A PRODIGIOVS Eruption of Fire, which exhaled in the middest of the Ocean sea, over against the Isle of Saint Michael, one of the Tercera's, and the new Island which it hath made. It tooke beginning the third of Iuly of this present yeare 1638.
BEtwixt the Tercera's Islands, so known to those who saile to the East and West Indies and to Brasile, there is a site of water in the midst of the sea, distant two leagues from the Island of Saint Michael, which the adjoining inhabitants call Ferraria, so abounding with fish, that it is doubtfull whether there bee any place more plentifull in all the seas. In this place nature hath wrought the most portentous case that the ages have seen, it was thus; On the third of the last Iuly, [Page 6] within the bottome of the sea, which in the sayd place is one hundred and fifty fadomes deepe, like the springing of a mine, with a horrible noyse and great horror, a space of earth separated it self, which would take the sowing of halfe a bushell of wheate, with the vehemencie and force of an impetuous fire, against which all the waters of the ocean sea it selfe could make no resistance, casting up to the clouds the water and earth in severed parts, as it were burning torches, and very great stones, some whereof ascending while others descended, and so encountring each other, returned by vertue of the new impulse to fly up more than three pikes high: others dissolved in pieces, did fly as if they had sailed large distances, and the broken pieces beeing handled, dissolved into blacke ashes, and all that circuit of water changing its nature, like withered and dry wood, ministreth matter if not aliment to the fire, which without ceasing doth continue burning. A fatall wonder, which is so much the more, to see that with the multitude of stones which the fire hath cast up, there is composed and formed a new Island, which takes up a league and a half in length, and is threescore fadomes high, and it did continue its augmentation and burning until the tenth day of the sayd Iuly, as appeareth by an assured relation which was sent to his Majesty, whom God protect, and is in the registry of State belonging to Portugall. All the fish which were within more than eight leagues distance round about, died consumed, [Page 7] and made worth nothing; and the sea cast forth upon the shores of the Island of Saint Michael so great a quantity, that it would have filled many of those ships which saile to the East Indies: and lest the aire should bee infected, they made great pits in which they buried them. All the sea boyled for many leagues, the smell of the brimstone was felt by the most remote of those Islands: the smoake and the ashes filled the aire, and hid the light of the Sunne, to the admiration of all the inhabitants of those Islands.
Before this fire there preceded an earthquake, which continued more than eight dayes, perceived in all those seas and Islands, and with a greater noise in that of Saint Michael; so that the inhabitants terrified, confounded and astonished, lest they should perish amidst the ruines of the buildings, fled into the fields, where they remained for some days, confessing, fasting, and making processions of bloud, and other acts of penance as those who feared to to die, either drowned with the Islands themselves, or consumed and burned with another equall fire.
Our Lord God was pleased that the wind should be from the land, for had it beene from sea, it had burned all the townes of the neighbouring Islands, and would have occasioned another cineration like that which hapned in those parts in the year 1630.
There went many persons to sound the depth of that place, and they have found that it hath of depth in the sea more than one hundred and fifty fadoms. [Page 8] Let the Speculative ponder, and the philosopher search out the cause of so portentuous an eff [...]ct, in as much as the Mathematician seekes rects for his judgement, and the Historian knowledges for his discourse.
Madrid the eighth of September, 1638.
With Licence in Madrid.
In the Imprimierie of Francisco Martinez, in the year 1638.
From Basill. A TRVE AND PARTICVLAR RELAtion, of the famous and bloudy battaile, fought the 30 day of Iuly old stile, in this present yeare 1638. neare the Village of Witten-weyer in the County of Brisgaw on the River of Rhyne, how it was first begunne, and how it ended according to Gods good will and pleasure.
AFter that Duke Bernhard of Saxō Weymar had kept his general Randevouze the 27 of Iuly, or 6 of Aug. at Langendentalingen not farre from Fry-burg in the Countie of Brisgaw, and the next day therupō following directed his march towards Kentzingen, and pitched his Campe neare the said City. His Highnes received intelligence by the parties, which he had sent abroad, that the Imperiall and Bavarian Armies with a great number of Wagons, laden with corne, [Page 12] meale, and other victuals, were arrived neare the Cloister of Shutteren, his Highnes broke up again the same evening with his whole Army, & marched the whole night, till unto the dawning of the day to meet them, and on Sunday morning being the 29 of Iuly or 8 of Aug: lighted upon both the Generall Field-marshals, the Duke of Savelly, and Iohn Count of Goetz with all their forces not far from the aforesaid Cloyster of Shutteren neare the Village of Friesenheim, assaulted immediately their Sentinels consisting of commanded Horsemen, tooke prisoners a Lieutenant with eight horsemen, & slew some more of thē, and the rest he pursued to the maine Imperiall Army and by the helpe of certain commāded troops of foot, cōsisting for the most part of French, took two passages, which the Imperiallists had strongly guarded, and slew there about 60 of the Imperial souldiers; wherefore the Imperialists to hinder and to prevent a farther pursuite, thought it convenient & good to fire the aforesaid Village in severall places; both the Field-marshals being certified of the unexpected comming of his Highnesse, Duke Bernhard of Saxon Weymar and his suddaine assault, did beginne to march in good order with their whole Army and Artillery, upon an high and very advantageous hill hard by it, and to play from thence with their Canons upon his Highnesse Forces very fiercely and without ceasing, yet being their Canons plaid too high without any great effect and harme; And that they were [Page 13] answered by his Highnesse Canons divers times, although not so fiercely and so often, yet with more effect; in the meane time the Musquetiers skirmished one against another, insomuc [...] that the same forenoone, on the Imperiall and B [...]varian side, as they themselves confess'd above 120. men were slaine; but on his Highnesse side not ab [...]v [...] 20. killed, and about 30 wounded. And although the French troopes, that were there, seeing they had so good successe in the beginning, were very eager to climbe up the Hill, and to assault the maine Imperiall Campe, yet his Highnesse had discry'd already, that without great danger and losse, nothing could be effected: and therefore found it more convenient in his judgement to betake himselfe into the open field hardby, & to put his men into a right Battaile-array, hoping that the abovesaid Generall Field-marshals, would likewise resolve to come downe upon his Highnesse; being prompted to it by a report and generall rumour of long continuance that Field-marshall Goetz desired much to meet the Duke Bernhard upon such tearmes.
His Ex. wished nothing else but the like occasion: But being both generalls were loth to breake forth out of their advantages in which they lay, and desired not to medle further with his Highnes besides that which had passed with the Cannons and small skirmishes aforementioned, his Highnesse about noone retired somewhat towards Mohlburg, and thereby gave the more occasion to both generalls [Page 14] Feild Marshalls to betake themselves likewise downe from the advantageous hill, upon which they lay. The night following was spent on both sides with alarum, and the next munday following being the 30 of Iuly, the 9 of August: his Highnesse caused the service of God and the sermon of the weeping of Christ over Ierusalem (which the day before by reason of those skirmishes was neglected) orderly to be performed: and whereas in the conclusion of the same sermon strong proofe was produced, how that God Almighty who is a God of long sufferance doth forbeare a long time the despisers and persecutors of his holy word, and that although they be terrible and mighty for a time, yet causeth them at last to bee confounded and overthrowne: his Highnesse hereupon tooke finall resolution, and immediatly thereupon spoke these words to all the Cavalliers that were present, that without further delay he was resolved to fall upon the enemie, with a certaine assurance, that God Almighty would grant them this day a glorious victorie, and immediatly thereupon gave order for the whole Armie to breake up, and assoone as his Highnesse had din'd, immediatly tooke horse, his Highnesse having received certaine intelligence, that both the general Feild-marishalls with all their forces, & provisiō were already marching upwards towards the river of Rhine, and therefore his Highnesse, least they should passe by and attaine to their end (the victualling of the City and Fort of Bryssack) [Page 15] made the more haste to prevent them; and thereupon presently after 12 of the clock at noone near the Village of Wittenweyer (where his Highnesse the last yeare had his sconce and Shipbridge) lighted upon the aforesaid Generalls, yet the said Generalls, having intelligence before of his comming, had made themselves ready in all things and therefore gotten the advantage of the ground to put their Army in battaile-aray, whereas on the other side it fell heavie and troblesome to his Highnesse to march through a great wood and over a small Iland, moates and bridges, which were overgrown with thick hedges, which by the help of certaine 100 men of the Imperiall forces if not totally stopt, yet for a certaine time might much have hindred him, but being his Highnesse found there no opposition, hee put his Artillery and the troopes, which he had got over there, at the end of the aforesaid wood into Battaglia, and kept them close together, till he had brought over all his forces and could give in a right order a full assault: whereupon the shooting with the Cannons was begun on both sides and continued with great eagernesse, insomuch that his Highnesse right wing (which was lead by Generall Major Tupadell) because the Imperiall and Bavarian right wing was selected and consisted of the choicest of their forces, as namely of the currassiers and others of the best Regiments, was beaten back a great way, and forced to retire as farre as the reserve, which was commanded by [Page 16] Colonell Canofsky; and being the same stood yet somewhat farre behind, the Imperialists on their side stood in hope that they had got already a great victory, but that joy lasted not long, because as soone as the aforesaid Generall Major Tupadell had come within reach of the said Colonell Canofsky, they fell on againe withall possible speed upon the aforesaid left wing, and put the same so hard to it, that it did as Generall M [...]jor Tupadell afore was forced to do, to looke for a second.
