should bereave the Queen of her Regency imprison the Prince of Condé and rid their hands of the Cardinal and of all others that should oppose their designes But this Designe being precipitous and undecent the Duke of Longueville who was of a more composed minde appeared somewhat cool and irresolute therein He made some difficulty touching the new half yearly Parliament of Roan which being almost wholly composed of Parisians of such Families as were interested in the Court would never have consented to such Novelties But the old Six months Parliament composed of antient Counsellours who were disgusted for Injuries suffer'd formerly by Cardinal Richelieu seemed readier to accept of all violent Councels The Duke would therefore have the Conspiracy carried on till the first were gone and till the Army being engaged in the Field against the Spaniards way might be made for any Tumult The King's Officers perceiving these designes and knowing that a speedy Remedy must be found out for this spreading Malady the fittest Expedients were propounded and diversly discust in the King 's Privy Council Every one knew that the Declaration of the 28 of October struck dangerously at the Regal Authority since Rebels and seditious people could not be punished nor the War be continued in its wonted Vigour the Revenue being so sensibly diminished when there was greatest need of it and when these destructive designes were plotted by the Frondeurs in their secret Meetings The Prince of Condé being desirous to increase his Reputation in Paris and in the Court as he had immortaliz'd his Glory in the Field prest that the King and Queen might remove from Paris and that the City might be besieged promising that it would be forc'd to comply with their Majesties in all their desires within fifteen days This Opinion was back'd by Secretary Tillier saying That if Pane Gonezza bread from Gonezza were but twice wanting the City would soon be in confusion as not being able to subsist without abundance of Victuals Gonezza is a Town seven Leagues from Paris where there are many Mills and Bakehouses which furnish so great a quantity of Bread twice a week as serves to feed half that numerous people of Paris The Cardinal knowing that Paris did abound in Corn and other necessaries and that all Provisions could not be kept out without a numerous Army considered that the Siege might be a business of length and subject to some bad accidents and that the innocent people ought not to be punished for their sake who were guilty he therefore propounded that the Queen should go to the Arsenal pretending to go to her Devotions in St. Mary-Church which was neer hand that the King should also go thither out of the City as if he meant to go hunt accompanied by all the Princes and great men of the Court as also all the Officers of the Treasury upon usual pretence of Negotiating therein with Marshal Milleray who was Governour of the Arsenal and Superintendant of the Finances and that bringing the Army to several quarters about the City the people should be told that their meaning onely was that some few of the Parliament should come out of the City which when it should be done the rest would easily be kept within the bounds of duty since the Cardinal was not generally hated and that they were but a few who excited by ambition did cavil against the Government This Opinion was seconded by Marshal Milleray a friend to bold resolutions and had been embraced had not the necessity of expecting necessary Troops which were some leagues off and the assembling of the Regiment of Guards which was quartered in several places rendred the business somewhat knotty For at every least stirring the people would have taken up Arms and drawn their Chains as they were like to have done some days before upon the meer Advertisement that six Companies of the Guard were assembled together before the Louvre to receive Captains in the places of those that were slain at the Battel of Lens They were therefore forced to put on such resolutions as shall be said in the following Book Though when the tumultuous Frondeurs heard afterwards of this they grew so bold as to laugh at it declaring That they valued not the King's Forces and that Paris was well enough stored with People and Provision So that as soon as the Decree should have been out there would have been above 50000 men in Arms ready to have put it in execution and if the Court should have attackt the Parisians there would have been two Armies of 50000 men apiece ready in an instant one to have followed the Court whithersoever it had gone and the other to have armed the Frontiers of Flanders against the Spaniards to the end that they might not make use of these civil Discords And these insulting Speeches were utter'd without any manner of shame even by many who were well reputed in War and in civil Government by which it is seen that Humane Judgment hath no more deformed Disease than that which blindes the eyes of the Understanding Whilst Affairs went thus in Paris Mareshal â—antzaw hearing that the Spaniards after the blow given them at Lens were got together at Steinchirk a Village within a league of the Village Furnes marched towards them but not being stay'd for he took the Abby of Duns and drew neer Furnes intending either to take it or to oblige Marquiss Sfondraâ—o who was come into those parts to rally the remainder of the routed Troops to retreat from whence Monsieur di Voubecourt Camp-master advanc'd from Burgues St. Venaux to Bulcamp and the Marquiss di Chastelnâ—au Macuisâ—ere who was also Camp-master fell upon Iaquesburg with other Souldiers taken out of Dunkirk and joyning all the Troops together by Bridges thrown over those Channels he forc'd the Spaniards who were at Steinchirk to retreat from thence by night to Dismuda so as the way being open for the French to assault Furnes they advanced towards it And the Prince of Condé as he went with Erlack's Troops to visit the Trenches which were already open the 4th of September was hit with a Musket-shot the force whereof being spent it made onely a contusion in the upper part of his thigh and did him no more hurt The ninth at night Arnault lodg'd on the right side and Castelneau on the left of the Brink of the Ditch and forthwith began to pass over it and to fall upon the Walls of the Town but the besieged wanting both Meat and Warlike Ammunition capitulated the next day that the Souldiers and Officers should remain Hostages in the hands of Marshal Rantzaw to be exchanged for such French as were taken the year before in the attempt made against Ostend to which effect five Officers of the Garrison of Furnes were suffered to go to Newport to negotiate the Exchange And about 1000 Souldiers went out the same night and were lodged in the French Quarters having good Guards upon them And thus did the
honest and permanent Peace he had sent him to the Members of Parliament who he knew were concern'd in the real Interest of the King and State to offer them to be Arbitrators of the Peace and that his Catholick Majesty would willingly submit to their judgment wherein if they would not be Judges he would permit the same Parliament to chuse Deputies out of their own Members and to let them be in what place they pleased yea even in Paris if they would and that the King of Spain would send his Deputies thither to treat of and to conclude a good and convenient Peace sufficient to give lasting quiet to the two Crowns In which Treaty the Duke of Lorain should be comprised who refused to accommodate himself to the Cardinal but kept joyned to the Spanish party That he had declared he had well-nigh 20000 men upon the Frontiers and that he would pass his word not to meddle with any of the Towns of the Kingdom as he easily might do considering how bad a condition they were in there being but 200 Foot in Peronne as many in St. Quintins and fewer in Chatelet and proportionally in other Towns That he had offered all these Forces to serve the Parliament if they should have occasion for them and that they might make use of them as they should please and make them be conducted by French Officers such as did depend upon the Parliament or that they might take what other course they pleased to free themselves from all fear that the said Forces should do any thing otherwise than for the service of the Parliament and according to their intentions And in case they should have no occasion to make use of them he would pass his word they should keep upon the Frontiers and do nothing whilst the Peace was negotiating He concluded with desire of an Answer which he might carry back to his Master These offers were debated in Parliament with diversity of opinion according as men were diversly concerned the greater number were minded rather to yield to the lawful fair pretences of their King than to be obstinate in those pretensions which being fomented by Forreigners must needs be ruinous The most of the Generals were of this sense who being sorry that they had entred into this Labyrinth sought all means to reconcile themselves to the Court and to reap that satisfaction by submission which is easilier in the Clemency than in the Justice of a Soveraign They considered that they were not of themselves to withstand the King That the Parisians were weary of the Siege That their Victuals grew daily less That the people would one day value Bread more than all the Victories and advantages of the Parliament or Princes That to throw themselves into the Arms of the Spaniards who were naturally their Enemies was to shun an April-shower and expose themselves to a Winter-tempest for that doubtedly they sought to weaken both parties equally that they might put the Yoak upon them both That if the French could so ill endure one sole Forreigner who was so affectionate and so advantageous to their King it was to be imagined that so many others who were naturally Enemies to France would be more hateful to them That if they had taken up Arms to obtain satisfaction from the Court they ought to endeavour the getting of it in this conjuncture of time than which they could not wish a better whilst for fear they should close with the Spaniard the Court would be glad to come to an agreement These things being thus reflected upon the first President the Presidents of Mesmes and Viola for the Grand Chamber the Counsellors of Chaumont and others for other Chambers and Courts were chosen to go at Deputies from the Parliament to the Queen to thank her for having received their former Members so gratiously to desire her that she would make good her words and raise the Siege before Paris as also to carry her a Copy of the Arch-Duke's Letter and acquaint her with what Arnolfini had said that their Majesties might see how sincerely the Parliament was minded not to fall from their due obedience by which generous action they hoped to regain the Regent's favour and make her yield to such an agreement as was desired by those that were wisest both in Parliament and Paris The Princes sent also Messengers with secret