THE Present State of the affairs betwixt the Emperor and King of BOHEMIA, and their Confederates, as it hath been very truly related, by certain Letters Sent by Persons of extraordinary quality, &c.  
Together With the Occurrents lately happened in the Armies of general veer, the Princes of the union, and SPINOLA,  
Translated out of the French, and High Dutch copies.  
Printed, 1620.   

To the most Excellent and Illustrious Prince and Lord FREDERICKE, by the Grace of GOD King of BOHEMIA, Count Palatine of the RHINE, Prince Elector of the Sacred roman Empire, Duke of BAVARIA, marquis of MORAVIA, Duke of LVTZELBVRG, and SILESIA, marquis of LVSATIA, our most dear Lord, Brother, Gossip, Neighbour and Confederate.  
GReat KING: The hopes and desires of your Majesties Friends and our Confederates, haue met at last with Peace and contentment: whilst all the faithful and well affencted people, States, and Nobility, joining hearts and voices, haue now in the end with one consent delivered up the government of this kingdom into our hands: not doubting of our care and endeavour to protect and defend the same; A work whom none but men deprived of reason will aclowledge unto other then the immediate power of God: Whither for our own good, or prejudice; he that disputeth it; boldly inquireth after the insearchable counsels of God: But it is enough that no times from the Foundation of the World haue given examples or testimony of a more hearty and unanimous Consent, in the Defence of true Religion, the love of God and the maintaining of Christian Liberty: then are these that hath thus brought forth two such kings: Wherefore since wee are thus Designed and called forth, let us with Care and wisdom boldly enter into the Defence of the common Cause, and in the name thereof wee salute your Majesty; Nothing; no not our own Blood binding us to more love and service then wee profess to your Majesty, desiring but so much Honour as to haue time and place to agree of a meeting, where sincerely and as Brothers wee may confer of the affairs of Religion, and the public weal of our countries: Whereof shortly and with speed I shall writ more at large to your Majesty:  
Your Brother Gossip and Confederate, gabriel. N●uisolij 28. of August. 1620.   

Serenissimo Principi ac Domino Frederico Dei G. Regi Bohemiae, Comiti Palatino Rheni, S.R.I. Principi Electori, Duci Bauariae, Marchioni Morauiae, Lucemb. & Silesiae Duci, Lusatiaeque Marchioni, &c. Domino Fratri Compatri Vicino & Confederato nobis Charissimo.  
SErenissime Rex Domine Frater Compater Charissime. Satisfactumiam est desideratissimis tam vestrae Dilectionis quam omnium Confoederatorum nostrorum votis dum videlicet vniuersi fideles Status & Ordines nostri, paribus votis & saffragijs personam nostram ad Regni huius fastigiam evehendo, nostrae seize curae regimini & Conseruationi subijcere nequaquam dubetauerint. Opus hoc solius Dei esse nullus fueri● nisi penitus visu menteque captus, qui inficias ire posset. Bonone vero nostro an malo, quis inperscrutabilia Deiconsilia inuestiget? Sufficit nullum seculum ab orb condito vidisse saltem talta tempora, qui tam coniunctissimis animis, qua in Deum, qua in puriorem Orthodoxam religionem, qua in restitutionem libertatum publicarum, d●os Reges tam inaudito & stupendo exemplo produxissent. Quaecum ita sint, tanto iam apertiore cordis intimi affectu remcausamque communem aggrediamur oportet, eoque nomineid vnicè à V. Dilectione effl●gitamus, nos non aliter ergà se affict quam ergà proprium & si quid maius dici posset, Sanguinem, certò sibi persuasum habere velit, nihilque iam cogitare amplius, quam vt occasio & locus commodus suppetat, quo mutuo congressu res nostras sincere invicem communicare liceat, de quo propediem ad V. Dilectionem sumus perscripturi. Reliqua cum nuper per Dominum Plesseum, tum praesenti queque baron ab Hogieowa in privatis colloquijs vltrò citroque agitatis, Dilectionis V. referenda concredimus. Quibus candem fidem indubiam adhibere & nos amore continuo prosequi non cessabit. Deus Dilect. V. conseruit diutissisime regnantem & florentem. Dabantur Nouisolij 28. Augusti, 1620.  
Dilectionis V. Frater, Compater & Confoederatur Studiosissimus: gabriel.   

