CHAP. I

THE Romane Empyre enjoyed a profound Peace, France, Italy, Spaine, Lorraine, and the Gallicane or French Provinces of the Low-Coun­tries, began to respire by the Peace of Vervix, All the Partialities of the League grew to be smoothered by the prudence of that Gaulish Hercules. The Romane Catholicks, HENRY Fourth. and they of the Reformed Religion, with an agreeable har­mony (to one anothers grief) testified their fide­lity to their magnanimous Prince, and to please him the more, bestowed all their hatred upon his service, and their grudges, upon the glory of their Country. The Ger­mans, under the government of Maximilian, Nephew to the Emperour Charles, and Rodolph his son (both meek Princes) no more remembred the calamities, which they had suffored through the difference about matter of Religion: Nor knew they now, what belonged to war, but by hear-say and report: for if by accident they saw any souldiers listed, they were appoin­ted for France, or the Low-Countries. The Forces of the Dubos des deux Ponts, of Prince William of Orange, of Casimir, and of the Duke of Brunsmick, The Battell of Anolt. were soon, the one to be cut in pieces by the Duke of Guise, and the other, after, having committed great extravagances, and made shamefull compositions, to return with confusion. This part whereof only, which came into the Bi­shopprick [Page 2]of Colein, to interrupt the marriage of their Electour, proved not despisable,Frances mar­ried fair Agnes of Mansfeld. and had almost kindled a great fire: but it passed not over the Lisiere, and was quenched in the waters of the Rheyn, by the valour of the Duke of Parma. And so, by a good understanding of the Members with their Head, there returned a Calme: I mean, of the Electours, and Prin­ces, with their Emperour. Fear was taken away; but distrust, (which casts her roots every where amongst pleasures caused by abundance) was not rooted out. This hath smothered the good Corn (as we shall here­after shew) and dried up the fat of these rich Provinces; and that Ger­many, which was so formidable to the whole world would not have since been seen so miserably torne in pieces, if she had known how to keep her self in unity, and concord.

Now, this desirable Aurora had chased away the darknesse of the night; this Peace had lulled asleep the better part of Europe, and the War was re­tired towards the extremities, or uttermost ends thereof; as that at Sea be­tween the Spaniards and the English; The Low-coun­tries the Acade­my of the Wars. the Poles, and the Swedes; the Hungari­ans, and the Turks. But it was principally in the Low-Countries, where it had fixed its Seate and Schoole. It was (I say) in this little corner near the Sea, amongst great Rivers, and inaccessible Fennes and Marishes, where it set up its Academy, so to render the Discipline thereof immortall. In effect, great spirits not being able to live at home in sloth and idlenesse, and infla­med with a laudable desire of making themselves famous in Arms, for the acquisition of glory, hastened thither from all parts, there to make their Ap­prentisage; and some following the humour of their Prince, and others the interest of Religion, ranged themselves on that side, to which their zeal ad­dicted them.

How, because from the knowledge of the Revolutions of the precedent Age, are drawne the truest causes and motives of the bloody and terrible Tiagedies, which are yet a playing in this of ours; we will reprize our Dis­course from the head, and having reached the source, follow the brooks, and rivers, till we come into that Sea of calamities and miseries, wherein we see poor Christians ingulfed at this day; who cannot truly call themselves any more the Disciples of their Master Jesus Christ, since they have extermina­ted Peace, and brought confusion, dissentions and disorders upon them­selves.

It is therefore this abominable Age, whereof the Scripture so clearely speaks: This is that Kingdome of Iron, which shivers and subdues all things. The seven Angels have powred down their Vials upon the earth, which is filled with blasphemy, massacres, injustices, disloyalties, and infinite other evills, almost able to draw even the very Elect to murmuration. We have seen, and yet see, Kingdome against Kingdome, Nation against Nation, Plagues, Famines, Earthquakes, horrible Inundations; signes in the Sun, Moon, and Starres: anguishes, afflictions of whole Nations, through the tempests, and noise of the Sea. And whereas the Trees, by thrusting forth their buds, give us assurance of the approach of Summer; in like manner, will I be bold to say, that since those things are come to passe, which have been foretold us, we ought not to make any difficulty to believe, that the End is at hand, and that the Son of man is coming in a Cloud, with Power and Ma­jesty. O Great God! Inexhaustible source of goodnesse, and mercy! guide thou my pen, to the end that it say nothing but what is modestly true; to the confusion of Atheists, and the consolation of the Elect. Let us therefore be­gin at that miserable Kingdome, the better part whereof, which makes the extremity and bound (as it were) to Europe, groanes at this time under the tyranny of Turks and Infidels.

CHAP. II

NOw since we must kindle our Torch in the age past, which is to light us in the labyrinth of this of ours, I will take notice by the way of the chief exploits, and will begin from the Kingdom of Hungarie, the Then [...]er, or Stage of the Warre of the Ottomans. This kingdome is most fertile in all the blessings of the earth, as in Corne, in most excellent Wines, in Gold,The fertility of Hungary. Sil­ver, and all other mettals. In such sori, as that some Authors have presumed to prefer it before all the rest of Europe. At present, the greatest part of it acknowledges the Turk; another is grown desert by the insolencie of the Souldiers; and that which lies next to Germany obeys for their King Ferdi­nand the fourth, Son to the Emperour Ferdinand the third.

This Kingdom being tormented by the Arms of the great Turk, had re­course to the Emperour Rodolph, and he to the Princes and States of Ger­many: but they blinded by the prosperity of peace, and plunged in the delights which the fruits thereof produces; slighting the danger which most neerly concerned the house of Austria from abroad, slackly promised relief; which yet was retarded by the jealousie of such, as could not by any meanes brook the glory of that Family, and passionately wished the de­cline, or rather the utter ruine thereof. Rodolph in the Diet, or Assembly at Ra­tisbone, made a remonstrance, how Amurat the Sultan had broken the Peace of the year 1991. and taken many Towns, and Places of strength,Peace of the year 1591. broa­ken by Amurat. but he reaped nothing but winde; for it is in vain to preach to such as will not hear. He dyed in the year 1595 and his Son Mahomer succeeded him; against whom the Christians had neither good luck, nor blessing. For Agria was lost because the succour came too late, as being delayed by the raines; and the Army appeared not till some dayes after it was taken; howsoever there first grew some skermishes, and afterwards a Battail, wherein the Turks were roured, and their Canon taken. But the Conquerors casting themselves too soone and too inconsiderately upon pillage, made them who fled regain their courage; in such sort as that they rallyed, and defeated an Ar­my of sixty thousand men, however they durst not pursue them. By means of this memorable enterprize, the lot sell upon the impregnable Town of Raab, which issued very happily for the good of Christendome to the ho­nour of the Count de Swartsbourgh, and Mons. de Vanbecour, (a Lorraine Gen­tleman) together with the French, Lorrains, Low-burgundians, and Walloons. The Duke of Mercoeur, having taken leave of the most Christian King,Mutiny of the French. and recol­lected the fragments of the League, went thither, for the service of Christen­dome: but his Troops not having an equal zeal with that of their General, sell to mutinie in the Fort of Pappeneer Raab, chased away their officers, and indeavoured to sell the said place to the Turks. The Count de Swarts­bourgh offered them their pay, and conjured them to forbear that trea­son, but they being obstinate in their wickednesse, delivered to the In­fidels, (in earnest of their perfidie) of men, women, and children above six hundred Christians: and this by way of recompence for some Pro­visions.

The Place was invested, and the Turks could not succour it; and the brave Earle of Swartsbourgh killed. These detestable Mutiners, after having made many desperate sallyes, and fought long against Famine, (the gate of favour, and pardon being shut to them, who had so wickedly betrayed the Christian [Page 4]Party,) were at length almost all caught and punished, according to the greatnesse of their treason. Canisia was taken by the Turk, and Stoul-Vessem­bourg by the Duke of Mercoeur, where he atchieved so much glory, that the great Turk intreated Henry the fourth to call him away. This war was fi­nished about the end of the year 1606. The Emperours Souldiers muti­ned for want of pay, and committed a thousand robberies, which caused rebellious and great famine. The Duke of Mercoeur, desirous to go visit his native country, began his journey full of victorious palms, and passed through Vienna, where he was very well received by his Imperial Majesty, and the whole Court.The death of the Dake of Marcoeur. But Parca, envious of his happinesse, cut off the thred of his life at Novemberg.

Transylvania is a part of the aforesaid Kingdome of Hungary, and is much peopled, and most fortill: The Inhabitants speak a language much like to that of Low-Saxony; and it is also very credible, that they sprang from thence: but when or how is very uncertain. Some Authors recount that a certain Quack-salver, or Mountebank not being fully satisfied by the Citi­zens of Hamelen (a Town seated upon the River of Weser) according to their promise made him, (for freeing them from the trouble of an innumerable multitude of Rats, which he drew out of the said Town with the sound of his Pipe) revenged himself after this manner. He gathered together all the children of the Town, or, (to say better) he charmed them so well with the sound of his said instrument, that he going out, and they following to a cer­tain mountain not farre off, the ground cleft, and swallowed them up, and as soon as they were entred, closed up again: and sometime after it was published and believed, that the said children were transported into Tran­sylvania: And even to this very day,Whe [...]oe came the [...]thubitants of Transylva­nia. there are some at Hamelen who write in these terms; such a year, since the departure of our children. The Kingdom of Hungary for the most part, followes the Romane Catholick Religion; though yet both the Reformed party, and the Lutherans (especially in Tran­sylvania) have likewise their Churches. But the stepping in of these latter created a great deale of distrust; the inseparable companion of contradicto­ry opinions: The Soveraign authority hath lost part of her vigour; and her power is so much diminished, that the Hungarians could not subsist but by the Majesty of the Eagle. Let us summarily, and without deviating from our path, speak of the glory of the ancient Hungarians; of the vertues, and ill habits which are found now amongst them; and of the troubles which they suffer, or still apprehend amongst themselves by the neerness and vi­cinity of the sworne enemy of Christendome.

Hungary, (anciently called Pannonia) is a Kingdome most abundant in all which Nature covets for her contentment. She is watered with most fair and great Rivers; which would make her most flourishing, if she had not the Turk in her bowels: But she hath an ayer a little too rough for strangers. She hath produced a huge number of great Emperours; most Religious Kings; most holy Persons, and men most learned in all kinds of faculties. Atilas, that scourge of God, came from them with his Huns, for the affliction of Europe; and many other Tyrants, who have often rended Germany, and made the Emperours pay them tribute a long time, to save their Country from the fury of their arms.

But vice reigns there now with so absolute an Empire, as it renders the Hungarians very odious, and despicable. Ambition made them loose a King, a saire Army, and Buda, the capitall City of the Kingdome. Avarice hurries them blindfold upon all wickednesse; and makes them sometimes sell the Christians prisoners to the Turks and Tartars; without sparing so much as their own neer kindred, when the insatiable hunger of mony hath vayled the eyes of their understanding.

Their Kings have had frequent experiments of their perfidie; the Turks of their loosenesse; and the Germanes of their cruelty, treachery, and hatred; dangerous both to the one and the other, as having made many Fields un­fruitful, and brought much profit to their enemies. The Hungarians (saith an old Bishop, writing to the Emperour Frederick the first) have ugly faces, hollow eyes, low of stature, and barbarous both in manners and speech. And yet it must be avowed, that there also dwells vertue amongst them, as well as amongst other Christians; that they defend Christendome; and that their bodies are such Bulwarks, as the Ottomans have not hitherto been able to leap, and which they must first cast to the ground, if they intend to assayle Ger­many. They are almost alwayes on horse-back, and upon prey with them, and they serve themselves of calamity for an aliment to their vertue. And indeed that of the valiant Count de Serin amongst so many others, shined with so much glory, and constancy at the siege of Sigot, that it purchased him everlasting praise.

The Hungarians with their Light Horse do more hurt to the Turks, then to the Germanes; and in this last Warre of Bohemia they offended more by surprises, then by standing Fights. In the Battel of Prague not being able to support the rough onset of the Walloons, and Germanes, they quickly gave ground, and so were partly the cause of that remarkable Defeat.

CHAP. III

THis Province, which stretches it self to the Icie Sea, is of a very large extent, governed by an Emperour, or Great Duke, with most absolute au­thority, (after the manner of the Eastern Countries) however it lye very near the North. The Muscovits follow the Greek Religion, The Greek Re­ligion. under a Patri­arch; though yet it be mingled with very many superstitions, which will ne­ver be corrected, because the Great Duke suffers none of his subjects to tra­vel, and see other Countries. This people is much tormented by the Turks and Tartars. They have likewise waged great warres with the Polas and Swedes; but with many losses. They were very tyrannically governed by their Prince John Basil, who was succeeded by his son Theodore, a Prince of small sense, for he let both himself and his Country be ruled by his wives brother called Borits Fedorits. He died without children, and his Brother-in-law was Great Duke after him. He had a brother named Demetrius, who (as many Authors worthy of credit have written,The History of Demetrius. with great apparences of truth) was stolne away in his infancy, so to be saved from the evident danger wherewith he seemed to be threatened by the authority of the said Borits; and another very like him put in his place, was exposed dead to the view of the people.

Now, this Demetrius being brought up in Poland, with the Palatine Sando­mir, after he had travelled in Germany and Italy for the space of twenty yeares, gave himself to be known for the son of Basil, Brother to Theodore; and by the assistance of the said Palatime, the Jesnits, and the favour of the King himself, he entered the second time into Muscovy, well accompanied by Germanes, Poles, and Cosacks. Borits raises a most puissant Army to oppose him, but the infidelity of his people, together with some losses, deprived him both of courage, and desire of life: And so he died the 13^th of April, in the year 1605, not without suspicion of having voluntarily prevented his misfortune by despaire. His son was received by such as were of his faction: [Page 6]But the City of Mosco, together with all the Country, having admitted De­metrius for their Prince, he was forthwith cast in prison.

Now Demetrius had no sooner made his entry into the said City, but they began to murmure and say, that he was not the true Demetrius. The Lord Basil Chimouskie, for having said that he had caused the right Demetrius to be buried, brought his head upon a scaffold, which yet, by special favour, he brought back again to weare the Crown, and succeed the unfortunate Demetrius. O strange effect of Fate!

The aversion of the people from poor Demetrius appeared yet more, when they understood that he had acknowledged the Pope, and introduced the Jesuits, to work-about a Reformation. He married the daughter of his Foster-Father, who made her entry into the head City the 26 of April, in the year 1606.

The persidy of this treacherous people was clearly discovered a moneth after; namely, the 27 of May, and their rage began its first effect upon the Poles and other strangers, (who yet sold their skins dear enough) and others passed on to the Court, there to finish the last Act of the Tragedy. The Prince hearing of the tumult, left the company of his wife (wish whom he then was) got away, and leapt down from the top of a Tower, through a window, at the foot whereof (being found yet alive) he was forthwith dis­patched. This was done under the pretext of Religion.

He was a Prince of a great wit; a lover of hunting and warre, he had read much, was very ambitious, and went much in quest of the allyances of the Kings of Europe; and nominatively of that of the Great Henry of France, Thus unhappily ended Demetrius his dayes, in the very April of his age, and the cruelty of the barbarous multitude continued even upon his dead body, which they tore in pieces: so violent is hatred stirred up by Religion, against such as endeavour to change it, when fury has gotten the upper hand.

He was accused by a Declaration, to have been a Monk, an Heretick, and a Witch; and to have endeavoured to change the Religion of Russia; supplant the Nobility of the Country, and introduce that of Poland; to have layen with his wife in the presence of an image of our Lady, and many other things, which are tedious to rehearse. A memorable example of the insta­bility of Fortune, who when she most smiles is then most ready to shoot her inevitable shots of her irradicable hatred against such as love vertue and constance. It was necessary to recount this for the greater knowledge of what we are to publish concerning Muscovy, which hath selt the tragical ef­fects of Bellona, as well as the rest of Europe, whereof she is a good part.

CHAP. IV

THis Kingdome was governed by Sigismund of Sweden, and had no other enemy at that time then the Swedes, for the interest of their Prince. But before we give an account thereof, we will speak of the manners, and Origin of the Country.

Poland is of very vast distent, and takes her name from the great Fields which produce a huge quantity of Corn. The great Dukedome of Lithuania, is a part of this Kingdome; which is bounded on the one side by Muscovy; [Page 7]and on the other, Hungary, Germany, Livonia, and Prussia, or Borussia, to the Baltick Sea, there are many Fennes, Lakes, and huge Forrests;Poland full of Forrests and Fennes. as there likewise are through all the North, where, in the Trunks of Trees, is often found great store of hony, whereof they make a certain Drink (chiefly in Lithuania) which is most delicate, and yeelds not awhit in goodness to Spanish wine. Now here well deserves to be inserted, the story of a certain Peasant or Countriman, who being fallen by accident into one of the Trunks, which was full of hony, ran great hazard to be drowned,The story of is Peasant saved by a strange accident. without an almost miraculous succour, which came to him by chance: And it was, a Bear approaching the said place, to lick the hony (whereof these crea­tures are very lickorish) the poor man layd hold of his tayle; and the beast violently endeavouring to run away, drew the man out of this sweet, but fa­tall precipice. The winter is there very long and sharp; against the rigour whereof, the Inhabitants (who have no want of wood) serve themselves of stoves, and good furred gownes, as all the Northern people do.

The Nobility is very studious of Warre, and desirous of Travell, and in short, of an humour much like that of the French. They express their gal­lantry in the beauty of their Cloathes, Weapons, and Horses; in the sump­tousness of Feasts, Weddings, Funeralls, Christenings; and in numerous Trains of servants too, when they go a woing. They are very stout, and decide their quarrels for the most part by encounters: so that there are more Fights, then Duels. They are very good souldiers, whereof they have given frequent testimonies against the Turks, whom they oppose not with Fortifications and Bulwarks, for the defence of their Kingdome, and all Christendome; but with their Bodies, in the Field. The Tartars do them much hurt by surprizes; who as soon as they have done their feat, and find the Poles advancing, betake themselves to their heels with their pray, and fell their prisoners to the Turks, by whom they are made slaves.

The Polanders, (anciently called Sarmass) were very redoubtable to the Romans, and contemned their power, they embraced the doctrine of the Gospel, and since learning and sciences have been in Vogue amongst them, they are extremely civilized; as all other nations like wife are, which have changed the darkness of ignorance into light, and their brutish manners into amiable society. The Latin tongue is so common amongst them, that there are very few Gentlemen who do not speak it. The custome of draw­ing a sword, when the Priest recited the Gospel in the Mass, is now abolish­ed, for some misfortunes which happened thereby: however by this zealous action, they signified themselves to be willing to loose their lives for the de­fence of the Gospel, and for the ingrandizement and propagation whereof they have often tought against the Pagans, and do protect Christendome to this day against the puissance of the Infidels: Though yet, they were mo­ved by this very zeal, both inconsiderately and perfidiously to break the sworne Peace with the Great Turk; and were consequently all cut off, to­gether with their King Ʋladislans, near Varne. They are very strong and tall, and have faces able to imprint the figure of feare in the countenance of the most confident. They slight the rigour of the cold, and all other ob­stacles, which may hinder them from a glorious death. Yet is it also very true on the other side, that vice hath placed its dwelling there, as well as elsewhere; and that the contempt of the Lawes is not lesse amongst them, then in any other part of Europe. They who travell through Poland and Hungary, carry their beds with them yea, and sometimes their victuals too, to shunne the hazard of an ill supper, and a hard lodging. These two Nations have a fashion of cloathing almost alike, which doth differ very little, and they both weare furred Bonnets. The Romane Ca­tholick Religion is the chief; however there be other also permitted, and [Page 8]freely exercised amongst them; as namely, the Arrian, and many other old Heresies which are still croaking there: besides, the Greck Church hath also a great number of adherents there.

The Kingdome of Poland is Elective; and when the King is dead, the Arch­bishop of Gssue takes the Government of the State, and assembles the Senate and the Nobility for the election of another. During the Interreign, or va­cancy, there is committed great store of murthers and insolencies, which moves such as love the publick Quiet, to speed the Election. The Nobility hath most high priviledges, whereby the Kings authority is much bridled and retained within the Lawes of the Kingdom whereof in a word they are so jealous, that they alwayes mistrust their Prince, and imagine every moment, that he will either take their lawes from them, or at least diminish them, to make himself more absolute.

Murthers are not so rigorously punished here as in other parts of Chri­slendome. For a Gentleman shall be quit for killing of another with one years imprisonment, and if the person murthered be of a mean condition, for a small forfeit.

The Ecclesiasticks have huge Revenues, for which they are much envied. The most eminent dignities amongst them are to be Senatours, whom they call Waiwodes, Chatellans, and Starosts, which are charges of Captains. In a word, they are all equall, like Brothers, not enduring any superiority at all.

The Duke of Anioll elected King. The Kingdome being vacant by the decease of Sigismund, Queen Kathe­rine de Medicis, sent the Bishop of Valence thither for the Duke of Anioll her son, who was chosen with applause; and the eloquence of the said Bishop, prevailed much therein. The magnificencie of the Dukes Reception, made the French see that the Polanders skorn to fall short of any in gallantry. But his Reign proved not very long: For hearing of the death of King Charles, and preferring the Hereditary Crown of France before the Elective of Poland three moneths after his arrivall, he secretly departed; leaving the Polanders the repentance of having chosen him, and the trouble to choose another;Stephen Bato­rins succeeds. who sell out to be Stephanus Batorins Prince of Transylvania. He reigned ten yeares, reduced Dantsick to her obedience, kept the bordering places within their duty, and rejoyned Livonia to the Crown. He governed the Kingdome both happily and wisely, died in the resolution he had taken to subdue Muscavy to Poland; left great grief for his so sudden death amongst tho Poles, and a good odour of his vertues to posterity.

The Polanders, after the decease of King Stephen, found themselves in a dangerous sicknesse, by a division which threatned utter ruine to the Crown. The great Chancellour Samotskie, the Bishops, and many other of the great. Lords, elected Sigismund of Sweden sonne of King John, and Queen Katherine of Poland, daughter to Sigismund of Jaguellonne.

The other party had chosen Maximilian of Anstria, who entring [...] Poland with an Army made up in haste, besieged Warsaw; from whence be­ing repulsed,Maximilian forces. and recruting his forces in Silesia, he was the second time de­feated and, taken prisoner by the Great Chancellour aforesaid.

After these two victories was crowned Sigismund in the year 1587, and called by the name of Sigismund the third. He married Anne of Austria, who brought him a sonne named Ʋladislans, who afterwards was King of Poland. And this is that which we thought very sit to recount, and which must serve us for the present History of this Age.

Let us now passe into Sweden, and hear what the Swedes alledge against the Polanders, with the reasons and arguments both of the one and the other.

CHAP. V

SIgismund King of Sweden, endeavouring to put two Crowns upon his head, lost the Hereditary one. See how all passed, This young Prince had been brought up in the Roman Catholick Re­ligion, though yet he were the sonne of King Erick who embraced the Con­fession of Ausbourgh, and introduced it into his Kingdome. This Erick was sonne to King John, and Nephew to Charles Duke of Sudermanic, whom he left in Sweden to govern that Kingdome in his absence, in the quality of Vice-Roy.

Now it often chances, that Princes who have more then one kingdom, grow by little and little to loose the affections of their remote subjects, and their authority comes also by degrees to be eclipsed; in regard that their said subjects are not warmed by the heat of their favour, and prudence; and so others grow insensibly to take place, as well because their pre­sence winnes the affections of the said subjects; as also for that rea­sons are never wanting to such as have no will to obey: And besides, every one stands in fear of forraine Rule. But the most powerfull argu­ment of the coldness of subjects towards their Soveraigne, is diversity of Religions; which causes a change in State, and alters and shakes it so, as that many Princes for the strengthening and fixing of theirs, have believed that they neither could, nor ought to permit any more then one.

Sigismund goes into Sweden. King Sigismund hearing many complaints from Sweden, and conceaving some jealousies of his Uncle Charles, resolved, with leave of the States of Po­land, to transport himself thither with some Polish and German forces. He de­parted from Dantsick with a fleet of sixty Sayle, and was well received by the Governour of Colmar; from whom he went to see his sister at Ste­bourgh.

Duke Charles hastened towards him from Finland, with an Army to de­fend the kingdome against the King himself;Sigismund beaten. who (as it was published) came to take the Vice-King prisoner, and change the State by subverting Religion. So there occurred a fierce skirmish, wherein the Vice-King had the better, and Sigismund the King was forced to retite himself towards the Confines of Denmark. In fine, he was beaten again near Lincopin, and his Fleet taken. Upon which, seeing his Uncle thus courted by Fortu [...]e, through the mediation of some Lords, he was fain to make peace with him under certain conditions, by vertue whereof his Fleet was restored to him to go by Sea to Stockholm; Makes Peace and Duke Charles (in whose hands were put the prime Lords of Sweden, who had been to fetch the King in Poland) went thither by land.

Sigismund instead of going to the Assembly of States at Stockholm, went se­cretly out of the kingdom, which he thereby lost,He retires our of the kingdom. and regained Dantsick Some Authors have written, that he had been advertised of some ill design of his Uncle Charles against him: and a certain person who was then at Stockholm affirms, that he sighed for his having let slip the bird which he had in his hand. However, those Lords were beheaded, and their heads set upon stakes, which were since taken away upon the request of a great Wanyer.

Duke Charles quickly recovered those places of strength, which were in the Kings possession; chastised the Citizens of Lubeck who had favoured him, caused the States to approve of all his actions, and ranged the Finlan­ders (who held the Kings party) under obedience to himself. Some months [Page 10]after, the States deposed the King by a publick Decree, declaring him fallen from the Rights he had in the kingdom, and renouncing all fidelity to him; though yet still they were ready to receive his sonne Ʋladislans for King of Sweden, in case he would forthwith send him thither to be bred in the Re­ligion and customes of the Country.

But these conditions not seeming receivable, were not accepted by the King, and the proceedings of the States of Sweden cryed down by the Poles, who resolved to take an account of them with the sword.

This is the summe of what is known of that difference, which is yet re­maining between the Heires of these two Princes, and which is debated by very contrary reasons, according to the predominancy either of Passion or Religion, and according to the knowledge also of the Right of the Parties concerned.

The Polanders reproach the Swedes, for that without any available reason, and upon some ill grounded suspicions only; yea, even against all Right both Divine and Humane, they took the kingdom from Sigismund, to give it to Charles. To which the Swede; answer, that the King against his promise had endeavoured under hand to bring in the Jesuits, so to replant the Ro­man Catholick Religion, and strangers to check and curb them; and many other arguments there are both upon the one side, and the other, which I let passe in silence, and which are found at large elsewhere. Now you have had the words, take also some effects of their arms.

Duke Charles, after the reduction of Finlande, went into Livoma, where he gained some advantage upon Samonskie; besieged Riga, but in vain, and re­turned into Sweden in great danger to be drowned. When he had gotten the Crown upon his head, he gave the reasons thereof to all Christian Kings and Princes; justifying his proceedings the best he could, and seeking the allyance of his Neighbours, and chiefly that of the States Generall, Samonskie the Great Chancellonr aforesaid writ against him, and cried our upon his ambition, which greatly offended him, and gave subject of great grudges between them, which grew at length to implacable hatred.

Chules looset the Battel. Fortune frowned upon him at Riga: for his Army being much stronger then that of Poland, was rooted by General Cockevietz, who having senr four hundred of the Livonian horse over a River, to attack the Swedes in the Reer, wonne the Battel by this stratatagem; and so Livonia came to be un­der the Polanders, till the Reign of the Great Gustavus Adolphus, who redu­ced it to his obedience. All Livonia hath embraced the Lutheran Religion as well as Sweden, where it is held for one of their Fundamentall Lawes; as it also is almost through all the North.

Sweden is the biggest of all the Northern kingdoms, the Head City where­of is Stockholm, a Town (the Suburbs and Sea-thore, or strand comprised) of great distent. There are many huge Mountains, Rocks, and Forrests, where are sometimes heard great illusions, and phancies, as there likewise are in the water, which are very troublesome and terrible both to men and horses, which passe that way. The country is not much inhabited, and the chief Provinces are West-Gothland, East-gothland, from whence (as also from the rest of Sweden) according to the opinion of some Authours) came the Goths, who so much vexed the Romane Empyre. This kingdom is full of Copper and Iron Mines. The Swedes are good souldiers both by Sea and Land, and have given incredible examples of their valour both in Germany and Denmark, they are of a strong Complexion, and sit to endure hard­nesse and labour. The Nobility is very mild and frank; loves learning and languages, but especially Latin, and French; travels much abroad, is very dexterous at exercises, and honours and seeks learned company. Yea, and they have this vertue above all other nations, wherewith I have conversed; [Page 11]that they heartily love one another our of their own country, hide the vices of their Compatriots, and stand much for the honour of their nation.

The Peasants, or Country people send their Deputies to the Assemblies of the States, to the end that nothing be coucluded there, to the prejudice of their priviledges. King Gustave, and Queen Christine his Daughter now reigning, created much new Gentry, (which in some sort is disdained by the ancient Families) in regard the Nobility of the kingdom was almost exhausted by the Warres.

CHAP. VI

DEnmark is a kingdom, the best part whereof consists of Islands, as name­ly, Zeland and Fionia. The Province of Scania reaches up to Sweden, and Jutland to Holstein. It was peacefully gouerned by the prudent conduct of King Christian the fourth, successour to Frederick the second his Father, and Duke of Holstein. During his minority he had four Counsellours, to help him to bear the charge of the Government. He was crowned the 29^th of August, in the year 1596.

The principal strength of this Kingdom consists of good and stately ships, whereof the King hath a considerable number, as well for the defence of his said Islands, as for that most important passage of the Sownd, which is the streight that separates Scania from Zeland, and which is of huge advan­tage, by reason of the infinity of ships which must passe over it to go into the Baltick Sea: in the same manner, that those of all the Havens of the said Sea, and bound for the Ocean, are forced to passe that way.

The Nobility of Denmark, as also that of Holstein, is much more inclined to warres then learning; zealous for their liberty and Rights, and makes no allyance by marriage with the common people; a maxime much ob­served through all the North, Poland, and Germany. They rufuse Ecclesia­stical Honours as below their condition, defend their priviledges, and make no esteem of others, though by their experience and knowledge, they may merit the best Offices and Employments in the Country.

The Government is not much unlike that of Poland, in both which Ele­ctive Kingdomes the Kings undertake nothing of importance, without the consent of the States and Nobility. The Gentlemen are all equall, and as it were of one Family; there being neither Earl nor Baron. The Officers of the Crown, and Counsellours of the kingdome, have the preheminency, and assist the King in the most weighty affaires of the Countrey.

Norway (an Hereditary kingdom) opposite to Great Britain, or England, It is very big, but very desert, and hath no considerable Towns, but such as are near the Sea side. It yeelds great store of fish, wood, boards, and good skins.

These three kingdomes were heretofore under the government of the King of Denmark: But the Swedes not being able to suffer the tyranny of Christian the second, divided themselves from his obedience.

They all follow the Lutheran Religion; and the Capitall City of Denmark is Coppenhaghen; a very fair town, situated upon the streight of the Sownd near the Baltick Sea; a passage of about four leagues, most pleasant and re­creative, by means of a Forrest which borders upon the Sea from Coppen­haghen to Elsener: of which passage, because it is so much envyed, we will hereafter speak more at large.

The Peasants of Denmark and Poland are treated almost like slaves; for the greatest part of the Nobility licentiously abusing their liberty, despises all who are not Gentlemen: A fault which hath drawn ruine upon many Families, which boasted of the story of their Ancestours. But it is not enough to be born a Gentleman, unlesse it appear by vertuous, laudable, and generous actions.

CHAP. VII

ENgland is a most fertile, and most potent Island, as well for scituation, as men and ships. There reigned Queen Elizabeth, a Princesse as hap­py in her allyances, success of arms, and love of her subjects, as ever was. She was Daughter to Henry the 8^th, and Sister to Mary and Edward. She changed the Religion, & declared her self Head of the Church. She was alwaies well served: She sent strong succours to the King of Navarre, and her subjects wonne many victories by Sea from the Spaniard, against whom she continu­ed her hatred, even till her death, in favour of the Ʋnited Provinces of the Low-countries. She was a sworne enemy to the Roman Catholick Religi­on, and seemed to have made it her task to destroy that, as well as she had the King, who bears the surname of it.

Scotland is a kingdom which makes a part (but not the better part) of this Island. There reigned as King, Lames Stewart; a Prince esteemed very wise, who resented not at all the death of his Mother Mary, who was beheaded in England, preferring the hope of succession to the said kingdom before revenge, courting the favour of the Queen, and treading all other considerations un­der foot. But heaven left nothing unpunished, which often revenges inno­cence upon the Innocent themselves, to chastise them who have not re­venged it.

He married Anne Sister to Christian King of Denmark, and lived in peace: which yet was disturbed by dreadful conspiracy of a certain Earle called Gore, whose Father was beheaded in the end of the said Kings mino­rity. Now this Gore returning from travel, sent his brother to the King as he was hunting, whom when he had made believe, that there was a certain man who had found a great pot full of gold, he led him into his said bro­thers Cabinet, or Closet, where, had he not been succoured by his follow­ers, he had been unhappily murthered. The Tragedy was afterwards acted upon them, who intended themselves to have been the actors thereof, and the murtherers were justly murthered. In this tragedy, they who were cu­rious, found such mysteries, as their modesty kept in silence. The Scots are held good souldiers, but they were never very fortunate against the English.

Ireland is an Island both big and fruitfull, between Spain and England; where the English have exercised great power and authority, as well in re­spect of Religion, as for the Rebellion of the Irish against Queen El'zabeth, & calling the Spaniards to help them. But they grew at length to be conque­red, and have long been governed since by Deputies, or Vice-Kings, under a most austere Disciplipe, which hath constrained some of them to flye to the main Land, and others to retire themselves into the Woods and Forrests, amongst the wild beasts, to seek their liberty, after their own fashion.

This Island was heretofore conquered by the Saxons, and a long time af­ter by the Norman under William the Conquerour. Their lawes have some [Page 13]resemblance to those of Normandy, and Guienne, which they had some ages in their possession; where the Eldest sonnes take almost all the succession of their Parents, leaving but very little to their Brothers, and Sisters. A very rough Law, and almost quire contrary to that of Poland; where when the Eldest hath divided the said succession, the younger takes the first Portion, and after him the other; so that the last of all is left to the Eldest.

The English are good Souldiers both by Sea and Land, not in valour and courage inferiour to any one Nation whatsoever, and are more apt to offend by temerity, and overmuch forwardnesse, then cowardise.

Inghilterra, bona terra, & mala gente. The Nobility is generally very courteous, and chiefly such as have travel­led. England (sayes a famous Italian) is a good Country, but the Inhabitants are very bad. The English are little affected to other Nations, and especially to the French, from whom they have a great aversion; nor can the French or Scots on the other side endure the incompatible humour of the English.

After they had lost what they possessed in France, and all the intelligence they had there, they fell for a long time to Civill Warres: But since, under the reign of four Kings, and two Queens, they have seen various persecuti­ons, not only about Religion, but for matter of State too, where of we will speak in the sequel of this History.

The women are incomparably beautifull, and consequently have a great influence upon the men; yea, the Queens have commanded there more absolutely, and have been much better obeyed and respected then the Kings. They treat their servants and horses very roughly; which gave birth to the Proverb, That England is Heaven for Women, Purgatory for servants, and Hell for horses.

King James, to smother the hatred and partiality which had alwayes been between the people of these Islands, by laudable advice, entituled him­self King of great Britain.

The Title of King of France, which was possessed by many Kings of Eng­land, hath alwayes checked the Salick Law, which excludes the Heyres Fe­mall of France from the Crown: so that though the English possessed almost the whole kingdom of France, it was more by the right of Arms, then by that of the Lawes and Customes.

Let us now leave Great Britain, and look upon Italy, where there are many Seates and Republicks, whereof we shall make but little mention, to shun superfluities, and keep our selves within the limits prescribed in this History.

CHAP. VIII. Of Italy, Lorraine, and Savoy.

POpe Clement the 8^th held the Chaire, and by the prudent administration of him, the Venetians, and the Great Duke of Tuskany, there flourished a Peace throughout all Italy. Every one preserved himself within his own in­terests; nor could any little jealousies take root, to the loss of the publick Quiet: but it was suddenly strangled in the Cradle, by wise conduct, and most subtile policy.

The Popes, as well by donation as other practises, have not onely augmented the Patrimony of St. Peter, but drawn also all the Soveraign Au­thority to themselves, by removing the Emperours from the knowledge of the Affaires of Italy.

The Faction of the Guelphes for the Popes, the Gibelms for the Empe­rours, [Page 14]reigned there long, and was not consopited or quieted, but by eclip­sing almost the whole Majesty of Emperours by endeavouring to constrain them to receive the Crown from their hands: A difference not quite ex­tinguished yet. Besides, that they have ever been unhappy enough in pur­suing their Right by Arms, the Italians cutting them out work enough amongst themselves, and often hindring their coming out of Germany; so that all the splendour of the Empyre remaines there, and is no otherwise known throughout almost all Italy, then only by name.

Under the Reign of Valentinian, the Western Empire was much tottered by the Barbarians, which forced most of the principall Families near the Sea, to retire into the Islands of the Adriatick Streights, and there lay the Founda­tions of that most puissant City of Venice, and of that most Serene Republick, which hath encreased, maintained, and conserved herself these twelve ages, by an unparallelled blessing; by the most perfect observance of the Lawes, and by a policy worthy of admiration. This gives just cause to judge, that they who began her, were of the most elevated and prime of all Italy; and not slaves, as they were who laid the first stone to the Common-wealth of Rome.

In the Peace which was made between the Emperour Charlemayne, and the Emperour of Constantinople, it was concluded, than that Common­wealth which had already stood more then three ages and a halfe, should serve for a bound and gate to the two Empyres. They had for a long time in their possession the kingdom of Gypres, which the Turks have now taken from them. They have had many enemies, and have often by their great prudence diverted the storms which have been ready to fall upon them, and by the dexterity of their mannagements, regained that which they had lost by the fate of Arms. That mad League of the Pope, the Emperour, and the Kings of France and Spain, would have invaded any other State but theirs: so much amazement did it strike into those Areopages; who yet, by their rare industry were able to untangle this fatal conjuncture, and save their Common-wealth from the shipwrack wherewith she was much threatned. In fine, after that peace which they had made with the Turk, and which followed close upon the glorious Battel (but with small fruit) of Lepante, they finished that Age and began this present, in good intelligence with their Neighbours.

The King of Spain enjoyes in Italy the kingdomes of Naples and Sicily, and the Duchy of Milan, upon which States the French have also their pretenti­ons, which often cause frequent warres between the two Crownes, whereof we shall speak towards the end of this Treatise, in the revolution of those last tumults.

The Grand Duke of Tuskany, the Dukes of Mantua, and Parma, keep their Seates in peace, and the Common-wealth of Genoa hers, tyed fast (for her profit) to the interests of Spain. Charles Emanuel Duke of Savoy, a Prince as subtle as inconstant (but yet unlucky enough) for having seized upon the Marquisat of Salluces, found himself forced to put on his harnesse, and to leave his rest in the first year of this age, as we shall hereafter shew; neither his journey to Paris, nor all the politick craft he could use, being able to war­rant him from this check. The Dukes of Savoy are very potent, and often seen to make the skale hang towards that Crown, to which they leane. France seeks their friendship to have the gate open into Italy, in the intrigues whereof she finds her self passionately concerned.

Lorraine was governed by Duke Charles, a milde Prince, who still com­plained of the wrong which the enemies of the League (whereof the Princes of that house were the chief) had made him suffer. This Province (which divides Germany from France) is very fruitfull, and takes her name [Page 15]from the Emperour Lotarius and her Princes, their Descent from Charle­magne. They have alwayes been great Warriers, and Godfree of Bouillon, through zeal of piety, went and conquered the Holy Land.

The Dukes of Lorraine, for interest of State, keep good correspondence with their Neighbours; and the last misfortune which happened in this Duchy, was caused rather by the decline of the Emperours Affayres, and the ambition of him who thought all lawfull to him, then by the fault of the Prince, who could not shelter himself from that storme, which had already shivered both Masts, Sayles, and Helme.

These States aforesaid, in regard they never knew any Religion but that of Rome, suffer not any other so much as to bud, or spring there, and if per­adventure there be any one found in Lorraine, who hath embraced the Pro­testant Religion, he retires himself to Metz, or Geneva, and they of the Coun­try of Luxenbourgh to Sedan. Diversity of Religions parts humours, gives de­sire of motion to such as are ambitious, and makes a Prince very little loved by them who are not of the same opinion.

We have already gone round about Europe, therefore let us now enter in­to the middle, and speak of those great Monarchies, which by their moti­ons have shaken all other States, as being governed according to the influ­ences thereof, and accommodating their interests to the ballance of their greatnesse. For since Warre hath been declared between Spain and France, very few Princes have stood Neutrall; some having joyned their forces to the party most necessary for them, and some others (though but specta­tors) have not yet forborne to poise more to the one side then the other. But none have been willing to have either of these Crowns suppressed by the other, for the apprehension and fear wherein they all are of a Generall Monarchy.

CHAP. IX

NOw to get entire knowledge of the interests of these two Crownes, of the Causes which so often arm them, to the great detriment of Christen­dom, and the apprehensions which they give of aspiring to a general Mo­narchy, though by unequall and different wayes, we must goe up to the source, and so come quickly down again, drawing from thence a true ex­planation for our subject, which we will follow as our guide, to the end of our Course.

France being delivered from the warres with England, and wholly resto­red to her self, as well by the help of forren, as the help of her Neighbours, and even the very Spaniards themselves, with whom she had a close friend­ship at that time. Having (I say) shaken off the yoke of the English, who were expelled from Guyenne, and Normandy; she became the most puissant Monarchy of Europe.

King Charles the 8^th went to feaze upon the kingdom of Naples, which was no sooner got then lost by his departure thence, Lewis the twelfth ha­ving made an Alliance with Ferdinand of Castile, for the recovery of the kingdom enters Italy, surprises Milan, and the unjust usurper Sforce, and so retakes the said kingdome of Naples. But it sometimes happens, that the sharing of stakes makes friends foes; for these Allyes fell to oddes, and Consalve having in many Encounters routed the French, setled the king­dome [Page 16]upon the Castilians: and the power and reputation of the Spaniards encreased much, by the valour of the great Captain.

The first reason of the hatred between the Spaniards, and the French. Francis the first, having broken the Swissers in a great Battail, easily made himsel Master of the Duke dome of Milan and consequently of the kingdom of Naples. But Fortune smiled upon the French only to betray them: For she suddenly turned to the Spaniards, who took King Francis prisoner, and established themselves in the said kingdome, and in the State of Milan. Now from hence proceeded the hatred between the two Nations, which hath since been augmented according to occurrences of State-jealousies, and other considerable accidents, whereof we will here give a short hint.

The second rea­son. But there is a second and a more pregnant reason, for which not only France, but the neighbouring States also have conceived apprehensions of jealousies, which is that of the Union of Spain by marriage with the houses of Austria and Burgundy, and the latter of these began thus. Philip de Valois, (none to John the sixth King of France, for having well defended his Father in a Battail against the English, was by marriage made Duke of Burgundy, and Prince of the Low-countries, and John his sonne succeeded him not onely in all the Provinces of his Parents, but in the hatred also which he bore to the House of Orleans. Now, this young Prince going with a great force of the Nobility of France, and the Low-countries into Hungary, against the Turk, fell into the hands of Bajazet, who would have caused him to be be­headed, as well as the rest of the prisoners, had he not been advised to put him to a Ransom, and send him home; and this because it was discovered in his physiognomy, that he should one day become the Author of much disturbance to Christendome: which afterwards proved true. For he caused the Duke of Orleans to be massacred, which raised a huge warre between these two illustrious Houses, to the great advancement of the Eng­lish affaires in France. But now, for the remedy of all those evills, a Peace was made, and Duke John assassinated in a Conference in the presence of the Dolphin. Now this dismal chance, this unseasonable revenge, and this mad Counsell was the cause why the English assisted by the Burgundians and Flemmings, made themselves masters of almost all the kingdome of France. For Philip surnamed the Good, joyned with the English, to revenge the death of his Father against Charles the seventh.

In fine, there happening a civil warre in England between the Houses of Lancaster and York, the White and Red Rose, and Duke Philip drawing his stake out of the play; the English came by degrees to loose all they had gotten in the said kingdome. This good Prince instituted and established the Order of the Golden Fleece in the year 1430, and tyed so by succession all those Provinces into one body, to which Charles the Combatant annexed the Duchy of Guelders sold to him by Duke Arnolt, for the summe of 92 thousand Crowns. The pretensions of the Duke of Juleers, or Gulick, were also gran­ted by consent of the Emperour Frederick in consideration of the summe of eighty thousand Florens in gold. He left one only Daughter named Mary of Valois, who was a very vertuous Princess, and was married to Maxmilian of Austria; and her death proved fatall to the Low-countries in respect of the war which followed there. Her sonne Philip having renewed his alliance with Henry the seventh, went into Spain and married Iane of Castile, who brought him Charles of Austria. And thus, these Provinces being bound first to the House of Burgundy, and then to that of Austria, came last into the possession of that of Spain; which by the discovery and conquest of the Indies (happen­ing almost at the same time) is become most puissant and terrible, as well to other States and Princes, as also to the Ottomans themselves; who seeing the Romane Empyre governed by a Prince of this Family loaden with so many Crowns and so many potent States, take no small pleasure in seeing so many Schismes amongst the Christians.

Charles being chosen Emperour, had Francis the first for his Competitor, which kindled great Warres between them. The success whereof was, that Francis being taken prisoner, promised (though he performed not) to re­store the Duchy of Burgundy and renounce the Rights which the Kings of France had had in some Provinces of the Low-countries, land Italy: so that the Heyres of Charles remained a long time in the quiet and peacefull possession of them; France being enough embroyled at home by the tender youth of three Kings (all sonnes to Henry the second) and by Civill Warre, with­out looking back into old quarrels.The House of Austria encrea­sed by Marria­ges and Navi­gation. And here we may see how by marria­ges and Navigations, the House of Austria is both amplified and elevated; which hath maintained her self by arms, given jealousies to the Princes of Europe by her victories, and struck sear and hatred into the soules of the Pro­testants; who have made Leagues to uphold themselves, and put a flea into the eare of France; which hath abandoned the interests of Religion to make her self great, and check this formidable power. From this Knot or Tye of so many Crowns, and great States together, (wherewith the King of Spaines head is burthened,) sprang that ticklish, and indissoluble diffe­rence of precedency or preheminency, which the Kings of France by the title of (Eldest sonnes of the Church, and most Christian Kings) have alwayes attri­buted to themselves.

CHAP. X

The Evils in France through State-jealousie. FRance by the deplorable death of Henry the second, grew in a very short space to sink into calamities, which dured to the end of the last Age. The evil began in the minority of Francis the second, and under the Regency of Katharin de Medicis; through a jealousie which thrust it self in amongst the Princes of the Blood, the Constable Montmorency, the Counts of Chattillon, and Andelot, Admiral Caspar de Colligny, and other Lords on the one side; and the Dukes of Guise, the Princes of the House of La [...]rraine, and other Noblemen on the other. The Princes complained of the Guisards, or them of the House of Guise (whom in mockery, and to make them odious, they termed strangers) had the mannagement of all the Affaires of France in their hands. They almost all embraced the Reformed Religion, which at that time began to encrease much through the whole kingdome, where­of they declared themselves Protectors.

The chief motive of hatred betwixt these two most illustrious and anci­ent Families, grew from a jest which the Admiral de Colligny cast upon the Duke of Guise, concerning the taking of Theonnille. A prick of a Lance, which drew such a deluge of blood, as no Chirurgion was able to stench.Hatred be­tween these two Houses for a jest. The greatest part of the Ecclesiasticks, and the most zealous of the Romane Ca­tholicks took the Party of the King, and the Guisards. Many Battails were fought, many Siedges of Townes laid, and many Peaces made, and no soo­ner made then broken. In fine, under Charles the ninth, at the Wedding of the King of Navarre at Paris, upon the Eve of Saint Bartholomew, hapned that abhominable Massacre so much, and so justly exclained against by the Protestants, and blamed even by the Romane Catholicks themselves. In the Reign of Henry the third was made a League, called the Holy League, for the exclusion of Henry de Bourbon from succession to the Crown, as being [Page 18]an Heretick, whereof the Duke of Guise, (a Prince of courage and high esteem) was the Head, who having routed the Reyters, or Germane Horse, ented Paris in despight of the King, where he was received by the Citizens with excess of honours; and when the showes of joy were ended, they rai­sed certain Barricadoes, which made the King retire himself to a place of safety. A Fatall Honour to all subjects, how innocent soever they be.

For redress of these disorders, there was a Peace endeavoured betwixt. the King and the Duke. The place of Treaty was Blois, where the King (con­trary to his Royal Word given him) caused both him and the Cardinal his Brother, to be treacherously murthered. His Children were saved by the Queen-Mother; for the King had resolved to extirpate the whole Race, thereby to prevent the danger of revenge.

Paris revolted, and in imitation thereof, many other Townes besides: The King applied himself to the Huguenot Party, and sent for the King of Navarre, which rendered him still more odious, and caused him to be pub­lished for an Heretick. He besieged Paris, but was unhappily stabbed by a Monk, whereof he died, having already declared Henry of Bourbon for his true successour, and Heyr to the Crown; to whom he also left a third Dis­pute for the kingdome of Navarre. This stab extinguished the Race of the Valois, ended the life of the Prince, and there with also the desire he had to inflict a rigorous chastisement upon the City of Paris,

CHAP. XI

THe King of Spain was in no lesse trouble about the Low-countries, for the conservation whereof, he spared not his Treasures brought him from the Indies; nor followed lesse the Counsell of Cardinal Granvel, then the Roman Catholicks of France did that of the Cardinal of Lorraine. But the Prince of Orange assisted by the Protestants of Germany, eluded their care, in such sort, as that neither the wise conduct of the Duchesse of Parma, nor the rough proceedings of the Duke of Alva, nor the very presence of King Philips Brother himself, no nor the inimitable valour of that Great Italian Alexander, was able to prevaile so farre, but that seven Provinces untied themselves from obedience to the King, and formed a potent Common­wealth amongst themselves, by the change of Religion; without which, it is very probable, that neither the situation, nor the Rivers, not all that which could hurt the Spaniards, would have been able to secure or defend them against the potency of Spain.

