IN obedience to your Lordships commands, I have undertaken to render you a Succinct Relation of the Proceedings of the Conclave in their Election of Pope Clement the Eighth. In the beginning whereof I must ingeniously confess my self perplexed with astonish­ment and fear, when I consider the brevity of man's life, and how often we find Joy and Tears to be each others successors; seeing that in the little space of 18 months we have seen five Popes, Sextus, Urbanus, Gregorius, Innocentius, and Clement: which acci­dent, it is possible, never yet did happen: and they do the more affright me, as being the scourges of a Celestial Power upon us, to admonish us of our deceits and grievous sins. And if ever there were a Conclave full of turbulency, contentions, danger and difficulty, fit to beget a Schism amongst us, certainly this was the most ter­rible and dangerous; in which every thing had gone topsie turvy, had not the Divine Providence interposed his right hand, and made use of his Omnipotency in the composure of all discords, and [Page 2] uniting in a happy Concord those dispositions that were before at variance: not alone to the amazement of those that saw it, and were active in it; but to them also that have heard, or shall here­after hear of it. Pope Innocent the Ninth, a man of innocent life, and eminent virtue, having attained the Popedom at the age of 73 years, did surrender his soul unto the Sovereign Creator, within the space of two months, to the great grief of all Rome, being deprived of that great hope she had conceived of his equity and prudence, of which virtues (to the alacreous comfort of the Inha­bitants of Rome) he had begun an happy demonstration; insomuch that it seemed unto them that God had only shewed, and not be­stowed him upon them. From hence there being a necessity to Elect a Successor unto him, the Cardinals were all repleat with various thoughts, and perplexed with disturbant cares; not only because there was not in the world a more important business, but also because they were extasied with distractions amongst themselves, Every one intending to procure an Election according to his own Inclination and Interest. But it was a rare and ex­emplary thing, that amongst so many divisions, they should all, or the most part, aim at the Election of the ablest and most honest person: As an evidence that all Contrarieties must sub­scribe to honesty and virtue. And if at that time we have seen one that was the most worthy of the Popedom (as we may say) and yet to see him eclips'd, we cannot but discern some occult and Divine Providence, to which we must submit our best in­deavours.

The Cardinals were divided into three Factions: the first was of Spain under the Conduct of Madruzzo, with whom also did side divers others that were either that Kings Subjects, Pen­sioners, Kinsmen, or Dependents. The intent of the King (as his Ministers did avouch) was very good, who was onely desi­rous of a Pope that was honest and zealous for the glory of God: As also (it seemed) that all other Princes did desire it. But in truth, to examine their Proceedings more narrowly, the scope of every ones intent was to desire one to whom he himself had the nearest relation. In which deceit the Royal [Page 3] Ministers, resolving to approve themselves solicitous and expert in managing their Masters affairs, concluded that no other should be Pope than one of these, that is, Columna, Como, Palioto, Santa Savarina, and Madruzzo. And although outwardly they did most appear for Santa Savarina, yet it was easily discernable, that they were inwardly more inclinable to Madruzzo; as con­ceiving him the man that they had more trust in, hiding ne­vertheless with great subtilty this their secret intention: But that you may the better understand how things were at that time, you shall know, that the Cardinals of the Spanish faction (were it either diffidency, or jealousie, or any other passion) were ex­treamly divided amongst themselves, one standing for one Pope, and a second for another; in which division there were some that did not only refuse all the prenominated persons, but would have introduced others in whom the King could not confide; as is apparent by examination of the effects, without any further search into the particulars at the present. There were some that were of an opinion, that that faction had at that time another misfortune and impediment, which is, that Madruzzo being the Pilot of that Ship, and aspiring to the Popedom, it may be more by the perswasion of others than any inclination of his own, did con­ceal his thoughts with a great deal of subtilty; and did not indeavour the promotion of others, but did rather craftily pre­vent them, that thereby the way of exaltation may be the more facile and open unto him; although others say, that these were but false rumours and suspitions.

The second Faction was that of Montalto, chief of the Creatures of Sextus the fifth, joyned with the Spaniards, Venetians, and Tus­cans, with a resolute mind to make Santa Savarina Pope, which was his Resolution at the former Conclave, (as it is manifestly appa­rent) for, at which time there was a talk of the Adoration of Santi­quatro, he then asking Mendoza, who was then the head of the Spanish Faction, Which would be more acceptable to the King, of Santiquatro or Santa Savarina? Mendoza wittily answered him, That they were both fair in respect of the King. And Montalto de­manding again, Which of the two would be more willingly received by [Page 4] the King? Mendoza immediately answered him, That they stood both equal in the Kings estimation: Insomuch that all Scruple being removed from Montalto, he went and did unanimously concur with the rest in the Adoration of Santiquatro. Here many will won­der at the Alteration of Montalto, who was in a possibility of ma­king Santa Savarina Pope, when Gregory the fourteenth was elected, and have engaged Spain, Tuscany, and divers other Creatures unto him, yet would never apply himself to his Favour, shewing that he did abhor his Nature and Severity, and fear that his Ex­altation would be his Depression, and that the same thing should displease him now, which before was so plausible to him; and that he would now so much confide in him, whom he had so much distru­sted before. But Miracles must be Passive, where the Hand of God is Active, who is the sole Director of all humane Affairs, and his Works above the Search or Apprehension of Mans Capacity: Yet there have not been wanting acute and subtile Wits to search out the Cause of this Mutation in Montalto; some are of opinion, that this alteration in Montalto did proceed from this, that he was now better informed of the good D [...]sposition of Santa Savarina than he was before; others attribute it to the great Instance of the great Duke, who desired no other to be Pope than Santa Savarina, assu­ring him, that he being once invested in the Papacy, would assume him as much into his Favour and good Esteem, as ever he was in the opinion of Sextus. Others report, that he did it to ingra­tiate himself with Spain, who desired likewise that he should be Pope, Mentalto being resolved altogether to depend upon the Protection of that Crown, having considered that he could not make choice of a more secure Protection than this for himself and Family. Others did conceive it did proceed from the Fear that Montalto did alwaies stand in of Paliotto, doubting that the Spa­niards would set him up again, and pitch upon him or else upon Santa Savarina, or upon Madruzzo or Come, all which he did equally loath, as a sick Man doth bitter things. There have been some besides that esteemed this Practice of his to be a Stratagem, that he might by that bait of Santa Savarina invite the Spaniards to confide in him, and to induce them to accept him for one of their Creatures, in case that he should not make any of the other afore­named [Page 5] to be Pope; Montalto intending with that Art to couzen the Art of the Spaniards, seeing that the Report went, that they would joyn with him, with Intention to make use of his favourable Indeavours; but that he should not do the like of theirs unless it were by Constraint; and to make themselves secure by that Union, of those Subjects that were absolutely excluded by them Salviati, Verona, and Mondovi, that none of them might by chance be made Pope against their will. But leaving off these Considerations unto them who are desirous to examine them, we shall see that the In­tention of Montalto is really to make Santa Savarina Pope; and in case he could not accomplish that, then to settle it upon some Creature of his own, aiming chiefly at Aldobrandino, as the more probable man by reason of his good Nature and excellent Virtues; as also because of the prompt Inclination of the whole Colledge expressed to him in former Conclaves, and for the excessive Love he alwaies bare unto him, having alwaies reputed him as his Fa­ther; although with a great Prudence he did strive to conceal that Affection, fearing to give offence unto the rest of his Fa­ction.

