THE Mutable and wavering estate of France, from the year of our Lord 1460, until the year 1595.  
The great Battles of the French Nation, as well abroad with their foreign enemies, as at home among themselves, in their civil and intestine wars:  
With an ample declaration of the seditious and treacherous practices of that viperous brood of Hispaniolized Leaguers.  
Collected out of sundry, both Latin, Italian, and French Historiographers.  
LONDON Printed by Thomas Creed. 1597.   

To the right worshipful Master julius Caesar Esquire, Doctor of the Civil Law, master of the Requests, and of Saint Katherins, and chief judge of her highness Court of the Admiralty, etc. a nameless well-willer, wisheth all courses of happiness that can be named.  
SIr, this Collected History, of the inconstant and mutable estate of France, from the year 1460. until the year 1595. describing the great battles of the French Nation, as well abroad with foreign enemies, as at home among themselves, in their civil and intestine wars: also an ample declaration of the seditious and treacherous practices of that viperous brood of Hispaniolized Leaguers, during their bloody mutinies and attempts from time to time, with whatsoever else so serious a discourse can or may afford, I offer to your worshipful and most kind patronizing. Your ever known affable inclination to study, and works of worth, makes me no way mistrustful of gentle acceptance: wherefore, in one balance poising the Book, and in the other whatsoever remains in me, always most ready at your worship's service, I cease from further troubling you with lines urging no delight, desiring, that as your virtues are numberless, so your joys both in this world, and that to come, may likewise be endless.  
Though nameless, yet always by your worship to be commanded.   

To the Reader.  
AS in a brief Chronicle, or short compiled History (gentle Reader) even so in this work shalt thou behold, the slippery and uncertain estate of a mighty Kingdom, of France, our near neighbour, whose wars, strifes, and most troublesome contentions, as well at home in her own bosom, ●s abroad with foreign and hostile enemies, during the space of these many years, from 1460, until 1595. the accidents of all which t●m●, this present volume doth truly acquaint thee withal: for out of sundry, both Latin, Italian, and French Historiographers, hath 〈◊〉 been carefully collected, and being (for thy sake) attired now in an English habit, familiarly tells thee that Monarchies miseries, which when thou hast advisedly considered on, and therewith compared thy own Countries continual blessedness, I doubt not, but as in sorrowing for the one, so thou wilt heartily pray for the other, that the afflictions of France, may be England's looking Glass, and their neglect of peace, our continual labour and study how to preserve it.  
Far ye well.   

THE MUTABILITY of France.  

CHAP. I.  
Lewis son to Charles the seventh, King of France, is driven out of his father's Kingdom. He flieth to Philip Duke of Burgundy. Returneth. After his father's decease is made King. He falleth out with Charles Duke of Burgundy. Is suddenly strooken with a sore disease, and dieth miserably.  
AS the wavering and interchangeable course, whereto every thing whatsoever is continually subject, hath been always heretofore daily observed, in the most ancient, and renowned Monarchies that ever were. So hath it appeared in these latter days, 
Kingdoms and states full of change and mutability in this age.  and that in a more lively manner, in the strange and wonderful alterations of our neighbour countries: whose peace and prosperous estate, as it was the common object of every man's eye: so are their unfortunate wars, and woeful miseries, the usual subject of all men's speech, and nothing is more listened after, then to what end matters of so great weight and importance are likeliest to tend. The most noble and renowned kingdom of France, which for so many years flowed with milk and honey, and for the temperateness of the air, the fertility of the soil, the civility of the Commons, the loyalty of the Nobility, the dignity and magnificence of the Prince, was accounted the paragon of all Nations, hath especially tasted of this vicissitude, and change: which so long as it was at peace with itself, and not afflicted with any civil dissension, the subject honouring the King with all dutiful obedience, and the King tendering the welfare of the subject with a hearty and loving affection, and both concurring in one for the advancement of the Commonwealth, flourished in most beautiful manner, and appeared very pleasing to the eye of all Nations round about: but after that it once began to nourish turbulent spirits, and to harbour strange and unnatural humours, the Prince following the dangerous projects of young and corrupt councillors, who rather sought their own private gain, than the public profit and utility of the state, and the people being easily drawn by the persuasions of their Governors to embrace in a manner any novelty that was propounded: then began the commonwealth to be entangled in many dangerous mischiefs, and to be encumbered with sundry cares, wherewith for this long time it hath been exceedingly vexed, and tormented. And albeit there hath often been some mitigation of pain for a while: and that by the great wisdom and skill of such as sat at the stern, and had the managing of the public affairs, the ship, which was well near overwhelmed with boisterous waves, was safely preserved from the wrack: yet, as though there were a fatal destiny, which could not be avoided, it presently again fell upon the shelves, and plunged itself a fresh into a vast Ocean of unspeakable miseries, wherein it hath continued floating up and down for these many years, and at this day is come to that desperate pass, that although it be neither split upon the sands, nor swallowed up of the fearful billows, yet doth it serve as a perfect glass, to view the unstable estate of these earthly things: and for an assured proof of the variable change, and continual vicissitude in the most flowering kingdoms and commonwealths. Which albeit it doth evidently appear unto the eye of every beholder, yet will it be far better discerned, if we consider the reigns of sundry French Kings, in whose times there hath fallen out most strange and admirable accidents, themselves being especial occasions to prove a mutual and an alternative course, in all things whatsoever.  

Lewis the 11. K. of France, rebelled in his youth against his father  Lewis the eleventh of that name, King of France, and son unto Charles the seventh, was in his youth (as Philip de Comins reporteth) alured by the crafty persuasions of sundry seditious heads, to become chief of a rebellious faction, and to bear Arms against his father, to his unspeakable grief, and the imminent peril of the whole land: but that unnatural war not continuing long, and the son being drawn to his obedience, by the loving and wise persuasions of the King his father, all things grew very peaceable for a time, and the young Prince continued in very good grace, until at length by reason of new occasions of suspicion, he was forced to avoid the Realm, so exceedingly was the King his father incensed against him: and going to Philip Duke of Burgundy, who at that present was a very great and mighty potentate, was most honourably entertained, & furnished with all things necessary for himself and his retinue: where he remained for a long time, notwithstanding, the duke was very often & earnestly solicited to the contrary by the king his father. At the last all the stormy tempests being blown over, and he upon the decease of his father being called home to receive the Diadem and crown of France, 
Lewis the 11. K. of France.  he departed from the Court of Burgundy, where he had lived a stranger, and under the controlment of others, towards his new kingdom, and natural Country, which he found very peaceable, and flourishing in all wealth and prosperity: where he was no sooner quietly established, but that remembering some old injuries, 
Lewis the 11. rejecteth his father's old counsellors.  and disliking many of his father's most faithful and trusty counsellors) he removed sundry out of their rooms and offices, and imprisoned others, electing new into their places, to the great grief of diverse of his best affected subjects, & the exceeding discontentment of most of his chiefest Nobility: whereupon ensued marvelous trouble to the common wealth, and unspeakable care and vexation of mind to himself. 
The Duke of Britain, and sundry other of the nobility rise against the King.  For the Duke of Britain, the Duke of Berry, the Duke of Nemours, the earl of Saint Paul, the earl of Arminake, Beauleu, Albret, and many other great Lords and states, being highly displeased with the King, and with his government, banded together against him, and calling to their aid Count Charolois, son and heir to Philip Duke of Burgundy, raised a mighty and puissant army, wherewith they approached Paris, and held besieged the chiefest City of the land.  
The King understanding the danger wherein the town stood, 
The K. marcheth toward Paris.  and the resolution of his enemies, hasted by all possible means to put himself within Paris, the safe-keeping whereof would be most available for the advancement of his other affairs. Wherefore having gathered a strong power, marched forwards on his intended voyage, not purposing to hazard his fortune upon any advantage that should be offered, but only to defend himself, and to amuse his enemies, until the time might minister some better means to accomplish his desires: notwithstanding, 
The k forced to forsake the field.  through the rash headiness of the Lieutenant of Normandy called Le Bressy, who had the leading of the avauntgarde, the King was constrained to fight, and to adventure to open his passage by force of arms. But being valiantly resisted by his enemies, after a terrible and bloody fight, he was forced to forsake the field, and to retire towards Corbeile, leaving the entire glory of that victory, to Count Charolois, and his associates.  
As this good fortune puffed up the haughty mind of the Conqueror, making him proud, disdainful, and highly conceited of his own valour, which in the end bred his own confusion and overthrow: 
The King reconcileth his subjects, and maketh peace with Count Charolois.  so did it teach the conquered to pull down his spirits, and with all circumspect diligence and care, to provide for his future safety, in the most politic manner that he might: and having (though with much ado) made peace with Count Charolois, an enemy that he greatly feared, and reconciled his discontented Nobles, who were a long time as pricks in his eyes, and thorns in his sides, and withal concluded a league with Edward the fourth King of England, at Pikquennie, to his great advantage, there remained nothing that might any way endanger his estate, but only the greatness of Charles Duke of Burgundy, who though he were at amity with the King, yet for that he had a most turbulent spirit, and of all other could least abide to continue for any long time together in peace, the King thought he had just occasion to suspect him, 
Charles D. of Burgundy slain at Nancy.  and therefore howsoever in outward show he made much of him, yet in heart he wished for nothing more than his confusion and overthrow: which appeared most apparently by his secret practices against the Duke, and then could no longer be hid, when as he heard of his discomfiture at the battle of Nancy, where the said Duke was slain, his army put to flight, and the glory of that noble house of Burgundy, which had flourished for the space of an hundred and twenty years, in all pomp and magnificence, was utterly defaced and obscured. For presently upon the news, the King was so exceeding joyful, that he did not in a manner regard how richly and bountifully he rewarded the Messengers of so glad and joyful tidings. Now began he to study for nothing so much as how to dismember this poor afflicted Dukedom, and by all means possible to tear and rend it in pieces.  

K. Lewis of France getteth a great part of Burgundy.  He first gained by liberal rewards, and fair promises, the chiefest of the Burgonian Nobility, and likewise the Captains of sundry strong Towns, by which means he gate Abbeville, Peronne, Arras, Hesdin, Bollogne, Dyion, and many other principal places, so that it seemed that the better part of the Dukedom of Burgundy was now brought under the king's obedience, and annexed to the rest of the Dominions of the Flower de Lis, By which means the revenues of the Crown were greatly augmented, the land exceedingly strengthened, the same and honour of the king wonderfully increased, all things falling out in a manner as well as might be wished or desired.  
But he had no sooner attained to so high a degree of happiness, but he was presently crossed with new miseries and afflictions, which in small continuance of time did wholly bereave him of his former joys. For being at dinner at a Village near unto Chynon, he was suddenly strooken with so vehement a pain, 
The King strooken with a sudden disease.  that he lost his speech and senses, for the space of two days together, not remembering nor knowing any that were nearest about him. And albeit, by reason of those great means, which were used, his body was somewhat recovered, and his mind much bettered, so that he seemed to come to some reasonable understanding and knowledge: yet was he so weakened, and every part of him so mightily decayed, that it was not possible to free him of his malady so long as he lived. Besides, he grew so suspicious of all sorts, and so jealous of his own son, and son in Law, that he was never at quiet, but lived in such continual fear, lest that honour and reverence which had been for so long a time given unto him, should now be any ways diminished, or his former authority impaired, that for the maintenance thereof he vexed himself in most strange and pitiful sort. He would not at any time come abroad, nor be seen but of some few, in whom he reposed a special confidence.  
His Court Gates were continually guarded, yea, his very Chamber Door so surely watched, 
The misery of Lewis the 11.  as that it was impossible to keep a prisoner in more straight manner, than he kept his own self. And being a king, that in former times had taken his delight in so many rich, beautiful, and flourishing Cities, and solaced himself in so many stately Palaces, and pleasant gardens, was now (to his unspeakable torment) confined in a narrow room, sequestering himself from all company, and every other thing, which might breed his delight, or increase his comfort: and so continued in this miserable estate, always languishing in fear, 
The death of Lewis the eleventh King of France.  until his death, which was in the year 1483. and having reigned two and twenty years, left behind him a son, who succeeded in the kingdom, in whose days fell out many strange and admirable occurrences, as shall appear in the Chapter following.   

CHAP. II.  
Charles the eight invadeth Italy, and conquereth Naples. Alphonsus and Ferdinando fly into Cicilia: the Venetians and other Princes levying a great power, drive the French out of Italy. The battle of Tarro. The French king dieth suddenly.  
ALbeit that Lewis the eleventh not long before his death, 
Charles the eight succeeded his father Lewis in the kingdom of France.  had oftentimes, and that very seriously, advised his son Charles, who was to succeed him in the kingdom, to maintain peace and amity with all his neighbours round about, and by no means to enter into wars with any foreign Princes, before he were grown to ripe years, and that the Realm which had endured so many calamities and miseries, wherewith it was greatly impoverished, should be grown rich again, and better provided to resist any violence that should be offered: yet could not the grave and strong persuasions of so wise and well experienced a Prince, take such deep rooting in the heart of this young King, but that thorough his own ambitious desire to make himself great, and the manifold reasons alleged by sundry of his advisants, partly to flatter him in his own honour, but more especially to serve their own turn, they were quickly plucked up again, and he fully resolved to enter into a war, which of all other was thought most dangerous, and which wrought as strange effects, as much variety, and as singular alterations and changes, as any other whatsoever. All which to the end they may be the better understood, it shall be very convenient to rip up the matter from the beginning, and in as few words as may be, to show the original of so great trouble, as afterwards ensued.  
Charles the eight King of France pretending a title to the Kingdom of Naples, as heir to Reynard Duke of Anjou, 
Lewis Sfortia D. of Milan, persuadeth Charles the eight to conquer Naples.  was no sooner settled in his kingdom, but he was forthwith induced by the colourable persuasions of Lewis Sfortia, who had not long before usurped the Dukedom of Milan, to put in his claim, and with might and main to assay to get so noble, so rich and renowned a Diadem. Notwithstanding, for that it was a matter of no small importance, it was thought good to have it thoroughly debated in Council, and to hear the opinions of the wisest and the best experienced in the land, who when they had with great maturity of judgement pondered every circumstance: as the danger the king was likely to thrust himself into, the infinite treasure that must be expended: as also what a multitude of valiant men's lives that would cost, before so glorious a victory could be achieved, and the difficulty that would be in keeping that being once gotten: 
The King's Council dissuadeth the King from the conquest of Naples.  they wholly resolved that it was an enterprise in no wise to be attempted. Notwithstanding, the king who was young, & desirous to eternize his name by some memorable attempt, could in no wise be diverted, being moved as it were by some divine instinct, and encouraged by sundry remonstrances of two of his principal favourites, called Vere and Brissonet, both which were but mean politics, and of all other most ignorant in military affairs. These two were daily solicitors of the king, 
Vere and Brissonet incite the king to enter Italy  who otherwise was but too willing of himself, to provide all necessaries for his intended voyage, and to set forward with as much celerity as possibly might be.  
The younger sort of the French Nobility, and such as had least experience, were likewise exceeding desirous to enter Italy by force of Arms, and to show their valour and noble courage to foreign Nations. All things seemed to concur for the furtherance of this happy attempt, save that which was most necessary and that was, wise and well experienced Captains, and store of silver and gold, which are accounted as the veins and sinews of the wars. There were men enough, but such as were most fit were most unwilling: the King's Coffers were empty, and nothing could be borrowed but upon great interest and good assurance. Thus the lets were many, and the means to effect any thing with honour, very small: and in the end, if the success were such as was desired, yet should there be nothing gotten, (as Lewis the eleventh was wont to say) but infinite trouble and imminent peril, and that with the effusion of much French blood.  

The King resolveth to go to Naples contrary to the opinion of his council.  The King resolving to pass into Italy notwithstanding whatsoever could be alleged to the contrary, made a league with Ferdinando King of Spain, with Maximilian king of the Romans, and with Philip Archduke of Austria, and Duke of Flanders, as also with the King of England, lest being occupied in his wars abroad, he might happen to be molested at home by some foreign enemy: and deferring his journey until the spring following, which should be in the year 1493. in the mean while commanded that all things should be in a readiness, which were requisite for the maintenance of his Army. All men of understanding wondered at this strange resolution of the King, and the best affected towards the Crown of France did marvelously fear the sequel of so dangerous a journey.  
The more to encourage the King, and to stir him up to prosecute his intended voyage, 
The D. of Milan cometh to Ast to the French King.  Lewis Sfortia, who usurped the Dukedom of Milan (as is already said) and had been the first motioner of this war, did not only promise unto the King all the aid and furtherance that might be, by his ambassadors, but also came himself with the Duchess his wife, very nobly accompanied unto the King, being at Ast. where, after some debating of the matter, and cleared of sundry doubts, the king resolved to pass forward, and so came to Pavia, without any let or interruption: from thence he went towards Sarzana, being a very strong Castle, and belonging to the Florentines, which in the end was taken and kept by the French. 
The French Kings prosperous success in Italy  The Citizens of Florence being not a little amazed at the King's prosperous success, thought it best to offer him all the favour and kindness that might be, humbly desiring him to come and repose himself in their City, and to refresh his Army in the rest of their territories, as Pisa, Lygournia, Petrasancta, and Librafacta. Thus had the French gotten the whole state of the Florentines into their possession: this bred a marvelous change in Italy, and sundry Cities being weary of their governors, rebelled and chose them new Lords. 
The Florentines rebel against Peter de Medici's their D. who in great misery fled to Venice.  The Florentines themselves considering that the French were grown strong, became their vassals, and conspiring against their Duke, called Peter de Medici's, drove him out of the City, & took whatsoever he had, and reserved it for their own uses. The poor distressed Duke fled to Venice, in very miserable estate, where he had much ado before he could be received. Thus was the house of the Medici's overthrown, which had flourished in great wealth, power, and authority, for the space of 60. years: the King departing from Florence came to Sennes, and so to Viterbium, and from thence to the Castle of Brachana.  
Although that Alphonsus King of Naples, 
Alphonsus' King of Naples provideth to withstand the French.  was at the first but little moved with the coming of the French, yet to prevent the worst, he had provided two great and puissant armies: that by sea was lead by his brother Frederik: and the other by land, by his son Ferdinando, with whom were these famous and renowned Captains, Virgilius Vrsinus, Petilian, and the Lord of Trevoule. Ferdidinando was gotten into Rome, and hoped to keep the City against the French King, but the Pope being willing to follow the good fortune of the Conqueror, suffered him to enter: 
The Pope yieldeth to to the French.  whereupon Ferdinando was forced to fly away in the night, and with all possible speed to retire towards Naples.  
His father Alphonsus being wonderfully terrified with this heavy news, and remembering the manifold injuries offered to the Neapolitans, both by his father and himself, though he had been a very valiant, courageous, 
Alphonso yieldeth his Kingdom to his son, and flieth into Cicilia.  and hardy Prince, yet he thought it best to yield to the time, and giving over the kingdom into his sons hand, with a heavy heart and mournful cheer, sailed into Cicilia, with the Queen his mother in law, who was daughter to Ferdinando king of Castille. Before his departure he was continually tormented with sundry imaginations, often crying out that the King of France was coming, and that the very houses, trees, and stones in the streets were all become French: 
The great fear of Alphonsus.  and so with a passionate mind forsook Naples: where by the way we may observe one thing, which Philip de Comins noteth as a strange accident, and that is, that in less than two years space there were five kings of Naples, which were Ferdinando the father of Alphonsus, Alphonsus, Ferdinando his son, 
Five Kings of Naples in less than two years.  Charles the eight, king of France, and Frederik the brother of the said Alphonsus.  
The young King Ferdinando made great preparation to withstand the French, and having gathered a strong power, encamped at Saint Germin, in the frontiers of his territories, resolving to stop the passage of the enemy at that place. Notwithstanding, the French king marched on with great courage, taking Castles and towns without any resistance: all things seemed to yield voluntarily unto him, and to bend at his beck: yea, Ferdinando himself durst not abide him, though he were strongly fortified and encamped in a place of great advantage: For assoon as he understood by his espials, that the French were within two leagues, 
Ferdinando K. of Naples, flieth from the French.  he fled in very disordered manner towards Capua, suffering the French King to enter at his pleasure, and from thence hasted to Naples, fearing a revolt among the Citizens, which indeed immediately ensued upon the approach of the French: who coming to Capua, entered presently upon composition, and before they came at Naples by three leagues, the Citizens sent Ambassadors to treat with them, 
Naples yieldeth to the French king.  being willing to receive them upon condition, that they should maintain their ancient privileges which so terrified Ferdinando, that he presently took sea, and fled to his father in Cicilia. Then was there a general revolt, and every one made court to the French king, who was received with great acclamation and applause of the people: yea, those who were in particular most bounden unto the house of Arragon, and such as had been their especial favourites, were now in an instant wholly turned French. All Calabria, Powilla, Laurentia, Turpia, Encrenes, Tarentum, & Monopolis, set up the Flower delis. Thus did this young King run as it were through Italy, without any stop or hindrance, 
The speedy conquest of the French King.  never staying about the winning of any one town the space of one day, insomuch as from his departure from Ast, until his entry into Naples, there were but four months and nineteen days: so that he might say in regard of his speedy conquest, as Caesar sometime said, Veni, Vidi, Vici.  
The French King being entered into Naples, disposed of all things at his pleasure, and seemed now to have attained to his wished end: there was nothing to cross him, 
Charles of France crowned king of Naples.  or to stand in his way, but like a conqueror he commanded and it was obeyed: whereupon he would needs be crowned King. Which being performed, and the French not standing any longer in fear of any enemy, they began to be idle and careless, and gave themselves wholly to riot and excess: 
The pride of the French.  They seemed to contemn all others, and scorned the Italians as men of no reckoning, supposing that now they were able to pass through the whole world, and that no man durst abide them. So proud, arrogant, and disdainful were they become, by reason of this so prosperous and happy success.  
When as the King of France was grown to this greatness, that he had in a manner all the estate of Italy at his command: that he had gotten the Kingdom of Naples, and was quietly possessed thereof, and thereby was climbed to the top of fortune's wheel, so that it seemed that nothing was wanting, to the full accomplishment of all his desired happiness: when as indeed he was most secure and careless, and supposed that he stood without the reach of any misfortune: 
Sundry great princes conspire against the French.  presently the wheel began to turn about, and sundry secret practices were set abroach, to cut short the French proceed: & in the end a league was concluded, which darkened the fair shining of the Flower delis, to prove the variable and uncertain estate of all things whatsoever.  
Although Alphonsus were driven out of Italy, yet did he continually fight against the French, by procuring as many enemies against him as possibly he might: he daily laid before the eyes of other Princes, how perilous a matter it would be for them to suffer the King of France to grow so great, and sought especially to stir the Venetians against him. The Turk on the other side threatened them at the request of the Pope, if they would not declare themselves open enemies unto him. The King of Spain began to fear the loss of Sardinia, and Cicilia, and the Emperor grew jealous of his Empire. All these Princes sent their Ambassadors to Venice, and in the end banded, with one consent against the French. who being advertised hereof, began to bethink them, 
The King o● France hasteth to get out of Italy.  how they might return into France. And resolving presently to retire from Naples, set all things in as good order as might be, and so dislodged, purposing to return by the same way that they came. Sundry Cities and good Towns understanding of the league, began to revolt forthwith, and to pull down the Arms of France, which not long before they had so hastily set up, 
Sundry cities rebel against the French.  and to place those of Arragon in their stead. Thus begin fortune to frown, and to look an other way, and to abandon the French on all sides.  
The King being as desirous now to get to Paris, as he was before to conquer Naples, marched toward Rome with some nine hundred men at arms, and eight or nine thousand footmen, Swissers, Almains, and French. 
The Pope flieth from Rome.  But the Pope hearing of his coming fled to Padova, so that he entered without any resistance: but he stayed not long there, for intending to make all the haste that might be, he removed to Sennei, and from thence to Pisa, still passing forward, though very slowly, by reason of the evil ways. By this time had the Venetians gathered a strong power, wherewith they meant to stop his passage. And having appointed Francis Gonzaga Marquis of Mantova, for their general, 
The Marquis of Mantova, general of the Venetian forces.  with whom they joined two Venetian Lieutenants, or Providitori, Melchior Crevisano, and Luke Pisano, commanded them to put themselves between home and the French, and if it were possible to stay the King, and force him to pay the Almendate for the harm he had done to the Italian Nation.  
Gonzaga being a lusty young Gentleman, & desirous to win renown, by some memorable act, having intelligence by his espials, that the French marched toward Foro Novo, sent his light horsemen before under the conduct of Nicholas Annonio, a Sclavonian, to stay the enemy with light skirmishes, until he might overtake them with the strength of his army: who readily accomplishing the commandment of the general, hasted forward with great speed, & taking the French avantgard at advantage, slew many of them, and forced the rest to retire to their strength. The king overtaking his vanguard, encamped at Foro Novo, hard by the river of Terro. The marquis was encamped on the other side, right in the way that the French men should pass: so that the King seeing there was no remedy, but that he must needs fight, 
The battle of Terro.  and open the way by the dint of the sword, disposed of his army in as warlike manner as he could, and resolved as that day to try the uttermost of his fortune. And being mounted upon a brave and lusty courser environed with 7. young gentlemen of approved fidelity & prows, armed in all points like unto himself, road about his ranks to encourage his soldiers, who with their cheerful countenances seemed to assure him of the victory, and with the hazard of their own lives, to defend him from the violence of his enemies. The Bastard of Bourbon in whom he reposed a special trust, 
The order of the French army.  with Robinet Framesell, the valiant conductor of the Duke of Orleans his men at Arms, environed him with their companies of horsemen on both sides. The rearward was led by Foix, a Noble man of Guien, and Signior de Trimoville, and with them was there a great troop of men at Arms. the Swissers and Almains, in whom consisted the strength of the battle, guarded the Ordinance, which being drawn with equal pace close to the battalion of the footmen, was placed right in the front of the enemy. The Mareschall Guy, and Tribulzi a man of great fame and experience in the wars, marched before with certain light horsemen, to lead the way to them which followed.  
The Marquis seeing the French come down from Foro Novo, in array of battle, 
The order of the Venetian army.  quickly arranged his men, and dividing them into nine battalions, as well for the mutual succour each of other, as thereby to assail the French on all sides, and intended to abide the coming of his enemies. In the first battle was Petro Dodo, a Venetian, with six hundred Greek horsemen, and almost as many Archers on horseback, who were appointed to compass the hills, and to assail the enemy on the back. The second battle was led by the earl Giazza, consisting of six hundred men of Arms, and three thousand Almain and Italian footmen. The General himself with his Uncle Radulph and Ranucio Farnesis, with five hundred men of Arms, and as many Archers, with four thousand footmen, took upon him to encounter with the middle battle, wherein was the Kings own person. The fourth battle was assigned to Fortebraccio de Montoni, who was commanded to charge the rearward. Three other battles were appointed to Anthony de Feltri, Annibal Bentivoli, and Galeazzo Palavicini, which should serve to aid and secure where there was most need. The eight and ninth battle were likewise provided against all uncertain chances which might ensue.  
Each army being thus ready ranged, awaited the signal of the battle: which was no sooner given, 
The hardy encounter of both armies.  but they ran together with great fury, the trumpets sounded, the drums struck up, the great Ordinance thundered from either side, and all sorts fought very courageously. But the Estradiots, who had been repelled by the French men of arms, espying the King's baggage (which by counsel of Trivoltio had been objected to the enemy, to the end that he being busy about the spoil, a more ready and easy passage might be opened for the King) fling out of their ranks, and fell to rifling in most greedy manner. Which thing (in the opinion of all men) turned to the great good of the French: who otherwise had been in marvelous danger to have been overthrown at that encounter. The Marquis fought valiantly, and piercing through the midst of the horsemen hard to the Ordinance, overthrew a great band of Gascons, which were appointed to guard them. The French being encouraged with the presence of their king, laid about them like men, and the Swissers being promised double pay, like Tigers, tore and rend in pieces as many as fell into their hands. And had not the earl of Petilia at that present escaped from the French, and by coming to the flying Italians, with all the forcible reasons he could, persuaded them to renew the fight, the whole power of the Venetians had been utterly overthrown. Both armies being well wearied with a long and bloody fight, 
The French K. looseth all his baggage.  they sounded the retreat. The French had lost all their baggage, and the riches of Naples, which was going into France, was taken by the Italian soldiers: a great number of their bravest men were slain, and amongst others the bastard of Bourbon, a man of surpassing great valour. The King himself having likewise lost all his plate and household stuff, was in extreme peril, and had undoubtedly been taken, had it not been for the excellency of his horse, which was a coal black, with one eye. And although he gate the victory, and remained master of the field, yet were his losses very great, and far surmounted the gain he had gotten in that long and weary voyage. He was constrained to lie the night following in a simple cottage, 
The distress of the French King.  and all his great Lords were lodged round about him in the open fields, who had nothing to eat, nor any change of apparel to put on: So that they resolved to dislodge in the dead of the night, and with all speed to recover Ast. 
The French run out of Italy.  The Army was sore affrighted and every man coveted to be in the Vanguard, supposing thereby to be furthest from danger, and nearest unto places of safest retreat. And thus marching forward in tumultuous manner, with much ado got to Ast, where they stayed not long, but went to Thurin, and so to Lions.  
The king was no sooner in France, but all things went backward in Italy, 
The great alteration in Italy.  all places revolted, and well was he that could first tear in pieces the Flower de Lis. Whosoever had been friends before, now became enemies, and nothing was so hastily gained, but it was as speedily lost. And the French Nation, who not long before had been the terror of the Turk, the Pope, the Emperor, the Venetians, and in a manner of all Europe, were now in nothing more famous, then in their dishonourable flight out of Italy, leaving unto posterity a notable example of the change and mutability of these worldly affairs. And as it usually falleth out, if fortune begin once to change, it never ceaseth until it have thrown a man groveling to the ground: so it fared with this king, who began to decline a pace, and to be crossed every day more than other. His young son the Duke of Orleans, began to be desperately sick, and so continued languishing, until at last he died, wherewith his father was immeasurably grieved, 
The death of the young D. of Orleanes.  and from that time forwards nothing thrived that he took in hand: his friends forsook him, and his enemies daily increased, and almost all matters stood in very bad terms. Evil news was brought from every corner, and the worst of all other was this: death suddenly sendeth forth a messenger to summon him to appear before him, and to give an account of his stewardship. For as he was in a Gallery at Ambois, looking upon such as played at tennis, 
The sudden death of Charles the 8. King of France.  he was suddenly strooken with an Apoplexy, and lived not passed some five or six hours after, but yielded up the ghost, 1497. having reigned fourteen years. And albeit he were a very mighty Prince, and had exceeding many goodly Castles, beautiful houses, and stately Palaces, and had conquered so many earldoms, Marquesats, Dukedoms, and Kingdoms: had made all Italy to stoop, and bend at his beck, had triumphed at Naples, and achieved so glorious a conquest, and that so easily, yea, & almost without drawing of his sword, so that he was now become one of the most redoubted worthies of the world, yet did he end his days on the sudden, and died in a very miserable and beggarly place: which showeth the lamentable estate of all sorts, and that the most mighty Potentates, are subject to a marvelous change and alteration.   

CHAP. III.  
Lewis the 12. King of France, entereth Italy, conquereth Milan, taketh the Duke thereof prisoner. He joineth with the Spanish King to conquer Naples, who expelleth him, and keepeth the kingdom for himself. The battle of Ravenna. The Swissers drive the French out of Milan. The death of King Lewis.  
AFter the decease of Charles, Lewis Duke of Orleans, 
Lewis D. of Orleans. K. of France.  and next heir to the Crown, succeeded in the kingdom, who entitled himself king of jerusalem, Naples, and Sicily, and Duke of Milan, intending to conquer the Dukedom, and for that purpose provided all things necessary, with all the speed that might be. But by reason of the former king's expenses, he found small store of treasure: so that for to furnish himself, he set to sale all the offices of France, except such as were judicial: a dangerous practice, and none of the least occasion, of that great confusion, which afterwards ensued.  

Lewis D. of Milan forsaketh the French king  Lewis Duke of Milan feared the Venetians more than the French, and therefore joined with the Florentines, to recover Pisa. But he erred exceedingly herein: for Lewis of France having made peace with other Princes, bend all his forces against Milan, with whom also the Venetians joined in the end. Whereat the Duke was marvelously astonished; and began to fortify his own territories, so strongly as he might. But he putting those in trust, who were in most favour, and not such as had the greatest virtue, and fidelity, (too common a fault among great estates) lost one thing after another, and in a short space all things going backward, 
Milan yieldeth to the French.  he was forced to forsake Milan, and fly to the castle, by reason the City was yielded to the French. Which joyful news being brought unto the King, who was then at Lions, he determined forthwith to pass in person over the Alps: 
The French K. goeth to Milan.  and being in Italy, compounded with all the chief estates there, and did in a manner whatsoever he listed.  
The King having remained a while in the Duchy of Milan, and taken such order for his affairs there, as he liked best, returned home, leaving the Cardinal of Ambois for his Lieutenant in those quarters. But he was no sooner departed, but the City began to revolt, and took part with their old Duke. Howbeit the Swissers, in whom he reposed especial confidence, and by whose valour, 
The D. of Milan taken prisoner.  he verily persuaded himself, he should be able to maintain his quarrel against his enemies, betrayed him to the French, who sent him prisoner to the King at Lions. Then there was a marvelous concourse of people assembled to behold this captive Duke, who not long before in fame, dignity, and renown, had been equal to any Prince in Italy: The King would not vouchsafe to see him, but sent him to prison unto the Castle of Locces, 
The miserable end of the D. of Milan.  where he continued for the space of ten years, and there in very miserable manner ended his life. And thus was this Noble Duke an other argument of the mutability and change of froward fortune.  
Now was the French King wholly set upon the conquest of Naples: and lest he might any ways be hindered, he thought it convenient to procure Ferdinando King of Spain to join with him, 
The French and Spanish Kings join for the conquest of Naples.  who was easily drawn thereto: and the better to countenance the matter, pretended a title whereby he would prove himself rightful heir to the Neapolitan Crown. Ferdinando King of Naples, being wonderfully dismayed herewith, yielded upon composition to the King of France, and so his Kingdom was divided between the French and Spanish Kings: which two Princes could not long agree, but falling at dissension between themselves, there were many sharp bicker, the French still going by the worst. Monsieur de La Palissa, and diverse others were taken prisoners, and Monsieur de Nemours was slain by the Spaniards, under the leading of the great Consaluo, who, albeit there were a treaty of peace, and an abstinence of war concluded, yet would he take no knowledge thereof, but proceeded still in the wars, 
The Spaniniards drive the French out of Naples.  and so brought the whole Kingdom of Naples under the Spanish yoke.  
Lewis of France hearing of all this, was not a little grieved in his mind: but there was no remedy but patience, nor any ways to do any good, but by force. Whereupon he sent new armies into Italy, with a purpose to repair his former losses: but a composition was made, and all the war began to be diverted toward the Venetians, who were brought to marvelous great extremities. But by reason the Pope began to grow jealous of his own, he forsook the French, and joined with the Venetians, taking them into his protection. 
The Pope taketh the Venetians into his protection  Whereupon the French king thought it best, to desist from any further proceed: and so entering league with the Pope, returned hom. Notwithstanding he quickly smelling out the fetches of his late reconciled enemy, joined again with the Emperor, and sendeth Monsieur de Chaumont into Italy, with a strong power: who with the Prince of He●ault overthrew the Venetians, and took Legnague, Mountsilice, and many other places. Not long after, by reason of the death of Monsieur de Chaumont, Gaston de Foix, a valiant young Gentleman, was sent into Italy to be General over the French forces: who having intelligence that the power of the Spaniards was coming down to succour Mark Anthony de Colonna, whom he besieged in Ravenna, fearing the irruption of those within the Town, broke up his siege, and withdrew his forces three miles of, towards the army of his enemies, with whom for that he intended to fight, he marshaled the troops as followeth.  
The vanguard wherein was seven hundred men of arms, 
The battle of Ravenna.  besides the Almains footmen, was led by the Duke of Ferrara, and the Seneschal of Normandy. near unto them were arranged the footmen of the middle battle, which amounted to the number of eight thousand French, under the conduct of Monsieur de Allegres. The Rearward was composed of five hundred Italians, over whom commanded Frederick de Bosuolo. This battalion was flanked both by the archers on horseback, and by the light horsemen, being in all three thousand. Behind all these esquadrons, which were so placed as they rather resembled a croysant, or new Moon then any thing else, were six hundred men of arms, led by Seigneur de la Palace, and Cardinal Sanaverino. Monsieur de Foix had made choice of no peculiar charge for himself, but taking out some dirty of the valiantest Gentlemen, purposed to have an eye to every place, and to be ready to help, where most need was. In this warlike manner he marched towards his enemies, whom he found strongly encamped by a rivers side: who being certified of the approach of the French, had thus ranged their battles. In the vanguard were eight hundred men of Arms, and six thousand footmen, under the leading of Fabricio de Colonno, high Constable of Naples. In the middle battle were six hundred men of Arms, flanked with four thousand footmen, whose principal leader was the Viceroy himself, and with him were the Marquis of Palude, and the Pope's Legate, called john de Me●●●. The rearward was conducted by Caruaiall a Spaniard. In which battle were four hundred men of Arms, and four thousand footmen. The light horsemen commanded by Davalos the Marquis of Pescara (a very young man, but of passing great hope) who guarded the right side of the footmen. Peter de Navarro the General of the Spanish footmen would not tie himself to any certain place, but determined to help where most need required. And in this order they expected the coming of their enemies, who by this time were advanced very near, and the skirmish began to grow hot on both sides. The fight continued long, and many were slain: but the Spanish troops being marvelously torn, 
The Spaniards overthrown at Ravenna by the French.  and scattered with the French Ordinance, could not endure before the men of Arms of France. For Fabritio de Colonna being taken by the Soldiers of the Duke of Ferrara, the Viceroy, and Caruaiall never stayed any further trial of their fortune, but fled amain, leaving the Marquis of Pescara, and the Marquis of Palude, at the mercy of their enemies. Although the horsemen were overthrown, yet the Spanish footmen fought valiantly, and with incredible fierceness maintained the battle for a long time: but being wearied in the end, and not able any longer to endure, they began to give ground, 
Navarro taken prisoner.  yet so, as they rather seemed to retire, then to be driven out of the field: which Navarro beholding, rather desired to die, then live. and therefore not departing out of the battle, he suffered himself to be taken prisoner,  

Gaston de Foix general of the French army slain, after he had gotten the victory.  But when as Monsieur de Foix could not abide to see Spanish footmen to go away in such soldier-like manner, with their ranks unbroken, he in a great fury charged them in the tail, with a troop of horsemen: but being overthrown from his horse, was presently slain with a Pike, which was thrust into his side, and so died most unfortunately, when he had gotten a most glorious and honourable victory. The Lord Lautrech (his cousin German) being hurt with above twenty wounds, lay besides him almost dead, but being succoured in time, was afterwards recovered. The number that was slain on both sides, were well near ten thousand persons: the third part of which were French men, whose loss was far the greater by reason of the death of Foix, with whom the courage, strength, life and fierceness of that army was in a manner utterly extinguished: howbeit they entered Ravenna, which they sacked and spoiled, 
Ravenna sacked and spoiled.  and took sundry other Cities, ranging up and down at their own pleasure.  
But presently they began to be afflicted with new crosses: for the Swissers passing the Alps, and joining with the Venetians, 
The Swissers expel the French out of Milan.  took Cremona and Bergamo, and approaching Milan, Triultio being without hope to defend the City, secretly stole away into Piedmont: and upon the news of his departure, Parma, Placentia, Bologna, and almost all Romagna returned to the Pope, and Geane likewise revolted from the French, choosing Fregosa, who had been general of the Venetian army, for their Duke. Thus the French Kings affairs began to be quailed in Italy: and by reason the king of England was now ready to enter France, he was compelled to look to the defence of his own country, 
The death of Lewis the twelfth king of France.  and to suffer the Swissers to take their pleasure in Milan. But the French King reconciling himself with England, married the King's sister, with whom he lived not three months but died at Paris, 1514. after he had reigned seventeen years, and was buried at Saint Denis.   

CHAP. FOUR  
Francis the first, King of France, winneth Milan from the Emperor. His great virtues. he besiegeth Pavia, and is taken prisoner. He is sent into Spain. A league made against the Emperor. The French King is delivered, and falleth out with the Emperor. He dieth at Rambovillet.  
LEwis the twelfth was no sooner deceased, 
Francis the first King of France.  but Francis Duke of Angolesme succeeded in the Kingdom, who continuing the former quarrel for the Dukedom of Milan, and kingdom of Naples, left no stone unroled to bring his desires to pass: but forthwith there approached many impediments, and sundry blocks were cast in his way, which marvelously altered his course, & extremely crossed all his designments: for the Emperor Maximilian growing aged, and being weary with the burden of the Empire, sent Ambassadors to the Electors, and to the Pope, to desire them to choose Charles of ostrich and king of Spain, for their Emperor: but the French king thinking him to be mighty enough already, laboured by all possible means to hinder that election. Before that any thing could be accomplished, Maximilian died: 
The King of France laboureth to be Emperor.  whereupon the French and Spanish kings became earnest competitors, and each endeavoured to win the Goal from other: The French King was put in some hope by the fair promises of the marquis of Brandenburge, one of the electors: howbeit, in the end Charles of ostrich was chosen, which spited Francis to the heart. 
Charles K. of Spain chosen Emrour.  And now he daily picked quarrels at the Emperor, and at last fell flat out with him: for being a Prince of great courage, wise, industrious, rich, and ambitious, he in a sort disdained that the young king of Spain should be preferred before him, and therefore he presently hired Swissers, who for money became his mercenaries, and sent Monsieur de Lantrech to besiege Milan, which was valiantly kept by Prospero Colonno. The rumour whereof being spread beyond the Alps, 
The great commendation of Francis the first.  caused Antonio de Leva to fortify Pavia: so that now all Italy began to be in an uproar, and the French kings coming was greatly feared: for that he was a Prince universally furnished with all royal virtues, and fit to enterprise great matters: And understanding that the Imperial power had not only expelled the French men out of the Duchy of Milan, 
The great commendation of Francis the first.  but were entered France, and by besieging of Marseiles in Provence, seemed to dare him within his own dominions, he gathered a strong power, and marched towards his enemies with all speed: who hearing of his coming, broke up their siege and hasted to Italy: whom the king pursued so fast, 
The King of France taketh Milan  that the imperials were no sooner entered into Milan, but that he was hard at the gates: where he stayed not long, but that the City was yielded unto him, the imperial forces forsaking it, and flying to Lody after a very tumultuous and disordered sort.  
The King used the Citizens very graciously, and having somewhat reposed himself and refreshed his weary troops, marched discreetly towards Pavia, 
The K. besiegeth Pavia.  wherein was Antonio de Leva, with five thousand Lansquenets, five hundred Spanish footmen, with two cornets of horsemen. The king encamped before the town, and besieged it very straightly: the imperials being advertised hereof, gathered all their forces together, and having an army wherein were seven hundredth men of arms, and as many horsemen, a thousand Italian horsemen, and above sixteen thousand footmen, Spaniards and Almans: they set forward from Lody with a full resolution to remove the siege or to fight with the French, and hazard all upon a battle. The King was no sooner certified hereof, but that sending for all his Captains and men of war, he fully determined to continue his siege, and to expect the coming of his enemy, whatsoever could be alleged to the contrary, often affirming that he had rather die then to stir one foot before he had taken the City.  
The imperial Captains being driven into great necessity for want of money and other necessaries, and having much ado to pacify their soldiers, 
The imperials invade the french King's camp.  thought it best to use expedition, considering that it was impossible for them to continue long, their men growing mutinous for want of pay: and thereupon as those that stood in very desperate estate, hasted to invade the French, who prepared with great courage to meet them: they were exceedingly encouraged by the presence of their King, who should be an eye witness of their valour and prowess. The marquis of Pescara with three thousand Spanish footmen assailed the French trenches, where he slew five hundredth men, and poisoned three pieces of great ordinance.  
This unexpected accident dismayed many of the French soldiers, and the rather, for that the Admiral, who carried the chief sway in the Army next unto the king, was hurt in the thigh with a shot, and was carried to Placentia to be cured of his wounds.  

