which hindred his designs as Mustafa alleadged or that under pretence of this practice he plotted some mischiefe to our men which he found afterwards by new accidents he could not compasse the businesse could not be effected nor had they so great forces as they might hope thereby to force the Town which was already Garrisonized with new men The like success and out of the same reasons had the businesse of of Alessio attempted not long after by those of Dulcingo For having taken the Suburbs of the Town with those few men which they could put together and chased the St. Iacco of Ducagini who was come with some Horse to relieve the Town they could not keep long before the Castle nor so soon effect the enterprise by a few men but that it was impeded by the Belgerby of Greece But our men made War upon the confines of Zara rather to keep the Enemy from doing injuries and to secure that Country which was mightily infested by the Turks than out of any other hopes for the enemie were mightily increased in Horse thereabouts so as our light Horse which kept for the most part within the City of Zara went out as occasion required to hinder Pillage and many other mischiefs which were done by the Enemy wherein Brandolino Brandolini Count di Val-di Marino and Ierollimo dal Nero Vicentino did behave themselves gallantly with their Ferrara Horse wherewith appearing often in the field and valiantly assaulting the Enemy who came to do mischief they revenged themselves upon them before they suffered them to depart But no remakable action hapned in these Countries Pillage rather then Battel being the effect of this first years actions At the same time that these things hapned whilst the Fleets were gone prepared for hostile actions the businesse of the League which was agitated as hath been said by common consent in Rome was no lesse solicitously attended where as soon as sufficient Commissions were come from the King of Spain and from the Signory of Venice to their Agents inabling them to conclude it the Pope sending for them to come before him in a grave and affectionate manner spoke unto them thus As soon as there was any news heard of War resolved upon by Selino Ottaman against the State of Venice we fearing lest this might be the begining of much mischief to Christendom a million of our-enormous sins having provoked Gods anger against us We I say presently betook our selves to our prayers and devotions which if they might not impetrate pardon for us might at least mitigate the punishment wherein we have intermitted nothing neither by our internall peculiar affection nor by our admonitions nor by our example which belonged unto our office as the true Pastor and Custos of the Flock committed unto us by God And now we begin to rejoyce thinking that our humble Petitions have not been powred forth in vain since the Catholick King moved by the divine spirit hath so easily and so quickly been perswaded to concur in this holy League and to this purpose hath made choice of pious and wise men that so important a businesse may the more easily be brought to a good end And the like good disposition of minde is seen in the Venetian Senate all whose votes have concur'd to the undertaking of this War Those Senators being resolute and constant not to dispence with any cost or pains wherein their own safety may be concern'd and the common good of Christendom which was certainly very much threatned by the Turks Which as it is well known to you Gentlemen who are so wise so ought you with all your study and indeavours to intend this union wherein the purchasing of perpetuall peace and quiet to your Princes Dominions and immortall glory to their names is negotiated Mens Governments and Empires are not secured from ruine by the farre distance of others mens Countries but those ruines are retarded that they may fall the heavier Constantinople Cairo and Jerusalem how far are they distant from the Caspian Gates from whence these Barbarians had their first beginnings and yet these Seates of noblest Empires are inslaved by a forrain people neither known nor feared by them before And at this time when these men extending the bounds of their Dominions on all sides are become neighbours to almost all Princes now that over-running the Sea with their shipping and having so many Havens in their hands they have made the way more easie for them into the most remote Regions Shal it be said that Spain or any other Province is free or safe from the power of such an Empire which being wholly ordered for War will never meet with any Boundures but making one War arise from an other aspires at the universall Monarchy But say that the Venetians were solely concern'd in the damage and danger of this war it ought assuredly be common to all Christian Princes since it is made by Infidels against the faithfull nay against that Common-wealth wherein the true Christian Religion hath alwaies been profest and nourisht and which hath so often defended and maintained the dignity of this holy Sea the head of Christianity and which imports not a little since she fights in defence of the Kingdom of Cyprus the preservation whereof ought to be highly esteemed and defended by every Christian Prince lest that Island which lyes so opportunely for the enterprise of the Holy Land fall not into the hands of Infidels To which enterprise now that the Empire of Constantinople is lost that passage will be shut up whereby Christians have formerly past happily thither Nor will we dispair and think that our fervent desires shall alwaies prove vain but that we may yet see a Croisado wherein all Christian Princes and people may so zealously concur as a new Kingdom of Ierusalem may be sounded and the Trophy of the Cross be replaced there so as that blessed Land be no more the receptacle of impious and wicked men The Hermit Peter was able to perswade so many Princes and joyn together so many Armies almost of every Nation for so glorious and pious an enterprise in the time of Pope Urbane who knows but that God may be as gracious to us And that the time is now come we have some signs thereof since God hath so long preserved so famous and and powerfull a Common-wealth from so many dangers and that he hath been pleased by so many wayes to increase the power and dignity of the House of Austria wherein he hath now given us so powerfull and pious a Prince that he may quell the pride of the Enemies of the Holy Faith and parallel the worth and glory of Charlemain whose fame is made so illustrious by the memory of so many things done by him for the increase of Christian religion This so great and honourable work and the hope of such happy successe is recommended to your diligence and trust so as you ought not onely be diligent and effectuall in executing
lesse diligent in ordering his forces and in incouraging his men to fight When any noble Venetian Governour of any Gally came before him he desired him to remember That a publick pious and important cause was to be disposed in that days work That the totall affairs and the honour and safety of their Country lay in their valour that the necessity of fighting was unavoydable which was wont to make even cowards valiant but that selfe worth and desire of praise did awaken fortitude in noble and generous hearts This mean while the Gallies came still out and leaving the Rocks on the left hand the whole Fleet came into full Sea and put it selfe in order one gally keeping in a direct line by the others with sufficient space for a gally to go between them The Venetian and Spanish gallies being every where mingled the whole Fleet taking up about 4 miles space Andrea Doria who led on the right wing kept towards the Sea on the South-East side Commissary Barburigâ— kept with the left wing to landward the three Generalls keeping in the midst with the Battel about which there were 4 gallies with Lanthorns two on the side the two Admiralls of savoy and Genua upon one whereof was the Prince of Parma and the Prince of Urbin upon the other and two on the Poop La Patrona Reale and the Commandadore of Casteiles Admirall Lomelini's Gally and Commissary Quirino's Admirall closing up the battel on one side joyn'd it to the left wing the Admirall of Malta and Admirall of Sicily joyn'd it with the right wing and the Admiralls of the wings were the formost of their squadrons on the out-side The 6 Galliasses were placed on the Front of the Battel about halfe a mile from it divided in the same manner In the midst before the Battel stood Duedo's Admirall and Gauro's Gally with two others for every wing which were all very well furnished with Artillery and Souldiers The Fleet being thus ordered stood firm with their Prows turn'd towards the Enemy expecting that they should come on Ali not seeing our left wing appear yet which was not come from forth the Rocks thought the Christian Fleet to be lesser then it was and seeing Doria bend towards the Sea which he did to make way for the other gallies which followed he imagined they began to fly whereupon the Trumpet Drums and Cymballs sounding and making great signs of joy the Turks advanced as to an assured prey but when they had advanced a little and saw all our Gallies in order they grew doubtful so as striking their main Yards for the winde began to grow lesse they slackned their course but not having time to put on new resolutions they came slowly on that they might keep the better order Ali exhorted his Souldiers not to forgo their former courage if he found fear in any one of them he stir'd them up either by promises or threats bidding them remember the worth of many Mâ—sselmans who would not give over the Battel till either dead or Conquerors As soon as the Enemies Fleet came near the greater gallies they were play'd upon by a great shower of shoâ— for those Vessels were well provided as hath been said with both great Guns and lesser and suddenly made many shot as them every where on Prow Flank and Poop whereby they prejudiced them much Those of the first squadrons made resistance and made many shots at Duodo's Admirall but soon perceiving that they did us but little harm and received much themselves they began to fall off with all possible speed from the greater Vessels so as every gally seeking to give way and to free themselves as soon as might be from danger and not being all of equall goodnesse nor able to keepe the same course they fell of themselves into disorder and to get out of the reach of the Guns kept their ranks sometimes closer sometimes wider not according to conveniency or reason but as they were advised by Necessity Hereupon it hapned that the enemies Fleet fought in great disorder for the winde failed them so as after they had past the Galliasses they could not re-order themselves before they were come very near our smaller Gallies which making use of the fair winde were advanced and had by shot defyed the enemy and begun the fight This disorder of the enemies appeared most in the right Wing for many of them falling willingly towards land they had straitned their Squadrons too much on that part Then Ali thinking Doria's Squadron the greater because it made the greater show being out at high Sea and beginning to doubt that his taking so great a compasse was done with intention of inclosing him in the midst and by tacking about to assault him both on the Flanck and Poop to his great inconvenience he commanded Uluzzali that he should augment his left wing and making towards the enemy should face or fight their right Wing But Doria steered his course towards the enemy's Admirall which was opposite to him so as the conflict began somewhat later on that side then it had on the left Wing which being near land and having but little way to make encountered the enemy quickly But Siloco who was opposite to this our Wing seeing some space by sea between the last Gallies thereof and the land his Gallies being as hath been said close together fell with them presently beyond ours to the end that turning back he might assault our left Wing on the reer and that upon any ill fortune he might be the neerer land and so might provide the better for his safety And though Commissary Barbarigo were aware of this his designe yet could he not hinder him time enough so as the Gallies of the second Squadron past safely beyond ours At the same time Ali keeping his course streight on and re-enforcing the Rowers that he might be the sooner out of danger of the shot met with Iohn's Gally who seeing him come knew the Emperiall Gally by its Ensignes and not tarrying to expect being assaulted advanced immediately together with the Venetian Generall and both of them gave him a fierce assault Colonna did the like to Bashaw Pertaw's Gally betwixt whom the fight grew the fiercer for that these the chief Commander's Gallies had other Gallies neer them which assisted them to sustain and to refresh the fight But other Squadrons of the same order which kept first close together severing themselves a little entred the Battle in severall places and in severall manners some were to resist many of the enemies Gallies and some other unfought withall wound about whither they listed to succour their companions that were in danger Thus they fought in severall places with great slaughter and dubious event so as it seemed not to be one but many Navall Battles The souldiers being on all sides enflamed not onely with the desire of glory but with hatred to their enemies boarding the enemies Gallies or beating back those that sought to