The third Faction was that of Sforza the chief of the Gregorians, amongst whom there were excellent Men; but unfortunately they were opposed by the Spaniards, not through any deserts of their own, but because of their particular interest, and reasons of State: from whence Sforza considering all these things, and observing the great difficulties that opposed him, he conceived it altogether impossible to promote any of his Faction to the Papacy; wanting for that present, the favour and assistance of Montalto, with the help whereof he had obtained all his former Victories; he saw that at that time he had not one of his Eaction that had the countenance of Spain for his support, as formerly he had: as Santo Marcello who was after Ʋrban VII. Cremona who was Gregory XIV. and Santo Quatro who was Innocentius VIII. elected one after another with the help of the Nomination and Favour of Spain, and of Montalto: He perceived that at that time the only aim of Spain was to exclude the chief of his Faction; he did consider that in all reason the Colledge should make some [Page 6] equal Dividend of their Favours amongst the other Factions. But the thing that did only disgust him was, that Santa Savarina, a man by him extremely disaffected, was in all probability likely to be preferred, Pope Innocentius being then dead. Montalto, Ma­druzzo, Gaietano, Monti and many others, together with Cessa Catholick Embassador began to practise openly in behalf of Santa Savarina, with such a Fervor, that they publickly said, They had the Papacy in their hands: either it was that they did verily be­lieve it, because of their powerful Faction; or else it was to ter­rifie their Adversaries from attempting to exclude him: which way was more hurtful to the Cause of Santa Savarina, seeing it proved an Irritation and Spur to thrust his Adversaries into De­spair, and so excite them by all possible means to hinder him: from whence it is a thing in this place remarkable that it is more secure to make his way by plausible and smooth Actions, than by violent and thundring, and rather to esteem of his Enemies, than to contenmn them. Therefore Sforza, Altempos, Arragona, Colunna, Alexandrino, Sfondrato, and others of their Adherents, being incensed not only to see so much Favour for Santa Savarina, but also that they would make him Pope in spite of them, made an Union and a League amongst themselves to oppose his Great­ness, giving Assurance to each other by Oath, to resist him to their utmost power, and not to decline that Union upon any Ac­cident whatsoever. And certainly it is a miraculous thing, to con­sider, that they should engage themselves in Opposition to an Oc­casion of such Difficulty that it was almost impossible for them to overcome. Nevertheless guided by the Holy Ghost they did re­solve to attempt it, applying themselves with all Industry against Santa Savarina; and to destroy his Practices they did propound to the Cardinals his extreme Severity, with the Damage and Ruine that must accrew both to the publick and the private, if he were made Pope. After that, they did endeavour to put a diffidence between him and Montalto, and the Faction of Spain and the Florentine, under divers Colours and Arguments: And to dis­swade and take off Montalto from him, they attempted him with Glory and Interest, and to advance one of his Creatures to the Papacy: they did invite Madruzzo likewise with the same Strata­gems [Page 7] and Promises; as also not being wanting to insinuate into the Minds of all his Competitors the Facility they might find in procuring the Papacy for themselves, wherein they would be assi­stant unto them: which Suggestions were very powerful and would have been greedily swallowed by any who had not a more divine Illumination to conclude, the Intention of these combined men was to excite on all sides Confusions, Divisions, and Distra­ctions, to divert and break in some part the Plots and Practices of Santa Savarina. These Contentions were pleasing unto those who out of a self-conceitedness did believe out of these Revolutions to work a way to their own ends: and if any had reason to hope, Madruzzo was not to be debarr'd his share of Expectation; for if Santa Savarina should be once excluded, Montalto (in respect of the King's Favour) would in all probability cast a favourable Aspect towards him: Nevertheless the Practices of Santa Savarina went on with such a heat, as can hardly be imagined, because Montalto was every day more solicitous in it; the great Duke had Intention to no body but to him; the Count of Olivarez Catho­lick Embassador, before he went to be Vice-roy in Sicily, planted a great Foundation for him both in Rome and Spain. A wonder­ful thing that two Princes that were of different Spirits should concur with such earnestness in the same Subject, that it was al­most impossible to discern which was the most forward in his Fa­vours towards him: Neither were these Favours secret but open, neither was it a new thing, but continued a long time, and con­firmed by the greatest desires of these Princes, and the greatest Endeavours of their Ministers. The Cardinals which did exclude Santa Savarina were few, but they were united, they were six­teen in all, viz. Arragona, Colonna, Paleotto, Cemo, Altemps, Canano, Mondovi, Lancidotto, Ascoli, Sforza, Sfondrato, Pala­vicino, Boromeo, Aequaviva, and Platta. On the contrary side he had many Supporters, that you might have seen Kindred at disagreement; Rusticuccio was favourable unto him, Alexandrino Opponent, the Young Colonna did adhere unto him, the Old did abhor him. There were also some of the Factions that were dis­sonant from their Heads; Farnezi a Creature of Sfondrato voted for him, and Sfondrato his Chief excluded him; on the other side, [Page 8] Ascoli and Baremeo Creatures of Montalto did disagree from the same Montalto. It is said that Ascoli did it to please Alexandrino, who was Author of his Greatness, and Boromeo to please Altempos, who was his Kinsman and Benefactor. It is said that Sfondrato made himself one of the Heads of the Exclusion for many Causes, but chiefly to hinder the Increase of Gaiatano's Fortune, knowing how much he was in Favour with Santa Savarina. The while these Practices were managing in this manner with so many Fa­vours and Helps that there was a general Voice in Rome, that without doubt he should be Pope; some intimate Friends of Sfon­drato spake to him in this manner.

My Lord, Out of the Services which we have devoted unto you, and for the Honour and Happiness of your self and Family, we de­sire you to hearken with an impartial Ear to what we shall say unto you. In making your self the Head of the Exclusion of Santa Savarina, you expose your self to an app [...]rent Danger of Ruine. The Exclusion of it self is most odious and difficult. Do you not hear the publick Voice of Rome, That Santa Savarina is Pope? Who can resist against so many Assistants, as he hath, from Spain, from Montalto, from the Florentines and Venetians? Do not you see that you oppose that King, on whom he and the Duke his Brother chiefly depend? Do not you see that you displease the greatest part of the Sacred Colledge that desires him? Do you not see that this is against the holy Will of God, who hath decreed him to be Pope, for some great Mystery and some remark­able Benefit of his Holy Church? All the rest that are combined in this Exclusion are engaged by their Interest, Emulation, Contention, or Hatred, all which may be in some degree excusable; but you ha­ving none of these Motives, the greater will be his Offence he shall re­ceive from you, that if by chance your Lordship have received any mis­information against him, be not too credulous; for many times there are Spirits that under the colour of Zeal do sow Seditious Tares to raise Discords amongst the good, and to hinder all worthy persons of the ho­nour they do deserve. To conclude, if you be pleased to consider the troubles that may ensue that Action, imagine that Santa Savarina be Pope already: what displeasure and grudge will he have in his heart for opposing him? And consider that in your adversity and affliction you shall find very few that will be any way assistant unto you. Do you not know [Page 9] that a wise man doth not consider the beginning but the end of things? Consider that it is now in your power to make him Pope, and altogether to save the honour of those that exclude him, and to make unto your self and the rest of the Excludents an immortal Friend of Santa Savarina. If the greatness and fortitude of your Soul, my Lord, shall accuse us of pusillanimity or fear, at last you will not deny that in things of a high concernment, it is requisite to have a faithful counsel, and mature advice. Therefore we wish you to take your recourse unto God, that he may direct you in a better course, and to accept of our advertisements, with as benigne a construction as our hearts did dictate to our Tongues in the de­livery.