Six hundred Grisons were called home to defend their own territories.  Much confusion began now to grow among the King's Soldiers, and many of his mercenaries or hired soldiers, departed before the battle, being called home for the defence of their own Country: and the number which was least, was far less than indeed it was reported unto the King▪ so that the imperials spying their advantage, set forward, and with surpassing courage invaded the King's Camp in the dead of the night, having covered their armour with whole shirts, the better to discern one another. Their army was divided into four battalions, the first consisting of six thousand Almains, Spaniards, and Italians, was led by the marquis of Guasto, a valiant young Gentleman, and of great towardness in the wars. The second consisting wholly of Spaniards, was conducted by the marquess of Pescara, who commanded as principal in the army: in the third and fourth battles were the Dukes of Bourbon and Lanoy, who went as resolutely to the charge as any others.  
The King being certified of their approach, and having ordered his troops in as warlike manner as might be devised, courageously prepared himself for the encounter: both armies were no sooner met, 
The great valour of the King.  but the fight grew very terrible on both sides, each party doing his best for the glory of their nation, and for the obtaining of an entire victory. The King like a valiant captain and noble soldier, fought courageously, and forced the marquis of Pescara to give ground, whereas he being endangered to lose all, sent to the Vizroy: who had the leading of the foremost battle, to come to his succours, who understanding in what danger the marquis was, furiously set on the Swissers, who that day answered not the king's expectation, & breaking their array, wholly defeated them in a moment. Then appeared the misery of the French, and the king himself was forthwith in imminent peril, albeit he fought manfully, and was seconded with a valiant troop of French Nobility, who did their uttermost for their own security and honour of their country: yet having the marquis in his front, and Antonio de Leva, 
The King of France taken prisoner.  who was now issued out of Pava with all his forces, on his back, after he had been sore wearied and grievously wounded, both in the face and hand, and had his horse killed under him, he was forced to yield to five common Soldiers which knew him not: but shortly after the Viceroy passing by, the king called unto him, and making himself known, was with great reverence received, as Caesar's prisoner.  
Thus was the French king, who not long before had been in so flourishing estate, commanding not only over all France, but also a great part of Italy, being so mighty, rich, and puissant, that he was dreaded of all his neighbour princes, subjecteth to a marvelous change and alteration, 
The King of France sent prisoner into Spain.  being made first a prisoner to common soldiers, and conveyed from one place to another, until at length he came into Spain, having left all his army to the mercy of their enemies, who slew of them well near to the number of 10000 and among them there perished twenty of the greatest of the French Nobility, as Boniuet, Chavany, Monsieur de la palissa, Tremoile, Obigny, and sundry others of especial account, 
The great slaughter of the french Nobility.  as Henry the king of Navarre, Renee the bastard of Savoy, Duke Memorancy, Francis of Bourbon Earl of Saint Paul, Byron, Imbercourt, Floranges' Colonel of the Swissers, with a great number of especial account were taken prisoners. The Duke of Alencon escaped this bloody conflict, and recovered France with a mighty troop of men of arms, who served for messengers of this woeful news.  
The imperials lost not passed some 700. men, and among them no man of any especial account, but only Ferdinando Castriota, the marquis of Saint Angelo. The Spaniards were marvelously enriched with this victory, for never had so few soldiers so great a booty. The gold, silver, and precious movables of the French Nobility, were that day divided among their enemies, and every Spanish bisoneos seemed to walk in a world of wealth, braving it out in most superbious manner, with the spoils of the Flower de lis.  
All Europe was mightily dismayed with the news of this victory, and all estates began to grow jealous of the imperials greatness. The Venetians of all others thought themselves most nearly touched therewith, 
The Pope, the Venetians and other potentates, make a league against the Emperor.  and therefore they offered to join with the Pope, and to hire a ten thousand Swissers to defend Italy against the imperials, hoping that the Lady Regent of France, the Duke of Ferrara, and many other Princes would join with them against their common enemy. In the mean time the King of France was (as is already declared) transported into Spain, and sent up into the Castle of Madrill. This was no doubt a bitter receipt, and a sharp corrosive to this magnanimous prince, who had not been used to be confined in so narrow a room: but patience with hope was his best comfort, for the Emperor would not see him, much less minister any matter of consolation in that his woeful distress, neither yet did he seem to show any external signs of joy for so glorious a victory: 
The moderation of Charles the fift.  he prohibited bonfires, ringing of bells, and such like accustomed solemnities, saying that it might be seemly to use outward rejoicings for victories against the Turks, Sarrazins, and other infidels, but not against christian Princes.  
The emperors Council were long before they could well tell what to do with this prisoner, they being distracted into divers opinions: but in the end it was fully concluded to make as great a gain of him as might be, and therefore they earnestly pressed him to yield over all his claim and title, to Burgundy, Milan, and Naples: beside, he was bound to pay a huge sum of money for his ransom, 
The agreement between the Emperor and the french King.  and to condescend to sundry other things, and those so great, that no man of judgement thought he would be so good as his word. Yet for assurance the King was contented to marry the Lady Elynor the Emperor's sister, and to grant that his two sons, the Dolphin and the Duke of Orleans should be left in hostage for the better performance of the conditions. Now was France brought to a low ebb, and the ancient splendour and glory thereof mightily obscured: yea, that renowned Kingdom, which had been always accounted the paragon of all Europe, and had been a terror unto the Roman monarchy, sat as a desolate widow that had lost her husband, in weeping, wailing, and great lamentation. But shortly after this afflicted country began to be recomforted, and as it were revived, after it had felt the pangs of death, for the king being once set at liberty and gotten into France, solicited other Princes, as the Pope, the king of England, the Venetians, and other states to join with him, and made a strong league, and fell flat out with the emperor afresh, notwithstanding all the promises which had been made. Then presently ensued new wars, and all Europe was in a sort infected with this contagious humour. Fortune which had so extremely crossed the French designments, began to be more favourable, and to behold the king with a smiling countenance, for the Lord Lautrech being sent into Italy, took Bosco, Genes, Alexandria, and Pavia from the emperor, marvelously advancing the French affairs.  
The emperor being vexed at the heart with these news, complained grievously of the king, offering him the Combat, 
The Emperor offereth the combat to the french King.  calling him forsworn and perjured prince; the King gave him the lie, and affirmed that he would make it good upon his body, when and where he durst. Thus did these mighty potentates fight a far off with their tongues, and their armies in Italy, and other where sought to ruinated and overthrow each other by all possible means. After many conflicts, wherein sometime the imperials, and sometime the French as it were alternatively had the better, there was a peace concluded for ten years: in which time the Emperor in very friendly and loving manner, 
A peace between the Emperor and the French King.  passed through France, to repress certain tumultuous outrages committed in Flanders. This peace being expired, they fell again into new broils, but they were soon ended: and now began France to be scourged with the English, who having gotten Boulogne, wasted their country round about. The French king being very desirous to empale the English forces, 
The death of Francis the first, king of France.  and to keep them from foraging after their wonted manner, raised certain forts round about in the most convenient places: but whilst he was earnestly busied herein, he suddenly fell sick and died 1546. at a place called Rambovillet, having reigned 32. years, leaving his son to succeed him in all his territories and dominions.   

CHAP. V.  
Henry the second maketh war against the Emperor, and taketh Metz and many other towns. The Queen of Hungary invadeth France. The great army of the Emperor for the recovery of Metz, which was kept by the Duke of Guise. The Emperor raiseth his siege. Teroanneis besieged by the imperials. The King raised a great power to withstand the Emperor. The cruelty of the French in Henault. The battle of Reuty. The King and the Emperor break up their armies. Charles the fift yieldeth over his empire. Rome besieged and taken. King Philip of Spain besiegeth Saint Quintin's, which he taketh after he had overthrown all the power of France. The original of the Huguenots in France. Calais besieged and tak●n by the Guise. Count Egmond overthroweth Monsieur de Termes the Captain of Calais. Philip King of Spain marrieth the French Kings daughter. At whose marriage the King of France is slain by Montgommery.  
HEnry the second of that name, King of France, 
Henry the second King of France.  was not only heir of his father's Kingdom, but also of all royal virtues, and princely qualities. In the beginning of his reign he maintained the Scots against the English, but at length a composition being made, 
The king of France bendeth all his forces against the Emperor.  he bent all his forces against the Emperor, who at that time made war against the Princes of Germany, and having gathered a strong power, wherein were 2500 french footmen, 7000. Lansquenetes, 1200. men of arms, besides 2000 horsemen, & as many arquebusiers on horseback, under the leading of the Duke of Aumaile, ordaining the admiral Annebaut his Vizgerent in France, 
Metz taken by the french  commanded the Constable to march before with the vanguard, who advanced towards Metz. The town was quickly yielded, upon such composition as pleased the king, and so became annexed to the crown of France. From thence the king went towards Strasbourg, where the French would gladly have entered, but the Citizens would in no wise permit them: howbeit they offered what provision they were able to spare, but that would hardly satisfy: notwithstanding, considering the City was very strong, and the people resolutely bend to defend themselves, the King turned towards Hoguenan and Wisbourg, where the Ambassadors of the imperial princes met with him, and desired him that he would enter no further into Germany: with which message although the King was nothing well pleased, yet he made a fair show, and seemed to take all things well, and returned towards France.  

The Queen of Hungary levieth an army to invade France  The Queen of Hungary the emperors sister, understanding of the retreat of the French, devised all the means that might be to impeach them, and to cut of as many as she could catch at any advantage: and having levied an army to the number of twelve thousand footmen, & three thousand horse, under the leading of the Count Mansfeild and Martin Vaurosh, entered the fair fields of the Flower de Lys, which they spoiled very piteously. The King being advertised hereof, marched with all speed to relieve his distressed subjects: but the imperials hearing of his resolution, retired speedily, whereupon the King began to cast about how he might conquer the Duchy of Luxembourg, and having taken a Castle called Rock, he laid siege unto Saint jehan, Solieure, and Danuill, all which were forthwith yielded unto the King. Yuoy a place of great importance held out for a time, but in the end it was glad to hearken to a composition: for albeit that the valiant Count Mansfeild had put himself within the Town, and had fortified it very strongly, with a resolution to defend it against all men, yet by reason of the cowardliness of his Soldiers, he was forced to yield to the Constable, and he with sundry others of especial account, were carried prisoners to Paris. Then ensued the taking of Momedy, Luzembourg, and the Dukedom of Bovillon, by the marshal of Sedan: Cimets was likewise taken, and the spoil thereof given to the Soldiers.  
Thus the French king prospered, gaining many Towns, Castles, and strong holds from the Empire, 
The French King breaketh up his army.  without any resistance: but his soldiers being wearied and diseased, he was forced to break up his camp, and lay them in garrisons, and to expect what course the Emperor would take, to recover his honour and to regain his towns: who by reason he was occupied in the wars with certain of the German princes, could not hinder the French proceed. But he having (with much ado) compounded with Maurice, and the rest of the Protestants, employed all his counsels how to recover that which the French king had taken from him: and having persuaded with the German potentates to aid and assist him in his intended enterprise, 
The preparation of the Emperor against the French king.  caused all his old bands which were in Italy, as well Italians as Spaniards, to repair to him with all speed: who with the troops of Lombardy and Piedmont passed over the Alps, and joined with the imperial army, which was assembled in Germany, consisting of Bohemians, Hungarians, Polonians, Almains, Walloon's, Cleueners, Flemings, 
The great army of the Emperor.  and Burgonians, to the number of 50000. footmen, and 20000. horsemen, with incredible force of artillery, and all other warlike provision.  
The king of France understanding of the resolution of the Emperor, which was to recover Metz, and the rest of the towns, 
The Duke of Guise sent to keep Metz against the Emperor.  which had been taken from the empire, dispatched the duke of Guise, a man of good experience in the wars, with commandment to put himself within the Town, to fortify it, and to furnish it with all necessary provision, the better to endure the siege, & appointed the Rendezvous, or place of assembly for the rest of his army at S. Michael, a little town in Lorraine, where there met with him the Constable, the Duke of Nevers, the Count Anguien, the Prince of Conde, the Prince of Contie, the Prince of Aumaile, the Vicont of Rhohan, the Mareschall Saint Andrew, Chastillon Colonel of all the French infantry, the Count Villiars, 
The French Kings army.  Bourdillon one of the Mareschals of the Camp, the Rhinegrave, and Reiroc, with their Regiments of Launcequenets, and many other noble Lords and captains. In the whole there were some thirty thousand footmen, French, Almains and Swissers: and about seven or eight thousand horsemen. The Emperor being troubled with the gout, lay long before he attempted any thing, so that October was half passed, insomuch as the French King seeing the year so far spent, supposed that he would do nothing, especially against Metz, which was a place of very great strength, and plentifully stored with all necessaries. And the rather for that his principal captains, and chieftains of greatest experience dissuaded him all that might be, from enterprising any further, until some better opportunity. Notwithstanding, the emperor would not hearken to their counsels, nor be diverted by any means, but with all possible speed planted his army before the town, in this manner following.  
The Duke of Alva was sent before, with the choicest of the imperial army, 
The siege of Metz.  who passing the river of Seille, emcamped as near the town as he could, and bestowed sundry of his forces in the strongest forts adjoining. The Spanish companies were lodged at Saint Arnold, and Saint Clement. Certain troops of the Almains were placed at a Bridge called Magny. Don Lewis, D' Auila, captain of the Spanish Horsemen, was appointed at the Hospital. The Seneschal of Moravia, with the Bohemian Horsemen, encamped at Blery, and the rest at Ollerie, Saint Preich, and other places near about. All things being in a readiness, the imperials began to beat the Town with their great Ordinance, in very furious sort, and in all hostile manner to annoy the defendants. The battery continued long, and yet the harm was but small, neither could the breach be made sufficient for an assault. Whereupon they removed the Canon to another part of the City. And falling to mining, supposed to overthrow some piece of the wall with Gunpowder. But the Duke of Guise understanding the drift of his enemies, caused countermines to be made, wherein they had not travailed long, but they might hear the noise and stirring of the Spaniards, and so were their devices easily prevented. This was no small discouragement to the imperials, seeing they prevailed not, neither by one means nor other. Besides the season of the year grew extreme cold, insomuch as the Soldiers which lay in the fields, 
The imperials weary of the siege.  were sore pinched, and many died for want of necessaries: so that all sorts began to wax weary of the siege, and inwardly desired to be dismissed. The Almains themselves began to quail: yet as men that would win some honour, they instantly craved of the Emperor, that he would command a sufficient breach to be made, and they would either enter, or lose their lives, for th' y were not able to keep the field any longer. Then began he to before grieved, foreseeing the miserable end that would ensue, of that his rash and inconsiderate enterprise, yet would he in no wise consent to raise his siege, but with great persuasions animated his soldiers to persist, promising that if he could not make a sufficient breach before the new year, he would break up his army, and licence every man to departed.  
This satisfied them for the time, and made them to temporize, & expect their better fortune. And to the end they might all be assured of his great care to perform this: he privately commanded the Duke of Alva to continue the mines with all diligence. Which charge was so willingly accepted, and so carefully performed, that the pioneers ceased neither day nor night. But the season of the year was so contrary, and so repugnant, that nothing could be accomplished as was desired. Besides, the French who were in the Town, with their often sallying forth, did exceedingly endamage them, and slew many. So that what with the cold, 
The emperor resolveth to departed from Metz, the 10. of December. 1553.  and extremity of the winter, and the courageous attempts of the French, the emperors army daily diminished, and yet nothing to the purpose performed. Which when with intolerable sorrow and vexation of spirit he considered, he resolved to departed. And sending away his great Ordinance before, with his other weightiest and most troublesome carriages, himself followed with the rest of his army, which was so feeble, and so weak with famine and sickness, that they were scarce able to go. The Duke of Nevers was left by the King, to attend the Emperor, and to watch him at every turn. Who carefully executing his master's commandment, followed the imperials in the tail, and cut off sundry as they strayed from the gross of the army.  

The miserable estate of the imperial army at their departure from Metz.  Chastellon Lieutenant to Captain Bourdillon, was sent to discover, and to bring some certainty of the emperor's retreat. Who coming to Pont Camonson, found that the Count Egmond with his regiment was departed, and had left behind him a most pitiful spectacle of maimed and diseased persons. From thence he passed on towards Metz. But the Duke of Alva and Brabancon, were departed with a great part of the army dislodging in a very strange and disordered manner, without sound of drum, leaving many of their tents with sundry barrels of powder, & much warlike provision behind them, besides an incredible multitude of lame, sick, diseased, and impotent persons, as testimonies of their hard fortune.  
The French king being certified by the duke of Guise, of all that had passed, was exceeding joyful, and seemed to triumph over the emperor, who being a Prince that could not well brook any indignity, fought still to be revenged. Whereupon assembling a new army as soon as the time of the year permitted, he besieged Teroanne. 
The emperor purposeth to besiege Teroanne, which Pawilliers is commanded to defend.  Which the K. understanding, commanded Pawilliers to levy what forces he thought convenient, and to keep it from the enemy. Whereupon Francis Memorancy, eldest son of the Constable, accompanied with many valiant captains, and gentlemen of good quality, his followers, repaired to Teroanne, purposing by their heroical and noble acts, to win themselves honour and renown. The town being defended with so strong a garrison, and sufficiently provided of all necessaries, was thought to be tenable against the strongest enemy that was: and therefore the imperials were suffered to do what they listed. Who endeavouring to effect some notable exploit, laboured night and day, and made their approaches without any impeachment, placing their battery upon a little mount, from whence they might annoy the defendants at their pleasure. They had brought with them all warlike provision, as powder, shot, and all sorts of great and small Ordinance, from sundry towns and castles of Flanders. For this place was so odious unto all that inhabited near unto it, that as soon as it was besieged, not only the women and little children, ran thither to behold so gladsome a sight, but in token of their joys, they sung songs, with dancing and leaping, and brought into the camp, corn, beer, bread, sheep, and beeves, in great abundance.  
Their battery being once planted, 
The furious battery of Teroanne.  they began to beat the town in such furious sort, that the besieged were exceedingly endangered, no place being free from imminent peril. Notwithstanding, like men of valour and courage, they resolutely defended themselves, often issuing forth, and fight with the imperials in their trenches, killed many of them, & poisoning some of their great Ordinance, drew other some into the town in despite of their enemies. And albeit the imperials were much endamaged herewith, yet were they so readily relieved from other places, and all their wants so diligently supplied, that they easily amended as much in a day, as the French had marred in a week. So that wanting nothing that might either help themselves, or hurt their enemies, they ceased neither day nor night, but thundering continually with the Canon, beat down the walls, and ovethrew the Towers and Bulwarks, leaving nothing in a manner under which the besieged might shroud themselves. 
The courage of the besieged.  Howbeit they laboured continually to repair the breaches, and as men desperate and careless of their own security, they would be most busy where the Canon was most furious, bringing earth, dung, faggots, and such like necessary matter for defence. Which continual travel did marvelously weaken the defendants, and by reason they were no great number, they were forced to be both soldiers and pioneers, to watch in the night, and fight in the day, always in action without ceasing or intermission. In the midst of these great extremities, there entered into the town one called captain Greille, with a hundred Carabins. 
Captain Greille entereth Teroanne with 100 Carabins.  Who forcing the enemy's Corpse degard, with the loss of a few of his men, was readily received by the French, who attended his coming with great devotion.  
The assailants were nothing discouraged herewith, but plied their battery more hotly than before, shooting for the space of ten days together. And having beaten down all their flankers, and other places of defence, and therewithal made a reasonable breach of sixty paces in breadth, prepared to give an assault Colonel, which the French resolved to abide. Then struck up the drums, the trumpets sounded, the ensigns were displayed, & the imperials marched on, with crying, shouting, and after their manner making a terrible noise & approaching the breach, strived to enter with marvelous fury. The French on the other side valiantly resisted, and with equal courage defended themselves. 
The imperials are repulsed.  The fight continued long, and many were slain on either side. But in the end the imperial captains, seeing the great mortality of their men, caused them to retire, having lost many of their bravest, and most forward soldiers.  
The King of France understanding of the noble valour of his men, albeit he feared not the loss of the town, yet the more to animate them, he sent a new supply of three hundred, 
Brevit and S. Romain enter Teroanne with 300 fresh soldiers.  under the leading of Captain Brevit, and Saint Romain: who with great hazard and peril got into the Town. They without still continued their siege, and what with raising forts without, and with undermining within the ground, they endamaged the besieged more than before. And having after much ado enlarged the breach, and made the ascent so easy, that a man of Arms might pass out and in at pleasure, they cried to a new assault. The French being greatly dismayed herewith, and knowing they wanted all necessaries to defend themselves any longer, demanded a parley, 
Teroanne surprised by the imperials whilst the French are talking of a composition.  whereto the imperials yielded. But whilst they were talking, the Almains and Burgonians entered in sundry places, and the Spaniards approached the great breach. And so was the Town taken without any resistance. The Almains and Burgonians enraged against the poor French, committed many barbarous facts, and strange cruelties, killing and murdering whom soever fell into their hands. Francis Memorancie hardly scaped, and was led prisoner to Binecour, lieutenant to the emperor. Martigues, Dampier, de Losses, Bandiment, Baylet, Saint Roman, and sundry other great captains, yielded themselves to such as would take them. The town was sacked and spoiled: whatsoever was worth any thing, 
Teroanne is dismanteled.  was carried away by the imperials: the emperor commanded it should be dismanteled, and the houses fired: so that in short time it was utterly spoiled and defaced.  
When as the French King understood of this loss, he was wonderfully grieved, and fearing least the emperor, (who was on the other side as joyful for the good news) would follow his fortune, 
The French K. gathereth a great power to resist the Emperor. Hedyn besieged and won by the imperials.  and besiege Hedyn, he gathered a strong power of French and Swissers, and made all things ready, with as great celerity as might be, to stop the enemies proceed, if need required: but it was so long before his troops could be assembled, that the imperials under the leading of the Prince of Piedmont, were gotten before the town, which they straightly besieged, & battered on all sides. And for that it was not very well fortified, it was quickly gained. There were slain on the French part, Horatius Farnelius duke of Castres', Martigues, Monuille, Cizieux, Lusignan, Dampier, and diverse other captains and commanders. The duke of Bovillon, Riou, the Count Villars, with the baron of Culan, were taken prisoners. The King was more and more inwardly vexed to see himself thus thwarted. Wherefore assembling his army near unto Amiens and Piquenny, under the leading of the Constable, he waited his opportunity to be revenged of his enemies: who after the taking of Heyden, spoiled the frontiers of France, without pity or mercy. The French espying their advantage, 
The French killeth seven or eight hundred imperials.  set upon them on the sudden, and slew seven or eight hundred, and took the duke of Askot prisoner, and almost five hundred others. This loss somewhat abated the pride of the imperial soldiers, and encouraged the French to attempt greater matters: for they presently marched towards Baupalme which was very well manned, & sufficiently appointed of all necessaries, & encamping before the town, straightly environed it on all sides. There were with the Constable, the dukes of Nevers, of Vendosme, Anguien, Montpensier, and the admiral Chastillon, with their regiments, amounting to the number of 8. or 9 thousand men. the Rhingrave was colonel of the lansquenets, with whom was Reisberg, 
This wh●le ●●my ●o s●●d ●f 275●●. 〈◊〉 men, and fiu● thousand horsemen.  both which had also 4. regiments, divided into twenty ensigns, being in the whole sum 12000. besides four companies of Scots, and two of English, in all not past 1500. men. The Nobility and Gentlemen made well near three thousand horse, under the conduct of La Fail. Sansac was captain of the light horse, being in all two thousand, reckoning the four hundred English, who were very valiant soldiers, and of great courage. Monsieur d' Esire was master of the Ordinance, whereof there were in all about a hundred pieces.  
This mighty army besieged Baupalme, which place was as odious to the French as Teroanne was to the Burgonians. 
The Constable vieweth Baup●lme but seeing the resolution of the defendants marcheth toward C●mbray.  The Constable taking with him 4000 horsemen, and as many footmen, first viewed the town, aswell to see the countenance of those within, as to make choice of a convenient place to encamp in. Hausimont was governor for the emperor, a man of very great account, having with him some twelve ensigns of footmen, and four hundred horse, who upon the approach of the French, thundered from the town with their great Ordinance, and sallying forth at their gates, skirmished very valiantly. The French seeing the resolution of the defendants, & finding an exceeding want of water, which could not by any means be supplied, were enforced to departed, & to defer their siege until some other time, having first spoiled and wasted all the country round about, and so marched towards Cambray, where having summoned the town, and seeing he could not be suffered to enter, he fired the suburbs, & using all kind of hostility towards them, took certain little castles and holds near adjoining. And albeit the emperor being certified of all this, had commanded the Prince of Piedmont, to aid those of Cambray, and to relieve them by all possible means: yet the French did in a manner what they listed, and being masters of the field, held the imperials very short, who for that they were not able to encounter them, kept themselves within their strengths, and would not be drawn to adventure their fortune upon any occasion which was offered.  
The king considering that the emperor did procrastinate, seeking by delays to spend the time, until either the extremity of winter should approach, or his soldiers be wearied with continual toil & travail, having wonderfully endamaged his enemies by sacking, burning & spoiling all the country over, 
The K. breaketh up his camp.  and braved the emperor at home at his own doors, thinking he had sufficiently revenged the former wrongs, & performed all things with great honour & renown, resolved to break up his army, and to licence his nobles to departed, and to recreate themselves after so long & tedious travail, placing strong garrisons in sundry frontier towns, the better to bridle the enemy if he should attempt any thing in his absence.  
The emperor was not a little vexed with these French bravadoes, and envying the glory of the King, sought for nothing so much as for revenge, wherefore casting about how he might best effect his desire, he first compassed a marriage between Marie Queen of England, and his son Philip King of Spain, 
The French King gathereth three new armies.  thereby to strengthen and fortify himself, the better against France. Which when King Henry understood, he again gathered his forces, with all convenient speed, purposing indeed to prevent the Emperor, or at least to meet with him as soon as any opportunity served. His whole forces were divided into three Armies: the first, which consisted of nine thousand footmen, three hundred men of arms, and six hundred light horse, with as many arquebusiers on horseback, was sent into Picardy, under the leading of the prince de la Roch sur Yon. In the second were five and twenty ensigns of French footmen: two regiments of Almains with their Colonels, the Rhingrave, and Reisberg: and five and twenty ensigns of Swissers, four hundred men of Arms, and two thousand light horse, over whom the Constable was appointed general. The third army was led by the Duke of Nevers, wherein were twenty ensigns of French footmen, drawn out of the garrisons of Metz, Verdune, Thoule, d' Anvil, Yuoy, and Momedie: two regiments of the Count Rakendolph, and of the Baron of Frontenay, three hundred men of arms, eight hundred light horse, two hundred Pistoliers under the leading of the Prince of Conde.  

The fortunate success of the King's armies.  These three armies entered the emperors dominions at three sundry places, burning, spoiling, and making havoc after a strange and cruel manner. The Duke of Nevers took Ardennes, Lincbante, Villarcy, besides many other strong Castles, and well fortified places. The Constable marched towards Auannes, and caused it to be bruited, that he would besiege it: but understanding that there was but a slender garrison in Mariambourg, he secretly dispatched the Mareschall of Saint Andrew, with the Swissers, and certain companies of the French footmen, who approaching on the sudden, environed the town, and kept those within from receiving of any new supply. Wherewith they being greatly terrified, yielded unto the Constable upon the first summaunce. From thence they passed forth toward Dinon, where the Duke incorporating himself with an other strong power, brought by the King, laid siege to the Castle, which for that it was very strong, would not condescend to any composition: whereupon the battery was planted, and the walls were continually beat with thirty Canons, wherewith the French overthrowing the Towers, Bulwarks, and whatsoever might serve for any defence, made a sufficient breach, 
Certain Captains cassierd for their cowardliness.  and gave a very hot assault, but they were repulsed, by reason of the cowardliness of some leaders, who therefore were presently cassierd, and discharged of their places, and pronounced villains, to their perpetual infamy, and disgrace. Yet those within being not able to hold out, yielded at last to the king's mercy, and suffered the French to enter peaceably.  
As these two armies conquered wheresoever they became, and grew very famous for their noble exploits: so did the Prince de la Roch sur Yon, with his forces prosper exceedingly, and was very terrible to the imperials, by winning of towns, castles, and strong holds, and by burning and defacing all things without pity, or mercy.  

The Emperor raiseth a great power.  The emperor being at Brussels, and hearing of the proceeding of the French, raised a great power, over which he made General his Nephew the Duke of Savoy, who suspecting that the French King would besiege Namure, put himself in the way between the town and the King, in a very strong and well fortified place, purposing to divert the enemy, if possibly he might: which indeed was the cause that the King turned towards Henault, 
The cruelty of the French in Henault.  where the French entered with such fury, that they put all to fire and sword, sparing neither man, woman, nor child, to the unspeakable horror of the inhabitants, who fled on all sides from this violent and outrageous tempest. The duke of Savoy followed them at the heels and endamaged them so much as might be, but could not effect any great matter: for the French king still marched forward into the Country, and took the most delectable and pleasant Castle called Marymont, 
Marymont taken and spoiled by the french.  which was a house of pleasure, and belonged to the emperors Sister, Mary Queen of Hungary. The King commanded it should be razed, and utterly defaced in a revenge of the displeasure she had done him, in burning of his Castles of Foulembray, Tragny, Baines, Reux, and Bavet. beside, many other places were taken by the French, to the utter undoing of many thousands of the poor inhabitants.  
Whilst these broils continued thus hotly between the imperials and the French, the marriage between Philip of Spain and Queen Mary of England 
The marriage of Philip king of Spain, with Marie Queen of England.  was agreed upon, and immediately after he arrived in England very nobly accompanied with the Duke of Alva, the Counts de Padille, Rigomes, Egmond, the Admiral of Castill, the marquis de Languillare, and many other great estates. The King of France seeing well enough to what end all this tended, thought it best to stand upon his guard, and to have all things in a readiness: and therefore he reviewed his armies, mustered new Soldiers, gathered money and all other necessaries, drawing his forces towards those parts that he most suspected should be invaded: and surprising many Castles and strong holds, 
The battle of Reuty.  continued his course without any interruption, until he came before Reuty, which for that it was a place of very great importance, he determined to win it, and the emperor resolved to keep it. The French having planted their siege had so bet the town, that a convenient breach was made, and they ready to give an assault: which when the emperor understood, he made all possible speed to relieve them, purposing rather to hazard his fortune, then to suffer the French to have their wills: wherefore having chosen out four thousand of his best shot, with a convenient number of pikes to back them, and about four thousand horsemen, besides four field pieces, he commanded them to march towards a wood which was near adjoining, which he coveted to take if possibly he might. The whole cavalry was led by the Duke of Savoy, and the arquebusiers by Don Fernando de Gonzaga. There marched also a battalion of Almains along by the wood side, under the conduct of Count john of Nassau, & the marshal of Cleve, which was flanked with a great Hot or squadron of Reisters, to the number of two thousand horse, under the leading of the count Vuluenfort, 
The vain brag of count Vuluenfort.  who had promised the emperor to march upon the bellies of the French Cavalry, and to trample them under his feet: at whose back were some thousand two hundred light horse, with other four field pieces. These arquebusiers were no sooner entered the wood, but they encountered four hundred French shot, between whom and the imperials there began a very hot and furious skirmish.  
The Duke of Guise who had taken upon him to keep that quarter, seeing with what courage the imperials maintained the fight, supposed they were well backed, whereupon he presently sent word to the King, that he imagined the emperor was coming with all his forces, and that there was great likelihood of a battle as that day: upon which advertisement the king forthwith arranged his troops in as warlike manner as he might, & sent word to the Guise, that if opportunity served he should accept of the journey, and he would be ready to assist him. Then began the Duke of Guise to encourage his soldiers, and to animate them with the best words he could devise: and putting himself in the front of his Regiment, waited his best opportunity to assail his enemy. In the mean while the Constable passed over a little river, with certain companies on foot, and the whole battle of the Swissers, who were wonderfully encouraged with the presence of the King, that had promised to live and die with them.  
By this time the imperials were so far advanced, that they had beaten the four hundred shot out of the wood, 
The french charge the imperials.  and appeared full in the face of the foremost battalion of the French, and being favoured by their Reisters, approached within two hundred paces of the Duke, who presently commanded to charge them. Whereupon the Duke of Nemours with his Regiment of light horse, set upon the Reisters in the front, and sent Forges the guidon of his company, and Tauannes to assail them in the Flank. So there ensued a hot and furious combat: but in the end the French were repulsed with the loss of many brave men. With which happy success the imperials were wonderfully encouraged, persuading themselves that they had gotten an entire victory. 
Count Vuluenfort overthrown.  But the Duke of Guise and Tauannes calling their troops, and joining with the Duke D' Aumale and the whole cavalry of light horse, charged the imperials afresh, and that with such fury, that the Count Vuluenfort was wholly defeated, and his Pistoliers quite overthrown, who while they hasted to save themselves, ran upon the battle of their Almains, who by that means were exceedingly disordered: so that the Duke of Nevers who was placed with his Regiment towards Reuty, espying a passage laid open, entered as it were at the breach, upon the Spanish shot, and with such resolution followed his point, that he defeated them in a moment, driving them to run towards the wood to save themselves.  
There were taken seventeen ensigns, five Cornets, and four field pieces. The French pursued their victory, and slew to the number of some six or seven hundred of these runnaways, chase them hard to their trenches. Thus did fortune still favour the French kings proceeding, and crossed the Emperor almost in all his enterprises.  
After this victory the Emperor would no more be drawn to fight, but kept himself with all his forces, emparked within his strength: which the French king perceiving, he determined to retire towards Monterell, to refresh his weary army, leaving Reuty as a thing that would not be gotten in haste: where he stayed not long but removed towards Champeigne, 
The king and the Emperor dissolve their armies.  and having fortified Bouloin, and sundry other frontier towns, broke up his Army, and licenced every man to departed: but this was no sooner known to the Emperor, but he taking the opportunity, sent his forces to spoil the frontiers of France, where there was made a piteous spoil in a short time. At length the Emperor likewise dissolved his troops, and stuffing his Towns with strong garrisons, thought it best to expect some better opportunity to accomplish his desires.  
Winter was no sooner passed, but that the French king, who was somewhat puffed up with his former victories, and finding himself grieved with new injuries, made great preparation for new broils, and for more bloody wars then before: 
The Emperor and the French K. would not be reconciled.  and understanding that the confines of France were sore annoyed with the Imperial garrisons, sent Mareschall Saint Andrew and Bourdillon with a convenient number, to stop the course of the insolent enemy, and to enterprise further as occasion should be offered. And albeit there was great means made to reconcile these two mighty potentates, yet nothing could be effected: for the french King required Naples, Milan, Burgundy, Piedmont, Navarre, and many other places: and the Emperor would part with nothing, so that the treaty being broken off, war presently ensued: for the Emperor having a power in a readiness under the leading of Martin Ronsare the bastard of Cleve, invaded the territories belonging to the Flower de Lis, burning, spoiling, and wasting in most outrageous manner: but this stormy tempest continued not long, for the imperials began to fall sick of many diseases, and to want victuals, so that they were forced to retire, having lost their general and many others of especial account. Thus did the Emperor stand still in fortune's disgrace, and nothing seemed to prosper that he took in hand, until mid August following, that she began to return her favour towards him, by giving him as it were some good words, after so many sharp and bitter checks. At which time Hansimont governor of Baupalme, 
Hansimont overthroweth the French, and taketh their general prisoner.  understanding that a great power of the French were entered into his masters territory, under the leading of La Faille, setting upon them on the sudden, slew many of them, and took La Faille prisoner, with sundry other of good account, in somuch as the imperials boasted, that they had taken the French Nobility in gross, and not by retail, and that they never weighed them, but took them upon their words.  
While the emperor and the king were thus busied in the frontiers of Picardy, their armies under the leading of the marshal Brissack and the Duke of Alva, sought to annoy each other in Piedmont. 
Casal surprised by Captain Saluoyson.  Captain Saluoyson surprised Casal in the dead of the night, being one of the strongest and best fortified places in all those quarters: wherein were taken Figuerot governor of the Town, and the Count Ladron, general of the Almains, and marvelous store of all necessary provision for the wars. Monsieur de Termes prevailed mightily in Italy, and overthrew the imperials at Senes with great slaughter and mortality: but he being called home, Strozzi was appointed Lieutenant in his place, 
Strozzi overthrown by the imperials.  who fight with the imperials was wholly defeated: and Clermont, Moulbazon, Blaise with the Colonels of the Swissers were slain, with sundry others, to the number of three hundred: and five hundred were taken prisoners.  
Thus fortune seemed to play with these two mighty Princes, and to sport herself in the interchangeable favour which she bestowed upon their armies, until winter approaching, they were forced to forsake the field, and draw their soldiers into garrisons, expecting the spring of the year to make an end of their bitter contentions.  
But the emperor now growing sickly and weak, and waxing weary with tossing and tumbling in these worldly affairs, considering the variable change and mutability to which they were subject, yielded up his kingdom of Spain, 
Charles the fift yieldeth over his empire, and betaketh himself to a monastery.  and all other his dominions, and that absolutely unto his son Philip, and spent the rest of his days in a monastery which he had builded for that purpose.  
Philip King of Spain being somewhat terrified with the rumour of the coming of the Turk, and partly solicited by his wife, who was loath to have him encumbered with the wars, was contented to hearken to a peace, which the French king refused not: whereupon, after long debating on either side, a league was concluded for five years, but it could not be kept half the time: for the Pope and his Cardinals falling at dissension, and the Spanish king taking part with the one, and the French king with the other, the wars began again afresh in It●ly between these two late reconciled enemies. 
The Pope besieged by the Spanish forces.  The Duke of Alva was sent against the triple Crown of Rome, who with the aid of the Duke of Florence, took many Castles and holds belonging to the Pope, whom they besieged within Saint Angelo. The Duke of Gu●se, though contrary to the Counsel of Ann de Memorancy, and his Cousins Olet and jasper Coligny, called Chastillon, was sent to raise the siege, who accompanied with the Dukes of Aumaille and D' Elbenfe his brothers, 
The Duke of Guise sent to raise the siege.  the Duke of Nemours, the count D' Eu, the Vidame of Chartres, and sundry other great Captains, marched forward with all possible speed, purposing to relieve the distressed Pope who was well near famished in Rome.  
While the Duke was hasting on his way, marshal Strozzi took Ostia with a Castle near adjoining belonging to the Spaniards, and likewise Vico Valerio, which was sacked, and the spoil given to the Soldiers. As soon as the Duke of Alva and the marquis of Pescara, the two chief commanders of the Spanish forces, 
The siege is raised, and the Pope set at liberty.  understood of the approach of the French, they forthwith left Rome, and retired the one towards Naples and the other towards Milan, so that now the Pope was almost set at liberty again, saving that the Duke of Florence did somewhat restrain him: but he fearing lest he should draw all the war upon himself, was willing to compound with the French, who were now grown strong in Italy, & prospered marvelously: but many thought it would not be long, for that the Spanish king made very great preparation, both to with stand the French abroad, and also for to find them occupied at home, and the rather because a third army under the leading of their Admiral Chastillon, governor of Picardy, invaded Art●oise, wasting and spoiling the Country exceedingly. Thus was the league which was so solemnly sworn, and so necessary for all Christendom, broken again by the sinister counsels of the Guise, and the wars began afresh between these two mighty Princes.  

King Philip prepareth a great army to besiege S. Quintines.  King Philip being highly discontented with the French King for so many injuries and indignities offered, having gathered a great army wherein was thirty five thousand footmen and twelve thousand horse, besides some eight thousand English, under the leading of the Earl of Pembroke, purposed to besiege Saint Quintines in Vermandoise, 
Chastillon putteth himself within S. Quintin's.  which the Admiral Chastillon suspecting, put himself within the Town with such power as he had in a readiness, and fortified it as strongly as he could: the French king likewise prepared to withstand the Spanish invasion, and having provided an host consisting of eighteen thousand footmen, Almains and French, 
The Constable sent to relieve Saint Quintin's.  and some five or six thousand horse, sent the Constable of France to front the enemy, and to keep him from entering into the fat fields of the Flower de Lis. But before this power could be in a readiness, the prince of Piedmont, general of the Spanish forces, had invested Saint Quinsines, 
Saint Quintin's besieged.  and planted his siege before the Town, which he watched so narrowly, that it was impossible for any succours to enter, without apparent danger. The Constable notwithstanding, espying a convenient time, conveyed certain troops of footmen and horsemen into the Town, under the favour of a skirmish, maintained by the Duke of Nevers, and the Prince of Condy: 
The Constable of France relieveth Saint Quintin's, and retireth.  which being performed he began to retire as not willing to hazard his fortune at that present: which at the first was not discerned by the Spanish. But after that the victuallers and pages of the French Camp perceived the retreat of their Army, and how far they were engaged, they began to run after in great haste, and with their yelling and crying, gave such evident proof to the enemy of their exceeding fear, so that the Count Egmond, 
Count Egmond chargeth the Constable.  who first discovered the French dismarch, having advertised the prince, commanded the trumpets to sound Dedans, dedans, and with two thousand horse charged them on the side. The Count Henry and Ernest of Brunswick, each of them having a thousand, being backed with the Count Horn, who hasted on with great fury, did likewise assail them at one instant, who in their retiring turning head, received them with equal valour.  
While the French were thus assailed in the flank, the Count of Mansfeild, Dostrate, and Gueldres, with three thousand horse ran upon them in the front, and that with such a furious feast, that having overthrown their foremost rank, the rest were soon defeated and compelled to fly away. 
The Constable is overthrown and taken prisoner with a great number of the French Nobility.  john of Bourbon Duke of Angolesme was dismounted at the first encounter, and being horsed again, was slain at the second. Francis de la Tour viscount of Turin, Saint Gelais and above a hundred and twenty Gentlemen of good account, beside six hundred common soldiers died at that battle. The Constable being wounded in the hips, was taken prisoner and brought to the Prince, and so were the Dukes of Montpensier, the marshal Saint Andrew, Lewis prince of Manfona, the Ringrave Rochfaucont, Saint Heran, Burdillon, Movy, Montsales, and many other of the Nobility of great reckoning and reputation. There were also above three hundred Gentlemen of Mark taken prisoners, and many of the footmen being slain, the rest were taken to mercy, and driven away by troops, as if they had been flocks of sheep, and presented to King Philip with their ensigns and colours, as monuments of his glorious and triumphant victory.  
The King of France was wonderfully astonished with this overthrow, and the rather for that Paris (the chief City of his Realm) seemed to be straightly terrified, that sundry of the principal Citizens began to fly, 
The great fear of the Parisians after the overthrow at S. Quintin's.  and to withdraw themselves towards the uttermost bounds of the land, fearing the coming of the enemy, who had now liberty to do what he listed. Howbeit having borrowed thirty thousand pounds of the Parisians, he presently hired fourteen thousand Swissers, and sent to the Duke of Guise, who was in Italy, to repair into France with all expedition, and to bring with him all the forces he could make. Thus was the King driven to an exigent, and he who not long before had sent the Guise to annoy other men, was now glad to call him home again to defend himself, 
The Hugonots took their name of a gate in the City of Tours, called Hugon, because th●se of the reformed religion being greatly persecuted, did many times in the night assemble near that gate, where they had preaching and other exercises, so that in the beginning in the way of mockage they they were called Hugonots: which name being carried from one to another, at length became a common name, and used of all sorts.  who stood almost in a desperate state, and lay open to the invasion of his enemies. In the mean time the King was earnestly busied in gathering of another Army, sending out his proclamations into all quarters, fortifying Paris, and appointing the Duke of Nevers (who by great hap escaped at Saint Quintin's,) to be his Lieutenant, and to impeach the enemy from entering any further into France.  
The number of those who were called 
* The Hugonots persecuted in France.  Hugonots began to increase, and were dispersed in a manner over all the land, and because the affairs of the state went thus backward, & almost nothing prospered that was taken in hand, one of the principal men about the king, persuaded him that God was angry and punished the land, for that such sects and heresies (as they termed them) were suffered to increase and multiply in a manner without controlment, and that the King to pacify the wrath of GOD, must take a more severe course in punishing such as were offenders herein, who had been the principal means to pull down the wrath of God upon the King, and the whole Land. Whereupon there immediately ensued horrible cruelties towards the poor Hugonots, and infinite multitudes were put to death in a short time, so that the rage of persecution grew very great, supposing thereby as by an expiation, to turn away the hand of the almighty, which was so heavy upon France: but they were exceedingly deceived herein, for by applying a wrong medicine, the disease daily increased, and God seeing them wilfully repugn his truth, augmented their sorrows more and more: for the Prince of Piedmont did now more narrowly besiege Saint Quintin's then before, and having strongly fortified his Camp, and stored himself with all convenient necessaries for to maintain the siege, raised his mounts and planted 45. pieces of great ordinance, wherewith he battered the walls in most furious manner.  

