Add MS 6873

Volume I. In folio, folio 366. XVI and XVII century.

A. Six letters , written by the Emperor Maximilian II, Rodolph II and Ferdinand II

1. From the Emperor Maximilian II to Pope Gregory XIII, accrediting to him, the Imperial Councillor John Alexander, sent to request of the Pope the preferment of Don Francisco de Mendoça, on the ground of his descent, virtues, learning and ‘this intercession’. Dated Vienna, 19th October [1574.] Autograph, (Latin.) Folio I [The preferment requested was probably a Cardinal’s hat; if so, the application was unsuccessful.]

2. From the Emperor Rodolph II to Pope Clement VIII informing him of the capture of Râb* in Hungary on the 29th March, by the troops under the command of Baron Adolf Schwartzenberg, who forced the royal white gate, by means of a petard, and slew the Pacha [Pasha] in command and 1600 Turks. Dated Prague, 4th April, 1598. (Latin.) On vellum, under the Emperor’s sign manual, with the great seal. Folio 3

*Jaurinum, German Gewer, Italian. Gravarin, Gall. Javarin. V. Cayet, Chronologie septenaire, pages 22-24, and Savanarola, volume II, page 7, where an engraving of this action is given, and also in Voc. ‘Arrabo’.

3. From the same to the same, reciting the wish of the Prince of Transylvania [Sigismund Bathori] to be divorced from his wife, and to enter the Church, and detailing the particulars of his abdication in favour of the Emperor, before the States, who swore allegiance to the Imperial Envoys. The prince had departed for the Duchies of Silesia, Oppelen, and Ratibor, granted to him for life by the Emperor; The Princess, with the title of Countess of Weissenburg, (Alba Julia), was to remain till the arrival of the Archduke Maximilian, the Emperor’s brother, as governor. To these arrangements the Emperor requests the Pope’s consent, and also to the Prince’s divorce, upon whom he further requests the Pope to confer a Cardinal’s hat. Dated Prague, 22 April, 1598. (Latin.) On vellum, under the Emperors sign manual; with the great seal. Folio 4. The application for the Cardinals hat was unsuccessful.

4. From the same to Raimund, Count of Tours, etc, the Imperial Orator to Pope Clement VIII, reciting, that the cession of Transylvania was completed, and the Prince put into possession of the Duchies of Oppelen and Ratibor, but that he was very pressing for a Cardinal’s hat; commanding the Count, therefore, to urge the Pope’s consent to his wishes. Dated Prague, 6th July 1598. (Latin.) On paper, under the Emperor’s sign manual, countersigned by Io. Barvilius; with the great seal. Folio 5.

5. From the same to Pope Clement VIII, thanking him for his communication, through the Imperial Orator the Doctor Perzen, deprecating all future mention of the unfortunate issue of the siege of Canissa, and earnestly requesting further assistance against the Ottoman power, especially as the meeting of the Diet and of the Circles of the Empire is approaching, and he is consulting with the Septemvirs of the Empire, on the measures to be laid before them. He has sent a special messenger to the King of Spain [Phillip III], and an envoy to the King of France [Henri IV], but he hopes the Pope, as their head, will set the example. He suggests to the Pope that as Italian Soldiers have always suffered from the long passage, and consequent hardships, that it might be better to allow him a sum of money to enable him to maintain a certain number of troops inured to the climate, but in the Pope’s name. For further communications he refers to Cardinal Pallavicini, and to the Duke of Sessa, orator of his Catholic Majesty, until his own Orator’s return. Dated Prague, 5th March 1602. (Latin.) On vellum, under the Emperor’s sign manual; with the great seal. Folio 7.

6. From the Emperor Ferdinand II to Cardinal Scipio Borghese, thanking him for his assistance in obtaining former favours from the Pope, and beseeching his intercession in order to obtain a pecuniary grant from His Holiness in lieu of troops, as of greater use, and more speedy service. He refers him to the Imperial Orator, Prince Albani. Dated Vienna, 9th May 1621. (Latin.) On paper, under the Emperor’s sign manual; countersigned by Hermannus Questenbergh, with the great seal.

[Cardinal Borghese was nephew to Pope Paul V and ‘Protector’ of the German nation.]

B. Four letters of Kings of Poland

7. From Sigismund III to Pope Clement VIII accrediting to him Jerome, Count of Rozdrazow, Bishop of Wladislaw, proceeding to Rome for the sake of his health, and who will confer with the Pope on certain affairs in the King’s name. Dated Warsaw, 16th March 1599. (Latin.) On vellum, under the King’s sign manual; with the great seal. Folio 10.

8. From the same to Pope Paul V, thanking him for his communication through his nuncio, to whom he refers his Holiness, for an account of their conference. Dated Warsaw 20th April 1618. (Latin.) On vellum, under the King’s sign manual; with the great seal. Folio 11.

9. From Vladislaus VI [Władysław IV Vasa], to the Cardinal San Giorgio (Pietro Maria Borghese), condoling with him on the death of Cardinal (Scipio) Borghese. Dated from the camp before Smolensko, 17 December 1633. (Italian.) On paper, under the King’s sign manual; with the great seal. Folio 12.

10. From the same to the Cardinal Borghese (Pietro Maria, Cardinal of St. George), announcing his marriage with the Archduchess Cecilia [Cecilia Renata of Austria], Sister of the Emperor (Ferdinand III). Dated Warsaw, 20 June 1637. (Italian.) Folio 14.

C. Letters of Cardinal Pietro Bembo. Those marked with an asterisk are autographs, the remainder have been corrected by him, and some have his signature. Those which have been printed in his works, are distinguished by having the volume and page noticed; the edition here referred to is that of Venice, 1729. Folio, 4 volumes. There are many variations from the printed text. The whole are in Italian.

11. To Madonna Lucrezia Borgia da Este, Duchess of Ferrara. Dated Venice, August 1 1504. [Opere, volume 3, page 311]. Folio 16.

12. To the Marchesa di Pescara [Vittoria Colonna]. Dated Padua, April 12 1531 [ibid, page 333]. Folio 18.

13. To Sra Veronica Gambara (di Corregio). Dated Padova, October 16 1531 [ibid, page 324]. Folio 20.

14. To Madonna Isabetta Massola. Dated Pad. [Padova] June 6 1537.[ibid, page 337]. Folio 21. [This letter is endorsed by the Cardinal as above, but in the printed copy it is addressed to Mad. Lisabetta Quirina. See the notes of A. F. Seghezzi volume ii, page 212]

15. To the Marchesa di Pescara. Dated Venice, April 6 1538 [ibid page 334]. Folio 22.

16. * To Mad. Isabetta Massola. Dated Venice, May 10 1538 [ibid, page 338 as Quirina]. Folio 23.

17. * To Mad. Veronica di Correggio. Dated Padova, October 26 1538. [ibid, page 325]. Folio 25.

18. * To Mad. Isabetta Quirina [Massola inserted and crossed out]. Dated Venice, January 8 1539 [ibid, page 338]. Folio 26.

19. * To the Marchesa di Pescara. Dated Venice, February 23 1539 [ibid, page 334]. Folio 28.

20. * To the Marchesa di Pescara. Dated Venice, March 15 1539 [ibid, page 335]. Folio 30.

21. * To the Marchesa di Pescara. Dated Venice, April 4 1539 [ibid,]. Folio 32.

22. * To Mad. Isabetta Quirina. Dated Padova, July 10 1539 [ibid, page 338]. Folio 34.

23. * To the same [a bad attempt at a facsimile of the preceding letter]. Folio 36.

24. * To Mad. Isabetta Quirina. Dated Padova, September 13 1539 [ibid, page 339]. Folio 37.

25. * To Mad. Arnesina Artusina degli Aleotti, at Forli. Dated Rome January 11 1540 [ibid, page 343]. Folio 38.

26. * To Mad. Constanza Fregosa di Lando, at Urbino. Dated Rome July 25 1541. [ibid, page 333]. Folio 40.

27. To Mad. Leonora, Duchessa di Urbino [Eleonora Gonzaga]. Dated Rome August 2 1541. [ibid, page 330]. Folio 42.

28. * To the Marchesa di Pescara, at Viterbo. Dated Rome, October 1 1541 [ibid, page 335]. Folio 44.

29. * To the Marchesa di Pescara. Dated Rome, November 18 1541. [ibid, page 336]. Folio 46.

30. * To the Duchessa di Urbino. Dated Rome, March 6 1542. [ibid, page 330]. Folio 48.

31. * To Helena Bemba [Bembo] his daughter. Dated Rome, June 10, 1542 [ibid, page 342]. Folio 50.

32. * To the same at the Monastery of S. Pietro in Padua strongly reproving her conduct. Dated Rome, May 1 1543. Folio 51.

33. * To the same, reproving her and her husband [Piero Gradenigo] for their expensive mode of living, at his cost. Dated Ugobbio, November 27 1543. Folio 53.

34. * To the same, reproving her in very strong terms for her disobedience and ingratitude, discarding her from his affection, and, declaring she should never again set her foot within his house, forbidding her to pass the Christmas, as she had intended, in his house at Padua [crossed out]. Dated Ugobbio, December 5 1543. Folio 55.

[Cardinal Bembo had shortly before married his daughter to Pietro Gradenigo, of the noble Venetian family of that name. (See Mazzuchelli)]

35. * Another copy of the sane; or rather, the rough draft of the former, with many corrections. Folio 57.

36. * To Mad. Veronica Gambara. Dated Ugobbio, December 17 1543. [Opere, volume iii, page 327]. Folio 58.