From PRAGVE the First of September, St. N. 1620.  
THe Duke of Bauaria hath now openly Declared himself an Enemy to the King and all these countries, intending to do with us, as he hath already done vpon the river of Ense, and as he alleges put the imperial Commission in execution, which these his designs he hath made manifest by his Letter written to our King, notwithstanding that by his own hand writ, he subscribes, Your true cousin and Friend: MAXI: Protesting that he will remain so still; But the Kings Majesty hath answered him bravely, letting him know that for all his Menaces he doth not mean to go back from his true grounded Resolution, desiring him to view and red that of his Majesties Deduction, wherein is plainly to be seen the Iustnes and clearness of their Cause.  
This Duke of of bavier hath a part of his Army near the borders of Bohemia, near unto Newhause and Wittingaw, and another part he hath sent to Buequoy, a third part he hath left in Austria vpon the Ense.  
Our great Army is yet in Austria, where it is daily increased by the coming of the Hungarians: our other Army under the Conduct of the Count of Thurn, and in his absence lead by Mansfield, lies now about Weseley two miles from Newhause, and so much from Bodeweis, in that Army there is 4. regiments of foot, the Count of Mansfields, colonel Grayes, the Duke of Weymars, and Setouns, and colonel Franks, also 6. Cornets of Horse, and 1000. Hungarian horsemen, and our Country Soldiers joins also with them.  
The bavarian will haue very shortly Hungarian guests in his Country, that will not be very welcome to him, and every man wonders that he would enterprise any thing against this Country having no just cause, since always he protested Neuterality. But it seems his Protestations and faire promises were always jesuitical.  
The Elector of Saxony hath very respectively heard our Ambassadors, and also received his majesties Letters, But all his Answer is he must obey the imperial Commission, and so seize vpon this crown for the Emperour: whereupon he gathers his Army together, bending towards Aussig or Lusatia the Superior. GOD the most just judge, will in mercy look down vpon us, and according to the equity of our just Cause help us, since our Friends, Kinsmen, and Allies, and also those of our Religion, not onely leaves us in our necessity and takes part with Papists, but also rewards us evil for Good, and are become our enemies without all cause.  
Yet both Saxon and bavier, stays for the coming of Spinola, and then they mean utterly to undo us, they are agreed to meet at Prague on Michaelmas day, But with Gods grace they shall find good resistance, and it may bee( if they Dine with us) they shall pay surely for their Dinner, and whatsoever mischief or effusion of Blood will ensue vpon this, his majesty protests before God and all the World that he is most Innocent thereof, Since it is most manifest his Majesty did not intrude himself to this crown, neither by Bribery, Corruption, or any worldly respect, either of Honour or profit, but was freely Elected of a free State, being oppressed with tyranny both in their bodies and Consciences. His majesty protests also he did take this crown to hold it entire to the roman Empire, which was even ready to haue embraced the Protection of the Barbarous turk, to the great loss, shane and disgrace of all Christians.  
Wee sent 5000. Silesians together with the Country Soldiers, towards the borders of Misnia and Lusatia, there is some fear of the Polonian who being solicited by the Saxon, may happily invade Silesia.  
Bethlehem Gabor is gone towards Presburgh, where he is to bee crwoned since now the general Estates of that kingdom haue accepted him for their King, he desires earnestly to haue a personal meeting with our general the Prince of Anhalt, for he hath spoyled all with the Emperour, who hoped other dealing at his hands.  
His Army he hath divided in three partes, one to stay and wait vpon the turk and Polonian( if they should attempt any thing) another are fallen in in Stiria, the bishopric of Saltzburgk, and Bauaria, where now they are ruyning and spoiling all, the third part he hath sent to join with our Army, God turn all things to the best, for those goodly countries are likely to bee utterly ruined. His majesty uses all means to hinder this, but wicked men will not hear their own welfare. The Romish Priests begins to bee jealous of the bavarian, who they see looks more to his own profit then the welfare of their Church, for he takes all Vpper Austria to his own obedience, notwithstanding that he promised to the Pope and Emperour the contrary, vpon which he hath received great sums of money from them.  
And Saxony begins to do the like; if he can win any thing he certainly will restore so much to the Emperour as he shall not haue any need of: he hath sent Lerters to the Count of Schlik governor of Lusatia, who returns him no other answer but the Cannon roaring to remain and die Constant to his King and country, leaving the Issue to the Almighty God.  
The Duke of bavier having received his majesties resolute Answer he made no reply, but presently with 10000. foot, and 10. pieces of Ordinance Marched towards Newhause, thinking to haue taken the town, but finding Mansfield there with his Regiments, was glad to get back again with his Honour towards Weidhofenn in Austria, where the Count of Mansfield with 8000. Foot and 1500. Horse pursues him at the heels.  
Bucquoy so soon as he had received the bavarian help, sent for his Artillery to Crembs, what enterprise he hath in hand time will tell vs.  
Saxony having 7000. men approaches towards Bantzen in Lusatia, and hath sent a Currier to the governor, desiring them to call a general meeting where his Highnes will first show unto them the Emperours Commission, wishing him and them to yield Obedience thereto, but he hath desired first to bee resolved from the King at Prague, whose Resolution is, that the marquis of Iegersdorffe with all the Silesian Forces, and 6000. Hungarian Horse shall presently withstand him, so in this time our Army is grown too great for him.  
The next Sunday his majesty with all his Court doth receive the holy Communion, and presently thereafter Marches towards his Army, where in person he is to meet with Bethlehem Gabor, the Horsemen appointed for the Guard of his majesties person are this day mustered, and certainly they are a most brave Company. We shall shortly hear of strange alterations.   

Another Letter from Vienna the second of September, 1620.  
This day the Prince of Anhalt set vpon Dampier his camp setting Fire on the same, put all to the Sword, and took all their baggage and Munition, Buequoy was there also and fled towards the bavarian Army. The Prince of Anhalt and the Count Hoenlce, are followed them with their whole Army.   