sending for the Gallies to Naples made him quit the enterprize and give over the hoped for victory Phillippino Doria was already come to Naples with eight Gallies but these not being sufficient to keep the City from being victuall'd by Sea and it being likewise thought that they could not be safe there if the enemy should send forth their armed Vessels which were in the Haven Lautrech had continually solicited the Venetian Commanders to come as soon as they could and joyn with Doria's Gallies to secure them and to straiten the siege yet more Such were the proceedings in the Kingdom of Naples but the Venetians were busied with other affairs of no less importance for Henry Duke of Brunswick after many rumours of his coming being very much solicited by Charls and Ferdinand to pass into Italy and to enter Lombardy to divert the forces of the League from the enterprize of Naples which Kingdom being in great danger he saw he could not succour by any way better passing from Trent into Valledragi was entred into the Territories of Verona and had brought with him about twelve thousand foot with whom it was said that Antonio da Leva was to joyn who was already come into the field with eight thousand foot that they might joyntly fall upon the Town in the State of Venice which Brunswick had denounced war against having with much vanity and very ridiculously challenged the Duke thereof Andrea Gritti a man of fourscore years of age to fight a single Duel with him But the Senate was not wanting in diligence to arm themselves they designed to raise an Army of twelve thousand foot of which four thousand to be Switzers to which purpose they sent monies into Switzerland and desired the King of France to further this their Levy by his authority They likewise brought great store of light Horse from Greece and from Dalmatia and recalled the Duke of Urbine from Marc d' Ancona And to the end that their own State might not be bereft of defence whilst they went to defend the States of others they commanded him to view all their Cities and Forts of greatest importance to put good garrisons into them and to do whatsoever else he should judge might make most for their safety then they chose divers select Gentlemen whom they entrusted with the particular charge of the chief Cities Girollimo Diedo was sent with one hundred and fifty foot to Treviso Pietro Sagredo with as many to Padua Zaccheria Orio Phillippo Correro Allessandro Donato Ambrâ—gio Contarini Ioseppe Badoero Lorenzo Lanudo Agostino Canale and Almoro Barbaro were sent to Verona with 25 souldiers apiece wherewith they were to guard the gates and places of greatest importance These preparations were judged worthy consideration in France wherefore they likewise prepared to send powerfull Forces into Italy which were to be commanded by Monsi ur de St. Paul one of the house of Burbone a personage highly esteemed for his birth and other honourable endowments but not much experienced in war and as it proved afterwards not very fortunate in this enterprise But these provisions proved too late for the present occasion for the Duke of Brunswick finding himself strong enough designed to fall upon some of the Commonwealths Cities being the more encouraged so to do because at his first arrival Peschiera Rivoltella and some other Towns neighbouring upon the Lake of Garda yielded unto him But the Duke of Urbine who was at Verona diligently observing Brunswicks marches prevented his designes and went presently to Brescia where he augmented the Garrison and from thence to Bergamo putting many of the Inhabitants of those valleys who were very faithfull to the Venetian interest into the City and begirting the city with trenches and outworks put it in a posture of defence Moreover he cunningly made the men of those parts propound treaties of agreement and giving of monies wherein they spun out time to the end that by retarding Brunswick's march more opportunity might be had to secure the principal places wherein there being good store of Light-horse they infested the Dutch Camp by sallying out and disturb'd their Victuals And amongst these Geralamo da Canale did very good service with five hundred Crabats which he had brought with him out of Dalmatia So as Brunswick falling short of his hoped for success and being incommodated for victuals after having according to the barbarous and cruel custome of that Nation ruined the Country and burnt many noble edifices went out of the Venetian Confines and came into the State of Milan where he was met by Antonio da Leva who hearing of his arrival was past over the Ada to joyn with him in some enterprise Wherefore both of them repassing over the Ada they went to encamp before Lodi from whence the Duke of Milan was gone a little before being advertised of the enemies approach by Gabrielle Veniero the Venetian Embassadour and leaving a good number of men in that city he came by the Venetians advice to Brescia But the Venetian souldiers who were in Lodi and who were commanded by Paolo Sforza the Dukes bastard brother having valliantly withstood many assaults repuls'd the enemy Wherefore Brunswick not having much money to maintain the Army longer finding that he had spent much time in vain began to be aware of his idle thoughts whereunto he had out of vain glory and hopes of Booty been perswaded by Ferdinando d' Austria who minding more his brother's advantage then the success of the business had earnestly perswaded him to pass into Italy and without thinking of advancing further to enter into the Kingdome of Naples as he had at first purposed to do he went by the way of the Lake of Como to return to Germany being pursued by il Conte di Giazzo and by Mercurio Bua who issuing out of Bergamo fell upon his Reer but did not much prejudice the enemy because they were too late aware of their departure Yet many of the Dutch who in great numbers parted from the Camp were ransak'd and cut in pieces by the country people The besieged in Naples were much troubled to hear of the dissolution of the Dutch Foot being thereby bereaved of the onely relief wherein their safety lay For but a little before they had with bad success attempted to beat the Galleys of Philippo Doria that they might have the way open by Sea since they could come by no victualls by land Lautrech having possess'd himself of Pazzuolo and of the neighbouring places The Imperiall Commanders were likewise herewith much molested for understanding that the Venetian Fleet was suddenly to come into those Seas they knew their danger would be the greater and their remedy harder Therefore being resolved to prevent the Enemy they determined to put out from the Haven with 6 Galleys and many other armed Vessels and to assault Doria's Galleys and were so assured of Victory as they thought as the Marquis Guasto Don Hugo and other chief Commanders went aboard those
them Thus by order from the Senate twenty Gallies were suddenly armed in the Islands of Candia Zante and Corfu and in other Towns of Dalmatia which made up the number of the Fleet sixty the Government whereof was given to Vicenzo Capello who was created Captain General at Sea His Commission was to look carefully to the preservation of all places and subjects belonging to the Commonwealth not suffering any injury to be done unto them but not to meddle by any means in the affâ—irs of any forraign Fleet that both the Imperialists and Turks should be treated as friends that they should be allowed Havens and Victuals but neither Arms nor ammunition nor any thing appertaining to War for the Senate was stedfastly resolved to keep peace and friendship with all The Turkish Fleet being then put forth into the Eastern Seas to the number of eighty Sail some twenty lesser Vessels being numbred amongst the Gallies commanded by Immerale and the Imperial Fleet into the Western consisting of forty nimble Gallies to boot with a great number of Men of War commanded by Andrea Doria and it not appearing as yet what the commanders ends or commissions were General Capello kept between Zant and Corfu endeavouring according to his Commission to secure the Subjects but to shun all occasion of encountring with this Fleet in case it should advance that he might give no suspition of favouring one party more then the other Immerale being come to Pevesa Capello tarrying at Corfu sent one of his Gallies to make him a friendly Visit which he took very kindly and promised to have a great care to the affairs of the Commonwealth not suffering any of her subjects to be injured and it was a great truth that the Turkish Fleet having touched at Zant and at other places had not injured any one But Doria putting from Sicily where he had tarried long sailed towards Greece and hearing that the Venetian Fleet was at Zant he would go thither also with his Gallies that he might speak with General Capello intending as it was believ'd for he had often said he would do so to put a necessity upon the Venetians of joyning with him by making the Turks jealous that their Fleets would joyn concerning which union he had written many letters to the Senate and the Emperours Embassadour then resident at Venice had several times with much importunity prest to know that if it should so fall out as his Masters and the Turks Fleet should have a conflict whether the Venetian General was to assist Soliman or no Which it being very well known how far the Venâ—tian were â—rom doing they knew these queries were made to bring them to some farther justification of themselves by some promise which might make them quit their Neutrality Therefore the Senate and General Capello gave such answers as might witness their forwardness and willingness to keep friends with Cesar but that they would not be brought either out of favour to him or out of any vain hopes of self-interest to break peace with so powerful an Enemy Thus the Imperial and Turkish Fleets being almost equally ballanced in point of force they lay idle all the Summer neither of them daring to fall upon any Enterprize for fear of being worsted by the other At last the Turkish Fleet beginning because it was much weakened by the Souldiers sickness to retire towards Negraponte to the end as it was believed that they might winter in Constantinople Doria grew thereupon the bolder and having a great many Souldiers in his Fleet after many consultations steered his course towards Morea reâ—olving to attempt the taking of Corone which after some resistance made by the Turkish Garrison he took by force and soon after took Patrasso by agreement But winter being now at hand both the Fleets with-drew into their several Havens not doing any remarkable action Wherefore the Venetians that they might not be at so great an expence to no purpose disarm'd their extraordinary Gallies which had been armed abroad and some of the oldest also which had formerly been in their Fleet This happy success of the Imperialists encouraged the Christians to hope for greater things every little acquisition being highly esteemed by them who were always wont to come off with the loss But others weighing the condition of affairs better said that such things were vainly undertaken as could produce no true nor greatly considerable advantage to the service of Christendom for since the Turkish Forces remained intire both by Sea and Land what reason had they to nourish any hopes of maintaining those places long to which the Enemy might easily bring their most powerful Armies both by Land and Sea And certainly the sequel made this be the better known for the next year Corone was re-taken by the Turks to the great loss and shame of the Christians And the like not many years after befell Castel Novo which was first taken and soon after lost by our men as shall hereafter be related These things were done abroad but in Italy all things were this mean while peaceable save that the Duke of Milan was forced to send his men against the Commander of the castle of Muss who desirous to better his condition by some novelty and hoping to be assisted by the Landsknechts had taken some places amongst the Grisouâ—s and threatened the City of Como which caused the Duke to send a Servant of his Iovan Battisto Spetiano to crave help from the Senate To which the Senate answered that they were to proceed herein with great caution lest they might trouble the quiet of Italy and raise jealousies that they had deeper designs But that if the occasion should increase he should find them as ready as they had been for so many late years to assist the Duke and his affairs Which was the occasion of the quenching of this little spark which if the Venetians should have taken up Arms was feared might have broken out into a greater fire For the Grisouns being assisted in this interim by some of the Cantons of the Switzers had assembled a good number of men with whom they made head against the aforesaid Commander and brought him to agreement to the which the Duke when he understood the Venetians resolution did the more willingly assent and at last had the town of Lecco and the Castle of Muss restored unto him for a certain sum of money At the same time the possession of the Cities of Modena and Regio was confirm'd to the Duke of Ferrara by the Emperours favourable decree in his behalf though the Pope complain'd much thereof To whom the Duke being to pay for this 100000 Duckets within a prefix'd time and the Pope requiring Pledges the Duke gave him fifteen Gentlemen of Venice whom the Pope accepted of upon the Senates word that they were sufficient security for such a sum A little before this the Duke was return'd to favour and friendship with the Commoâ— wealth whereby he was freely