37. * To Mad. Helionora, Duchessa di Urbino. Dated Ugobbio, December 19 1543 [ibid, page 331]. Folio 59.

38. To Mad. Isabetta Quirina. Dated Ugobbio, February 7 1544. [ibid, page 340]. Folio 61.

39. * To Helena, his daughter, since by her letters she has humbly asked his pardon for her ingratitude, he consents to forgive her; [crossed out]. He has been moved thereto as much by the entreaties of M. Hiero. Quirino, Bernardin Bologno, and Mad. Isabetta, who deserve well of him, as by hers, who merits nothing at his hands. Dated Rome, Good Friday, April 11, 1544. Folio 63.

40. To Mad. Veronica di Gambara di Correggio. Dated Rome, Oct 14. 1544. [Opere, volume. iii. page 327]. Folio 65.

41. * To Mad. Isab. Quirina. [Rough draft of the letter at folio 76]. Folio 66. ‘Altre lettre giovenili et amorose scritte a diverse donne.’

42. To FF. Dated July 14, 1503. [Opere, volume. iii. page 375.] Folio 67.

43. To F.F. Dated July 18, 1503. [ibid,] Ibid,

44. To FF. [ibid,]. Folio 67b.

45. To FF. Dated October 5. 1503 [ibid, page. 376]. Folio 68.

46. To FF. Dated October 18. 1503 [ibid,]. Folio 69.

47. To FF. Dated Noniano, October 25. 1503 [ibid, page 377]. Folio 70.

48. To Mad. L. da S. Dated Venice; Holy Wednesday, 1540 [ibid,]. Folio 70b.

49. To M. B. [ibid, Number XC]. Folio 71.

50. To ---- Dated February 3. 1508 [ibid, Number LXXXIX]. Folio 72.

51. To Mad. N. Dated February 10. 1503 [ibid, page 387]. Folio 72b.

52. To Mad. B. Dated January 1. 1508 [ibid, page 380]. Folio 74b.

53. To La Sa Mad. Alessandra. Dated Urbino, June 10. 1509 [p. 379. Number XCIII]. Folio 75.

* 54. To Mad. Isab. Quirina [ibid, Number xcii]. Folio 76.

D. Letters of Kings and Queens of France, between the years 1560 and 1633.

55. From Catherine de Medici to [Philippe Babon] Bishop of Angoulesme, desiring he will request the Pope to restore Sig. Pietro Aldobrandini to the office of Advocate Fiscal, from which he was suspended, and that he will afford the latter all the assistance in his power. Dated Orleans, last day of November. 1560 (French). Under her sign manual. Folio 77.

56. From Henry III to the Pope (Sixtus V), recommending M. Nicolle Boucher for preferment to the Bishopric of Verdun, vacant by the death of Charles de Lorraine, Cardinal de Vaudemont. Dated at the Camp of Jergueau, 5 November 1587 (French). Under his sign manual. Folio 79.

57. From Henry IV to the Duke of Espernon; stating that he was convinced by the Prelates and Doctors of the Kingdom assembled in convocation, that the Catholic, apostolic and Roman Church was the true and infallible Church of God. He had therefore embraced it, resolved to live and die in its communion, and had this day heard and joined in the service of the Mass. Dated at St. Denys, Sunday, 25 July 1593 (French) under his sign manual. Folio 80. [A copy of this letter was sent to all the Parliaments of France. See P.V. Cayet, Chronologie Novenaire volume ii, folios 224-5].

58. From Henry IV to the Cardinal Tolleto (Toleto); thanking him for the part he had taken in bringing about a reconciliation with the Pope, and requesting a Continuation of his good offices; referring him to M. M. du Perron [Jacques Davy du Perron] and D'Ossat [Arnaud d'Ossat]. Dated at the Camp of Traviey near La Fere, 17 November 1595. (French). Under his sign manual. Folio 81.

59. An Italian translation of the preceding. Folio 82.

60. From Henry IV to the Cardinal St. Cesarée [Carolo Madruzio / Carlo Gaudenzio Madruzzo]; introducing to him the Cardinal de Givry [Anne d'Escard], the bearer of the letter. Dated Fontainebleau, 30 April 1604. (French). Under his sign manual. Folio 84.

61. From Henry IV to the Cardinal Borgese [Borghese]; requesting his good offices with the Pope [Paul V] in obtaining for the King's son [the Marquis, afterwards Duke de Verneuil [Henri du Bourbon]], the Bishopric of Mets [Metz]. Dated Paris 7 February (1608) (French). Autograph. Folio 85.

62. From the same to the same. Thanking him from his exertions, and requesting a continuance of his good offices with the Pope, in regard to the Bishopric. Dated Fontainebleau, 28 March [1608?] (French) Autograph. Folio 87.

63. From the same to the same. Thanking him for the assistance which he had afforded to the Bishop of Luson (Luçon), by whose brother, the Sr. de Rychelyeu, the King had been informed of it. Dated, Paris, 4 March, [blank] (French). Autograph. Folio 89.The Bishop of Luçon, here mentioned, was afterwards Cardinal Richelieu.

64. From the same to the Pope (Paul V) interceding for the Doge and Republic of Venice, and offering his mediation in the disputes between them and the Pope. Dated Paris, 20 June, 1606. (French). Under his sign manual, and seal. Folio 90.

65. From the same to the same; stating that, if he were of opinion that arms only could serve the Pope, in the dispute between him and Venice, his own should be added to the others already offered; but he hoped that negotiations would still be successful, and he had therefore determined to send the Cardinal de Joyense to Venice, to whom he requests the Pope will give full credence. Dated Paris, 1st February, 1607. (French). Under his sign manual. Folio 91.

66. An Italian translation of the preceding. Folio 92.

67. From the same to the same; congratulating the Pope on the accommodation of the differences with the Republic of Venice, effected by the King's mediation, through his minister, the Cardinal de Joyense. Dated Fontenebleau [Fontainebleau], 2 May, 1607. (French). Autograph. Sealed with two small signets. Folio 93.

68. From the same to the same; requesting that he would lay his positive commands upon Sister Antoynette D'Orleans, to assist her aunt, the Abbess of Fontevaut (Fontevreaud), who, being old, had selected her niece for that purpose; but for certain reasons the latter had declined. The Sr D'Alyncourt will more fully inform the Pope. Dated Fontenebleau, 15 June [1607]. Autograph, with two small signets. Folio 95.

69. From the same to the same; stating, that his aunt the Abbess of Frontevraut [sic], had chosen his cousin, Sister Antoynete d'Orleans, a Feylantyne (Feuillantine) nun to be her coadjutrix in her old age, with the right of succession to her office; but the appointment was delayed by certain considerations and formalities, of no moment when compared with the good which would accrue to the most important order of nuns in France; requesting therefore the Pope to annual all difficulties, by his positive commands. Dated Fontenebleau, 21 November [1607] (French). Autograph, with one small signet. Folio 97.

[Antoinette d'Orleans, widow of Charles de Gondi, Marquis of Belle Isle, was the daughter of Éléonore d'Orleans, Duke of Longueville, and Marie de Bourbon. See an account of these circumstances in Hélyot, Hist. des Ordres, Volume V. pages 416-17, and Volume VI, pages 100-101. The Abbess of Fontevraud was Eléonore de Bourbon, aunt to Henry IV]

70. From the same to the same; requesting that he would grant to ‘De La Varanne’ [Guillaume Fouquet], general of the Posts of France, an old and faithful servant of the King, the disposal of the abbey of St. Maysan, (which he had by the King's command taken out of the hands of a lay heretic, who has possessed it for more than 20 years), that he might give it to his son, who was in the Church. Dated Paris, 19 March [1608] (French). Autograph with two signets. Folio 99.

71. From the same to the same; stating that a reform was being instituted in the Order of St. Dominic, called the Frères Prêcheurs, and that it was proper for those Convents in which it obtained to be separated from the others, as was the case in reform in 1500, under Louis XII; when a vicar general was appointed for the reformed convents of the Congregation of France, and the Convent of St. Maximin in Provence was withdrawn from the jurisdiction of the Provincial, and incorporated with the Congregation; requesting therefore that a Vicar General may now be appointed for the newly reforming convents in Languedoc, and particularly for the convent of St. Maximin, a royal foundation, where the reformation was begun by Sebastian Michaelis, its Prior, whom the King strongly recommends to the Pope. Dated Fontainebleau, 22nd April 1608. (French). Under his sign manual. Folio 101. (For an account of this reform, and of Sebastian Michaelis, the founder of the Occitanian Congregation, the Hélyot, Hist. des Ordres. Volume. iii, pages 227-8).

72. From the same to the same; thanking him for his incomparable favours, and stating that he has ordered his ambassador the Sr. de Brèves [François Savary de Brèves], to make every assurance of his entire devotion to the Holy Apostolic See. Dated Fontenebleau, 26 May. [1608]. (French). Autograph, with two signets. Folio 102.

73. From the same to the same; earnestly requesting the Bishopric of Metz for his son; stating that he is impelled by a father's feelings to ask it, and that former Popes have granted similar favours to other Kings. As to any defect in his son's age, the prudence and experience of the Cardinal de Givry (Anne d'Escars, Cardinal de Givry) would supply all deficiencies. Dated Paris, 7th February (16--) (French). Autograph, with two signets. Folio 104. See letters 60, 61, and 62. Autograph.