From. Wien the 3 of September.  
This night there came three Posts to the Emperour one after another from Bucquoyes Army, telling how the Bohemians had fallen in vpon his Quarter being at Egenberg and hath set the same on Fire, for they privily in the night put their Army in readiness, and so set Fire on their own Quarter, whereupon Bucquoy thinking them to haue fled began to follow, but or ever he was ware the Prince of Anhalt was in his Quarter, and hath slain 400. men, burnt & taken all his Baggage and Munition, with many Prisoners, he himself being sore Wounded is escaped and no man can tell whither, but by conjecture he is fled to the bavarian Army.  
here is not any great likelihood of agreement betwixt the Papists and Protestants, for although that the Protestants haue promise of his imperial majesty not to bee molested, yet they will not be contented with his majesties resolution granted them the 13. of March, 1619. Therefore they having made choice of certain Commissioners on both sides to treat of agreement, his imperial majesty hath sent them word to leave all Disputations, and look how to withstand the great Force of the Hungarians, promising to bee helping unto them all that he can or may.   

Another Letter from Vien the 5. of September. St. N. 1620.  
As his imperial majesty heard the Propositions and demands of the Estates of Hungary, he was mightily enraged, and would not grant them any of their Requests, which caused them proceed suddenly to the Coronation of Bethlehem, who was Elected the 25. of August, and the 9th. of this Month to be crwoned, which sudden and unlooked for Change hath not a little stirred his majesty, who presently hath sent. word to spain, Pope, bavier, and Saxon, so that Dampier his going for hungary goes slowly forward, The Lord Breuner governor of Raab is made general for his imperial majesty in hungary, and Esterhasie, and Palfie, with other Hungarians to the number of 10000. who yet holds for the Emperour, these will go to hungary if they can: there is here great terror and fear for Bethlehem his great Army, who with 20000. Horsemen, is fallen in in Stiria and bavier: all Passages are beset in the best fashion that may bee.  
Bethlehem with his Wife, is arrived at Presburgh in most great pomp and triumph, who after his Coronation goes presently to meet with the Bohemian, who hath also a mighty Army, and not likely to go out of Austria this year, they haue all necessaries plenty, where to the contrary our men Dies, and in 3. Monthes hath not received any Pay, God help vs.   

From Franckfort the 11. of September. 1620.  
The 8th. of this Month arrived here the Venetian ambassador with a great train, and the next day took boat for colen and so towards the Hage in Holland. The English ambassador was here also, who goes towards Saxon and bavier, their Commission is to treat of Peace, there comes every day more supply to the united Princes, and landgrave Mauritz of Hesson, hath sent 2000. men to their Assistance, so that by Gods grace they are able to withstand Spinola.   

Another Letter from the camp of the union, the 12. of September. 1620.  
Yesterday Spinola left his camp and Marched from the Nekkerheim Hill towards Crentznach, leaving a great many Souldiers and all his Carriage standing behind the Hill, to make us think he would not move from thence, in the mean time he caused to blow up the Port of Crentznach and so seized by Force on the town. The next day captain Berkstadt with 3. Cornets of Horse set upon the Reargard of Spinola's Horsemen, and took one Cornet of Spinola's with many Prisoners, and one Mule richly charged, all which was brought to Oppenheim. The next day there was certain Villages set on Fire, which made the Princes raise their Army and March towards Altzey, where Spinola means to come and entrench himself, so to wait some opportunity for to take Wormbs, but they haue taken in our men for defence of their city.   

From the Palatinate the 12. of September.  
After that Spinola had taken Crentznach, the next day the Prince of Espinoy who lead with him some Horsemen and the marquis of Malespina, was by colonel Obertraut encountered, and having lost 60. Horse was together with Malespina taken Prisoners, and since Spinola hath quitted Crentznach with loss of some men, and the Arch-Duke his Confessor being a counselor of war( a profession against his profession) is taken Prisoner and lead to Heidelbergh.   

Another from Oppenheim the 12. of September. 1620.  
As Spinola had on Thursday last taken Crentznach with little loss of men on both sides, that same Night he caused a great part of his Army march towards Altzey, which caused our general about midnight to march with 40. Cornets of Horse and 3. piece of Cannon directly towards Wormbs, Friday morning captain Obertrant and Lieutenant Paff with 220. arquebusiers, did charge the Prince of Espinoy who was conuoying the Carriage with two Companies of Curriers, and after the loss of some 10. of our men, and 60. of theirs, our men took Espinoy and the marquis of Malespina Prisoners with many others. Our general came the last night back to the camp, and the marquis of Baden stayed without all night with the Cauallerie.  
It is supposed that Spinola hath taken Altzey because it is near Wormbes, which makes our general careful to defend the city, now wee are all declared Eenemies to Spinola and therefore wee must by Gods assistance look to ourselves, Spinola thought to haue deceived us by a Stratagem, for he caused all his Army to March thinking that wee would follow him, to the intent that if wee had followed, he would in the night haue returned and so haue taken our Bridge, which being known by a Prisoner taken, the general caused 2000. foot to go towards our Bridge for the Defence of the same.   

