel would be the more eaâ—… 〈◊〉 now that it wanted a Governour and now the competition 〈◊〉 â—…he Garrison which had formerly been the occasion of all the scandal and of the ill Government of the present War and which as it were spoil'd and disordered all the common designs could be no longer an obstacle for the Prince having upon this occasion desired the Governour that he would give over his pretentions The Governour who saw all things in so desperate and ruinous a case was better content that it should fall into the Prince his hands then into those of the French and resolved at last though too late to please the Prince therein but this too late remedy served but little to the expiring enterprise The Prince when he had obtain'd his desire said for what reason it is not known that it was not now time to make the inâ—…ended attempt which made the Governour interpret the proposed enterprise in a sinister sence as if the Prince verily believing that he should have his desire denied had intended to take some fair pretence of concluding the treaty of agreement with the French which was never yet laid down so the design of surprizing the Citadel vanish'd diffidence and mis-understandings did daily encrease all was full of jealousie which discomposed all Negotiations Yet the Governour took no notice of any thing by reason of the precise Orders which he had from the King he continually provided the Prince with all things necessary and particularly with Powder though not without great expence he listned willingly to any thing that the Prince propounded touching the relief of the City but he interposed such difficulties in all attempts as retarded the execution till the occasion was
did at this time also run great hazard of his life being shot with a musket-bullet thorow the brims of his hat and thorow the lock of his hair and yet having rid his hands of Serra he hasted to recover the Bridge whither at the same time came also Viscount Turenna Plessis Pralin the Dowagers two Generals Count Tonniere and the chiefest of the Camp from several places who presently recovered the little Forts and when it was cleer day the Assailants being plaid upon by the Cannon from the Capuchins Covent the Prince after a long and stout resistance got gallantly out of the Conflict and retreated with his men towards the City having left behind him about 250 of his men whereof some were slain some taken and having slain as many of the Enemy Thus the attempt which was so orderly so vigorously and so hopefully made by the Prince vanish'd But the Prince not at all dismay'd by this unfortunate success quitted not the Enterprise he invited the Governour to make the same attempt the next night either after the same manner or how the Governour should otherwise please but he foreseeing the unlikelyhood of the attempt was further from it then before wherefore the Prince not having received an answer sutable to his mind seeing no hope of succour but that his condition grew daily worse to keep himself from being reduced to the utmost extremity resolved not to defer surrendring the Town any longer but yielded it up at last upon these Conditions That on the 22. of September the Prince should put the City into Count Hancourt's hands who was to receive it in the King of France his Name who would re establish it in the Regency of the Lady his Sister under the Sovereignty of her Son the Duke of Savoy That the Prince should be permitted to go whither he would and That it should be at the Infanta's will either to tarry or go out of the City and follow the Prince That the Spanish Garrison might have leave to return to the Governours Camp That the City should enjoy her Priviledges and That Justice would be therein administred as formerly in the Dukes Name That the Citizens should peacefully enjoy their Goods and Fortunes and That Hostages should be reciprocally given for the performance of what was agreed upon Nothing was concluded touching the differences depending between the Dowager and the Princes notwithstanding that during the Siege it was trâ—…ated on by the Marquesses of Pianezza and Villa the Dowagers Lieutenant-General in Piedmont and Abbot Mondino General Gunsiero and by Count Muzane in the Names of Prince Thomaso and of the Cardinal Nor was there any mention of the Princes their adherence to the Crown of France But three moneths were appointed for the discussing and concluding of these things Cardinal Richelieu seemed not to be any ways satisfied with this Agreement when he heard thereof being desirous that Harcourt should never have conseted that the Prince should have had his liberty without obliging himself to joyn with the King of France his party But Harcourt were it either that he found his Army much weakned or that he was transported with the greediness of Victory or that as a Prince of Noble descent he commiserated the misfortune of a Prince as highly descended and with truly generous and singular moderation he thought it greater glory to use a mean in Victory then to triumph fully after the dangers and troubles which he had undergone in this Siege he shun'd delay and deferred the discussion of this point which peradventure was of more importance for his Kings Affairs till another time The Articles being concluded such abundance of rain