into the Tuscan Sea not without much grief to the Viceroy who not having yet vented his anger would contrary to the Kings command continue the War which was begun Thus was Venice when she least thought of it freed from the very neer danger of being assaulted but she fared no better in the Wars of Friuli for the Captains of the Army that they might not lye idle whilest the Hollanders delayed their coming attempted the Castle of Cestnuts and a Town which was a great one and near it upon the banks of Lisonzo hoping that when they should have taken those two places they might easily take the Tower upon the stone Bridge and pass fâ—…om thence to the expugning of Goritia which when they should have got the Enemies Army would neither have been able to have kept the Field nor to defend Gradisca nor to hold the rest of the Archdukes Country so as whole Friuli falling into the Commonwealths hands the Alps had been the boundâ—…ure of the Dutch Empire a thing which peradventure she concealedly aimed at General Medici parting therefore from Luciniso with many Souldiers sent part of them to take in the Fort and coming with the rest to Piuma he easily took it and leaving people with sufficient provisions and Orders to defend it he returned to Luciniso The others being gotten neer the Fort began to streighten it on two sides hoping verily to take it for there being only eighty Foot in it badly provided either with Victuals or wherewithal to fight they by signs gave notice of their necessity to those of their side wherein they could hardly be provided by the Austrians for besides that the Venetians were numerous and in Piuma and about the Fort and were able to increase their numbers by reason of the neighbourhood of those who were in Luciniso and in St Florini Lisonzâ—… being swoln by continual rains had broke the Bridge which the Austrians had built upon long-boats and had carried the long boats along with it and the rain continuing it was impossible to pass over Lisonzo it was therefore hard and dangerous to relieve that Fort but more hard and dangerous to abandon it yet at the last the Austrian Commanders of two evils chusing the less resolved to adventure a few men for the safety and preservation of all they therefore planted two Batteries on their shore side against Piuma to keep the Enemy from fortifying and chose out 800 of the best Horse and Foot who being commanded by the Baron Hermisteine and by Captain Henrico Paradiso Navarro and Captain Ferdinandâ—… Caratti might pass over the Riveâ—… in a certain place where they were sheltered from the sight of the Enemy and from being offended by them and to this purpose having no Long-boats they took from the standing Pools and Rivers that were neer at hand certain little Shallops made out of the whole timber which the Country-people call Zocchi whereinto the Souldiers got and holding by a long-rope which was thrown over the River did by a few at a time get over to the other shore The business being uâ—…dauntedly begun by Captain Caratti succeeded no less happily except that the rope being broke by the swiftness of the Riveâ—… two Zocchi with the Souldiers that were in them were drowned at which disaster their companions being not at all dismaid tied certain bundles together and throwing them over the River did by resting on them get without any prejudice to the other side 200 of them went to relieve the Fort and the rest to recover Piuma the former though assisted by the besieged who sallied out of the Fort could not advance but the others when they came neer Piuma infused such terrour into the Venetians as abandoning the Town without making any resistance they betook themselves to their heels and fled without stopping till they came to Luciniso whose example was immediately followed by those who were about the Fort who seeing Piuma abandoned forsook their Trenches also and unpursued ran shamefully away and though at first the Commanders and afterwards Medici who was come then from Luciniso got them to return to their first stations yet afterwards better considering the confusion the Souldiers dismaiedness and the undauntedness of the Enemy who despising death and presenting themselves fiercely before them after they had waded the River which they had so couragiously past over only to relieve the Fort and who therefore were likely not to refuse any danger so they might relieve it they chose to shun the incounter and to forgothe enterprise with some loss of reputation lest they might be driven away with loss and shame the Souldâ—…ers retreated therefore in good order to Luciniso and the Fort was freed by the Austrians singular valour at last the Hollanders appeared 4300 in number in two Regiments led on by Count Iohn Ernestus of Nassaw Nephew to Count Maurice 300 whereof were at her own charge sent by the Princess of Orange under the same Count and 1000 brought at his own expence by Colonel Georgio Sergi Wassenofen who was nobly rewarded by the Venetians for so generous an action these Souldiers were very well armed and clad commanded by many Gentlemen of very good quality and were therefore of great help to the Venetian Camp Wassenofen who was the first that came to Venice was sent by Land to Friuli and the Count coming soon after went by Sea to Montfalcone and from thence to the Camp as soon as Commissary Lando and General Medici saw the Hollanders they immediately betook themselves to pass over the Carso leaving the care of the Camp and of all things on this side to Commissary Nicolo Contareno who succeeded Forscarini with sufficient Forces to Guard the Country and with excellent Orders to be put in execution in due time They caused a Bridge to be privately cast over Cassoianâ—… four miles below Gradisca by which Lando Medici and Erizzo past over into the Country of Montfalcone with 5000 Foot and about 800 Horse which being joyn'd to Nassaw's Hollanders and to other Souldiers who were muster'd there were divided into four Squadrons according to the ways by which they were to march Commissary Lando though he desired and was resolved to be present at this passage was notwithstanding perswaded by Medici and the rest who to shun adventuring the publick dignity in his person forc'd him to tarry in Montfalcone where he might be more serviceable in taking order and in making provisions for the Enterprise Erizzo was to be ready with a flying Squadron to come in and assist where any need or sudden accident should require Cosimo di Marchesi del Monte he who first discovered Carso went by the first way neerest the Sea and furthest from Lisonzo with 800 Foot and being come to Dobredo he presently took it and for more security began to fortifie it Oratio Balioni went by the next way with 1500 Foot four small pieces good store of Pioneers and Ammunition for War Count Ferdinando Scotto going
French Garrison in thither and had done it had not Marquess Villa who was not perfectly recovered of his sickness been aware thereof and brought many of the Dukes Militia into the Town by which he seasonably prevented the Marshals designs This Dukes death was the occasion of great wars to Piedmont which we will leave to speak of till the next Book for we must now give over the affairs of Lombardy in the condition we have spoken of and looking a little backwards re-assume the proceedings at Sea which not to interrupt the Land affairs are of purpose treated of here About the time that the things which have been spoken of hapned on Land the Fleet at Sea which having put twice forth from the Haven at Naples could never light upon Provence fell at last upon the two Islands of St. Honorato anciently called Lerino and St. Margherita the latter being divided from the former by a narrow channel small Islands and almost uninhabited Count Monterei was the occasioner of this enterprise who having laboured the sending out of this Fleet twice and spent vast sums of money therein was loth that this enterprise which he esteemed as his own and from whence he hoped to reap great things should vanish away in smoak and seeing that the defence which was prepared in Provence and the lessening of the Fleet which was shatter'd by tempest made the enterprise unpossible to be effected as it was first designed he turned his force upon these two Islands The Marquess of Ferrendina did also co-operate herein who appearing in the Seas of Genoa with a Squadron of Spanish Gallies whereof he was Captain being well furnish'd with Souldiers he found the Marquess of San ' Croce with the Neapolitan Fleet in the Haven at Vai who had but few men aboard he having sent them as you have heard to before Valenza Ferrendina incited San ' Croce to joyn with him in taking of these Islands which when they should have taken they thought they might at least be able to hinder those of Provence from Trafficking by Sea and be ready for some greater enterprise as occasion should be offer'd About the midst of September San ' Croce Ferrandina and Don Carlo Doria Duke of Tursis went with 22 Gallies 5 Ships and some Shallops towards those Islands whither when they were come they landed their men the same day in the Island San ' Margherita as being the greatest and neerest the Continent and therefore apter to be relieved they without any withstanding became masters of it taking a small Fort which was all they found in it wherein were 50 Souldiers in Garrison who after having made some shot surrendred the Fort they went afterwards with their Gallies to batter a certain Tower called le Crocette which was newly built upon a point of the Continent so neer the Island as they plaid upon them with their Artillery from the shore over against them whereof they thought they might easily make themselves masters but the Tower resisting and many men coming to defend it they gave it over they then went to the Island St. Honorato where though they met with more resistance because there was there a greater Garrison and better Fortifications yet it was surrendred though it held out somewhat longer then St. Margherita there marched out of both these Islands about 400 Foot and the Viceroy of Naples receiving advertisement of all that was done abundance of victuals Munition Arms and Artillery and all things necessary to munite them and maintain them were sent from that Kingdom there was great fame at this time of Maritime preparations made by the King of France both in the Seas of Britanny and Provence to furnish out a powerful Fleet and to keep it in the Mediteranean not only to secure Provence from the Spanish Fleet but to resent himself upon the Kingdom of Naples for his offences intended against Provence it was therefore given out that the King of France holding intelligence with many Lords and others of that Kingdom who were held to be dis-satisfied with the Spanish Empire would send that Fleet to prejudice that Kingdom which when the Vice-roy Monterei heard it made him not only provide for offending Provence and for securing the State of Millain but for defending that Kingdome in case effects should be answerable to what was said No appearance was ever found of the intelligence or dissatisfaction which was spoken of though strict inquiry was made thereinto and yet without omitting to provide for the war of Lombardy which the Viceroy minded as much as that of Naples he made all places where the Fleet could Land be munited with strong Garrisons he gave order for levying a Dutch Brigade he armed at least 40 men of war he re-inforced the Gallies made great provision of Arms Ammunition and Artillery he made many Brigades be raised throughout the Kingdom he gave order that the Mediterranean Militia should be in readiness to come if occasion should serve to the sea side he chose 15000 of the best experienced Neapolitans to defend the Walls and he did apply himself with such diligence and indefatigableness to have a care of all places as he might be truly said to be the soul which did at that time maintain and inanimate the vast body of the Spanish Monarchy which was assaulted on so many sides all these provisions were so ascertained and so fitted as the French Fleet which was numerous for Vessels and Souldiers hearing thereof forbare not only assaulting but approaching the Coasts of that Kingdom and keeping long in the Ligustick Sea did not any thing worth so great a preparation nor could it ever hinder the passage and landing of Souldiers which were sent from Spain and from Naples to the State of Millain for the requisite re-inforcement of the Army in Lombardy for at the same time that the French Fleet lay in the Ligustick Sea the Spanish Gallies came to shore at Finale whilst they looked on and landed as many men as they pleased without any hindrance The French Fleet consisted of 60 ships which were come from Britanny into the Mediterranean commanded by Henry of Lorreyne Count Harcourt and by Monsieur De Sordi Arch-bishop of Burdeaux to which were added 13 Gallies of Provence amongst which was the great Galleoun Guise commanded by Count Poncurletto all very well rigg'd and provided of Artillery and all other Navall necessaries they sailed all of them by the Islands which were taken by the Spaniards but a little before not making any one shot at them though they were provoked by many made from those Islands and tarrying a while at Villa Franca they appeared in the Ligustick Sea about the end of September 1636. The Spaniards Forces at Sea were far inferiour to this Fleet wherefore it became the Spanish Gallies to give way to the French Fleet and to keep out of the reach of Cannon wherein the French exceeded them And yet the Duke of Ferrendina who was in the Seas of