From his Excellence his camp the 16. of September. 1620.  
Since that Count Henry with general Veer, departed from hence towards the Palatinate, we hear that he goes towards Gulich and the river of Eyffell, Meyuelt, and so over the Mosell, through the duchy of Summiren and so to the Palatinate, where the Princes meets them, so that in short time wee shall hear of their prosperous proceedings.  
Sunday last Don Lewis de Velasco came to weasel, and so stayed two dayes, and afterward departed.  
In the mean time his Excellence hath Fortified two good Forts, every one having 17. piece of Ordinance, meaning to stay there this Winter till the Truce bee out.  
Two dayes ago the governor of weasel sent his Secretary to his Excellence, demanding of him why he Fortified there so near weasel, who answered because there was room enough there, and if he pleased he might come and fortify also.  
Since which time his Excellence was certified of the recovery of Crentznach, and of the taking of the Arch-Duke his Confessor, who is one of the counsel of war to Spinola, he is carried to the Castle of Heidelburgh, there to remain till further advisement.   

A brief Collection of certain Reasons to dissuade the Emperour from giuing Credit unto those violent counsels which hath been given him, to proceed by way of Ban and Proscription against the united Princes and Protestant States, especially against the Elector PALATINE; being Presented and delivered unto the ambassadors of France, at the Assembly of the said Princes and States, which was held at Vlme. 1620.  
FIrst, It would bee a manifest injustice, for the Emperour to proceed so extremely as by way of Ban and Proscription to Denounce against the Princes and Protestant States united, and namely against the Prince Elector Palatine, at this present King of BOHEMIA: Because his Majesty in accepting the crown which was Presented unto him by the Estates of the said kingdom, hath committed neither Crime nor offence against Emperour or Empire: having always been of the opinion and still believing so; that the kingdom of Bohemia was vacant at the hour of his Accepting of it: which by a Declaration published in the Assembly of the said States and Incorporated provinces hath been manifested out of the grounds of their native Law and free Election, as also for many other reasons amply expressed in their last lustification lately set forth, enriched with many Discourses and proofs to make up the better a final Answer unto all Objections and Informations given or published to the Contrary, as also to all false Suppositions, Apoligies and other discourses Printed or divulged within the Empire or without.  
Secondly, because in the Accepting of the said kingdom, his Majesty hath not so much looked vpon his own greatness, profit and particular Commodity, but unto the preservation rather of the said crown, which by the extremities & miseries it was now reduced unto, was thereby in danger to fall into the hand of a Stranger, and vnchristian Enemy, to the prejudice of all christendom and especially of the Holy Empire: Thus the now King of Bohemia finding himself bound by Oath and duty unto the Empire, to take Care thereof as far as in him lay, and perceiving that their Extremities and miseries had made them take a resolution never to Admit or aclowledge the Emperour for their King, as also for the safeguard of many Innocent souls, daily and hourly exposed unto all the miseries and cruelties of a war and barbarous soldier, thus was persuaded to accept of the crown, by which followed a cessation of war and the Effussion of so much Christian Blood: for which he seemeth rather to deserve well of his country, then to bee liable unto any aspersion or imputation.  
Thirdly, his imperial majesty being a Party, cannot be judge in this business, neither as King of Bohemia not as Emperour: But suppose it were not so, yet could he not undertake the decission of a business of this Consequence, against a principal member of the Empire without the rest of the Electors should there Preside and concur: And howsoever, although some of the Princes Electors excluding others, would pretend to haue taken these things into their electoral Consideration, yet will not that serve the turn: For the States of Behemia and the Incorporated countries, haue Protested before GOD and Men, against that vnjust proceeding that was held by the said ecclesiastical Princes Electors, against the advice and counsel of the ambassadors of the secular Princes Electors, neither lending their ear nor endeavours unto the grievances and Complaints of the ambassadors, and Deputies that were sent unto them, at their last meeting or diet at Franckfort: Insomuch as denying them all Iustice contrary to the Law of Nations they were rejected and sent back: Nay which is more, all their remonstrances and grievances which they exhibited by Bill unto the Prince Elector of mensae, chancellor of the Empire, were by him suppressed & not delivered up unto the electoral college to aduise of, as had been very fit and necessary for the public Good.  
Fourthly, that Precipitation of Iudgment is contrary unto the laws and Constitutions of the Empire, and unto the imperial Capitulation unto which the Emperour hath taken a solemn Oath.  
Fiftly, as his imperial Majesty is bound to maintain the Empire in Peace and repose, and to prefer the general Good of the whole Body, before his own private; So hath he Confirmed it and assured it unto the Princes and united States, and to their Correspondents in the last assembly at Noremberg, from the mouth of Count de Qollerne his ambassador: That he neither thought or would that any of the said States or Princes of the Empire, should bee incommoded or suffer any prejudice or inconvenience, for his particular assuring them that he would avow what his ambassador had delivered unto them: as also it is registered and recorded in the Acts of the said Assembly.  
sixthly, If the Emperour should oppress the innocent Subiects of the Palitanate, yet that is not a means to quiet the affairs of Bohemia, that would onely be able to disturb and not to extinguish the fire that endangers the kingdom, and probably endanger the whole Empire: which his majesty, could not do with a safe Conscience, and without Contradiction to his Holy Oath, the distaste of men and the displeasure of heaven.  
eleventhly, the Princes and united States, cannot well refuse to interest themselves in the defence of the Palatinate, holding the same resolution that they haue already taken, with the rest of the Princes and Correspondent States, as they haue let the ambassadors and the Emperour himself to understand: In respect of the straite union and Accord that they hold with the Palitanate, the which was principally made in respect of the evil proceedings of the imperial Court and Iustice: of which they haue so often Complained, as a thing which doth prejudice the Liberty, privileges and sovereignty of their Principalities and Dominions: Insomuch that it would be the grief of griefs, if his imperial majesty should so degenerate from his Predecessors, as to begin his kingdom with so violent proceedings, so estranged from the form of Law and Equity, without hearing the Reasons and justifications of the other party, a thing so contrary unto the Constitutions and Decrees of the Empire.  
Eightly, The said united Princes and their Associates are equally obliged by reason of State, as also out of the Oath they haue taken to the Holy Empire, to provide against the introduction of a civil war, which cannot well bee admitted into the Palatinate, but it will reach forth and extend itself unto the whole Empire their Goods, Lands and lives.  
Ninthly, even as for nearness and Neighbourhood sake those of the Religion could not, nor would not willingly suffer that one should make war against the roman catholics, that Confine with their Countries; so out of the like Consideration those of the Religion being so mixed and linked together cannot well permit the fire should be put to one house for fear of consequently burning the rest: for which cause it would be more profitable that even the Roman catholics in this case should haue a fellow feeling, and suffer with those of the Religion: for all extremities are accompanied with dangerous Chanses & changes.  
Tenthly, it is a great encouragement to engage and embark all Princes, Friends and allies, to bring their friendly arms and Assistance unto the heart of the Empire: The Declaration that the King of Great Britanny hath made to the Arch-Duke Albert, videlicet: That he will never abandon, forsake, or leave out of his care the Countries State, and Possessions his Children are born unto, as also he will lend his Assistance unto the States and Princes united his allies and Friends: whose majesty if they shall incense, may haue a just remedy, and take Reuenge upon the Terretories of the House of Austria.  
This that hath been written sufficiently proveth that the way of Ban and Proscription, much less the execution of the Emperours injust mandates of Via facti & armorum against the Palatinat, cannot prove the mean to redress or to establish a Peace & tranquillity in the Empire, to the Care of which his imperial majesty is so strictly by Oath called unto: But it would rather be fit for his imperial majesty to forsake the evil Counsels of those men which aim at nought but the rain and destruction of Germauy, by the Introduction of a foreign Power and Strange Nation.   