fell as the Rivers overflowed the Campagnia and hindred commerce so as the delivering of the City was necessarily defer'd for two days but it was resigned on the 24 of September four moneths and fourteen dayes after the fiege was begun The Prince march'd out of the City if not gloriously yet worthy of praise being rather content to let fall so principal a part of his pretentions then to dispute it further to the manifest danger of his State and of the Principality of his house it being certain and afterwards confest by the Prince himself that though he might often have taken the Citadel he cared not to do it left as it was very probable it might fall into the hands of others whereby the exclusion of the Duke his Nephew and of his whole Family might ensue the Infantas his sisters went along with their brother who though they were very much desited by the Citizens and by the Nobles of Piedmont as also by the French and particularly by Harcourt to tarry in the City with profers and promises to be honourably treated yet they would as they had still hitherto done follow the Prince in his Fortune almost all the Nobles that were in Turin and an infinite number of Citizens accompanied the Prince when he went out witnessing the like obsequiousness and constant devotion towards him at his departure as they had done during the siege He went that night to Rivoli and the next day to Inurea where he intended to reside The Spanish Garrison went to the Governour to Cheri he being retreated thither with his men from the hills who parted soon from thence to Asti resolving to make a Magazine of Arms there and he quartered his Horse and part of his Foot in the parts about Montferrat to refresh themselves after their sufferings in the siege Many of the French Nobility went into France and part of the Souldiery were distributed in the Towns near Piedmont and part kept in Turin whereof some few Horse and Foot were sent to re-inforce Cassale The City of Turin remained under Harcourts Government who after having governed it two moneths with much equity moderation and satisfaction to the people resigned it over to the Dowager who coming from Savoy into Piedmont made her solemn entry into Turin on the 18. of November where she was received not onely with triumphant Arches and new Gates of Stone made in the Walls but with unspeakable and universal applause of the People who had not forgot the clemency and benignity of her Regency A true example of the instability of popular affection which feeding alwayes upon novelty are as exactly cloyed with the present Governours as ready to embrace new ones nor was the Dowager wanting to her self upon this occasion she received them all graciously and as if she had forgotten all that was past she conferr'd her favours indifferently upon them all The first thing she did after her return was to abolish the Decree of the Senate which was made in favour of the Princes their Regency alleadging that it was extorted contrary to all right and reason by the violence of the Spanish Forces and the Cesarean Decrees were also declared null as repugnant to the Sovereignty of the house of Savoy which was never wont to receive Laws in the like case from the Cesarean
angred not only the French Agents and Commanders in Piedmont but also the Court at Paris which being held on by the long hope and desire of seeing a Prince appear as a Trophy of the Kings Grandezza who had been so totally alienated from him and finding themselves abused therein were much unsatisfied and Cardinal Richlieu who it was not known whether he would receive him graciously or not was not only offended to be so basely deluded but thought it a great affront to that he should be seen by the world to be so much mistaken in his trust and that he had thereby failed of removing that obstacle which had been so repugnant to the happy concourse of the Kings designs Likewise the King not being able to tolerate that his favour and protection should be so little valued was scandalized that a Prince who had neither Towns nor Territories nor any Authority but such as had been obtained by Treaties and which was dependent should so neglect him and his protection when in all reason he should have held it his greatest happiness to be received thereinto as into a safe Harbour he did also much resent it that the Prince in defence of his breach of word should alledge the anticipical publishing of the Agreement made in the Court of Spain he termed this conceit an abortive product of the Intellect and a shew of his sinister affection who had formed it The French Forces were as hath been said much diminished at this time in Piedmont but General Harcourt was shortly expected to return from France with a gallant re-inforcement of Foot and Horse those few French who were yet there were quartered about Chiavasso not far from Inurea at which their aim was and though the Commanders to cloak their design feigned some other intents yet the Prince being jealous of their neighbourhood as conscious of the wrong he had done them went to Millain and endeavoured to have from the Governour upon whose favour he did much build a certain number of men which being added to his own Forces might be sufficient to assault on the sudden one of the French quarters which lay in disorder