Sfondrato stood attentively to hear them, and then gave them this answer: In truth you could not give me a greater or more pregnant te­stimony of your love unto me, than to discover the care you have of my proceedings both in honour and safety. Thus have you exprest your selves as faithful and loving friends, which I will keep always dear in my memory, and shall endeavour to merit this your favour with the re­turn of my Respect, and the assistance of my ablest Fortunes. But be certain that in this business of the Election of a Pope, neither Hatred, nor Respect, nor Suspicion, nor Prayers shall withdraw me from the Ob­ligation and Oath which I have made to God and his Holy Church, to prefer always his Service before all Interest, and all humane Reasons. And let any man say what he please, if the Holy Ghost doth inspire me to give my Vote to Santa Savarina, I will give it him readily: And so do you pray to God for me, to direct me what is best, and dismiss all fear from you; for where it shall please the Holy Ghost to lead, there is no danger to follow. The days appointed for the Funerals being expired, and the Mass of the Holy Ghost having been Celebrated in St. Peters Church, and the Oration de summo Pontifice eligendo having been made by the Bishop of Trasie; upon the 10th. of January, 1592. the Cardinals went in a Procession from St. Peters to the Conclave, with the Singing men before them, singing Veni Creator Spiritus: the Cardinals were all in number 52, the which being entred the Paulina, they made first devout Prayers, and the Singing men being gone, they did remain in the Conclave in their little Cells: others went to their Palace to Dinner. That day was laborious and tedious, because of the great multitudes of people that did come to visit their Lordships. [Page 10] And amongst others, Santa Savarina was very much streightned, be­cause of the publick Voice and Fame that was dispersed, that the next morning he should be made Pope; it being an antient custom, that in the times of prosperity every one sheweth himself a most rea­dy Friend. The Ambassadours of Princes did also sweat in their Vi­sits and Solicitations of their Masters several intentions. The Duke of Cessa Ambassadour of Spain did stay there till eight of the Clock, which long staying did administer cause of divers suspicions; some verily believed it was to confirm his Solicitation in favour of Santa Sa­varina; others did more discreetly conjecture that it was only done to passover that night without doing any thing; removing with that de­laying of time the thought, and the intention that Mantalto and his party had that night to carry him unto the Adoration; it being the opi­nion of the most Judicious, that in that first ardour or heat, and dark­ness and confusion, they would without doubt have made him Pope: from whence it came, that by the long staying of the Catholick Am­bassador the party of Santa Savarina missed the opportunity of so fair an occasion: at last the Ambassadour being gone, Montalto being weary of that inconvenience, and desirous to lead Santa Savarina to the Adoration, was very earnest and importunate to have Madruzzo with the same promptitude to go with him to put it in execution.

It is said that Madruzzo and Spinola, who did govern the Faction of Spain, did give counsel to Montalto, that it was not fit to attempt the Adoration, unless they were afresh assured of the Votes, the will of man being mutable in the revolution of one hour, saying, That it was much better to defer it till the morning, and rather go securely, than in precipitating of the business in so short a time, which was against the honour of the promoted and the promotors: but the event proved, that this Counsel was prejudicious, and that it is not proper to retard execution after a mature deliberation: as it was done in this case. Montalto being unwilling to disapprove of the Counsel of Ma­druzzo, did protract it till the next morning, and in the mean time was not idle, but intentive to continue his solicitation; reviewing and comforting his party, and others that had promised him: he went to rest, but great thoughts being active with him, made him arise before it were day, and prosecute his solicitation to the rest. Ma­druzzo being unwilling to seem backward in the business, did call to­gether [Page 11] all the Cardinals of the Faction of Venice and Florence, and went with them to the Chamber of Santa Savarina, who at that time was in Prayer: the Cardinals, amongst which was Ascanio Colonna did salute him, and honour him as Pope, and took him from his Chamber, conducting him to the Chappel of Paulina to worship him; being encountred by Montalto with a great deal of joy, as one that did hope every hour to accomplish what he desired to bring to pass. It was a pretty thing to observe how those that did follow, did bustle to get before him to be taken notice of, and to express their alacrity to see his Exaltation.

Being come into the Chappel, it was remembred that they should send for Giesualdo the Dean of the Cardinals, to give the greater coun­tenance and authority to his Adoration; who though a little late came with a face full of Joy, thinking that Santa Savarina with the assi­stance of his Adherents would have overcome all opposition. Now as careful and laborious as these parties were to promote the Adoration, no less active were the Excludents to hinder it. And although they knew they were not a competent number to make good the exclusion, yet they were not daunted continually to cry Dominus providebit.

And having no time to make a Congregation as they did design, doubting that while they were making of it, and consulting what they should do, the contrary Faction should establish him Pope be­fore their face. Nevertheless in that shortness of time they did give such orders as they thought best for to resist their first attempt, which to be short were these, that none of them should enter into the Pauli­na for fear he should be unadvisedly constrained to do what he would not willingly have done, but that they should all keep themselves in the Chappel of Sextus, or in the Hall; that as they were divided from the others in will, they should be also separated in place: after that every one of them should do his uttermost endeavour with his Friends and Kindred, to withdraw or seduce one at the least from the other Party, seeing that one could either give or take the Papacy: And if they could not procure one Vote, they should at least impetrate that they could not give it that morning.

Arragona, Colonna, and Altempos being sick of the Gout, caused themselves to be carried into the Hall, hoping thereby their presence and authority to retract some one from giving their Vote. Sforza, [Page 12] Sfondrato, Boromeo, and Aquaviva, valorous and generous Cardinals were attentive with zeal to the solicitation; one interceding with one, and the second conjuring another: Insomuch that amongst the Car­dinals of both Factions, there were many contrary conflicts, every one seeking to draw another to his side. Alexandrino was invited to enter into the Paulina, who did not refuse, but did first desire to say his Office and Prayers. Rusticuccio was prayed by the Excludents to come into the Chappel of Sextus, where some of his good Friends were attending to speak with him; but he answered that he could not stay because the rest were already gone to make the Pope in the Paulina.

Altempos was sitting in the Hall, with a countenance so rigid and severe, that it seemed to those that came in, do not make Santa Sava­rina Pope. The Cardinal Del Monti hoping to mitigate him, went at his turn with a chearful countenance towards him, and told him, My Lord, you see that we are all here together to worship Santa Savarina for the Pope, and that work, being guided by the Holy Ghost, He de­sired his concurrence to it, and that all the honour and merit of so great an action should be attributed to himself alone.

Altempos who could not hear a harsher note than this, turned unto him with a distasteful aspect, and with a voice so sharp and loud, that it made every man there to take especial notice of it: and said unto him, I have no need at all of your counsel, Cardinal Del Monti, go you if you list, and worship the Pope of the Devil. Which words coming forth of his mouth with such fury, did strike them all with fear and scandal.

Santa Savarina having been conducted into the Chappel, and all the Cardinals in a due preparation to worship him, Sforza, Sfondra­to, Boremeo, and Aquaviva stood before the door to see and observe what they were doing within, as also to distract and disturb their minds: neither were they frustrated in their expectation, because there arose no small fluctuation and confusion amongst them, arising from the diversity of their interlocution, and there going to and fro in a perpetual motion: which confusion being observed by the supporters of Santa Savarina to be prejudicial to their proceedings, they endea­voured to appease those confusions, saying, That this was no time of Disputation and Discussion, but of Adoration, seeing they were all as­sembled to make so sanctified an Election. Then Giesualdo as Dean, [Page 13] with a great deal of zeal rose up and said unto Santa Savarina, That it was convenient for him to take notice, that in all Conclaves it was usual to have Emulations, and Contentions; because humanity was ambitious of honour and priority: therefore that there might be a placid progress in every respect, he both requested and exhorted him to forgive his oppo­nents. To which the other courteously replyed, That notwithstanding the opposition of others he was not moved in himself: Therefore he did forgive them all; promising that he would be always respect [...]ve and favour­able unto them. La Rovere being not yet come into the Chappel, Mon­talto and Mattei went to his Chamber to fetch him, where they found Sfondrato and Boromeo, who were disswading him to side with Santa Savarina, representing unto him his own honour and greatness. And that if he did give his Vote to another, he deprived himself of his own fortune, and his friends of the opportunity and desire they had to make him Pope: which occasion being once omitted, would never be revokable: Exhorting him not to despise their counsel, nor his good fortune, remembring that Charity begins at home, and that Montalto did him a great deal of wrong, proposing Santa Savarina unto him who was a creature of another Faction, he being created Cardinal by La Rovere his Uncle Pope Sextus.