[Anne D'Escars, Cardinal de Givry, was appointed Bishop of Metz, in 1608 and died 4 years afterwards (see Ciacconius, but according to Richard & Giraud (Evêchés de France), Henri de Bourbon, Marquis de Verneuil, was appointed also in 1608 (as coadjutor?) but the Pope would not grant the Bulls till 1621 when he attained the age of 21. He vacated the Bishopric in 1641].

74. From Marie De' Medici, to the Cardinal Borguese (Borghese), seconding an application made by the King, for the preferment of the Abbot of Marmottier (Marmoutier), to the Dignity of Cardinal. Dated Paris, 24th August 1610. (Italian). Autograph, with her signet. [Crossed out]. Folio 106.

75. From the same to the Pope (Paul V); accrediting the Cardinal Ubaldini to him, in a certain grace and favour to be asked in her name, and not mentioned in the dispatches, of which the Cardinal was the bearer. Dated Paris, 17 December. 1616. (French). Autograph, with two small signets. Folio 108.

76. From the same to the same; enforcing an application made by the King, her son, in favour of the Abbot of Marmontier, appointed Archbishop of Tours, for his preferment to the dignity of Cardinal, which the Queen mother seconds, by reason of the singular affection she bears to the Maréchale d'Aucre, his sister. Dated Paris, 23 December. 1616. (French). Under her sign manual. Folio 110.Sebastian Galigai took the oath of fidelity to Louis XIII for the Archbishopric of Tours, 9th March 1617 and resigned the same year (Richard + Giraud. Evéches de France). The income of the Abbey of Marmontier was attached to that see (Richard & Giraud Dict. Théol.). He was brother to Eleonore Dori dito Galiani, wife to Concino Concini, the Maréchal d'Ancre who, with his wife, so long governed Marie de Medici. See article 74, above.

76 [repeated number]. From the same to the Cardinal Bourgheze informing him she had quitted Blois only to benefit the public, and obtain liberty. The King, her son, had granted her such as she desired, and had deferred to another time receiving her advice for the prosperity of his affairs. He has now learned that arms were unnecessary against her innocence, and had discarded them, and given peace to his subjects. To her he has promised the protection and friendship she was entitled to expect from his good disposition, and on which she relies. She requests the Cardinal will inform the Holy Father of her sincerity, etc. Dated Angoulesme, May 1619. (French). Under her sign manual, and signet. Folio 112.

77. From Louis XIII to the Cardinal Borghese; stating that he had heard from Sr. Scappi the Cardinal's communication to him, and had done what seemed to be necessary, as the Cardinal would hear from the Sr. de Marillac, appointed ambassador to Rome, in the place of the Marquis de Trenel. Dated Paris, 31 January 1617. (French). Under his sign manual, countersigned ‘De Richelieu’. Folio 113.

78. From Anne of Austria, Queen of France, to the Cardinal Borghese, thanking him for his congratulations on the marriage of her sister (the arch-duchess) Christiana, with the Prince of Piedmont. Dated Paris, 14th March, 1619 (French). Under her sign manual. Folio 114.

79. From Louis XIII to the Pope (Paul V); requesting that, at the forthcoming promotion, the Archbishop of Toulouse and the Bishop of Luçon might be raised to the dignity of Cardinal, and stating that he had sent the Sr de Cochere, the Queen's Almoner, to enforce his request. Dated Tours, 29 August 1620. (French). Autograph, with his signets. Folio 115.(Louis di Nogarets de la Valete, son of the Duke of Epernon, and Archbishop of Toulouse, was made Cardinal on January 11 1621, a few days before Paul V's death. The Bishop of Luçon (Cardinal Richelieu) was raised to that dignity by Gregory XV, September 5 1622).

80. From the same to the same; repeating his request, at the instance of the Queen Mother. Dated Juilly, December 4 1620. (French). Autograph with two seals. Folio 117.

81. From the same to the Cardinal Borghese; earnestly intreating his influence with the Pope, in favour of the two above name ecclesiastics. Dated Juilly. December 4 1620. (French). Autograph, with two seals. Folio 119.

82. From the same to the Pope (Gregory XV or Urban VIII); expressing his displeasure at what the nuncio had told him, and at the subject of the brief presented to him from the Pope, who, he hopes will be satisfied with the measures taken. Without date. (French). Autograph, with his signets. Folio 121.

83. From the same to the same; repeating his displeasure and complaining of some offence committed, which so nearly concerns himself, that for the honour of his name and dignity, he is obliged to require public reparation. Without data. (French). Autograph, with his signets. Folio 123.

84. From the same to Cardinal Borghese; stating that he had sent the Marichal Duke de Crequi as his ambassador extraordinary to Rome. Dated St. Germain en Laye, January 31 1633. (French). Under his sign manual. Folio 125.

E. Letters of Charles de Lorraine, Duke de Mayenne, during the years 1592-1595.

85. To the Pope (Clement VIII); requesting that the Abbey of Nôtre Dame de Bonpart, vacant by the death of M. François de Bolliers, Bishop of Frejus, may be given to M. Philippe Desportes, who has been greatly instrumental in preserving the city of Rouen to ‘the Holy Cause’. Dated Rouen, 20 May, 1592. (French). With the seal attached. Folio 126.

86. To the same, accrediting the bearer, the Secretary of the Commander of Dion, instructed to inform his Holiness of the state of affairs, until the arrival of the Bishop of Lisieux, proceeding to Rome as envoy from the Duke. Dated Amiens, 8th August, 1592. (French). With his seal attached. Folio 127.(This letter is indorsed ‘A Pietro’, apparently in the Pope's hand, to his nephew Cardinal ‘Pietro’ Aldobrandini.)

87. To Mons. Scinthio (Cinthio) Aldobrandini; nephew to the Pope, stating that he had sent the Bishop of Lisieux to Rome in his own name and that of all the good Catholics of France, to carry their obedience to the Pope, on whose accession he congratulates him, and requests his assistance to the Bishop's mission. Dated Amyens [Amiens?] 12 August 1592. (French). With two small seals. Folio 128.

88. To Don Pietro Aldobrandini, governor of the Castle of St. Angelo, congratulating him on the Pope's accession and requesting his favourable countenance to the Bishop of Lisieux. Dated Amyens, 12 August, 1592. (French). With two small seals. Folio 130.[Cinthio and Pietro Aldobrandini were both nephews of Clement VIII and created Cardinals in October 1593. The latter was son to Pietro Aldobrandini, mentioned in D. 1. above]

89. To the Pope (Clement VIII); declaratory of his designs in assembling the States, appointed for the 17th inst. viz. to enquire the best means of possessing religion and the state, and to exhort all Catholics, who favoured the heretics, to leave them and join the league. The Bishop of Lisieux and the Commander of Dion will inform his Holiness of all particulars. Dated Paris, 11 January 1593. (French). Folio 132.

90. To the same; describing the deplorable state of France ‘le theatre des malheurs du Monde’ and stating, he has had recourse to an expedient always made use of when the Kingdom was convulsed with intestine disorders - the assembling of the States, who were convoked for the last month, but, owing to the dangers existing, many of the deputies were not arrived. He requests the Pope's favour to M. M. de Lisieux et de Dion. Dated Soissons, 28 February 1593. (French). With two small seals. Folio 133.

91. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 135.

92. To the same; stating, that, immediately upon the capture of Noyon, he had sent a messenger to Rome with despatches, who was taken prisoner by the enemy; but he sends with this a copy of them. Had the King of Navarre advanced to the succour of Noyon, himself and Count Charles were resolved to have terminated their misfortune, by the chance of a battle. He regrets extremely the loss of Sr. Appio Conty, killed by the Sr. de Chasteaubrehain [Viz. Cayet, Chronol. Nov. volume. ii. page 132] and has instructed M. M. de Lisieux and de Dion to offer every satisfaction to his Holiness, and entreats him not to believe any reports he may hear. He remonstrates strongly on the dismissal of the Pope's troops by Monsr. Malvasio, his commissioner [Viz. Etoile, Journal de Henri IV volume. i., page 318], and fears the ruin of the cause. The commissioner too refuses to acknowledge his authority and declares he will obey Count Charles alone. The Duke then earnestly intreats the Pope for further succours, or they will be obliged to make terms with the enemy. Dated Reins, 19 April 1593. (French). Folio 137.

93. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 139.

94. To the same; acknowledging the receipt of his Holiness's communication through the Sr. Desportes; there are now with him M. M. de Lorraine, De Guise, the Count of Chaligny, M. d'Aumalle and M. d'Elbeuf; the last still on parole. He has been glad to hear an account of the negotiations of M. M. Desportes and Lisieux with his Holiness. Affairs are constantly varying, but the same conduct must still be pursued towards ‘that viper’ [Henri IV]. The Sr. Desportes had conveyed to him a multitude of fine expressions and promises; he hopes in conformity to his Holiness' orders, but deeds alone were now wanted, their necessity was so great. The people were in great distress, and he feared a want of unanimity in the States; the Princes also were discontented by the report, that his Holiness would recognise the King of Navarre, if he became Catholic, and that the Sr. de Gondy was intriguing to that end, and they had hesitated to join him, but finding that he was firm, they had at last done so, and were all resolved never to acknowledge the King of Navarre. He was convinced however, if his Holiness should withdraw from the cause, of being but poorly seconded in his resolve, from which he never would swerve. Dated Reins, 3rd May 1593. (French). Folio 143.

95. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 145.

96. To the same; expressing how much he desired that all his acts should be approved by the Pope, wherefore he had sent a confidential person of quality to inform him of the proceedings of the States, and of the reasons which had obliged them to delay their resolutions, till they should receive his Holiness's commands. He entreats him to suspend his judgement until he is made fully acquainted with the state of affairs. He then mentions the truce agreed upon for three months, and hopes that time of leisure will be employed in devising proper measures for the preservation of Religion and the State. Dated Paris, 6 August 1593. (French). Autograph. Folio 147.

97. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 149.

98. To the same; stating that he had despatched this by a courier, who would also convey to his Holiness the Treaty of the Truce, the oath taken at a full meeting of the states and the reception of the Council of Trent. The first of these he feared would not be so acceptable to the Pope as the others, but he had written to the Commander of Dion, to explain matters, till he could send a person of quality, who should more fully inform his Holiness and, he hoped, to his satisfaction. Dated Paris, 18 August 1593. (Autograph). [viz. Cayet Chronol. Nov. volume. ii. pages 422-3]. Folio 151.

99. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 153.

100. To M. Cintio Aldobrandini; stating that he had despatched this by an express, who carried instructions to the Commander of Dion, to explain to his Holiness the reasons which had forced them (the Princes) to conclude the treaty of truce without regard, as at first sight it would appear to the oath they had taken as solemnly. But he hoped the Pope would also consider the other oath they had taken for the preservation and defence of Religion and the observance of the decrees of the Church, and lately confirmed by the publication of the Council of Trent. He earnestly prays that M. Cintio would afford them to his powerful assistance, and also to the Commander of Dion, acting for them. Dated Paris, 18 August 1593. (French). Folio 155.

101. To the Pope; regretting that he had been prevented by various circumstances from sending some confidential person to his Holiness, he hoped now to despatch them in the course of a week or fortnight, and begs he would not be offended at the delay. As their journey would occupy not less than three or four months, and he did not wish to act, while uninformed of his Holiness' opinions, he thought it right to extend the truce for so long, if the enemy would consent; and on this point he had conferred with the Legato, and the Duke de Feria. He earnestly beseeches his Holiness to suspend his judgment, till fully informed of all the motives which have guided him. Dated Paris, 27 September 1593. (French). Autograph. Folio 157.

102. To the same; requesting that his Holiness would promote the Archbishop of Lyons [Peter d'Espinac] to the Dignity of Cardinal, which had been promised to him by former Popes. He requests his Holiness will listen also to what the Cardinal de Joyeuse will urge on his behalf. Dated Paris, 12 October 1593. (French). Folio 159.

[Peter D'Espinac had obtained a promise from Henry III that he would ask a Cardinal's hat for him, but this Prince not fulfilling his promise, the Archbishop embraced the course of the League, of which he remained a firm partizan, till his death in January 1599. The Duke's application in his favour was also unsuccessful. See Richard & Girand, Evêchés de France and also Etoile, Journal de Henri IV volume. 11, pages 437-38].

103. To the same; accrediting to him the Cardinal de Joyeuse, and the Baron de Senecé, proceeding as his envoys to Rome. Dated Paris, 13 October 1593. (French). Folio 161. (see P.V. Cayet Chronol. Nov. volume 3. page 316b]

104. To the same; acknowledging the receipt of this Holiness' brief, and expressing his extreme grief at the many misrepresentations made of his conduct, especially at what the Pope had written touching the imprisonment of his brother, the Duke of Nemours, whom he acquits of any design against the liberties of the inhabitants of Lyons, but wonders he had not taken precautions to prevent the indiscretion of his servants, from whose conduct the opinion had arisen. This affair had caused him great anxiety, and he hoped to proceed to Lyons to prevent the danger that might otherwise accrue to the Catholic cause. Dated Paris, 6th December 1593. (French). Folio 163.

105. To the same; announcing the loss of Paris, of which the unexpected news reached him when about to join the troops his Catholic Majesty had sent to his succour. It happened through the treachery of the Count de Brissac, in whom he, as also the Legato, the Spanish Ministers, and the principal persons of the City, had placed the greatest confidence. He most earnestly entreats the Pope's assistance, and assures him he will spill the last drop of his blood in the cause, and prefer an honourable tomb to any accommodation, but that his ruin would be followed by the total subversion of religion in France. Dated Laon, 28 March 1594. (French). Folio 164.

106. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 166.

107. To the same; stating that he had long foreseen the misfortunes which had befallen the holy league, and had forewarned those who had it in their power to have prevented them. His own conscience was clear. He begs to hear from the Pop some intimation of his wishes for his conduct, under present circumstances. M. Malvasio will inform his Holiness of the Object of his present journey, to consult with the Archduke, and the Spanish Ministers. Dated Bruxelles, 3 June, 1594. (French). Folio 168.

108. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 170.

109. To the same; requesting that he would prevent the chevalier Breton, to whom the Pope had granted the commandery of St. Lament in Piedmont, from being disturbed in the enjoyment of his benefice by a certain Knight, who laid claim to it. Dated Bruxelles, 12 October 1594. (French). Folio 172.

110. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 174.

111. To the same, recapitulating his complaints, and stating that he had a plan to propose, which would remedy all their misfortunes, if the Pope would persuade his Catholic Majesty to join in it. He had despatched the sr. Vincent, Secretary to the late Commander of Dion, with it to the Cardinal de Joyeuse, who would communicate all the particulars to his Holiness. Dated Dijon, 9 November 1594. (French). Folio 176.

112. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 178.

113. To the Cardinal San Giorgio (Cinthio Aldobrandini); requesting his good offices with the Pope, in the present perilous state of affairs. Dated Dijon, 9 November 1594. (French). Folio 180.

114. To Cardinal (Pietro) Aldobrandini; requesting his good offices with the Pope etc. Dated Dijon, 9 November 1594. (French). Folio 182.

115. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 184.

116. To the Pope (Clement VIII); stating that he had not of late written to his Holiness, on account of the dissatisfaction at his conduct, which the latter had expressed, and also of his unwillingness to depart from the respect due to him by complaining; but he had never ceased to instruct the Cardinal de Joyeuse and the Bishop of Evreux to render a full account of all his actions and motives, which, from the beginning of the war, he had always submitted to the judgment of the Holy See. He had the misfortune to near the blame of every body's faults; and all, that the inadequate assistance he received, the imprudent conduct of some of his Catholic Majesty's ministers, and the treachery of many Frenchmen, had contributed towards the ruin of the holy league, was imputed to him alone by those who judged superficially and considered nothing but that he was the head. It was impossible, but that he should have committed some error; he would however venture to say, and with truth, that had his advice been followed, or rather if he had preferred his own judgment, and not submitted to the authority of others, religion would not have been brought into the danger, nor affairs into the confusion, in which they were. He had to struggle with divisions within, and crosses without, and the arms and councils which should have ruined the King of Navarre, had established him. His Holiness might remember the advice the Duke gave during the last truce, either to have peace or war; His Holiness at that time did not approve of the first, nor did the Cardinal di Piacenza, his legato, and the report, that he (the Duke) did, expose him to a thousand calumnies and the Spaniards were never afterwards satisfied. The success of the King of Navarre might render his fortune better, but not his cause more first, and many things shewed that his Holiness ought to mistrust him more than ever; yet was about to give him absolution, and had given notice thereof in full consistory, without even informing the Duke, or expressing a wish to make terms for him and the other Catholic Lords and Princes, who, under His Holiness' authority had perilled their own lives and those of their children, in the cause. Of the dangers they had incurred, he (the Duke) was far from complaining, on the contrary, he thanked God, he had persevered to the end, and, on the same authority by which he took up arms, he laid them down, that of the Holy See; for as soon as he heard of His Holiness' declaration, he ordered his deputies at Lyons not to be stopped by difficulties, so that his peace was, in a manner already made. Had he, during the war entertained any ambitious projects, he had had but too many means of attaining his ends, and it was notorious what advantages he had rejected for the sake of the cause he had undertaken, at the express command of the Holy See. But as his ambition had no other end than the defence of religion, so he looked for no reward but that of his conscience. He entreats his Holiness to believe his submission to his commands, and to provide for the state of religion in the Kingdom, which the state of his own affairs prevents his doing as he could wish in the treaty he was about to conclude; still he was firm respecting the edict of (15)77. He was about to despatch one of his people to inform His Holiness more fully of all his intentions. Dated Chalons, 25 September 1595. (French). Folio 186.

117. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 187. [The letter is endorsed ‘A Mons Canobio, per tradurla’.]

F. Letters endorsed to the Popes or their ministers by distinguished persons in France, between the years 1591 and 1624. The whole are original.

118. From the Duke of Montmorency (Henry, third Duke, first of the name) to the Pope (Gregory XIV), complaining of the infraction of a truce, in the capture of the Marquis d’Oraison by Count Maron, the Papal General, at Avignon in the Venaissin. Dated Pezenas, 5 August 1591. (French). Folio 189.

119. From the same to the same; in which as ‘first Christian Baron of the Kingdom’, he reminds his Holiness of the services of his family to the Catholic, Apostolic, and Roman religion, and to the Holy See, and earnestly conjures him to withdraw the monitory Bull, indicating the exercise of all religion, for fear of the consequences; amongst which he thinks it likely to drive many into the pale of the Reformed Church. He also entreats the Pope to consider the effects produced by severity in England, Scotland, Denmark, part of Germany and Switzerland. Dated Pezenas, 22 August, 1591. (French). Folio 190.