‡ The Admiral would not hearken to a composition.  The admiral who was a very valiant, politic and wise chieftain, would not hearken to any composition, but repairing the breaches, resolved to keep the place in despite of the enemy: the Prince on the other side plied the battery, and having with much ado made a sufficient breach, disposed his bands, and gave order for the assault: the first place was assigned to Captain Cazares master of the Camp, and to Lazaro Colonel of fifteen hundred Almains. The second to Captain Navarre, with certain bands of Spaniards, and to count Meigue, with his Wallones, the third to julian Romero with 3. ensigns of Spaniards, & 2000 English: and the fourth to captain Carronnellet, with 3. ensigns of of Burgonians, all which being in a readiness valiantly approached the walls. 
Saint Quintin's taken by assault.  The Admiral had likewise determined how to receive the enemy, and putting himself into that place where he supposed most danger, with great hardiness expecting the coming of the Spaniards: but there was not the like resolution on all hands, for the soldiers being discouraged with the late overthrow, and the inhabitants being timorous, as men not accustomed to such dangers, made small resistance, so that the enemy entered at his pleasure, which when the admiral to his unspeakable grief beheld, he was enforced to seek to save himself, by yielding to a common soldier, 
The admiral yieldeth himself to a common soldier.  who brought him to captain Cazares, by whom he was led prisoner to the prince. Dandelot his brother was likewise taken, but he found the means to escape by a desperate adventure, to recover his liberty. Irnac. S. Remy. La Gardiner, Cuzneux, Moulins, Bruell, Bretanie, Rambou●llet. S. Romain, S. Andre, Linieres, & Soleil, did likewise remain prisoners. Fayet le jaune, Sallevert, Oger, Vignes, lafoy Bar, Estang, Gourds, and many other brave men were slain. The whole town was sacked, and spoiled, and a marvelous mass of wealth gotten, and carried into the low countries.  
The French king, was all this while providing his forces, and devising by what means he might best make head against his enemy, fearing indeed the Prince would follow his good fortune, and proceed further into France, by reason that he had sent the Count of Frembarg with 1000 horse, and 3. regiments of lansquenets, containing 14. ensigns, & 20. pieces of battery, to besiege castelet, a place of very great strength: yet was it soon taken by the enemy, the French not daring to abide the Canon, so exceedingly were they affrighted with their former losses. In the midst of all these mischiefs, there fell out one thing which turned to the great advantage of the French king, 
A mutiny in the Spanish camp.  and brought no small hindrance to the Spanish king's proceed, and that was the mutiny among the Almains and Spaniards, who falling at dissension about their booties and spoils gotten at S. Quintin's, & the ransoms of their prisoners, were the occasion of much trouble and tumult in the army. Which when the French king understood, he practised in such manner with sundry of the Almain captains, that their oath being expired with King Philip, they were contented to be reclaimed by him, and to serve against the enemies of the Flower de Lis.  
By this time was the Duke of Guise come out of Italy, and being made the King's Lieutenant, was sent with a strong power toward Amiens, with a secret commandment to enterprise against Calais, if occasion served. The duke finding the town slenderly provided, suddenly planted his siege about it, 
The duke of Guise besiegeth Calais & winneth it.  and that in the midst of winter. And first assailed a fort called Nieulay, which was easily gained. From thence he sent part of his army along the downs to Risebank, which he likewise took without any great resistance. The duke having gotten two principal places, & that in one day, planted his battery against the town, wherein was governor the L. Wentworth: who seeing the unexpected success of the French, & how fortune favoured the D. in all his designs, disposed of all things as well as he might, and endeavoured to remove the French out of their trenches: but that was impossible, for the duke was so strongly fortified, and had gotten such places of advantage, that he could not be forced by any means whatsoever. The duke having planted 15. Canons, began his battery against the old castle, & that with great fury. And for that the walls were ruinous, & easy to be pierced, the breach was soon made, & assault given, but the French were repulsed at the first, with the loss of their forwardst men: notwithstanding they being encouraged with their former success, continued their enterprise, and at last gained the Castle, which the Duke did forthwith cause to be strongly fortified. This was a very great loss to the English, for that from thence the French might shoot into the town at their pleasure  
Now was Calais narrowly besieged, and all passages were stopped in such sort, that it was impossible to convey in any succours, or to send forth any to give advertisement of the distressed estate of the inhabitants. Which when the Lord Wentworth perceived, and how that for want of necessaries, he was not able to keep the town any longer, he was content to parley with the Duke, and to yield upon composition. Whereto the Duke of Guise willingly assented: so that after much debating on either side the town was yielded upon condition, 
Calais yielded to the D. of Guise.  that the inhabitants might safely departed without impeachment whither they listed, and the lord Wentworth with diverse others to the number of fifty of the chiefest, to remain prisoners.  
Thus was Calais in less than seven days recovered by the French (which had been besieged by Edward the third, king of England, by the space of a whole year, and which had remained in the English men's hands for the space of 210. years) to the incredible joy of the French. And as it was lost under Ph●lip of Valois the French King: so was it regained by the French, in the time of Philip king of England. The duke following his good fortune, did forthwith besiege Guines, wherein commanded the valiant lord Grace, who albeit he did stoutly hold out for a time, abiding the planting of the Canon, and a furious assault, yet was he forced in the end to yield, and to resign his office to another man. Which when the garrison of Hams understood, they abandoned the fort, & withdrew themselves to a place of greater security. The French king was not a little joyful to hear these news: wherefore longing to see that, which he had so often wished and desired, he posted presently to visit his new conquered town: whither he was no sooner come, but that he gave order for the repairing and fortifying thereof, and leaving Monsieur de Thermes governor, withdrew himself again towards Paris, commanding the Guise to besiege Herbemont, a place of some importance: which was yielded at the first summance. Thus did fortune begin to turn her countenance towards the French, and as it were alternatively, and by course favour the King's desigments.  
The French K: intending to prosecute his wars against the Spaniards, thought it good policy to strengthen himself with some foreign alliance and therefore contrived a marriage between Mary the young Queen of Scots, and Francis the Dolphin of France. 
Francis the Dolphin of France marrieth Marie Queen of Scots.  Which marriage was solemnized at Paris, in most royal and magnificent manner, the 14. of April 1558. About which time there began some motion to be made, as touching a peace between Spain & France. The principal procurer whereof was the Lady Duchess and dowager of Lorraine; and cousin to King Philip. But by reason of sundry impeachments, there was nothing effected: so that the French king having all things in a readiness, sent the Duke of Guise, accompanied with the Dukes of Nevers, & Nemours, the Marshal Strozzi, and Bourdillon, with a great power to besiege Theonuille. Who making their approaches, raised their mounts, planting their Ordinance, and beat the town with 35. pieces of artillery. Which when Count Horn understood, he marched thither in the dead of the night, with certain old bands of Spaniards, purposing to force the Corpse de guard of the enemies: But the Count being not able to effect that which he desired, by reason he found the French very strongly encamped, was forced to retire with loss of many of his men.  
The Duke still plied his battery, 
The 〈…〉 Guise ●●●geth Theoville.  and for that he could not well discern whether the breach were reasonable or not, & what flankers remained to endamage the assailants: as also to see the countenances and resolution of the besieged, sent about midnight five hundred of his most hardy and best experienced soldiers, under the conduct of Cipierre S. Estef, Mellas, Sarlabos, and jaques, to give a false assault, with express commandment not to advance further, then only to discover the breach, unless they should be drawn thereto by some apparent advantage: who approaching the walls, and crying, scale, scale, as though they would have given a general assault, so terrified those who guarded the breach, that part of them shrinking away for fear, and the rest not able to resist, gave leave to the French to ascend to the top of the Rampart, and had the soldiers followed their leaders, with equal courage, the town had been gained at that instant. But the alarm being given, the French were soon repulsed, with the loss of many of their principal and most forward men: the besieged were much dismayed with this unlooked for accident, and the remembrance of their manifold wants made them to doubt of the sequel of the siege, whereupon Caderobbe who was governor of the town, knowing he was not able to hold out for any long time, sent a trumpet to demand a parley, offering to yield upon reasonable conditions: which when the Duke had assented unto, and the articles were fully agreed upon, the place was given up the 22. of june 1558. unto the French, who entered with great triumphs, and repairing the battered walls, made them as defensible as they could.  
This and the like prosperous success somewhat cheered the French nation, and made their name seem terrible to the Spaniards, who had for a time been exceedingly crossed in most of their affairs. But now the world began to change, & fortune which is ever instable, frowned upon the French, 
First of November.  by crossing the designs of Monsieur de Termes, the captain of Calais. Who desirous to do some especial service for his late preferment, invaded the confines of Flanders, with an army of 9000. footmen, & 1500. horse, and by an assault took Dunkirk, 
Monsieur de Termes invadeth the low countries  leaving graveling on his back, with a purpose to enterprise against that also if opportunity served, and so passed forth hard unto Newport, cruelly wasting with fire and sword, whatsoever was in his way. For the repressing of whose furious and barbarous rage, Count Egmond assembled a power of 12000. on foot, and 3000. horsemen: of whose approach when Terms was ascertained by his espials, he began to retire with all speed, being indeed not able to encounter with so strong and resolute an enemy: wherefore using the benefit of a low water, he marched away in the dead of the night along by the sea, hoping to deceive the count, and to free himself from the danger of the Dutch. But the count Egmond understanding of the retreat of the French, suspecting that they hasted to get out of his hands, crossed the country by a nearer way, and put himself between them and home, meeting them in the front not far from graveling. He was no sooner in view of the enemy, but he caused the signal to be given, 
Count Egmont overthroweth de Terms, and taketh him prisoner.  & like a general of surpassing courage, went resolutely to the charge. The French who stood in a desperate state, received the shot with equal valour: and at the first seemed to have the better, committing marvelous slaughter with their great Ordinance upon the foremost ranks of the Burgonians, whom when the French saw so broken and dismembered, supposing the day had been theirs, they cried out victory, victory. But this acclamation lasted not long: for the Count Egmond arriving with a great Hot of Reisters, and Flemings, so furiously charged the French lances, that they were wholly defeated and overthrown.  
Amids these bloody broils happened a strange chance: 
A strange chance.  for at the same time, certain English ships passing by, and descrying this encounter, made towards the shore, and with their shot beat the flanks of the French army, which on this side lay open to a full battery: wherewith they being sore dismayed, and not able to endure the fight any longer, turned their backs and fled amain. There were some 1500. slain in that place. And the greatest number of such as escaped, were killed by the boors and women of the country who made havoc of as many as fell into their hands. Monsieur de Termes, D'annebault, Senarpont, Meruilliers, & sundry others of the principal captains remained prisoners. Moreover they lost all their Ordinance, ensigns, munition, bag and baggage, and all their rich booties which they had gotten in Flanders. This sinister chance did not a little vex the French King, who fearing a further mischief if it were not timely prevented, sent forth presently for his Bannes & Arierbannes, 
The French K. mustreth new forces.  with a strait commandment to all his ordinance and men of arms, to assemble themselves at Pierreport in as warlike manner as might be, there to attend his further pleasure, and to be in a readiness to be employed as occasion should be offered.  
King Philip of Spain, had likewise gathered a very strong power, and all things were provided by these two mighty monarch, as though they meant to determine all their controversies by some one cruel & bloody battle. But God who ruleth the hearts of princes, disposed of their intentions far otherwise then their blind affections led them. For upon the sudden, their hard hearts began to be mollified, and each party inclined to peace: so that the place being appointed, and the deputies on both sides agreed upon, they met about the midst of October following at Cercam, between Artoys and Pycardy. There were many complaints on both sides, and a commemoration of sundry indignities offered on either part. Each defended others doings, neither was there any likelihood of better agreement: so that after many contentious words, their assembly broke up, without any conclusion for peace: and yet, for that winter approached, & the soldiers were not able to keep the field, 
Peace concluded between France and Spain.  both princes dissolved their armies, and licensed their men of war to repose themselves until the next year. But before that time, by reason of new occurrences, there was a general peace proclaimed between these two nations, & each linked with other with very straight alliances: For King Philip (whose wife Mary Queen of England was lately deceased) was contented to take in marriage Elizabeth the eldest daughter of Henry the French King, and Pilebert Emmanuel duke of Savoy, was affianced unto madame Margaret his sister: so that by reason of these new conjunctions, there ensued much quietness to all Christendom, but especially to these two kingdoms, who now had made an end of all their quarrels & contentions, and seemed to study of nothing but how they might honour and solemnize in most royal manner these new marriages.  
There was exceeding sumptuous preparation against the appointed time: all the Nobility of France were assembled at Paris, to attend the king, & to honour these espousals. The lady Elizabeth was conducted by the king her father to our Lady Church at the day prefixed in most pompous and stately manner, and there married by the Cardinal of Bourbon, to the Duke of Alva, was who constituted Procurator of the king of Spain his master. 
The Duke of Alva marrieth the French kings daughter for his master the king of Spain.  There were all the princes of the blood attending in their order, and many chief Prelates, and all the officers of the crown. The Duke of Alva was accompanied with the Prince of Orange, Count Egmond, and sundry other very honourable personages. The marriage being finished, there was exceeding feasting, banqueting, and cheering, with dancing, masking, and all other pastimes that could be imagined, both to delight the eye and please the ear. The king rejoiced to see his daughter so honourably advanced: the Nobility and commonalty were marvelously glad to remember what ease, peace, and tranquillity they should enjoy by this new affinity: and all sorts seemed to triumph, hoping there would be a perpetual league and corespondency between these two Nations: but now behold a woeful mishap and lamentable mischance, wherewith all this mirth and jollity was turned into weeping, wailing, and great sorrow: so interchangeably do these two accompany each other, & so certainly do they follow one another. The French king, who had been the principal challenger at tilt, assisted by the Duke of Guise, Alphonse the Prince of Ferrara, and the Duke of Nemours, having borne himself very nobly that day, and broken many staves to his great honour and high commendation, would needs in the end run a course with count De Montgommery a valiant gentleman of France: who at the first refusing, 
The French King slain with running a course at ●●lt.  yet commanded by the king accepted the condition, and offered so freely, that their staves flying in pieces, some of the shivers getting in at the sight of the beaver, pierced into the king's head, & grievously wounded him, that he died within eleven days after, to the immeasurable grief of his subjects, after he had reigned twelve years, three months, and ten days.   

CHAP. VI  
Francis the second the French King. The Guise's authors of all the confusion in France. The Guises join with the Queen mother against the King of Navarre. The King of Navarre yieldeth to the Queen mother. The Duke of Guise made Lieutenant for the King, and Henry Cardinal of Lorraine, made L. Treasurer of France. They incense the King against the princes of the blood. The enterprise of the Lord of Renaudie. The hatred of the Guises towards the three chastillon's. The Prince of Conde being discontented, goeth from the Court. The order of the States of France. The Admiral presenteth the supplication of the Hugonots to the king. The Prince of Conde committed to prison, and is condemned to die. The death of the King.  
THe Kingdom of France had for many years together, been very well acquainted with the variable and changeable estate of unpleasant fortune, and under Charles the eight, Lewis the twelfth, Francis the first, and Henry the second, had by woeful experience found, how subject the most flourishing estates, kingdoms & commonwealths are to a continual change and alteration: and therefore having by long observation perfectly learned, that the best means to maintain herself in her wont grandeur and glory, was to be leagued with her neighbour Countries, and to be at peace and unity at home, began to have a flexible heart, and to incline to quietness as much as might be: so that having ended all quarrels, and buried all wrongs and indignities in the pit of oblivion, and by a near conjunction with the Spaniard her ancient and mighty enemy, (in the opinion of most men) procured herself a perpetual peace, began as it were, to clap her hands for joy, and seriously to triumph in so incomparable a benefit. But the fatal and inevitable mishap of this most noble kingdom, which had flourished for so many hundred years, and had been the paragon of her neighbour nations, could not (as it seemeth) be avoided, but that it must needs take place, and wanting foreign enemies to work her overthrow, must needs hatch a viperous brood, which by gnawing out the belly of their own mother, have most unnaturally sought the destruction of her, who have most tenderly fostered and brought them up.  

The house of Guise, the principal cause of all the stirs in France.  The principal cause to produce so lamentable an effect, and the only means in a manner to hatch so horrible a mischief, was the immeasurable ambition of that haughty and aspiring house of Guise: who albeit they were strangers, and no natural French men, yet fortune so favoured their attempts, and made some of them so gracious with their sovereigns, that they did not only contend for the superiority with the greatest Princes of the blood, but at length (as ambition hath never any end) strived with their liege Lords, and through their rebellious counsels and most traitorous plots, assisted by a multitude of Guysards and Hispaniolized French, drove their sovereign Lord out of his chief City: and not contented to offer so great indignity to so mighty a potentate, never left practising, until they had most wickedly murdered him, whose life in all duty should have been unto them more precious than their own: and with their devilish sorceries, have so bewitched and sotted sundry of the French nation, that at this day, to their perpetual shame and ignominy, they will not be reduced unto any dutiful obedience under their most lawful and liege Lord.  

Francis Duke of Guise, and Charles Cardinal of Lorraine, the two firebrands of France.  One of the most notorious plotters of so many mischiefs, was Francis Duke of Guise, who with his brother Charles Cardinal of Lorraine (as proud, subtle, and as ambitious a prelate as ever was) grew to that height, through the benefit of their good fortune, that they commanded all France, and brought the greatest Princes of that nation to be their underlings: and by reason of a marriage between Francis the second, with Marry the young Queen of Scots their niece, they bore themselves so loftly, and so eagerly strove to advance their house, that they turned all France topsy-turvy, so changing the government and altering the state, that it seemed in a short time to be a mere Chaos, and confusion. For after the death of Henry the second, and that Francis his son was crowned King, these two so craftily handled the matter, that joining with Katherine de Medici's, the Queen mother of France, (who contrary to the ancient laws and ordinances of that Realm, which permit not women to rule, sought to have the government of the young King, and to exclude Henry of Bourbon King of Navarre, and chief Prince of the blood) after infinite troubles to themselves, and unspeakable misery to their own Country, they got the government into their hands, and swayed every thing after their own like.  
And albeit the state of that kingdom had begun long before to be much afflicted, and through the horrible persecutions of those whom they termed Hugonots, marvelously decayed and weakened, by reason of a secret division bred in the hearts of infinite multitudes, who once dissenting in Religion, could never after well agree in matters of state: yet was the land at peace within itself, and every one seemed to be enclinable to their prince's pleasure, choosing rather to endure any affliction, then by seeking to defend their lives and liberties by force of arms, to bring in any intestine wars, the most devouring plague and sharpest punishment of all other: but after that the house of Guise began to rule, and that their factious devices cloaked with a zeal of maintaining the Catholic cause, had once stirred the coals, the flame presently broke forth, and finding convenient matter to nourish it withal, spread itself in a short time over the face of the whole kingdom of France, to the consuming of infinite multitudes of all sorts, and the extreme impoverishing of the whole land.  
There were sundry and divers means to hasten this so wonderful and lamentable alteration in France, but the principal of all other, was the unexpected death of t e late King, 
The Queen mother, the King of Navarre and the Duke of Guise, contend for the government during the nonage of the King.  who albeit he very severely punished all such as were accounted Protestants, and that principally at the instigation of the house of Guise, yet did he so politicly carry himself, that during his reign, he kept that ambitious monster in some reasonable good order, and the whole land from tumult and rebellion: but he was no sooner dead, but that all things began to hasten to a confusion, and the whole common wealth to be dangerously infected with sundry fearful diseases, the original whereof arose in this manner.  
In the beginning of the reign of Francis the second, being but sixteen years old, there grew a controversy between Katherine de Medici's the King's mother, Henry of Bourbon King of Navarre, and Francis of Lorraigne, Duke of Guise, touching the government of the young King during his nonage. The Queen-mother alleged many reasons to strengthen her claim, as the laws of Nature, which would that the mother should have the bringing up of her children, as one having a most tender care over them, and most willing of all others to do them good, the customs and usages of sundry nations, and the ancient order of the land, which made the mother guardian of her child: and so by consequent gave her the Regency of the kingdom. The king of Navarre on the contrary affirmed, that he ought in right to be governor of the young king, for that he was the next Prince of the blood, and nearest of kin unto him: beside that there were fundamental laws of that nation, which did not only shut out all strangers, (by whom he understood the house of Lorraine and of Guise): but also disabled the Queen mother, by reason of her sex, which the Salic law did expressly exclude from all regency, and succession to the Crown. The Duke of Guise had also divers reasons for the advancing of his own title, as that he was the kings uncle: that by his service the whole state had been in a manner maintained, and the land from sundry imminent perils delivered. Besides he excepted in a sort against the king of Navarre: for that he and his brother the Prince of Condy, gave evident tokens of their liking of the Gospel, and their hatred of the Romish Religion: so that if Navarre should have the government of the King, it was to be feared (said he) that the whole land would fall into heresy.  
Thus did these three contend with might and main for the superiority, each of them devising all the reasons they could imagine for the furtherance of their cause.  
But in the end, the Queen Mother, and the Duke of Guise doubting that they should not be able nor sufficient to prevail, and also fearing lest that the King of Navarre (by reason of the great pre-eminence and authority that the princes of the blood should by right have, besides his just title) should in the end prevail and get the better against them both, thought it best to join together against the King of Navarre, 
The Queen mother, and D. of Guise, join together against Navarre.  and either by force, or by policy and fair means to win him unto their wills, and by some devise or other to make him surcease from his just claim, and interest.  
The better to effect this, the Duke of Guise seized upon the king, whom he conducted and brought to the Lowre in Paris, with the young Princes his Brethren, and with the two Queens, leaving the Princes of the blood, the Constable, the Mareschall, the Admiral, and sundry other noble and great personages attending upon the dead Corpse of the late king Henry.  
When they had prevailed in their purpose thus far, then was there such watch and ward kept about the King, that no man might speak unto him, but in the presence of some of the Guyses: and the matter was so well handled in the end, that the Cardinal and the Duke of Guise ruled and governed all things, and had the king in a manner at their will and commandment.  
Then began they to bring into the king's Council men of their own faction, and to procure the kings displeasure unto such as they disliked. The rulers and governors of the Cities, Towns, and Provinces were at their appointment: the Princes of the blood were employed in business far from the Court.  
The Prince of Conde was sent into Flanders to treat of the league made between France and Spain: the king of Navarre, the Cardinal of Bourbon, and the Prince De la Roch sur Yon were sent to conduct the king's Sister into Spain.  
There were many devices and fetches to move the king of Navarre to give over his claim and title which he made to the Regency of the young King, and many fair promises were procured out of Spain, conditionally that he would so do.  

The proud letters of the K. of Spain.  And among others there were letters sent to that purpose, wherein the Spanish king promised that if he would be ruled herein, he would restore him the kingdom of Navarre, of which he held nothing but the title averring further, & that very imperiously, & with threatening words, that if he did otherwise, he would take upon him the protection of his brother in law himself, and spend all that ever he had, yea, his own life and the lives of forty thousand others, whom he had in a readiness in maintaining the quarrel.  
Thus partly with fair promises, and partly with threats, the King of Navarre began to be cold, and in a manner quiet, and clean to give over the matter. 
The king of Navarre giveth over his claim.  When the Guise perceived this, than did he proceed further, having the countenance of the young King, and being backed so strongly with the Spanish king, so that now he put out and in whom he listed, 
The pride of Guise.  and encroached upon the offices of other men▪ he would not stick to meddle with the constableship and great master of France, arrogating that unto himself which of right belonged unto others. The high courts of Parliament were full of his followers, and whom soever he suspected not to favour his designs, these were by some one sinister information or other, presently disgraced, insomuch as those few good men that were in place, considering the rough handling, and severe usage of sundry well affected persons, and the small good that ensued by complaining unto the King were content to be silent, and not to meddle in such dangerous times.  
The Cardinal of Guise was appointed over the King's finances: the Duke of Guise hi● brother was made Lieutenant general, 
The Card●nall of Guise made Lord treasurer, and the duke his brother Lieutenant general for the King.  and had the direction of all matters appertaining unto the wars, and all Captains, governors of towns, and other officers were commanded to obey him, as the King himself. Thus had these two gotten the sole authority into their hands, and although the Queen mother was at the first the means to procure them so great place, and to make them so near about the king, yet not long after she repent her thereof, and sought many ways to curb them, and to keep them as short as she might: yet she being a most uncertain and inconstant woman, and ever inclining to the worst, still rather held with them, then with the princes of the blood, who began to wax weary of the intolerable pride of the Guise, and the burning, murdering, and injurious dealing of that bloody house. The Guise no sooner suspected that their hearts were alienated, but that he studied day and night how to overthrow them, and to cause the King to imbrue his hands in the blood of his own kindred. While these mischiefs were thus in plaiting, and many outrageous parts played tending to the strengthening of this factious house, and the utter overthrow of the ancient Nobility of France, infinite multitudes grew marvelous discontented, and both by word and writing showed their mislike of the present government, exclaiming against the sore persecutions of those of the reformed Religion, and the intolerable wrongs and injuries offered unto sundry of the Kings best affected subjects.  
There were many supplications presented unto the Queen mother, to the King of Navarre, and others of greatest place & authority, 
The Guise setteth the King against the princes of the blood.  tending to the reformation of these miseries, but they were little or nothing regarded: for the Queen mother favoured not the Protestants in her heart, though often in the beginning made some show thereof, and gave some help to the persecuted Hugonots. The King of Navarre was timorous, and would not prosecute the cause with such a courage as he ought to have done: beside, he was besotted with the persuasions of regaining the kingdom of Navarre, if he would still remain a Catholic: which conceived hope so stack in his mind and made so deep an impression in the bottom of his heart, that of a zealous and earnest professor, he became key cold, and in the end proved a bitter enemy to the cause: so that the Guyses did still what they listed, and no redress was to be expected, for new Edicts & proclamations were made, & those more severe than before: such as were known or suspected to be Protestants, were apprehended, & either forced to recant, or else were burned. This barbarous usage of so many natural Frenchmen, & outrageous cruelty towards all sorts, bred by little & little a commiseration in the hearts of sundry, in whom there remained some sparks of humanity, so that banding together & opposing themselves against the proceed of that time, they endeavoured by all possible means to reform the common wealth, & reduce the decayed estate to some better order: and albeit that sundry personages had showed their liking of a reformation, as the K. of Navarre, the Prince of Conde, the constable, the Admiral, Dandelot, & many others, yet no man attempted, but strained courtesy (as it were) who should begin: which procrastinating sundry of good place not being able to endure any longer, combined themselves together, having for the principal and ringleader of their actions, one called Godfray de Berry, Lord of Renaudy, 
The Lord of Renaudy with sundry others attempt against the Guise.  a wise, valiant & well experienced Gentleman, who notwithstanding the advise of six counsellors, and 20. captains, might not attempt any thing.  
This company consisting of mere politics in the beginning, and such as sought for nothing but a reformation in the common weal, were in process of time assisted by a multitude of those who were termed Hugonots (as it is the manner of discontented persons, how different so ever the occasion be, to join together in hope of fortunes accidents) who allied themselves with the rest, the more willingly, for that it was in a civil cause, and such a thing as tended to the honour of the King, and general good of the whole state.  
Monsieur de Renaudy having acquainted many of good account with this great and weighty enterprise, as the Baron Chastellnaw, Captain Mazeres, Vaillay, Bressay, Chesnay, Chiray, S. Marry, Coqueville, Chateaunef, and sundry others, resolved with all possible speed in as close and secret manner as might be, to draw near the Court, which was then at Amboyse, and on the sudden with some five hundred Gentlemen, 
The enterprise of the Lord of Renaudy discovered.  to seize upon the Guise and the Cardinal of Lorraine his Brother, and having once caught them to put them to death for an exemplary punishment to all other seducers of the King, and disturbers of the common wealth. This enterprise could not be so closely kept but that it came to the ears of the Guyses: who understanding after sundry examinations, the drift and scope of the whole project, and how that most of those who had complotted together, had long since shaken off the Pope's yoke, devised strait to publish so notable a conspiracy, and to make it seem as odious as might be to the eyes of all men: they declared how that they of the reformed Religion had conspired against the king, the Queen mother, the king's brethren and Princes of the blood, & sought to bring in their doctrine by force, to overthrow the monarchy of France, and to reduce it to a popular estate and government, and by depriving the king of his crown, to pull down the church, to root out the ancient Catholic faith, & to infect the whole land with all kind of impiety and irreligion, and having by sundry proclamations declared the heinousness of the fact, fearing that a matter of such consequence was not attempted without the privity of some great ones in the land: they fortified themselves very strongly, mustered soldiers, gathered forces, and got all things in a readiness, to withstand any attempt that should be made upon the sudden.  
Being thus provided, they forthwith apprehended such as they suspected, and proceeded against them with all rigour. Many of them who were taken were executed, and the rest committed to several prisons, saving some few that by their good fortune escaped their hands. At length divers of the meaner sort were set at liberty, fearing (indeed) that if all should be punished, so great severity would alienate the hearts of many, who were nothing well affected already. And although that the King of Navarre, the Prince of Conde, the Admiral nor Dandelot could be charged with the maintaining or abetting of any of these attempts, yet did the Guyses strongly suspect them, and especially the three Chattillons, 
The three Chattillons of all other most hated the Guyses.  whom of all other they feared most: notwithstanding, they thought it good policy to give them fair speeches for the time, and to entertain them in all plausible manner, until they had gotten their forces about them, and had provided a strong army in a readiness: which was no sooner performed, but they began to speak big words, and to deal more roughly: and first of all they dealt with the Prince of Conde, who was commanded not to departed the Court without licence, while in the mean time they practised to catch matter against him, and to that purpose sundry with fair promises and rewards were suborned to prove him the chief of that seditious tumult at Amboyse. They daily whispered in the King's ear, 
The Guyses incense the King against the Prince of Conde.  that so long as Conde were at liberty, and suffered to countenance such as already were discontented with the present government, the whole land would never be at quiet, nor the king's person in safety, as appeared by the last rebellious and tumultuous practice. The only way to prevent so many and so great mischiefs, was to bring the Prince to his answer, and by apprehending the ringleaders, to keep the meaner sort in order and due obedience. Whereupon the king being by these sinister informations mightily incensed against the Prince, commanded La Trousse, the steward of his house, to attach sundry of his servants and to have them in safe keeping, and to command the prince himself to come unto his presence the next morrow: and to the end there might be some matter found against him, his house was searched, and all his papers ransacked: the Guyses had also sent to search the Chamber and study of the king of Navarre's Secretary, hoping that something would be found to minister matter against these great personages: for now they might do what they listed, seeing the king approved whatsoever they did, and did speak as it were with their tongues.  
As soon as the Prince was informed of the king's pleasure, 
The Prince of Conde brought before the king.  he readily obeyed, and coming before him, did so clear himself, and answered with such courage and alacrity, that it was thought good to dismiss him for that present, without any further trial: whereupon the king showed him very good countenance, and the Guyses seeing the time served not to accomplish what they had purposed, cloaked all in as covert manner as might be, and each departed from other as good friends. But the Prince seeing his life was sought for, thought it wisdom to look to himself, and for that long since he favoured the Gospel, he supposed it to be best to go to his brother the King of Navarre, 
The Prince of Conde leaveth the court and goeth to the King of Navarre.  where he should be out of all danger, and might use his conscience freely. Many wondered at this strange dealings with the Princes of the blood, saying, that if they could not live without peril of their lives, that it would shortly come to pass, that all true and natural Frenchmen should be accounted enemies, and no man be in security but the house of Guise and Lorraine, who being but strangers themselves, durst notwithstanding attempt such practices against the kings best affected subjects, as were in no sort to be endured. Hereupon great rumours were raised, and infinite multitudes grew grieved with these injurious proceed.  
To prevent the mischiefs that might ensue hereof, the Queen mother with the rest of the King's council, sought by amiable letters and smooth words, to content such as most complained, and where they did fear most danger, thither did they send such as were most gracious with the people, to keep them in their obedience. The Admiral, who for his wisdom, integrity, and experience in all politic affairs, was not inferior to any of that age, was sent into Normandy, 
The Admiral sent into Normandy to pacify the Country,  where there was thought to be the greatest number of discontented persons, with a strait commandment to consider of all good means, for the quiet of the land, and freely to signify unto the court, the occasions of their dislike, and the best way how to reform those things which were amiss: 
The cause of the discontentment in France.  which he from time to time very faithfully performed, advertising the Queen mother, that the cruel handling of those of the reformed Religion, and the injurious dealing with all such as seemed to favour them, or any ways to countenance them, and that under an unlawful authority, usurped by strangers, without the approbation of the Princes of the blood, and the chief officers of the land, and that while the King was in his minority, to the great prejudice of the Realm and dishonour to the Crown of France, was the cause of so many mischiefs, and was like still to draw on more dangerous consequents, if there were not some speedy course taken to prevent them. Many such advertisements were sent from all quarters, and sundry evident signs appeared of civil wars. Whereupon it was thought good to assemble all the Princes of the blood, the Nobility, the officers of the Crown, and all men of place and authority, to devise of the means how to pacify these troubles, which were likely to ensue: which when the Guyses understood, albeit they liked not to hear of the assembly of the States, 
The assembly of the States.  and therefore inwardly hated this motion of the Admiral and the Chancellor, from whom it especially proceeded, yet were they outwardly contented therewith, hoping by this means to draw the King of Navarre, the Prince of Conde, the constable and others to the Court, who otherwise could not so easily be come by, and then to rule them well enough: assuring themselves that the greatest multitude of the Knights of the order, and others of the Nobility which should be there assembled, were at their devotion, and therefore that nothing could pass in prejudice of them, but rather that all should tend to their further profit and advancement. This resolution being taken, sommonances were sent into all quarters, and particular letters written to the king of Navarre, to request him to come to the Parliament, which was assigned at Fountainbleau, & to bring his brother the Prince of Conde with him. 
The treacherous cou●se●● of Descari & Bouchart.  But when the Guises had with more maturity of judgement considered of this weighty subject, fearing that if Navarre, Conde, and the Constable, with all their adherents should meet together, they should be overmatched, and not be able to make their party good, they practised with Descars the Lord Chamberlain, & Bouchart the Chancellor, two of Navarre's principal servants, and those indeed upon whose counsels he principally relied, corrupting them with great sums, and promising them mountains, if they would use the means to dissuade the K. their master from that assembly. Which two, put so many suspicious matters into Navarre's head, and used such forcible reasons to divert him from his intended voyage, that notwithstanding the earnest entreaty of the Constable he would not be induced to be at the Parliament at the time appointed, 
The King of Navarre would not be at the council of estate.  which treacherous counsel of theirs, gave such a blow unto the whole realm of France, that it feeleth the smart thereof until this day. For Navarre being withholden by this their wicked advise, the whole government still remained in the hands of the Guises, who fortified themselves more and more to their own advancement, and the extreme peril of the whole state.  
The day prefixed being come, there presented themselves most the greatest personages which had been summoned, so that the 21. of August 1559. this honourable company were assembled in the chamber of the Queen mother, and every one placed according to their degrees. First the K. under his cloth of estate, than the Queen mother, the king's wife, & the king's brethren. Next to these were the Cardinals of Burben, of Lorraine, of Guise, of Chastillon. The Dukes of Guise and Aumaile, duke Memorancie Constable of France, Monsieur d'Hospital the Chancellor, the two Mareschals, S. Andrew, & Bressac, Chastillon the Admiral of France, 
The order of the estates of France, as they sit in their Parliament.  Marillac the Archbishop of Vienna, Morbillier Bishop of Orleans: Mouluc bishop of Valence, Mortier and Auancon, all of the King's privy Council. The Knights of the orders, the masters of the requests, the secretaries, and the rest of the king's officers had likewise their places assigned them. 
The order of the estates of France, as they sit in their Parliament.  All things being disposed after this manner, before any were commanded to speak, the Admiral rose up, and with a Supplication in his hand went to the king, 
The Admiral presenteth the supplication of the protestants to the King.  to whom (after due obeisance done) he declared, that according to his majesties commandment at his going into Normandy, having as diligently as he could looked into the causes of these troubles which sprung up daily in the land, he in his opinion conjectured, that such as found themselves most grieved, intended no harm against his royal person, or the state, but that their greatest discontentment arose of the extreme persecutions of such, as were termed Hugonots, without any judicial manner of proceeding: especially seeing they offered to have their doctrine tried by the scriptures, and were willing to conform themselves to the order of the primitive church, & therefore he thought it a thing very agreeable to his majesties liking, to take their humble petition, and present it unto his highness, to the end that he understanding their grief, might devise with his council in so honourable a presence, somespeedy means to relieve his distressed subjects, & to set his kingdom in some better quietness, assuring him, that in his opinion, there were infinite multitudes in France that sighed after a reformation, seeing there were, as he was told, fifty thousand in Normandy, who would willingly have subscribed unto that supplication. And so beseeching the King to have some regard hereof, and favourably to interpret that which he had done, with humble reverence he returned to his place. When as this supplication was read, & the contents understood, whereof some were that there might be public places appointed for the Protestants to meet in, and that their preachers might be permitted to teach the people without peril, many wondered at this bold part of the Admiral, considering the manifest danger he had cast himself into, by taking the cause of such odious persons into his hand, and present it unto the K. who was so exasperated against them. The King seemed to take this action of the Admirals in very good part, giving him very gracious words, and an honourable testimony of his good service, commanding every one to speak his opinion in order, and as the case required.  
In this assembly there were three which spoke excellently to the purpose, laying open unto the view of all men the naked truth: and as men resolute in their country's cause, not daunted with the faces of any, openly reproved that course which was taken in the administration of the Commonwealth, and the affairs of the land. And those were Moluc Bishop of Valence, Marillac the Archbishop of Vienna, and Chastillon the Admiral. The eloquent speech of Mouluc, did somewhat warm the Guises, and Marillac with his hardy and learned discourses, did make them as hot as a toast. 
Mouluc, Marillac, & the Admiral worthy of immortal praise for their free speech.  Both concluding, that to prevent so many miseries as were likely to ensue, it were convenient to assemble a general Council: or if that could not be accomplished, then to refer the deciding of those controversies to a national Council, and in the mean time to deal more mildly with such as were of the reformed religion. But when the Admiral came to speak, he made them stark mad, he so touched them to the quick. 
The Admiral touch the Guises to the quick.  For having first approved that which had been said by Mouluc, and Marillac, he insisted upon the new guard which the Guises had set about the king which (said he) was a matter of perilous consequence, to nourish the K. in a diffidence and evil opinion of his subjects, and in time might draw on the hatred of the people towards their prince, who seeing themselves suspected, would be suspicious again, seeing their king and sovereign armed against them, and in stead of free access, to impart unto him their griefs and doleances, to be utterly secluded from his presence, by a multitude of armed soldiers. And for his part he could not conceive what reason there was, why the French king should be so guarded: for he would pawn his honour, his goods, yea, and his life to, that there was no harm meant against his person. If any of his principal Officers were afraid of themselves, it were good to cut off all occasions of offence, which arose especially of the disordered government of such as had the managing of the public affairs.  

The duke of Guise highly offended with the Admiral.  The Duke of Guise was in an extreme rage with the Admiral for these speeches, and from that day forward grew to be his mortal enemy. And albeit that he and the Cardinal his brother, laboured to cross these good motions before remembered: yet was it agreed upon by the King, with the assent of all the Nobility, that there should be another assembly of the estates at Meaux, and there these points to be more fully resolved of: and in the mean time that every one should repair into their Countries, to learn the state of them, the better to acquaint the King at the next assembly with their plaints. While these things were thus in handling, there were many enterprises of the Mal-contents, tending to the surprising of sundry towns: which occasioned the Guises to send out proclamation in the King's name, and to levy soldiers, to withstand (as they said) the attempts of the seditious, and perturbers of the state. But the truth was, that having their forces in a readiness, they might send on the sudden for the Prince of Cond●, who was still with his brother the King of Navarre: and if he would not come, then to fetch him by force. But first they assayed after a mild manner, to accomplish their devices, causing the king to write unto Navarre, in friendly sort to request him to come to the Court, and to bring his brother Conde with him, or otherwise he should be compelled to fetch him, for that there were so many, and so evident accusations against him. But Navarre, and the Prince answered so wisely, and with such courage, that their enemies thought it not good to attempt any thing against them by violence. Whereupon they caused the king to send an other Messenger, by whom they were required to come to his Majesty, 
The Guise's cause the K. to falsify his word.  assuring them in the word of a Prince, that there should no injury be offered them, but that they should return at their pleasure: only he desired to be satisfied from the Prince of Condees own mouth, touching such matters as he was charged with: Whereupon, these two Princes relying upon the king's faithful promises, 
1560  repaired to the Court, whither they were no sooner come, but that the Prince of Conde was committed to Chavignie, 
The Prince of Conde committed to prison.  Captain of the guard, and by him clapped up in prison, where no man might speak unto him. The king of Navarre had no further liberty, then to walk from his own Chamber to the king, and no man might speak with him but such as pleased the Guise, who set spies enough about him, to observe his doings. The mother in Law likewise of the Prince of Conde, and Sister to Chastillon the Admiral, was sent to prison, and very narrowly looked unto. Her Closet and all her house was rifled, to find some matter against her. This rough dealing with the chief Princes of the blood, and other such of great quality and calling, made many muse what would be the issue of such outrageous designs.  
The Prince had not been long committed to prison, but there was a priest sent unto him to say Mass in his Chamber. But he commanded him to be thrust out by the head and shoulders, 
The Prince thrusteth a Mass priest out of his doors by the head and shoulders.  willing him to tell the King that he would not suffer any such idolatrous service in his presence: as also that he would not to save his life offend the Majesty of God in so high measure.  
When his enemies had gotten this advantage against him, they so incensed the King, that he forthwith commanded his process to be drawn, and sentence of death to be pronounced against him, 
The prince condemned to die.  with commandment to hasten the execution as speedily as might be. But while they were earnestly busied about this matter, and thought even now to have attained to the full period of their desires, the king fell dangerously sick of an ulcer, 
The K. falleth sick.  growing in his ear, which increasing more & more, & the physicians despairing of his recovery, the Prince's execution, (which should have been the morrow following) was respited for a time, until they saw what would become of the king, who every day waxing worse and worse, notwithstanding all the means that could be devised by the Guises, their solemn vows to the saints in Paradise, & their public processions, with earnest prayers for his health: yet he died the fift day of December, 
The death of the French King.  1560. after he had reigned 17. months, to the exceeding grief of the catholics, & the great terror of the D. of Guise, 
The horror of the Guises.  and the Cardinal his brother, who had carried themselves so proudly and arrogantly during all the time of his reign, that they were extremely hated of all that were of any virtuous and humble disposition, and therefore were now marvelously afraid, lest they should endure some scourge for their former outrageous doings, and that horrible confusion which they had brought into the Commonwealth.   