beyond the Dora not far from Inurea hoping as he gave out to rout it with a dry head Turenna upon the absence of the Prince took occasion to assault Inurea To effect the which he sat down before it not waiting for General Harcourts return who was come neer Piedmont it was generally thought that he was put upon this by the Embassadour Mazzarini who having boasted in his Letters sent to Paris that he had brought the Prince over to throw himself at the Kings feet was troubled that he was cheated in his chiefest Negotiation Turenna having past over la Dora at Montalta about the midst of April 41 took up his quarters upon the neighbouring hill which commanded the Town and the Horse passing over not long after and the rest of the Foot they took up another quarter towards Vercelli Don Silvio di Savoy was Governour of the Town who was left there by his Brother the Prince when he went for Millain as soon as he saw he was assaulted he gave notice thereof to the Prince who was not then well satisfied with the Governour of Millain who had denied to send him the men he had desired wherewith to fall upon the French quarters but finding now how necessary it was to defend a place of such importance to the Prince he needed no intreaties but was very ready to assist him he therefore sent for his men immediately from their quarters which whilst they were assembling the oppugners having notice thereof caused some Cannon to come and plaid upon the City for two days space on three sides and having made 400 shot they gave a fierce assault there was but few of the Prince his Souldiers at this time in the Town the chief burthen of the defence lay upon the stout Garrison which was brought thither by Count Vercelline Visconte Camp-master and a gallant Souldier it consisted of Italians and Spaniards the latter under Don Pietro Gonzales Lieutenant to the Camp-master-general a gallant and well experienced Souldier subordinate to Visconte by whom the assault which was five times re-enforced being stoutly withstood it was five times more re-assumed in the space of four hours and as oft repuls'd wherein there died about 600 of the assailants amongst which many of the Nobility and about 100 of the defendants The Governour advanced this mean while with the succour and the Van of the Army being come to Bolegno three miles distant from the French quarters Harcourt who was now come to the Camp hearing thereof resolutely resolved to encounter it before the main body of the Battle and the Rere should joyn with it he therefore went towards them with the most of his men and they being fewer in number he would easily have scattered them had not the Governour and Prince Thomaso commanded Cavalier Aiazza to go with four Troops of Horse and some Foot from the Village Birvolo whither he was come to fall upon the French on the flank charging him to do all he could to entertain them till the Artillery and the rest of the Foot should come up who were not far off but Marquess Villa coming out against Aiazza charged him so home as he forced him to retreat to Birvolo where through the advantage of the situation the Foot who were pursued recovered Aiazza whom Villa had taken and the rest of the Spanish Army coming in very seasonably this mean while the face of affairs alter'd for the French being plaid upon on the one side by the Artillery and fiercely faln upon on the other side by Prince Thomaso and the Marquess Caracena who was arrived with fresh men they were forced to retreat to their quarters The Fight was fierce and bloody wherein above 400 of the French were slain of which many Officers and Captains about 50 of the Spanish Army were slain and as many hurt whereof four Captains it was thought that if the French had assaulted the Van one half houre sooner they had certainly routed them and had the day lasted but one half hour longer the Spaniards would have gotten a famous Victory and have ruin'd the Enemy totally for they were in great confusion when the night parted the Fray Governour Sirvela sent a relief of 800 Foot into the Town and being desirous to make himself master of Chiaverano a Castle two miles distant from Inurea and as far from Colegno he sent men to take it who beating down the gate with a petar'd met with such resistance as they were at first forced to retreat but afterwards re-inforcing their assault they took the Castle the Prince desired and press'd very much that they might go to assault the Enemy in their quarters but Sirvela Caracena and the rest of the Commanders were of another mind intending to carry on affairs with more safety but that somewhat might be done whereby the Town might