On the other side Montalto was earnestly solicitous with him to be faithful to his promise, and to shew himself courteous in continuing the respects of so many eminent Cardinals. To conclude, not to ble­mish his own fortune, in refusing those offers that Montalto had made unto him, to render him gracious in the sight of Santa Savarina; This good Lord being distracted by the diversity of these Opinions and Counsels, resolved at last as an affable and generous man, to pre­fer the advice and request of Montalto to his own honour and fortune: And therefore with the assistance of the other two Cardinals, in put­ting on his Robes; he went to pass his Vote for Santa Savarina; and passing through the Hall where Altempos was still sitting in his Chair, Altempos looking with a rigid countenance upon him and the other two Cardinals, one each hand of him, could not forbear virulent lan­guage against the reverend old man. These being all come into the Chappel, the supporters of Santa Savarina began afresh to prosecute his Adoration: on the other side Sforza and Aquaviva began with a loud voice, and a great deal of atrogance to cry out, that they neither [Page 14] ought, nor could proceed any farther, without calling the Votes unto a number, saying, That they were certain that there was not a com­petent number to complete the Adoration: And if they did proceed in the Election contrary to the accustomed manner, they would pro­test the nullity and invalidity of the same: which protestations did produce a greater murmur and confusion in the Chappel; some say­ing that there was no notice to be taken of such protestations, they not being valuable, and only done to prevent the Adoration: and so much the rather, because it was not usual to reckon the Vote, but only after the Adoration. Others did affirm it to be requisite to reckon all the Votes, whereby all objections and oppositions might be taken off. In that ambiguity and irresolution the Dean said, That things may be done Canonically, and with the Holy Peace of God, and to remove all scruples that might be objected against the Election, it would be a thing worthy and necessary to take the number of the Votes. And himself at that instant went about to take an account of them, begin­ning with those that were next unto him; shewing by the hand, and nominating with the voice, My Lord such a one, one; my Lord such a one, two; my Lord such a one, three; and my Lord such a one, four. And upon that number of four, staying, and looking back, he complained of the great noise that was in the Chappel, seeing that not only the Cardinals were not sitting, but going to and fro confu­s [...]dly: and after a little while he began to reckon them afresh, saying, one, two, three, four; and being interrupted again, upon the same number he stood, complaining, and intreating the Cardinals to keep their places, and be silent, saying, it was impossible to reckon them in such a confusion. To conclude, it was a miraculous thing, that endea­vouring to number them over and over, he could not get beyond the the number of four.

The supporters of Santa Savarina did protest and assure the Dean that they were a perfect and competent number; and in the mean time some of them did offer to go to the Adoration. The Dean said, Soft­ly my Lords, let us do our things well and Canonically, it belongs to me to be the first, and I do wish it as zealously as any man; but it is requisite that all things should be done according to Custom. Those within seeing that such impediments and confusions did proceed from the Exclu­dents who were at the Chappel door, perturbating their Affairs, [Page 15] said, that it was therefore necessary that the door should be shut. But Sforza and Aquaviva opposed themselves against it, saying, That the Chappel door ought to stand open, that every one might have free in­gress and egress at his pleasure, which was spoken by them as knowing which of them were resolved to come out. Those within did reply that no body was held by force in the Chappel, that every one that was there was free in his Election, and therefore advised every one that was without to enter joyfully, and so unanimously concur to Elect a Pope; protesting that other ways they would make him themselves: Adding, that if they thought by their objections to propagate a Schism, they were extreamly mistaken, because God Almighty would not permit it; and they were of themselves a competent number to make an Election and Adoration. Those without answered, Make a Pope according to your own humour, and we will come and Worship him in St. Peters.

In this confusion there was order given to the Secretaries of the Col­ledge, and to the Masters of the Ceremonies, to write out the names of all the Cardinals; which going round about, and nominating, and writing faithfully, were nevertheless mistaken amongst themselves. And it was observed for a strange thing, that Cardinal Cuzano, a man of a noble presence, of a great body, and greater virtue and goodness, was for all that overseen by them; or if he were seen, was left out at already written; of which error, taking at last notice, to rectifie that error, they began with a loud voice to call my Lord Cuzano, who an­swering, said, Here I am, who enquires for me? Some Cardinals did also endeavour to take the number of their names, and the business was the more confounded, one reckoning on the one side, and one on the other; one finding more, and the other less; so that it became the more intricate, by the reason that it passed through so many seve­ral hands; others with a quicker eye had reckoned them, and found them to be a just number, but did not publish it, leaving the care of it to those whom it did concern. It is certain that in the Paulina there were 36 Votes, and of two and fifty Cardinals which were in the Con­clave, there was not only two parts of three, which is absolutely neces­sary, but one Vote more; which the Excludents perceiving, and that they were not sufficient to maintain the exclusion, not knowing which way to turn themselves, and to procure any remedy, they found [Page 16] themselves in a grand perplexity; being constrained to adhere to or con­tradict Santa Savarina, both which were prejudicial to their former design: some of them being of opinion that there was both more ho­nour and safety, by the concurrence of their Votes with the rest for Santa Savarina, thereby the more to oblige him, than by opposition to lose on all sides. It is reported that Sforza and Sfondrato, being as it were deprived of all hopes, called for their Rochets to go into the Chappel, to follow there the will of God, and to have the honour al­so to have made a Pope. But Aquaviva, being a man of an invinci­ble and indefatigable spirit in all occasions, sent the Auditor his Con­clavista into the Paulina, to bring him the just number of the Cardi­nals that were there; who returned with this answer, that there were but four and thirty: but the Cardinal thinking they were more, and that he had mistaken himself, he sent him back again, to tell them over again, which he did with the utmost of his care, aud brought him word that they were no more than 34; although in truth they were 36: yet this did not proceed either from malice or deceit, but from mistake. And upon this new relation he did animate Sforza, and Sfondrato, assuring them that the Includents of Santa Savarina were but 34. Adding, that although they had been 35, they could not complete the Adoration, because Santa Savarina could not adore himself. Then the Excludents went with new acclamations to the Chappel door, calling with a loud voice the Dean; who not hearing, or not willing to hear, they were very attentive, and did with wonderful dexterity endeavour to procrastinate the business. They did intreat the Cardinals that were next them to call the Dean, who told them that they might come themselves into the Chappel, and speak with him; thinking by that bait to have drawn them into the Chappel, which would have been held as an argument of their concurrence in the Election, But they perceiving their subtilty, would not come in, but called for Farnezi, who at the last came to demand what they would have? Then they assaulted him with violent importunities that he would retire with them, but all was in vain; he answering them like a discreet and prudent Cardinal, That in such an action he was resolved to follow the Divine Inspiration, knowing that with it there could be no digression. And having said thus, he returned in­to the Chappel without expecting any reply.

[Page 17] The old Colonna being extreamly afraid that Santa Savarina should be Pope, did send oftentimes Gerlinzoni his Conclavista to tell Ascanio Collonna that he should come out of the Chappel, and that he should not stay there to see his own ruine: But seeing that the other would not stir, and his fear still increasing, he sent him at length a note under his own hand, intimating unto him his promise, that at any time when he could invest him in, or deprive him of the Papacy, he would decline his Vote from Santa Savarina; as now he had an opportunity: And that he would not at the request or perswasion of any other be the Confusion of himself, his whole Family, and many others of his best Friends.

