IT is not my designe to give an accurate account of Donna Olimpia's Life; who in the City of Rome acted a Man in Womans apparel, and in the Church a woman wearing the breeches. [...] would require a Pen, all eyes, to set [...]own the Life of a Lady, who cast her [...]es so universally upon all affairs. To [...]rite the faults whithout mentioning [...]e virtues of a person, who for ten [Page 2] years space had so great a share in the Government of the Church Catholick; is impossible to perform, without the reputation of a Heretick: and to men­tion the virtues only, would be to dip my Pen in the Ink without staining of it. Our Age hath felt too much the smart of the activity of this Lady: So that if a Writer should take never so much pains to seperate the wheat from the chaff, that is, to pick out the good and leave the bad, according to the custom of the present times, when they treat of great persons; the world hat [...] beheld so much chaff before the whea [...] could be discovered, that such a story would win no credit.

I must needs say, it was a very foolish Age, that invented Writing: if it only end were to make false appea [...] true, and true false. Much better ha [...] it been to have left mens manners to b [...] deliver'd down by tradition from eye [...] witnesses, than to such Scribes. Doubt less the world took very ill advic [...] [Page 3] when it subjected the reputation of Mankind to the capricio of a frail pen. And certainly it hath been great inad­vertency in man to let a mischief grow so beyond the cure of Ages.

But why do I thus decry Writing, while I my self pretend to write? Alas! to write what one is an eye-witness of is so natural, as the contrary is estrang­ing the world from it self. Give me leave therefore to say with the Apostle St. John, What we have beheld with our eyes, what we have seen, and our hands have touched: that declare we unto you.

I will write no other thing of Donna Olimpia but what I have seen in her. Her descent I will omit: only that she was born of the Family of Maldachini, which name made but little noise in Rome at that time. However I would ve­ry willingly have spoke of her child­hood and education: but that I saw her marryed before a Virgin. She was born before me: so that I cannot speak of what I have not seen, without break­ing [Page 4] my promise of delivering only what the Theatre of Rome hath represented to my eyes for the space of five and twenty years and upwards. I will but deliver what the common report of those, which knew her in her younger dayes, hath informed me of. That from her very infancy almost she shew­ed an ambition to rule: insomuch as at her childish playes amongst her com­panions, she alone would ever give law to the rest. Thus she grew up, and thus she lived even till she arrived to the years of marriage. It is said, that her Parents, considering the small share they had in Fortunes favour, used all means possible (as it is ordinary in Ita­ly) to make her resolve upon a Mona­stick life. But she, that had more pro­pension to Matrimony, than a Vow, denyed flatly to yield to any such pur­pose.

She was therefore given in marriage to Seignior Panfilio, brother to Gioanne Baptista Panfilio, who came afterwards [Page 5] to be Pope. These Nuptials were ce­lebrated in Rome with satisfaction on both sides, as loving reciprocally. Which kindness produced a numerous off-spring of females, with but one only male, which is Prince Panfilio, who served for the state to his Mothers in­terests. The first Scene that represents it it self (as I may say) in the Tragi-comedy of the Life of Donna Olimpia, is the coolness of affection towards her Husband; which by little begun to di­scover it self, without any grounds the good man could find out for it. Never­theless, how difficult soever it was to the Husband, the Romans easily smoak­ed the cause. Who seeing how fond she was of her Brother-in-law, began to have a general suspicion of her vir­tue; as believing for a certain the times of Herod were revived. Nor may we blame any for thinking amiss of these two; when their actions, ge­stures and behaviour gave so palpable grounds of suspicion.

[Page 6] Donna Olimpia went much oftner in in the Coach with her Brother-in-law, than with her Husband: entertained her self much more in the Closet with the one, then in Bed with the other: and many times the poor Husband knew not where to find either Brother or Wife, that is in plain English, they always went together.

There was but one reason, which qualified this foul suspicion. And that was, divers debated it, nor could imagine, that a Lady as Donna Olimpia who had a body of no ordinary shape, should be in love with the ugliest countenance that ever appeared in hu­mane shape, as it is most certain her Brother-in-law was. Especially since her Husband had something pleasing and comely in him, though not exceed­ing. Whereas this could only give e­vidence how great is the ambition of Women to domineer: which passion blinds them to that degree, they will not only surrender themselves up to Men, but Satyrs.

[Page 7]Seignior Panfilio, the Husband of Donna Olimpia, following the common practice of Italy, did all his business without calling his Wife to counsel. On the other side, the Abbot Panfilio his Brother never entred upon any af­fair publick or private, but first ac­quainted his Sister-in-law with it; whose advice he took his measure by, as from [...]n Oracle: nay often times he went not [...]broad, before he had received her benediction.

Nor is this so wonderful: since the greatest part of the Prelates in Rome [...]ake this course to oblige such Ladies [...]s are ambitiously inclined. And in­deed if they did not do so, they would be as much hated, as they are now be­loved of the Ladies of their relations. However this kind of condescention makes Prelates of Ladies, and Ladies of Prelates, to the no small shame of Rome.

Notwithstanding that which was no great matter for another man, found [Page 8] some difficulty in the person of Abbot Panfilio: who conscious of his unwel­come face to woman-kind, studied to win the love of his Sister-in-law by pre­senting her with the entire dispose of his will. She, who desired nothing more then the exercise of such a power, free­ly bestowed her affections the more to oblige him to an absolute surrender of himself. Thus the more he submitted his will to Donna Olimpia, the more love she heaped upon him. Being step­ped from an Abbot to a Prelate, and advancing daily in Ecclesiastical pre­ferments: Donna Olimpia had still a longer field to exercise her authority in. For she was resolved her Brother-in-law should not do the least matter without her: who most willingly sub­mitted himself to her disposal. Mean­while the Husband dies: by which means she remained not only Mistress of her Brother-in-laws will; but also o [...] all the affairs of the house of Panfilio, which went no farther then the Brother, [Page 9] the Son and two Daughters.

How great the respect was this Bro­ther-in-law had for her, may be judged by a Letter which lit into my hands by accident. It came from Spain, where Seignior Panfilio was Nuntio, directed to Donna Olimpia at Rome, and was this.

An incredible story to one that had [...]ot read it: that a publick Minister [Page 10] should write such fond Letters to a woman, without regard had to Repu­tation, or apprehension how easie it is for Letters to miscarry, as in effect this did. But since he had delivered him­self over as a prey to this Lady; what could he do less?

Indeed this Letter was a great evi­dence of their love, and confirmation to what the speculative people gave out, That Donna Olimpia gave instru­ctions to the Popes Nuntio's. But it will not be out of the way to touch a little upon the Nature of this Lady: before she mount the Vatican, if not with the Miter, at least with the Command.

She was one of few words in the or­dinary company of Ladies: but made it up sufficiently, when she came to dis­course with men. Though this could not be called properly her nature: be­cause she would often say, she had no [...] words to cast away upon a Sex, from which nothing was to be learned worth mentioning. By which you may gather, [Page 11] she forced her Nature to condescend to [...]er Judgement.

Her discourses were alwayes prop­ [...]ed with Reasons of State, and many [...]imes with the addition of some sen­ [...]ence: which made people think she [...]ad studied much, though there was [...]o such thing. She had so happy a me­mory, that with once hearing or read­ [...]ng over she would remember any [...]hing: which made her be thought a [...]ady of great learning. It was very [...]ard for her to submit to the opinion of [...]nother, without offering great vio­ [...]ence to her nature. And it is certain, he had rather perish with her own fan­ [...]y, than live by anothers counsel.

She was covetous to that degree, as [...]he would not so much as hear any body [...]alk of the bounty of others. Nay by [...] certain maxim she held, she made a vertue of that vice, by excusing her [...]varice with this pretence, That Women were made to gather, not to dispence. She often changed her Servants: lest in [Page 12] time they should become too familiar with her conduct. And indeed the Servants commonly mutiny'd before the years end for want of their wages▪ She went seldom or never to Feasts Balls, or other recreations, which the Ladies of Rome use to divert themselve [...] with: lest she should be obliged t [...] make the like. That which gave he the greatest reputation, was her charit [...] to the poor Religious. Though sh [...] did it rather out of vain-glory, tha [...] Religion: She never did an alms, tha [...] she had not first carried in processio [...] round the Palace. And indeed she wa [...] no sooner got into the Vatican unde [...] the protection of Innocent: then alms [...] Religious deeds were laid aside. Whic [...] shews plainly what she did before w [...] feigned. Hence Pasquin made bold [...] say that Donna Olimpia was olim pi [...] nunc impia. She had some goodne [...] heretofore, but now she was good f [...] nothing.

She neglected the education of h [...] [Page 13] [...]hildren, especially of her Son: for [...]ar it might waken his spirits a little, [...] a future disturbance of her absolute [...]ower over the house of Panfilio. A [...]abolical principle which reigns in the [...]arts of almost all the great Ladies. [...]hus Don Camillo grew up in igno­ [...]nce, that he could hardly read at [...]enty years of age. She kept no great [...]ble, and made her Steward bring in [...] Accompts every day to a far­ [...]ing. Complements she would be­ [...]w most liberally, and promise much [...]ore than any one could ask of her: [...]ll knowing that she had the knack of [...]cusing her self, and denying what­ [...]er she had promised, being most ex­ [...]lent and ready at it.

When her Brother-in-law was made [...]rdinal; it was not to be imagined [...]h what joy she received it: promi­ [...]g her self from that moment hopes a higher advance. Panfilio's red Hat [...]de Donna Olimpia grow higher by the [...]d. Her Brother-in-laws Scarlet en­flamed [Page 14] her heart to a more passionat [...] kindness, and so much the more by th [...] death of her Husband, which remove all obstacles from diverting her lov [...] upon any other object. They lived t [...] gether, and ate together for the mo [...] part. Whosoever had any grace [...] demand of Cardinal Panfilio, must hav [...] applyed himself to Donna Olimpia: b [...] he must seek to the Cardinal for a [...] grace from her. When any one ha [...] received a denial from the Cardina [...] they never took it amiss, only it m [...] be said as they went out, Perchance [...] hath not spoke with Donna Olimpia y [...]

Donna Olimpia was she that taug [...] the Cardinal the art of dissimulatio [...] though it be an ancient and one of t [...] most principal customs of the Court of Rome. I my self heard her one d [...] talk in this manner to the Cardinal.

Brother, it is not to be expressed w [...] sparks of joy your Scarlet kindles in [...] heart: far beyond the pleasure you yo [...] self can take in it, who have the k [...] [Page 15] of my affections. It was your merit and not Urban's kindness that made you Car­dinal: who could not refuse the Hat to a Prelat, that so well knows how to serve [...]he Church. Desert may call a man to be Cardinal; but never Pope, which requires [...]ther qualifications. I do not see that [...]hey call men to this eminent degree, who [...]re really good; but such as seem to be so. It is the outward not the inward man, [...]hat makes a Pope. He that will be a Car­dinal must speak with all, and have to do with all: but he that would mount Saint Peter's Chair, must change the Scene, and [...]peak little, and have to do with no body. The Cardinals demur not upon virtue in [...]he election of a Pope: the only virtue at [...]uch a time consists in the pensive looks of [...]me Cardinal. All the Histories teach us, [...]nd the experience of Urban hath made [...]s see, that the Popes change their nature, [...]hich during the time of their Cardina­ [...]te appears to have been in them, and not [...]f them. Nothing now remains to accom­ [...]lish the happiness of the house of Panfilio, [Page 16] and my content; but to see you seated it the throne of the Vatican. That Fortune which hath promoted so many others to such an honour without merit or expectation; may as well advance you, whos [...] worth hath just reason to expect it. Sixtu [...] Quintus, who was a most learned person feigned ignorance all the while he was Cardinal: very well knowing that such a dissembled simplicity had more efficacy t [...] mount the Chair, than a speculative understanding.

To these exhortations she likewise added some more; which to deal clearly, I think not befitting an Ecclesiastical pen to set down; besides, that i [...] would put me upon relating, what saw with my eyes, which God forbid It is sufficient to know the whole design and care of Donna Olimpia was nigh and day to mind the Cardinal of putting on the mask of dissimulation, which she used to call the Porter of the Vatican.

Neither had these remembrance [Page 17] [...]ny ill success with the Cardinal. For [...]hough he was sufficiently ill natured: [...]et was he very simple, and ignorant [...]n many Court Maximes which are [...]eculiar almost to Rome. And there­ [...]ore knowing that the whole design of his Sister-in-law was his advancement, [...]nd having none more intimate to con­ [...]er with, he entertained long confer­ [...]ences with her perpetually till the [...]ext Election, expecting daily, by rea­ [...]n of the great age of Ʋrban, an empty hair.

In order to his success, the good [...]ardinal was become Master at dissimu­ [...]tion in all particulars, but his love his Sister-in-law: in the Congrega­ [...]ons none more un-concerned, in Con­ [...]rsation humble, and in the Church he [...]ted the Devout to a hair; yet all is while it was impossible to conceal [...]s Passion for Donna Olimpia. He loved [...]r and idolized her as well in publick [...] private: to the astonishment of [...]ery body, that a Cardinal, who had [Page 18] his pretences, though remote enough in some share to the next Election should enslave himself so much t [...] the love of a Lady, and his Relation.

But Donna Olimpia had a transcendent talent in the Politicks. She knew at the same time how to be complaisant to her Brother-in-law, and turn his resolutions to her own bent: an [...] yet so neatly, that the generality could find no objection against her. Indeed she understood so well how to hide the power she bore over the Cardinal will, that it was much more easie [...] discover in the Slave then the Mistre [...] She alwayes spoke of her Brother-in-law with great modesty and respect and would sift out with a great deal [...] art the inclinations of the other Cardinals towards hers.

When it came in her way to spe [...] with any of the Spanish faction, [...] would represent the great devotion t [...] Cardinal her Brother-in-law had [...] the Crown of Spain. On the oth [...] [Page 19] side, if she met with any of the French faction, she assured them of the inward affection her Kinsman retained for the French, with which upon occasion he would be more serviceable to them under hand, than others that made shew of open friendship.

Towards the latter end of Ʋrban the 8th. every moment seemed an age to Donna Olimpia. For having with a great deal of secrecy procured one of [...]he most Eminent Astrologers to Calcu­ [...]ate the Nativity of her Cardinal, she [...]ound by his Horoscope, that in the Seventieth year of his Age he was to be promoted to the highest dignity in the Church; whence she concluded infalli­ [...]ly he must be Pope.

Ʋrban dying in the mean time in the year 1643. in the month of May, which was much upon the Seventieth year of [...]he Cardinal: the confusion and distra­ction she found the Court in at that [...]ime fortified her hopes with much more strong assurances.

[Page 20]The Cardinals use not to enter the Conclave upon the death of the Pope, till after ten dayes be passed. In which time they ballance the interests of the several Crowns, with the manners and inclinations of those Cardinals which pretend, or that ordinarly they judge to have some ground of pretention Now, it is, if ever, that the Embassadours demonstrate their zeal in employing all their industry for the service of their Masters. They talk with thi [...] and that man, bespatter with a thousand calumnies those they dislike, extollin [...] the vertues of those they approve with as much partiality. So that the multitude, who esteem by hear-say, set u [...] a new Idol every half hour. They mak [...] more Popes than there are Cardinals and many times the Spaniards decr [...] those of the French faction, and the French those of the Spanish, to that degree; as the poor people cannot fin [...] amongst all the Cardinals one worth their choice. The life and conversatio [...] [Page 21] of Cardinals at such a time is as cheap [...]s Onions in the Market: where you [...]ay see their Eminences stand like so many poor Lambs at Sale. He that is [...]ryed up to day, to morrow is brought [...]s low. In this Corner of Rome is [...]ertainly concluded such a Cardinal shall be Pope; in another that the same shall never be. In an instant it is repor­ [...]ed all over the City, that the Spaniards have carried it: and the next moment here is no such thing. How many [...]opes are made by the people, that either French nor Spaniard ever [...]ought of: and by the French and [...]paniard unknown to the people!

In such a pickle was Rome during the [...]acancy after Ʋrban's death. When [...]onna Olimpia with all the diligence [...]aginable applyed her self to discover [...]he intrigues, combinations and designs [...]f the Cardinals and Embassadours, as [...] the Election of the new Pope. And [...]ough she was naturally covetous: [...]et in this conjuncture spared she no [Page 22] cost in Spies to procure the best information. She had her Emissaries in every part; even to search into the hearts of men, if it were possible. But all in vain. For she could inform her self o [...] nothing more, than that her Brother-in-law was layed aside, as to any hope of the Chair. And it is certain, tha [...] the Cardinals at their first entring into the Conclave, preferred the whole re [...] of the College before Cardinal Pan [...] filio.

One day as the Cardinals were sh [...] up in the Conclave, it was told Donna Olimpia that there was but one on [...] reason that hindred her Kinsman fro [...] being Pope; and that was the ill unde [...] standing he had with the Barbarines to which she presently answered, that be all, this very thing will ma [...] him Pope; since none are more hated this time than the Barbarines.

The Cardinals came into the Co [...] clave with a firm resolution not so muc [...] as to mention Panfilio. Not in consid [...] ration [Page 23] of his little merit. For that is an Objection never takes place in the Conclave, where the Cardinals in no [...]vise suffer goodness to come into the [...]cale. For so he were an Enemy to the French, the Spanish faction would chuse a [...]ury: were he the like to the Spaniard, [...]he French would chuse him, though it were the Devil himself: and for the Cardinal Nephews of the last Pope, who [...]re alwayes upon this occasion most vi­gilant, they would set up Antichrist to [...]e assured of his Friendship.

The night before the Conclave be­gan, Cardinal Panfilio had a long con­ference with his Sister-in-law. What it was I could never learn further, then [...]hat some will have Donna Olimpia to have told him at parting, Perchance I shall see you Pope, but never more Cardi­nal. To which it is said he replyed, Were you but Popess, I would willingly relinquish my claim. There was now six Weeks passed in the Conclave that the Cardinals had not the least thought [Page 24] of Panfilio: nor when they did begin to mention him, was it without Ten thousand difficulties. The Spaniard, who perceived all his creatures layed aside, pressed hotly for the inclusive of Panfilio: but the French instigated by Cardinal Antonio Barbarino made all their endevours to have him excluded▪

There were many reasons why Car­dinal Panfilio was neither desired, no [...] approved of. His Satyrick, Sower▪ Brutish, Saturnal look made him be taken for a contumacious spirit. Which gave some occasion to say, It would no [...] do well to chuse an universal Father (such as in a manner is the Pope) with such a beastly, deformed countenance▪ lest he should fright his Children with his looks from coming near him.

Others accepted against him for hi [...] want of knowledge and learning, having spent all his time in dreaming over the Canon Laws, which he begun to faulter in too. So that he was fancied to prove a Prince not much inclined to [Page 25] favour learning, which is so essential [...]o the good of the Church. Besides his study of the Laws was looked upon as such as would make him sick of all [...]hat were eminent in any other kind. Neither were these Diviners deceived: for during his reign the Church was ser­ [...]ed with ignorant Prelates, and many deserving persons kept out of Bishop­ricks, nay persecuted so far as to be [...]anished Rome.

It was foreseen in him by others (and [...]his indeed had like wholly to have excluded him) that if he were elected, [...]he power would be subjected to the frail disposal of a woman, through those [...]owels of affection he bore to his Kins­woman, who, as I have told you [...]efore, was absolute Mistress of his will. And this Objection lay the har­ [...]er upon him, because all the Cardinals [...]new very well how deep root this [...]ove had taken in his heart; and there­fore a hard matter to take off the [...]mpression, besides the consideration [Page 26] of what a pernicious spirit was Donna Olimpia.

This was the consideration that for­tified Cardinal Antonio and the French faction in their opposition: which they objected as the only motive to exclude him. They pleaded that as the state of affairs went, it was dangerous to give the Hereticks such an occasion o [...] scandal. Who would not fail of a thousand pretences, seeing the Pope resign the whole disposal of his resolu­tions to a woman, to defame the Church with Libels, that should be dispersed about Rome daily under the name of Pasquin. Besides that the passed kindnesses betwixt Panfilio and Donna Olimpia, which hitherto were gone n [...] further than the City of Rome, would be divulged over the whole world, t [...] the no mean scandal of all Christendome.

All this nevertheless helped but [...] delude the Court, and shew the weakness of those that opposed Panfilio. Fo [...] [Page 27] [...]he more Cardinal Antonio strove to [...]rustrate his Election, the more he [...]rognosticated the decree of Fate, which had determined the fortune of [...]ominion in a man of this kidney. Thus [...]nexpected to Rome, in despite of Cardinal Antonio, and the astonishment of those very persons that gave their voices for him, was Panfilio made Pope, taking upon him the name of Innocent.

How Donna Olimpia received this [...]ews, let those judge that have heard [...]alk how predominant the ambition of [...]ule was in her, and the influence she had upon her Brother-in-law.

So highly was she transported with [...]oy, that from fifty yeers, which was her age, she seemed to be restored to five and twenty.