CHAP. VII.  
Charles the ninth, the French King: the Prince of Conde set at liberty. The discontentment of the Princes of the blood. The King of Navarre made the King's Lieutenant. The Constable bandeth with the Guises. The King of Navarre forsaketh the Protestants. The Triumuirat. The murder at Vassie. The beginning of the first civil wars. The death of the King of Navarre. Dandelot bringeth forces out of Germany for the succour of the Protestants. The battle of Dreux. Poltrot killeth the Duke of Guise. Peace proclaimed.  
FRancis the second was no sooner deceased, and that Charles the ninth was come to the Crown, but all seemed to be cast in a new mould: especially the state of the Prince of Conde, was incontinenly altered: for whereas before he was accused and condemned of high treason, and should have been executed, had not the malicious purposes of his enemies been crossed, by the sudden death of the King: now he was cleared of all the former accusations, and declared innocent of those pretended crimes, and restored to his dignity and place. 
The Prince of Conde set at liberty.  The Guises his mortal enemies began in all submiss manner to seek his favour, and never left the Queen mother, until she had accomplished their desires: which was the more readily brought to pass, for that they had caused the late King, a day or two before to speak lovingly unto the King of Navarre, and to affirm that the Guises never attempted any thing, either against him, or his brother, the Prince of Conde: but that whatsoever was done, was at his commandment, and that contrary to their counsel and advice, he had caused the said Prince to be imprisoned: and therefore he desired them, for the love they bore unto him, that they would not conceive hardly against them, or any of theirs.  
Albeit Navarre did not believe this, yet as one loath to raise new stirs, he was content to temporize & dissemble the matter, supposing in deed, that now their pride was abated, and that they would no more carry themselves so hautily as they had done in times past. But they no more able to change their natures, than then the Leopard her spots, still aspired to have the government in their hands: and it seemed the Queen mother was well content to give them some countenance, fearing tha● if they should be altogether kept under, by the Princes of the blood, her authority would likewise in short time be limited: which was a thing that she could not endure by any means. Which being noted by the King of Navarre, he complained to the Queen mother, 
The King of Navarre complaineth to the Queen mother, of the Guise.  that those of Guise were again too much favoured, and that they had too great countenance, being preferred before him, who was the chiefest Prince of the blood, and who by the ancient laws ought to have the government of the Realm, during the nonage of the King: and that he could not endure to see them advanced, who had always been his mortal enemies. And although he were contented to bear much in regard of the love and duty he bore unto her, 
The Princes of the blood depart from the Court greatly discontented.  yet there was no reason why his kindness should be so hardly requited. And if it were, he would not endure it: and further, if the duke of Guise were so near about the King, he must and would be further of.  
The Queen mother sought to content Navarre with fair words, but yet she did not satisfy him as he desired: and therefore the next day, he with most of the Princes of the blood, the Constable, his sons and Nephews of Chastillon, departed from the Court towards Paris, highly discontented with the Queen's answer. The Queen mother, who extremely grieved to see this accident, sent for the Constable to come and speak with her: to whom she caused the King to say, and that in the presence of two Secretaries of estate, 
The Constable commanded by the King not to departed from Court.  who were ready to record what was spoken, that seeing he was the chief Officer of the Crown, and one of whose presence he stood in need of at that instant, he commanded him not to forsake him, as he would answer it at his peril. Which word took such place, and made such an impression in the constable's mind, that albeit he were often summoned by the King of Navarre, to stand to his promise, yet he could not be drawn from the Court, but kept him still with the King: whereupon it was presently voiced, that the Queen mother maintained the Guises against the King of Navarre, and the rest of the Princes of the blood.  
But lest Navarre and his associates should be too much discontented with this cross dealing, it was thought good to practise some new atonement between them and the Guises, and to declare Navarre the king's lieutenant general throughout all his dominions: 
The King of Navarre made lieutenant general for the king.  which was accomplished by the means of the Constable: so that now Navarre was highly honoured, and the Guises made Court unto him. This gave some comfort unto the persecuted Hugonots, and caused all men to hope for some better government than had been of late time: and the rather, for that Navarre told the Ambassador of Denmark, that within one year he would cause the Gospel to be preached throughout all France.  
It was a wonder to hear what joy there was generally, throughout the whole land, and how exceedingly the number of the Protestants were increased in a short time, by this little countenance which was given them. In somuch as they could hardly find convenient places to receive the multitudes, which flocked to the Sermons. Now as there were many who used this benefit wisely, and with great reverence: so there were others, who indiscreetly abused it, exceeding a mean, and hastily running from one extremity to another, supposing they stood upon a better foundation than indeed they did, began to use too much liberty, to eat flesh, and that upon such days as were forbidden, to condemn festival days, and many ceremonial usages, to pull down images, and deface altars, contrary to that which had not long before been expressly commanded: which was that the ordering of these things, should be referred either to a general, or national council.  

The Constable alienated from the Admiral by the practice of the Guise.  This boldness and rash dealing of many of the reformed, and the daily informations of such like pranks played in many corners of the land, brought the Constable (who was a very devout and a religious Papist) into a marvelous dislike with such as were termed protestants, especially when he saw them at Court eat flesh in Lent, and that there were preachings in the Prince of Condes chamber, and likewise in the Admirals, and free access for all men to come unto them. Which when the Guises perceived, they likewise under the pretext of religion joined themselves unto the Constable, exasperating him against the Admiral his cousin, for his embracing of the Gospel, and set the Marshal S. Andrew to whisper him in the ear, that the motion which was made, as touching the calling back again of those excessive donations, given by the late King, was a devise of the Admirals, to keep him being his uncle in awe, and by that practice to cause him to change his Religion. Sundry others (as Madam Madalyne de Savoy his wife, the Duchess of Valentinois, & the Count Villiers, put to their helping hands to whet him on: who altogether alienated by these practices, notwithstanding all the remonstrances of the Marshal Memorancie his son, banded against his own kindred, and associated himself with the Dukes of Montpensier, and of Guise, who with their leagues and confederations rob the king of his subjects, 
The league.  and brought into that noble kingdom all disorder and confusion.  
The Guises having got the Constable to join with them, began to lift up their heads, and secretly to spread abroad many infamous things against the Admiral, whose confusion of all others they most earnestly desired, whereupon many grudge arose, and it was vehemently feared, that some tumultuous accidents would ensue: for the preventing whereof, there was an Edict made at Fountainbleau, 
The Edict made at Fountainbleu  and sent abroad into all parts of the land, whereby it was forbidden to use any opprobrious words to any of the King's liege people, and especially that one should not call another Papist, or Huguenot, but that all should live in amity together, and not alter any thing which was already established, before the king, by the advice of his council, had otherwise ordained. The Guises could not endure that this peaceable course should be taken, 
The Guise's labour to overthrow the king's Edict.  and therefore (as those who thought it their best to fish in troubled waters) they devised with the Court of Parliament at Paris, to frustrate this Proclamation, and by many reasons to show the invalidity thereof, & especially for that thereby was tolerated two religions: which (said they) was not to be endured, considering that by this means, the whole state was endangered, nay that it was impossible for that common wealth to endure long, where there were such contrarieties considering that there can be no agreement betwixt god & belial: & a kingdom divided within itself could not continue for any long time. Besides, the Cardinal of of Lorrayn made many grievous complaints against those of the Religion, 
The Cardinal of Lorraine complaineth of the assemblies of the Protestants.  saying that their assemblies and conventicles waxed greater every day than other, that there were foul and villainous disorders committed by them in their nocturnal meetings: that they were people without order, without conscience or any civil humanity, and that they neither feared God nor the King.  
These and the like complaints much moved the Queen mother, & gladly she would have repressed these assemblies, if she had known how. But the countenance of the King of Navarre, the Prince of Conde, the Admiral Rochfaucont, Dandelot, and divers other of the Nobility, did encourage many to persist, and drew on others by their examples, with great earnestness to embrace the gospel, in so much as at length they finding themselves very strong, and well countenanced by great estates, seized upon sundry of the Catholics Churches, and preached publicly in the view of all men, and that in Paris, the principal City of the whole land: yea, the Gospel prevailed so mightily in a short space, that it was found by the diligent inquiry of the Admiral, that there were 2150. congregations that made profession thereof: 
2150. congregations of the protestants in France.  which vexed the Guyses to the heart, who by their cunning handling of the matter, had by this time brought the Constable in such hatred therewith, and with his cousins the three chastillon's, that both he and the Guyses with all their favourites, departed the Court in a great chafe, for that they saw such favour showed to the poor Hugonots.  
While the Protestants were thus graced at their prince's hands, and that all things seemed to go well with them, there fell out a strange accident to cross that happy course of the Gospel, and a most devilish policy was used to overthrow the reformed Religion, well near established in most of all the princicipal Cities, and chiefest villages of the Realm: and that was this.  
The King of Navarre, albeit he favoured the Religion, and countenanced the professors thereof in very good sort, and that for a good while together: yet being a man easily seduced, and almost of no courage or resolution in any thing that he took in hand, was led by others, and by fair words carried hither and thither at every man's pleasure: which the Guyses and their associates perceiving, practised sundry ways to draw him to their faction, assuring themselves that if he might be gained, their side would be strong enough: and that Conde, the Admiral, and all the rest of their confederates would be made to stoop whether they would or not. The better to effect this, they practised with the Cardinal of Ferrara, the Pope's Legate, and with the Cardinal of Turnon, 
The Cardinals of Ferrara and Turnon turneth the K. of Navarre from the Gospel.  who having by rich gifts, and large promises, gained two of his principal servants, did in the end likewise win the master, by a notorious and deep dissimuled devise. They put into his head a fantastical conceit, assuring him that if he would become a Catholic, and continue in the Apostolic Roman faith, that the King of Spain would give him the kingdom of Sardinia, which was four times so good as Navarre, and that the Popish and Spanish galleys should be at his commandment for the defence thereof against all men: some also went about to persuade him to divorce himself from his Wife, and to marry with the Queen of Scots, a young, fair, and beautiful widow, 
The King of Navarre counseled to divorce himself from his Wife, and to marry with the queen of Scots.  the daily soliciting of such as were employed in this business, & their manifold remonstrances, took such place, that his whole mind was set upon Sardinia, whatsoever could be said to the contrary by any friend he had. The Queen of Navarre understanding this, sought by all means to divert him, setting before his eyes his many and solemn promises both to God and man, and that if he should now abandon his friends, all the world would cry out of him. But all was in vain, for he began to decline every day more than other, and in short time did utterly forsake his profession, combining himself with the Guyses, his mortal and sworn enemies.  

The Queen mother playeth on both hands.  The Queen mother did all this while very cunningly carry herself, and became (as it were) a neuter between both, inclining rather to the Catholics, purposing (in deed) howsoever religion went, to take the strongest part, and therefore she entertained the prince of Conde & the admiral with fair words, promising them wonders, and for a better show countenanced the preachings all that might be: howbeit, she favoured the Catholics in her heart, and began to make but light of the daily complaints of the protestants.  
The league which before had been made between the Constable, the Guise, and the marshal Saint Andrew, afterwards called the triumvirate, 
The triumvirate.  having gained the king of Navarre, became very strong, insomuch as they hasted to Paris, there to fortify themselves, and to procure so much as they might, an abolishment of those Edicts and proclamations which had been published in favour of the reformed Church. The king of Navarre began to frown on his cousins of Chastillon, and to speak a loof off unto them: which made them to forsake the Court, and to retire to their own houses, for fear lest there should be some quarrel picked against them. The prince of Conde complained marvelously of those strange fashions of his brother, and resolutely stood in the favour of the protestants: and the better to prevent all inconveniences, put himself within Paris, there to provide for the countenancing of the reformed Churches, and to see that the King's edicts should be executed, and peace maintained so much as might be.  
The triumvirate being well acquainted with all these proceed, & knowing the courage and magnanimous mind of the Prince, which would not be daunted with words, thought it their best to come strongly appointed, and either by fair means or by foul to seize upon the person of the King, and the Queen mother: which if they might once effect, they doubted not but the rest of their devices would be accomplished well enough.  
The Duke of Guise, desirous to be with the foremost at this audacious enterprise, forgot not to join with his associates at the appointed time, and passing by Vashy with a great troop of armed men, 
The murder at Vashy by the Duke of Guise.  understanding that there was a Sermon not far off, where many of the Hugonots were assembled, suddenly set upon them, and in most cruel and outrageous sort, put them all to the sword, sparing neither man, woman, nor child, to the great horror of the beholders of so piteous a tragedy, and to the high dishonour of the King, by whose edict not long before, they were allowed their preachings and liberty of their conscience. After which barbarous fact he hasted to Paris, there to effect the rest of his diabolical devices. The news of this horrible murder (being quickly blown abroad) came no sooner to the ears of the Protestants, but they began to lay their wits together, and to provide for their safety. Many of the nobility which had made profession of the gospel, repaired to the prince of Conde, who was in Paris, there to take advise what course were best to be used in so perilous & dangerous times: where it was concluded, that before they would rise in arms, they would first seek for justice by the ordinary course appointed: whereupon they complained to the King, the Queen mother, and the King of Navarre, desiring that the Duke of Guise, 
The prince of Conde asketh for justice against the Guise, but cannot be heard.  who was now up in arms and marching towards Paris, might be commanded to come in more peaceable manner, and to answer those grievous complaints made against him, and his contemptuous and disobedient proceed against the King's laws. The Queen mother seemed to hearken unto them, but the king of Navarre flatly answered, that he which touched the little finger of the Duke of Guise, touched his whole body, and that he would not endure that he should be wronged by any.  
By this time was the Duke of Guise come to Paris, accompanied with the Constable, the Duke of Aumaile, the marshal of Saint Andrew, Randan, and with a great troop of other his associates, where he was received with the acclamations of sundry other his supposts, Vive Guise, Vive Guise, 
The Guise received with great acclamations into Paris.  as if the K. himself had entered. There likewise repaired to the Prince of Conde great numbers of his friends and followers: so that the City was full of armed men, divided into two contrary factions. The Citizens fearing that there would be some uproar, and that some dangerous accident would ensue among so many enemies and discontented persons, besought the Prince, that for the love and favour which they had always borne to the Princes of the blood, and in especial to the house of Conde, it would please him to have compassion upon the Parisians, who now stood in great fear of their lives and loss of their goods, if any tumultuous stir should hap, by reason their City swarmed with a multitude of soldiers, whom they knew not how to be rid of, unless it might please him whom they had always known to be of a very mild and peaceable nature, to withdraw himself and his troops to some other place: which course as they were assured, it would be the safest for their City, so they doubted not but it would be most honourable unto him, and an evident argument unto all the world, of the religious care he had to save so many men's lives, as at that instant seemed to be in assured peril.  
Whereto the Prince answered, that he for his part was very willing to leave the City, if the Guise would do the like: which thing being promised that it should be performed, 
* The prince of Conde leaving Paris at the request of the Parisians, the Guise seizeth upon it  the prince was no sooner departed, but there were strong guards set at the gates to keep him from reentring: and so was the Prince expelled, and the Guise remained master of the City: This being brought to pass, the triumvirate presently marched towards the Court, 
The triumvirate seizeth upon the K.  and there took the king, the Queen mother, and the King's brethren, whom they brought to Paris, and forthwith determined to proclaim wars against the Prince of Conde, 
The beginning of the first civil wars.  and all his associates. The Prince being informed of these proceed, sent Dandelot brother to the Admiral, to seize upon Orleans, which (though with some difficulty) he accomplished: whether Conde forthwith repaired, and took possession of the Town to the king's use. Now was the war open on all sides, and the Reformed persecuted in most cruel manner in every place, especially at Paris, where nothing was more common than murdering, spoiling, and pilling the poor Hugonots: yea, such was the rage of the barbarous Catholics, that the Princess of Conde passing through a village called Vaudray, was set upon being in her Coach and great with child, and by hurling and throwing of stones by sundry of the townsmen, 
The Princess of Conde assailed in her Coach by the Papists.  at the instigation of a popish priest, put in hazard of her life, wherewith she was so terrified, that she was delivered before her time of two twins shortly after, and at length with much ado, arrived at Orleans with her eldest son the marquis of Conty: where she found the Prince of Conde, the Admiral, Dandelot, and many other principal persons of the Religion, who were busied in gathering forces, and providing all necessary means to withstand their enemies. There were letters written to the Emperor Ferdinando, and the Princes of the Empire, informing them of the occasion of their bearing of arms, and of the usurped authority of the Guyses and their adherents, earnestly beseeching them to have some commiseration of the King, who being a Child, was held in captivity by their tyranny, and all things likely to be brought to a woeful desolation throughout the realm of France.  
The Prince had no sooner gathered a great power about him, & was grown strong by reason of a supply brought unto him out of Poictou, 
Conde taketh certain towns upon the Loire.  and Xantoigne, of three or four hundred horse, by the count Rochfaucont, but that it was thought best to be doing, and to employ some of his forces in getting of certain strong towns and other well fortified places near adjoining: and thereupon certain troops were sent down along by the River of Loire, who took Mun, Baugency, and others, wherein they placed certain garrisons, to keep them from being regained by the enemy, who now sought continually to annoy the Prince, and to take the advantage that was offered.  
Sundry Cities in France, as Angiers, Tholous, Lymoux, with many others, wherein there were thousands of the reformed Religion, seeing that the Prince was grown strong, and very able to confront his enemies, began to show themselves openly, and to stand with the rest of their confederates: whereupon forthwith there ensued a mortal hatred between them and the Catholics, each seeking the overthrow of others by all possible means. Then immediately followed robbing, spoiling, ravishing, murdering, & massacring, in most outrageous manner, 
The misery of the civil wars.  with a marvelous confusion in every corner of the Land. No man could well tell whom to trust, or where to dwell in safety. The chief Cities were fraught with garrisons, the small villages were sacked and burned by such as cared neither for God nor the devil, but only how to enrich themselves. Infinite were the miseries in all quarters, and nothing almost heard of but weeping, wailing, and lamentation, and no hope of any redress of so incomprehensible mischiefs.  
The Prince of Conde and his associates pondering in their minds the woeful desolation that was like to ensue, if there were not some present remedy for these diabolical proceed, wrote divers letters to the King, the Queen mother, and the King of Navarre, beseeching them to take some commiseration upon the poor and desolate people, and that by suffering the subject to use his conscience so long as he lived in obedience and according to the king's Edict, France might enjoy her former peace, and not be brought to that horrible desolation, which doth inseparably accompany civil and intestine wars▪ but the Guise (who in deed with the Cardinal his brother ruled the roast) could not endure to hear of any peace, but daily and hourly cried out, 
The Duke of Guise crieth out for war.  to muster men, to gather soldiers, to send for the king's bannes and arierbannes, and with fire and sword to persecute the poor protestants. And having by their damnable practices gotten an army, marched towards Orleans with great fury. The confederates being daily advertised by their espials of the approach of the Catholics, thought it best to meet them by the way, and if opportunity served, to give them battle, being especially moved thereunto by the continual persuasions of the Admiral, and the courageous resolution of all in general.  
Whereupon the prince took the field the nineteenth of june, 1562. with three Regiments of footmen, amounting to the number of 33. Ensigns, 
The Prince of Conde taketh the field.  whose Colonels were Gnamont, Fontenay, the youngest son of the viscount of Roham, and juoy brother to Genlis, with two thousand horse encamped at Vausoudun, near unto Orleans, and directly in the way towards Baugency. The Catholics having not as yet all their forces in a readiness, thought it best to amuse the Prince with a parley of peace, in which action the Queen mother was thought the meetest to be employed: who so handled the matter, that the Protestants (who longed after nothing so much as quietness) were readily drawn to hearken thereto: only they required, that before any thing was talked of, the Constable, the Duke of Guise, and the marquis Saint Andrew should withdraw themselves to their houses, and then the Prince of Conde should come to the King to treat of that, which especially tended to the peaceable state of the common wealth, and the welfare of every particular man.  
This was no sooner moved by the Protestants, but it was accepted by the Queen mother, so that immediately those three principal Catholics departed from the Court, and went as far as Chasteaudan, where they stayed to expect the sequel of their secret counsels. The Prince understanding of their departure, went presently unto the K. putting himself into the hands of the Queen mother, and other his enemies: 
Conde putteth himself into the hands of his enemies.  but he was no sooner come to the Court, but he forthwith repent of his haste, and being advertised by sundry, of his imminent peril and danger, politicly obtained of the Queen mother, that the principal men of his Army might likewise come to know her further pleasure: which being granted, he wrote a secret letter unto them of his estate, 
A politic devise of the Prince.  desiring them to hasten, and to come strongly accompanied.  
The next day early in the morning there came the Admiral, Dandelot, Rochfaucont, the Prince Portian, Rohan, Genlis, Gramont, Soubize, Piennes, and many other lords & Captains, with a far greater retinue than the Queen expected: so that now she thought it best to make fair weather, and to soothe them up, considering (in deed) that she was not able to detain the Prince any longer than he himself listed, and therefore in very gracious manner she bade them all welcome, and openly in the presence of all the Nobility, she gave them great thanks, for their true and faithful service towards the king, assuring them that she (for her part) did think very honourably of all their proceed, and did not doubt but the King her son would be mindful hereafter to recompense so many deserts, 
The Queen mother alloweth of the proceed of the protestants.  seeing it was very apparent that both his estate and her own was maintained by their royal services. They again humbly thanked her majesty for her good opinion, beseeching her to continue their gracious Lady, and to be a means that there might be an end of those miseries, which now so fearfully threatened the crown of France, promising for their parts to be most ready to employ their whole studies, yea, their goods, and lives, and whatsoever other means they had to assist her majesty, in so good and laudable an action, so that they might enjoy a peace, with a free exercise of their Religion, according to the King's edict.  
They further declared unto the Queen mother, the manifold grievances of the king's subjects, with a means to remedy so many & so lamentable disorders, to all which & sundry other remonstrances, albeit she seemed to give some allowances, yet for that she stood so stiffly against the free exercise of Religion, and would needs urge the Prince to departed the Realm (as indeed he had promised, rather than he would be any occasion of the continuance of civil wars, albeit presently upon better and more mature consideration he repent him of the speech) there could be nothing concluded. Whereupon the Prince returned to his camp, 
The Prince of Conde returneth to his Camp & prepareth for war.  exceeding glad that God had delivered him out of the snares of his enemies, and resolved with all, for his forces to fight it out, and to hazard his fortune assoon as any opportunity was offered. With this resolution he dislodged and marched towards the Catholics, having in his army ten thousand five hundred footmen, and a thousand horse. Now when he approached the enemy, having disposed his troops in very warlike manner, he twice presented the battle, but the Catholics refused, 
The Catholics refuse to fight.  for that all their forces were not as yet assembled.  
The Prince seeing he could not draw them out of their strength, having braved them in the faces, and maintained some light skirmishes with them, retired towards Orleans, sending abroad into all quarters to provide all necessaries for the wars: and for the more speedy accomplishment hereof, it was decreed that Soubize should be sent to Lions, Rochfaucont into Xaintoigne, Duras into Guienne, and Briquemault into Normandy, and so into England, to procure both men and money, and as many friends as might be gotten. Dandelot was likewise sent into Germany, to hasten such succours as were promised by the Princes Protestants. Conde, and the Admiral, with the rest of the Captains and Gentlemen, with two and twenty ensigns of footmen remained still in Orleans.  
By this time were the forces which came out of Germany to the aid of the Catholics in a readiness to march under their Collonelles, 
Forces sent out of Germany to aid the Catholics.  Rokendolf, Frewlich, and the Ringrave, who besides certain Cornets of Reisters, had likewise twenty ensigns of Lansquenits. These were no sooner arrived at the camp, but that the triumvirate thought it best to employ them with all the rest of their forces against the Hugonots, and that before they should have any aid come out of Germany. For the hastening whereof, Dandelot had assayed all possible means, and had so politicly handled the matter, that notwithstanding all the practices of his enemies, he procured great aid for the strengthening of the cause.  
The Catholics were long in suspense whether they should besiege Orleans, or Rohan, 
The Catholics besiege Rohan, and take it.  the principal City in Normandy: but at last, they resolved to assay their forces against Rohan. Where having first gained the fort of Saint Katherins, which commanded the town, through the treachery of the captain, who was corrupted with money and fair promises, they forthwith entered by force, killing, spoiling and murdering the inhabitants in most cruel and horrible manner, and making havoc of all things without pity or mercy. Augustine Marolat, 
Marlorat hanged.  a famous learned man, and chief Minister of the Town, was there hanged, with Mautrevill the precedent of the Parliament, besides sundry other of special account. The Catholics lost many of their bravest men: and amongst others the King of Navarre who being shot with a Harquebuz in the left shoulder, as he was making water in the Trenches, died the seventeenth of September following: 
The King of Navarre wounded to death.  never attaining that Marittime Kingdom, the hope whereof had so bewitched him, that he forgot wife, children, kinsfolks, friends, Religion, yea, and God himself, and thought of nothing but of the Sardinian Crown: being happy in nothing but in this, that he died in the beginning of the Civil wars, and never lived to see the misery of his own Country, whereof he had been a chief and principal cause.  
The loss of this City being a place of so great importance, was a marvelous discouragement unto many, who stood but faintly to their tackle before, and had (no doubt) wrought a more dangerous effect, had not this breach been repaired, or at least well amended, by the surpassing care and provident circumspectness of Dandelot, who so plied his friends in Germany, 
Dandelot bringeth forces out of Germany to the aid of the Protestants,  that he had gathered about 3300. horse, and 4000 footmen, with whom there met the Prince Portion at Strausbourge with 100 French horse. The joyful news of which power encouraged the confederates to hold out, in hope of their future help, and marvelously animated such, as before were exceedingly daunted with the remembrance of their former losses. These new supplies marched towards Lorraine, and passing over the river of Seine, traversed the country by Yonne, Creven, & Montargis, and arrived at Orleans, in despite both of the duke of Nevers, and the Mareschall S. Andrew, who were sent to stop their passage, with 14. companies of men of Arms, 16. cornets of Argoletters, 25. ensigns of footmen, 9 companies of lances, and 13. of light horse, besides the old troops of Picardy, under the leading of Pavan, Monsales, Giury, Crenay, and many other Chieftains. This noble and valiant Dandelot, gained a very honourable report, even of his enemies, for so wise and politic a conduct, insomuch as he was not only reputed a Gentleman of surpassing courage, and of an undaunted spirit in greatest perils, but also a leader of excellent skill, 
Dandelot esteemed for an excellent captain  and deep foresight to prevent all dangers: About the same instant there met with him also Rochfaucont, and Duras, with some three hundred horse, and a thousand five hundred footmen, all which were no sooner assembled at Orleans, but that the Prince determined to take the field: and having provided all things in a readiness, departed toward Phiviers, and so to Baugencie▪ both which places were quickly gained from the Catholics, with the strong Town of Estamps: where was found great store of provision, as Corn, Wine, Powder, shot, and all necessaries for the wars.  
The Prince after some small stay to repose his wearied troops, marched on towards Paris, 
The Prince of Conde marcheth towards Paris.  which he no sooner approached, & that the bands under the leading of the P. Portian, and Movy, had given in so far as the suburbs of S. Victor, but that all the City was in an uproar, and every man at their wits end: so wonderfully were they daunted with the sight of the Prince's army, albeit they were not passed eight thousand footmen, and some five or six thousand horse. Whereas there were within the City at the least, a hundred thousand able to bear arms, having the Constable, the Duke of Guise, the Duke of Nevers, the Mareschals, and in a manner all the brave leaders of France, for their chieftains and commanders. But such was their timorousness, that they kept themselves close, albeit the battle was presented unto them twice at the least, and only amused the Prince with certain conditions of peace, about the which there were many meetings. In the end all being found to be but mere delays, and only to gain time, until the coming of the Spaniards, the Prince resolved to assail the enemy in his Trenches: but the same night, which was appointed for this exploit, and immediately before it should have been put in execution, Genlis a principal man among the Protestants, secretly fled to the Catholics: which unexpected accident quite altered the council of the Confederates, supposing that now there was some advertisement given of their intended enterprise: 
Genlis flieth to the Catholics  and therefore they deferred the execution of that project, until some other tyme. But by reason of the wants that were in the Army, as the penury of victuals, and other necessaries, as also a secret discontentment among the strangers, for that they lacked their pay, it was agreed to stay no longer before Paris, which was not so easy to be gotten, nor in so short a time, as was requisite to supply their present necessity, but to dislodge and to retire towards New-haven, 
The prince leaveth Paris and marcheth to-towards New haven.  there to attend such succours as were expected out of England. By the way the Prince took Galardon, a town of good importance, where he stayed to give some breath to his wearied troops, and to accommodate his army of such things as were most necessary.  
The Catholics coasted him all the way watching to catch him at some advantage: howbeit nothing was attempted until both the camps were come unto Dreux, where they approached so near, and either party had so far engaged themselves, that there was no remedy, but they must needs fight: so that now each General began to bethink of all good means for the strengthening of himself, and the weakening of his enemies. The Catholics had made choice of a very strong place to encamp in, being near unto Dreux, 
The battle of Dreux,  wherein there was a garrison of their associates, and likewise adjoining unto a wood, which was a very fit and convenient place, to effect divers stratagems. There was a large and spacious plain, through which there ran a little valley, serving as it were for the bounds and limits of both armies. The Constable having gotten this advantage, presented himself in battle array, at the head of the village, upon the top of a little hill, having placed two strong battaylons of footmen in the town, which should guard fourteen Cannons: so planted, that they were ready to play upon the army of the confederates, as soon as the signal should be given. Each battalion was flanked with certain troops of horse, as it were for a mutual succour one for another, with their Enfans perdus in their fronts, and those of the choicest of all their regiments. They had the River Eureux at their backs, and espying that they were likely to come to a trial of their fortune, they forthwith emparked themselves between two villages, in a place of more advantage than before.  
The Mareschall S. Andrew led the avant-garde, 
The Catholic army.  which was composed of nine companies of French lances, thirteen ensigns of Spaniards, with as many French, and eleven of Almains, with four field pieces: all which were arranged on the left side of the Constable, who led the main battle, further advanced then either the Mareschall, or the Duke of Guise, wherein were seventeen Cornets of men of Arms, and three of light horsemen, with two and twenty ensigns of Switzers, seventeen of French and Britons, and eight pieces of great Ordinance. The Duke of Guise led the rearward, which seemed to flank the battle of the Constable on the right side, with a strong troop of horsemen, and two esquadrons of Spanish footmen, with sundry others his followers, men of especial account, and much renowned for their valiantness.  
The prince had so arranged his battles, that the horsemen wherein they overmatched his enemies, were in the foremost ranks, 
The Protestants army  and taking unto himself Rochfaucont, with certain light horsemen of Guries company, with some other Cornets led by Movy, and Auarell, besides a troop of Reisters, all which served as flankers for his battalion of footmen, resolved to encounter the Constable, who seemed to be ready to give the charge.  
Each general having disposed of all things in this warlike sort, the great artillery began to vomit out their devilrie, and the Constable prepared to assail the battle of the Prince, which hasted in like manner to the encounter, and that with so stately and superbious a dismarch, that it gave evident testimony, that it was led by a general of noble courage, and great experience. The Prince charged the Switzers, who valiantly endured the first shot, and stood to it very manfully. 
The Prince of Conde charge the Swissers, & overthroweth them.  But at length by reason of the small shot which hailed upon them without ceasing, and somewhat cleared their ranks, they began to give ground, which the valiant and courageous Movy espying, incorporating his troops with Monsieur de Daneret, set on them with such fury, that he made them fly amain. And being seconded by the Prince, wholly defeated them, as renowned Pikemen as they were. The Reisters, who followed the Prince's good fortune, gave in with great courage, committing a marvelous carnage and mortality upon their enemies. At the same instant the Admiral charged the Constable, and that so lustily, that his men began to shrink, and he himself being wounded in the face with a Curtelas, and sore bruised with small pistol shot, was forced to yield to Vezines. But the Reisters passing by at that instant, took him away by force, and carried him to the Prince, as a prisoner of their own. 
The Constable taken prisoner.  The rest of the constables battle was quickly defeated, and no hope left for the Catholics, had not the Duke of Guise reserved his forces, whole and entire, and with a sudden charge crossed the happy course of the victorious Prince: whose battalions of footmen being bared of their horse, could not endure the furious assault of the Guisards, but fled as fast as they could to save their lives: notwithstanding all the encouragement used by Dandelot, who persuaded them all that he might to abide their enemies.  
Moreover danvil one of the sons of the Constable, espying the prince's horsemen disordered with pursuing their victory, charged them before they could be rallied afresh, and having first wounded Conde in the hand, and then slain his horse, the red crosses so pressed on him on all sides, before he could be remounted, that he was constrained to yield himself prisoner, 
Conde taken prisoner.  to the immeasurable grief of all the confederates. The Admiral gathering together so many as possible he might, of his dispersed troops, gave a fresh charge upon the Guise, where there was a sore and cruel fight: but for that he was not able to match his enemies, after the death of many brave men on both sides, 
Dinothus saith, that there were 10000 Catholics slain The Marshal S. Andrew slain.  he retired to Neufuil, leaving the honour of that journey to the Guise. At the last encounter were slain the Mareschall of S. Andrew, Monbrune, the Constable's son, the Lord Picues, Annebaut, Brossy, Giury, and many other leaders. The Duke of Aumaile was grievously hurt, and likewise the Duke of Nevers, who died shortly after. The principal prisoners which were taken, were the Constable, who was forthwith sent to Orlean●e, with Orayson, Rochfort, Esclavoles, and sundry other Gentlemen of good account. There were slain on the Prince's side very near a thousand five hundred footmen, seven hundred Almains, & some four hundred horse, as Dinothus reporteth. The principal of which were, the Baron of Arpaion, Saux, Shandeu, Liencourt, Fredomere, Carliere, Rongnac, Mazelles, Saint Germier, all which for the most part were of the Cornet of Movy, who was taken prisoner at this last conflict.  
The news of this battle was very uncertain: each side supposing, yea, and constantly reporting their own overthrow. But upon more certain intelligence, how that both Generals were taken, and that they had parted in a manner with equal loss, each faction began to rouse up themselves, and to hope for better success in their future wars: whereupon they resolved to choose them new Generals, until the old were again restored to liberty. The duke of Guise was thought the meetest to command over the Catholics, 
The D. of Guise chosen general over the catholics, and the Admiral over the protestants.  and the Admiral over the confederates, who pondering their harms lately received by the death of so many brave men, and their want of many necessaries requisite for to keep the field, thought it best to retire, the one to Paris, the other to Orleans, and there to repair their broken armies.  
The Duke of Guise lay not long idle, but assayed to recover certain towns from the Confederates, as Pluuiers, Estamps, and some others. The Admiral on the other side, being as careful to maintain head against the enemy, besieged sells in Berry, which was yielded upon composition: where he found good store of gold and silver for the payment of his Reisters. Rochfaucont took S. Agnan: and the Prince Portian, entered Monrichard. The gaining of which Towns greatly countenanced the wavering estate of the Protestants. Thus did these two armies float up and down, each seeking to encroach upon other so much as might be. At length the Admiral espying the drift of the Guise, which was to invest Orleans on the sudden, put himself with all his forces within the City. Where notwithstanding upon better advice, he remained not long, but marched towards Normandy, to meet with the Englishmen, 
The admiral goeth towards New-haven, to meet with the Englishmen.  whose landing was daily expected at New-haven, which was the place appoin- for that purpose, and that by the consent of the confederates.  
The Queen mother being advertised hereof, laboured to stop his intended voyage, by propounding a parley of peace: but the Admiral being well acquainted with such stratagems, would in no wise hearken thereto, but followed his form project, and so with some 3000. horse passingly well furnished, and far better than at the battle of Dreux, held on his course. And being a man of great experience, and singular expedition in all his enterprises, he surprised on the sudden sundry places, which proved afterward of no small moment, for the advancing of the affairs of the confederates.  
The duke of Guise having his army in a readiness, and understanding of the Admiral's departure from Orleans, leaving Dandelot his brother for the guard thereof, until his return, thought it best to besiege them who were there assembled, while the Admiral with the flower of all their troops was busied otherwheres. With this resolution he dislodged, and planted his siege about the town, 
The Duke of Guise besieheth Orleans.  which he so sore battered, and courageously assailed, that the City was in imminent peril, and all the confederates were in a wonderful fear, lest it should have been taken. Yea, the Duke so assured himself thereof, that he wrote to the King and Queen Mother, that he hoped now to extirp the race of the Hugonots, who had for so many years troubled the whole land, and that he would send them news thereof within four and twenty hours. But while he was thus in his ruff, firmly persuading himself that all was his, bebold, there fell out a strange and unexpected accident, which broke the neck of all his devices.  
There was a poor Gentleman named john Poltrot, 
The story of Poltot that killed the Duke of Guise.  one of very little stature, but full of spirit and life, and generally reputed of such as best knew him, to be somewhat a rash headed fellow, and very undiscreet, and one that durst attempt any thing. Who being brought up for a long time in Spain, had learned the language very perfectly: And for that both for his colour, complexion, and stature, he was so like unto them of that nation, he was commonly called the little Spaniard.  
This fellow serving sometime under Soubize, who commanded at Lions, would often vaunt, that this was the hand (stretching out his arm) that should kill the Duke of Guise, and deliver France from that monstrous and cruel Tyrant. And this he usually uttered in great bravery: so that as many as heard him, knowing the humour of the man, laughed at his folly, little imagining that he meant as he said, for if he had, than it was likely he would have kept his purpose more secret, and not have been so open mouthed. It happened so, that immediately after the battle of Dreux, Soubize sent this Poltrot with a Letter to the Admiral, who was now at sells in Berrie: whither he was no sooner come, but that Feuquieres, whom he had served in former times in the wars in Pycardie, knowing him to be a man of service, commended him to the Admiral, saying: that he was a fit man to be employed to discover somewhat of the enemies proceed about Orlean●e, for that he should be taken for a Spaniard, and so a favourer of their designs. Whereupon the Admiral gave him twenty Crowns, and sent him to Orleans: where he continued not long, but having got as good intelligence as he could, returned back to do his message.  
The admiral liking the man well for his diligence, and secrecy in matters of such importance, gave him an hundred Crowns, and bid him buy him a good Horse, that he might with more celerity dispatch his business. With this money Poltrot bought him a very excellent Spanish Jennet, and leaving the Admiral, went back to the Guise's Camp, where he awaited some opportunity to put in execution his intended purpose. Which shortly after fell out: for he espying the Duke somewhat late in the evening riding towards his Tent upon a little Nag, only attended on by a Gentleman Usher which went before him, and an other which talked with him: he approached as near as he could, and discharged his pistol upon the Duke, hitting him in the shoulder, wounded him very sore, and so turning his horse, fled as fast as he could. And having ridden all that night by by-ways, for fear of those who pursued him, he not knowing which way he went, wandered up and down, & in the end came again almost to the place where he committed the fact. Which when he perceived, he road all the day following, with as much speed as possibly might be, to get out of the danger of his pursuing enemies. But having with continual travel wearied both himself and his horse, he rested at a farm house, where he was taken upon suspicion, and committed to safe keeping for his further trial. Being examined, and found culpable, he was adjudged to be drawn in pieces with four horses: 
Poltrot drawn in pieces with horses.  to have his head cut off, and his torn body to be burnt to ashes.  
This sudden blow did marvelously dismay the Catholics, and the rather for that it appeared to be deadly, and not possible to be healed: For he waxed worse every day than other, and died very shortly after, 
The Duke of Guise died within seven or eight days after his hurt  to their unspeakable grief: who had reposed their whole confidence in him, and to the great rejoicing of the confederates, whose deadly & sworn enemies he was always accounted. And this was the end of that turbulent spirit, & ambitious Guise, who as he had massacred many: so he in the end was murdered by others, and that even then when he thought least of any danger: nay rather fully persuaded himself well near to have attained to the full period of his wished desires. So uncertain is the state and condition of the greatest, and most mighty personages in this variable and changeable world.  
The Guise was no sooner dead, but there ensued a present alteration: and those conditions which had been before propounded, were forthwith fully agreed upon, & so was there a peace proclaimed the 19 of March following at S. Memen, in the camp before Orleans, 
Peace proclaimed in the Camp before Orleans.  wherewith all sorts in general seemed to be marvelously well contented, hoping to be freed from those horrible miseries, wherewith they had been afflicted for so many years. And indeed albeit this pacification held but for a while, yet did the whole land reap great fruit thereby, and acknowledged the gracious goodness of the Almighty, in that it had pleased him to give them some respite, and to make an end of their Civil wars. But this blessed peace could not continue long, by reason there fell out many occasions of discontentment to either faction, by means whereof they were soon entangled afresh in their former sorrows and vexations.   