Ascanio having received the Note, and having meditated a long time on it, whether he should declare himself for Santa Savarina or not, finding reasons and contrarieties on all sides; at last discerning that it lay in his power to make or not to make him Pope, did resolve (as he said) being inspired of God, to retire himself: And in the going out of the Chappel, received a double violence, because those within held him back, and those without pull'd him forwards. In­somuch that his Rochet was torn: And not being content to go out only, did also say that Ascanio Colonna would not have Santa Sava­rina to be Pope, because he was not appointed of God. When the old Colonna saw him out of the Chappel, and near unto him, he kissed him on the forehead, saying, O my dear Son, O thou honour and repu­tation of the Family of the Collona's, be thou blessed for ever. All the rest of the Excludents did imbrace him, and collaud him for so brave an action; thinking themselves at that time quite exempt from all fear or jealousies. If the retreat of Colonna was so acceptable to the Ex­cludents, certainly it was to the Includents as disagreeable: By reason that by the privation of that Vote, they were incapable to make the Adoration. And knowing that this disaster did happen because the Chappel door being open, the Excludents took advantage to interrupt their proceedings. And that the example of Colonna his exition might not be prevalent with any other, the door was presently shut, which raised new fears in the Excludents; doubting that remaining in the Paulina with 35, they might with a publick Scrutinium proceed to the Electi­on of him, whom they had so much aimed at; who although by way of Adoration he could not adore himself, yet by way of Election [Page 18] he might Elect himself: and therefore stood all amazed and astonish­ed. Altempos being without fear, and full of courage, turned himself to the young Cardinals, and said, Be not afraid my Lords, knock, bounce, break the door in pieces. Whereupon Sforza, Aquaviva, Sfon­drato, and Boromeo began to storm, and make such a noise and cla­mour, that to prevent such an inconvenience they opened the door again. Then Sforza and Aquaviva began afresh to protest the nul­lity and invalidity of their proceedings, if the door were not left open; since that by shutting the door they kept by violence those Cardinals that were within. Here I cannot pretermit the rare example of Santa Savarina, his great humility and constancy; who, seeing in that ho­ly action so many great and dangerous storms arising, said openly, If for my sake such perturbations and rumours do happen, I pray your Lord [...]hips let the door be opened, that I may be gone, and so these discords and storms may be appeased: which was an evident testimony that there was in him no spirit of Ambition. His supporters were still very im­portunate to proceed to the Election. And the Dean began to say, Let [...] g [...]ven in our occasions with a sanctified quietness. Exhorting them before any further progress be made therein to make a Reconciliation with the Excludents, and to invite them to come willingly to the Ado­ration; hoping that God would move them to it. And to that pur­pose he nominated Madruzzo, offering himself to go along with him, which motion was approved: they went and instantly intreated their Adversaries from henceforth to put off all discontent in a busi­ness of so high a consequence as the Election of the Vicar of Jesus Christ: and that they would come chearfully, because Santa Savarina had forgiven whatsoever was past, and would prove a Father and Be­nefactor unto them all: and that they should make a Pope who would be a prop and honour unto the Catholick Church; Certifying them that they had proceeded so far in it, that without their assistance they had made him Pope: and that they would rather resolve to come voluntarily than by violence. The Excludents did answer, That knowing the most holy mind of the sacred Colledge, they were certain that their Lordships would not wonder that not one of them would change his mind, because it was not any hate that they did bear unto Santa Savarina, but that they did nothing but by holy Inspiration; confiding that they should be not only excusable, but commendable for it; seeing chiefly that [Page 19] there were many others in the sacred Colledge, for the Election of whom they would voluntarily concur. It is said, that Sfondrato did enlarge himself so far to Madruzzo, as to tell him, That although he did con­tradict the Election of Santa Savarina who was nominated by the King; nevertheless he was confident that his Majesty as a good and Catholick Prince would not take it ill, and would not esteem him the less his Servant for all that: and that Madruzzo as a good and discreet Nobleman did not contradict him. There wanted not opinions that the sending this Embassage was prudently done, but that there was a mistake in the Election of the Embassadours, they being persons to be suspected that they were not well inclined to the Exaltation of Santa Savarina.

The Embassage of Giesualdo and Madruzzo proving fruitless, and returning back into the Chappel, they began to consult what they should do to proceed to the Election: some did say that they could not make the Adoration, because they were not in all above 35, and that Santa Savarina being not capable of adoring himself, the Ado­ration would prove imperfect: Others said that there was no better or securer way of proceeding than by the Scrutinium, by which Santa Savarina might Elect himself, and so the Election be made valid and perfect, seeing that out of 52, 35 was a complete number. That opinion was accepted generally; and therefore it was ordained that Mass should be celebrated, and that the Cardinals should receive the Communion according to custom. The Dean, to whom it did be­long that morning to perform those Holy Mysteries, did withdraw himself, and went to his hours of Prayer, and Confession: all which things did take a great deal of time. In the mean time order was given to the Excludents, that they should come to Mass, and to receive the Communion, and that they should be assistant to the general Scruti­nium, according to the antient custom; who did answer, That they did wonder that those Holy Rites were not performed before, as by the Bull it is commanded: Therefore they were also resolved to hear Mass, and re­ceive the Communion in the Chappel of Sextus, as they did by the hand of Sfondrato, refusing in any manner to joyn with the rest, s [...]aring that un­advisedly they might fall into some act which might be prejudicial unto them. At length the Dean having said Mass, and celebrated the Com­munion in the Paulina, himself, Sans, and Montalto as chief of the Orders went to fetch the Votes of the Excludents, who to secure them­selves [Page 20] of any suspicion and stratagem; as also to hear how things went and to resist them if need were, They sent Sforza and Aquaviva to be present at the Scrutinium: before whose coming the Dean said unto Santa Savarina, That out of his great zeal and piety he should do well to forgive all them that had been opponent against his Exaltation: who answered, That the first thing he learned in his infancy, in the Rules of Christianity, was to forgive injuries, and therefore he did again with all his heart forgive all, and would at any time give them all possible satis­faction. Verona being a good and zealous Cardinal, did beseech him besides that he would not take exceptions against Boromeo for any thing he had done in this business, because it did not proceed from any ill in­tention, but only to comply with Altempos. Santa Savarina did an­swer and say, That he always loved him, and that he would love him af­terwards as his own Son, because he did so neerly resemble that great Car­dinal Boromeo, who was the greatest Light, and rarest president of Piety that was in the Church of God for many years. Whereupon Verona be­ing overcome with this mildness, asked what name his Holiness would be pleased to assume? who answered, Clement. And Verona said that the assumpsion of that name was very proportionable to the benignity and clemency of his mind.

It was reported that Gaetano went to the Chamber of Canano, where he lay sick of the Gout; intreating him to give his consent for Santa Savarina, wherein he should perform as meritorious and heroical an action as could be imagined. Canano excused himself, saying, He was not able to go out of his Cell, being tormented with extremity of pain in his feet, Gaetano said, That that should be supplyed by carrying him in a Chair. Canano answered, That the pain lay in one of his toes, which he could not stir without a violent disturbance. But Gaetano perceived that Canano his Disease lay more in his head than in his heel, and so un­satisfied, took his leave and left him. Santa Savarina his Conclavista although not prosperous, deserves to be remarkable for his cunning herein, who perceiving a great probability of Santa Savarina his be­ing Pope, went to the Chamber of Canano, telling him that he was Elected Pope, and desired to see him: but this craft of his was coun­termined by the subtilty of Canano, who craftily answered him, That he would take seme convenient time to consider of it, yet for all that did not stir. It was certainly a miraculous thing, and an evident testi­mony [Page 21] that Santa Savarina was not destined to be Pope; seeing that amongst so many applauses and gratulations, and having that morn­ing been carried from his Chamber by the two chief heads Madruzzo and Montalto, with thirty and odd Cardinals, and conducted into the Paulina to be adored: And having been so long a time saluted and esteemed as Pope, and Cardinal del Monti having gone out of the Chappel to give notice to all the several Conclavista's to break open the doors and walls of the Conclave, because Santa Savarina was made Pope; yet for all these tokens and advices, not one of the Conclavista's would stir, or pack up any Cloaths, as is usually done in such acti­ons to prevent the plundering of the Souldiers in the Chambers of the Cardinals, when they come into the Conclave after the Election of the Pope.

The death of Gonzaga and Mendoza are apparent evidences that he was not like to be Pope, they both being his chief supporters; the former dying few days before the vacancy, the other at the time of their going into the Conclave: and besides the not coming of the Cardinal of Austria from Germany, as was daily expected; for by the assistance of any one of them he would have been Pope. Moreover to observe the incredible constancy and unity of the excludents, and the murmuring they made; protesting that they had rather be exposed to any torment than go to his Adoration.