The copy of a Letter written from the Duke of Iegersdorff, general of the army in Lusatia, to the King of Bohemia.  
Most gracious KING,  
YEsternight, about ten of the clock, there came to me one of the Captaines of the town of Bautzen, who had been once before with me; he tells me, that with great danger he came thorough the Woods and Morasses, being followed by the enemy two miles. moreover, being tells me, that vpon the thirteenth of these, the enemy had raised a sconce, and planted four pieces of Ordnance; vpon the fourteenth, he approached to the Towne-ditch, he played with his Ordnance all the day long, but did no great harm. About nine of the clock at night, colonel Goldsteins regiment begun an assault, meaning to haue taken the suburbs; the assault continued from ten of the clock at night, till three in the morning: and( as the prisoners reports) they lost three hundred men, and their Colonels Lieutenant was shot in the Leg; of our men there was but two slain, and thirty hurt. In the time of the assault, there was by negligence a barrel of Powder set on fire by the enemy, which did them great harm; which our men seeing, they presently fallied out, and killed thirty, and took seven and twenty prisoners: our men took also a great many Muskets and Pikes, with other arms; and, which was strange, the enemy had left two Wagons charged with Spades and Mattocks, and great Iron bars, and a barrel of Musket bullets. And my horsemen took yesternight three prisoners, who affirm the same; and being further examined, they say, that they are but badly payed, getting but ten or twelve grosches at a time, by way of loan: also they say, the Elector hath thirty six cornets of Horse, together with the country troops, and two Regiments of foot, with four ensigns of Countrie-people, expecting every day new supply; and that their souldiers at the assault calling for bullets, had such given them, as they could make no use of at all.  
These occurrences I thought good to communicate with your majesty. Datum Goerlitz, the sixteenth of September, at nine of the clock before noon.   