But now from whence came all these disorders? Who laid the first stone, and fixed the foundation of so dismal and fatall a Warre? There are many causes, and divers pretexts thereof to be noted. We will therefore go to the fountain, since the streams are sufficiently known. Under the General Title of Low-countries, are comprised seventeen Provinces; so rich, so well peo­pled, so full of fair Towns, and big Villages, together with the situation and strength of the Inhabitants, that if they were united together, I know not who would presume to attach them, how powerful so ever he were, either by Sea or Land. But plenty doth not more disunite people then want, and the winde of ambition raises not lesse storm, then ill-taken zeal in Religion. [Page 19]These Countries have been almost a whole Age the Theater of a most sad, and dreadful Warre, caused by the two aforementioned Passions, which have brought them to this state, wherein they are seen at present. They had every one their Prince or Go [...]ernour apart; but by little and little, as well by Marriages, and Successions, as other means, they grew to be devolved un­der the House of Burgundy, and afterwards under that of Austria, as we have noted already. For, during the Warres of the Emperour Charles the sift, and Francis the first, they were governed by the Queen of Hungary, Sister to the aforesaid Charles. In fine, this good Prince having with an un­parallelled example of resolution, transferred all his States upon his sonne Philip, and the Empyre upon his Brother Fordinand, so to retire himself into a private condition; the said King Philip his sonne before his departure, gave the government of the aforesaid Provinces in generall to his Sister, and in particular, to some certain Knights of the Golden Fleece, who had faithfully served both his Father and himself in the Warres against France. Now the Order given to pluck up the tender plants of new opinions in Re­ligion, was by such as hunted after a Change in State, interpreted for the Spanish Inquisition, and the retardment of the forraine Militia for the main­taining thereof. The introduction of new Bishops made a double operati­on, by giving an Alarme as well to the Clergy, as to them who had embra­ced the profession of a Religion, which excluded both Old and New. The Governesse (notwithstanding the coldnesse of some prime Ministers) stopped the disease with agreeable nutriment, and a sleight bleeding; and so rendered a superficial kind of health to this Body, so much stuffed with ill humours. But King Philip irritated by the contemp of his authority, and com­mandments, had recourse to the arms of Justice; which by violent proceed­ings, applies both Sword and Fire; amazes the Good, represses the audacity of others; inexorably punishes the bad, and by demanding the tenth pen­ny reversed or overthrew all that, which was no more then shaken before.

Thus have you the seeds of the Evills, which gave birth to those long warres, which have had divers qualifications and various successes under many Governours; who like unskilfull Physitians either performed not their care, or else prescribed all things contrary, because the Disease was incura­ble. Some make William Prince of Orange Authour of all those troubles; and others impute it to the cruelty of the Duke of Alva. But be it what it will, this People (being very intense upon the conservation of their priviledges, and most prone to jealousie, motion, and surprise) was more agitated by the passion of others, then by their own, so that Ambition urging them to act under the pretence of priviledges and liberty of conscience; and rigour fal­ling upon them, to make them unseasonably stoop to the commandments of their Master, urged them to fly to the Sword. Insomuch, as sometimes, neither naked Justice, nor Treaties of Reconciliation, were able to soften their exasperated and irritated Hearts: And such of these Provinces as are nearest the Sea, shewed then another kind of countenance both to the Church and Government; and being succoured by their jealous Neigh­bours, continued this warre with much advantage.

The King gives the Low-coun­tries to the In­tanta his Daughter. The King therefore being tired with so prolix a warre, made over all the the Provinces to his Daughter Isabell; but it was, after he had sent Alexan­der twice into France, to relieve the Leaguers, or Confederates, which much advanced their Affaires, and gave them meanes to lay about them, for the settlement of their Common-wealth. And this was the state of things in the Low-countries, towards the end of the Age.

Now Cardinal Albert was sent from Spain to govern the aforesaid Pro­vinces, who brought the Prince of Orange with him, and falling in his Enter­prise [Page 20]upon Marseilles, through the vigilancie of the Dake of Guise, he took possession of his aforesaid Government, by the resignation of the Conde de Fuentes, who had not long before seised upon Cambray and Dourlens. Albert hearing that La Fere was streightned by King Henry, resolved to make a di­version, which might either be able to raise the siege, or at least to recom­pence the losse of the said place, in case it were taken. Wherefore, he sent Monsieur de Rosne, to besiege Calis, which he quickly took, together with the Town of Ardre, notwithstanding the succour from England and Holland. La Fere rendred it self at the end of seven months siege; and that which hap­pened afterwards of most importance for the good of the Crown of France, was the Reconciliation of the Duke of Mayenne, and the rest of the League with King Henry.

Albert resolved to make the united Provinces also feel the stroake of his Arms: And so he presented himself before Ostend (an Apple not yet ripe) and afterwards before Hulet, which after many Assaults, he at length carri­ed. But the Marshall de Rosue had his Head taken off by a Canon Bullet, and more then three thousand souldiers were also slaine. The year follow­ing, Prince Maurice had his revenge near Turnhawt, where he cut off the Troops of the Count de Varax.

In the month of March of the same year, Hernantello Governour of Dour­lens, like a Fox surprised Amiens by a stratagem, to the great astonishment of all France, and the King retook it like a Lion, after six moneths siege. He passed thither with strong forces, and thought to have given a just retaliation to the Spaniards by surprising Arras; but he was repulsed by the young Count of Buquoy, who after wards rendred great and remarkable services to the Em­perour, as we shall shortly shew.

During the time of these changes, the Pope forbore not to represent to the King the misfortunes and mischiefes which this long Warre brought upon Christendome; and beseeched him to hearken to a good and firm Peace with the King of Spain; especially, being invited thereto by the disor­ders of his own kingdome, and the fear of a new Revolt, more dangerous then the former. There was none but the Queen of England, and the Con­federated States who endeavoured by advantageous offers to divert him, and keep him on horse-back: Though yet he dissembled their reproaches, and answered, that the Queen was a gainer by this warre; but for his part, that his people was exhausted, and that he received many and great dam­mages from the Spaniards, who promised by this Peace, to render all they had gotten in France: That he was obliged as a good King, and a good Father, to solace and refresh his poor subjects. So that all their offers, and many more,the Peace of Vervin. 2598. were not able to hinder this holy work, which was concluded and established at Vervin in the moneth of May, 1598.

The King of Spain also for his part was urged to make Peace, as seeing himself crazed with age, and having a young Prince, and a Princesse (his children) to marry, and Fortune very often against him: Besides three ene­mies upon his back; as France, and the Confederated Provinces, which threa­tened him with the utter losse of the Low-countries; and England, which either destroyed or spoyled his Fleets upon the Ocean, endangered thereof the Indies, and put him to great charges to secure it; and lastly, their taking of Cales, the prime key of the kingdom, and other Places.

Now by vertue of this Peace, the places were restored: But the pretenti­ons, which each of these Kings hath to some certain Demaynes of the other, were not taken away: From whence sprang the seed of new Warres, which were one day to smoother the promises of arming no more, even though there should be occasion for it. The Peace was received by the poor people with such showes of joy, and teares of tendernesse, as cannot be com­prehended [Page 21]but by such as have suffered, and almost lost all.

The States in the mean while, let not these occasions slip, by the great distance of the Cardinals forces. For Prince Maurice marched into the Field, took Bergh, Grol, Oldenseel, Lingen, and some other places; which progress purchased him the reputation of a very great Captain, and of un­derstanding the profession of the Militia, as well as any man of his time.

After the publication of the Peace, Philip the second by his Letters Patents dated at Madrid the 6^th of May, 1598. conferred all the Low-countries, to­gether with the Duchy of Burgundy upon the Infanta Isabell his Daughter; to which the Prince her Brother consented, and confirmed it both by oath and writing; upon condition, that if the said Princesse came to die without children, the said Provinces should return to the Dominion of Spain; be­sides many other Clauses, too long to recite.

Now, forasmuch as the actions of great persons are examined, and either approved or disapproved, according to every ones passion; this which I here note, was not forgotten by the contrary party. All things are profitable; yea, Lyes themselves (provided they last four and twenty hours) are of utility and ad­vantage.

CHAP. XII

THe Allyes of both parties were invited to the Peace of Vervin; but the Queen of England not being able to induce the States to it, resolved to joyn with them in warre, under conditions of more advantage to her then before. This gave the Arch-Duke subject to complain of her, for continu­ing a warre with so great stomack and grudge upon him, by whom she had never been offended.

But he having now received the Procuration of the Infanta his Wife, was acknowledged, and received for Prince of the Low-countries, and he wrote a Letter to the Confederated States, but received no Answer.The Arch-Duke goes into Spain. He departed for Spain with the Prince of Orange, and passed through Germany to conduct Queen Margaret of Austria, nominating for Governour during his ab­sence Cardinal Andrew; and the Admirall of Arragon for Captain Ge­neral; who led a strong Army into Cleveland, and Westphalia, where he took Rinberg, and many other small places; and made his Winter-Quar­ter there, notwithstanding the complaints of the Lower-Ceroles. He sent La Bourlette to the Isle of Bommel, took Crevecoeur, laid siege to Bommel, which he was forced to raise; and so after he had built the Fort of St. Andrews, he retreated into Brabant, where his souldiers began to mutiny for want of pay. The Ceroles had raised another Army, which was disbanded for want of order; some of them being for the Spaniards, and the other for the States. It is in vain to lead great forces into the Field, without a good purse to maintain them, and good counsell to encourage them.

The death of King Philip. King Philip lived not long after the conclusion of the Peace, which he also wished both with the English and Hollanders, as being desirous to die in Peace. He was long tormented with a feaver, and two impostumes; and in fine, his whole body was so wasted, that it was pittiful to behold, But more admirable was his patience, to suffer all as he did without murmuring. He commanded [Page 22]like a great Prince, and died like a good Christian. In the beginning of his Reign he was happy, but in the decline of his age, he saw the losse of one part of the Low-countries, and received many other dammages from the English. He was much blamed for not coming himself in person into Bra­bant, and for proceeding too roughly with that people, which had been so affectiona [...]e to the Emperour Charles, and in fine, for constituting two Ge­nerals over the Fleet, surnamed The Invincible.

The Father stripped himself of his States two years before his death, to attend to pious exercises; And the Sonne two years before his: was affli­cted with grievous pains and torments, which he suffered with superlative patience. Some Writers, who take pleasure in looking back into the Cau­ses of such accidents, within the secrets of the Almighty, have presumed to publish that it was a punishment from heaven, for the cruelties which his Go­vernours had practised, as well in the Low-countries, as in the Indies. Others of more moderation have believed, that God had a mind to shew in the per­son of this porent Prince, that all the Greatness of this world is nothing but dust and vermin.

There is nothing constant in this world, but the constant order of Change and Vicissitude. The I'underbolt strikes none but the highest Towers, and loftiest Mountaines.

By his endeavouring to succour the League in Franc [...], he lost the confede­rated Provinces: And in the design of invading England, he lost a most powerfull Navy, and armed enemies against his States, who gave him much displeasure and trouble.

CHAP. XIII

THe knowledge of the difference of the Town of Embden, with the Earls thereof, is to be joyned to that of the Low-countries; and so by conse­quence, it is convenient to mention it here. When Townes grow strong, they ordinarily loose their will to obey; for which they never want either examples or pretexts, whether it be of Religion or Priviledge; yea, and to accuse the weaker party of injustice too, if they get a good issue in it.

Now this Town whereof we are speaking being very much encreased and enriched by the great number of people which repaired thither, there to seek (as it were) a sanctuary, from the rigorous execution of the Placarts of the Duke of Alva, against all such as had licentiously, (and perhaps by old priviledges) broaken Images, and thrown down Altars; as also for the con­veniencie of the Haven, which was held then, and still is, one of the best of the Low-countries, and of the North Seas.

In the first place, the Citizens began to murmur against their Count; say­ing, that he would clip their priviledges and Religion: That he bad already introduced a new one into his own House; That he raised souldiers under­hand; That he forbad the Consistorial Assemblies, and the like. A bold, and licentious pretext.

T [...]ults in the Town. Now, their humours being thus prepared, there wanted nothing but a hot, [...]iry and zealous Preacher to set them a work, who also was quickly found in the person of one Mentzo Alting (a man odious to the Count for some im­portant [Page 23]reasons) who got up into the Pulpit, desplayed his Rhetorick, cry­ed down his Masters actions, foretold the ruine of the Town, endeavored to excuse himself of what was imposed upon him, protested to be gone with the consent of the Townsmen; however he were content to stay with his Flock, and live and die with his sheep, and the like. Words no lesse audacious, then those of the Priests (whom a certain learned person called Baals elsewhere) for the League in France. It concerns not Church-men to blow the Trumper, nor such as thrust their noses into State-matters through passion of Religi­on, to excuse in some, what they accuse in others.

Iliacos intra muros peccatur, & extra.

These reasons were as welcome to the people (which loves Novelty in State, provided it be preached) as a draught of water uses to be to a thirsty person. In short, they arm, they choose six Collonels amongst the Citizens; they invoke that Great God, who hears and sees all; and at length, they turn their Ordnance upon the Counts Pallace. O brave proceeding! O true forms of Justice! The Count asks the reason of this novelty, and whe­ther they disowned their obedience to the Emperour, the Empyre, and himself? They answered, that they had taken arms for Religion, and their own defence, against many falfe accusations: That they made no difficulty to acknowledge the Emperour and him as their Lords, and whatever else should be reasonable. In these Contests they rush upon his House, making themselves Masters thereof by force, and dispatch their Embassadours to the Haghe, as the Count also did his; he to complain of the insolency of his subjects, and they to justify their actions. The effect of these Embasies was, that they put themselves under the protection of the States,A Garrison of the States in the Town. and took a Gar­rison of a thousand men into the Town, to the disadvantage of the said Count; who at last was fain to suffer his House to be shut up, and some other extremities, which have much weakned and skattered his authority-The Townesmen embraced the Reformed Religion, yea, and they threw the Bowle yet farther: For, by a more ancient priviledge they had a grant of a Religion, conform with that of Ausbourgh. See Emmanuel de Merten.

From this disorder sprang much good to the united Provinces, by secu­ring to themselves this so advantageous Port, which otherwise by these di­visions might have fallen into the hands of their enemies.

But this agreement being made in hast, could not last long, and so there happened some disturbance; which is an ordinary thing, when any one par­ty gets too much interest. The Count complained to the Emperour of the said Town, by which he was accused to have had some intelligences there, so to make himself absolute Lord of it: But these complaints; as well as that which followed afterwards for the Traffick in Spain, were quickly patched together with a weak thred. In the mean time Count Edzard died, and left five sonnes; Enne, Gustave, John, Christopher, and Charles, the Eldest whereof reconciled himself to the Town. Christopher went to serve the Arch-Duke, and was afterwards Governour of Luxenbourgh.

The Count will repaire his authority. In the year 1602. Count Enne propped by some Gentry, (as Cuiphanse, and others) endeavoured to repayre his authority by imposing Taxes, for­cing the small Townes, and nourishing a faction in Embden. And so he rai­sed souldiers, under pretext of going against the Turk; gave his Daughter to his Brother John, who married her by a dispensation from the Pope, and embraced the Roman Catholick Religion; and fortified some villages to block up the River. The States of Holland (moved more by their own in­terest, then by the complaints of the Town) sent to oppose him, drove him out of the Villages (who retyred into Germany) and justified their proceed­ings by suspicions, and informations, which they said they had received from Brussels, that the said Count acted for the Spaniards, and would bring them into the Town,

Now he had remonstrated before both to the Emperour and Empyre, that it would be expedient to exercise an Admiralty upon the River of Enis, so to prejudice the nearest Inhabitants; with reasons strong enough to move that great and dull Body, (if it could be moved) which so many Dy­ets have had so much adoe to awaken.

In sine, Whatsoever is profitable in matter of State, seems lawfull: But what we do our selves, we ought not to condemn in others.

the Peace made 1506. The suspicion daily encreased, and that chiefly because Count John of Ritsbergh was become a Roman Catholick. But at last, by the intercession of the King of England, and the States-Generall, the Peace was made at the Haghe, in the year 1606 as also that of the Christians and Turks, and all jea­lousies which could come from thence, quite take off.

CHAP. XIV

THe differences which have happened amongst Christians upon the di­versity of Religions, the distrusts which have sprung from thence, as the fire from the flint; and the reasons of State (precious covers for manifest wickednesse) have proved the cause of the greatest part of all our present mischiefes, and languishments. Therefore let us seek out the true root of it, and leave passion to such as cannot receive any other impressions, then those by which they are utterly blinded. My purpose is not to dyve into questions of Divinity, but only to search in History after the causes of so many altera­tions, and so much hatred drawn from so holy and innocent a subject.

Pope Julius the second. We will therefore begin with Pope Iulius the second, who died in the year 1513. This Pope more carefull of the Temporall then of the Spiritual; and more studious of propagating the Jurisdictions of the Church, then the kingdom of God; made an Allyance with the Emperour, and the Kings of France and Spain, to the utter ruine of the Venetians. But he quickly chan­ged his Cards, forsook the Allyes, reconciled himself with his enemies, animated Henry the Eighth, King of England against the French; and Ferdinand against the King of Navarre, whom he spoyled of his kingdom, for refusing him passage.He embroiles Europe. He also dissolved the Allyance between the Emperour and the King of France; and called the Swissers into Italy, to drive the French out of the Milan. In fine, having sunk all Europe into inexplicable confusi­ons, and scandalized his Flock, he made place for Leo the 10^th, a man who loved rest, and was lesse a souldier then Iulius, of whom is written this great praise, that he once cast some Keyes into the Tyber, saying, that St. Pauls Sword should have more power, then the Arms of St. Peter. The duty of a good shepherd is to keep his sheep in peace, and feed them; and not scatter them, and send them to the shambles.

Whilest these warres lasted, which ruined the Publick and Human Laws, the Divine ones were also very ill kept. The ignorance of the Prelates, cau­sed superstitions; and their loose and vicious lives, together with their great and vast possessions; the hatred of the people. The learned desired a re­dresse in the Ecclesiastical Policy, as well as Peace required in the Secular.

Divorce, which continues to this day, with as little apparence of Reuni­on, as there is of seeing the Rivers run back to their springs. And it is, that the Pope published a Iubily for the collection of monies to resist the Turk, which was most necessary at that time. But the impudence of a certain Monk called Te [...]zel, exceeded so farre, as to presume to sell the Indulgences or Pardons, for the sinnes committed, and to be committed (I have horrour to re­cite this chea [...]erie, the companion of superstition, ignorance, and avarice) and forthwith to draw soules out of Purgatory. Martin Luther,Martin Luther opposes Tyrzel. Dector of Di­vinity at Witembergh, and Monk of the Order of St. Austin, briskly opposed this Impostor; made a Thesis or General Position, which he dedicated to the Pope himself, to testify the will he had to relye upon his definition. But through excess of indignation, he passed the limits of Christian modesty, and Catholick Truth: Insomuch, as that at length he grew to write against the Popes authority, wherein he was impugned by a Divine called Eckins. See Florimoud of Remond.

He is excom­municated. Now Pope Leo, desirous to quench this spark, excommunicates Luther: but that was to cast oyle into that fire, and put poison to the wound. For Martin raises his Batteries against him, and calls him Antichrist; which the Pope too much slighting, applyed all his thoughts to warre. Those enemies, who are most despised, are very often most hurtfull. But the God of Peace drove him out of this world, to make room for another more worthy, and more v [...]tuous, (though lesse politick) then he: However Policie be a very con­venient Science for such, as govern great States and Empyres.

Pope Adrian, the Preceptor or Tutor to Charles the 5. was born at Ʋ [...]rick, and promised to bring a wholesom Balsom to the diseases of Christendome, For, he had already elevated the hopes of the Good, by abolishing Simony, punishing sins against nature, and not alienating the possessions of the Church: But his too suddain death declared, that God had otherwise dis­posed of him; that his two Predecessors had too much embroyled the Flock, that the sicknesse must have its course, and that the Body was filled with too many bad humours, to be cured by one single purge, or one Blood-let­ting onely.

His doctrine in Saxony. Now Luthers doctrine passed from Saxony into Sweden, King Gustave, and Frederick of Denmark being leagued together, against Christian, who de­serted by his people, was fled; and they also forsook the Pope, as well as their King, and much ranged the authority of the Bishops, of their king­domes. And as Luthers Doctrine grew to be received, so diffidence and ha­tred grew equally up with it; together with a desire also to maintaine it, against all who endeavoured to suppress it. There was besides, another ac­cident, which very much troubled the Church: and it was, that Charles the Emperour, and King Francis the first, had very often entreated the Pope and Cardinals to call a General Councill, for the reformation of abuses, in the Church and Clergy: But this song was little lesse unpleasant, then the op­position of Luther. And so these two Princes laying aside that care, they being too nearly tyed to their own interests, meditated nothing but warre upon each other.

Pope Clement successor to Adrian, seeing the King of France prisoner, made speedily a secret Allyance with his own subjects, and almost all the Princes of Italy, so to put a limit to the power of the Emperour; who in re­venge thereof, abrogated his Authority in Spain; surprised Rome, and took him prisoner; who was very ill treated by the Germans, as being for the most part Lutherans. Now these two Monarchs, being the chief Pillars of Europe, ought to have favoured a Reformation, and hindred a separation. But what? The impiety of the people whets the sword of the Almighty, who comes slowly to vengeance, though his stroakes be heavie; and the [Page 26]justice of his wrath will reduce this wretched world into dust.

In Germany, they who laboured to revive the Gospel, fell to oddes prin­cipally about the Sacrament of the last Supper. It is easier to pull down an old Building, then to set up a new one. Erasmus of Rotterdam, (that great Wit) flourished at this time, and contented himself only by scoffing the Monks, without medling with the party of the Reformers: For he well knew, that the abuses came from men, and manners, and not from the [...] Doctrine, heretofore taught by the Church.

The horrible Rebellion which arose about this time, did not a little de­form Doctor Luthers new-born Doctrine. For the Peasants thinking all things lawfull to them for the liberty (so called they this new Reformation) of the Gospel, took arms, and assayled the Church-men, Cloisters and Gentry. Their number was growne to be a hundred thousand men, and their chief leader a Minister, called Muntzer. The holy Scripture teaches us to obey our Magistrates, and not to exterminate, and cast them out. But am­bition dwells both in Cabans, in Churches, and even under ragged Cloakes.

They are defea­ted They were routed in three distinct Battails; the first, by the Lord True­ses; the second, by Philip Landgrave of Hassia; and the last by Anthony Duke of Lorrain, who cut them off when they were endeavouring to enter France, where they hoped to play Rex, by meanes of the Confusion which they ima­gined they should find there by the Kings captivity, who was carried into Spain.

Charles en­deavours to humble the Protestants. Now the greatness of the Emperour Charles being reconciled to the Pope, and counselled by him to reduce the Protestants (for so were the Princes and States termed, who had received Luthers Doctrine) into the lap of the Church, either by threats, or force; gave no small apprehension to the German Princes: And he being glad of any subject, to establish his power in Germa­ny, was not willing to lose this fair occasion. So the Armies marched into the Field; and Francis the first, after him his sonne Henry were requested to give relief for the maintaining (as they styled it) of the German liberty, now like to be lost under the Spanish Domination: which was granted by the French fo [...] State-interest, though they were enemies to the Religion. But neither Arms, nor Victories, nor Disputes, nor the Majesty it self of the Em­perour; was able to deracinate or root out this Doctine; and so in fine, it was permitted by his Authority at the Diet of Ausbourgh.

Now, it was not Luther alone, who rose against the Popes authority: For a certain Revolted Monk called Menno, began also to preach a Doctrine different enough from his; and his Adherents were called Anabaptists. Besides, that learned man Iohn Calvin, carried on that Reformation much farther then Luther, as well in France, as elsewhere, and fixed his Chayre at Geneva. They agreed well about combating the Pope, and some other points; but yet since they remained not in perfect unity of Doctrine: In so much, as that this party, and that of Luther, are very little better friends amongst themselves, then either of them is with the Roman Catholicks, as we shall see in the sequel of these Tragedies.

CHAP. XV

NOw we have seen the Lutherans established in Germany, let us see what the Anabaptists do at Munster, an Episcopall Town in Westphalia, which was to be the Head of a Chimerical Kingdom, and serve for a preci­ous testimony of the wrath of that great God, which for a time suffers his Word to be abused, and the wicked to cover their pernicious Designes un­der the Cloak of Religion, and the mask of Hypocrisie. Oh Lord! Thou dost hour [...]ly admonish us by so many prodigies, and monstrous accidents: but our eyes are shut, our eares stopt, and our hearts hardened.

John de Lei­de King of Munster. John of Leiden by trade a Taylor, and his adherents, seized upon the aforesaid Town, and he was made King thereof, and fought long against the Bishop; by whom they were at length subdued, and chastised according to the measure of their crimes. The extremity of their rigour was against the Church men, a clear argument of the indignation of God against them, because they had deviated from their duty, and were lulled asleep in igno­rance, idlenesse, and pleasures. They likewise desclaimed the Authoriry of the Pope, and brake down the Images, without sparing the very Pictures of the Church-windowes. A zeal too violent to proceed from the Holy Ghost, and of little conformity with that of the Primitive Christians. These insolencies being once repressed at Amsterdam, returned there no more. The Anabaptists which are now in the united Provinces, and the Confines thereof, disown the pro­ceedings of the former, and count them in the number of Hereticks.

The Reformed Religion in France. Now the Doctrine of Martin Luther passed into France, under the reign of Francis the first; though yet it could not take fast root enough there; as well because of the persecutions, and the Kings aversion from it, as also for that it was too far distant from the Author, and Teacher thereof. And so it quick­ly grew to be transformed into that of John Calvin, and his Disciple Theodore Bez [...], and so much encreased in few yeares throughout the greatest part of the Country, during the troubles caused by Envies of State, and the League; that the Kings, after many bloody Wars, were constrained by various Edicts or Proclamations, to grant them free exercise of their Religion through all the Kingdom. King Francis was a great persecutor of the said Doctrine;Obtains free exercise. and made open protestation, that he would not spare even his own Arm, if it were infected with Heresie. And yet the [...]lousie which he had con­ceived against the prosperity of Charles the Empe [...]our, moved him neverthe­lesse to succour the Protestants.

King Henry succeeded in his Fathers hatred to them, but being sent to his grave by the thrust of a Lance, they began to respire; saw the end of their persecutions, lost the smell of the Fagot, and propped by some Princes of the Blood, rendred themselves at length no less considerable in France, then the Protestants are in Germany.

The Protestant Church in England. Let us now make a step into England, and see how the Protestant Church hath sowen her first seed, supplanted the ancient Doctrine, and established her self as Mistress there. King Henry the eighth, for writing a Book against Luther in defence of the Roman Church, and her seven Sacraments, was honoured by the Pope with the Title of Defender of the Faith, His prime [Page 28]Minister, was that great Cardinal Wolsey, who ruled all. So that it is not only from this day that Cardinals have introduced them selves into States, to have the total administration of them. This man being eminently ambitious, hoped to come to be Pope by the recommendation of the Emperour:The story of C [...] [...]ina [...] Wol­l [...]y. But seeing himselt frustrated of his expectation, he turned his hate upon him; whispered the King in the ear, that his marriage with Katharine of Spain, (Aunt to the said Emperour) was incestuous, because she had formerly been married to his Brother. O! How great is the wickednesse of such as have for saken God to serve their ambition and revenge? This Prelate, who ought to have framed the re­formation of abuses, and opposed Heresies (since himself held for such all the Doctrines which checked the Pope) was not content with so much ho­nour and wealth as he enjoyed, without seeing the Emperour thrown down, and buried under the very ruins of that Church, the Religion whereof he professed with so great Majesty, and under the Purple of so great luster. The King intangled in love with a young Lady newly come from the Court of France, and disgusted with the Embracements of that most ve [...] ­ous Princess his Wife; was glad of this scruple, and sollicited the Pope to grant him a Divorcement upon the aforementioned reason. But the Pope temporizes, and sends in sine his Legat to examin the matter. The King and the Legat sir; the Queen being summoned, appears; and in presence of the chief of the Kingdom, makes a Speech in Latin, to the King, which is able to move a very rock to compassion.

How is it possible Sir (sayes she) that after having lived almost twenty yeares together in great concord, and having had so many children as we have had, it should now come into your thought to repudiate me? Your Brother Arthur fell sick the ve­ry first day of our marriage, and some dayes after dyed. I take the great God and your conscience to witness, that you found me a Virgin. And if you are resolved to separate me from your Bed, expect at least so long, as till I may have advertised my Nephew Charles thereof, to the end that I may know how to behave my self in this affliction; since I can hope for no support in the equity of my cause here, where you are Absolute King. If I have offended God since I have been your wife, it has been in being a little too curious to please you, Ah Vertue! This is not the first time that thy adversary endeavours to suppress thee. Thy luster is too bright, not to d [...]le the eyes of the wicked.

This poor Princesse in this tribulation had this imperfection, that in re­gard Nature had been sparing to her of her rich gifts of beauty, she had had recourse to innocent Art, thereby to draw her Husband from the levities to which he was too much inclined, as well by his own naturall Passion, as by the attractive Charms of his fair subjects. Her Speech being ended, (which produced but faint pitty in the soul of the King, and some of the Auditory) she retired her self, together with her Daughter into a private House, where the spake thus to this ambitious Cardinal, who came to her in behalf of the King, to intreat her to yeeld to his will. It is thou (said she) O wicked and dis­loyal Minister, who returnest [...]s this recompence: To my Nephew, for not advancing thee to the Holy Chayre; and to me, for not being able to suffer thy impudicity and na [...]ght [...]esse.

The King divorced himself from the Church of Rome, because the Pope would not condescend to his demand; and from his Wife, (by whom he had alwayes been so respectfully loved) to conjoyn in publick marriage with Anne of Bolein. The King leaves his Wife an I the Church of Rome. The Cardinal died in the year 1530, being not long before deprived of all his employments, and fallen from the favour of his Prince, which he had preferred before that of his God, as he restified by these words, full of christian and holy repentance, which issued our of his dying mouth, Ah! I would to God (said he) I had taken so much pains to serve my Creatour, as I have done to serve my Prince!

He put into the Letanies, From the tyranny of the Pope, good Lord deliver us; whose authority was abrogated thorowout the whole kingdome, and the King by Act of Parliament declared, Head of the Church of England.

He seized upon the possessions of the Church, by the advice of Cromwell, and some others, who all ended their dayes unhappily.Takes away the possessions of the Clergy. He also bestowed part thereof upon the nobility, for fear of commotion. He hanged such as refused to subscribe, that he was Head of the Church, as aforesaid; and condemned the protestants to the fire. In fine, after having crushed the Church, and lived like a tyrant, he died miserable, and little regretted by his people. Sir Thomas More, that great Heroe, fell under the rigour of his command, and so did an infinite number of other noble persons.

Luther seeing him in ill tearms with the Pope, and encouraged by the King of Denmark, very humbly beseeched him,Luther writes to the King, and receives an affront. by a letter which he wrote to him, to embrace the doctrine of the Gospel: but he received such an answer as he little expected, namely, that he should forsake his apostacie, and his wife, and return to his Monastery.

Now the Church of Rome seeing her head disclaimed, and his authority banished out of England, felt her self much shaken, as well by Peter Martyr, as orther Protestant ministers: in such sort as that Edward, Edward esta­blishes the Pro­testant Reli­gion. son to the said Henry, having taken the reines of the English Monarchie, had no great trouble to throw her quite our, and fixe the Protestant. But he dying very young, and Queen Mary succeeding him, she had an intention to pluck up this tender plant, and re-establisheth the old doctrin, which yet could not re­cover its full strength before it was exterminated again, Young trees by being re-planted get vigour, but old ones wither and dye.

CHAP. XVI

QUeen Elizabeth (who, during the life of her sister Mary, feigned her self a Roman Catholike, and was like to lose her life, by giving some suspi­cions of her being a Protestant) being raised to the royall Throne, forthwith unmasqued her self, and began to treat of the meanes how to annull the one, and revoke the other; which was easie to be accomplished. For the igno­rance of the Priests was great; the desire of their possessions greater; and the curiosity to check a Religion full of ceremonies, which few could solid­ly defend, greatest of all. It was represented to the People both here and elsewhere, that the doctrine was falsified, and in no wise congruous with that of the four Primitive ages: that Lay men were forbidden to read the holy Scriptures, that so they might remaine in darknesse, and not see the light of evangelicall truth, &c.

The Queen assembled a Parliament, which acted to abolish what Queen Mary had done, by the authority of the Pope, and against the Protestants: The Bishops and some secular men also opposed it. A specious conference was offered, in which there was forced upon them a Judge who was an ene­my to their Cause. They complained of this proceeding, and said, that they were very hardly dealt with, and that they had been advertised of the [Page 30] Theses, or Argument but two days before, In fine, not being able to agree about the form of the Dispute, the Protestants, before the combat, cried victory; and the other, When shall we be assured of our Faith, if there be always leave to dout, and dispute? Some of them were so much moved, that they would have excom­municated the Queen: But others being better advised, alledged, that the disposal thereof must be left to the Pope. See Cambden.

Reformation in England by degrees. The Queen proceeds to a change by degrees, She prohibits to speak ill of the Sacrament of the Altar, and suffers the Communion to be given under both kindes. A little while after, both Masse and Pictures were banished out of the Churches, and then the Oath of superiority was tendered to the Bi­shops and other Roman Catholicks, and in case of refusal, they were dis­missed from their charge. All this passed without any tumult, and hitherto the Reformation was carried on very conform with the Confession of Ausbourgh.

And in Scot­land under the Bastard Murrey who weildes the Scepter. About the end of the year 15 [...]8 the Protestant Religion began also to spring up in Scotland, and the Authors of it, styled themselves the Brethren of the Congregation. They carped at the Kingly Authority, as much as they did at the lives of the Priests, and the abuses of the Church. They refu [...]ed to pay their duty to the Queen-Mother-Regent, a most wise and modest wo­man. The Head and Ringleader, was James Priour of Sr. Andrews (since called Earl of Murrey) natural Brother to the Queen, who gave very great suspicions of his intending, by favouring these changes, to make himself Ma­ster of the Scepter of Scotland.

They wanted no pretext to cloak their Design. For James protested, that he sought nothing but the glory of God, and the liberty of the kingdome, oppressed by the French, and the Queen-Regent, who was daughter to the Duke of Guise. Hammelton, and divers other Gentlemen raised by the Pos­sessions of the Church, ranged themselves in their Party. Complaints against Religion are ordinarily accompanied by those of the violation of Priviledges.

They draw up theirs, (For there will never be wanting such as seek their ad­vancement in the change of the State) and implore the assistance of the Queen; who alwayes attentive to her profit, and fearing the power of France, under­takes the defence of the said Congregation; promises to expell them out of Scotland, and by consequence the Roman Faith with them. Whil [...]st this was in agitation, the Queen-Regent died, and her Daughter Mary, Widow to Francis the second, departed from France towards Scotland. Her Brother aforesaid (who was a meer Bastard both in blood and heart) counselled Queen Elizabeth to surprize her at Sea, so to secure both her person and Reli­gion. But she being arrived at Ede [...]bourgh, made no change at all, but ex­pressed great clemency towards her subjects, thereby to give the lye to those false reports, which those Rebels had dispersed of her, and to convince them also of cruelty and treachery.

But the Queen of England stopped not there: For she made a Law, by which all were declared guilty of High Treason, who refused to make Oath that she had full power, and absolute authority in all spiritual things, and over Ecclesiastical persons. O good God! How little comparison is there between those times, and these? Was not this to force mens consciences? The Hugenots of this present Age would be ashamed to accept such a Law as was received with so much alacrity, by these first Reformers. The Scots during these Interludes, cast the Archbishop in prison, for saying Masse, and astronted another Priest for the same subject, even within the Court, and before the very face of the desolate Queen; who neverthelesse with teares in her eyes, took them out of the hands of their enemies: though yet all her clemency mingled with so many sweet charms as accompanied her Ma­jesty, was never able to soften the hearts of these mutiners; who never left, till [Page 31]she had her Head cut off from her shoulders, as we shall hereafter shew, together with a part of those misfortunes which have since happened to her posterity.

Now Queen Elizabeth, who thought not her authority sure, unless she put her helping hand to the supplantation of the Roman Catholick Religion in Scotland, as well as in England; strengthened so well the party of the Con­gregation, that the Queen, no longer able to endure so many indignities, nor to disintangle her selt from the snares, which the perfidious Crue had laid for her, was fain at length to betake her self to flight. She also did for the Hugenots in France, that which hath been so much condemned in the King of Spain. For she took them into her protection, assisted them with men and money; and shewed her self every whit as zealous for the exaltation of her Religion, as the Catholick King did for his. So that she rendred her self as odious at Rome, and to the Roman Catholicks, as he did in the Low-coun­tries, amongst the Calvinists and Lutherans.

The Reforma­tion came into the Low-coun­tries. The Confession of Ausbourgh entered on the one side into the Low-coun­tries, and the Reformed Religion from Geneva, from the Palatinate, and from England on the other, the one by the communication of German soul-diers and the other by that of the Nobility which had travelled, the Mini­sters who came from France, and the Merchants who daily arrived at the Islands opposite to it. It slipped in at first very secretly, found favour in the Houses of some great persons, and affection in the hearts of some people. But being at length discovered, and the Inquisition of Spain intervening, it grew to be much thwarted. But Fire and Sword cannot extinguish a do­ctrine: nay rather, the patience of such as suffer Racks and Torments, be­gets compassion to them, and hatred to their persecutors. In fine, both par­ties arm, and ambition being the one half of the game, the Spaniards regain­ed ten of the Provinces, by the sword: the others, who vaunted themselves to have had recourse to these extremities, by the violence and cruelty of the Spa­niards, for their priviledges & liberty of conscience; embraced through all the Towns and Villages the Reformed Religion, as it is taught at Geneva, in some Cantons of Switzerland, in the lower Palatinate, and in the Distinct of Has­s [...]. The Roman Religion was sent packing, contrary to the first Agrce­ment: and even they, who either out of compassion, fair promises, or hate of the Inquisition, had born arms for them, were deprived of the free exer­cise thereof. The generall complaints of all such, as fought against the Church of Rome, were grounded chiefly upon these points.

Were grounded upon these points. First, They disclaimed the too great Authority of the Pope, that he m [...]dled too much in Secular Affaires; They blamed the disorders of the Court of Rome; Pray­ers made in an unknown language; and maintained, that every one was to be per­mitted to read the Bible: They cried out against Purgatory, Masse, Invocation of Saints, the superstition of good Works, and the like.

These were demands strong enough to amaze and astonish them, who were not versed at all in the Scriptures, and understood not even their own Belief, but by rote.

The order of the Iesuits begins in the rise of the Reformation. During these emborrasments, sprang up the order of the Jesuits, who have made it their businesse ever since to defend the Pope, and the Rom. Religion; to repai [...]e the loss of Erudition and Sciences, and awaken the sluggish Monks, and encounter in fine these new Champions; But they have met with great repugnance and hatred, as well from the adverse party, as amongst the Ro­man Catholicks themselves; though not peradventure with so much reason from these latter. They are made pass for murtherers of Kings, for having a Doctrine, discrepant from that of the Catholick Church; and to persecute the Monarchy of the whole Universe, for the House of Spain. Yet they leave not for all this to hold up their heads, and despise the calumnies and re­proaches [Page 32]of their Adversaries. And indeed, their Discipline in the Schools is both laudable and profitable: In their Disputes, they are Aristotles, and in their Pulpits Cicero's. In fine, without them (I speak out of the mouth of Reformats) the Roman Church would be quickly beaten down: And so it is to be seen amongst them, painted, under the form of a stooping Tower, propped by the shoulders of the Jesuits, for fear lest it fall. The Authour and Founder of their Order was a Spaniard, and it was very necessary to speak a word of them by the by, because they are made pass for Incendiaries, Plot­ters of all Sedition, and Treasons, of many perfidies, and wickednesses. Yet God howsoever hath served himself of them, for the conversion of the Indies, and China; for the restauration of learning, and for the illumination and illu­stration of Sciences, wherein they are looked upon with admiration.

CHAP. XVII

IT was expedient for me to make mention in this Treatise of the Religi­ons, which existed in the precedent Age, and of the Changes they caused; the fatal effects whereof are resented even in this of ours. We have also ad­ded thereto the ambition of many, who endeavoured to throw all things topsy-turvy, thereby to ascend to the greatnes which they proposed to them­selves, and which it was most facil to acquire by these Religions Pretexts.

O God! How are the hearts of poor mortals overwhelmed in darkness, under the ap­parence of Religion? And how many are there in the world, who whilest they are plot­ting mischief, hide themselves under the maske of devotion?

Religion indeed was, wont to reign in the soules of many, as Mistresse of the State, and was a just cause of taking arms; but at present, she is little bet­ter then the servant thereof. True it is, that some years since, she hath done wonders both in Germany and France: But the conclusion hath manifested, that this pretext hath served for the most part,Religion serves for a pretext. but for interest of State, and to cover the martial humour of Princes; who incited by the insatiable hunger of honour, for the ingrandisement of their power, have very craftily made use of the cloak of conscience.

This therefore is that, which causes jeaulousie, distrust, aversion, and ha­tred, and chiesly amongst the people,Causes hatred, and divides humours. who cannot penetrate into the ambi­tion of Potentates. This I say it is, which causes violent suspicions, and di­vides humours in the same nation, in the same Parentage; yea, and in the very self-same Family too. For if it have had force enough to arm particular persons a gainst their own Parents, no marvail if it make all that, which de­pends upon humane strength and science, contribute to the suppression of any Party, of a different opinion; and if Princes have occasion to make use of it, to cover their irregular appetites. But this hatred, which proceeds from the diversity of opinions, is repugnant to the word of God, which com­mands us to pray for our Brethren, and not to persecute and vex them. We must let the tares grow till the time of Harvest, for fear of plucking up the good corn with them. Now let us briefly turn back, to seek out the motives, which seem to have caused these diversities, which have proved so dam­mageable and pernicious to christian charity; as fore-runners to the wrath of God, and most undoubted marks of the latter day.

In the beginning of the fifteenth Age, there were in the whole uniuers [...] but two christian Churches; namely the L [...]me, then under the authority of [Page 33]the Pope, and the Greek, under that of certain Patriarcks. The difference (unworthy of such a division) was, and even yet is, about ambition and pre­ference, contrary to the advertisements of our common Master; and because the Greek maintained that the Holy Ghost proceeds but only from the Fa­ther. For all the rest is most easie to be rejoyned, and reconciled. Now the Latine, being received throughout all Europe, The Latine Church under the Pope, and Grek under Patriarchs. there have happened from time to time very many complaints against abuses, superstitions, and the ill discipline of the Priests; yea, and against the Popes themselves, who too much busied with the warres, and intrigues of the world, have forgotten that command, which sayes, Feed my Sheep: Feed my Flock: whereof they are yet apt enough to serve themselves against the checks of their ene­mies. There was no memory left of the Waldenses and Albingenses; The Waldenses. nor yet of the dangers, into which the Bohemians had brought all Germany, by the doctrine of Witcliffe, and the so prodigiously victorious Arms of Zisca. Witcliffe. For instead of opening our eyes and eares to the admonitions of Iohn Hus, we reduced him into ashes. Charles the 8. King of France declared his dis­contentment, and so did some other Kings his Predecessors. But it was held for a crime sufficient to convince all men of Heresie, who spake of a Refor­mation by a General Councell. So that superstition being swolne big, and the world kept in most excessive ignorance, (as a very great and Orthodox person writes) for the space of three hundred yeares by the Franciscans and the Dominicans; as also by the carelesnesse of the Bishops, there started up a German Doctor,Luther and Calvin. (whom we have so often mentioned) and a French one likewise, who first preached against those said superstitions; and then ven­tured to set up their Standards against the Church her self, with so universal applause, that in a few years even whole kingdomes grew to separate them­selves from the communion of that Body, which acknowledged the Pope for the Supreme Vicar of Iesus Christ.

The Iesuits op­pose. Now at the same time (as we have formerly shewed) sprang the Iesuits, and armed themselves to quell these valiant souldiers, who skipped out of their holes so openly to attack a power, which all the States of Christendom held in so much veneration.

They stopped the course of this Torrent, which neither Fire, Persecuti­ous, nor strict Prohibitions were able to effect; and they have united to the Body, a good part of those people which had untyed themselves from it. It is not by fire, but by force of Doctrine; and not by words, but by ex­emplary life, that a remedy must be put to all these disorders, which happens amongst Christians. Now this Society could not but meet with meet with envy enough amongst the Clergy, which felt it self so reprehended and pricked by such new men. For Admonitions and in structions, how necessary and profitable soever they be, leave not to imprint some harshnesse upon the soul of the receivers. An exact Captain is displeasing to lazy souldiers.

Violent reme­dies served for nothing. In fine, recourse was had to such violent remedies, as so sharpened and stung the parts affected, that there will never be meanes to introduce a reconciliation; unless perhaps it fall out to be by ways full of suavity, and charity. For interest took this powerful occasion so fast by his fore-lock, and these Divisions are grown so firmly rooted, that it is probable, they will not finish but with the world. And this is the principall source of the evils, which we have seen, and yet daily see happen; to the grief of all good men in this last Age. And thus we have shewed about what, when, for what reasons, and by whom began these Reformations: Nor must we wonder at the monstrous effects, since they could not be more noble, then their Causes. If we would re­flect often upon it, we should find Ministers and instruments enough there­of. The holy Scripture sayes, that there must be scandals, but cursed be they, who shall give them.

CHAP. I

THE Peace of Vervin filled with joy, not only the subjects of the Kings, but also all such as acknow­ledged the See of Rome. The Protestants invited to the said Peace by Henry the Great, shut their eares to the Propositions, and studied only how to make most streight Allyances for their preservation. Where Diffidence gets the mastery, Reason is not under­stood, unlesse it be ushered in by strong and irrefutable as­surance. It was impossible for the Arch-Duke Al­bert, to bring the States to a very advantageous Peace (as the Ministers said) for them, since the arguments of King Henry could obtain nothing from them. For his offers were as stints, out of which they drew sire to kindle the warre, with so much the greater animosity. They sent their Embassadours into England, Elizabeth and the states re­fuse Peace. where they sound the Queen most disposed to receive theirs; so that it was most facil to draw her to their opinion.

In the mean while, the Arch-Duke receives a Procuration from the In­fanta, his future Spouse, in vertue whereof he was generally and solemnly re­ceived; and nominatively at Antwerp, where the oath of sidelity was payd him by the Deputies of the obedient Provinces.

Albert goes in­to Spain. 1598. And so he went into Spain; but before his departure, he signified to the confederated States, that he went to marry the Infanta, and that he had the Low-conntries for Portion with her, and was already acknowledged Lord thereof: Therefore he conjured them to associate themselves to the other Provinces, in respect that the King had divided them from his other De­maines; and that thus all distrusts being taken away, he withed nothing more, then to see that Body entire, and in peace under his Government: But all in vain. For Religion and liberty were too charming subjects to be aban­doned; and they who are growne to be Masters, abhorre to fall back into for­vitude.

He began his journey in the moneth of September, in the yeer 1598, lea­ving Cardinal Andrew his cosin, for his Licutenant, and sent his army to­wards the Rheyn, which, at his return he found full of confusion and revolt, for want of pay. He was received in all places where he passed (together with the Princess Margaret of Austria, spouse of Philip the third, whom he conducted in his company) with honours due to the greatnes of their quality. He stayed not in Spain; but as soon as he had married the Princesse Clara Eugenia, The King of France repolish­eth his King­dome. he brought her into the Low Countries, and they made their entry into Brus­sels in the moneth of September, 1599.

He brings the Infanta, 1599. King Henry of France, having given his subjects a peace, made it all his care to repolish his kingdom, much depraved by the prolixity of the civil warrs, to revive the laws strucken dumb, by the licentiousness of the souldiers, to place good order every where; and in fine, to establish two Religions in very good union, aswel for his own service, as for the repose of his people: Where­as King Philip, on the other side, in his, would have but one. But some per­sons of very great experience, have conceived, that if he had embraced the same Maxime, he might have preserved the seventeen Provinces, though others have beleeved, that he would rather have lost them all, as being too far distant from them, and consequently unable to accommodate himself to all occurrences, which required a diversity of temperaments.

But this Prince (namely Henry) had been educated in the reformed Religi­on, and so knew the humours, & the forces of that party not to be contem­ptible. He was Son to Anthony of Bourbon, who was slain at the siege of Roüen. The Prince of Conde being slain in the battell of Jarnac, and the Admiral remaining Generall of the Hughenot army, he advised them to nominate for their Generall Henry of Bourbon, a young Lord, who had ever defended their party; and so he being turned Catholick, and upon that made King of France, had alwayes a particular care to uphold them, as a people, from which he had received great services. But there was very great danger of taking from them that, which had been promised them by so many Procla­mations or Edicts, nor did they indeed forbear to cry up their services, and bragg, that it was they onely who put the Crown upon his head.

Henry the 3. last King of the race of Valois Now the Royall race of the Ʋalois being extinguished by the death of Henry the third, son to Henry the second, he succeeded to the Crown, though with much dispute, and repugnancie: but his justice was accompanied by his valour, and so by rejecting that, which was most prejudiciall to him (to wit, the reformed Religion) he quieted all his subjects, and reduced them to their duty.

CHAP. II

Henry gives his sister to the Marquis du Pont THe King not content with giving the Hughenots all they had ever desi­red, intended besides, to obliege the house of Lorraine, by allying the Princes thereof with his own. And so he matched his sister to the Marquis du Pont, who retained the exercise of the reformed Religion; lived in most perfect amity with her husband, and deceased without issue.

The Kings marriage being declared null, and Madame Gabriell, by whom he had many children, (the eldest whereof is the Duke of Vandosme) ending [Page 36]her dayes by suddain death,Marries Mary of Medicis. he married Mary Medicis, sister to the grand Duke of Florence, who arrived in France in the moneth of December, being the last of the precedent age.