She flung open the gates of her Kins­mans Palace, now Pope, to the people who came to rifle it, with demonstra­tions of great Satisfaction. They say also, that some days before this Election [Page 28] a certain Prelate to curry favour with Donna Olimpia (which he did as well to the relations of all the rest of the Cardinals, that were in election to be Pope) went to advise her, that her Brother-in-law would undoubtedly be Pope; and therefore she would do well to remove the richest furniture from becoming a prey to the people, who are accustomed always at the Ele­ction of a Pope, to rifle the Palace of his Cardinalship: but Donna Olimpia told the good man, That on that condi­tion her Brother-in-law were Pope, she would not sacrifice the Palace, but herself to the people. Indeed so she said, but she did it not. For her avarice prevailed so far with her, that she hid the best goods. So as the people finding no great matter: began from that time to receive ill impressions of the most insatiable avarice of this Lady.

The visits a new Pope used to receive were few, giving audience only to those of his most intimate confede­racy, [Page 29] before he was settled; though from the first hour of Election they have the absolute power: whereas [...]hose to Donna Olimpia were frequent [...]eyond belief. The nobility of Rome [...]ocked to her in Troops, the Embassa­ [...]ours, the Cardinals, and the Ladies: [...]ll which she received with a most ob­ [...]ging countenance at the beginning, [...]ll afterwards, that she begun to find [...]er self fast in the seat, she put on a look [...]hat sower'd all.

The very night Panfilio was chosen, [...]bout two hours after the day was set [...], she went privately to the Popes [...]alace to give him a visit: who recei­ [...]ed her with great demonstrations of [...]ffection, and it was observed in kissing [...]is Feet Donna Olimpia and the Pope [...]oth wept for joy. This Lady enter­ [...]ined here self here till midnight, the [...]ores shut all the while, only that [...]eignior Camillo, her Son, went in and [...]ut several times. By the Popes per­mission she visited all the Chambers, [Page] [Page 30] even to his bed, which she would se [...] whether it was well made or no, givin [...] order for the disposal of other furniture.

Next day, when she was come home she began to take the state of a Princess upon her with all those that cam [...] to visit her. Cardinal Antonio, wh [...] apprehended more than others wha [...] afterwards befell him, shewed th [...] greatest respect and reverence toward her. Insomuch as it was observed whe [...] he complemented her, he often repeate [...] the title of Excellence; besides that h [...] was not with the last that presente [...] both her and her Son. But the goo [...] Lady finding it was now the time t [...] revenge those injuries she had receive from the Barbarines, made no gre [...] return to Cardinal Antonio's civilitie receiving them with a great deal [...] coolness, as probably keeping in min [...] the rumour this Cardinal had set abo [...] the Town concerning her amours wi [...] her Brother-in-law.

[Page 31]This action renders her worthy the [...]itle of treacherous. For when Ʋrban [...]ay a dying, and during the vacancy, both by her self and others she held [...]he Barbarines in hopes with fair pro­mises, that if her Brother-in-law chan­ [...]ed to be Pope, they should not only be confirmed in their present prospe­rity, but advanced. Though it is very true, the Barbarines, well read in the Court dissimulations, gave no great [...]eed to her words, but opposed his Election with all their power. So that Donna Olimpia on the other side per­ceiving their diffidence, resolved to [...]rust them as little.

The first thing Donna Olimpia pro­ [...]ured at Court, was the ruine of the Barbarines. However knowing it would prove no easie matter through the [...]nblameable life of Cardinal Francesco [...]nd the strong interest of Don Tadeo to oppress a family fortified with so im­ [...]nence a treasure as that was; she counselled the Pope only to the destru­ction [Page 32] of Cardinal Antonio, as assuring her self of matter enough to attaque th [...] life of a person so much hated i [...] Rome.

It was reported with a great deal o [...] truth, that the Pope had not persecuted the Cardinal to that degree, had no [...] Donna Olimpia been so frequent in he [...] importunities. Though he hated him for many reasons, particularly for the opposition he made against his Ele­ction: yet was he resolved for all this but to mortifie him a little. But Donna Olimpia pressed still his utter extirpa­tion, that she might get his Abbies and other Revenues into her clutches▪ Which indeed, as to his possessions sh [...] effected, though she missed of his life▪ For the Cardinal being warned of the Popes good intentions, and Donna Olimpia's, fled disguised through Italy into France, scaping narrowly at Savon [...] to be seized Prisoner. And mos [...] assuredly had he then fallen into the Popes hands, he had been tryed for hi [...] [Page 33] life, and executed. But God had mer­ [...]y upon him.

Donna Olimpia was designed imme­ [...]iately to remove into the Vatican, and [...]t up her station next the Pope. Which [...]e had not only yielded to, but sought; [...] Cardinal Panzicolo by force of reason [...]d not laboured to divert both him [...]d her from such thoughts; Repre­ [...]nting it as scandalous not only to [...]ome, but the whole world: as enough [...] confirm the truth of those rumours, [...]hich were as yet doubtful to many. [...]pon this consideration, the Pope [...]ide her keep at home: But withall, [...]ve her leave to come every day (or [...]ght I should say rather; because it [...]s commonly after Sun-set, she went [...]d stayed there till mid-night) into [...] presence, which he never failed of.

This Cardinal Panzicolo was the on­ [...] engine that set the great mass of the [...]pes brains a going after Donna Olim­ [...]. Nay, oftentimes he had greater in­ [...]ence upon the Pope, than Donna [Page 34] Olimpia her self. He had exactly th [...] length of the Pope's foot, and knew how to advise him suitable t [...] his inclinations; which was a great satisfaction and ease to his Holiness, with whom he would confer all day, an [...] sometimes the night too. For this Pop [...] had a laudable custome, never to go t [...] bed till after mid-night. Quite contrar [...] to his Predecessour; who went to [...] Rest presently after the Evening, an [...] got up again at break of day, to dispat [...] the publick Affairs.

The Government of this Pope was little embroyled, while Cardinal Pazicolo lived. For he made it his end [...] vour for the most part to disappoint t [...] Counsels of Donna Olimpia: And she [...] the other side to find some objecti [...] still to what he advised. But after t [...] death of this Cardinal, the Governme [...] was wholly Feminine and scandalo [...] to the justification of what the Card [...] nals, Lantes and Barbarino, declared the Conclave. Cardinal Lantes, w [...] [Page 35] was a man of an exact experienced wis­ [...]om, was demanded what Judgment he [...]ould give of Cardinal Panfilio, in case [...]e came to be Pope: who answered [...]ithout demur, That he would be a good [...]ope from the Pontomolle to Rome; the which Bridge is but a mile from Rome. Meaning that he would do good for the City of Rome, by Buildings and other [...]races, for the aggrandizing the hou­ [...]es of Rome, as in effect he did: but he [...]dded, That he would prove very per­ [...]itious to the State, and profit of Chri­ [...]endome; besides, that many particular [...]ersons would smart for it.

This Cardinal, without doubt, took [...]is measure from the absolute devotion [...]he Pope bore to his Sister-in-laws will: [...]oncluding that as Women think of no­ [...]hing farther than what they have be­ [...]ore their eyes, and within reach of [...]heir hands; the Pope would surely lay [...]l other Considerations aside, through Donna Olimpia's advice for the embel­ [...]shing of Rome, to the neglect of [Page 36] Church and State: Nor was he out i [...] his Prophecy.

In the same manner Cardinal Francesco Barbarino, a man of a most exemplary life, being intreated to give h [...] opinion of Cardinal Panfilio, presently replyed; He would make an excellen [...] Pope for the Women. A Sentence to notorious to be interpreted a Prophecy▪ To say the truth, Donna Olimpia disposed of all the Court Affairs, public [...] and private: There not being the lea [...] Business ordered without her goo [...] liking, in part at least. For most frequently, as he hath been treating with Cardinal Panzicolo about any particular, it hath been heard come from h [...] Holiness his mouth, What will Donna Olimpia say? Which makes it most pa [...] pable, that he was afraid of di [...] pleasing her. For which Reason, Panzicolo consulted with Donna Olimpia fo [...] the most part before he proposed an [...] business to the Pope; for fear he migh [...] otherwise contract the Odium of tha [...] aspiring Lady.

[Page 37]She importuned to have her Son [...]ade Cardinal, which was not refused [...]r; and to have him declared Cardi­ [...]l Patron, as being a Title conferred [...]ways upon the Pope's nearest Ne­ [...]ew. Donna Olimpia was induced to [...]is upon a double motive; neither of [...]hich proceeded from any natural af­ [...]ction, but meerly politick. The first [...]s to lessen Cardinal Panzicolo's In­ [...]rest with the Pope, by taking the [...]ansaction of Affairs off his hands: Pro­ [...]ising her self for certain, when once Cardinal Patron should be declared, [...] whom of course belongs the manage­ [...]ent of Affairs both publick and pri­ [...]te, Panzicolo would voluntariliy ab­ [...]nt himself from the Court; besides, [...]at the Pope having so near a help, [...]ould seek no further. The other was [...] make her self more absolute: For [...]ough her Son were in so considerable Station, yet by the incapacity of the [...]bject she made no doubt to be Mi­ [...]ess, her poo [...] child not daring to [Page 38] trust his own strength in any busine [...] without the advice of his Mother. An [...] no doubt it had proved so, if her So had not repented so soon of his bargain in taking such a task upon him.

The Pope undertook at the creatin [...] his Nephew Cardinal, to instruct hi [...] by degrees in the conduct of public Affairs; being conscious of his might ignorance. But the Nephew, in stea [...] of advancing, went backward, not ataining in so many months to the capacity of negotiating the least circumstance alone. For which his Uncle r [...] proved him a thousand times a day, f [...] a block-head. To prevent which faul [...] there came not the least business to hi [...] that he did not consult his Mothe [...] which fell out to her hearts desire. Th [...] defect of his, as it made him avoid a business to his power: so was he likewise troubled at it to find himself e [...] gaged in what suited not with his tale or way of living. In this mean wh [...] the Princess Rossana became a Wido [...] [Page 39] [...]en which he could not have wish­ [...]d for a better occasion: nor would he [...]se it, but resolved immediately to [...]y by his Scarlet, and marry the Prin­ [...]ess, against the consent both of Mother [...]nd Pope.

There was no great distance of time [...]etwixt his renuntiation to the Cardi­ [...]alship and his Wedding: to the asto­ [...]shment of Rome, at so unexpected a Marriage. The news of this was no [...]oner brought to the Pope's ears, than [...]e held a two hours conference with [...]onna Olimpia, to resolve what was to [...]e done in this case. The result of which was, that the Prince Camillo and [...]is Lady, should be banished from [...]ome. Upon which the Orders were [...]rought him to depart, to the amaze­ [...]ent of all people. However it was [...]ubmitted to, though not without some [...]egret on the Princess her side: who [...]iqued at such usage, took the liberty to [...]tter some discourse, which made not [...]or the honour of the Pope, or reputa­ [...]ion of Donna Olimpia.

[Page 40]There was none but wondred at th [...] disgrace: there not being the lea [...] objection to the Match, that might di [...] please his Holiness; especially since h [...] was the only branch of the house [...] Panfilio: Surely the Pope ought [...] have excused his natural infirmities, an [...] have approved his noble change, much conducing for the keeping up t [...] Family. Besides the considerablene [...] of the fortune with a person of h [...] quality, beauty, and youth: all whic [...] she had in perfection, with several othe [...] vertues, and the hopes of a numerou [...] off-spring, which was fulfilled by th [...] production of three Sons. One would think the Pope had more reason t [...] commend than quarrel his Nephew a [...] ter all this.

Those that looked more narrow [...] into circumstances, would not have [...] to be any dislike the Pope took again his Nephew, that he was in disgrace but out of a certain vain-glory, to mak [...] the world believe him a zealous Patriarch, [Page 41] in laying aside all considera­ [...]ions of his blood and family, to vindi­ [...]ate the honour of the Church, which [...]e looked upon as undervalued by his Nephews laying down his Cardinals Cap.

The other design in banishing his Nephew, as many will have it, pro­ [...]eeded from this reason: That the Pope perceiving the Revenue of the [...]ouse of Aldobrandino, which was that [...]f the Princess, charged with Legacies [...]nd other incumbrances, did his Ne­ [...]hew this courtesie by banishing of [...]im; that being out of the way in the Country for the most part, he was [...]xempt from that expence and state he [...]ust otherwise have been at upon the Marriage of a Popes Nephew with a Princess born to so great a fortune: By his means declining the present charge [...]he inheritance came in the more cleer. [...]ut this was a consideration so sordid, [...]hat I can scarce believe it of a private [...]erson: much less of a Prince, whose [Page 42] mind is daily excited to generou [...] actions.

This discourse, to say the truth, begu [...] in the shops amongst the Tradesmen who for the most part measure by th [...] largeness of their own Souls, at six pe [...] cent. However it gained credit throug [...] the discourse and opinion of the mos [...] refined Courtiers: who said, the Pop [...] would never have done this of himself but that Cardinal Panzicolo seeing th [...] importunity and noise Donna Olimpia made for the banishment of these tw [...] persons, to humour the business, gav [...] this out for the reputation of the Pope good nature, and Donna Olimpia avarice.

But it is time I now shew you, wh [...] Donna Olimpia forced her self to put he [...] Son in disgrace with his Uncle: which might otherwise appear impossible fo [...] a Mother, or common humanity. Therefore thus it was, that no man doubte [...] but the Mother was the main and only instrument that wrought the banishment [Page 43] of her Son, and so it will be worth [...]ains to know the particularities of a [...]hing so extraordinary.

Upon the notice of Prince Camillo's [...]esign, Donna Olimpia grew jealous lest [...]he considerableness of so great a Match might create her Partners in the [...]isposal of the Pope, at least limit her [...]n part if not in the whole. What gave [...]er the greatest suspicion, was the [...]nowledge she had of the Princess of [...]ossano her Daughter-in-law, reputed [...]or a Lady of great wit and discretion, who spoke solidly always upon good [...]rounds; which would no doubt in [...]ime have won upon the Pope. And [...]hat which the more aggravated her [...]ealousy, was that she very well knew [...]he inclinations of the Pope to love the Female Sex: so that she certainly con­ [...]luded his Holiness would take more pleasure in having to do with a young Niece, then an old Sister-in-law. For [...]his cause she used all her cunning to [...]ender the Nephew odious to the Un­cle, [Page 44] against the bonds of nature and consanguinity: that she might satisfie her Ambition of guiding the Popes will at her own discretion. Nor was it strange that the same Pope should put all his affairs into her hands, to whom he had long since resigned his heart: though she abused this power to such a degree that she brought the whole Court to he [...] beck.

Besides, if we consider the endow­ments of Prince Camillo, we cannot bu [...] think the Pope had some reason on hi [...] side to forget his Relation. For at what time he made him Cardinal, he designed to fit him for the employment of a first Nephew, for the which he found a great incapacity in him; insomuch that the more his Uncle instructed him, th [...] greater Dunce he grew, that scarce a day passed without a multitude of reproofs and chidings: the fear of which as he endevoured to be more diligent run him still into greater absurdities; s [...] that the Pope could never see him with out extreem regret.

[Page 45]The Court wondred most at these [...]wo particulars, in the banishment of [...]rince Camillo. The first was to see a [...]ope so besotted with a Woman, as to [...]unish his Nephew for having directed [...]s love to a Princess of equal quality [...] himself. Who could but admire to [...]e a Pope given over to the excess of [...] aspiring Woman, who governed [...]hurch, State, Court, and Pope him­ [...]lf with a high hand: and at the same [...]me become so cruel to his only Ne­ [...]hew for appropriating with the love [...]f so noble a Lady, so considerable a [...]atrimony to the house of Panfilio!

The second wonder was to see a [...]rincess so much sought after by other [...]eat Princes, to place her affections [...]on one that was noted for his simpli­ [...]ty and ill nature. Had it been for [...]is reason alone, he was oblieged to [...]ve commended the choice of his Ne­ [...]hew, and received them both into his [...]vour. But for all this it is no strange [...]ing to see a Princess condescend to [Page 46] such a Match; when we consider the nature of the Roman Ladies, who had rather govern a City of Church-men, tha [...] a Kingdome of Cavaliers.

It may be wondred at, that the Pop [...] in the beginning of his Reign, should seek to extinguish the house of Panfilio by taking his Nephew into the Church who was the only branch of the Family when we see for the most part, that former Popes, to establish their House and Name, have ruined the State, and set a the world together by the Ears; an [...] this on the contrary to the amazemen [...] of all men, to seek the ruine of his own House. But to do him right, the Pop [...] was never of this mind: but resolved [...] marry him, as Panzicolo advised. Don [...] Olimpia was she (an incredible story [...] experience did not prove beyond co [...] trole) that unmanned the Pope, an [...] brought him to yield to the banishme [...] of his Nephew: choosing rather to bl [...] out the Name of Panfilio, than suffer th [...] least diminution in that authority sh [...] [Page 47] [...]ad over the Pope, which she appre­ [...]ended might be endangered by her [...]ons Marriage.

Prince Camillo being gone from Rome [...]ith his Lady, Donna Olimpia ingrossed [...]e whole Court affair, yet with no [...]hall regret at Panzicolo's so good cre­dit with the Pope. However Panzicolo [...]ot interrupting her in her main design [...]f heaping up riches, she would not [...]iscover that private malice she bore against him. She would have had the [...]ope discharge himself of all business, [...]nd leave it to his confidents, which [...]e comprehended within her sole per­ [...]on. To this end she sought all means [...]o divert him from that care he then [...]ook of Church and State.

For he was wont at the first to be [...]ery sollicitous in enquiring into all [...]he affairs of Rome, receiving the Peti­ [...]ions, and hearing the Complaints of [...]hose which were aggrieved, from their own mouths. But Donna Olimpia made [...]im quit so good thoughts, by insinua­ting [Page 48] that it would be better to kee [...] himself in repose for the good [...] Christendome, than to harass himse [...] out so with hazzard of his life. Sh [...] conjured him to speak but little, an [...] when he was never so little indisposed she would seem very much afflicted and blame him as accessary to his ow [...] mischief, by troubling himself wi [...] business more than needed. The poe [...] Pope, who believed she did all th [...] with a sincere and single heart, adore her; for want of sense enough to pe [...] ceive that this zeal proceeded not fro [...] the love she bore him, but a meer tric [...] to get the disposal of all into her own hands.

She perswaded him to moderate suc [...] expences as she thought superfluous, b [...] abating the Sallaries of divers Officers making particular Laws, and reformin [...] his own Table, and indeed all thing whose charge drained the Popes purse [...] which she kept without ever giving any accompt to him.

[Page 49]The greediness of the Barbarines in [...]raping up Money, which was the [...]ost excessive Rome had ever seen; in [...]omparison of that of Innocent I [...]ould say Donna Olimpia was a flea­ [...]ting. No Judge Criminal, but was [...]ade by her recommendation, to whom [...]e gave most barbarous instructions to [...]pply her avarice. She warned them to [...]ok after the Purse, & not the Blood: [...]nd would frequently write to them, [...] send her the Redemptions of the [...]uilty, because she intended to lay [...]em out for the benefit of the Poor. [...]pon which the covetousness of the [...]dges, seeking for their share too, the [...]e Extortion and Rigour was brought [...] that height, as it was impossible to [...]agin it higher. And though the Pope [...]d certain information that those [...]dges were excessive cruel, & robbed [...]ithout measure or distinction: yet either were the Oppressed relieved, [...]or the Judges punished; and that [...]rough the pernicious impression [Page 50] Donna Olimpia had made upon him▪

He said, that Divine Providence which disposed his Will, had appointe [...] by his hands good Men, for the executio [...] of Justice: Therefore to speak ill of h [...] Ministers, were to charge Divine Providence, which had inspired him to th [...] choice. Neither Words nor Example which made out clear to him the co [...] trary of that false Belief, and scandalou [...] Opinion, he had entertained; could ever make him quit that wicked Fancy.

A certain German Count, a Protestant, having heard speak one day o [...] this Belief of the Pope's concerning h [...] Ministers, told his friend: I see plain it will one day be requisite to hold all t [...] Popes Subjects for Infallible.

But Donna Olimpia did all she coul [...] to hinder Complaints from coming [...] the Pope's ears, receiving them he [...] self, after she had first received th [...] Money of the Oppressours: Thus admitting of contrarieties at the sam [...] time.

[Page 51]All the discourse of Rome, was Donna Olimpia's insatiable thirst after Wealth: [...]or every one admired that in the time [...]f so many other Popes, who had ma­ [...]y Nephews, that all robbed, that is, [...]rovided for themselves; there was [...]ot so much extortion seen, as in the [...]me of Innocent; when all went into [...]e Purse of Donna Olimpia. For she [...]ould not let her Son-in-law see a Far­ [...]ing, but considered them as if they [...]ad not been: of whom it will do well [...] give some account.

The House of Panfilio (except Don­ [...]a Olimpia, who came out of the House [...]f the Maldachini) consisted only of the [...]ope, his Sister, Don Camillo and his two [...]sters. His Holiness his Sister much elder [...]an himself, was called Sister Agatha; [...]oncerning whom there is not much to [...]y: For she never came out of her [...]oister, but when the Pope sent for [...]er; which he did to cheer up his heart [...] see her so lusty at an age more ad­ [...]anced than his own. This Lady, du­ring [Page 52] the time her Brother was Cardinal held a very good correspondence wit [...] Donna Olimpia her Sister-in-law: b [...] after he was Pope, she began to de [...] her, and not without some reason: F [...] she perceived her Brother had debared her from solliciting any grac [...] while he heaped them upon her Siste [...]-in-law. So that as most that lead M [...] nastick lives, are naturally propense [...] Envy, she entertained a greater Hatre [...] for her Sister-in-law, that reaped [...] Benefit; than her Brother, who affored the Harvest. And truly for the spa [...] of ten years under the Reign of h [...] Brother, she never could obtain a [...] favour above the blessing of a Meda [...] This unkindness proceeded not direct from the Pope, though he was a pe [...] son not over free of his Favours: b [...] from the prejudice Donna Olimpia h [...] possessed him with; making him b [...] lieve, that if once he began to grati [...] his Sister; the Nuns, who are natural very importunate, would never lea [...] [Page 53] [...]essing her to beg Favours: by which [...]eans, neither he nor his Sister should [...]er be at rest. This charitable consi­ [...]ration, was all this while, the least of [...]r thoughts: But she apprehended that [...]ster Agatha would receive all the Pre­ [...]ats of those she procured Graces for; [...]d therefore contrived it so, that no­ [...]ng should be granted her, that she [...]r self might make that profit.