The true copy of a Letter, written by the principal Counsellors and Officers of the kingdom of Bohemia, &c. To the Illustrious Prince Elector of saxony, &c. Desiring and admonishing his Highnesse, not to attempt any thing against the Kings majesty of Bohemia, and the incorporated Countries thereunto annexed, neither to sand any forces out of his Territories, to the service of the Pope and the Spaniards, to the prejudice of the Protestant Princes, and whole Empire.  
ALSO, The copy of another Letter from the foresaid Counsellors and Officers of Bohemia, to the trained Souldiers in Engernn, and other towns in the Electors country of saxony: Dated at Prague the fourth of September, 1620.  
MOst Illustrious Prince, our humble services remembered, wishing your Highnesse all health and happiness; These are to let you know, that being at this present informed by Adolff, Baron of Gerstorff, counselor and governor in Vpper Lusatia for his majesty of Bohemia, that your Highnesse wisheth him to summon the people of that country to assemble in counsel together, and to insinuate an imperial Commission unto them: as also that the said governor certifieth us, that your Highnesse forces are marching forward towards the borders of the said country, whereby wee may easily and evidently persuade ourselves to what purpose the said Commission tendeth; for that our ambassadors being lately with your Highnesse at Dresden,( contrary to our expectations) found your Graces mind to bee wholly alienated from us, and that now you are of another opinion then at the beginning your Highnesse made show of: as also that your Highnesse hath never been truly informed, touching our apology and Deductions sent out, and manifested to all christendom; otherwise it were impossible that your Highnesse, being a Protestant Prince-Elector,( whose famous predecessors, for upholding and maintenance of the Gospel, and their ancient freedom, haue not spared to hazard their Lands, lives, and Goods, in the defence thereof, against the Spanish and jesuitical tyranny; as also, that your Highnesse holdeth and enjoyeth so large a territory and Possession of this crown:) If these things were truly related and represented unto you, would ever haue embraced the execution of such an imperial Commission, wrested and wrung by papistical and Spanish counsels from his imperial majesty: by your Highnesse means( after so long atime) casilier to enforce the execution of the Articles of the council of Trent, made against all the true professors of the gospel in the Empire, then ever it could haue been done before: which their design hath manifestly and oftentimes been published and set forth in Print by diuers papistical Authors, declaring Sectarios Sectariorum auxilijs opprimendos esse: which Paulus Windec, in his Book entitled, Deliberatio de Haeresibus extirpandis, plainly expresseth: and the daily practices and proceedings of the Papists more then sufficiently witnessing their secret intents. And the examples of their proceedings and dealing with the towns of Wesell, and Donawert, whose miseries are manifest to our eyes; as also the late most bloody Massacre( made by the Spaniards in the Popes name at Veltlin) where( to the horror of posterity) being at a Sermon, they most cruelly murdered and hewed both Men, Women, and innocent Children in pieces,( thereby manifestly discovering their pretence touching the final suppression of that free Nation,) plainly show what wee are to expect from them by these dealings. And the Papists in all places brag and boast thereof in such manner, that it is certainly written from Rome, that those of the League in the Empire( touching matters of Bohemia) should not proceed openly therein as they do, till they had first won your Highnesse to agree and consent to be on their side. And therein haue now proceeded so far, that your Highnesse is content to yield in all things to the spiritual Electors, and so to accommodate yourself to the will and pleasure of the Pope, and his adherents. But howsoever it shall please God to bring the issue of these things to pass, your Highnesse must be well advised, and consider, that if you enter into arms against those of the Religion, the innocent blood that shall be  shed therein, will( by God) one day be required at your Highnesse hands. Withall, we cannot by any means see nor find, that such like imperial Commissions given out and thundered against this kingdom, and the provinces incorporated thereunto, can with equity and iustice be any ways justified: not onely in respect of the manifest exemption thereof, but also ob notorium defectum jurisdictionis: and likewise that all the said proceedings( although no such considerations were made) directly, è diametro, are contrary to all godly and human laws, and especially against the capitulations of the Roman Empire, and the fundamental laws and Constitutions of this kingdom.  
And it is most strange, and a thing never heretofore heard of, that an Emperour of Rome,( in his own private quarrel touching the House of Austria, and no ways concerning the Empire,) should be plaintiff, judge, and Executioner; as also, that some others of the States( no imperial Assembly being formerly called, nor any lawful proceeding before the same being made, nor process imperial sent forth) should of malice take part with him in his private Austrian pretences, and aid and assist him therein. But if it were a thing that concerned the Empire itself, then in duty every man were bound to lay his helping hand thereunto, for that, Quod omnes tangit ab omnibus tractari debeat. Therefore men must of necessity make their account, that whatsoever happeneth to the crown of Bohemia by these proceedings of the House of Austria, will in like manner fall upon the roman Empire itself, and in fine bring them also into the subiection and succession of the Spaniard, as it appeareth manifestly by their proceedings now in hand. Therefore in this constraint and necessity, we must submit ourselves to the will and pleasure of our most just God, and patiently expect and attend his aid and deliverance: Assuring ourselves that God knoweth, that the Kings majesty of Bohemia, our most gracious Lord and Prince, and the States of this kingdom, together with the incorporated Countries thereunto, and the confederated kingdoms with the same( notwithstanding they knew well that your Highnesse was diverted and dissuaded from him, by the imperial council; and that his majesty having his Sword in Hand, and armed so long time before to oppose the enemy, and could also haue well prevented their proceedings,) he never gave nor offered cause of dislike in any manner whatsoever unto your Highnesse; but to the contrary, ever honoured, respected, and loved you, always holding good correspondence with your Country: in the mean time omitting many good offers, and thereby hath done himself wrong.  