Upon the delay of the Duke of Savoy, to restore him the Marquisat of Salu­ces, he prepared himself for warre: And the Duke to divert the storm, came to him at Lyons, with store of presents, and promised to render him the said Marquisat,Makes war up­on the Duke of Savoy. or else the County of Bresses, within the term of six moneths: But the effect thereof not following, the King quickly made himself master of all Savoy. There is no amusing or retarding a potent creditor, who hath both will and meanes to make himself payd. In fine, by the mediation of the Pope, a peace was made, whereby the Duke remained in possession of the Marqui­sat, and the King of the aforesaid Country of Bresses. Through this peace Italy was delivered from a great oppression, and so the Troops of the Conde de Fuentes marched out of the Duchy of Milan towards Flanders.

During the civil wars, a little before the terrible execution at Blois, the afore­said Duke easily recovered the said Marquisat, by vertue, (as it was believed) of Pistolls. Gold. He caused money to be coined, with a Centaur, treading under his feet a Gawlish Hercules, with this Motto, Opportunè. But Henry after his Con­quest, and the accomplishment of his Pretensions, stamped another sort, representing a Gawlish Hercules, treading upon a Centaur, with this, Opportu­nius. We must never let our hearts be too much puffed up with prosperity, but consi­der that the conquered, grow often to be Conquerours.

We will not leave Savoy, till we shall first have spoken of the enterprize Which the Duke had upon the City of Geneva. The City of Geneva. She is situated upon the Rhine, neer a great Lake, and was before that reformation, the Seat of a Bishop. She changed her Religion in the yeer 1535, since when, no Romane Catho­lick (as it is published) is tollerated there above three dayes.

Now Charles Emanuel, the aforesaid Duke, attempred to make himself Lord of her by surprize. He secretly listed twelve hundred men, under the command of Monsieur d' Aubigny, who by meanes of great store of ladders, and other instruments, got to the number of two hundered into the Town, whilest the Duke was following with some Regiments of recruit. But being discovered, and the Citizens running to their armes, they were strucken with terrour, and returned the same way they came, without having been able to seize upon so much as one of the Gates, to let in the forces, Thus this great designe, so long premeditated, so secretly carried, so well begun, and al­most compleatly executed, at last failed: But whether through the valour of the townsmen, or the cowardlinesse of the Savoyers, I know not: they were so nettled by this fright, that Father Alexander, a Scottish Jesuite, with all his remonstrances and exhortations, could never infuse any courage into their hearts. But this hot Camisado or assault, made them of Geneva stand upon their guard, for their own preservation; and to this effect, they raised some souldiers, and implored the assistance of the King, who declared them com­prized within the Peace of Vervin, and gave them a pension: since which time they have kept themselves in peace.

The Princes of the aforesaid family affirm, that the said City is seated within the district of Savoy, and consequently belongs to them. But that which cannot be gotten by force, will not be acquired by allegation of right.

CHAP. III. The Jubile. Biron executed. The battell of Flanders. La Bourlotte killed. Rinberg taken.

The Iubile. THe first yeer of this age, Pope Clement celebrated a Jubile at Rome, whe­ther there flocked an infinite number of people from all parts, some out of curiosity, and to see Italy, and others out of devotion, and to gaine the Indulgences.

But let us now return towards the Low Countries, in regard that France grew to be even steeped in delights (the fruits of peace) and no body in moti­on, but Mareschal de Biron, Biron beheaded who attainted and convicted of the crime of high Treason, for having kept correspondency with a forraigne Prince, was beheaded in the Court of the Bastill. Indeed, that infinity of brave actions, which had crowned his head with lawrell, ought (methinks) to have saved him from this stroake. But what? Fortune had elevated him very high, so to tumble him down headlong into this precipice.

The Archduke Albert, seing it was but labour lost to solicite the States of Holland to a reconciliation, and that all the exploits of the Admiral did more sharpen the bordering provinces, then fright the confederates, and that the enterprize upon Bommel proved as fruitlesse as that of La Bourlotte, upon some places thereabouts, yea, and that one part of his forces mutinied, and had taken up their quarter apart, under the conduct of one Eelcto, The mutiny of the Spaniards. he began to lay about him, to find money to content them, and reduce his Militia to a good discipline: but he could never be brought to pardon them, who sold the Fort of St. Andrew.

The States upon the other side, and Prince Maurice, having shut up their Common wealth, by the taking of such places as gave them enterance to the enemy, and by consequence deprived him of all meanes of drawing con­tribution out of the said Provinces, resolved to keep one foot in Flanders (the most fertile Province of all) thereby the more to incommodate the Arch­duke, who hearing that the Prince was entered with a puissant army neer Newport, made his troops march with all speed, cut off seven or eight hun­dred Scots, who kept the Bridge, and being prowd upon this happy encoun­ter, advanced to affront his enemies, without granting his souldiers, who were tired with their long march, so much leisure as to breath. But Maurice, having drawn back his fleet into the main, thereby to hinder his souldiers from flight, and obleige them rather to die honourably,The Battell of Flanders. then to seek a shamefull retreat; made a generous resistance, and won a glorious victory. The Mutiners gave a remarkable account of themselves,Gotten by Mau­rice, and the first of this Age. and almost all lost their lives in the dispute. The Admirall was taken prisoner, and many Of­ficers of note. And this was the first battell of this age, which proved fa­vourable to the Hollanders, who conferred all imaginable honours upon their victorious Prince, by shouts of joy, Bonefires, &c.

The Archduke, having tasted the bitter fruits of bad counsell, forthwith reinforced his army, and sent troops into all the forts about Ostend, in such sort as that Maurice, finding no gap of advantage, imbarqued his foot, and repassed into Holland.

La Bourlotte killed. Collonell La Bourlotte, going to defend Fort Issabell, was killed there by musquet shot, and his death much regretted by the Archduke, he having gi­ven great characters of himself, in divers actions and occasions of his service, as the taken of many towns, and fighting of many battels.His life. He was a Gentle­man born in Lorraine, ascended to very high military charges, by his huge [Page 38]courage, esteemed one of the greatest Captains of his time. Henry the fourth endeavoured to disingage him from the service of the Arch-Duke, in case there happened a good agreement: but he being too passionate for the ser­vice of the House of Austria, would not hearken to it at all.

Now the warre was continued by enterprises, which for the most part issued to the dammage of the undertakers; and almost ever, of the Treaties. The greatest incoveniences were by Sea, where the Dunkerkers, who were snapt, were hanged without mercy; who likewise often repayed the same coyn to the Herring-Fishers, and others.

The Zelanders continually complained of the mischiefs they received from Spinola's Gallies at the Sluce, which indeed were neither small nor insen­sible. But this thorn was quickly taken out of their sides, and the said Town taken by famine, whilest the Spaniards were engaged at the siege of Ostend.

Rhinl e [...]gh ta­ken by agreen [...]nent. Rinbergh was besieged by Prince Maurice 1601. and well defended by the Garrison, which was strong: But the relief coming too late, and sind­ing the Hollanders well intrenched, durst not venter; and so the Governour D'Avila was constrained to yeeld up the place (not without having per­formed the action of a valiant Captain) upon honourable conditions, about the beginning of August the same year: And Meurs likewise followed the victorious Chariot of Prince Maurice.

CHAP. IV

ALbert, importuned by the States of Flanders, to free them from their ill neighbours, and those Birds of prey at Ostend, in regard that the Forts thereof could not stop their occasions, nor hinder them from fixing their cluches in the flat Country; suffered himself to be induced to that high and most difficult enterprise: partly to draw Maurice from Rinbergh, and ani­mated also, partly by the vast summe of monies, which the said States under­took to furnish, at different terms for this work. For their interest urged them to unnestle those enemies; and it belonged only to the Eagle to make so high a flight. But a place, which hath alwayes one Gate open, and where so many neighbours pretend an interest, is not so soon gotten.

The said Town was ever very carefully conserved and kept, as well by the Queen of England, as by the confederated States; so to draw great contribu­tions from it. It was before the troubles, but a very small paltry place, a Retreat for Fishers; but very well known since by the most famous and me­morable siege that ever was.

The siege of Ostend begun thes. of July 1601. It was invested, as much as possibly it could be, in the year 1601 upon the 5. of July; and first revictualled afterwards by an English Knight, called Veer, and above three thousand fresh souldiers of his country, sent by the Queen. In the month of September, Admiral de Varniont, came with a hundred and seventy Sayl of Ships, loaden with all kinds of Munition, both for wat and mouth, for the winter; so that all was better cheap there, then even in Holland it self. This made the Prince resolve about All-hallown-tide, to go and attack Bois­le-Due: And the Arch-Duke well knowing the importance of the place, sent an Armythither, and put some colours into the Town. But the cold­ness [Page 39]of the weather proved the strongest enemy, and forced him to pack up his Baggage, and march another way.

In the monoth of September aforesaid, the Queen of Spain was delivered of a Daughter, and the Queen of France of aThe title of the eldest son of the Crown. Dolphin; who by a happy de­stiny were afterwards joyned together in marriage, as we shall shew in fit place.

Prince Maurice, finding his enterprise upon Boisleduc crossed, and that the Spaniards continued their siege, raised more souldiers the year following, and towards the end of Iune, with a terrible train, he marched down into Brabant. The Arch-Duke, informed of his great preparation, enabled by some money from Spain, and the reasons for the continuation of the siege, in which the Honour of the House of Austria was engaged, and all difficulties well ballanced by that most cautelous and advised nation, resolved for his part, to make a great defence. It is in trouble, that vertue shines with most luster. He sent the Admirall into Brabant to stop the progresse of the Princes, who having some Italian Regiments with him, intrenched himself near Tirle­mont, a Town grown famous since by her deplorable misfortune, and buried in her own ashes.

The Hollanders, not being able to draw the Spaniards, (who were yet mindful of their losse received before Newport) to a generall decision, diver­ted their course, and incamped themselves before Grave; which Town be­ing well fortified, was two moneths after surrendred upon conditions:Grave yeeld upon agreement. Mutiny. The Spaniards seaze upon Hoochstrade. And the Admirall not able to raise the siege, was constrained to retreat: neither could he hinder the disbanding and mutinies of some of his Souldiers, who seazed upon the Town of Hoochstrade, and began a new policy amongst themselves.

The Arch-Duke hastens thither; and the Admiral drawes his stake out of play, and retires himself into Spain, But Albert instead of water, cast oyle into the sire; and, contrary to the advice of the States under his obedience, proscribes them, and declares them Rebels, Traitors, attainted,Mecauban. and con­victed of High Treason in a superlative degree, &c. But it is in vain to be an­gry without strength; and the weak Lawes, yeeld to the unjust violence of Armes. The Squadron of Mutiners remained not mute, and the intercession of the Nuncio proved fruitlesse: the Arch-Duke being resolute, and they re-infor­cing themselves with men and mony, by the near neighbourhood of the consederated Provinces.

Now these Revolts gave advantage to the States, and meanes to go in execution through all the Country of Luxembergh; and such as refused con­tribution, had the grief of seeing their house set on fire. This Cavelcada, or Inroade was finished in lesse then a moneth, and without any resistance at all. During these interludes, the Mutiners governed themselves in form of a Republick, observing a most exact discipline; and amongst other Lawes, forbidding Cards and Dice. They were besieged in Hoochstrade, Are besieged and succoured by Prince Maurice. and suc­coured by the Prince upon certain conditions: which done, he returned again before Boisleduc: But this Conquest was reserved for his Brother, as we shall hereafter shew.

The Arch-Duke, notwithstanding so many inconveniences, mutinies, ve­xations and losses, stood as firm and immoveable, as a Rock against the greatest stormes before Ostend, though to his no small displeasure, saw it of­ten relieved. And Prince Maurice not yet satiated with so many victories both by Sea and Land, resolved to vanquish his contumacie by a more sen­sible diversion. The expences of this siege could not choose but be great; but the people liberally consented without grudging. So pleasant is victory, how dear soever bought.

Money. The arrivall of Marquis Ambrose Spinola with the Golden Fleece was a [Page 40] Spinola came into Flanders with mony. wholesome Balsom to cure the disease of the mutinied Squadron; for it made them return to the Arch-Dukes service, and hastened the rendition of the Town, by the order of continuall mining, which was given by the said Mar­quis. The Prince in the interim was not asleep, for he departed in the moneth of April, with a huge number of Boats, took many Forts, besides the Towns of Isendike and Ardenbergh; and incamped himself before the renowned Town of Sluce, Sluce taken by famine. which, with some Gallies, was rendred three moneths after, by fa­mine, though Spinola acted all the parts, which could be invented by the most subtle wit, and used all the force, which the most valiant and resolute souldier could manifest, to relieve the besieged: But his enemies were too well intrenched, and his provident Rivall, kept himself too much upon his guard.

Ostend taken 1604. The taking of Ostend 1604, followed close upon the heels of that of Sluce, and the composition made by the besieged, was very honourable. There marched out, of divers nations, about three thousand men, the number of the dead, as well on the one side, as the other, surpassed the beleif of man; and the issue of this siege, kept all the power of Europe in suspense. This Age, which was to be all Iron, fire, blood, and slaughter: This Age (I say) which was to be the totall ruine of Christendome, together with that of Faith and Charity; could not begin better, then by such a siege. This was the most famous Schoole of warre, that ever was before, as where all the Martial Spirits resorted, to learn Discipline, and to put it in practice (as they have done since) in their own Countries. The French, the English, the Ger­mans, and the Scots, The Siege last­ed above three years. together with the Hollanders, defended this place about three yeers, through the advantages and commodities afforded them by the Sea. The Spaniards, Italians, Walloons, Burgundians, and other Germans, at­tacked it with all the force, and industry the greatest courages were able to invent. All such as were not present at this bloody exercise, but remained mute at home, at the noise of so much blood-shed; expected the dubious issue of so hazardous a siege, upon which the Monarchy of the whole world seem­ed to depend. Yea, even the Great Turk himself, ravished with joy by the ruine of the Christians, was not a little glad, to see such an obstinate resolu­tion on both sides.

Let us here take notice of the Divine Providence, which (like another Ju­piter) laughs at the folly of Mortalls; who like other Gyants, will needs make themselves masters of all, and endeavour to outbrave the very Elements themselves. The fiercest enemies to mankind are War, Plague, and other Infirmities: The Reward of victory a morsell of earth, and houses buried under their own foundations. And now, if courage and generosity egged on many to this; certainly pitty moved infinitely more, there to be­wayle their friends, buried under the ruines of this second Troy, and view a little piece of ground, which had cost so much pains, so much sweat, so much time, so much blood, and so much mony. All the industry of man was set on work there on both sides; and the Arch-Duke, and Arch-Dutches, had both the trouble, and the charge of repairing this place, and putting it in­to that state, wherein we now see it. Necessity caused this siege (at first judged easie) to be begun, Reputation to be continued, and power (in despight of interest) by the industry and valour of Spinola, brought it to an end.

CHAP. V

Peace made be­tween the Kings of Spain and England. 1604. THe Spaniards, having sufficiently tried the great hurt done them by the English, during the life of Queen Elizabeth, as well in Spain it self, as by Sea, and in the Low-countries; yea, and at the Siege of Ostend also; and find­ing, that all satisfaction endeavored to procure from them, either in Ireland, or England, had not any kind of good successe; began to think, that a peace with these insulary people, would prove necessary for the State. Nor had they much trouble to obtain it; King James being easily inclined to it by some certain jealousie, which had taken root in his soul. The Arch-Duke and his Dutchesse were comprehended in it, and it was concluded the very same day, that the Garrison went out of Ostend.

France, through the enjoyment of seven yeares peace, was so well resto­red, that there seemed not to have been any warre in more then half an age before. King Henry, being a great husband of his Finances, or Exchequer; made a journy to Metz, where two Jesuits cast themselves at his feet, be­seeching him with a very elegant speech, to vouchsafe to re-establish them through all the kingdome. The Parliament of Paris, and the Sorbon oppo­sed them; but the King, by special grace admitted them,The Jesuits re­established in France. and demolished the Pyramide, which had been erected against them, for that one of their Schollars had hurt the King in the mouth; And the Mines, which the Hughenots sprung against their Society, were either discovered or despised: At least, they wrought no effect. But Father Cotton, going once to the King, was at­tacked in the Loüure by a great number of Lackies,Father Cotton hurt by Lackies at the Lonure. who after many quipps and scoffes, very dangerously wounded him, and would have killed him, if a Count had not hastened to the stirre, and taken him out of their bands. His Majesty seemed much displeased herear; and all issued to the confusion of the one, and the glory of the other.

The year following, Prince Maurice had an enterprise upon the Dike of Antwerp, from whence he retyred with remarkable losse, before the Castle of Wowde, which he took by capitulation. The Arch-Duke on the other side, disgusted at the losse of Sluce, and desiring to keep Flanders free from contribution, sent Spinela to the said place, whose credit was already much augmented amongst his enemies, as well as amongst them of the Spanish party. But Maurice, having prevented him, and put all things in good order, he found himself fain to seek the same way, which the Count de Bucquoy had taken, with a flying Camp, towards the Rhein; which he passed, and took Oldenzeel, and Lingen; and if he had prosecuted his business with the same ardor and promptitude, wherewith he began, it was very probable, he might have seased upon Coeverden, Groening; yea, Embden it self, and so have taken footing in Freezland; Warre about the Rhein. in regard that he would have found no great res­stance, for want of men; especially coming upon an exploit, both unforeseen and unexpected. There was yet another very dangerous encounter towards the Rhem, where Prince Henry had incurred great hazard of being killed, or taken, if he had not been seconded by his Brother; wherein he was more happy, then in the enterprise of Guelders.

The Designes upon Grave, and Bergh upon Zoom, were hurtfull to the un­dertakers, and served for an advertisement to them, upon whom they were practised, to keep themselves upon their guard. The Count de Buequoy quickly [Page 42]brake the garrisons of Wotchtendone, and Cracaw; and so winter was as a trumpet which sounded a retreat, to both armies.

The morning is never so fair, but that there appears some cloud upon the Horizon, before the day be quite spent. France is never so well at rest, but that there is some stir, either in one corner or other, or in the middle. For they are people of a fiery spirit, and enemies to quiet. The conspiracy, which was discovered in Provence at that time, and the author whereof was a gentleman of that Country, (who was appreheded at Paris, together with the Secretary to the Spanish Embassador) caused the the said Embassadour to complaine, and reproach, that the Peace was not well kept: to which the King answered by other objections, which were the seeds of the contrariety since, between these two nations, who yet by different wayes, seem to have both, but one object for their end.

The birch of Philip the fourth King of Spaine, the [...] of April. This very yeer 1605, upon the 8^th. of April, was born Philip the 4^th. who holds the Spanish Monarchie at this day. And the same year, died Pope Cle­ment the 8^th. and Theodore Beza, and the year following, Justus Lipsins, Pro­fessour of the University of Lovain.

CHAP. VI

VVHiles the war was thus hot in the Low-Countries, there happened a spark of division in Italy, between the Pope, and the Venetians, which if neglected, might have caused an emborasment no lesse perilous then that; the one, (namely the Romane Catholicks) ministring all kindes of means, and reasons to quench it; and the Reformates, all sorts of invention, to kindle it. The knot of the controversie was, that the said Republick had made a Law, prohibiting all the Ecclesiasticall persons, to buy, or receive by Will, or Testament, any immovable goods, or other inheritances. This Or­der, being ill taken at Rome, caused a Bull, which was published against the said Republick, with the thunderbolt of excommunication, in case it were not revoked within the tearm of four and twenty dayes; interdicting the Priests to say Masse,The difference between the Pope and the Venetians. under paine of the same excommunication. The Se­nate protests against it, and so from words to blows. Italy was instantly in armes. The King of Spaine ofters assistance to the Pope, and Henry the fourth as much, but under condition, that he being eldest son of the Church, his Holinesse would receive no ayde from any other but himself. This proposi­tion, together with the information which he had, that the King of England and the Hollanders (enemies to the holy See) had presented all kind of help to the Venetians, and being also moved by his own prudent goodnesse, and the evident danger, to which the Catholick States would be exposed) caused him to hearken to the perswations of the two Kings, and take off the ex­communication, whereby the businesse was appeased,Taken away by the intercession of the two Kings. and all the Ecclesia­sticks, who were gone out of the City during this fogg, had leave to return, except onely the Jesuites, who carried the whole burthen, and were banith­ed [Page 43]for perpetuity;The Jesuites banished out of the Common­wealth of Venice. nor have all the intercessions, and addresses which have since been made in favour of them, by the King of France, and many other Potentates, served for any thing, but to renew the said order of banishment against them.

The Protestants (their capitall enemies) have not failed to serve them­selves of this occasion, as also of many other, to cry them down every where by accusing them of some conspiracies against the said Common-wealth, whereof yet there is no clear mention made at all. For they make profession to be forbidden by their rule to meddle with State business. But a good Game, good Gaine. They are not without fellowes, for England furnishes them like­wise with matter enough.

Now these animosities being appeased, there returned a calm to all Italy, which we will now leave to come back into Germany and Holland; For here it is that men are alwayes in action both by Sea and Land, whilest the rust of Christendom are at rest. It is true that the Duke of Brunswick seeing Spi­nola with a great army neer Lingen, took a pretext to raise one to, but it was in effect to attack the chief town of the Dutchy.An attempt upon Bruns­wick. His forces seized upon one of the gates, and the wall, without much trouble; but they weakly de­sended those advantages, which they had gotten, and so were shamefully beaten oft. He besieged the town twice, but the Emperour interposing his authority, all was quickly accommodated. Enterprines never snoceed well but by the courage of the under takers.

The King of Denmark goes into England. The King of Denmark went to see his brother inlaw King James, and his sister, where having been regaled the space of a moneth, he returned to­ward his own Kingdom; not without admiring the pomp, and magnifi­cence of the English, and giving marks of his royall greatnesse, to that glori­ous nation. The principall motive of this enterview could never hither to be truly discovered; and whatsoever hath been said thereof, hath been ground­ed onely upon conjectures, suspicions, and mistrusts.

Spinola comes from Spain, and takes, Grol. In the spring of the year 1606 Marquis Spinola returned from Spain, and brought a vast sum of money with him, which is the true sinew of war, and the most excellent oil to anoint the dull armes of the souldiers; and having therewith; put the Militia in good discipline, he sent the Count de Bucquoy to­wards the Rheine, himself following shortly after: but the continuall rains, and the vigilancy of Prince Maurice, made him lose the hope of re-gaining any access to Groening, and the other places of strength on the way. The Count de Bucquoy staying behind, attempted to passe the Vehal, with Pontons and smal Boats, by the favour of a battery, but he was repulsed. But Spinola took Lothem, and seeing then, that amongst so many enterprizes, none of them all prosper­ed so, as to get over the Rivers, either neer the Soul, or elsewhere, he turned his armes against Grol, which by furious attacks, he quickly compelled to yeeld, notwithstanding the Garrison were strong enough. And not yet con­rent with this Town, he caused the Count de Bucquoy to invest Rhinbergh, who could not hinder Count Henry from putting fourteen Colours into the place, and some Cavalrie besides, together with many French Gentlemen Voluntiers.

The complaint of the Spaniard against the French Ca­tholikes. The Spaniards and the most zealous Romane Catholicks of Europe, have very often accused the French of levity, and especially such of them as are Catholicks, in regard that, being of the same Law with the Spaniards, and in peace with them too, they (contrary to the Treaty of Vervin) embraced the other party, not onely to strip their master of his Demaynes, but the towns also themselves of the exercise of the Catholick Religion. If there went none but Spaniards, out of our States (said the obedient Towns) the passion of the French would be in some sort lawfull, but, since our Religion is banished, together with their government, they can alleadge no receivable excuse, to exempt them from [Page 44]injustice and blame. The Priests maintaining, that it was a matter of consci­ence, refused to give absolution to the souldiers, as favourers of Heresie, and enemies to the Church. But they, alwayes covered themselves under the cloak of policy, and made the same answer which Henry the fourth their Master did, to the Spanish Embassador, that it was not a war of Religion, but of State. The complaints often enough made by the Archduke and Dutches, upon this subject, had no other satisfaction, then that there might likewise be found enow, in their Armies; and that it was free for every one, to choose what party he pleased. But the French, followed rather the inclination of their Prince, then scruple in Religion, laid more to heart the weakening of the Power of Spaine, then the ruine of Hereticks; and the interest of their Master, then that of the Catholick faith. So that the Protestants made use of them, and have prevailed much, by the jealousie of State, which reigns betwixt these two potent nations.

CHAP. VII

VVE left Spinola so well intrenched at Rinbergh, that the Princes cou­rage was cooled to attack him, who bethought himself a little too late, of sending his brother to Ʋenlo, so to make a powerfull diversion. For the Town being battered, by a rough, and smart assaulter, and defend­ed by resolute men,Rinbergh ren­dered. was at last, forced to render; and so the Garrison, to the number of three thousand dislodged, the second of October. Now the taking of so important a place, just at the nose of so strong an Army, produ­ced such discourses, as blinde passion dictated, to men of blinde judgement; and the Marquis, as victorious as he was, was not yet able to divert some mutinies in his Army for want of pay: and therefore, considering the huge inconveniencies they suffered, by so many marches, sieges, enterprizes, and the harshuesse of the season, he thought fit to refresh them, in the County of Gulick.

Now, the Prince, who desired to put nothing to hazard, but be ever pry­ing upon occasions, met at length with this. He caused Lochom to be be­sieged, which quickly submitted,Maurico besiges Grol. Spinola rayses him thence, and gives Diet to the inutiners. and then went to attack Grol. But the unexpected arrival of Spinola, made him change the vexations of that siege, (which bred so many diseases in his army) into a most advised retreat, and send his souldiers into their winter quarters. It is the part of a good Pilot, to take his measures well, amongst the rocks; and of a good Generall, to accommodate himself to time; and not to struggle against the harshnesse of the season; but make his retreat, to save his army, the conservation whereof is as landable, as the hazard­ous gaining of a battell. The Marquis having surmounted many inconveni­ences, to deterr his enemies from the continuing the siege, and made them at length dislodge; endeavoured besides, to sweeten the mutiners, by grant­ing Diet, for their winter quarters, where we will leave them, and follow him to Brussels, to contrive the first propositions of the Truce.

Never was there so much trouble to decide a businesse of importance, as there was to bring the confederated States, to hear of any overanes of Peaces, [Page 45]or Truce. It seemed more easie, to make an agreement betwixt fire and water, and all the mettals together, then to reconcile these two parties. But indeed, the distrust was too great, the hatred too much rooted, and fortune too favourable. And whereas other Countries, grow poor by war; this, most rich, most potent, and most flourishing. For on the one side, the enemies army could not enter, in regard of the frequencie of great rivers, and on the other, they are guarded by the sea, in such sort, as that by trafique, they are risen to such a height, that every body courts their friendship.

Many assemblies, and mediations for Peace, and accommodation were made, but all vanished into smoak, and served rather for a spur to war, then a balsom, to mollifie the ulcerated wounds, of such as make their profit by Alarms. For this was the common talk; There is no trust to be given to the Spaniards, or the Papists; for they teach, that they are not to keep their faith with Hereticks: The fowler sings sweetly to draw the birds into his Nets: and many other such reasons, which served onely to destroy all propositions of Peace.

Nay, even the Embassies of the Emperours, so often reiterated, were able to reap nothing but ceremonies, and those of other Princes, yet lesse. The complaints of the neighbours endammadged and oppressed by the souldi­ers, were not heard, or at least requited, with excusing the necessity of times, and affaires. For the sea was too much agitated by the windes, and hatred of them, who would have this potent house, in obedience to the feeble commands of thisThe Ʋnited Provinces li­ving by the windes and waters. Aeolus. In brief, they who spake to the States of peace, were as welcome at the Haghe, as they were at Venice, who spake for the Jesuites, notwithstanding their propositions were just, and equitable, and could not be rejected, but upon meer distrust. But what is impossible to man, is facil to God; and all fruit growes ripe in time. Let us now see the reasons of this resistance.

The States could not imagine, that the King of Spaine would ever re­nounce the Soverainty, of so many, and so illustrious Provinces; and again, they who were become Masters, had lost the will of returning to obedience. They were grown powerfull, by the allyances of France, and England, by the trafique of the Indies, by the picoryes, or spoiles which they had made upon Spain, and the obedient Provinces, with which they offered to make an agreement, and allyance, by excluding the King, and his heirs, but by no means, with his Majesty; whereto the other could not listen, as to a thing impossible and shamefull, and which checked the oath of fidelity, which they had taken. The summons, which the Infanta gave them of her arrivall at Brussels, moved them not at all, either to acknowledge her for Lady, or induce them to peace, or truce. In fine, in the yeer 1607.Great storms at Ester. 1607. (me­morable for the great storms, which happened throughout all the Low-Countries towards Easter) this resistance began by little and little, to grow warm, and this ice to thaw. For they opened their ears, to the charming perswasions of that worthy Prelate; and their hearts, to the great successes of Spinola, who surpassed, or equaled all his Predecessors, in military science. So that the reverent father Iohn May, Provincial of the order of the Franci­scan Friers, was a worthy instrument, of this holy work, who, by his infati­gable care, and most painfull journeys, sometimes from Brussels to the Haghe, and sometimes from thence into Spaine by Brussels, brought the two parties, to a truce of seven moneths, which grew afterwards to be pro­longed.

CHAP. VIII. The defeat of the Spanish Armada. The Design upon Sluce failed. A continuance of the Treaty. Spinola arrives at the Hague. The Treaty again broken, was renewed at Antwerp, where the Truce was made for twelve years.

The Flect bea­ten at Gibe­laltar. DUring these goings and comings to and fro, Admiral Heemskerk went to attack the Spanish Fleet designed for the Indies, which he defeated in the Streights of Gibelaltar, to the great amazement of the Spaniards, to see that people which they had so often beaten, and so often despised, come to assault them even in Spain it self: a strange quipp of Fortune. Times have their turns. And so the first fruit which Spain tasted of a Cessation of Arms, was the calling home of the Ships of the said Common-wealth, which much incommodated her Costs, and lay as snares to snap the Gallions coming from the Indies, with some whereof they very often met; slighting the dan­ger for the advantage of the booty.The enter prise upon Sluce fai­led for want of courage. But before we sheathe our sword, and hang it upon the naile, let us speak a word of that memorable Enterprise up­on the Town of Sluce, which was in the year 1606.

The Spaniards being advertised by two souldiers of the State of the Gar­rison, of the Gates, and of the Wall of the aforesaid Town, sent three thou­sand six hundred men, with that renowned French Gentleman Du Terrail, who was since beheaded at Geneva, for having but so much as thought of an Enterprise upon the City. Now this valiant Cavallier had promised the Arch-Duke either to deliver him the place, or die in the Attempt. And so he marched with his Troops through the Drowned Lands, without being discovered; approached the Town, set threeAn Engine to force Gares. Petards on work about the Gate, the last whereof got it open; but the hearts of the souldiers grew so cold, that they durst not venter in. Never was there an Enterprise of im­portance more easie to be effected, without either danger or resistance; and never was there any which more loosely fayled for want of courage, and good command: so that it proves most true, that a Coward can never do a good action. Du Terrail not having authority enough to animate these Cow­ards to enter the Town, was constrained to retyre with them, and ask leave to withdraw himself from them, to a Nation which never failed in any oc­casion for want of courage, as being more apt to offend in the other extreme. Besides that, danger urged him away in respect of the execution of three Captains, who paid the score dear enough for all the rest. Thus God dis­poses of all things contrary to the expectation of man. Let us now come back to the begun Treaty.

The arrivall of the Arch-Dukes Depaties at the Hague. Spinola, Richardot, Mamicidor, Father Iohn Nay, and the rest of the De­puties arrived at the Hague, and were received there with many comple­ments, and tieated according to the dignity both of their employments, and their persons; and chiefly at the Court. The Prince, and the Lords of prime quality, went to meet them at Riswick; where after the ceremonies were performed, the Marquis went into the Princes Coach. A strange Metamorphosis; to see the two chief Captains of the world, most bitter enemies a lit­le before, court one another now with true respect, and draw the eyes of the people to admire thew. Persons of honour and glory may be hated by the wicked, but vertue never. Now, because it is not my design, nor can this History permit me to particularize all along, upon what passed in this illustrious Assembly; I will [Page 47]content my self with saying, that the demand of the said Embassadours con­cerning the forbearance of Traffick to the Great America. Indies, and the reduction of the exercise of the Roman Catholick Faith, had almost broaken off this Treaty.

In effect, some advices from other parts, and the retardment of the Pro­vinciall aforesaid in Spain, moved the States to sen forth a Protestation, con­taining their finall intention: And the Embassadours of the Princes who were Mediatours between them, counselled the States, to hearken at least to a Truce, since there was yet no room for Peace.

They retire. But they, sticking fast to their resolution, and the Embassadours of Spain likewise persisting within the limits of their Commissions, there was no means at all to make them joyn, or come to a conclusive Definition. And so in fine, they parted from the Haghe, not without Protestations on both sides, of the sincerity of their intentions for the good issue of the said Treaty; each casting the fault upon the other. But after their departure, the States were advised by the Kings of England and France, (with both whom they had made a most streight Allyauce, for the maintaining of the Peace, in case it were concluded) to renew the Treaty of a Truce: And to this effect it was again taken into deliberation by the said Embassadours at Antwerp in the moneth of March, The Treaty re­newed at Ant­werp. whether the States likewise sent their Deputies; name­ly, Count William of Naffaw, and the Lord of Brederode, the [...]5. of the same moneth, and they concluded a Truce for twelve yeares, upon the ninth of April 1609, which caused great rejoycing every where, as well amongst the Neighbours, as the Parties themselves concerned;Truce made. and the Embassadours were regaled, and honoured with great presents.

During this Treaty, many libels were made and dispersed; some with reasons, to countermine this sweet Peace; and others to advance it. Birds of mischief seck the dark and like Owlas, blame the light as hurtfull, and discovering their actions: And so their fluttering was despised.

And here we see the end of this war for a while, which sprung up at the beginning of the reign of King Philip the second, and that upon divers pre­texts; as namely, that of liberty of conscience, and priviledges; and under various Governours, of different humours; fomented by ambition, Religi­on, and diffidence, under the Princess of Parma, the Duke of Alva, Don Lewis, Don Iohn of Austria, on the one side, and Prince William, and the States-Gene­rall, on the other, the latter whereof made a strong union amongst them­selves at Ʋtrick, the Articles of which (namely, for the free exercise of the Roman Catholick Religion) have been much altered. They formed their Common-Wealth under the Arch-Duke Matthias, and the Duke of Alan­son: under the Prince of Parma, they begged the assistance of the King of France, and the Queen of England: They continued the Warre with much success against Count Mansfeld, and Cardinall Andrew: They repaired what was amiss in their Republick, by the factions which arose under the Earl of Leicester: They valiantly defended themselves against the Arch-Duke Albert, and the Brave Spinola, even till the very publication of the Truce. We will now stay awhile, and repose our selves in the rest of the Low-countries; which we so much desired, as being the part where the War was so long time carried on with so much expense, and no lesse industry, then good discipline; though it were often disturbed, by the frequent mu­tinies of the Spaniards, for want of pay, from whence the Confederares knew how to draw most considerable advantages.

CHAP. IX

THe hast we had, to see an interruption of the misfortunes, wherewith the BelgickThe Low-countries. Lion had been tormented above fifty years together, and his roaring heard throughout the whole Universe, to the astonishment of all the greatest States of the world; made us slight the reasons of them, who, partly out of hatred to the House of Austria, and partly for the Roman Catholick Faith (the utter abolition whereof they passionately desired) endeavoured to hinder the Truce. We will therefore turn back a little towards France, which flourished now, as if there had never been any warres at all. Courte­sie, the essential vertue of that Nation, together with the Beauty, Bounty, and Fertility of this kingdome, founded upon most excellent Lawes, fine Sciences, and laudable Exercises, attracted the Nobility of all Europe thi­ther, as to a School of vertue and glory. In effect, there was no remarka­ble Commotion, able to give any apprehension or disturbance to the Publick Rest: For the Warre of Savoy, and the conspiracy of the Mar­shall Biron, were almost as foon smoothered, as known. It was a kind of Terrestrial Paradise, where they who were enemies about the difference of Doctrines, lived in friendship, by the authority of their Master, who main­tained peace both abroad,The death of Charles Duke of Lorraine. and at home. Charles Duke of Lorraine, a Prince loaden with age, adorned with singular vertue and piety, lest his Sonne Henry his Heyre, to retire himself to the Coelestiall lerusalem, in the yeare 1608.

The King of France goes to Sedan with an Army. In brief, the fruits of Peace were most delicious, when the King suddenly raised a great Army, and conducted it to Sedan, For there were some mis­understandings between him, and the Duke of Boüillon, which were taken away, by the intercession of the forrain Embassadours. However, this Ca­valcada gave no small jealousie to the Spaniards, who found themselves obli­ged thereby to put strong Garrisons through all the country of Luxemburgh; and the Confederates reaped great profit from it. For it made men believe, that it was but a fiction, or rather a prelude of that huge preparation, which we shall shortly relate. However, much talke there was of it, and great indagation into the reasons thereof, by men of curiosity. The Duke of Boüillon, feeling the pulse of the Protestant Princes, his neighbours, judged it not necessary to draw blood yet: and that which was differred, shall be found in sit time.

Misunderstand­ings amongst the Princes of house of Austria. We are now revoked into Germany, to see what passed in Austria, amongst the Princes of that Family. Hungary was in disorder, because the Peace was not confirmed with the Turks; which was redressed by the Arch-Duke Mathias, and so a peace was concluded for twenty years, upon condi­tion, that Achmet should call the Emperour Father, and the Emperour him Son: and that since they were both Emperours, they should renew their amity every three yeers, by reciprocal Presents. He remedied the disasters of the said kingdom, by granting liberty of Religions, and Transylvania, to Borskay; after whom succeeded Stephen Ragotskie, who transferred it upon his Cousin Bethleem Gabor, of whom, as having been a great Instrument of many troubles, we shall make frequent mention hereafter. Now, the Em­perours brother Mathias, by this so necessary a pacification, gained the hearts of the people, strengthened his Authority, came into Bohemia, in­camped [Page]

[Page 49]himselfe before Prague; granted the same liberty to the Bohemians, made his entry into Vienna, received the Oath of Fidelity, was Crowned King of Hungary, married his Kinswoman, and at the request of the Duke of Saxony, and some Hungarian Lords, granted the Exercise of the Confes­sion of Auxbourgh, throughout all Austria: Which licence wonne him the affections of the Protestants, who were ever spying after some meanes, to put division into the said Family; but on the other side, it gave no small offence to the Pope, the Emperour, and the King of Spain, though yet all were appeased in those parts for some yeares. But hereupon there was very great difficulty to reconcile Rodolph with Mathias, for he com­plained that all this was done out of contempt of his authority. Yet in fine, by the submission of Mathias, and the intercession of the Pope and Princes, it was brought to a temperament, and the Emperour declared him his Successour in the Crowne of Bohemia, in case himself came to die with­out issue.

Now these divisions between Brothers, and Cousin-Germans of the same House, were taken (by such as meddle not a little to pick out the actions thereof) but for artifices, or tricks; and men said, it was the only right way to preserve Hungary, Moravia, Bohemia, and other Provinces depending upon the said kingdome, from falling into the hazard of a new Election: A conjecture, grounded upon probabilities of consideration enough.

Spain in the mean while, looked not only upon the troubles of the Low-countries, and means to bring them to an end; but she had likewise a parti­cular care, to steer her Indian Fleets into a good Port: For, as for the rest, there had in some years passed nothing, which could disturb the tranquility of that kingdom. But in the year 1609. there was discovered a Conjurati­on, which, had it taken effect, would have involved it in a totall ruin, sup­planted Christian Religion, and reduced the King to fly for Sanctuary else­where. But the greatest storms are those, which often do least hurt, and are diverted by slight causes: Yea, a gentle rain often allayes the most furious windes. The Mores implored the assistance of the Grand Signior, The Conjurati­on of the Mores discovered in Spain. and other Mahometan Princes, the Doctrine of whom they followed in effect, though in apparence Christians: and they had also for a long time been heaping up Arms, and with the slight succour of twenty thousand men, (they being al­ready at the least a hundred thousand in Spain combatants) they promised themselves to bring all Spain under their subjection. But being detected,They are bani­shed into Africa. & the King of France having refused them his ayde, they were all embarked in the kingdom of Valencia, and transported into Barbary, by the Kings command. Now this expulsion of them, together with so many Colonies, as the Spani­ards have in the Indies, and an infinite number of other Islands, hath much dispeopled the Continent of Spain, and greatly retarded the progresse,The cause of dispeopling Spain. which this Warlike Nation might otherwise (peradventure) have made upon her enemies. And this was very well foreseen by a certain Spanish Don, who told King Philip the second, that the transportation of the Natives, would one day be the ruine of Spain. But before we passe any further, let us speak a word of this kingdom, the power whereof is so great, that it gives jealousie to all the States of the Universe.

CHAP. X

SPaine is separated from France, by the Pirenaan hills; and from Affrica, by the Levant, or Eastern Sea, which communicates it self, with the Ocean, by that considerable passage, called the streights of Gibelatrar. The Romans made two Provinces of Spaine; and in those two desperate sieges of Segun­gum, and Numantia, as well they, as the Affricans, tryed the constancy, and courage of the Spaniards; from whom they received great services, in their armies. So that it is not now onely that they are valiant souldiers.

The Goths enter into Spaine 168. The Goths, Sweves, and Vandals, after they had ransacked the Empire, made choice of Spaine, for the seat of their domination, as being very pro­per, to command both Europe, and Affrica. They entered about the yeer 168. and remained in possession thereof, more then four hundred, that is, till Rodrigues, with almost all his nobility, was defeated by the Saracons, who were brought in by a certain Earl, in revenge of the honour of his daughter, whom the King had ravished. Vengeance is against Christian Religion, and yet this young Lady made her own native Country a prey to the Barbarians. They maintained themselves there, above seven hundred yeers, as well against the French, as the Spaniards themselves, who endeavoured to expell them. In precedent ages, there were numbered about twelve Crowns, or King­doms, which were all reduced to one, by Ferdinand, and Isabell, in the yeer 1474. except that of Portugal which being subjugated by Philip the second, both by armes, and right of succession, hath been peacefully possessed, by him and his heirs, till the yeer 1640. when the Portugezes withdrew them­selves from obedience to Philip the fourth, and chose for their King, the Duke of Braga [...]sa, under the name of John the jourth. It was in the reign of the aforesaid Ferdinand, The Indies found our under Ferdi­nand of Castill. that the Indies, and many other Islands were found out, the riches whereof hath much augmented the potency of Spaine, and made her aspire (as her enemies say) to the Monarchie of the whole world.

Spaine, in some parts, is very sertil; as for example, in Andaluzia, which Province, as well for plenty of all blessings of the earth, as for the pleasures, and delights of the fields, is a meer terrestriall Paradise. The horses which she produces, are so swift in course, that they seem (according to the pro­verb) to be engendered by the winde. She feeds an infinite of sheep, almost every where; but chiefly, in Castill, where there is made most excellent cloth; and the wooll, for the superlative finenesse thereof, is transported, into the Low-Countries, and store of cloth wrought in this very town of Leyden, which is much sought for by the French, and other nations. But in some parts also, there is barren enough, through the lazinesse (as it is re­ported) of the inhabitants, who love much better, to put their hands to the sword (to walk with it by their sides) then to the plough. The wines which grow in Spaine, are much esteemed in England, and the Low-Countries, and through all the North. The Spaniards great Catho­licks. The Spaniards are much commended, for their fidelity: they are very zealous for the Church of Rome; very devour, and carry so great respect to the virgin Mary, and the reliques of Saints, that it causes them to passe, amongst them of the reformed Religion, for hypo­crites and idolaters: They are both melancholy and cholerick; very sober, and content with little; they spend more upon the back, then the belly. [Page]

[Page 51]They are very ambitious, and good Souldiers; for they know as well, how to use victory, as to gaine it, and are much more exactly observant of disci­pline, then any nation of the world, Above all, they do wonders in places besieged, both by rejecting attacks, and patiently induring the inconveni­ences of a siege. They are enemies to all such, as follow not the doctrine of the Romane Church, upon whom they have exercised great cruelties, whereby they have made themselves very odious, But, as the Germans are wont, with much importunity, and unseasonablenesse, to require their pay, just upon the paine of a battell; so do the Spaniards, by sedition, after they have fought, which corrupts the fruit of their victory. They faithfully serve their King, but they will have their priviledges kept.Spaine an here­ditary Kingdom The Kingdome is hereditary; and forwant of an heir male, it falls to the Distaff.

Now, besides tho reasons aforementioned, why there are so few inhabi­tants in a Country of large extent, there is yet another, which is this. Ferdi­nand and Isabell, having finished the Warr with the Moors, resolved to ex­pell the Jews also, out of the territories under their obedience; who trans­ported themselves into Affrion, Italy, the Levant, and Portugal, The Jewes va­nished out of Spaine, and Portugall., from whence they were likewise chased some yeers after. And besides, the wo­men are sterill enough; especially towards the south; and again, the warrs, which their Kings have so long had, in Germany, Italy, France, and the Low-Countries, not forgetting the infinity of Garrisons, which they are obliged to keep, to containe their people in their duty) have so much ex­hausted Spaine, that the King hath given great freedoms, and immunities to such as have five or six male Children: Yea moreover, strangers are invited to come and dwell there, under profitable conditions, provided still, that they be Romane Catholicks; for the Inquisition suffers no other Religion then that.

Now, this Inquisition, so much cried down, and reviled by other Nations, was instituted at the first, for the rooting out of the Mahometisme, The Inqui­sition. and Ju­d [...]sme, though it now extend it self, upon all such, as give but the least suspi­cion, of not adhering totally, to the definition of the Church of Rome. If the said Kingdom were as well peopled as France, the King would have made farre greater conquests then he hath, and would not have been forced, to expose his money, and his armies, to the infidelity of some strangers. In fine, the King of Spaine hath so many Kingdoms, so many Provinces, and so many Islands, in all parts of the Universe, that it was with good reason, that a certaine great person, in the yeer 1624, refuted Sleidan, concerning the four Monarchies, in these tearms. Philip the fourth, who now reigns (saith he) upon whose lands the sunne never sets, is more potent, then was any one of those Monarchs for the continuance of neer four score yeers together.

This nation walks slowly to conquest, but she keeps well what she hath gotten: She is tardy to resolve, but she stoutly pursues what is resolved; She is not frighted at the encounter of any difficulties, and accomplishes her ends, for the most part, by pertinacy, and obstinacy. She foresees afar off, and never looses, either patience, or hope; howbeit, that length of expecta­tion, makes her often loose good occasions. She doth marvels, under an Italian Generall; which was observable, in the Prince of Parma, Marquis Spi [...]ola, and others.

The Spaniards constant and haughty. This proud Nation better understands the art of governing, then all other; and she hath in her, some witts so subtle and acute, that her very enemies themselves, who hate her, are fain to praise her. And now, let us come back againe, over the hills, to take notice, of the complexion, of that brisk Nation her rivall, which hath often stopped her victories, in the heigth of their course, both in the Low-Conntries, Germany, and Italy.

France most populous. France is a most large, most rich, and most populous Kingdome, divided from Italy, by Savoy and the Alps; from High-Germany by Lorraine; from England by the Sea; and from Low-Germany by Luxemburgh, Hennanlt, Ar­toise, and French-Flanders.

The Romans who subjugated the Gawles, and distributed them into Bel­gick, C [...]ltick, and Aquitanick, were beaten out (by the opinion of some Authors) by Clo [...]s, the first Christian King, about the year 500.

The Francks passed the Rhein under Pharamond the first King. Clodion went not beyond Cambray, and was forced to return by Stilicon. Aetins cut off his Army, made him repass the Rhein, und hurried him back in Francony-Mero [...]e laying hold of the advantage of the confusions of the Empyre, took Trevers, passed into Campagne, from thence to Paris, and then to Orleans; and so then, and there began to establish the French Monarchy; giving to Gawl which he had conquered,Gawl takes the name of France. the name of France.

This kingdom by succession of time, hath been been very much augmen­ted, and hath soon raised to the Throne Royall, two and twenty Kings, of the first Family,Bre [...] o [...]. and thirteen of the second; the first whereof was Pepin, Father-in-Law to Charlemagne. Hugh Capet, the first King of the third Fa­mily, by the exclusion of Charlos Duke of Lorraine, through force of Arms, and the favour of some of the Grandies, got the Government of the French Monarchy, about the year of our salvation, 993. Lewis the fourteenth, who reigns at present, is the thirtieth of that Family. This kingdom is composed of four and twenty Provinces, wherein there are fifteen Arch-Bishoppricks, ninty seven Bishoppricks, ten Parliaments, fourteen Ʋniversities, and four Orders of Knighth [...]od; that of the Starre was eclipsed under Charles the fist: that of St. Michael, now little valued; and the third, and that which hath most luster, is of the Holy Ghost, instituted by Henry the third: The fourth is not much pursued. In ancient times, there were but twelve Pe [...]rs of France; six Ecclesiasticall, and six Secular, and they were, the Arch-Bishop of Rhenns, the Bishops of L [...]ton, Langres, Chalons, Noyon, and Beau [...]ais: The Dukes of Burgun­dy, of Normandy, of Guienne, and the Earles of Flanders, tholose, and Cham­pagne. But the number of Dukes and Peers, is now very very much encreased, as also that of Marshals and the Rights of both, very much diminished.