some amends and have repaired the reputation of the Kings Forces wherein they suffered very much if following the enemy they had vigourously re-entred Piedmont at their heels so the keeping with the whole Army for above two moneths about the Fort which was erecting did necessarily detract from their honour and so much the more for that mighty things being looked for from them no mean successes would have satisfied expectation On the other side the Duke making less account of the discomforture given to his men then of the enemies going out of Piedmont thought the least harm that befell the enemy a great comfort to his own affairs And therefore thinking that at the very beginning of the War he had made the world see that the Spanish Forces were not invincible he hoped that the Italians being awakened thereby as by a warlike trumpet would the sooner joyn with him both in Forces and in intelligence against strangers Therefore not being upon this occasion wanting to himself but making his cause the common cause he was well pleased that divers writings and composures should be thrown abroad in Italy but especially in his own Dominions wherein stiling him the head and author of the recovery of their ancient Liberty the Italian Potentates were exhorted to throw off the forreign yoke by which they had been so long oppress'd And still continuing with more fervency the indeavours long before begun in France and Germany with the Princes who did emulate the Spanish Grandezza with the King of England and with the States of Holland he strove to make them joyn with him that so they might unanimously oppose that power which did overshadow a great part of Europe But believing particularly that the Venetians the great harm which would insue unto them by his suppresion being considered would not give him over in so great a danger he therefore having composed the differences which had been between them and him touching the War of Montferrat by the intercession of the Embassadours of France and England then resident in Venice he resolved to send Iacomo Pissina with title of Embassadour to Venice to exhort them upon this occasion to imbrace his cause with their Forces and the defence of the common safety and liberty who being brought into the Colledge may be supposed to have spoken to this effect It is most certain Serene Prince and wise fathers that diffidence hath always been the ruine and undoing of friendship as on the contrary affiance and trust hath always been held the streightest bond to keep Princes perpetually colleagued in friendship to one and the same end The distrust that the Duke my Master joyning with the Spaniards conspired against the common saâ—…ety when upon just occasion he took up arms against Montferrat made you readily imbrace the Duke of Mantua's cause which was then held to be the common cause Out of this Reason the Duke my Master as best knowing his own intentions which he by open manifestoes published to the world thought this Commonwealth more inclined to favour his adversary then him And that therefore constriuing his intentions to be otherwise then they have been since known to be by reciprocal diffidence the ancient friendship so long preserved between him and this Commonweâ—…lth hath on the sudden been turned to enmity Now since all men may assertain themselves by what hath hapned at Novara and Vercelli that the Dukes intention never was nor can ever in the future be different from the common end of the Princes of Italy and particularly from that of this most glorious Commonwealth which is manfully to make good and constantly to maintain the common safety dignity and liberty against the common enemies he therefore hath reason to hope that past distastes being turn'd to as much confidence the former good correspondency will be redoubled and that in so just and honest a cause in so useful and necessary a War he may presume to be favoured by the Venetian Forces For if you did resolve to patronize the Duke of Mantua against a Prince so streightly joyn'd in interest and good will with this Commonwealth only out of fear that he might assault Montferrat with an intention to annex it to the Spaniards how much more ought you now prepare to defend the Duke of Savoy whilst he is assaulted by the ambitious Spaniard for the preservation of the publick dignity by those Forces wheâ—…eby under a colour of preserving peace in Italy and which they are the first that do disturb they indeavour to possess themselves of Piedmont so lawfully injoyed by him and by his predecessors the Spaniards as all men may see would be believed to be the Arbitrators the Patrons of Italy the Supream Moderator of her Potentates they therefore think it reasonable that all Italian Princes as if they we eâ—…so many of their Subjects should obey every the least beck of that King nay of any of his Ministers And terming the slavery of Italy peace the obedience thereof security and on the contrary the freedom thereof contumacy and its generosity turbulency of spirit they by these artifices strive to make themselves gracious and others odious to the people And now having begun to exercise this their superiority to the no less general prejudice then to the universal loss of reputation upon the weakest they will arrogate the like over the greatest They of late commanded the Duke of Modena and the Lucchesi to lay down arms and were immediately obeyed without any reply They now indeavour the like with the Duke of Savoy whom after having secured Montferrat from all Hostility they command to lay down Arms and to disband his Souldiers and because he keeps 2000 Souldiers more then usual in his Dominions they threaten him Was there ever known so unjust and so imperious a command with what reason does that King and that Nation who as all men know are but as of yesterday in Italy give Laws to the Dukes of Savoy who held the Scepter of Piedmont 400 years before he was master of one foot of Land in Italy will there none then dare to shew their faces and gainsay such insolent commands shall the generosity of the Italian name be so totally extinct as that all Italy shall obey those whom they have formerly commanded who sees not that by these beginnings they aim at the reducing of the power and liberty of the Princes of Italy into a Precarious power into a Precarious liberty depending upon every nod of theirs but why talk I of a Precarious power of a Precarious liberty these beginnings tend manifestly to the reducing of the Duke of Savoy into miserable slavery and to the subjugating of Piedmont nor ceasing here to the making themselves absolute Lords of Italy the Monarchy whereof having long fancied unto themselves in Idea they now begin to try how it may succeed by the suppression of the Duke my Master and by counterfeiting with the other Italian Potentates And cloaking this their ambitious and
was safe on the one side from being injured by the Castle That the Citizens were but ill satisfied with the Prince That the Passes in Piedmont which were scituated on steep Cliffs might be unexpectedly taken by a few Souldiers and be by them defended which being taken that the Castle and City could not be relieved and therefore might be easily mastered by any who should go thither with convenient Forces They also said that the Castle of Villa Franca a spatious and safe harbour was but weakly walled guarded only by 50 Souldiers and subject to be plaid upon on several sides that howsoever Cape San Sespiro a place commodious to land in and very neer Villa Franca might easily be surprised and fortified as not being provided either of Guards or Fortifications he therefore proposed either of these two enterprises as feasible to the King the rather for that he being Master of the Sea had the whole River of Genoa together with the Haven of Monaco for his friends so as if either of these two enterprises should be taken in hand at the same time that the Land-Army should enter Piedmont it might be probably hoped that landing between six and eight thousand men in those parts they might easily be effected or if they should meet therein with any greater difficulties it would howsoever be very advantagious to make the attempt by reason of the great diversion it would be to the affairs of Piedmont The Court was pleased with this proposal and it was presently ordered to be put in hand so as necessary provision and materials were furnished from Genua by the said Vives and the people which were come from Naples and those which were shortly expected from Sicily were deputed for that service but because contrary winds caused much delay the Duke had notice of the Enemies design and fortified Cape San Sespiro re-inforced the Garrison of Nice and of his other Maritime Towns therefore the Governour either that he might not irritate the French when they should see the places confining upon Prevence assaulted and to which they have ancient pretences or finding the difficulties and that they were prevented by the Duke forewent these their first intentions and fell to besiege Oneglia a Town belonging to the Duke 40 miles distant from Nice towards Genua wherefore Prince Philibertus being gone for Spain though the Gallies which were expected with men from Spaine were not yet come yet Don Alvaro Bassano Marquess of Sancta Croce Captain of the Neopolitan Gallies went thither with his Gallies and with those that keep usually in the Haven at Genua commanded by Don Andrea Doria in them there were six Neâ—…politan Companies under Vespatiano Macedonico and eight Spanish under Pietro Sermiento Camp-master Oneglia is a Town di 500 fuochi upon the sea shore having on the east side craggy hills on the west it is watered as it were with a little river beyond which stand some hills which entring into the sea make the Premontory commonly called Cape St. Lazero her jurisdiction towards the sea lies neer the mountain and the river it extends much further on the land side having the command of three very fruitful 〈◊〉 peopled by 60 Villages besides which there are other two Maro and Perla which belong likewise unto the Duke The place it self never having seen the face of an Enemy is not any ways fortified unless with a Castle built after the antient manner and by a Bulwark towards the sea which serves rather to keep out Pirates then to fortifie the Town But the Dukes Commanders and Souldiers being entred thereinto they made divers Fortifications there they drew a trench along the river on the West side and a bank of sand along the shore for it was defended on the north side by a Country of friends and on the east by craggy hills Count Lodevico della Moretta Marquess di Dogliano commanded there in chief who had with him many Captains and Souldiers as well of the neighbouring Valleys as sent by directions and order from Piedmont Sancta Croce landed his men on the 19 of November by permission from the Commonwealth beyond Cape St. Lazero and though his leave to land was upon condition that he should not make any they in her Territories yet making no account thereof St. Crece quartered himself on this side the river and planting his battery there he begun to command the Campagnia and to remove all impedments The next night he sent some of his men beyond the river who after a stour dispute having gained the further bank made themselves masters of many ways which led unto the walls and at the same time bringing two pieces of Artillery upon the Piazza of St. Moro to begin the battery from thence they beat back above 500 Souldiers from the Trenches and Rampiers which they had made thereabouts with loss of only eight assailants and some that were wounded But being there infested by others who were fortified in some other houses which stood a little higher and by certain Mortar-pieces which were placed on the Dukes Palace he turned his Artillery thither-ward beat down the houses and boldly assaulting them he repulst the defendants who were 300 in number and pursued them to the Covent of St Augustini whither they retreated in great disorder The Covent was immediately inviron'd with Trenches which was very opportunely seated for defence of the Town and was plaied upon all that night 400 of the Garrison who were there defending themselves very valiantly This mean while the Gallies lay not idle but landing men came upon Oneglia cleared the Campagnia with their Artillery and beat down the tops of the houses though that they that were within indeavored to keep them off with the Artillery of the Castle and of the Bastion which was on the sea side And landing a great Cannon between the river and Cape St. Lazere they therewithall slew many upon the Trenches Those who were within defended themselves manfully but their Ammunition grew low as was conceived by their so seldom shooting and a Falluca loaded with Muniton which was sent from Villa Franca was intercepted by the Gallies so as they grew daily more and more to despair of succour For Count Guido who fell down from Piedmont to this purpose with 200 Horse and 500 Foot being necessarily to pass thorow the Territories of Genua was denied passage It was therefore thought the Town would be soon surrendred and those within had already obtained Truce for three hours by means of a Capuchine Friar seeming as if they would yield up the Town but with intention that they might fortifie themselves the better for the Rampiers being finished a little before the time of Truce expired they let fly a piece of Artillery into the Camp and gave a furious volley of Musket shot from the Monastery On the other side those without reinforced their batteries on many parts but did no great good thereby the defendants making valiant resistance and killing many of