not to lose by such enemies is reputed a kind of victory The Venetians therefore paid their thanks to God singing Masses and Psalmes throughout all their Churches making solemn processions and giving much alms both in publick and in private to poor Monastaries and other religious places But Soliman seeking to molest the Venetians in several places had commanded Cassin Sanghiacco of Morea that assembling the souldiers of the neighbouring parts together he should besiege Napoli di Romania and Malvesia The Common-wealth had long had the Government of the chief Towns in Morea a fruitful Country and more famous than any other part of Greece for the number and worth of her Inhabitants and which was very convenient for the Venetians by reason of her many Havens wherein her ships have safe receptacle But having lost Modene and Corone in the last Turkish Wars made against Bajazet Ottaman Grand-father to this Soliman she kept yet those two Towns strongly seated and inhabited by people who were very affectionate to the Venetians Napoli stands upon the head of a little Promontory which thrusting it self out from the land makes a large and safe Haven and is inviron'd on three sides by the Sea and hath a steep and difficult ascent by the Mountain called Palamide on the side towards the Land so as there is onely a very strait way which leads to the City lying between the side of the mountain and the Sea and on the out-side the banks are so high and steep as no gallies can come to batter the walls or land men The entrance into the Haven is likewise so strait as the Gallies cannot enter thereinto but by one and one so as they may easily be kept from entring by the Artillery especially by those of a little Castle seated upon a Rock about some 300 paces in the Sea just over against the mouth of the Haven so as it may play on all sides upon any Vessel that shall approach It cannot be assaulted by land-forces being it lies in midst of the Sea nor by gallies as having so many shelves about it as none but very small Vessels can come unto it Malvasia is likewise seated in the same place nearer Cape Malio upon a mountain or Rock divided for the space of 80 paces from a point of land which in a long and very narrow shape thrusts it selfe into the Sea so as this City being seated very high is wholly inviron'd by the Sea having no passage to land but by a bridge nor can it be waded to on any part so deep are the waters round about And as it is strong and secure by naturall situation so hath nature furnisht it with fountains of spring water and with good and fruitfull land for there is a fair plain upon the top of the Mountain bearing Corn sufficient for 50 or 60 men which are enough to defend this strongly seated City against any whatsoever forces Vittore de Garzoni had the Government of Napoli with the title of Bailo a man very aged and well experienced by reason of his imployments both by Sea and Land This man did not onely defend the Fort free from all danger by his wisdome valour and by the fidelity of those men but making his Cavalry make out many sallies he secured the Country and did much indamage the Enemy therefore Cassin who in obedience to Soliman was come thither with his men having tri'd the Inhabitants of Malvasia both by promises and threats and finding the difficulty of the enterprise and not being sufficiently furnisht with any thing to use violence or to besiege the Town after having staid some few dayes about Naples went from thence disbanding some of his Army and carried the rest into the neighbouring Country about six miles from the City But Barbarossa Luftebei being entred with the rest of the Fleet into the Streit of Galipoli to disarm staid abroad with 70 Gallies and 30 Galliotte and other Fly-boats ran over the Islands of the Archipelagus which belonged to the Common-wealth some whereof having no means neither by scituation nor Garrison to defend themselves othersome through fear yeelded at the first appearance of the Fleet. As Sciro a great Island but little inhabited as then which looks upon the Pegasean Gulph Pathmos a place of no great note in it selfe but rendred famous by St. Iohns devotions one of Christ's Disciples who being confined to that Island writ the Apocalyps there Legina of small circuit but so well inhabited as the Turks were said to have carried above 6000 prisoners from thence it was likewise of better esteem by reason of the Haven wherefore there remained usually a Venetian Magistrate there who at this time was Francisco Suriano There were also some Islands which belonged to the particular jurisdiction of divers Gentlemen of Venice Nio appertaining to the Pâ—san family an Island of about 40 miles about noted for the admirable quality of the soyl thereof which whithersoever it be carried it drives away all venemous creatures Stampalia an Island of greater circuit well inhabited which belonged to the House of Quirina Paro one of the Cyclades much spoken of by Poets and famous for the excellent Marble which is fetcht from thence it is about fifty miles about extending from the West to the East and the remainders of many noble buildings shew how much it hath been anciently inhabited and on the North side it hath a little Castle with a Haven and Wharfe this belonged then to the family of Veniero but being by sucession to come to Bernardo Segredo he was gone thither himself to keep it Wherefore this alone of all the rest made some resistance and chiefly by his valour but the defendants wanting powder they were forc'd to surrender themselves to the discretion of the Enemy who gave them all their lives but made many of them prisoners amongst whom Segredo himselfe who by great good fortune was afterwards freed by the means of one of Ragusa a Renegado who had been long in his gallie and remembring how well he had been used by him made him this return at his great need and the Island of Tine although it had a Fort and was both by natural scituation and art able enough to have held out took example of the rest and followed the Victors fortune but soon after the Inhabitants repenting that they had so soon yielded and desirous to continue under the Government of the Venetians free from the Turkish Tyranny they rebelled and of themselves sent into Candia to desire a Garrison of souldiers and a Venetian Magistrate and this Island doth till this day keep in loyalty and obedience to the Common-wealth though it lies in the very jaws of so potent Enemies The Island of Nicsia or rather Nasso with some other Neighbouring Islands whereof Iovanni Grispo was Lord kept still under his Dominion for he yeelding to the Turks at the very first appearance of their Fleet agreed to pay 5000 Duckets yearly by way of tribute to
Naples to go with 5000 Foot what-Dutch what-Spanish the Kingdom being now free from the danger for which the Garrisons of those Cities were increased with these men into Tuscany and indeavour the reducing of the City of Sienna to his devotion again It was thought that this success if the French-mens designs should prove secure would be very prejudiciall to the Emperour's affairs in Italy for though the French profess'd in words that they had tane upon them the defence of Sienna to free it from the oppression of the Spaniards and to restore it to its former dignity and freedom yet their intention was too well known For refusing propositions of Agreement which were offered they would continue their Garrisons in that City that they might make use thereof and of other places which they had gotten to raise men in Italy and for other designs of theirs So as in reward of Liberty the King of France required of the Senesi that they would declare themselves to be friends to his friends and Enemies to his Enemies The Vice-roy then desiring suddenly to obey Caesars Commands obtained passage through the Churches Territories which the Pope said he gave way unto because he knew not how to hindâ—â—â—im He entred with his Army into the parts about Sienna which he plundered and took some weak Castles which soon yielded but the stronger places were so well munited as the Imperialists were forc'd to keep long before them the whole force of the War almost was reduced to about Monte Alcino whilst which Fort was preserved Sienna which was excellently well provided of all things was in the lesser danger That which made the Senesi chiefly so resolute to defend themselves was the fear of being severely punisht by Cesar if he should regain the City and their hopes of not being long troubled with the Imperiall Army by reason of the dangers which befell the Kingdom of Naples by the Turkish and French Fleets The Venetians indeavoured to quench this fire which was kindled in Italy The End of the twelfth and last Book of the first Part of the Venetian History THE HISTORY OF VENICE The Second Part. Written by PAULO PARUTA Procurator of St. MARK Wherein the War made by the League of Christian Princes against Selino Ottaman upon occasion of the Kingdom of Cyprus is contained in three Books BOOK I. THE CONTENTS THe cause of the War of Cyprus How that Island fell to the Venetians Tribute paid for it to the Turks who desire the possession thereof notwithstanding Soliman does nothing therein His successor Selino is enclined to this enterprise out of divers respects He confirms the Articles of Peace with the Venetians and doth other things which make him appear more given to peace then war But soon after he deceives mens thoughts and consults about the taking of Cyprus He is disswaded by Mehemet but being perswaded by others he undertakes the enterprise Many tumultuous risings are appeased by him The dearth of the year 1569. Fire in the Arsenal the same year The Consul advertiseth the Senate of Selino's resolution but is not much believed but by reiterated advices they begin to look about them Provisions made Consultatitions had how to use the provisions which are made They minde the Garrisoning of Cyprus They acquaint the Princes therewith 〈◊〉 the Pope His answer He propounds the joyning of the Spanish and Venetian Fleet. Treats thereof with the Catholick King who promiseth among and permits that the League be treated of in Rome The Pope 〈…〉 aid of the King of Portingall but cannot 〈◊〉 The 〈◊〉 â—reat with Cesar and the Pope with the King of France but to 〈…〉 purpose The Italian Princes are 〈◊〉 to the League 〈◊〉 between the Pope and the Duke of Ferrara Quieted by the Venetians The King of Persia is solicited to make war with the Turks but in vain Hostile acts on both sides The Turks diligence in their preparations Diversity of opinion touching the managing of the war The Consulls carefulnesse to acquaint the Senate with all the proceedings A Châ—aus is sent to Venice by the Turk His proposalls and his answer Divers discourses touching what had past with the Chiaus His return to Constantinople and what effects it wrought with the Turks and with Selino The death of Doge Loredano and election of Mocenigo The Treaty of the League appears too cool in the Emperour and in the King of Spain An account of the