CHAP. VIII.  
The seditious humour of the Cardinal of Lorraine. The Admiral accused for the death of the Duke of Guise. The complaints of the Protestants. The League made at Bayon. The King refuseth to hear the Protestants. The second civil war. Paris besieged by the Protestants.  
THe Cardinal of Lorraine, 
The Cardinal of Lorraine seeketh new occasions of strife.  and brother to the deceased Duke of Guise, the especial instrument of all these calamities which had continued for so long time in that noble kingdom of France, inwardly vexed to see such a peaceable estate, knowing full well that it did not stand with his commodity and profit, to see the Princes of the blood to be favoured at the Court, neither yet the Nobility and Gentlemen to live in peace and amity one with another, and all sorts as brethren to live evenly together, devised a way to set all men again together by the ears, and to embark themselves into new troubles. He therefore with the assent of his associates, spread abroad divers calumniations, and slanderous rumours of those of the reformed Religion, & being a gracious man with the Queen mother, for that their humours were but too agreeable and consonant each to other, he persuaded with her, that if she should countenance the chief Princes and Lords of the Religion, and suffer them to be near the Court, and bear a sway in matters of State, they would draw on many followers after them, and peradventure gain the young King and the Princes his brethren to be their friends, and then Conde being a man of courage and of that proximity in blood would look to have his place: which if he might peaceably enjoy, her authority would be quickly in the dust, and the Bourbon's, Memorancies, and chastillon's would rule all: and as it was most likely, she should be called to an account for her former government, during the King's nonage: and by drawing on the hatred of the Catholics, of the Pope, and of the King of Spain, lose all her credit and reputation.  
The Queen mother being jealous enough of her estate before, and now encouraged by the Cardinal to role every stone rather than to lose one jot of her authority, discountenanced all that she might those of the Religion, and to be rid of the Admiral, whom for his wisdom, integrity, valour, and uprightness of all his actions she could not abide, it was devised that he should be charged to have hired Poltrot to kill the late Duke of Guise: and to colour the matter withal there was a counterfeit deposition of Poltrot exhibited, and the young Duke of Guise was animated to demand justice of the K. for the death of his father. 
The young Duke of of Guise set on to accuse the Admiral of the murder of his father.  But when this devise came to the prince of Condes ear, Lord how exceedingly was he offended, protesting, and that openly at the Council Table, that he would spend all that ever he had, yea, and his own life too, before the Admiral whom he knew to be innocent, should be so injuriously handled: which speech of the Princes, with some other considerations, was the cause that this pursuit ceased for that time, and a reconciliation was made between the Admiral, and those of the Guise, at Moulins, immediately before the King was about to go in progress to Bayon.  
Albeit the Admiral was no further troubled at this instant, yet it was a means to make him hated and detested of all the Catholics, and a principal cause of sundry quarrels between the Papists and the Protestants, which in the end proved so great, that they drew on a second civil war: for there grew daily complaints, each charging other with the breach of the King's Edict, and many accusations were broached on both sides. The Catholics complained, that the strong Towns and fortresses were not yielded to the king's obeisance, that there were many preachers which were not allowed of by the Edict, and that they preached in sundry places expressly prohibited, 
The complaints of the Catholics and Protestants.  that they were disgraced with many approbrious and scandalous speeches, and that there were secret practices for the levying of Soldiers in Germany and other places, which should be in a readiness upon the first sommance.  
The Protestants alleged that they were rigorously handled, and could not have justice when they complained: that the insolency of the garrisons which were placed in sundry protestant Towns, was intolerable and could not be endured: that there were daily murderers of the reformed in every corner of the Land, and nothing so common as robbing, spoiling, ravishing, pilling and poulling the poor Hugonots, and no punishment inflicted upon the Authors and abettors of such horrible and detestable villainies.  
These and the like complaints being often reiterated on both sides, and each faction nourishing their suspicions, upon every small occasion: their rancour grew greater & greater, and those small sparks which for a while lay covered in ashes, broke out at last into a furious and raging fire. For the Catholics had no sooner gotten all things in a readiness, exacted their citadels into the protestant Towns, placed their garrisons, sworn their associations and leagues (which were termed the confraternities of the holy Ghost) and that under the colour of viewing the state of the Land, the king was gone to Bayon, 
The league made at Bayon among the Catholics.  there to make a confederacy between himself and the Spanish king, and the Duke of Alva, to root out all the Hugonots, but that a Million of injuries and indignities were offered to the poor protestants. There was an Edict made at Rousillon, 
The Edict of Rousillon.  which was termed a declaration or an exposition of the edict of the pacification: but this was so contrary to those articles which had been agreed upon before; that all men might see they had fully resolved to break their promises with the Protestants. Then did there follow immediately after, most barbarous cruelties and tyrannical oppressions of all sorts which made any profession of the Gospel, though it were never so little: which when the Protestants (to their unspeakable grief) beheld, and that after so many just complaints there was no redress to be hoped for by fair means, but that their usage was likely to be worse and worse, for that the six thousand Swissers were still retained in a readiness to be employed against them upon the sudden, as they vehemently suspected, they thought it high time to look about them, and to study how they might best prevent so imminent perils.  
Whereupon they wrote letters, 
The Protestants begin to provide for themselves.  and sent their secret messengers into all quarters, to advertise their associates, to use all the speed that could be made, & to come and attend the Prince of Conde, Rochfaucont, and the Admiral, Dandelot, and others who were their principal chieftains. This could not be so closely kept, but the Queen mother had intelligence thereof, who with the King lay at Meaux, a place not far distant where the said Prince of Conde with his confederates were assembled, and had purposed to hasten to the Court strongly accompanied, 
Conde with his associates go towards the Court.  to see if they could bring their enemies to any better reason, or more equal and even conditions. As soon as the Queen mother understood of the dismarch of the Prince, and that he came directly towards the King, she resolved at midnight to dislodge, and to hasten to Paris, 
The King flieth to Paris.  leaving the Constable with the battalion of Swissers and some eight or nine hundred French horse, to stop the course of the Protestants: who seeing themselves overmatched, and that they could neither by fair means nor by foul be admitted to the speech of the King, who was by this time gotten within Paris, they retired towards Clay, expecting the rest of their forces, which daily repaired unto them out of Picardy, champaign, Poictou, Guienne, and sundry other places of the Land: where they stayed not long, but marched towards Saint Dennis, which was a little village some two leagues distant from Paris.  
Now began there to be as it were a general combustion through out France, and the wars which had ceased for a time were forthwith open on all sides: 
The second Civil wars.  there were with the Prince of Conde the Cardinal of Chastillon, the Admiral, Dandelot, Rochfaucont, jenlis, Clermont, Amboise, Saux, Bouchart, Bouchauanes, Piquigni, Lysy, Money, Saint Phale, Esterny, Montgommery, the Vidame of Chartres, La Nove, Lavardin, and all their retinues. These being assembled, sent their humble letters to the King, unfolding their manifold griefs and dolours, beseeching his majesty that they might be heard, and suffered to enjoy their liberties, and to have the free exercise of their Religion, according to the Edict of Pacification, made before Orleans: but answer being returned that the Edict was but provisionable, and made for the necessity of the time, and that the King to satisfy them would not fall out with all his neighbour Princes, by tolerating any other besides the Romish Religion, they determined to gather as great forces as they could, and to besiege Paris.  
It was not long before they had gotten some 2000 horse, & 4000 footmen, 
The Prince of Conde besiegeth Paris  with which power they first took Estamps, Dourdan, Orleans, & sundry other places of good importance, so that stopping the avenues, and blocking the city on all sides, they determined either to obtain a peace with better conditions then before, or else to famish the Parisians, who could not long endure without relief from other places. The Catholics were not idle, but daily enterprised upon the Protestants, fight and skirmishing with them upon every advantage, and understanding that their forces were severed, (Dandelot and Mountgommery being sent away with five hundred horse and eight hundred footmen to surprise Poysy and Ponthoise: Lafoy Nove to take Orleans, Rochfaucont: & Movy to conduct the troops which came out of Guienne and Poictou, to the succours of the Prince:) they thought it not convenient to let slip so fit opportunity, and therefore having all their forces in a readiness, the Constable issued forth of Paris the tenth of November 1567. 
The constable issueth forth of Paris.  with three thousand horse, and about seventeen or eighteen thousand footmen all very well armed and appointed for the Combat, and were arranged in this manner.   

CHAP. IX.  
The battle of Saint Dennis. The death of the Constable of France.  

The Army of the constable.  HIs whole army was stretched out in length, more resembling a hedge then any thing else, on the left side whereof were placed the battalion of Swissers, flanked with a good number of arquebusiers, all which stood to assure fourteen pe●ces of great ordinance, which were planted in the mouth of Auberuilliers, towards which he caused his whole army to turn head: on the left side of the Swissers he appointed a regiment of Horse, and before them another very strong troop likewise of horsemen, whereof was Captain the marshal Memorancy his eldest son. There were also on the same side the regiments of the Dukes of Nemours, Longeville, the Count Retts, Chavigny, Thore, Lansac, and many others: close to these stood a good troop of arquebusiers on foot: behind all these stood the battle of the Parisians bravely shining with armour, pikes, & halberds, hiding almost the side of the army Catholic, wherein was the Constable with his Swissers: on the right side were the regiments of the Count Brissac and Strozzi, and somewhat higher those of the marshal Cossy, Byron, Auely, Riviere, with some others, behind whom stood the Duke of Aumaile, & marshal Danuill, strongly guarded with two troops of horsemen, for the better assurance of the Swissers and French footmen.  

The Army of the Prince  The Prince being advertised hereof by his espials, and knowing that that day would not pass without a fight, marshaled his battalions as followeth.  
The Admiral assisted with Cleermont and his two sons, Resty, six cornets of horse, and four hundred arquebusiers on foot lead by Vallefeniere, stood right in the face of those that guarded the side of the Constable. Genlis accompanied with Lavardin, Vardes, Bressant, Besancourt, with five or six cornets fronted the marshal Cossy, Byron, and the rest before mentioned. The Prince of Conde, the Cardinal Chastillon, Sechalles, the vidames of Chartres, and of Amiens, the Counts of Saux, La Suze, Esternay, Conchavanes, and Stuard, who commanded over certain Scots, with four hundred arquebusiers stood lower in the form of a battle, covering Saint Dennis, faced the Constable and them who were before him, so that their form of battle resembled a Croysant or new Moon.  
These generals had no sooner disposed of their battalions in this warlike manner, but their great ordinance began to thunder, and their Enfans Perdus to attach the skirmish: Genlis seeing the Catholics approach towards his quarters, ranged his men close together, and having desired them to go resolutely to the charge, and to enter succour one another, advanced to receive them, who changing their pace into a trot, re-encountered them with such fury, that it hasted the death of above fifty persons at that instant. The Admiral who was an old Fox and beaten to the wars, could quickly espy his advantage, seeing the state of the battle, caused his arquebusiers to amend their march, and to put themselves further forwards, and being seconded by the Prince and by the rest of the Army who were ready to receive their part of the blows as well as others, gave in so lustily and so courageously charged the red crosses, that he overthrew them, making them run headlong upon the Parisian bands, 
The red crosses b●gan to run.  whom they exceedingly disordered and affrighted.  
The Mareschall Cossy seeing many of the Catholics disbanding themselves, and the Confederates wholly pursuing them, crying Victory, Victory, sent word to the Mareschall Danuill, and the Duke of Aumaile, to accompany him to the charge. Now was the Prince hastening to encounter the Constable, upon whom he ran amain, and with such fierceness assailed them whom he met, that he quite defaced them who were much dismayed before with the fearful flight of their companions, whom the Admiral had chased already, and made such a breach in their great battalion, that the Constable being abandoned by above a thousand runnaways, finding himself hurt in the face, 
The Constable wounded to death.  and pressed to yield by Stuard a Scot, could not for choler answer otherwise then with blows of his sword, with the pummel whereof he gave Stuard such a blow on the jaw bone, that he smote out two or three of his teeth, and loosed many of the rest, which when another Scotte espied, he shot him into the reins of the back with his pistol, for that he wore but a very thin and light harness, being a man above four score years of age. Now were the Swissers marvelously astonished, and ready to take their heels as well as others, had they not been reassured by the Duke of Aumaile and the Mareschall danvil, who promised to live and die with them, and likewise by the hardy onset of the Mareschall Memorancy, who by overthrowing certain of the Prince's troops of Horse, made most of his footmen to fly, and had not the night so fast approached, he had utterly discomfited all the rest: but the darkness which presently ensued, caused each to return, & to draw towards those quarters where they heard the cries of their generals, the Protestants to the Prince of Conde, who plained of his horse which was sore hurt and wounded, insomuch as he began to fail him, and he was no sooner alighted, but he fell down stark dead besides him. The Catholics went towards the Constable, who was wounded to death, and seeing all things standing in so bad terms, never pursued the Protestants, contenting themselves with the honour of the field, and the liberty to bury their dead. 
The number of the slain.  The Prince retired back again to Saint Dennis, having lost the vidame of Amiens, Piquigni, Saux, La Suse, Saint Andrew, Garennes with three hundred horsemen, and above fifty Gentlemen of Mark. The Catholics with their general, left behind them dead in the field, the Count De Chamne, Hierom of Turin, and above forty chieftains and commanders, beside three hundred common soldiers, and a great multitude of maimed and wounded men.   

CHAP. X.  
The Prince of Conde leaveth Paris. Rochel yieldeth to the Protestants. The Duke of Anjou made the King's Lieutenant. Cassimer bringeth aid to the Protestants. The siege of Chartres. Peace proclaimed in France.  

The Prince raiseth his siege before Paris.  THe next day after the coming of Dandelot (who was exceeding sorry that he came not time enough to have been at the battle) the Prince presented himself again with all his whole power before Paris, but his enemies kept close within the walls: wherefore after he had braved them for a good space, and had wasted and spoiled hard to the suburbs, seeing that no man durst appear to impeach his proceed, considering that victuals and other necessaries for his army waxed scant, and that the Catholics hourly reinforced themselves, as also understanding that Cassimer was coming with a great army to his aid, he dislodged then from S. Dennis the fifteenth of November, and went towards Lorraine to receive his Almains. Being on his way at Montargis, he received letters from Truchares, who was a little before elected Mayor of Rochel, that if he would send some especial man of account to be Lieutenant in his absence, they would yield the town to his devotion. The Prince was wonderful glad to hear this good news, knowing that to be a place of no small importance, and therefore he forthwith dispatched Saint Hermin his Cousin with letters to the Mayor and shrives of the town, giving them hearty thanks for their great favour and kindness, with a request to remain constant, and to receive his Cousin as his Lieutenant in his absence.  

Rochel yielded to the Protestants.  This gentleman was very welcome to the Rochelers, where he arrived the tenth of February, 1568. and so Rochel being a marvelous strong place, accommodated with a goodly haven, by which means it was grown very rich, remained ever after at the devotion of the Confederates.  

The troops of Poictou. Xaintoigne. etc.  By this time were there new troops levied in Poictou, Guienne, Xaintoigne, Angolesme, and Gascongne, under the leading of Saint Cry, Soubize, Puuiant, Pills, and other chieftains, amounting to the number of eighteen Cornets of horse, and twenty leaven ensigns of footmen, who marching to join with the Prince, took by the way Dorat, Lusignan, and Pont Sur Yon, where they joined with the vanguard, led by the Admiral Chastillon: from thence passing by Sens, they took Bray, Nogent, Montereau, and Espernay. Thus did the Protestants still advance their affairs, the Catholics being not able to impeach or hinder them, notwithstanding all their practices and devices.  

Monsieur Duke of Anjou made the King's lieutenant general.  Now was Monsieur the Duke of Anjou, brother to the King by reason of the death of the Constable, proclaimed Lieutenant general over all his brother's territories and Dominions: who being assisted by the Prince de Nemours, Longaville, the Mareschall Cossy, Tauannes, Martigues, Carnavalet, Losses, and sundry other great Captains, was commanded to bridle the Protestants as much as might be. The Duke of Aumaile was sent into Lorraine, to join with the Marquis of Baden, who had raised a power of some three thousand horse, for the service of the King: and the Duke of Alva sent the Count of Aremberg, with a thousand and two hundred horse, and two thousand footmen Spaniards, and Burgonians, who should join with Monsieur against the Prince of Conde, 
The marquis of Baden, and the Duke of Alva send forces to Monsieur.  and the rest of the Confederates. The young Lonsac was sent to the Count Palatine, to hinder the levy of the Reisters, made by his son Cassimer, and now ready to march for the succour of the Protestants. Thus was there great preparation made on all sides to continue the wars, and to consume France with the flame of civil broils.  
The Prince being advertised of all this, hasted to meet with his Reisters, and with much ado being followed in the tail by the Catholics, at length arrived at Saint Michael: where he passed the River of Meaux, and so entered into Lorraine, still proceeding forwards until he came as far as Mouso●, where he met with Cassimer, and his Almains, 
The Prince of Conde meeteth with Cassimer, & his Almains.  who accompanied with the two young Countess of Barbie, the Count Holo, the Mareschall of the Palatinate, Scomberg, and many others of great reckoning and account, had long expected the coming of the Confederates. After some stay made for the refreshing of their wearied troops, they determined to return towards the pleasant and fertile fields of the Flower de Lis, there to assay if they could bring their enemies to any honest, and reasonable conditions.  
Monsieur had speedy intelligence of the return of both Armies, wherefore he sent great numbers, both of horsemen, and footmen, to stop all the passages, and amongst others, commanded the Duke of Nevers with his Italian bands to defend the Rivers of Merne, Seyne, Yon, 
The Duke of Nevers appointed to stop the passage of the Almains into France.  and sundry other places. And that if he could not hinder their course, yet he should annoy them by all possible means, to the end that being wearied and wasted so much as might be, his excellency might fight with them afterwards in gross, with more advantage.  
The Protestants minding not to foreslow their business, dislodged from Chalons, and marched towards the head of the River of , and so leaving Comercyon on their right hand, passed over at Marne, and went towards Chastillon, where they were assailed by certain troops of Italians, and French, who set upon the tail of the army, to cause them to hasten their pace. But Scomberge, 
Certain Italian troops overthrown by Scomberg  being sent with part of his own Regiment, assisted by some few of the French, gave them such a furious charge, that he wholly defeated them, and brought their colours to the Prince. The army was forthwith advanced, and marching through Hurepoise, by Bleveau, and Montargis, arrived at last in Beausse, and encamped before Charters, which they determined to besiege, for that it was very rich, and well able to relieve the army with many necessaries.  
The coming of this great power encouraged diverse▪ who had kept them selves close, to put forth their heads, and to attempt many things in favour of the Confederates. Those of Languedocke, Provence, and Gascoigne, were presently up in arms under their leaders, Sipteres, Montbrun, Mo●●ans, Senas, B●urinq●et, Rapine, Montacut, and sundry other Chieftains, and suddenly surprised Nismes, Montpellier, Saint Marcell, Saint Esprit, Saint jean, Bove: all which they fortified for their greater profit and security. The Catholics were not idle, but sought to catch whatsoever they could come by, which might any way tend to their advantage. Montaret governor of the Country of Burbonois, with Terride, La Valette, and Monsales, surprised certain troops of the Protestants, whom they quickly defeated and put to flight. Mascon was taken by the Duke of Nevers. Mouluc likewise took certain Isles in Xainctoigne, and prepared all necessaries to besiege Rochel, one of the principal retreats of the Protestants. The Count Martinengo, Richleu, and sundry others, besieged Orleans. Thus were they in every corner of France up in Arms, and no man knew where to be safest from the violence of the soldiers, and men of Arms.  
Now were all things in a readiness for the siege of Chartres, 
Charters besieged.  so that having raised their mounts, and planted their artillery, they began to beat the City, in very terrible and furious manner: and having overthrown their Towers, battered their houses, and made a sufficient breach, they were ready to give an assault, and to assay the getting of the Town by main force. Ligneres one of the Knights of the order, was Captain of the Town, who endeavoured by all means to keep the same in despite of the Confederates, and with great celerity repaired in the night, whatsoever had been broken, and thrown down in the day: and so wisely and politicly prevented all the stratagems of his enemies, that it was not possible for the Prince to effect his intended purpose. But the King understanding that they could not long hold out, and being not able to remove the siege, thought it best to offer the Prince a peace: which after many meetings was at length concluded. The principal effect whereof was, 
The King offereth a peace, which is accepted by the Prince.  that every man should quietly enjoy his Religion, and from thenceforth never be troubled for their consciences. This being agreed upon, (though contrary to the liking of many of the Prince's best friends, and principal Captains, who still cried out, that the King would break his promise, as soon as he espied his advantage) and proclaimed in the Camp before Charters, the Army broke up, and every one was licensed to departed home into his own Country.   

CHAP. XI.  
The third civil wars. The battle of Bassac where the Prince of Conde is slain. The Prince of Navarre chosen General of the Protestants. The death of Dandelot. The death of the Duke of Deux-ponts. A great victory of the Protestants. Monsieur dissolveth his army. The siege of Poitiers.  
NOw was France once again reduced to a quiet estate, and who would not have thought, but that after so many bastonadoes, 
The third civil wars.  every one would have been glad to have nourished the same by all possible means, and to have learned by their former miseries to beware, how they entered into new troubles. But such were the wicked counsels of some turbulent spirits, that they could not endure any quietness, but gave daily occasions to fill the whole land full of new broils and uproars. The two late reconciled factions were continually very jealous each of others proceed, one blamed the other for not accomplishing such conditions as were agreed upon, and so solemnly sworn on both sides. The catholics alleged that the Protestants had not put all their strong towns into the king's hands, according to the tenure of the Articles of the peace lately agreed upon: that Rochel did fortify itself, and would not receive the Catholics into their former offices and dignities: 
The complaints of the catholics.  that they rigged ships, and made themselves strong at sea, and that without the king's knowledge: that Coqueville levied many soldiers for the aid of the prince of Orange, contrary to the pacification made before Chartres. All which things could not be attempted without the knowledge of the confederates: & that which was most strange of all, they practised to levy soldiers in Germany, & other places.  
The Protestants complained, 
The complaints of the Protestants.  that they could not be permitted freely to use their consciences, according as it was conditioned. That the Catholics did still retain the Swissers, and the Italian bands, and placed sundry strong garrisons in those towns which were of the Religion, and that such which had lived in exile, could not return to their houses without imminent peril of their lives. Alleging withal, the horrible murders, robberies, and other execrable facts, committed upon the persons, and goods of those of the reformed Churches. These with some others were the reasons which animated both parts to stir coals, and to begin the wars afresh.  
The Catholics knowing Rochel to be a very strong place, sought by all cunning devices to make themselves masters thereof, and with fair promises intermingled with threats, laboured to persuade them to receive a garrison of the Catholics, but they would in no case agree thereto, but still drove them of with new delays. Tauannes was commanded to surprise the Prince of Conde, 
The prince of Conde in danger to be taken by Tauannes.  who was then in Noyars. But he being advertised thereof, departed in great haste, with the Princess his wife, the Admiral, and some hundred horse: and passing over the Loyer, went into Poictou, where increasing his forces, by the coming of Verac, Soubize, Anguilier, Saint Cyre, and Puuiant, at last arrived at Rochel, in despite of all his enemies, whither not long after came the Queen of Navarre, 
Conde cometh to Rochel, whether the Queen of Navarre also repaireth  with the young Prince of Barn her son. Where there was forthwith a Council held for the managing of their future actions. The rest of the Protestant Captains, as Dandelot, Mountgommery, La Nove, and others, being advertised of all these stirs, gathered what forces they could, and marched towards Rochel, with great speed, taking by the way, Partenay, Niort, and Mail, which proved afterward very advantageous for the Confederates. Angolesme, Pons, S. john d' Angely, and Tallebourg, were likewise surprised by those of the reformed Religion, so that now many good towns were again at their devotion and commandment.  

Monsieur made lieutenant for the King his brother.  The King being advertised of all these designments, declared Monsieur the Duke of Anjou his brother, his Lieutenant general: who dispatched forthwith Letters and Messengers into all parts, to assemble Bannes and Arierbannes, and to command all gentlemen, and others to be in a readiness at the time appointed, at Estamps, where he had proclaimed the Rendezvous, there to attend the further pleasure of his excellency. The protestants assembled soldiers on all sides, especially in Languedoc, Provence, and Dauphivy, under the conduct of Colonel Acier, Montbrun, and Saint Romain, who had gathered some sixteen or seventeen thousand footmen, and seven hundred horse, and were marching toward the Prince, who expected their coming at Chalons. This new supply did marvelously strengthen the confederates, and encouraged them to proceed on in their enterprise, and to seek their enemies, who now were grown to an head, and ready to march under their leaders and conductors. After many attempts on either side, and that both the Armies had endamaged each other, by the taking of sundry towns, and afflicting the poor Country, with a thousand miseries, both Generals resolved to try their fortunes by an entire battle, as soon as occasion was offered. With this resolution Henry Duke of Anjou, having intelligence, that the Lord Pills was coming toward the Prince of Conde, with a new supply of soldiers, led his army through Poictou, Lymosin, and the Country of Angoumois, and descended alongst the River of Charente, as though he would take Chasteaunef, there to pass over the water, and to bar Pills from joining with the Prince. Which when the Confederates understood, they passed Charente at Cognac, with purpose to prevent the Army of the Catholics: who having gained Chasteaunef, repaired the Bridge, which was in the possession of the Protestants, and made an other with Boats.  

The battle of Bassac.  The Admiral being appointed to impeach the making of these new bridges considering he was not able to effect that which he desired, retired unto Bassac, ordaining Soubize, Puuiant, and other troops of Poictou, to favour his retreat. The Prince (all things being well considered) was not willing to resolve of a battle, and therefore willed the Admiral to dislodge with the avauntgarde, and to be with him at Farnac the next morning by the break of the day. Which in no wise could be performed by all: for the companies led by Puuiant, could not march so speedily, the Catholics being at their tail, and so strongly pressed them, that they could not be disgaged, but with the hazard and peril of all the Protestants. For the footmen of his excellency having passed a River, doubled their pace to gain a little hill, which was a place of some advantage: from which they discovering how small a company the Admiral had, advanced still forward, knowing that he could not retire, without the entire loss of all his troops. By this time Puuiant was so far engaged, that had not La Nove, and La Love, who made the retreat of the Auauntgarde with forty Harquebuziers, speedily come to his succours, he had remained at the mercy of his enemies. But when as they had with all their devoir succoured them in their need, they were forthwith compelled to defend themselves upon the bay of a pond, where they were so lustily charged by Martigues, Malicorne, and others to the number of five of six hundred horse, that La Nove, and La Love were taken prisoners, 
La Nove & La Love taken prisoners.  and all their bands entirely broken, and defeated. Puuiant having charged, and finding himself too weak, retired to the rest of the footmen. During these hot skirmishes, sundry of the Catholics were advanced forwards, whereof some two hundred came hard to the village: whom when the Admiral and Dandelot discovered, being ignorant of the overthrow aforesaid, for that the village hindered their sight, they resolutely charged: and Dandelot being foremost with his cornet, gave in so furiously, that he made them all to run amain, 
Dandelot maketh the Catholics to run.  leaving behind them Monsales, and thirteen others dead upon the place. Dandelot pursued them hard to the village, from whence he was no sooner returned, but those Catholics being backed with 1200. arquebusiers, re-entered more strongly accompanied then before. Whilst things passed on after this manner, all the rest of the troops of the Catholics began to show themselves, every regiment taking his place for the last encounter.  
The Prince of Conde being advertised of all this, and of the danger that the Admiral with all the Auauntgard was in, if they were not speedily succoured, advanced himself with those few horsemen of his battle, which he tumultuously assembled in that uproar, the rest being dispersed into several quarters here and there, hasted to the rescue with all the speed that might be. Each General began now to seek his advantage, and to prepare himself to the fight. The Admiral espying that Monsieur came fast on upon the left hand, which was the means to enclose the Protestants between the river, and the army of the Catholics, commanded Lafoy Tover to bring the companies of the avant-garde further forwards: which he did, and bore himself so, that his horse being overthrown, he was taken, and being known to be the man that had slain captain Carry at Paris, was killed forthwith, 
La Tover slain.  besides many others, who had no better fortune.  
The army Catholic still stretched itself forth upon the left hand, towards the troops of Soubize, Languillier, Puuiant, Cressomere, and the rest of the Chieftains of Poictou: who thinking it not convenient to expect any occasion for a better charge, seeing the enemy reinforce himself more and more, assailed the foremost Troops with such fury, that they made them recoil: but by reason of new supplies which were sent continually, Soubize, and Languillier were taken prisoners, 
Soubiz, and many other taken prisoners.  Mesauchere, Brandamere, and many others were then slain. In the mean time his excellency desirous to break them on all sides, brought a great part of his army an other way, purposing to enclose them, who kept the bay of the pond, and to assail them on the back. But this pretence being espied, the confederates, who had maintained the advantage of the ground a good while, thought it best to retire into a place of greater safety. Whilst the fight was thus hotly continued on either side, the Prince of Conde with three or four hundred horse, gave a hot charge upon the Catholics: and being chafed to see his men in rout, and the whole army to bear itself no better, flung in with such fury, that he bore to the ground, or made to run all that were before him, until such time as his horse being wounded, he was overthrown, and not able any longer to do any thing for the blows he had received: and because he was not succoured with a fresh horse in time, seeing his enemies to press sore upon him, he yielded unto Argence, and Saint jean, who promised to save his life: but Montesquion (as some say) passing by at that instant, shot him into the head with a pistol, whereof he died forthwith. 
The prince of Conde slain.   
Now was the disorder exceeding great among the Protestants, who having lost their General, began to fly as fast as they could, and to get out of the danger of their pursuing enemies. The Admiral and Dandelot, seeing the fight irreparable, and the affray so marvelous, retired with a few of the nobility unto S. jean d'Angely, and from thence to Xanctes, 
The admiral and Dandelot fly to Xanctes.  to the young Princes of Navarre, and Conde. There died in this journey of Bassac, besides the Prince, La Tover, young Chasteliere,, Portant, Chandemer, Mesauchere, Brandaniere, Tabariere, Barette, La Mesteray, and above fifty other Gentlemen. Stuard a Scot was slain with a dag, and diverse other died shortly after of their wounds, Puuiant, Soubize, Languillier, Corbeson brother to Montgommery, La Nove, La Love, and Guerchy the ensign bearer of the Admiral were taken prisoners. But shortly after Soubize found the means, to deceive his keepers, La Nove, was exchanged for Sessac Lieutenant to the duke of Guise. Corbeson and Guerchy were set at liberty, upon their faithful promises. The whole number of the Protestants that were slain in this battle were almost four hundred, and some two hundred Catholics, 
The number of those who we●e slain at the battle of Bassac.  and among them were Monsales, the Barons Ingrand, and Prunay, the Count de la Mirande, de Morette, Mo●canure, Linieres, and certain others of mark. Monsieur sent the King word forthwith of the victory. Who presently advertised the Pope thereof, sending him some of the ensigns, who caused them to be set up in Saint Peter's Church, from whence he went in procession with all his Cardinals to the temple of the holy Ghost, to give thanks for so joyful success: and so did likewise the Venetians, and duke of Alva: thinking that all the Protestants in France had been wasted and consumed.  
But the Admiral with the principal of the confederates, gave them quickly to understand, that the matter was likely to be far otherwise then they imagined. For they gathering together their dispersed forces, fortified Cognac, Angolesme, Pos, Saint Gean d'Angely, and other places, wherein they planted strong garrisons to amuse the army of the Catholics, until the coming of the Duke of Deux Ponts, who was already marching with a great power, to the relief of the confederates. And having chosen the young Prince of Navarre for their General (who promised to spend his life in defence of their cause, 
The prince of Navarre chosen general of the protestants after the death of Conde.  and never to abandon them, until an assured peace were established) reviewing their troops, which amounted well near to forty thousand horse, besides their footmen, provided all necessaries to begin the wars afresh, and if it might be to repair their former losses. Dandelot was sent into Poictou, to view the strength of their forces in those quarters, and to gather as much money as possibly he could, for the payment of the Soldiers: where after he had very wisely and politicly advanced his business, and gotten good store of gold and silver for the maintenance of the wars, in his return fell into a burning fever, 
Dandelot death of a burning fever.  whereof he died shortly after at Xaincts, to the unspeakable grief of the Admiral, and all those of the reformed Churches. He was very valiant politic, and passing skilful in all warlike affairs: provident to foresee all dangers, courageous and hardy in all his enterprises, liberal, 
The praise ●f Da●delot.  courteous and affable, and therefore wonderfully well beloved of his soldiers, who thought themselves able to encounter with any whatsoever, so long as they had him for chieftain and commander: and therefore they bewailed the loss of him as of their father.  
The Duke of Deux Ponts, who was hasting to the aid of the Protestants, 
The Duke of Deux Ponts cometh to aid the protestants with a great power  had in his army seven thousand and five hundred Reisters, and six thousand Lansquenetes, with whom were joined the Prince of Orange, the two Counts Ludovicus and Henry his brethren, with a small band of their followers: besides Moruilliers the marquis of Revel, Fequieres, Cleruant, Movy, and Esternay, with certain culverins, six field pieces, and a good number of Musqueters: with those companies he got forward as fast as he might, still gaining ground, and approaching the territories of France, notwithstanding all the hindrances and lets which were given by the Duke of Aumaile, who with a great power was appointed to stop the passages, and to bar this Almain Duke out of the fertile country of the Flower de Lis: but that could not be, for still he passed forth, and at last rested himself before La charity, a town of great importance, 
La Charity besieged and taken by a composition.  and situated (as it were) in the heart and bowels of France. The Town was very straightly besieged, and planting his battery, he beat the walls in such furious manner, that those within being not able to hold out, and despairing of any succours in time, yielded upon composition, to have their lives saved, and so was it sacked and spoiled by the Lansquenetes. 
La Charity sacked.  The taking of the town was no small advantage to the confederates, as also the loss thereof did much hinder the fortunate course of the victorious Catholics, who now began to consult how to impeach the two armies, that they should not meet and unite themselves together: but do what they could the Duke still advanced forwards, passed through Lymosin so far as Cars, where falling sick he died of a quartain Fever, tooth exceeding grief of all his friends and followers.  
The Princes being advertised of the coming of the Duke, and the taking of La Charity, hasted to meet them, leaving La Nove Captain in chief over Poictou, Rochel, and other places under their obedience: and joining with the Germans at length near unto Cars, were not a little glad in their hearts, albeit they were mightily crossed by the death of their principal and chiefest leader. 
The death of the Duke of Deux ponts.   

* The Protestants had in their army some ten or twelve thousand horse, and twenty thousand foot men.  When all the confederates were joined together, they first sent a supplicatication to the King, desiring a peace: but when they could not be heard, nor those miserable wars which had so long tormented poor France, could have any end by fair means, they proceeded on, and purposed to assay if by fine force, they could compel their enemies to any honest and reasonable conditions: the better to effect this, they determined to get as many strong towns as they could into their hands, as well in the Country of Lymosyn as other where. But the Army of his excellency was now so strongly reinforced with the troops of the Duke of Aumaile, as also with one thousand and two hundred horse, and four hundred footmen, all Italians, and under the conduct of Saint Fior, nephew to the Pope called Pius Quintus, that they did continually coast them, & maintained sundry brave skirmishes with the confederates, barring them from executing many of their enterprises, and at length each Army meeting together near unto Rockabeville, had almost tried their quarrel by an entire battle: for Monsieur having encamped upon a goodly plain, and entrenched his army round about in most defensible manner, saving at one corner, placed there a strong Corpse du guard (composed of the two Regiments, sometimes commanded by the valiant Count Brissac, and now led by the two Captains La Barthe and Goas, who still lamented the death of their generous colonel) to defend that quarter from all sudden invasions of the Protestants. This Guard was quickly espied, and the Admiral advertised thereof, who was very desirous to remove them further off: but for that he did not well know their strength, he thought it good to deal warily, and to go with all his whole forces to this exploit, being a matter of so great importance, purposing to enterprise further if occasion served. Whereupon all the troops were forthwith arranged and put in battle array: the Admiral assisted by Beaunois, La Nocle, Briquemant, Soubize, La Nove, Teligny, and others, led the vanguard followed by their several Cornets, and a great Hot of Reisters, conducted by Count Ludovic, brother to the Prince of Orange, who were flanked with the Regiments of Beaudisne and Piles, and on the left hand with Rowray & Poville: a strong battalion of Lansquenetes backed the avant-garde, which carried in the front eight field pieces. The battle marched after, led by the Prince and Rochfaucont, with the aid of the Prince of Orange, Count Henry his brother, and the Count Mansfield, flanked likewise with another battalion of Lansquenetes, which guarded the rest of the field pieces.  
Thus went the Protestants very well appointed to assail the two Regiments, who being advertised by their Vedetes or espials of their approach, prepared themselves against the invasion of their enemies. It was not long before the Enfans perdus of either side began the game, and were followed very lustily by the rest of their associates.  

A great victory of the Protestants.  Though the Catholics were but a few in respect of the Protestants, yet remembering their former honour (for they were esteemed the bravest and valiantest bands of all the whole Army) and being animated by the Colonel Strozzi, did lustily maintain the fight, and would not give an inch of ground, thinking to be succoured in time by his excellency. There was a long and terble fight, and many were slain on both sides: but this Corpse du guard being overcharged with the multitude of Confederates, was (in the end) wholly overthrown and put to flight. Colonel Strozzi was taken prisoner, 
Strozzi taken prisoner.  having lost his Lieutenant La Loup, with the choicest men of the Regiment, and 50. men of Mark at the least, and some four hundred common Soldiers. Monsieur not minding to hazard his fortune at that time, suffered the Protestants peaceably to enjoy their victory, and being counseled to break up his Army, and to distribute them in the garrisons until the 15. of August following, every one retired to their appointed places, 
Monsieur dissolveth his army.  leaving the confederates to range up and down at their pleasures, who forthwith got Tivieres, S. Sulpice, Confolant, S. Genais, Chatelerand, Lusignen, and many other places, so that now fortune began to smile upon them more than at any time before, and marvelously to favour their proceed: and seeing themselves masters of the field, and that there was no man to make head against them, they resolved to besiege the strong Town of Poitiers. 
The Protestants besiege Poicters.  With this determination they marched forwards, and encamped before the chief City in Poictou, seeking to add that likewise unto the rest of their conquests.  
His excellency being advertised hereof, sent forthwith the new Duke of Guise, 
The Duke of Guise sent to defend Poitiers.  commanding him to put himself within the Town, and in any wise to keep it from the Protestants, who accompanied with the marquis De Main his brother, Ruffec, Onoux, and sundry others his followers, entered Poitiers, where after he had viewed the walls, and considered of all necessaries requisite to endure a siege, he fortified the Town with the advise of the Count Lude, the Governor of the Country, as strongly as could be devised, the better to maintain it against the enemy, who not long after approaching, first gained the suburbs, and sundry other places of advantage, notwithstanding all the impeachments given by the Guise and other Catholics. Then raised they their forts, cast up their mounts, entrenched themselves, mounted their ordinance, and beat the Walls, Towers, and Bulwarks, in all terrible and furious manner that might be. Those within stood valiantly to their defence, and by often sallying forth and skirmishing, endamaged the assailants exceedingly, who by reason they were men of courage and resolution, they maintained their own for a long while. But in continuance of time, after the loss of many of their forwardest Soldiers, they began to keep in more close, and were content to hold whatsoever was within the Walls, and for that victuals began to wax scant, by reason all the passages & ways were so stopped, that nothing could enter for the relief of the besieged, they thrust out many of their unnecessary people, and spent their victuals among the rest as sparingly as might be: and yet for all that they were brought to that extremity, that they were forced to eat their horses, asses, and dogs, 
Great penury of victuals in Poitiers.  and to fill their hungry maws with many course meats, yea, such was their misery, that they thought it impossible to hold it for any long time, and therefore were ready to yield up the Town, had they not been dissuaded by the Duke of Guise, the Count De Lud, and some few others, who vowed to spend their goods, lives, and whatsoever they had, rather than by yielding unto their enemies, to blemish their honour and reputation: but all this served to little purpose, had not Bidolier the youngest brother of the Count De Lude, by a witty and ingenious devise, 
The ingenious devise of Bidolier.  stopping the Channel of the River, caused it to disgorge itself over all the low meadows which lay on the side of the City, by which means the confederates were utterly disappointed of their hope, and that at such time as they thought all had been theirs.  
Now began the affairs of the Protestants to go backwards, and every day to be crossed more and more: for shortly after their victuals failed them, and great multitudes of their armies fell sick, and no small number were grievously wounded and hurt: the Admiral himself fell into a desperate disease, 
The Admiral dangerously sick.  and all men thought he should never have recovered. Rochfaucont, Acier, Briquemant, Beawoise, La Nocle, and others of special account were so sickly and weak, that they were forced to remove from the Army, so that not one of them (except the Admiral and Acier) were able to be at the battle of Montcounter.  
All these miseries being considered, as also the coming of Monsieur to raise the siege, 
The Protestants raise their siege before Poitiers.  the Admiral with the advise of all the principal men in the Army, resolved to discampe, and to leave Poitiers, to the great comfort and rejoicing of all the catholics: and to watch the Army led by his excellency, who was now marching towards Chatelerand, to the end to gain it from the Protestants. His whole power consisted of 10000 footmen, 3000. Reisters, one thousand Italians, and two thousand French horse: with these forces he besieged Chatelerand, 
Monsieur besiegeth Chatelerand  which he so beat with his great Artillery, that the breach being found reasonable, every man cried to the assault. The Italians who had the honour to advance first, went very bravely forwards, and made countenance as though they would have entered at that instant: but the valiant and noble La Love, one of the Mareschalles of the Camp, and an especial man among the confederates, having the keeping of the Towns, gave him such a welcome, that after the daughter of many of their forwardest leaders (as Fabian de Mont, Octavian de Montalto, Malatesta a Colonel, and above two hundred others) they retired in haste to free themselves out of such peril. Monsieur being dismayed with this loss, 
Monsieur raiseth his siege.  and understanding that the Admiral with his whole army was at hand, thought best to remove his siege, and to departed to a place of more security, and there to stay until he had assembled the rest of his troops. The protestants being quickly informed hereof, pursued him at the heels, and often skirmished with him by the way, until they came to a convenient place, and fit for an entire fight, where they presented the battle: but his excellency refused, reserving himself for a more fortunate time.   

CHAP. XII.  
The Battle of Montcounter.  