120. From the same to the Pope (Clement VIII); stating that their hopes of tranquillity rested entirely upon his Holiness, and that the Princes of the blood, Dukes, Officers of the Crown, Prelates, and principal Catholic Lords of the Kingdom, in obedience to the King, had despatched to him the Marquis de Pizany, to inform his assistance in the pacification of the kingdom, but the Duke was sorry his absence had prevented his adding his signature to theirs. He had now however sent his maitre d’hotel, Silvano Justiniano, to the Marquis, not with his procuration alone, but also those of the Count d’Auvergne, his son in law, the Duke of Ventadour, of Espernon, the Snr Alphonse d’Ornano, de la Guiche, de Stastignac, de Chaniron and de Chattes, who had the Command of Angouleme, Dauphinê, Provence, Limosin, Auvergne, Borbonois, Velay, and other provinces, forming a great part of the Kingdom; wherefore he hopes the Pope will have

regard to their petition and restore peace to the Kingdom. Dated Beaucaire, 18 January, 1593. (French). Folio 191.

121. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 192.

122. From the same to the same; stating that in his despatch of the 5th July, he had informed his Holiness of the King’s resolve to enter the pale of the Catholic Apostolic Roman Church, who had on the 25th July heard mass at St. Denis, and declared he would live and die in its communion. He expresses his joy at this event, and he hopes that the Pope will receive the King into the Church, and, by commanding all those in opposition to him to lay down their arms, restore peace to France. Dated Baignolz, 11 August 1593. (French). Folio 194.

123. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 195.

124. From the same to the same; stating that before leaving that part of the country to join the King, who had commanded his attendance, he had called on Cardinal Acquaviva, Legate at Avignon, to make a tender of any services he could render. He commends the Cardinal to the Pope and refers to him for an account of what passed at their meeting. He renews his assurances of devotion to the Holy See, and requests the Pope will honour him with his commands, and continue his favour to the French people. Dated Pont St. Esprit, 30 August 1594. (French). Folio 197.

125. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 198.

126. From (Henry, second of the name Duke of) Montmorency, to the Cardinal Borghese; requesting him to obtain from the Pope the bulls for the abbey of Belle Perche, in the diocese of Montauban, which had been vacated, in favour of one of the sons of Monsr de Caminade, President of the Parliament of Bezières. Dated Bezières, 30 November 1618. (French). Folio 200.

127. From Lodovico Gonzaga (Duke of Mevers), to the Pope (Clement VIII); entreating him in the strongest terms to admit the Cardinal de Gondi and the Marquis de Pisani to an audience, particularly the latter, who was sent to him on the part of the Catholic Princes, Prelates, and nobility of France, who were in obedience to the King. He begs the Pope will allow the Marquis to explain their state to him [crossed out]. Dated Chartres, 30 November 1592. (Italian). Folio 202.

128. From the same to the same; at great length; in continuation of a report on the real state of affairs in France, which he had sent to the Pope, who, through Cardinal Aldobrandini, had expressed a wish that he should continue it, on his arrival at his government of Champagne, he went to Lengres, which he brought into obedience to the King, the inhabitants being assured of his conversion, and knowing also that the Pope has refused his benediction to him, and refused to receive that Duke as his ambassador in order to please the Spaniards, whose connexion with his Holiness they had discovered. He had also brought over Bassigni and indeed all Champagne beyond the Marne. From thence he went to Chalons, where he heard M. de Guise had slain St. Pol. He then went to his Duchy of Rethelois to recover Rethel, its chief fortress. He then gives a journal of his proceedings and of the state of affairs during the latter part of May and part of June. At the end he strongly enforces on the Pope the policy of recognizing the King, for which the Spaniards and the Leaguers (the latter of whom were striving for peace daily) could not now blame him, as when the Duke was pretended, and huis subjects unwilling to acknowledge him. Dated from the Camp beneath Laon, June, … 1594. (Italian). Folio 204.

129. From the same to Cardinal Aldobrandini; acknowledging the receipt of two letters from him, and that he had sent a duplicate of his last through Cardinal Sega; he hopes that the Pope will now be better informed of the state of affairs in France, than he had been hitherto. Dated 15 July 1594. (Italian). Folio 208.

130. From the same to the Pope (Clement VIII); in continuation of his last (article 128 ante) giving full particulars of all that had taken place. He describes his abject in writing to be, to afford his Holiness such information on the state of France, as to enable him to decide quickly on the conduct to be pursued; for delay would bring no good with it. At the end is an autograph postscript, stating he has enclosed a letter of M. de Guise, given to him by the King, and the copy of a letter of the Viscount de Tavane (Tavannes), by which his Holiness would see their purpose. Dated from the camp beneath Laon, 24 July, 1594. (Italian). Folio 210.

131. From the same to the same; thanking him for the brief which he had received, stating he was pleased to find his Holiness approved the letters he had sent, in obedience to his commands, given at the Duke’s departure from Rome, and to have a wish expressed for their continuance; but with all due reverence, he must say that the same doubt impressed on the mind of his Holiness had been renewed by the intents and actions of the Spaniards, and had caused the detention of M. du Perrow, as would be explained by M. d’Ossat, on the part of the King; to whom he refers his Holiness: saying only, that affairs remained in the same state as when he wrote in August to M. Dalbene, to inform how necessary for the welfare of the Catholic religion it was, that a reconciliation should take place; which he takes this opportunity of repeating. Dated St. Germains, 10 December 1594. (Italian). Folio 214.

132. From the same to Cardinal Aldobrandini; thanking him for two letters. He is grieved at the suspicions which have entered into his Majesty’s mind, and which the Cardinal will learn from the tenor of M. d’Osat’s [d’Ossat] commission. The delay of any reconciliation between the King and the Holy See had brought all Ecclesiastical discipline to such ruin, that, if continued much longer, it would be difficult to restore it, and while divisions lasted ‘that cruel and faithless serpent’ (‘quel Serpente crudele et infidele’. [cataloguer note: The Turk? see no. 135] was making great inroads upon unhappy Christendom. He beseeches the Cardinal to use his influence with the Pope towards effecting a peace. Dated St. Germain en Laye, 10 November 1594. (Italian). Folio 216.

133. From the same to the Pope (Clement VIII); stating he was weary of his life though this misfortunes which oppressed Christendom, and which might be allayed, were the affairs of France reduced to order. The longer reconciliation was delayed between the King and his Holiness, affairs would go from bad to worse, and he hoped they might not go so far as to be irretrievable. Cardinal Gondi had proposed some necessary preliminaries, but the Duke entreats his Holiness not to wait to settle these, for if a reconciliation should not take place, prior to the Convocation of the Clergy in March, they might come to some fatal resolution in which probably the Parliament would second them. An autograph postscript states, that the Sr. Alessro [Alessandro] Delbene would inform his Holiness more particularly, and requests he wold give full credence to him. Dated Paris, 9 December 1594. (Italian). Folio 218.

134. Extract from a letter written 9 December from Paris by the Duke de Nevers to the Sr. Alessro. del Bene, and endorsed by the latter, as agent for the Duke, to Cardinal Aldobrandini; containing a summary of the reasons which should induce the Pope to give the king immediate absolution. Not dated. (Italian). Folio 220.

135. From the same to Cardinal Aldobrandini; apologising for not having sooner answered his letter of the 14th and earnestly beseeching him to hasten a reconciliation between the King and the Pope, for without it sufficient defence could not be made against the threatened attacks of the Turk. It was dreadful, that the disunion of Christian Princes should this augment the power of the Infidel, under which the greatest part of Europe would succumb, and the name of our Saviour be abolished there, if the Pope did not provide for such necessity, by granting this reconciliation without delay. He requests the Cardinal will do all in his power to further the objects of Monsr. di Arone's mission, on his arrival. Dated Paris, 28 February 1595. (Italian). Folio 222.

136. From the same to the Pope (Clement VIII); informing him, that Monsr. Du Perone had at last departed for Rome. He thanks his Holiness for his two briefs, and also for the letters from Cardinal Aldobrandini, which he received, and from which he cannot but take encouragement, that the reconciliation will be granted. He does not repeat his arguments in favour of it, trusting the Pope was already well acquainted with them, through the Sr. Aless. Delbene, and also by means of Cardinals Gondi and Acquaviva, but on his knees he requests as a boon, that it might be granted without delay. With regard to the Jesuits, he assures his Holiness their expulsion was caused only by the ‘misdeed’ of ‘that unhappy young man [Jacques Clement] against the King’; they would, but for that, have remained for ever in the Kingdom. Those of his own College of Nevers deferred their departure three months, in the hope of some mitigating of the decree, but the Parliament at last forced them to go. They had been very useful against the Heretics, and so were necessary, but it was necessary they should moderate their love of intermeddling in temporal affairs. In Italy and Germany it was notorious the desire they had of temporal authority, but if they could divest themselves of this curiosity, they might be of the greatest use to the Catholic faith. Dated Paris, 19 May 1595. (Italian). Folio 224.

137. Duplicate of the same letter; with a postscript in the Dukes own hand, stating he had detained his letter till the departure of M. du Perone, who delayed setting out till the roads were considered safe. M. du Perone would inform his Holiness of the great progress made in the conversion of the Heretics, chiefly through his own means. Same date. (Italian). Folio 226. [This letter is indorsed, apparently in the Pope's hand, ‘Al C. Aldobr..’]

138. From the same to Cardinal Aldobrandini, apologising for not having sooner answered his letters, owing to the delays in Monsr. du Perrone's departure, and to his inability to execute the wishes of his Holiness, in favour of the Jesuits. They were shipwrecked, so to say, in part, for their affairs were established. If he could have helped them, he would but the decree of the Parliament followed the attempt of ‘that wicked young man’ against the King's life, and the populace believed the whole society guilty. A general curse attended them; the Parliament of Rouen, though attached to the League, had also expelled them; and this Parliament had a separate jurisdiction, over which that of Paris had no power. There, and similar circumstances, rendered it useless for him to attempt to interfere. He then earnestly entreats the Cardinals' influence with the Pope, in favour of a reconciliation between him and the King. Dated 19 May, 1595. A postscript in the Dukes own hand notices that the letter was detained, till the 2nd June, when the Sr. du Perone departed. (Italian). Folio 229.