Venetian Fleet and the progresse thereof The Pope's Fleet. Sebastiano Veniero takes Sopoâ—o The Turks trouble The General consults touching what the Fleet shall do It is resolved to take Malgariti but it is not done The Gallies of Candia expugne Brazzo di Maina and joyne with the Fleet The union of the Pope's Spanish and Venetian Fleets The proceeding of the Turk's Fleet. Tine is valiantly defended by Girolamio Paruta A description of the Island of Cyprus The Turkish Fleet comes thither and the mischief which it does What and how many the Garrisons of the Island were The Turks resolve what Fort they shall first assault They go to Necossia What terrour they infuse there The Army incamps without any hinderance The description of Necossia The Bishop of Baffo's Oration to the Necossians exhorting to defend themselves and to perseverance The Turk's Fortifications The Necossians sally out and assault the Turks but are repuls'd and slain The Turks do much molest the City A generall assault wherein the Turks are worsted A new assault The City taken and all put to death They go to Famagosta and what they do there The proceedings of the Christian Fleet. It resolves to go to the relief of Cyprus What and how great the Fleet was Upon the newes of the losse of Necossia they take a new resolution and return back An insurrection in Albania and the proceedings there Treaties of a League made at Rome and the difficulties which are met with therein A League treated with the Emperour with little better successe The Venetian Fleet resolves to relieve Famagosta Severall accidents which fall out there Considerations upon what hapned this present year THe War made by the Common-wealth of Venice against Selino Ottaman when his Empire and fortune was at the greatest height both by Sea and Land in defence of the Kingdom of Cyprus he being the most powerful Emperour of the Turks and in League with some of the chiefest Princes of Christendom may be numbred amongst the most remarkable things which hath hapned in our times or in the memory of our fore-fathers or in whatsoever other former Age The War being undertaken with much fervour and warlike preparation on both sides and with no lesse indignation then power whilst not onely the ablest Nations but such as did differ in Customes Lawes and Religion did contend for the priority of the Militia and for the glory of the Empire so as the present War contains events which for their variety and greatnesse may afford such delight and help as the knowledge
being acquainted with those parts had perswaded them as he said to come thither by their false informations which they must believe if they would effect that enterprise for to send a few to discover the scituation was to hasard them to too manifest danger and by sending many they should give notice to the enemy and make the difficulties the greater But to shun the like errour an other time when it was proposed to attempt the Castle of Prevesa or of Santa Maura Palavesino would go thither himself and took with him Paolo Orsino Harcole de Pii and Commissary Celsi who at their return to the Fleet brought back word That those enterprises would prove difficult and would require time for the enemy fearing an assault had fired their suburbs and were very vigilant so as it would require much forces and length of time to storm them which made them think they were not at that time to be attempted At this time came Marco Quirini Captain of the Gulph to them with the Candie-Gallies who had been long detained in the Haven of Candia as well by occasion of contrary winds as also in expectation that the Turkish Fleet which he heard was to go for the Island of Cyprus might be past those Seas for he had but a few Gallies and those but lately man'd and the refore unfit to contend with the enemy or with the sea which did so moderate his usuall daring as it was overborn by mature advice For his experience in sea-affairs was commended by all men his vigilancy and his being ready to undergo all labour and danger and some did sometimes desire that he would have been more temperate in his actions Being at last got from Candia and being desirous to redeem the time he had lost when he was come to the Quaglie he bethought himself of expugning the Fort of Brazzo di Maina which as hath been said had been lately built by the Turks he considered the Haven della Quaglie might be a commodious receptacle for Christian ships being placed in the utmost angle of la Morea on the outside towards the sea made as it were by nature to receive those which failed from the Levant westward by the Ionick sea which conveniencie was taken away by this Fort which overlooked the whole Haven and commanded it almost on all sides This place was anciently called Leutro famous for a great victory which the Lacedemonians had there of the Thebans who had long had the principality of that Region Quirini's intention was chiefly to assault the enemy at unawares being not desirous to delay his journey upon any occasion Comming therefore within ken of la Maina on the 29th of Iune by break of day he presently landed some Harchebugiers who possess'd themselves of the little hill before the Castle and he the mean while drew near it with his Gallies so as the enemy was at one and the same time assaulted both by sea and land and were soon kept from defending themselves on that side by shot from the Gallies and they were much endammaged on the other side by the Harchebugiers who being upon a higher place played upon those that defended the walls so as despairing to be any longer able to defend themselves the defendants withdrew into a Towre which was within and left the way free and open for Quirini's men to enter the Fort wherein very few men were left So as playing upon the Towre with the enemies own Artillery whereof they found 24 Pieces they forc'd them that were within to yield with safety to their lives But the Fort because it was hard to be kept was in a few hours undermined and thrown down This prosperous successe and the arrivall of these twelve Gallies which came all safe within twelve daies after to Corfu did somewhat encourage the other Commanders who were much disheartned by the former misfortunes and they were the more cheered because Quirini told them That if the whole Fleet would withdraw to the Isle of Candia they might easily furnish themselves with Mariners souldiers and all other necessaries Which made them all desirous to advance and so to order their affairs as that they might hazard the fortune of war But the first thing they thought fit to do was That Quirini should with twenty Gallies over-run the Islands of the Archipelagus that he might give the enemy a feeling of their forces and to get from thence some men for the Ore which he readily did and went to the Island of Andro one of the Cyclades as they were formerly called by the Antients where landing his souldiers he carried away above three hundred men but he was not able to refrain the insolency of the Souldier who being in an Enemies Country though of Christians committed many other out-ragâ—s which made him hasten his return but Generall Zanne was this mean while gone from Corfu having received new orders from the Senate to go with those forces which he had more towards the Levant and to indeavour to raise of the siege of Cyprus either by diversion falling upon some of the Enemies places or else by carrying sufficient recruits making his ways through the midst of the Enemies Fleet and fighting them Wherefore Quirini in his return found the Venetian Fleet upon Modone which joyning with these her other Gallies arrived two days after upon the 4th of August at the Island of Candia and went altogether into the Gulph Anfialeo called now by the Marriners the Haven of Suda which is a great Creek of the Sea lying under the Promontory Drepano called Capo Meleca which thrusting it selfe out makes it the larger and more capacious Here Generall Zanne was very solicitous in providing all things necessary for the Fleet wherein he found much difficulty especially in finding men enough to supply the number of the dead Wherefore sending some Gallies to the Archipelagus again to that purpose he went with forty of the best Gallies to the City of Candia as to the fittest place to make all his provision in The two Commissaries and Palavesine staid at the Haven of Suda the Generall at his departure having left them the same Authority which they were very industrious in making use of to furnish their Gallies with men wherein they made good use of Luca Michiele Commissary of Cania who by the Authority which he held there and much more by the love which he had wonne amongst those people proved an excellent instrument to propagate that businesse But the other difficulties being at last overcome and the Fleet being sufficiently provided of Souldiers and Mariners they were notwithstanding forced to keep within the Havens and lose the best time for action at Sea expecting daily the Churches Gallies and those of Spain which by new advertisements from Venice they understood were to joyn together by directions given to Doria and to Colonna and meet the rest as soon as might be at Candia Wherefore the Senate added this to their former orders given to their
Orsino being presently gone after their return from Malgarithi That it was likewise to be considered if the businesse should prove longer then was imagined as it usually falls out in such cases they should lose honour in giving it over and might incur great prejudice by continuing it since all the Leagues Fleets were to meet in good order in the beginning of March He therefore proposed as a thing better befitting the present time and occasion an attempt upon the Dardanelli or that they might go somewhere else where by depriving the enemy of their Rowers and of other things wherewith they were to recruit their Fleet their designes might be disturbed and hindered Yet Veniero continuing in his opinion went in the beginning of February with the whole Venetian Fleet to the Island or Promontory of Albania formerly called Leucade but now S ta Maura which being but a little distant from the firm land is now by the Corinthi the antient inhabitants of that country joyned by a Bridge to the land Our mens first care was to keep the Fort from being succoured hoping that being unexpectedly assaulted by sea and land and having but a small garrison it would soon become theirs Commissary Canale was therefore ordered to advance with 13 gallies and to break the Bridge about which many armed Barks were placed to keep horses from wading into the Island â—o as the enemy might be berefâ— of all succour These things being thus ordered and many Foot and Horse being already landed Generall Veniero and Colonell Rancone who had the chief command of the land forces in this enterprise went to view the scituation but finding many of the enemies Horse with whom it became them to skirmish and wherein they lost some of their men they were forc'd to retreat not being able to take so good observations as was needfull And finding by what they conceived at the first sight that the situation was stronger then it was given out to be and the therefore the enterprise would prove the more difficult which difficulty was made the greater by their failing in their first designe For the Barks which were to keep the Fort from being relieved not being able to advance so far as they should have done by reason of the shelfs and shallownesse of the water could not keep the enemies Foot and Horse from wâ—ding over and encreasing the Garrison They dispairing of doing any good without more ado embark their men and went awaâ— with the whole Fleet whereof 25 gallies commanded by Commissary Generall Soranzo went to Candia and Generall Veniero reâ—â—rned with the rest to Corfu This mean while Colonna was come from Naples to Rome where he was received with great pomp and extraordinary honour the houses and streets being adorned divers Arches erected and the antient Arches of Vespasian and Constantine by which he was to pass inrich'd with new and proper motions At his entrance into the City he was met by a numerous company of people and by the chief Magistrates of Rome before he came to the Porte Capena now called St. Sebastian's Gate through which he made his publick entry accompanied by 5000 Foot and many Nobles with attendance in rich Liveries the pomp being made the more conspicuous and glorious by 170 Turkish Slaves who clad all in silk were led as it were in triumph amidst the files of souldiers Thus did Colonna passe by the way of the Campidoglio to the Palace where the Pope accompanied by the Colledge of Cardinals stood expecting him in Constantine's Hall whose foot when he had kiss'd he