The French inclined to ams. The French areso naturally inclined to Arms, that the Proverb sayes, they are born Souldiers, nor can they indeed stay long at rest; for if they have no warre with their Neighbours, they quickly make it amongst themselves, by the ambition of some Lords or other, as also by the Martial humour wherewith they are tormented. Points of honour make them runne into the Field, as to a Feast; in such sort, as that the greatest part of the Nobility unhappily falls in Duels. They are very impatient, and enemies to the Spa­niards, by maxime of State; whom, by all means possible they oppose, to the end that they may not arrive, to the Ʋniversal Monarchy; or else, that, under this pretext, they may atchieve it themselves. They go like Thunderbolts, to Combats, and Conquests, and reverse whatsoever oppugnes them; but, as soon as this heat growes to be a little cooled, they turn their backs, and sud­denly loose what they had gained with so much reputation. It is no lesse lau­dable to keep, thou to get, which the Spaniards know very well. Prosperity ea­sily makes them slight their enemies, and jeer their Allies, to whom they ren­der themselves suspected, by the vanity of their tongues; in such sort, as this kind of levity does them much harm. The French are more then men (sayes the Proverb) at the beginning of a Fight, and lesse then women, towards the end. But, they have given a contrary account of themselves in many Battails in Italy, and the Low-countries; where, after they been repulsed or routed, they have rallyed, and carried away many glorious victories, as we shall hereafter see.

Besides, it must be confessed, that the French Cavalry is the stoutest, and best of the whole world. There is also a saying, that the French are wise after the businesse, and the Spaniards before it. In effect, they are rash; yea, and they have very often wonne Battails, by this very Passion. Their generosity is re­markable, in regard they grudge not to give praise to the vertue even of their enemies, when they deserve it: They are of so gentile an humour, that they make themselves admired by strangers: but they agree so ill, out of their Country, by occasion of petty envies, and shamefull detractions, that they are generally blamed every where for it, and make themselves disesteemed by it, The Clergy, the Gentry, and the People, are the three States,Three States. upon which the Monarchy rests; the Priviledges, and Liberties whereof, if well maintained, would make it the most flourishing in the World. But let us now see, what passed there, during the Peace; for it is not our scope, to make a most ample relation of the particulars of every kingdom.

CHAP. XI

Croupir. KIng Henry having too generous a heart, to be longidle, was meditating Warre, even during the Peace: For which effect, he had alwayes a spe­cial care, by the admirable oeconomy, or stewardship of the Duke S [...]illy, toPreparation of war in France. to mannage and husband his Finances, or Exehequer, and accumulate great treasures. On the other side, he saw a brisk Nobility, which longed for no­thing more, then the occasions to express their Martial courage, under the conduct of so great and valorous a Captain. He therefore resolves to raise an Army, for the execution of some huge Designe, which he kept private to himself, to give exercise to his warlike People. The pretext was, the Warre of the Princes, Heyres to the Dukedom of Gulick, Cleveland, and Bergues. But, because the truth, of the principall motives of this arming of his,Ʋnder pretex of the war of Juliers, or Julick. could never yet be known, we will only note such conjectures thereof, as are grounded upon very receivable probabilities.

He would not so easily have pardoned the Heads of the Leagus, for the mothereing of the Civill Warres, had it not been, to revenge himself one day, upon the Spaniards, who had so powerfully traversed, or thwarted his lawfull succession the Crown. He saw himself cherished by his subjects, fea­red by his enemies, loved by all his Allyes, and chiefly by the States Genera [...] of Holland. Moreover, the interest of the Crown seemed to invite him, to reduce under his States, all such Provinces as speak French, and consequent­ly, the greatest part of all the Low-countries, which had formerly been of the Demaynes of France; as namely, the Counties of Flanders, and Artoise, the Dutchy of Luxemburgh, and many other, which would not have been able to esape his ambition. The flight of the Prince of Conde, caused this speedy Arming; and the honourable, and Christian protection, which he found in the States, as well of the King of Spain, as in those of the Arch-Duke in the Low-countries, seemed likewise, to give some colour of justice, to the most Christian King, irritated against a Prince of his own blood. This Prince, when he was two and twenty years old, married Margaret, Daughter to he Constable Montmorency, a most beautiful, and vertuous Princess, whom he veretly carried to Brussels, so to quench the fire, which her Charms had [Page 54]kindled in the heart of the King. But Love holding the Empyre, over the Reason of this generous Alexander, commanded him to recover by force, that which vertue so justly denied him. In so much, as that, for this chast Helen of France, all Europe was like to be cast into most dan­gerous troubles.

Now the Princes of Germany weary of seeing the Empyre, so long in the possession of the House of Anstria; as also of the prolix rest they had enjoy­ed, together with the encrease of their Treasuries; would not have been offended to see the Imperial Crown, upon the Head of King Henry: And he, seeing the disorder which happened in that Family, and strengthened by the friendship of some Catholick Princes,Paxadge de­manded of them of Colem. as well as most assured, of that of the Protestants; leaned visibly that way. The Magistrates of Colein, being intreated by his Deputies, to grant Provisions for mony, and passage for his Army, were fain to avow, that it would be temerity to opposeso great a King, who had been alwayes victorious; Besides the noises which some scattered up and down, that he would allow and main­tain three Religions; to wit, the Roman, the Lutheran, and the Refor­med. In brief, his Designe seemed to be, to extend the bounds of the French Monarchy, at the cost of the House of Austria, and some neigh­bour-Princes.

In the mean time, the King Don Philip stood not with his arms a cross, at the newes of this terrible Preparative,The Arch-Duke puts an Army on foot. which rejoyced all such as were enemies to his States. The Arch-Duke Albert contracts all his old for­ces, raises new, and sends a strong Army towards the Consines of France, under the command of Spinola, who intrenched himselfe near Gambray. In fine, men talk of nothing but Armes and Horses, in the Countries of both Crownes; and the Pope sends his Nuncio to divert the King from his Designe; but he was dispatched to Monzon.

Amazement every where. Now all Europe stood amazed, and the Princes of Italy, seeing the Duke of Savoy in allyance with Henry, by meanes of the marriage of his Sonne, with the Daughter of France; begin to think of their preserva­tion. The King, in the interim, confirms his Intelligences; gives the Rendezvous of his Troops in Campagne; and after having extraordinari­ly courted the Embassadours of the United Provinces, conjures them, to to send Prince Maurice with some Troops to attend his coming, at the fronteer of Cleveland. The Protestant Princes could hardly dissemble their joy:The joy of the Protestants and fear of the Ca­thol [...]ks. and the Cartholick strangers their fear, at the approach of so formi­dable an Army, Infine, both friends and enemies, were ballancing or staggering, in apprehension, joy, and uncertainty; and every one in pain, to know what he was either to hope, or fear.

It came so farre, as to be published, that the King was to march with an Army of forty thousand men, and leave as many to guard the king­dome, whereof he declared the Queen Regent, after her Coronation, But he was treacherously murthered, in his Coach, the fourteenth of May, 1610, and this fatall blow put all France in mourning, his Corps into the Tomb, and his great Designes into Smoak, Above all this misfortune was impatiently taken by them of the Religion, as also by the greatest part of his Allyes, amongst whom his Arms had not as yet moved the least jealousie. The most generall opinion was, that after having establi­shed the Princes in the possession of the Dutchyes of Galick and Cleveland; he was to go for Germany. And indeed, the House of Austria had reason to keep her selfe upon her guard, as well knowing how much this Prince was affected to her opposers.

His death gave matter enough every where, for men to inform them­selves, of who might be the Authour; and the Jesuits were not forgotten to be called in question by the Protestants, however Ravillia [...] never confes­sed any such thing. This King was brought up in labour and toyle, and noursed in the the Civil Warres. His first wife was Margaret of Valois, His Life. whom when he was come to the Crown, he repudiated. He had been Head of the Hugenots, and wonne many Battails, against them of the League. When he was become Catholick, and after the reconciliation of the Dukes of Mayanne, and Mercoenr, all stooped, and layd down their arms. He had a quick wit, brave thoughts and excessive high points of judgement; had in fine such eminent qualities, as would have ranged him in the number of the grearest Kings, that ever wore a Crown, had ho not been too passionately inclined to handsom women; a vicious habit, which is familiar to Princes. He alwayes loved the United Provinces of the Low-Conntr [...]es, and assisted them with men, money, and counsell, notwithstanding the complaints of the Arch-Dukes. He was the Resto­rer of the French Monarchy, which was horribly tottered: and obtained by generall consent (in regard of his heroick actions in arms) the surname of Great. He was beloved, feared, and redoubted; and amongst all his Kingly vertues, none shined more brightly then his Clemencie.VVhy suspected to be a Huge­not. Many were in doubts of his Religion; for the G [...]genots believed him of theirs, and some others also besides, in respect of the favour ge shewed to the Protestant Party: and for that it was imputed to him, to have said, that the Crowne of France was well worth a Masse. It is onely God who can judge of the Conscience of Soveraigns; and therefore men must be silent, and abey. However it were, he much loved Conferences, and Disputes; as it appeared by that of Cardinall Peronn [...], against Du Plessis Mornay.

The Confederated States had good reason to love him, in regard of the care he alwayes took to conserve them; though their seeing him expected by Prince Maurice, with the forces of the Low-countries near Wesel, and a Letter written by him to the Princesse Dowager of Orange, intimating, that he would come and visit her at the Hague, not as a King, but as her kinsman, thrust a flea into their eare. The said Prince of Orange, above all, impatiently took this strange and unexpected ac­cident. But indeed, his death freed a good part of Europe, from a great terrour; filled the other, with sadnesse, and amazement; gave way to the Prince of Conde, to return into France, with his wife; and so the Armies to retire to rest till another season, and another conjuncture, which after­wards presented it self in the Warre of Gulick.

CHAP. XII

VVE have already shewed, how the pretext, of the Arms of Hebry the Great, was the succour promised to the Princes of Brandea­bourgh, and Newbourgh; therefore let us now look upon the justice of the Com­petitors, since the quarrell is not quite consopited yet. Sone weeks before the the conclusion of the Truce,Death of the Duke of Gulick. deceased John Wolliam, Duke of Cleveland, and Gulick, leaving no Children by the Countesse of Baden, his former wife; no [...] yet by the sister of the Count of Vandemon, his later. Now, this Princesse, passing through Colein, was received by the illustrious Magistraces, and Ci­tizens of that ancient City, with great magnisicence, acclamations, and wishes of fertility in this match; and all this for their interests, which are visible enough in themselves, without any need at all, to speak thereof.

Mary Eleonor, her eldest sister, was married to Albert Frederick, Duke of Prussia, who died without issue male, and left four daughters behinde him.

Anne, who was the eldest, was given to John Sigismund Duke of Branden­bourgh, and Elector of the Empire.

The second, to the Old Elector.

The third, to the Duke of Courland.

The fourth, to Duke John George of Saxonie, brother to the E­lector.

The second sister of the said Duke, called Anne, in the year 1574. married Philip Lewis, Duke of Newbourgh, in which marriage she brought Wolsgang William, who kept his Court at Dusseldorp, and died in the moneth of April, in this year of 1653.

The third, who was Magdalen, was made wife to the Duke der Deux-Ponts.

And Sibill, the fourth, was bestowed upon Charles Duke of Austria, who had no childe.

Difference for s [...]cession. Now Duke Iohn William, dying without children, Iohn Sigismund Elector of Brandenbourgh, who married Anne, (as we have already said) eldest daughter to the eldest sister, of the said last Duke, presented himself to be received by the States of the said Dutchy, wherein he was opposed, by the Duke of Newbourgh, son to the second daughter Magdalen, who was then, yet living.

The Dukes of Brandenburgh and Newburgh The Elector of Saxonie, and the Duke of Neuers, declared themselves also heirs: so that the Emperour Rodolph, summons the Parties to appear before him: endeavours to sequester the Dutchies, and to that end, dispatches the [Page 57] Archduke Leopold, N [...]wburgh re­fuse the seque­stration, and demand relief from France. Bishop of Straesbourgh, who makes himself master, of the Town, and Castle of Gulick. Whereupon the two first presumptive Heirs, upon some articles of governing the Country, made an agreement between themselves, and in stead of addressing themselves to Prague, before the Lord of the Fief (who is the Emperour) had recourse to the King of France. O! How great is the strength of distrust, which tyes the hands of justice, and gets authority over ber? They obtained a promise of strong relief. The other Princes, both Protestants and Catholicks, yea, even the Emperour himself, sent their Embassadours likewise to Paris; where the King sound­ed them all, one after another. In the mean time, they take Arms, make Excursions, awaken the Neighbours: The Germane Protestants receive the Alarm,Germany takes the Alarm. and assemble themselves at Hal: and the Catholicks, on the other side, at Hirtsburg, there to provide for their safety, propose the Election of a new King of the Romanes, and bring the said Protestants, to a more strict ob­servance of the accord of Passavia.

These, are the first seeds, of the divisions; which, being come to maturity, will quickly fill all Germany, with horrible disturbances, as being watered by strangers, (for fear least they perish) with moisture, or humanity drawn out of the essence of Religions, as we shall briefly shew, in fit place.

The businesse of Donawerds, Atumult at Donawerdt, which is pro­scribed and foreed by the Duke of Bavaria. which had already irritated the Protestants, passed thus. Some Religious or Conventuall men dwelling in the towne, and endeavouring to make a Procession, were desired by the Magistrates to desist, for fear of some tumult. But they answered, that they would not quit their Rights, which depended upon the Emperour. In short, they make a Procession; the people falls upon them, and affronts them. The Emperour informed of the insolence, demands an exemplary punishment; wherein being disobeyed, he proscribes the Towne, and gives the execution thereof to the Duke of Bavaria, who by a siege forced it to submit. Now this pro­ceeding very much displeased the Protestants; and principally such, as were grieved, to see the Empire so long, in a profound Peace. But the enmity was not yet grown so strong, for it shortly after brake out, to the ruine of all this great Body. But let us returne to the Country of Gulick.

The Princes excessively afflicted at the death of the King of France, Gulick besie­ged and taken. sollicit­ed Prnice Maurice, to besiege Gulick; which he did, and by the assistance of the French Army, under the conduct of Marshall de la Castre, constrained Leopold, to render the said place into the hands of the said Princes, upon an honourable composition. Now it is to be observed, that they would not ad­mit of a sequestration, nor the decision of the Emperour, to whom it belongs by right, but it looks as if they all endeavoured, to weaken the Principall head of Europ. And so, the Princes were reproached, for having ejected the Garrison of Gulick, with forraine forces, which was immediately to con­remne the Imperiall authority; and that they had thereby, given cause to the Emperour, to arme against them.

The Duke of Saxonie, beares also the title of Duke of Gulick, Cleveland, and Montagues, and draws his pretentions from Sibill, Aunt to John William, and Daughter to William, who was given in marriage, to Iohn Frederick, Elector of Saxonie, who lost the Electorac, for having taken arms, against the Emperour Charles. He was admitted by the two Princes, to govern the Country till the definitive decision of the difference. It seems, that diffidence and suspicion, in affairs of State, authorize the taking up of Arms, without any other forme of Iustice, and that it is no more lawfull, to the Lord of the Fief to dispose of his Right.

CHAP. XIII

VVE left the King of Poland very busie, about recovering his King­dome of Sweden, and the expulsion of the Swedes, our of Livonia: and now, we finde him as busie to maintaine himself in the Elective, after having lost the Hereditary. Fortune never ceases to trouble Vertue, and one disaster comes not without another. The begining of the troubles, was by a lit­tle blast, or slash, which kindled a fire, that carried it self, to the very highest loft, or story of the building. The scholars of the Jesuites, through an impi­ous zeale,Yu [...]nlss in Poland. rushed one day upon the Church, of the Protestants of Posen, and set it on fire. Prince Radzivil, and some other Ranting blades of the Party, took arms, for the defence (as others said) of their liberty, and to revenge this injury, under the vaile of Rakozians. Fortune smiling upon them at first, and they puffed up with a small victory, endeavoured to expell the King, and choose another, unlesse he would subscribe to some certaine insup­portable articles proposed by them. Ill intentions grow to be discovered, by good successe. In a word, the Warr was kindled in good earnest, and the cloak of Religion not forgotten.The Rakozians being beaten make Peace. The Rebels, or Rakozians being defeated, and vanquished, returned to be friends, and good subjects. But some space after, the wound having been dressed by too milde a Chirurgion, opened and gangroened, and could not be shut up, without strong salves, and fresh bleedings.

King Charles of Sweden, having crowned himself, and renewed the War in Livonie, made use of this intestine sedition: Sigismund made a brisk oppo­sition, as well to him, as to the Swedes, and Muscovites also, whose Empire was then full of factions.The siege of Smolensko. He besieged Smolensko, and after two years siege, carried it. This was a second Ostend, if we consider the length of the siege, and the number of the dead, which, if those authors who gave us the de­scription thereof, be worthy of credit, amounted to more then twenty thou­sand men. There was another Polish Army, imployed, to force the head City called Mosco, whilest the rest of the Troops got huge victories, and took the Yown of Novogrode, and the great Duke Suiskie, together with his two Brothers, prisoners. The the great Cham of Tartarie, astonished at so ma­ny high Victories, offered to submit himself, to the King of Poland. But Sigismond returned, and the confederated Muscovites, to be payd their Ar­reares, followed him; and being satisfied, they were a further meanes to get yet more Victories,The Muscovites rejell Uladis­laus. upon the adverse Party. In fine the Muscovites, tyred, and vexed by a forraigne Rule, rejecting Vladeslaus, whom they had former­ly chosen, elected a new Emperour, and endeavoured to compose their dif­ference with Sigismund, but in vain; for, they were chased away from before Smolensko, and payed for their perfidie.

Now the King of great Britaine, being the spectatour, and very often the Arbitratour, of the Controversies of his Neighbours, lived in peace, and his subjects of the Romane Catholik Profession, were reduced to some di­scresse, upon the discovery of that abominable conspiracy,The son in England dis­covered. against him, his children, and the whole Parliament. For it seemed not enough to ex­tend [Page 59]the punishment upon the guilty, who received it according to their m [...]rit; but all the whole body of them also, mast be made feel it. It was then, that the doctrine of the Iesuites was carped, and reviled, and their Or­der brought into horrour, through the whole Island; as it was in France, upon the death of Henry the great, though yet they could not be convinced, of ha­ving any hand in that, as they evidently were in this. But what shall we say of the English Puritans, whom King Iames himself accused, of having at­tempted to stifle him, in his Mothers womb? I know, there are also some, who make the Iesuites the cause of the Tragicall death of King Charles; so great an aversion hath the contrary party, from this Society. I neither accuse, nor excuse any, but onely make a plaine, and simple relation, of what is pas­sed, and blame the rash judgement, of such as are too passionate.

Whilest other Kings were in extream jealousie of their interests, King Iames amuses himself with playing the Philosopher, and the Divine, by composing books of controversies against Cardinall Perronn, and Monsieur de Coeffetean, Bishop of Marseilles. And since he had no warr with any body else, he raised one, against the Puritans, and the Iesuites; as making decla­mations against them both, and their Doctrine; which he said, was most pernicious, to the Potentates of Europe. Take heed, my son, (sayes he, in his Book intitled, the Roy all Present) of these Puritans; meer Plagues both in the Church and state; a race not to be obliged by any benefit, nor tied by any Oath, or promise; breathing nothing, but seditions, and calumnies. And a little lower. You will not finde, amongst any High-way Robbers, more ingrati­tude, or more lyes, and perjuries, then amongst these Fanatick Spirits, &c. The Duke of Savoy demanded his Daughter Elizabeth, for his eldest Son, and offered him his for the Prince of Wales: but in regard of the difference of Religions, it was honourably refused. Fate had reserved this Princesse for Prince Frederick, Palatine of the Rheyn, who arriving in England, Frederick, Prince Pala­tine marries Elizabeth Princesse of England. married her, and carried her to the Palatinat, through Holland, where they were recei­ved, and regaled all along their passage, being accompanied by Prince Maurice, as far as Colein, 1614.

The never sufficiently lamented death of Henry the great, one of the bra­vest Princes that ever wore the Crown of France, was like to put Paris, and all France into great tumults, for the prevention whereof, the Queen-Mother was declared Regent of the Kingdome, and Lewis the thirteenth succeeded him, at the age of nine yeers, being consecrated at Rheims; and all this great preparation for war, was dissipated, either because the Kings design was not known; or else, to say better, because it could not be executed, except the reserve of ten thousand men, who were sent into the Dutchy of Gulick, under the command of Marshal de la Cateres, as we have lately expressed.

Now, some time after all these embroiles, and perturbations, both in Bo­hemia, and Austria, were past; the Emperour Rodolph, either through vexa­tion and trouble, or otherwise,Death of the Emperour Ro­dolph the twentieth of January. 1612. (for death hath alwayes a cause) departed out of this fraile life, to the immortall one. He was son to that good Em­perour Maximilian, whose steps he followed. He was a lover of sciences, and chiefly of the Art of Painting. He passed his time much in distilling, he was fearfull, and by consequence little undertaking, and little feared by his ene­mies; who knowing his nature, did many things to the diminution of the Imperial Authority. He died at Pragut, in the year 1612. upon the 20^th. of Ianuary. The Empire had no need of a distillator, but rather of a good Operatour, to act powerfully, against the ill plants, which cast forth strong roots, both under him, and his successour, and which have given so much pains, and troubles to the Empire.

CHAP. XIV

Chules Duke of Sudermain, and afterwards King of Swe­den, sends an Embassadour into Holland. CHarles Duke of Sudermaine took the Crown away from Sigismund his Nephew, and possessed his States quietly enough: but there rose a huge warre between him, and the King of Denmark, who very much disturbed his rest, and whereof (in his complaint of King Christian) he takes the Jesu­its for the Authors. They are the Atlases, who must bear upon their shoulders all kinds of Calummes, and Detractions: They must swallow down the faults of others. He had had many conflicts with the Polanders, and had tried the va­rious effects of Fortune: But this of Denmark touched him so much to the quick, that they two came from complaints, to brawles and reproaches; and thence to the lye: yea, and at last to desie one another. A strange thing, that men disapprove in others, what they do themselves. Charles a little before, had sent an Embassadour to the States-General, to beseech them to make a close Allyance with him, against his Nephew, the Spaniards, and the Jesuits (for it was upon them, that he chiefly aymed, and whom he so much mistrusted, who yet peradventure, dreamt not at all of him) and demanded a speedy succour, before the Poles had quite subdued Muscovie. He also mentioned the quarrell between him and the King of Denmark, offering to referre it to them, or any other Neutrall Princes, and to acquiesce in their Deci­sion. The States also sent theirs to him, but he was able to effect nothing with him.

The King de­clares a warre upon him. In the moneth of April, 1611. King Christian declares a Warre, founded upon four points: The first, upon the Fishing of Lapponia, or Lapland, the third part whereof he pretended to appertain to himself. The second, a com­plaint, formed upon Charles his having fortified Guttemburgh, to the disad­vantage of the Sound: the third, was the redemanding of the Isle of Oesel, held by the Swedes: And the last, that Christian would not suffer him, to put in his Arms, the three Crownes, nor the Title of Lapland, and North-land. Kings have never any better reason to make Warre, then that which is offered them by occasion. It is a Royal thing (sayes a Disciple of that so much disclaimed Ita­lian) to attempt the Possessions of others.

Colmar taken. The Danes seazed Colmar, the prime key of the kingdom of Sweden, and besieged the Castle, both by Sea and land; which, unlesse it were famished, was held impregnable, by reason of the situation: Neither was it taken now by that way; but yeelded up by the levity of the Governour, who went to fix his habitation in Denmark. That which cannot be digged by Iron, is often done by Gold,

The King of Sweden found work enough to do, with two so potent enemies upon his skirts; but that which most troubled him was, that he could not bring the Danes to any Composition,Fonce. so that in sine, having lost Colmar, with above a hundred pieces of Canon, six ships of Warre, the Isle of Bornholm, and some other,The death of Charles. also forced to bow to old age, and afflictions (caused by these losses) he fell sick, and coming to die, made way for that great Captaine Gustavus Adolphus, the very relation of whose victories makes the world tremble.

Charles was a Prince of great courage, and lover of his Law, for the only defence whereof, the Swedes affirm, that he accepted the Crown; and not through any ambition he had to be a King. He inclined a little towards the Reformates, and could not endure to have prayers made in Latin. He was speechlesse some time before his death, and was much more prone to rigour, then moderation; yea, even to Tyranny it self; which is a vice much observed in the successours of Erick, after they are past forry years old.

The Danes, sayling with the winde in poupe, took many ships near Els­burgh, together with the Castle it self. But the Swedes were fully revenged upon them, by taking their measures well, as it will appear in the continua­tion of this History. With patience all things are effected. In fine,Peace made. a Peace was made, and Colmar, upon agreement, of some barrels of Gold, restored to the Swedes: The Kings were friends, and afterwards an Enterview, and an Al­lyance both Offensive, and Defensive, concluded against the King of Poland. But let us go back to the South.

Italy produced no seed of sedition at all, every one keeping himself within his own jurisdiction; but the Duke of Mantua being taken out of his by death, without sons, his Brother succeeded him; who, assisted by the Spaniards, waged a long warre against the Duke of Savoy, who was suppor­ted by France.

Since the Truce in the Low-countries, and the expulsion of the Mores, there passed nothing in Spain worthy of memory, but some Fights at Sea, against Pirats, who were defeated by the Spaniards, and the Hollanders.

The match sought in Spain. Queen Mary of Medicis, willing to keep her subjects in Peace, during her Regencie, and prevent all occasions of disorder, mediated a double match with Spain; that is, of her Son, and Daughter, with Prince Philip, and the Infanta, his Sister; but the marriages were differred, in regard of their too tender age; though yet, this good newes caused great rejoycing through­out all the Territories of the two Crowns, with Tilts, and Turnaments, worth anmiration; wherein the French Lords expressed as well the agility, and fine disposition of their bodies, as the gentilnesse of their mindes.

Let us now draw back to the Low-countries again, which observe the Truce; but let not their souldiers rest, in favour of their Neighbours. For, the Dukes of Brandenburgh, and Newburgh (this being grown a Roman, and that a Reformat) renewed their old unhappy quarrel; either for want of a right and mutual understanding, or else for being the object of the ambitious passion of some other Princes. The Arch-Duke had sent Spinola into the Field, to execute the sentence given upon them of Aquisgrane, Aix or Aquis­grane yeelds. The Spaniards succour the Duke of New­burgh, and the Hollanders, the Duke of Bran­denburgh. who had incurred the disfavour of the Emperour, by expelling the Roman Catholick Magistrates out of the Town; and their sudden submission, gave the Spaniards conve­niency to hasten to the relief of the Duke of Newburgh, by whom they were expected. They took Wesel, and some other small places; and Prince Mau­rice on the other side, who was sent by the States to succour the Electour, took and fortified Emmerick, and Rees. It is most dangerous, to have a Neigh­bour stronger then ones self; for his succour is alwayes dammageable, to him who accepts it. These two Princes know it, as well as any others. But what? Passion very often prevailes over Reason, and the errour of the Hunters, gives the Hare opportunity to escape. But let us reprize this Webbe contrived of many threds of different colours, and woven by divers Weavers. The Emperors Au­thority proving inefficacious, and his threats, as it wore, our of breath, and saint, (as coming from so great a distance) with these two Princes; who proud of the assistance of two Kings, and shouldered by a strong Common-Wealth, equally shared the Government of the Dutchy, for some time, ma­king their Residence together at Dusseldorp. But, by means of some small jea­lousies, were quickly disunited; and the Marriage of the Duke of Newburgh, [Page 62]with the Duke of Bavaria's Sisters, awakened as great suspicions, in the Duke of Brandenburghs breast (being a Reformate) as the Allyance of the uni­ted Provinces, in that of the Duke of Newburgh, who was become Cathohok. The Design upon Dusseldorp, had no successe; and that which was so pro­sperously executed upon Gulick, by the Governours meanes, manifested to the Arch-Duke (a peacefull Prince) that the Reformates in a fair occasion, want no boldnesse, no courage. The Spaniards took the Allarme so much the more powerfully, as the Treaties went on slowly, and as the French seem­ed to favour the Duke of Brandenburgh, more, to put an obstacle to the Arms of Spain, then for any other consideration. Brief, the Army marches into the Field, under the conduct of Spinola. Aix, or Aquisgrane stooped, and the Romane Catholick Magistrates were re-established. Mullem was batte­red down, and Otroy taken; besides many othes places, where there was no Garrison of the united Provinces, for fear of a breach. The taking of We­sel, seemed to countervail that of Gulick; swelled the hearts of the Spaniards, and made those people know, that their Masters should have but a seeming Government, as long as these puissant forces stayed in their States. But if they had relyed upon the judgement of the Emperour, it is likely, that these misfortunes had not happened. At that troublesome and vexatious Treaty of Santen, all the Princes layd open their Interests, the Leaven of partialities about. Religions began to swell, the Deputies went away discontented, lea­ving the Businesse imperfect, the occupated Townes retained their Ghests, and the two Princes learnt (to their own cost) what many other had tryed before them.

CHAP. XV

THE Peace without the united Provinces, had shut up many turbulent and seditious humours within them; which not being able to get out, hatched some very dangerous tumults.Commotions in the united Pro­vinces. The precious names of Peace and Rest, were both odious, and insupporatable to them. We often flye from that, which is advantageous to us, and follow that, which is hurtfull. The first was at Al [...]mar, the second at Liewerden; and the third, and most perilous, at Ʋtrick, where some of the bolder sort of the Mutiners, fortified by a huge crew of their Caball, constrained the Magistrates to abdicate their charges, and chose others in their places; who were most of them, the Heads of their sedition. But this sicknesse requiring a more violent remedy, then the first Lepitives, and the Town threatned with a siege, all grew to be appeased, and the Gar­rison augmented.

Disputes about Predestination. Yet this was nothing, in respect of that mischief which arose, from a con­troversie in Divinity concerning Predestination, and some other Articles an­nexed to it; which, like a thick Fogge, so blinded all the Inhabitants, that it left not any use of light at all to any, but to such as served themselves there­of, to the [...] own profit. The two Champions, who by their Sermons, and Disputes, divided all Holland into two Factions, were Arminins and Goma­rus. Such as followed this latter, who ardently maintained the said Prede­stination, were called Contra-Remonstrancers; and the other, Remonstrancers, [Page 63]of Arminians, who were said to professe a Doctrine, disagreeing from that of John Calvin. This was too high, and difficult a passage to be comprehended by the common people, and so it brought with it nothing but confusion. Yet, the Dispute ended not with the life of Arminins, but was more and more kindled by his Disciples, and chiefly by Verstius; who, upon the Recom­mendation of the Remonstrancers, was made Professou [...]. From Disputes, came Factions, and Vorstius was deposed, by the threats of the King of Great Britain. In brief, every one takes arms, for his own defence. They of Harlem, Leiden, and Ʋtrick, by the counsell (as was reported) of Advocate Harnaveldt, raise forces, Prince Maurice hastens, surprises Vtrick, disarnis the Citizens, and changes the Magistrates (a remarkably action) as he also did, at Harlem, and Leiden (where they had barricaded the Town-House) and im­prisons the chief of the Arminian Faction. But the Ministers, notwithstanding all these proceedings, ceased not to dispute, not the Printers to set forth Books, concerning this controversie. Wherefore, there was a Synod convocated at Dort, where the Arminian Doctrine was condemned; the Ministers who per­sisted in it, imprisoned, and some were banished, and sought their abode in Holstein, and other places.

Barnaveldt beheaded. The great States-man Barnaveldt, formerly much cherished by King Henry of France, and greatly renowned for his services done to the Common-Wealth (and chiefly for having drawne out of the clutches of the English, the three places engaged to Queen Elizabeth, as also for having made di­vers Embassies, and sweated under various burthens of State) finished his life by an infamous punishment. This man, being about seventy two yeares old, was accused of being Head of the Arminian Faction; of disturbing the tranquility of the Townes, and checking the authority of the Prince; whose power he wished indeed, to see lessened, thereby to secure the publick Liber­ty. In sine, there was a rumour scattered, that he should have had a design to usurp the Government of the Common-wealth. They who were of his party, for proof of his innocence, represented the greatnesse of his services and cares, to maintain the power of the States. And yet howsoever, all his friends, melted (as it were) like snow before the Sun, of the Princes Autho­rity: and one of the most famous Writers of this Age, sayes, that he was condemned in the name of the States, but by the practices of King James, and Prince Maurice. There is nothing sure in this world, and the greatest for­tunes, are very often those, which are upon the slippery top of their prac [...]pice. If all they, who are ambitious to go out of their condition, to get up to another more clevated, and high, would but represent to themselves, the disasters and misfortunes, which we see fall upon those great persons; they would have no other desire, then to stay where they are. The Treaty of the Truce, which by his advice, was made for twelve years, against the reasons of Prince Manrice (who being a souldier, and for his own interest, endeavoured to break it) purchased his disfavour; and his very great credit, his hatred be­sides his disswading the Warre of Bohemia, together with what we have just now said, and many other accusations, abbreviated his life for some dayes. When Jupiter chides, all the rest of the Gods are silens.

Hugo Grotius, went to keep company with the other Ministers, who were prisoners at Louwestein, though by the prudent cousel of his Wife, he brake quickly off from it afterwards.

Thus, was this mist, which threatened the Common-wealth with a dan­gerous convulsion, dispelled; the Churches employed by the Contra-Remon­strancers only; and the Arminians reviled, and disclaimed, as no better then half Traytors, by the very dregs of the People. But really, the blamable treason of the children of Barnaveldt, who breathed nothing but revenge of their Fathers death, was the cause why many retired themselves [Page 64]from this Party, which, for a time was much discredited.

It King Iames, on the one side, ardently prosecuted his destruction: King Lewis sollicited his deliverance as hotly on the other: and would scarce give ear to the multitude of excuses, which was brought by the Embassadours, for so passionate an execution. Howsoever, all these changes, were not able to change the happinesse of these Provinces; the popular Tumults, growing by little and little to slacken, to the great good of the whole Country.

But now, the women had also a minde to shew, that they likewise knew how to handle their arms, and gave an experiment thereof at Delpft, about some Imposts, or Taxes, where they so stoutly assailed the Town-House, that it was nec [...]ssitated to send for both Souldiers, and Counsell from the Hag [...]e, to make them retire to the distaffe. Perhaps, there were amongst these, some of them, who had beaten the Franciscan Friers out of their Cloyster: so great a reputation of courage have the good wives of D [...]lft. And these are all the perturbations, and whatsoever else of note, happened in the confede­rated Provinces, during the Truce.

Before we contrive our Discourse of the Warres of Germany, we will re­turn a little towards France, which is the kingdom, where Fortune, by her various effects of mutability, seems rather to have established the Empyre, then elsewhere. The nature of the Germans is such, as not to suffer them­selves so easily to be induced to take arms; for it costs much trouble, to bring them to it, and they walk with leaden heels: but having once taken them up, they lay them not down, till they be able to bear them no longer, and till all be brought to the extremity of desolation. But the French, on the other side, both easily take them up, and more easily lay them down; in such sort, as their Warres are very often finished, and pacified, before it be knowne, that they were in arms. After the consecration, or unction of King Lewis, during the six first years of his reign, there were rather Tu­mults, then Wars. The Malcontent; the Complaints as well of the Princes, as of the H [...]genots; their ill-grounded distrusts, and jealousies, exercised the mind of that great Queen; who dissipated their bad designes, sometimes with money, and augmentation of Pensions, and new Governments; and some­times also, by making them exactly observe the Edict of Nantes; an interest, which the said Prinoes are accustomed to take, during the minority of their Kings; so to adde to their own power, what they take away, from that of their Master. The Moon, and the Starres, endeavour to weaken the light of the Sun, by borrowing a part thereof of him. But that which is to be la­mented, is, that all this is done at the charge of the poor people. In effect, the great care of this wise Queen, dispelled many mists, and no lesse preser­ved the kingdom for her son; then the succeeding Ministers, who have la­boured to augment it. France, having smothered with the blood of the Mar­quis d' Ancre, all the grievances, both of the Princes and people, saw like­wise the end of that,The troubles in France appea­sed. which the Prince of Conde gave the King, by the obsta­cles which he was resolved to put, to the confirmation of his marriage.

The Duke of Guise conducted the young Princesse of France, to the Con­fines of Spain, and reconducted the Infanta of Spain; and the Prince of France was lodged in the Battail. The Constable Luynes became the subject of a new Commotion, and his great favour, the object of hatred, to some Gran­dees, who absented themselves from the Court, under pretext of defending the Queen-Mother; who was extremely exasperated against Luynes, for that he being the Counsellour, of the ruine of the Marshall d' Ancre, had ta­ken possession of his Place, and gotten his spoyles; and so she retired her self to Angonlesine, to be secured by the Duke d' Espernon. Now this fire, being kindled, by the just disgust of an afflicted Queen, begot an opinion, that it would be scattered through all France. For men began to be active and busie [Page 65]already, as well at Metz, as within the very middle of the kingdom: and the motion being in a fronteer Town, gave cause to fear, lest, perhaps, stran­gers might put themselves into the dance. For the Duke d' Espernon depar­ted from Metz, to go serve the Queen-Mother, to whom he was reconci­led, by the common necessity of an equall Banishment: The Nobility, and the Armies, began already to march, all was full of fear, and fury; and such as loved novelty,The Prince of Conde. leapt already for joy. But the King, assisted by the Counsell of the first Prince of the Blood, (who was now reconciled to him) instantly seased upon the Castle, and Town of Caen, went and beat the Queenes Troops, before the Malcontents joyned with theirs and reduced them all to a necessity of submitting to his Grace. From thence, he conducted his Army into Bearne, Reduction of Bearne. and by his presence, effected that in few dayes, upon the Ministers, and chief of that Country, which the Edict of the year 1617. had not been able to obtain.

He reduced the whole Province under his obedience, re-established the Exercise of the Roman Catholick Religion; rendered the Ecclesiasticall Benefices, put other Garrisons into the places of strength: and four months after, returned to Paris, where he was received with an universal applause, though he left behind him, an immortall disgust, amongst the most zea­lous of the Hugenot party, by the re-establishment of a Religion (without striking stroake) which in sixty years before, was not so much as knowne there, but by calumnies and reproaches, and matter also for a new warre, with such stomack, and animosity, as wanted nothing but the occasion, to draw the sword.

The Marriage of the Lady Christine of France, with the Duke of Savoy. In the mean time, the Cardinal of Savoy, arrives at Court, to thank the King, for the care he had vouchsafed to take, of the preservation of his Fa­thers Dominions; as also to mediate a Match, of the Lady Christine of France, with his eldest Brother. He was made very welcom, and obtained, in fine, a favourable grant, of all he demanded. We will now give to the Hugenots of France, leasure to study a way, to revenge themselves, of so sen­sible a displeasure, and stop the King, from getting thenceforth any so great successe, as might encrease their diffidence, and bring a detriment upon their Religion. Let us now pass on to a Warre, of much more horrour, and larger extent; for we can no longer forbear, it being high time to speak of it; we cannot, I say, withdraw our selves, it furnishing us with matter enough to believe, that the Age wherein we live, is the most unhappy of all Ages; yea, the very sink, and last of all.

CHAP. I

I Abhor, to begin the discourse, of the longest, and most cruell Warr, that ever was in Christendome, and which drew more blood, more altered the Christian Faith, and caused more ruine and deso­lation, then all that ever were in Europ. Let no man tell me, of the Exploits of Atilas, with his Huns, for he did but passe like lightning. Let there be no comparison made, of the Warts of the Goths, Visigoths, Daces, and Vandals, who came altogether, to dismember the Romane Empire, and the Franks, and Burgundians, who drove the Romanes out of Gawl. For these People, ha­ving expelled the old Usurpers, by the successe of a battel, or two; leagued themselves forth with, with them whom they had freed from the yoke, and instantly laid the foundations, of a new Kingdome. But this Warr, which we are now going to describe, involved all Europ; and there is not so much as one Province, which doth not resent it; yea, that which is more deploreable, is, that we see not the end of it yet; for, for my part, I am of opinion, in this wicked age, Men will sooner be wanting, then Will, to such as are ambitious, to continue this bloody exercise.

The Prodigies, which both went before it, and happened during the con­tinuance of it, like waves of the sea, have two much informed us, that it would ingulf all the Provinces of Christendome, one after another, and such as thought to be exempted from it, as well for the advantages they had upon their enemies, as for the impossibility of introducing the Babes of Mars amongst them, by reason of their situation; feel, at present, the scourge, with as much sharpnesse, as the former.

That facall Torch, which appeared towards the end of the year 1618, with a long, and formidable tayle, seemed to announce to us the wrath of [Page 67]God; thereby to prepare us to repentance, or else patiently to suffer the evils, which we could not avoid. Those sights, which were seen in the ayre,Prodigies hap­ned in Europe. in many places, those Tempests, those exundations of Rivers, those disru­ptions, or shiverings of Barrs, by the mercilesse Ocean; those earthquakes, and inundations, those monstrous Productions, those waters turned into blood, those impetuous windes, which have overthrown so many Towers, and rooted up so many trees; those bloody raines, and so many other super­naturall accidents, are the messengers of Divine indignation, to such as are obstinate in their wickednesse. Fools, who say in their hearts, there is no God, have despised these advertisements, and lead a life, worse then that, of the people, of the time of Noah.

Germany, by a Peace of so many yeers durance, being grown extreamly o­pulent, the Princes potent, and the Towns much elevated;The State of Germany. began to withdraw herself, by little and little, if not wholy from servitude, yet at least, from duty. The Courts were full of debaucheries, and the excesse of drinking, was recompensed, with a Crown of victorie; the Tables loaden with meat,The debawches were sometimes overturned, with brutall insolence; and that, which could not possibly bring any good, was, that the greatest part of the Grandees there, left the management of their affaires, to their Chancelours, or their Favour­ites, whilest themselves were plunging in delights, luxurie, ranting, and su­perfluities, together with the pleasures of the Court, and the Chase. The Emperour Matthias, who was Crowned in the year, 1612, made not his Authority in the Empire, shine a whit brighter then his Predecessours had done; in such sort, as that the State wasfallen (as it were) into a Palsie, and languishment.

Not withstanding all these voluptuousnesses, and debauches, distrusts were grown so high, that it was impossible, for the Banks or Damns, to stop these Torrents, without letting some part of them loose. The chil­dren were then matching in Troops, and Bands, through the streets, with Arms, Drums, and Colours; and the old men sighing and crying out,Prognosticati­ons of Warrs. We shall quickly feel the effects, of a cruell Warr. That, which arrived at Donawerds, brought some of the imperiall Townes to a league, to which they invited the Electour of Saxonie; but not receiving so good an answer as they hoped, threats remained without effect, and all stayed in apparent enmity (the one party casting the fault upon the other) till the occasions which we are going to recount. But let us enter upon the War of Bohemia.

Bohemia, is a little Kingdom, but very fertill, in Corn, Wine, Mines of Gold, Silver, Tinne, and all which is necessary for the life of man. The King is ranged in the number of the Electours; and his Vote, or suffrage, is so necessary, that when the Parties are equall, he who receives it, is elevated to the Imperiall Throne. This said Kingdome, is almost quite invironed by Germany; and it stretches, on the one side, to Moravia. The Inhabitants speak the language of Slavonia, though yet the High-Dutch be as common there, as the French is, in the Low-Countries. The Metropolitan City is Prague, which is watered by the stream of Moldaw. The Country is very great, most populous, and adorned with a most famous, and most an­cient University, wherein, for a time, were numbered above thirty thousand Scholars. Now, because the first controversies about Religion, which caused the separations, and hatreds amongst Christians, proceeded from thence; it will not be out of our way, and much for the contentment of the Reader, to take notice of the source, and Origin thereof. About the year of Grace 1400. John Huss, having found, and read the Books of W [...]tcliff, John Huss. betook him­self publickly, to teach a doctrine much like that of the Waldenses, condemn­ed by the Church of Rome, as much checking the Points, and Tenets there­of received: as namely, the authority of the Pope, Purgatory, Worship of Ima­ges, [Page 68]and the like; God permitting a diversity of Doctrines, during the Schismes of the Church: for the disputes of the Popes, gave subject, to attack the Points of Faith, exhibited by them, and their own Authority.

The Councell of Constance. A Councell was assembled at Constance, whether Jerome of Prague, and John Huss, were invited, under a safe conduct, or passe, from the Emperour Si­gismond: But for all that they persisted in the Doctrine of Witcliff, and maintain­ed, that the Churches diffused up and down the world, were deviated from the traditions of the Apostles; they were both contrary to publick Faith, and the Emperours Paste, given them, sentenced to be burned, and their ashes cast into the ayre. And from thence came the Axiome, so often and so justly chanted, and iterated, by the Protestants, and whereof they serve themselves to quicken their distrusts. Faith must not be kept with Hereticks.

The Fathers of the said Councell, were moved on by a too inconsiderate, yea, and unjust zeal; which (if we may have leave, to deduce the conse­quence of the effects thereof which have followed) very much displeased the Father of Truth. The Romane Catholicks disprove of this Maxime, and the Emperour, Charles the 5^th. expressed, that he was no friend to it, by keep­ing his word so truly, w^th Doctor Martin Luther, at the Assembly at Wormes.

The disciples of John Huss [...]ake arms. Now, the disciples of the aforesaid John Huss, being very impatient at the death of their Masters, and not content with the Churches which were granted them, took arms, under pretext of desiring more. But I find the zeal of all them, who have withdrawn themselves from the Church of Rome, and taken up their Quarters apart, to be very different from that of the Pri­mitive Christians, amongst the Pagans, and Gentiles, those remaining in the Predicament of Passion onely; and these, adding also that of Action. True it is, that ambition, and desire of novelty both in the one and other State, have been the efficient causes of these great changes. If they, who have cried out with a loud voice, for the reformation of manners, had been heard, as well as they, who have called in doubt many Maximes of Faith; we should really now live in the Golden, and not in the Iron Age.

They assault the Images. Zisca tames Bohemia. The first warr they made, was upon the Images, the Prelates, the Cloi­sters, and the Magistrates, who opposed their unbridled licentiousnesse. A Truce was made, and no sooner made, then broken. Zisca that famous Head of the Faction, made himself Master of Bohemia, and commanded all the Churches dedicated to the Saints, to be battered down; alleadging for his reason, that they must be consecrated onely to God. He defeated all the Armies, that oppugned his Designes; like a Torrent, which carries a­way, and destroyes all, whiles Fate made him loose that one eye, which was left him. He marched into Austria, and quite blinde as he was, left not ne­vertheless to crush his Enemies; and arrived time enough to chastize the Citi­zens of Prague, who were revolted from him, because of the demolition of the Churches, and Ima [...]es. In fine, Fortune by an occult mystery of the great God, averted the Prelates, from their duty, and humbled the Emperour so far, as to bring him upon his knees, before this blind man; yea, and con­strained him moreover, to offer him the Government of the Kingdom, and the Militia. But that Eternall power, having served himself sufficiently of this scourge, drew him out of the world, by a contagious sicknesse; though even at his death,His death. he signified his martiall humour, and the passion he yee had, to further mischief; for he commanded, that after his decease a Drum should be made of his skin, saying, that his enemies would fly, at the very sound thereof. Let Divines discourse upon these mysterious chances, where they will finde work enough to entertaine themselves.

The Hussits continued the warr, under the orders of a certain person cal­led Procope, at the very report of whom, whole armies were suddainely ter­rified; yea, fourty thousand men, being entered into Bohemia, and having [Page 69]taken some towns; through a certain panick, or phantastical fright, threw down their arms, and betook themselves to their heels,Zisca's skin works miracles to save their infamous an I cowardly lives, even before the Bohemians appeared. Perhaps Zisca's skin wrought all these miracles, and would have merited a Temple, if he had not demolished those, which were dedicated to the Saints. It is therefore no won­der, if in this last Age, there have hapned such strange changes, proceeding from causes so little foreseen, or wholy contemptible; in regard that a hand­full of men at that time, rendered themselves Masters of a Kingdome, and beat the forces of the Emperour, as often as they durst encounter them: be­sides that their meer reputation, put their enemies to flight, as much as their arms, Athists, open your eyes, & confess, these changes proceed from an infinite power

The Turks, a barbarous, and despicable people, have subdued a great part of Asia, and destroyed the empire of Greece. Tamberlaine, from a shepherd,Tamberlaine. be­ing become a souldier, was the instrument, whereof God served himself, to abate the pride, of that great Emperour Bajazet. These are revolutions, the reasons whereof are not discovered to man. It is lawfull to seek the causes of them by probable conjectures; but not to pronounce a definitive sentence, or conclusi­on upon them. I was willing to relate a part of this History, because I find there­in, a great similitude or resemblance, with that of our Age, as well in order to Causes, and effects (though not successes) for a proof, of this instability, of the things of this world.

CHAP. II. The Bohemians arme, and why? All the Princes interest themselves in this Warr. Ferdinand chosen Emperour.

NOtwithstanding the licence granted to the Bohemians, by the Fathers of the Councell of Basill, to receive their Communion under two Forms, or Species; there ceased not still, to be Factions amongst them, against the au­thority of the Pope, and favour to such as oppugned it.

Now, because the greatest Rivers draw their Origin, for the most part, from some small, abstruse, and unknown springs; just so, this deplorable war of Bohemia, which being once kindled, and diffused, in that Kingdome, grew to skatter, and sly up and down like wilde fire, throughout all Europ, and is not extinguished even yet, began at first, from so contemptible a spark, as might have been quenched by one single tear, had it but chanced to fall right upon it; But it must needs draw deluges of blood, and general destruction of Chri­stendom. Where Sins are great, Repentance must be proportionable.

And why? In the year 1616, the Hussits layd the foundations of a Church, at Bru­naw: The Abbor, who was Lord of the Place, opposed them, and complain­ed to the Emperour Mathias; who commanded the Magistrates to ap­pear before him, and to suspend the building, till the Cause were decided; but in vain, for the Church went on, and was finished, without answer; as if it had suffised, that it pleased them, who loved novelty, to build it.

Whilest this passed, Mathias, finding himself without issue; by the consent of the House of Austria, adopted his Cousin Ferdinand, and Crowned him King of Bohemia, with the general applause of the Bohemians. Which done, it was shewed to the abovesaid Hussits, that the States onely had power, and authority to build Churches; and so they were all condemned; and such as presumed to resist, imprisoned, and their Church demolished. And this was the first motive of this war; and this the leaven, which hidden, for two years together, under the Past of ambition, of the chief of that Kingdom, made it rise, and sharpen so much, as that there was nothing expected, but onely the hour to put it in the oven.