The battle of Montcounter.  AFter some small reposing of his wearied and tired bands, and that his Army was reinforced by the coming of fresh Soldiers, so that he thought himself able to match the Confederates, he again returned towards them, purposing to try it out by some bloody fight, as soon as any opportunity was offered. The young Princes, the Admiral, and the rest of the chiefest Protestants, were quickly advertised of his intent, who for that the advancement of their affairs consisted principally in celerity and expedition, as also in assailing their enemies, whereby they did the better maintain their honour and reputation, and likewise the importunate desires of the Almains, who were continually crying upon the Admiral that they might fight, determined to accept the journey, assoon as it was offered in any fit and convenient place.  
They had not marched long, but they came to the plains of Saint Clere, not far from Montcounter, which his excellency understanding, caused his troops to amend their pace, purposing to stop their course, and to compel them to a general combat, which was a thing that he much desired.  
The Admiral who commanded all, by reason the Princes were but young, 
The order of the Protestants battle.  finding the plain (afore said) to be a convenient place to darrain the fight, arranged his battles in the most convenient ground he could choose, and there expected the coming of his enemies: and having sent Movy and Saint Auban with certain Cornets to discover the Catholics, he in the mean time lodged his Ordinance upon certain little hills, and made the battle which was led by Ludouick Count of Nassau to advance more on the right hand, to whom were delivered three Cannons and one culverin. The advauntgard was on the left hand, led by the Admiral himself, assisted by Puygreffyer, La Nove, Teligny, and certain others, backed with the Count Mansfeild, and a great battalion of Reisters, besides the Lansquenets conducted by Cranuilliers. All which having kissed the ground after their accustomed manner, swore to secure each other, and to die in the place rather than to give one jot of ground to their enemies. These were likewise flanked on both sides with the Regiments of the French arquebusiers, led By Pills, Rowray, Briquemant the younger, Amb●es, and Chellar: the whole army consisted of 6000. horse, 8000. arquebusiers, 4000 Lansquenets, six Cannons, two culverins, and three muskets.  
His excellency with the direction of his best advisants, 
The order of Monsieurs battle.  divided his whole forces into a vanguard and a battle: the advantgard was composed of Frenchmen, Almains, and Italians, led by the Prince Dauphin, the Duke of Guise, Martigmes, Chavigny, La Valette, the Count Westemberg, the Reingrave Bassompier, Saint Fior, Paul Sforza, Disci, Santelle, with well near three thousand horse: The gross battalion of Swissers which consisted of four thousand, was led by Colonel Clere, flanked with five Regiments of arquebusiers, Frenchmen and Italians, under the conduct of La Barthe, Sarlabois, Onoux, and sundry others: over all these commanded the Duke of Montpensier. The battle was composed of the Dukes of Aumaile and Longaville, the Marshal Cossy, Tauannes, the marquess of Villiers, etc. with three thousand horse, and another Count Mansfeild cousin to the Protestant, and five Cornets of a thousand or a thousand and two hundred horse. The marquis of Baden had well near a thousand horse under his leading: these were flanked with the Spaniards & Burgonians, which the Catholic K. had sent to the aid of his brother. All these had their Enfans Perdus in their front, who carried death engravem in their foreheads, as well for themselves, as for whomsoever they first attached. All this Army which consisted of above nine thousand horse, 17. or 18. thousand footmen, and 15. pieces of great ordinance, was commanded by his excellency, 
Duke Montpensier chargeth the Protestants.  and being ready arranged, awaited when the sign should be given, but first they fought a far off with their great shot, which for that it was skilfully directed by the cannoneers, made a sore slaughter on both sides. This thundering and terrible noise was no sooner ceased, and the Artillery retired, but the Trumpets sounded Dedans, dedans, and the Duke Montpensier, went resolutely to the Charge, and gave in so hotly upon Movy and his Regiment, 
Movy with his bands defeated.  that he being abandoned by his two Cornets of Reisters, who were appointed to second him, was forced to get him as fast as he could out of the danger, and to save the greatest part of his troops among the footmen: who being mightily dismayed with so piteous an accident, lost their hearts, and disbanding themselves, ran all away for the best game. Now began the Duke of Guise with his associates to come lustily forwards, and in their appointed quarter to charge their enemies: who received them with equal courage, so that there grew a very warm fight on both sides. The arquebusiers whom the Admiral had interlaced among his French Lances, played the men, and set of the Catholics at their pleasure, knowing they were well assured by their horsemen, who served to guard them at their need.  
The Admiral, who by reason of his great experience in the wars, both at home and abroad, 
The princes withdraw themselves from the battle as secretly as they could.  and the diligent marking of so divers events as had run before his eyes, judging of the sequel by this unfortunate beginning, counseled the young Princes to retire as covertly & with as small a train as they could: but many whose eyes were prying about, and glad to take any occasion to be gone, espying the retreat & coveting to enfranchise themselves from so great peril as was present before their faces, would needs accompany them whether they would or not, so that they had quickly more attendants then either they expected or desired.  
By this time was the rest of the advauntgard which was led by the Admiral and Acier, hotly charged by the Reisters Catholics, who so furiously encountered them, that many ended their days at that instant. The Admiral himself was in such danger, 
The admiral hurt, and in danger to be taken.  that he was hurt in the face, through the default of such as should have covered him, and was so far intermeddled among the Catholics, that had not Count Mansfeild with four or five cornets of Reisters disgaged him, he had undoubtedly fallen into their hands who loved him but a little.  
While these bloody broils were continued between the advantgards, his excellency caused his main battle to dismarch, the right wing whereof, in which was the Duke of Aumaile, and the marquis of Baden with all his Reisters, gave in so far afore the rest, that the marquis was there slain, 
The marquis of Baden slain.  and many others for, companions of that mortal charge: and Monsieur himself, albeit he marched full upon the discovery of the great Artillery, made such haste, that he left the Swissers under Colonel Phiffer, and their general Memie, with the other battailon very far behind: which when the Protestants troops discovered, they casting themselves desperately into his esquadron, breaking in even hard to their Cornet, made them that followed his excellency to abandon the place: notwithstanding, all the devoier of the Duke De Longaville, Tovannes', Carnavallet, Villars, and others, who endeavoured with all their might to repel the insisting confederates: in a word, this charge was so terrible, that the most assured Ensigns began to turn head, and had not the marshal Coss with his Swissers hasted apace, the battle had quickly been at an end.  
Count Lodowicke seeing the Mareschall advance, thrust in very lustily with his troops of Almains and French, who sought it out most courageously. By this time had the Mareschall Byron rallied diverse dispersed troops, and with his own, which as yet remained unbroken, and the Swissers, went directly towards the lansquenets: 
A great carnage among the Lancequenets.  but they being abandoned by their horsemen, and shrewdly galled with the arquebusiers, were exposed in a manner to the cruelty of the Swissers, their ancient enemies, who entering in as it were at the breach, committed a wonderful carnage and mortality among them. Of four thousand there escaped not passed some two hundred, or there abouts. And the same misfortune had fallen upon three thousand Frenchmen, which were arranged with them, had not Monsieur of a generous and noble nature contenting himself with the honour of so glorious a victory, commanded to save their lives.  
And this was the end of this great battle, where both the French men, Almains, Italians, Burgonians, Swissers, Flemings, and lansquenets had leisure to try their valours at the full. The Protestants lost at this encounter, three thousand lansquenets, and a thousand five hundred Frenchmen. 
The number that was slain on both sides.  There perished also of men of name, Tavigny, Pugreffier, Dantricourt, Byron brother to the Catholic, and Saint Benet, the ensign of the Admiral's company. La Nove, and Acier, were taken prisoners, and their Reisters lost all their Wagons. Of the Catholics there perished some five or six hundred horsemen, and twice so many were grievously hurt, whereof the most part lived not long after. The Count Rhinegrave the elder, the Marquis of Baden, and Clerimont of Dauphinie, were slain. The young Reingrave, the Earls of Issi, and Santelle, Italians, with the Duke of Guise, Scomberg, Bassompcer, and de Maille, were sore wounded, but afterwards recovered.   

CHAP. XIII.  
Saint jean d'Angely, besieged and taken by the catholics. The king offereth a peace, which is refused by the Protestants. Monsieur de Bellegard is slain.  
THe loss of this battle gave a marvelous check to the affairs of the Protestants, 
A great alteration in the Protestants affairs.  who now were driven to forsake the champaign, whereof they were masters not long before, and sundry of their followers began to shrink, thinking that all had been lost, and many good Towns which before favoured their proceed, fell quite from them in devotion, and followed the good fortune of the victorious Catholics. So mutable and changeable are these earthly matters, and are set in so fickle an estate and condition, that one would think, that even God himself, who guideth and governeth all with the eye of his providence, were delighted with an alternative course, and continual change in all things.  
Albeit the affairs of the Protestants stood but in a desperate estate, yet like men of great courage, wisdom, and policy, they would not shrink from the cause, but sought as it were to begin the game afresh, and by all means to maintain their honour and credits with all their associates. And (if it might be) to repair their losses, or at the least, to keep that which remained in their possessions. Whereupon they fortified sundry towns, as Niort, Angolesme, Saint jean d'Angely, Rochel, and others, with assurance that the worst of these were sufficient to stay the Catholics, if they should happen to attempt them, until they had gathered some new forces. They also wrote letters, into all quarters, to assemble new troops, and left nothing unattempted, which might any way tend to the advancement of their affairs.  
His excellency following his good fortune, took forthwith sundry good towns, as Parthenay, Niort, Lusignen, Fontenay, and some others, all places yielding unto him of their own accord: so that he never stayed his course until he came before Saint jean d'Angely, 
S. jean d'Angely besieged by the Catholics.  whereof the Lord Pills was Governor. And having summoned the Town, and they within returning an answer that liked him not, he forthwith planted his siege, and placed his Cannon, and with marvelous fury plied the battery. And for the greater terror of the besieged, the King, the Queen mother, the Cardinal of Lorraine, 
The K. and Q. mother come to the camp.  accompanied with a great troop of Nobles and Gentlemen their attendants, came to the Camp, who were saluted with a thundering peal of Ordinance, intermingled with sundry volleys of small shot, besides many fireworks, and warlike devices, as well to welcome their Majesties, as to daunt and dismay the besieged Protestants. But they as men resolute to maintain their lives and liberties, encouraged each other valyauntlie to abide the fury of the Catholics, and laboured day and night to repair the breaches. Yea, they resolutely stood to their tackeling, and so Souldiourlyke bare themselves, that after many hot skirmishes, and desperate assaults, being men of noble valour, and commanded by a generous and courageous Chieftain, 
S. jean d'Angely yielded upon condition  the King was content to take the town upon composition, and to offer them honourable conditions, promising them leave to departed with bag and baggage, with their ensigns displayed, and to be safely conducted whither soever they would. But before the King could bring them to this pass, 
1570  he had spent a long time, lost the valiant Martigues, Def, fans one of the masters of the Camp, with many other most singular and brave leaders, and well near ten thousand common soldiers. So that this siege gave the Catholics as shrewd a check, as that of Poitiers did the Protestants.  

The King inclines to a peace.  The King being greatly wearied with these broils, began of his own accord to incline to a peace, supposing in deed, that those of the Religion would accept of any conditions. But they being too often before beguiled with fair words, would not hearken thereto, lest the world should think, that they were no longer able to maintain their cause: a special plot (said they) to discountenaunce the rest of their proceed. 
The Protestants refuse a peace.  Whereupon both the Catholics, and Protestants, still continued to vex each other in all hostile manner. The Count de Lude, and Puygalliard, recovered Marans, Browages, and many other Islands from the Confederates, which were again regained by La Nove, and strongly fortified for the further advancement of the affairs of the Protestants. Who prevailed also very mightily by Sea, taking many great prizes, which were no means to further their designments.  
Whilst things fell out in this manner about Rochel, the Princes, the Admiral, and the rest of the chiefest of the confederates, had greatly increased their forces, and hasted to join their troops with Montgommerie, Moubrune, and other Chieftains, who had gathered a great number of arquebusiers, to supply those bands, which had been broken at the battle of Mountcounter. And having thus reinforced their army, they marched towards Lorraine, there to attend the coming of their Almains. And as they passed through Languedocke, and came near unto Mountpellier, La Love, one of the Mareschals of the camp was slain, as he was fast asleep in the dead of the night, through the great negligence of the Sentinels,, 
La Love slain through the negligence of the Sentinels.  who being suddenly surprised by the garrison within the Town, were the cause of the death of this brave Chieftain, who for his valour, courage, and noble conduct, was highly commended of all the Protestants.  
Many towns were gained by the Princes in these quarters, as Lunell, Nismes, 
 Margarite, Saint Ambrose, Saint jean, Saint Private, Bezouze, Castillon, Al●ts, with sund●y other of good importance: by which happy exploits, the confederates did begin afresh to countenance themselves, and to recover much of their former honour and renown. When as the K. was advertised of all their designs, and how that they daily increased their forces, surprised many castles, & strong holds and were now almost joined with their Reisters, with whose aid they resolved to return again into the heart of France, and peradventure once more to besiege the capitol of all the Kingdom, he dispatched forthwith the Mareschall Cossy, with an army, wherein were 4000 Swissers, 6000. French arquebusiers, some 3. or 4000 horse, and twelve great pieces of Ordinance, with which forces he marched towards the princes, 
Marshal Cossy sent against the Princes.  who were encamped at a place called Saint jean, in Burgundy, with some 2500. arquebusiers, 2000 horse, and eighteen cornets of Reisters. These two armies came no sooner in view each of other, but that their Enfans perdus begins the game, so that there was a hot skirmish on both sides. The Prince of Berne, and Conde, were there in person, each of them in the front of their Regiment, and resolutely bend to go to the charge, and there to make the first trial of their fortune. The fight continued long, and many were slain: but the Catholics having the worse, after they had lost Monsieur de Bellegard, 
Monsieur de Bellegard slain.  one of the Knights of the order, besides diverse others of good account, were forced to suffer the Protestants to pass, who hasting on their way, after great trouble, and a long and painful journey, having in a manner rounded all France, at the last they drew near to La Charity, Sancerre, Antrin, Vezelay, and other Towns of the Religion, where they defended themselves to their marvelous comfort and contentation. Now was the treaty of peace before mentioned reiterated, and earnestly pursued by diverse, who persuaded the King, 
The King persuaded to a peace.  that these intestine wars consumed none but his Subjects: that the murders, robberies, burnings, and such like miseries, would be the confusion of the whole state, and that who so ever gained, yet he lost, to the great impoverishing of the Crown of France, and the utter destruction of that noble kingdom, which had been the paragon of all Europe.  
These and the like reasons induced the King at length to condescend to a peace which was accepted by the confederates, and published in the year 1570. to the great comfort of all the French, and exceeding quiet of the whole land: where we may see the strange and wonderful mutability of men's minds, which as they are not long contented with one & the self same estate: so do they seldom or never like the better, before they have been well scourged with the rod of their own folly, and taught by woeful experience how to discern between good and bad.   

CHAP. XIIII.  
Peace proclaimed in France. The marriages of the King, the Duke of Montpensier, the Duke of Guise, and the Admiral. The Queen of Navarre goeth to the Court. The Admiral goeth to the Court. The death of the Queen of Navarre.  

Peace proclaimed.  THe king's Edict for the establishing of a peace was no sooner published, but that the forces on both sides were forthwith licensed to departed every man to his own house, which he had not seen for a long time before, to the unspeakable joy of the protestāns, & no small comfort to the better and honester sort of the Papists, who as mariners that have escaped some dangerous & troublesome tempests, and are arrived safely in their wished port, held up their hands to heaven with giving thanks for so unspeakable a blessing, and earnestly entreated the almighty, that they might spend the rest of their days in peace and quietness.  
The Princes with the Queen of Navarre, and sundry of the chief of the Protestants, as the Admiral, the Count Lodowick of Nassau, Teligny, La Nove, and diverse other withdrew themselves to Rochel, for their greater security, until they might see how the king's Edict would be executed. Now began there a great alteration in the minds of the French, & all men's actions were suddenly changed (as a man would have thought) after a strange & wonderful manner. For where as not long before there was no talk, but of hatred, wrath, murder, bloody broils, and most cruel and unnatural wars, now was there nothing so much spoken of, as love, amity friendship, and making of marriages. The King was espoused to Isabel the second daughter to Maximilian the emperor, 
The King marrieth.  whose nuptials were solemnized with great pomp and magnificence. Lois of Bourbon and Duke of Montpensier, married with the Duke of Guise's sister, 
Duke Montpensier marrieth.  and the Duke of Guise matched with the widow of the late Prince Portion, 
D. of Guise marrieth.  one of the principal of the Confederates▪ The Mareschall Cossy, and Prontiere one of the secretaries of estate, were sent unto Rochel, to treat with the Queen of Navarre, as touching a marriage, between the Prince of Barn her son, and the Lady Margaret the kings sister: a thing in show highly tending to the honour of the Prince, and the establishing of a perpetual peace and amity with the Confederates. The Prince of Conde was married to Marie de Cleves, 
The prince of Conde marrieth.  the youngest daughter to the Duke of Nevers: the Admiral with the daughter of the Count of Entremont in Savoy, 
The admiral marrieth.  and the young Teligny with Lois of Colligny, the Admiral's daughter: thus was there nothing but feasting, banqueting, singing, reveling, and making of love, throughout all the parts of France.  
The king seemed to stand highly contented with this peace, and began daily more and more to countenance the Protestants. For having once persuaded the Queen of Navarre to come to the court, 
The Queen of Navarre goeth to the Court.  both he, the Queen mother, the Dukes of Anjou, and Alenson, the King's brethren, did entertain her in most loving and friendly manner, making her the best welcome that might be imagined. Count Lodowicke, brother to the Prince of Orange, who attended her, was likewise very honourably received by the King, who promised him to aid the Prince his brother against the Spaniard, and for that purpose had commanded preparation to be made both by sea and land, as though he had intended to begin the wars with all speed: so that the King desired nothing more than to advance the affairs of the Protestants. The marriage of the young Prince of Barn, and the conquest of the low Countries, were the things that the King seemed to affect most. And because the Admiral was a very wise man, an old Soldier, the best experienced Captain of all France, and most skilful in warlike affairs. The King sent the Mareschall Cossy, to Rochel, to persuade with him to come to the Court, and to assist his sovereign in so honourable an enterprise, the Admiral at the first was very unwilling of himself, and had daily advertisements to dissuade him from that voyage. 
The admiral goeth to the Court.  But after many persuasions used by the Mareschall, sundry friendly messages from the King, and his fatal mishap (as it were) leading him thereunto, he suffered himself to be gained, and to be wooed, by those who indeed loved him but a little.  
He was no sooner come to Paris, but the people flocked together to see him, 
His entertainment.  as to see a wonder. The King received him with much kindness, giving him great honour, calling him father at every word. And when the Admiral kneeled, the King arose and took him up, protesting that he was the most welcome man living: and that never any day was more joyful unto him than that, wherein he did see the end of so many miseries, and the beginning of peace and quietness for the whole land. And among many other speeches, he chanced to utter these words. Now we have once gotten your company, you shall not departed from us: and this he uttered with great laughter, as a token of much joy and delight. The Queen mother, his excellency, the Duke of Alenson, and all the principal Courtiers welcomed him, with far greater honour than he expected: and that which was more: all these courtesies were accompanied with the great liberality of the Prince, who gave him an hundred thousand pounds in recompense of his losses sustained in the former wars, besides the revenues of the benefices which were belonging to his brother Odet the Cardinal of Chastillon, who was lately deceased in England. He was also admitted into the King's privy Council. His son in law Teligny, was very much honoured. Cavagnes was made one of the masters of the requests: and to be short, all the Admiral's friends tasted of the king's liberality, to the great contentment of the Protestants, and the marvelous grudging of the Catholics.  
This honourable dealing, gave great hope of the continuance of the peace, and the increase of amity amongst the French Nation, in so much as the most rested secure, reposing themselves in the faithful promises of their prince: yet many suspected that all was but holy water of the Court, and alluring baits to catch the poor Protestants, and afterwards to dispose of them as should be thought for their most advantage: following (said they) herein the old maxim in policy, which is that where the skin of the Lion will not serve, there it is best to put on the fox's coat. The Queen of Navarre was earnestly dissuaded by sundry letters from many other friends, from giving her consent to the marriage. The Admiral was likewise advertised by secret messengers, that in no wise he should go to Paris, nor come within the reach of his enemies: but all would not serve, so desirous were they of the young prince's preferment, & so marvelously blinded at that instant. But whilst the Queen of Navarre was at Paris busied in providing for the marriage of her son, she suddenly fell sick and died the 10. of june, 
The death of joan of Albret Queen of Navarre.  1572. to the great grief of those of the reformed religion▪ who exceedingly bewailed the death of so virtuous and constant a Lady, and one that had been a most noble maintainer of the truth all her days.   

CHAP. XV.  
The Massacre at Paris.  
THe sudden death of this Queen, bred a sore suspicion, that she was poisoned, and withal brought some delay the to marriage: but at length all doubts being cleared, & both parties agreed, the time appointed for the solemnizing of the nuptials being come, the young King of Navarre and the Lady Margaret were affianced with great solemnity, in our Lady Church in Paris, by the Cardinal of Bourbon, the 18. of August, 1572. in the presence of the King, 
The marriage of the King of Navarre.  the Queen mother, the Duke of Anjou and Alenson, the Prince of Conde, with all the principal protestants. The marriage ended, there was nothing but banqueting, cheering, tilting, and all the devices that might be to please the eye, and delight the ear, & to set forth all things in most royal and magnificent manner. All old rancour and malice seemed to be buried in the pit of oblivion, by reason of this new alliance, which confirmed the hope of a most blessed peace in the time to come. But in the midst of all this joy and solace, there fell out a sudden accident, which astonished some, and made others to bethink themselves, and to suspect the worst, and that was this.  

The admiral shot with an harquebus.  Upon the 22. of August, as the Admiral was going from the Court toward his lodging, he was suddenly shot with a harquebus out at a window of the house, where Villemus (who had been schoolmaster to the Duke of Guise) did usually lodge, and sore wounded with three Bullets, as he was going a soft pace in the street, and reading a Supplication, which had been delivered unto him a little before. One of the Bullets struck off his forefinger, and with the other he was wounded in the left Arme. The Admiral pointed to the house from whence the piece was shot, and willed some of his Gentlemen to go search who was within: sending Captain Pills, and Captain Monius, to advertise the King of his hurt.  
Whilst he was led home by the lord Guerchy & another gentleman: the door, of the house being broken open, the harquebus was found, but the harquebuzier was fled out at a back gate, and finding a spanish Jennet which was there provided in a readiness, galloped away with all speed, crying as he went, that now there was no Admiral in France.  
Captain Pills finding the King at ●ennis with the Duke of Guise, 
The notable dissimulation of the King.  related unto him the Admiral's hurt, which he no sooner understood, but he leaving his play, threw down his racket, & looking very pensively, went to his Chamber: the king of Navarre, the Prince of Conde, the Count Rochfaucont, and many other Lords, knights and Gentlemen of the Religion, being informed of this mishap, went presently to visit the Admiral. The King taking with him the Queen mother, 
The king goeth to visit the Admiral  his two brethren, and most of the principal Catholics went likewise to comfort him, showing many signs of great sorrow for his harm, complaining that indeed the Admiral felt the harm, but the dishonour was done to the King, upon whose faithful promise he was come to the Court, and therefore both he that had committed the fact, and all that consented thereto should be most severely punished, to the example of all other villainous and notorious malefactors: whereto the Admiral answered, that he would leave the revenge to God, and the execution of justice to the King, but as for the author he was known well enough, and because he could not tell how long he had to live, he besought the king that he might talk with him in secret, touching things of very great importance, and such as were most necessary for the state of the Kingdom. The King seemed to be willing herewith, but the Queen mother by a devise broke off their talk for that time, so that there was no further conference: and because the king of Navarre, the Prince of Conde, and divers others, moved the king that they might have leave to carry the Admiral to his house at Chastillon, which was some two days journey from Paris, as to a place of greater quiet and security: the king not willing to condescend thereunto, answered, that so long a journey would very much endanger his health: and therefore he thought it better to have him lodged in the Lowre near unto his own person, where he should be safe from all peril: furthermore he willed all the chief of the Protestant Nobility, to place themselves as near him as they could, in case that if there were any need they might be ready to secure one another, and appointed the Mareschall Cossy with a band of arquebusiers to guard his lodging. 
The wolf appointed to keep the Lamb.  Upon the Saturday, which was the twenty three of August, the council sat about the examination of certain witnesses touching the fact, and sundry other suspected persons, taking great pains (as it seemed) to boult out the truth, as though they meant to punish the offender with all rigour and severity. With these and the like appearances, the protestants held themselves well satisfied, never suspecting that all was but dissimulation and that so great mischief did hang over their heads.  
The same day there was a sudden rumour over all the City, that the king had sent for the Mareschall Memorancy, commanding him to come to him with all the forces he could make, and therefore the Parisians were best to stand upon their guard: but all was found in the end to be utterly false. Teligny being given to understand by the Admiral's trumpeters that there were six cart loads of Armour brought into the Lowre, answered that he did not like that men should be so suspicious without cause: for his part he was well assured of the King's good favour, and wished other men were so likewise, seeing it was not possible that there should be any harm intended towards them whom the king had honoured so many ways. and had oftentimes so solemnly sworn to remain their gracious and loving sovereign.  
But the king with all those of his secret counsel, seeing that they had now brought all things about even as they had desired, and that the Admiral was taken in a trap and all his principal associates, so snarled in their nets that it was impossible for them to get out, thought it high time to put in execution that which they had purposed so long before, and at that instant to finish the days of all the Protestants. Whereupon a signal was given in the dead of the night by the touling of a Bell in the Lowre: which was no sooner heard by Cossy, who (as is already said) with a band of arquebusiers guarded the Admiralles lodging, but that he commanded his men to break open the doors, and to kill as many as they sound in their ways. The Admiral hearing the noise and fearing some seditious enterprise, willed one of his Gentlemen to call to the guard which was appointed him by the King, little imagining that it was they that came to offer him such violence, and arising out of his bed, put on his night gown, and kneeled down to pray.  
By this time were sundry of the murderers gotten in, & had slain such as they found in the house. The first that entered into the Admiral's chamber was one Besme an Almain, a desperate ruffian, one of the Duke of Guise's household servants, who with his drawn sword in his hand, said: Art thou the Admiral? who answered with great constancy, So I am called. Which he had no sooner uttered, but that Besme run him through with a sword, and another called Atinius, 
The Admiral murdered.  shot him into the breast with a Pistol, and the rest as Causius and Sarlaboix, stabbed him with their daggers, and threw him out at the window, to the Duke of Guise and Aumaile, and the Chevalier of Angolesme (who was King Henry his bastard) all which stood crying out to make a quick dispatch, and would not depart thence until they were assured of his death, and for that he was so bloodied about the face by reason of his wounds upon his head, that it was hard to know him: the Guise kneeled down and wiped away the blood with his handkerchief, and seeing it was he whom they looked for, cried out, that they had made a happy beginning, willing them to proceed for it was the King's pleasure, and that the K. commanded them to spare none of the Hugonots: and this he uttered very often and with a loud voice. A certain Italian cut off the Admiral's head, and having embalmed it, sent it to Rome as a present to the Pope. 
The Admiral's head sent to Rome.  Some cut off his hands, and others his secret parts, and having trailed his body through the streets, hung up his dead carcase on a gibbet at Mountfaulcon: and this was the lamentable end of this noble Gentleman, 
The great commendation of the Admiral.  who for his wisdom, policy, courage and constancy in the profession of God's truth, and maintenance of the same, was one of the most excellent and famous men that ever was bred and brought up in France.  
The same day that the Admiral was hurt, the king advised his brother in law the king of Navarre, to cause some ten or twelve of his trustiest friends to lodge near him, the better to defend him if the Duke of Guise (whom he termed a shrewd boy) should happen to attempt any thing against him. These Gentlemen and some others who were lodged in the king of Navarre's outer Chamber, after the death of the Admiral, and that they were disarmed by Nancy, having their swords and daggers taken away, were brought to the gate of the Lowre and there were murdered before the king's face. Then were the king of Navarre and the Prince of Conde brought before the king, 
The king of Nau●r●e and the prince of Conde brought before the king.  who told them that he would not suffer any more Religions in his Land then one, and therefore if they loved their lives, they must now become Catholics and go to mass, for he meant not to bear with them any longer. The king of Navarre made a very submiss and humble answer: but the Prince of Conde, who was of more stout and courageous nature, replying otherwise then the king expected, was threatened with the loss of his head if he relented not within three days, and so was sent to prison, being first called obstinate, seditious, and rebellious traitor, and the son of a rebellious traitor.  
Now began the Courtiers with the king's guard, who were appointed to massacre the Protestant Nobility, to kill and murder all sorts in most outrageous manner. The Count Rochfaucont 
Count Rochfaucont.  so greatly beloved of Henry the second for his conceited and pleasant humour, adorned with so many excellent graces and noble virtues, fit for a perfect courtier, was forced to yield up his life to these merciless wretches, who saluted him with this piteous god-morrow. Teligny de Montrevill, 
Teligny.  the Admiral's son in Law, and for his humble and mild spirit, graced with a singular dexterity in the managing of all public affairs, very dear unto his Wife and prudent Father, was seen of many, but no man was so hardy as once to touch him, until at last a stranger that knew him not, ran him thorough with a Rapier, as he was bewailing the death of so many brave men. The Baron of Pardaillon, 
The barons Pardaillon.  the Baron of Pills, 
Pills.  Soubize, 
Soubize.  and Puuiant, 
Puuiant.  all very famous and worthy men, having been commanders in Chief, and well worthy for their rare virtues of better fortune, were there murdered after a most disloyal and treacherous manner. The marquis of Revel 
The marquis of Revel.  was hotly pursued as he fled in his shirt towards the River side, and there was slain by Bussy of Amboise his near kinsman. Monsieur the king's brother, at the request of Archan, the Captain of his guard, who was amorous of the Lady Chasteneray, sent certain soldiers to kill La Force her father in law, who had thought that they had likewise slain both her brethren: but there was but one found dead, and the other being very sore wounded, escaped by reason he was covered with the dead body of his Father, where he remained until the evening following, and then secretly conveyed himself into the lodging of the Mareschall Byron his kinsman: which when his sister Chasteneray understood, being sorry that she could not be heir as she earnestly desired, she went to the Mareschals house, feigning that she was marvelously glad that her brother had so escaped, desiring to see him, that she might comfort him: but the marshal smelling her intent, would not bewray where he was, and by that means saved his life.  
By this time was the signal given to such as commanded over the common people, to make dispatch of the rest of the Protestants, who being in a readiness, and encouraged by the Duke of Guise, Aumaile, and Nevers, slew every one that fell into their hands: yea, they so greedily thirsted after innocent blood, that in a short time they had made such a marvelous carnage and butchery, 
The carnage and butchery in the City.  that the streets seemed to be paved with dead carcases, and Carts were laden with the bodies of men, women, and children, which were thrown into the River: death and desolation walked about in every corner of this City, and that in most ghastly and grievous manner, to the extreme horror and dread of every beholder. There was nothing but weeping, wailing, and lamentation, and a most woeful and fearful cry throughout the whole City.  
About the break of the day, the Duke of Guise, Nevers, and Aumaile, brethren in evil, 
The Protestants in saint Germans escape by flying away.  and the chiefest authors in that piteous tragedy, went to awake sundry of the Protestant Nobility, who were lodged in the suburbs of Saint , as the Vidame of Chartres, the Count of Montgommery, the Lord of Fountenay, Caumont, Columbiers, and many others, who being advertised of that which had happened, supposed at the first that it had been some uproar of the people and therefore purposed to have gone to aid the King, fearing there had been some danger towards his person: but on the sudden they discovered 200. armed men, and those of the king's guard, who cried, kill, kill, shooting at them, and that in the king's sight, who also (as is reported) took a harquebus, and swearing and blaspheming in most heathenish manner, cried out, shoot, shoot, 
The king helpeth to murder the Protestants.  God's heart, they fly, they fly. As those of the reformed Religion saw this, they fled with all possible speed, leaving whatsoever they had behind them, being pursued by those three Dukes before remembered. The Bastard of Angolesme and divers others (who wounded some, and had killed many, had they not been hindered by the negligence of the Porter, who mistook the keys of the gates where they should have issued forth) was the occasion that the Protestants had some little time given them to provide for their better security.  
They were no sooner gone, but the Swissers of the king's guard, and sundry courtiers spoiled their houses, killing whomsoever they found, & cruelly murdering both man, woman, and child: all that day, being the 24. of August, 1572. was spent in massacring, ravishing, & sacking, so that there perished by this turkish and barbarous villainy, above 10000 persons, as well noble men as Gentlemen, 
The number of Protestants slain in Paris.  precedents of courts, counsellors, advocates, scholars, preachers, physicians, proctor's, merchants, artisans, women, maids, and children. All places were full of dead carcases, the thresholds, gates, and posts of the king's palace were painted with the blood of the slain: yea, the channels overflowed therewith, and the water in the River was turned into a red colour: such and so horrible was the slaughter and butchery which was made upon the poor Hugonots. The king, the Queen mother, the king's brethren, with many Lords and Ladies of the Court, went out in the evening to view the dead bodies, and among others the Queen mother would needs see the nakedness of Soubize, 
The shameless fact of the Queen mother.  for that she had been informed that he was notable to get any children.  
The king not satisfied with the slaughter of so many brave men within Paris sent letters to the Governors of all his principal Cities, as Orleans, Tours, Meaux, Angiers, Bourges, Tholoux, Lions, and divers others, that they should likewise kill all the Protestants within their jurisdiction: which commandment was forthwith put in execution, and a most horrible slaughter followed in all places, 
The number of protestants slain in other places.  which bereaved above a hundred thousand of their lives within the territories of France, in so much as that it was verily thought that all that were of the Religion were either slain, or else fled into foreign Countries.   

CHAP. XVI.  
Rochel holdeth out against the King. The beginning of the fourth Civil wars. The siege of Rochel. The siege of Sancerre. The Ambassadors of Polonia come to the camp before Rochel. Monsieur raiseth his siege.  
WHo would not have thought but that now the Gospel had been utterly extinguished in France, & that the Catholics by this execrable devise, should have attained to the full period of their desires, no man of name remaining to make head against them, or to cross their fortune which now seemed so mightily to favour their designs: and indeed the king was verily persuaded that at this present he might have accomplished whatsoever he would, and that not any durst have showed themselves to favour the reformed Religion. 
The K. deceived in his expectation.  Whereupon he wrote letters to sundry Protestant towns, commanding them to receive popish Garrisons, and to live after the Catholic manner, but they utterly refused to satisfy the king herein, and would not be induced to condescend unto any such thing, by all the persuasions that could be used, but fortified themselves as strongly as they could, purposing to die, rather than to yield and abjure their Religion.  
The King, partly by threatening and menacing the king of Navarre and the Prince of Conde, and partly by fair promises, but especially by the wicked ministry of Rosier, 
Rosier being a minister and of great credit with the Prince of Conde, had recanted his Religion, and by his persuasions caused the Prince likewise to deny his.  who of late was become an apostate, had caused them to abjure their Religion, and to conform themselves to the rites of the Roman church, and thinking them to be fit instruments to gain sundry strong Towns, who otherwise would not open their gates but by force of Cannon: caused them to write their letters to such as he thought meet, and to use all the seasons that might be to draw them to his obedience, by which devise some relented, and were content to follow the example of those great Princes, seeing they had no hope to maintain their cause, having lost all their chieftains and principal commanders. But Rochel, Sancerre, Montauban, Nismes, and some other held out, standing upon their guards, and providing to fortify themselves in all defensible manner that might be. Many persuasions were used to gain Rochel, 
Rochel and sundry other towns hold out against the King.  which of all other was the place of greatest importance, and that which the king most desired, as being the principal retreat of the Protestants. divers messengers were sent thither, who promised golden mountains: and Mareschall Byron endeavoured by all means to put himself within the Town, but they utterly refused to accept of any other Governor than their Mayor, purposing to maintain their Religion, customs, and liberties, and that with the loss of their lives. When the king was advertised hereof, and that he evidently perceived that fair means would not prevail, he resolved to besiege the Town, and by force of Arms to bring them under his obedience. Whereupon he commanded Byron to gather a great army, & to invest the Rochelers with all speed, who did not only by themselves cross the designments of the Catholics, but were the occasion that many other towns in Gascogne, Languedoc, Quercy, Poictou, Auvergne, and Dauphony began to pluck up their spirits, and to oppose themselves against the kings proceed.  

The beginning of the fourth civil wars.  Besides the forces that the Mareschall brought by land, there was a great navy of ships appointed to keep the seas, and to stop up the haven that no victual or other necessaries should be conveyed in by water, nor any be suffered to go forth to give any advertisements to their confederates. All things being thus appointed in a readiness both by sea and land, 
Rochel besieged.  the Duke of Antou the King's brother, and his Lieutenant general throughout all his dominions, departed from Paris the tenth of january, 1573. accompanied with the Duke of Alenson his brother, the king of Navarre, the Prince of Conde, the Du●e of Montpensier, the Prince Dauphin his son, the Duke of Longaville, of Bovillon, of Guise, of Aumaile, and of Nevers, the marquis of Maine, the mareschals of Cossy, Retts and Byron, the Count Rochfaucont, Chavigny, Mouluc, La Valetta, Mauleurier, Pau●y, Puygalliard, Clermont, Du Gas, Cosseines, with many other Lords, knights, and Gentlemen, who no sooner arrived at the Camp, but they were saluted with a thundering peal of great ordinance, and all the battalions of footmen stood ready arranged, who likewise welcomed him with their whole volleys of small shot, to the high contentment of his excellency.  
Monsieur understanding that there were a great number of very valiant and resolute men within the Town, who were all commanded by the noble and politic chieftain Monsieur de la Nove, 
La Nove.  of whose wisdom, courage, and valour he had often times before made good experiment, thought it best to assay if with smooth words & fair promises mingled with some threats, he could induce the Rochelors, 
The Rochelors would not trust the fair promises of Monsieur.  to submit themselves wholly under the King's obedience, assuring them, if they would so do, the king would deal most graciously with them, and requite their loyalty with such favour, as they should have good cause to hold themselves well contented: but if (on the contrary) they stubbornly refused to condescend hereunto, and like a rebellious rabble, wilfully reject, and undutifully contemn so great grace offered by their sovereign, than they should look for no favour hereafter, but for all the extremity that might be, and that he would not desist from persecuting them both with fire and sword, until he had taken their town, & seen such punishment inflicted upon them, as the nature and quality of so traitorous a fact required.  
Those within being taught by other men's harms to beware, & having learned by woeful experience not to trust any fair promises that came from the Court, seeing the king and all his Courtiers had so notoriously falsified their words in former times, thought it best to stand upon their guard, and not to be beguiled with such alluring baits: which when his excellency perceived, he commanded his army to approach nearer the town, to entrench themselves, to raise Mounts, to plant their Ordinance, and to annoy those within, as much as might be. The Canon was no sooner placed, but that it forthwith played upon the Town very furiously, and to the great terror of such as had not been acquainted with the like sport. Those of Rochel were not idle, but provided all necessaries to stop such breaches as should be made, and answering the Catholics with such shot as they had, often issuing out, and skirmishing with their enemies with notable courage and alacrity. Yea the women, maids, and children would expouse themselves to all hazard, 
The courage of the women  and adventure forth among the soldiers, carrying them wine, comfers, and such like: marvelously animating such as fought with their cheerful words, & hardy examples. And one among the rest so far adventuring that in the hottest of the skirmish, she seeing one of the Catholics slain, ran unto him and took away his sword, and harquebus, which she carried into the town with great triumph, and reioying, said, that she had adorned herself with the spoils of her enemies.  
The third of March, those within discharging a Minion from the Tower of S. john Evangelist, pierced one of the enemy's gabyons, and encountering Claud of Lorraine Duke of Aumaile, peer of France, and Lieutenant for the King in the Duchy of Burgundy, 
The Duke of Aumaile slain.  struck him stark dead, to the great grief of sundry of the Catholics, of whom he was very much beloved, for his many excellent and commendable virtues. And being incensed against the Rochellors for this fact, seeing they could get nothing with open force, thought it best to assay what they could do by a more secret means: whereupon they fell to undermining, & spent a long time in digging, and delving under the ground, endeavouring to blow up their walls, and to overthrow their towers & bulwarks, with gunpowder. But they within so nobly & valiantly defended themselves, and so politicly prevented all their stratagems, that they could not by any means accomplish their desires. Yea, they seemed so little to regard all their endeavours, that upon May day, in great jollity and triumph, they decked their walls, and towers: and with trumpets, drum's, flutes, and other musical and delightsome instruments, seemed to spend the day in mirth and solace, as though they little or nothing cared, for their enemies.  
Many, who secretly favoured the religion, seeing the great courage of the Rochellors, and their happy success in holding out so long a time again such a mighty power, began to pluck up their hearts, and openly to show themselves: So that now great numbers were up in Arms in Poictou, Xanctogne, Quercie, 〈◊〉, Dauphiny, and sundry other parts of the land: so that the Catholics, who thought that they had destroyed all the Protestants in their Parisian murders, found themselves marvelously deceived, and many signs appeared of new civil wars, and those as troublesome and dangerous, as any others before 〈◊〉. For now the King, and all the French Catholics, were grown so odious, both at home and among foreign Nations, that all the World spoke shame of their barbarous and strange cruelties: and such Protestant Towns as were strongly fortified, would not yield by any persuasion▪ 〈◊〉 distrusting in the king's word, who had so often and so notoriously falsified his 〈◊〉, to the great dishonour and stain of his princely dignity, and perpetual stain of the French nation.  
Whilst his excellency with a mighty power besieged Rochel, the Marshal Danuill lieutenant for the king in Languedocke, 
The marshal Danuill in Languedocke.  was sent to reduce all those quarters under the King's obedience: but he found it a matter of more difficulty than he at the first imagined, for albeit he entered the country with a strong power, purposing to besiege Nismes, a place of the greatest importance of all the rest, and by force to constrain it to stand at the devotion of the Catholics, yet was he in the end after some loss, at the least of thousand of his best soldiers, before a petty village called Sancerre, compelled to give over his enterprise, and to disperse his men into garrisons, the better to relieve them, and with all diligence to muster new forces to repair his broken troops. Which when those of Sancerre understood, 
The siege of Sancerre.  being notably encouraged by the surpassing valour of their Confederates, they resolved to endure the uttermost attempts of La Chastre, and all the Catholics, and therefore, whereas by reason of their long siege all victuals began to be scarce, 
The great famine in Sancerre.  necessity (the mother of all fine inventions) taught them to make many hard shifts, and to devise new and strange meats. For after that they had first eaten up all their Horses, Asses, Dogs, Cats and such like, they devised to make meat of their Skins, roasting, seething, and broiling them upon Girdirons, as if they had been Tripes, Mice, and Rats were accounted dainty delicates, and well was he that could get them. And being still pressed with hunger, they devised to make meat of old shoes, horns, horses and bullocks hooves, which had lain hid in the dunghills for many years: the little children would broil and roast their girdles to to fill their empty maws. Roots, herbs, and barks of trees, served in stead of iunketting dishes: whatsoever had any moisture. taste, savour, or smell, were it never so unwholesome, they eat it with greediness. And albeit they were often showed of the danger thereof, yet would they not take heed: for the belly had no ears. Yea, so intolerable was the famine, that they eat the very dung, especially of horses, which was accounted indifferent good, and therefore raked it together, as a thing of much price. The father and mother eat their own child, 
The father and mother eat their own child.  which was pined to death with hunger, & for so horrible a fact were both burned. It is incredible what misery was in that town, and yet they would not yield, nor commit themselves to the mercy of their enemies. But at length the famine still increasing, & having not passed 400. soldiers left, and those for the most part sickly, weak and wounded, and seeing no hope of any succours from any their confederates, were content to hearken to a parley, which was offered unto them by La Chastre, and so by composition to render the town, with the castle into the hands of the Catholics, 
Those of Sancerre yield upon composition.  who had spent at the least 5914 canon shot, for the gaining of the place, & lost some 1200, or 1300 men, besides a great number that were wounded and sore hurt.  
Albeit that the Rochellors had now for a long time very valiantly born themselves, and with their often skirmishes and sallying forth marvelously annoyed the assailants, insomuch as that beside the loss of a many common soldiers, and sundry of good account, his excellency had likewise been undoubtedly slain, 
The example of a faithful servant.  as he was going to view the Ours, had not one of his Gentlemen, whose name was Vius, espying the firing of the piece, by putting himself before his master saved his life, by receiving the bullet into his own body: yet their provision being well near spent, and the famine increasing very sore, they began to be marvelously dismayed, fearing some mutiny among the people: and the rather for that they had sound them very desirous to come to a composition with the enemies. But God did miraculously help them in this extremity, 
Rochel miraculously relieved.  by sending into their haven an exceeding multitude of muscles, cockles and small fishes, wherewith they plentifully stored themselves in despite of all the Catholics.  
As this extraordinary provision did mightily encourage the inhabitants to hold out: so did it not a little dismay their enemies, and made them much more enclinable to peace then before: for they having besieged the town for a long time, and endured much hunger and cold, hoping at last to gain it, as a recompense for all their labours, did now despair thereof, seeing it was so extraordinarily victualled, and as it were relieved from heaven. Besides, the Catholics themselves began to fall into want and penury, 
The miserable estate of the Catholic at the siege of Rochel.  their soldiers waxed sick, and many did daily drop away: their wounded and hurt men were so many, and so negligently looked unto, that it was a most pitiful spectacle, to behold so many lazars and maimed persons in one place, who for want of necessary attendance grew incurable: yea, the louse did so abound among them, that sundry were even eaten and consumed with them, and the rest became so filthy, that they would have loathed any to have seen them.  
About this time came the Ambassadors of Polonia to the camp, 
The ambassadors of Polonia come to the camp.  to signify unto his excellency, that he was chosen king of that country. Which dignity they humbly desired him to accept of, and with as great speed as might be, to hasten thither, and to take the government of them, who with all duty and obedience were willing to receive him as their king and sovereign. Monsieur being exceeding glad of this good news, and extremely weary of the siege, which had wasted so many of his bravest men, desirous to see an end of the wars in France, and to take possession of the Polonian Diadem, which he had so long thirsted after, was content to offer such reasonable conditions as the Rochelors liked of: 
Monsieur raiseth his siege before Rochel.  so that both parties being (contrary to all expectation) suddenly agreed, the peace was proclaimed in the later end of july, & the siege presently raised, to the unspeakable comfort of all those of the reformed religion. Wherein sundry have observed, and not without good cause, the variable estate of this inconstant world, which is ever wavering, and cannot continue long without change and alteration. For those who thought that every man would have bowed at their becks, and that the strongest towns in all France durst not once have made so much as any show to resist their power & puissance, did now see themselves in a manner overthrown by a handful of men, who not long before were at their wits end▪ and all their counsels brought to nought: so that they were forced (after the loss of many brave soldiers, and valiant captains, besides the expense of many thousands of Crowns, having lain before a little village seven or eight months) to departed with dishonour and disgrace, having gotten nothing but blows, wherewith they wasted and wearied themselves, and to seek some better place to refresh their weak and diseased troops.   