presented the prisoners to him amongst which were the sons of Bashaw Ali in token of his victory At which Rome was overjoyed seeing the memory of her glorious triumphs and of her pristine greatnesse as it were renued after so many ages in one of her famous Citisens THE VVARS OF CYPRUS BOOK III. THE CONTENTS THe effects of the Victory and mens severall discourses thereupon The dis-â—nion and differing opinions of Christian Princes in adhering unto the League How the Turks behave themselves after the Rout. Pius Quintus dyes and Gregory the 13th is chosen The Enterprise of Castel-Nuovo succeeds not The Colleagues Fleets lie idle their dis-union The occasion of the Spaniards parting from the League related more diffusedly and the discords between the French and Spaniards The proceedings of the Turkish Fleet the like of the Venetians and the Popes The Turkish and Christian Fleets face one another both stand upon their advantages They fight not and the Turks fly They meet again but fight not by reason of divers accidents Don John joyns with the Confederates Fleet they go to assault the Enemy but comming too slow the design succeeds not Other Enterprises attempted without successe Don Johns departure and the disâ—â—â—ion of the Colleagues What succeeded in Dalmatia between the Venâ—tians and the Turks Treaties in Rome for provision of War to no effect Treaties of Agreement held at Constantinople and in Mocenigo's speech perswading to Peace The conclusion and conditions of Agreement insuing in March 1573. Mens severall discourses and Princes opinions thereupon THe Victory gotten by the Princes of the League against those Enemies who being till now almost invincible were by reason of their so many prosperous successes in Battel become formidable to all other Nations had awakened great hopes in all men thinking it was now an opportune time to take revenge for past offences and that the Ottaman Empire being once abandoned by fortune might be overborn by the true worth and valour of Christian Princes and Souldiers and as it usually falls out especially when being at the height of prosperity men fancy all things feasible which they doe very much desire no enterprise no acquisition was so great as could satisfie their conceived hopes or which was thought a sufficient recompence for such a Victory Nor did onely such to whom it appertain'd either by peculiar imployment or by experience in War to talke thereof but all men being every where become Souldiers did popularly and oft-times very vainly discourse how making use of so happy an occasion the Colleagues forces should be imploy'd Severall Enterprises were motioned against the Turkish Dominions and especially in Greece All men held for certain tâ—at the very same of the approach of the Christian Fleet was sufficient to make way for noble acquisitions For that the Inhabitants of those Provinces who were held in cruell slavery by the Turks mortally hating their religion customes and Empire would instantly rise up in behalfe of the Christianâ— and the Souldiers of their Garrisons being possest with fear would retreat to the most remote and secure places leaving their Towns to be freely possest by our men if they would but appear before them so as the whole Turkish Dominions would in a short time be in disorder and one acquisition would make way for another and this first victory would be get more Others not content with such things as these but flying at all
of the situation and came again to Cape Sapienza on the South-west side and lay at Anchor almost over against Modone so as the two enemie-Fleets were divided but a little But finding clearly that to tarry long in that place and expect the enemies comming forth whereby they might have opportunity to fight them was but to spend time to little purpose with much indignity and not without some danger they being to keep in open sea and being often deluded by the enemy who being sure quickly to save themselves sent some few gallies often out to molest them The Venetian Generall propounded the landing of 10000 Foot whereby to make themselves masters of the Hill which lay upon the point of the Channell from whence if they intended to make any attempt against the enemy they were likely to receive most harm it being to be hoped that this place being defended by a few men and not in condition of being relieved by Uluzzali who having the enemy before him ready to fight him he would not bereave his Gallies of souldiers and incur a greater danger But the Spaniards approved not of this proposall saying That being so near the enemy they were not to land so many men whereby to weaken the forces of the Fleet and expose it to much danger Wherefore Foscherini finding so many difficulties in whatsoever they should pitch upon and considering that they must be forced ere long to be gone without doing any thing his opinion was That in a businesse of so great estimation and where the hopes of doing good was greater then the danger that might be incurred they were to adventure and forceably to enter the Chanell of Modone and assault the enemy He therefore propounded this to the Councell offering to be himself the first that should expose himself to danger and to make way for the rest Which though it were at first approved of and that every one seemed to strive who should have the honour of atchieving glory by the first danger yet they came not to the tryall thereof So as without making any attempt as then the Fleet went to the Haven of Navarino which is very spacious very convenient for water and for other accommodations and also a safe receptacle for any Fleet it not being to be injured by shot from the Castell which is seated very high and far off where whilst they should tarry the enemies Fleet was as it were besieged underneath Modone so as by reason of the many inconveniences which it underwent it grew into a bad condition of returning to Constantinople and also was in great danger of being driven upon land and split against those shores by South-west windes And if they should be forced by these necessities and dangers to depart from thence they must afford our men opportunity to fight them The Turks this mean while sent many Harchebugiers who being well skilled in the scituations falling down from the mountains near Navarinâ— did disturb our men and sought to deprive them of the convenience of water Wherefore our men were forced to land 5000 Foot commanded by Paolo Giordoâ—o Orsino by which the enemy being driven away the country remained safe So as our men keeping there with much safety and convenience things seemed to be reduced to that passe as it was hardly to be doubted but that the Confederates would soon have the victory whereupon such advertisements were sent throughout all Christendom as men rejoyced thereat not as at a hoped-for happinesse but as at one already certainly had Yet many daies were idly spent without any appearance of advaâ—tage save what time might produce Wherefore so long delay waxing tedious the enterprise of Navarino was proposed but it being afterward considered that though it was feasable yet it could not be much advantagious for the main affair they gave over any further thought thereof and bent themselves to the expugning of Modone in the getting whereof the obtaining of their chief intent did consist for the enemies Fleet being driven from thence might be fought by our men upon very advantagious tearms It was therefore resolved to assault the Town and Castle of Modone both by sea and land at one and the same time and Giovan Mâ—cenicâ— was sent to Zante to bring Foot in all haste from the ships In the interim a certain Ingine was invented and made by Iuseppe Bâ—nellâ— in Florentine-Ingineer by fastning four Gallies together upon which ten pieces of Cannon were placed and some kinde of Paâ—apets raised intending to bring it to the Castle of Modone and to batter it and at the same time to secure the comming of other Gallies which being sheltered by this Ingine from the Enemies shot might enter the Channell and give an assault But when this Ingine was made many contrarieties as usually happens in these new inventions were found to be in it which made it be but of little use for it neither could be well guided upon the water nor was it very safe for having a very great weight upon it and the sides of the Gallies being narrow it might sink as the going off of the Cannon and the sea being there very deep it was not known whether it could have firm Anchorage or no. There was also great difficulty found in bringing it to the intended place for it was to be towed by other Gallies which by reason of their slow motion were exposed to the danger of being shot through and sunk by the Artillery which lay in the mouth of the Haven So as dispairing of getting that advantage by this invention which was at first hoped for and it being given out that the Belgirby of Greece was comming with 2000 Horse to impede that enterprise the businesse was given over But thaâ— which did exceedingly afflict the Venetians and cut off all hopes of doing any good was the newes which was divulged through the whole Fleet that the Spâ—â—iards had bread but for a few daâ—â—s wherefore they said They could not busie themselves about any long affair being by reason of that want to bethink themselves of 〈◊〉 Wherefore being still deâ—irous to leave some signe of victory which might encourage the people of Morea and make them hope for better things they resolved to besiege Navarino which thing had been proposed severall times before but still rejected it noâ— being thought that the getting of so small a Castle was worth the while incomparison of that their great preparation The Castle of 〈◊〉 which was antiently called Pilo is seaâ—ed upon a point of land which thâ—â—sting out on the South-east shapes the Haven almost into the form of a Bowe It is strong rather by Nature than by Art being in an eminent place and hard to be clammer'd up it is very diligently guarded by the Turks for the conveniency of the Haven and for the scituation thereof which is almost in the midst of Morea There are two wayes which lead to the Castle the one on the left hand which lies not far
Pirats and some others were gone into Affrica to succour Tunis and Goletta from suspition of new commotions of the Turks and Moors of those parts The former consultations were then renu'd but with greater necessity of comming to a resolution and of falling upon some enterprise At last it was resolved by common consent to go with the whole Fleet to Prevesa and to fight the enemy Our Commanders intention was to land their men as soon as they should be come to Prevesa and to use all their might to possesse themselves of that Castle and to build a Fort over against it that so they might master the Gulphs mouth so as they might afterwards put on what resolution they should like best either of entring to fight the enemies Fleet or else of keeping it from comming out and ruine it by its own sufferings This advice was listned unto by the great applause of all accounting the place where they were to have the conflict as a good Omen as being favourable to the Western Princes for the signall victory which Augustus got over Mark Antonio and Cleopâ—â—ra Queen of Aegypt in that sea The League 's Fleet consisted of 136 Gallies 2 Galleouns and of 30 Frigats These were divided into five Squadrons in the first was placed the greater Vessells governed by Francesco Doria and the lesser was divided into four other Squadrons Patriarch Grimane led the Van with the first Squadron Generall Capello brought up the Reer Doria and Gonsaga kept in the two middlemost Doria next the Patriark and Gonsaga next Capello The Fleet staied a while at the Gominizze waiting for the other Imperiall ships which being long a comming finding the season good it sailed towards Santa Maura The Turks when they heard that the Christian Fleet was parted from Corfu and was making towards them wondred very much thinking they had been safe in that Haven and free from suspition they could not perswade themselves that the Fleets could meet together that year nor if they should meet that they would draw so near them and hasard a Battle The unexpected case made them differ the more in their opinions what was to be done some were of opinion that they should have done enough if after having kept possession of the sea almost all that Summer and done much prejudice to the Venetian Towns the Fleet should return safe into the strait of Galipoli and be able as they said to waste the Venetians by prolonging the war and separate the Colleagues forces and intelligence getting the victory by a more secure way They therefore told Barbarossa that it would be best for them to keep in