Instructions not to confer with any of the Kings Deputies save joyntly with those of the Parliament of Paris of Roan and with those of Duke Longueville and that touching the manner of Conference they should do as those of the Parliament did and regulate themselves according to the conference at Ruel That if those that were sent by Longueville and by the Parliament of Roan should not be come to where the meeting was to be they should wait their coming That if the Court should insist upon any Instruction contrary to this Instruction they should presently send word to the Prince of Conty and do nothing till they should have received an answer That in case the Court-Deputies should pretend that such a condition were repugnant to the full and absolute power which the Deputies ought to have and that they should refuse to do any thing without their present consent they should demand time to let Conty know it that there might be no interruption in the Conference That they should be careful to give daily intelligence of what should pass That they should demand for the Parliament and for Paris all that was demanded at the Conference of Ruel That they should pretend for the Parliament and for all the Territory thereof whatsoever was demanded by the Parliament at the Conference of Ruel That they should also insist upon the execution of all the Decrees of Parliament for the ease of the people and for a discharge of all the Taxes for two years for the Parishes belonging to the Territory of Paris and for 8 Leagues about the City in respect of their being ruinated by the passage and by the abode of the Kings Army That because the people could not expect ease nor the State safety during the War they should insist upon proceeding of the Treaty of Peace and that they should name some of the Parliament and of the Prince's people that it might be proceeded in effectually and unimpeded by any that were concern'd in the War and before Spain could make advantage of the present discords of France and to oblige the Arch-Duke who had offered the Parliament to become Arbitrator of all differences and to see all the promises performed that nothing should be undertaken against the Kingdom as appeared by a Letter of the 10 th of February and that in case of denial the Deputies should enter their Protestation against whatsoever mischief might thereby happen unto France or Christendom That the Article of Oblivion should be confirmed in terms answerable to the Treaty of Loudun in the year 1606 made with the late Prince of Condé Father to
fifth of that Moneth Whilest they were upon this discourse Beaufort came in who appeared much astonished that he should be blamed for the last days sedition and that a Soldier should be imprisoned that swore against him But the Duke of Orleans was not well satisfied with Ballieule that the meeting of the Parliament should be denied The same night whilest President Maison was going to L'Hostelle d'Orleans as he came out he was followed by many Plebeians who cried A Mazarinian and kill him He got into the next House the door whereof was assaulted that they might have him out but Beaufort and Conde coming in kept him from danger and brought him to L'Hostelle d'Orleans assuring the people That he was no Mazarinian At last on the Twenty fifth of Iune the Assemblies met being assured by the Princes that they should not be injured by the people And here Orleans and Conde declared That if the King would send the Cardinal away according to his Declaration of the Sixth of September last they would readily do what was desired inthe Kings Letter which was brought by their Commissioners After this there was no more rubs in the business only whether this Declaration should be sent by the Kings men or by the Commissioners of Parliament who had been imployed formerly or by others that should be chosen out of each Chamber whereunto all the Princes consented excepting Nesmond whom they suspected to have brought Moneys in his late imployments from the Court and that he held secret Conference with Mazarines friends This clause caused no little confusion in the Assembly all the Counsellors holding it very strange that they should be guided by the will of the Princes where their Votes ought to be free and independent This business was argued three hours and the wiser sort thinking the Princes pretentions to be unsupportable bewailed the misfortune of the times And finding palpably that to shun obedience to the King they fell into the subjection of the Princes they found that they must use the Princes as the Court had done the Parliament refusing all things that might proceed from another authority For in such cases by degrees desires turn to commands and he who would not be forced to obey ought not suffer commands They therefore resolved to send back the same Nesmond and the other Commissioners to tell the King That if the Cardinal were sent away according to the Declaration of the Sixth of September the Princes would lay down Arms and do all that his Majesty demanded of the Parliament Thus the Assembly ended and at the coming forth the Counsellors were kept back by a croud of people crying out Peace and union with the Princes whereby it appeared that their design was to make the Parliament and the City declare for many of the Soldiers of the Army were got among the Plebeians which caused a dangerous commotion against the whole Parliament many of the Counsellors whereof were pursued into the Neighboring Houses not without danger of life for many shot were made at them Many men were slain and many wounded President Noion had great fortune to escape for he was pursued by the people thorough two or three Streets The Lieutenant of Civil Causes got into the Castle with some Counsellors where he was beset by the rout who thought to fire it not being able to get in by reason of the number of Guard that defended it and they had fired it had it not been for Monsieur Mitton Colonel of that Quarter who with his Company made them retreat Other Counsellors and Presidents shifted for themselves the best they could the sedition lasted till night drew on with much horror and confusion It was mightily declaimed against not only in Parliament but in the Town-house and it was resolved to provide for the common safety When the Parliament met Monsieur Champrond was ordered to make process against the chief Authors of the Sedition as also against those that had printed and published infamous Libels against the Court and Parliament moreover a Monatorio Ecclesiastico a Declaration of the Clergy was given out against the Complices of the aforesaid things and the Provost des Merchants Consuls and Sheriffs and other chief Citizens resolved That the Captains and Colonels of each quarter should have their Guards in readiness and should place a Corps de Guard about the publick Palace to keep off further insolences and preserve the freedom of Parliament But sufficient provision not being had for the desired quiet there being more that followed the party of the Princes then of the Parliament and Council of the City it was concluded That the most expedient means for the indempnity of Paris and the Parliament should be taken in a General Assembly of all the Inhabitants on the Fourth of Iuly The Duke of Lorrain being this mean while dis-incamped from Villa Nova he went on the Seventeenth of Iune to Briacomte Rubert from thence by Columniere to Secana and so by degrees till he got out of the Kingdom which caused apprehensions that he had betrayed the Princes and which caused great trepidations in those that were of the contrary faction to the Court It being thought that the Kings Army being free from the Lorrainers should incamp before Paris and that the Princes should be forced to comply but when the truth was known the Duke was justified and it was known that all was caused by the Spaniards who were afraid That if the Duke of Lorrain should stay in France and joyn with the Princes the King would be forced to make peace and the Cardinal would be dismissed Wherefore they sent for him back to the end That the Court being strengthned by his retreat might not moderate her pretentions but maintain those divisions which it made for them to soment The Kings Army being gone from Estampes where there was no more Corn and the place much infected by the dead bodies of Men and Horses which lay unburied the rest of the Forces were made to remove and abandon that Town which was more then half distroyed when through the news that was given out that Lorrain had betrayed the Princes whose Army was thereby exposed to the iujuries of the Kings Forces who might pass over the Seene upon the Bridge of Boats which was surrendred by the Lorrainers The Prince went out with only twenty Horse amongst which were the Dukes of Rochefaucolt and Nemeurs and Prince Marilliack and went not without danger of being taken to joyn with his men who were marching towards Paris and came with them to the Seene over against Villanova S. George where the Kings Army lay And the next day hearing what had past in treaty with Duke Charles he came to between S. Clow and Surenne within two leagues of Paris on the River side and upon the way to S. Germans whither those few Forces that they had in Paris were also sent wherewith they made a Camp of about Five thousand men Which Army was provided of
Law and to the prejudice of the Legitimate Possessor but as for the pretended Sheriffs who made it still lawful to execute those Offices pretending to quit them when they should know his Majesties pleasure to the contrary they could not but know that their Election was greatly displeasing to him wherefore he again commanded them to forgoe the said Places immediately upon pain of such punishment as was due to Rebels and disturbers of the Publick Peace As for his return to Paris the pith of his Answer was That when his Enemies should be gone out he would suddenly return thither He concluded That as he was much satisfied with the Expulsion made by the Commons House of those who were entred thereinto unduly and contrary to his Majesties intention so he could not approve but did annul whatsoever should be done in the said Assembly whilst the Rebels and their Adherents should be there Whilst things went thus at Court they forbare not to solicit the effecting of their intents at Paris and the Parisians troubles encreasing still by the continuance of the Spanish Forces about that City part of the Duke of Wirteâ—berg's Baggage was sackt in the Street St. Honore whilst the Conductors of them were busie in carrying Vine Muscade and Spanish-wine from the Taverns to the Confederates Camp and strickt Order was taken that no more of the Army should enter whereat the Parliament and Princes were much astonished finding that their power grew less and less and they were yet more amazed when they saw their straw out-done by the white Hatbands and Girdles which were worn by many of the King's Friends The Assembly at the Palace-Royal being advertised that Beaufort's Guards were to convey Bread du Pois