not therewithal contented as not being willing by any means in a business of so great concernment and importance to depend upon anothers will subject to so many casualties and accidents of Variation which might peradventure happen And because the business of the Palatinate grew more difficult the King of Spain keeping himself within the bounds of not promising any effectualy estitution which the Prince of Wales desired and pretended that it was promised affirming that he would use his Authority and best indeavours with the Emperour to whom he said the inteâ—…est of concession did chiefly belong and upon whom the disposal of that State did absolutely depend men began therefore daily to suspect more and more that the Court of Spain having been from the beginning intentionally and inwardly against the Match they had only cunningly held on the Treaty partly out of their own ambition and Grandezza partly for the Honour of the Prince whom they seemed to esteem very highly but chiefly that they might gain time and advance the mean while in the business of the Valtoline Which the Prince percerving he parted from that Court after he had been six Moneths there without having made any conclusion and imbarking in a Fleet which was come from England to re-conduct him he returned to his own Kingdom carrying with him implacable hatred grievous complaints revenge and enmity instead of friendship and a Wife Here I the Translator of this Book must crave leave both of my Author and Reader which if it may not be granted me I will presume to take to insert a passage which then happened and does relate to this Story it being a full and perfect Vindication of a scandalous imputation laid by some black back-biting Dogs nay foul-mouth'd Curs upon this then glorious Prince my since blessed King and now and for ever that undoubtedly happy Saint in Heaven King Charles late Monarch of Great Britain and Ireland they being defirous to make the world believe by their scurrilous speeches and writings that this pious conscientious and religious King was a Papist in his heart and intended to introduce Popery into this Land And truly since it falls out so pat and so aptly here I cannot forbear doing it though I know it be unusual and contrary to custome for Translators to adde any thing of their own and this it was I Who had the honour to be bred up with this hopeful Prince and who account it my greatest happiness to have known him and to have been known by him when he was King having heard a street Report that this Infanta his then Mistress and since Wife to the King of Hungary was turned Lutheran according to the gratious freedom his Majesty was always used to afford me I told him of it one day when he was at Dinner upon the hearing whereof His ever blessed Majesty was pleased to say Harry if this be true I am confident I know who turn'd her which I desiring to know who it might be His Majesty answered Padre Rohose This Padre Rohose said His Majesty when I came to Spain was Confessor to the Infanta and in the absence of the Kings Confessor was also Confessor to the King He was one said His blessed Majesty who gave very diligent attendance upon me when I came first to Spain and for two or three Moneths space never failed to wait upon me when I was at Dinner insomuch as some acquaintance being grown between us he one day moved me that a Disputation might be had in publick between my Chaplains and some of the King of Spains Priests in point of Religion affirming that he knew it would be very pleasing to the Infanta I answered no saying I came not hither to turn nor to be turned in my Religion by any publick Argumentations nor have I any such Commission from the King my Father but rather a Command to the contrary but if you Padre Rohose have any thing to object against the Religion which I profess I will give you the hearing in private Padre Rohose being glad that he had got thus much began to object somewhat against the Religion profess'd in my Fathers Dominions at the beginning whereof said the Prince laying his hand upon the others Arm No Padre Rohose this is not the way this is to Dispute de non concessis But let me give you an account of my Faith and of the Tenents of my Religion first and then if you have any thing to object speak your mind freely Padre Rohose being herewith content as surely he had good reason the Prince began and made him a full and true relation of the Tenents of his Religion which when he had done Rohose replyed Sir do you believe all this Yes said the Prince And will your Highness give me leave said Padre Rohose to affirm this to others from your mouth Yes said the Prince do it boldly for this is the Religion I was born in and bred up in the Religion which is profess'd in my Fathers three Kingdoms and wherein by the Grace of God I am resolved to live and dye Why then said Padre Rohose for ought I know Sir you may be saved as well as I. My blessed King having told me this I asked His Majesty whether Rohose did not object any thing against what His Majesty had said Not at the present replied His Majesty but some few days after he took me aside and began to alledge some trivial things against what he had heard me say to which said the King I gave him such an Answer as I heard no further news of Padre Rohose for a good while whereat marvelling not a little I wonder said the Prince one day in publick why Padre Rohose hath not visited me of late What is become of him To which he was answered by a whisper in the ear That the Priest Rohose was forbidden coming any more to the Prince his Court left instead of his converting the Prince the Prince should convert him I could not omit mentioning this remarkable Passage here since as I said before I had so pat an occasion to do it and since it was to my self that His blessed Majesty was pleased to make this Relation upon the aforesaid occasion And upon the Faith of a Christian and Word of a Gentleman this is the full sence and as near as I can remember the very words His ever blessed Majesty was pleased to do me the honour as to tell me which though they wrought nothing upon me more then what I did formerly know and did confidently believe if they be not able to stop the mouths of those slanderous companions and make them bite out those Tongues wherewith they have indeavoured to throw dirt upon the Memory of His Sacred Majesty yet at least his constant perseverance in the profession and witnessing his Faith at his unpresidented death me thinks should make them do it And now to pursue my Authour again These practises made the French grow cooler as I have
Chamber in defence of the Valtoline which did appertain little or nothing to the Church but spare them for the eminent danger of the State of Urbine which speeches being accompanied with some other favourable Demonstrations to the French did trouble the Spaniards and made them very circumspect in the business of Urbino lest the Pope to make a greater conjunction with the King of France might probably precipitate the business of the Valtoline and yet being naturally very considerate he had two Consultations about the business of the Valtoline of the most conspicuous Theologists of the Court and most exemplary for holiness of life who having discus'd the business were of opinion that the Pope ought not to permit Catholicks to return under the yoke of Hereticks out of the evident danger of their souls which belonging to the Flock of our Saviour Christ it became him according to the Gospel to defend them like a good Shepherd from the Wolves though with the hazard of his own life Thus did the Affairs of the Valtoline alter out of several respects in that Court just like the ebbing and flowing of the Sea and the Pope not being resolved what to do in it that he might hold them both in hand temporized and delai'd his resolution but the French who whilst Gregory lived were quiet when they had a Pope who was their friend began to rouse up and to pretend that the Valtoline the Forts being demolished was to return under the Grisons command nor did they admit of any exception unless that for what concern'd the safety of the Catholick Religion the Pope should be the determiner this they said was dictated by the first Capitulations at Madrid and thus Reason and the King of France his Obligation to Protect the Grifons did require they persisted the more in these pretentions for that they saw their affairs were much altered for in the Spanish Court instead of alliance enmity with the English was increased the Spanish Army in Flanders and all the Forces of those States were busied before Breda a very strong Town of the Hollanders both for Situation Fortification and for its being triple fenced by water the taking of it was held impossible the Siege very long and of uncertain success the Hollanders having raised a strong Army to relieve it The Affairs of that Court had had but bad success in the Indies and in America for Ormuz a very strong Town situated in the mouth of Persia a principal place for Merchandize and of great annual revenue and of greater concernment for the command of the East-Indies was taken by those Barbarians they being assisted by English shipping the Baja de todes santos or All Saints Bay the chiefest staple Town of Brasile being perhaps in pursuance of the League of Avignon assaulted by a Holland Fleet was taken and sack'd which having had booty thâ—…re to the value of above two Millions of Ducates fortified themselves there intending further progress these were two mighty blows to the Crown of Spain which did oblige that King to send a powerful Army as he did to recover them and to boot that the event of these Affairs was uncertain they required great store of shipping multitudes of men and money nor were the wars of Germany yet wholly at an end for many Rebels of the Empire and whose Forces seemed rather to increase then to lessen did molest it in several places for the King of Denmark in conformity to the League at Avignon came into the Field very strong and had made himself head of the Protestant Princes who took up Arms against the Emperour to restore the Palatine to his Patrimonial State and who made great progress in the lower Germany On the contrary the Affairs of France which till now had been full of troubles and civil wars seemed to be brought into a safe Harbour and by several accidents to be in a better condition the King of England having broken the match with Spain had concluded a Marriage between his Son the Prince of Wales and a Sister to the King of France who was yet unmarried and joyning in League with him promised great things against the interest of Spain both by Sea and Land answerable to the League of Avignon and the tumults of France were either totally composed or it was in the Kings power to end them which accidents concurring at the same time were able to incite any Prince to novelties though never so much an enemy thereunto much more the King of France and French Nation who were so far interessed and ingaged in the business of the Valtoline and therefore though after many Consultations had in Rome between the Embassadours of Spain and France of themselves and afterwards with the Pope the Pope put forth at last some Articles touching the security in point of Religion amongst those of the Valtoline whereunto the Embassadour did agree and made others between themselves in their Kings name whereby the Valtoline when the Forts should be demolished was to return to be under the Grisons but with some Articles Conditions and upon pain of Escheat in case of swarving from the agreement and particularly with leave for the King of Spain to pass men thorow it yet the King of France accepting only those that were propounded by the Pope did absolutely refuse those that were agreed upon by the Embassadour and being highly offended with the Commandator Sillery who was his Embassadour he sent Monsieur di Bittune to succeed him and sent for Sillery back to France and did not only deprive him of his favour but removed his Brother who was Lord Chancellor and the Chancellors Son who was Secretary of State together with other of their dependants from their imployments being apprehensive as was said that they held some secret intelligence with the Court of Spain and being incensed against the King of Spain desired the Pope that he would either cause the Forts to be demolished or else restore them to the King of Spain to the end that he might make way to their demolishment without offence to the Apostolick See but the Articles of depositure withstood the demolishing and the restitution was gainsaid for fear of raising new wars between the two Kings so as look with how much more circumspection it became the Pope to proceed in his resolves so much more did the fervency of the French increase who not brooking any delay and seeing things in a way for war furthered the execution of the League and the preparations for all things requisite for what was resolved on But the Marriage which was just at this time in hand between Prince Phileberto of Savoy and Princess Maria Daughter to Francis late Duke of Mantua did either totally hinder or at least retard for the present the effects of so great a combination by which Treaty the Duke of Savoy who if he were not the head was a principal member of this League was diverted from the common Counsels The Spaniards had