139. Duplicate of the preceding letter. Folio 231.

140. From the same to the Pope (Clement VIII); stating, that although he was connected by blood with Monseigneur de Guise, and his brothers, yet as they were now in obedience to the King, they wished for a new bond of union, by means of a double marriage. As the parties were cousins, the dispensation of his Holiness was necessary, which he entreats him to grant, and also to listen favourably to the representations which the Sr. Alessro. Dalbene would make on the subject. Dated Paris, 19 May 1595. (Italian). Folio 233.

141. From the same to Cardinal Aldobrandini; stating he had written to the Pope, to request a dispensation from the marriage of his daughters to the brothers of Monsr. de Guise, as would be explained by Sr. Alessro. Dalbene, and beseeching the Cardinal's influence in favour of his petition. Dated Paris, 19 May, 1595. (Italian). With his seal. Folio 235.

142. From the same to the very Reverend Father Anto. [Antonio] Possevino, at Rome; stating that on his arrival, Monsr. Dalbene had informed him, his lodgings could not be made ready till Sunday, and if he arrived sooner, he would find everything in confusion, wherefore he was resolved to go tomorrow to Castel Nuovo, to dinner, and remain there all the day, and so arrive at Rome on Sunday, according to the wish of Holiness. If it should be necessary for him to proceed to Rome tomorrow, he desires Father Possevin[o] will write to him at Castel novo [sic] in time for him to continue his journey, and arrive at the proper hour. Dated Rignano, Friday evening [19 November 1593]. Autograph (Italian). Folio 237. [See the Memoirs du Duc de Nevers, par Gomberville, folio, volume. ii, page 252. None of these letters are printed in the former work.]

143. From Jean Louis de la Vallete [first Duke d'Espernon] to the Pope [Clement VIII]; accrediting to him the Bishop of Mirepoys, on a special mission. Dated 26 March 1593. Autograph. (French). With his seal. Folio 238.

144. From the same to the same; expressing his entire devotion to the Catholic Religion, and the authority of the Holy See, and accrediting to him his Secretary, who will give him information respecting the state of the affairs in the province. Dated Brignole, 9 August, 1594. (French). Folio 240.

145. From the same to Cardinal Aldobrandini; stating the weight of his affairs had presented his writing to the Cardinal for the last ten months, but he now sent his Secretary, who would inform him of the state of affairs in the province. He expresses his entire devotion to the Holy See, and his readiness to obey whatever the Pope may command for the welfare and preservation of the Catholic, Apostolic, Roman Religion, and his own Authority. Dated Brignole, 9 August 1594. (French). Folio 242.

146. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 244.

147. From the same to the Pope [Clement VIII]; stating that his Holiness would have heard from the Cardinal de Joyeuse, of the Duke's intention of sending a gentleman to inform him of the state of affairs, but deferred for several reasons and partly for the want of any important intelligence. He now accredits to the Pope the Sr. de Genibras, on his own part, and that of several gentlemen, his friends. Dated St. Maximin, 19 June, 1595. (French). Folio 246.

148. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 248.

149. From the same to cardinal Aldobrandini; begging his interest with the Pope, in support of what would be requested on his behalf by the Sr. de Genibras. Dated St. Maximin, 19 June 1595. (French). Folio 250.

150. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 252.

151. From the same to Cardinal Borghese; stating that the King had appointed his son Archbishop of Toulouse, and recommended him to the Pope for the dignity of Cardinal, at the next election. He pleads his own service, and those of his ancestors in cause of the Holy See, and hopes that the fault and disobedience of one son [the Duke de Candale], may not prejudice the advancement of one who was innocent. He entreats the Pope to bestow the dignity upon his son, and not suffer the Duke's chief enemies, the heretics of France, to suppose him in such bad favour at the Court of Rome, as to be refused a request which the King his master had made for him. Dated Rouen, 26 December 1617. (French). Folio 254.[See a letter of Louis XIII, number 79.]

152. From the same to Cardinal Aldobrandini; accrediting to him Father Arcange, who will inform the Cardinal of the conferences he has had with the Duke. Without date. (French). Autograph. Folio 256.

153. From Charles de Lorraine, Duke of Guise, to the Pope [Clement VIII]; stating that the imminent danger of religion justified the extreme measures taken by the Pope for the extermination of the heretics, and their chief [Henry IV], who had filled this flourishing monarchy with all the misery and devastation under which it suffered. But the indignation of all should be still more excited by the damnable proceedings, which he [Henry IV] had taken against the dignity and authority of the Holy See, and the insolent processes and decrees vomited by his ministers, assembled in a pretended court of Parliament at Chalons, against the Cardinal Piacenza [Cardinal Sega], his Holiness' legate in France; this having taken place in the Duke's own government, he was more particularly irritated at the contempt thrown upon his Holiness' sacred bulls, by a decree issued at Chalons [Viz. Cayet, Chronol. Nov. volume. ii. pages 92-3] of which he thought it right to enclose a copy. The Duke trusts, that at the general assembly of the States, to be convoked under the sanction of the Pope, proper measures will be taken to proceed against the heretics by arms, and otherwise, and that by the election of a truly Catholic King, the Catholic, Apostolic, and Roman Religion will be securely established, and the peace of the Kingdom be restored. Dated Reins, 2 December 1592. (French). Folio 258.

154. From the same to the Abbé Aldobrandini; giving a detailed account of his proceedings [during January and February] in Berry and before Orleans, and against the Duke de Nevers. He regrets to state, that a spirit of neutrality pervades Orleans and Berry, and he fears that Poitiers will observe the same, thus opening a way for the Heretics into Guienne [Guyenne], unless strong measures are taken to guard against such fatal consequences. He, the Duke, is not supported, and the Duke of Mayne, his uncle, is necessarily occupied by the affairs of Paris. Dated Sens, 7 March 1593. (French). Folio 260.

155. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 261.

156. From the same to the same; giving an account of his operations, jointly with the Maréchal de St. Paul, against the Duke of Nevers who had assembled troops to oppose him at the river of Gonne. Previous to this, he had distributed part of his troops in garrison, having heard of the capitulation of Noyon to his uncle [the Duke of Mayenne], and was preparing to set out for the assembly of the States at Paris, which he still hoped to join, as soon as tranquillity should be restored in the province, by the retreat of the Duke de Nevers. Dated Troyes, 16 April 1593. (French). Folio 265.

157. From the same to the Pope [Clement VIII]; expressing his devotion to the Holy See, and his ready and constant obedience to his Holiness' commands, which he trusts the Legate will confirm. Dated Paris, 25 September [1593]. Autograph. (French). Folio 267.

158. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 269.

159. From the same to the same; stating the long resistance made to his authority by the late Sr. de St. Pol, who treated him with a contempt and presumption, which he had hitherto borne, and tried to obviate, but at last the Sr. de St. Pol had so outraged him by words and by drawing his sword upon him, that for the preservation of his honour and life, he was obliged to have recourse to the most violent remedy, as the Abbé d'Orbais would inform his Holiness. For this he humbly requests pardon from the Pope, and also his Holiness' absolution and benediction. Dated Reins, 27 April 1594. (French). Folio 271.[Viz. Etoile, Journal de Henri IV volume. ii, pages 58-63]

160. From the same to [blank]; complaining of not having heard from him for two months, and of receiving no answer to his last six letters, which makes him fear he has given offence; and he wishes to remind his correspondent to send someone to be a witness of passing affairs. He assures him of one thing, that he will never separate himself from his friends. The Duke will not conceal that at the return of the Sr. de la Rochette, whom at the advice of M. du Mayne [Duke de Mayenne], he had sent to Paris, to ascertain the King's mind with regard to entering into treaty, M. du Mayne was no longer with him, but he (the Duke) had written to him, as also to his present correspondent, to communicate to them the Sr. de la Rochette's report of his mission. Finding that the King continued in the same disposition to treat, but was temporising, during which time the Duke could not decide, nor quit the city without losing it, he had again sent to the King the Sr. de la Rochette and Pericard, to know his final resolve, either for peace or war. [Viz. Etoile, Journal de Henri IV volume. ii, pages 59-60.] He had fully instructed them to act in either case, but he should decide on nothing till his correspondent sent someone to act on his part, as they has always agreed to share the same fortune. The deputies had since seen M. du Mayne, and the King, and he was waiting for intelligence from them; to speak openly he thought the irresolution of the people, and the little assistance afforded to him by the Spaniards, would force them all to peace; to which the Pope seemed inclined, as he heard from M. la Tour, M. du Mayne's envoy at Rome, and also from the Sr. d'Orbais his own agent; and, should he anticipate them, as appeared probable; it would be their ruin, no pretext remaining for their continuing in arms. He again begs his correspondent to send someone with intelligence. Dated Rheims, 8 June 1594. (French). Folio 273. [This letter is without address, and it endorsed as having been intercepted; it was probably addressed to the Duke of Lorraine].

161. From the same to the Cardinal [Pietro] Aldobrandini; accrediting to him the Sr. Abbé d'Orbais. Dated Reins, 10 November 1594. (French). Folio 275.