Of Don Camillo's two Sisters, the first [...]s married to Don Andrea Justiniani, Prince that may be reckoned amongst [...]rtune's Disciples. This man was cal­ [...] to be Heir to the late Marquiss Justi­ [...]ani: who finding no Heir by descent, [...]st his eye upon this Creature, at that [...]he a miserable poor Knight: Who [...]ough it was at a great distance, yet [...]ginally he came of the same Stock [...]th the Marquiss. Arrived therefore [...] so considerable a pitch of Fortune, [...]mself made it yet greater by marry­ [...]g Innocent's Niece, who though he [...]s then but Cardinal, became Pope [Page 54] soon after, which conferred those priviledges upon the Prince, as alway [...] attend Popes Nephews. However, h [...] Relation made him not much richer For except the usual Honours an [...] Charges, that are conferred of cour [...] upon the Popes Nephews, which a [...] not unprofitable; the Pope never i [...] tended farther, knowing that as h [...] was a good manager of the Esta [...] which was fallen to him, he woul [...] think himself very well, that he ha [...] made so good a Pass in his Knight E [...] rantry. Besides, the Pope thought n [...] fit to commit any Charge of weight u [...] on him; finding him a person, exce [...] that he was a good honest man, of ve [...] ordinary parts. The Princess his Lad [...] was welcome enough to the Pope; b [...] with the same restrictions, that nothi [...] was to be got: For her Mother wou [...] seldom or never suffer her to come i [...] to the Pope's presence. Thus we Husband and Wife both deceived, ev [...] in ordinary Favours, which their d [...] [Page 55] [...]ands never exceeded, nor often pre­ [...]iled.

Don Camillo's second Sister was [...]arried to Signior Don Nicolo Ludovisio [...]rince of Piombino, Nephew to Gregory [...]e Fifteenth, and Brother to that [...]ardinal Patron who in the time of his [...]ncle disposed absolutely of all Church [...]ffairs. This Prince thought to have [...]ad great matters by his Wife, receiving [...]he greater part of her portion in large [...]opes, which Cardinal Panzicolo gave [...]im, who made the Match. And truly [...]here was some grounds to believe it: [...]ecause it was in that nick of time that Don Camillo was made Cardinal. For he [...]resumed, considering the weakness of his person, the real power of a Nephew would devolve to him; and that being exercised in government, all business of State, publick and private, would fall to his share: which was the reason made him so hot upon this Match. But he found himself mightily deceived, his Mother-in-law (Donna Olimpia) not suf­fering [Page 56] the disposal of a thing so considerable to pass through other hand than her own: so that the poor Princ [...] was oblieged to be fed like a Child wit [...] what she gave him.

Nor did the Prince get any thing b [...] lamenting his sad condition, to be debar [...] red the means to those favours which always attend so near Allies to a Pope For Donna Olimpia, nettled at his di [...] course, gave him to understand, tha [...] he had received sufficient grace an [...] honour since the Pope had layed a [...] others aside to prefer him to the Marriage of his Niece. As much as to say [...] he had no reason to complain of [...] Match, that put him in a capacity o [...] repairing the breaches made in the fortune of his Family. Upon this answe [...] the Prince remained silent by the advic [...] of his natural prudence; dissemblin [...] all, and continuing his observance to he [...] as Mother-in-law, and the Popes favorite.

However, this Prince omitted no [...] [Page 57] [...] vent his passion among friends upon [...]ccasion, by saying, that his alliance [...]ith the Pope in stead of raisiing, [...]d diminished him through the dis­ [...]ust it gave him with the French, who [...]ereupon had made his State of Piom­ [...]no, the object of their fury. So that not [...]eing able to revenge themselves upon [...]he Pope, they would at least fall [...]pon what belonged to his Relations. Thus by his alliance, he became a cer­ [...]in loser: Whereas the recompense [...]e received was not considerable, be­ [...]ng comprised only in the Vice Admi­ [...]alship of the Pope's Galleys, and some [...]ther slight matter, that was not com­ [...]arable to his loss. The Command of [...]he Galleys was bestowed upon him at [...]he instance of Donna Olimpia: not out [...]f any desire to advance him, but by [...]hat means to send him far enough [...]rom Rome: for the Pope was resolved [...]o send the Admiral with his Galleys, to [...]ssist the Venetians in the Levant-war. The Prince was also displeased, that the [Page 58] Pope ever sent for him at vacant hour when there was no discourse admitted more than for Recreation: And thoug [...] the Prince would begin sometimes t [...] to talk seriously of Business, he wa [...] still interrupted by his Holiness. B [...] which the poor Prince perceived h [...] was to be treated as Buffoone, and no [...] Nephew to the Pope.

And now we come to Donna Olimpia who, for five years and upwards, execised in a manner the whole power o [...] Pope Innocent. This Lady, as I hav [...] told you elsewhere, governed the Pop [...] for a long time before. As she was [...] woman of a great deal of wit and subtlety: she knew so well how to ti [...] her business and order circumstance for the captivating his will, as foreseing what might happen; nor failed sh [...] of her aim. Thus she not only disposed of him when he was Bishop, Ca [...] dinal, and Nuntio; and of all he ha [...] without the least contradiction: b [...] even after he was Pope, she understood [Page 59] [...] well how to keep her ground in the [...]iddest of so much greatness, by hold­ [...]g off all those which were not her [...]eatures; that it was no easie matter [...] move her in the least either by con­ [...]deration of the great inconveniency [...]very way to see the Supreme of the [...]hurch subjected to the licentious ap­ [...]etite of a most ambitious Woman; or [...]he general dissatisfaction of the Court, [...]hich for want of a Cardinal Nephew, would be wholly excluded from all Af­ [...]airs by this Lady. But alas! Who [...]hould govern the Chair sooner, than [...]he, who was absolute Mistress both of [...]t, and him that held it? A Lady, that [...]ught deservedly to be admired for a [...]udicious and ready Wit, especially where any thing was to be got, or for [...]ny wickedness. And it is most certain, [...]one but Donna Olimpia could have overcome all difficulties for the hold­ [...]ng the Reins of Government but six Months, whereas she continued six Years together. And what was the [Page 60] more to be wondred at, excepting he [...] exact rules of Economie; her endowments were like other persons. But sh [...] ordered this so cunningly, that it gained upon the Pope's affections to such [...] degree, as made way for her to ac [...] without law or restraint.

She reduced the Datary to her absolute dispose: For whereas before the Master of the Datary was absolute to sell all Places at a certain Rate; he [...] was now left a simple Executour of the Pope's Orders, and many times of Don­na Olimpia's little Notes; though in­deed, what the Pope commanded, pro­ceeded from her directions. However, the Cardinal that was Master of the Datary, being a wise man, took all in good part; though every one pitied him for so great a Slight as was put up­on his person.

In fine, whatever Office at Court fell, nothing was disposed of, without the knowledge and good-liking of Donna Olimpia. If any Benefices were [Page 61] [...] be bestowed, great or small, the [...]fficers of the Datary were to keep [...]em in hand, till she had fully inform­ [...]d her self of their value; and then she [...]alled out the best for her own disposal. Whatever Bishoprick fell void, they [...]at pretended to it, were to address [...]emselves to her; and he that offered [...]ost, without consideration, either of [...]apacity or Desert, was introduced. [...]bbeys, Canonicates, and all other Dig­ [...]ties and Governments, whether Civil [...]r Ecclesiastical, were all conferred at Donna Olimpia's pleasure and command: [...]efore whom, there was no appearing [...]mpty handed. Nay, you must bring [...]e full value of the Place: For the [...]ates were so set, that an Office of a [...]ousand Crowns a year, that lasted [...]ut three years, he that had it, was to [...]ay a Years Revenue to Donna Olimpia; [...] six years, double, and so on propor­ [...]onably: But if it were an Office for [...]ife, she would not be ashamed to ask [...]he Moiety of the Revenue for the first [Page 62] twelve years. Some Bishopricks [...] void, more than five years togethe [...] (however, she received the profits [...] them all that while,) only because s [...] could not find a Chapman for the [...] that would present her at so dear [...] Rate. An Abbot of the Kingdom [...] Naples, beggered his House, by cove [...] ing a Bishoprick, that was at Donna [...] limpia's dispose: For he was given [...] understand, he must pay twenty tho [...] sand Crowns for it, if he would ha [...] it. The poor man, who could not ma [...] up such a sum in his whole Family, pe [...] swaded his Brothers to joyn in the se [...] ling all their Patrimony, and take t [...] upon Credit what they could, to mak [...] up the sum: Which being done, and th [...] money paid, he was named to the B [...] shoprick, but died before he had bee [...] fully possessed. Thus was the who [...] Family ruined, and Donna Olimpia restored to the possession of the Benefic [...] which she sold again to some oth [...] person.

[Page 63]Such was the exorbitance of this [...]odern Agrippina's avarice, that she [...]ade her consent so necessary in pro­ [...]oting any body, as without it nothing [...]uld pass. Oftentimes she would [...]ake the Cardinals treat the same Bu­ [...]ess over again in their Congregati­ [...]s, which they had dispatched once [...]fore, and confirmed by a Definitive [...]ecree; nay more, in those very Con­ [...]egations where the Pope himself had [...]en present, and concurred in person. Through this great influence came it [...] pass, that all the Court Officers, ei­ [...]er out of fear or hopes, made Court [...]her, not performing the least duty [...]thout her knowledge and advice.

Cardinal Panzicolo himself, though [...] much taken up with the business of [...] Place, besides his frequent indispo­ [...]ons; was nevertheless, to humour [...]s Lady, obliged many times to go [...] person to find her out, and give her [...] accompt of all the secret Affairs that [...]curred. Thus she from time to time [Page 64] with a Majestick nod, Pope-like, a bu [...] dle of Memorials in her hand alread [...] resolved upon, would spend hours wi [...] his Holiness in ripening her Propo [...] tions; the which were often descante [...] upon, with bitterness enough som [...] times. For the sharp Wits were as w [...] piqued as astonished, to see the Cou [...] so close towards men of desert, and [...] prodigal upon those that deserved n [...] thing. There was no medling with t [...] faults of those that had the power [...] their hands, though all men were m [...] ved with indignation, to reflect, ho [...] with a look of this Lady, people we [...] banished the Court, even those th [...] were the sole hopes of the Family [...] Panfilio. Every one was amazed to [...] the unnaturalness of the Pope, w [...] was not sensible of the propitious inc [...] nation of Heaven towards his Fami [...] through his Nephew; who in the ti [...] of his exile had two Sons by the Pri [...] cess (which by other Popes was a ways esteemed the greatest blessing [...] [Page 65] [...]t continued so little concerned at all [...]is, that he never so much as thought [...] calling him back.

And now it is fit you should know [...]e reason, why the Pope was so har­med, as to regard his Nephews Off­ [...]ing so little. At what time Donna [...]impia had perswaded the Pope to [...]ke Don Camillo Cardinal, against his [...]oliness own sense, that of his Rela­ [...]ns and Panzicolo's; she made use of [...]s devilish pretence, that her Son [...]s insufficient, and therefore it would [...] very ill to make any Lady so mise­ [...]ble by such a Match: besides that it [...]st have been a great affliction to the [...]n, when he found himself uncapable [...]er of having Children. Upon this, [...]en she understood the Princess was [...]th Child, and afterwards brought to [...]d of a lusty Boy, she took up [...]re wicked and hellish courses than [...]merly. She put it into the Pope's [...]d (I tremble to think of so horrid [...]action) to suspect the honour of the [Page 66] Princess of Rossano her Daughter-law, and made him believe the C [...] dren were indeed hers but not [...] husbands, who was utterly uncapa [...] of generation.

The Pope soon believed it, as co [...] ing from Donna Olimpia's mouth, [...] whom he had sworn entire submissi [...] For between these two there pas [...] nothing more than command and o [...] dience: she said the word, and [...] obeyed. Insomuch, that some said [...] had laid a charm upon him. And t [...] [...] ly I am apt to believe it: how else (la [...] ing aside all other considerations) w [...] it possible that such a red-faced, clow [...] ish fellow should prove so compleis [...] in love to a Lady, especially to th [...] without some Diabolicall Encha [...] ment?

The Histories of former ages can [...] produce the like, I do not say i [...] Pope, for in that it is particular, bu [...] any other Prince or Monarch. I co [...] there hath been, and that a Tyra [...] [Page 67] who hath delivered himself over to [...]ome Woman: but it was in the affe­ [...]tions of his Soul, and not his Scepter. [...]he admitted her into his bed, she [...]ntred not into his Councels: if in pri­ [...]ate he adored her, he took no notice [...]f her in publick: if he made a present [...]f his person to her, he did not so of [...]s Kingdome: if he permitted her to [...]le himself, yet not his people: and [...]he did go so far as to allow her some [...]thority in publick, some power in his [...]hrone, it was undoubtedly with so [...]uch caution at least, that she should [...]t be able to transgress the bounds of [...]e respect to the regal Majesty. But [...]nocent, on the other side, presented [...]onna Olimpia, not only with his heart [...]d affections, but with his hand, person, [...]d dominion; without restraint, limit or [...]spect: and it is most assuredly true, [...]at never any King gave so much [...]wer to his Wife, nor any Queen [...]egent commanded her Councels with [...] much authority, as Donna Olimpia [Page 68] had usurped unto herself both ove [...] Pope, Councel, and People.

Such was the imperiousness of th [...] Lady, that she endevoured to null th [...] Decrees of the Church, and did i [...] effect so shake them, reducing wha [...] former Popes had ordained to tha [...] degree, that all men apprehended [...] Schism in the Church. And truly on [...] would think it were Schism enough t [...] see a Lady and the Pope change place [...] A thousand examples might be brough [...] of the unheard-of power of Donn [...] Olimpia: but that they are such as woul [...] more offend the ears than satisfie th [...] curiosity of any man. I will therefor [...] conclude all in one, both for brevit [...] and civilities sake.

Donna Olimpia had a Nephew (wh [...] is yet alive) one of her Brothers Sons about eighteen years of age, of [...] sleepish look, no presence or aspect of [...] man, wholly unexperienced in th [...] world, a great Dunce uncapable o [...] impression, not able to entertain di [...] course, [Page 69] ill made and worse spoken, [...]dicted only to such recreations as sute [...]ith mean and low Spirits. This crea­ [...]re with much adoe was once brought [...]fore the Pope, who turning to Donna [...]impia that had introduced him, said, [...]eseech you Sister let him come no nearer, [...]r he is ten times uglier than my self. For [...] this, through the importunity of [...]e Aunt, he made him Cardinal at [...]ghteen years old, not only to the [...]onder of the Court, but all Christen­ [...]ome. And this is Cardinal Maldachini, [...]ho in his visits that he either gives or [...]ceives always makes use of a set form [...]f Complements, which he hath got by [...]eart; and if you put him out of his [...]ad, he never fails to talk non-sense. [...]ust about the same time at Rome the [...]tatue of Marforio was hid by a Palace [...]at was built about it: upon which [...]ere were a thousand Pasquils made; [...]mong which I remember one was,

[Page 70]And truly this Cardinal is and wi [...] be the Carneval or Jack-pudding of th [...] Apostolick Colledge, the Churche [...] scandal and the reproach of the Cour [...] The instructions that Donna Olimpia h [...] Aunt gave him, that he should kee [...] Learned men in his Family, was of sma [...] use to him, who had not wit enough [...] make any benefit by their conversatio [...] Nor wanted this Lady cruelty: for sh [...] was the cause of Mascambruno's execution, and of divers others, out of who [...] when she had drawn what money sh [...] could in their life-time, she hoped fo [...] more by their Death. Nay she too [...] away the Datary from Cardina [...] Cecchini, and used Palotta so ill, that h [...] would often say, he had rather be in Cloister liable to the impertinence of Monk, than in Rome under the Tyrann [...] of Donna Olimpia.

So did this Lady govern the Court that Panzicolo made it his business wit [...] the Pope to make him understand th [...] complaints of all the Embassadours t [...] [Page 71] [...]d the Court without some Minister to [...]nvey their addresses to his Holiness; [...]ing concerned that they must still be [...]rced upon all occasions to treat imme­ [...]ately with the Pope, who would [...]ver give them a good nay, for a bad [...]a; that is, an answer to any purpose. [...]t last, weary, as I suppose, of the [...]ntinual importunities of his Sister-in- [...]w, and the taking upon him all [...]udiences, not having allowed himself [...]therto that assistance his Predecessors ways thought requisite, he hearkened advice.

The place the Title of Cardinal- [...]atron carries along with it (which is ever conferred but upon a Nephew) [...] very considerable, and of equal eight of honour and business. When [...]e Pope is indisposed, or hath a mind [...] be private, he receives the Embassa­ [...]ors; with whom he hath power to [...]reat, but to resolve nothing; though [...]ndeed Gregory the Fifteenth referred [...]l to his Nephew. Besides he subscribes [Page 72] the Letters of the Nuntii Legats, Gove [...] nours of Provinces, Presides in th [...] Councel of State; and in short, all th [...] ought to come before the Pope pass [...] thorough his hands. As yet this he [...] was wanting to Innocent, who throug [...] his languishing condition had gre [...] need of it, as being very troublesom [...] to the Embassadors that had to do wi [...] him.

Therefore, to ease himself of busines [...] he held conference with Panzicol [...] which likewise set his Nephews all [...] work. Many were proposed and sti [...] thwarted by Donna Olimpia to preserv [...] her own interest, though she ever seemed willing, and at last through th [...] urgency of affairs was so upon cond [...] tion it were one wholly at her be [...] Cardinal Albergati was first thought o [...] who calls himself by the Title of Ca [...] dinal Ludovisio. This the Princ [...] Ludovisio pushed earnestly forwards, a [...] being desirous, since he had none himself, to have one so near of blood t [...] [Page 73] [...]im in publick employment: But his [...]rothers ignorance and simplicity in [...]rivate affairs much more in publick, [...]rocured him the Negative. Next was brought up Father Fabio Albergati, [...]he Cardinals Brother, a Jesuit: but [...]he Pope declared he would not ag­ [...]randize one house with the advance­ [...]ent of three Brothers. At last, after [...]ong debate, to the wonder of all men, [...]nd the great dis-satisfaction of the [...]opes kindred, was declared an adopt­ [...]d Nephew of another house, who with [...]is Cardinalship had the name of Pan­ [...]lio conferred upon him, and the title of Cardinal-Patron. But it will not be [...]miss to give you the whole story of it, [...]s being an Election that did highly [...]xasperate Donna Olimpia, who inveigh­ [...]d most furiously against the promoter [...]f this business.

This new Cardinal may be reckoned [...]mongst the most unexpected prodigies [...]f fortune for these many Ages. For without any relation of blood to the [Page 74] Pope, without merit, nay void of al [...] endowments that should render a ma [...] estimable in the Court of Rome, no [...] having the least familiarity with th [...] Pope, only known to him by sight; wa [...] for all this (not the least suspecting o [...] it) advanced to be Cardinal Nephew as if he had been of the blood of th [...] Panfilii. He had no other qualificatio [...] for so eminent a place, but the extraction from a truely noble Family, which notwithstanding was so deeply engaged in debts that it sunk every day. Hi [...] name was Camillo Astalli, of twenty seven years of age, of a gentile Gar [...] and address, and good qualities enough to advance him to a Bishoprick, but [...] farther. That which added to the Court wonder, was to see one raised to so important a preferment for th [...] assistance of the Pope in the most weighty matters of State and Politic [...] affairs; who was to seek in all sorts o [...] Politicks for want of practice i [...] businesses of that nature, which neve [...] [Page 75] [...]ame in his way till now. The intro­ [...]uction that he had by means of his [...]harge at Rome, came through the affi­ [...]ty the Marquiss his Brother had con­ [...]acted by marrying the Niece of Donna Olimpia; who made it her business to [...]ok after honour and preferment for [...]e advance of a strange Family now by Marriage become her own, as esteeming [...]erself not in so splendid a condition as [...]as fit for a Pope's Kinswoman. And [...]hat encouraged her the more to be [...]olicitous, was the consideration of the [...]ender portion she went off with, coun­ [...]ng the rest upon the expectations so [...]ear an affinity with the Pope must [...]eeds promise: though indeed it had [...]roved a bait that had gulled many, and [...]ade them reckon without their Host. [...]owever the House of Astalli had great [...]ood luck to ally themselves with Donna Olimpia. For howbeit they [...]anted not for Nobility, yet had they [...]o Estate to maintain it; besides that [...]he greatest share of what remained was [Page 76] by the connivance of Donna Olimpia layed out upon a Clerk of the Chambers place, upon which the whol [...] Family of Astalli relyed; nor had the had that to trust to without her advice And indeed it succeeded well with him, who had by that means a free address to the Court, together with the relation his Brother had contracte [...] with Donna Olimpia, besides that th [...] place was very Honorable. He applye [...] himself to court Cardinal Panzicolo i [...] the highest manner, and he did wisely in it: for he plainly saw next to Donna Olimpia, he had the greatest power with the Pope. Fortune would have it so that he found an equal return of kindness from the Cardinal, who gave himself up captive to certain modest an [...] obsequious behaviours that appeare in this youth: however against th [...] Cardinal's usual manner, who would never undertake to favour any bod [...] before the Pope; not out of any i [...] nature, but because he found the Pop [...] [Page 77] [...]illing all favours should proceed from Donna Olimpia. Nevertheless here it [...]ll out otherwise: for Panzicolo had [...]ossessed the Pope so far with a good [...]pinion of Astalli, representing of him as man fit for great employment; that he [...]duced the Pope to be taken with the [...]rriage of the young man. Afterwards [...]hen they came to consult how the [...]ope might be eased in the weight of [...]usiness, there not being one of his [...]indred found fit for so great an under­ [...]king, and he having through Donna Olimpia's perswasion an utter aversion [...]r them; Panzicolo was hearkened to, [...]ho had preferred his favourite before [...] other considerations.