wisht Gandry Captain of the Guard at Paris to throw away his straw as a mark of Sedition and to take white Ribbon the Loyal Colour and threatned that he should be assaulted if he did not for the Assembly had resolved to attack those who wore no white Ribbons or Paper and this was to begin at St. Martins Gate where his Guard was to be These words prevailed so as not only this Captain but all his Souldiers put on white and drunk the King's Health and Mazarine's and made Monsieur Vaugrimaux and Beaufort's Guards do the like who as they would have gone out at the Gate were hindred by Chassan Ligny and du Pois who told them they were not to pass without Pasports from the King or his Generals and that they might be known to be the King's Servants by wearing white Vaugrimaux answered That he had the Princes Pass Answer was made They doubted not that but that they must drink the King's health and return back which they did in their Hats for want of Bowls Beaufort hearing this got on Horse-back to hinder it but understanding the other Gentlemens resolution he forbare This beginning was followed by great and happy advantages to the King's Party many others vying who should follow the Example The King being satisfied with these demonstrations Commanded on the 29th of September that passage should be open for carriage of Corn Wine Wood and all other Necessaries for the livelihood of so numerous a People The Answer that he afterwards gave to the Merchants Commissioners was That his Majesty was very sensible of the new testimonies of Affection and Fidelity shew'd by his beloved City of Paris that for his return to Paris he would say no more to them than he had done to the Commissioners of the Town-House a Copy whereof he gave them He only added That they needed to send no more to him for Peace since he had already granted it by his Amnesty declared in his Parliament at Pontois The Form or Words whereof were It became not Subjects to censure since the most Guilty found therein Pardon for all their Faults but that they were to apply themselves to those who caused the War to continue because they thereby reaped advantage that they were only to complain of them since his Majesty had without any condition granted what was desired yet they going from their words so solemnly given disposed still of the Royal Authority to the great prejudice of his Majesty and of his State keeping themselves joyn'd in Arms to the declared Enemies of the Crown contrary to their promise keeping the Chief City of the Kingdom in continual apprehension by continuing Violence and Sedition whereby the French were sackt and ruin'd by Strangers Wherefore all men being concern'd in putting an end to such disorders He hoped they would use their endeavours to put Paris into her former condition notwithstaâ—ding the Enemies to Peace He ended his Answer with a desire of a Testimony of their good intentions and as that which was more necessary than any thing else that they would re-establish the Provost de Merchants and the Sheriffs who were driven away to their Places which when it should be done he would send such Orders as he intended should be observed by the Town-House assuring the Merchants of his satisfaction goodwill and Patronage The Chief of this Commission was Monsieur Pratin Ancient Consul of the City who spoke first of sending the Soldiers away desiring his Majesty to favour Paris with his presence and to give Peace unto his Kingdom assuring his Majesty of the Parisians Loyalty and Obedience When Pratin had done Monsr Brun a Mercer declared the affection of his heart mingling tears and sighs with his words protesting that he was ready to sacrifice his life for his Majestie 's Service and that he spoke for a hundred thousand men that were of the same mind Yea turning to the Queen who was present he desired her to move the King to satisfie his People with Peace The King appeared very well disposed thereunto and to give his Subjects all the satisfaction they could desire Then Monsienr Perichon a Mercer and a Master of L' Hostella de Dieu represented the publick Miseries the great number of sick people the small Revenue that the Houses in the Countries were plunder'd the Farmers ruin'd that there was no remedy for all these evils but his Majesties presence at Paris All the rest spoke to the same purpose The King reply'd He would shortly give them all satisfaction and Monsieur St. Tot wisht them all to withdraw and they were conducted by Count Nogent to the Convent of the Franciscan Friers where they were lodged and defray'd These passages did greatly move the Princes Parliament and all that Faction and finding that Paris was alter'd and desired Peace which destroy'd their designes they apply'd themselves to think how they might beat the King's Army and become Masters of the Field which was thought to be the only means for them to keep in Paris The Duke of Guise labour'd his freedom in the Spanish Court and after several Treaties it was offered That if the Queen Regent of France would change all the Prisoners she had upon the account of Spain they would set the Duke
fury of an exasperated and incensed people with whom no fair means nor reason would prevail He said There was no way to prevent greater disorder but by setting the Prisoners at liberty and on his knees beseeched her Majesty That by being gratious she would recover her former quiet The Queen called her Council unto her and told them that some proper expedient for the present Emergency must be taken Those who had advised to this Resolution were mute not knowing whereupon to ground their ill-given Councel The Cardinal and Mareshal Villeroy ponderated the business and were of opinion that as affairs of great importance ought not to be slightly undertaken so when they were once taken they were to be made good there being no so bad resolution as to succumb to inconstancy Their opinion therefore was that if it were possible they should stand to the first Sentence and shew no signe of weakness but if this were not to be done it would be an unpardonable pertinacity to run with folly headlong upon impossibilities Mareshal Milleray being much incensed at the Parisians iusolence propounded that if two Field-pieces could be got and five hundred Foot they should make their way to the Bastille fighting and assaulting the Barricadoes firing such houses as should use any hostility This resolution was not embraced for many reasons particularly by reason of their Majesties goodness The Cardinal not believing the confusion to be so great as was given out resolved to be an eye-witness thereof himself and went incognito into the streets of Beusenfans and St. Honoré where he found the Rout making more use of their tongues than of their hands he therefore kept two nights on foot undauntedly and careful to defend himself and to use such means as should be fittest for the present Emergency The Parliament should have considered the Regent's Answer in the accustomed great Chamber but not being able to get thither by reason of the peoples fury and insolency who peradventure might have used some outrage against them the Counsellours were desired to meet in the Gallery at the Palace-Royal a thing unusual Here met that Soveraign Assembly The Chancellour spoke in behalf of the Court declaiming against the rash and misbecoming behaviour of the people and perswaded those Gentlemen not to adhere to so rash an action The Counsellours were sumptuously feasted and entertained by the King which being interpreted by them to be an apprehension which the Court had of them made them put an higher esteem upon themselves Several were the opinions which were held by the King's Council touching the setting of the Prisoners at liberty The Cardinal who was against the former resolution with reflection to what did punctually happen would have still detained the Prisoners and by removing the King and Court from Paris would have done that which necessity forc'd them to do afterwards But the same reasons which made against the first resolution were those which made the second the harder For it was impossible to force obedience from so numerous a people without an Army They therefore resolved to let the Prisoners loose and the King's Letters together with his Order were sent to the Parliament in the Gallery at the Palace-Royal and given to those that were next akin to the Prisoners and the King's Coach was sent to bring them back to Paris The Parliament returned thanks to the Regent for her clemency and every one return'd home well pleased telling in the streets that the King's Coaches were already sent to bring back Brousel whom they â—hould suddenly see safe and free He was so fortunate in this his misfortune that in the present Commotions of Paris mention was onely made of him President Blammenil never being named Yet for all this the rumours ceased not but both sides continued to have fears and jealousies The people being guilty and contumatious expected to be punished and the Court feared the peoples insolency the Inhabitants continued therefore their Guards and Barricadoes and the Court their Guards but with such inconveniency to the Souldiers as they could not get Bread for money from the Bakers who assisted in the sedition Friday-night being past over in Arms the next morning Brousel appeared in the King's Coach and as he past through the Gate St. Honoré and through the streets which led to the new Bridge and to Nostredame he was received with much joy and acclamations by the people who flock'd from all places to see whether it were he or no for he appeared like another Messias and the people cried out Viva le roy viva Brousel The Counsellour Blanmenil came the same night from the Castle of St. Vincent but with much less acclamations Thus the Tumults being appeased and the Parliament knowing how prejudicial the Barricadoes were to the commerce of the City which were not yet demolish'd though the King had commanded it ordered it to be done after Dinner During all these Tumults the Duke of Orleans sided with the Court keeping good correspondency by means of the Abbot Rivere who was his favorite with the King's Officers who for his Highness sake used the like respect towards the Abbot and as had been observed in Cardinal Richelieu's time whereby the Abbot got to be worth 40000 crowns a year in Ecclesiastical Livings and aspired at the Cardinals Cap. But forasmuch as people having once broke the Reins of Obedience are hardly brought within the limits of Duty The seditious Ring-leaders knowing that the Cardinal was the chief Obstacle between them and their desires spoke freely against him accusing him of many failings in his managing of Affairs to discredit him with the Vulgar hoping by his depression to see way made for compassing their desires Yet they fearing that the Regent being exasperated at their licentious proceedings would hinder their meetings agreed secretly to continue their Assemblies notwithstanding any opposition that should be made And to the end that the Court-party might not blame the Parliament for arrogating an unlawful Authority and contrary to Law they would ask her Majesties permission To which purpose they sent Monsieur Fouket Procurator-general who was of a ready wit and sound judgment to her The Queen wrought upon by necessity and not being able to do otherwise gave way to their sitting for fifteen days more wherein nothing being likely to succeed but what would be very prejudicial to her Administration she went on Saturday the 12th of September together with the King and the whole Court under pretence of taking the Air to Ruel three leagues from Paris upon the way to St. Germains which did much trouble those of the contrary party not onely out of fear of what they might thereby expect but for that the Cardinal was now out of their hands and that he might still grow in more favour Many of the people set on by those who begun to take upon them the name of Frondeurs or Slingers met presently about the Palace and in a threatning manner solicited the Parliament