Haven at Genoa for any sudden or urgent occasion that may arise which makes very much for the good of the affairs of that Crown by reason of the opportune situation of Genoa which being seated between the Kingdoms of Spain and of those oâ—… Naples and Sicily and being also the Staple to the State of Millain is very convenient for the uniting and preservation of States and Provinces divided so far one from another On the other side the same friendship and good correspondency is a great security and help for the Staâ—…e of Genoa for the singular care which those Kings are forced to have of her preservation not only by the tye of extraordinary Friendship but out of private Interest so as the Commonwealth may with good reason suppose all the Forces and Fleets of that Crown to be always ready to defend her against whosoever shall plot any thing to the prejudice of her or her Liberty he gave the beginning to this so neer conjunction who being the first author of the Commonwealths Liberty deserves to be by her stiled the Father and Free of his Country and fellow Citizens Prince Andrea Doria the best Captain in Sea affair of any in his time and reputed the best for Maritime Forces and experience for Military Valour and happy success wherein the compassion of his afflicted Countries misery prevailing more with him then the great offers and afterwards the anger of the King of France forsaking not without great danger to his own Fortune the French offers and stipends he went over to serve the Emperour Charles the Fifth King of Spain and hoping much in this new conjunction he betook himself with incredible courage and generosity to so glorious an action wherein being very fortunate he proved not only an unexpected safety to his Country which driving out the French he restored to happy and miraculous liberty but gave a great turn to all the affairs of Italy for the fortune of the French which had then the upper hand and was almost victorious began then to decline and that of the Emperour which was then at an ebb began to be raised up for the French mens losing the State of Genoa was immediately followed by their loss of the Kingdom of Naples whereof they were almost fully possessed and being by Dorias resolution robbed of all their best and greatest Maritime Forces and by the revolution of the affairs of Genoa deprived of the opportunity of being succoured by Sea they fell upon sad incounters and not being able to hold out longer were at last forced to abandon the enterprise to the Imperialists who getting to within the walls of Naples the French did not only badly defend the free possession of that Kingdom but lost all hopes of ever regaining it The King of France his enterpriprises in Lombardy and in Piedmont had no better success both then and afterwards Where the conveniency of the State of Genoa being afforded to the Emperour and deny'd to the French was of great moment for the Emperours victory and for the ruine of the French forces insomuch as the French being utterly ruined and the Emperour superiour to all and able to give the Law he built up that grandezza of Fortune to himself and posterity which he injoyed whilst he liveâ—… and which his descendents the Kings of Spain do at the present injoy Doria's name grew very glorious every where for such egregious actions and his Authority was very great in the Commonwealth of Genoa for her re-gained Liberty and his Power was no less great with the Emperour who esteeming it not only a great happiness to have so famous a Commander under his pay and of such valour and experience in Naval Affairs but thinking him also a fit Instrument to make the City and State of Genoa side with him a thing of great imporâ—…ance to his affairs he studied still to keep him his Friend by conferring great Rewards upon him and unusual Honours He therefore made him Lord High Admiral at Sea and seldom dissented from his advice which he valued very much in Land Enterprises And as Doria's power with the Emperour rendred the liberty of the Genoeâ—…es free from being disturbed by so great an Authority as some of the free Cities of Italy were so his authority with his Fellow-Citizens was sufficient to keep the Genoeses constant in their devotion to the Emperour which was the more easily effected for that the affairs of Italy being divided into two Factions the one adhering to the French the other to the Emperour the prevalency of the latter was very opportune and necessary to the Commonwealth to preserve her from the evident danger of being the more opprest by the former the French being the more incens'd against the Genoeses for the great prejudice they had received by their revolution Doria out-lived the Emperour some few years and continuing in the same Employments and Honours under Philip the Second King of Spain and Son to the Emperour he was succeeded by Iohn Andrea Doria Heir not only to his Principality States and Maritime Fortune but also to his Heroick Virtue and singular Piety towards his Countrey who after having served the Crown of Spain in places of great Employment and given good proof of his Valour and Counsel upon all occasions and having kept great sway with his Fellow-Citizens was of no less authority in the Court of Spain in so much as he was preferr'd by Philip the Second in command at Sea before many Competitors and famous Captains of Illustrious Families and discharged the Office of Lord High-Admiral with splendour and magnificence answerable to the authority And as he was a great help and very serviceable to the keeping of the same correspondency between the Crown of Spain and the Commonwealth so was he a no little supporter of his Countreys Liberty in the jealous and troublesome times which did sometimes happen and as the former was honoured by the publick Decree of the Commonwealth with the title of Father and Freer of his Countrey so was he by the like Decree honoured with the title of Conservator of the Liberty thereof After his death for the chief Command at Sea was reserved for the Princes of the Blood Royal his third Son Don Carlo Doria succeeded in the Government of those Gallies which the King of Spain keeps in Genoa for his eldest son being by reason of his private indispositions unfit for Navigation as also his second son Giannettino by reason of his Priesthood he being at the present a Cardinal Archbishop of Palermo and Viceroy of Sicily Which Don Carlo as also Cardinal Giannettino treading in their Forefathers steps proved very advantagious in the service of that Crown to their Countrey and to themselves At the same time almost that the supreme Command at Sea ceased in the Dorian Family new and extraordinary worth arose in the Family of the Spinolas a House of great Alliance and Wealth in the Commonwealth whose worths fomented the same
good correspondency Marquess Ambrosio Spinola and his Brother Frederick both of them being young men and very rich emulating as well the glory and splendour as the virtue and worth of the Dorii and not knowing any more Illustrious Theatre then the Wars made by the Kings of Spain in the Low-Countries against the Hollanders and the United Provinces for the maintaining of Religion and Regal Authority they both of them offer'd to enter upon that warfare upon their own expence the youngest to serve with a certain number of Gallies in the Flemish Ocean and the eldest in Land-service with a great number of men But Frederick being slain in a Naval Battle almost in the beginning of the War could not arrive at that height of Glory which the Marquess his Brother did in a few years who being a great Commander of Armies almost before he was a Souldier and far out-doing the expectation of men most exercised in Military Affairs became in a short time the best Commander of this present age and having the superintendency and absolute management of those Wars given him by the King of Spain he did not only stop but suppress the Fortune of the Enemy which like an impetuous Torrent was like to drown the Kings Authority and the Catholick Religion in those parts Moreover he carried the Spanish Forces into Germany where he did singular good service took many entire Provinces and was as hath been elsewhere saâ—…d a great help to the affairs of Religion and of the then tottering Empire His counsel in civil matters was answerable to his Military Valour for which being admired and reverenced by all Europe he bare also a great sway in the important resolutions of the Court of Spain Thus the Fleets at Sea Armies at Land the most considerable Employments of that Crown having for the most part past through the hands of the Genoeses for almost a whole Age and these drawing over other of their Fellow-Subjects to the Kings service and using them in many useful and honourable Employments appertaining to their Governments it necessarily followed that so much confidence being put by the King in the chiefest Subjects of the Commonwealth and such Honours and Employments conferr'd upon others united the whole Commonwealth of Genoa for ever firm to that Crown Moreover the Squadron of the Kings Gallies which was kept in Genoa were generally commanded by Genoese Captains and served with Officers and Mariners of the same Nation who did not only maintain their houses and families by the Kings pay and by the great emoluments which they got by navigation but did augment their own fortunes This Squadron of Galleys were therefore a great good to the King and to the Commonwealth to the King for that to boot with the conveniency of that Haven which was so fitting for the King of Spain and for his Dominions in Italy it encreased the number of his adherents in Genoa for the Common-wealth for besides the entertaining and employment of so many of her Captains and Citizens and to boot with the advantage of Traffique and Treasure it was of great use to train up her people in maritime skill which Art could not well have been preserved amongst them but upon this occasion and those Galleys being commanded and managed by the Genoeses the Common-wealth had conveniency to make use of them as if they had been her own upon any occasion of her own safety and defence without any the least jealousie for these being added to her own made up almost a compleat Fleet able to oppose the assaults of any enemy but chiefly for that this being one of the best Squadrons of Gallies the Crown of Spain had and being in the power of the Genoeses it must needs be a good pledg of the Kings good will to the Common-wealth The Commeâ—…ce also which the Genoese Mariners have usually in the Kingdoms of Spain Naples Sicily and Sardinia and the Traffique which is very great in the State of Millian and in Flanders doth imploy great part of the meaner sort of the City and State of Genoa who by natural inclination and by reason of the barrenness of their Country are given to Negotiation both by Land and Sea so as there are but very few who for their own peculiar concernments are not very desirous of the prosperity of that Crown But the Contracts or Covenants of the richest and ablest Gentlemen of the Commonwealth doth interest the Genoese Nation with the Crown of Spain the most famous and important contract and of greater concernment for the affairs of Crown then any other which we reade of or have heard The King to keep and maintain his Armies in Flanders Germany and Italy and for maintenance of his Fleet in the Ocean and in the Mediterranean is forced to make many expeditions and send provisions sometimes to one part sometimes to another the Kings Exchequer had not alwaies ready money or in case it had moneys could not with safety and speed be conveyed into those parts where they were to be serviceable but they must either be intercepted by the Enemy or sunk at Sea or come too late to where they were destined which would cause the ruine of the Kings Enterprises and Armies The Genoese Merchants by the great affluence of their riches credit and corespondency which they held in all parts of Europe did abundantly and beforehand supply what was necessary so as in humane bodies the soul and natural heat send forth and supply all the members with necessary nourishment just so in the immense body of so great a Monarchy the Pen of the Genoese as the soul and vital spirit of the King of Spain's Treasure serves the King to convey ready moneys happily safely and speedily whithersoever it is needfull with reciprocal profit and conveniency for the King by making his provisions in good time and speedily secures his Enterprizes wins honour to his Arms by victory and defends his Dominions and the Genoeses get vast gain by the employment of their moneys whereby their private fortunes do exceed that of all other Nations for which advance of moneys they are paid by the King in annual Revenues out of the States and Kingdoms belonging to the Crown as well in Spain as in Italy therefore as this contract is necessary for the main affairs of that King it obligeâ—… him to have a care of the Commonwealth for without the preservation thereof the contract is impossible to be made good and so great a stock of moneys of the Genoeses being imploied in the Kingdoms belonging to that Crown serves the King as a pledge of their good will These are the Ties these are the Bonds of Friendship and conjunction between the Crown of Spain and Commonwealth of Genoa which being confirm'd by process of time and by so many trials grow daily stronger not only for the interests which multiply continually but for the trust and confidence which doth also multiply by the course of years the Kings of