In the meane time Colonell Rosal who together with the Count of N [...]ssaw and the Baron of Pulbus lead Duke Bernhards left wing, chased the Savellish and Goetzish right wing without any great resistance pell mell into their owne foote forces, and pursued so farre after them, that the Imperiall party had great losse, and immediatly thereupon a part of their foote Forces beganne to betake themselves to flight: In the meane time the rest of the Brigades came very nigh one upon another, and yet the Imperiall Musquetiers would not give fire, till Duke Bernhard of Weymar had drawne certaine small troopes out of his Army, and sent them close up to the Imperiall Musquetiers and caused bullets to be changed one with another, whereupon the maine body of the Army came one upon another, and now this party and then th'other party was assaulted by the horse men, and then seconded againe, in which mixture it came so farre, that at last they did beat the Musquets one [Page 17] about another heads, and the Goetzish attained of Duke Bernhards Artilery 3. peeces shooting a bulled of 12. pound, and foure small field peeces: On the other side Duke Bernhard of Weymar got into his power all the Imperiall and Bavarian Canons, together with all the Bullets and appurtenances, whereupon both sides made use of his enemies Canons, as much as they would, yet with this remarkable inequallty, that the Goetzish being they were not provided with fitting bullets for those 7 peeces of Ordnance which they had obtained, had but small advantage by them, but the Weymarish continually and with a remarkable effect could shoote: Now being it lasted so long, so that those that belonged to the Artillery were quite tired, a part of Duke Bernhards horsemen alighted, and supplyed the office of the tired Constables or Gunners and carryed away the praise, that they have shot extraordinary well: Yet notwithstanding being the Imperiallists had still fresh supply of more Forces, which consisted of old beaten and expert Souldiers, and found in the Weymarish the like, they fought so stoutly on both sides that not one Squ [...] drō, except it was drawn off by force, did leave the field, but did fight so valiantly one with another, that each side for the second time got his enemies ground, in somuch that the victory was doubtfull for five houres together, at last they fought onely by way of Squadrons and Regiments one against another, whereof each of them would not leave [Page 18] the field, till it was beaten out of it by maine force, till at last the Goetzish and Savellish betooke themselves to flight by whole troops, and [...]ell one upon anothers baggage, and begun themselves to pillage their owne; but the Weymarish followed them close, and chased them away from it, and parted the good booty amongst themselves, and by that meanes divided and seperated themselves so farre one from another, that Duke Bernhard of Weymar could no more relye upon his horsemen, but onely with the foot forces, and some few troopes of horse maintained the place of fight, and in that place his Highnesse was well and thankfully contented with this and other victories, which it had pleased God Almighty to grant unto him.
Now when it was come so farre, that many of the Commanders wished much joy to his Highnesse of that glorious victory, Generall Major Tupadell was urged by his zeale and eagernesse to pursue with some small troops of his men after the fugitives; and when he had sent his troops up and downe, here and there, and thought to returne backe againe with some few men thinking that no more of the Imperiall and Bavarian troops were at hand: he was met unawares by an Imperiall troop, which had drawn together againe, and thus was carried away prisoner: and neere the very place of fight, five Imperiall squadrons of horse, and foure of foot, lay yet on a certaine hill, and a very advantagious place, which made shew, as if they would defend themselves further; but as soone [Page 19] as the maine body of the Wey-marish Army came neere unto them, and a blinde alarum was made, they retired immediatly in a great disorder, and fled towards Offenburg, where his Excellence Field-marshall Goetz himselfe stayed not above halfe an houre, but with sixe wagons loaden with baggage, which of all the rest he had left behinde him there, retired yet the same night, together with General Major Sknetter, Colonell Geyling, Truekmuller, and Reynach towards Overkerk, into the narrow valley, where his Excellency caused divers high Officers which were carried away from the place of fight either dead, or dyed by the way, to be buried: In the meane time the wayes and passages over the high mountaines, (called the Kniebis) which were stopped by cutting downe of trees, he caused by the Country people to be opened, and the rest of his and the Duke of Savellies troopes, as namely 1400 horse. and 900 foot, yet all in a great confusion, to march through the said passages into the Country of Wirtenberg, and immediately thereupon caused the said wayes and passages to be digged up againe, and to be stopped with cutting downe of trees, more then they were afore-time. On the other side, his Highnesse Duke Bernhard of Weymar took his lodging upon the place of fight amongst the dead and wounded, where the enemy in the beginning stood in battell aray, and there rested with joy of his extraordinary great labour, which he had that day, because he himselfe in person hath brought up and lead on almost all the Squadrons and Brigads, and many [Page 20] times he was in the midst of the enemies troops, and was knowne by many of the Imperiall Officers, which called him by his name, and craved quarter of him: but God Almighty hath protected his Highnesse so farre, that he had not the least hurt, onely upon his armour he had got two slashes. His Highnesse motto in this hot and bloudy battell was, Gott mitt vus: or in English, God with us: and amongst the French and other nations then present in the battell, which could not well pronounce the German language, their motto was Emanuel. But amongst the Goetzish and Savellish, they called Ferdinandus: the victory consisted in these points. 1 That his Highnesse Duke Bernard of Saxon Weymar recovered againe not onely all his Canons, which the Imperialists during the battell had taken from him, but also taken from them all theirs, as many as they had about them; namely, two Demi-Cannons, two great heavy pieces, which they call Boehlers, wherof each did shoot 125 l. bullet, three Faulcons, two Falconets, and foure Field-pieces, together with all their appurtenances, Bullets, Granadoes, Gunne-powder and Matches, which consisted of a great quantity; as also many wagons loaden with all manner of materials two Field-Smiths, and all necessaries belonging to the state of a well ordered Artillery, together with all the Officers and men belonging thereunto. 2 That his Highnesse hath obtained all the victuals and provision wherewith the City and Fort of Brysack should have beene relieved together with all the wagons that belonged thereunto, which [Page 21] were in all 1000 in number. 3 That his Highnesse hath taken from the Goetzish and Savellish, all their baggage, namely 2000 Wagons and Carts, amongst which were many faire Coaches, with a very rich booty, and especially the Chaunceries and letters of both the Generall Field-Marshals. 4 That his Highnesse hath taken from them 80 Standards [...]nd Ensignes, amongst which were 7 of Generall Field-Marshall Goetz, his Life Regiment of Currassiers, which are very faire, and embroydered with silver and gold, and of other Regiments of Currassiers, were likewise found divers standards. 5 That not onely above 1500 men of the Imperiall and Bavarian Army were slaine upon the place of fight, but also a great number of them chased into the River of Rhine and drowned: many yeelded upon discretion, and tooke service under Duke Bernhard of Weymar: many were taken prisoners; and in a word, this brave Army, which consisted altogether of the ancient Regiments, at least 12000 effective strong, was so diminished and dispersed, that as above said, not above 2500 men of horse and foot, came againe to their Generals, but how many wounded and hurt men are amongst them, is not yet knowne. The Imperiall Field-Marshall, Duc de Savelly, was shot into his backe, and narrowly escaped. Colonell Seneschall is taken prisoner, Colonell Meusell, Colonell Hagshausen, Colonell Sales, who commanded the Brisigellish: Colonell Stephan Albert, who commanded the Tyllish: and Colonell de Puis, who commanded the Eppish Regiment, as also [Page 22] Colonell Limpach, and as it is generally beleeved, Colonell Edelstett are slaine: five Lievetenant Colonels are taken prisoners, and at least sixe or seven slaine. Of Sergeant Majors were but three taken prisoners, but how many of them (as also of Captaines of horse, Captaines of foot, Lievetenants, Standardbearers, Ancients, and other under Officers) were slaine, it is not yet perfectly knowne, although a great number of them are known, and easily may be guessed at by the precedent relation. Sergeant Major Vivario was buried at Overkerk, besides other officers: and it is certaine that a great number of the Imperiall Officers are taken prisoners, even the Rosich Regiment alone hath taken above 100. amongst which the meanest are quarter-masters; but the reason why the whole number of all the Regiments could not be drawn together and here named, is, because the Regiments cōtinued together no lōger, but one whole day, but were partly by his Highnesse, D. Bernard of Weymar commanded to pursue further after the enemy, and the most part of them sent here and there into their quarters for the better conveniency of getting sorrage for the horses. His Highnesse Duke Bernard of Weymar in this great and violent re-encounter, hath lost on his side fourteene Ensignes, and eight Standards, two Majors, as namely Major Weyersheim of the Tupadellish Regiment of horse, and Major Vitzthumb of the Hatsteinish Regiment of foot, together with eight or nine Captaines of horse and foot, and certaine under Officers, as also about 500 common [Page 23] Horsemen and Souldiers, whose number was so largely supplyed and made up againe by the prisoners, that tooke service willingly, that, as it was openly seene, the greater part of his Highnesses Regiments of Foote marched off from the place of fight certaine 100 men stronger then they were, when they went thither.