Province nor Governour of Libourn So their Request was frustrated The first President said That an Order might appease the disorder and that time would advise what was best to be done next The Order was resolved upon but the difficulty lay in who should carry it Some of the boldest Counsellours said That they themselves would go with it but they were told They might be detained Wherefore they all concluded that Argenson should tarry in the Castle but that he should send his Son who because he could not safely pass through that crowd of people Marquiss Chamberet General of the Troops came himself to the Castle-gate to guard him to a Bark which was prepared for him And when this was resolved the Father was no longer suffered to speak in private with his Son so as all he could whisper unto him as he embraced him at his going away was to wish him not to return to Bourdeaux though by his Letters he was desired to do so When he was come to Libourn the Governour refused to obey Argenson's order wherefore it being to come from the Duke of Espernon the Count went in haste to Agen to dispose the Duke thereunto but he first advertised his Father and the first President of all he did The disorder grew this mean while so great in Bourdeaux and the clamour of the people was such as not expecting answer they resolved to go themselves to demolish those Fortifications Argenson was all this while shut up in the Castle of Ha but he did so well represent to the Deputies of Parliament who went dayly to visit him what injury the City did her self by imprisoning one whom the King had sent to pacifie the Province as at last fearing that the Court might deal in the like manner with their Deputies who were at Court they were advised to give him his liberty He promised them to go forth with to Espernon hoping undoubtedly to obtain his request for the resolution whereof he desired onely three days they promised him not to innovate any thing in that mean while Upon these terms he came forth of the City under the conduct of the aforesaid Chamberet This mean while the Count his Son was gone to the Duke whom he had prepared to free his Father and to give order for the demolition of the Fortifications about Libourn which just as he was ready to do Argenson came himself and what was already resolved of was done so as Argenson was partly minded to return to Bourdeaux to acquaint the Burdelois with this good news But news came the next morning that about 7000 of those factious people were gone out to besiege Libourn which made the Duke alter his resolution and to dream of nothing but upon opposing the fury of the people The Duke embarked his Souldiers at Reole and went himself along with them many Gentlemen flock'd presently to him and without more ado those Forces which did not in all amout to 2000 men quartered within two leagues of Libourn intending to fall upon the Camp of the Burdelois the next day Libourn is about a mile in compass of a square form invironed with Walls and antient Towers without any Platforms seated upon an Angle made by the rivers Durdone and Isel which meet at one side of the Town towards Fronsack the Campaguia is plain and plough'd up The Burdelois had not yet time to intrench themselves nor was there any order in their Camp The General Chamberet was old not much verst in leading any Foot and much less in what belonged to a General His people were undisciplined On the contrary the King's men though they were far short in number yet were all expert Souldiers conducted by Warlike Officers whereof the Count de Marin was the first Camp-Mareshal all the rest who accompanied Espernon were such as had for the most part been in the War The posture of the besieging Camp being discovered by petty parties of Horse small Skirmishes hapned which grew greater afterwards on the Dukes side Count Serres with Crequy's Gavalry and Count Marin with the Foot of the Guienne Brigadoes fell furiously on the Enemies Quarters who did so ill defend themselves as they were immediately routed All sought how to save themselves and so great was the astonishment as many of them perish'd in the Water as they strove to save themselves by Swimming The Kings men made what havock they pleased whilst they could follow the Fugitives Marquiss Chamberet was be alone who with some other of his friends behaved himself as a man of Honour but he was slain as was likewise Monsieur d' Andre Serjeant-Major of the Army Some of the Councellors of Parliament were taken Prisoners The number of the dead was about 2000 all the Baggage Cannon and two Frigats were lost Monsieur Martinet Governour of the Town sallied forth at the same time with most of the Garrison and killed many of the Enemy The Bourdelois had above 7000 men and all the Bells of the neighbouring Villages rung out to call in men to their assistance who came from all parts Espernon was very proud of this action he entred Libourn and lay therein quartering his men in the neighbouring Villages Count Argenson tarried in the upper Country to expect the issue of this action which when he knew he went to the Duke to advise of what was to be done but he found him so exasperated against the Bourdelois as it was impossible to bring him to any moderate resolution He dream'd of nothing but of chastising the Bourdelois and thought the Court would have sent him Forces to that purpose he pass'd over the River and advanced to Castres and accompanied by the same Gentry that had served him at Libourn hasted towards Bourdeaux The mean while the Arch-Bishop with the Deputies of the Commons who had kept to the King's service entred into Treaty that the Duke might besure to be welcome to the Citizens if he would come into the City The Parliament would have no part herein but declared they would never have to do with their Enemy Espernon yet it was thought that if once the people were satisfied means would be found to appease the Parliament the hope whereof made him comply with the City's offer The Duke advanced with his Army to Graves two Leagues from Bourdeaux the Arch-Bishop and Deputies came to meet him and acquainted him with the reasons which made the Citizens and People go out against Libourn and desired him to do what was sitting and not to be the occasion of such ruines as civil Discord brings with it The Duke replied That Subjects could have no reason to disobey their Soveraign's Decrees That they should treat according to their duty dismiss their Souldiers demolish Fortifications disarm their Vessels and be content to live quietly as before The Deputies answered That the City would obey and that they desired him to enter the City Which the Duke said he would if they would disarm their Men and beat down
they obtained from him in these words We do consent and approve that the Nobility do Assemble to give in their grievances in writing so asthey put them into our hands and that they comprehend not any thing therein which is not conformable to the orders and decrees of the States General and that when they shall have received satisfaction in their grievances they dissolve when we shall bid them Vpon these conditions we promise them our protection This was written and subscribed on the second of February 1651. They then sent to the Prince of Conde and to the other Princes to congratulate their liberty and Marquess Lordis President of the Nobility made an Encomiastical Oration to the Prince the act of Union was subscribed on the 21 th of February as it had been drawn up seventeen days before by all the Nobility of the Assembly except the elder Marquess Vieville who was won over to the Court upon hope of being made superintendant of the Finances The Princes were well satisfied with the Assemblies complement they then dispatched away Letters through all the Provinces to exhort all other Gentlemen to enter into their Union and continued the Assembly that they might advance their designs Count Fiesco did very much labour the Convocation of the States General as the only means to come by the wisht for general peace strove to keep the Clergy firm to their first intentions and accordingly Archbishop Ambrune and Bishop Cominges spoke boldly for this Convocation using examples and places of Scripture to draw all men to the same opinion In this interim the Parliament which did not like the Convocation of the States General as well for fear left their Authority might thereby be moderated and that the Sale of places might peradventure be thereby suppressed and confer'd upon better deserving men as also out of the innate jealousie which is commonly found between Parliaments and States the latter pretending to be superior in Authority and the other did maintaining that States can resolve nothing unless it be by them verified notwithstanding met And here Monsieur de Coqueley brought a request presented by the Procurator General wherein he blamed the Assembly of the Nobility for being met without the King's Authority and insisted upon the inhibiting thereof but whilst they were deliberating hereupon and that the first President moved that the first Authors thereof should be punished reading the Letters sent by the Assembly to the several Provinces wherein the Duke of Orleans was concerned by whose permission the Assembly met that Duke and the Prince of Conde were intreated to come to the Parliament to deliberate upon this weighty affair for the Assembly began to be in great vogue in the Provinces and there was danger that by continuing the Assembly new disorders might arise This mean while the Queen by agreement with the Duke of Orleans and the Prince of Conde sent on the 16 th of March to the Marishal de L' Hospitalle to inform the aforesaid meeting that it should break up and that as for their desire of having the States General called they should have it granted to meet on the first of October next at Tours The same was confirmed by the Duke of Orleans and the Captain of his Guard past his word that what had been said by the Marishal de L' Hospitalle in the name of the King and Queen should be punctually perform'd