Touching our established Confederation, and our compulsiue Abdication of the Emperour Ferdinand from this crown, and the election of our Kings majesty that now is; as also, of our continued defence, together with the deliberation, and of the incorporated provinces thereunto annexed: Wee haue had more then just right and evident cause to proceed and continue therein; constantly persuading ourselves, that we may well answer it both before God, and all other impartial Princes and Potentates whatsoever, both within and without the Empire, if we might obtain any just and lawful audience in our cause.  
Likewise, to our great grief, we are informed, in what manner our Aduersaries, both within and without the Empire, most shamefully slander us and our confederates: and as in former times the true professors of Christian Religion were used by Heathen Tyrants, so there can be no untruths nor slanders devised nor invented, but the same are imposed and laid vpon vs.  
And it is most untruly given forth and reported, That we, by our ambassadors, haue made a league with the turk, haue correspondence, and promised and offered him free passage through this kingdom of Bohemia into the Empire; which is a most false and untrue calumniation, for that never any such thing entered into our thoughts: as also that ours, and our Confederates ambassadors, are yet but vpon their way towards the Portt or the Turks Court, and haue no other Commission nor Instructions given unto them, but onely to entreat vpon a good and friendly peace with them, as other Princes and Potentates of christendom haue heretofore done, and haue found great benefit hereby. And by this means the Empire of Rome shall by us be better secured then ever it was heretofore by the House of Austria, who when it pleased them, without the knowledge and consent of any of the Princes-Electors, or this kingdom, made war with the turk; and then again entreated of peace, onely for their own private commodity and benefit; which, when occasion serveth, is manifestly to be proved.  
And the bringing in of so many stranger-Souldiers of diuers Nations, to overthrow and subject these Countries bordering vpon the turk, as they intend, will be no small means and occasion to move and stir the turk to conceive a iealousy against the Houses of Austria and spain; and so causing him to suspect their proceedings, he may peradventure be moved in this dangerous time to attempt some great matter; it being done at the very same time when the ambassadors of these Countries and provinces are gone towards the Portt to entreat of Peace with him. Which if it should so happen, and fall out,( as God forbid it should) we protest before God and all the World, that we are not the procurers, but rather the hinderers thereof. And it is truly to be avouched, what great and large offers the Emperours Ministers haue made at the Portt, to move and provoke the turk to make war upon the King of hungary that now is.  
As also, that they haue oftentimes boasted what intelligence and practices they haue in the Turkish Court, whereby they mean to prevail against the confederated Countries, which in convenient and due time shall manifestly appear.  
Therefore in all humility, we beseech and entreat your Highnesse, as a provident Protestant Prince, to be pleased wisely to consider of these things, and not in hostile manner to begin war with this kingdom of Bohemia, and the incorporated provinces thereof, but rather to consider and think vpon the poor innocent blood which thereby might in these Countries, on both sides, be shed; as also, that vpon extremity strange souldiers might be brought into the same, not onely to the utter ruin and subversion of those Countries, but also thereby to provoke and stir up the wrath of God for the same against the wilful offenders therein: Beseeching your Highnesse, rather to hold good correspondence and amity with the Kings majesty our most gracious Lord, and those incorporated Countries; and to be persuaded what contentment you shall thereby give unto those Countries and their Inhabitants, and procure them to love and honour you while they live for the same.  
But if( contrary to our expectation) your Highnesse in hostile manner should attempt any thing against us, or our Confederates in High or Low Lusatia, your Highnesse must know, that we are bound by the laws of the Land, and our Confederacie, with our bodies, lives, and goods, against all men whatsoever, that shall in hostile manner invade this Country and the incorporated provinces thereof, to defend the same; and protest, That our intent and meaning is not therein to do or attempt any other thing, but onely with a full resolution( as the laws of God and Nature affords us) to procure our own defence, together with that of our Kings majesty,( and our ancient purchased freedoms and privileges) by us and the incorporate provinces orderly chosen and crwoned, together with our native country and friends: protesting before God, that neither our Kings majesty, or any of us, haue ever given and offered your Highnesse any just cause of dislike. In respect whereof, we do the confidentlier trust in the help and assistance of God, for the furtherance of our just and lawful cause, which wee will defend with our lives and goods, by the aid of the new elected King of Hungaria, and the States of Hungaria, and Transiluania, our true Confederates: and thereby hope to free ourselves from the oppression, servitude, and slavery which the Protestants bordering vpon the river of Ense, partly by faire promises, and partly by treacherous practices, and violent force of arms, are now constrained to undergo, and are become subject unto the Duke of Bauaria; and bereaving themselves of their privileges, haue submitted their necks under the mercy of the Emperour to rest at his devotion; and having referred the liberty of their consciences and profession of true Religion to bare intercession and hopes, are forced and compelled to restore the ruiners of their Country, and to entertain and pay the Garrisons( or rather their cut-throats) therein placed, as a most intolerable yoke not to be born, nor answerable before God and our posterity; and by us and ours, to the uttermost of our powers, by the aid and assistance of God, to be rejected and withstood: leaving and committing the issue thereof to almighty God, most just and most merciful. To whom the sighs and tears of many thousand distressed souls are directed, & piercing the clouds, ascend unto his heavenly presence. And although men will neither hear nor take pity on them, we doubt not but that at the last, the Lord will cause and move the stones in the streets, and posts in the walls, to hear and answer them.  
Yet we cannot be persuaded, by any means, that your electoral Highnesse wisheth or desireth that any of these evils should fall vpon us, much less vpon yourself. Wherewith beseeching almighty God to grant your Highnesse a good counsel, with all health and happiness both of body and soul; we ever remain your electoral Highnesse most bound friends, and seruants to our power.  
N. N. the privy Counsellors, Officers and Iustices of the Kings majesty and crown of Bohemia. Prague the fourth, September 1620.   