This action was remarked by the [...]ourt of Rome for one of the most [...]traordinary that had appeared upon [...]e Stage of Rome a long time.

However they knew the Pope could [...]t do otherwise: For though it was [...]his power to ease himself, by appoint­ [...]g Ministers, to whom he might give [Page 78] what authority he pleased, withou [...] placing a person not qualified for it in [...] eminent a degree, which must oblig [...] him to provide all necessaries for [...] Nephew, Astalli being wholly unfurnished; yet here lay the difficulty, the whereas the main design of the Pope i [...] this, was to remit the Audiences an [...] negotiations of Embassadors to him, an [...] the discussion of all Intrigues; and th [...] Embassadors never used to treat with any under the title of Nephew, it wa [...] found requisite to advance Astalli to a Cardinalship. But before they woul [...] accept of Audience from him, the Embassadors would have it published through Rome: which was done, an [...] the Pope declared him his Nephew giving him the adoptive name of Cardinal Panfilio, and the title of Cardinal Patron. By which declaration, all difficulties being removed, the Embassador disposed themselves to treat with thi [...] new Nephew, though not withou [...] distaste.

[Page 79]Many applyed themselves to a strict examination of this Affair: and what made them the more curious, was a [...]trong fancy, that it wholly proceeded from Cardinal Panzicolo. They consi­dered therefore what motives carried him on, to bring such a person upon the stage, who must of necessity eclipse him and all his deliberations, by the conspi­cuous degree he held above him. At last [...]hey discovered it to be a piece of great Cunning, and like the Product of Pan­zicolo. His main design was to weaken [...]he insolent authority of Donna Olimpia; which he thought impossible to work any other way, than by introducing a Nephew to the Pope's liking: and thus finding the Pope inclined to take that course, he made it his business to ef­fect it. He knew moreover, that not only the power of Donna Olimpia would be diminished by this, but his own [...]ugmented, as well alluring himself, [...]he young man unexperienced in the Politicks, that he might not appear [Page 80] wholly ignorant before the Pope, woul [...] undertake nothing without his advice and thus should he have the absolute dispose of Court Affairs, at least fo [...] some time. They will likewise have it that Panzicolo had another design deepe than all this; that is, by this means whe [...] the Pope dyed, as he was one tha [...] flew at all, he imagined to compass hi [...] ends more readily: For he looked upon it as a very fair occasion, by having raised this young man to so high a preferment; who would no doubt be so mindful of the good turn, that in gra­titude to him, he would seek all mean of return by assisting him in the Electi­on to Saint Peter's Chair, being pretty confident already of the Barbarines and the Spaniards.

But he gained not more (less per­chance) upon the young man's affe­ctions, than he did upon the hatred o [...] the Pope's Kindred and Relations: Fo [...] hardly was it known (being so secretly carryed, that Donna Olimpia never mistrusted [Page 81] the least till it was done) but [...]ealousies multiplyed immediately, and [...]itterness against both promoter and [...]romoted, that so eminent a Favour [...]hould be conferred upon a strange Fa­mily. The affections of the Pope were [...]o sooner won towards this adoptive Nephew, but they took deep root pre­ [...]ently; so that he did all for the making [...]im considerably great to his Place, which tended very much to the lessen­ [...]ng the House of Panfilio. Hence pro­ [...]eeded fierce exasperations against Pan­zicolo as the chief Engine of this mis­ [...]chief. Principally Donna Olimpia, who [...]sed to have account of all the State [...]ysteries at Court, and now seeing her [...]lf clearly wiped of that interest, was [...]verely netled, thundring out nothing [...]ut fury and disdain against Panzicolo, [...]xing him for a Villain and a Traytor, [...]ot forbearing her invectives (through [...]e confidence she had with him) in the [...]ope's own presence.

Innocent however employed this [Page 82] Nephew, committing to his charge, th [...] Affairs of his own House, and the administration of the additional Fortune to the Primogeniture of the House o [...] Panfilio, as knowing him fit for such business. And this helped to make th [...] Blood of Prince Camillo boil highe [...] who was the true Nephew of the Pope being upbraided thereby, as one tha [...] understood not how to manage hi [...] own Affairs, sometimes with suspitio [...] of his honesty.

This Cardinal Patron gave Audience to the Embassadours and Minister of Princes, with great patience and civility, as likewise to Courtiers and o [...] ther particular men, who not having easie access to the Pope themselves, ha [...] their recourse to him to mediate for them. Nevertheless, this was b [...] a seeming satisfaction in the general For to particular business of importance he never gave other answer, tha [...] that he would relate it to his Holiness nor upon the relation, made any oth [...] [Page 83] report, than that the business would be taken into consideration; which in the language of the Court of Rome, is as such as to say, there would little or [...]othing be done in it.

The Pope communicated all State affairs to this Cardinal, not in order to [...]y the weight of them upon him, but [...] train him up to Business. For he [...]ould not confide too much in so raw States-man, lest he should fail him. [...]o that he had no more of Cardinal-Pa­ [...]on than the Title, and Honour (which [...]as yet of no small consequence) to [...]bscribe the Letters of the Nuntii, [...]egats, Governours of Provinces, and [...]her of the most considerable Officers [...]nder the Ecclesiastical State. For shall matters and dispatches of Letters, [...]ey were drawn up by a young man, [...]ho was bred Secretary under Pan­ [...]colo, and by him brought into this Of­ [...]e, as well deserving it for his aptness [...] business.

To comfort a little the checked am­bition [Page 84] of Donna Olimpia, and to asswag [...] her wrath, the Pope would have th [...] Cardinal visit the said Lady sometime [...] and impart to her such Affairs as h [...] thought best. But he for the most pa [...] told her all, as being of little value [...] him; since neither he nor she were determine them. The Pope's Relation durst not seem dissatisfied with the Car­dinal-Patron's advance; lest they should be thought to question his judgment who had made so free a Choice: besid [...] that the Cardinal always shewed him self unwilling to oppose himself to, [...] promote any thing that might give d [...] like to the Relations of his chief Ben [...] factour: For all that, the jealousie the one, and inveteracy of the othe [...] burnt inwardly like hot embers.

The advice of this new Nephew w [...] hardly dispersed over Christendom; b [...] fore there appeared upon the Stage Scene, which many did expect wou [...] follow the Declaration of a Cardinal Patron.

The Pope was resolved to dism [...] [Page 85] Donna Olimpia the Court, but with [...]ood words, as unwilling to disoblige [...]r Ladiship, who was the Idol of his [...]eart. Nay, they say, he did it with [...]ars in his eyes, and the greatest regret imaginable: but yet he did it.

He gave order therefore that D. C­ [...]upia should not only withdraw her self [...]om all his Affairs, Publick or Private, [...]emporal or Spiritual: but for the future [...]ould not presume to come into his [...]resence, or under the roof of his Pa­ [...]ce. Which Injunction was something [...]tigated the next day, permission be­ [...]g given (such is the force of Love) [...] come Incognita and confer with him, which was denyed to those of his own [...]ood. This accident, as it was thought [...]practicable, upon consideration of old [...]ores: so after it came to pass, forced [...]pplause, even from those that hated [...] who were concerned in it.

The Reason that moved the Pope to [...]ke up such a Resolution was diversly [...]ledged. Some would have it that the [Page 86] little Rallies that run daily about th [...] Court, in every corner still playin [...] upon the strange course of Governmen [...] was taken: which Rumours were either concealed from, or at least dissemble by the Pope hitherto; not being resolved what course was best to take t [...] stop the mouths, not only of the Court but of all Christendom; and partic [...] larly of the Protestants in the Northern parts, who made it the greatest pa [...] of their divertisement, to jest upon Donna Olimpia and the Pope: so that th [...] did not only take the liberty of trea [...] ing both the one and the other wi [...] sharp and biting discourse: but a d [...] dainful meen evidenced how firm they believed what they said.

One day amongst the rest was p [...] sented to the Pope a Gold Medal, about ten Pistols value, by the Cardinal Patron: who told him he had receiv [...] in a Letter some Satyrs without a Name and so shewed them to him. Up [...] the one side of this Medal was Donna [Page 87] Olimpia, with the Pope's Mitre upon [...]er head, and S. Peter's Keys in her [...]nd; on the reverse, the Pope, with [...]s head dressed up like a Lady, and a [...]indle and Rock in his hand: a thing [...]at provoked much to the ruine of Donna Olimpia. It is very certain, the Cardinal ought not to have discovered [...], for fear of discomposing his Holi­ [...]ess: but he would shew it to help to [...]e destruction of Donna Olimpia, who [...]ood in competition with him. Thus [...]nder colour of doing his Duty, played [...]e his own game.

It was said the Pope resolved to ba­ [...]ish his Sister-in-law from the Court, upon advice of a certain Comedy that was represented in London before Crom­pel, called The Marriage of the Pope; in which amongst other things was brought in, for sport to the English, and [...]eproach to the Papists, that the Pope desiring to marry Donna Olimpia, and [...]he refusing him, saying, she would not have such a Beastly ugly fellow for her [Page 88] Husband; to win her, offered her Key, which she refused as to mean Present; upon which being resolve to have her, he offered both Key [...] But you must know first, that when h [...] presented her with one, Donna Olimpia asked him whether it was the Key of Hell or Paradise, to which the Pop [...] answering, it was that of Paradise; sh [...] replyed, then give me the other too for you shall not think to have it in you [...] hands when you are weary of me, t [...] command the Devil to take me away Thus when he had presented her wit [...] both Keys, the Wedding was kept an [...] concluded with a Ball of Monks an [...] Nuns, who took great satisfaction t [...] think that it might come to their turn one day to be married likewise.

It was thought by many, that wha [...] helped to widen this breach, was a clos [...] discourse the Emperour had with th [...] Nuntio Melzi, that was at Vienna, wh [...] was condoling with this Prelate the fatal stroke he had received from Rome [Page 89] by the conclusion of Peace with the [...]wedes, without regard had to the Catholick Religion; in defense of which, they ought always to have stood [...]pon their Guard. In so much, that [...]he Emperour could not refrain a sharp [...]esentment of it to the Nuntio, telling [...]im, The Pope hath a brave time of it, [...]ignor Nuntio, for Donna Olimpia to [...]aw his Pate to make him sleep: and so [...]id no more. Melzi after this being [...]ome back to Rome, and urged by [...]he Pope to relate clearly what the [...]mperour had said upon the receipt of [...]is Letter about the accompt of the [...]eace with Sweden, failed not to re­ [...]eat it word for word. This a little [...]akened the Pope, and made him re­ [...]ect, that if he had such checks from Catholick Princes, such as is the Au­ [...]rian Family in Germany: surely he [...]ust expect much more severe from [...]hose that detested his Usurpation.

All these things were enough not [...]nly to shake, but utterly to have ruined [Page 90] Donna Olimpia. And no doubt they they made deep impression in the Pope, however that some will not have it so, but that it was all a Fable of the Cardinals presenting him with the Me­dal. But be it so, it is most assuredly true, that not one but many, both o [...] Gold and Silver were dispersed abou [...] Rome: and probably, he that found a way to coyn them, was ingenious enough to find a way also to convey them to the Pope. Others will hav [...] it, that it was as little true, that such [...] Play was acted before Cromwel, as w [...] spoke of above. We will grant therefore, that it was a meer Invention o [...] the people of Rome, and by consequence much worse: for it must need be a greater mortification to see h [...] own Subjects take the part of Hereticks against him. Neither coul [...] he remain ignorant of ought, fin [...] those that breathed out nothing b [...] destruction to Donna Olimpia, woul [...] leave no stone unturned to make know [Page 91] [...]o the Pope any thing of this nature.

The general opinion is, that Panzicolo was the contriver and instrument of this [...]all. For as he stood always at the Pope's elbow, to wait an occasion of [...]verthrowing that great confidence and [...]ower Donna Olimpia had: this was [...]ffered him, that at that very time he was taxed by the same Lady for a Traytor, one that had undermined the whole house of Panfilio, by preferring [...]o the Pope's favour one that was a [...]tranger to them. Panzicolo therefore [...]ets fall these expressions: That he was much concerned for the misfortune of [...]he great Princes, that they should be [...]he last in resenting the wrong was done [...]hem, and the affronts put upon that majesty they held, putting all up with that patience as seemed monstrous to the world. Thus with a dryness which was natural to him, aggravating the circumstances, he pursued the series of his discourse, and pressed it so home to the Pope, that (being in that distra­ction, [Page 92] and reflecting upon the out-crie [...] and noise the whole world made, together with the insufferable importunity of this Lady; for her too great presumption beyond the bounds of com­mon modesty) he forbad her his Pre­sence and the Court.

There are those that are verily per­swaded, what contributed much to the disgrace of Donna Olimpia, was th [...] discourse of a Royal Embassadour, wh [...] endevoured slily to subvert this Lady not out of any private grudge, but tha [...] he was displeased as a Roman Catholick, to hear so many discourses, to th [...] great scandal of the Church. Talkin [...] therefore one day with the Pope, an [...] being denyed his Request, he mad [...] bold to tell him, Perchance what you [...] Holiness will not do for my King, yo [...] will do it for your Donna Olimpia, [...] whom I now go to make my Addres [...] This he spoke betwixt Jest and Earnes [...] but so, that it cut the Pope to the ver [...] heart. However, he seemed not to tak [...] [Page 93] [...]otice of any thing, but replyed in ge­ [...]eral terms: That not the whole world, much less Donna Olimpia, should re­move him from a just Resolution. The [...]mbassadour gone: he strook his hand [...]pon the Table, and was heard to say, [...]he Devil take all Women, and those that [...]refer them thus. An evident token of [...]he Popes displeasure, that his Autho­ [...]ty should be made so ridiculous [...]hrough means of this Lady. And it is [...]ost certain, the Papal Authority was [...]ever so little respected, as it was in the [...]me of Innocent. The Catholick Prin­ [...]es would often make sport at this new [...]ode of Female Government, because [...]hey saw the Protestant Princes laugh [...]t it. Nay, these would at times bewail [...]he miserable condition of the Romish [...]hurch, because they saw the Catho­ [...]cks themselves do so. Who indeed [...]ould forbear tears, to see that there [...]as no more sending of Embassadours [...]o the Pope, but to Donna Olimpia; no more to the Court, but to a Ladies [...]alace!

[Page 94]One Prince among the rest, of the most considerable in Europe, sent a [...] Extraordinary Embassadour to Rome [...] to whom, after having given him his necessary Instructions, he gave in charge a [...] his last farewel, If by the application of ou [...] Authority, you can make no impressio [...] upon the Pope, endevour to gain him by bribing Donna Olimpia to use her power And it was a reasonable advice: for [...] know by one of the greatest Confident of the Embassadours retinue, that th [...] Business had not been obtained withou [...] great expence.

Cardinal Astalli, after the death o [...] Innocent, hath said in some companies that nothing was said of Donna Olimpi [...] in any part of Europe, that the Pop [...] knew not of, seeming ever to take li [...] tle notice, and to slight all, as only a [...] effect of malice. Thus he bore it ou [...] before others, though he himself wa [...] pricked, as it was evidently seen b [...] the alteration of his countenance. Bu [...] upon advice of a Sermon preached a [...] [Page 95] [...]eneva, wherein Donna Olimpia was [...]entioned: he was so highly disturbed, [...]hat he ate nothing for two days toge­ [...]her, but fretted and vented his cho­ [...]r upon whomsoever was with him. [...]ow he was informed of this Story [...]us.

The Pope's Nuntio's Secretary that [...]as at Paris, by order of his Master [...]turned to Rome, to confer with his [...]oliness about some Affair, that could [...]ot well be committed to a Letter. So [...]on as he had delivered his Errand, [...]d would have taken his leave for the [...]st time: the Pope began to enquire [...] him concerning his Voyage, and by [...]hat way he came from Paris to Rome; [...]pon which the Secretary answered, [...]at he passed Incognito through Gene­ [...]; and what says that rebellious Ci­ [...] of Us? reply's the Pope. The Se­ [...]etary told him, You can expect no [...]odness, most holy Father, from your [...]emies. Well but, says the Pope, [...]hat say they? Then the Secretary [Page 96] thinking himself obliged to tell th [...] truth, and not to lye in the Pope's presence, or whether he had some othe [...] Reason for it; thus told him: Most h [...] ly Father, I stayed but one day in th [...] City, where I observed a greater Civili [...] in the People, than I imagined to ha [...] found. But the more satisfaction I r [...] ceived from without, the greater w [...] my inward mortification: for havi [...] the curiosity to observe the religious Rit [...] of these People, so much contrary to the [...] of Rome: I got my Host to carry me [...] their Church, just at Sermon time. [...] Host told me afterwards the second Pre [...] cher was a Lucchese, of the noble Fami [...] of the Diodati, and was indeed a great [...] ratour. This person, whether he knew a [...] thing of my coming, or that he did it [...] order to the discourse he had formerly pr [...] posed to himself, took for his Text t [...] words of Saint Paul written to Timoth [...] Suffer not a Woman to Teach, neith [...] to rule over the Man. Ʋpon which [...] enlarged, to the great reproach of o [...] [Page 97] [...]hurch of Rome, that suffered it self to [...] governed by a Woman. This was one [...] the most fatal strokes. I cannot tell [...]hether the thing was really so, or that [...]e Secretary invented it; let it suffice [...]at Cardinal Astalli confesseth, this [...]formation took so strongly with the [...]ope, that he verily believes he [...]ok up his Resolution at this instant [...] banish Donna Olimpia from the [...]ourt.

Nevertheless, he that will consider a [...]tle closer the Reason of this disgrace, [...]ill find that the Pope did not this out [...]f dislike or hatred to this Lady, but [...]ther out of extreme kindness, that is, [...] take off the revilings of so many as [...]t themselves against her, and to ap­ [...]ase the murmurings; and too besides [...]t of some politick consideration, that [...]e might be taken for a zealous Pope. [...]ut it was impossible all the world [...]ould be able to perswade that a Ves­ [...] of sowre Vineager was become Mos­ [...]del; and truly it is hard to take a [Page 98] false Work out of a peece of Cloth [...] without spoyling the whole.

That the Pope was not distasted, [...] no difficult matter to believe: For th [...] Evening before he came to this Resul [...] he sent to call Donna Olimpia, wit [...] whom he held conference four or fi [...] hours in private: and it is veril [...] thought the Pope advised her to tak [...] the disgrace of banishment for a litt [...] while from the Court patiently, t [...] such time as the malicious mout [...] should be stopped; and then he pr [...] mised to call her back again, as in e [...] fect he did. Thus the Pope did, [...] Mothers that threaten their Childre [...] all the while they hold them in the [...] arms. He commands Donna Olimp [...] with a loud Voice, that upon any pr [...] tence whatever, she appear not b [...] fore him: but afterwards tells her [...] her Ear, she may come privately; [...] he discards her and calls her at t [...] same time, and forbids her to be se [...] in publick, that he may have her t [...] more to himself.

[Page 99]But the good Man's Plot would not [...]ke: For in stead of stopping the [...]ouths of the malicious, it made them [...]n times worse: and the retirement of [...]nna Olimpia to her Palace, and with­ [...]awing from publick view, made them [...]port about Rome, that the Pope was [...]come Jealous in his old age: and this [...]mour took the more easily, because [...] the more private conveyance of [...]e matter, she went to him for the [...]st part by Night.

Now behold all the Pope's Indigna­ [...]n against Donna Olimpia, and all the [...]sgrace she underwent, during her [...]other-in-law's Reign: which was to [...] him by Night and not by Day, pro­ [...]e Favours in private, and not in [...]blick, and to go to the Vatican for [...] own Interest, and not for that of [...]ers.

And the truth is, this Lady reflecting [...]on what was past, and what would [...]most for her Credit, did for some [...]s forbear to appear publickly: but [Page 100] all this while bated not an Ace of h [...] satisfaction. For though in appearan [...] she seemed a little to be eclipsed: [...] made she all good in secret, hav [...] Audience of his Holiness incognita, a [...] told you before.