Ceva alleadging that it would require but a few days and small Forces and was notwithstanding of great consequences to pursue the rest of the Campagnia with more considerable progress and that notwithstanding Harcourts self might be free with the whole body of his Army fit to oppose any attempt of the Enemy and to secure the Country the mean while till supplies might come from Frances whereby when he should be recruited he might beâ—…ake himself to more important enterprizes he said moreover that Marquess Villa would approve of it by reason of the great advantage that would thereby redound to the Dowagers affairs and for that being already upon the way to Ceva he would advance thither the more easily with his Horse and with the French Foot which were with him and lastly he pâ—…ofer'd to go thither himself in person with 1500 of the Dowagers Foot ' desiring only one Regiment of French and three small pieces of Artillery assuring him that without further incommodating his Army he and Villa would speedily dispatch the business Harcourt was pleased with the proposal and gave way unto it so Pianezza went towards Alba to joyn and settle the business with Villa who approving of the design took upon him to go with 800 of the choicest Musketiers and with the greatest part of the Horse but without baggage to prepossess himself of the Town and of the victuals that were there and to block up all Avenues from the bringing of any succour to the Fort whilest Pianezza should advance with the Foot Artillery and Munition Villa at his first arrival made himself master of the Town and of some neighboring places which might have been a hindrance to him in taking the Fort and Pianezza having overcome the difficulties of the ways which were bad enough for the bringing of Artillery came within three days to the Town of Ceva and joyning with Villa the next day which was the fourth of Iuly began to attach the Fort their men were divided into two parts Villa placed himself with one part under a certain Tenaglia which had been abandoned by the Enemy and Pianezza with the other part on the right side of the said Tenaglia against a bulwark which was neer the gate and ordering their Cannon they betook themselves to take away their defences and then to fall upon the wall and to make mines whilest these things were doing Harcourt kept about Alba to oppose any succour which should be brought to the Fort or to prevent any design that the Spaniards might have of falling upon any other place but it was more then needed for 〈◊〉 Governour keeping still in Millain and the Prince in Inurea thougâ—… Cardinal Trivultio was gone to Allessandria where the chief Heads of the Army were met and where the people of those parts being mâ—…t were ready at any beck of the Commanders yet the many provisions which were there taken proved to no purpose they being to expect resolution from Millain which not being according to the Prince his Genius the time for action was spent in sending re-sending the consultations answers and replyes between Millain Alessandria and Inurea Wherefore the siege continuing without disturbance Marquess Pianezza had been very diligent in working the Mines on his side and though he had met with some obstacles yet he overcame them and went on So as his Mine being perâ—…ected before that of the other side he feared lest the Enemy might blow it up be summoned them to surrender threatning that otherwise he would give fire to his Mine which when it should be once done there would be no more place for parley And answer being made that they desired first to see some effects Pianezza drew up his men immediately that they might fall on as soon as the Mine should have play'd which having made a breach of 25 paces brâ—…ad the besiegers made a furious assault which being manfully with-stood by the Defendants order was given for redoubling it with greater vigour But the Defendants having done their best at the first they feared what might ensued if they should be re-assaulted Whereâ—…ore seeing all things ready for giving a new assault they did beat a parley and articled to surrender whereupon about 200 Spaniards and Piedmontese march'd out and were according to Articles convoy'd to Bagnasco This business was of great consequence to the Dowagers affairs for to boot with the great advantage she got from that whole County the taking of this place drew after it the like of the City Citadel and County of Mondovi For the Fort of Ceva being taken and afterwards the Town of Mulasana the Marquesses resolved to go to the taking in of Carru a strong Castle in those parts which held still for the Princes and Pianezza marching thitherward with some squadrons advanced towaâ—…ds the City of Mondovi inâ—…ending rather to frighten it then out of hope to take it nor did this prove amiss for those Citizens being terrified when they saw the victorious Forces advance towards the City they fâ—…ared they were come to take it they therefore threw open the Gates and willingly surrendred it He pursued his march afterwards towards Carru which despairing of reâ—… surrendred within twenty fours Ceva and the City and County of Mondovi being taken all the neighbouring Country return'd to the Dowagers obedience together with the Fort Carru Whereby the City of Conio being almost quite separated from all the other Towns of Piedmont which were â—…eld either by the Princes or Spaniards it was thought it would not be hard to take iâ—… especially since it could not be succor'd by the County of Nizza on which it confined not so much for that the Prince Cardinal had no Forces to draw into the field as though he had had any or that he should be furnish'd with any from Spain by sea yet the ways were so bad which led from the seâ—… side to Pieâ—…mont and the passages so difficult as it was impossible to convey men thither So as no Forces were to be feared from that side and Harcourt being willing to make use of the occasion