The Imperiallists in their retreate carryed away prisoners as above said Generall Major Tupapell, Lieutenant Colonell Ruht of the Vorbufish Regiment, foure Captaines of Horse, and three or foure Captaines of Foote, together with certaine Lieutenants, Standard bearers and Ancients, which within few daies shall bee redeemed againe by exchange. And on his Highnesse side in this first occasion hath beene wounded most dangerously, Colonell Rotenhan a valiant Souldier, Lieutenant Colonell Rhinegrave Iohn Lodowick, Lieutenant Colonell Fleckenstein, Major Rosa, Major Prestin, but now, God bee thanked, they are all without danger of their lives, Colonell Rosa, and Colonell Count William Otto of Nassaw have likewise beene shot, notwithstanding they did not leave their Office, but still kept on Horseback, and performed their service: On Teuesday following being the 31 of Iuly his Highnesse, Duke Bernhard of Weymar caused first of all those Souldiers, which were slaine of his Army, as also all the chiefe of the enemies Officers, that could bee knowne to bee orderly buried.
In like manner his Highnes gave order, that provisiō should be made, that for the hurt and wounded, & they were lodged in severall places, afterwards he gave to the Souldiers for their refreshment all the Wagons which were taken, together with all the provision in them, and sent for all his Baggage to be brought unto him from Mohlburg upon the place of fight: On wednesday morning being the 1. 11 of August, (to the praise and glory of God, who had granted so glorious a victory by the whol Army) a solemne Fast of thanksgiving, was kept where the Hymne, Prayer, and the Annunciation of the blessings of the most High God did sound about through the whole Campe, by every Regiment severally: And with his Highnes, were present all the Colonels and chiefest Officers, and together with Him they sung hartily the 124 Psalme: If God had not bin on over side &c. afterwards after the hearing of the word of God, hee presented himselfe upon his knees under the open sky, and by speciall praiers gave hearty thankes unto God Almightie, and thereupon Te Deum Laudamus was joyfully sounded, and with all submission were presented unto his Highnesse, by every Regiment particularly, the Standards and Ensignes, which they had obtained, and did hang them up before his Tent, which (being many new and faire Standards and Ensignes) was very stately and sumptuous to looke upon. After all this his Highnesse first of all caused to bee discharged all the Cannons as well [Page 25] his owne, as also those which hee had taken from his enemie, and then all the Horsemen and Musquetiers discharged twise in a faire order, and thus this generall feastivall day of joy was concluded. We heartily pray God Almighty to blesse this victory according to his Highnesses owne words, praiers and hearty wishes, that it may tend to the glory and praise of Gods holy Name, for a generall, firme and constant peace of our deare native Countrey, and to the redeeming and refreshing of many distressed and oppressed Christians. Amen, Amen.
FROM THE CAMPE BEFORE BRISACK, the 19. or 29. of September, 1638.
IT being noised in the Camp that some hundreds of Crabats, with certaine bushels of meale behind them upon their horses (were upon a designe, and on the way to get into Brisacke:) all passages were blocked up, and carefully watched, that they cannot easily steale into the town: we labour hard to fortifie the Campe on this side of the Rhine: namely, betwixt Hechen Helhing, and Iringh, as farre as the ship bridge: the trenches are in full defence (betwixt the French and high Dutch quarter) by twelve Redoubts, which are all well furnished with Cannon provision and ammunition in the sconces, which are thirteen in number, are made [Page 27] Backhohse, furnace, and other works. In a word, his Highnesse the Duke Bernard of Weymar, takes great paines to get the City for the Crowne of France. Here in the Camp we have abundance of all manner of provision. And his Highnesse Duke Bernard, causes the souldiers and labourers to worke day and night in the approaches. The souldiers that labour, receive every night 25 stivers a piece, and the Boores 10 stivers. The other day was brought into the Campe from Newburg, two great Morter pieces, and foure great pieces of ordnance, every one of them carrying a bullet of twelve pound, and yesterday there was brought hither foure demy Canons. The besieged shoot fiercely out of the towne, because they are well provided of ammunition, but hitherto they have done but little harme with their artillery. The fugitives that come to us out of Brisacke, relate unanimously that the provision which was brought last into the towne, is almost eaten up, for the towne cannot spend l [...]sse then 25 Multers of corne every weeke. They relate also that every souldier receives no more then halfe a pound of bread a day: of Cattell they have no want. Yesterday nine of our horsemen went close to the City of Brisacke, and brought with them out of the pasture 62 Beefes, and 13 horses. We likewise have intercepted a Spy, who came with letters from the Emperour, (from Prague in Bohemia) unto Generall Major Reynaker, Governour in the City of Brisacke.
Stransburgh the 20 or 30 of Sept.
THe City of Brisacke is now round about besieged, so that now no man can get in, or come out without great danger of being taken or slaine. Fresh men are sent from the Duke of Longeville, and more are expected daily: the Imperiall Field-Marshall Goetzs lyes now at Villenghen, and the Duke de Savelly at Heilbrun. Duke Bernard hath taken the Village of Pisen into his trenches, because the Crabats that last got into Brisacke, came that way. The head quarter of the Imperiall Field-Marshall Goetz is at Eshingen, four leagues from Brisack, where he doth intrench himselfe for feare of being surprized by Duke Bernard. The most part of Duke Bernards Horse lay in the Munster Valley, foure leagues from Brisacke, and have brought great store of provision (from the Swartzwold, alias Blackwood) and laid it into Fryburg.
Saint German 22 of Sept. 2 of October.
THe Spanish forces have taken the Castle of Pomara, not farre from Cassell, and have besieged Rosigeau. The Dutchesse of Savoy hath desired ayde and assistance of his Majesty the King of France, or else she should be forced to come to an agreement with the Spaniard: wherefore his Majesty the King hath sent her in money 400000 pound.
The Duke Charles of Lorraigne makes preparations for the reliefe of Brisacke, wherefore order is given by his Majestie the King, that divers troops shall be sent to Duke Bernard of Weymar, to reinforce his Army. Monsieur Belleford with 400 horse, and 1200 foot is marching toward the French County. And Colonell Gassion with foure Regiments towards Lorraigne. Monsieur Hallier (as soone as Chastilett is fortified, and the workes repaired) with 6000 horse and foot is to follow him, and by the way is to cleare the Dukedome of Lorraigne, and to succour Duke Bernard of Weymar. In a word, the most part of the French forces are going towards Brisgow.
Paris the 22 of Septemb 2 of Octob.
DVke Bernard of Weymar hath sent one of his Pages to his Majestie the King, and desires succour. The Cardinall Richelieu is at Saint Germains, and hath saluted the Queene and her Son, and this day he is expected here. The other day Count Henry of Nassaw arrived here to congratulate their Majesties the King & the Queen in the name of his Highnesse the Prince of Orange. The Lord of Bredrode is likewise expected to congratulate their Majesties, the King and the Queene, in the name of the Lords States. Yesterday the Ambassadors of the Crowne of Sweden, Genoa, and the Popes Nuntio have congratulated the Queene. The Lord Knyt is treating here with the King concerning the Lords States.
Antwerp the 30 of September, the tenth of October.
FRom Lisbon the eighteenth or twenty eight of August is written, that in the harbour at Vienna and Porta Port, arrived the fourth or fourteenth, and fifth or fifteenth of the said moneth, 23 ships, with nine or ten thousand chests of Sugar, and two hundred thousand Rials, with other commodities, which came from Rio dell Genuo. It was two yeares growth of the Sugar: five thousand Chests more are expected from the Bahie Todos los Santos within few dayes. And they write, that the fleet appointed for Brasile, shall goe to Sea within two or three weekes, being 38 Sayle, amongst which are five and twenty or sixe and twenty well manned ships, but how many souldiers they are to carry thither, is diversly spoken of: some write of five thousand, others eight thousand Souldiers and Mariners, but esteemed unexpert men. As soone as the Fleet is gone to Sea, all the ships that are stayed there, shall be set free againe. The Spanish Army in Italy hath laid a bridge over the River of Sesia, neere Bremio, and another over the River of Poe. The halfe of the Spanish Army lyes about Pomaro, and the rest is gone towards Aigni to besiege Alba.
Flushing the 1 or 11 of October.
SInce my last letter, Captaine Iohn Williams hath brought in hither a Caravell, which came from Bahie Todos los Santos, which hath in her two hundred and sixty chests of Sugar, a great number of Hides, a good quantity of Brazill wood, with other commodities.
Lower Saxony, the 3 or 13 of October.
HIS Excellencie Generall Bannier lies about Drubensea, with the greater part of his army. His troupes are to take their Winter quarter in the lower Pomerania. The Brandenburgish forces have plundred of their owne Cities Betzaw, Bernaw, and Landsberg. Those of Berlin fearing they should be served in like manner, cause every night an hundred and sixty soldiers to watch. The Sicknesse is hot in the Brandenburgish campe and in the countrey there is great misery.
The seventeenth or twenty seventh of September his Imperiall Majesty went from Brundis to Leutmaritz, to conferre there with the Elector of Saxony.
The Prince Elector Palatine with his and the Swedish troupes lies now before Lemgow, which he fiercely batters, and hath brought before it foure Morter pieces, and it is thought that the city will not be able to hold out long.
Amsterdam the sixth or sixteenth of October.
IN the Texell lye ready foure shippes which are bound for Brasile, which carry over with them foure hundred and fifty land souldiers, and two great shippes likewise which are bound for Ginny.
The army of his Highnesse the Prince of Orange is broken up this weeke from the Grave, and gone into garrison. And the other day his Highnes the Prince of Orange is safely arrived at the Hague.