Victuals Ammunition and Men they were said moreover to divide the Commonwealth of Genoa thus amongst them that the City of Genoa and all her River as far as Savona should belong to the King of France that Savona and the rest of the River till you come to Villa Franca should fall to the Dukes share that the number of the French should be between ten and twelve thousand Foot and 1000 Horse and on the Dukes side 15000 Foot and 200 Horse and sufficient provisions of Victuals Ammunition and Artillery the Venetian Embassadour did not joyn in this enterprise against Genoa for that it not being comprehended in the League of Avignon he said he could not consent to this new enterprise without new Orders from his Commonwealth but time being given him to write to Venice aâ—…d to receive resolution from thence he received Orders to conclude in conformity to what was agreed upon by the French and by the Duke This new League being made or reformed in satisfaction to the Duke they proceeded therein with as much privacy as was possible left if it should be known those against whom they were chiefly intended should take up Arms the French professed openly that they would submit to the Popes resolution for what concern'd the Valtoline and that the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 should for bear innovating aâ—…y thing against the Ensign or Garrisons of the Church they affirm'd the same in the Court of Sâ—…in declaring further that the King would attempt nothing to â—…he prejudice of â—…he peace and reciprocal correspondency and the Popâ—… believing their words and promises made not any preparatioâ—… in these so great commotions nor did the Spanish Court confide less in the promise of the Freâ—…ch then the Pope the King of Spain having contracted aâ—…mighty debt by reason of the late wars of the Valâ—…line and of Italy and being obliged to make great provisions of moneys and men for the present wars of Germany Flanders and Brasile the winter season which drew on being incommodious to prosecute waâ—…s already begun much more to commence new wars added to this belief for the meeting aâ—… â—…sa was upon St. Martines day and November was wholly ever before the Consederates appeared to make any preparations and none being able to believe that the French Armies would pass the Mountains that Winter it was thought that the meeting 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 would make more noise then deeds or that it did serve but aâ—… threats to advance the Negotiators parties and conditions but so great aâ—…action could not â—…be kept long concealed for to bâ—… or with 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 at 〈◊〉 which afforded sufficient reason of suspicion the Marquess of 〈◊〉 going to the Swissers and his so long stay amongst them occasioned much jealousie for though he seemed to go thither as 〈◊〉 Embassadour to adjust old accounts between that Nation and the Crown of France yet being always accompanied by the Embassadoâ—… of Venice and Savoy and by the chief of the Grisons who were driâ—… from their own homeâ—… and he being very busie in â—…aising men and in making preparations for war it was judged that he tarried there for more then the business of that Embassie Many Posts were also observed to pass frequently between the Confederates and that much business was in hand the which the less they could be seen into they gave the more occasion of distrust no less shews appear'd on the Venetians behalf in whose Territories but particularly in those of Bergamo and Bressia great preparations were observed to be made of Souldiers Victuals Artillery and Ammunition The people destined for the enterprise of Genoa fell down already from the Alpes into Piedmont and the Duke also levied many men in his State and for the greater sâ—…crecy he kept them in the dales of the Alpes which were neerest Piedmont and the Constable of Dolpheny made great levies of men giving out publickly enough that he would pass over the Mountains with them himself in person The more sollicitous the Confederates were in their proceedings and preparations the State of Millain was the more remiss in theirs which was at this time almost wholly unprovided and unarmed for the King not being contented to have appeased the minds of the discontented Princes by depositing the Forts oâ—… the Valtoline but the more to satisfie them and to remove all jealousies from them of being infested and consequently to take away all occasions of new troubles he had ordered the Duke of Feria to send all the men he could into Flanders and he to obey him had sent 6000 Foot and 800 Horse thither a few moneths before the Diet at Susa and had moreover sent Cavalier Pecchio's Brigade to Winter in Sardignia but Feria finding afterwards that this his shewing himself to be inclined to peace was not able to withhold the Counsels and Resolves of the League but that it did rather hasten the execution thereof he advertised the Court of Spain thereof desiring orders and provisions to prepare against the insuing storm This advertisement though confirm'd from other parts was not credited in that Court but he and Don Sanchio de Monry Marquess of Castagneda who succeeded Vives in the Embassie at Genoa having inform'd the King by Letters of the great danger wherewith the State of Genoa was threatened and how ill they were provided to defend themselves the King writ to the Commonwealth offering her all his Forces both by Sea and Land for her defence The Commonwealth which besides what she â—…ad already done proceeded to make great provisions were it either that she belâ—…eved too much in them or that she would stand upon her honour with the Court of Spain or that she thought it dangerous to bring the Kings Auxiliary Forces into her Dominions writ back giving a large account of what provisions she had already made and what she was to make seeming as if she needed no succour by which the Court of Spain argued that the Agents in Italy did amplifie the danger more then they had reason for But Feria finding the danger to grow every day greâ—…ter and to draw neerer and despairing of being able to make the Court take order for assistance he thought he was bound to do it himself he therefore recalled Pecchio's Brigade from Sardignia he gave order for another to Count Giovan Serbellone together with some Horse companies he desired and obtained a Brigade from the Duke of Parma and another from the Duke of Mâ—…dena he could get no more from Naples save one only Brigade and some Troops of Horse for the Viceroy hearing of the English Fleet would not unfurnish the Kingdom of many men and casting it up that these men being numbred into the usual Garrison of the State they would not amount to 16000 Foot and 2000 Horse he knew they would not be sufficient to defend the State and to succour Genoa and the Valtoline if as it was feared they should be assaulted all at once he therefore betook himself to think upon Forreign Forces
Arsenal of Venice built certain Boats and Brigantines and putting them armed into the water he made himself master of the little Lake and of the Channel by which Boats came with Victuals and Ammunition to those of Riva remedies were found for both these inconveniences for Count Iovanni sent men to Riva who taking from the French the Fortifications which they had possess'd themselves off made the way open and rendred that pass free for Provisions and Succour and the Duke of Feria having also sent for experienced Ship-wrights and Mariners from Genoa he also put other Barques and Brigantines into the River which beâ—…ng well armed and man'd and some pieces of Artillery being placed in fitting palces upon the side of the Lake kept the way open as well by Water as by Land for Victuals and other Provisions and forthwith freed la Riva from being besieged but Coure's men being this mean while much recruited by more men and moneys sent by the Venetians who desired to see that Enterprise ended to the end that when the French should fall upon the State of Millain they might also assault it on their side and new Regiments of Souldiers being come unto him from the Swissers and Grisons Feria being very careful to defend that pass sent 2000 of those Dutch thither who came fiâ—…st to the State of Millain which hapned very opportunely for Coure being thus recruited would needs go to assault la Riva and do his utmost to take it and he found the Defendants also recruited who marching into the Field encountered the Enemy in a little Plain beyond Nova and fought them the Combate was very fierce and stoutly fought on all sides and the French being often times recruited the Fight continued till night upon the coming on whereof the French were forced to retreat with the loss of many of their men and could not only not come neer Riva but forsaking Campo withdrew into their Quarters about Vico and Vercei which were lower and farther distant from Riva These happy successes afforded the Duke of Feria breath he thought himself so safe from assaults on that side as he might have more leasure to think upon the affairs of Genoa in the freeing whereof the Victory in all parts did depend but the delay of the Dutch was a great hinderance to it which did proceed not only from the endeavours to the contrary of the Confederates and of the French but also from the avarice of the Cantons who were to permit them to pass who being Creditors to the Crown of Spain for pay denied them passage till they were paid their Arraers and the Governour being in great want of money much time was required to get the moneys wherewith to satisfie them before the coming of the Gallies from Spain to Genoa nor would they grant them free passage when they were satisfied as they had granted to the French but with many limitations which caused much delay and the Governour being much sollicited by the Genoeses whom he could not please before the arrival of the Dutch he made use of appearance instead of effects for making all things ready for marching he went from Millain to Pavia giving out that he would go to relieve Genoa and here according to what was published he was very diligent in making all requisite provisions for that succour and for the people who came daily from Genoa a shew which was very seasonable and which was thought did much detain the Enemies proceeding who seeing him ready to march could not without apparent danger to themselves keep their Quarters much less could they advance to their Enterprise to the home and neighbouring provisions which secured the Genoeses forreign and further distant accidents were added which though far enough off yet made much for their main business Don Frederico di Tolledo who was gone with a powerful Fleet to recover Brafile return'd at this time victorious into Spain and Marquess Spinola after nine moneths Siege took Breda in the defence and preservation whereof not only the Hollanders did labour with all their Forces but the Kings of France England Swethland and Denmark so as the Fleet which was return'd from Brasile was a strong defence to the Mediterranean against the English and the Flemish Fleets if entring the Mediterranean they should make for Genoa so also the Flanders Army being freed from besieging Breda might commodiously and without any impediment go whither it listed and keep France in j alousie which was then rent and disturbed with home discords and when the affairs of Genoa wherein that Crown was so concern'd should require it it was sufficient by molesting that Kingdom on that side to divert France from offending the Genoeses and the King of Spain being quite of these two impediments might imploy greaâ—…er Forces in defence of the State of Genoa to boot with these two Forreign accidents whereby the conditions of the affairs of Genoa were bettered three others which hapned neerer hand did much impair the affairs of the Confederates Army the one was that the Victuals and Provisions in the English Fleet were corrupted then when it was ready to put to Sea for Italy so as it was foced to tarry some moneths to take in new Provisions another that the Hereticks in France began again to tumultuate and the King being necessitated to quench the fire which was kindled in his own house could not furnish fuel to mantain combustion abroad the third that the Duke of Guise who was to put with his Fleet from Marcelles notwithstanding the 150000 Ducates taken from the Genoeses and other moneys which the Duke of Savoy furnished him with upon this account proceeded slowly in his preparations and could not put to Sea according to appointment therefore the Duke of Savoy and the Constable failing in the chief ground-works of their Enterprise and seeing the Enemies preparations to increase both in Genoa and in the State of Millain they were forced to think more upon their own safeties then upon the ruine of others The inward discords of their own Army was also a great break-neck to their affairs which keeping about Gavio Ottaggio and the neighbouring parts uncertain and not resolved what to do began to want Victuals the Country being barren and those spent which were in the Army at its first appearing and at the taking of Ottaggio for they could not hope for any from the State of Millain now that it was provided of Souldiers and very little came from Piedmont by reason of the length of the Journey the difficulty of the Guides and Conducts and by the hindrances they met with by the Montserrians who being irritated and angred at the ill usage they received from the Army as it passed through their Country declared themselves fierce Enemies hindring their Conducts killing the Conductors and all such Souldiers who to get rid of the sufferings of the Camp retired either into France or Piedmont The trocb'es were no less which they received from the Pozzeveraschy