The like did the Cavaliere de Vieville by order from the Princes of Conde and County none of which were pleased with the calling of the States General as things too prejudicial to Regal Authority and to themselves in particular and therefore they sought by such excuses and promises to carry things on to the end that all might afterwards dissolve into nothing The Duke of Orleans instigated by the Coadjutor who partook of all his secret Councils became Protector of the Assembly of the Nobility the major part whereof depended upon him as being his intimate friends And the Coadjutor being very much troubled that even French Cardinals were by Decree of Parliament debar'd being of the Privy Council whereby he was deprived of his hope of becoming the chief Minister of State and of being Cardinal made the Duke of Orleans incourage the Clergy to joyn with the Nobility and to complain onto the Queen of the unjust proceedings of Parliament whereat the Court was not at all displeased seeing her adversaries at variance within themselves This Assembly of the Nobility was introduced when the King's Authority began to totter by reason of the hatred conceived against the Cardinal and it was begun by certain Bishops who were discontented at the Court proceedings and by certain Nobles who were not therewith well pleased only to make a noise and to make themselves of some consideration at first these Assemblies were held but by a few and in private houses The chief Authors of those of the Clergy were the Archbishop of Sens Brother to Marquess Termer the Bishops of Orleans Haghen and the old Bishop of Albi who were all three of the house of Bene and come to France from Florence the Bishop of Cominges and others the Marquess of Lourdis and of Vieville the Counts of Betumirs Fiesco Montresore Vrse Fourilles Montignack and others who were all without any charge and but little considered at Court they took their pretence from some ill usage of the Nobility in the Country of Vexin by the King's Officers about a suit touching some counterbar'd Salt brought in by the Soldiers and hid amongst their baggage in the March which the Army made towards the Frontiers some of them came to Paris to complain thereof and finding men displeased at the imprisonment of the Princes and laying hold of that pretence that Mazarine had told the Queen in full Council that the Nobility of France hated the King and that the Parliament would do as that of England had done they bethought themselves of calling the Assemblies by the Assent and Authority of the Duke of Orleans who was not altogether content with the Court. So as nothing but novelty was sought after whereby to win credit and get some Office or place in the King's Council The same whereof being spread over the whole Kingdom so numerous was the concourse of Prelates and of Cavaliers as they became formidable not only to the Court and Parliament but even to the Princes who had first protected the Assembly for they thought that the States General would moderate their power by taking away their Governments and places and that peradventure they would take the boldness of England for when the third Estate should concur and the States General should be met the Arbitrement of affairs would almost depend upon these Afterwards private houses proving too little for these Assemblies they were adjourned to the Covent of St. Francis and St. Augustine where in the great Halls thereof affairs were disposed of in good order But this being done without the King's
the one of these two Provinces lay towards Spain and England the other seated amidst the Richest and most noble Provinces of France confining upon Flanders and not far from Germany that it was not to be imagined the first should be able to subsist by the backing of Spain and England because it was not to be believed that the Prince of Conde who by blood was so interessed in the Crown would be so foolish as to dismember the Kingdom of so noble a Province to throw it into the hands of the Spaniards who were natural Enemies to France or of the English who were proud foes nor were things so easily done as designed that it was not time for Spain to ingage in new enterprizes and that all the aid was in considerable which could come from England which was not sure to establish her new state by her own Forces much less to send them abroad to purchase new Enemies that reason of State might require that the power of France might be divided and weakned but that the English could not desire that by the lessning of this the power of Spain should be increased which as being apter to raise Naval Fleets ought consequently to be by them more feared that on the contrary Burgundy the Prince of Conde's Government confining upon Germany and joyning upon Flanders which is the Magazine of the Arms of the Spanish Monarchy would be more apt to foment the Male-contents in Paris when that City as there was now great likelihood should declare for their party And that the Princes passing over the Loire to Carita and joyning with Berry the Government of the same Prince and from thence with Poictou Limosin and Anjou all which Provinces were held by his friends and afterwards with Guienne it was to be feared that the Kingdom being cut through the very midst by such a knot the said Princes might not only be able to maintain themselves in Guienne but make good their party in Paris by the assistance of Neighboring Burgundy and by the Forces of Flanders and Spain reduce the King's Dignity to an inevitable precipice it being insidiated by so many seditious male-contents who by such an opportunity might compass their pernitious Machinations That therefore his opinion was that this change might be permitted and that to moderate the great opinion which the Gascoigns have of Conde they should be suffered to see him for that men are apt to worship a great Warrier more when they hear of his prowess in War than when betaking himself to his quiet he falls into those licentious courses as are usual to the military profession and oftentimes those Flowers which are most pleasing to the eye do most nauseate the Nose And the mean while the King's power breaking out in his Majority would like the Sun dissipate those clouds which do darken the luster of this Kingdom and obfuscate the splendor which other Planets exhal'd from thence and the Crown will re-assume that happy motion which hath hitherto accompanied it Wrought upon by these reasons all of them did unanimously concur to the permutation of these two Governments the which being obtained by the Prince made him also pretend to change Champagnia but the Government of Guienne not appearing so prejudicial for the aforesaid reasons as that of Provence it would not be listned to The Cardinal without whose allowance this change was made blamed the resolution weighing that if it made not much for the Prince his interest he would not have pursued it so hotly writ that he thought it would prove too prejudicial unless it were granted him for some more secret and more important respects and for what concern'd Provence he exaggerated much against them who would so much as hearken to it and wish'd the Queen and Council to have a care of it and not to place so much power in the Prince of Conde for that the more power was given to him the more was the King's Authority lesned It had been much better for the Prince to have taken upon him the supream command of the Army as well for the Grandezza of the Kingdom as for his own glory and Reputation but he did not value it as well in respect of what hath already been touched upon as that he did not too much trust the Queen who was jealous of all his ways and therefore considering that putting himself into an Army composed of Veteran Soldiers who were all faithful to the King who reverenced nothing but his Majesties orders he imagined that he could have no other obedience from them but what did merely concern the service of France wherefore he refused that command which the Queen confer'd upon Marishal de Auniont This Army being provided of Officers who did all of them depend upon the Court was considerable both for number and valour but did not much that Summer for want of monies which was occasioned by the Kingdoms disorders lying only upon the Frontiers of Flanders as shall be said hereafter Whereat the Parliament being moved whose designs were to win upon the peoples affection seeming to be their defenders decreed on the 19 th of Iune that the order made before for remedying the unruliness of the Militia should be put in execution and nominated some Commissioners to that purpose who were to go whither they listed but all in vain for they wanted power to make themselves be obeyd the Soldiers making themselves merry with all their resolves which was not unpleasing to the Court whose concernments were Govern'd according to advice given ever and anon by the Cardinal who though he were at Brules in Germany was informed of all that was done at Court according to which the Councils were there regulated and the King did continually assure him by his Letters that he would by all means have him near his person though it should be with hazard of his Crown yet great secrecy was used in this correspondency the Court being at Paris for fear of being again beset with the City Guards if it should be known Amongst these irresolutions of the King's Council the Cardinal's friends sought to win over the Prince of Conde industriously imploying those therein who were known able to promote so slippery a business The Princess Palatine was desired to interpose her self in this accommodation but she being unwilling to break her word given to the Dutchess Chevereux touching the Marriage and to the Coadjutor touching his being Cardinal declared that she would be ready to do any thing that would not clash upon these two points by retracting from whence she might be taxed with breach of promise but the affairs in the treaty of Guienne altering upon the breach of Madamoselle Chevereux marriage opinions also altered and hence began all things to change The Princess Palatine did notwithstanding say by consent of the Dutchess of Longueville that if the Queen would be gracious to the Prince she would quit the Union whereunto she was now annext and would cordially joyn