The valiant Ritmaster Crook, while that the Cardinal Infant lay about Venlo, hath don great harme to the Spaniards, and brought many horses into our Campe.
From Frankfort the seventh or seventeenth of October it is written,
THat the Weymerish Generall Commissioner going from the Campe towards Basill, is taken prisoner by an Imperiall party that was abroad that way.
The Dunkirkers are now at sea, the Hollanders are pursuing after them, and hath already taken two of their ships.
Venice the one and twentieth of September, or first of October.
DOn Francisco di Melo with the Spanish army intended to passe the river of Poneor Villagio, to make an invasion into Montferrat: but the French and Savoy troupes lay in waite for them in an advantagious place, and gave them such entertainement that they were forced to retyre and leave their bridge behind them.
The Gallies of Malta have met with six Turkish Gallies of Rhodes, sunke foure of them, and taken two; but two of the Maltaza Gallies were sunke likewise in the fight.
Basill the two and twentieth of September or second of October.
DVke Bernard of Saxon Weymar causeth the Labourers to worke hard about the circumvallation before Brisacke, and hath cut downe a great part of the wood on this side the Rhine; and to secure the bridge he hath raised neer unto it two Ravelins, and likewise a royall sconce. [Page 36] The circumvallation is three houres going in the round, with deepe moats and breast workes, which in some places are sixteene foot thicke.
Sixe dayes agone the Cannons were mounted upon all the batteries, and played fiercely upon the besieged. His army is victualled from Colmar Benfield, Strausburg, and the wood Cities, and from the blacke Forrest the forrage and cattell are brought into the Campe. The most part of the French troupes are taken out of the campe and put into garrison into Freyburg and other places; and the high-Dutch are brought out of the garrisons to supply their places. Many houses and butts are built in the quarters, and a great Magazine is erected; whereby some guesse that Brisacke will hold out yet a long time. Colonell Rosa with sixe Regiments is gone through the wood towards Newstat and Villengen, to visit the Imperialists in their quarters.
Colonell Berenhalt is freed from his imprisonment by redemption: and the Marquesse of Dourlach and Paderburg is freed from this world by death at Strausburg. Of the French succours two thousand men are arrived in this Bishoprick, and in Delsperger valley the old garrisons of Mompelgard follow; insomuch that Duke Bernard of Weymar (as it is thought) will receive an accrue & succor of 12000 men.
Villingen the 26 of September, or sixth of October.
THe Imperiall field Marshall Goetz with his Army lies round about Ravensbergh, and hath drawne together in haste all his horse and foot, and hath brought together ten regiments.
Generall major Lamboy and Colonell Wael, with foure thousand men which will be here within ten or twelve dayes are to joyne with him.
The twentieth or thirtieth of September the Dutchesse of Bavaria was brought to bed of another sonne, who was christened Maximilian Philippus Ieronimus.
Saint Germaine the 29 of September, or ninth of October.
THe Admiral of Burdeaux for want of provision hath betaken himselfe to Belsle. The Duke de Valetta Monsieur Grammont and others are expected here to bring the information, who was in the fault that the siege before Fontarabie was raised. The government of Guyen is given to the Prince of Conde, and hath now absolute authority to dispose of the warres in those parts. His Majesty the King hath sent from Paris to Guyenne foure hundred thousand pound. The Duke of Longueville hath order and command to hinder the victualling and reliefe of Brisacke from Lorraine side, and to send all needfull assistance to Duke Bernard of Weymar: foure Regiments consisting of two thousand men, are passed through the dominion of Berne and Delspenger Vallie, under the command of Monsieur Roque, and gone to the Camp before Brisack. His Majestie the King hath likewise sent to Duke Bernard Weymar, foure hundred thousand pound.
Frem the Camp before Brisack the 30 of September, or 10 of October.
THe circumvallations about this City, was finished seven dayes agone, consisting of twenty royall Sconces, and a great many of Redouts, with deep and wide Moats, and double Palisadoes, in such a form the like was hardly ever seen in Germany in any siege. Of victuals we have no want, bread we have in abundance, a pound of flesh is sold in the Campe for three pence, a quart of wine for foure pence: Geese, all sorts of fowle, Salt, Bacon, Cheese, and other provisions for the mouth, are bought at a reasonable rate. The first of this moneth, Colonell Rosa went from the Blackwood into Vibres valley, and the Count of Nassaw towards the Munster valley, to visit the Imperialists in their quarters, which intrench themselves betwixt Hohenwiel and Waldshut; it seemes that they ayme at Lauffenberg, to make a diversion. The City of Kentzingen, Duke Bernard of Weymar hath burned downe, pulled downe the wals, and brought the materials of the said City into the Campe, to build houses and huts, it seemes as if a new City were built about Brisacke. The Duke of Longeville hath taken by assault Chamnitz. The third of this moneth, Monsieur le Motte, with 6000 foot, and 4000 horse is marched through the Bishopricke of Basill, and is expected here to morrow. Colonell Shonbeck with 200 [Page 40] Muskettiers, hath taken the little sconce before Brisack, which lyes upon an Iland, in which hee found two pieces of Ordnance, each carrying a bullet of 6 pound, and three pieces of 12 pound bullet: the besieged in two dayes made upon it above 200 Cannon and demy-cannon shot, upon which we made a false alarum (to draw them out of the towne) made shew as if we would forsake the Sconce, but the besieged found the contrary, for they were in great confusion chased into the Rhine. The great Sconce neare the City is at this present likewise fiercely battered: as soone as we have mastered the same, then we can with ease ruinate the bridge before Brisacke. Duke Bernard of Waymar is resolved to fight againe another battell, if the Duke of Lorraine (who is at Than) with some thousands of his owne men, and assisted with the Imperialists, to assault the Duke Bernard on both sides of the Rhine. Here at this present are the French Ambassadour, Monsieur Molliand, the English Resident Fleminge, Generall Major Erlach, a Lord of Rhelingen, which treat upon weighty matters with Duke Bernard.
Lien the 30 of Septemb. 10 of Octob.
THe Prince of Conde hath accused the Marshall de Valette to be the occasion of the losse at Fontarabie, alledging that hee did not assault the Spanish Succours, rather obeying his father the Duke of Espernons cōmand, then the service he should have done; and this, because he was discontented, that the generall command which the Prince of Conde had, was not given unto him: wherefore his Majesty, the King hath commanded Espernon to retire to his house, and the Marquesse de Valette summoned to appeare at the Court.
SOME PASSAGES OVT OF THE NOremberg Avisoes, of the moneth of October, from Basil.
From the Camp before Brisack.
THat the Imperiall Field-Marshall Goetz, and Generall Major Lamboy, the 11 or 21 day of this moneth, with 5000 horse, and 8000 foot, and 12 pieces of Ordnance, broke up from Kirckhosen, and marched towards Brisack, and presented themselves about the length of two Canon shots from the Weymarish Campe, made three shots out of demy-Canons: whereupon those of Brisacke, with three Canon shots answered; on Friday morning the Imperialists with their Artillery approached, [Page 43] and at night 1000 foot, and certaine 100 Currassiers carrying along with them great canon baskets, intended to assault a Sconce below Brisacke, but being there was a cleare Moone-shine night, they were beaten off with small shot. Vpon Sunday, being the 14 or 24 of this moneth, the Goetzish Army assaulted the two upper Sconces, whereof one lay in the wood, and the other about Duke Bernards Rhine-bridge, and they were faine to wade through a moat and ditch above the middle, afore they could come neere the Sconce, yet at last they mastered it, and put all the Scots that lay in it to the sword, and thus mastered the first bridge, which lay over an arme of the Rhine, and thereupon, two Imperiall squadrons about 1600 strong, passed upon the head bridge of the Rhine, and threw off a part of it, lest they should be surprized and over-hastened; notwithstanding Duke Bernard of Weymar commanded thitherwards Colonell Shonbeck, with certain Regiments of horse and foot, which immediately with boords and other materials, repaired the Bridge again, and although the Goetzish Muskettiers gave fierce fire upon them, yet at last they were beaten backe, many of them were drowned in the moat, and the rest almost all slaine and taken prisoners, insomuch that of those 1600 men, very few escaped. In the meane time the Weymarish forces under the command of Monsieur de Guebrian, did beat the Goetzish Muskettiers out of the next Sconce that lay in the Wood, and recovered againe the lower Sconce, but the upper Sconce, the Goetzish forces [Page 44] kept strongly guarded till night: but when Duke Bernard of Weymar commanded against it at night a Lievetenant with certaine troops of horse and foot. He found the Sconce open and forsaken, insomuch that the Goetzish at night leaving behinde them 1600 dead, and certaine 100 wounded & prisoners, amongst which are said to be 26 Captaines, broke up and marched towards Freyburg, which place they summoned, yet they would not stay there, but marched towards Offenburg. Colonell Golling, together with many other Officers, was slaine in this assault: on the Weymarish side, Colonell Lesle is either slaine, or taken prisoner; Colonell Shonbeck was shot through the shoulder, and many of the souldiers were likewise slaine: yesterday Duke Bernard of Weymar hath likewise taken the Iacobs Sconce and Mill Sconce, insomuch that Brisack is now in extreame danger, out of which they shoot very fiercely.