CHAP. XVII.  
Those of Quercie and Languedocke refuse peace. The Mareschals Memorancie and Cossy committed to prison. Mareschall Danuill joineth with the protestants, Montgommerie landeth in Normandy. Is taken and beheaded at Paris.  
BY the narration of that which is already past, every one may understand the interchangeable course, and vicissitude, both of the Catholic and Protestant affairs. And that as well the one as the other, had sufficient trial, of the ebbing and flowing of their fortune. Now let us see, if after so great experience of their daily calamities, brought forth and nourished by reason of their civil dissensions, they waxed any wiser, or more wary how to prevent future mischiefs.  
Although that many, as well Protestants, as Papists, were very glad of this late reconciliation, and with joyful hearts thanked the King for their desired peace: yet those of Quercie, Languedocke, 
Those of Quercy and Languedoc, refuse the peace.  and (in a word) all the Provinces towards the Levant seas, were not satisfied therewith: for that (said they) their enemies, and the authors of those execrable Parisian murders, were still the King's principal favourites, and nearest about his person: and therefore they were little assured of any security, but rather had cause to fear an other massacre, considering the king was ruled by such bad counsel. And further, that there had been many as strong Edicts, and as solemnly sworn as that at Rochel, and yet they proved but words without effect, and served but as nets to catch the poor Protestants: that with fraudulent and subtle devices, they had ever prevailed more than by open force: and therefore now it stood them upon (after so much schooling) to take better heed unto themselves, & to beware of the practices of those, who thirsted for nothing so much as for their blood, and the utter abolishing of their Religion, which they had for many years maintained with the danger of their lives: adding withal, that this last pacification was made but with some particulars, without their consent, and therefore that they were not bound to keep it, further than they liked of it.  
These and the like reasons were alleged by a great number of the Confede: rats, who having been often deceived, would not now so readily give ear unto fair promises, but meant to stand upon their guards, and as warily as might be, to watch the Catholics at every turn. And to the intent they might the better maintain their reputation, and with greater dexterity manage their affairs, they first assembled at Millava in Rovergne, 
The assembly of the Protestants.  and afterwards at Montaubau, where after long and mature deliberation, they established an orderly course for the rest of their proceed. And having gotten sundry strong towns, forts and castles into their hands, they flatly refused those conditions of peace, which the Rochellers had accepted, & fortifying themselves with a new association and league, began to annoy the catholics with open war.  

The mareschals of Memorancie and Cossy committed to prison.  The King being about this time incensed against the Mareschals of Memorancie and Cossy, committed them to prison, and suspecting the Mareschall Danuill, to be of their confederacy, deprived him of his Lieutenantship in Languedoc, and gave it unto the Prince Dauphin, son to the Duke Montpencier. Which when the Mareschall understood, he arranged himself with those of the Religion, seizing upon sundry strong towns, as Montpellier, Beucary, Lunell, and others, 
Marshal Danu ●l ●oyneth with the Protestants.  fortifying them with sufficient garrisons, and all other necessaries. There were also great numbers of the Catholics, who receiving small favour at the King's hands, neither were so rewarded for their services as they expected, grew maleconts, and seeing Monsieur the King's brother was departed into Polonia, they thought it now fit time to take their advantage, and by leaguing themselves with the Protestants, to reform the policy of the land, and to reclaim the king, who (said they) was wholly misled by the wicked counsels of such, as were strangers and enemies tooth Crown of France.  
They had also practised with the Duke of Alenson, the King's youngest brother, to take part with them, and found him not unwilling to become their leader, and general in this so haughty an enterprise. And where as the Rochellers would not for a long time be drawn to join with the rest of the Protestants, 
Rochel joineth with the rest of the Protestants.  & malcontents, at last through the dexterity and politic inducements of La Nove, a man of great credit among them, they were contented to be embarked into that action, and to provide all necessaries, for the maintenance of the future wars.  
The Confederates having all things thus in a readiness, attended the departure of the Duke of Alenson, 
The Duke of Alenson dissuaded from going in the Protestants.  the King of Navarre, and the Prince of Conde, from the Court, and for their better safety had sent some two hundred horse to Saint  in Lay: but the King being made privy hereof, and his excellency diverted by La Moly, the proceed of the Protestants were mightily crossed, for the time: howbeit, like men of courage, and resolution, they went forwards, and openly invaded the Catholics, both by sea and land. Montgommerie, who for a long while had been in the isle of Gersey, landed on the sudden in Normandy, 
Montgommery landeth in Normandy  joining with the Columbiers, and incorporating himself with the Norman troops, made sharp war upon the Papists, getting many towns and fortresses, which were very advantageous for the Protestants.  
Great preparation was made by the King, to withstand these proceed, and proclamation was sent out into all parts to assemble the Bannes and Arierbannes, and such was the diligence used herein, that there was quickly gathered together a sufficient number to make two armies, which the King presently divided, sending the one into Poictou, under the conduct of Montpencier, against La Nove, and the other under the leading of Mategnon into Bas Normandy, against the Count Mongommerie, who prevailed mightily against the Catholics, seizing upon sundry their best towns, and strongest holds, and ranging every where at his pleasure. But at last the Count coming to Donfron, was suddenly besieged by his enemies: where he was taken prisoner, being shamefully forsaken by his soldiers, and so was led away to Paris, and there had his head strooken off, 
Montgommery taken & beheaded,  the 26. of june, to the great rejoicing of the Parisians, and the exceeding grief of the Confederates.   

CHAP. XVIII.  
The King waxeth sick. Maketh a peace with his subjects. Ordaineth the Queen mother Regent of France, in the absence of the King of Polonia. His death. The end of the fourth civil wars.  

The King waxeth sickly  Whilst the Duke Montpencier besieged Fontenay, the King, who had now for a good while been sickly, and diseased, began to wax worse and worse, insomuch as the Queen mother fearing, that if he should die upon the sudden, there would be marvelous hurly-burlies at court, thought it best to send for the Duke, 
Duke Montpensier returneth to the Court.  whom she commanded to repair unto the king's presence withal speed: who thereupon broke up his siege, licensing his army to departed, and he himself hasted to the Court. There he found a strange Metamorphosis, for the king was now very desirous to end the wars, and to make a peace with the Protestants, and would have them favoured and protected as well as his other subjects: 
The king desirous to make peace with his subjects.  desiring, and that very instantly, all sorts to put to their helping hands, and to show themselves furtherers of so laudable a work. Commanding likewise his Lieutenants and governors in all his Dominions, to cause his former Edicts to be diligently observed, & to punish with all rigour and severity, who soever refused to obey this his commandment. The Queen mother did likewise labour very earnestly herein, 
The end of the fourth civil war.  and seemed desirous of nothing so much, as to establish a peace and quietness throughout all France.  
The King did still decay, and death hasted his pace to overtake him: so that notwithstanding all the means that could be imagined to escape so hot pursuit: yet there was no remedy, but needs he must be arrested, and called to account for his former actions. Which when with great perplexity of mind and sorrow of heart he perceived, having ordained the Queen mother for Regent (during the absence of the King of Polonia, 
The Q. mother made Regent of France.  to whom the crown of France as next heir did appertain) he yielded up his life the 30. of May, at Bois de Vincens, 1574. in the 13. year of his reign, and in the 24 of his age, having been the most bloody and cruel Prince, that ever did wear the French Diadem, And as he continually thirsted after the blood of the poor Protestants, so did he never cease vomiting and belching out of blood, all the time of his sickness, with most horrible swearing and blaspheming, until his last gasp, after a most strange and fearful manner. And this was the end of Charles of Valois, and King of France: 
The death of Charles the ninth, King of France.  who being by nature wicked, by education irreligious, and by ungodly and wicked counsel easily drawn into all kind of impious and barbarous actions, began with injustice, continued with cruelty, and ended in misery, leaving that noble kingdom so torn and dismembered, the Nobility so divided, and discontented, and the commonalty so oppressed, and impoverished, that the whole state, having lost the ancient splendour and dignity, was mightily shaken, and in a manner brought to a Chaos, and confusion, and hasted (as it were) a main pace to a lamentable change and alteration.   

CHAP. XIX.  
Henry the third King of France and Polonia. The Queen mother laboureth for peace, which is concluded for three months. The Prince of Conde goeth into Germany. Lusignen dismanteled. The King of Polonia stealeth away into France. The first civil wars. The Mareschall D'Anuill joineth with Protestants. Cassimer cometh to the aid of the Protestants. The Duke of Alenson departeth malcontent from Court. The end of the first civil wars.  
KIng Charles being dead, and his brother Henry king of Polonia, 
Henry the the King of France and Polonia.  declared heir to the Crown, during whose absence the Queen mother (as is already said) was proclaimed Regent: the Catholics began to insult more than ever before over the Protestants, and to use them in most outrageous manner, presuming upon the accustomed good fortune of their new king, and the resolute course of the Queen mother, to root out all those of the Religion, and to expel them out of the territories of the Flower de Lis. The consideration whereof did marvelously dismay many of the Protestants, and caused sundry who inwardly favoured their proceed, to pluck in their heads and keep themselves close, and to expect what would be the sequel of these new occurrences. There was great dissension at Rochel about these matters, and long it was before they would fully determine what to do: howbeit, at length through the manifold remonstrances of La Nove, they fully resolved to continue the wars, both by sea and land, as they had done in former times.  
The Queen mother knowing that the best way to pacify these tumults, and to restrain the Confederates from any further proceeding in the wars, was to use them gently, and by smooth words and fair promises to keep them in, until the coming of the new king, sent the Abbot of Gadagny to Rochel with letters to La Nove, 
The Queen mother writeth to La Nove.  in which (among other things) he exhorted him to live peaceably like a good subject, and not to vex the land with new troubles, in the absence of the king, who peradventure would be revenged thereof at his coming, although she knew that naturally he was a very mild and merciful Prince, and one that would maintain his subjects both of the one and the other Religion, in peace and amity, so far forth as possibly he might, & had already signified the same as well to herself and the principal officers of the Crown, as to sundry the greatest and chiefest Cities of the land. These letters with sundry persuasions used by the Abbot, induced the Rochelers to conclude a truce for three months. 
The Rochelors conclude a peace for three months'   
Mention was made before of the purpose of the Duke of Alenson and the king of Navarre to departed the Court, & to join with the Confederates, which albeit they attempted not, being diverted there from by the council of some of their friends, yet the late King had them in great jealousy, and therefore kept them (in a manner) as prisoners, setting spies to watch them and their actions: and for that he suspected the two Mareschalles of Memorancy and Cossy to be of their confederacy, he imprisoned them in the Bastile within the Lowre, and discharged the Mareschall Danuill brother to Memorancy of his Lieutenantship in Languedoc, giving it to the Prince Dauphin, son to the Duke Montpencier: and albeit the Prince of Conde, Meru, Thore, the viscount of Turin, Montagu and many others, were secret favourers of his excellency in this action, yet for that they were not discovered, the king suffered them to remain at their liberty, and sent the Prince of Conde into Picardy to look to the government of that Country, 
The Prince of Conde sent into Picardy, from whence he secretly conveyed himself into Germany.  who being advertised of that which had passed at Court, touching the Duke and the King of Navarre, and that there was a purpose to clap him up likewise, secretly conveyed himself into Germany, and forthwith made profession of the Religion, and so practised with the Princes and the rest of his friends in that Country, that he levied a great power of Reisters for the aid of the French Protestants, which when the Mareschall Danuill understood, he began to draw near to those of the reformed Religion than he was accustomed to do, and finding many discontented politics ready to join with him, resolved from that time forward to follow the matter with more earnestness, and to further their cause all that ever he might.  
Henry of Bourbon Prince of Conde, accompanied with many of the Nobility of both Regions, being at Heppenhem in Germany, and seriously busied in gathethering of forces to enter France for the relief of his associates, was informed of all the Proceed, as well of the Protestants as of the Mareschall Danuill, and the rest of the discontented politics, and understanding that he was chosen general over both sorts, accepted thereof, promising to employ all his credit, power, and authority to maintain them against all their enemies, under the obedience of Henry the third of that name, King of Poland and of France. Which when the Queen mother understood, she thought it best to offer a treaty of peace, and to hold all sorts in quietness, until the coming of her Son out of Polonia, whose presence she supposed would be a sufficient weapon to fight against all these practices and devices. hereupon she wrote letters to the Confederates, and especially to the Rochelors, to move them to embrace this negotiation of peace, whereby they themselves might live in greater security, 
The Queen mother moveth a peace.  and the whole Land be freed from civil and intestine wars.  
They returned a dutiful answer, desiring her majesty to deal with the Prince of Conde, who was elected the chief of the reformed Churches, and to whom under the King's obedience they had submitted themselves: and in the mean while furnished their Cities with all necessaries for their better safety. With which answer the Queen mother being nothing well pleased, sent the Duke Montpencier into Poictou with very great forces, who having taken Maraus, Noille, Nove, Charante, and divers other strong places, planted his siege before Fontenay, a Town of very great importance, which in the end he took by composition, and so gained all base Poictou, to the exceeding prejudice of the Confederates. He likewise besieged Lusignen, which being valiantly defended by the Lord of Fontenay, held out for a long time, yet yielded at the last upon reasonable conditions, after it had been besieged three months and twelve days, having lost some three and twenty Gentlemen, and two hundred common soldiers: 
Lusignen dismanteled.  the Catholics spent seven or eight thousand cannon shot, and left some eight hundred of their men dead before the Town, to make satisfaction to the inhabitants. The Towers and the Bulwarks were overthrown, and the walls dismanteled: and so in a short time one of the most beautiful and strongest holds in Europe was utterly razed, and remained as a perpetual monument of the Princes heavy indignation and displeasure.  
The king of Polonia being advertised of his brother's death by letters from the Queen mother, and that he was now become heir to the Crown of France, albeit he was quietly established, and a king over a mighty kingdom, which was every way both very profitable and honourable unto him, yet (as the nature of all men is, to love their own natural country more than another) he presently resolved to return home again, and as shortly as might be, to behold the goodly and pleasant fields of the Flower de Lis: but the great love and reverence which the Polonians bore unto him, (who having understood that the disease wherewith his brother Charles was afflicted was incurable, and that peradventure the Crown of France would quickly entice him out of Polonia) made them watch over him with so vigilant an eye, and to observe him so narrowly, that it caused him to doubt what course he should take to escape their hands: and being (indeed) induced by sundry strong presumptions, to think that they would in no wise condescend to his departure, & that it were but lost labour, yea, peradventure much harm to acquaint them with his intended voyage, determined to accomplish his purpose as closely and as secretly as he might, and to leave them his reasons in writing, of so sudden and hasty departure. Wherefore having disposed of all things which were requisite for the furtherance of this project, he first publicly dismissed Bellieure the French Ambassador, sending him home as one who seeing his master was dead, was now to be discharged of his office, and with him he sent the choicest Gentlemen about him, and the chiefest and principal jewels that he had. This being done, he made an exceeding sumptuous banquet to all the great Polonian Lords, and the Gentlemen in the Court, which being finished, and every man departed to his rest, the king himself went likewise to bed, as though he had purposed to have slept until the next morrow: but he had not rested long, 
The king of Polonia stealeth away into France.  but rising again & putting on disguised apparel, he passed through the watch with Halde one of the Gentlemen of his chamber, and mounted upon his horse which was ready for that purpose, and posted away from Gracovia with all speed, and shortly arrived in Austria without any let, notwithstanding all the extreme pursuit made by the Count Christophe, the Count Tancy, and many other Polonian Lords, and coming to Vienna was royally received of the Emperor, by whom he was conducted to the territories of the Venetians, who likewise entertained him in most honourable and magnificent manner, and so passing by Padova, Ferrara, and Cremona, entered into Piedmont, and so into France, where he was no sooner come but he found all the country full of troubles, tumults, and dissensions, and almost no corner free from cruel and bloody wars. 
The beginning of the fitf civil wars.   

The Mareschall Danuill and his designs.  The Mareschall Danuill began to stir coals in Languedocke, and daily to enterprise upon the Catholics, and to advance the affairs of the Prince of Conde and his associates, all that ever he might. The king finding such troubles in every corner of the Land, seemed to be very sorry, and sought by all means to establish a peace, and to that end wrote to the Prince of Conde and the Mareschall Danuill, who were the principal men among the Confederates, that they should signify unto him the causes of their discontentment, and then he would (as their king and sovereign) see them satisfied so far forth as might stand with equity and justice: whereupon both the Prince and the Mareschall sent their deputies unto the king and Queen mother, by whom their majesties were certified of all their griefs and doleances, 
The Prince of Conde and the marshal Danuil send their deputies to the king.  and the reasons that moved them to take Arms, which was (said they) to defend their religion, their lives, and liberties, and to maintain themselves both against their own enemies, and the sworn adversaries to the Crown of France, who being but strangers, ruled all at their pleasure, offering the greatest wrong and indignity that might be, and that unto the Princes of the blood, and cloaking their actions with a colourable show of Religion, set the whole Land in a combustion intending indeed the utter desolation thereof, unless they were speedily prevented, and some good course taken to stop their turbulent proceed.  

The King incensed to wars by the persuasions of his council.  The king seemed to give them a favourable hearing, as one willing to make a pacification among his subjects, whom he would have to live in love and amity one with another under his obedience: but by reason there were certain articles propounded by the confederates, which could not on the sudden be agreed upon, the peace was deferred, and the wars continued, whereupon there were new associations and leagues, and both parties stood resolutely bend to annoy one another as much as might be. Those of the Religion were animated by the comfortable letters of the Prince of Conde, who promised them speedy aid and assistance, & having recovered Saint jean D'Angely, with sundry other places of very good importance, they gathered some five hundred pistoliers, and a thousand two hundred arquebusiers, led by the valiant La Nove, wherewith they stopped the roads of their enemies, who had a long while harried and wasted the Country without pity or mercy.  
The king as it seemed, was of himself very inclinable to peace, and in a sort contented that the protestants should freely enjoy their consciences, and have public places allowed them for their preachings: but he had no sooner entertained the counsellors of the late king Charles, but that he was forthwith cast in a new mould: for albeit he were very earnestly solicited by the Ambassadors of the Queen of England, the Duke of Savoy, and the Swissers, to yield to some good agreement with his subjects, yet would he not be drawn thither with all the persuasions that could be used, but still maintained the wars, and in all hostile manner invaded those of the reformed Religion, persecuting them with fire and sword, with a full purpose to bring them to utter ruin and desolation: and being advertised of the great levy of Reisters which the Prince of Conde made in Germany, which amounted to the number of seven thousand and five hundred horse, and three thousand footmen, under the leading of the Duke john Cassimer, 
Duke Cassimer cometh to aid the Protestants.  son to the Elector Palatine, he sent Mareschall Byron into Lorraine towards the frontiers, to stop their passage, and to attend the coming of the Duke of Guise, who was mustering of men, and gathering of forces, and that very busily for the same purpose.  
As the king was thus devising how he might best withstand the Reisters, new troubles ensued, and a marvelous likelihood of greater and more dangerous stirs then at any time before, if they were not wisely and speedily prevented: for the Duke of Alenson the king's only brother and the second person of France, suddenly departed from the Court, 
The Duke of Alenson suddenly departeth from the Court, to the aid of the confederates.  and went to Dreux, being highly discontented with his strait keeping, which he accounted no better than an imprisonment: to whom the●e daily repaired great numbers of the nobility and gentlemen, both Papists and Protestants, and there openly showed himself a favourer of the Confederates. 
* The king of Navarre escapeth out of prison.  The king of Navarre who had likewise been shut up for three years, having liberty on a time to go to hunt in the Forest of Saint  in Lay, accompanied with the Duke of Espernon and many other Lords and gentlemen, so persuaded with them that they were not only willing to suffer him to go whether he would, but many offering their service to bring him on the way, never left him until he came to Samur, where he continued not long but he grew to that strength, that he cared little or nothing for his enemies. These two unexpected accidents did marvelously astonish the Court, and made the wisest of them well near at their wits ends: But the Queen mother, who earnestly desired to see some good agreement between her children, 
The Queen mother reconcileth her children.  accompanied with some of the Princes of the blood, the principal officers of the Crown, and the two Mareschals of France, Memorancy and Cossy, who were now delivered out of prison, went with all speed toward Monsieur, and never left him until she had first made a truce for nine months, and afterwards having granted unto him the Dukedoms of Berry, Touraine, and Anjou, for his better maintenance, besides many other things done in favour of the Protestants, the wars ceased, and a general peace was proclaimed throughout the land: which the Protestants hoped would be more permanent than any other of former times, for that it was granted by the king, who as yet had not violated his promise, 
The end of the fift civil wars.  and therefore they had no cause to doubt of him, especially considering that as one exempting himself from being culpable of the breach of the former pacification, he commanded that this should be termed by the name of his Peace, and therefore in all likelihood meant to have it duly kept and observed.   

CHAP. XX.  
The ambition of the Guyses. The house of Valois and Bourbon condemned at Rome. Monsieur forsaketh the Protestants. The beginning of the sixth civil wars.  
HItherto thou mayst perceive (gentle Reader) a marvelous strange alteration, and as it were a continual vicissitude in these French affairs. The original and progress, with the variable effect and incredible accidents, occasioned through the continuance of these woeful civil wars, are as it were in a glass, very lively represented before thy eyes. The due consideration whereof, and m●st needs make every one in whom remaineth any piety to tremble at the secret judgements of the almighty, and to be moved with a fellow feeling and commiseration of the woeful estate of our afflicted brethren in foreign Countries: so ought it to work an exceeding rejoicing, joined with most humble thanks, in the hearts of those, who enjoy a quiet estate and blessed peace, under a most gracious and merciful prince, with a continual invocation unto him who is the giver of so rich a treasure, not only to pour down (and that in most plentiful manner) such graces as are requisite for the beautifying and garnishing of so high a majesty, but also to assist her with such Religious, wise and peaceable counsellors as abhor a covetous humour, wherewith many have been possessed for the enriching of themselves, and detesting an ambitious and aspiring mind (a vice oftentimes but too much inherent in the natures of great personages) as are zealously addicted to the setting forth of God's glory, the service of his sovereign, and the peace and prosperity of the Commonwealth. The want whereof, as it hath evermore been the bane of many most flourishing nations, so hath it been the principal motive of such lamentable desolation as hath spread itself, and that in most outrageous manner, over the face of that noble Kingdom of France: where, albeit that some of the latter Kings have not been so virtuously disposed as were to be wished, which notwithstanding may peradventure in some sort be executed in regard of their minority and want of good education: by means whereof they have the more easily been induced to give their allowance to many most wicked and ungodly proceed: yet is it out of question, that the greatest mysteries which have there fallen out, have been hatched and brought forth by the devilish and pestiferous practices of sundry counsellors, who through the benefit of their good fortune and favour of their Princes, have attained unto great places, and had the managing of the whole state.  

The great ingratitude of the house of Guise.  Among others the house of Guise (as it is notoriously known unto the whole world) have faulted herein, in the highest degree that may be, who abusing those notable gifts which had made them commendable in the sight of their sovereigns, and highly esteemed of the people, and therefore aught to have drawn on an honourable ●●●●yage of themselves towards all sorts, but in more especial towards that house which had so honoured them above all families in France, have rendered evil for good, and sought by all unlawful and treacherous means to subvert those who have been but too ready to procure their honour and advancement. Which intolerable ingratitude of theirs, though it were prophesied on long before, by the great King Francis the first of 〈…〉 saying: 
The prophesy of King Francis.  That they would 〈…〉 into their doublets, and his subjects into their shirts: yet such was the careless security of the offspring of that prudent Prince, that they would not take 〈◊〉 unto those aspiring heads, but by giving them countenance and authority have mightily impaired their 〈◊〉 royal dignity, and 〈…〉 of this sharp and bitter prophesy.  
Francis Duke of Guise, assisted by the councils of that 〈…〉 associate Charles his brother, Cardinal of Lorraine, 
Francis D of Guise aspireth to the Crown of France.  had long since laid the plot, and cast in his mind how to effect this diabolical device, and to that end had set all France in a combustion by sowing division between the King and the Princes of the blood, and incensing the sovereign against his most obedient and dutiful subjects. And being grown very gracious among the French, by reason of his fortunate success in the wars, caused it to be secretly spread abroad among the people, that he was descended from Charlemagne, and therefore had some right and title to the Crown of France. And as though he meant one day to put in his claim, had so ordered the matter, that great numbers of the Nobility, and sundry of the principal Cities of the land, were wholly at his devotion: but he was cut off in the midst of his hope (as is already said) before orleans, and all his devices came to nought, saving that he left behind him a son, as haughty, as aspiring, and as ambitious as ever was the father, 
Henry duke of Guise his ambitious & turbulent nature.  and one that attempted greater matters than ever did any of that line.  
This man being grown into great credit with Charles the ninth, and likewise with Henry the third, so advanced himself by their favours, that he gave the law to France, and did every thing as he listed. And practising those rules which his father and uncle had left him, was evermore devising how to trouble the state, and to hold the King at continual strife with his subjects, as the readiest and speediest way to compass that, which that factious and turbulent house had so greedily gaped after for these many years. Whereupon he pondering with himself, that if this late reconciliation which was made between the King and his subjects, should continue, that the King of Navarre, and the Prince of Conde, with their adherents and associates, would quickly grow mighty, and so with their power and authority, easily overthrow all his councils, and that in such sort, as he should never be able to accomplish and fulfil his intended purpose, thought it best and most expedient for his advantages, to begin new broils and stirs, and with a sixth civil war to bring France again into a Chaos and confusion.  
The better to effect this, and to lay as sure a foundation as might be for so bad a building, it was devised, that the Bishop of Paris, and a certain Advocate called David, as crafty, as wily, and as wicked a fellow as any lived in those days, should be sent to Rome, 
The Bishop of Paris & the advocate David sent to Rome.  to have the direction of the Pope, and his Cardinals, how it were best to begin, and afterwards most circumspectly to proceed and go forwards in so haughty and weighty an enterprise.  
There were many bitter complaints, and sharp accusations framed against Henry the third the French King, against Monsieur his brother, the king of Navarre, the Prince of Conde, against the race of the Valoises, the Bourbon's, 
Accusations against the houses of Valois and Bourbon.  all the princes of the blood, and the ancient Nobility of France: they were all either heretics, or favourers of heretics, and by their late pacification, intended the utter subversion of the holy Church of Rome. There it was showed, to make the King and all his Princes the more odious, how the house of Capet, had always withstood the Bishops of Rome, and had in old time maintained the Valdensis and Albigeons, and now were either Hugonots, or else great favourers and abettors of them. But on the contrary, that the house and lineage of Charlemagne, (which was wrongfully dispossessed of the Crown) had a special grace given them by the Papal benediction, to support and help holy Church, and that yet there were some of that offspring left, and those stout maintainers of the Papal dignity (meaning those of Guise) and such as had always like notable Champions valiantly defended the Roman faith: and therefore it was expedient, nay most necessary for the preservation of the Catholic Religion, to root out the houses of Valois, and Bourbon, and to restore the offspring of Charlemagne, which was endued with all excellent virtues, and thoroughly furnished with most notable gifts, requisite for the execution of all commendable, and honourable attempts.  

The Council holden at Rome for the rooting out of the blood Royal of France.  And for the more speedy accomplishment hereof, it was resolved, that the Guises with their partakers should procure new commotions in the land, and nourish the wars by all possible means that might be. That they should league the Nobililtie by oath to persecute the Gospel, and to choose for their head and principal of their league, Henry Duke of Guise, whom the King should be counseled to let alone, and suffer him to proceed as he liked best, seeing he was a man of that judgement, that knew well enough what he had to do. The Queen mother likewise should be sent to persuade Monsiour her son to beat the assembly of the States, which should be holden at Blois. Wither the king should solicit the king of Navarre, and Prince of Conde to come, by all the fair words that could be devised. And in the mean while there should be sundry cunning fellows, and such as were most devoted to the league, sent abroad into the several provinces, who should secretly labour, that such Deputies might be chosen, as would further the designments of the Leaguers all that might be. During which privy practices, the Friars and jesuits shall incense the people against the Hugonots, by their seditious Sermons. The priests in their parish churches shall secretly take the names of all the able men for the wars, and in their shriving, shall charge them to provide them of all such weapons as shallbe appointed them by their captains. The States shall swear to observe and obey whatsoever shallbe concluded. And if Monsieur, the king of Navarre, the prince of Conde, and the rest of the princes of the blood, do not appear at the said assembly, they shall be condemned as rebels, and likewise all other that shall any way oppose themselves against the proceed of the said States, who shall swear their obedience to the Sea of Rome, and to observe the Council of Trent: and withal a request shall be made to the king, that if any man shall resist and refuse to give his allowance thereto, that he shall appoint the Duke of Guise his general, and give him authority to pursue him to the death: who having so great forces, shall cause them to be in a readiness to march toward Blois, assoon as the assembly of the states is begun. All things being thus contrived, there shall be certain commissioners chosen, to inquire of the life and deeds of Monsieur, and certain judges appointed to condemn him, for joining himself with the Heretics, and so his process shall be drawene forthwith after the godly example of the king of Spain, who put to death Charles of Ostrich his natural son.  
As soon as Monsieur is condemned, then shall the forces march to strengthen the execution, and shall set upon all the Hugonots, and put as many of them to the sword as they can come by: and the Duke of Guise being so strongly appointed, shall seize upon the persons of the King and Queen mother, and by the permission of the sea Apostolic shall put them into some monastery, as Pepin dealt with Childeric. And by this means the Crown shall be set upon his head, and so return to the blessed stock of Charlemagne, and he and his successors from thenceforth shall have their kingdom of the Bishop of Rome, and shall abolish the prerogatives of the French Church.  
Whilst these things were a working at Rome, the Guises with their adherents fought by all possible means to break the peace in France, and by grievous oppressions and wrongs, to force those of the reformed religion, to put themselves in arms to withstand so injurious proceed. 
Monsieur forsaketh the Protestants, and goeth to the Court.  And albeit they were but too forward to blow the bellows of sedition before: yet now upon the return of David from Rome, they went eagerly forward, and with great earnestness endeavoured to put those rules in practice, which came from their holy father. There were leagues and associations made, and those as strong as could be devised. The states were summoned, and by the collusion of the King, none admitted to be at that assembly, but such as were utter enemies to the Gospel. Monsieur, by the earnest entreaty of the Queen mother, was brought to the Court, and having made his benefit of the favour of the Protestants, left them when they had most need of him and associated himself with their sworn enemies.  
The King likewise began to interpret his Edict after a strange manner, 
The complaints of the Catholics.  and far otherwise then was expected by the confederates. Some articles were strained, and racked out to the uttermost, and other some snipped and curtailed, that they seemed metamorphosed, and changed into a new nature, as far differing from their former, as might be imagined. Many infamous libels were printed, containing most villainous matter against the Protestants: and a rumour was spread abroad, that they had surprised sundry Towns and forts in Poictou, Languedocke, Guienne, Xantoigne, and Dauphine, and therefore that it was impossible to hold in the Catholics any longer, who with so manifold injuries (said they) were mightily incensed against those of the reformed Churches.  
Those of the Religion were exceedingly troubled with this strange kind of dealing, and knowing that it proceeded of a mortal hatred, and that it did evidently argue, that there was a secret purpose to catch them at advantage, and then to make havoc of them, and to root them and their Religion out of France, they began to look about them, and to provide for their own security, especially considering how the Catholics were leagued together, and were ready (as it were at an instant) to invade them on all sides. Whereupon seeing that Monsieur after he had gotten the Dukedom of Berrie, Touraine, and Anjou, (as is already said) had forsaken them, and left them at six and seven, the King of Navarre was chosen chief of the Confederates, and the Prince of Conde seized upon Bowrage, Marennes, 
The beginning of the sixth civil war.  and other Islands, being places of great importance, and very available for the advancement of the Protestant affairs. Thus the peace having endured but a small time, the sixth civil war ensued immediately, upon the report that it was concluded by King in the assembly of the states, that there should be no other, but the Roman Catholic religion, tolerated within all his territories and dominions: for than began the wars to be open on all sides. The Catholics seized upon Du Pont, S: Espirit, Merpin, Tallemond, Bordeaux, and as many other towns as they could get. The Protestants surprised Pons, Royan, Reole, and Cinray, and making a counterleague among themselves, courageously withstood the attempts of their enemies: and foreseeing the stormy tempest, which threatened the ship of their safety, likewise Pilots, and skilful Mariners, they stoutly stood to their tackle, endeavouring by all possible means to save their beaten bark from drowning, and to bring it to some safe port, and quiet harborough.  
Each side alleged sundry reasons for the justification of their actions: the Catholics laid all the blame upon the Protestants: saying, that they were men that would not be satisfied with any indifferent favour: but espying their advantage, had forced the King to yield to unreasonable conditions. Besides, that the Edict was but provisional, and might be disannulled at the King's pleasure: and that it was now determined by the Estates general, that no other than the Roman religion should be tolerated within all the French Dominions. The Protestants alleged, that they were murdered and killed in every corner, and no punishment inflicted upon the malefactors. 
The complaints of the Protestants.  That the Catholics did daily break the King's Edict, which had been made by the consent of all the noble personages of the land, who had solemnly sworn the observation thereof: and that if such Edicts were accounted provisional, who would repose any trust hereafter in the King's word and promise, seeing he held it lawful to break his oath when he listed. And as concerning the estates general, they said, they were not lawfully assembled, and therefore they protested of the nullity of them, and of whatsoever thing they concluded. These and many such reasons were objected on both sides: and they had not long contended in words, but they fell to blows, and each endamaged other all that ever they might.  
The King of Navarre, and Prince of Conde, withdrew themselves to Rochel, and having gotten some 3000. footmen, and 400. horse, they daily enterprised upon their enemies. The D. de Maine, 
The duke de Maine general of the Catholics.  accompanied with Puygall●ard, Ruffec, Roches, Baritand, and many others, to the number of seven hundred horse, besides a strong power of footmen, did continually vex and molest the Protestants, by spoiling their fields, and burning their houses: and being masters of the champaign, cooped in the Confederates very narrowly, and having all things in a readiness, planted their siege before La Charity, which in the end they gained. Yea Rochel itself began in a manner to be besieged, enduring marvelous losses by the continual roads of the Catholics, who wasted all without pity or mercy.  

La charity.  The Protestants being so hardly used, offered the like measure, where they prevailed, dealing very rigorously with such as fell into their hands. The Duke de Maine following his good fortune, 
The prosperous course of the Duke de Maine.  took Tonnay Charentie, and Rochfort, which yielded unto him upon the first summance: and so far he prevailed that he made himself Lord of all the River of Charente, in less than five days: and using great expedition, got Marans from the Rochellors, who were sore grieved with the loss of a place of so great importance.  
Now, as the nature of most men is, to band with the stronger, and evermore to judge of the end, according to the beginning: so many at this time began to slip their necks out of the collar, and to run to the Catholics, supposing that it was impossible for the Confederates to hold out for any long time. For besides that they were overmatched by land, they were likewise hardly handled at sea, and had much ado to keep the Isle of Re, and Cheese de Bay, from Lansac, who was Admiral over the navy Catholic. 
Lansac beaten at sea by the Protestants.  But at last they rigging forth certain ships, commanded by Clerimont of Amb●is, so scoured the coast, that no enemy for the time durst appear in sight of their warlike Fleet, wherewith they were marvelously well recomforted. But their joy lasted not long: for the Duke de Maine approaching Bro●age, so furiously assailed it, that Manducag, who was governor of the Town, was forced to yield upon composition, being destitute of all necessaries requisite, to withstand so great a puissance. By this time also, Lansac having repaired his beaten Fleet, 
The Protestant's beat at sea by Lansac.  put forth to sea afresh, and meeting with the Confederates valiantly set upon them, and putting them to the worse, burned their Admiral called the Prince, and took an other vessel called the Floressante, to the exceeding grief of the Protestants, who had reposed no small confidence in their sea forces.  
Besides all these infortunate chances, there fell out an other cross, which did very much grieve and disquiet the Rochellors, and that was the death of their Mayor Bobinean: 
The death of Bobinean.  who for that he was accounted a wise, valiant, and politic man, one who of all others did wonderfully affect the good of his country, and tendered the welfare of all in general, was marvelously lamented of all sorts, and especially of the Rochellors, 
The great d stress of the Rochellors.  who in a sort were amazed with his death, and as men astonished with so many crosses, had fainted under their burden, had they not been recomforted with a sudden report of a new pacification, which was earnestly solicited by the Duke Montpencier. Whereto the king was the more inclinable, both for that there was a mighty power of Germans ready to enter France, and also for that he wanted money to maintain so great charges. Whereupon the Queen mother was employed to make the composition with the king of Navarre, & the rest of the Protestants: 
The end of the sixth civil war.  which after much running up and down, was agreed upon by both parties, and proclaimed with great joy and triumph, both at Rochel and other places, in token of the earnest desire they had to live at ease, and to spend the remnant of their days in rest and quietness.   

CHAP. XXI.  
The death of Monsieur. The seditious and treacherous practices of the Guisards. The beginning of the seventh civil war, called the leaguers war. The Prince of Conde goeth toward Angiers. His great distress and admirable delivery.  
THe Guises and the rest of the confederates, perceiving how the King, with great numbers of his nobles, and common subjects began to take some delight in peace, and that there was an intention to reform many abuses, which were crept into the state in the time of the civil wars: to restore the nobility to their ancient dignity, and to unburden the people of sundry charges, wherewith for a long while they had been grievously oppressed, were inwardly vexed at the heart, to consider that their former counsels took no better effect, and therefore they fell in hand with new practices, and those more pernicious, pestilent, and more dangerous than any others that ever they attempted before. For they considering that the condemnation & execution of Monsieur the king's brother could not so easily be brought to pass as they desired, and that the king of Navarre, and prince of Conde, did so prudently provide for their own security, that it was a very hard thing to entrap them, & bring their persons within danger, thought it best to go secretly to work, and by some privy means to work their ruin & overthrow, against whom they could not prevail by open force and violence. They therefore hired Salcedo, a Spaniard to kil Monsieur, 
Salcedo a Spaniard hired to kill Monsieur.  and promised him 6000. crowns for his labour: but he failing of his purpose, they procured a certain Gentlewoman, with whom his excellency was but too familiarly acquainted, to give him such a receipt, as never left working, till it had wrought the life out of his body: so that he died the 10. 
Monsieur thought to be poisoned. His death.  of july, 1582 to the great rejoicing of the Guises, who now began to triumph to see so fortunate success and happy advancement of their affairs. And considering that by the death of this great prince, whom they feared more than the King, their side was marvelously strengthened, they began to stir coals afresh, and sought by all means to fill the land full of new broils and hurliburlies. And the time fast approaching, which was appointed for the bringing forth of that monster, wherewith they had travailed for a long time, they had many secret conferences with the duke of Parma, 
The conspiracy of the Guise and the rest of the leaders.  Bernardine Mendoza the Spanish ambassador, and Giovan Bardach no, the King of Spain his Corriero. There was the bargain made to sell Marseiles, Bordeaux, and the Dukedom of Britain, to the King of Spain their master, & an appointed time made, that the Duke of Savoy should invade the Marquisate of Saluces, thereby to occupy the King, and to disperse his forces into diverse and sundry places. And being strongly supported by the favours of many of the Nobility, and sundry of the chief Cities, they first required that the Edict of pacification should be revoked, that the K of Navarre, & prince of Conde, with all those who made profession of the gospel, should be exiled the realm, or else forced to abjure their religion, & that continual war should be denounced against the protestants.  
The King was advertised of all these treacherous practices, as well from sundry the Princes of Germany, as also from the King of Navarre: but he would not believe any thing, but took them to be but slanderous reports, raised up by the Hugonots, and therefore lightly regarded them: but still countenanced the Guyses and their adherents, 
The seditious practices of the Guyses  who having gotten the King to join with them, & to yield to their requests, they hired the Monks and Friars to stir up the people to their seditious ceremonies, shriving and private conferences, to band with them and the rest of the Leagues, and to persecute those of the Religion with fire and sword, and to root them and theirs out of the territories of France.  
They caused sundry infamous Libels to be spread abroad, and gave out that the king of Navarre and the Protestant Princes had sworn to root out the Catholic faith, and to deprive them of the Romish Church of all honour, dignity and authority: that the murder at Paris should be revenged, and that three of the principal Burgesses of every City and town, should be put to death in revenge of the said murder. These with many other notorious untruths were openly declared in their pulpits wherewith the common sort were mightily enraged against the Protestants, and desired nothing more than their utter subversion and overthrow. The Guyses having likewise obtained good store of Spanish pistolets, corrupted divers great personages, 
The beginning of the seventh civil wars, called the wars of the Leaguers.  and had hired sundry Captains to take their parts. Having laid this foundation, and provided all necessaries that could be devised for the rest of their building, about the fourth of March, 1585. they broke forth and showed themselves openly, seizing upon sundry the king's Towns, Cities, and fortresses, supposing (indeed) that the rest would join with them and take their parts: but things falling out contrary to their expectation, they were forced to pluck in their heads for a while, and to attend some better opportunity: and that so much the rather for that the K. the better sort of the Nobility, and the courts of Parliament, opposed themselves against their proceed, declaring them Rebels, and willing all the governors of Towns and provinces to apprehend them, and to see them punished as seditious persons, and perturbers of the State.  
This audacious action seemed very odious in the eyes of many: which the Guyses perceiving, they drew in the Cardinal of Bourbon by sundry fine devices, to join with them, whose credit and countenance served their turns in many great attempts. And because sundry of the King's counsellors were either the Guises' creatures, or by some one way or other devoted unto them, 
The king betrayed by his Council.  the king was never duly informed of the danger of the League: for they told him that it was nothing but an inconsiderate zeal of some few, who fearing the innovation of Religion, were grown somewhat passionate, and sought for nothing indeed but to maintain the people in their obedience to the holy church, who if he should but once frown upon them, they would all come and fall down at his majesties feet, and vow their goods, their lives, and whatsoever means they had to do his majesty service, and therefore he need not fear them who were so good and devout Catholics, but rather had cause to animate them in their Religious proceed, considering that they opposed themselves against none but such as were termed Hugonots, the kings sworn enemies, and such as had been the occasion of all those miseries which had continued in France for so many years.  
The King was brought into such a security of his estate by this wicked Council, that he did not only reject such advertisements as were sent to him from time to time, both from the King of Navarre, Duke Cassimer, and other Princes, touching the monstrous conspiration of the Leaguers: but also as one that knew not what he did, he made great preparation against them of the reformed Religion, and suffered the Leaguers in the mean time to grow and fortify themselves at their own pleasures, until they were become so mighty, that they thought themselves able enough, if need were, to go through with their intended course, whosoever should say nay. Which was no sooner effected, but that they set the King's counsellors on the sudden to inform the king of the great power and puissance of the Leaguers: how that quite besides their expectations there was an universal consent of all his good subjects, to restore the Catholic Religion, that great numbers of his Nobility and chiefest Cities highly commended the zeal of the Leaguers, and were resolved in their defence: and therefore that it were good for the king, considering the time, not to make any resemblance to call any of them to account for any of their actions, lest he should give some suspicion that he was a favourer of the heretics, which might breed a grudging in the hearts of his people, whereby some commotions might rise to the imminent peril of his royal person, and the extreme danger of the whole state.  