The Cardinals were yet sitting in the Paulina every one in his place, the Faction of Santa Savarina did urge and propound that the Scru­tinium might be made publickly, because already every Cardinal had published his Vote, and given his consent, having raised him out of his Cell, saluting him Pope, and bringing him into the Paulina to worship him: and that none could retract, neither did the retreat of Colonna any way invalidate his former consent which he had given for so many hours, and by so many signs. Sforza and Aquaviva know­ing that this was the direct and certain way to make him Pope, seeing that none of them durst have denyed their Vote in a publick Scrutini­um, for fear of proving ingrateful and unfaithful in his promises, with all possible ardour did oppose themselves against it, calling that a new and unknown way contradicting all antient and accustomed proceedings, contrary to the Liberties of Cardinals, who in giving their Votes are not to comply with any man, but only to satisfie their [Page 22] own Consciences: therefore that the Scrutinium ought to be made secretly, otherwise they protested the nullity of the Election, calling the masters of the Ceremony as publick persons to take notice of their protestations.

In these new contradictions it was a marvellous thing that 34 Car­dinals that were in the Paulina on the behalf of Santa Savarina, ei­ther by too much confidence of themselves, or rather by a Divine Pro­vidence should subscribe unto two Cardinals in a deliberation wherein did consist the loss or victory of each party: and so much the more, there being no Bull that did prohibit to make the Scrutinium pub­lickly in such a case.

The opinion of making the Scrutinium secretly being prevalent, all fortune presently departed from Santa Savarina, notwithstanding his protestation which he made in these words, Sine tamen praejudicio pri­or is meae Electionis. The Votes that were given on his behalf were 28, with that of Montalto and Pinello 30: insomuch that he wanted 4 Votes, which with his own after would have made 35, which would have been a complete and perfect number to have made his Election in a publick Scrutinium.

His supportors did remain all in confusion, and replete with shame to have been so grosly deluded, and durst neither speak nor lift up their heads; attributing to themselves the fault that the Scrutinium should be made secretly. On the other side the Excludents were over­come with joy for having obtained such a victory, they having been 8 hours in contention about it. Then the Cardinals being weary went to their several Cells to their dinner. Now to give Virtue her due praise, we must not omit that Santa Savarina in that large field of favours and dis-favours shewed always such a composition and moderation of mind, and a spirit so undaunted, magnanimous, and generous, that as he was not puss'd up with any good, so was he not dejected with any adverse fortune; accepting every thing as best for his Salvation. And whereas he went before to the Chappel attended with a great number of Cardinals to be worshipped as Pope, now he returns unto his Cell alone; and that too he found plundered by the servants of the Conclave, who had left him not a bit of bread for his Dinner: Then considering the state that he was in before in the Paulina, and the con­dition he was now in in his naked Cell; it is reported that as being a [Page 23] man he could not choose at one point of time both to admire and laugh at the infallibility of Fortune: yet it did not escape him without some tears. Every one stood amazed how it was possible that Santa Savarina, who went in the morning into the Paulina, Pope, should in a few hours after return a single Cardinal. The opinions amongst them were divers, as also the faults that were alledged; some did attribute it to the errors that were made in the reckoning of the Votes, others to the defect of Zeal or Industry of his supportors, in protracting the Ad­ration, and giving ear and time to the Excludents: For had they pro­ceeded directly to the Adoration, all impediments had been removed▪ by which means the Excludents had received no incouragement, nor young Colonna deserted: Others did impute it to the imperfection of those who failed to give their Votes, in the secret Scrutinium; others to the too great confidence of those who consented that it should be made secret: But howsoever it were we cannot erre in saying it was not the pleasure of God, who ruleth and disposeth all, and to whose blessed will all humane discourses ought to submit in all humility.

For all this Montalto, who of all the rest was the most unsatisfied, did not leave off his Robes, but rather with a greater fervour took the practice again in hand, and with the advice of his Friends did Con­gregate his Faction into the Paulina; intreating them for the love of God, for their own reputations sake, and for the affection they did bear unto him, that they would remain constant in unity of mind for the Election of Santa Savarina to be Pope; because by their constan­cy they would overcome the obstinacy of their enemies: and going about to examine every ones opinion, when it came unto La Rovere his turn, he said unto Montalto, That as he was, and perpetually would re­main his true and obliged servant, so he conceived it to be his duty freely to declare his opinion in this occurrence; the sum of which was, That, they having already done for Santa Savarina, all what was possible to be done, if he should proceed any further on the behalf of that only sub­ject, it might very well be concluded from thence, that he esteemed none of his Creatures besides to be worthy of the Papacy, there being amongst them many deserving and worthy men: upon any of which Creatures of his he was willing to afford his concurring Vote; but in case none of them should stand, that then he might be left at liberty, to dispose his voice upon any other to whom his Conscience should direct him.

[Page 24] Madruzzo and Montalto being now more inflamed than ever to­wards the Election of Santa Savarina, did resolve with all solidity to use their endeavours for his advancement, hoping to overcome the opposition, partly by the coming of the Cardinal of Austria, who was every hour expected; and partly by the confidence they had to procure some of the Excludents to be on their party: as Montalto did endeavour with all manner of subtilty with Paleotto, and Ascoll, re­presenting unto Paleotto the zeal of Santa Savarina, and his goodness: That he had taken him already to himself without any invitation from him the said Montalto; and that now his Lordship declining the as­sistance of Santa Savarina, either by his compliance with others, or for his own advancement, he would thereby detract from his own worth, and hazard the repute he had obtained in the estimation of divers of the other Cardinals. And to Ascoll he said, that there was nothing more detestable in a man, nor inconformable to a Christian, than ingratitude; intimating unto him the obsequious respect he ought to bear to the sacred memory of Sextus the fifth; and consequently to Montalto himself, who was the original occasion of his being created Cardinal. These arguments although powerful, were (as is is reported) by them refuted by many strong arguments: and certainly it was very miraculous to all men, that these two should so strongly oppose these attempts of Montalto; but it was more to be admired, that in that morning, in which the heavens did look so favourably on Santa Sava­rina, that for more than seven hours together he was Pope, if his own party had taken notice thereof: that neither they, nor any of the Ex­cludents for any manner of respect did depart from what they had un­dertaken. After that came into the Conclave the Cardinal of Joyeux, a Frenchman, who presently was assaulted and inticed both by one and the other Faction; the Includents hoping to get the victory by his Vote, and the Excludents the confirmation of their Exclusion: But he resolved to declare himself for neither side. And it is said that it was the advice of Altempos: upon which irresolution the business was left in the Conclave, upon the same terms as they were before.

While the Includents were so earnest about concluding the business for Santa Savarina, and did their uttermost endeavours on his be­half, it was a wonderful thing to observe the indefatigable vigilance and industry that Sforza, Sfondrato, Boromeo, and Aquaviva did per­form [Page 25] in opposition of them; having an eye not only on the power of the adverse party, and to all those great attempts which they made, but also to the danger they were in, and the great doubt they amongst themselves had, that if any one of them should be seduced either by the rediousness in their proceedings, or by hope, or by fear, they should then be all involved in one confusion and shame: Therefore to prevent all dangers, they did confirm amongst themselves their former faithful Union, disposing with admirable order and prudence, the watches that every one of them was to observe both day and night: and to take continual notice of all the Practices, Combinations, Go­ings, Discourses, and all Designs of every Cardinal and Conclavista. It was a strange thing to see how diligently they did attend the actions of the Conclave all day and all night, also with Tapers in their hands; extolling beyond moderation as well the Porters of the adverse party, as they did those of their own: endeavouring to discover by them, what Cardinals were to be there, and what stratagems they had in hand; so great a danger requiring no less diligence. It is said that those young Cardinals at that time tempting Platta, told him, My Lord, it is said that Madruzzo and Montalto are boasting themselves to be secure of your Vote on their behalf; we cannot in truth give credit unto it: and he wisely answering, said, It neither is, nor ever shall be true; I am real, and my life shall fail before my word shall be infringed; and the obligation in which I am bound to my Lord Sfondrato: whereupon they with an open arm embraced him, and kissed him. A little while after the Cardinal La Rovere dyed, a man in truth of great qualities, and upon whom many had fixed their resoluti­ons: But the Divine Providence was pleased to provide a better Crown for him. Aldobrandino was present at his death, who as being the chief Penitentiary, and as one that loved him as tenderly as his own Bro­ther, did perform all kind of pious Offices for him, in putting him in mind of the welfare of his soul, and of his salvation; which death as it was dear unto him, so was it a Memorandum to all the other Cardinals to be prepared for death, especially considering how they were involved in an abundance of troubles and perturbations even in the Conclave it self.