that Haven where by the means of the Castle of Pevesa and by the straitnesse of that Channel they might tarry without danger and have all conveniences the country being their friend and abounding in all things till such time as the Christian Fleet quitting those seas as they would quickly be forced to do by reason of the season of the year and of many other incommodities should leave navigation free and safe for them Others not being able to suffer that the Christians who were wont to retreat and yield unto their power and forces should keep them shut up for fear in that haven propounded their suddain putting forth to sea with their whole Fleet to fight by which generous resolution all fear would be transported from their souldiers into those of the enemy and also all danger They considered that to keep there shut up as it was a badge of infamy so it did not promise any safety to them since they might be kept from comming forth longer then they imagined and their Fleet incommodiated and peradventure assaulted within the haven where the hopes of being able to save themselves by getting soon to land and the seeing themselves fought withall at their own doors would discourage their souldiers from fighting and so it might fall out that without hasarding Battle and without making triall of their military valour and discipline which had alwaies been dreaded by the Christians they should by a new and detestable example reap a certain and ignominious losse That come what would come Soliman would assuredly commend such a generous resolution who having undergone the troubles of so many wars and exposed his person to many dangers meerly out of a desire of glory would not endure that the reputation of his forces should be so much lessened and his happy fortune and that of the Ottaman Empire should be distrusted by refusing to fight with those enemies who came to defie his Commanders in his own Havens and underneath his own Forts Barbarossa was bold and wonted to hasard himself upon fortune and to find her favourable He knew that there were many at Court who envied his glory and greatnesse and that his retreat from Corfu and the bad successe of that enterprise whereof he had been the first author had given them occasion of spreading abroad many rumours which he thought might detract from his reputation and from the favour he was in with Soliman Moreover he had some hopes that though the Christian Commanders should come very near him with their Fleet yet they were not absolutely resolved to fight him He was herein confirmed by the treaties of Agreement held formerly with him by Doria so as the same resolution which would purchase him the praise of a noble daring by comming with his Fleet out of the Gulph seemed to be accompanied with safety He had a Fleet of 150 vessells with oars besides some with sailes wherein though many Galleasses Fly-boats and other lesser vessells were comprehended yet his smaller Bottoms exceeding those of the Christians in number he doubted not the victory if they should fight without their grosse Body the use whereof depended much upon the uncertainty of fortune and of the winds He resolved therefore to carry his Fleet out of the Gulph and to present himself in sight of the Christian Fleet neither seeking nor eschewing Battle but like a wise Commander endeavour to learn the enemies intentions and waies that he might govern himself accordingly Before he drew forth his whole Fleet he sent out a Squadron of 50 Gallies to discover the minds of the Christian Commanders and to discry their goings whether they did really intend to fight or no and in what order they guided their Squadrons The Leagues Fleet steered its course then towards St. Mauro but being informed by those that stood on the top-mast that the enemy was come forth they presently tack'd about and made towards them Their voyage being altered they altered the ordering of the Fleet Generall Capello led on the Van who comming within ken of the Turks made the Gallies of his Squadron give more way playing upon them with his great Guns made them retreat to that place from whence they were parted which they did in such haste being come to discover not to fight as they were put in some disorder every Gally striving which should
victory by which Doria being at last wrought upon and over-come with a certain shame he commanded the rest to advance and he himselfe began likewise to move with his squadron So as the ships being past on our Fleet drew somewhat nearer the enemy who being come to the designed place stood with their Poops to the land and their Prows to seaward Many shot were made though afar off from both sides so as the battle seemed to be already begun yet the gallies advanced no farther on either side Doria hoped that the Turks being terrified by this incounter would quit their Gallies without fighting and seeking to save themselves by land would leave them the Victory void of danger Barbarossa seeing the yarer gallies back'd by the Gallioun and by the Venetian Barza durst come no nearer fearing lest his squadrons might be disordered and his Gallies but badly treated by the Artillery of these stronger ships But Doria seeing his thoughts proved vain and being resolved as his actions shewed not to commit himselfe to the hazard of a battel began plainly to retreat whereat the Turks being incouraged advanc'd so far as many of their Gallies were come near the Barza and the Gallioun which being before the rest and by reason of their bulk could not so soon retreat and a barrel of powder which was above hatches in the Gallioun being set on fire by a Cannon bullet the Marriners and Souldiers were terrified and much disordered But the Captain commanding couragiously and taking order for all things saved them from that danger and would not suffer that any more shot should be made as then against the enemy The like did the Captain of the Barza But when he saw the Turkish Gallies come somewhat nearer they gave them all their Guns at once and made them soon retire But our ships and some of our gallies remained in the like nay in greater danger not being able so unexpectedly to make away so soon as did the rest The Turks seeing them separated fell upon them as upon certain prey Two of the Venetians ships falling on fire in the fight were miserably sunk with all the men in them and two Spanish Vessels having made long and valiant resistance were taken the rest by reason of a favourable winde which arose escaped safe away Two smaller gallies ran the same misfortune the one belonging to the Venetians the other to the Pope the first being commanded by Francisco Capello the other by Abbate Bibiena which having most of their men slain fell into the power of the Turks Others which were in some danger escaped by reason of the darknesse of the night and the whole Fleet of the Confederates save the aforesaid few got safe to the Island of Corfu Doria would be the last that should retreat thinking to shew either greater bravery thereby or his greater care of the Fleets safety But all men knew that this his confidence proceeded not from any courage nor from any good will to the service but for that he knew his Gally to be so yare as that he might easily escape danger But General Capello being aware thereof would not move but at the same time together with him The Turks growing confident upon this retreat of the confederates Fleet were not content to have escaped shame and danger but thought to carry it home to others Wherefore they went with their whole Fleet not long after to the Island of Paru within twelve miles of Corfu where they tarried a good while as if they did defie the Confederates to come out of the Haven and fight and expecting an opportunity to damnifie them But the Confederates Fleet was full of disorder and fear Doria's Stars were thought unfortunate his Loyalty was suspected and all that he advised There was not any one who durst offer at any generous action if any businesse were propounded it soon begot doubts and difficulties even in the propounders Thus all the Gallies keeping in the Haven and no occasion of Action being given the Turks after having insulted over the Christian Fleet fearing some stormy tempestuous weather for now the first week of October was over retired to the gulph of Larta This was the successe of this present year this the end of such preparations for war Great expectation of mighty matters great movings hopes and fears of notable events but no effects answerable either to the mightinesse of the Princes or to the expectation of such forces Yet this age not being accustomed to see such warlick preparations at sea this encounter of the Fleets at Prevesa was very famous but certainly to the little honour and great grief of Christians and to the particular blemish of Doria's reputation who was then and afterwards generally ill spoken of every where some accusing him of perfidiousnesse others of cowardise and of bad affection to Christendom particularly towards the welfare of the Venetians And certainly there were many things which might make his loyalty suspected the friendship which he was known to hold with Barbarossa contracted whilst the one was in the King of France his pay at Marcelles and the other in Algiers the treaties which were known by all men to have been formerly held between them and for that two Galleotte were seen to come from Prevesa the night before the Turkish Fleet appeared the one whereof went into Sicily the other after having accosted Doria's Gally was said to have returned into the Gulph of Prevesa Moreover it was observed that Doria had caused all the main-sail-yards of his Gallies to be blackt over which was suspected might be a signe whereby they might be known from the rest But those who spoke more particularly blamed him for having many immoderate affections as ambition of being great fear of danger to his own person and avarice by which being blinded and not knowing nor valluing any interests but his own he would not hazard himself nor his own particular Gally to the danger of Battle upon the preservation whereof his glory and reputation did depend in regard of the need the Emperour stood in of his service Nay the Spaniards spared not to blame him the Marquis d' Aglier Embassadour from the Emperour at Rome did publickly detest Doria's actions shewing peradventure more fervency therein to free the Emperour from suspition that this might be done by his order Yet the Venetian Senate wisely considering that it made not for them to alienate this mans minde from them who had the government of that Fleet seemed not to be any waies ill satisfied with him writ civilly unto him saying That they believed he like a wise Commander had done what appeared best to him for the good and safety of Christendom Doria hearing of these complaints which were generally made against him was much afflicted insomuch as after his return to Corfu he seldom suffered himself to be seen abroad and when any discourse was had of this businesse in his presence he shewed much passion and was hardly able to