with the King and her Majesties interest and if occasion should require declare her self against the Frondeurs The Princesses entred into the treaty the Queen seemed ready to give them all reasonable satisfaction the Prince inclined to agreement but some of his friends and particularly Chavignie whispering in his ear that he ought not to forego his old friends for new ones that the Court was full of subtilty whereby he might be sure at last to be deluded and he listning more to bad than to good Counsel he would not be fed with bare hope nor confide in the Court So as not being able by these means to reduce him they tackt about and resolved totally to ruine him for he being supprest little care was to be had of the rest and to effect their intent they resolved to secure themselves of all the Provinces of the Kingdom And the Duke of Longueville who was Governour of Normandy and Brother in Law to the Prince was sought to be won over by a secret treaty which was effected by friends on both sides and whereunto Longueville listned not for that he had any natural good inclinations but because he was not well pleased with Conde who dealt disdainfully with him and fomented his Wife in Domestick differences that were between them he ingaged his word that he never would recede from what was agreed on with the Court no not for any whatsoever offer might be made him of bettering his condition All the Officers of the Flanders Army were also treated with who took a new Oath to serve his Majesty against all his Enemies within or out of the Kingdom and declared that they did depend only upon the King They summon'd in all the Troops which served under the name of the Prince to appear at a general Muster and that they might be disposed of in several parts they thought either to detain their pay or to give them inconvenient quarters or if need were to disarm them but the Prince suspecting this wrought so as that they drew up towards Burgundy Champagnia and the Frontiers of Picardy and that they should never come within three days march of the King's Army They afterward indeavoured to draw over from the faction of the Frondeurs as many of the Parliament or of the chief Citizens as they could among which President Novion was one deceiv'd in his hopes of being the Director of the Duke of Orlean's Council Monsieur le Feure Provost of the Merchants and finally all means were used to draw over the Princess Palatine who afterwards grew a great confident of the Queen and Cardinal by reason of her being but badly requited by Conde's Family after her so much partiality and good service done to Conde and they also won over the Dutchess of Chevereux and the Coadjutor promising to call the Marquess of Chasteauneuf to the Privy Council again and to nominate the Coadjutor to be Cardinal when the King should be of age the joyning together of the two last was of great importance in this business out of their desire to revenge themselves of the Prince and as being partakers of the Duke of Orleans his most secret Council all this was managed by the Court with their accustomed cunning for the most wary were of opinion that the Queen could not confide neither in Chevereux nor in the Coadjutor in whom she was forc'd notwithstanding to seem to trust and to believe things which were unlikely and though it was thought that by Chasteauneuf's return to Council Chevereux might pretend to have a share in the Government of the Kingdom and that the Coadjutor by being Cardinal might one day prove Favourite even they allured by such hopes labour'd to keep in favour with their Majesties and to seem desirous of Mazarine's return wherein Chasteauneuf being of all others most vigilant fearing Conde's faction and considering that the Cardinal would at last overcome all difficulties since it was the King and Queens will having with great wonder hard the question asked by Priolo in Conde's name whether or no he would approve of the Cardinals return he was desirous to sound the bottom of the business wherefore he sent his confident Berret to Brules with a Letter of credence and with exhibition to imploy all his power in helping his return when the Cardinal saw the Letter he very warily made Berret write down the articles of instruction at the foot of the Letter and that he might the better discover truth treat the more securely and know the true meaning of the Queen he sent Abbot Vndedey to Paris incognito in whom he trusted much who coming thither with much danger of losing his life he behaved himself so well as he agreed with Chasteauneuf that he should be made chief Minister of State when the King should be of years he assured the first President that he should have the Seals restored to him and Marquess Vieville that he should be made superintendent of the Finances Vndedey not having a Pasport from the Spaniards was in his journy to Paris stopt by the Garrison of Charlemont but was released at thirteen days end for they considered that it made not for them to detain one who by his negotiation might renew jealousies and afford new pretences to the Male-contents he being imploy'd to revive the Cardinals Party whose subsistance was judged necessary by the Spaniards thereby to make Conde joyn more firmly with them and holding that this was the only means to widen the wounds of France The Princes were advertised of his detention and of his being set free and they laid snares for him by the way but he fearing it turned about by Mesieres and past in disguise through the Princes Troops and got safe to Paris whereat the Queen was very glad Vndedey staid Eleven days not being discovered by whatsoever the Princes could do he negotiated all the business that he was come about which was all put off till the King should be of years but fearing afterwards to be found he went to Peroun and staid there incognito till the King was of years and till the Prince retired from Court after which being recalled by the Queen he returned to Paris to finish what he had begun The Parliament knowing that it was an unjust and odious thing to make a man guilty without naming his fault that they might the better justifie their proceedings against the Cardinal sent two Counsellors of the Chamber into Normandy and Picardy and to all places through which he past to inform themselves diligently of all his comportments in order whereunto Cantarini an Italian Bancker was imprisoned and had all his Writings taken from him hoping to find notes of the sums of Money which he was said to have conveyed into Italy and Germany and Brousell was appointed to make this inquisition who was his chiefest Enemy but after having spent much time in making diligent search he returned without any thing worthy the Assemblies knowledg Nothing was found in Canterini's writings
with 200 in the Citadel those of the Town being at all times to be re-inforced by the Enemy wherefore if her Majesty would send him 2000 men he would do his utmost to expell them he moreover witnessed that he did not think it fit that the Princes or Dukes Forces which were design'd for the Army of Picardy should be commanded by the Marishal Ferte Senetre who being too true to the Cardinal had guided him in his journey and received him into his Towns after the Decrees of Parliament made against him that moreover he had desired him as Lieutenant General of the Kingdom to send some that depended upon him to command them promising that hē would willingly obey him and that to that purpose he had named Monsieur de Vallon for that imployment who being ready to go he received orders to the contrary whereby the said Forces were willed to tarry there and expect Monsieur de Vallon who was to command them He declared also that the Iealousies which were taken were not causless as he had formerly declared in Parliament knowing that something had been done to his prejudice and that after having brought him to the Palace where he was not too well received he had not desired him to return any more thither he also affirmed that otherwise he did not believe that the Prince had at any time had any ill intention against the King's service or the good of the Commonwealth The Prince having obtained this writing thought he had gotten all he could desire from the Duke of Orleans and doubtless this Declaration though a weak one made for him but the Duke being troubled that he had so easily granted this writing acquainted the Queen therewith saying that he had protested to Conde that he would please him only that one time and that for the future he would never do so again nor that he did any ways intend to nourish civil dissentions to the King's prejudice yet this was ill taken at Court though covertly not to increase ill will The Parliament meeting afterwards and the King's Declaration being read the aforesaid Declaration was read by a Secretary of the said Dukes containing Conde's justification which being read the Prince added many other things tending to his own discharge and added that all proceeded from the actions of his Enemies whose designs were known to be pernitious to the State alledging for example the violent proposal made by the Coadjutor the preceeding winter in L' Hostelle d' Orleans to go and take the Seal by force from the first President and go from thence to the Court. The Coadjutor rising up at these words said boldly that what he had said was altered that he could justifie all his actions and Counsels and that he would never cry peccavi for any thing he had ever spoken High and bitter speeches past on both sides The Counsellors began to speak their opinions not being displeas'd with the present differences whereby they became Arbitrators and almost judges of the Royal Family many things were said many would have the Queen produce proofs for what she had said against the Prince others that the Duke of Orleans should be intreated to intercede in a business of such importance and to beseech the Queen that she would out of her goodness extinguish this fire in its beginning In fine that all things should be refer'd to her Majesty to whom they sent the writing which was given in by his Highness in excuse of the Prince that she might order all things by her supream Authority as she should think would stand best with justice but the time being short nothing was concluded and the Assembly was adjourned till Monday The Prince went forth followed by many of the meaner sort the Coadjutor did the like being also well accompanied The Sabbath day being spent on both sides in getting Votes the Duke of Orleans had private conference the same day with the Queen but what it was is not known On Monday the Parliament met where the Prince appeared attended by many the Coadjutor did the like accompanied amongst others by the Duke of Brisack by Monsieur Montresore and other Courtiers and with many Citizens who were of his party Armed with Swords and Pistols And the yard great Hall which are by the Parliament house were filled with people of both factions The house being set and Conde being told how the Coadjutor had been attended thither he said he thought it strange there should be any in that Assembly who should vye with him for Magnificency and as it were contend in the Streets with a Prince of the Blood and that he believed the Parliament would take order with such audaciousness The Coadjutor finding himself concern'd herein said that he wondred much at such complaints all men knowing what respect and value was to be put upon a Prince of his condition and merit and that if he were aimed at therein he profest all honour and respect unto him But that obedience was due to none but the King who left the way open for all men To this the Prince answered with some Acrimony and as the Coadjutor was ready to reply a murmuring arose in the house which silenced them both Many Counsellors