The Excludents perceiving that the design of Santa Savarina was still on foot, and prosecuted with a great deal of ardency, were still [Page 26] dubious, fearing every moment the coming of the Cardinal of Au­stria, and that at the end every thing should fall out contrary to their desires or wishes: whereupon to acquit themselves from that inconve­nience, they became daily solicitors to Montalto to alter his resolutions; desiring him to pitch upon any other of his Creatures, and they would unanimously serve him in the Election. On the other side they attempted Madruzzo with perswasions for him likewise to decline that business, seeing that this Enterprise was desperate; and the more cunningly to invite him, they did promise him their several Votes to Elect him Pope: But he did exhort them to content themselves with Santa Savarina, being a subject of so much desert and vertue, and being desired by so many Princes. And they answered him, that to consider any more of that, were to prolong the time, to waste away the Cardinals, and to ruinate the people and the City, who had spent so much time in Expectation: therefore they did intreat him, that he would conform himself with the Divine Will, and accept of the Grace of God sent unto him, as it was offered by them in a sponta­neous and free will, to imploy all their endeavours for his Lordships greater advancement. Whereupon Madruzzo being assaulted by so ma­ny rational instances, knowing that it was not fit to hold so long in suspension the Conclave, and all Christendom, upon the only expe­ctation of Santa Savarina. And did acquaint Montalto and the rest, that if within 3 days they could not bring their practice to effect, they would then consider of some other subject. In that time every one did their uttermost towards it, and the term being expired with­out seeing any effect produced in the behalf of Santa Savarina, but rather that their party began to decline, those that desired to have Ma­druzzo Pope, thinking to have a great advantage, considering that the Excludents would afford them their Votes, and that they thought to have also those of Montalto, as well for the promise he made to the Duke of Cessa, to concur to it at any time that the occasion should of­fer: as also for the good intention that they had found by discourse with his Creatures towards Madruzzo: That he was always in the good opinion of Montalto, and that they would not fail to the occa­sion. Thereupon Spinola acquainted Montalto that then was the time to advance Madruzzo, seeing that it only lay in him to make him Pope: intimating unto him the goodness and affability of that [Page 27] Lord; The promise that he had made and confirmed many times to the Catholick Ambassadour to help him. The great confidence that in all reason he ought to repose in that Lord, who by all expres;s;ions would acknowledge, what favour he should receive from him. Montalto re­ceiving this motion unexpectedly, neither trusted nor mistrusted Spi­nola, but cunningly gave him good words, and took time to answer, that he might consult with his Creatures, excusing himself that he could not alone compass so great an Enterprize; his Creatures upon the motion being made, for the most part shewed themselves averse un­to it. And some of them, as Morozino, Giustiniano, Camerino, Monte, Fiorenza and others did chearfully undertake his Exclusion: there­fore going back a little while after to give his answer to Spinola, Mon­talto told him, that for his part he would be always ready to be an as­sistant to Madruzzo, but that he could not prevail with his Creatures to condescend unto it, saying, that they would forsake their relation to him. This answer and some other impediments did quite overthrow Madruzzo's hopes, who nevertheless was so wise and so phlegmatick, that dissembling his displeasure he did appear to have been fully satis­fied with Montalto, passing it outwardly very joyfully, and making shew as if he did not aim at all at the Papacy; although many did ad­vise him to break with Montalto, but he wisely would not do it, first to prevent any occasion that the world might take to think him to be ambitious of the Popedom. And secondly, seeing that this thing might prove prejudicial to the King of Spain his affairs, in giving oc­casion to Montalto to make a Pope in those troublesome times that the King could not confide in, and because he would not in any case di­gress from his Majesties Instructions, which were still to preserve uni­ty with Montalto: And that they should not consult of any subject without the advice one of the other, and that they should proceed with all possible speed to the Election of a Pope.

After that they nominated Como and Paleotto, being both men commended by the King, and both worthy and deserving men; al­though they were both unfortunate, through the vain suspicions of the world; from whence it happened that their competition was but of a small continuance; some sparkles of grudging that Montalto and others had kindled against them in some former Conclaves for their particular interests and fears were not yet quite extinct, but both de­served [Page 28] nevertheless great praise, because they did voluntarily submit themselves to the will of God. Many attempts were made after that for the old Colonna, some believing that the thing might be happily compassed, supposing that they had three firm and solid assistants: The first was that of the Excludents, by reason of the obligement between Colonna and them for their adherence. The second was that of Ma­druzzo with the Votes of Spain, Colonna being one nominated by that King. The third was that of Montalto, because of the affinity that was between the houses of Colonna and Peretta; because Colonna was a man full of maturity of years, piety in condition, and solidity in judgment: but when the time came that his assistants should be put to the test, he found that there was such a profundity of consulta­tion amongst them, that he conceived it better to retreat with honour, than to charge on to destruction. Montalto did not shew himself any way backward in it, but was rather zealous in good offices to pro­mote it, complaining yet of some of his own Creatures and others that would not adhere unto him: Therefore it is a general rule, that whosoever puts himself upon imaginary hopes, and not on real assu­rances, most commonly deceiveth himself. It was furthermore dis­coursed both within and without the Conclave, that in these confusi­ons Rusticuccio might have been advanced unto it, being acceptable to Montalto, Spain and other Princes, beloved of the sacred Colledge, ex­perienced in the Affairs of the Papacy, and carrying with him an ap­parency of a short life. But that discourse held not long, their aims being of more eminency.

The Excludents seeing that Madruzzo could not proceed because of the Creatures of Montalto, of the Venetians, and the Tuscanes, op­posing him, and that after Paleotto and Como were rejected by Mon­talto, and that Colonna with so many encouragements could not attain it; and considering by the same reasons that there was no room for Salviati, nor for Verona, nor for Mondovi, they conclude that of ne­cessity it must be given to one of Montalto's Creatures: and whether Madruzzo will or nor, he will be constrained to condescend unto it: therefore being then desirous to put an end to the Conclave, and to free themselves of the fear continually they were in of Santa Savarina, they sent word to Montalto that he would defer it no longer, but would nominate one of his own Creatures, promising him faithfully [Page 29] all their Votes. Therefore Montalto now perceiving that he had the Crown of glory in his hand, at which he had so long time aimed, al­though it was never known that his intention was to make Aldobran­dino Pope, did accept with a great deal of alacrity both their advice and assistance which they offered unto him; telling them openly, that amongst his Creatures Aldobrandino seemed the most competent man for it, for his most worthy qualities, and for the estimation that the sacred Colledge held ever of him for his person and virtue. All of them did unanimously congratulate that Election, and with great promptitude imbrace it, saying, that they were content with it; and gave order that with all industry the design should be so managed, that it might be carried without the opposition of any of the rest of the Cardinals. Montalto did communicate this Election of his with some of his Creatures, who unanimously also did presently agree with all their possible endeavours to confirm it, which gave him the animation thereunto: After that he spake to Madruzzo, telling him that seeing there were so many divisions in the Conclave concerning the subjects that had been before Elected, it was in all probability the way to defer the Election for a long time to the ruine of the people, the scandal of the good, and the hazard of more Cardinals lives. And that therefore if his Lordship would be pleased to concur upon one of his Creatures, he hoped that there would be a short period to so long a labour. And having said thus unto him, propounded Aldobrandino, a person just, and fearing God; who although he were not of that number that were nominated by his King, yet he would be his friend, and would always be graciously protectant of his Majesty, and of all his Estates, knowing him to be the only defensor and supportor of the Catholick Religion: and that being conscious of his integrity and sincere incli­nation to the Kings Service, he himself would be his security.