Another Letter from the foresaid Counsellors, to the trained Souldiers of Engern, and to some of the Cities & towns in the Electoral principality of saxony.  
RIght Honourable, worshipful, and our most loving friends, we greet you well. We doubt not but you haue already heard, that not long since, in the name and behalf of our Country of Bohemia, we sent our ambassadors to his electoral Highnesse of saxony, to desire of his Highnesse, by commission from the Kings majesty of Bohemia, the renewing and confirmation of the ancient league and friendship, which on both sides( time out of mind) hath so long continued between them; and in this dangerous and most troublesone time, to strengthen and renew the same, craving his Highnesse present resolution therein. Since when, by the relation of our said ambassadors, we haue been certified, that his electoral majesty is otherwise dissuaded and carried away by our Aduersaries; and the true intent of this kingdom and the confederate kingdoms and Countries with the same, wrested and construed to a wrong sense and contrary meaning; and that his Highnesse desire is, that we should restore and yield this kingdom to the Emperour Ferdinand, and again become his subiects; withall signifying, that he in regard thereof had taken vpon him to put the imperial Commission( concerning this kingdom and the incorporated provinces of the same) in execution, as by his Highnesse preparation for war, more then manifestly appeareth; which his proceedings are very strange to us, yet we leave it to the providence of God, & with patience attend the issue thereof, when it shall please him to effect the same.  
And we, together with these Countries, haue already sufficiently declared, and by these presents declare before God and men, that whatsoever we haue done in our own defence, or the abdication of the Emperour Ferdinand, and the election of our King that now reigneth, we haue so good grounds and reasons to warrant the same, that we are ready at all times to justify our proceedings both before God and man, being in conscience assured of the equity of our cause. And in the name of God are therefore fully resolved to defend and protect our King, whom we and these incorporate Countries( by virtue of our most ancient privileges) haue freely and voluntarily elected, crwoned, and sacred; and by the help of God, and the united forces of our Confederates, will preserve and free his majesties person and Countries, according to his majesties contract touching Religion, and other our privileges( which with life and goods he hath promised to maintain, ratify, and confirm) from all invasion and oppression whatsoever; and cannot choose but in conscience seek to preserve both ourselves and our posterity from the unsupportable Spanish yoke and slavery, whereat they and their adherents onely and specially aim. And to that end determine to use the aid and assistance of the rest of the Protestant Princes. But at this present, these confederated kingdoms and Countries, that always haue continued in true amity and friendship with the House and electoral principality of saxony, are not a little grieved that they should in hostile manner be invaded by them; and yet do not any ways attribute the cause thereof to proceed from the true and peaceable Inhabitants of the same, but rather from diuers fugitives of our own Country, now at this present residing in the said Princes electoral Court, and other wicked Patriots and counsellors wholly addicted unto evil. Therefore, that the Inhabitants and Cities of the Electorate Principality of saxony, may well and truly understand their own and our good and true meanings and desires unto peace and unity, & how unwilling we are to break off or to abandon the peace, love, and amity long since made, and to enter into hostile terms with them: We haue hereby advertised, and in friendly manner aduise and counsel them, to seek by all means possible they may and can, to withdraw and divert his Electoral Highnesse from such extremes; and not to enter into any breach of ancient league and amity with our King, his incorporated provinces and Confederate kingdoms and Countries, that never in any manner whatsoever haue given and offered his Highnesse or his Country any cause to the contrary; but can justly prove that the said States of Bohemia, from the beginning of their defensive warres, haue so much honoured and respected his Hignesse, that in regard thereof, they haue rather omitted and neglected many good occasions to them offered, which they might well haue embraced for their own avail. But( if to the contrary) we must be forced to do that which we are loathe to do, and which the fruits and effects of war afford,( although wholly against our wils) for the defence of our most gracious King and and Country, our wives, children, lands, goods, freedoms, and privileges; we will not spare to do our uttermost therein, referring the issue thereof unto Almighty God.  
Therefore once again we request and desire our friends and allies, with whom we haue been so long time in good correspondence, friendship, and amity; to be pleased for the love, zeal, and preservation of the true Religion, the withstanding of the intolerable Spanish yoke, and the diverting of the same from our posterity, with many other calamities that may ensue; earnestly and hearty to be the means to withdraw his electoral Highnesse from all hostile proceedings: and herewith commit them to the protection of the almighty God. Dated in Prague the 4. of September, 1620.  
Subscribed, The counsellors and Officers to the Kings majesty and crown of BOHEMIA.  
FINIS.   

AN answer TO THE question: Whether the Emperour that now is, can bee judge in the BOHEMIAN controversy or no?  
Together with the Extract taken out of the Acts of the diet at Auspurghe, in the year 1584: Concerning the kingdom of Bohemia.  
M. D.C.XX.