said this was not a way of Parliamentary proceeding the rather for that the Palace yard was full of armed men who were assembled there little to the safety of the Counsellors and less to the freedome of their suffrages The first President seconding this said unto the Prince that he being the most eminent person was to give the first example wherefore he desired him to dismiss his retinue and then turning to the Coadjutor said as much alledging what inconvenience might else insue The Prince gave order to the Duke of Rochefaucolt to dismiss those who were come along with him the Coadjutor said he would go do the like but in a bold and scornful manner in somuch as walking faster then Rochefaucolt he got thither before him and as he walked Per la Perquet or in the ante-Chamber he came into the Hall at whose appearance all his party drew their Swords and those belonging to the Prince did the like The Duke thinking that the Coadjutor who was in the midst of the Prince his people would hardly escape thought how to make use of the present opportunity but the Coadjutor being aware of the danger return'd presently to the Parquet or Ante-Chamber Rochefaucolt who stood at the gate and saw him coming shut his head between the two leaves of the gate door where he held him fast affording time to those of the Princes party to have kild him if they had would for Rochefaucolt would not kill him himself least Montresore and others of the Coadjutors party might have drawn their Swords wherefore he left it to the Prince his followers amongst which were the Count of Duraz and Signan Marquess Rogefer Monsieur de Picaces and others whilst the Coadjutor was in this condition likelier to dye
the other Monastery de la perellas who were made to believe that this was done in expectation of some French Merchants who were to pass over the neighbouring Mountains with rich Merchandise this being agreed upon the Spaniard went on the 7 th of Iuly to the places appointed and were recruited by some Forces brought by Don Pietro de Lara they placed themselves so as that the Horse might withstand those who should first advance They were not above Four hundred they marched very silently and got into the Monastery of St. Dominico The French Garrison before they open the Gates use not only to look about all the places about the Town but to visit the neighbouring Covents particularly The Serjeant Major hid himself and his Foot in a certain place which the French had never observed and placed his Horse in a place apart called Valfagona When day appeared the accustomed Guards went out to search the Covent the Governour came to the Gate himself to wish the Souldiers to be vigilant and to keep all Country people out Salamanque sent a Frier who was held partial to the French to acquaint his confederates in the Town and agreed with another that whilst the one should enter by the first Portcullis the other should possess the second this being done the Serjeant Major came forth with his men and cutting the Rafters breaking down the Gates got with his best men at last into the City and after a small skirmish wherein few of either side perished he forced Faro the Governour to retreat with his Garrison into St. Marie's Church where he capitulated to surrender the Town the same day upon honourable conditions which were granted him by the Governour of Lerida who upon the first advertisement went thither himself in person The Spaniards having gotten Bellaguer thus turned presently upon the Castle of Castellon de Farfana and from thence to Camerassa both which not being provided for defence received the first offers which were made by Pietro Valenzuela and yielded obedience to the Spaniards THE HISTORY OF FRANCE The EIGHTH BOOK The CONTENTS The Prince of Conde leaves the Army and goes to Paris The Parliament sends again to the King to discard the Cardinal The Coadjutor Conde is made Cardinal Graveling is besieged and taken by the Spaniards Mardike is forsaken by the French The King of France goes from Guien to Melune and from thence to S. Germans The Army of the Princes fortifie themselves in Estampes S. Martino is taken Divers other incounters Orleans together with Conde send to Court to negotiate Peace Duke Charles of Lorrain enters France He makes the Kings Men raise the siege of Estampes They incampe near S. Clou. New troubles in Burdeaux The beginning of the Olmira Rumors in Provence The King goes to S. Dennis The Prince of Conde indeavors to bring his Army to Charrenton He is followed by Turenne He gets into S. Antoine where he is assaulted and a bloody business follows By Madamoiseles means the Gates of Paris are opened and the Princes with their Men are received in New Sedition The Palace of the Communalty is fired with much confusion and disorder not having effected what the Princes desired Conde solicites the Spaniards in Flanders to assist him The King goes to Pontois and carries the Parliament thither Most of the Counsellors refuse to go stay in Paris and continue the Assemblies The Cardinal goes from Pontois and withdraws out of the Kingdom The Parliament declares the Duke of Orleans Lieutenant General of the Crown and set 50000 Crowns upon the Cardinals head A Duel between Beaufort and Nemeurs wherein Nemeurs is slain A general Amnesty published by the King of France The Duke of Lorrain Prince of Witenberg and Spanish Army in Succor of the Princes they besiege Marishal Turenne in Villanova Montrond Surrendered Harcourt retreats to Brisack The Miseries of War Candalle commands the Forces in Guienne The King writes to the Duke of Orleans Barcellona besieged and lost WHilest Arms were thus managed in the Field Counsels were frequently held by both parties what resolution to put on The Malecontents being still more desirous how to establish themselves by lessning the Kings authority All agreed that the Cardinal was the ruine of the Kingdom All Paris was full of Libels and Satyrical Verses of fabulous Histories and politick Discourses Which casting durt upon Mazarine and the State Ministers redounded to the dishonor of their Royal Majesties and put bad impressions into the common people who were ignorant of the Arcana Regum All the streets sounded of nothing but of the Praises of the Princes and of the Archduke who were celebrated both in prose and verse by infinite Writers stiling them Liberators of the oppressed People And many Parish Priests did in their Pulpits take no less liberty railing upon the present Government and filling the Peoples ears with sinister impressions with no less blame to the Superiors who tolerated it then to the Authors thereof The Parliament desiring nothing more then the Cardinals ruine sent President Nesmond with Five Counsellors and other Deputies of the City to Sully where the King was to represent how necessary it was to put the Cardinal from his Council according as his Majesty had formerly promised Wherein Nesmond spoke with no less eloquence then freedom upon the Declarations made by the King and by the Parliament and did much complain that they had been so delusively broken But the Court was not at all moved with this for the others might well barke but they could not bite The Coadjutor in the interim continued in making a third party by staving the Duke of Orleans from off Conde's enterprise with whom he seemed desirous to be Friends and did really negotiate it But this was rather to perswade the Court to concur in his being made Cardinal which he thought the Court did cunningly prolong than out of a desire to reconcile himself to the Prince Who finding how necessary it was to make himself sure of the Duke of Orleans and to get the City declare for him as also to receive applause for the happy success at Blenau and to justifie himself in Parliament touching the Declaration made against him by the King and which the Parliament had justified but suspended the effects for a while came to Paris where he was received with general applause being met by the Duke of Orleans and an infinite of people The next day he came into the Assemblies indeavoring to justifie himself These Reasons brought him thither but could not keep him there but for a while for the Army needed his presence Count Chavigny who as it was reported had made his peace with the Cardinal by the mediation of Monsieur Faber and who did intend to do so with the Prince likewise Possest the Prince with new jealousies of the Coadjutor and of Chasteauneus alledging the example of the Duke of Orleans in Count Soisons affairs who had recourse to the King for favor
Kingdom That Marcouse and Vaubecourt should be given for Hostages on the Kings behalf and Count Linville and the General of the Artillery on the Dukes with promise that no Hostility should be committed in his march the treaty was thus stipulated by Turenne much to his glory which being concluded in the face of both Armies the Lorrainers began presently to march towards Bria Whilst things went thus in these parts the Parliament who now that Lorrain was come thought they had hit the nail on the head raising their pretensions still higher sent President Nesmond again to the Court to insist upon sending the Cardinal away the Commissioners being come to Melune made the Parliaments desire known adding that it was a small business for a King to deprive himself of a Servant whereby he was to regain the obedience of so many who had withdrawn themselves from it only out of that respect The King returned his answer in writing That having often heard the Remonstrances made by his Parliament wherein they still asserted their intentions to maintain regal Authority and that they would always contribute their chiefest power to the advantage of his service and that finding the wound did now begin to Gangrene without speedy remedy he desired that their Commissioners might meet with his Privy Council to the end that they might joyntly find some remedy for the threatning mischief and to keep his people from the apparent ruine whereinto they were ready to fall through the capricious unquietness and ambition of some sew and that his Majesty indeavoured nothing more than how to restore his Kingdom to its former splendor When Nesmond had read this answer he reply'd That the only way to satisfie all was to send away the Cardinal The King thus interrupted him and with a serious aspect said You have heard my pleasure no more words The Commissioners returned to Paris where they gave an exact account to their Companions of what had past Many were for accepting the propounded Conferences but Brussels with an appearing zeal to the common welfare was firm that there needed no other Conference or negotiation since all was reduced to one sole head which was the sending away the Cardinal who being the sole occasion of all resentments they must stand upon it for this being had all controversies would be ended And the more averse he found the King to part with him the more he prest it not for that he cared much for it but that knowing how difficult a business it would be he might nourish the diffidences