The Lutherans Jubily. The year following, the Lutherans by way of a generall thanks giving to God, for having already preserved their Religion the space of an hundred yeares, made a Iubily; as they also did some Leagues, amongst themselves at Heilbron, against the Roman Catholicks, which proved advantageous to the Bohernians, as seeming (as it were) to give them the Signe, or Watch-word, to which all their humours were disposed and prepared: for in regard that after so many Books composed, and so many Disputes held, there could be no Accord made, in matter of Religion; there seemed a necessity, to try the strength of their Arms,All tends to Warre. and come from words to blowes. The demolition of the aforesaid Church, was of hard digestion to the Hussits, and so it cau­sed murmurations, Monopolies, or private Conspiracies: and in fine, open seditions. The Emperour being busie, about the Coronation of his Cousin, caused his Embassadours to rebuke the priucipall of them; as namely, the President Slauata, Iarislae Bazite, and Philip Platore; who, without the know­ledge or consent of his Imperial Majesty, had convocated such an Assembly. But they having (having by-like forgotten the rank and quality they held, or else desiring warre) fell upon these persons, who were sacred by their Commissions, tumbled them down from the top of a Tower through the windowes, expelled the Iesuits, dismissed the Kings Officers from their char­ges (which was to attack both Church, and State) and took up arms, a­gainst all such, as should endeavour to impugne this insolent kind of pro­ceeding.

The Emperour labouring, both by Letters, and fair Propositions to remedy these disorders, was already gone very farre in it, and it is likely would have accomplished it, had not the despaire of some, withdrawne the most moderate persons amongst them, from continuing the Work. But in the interim,De [...]th of the Emperour Ma­thias. the Emperour died, leaving it to Ferdinand, to untangle this in­rricate, and troublesome bottome. This Prince had worne the Imperiall Crown about six hundred yeares; he had sometime governed the Low-countries, though with small authority, but as it were only by form, and more in title, then in effect: He was religious and gentle, and beloved by all such, as loved the peace and quiet of the Empyre.

Ferdinand elected limpe­rom. Now the Electours met at Frankefurt, and chose Ferdinand to bear the most illustrious, but most painfull burthen of the whole Universe. And therefore let us see him go, weakly enough accompanied, to finish the War of Bohemia; the cause and pretexts whereof we have already demonstrated. The Bohemians, under the Counts, de la Tour, and Mansfield (Natural sonne to Count Ernest, so well know in the Low-countries) raised very puissant Armies, contemn Ferdinands Remonstrances, deprive him of the Crown, as a Tyrant (For such are all they, whom powerful factions have a mind to suppresse) give out, that he was not lawfully Elected; and fortify themselves with Al­liances, and succours. On the other side, the Pope, Italy, Spain, and Poland, will not suffer Ferdinand to perish;The beginning of the warre. whereof he seemed to be in imminent dan­ger by this tempest, without speedy relief; for his ship leakes on every side, and the wind of this Conjuration will infallibly sink both him, and the Catholick Religion with him, if he be abandoned by his Allyes. The Arch-Duke Albert sends him the Count de Bucquoy, attended by the flower of the Walloon, and Luxemburgh Gentry.

Of Bohemia. The Bohemians, though amazed to see so many potent States interest them­selves in the preservation of Ferdinand, lose not their courage, and resolve to adde politick craft,The Wectour Pal [...]time cho­sen by the States of Bo­hemia. to open force. They draw to their party the Silesians, and Moravians, keep their Intelligences in Austria, and all Germany; present the Crown to the Duke of Saxony, and then to the Duke of Bavaria, though with visible dissimulation, and refusable conditions; and last of all, to Fre­derick Prince Palatine, who by the advice of some Lords (who yet basely de­serted [Page 71]him afterwards) accepted it. Since he had married the Daughter of a King, he might very take a Crown, which was so freely offered him, and so he was Crowned, with his Sonne, at Prague.

CHAP. III. The prosecution of the War of Bohemia. The battail of Prague. Frederick flyes, and forsakes the Towne, together with his People.

THus, we see the Match made, and the Game a playing, between Ferdi­nand, and Frederick, the House of Austria, and the Palatin, and the Christians divided. For, almost all the Roman Catholicks, either in incli­nation, or effect, espowsed the Party of Ferdinand; and all the Reformates, and the most zealous Lutherans, that of Frederick. These, after their prayers to God for the defence of the Gospel; and those, to the same Authour of all good, and to all the Saints, for that of the Church. The King of France was sollicited by both parties; but he contented himself, with sending thither the Duke of Angoulesme, to mediate a reconciliation. Let us note here, such as declared themselves for King Frederick. The united Provinces of the Low-countries, by the sollicitation of Prince Maurice, who disposed the States to this Alliance, contrary to the opinion of Barnavelds, who wished them was not to meddle at all with it. And it is held, that this opposition of Barnaveldts, so greatly offended the Prince, that he ever afterwards, looked upon him as his enemy; and so at length, it grew to be partly, the cause of his fall. It is alwayes dangerous to cheok the Grandees, and to crack nuts with them. Christian, Duke of Anholt; John Frederick, Duke of Win [...]bergh; Maurice, Landgrave of Hassia; John Ernest, Marquis of Ansbach, and some Im­perial Towns also; together with the people of England: for the King could never be induced to help his Son in Law, alleadging that he had no right to the Crown.

For Ferdinand, besides the aforementioned Allyes, were leagued the Dukes of Saxony, and Bavaria; together with the Ecclesiastical Electours, Souldiers were listed every where, and the Rendezvous, Bohemia; the Theater of this fatall warre. The principall Heads, were the Duke of Bavaria, with Mon­sieur de Tilly, his Lieutenant Generall; the Count de Bucquoy, and Generall Dampiere: On the other side, the Duke of Anhok, the Counts de la Tour, and Mansfieldt. Now these latter being sooner prepared then the other, and having subjugated almost all Bohemia; marched into Austria, and besieged the Emperour in Vienna. Bucquoy hastens thither, routs Mansfeldt, Vienna besie­ged. Mansfeldt beaten. and for­ces La Tour to raise the siege. Dampiere enters the City with the Horse, in­tending to chastise the insolence of the Citizens towards the Emperour their Master, who yet vouchsafed to pardon them.

The Count de la Tour faced about, and marched towards the Capitall City of the kingdom, to divert the storm which threatened it. But, in fine, after some encounters favourable to the Emperour, and the Duke of Bava­ria, being entered with his Army into Bohemia, and having reduced such as were gone astray into the right path of obedience: the two Armies met, and resolved to finish the disterence by a generall Battail, the price and reward whereof, was the kingdom of Bohemia.

Anholt pitched his Camp upon the White Alountain near Prague, in­trenched himself, and performed the charge of a great Captain. The Impe­rialists, [Page 72]inflamed by the Remonstrances, and Exhortations of Father Domi­nick a Carmelit Fryer, slighted the dangers and difficulties which there were to come to an Onset, in regard of the situation. The Poles and Wallons be­gan the skirmish, which was followed by the whole Army; and the Hun­garians, not able to sustain,Prague re­ceives the Conquerours; as also all the Kingdom. or withstand their attack, basely gave ground, and disturbed the Orders of the Generals, in such sort, as that the Camp be­ing suddenly staggered, after the resistance of some Regiments, the whole Body fell into confusion, and such as could save themselves, got into Prague. There perished more by water, then by the sword; and the terrour was so universall, that there was no other thought left for the conquered, but to flye towards Silesia. King Frederick, not daring to trust himself in the Places of strength which remained, nor yet to his new Subjects neither; retired speedily towards Breslaw, where, entring into conference with the States of the Countrey, and finding neither forces, nor safety to stay there, he put himself upon the way towards Holland.

This Generall Decision fell out upon the eight of November 1620. the very day, upon which was read the Gospel of Give Casar that which is Caesars; and God, that which is Gods. And indeed, it was manifested by the Augures, or Signes from heaven, to whom Godthad determined to give the victory. The number of the slain and drowned, was very great; as being related by some of the most moderate writers, to have amounted to six, or seven thou­sand. The Conquerours lost but very few of theirs, but Count Godfree of Papenhein [...] was found lying amongst the dead, so extremely wounded, that he could hardly declare his own name. But his hour was not yet come, as being reserved for exploits, which were to fill the whole distent of the world, with his glory. The number of the prisoners was not equall, to that of the dead; the City being near enough, for the retreat of such, as were timely spurred on by fear.

Prague, being abandoned by the principall Heads of the Party, remai­ned the price of the Victory. The nest was there, but the Birds flowne. The Duke of Bavaria, after this Master-blow, retired himself to Mun­ [...]ken, leaving the Command of his Army to Monsieur de Tilly, and the rest of the Businesse, to the Conquerours, who quickly brought all the Places of the kingdome, to the Emperours obedience. One, and the same cause, often produces very different Effects. The Bohemians, being of the race of them, who had defeated so many Armies, not only with the sword, but even with the very noyse of their names; fighting now for the same Cause, and upon the same pretexts, obtained not the same good issue. It is true, that those others, had to do with peo­ple, who, in respect they had lived long idle in peace, had not any knowledge, or understanding of armes: and these here, with men, who came out of a School, where Mars praesided; where the best Lessons were taught: and where experience, had made them Cap­taines, Let us now return into France.

CHAP. IV. Warres against the Hugenots, and why? A new difference, between the House of Austria, and the Venetians.

THe Hugenots, not being able to digest the reduction of Bearne, which was performed more by the venerable luster of the Kings Majesty, then by that of the sword, which remained unsheathed; and fearing to be one day overwhelmed, by his good successes, through the instigation of their good friends the Jesuits; discovered their distrust,A second warre against the Hugenots. by Assemblies in divers parts of the kingdom; and last of all at Rochell, where all the Churches met, to consult, and provide for their Businesse. The King being informed, that this Generall Convocation of theirs without his knowledge, and per­mission, too visibly checked his Authority; that that which he had granted them at Londun, proved prejudicial to him, and that it was to his Grace, and not to Arms, that they were to have recourse; gave them to understand his Royall Will; which was, that they should separate themselves within a few dayes, under pain of the crime of High Treason: But in vain; They whose courages are so inflamed, by the clattering of Arms, as to hold it for pleasant musick, are not to be terrified by threats. They send their Deputies to Paris, to make protestation of their fidelity, and excuse the necessity of their affaires. But, the King required nothing but obedience, and so he advanced his Troops towards Saumur, which was delivered him up by Monsieur de Plessis. Saint Iohn d' Angeli, after having suffered some Attacks, implores the Kings par­don, Benjamin Duke of Soubise comes, and casts himself at his Royall feet, and promises him, to wear his sword no more, against his service, though after­wards he quickly forget that promise. The Walls were demolished, upon which the choler of Lewis the just was stopped; and his elemencie extended, upon the Inhabitants. This good successe made him resolve, to march into Gascony, nor did a whit disanimate the Gascons, who had determined on the other side, to sell their liberty at as dear a rate as they could. Many Townes were constrained, to humble themselves, to the victorious Arms of their Prince. The women were often seen, most desperately fighting upon the Breach of the Walls; and really, if the chief of the Party had shewed as much stability, as the Common people did zeal; the prize had not been got­ten so good cheap, nor their Republick (the foundations whereof they were suspected to have already laid) so easily destroyed.

The prosperity of this vertuous Prince, together with the promptitude he used to surprise the Hugenots, before they could have meanes to put any con­siderable forces into the Field, facilitated to him, that which could not be de­nied to his justice; and since hath declared that his will was, to command his Townes, and not the consciences of his People; for the Hugenots who put all their confidence, and security, in the fortifications of theirs, were at length constrained, to rely only upon his Royall Word.

His exploits, against his Subjects of the Reformed Religion, are amply de­scribed by many Authours, and therefore it suffices me, to take notice only, of the course, or Current of them, insert the misfortunes; briefly follow my way, and return with him to Paris; there to hear his victories sung by the one, and see the displeasure done, to the other.

The siege of Montaubanc. The liedge which was laid before Montaubanc (a Town of superlative strength) at the beginning of Autumne, was raised, by the great resistance of the Besieged, seconded by continuall raine, and diseases, which much afflicted, and diminished the Kings Army: not without the losse of many [Page 74]brave men;The Dake of Mayenne kil­led. as the Constable de Luynes, and the Duke of Mayenne, who was lamented most of all Now these two Lords, who had most excellently acted their parts upon the Stage, or Theater of France, and danced a Gig & Round most different in cadency to one another; as they were of a very contrary humour, so had they likewise a very distinct death. And in regard that all the most tragical, and most memorable accidents which happened, are found annexed to their lives, we will succinctly passe through them. The Castle of Amboise gave the beginning, and the Birds laid the foundation of the fortune of Monsieur de Luynes. Reletion of the life of the Con­stalle Luynes. His credit glittered, by the death of the Mar­quis d' Ancre, and by the return of the Princes leagued against the said Mar­quis; and his greatness, by that, of the unfortunate wife, that unhappy Favo­rite, whose Possessions and Goods were liberally bestowed upon him,The death of the Marquis d' Ancre. by the King. He was killed by his Majesties command, and by the counsell of this new Minister, just as he was entring into the Loüure; and his Body torne in pieces, by a people, which thought it self going into a Golden Age, after this Execution.And his VVife. His wife, who had been the companion of his Greatnesse, was likewise to be so, of his disaster and fall. She was cast in prison, and not­withstanding she baffled, and eluded the vanity of the witnesses, who accu­sed her of magick, or witchcraft; she was neverthelesse condemned to suf­fer a shamefull death, upon the Market-place of Greve. Her Exccution cau­sed pitty, in the soules of some; contentment in others, and amazement to strangers, the eyes of whose understandings were not dazled, by the clowds of passion. For it was a strange thing, to set a Lady, upon a base and infa­mousscaffold, who had been but a little before, with so much power and greatnesse, at the Court. Ah false, and treacherous Fortune! How much gall dost thou hide, under thy honey? and how many treacheries, under thy favours? No marvel, if thou destroy, what thou hast made, since thou overturnest even Kings, and Kingdomes themselves, which had taken their foundations, from the hands of the Almighty himself. This tragical Begin­ning being brought to his desired issue, Luynes counselled the King, to banish his Mother from the Court, whom he knew to be in implacable indignation against him. Her Exile (which was taken for a Retreat) the advancement of his two Brothers, companions of his fortune, and the total and entire dis­posal, of the favour, of the good King; cast him into the hatred of the peo­ple, which he could not faile to inherit, as well as of the Queen; and into the aversion of the Princes, who took his government for a pretext, of their dis­contentments, and for a cloak, to disguise their interests. From the quality of an ordinary Gentleman, he rid Post (as it were) to honours, and was cre­ated Earl, and Viceroy of Picardy, Duke, and Peer of France; and within a very short time after, Constable. In fine, all smiled upon him; every one adored this Golden Calfe; yea, even they, who if they could have gotten him in their power, would have crushed, and shivered him to pieces. To secure himself from the Queen-Mother, he procured the deliverance of the Prince of Conde: but common necessity, obstructed the course of his greatness, though it hardly extinguished the hatred, which all the French bore him, and left him but two friends, who caused his miserable Body to be secretly interred, for fear, lest be should receive the same treatment of him, whose place he had taken. O short felicity! full of troubles, disquiets, cares, and vexatious apprehensions! O vain Glory! so much hunted after, so much envied, and so dearly and painfully bought? how deceitful is thy end? O vain Honours! How are you steeped, and drenched in gall? And how different from those, which are prepared by Eternity for us? On the other side, Prince Henry was beloved, almost throughout all France, as well for his great vertue, as for the open hatred he carried to the Constable; ended his dayes upon the bed of honour, before Montanban, for the Catholick Faith, and for the restauration of the Autho­rity [Page 75]of his King, and the whole Kingdom.His life. He was son to the deceased Duke of Mayenne, so well known, in the History of the precedent Age; to whom France had this obligation, that she was not dismembred, and crippled, du­ring the fury of the cruell Warres. Whilest he courted the Widow of the Count de Soissons, she moved both him, and the Duke of Nevers, 1614. to this perni­cious Warre; to whom the Prince of Conde, and the busie Duke of Boü [...]lon joyned themselves also; which kindled by some certain Princess, who respired nothing but vengeance, and terminated, by the prudence of that most wise Queen, at Saint Menehout. He retired from the Court, for the hatred he bore to the Constable, and followed the party of the Queen-Mother,1620. toge­ther with other Princes: in regard of the ill treatment she received. His choler caused him to commit a great fault, before Moissac in Quercy, whereof the of a frank, and open humour, without dissimulation; such as is fit for a Prince, and not for a Courtier. He was also free to speak, and deliver his opinion, and very courteovs to his inferiours; much more intense, upon the ruine of the Hugenot Party, then upon prolonging the Warre, as many have done, for their own proper interest. In fine, a Bullet sent him to his grave, put the Army in disorder, France into mourning,The mourning of all France for his death. an end to so many brave ex­ploits, which which will cause him to be eternally hurt, to the siege of Mon­taubane, and to the fear of the Hugenots, who called him the great Butcher: and the tears interrupted by sobbes, expressed the true love, which all the Orders of France really bore him; and which was besides, most amply de­cleared, by the elegant Orations made at his Funerall. The newes of his death being divulged at Paris, so much moved the Common-people, that they cast themselves upon the Reformates, and fired the Church of Charenton, yea, and the mischief had yet gone further, had it not been prevented, and stop­ped, by the Queens, and the Lords of the Parliament. Some dayes after, the Pontan Change (in English, the Exchange Bridge) and the Pont des Orfebures, (in English, Goldsmiths Bridge) were likewise set on fire, with inestimable loss; for which the Reformats were much suspected by their enemies, thereby to revenge themselves of the affronts which had been done them; for venge­ance is sweet. But much more diligence was used, to finde out the riches, which was fallen into the River, then the cause of two such disasters. How­ever it be, the Warre grew hot the next year after, and the King made himself Master of the Isles St. Martin, d'Oleron, and Bronage. After some small victories gotten upon the Duke of Rohan, and his Brother,The Peace made at Mont­peillier. 1622. A Tumult at Paris against them of the Re­ligion. The Peace made. the Peace was concluded at Montpeillier; by which the said Towne (more by force, then by inclination) returned to her duty; and all the party, which had been attacked by many Armies throughout all the Provin­ces, after frequent losses, began to respire, and shewed, that it was no more invincible. This Peace separated the Navies, hindered the Duke of Guise, from prevailing upon his advantage; and the Fort Lewis built upon the Haven of Rochelle, gave subject to renew the War, as we shall hereafter shew.

The Venetians, to procure reparation of the dammages received from the Croats, 1617. in the year 1617. found themselves obliged to arme, against the House of Austria. And they entered by force into the Territories of the Arch-Duke Ferdinand, The Venetians against the House of Au­stria. from whence they were repulsed. Then, they made an Allyance with the Ʋnited Provinces, and received succour from them, under the conduct of Count Iohn of Nasseaw: But both par­ties, having had experience of the mutable lot of Armes, they return­ed into their former good intelligence. At the same time the Warre began again, between the King of Spaine, and the Duke of Savoy. Ver­celly was taken by the Spaniards; and the Savoyers entred into the Dutchy [Page 76]of Milan. But this Difference was quickly appeased, by the intercestion of the Pope, and the King of France. When Fortune is equall, and humours capable of reason, Peace is quickly made. Let us go now to Vienna.

CHAP. V. The wars of Austria, Lusatia, Moravia, and the Palatinat.

WE left Ferdinand, ill enough accompanied on his way to Frankfurt, and the Landgrave, William of Darmstadt came to meet him, and conducted him into the Town, where he was received, and saluted Empe­rour; though he easily marked a sufficient aversion in that people, from the Princes of his family. What cannot Religion effect, upon weak, and ill-informed mindes? It begets a blind zeal, which being grown big, produces as much mischief as it can possibly effect; and hearkening to nothing but Passion, thinks it does well, whilest it does ill.

Whilest the Emperour was detained by the reception of these honours, they of his Party were in daily action with their enemies, and that often with advantage; But this war was terminated the year following, 1620, by the Battel of Pragne. A notable observation, that one onely Battel purchased the Conquerours a whole Kingdom. The War of Austria.

Austria was also exercised, by a revolt no lesse dangerous, then that of Bohemia; chiefly, because it chanced at the same time, and for that it de­prived Ferdinand of all safe retreat.

The leagued Mutincers took arms upon this captious pretext; That the Archduke Albert was their Lord, and not the said Ferdinand. How bad soever the Cause be which the Lawyer pleades, he forbeares not yet to speak alond. He on the other side alledged the donation made him by Albert, inviting them to renounce the League, and pay him the Oath of fidelity; which they refu­sing, he proclaimed them out-laws, and gave the execution of the Proscri­ption to the Duke of Bavaria, who reduced them to reason, time enough to come to succour the Count of Bucquoy.

Lusatia, depending upon the Kingdom of Bohemia, was the allyance, and must needs, for sooth, have her finger in the Pye. This Province was recom­mended, to the Electour of Saxonie; who choosing rather to proceed by way of accommodation, then presently to fly to extremities, made the States ac­quainted with his Commission; shewed then the danger of persisting in ob­stinacy; and would have certainly have perswaded them, had not the Mar­quis of Lagerendorp broken the negotiation by force of arms, and brought the Negotiatours away prisoners. This impertinent action much displeased the Electour; who finding that they had violated the Law of Nations, resolved to tamper no more with them.Baudissa burneth. The Town of Baudissa, first felt his cholar, and the violence of his arms, which after she was almost wholly reduced to ashes, at length yeelded her self up; and all the rest followed her example. This exploit made the Duke of Saxonie very odious, to the Protestant Party; but, the Emperour, for recompence of his services, and to keep him fast in his friendship, made him a present of both the Lusatia's. It is impossible to please all, and especially two contrary Parties, filled with acrimony, and hatred, through the zenl of Religion.

Austria, Bohemia, and the two Lusatia's, were no sooner under obe­dience, then there was a necessity to turn the sword another way; as name­ly, to Moravia; Moravia. which was undertaken and quickly accomplished by Bucquoy. Favour wheels about with Fortune, and Envy lies in wait for it.

The town of Iglaw forthwith stooped; Swaim followed, and Generall Spet, being returned to his duty, brought all the other Towns also (partly by force, and partly by inclination) to theirs; and to that warr which seem­ed by the animosities thereof, as if it would have lasted whole ages, was ended, for some time in all those Provinces. The Silesians, The Silesians make peace. fearing the victo­rious Duke of Saxonie, who added threats to reasons, and had already lifted up his hand to strike, chose rather to hearken to a friendly Composition, then run the hazard of being forced to it, to the ruine, both of their Country and Priviledges: and consequently, they sent their Embassadours to Dresden, where the Peace was concluded, all forgotten, and all pardoned, upon con­dition, that they should pay three millions of money, and renounce the afore­said allyances: whereupon they took the Oath of Fidelity to their Master; and he granted them free exercise of their Religion. Let us step back to wards the Palatinat.

The war of the house of Austria The House of Austria, not content with having extinguished the fire at home, carried it into the Territories of the Prince Palatine. Now the Prin­ces of that great Union; to wit, the Marquis of Anopach, the Landgrave Maurice of Hassia, the Marquis of Dourlarch, the Duke of Wirtembergh, and some Imperiall Townes, had contracted great forces, for the defence of the Pala [...]inat. It is most facile, to re-kindle new quenched firebrands, put together by meanes of the heat, which remaines in them some hours after. Spinola went to se­cond them, and Prince Henry Frederick, who was sent by Prince Manrice, with a Renfort or Supply of some Horse; not finding a perfect harmony amongst them, nor being able to put such an one as was needfull, retyred himself into Holand, leaving the Peace to be treated by those Princes; after they had basely suffered almostrall the Country to be taken by the Spaniards: Ʋpon which the Spaniards seized. And so, this great and needlesse stir, vanished into smoak, and melted, like a great Colosse, or Pillar of snow, before the Sun-beams; for the Principall Heads, having promised not to assist the Palatine, either with men, or mo­ney, betook themselves to rest, after they had finished so fine a Master­piece as this, which merits, to be inserted in Commentaries; namely, that Spinola, with an army of eighteen thousand men, went and took a Province which was guarded by thirty thousand, and many Princes besides. Dis-united strength is easily broken.

Some Heads of the Hughenot Party, endeavoured to represent to the King the interest he had, to hunder the progresse of the House of Austria, upon his Allyes, their brethren; but in vain; he well enough remembring the succour formerly sent them from thence, which failing them now, disabled them from resisting, against his triumphant Arms. Let us now see, what the Hung arians did, whilest these Tragidies were a playing. They are Neighbours to the Germans, and have the Crosse on the side, and the Half-Moone, on the other.

CHAP. VI. The warre of Transylvama. The King of Poland treacherously wounded. Warre between the Poles, and the Turks.

BEthlem Gabor, having made an allyance with Frederick, and seeing Ferdi­nands forces employed in Bohemia, began to consider, not onely of ma­king a powerfull diversion, but also of winning a Crown, We have Ambition, and we shall also quickly find Religion. He raised a great Army, under very abstense, and farre-fetch'd pretexts, thereby to puzzle, and baffle such as had power to resist him. This man, for a fine beginning, oppressed Gabriel Batorius his Lord, by the assistance of the Turk; and so being grown Master of Transylvania, and propped by the Ottomans, he possessed it, in the quality of Prince thereof. He made a League with the Archdukes; but seeing them entangled in dangerous Wars, he pricked up his ears, and raised a po­tent Army, to seize upon the Kingdom of Hungarie. Convenience moves men to break ally ances, as well as necessity; and good successe covers the injustice of the Cause; or at least, urges the doubt, that if Right be to be violated, it ought to be onely to winne a Crown. War of Transylvania. In fine, he secretly armed, took occasion by the fore­lock, and cloathed the Lyon, with a foxes skin. He got possession of Cassovia, before the people thought themselves in danger. They, whose affections he enjoyed, were discovered by their Religion: The Romane Catholicks, and such others also, as had any resentment of their duty, being frighted, some armed,Gaber takes Posen. and others fled. He took Posen, under the title of Prince of Hungarie; marched to Vienna, and joyned with the Confederates to besiege the Town. But the Polanders, having defeated his Troops, which remained in Hungarie, Is declared King of Hun­garie. made him return, and mould his businesse after another form; so much did he stand in awe of the King of Poland: though he went back­wards, onely to leap the better: For he obtained a Truce, which he quick­ly brake, proclaimed himself King by them of his Caball, entered again in­to Austria, and if Fortune had not turned her back upon the Confederates in Bohemia, it is very likely, he might fully have accomplished all his preten­tions, and ruined the said House of Austria it self. There is something wanting, we rise, either too early, or too late. The Emperour was shut up in the Town, and constrained both to hear, and suffer the insolency of some seditions Citizens, which was repressed by the Count of Dampiere, who departed not long after towards Posen, with intention to surprize it; but he was killed by a Musket bullet.Dampiete killed. He was by birth a Lorrain; had done the Emperour many most considerable services, and was much deplored, by the whole Patty. Bethlem finding this thorn out of his foot, and having bought the amity of the Turk with money, brake the Truce, but his Letters, by which he invited the Tartars, and wherein he gave them testimonies of what ser­vices he would perform to the Grand Signior, at the cost of the Empire, and all Christendome, by allying himself with the Turk, being intercepted; he disobleiged the prime Lords of Hungarie, who cast themselves into the Emperours armes, and fell upon Gabors forces, and handled them almost as ill, as the Polanders had done the year before.

The Count de Bucquoy in Hungarie. Hereupon the Count de Bucquoy entered into Hungarie, took many Townes, and amongst others, Posen it self: and the Tartars, coming to relieve Gabor, were cut in pieces, by the Poses, under the command of that great Captain, Cotqueviets.

The Emperour had run great hazard of loosing the Kingdome of Hungarie, Is killed. (had not Fortune saved it) by the death of the brave Count of Bucquoy; who attempting to repulse the Hungarians, when they sallyed out of Newhewsel, was layd upon the ground, with no lesse then sixteen wounds. He could not more generously surrender his soul, nor finde a more illustrious bed of honour, to crown the greatnesse of his actions, had not his souldiers so basely forgotten their duty,His A, my dis­bands it self. and disbanded themselves so ignominiously. For they might, by carrying the body of this Mars, with as much reason, have expected to winne Victories, as the Spaniards did, by that of their Rodrigues; but after the losse of their Generall, they found themselves without pulse, life, and motion. And so, we may easily think, how sensible a losse this was, to the Emperour, and all his family, to whom he had rendered so potent services.

Thus by the death of this one brave Captaine, Fortune changed, and the Conquered became Conquerours. They, who before, were reduced, to a meer feeble, and fearfull defensive Warre, regained courage, and re­turned to besiege the places which they had lost. But Fortune, lighter then the winde, made Bethlem know, how necessary it was for him, to make Peace; and Ferdinand, desirous to remedy so many evils, as surrounded him on every side, easily suffered himself to be induced to it, by his own naturall inclination: And so, upon the restitution of the Crown, and the relin­quishment of the Title of King, the Peace was made, and Arms laid down, for a while; though Gabor never cast off the desire of moving, nor the ha­tred, which he carried to his Lord, the Emperour.

The King 'of Poland hurr. Now, since we are gotten so neer Poland, let us deliver that which hap­ned there, in the year 1620, The King being at Wartsawe, where the Diet was held; and going into the Church upon the fifteenth of November, a Gentleman gave him two blows with a Pole-axe upon the head and ano­ther on his shoulder, which very much endangered his life: But the Parri­cide received his reward, and the King was heard by the standers by, with a faint and feeble voice, to pronounce these words: What (said he) do the Polanders learne of the French, to kill their Kings?

Let us go hence, till we shall first have related the subject, for which Os­man the Emperour of Turkie with an Armie of above four hundred thou­sand men, attempted to swallow up all this puissant Kingdome, which was this.

The Waywood of Walachia being revolted from the Grand Signior, and calling in the Poles to relieve him, was attacked by the Tartars, and Turks; who, in the first fight, having the worst, and in the last, the best of the day, the Waywode was killed, and the Polish Nobility defeated: and this Victory so much inflamed the heart of the Great Turk, that he shamefully banished the Poland Embassadour from his Court, and declared a war upon the King. Fortune, is the Mistresse of young Princes, for by good successes, Osmàn at­tacks Poland. she fills them with temerity, to destroy them.

CHAP. VII

THe prosperous progresse of the Emperours Generals, repaired, and rai­sed his Authority, to so much splendour, that every body desired to keep himself fast with him, and gaine his favour; there remaining none who durst openly act for Frederick, but such as were droven by despaire. For, the Duke of Anholt, finding the gate open to a reconciliation, stooped to get in; and many Townes also did the same. And the Landgrave William, sonne to Maurice of Hassia, who finding Bellona too hard, and rigorous a Mistresse, betook himself to the society of the Muses, followed the example of the former, and was received with the same benevolence; yea, and ador­ned with a new Title of Honour besides. We are forced, in a scorn, to make a good Part, which, when the danger is past, we do not value.

Mansfeldt recollected fragments of the Armies, found means to repair his losses,Mansfeldt uses deceit in the Palatinate. and grew likely to restore things, to the point from whence they were fallen. In effect, not being able to get into Bohemia, he wheeled about towards the Palatinate: where, by the taking of some places, and fighting some prosperous skirmishes, he raised the courage of his souldiers, and struck astonishment into his enemies. But, the Duke of Bavaria, seased upon the up­per Palatinate, reduced him to such extremity, that, upon the condition of a summe of mony, and some very high title of Honour, he was content to seek Peace with the Emperour; however it were intended by him, but onely to save his Army, and so to kill two birds with one stone. Foul play, or cheaterie, when it succeeds well, passes for a gallant piece of warlike craft; and wickednesse never seeks long, before it findes an occasion. For as soon as he arri­ved in the Lower Palatinate, he threw off his Vizard, broke his word, took many Towns (which served for a Fee to his hunger-starved souldiers) sack­ed Alsatia, Takes Hage­naw. and surprized Hagenaw.

Frederick, upon the noise of these successes, left Holland, passed incognito through France, and not without huge paines, and danger, got to the Army. There happened a surious Encounter near Wisloch, The Bavarians beaten. where the Bavarian; lost abost above two thousand men, a great number of Colours, and four Field-Pieces; which were testimonies, that the victory was not coutemptible.

But Tilly was not long, before he found meanes to revenge himself of this affront. It is good to lend to such, as are alwayes read to render. For, having joy­ned his Troops with Don Cordocia, and being informed, that the Marquis of Baden was separated from Mansfeldt, he followed him so close, that he over­took him neer Wimpfen; where, after a stubborn fight of some hours, he put the Cavalry to flight. But the Infantry, or Foot, finding themselves aban­doned with a masculine resolution, mingled with despair, and desire of an honourable death, fought very valiantly, and made Tilly know, that he should not have their lives at so cheap a rate,They have their revenge. as not to wrangle stoutly for them; howbeit, by an unlucky chance, they were deprived of the meanes, though not of the will,Victory of the Imperialists near Wimpson. to continue it. For, by the perpetual playing of the Ordnance, the fire got into the powder, which sprung the Waggons with so unfortunate hurt, that all the Foot fell into disorder, and was cut in pieces: [Page 81]And eight and thirty Pieces of Canon; a great deal of Baggage, and mo­ney, with six score Coulors falling into the hands of the Conquerours, made the Conquered confesse, that they received a huge, and most sensible losse. The Field was strewed with dead Bodies, and the perishing of six thousand men upon the place, gave cause to count this, for one of the greatest Bat­tails of this Age.

The Bishop of Halberstadt in the interim was not asleep; but having con­tracted great forces,The cruelties of the Bishop of Halberstadt in Westphalia. he went ravaging and pillaging all Westphalia; sparing neither Monkes, Nunnes, nor Ornaments of the Church it self, to satiate his cruelty, leachery, and avarice. Indeed, the scandall he gave, was too great; for his proceedings were blamed, even by them of his own Party: and he purchased the name of the Mad Bishop. But the Catholicks were too much tyed to the Emperours service, and therefore he thought fit to chastise them, since there was no other means, to hurt their Victorious head; and besides, the disgust of their so often singing Te Deum, was too sharp and hot to be en­dured. At Paterborne, he took a Statue of Sains Liborius, of massive Silver, and melted it into Rex Dollars, which he signed, with an Arm stretched out, and a sword, with this motto, A Friend to God: and an Enemy to Priests. The youthfull insolencies, and unreasonable actions, which he committed in a certain Cloyster of Nunnes, must be buried in silence; for the like could not happen, but in a corrupt Age. This Army cast the greatest bulk of the war,Warre again the Ecclesia­sticks. upon the Ecclesiasticks; nor can there be imagined any kinde of sacriledge, which was not perpetrated by them; neither went they in fine; very farre, before they received the Crown of their works. For being coasted, or over­taken by the Count of Anholt, who was now joyned to Tilly, they were stre­nuously assaulted, near the River Maine; and endeavouring to passe in confusion, the Bridge brake, and made fine sport for the Imperialists, who cut off such as were stopped: and the River conspiring to their destruction, thruzled a great many more, so that only they who could swimme escaped, and through their great diligence made a shift at length to reach the Avant­guard of the Army, where their Bishop marched, and so ranged themselves under the wings of General Mansfeldt, so that the River shared stakes with the Imperialists, in the honour of this victory, as having drowned about three thousand of them. Frederick after this so rough a check, having no means at all left to maintain his forces any longer, disbanded them, and re­tired himself back to the Hague, there to expect the issue of the Treaty at Brussels, by which Frankendal, with the consent of King Iames of England, was sequestred into the hands of the Infanta.

Tilly went afterwards, and took Heidelberg by force, and Manhein, by composition; and that great renowned Library,Heidelbergh taken, and the Library carri­ed to Rome. was transported to Rome (for the Pope would have also his part of the booty) to the great trouble of all the Electorall Family: but, who can resist against Fate? Mansfeldt, and his Bishop, marched on towards Lorrain, through which they passed, without any repugnance, the Duke being surprized by their unexpected approach, and stayed some weeks at Sedan; and Card [...]a, who was at their heels, in­camped himself at Ivoy. We will leave them there, to plot new Designes with the Duke of Bo [...]llon, and return into Poland, to see what great body of Nobility march so briskly on, to face that potent Emperour Osman.

CHAP. VIII. The continuance of the warre between the Poles, and the Turks. The tragicall end of young Osman. The death of some Lords.

THe Polanders, being resolved to revenge the affront done their Embas­sadour, received besides some kind of check in Moldavia; but Prince Ʋladistans hasting thither with a puissant Army, defeated the Turks in a ranged Battail; which kindled so great fury in the young Emperour Osman, that he swore he would be revenged, and destroy the kingdom of Poland, with that terrible Army, whereof we have spoken already. King Sigismund received the Alarme, and sent his Embassadours to all Christian Kings, im­ploring their assistance against the Common Enemy. King James aforesaid sent five thousand men, whom the King of Denmark would not suffer to pass, in respect of the Allyance between him, and the King of Sweden. In fine, the Polanders finding nothing, but excuses every where, were fain to get all on horse-back, together with their King, and go to deliver their Prince, who was so ingaged, that he had almost no means left him to escape evident danger. It was a worthy object,They make all the Nobility march, to suc­cour [...]lad [...]slaus. to see a King march at the Head of two hundred thousand Gentlemen: whereof the Grand Signor being advertised, sent to offer a Peace to the Prince, who embraced it, as an Embassie come from heaven; because the third part of his Troops of sixty thousand men, which were left to defend the Confines against this huge multitude, was quite con­sumed, partly by continual attacks,The Yeate made and partly by diseases, as having been com­pelled, for want of victuals, to eat many of their own horses.

The Tucks, after having wanted half their Army, made their retreat; which, together with the Peace, was about the moneth of October, 1621. Let us follow them to Constantinople, where we shall see the tragical, and pi­tifull end of their Prince.

Osman, the aforesaid young Prince, by some deportments of his, gave su­spition to the Innisuries, of his having a mind to transferre both the Trea­sure, and seate of the Empyre, from Constantinople, under pretext of making a pilgrimage to the Sepulcher of their Prophet Mahomet. Osman strang­led, and Musta­pha cl [...]led in his place. Whereupon, his ships were stopped, his Favorites massacred in his presence, and himself, after having endured a thousand indignities from the Souldiers, strangled by the command of his Uncle, whom they had drawne out of his Hermitage, to succeed him. But he did not long enjoy those honours, whereof indeed he was unworthy. Happy are they, who live content in the lownesse of their Con­divion, and are not exposed to the blowes of the Thunderbolt; at those Captaines also are, who for sake the Armies, to return to the Plough, without I stening to the voyce of the charming Syrens of ambition. But it is not only here, that we have seen unheard-of changes.

Now these fatall Tragedies were advantageous to the Christians, who were so divided by the two so often mentioned Passions,The Count de la Tour obtaines suco [...] of the Turk. that there was no appearance left to reunite them. The old Count de la Tour, and the Marquis of Lagerendorf, were knocking at the Grand-Signors Gate, and displaying both their Rhetorick, and their Presents, seconded by the Embassadours of the inconstant Gabor; so much were they seazed by desire, to ruine the House of Austria, which almost all Christendome banded together, hath not been able to effect hitherto; no, nor so much as to deprive it, of the Imperial Crown.S [...]ks Mora­via. However, they obtained some succour, sackaged Moravia, and joyned with Gabor; but the Turks were defeated, and their Mustapha com­pelled to yeeld up his place to Amurath, Is be [...] [...]. Brother to Osman. And these [Page 83]Tragedies were the cause of the warre, which chanced between the Turks and Persians, to the great good of Christendom; and gave occasion also to the Gossacks to make a Cavalcada, or Inroade, to the very Gates of Constantinople. The Cossacks at the Gates of Constantino­ple. For, after they had passed many great Forrests, and vast Deserts, the Alarme grew so hot, that if the said Cossacks had not speedily retreated with their prey, the poor Christians in the Town had had their throats cut, it regard that it was published, that they had intelligence with them. Let us now take leave of the Countries, of the Half The Turks. Moon, for many yeares, and return by the Mediterranean, into those of theThe Roman Catholick Countries upon the Mediterra­nean Sea. Crosse, which being momentarily sprinkled with blood, cannot choose but multiply abundantly.

The Venetians were very attentive to the successes of the Bohemian warre, and being more propense to their own interest, then their Religion, occultly favoured the Bohemians. But the rest of the States of Italy, leaned more to the other side; however Peace remained amongst them, just as they did in Spain, where they received the newes of a great victory, upon the King of Maroco, and saw (after the expiration of the Truce) some Holland Vessels brought into their Ports, which came from Venice, and were taken in the Sreights of Gibelaltar. This year 1621. in the moneth of March, deceased Philip the third, King of Spain, and was followed some moneths after,The death of Philip the third King of Spain, and of and Cardinal Bel­latmine. by the pious Arch-Duke Albert, who left the Country to his Isabel, and the Com­mand of the Militia, to the Marquis Spinola. That famous Cardinal Robert Bellarmin, so well known by the Books he left written, both against the Re­formats, and others, paid likewise his tribute to Nature, this very year, being above fourscore years old. England continued in Peace; and therefore we will step into the Low-Countries.

CHAP. IX

HOlland was full of loy, upon the termination of the Domestick Disor­ders, and the condemnation of the Arminians; a great part whereof withdrew themselves out of united Provinces; some others embraced the doctrine of the confession of Auxbourgh, and the rest fought so long against their Crosses, that they surmounted them at length, by obtaining in many Towns free Exercise of their Faith. But this joy was quickly turned into mourning, by the arrivall of the newes of the unhappy successe of King Fre­dericks Arms; and the losse of his Kingdom, which he had already had, some moneths in his possession. Though yet the Gazets sung alwayes of his victories, and of the decline of the Emperours Affayres: yea, and the Pain­ters represented him already, sitting in the Imperial Throne; Ferdinand, on his knees before him; and the Eagle all peeled, and debilitated.The Eagle peeled. It was also published, that the Battail before Prague, was wonne by him and the contrary tidings contemned, as suspects, and given out by the Papists; till himself ar­rived, and brought the naked Truth with him, and shewed in fine, that all was lost. There are many persons so passionate, that they cannot endure to hear truth spoken, if it be contrary to their expectation; and others preferre, before the infamy of lying, the unsteady profit which comes from it.

Prince Maurice had often enough bid the Generalls of Bohemia, have a [Page 84]care of themselves, for that they had to do with a great Captain, full of cou­rage, and experience. Many have believed, that it was his designe, to make Frederick be raised to the Imperiall Crown; neither were the means there­of so difficult, had not God disposed otherwise of it. They of Brabant, on the other side, by way of equall return to the Hollanders, pictured the Emperour in his Throne,Loaden with with feathers. elevated on high, with a King fallen at his feet, and the Eagle loaden with feathers, plucking the Crown off his Head. But Painters, and Poets have alwayes been permitted, to set forth their fancies; and the Com­mon People feed themselves with them, as with solid food.

Now, the Contra-Remonstrancers, as well by means of the Synod of Dort, as by the company of the Prince (who declared himselfe of their party) having wonne the Day,Maurice chan­ges the Magi­strates. stayed not there. For Maurice, by the advice of some Lords, having changed the Magistrates in many Townes, as I have hinted already; put in their places, such as he liked, and such as approved of the said Synod: In such sort, as the Arminians were fain to leave the Cushion against their wills, and were ill treated too, in some parts, for ma­king too free use of that, which by vertue of their birthright, and the suc­cesse of the Armes of the Common-wealth, they conceived, could not be denied them.

These changes begat many Libells, and gave ground to the Politicks, to make sine observations, upon those proceedings, which remained secret No definitive sentence can be pronounced, upon what may be done, but upon what is done.

Now, as mens humours which were agitated, began by little and little, to relent, or slacken; and partialities, partly for fear, and partly for want of nou­rishment, to be choaked in the desire repose; just so did the Truce draw to­wards an end. And it must be noted, that these people, how much soever divided in faction, return forthwith to a coherence, when they apprehend any forraine Enemy: For really, common danger hath so great a power upon their minds, that it makes them speedily reunite, to resist the attempts of strangers: and if that come once to faile, farewell Liberty; for they will never, want private enemies; and their pride is growne too high, not to be envied by many. Their vertue is accompanied by envy, but their Power is too considerable, to be easily, and openly attacked. One of the greatest wits of our times, advised the King of Spain, to make a Truce with them if he had mind to tame them.The nature of the Hollanders. For they are (said he) like over, which joyne together, to repell the Wolves; but as soon as the danger is once past, they fall to oddes amongst themselves.

The Arch-Duke sounded them, to see if they would hearken to a Peace, and acknowledge him for Soveraign, under such terms, as seemed to divide the Soveraignty; but they bore a deaf ear, and would not hear of so much, as a prolongation of the Truce: and the Embassadour passing through Delph, was entertained by the dregges of the people, with durt and mud, and most unworthily treated, before it could be remedied. An Embassadour cannot be welcome, where his Master is hated. This affront was dissem­bled; Spinola being returned out of Germany, went, and incamped himself near the Rhein, whilest Count Henry of Berghen, blocked up Gulick, which surrendered it self for want of food, in the moneth of February, 1622. The same year Pape [...]tz (in English, Priests-Cap) was likewise taken, by meanes of the huge quantity of Granadaes, which were cast into it. This was a Fort so called, seated upon an Island, in the middle of the Rhein, built during the Truce, to exact Contributions of the circumjacent Coun­tries, and to incominodate the Boats, which could not pass without being examined, and visited by it; and it was sacrificed to the vengeance of the Priests, because it carried both the name, and figure of their Quadran­gular Bonnets.

Count Maurice, by the decease of Philip of Nassaw, his eldest brother (who died like a Catholick at Breda, a little before the expiration of the Truce) being become Prince of Orange, and Heir by will, to all his said brothers goods; sent his other brother with four thousand men, to enter into little Brabant, and force the Contributions.The Hollan­ders in Brabant This surprize very much amazed Spinola, cast the Country people into despair, to see their houses fired: and moved the soul of the Infanta (who beheld this spoil from the wals of Brus­sels) to compassion. The Citizens would have marched out with their arms, to revenge this wrong; but Spinola, commanded the Gates to be kept shut, and would not suffer them, to go, and expose themselves to slaughter, and an inevitable defeat. The inhabitants of a Town do enough, when they defend their own walls; for the Field is fatall to them, against old Bands and trained Souldiers. Count Henry of Bergues arriving too late, to hinder the return of the Hollan­ders, (which he might have effected, either with his forces, or by stopping up the River of Demer) grew to be suspected, of intelligence with his Kins­men. He was reproached, that he might have come six and twenty houres sooner; and that, if he had used all requisite diligence, the enemies could not have escaped: But he excused himself the best he could; and satisfied most of the Councell, though not all; and after his retreat, it was all more maturely examined, and considered by the most judicious men.The complaint of the Spanish Embassadour, in his behalf. The Em­bassadour of Spaine complained once to King Henry of France; for his endea­vouring to disingage the said Count from his Masters service; to which the King answered, that he was by birth a Germane, and no subject of the King of Spains. And thus passed this complaint, together with many more, which the ignorant people imputed, to the hatred, which the Spaniards (according to their saying, and belief) carried towards him.

CHAP. X. Berghen besieged. Mansfeldt, and his Bishop being beaten by Cordoua, come to succour the Hollanders. The death of the Duke of Bouillon, and a summary of his life. Spinola quitts the siege. Mansfeldt pas­ses into Friezland. A third Warre in France.

THe burning of many fair villages, in the sight of the Court, caused so much spite in Spinolas soule, that he studied nothing more, then the meanes of revenging himself of it. He kept his designe secret; and assembled a great Army, one part whereof he assigned to Don Lewis de Velasco, and con­ducted the other (which was far the greatest) himself. He made a shew to draw towards the Rheyn, thereby to amuse the Hollanders, whilest the said Don Lewis had order to march with all speed, to Berghen op Zoom, and to seize upon Emblee, the Haven, and the two Forts, which defended it; but, whether out of jealousie, or otherwise, he want, and took Steenbergh; gi­ging the Hollanders time, to re-inforce the Garrison, and secure the Isle of Tertollen. The Marquis neverthelesse arrived, and besieged the Place;Berghen be­sieged. but not being able to gaine the possession of the said Haven, he wasted a good part of his Army about it.

We left Mansfeldt, and his Bishop, at Sedan, in consultation with the Duke [Page 86]of Bouillon; Minsfeldt at Sedan. and let us now call them from thence, since we are sure to learn nothing of their private conferences, but onely by conjecture. The King of France was then before Montauban; and fearing least they might serve themselves of the fair occasion, to make a strong diversion, in fauour of the Hughenots, who were very much weakened; he commanded the Duke of Neuers, The Duke of Neuers. to raise speedily a Body of an Army in Champague, and entertaine the said Mansfeldt with Treaties, till his Troops were in condition, to hin­der his passage. He also wrote to Don Cordona, who promised him to come, and relieve him, in case the Germans made but the least shew of moving a­gainst his service.

Mansfeldt dares not suc­cour the Hughe­nots. Now this proposition of succouring the Hughenots, being found most dif­ficult, and of too dangerous a consequence, and the meanes of returning the same way they came, taken from them; they resolved to traverse, or passe through Brabaus, and go to succour Berghen, which Spinola attacked both with Mines; and Assaults, as he had done Ostend; and this so much the ra­ther, because they were invited thither, by the States Generall, and the Prince of Orange. And so they marched, and by their departure, freed Campagne, from the great oppressions, wherewith they had very ill treated the Lasiere. Cordona, and Anholt followed them; and having overtaken them near Floury, compelled them to stop, and face about. The battail be­gan hotly;Is beaten by Cordona. and Cordona was in danger of losing it, if the enemies horse had stood fast, and better seconded the foot, which was almost all cut off by the Canon. But five hundred Peasants of the Province of Liege, who presumed to set upon them, were cut in pieces, and sacrificed, to their displeasure; which yet, was quite forgotten, as soon as they came to the Hollanders Camp.

The Mansfeldians excused their losse, by the necessity they had, to get the passage; which, since they had obtained, by the sword, the Imperialests (said they) ought not so much to boast of their Victorie. The Bishop was hurt in the arme,The Bishop loses his arme. which was forced to be cut off; which gave the Romane Catho­licks ground to publish, that, that arme which made warre against the Priests, had deserved to be struck off. It is very likely, that if the Protestants had not feared to alienate the King from their Party (of whose favour they hoped one day to feel some effects) they would have made no difficulty at all, to set the Hughenots upon their feet again in such sort, as that the King could not lay hold of a more opportune season to humble them, then during the decline of the affairs, of the Protestants in Germany.