Venice the 29 of Octob. and 9 of Novemb.
AT Constantinople upon the command of the great Turke, the Venetian Ambassadour there is arrested, and is watched at Pera by 200 Ianitsars, because the Venetians have assaulted the Barbary Gallies in the harbour at Valona, wherefore this Signory is preparing & making ready against the next Spring, above 100 Galleyes, besides the Gallions and other ships.
Leipsig the 27 of Octob. or 7 of Novem.
FRom the Marquisate of Brandenburg is written, that the Imperiall Army is marching againe towards Domitz: the Ship-bridge is likewise carried thither from Werben, and the Luneburgish troops about 4000 strong, are likewise gone towards Domitz, and certaine Saxon Regiments under the command of Field-marshall Marazini, are likewise marching to the Gallashish Army, insomuch that the said Army will be reinforced with nine or ten thousand fresh souldiers to oppose Generall Bannier, who is gone again from the River of Elve, towards the Dukedome of Mecklenburg, where hee mastereth all the strong places. Colonell Slangh hath likewise summoned the Warmunder Sconce, but the Governour in it refuseth to surrender it.
Collen the 25 of Octob. the 4. of Novemb.
LAst Sunday a great fire happened in the City of Orsoy, which burned down almost halfe the City, and did great harme, and about 39000 Cheeses, which belonged to shippers, & all the matches for the garrison was burned, insomuch that they were to be provided againe from Rhinberck in all haste.
The Hatzfieldish troops lay yet still in the Bishopricke of Osnabrugge, and refresh themselves. Generall Major King hath commanded abroad, 1000 horse [Page 46] to d [...]s [...]ry them, which lighted upon foure Imperiall Companies, totally routed and dispersed them, and tooke from them two Standards. In the Bishopricke of Bremen have been taken up 2000 souldiers for the Prince Elector Palatine, which are already marching towards Minden.
From the Camp before Brisack, the 18 or 28 of Octob.
MOnsieur de Turenne, and Colonell Shmidberger, have taken by assault from the Brisackers, a head Sconce, on which the chain hangeth, which is a great losse to the Brisackers, insomuch that the besieged do shoot so fiercely no more: one that came out of the City, had about him bread that was baked of branne and Acron shels, who being strictly examined, confessed that they had generally no other bread in the town, except the high Officers.
The 16. 26. of this moneth, the Lorraine troopes mastered the City of Ensisheim, but the Castle holds out yet, and is well provided. The Weymarish horsemen are gone against them to beat them out againe. Field-marshall Goets intends to lay a bridge over the Rhine at Drusenheim.
The other day an Eagle flew thrice about Duke Bernard of Weymars campe, as also over Duke Bernards own Tent, but at last he flew towards Freyburg: the meaning of it, God knowes.
Collen the 26 of Octob. the 5 of Novem.
The Palatine & Swedish troops gather themselves again very strong about Minden and Osnabrugge, and they are already stronger then they have been before the battell: there come daily more fresh forces un [...] [...]
A VISOES FROM NORIMBERG. A full declaration of the Battell betwixt Duke Bernhard and the Duke of Lorrain.
From Basill the 12. 22. Oct.
DUke Bernhard of Weymar having received intelligence that the Duke of Lorrain, Generall Sergeant Major Passampiere, and Generall Major Mercy, the 3. 13 of this moneth, with 6 Regiments of horse, 5 peeces of Ordnance among which are 2 Demicannons, and 80 wagons loaden with provision was arrived about Than, he himselfe in person in all haste with 7 Regiments of horse and 500 commanded musqueteres, under the command of Colonell Shmitberger, 6 peeces of Ordnance each carrying a bullet of 6 pound, [Page 66] broke up and marched toward Than, & the 5. 15 of this month about 10 of the clock in the morning, lighted upon the Duke of Lorraine betwixt Vfhottzen, and Sanheimeb, where he lay with his whole Army, which Duke Bernhard of Weymar immediately charged and especially slanked upon the horse from all places, and assaulted them with such fury, that at last they were forced to leave the field in great disorder and confusion, leaving many dead, wounded, and prisoners behind them. The foot forces after the fight retired into a wood called Nunnenbruch; which wood, Duke Bernhard surrounded with the horse, planted the Ordnance before it, and shot so fiercely into it, that many of the Lorrainers were slaine in it: of the rest some hid themselves, and some fled towards Than, Duke Bernhard having got all the Lorraine Cannons, all the ammunition, wagons, and 23 Standards. Generall Sargeant Major Passampiere, the Generall A'diutant, Lieutenant Colonell Fleekenstein, many Captaines of horse, and other officers, are taken prisoners. What officers have been slain on the Weymarish side, is not yet knowne; we heare only of Colonell Wittersheim. The Count of Nassaw is shot into the Leg: Colonell Okem had only a touch of a Bullet, and the Earle of Witgenstein was shot through the cheeke. After this victory, the French succour consisting of 2000 men joyned with Duke Bernhard of Weymar, who immediately thereupon with his troops marched again into the Camp before Brissack, because Field-marshall [Page 65] Goetz and Generall Major Lamboy had joyned together and arrived at Kirchhoffin betwixt Freyburg and N [...]wburg with 5000 horse, and 7000 foot, 12 peeces of Ordnance and great store of provision. The other day Duke Bernhard of Weymar commanded Colonel Shmitberger and Colonel Shonbeck with 2000 men, and many scaling ladders to march on this side of the Rhine against the Sconce before Brissack, which they assaulted with such fury, that they tooke it without any remarkable losse, and obtained in it 10 peeces of Ordnance, and burned downe a great part of the Rhine bridge, and have so entrenched themselves already against the Sconce, that the besieged can doe them no more harme with their Canons although for 2 dayes together they have made 1000 Canon shot out of the Towne upon the Sconce, but all was in vaine. Yesterday 2000 sacks with Oates, 1500 sacks with Meale, 600 sacks with Corne, 3000 loafes of bread were brought downe from above in 6 ships into the Campe before Brissack. Last Friday when the battell was ended, Field-marshall Goetz gave a furious assault at night upon Weymarish Campe on this side of the Rhine, but he was so received by the Canons, that he was forced to retire back from the Camp an hour and a halfe's going. Saturday night the besieged sallied likewise forth very strong, but after a long Skirmish they were beaten back againe. we have now seen again the third time a great fire, which is [Page 68] taken for a signe that the besieged are in great distresse.
Brunswick the 7. 17 of Octob.
The Imperiall Lieutenant Generall Gallas with his troopes lyes now at Havelberg, and Generall Bannier in the Principallity of Saxon Lawenburg on the River of Elve, of whose Army certaine 1000 horse have beene already on this side of the River of Elve, an [...] driven away much cattell out of the Dukedome of Luneburg, fired a whole village, and thereupon went backe againe with the bootie. Their intent is to lay a Ship-bridge over the Elve which the Duke of Luneburg intends to hinder. The Gallassish army when it broke up from Pomerania, because of the deep waies and marrasses, hath left behind it divers great peeces of Ordnance which the Swedes got. The first of November, shall be a meeting in Leipsich, of the circle of upper and lower Saxonie, and the like shall be done in other circles, to consult by what meanes the enemies of the sacred Romane Empire may be opposed.
Collen the 18. 28. of Octob.
From Paderborne is written that the dispersed Swedish and Palatine troops gather themselves againe about the River of Wesar. Thither are likewise [Page 69] marching 4 Swedish Regiments which have not been in the battell, as also those Swedish Regiments which lay at Suttersea, Generall Picolomini is now going into his winter quarters in the Countrey of Gulick. Some say that he is to go to Field marshall Goetz. The Spanish Garison in Kerpen doth great harme, wherefore certaine Holland troops are likewise going towards the Countrey of Gulick. Foure dayes ago the Weymarish have taken the other Sconce on the Rhine. Colonell Shmitberger lyes now in the said Sconce, and shot downe & burned a great part of the other bridge. In the last battell of the Lorraine horsemen escaped not 100. The foot forces runne away in great number. At Mulhausen, Basel and Newburg above 300 have taken service under Duke Bernhard. At this instant we receive Avisoes that the great Sconce which lyes in the midst of the Rhine betwixt the two bridges is likewise taken by the Weymarish, which is of great importance.
From the Campe before Brissack the 14. 24 of Oct.
This morning the Imperiall field-marshall Goetz, and Generall Major Lamboy have made a furious assault upon the Sconces of our Camp before the Ship-bridge above the city: and after that we had beaten them off 4 times in the 5 assault, they became Masters of 2 Sconces and the Spipbridge, [Page 70] and had got above 400 men upon the said bridge: but they were so furiously assaulted by the Vicount of Turenne with his French troopes, that they were not only forced to forsake the bridge, but also one of the Sconces that they had taken. Almost all the Imperialists that were upon the bridge have beene knocked downe without mercy; and it is certaine that the enemy in those assaults hath lost above 1000 men, and we have taken prisoners 5 Captains, and Colonell Goling and Colonell Newmarck were slaine. On our side amongst the wounded is Colonell Shonbeck, Last night the French have taken Saint Iacobs Sconce, which lyes before the bridge of the City, insomuch that we are now wholly masters of the Rhine-bridge. Field-marshall Goetz is retired towards the black Forrest. We doe not yet know what bootie we have obtained, only we see that the souldiers doe bring into their quarters many silken coats, and wagons loaden with musquets and Pikes. At this present Field-marshall Goetz stands again in Batalia. By all appearance he will venture once more, the effect whereof we shall see to morrow
Another from the Campe the 15. 25. of Oct.