threw himself immediately before it with his own and with the Dowagers men The enterprize was very hopefull nor of less advantage and consquence by reason of the scituation which being placed at the foot of the Apenine where being cut off from the Alps it divides the County of Nizza from Piedmont Conio is seated in an eminent place enclosed between two Rivers which falling down by two Valleys formed by the Apennine and running some few miles by the plain which lies beneath enclose that Town between Of these two Rivers the one which is called Ghez runs so close by one side of the Town as it serves it for a safe and deep ditch and by the height of the steep banks makes it unaccessible the other which is called Stura being about a bow shot from the Town is not of so much safety to it wherefore the Fortifications are the
the Enemy was pleased to impose upon them which were that the Garrison should be sent thorough France to the County of Burgondy which was under the King of Spain â—…he Governour had intended to relieve this place another time by sending 100 Horse and as many Dragoons thither before the surrender but the resolution being divulged and the Conductor who was no friend to Batteville carrying the business but ill-favour'dly it succeeded not for the relievers being come neer the Enemies Camp they found the Enemy ready to repulse them so they returned to Alessandria from whence they were come not having done any thing a greater disaster befel a Regiment of Horse which were sent to Montaldo a Town within six miles of Nizza to incommodâ—…ate the Enemy in their Forrage for being fallen upon by a greater number of Horse it was routed with loss of seventy Horse and the Captain had much ado to save himself Not long after Nizza was taken Don Mauritio of Savoy went with a good Body of Horse and some Foot Companies by night from Inurea to Arbo a Town in the Territories of Biela neer the Sesia whither 500 Horse were sent to be quartered under the Lieutenant General of the Millain Horse whom he assaulted three hours before day on two sides the quarter was put into great confusion and though the Lieutenant-General with some of his best men made head against them yet the rest fled awaâ—… and saved themselves by foording over the Sesia The Lieutenant having but few with him and being abandoned by the rest got over also by the same foord into the State of Millain leaving all his baggage and many of his Horse behind him to the Enemy there were not many slain for the foord being neer the quarter saved many of them Don Ieronymo Salvaterra was taken prisoner and Don Luigi Benavida both of them being wounded and if Don Mauritio had been aware to have placed some to have guarded the foord the victory would have been much greater The Marquess Caracena who was then in Vercelli thought to have served the Enemy with the like sauce for hearing that the Princes Horse were quartered in five places above Biela he rallied the Horse that were run from their quarters and joyning them to those that were in Garrison in Vercelli and St. Ia he marched with them and with 400 Foot about Sun-set thinking to fall upon the Prince his Horse which lay about Biela But he fared not as did Don Mauritio by reason of the disparity of the Countries through which they marched for Caracena marched through an Enemies Country and Mauritio thorow his friends quarters Wherefore the latter past with great silence and secrecie whereas Caracena found the Country up in Arms and the bells of the Towns by which he marched ringing aloud so as not being able to get to the place he intended before noon day his resentment proved vain save onely that he light upon 60 Horse which were given to Biela which he routed and took some of them prisoners Nizza being taken Longueville sat down before Acqui which he within a few days took and went to quarter at Gui intending as was imagined to go to the taking in of Tortona but he was disswaded by Prince Thomaso who thinking to succeed in the surprisal of Novara as he had plotted it inviâ—…ed the Duke to joyn with him in that enterprise Wherefore the Duke returning to Cassalle joyn'd with the Prince who staid for him at Balzola and Morano and passing together over the Sesia they marched towards Novara But whether it were that he could nor come at his appointed time to the Gates of Novara by reason of the excessive rain which had fallen for two days or that they had heard that the Marquess of Caracena fearing what the issue of this march would be was entred Novara with above 500 Horse and a great many Foot And that the Governour of Millain who was then in Alessandria had sent some foot from Garrison to Garrison by Valenza and Mortara so speedily as that these recruits coming before the Enemy arrived the Prince began to doubt his design he and the Duke retreated to Confienza and passing over the Sesia distributed their men in Constanza Dezava Carenzana and in other Towns thereabouts Where having tarryed a few days and moneys being sent from France they went to the former designed enterprise of Tortona The French Forces and those of the Dowagers in this Camp rose to the number of 5000 Horse and 10000 Foot Marquess Villa led on the Van Longueville followed with the Body of the Battle and Prince Thomaso brought up the Rere and