The Duke of Bouillon, after the departure of the Germans, being quite cra­zed with age, payed his tribute to Nature: and it concerns us, to speak brief­ly of his life, that so we may come both to the knowledge of his experience, and exploits,The death of the Duke of Bouillon. and of his right also to Sedan. Religion, and Nature tied him fast to his Kings service, whose secrets, and savour he enjoyed for a long time. His first wife was the Princesse, who was heiress to Sedan; and not­withstanding that she died without Childrein, and that there was another heir of the same House,His life. he left not to retaine the said Principat, by the sup­port of the Kings favour.He marries the heiresse of Se­dan. He keeps the Principate, and passes to the second marriage. Believed, in Germary, 1609 Surprizes S [...]y. In his second marriage, he had the daughter, of Prince William of Orange, by whom he had begat two sons, who grew very famous afterwards; and by this Allyance, he acquired a most streight cor­respondence with the States Gonerall of the united provinces. He much mo­lested the Dutchies of Lorraine and Luxenburgh by arms, wherein he pur­chased great reputation. He went and surprised the Cittidell of S [...]endy, the very day of his wedding, and was alwayes redoubted by his neighbours, and in most high esteem with the Princes of Germany; and it is believed, that it was chiefly he, who counselled the Prince Palatine, to take the Crown of Bohemia. After his designs, and Communications with the Marshal of B [...]ron, [Page 87]were blown up, he kept himself alwayes close in Sedan, till the King at length, came to awaken him. But his peace was quickly made, in consideration of the good, which he was to perform, and of the high enterprizes, whereof he was both the most worthy, and principall instrument. After the sad death of Henry the Great, the Prince of Conde, being returned into France, he used his utmost endeavour, to tye him to the interests of the Hughenots, by describing his to him, quite otherwise,He embroils France. then they were to be under­stood; which were in effect, to embroil the Kingdome. But the Prince would not revenge the injurie, which he pretended was done him, to the detriment of Religion, and the destruction of the poor people; which yet not long after he did, against his promise to the Queen: though yet that promise were quickly dissipated, as well as many other, which came out of the shop of his brest, more for his particular advantage, then that of the Pub­lick, which he alwayes pretended. Now, howbeit, he had been brought up in the civill wars, and factions, he yet refused the generalship,He refuses the Generalship of the Hughenot Party, 1621. Why? of all the Hughe­not Armies, which was offered him, by the Assembly of Rochell; and that upon very reasonable reasons: as first, his age: then the Gout, wherewith he was much tormented; and lastly, for the difficulty, which he was likely to find, to govern so many Heads, as composed that popular State. Let us return to the siege of Berghen.

Spinola finding his enemy recruited with so great a Body of Horse, and his owne, Army much diminished with toyle, assaults, sicknesse, and disband­ings; speedily raised the siege, for fear least the way should be stopped,Spinola raises the siege. and went, and encamped himself three leagues short of Antwerp; where having put himself in posture, and sent away his sick, and wounded men, he offered the Prince Battell; but he contenting himself with having suc­coured the Place, made answer, to some French Lords, who advised him to accept the offer; that it was better to make a golden Bridge for his enemies, then engage them in fight, which is often gained by dispaire: And so he retyred to the Hague, where he was well received by the States. Mansfeldt shewed himself likewise there, and the Bishop grew to be known, and hated, and was sometimes in danger of being well rubbed, for his former insolen­cies. But these two guests, after some consultations, quickly dislodged; for Mansfeldt, having received five thousand men from France, Mansfeldt and the French in East-Freezland The Bishop de­feated, in the year 1623. neer Statloo. was sent into East-Freezland, for fear least Tilly should come, and take up his quarters there: and the Bishop returned into Westphalia, where living after the old fashion, he was snapt neer Statloo, and most basely defeated.

With much more reason, might that have been said of Tilly, which the Emperour of Turkie, said of the French, when he heard the newes, of the huge Victorie gotten by them, upon the Venetians: namely, That they had to do with Calves. Six thousand Imperialists, cut off an Army of eighteen thou­sand men; and the Bishop, in stead of retyring himself to his Bishoprick, returned speedily into Holland, with the nimblest runners of his broken Ar­mie, to take new counsell, and recollect his scattered Troops, in the Fron­teer Towns. There were about six thousand of his men taken prisoners, and the Spanish Garrison of Grol, contributed no small matter to this entyre Victo­rie, in the year 1623. If the Bishops Souldiers used great cruelties, the Mans­feldians did not much better in Freezland; in such sort, as that good Country, which was able to maintaine above fifty thousand men, in good order, for fifteen years together, was exhausted in lesse then seven moneths;These two Gene­rals return into Holland. and the Count of Oldenbergh sound reason to complaine of them besides, as bad neigh­bours, for making excursions upon his lands. But they got not all off; and of five thousand French, there returned not twelve hundred into France, to revile their Generall, and relate the good treatment, which they had both given, and received, in these parts; all the rest being knocked in the head by [Page 88]the Peasants, Mansfeldt being rejoyned to the Bishop, with the fragments of both Armies, performed no great exploits; but being beaten againe at Frisoit, they both went back againe into Holland, where they plotted new designes against the House of Austria. But now, let us go visit the Swissers, in their Mountaines, for they will give us matter also, to discourse of them.

CHAP. XI

Description of the Cantons. BEfore we enter upon the motives of the Wars, which happened in the Grisons, we will first shew, that the Swissers area People of Germany, divided into thirteen Cantons; of whose valour, Julius Caesar, in his Commentaries of the Gawlish War, makes very honourable mention. They are shut up with­in Mountains, and great Lakes, which make their Countrey inaccessible. The Tyranny of some Governours, caused them to shake off the yoke, both of the House of Austria, The first League and their owne Nobility. Their first League was made between three Country men, or Peasants, who within a short time after, grew much augmented, by the aversion of the People, from the above­said Government. Let no man trust to his own power, and maintaine it by rigour; for enemies often come, from whence they are least expected. They have, upon the one side, the States, of the Republick of Venice, and the Dutchy of Milan; and Burgundy, Alsatia, and the Dukedome of Wirtemberg, on the other. They were long in peace, and rest, being protected by their Hills, and their pover­ty; till Charles Duke of Burgundy, at length, stirred them up, to his own con­fusion. For, having a desire to extend his domination as far as Italy, he (not­withstanding all their humble supplications, for peace, and liberty, and of­fers to serve him) brought a war upon them. Irregular ambition prepares her self a fall. Charles of Burgundie beatea. For, their humility being turned into dispair, they fell to the use of arms, which they had almost forgoten; and defeated his Army, with­out so much as almost any fighting for it, and glutted themselves in fine, with the spoiles, both of the Burgundians, and Flemmings. Since which time, their Allyance hath been sought, by the Popes, Kings, and Princes of Europ; and especially by France, Their allyance. which by keeping her self fast with them, through a yearly pension, hath drawn no small advantages from them. Let us speak a word also, of their beginnings, which are worthy consideration. They were heretofore, wont to receive their Governours, from the Emperours, by whom Justice was administred,Their beginings and their Priviledges maintained: so that they lived in peace with the Ecclesiasticks; upon whom, by donation of the said Emperours, if not all, yet a great part of them at least, de­pended.

In fine, they being a people of a strong nature, and lovers of Liberty (as all such as dwell within the mountains are) found themselves contemned by the Nobility (which, through delights, produced by great riches, was grown insolent) and from contempt, drawn into servitude; and therefore, laying hold of the opportunity, of the confusions of the Empire, they assaulted the said Nobility, and expelled it by force of Arms, and so redeemed themselves from the Yoke.

The Emperour Albert, having a great charge of Children, endeavoured [Page 89]to joyn also that, which immediately depended upon the Empyre, to what he held there already, as well by inheritance, as by donation, and purchase; but in vain: wherereupon he turned his desires into threats; but still in vain: For his Governours had used tyranny,The Governours Tyrants. and brought this people to seek entyre Liberty, by way of revenge, of some crimes committed, and some af­fronts done to some particular persons; the first whereof was to him, who had alwayes disswaded them, from putting themselves under the yoke, of the House of Austria: The second and principal, was for having attempted the chastity of a woman, a vice, which caused the Kings to be expelled from Rome; the Infidels, to enter into Spain, and whole nations, to go out of Con­quered Countries: The third was a most absurd, and ridiculous Com­mand; namely, to do reverence to the Hat of a Governour, which was at the end of a perch, when they passed by it: And it happened once, that a cer­tain follow being brought before the Governour, for having slighted this or­der, he commanded him to shoot a Apple from his childes head with an arrow, which he performed, to the great amazement of all such as were present.

The first League of three men. Now, in revenge of these, and the like cruell proceedings, a secret League was made, amongst three Husband-men; the number whereof being quickly encreased, they cunningly seazed upon the Castles, of the said Governours, and drove them out of their Country, in the year 1307. Within a short space after the Emperour Albert was assassinated, and his children, being more busie about revenging his death, then punishing the proceedings of the Switzers, left them long enough in peace. In fine, Germany being divided, by the Electi­on of two Emperours, Lewis of Bavaria, and Frederick of Austria, they (chiefly out of the jealousie they had of the said House, which they had offended) constantly adhered to the Party of Lewis, notwithstanding he were excom­municated, and made no account at all, of the Ecclesiastical Counsell, which followed Frederick.

Leopold bea­ten. Leopold, sonne to Albert, being puffed up by some Conquests, and by a fair Army, together with the motives of the expelled Lords; led his forces against the Villages, but they were defeated in the Mountaines, near Mor­garte [...]. And this victory of theirs, produced the perpetual Allyance of the three Villages, which take their names from the woods; to which the rest have likewise adjoyned themselves since, for causes, which would be too long to recite: yea, and very many Imperiall Townes near them, have also leagued themselves with them; in such sort, as that now they have no ene­my at all to fear.

The physick too strong. Now, it must be avowed, that the Physick wrought too much, and ex­ceeded the bounds of duty and justice. But ordinarily in Civill Warres, when subjects exasperated against their Governours, grow to get the upper hand, they break through all fear, and passe to another manner of Policy, as egged on, by the ambition of some particular men. Hatred furnished Arms, fury gave victory, and fear of chastisement, made them shake off the yoke of their Prince, whom they accused of having violated their Priviledges. Ambition is the moving cause, and soule of tumults, Revolts, and Changes of State; and injuries done to particular persons, are the pretexts.

The form of their Common wealth. Their Republick is composed of three Classes, or Orders; the Villages to the number of thirteen; the Associates, or Confederates; and the Towns, which depend upon their direction. Now, these Cantons have divers forms of government: for that of the Villages, is Democratical: and that of the Townes, Aristocratical. In such sort, as that this Whole, being contrived of Parts entire, of variours humours, and conditions, may well be called a mixt Common-wealth, which is kept in unity, by the onely care she hath of her own preservation.

At their Assembly, which is made by a general Convocation, to treat of Warre, Allyance, Peace, and other affaires of importance; the Embassa­dours of every Town are to meet: A form, much like that of the United Provinces, which took Arms against their Governours, and framed their Common-wealth, by the advantage of their situation, as well as they; the Sea, and the great Rivers being the same to those, which the mountaines are to these.

They serve their Allyes, with much fidelity; but if their wages once fail, they take their leave, from whence that Proverb so much quoted in France, No mony, no Switsers. They are accused of being clownish, and simple; but in requitall thereof,Their fidelity, and their ver­tue in ar [...]s. they are not stained with enormous vices (except onely drinking) as some other nations are. Above all, they detest cheatery; and their fidelity hath been much esteemed, in all times; their verue in Armes, very remarkable, as much surpassing that of the rest of the Germans; the one appearing about their Prince, and the other in the Field: however, at pre­sent (all being subject to change) it doth not much cutstrip that of other na­tions, and Francis the first, made them know, by a huge rout in the Dutchy of Milan, that they were not invincible, as themselves also manifested at the Battail of Pavia, where they could tell how to leave Play, when the Game did not please them.

Their Government (as we have already said) is in some parts Democrati­cal; and their Alliance, amongst themselves incorruptible, though it proceed rather from a common necessity of their own preservation, then from per­fect amity:the Religion. Their Religion, in some of the Cantons is only, and purely, Roman Catholick; in other, Reformed: and in some again, mingled. This Age of ours, being the most fatall, and most martiall, that ever was, hath not spared them; bloody Mars having as well skip't over their Mountains, as through the Seas, the Deserts, and vast Forrests.

The same year that that fatall scourge-bringing Torch appeared, there happened an accident to the Grisons, which sufficiently testified, that there is no place secure from destruction.

The story of the year 1618. For, upon the fourth of September, 1618. towards the evening, one of the highest Mountains, fell down by means of an Earthquake, and overwhelmed a Burgh,Pleura over­thrown by a Mountain. or little Town called Pleura, and crushed the Inhabitants in such manner, as that neither their cryes, nor groanes could be heard; no not so much as any trace, or signe at all, lest of the place.

A tumuh in the Valteline. Two yeares after, the Inhabitants of Valteline, being very ill treated by the Grisons, in the Exercise of their Religion, conspired against them, and by the help of Rodolph Plante, killed a great multitude, and beat the rest out of the Valley; and being succoured by the Spaniards (for the advancement of their own interest) made many Fortresses, for their own defence.

The Venetians jealous to see the Spaniards there. But, the Venetians, jealous of their interest, and laying aside that of Reli­gion, were terrified by seeing the Gate of Italy shut up: and the King of France also, advertised by them, of the common danger; declared his in­terest, by an Embassadour, whom he sent to Madrid, the fruit of whose negotiation produced a Promise of restitution, provided that the Roman Catholicks were entyrely assured of ther Exercise. For, the Policy of the Spaniards, is, to tye the interest of Religion to that of State, as many other Princes towards the North, also do: and upon these grounds, cold, and disinteressed Catholicks, endeavour to make them pass for Hypocrites, and perswade all the world, that under this Cloak, they will strip all Princes of their States.

Who are at­tacked by the Grisons. The Grisons, loosing their patience, in the long expectation of the depar­ture of the Spaniards, fell upon them, and were shamefully repulsed. The Arch-Duke Leopold, and the Duke of Feria, hastened thither, who compel­led [Page 91]the poor Grisons to a peace, and thereby acknowledge, that themselves alone, were not able to expell such Guests as these, who were so advantage­ously lodged.

Yet, this was not enough; for the Spaniards, though well intrenched, for they could not remain there, without continual fear: and so the quarrel was renewed, and Allyances made, to force them out: Upon which the Marquis de Cocurre entred with some Troops, and rooted them out of their Holds.

On the other side, the Savoyers, joyned with the French, under the con­duct of that famous Constable, de l' Edigniores; brought a warre, into the State of Genoa. took many Towns, and gave an Alarme to all Italy. But this fine appearance, being stopped by a misfortune, made the Troops return, as being destinated for a supply, against the Duke of Soubize, and obliged the King, by the request of the Pope, to give peace to Italy, The Valteline in the hands; of the Pope. and sequester the Val­teline into his hands; save only that both the Kings, were to have their pas­sage with their forces that way.

About the same time, there was discovered a Conspiracie against the King of France, and the Duke of Vandosme his Brother, the great Priour, the Mar­shall d' Ornano, and many others put in prison, where the two last ended their dayes, without much noise: and the Count of Chulois, by the hands of a Common Executioner. These accidens raised much hatred upon Cardinal Richelieu, and produced many Pasquils against him. Envy and Harred, are ever companions to the vertue of great Ministers; and their actions are never free from blame.

CHAP. XII. Mansfeldt hunts every where for relief, and sets an Army on foot. The Marriage of the Prince of Wales, with a Daughter of France, after his return out of Spain.

HAnnibal, was no sooner out of his infancy, then he vowed the ruine of the Romanes, and being revoked from Italy, after he had domineered there the space of seventeen yeares, to save Carthage, he there ran his ship a ground, which had been loaden with so many victories, against the great Scipio. But now, what did he, when all the strings of his Bow were bro­ken? He made to his wits, for new ones. He remembred his Oath, begged succour, animiated the Kings of the East, against the insatiable ambition of the Romanes, and continued his hatred, even to the very last gasp of his breath.

Mansfeldt, and his Bishop seemed to have taken the like Oath, against the House of Austria, and by consequence, for the continuance in action against it, they must have new forces. Holland could furnish them with matter, conveniency, money, and hatred enough; England, with desire enough, to see Frederick again in the Palatmate; and France, with jea­lousie enough, in regard of the growth of the aforesaid House.

There wanted no bellowes to kindle this fire; mens humours being alrea­dy disposed that way, by diversity of Religions, hatred, envy, self-ends, and Maxime of State; a Cover, which is never, either too long, or too short, and stronger then even Justice it self.

But now, as these Captains had not so much trouble to perswade, as that Great Affrican; so had they notwithstanding to do, with people of much bet­ter understanding, then those Barbarians. They went into France, where [Page 92] Mensfeldt received some affronts, from some particular persons, for ill treat­ments given the French in Freezland. Mansfeldt de­mands succour in France. However, he obtained his demand: namely, some Force; the Minister, who then began to climb the Hori­zon of favour, being now no more mindfull of the services both asked by, and granted to the Imperialists, before Sedan, in case of necessity, Maximes of State are more forcible then obligations, and Ministers turn their Allyances that way, which their passions carry them.

Now, King James, though by the negotiations with Spain, he had disgu­sted many of the Reformed Religion, shewed himself neverthelesse willing to have as good intelligence with the Catholick States, as the King of France had, with the Protestant, and so he sent Prince Charles his Sonne into Spain, to espouse the Infanta Mary: but, after the losse of much time, he came back into England, and demanded in France (through which he had passed dis­guised) the Kings Sister, who was more easily granted him.

Men have laboured, to penetrate into the Mystery of this Treaty; but all, by conjecture only. The Roman Catholicks of England, who began al­ready to feel some warmth of the businesse, were extremely afflicted, at the breach of the aforesaid Match; and the misfortune which befell them, was a testimony of the perpetuall Crosse, which was ordained for them, in the Britannick Islands:A misfortune at London. for, being met in a private Assembly at London, to hear masse, the Loft, overburthened by the multitude, sunk down, and bruised near a hundred persons, together with the Priest.

When the aforesaid Prince had married the Daughter of Henry the fourth, and sister to Lewis the thirteenth, he, and his Father, undertook the care of re-establishing his Brother-in-Law, in the Palatinate: In such sort, as that Mansfeldt had no great difficulty to transport ten thousand English into Holland, who almost all of them perished at Gerthrudenbergh, and served for bait to the Fish.

The French Cavalry, consisting of three thousand, did likewise, no very long service: for, the Generalls marching towards the Rhein, and torment­ing the Arch-Bishop, after their old fashion, their Army diminished much, by disbandings; and themselves fell into a quarrel, which had almost brought them to a Duell: though at last, they returned into Holland, and went from thence to the North, to warm those people against the Emperour.

The Spaniards passe the Isel. Upon the seventeenth of February, 1624. the Spaniards passed upon the Ice, over the River Isel, and caused a terrour, as faire as Holland. Whereup-the Prince was constrained again to lay about him, and pass to Ʋirick: and the States, to command the Country-people to break the Ice of the River of Vecht.

But Count Henry expected neither his enemies, nor the thaw, which would have made him to be caught in a Pit-fall; but retyred himself much faster then he came, and many of his souldiers found their graves in the Ri­ver of Welaw. His designe was, to fright the Peasants, and not to hurt the States.

CHAP. XIII. The Siege of Breda. The Enterprizes upon Antwerp.

SPinola was every moment devising, now to wipe off by some no­table enterprize, the affront he had received before Berghen. He marched into the field, sent Count Henry towards the Rheyn, who made a shew of besieging Grave; and Count John of Nassaw, with the Horse towards Breda; who, at his arrivall, took a great multitude of Boats, loaden with Provisions. Himself followed with the Foot: and in his Councell of War, there was found no more then one Colonell, who thought fit to begin the siege;The siege of Breda. and that upon the same reasons, whereby Spinola himself was moved to it.

On the other side, the Prince of Orange, glad to see his Rivall en­gaged, before a place so well provided of all necessaries, as also of a strong Garrison, did not so soon dispose himself to succour it, but gave the Spaniards leisure to entrench themselves, and they him to repent him­self of it.

But he hoped, by the successe of his designe upon Antwerp, long be­fore premeditated in his thoughts, and held by him infallible;The enterprize upon the Castle or Cittadell of Antwerp. to un­nestle them from thence, and cast their state into an irremediable con­fusion.

He was well informed, that there were but very few Souldiers in the Cittadell, and they, for the most part, dismembred, and cripled. Wherefore, he sent some Troops, which made a shew of coming from the Camp before Breda, as carrying the same Motto's and Colours, which Spinola carried; they arrived undiscovered, to the very Mote, applyed their Ladders; and set all their rare Engynes on work, to ren­der themselves Masters of the Place; whereof they could not have fail­ed, had not their own hearts failed them first. For one Who goes there of the Sentinell, followed by the discharge of a Musket, made theirs fall our of their hands, and left them no more courage then onely to fly.

It was thought, that he had a mind to bestow the honour of this expediti­upon the Hollanders, whom he onely employed in it; and that if he had mingled any of the other nations with them, the businesse would have issued to his contentment.

This newes struck the Marquis almost into a feaver; and sent the Prince loaden with Melancholy, to the Hage, where towards the end of the winter, he died, leaving his Army to his brother Henry Frederick, and Spinola before Breda; who, seeing no meanes to take it by force, resolved to famish it.

A former enter­prize upon the same Cittadell. The aforesaid Prince, had had a former enterprize, upon the said Cittadell, and held himself so sure of it, that he told the Burgoma­sters of Dort, at his departure, that none but God could hinder it: And indeed, he was no sooner embarked, but there arose so violent, and so [Page 86]extreamly cold a tempest, that it put both his life and his Fleet in danger; and so he was forced to return.

God hath put limits to Victories, which cannot be passed by humane wisdome.

Spinola, having sufficiently learnt, how needfull it was to be vigilant, with an enemy who slept not; reinforced the Garrison of the aforesaid Cittadell; kept himself fast in his trenches before Breda, expecting the consumpsion of the Provisions of the Town; and made magazin for the Winter; and being advertised besides, that the Enemy was assembling some forces, and that four Kings had interested themselves in this Siege: He sent for some Regiments, from the Empe­rour.

Uladislaus, Prince of Poland before Breda. Prince Ʋladislaus, since King of Poland, came to see this famous siege, and was received by the whole Army, with such military honours, as were due to the Sonne of a King, and a very great Captaine.

The King of Spaine having foreseen this tempest, which was contrived against his Low-Countries, and being unwilling, to hazard the whole, for one piece thereof; wrote to his Aunt, that it was better to leave the siege, then obstinately to persist, in the impossibility of taking the Towne, with the losse of all her States.

This savoured well with the Emulators of the said Marquis, as Don Lewis de Velasco, &c.

A Magazin burnt. There happened also another misfortune, which was, that the Hollander, fired a Magazin, which would have staggered any other General, but such a one as he; who quickly requited this losse, and by his vigilancie, repulsed the English, who with a most martiall courage, went to attack a Quarter of his Camp.

Breda copi­tulates. In fine, after a Siege of ten moneths, Breda was yeelded; and it happen­ed the very same day that the Kings Letters arrived, with his absolute com­mand, to draw off the Army.

We left the King of Poland, with his Nobility, marching against the great Turk; and therefore let us now look what the Swedes, in the mean while, are doing. Gustavus laid hold of that occasion; passed an army into Livonia; and after the siege of five weeks, to the great trouble of the Citi­zens, took Riga.

The Swedes take Riga. The Polanders hereupon, made loud complaints of him, for beginning the Warre, just when they were busied, against the Common Enemy: and for breaking the Truce; in the articles whereof it was comprized, that the one of the Kings should not enter into the Lands of the other, without ha­ving denounced the War, three moneths before.

To which, the Swedes made answer, that they had sent their Embassa­dours;And m [...]k at the complaints of the Foles and that they were not able to dispatch their Commissions any sooner, being hindered by windes, and tempests; which were to be accused, and not they: a trick of War, which must be made passe for good, accord­ing to the Maximes of this Age.

In short, this occasion was favourable to the Swedes, who cared as much for their reasons, as Monsieur de Montmorancy did, for those of the Ma­gistrates of Metz, when he was gotten into possession of their Towne. This War was finished by a Truce, whereby the Swedes were obleiged to return by Sea, after they had well fortifyed Riga, with intention never to restore it againe.

Now, the Electour Palatine, after being spoiled of his States, was deprived also of his Dignities, and his Electorat transferred upon the Duke of Bavaria, his Cosin, 1623. which much augmented hatred, against the Emperour, [Page 95]Duke Maximilian, and all the Catholicks; and caused, in fine, many new Allyances to be made, which put spurts to the War we are going to discribe, in this next Book.

The Electour Palatin spoiled of his States, and banished. This Prince was crowned King of Bohemia, the fourteenth of November. 1619. in the moneth of January following, he made his Allyances; and in the same year also, he lost his Kingdome, and his States, was proscri­bed by the Emperours Edict, and his Coronation declared Null. He who grasps much, holds little; and it often falls out, that whilest we are in pursute of other mens good, we lose our owne.

CHAP. I

GEneral Mansfeldts arguments, had as much ef­ficacy in the North, as they had towards the South; because the dangers, which seemed to threaten that Country, were grown greater, and besides, a Prince which becomes potent, makes himself both feared, and hated. Tilly wintered in Hassia, in despight of the Landgrave Maurice, nor were the States of Low-Saxony a little trou­bled, to see the Imperiall Eagles fluttering up and down upon their fronteers; and that not without giving them great incovenience; besides, that they feared, lest they should peradventure come to replant their old authority there.

The King of Denmark, together with many other Princes, and States thereabouts, were moved to much impatience, by the ruine of Frederick; as apprehending, lest these Guests should come, and take up their lodging amongst them. Wherefore being advertised by common danger, and by that, which themselves, perhaps, would have done, if they had had the same power, and right which the Emperour had, they made a League for the de­fence of the Circle of the Lower Saxony, into which entred the Kings of Eng­land, France, and Sweden; together with the States Generall, and the King of Denmark himself was the Head,A League a­gainst the Em perour. as being General of the said Circle. The Dukes of Brunswick, Mekelenburgh, and Holstein; the Administratour of Magdeburgh, and the Bishop of Bremen, subscribed also to it.

The Emperours forces, in the mean while, grew strong, and Tilly began to smell, that under the mask of amity, there were some new designes a brew­ing; however they protested, that they were doing nothing against the Em­perour. But he answered, that the Embassadours of the States of Holland, were not there,Tilly in Hastis. to thred pearles; and that he was sure, that nothing was treated to his Masters advantage, where they had any credit; and conse­quently, for a greater testimony of his diffidence, he sent for Wall [...]stain, with [Page 97]an Army, to come and succour him. Causes lye hidden, under pretexts drawn from necessity, and justice, but they are easily discovered, by people of the same profession.

Many Prodigies preceded the fatall warres; as Armies fighting in the Ayre, raining of Blood, great Tempests; bearing down Trees, Houses, and Dammes.

But that, which was by all interpreted for an ill Augure, or Token, was, that the King going one evening to walk upon the Rampars,The Prodigies. or Walls of the Town of Hamelen, to visit the Sentinels, his horse stumbled at a plank, and threw him into the Mote or Ditch, out of which he was drawne two houres after, and conceived to be dead, for more then three dayes to­gether.

In the mean while, they who laid most to heart, the love of their Coun­try, and Rest, employed all diligence, to find a means to reconcile this Dif­ference, thereby to divert the misfortune, wherein all Lower Saxony was likely to be involved. To which effect, a Treaty of Peace was held at Bruns­wick, and it was already agreed, that the Armies should be licensiated,They treat of peace in vain. by Regiments; to wit, that the King should casheer the first, Tilly the next, and so consecutively by turnes, to the end. But this Treaty was broken off by ambition, and so, such advantages as could not be reaped thereby, were sought by way of Arms. The Gamester is more willing to hazard another mans money, then his own.

I will note only the principal actions of the warre, and content my selfe with saying, that it is very probable, that the Emperour had a design, to make his Authority, and Religion flourish afresh, in those Countries, where there was no more left, then a faint, and languishing knowledge thereof; and,The ayne of the League. that mingled with coldness, contempt, and hatred. But as for the contrary Party, they endeavoured, not onely to repell the aforesaid Guest, but also by vertue of the Allyance, to restore the Prince to his States, by force of Arms, since it could not be done by intercessions; and so, in fine, deliver all the Princes, from the jealousie which was given them by this House, puffed up with so many victories.

The King retyred with his Army, as farre as the Bishopprick of Werden, and thereby gave the Imperialists opportunity to seaze upon many places: But Fortune varied at Niemburgh, from which Town, after the losse of a ve­ry great number of their men, they were constrained to retreat, though yet the said losse, were repayred shortly after, by the taking of Calembergh, and the defeating of some companies of Dragoons.

Tilly followes the River of Weser, and Wallenstein, that of the Elbe. Wallenstein followed the River of Elbe, and Tilly, that of Weser, who having occupated the Bishopprick of Hall, entred the Dutchy of Anholt, and forti­fied the Bridge of Dassaw. Mansfeldt attacked this Fort, and being repulsed, joyned with the Administratour of Hall, to besiege that Town. Wallenstein hastened thither; so they fell to work: and the Fight, as well through the valour of the souldiers, as the experience of the Generals, was long time dubious enough, but at last, the Horse giving ground, the Foot found themselves reduced to the necessity of doing the same; and such as could not save themselves by flight, were either killed, or taken,

Mansfeldt beaten near the bridge of Das­saw. In this memorable Battell at the Bridge of Dassaw, all Mansfeldts glory was buried; howsoever he lost not his courage by so furious an overthrow, but having gotten on foot, a fresh Army of sixteen thousand men, (for Germany, and the Septemtrion were yet full of brave Souldiers) he drew towards Sile­sia, took in some places, passed thence into Transylvania, where he gave up his Army to the Duke of Wimar; and accompanied by some of his principall Officers, put himself in the way towards Venice; but a Dysentery, or Bloody Flux, or rather (according to the opinion of some) a Potion, stopped the [Page 98]course of his journey,His death. designes, and life, altogether; and delivered the Emperour from a troublesome Enemy: and the Duke of Wimar also a short space after, followed him, not to Venice, but to the other world. Thus end­ed the life, of this famous General, who had been fortunate enough in raising Armies, but not in fighting Battels.

Wallenstine, having stifled the War of Transylvania, marched back into Sile­sia, dissipated Wimars Troops, and retook the occupated places: And Baudis, and Holck, being sent to joyne with the said Duke, were cut off by Merode, and Beckman: So that Wallenstein, having put an end to all their disorders, returned towards Brunswick.

Tilly being intent upon the occasions of hurting his enemies, went, and unexpectedly attacked a Quarter commanded by that Valiant Souldier Obertrawt; who, together with one of the Dukes of Anholt, and some hun­dreds of Souldiers,Obertrawt killed. was slaine in this encounter; and when Tilly went to visit, and comfort him, he answered him, Monsieur de Tilly, in such waters, are taken such fish.

Now the King finding himself in great danger, by the losse of Mansfeldt, and the Bishop of Halberstadt, (who died at the same time, at Wolfenbottel, after he had vomited up a Worm of about four ells long) did not yet lose his courage.The death of the Bishop of Halbersiadt. Nature shews her strength in despair, and Vertue hers, in extremity. He saw two Armies upon his skirts, to be opposed by him, and therefore he resolved to attack the one of them, being more inflamed to vengeance, by the losse of Munden, which he slighted, and the furious blow, which was gi­ven his Cavalrie, by Count Furstembergh. But, he was a little too tardy, in going to drive Tilly from the siege of Gothing: Besides that he stayed at Luther, against the advice of his Lieutenant Generall Fucks: and Tilly, thereby to make himself as glorious as Wallenstein, desired nothing more earnestly, then to slight.

I fine, the Battell was given with so much obstinacie, that the old Bands, which had been accustomed to vanquish,Battell of Lu­ther the twen­ty seventh of August, 1626. began almost to stagger towards flight; but their time was not yet come, and the puissant Gemus of their Ge­nerall, had a great advantage upon that of the King; who perceiving his Horse fly, and not being able, either by his presence, or exhortations, to de­taine them: was compelled to abandon his Foot, to the mercy of the Ene­my, and retyre himself as fast as he could gallop, to Wolfenbottel. This was a great and bloody Fight, and the Imperialists remained entirely vi­ctorious in it.

The Victory of the Imperialists and the death of Generall Fucks Brave Generall Fucks, who had disswaded the Battell, lost his life in this occasion, and gave the King sufficient testimony, that it was not through basenesse of heart or cowardize, but upon strong arguments, that he desired him not to precipitate. Many other Officers were also slain, together with above six thousand Souldiers: Thirty Pieces of Canon, three thousand Pri­soners, fourscore and ten Colours, adorned the Conquerours Chariot; and all the booty was given to the Souldiers, in recompence of their Va­lour.

This was that famous Battell of Luther, which happened upon the 27^th. of August, whereby the Emperours authority, and the joy of his Allyes was much augmented, and their Enemies fear redoubled: and after this there followed a continuall thred of Victories, and taking of Towns, even to the very sea-side. Favour flatters Fortune, and when there is no more meanes lest, to make open resistance against the storme, the sailes must be taken in, or the Vessel steered for safety, to the shelter of some Wood, or Rock.

The Duke of Brunswick quitts the League. The Duke of Brunswick followed this Maxime, by making his Peace, and renouncing the League with Saxonie. Tilly lost no time, seized upon Rotem­burgh, and many other places; whilest the King recollected the fragments [Page 99]of his Army, and put it in Equipage, during the Winter, but to no purpose, For this vessell was too much tottered, to do any more service at all.

In conclusion, Tilly having taken Nontheen, drew neer the River of Elbe, which was also to be conquered, after the conquest of so many enemies. But, we leave France too long in Peace, which yet was not all this while quiet.

CHAP. II

The Duke of Soubize takes some shipps. WE have already shewed, how the Peace was made in Italy, as well upon the request of the Pope, as to put a remedy, to the inopinated Invasion of the Duke of Soubize; who against all expectation, and in full peace, launched with a Fleet from Rochell, came before the Port of Blavet, and seized upon some ships, which he found there. But, the Duke of Van­dosme, who was Governour of the Province, transported himself thither, with so much promptitude, that he hindred the aforesaid Duke from making any farther progresse, and forced him to retyre, with two or three great Vessels, and some of a middle burthen. In such sort, as that by this invasion,The peace is broken. the Peace, which was made in the year 1622, before Montpellier, was broken, in that of 1625, and the Duke of Rohan his brother, recommenced the Warre in earnest, both in High, and Low Languedock, under pretext that the Trea­ty of Peace had been ill observed.

The King sends an Embassadour to the Hague. This surprize so much displeased the King, that he forth with sent all those Troops which were destinated for Italy, towards Brittany, and an Embassa­dour to the Hague, to summon the States, to his assistance, with twenty ships, according to the tenour of the Allyance made betwixt them. But, the Em­bassadour found some repugnance in the Colledge of the said States, in re­spect of Religion; though yet, when he had remonstrated to them, that the businesse was onely to humble the Kings subjects to their obedience, and threatened them also with a breach, in case of refusall, they granted his de­mand. My Master (sayes he) is of the same Faith with the King of Spaine, and yet, he maketh no difficulty to assist you against him. And will you in a Warre of State, expresse an inconsiderable zeale of Religion?

He obtaines twenty shipps. Soubize being beaten retyres into England Hereupon, the States dispatched Admirall Hantain, who being joyned with the Kings Navie, carried himself like a Mediatour of a Reconcilliati­on, and obtained a Truce of three dayes, which yet, was ill enough kept by Soubize, who hoped to draw some advantage from it, but his Fleet was de­feated, and he forced to retyre into England, with six or seven vessels, and so the French took the Island of St. Martin, and built two Forts there.

The King, upon the intercession of the States, pardoned them of Rochell, but the Zelanders did not pardon Admirall Hautain, who had for his recom­pence [Page 100]his house demolished, by the people, which were mad at the losse of the said Place. But these were ruled by the passion of Religion; and those, by that of the preservation of the State. The reason why Monsieur de Sou­bize, brake the Peace, was, because the King had differred the demolish­ment of Fort Lewis, raised near Rochell, which served for a bridle to the Town, and a Prospective to the Townsmen. But the Governour in­deed, refused to do it, upon some informations which he had received from the Town of some sinister designes.

In fine, the Fort still remained entyre, for all this, and was to prove fatall to the Party, illustrate the Kings Majesty throughout all France, and cut off the root of all Religion: It was believed, that the Duke of Rohan, had begged succour from the King of Spaine, in this discord of the Reformates, and his own, and his brothers disaster; but being pressed by the King of England, the Venetians, the Hollanders, and the Savoyers, he expected not the return of his Embassadour,The Peace is made by an al­lyance against the Emperour. and so upon the instance of the aforesaid King and States, who could not indure the ingrandishment of the Imperiall Majesty in Germany, the Peace was renewed, the same year thas it was broken, and the League was knit up in Denmark (as we have lately said) in the year 1625. But before that warre, which was fatall to the Danes, was finished, be­gan the disorders, which thrust themselves in, between the French and English: the reason whereof, as also of the third warre, which consummated the ruine of the Reformed Party, you shall forthwith understand.

King James a peaceful Prince King James, jealous of his Royall authority, and more prone to study then fight, could never be induced, to assist the Hughenots in France. But after his decease, King Charles his sonne, by the reasons of Monsieur de Soubize, and his Favourite, the Duke of Buckingham, suffered himself to be perswaded to it; manifesting thereby, in imitation of his Brother in Law, that that Friend­ship, which grew from the allyance of marriage, was weaker, then that of interest.

There wanted no pretexts, as well of Religion, as otherwise; and the English being already pricked against the French, and these against them, for the bad treatment of the Priests, and Officers of the Queen, they were easily brought to break, as well by the arguments of Soubize, as of the whole Body together:The English enter the Isle of Ray 1627. and so the English Fleet, made a descent, or disembarkment in the Isle of Ray, in the moneth of July, of the year 1627, and besieged the Fort of St. Martin, which was not yet quite finished.

This Warre, which in outward appearance, had no other scope at all, then that of Religion, with many other petty punctilios, which merited not so much as an ill look from either to the other, proved fatall to the Eng­lish, and glorious to the French, Are beaten off with shame. by the enterance which they made into the Island, and the chase they gave their Enemies, from thence: but yet more glorious to Monsieur de Toir as, who defended the Fort neer four moneths, both against them and famine; and most glorious, to the Marshal of Scho­enbergh, who put in the succour, and forced them, after they were lustily beaten, to retyre to their ships. So that, upon the matter, the English went away with the shame, and the Rochelers stayed, with the losse. And this warre, helped to forward the King of Denmarks ruine, in regard that these Kings gave him not the assistance they had promised him, by the Contract, and so he struck a ground.

Rochell. The Confederated States, after the reduction of Rochel, were saine to hear, as well the reproaches, and calumnies of the whole Body of the Hughenots of France, as the taunts, and raylings of the English, Where blinde Passion rules, there is no roome for Reason. For it was not their fault, that this difference was not decided by some other meanes, then that of armes. But let us now note the successe of this siege.

Rochell, is a Town situated in the Country of Asins, which is grown to have great traffick, and riches, through the convenienie of the Haven,The growth of the Towne. and by consequence insolent, against the Kings authority.

The Inhabitants mutined, under Francis the first, but as soon as they saw him in Arms, and that he would be obeyed, their audacity quickly turned into humility.

After they embraced the Reformed Religion, they became by little and little, so powerfull, and so considerable, that the Kings through that the necessity of their affaires, were often obliged, to make a shew, not to see, or connive at that, which was not invisible to any. When we cannot correct Vice, we must seem to be ignorant of it.

For, having the principall Key of the Kingdome, they made them­selves chief of the Party, and all such as for any discontentment, absented themselves from Court, and bent themselves against the King, and his Authority, could never faile to be welcome unto Rochell.

It is besieged by Henry the 3. They were once besieged by Monsieur, who was afterwards Henry the Third: but, upon request of the Embassadours of Poland, the siege was drawn off, just at the time when they were in hazard of being tamed.

But, since that, their strength, together with their Intelligence, both with­in, and without the Kingdome is so much augmented; they have relyed up­on their fortifications, and have subtracted themselves from the yoke, nor more nor lesse, then the Imperiall Towns have done, from that of the Emperour.

Cardinall Rechelieu, having gotten full possession of the Kings favour, for having dissipated some tumults, and found out the Mine (whereof the Count of Chalais payd the whole score, as a Complice, for all the rest) had no more left to do, then to acquire also that of the Clergie, and Peo­ple, by some remarkable service to the State, whereof he could not faile, by the reduction of Rochell.

And then by Lewis the 13. in the year, 1627. Now, the King being informed, of the descent of the English in the Isle of Ray, commanded his Troops to march, and as soon as he was recovered of a dangegous sicknesse, which he had at that time, he made them also in­trench, and advance all the shipps of France, to stop the Haven, even the Spaniards themselves, comming to take possession of the place, which the Hollanders had left, under a specious pretext of mending their Vessels.

The Damme being perfected, and the shipps sunk, in the deepest, and hol­lowest place of the Channell, the besieged were reduced to a famine, which exceeded that of Jerusalem.

All their hope was in the English; and Buckingham made all the haste he could to succour them, who had furnished him with victualls for his Army, and now with most instant, and urgent supplications, begged some back a­gaine from him: but he being assassinated by a certaine Englishman, Buckingham killed by Felton. called Felton, who went expresly out of Holland, to sacrifice him to the hatred of the People, the Fleet was retarded.

This murderer committed this fact, by the meer, and onely impulse of zeal, to the Religion, and so, by thinking to forward the businesse, he hin­dered it.

We very often aspire, to that which is against us, and reject that which is for us.

This Duke of Buckingham, had entirely disposed of King James, and was no lesse in the favour of the King his Sonne: though neither his good coun­tenance, nor his gracefull carriage, nor his liberality, nor his courtesie, was [Page 102]ever able to winne the People, who held him still, for the Authour of all imaginable mischief to the Kingdom.

The Reason of State, whereby Princes main­taine. Now, the King of England being in some misunderstanding with his Brother in Law, the King of France, sent the Lord Montalgue, to the Dukes of Lorraine and Savoy, to animate them to a powerfull diversion, thereby to withdraw him from this siege.

What cannot reason of State work upon Princes, who ought to have a care to pre­serve their interests, by all rationall meanes?

By this same reason, have the Kings of France maintained the Hollanders and the Protestants. By this, might it seem lawful to these two Princes, to passe by the consideration of Religion: By this do the Swissers, and the Venetians. uphold themselves. And the two aforesaid, knew well enough, that the French having fastened this pinne, would not, faile to trouble their Neighbours, upon the very first occasion, since there wanted no pretext; be­sides that perswasion, whereby some flatterers will needs make them be­lieve, that all Europe belongs to them.

The Cardinall, to whom all these plots, and practises were not unknown, as having his Pensioners in England, as well as elsewhere, provided him­self for them.

The Aequinoctiall brought the Fleet, which was to break the Damm, and put some food into the famished Towne.The Damm.

The Nobility posted thither, to serve their King, and purchase glory. All was hemmed in with Artillery and Souldiers: and the passage so stopped, as well by the said Damm, and variety of Engines, as also by the Vessels; that the English not seeing any meanes to penetrate, re­tyred.

The Rochelers, of whom there was not above the tenth part left (so much were they wasted with hunger) rendered themselves into the hands of their King,Rochell being starved yields. who took them into his mercy, and granted them the free exercise of their Religion: but he discharged his just choler, upon the Bastions, and Works, which he caused to be thrown down.

Never had the Hughenots a more sensible losse then this, nor ever had the Catholicks a more gratefull Victorie. Nor was the Cardinall with­out his share thereof; the French every where singing his praises, raising him to Heaven; making him their Angel Guardian, and even a God upon earth.

But, this love was quickly changed, and this second Tiberius made them feel, that he was a Fox, and governed himself meerly by the Maxims of Machiavell.

CHAP. III. The prosecution of the Warre of Denmark, unfortunate to the Danes. Wallenstein in vain besieges Stralsund. The Peace made.

Tilly passes the Elbe. SInce we have left Tilly near the Elbe, let us march on with him, and see what resistance he findes. The terrour was so universal, that every body fled: yea, the souldiers themselves forsook their Canon, Forts, Arms, and Baggage, at the very name of this great General. Only the Marquis of Dourlac presumed to face about; but the Count of Slick quickly made him turn his back, and stick to his heels. The number of the Gunnes, and Colours, much illustrated this victory. There were no more left,Dourlac, Ca­lembergh, and Nell are bea­ten. then the Generals Calem­bergh and Nell, who being found intrenched, were invested by the said Slick, and having no hope at all of succour, yeelded themselves to him. Three thousand horse, and two Regiments of Foot took part with the Conquerors. But, the Generals having gotten possession of Holstein, and Iutland, there re­mained yet some Townes to be subdued; so that it was necessary to divide the forces, to accomplish the work, Papenheim was before Wolfenbottel, which after it been long blocked up, opened him the Gates.

Nerbrot defea­ted by Anholt. There chanced yer another misfortune in the Countrey of Bremen, which drove the Allyes quite out of the Field: and it was, that General Nerbrot was attacked, and without scarce having fought for it, utterly routed by Anholt; so great power had fear, upon such as were staggered by the pu­issant Genius of victorious Tilly; and the souldiers being deserted by their General, forgot their duty, and embraced that party, to which Fortune most inclined. What strange felicity had this man? yea, even higher then that of Iulius Caesar himself, since he could more clearly and truly say, I came, I saw, and I overcame.

Townes besieged by the Imperia­lists. The Armies finding now no more Armies to combat, were employed about the taking of Towns; by the resistance whereof, many souldiers, and much time was lost; and leasure given the King, to fortify himself in the Isles of Funds, and Zeland. Stade, after a huge opposition, yeelded to Tilly; and Newburgh to the Duke of Brunswick. The Imperialists attempted severall times to passe to the Islands, but were repulsed with losse. God had put bounds to their victories, and would not suffer this generous Prince to be quite dispoyled of his kingdom.

The Conquerors in Meckelen­burgh. The Dukes of Meckelenburgh took part with the King; for Fate, it seems, would needs involve them in the same disasters: But, at the arrivall of the Imperial Troops, all gave way, all stooped; the Towns opened their Gates, to receive Garrisons, and their purses, to sweeten the insolencies of the victo­rious souldiers. A hard condition, for that poor people, who had so long en­joyed the sweet fruits of Peace! But who can resist against the cruel lot of Destiny?

Having recovered some ships, they tryed for the last time, to passe, and re-invest the poor King; but were soundly cudgelled, and compelled to make towards Pomerama, which was already conquered, except Stralsund, and Steene: the former whereof being a Maritime Town, was besieged by Arnhem, upon the command of his Generall. And here it was, that For­tune made the Imperialists confesse, that if they could domineer by land;Wallenstein besieges Stral­sund in vain. their enemies could do as much, upon the water, For Wallenstein thought to terrify the besieged, by frequent Assaults; but not being able to hinder the [Page 104]entrance of the ships, he lost an infinity of good souldiers, his own labour, and some part also of his glory. There was a rumour scattered, as if he had van­ted, that he would take Stralsund, The King ha [...] ­cen again. even though it were hung in the ayer, and tyed with Iron chaines.

The King regained courage, and footing in Pomerania, but found still, that Fortune was yet but his Step-mother; as suffering him again to be benten near Wolgast; so that he could do no more, then re-inforce the besieged, who were ready to yeeld, and retyre himself into Denmark.

Canipo was forced by famin; and there it was, that the French, who came to succour the King, manifested their valour. Gelucstat, a strong place upon the River below Hamburgh, was long time beleaguered in vain by Tilly, who lost both his time, and his labour, about that; as Wallenstein did his, before Stralsund.

In fine, a Peace was treated; and a Warre finished in five moneths, which had lasted five yeares.Peace made. 1629. The King abandoned by almost all his Allyes, (who had work enough at home) with a Royall and indemptable heart, employ­ed all his abilities, and industry, not only to defend his Islands, but also to expell his enemies out of Holstein. But the peace concluded at Lubec, put a period to all his troubles; dislodged the Imperialists (since they had lost the hope of conquering the whole Kingdom) out of his Territories; and freed all the North, from the danger whereby it was threatned, of a change, both in Church, and State.

By this Peace (which a certain French Writer terms shameful for the Conquerours, as being with intention to dispossess a Catholick Prince of his lawfull succession) the King renounced the Provinces of Saxony, and so the amity between the two Princes was renewed. The Emperour writing to the King, told him formally, that their quarrel proceeded from nothing, but the craft and practises of some certain Merchants.

The States Generall, being fearfull, left by so many losses heaped together, and the felicity which accompanied this valorous Count, the Imperialists should gain Zeland, The Hollanders will defend the Sound. and make themselves Masters of that famous Streight, which is of so much consequence; offered to defend it with their ships. But the most desired newes of the Peace, and Retreat, stifled all these ap­prehensions. Whatsoever was past, was sunk into the gulph of oblivion; all setled, is it had been, before the Warre; and the Emperour gave suffici­ent testimony, that he knew as well how to restore, and pardon, as to van­quish; and that he had taken armes, to defend the Majesty of the Empyre, and his own Authority; not to strip the King of his kingdoms.

This Peace was received by all the Subjects of the King, as a speciall grace sent them from God: but that, which was deplorable in it, was, that he was forced to abandon the cause of his Cousins, the Dukes of Meckelenbergh; who, for having embraced his, and followed his Party (or rather, for having conjoyned their armes with all the members of the Circle) were proclaimed Out-lawes,The Dukes of Meckel [...]n­bergh excluded from Peace. Their Dutchy given to Wal­lenstein. and their Dutchy ingaged to Wallenstein, who was afterward put in possession thereof as true Duke, by the Emperour. This proceeding, as be­ing very rigorous against Princes, of so ancient, and so illustrious a Family, and totally contrary to Ferdinands clemency, made the House of Austria suspected, not only of intending to establish her Authority in the North, but of making also the very Empire it self Hereditary, and to go yet farther too, if occasion were offered. And this, upon the matter, was partly the cause of the Swedish warre, as we shall shortly demonstrate. But let us go into Au­stria, where we shall find very fine house-keeping.