162. From the same to the Pope [Clement VIII]; accrediting to him the Sr. Mocler, Doctor of Theology, who would explain to his Holiness the reasons which had induced the Duke to enter into obedience to the King. Dated Reins, 15 December 1594. (French). Autograph very ill spelt. Folio 277.

163. From the same to the Cardinal [Pietro] Aldobrandini; stating that alliances were proposed between his family and that of the Duke de Nevers, as would be explained to the Cardinal by the Sr. d'Orbais, and requesting his influence in obtaining the necessary dispensations. Dated Reyns, 12 May, 1595. (French). Folio 279. [Viz. Letters of the Duke de Nevers, numbers 140 and 141]

164. From Katherine de Cleves [Duchess de Guise, mother of the Duke], to the same; enforcing her son's petition. Dated Paris, 20 May 1595. (French). Folio 281.

165. From Henry of Savoy [Marquis de Sorlin, afterwards Duke de Nemours] to the Pope [Clement VIII]; stating that the enemies of the Holy See and of France had, for the sake of disturbing the union between the Catholic Princes and the people, instilled into the minds of the simple inhabitants of Lyons an idea, that his brother, the Duke of Geneva and of Nemours, their governor, was constructing a citadel in Lyons, for the purpose of rendering himself independent of the League, though he was well affected towards it, as the Cardinal Cajetan, who had witnessed his conduct at Paris, could testify; nevertheless, under this impression, caused by the Archbishop of Lyons [Peter d'Espinae], (acting, as he declared, at the command of the Duke de Mayenne, their brother), the people, on the 20th inst. rose against the Duke de Memours, and without regard to his rank, but treating him with every possible indignity as a mere mechanic, and as guilty of high treason, imprisoned him in a fortress, called Pierre Assize, where he suffered under as much cruelty as could be exercised against a turk or barbarian. This affair concerned every Catholic prince, and had induced him (the writer), who was in Auvergne, to resume the arms which he has laid down, by reason of the three months truce agreed upon between the King of Navarre and the Duke of Mayenne, and to march upon Lyons, to deliver his brother, and prevent attempts upon his person, He entreats the Pope to look favourably upon this step, and to use all his power and influence to prevent the evil which the writer fears would accrue to the Catholic cause from this disunion. Dated Vienne in Dauphiné, 30 September 1593. (French). Folio 283.[viz. a letter of the Duke de Mayenne, number 98 and Cayet, Chronol. Nov. volume. ii. pages 246-7, Etoile, Journal de Henri IV volume. i., pages 422-423.]

166. From Charles of Savoy, [Duke de Nemours] to the Bishop of Bertinovo; giving an account of the proceedings of his troops, from the time he left Dauphiny, after the cure of his brother, to his retreat upon Lyons, to prepare for his intended expedition into Auvergne. Dated Lion [sic] 26 October 1592. (French). Folio 285.

[The Bishop of Bertinovo was Gio. and Caligario, 'referendario delle due segnature' to Clement VIII].

167. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 287.

168. From Philip Emmanuel of Lorraine [Duke de Mercœur] to his Holiness [Clement VIII]; stating that, were the Pope not already fully informed of the disastrous state of France, he should have conceived it his own duty to inform him; seeing that all hope of security depended on his Holiness. Of his own government, however [of Bretagne], he begs to give an account; it had hitherto been preserved from the evil infused into the rest of France and was the only province in complete subjection to the Holy See, but it was now about to be attacked, the adjoining provinces being submissive to the King of Navarre, and an English army about to enter. Again those of the defenders party were constructing fortresses and citadels in the province, which had alienated the affection of the inhabitants, who thought such permanent establishments unnecessary to the cause of religion, and feared their liberties would be endangered thereby. This mistrust was as difficult to overcome as the attacks of the Heretics. In these perils he could look for assistance only to the head of the Church. When he last saw the Queen [Louise of Lorraine, his sister], respecting a remedy for the misery of the Kingdom, he only besought her to persuade the Kind of Navarre to render due respect, honour, and obedience, to the Holy See, and to his Holiness; and their conscience ('the Leaguers') being satisfied on that head, nothing would prevent their consenting to what concerned the general welfare of the Kingdom. He entreats his Holiness to take the province under this protection and either by energetic measures against the Heretics, or by giving the sanction of his authority to a treaty, to preserve religion and the Catholics, till he should hear from his Holiness he will strive to keep the Province in obedience; he requests the Pope will listen to the representations of M. le Bossu on his behalf. Dated Nantes, 6 August 1594. (French). Folio 289.

169. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 291.

170. From the same to the Cardinal [Pietro] Aldobrandini, nephew of his Holiness [Clement VIII] at Rome; congratulating him on his elevation to the Cardinalate and thanking him for the interest he had taken in the Duke's affairs, who has heard it from M. le Bossu, his agent. The Duke had written a letter of Congratulation before, which he heard from the Sr. de la Chuchere had miscarried. Dated Nantes, 21 August 1594. (French). Folio 293.

171. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 295.

172. From Charles de Lorraine, Duke of Aumalle [Aumale] to the Pope [Clement VIII]; stating that 2 years since his brother, Claude de Lorraine, Knight of St. John of Jerusalem, was slain fighting for the Catholic religion [at St. Denis, 3 Jan 1591] and requesting that the vacancies caused by his death, in the Abbeys of Beg heloyn [Bec Heloin, Le Bec-Hellouin, i.e. Bec Abbey], diocese of Rouen, and St. Pere en Vallée, diocese of Chartres, of the order of St. Benedict, might be filled by the Sr. de Beaumesmil d'Elbeuf, natural brother to the Duke's wife, according to eh presentation made to his Holiness by M. de Mayenne, as Lieutenant General of France. The petition would not have been so long delayed, had not the Sr. d'Elbœuf been twice a prisoner, and the ransoms which he had paid, so reduced his means, that he could not meet the expenses of the first fruits, and of the bulls. Dated Paris, 12 June, 1593. (French). Folio 297.

173. From Charles of Lorraine, Duke d'Elbœuf, to the Pope [Clement VIII]; enforcing the recommendations of the Duke of Mayenne to the Pope, to grant the above Abbeys to the Sr. Beaumesnil d'Elbœuf, his natural brother, and to forgive him the first fruits and expenses of the bulls. Dated Paris, 12 June, 1593. (French). Folio 298.

174. From the same, to the same; stating his release from his long captivity, on condition that he paid a certain ransom, but to which his own means were inadequate, wherefore he urgently entreats the Pope's assistance. Dated Paris, 20 June, 1593. (French). Folio 299.

175. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 300.

176. From Charles, Cardinal of Lorraine, to the Pope [Clement VIII]; stating that a certain person, councillor and steward to the Duke his relative [Charles II, Duke of Lorraine, nephew to the Cardinal] had founded and partly endowed a Jesuit College at Nancy, and praying that for the furtherance of a work so useful in the pious instruction of youth, it may be increased by the union of the Priory of Ruielle. [Rueuil or Reuil?]. Dated Nancy, 5 Cal. April, 1594. (Latin). Folio 302.

177. From the same to the same; reciting that when Henry II obtained possession of Metz, he place a garrison in Marsal, a town belonging to the Bishopric, to the great detriment of the See and its revenues; that afterwards the garrison revolted to Navarre [Henry IV] and committed such ravages, as to induce the Cardinal's relative [Charles II, Duke of Lorraine, his nephew], to obtain possession by force, who claimed to enjoy it by right of conquest, as fully as the Kings of France had done. That the Duke had offered to reinstate him in his rights, but that on account of the walls, etc. having been damaged to the amount of 200,000 crowns, an expense which the See could not afford, and of the disputes which were always taking place between the officers of the See and the King's ministers, who had usually the charge of the town, he [the Cardinal] had decided upon making an exchange of all his right and revenues in Marsal for other lordships, towns and lands belonging to the Duke. To this exchange, as necessary to the welfare and advantage of the See, he requests the Pope's consent. Dated Nancy, 8 Cal. April [1594?]. (Latin). Folio 304.

178. From Charles Gonzague de Cleves [son of Louis de Gonzague, Duke de Nevers] to his Holiness [Clement VIII]; thanking him for his benediction, contained in a brief addressed to the Duke, his father. Dated Paris, 10 May, 1595 (Italian). Folio 306. [This Ch. Gonzague afterwards became Duke of Mantua].

179. A duplicate of the above letter. Dated Troyes, 2 June 1595. Autograph. [Endorsed, apparently in Clement VIII's hand, ‘Al C. Aldob.’]. Folio 308.

180. From the same [now Duke of Nevers] to the same; expressing his desire to follow his late father's example, and thanking his Holiness for the brief which he had received, through Monsr. d'Evreux [without date; the Duke his father died 23 October 1595]. (Italian). Autograph. Folio 310.

181. From the same to Cardinal Borghese; stating the death of Messire Jehan de Cleves, Bishop of Bethlehem, who had been appointed on the Duke's nomination as all preceding Bishops had been named by former Dukes de Nevers, and requesting that Messire Erard de Rochfort may be appointed to the vacant See; to which request the Duke anticipates no objection, the said See being in partibus infidelium, and worth only 40 crowns per annum, and having only a small chapel in the Duchy of Nevers, without diocese or parishioners. He also requests, that the bulls of the Abbey of Toussaintz, held by the said late Bishop of Bethlehem, may be expedited in favour of the Duke's second son; nominated by the King. Dated Nevers, 30 October 1619. (French). With his seal. Folio 312.