Recruits of men victuals and munition at the same time that they should come to Savona and that landing a great many men they would keep between Savona and Genoa out of a double end The one to keep relief from Genoa the other that they might play upon the City with their great Guns from Sea whilst it should be assaulted by the land Army and so to facilitate the surrender of Savona And to this purpose Prince Victorio had given the Duke of Guise 40000 Ducates when having taken La Riviera he was in Ventimiglia Upon these so sleight and weakly-laid foundations they would once more try their fortune Thus leaving their Quarters they marched through Montferrat towards Acqui whither they came within a few days without any disturbance For the Genoeses being more desirous to preserve Savona then to fall upon them in the Reer sent all their men thither Nor could the Governour of Millain who was come to Alessandria fall upon them as they retreated though he intended so to do For being got on Horseback to that end and being ready in Arms with his forces as he was saluted according to the Military manner by a Dutch Company his Horse rose up on end at the noise of the Musquet shot and threw the Governour who was somewhat corpulent down so as he was forc'd to keep his bed for some days Thus their Retreat proved fortunate though between two enemies Armies yet as the Reer was bringing up some small pieces of Artillery with about 800 Horse they had a bickering with some Troops of Horse which were quartered in Sesse a Town of Alessandria which is upon the way by which the Reer passed The Encounter was gallant and stoutly fought the Spanish Horse were fewer in number but coming to blows had the better of the enemy with little loss unto themselves for the French Horse had only breast-plates on and the Spaniards were armed at all pieces so as they slew and wounded the enemy without being hurt themselves Being at last dis-intangled and got loose they retreated commodiously The Army being come to Acqui and persevering in their intended march to Savona they destin'd Acqui though it were very weakly walled for a Rendezvouz for their Arms and for a safety on their backs wherefore leaving 3000 of their best Souldiers there in Garison with all the Ammunition and provision they could bring from Gavio they march'd on with the rest which were not above 8000 towards Savona When they were come to Spigno a Town which stands in the mid-way they made Prince Victorio and Marshal Crickey advance with part of their men to Cairo which was defended by 250 Neopolitans and playing upon it with some small Pieces of Artillery they after having made two shot took it upon Articles But the Governour having recovered his â—…all and finding that they march'd on still towards Savona held it now no longer time to stand idle nor to suffer that Town to be taken whilst he and his Army looked on which being of such importance to the State of Genoa was also a great concernment to the Crown of Spain Setting therefore all other respects aside he went out of Alessandria with 22000 Foot all very good men and with 5000 able Horse and marched towards Acqui whether being come he forthwith possest himself of all the eminent parts thereabouts and planted his Batteries which caused such terrour in the French who saw how weak their Rampiers were and that the Citizens would not for theâ—…r sakes run the hazard of being sack'd parleyed presently and agreeing to march out the Souldiers only with their Swords and Daggers and the Officers with their Horse and Baggage ' but upon obligation to return into France by the Country of the Vallesani lest they might return to the Army 2300 Foot marched out many who through great weakness were not able to go staying behind They found 17 Banners left there 500 Barrels of powder many Sacks of Victuals many Cannon Bullets Arms and artificial Fire-works and which was more remarkable the Dukes Wardrobe wherein were rich Liveries for Pages and Foot-men Saddles Bridles and other Furniture for Horses all very richly wrought and Moveables to a great value which the Duke had provided thinking assuredly to enter in triumph into Genoa So far had this Prince suffered himself to be transported by his aspiring imagination The Duke and Constable finding by the loss of Acqui which they heard of in Spigno the falshood of the Report that the Spanish Forces would not move for fear of disturbing the union and friendship of the two Crowns they were astonished seeing in what danger they were of being assaulted by two enemies Armies being inclosed between them amidst those Cliffs The Duke hearing the news got immediately on Horse-back and leaving the care of all things wholly to the Constable went with some few Gentlemen towards Piedmont The Constable seeing himself abandoned termed the Dukes departure down right running away and complained of his being left to manage the business himself alone and speedily calling back the Marshal from Cairo with whom came also Prince Victorio they went altogether to Bistagno where there being a Garison they were received without any withstanding But being aware that the Governour did advance with part of his forces to fall upon them in that place and that he had sent another part thereof to hinder their retreat and victuals they resolved to get out of those streights and to get into the open fields of Piedmont The Retreat being thus resolved upon the Constable and the Marshal heading the Van wherein were about 2000 Foot and almost all the Horse they parted early in the morning and marching apace they came without disturbance to Canelli The Prince kept in the Reer wherein were the bâ—…st men and making the Artillery advance he also retreaâ—…ed leaving the place to the enemy who ere he was well got out entred Bâ—…stagnano and pursued him without any intermission so fast as being got near unto him upon the going to of the day in the Valley of Munâ—…stero they faced one another within Musquet shot Some small Skirmishes passed here which the night parted without much loss or advantage to either side The mean time the Prince being careful of the Artillery and other incumbrances which he had much ado to get up the Mountains made great diligence be made in the climbing up and at the same time minced his own defence against the enemy who were at his heels But hearing that at last the Artillery was got to the Mountains top he also retreated thither without any trouble for the enemy having no order to fight nor to advance retreated to Bistagno and suffered them to retreat quietly into Canelli where he was received by his Father and by the Constable with great applause who had been in great anxiety for him The Governour would have made use of the present occasion and would have assaulted the Reer and taken away all the Artillery and
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
house of Bavaria which State and Dignity being forfeited by the Prince Elector Palatines Rebellion were for some years before confer'd by the Emperor upon this Duke of Bavaria the occasion which moved this Prince to this resolution was commonly attributed to jealousie of the peace made at this time at Madrid between the Kings of Spain and England for knowing that the King of Spain was displeased at the conâ—…erring of the Electoral State and Dignity upon him and that the authority and power of the house of Bavaria should be so encreased and that he had opposed the Emperour in conferring it upon him and knowing that the King of England whose Sister was Wife to the Palatine labour'd hard that the Palatine or his Son might be restored to their former condition he thought he had just occasion to doubt that the Peace made between the two Kings who were for several respects desirous to deprive him of it might tacitely contain some Agreement between them to his pâ—…ejudice And on the other side having soon after that Peace was concluded sent the Abbot Scaglia into England in appearance to treat of Truce and Peace in the Kings Name with the Hollanders but in effect to treat oâ—… a League against him as he complain'd and as the King of France had heard therefore both Bavaria and the King of France easily joyn'd in this Convention for their own safeties sake and that they might make plots not inferiour to those that were plotted against him And that they might the better alienate the Bavarian from the Emperour the Kings of France and of Sweden promised him the Imperial Crown whereof when the Emperour should be beaten no Germane Prince seemed to be more capable then he as being the most powerful of all the Catholick Princes and who had most care of the Catholick Religion and for that he as one of the Electors had a Vote in chusing the Emperour and his Brother who was Elector and Arch-bishop of Collen another Vote with whom the Arch-bishop and Elector of Triers would joyn who was the first that had joyned in League with the King of France and had received a French Garrison into that State particularly into the Fort of Hermenestein a strong Fort and of great consequence being scituated where the Mose falls into the Rheyne The Votes of the Electors of Saxony and Brandenburg who were declared Enemies to the House of Austria and who depended upon the Swedish King would likewise have concurr'd in the same Election when the Bavarian should be by that King promoted to the Empire as he â—…ad promised The Duke being therefore â—…ed with these hopes and apprehending that the Austrians would deprive him of the Palatinate and Electoral Dignity and that they would restoreâ—…it to the Palatine totteâ—…'d in his intelligence with the Emperour and met with a new accident which gave him more and better reason to alienate himself from the Emperour The Emperour being reduc'd to great streights by the Swedish Forces by the rising of so many people and by his being deserted by so many Germane Princes had as hath been elsewhere said for the last remedy of the imminent danger the Empire was then in which also threatned him sent for Wallestine Duke of Fritland and had once more made him general of all his Forces for he was the only man on whom it was thought the welfare of the Empire might saâ—…eliest depend There had been such high distastes between this Wallestine and Bavaria as the Bavarian in the Diet of Ratisbone had been the chief cause of his being laid aside and doubtlesly had the Bavarian openly declared against the Emperour and had adhered to the contrary Parties the Affairs of the Empire would have been but badly sustained But were it either that he received such assurances from the Emperour as took from him all distrust or that his hopes of attaining the Empire seemed but small especially since both the Kings who offered and promised it unto him were known to be ambitious of it themselves or that he was at last wisely aware that the two Kings did desire to separate him from the House of Austria only that they might weaken it and so the more easily suppress it whereupon his ruine would assuredly succeed he medled not with any novelty but stood firm and constant in defence of the Catholick Religion and of the Imperial Majesty To this was added that the chief ends of the two Kings and of all the German Pâ—…nces was to restore the Palatine to his former state and dignity whereof they were much more troubled then was the King of Spain to seâ—… Bavaria master He therefore had no reason to trust them in what was directly contrary to the end of the common Arms and to the universal desire and consent of whole Germany which for the common concernment could not see the Palatine devesâ—…ed of his Dominion and Bavaria indued theâ—…ewith and as it might be supposed that the two Kings out of these respects did promise that unto him which they could not possibly effect so it might also be comprehended that the same Bavaria seemed to make league and union with the two Kings so to keep the Austrians from depriving him of the State and Dignity which they had confer'd upon him so uncertain and fallacious are the unions and confedeâ—…acies of Princes In this wavering condition were the Affairs of Germany whereof the King of France seemed to be become no lesse Arbitrator then of those of Italy for the Swede differ'd much from him in point of Authority and profes'd to depend much thereupon notwithstanding all the victories he had gotten and all the happy course of his prosperity and the King of France his being deeply ingaged in the affairs of Germany took him much off from the Wars of Italy whereat though the Governour of Millain and the Spanish Agents were much troubled fearing his Forces which they saw were received into the Towns of Italy yet did not his Forces do any thing after the assignment of Pinarollo all things passing quietly on unless it were the preparations and several levies of men the Spaniards being obliged to keep greater Garrisons upon occasion of Pinarollo Cassalle and Mantua The new Duke of Mantua though peacefully possess'd of his States was not at all happy in injoying them for not to mention the troubles which he past thorough the monies spent and the dangers which he ran in arriving at the succession thereof his Dominions were so lessened so dismembred so consumed and wasted both in men and monies as his need of assistance from other Princes to maintain them was greater then the authority or Grandure that he got by them and having ingaged his Lands in France in defending and maintaining his Dominions in Italy he lost the advantage of both his chiefest Towns being possess'd by others he had little more then the bare name of Principality left him Nor was he in a more free and absolute condition of Prince