In this very nick of time that [...] Pope appeared to cool in his affectio [...] towards Donna Olimpia, he began [...] grow kind towards his own Family a [...] Blood. Who, after threee years [...] nishment, at the Instigation and Di [...] ctions of the Sister-in-law, were be Prince Camillo and his Lady (to ta [...] off the blemish of Unnatural) called [...] to Favour again, upon condition th [...] would expect no great matter of kin [...] ness from their Uncle, who was disp [...] sed to oblige no body but Don [...] Olimpia.

There was no body in Rome t [...] did not come to welcome them hon [...] and that not so much for the Prince, [...] the Princess her sake, who deserved be pityed for many Reasons, havi [...] [Page 101] [...]ceived the highest Injuries, and with [...] gross Affronts to her person, not [...]nly from the Pope and her hair­ [...]ain'd Mother-in-law, but even from [...]er own Husband; that after Hony­ [...]oon was over, he seemed to cool in [...]s affections, though to so fair and no­ [...]e an Object. However, being return­ [...] into Favour and good Reception [...]ith the Pope, though they lived not [...]ery happily together, yet the Princess [...]rryed it so prudently, as to wink at [...] faults. But hardly was Innocent [...]ead, when all broke out to the pre­ [...]dice of them both, as giving occa­ [...]on to the World to put diverse Inter­ [...]retations upon the Rupture.

The little understanding between [...]is unhappy couple fortified the Opi­ [...]on of Donna Olimpia. Who, when [...]ld of the Match, declared not only [...]o the Pope, but to every body, that her [...]on had no inclination at all to marry, [...]ut that the Princess by little tricks and [...]elusions had inveagled him to quit his [Page 102] Cardinals Cap, and marry her, in hop [...] of wearing the Breeches. And this, u [...] on the discovery of their difference [...] got credit every where.

Mean while Cardinal Astalli, I shou [...] say, Cardinal Panfilio enjoyed so abso [...] utely all the Prerogatives, the oth [...] Nephews should have had by right [...] Blood; that the Pope seemed to b [...] kinder to him every day than othe [...] Notwithstanding there was no exce [...] in Favours, as not being in his nature▪ Indeed the Cardinal by Panzicolo's I [...] structions never asked any thing, tha [...] he was not most sure beforehand woul [...] please the Pope. So that many time [...] (this the Cardinal says now) the Pop [...] himself would complain of him, that h [...] was so modest in requesting of Favours, that he asked not those whic [...] of absolute necessity were to be allowed him.

The true Relations of the Pope a [...] this while could take no satisfaction t [...] see one of a strange House so highly i [...] [Page 103] [...]he Pope's favour and they; who [...]hould be so near kept at such a distance. The very sight of this Cardinal did [...]fflict them to that degree; as by their [...]ood wills, they would never come [...] his company, at least would ne­ [...]er seek it. For in despite of them [...]hey were forced to see him, and I [...]ay say, be beholding to him upon se­ [...]eral occasions. Yet they bore not so [...]reat a malice to this adopted Nephew, [...] to Panzicolo: whose destruction they [...]otted Night and Day: imagining [...]erchance by his Fall they should lay [...]e way to open to the overthrow of [...]s Creature.

They met perpetually at Donna [...]limpia's House in Consultation, how [...] bring down Panzicolo. They spent [...]hole Nights many times in quest of [...]is point, each Relation employing [...]s best Rhetorick, and endevouring [...] devise Cabals, and to lay all Designs [...]r the ruine of this Person: but every [...]ing fell out to their dissatisfaction, [Page 104] as not being able to find out a means [...] execute their Propositions. They wer [...] vexed to the heart, to see all their Designs vanish into a wish, insomuch tha [...] some took their Bed upon it for ver [...] madness. To lessen him in the Pope opinion, was not difficult, but impo [...] sible: for his Credit with him had taken too deep root. In fine, they wer [...] never able to hurt such a man, that always walked with his eyes open, an [...] upon even ground. Panzicolo had Wi [...] enough to keep well with the Pope though his frequent Indispositions mad [...] him scarce able to keep upon his Fee [...] The continual Conferences he was use [...] to hold with the Pope till Mid-night had so much broke him, that on [...] would have thought him unfit for an [...] undertaking: and yet he held up s [...] well against the Injuries of Time an [...] Wiles of his Adversaries, that he mad [...] them despair so much as of thinking t [...] attempt the least.

But what the malice of the Pope [Page 105] [...]indred could not effect, Death's dart [...]erformed: Panzicolo dies by the course [...]f nature, while others are endevour­ [...]ng to make him die in the Pope's Fa­ [...]our. This pleased Donna Olimpia so [...]ighly, that the very same day she [...]arched about Rome in triumph. To [...]he first that brought her the News, she [...]nswered, He is dead and I live. The [...]ope took his Death very much to [...]eart, and had the Embassadours came [...]o condole him, not being able to over­ [...]ome his grief for many days. But a­ [...]ove all, the Cardinal-Patron lamented [...]is loss, his eyes gushing out with tears, [...]s ominous to that mischief afterwards [...]efell him.

The day after the Death of this Car­ [...]inal, the Pope's Relations had ano­ [...]her Consultation among themselves in Donna Olimpia's House, in which they [...]hought good in no way to attempt the [...]ssening of the Cardinal-Patron his [...]uthority, or rather his Person; but first [...] work the Pope out of all good con­ceit [Page 106] of the memory of Panzicolo: Fo [...] they could not expect, while the Pop [...] retained any good opinion of him, tha [...] he should ever be perswaded to entertain an ill thought of his Creature.

They all therefore set themselves t [...] this Work. Particularly Donna Olimpi [...] as most concerned, left no stone unturned. At last they had their will and though in his life time they wer [...] never able to put him out of Favour nevertheless, after his Death they prevailed to make him be forgot of th [...] Pope, who layed aside all favoura­ble thoughts he had of him during his life.

An evident token of this, are th [...] Complaints which have been heard from the Pope's own mouth, against the Conduct of Panzicolo: slighting all Bu­sinesses that were left by the said Cardi­nal, nay even to a bitter refusal of what­ever savoured of his memory. Likewise in any Business of small importance (which shewed the nature of the Beast) [Page 107] that Panzicolo had left in his Will to desire to be passed, he would protest [...]gainst it. Many times treating with Embassadours and others, he would say he was cheated by Panzicolo. This discovered the unstable nature of the Pope, who never could keep to one Resolution: but did things not as they [...]ught to be, but upon perswasion.

After the Death of Panzicolo, Donna [...]limpia frequented the Court a little [...]ore, but incognita: beginning by de­ [...]rees to repossess her self of her first [...]ation, and truly she made large steps. The other Relations, that is, Prince [...]anfilio, Prince Ludovisio, and Prince [...]ustiniani, were pretty well in Favour, [...]eing kindly received so far as cost no­ [...]hing. The Princess of Rossano thought [...]range that her Husband was not [...]eated in a more particular man­ [...]er than the rest of the Nephews; [...] being the only person among them, [...]at was of the Blood of the Panfilii: [...]hough in truth he had no reason to [Page 108] complain much of this: since how par­tially soever he carryed himself amongs [...] his Nephews, it was but in appearance▪ For he took order, and would have i [...] so; that in the unclosing of his Fist, a [...] he used to call it, all the most considerable benefits should go to Prince C [...] ­millo: and this he made his whole Bu­siness, and employed the Cardinal-Pa­tron in it too; thus did he give th [...] Substance to one, and to the rest the Shadow. One day as he was busie in assigning I know not what advantage, h [...] was demanded by the Cardinal-Patron whether he would have it given t [...] Prince Panfilio, or Prince Ludovisio; t [...] which the Pope answered, Know yo [...] not that near is my Doublet, but neare is my Shirt? Another time being aske [...] by the same person, which of the [...] three Nephews he had the greate [...] kindness for: he replyed without de [...] mur, We love Prince Justiniani for hi [...] Wifes sake, Prince Ludovisio becaus [...] he is a good Prince, and Prince Panfilio [Page 109] because he is of our Blood.

He gave Donna Olimpia to under­stand several times, but not without a promise to restore her to all her former power, that it was his absolute Will, that she should leave all, or the greatest part of her Acquisitions to her Son. And he had reason: for he well knew the Ladies inclinations were more to her Daughters. Therefore the Pope admired she should think of bestowing her Estate out of the House of Panfilio, which was comprised in that one per­son, who was his Nephew and her Son: [...]ay: he could hardly believe it possible, she should contribute sooner to a half Family, than that which succeeded her in a direct Line.

Donna Olimpia found no small relu­ctancy within her self to do this. How­ever, she durst not openly deny him, for fear he should take it ill: knowing very well there was all the reason for it [...]n the World; and that she was tyed by all the Obligations of Gratitude to con­tribute [Page 110] that to the establishing of th [...] House of Panfilio, under whose protection she had gathered it. Upon which consideration, she promised to do all the Pope desired: as well assured she could leave her Daughters and Grand-children enough besides to make them defie the Devil and all his Works. Thus you may see it was no want of kindness on the Popes side, that made Prince Panfilio be banished: but for the Reasons I told you before, and the ma­lice of the Mother, made him guilty.

The Princess of Rossano collogued with her Mother-in-law all she could: but being against the grain of her ge­nerous temper, she could not crouch so much as the others. She shewed her all respect indeed, yet without own­ing in the least to have her dependance upon her: whereas on the other side, the rest, when they saw her so great with the Pope, resigned themselves wholly up to her disposal.

The Pope thought it impossible for [Page 111] [...]im to subsist without Donna Olimpia: [...] that it was his daily discourse to the Cardinal-Patron her commendations, [...]alling her a Lady of great Prudence. The Cardinal, who saw himself depri­ [...]ed of Panzicolo's help, and perceiving [...]e propensity of the Pope towards his Lady, durst not contradict him in [...]e least, but complyed with his Holiness [...] the praise of Donna Olimpia, that he [...]ight not be guilty of his own ruin. [...]et willingly he would not see her at [...]ourt, as jealous of his own Interest, [...]hen he saw what power she had: who [...]as become more Mistris than ever, [...]oth of the Court, Church, State and [...]ope. The Cardinal had the Honour [...] receive Embassadours: but still they [...]eated with the Pope and Donna Olim­ [...]a. At last, all private Visits were layed [...]de, and she came in and out at plea­ [...]re: the good man forgetting all the [...]squils and Stories that had passed a­ [...]ut the World. But truly it was no [...]nder the Pope should forget Re­ports; [Page 112] when he had forgot himself, as the honour of the Church.

By this time the Pope grown so Old that he was thought uncapable [...] undergoing his Dominion longe [...] The Physitians, whom naturally [...] hated, discovered no other Disease [...] him, than that of Fourscore Years, an [...] the Gout, which by his excellent Di [...] he had carryed off in his Old Age. In th [...] beginning of his Reign, he would [...] have a Physitian wait at his Table, a [...] cording to the usual custom: but w [...] disswaded from it by Donna Olimpi [...] that the Papal Majesty might not see to stand in need of help; though t [...] custom in this case, was more for Maj [...] sty and Greatness, than for any nece [...] sity. His Physitian at last, after Donna Olimpia had advised him to it, prevail [...] with him in his latter days, not to d [...] sturb his Head with any Business: but he had a mind to live any longer, to p [...] his Affairs into some other hands. [...] the Pope, out of a desire to prolong [...] [Page 113] days, flung off all Care, both of Church [...]nd State, referring the first to certain [...]ommittees of Cardinals, and the other [...] Donna Olimpia with the Cardinal-Pa­ [...]on.

However, this Lady was not satisfied, [...] the Oracle of Policy, to give Law [...] State, Church and Court: but she [...]ould dispose of the Spirituality, as [...]e had done formerly: So that many [...]mes the Committees met at her House, [...]efore they went to their ordinary place [...]f Consultation. Though to say the [...]uth, she took cognisance of nothing, [...]t what might bring her in profit: re­ [...]tting Cases that meerly concerned [...]onscience, to the Committees, as the [...]ope had ordained.

It must needs seem an incredible [...]ing to any one that hears it, when I [...]all go about to describe the Industry [...]is Lady used in scraping up Wealth. [...]t the truth is, she saw the Pope in a [...]clining condition, and her self charg­ [...] on all sides with Children, and Grand­children, [Page 114] obliged to leave the bette [...] half to her own Son, and yet resolve [...] to raise the rest to a considerable fo [...] tune: so that the plentiful Revenue [...] the Church could not satisfie her u [...] reasonable appetite. The persecutio [...] of the Barbarini made her suspect, th [...] after the Pope's Death she should [...] be wholly exempt from her share in th [...] like. She well knew the proper Instr [...] ment to qualifie such a misfortun [...] would be store of Money. And th [...] she was the rather induced to believ [...] by having seen the Barbarini persecut [...] to the utmost by the Pope, their [...] inveterate Enemy, with a Sequst [...] tion upon all their Goods: and yet co [...] tinue in Honour and Reputation, out [...] the meer force of a Bank they had pr [...] vided against such an Accident. Ther [...] fore she made the more hast to fill [...] Coffers, upon presumption that [...] would fall more heavy upon her: beca [...] she had nothing else to trust to, havi [...] no body to pity her. The Priso [...] [Page 115] [...]ere full of Innocents, and the Streets [...]f Guilty: the one preventing their [...]onfinement by a price, and the other [...]nstrained to buy themselves out of [...]ison.

There was a Gentleman of Rome, [...]o in confidence of his own integrity, [...]ore that Donna Olimpia should ne­ [...]r touch any of his Money. Now, that [...] might never be obliged to make a [...]tition; he took his Son from a Clerks [...]ffice he was in. Yet could he not keep [...] Oath: For Donna Olimpia hearing it, gave order to a certain Officer to [...]ke it his business to draw him into [...] Net. And he failed not to effect [...] For he ordered a Sbirro, who en­ [...]ged himself I know not how one day [...] Contest with this Gentleman: upon [...]ich the poor Gentleman finding him­ [...]f undervalued so by a Sbirro, gave [...] a box on the Ear or two, and was [...]ryed to Prison for it, and arraigned [...] contempt of Justice, in striking a [...]blick Minister, and so condemned to [Page 116] die. Therefore, to save his Life, h [...] was not only obliged to present Donna Olimpia with a Purse, but likewise [...] pay a considerable sum into the Exchequer.

This was the Lady that perswade the Pope in no wise to meddle with th [...] Treaty of Peace between the Christia [...] Princes; that is, between the Crow [...] of France and Spain, upon whose agre [...] ment depended all the rest.

Popes are used immediately aft [...] their Installment, to dispatch Nunti [...] extraordinary to Princes, to sollici [...] with all earnestness an universal Pea [...] sparing no pains or cost to effect it. I [...] nocent, contrary to all the rest, w [...] pleased to see them in pieces; layi [...] aside not only the consideration of Universal Father, but all good Policy

It will not be from our purpose h [...] to propose a pretty Case, something [...] lating to this. Two Porters were Fifty-cuffs one day about some Di [...] rence that happened between the [Page 117] [...]nd it chanced to be under the Pope's Windows, where he was standing at the [...]me instant. Some there were that would [...]ave parted them; but the Pope forbad [...], giving order they should let them fight [...] out. They, according to the custom of [...]uch sort of people, after having fought [...]bout half an hour, gave over of them­ [...]elves, and made Peace without any In­ [...]ercession. Then the Pope turned to [...]anzicolo (who was living at that [...]ime, and stood by him) telling him, So [...]ill the French and Spaniard do: when [...]hey are weary of beating one another, they will agree of themselves without Help or [...]mportunity of others. And indeed he [...]rophesied truly: for afterwards we [...]aw them do so.

Hence we may gather how little a friend the Pope was to Peace. But ma­ [...]y excuse him by laying the fault upon Donna Olimpia: who counselled the Pope to let them alone to themselves, [...]nd save the charges of so many ex­ [...]raordinary Nuntio's; making sure to [Page 118] herself all that should be saved upo [...] that occasion; and she had her will.

The Popes Nephews perceiving th [...] avarice of this Lady: would not, [...] hopes of large shares at her Death, sto [...] her Career, but rather furthered he [...] in all she ordered and disposed. It wa [...] a wonderfull thing to see a Woman [...] Threescore years of Age toyl so nigh [...] and day, treating with this and t'othe [...] running up and down, without eve [...] giving the least appearance of bein [...] tyred, answering all that came to he [...] in proper terms. Though whoeve [...] came empty handed, was neither we [...] come, nor well looked upon.

How shall we say Donna Olimpia governed herself in regard to the Princ [...] of Christendom? It is certain this, the [...] had all reason to commend and bewa [...] themselves at the same time. For wha [...] partiality soever the Pope had for on [...] more than another: Donna Olimpia, e [...] ther out of fear of making Enemies a [...] home, or being at too great expence [Page 119] brought the good man not only to be Neuter, but to have such an indiffe­ [...]ency for even the most weighty Affairs of Princes: that, whereas other Popes esteemed it greatness to have the most [...]mportant Affairs of Christendom in their hands; Innocent, on the contrary, ne­ver thought he spent a day worse, than when he was to give Audience to Em­bassadors. But why should she make the Pope so lazy? Why not rather did she [...]ounsel him to attempt great matters for the advance of his Authority, Cre­ [...]it and Renown far and near? A Prince [...]hat will acquire a great name; must [...]reat with all Princes, and thrust him­ [...]elf into all Businesses abroad. This was [...]he course those Popes observed that [...]ought the name of Universal Fa­ [...]her. But Innocent was the only he, that [...]ook the course rather to be considered [...]s a private Gentleman, than so great [...] Prince. And in truth, Donna Olimpia made him let slip the fairest opportuni­ [...]es of immortalizing his Name, as it [Page 120] may be ever any Pope will have again. Had Ʋrban been alive at the time of the Revolutions at Naples in the Year 1647. things had gone at another rate (and all for the better too) for the ad­vantage of the Church. A Pope that will interest himself in all publick and particular Concerns of Princes, carries a great Reputation and stroke in the World, it is true: but it is as true, that it cannot be done without great ex­pence, as well in receiving as sending o [...] errands. Wherefore it is no marvel i [...] Innocent, contrary to all others, littl [...] regarded such Honour: when he had Donna Olimpia with him, who valued a hundred Crowns in her Purse, mor [...] than the expectation of eternal Glory▪ But Popes must not often have such Counsellors, if we would have Christianity flourish.

The Emperour could procure no other help, then a few Indulgencies. S [...] that abandoned on every side, he was forced upon all disadvantage to make up [Page 121] Peace with the Swede, to the great loss [...]f the Roman Religion. The Spaniards [...]d flat Denyals upon all Demands, [...] the grief and complaint of Conte d'O­ [...]atte and il Duca dell' Infantado, who [...]ere Embassadours at Rome in the time [...]f Innocent, and who received gross [...]ffronts from that Court. The French [...]quired nothing, keeping off like out- [...] [...]wed persons for some time: and not [...]ithout grounds. For if the Spaniard [...]at had made him Pope, could obtain [...]othing, the French certainly had small [...]ason to expect favour, who had [...]pposed his Election. So that they [...]d well to stand off. The Duke of [...]avoy, during the time of Innocent, [...]retended to forget those distastes, [...]hich had formerly provoked the [...]uke and Dutchess to withdraw their [...]mbassadour from Rome: but they [...]ere much out, if they thought to get [...]y thing by it; unless you will say the [...]uke got enough for the time he had [...] enjoy it. However Donna Olimpia [Page 122] had a great desire to see a Cardina [...] Cap promised to one of Prince Tomas [...] Sons, that she might as much as poss [...] ble disappoint a House, so ill affecte [...] to hers, of Heirs. This the Pope yielde to: but because neither Duke nor Du [...] chess had a hand in it, it fell to nothing The Duke thought (and will ever, an [...] not without reason) that the greatne [...] of his House did an honour to the Colledge of Cardinals: and therefore pr [...] tended without more ado, that h [...] Bloud gave him title enough to such Creation. And the rather, since Ca [...] dinal Mauritio had out of a Capric [...] against the Church renounced his Ca [...] the Church ought to restore it to th [...] Nephew as due. But these considerations took no place in Rome, whe [...] Cardinals are made according to the inclination to the Interest of the prese [...] Pope. They say her Royal Highne [...] stopped a Prelates mouth, that proposed this Business to her, with this a [...] swer, A Hat of a Ladies presenting, w [...] [Page 123] [...]e too heavy for the Head: intimating [...]hereby, that she would not be behold­ing to Donna Olimpia; taxing the Pope [...]t the same time of Effeminacy.

The great Duke was not so scrupu­ [...]us, after he had been so often disob­ [...]ged. For when he found them stalled [...] the making up the Agreement with [...]he Duke of Parma: he struck in with [...]e Opportunity that offered it self, [...]rocuring another red Hat to his Fa­ [...]ily, that his party might be the strong­ [...] against the next Election. He never [...]quired whether Donna Olimpia or the [...]ope gave it. And herein he did wise­ [...]: as indeed the great Dukes know [...]ow to deal with the Priests, being [...]eir near Neighbours; and make no [...]reat matter of their Affronts.