Madruzzo was nothing troubled with this proposition, but rather seemed willingly to approve it; answering that being not able of him­self to give a final resolution, he demanded some time to communicate it with his friends, to understand their opinion in it: And then recol­lecting himself, he began to consider the circumstances, alleadging for it, or concluding against it: for his refusal he had these Motives; That it was derogatory to the honour of the King his Master, for him to concur in the Election of one that was not nominated by him. [Page 30] That it would conclude him very much to blame to give his Vote to the Election of one to be Pope, who had not only not given any de­monstration of Fidelity to his Masters Service, but might rather be suspected not to be in a condition of neutrality. Besides that, he knew not so distinctly what was the private resolution of Aldobrandino to­wards the world, towards the dependency of Princes, towards his own kindred; whether he were not ambitious to raise them, how he stood inclined: Besides that, being conscious of his former excluding him, and depriving him of the Papacy in the Conclave of Ʋrban VII. when the greatest part of the Cardinals did concur in the Ele­ction of Aldobrandino, and when he was in his Chamber for two hours space ready to be adored as Pope. Contrariwise he had these Motives to accept him, he did consider that the intention of the King was so holy, that although he nominated only some few, yet he did not by that exclude any of the rest that might be conceived fit for it: but only these who for their interest, or their dependence, or for some other lawful cause might be suspected by him: and the Honour and Service of God being the Honour and Service of the King; and that Al­dobrandino had indeed never been opposite, but rather assistant to the Kings designs, as he shewed manifestly in Polonia, when he went Le­gate thither; procuring with all his endeavours the liberty of Duke Maximilian. He considered further, that by the relation of very faithful men as far as he could penetrate, his disposition was altogether affable and meek; neither proud, nor very much addicted to study, devotion, and good works, that he had never in publick or in private preferred France before Spain, or Spain before France: but as an Ecclesiastick man, and a true Column of the Holy Church, had ever cherished the publick good of Christendom in general, the publick peace and quietness, a King in France, most Christian in effect as in Title, the extirpation of Hereticks and all Rebels against the Catholick Religion, the exaltation of the Holy Sea, his Dignity and Authority, having never been interessed or subjected to any Prince or Cardinal: his Conversation having been always with spiritual, grave, and learned men, having banished from his company all men that were deceitful, factious, adulators, murmurators, and the whole croud of vain and ignorant persons, having always in peace and gravity govern­ed his own house, having neither admitted in his Family any seditious [Page 31] humour or quarrelling that were blemished in reputation, nor having ever permitted any of his Servants to domineer in his house, but kept them always attentive to the glory of God, and the service of their Ma­ster, as if his Family had been a Monastery; besides that, although he was known to have two Nephews, one from his Brother, the other from his Sister; nevertheless they were bred to so much humility and civili­ty, that both within the City and abroad they were held as an Orna­ment unto him. It did please Madruzzo also, that Ald [...]brandino had never shewed any hatred or spleen against any of them that had exclu­ded him before, but rather all respect and favour. From all which motives Madruzzo drew this conclusion, that from so good a tree, bad fruit could not proceed; and that he that can well govern his own house, is fit to bear rule in the Church of God. Besides all these considerati­ons, Madruzzo began to be weary, having seen all the hopes or means that could be made either for himself or those that were nominated by the King to be deluded. He saw that to prolong the Conclave any lon­ger, was to irritate and break off with Montalto, and to fall from one evil to a worse. He saw that amongst the Creatures of Montalto none was like to prove so well as this. He saw that in satisfying Mon­talto in this particular, he obliged him much unto himself. He saw that proceeding in the Election of Aldobrandino chearfully and with alacrity, would prove a duplicite ingagement upon him. He saw that the King would approve of so good and zealous a Pastor. Finally, knowing that this Election was given miraculously from God, he re­solved to give his consent to it: And having imparted the same unto his friend [...]he found them as chearful and alacreous as he could wish. Besides that Alessandrino and Razivil a Polonian, did concur to it with a wonderful chearfulness; the first in consideration that Aldo­brandino was the Author of his preferment; the other by reason of that League of Amity wherein he was linked with Aldobrandino at the time of his being Legate in Polonia. This proceeding did continue some two days, by reason there were some of opinion that it would not be attained, he being none of those that had been nominated by the King of Spain: and partly as others said, because Madruzzo would first give an account thereof to the Duke of Cessa to have his approba­tion, who though it was believed that he was of himself prompt enough therein, yet it was thought that Father Toledo was a principal [Page 32] Instrument about him to advise him to it; assuring him that Aldo­brandino would prove a very good Pope, and a true Friend to the King of Spain, in the defence and increase of the Catholick Religion. And it was said also that although Montalto with his Votes, the Exclu­dents, the Venetians, and a part of the Gregorians could procure him the Papacy without the assistance of Madruzzo; yet out of his re­spect to the King he would not do it without the consent of the Duke of Cessa. It was indeed a thing remarkable, that amongst so many evident appearances of his preferment, Aldobrandino did nevertheless as much as in him lay, exclude himself, the heavens being at that time propitious to that sanctified advance, upon the 30. of January 1592. about one of the Clock Montalto did publish in the Conclave Aldo­brandino to be Pope; whereupon Madruzzo, the Excludents, Montalto his Friends, and the Venetians, went unanimously to his Cell, to advertise and congratulate his Holy Election, who neither in face, word, nor gesture gave the least symptome of alteration, which was an evident testimony of his moderation, and that he had no ab­solute aim at the Papacy. Now we may observe for a further Example of astonishment, that it was rather a stupefaction than a rejoycement that he had imposed on him the supremest honour with the greatest burthen in Christendom, which was apparent after his Election; for the Masters of the Ceremonies going to demand by what appellation he would be intituled, and (according to custom) to know if he had admitted his Election to the Papacy? his Holiness kneeling before the Altar to the most Holy Crucifix, with a Flux of tears fr [...] his eyes was not at all attentive to the Masters of the Ceremony; whereupon the Cardinals that were nearest unto him answered, I, I, he is willing to accept of it. And the Masters of the Ceremony replying that it was not judicially satisfactory, unless proceeding from his Holiness own mouth. Then his Holiness deploring with excess of humility said thus, Thou O Lord God, who seest the hearts of all men, and to whom all se­crets are revealed, if the Election that hath been made of me thy most unworthy Vicar, be not to thy Glory and Service, and the salvation of all the faithful: I beseech thee that my tongue adhaereat faucibus meis. If also thou seest that it is advantageous to thy Holy Name, and to thy Holy Church, I upon the confidence of thy assistance expose my self to thy blessed will. His Holiness having in that manner given his consent, [Page 33] he was arrayed in his Pontificalibus; and being sat upon the seat, was adored by all the Cardinals with a general acclamation. Afterwards, the Ceremonies being ended, he was demanded, What appellation he would assume? Clement, he answered. Then was he carried to St. Pe­ters, and was met in the Portal by the Canons and Prelates saluting him with these Holy words, Ecce Sacerdos Magnus, the Te Deum Laudamus following him. As soon as he came into the Church, he performed his Orizons at the Altar of the most Holy Sacrament: and afterwards his Holiness was carried ad limina Apostolorum; where having made his Orizons, he was again set upon his seat, and adored by the Cardinals. In the interim, his Election was divulged all over Rome, whereupon every one came to see him, blessing and praising God for so Holy a Pastor, who being replete with Charity and Alacrity, gave them a general Benediction: and by his Countenance assuring them, that he would afford them Justice, and procure Plenty unto their Bodies, and Salvation unto their Souls. His Holiness being at last conducted to the Vatican, confessed himself to Father Gio Fran­bordine della Valicella his Confessor, and then said Mass, (as he usually did) with great Devotion. It is not to be omitted to declare the words his Holiness spake unto his Confessor, which were, That he desired him to pray unto God, that if such fruits should not proceed from his Papacy as might be advantageable to his Holy Church, that he would be pleased the sooner to deprive him of his life: demonstrating openly, That his desire and aim was not to rule, but to serve his God, and to feed his Flock. This Conclave then which was begun with so many divi­ded wills, contentions, fury and strife, that it was feared it would have proved a Schism, was at last, by the assistance of the Holy Ghost, concluded and terminated into a most holy Peace, and Union; of which always the praise, honour, and glory be ascribed to the Divine Majesty, the giver of all good things.