Yesterday I doubt not but you have understood out of my Letter, the victory which God almightie hath granted us. It is certaine that the enemy hath lost above a thousand men. This day Armes for two thousand men have been taken up, which the Imperiallists had throwne away. By all mens judgement Duke Bernhard by his owne strength could not have bin able to beat the enemy againe out of the Sconces which they had taken; and therefore his Highnesse and all the Colonells give the praise, next unto God, to the French, which fought like Lions, and gave quarter to none, but onely to seven or eight Captaines: Our high-Dutch have spared the lives of many Officers. Three chiefe Commanders whose names are not yet knowne, are slaine. Last night we thought the Enemy would have againe assaulted our Campe, but he departed suddenly in the night, and tooke his way toward Freybury, forsaking the other Sconce which he had yesterday in his possession. Our Horsemen are this day to follow him. Wee hope now to be shortly masters of Brissack. This day above eight hundred dead Souldiers have bin thrown into the River of Rhine, and in divers places many lie yet in the field unburied.
Strasburg the 19. 29. of Octob.
The Imperiall Field-Marshall Goetz for want of provision, is retiring with his Army towards Offenburg. [Page 72] The report goes very strong, that hee is to receive a succour of 6000. men, which are taken out of the Garrisons in Bavaria and other Countries, and is resolved to trie his fortune once more. Besides that, the D. of Savelle takes great paines to reforme the Duke of Lorraines Armie, and to relieve Brissack on the same side. In the last assault are presented unto Duke Bernhard 28 Captaines, together with Colonell Suyter, which are taken prisoners.
Paris the 20. 30 of October.
From Italy is written, That both Armies are gone into Garrison. The young Duke of Savoy is recovered againe of his sicknesse. The great Turke threatneth the Venetians with warre, yet the same Seigniory laboureth to compose the differences, and to appease them with Presents. The French Fleet in the Mediterranean Sea is gone towards Touton and Marsellies, to Winter there, and in the Ocean towards Rochell and Brest. The Duke of Longueville with twelve hundred Horse, and three thousand Foot is gone towards Brissack, and the Count of Arpenyan with two and twentie Companies of Horse, and sixe old Regiments of Foot, is gone towards Lorraine, to joyne with Monsieur Belliford. The Prince of Lorraine brother to Duke Charles, lyes with two thousand men about Vicy, and hath summoned Noyen. The succour under the command [Page 73] of Monsieur Roquenseniriere; consisting of two thousand men, is speedily marching towards Duke Bernhard of Weymar. Monsieur Haliere with his troops lye about Castilet, and Marshall De la Foru about Guyse, Prince Thomas and Picolomini about Buvay; Monsieur Benedesire hath presented to His Majestie the King 21. Standards, which Duke Bernhard of Weymar hath taken from the Duke of Lorraine about Than.
Osnabrug the 27. of October, and the 6. of November.
In the Circle lyes two Swedish Regiments, which straggle continually abroad, and bring in daily many Imperiall Souldiers which they take prisoners. The dispersed Palatine Cavallarie sallieth againe about this Citie, and at Minden, and there are not so many missed as it was thought. The Palatine and Swedish Officers which were taken Prisoners, in the last Battell are brought into Han, Munster, Warendorp, and other places. Prince Robert, the Lieutenant Generall Ferentz, and two English Lords are at Warendorp. Prince Robert is within few dayes to be carried to Vienna. The Prince Elector Palatine himselfe, Generall Major King, and the Officers are at Minden, onely Generall Major King is hurt in his shoulder, and one of his cheeks, but not dangerously. After the taken of Witlacken, the most part of the Hatzfieldish Horsemen arrived about Vecht, to besiege [Page 74] the same place. Foure or five dayes agoe the Citie of Munster hath sent five Peeces of Ordnance to Generall Hatzfeld. Doubtlesse he will use them in the siege. Duke George of Luneburg hath sent certaine troops of horse and foot from the River of Wesar towards Blekede. Colonell Slaugh with his commanded troops lyes yet at Lavenburg and Boytzenburg on the River of Elue, of which the Imperialists have surprised five hundred horsemen, and totally ruinated them.
Lower Saxony the 29 of October, and 8. of November.
The two and twentieth of October his Excellencie Generall Bannier with his whole Army arrived at Lawenburg, and hath arrested all Ships, to lay a Ship-bridge over the River of Elve, and to make an invasion into the Dukedome of Luneburg. The Imperiall Generall Gallas with his Army lyes about Rupin. Generall Klitsing about Berlin, and the Saxon troops about Wittenberg. The Palatine and Swedish troopes under Generall Major King, gather themselves againe very strong, and get great Succors. The peace with Hessen (as is beleeved) will goe forward, because the Emperour will suffer the reformed Religion in Hessen. At this present the Citie of Vecht is strongly besieged by the Imperiall Generall Hatzfeld, and from Munster two Morter-Peeces are brought into the Campe. Those of [Page 75] Osnabrug have taken prisoner the Count Spar, who had about him eighteen thousand Rixdollars in ready money, and certaine Standards, and was to command as Master of the Artillerle of the Hatzfeldish Army.
Luneburg the 23. of October, and 2. of Nomember.
Yesterday one thousand horse, and one thousand foot, marched through this Citie, and some Regiments by it, they make up in all foure thousand men belonging to Duke George of Brunswick, and Luneburg. They are brave and stout Souldiers, and are all going towards the River of Elve to oppose the Swedes which have threatned this Countrey. The Swedes master all strong places in the Dukedome of Mecklenburg. They have lately taken Botzow, which lies three leagues from Gustraw, and sixe leagues from Rostock; wherefore the same Duke will trust them no farther, but is gone with his Dutchesse to Brunswick.
Basel the 23. of October, and the 2. of November.
One part of the Duke of Lorraines troops had made a false alarum in one place of the Citie of Ensisheim, into which part of the Lorraine foote Forces had retired, by that meanes to amaze the [Page 76] Weymarish, which had given an assault upon the said Towne, that in the meane time the said Lorraine foot Forces might save themselves by flight: But Colonell Rosa perceiving their plot, prevented them immediatly with his troops, and lay in wait for them about Cwittelsback, neere a wood where hee fell upon them, totally routed and defeated them, slew many, and tooke prisoners two hundred horse, and foure hundred foot also. Which willingly take service under Duke Bernhard of Weymar, Generall Major Mercy, with no more but thirty horse-men fled to Than. Colonell Cuelyers Lieutenant Colonell, and two and twenty other Lorraine Officers are taken prisoners. Colonell Rosa pursued the rest into the wood. The Imperiall Field-Marshall Goetz, with his Army did the like, and made a shew as if hee would goe to this side of the Rhine towards Colmar: but now wee heare that hee is seeking already his winter Quarters in the countrey of Wirtenburg towards Tubingen. It seemeth that he hath no great mind more to assault our Sconces: We hope now that Brissack, in which the besieged are in great distresse, by the helpe of God will shortly be surrendred.
Alsatia the 26. of October, the 5. of November.
It is certaine that the Duke of Lorraine de Novo is routed and defeated neere Ensisheim by the Weymarish Colonell Rosa, who commanded [Page 77] one thousand horse, and two thousand foot, the most part of the Lorrainers have taken service under Duke Bernhard; the report goes, of neere upon one hundred Officers that were taken prisoners. Last Friday Duke Bernhard of Weymar caused the Citie of Brissack to bee summoned by a Trumpeter, the Governour Reinacher bestowed a quart of Rhinish wine upon the Trumpetter, and sent him word, that hee as an honest Souldier expected the promised reliefe, and sixe dayes hence hee should come againe.
St. Germaine the 27. of October, the 6. of November.
The Armies in Italie lie yet on both side in Garrison, the Spanlsh Forces lie partly in the Dukedome of Millaine, and partly in Montferat: the French Foot-forces lie likewise in some part of Montferat, and the Horse-men in Delphinate. His Majestie the King hath sent for divers Colonells, which have beene this yeare in the field, to come to the Court; some are beleeved will not fare well.
Bremen the 1. 11. of Novemb.
The Prince Elector Palatine, together with Generall Major King, is yet at Minden, and drawes together his Troopes from all places. Heere are passed by this Citie seven hundred [Page 78] new levyed souldiers for the sayd Prince Elector, all foot, which are marching towards their Randevouz; fifteene hundred more are daily to follow them with certaine peeces of Ordnance, a certaine summe of Money, and great store of Ammunition.
Hamborough the 3. 13. of Novemb.
His Excellency Generall Bannier hath his Head quarter a league from Swerin, being eight leagues from the River of Elve. The Imperiall Generall Gallas lyes at Grabau; both Armies approach one to another, insomuch that many beleeve, that within few dayes it will come to a pitch'd battell. Generall Hatzfeld hath order to joyne with the aforesayd Generall Gallas; to which end a Bridge is to bee layd over the River of Elve at Domitz. The Inhabitants of the Dukedome of Mecklenburg write of great misery, which they endure in the sayd Countrey.
Franckford the 11. 21. of Novemb.