to the way of his predecessors obsequie and devotion they made him stray the farther out of it for when mention was sometimes made of this Prince in that Court they would talk of his elder Brother who being a natural fool was declared incapable of succession sometimes they took Don Octavio into consideration another elder Brother of the Dukes made legitimate though a fool and inabled to succeed in the Principality when his Father Duke Ranutio had not nor hoped not for any lawful heirs which things were brought upon the board rather to threaten the Duke with the doubt of succession if he should persist in these novelties then that there was any thought to put them in practice and Duke Alexander Grand-father to the present Duke having done homage to King Philip the Second when the Citadel of Piacenza was restored to him by the said Philip and having been invested therewith upon condition that he should keep a Governour there in whom the Crown of Spain might confide he thought that the King might have some pretence or colour to be judge in the controverted succession and that he might see his sentence perform'd by force of Arms when he should by the Dukes comportments be constrained to renew those things touching the succession which should he persevere in his forefathers devotion would be laid aside This medling with a part so sensible and which could by no means endure to be handled occasioned quite contrary effects to what was imagined for the Conde Duca who having framed such conceits forbare not upon occasion to speak of them openly whereas he thought thereby to suppress the eager desires of this Prince found afterwards that they served for bellows to make flame higher for the Duke thinking that the Court of Spain meant under these pretences to make use of these â—…etters grew so inraged as any the least commotion he heard of in the State of Millain much more the taking up of Arms by the Duke of Feria and by the Infanta moved him beyond measure as if they had been undoubtedly prepared for his ruine so as the fear of losing those possessions he had being added to the hopes he had fancied unto himself of augmenting them by joyning in League with the King of France he began to raise men for his own defence to munite his Forts and to hold closer intelligence with the King of France that he might the better secure himself against such threats and raising his thoughts yet higher being big with conceit of the liberty of Italy he like another Charles Emanuel did so zealously covet the beating down of the Spanish Empire as not only one but many Charles Emanuels seemed in all mens opinions to be risen up in this young Prince and his actions shewed in the progress of time that Count Fabio was not the Author of these sprightly counsels but that they were the proper and natural conceptions form'd in the Dukes own Idea The Alienation of this Prince and of the Duke of Modena though they were none of the greatest in Dominions nor in Forces did notwithstanding discompose the affairs of Spain in Italy and were of no small moment to the safety of the State of Millain Commerce by Land being totally separated by their States from between the Kingdom of Naples and the State of Millain which was so necessary for the conveyance of Horse which could not be carried by Sea without much inconvenience in which case the State and Havens of Genoa which by reason of the good correspondency between the Crown of Spain and that Commonwealth had formerly been a safe landing for the Spaniards being now become doubtful as shall hereafter be said by reason of the bad satisfaction which many of the Genoese Citizens received from the Court of Spain or not safe by reason of the French Fleets which were upon the Mediterranean and the Valtoline being in the hands of the French Italy and the State of Millain were subject to be invaded by their Armies so as the affairs of Spain were subject to manifest danger and strange events The Spaniards therefore apprehending what might happen strove to re-gain at least the Duke of Modena who drew along with him the Lord of Mirandola who depended much upon him for if Modena should be wrought upon Commerce with the Kingdom of Naples was sufficiently secured since his State confined on the one side with the State of Bollognia on the other with that of Crema so as Horse which are not usually denied passage by the Popes through Romagna entring thereby into the Dukedom of Bollognia and from thence into that of Modena they may enter into the Territoriâ—…s of Cremona and from thence into the State of Millain without touching upon Parma Don Francisco di Melo one of the chief of the Nobility of Portugal descended from the noble house of Braganza and consequently famous for birth but more for worth and dexterity and great abilities which he had in the concernments of Italy where he had lived long with the title of Embassador in extraordinary from the King of Spain in the Commonwealth of Genoa was return'd now with title of Embassadour in extraordinary to the Princes of Italy wherefore being thought a fit Instrument for such a business by Cardinal Albornoiz he was sent to Modena and to Mirandola where having treaâ—…ed successfully with both the Princes he deviated the intelligence which both of them had contracted with the French the Lord Mirandola was by agreement made with the King of France to have received shortly a French Garrison into Mirandola but Melo withdrew him from those treaties and reduced him under the perpetual protection of the Crown of Spain and he prevail'd so much with the Duke of Modena as foregoing also the treaty of League with France which was already either concluded or neer concluding he made him joyn in League with the Crown of Spain upon condition that he should forthwith send his Brother Prince Reynaldo who was afterwards Cardinal to defend the State of Millain with a Brigade of Modeneses and on the other side deliver'd him possession of Correggio which had been the reason why that Duke had been displeased with the Crown of Spain he moreover promised him in the Kings name many honours and dignities upon which promiseâ—… the Duke ere long went to Madrid where he was honourably received and made General of the Ocean with a stipend of 24000 Crowns a year The great Duke of Tuscany either was not desired by the French to enter into the League or being desired refused it was not to be feared that he would enter into new Counsels were it either that with the wisest he did think them good for the common good or were it for that being Son to a Sister of the present Emperour he thought himself in honour interessed in what concern'd the Austrian Family which was the cause why in the late wars of Mantua and Montferrat he had openly declared for the Austrians and
holding the State of Sienna in Fee from the Crown of Spain upon obligation to succour the State of Millain with a certain number of men he could not well joyn in Confederacy with other Princes against the said State and therefore soon after the war was begun upon the same Melo's going to him he entred into League with the Crown of Spain which was after establish'd by his Secretary Dominico Pandolfini and sworn unto in defence of that State and was bound to send the Brigade of Foot which he was to have sent to the State of Sienna and which was accordingly sent under the Marquess Camillo dal Monte and moreover he of his meer will and pleasure obliged himself to pay 4000 Swissers and to send 500 Horse which he soon did under the Marquess Ricciardi for which noble and generous action the King made Iovan Carlo Brother to the said Duke and who was afterwards Cardinal Supream General of all his Majesties Fleets in the Mediteranean the French therefore had no hopes of prevailing with that State They thought they might build more safely upon the State of Genca by reason of the displeasure which many of those Citizens at this time conceived from the Court of Spain by means whereof they thought they might divert that Common-wealth from that good corâ—…espondency which so many years had been held between her and the Crown of Spain so happily And that it may be known how this dissatisfaction hapned it will be necessary that repeating somewhat that hath already been touch'd we make a particular discourse thereupon the which may serve not so much to acquaint the present Age with what hath hapned in these our times as the future The Common-wealth had held for an undoubted Maxime of State that the King being concern'd in that State by reason of her negotiations with that Crown should stand for ever well affected to the liberty thereof And the King likewise out of the same considerations was of the same opinion that the Common-wealth should alwayes stand well affected to his Crown From this conformity of opinion did that perfect and affectionate correspondency result which made them never weary of assisting one another reciprocally and a whole Age of experienced happiness being past there was nothing done either by the Spaniards or Genoese whereâ—…n the dignity of that Crown and the preservation of the Common-wealths liberty was not joyntly intended The Genoese allowed the Kings of Spain to maintain a great number of Gallies in the Haven of Genoa whereby those Kings kept their Dominions in Italy joyn'd to their Kingdomes of Spain which were so far divided both by Sea and Land Passage was granted easily at the request of that Crown by the Genoese through their Common-wealth Those Kings made use of the Genoeses in their Affairs and Imployments of greatest importance trusting them with the supream command of their Fleets at Sea and of their Armies by Land being enlivened by this nearness and affiance the Genoese brought home all that by their industry and negotiation they had formerly gotten in several of the parts of the world into the States and Dominions belonging to that Crown And the richest and wealthiest of them having imployed their riches and fortunes in the service thereof were both a great help to the Spaniards and received much honour and advantage thereby By these mens industry those Kings turn'd all the Indian merchandize into Gold and they conveyed not only the Spaniards Gold but their own and the like of all Europe whither soever the occasions of that Crown required as oft as the treasures of America came not time enough or were not sufficient to supply them And all things went succesfully by reason of the credit and great correspondency which they had gotten in all the world by their real and punctual proceedings a most happy Age wherein nothing was contended for between so great a King and the Common-wealth but reciprocal zeal and passion how to serve each other The War made these late years by the Duke of Savoy wherein he was assisted by France against the Common-wealth added new and stricter tyes to this so great an union wherein the King having been very ready and zealous to defend and preserve the Common-wealth she found she had not placed her hopes of preservation formerly in vain in the union of that Crown for the Common-wealth finding her self abandoned in those necessities by all the Princes of Italy nay by the Pope himself not without apparent scandal she found no Arms ready to fence her self against so great a Tempest but those of Spain which coming in both by Sea and Land to her assistance the Common-wealth being assisted only by the Forces of Spain was able so to withstand the Assaulters as she had the better of the business by all which successes the King and all his friends might easily perceive that the joyning of the French Forces to those of Savoy against the Common-wealth was not only to resent the buying of Zuccharello but to bound the Austrian greatness and to begin the abasing thereof in the ruine of Genoa and that likewise the fall of that Common-wealth was not affected by the Rebublicks and chief Princes of Italy for any other end save only that holding her to be too cordially united to the interests of that Crown they thought they could not safely build upon her for those ends which they were intent upon which were to pull down the Spanish Grandezza the preheminency whereof they could not see and patiently suffer So as the ones security and the others greatness which were apparently practised against being joyned to the reciprocal advantagious bonds of such an union it seemed that no future chance could interrupt it But the felicity of this world is not so secure but that when it is come to the height it declines for the storm which troubled Genoa was not well over when on the sudden the so well grounded union was disturb'd and indangered it is hard to penetrate into the true and intrinsecal cause of this change of this Scene But the Spaniards thinking that they had merited exceeding much of the Genoese by the assistance which they had given them pretended mighty matters from them which not being granted neither by the publick nor by the private persons begot ill blood in them and particularly in the Conde Duca who was of a high spirit one who naturally abhor'd ancient customes inclined to novelties no wayes desirous to give satisfaction to such Princes as were friends to the Crown and chiefly not to the Genoese Neglecting therefore that good correspondency which Charles the fifth and Philip the second and the third had still endeavoured to preserve he began on the sudden and under colour of the emptiness of the Kings Exchequer to seiase upon their riches which by reason of their greatness being become odious in that Court were also esteemed hurtful and prejudicial as if they had been accumulated by wasting the Kings