Donna Olimpia carryed her self in a [...]iddle way towards the Venetians. For [...] she knew that Common-wealth was [...]ther of the receiving, than the giving [...]nd with the Church: so she well un­ [...]derstood nothing kept them off better, [Page 124] than observing a distance. Yet toward her latter end she expressed great kin [...] ness to them: in hopes of protection, [...] any misfortune (that is, Persecution should attend her. The Genouese, wh [...] promised themselves great matters [...] Ʋrban's time, in order to their Titl [...] and Royal Prerogatives, upon the co [...] pliance of the Barbarini with their d [...] sire, out of hopes of getting a sum [...] Money; when they saw how they we [...] deluded by them, applyed themselv [...] to Innocent: but they found he wou [...] not hear on that Ear, not so much to put them in the Hopes that Ʋrb [...] did. Desponding therefore, they ca [...] led home their Embassadour, who la [...] at Rome for that purpose. Neverthel [...] being resolved to compass their end after having withdrawn their Minist [...] from Rome for some time: they se [...] him again, with greater assurance fro [...] Donna Olimpia's side, than former [...] they had had from the Pope. So th [...] gave Instructions to their Embassado [...] [Page 125] [...] treat with this Lady: who, as some [...]ill have it, was the person that put [...]he Genouese upon sending back a new [...]mbassadour, putting them in Hopes [...]f bringing their Business about again [...] some purpose. Nor did she this with­ [...]ut Design: assured of a very great [...]ain; because they were able to make [...] good, and desirous to do it upon the [...]ccomplishment of their Suit. Truly [...]he Lady was very zealous in the Busi­ [...]ess, and pursued it heartily: upon which, the Genouese, to advance the Work, sent her no small Presents, to [...]ake her the more vigorous in their [...]ffair. The Court seemed to be for [...]; and Venice, which was the likeliest [...]o oppose it, seemed to be willing to [...]et it pass, as not considerable enough [...]o impair any of their Dignity. But [...]hey met with so many other Rubs and [...]mpediments, that came out of Germa­ny, Italy and France: that the Gran­ [...]ees of Genoua thought fit to desist, [...]o their no little Discontent, that they [Page 126] had cast so many Presents away upo [...] Donna Olimpia.

Lucca was the only place not talke of in the time of Innocent: as being o [...] no great consequence for the streight­ness of their Confines. So that the had not enjoyed so much Peace for long time, as under this Pope. An [...] Donna Olimpia would take occasion se­veral times to reprove the Barbarini, fo [...] prosecuting so fiercely the Ruine of [...] poor little Common-wealth, that ha [...] deserved so well of the Church. How ever, this was not said on free-cost: be­cause the Lucchesi had provoked he with a Present.

Now to come near a conclusion o [...] the great Industry of Donna Olimpia I say, that the nearer the Pope's Deat [...] aproached, the greater was her affli­ction to find her self alone, and desti­tute of those necessary supports a per­son in her condition required. She knew very well none of her party would be able to do her any service if Ad­versity [Page 127] should come upon her: and she [...]as pretty well assured to have her [...]are of it, considering her passed A­ [...]ions. To see all her Relations discon­ [...]ented, her own Son so ill used by her [...]lf, and all the Nobility of Rome dete­ [...]ing her very Name: made her reflect [...]ght and day upon her Condition. The [...]rincess of Rossano her Daughter-in-law, [...]aving so near Relation to the Duke of [...]arma, made her, if not fear, at least and upon her Guard: And the rather, [...]ecause the Princess apprehending to [...]hat height the daily disgusts betwixt [...]er and her Husband might at last come [...], very wisely thought upon fortify­ [...]g her Interest in her own defence, such [...] would be a Cardinal Prince of her [...]indred, that should own his prefer­ [...]ent immediately from her. To which [...]d she employed all her Wits to get [...] the Duke of Parma's Brother, her [...]ear Kinsman, to be Cardinal. But Don­na Olimpia opposed it for the same rea­ [...] under-hand: that she might not be­come [Page 128] too powerful. Thus was the D [...] ­sert of this Prince wholly layed aside Therefore Donna Olimpia did expe [...] both Prince and Daughter-in-law to [...] at open defiance with her, after Inn [...] cent's Death.

To deliver her self of all these Inco [...] ­veniencies which threatned her Ruin [...] it came into her Head to play a Ga [...] should hardly be believed, when it w [...] done. And that was to propose an A [...] ­liance with the Barbarini: whereby [...] oblige them with so near a Tie, not on to forget passed Injuries, but to sta [...] her Friends in future Occurrence

The Barbarini were in despair of [...] ­ver having so fair an Occasion offer [...] them as was, never expecting to [...] reconciled to Innocent, it being th [...] eight years the Persecution had be [...] upon them. So that Donna Olimpia m [...] with no difficulty in her Design. Fo [...] the Barbarini had tryed a thousand ways to be reconciled, and could n [...] ­ver compass it: upon which they we [Page 129] not backward, when an honour was of­ [...]red. Cardinal Antonio was more glad [...]f this Conjuncture than the rest: ha­ [...]ng been banished for the space of [...]ght Years from his own House, from Rome; nay, out of Italy; and forced [...] live in Forain Parts at so great an [...]xpence, as (besides the Suspention of his Revenues, which he had in the Church) had cost him some Millions, [...]sing also the charge belonging to the [...]rimogeniture.

Donna Olimpia therefore having a [...]aughter of her own, and Prince Ju­ [...]niani's Wife another marryageable: [...]oked upon this as the only Means to [...]ing about her Designs. These her [...]tentions she made be broke to [...]ardinal Francesco Barbarino, with a [...]omise, that if the Barbarini would [...]nsent to a Match for their Nephew [...]ith Justiniani's Daughter, she would [...]store them to all again, upon condi­ [...]on that should serve for the Portion. [...]nd so it did.

[Page 130]The Barbarini looked upon this as a Blessing to their House, which w [...] somewhat low at present. For the doubted; if Innocent should die, wh [...] ther his Successor would restore the Revenues, but rather keep them f [...] his own Relations, as Innocent ha [...] done, and so they should utterly be di [...] ­appointed. They therefore made [...] other answer, but that they should [...] happy in such an Honour. Donna Olimpia had designed the Match to be with t [...] Eldest Son of Don Tadeo: but the Ba [...] barini, though very earnest to ha [...] the thing done, yet managed the B [...] siness so cunningly, as to pretend t [...] Eldest was resolved to be a Cardinal, relinquish his Birth-right to the Abb [...] and take the Abbey himself. And tru [...] it was discreetly done: For by th [...] means they were restored, and got [...] nother Cardinals Cap into their Fa [...] ly. Donna Olimpia easily agreed to i [...] as being desirous to fortifie her sel [...] which she thought she could not [Page 131] better, than by fortifying that House [...]he had allyed her self to; nor could [...]hey better secure their Interest, than [...]y having another Cardinal in their [...]amily, who made the third. A thing [...]ever seen before, three Cardinals of [...]he same House living at a time.

All being concluded, and the Wed­ [...]ing kept in great state, and to the [...]stonishment of all men, to see such a Change: the next Creation that came, [...]he elder Brother was made Cardinal. Thus the Barbarini got off; which was [...]eir principal Concern. For if they [...]ad not dispatched their Business now: [...]he next Pope would not have failed [...]o have given them work enough; [...]hich labour they now saved.

Returned into Favour, the Pope [...]ave them very great respect: and to­ [...]ether with Donna Olimpia, they go­ [...]erned all the Church Affairs of Im­portance. Now for the Damage they [...]uffered through eight Years Absence: [...]n two Years and upwards that Innocent [Page 132] lived afterwards, it is most certain they had licked themselves so whole a­gain by having been formerly expe­rienced in the Government and manne [...] of that Climate, that you could not find where they had been hurt.

No man ought to wonder, that th [...] Pope should so easily condescend to the Creation of another Cardinal Barbari­no, or that they should presume to de­mand it over and above the Honour o [...] so great a Match, and restauration to all their Revenues: since there was al [...] the reason in the World for it. And will tell you how.

It is an ancient and common practice among the Popes, for the Successor to relinquish his Cardinalate to the Kin­dred of his Predecessor, from who [...] he had first received his own. Now In­nocent, who was created Cardinal by Ʋrban the Eighth a Barbarin, stood obliged to relinquish his Cardinalat [...] so soon as made Pope, to the House o [...] the Barbarini; that is, to create [...] [Page 133] Cardinal at their Instance. The Bar­barini did not forget to make the De­mand for their Nephew the Abbot: but the good Innocent, hardened and incen­sed against them, would never hearken to it. So that upon the Reconcilement [...]y the Match, it was no longer to be deferred, as being so clearly due.

The Barbarini drove on another De­signe with this Marriage, which they had long sought for and desired: and that was to match with some free Prin­ces. And truly for many Years with promises of large Sums they could ne­ver bring it about; till after they were [...]allyed to Donna Olimpia, and then they marryed their Niece to the Duke of Modena, a Prince of noble descent. This came easily to the Barbarines: be­cause the Duke seeing them returned into Favour, and in a rising Condition, expected great matters from them; be­sides that he was a little straitned at that time, and wanted Money. However, the Barbarini gave no other Portion [Page 134] with their Niece, but the resignation e [...] the Abbey of Nonantola, which Cardinal Antonio presented to Cardina [...] Este, Brother to the Duke of Moden [...] being worth some twenty thousan [...] Crowns a Year.

Behold the Revolutions of the Barbarini under Innocent and Donna Olimpia: dead and raised again, cast dow [...] and exalted beyond the fear of Fortune's vicissitude. They say it wa [...] pleasant, to see their near Combination and Friendship with Innocent: whe [...] committed the greatest part of his Affairs, as well Spiritual as Temporal to their management; by which means having not forgot their old wont o [...] heaping up Riches, they gathered a fast as they could, both for themselves and Donna Olimpia, whom they instru­cted with new Devices to get Money on all hands.

The better to fortifie the House and Person of Donna Olimpia; the Barbari­ni advised her to marry another of her [Page 135] Nieces to some other great Roman Lord. But her Design reached farther: [...]or thinking her self secure enough with the alliance of the three Barbarini, he had proposed to her self the conti­ [...]uance of Dominion, through a confi­ [...]ence of meeting with some opportu­ [...]ity to match her Niece with the Ne­phew of the next Pope, by giving a good round Sum. This made her she would not hear of bestowing her Niece, [...]s looking upon it very feisable, and a good way, if not so entirely, in part at [...]east to continue her power: well knowing, that the Idol of Rome is rea­ [...]ly Money, without dispute. But this Design did not take.

There were that put her in the head of marrying her to the Duke of Parma, with a promise to make his Brother Cardinal, and a large Sum of ready Money. But this was a subject rather for discourse than practice: because it [...]s certain, the Duke would never have [...]greed to such a Match, though ori­ginally [Page 136] he came from the Church himself.

So soon as the Barbarini were full restored, the Authority of the Card [...] nal-Patron began to decline apace insomuch, that some Embassadou [...] would not lose so much time, as t [...] treat with him, whose address the knew was no longer welcome to th [...] Pope. Besides, the Pope was so we satisfied with the Assistance of the Ba [...] barini, that he disclosed all the secre [...] of his Heart to them: being confide [...] of success, through the great experienc [...] these had gained by the manageme [...] of so many several Affairs, which ha [...] succeeded to them for two and twent [...] Years together under the Reign o [...] their Uncle. And therefore he left n [...] more but the shadow of Power an Command to his adopted Nephew dispatching all by the Barbarini. Th [...] worst for this Cardinal was, that excep [...] his ordinary Emoluments, which migh [...] be worth to him some fifty thousan [...] [Page 137] Crowns a year, attended with no small [...]xpence, he had not the opportunity [...]o get one farthing to lay up; so nar­ [...]owly did Donna Olimpia watch his [...]ater. For the poor man had made [...] little money once of a vacant Bene­ [...]ce: and Donna Olimpia having smelt [...]t out, run open mouth to the Pope to [...]omplain of him, that he had presumed [...]o lay hands upon that he had nothing [...]o do with; upon which the Pope com­manded him to refund all presently to [...]he said Lady. The same Cardinal re­ [...]ated this to me, just as I tell you: only [...]hat he told me so much more, as would [...]equire Siri's pen to set it all down. The [...]arbarini looked not with a good eye [...]pon this Card. Patron: not out of any [...]mmediate hatred to him, but because [...]e was Panzicolo's creature, whom they [...]ad had a perfect aversion for. There­fore they disparaged him, to the Pope from time to time, as one that under­ [...]tood not the place he held: and indeed made it appear by evident demonstra­tions [Page 138] enough. All this while Don [...] Olimpia was not wanting to contri [...] his ruine, as neither the Pope's natur [...] Nephews, who all conspired to h [...] overthrow. So that the poor Cardin [...] stood betwixt Hawk and Buzzard, e [...] pecting on each hand to be made a pr [...] of every moment, little relying upo [...] his authority, when he saw how co [...] the Pope grew towards him, and ho [...] warm in his kindness to the Barbarin [...] However he abated proportionably his respect to Donna Olimpia, as he foun [...] the Pope indifferent towards him. B [...] to the Barbarini he was not only civ [...] but obsequious, paying them the gre [...] test honour imaginable, with all expresions of affection upon every encounte [...] to procure their good will: but the devices are so stale in Rome, that [...] body heeds them any more. Ever [...] body knows that in this Countrey me do reverence to the ground in th [...] morning to those they could willingl [...] see hanged in the afternoon: so tha [...] [Page 139] [...]servance, courtship, reverence, salutes [...]d kissing of the hand in the Roman [...]ourt, are performed by the eye and [...]t the heart. The Barbarini had been [...]o long trained in that School to be [...]oved at those ceremonies the Cardinal [...]atron bestowed upon them: and [...]erefore they payed him in the like [...]yn, not from the heart, but with [...]e service; which sweet they omitted [...]t to embitter with such a seasoning as [...]ould poyson his fortunes. And they [...]d their desire to the satisfaction of [...]emselves, Donna Olimpia, and all the [...]ope's kindred.

As the interest of the Cardinal-patron as thus dwindling away, his hidden [...]nemies were not backward to give [...]e fatal blow: which to the great [...]tonishment of all Rome was publickly one. For the Pope in great wrath [...]gainst the person of this Cardinal, [...]undred out such storms of indigna­ [...]on against him, that one would have [...]ought greater could not have been [Page 140] sentenced upon one guilty of Hi [...] Treason. He forbid him his presence the most disgraceful manner: comman [...] ed that upon no pretence whatever, should be permitted to approach t [...] Court: took away from him the Ti [...] of Cardinal-Patron: deprived him that of Nephew, with express or [...] that he should no more be called Pafilio, but Astalli: Sequestred his Rev [...] nues, and all the Offices and Prefe [...] ments he held: and at last banished h [...] from the City of Rome, with a restrai [...] from taking any of his Moveables [...] way. These Extravagances made so [...] laugh, and others complain: thou [...] from so unexpected an advance, [...] thing could be expected less, than a m [...] and hasty Destruction, such as this w [...]

The noise of this was no soon spread about the City, and Cardin [...] Astalli stole privately away, out [...] shame to be seen in a condition so d [...] ferent from his former: but the [...] mans, according to their usual custo [...] [Page 141] would needs find out the ground of all [...]is. Some ascribed it to the ambition [...] the Barbarini, that they might di­ [...]ose wholly of the Pope, whom they [...]d got into their hands: others layed [...] the fault upon Donna Olimpia, who [...]uld endure no Competitor or Assi­ [...]nt in gathering up her Wealth: nor [...]nted there such as verily believed [...]e Pope himself had taken occasion to this thing, that towards his latter [...]d he might be reconciled to his true [...]ephews, who were much offended [...] him for creating an adopted Ne­ [...]ew. There is something of Reason [...] each of these Opinions to prevail [...]th us: but the chief ground of this [...]eformation came from another [...]urce; the Pope being inclined to it [...]on more intricate and deep conside­ [...]ions, such as were these following.

In the time of Ʋrban their Uncle, the [...]rbarini were grown so high, that they [...]ought, after so long a Reign, to do [...]racles; nor could they with patience [Page 142] read that Sistus quartus, Paulus terti [...] Alexander the sixth, Clement the [...] venth, and so many other Popes, whi [...] did not continue half the time th [...] Uncle had then dated, yet should co [...] pass their wishes to that degree, as leave great and free Princes of th [...] posterity; and they after so long Reign, and with a greater treasure cou [...] not overcome that difficulty of maki [...] themselves free Princes. They direct all their thoughts to that Design, a [...] with the Prospective Glasses of th [...] ambition daily surveyed all Italy. Th [...] thought they had Ʋrban sure, [...] ter the Duke was dead without He [...] in the Year 1631. But when that D [...] sign failed them, they cast their e [...] upon Luca, where they met with ru [...] before they had begun their Proje [...] Afterwards the War with the Duke Parma coming on, they concluded th [...] had gained their purpose by resolvi [...] to drive the Farnesi out of their Pr [...] cipality by main force: however th [...] [Page 143] [...]und it requisite to desist from that [...]nterprise, for fear of draining their [...]urse too much. At last, they fixed [...]heir eyes upon the Kingdom of Naples, [...] likely to meet with better Fortune in [...]e Acquisition of a Crown, than that [...]f Principalities. Now as they were [...]ontriving to out the King of Spain, and [...]vest themselves of Naples, Ʋrban dies, [...]nd soon after succeeds the Election of [...]nnocent: and then they had enough [...] do to save their own lives without [...]oking after Crowns, which their am­ [...]tion only gave them Title to. Cardi­ [...]l Antonio returned to Rome, and all [...]e Barbarini into Favour with Inno­ [...]nt, they began to torment his decre­ [...]t Carcass with the suggestions of con­ [...]uering the Kingdom of Naples, not [...]ithout reproaching him for letting [...]p so fair an occasion in the Year 1647. [...] the time of Mas' Anello's Revolt. The [...]eclining estate of the Spaniard, made [...]em suppose the attempt more feisable [...]an they themselves could compre­ [...]end.

[Page 144]The Pope, doting with Age, readi [...] consented to the Design. Donna Olimpia expecting to have the largest sha [...] for her Nephews and Sons, was reso [...] ved to contribute a considerable Su [...] of ready Money: and the Barbarini e [...] gaged to maintain an Army of t [...] thousand Men at their own Cost, till th [...] Church should be absolutely in possess [...] on; only upon condition that the Princ [...] pality of Salerno should remain exemp [...] from the other Dominions to the Hou [...] of the Barbarini, with a freedom [...] pretence to buy in other with the Money. The truth is, finding this Kingdom so spacious, and full of Principalities; they thought not only to ma [...] their Nephews, but all their Foot-Boy Princes. Thus furiously doth Ambitio [...] drive.

These Transactions were carrye [...] with great secrecy betwixt the Pop [...] the Barbarini, Donna Olimpia, and som [...] of her nearest Relations. The Card [...] nal-Patron was judged unfit to be take [...] [Page 145] [...] as one that discovered too much in­ [...]ination towards the Spaniard: and so [...] was wholly excluded from such [...]onferences. However, they could [...]t be so close, but that the Cardinal [...]d a mistrust of it; which made him [...]dustrious to discover the bottom; [...]d that no sooner done, but to give [...]oof of his Fidelity to Spain; and [...]thall to be revenged of the Barbari­ [...], who would not trust him; he gave [...] exact Accompt to the Spaniard, with [...]hom he held a streight League of [...]iendship.

Monsignor Azzolini was at that time [...]er the Briefs, which is a charge of [...]eat Importance, Trust and Secrecy: [...] that he was likewise privy to the [...]ot we spoke of before. The Pope [...] sooner understood that the Spaniard [...]d sifted all out, and by consequence [...]ew his Design; but he presently [...]ve order to Azzolini, to use all dili­ [...]nce possible, to find out who had re­ [...]aled the Business: with an assurance [Page 146] of a Cardinals Cap, so soon as he shoul [...] discover the Traitour. Azzolini tempted by this invitation, set to his tas [...] which in plain language is a Spie: ar [...] with little noise and great indust [...] found out the Traitour, intimating privately to the Pope, making it ev [...] dent to him the treachery of his adop [...] ed Nephew, as being the Person th [...] had revealed this Secret. For whi [...] Cause, the Pope used Cardinal Ast [...] so ill, as he did: and made Azzoli [...] Cardinal in recompense of this Service the first Promotion that fell after th [...] Accident. Thus of these two Youths t [...] one as Traitour, was in disgrace wi [...] the Pope; the other as Spie, good Cardinals Cap; and one way or oth [...] both remain Cardinals.

Upon this, Donna Olimpia finding [...] Brother-in-law quite decayed as it we [...] with the Age of fourscore Years, whi [...] is considerable for a Gouty person, w [...] had continually a world of Cares up [...] him; or whether it was that the Po [...] [Page 147] himself, sensible of his own failings and [...]ay of parts, with the loss of his Tast; [...]prehending least the Spaniards, in­ [...]sed against him, should procure his [...]ath, by some little preparation they [...] used to provide for such as they not confide in; and not knowing to [...]om better to commit his Life, than that dear Kinswoman, for whose [...]e he had forfeited the reputation of [...] Person, and the honour of the [...]arch he resolves to call her into the [...]ace, and put himself intirely into [...] hands, and the discretion of her [...]duct. A thing altogether new, not [...]r heard of before; that Ladies [...]ald govern Popes. Though to me [...]ems not at all strange: that the same [...]y which had commanded him in his [...]th, should take care of him in his [...] Age.

A pretty sight, they say, it was to Donna Olimpia in the Pope's Cham­ [...] constantly by his Bed-side, holding [...] of his hands between hers: for he [Page 148] was not able for weakness to fit up. S [...] had so contrived Curtains to be dra [...] at the side of the Bed, that she co [...] see without being seen, and hear wi [...] out being perceived. And this she [...] to withdraw her self at any time, wh [...] the Pope gave Audience to Embas [...] dours, who should not be able to u [...] a word that this concealed Lady wo [...] not be privy to: though often times Veil was taken off, and she would answer herself in behalf of the langu [...] ing Pope, to the no small affliction of Embassadours.