passing over the Poe to Cassalle and over the Tanaro to Filizzano Villa advanc'd presently to possess himself of all the places neer the City to keep out Men and Munition which when it should be done this so important City would undoubtedly have been reduced within four dayes For Tortona being far from Piedmont none could imagine that the Enemy should leave the Towns unrecovered which were held by the Spaniards in the heart of the State and advance to this especially since the winter drew on and by the difficulty of bringing relief which was to be brought so far through an Enemies Country wherefore as if it had been out of all danger it had in it a Garrison of only 100 Souldiers and no Commander of note But the enemies diligence was prevented by the Governor Siruela who not knowing what to think of the haste which the Enemy made and not being able to comprehend where they intended to go though he wanted Foot to secure so many places subject to be assaulted by so great Forces yet after having sent succour to Allessandria from Valenza he sent 800 Foot to pass over the Poe at Bassignana and to keep in Piovera and ordered Don Iohn Vasques Coronado who was in Allessandria that if the Enemy should tarry in those parts he should send for those 800 Foot and with them succour Annone Rocaurano and Aste but if he should see them make towards Tortona he should forth-with send them to assist that City which was wisely foreseen by the Governour and being punctually observed by Vasques excellent effects did theâ—…eby redound to the Kings Affairs For these 800 Foot being luckily got into the City before Villa's arrivall some few of them onely who were neer in the Rere not being able to escape Villa's diligence who took them the Town was inabled to hold out the siege long which consumed more then the moiety of that flourishing Army which if they had quickly taken they might easily have made themselves Masters of all on this side the Poe towards the Apennine and would their Forces being entire have had opportunity to have effected the Prince his vast designes Not long after Bernardine Galeotti a Neapolitan and Prestino who was an excellent Enginier being sent by the Governour stole into the City passing over the Mountain which was not as yet guarded nor
after having stay'd a while in those parts causing no little jealousie in the Towns of the State of Millain confining upon Piedmont he at last sat down before Trino the Garrison whereof he knew was lessened a little before by the new Governour But having quartered his men at his first arrival in the neighbouring Towns and keeping as it were idle for three dayes he gave occasion for the entring of two succours the one of two Companies of Horse and one of Foot from Vercelli the other of 300 Dragoons from Bremi so as the Prince beginning to believe that if more relief should be suffer'd to enter the enterprise which he thought would have been easie would prove otherwise he began to begirt the Town at a nearer distance and drew his line round about it and whilst this was in doing the opposers advanced by a covered way to a half moon who being repuls'd by a fierce sally made by the Governour Batteville were forced to retreat a little with much loss But the line being afterwards perfected the Prince with his Brother Don Mauritio and Viscount Turen divided the out-fortification between them and fell to take the half moon which when they had taken they betook themselves to the Cities Bulwark and made a great mine underneath it which made a great breach by which the Prince did verily believe he should enter the City Wherefore before he came to an assault he intimated to Batteville that he would have him surrender which Batteville refusing to do a fierce assault was made which being thrice given was thrice repuls'd with loss to the Assailants But the Prince preparing for another assault Batteville who found his Munition grow low his men weary by their long pains taking by their continual watching and not able to make any longer defence surrendred upon honourable conditions in case he should not be relieved within five dayes Which being expired and no relief appearing he march'd with his men out of the Town which was delivered over to the Prince and furnished with a French Garrison as were all the other Towns of Piedmont which were regain'd The Prince went from Trino with his Army much lessened by the running away sickneâ—… and death of many occasion'd by the badness of that ayre the malignity whereof had influence not onely upon the meaner sort but upon the chief Commanders for Turen Marquess Villa and his Son Count Camerano fell sick and were forc'd to return for cure to Turin Nor did the Prince himself scape free for falling sick of a Fever he tarried many dayes in Inurea so as the care and government of the Army fell to Monsieur Plessis Pralin who being recruited with more men from France sat down before Pontestura where meeting with no resistance save only some sallies which the Garrison made upon his quarters he proceeded slowly in the siege but having afterwards gotten into the Town by a breach made by Cannon taken it he soon aâ—…ter took the Castle upon conditions of fair war whereinto the Garrison was retreated which Castle was afterwards demolish'd by the French that they