As for Newes we have none other at this time, but that the same which I wrote unto you last weeke is confirmed, namely, that Duc de Savelly is totally routed. At this instant wee receive Avisoes from Vlin, that Bryssack is surrendred. The like they write from Lyon, Paris, and other places.
An Abstract of the NOREMBERG Curranto.
Basill the 25 of October, 5 of Novemb.
WHen yesterday was seven-night, Duke Bernehard of Wymar went to Prayers: a great Eagle flew about the Weymarish Campe, and about Duke Bernehards Tent; as if he would sit upon it; afterwards he flew againe into the Mountaines, which was seene by all those that were in the Campe.
After that the Lorraine troopes had taken the City of Ensisheim, and guarded it with 500 men, the Sweedish garrison that lay in it, retired into the Castle, from whence they shot fiercely into the City, whereupon the Lorraine Generall Major Mercy (of whose troopes, 400 Horse had likewise taken the little City of Munster, in St. Georges vallie, and obtained Colonell Callenbuchs Baggage, and afterward fired the said City) with 500 horse, and 500 Foot, together with two pieces of Ordinances, went likewise towards [Page 82] Ensisheim to master the Castle, wherefore Duke Bernehard of Weymar, commanded thitherwards Colonell Rosa with five regiments of horse to keepe the same place block'd up, till the fifteene hundred commanded Musquetiers, and six pieces of Ordinances, did follow him to relieve the Castle, but Generall Major Mercy, being loath to expect him, betooke himselfe with his troopes, together with the garrison out of Ensisheim, and thought to escape through the wood, neare Wildeshim, but Colonell Rosa lay in wait for him there, assaulted him, and totally routed and dispersed his troopes, that Generall Major Mercy, onely with thirty horsemen fled into Than, foure hundred Foot, and two hundred Horse of his troopes, together with their Officers, tooke willingly service under the Weymarish, the rest were knocked downe in the wood, and Colonell Rosa hath taken prisoner Generall Maior Mercy's Lieutenant, Colonell, and twenty two other Officers, and obtained two pieces of Ordnances, insomuch that now the whole Lorraine Armie is ruinated.
The Prince Elector Palatine, and the Swedish Generall King, recollect their forces, as much as they can, and are resolved to seeke their revenge.
Leipzig, the 2. 12. of Novemb.
The Diet of the Circle of upper Saxonie, takes [...] [Page 83] here is beginning, to which end, yesterday are arrived here Imperiall Electorall, and Princely Deputies, as also other Peeres of the circle of upper Saxonie, and thereupon yesterday, and this day in the forenoone, they have met together in the Towne-hall: what they will conclude, time will shew.
Both Armies in Pomerania, lay now still, only Generall Gallas, causeth the ship-bridge to bee laid againe over the Elve at Domitz, and all the provision that lyes at Maideburg, Tangermund, as also at Hamberough is carryed thither, it seemeth that they intend to march againe into the Dukedome of Mecklenburg, and we heare that Bannier is already marched towards Wismar. The City of VVitstocke is fired in divers places, & burn'd down to the ground.
From the Campe before Bryssack, the 25. of Octob. the 5. of Nov.
Certaine dayes agoe, Duke Bernhard of Weymar, summoned Bryssack, unto whom the Governour made a gracious answer: Duke Bernhard hath intercepted Letters, being dated the 9. 19 of of October, in which the Governour Reinacher writes, that he hath no more but for two dayes bread, and for some few dayes yet flesh, and that the most part of his souldiers, yea above the halfe part, especially the Officers are sicke, dead, runne [Page 84] away, & discontented, and that they have set him time, from the 26 of Aug. 6 weekes to relieve him, which were expired above halfe, if so bee it did not goe well, he would be blamelesse, because all things were now brought to extreame, what troubled him most, he durst not write, and that he dissembled so much, that he hopes that the enemy will not perceive it, and that notwithstansting he will doe his best indeavour, and yeeld in nothing to the Hermersteiners, &c.
From the Campe before Bryssack, the 30. of Octob. the 10. of Nov.
Yesterday the besieged did forsake their mill Sconce, against which we have approached these 2 dayes together, the mill they have fired in severall places: the night thereupon following, Duke Bernhard of Weymar, commanded Viscount de Turenne, & Monsier de Rogue, services against a Hill, called Eysenberg, which they tooke by assault, and tooke prisoners, one Captaine, and 30 souldiers, of the Wymarish souldiers were but 2. hurt, insomuch that the besieged have now no out-workes more: yesterday Duke Bernehard hath sent againe a Trumpeter into the City, and hath offered to the Governour Reinacher very honourable conditions, and withall warned him, that if so be he did stand out longer against all reasons and conscience, He would not take it ill, if his highnesse here fter did not deale with them, as an honest Cavallier.
An Extract of a Letter from Imlingon, the 30. of October 10. of November.
After that the French Army under the command of Monsieur de Feuguieres, had blocked up the City of Luneville, and received intelligence, that the Duke of Savelly with his Army, was in the way to march by Imlingen, & to joyn with the Duke of Lorraine, the said Monsieur de Feuguieres, immediatly broke up from before Luneville, and the 26. of October, about evening, with 16. or 1700. horse, tooke his quarter in the foresaid Towne of Imlingen, wherefore the Duke of Saville having received intelligence of it, marched towards Blamount, whereupon Monsieur de Feuguieres in the evening, an houre before night, broke up againe and tooke his quarter in the village of Singrichen, the next day after being the 28. day of October, hee quartered betwixt Airecourt and Blaumont, into which, (namely Blaumont) all the Savellish foote forces together with certaine troopes of horse, and all their Baggage came, where Monsieur de Feugieres, immediately routed and defeated all the foot, and made them yeeld upon discretion, and obtained all their Wagons, that were loaden with the Baggage and ammunition, about 88. together with three barrels with mony, and immediately thereupon surrounded the little City and Castle of Blanckenburg, in which the Duke of Saville with all rest of horsemen [Page 86] layes, insomuch that no man can get in or out: In the meane time the Duke of Longueville, with certaine 1000. men, hath likewise joyned with Monsieur de Feugieres, insomuch that the Duke of Saville together with all those that are about him, are in a trap, because they have not to looke for any succour or relieve; much lesse have they any provision, either for men or horse: and besides the said place is not strong at all. At this instant wee receive avisoes, that the said Duke of Savelly with 30. horse men, by a stratageme hath got out of the Towne, and saved himselfe by flight very narrowly.
From the Bishoprike of Bremen the 10. 20. of November.
Certaine dayes agoe arrived at Veyhsack in this Bishoprick 700. Souldiers both English Scots, and other nations, taken up by Colonell Valekener, for the Prince Electour Palatine, which thought to march through the City of Bremen, but the Magistrate of the said City, refused and granted them onely passage below the City over the River of Wesar. Our Bishop having received intelligence of it, summon'd with all speed all his subjects, and strictly charged every one to let no man passe, which they did accordingly, and drove the said Palatine troops, to the very gates of the City of Bremen, where they lay two days together without victuals, atlast they were faine to run away, and to shift for themselves as well as they could.
Minden the 11. 21. November.
The Prince Elector Palatine is yet here, and by all appearance will continue here this Winter. Lieutenant Generall King, hath recollected his troopes, both of horse and foo [...], [...]ut first of all they will be laid into garrison to refresh themselves with order to leave no rest to the enemy in all wherof Colonell Coningsmarck, hath done already a proove, assaulted and defeated the Imperiall Reereguard, and taken diverse Officers and common Souldiers, prisoners: together with certaine standards. Hee hath brought hither into the City. Other parties are at this present likewise in the field, insomuch that the prisons are made full, and the Imperialists, will not be able to lay long betwixt our garrisons.
From the Bishoprike of Munster the 11. 21. November.
The Imperialists have forsaken the siege before Witluken, the Imperiall Generall Hatzfeld, hath taken Cloppenburgh, and batters now fiercely the City of Vecht, but by reason of the continuall raine, he cannot approach, because the said place is by nature morish and waterie, his Souldiers stood in the approaches above the knees in the water.
Colen the 11. 21. of November.
We have received certaine Avisoes, that the Imperiall Fieldmarshall Goetz, is strictly change d by the Emperour to relieve Brysiack, [Page 88] although hee should consume and ruinate the whole Army; others write, that hee is to expect, first the comming of Piccolomeni, whose troopes are marching towards the River of Mosell: He himselfe in person was with the last letters, yet at Brussells.
Vlessing the 17. 27 of Nov.
From hence are gone to Sea, diverse ships, towards England and France, they have along with them, for a convey, 3 men of Warre, as namely Bastian Thys of the Veere, Abraham Corunis, and Captaine Holuert: the said Holuert, and Corunis, are to crosse the Sea, when they have brought their ships into safety: In the same Fleet, went a Prince of Polen, and the Sonne of Marshall de Chatillion. A partie of our souldiers in the Sconce of Philippina, have beene abroad, whereof some did swimme over the River of Ley, amongst which was one, who could well play his part with lamenting & groaning that he got a Priest out of his house, in a certaine village, to make his confession to his Father, as he cal'd him, because he was a dying: And although the Priest did not doe it willingly, because it was night, yet notwithstanding, out of compassion, as also by intercession of the Maid, was moved to goe along, and when they had him without his dore, they made him keep silence by threatnings, and tied a towell about him, and hailed him along with them over the River, and thus brought him into Philippina Sconce. He is a very rich Priest.