This Lady fed the Pope with own hands, having given much [...] cter order than usual, that no b [...] should come into the Pope's Kit [...] unless she were by, only the Cook h [...] self. Most commonly she made a li [...] Table be drawn to the Bed-s [...] where she dined with the Po [...] though she would never admit her [...] Son to that Honour. In fine, there [...] no more talk in the Palace, but of Donna [Page 149] Olimpia, Donna Olimpia here, and Donna Olimpia there, all Letters deli­ [...]red to Donna Olimpia; it was Donna Olimpia that perused them: the Memo­ [...]s were no longer brought to the [...]pe, but to Donna Olimpia, who told [...]n the Contents of them, and had al­ways this Duplicate for Answer, Fate [...], fate voi; as much as to say, Pray [...] you look after it.

A man could see nothing but Pre­ [...]ts still going up the Vatican Stairs: [...] you never saw any come back a­ [...]n. Every two or three days, you [...]uld meet three or four Porters load­ [...] with Money. At night Donna Olim­pia would slip out to visit her own Pa­ [...]e: having first locked up the Pope's Chamber, and taken the Key with her.

All the Pope spoke with, he told [...]em plainly, that but for Donna O­limpia he should be dead, and that he [...]ed his Life to her. The Princess of [...]stano came into the Pope's Chamber [...]e day to visit him, while Donna Olim­pia [Page 150] sate upon the Bed by him, holdi [...] him by the hand. The Princess in t [...] middle of their discourse finding a [...] opportunity, said laughing to the Po [...] Most holy Father, I am jealous to see y [...] make so much of my Mother-in-law th [...] is old, and not of me that am so mu [...] younger. The Pope seeming to h [...] up the Humour, answered her merri [...]. The hand that wounded me, is that wh [...] gives me relief. Words that howev [...] meant, confirmed the Princess in t [...] suspicion she had of these two.

At last Donna Olimpia grew so sus [...] cious that any body should come ne [...] him, as she would not leave him a m [...] ment, though her own Son or Re [...] tions were in the room. Having th [...] made herself a Prisoner, she was seen more to pass the streets of Rome, not much as to go in Devotion to a Church: only, as I told you, sometim [...] she would steal out to her own Pala [...] by night to turn over her Bags.

Her keeping so close to the Pop [...] [Page 151] and by consequence her not appearing [...]broad, made the Courtiers interpret [...] not her care of the Pope, but fear of [...]he People: who as soon as ever they [...]w her, would set a running after her Coach, crying Bread, Bread. Insomuch, [...]hat one day she had much ado to save [...]er Life. For the people, enraged to [...]ave one continual Famine last all over [...]he City and Territory of Rome, be­ [...]des so many other grievances, which produced nothing but the embellishing [...]f a few streets with Fountains, and [...]e satiating Donna Olimpia's thirst af­ [...]er Gold: as they saw her Coach pass [...]y, they came up to it in a rude and [...]solent manner, calling her a thousand Whores; so that she was fain to make [...]er escape into a Covent, and after­wards to the Popes Palace, leaving it [...]o his Holiness to qualifie them by a [...]ole of some quantity of Bread. After [...]his affront, she was ashamed to appear [...] publick: besides that she mistrusted [...] meet with some worse misfortune. [Page 152] Notwithstanding the people ceased not to exclaim daily against her, singing scurrilous Ballads of her all night about the streets. Nay, I must tell you a great company of the Rabble got into her House one day in a great Fury and were going to pillage it, if th [...] Pope had not presently in prevention sent some Bishops to disperse a thousand or more of Crowns to be scrambled for by the people, which with large promises quieted them for the present.

She would have made her peac [...] with all the Malecontents towards th [...] latter end of her Brother-in-law: but that her greediness after Riches would not let her think of the means of doin [...] it. Besides, that she presumed to b [...] well enough fortified by the alliance o [...] the Barbarini: having Wealth enoug [...] to defie Fortune. She was a litt [...] concerned, that she had any differenc [...] with Cardinal Sforza, for the displeasure she had done him: not out of an [...] fear she had directly of his person; b [...] [Page 153] [...]ecause she knew him to be a man of a [...]urbulent Spirit, and easily provoked [...] talk; so she doubted, when Innocent [...]as dead, he might by his discourse procure her more trouble.

This Cardinal, who is yet alive, and hath a Genious, fitter for a Souldier, man a Priest, was made Chamberlain [...] Cardinal Antonio's place, which [...]arrys profit as well as great Honour along with it. But according to his [...]ree way of speaking, he began to in­ [...]eigh openly against Donna Olimpia, not being able to mention her but with [...]reat bitterness in all company, to the [...]reat disparagement of her person: so [...]hat she was necessitated to disgrace [...]im with the Pope, and oblige him to [...]etire to his Church of Rimini, where [...]e is Bishop. There was nothing at his time terrified Donna Olimpia so much, as this Cardinals tongue: and she would most readily have obliged him, upon condition he would have left off [...]is murmuring kind of Musick. But when [Page 154] she considered one of that Kidney w [...] never to be won, either with Gifts, Promises, or Hopes: she changed her Note [...] and made as if she was not concerned a [...] him; about which time Innocent died▪

After the Month of September in the Year 1654. the Pope began to decline past hopes. With the vigour of h [...] body, the faculties of his mind began [...] fail him, insomuch as he forgot by nigh [...] what he had done in the morning, an [...] many times talked idly. Upon which Donna Olimpia suffered him to be seen a [...] little as possible, even to his best Friend [...] and when she could not hinder the admittance of an Embassadour, she entreated him to use as few words as might be; ever pretending that he had no [...] Rested well that night, to make the [...] think his distemper came from want o [...] sleep, and not decay of Spirits.

Prince Camillo, otherwise called Panfilio, removed his Habitation to th [...] Court, that is the Vatican, to receive the Audience of the Embassadours [Page 155] But they made little address, seeing the Popes condition, and that nothing ever came to a Result, but still put off with this answer: that they must wait for the Recovery of a decayed, dying Pope. The Princess likewise came to Court with her Husband; but did not appear publickly, and for the most part continued in her own Palace all the day time. In short, the Ladies were seen walk up and down the Vatican by Night. The Princess Justiniani, the Princess Ludovisi, and the Princess Pan­silia, came in all one Night, to the high displeasure of Donna Olimpia. Howe­ [...]ver, this great Concourse of Women was observed only for a Month be­fore the Pope died. Hence was it that Pasquin seeing many Ladies in the Vatican, contrary to the usual custom, made bold to tell Marforio merrily;

If you've a mind to play the Ruffian, You may find Wenches at the Ʋatican.

[Page 156]The Pope continued ten days with­out any use of Reason: and it is thought; Donna Olimpia got in that time, above half a Million. For the aspiring Spirits, for fear of letting slip so fair an oppor­tunity, and knowing the greediness of Donna Olimpia run as if the Devil drove them to buy Ecclesiastical pre­ferments: which she bestowed with her eyes shut, so they came but with their hands open. I know a Canon that had sought for a Bishoprick more than a hundred times, without ever obtain­ing it. And the reason was, he would give Donna Olimpia but five thousand Crowns for it, and she demanded eight thousand: so that though he came up at last to six thousand, they could not agree. But now towards the latter end the same Donna Olimpia sends for him, to know whether he was still in the mind he he had been formerly; and when she found him a little cool, protesting to her that a violent tempta­tion of the Flesh had made him spend [Page 157] two thousand Crowns upon a lewd Woman: Oh, well, well, says she, then you have four thousand Crowns left, bring them to me, that you may not lose that which I keep for you, and you shall be Bishop for me; so shall I not lose the satisfaction of pre­senting so worthy a person to that Dig­nity. Thus was he declared Bishop at the very instant he layed down his four thousand Crowns. Another Clergy Man, that had purchased a Benefice for two thousand Crowns, felt such a remorse of Conscience a little while af­ter, that he would not go to take pos­session, but came to Donna Olimpia, and did beseech her to accept his sur­render of that he had never yet entred upon, and only pay him back three parts of what he had given her: for he felt the torments of Hell for the Simony he had contracted. Donna Olimpia gave him no other answer, but that the Pope was yet living, and that he gave him his Benediction; by which [Page 158] means the Devils could do him no [...] harm. This was the comfort she ordi­narily gave to Simoniakes.

It is incredible to reckon up the gross Simonies that were committed in Rome, during the sway of this Lady, especially towards the latter end. The Barbarini made great hast to be Rich, under the Reign of their Uncle: but yet they never forgot their reverence to the Church, still making their gain some other way, than by that of Simo­ny. And if they did chance to make bold a little, it was very privately, and not with such open impudence as this Lady. But the truth is, the Bar­barini disposed of a Church, where they were to continue as Cardinals a now Donna Olimpia commanded a Church, which it was likely some time or other, she would be obliged not on­ly to quit, but fly from as a Woman.

A certain Marquiss had the curiosity at a great expence and trouble, to make a Computation of the Simonies com­mitted [Page 159] by Donna Olimpia: but for fear [...]f being reputed a Heretick, he left [...]is Work unfinished, having discover­ [...]d that in Marca only, which is but an [...]different Province; she had sold in [...]he space of ten Years, three hundred [...]hirty six Benefices, that were com­ [...]only known, besides what had pas­ [...]d under-hand. The Confessors pro­ [...]ested the name of Simony was become [...] scandalous and frequent, that many [...]ould not go to Church, because they [...]ould not meet with Church-men; [...]nd others finding the abuse so general, [...]ould not believe it to be a Sin.

The French Prelates had nothing to [...]nswer the Protestants, that Jeered at [...]he Church of Rome for its Simony, and [...]ther Enormities there committed: so [...]hat they encreased their Church very [...]uch by it.

A German Bishop, who had some [...]umber of Protestants in his Diocess, [...]oubled to hear so many Reproaches, [...]nd see so many Writings they publish­ed, [Page 160] to the shame of the Roman Church for her frequent Simonies: took occasion one day to write to the Congregation of Cardinals; that if the Simonies of Donna Olimpia ceased not i [...] Rome, he should run hazzard of losin [...] his Bishoprick, and the Church of Rom [...] the People. This Letter came not t [...] Rome till three days before the Pope Death: and then Cardinal Frances [...] Barbarino kept it from the other Cardinals.

Spain, which is thought the firme [...] part of Christendom to the Church [...] Rome, began to waver a little upon tho [...] horrid accompts were brought of th [...] Ladies disposal of the Church. Nay, the [...] were Bishops that called a Synod, to advise how to extinguish that scandalou [...] name of Simony, which gave so hig [...] offence both to Clergy and People.

At last it pleased the divine goodness, which rules all, to free the Churc [...] of so abominable a scandal by the deat [...] of the Pope.

[Page 161] Innocent died the seventh of Janua­ [...], in the Year 1655. after he had go­ [...]erned ten Years, four Months and [...]enty Days. A Pope, that truly might [...]ve deserved a better Record, had [...]t his Manners been debauched by his [...]ster-in-law.

The Church hath no reason to com­ [...]ain of him, as he was himself; but it [...]mplains in him of Donna Olimpia. Had [...] made Donna Olimpia live in him, and [...]t he in her, his Ashes might have de­ [...]ved an eternal Monument, and not [...] be buryed in oblivion, as it is now [...]cessary, to abolish the memory of [...] Sister-in-law. He was not innocent, [...]cause Donna Olimpia: was Innocent: [...]t had she been innocent, he might [...]en have deserved the name of Inno­ [...]t.

The two Nights before he died, all [...]e Kindred were busie in carrying a­ [...]y the Moveables from the Vatican Donna Olimpia's Palace: and that [...]th great secrecy, for fear if the [Page 162] People should get knowledge of it they should out of confidence that th [...] Pope were dead, stop them by th [...] way by force, out of the great hatre [...] they had for Donna Olimpia. But Fo [...] tune was so favourable, as not to ma [...] the least rub in the way, as I suppos [...] that she might conclude with the san [...] propitious aspect upon this Lady, [...] she had begun.

Thus had Donna Olimpia no soon closed the Pope's Eyes: but leaving t [...] Body where it had expired in the Q [...] rinale; she, by the assistance of some her Confidents, got to her own Pala [...] with her Son and Nephews, after h [...] ving given notice to the Cardinals a [...] Embassadours by some of the Cler [...] as the custom is. But this advice w [...] two days going about after the Pop [...] death. For his Relations conceal it long as it is possible, that they may f [...] tifie their Interest in the mean time, a [...] get Money so long as they can.

The Death of Innocent was no soo [...] [Page 163] [...]ivulged, but the City began to re­ [...]yce, as it always does in such Conjun­ [...]ures. And no wonder: since that which gives th [...] People so great a sa­ [...]sfaction, is the Liberty they have [...]uring an empty Chair. The Cardi­ [...]ls are ravished with the Hopes that [...]ch pretend to, if not directly to be [...]ope, at least to have one of his own [...]oosing. All the Kindred and Friends [...] the Cardinals are drunk with joy, [...] think that they may arrive to the [...]ne pitch, the former are fallen from. [...]nd lastly, the disconted parties are [...]nd to find themselves quitted of a [...]esent oppression.

But if ever Rome was in a merry [...]ood for the Death of a Pope, cer­ [...]inly it was for that of Innocent. It [...]s beyond all comparison, not so [...]uch in respect of Innocent himself, as Donna Olimpia, whom they perfect­ [...] hated. All sort of People blessed [...]od for his Mercy, in delivering the [...]hurch from the violence of Donna [Page 164] Olimpia. It was verily believed, tha [...] during the vacancy, the Fury of th [...] rude Multitude would have offere [...] some Insolence to the P [...]ace and Perso [...] of this Lady: who therefore appeare [...] abroad as little as she could. Howeve [...] nothing happened. For as they say i [...] Rome, When the Dog is dead, all Malidies with him. Thus they thought [...] more of Donna Olimpia: as fearing [...] the other side, to draw the displeasu [...] of all those other great Families, s [...] was allied to, upon themselves.

But yet if ever she found her self a peck of Troubles, it was at this tim [...] for fear she should see some Pope th [...] was her Enemy, in the Vatican. S [...] was industrious beyond measure, in si [...] ing out the Addresses and Inclinatio [...] of the Cardinals, and entertaining p [...] vate Conferences with her Intimat [...] the Barbarini especially. So that by h [...] Vigilancy & contrivance she prevaile [...] with some Cardinals to make up a fl [...] ing Squadron, as you shall see hereafte [...]

[Page 165]It began to appear plainly in the Conclave, which was held in the Sa­ [...]resty of S. Peter, that there was an [...]vident division in the Opinions of [...]he Cardinals: and by consequence it was like to hold long, each Faction [...]esolving to be obstinate in their Cause. Donna Olimpia, that she might likewise [...]ave her share in the Conclave, that [...]ight look like a Party, addressed her [...]elf to some Creatures of the New Col­ [...]edge; that is, Cardinals created by [...]nnocent, to form themselves in a Bo­ [...]y, under the name of the Flying [...]quadron. The motion was very well [...]eceived, and put into execution. It [...]s true, there were some admitted that [...]ad no great kindness for Donna Olim­pia: but she was assured of the major [...]art, who resolved to make no Pope, [...]hat were not a Friend to the House of [...]anfilio. Yet at last, she could not but [...]ave a suspition of them: when having [...]ent her Son, the Prince Panfilio, to en­ [...]reat the Cardinals of the Flying Squa­dron, [Page 166] to put themselves under a Head which he named, and it was Cardina [...] John Carlo di Medici, who for his Seniority in the New Colledge, and th [...] greatness of his Birth, and being th [...] first of Innocents creation, might hav [...] deserved; they [...]ave this answer, Thi [...] they had each of them a Head of thei [...] own, and Feet to walk upon, withou [...] being beholding to any Body else for their▪

It would require some time here t [...] set down all the passages and tran [...] actions of the Conclave. For to sa [...] truth, setting aside the Interests [...] France and Spain, every thing be [...] either to the ruine or preservation o [...] Donna Olinpia. The Cardinals the [...] were her Enemies, would have give their Voices for the Devil, if he woul [...] have stood her Enemy: and he [...] Friends would have shut out a Sain [...] had he declared against her. And truly, their violent proceedings gave [...] to understand as much. Those tha [...] most stickled for her, were these six [Page 167] [...]he three Barbarini, Azzolini, Cheru­ [...]ino, and Gualtieri. They were more [...]han thirty that opposed her, of which [...]ight or nine of Innocents own Crea­ [...]ures, which were the Cardinals Sfor­ [...]a, Savelli, Astalli, Lomellino, Impe­ [...]iale, Borromeo, Pio, Ludovisio, Aldo­ [...]randino, and her own Nephew Mal­ [...]achini; who first declared himself her [...]nemy, as the Fates would have it, [...]nd made more Noise than all of them [...]gainst his Aunt. Though indeed, he [...]as but laughed at for his pains by the [...]onclave, which had a very mean O­ [...]inion of him. Nay his Aunt, when [...]he heard how loud he was, said only [...]his, The Voice of an Ass will never reach [...]eaven.

It was verily thought, nay, the Car­ [...]inals themselves made it appear, that [...]ad it not been for the Interests that Donna Olimpia drove on, the Conclave [...]ad been at an end within a Month, whereas now it lasted three. The La­ [...]y pleased her self to think of Cardinal [Page 168] Francesco Barbarino his being Pope: [...] he that layed her Concerns most t [...] heart, after the Reconcilement. An [...] truly he pushed hard for it: carrying more than thirty Voices, that stoo [...] stifly to have none but him. A Cardinal, who for his uprightness of Life deserved such an Honour: had tha [...] been the Rule the Conclave went by Except Barbarino, Donna Olimpia wa [...] to seek whom to wish for, as a Pope t [...] her purpose, had it been left to he [...] choice: so that all her Endevours wer [...] only to keep off her declared Enemies▪

Among these, there were three particularly excluded for this Ladies sake▪ The first was Cardinal Palotta, a Ma [...] well deserving, and one that was biassed with no Interest, which used to b [...] the great obstacle to that preferment He was no sooner brought into play but Cardinal Barbarino declared h [...] he would never give way to the Election of a person, from whom was infallibly to be expected the Punishmen [...] [Page 169] [...]f Donna Olimpia, who had done con­ [...]derable Injuries to Palotta. So this Man's hopes were disappointed, to the [...]slike of many an honest Man. The [...]cond was Cardinal Maculano, of the [...]der of St. Dominike, who bare the [...]tle of St. Clement: and indeed there [...]as not so much stir for any body in the [...]onclave, as about his Election. He [...] as a Cardinal, but lived more like a [...]ermite, than a person of that quality, [...]ever being able to forget his Cloister [...]fe: upon which many judging him to [...]e a consciencious person, put hard for [...]s Election. But Donna Olimpia looked [...]pon him as a Fury, or the Devil in hu­ [...]ane shape: because Innocent, out of [...]e perfect hatred he bare him, had [...]ways represented him so to her. And [...]erefore during his Reign she was [...]ontinually putting affronts upon the [...]oor man, not so much to satisfie her [...]wn malice, as to please her Brother- [...]-law. Now this made the Lady doubt [...] Maculano should be made Pope, he [Page 170] would take all his revenge out upon her. So she gave in charge never t [...] approve of Maculano, but to set hi [...] down in the book as the first to b [...] excluded.

Barbarino promised to do his best and did it with a great deal of pains and the help of Cardinal Antonio, wh [...] concurred likewise in the exclusio [...] The Partisans of St. Clement findin [...] themselves at a stand, made all mea [...] possible to quiet Donna Olimpia. The alledged that Maculano or St. Clement being a Subject of the Duke of Parm so neer a Relation to the Princess Rossrio her. Daughter-in-law, wou [...] certainly never do her any prejudice because the greatest mischief being what should concern her estate, h [...] would never do that for the Prince her sake, who was to share in the Inheritance. But these seeming reason incensed Donna Olimpia the more. For when she considered that her persecution must be kept off by the Prince [...] [Page 171] [...]er means: she took on like a Mad­ [...]oman, swearing, That she had rather [...]erish under the Indignation, than live [...]on the recommendation of her Daugh­ter-in-law. Thus was St. Clement kept [...]ut.

The third they shut out was Cecchini, [...]ho hated her more than all the rest, by [...]eason of the Process that was commen­ [...]ed by her means against him and Mas­ [...]mbruno, to take away the Datary [...]om th [...]n, and to be made uncapable [...] any office where the Pope had to [...]o. In short, he was persecuted as [...]ilty of high Treason against this [...]ady: and therefore apprehending his [...]ger, she made it her business to ex­clude him, and did effect it.

Many others there were that she ex­cluded: but not with that violence as [...]e did these three, openly professing [...]ther to dye, than see any of them [...]ope. Nevertheless if she had her [...]ill against her enemies, which were not [...]w; she missed of it in the behalf of [Page 172] her friends: and indeed she and Barbrino declared, so they could keep o [...] her sworn enemies, they did not mu [...] care who else was chosen.

However they did endevour to s [...] up Cardinal Cherubino, one of little experience, and no Conjurer. But suc [...] defects are not much consdered in th [...] Conclave, and therefore did him sma [...] harm: They were only Donna Olimpia Adversaries that would not admit him, because he was of her side. [...] that it was observed more than twen [...] Cardinals answered those propose Cherubino in the self same words o [...] after another, I give my vote against his because I will not have Donna Olimpia triumph amongst the Cherubins.