might not be forced to munite it as would have been requisite with a good Garrison Thus did the Spaniards lose the Towns in Piedmont which they had gotten with much effusion of blood and expence of moneys hoping to make themselves thereby sole Arbitrators of that State and to keep the French out of the State of Millain But by the misfortune of the Affairs of that Crown they failed in these designs for the Forces which were sent thither from Spain having occasioned the coming of the French thither the Spaniards saw the French not only possest of many Towns and even of the Castle of Turin but of those which were taken by the Spaniards and which they recoveâ—…ed just as befel the Citadel of Cassalle so the Spaniards saw the French become Arbitrators of Piedmont and Montferrat and saw them come even to the Confines of the State of Millain The new Governour finding his Forces too weak to make resistance minded more the defence of the State of Millain then the maintaining of what the Spaniards had gotten in Piedmont wherefore he gave himself wholly to view the Forts to furnish them with all things necessary and to re-enforce them with strong Garrisons in case they should be assaulted as he feared they would be there remaâ—…ned nothing to the entire recovery of Piedmont but Vercelli and St. Ia Vercelli had so strong a Garrison in it and was so abundantly furnish'd with all provisions as it was judged vain to attempt it without a puissant Army and St. Ia now that both Armies were retreated to their Winter quarters was reseâ—…ved for one of the first enterprises of the next Campagnia so as the Military affairs being by the sore Winâ—…er reduced almost to a taciâ—…e Truce Prince Thomaso growing to confide more in the Court of France now that Cardinal Richlieu was dead resolved to go thither from whence he retuâ—…ned much satisfied with not only honourable favours but with imployments of great authority being made Generalâ—…ssimo of the French Forces in Italy with power to use them in what enterprises he should please for which he had good pay assigned him and good store of men The pay came to 200000 pounds Sterling and the men to 12000 Foot and 3000 Horse The Prince being return'd went into the field the beginning of the next Spring and entring into the lower Montferrat entertained himself in the Langhe in affairs of small imporâ—…ance then going to Cassalle he sent Don Mauritio with a good strength of men towards Arona and following afer himself with the rest he endeavoured to take it which he easily might have done had not Camp-master Fra Iovanni Pallavicino who marched with incredible speed prevented him with Mortaâ—…a's Brigade Count Riviera accompanied Pallavicino in this march with a few men and being both of them come in 24 â—…ours to Anghiera fiâ—…ty good miles from Mortara they found Don Mauritio before Arona busie in digging Trenches and raising Batâ—…eries and â—…he Prince meeting with so great opposition and hearing that the Governour drew nâ—…er with all his Forceâ—… resolved to give over the enterpriâ—…e and returned with all his men into Piedmont whither wâ—…en he was come he sat down before St. Ia and having made his Approaches and his Batteries he gave himself wholly to the taking of it but he was detained by an accident of no small importance for the City of Alessandria having kept her Gates lock'd one whole day about two a clock at night sent out 1500 Horse under Don Vincenzo Gonzaga and two Foot Brigades the one of Pallavicino's the other of Don Gregorio Britto Gonzaga was to take the City of Asti and Pallavicino and Britto the Citadel Gonzaga failed of his intent but Pallavicino and Britto fared better for coming by night to the Citadel they assaulted it at unawares and took it before the Garrison which was but weak were
with the gross of his men and offered himself ready to defend either that Town or Tortona if either of them should be assaulted by the enemy but when he saw the Marshal return from Piovera and go together with the Duke to before Valenza he hasted thither with Colonna and the men which were with him and being come into the Town he found it provided of an excellent Commander the Marquess of Celada a Spaniard nobly born whom being come a little before from Spain and seeing that they were likely to abandon Valenza could not suffer such an amazment and therewith such a prejudice to the affairs of the Crown and so great a lessening of the honor of Spain he therefore offered to take upon him the defence of that Town and to sacrifice himself and his fortune in so dangerous a business for the publick honour and safety who being a Gentleman experienced in Arms and sent from the Court with title of General of the Horse of an Army which by the Kings order and expence was to be raised in Alsatia his offer was accepted and much commended by the Governour of Millain the singular example of so generous magnanimity encouraged many and fill'd them with generous emulations so as not able to stand spectators of the loss of that Town to the loss of their reputation they resolved to follow him he entred Valenza two days before Colonna and Spinola came thither from Allessandria with men artillery munition and victuals Spinola took upon him the already begun defence the more willingly now that he saw