CHAP. IV

VVHilest all the North trembled at the Imperial Eagles, and that nothing but the salt ayer of the Ocean was able to stop, either their flight, or their victories: behold a little spark in Austria, both con­temptible, and contemned, raised within a few moneths, such an embaras­ment, as frighted that invincible Monarch, at the same time that all the Princes began (with good reason) to apprehend him, through the constant felicity of his Generalls. These disorders were caused by diversity of Reli­gion, and the Politicians, together with such as aspired to change, moved them on to that point, which we are now going to describe.

The cause of the Revolt of the Peasants. Ferdinand, being a very zealous Prince, thought it his duty to draw, either by fair meanes or foul, all his Subjects to the Roman Catholick Religion; and his Councell alledged, that his Authority would still be wavering, as long as there should be any Hereticks in his States. And so it was facil to perswade him, to a thing which hè conceived to depend upon his consci­ence. Whereupon he commanded all his Subjects, either forthwith to em­brace the Catholick Religion, or depart out of Austria, within a certain term prescribed them. A bold resolution, and found strange opposition. He declared in his Letters Pattents, that Heresie, under the pretext of Liberty of Conscience, and Priviledges, hatched nothing in her bosome, but Re­volts, Sedition, and Devices to shake off the yoke of Soveraigns, and law­full Magistrates. Princes look upon the interest of State, and the People, that of Religion; which once lost, farewell all respect with it. The Peasants must there­fore be stirred up, to try if luck would turn, and whether Fortune would be alwayes fixed with a Diamant-Nayle. Complaints were rejected; Count Hebersdorf, the inexorable executor of this importunate and unseasonable Command, was first chased away with stones, and afterwards fury affoar­ded other weapons. For the said Peasants, to the number of ten thousand, cut off his forces, seazed upon many Castles, and small Places; and being at lenth, re-inforced by forty thousand men, and forty Peeces of Ordnance, pillaged all Austria, sparing neither Priest, Monk, nor Gentleman. The Clergy hath ever served as Fee, or prey to the seditious.

The Emperour wrote to them; but they, endeavouring to obtain by force, what was denied to their supplication, disdained to answer him. Up­on which, he dispatched other Embassadours, to endeavour to reduce them gently, to their duty; but they retained them, and sent some from them­selves to Vienna, to demand free exercise of their Religion: dismission of the souldiers, and a generall pardon for what was past: All which they had ob­tained, had not their prosperity, by the defeat of some of the Duke of Ba­varia's Troops, made them undertake more. If any grow blind by happi­nesse, it is chiefly the abject sort of the vulgar, which waxes temerarily bold, when it thinks it self feared. But the Town of Lintz, which they besieged, cowed their courage, and speeded the punishment, which they had deserved, by their rash Rebellion. They assaulted it often, but were still repulsed, with huge losse: so that Papenheim, who was appointed to chastise them, effected it not with so great facility, as Trucses, and some other Generals had done, that of the like seditious Rabble, above a hundred years before. For he was fain to combat them at least seven times, before he could vanquish them; so chearfully and stoutly would they rally, and defy their victorious enemies, even in the fight. The Romans found themselves once in great trouble by [Page 106]the revolt of their slaves, and yet they more easily quenched that fire, though it were even within the Walls of Rome; then the Imperialists were able to do this, because here was more combustible matter. But under what Heads or Leaders,Their Generals, a Schollar, a Shoomaker, and a Smith. did this desperate Crew fight? A Schollar, a Shoomaker, and a Smith. With what weapons? Sticks, Stoones, Whips, Forks, and Muskets. And what more? Potion, and Enchantments. To what end? If we must judge Effects by their Causes, it was for the exercise of Religion, and to beat out their Soveraign Magistrate. Who were those Aeoluses, who letting loose the windes, disturbed the Calm, and raised their storms? It is more easie to conjecture, and believe, then to prove.

They are at last defeated in many Encoun­ters, by Papen­heim. After the last defeat, the most mutinous of them ran away; and the rest pent up at home, like slocks of sheep.

Thus ended this dangerous warre; which teaches us, how perilous a a thing it is, to endeavour to command mens consciences. We must con­tend with the word of God, and not with the sword; or, to say better, we must pray with charity for one another, and not persecute our selves with arms, unlesse we be commanded by Politick necessity. The holy Scripture sayes; Let the rares grow, fear lest you root out the good corne. Papenheim acqui­red no lesse glory, nor merited lesse to Triumph, then the two other Gene­rals. And thus was the Emperour delivered from a most apparent danger, by the remotenesse of his Armies. Let us now make a leap to the Low-Countries, and see what passed there, at the beginning of the year 1625.

CHAP. V

The death of Maurice 1625. PRince Maurice being returned to the Hague, expressed no more then a certain pensiveness, and melancholy, proceeding from age, and (as it was believed) from the errour committed, in that memorable Enterprise upon Antwerp; which grew to augment his feaver, and brought him at length to his grave. His reputation is too much known, to speak much of him; and the United Provinces would have had cause to be infinitely af­flicted at such a loss, had he not left them that worthy Brother, and that strong Atlas, who forthwith took the burthen of the Government upon his shoulders. This was he who firmly fixed this reeling Common-wealth, by his Arms; took many Townes in Freezland, Overysell, and Guelders, with small charge, few men, and little bloodshed: in such sort, as that he merited to be termed, as he was, the Father of the Souldiers.

And of King James, a peace­full Prince. In the same spring also, died King James; a Prince, who much loved Peace and learning. After he had the Crown of England upon his Head, all the disasters, and misfortunes of his House, begun upon his Praedecessours, were stopped by him, as water is by the opposition of a Dam, or Bank; so to gush out with the greater violence, upon his children, and succesours, as we shall hereafter shew. But, who can penetrate into the secrets of Gods Judgments? He governed his kingdom in peace, and maintained his Subjects in riches, and delights: but there grew up a little Venim, which wrought afterwards, in fit time. The [...]vills which we see often happen, draw their cause sometimes, from afarre off.

Prince Henry, having payed the last duties to his magnanimous Brother, departed from the Hague, to hinder the designe which the Spaniards had,The Spaniards will joyne the Rhein to the Mo [...], 1626. to joyn the Rhein to the Mose; and by the erection of many Forts, keep the Hol­landers from passing over; an Enterprise, which unprofitably exhausted their money and made them seem able, to make no more then meerly a Defen­sive warre. Jupiter laughed at the Gyants who would scale Heaven. Time hath declared the inutility of this work, and to what intention also that advice was given: For the Hollanders are Masters of that liquid Element, and passe it when they will. There chanced nothing worthy of note, in that toylsome March; save only that Count Henry of Bergues, beat up the Horse-Quarter, brought away the Count of Stirum his Cousin prisoner, with some Horse;Count Stirum prisoner. In revenge whereof, the Prince sent Count Ernest, to unnestle the Spaniards from Oldenzeel, and destroy the nest.

The Siege of Grol. In the year 1627. he laid siege to Grol, a small, but strong Town, upon the Confines of Westphalia, which he carried in lesse then a moneth, in the sight of a puissant Army. Spinola, in the mean time, was busie about the for­tifying of Sandflect, a Village between Antwerp, and Berghen op Zoom, which was a design of more advantage, and consideration, then that of uni­ting the two Rivers.

By this exploit of the Prince, it was judged, that his Government would prove happy; and the vessels loaden with mony, which were brought out of Holland by Peter Hein, moved him to undertake the siege of Boisleduc, which was begun the first of May, and ended the seventeenth of September; a fatal day to the House of Austria.

Lorraine was peacefully governed by the wise conduct of Duke Henry, son to Duke Charles; but his term was but of sixteen yeers.The death of the Duke of Lorraine. He departed to a better life, the twentieth of Iuly 1624. and shortly after him, the repose, and tranquility of all that Country, by the ambition of her Neighbours. He left but two Daughters; the elder whereof was married to the Count of Vandomonts sonne, her Cousin-German.

The Salick Law in Lor­raine. The year following, the Salick Law having regained vigour, and Francis of Vandomont being next heir by the said Law, which excludes Females; sur­rendred his right in that Dutchy to his sonne Charles; which was approved by the States of the Country; and so Charles Duke of Lorraine, made his en­try into the good City of Nancy, and took full possession of the whole Dukedome.

Now, some have written against this said Law, as if it were to be obser­ved no where but in France, as coming thither with them, out of Franconie. But most Writers affirm, that the ancient Franks established their habitation from the bank of the Rhein, to the River of Loire; in such sort, as that Lor­raine being comprised therein, and having been also a parcell divided from that kingdom, it followes, that the Predecessors had the same intention, to establish it as well in the kingdom of Austrasia, as in that of France, and that it hath been tacitly, and quietly observed, without any dispute. Besides, that it is proved by the Testament of Renè of Ierusalem Duke of Lorraine, and Bar, made in the year 1406. by which the Male are called to Succession, and the Female excluded, as it further appears also by experience it self.

A Jubily ar Rome. This year of 1625. Pope Ʋrban celebrated an universall Jubily, at which the Prince of Poland, coming from the Low-Countries, was present; and the same year, the Emperour Ferdinand Crowned his Son King of Hungary; in­vited thereto, by the States of that kingdom, to be defended by so great and powerfull a Prince, against the perpetual ambushes, and snares, of the incon­stant Gabor. Nor was it enough, that he had one Crown;The Crowning of the King of Hungary. for that of Bohemia was also resigned him by his Father, with the accustomed Ceremonies.

Let us not leave the Danub, which was yet all red with the blood of the [Page 108]Peasants, till we shall first have seen that of the Transylvanians, and Turks, stream also there, together with the motives of that Warre.

Gabor breakes the peace. This Gabor, being swolne with pride, by the Allyance of one of the most illustrious Houses of Germany; honoured at his wedding, by the presence of the two Emperours, besides those of Kings, and other Princes; found him­self tickled, by a new desire to Reign: and the occasions were so fair, that they stifled the Peace so often sworne, and so often broaken. For the Ar­mies were drawne towards the Baltick Sea; and the Bavarians, and Pahou­heim, had work enough, with the revolted Peasants. Whereupon he passed out of Hungary into Moravia, and took many Townes; the fear of so unfore­seen an evill, making the people have recourse rather to God, then Armes. But Mansfeldt having redressed his Army, after being cudgelled in Saxony, marched out of Silesia, into Hungary; and Wallenstein traced him: affronted them all together, and defeated them. Upon this he called the Tartars, who passed through Poland to his assistance; but they being loaden with pil­lage, were so hotly charged by the Poles, The Tartars beaten. that they were fain to lay down both their packs, and their lives; in such sort, as that there remained not so so much as one alive, to carry the newes: so that there were only the Turks, upon whom to look now; and them he invited: but it was only to augment the Triumph of Wallenstein, And the Turks by Wallenstein., who beat them, took their Canon, and pillaged their Camp, which was full of riches.

The Grand-Signor, desirous to keep the Peace, called back his Troops, and their departure gave Gabor, Gabor repents, and obtaines peace. both disgust, and repentance, for having so often offended the Emperour, who was loaden with victorious lawrel: and therefore he sent his Embassadours, who found Ferdinand as ready to par­don, as their Master had been light to offend; and so he was content to ac­cept all the conditions proposed to him by the Conquerors, signe the Peace, and be quiet. The Hungarians rejoyced hereat, because those disturbances held them in continual Alarmes. And this was the end of the warres of Hungary, and Austria, besprinkled with the blood of the Peasants, and Bar­barians. Let us now suffer them to repose some years, and return again to­wards the Septemptrion.

CHAP. VI. Gustave King of Sweden, attacks Borussia, or Prussia. The Imperialists succour the Polanders. A Truce is made for six years

PEace being made being made, between the Emperour, and the King of Denmark, the Imperialists departed out of Holstein, and all the other oc­cupated places,The Stralsun­dians under the protection of King Gustave, who enters into Prussia. and dispersed themselves throughout all Meckelenburgh, and Pomerania, The Citizens of Stralsund, grown sturdy, and proud by ha­ving eluded the Attacks of Wallenstein, put themselves by content of the King of Denmark, under the King of Swedens protection. This action much dis­pleased Ferdinand; begat the most dreadfull warre of this Age, and opened the passage to the Swedes, to come and usurp a good part of the Empyre, after having troubled it all.

Gustavus Adolphus, having made himself Master of Livonia, endeavoured to do as much with Prussia, where he had powerful Correspondents. When there there is not strength enough, recourse must be had to shifts. He entred unresisted, with a puissant Navy, took, and fortified the Pilaw; passed to Elbing, which [Page 109]yeelded out of affection, as also many other Places. Onely Brunsbergh, a Ca­tholick Town, durst make defence, and was taken by constraint.Takes many Towns. All trem­bled, between hope and fear, love and hate, and the desire of novelty seem­ed to prevail over ancient duty.

We desire (saith the Poet) alwayes that, which is denyed us, and labour to ob­tain that which is forbidden us.

I have heard some men of that Country, worthy of credit, affirme, that if the King had drawn neer Dansick, with the same bosdnesse, and resolution that he did before Elbing, it is very probable, that the Citizens would have made their accommodation with him. But opinion, is as much subject to falshood, as truth.

The River Wistule, parts it self into branches, the one whereof bathes Elbing, and the other passes through Dansick, and a little below it, shoots it self into the sea.

Makes a Fort at the separa­tion of the River. The King lost no time, but gained the Point, and built a Fort there, like that of Schenck, at the separation of the Rheyn.

The River being thus bridled, the Polanders who were wont to bring their corn to Dansick, in certaine long Boats, which they call Canes, chose rather now, to let it moulder, and perish at home, then carry it, at a most vaste charge, through their Enemies Quarters: which caused a dearth in Holland, and incommodated the Traffick so much, that had this Warre lasted any long time, it would have done the Spaniards businesse there.

The Polanders, who boasted, that they could easily drive out the Swedes, made no great haste to put their Army into the Field:The Polanders slight their enemies. but were much ama­zed, to see so many Trenches, and the Townes which were lost, half forti­fied in a trice.

There occurred many ambiguous Fights; but the matter was never brought to a generall decision.

The Swedes made Warre, after the Holland fashion, and the Poles, after the French; and these, were beaten before Strasburgh, and those, be­fore Torn.

Generall Arnhem came to succour the Polanders; but he brought them more hurt, then good.

A truce made for six moneths In sine, by the intervention of the Count d' Auanx, Embassadour of France, and those of the States Generall, a Truce was made for six years, to the great contentment of the Hollanders, who were full of joy before, by the gaining of Boisleduc; which, how it came to be taken, the strength thereof making it held impregnable, I will forthwith declare.

King Gustane, being fortified by the relicks of the Polish Army, marched back into Sweden, to deliberate of the Germane Warre; which was underta­ken not by any Right, but Usurpation: and more for conveniency and jea­lousie, then any justice at all.

Whatsoever other Princes do, is lawfull, merits praise, and is put into the necessity of their affaires: onely the House of Austria is guilty, and culp­able: She must endure all, and if the Lot of Warre favour her, against such as presume to shook her, she must not resent it, but make a stop to her Victo­rie, to avoyd the being accused of Usurpation. The Empyre hath been too long in her possession, it must be torn out of her hands, though it were to be done, by the destruction of the Catholick Religion, and the fundamentall Lawes.

But great Preparatives call us back into Holland: there is some huge De­signe, to which they are invited, by the disorder of the Spaniards.

CHAP. VII. The Siege of Boisleduc. The Imperialists under Mon­tecuculi, joyne with the Count of Bergh, who enters in Velaw. The taking of Wesel.

THe Hollanders, well knowing the Situation, Fortification and Impor­tance of Boisleduc, were wont to say, as by a common Proverb, to de­monstrate the small apparance there was of taking it, I will pay you, when Boisleduc is Ours, or of our Part [...], all which were called Gueuse; Gueuse; that is to say, I will never pay you. But the event hath ma­nifested the contrary; this Town having closely followed Rochell, which was conceived to be unbesiegable, in regard of the Haven. But in this de­testable Age, there hath been nothing found impregnable, for wickednesse being every where, the Sword enters every where, all gives way to Injustice, and Impiety. Nothing is able to resist insolence, nothing so sacred, but it is prophaned, nothing so solid, but it is moved, and nothing so firme, but it is broken.

The Prince of Orange, seeing the Emperours forces employed in Den­mark, and Austria, and those of Spaine a ground, by the taking of the Indian Silver Fleet, and carrying it to Amsterdam, egged on from abroad, and inflamed also, with desire of taking this place, by the very difficulties there were in it, resolved, after having maturely picked out all the circum­stances, to go a Maying there, the last of April 1629. His Intelligences, both within, and without the Town, were not small, and the obstacles, which offered themselves in bulke, very great. But considering, that the greater the difficulties be, the more luster they give to Vertue, he slighted all. For­tune forwards the stout, The Siege of Boisleduc. and hinders the timid. He invested it with an Army of thirty thousand men, and speedily finished his Trenches, and Lines of Communication, whilest they were disputing at Brussels, who should com­mand their Army.Henry of Bergh General of the Army. Count Henry was chosen, but he marched so slowly, that he found the Prince too strongly intrenched for his defence, to be pos­sibly forced out.

For, he had dammed up the Rivers, and brought them round about his Fortifications, in such sort, as it was like a broad Sea. And on the other side, the Summer was so faire,A dry Summer. and so dry, that it looked, as if heaven had enter­ed into contract with the Prince, to give him the fruition of the Victory. For had it chanced to be moist, and rainy (as it is ordinary in that climate) their mills of so rare workmanship, would have proved uselesse, and Nature would have jecred Art out of countenance.

The Spaniards in the Velaw. The Spaniards indeavoured to succour it in vaine: which made them passe the Rheyn, at Wesel, to joyne with the Imperialists; and the passage of the Isell being open, and maintained with the sword, gave them a fair prize, together with the defence of some Companies which followed. But, the Prince drew out part of his Army, which so well coasted the Spaniards, that they made no remarkable progresse at all.

Never had they Fortune so favourable, and never did they loose so many men, as in that field, not by the sword, but by other inconveniencies: Where­as had they gon forward at first, they had found no kinde of resistance, all the Country being full of fear, and consternation.

The Prince stood so fast before Boisleduc, that he could not be parswaded by the States of Guelders, Overysel, and Ʋtrick, to quit the siege, though it [Page 111]were to save the Country; bidding them, by way of answer, to have pati­ence, and put all in good order, &c. that the enemy would give them more fear, then hurt. All which proved true: for, the Hollanders, having ta­ken breath, and done all which was necessary for the defence of their Country, with some of the licensiated Troops of the King of Denmark, put the Armies to a sudden stand, without either Counsell or courage, upon the dry sands of the Velaw. Yet howsoever,Take Amers­fort. they were bold enough to attack Amersfort, which not being tenible, was forthwith yeelded, and some other small paltry places near the South-Sea, were attempted, and not ta­ken, in regard their design was discovered, before it was fit to be executed. Besides, to encrease the misfortune of the Enemies, upon the nineteenth of August, being a very fair morning, Wesel was taken,Wesel being surprised, makes the Spa­niards draw out. and the booty of the Im­perialists snapt: which forced them to draw out of the Velaw faster, then they went in, without having so much as seen Amsterdam, which was alwayes in their mouthes. But the grapes were sower, because the Fox could not reach them.

Count Henry retyred not to Brussells, but to his Government; and could not so well clear himself, but that there remained some suspicions greatly disadvantageous to his reputation, in the soules of the more clear-sighted men; which were verified, by the open retreat he made, grounded upon slight and frivolous excuses only, concerning the Kings service.

Boisleduc yeelds for want of powder, In fine, Boisloduc was rendered; the Imperialists returned into Germany, much lighter then they came; and the Spaniards into Brabant, almost half of them wasted, by hunger, sicknesse, and disbanding, not without loud mur­muring, and plainly cursing their General. Count Iohn of Nasseaw left the passage of the Isel, and the Prince went into Holland, where he was re­ceived by all, with marvellous acclamations of joy, and unparallelled applause.

This Place, being one of the most important the King had, was taken for want of powder, and a sufficient Garrison; and the Prince, on the other side, having no want of mony, commanded a Bank to be raised from Holland, overthwart the Fennes, or Marishes, which cost the United Provinces much treasure, and much hastened the taking of the Town: besides, that to say truth, the Magistrates of Amsterdam, were not backward to advance money, to de­clare the zeal they had, to the preservation of the Common-wealth. Never did Fortune smile more upon the Spaniards, with a more unhappy issue; and never frowned more upon the Confoederates, to give them a more glorious victory. The losse of this most important place, frustrated the Spaniards the hope of regaining Holland, and served for an invincible Clausure to the Com­mon-wealth for the future, if we look upon the outside of it; but it is subject to corruption, in regard of the abundance of ill humours, wherewith it is stuffed within, as rising from the fenny grounds about it, which yet easily are voyded by weak and slight physick, as will shortly appear. But let us now go see the conclusion of the Warre in France, against the Hugenots, and the ruine of that Party, which gave the King means afterwards to shock the House of Austria, and afflict his Neighbours.

CHAP. VIII

DUring the siege of Rochell, that two Brothers (namely, the Dukes of Rohan, and Soublse) did all they could to succour the Center of their State; moving even Heaven and Earth, with the most zealous of the Party, to save the Place from the shipwrack whereof it was in danger. The one made insurrections every where, saying, that if the Town were taken, all they of the Party would be massacred: but the Prince of Conde, and the Duke of Montmorancy charged him so often, and so closely, that he had almost ever the worst.

The other encouraged the English, and urged them to make haste, before the Damme were finished, about which the French wrought with great ar­dour, [...]o re [...]sons retard the suc­cour. and good successe. Two reasons in my opinion, retarded the succour so long: the one, that they could not imagine, that the said Damme (at which they laughed) would be able to hinder their passage; and that being stronger by Sea then the French, they should easily break all obstacles. The other is, that they would not relieve the Town till it were in extremity; to the end that (the Townesmen being for the most part starved, or debilitated with hunger) they might make themselves masters thereof, and place a Colony of their own nation there; to be ready at all times, to incommodate France, and awaken their old pretensions. They who ask relicfe, have one de­signe; and he who gives it, another. Besides, that it is also very credible, that the Cardinal (who was not ignorant, of how great his credit would be, after the reduction of this Place, (which was judged impregnable) had corrupted the chief of the Counsell of England, with mony, that so the succour, which was hastened by zeal, might be delayed. Whatever it were, neither the great Arsenal, nor the strength of the Bastions, nor the Purse at Porrette, nor the desperate resolution to die, and to hang him who should first speak of yeelding; served to any other purpose, then to make the constance of the Townsmen admired, augment the story of King Lewis the Inst, and elevate that of the Cardinal, above the Stars. A very great, and most acceptable Vi­ctory to France, had she remained in the same liberty which she enjoyed, during the potency of this Town. A most damnable victory to the House of Austria, which the French themselves accuse of having then forgotten her interest. A victory, which ruined, and brought to a full stand, or Non-plus, all that Party, which divided the Kings Authority. A Victory, which gave that great Cardinal one half of his honour; and upon which he founded the high­est, and most constant power, that ever any Minister had; to the ruine of many most illustrious Families, and old Priviledges, the confusion of all Christendom, and even of his own great Benefactresse her self.

Now since the English had rather hindred, then furthered the Party, and were accused of being the cause of this irreparable losse; a resolution was ta­ken to seek to some other support elsewhere: and so an Embassadour was dispatched into Spain, to represent to that King, that interest he had to keep this Party;The Duke of Rohan de­ [...]ands si [...]cour in Spain. and to beseech him to send mony only, and to remember the King of France's Allyance with the Hollander, whom he maintained with as much heat and zeal, as if they were his own subjects, and of his own Reli­gion, [Page 113]Whereupon the Spaniards, by the permission of the Counsell Con­science, resolved upon it; thereby to give as many vexations to the King of France, within his kingdom; as they received from him in the Low-coun­tries. But the said Embassadour,The death of the Negotiatour. or Necessitator, though a subject of the King of Spaines, was taken and condemned to death, by order of the Parlia­ment of Tholosa; his innocence, founded upon the action of a publick Minister, serving him for nothing; however this Decree were censured by such as had not their eyes vailed by passion, and who could speak freely of it with­out danger.

Makes his peace with the King, and all obey. King Lewis discovered all their plots, and prevented them, by the pru­dence of the Cardinal; and having made but a slight peace with the said Duke, he fell with his Army upon the Vivaret, surprised Privas, and took it by open force; chastised insolence, by putting all to sword: treated well the Townes which submitted, and assured them of the free exercise of their Re­ligion. Upon this, the Duke had recourse to his clemency, and he graciously embraced him, and augmented his Pension. Castras, Niemes, and some other places, which might have given a long trouble, also submitted, with­out any other punishment inflicted upon, then the demolishment of their new Fortisications: which Commandment was of hard digestion to them of Montauban, who were nevertheless disposed to obedience by the Cardinals presence, and the force of his eloquence, who alledged that the King could not endure any fortified place in his kingdom, And so in fine, they stooped, and with regret enough brake down that, which gave the jealousie; which could not be obtained from them, by violence, and the noise of the Canon. Time ripens all things; and that, which in the precedent Age was judged impossible, hath been found feasible, in this.

The end of the Hughenot Party. This was the end of the Hughenot Party in France, which had given so much labour and toyle, to the Kings, and so divided their jurisdiction. It took birth, from the doctrine of Luther, and Calvin; passed infancie, under Henry the second: got vigour, and strength, under Francis the second; grew to strong youth, under Charles the ninth, and Henry the third, through the favour of the Princes of the Blood, enemies to the power, and authority of the Dukes of Guise; and by the valour of the King of Navarre. It obtained free Exercife, and some Townes of safety, under Henry the fourth; and re­mained quiet, and without commotion, out of respect and reverence, to so great a Prince. But, under Lewis the thirteenth, finding it self abandoned by some of the principall Heads, it began to stagger; and at last vanished quite away; in such sort, as that though the Religion be still there, there is yet no formed party, and the root of the ambition of the Grandies, who under the shadow of Religion, did very often disturb honest people on both sides; is quite cut off. Their distrust (which is called, the companion of safety, which they conceived, they should not be able to find in the Kings word) made them often importune the Queen-Regent, and the marriage with the Infanta of Spain (a Nation which they abhorre above all other) made them joyn to the Prince of Conde, to hinder it; which much hastened their disgrace.

The King, being declared Ma [...]or, recovered Bearn, more by veneration, then by force; and more by the brightnesse of his Majesty, then by that of his sword. He was the pralude of the first warre, speeded by their As­sembly at Rechel, Father Arnour. and counselled by Father Arnour, who was preferred by the Duke of Luynes, to the direction of the Conscience, and partly also, of the favour of his Majesty. But as the said Luynes made the Fortune of this able [...]esuit; so did he also soon unmake it, thereby to free himself from the jealousie it gave him Saumur, The taking of Townes. Saint Ieand' Angeli, and a great number of other Towns, Burghs, and Villages fortified, were taken, with incredible successe. There [Page 114]was no more left then Montauban, which forced the Conquerours to retreat, and in some sort, dimmed their Triumph. The year following produced the Kings constant resolution to be obeyed, and to punish the revolted Towns; the reduction of Moutpeill [...]er, and the Peace which followed, by the counsell of the Constable d' Edignieres. Edigniere [...]. This Lord being of a mean extraction, grew to be elevated to the highest Charge of France, through all the degrees of a souldier,His life. and had heaped up a huge deale of treasure. Not with standing his Belief, which was the same of the Reformates, he alwayes kept his faith invi­olable with the King, and was by consequence, but little loved by the most zealous of the Party.Makes himself a Catholi [...]. A little before his death, he embraced the Roman Catholick Religion; as having promised it in a frollick to Urban, as soon as he should come to the Pontificat.

The second warre made the Hugenots loose the Lordship of the Sea. The third, being begun with the assistance of a stranger, was consummated by the direction of that potent Cardinal, and so the whole conduct of that great Vessel, was restored into the hands of the just, and milde King Lewis. Let us go into Hungary, to see the end of the fickle, and busy Gabor.

CHAP. IX

The death of Gabor. BEthleem Gabor, growne wise by so many losses, inviolably kept the Peace, and maintained himself in amity with the Emperour, till the coming in of the King of Sweden; who being his Brother-in Law, would easily, with his arguments, have perswaded him to take up Arms again, had he not been prevented by a dropsie, which drowned all his smoakie ambitions, to­gether with his life, and deprived the aforesaid King, of a man, who would yet according to occasions have much tormented the Empyre; and whose life deserved no more admiration, then his last Will and Testament did. For he bequeathed the Emperour forty thousand Ducats,His Testardent. and a brave horse, with a saddle embrodered full of Pearles, and precious stones: to his sonne Ferdinand the third, as much; to the Emperour of Turkie, as much; to his wife, Katherine of Brandenburgh, a hundred thousand Rix-Dollars, and a hundred thousand Florins, besides three Provinces. The Execution of the said Testa­ment, was recommended by him to the Grand Signor; the widow, and Transylania, to the Emperour. And this was the end of that Gabor, who was so much renowned; who so often re-incouraged them of the Party, when they groaned under the Emperours forces; and who was so soon bea­ten down by his own inconstance, or rather, by the unhappinesse of the said Party,

Ragoskie, having bribed the Embassadour whom the widow sent to Con­stam inople, was created Duke of Transylvania. She opposed him, and called her Tutour, the Emperour, to her assistance, who sent her the Palatin of Costo­nia, Ragoskie brough an Army into the Field,His Successour by deceit is of­ten beaten. which was defeated, and he in great trouble to raise another, which had the same successe of the former, as wel as which followed. Thus finding the Cross too strong for him, he looked to­wards the M [...]on. Three Bashaws came to succour him, who were all beaten, one [Page 115]after another, by the aforesaid Palatine. In fine, since he had no better issue by Arms, then his Predecessour, he was fain to have recourse to the same practises, and follow the same steps. Wherefore, he desired peace with Stephen Gabor, brother to the aforesaid Bethleem, and made him Governour of the Province, restored the widow her Treasures, and served himself of their me­diation,Make peace. which was not infructuous to him; for he obtained peace, and Tran­syl [...]ania remained under the Emperours protection. Let us now go to the wedding of Ferdinand the third.

This Prince being destinated to wear the Crown of the Empyre, as well as that, of the Kingdomes of Bohemia, and Hungary, sent to demand the In­fanta Mary, Sister to the King of Spain, who was granted him. The King her Brother, accompanied her to Barcelona, where she embaiked for Italy, The marriage of Fordinand the third. passed by Naples, and made her entry at Vienna, with so great pomp, and gallantry, that there could nothing more be added, to augment the splendour thereof. Before her arrivall, her husband was Crowned Empe­rout at Ratisbone; shortly after, at Posen. Let us leave them with all the joyes of the Court at Vienna, and return into Italy, to see a warre of Catholick against Catholick.

CHAP. X

THe difference,The warre of Italy, for the Dutchy of Mantua. which chanced about the succession of the Dutchies of Maentua, and Monferrat, embarassed all Italy; awakened the ambitious jealousies of those two potent nations, and so much exercised them in warre, that it proved partly the cause of the entyre breach, and desolations which followed.

In the year 1627, the twenty sixth of December, Duke Vincent deceasing without Children, the succession fell to the Duke of Nevers, who received it, and praecipitated his inauguration or investure, without the knowledge of the limporour, who is the Lord of Fief, or Supreme-Heredirary thereof. The Spaniards, more through jealousie, then by right, or title, took Arms; as the Duke of Savoy also did, for an old pretension; he seazed upon many places in Mon [...]ferrat, and they besieged Casal. O interest of State, thou Idol? how powerful art thou, and how many mischiefs dost thou cause? The apprehen­sion, which the Spaniards had of the Dutchy of Milan, made them undertake this warre, and hasten the Peace in the North.

The Duke of Nevers, put good Garrisons into the most tenible places, and joyned with the Venetians, who could not endure, that the House of Austria should make any further progresse in Italy, and shut up the gate to the French.

Ferdinand commands them to lay down Arms, but is not obeyed. The Emperour, desiring to extinguish this sire, by a remedy just enough, though a little too suspect; sent his Embassadours, to injoyn both Parties to lay down Arms; and in regard that the Duke of Nevers had not first de­manded his investure, in due form; to remit the said Dutchies, by way of sequestration, into his hands, that so he might proceed therein, according to Right: But he was obeyed here, just as his Predecessour was, at Gulick. For, the Duke rejected the conditions; endeavoured to succour Casal, and cut in pieces the forces, which opposed his generous designe.

The King of France, in the mean while, was busie at the siege of Rochell, [Page 116]which seemed long to the poor Duke, who found himself oppugned in his lawfull succession by the Spaniards, Succour from France. the Savoyers, and the Imperialists, and that, without hope of any strong relief from France. The King dispatched away Marshall of Crecquy in Autumne, and he went into the Field two moneths after the reduction of the Town, which was in the heart of Winter.

The Duke agrees. The Duke, who conceived that the said Marshall marched too slow­ly and that he would busie himself about the taking of the Marquisat of Salu­ces, and make a warre in Savoy; changed his maxime, promised the Empe­rour to obey him, and to receive his Garrisons, into the Townes; and con­sequently, sent his son, the Duke of Duke of Rhetell to Vienna, to make pro­testation of his obedience, and innocence. The Spaniards, however much harassed, and tyred, by the frequent sallies of the besieged, the length of the Siege, and inundations of the Po; disapproved this Treaty, and (to their own dammage) continued the said Siege. The Emperour sent other Em­bassadours, to command observance:The Spaniards continue the siege at Casal. But Dou Card [...]a, who during these intrigues, hoped to carry the place, pressed it hard, lent a deaf ear to the Emperours ouder, and dispatched a Envoy, or Messenger-Express, to Madrid. Nevers, being irritated beyond measure to sind himself thus treated, and that that the equity of his Cause was combatted with so much inju­stice, and animated, on the other side, by seeing his King slight the rigour of the season, to come and ayd him, turned all his thoughts to warre.

The King of France passes by force through Savoy, and makes them rise. The Duke of Savoy refused the King passage, but he got it by force, de­feated his Troops, assured himself of the Passe, or Streight of the Suze; and compelled the Spaniards to raise the Siege: wherein he was better obey­ed, then the Emperour himself. But the short durance of the Peace with the Hughenots in France, obliged him to returne, and humiliate the [...]o.

It is now time to send part of our forces from the Baltick Sea, to carry the Eagles thither, where they first commanded.

Fordinand, to uphold his Authority, dispatched thither an Army of twen­ty thousand men, under the conduct of the Generals Al [...]ring, and Galasso; who, having seazed upon the Passage of the Grisons, effused themselves into Italy, and got into their clutches the whole Dutchy of Mantua, with as much good luck,The Imperialists in Italy lesiege Mantua in with. as the French did that of Savoy, except only the Head City, which they also besieged: but the jealous Venatians, endeavouring to remove all such, as might be able to give their State any cause of apprehension, were not slack in setting their hands stoutly to work, for the Duke: though yet the Imperialists took Goite from them, and carried away all the booty, or pillage thereof to their Camp. But the French coming in the nick, craftily snapt two Sentinels; entred into a Quarter, and put a huge number of them to the Sword. So that the other finding the season improper, and the small apparence there was of carrying the place, retyred themselves much diminished into Garrison.

CHAP. XI

The Venetians beaten by Ga­lasso. THis retreat gave the Venetians a desire to retake Goite, but they were bro­ken by Galasso. Whereupon, they re-assembled their forces, and ha­ving recruited and ingrossed them, put them selves again in a posture of fighting, wherein they were the second time put to flight, and above six thousand killed and taken, together with all their Artillery. This losse much amazed the Republick: But Fortune was more favourable to the French; who (as we have already said) after the taking of Rochel, shewed them­selves very hot, for the defence of the Duke of Nevers. True it is, that the Kings dangerous sickness at Lyons, had almost been the cause of slackening this generous ardour; and they, who looked asquint upon the Cardinals po­tencye, seemed to prognosticate, that his ruine was at hand, Envy still fol­lowes the Charrior of a growing Power.

And the Sa­voyers by the French. The French took Pignarola, and were re-inforced by the Swissers: and this loss, which was most sensible to the Duke, was followed by many other. The Spaniards were beaten by Monsieur de Bassompiere; Cambery taken, and Montmclian besieged. The Duke of Guise landed near Nice, to go joyne with the Army. The King sent the Duke of Montmorancy towards Pied­mont, and followed himself afterwards. Prince Thomas presuming to dis­pure his entrance with twelve thousand men, was beaten; the Colours presented to the King, being the honour; and all Piedmont, the re­ward of the victory. In such sort, as that the poor Duke of Savoy, who had so often ventured to contest, sometimes with one of the Crowns, and sometimes with the other; found himself quite spoyled of his States, For ha­ving nothing lest but Turin, and not daring to shut himself up there, he resolved to keep the key of the Fields, and let the Mountains oppose the vi­ctorious Party, by seeking to preserve his liberty in desert, and inaccessi­ble places.

We must, here take notice of the Martial generosity of the French, who, in the beginning of warre are invincible, make all bow to their Armes, break through all oppositions, and as soon take whole Provinces, as other Nati­ons do Towns: but by the too sudden loss of patience, on the other side,Their impati­ence. they grew also to loose whole Provinces, almost as soon, as other Nations do Townes.

Now Fortune favoured the Imperialists every where, which they made both the Venetians, and the Duke of Nevers feel. For they returned the Siege upon Mantua, and took it at length, by a fine Stratagem. Mantua taken by atrick of warre. For the be­sieged, by their frequent Sallies, being reduced to a very small number, demanded the succour of five thousand men, from the Venetians, and Letters being intercepted, gave the Besiegers occasion to serve themselves of this trick, to catch besieged. They secretly drew into the field the number of men demanded, who by a fight with powder without shot, got near to one of the Gates, which being forthwith opened by some, who thought them to be Venetians, they made themselves Masters of the Town, to the great asto­nishment of the Inhabitants, who were sacked by their imaginary Auxilia­ries; and the Duke yeelding up the Castle by Composition, was conducted, together with his wife and children, to Ferrara.

Spinola before Casal. This victory swelled up the spirits of the Imperialists, and made the Spaniards continue the Siege of Casal, under the command of Marquis Spi­nola, who had acquired so much glory in the Low-countries: and Toiras, who was all crowned with lawrell, for the honour he atchieved, by the defence of the Fort of Saint Martin against the English, defended the Cittadel. The French, making a shew to go and attack the Dutchy of Mi­lan, wheeled suddenly about upon the Besiegers, the state whereof was this. The Town and Castle were already yeelded to the Marquis, and the Citta­del had capitulated, that in case there came not sufficient succour to beat them from thence, within a certain term, which was the fifteenth of Octo­ber, Monsieur de Toiras was to march out.

The French Army appeared in Battaile array neare the Trenches, and the Spaniards put themselves in posture to receive it.The death of Spinola, and of the Duke of Savoy. All seemed to laugh upon the French, by the death of the Marquis, who was taken out of this world by the Plague: and Charles Emanuel Duke of Savoy, being being stripped of his States, and overwhelmed with grief and warre, payed also his tribute to Nature.

When two great Bulls are ready to rush together, and shock one ano­ther, the whole Heard stand still, and attend with trembling, the issue of the Combat. In the same manner, was Italy the spectatresse of this furious shock, and had no cause at all to rejoyce. But it pleased God, that by the Popes intercession,The peace was made by the addresse of Cardinal Ma­zarin. and Cardinall Mazarin's dexterity (who made himself known by this first negotiation) the Peace being concluded at Vienna, was brought to the Armies, just when the Trumpets were going to sound, to draw the sword. A fair escape: happy newes!

By vertue of this Peace, the French returned into France, and restored all to the Duke of Savoy, except on [...]ly Piguarola, which had been privately bought by the said Cardinal. A politick subtilty, to have the Gate into Italy, alwayes open; mixt with Cousenage, as the Spaniards say; who rendred Montferrat, as the Germans likewise did Italy, to go against the King of Sweden. The Duke of Nevers was fain to ask pardon, and Investure; which accordingly was performed, and peace and rest restored to Italy. How many combats, how much blood-shed was here, for a sume of ambition? For Religion had nothing to do in the matter. But it is credible, that the Spaniards would not suffer so potent a French Prince at the entry into Italy, and so near the Dutchy of Milan, which they keep as tenderly, as the ample of their eyes: and that the French, on the other side, would establish him, and uphold him, without acknowledging the Emperour. God makes ju­stice appear, when men will throw it under foot with Arms.

Prodigies in Italy. This warre had been praemonstrated by many Prodigies, and Portents, which praeceded it; as namely, by Earthquakes in Apalia, whereby more then sixteen thousand persons were overwhelmed; by dreadfull floods, streams of blood, and the like. And really, these two Nations, after ha­ving stoutly wrangled, and by sword, famin, and contagious sicknesses, lost above a million of mortals; came neither of them to the principal, but se­cret end, which they had proposed to themselves, and reaped no other sala­rie, then that of vain-glory, drawn out of jealousie of State. The Coun­tries were destroyed, the Neighbours oppressed, Christian Religion con­temned, and altered; and in the one of the aforesaid nations, by many per­sons quite annihilated. The Ministers, who love to fish in troubled waters, and blow the bellowes of their Masters ambition, so to carry them rashly on to warres, which might be diverted by one single conference; will one day have much to answer, before the fountain of all Equity and Justice.

The enemies of Cardinal Ri­chelieu. But let us leave this point to be picked out by the Casuists, and return to France where we shall discover, how the Cardinal falls as deep, into the ha­tred [Page 119]of the Grandies, as he is strong in the possession of the Kings favour. The Queen-Mother repented her self of having promoted a Minister, who was to destroy her. Gastion was vexed to see the management of all the af­faires of France in his hands, without participating therein. That devout Prelate the Chardinall of Berulles, laboured to stop him from forging some designes, as pernicious to the Catholicks abroad, as they had been to the Hughenots in France. But Parca cut off the thred of his life, and deprived Richelieu of a most Religious Enemy, who survived him, to accomplish his end in other; yea, in all such, as gave any jealousie: and the Hughenots themselves were grown to sing his prayses, when many Catholicks had him in horrour and execration.

CHAP. XII

WHEN the Cardinal, by his great prudence, had broaken that puis­sant Party, which in some measure, both divided and shocked the Soveraign Power; re-established every where the Catholick Religion, and a fresh springing Amity amongst the people; he perceived himself in danger to be cast out of the Saddle. But, he had acquired so great an influence upon the mind, both of King and People, by the good successe of his Counsels, that he was not a jot moved at the puissant factions, which he saw growing against himself, at the Court; all which he surmoun­ted afterwards, by a certain felicity, which alwayes accompanied him, and which after the Peace of Italy, shined with more force, and luster. His de­signes seemed to be carried to a breach, between the two Crownes:The King makes peace with the English. for the more eafie atchievement whereof, and to involve the Church in this perni­cious warre, from which some Grandies were averse, by the intermission, or mediation of the Venetians, he made peace with the English, whom he could not attack by land; and thought of finding another enemy, whom he might lay aboard, when he would. His Master had deserved, and posses­sed the name of Just, by humbling with great moderation, the Hughenot Party, and there was no better meanes left to obtain it also amongst the Re­formates, who were yet very hot, then by poasting to the succour of the Pro­testant, against the Emperour.

The King of England, after the fall of the Hughenots, in whose defence he had lost both many men, and much money, finding the lot of arms unfa­vourable (which was to be also fatall to him afterwards) chose to sit still in Royall vacancie and repose:The first war of the King against the Spiniards, the second against the French, and the third against his Subjects. He was unfortunate in the first Expedition he made, when he sent that Fleer, with the Admirall of Holland, who joyned with a great number of ships, to surprise Cales. For after having suffered ma­ny inconveniences, and losses, it was fain at length to return; and the King of Spain remitted many prisoners into England, to be punished like Pyrats, be­cause their King had not denounced the War. One affront was paid by another. In his second undertaking against France, Fortune favoured him yet lesse; and his third and lasi, was the ruine of his Family, as we will shew, towards the end of this Epitome. Suddenly after the reduction of Rochel, the Cardinal pressed hard for the succour of the Duke of Nevers, against the opinion of such, as could not endure so glittering a Purple, and who apprehended a breach. But he began it, and ended it (as we even now said) in the yeare 1633. The said Duke sold his homage, and duty to the Emperour: which gave contentment to the Duke of Savoy, and the Marquis de Guastala, in re­gard of their pretensions to the aforementioned Dutchies.

Now, having already dissipated the smallest and weakest enemies of his Greatnesse, he crushed that Party, which had been so formidable to the precedent Kings: and being confirmed by the assurances, which his Master had given him, of covering him with his Crown, against all such as endea­voured his mine; he resolved upon this great designe, against the house of Austria. A designe I say of huge danger; and which could not be un­dertaken, and set on worke,The Cardinal disposes the Pro­testants to War against the Em­perour. but by means of potent Allyes, for fear of incur­ring the hazard of destroying the State. Therefore he thought it fir, to a­waken the Protestants, all the North, and all such as hated the Roman Catholick Religion: nor were the Hollanders the last, though the Spaniards courted them (in vaine) to a Truce.

The King of England was easily disposed to it, in regard of his Son in Law, and so great a Family, as wherewith both himself, and the Hollanders were burthened in a strange Country: however the Communion of Reli­gion, and compassion made this charge seem supportable, and gentle. In briefe, for the common interest of upholding themselves, and for the appre­hension which every one in particular had of this puissant House; they were all resolved. A powerful Oratour cannot faile to perswade; when he pleads the Common cause.

But now, there wanted both a Captain, and Cause sufficient, to cover both this apprehension, and the ambition also of some certaine people; the former whereof they were resolved to finde quickly out, though they were for­ced to goe seek him in the Ice, and amongst the Deserts of the North; and as for pretexts, as well false as true, they could not be wanting; for since they were about to play their last Game, they would hazard all; and if they lost, the consequence would be an universal Monarchie.

In the Treaty of Peace at Vienna, the Embassadours of France promised, that the French should not meddle with the affairs of Germany; and yet there was another Treaty at Stockholne at the same time, about an Allyance, for the quiet of the Empire, and a War against the Emperour.

But for the better understanding of what I shall say, of that cruell fatality, which hath made both Germany, and all the Provinces neer it, a kinde of a Church-yard; it will very much import, to make some short mention; First of the quarrells and pretensions of the Emperours against France; and then of the state of the Empire it selfe, the Theater, of the most destructive, and deplorable War that ever was. But there was a necessity in it, to the end that the Prophesies might be accomplished: nor is there any end even yet.

Henry the second, seeing Germany in great combustion, by jealousies drawn from the difference of Religion, and being invited into Germany by the Protestants in armes against Charles, and offered the protection of that Party, and invited also on the other side by interest of State; sent thither the Duke of Montmorancy, with a puissant Army, who seized upon those three Bishopricks, by way of correspondence; and would have done the same to Strasburgh, if he had been able to get leave to march with his Troops through the Town, as he had done at Metz. But the conclusion of a Peace between the Emperour, and the Princes, stopped the progresse of the French, and made them return; as Metz did that of the Emperour, and forbide the Eagles any further flight.

Ferdinand the second, having triumphed over all his Enemies (whom the French by vertue of their Allyances,The affront of the Bishop of Verdun. had succoured with Councel, Men, and Mony) and being irritated besides, by the affront newly done to the Bishop of Verdun; seemed willing to require satisfaction; so to give exercise to his triumphant Forces, and make War with better conveniencie, and more ad­vantage, in Lorraine then in Italy. At least, the Cardinal was fearful least, he [Page 121]should take old quarrels into deliberation again, and send his Troops to re­place the Eagle at Verdun, which was beaten down to set ut the Flower de luce.

Wherefore, for the diversion of this tempest, and to make it burst upon Germany it self; he complotted, and projected with all his Allyances, hop­ing the luck would turne, and take away that Party,The utility of those Allyances through France. puffed up with so many Victories, redoubted for greatnesse, hated for the contributions, by which it exhausted Germany; and execrated, for the redemanding of the Eeclesiasti­cal Possessions, which was executed about that time. If this Dam were bro­ken, but by one single Victory, of what a vast profit would it be to France? The people would fall upon the Imperialists, as they formerly did upon the Lutherans; and so all that Party would be in confusion. Lorraine and Alsa­tia, would be but a Breakfast; the three Ecclesiastical Electors would in­fallibly cast themselves into the King of France's armes, thereby to shelter themselves from the fulminating fury of the Protestants; and by conse­quence, the Imperial Crown could not escape the head of his most Christian Majesty.

The Spaniards being shut up, and deprived of succour from Germany, would be easily droven out of the Low-Countries;The secret Al­lyance. and thus a certain se­cret Allyance, which was discovered and miscarryed since that time, would one day be a plank, or foundation to the universal Monarchy.

This great Cardinal, so admired, and glorious, after having broken the Hughenot Party, succoured the Duke of Nevers in Italy, and trodden upon the belly of the Savoyers; prepared himselfe (I say) for this most dange­rous designe; disposed the Protestants to it, by Father Ioseph, in the Assem­bly at Leipsick; Father Joseph at Leipsick. and laboured earnestly for the destruction of the House of Austria; as well knowing, that it was better to prevent, then be prevented, and in what credit he should be, amongst all such as sought the ruine of the Roman Catholick Faith, and that of the aforesaid Victorious House. But let us speak of the State of the Empire, before this horrible tempest began to bruise it.

CHAP. XIII. A Discription of the state of the Empire. The election of the King of the Romans.