should remain in him who should be declared Captain-Generall of the League which should be Don John of Austria and in his absence Mark Antonio Colonna with the like Authority though he should at the same time retain the name and quality of Generall of the Church That it might be lawfull for Maximilian of Austria the Emperour Elect for the King of France and for the King of Portugall to joyn in this Confederacy and that all the Colleagues should use their uttermost endeavours to perswade them and the other Christian Princes to do so And in case of addition of any other Confedederates it was to be understood that what proportion of expence they should be at should go to the augmenting of the Forces of the League No particular mention was made of dividing such places as should be gotten but it was refer'd to what was exprest and declared in the Articles of the League in the year 37 if any difference should fall out between the Confederates the Pope should be the Arbitrator and Iudge so as that should be no breach of the Confederacy nor any impediment in the execution of what was established therein These Articles being sworn unto as hath been said and afterwards signed and sealed by the Embassadours were ratified by the same Princes within the appointed four moneths But because the Confederates were not bound to the observancy of these things till the next year there was another writing stipulated apart wherein these things were particularly contained which were to be done this year to wit That 80 Gallies and 20 Ships ought to be at Ottranto by the moneth of May to joyn with the Venetian Fleet Those of the Pope Savoy nor Malta not being therein comprehended And because a difficulty arose touching the satisfaction to be given to the Venetians towards the expences pretended unto for having more Gallies than by the covenant they were bound unto It was declared in the same writing that the Pope was to be judge thereof who was notwithstanding to determine particularly that their debt being known it should be made good out of what they ought or should owe to the King of Spain for Corn either formerly had or to be had hereafter the price whereof should be rated by the Pope who took upon him likewise though it was not expresly mentioned in the Writing to determine what satisfaction should be given to the Venetians for their pretences of charge for great numbers of Foot which they maintained in his Sea-Forts more then the Garrisons of those places to make use of them either in the Fleet or otherwise against the enemie as occasion shall serve At the same time that these Treaties of League and Peace were discussing in Venice wherein there was some difference in opinions they all agreed and were very diligent in providing for war It was resolved that 25 Gallies should be set out which should have for their Governours Venetian Gentlemen not onely of the Venetian Nobles but many of those of the Cities of Terra Ferma to the end that in the common cause all might be partakers as well of honours as of dangers and troubles and because their greatest want was of men by reason of the great mortality and the apprehension which was had thereof safe conduct was granted to the Banditi of the Common-wealth to come and serve in the Gallies either as Mariners or Souldiers and all Gentlemen of the Country who would come willingly to that service were exempted from any personall penalties for four years 2000 to serve in Gallies were likewise ordered from the Cities of the Terra Ferma though this tax was formerly wont to be laid onely upon the Country Souldiers were also brought from forrain parts to recruit the Sea Garrisons and for the service of the Fleet. And that nothing might be wanting to try the fortune of war again a new Generall being already chosen as hath been said they would also change the two Commissaries Quirini Captain of the Gulph was chosen in the place of Celsi and Trono Captain of the Ships in Canale's place But he dying at the same time Canale continued in his place Quirini was succeeded in his place of Captain of the Gulph by Trono who was then in the Fleet. Iovanni Venâ—ramini Iov Contarini were afterwards made purveyors who were to have particular care of the publick Monies and of all that was to be delivered out in the Fleet. This mean while Commissary Barbarigo having made haste from Venice was come to Corfu where the Fleet then was as hath been said to whom according to the order of the Senate the Government was assigned over by Generall Zanne But he held it but for a few dayes for Veniero hearing whilst he was in Candia of his election left such orders as he thought convenient for the arming of the Gallies of that Island and suddenly began his journey and comming to Corfu in the beginning of April took solemnly the place and dignity of Generall upon him When Generall Zanne returned to Venice there were many faults laid to his charge and as it often falls out upon such occasions the cause of the bad successes occasioned for the most part from bad seasons and for many almost inseparable accidents were attributed to his negligence and want of experience and whereas a kind of happy Genius had formerly made all his actions be commended and admired whereby it was thought that the publick affairs recommended to his charge should have good successe as he was thought to have been very fortunate in his private condition by reason of his Honour wealth and Children and for that he had twice before been Generall and so succesfull therein as all troubles and dangers ceased as it were with his election so now these so many adversities were taken from off the publick score and laid to his private misfortune Being thus accused of these faults he dyed two years after before he could justifie himself proving the saying true that No man can be said to be happy before his end The affairs of Cyprus and preservation of Famagosta whereupon the hopes of other events did depend were not at this time forgotten but as soon as the season would permit Antonio Quirini who being taken from the Government of Candia had this charge committed to him after Trono's decease departed with four Ships to carry the succour formerly ordered for Famagosta Which that it might the more safely arrive 12 Gallies were given for a convoy to the ships for it was heard that the Turks lay with some Gallies about the Island to hinder the supply Marco Quirini went with his Admirall along with this Convoy who to boot with guarding the succour had the opportunity of doing an honourable action for as he came to Famagosta he made the Ships advance within sight of the Enemy who were in Costanza and lay with his Gallies concealed near Land and seeing seven of the Enemies Gallies come forth to assault our
Turkish Fleet and by hindring the Turks further progresse they were very reserved in falling upon any other undertakings lest if they should prove prosperous the Venetians power and reputation might grow too immoderate whereby the Spanish Fleet might meet with another weighty counterpoise and greater then peradventure might be thought convenient for the safety of the territories which the King of Spain was Master of in Italy Nor wanted there those that said the Grandees of Spain did envy Iohn's glory and that therefore they had held forth his too great Grandezza to the King of Spain as a thing that might cause trouble and danger to his Dominions But what the true cause of these proceedings was is unknown for the Spaniards were so close in concealing their counsells as without appearing alienated from having the Fleets meet or from the enterprises of the Levant for fear of the French or out of any other respect they still affirmed the contrary giving daily hopes that they would go to Corfu which they were very crafty in doing for they knew very well that if the Venetians should have any the least suspition of being abandoned by the Colleagues they would be forced to come to some agreement with the Turks which for some other respects would be inconvenient for the Spaniards for then they must of themselves alone withstand the forces of so great a Potentate against whom they had alwaies profest enmity Thus and for these reasons did not the Spaniards discover their intrinsicall thoughts but finding sometimes one cause of delay sometimes another spun on time without doing any thing At this time did Pope Pius Quintus die which caused a generall grief being taken away very unseasonably when Christendom was was in so great need for he being a sanctified man and very zealous of the common good and consequently of great authority and reverence with all Christian Princes was held by all to be an excellent means of keeping up the League and of encreasing the power and reputation thereof giving also great hopes of making way for some notable acquisition by the Christians and for the suppressing of the barbarous Infidells As soon as his death was heard of the Venetian Senate wrote suddenly to the Colledge of Cardinalls praying them that they would not suffer the affairs of the League to slacken wherein the late Pope had been so zealous since any the least protraction might prove very prejudiciall and might hinder the happy proceedings against the enemy They were all of them very well minded to pursue the war and that they might proceed the more resolutely the employment was presently confirmed to those very Cardinalls who were formerly deputed by Pius Quintus to negotiate the affairs belonging to the League who were very diligent in ordering all things necessary But the interâ—all of Popedom was but very short for the Consistory of Cardinalls meeting they the very first day chose Hugo Buoncompagno Cardinall of San â—esto Pope who took upon him the name of Gregory the 13th a Bulligonesse by Nation a Doctor of Law who had lived long in the Court of Rome and was held to be a just man but of a soure and austere nature well minded but meanly witted and not much experienced in managing of State-affairs This election was much favoured by the Spaniards and particularly by Cardinall â—ranville were it either that Hugo whilst he was Legaâ— in Spain had won the Kings favour by his integrity or else as some others said because he was known then to be so moderate a man as that it was thought when he should be Pope he would prove such a Prince as in many respects would make for the advantage of the Catholick King particularly for the safety and preservation of his territories in Italy Pope Pius Quintus his death brought great disturbances to the uniting of the Fleets though Gregory as soon as he was crowned confirmed the League in the same manner as his Predecessor had done For Don Ioâ—n who sought to protract time began more to scruple his departure considering that he could not of himself resolve to move with his Fleet any where unlesse he should receive new orders from Spain which he notwithstanding giving hopes should be suddainly had according to the common desire was the reason why the Venetian forces did as yet nothing and continuing still the same course he according as he thought time required his answer did continually inâ—imate his suddain departure affirming it so particularly as that he writ to Generall Foscherini he stayed onely from comming to Corfu in expectation of the Duke of Sessa who if he should not come all the sooner he would assuredly come away without him Nay he blamed Colonna's counsell who expecting some few gallies from Florence did so long delay his comming to joyne with them The Senate had commanded Generall Foscherini to wait for the comming of the Spanish gallies and not to attempt any thing nor to employ those his forces in any enterprise whereby the common concernment and further progresse might be retarded But the Venetians being desirous that their Forces might be somewhere felt by the Enemy resolved to attempt Castel Nuovo Sâ—iâ—rra Martiningo being the chiefe adviser thereunto who having been the preceding year at Catarro and having had opportunity to inform himselfe well propounded it as a thing easie to be done This man was born in Bressia of a noble Family though illegitimaâ—ely and being banisht upon occasion of private enmities had been long in the French Wars where he had won much repute for military valour And upon occasion of this War he had noâ— onely obtained a safe conduct but was made as it is said Generall Governour of Albania every one conceiving well of him His advice being imbraced and his speeches believed all things werâ— provided which he desired as necessary for this action The taking of Castel Nuovo was very much desired by the Venetians not out of meer consideration of the thing it selfe it being a little Town of no great circuit not very strong nor well inhabited but for the many advantages which might be had thereby For it stands almost in the mouth of the Gulph of Catarro near whereunto the land thrusts out and streightens the Channel so as they who are the possessors thereof may hinder any from passing further into the Gulph which winding towards the Levant makes an other great Creek which is safe from storms wherein any Fleet how numerous soever may upon any occasion ride safely and in the utmost part thereof stands the City of Catarro which cannot be by any other way supply'd with Garrisons Victualls or any other necessaries it being invironed every where on the Lands side by the Turkish Territories Sciarra having imbarkt himselfe at Chioggia with 5000 foot whereof many were French gallant men and very well disciplin'd went with great expectation of success towards the Gulph of Catarro bringing orders with him to Generall Veniero from the Councill of