the place commanded by so gallant a person whom he had very well known in the Wars of Germany and not refusing to serve under him the generous Spaniards would not exercise command over him but left the titular or seeming government to Martine Galeno who was the Governour before in whose name all things were done and they two Celada and Spinola joyntly and unanimously did with much care and vigilancy minde the defence of the besieged Town and seeing it provided of all things necessary for new provisions were daily brought in by the bridge they fell to fortifie it but the Town being environed onely with an old ruinous wall they first began to perfect the work which Spinola had begun which was a great strong Trench which being Flank'd with eight bulwarks begirt the Town at a competent distance on the outside by which work which was handsomly begun and perfected they hoped to keep the enemy from the wall as long as possibly they could and having time and convenience through Cricky's negligence to finish the work they munited it with many men and for the better defence they besides the Bulwarks made certain low Redoubts in the ditch which they call Capponiere by a word taken from Capons pens which they are like to these Capponiere some slingers were sent by a cover'd way from the bulwarks who kept the enemy at such a distance as he could not come neer the wall before he was master of the Capponiere the taking whereof as it was very hard they being under the shelter of the Cannon and musket of the Bulwarks which were on their backs so were they easie to be recovered in case they were lost for those that take them being play'd upon by the same Cannon and Muskets which did first defend them they are forc'd either to abandon their purchase immediately with much loss of blood first shed in the taking of them and afterwards in abandoning them which being abandoned are easily re-taken by the said Slingers through the same cover'd ways who when they can make no longer defence got with safety into the bulwarks the loss therefore succeeding the defence and the defence the loss provision was had for the long preservation and safety of the chief Bulwark by which the place was secured a moderen invention the which the sleighter it seem'd to be proved the more efficacious for it is apt to weary the fiercest assaults that can be given to Bulwarks nor did they employ their time onely in fortifying and muniting after Celada and Spinola were come but in sallying out also and in assaults for finding that the Duke of Parma's quarters were not yet perfectly fortified and hearing that his numbers were much diminished by the running away of many of his men they thought they might easily make themselves Masters thereof by assaulting them early in the morning whil'st the Souldiers were asleep but the event answered not expectation for as they sallyed out upon break of day towards the Dukes quarters they were driven back to within their own walls and fortifications with loss of men and reputation Richardo Auvoyadro General of the Dukes Horse a stout and well experienced Flanders Souldier whil'st he was diligently looking to affairs espied the enemy and giving an Alarm immediatly went out himself unarm'd as he was on horsback with onely fourteen other horse which he found ready and in order and encountred the enemy and falling upon a squadron of Carabines which were advanc'd before the rest he aâ—…ter a sleight Skirmish beat them back and afforded time this mean while for the rest to arm and put themselves in order to defend their quarters which the enemy being aware off and fearing they should fail of their hopes they retreated to within their works in great confusion leaving some of their men dead behinde them and amongst which Don Iovan di Chiavari nephew to Cardinal Albornizi whose death was recompenced with the like of Avogadro who after having repuls'd the Carabines being transported with the success advanc'd forward and going to assault some Curassiers was slain by a Musker shot to the Dukes great grief who confided much in his Councel valour and experience Valenza being fortified and 5000 good foot being left there Colonna went out with only 800 Horse and retreated to Pieve del Cairo a Town beyond the Poe in the â—…omellina six miles from Valenza expecting more men which were to come from several parts and in the interim was a Convoy to the Provisions which were continually sent and this he did lest it might be taken by stoln assaults which would have been prejudicial to the relieving of Valenza wherein many valiant and experienced Commanders tarried the very flower of the Spaniards besides Marquess Spinola so as by the confidence that was had of them by the Works and Fortifications which were continually made and by the continued assistance that Don Carlo Colonna who kept in the Lomellina gave them the condition of the Town seemed to be somewhat bettered This confidence grew greater for that the besiegers were found not to proceed with such vigour and diligence as they ought to have done The Duke of Parma who being of a fiery spirit and desirous to bring the business to a good and speedy end thought every least delay a loss of time nor could he endure that the business which of its self was like to be short and sure should be