VVE finde in history, that Charlemagne, King of France, Son to Pepin, and Grand-child to Charles Mared, going to Rome to defend Pope Leo, was saluted by him (to crown his merits, and recom­pence his services) Emperour of the West. I will not here enter into the dis­pute between the two Nations, of whether he were a German or no: But sure it is, that he was King of France, before he was Emperour; and the Germans themselves affirme, that he transferred the Empire, upon their Na­tion; yea, and that none can be elevated to that dignity, unlesse he be born a German: And so Maximilian of Austria being dead, Charles was preferred before Francis the first, King of France, for that he was born at Gaunt, a City of Low-Germany: and the arguments of the Elector of Trevirs, in the behalf of Francis, were refuted and rejected. Others alleadge, that to save the West, which was exposed to the excursions of the Barbarians, by that remore­nesse, or slacknesse of the Emperours of the East; it was transferred by the Pope upon the Gawles, or French; and that the race, or Charlemagne coming [Page 122]to saile, Pope Gregory the fifth transferred the Right of Election upon the Germans; abolished the Hereditary, and gave hope to Princes of vertue, to be able to ascend to this charge, which is the most glorious in the World.

The Emperours have been more absolute, then they are at present; and in the contentions with the Popes, from whom they receive their Crown, or at least their Confirmation, they have been much disadvantaged.

Henry the seventh, coming to die in Italy, every several Town assumed to itselfe, a peculiar principal; in such sort, as that the Emperours have had little there since, save onely the bare Title. Besides, the same Popes have caused troubles in Germany, on purpose to leave the domination to them there, and cut off the opportunity of coming to rub up old quarrels in Italy. Our Saviour indeed said, that his Kingdom was not of this world, and that his Apostles should not reign. The Primitive Supreme Bishops declared it, by the Crown of Martyrdom; but some others spurred on by ambition, have wrangled for another, which both made them odious, and their Authority despicable, in many places. And moreover, the peaceful nature of some Emperours, hath made them seeke rest, and neglect the Rights of Maje­sty.

The Empire is not Haereditary, but Elective; and when the Emperour is dead,The King of the Romans is ele­cted for great affairs. the Archbishop of Mentz writes to the rest of the Electors, to assemble themselves at Francfurt, within three months, either in person, or else to send their Embassadours. During the Interreign, or Vacancy, the Elector Palatin is the Vicar, or Lieutenant; and he who is elected King of the Ro­mans, is declared Heir. There three Ecclesiastical Electors, and four Secu­lar. The Arch-Bishops of Mentz, Trevirs, and Colein. The King of Bohe­mia, the Prince Palatin, the Duke of Saxony, and the Marquis of Branden­burg; who are not Kings, but may stile themselves the said Kings Compa­nions.

Being assembled at Francfurt, they make Oath to the Elector of Mentz, they will chuse one, who shall be capable of the Charge. They are obliged to finish the Election within thirty dayes; and may not go out of the Town, till all be accomplished. If the voices happen to be equal, he who receives the King of Bohemia's Vote, is infallibly proclaimed Emperour.

The King of the Romans is not chosen during the life of the Emperour, but for great Affaires; and he cannot any way faile of succession, as soon as the Emperour is dead. All is observed, according to the Golden Bull of Charles the fourth. The King of the Romans is obliged to take Oath, that he will not seeke to make the Empire Haereditary to his House; but that he will maintain all the Rights, and Splendor thereof,

There are two Fundamental Laws, namely the Golden Bull, and the Im­perial Capitulation; to the maintaining whereof he is bound by Oath. Which makes me finde their opinion very weake who praesume to sustaine, that the Emperour is a Mouarch; in regard that his Authority is so parted, and divided between him, and the Electors, that it looks, as if they were as­sociated, to help him beare this heavy burthen. Besides, since Germany hath been so distracted by the diversity of Doctrines, the Protestants have in­haunced so much of the Majesty to themselves, through the too timorous bounty, and moderation of some Emperours, since Charles the fifth, that his hath been but little more acknowledged, and adored, both in Germany, and Italy. And therefore, it is no wonder, if the Eagles Triumphant by so many Victories, have endeavoured to look back, upon some Rights which are now so many years old; and if a general Conspiracy of the Neighbours of the said Protestantes have been made, to hinder old Praetensions, though grounded upon very much equity, and justice. But those forreign Princes, [Page 123]who have thrust themselves into this quarrel, have stopped their eyes to ju­stice, opened them to interest of State, and to the means, of either praeserving or ingrandishing themselves.

CHAP. XIV

SInce we have spoken as much as is necessary to our purpose, of the Empe­rour, and the King of the Romanes, his Vicar, or Successour; it concerns us to say also somewhat, of the States of the Empire.

The first State. The first, and prime State therefore, is that of the Electours, as being the nearest to the Head, or Chief. They are the Fathers, and Senatours, and the maine, and firme Prop of this Edifice. They assist with their prudence, the Head which they have chosen, and are compared with the Kings of Eu­rope.

The Ecclesiasticks have the precedencie in this ranck; first, the Archbi­shop of Mentz; next, he of Trevirs; and then, he of Celein. The King of Bohe­mia, the Duke of Bavaria, who was advanced to the Electoral dignity, by the deposition of the Prince Palatin; and then he of Saxonie, and he of Branden­burgh.

The second State is constituted, first, by foure Archbishops: namely, of Magdeburgh, Salsburgh, Bremen, and Besansow; The second State. after whom follows the great Master of the Tentonick Order.

And afterwards, there take place, one and thirty Bishops, who are follow­ed by ten, or eleven Abbots, with the Title of Princes, as the Abbot of Ful­da &c. The secular Princes are placed after these Ecclesiasticks, and are in number, eighteen Families; the first whereof, is that of the Archdukes of Au­stria, divided into two branches, namely of Germany, and Burgundy And this Family hath of much praeheminence above that of the other Princes, as the Archbishops have, above the Bishops. Then, follows that of Bavaria, of Sa­xonie, of Brandenburgh, &c. After which sit the Abbesses, as there of Quedelem­burgh, of Esson &c. Some whereof have both the effect, and title, of Princesses, And lastly sit the Counts, and Barons, whereof there is a great number. Reinking to whom I referre the curious, calculates about eight and fifty of them.

The third State. The third state is compleated, by the Imperiall and free Towns, which are sixty five in number, or thereabouts: and they are to be considered two wayes; the former, and more noble whereof, is, that they immediately de­pend upon the Emperour, and have nothing at all to do with any body else, and the other, that these also depend upon the Emperour; but yet they owe some small recognitance, to the Prince, Lord, or Praelat, in whose territories they are seated: however they leave not thereby to be free, and to enjoy the rights of Royalty. So that these Towns possesse the ancient liberty; the privi­ledges of Princes; have their Session, and Vote in the Diets, and are tearmed the Noble member, and Pillars of the Empire, wherein they are incorporated, nei­ther more, nor lesse, then the Princes, and Praelats. They are divided into two Benches. The foure first, are Lubeck, Metz, Auxburgh, and Aix, or Aquisgra­ue. The other being in the quality of Subjects to Empire, are not called.

There is yet another companie of Towns, which by vertue of the union [Page 124]are called Hans-Towns; The Hans-Towns; which are composed, partly of such as are free; and partly Provinciall, and obnoxious. This said company, or V [...]ns hath no other ayme, or end, then that of commerce, and it was approved first, by Charles the fourth. It hath foure Classes, or Metropolitan Cities, to wit, Lu­beck, Colem, Brunswick, and Dansick; and they have an annuall Assembly at Lubeck, where they have their Charters, or Rolls. But theire last warrs have much altered all the orders, which were formerly kept.

The ten Gerclet. The German Empire is distributed into ten Cercles; Franconia, Bavaria, Austria, Swevia, that of the upper Rheyn; and that of the four Electours to­wards the Ribeyn [...] Wastphalia [...] Saxanie, Low-Saxonie and Burgundy.

Now the Emperour, as he is head of the Romane Empire, is bound to swear, that he will defend all the priviledges of the Empire; but that doth not at all derogate from his Majesty, in regard that all Kings, at their consecration do the same and he is also greater, then all the Members of the Empire, and may command them, as having received homage from them: and if when they be cited, or condemned, they [...]esose to appear, he publishes and pro­scribes them, by commanding some Prince neet hand, to execute his order by arms: from whence it follows, that as he is obliged to defend, and pro­tect both them, and their priviledges, so are they also bound to obey him, by Oath, and by vertue of the Fief he possesses. A happy Goverment, and a happy Germany, when the Members agree with the Head.

CHAP. XV

The motives of the Declime of the Engire. BEfore we speak of the causes of this last warre, which put Germany into that condition wherein we see her yet, and from which she begins by lit­tle and little, to be repayred; our Subject requires us to give a brief hint, of those which have so weakened this Empire, which all history, both pro­phane, and sacred, tell us, is to be the last.

The Pojes. The Popes were the first, who weakened it in Italy, and gave matter thereby, to the most ambitious of that Nation, to appropiate some States to themselves, as being either vacant, or desecred, by the troubles, or care lesness, of the Emperours: wherein they served themselves of divers pretexts; as either through zeal of devotion, and respect; or for the punish­ment of some faults, which they imputed to the said Emperous; or through the immensity of their own ambition; or else, by favouring the factions, of the Ghilphes, against the Gibellins, or Imperialists: in such sort, as the Papal Autho­ritie obumbrating, or overshaddowing, the Imperiall, hath both now quite away the heat thereof, as I have already said.

The Translation of the States. The Barbari­ans. Secondly, by the translation of the Seate of the Empire to Constantinople, and by the inundation of the Barbarians, which have come at certain times from beyond the Rheynt and from the North.

Besides, the Empire is much diminished, by some Provinces, and Towns, yea,The Kingdoms. and whole Kingdoms also, which upon divers praetexts, have loosen­ed themselves from this great Body, which are mentioned in history, and not for our purpose heer. And moreover, since the Germans have reduced the Empire within the praecincts of their nation, and chosen the Emperours anoughst themselves, by the exclusion of all strangers it is no wonder, if o­thers [Page 125]have separated themselves from them, and erected particular Govern­ments, according to the hunour of theirs.

But let us now come to the principall subject of all, drawne from the Ger­mans themselves: which makes the Empire so weak, that any neighbouring Prince very often dares brave and affront it:The diversity of Doctrines, and ambition. and this is the diversity of Re­ligions; the over great porencie of the Princes, and States, and distrust, in side, or dissidence, mingled with ambition. For remedie whereof, the Emperoun and Princes have had many conserences and it hath been agreed, & resolved, that there should be but two Religions tolerated in Germany; as namely, the Roman Catholick, & the confession of Auxburgh, which is the Lutheran. But the disease being too great to be cured by so gentle physick; and the house of Austria too powerfull, both in Spain, and the Low-Conntreys, not to give jea­lousie; distrust, and ambition, (sicknesses of State) have alwayes peeped out their heads, in the Diets, after much time lost in disputing for place, and prae­cedeucie. So that these being gotten into the interiour of the first, and ma­king little account of the languishing authoritie of the Emperous, have pro­duced the hatred, seditions, and warrs, which we have relared already, and those also, which are now going to describe.

From this diversity of Religions, sprang the warre, between Charles the fifth: John Frederick, Electour of Saxonie, Philip Landgrave of Hassia, and some other Protestants, which rendred the said Emperours luster, more glonous, and begat such a hatred in all the Protestant States, as is now grown almost irreconciliable.

There was a temperament, or kinde of agreement in Religion concluded afterwards, which was called The contract of Passavia, The contract of Passavia. which yet, being taken again into deliberation, hath since made a marveilous ope­ration, as we are about to shew. In this aforesaid Treaty, it was ordered, and setled, that the Protestants should enjoy all such ecclesiasticall goods, and re­venues, as they had formerly possessed; and that the rest should remaine in perpetuity, to the Catholicks. For example, the Catholick Bishops coming to embrace the Luheran Religion, should forthwith religne the place, to be occupated by another, who should make open, not feigned profession, of the Catholick; and so consecutively, of all the Cloisters, Abbies, and other digni­ties: which yet, the Lutherans cannot deny but they have conterveened, and contradicted, and that they retaine all such aforesaid goods, and revenues, against the will of the Testatonrs, and against all Rights, Justice, and E­quity.

Complaints a­gainst the House of Austria. But we must not also let passe in silence, the complaints which have been made by many of the States of Germany, against the house of Austrin, which hath uphold her self about two hundred years, in the Imperiall dignity, as if it were haereditary: a suspicion, ful of efficacie, which shocks after a manner, the elective right, and strongly opposes the justest maxime of State. To which it hath been answered, that the elections have alwayes been lawfull, and that at present, This house by means of her two Kingdoms, serves for a Bulwark to Germany, against the Turk. Besides that, their is hardly any one to be found in the whole body of the Empire, who is able, with the reveneues of one Fa­mily, to sustain, or uphold the greatnesse of the Majesty; wherewith Charles the fifth reproached those Princes, which were revolted from him. Were is is not (said hee) for my Low-Countryes, I could not maintain my Table: What profit have I of your Empire, but a great charge, and porpetual troubles? Inferting there­by, that the glory of this weighty burthen, was deat enough bought, with­out addition of disobedience.

After the decease of this invincible, and most vigilant Emperour, his suc­cessours, either through too much timidity, durst not make shew of seeing the sults, and errours which were committed, or cast them off, to the following [Page 126]Diets, which were often extinguished, in the very dispute of precedencie on­ly, as I have said already. And so the impunity of Vice enccuradging men to sin, not only the Bishops married, and kept their Bishopricks; but the saecu­lar Princes also seazed upon other ecclesiasticall Lands, and Goods, as it were for decencies sake, and every one in fine, would have his share thereof. The long possession of a thing ill gotten, warrants not the propriety therein, nor ex­cludes the true Owner from his lawful Right. But they who can defend it with armes, either mock, or defy the strength of the Lawes.

CHAP. XVI

AFter so many Victories gotten, by the Emperours Lieutenants; after ha­ving humbled the King of Denmark, and all the Protestants of his Par­ty: after having so often chastized Bethleem Gabor, destroyed the dreadful re­volt of the Peasants of Austria, and pardoned such, as were too deeply inga­ged in the Prince Palatines patty, who was deprived of his Stages, and fled for resuge, into Holland; and after the death of Mansfeldt, and his faithful Bishop, the Emperour resolved,She complaints of the Catho­licks. to satisfy the complaints of the Roman Catholicks, who demanded justice, upon such as by usurpation, detained many Possessi­ons, and goods, after the contract of Passavia. For being the Head of ju­stice, he could not deny them; and the Bishops are as well members of this great Body, as the other Princes: but it was to move a stone, which threatned the fall of the whole building. It was represented to him, that the Prorestants had very ill observed the Peace, and that the Catholicks had not dispured with them, what was already granted them, by the said contract; however it were done by force, and for the establishment of firme repose: but that they, not being glutted with those Prebendries, had leapt beyond their bargains, and against the Signed Promise, violently ravaged, and taken many other. But, we must not keep our word with Hereticks. Who must be upbraided with this maxine; he, who sayes it, or he, who does it?

The Emperour, upon mature deliberation, finding the equity of the cause, slighting the danger, which yet was most vilable; for he went about to shock the Electours, Princes, States, and Towns of the Empire, who would not suf­fer such dainty bits to be plucked out of their mouths, with out contesting, and hazarding all; even though they were forced to call in strangers.

A command to rander all eccle siesticell goods, taken after the Controll of Pas­savia. Wherefore, upon the sixth of March 1629, he sent a most expresse com­mand from his good City of Vienna, to all the Princes, and Towns of the Em­pire, forthwith to restore all ecclesiasticall Lands, or Goods, seazed, or occu­pated after the composition of Passavia, upon pain of losse, of all P [...]viledges, Rights, Immunities, and the Imperiall Eccommunication. The Thunder­bolt, which falls before the feet of the travayler, doth not so much astonish him, as this sentence did all the Protestants. But before we passe to this dis­asterous War, let us see the motives, and reasons of both patryes.

I have already shewed, upon what Right the Emperours command was grounded;There son why: the execution whereof was assured him to be facil enough, by so many victorious Armies, which it would be no less then evident temerity for them to oppose; since he had already ventered to expel the Heriticks out of his [Page 127]own Haereditary Countries, & had brought the sedition of the Peasants to a good issue. But, the occult causes were, that he could not better fix his Autho­rity, then by this way; in regard that, it he would be generally adored, and root the Imperial Crown fast in his Family, he must needs first resorm, and re­establish the Roman Catholick Religion every where. That he had a foor­ing in the Bahick Sea; and that since he had so well begun, he ought to pro­secute, and finish: That he was obliged to God, the Church, and the Holy See; and that at serves for nothing, to undertake, without perseverance, and the Iron must be struck whilest it is hot, &c.

Now the Protestants found this Command, of as hard digestion as the Belgicks, or Low-country people did the exaction of the Tenth Penny, A hard Pro­position. impo­sed upon them by the Duke of Alva. Men fight sometimes (sayes a learned Writer) with more resolution, for the Harth, then for the Altar. Wherefore,Pro arri & focis. it was held sit to oppose it, by some Protestation: and so, they beseeched his Majesty to suspend the execution thereof, till it were decided, in a Generall Diet. But, in the mean while, there grew murmuration, and grumbling every where, the hatred for Religion was renewed; and a most manifest aversion of the people, discovered.

The Emperour granted them a Generall Assembly at Ratisbone, The Assembly at Rathbone. and transported himself thither, at the same time, that the newes was brought him, that the King of Sweden was entred with an Army into the Territories of the Empyre. Whereupon, the Protestant Embassadours, even ravished with joy, required not only a Revocation of the said Edict, or Command, in order to the Ecclesiasticall possessions, but also that all might be restored to the same state wherein it was, before the Revolt. But Ferdinand would not hearken to this; for either he must make himself obeyed, or leave to Com­mand. Hereupon, the Embassadors sneaked away,And at Lepp­sick. and assembled them­selves at Leipsick.

The Neighbouring nations seeing this alteration, were not a little glad, to understand that there was a preparation made, to give this Majesty a ge­neral check in the very foundation, and root thereof. In a word, Leagues and Confoederations were concluded, and strangers, (who, by occult wayes, helped to fabricate this fire) called in, and embraced; the ambition of Spain not forgotten, which aymed at nothing but the Universal Monarchy: the Inquisition canvased, and the Jesuites, as Parricides, Incendiaries, Eno­mies to peace, and Authours of all sedition, coupled: The Roman Antichrist carried also his pack, by the writings of such, as whose whose party was sup­by the cruell lot of Armes; and in fine, by all the Protestants: The Imperial Majesty it self was exposed to the rage of the people, which wished for no­thing but a change. Yea, even the Imperial Townes, which suspected that Majesty, and which, by the licence of the change of Religion, had appro­priated to themselves all the aforesaid Lands and Goods, thrust on the wheel, augmented the distrust, and offered the profusion of their treasures, thereby to hinder the drawing of the principall source thereof.

It was also alledged, that the Princes and States, had had ground and cause to employ the Ecclesiasticall Lands, and Goods, to better uses; and that the Priests; and Monks, lived ill, fatted themselves like hogges, and gave scandal, to the whole world. That they had peacefully enjoyed them above sixty years, and that such of them, as were left them by their Ancestours, might be retaken by them, to provide for their children. In fine, complaints, reasons, and libels were not wanting: And after a great wind, commonly sol­lowes rain: so, all here being disposed, they came from words to blowes.

CHAP. XVII

The Allyance of the Duke of Bwaria, with the King of France, 1630. DUring the Assembly at Ratisbone, in the year 1630. Maximilian Duke of Bavaria, and Electour, made a League Defensive, and Offensive, with the King of France; whereby his Majesty promised to maintain the Electorat in the House of Bavaria, and defend it against any, who might be so bold as to attack it, with an Army of fifty thousand men, and he promi­sed the King to succour him, with four thousand Foot, and fifteen hundred Horse, and he wrought so much by his frequent suites, and instances with the Emperour (induced thereto by Cardinal Richellen) that he procured the Dignity of Generall to be taken away from the Duke of Frithland, Frithland dis [...] missed from his charge. who had alwayes so well served him, though by his behaviour he were growne insup­portable, chiefly to such as loved not the House of Austria. Those powers which are trayled by so many puissant Aemulators together, run post to destruction. This councell proved dammageable to the Emperour, and yet more to him who gave it; and he who invented it, was very likely to overthrow the whole Empyre.

The King of Sweden invi­ted to come into Germany. The King of Sweden, being advertised of all which passed in Germany, invi­ted by the Germans themselves; incited by France, England, Venice, the Ʋnited Provinces, and by occasion (which he took up by the Forelock) as al­so by his own peculiar interests, began to make his preparatives. There wanted nothing for a potent League, but Causes, and Pretexts, whereof there would be found enough, though it were no more, then every ones own advantage apart, which is so strong, that it ordinarily carries the ballance, how full soever it be of reason and justice. Men of this Age adore it: neither is it without ground, that a certain learned person calls it, the Idoll of these times.

Towards the beginning of the year 1630. Europe was in a kind of Crisis, war in Italy, Germany full of old souldiers, who struck terrour wheresoever they passed. France, apprehending lest this storm should fall upon her, and that the Eagles should come and nestle again in those three Townes, which were taken from them (as I have noted already) hindied a Treaty of Truce, by hindring the acceptation of the Propositions, and sent to the very bottom of the North, to awaken Gustavus Adolphus to a League. Nor needed there much eloquence to pers wade him, who looked asquint already, upon those puissant Troops, upon the Baltick Sea, which draw near him. But, know­ing how he had been caught by his Neighbour, he would not be content with promises, but required a surety at Amsterdani, before he would passe any further,

England, besides the generall interest, had that of the Prince Palatine, which she conuld not handsomely abandon, in such a conjuncture; and yet was she also fain to give assurance for moneys, before she could enter the League of this great Captain.

The States Generall were much concerned therein, since by the growth of the House of Austria, they foresaw their certain ruin, in regard of the succour, which she would be able to give the Spaniards. And moreover, they might well fear, lest all the States of Germany humiliated, or joyned to those of the Emperour, he might come to redemand some Townes amongst them, which are yet noted at the corner of the Eagle or Empyre.

The Venetians, not warmed with the zeal of Religion, as the Protestants were, as being of the same with this House; found for the interest of their State, that it was necessary, to put the said House into such termes, as might not give so much jealousie. And so, the Protestants being inflamed, and incouraged, by the Catholicks, which were interessed, and desirous to see some disorder spring up in this powerful Body; undertook the same de­signe. And then it was, that the Empire was to be torne in pieces, since the Germans themselves conspired her ruine, with her Enemies, and subtra­cted themselves from her obedience, because they could not endure her Ma­jesty. The House cannot faile to be burnt, when the very owners themselves, as well as the enemies, help to set it on fire. This unhappinesse was reserved for the latter times. Let us see the King of Sweden come in; for he will dance bet­ter then all who came before him.

CHAP. XVIII

VVHere shall I be able to finde tearmes, and Inke black enough, to expresse, and write tragically enough, the cruel, and dismal ef­fects, of this sanguinary, and horrible War? Where shall I chuse words of energy, or force enough, to curse the inhuman actions, and unna­tural Tragedies, which have been acted in wretched Europ, and which are not yet ended; and that, onely by the immense ambition of some few per­sons? It is lawful openly to blame Vice, but not such as commit it: It is God onely, who must judge, and we poor Subjects must bend our shoulders, and expect our deliverance from above.

About Mid-Summer, in the year 1630. the King of Sweden entred Ger­many with an Army; having first cleansed the Isle of Rugia, and the borders of Stralsund, from the Imperial Garrisons. The reasons which he published, for his coming as an Enemy, were.

First, because his Embassadours had not been admitted, to the Treaty of Lubeck.

Secondly, in regard the Imperialists came against him in Prussia.

And thirdly, for that some Letters of his, which he sent to Bethleem Gabor, had been intercepted, in full peace. But these, were but pretexts: for the true, and moving grounds were these.

His reasons. First, because the Emperour had deprived his kinsmen, the Princes of Meckelemburgh, of their Dutchyes.

Secondly, for that he had built Forts, in all the Havens; and made Ships, to render himselfe potent upon the Baltick Sea, with designe to passe one day further into Sweden, then he was to expect, that the Eagles would be suffe­red to coast.

And lastly, in respect there was some apperance of extending his domi­nation in Germany; and in a word, it is alwayes profitable to fish, in troubled waters.

The answer to the aforesaid reasons. The Emperour answered, that he himselfe had begun, by putting a Gar­rison into Stralsund, and that there could be no treating with him, without drawing it from thence.

As for his Letters, besides that all the plots, and practices, both of himself, [Page 130]and his Allyes, were already discovered; it was impossible, but they must tend to his disadvantage, being directed to a man, who had as often revol­ted, as opportunity was offered him to do it; and who never kept his faith, but when he wanted occasion to break it.

In relation to the Baltick Sea, he had at least (being Chief, and Empe­rour) as much to do with it, as Gustavus had.

That the succour which he sent the King of Poland, was sounded upon the same Maxims, upon which himselfe had succoured the King of Denmark, and Stralsund.

In order to the Dukes of Meckelemburgh, he objected, that he had nothing to do, to controwl him in Germany; and that himselfe would not take it well, that he should medle with any of his kingdom.

That his cares were open to Intercessions, but not to Commands.

But, all these arguments served for nothing; there must be blowes. For, the King was sure of his Allyes, and of the inclination of all the Protestants, whose Cause, and Religion, he vanted, that he came to defend. More­over, this generous Prince, being brought up in arms, was sure, that, could he but once come to beate that old Captain,Tilly. that victorious Rock, against which all his Enemies had made shipwrack; all the Lutherans would lend him their hands, from the one end of the Empire, to the other; and then, what honour, and what glory should he obtain? And if it hapned other­wise, he might consolate himselfe, with all such other Warriers, as had suf­fered the like disgrace; though yet still, with this advantage beyond them, that his Enemies could not follow him, into his kingdom. In brief, he wanted but the getting of one General Battel, to put into his hands the two thirds of the Empire: and one more for all; and Italy in, to the bargaine.

King Gustave leagues with the Dake of Pomerania. Whilest he was treating the League with Duke Bogislaus (who received him in Stetin) and driving the Imperialists out of Pomerania, and Meckelen­bargh; being fortunate in many Encounters, and chiefly, in that which was offered for the succour of Colbergh (where the Imperialists were knocked, and Torquaro Conty forced to incamp himselfo at Gartz) the Protestants as­sembled themselves secretly at Leipsick, from whence they communicated with him, and amongst themselves, about the means of retaining the Eccle­siastical Lands, and Goods in question; of maintaining their Religion; and reducing, and restraining the Empire, to the same state, wherein it had been before the troubles. All kindes of defence are authorized, when there is fear of the diminution of estate, and State, together with that of Religion. It seems, that in these times, men may dispense with their faith or word gi­ven, even upon meer doubts; and that it is lawful, upon meer apprehensions onely, though without any ground, to withdraw ones selfe from obedience. But dissidence, and power to hurt upon occasion, have more weight in State­interest, then in Right; and they, who have not Peace, and Justice, for the scope of their armes, do not make War, but commit robberies; for the end of War, ought to be Peace.

He blocks the sea Towns. Now, the King spent all the Summer, in blocking up the maritine Places; raising new Troops; exciting the Inhabitants to expell their Guests, and receive their old Masters; wherein they shewed themselves so good Ser­vants, that their fear effectively appeared in all parts. Bogistans wrote com­plaints, and excuses to the Emperour; but they brought nothing back, but reproaches, and condemnations.

In the mean time, the Imperial Army and that of the League, were with­out a Head; because the Duke of Frithland had obeyed the Emperours Or­der; and General Tilly had a minde to submit to some pious inspirations, which commanded him to leave this Trade, and passe the rest of his dayes in the service of his Heavenly Master: In such sort, as there was much [Page 131]a doe, yea, and many great Divines were faint to display their eloquence, to make him re-admit this Burthen upon his shoulders. For he considered, that he had alwayes had Fortune as his Handmaid; that he had acquired as much glory, as any one Captain in the World; and that all this might change; that in a great Calme, a great Storme is to be feared; and that it often happens, that the soundest, and best disposed bodies, are those, which most easily fall into grevous sicknesses. No, no, (said he) let another younger then I am, untangle this Web: It is a faire Field to winne the Lawrel; since the dispute is about Religion, and the Authority, of the Prime man of the World; the Cause is just; and the more difficulty it hath in it, the more glory will it also have. Sweat, and Dust mingled with blood, will alwayes revive, and quicken the Palmes, and Bayes, wherewith his head shall be crowned. Mine begin to way old with me; and I will now consecrate them to the foot of a Crucifix.

O how happy had he been, had he followed this connsel, and put himself into a Monastery, as he had projected! But his delights were to be ming­led with bitternesse; his glory was to be obscured; and he was to taste the condition of a Conquered, as well as that of a Conquerour. The Crosse, which he had a minde to embrace in a Cloister,The praise of Tilly who re­takes the Ge­neralate. was but exteriour, and vo­luntary; but this was to be active, and essential. There were published of him, these three things; That be let no day slip, without hearing Masse: That he had never touched a woman; And that he never lost Battel.

Let us leave him taking the charge, and care, of ranging the Souldiers again into good order, and discipline; and see what passed at Magdeburgh, since the year 1628.

CHAP. XIX

MAgdeburgh is an Imperial Town, in the Country of Saxonie, situated upon the River of Elbe, grown very rich, and puissant, and by conse­quence insolent, by the conveniency of Trade; It put Charles the fisth to much vexation, and trouble, and he proclaimed an Outlawrie a­gainst it, and gave Maurice Duke of Saxonie the execution thereof; who, either through collusion, or otherwise, forbore to take it; and from thence came the German Proverb:Magdeburgh, the first di­sturbance thereof. Metz and Magd refused to dance with the Empetour. After Luthers Doctrine was planted there, the Arch-Bishops authority began to be much vilifyed, and consequently, that of the Emperour. But let us now come to the state of the controversie.

This Town chose Augustus Son to the Elector of Saxonie, for her Ad­ministratour. Ferdinand consented not to this Election; and the Pope, de­sirous to restore his credit in that Country, together with that of the Empe­rour; established the Arch-Duke Leopold, who is at present Governour of the Low-Countries, for the King of Spain. The Imperialists seized upon some places neer it, and extorted a summe of money from it for their Solde, or Pay; and by continuing to demand a greater, provoked the aversions of the Cirtizens, and encouraged them to take arms, and chase them away.

They seized also upon some Barkes, which went to the Country of Meckelenburgh; so that Wallenstein at length was faine to come and revenge [Page 132]that Commotion.Appeased by Wallenstem. Brief, the Town was invested, temerity turned into re­pentance, and arms into supplications: in conclusion, all was pardoned, they dispensed with for a Garrison, and the Forfeit of a hundred and fifty thou­sand Riv.-Dollars, which was liberally remitted, out of respect to some cer­tain Princes: though yet, all this made them not a whit better Servants, to Ferdinand. Thus, was the first bout past; but there followed a second, which brought an utter ruine, and that the most miserable one, that ever fell upon any Town; I will be bold to say, then that of Troy, even though all were true, which hath been written thereof by the Greeks, and then that of Forusalem, Saguntum, and Numantia: yea, of Sancorra, and Tirle­mour. But we will deliver the motives thereof, and the Prodigies, which praeceded it.

The couse of the disturbance. The Arch-Dukes Embassadours were sent to Hall, and Magdeburgh, to press the Inauguration, or Investure, re-demand the Churches, and dis­mount the Evangelical Canonries. This infinitely displeased the Admini­stratour Christian of Brandenburgh, who could not brook, that such a dignity, together with so great Revenues (wherewith he could maintain himself ac­cording to his quality) should be forced from him: Nor was he ignorant, of how the Electour of Saxony took this proceeding, with what eyes these new Catholicks were looked on, and that Fortune did forward the valiant, and hinder the timid: and therefore, he fell to work.

On that one side, he perceived the Assembly of Leipsick, and the inten­tion thereof: on the other, the King of Sweden, who made great progress, and who was expected by all, as a true Liberatour, or Deliverer, and in the middle, all the people extremely affectionate to the Party, and desirous of nothing more, then to be in action for it. We alwayes covet that which is hurtful to us, and ask that, which we ought to shun.

The A Imini­stratour enters into the Town, and gaines the people. He entred into Magdeburgh disguised, with Marshal Falkenbergh, and brought things so to pass by his practises, and shifts, that he gained the Principall of the Town privately; and they, the people publickly. He ask­ed them, whether they would hold with the King Sweden, and with him? To which they answered with a loud voyce, Yea. Ah! Blind people, what do you? You tumble both your fortunes, and lives into apracipice, by a fatality, which no body can comprehend, and yet lesse, resist. You have forgotten your first sicknesse, but you will perish, in the relaps. You see not any of the Prodigies, which admonish, and threaten you: One part of your Walls, and Bulwarks, tell you by their tottering, that they are to be thrown downe, and that flaming sword, which appeared aver your Town five or six moneths before your ruine, whilst you stept, announced to you, that fire and sword should destroy you. Prepare your selves to suffer Armes, since you demand warre; he who laves danger, shall perish in it.

Now this was a Master-piece for the King of Sweden, as being one of the chief Instruments, to smooth the way to his victories. For this Town retarded the Armes of the Imperialists, and opened the passage, to those of the Swedes; who thereby got meanes to hunt them quickly out of all Pomerania, and Meckelenburgh, and terrified them, in fine, like an Earthquake, so that they knew not to what Saint to pray most. They had their enemies within, with­out, and on every side. If they opposed such as were before, they were bea­ten behind:The victory of the [...]wedes in Pomerania, and Meckelen­bergh. so such sort, as that the first year, Gustavus having made an Ally­ance with: Duke Bogislaus, cleansed Pomerania, and Meckelenbergh, by almost a general Insurrection of the people, and Generall Tilly's absence, The Ma­ritine Townes, as Colbergh, Rostock, Damitz, and Wismaer, when they had been very long blocked up, yeelded themselves one after another, for want of succour; and the King, having wedged up the Imperialists, asfar as into Silesia, carried on the war, to the very bank of the Elb; but it was after the elestruction of Magdeburgh, as we shal forthwith shew. He found a little repug­nance [Page 133]in Pomerania, from them, who knew Perdinands forces; but his violent ar­guments made them bow, & his complaints moved the Electors also to change their note, who had not qualified him, in their Letters, with the title of : King. He frighted the Ladies at Berling, and got Spawdan for his retreat. In brief, they who invited him, were constrained to se-joyn themselves in apparence from him, and make a shew to apprehend, and fear him; though in their soules, they adored him, as their deliverer: but this dissimulation caused the ruine of Germany, and repentance in them, who so dexterously served themselves of it. The Administratour being glad boyond measure, to see that his design had succeeded so well, hoped to be very shortly in a condition, not only to expell his enemies, but to advance the war also, to some other part.Papenheim ha­stens, and be­gius the Siege, 1630. But Papenheim posting thither, succoured the Castle of Hall, retook forth with all all the Towns, stopped up the Fox in his hole, and began the fatal Siege of [...]hisu [...] ­happy Town, the 18. of December 1630.

The King, seeing his enemies engaged in a long and tedious Siege, and desirous to serve himself of the advantage, thought of another diversion; and so, he sent Francis Duke of La [...]enburgh, with some Troops, towards the Elb [...], to raise a great fire there;Chastises Duks Francis near the Elbe. but Papenheim quenched it with their own blood; took the said Duke prisoner in a small Bark, and sent him to the Emperour, for not having kept his promise, which he gave him, never to bear Armes against him. Having thus furiously dispatched this Com­mision, he came back to the Siege, and Tilly having mustered his Ar­my, though he found it not so great as he conceived,Tilly in Mec­kelenbergh. marched neverthe­lesse to Meckelenbergh.

Gustave, the other side, seeing his onemies melt before Magdeburgh, and having performed very great Exploits, both in Summer, and Autumne, marched in the month of December, up the Oder, to manifest thereby that he was more vigorous in the winter, then the Summer. In effect,Tilly returns to the Siege, and and the King beats the Im­perialists as Francfu [...]t. the Imperialist durst not expect him at Gartz; but, after the loste of many of their men, retyred themselves in confusion, and made a stand again at Francfurt, upon the same River, though yet he returned, and intrenched himself, with­out hazarding any combat at all, or opposing Tilly, who took Newbranden­burgh, and put the Garrison to the sword, before his face. But he had his revenge, and made Tilly return towards Magdeburgh, whilest himself took Frankfurt, in the month of April 1631. with incredible felicity, beat the Em­perours old Bands; flew above three thousand upon the place, and forced the rest to double their pace, towards Silesia.

After having plucked out this thorne, he bent all his thoughts, to the succour of Magdeburgh, where we will leave him, to see what passed at that famous Assembly of Leipsick, where there was present that renowned Capu­cin, Father Joseph, to animate, together with the other Embassadours, the Protestants, to warre against the Catholick League. But interest of State is more considerable then Religion; the Body, then the Soule: this world, then the other, and man, then God: If Right must be wronged, it must be done, only to gain a kingdom; in all other other things, piety must be reveranced. This proceeding had no other justice, then reason of State; and yet, the Reformates will be sure, not to excite the Catholicks to the destruction of any nation, which purely followestheir Doctrine. When you shall see the abomina­tion of desolation, save your selves upon the Mountains.

The Assembly of Leip sick was convocated by the Electour of Saxony, as Head of the Protestants, thereby to hinder the restitution of the Ecclesiasti­cal Lands, and Goods; to succour a Magdeburgh, and joyn with the Swedes, to resist the Emperour, whose potency was too formidable to them. And this was the ground of their calling King Gustave into Germany, to be Cap­tain Generall of all the forces; who, being fortified by the Allyances of [Page 134] France, England, and the Conforderated States of the Low-countries, promised himselfe no lesse then the Empyre it self, if he could winne but one Battail.

CHAP. XX

They arm every where. VVHilest the Embassadours of the Princes, Imperial Towns, and Prote­stans States, were treating an Allyance, and the King was grow­ing formidable; the Drummes were beating, and the Trumpets sounding every where; in such sort, as that the two Electours, in the month of July 1631, seeing themselves with an Army on foot of twenty thousand men, threw off their vizard, wrote to the Emperour, as accusing him of ha­ving broaken his Oath, overthrown the Peace, and Liberty of Germany; and in fine,Complaints against the Emperour. of having taken away the bonds of Religion: And if he revoked not that Edict for Restitution of Ecclesiastical Lands, and Goods, and that there were not some means found out to remedy these diforders, the whole Empyre would go to rack. But it was now too late to talk of remedies; strangers be­ing already gotten in, and Ferdinands honour too deeply ingaged. Nor did their distrusts, and jealousies derogate one jot, from the justice of the Edict; no more then their possession of so many yeares made them true, and lawfull Proprietaries: For, That which is differed, is not lost. And for the praescription, it served for nothing; it being as lawful for the Emperour, to take the said Lands, and Goods from them by way of Justice, as it had been for them to dispossesse the Ecclesiasticks thereof by violence, or to re­tain them, against the agreement made, after they had withdrawne them­selves from the ancient Church,Refused by other. to marry: and so much the rather, because he was obliged thereto by his Authority, Right, and Interest. Besides, he wanted not arguments to retort. For, he accused them of deceit; for that, under pretext of consulting, they had assembled themselves, to take Armes, and joyn wich Gustave: That it was they, who had long agoe, ruined the supports of Religion, and divided Germany by factions, and distrusts, to the detriment of the publick quiet; and that himself, as being the Head, was bound to restore all to the former splendour, and good intelligence. So eve­ry one pretended to have right on his side; and the sword was to do the office.

Now Tilly, who by the strength ofGold. Ducats, had opened the consci­ence, had purchased the Pen of a Secretary, knew all that was treated in the said Assembly; and effectively saw, that there was neither Burgh, nor Village under the jurisdiction of the Protestants, where souldiers were not listed.

Tilly passes into Hastia. Wherefore he passed into Hassia, where he found the Landgrave William much changed, as being far more mindfull, of what he had concluded at Leipsick, then of what he had promised the Emperour at Vienna: For, he refused both Garrison, and Pension, as also the casheering of his forces; and shewed himself resolute; in fine, by the most manifest signs of aversion he gave, to defend himself, if he were attacked. Upon which, Tilly preparing himself to make him sing another tune,Returns to the Siege. was informed, that the King advan­ced towards the Elbe, and so his menaces were but Chimera's; for he was forced to return to the Siege.

Count Turstem­bergh in Swave and Wittem­berg. The Count of Turstembergh, an old Souldier, stood not with his Arms a­crosse; for there was work enough cut out already, without expecting any more. Wherefore, he was sent into, Swaveland, and Ʋlme, both which he quickly ranged, and from thence, into the Dutchy of Wirtembergh, where the eleven thousand men newly raysed, were not strong enough, to keep the Duke within the League: in such sort, as that those Provinces were constrai­ned, to renounce the Protestant allyance, almost as soon as it was known, that they had sworne to it.

All these commandments were prosperous enough, in High Germany: but the face of all things was changed, in Low-Saxonie, and the Maritine Towns (the principal subject of the distructs) which had long been blocked up, and put themselves again, into King Gustaves hands.

Tilly and Papenheim, being resolved rather to dye, then abandon the Siege, dissembled their losses received, and continued it with so much order, that they quickly made themselves masters,All the Forts taken. of all the Forts and Out-works; so that there remained nothing but the Town, which perished, more out of hatred, and by the industrie of wise Falkembergh, then by her own strength. The Inhabitants were summoned to render; the Mines were ready, and the hand listed up to strike: and yet, through their obstinacie and blindnesse, they would needs expect extremityes, which at length they found. For Papenheim, irritated, as well by their flowts, as by their con­tumatious resistance, entred first by force, and was repulsed by the Valour of the Marshal, who being killed by a bullet,And the Town by force. which is all burnt. the Inhabitants quickly retreated into their houses; the neerest whereof he commanded to be fired; and almost at the very same instant, the fire was seen very far from thence, neer the Elbe, and so, in lesse then four hours, this fine Town was reduced into ashes, whi­lest the Souldiers were fighting with the Citizens, for plunder, without ta­king any care at all, to extinguish the devouring flames.

This was the end of that deplorable Town, the ashes whereof produced such animosities amongst the Lutherans, and Reformates, against the Imperia­lists, that they cannot be highly enough expressed; and principally against Tilly, whose actions they carped, and said, that he had stained all his gallant Victories, with the smoaky ruines of Megdeburgh. What ever were in the matter, true it is, that Tilly, after this ransack, found fortune alwayes against him; and the Protestants reproached him with the indignation, and venge­ance of God, for the shedding of so much innocent blood.

The Catholicks, on the other side, retort the fault upon the insolencie of the Burghers, or Townsmen, who refused honorable conditions, when there was time for them: and whilest the gate was yet open to favour, and pardon: and say besides, that the Swedes, seeing the place lost, lest it on fire, for feare least it should fall entyre, together with the Magazin, into the hands of their enemies; alledging for proof thereof, that the fire was kindled, in many parts of the Town, from which the imperialists were very far off; though yet indeed, when souldiers are once gotten into a place by force, they make no account at all of command. But really, had they been able to enjoy this vi­ctory, by an honourable composition, they would have been able by the con­veniencie of the passage, and the Bridge, to keep the warre alwayes in Meck­clemburgh; succour the places besieged, and have Westphalia behind them: for; a little before the taking of this Town, they had forsaken the Bridge of Das­saw, upon information, that the King was coming thither, and for fear least he should serve himself of the said passage. But however, these sparkles incompassed all Germany with a fire, which lasted till the year 1649. Change of Religion, Commodityes, Allyances, Situation, and Traffick, had made this Town very insolent, with impunity: but the pot goes so often to the water, that at length, it returns crackt. As long as the Relicks of St. Norbert rested there, [Page 136]they saved (according to the opinion of many) the Town from the thunder­bolt; but after they were secretly stolne way, the wrath of heaven fell upon it, and crushed it, Had not Ʋlyffes stolne the Image of Minerva, Troy had not pe­rished.

Magdeburgh, being lost in her ruins, and the poor inhabitants buryed, or burnt in their houses, nothing was left to the conquerours, but a just displea­sure, to see the desolation thereof. Tilly marched with his army; entred into Saxonie; Tilly goer into Saxonie. took many Towns; wrote to the Duke, and assured him, that if he renounced not the League, he would compell the Emperour to call strangers, into Germany, as well as the Protestants had done, by inviting the Swedes, and all the Princes, by choosing Gustave, for head of the union, and Protectour of the Interests of the said League.

The Electour was extremly afflicted, to see his countrey was become the Theater, where all the Armyes were to begin the tragaedie. But he was re­proached, that it was the recompence of the so many, and so great services, as he had done his Imperiall majesty; and that, as being a Lutheran, he ought to be chased our, as well as the rest. Wherefore, he beseeched the King to make haste; but he temporizing, and demanding Wittembergh for his retreat, he offered him all his Country: by which franknesse, he gave him so much contentment, that he resolved to succour him, without any condition at all.

Before this, Gustave worsted Tilly before the Fort of Werben, for he suffered him to draw neer him,Tilly beaten near Werben. under praetext that his Canon was nayled, and Tilly having sent spies to his Camp, for this effect, and understanding that all was quiet, conceaved that his enterprize would not faile to succed; and so was re­pulsed with much losse; and a little after, he lost yet three Regiments more; whereby he was taught, that he had to do, with a man who was neither Novice, nor. Apprentice, and that he must dispute lustily, to get any advan­tage upon him.

But, he was not aware, that his mifortune followed him to closely, and that his thirteen years Victorie was to be shortly contaminated, by the losse of one only Battail: a Battail, I say, which overthrew the house of Austria; destroy­ed so much, and so great progresse, and exposed the Catholicks, to great af­flictions. Lansbergins foretold, There shall come a King from the North, who shall cause troubles in Germany. Oh Bishops! (said he), how much will you have to suf­fer? &c.

CHAP. XXI

The battail of Leipsick the 17 of Septem­ber, 8631: KING Gustave being joyned to the forces of the Electours, a resolution was taken, to goe, and face General Tylly: who having the wind favou­rable, and taken the Town of Leipsick, incamped himself hard by, and stood fast, to expect the Armyes of the confederates. This Battail, wherein were hazarded the Capps of two Electours, the liberty of the Princes of Germany; the conquests of so many years, and the whole hope of the Roman Catho­licks, was very bloudy, and the old bands, which had never been scensly, gave ground here.

The Saxons began the Shock, or Onser, whilest the king enlarged his Camp, [Page 137]to get the winde. But they withstood it not long, before they ran; and their very flight made the King winne the Victorie. We are taught by hurt; and mis­fortune it selfe is good, for something. There needed nothing to cause disorder, for the Imperialists pursued the Saxons so far, that they gave the Swedes occa­sion to gain, with little trouble, their Camp, their Canon, and the Winde; and Generall Horne, flanking them in their pursuite, put them into such confusion, that they knew not one another, and hindred them from re­turning to their own Body, from whence they had more hotly, then wifely unfastened them selves.

Tilly, seeing this rowte, gave order for the Canon to be regained; where­upon, Papenheim with his Horse, gave the Swedes two such furious Charges, as that had it not been for the presence of brave King Gustave, it was likely, that they, who had alwayes been accustomed to vanquish, would also have triumphed now. But he exhorting his men, both by his Majesty, actions, and eloquence; and a terrible execution, being done upon the Imperialists, as well by their own Canon, as by that of their Enemies; their Cavalrie began to fly. Tilly followed, though he were wounded, and thereby gave the lye to such as had impudently published; that he was invulnerable, by vertue of some certain Characters, or Charms.

If the Imperiall Horse, had done their duty, as well as the foot theirs, the confederates had runne hazard to loose all. But the Foot being abandoned,The valour of the Imperial Foot. fought so valliantly, that they were faine to turne the ordnance upon five Re­giments, which were rallyed, and fortifyed a part before they could break them. All the Baggage, Artillery, Munition, and sixscore Coulers fel into the Conquerours hands.

Now, who will have forward trust, to his own strength, and power? Who will presume to rely upon the number of his Victories? Who will beleeve that fortune can be stopped, with a Nayle of Diamant? You see, that an Ar­my of foure and twenty thousand Caprains (that is, all old Souldiers) were broaken, in the plaine, and open Field. Was i [...] for want of courage, or expe­rience. By no meanes. By whom? By Souldiers, who understood it better then they? Neither shall we finde the cause, in the Justice of the Party! Least of all: for every one thinks, he hath equity on his side; and besides, we must not judge of Right and Valour, by ambiguous, and underraine e­vents. Moreover, we are taught by practice, that Fortune ranges her self or­dinarily with usurpers, because they are full of courage, and the Countreys, they hold, of ill humours, factions, and partialities.

This bloody battail, which was the seventh of September, 1631, which was called a Day of blood, by the famous Astrologer Horlicins; and which changed the countenance of the Affaires of Germany. And the news of this victorie, (which got strength by going) unspeakably rejoyced, not only all the Protestants, but also all such, as to whom those glorious Fiagles seemed too proud, and so much undertaking.

The number of the dead, was very great, by the obstinat resistance of the combattants; nor was that of the prisoners small; which amounted (according to the opinion of some Authors) to thirteen thousand men. The darknesse of the night, sheltered such as fled; however they could not all es­cape the rage of the Peasants, who cut: the throates of three thousand of them.

Tilly retyred, by the way of Hall, towards the Weser; passed through Hassin, conferred with the Bishops of Wurtzburgh, Tilly retyred himself into Bavaria. and Bamburgh; whom he upbraided, with the contempt of his advice, which was, that they should open their purses, to raise a new Army, and not expect, till he were oppressed, by all the forces of Germany together. This done, he departed to­wards his Master the Duke of Bavaria. And General Aldrwiger, hearing of this defeat, and observing small desire in his Army, to make head against [Page 138]the Swedes, who were already reported to be invulnerable, by vertue of certain Spolls, or Characters; was forced to return towards Franconie, and from thence, also into Bavaria.

The King, having received the Congratulations of his victory, and pro­testing, that he would pursue the old Corporall (so called her old Tilly) to the end of the world;The King goes goes into Fran­conie. prosecuted his point towards Franconie, took Coninx­hoff, and Wurtzburgh, after having reduced Halberstade, and Erfurt; (and this last voluntarily received a Garrison from him, though it had flatly re­fused any from Tilly) and from thence, he went to salute the River Mayne, where Francfurt threw open her Gates, and Hannaw yeelded her self to him, This done, he divided his Army, sent one part of it towards the Elbe, let the Duke of Saxony recover his lost places,And the Duke of Saxony, in Bohemia. and afterwards march towards Bo­henia, with General Arnham, who took Prague, and Eguer.