Vienna the 30 of October the 10 of November.
THis weeke his Imperiall Majesty hath beene a Hunting and kill'd above 100 wild Boares, and in the hunting hath escaped a great mischance, because the great wind tore out a great tree with the rootes, which fell downe close by his Imperiall Majestie yet without any hurt to him.
At Prague the sicknesse begins to be very briefe, many Spirituall and Laymen betake themselves into the Country: About the said City are likewise growne strange wormes, which have almost eaten up all the sowne corne.
From Hungary wee are certified, that the Turkish Army before Babilon about 300000 strong is totally routed and defeated, insomuch that the Turkish Emperour saved himselfe onely with few men, who hath charged now all the Bassas in Hungarie to give no cause or occasion to the Christians to warres.
Basil 2. 12. of November.
FRom the Campe before Brisack we are certified, that the 29. of October, many skaling ladders have beene brought into the Campe, and the same day the besieged for want of Souldiers have forsaken the Awemill, fired it, and carryed the Canons into the towne, which Mil is now guarded [Page 90] by the Weymarish, the night thereupō following the French have taken the Moas hill, and obtained upon it 5 peeces of Ordnances, insomuch that they have now in their possession all the outworks of the City on both sides; whereupon Duke Bernhard sent a Trumpeter into the City, who is not yet returned back againe, Fieldmarshall Goetz lyes yet in the Blackwood: The French succour consisting of 4000. foote and 1500. horse is Marching towards Dudel upon their arrivall, it is thought Duke Bernhard will give an assault upon the City of Brisack, the Souldiers, which come daily out of the City unto us, certifie, that many men are already dead and starved for want of food, the most part of the Souldiers lye sick: The Duke of Longoville hath received order from the King of France, to go into Lorraine and to recover againe Espinael and other places: The second of this moneth the Austrian Citie of Bludentz happened on fire, and within the space of 4 houres was burned downe to the ground.
Colonell Flenheim 3. daies a go upō order of Duke Bernhard of Weymar is gone against the Boores, what he will effect, we shall shortly heare. The confederate Switzers are yet together at Baden treating about the Neutrality of Burgundy.
Freyburg the 5 or 15 of November,
THe City of Brisack lies now a bleeding before the Gutenburg, Fieldmarshall Goetz hath [Page 91] lost 3 assaults, the said City is but little, yet strong and with few Souldiers guarded. Generall Major Lamboy with 800 men, is gone upon another exploit. Duk Bernhard of Weymar hath sent the Captaines, which hee hath taken upon the Ecken-hill, without any ranson into Brisack, to certifie the Governour of that which they have seene, especially of the overthrowes of the Duke of Lorraine and the Duke of Savelly, which overthrowes the besieged will not beleeve: The runne awaies, that came last out of Brisack declare all vnanimously, that the said City is in great distresse, all the Cats and Dogs in it are eaten up, a pound of Horse flesh is sold for 12 pence, every third day each Souldier received as much bread as the bignesse of an apple, and that not above 200 fighting men now are in the City.
Venice the 2. 12 of November.
The 19. 29 of October, the Governour of Cassal Octavio de Montegli was beheaded. Hee is accused by the French that he intended to surrender the said Castle unto the Spaniards.
From Constantinople is comfirmed the overthrow of the Turkish Army before Babilonia, wher 50000. Turkes were slaine, wherefore at Constantinople the ships and goods, not onely of the Venetians, but also of all other Christians, are set at liberty.
Erfurd the 10. 20 of November.
The Emperiall Generall Gallas with his Army lyes yet about Waldesleben, the shipbridge is [...]aid about Lentz over the River of Elve, the Luneburgish troopes about 4000 strong, and Generall Marozini [Page 92] with 5000 men of the Saxon troops are likewise marching to the Gallassish Army, which can be victualled for a time from Domitz, and within few dayes they are to goe over the River of Elve, against Generall Bannier, who hath great want of Horses, and had some losse before Damine.
The Imperiall proposition is made at Leipzig, the circle of upper and lower Saxonie shall maintaine 18000, foote, and 8000. horse, and besides the maintenance and service of the reformed Regiments, pay 1932370. Florens, th'tother circles are not taxed so high, and the Imperiall hereditarie Countries are kept exempt and free, insomuch that this meeting will produce strange things, the States and Peeres instead of paying pretend their poverty and distruction of their Countries, together with many displeasures and burdens.
The Swedish & Palatine troops that lay at Minden & Osnabrug straggle very strong up and downe, and have takē prisoner Colonel Otto, Christopher of Spar who should have beene Generall Sergeant Major of the Hatzfeldish Army, and tooke from him 14. Standards & Ensignes, which the Imperiallists had taken from the Swedes in Gartz and Wolgast.
The D. of Savelly is defeated again by the French upon the frontiers of Burgundy, & himself escaped only with 30 Horsemen: Generall Major Lamboy with his troopes is arrived againe about Darmstat, why he hath seperated himself from Fieldmarshall Goetz is not knowne.
Spandaw the 7 or 17 of November.
THe Swedish Generall Bannier lies yet about Swerin, certaine troupes of his souldiers have besieged the Warmunder Sconce neere Rostock. The Imperiall Generall Gallas with his army lyes yet about Lentz and Waldeslechen.
Leipzig the 10 or 20 of November.
The Dyet here continues yet. From Prussia is certified, that the Elector of Brandenburg going abroad in his coach, a shot was made downe from a house, which went through the coach and the brim of his hat, without doing him any hurt.
At this instant we receive avisoes, that the Imperiall field Marshall Goetz presenteth himselfe in the valley about Oldkerck in full battell array.
An Expresse which this day came hither brings news, that the said field Marshal Goetz with certain 1000 men hath fallen againe upon Colonel Morsers Sconce and Quarter before Brisack, but after that he had made three assaults upon it, hee was beaten off and forced to retyre with the losse of 2000 men.
Paris the 10 or 20 of November.
DVke de la Valette is fled with 50000 pistolets into England; wherefore Duke d' Espernon [Page 94] is more narrowly looked to at Blasack. The report goes that the Cardinal de la Vallette goes to Rome and Duke de Candale to Venice. Monsieur de Mery is called backe againe and arrived at Grenoble: in a word, many alterations fall in the Court about the Offices.
The Grisons can get no audience neither with the Archdutchesse of [...]yrol, nor with the Marques de Leganes, which by all appearance wil cause new troubles.
Last Sunday came hither a Page from duke Bernard of Weymar, who solliciteth for assistance. In al the Provinces great forces and monies are gathered to continue the war next spring with all severitie.
This day arrived here an Expresse, who came from the Duke of Longeville, relating that the duke of Savellies troups are totally routed and defeated. besides 500 horsmen more which lay in Blaumont, and yeelded upon discretion, with all the baggage and Chancery of the said duke of Savelly.
Monsieur Preul hath likewise defeated about Dourlans 500 horsemen.
Hamborough the 14 or 24 of November.
HIs Excellencie Generall Bannier hath his head quarter yet at New Cloyster, where hee doth re-inforce himselfe, and hath caused above 3000 horses to be brought, because many of his horses died, and neere upon 5000 horsemen went a foot. [Page 95] His Majesty the King of France hath de novo made over by bills of Exchange to Generall Bannier a great sum of mony:
Bremen the 16 or 26 of November.
The city of Vecht, in which the Swedish garrison defended it selfe stoutly, was surrendred the 14 or 24 day of this moneth by composition, unto the Imperiall Generall Hatzfield, and the Swedish garrison was conducted towards Minden. D [...]vers Imperiall high officers have beene slaine in this siege, as namely Generall Serjeant Major Westerholt, a young Count of Pappenheim, and above 300 common souldiers. At this instant we receive likewise Avisoes, that an Imperial convoy with ammunition going from hence towards the Imperiall camp, was assaulted about Wilshousen by 80 Swedish horsemen that came out of Nienburg, and totally routed and defeated, and all the gun-pouder blowne up.
Mastricht the 17 or 27 of November.
LAst Monday the French horsemen went abroad from hence, and have pillaged in the country of Gulick, Geelkercken and other places, and are returned hither againe with a rich booty. At this instant by beating of the drumme is published, that all merchants in the Bishopricke of Collen, country of Gulick, and Haken, may free and without [Page 96] hindrance come hither into this city with their wares, and that they shall not bec molested or troubled by the Frenh.
Collen the 17 or 27 of November.
WIth the last letters from Strausburg is written, that duke Bernard of Weymar hath taken the Eckenberger sconce, and being he understood by the prisoners the great distresse of the besieged, hee was resolved to assault them by force.
The Imperiall General Sergeant Major Horst with 3000 horsemen is gone toward Stollhoven to passe the river of Rhine. Wee heare of no great succour sent unto Field Marshall Goetz, insomuch that the relieving of Brisack is much doubted.
Amsterdam the 25 of Nov. or 4 of December.
This weeke are arrived in the Ulie between two and 300 ships, which came from the East Countries and Norway.
The West India Company in these provinces continues yet strongly with their preparations, and above 1600 brave soldiers are already mustred and shipped, and 3000 more are to be taken up.
From Barcellona are sent towards Italy 370 chests with Ryals of eight, for the continuing of the war in Italy.