Ten by whom this businesse was negotiated to assist the Enterprise so as meeting him near Liesena they joyn'd together and went to the mouth of the Gulph of Catarro and passing a little forward tarryed in a narrow place which by reason of the streightnesse thereof may easily be shut up and is commonly called Le Catene or the Chaine Here they thought they might most safely land their men all that coast of Castel Nuovo being full of Flats which in bad weather are very dangerous Whence it hapned that a shallop wherein Colonell Castracani's men were not being able to keep at anchor was by the fury of the wind driven on ground which the Turks being aware of they got upon a little hill not far off and by Musket-shot slew some of those that were in her who were not able to make any defence so as inforc'd by necessity they went on land though in an enemie's Country and finding themselves backt by some of our Gallies they were the better incouraged and did for a while withstand the Enemy though they were far inferiour to them in number till such time as some Boates were sent out unto them wherein most of them saved themselves After this the rest of the men were landed without any opposition which being done Martiningo ordered his Brother Silla to march immediately with a band of 200 French Harchibugiers by the way of the Mountain which stands on the right hand of Castel-Nuovo and that he should indeavour to make himselfe Master of some important Passes whereby he apprehended the Enemy might be relieved and he made as many more French Souldiers march towards the Town conducted by Captain Santa Maria and for the rest of his men he gave the charge of the Battel to his Serjeant Maiore Carlo Frisone a Bergamas Captain the reereward to Latino Orâ—inâ— and put himselfe in the Van and marcht thus in three squadrons the one a little after the other In this order he drew very near the Fort the land Forces being still backt by the Gallies which coasted along the shore and observed what way they went Then Martiningo having placed Corps de Guards in severall places fell presently to make Trenches having brought good store of Pioners to that purpose from Catarro and began to plant Cannon But these works were mightily disturb'd by frequent shot from within the Town so as being to use more time then was imagined the news of our mens arrivall and of the expugning of Castel-Nuovo was noysed in the neighbouring places whereby many came from severall parts to the reliefe thereof by wayes unknown to our men and chiefly on that part whither Silla Martiningo was sent to guard the Pass the enemy grew so numerous as though Silla was furnisht with more men from his Brother it was clearly seen no such succour could be sent him as was able to make good that Pass which whilst it was open they had great conveniency of bringing Garrisons to raise the siege and free the Fort from danger which when the Captains considered and found that the businesse grew every day worse on their side they began to think they should not be able to get the Town so quickly as they had imagined it being much better furnished with defendants than they thought Wherefore it was resolved to recall the Souldiers which were sent to guard the Passes who could not retreat without some danger and at the same time to reimbark the Artillery and the rest of their men it being then the opinion of all men that whatsoever they should attempt would prove unsuccesfull and not void of danger So as raising the siege Generall Veniero came to Zara and Sciarra with his French Souldiers returned to the custody of Catarro Thus ended this Enterprise not otherwise then was foreseen by many before who thought it a vain design to be able to storm Castel-Nuovo in so short a time with so few men it not being likely that a Fort esteemed very much by the Turks and which they had used so great warlike preparations to get some few years before should in so dangerous a time be left with a small Garrison to the discretion of the Enemy nor yet that being placed in a Country so full of Souldiers the succors would be long a comming which might be brought from the neighbouring parts This success being therefore answerable to the advice made Martiningo lose much reputation who was formerly well esteemed of by many rather for couragious daring than for military wisdome This afforded just occasion to Mehemet Bashaw of upbraiding the weaknesse of our Counsels and forces as he was discoursing with the Venetian Baylo These were the Christians actions which were not answerable to the reputation they had won by so famous a Victory the Fleet lying at Corfu and Messina with all their Souldiers idle spectators of the Enemies insultings at Sea vvanting forces to make any important attempts elsewhere and the worst was that the forces lay not then onely idle but did much lessen vvasting their Victualls and losing many men dayly through sufferings and want of action Wherefore there being no appearance of Don Iohns departure from Messina Generall Foscherini infinitely weary of such delayes was still thinking of severall affairs He propounded to attempt something by himselfe alone he discours'd with such as were skilfull in the Enemies forts and in their inhabitants in those parts nothing troubled his mind which was full of aspiring thoughts and greatly desirous of glory and of maintaining the good opinion which he had won more then quiet But at last tempering his bolder counsells vvith mature wisdome he got the mastery of himselfe He knevv it became him not to attempt any thing vvith small forces left if the Enemies Fleet should advance he must be forced to let it passe and lessen much the reputation of the League to their great prejudice especially to those Christians who were subjects to the Turk and who being incouraged by the happy success at Lepanto were risen but he chiefly shun'd doing any thing which might be displeasing to the Spaniards or which might give them any just excuse of being faulty to the common obligations which he did the rather for that all other acquisitions were held poor all enterprises to no purpose in respect of what might be hopâ—d for by fighting the Enemies Fleet with the whole Colleagues forces which was alwayes the Senates intention greatly indeavouring this union and hoping therein very much Foscherini being much troubled with these difficulties and finding no better remedy for the sore loss of time he thought it expedient to send the Commissary Soranzo who was now return'd from Candia to Messina hoping that this wisdome and dexterity together with this demonstration of honour might work much with Don Iohn and might make him hasten his journey Soranzo parted thus from Corfu vvith 25 Gallies being to make the whole voyage with bad winds so as he could not avoid all inconveniences some of his
near did not joyn Battel since the greatest and most certain hope of victory was reduced to industry and to indeavouring to draw each other to fight upon the advantage of such forces wherein each did exceed the other Uluzzali indeavoured therefore by severall means to shun incountring with the greater Vessels and to deprive the lesser Gallies of their assistance and taking the advantage of the Lee-shore he intended for as much as vvas conceived to keep himselfe from shot of the greater Vessels and to assault our left wing either on the Poop or Flank But Commissary Canale who commanded that wing preventing him blockt up the passage and deprived him of that opportunity Wherefore Uluzzali trying to work his intent by some other means commanded 25 of his yarer gallies to go from the part that was nearest the Island of Cervi and to assault our right Wing which was commanded by our Commissary Generall hoping to disorder it and by drawing other of our gallies to defend it to engage all our lesser gallies in fight far from the ships and galleasses which being totally becalmed lay unmoveable But Commissary Soranzo resolving valiantly to withstand those that came to assault him before they should be come nearer him repuls'd them by frequent shot and making them retire towards their other Squadrons began to pursue them close and to endanger them and was followed by the Fleet but they were forc'd to proceed slowly by reason of so much towing So as many hours being spent and our men not being able to advance faster with their joynt forces and the enemy not willing to accost them before he had divided them when the Sun began to set Uluzzali secured by the comming on of night and by the great smoak of the Artillery began to make his gallies be towed back by little and little yet turning their Prowes but at last he took the advantage of the point of the Island Cerigo and turning his Prow he launch'd out into the sea and got quite out of the sight of our men and out of danger our men not being able to follow them any further by reason of the slownesse of towing and of the wearinesse of their men nor could they well discern then what course he took as well by reason of the obscurity of night as also by a stratagem which he used in his flight having sent one Gally with a light in the lant-horn quite another way than whither he went with his whole Fleet to make it be believed that he was gone the same way But the next morning the enemy was kend to be towards Brazzo di Maina Our men having kept the most part of that night at sea went to the North Cape of the Island of Cerigo to take in water and to afford some rest to their wearied Rowers where having tarried that day and part of the next for they understood by their Guards from land that the enemies Fleet was discovered to be not far off they speedily embarcked their men and went to where they heard the Turkish Fleet was which not being to be found any where that day our Fleet kept all that night at sea in very good order But on the tenth of August the enemy were discovered to be upon the Cape Matapan who keeping their Gallies with their Forecastles towards land kept about the coast on both sides the Cape Uluzzali seeing himself found out by our Fleet gave warning by shot of Cannon to his Gallies which lay furthest off to come closer together and suddenly put himself in order being especially cautious not to put himself in such a place as he might be forced to fight with our greater vessells wherefore he took a great circuit keeping his two wings half a mile distant from the body of the Battle wherein he kept in the midst He faced our Fleet which came towards him in somewhat a closer order expecting that our Generalls allured by hopes of an easie victory should pass forwards beyond their ships and galliasses to fight his Squadron whilst it was divided and severed from his other gallies And in the mean while the two Wings of the enemy taking a large compasse seemed as if they would encompasse our men and assault them on the back out of danger of our greater vessells so as they should not be able to assist our Generalls if they should come to conflict with their middle Squadron Which designe being found out by our Commanders orders were forthwith sent to those that were in both the Wings that observing vigilantly what course the enemy should steer keeping their Forecastles stil turned towards them they should not suffer them to passe beyond our Fleet. Thus each Fleet facing the other alwaies in all parts they were already come within Canon-shot At this so great a pinch Generall Foscherini being ambitious of praise and of doing somewhat which might be answerable to the opinion of his conceived gallantry took a small boat going sometimes to one place sometimes to another and endeavouring to be every where he ordered commanded provided for all things necessary He desired the governours and captains of the gallies to be carefull of themselves and to remember the last year's happy successe saying That these were those very enemies who not many months ago were with so much glory overcome by them in Battle nay that they were the poorest and least couragious amongst them for all the ablesâ— and most generous were slain in the last Battle and those that escaped were full of fears That the very reputation of the late victory would assuredly be sufficient to fight for them against cow'd people and who had lost their courage by the bad successe of the last Battle whose Admirall would be the first that should teach them to flie as it became his trade of Pyracy and as he had done in the last fight That there was not any who had not earnestly desired to have an opportunity of fighting the enemy believing that therein lay the chief difficulty of getting another no lesse famous victory That this opportunity was by divine Providence now offered them when they did most desire it and looked least for it That if they should now again suffer the enemy to escape away safe when their forces were so weak they might in vain seek an occasion hereafter of suppressing them for growing in time more powerfull and more bold they would bereave â—hem of the occasion or of the easinesse of other victories nay they might deprive them of the fruit of that victory which they had already gotten Therefore the end of that war and the fortune of the Common-wealth for some ages did depend upon that daies successe If they valued their own glory the good of their country the exaltation of Christendom let them now fall boldly upon the enemy since they had that now before their eyes which was able to inflame poorly spirited men much more such as were noble and generous But that if any one