This Lady had no great opinion Sacchetti, yet she did not oppose hi [...] openly. Afterwards seeing how fierce his Partisans carried on his cause, wh [...] thought verily to have made him Pop [...] being less afraid of him than of man others that put for it, to cajole wi [...] [Page 173] [...]im, she began to make Azzolini and [...]ualtieri for him; who did their weak [...]ndevour, though in vain.

Cardinal Spada counterfeiting him­self sick, got out of the Conclave, and presently began to treat with Don­ [...] Olimpia, desiring her to stand Car­ [...]gna's friend, who had gone all along [...]ith her party: to whom she made answer, that she had referred all to Cardinal Barbarino, whose choice she [...]as resolved to stand to. Thus retur­ [...]ed the good man into the Conclave a­ [...]ain, but without ever compassing his [...]esign.

The Cardinals Gualtieri and Azzo­ [...]ni without doubt got a great deal of I will in the Conclave, of which Car­dinal Francesco Barbarino had no small [...]are: and that for the great distur­ [...]ance they made to maintain Donna O­limpia's Interest, who was discoursed of a the Conclave with most ignominious language. They wondered not so much [...]t Azzolini and Gualtieri, because they [Page 174] looked upon them as men of lives little answerable to their dignity; beside that, they were not made by the Church but Donna Olimpia, and so not by deser [...] but that which amazed them, was to se [...] a Cardinal, such as Barbarino, so good and sincere a person, that we may say he was the glory of the Consistory forsake the Interest of the Church, an [...] embrace that of a Woman. Dive [...] Cardinals, when they saw Barbarino would not allow of Palotta and Mac [...] lano for Donna Olimpa's sake, began to say, they should never have believed, that Barbarino would prefer wicked woman before two good me [...] Cardinal Sforza, who endevoured mo [...] than any to procure a Pope, that should be her enemy, that he might have th [...] satisfaction to see her well chastized not able to endure that Barbarino should concern himself so much for her, we [...] about all the Conclave, telling then according to his wonted bluntness, The till then he had taken Barbarino for [Page 175] [...]od Cardinal, but for the future he should [...]ok upon him as the Son of a Whore.

At last the Cardinals, weary of a three months prison, resolved to make [...]n end: the rather because it was told them the people would endure no lon­ [...]er to be without a Head, and so much [...]o their inconvenience want the usual Courts of Judicature; besides that, [...]hey murmured more and more against Donna Olimpia, as the person they sup­posed in great measure guilty of this delay. This they feared might draw [...]n some. publique as well as private [...]hischief: and therefore they agreed to [...]ome to the election of one that should give distast to neither side.

And that was Cardinal Ghigi, now Alexander the Seventh. His good man­ners, and exemplary Life to the world, his discreet manage, and universal learning, made so just a composition in him, that he was the only man judged capable of governing St. Peter is Ship in [...]o boisterous times.

[Page 176]He was made Cardinal by Innocent with the approbation of all the house of Panfilio. Wherefore Donna Olimpia, and those Cardinals that stuck to he [...] willingly concurred in his election. For they did not think it any way likely that he should entertain an ill though against the Kinswoman of that Pope who had made him Cardinal.

On the other side, those Cardinal which did not favour Donna Olimpia did not only forbear to hinder but promoted the advance of Ghigi more that all the rest. For they did believe suc [...] a Pope would be more inclined to the severity of Eliah, then the mildness o [...] Elisha: and therefore would not fail to chastise her Ladyship for the mischief she had done the Church. They though it impossible so zealous a Pope should forbear to give testimony to all the world of his high resentments against that Woman, who was looked upon a engine of all the rogueries that were committed under Innocent's reign. The [Page 177] Cardinals Sforza and Astalli her sworn enemies, speaking with other Cardi­nals their friends about the election of Ghigi; told them, if they both were [...]ntrived into a Pope, they should not [...]e able to punish her so sufficiently, as Ghigi would do. For nothing could contribute so much to the scourging of [...]er for her Simonies, as the zeal of Ghigi.

Thus the night before the scrutiny, [...] being resolved upon, the Cardinals [...]edici and Barbarino sent to Ghigi to [...]d him be of good comfort, that on [...]e morrow they would come to pay [...]m adoration. Cardinal Rosetti Ghigi's [...]emy, being not able to hinder the election, asked Cardinal Barbarino, that strange extravagances are these, [...]at Donna Olimpia's enemies will have [...]e same Pope her friends desire: and her friends the same her enemies wish for. [...]o which Barbarino, that he might stop [...]s mouth, and make him go along with [...]hem in the election, answered; Mar­vail [Page 178] not: For we are resolved to have on that is not our Creature: the Medici, on of their Subjects: France, one that the had excluded: and Spain, an unintere [...] sed Person.

It is not to be imagined what Jo [...] there was every where, at the Election of Cardinal Ghigi. There was not on Negative Voice found in the Scrutiny which seldom happens at the Election of a Pope. Rosetti himself, that sword he would cut his Hand off, before should contribute to Ghigi's Election gave his Vote in the end.

So soon as he was declared Pope, I fell upon his Knees, and prayed, an wept a little, and then gave his Asse [...] taking the name of Alexander. The going out of the Conclave in Process [...] on, and conducted to the Vatican, I began to exercise his Parts upon th [...] Papal Authority. You could hear n [...] other Discourse throughout Rome, b [...] of his Piety, from which they expected great matters. Prince Camillo Panfilio, [Page 179] went one of the first to congra­tulate him: to whom his Holiness ex­ [...]essed a great kindness and respect. Donna Olimpia was resolved to be none [...] the last: but besides a Congratula­tion, she made him by her Maggior­ [...]omo, she sent Cardinal Azzolini on [...]urpose to spy out the Land, (an em­ployment very natural to him) and to [...]t the Pope know how great Joy she [...]d to see one Pope, to whom her [...]nsman had opened the way by ma­ [...]ng him Cardinal; and the more, be­ [...]use she had always represented him to Innocent, as a Man of extraordinary [...]rts; so that she seemed to share with [...]m in the advance of his Fortunes.

Alexander, that knew Azzolini very [...]ell, and the constitution of Donna Olimpia; answered him in ambiguous arms, that neither argued an accep­tance, nor undervaluing of their Ser­vice: which, when Azzolini had rela­ted to the Lady, she began to mistrust [...]e worst.

[Page 180]Indeed Alexander had a very ill opinion of her; but would not shew the effects of it at first so vigorously, lest b [...] should seem moved out of self-interest always professing to do things leisurely and with advice, as his practice wi [...] nesseth. Her Adversaries would no [...] importune the Pope about her, just soon as he was estalished: and they ha [...] reason for it. For by this means, th [...] Pope of himself, would upon seven occasions, discover the wicked practices of the said Lady: and when the way was once opened to her persec [...] tion, then would they set their last ha [...] to the work.

They failed not of their aim. For the Pope met with Motives every day both in his Civil, and Ecclesiastic [...] Transactions, to quarrel and impriso [...] Donna Olimpia. The Datary was wholy corrupted by the Simonies she ha [...] introduced, all Places sold, no Treasure left, and a thousand other miscariages appeared every day. His Ze [...] [Page 181] could not see this, and sit still. There­ [...]ore he gave full Instructions to all his Officers, Spiritual and Temporal, to [...]nake strict Enquiry, and thoroughly [...]nform themselves of the Conduct of Donna Olimpia, in the Reign of Inno­cent: and that he might be the more exactly certified, he not only gave [...]harge to his ordinary Officers, but de­buted other private Inquisitours in Rome, and about the State.

Donna Olimpia was so well advised of this diligence the Pope used against [...]er, that she tried all was possible to have her self. She sent Prince Panfilio to beseech his Holiness not to give cre­dit to the malicious Informations of [...]her Enemies, and that she referred her self to his untainted Justice and Boun­ty: to which he only answered, If she [...]rely upon Ʋs, We will do her Justice.

Her Adversaries by this time began to play their parts: each profering to prove a hundred Misdemeanours Don­na Olimpia had commited against the Church.

[Page 182]There was not a day passed over the Pope's head, that he had not presented him a hundred Memorials, to demand Justice against this Lady: beside private Informations without number All those that she had made her Bargains with, posted them.

Cardinal Barbarino, at the entreaty of Donna Olimpia, went himself to speak to the Pope in her behalf, before matters should be gone too far: but found him so averse to hear of any Intercession, that he durst not appear for her, as plainly finding his word would do her more harm than good For he saw the Pope so zealous for the good of the Church, that in stead of Clemency, he recommended Justice to him: so that he told him at parting That he wuld treat Donna Olimpia, as Prince ought to do with Justice, and Pope with Clemency: though her Action shewed she had neither Clemency nor Justice. But Barbarino would not terrifie the poor Lady, by repeating to her [Page 183] the same words, only wished her to be as wary and circumspect, as she could.

Now the Pope began to discover his Intentions, of calling Donna Olimpia to an accompt for all the Money she had received of the Church: upon which, her Relations fearing to lose their share of so goodly an Inheritance, especially the Prince her Son, all joyned to help her. The Princess Rossano, had it been only designed to torment her Carcass, no doubt would not have spoke a word for her: but finding it extend to the Purse, thought her self obliged for her Childrens sake, to endevour her utmost to preserve not her, but her Estate. However some of the Cardinals would not meddle with so ticklish a Business: as to oppose a Pope, who was admired and adored, not so much for the emi­ninence of his degree, as his exem­plary Life. Yet all joyned in this ad­vice: that she should stand the first shock, before she fled.

In the mean time Donna Olimpia pro­fered [Page 184] to have Audience of the Pope a but she was shamefully refused, the Pope declaring he would give Audience to no Woman, but upon a very urgent occasion. And they say he answered the Messenger over and above, That Donna Olimpia had been too fami­liar with Popes, and therefore she might dispense with seeing them any more.

The private Inquisitours that I told you of before, who were appointed to learn out the Carriage of Donna Olim­pia while her Brother-in-law was Pope, brought in daily thousands of Accusa­tions against her, that ought to have been punished not only by pecuniary Mulcts, but bodily chastisement. The crys and complaints of so many poor Bishops that were oppressed, so many worthy learned Men undone, so many honest Men persecuted with Hunger because they had not Money to present Donna Olimpia for a preferment, reached up to Heaven: besides that many times as the Pope passed the Street, you should [Page 185] hear the people cry out for Justice a­gainst Donna Olimpia.

Many began already to be scandalized at the Pope, that he proceeded so slowly [...]n a Business of this nature. The Barba­ [...]ini themselves, who considering the Pope's zeal, thought it impossible for her Ladyship to escape, knew not what to think of it: when they saw how gently he came on, after so clear Evi­dences. Her adversaries daily instan­ced against her, and the Plaintiffs brought in their Depositions: though indeed one would have thought the general out-cry and clamour, would have been Evidence enough to have punished her by, that had robbed all and some.

While things were thus wavering, Donna Olimpia calls all her greatest Confidents together, to advise how to provide against the storm. which she looked upon as unavoidable. There were those that counselled her to retire from Rome into some neighbouring [Page 186] part, or into the State of some of he Nephews, under pretence of taking the Air: but this was not approved o [...] For by her departure, she would certainly encourage her Enemies, and cause many to shew themselves, that ha [...] not yet appeared: besides that the Rabble would be ten times more Insolent in her absence, than now. Some would have had her gone to Loreto, incognita, as out of Devotion: which was not liked for many reasons. The rather, because not being able to get out of Rome without the Pope's Leave and Blessing, to be sure he was alrea­dy resolved to grant or deny, acccord­ing as it best suited with his Designs and thus it would not be discretion to make a bootless attempt, The Prince her Son, who was by, judged it not convenient to call the Chirurgeon before she was wounded: then turning to his Mother, he bid her be of good comfort, telling her, Madam, the Fool runs away while his House is burning [Page 187] down. Stay at Rome, and think of no other Refuge. Look you but to your Per­son, and we will take care of your Estate. Thus was this Conference determined with a sumptuous Collation: though Cardinal Barbarino, who was one there, would not stay, but excused himself after his usual manner upon such oc­casions.

That which Donna Olimpia's Friends and Relations proposed for her Ho­nour, the Pope executed by way of Justice. For he sent one of his Cour­tiers to Donna Olimpia, to command her expresly from him to leave Rome within three days, and in eight to be at Orvieto, which is a City about thirty Miles from Rome: from whence she was not to stir, without new Orders from his Holiness.

It is no easie matter to say, how much this Order disturbed her. Yet she put a good Face upon it; telling those that were about her, that she thanked God, who had given her a Judge, whose [Page 188] good nature disposed him to nothing but what was just; to whose Breast she referred her Cause most willingly, as assured of her own Innocence.

Barbarino was resolved to vente [...] another bout in her behalf, against his own inclination; but he found the Pope so much more hardened than formerly, that there was no coming near him; and so was fain to take his Leave, with a Lord have mercy upon us. The Pope gave him no other answer to all his Discourse, than this, We shall take more pity of Donna Olimpia, than she had sometimes of the Barbarini. The Cardinal casting down his Eyes with his wonted gravity, remained silent; till provoked by I know not what suggestion at last, desired his Holiness to pardon Donna Olimpia, as his Family had done after so many provocations. These words seemed to warm the Pope a little, without putting him by his constant gravity: and he answered the Cardinal in his own terms, You have [Page 189] excused her, because it was for Your In­terest: but We cannot, because it will hurt Our Conscience. Here the Pope stop­ped, and the Cardinal immediately took his Leave, with the usual Ceremo­nies: returning strait to Donna Olimpia, to give her an accompt of what had passed. Much about the same time, Prince Panfilio desired Audience of the Pope: who made him be told, he would give Audience to none of Donna Olim­pia's Relations, till she were gone out of Rome.

It was therefore thought convenient that without any more to do, she should prepare to obey his Holiness: since her delay would do her but an In­jury. So she went out of Rome, incogni­ta, the second day after the Order. That night she lay some two Miles out of Town, where almost all her Friends and Relations came to see her, in parti­cular, the Cardinals Azzolini and Gual­tieri, who bid her take heart, and fear no colours. The Prince her Son would [Page 191] have gone with her to Orvieto, but she would not let him: as esteeming it more seasonable to stay at Rome, and and see how things went. Thus con­tinued she her Journey, and the Prince returned, receiving at his entry into the Town, an affront from some Boys that ran about his Coach, and sung Songs and Libels upon his Mother. It was therefore found good prudence that Donna olimpia had conveyed her self so privately out of Town, to escape those Insolencies upon her own person.

The Town talked very much upon the commanding this Lady away. Eve­ry one spoke to her disadvantage with a concerned bitterness. Her Rela­tions, though Princes, durst not al­most stir abroad for three or four days, to avoid the clamours and invectives of the people.

The same day that Donna Olimpia quitted Rome, the Pope ordered to begin to take the Examination of Wit­nesses for drawing up the Process. He [Page 190] likewise resolved to speak to the Con­sistory of Cardinals, that they would refer all to his Prudence and Justice.

In the mean time Prince Panfilio had Audience of him, where amongst o­ther things he told him, that if every Pope should undertake to correct the presupposed Faults of the Relations of his Predecessour, it would make a Noise in the Church not a little scan­dalous: for the Hereticks would charge all the Blame upon the Popes themselves, without whose concur­rence, his Relations would have been able to have done little. The Pope did not like this Discourse, but told the Prince, The Hereticks are scanda­lized to see Faults go unpunished, and not to see them corrected: and it is but fitting that they should give accompt to the Pope, who is to be responsible to God. And so he dismissed him.

The Politicians taxed the Prince very much of Weakness and Indiscre­ [...]ion, that he would entertain with [Page] [Page 192] such Discourse a Pope, who had inti­mated so great an aversion to his own Kindred, as to swear he would never suffer any of them to be admitted into Rome, or to any Command whatever: though his Predecessours had always done it.

The Examinations all this while went on for accomplishing the Pro­cess, which they thought would ne­ver come to an end, so many several Charges and Impeachments coming daily one upon the neck of another▪ Therefore the Pope appointed that Donna Olimpia should first give an ac­compt of what was already brought before him. For which purpose his Holiness sent a Commissary to her La­dyship; to give her notice, that she was to answer distinctly to these fol­lowing particulars.

1. To give an Accompt of all the Money taken out of the Datary, with­out any occasion of the Church requir­ring it: forcing the Officers with Me­naces [Page 193] to comply with her insatiable de­sires and avarice.

2. That she should clear her self of what was laid to her Charge, of having sold multitudes of Benefices: and that upon pain of Excommunication, she should confess to the Pope all the Simo­nies that were committed in her time.

3. That she would refund all those se­veral sums of Money she had received in Composition of those that had Suits at Law, throughout the whole state of the Church.

4. That she would give accompt what was become of the Revenues of so many vacant Benefices, which the Stewards confessed to have payed in to her.

5. To shew where the Salaries of so many Officers were, which were pro­ved to have been carryed to her House.

6. She was to give accompt for all the Corn she had made be carried out the State to other places, where she or­dered.

[Page 194]7. She was to pay back again all the superfluous Expences she had been the cause of.

8. To count for so many Taxes, Im­posts and Gabels, as were laid upon the people, to their great oppression, by her instigation: since the Officers that gathered them, confessed they had pay­ed all in to her.

9. She should be obliged immediate­ly to restore all the Jewels she had ta­ken out of the several Treasuries, as well of Churches, as the Popes.

10. And last of all, she was charged by more than a hundred Witnesses, to have received over and above the or­dinary Revenue, two Millions and an half of Gold Ducats, for which no ac­compt had been given: and therefore his Holiness was resolved she should make it good. This News was hardly so unwelcome to Donna Olimpia, as it was to her Relations, who expected to be her Heirs: so that they went buz­zing about like so many Bees, to justifie [Page 195] the Innocence of Donna Olimpia. The Lady drew up a formal Writing, to make it appear that she had not Inte­ressed her self in the Government, and that whatever came to her hands, she delivered it up to the Pope, who order­ed it, and laid it out where there was occasion, as other Popes used to do be­fore him.

But these excuses were too weak to ballance so many Proofs as were made out against her. So that it was verily believed, what was whispered about Town, that the Pope was resolved to Sequester her Estate, and imprison her Person. It is true, this was but the rumour of the people: but assuredly, the Pope intended to have made her give accompt for every particular.

While Affairs went on in this man­ner, the dreadfull Visitation of the Plague, fell upon Rome: so that most of the Courts being shut up, common Justice was ecclipsed by the great Judgment, Trade left off, Commerce [Page 196] among themselves suspended, and the Pope wholly taken up to save as many as he could, to give order for the Sick and the Dead; gave a stop to the Process and time to those who were concerned to devise a way for Donna Olimpia's delivery.

But if the hand of Man, or rather the Popes, was kept from punishing Donna Olimpia for a season: yet Hea­ven, that watches while Mortals are asleep, could not but waken the di­vine Vengeance against so guilty a creature. The Scourge of the Plague visited many in Orvieto, and amongst the first that died under the execution of that Judgment, was this Lady; who surely by her practices, thought her self immortal.

Thus died Donna Olimpia of the Plague in Year 1656. at Orvieto, some few Months after her persecution. Her Corps lay above ground two days, ha­ving but few Servants with her, that were all dead before. So that her Bo­dy [Page 197] was left to the mercy of the Sear­chers, who were more sollicitous about her Jewels, than her Carcass, which was in a manner exposed to be eaten by Dogs and Cats. She died without a Confessor; which was looked upon as a Judgment upon her, who had so high­ly affronted and oppressed the Clergy.

Her Name was buried in Oblivion for some time, while the Contagion stopped the peoples mouths: and this Lady, who made so much Noise during her Life, had not a Mourner to bewail her Death. Though no doubt had she died at any other time, she should have had all the honour of the Church, with a solemn Funeral: but in the mean time the Piazza's would have been fil­ [...]ed with Satyrs and Pasquils: For the Romans neither spare living nor dead.

It was thought she left more than two Millions of Crowns in ready Mo­ney, besides Land and Moveables in­stimable, and what she had already bestowed upon her Kindred. The [Page 198] Prince her Son was Heir to her Palace in the Piazza Navona: which is the fairest in Rome, and where she had he [...] richest Goods. Indeed, except some few Legacies to her Kindred and certain Churches, which in all amounted not to above three hundred thousand Crowns; all the rest fell to the Prince who took up his Habitation in the Piazza Navona.

After her Death there was nothing more done: though it was expected the Pope would have come upon he [...] Heirs. But the truth is, by this time the Pope was become like other men by having changed his resolutions. For he called all his Relations up to Rome; which sight so melted his Heart, that he could not but think of enriching them To which end it is believed, he drew a Million out of Donna Olimpia's Estate; which, without regarding the Church the good Alexander distributed a­mongst his Kindred: and so fell that Persecution in secret, which was com­menced [Page 199] in publick. Cardinal Sforza, [...]ccording to his wonted freedom, told Friend of his, that Donna Olimpia's [...]oney was passed from one Thief to an­ [...]ther. And thus went Donna Olimpia [...]ff the Stage.

Thus conclude I her Story: least with two long a Discourse of the Dead, should importune the patience of the [...]iving.

And thus; gentle Reader, be con­ [...]ent to have read that, which I have [...]een satisfied to take the pains to write.