and maintain discord For it was apparent that if the Parliament had believed that the King would have parted with the Cardinal and with that re-unite the Princes to his service he would never have pretended thereunto but would have underhand indeavoured his tarrying for it did not make for him that the Kings Authority should be the more fortified by the joyning of the Princes with his Majesty and that consequently the pretences of the Parliament should languish Brussels opinion being adhered unto it was decreed that the Commissioners without any delay should return again to the King and tell his Majesty that they had nothing to add nor to propose but the effectual dismissing of the Cardinal in conformity to the decrees and Declarations made by his Majesty and to the protestation made by the Princes who were ready to lay down Arms as soon as the Cardinal should be gon out of the Kingdom Letters written from the Queen of Sweeden to the Parliament were given to the Commissioners to be delivered to the King the content whereof was her offering her self to interpose as a friend and confederate to the Crown of France in agreeing all parties The Commissioners came to Melune the 12 th of Iune and had Audience two days after they represented the desolation of the State by the Cardinals return which they said was the only cause of all the disturbances of the Kingdom The business was referred to the Council of State and the answers examined the Cardinal renued his many former desires that he might be dismist saying it was not fit that the peace of the Kingdom should be confounded merely for him This the King denyed saying that he was master and was to be served by whom he pleased and that none but God could prescribe laws to him The next Sunday the Commissioners had Audience again wherein the King gave them a writing saying that thereby they should know his pleasure Monsieur Vrilliere read it and gave it to President Nesmond wherewith he went to Paris the contents of the Letter were these That the King did very much wonder seeing there were so many wise and well advised Subjects in the Parliament that they should not know the desire of dismissing the Cardinal was but a specious and nice pretence since the true cause of all the troubles appeared to be the interest and ambition of those who had took up Arms and waged War when the Cardinal was in Germany dismist from the Court and Government which made it clearly appear that the maladies of a State are not cured whilst pretences are stood upon the roots whereof produce as many mischiefs as by those pretences are desired to be cut off so there was no remedy that would do good but to pluck up the chiefest and deepest evil by the Root That if his Majesty should permit the Cardinal to withdraw himself into some forreign imployment with due respect to his honour how should he be secured that the Male-contents would be quieted since his departure in the beginning of the last year had rather augmented than moderated the troubles so as it was not to be hoped it should fall out otherwise when he should be gone again unless the cause which produced the effect were presently taken away That his Majesty did desire speedy and permanent quiet to his Subjects that they might not fall into the former inconveniences the rather for that he knew well that at the same time when the Princes declared they were ready to lay down Arms if the Cardinal were sent away they provided for the contrary by strengthning their party with Forreigners and by seducing other of his Majesties Subjects from their obedience that what the Duke of Orleans had said some days before to the Commonalty of Paris touching his having no power over the Duke of Lorrains men which he had boasted to have brought was not like to that which he had affirmed in Parliament that the treaty made with the Spaniards by the Prince of Conde mentioned not laying down of Arms if the Cardinal were sent away nor indeed could it be spoken of since he was in Germany when it was made That therefore the Princes were to give real and positive security for performing what they promised wherefore he desired to know whether they renounced all leagues and associations made with Forreigners and all particular treaties had and made with his Majesties Subjects against his Royal service
and went to the Duke his Father having past his word that he would forget what was past The King tarried at Pontoise from the 17 th of Iuly till the 19 th of August in which time great sickness grew there by reason of the straitness of the Town and the scarcity of all things Many dyed amongst which the Duke of Bullions death was lamented and this malignant influence dilated it self even unto Paris where a great many men of all sorts dyed in a few days the Duke of Vallois the only Son to the Duke of Orleans being about two years old dyed also this September to the great grief of his Father and Mother by his death Conde returned to be the first Prince of the blood as he was before the other was born for the Sons nor Brothers of the King are not called Princes of the blood but Sons of France Whilst affairs went thus in these parts Count Harcourt keeping still with his Army in Guienne to observe what the Princes Forces did went to besiege Villaneus upon the River Lot which was fortified only with old Wals and Towers but well garrison'd under Marquess Theubon wherefore he was forced to raise his siege after two months attempt The Kings men had ill fortune also in Flanders for want growing hourly greater in Dunkirk the Plague and dysentery grew so violent amonst the Soldiers as above a thousand of them dyed in eleven days and the rest were so weakned by continual watching as the Archduke resolved to approach it with 8000 Foot and 3000 Horse and Ten pieces of Canon there were not above 700 Foot in the City who were fit for service of which 200 of the Inhabitants who wished well to Spain did still keep Guard and the rest defended the Fortifications who were continually in Arms without being misled whereat there was such murmuring as they were thrice ready to revolt had not the Governor by hopes of speedy succor and by his much reverenced Authority detained them The Spaniards fell upon the Counterscarp on the sixth of September upon three sides with a Thousand men on each part the Spaniards and Italians won it and lost it again with some prejudice but being assaulted a second time with fresh men they won it wherefore Monsieur de Estrades finding that his men had given back and that the Enemy began to lodge upon the same Counterscarp fell upon them with 500 Foot and 40 Officers and charged them so furiously as after a bitter and bloody bickering he recovered the Counterscarp losing Seven Officers and Twenty five Soldiers and he himself was shot with an Harquebuse on the Thigh After this unfortunate but glorious accident followed treachery framed by three Soldiers who were bribed by the Enemy which being discovered cost them their lives and the Governor was commended for discovering and punishing it for six weeks past the Soldiers had but six ounces of Bread the day wherefore Estrades and all the chief of the Garrison thought it fit to yield to necessity and to parly wherein it was concluded on the 12 th of September that if they were not relieved within six days the place should be surrendered that in the interim there should be a cessation of Arms and that the besieged should be permitted to send two Captains one to Callis to the Marishal de Aumount and another to the Duke of Vandosme at Diepe to acquaint them with the condition of the place and in what need they stood of speedy succor Rivilliers went to Callis Rouvie to Diepe and they arrived so luckily as Marishal de Aumount began the same day to lade six months Victuals in several Barks and 1500 Foot at Callis to attend the Fleet which was gone from Diepe wherein they were to go to Dunkirk which being block'd up by some few Spanish Vessels it had not been hard to have fought them and to have made way through them But before we speak of the going of the Fleet we must acquaint you with what past in the Seas of Britanny before it went from thence the Duke of Vandosme vvho vvas Lord High Admiral of France vvas gone into that Province and had armed some Frigats about Rochel against Count de Ognons Fleet which was re-inforced with some Ships from Spain which threatned Rochel not a little When he had gathered together Twelve Ships Three Frigats one Gally and some other Vessels in Brest he went from thence on the 19 th of Iuly and coasting along Eiavet and other places some other Ships and Gallies joyned with him so as being about Twenty Ships and Frigates Four Gallies and Twelve fire Boats he went towards Olone and from thence to the Strand of Pallisse over-against the Fort Preda where Monsieur Souches Commander of the Isle of Rhe furnished him with some French Foot The Spanish Fleet consisted of Seventeen Frigates commanded by Admiral Antonio Misnell and by Antonio Dies who being drown'd between Blavet and Grois Cornelius Meigne succeeded him to this Fleet was joyn'd Twenty five Vessels and five fire Ships when news came of the Arrival of the French on the Ninth of August two hours after Sunrising they were at a competent distance to begin battle with their Canon which roared on all sides they advanced warily not to ingage themselves in danger a brisk wind blowing a little before night the Fleets were severed The Nativity a Spanish Ship was burnt and taken Commanded by Antonio Gonsales a Dunkirker a Ship of the Neapolitan Squadron vvas sunk aftervvards Vandosme vvould have done more but vvanting necessary provisions and monies he vvas contented to have driven them avvay sent his Ships into Haven and he landed at Rochel vvent tovvards the Court vvhich vvas then at Campagne vvhither he came on the Fourth of September from vvhence he vvas suddenly sent vvith orders to relieve Dunkirk to vvhich purpose expresses vvere sent into Britanny and the neighbouring Provinces at the nevvs brought by Monsieur Rorur of Dunkirks capitulating the Commanders of the Fleet made that vvays presently hoping to relieve the Tovvn But the Parliament of England at the desire of the Spanish Ambassador in London and the rather for that they liked not that that important Haven so near the Thames mouth should remain in the French mens hands they apply'd themselves to divert their succor vvherefore that Kingdom being strong at Sea by reason of the War declared against the Hollanders vvhen the French Ships appeared before Callis to receive in provisions and necessaries for the relief of Dunkirk assoon as they had cast Anchor Blake the English General fell upon them vvith many of his Fleet vvith such fury as they prepared rather to fly than fight though in vain for unless it vvere Three Ships vvhich held out at Sea and got into Flushing all the rest were taken but that the Parliament of England might not appear an open Enemy to France now that they were at War with the Hollanders they sent all the people that were in