182. From the same to the same; urging him to obtain a grant of the collation of the Priory of La Charité for the Duke's second son, and stating he had despatched a second messenger for the bulls, which, if granted, would prejudice no one, as his son would make no claim to the benefice, if it were not in his Holiness' power to collate it. He also requests the Cardinal to expedite the bulls of the Bishopric of Betleem [Bethlehem], of which the jus patronatus belonged to his house. Dated Paris, 24 December 1619. (Italian). With his seal. Folio 314. [This letter is endorsed ‘In materia della differenza del Priorato della Carita, nata fra lui et il Cardl. di Guisa.’ [Translation crossed out: ‘In the matter of the differences between the Duke and the Cardinal of Guise, respecting the Priory of La Charité].

183. From [François Savary de] Breves to the Cardinal Grand Master, Prince of the Isle of Malta [Hugues de Loubeux de Verdalle, created Cardinal by Sixtus V. in 1587] stating, that he had delayed writing, till he could send by the Interpreter Olliver, with the two vessels, freighted with what his excellency was aware of. His preceding letters would have informed his Excellency that what had happened to Monsr. de Lancosme, had prevented him [M. de Breves] from undertaking 'that affair', and since then the plague had broken out throughout the Turkish empire, and four persons had died in his own house, of whom one was the Chevalier D'Oriffat, and another a cousin of Monsr. Fiot, name Gouderan. The plague had now ceased and he hoped to accomplish the affair. His brother had written to him from Messina, on the 15th May; stating that the Grand Prior of England had complained of M. de Breves, soliciting bulls for the payment of thirty slaves due to his Excellency, who he hopes will listen to the explanations of his brother on his behalf. He entreats his Excellency's influence with the Grand Commander, uncle of the Chevalier d'Oriffat, whose will he had forwarded to his [M. de Breves'] brother. Dated Pera near Constantinpole, 5 September, 1592. (French). Folio 315.

[De Breves went to Constantinople as adjunct to his uncle Jacques de Savary-Lancosme, ambassador to the Parte. Lancosme dies in 1591 when Breves was ordered to remain as resident, but he refused, unless allowed the dignity of Ambassador, which was granted.]

184. From the same to Cardinal Borghese; stating that on two occasions, once by the command of the late King, Henry the Great, and since by the present King and his mother, he had been commanded to request of the Pope the promotion of the Archbishop of Toulouse; son to the Duke d'Espernon, to the dignity of Cardinal, which he assures the Cardinal would be very acceptable to the King, and he requests him to second the application. The Duke d'Espernon had feared his Holiness would be unwilling to grant this favour, on account of the faults of the Count de Candalle, the Archbishop's brother; he hopes however the Count's conduct would not be suffered to weigh in the matter, and indeed he trusted to be able to send news of his conversion within a month. Dated Rouen, 24th December 1617. (French). Folio 318.

[See 3 letters of Louis XIII, numbers 79, 80 and 81, and a letter of the Duke d'Espernon, number 151. Ante and Policies des Manuscripts du Roy, volume 7, pages 272-339].

185. From Louis de la Valette, Archbishop of Toulouse [son of the Duke of d'Espernon] to [Cardinal Borghese?]; earnestly requesting his assistance towards being promoted to the Cardinalate, and hoping that he shall not always be condemned for the faults of another. Dated Rouen, 26 December 1617. (French). Folio 320.

186. From Maximilian de Bethune Rosmy [Duke of Scilly] to the Pope [Paul V]. Dated Paris, 17 November 1605. (French). Autograph.* Folio 322. [This letter of the famous Sully was in reply to a brief which he had received from the Pope, couched in very flattering terms, urging his conversion to the Romish Church. Sully was evidently very proud of this composition of which he gives some curious particulars in his memoirs, book 21. See volume. ii, page 480 edit. of 1747 and see also the Ambassades de Card[inal]. Du-Perron, pages 443 etc] * This letter has been a good deal injured by damp, and a recent transcript of it has therefore been made, and inserted. Folio 322.

187. From the same, now Duke de Sully, to Cardinal Barberino [Maffeo Barberino; afterwards P. Urban VIII]; requesting him to procure a dispensation, to enable a Carmelite monk of the Duke's town of St. Amand to hole the Cure of the place, which had been resigned in his favour; all the inhabitants of the place had petitioned the Duke to interfere. Dated Fontainebleau, 26 May 1607. (French). Autograph. Folio 324.

188. From the same to the Pope [Paul V]. Dated Paris, 11 December 1607. (French). Autograph. With his seal. Folio 326.[See Sully's account of this letter, Memoirs, page 24, volume iii, page 31]

189. An Italian translation of the preceding letter. Folio 328.

190. From [Philippe de] Bethune, [Count of Selles and of Charost, younger brother of the Duke de Sully], to the Pope [Paul V]; thanking him for a brief which he had received, by the hands of the nuncio [Cardinal Barberini]. Dated Paris, 11 December 1607. (French) Autograph. With 2 small seals. Folio 329.

191. From [Charles Albert, Duke] de Luynes, to the Cardinal Borghese; stating that he had been desired by the Queen Mother [Mary de' Medici], to solicit his influence in procuring a Cardinals hat for Monsieur de Lusson [Richelieu, then Bishop of Lucon]; and to this request he desired to add his own, he being now united with him in the service of the Queen Mother. Dated Lezigny, 4 December [1620?]. (French). Autograph, with 2 small seals. Folio 331.

[See a letter of Henry IV to the Cardinal, number 63, and three letters of Louis XIII, numbers 79, 80 and 81].

192. From the same to the Pope [Paul V]; expressing his thanks for a brief of congratulation on the success of the King's affairs, and stating he had sent M. de Marsillac to Rome, to prevent his acknowledgements in person. Dated Grenade, 28 October 1620. (French). Autograph, with 2 small seals. Folio 333.

193. From Alexandre de Vendosme [Grand Prior of France, younger son of Henry IV by Gabrielle d'Estrées], to the Pope [Paul V]; requesting that the bulls of the Abbey of Vallasse in Normandy might be expedited for him, gratis. The Abbey, vacated by the death of the late Bishop of Chartres, was given to him by the King. Dated Paris, 2 June 1620. (French). Autograph, with 2 small seals. Folio 335.

194. From François de Lorraine [Count Vaudemont, and afterwards Duke of Lorraine, younger son of Charles II, Duke of Lorraine, and of Claude of France, daughter of Henry II] to Cardinal Borghese; introducing to the Cardinal his son, the Prince of Vaudemont. Dated Nancy, 23 October 1620. (French). Autograph, with 2 small seals. Folio 335.

195. From Erric de Lorraine [Bishop of Verdun, then a Capucin, afterwards Bishop of Tripoli, and Suffragan of the Bishop of Strasbourg, son of Nicolas de Lorraine, first Duke of Mercœur, by his third wife Catherine de Lorraine, daughter of the Duke d'Aumale] to Monsieur de Chanvalon; begging him to contradict the calumnious reports circulated to his prejudice, and to assure the King of his obedience, which he hopes to do in person, on his return to Lorraine. Dated Angers, 14 January [1603 or 4?]. (French). Autograph, with 2 small seals. Folio 339.

196. From François de Bonne, Duke de] Lesdignieres to [blank]; stating that the Father la Rivière had brought his offers of service to him, and that the general of the minims had given the Father leave; the Duke would retain him till the nuncio should declare a dispensation for the marriage of the Marechal de Crequy with the Duke's daughter. Dated Compiegne, 31 May 1624. (French). Folio 340.

G. Letters and Relations of the Cardinal Bentivoglio, when Archbishop of Rhodes, and nuncio in Flanders, to Cardinal Borghese, nephew of P. Paul V during the years 1608, 1609, 1614, 1615. Those marked with an asterisk are autographs, the others are signed by the Cardinal. None of them have been printed. The whole are in Italian.

197. * Detailing the proceedings of the States of Holland, and of the negotiations for the various powers, previous to the assembly of a general congress to treat for peace between Spain and the States. Dated Brussels, 5 January 1608, with his seal. Folio 342.

198. * In continuation of the last, with an account also of his conferences with the confessors of the Archduke [Albert] and the Infanta [Isabella], relative to the means proper to be taken to secure the free exercise of the Catholic Religion. Dated Brussels, 19 January 1608. Folio 346.

199. * Giving a long account of a secret conference between himself and the Marquis Spinola, on the treaty between Spain and the States. Dated Brussels, 3rd January 1609. Folio 352.

200. * Giving an account of all that had come to his knowledge, respecting the movements of the Prince of Condé and the nobles joined with him against the Queen's party; and of the seizure by them of Megieres; with an account of the conferences he had held with the French Ambassador, the Archduke [Albert], and the Marquis Spinola, as to the measures to be taken by the respective powers in the contest. Dated Brussels, 1 March 1614, with his seal. Folio 356.

201. * Giving an account of his conferences with the Count Zollern, who was deputed by the Elector of Cologne to learn the Archduke's mind, respecting the election for a King of the Romans. Dated Brussels, 15 March 1614, with his seal. Folio 360.

202. Respecting a complaint made by the Elector of Cologne to the Archduke, the Spanish Ambassador, and the Marquis Spinola, of the expense he was forced to incur, in maintaining 1500 foot and 400 horse for the security of his dominions, during the disputes about the affairs of Juliers [Duchy of Jülich]. Dated Brussels, 4 July 1615, with his seal. Folio 363.

203. Detailing the particulars of two conferences one with the French ambassador, respecting the affairs of Juliers, the other with the Marquis Spinola on the disputes between Spain and the united Provinces. Dated Brussels, 4 July 1615, with his seal. Folio 365.

[To the last two letters are attached a statement of their contents, in a different hand.]