Genoa with his own squadron and other Spanish Gallies understanding that the Enemies Fleet was come to anchor at Mentone a place not far off belonging to the jurisdiction of Monaco made towards them and appearing before them about break of day began to shoot at them and after having hit them with many Cannon shot returned to the Haven of Vai from whence he was come These Spanish Gallies kept still in some of the Havens in the Sea of Genoa to the number for the most part of 40 and though both the Fleets profess'd to bear all respect to the Common-wealth and not to do any act of Hostility against either other whilst they kept within the Havens of the Common-wealth and did effectually make good their professions yet not satisfied with the exact cautiousness of the Militia they attentively observed the wayes of one-another lest they might be taken unawares where they could not evade danger in so neer neighbourhood and more particulary the Spanish as being weaker both for number and quality of vessels and consequently more subject to misfortunes They therefore were extraordinarily diligent in learning the first motions of the Enemy and to this purpose to boot with much diligence on land they kept Feluccaes and other vessels at high sea by which by fires at night and by smoak in day time they were continually advertised which way the Enemy went And yet the Spanish Fleet was one day in very great danger of being sunk or taken This Fleet stay'd one whole night in the Haven at Vai knowing that the other lay in the Haven at Alassio not above thirty miles off from whence the French Fleet put to sea and favour'd by the darkness of the night undiscovered by the Sentinels they upon break of day appeared so neer Vai as had not the Spanish Gallies cut their Cables and speedily put to Sea the French Fleet could never have got a more famous victory They got away in so good time as they past all safe away and escaped the Enemies hands These two Fleets kept long neer one another in the bosom of the State of Genoa without coming to a dispute but the French finding at last that they got but little good and less honour by staying here that they might not return to France without having done any thing worthy so great a preparation and such threats they resolved to assault Sardignia whither they hoped to come unexpected and unlooked for by the Inhabitants so as they might do some good there And coming to land in the desolate Haven of Orestano a City no less desolate in Sardignia then was her Haven and little inhabited by reason of the malignity of the air they entred thereinto on the Saturday in the time of Carnivale when the Inhabitants dreaming of nothing less then of being assaulted by so many ships were more busie in feasting and revelling after the manner of the Carnivale then in defending themselves Wherefore being terrified they fled most of them to within land those who stay'd behind sent some to the ships to know what they did intend Answer was made that they intended to take the City and to keep it till such time as the King of Spain should restore the Islands which he had taken in Provence so they landed their men and entred the City the next day which was almost abandoned by those few Inhabitants which there remained where they refreshed themselves with those good things which they found ready there to make a good Carnivale But two dayes after armed men began to appear upon the neighbouring hills who skirmish'd with them and the French being therein worsted they fearing that the numbers of the Enemy might increase they retreated the second day of â—…ent not without some loss both of men and reputation to winter in Provence When the Commanders of the Spanish Fleet heard this they finding that Winter was already begun did also disband their Fleet sending some squadrons to winter in Spain some in Genoa some in Naples and Sicily till they might put to sea with more safety the next spring But the French Fleet about the beginning of March 1637. went together with many of the Nobility and Souldiery to recover the Islands and having possess'd themselves of the convenientest passes to keep off any succour that might be brought they might see a great ship which passing thorough with a fore-wind by the Fleet entred into the little neck of water which divides the two Islands and thinking to be safe there amongst Friends was the next night wholly burnt Count Monterei had sent it from Naples loaded with Victuals Munition and all things necessary for the maintenance of the Islands it brought also 40 peeces of Artillery for the Vice-roy being glad that the Kings Forces had at last got good footing there and hoping that the crown would be much advantaged and Provence much prejudiced thereby had a special care to keep them But Count Harcourt Generall of the Fleet fearing what was true despairing to recove the Islands if that ship should land her provisions sent one of the fiâ—…e-ships full of powder and artificial fire-works which was in the Fleet which entring by night where the ship was fasten'd her self with grapling-irons to the ship and giving fire to the train the Mariners got out of the fire-boat into a schiff which was behind her and retreated without any harm to the Fleet. The fire took soon hold and quickly devoured the ship and all that was in it some few escaping who threw them selves into the Sea So as the Garrisons in the Island missing of those supplies could continue defence the lesser while the which they notwithstanding drew out a long while by reason of the many Forts Trenches and other works which were well munited so as the French were to win them by inch-meal They assauted S ta Margherita first which resisted stoutly a long while The ships accosted it and with their Cannon beat down the first rampiers which were erected to keep them from landing they then landed their men but not without much effusion of blood and having taken some small works they came before Fort Monterei which was munited with four bastions together with their ditches and two half moons the French thought they should meet with stout resistance there and therefore wondred very much when they saw it abandoned ere assaulted for the Defendants were retired to a neighbouring Fort which was greater then all the rest and was called a Fort Royal and flanked with five Bulwarks in the midâ—… whereof was a Tower which in that Island served for a Fortification The French being Masters of Fort Monterei began to draw a trench cross the Island wherein they might the more safely lodge then coming before the Fort Royal and other smaller Forts they endeavoured to take them many were the assaults and many the Sallies which were made the oppugners behaved themselves like good Warriours and the Defendants like good Souldiers and that
they might prosecute more commodiously according as the several inconveniences lessened and this the rather for that they were comforted in these their sufferings by being certain that they should not be disturb'd by any considerable succours they knew that there were no Forces in Piedmont to draw into the field and the last years Army as hath been said was almost quite extinguished and the same rigour of the season withstood bringing of new supplies from France to boot with the urgent occasions of Wars in Catalonia Flanders and Germany wherewith that Kingdom was opprest Moreover the Governour judging that the Castle was not over-well provided with Victuals thought rather to take it by Famine after the first skirmishes and batteries then by the sword and the defendants were of the like mind who being left by the Duke of Longuevllle and by Prince Thomaso in great hopes of being relieved and wanting Ammunition wherewith to maintain fight they held it better to spare those few that yet were left till such time as the undoubted succour should come to the end that they then might assault the besiegers on their backs and facilitate the succourers approach to the Castle so as the Governour forbore batteries and they forbore sallies Thus a kind of tacite truce and suspension of Arms seemed to be agreed upon between them The Governour when he first resolved upon this enterprise though he could not be disturb'd by new succours from without for the aforesaid Reasons and therefore though he had begun the line of circumvolurion on the outside yet thinking it better at the present to streighten the Castle with Trenches so to keep them from sallying out he gave over the line and applied himself wholly in muniting and fortifying himself against the Castle but he failed in his account for the Governours falling upon Tortona being known in Piedmont and in France both thâ—…se places resolved to prepare for defence of that place which they had gotten wherefore they began to make ready a great and gallant succour Men and Moneys were sent by Sea and Land from France for this enterprise those which were sent by Sea landed in Oneglia that they might go from thence to Piedmont where in a short time there was a strong and well munited Army put together which caused the Governour to alter his mind who thought that the Victory would consist chiefly in keeping out succour wherefore he began to re assume the working of the other line of circumvolution which was already commenc'd as hath been said about the Walls of the City which was full four miles in compass and was begirt with Ditches flanks with Forts munited with Stoccadoes and Fortifications both within and without the Work surrounded both the Castle and the City serving to keep the City from being assâ—…ulted from without and the Castle from relief if any should be brought the outermost houses of the City towards the Castle were well munited and the Streets mouths which led unto the Castle were stop'd up with earth which served for a fence against the Castle on the inside and not content with all this diligence and provision the Governour strove to keep succourâ—…s far from the Castle as he could To this purpose he sent 500 Horse towards the Frontiers of Montferrat not only that they might keep back the succour which might come by Piedmont but also that by laying the Country waste they might keep the relievers from accommodations if they should advance by that way nor did these diligences prove vain for Monsieur Plessis Pralin the King of France his Lieutenant General in Piedmont and the Marquess Villa appeared together about the midst of March in the year 43 with 2500 Horse and 5000 Foot and advanced to St. Salvadore within five miles of Alessandria and Prince Thomaso passing over the Dora with 1000 Horse and 2000 Foot threatned Novara and the adjoyning parts wherefore the Governour for the better security of those parts had sent the Marquess Caracena thither with a good strength of Horse and some Foot most whereof were taken out of the meaner sort of people of that State that he might observe what way the Enemy went and cross his designs but the Prince returning quickly to Cassalle and joyning with the French and Piedmontese Army told them they must cast a Bridge over the Tanaro wherefore Caracena by Orders from the Governour went from the Novarese to Alessandria to open that way and to keep the Bridge from being cast over but the Prince finding himself opposed by Caracena desisted from his design and passing back over the Poe at Cassalle he went with the joynt forces towards Palestre and Vespolano and Caracena went to Mortara where some skirmishes past between the Horse of either party in one whereof Cavagliere Aiazza being engaged with 150 Horse was taken prisoner but Caracena fearing lest the Prince to relieve Tortona by diversion might fall upon some Town in that Marca past back into the Lomelina and the Novarese in pursuit of the Prince to oppose his proceedings in those enterprises whereunto he saw him most inclined The Prince knowing that he was followed and observed by strong Forces approached sometimes neer Novara sometimes neer Bremi sometimes neer Mortara as if he intended to fall upon all or some of these places but durst not fasten upon any but fell to over-running the Country where plundering and pillaging the best things that were there he much prejudiced the Inhabitants and took away much Corn and Cattle which for the most part he sent to Cassalle Caracena being somewhat inferior in Forces durst not face the Prince who having more men was master of the field and seeming as if he would march along the left side of the Poe to Giarvola threatned to pass his men over there to the other side and so to go to the relief of the besieged Castle which the Governour having notice of he got as many men as he could from Serravalle and other places dissolving the quarter at Pontecurone and sent a great body of men with six pieces of Artillery towards the shore over against Giarvola to resist the Prince if he should venter to pass over the River which the Prince perceiving he retreated again to Cassalle intending to make way for relief by the Tanaro which the Governour doubting he sent Caracena and Gonzaga with almost all the Horse and between three and four thousand Foot to defend that River wherefore the Prince resolving not to venture upon that Pass threw himself at last before Asti imagining that the Governour would either quit the Siege of the Castle and come with all his Forces to defend Asti or else would not at all move from the Castle if he should not move he assured himself he should take Asti by reason of the weakness of the Garrison and the Inhabitants inclination to love him and if he should move he should certainly relieve the Castle and City of Tortona and might peradventure take Asti