The King maketh peace with the Leaguers.  The king being marvelously amazed with these and such like remonstrations, thought it best to make peace with them, and to countenance them as his best subjects. They were glad that they had brought him to that pass: and now seeing they had found him so submiss, they meant to make further trial of his courtesy, and thereupon they required that all their former actions might be ratified by the king's authority, as good and lawful, and done for his service, and that whatsoever had passed in prejudice of the Leaguers, should be revoked as wrongful and unjust, and for that they saw the king was willing to gratify their small requests, they were bold to proceed further, & to entreat him, that the Duke of Guise, the Duke de Maine, the Duke of Aumaile, the Cardinal of Guise, the Lord Brissac, the Lord Antragnes, the Lord Chastre, and the rest of the principal Leaguers might have the government of sundry the strongest places of the land, 
The Leaguers require to be made governors of the principal holds in France.  as of the Citadel of Metz, the Castle of Di●●n, Rheims, the strongest holds of Picardy, Orleans, Caen, Anjou, Bourges, Lions, and many others of like importance. They further persuaded with him to proclaim open wars against the Protestants, & to declare the king of Navarre, the Prince of Conde, and all others who had been infected with heresy (as they termed it) to be for ever uncapable of any office in France, and that they should pack out of the Country with all speed: and for the better countenancing of all their proceed against these great States, they procured Pope Sixtus to excommunicate them, thereby to make them more odious with the people.  
As soon as they had gotten in a manner whatsoever they desired, and had made themselves as good masters as the King, they with sundry and most cunning devices gained great multitudes to join with them, and every man either for fear or for love, was forthwith at their will and command. They mustered great forces, and gathered mighty armies, to invade the king of Navarre and the rest of the Protestants, who seeing themselves abandoned of their king, and exposed to the fury of their merciless enemies, stood upon the defensive, and resisted the rage of the League as well as they could.  
The Prince of Conde growing strong, determined to besiege Brovage, 
The Prince of Conde besiegeth Brovage.  which was kept by the Lord Saint Luc for the Leaguers: where, after he had spent some time in gaining many of the principal forts, he departed towards Angiers, leaving all his footmen to continue the siege: and albeit the Prince used great expedition, labouring with all speed to relieve those who had taken the Castle of Angiers, 
The Prince goeth towards Angiers.  yet could he not come time enough, for by reason that Captain Rochmort, who had surprised the said Castle, was slain with a shot out of the Town as he was leaning in his chamber window, the Castle was rendered again upon composition, & made sure for the League, as it was afore time. The Prince being ignorant hereof, passed the Loire with all his troops, which were some eight hundred horse, and almost a thousand and two hundred arquebusiers on horseback, conducted by the Lord of Nemours, Lavall, Trimoville, Bo●lay, Saint Gelais, Aubigny, Ouches, Rohan touch, Flesche, and sundry others. The Lord Clermont had likewise gathered a great company of horse, and encamped himself with the Prince near unto Angiers. These companies approaching the Town, expected some signal from the Castle, whereby they might understand that it still held for the king of Navarre but they were certified that the said Castle was yielded the day before into the hands of their enemies, and therefore that it was lost labour to stay there any longer. Which news grieved the Prince exceedingly, & made him with the rest of his council, to fall to consultation, how they might safely get back over the Loire, and free themselves out of that danger which then appeared before their eyes: and for that they knew well enough that both the king's forces and the Leaguers were up in all quarters, and hasted by all possible means to encounter them, they retired towards the Loire with a purpose to return the same way they came. The Lord Lavell being the foremost, got over without any danger: but before the coming of the Prince, all the passages were seized by the enemy, and the prince was advertised by many messengers, that either he must resolve to open his way by the sword, or else to hazard himself at all adventure through the Country of Because.  
The Prince approaching the danger, 
The great distress of the Prince and the rest of the Protestants that were with him.  and thinking that in either of these there was but hard choice, called a Council: but by reason of the diversity of opinions it was long before any thing could be concluded: at length it was agreed to pass through Because. Then every man prepared himself towards that desperate journey, and marching toward Luche in Anjou, purposed there to pass over the Loire upon the Bridge: but the River was so risen, that there was no passage without imminent peril. From thence therefore they went to Lude, and so to Prillay, Vandeloyre, & S. Arnol, where they heard news that the Duke of Espernon and the Mareschall Byron were at Bonevall in Beausse, with great forces, ready to fight with the dismayed multitude: that the Duke De Maine, as on the other side of the Loire near unto Bloy, ready to cut off such as should fortune to pass that way, and that all the Country was full of strong garrisons attending with great devotion to make a pray of the Prince, and that handful of men which did accompany him, so that it seemed the further they went the nearer they approached their destruction and having with their long and laborious marches wearied themselves and tired their horses, they did utterly despair of any good success. In this great agony they journeyed on, and every day received more uncomfortable news than other, wherewith many supposing that all was lost, secretly disbanded from the gross of the Army, and repaired to such friends as they had in the Country.  
The Prince and the rest of the Nobility were wonderfully perplexed, and knew not what course to take: at length they resolved to divide themselves into several companies, some going one way and some another: the Lord Rohan with many Gentlemen in his retinue, went towards Britain, Saint Gelais went towards Vandosme, the Prince, the Lords of Trimoville and Auantigny with some of their principal servants, betook them to their fortune as well as the rest, and hasted to get into some place of greater security. The laborious and tedious travail of this noble Prince, his wearisome courses, his long Cavalcadoes, his great and perilous dangers he escaped before he got to that Island of Gernsy, would require a long discourse, & were sufficient for a whole volume. As soon as the chieftains were thus dispersed, the common soldiers were quickly scattered, some took their way towards Orleans some towards Nomandy, and some towards Main, and to be short, every man went which way he liked best, travailing in exceeding great fear, having as they imagined, neither means to escape nor force to resist, but were ready every minute to fall into the hands of those who did wholly pursue them, 
The Prince of Conde with the chiefest of hi● troops arrived at Rochel much about one time.  and thirsted for nothing more than for their blood: but when all hope failed, God did miarculously deliver them, and so delivered them in their journeys, that having avoided a million of more than apparent perils, they all arrived at length at Rochel, and that much about one time, to the exceeding comfort of themselves, and the wonder of all France.   

CHAP. XXII.  
The cruel Edicts of the King against the Protestants. The number of the Popish Armies which were overthrown in one year. The villainous dealing of the Guise. The battle of Coutras.  
WHilst the Prince of Conde and the rest of his distressed Army, made this hard shift for themselves, the Duke de Maine, 
The Duke de Maine made captain general over the for●es of the Popish Clergy.  whom the League had procured to be appointed general by the King's authority over a mighty power, maintained at the cost and charges of the Clergy of France, bestirreth himself, and seeketh to annoy the protestants as much as might be: but by reason the Viscount of Turin opposed himself against his proceed with an army of six thousand men, he did no other harm but got some few Towns which were of no great importance The League not prospering so fast as they desired, by force of Arms, caused the king who was now sold over to work his own confusion and the utter ruin of his Realm and States, 
The cruel Edicts of the king.  to make many cruel Edicts against those of the Religion: notwithstanding all the pacifications and grants of former times, and they were commanded to avoid the Realm within fifteen days, otherwise there was liberty given to persecute them to death, to seize upon their goods, lands and linings, and to employ them to the king's use.  
The king of Navarre knowing that all this was done by the procurement of the League and the Popish Clergy, seized likewise upon all the Lands, and goods of such as were either Leaguers or favourers of that factious and rebellious multitude. The severe proclamations made by the king against those of the Reformed Churches, wrought many lamentable effects in the Land. Some who made profession of the Gospel recanted, and turned to Popery, and because they would not be suspected on any dissimulation, they became earnest persecutors of their poor brethren. Others hid themselves in secret corners and lived most miserably and in great wants. Infinite numbers fled away, some into England, some into Germany, others to Sedan, 
The miserable state of the persecuted Protestants.  Geneva, and such places as were free from persecution. It was a most pitiful sight to behold the dissipation of so many families, who were now turned forth of the doors naked and comfortless, and forced to shift for themselves in strange Countries.  
The Duke de Maine did all this while what he could to any the Protestants, and to gain as many Cities and towns (through very secrecy) as he could to join with the League, and to make that faction strong against the King, by seducing his subjects under the colour of maintaining the Catholic Religion. Which being suspected by sundry his followers, they disbanded themselves, and some for want of pay refused to serve any longer.  
The Duke de Maine by reason of these unexpected crosses, was not able to make head any longer, and therefore wrote to the Guise his brother in what bad terms things stood, who fearing that if there were not new provision, that his brother the Duke de Maine, would come shortly to ruin, and be utterly overthrown, advised the king to make four several Armies, 
Four new armies appointed to invade the Protestants.  and to invade the protestants in diverse places at once, which (said he) was the only way to weaken them, considering that their forces should be severed and disjoined.  
This policy was no sooner allowed as the best, but the Mareschall Byron was appointed to go into Xainctoigne, the Duke joyeuse into Languedocke, the Lord Foynse his son into Auvergne, and the Duke of Espernon into Provence. La Chastre should be ready with a fleet upon the coast of Britain, to enterprise as time and opportunity served.  
The king of Navarre was forthwith certified of this preparation, which made him fortify such places as were of importance as strongly as he could, and understanding that the Mareschall Byron intended to besiege Browage, with a power of one thousand & two hundred horse & four thousand footmen, he did so carefully provide for the defence thereof, that after that Byron had been long before the town, and had done little or nothing, saving that he was content to make a composition with the Protestants, he broke up his camp, and sent his companies, some into Poictou, and some into Anjou to refresh themselves, and thus was this Army dispersed without doing of any thing. Duke joyeuse passed into Languedocke, where he took Lodere, Saint Pour, Montesquion, and Maruei●lx, and having committed infinite sorts of most horrible villainies and strange cruelties, 
The armies of the Popish Leagueri overthrown in less than one year.  after he had lost above thirty of his best Captains, and five hundred others at the least, before a palterie town called Saint Puels, broke up his army, and returned home in far worse case than he went forth. The savage rudeness of this rabble made many of the Nobility, who before favoured the League, to forsake such an association, wherein there was nothing but robbing, spoiling, whoring, swearing, and blaspheming, and that after a most beastly and brutish manner: the young joyeuse following rather his pleasures then the wars, made his progress throughout Awergna, where he did no other harm but spend and waste the King's treasure: and when that was done, retired to the Court to see if he could be trusted with any more. And thus were all these armies brought to confusion, vanishing away as a little smoke, notwithstanding all their great brags.  
The Leaguers considering that all these five Armies had spent great store of treasure, and all other warlike preparation, and yet had rather hindered then furthered their secret purposes (for by reason they sped no better they were forsaken of many, 
The Queen mother offereth a parley of peace.  & grown into contempt with others) devised with the Queen mother, whom they knew to favour their designments, that she should offer a parley of peace: which she did, and sent to understand of the king of Navarre, if he would hearken thereto, who tendering the good of his country refused not the motion: whereupon there was an interview between the Queen mother and the said King at Saint Brice, the thirteenth of December, where there was much ado, and many words spent to small purpose: for the Queen would not condescend to the excuse of the Religion, and the king of Navarre would make no peace, seeing that was the principal cause of bearing arms: howbeit, in the end the Queen understanding of the great levy of Reisters that were coming to the aid of the Protestants, and growing in suspicion that the Dukes of Guise and de Maine, and the rest of the Leaguers would enterprise somewhat against the King, she concluded a peace for three months, and so returned to the Court.  

1587. The Guyses treacherous dealing to discredit the King.  The Duke of Guise intending to discredit the king with his subjects every day more than other, sent abroad sundry his supposts, and caused them to spread a rumour, how that the evil success of all those armies which had been employed against the Hugonots, was for that the king being led by wicked council, would not permit that they should be sufficiently provided for with money, munition and other necessaries, that he had intelligence with the heretics, that he had war (indeed) in his mouth, but in his heart he meant nothing less, and that by such fraudulent dealing the good Catholics were betrayed, and the Heretics encouraged, and that therefore there was no good to be done so long as there was such packing and false play. The Domestical enemy was first to be overthrown, before the foreign enemy could be vanquished. These and such like sinister informations, were given out among the multitude, by Friars, Priests, and jesuits, in their Sermons, and many busy headed fellows were set a work to spread these, and such like defamatory speeches, with much vehemency and earnestness, in Alehouses, Taverns, Markets, and all other places of greatest assembly. By reason of which slanderous and bad reports, there grew much murmuring amongst the people, with no small dislike of the present government. The King notwithstanding (as a man bewitched with the deceitful dealing of his mother, and the treacherous practices of such counsellors, as he most favoured) either understood nothing of all this, or else was forced to wink at it, as wanting leisure or means to sift the matter more narrowly. For the rumour of the coming of the Germans, the fortunate success of the Lord Digueres, in Dauphinie and Languedocke, the counterleague of the King of Navarre, the Prince of Conde, and a great number of very Noble and honourable personages of the land, with a full resolution to maintain the reformed Religion, did so occupy his mind, that he could not have leisure to look into the rebellious drifts of the Leaguers, who continually incensed the King against the Hugonots, and after the confusion and ruin of all his former Armies, persuaded him to assail those of the Religion in Guienne, with new forces, under the conducting and leading of Duke Joyense, for that it was thought, that the Mareschall Byron was of too mild a nature, and had dealt somewhat too favourably in his late voyage.  
Thus Duke Joyense being armed, with the King's authority, 
The Duke Joyense sent against the Protestants.  and aided with a mighty power, invaded Guienne, where he took sundry towns, as might, Saint Cloy, Saint Mexent, Tonnay, Charauty, Maylezay, and some others: but the plague increasing among his soldiers, he was forced to break up his camp, and to disperse his forces, and he himself posted to Paris, to the rest of the principal Leaguers.  
The King of Navarre understanding of his retreat, set upon his straggling troops, killed many, took sundry prisoners, and in a short space recovered all that had been lost. Thus the Leaguers had caused the King to spend much money about nought, intending thereby to weaken him, and strengthen themselves: for by this means they were still in authority, and did in a manner what soever they lifted, impoverishing their enemies, and enriching their friends, as the readiest way to effect that, which they had long before determined to accomplish.  
About this time were the Germans ready to march towards France: 
The great preparation of the King to withstand the Germane  whereof the King being advertised, he prepared three several Armies, with the which he meant both to defend himself, and to offend his enemies. The du●e of Guise was made general over the first, wherein were 23000. French men, besides 400 Lances, 2000 Italians, and six hundred light horse, sent to him out of the low Countries by the Duke of Parma. All which were appointed to bar the Germans out of Lorraine, if it were possible, or else to hinder them, that they should not pass through champaign. The King led the second army into Berry, wherein was 88 companies of men of Arms, ten thousand French footmen, 12000. Swissers, 4000 Rutters, 12. double Canons, & 2000 pioneers, with which power the King determined to keep the Loire. The duke Joyense conducted the third army against the King of Navarre, to keep him occupied, and to withhold him from joining with the Germans.  

The battle of Contras.  The King of Navarre gathered as great forces as he could, and being accompanied with the prince of Conde, Count Soyssons, the Lord Trimoville, the viscount of Turen, and many other honourable estates, hasted to incorporate himself with his strangers, & using great speed got over the river of Droune, where the duke Joyense had intended to stop his passage, and so marched forward, purposing to lodge at Contras. The duke supposing that the advantage was his, for that the king of Navarre was weak in power, & enclosed between two rivers, so that he could not escape without fight: as one desirous to do some notable exploit, resolved to try his fortune by some general fight. Whereupon he took his place for the battle near unto Contras. The King of Navarre was glad of the Duke's resolution, and having disposed all his troops in very warlike manner, waited his best opportunity to begin the battle. About eight of the clock in the morning the Artillery on both sides began to play. And for that the king of Navarre's Ordinance was commodiously placed, it did marvelously endamage the Duke's men of arms, which stood at his right hand, as also the regiments wherewith they were flanked for their better assurance: wherewith when many were rend and torn in pieces, the rest resolved rather to charge then to die so miserably without any further fight. The arquebusiers came no sooner in reach each of other, but they powered out their shot as thick as hail, each party endeavouring to do well, and to annoy one another to their uttermost.  
The king of Navarre had divided his horsemen into four squadrons the first was led by himself, the second by the Prince of Conde, the third by the Count Soysons, who stood on the left hand of the king, and the fourth by the viscount of Turenne, who was at his right hand, equally advanced with the foremost. These standing still, beheld the skirmish of their footmen, until the duke hasted to the general onset: then these three Princes of the blood, every one in the front of their regiment, began to change their pace into a trot, and so into a gallop, giving such a furious charge upon their enemies, that they wholly defeated them, and having killed a great number, the rest betook them to flight. The footmen seeing their horsemen overthrown, lost courage, and ran away for company: then was the mortality great: for the Protestants pursuing them, committed a marvelous carnage among them that fled. There was slain the Duke of Joyense, 
D. Joyense slain, and his army overthrown.  general of the army, and Saint Swear his brother, Bressay, Rousay, count Suxe, Count Ganeto, Count Aubiyon, Fumel, Rochfort, Neufny, Gurats, Saint Fort, Tercelin, master of the camp, Chesner and Vallade, besides many other Lords and Gentlemen of mark. Bellegard, Saint Luc, the Marquis of Prennes, Count Monsoreau, Sansac, Cipierre, Santray, Montigny, Villecomblim, Chasteaurenauld, Parriere Chasteaweulx, Chasteloux, and Awerdiere, all captains and commanders were taken prisoners, diverse Castles and strong holds were presently yielded unto the king of Navarre, and a very great fear possessed the hearts of the rest of his enemies.   

CHAP. XXIII.  
The great arm●e of the Germans overthrown. The death of the Duke of Bonillon. The Guise's slander the King. The Leaguers besiege the Duchess of Bonillon. Their overthrow. The Prince of Conde poisoned. The Parisians rebel against the King. The King flieth to Charteres. The Guisards vow to kill the King.  
THe French King, 
1588. The army of the Germans commanded by the Duke of Bonillon.  and Duke of Guise were all this while very busy in providing of all necessary means to withstand the Germans, who still came on forwards. Their army consisted of five thousand Ruttars, five thousand lansquenets, sixteen thousand Swissers, with whom were joined four thousand French arquebusiers, and three hundred French horse. The Lord Movy brought also two thousand French arquebusiers on horseback, the Lord Villeneufe one thousand, and the Lord Lovers one thousand. The Lord Chastillon likewise joined with them, with one thousand five hundred arquebusiers, and two hundred horses. The whole number came to some thirty five thousand: besides the companies brought by the Prince of Contie. They had sixteen pieces of great Ordinance, with store of all warlike munition. The general of all these, was the Duke of Bonillon, who commanded as Lieutenant for the King of Navarre.  
This mighty and puissant army was the terror of the League, and the hope of the Protestants, but the expectation of both was disappointed: for after that the Germans had marched through Lorraine, and were gotten into France as far as Lancy in Masconois, where by reason that many principal Captains were corrupted with money and fair promises, and the rest suffered great wants, they concluded to return back: so that having made their capitulation, and gotten their Passeportes, 
Sundry of the German Captains corrupted by money caused the whole army to retire. The death of the duke of Bonillon.  every man made all the speed home that might be, laden with misery, shame, and dishonour, with the loss of many Ensigns and Cornets, besides their chiefest leaders and commanders. The Duke of Bonillon, general of that army, with the Lord Clerebant and Van, being not able to draw them forwards by any persuasion, returned to Geneva, where they died shortly after: The Count de La Mark, brother to the duke of Bonillon, was deceased long before at a place called Loin. Great numbers of this dispersed army were invaded by their enemies, and slain in their passage homewards, contrary to the promise which had been made unto them by the Catholics. The Colonels and Captains of the Swissers, the chief authors of the dissolution of that Army, were severely punished by their Segneuries, so that this whole army was marvelously afflicted, and every one was scourged after one sort or other: and having spent and spoiled infinitely, did nothing but work their own calamity and overthrow.  
The King undoubtedly had taken marvelous care to s●uer this mighty puissance, and by cunning handling of the matter, 
The Guises slander the King.  had brought them to this extreme pass, that under the colour of a Passport, he exposed them to the butchery, and rage of their enemies. And although that by reason of this politic dealing, he deserved high commendation: yet the Guise so handled the matter, that all redownded to his further discredit, and caused his subjects to speak worse of him then at any time before. For the Guise had caused it to be bruited abroad, that not only the King had willingly suffered the Germans to escape, contrary to the counsel and advice of the Duke of Guise, but also had given them the means to retire in safety, some into Germany, and others into Languedocke, there to join with the King of Navarre, and so to continue further troubles in the land, to the great and intolerable harm of the good Catholics, and the encouraging of Heretics, and such as were enemies to holy Church.  
When the Friars and jesuits in Paris, and other principal cities were possessed with these news, they broke forth into very seditious speeches, openly exclaiming against the King, and extolling the wisdom, prowess & noble acts of the duke of Guise: whereby they procured him much favour among the multitude that knew nothing, but what they heard by the Leaguers, and their favourites, which made them think, that the King had killed his thousand, but the Guise his ten thousand. All which treacherous dealings tended to no other end but this: either to make the French believe that the K. was not endowed with such noble and heroical virtues, as were requisite for him that should govern so mighty and puissant a nation, or else that he was a notorious dissembler, a maintainer of Heretics, & a secret enemy to the Catholics. And then what should they do with such a King? let them make choice of another more valiant, more wise, more provident, more religious, & a more stout defender of holy Church: and who should that be, but the Guise, who for the zeal, courage, valour, and singular dexterity in the managing of matters of estate, was not only superior to the King, 
The leaguers attempt against the young duchess of Bonillon.  but the paragon of all Europe.  
The leaguers being assured of the death of the duke of Bonillon, and that he had left his sister Madame Charlate de la Mark, a young and tender Lady, heir to all his sovereign segneurie, and principality of Bonillon, thought it their best to let the king of Navarre alone for a time, at whose hands there was little to be gotten, unless they paid dear for it, and to enterprise somewhat again this desolate Lady, and either by hook or by crook (as we use to say) to get the Dukedom into their possession. Whereupon the Duke of Guise used all the cunning he could, to match his son the Prince jenuill with her: and the Duke of Lorraine was as earnest a suitor for his son, called Marthuis de Pont, and Lord Vaudemont. But neither of them being able by all their devices, to win that Lady's favour, they thought it best to join together, and to compel her to match according to their likings. With this resolution they entered the Dukedom of Bonillon, with a great power, burning, wasting, kill, murdering, ravishing, and committing all other horrible and detestable villainies that could be imagined, 
The cruelty of the leaguers against the dukedom of Bonillon.  and besieged the said Lady, and her two principal Towns, Sedan and Iamets: where they continued a long time, spent much Treasure, and lost most of their men, and in the end, with shame and dishonour, (being well beaten at a woman's hand, by the valiant conduct of the Lord Necuile,) were glad to give over, and return home.  
Whilst the dukedom of Bonillon, was vexed and tormented with these troublesome suitors, the principal leaguers assembled at Nancie in Lorraine, where there was a great consultation held, how they might advance themselves, and overthrow the King, against whose person and state they had for a long time 'bout all their endeavours. There they agreed to present certain articles to the king, which they would have him agree unto: and those were such as tended to the utter destruction of the King, and the ancient Nobility of France, and the safety of themselves. First, they requested the King to join more openly with the League, and to put all such as they disliked out of their offices: 
The petitions of the league to the king.  To cause the Council of Trent to be proclaimed throughout all his Dominions: To establish the Spanish inquisition: To put such Castles and strong Towns into their hands, as they should name unto him: That he should send an army into Lorraine, upon the borders of G rmanie, to let the entry of strangers into the land, and for the maintenance thereof, should cause all the goods of those, whom they termed Heretics or favourers of Heretics, to be sold, and the money to be delivered into their hands. That the Catholics should pay the tenth of their revenues for the same purpose: and that the surplusage should be to pay the most needful debts of the principal Leaguers, and that the life of no Heretic prisoner, should be spared, unless he would abjure, and put in good security to live catholicly hereafter, and to give all his goods, or the just value of them, which he hath then in his possession, to the supporting of the League, and to bind himself to serve three years, wheresoever he should be commanded.  
The King did allow of such of these Articles as did any way concern the suppression of the reformed Religion: 
The king refuseth to grant all the petitions of the league.  but considering that the rest did wonderful derogate from his Crown and dignity, and that they tended directly to the weakening of himself, and the strengthening of the league, of which, for a long time, he had very hardly conceived, he would not be induced to condescend unto them, by any manner of means or entreaty whatsoever.  
Now as the Leaguers laboured openly by these and such like devices, to weaken the King, so they practised secretly to destroy the King of Navarre, and Prince of Conde, knowing that if they were once rid of them, it would be an easy matter to accomplish the rest. Hereupon they set on work certain wicked and devilish persons, to bring these two great Princes to their deaths. And assuring themselves that this detestable devise would take effect, they caused it on a sudden to be bruited all over the Realm of France, that Navarre and Conde were both dead. But by God's good providence, Navarre escaped that danger, and took no harm.  
The Prince of Conde by the treacherous and villainous dealing of some of his household servants, and amongst others, of one Brillant, and a page, 
The prince of Conde poisoned.  (too such as he had greatly favoured, and bestowed many benefits upon) was poisoned the third day of March, in the year of our Lord, 
The great commendation of the prince of Conde.  one thousand five hundred eighty and eight, and died within two days after, at Saint jean d' Angely. Whose death was greatly lamented of all good men, for that he was wise, valiant, zealous in religion, true hearted to his Prince, a lover of his country, and an irreconcilable enemy to the perturbers of the state, and to all such as he knew to be adversaries to God, to the King, and to the Crown of France.  
The Guises and the rest of the leaguers, rejoiced not a little at this news: for now they thought they were gotten one step higher, and had greater hope to oppress the Protestants then before: who they knew were mightily weakened with this loss. And for that they supposed that in this conservation of men's minds, they had opportunity to attempt something, which might still advance their affairs, they thought good that the Lord Laverdin, who had scaped a scouring at the battle of Coutras, should assail Marans, a place of very great importance, and if it were possible to make it sure for the league.  
The Lord Laverdin applied his business so diligently, that he gained the said Island of Marans in a short time, 
Marans gained by the Lord Laverdin.  by reason that the Protestants, being amazed (as it were) with the unexpected death of the Prince, did not provide timely enough for the fortifying thereof, with such store of men and munition, as was necessary.  
Albeit that the King was glad, that the Lord Laverdin had gotten Marans, yet he liked not that it should be kept by the Lord Cluseaux, whom he knew to be a favourer of the League: but there was no remedy, he must bear with the time, being indeed not able to do as he would, for the most part of his Council, and those of the chiefest were leaguers, and the Duke of Guise, the head of those monsters, had caused such infamous rumours to be raised of the King's actions, and by secret practices had so disgraced him among his subjects, that he was almost grown into contempt among the commonalty, and was imputed no body in comparison of the Guise. This opinion the King would gladly have rooted out, and was very desirous to gain their good wills and affections, if possibly he might. The better to effect this, he thought best to proclaim wars afresh against the Protestants, 
The King prepareth to go into Poictou against the Protestants.  and to raise a great power, and to go in person into Poictou, against the King of Navarre, and all his confederates, that so by some famous exploits against those of the reformed religion, he might regain the love and liking of his lost subjects.  
The Duke of Guise, who knew that he had stolen away the people's hearts from the King, thought it now good time to discover his secret meaning more openly, and presuming of his favourers at Court, and the good will of the country, 
The Guise determineth to seize upon Paris, and to take the King.  concludeth to get Paris, to seize upon the king either alive or dead, to kill as many princes of the blood, and other officers of the crown as he could lay hands upon, and by fine force to set the diadem of France upon his own head. Now that he might be the more assured to accomplish all this, he wrote secret letters to all his chief friends and followers, to meet him at Paris, as speedily as they might. And for that the King should not be able to withstand him, he had set the duke of Aumaile to war against sundry towns and cities in Picardy, and had given order that others should attempt as much in Normandy, and other places: knowing that the king would send thither his principal forces to keep those countries in his obedience, and then he might with more facility execute his intended purpose.  
Upon these advertisements of the Guise to his associates, there repaired unto Paris, great numbers of the most factious, turbulent, and malcontent persons of all the Land. Many Spanish Captains and Hispaniolized french, were soon assembled in that mighty City, and that to the number of fifteen or sixteen thousand: beside, the Citizen Leaguers who were exceeding many, and those as desperate and rash headed as any others whosoever: the Duke of Guise being diligently informed of this, and knowing how greatly he was expected at Paris by his confederates, resolved to post thither with all speed, and the rather for that the king (even as he wished) had now dispersed his forces, sending some into Normandy and others into Picardy to maintains his authority in those provinces: the King had long mistrusted the Guise, & for that he was now advertised that he was coming to Paris, he vehemently suspected that there was some notable practice in hand, to be performed against him by the Leaguers, he therefore sent word to the said Duke, whom he underderstood to be forward on his way, by the Lord Belieure, that in no wise he should come to Paris at that time upon pain of his displeasure, and in case that he would notwithstanding continue his journey, that then he held him for a traitor and the author of all those miseries wherewith the Land was so encumbered at that instant: Belieure did his message, 
The Guise entereth into Paris contrary to the King's commandment.  but the Guise did little regard it, for he followed the said Belieure at the heels, and was at Paris almost assoon as he, accompanied not passed with some fifteen or sixteen Gentlemen, the better to cover his intended purpose, knowing that he should find a sufficient number of partakers to maintain himself against all men.  
Not long after his arrival, he went very confidently to see the king, and with all humble reverence with his knee to the ground, saluted him: but the king being highly despleased for that his coming, contrary to his commandment, gave him a frowning countenance. The Guise stayed not long at Court but returned to his house in the City: immediately after, the King being duly informed of the great number of strangers that were in the same City, and that it was very likely that they remained there for some dangerous exploit, caused twelve companies of French men and Swissers to be distributed into sundry places to keep all quiet and in their due obedience. The Citizens at the instigation of the Guise & his companies, took the Alarm, & making as though they feared that they should be murdered and have their houses sacked, 
The Parisians rise a-against the King and kill his guard.  (for divers were sent about to disperse such reports) armed themselves, and being assisted by Brissac, Borsdauphin, Chamois, and the rest of the Guysards, set upon the Swissers and the rest of the King's guards: whereof some they killed, and others they disarmed, and such as remained they kept as prisoners, and hoping now to attain to the Period of their desires, they made their approaches and besieged the Lowre, intending to take the King either alive or dead.  
The king seeing all that great and populous City in an uproar, and that he had not sufficient forces to oppose against such a rebellious rabble, determined to leave the Lowre, 
The King leaveth Paris and flieth to Chartres.  at the persuasions of sundry his most faithful counsellors, who advised him to give place to that desperate Rebellion, & to seek his safety some other where whereupon he incontinently departed from Paris, and went that night as far as Traps, and the next day to his City of Chartres. Many great Lords & Gentlemen of good place which were the king's friends, went after him as fast as they could, some on horseback, and some on foot, making as good shift as they could upon so short warning: wherein we may note a marvelous strange alteration and vicissitude in the state of this great Prince, who having been so mighty a monarch, and a king of two such noble and puissant countries as were Polonia and France, a commander over so many great and honourable personages, and had ruled such an infinite multitude of all sorts, was now driven out of his own house, and out of his chiefest City, and forced to fly before him who was his vassal and subject, to his intolerable grief and vexation, leaving his treasure and whatsoever precious things he had, to be a pray for his enemies.  
The Guise understanding that the king was escaped, and had avoided his bloody fingers, was marvelously grieved, and cursed his oversight, knowing that he should never have the like opportunity again to effect his purpose, and fearing that the King would seek to be revenged of so great an indignity offered to his person, thought that he would provide the means as well as he could, to defend himself and his: & therefore he seized upon the King's arsemall, and upon his treasure, 
The Guise seizeth upon the King's treasure.  whereof he brought to his own house above seven hundred thousand Crowns, which he laid up as an earnest for the rest. Then did he forthwith alter the policy of the City, removing Perrense the provost of the Merchants from his office, and the rest of the chiefest officers which he knew to be affectionate to the king, and placed such as were the most factious & seditious Leaguers in their rooms: he wrote also sundry letters to his friends abroad, and to the principal Towns such as he knew to be devoted to him, requiring them to join with him, and to be in a readiness when he should have need, and caused it to be bruited, that all that which had passed at Paris was not against the king, but to defend the City which was in danger to be spoiled by strangers, and that the king by the counsel of the Duke of Espernon, who had (said he) intelligence with the King of Navarre and the Heretics, had caused sundry gibbets to be set up in several places of the City, to hang divers Citizens and to spoil their houses, thereby to gather money, and to war against the Leaguers.  

The Guise seeketh to cover his rebellious action.  When the Guise had taken the course to assure himself by all the devices he could, he wrote letters to the king, seeking to disguise all this action, and to persuade him, that he had no evil meaning against his majesty, but had always been and still remained his most dutiful subject, and had in this tumultuous stir, happened at Paris, showed how he respected the King and all his servants, in that he had taken so great prays even with the danger of his life to save sundry his officers, his Captains and Soldiers, and so far forth as possibly he might, to keep the people from murder and bloodshed, which was then so likely to have fallen out, and that to the great and irreperable harm of the Kings best affected subjects. After the alleging of these and many other arguments to prove his fidelity, he besought the king to be his gracious Lord, and to account of him as his most faithful and loyal subject, and for that he had a guilty conscience, he was continually in fear, lest the King would at one time or other be revenged, howsoever peradventure for the time he might dissemble the matter, and show him a fair countenance, and therefore he practised all means to make his atonement, and to that end made earnest suit to the Queen mother to stand his gracious Lady. Such was his demeanour, and so cunningly he handled the matter, that she was won to be a mediator for him, and to assay to bring him again into the king's favour.  
The king reposing a marvelous confidence in his mother, 
The Queen mother reconcileth the Guise to the King.  who had bewitched him with an opinion of her love and natural affection towards him, suffered himself to be ruled by her advice, notwithstanding all the persuasions of the Catholics that were about him, who exclaimed against the Guyses and their proud and rebellious enterprises, and required the king to ta●e condign punishment, proffering him their service, their lives, their goods, and whatsoever means they had for the accomplishment thereof. The king thanked them for their good wills, but resolving to make a peace, sent them home again, and would not follow their counsels. After much going and coming on both sides, the reconciliation was made, & the K. & the Leaguers became good friends, and intended to bend all their forces against the Protestants. Whereupon two mighty armies were prepared, the one for Guienne, 
Two armies sent against the Protestants.  commanded by the Duke of Nevers, & the other for Dauphiny, under the leading of the Duke de Maine. All these troublous stirs being now ended, & the K. and the Leaguers being made friends, it was thought good to call an assembly of the state to reform the policy of the Land, and to take some finer course for the prosecuting of the wars against the Hugonots, and to that end the king sent his writs to summon all provinces, Cities, and towns, 
This Parliament was appointed to begin the 15. of August, yet afterward it was deferred until the ninth of October following.  to send their deputies to Bloys, provided always that they were good catholics, and such as neither had favour, nor were any ways suspected to favour the king of Navarre nor his associates, and the Duke of Guise and the rest of the Leaguers so handled the matter in the mean time, that not any one man in a manner was chosen to be sent to that assembly, but such as they were assured did either openly or secretly favour their proceed.  
At this great parliament there was much ado and many things talked of, but especially of the Edict of Reunion, made the one and twenty of july, which tended to the establishing of Popery, the rooting out of Heresy, and the disinheriting of the Princes of the blood, provoking the king with many bitter words & vehement exhortations, to imbrue his hands in the blood of the saints, and with fire and sword to root them out of France. All which was assented unto by the king and his three estates, & enacted as a fundamental law of the land, which they all swore to see inviolably kept, and observed in all the king's dominions, to the uttermost of their powers.  
The king of Navarre was quickly advertised of whatsoever had passed at Bloys, 
The Protestants assemble at Rochel  and therefore assembled all his principal friends & followers at Rochel, the 16. of November following, whither likewise all the reformed churches sent their deputies: where they resolved upon the defensive, and the means how to withstand their enemies. The king continued at Bloys all this while, and albeit he showed a fair countenance to the Guise, yet in heart he loved him not, for that indignity which was offered him at Paris, besides many other saucy and audacious Pranks which he played since, did breed a revenging mind in the K. which he meant to show more apparently assoon as any opportunity was offered. Now as it usually falleth out between late reconciled enemies, each still suspected other, and many tarres ●ell out between their friends and followers, which bred sundry stirs and hurleburlies in the Court: but there were two especially which gave the ●larum to the Courtiers, and made every man to stand upon his guard. The first quarrel arose among the Pages and lackeys, some holding with the Bourbon's, and some with the Leaguers, wherewith the Duke of Guise was so affrighted, 
Two sudden uprares at Court.  that he ran into his chamber, barred the doors, and kept himself as close as he could. The second was occasioned by a soldier, who being hurt, ran to save himself in the Guises' Chamber, whither he was followed by the king's guard, with their drawn swords in their hands, whereupon once again all the Court was in an uproar, not without great fear, lest some dangerous event would ensue.  
About the middle of December, the Duke of Guise showed himself more disobedient then at any time before, and a great contemner of the king and his authority, 
The Guise a ma●●●●ter of murderers and Rebels.  in maintaining a number of Ruffians, murderers, factious & seditious persons, and such as raised a rebellion in August last, and had attempted the kill of the Duke of Espernan at Engolesme. These were lodged in the Court, and flocked about the Guise, and were so countenanced by him, that no Magistrate durst say a word to them: beside, the king being daily informed of many trech erous practices against his person and estate, called all his Nobles, and willed them to swear, that they should never attempt any thing against him: 
The Guise refuseth to take his oath for the preservation of the King.  the Duke most disloyally refused, and said in his presence, that he would not take such an oath, and if he did any thing otherwise then he ought, there were good laws to punish him, spare him not no other answer could be gotten at his hands, and fearing that the ●ing would be revenged as well for this as for other notorious contempts, as also considering that all the drifts of his counsellors were so discovered, that there was no way to hide them any longer, and therefore that now with all speed he must put them in execution, he called a Council of his most trusty friends, as Lewis Cardinal of Guise his brother, the Archbishop of Lions, and some few others, in which it was concluded, 
The Guise and his associates vow to kill the king.  that the king must needs be dispatched out of hand, and that all delays were dangerous: and therefore the twenty four of that month was appointed for that tragical execution, binding themselves to see the same performed with a solemn oath.  
Thus was this great french king discovered of a very ancient and noble race, honoured for a long time of his own subjects, and reverenced of his neighbour Princes, condemned to die by the hands of most disloyal traitors, who had all their advancement by him and his predecessors.   

CHAP. XXIIII.  
The King resolveth to kill the Guise. The death of Francis Duke of Guise, and of the Cardinal his brother. The terror of the Guysards. The death of the Queen mother.  
THough the King knew not of this sentence of death which was pronounced against him, 
The King resolveth to kill the Guise.  yet the old and new injuries offered unto him by the Guise, did sufficiently exasperate him, and made him watch all opportunity to seek his revenge, and assoon as ever he could to be rid of so desperate a traitor. This determination of the king could not be kept so secret, but that the Guise having many friends about the king, who suspected some such thing, advertised the Duke the two and twenty of December, by laying a little bill under his napkin, wherein was written: Look to yourself for some are about to play a shrewd play with you. He perusing the writing, wrote this answer: They dare not, and so threw it under the ●able. The same day the king received divers advertisements of this horrible conspiracy of the Guise against his person, 
The advertisements of the Duke of Maine and Aumaile to the King, touching the attempt of the Guise.  and especially from the Duke de Maine, who sent Alphonso Corpse to him with this message. That it was an easy matter to carry beads about, and to put on a counterfeit show of holiness, but he was sure that his brother had a dangerous enterprise in hand against his Majesty, which he knew not certainly when he would put in execution, but he was well assured that the time was not far off, and that he doubted lest his warning should come too late. And advised him in these words, That his Majesty should beware of a desperate and furious mind. The Duke of Aumaile sent likewise the duchess his Wife to give the King to understand, That there was great danger towards his person, and that the conspirators were upon the point of execution. The king had also intercepted many letters, by which he did evidently perceive as much, and how that the Guyses had sworn his death and destruction, and disinhereting of the royal blood of France in the houses of Valois and Bourbon's, and to set up the house of Lorraine.  
All these remonstrances made the king bestir him, and to devise some speedy Course for the preservation of his own life. Whereupon he got the keys of the Castle, doubled his guards, and appointed a strong watch in the Town, with commandment not to open the gates without his special licence: all which was done in the night, without the knowledge of the Guise, and calling unto him some seven or eight of those five and forty pensioners which daily attended on his person, he revealed unto them his purpose, requiring their aid and assistance, who received most willingly their service, with promise to execute his will, and to do as his Majesty had directed them.  
The next morning the Duke of Guise, the Cardinal his brother, the Archbishop of Lions with the Mareschall of Haultmont were assembled in the chamber near unto the king, and ready to sit in council how and in what manner it were best to commit their detestable parricide. The king having disposed of all things in the best manner that he could devise, sent a Gentleman to call the Duke of Guise to come and speak with him, who coming forth, and seeing the Guards more carefully disposed than was accustomed, having a guilty conscience, began to suspect, and (as oftentimes the mind of man upon the instant of so great adventures presageth that which afterward ensueth) so at this present the Duke's heart fainted, and his colour charged, & as one fearing some imminent peril, he was ready to swoon: he had sent his Page for a handkerchief, in one of the corners whereof his secretary named Pellicart had knit up a little written bill, containing a warning to get him away with all speed, or else he were but dead. But this handkerchief was intercepted with the remembrance, as the Page was coming up, and never came to his hands.  
The Duke in going through a narrow passage to the King, increased his mistrust, and was about to return, but still he went forwards into the King's utter chamber, where seeing the Lord Loiguake fitting upon a chest, whom of all other he most hated, for that he had been long persuaded that the same Lord determined to kill him, he set his hand to his sword with a purpose to set upon the said Loiguake: but by reason he did wear his Cloak Scarfed wise, he was so troubled, that he could not draw it past half way out of the sheath: they who were appointed for his execution, 
The death of Francis D. of Guise.  seeing him enterprise such an audacious act and that at the king's chamber door, prevented him and slew him at that instant.  
The noise was such in this tragical execution, that the Cardinal entered into a mistrust, and made haste to get forth, but he was stayed by a Gentleman of the Scottish guard, 
The death of the Cardinal of Guise  who had commandment to arrest him, and not long after by reason of his former treasons and his presumptuous behaviour at that present, mingled with some threatening speeches, he was strangled in the same placce where he was taken prisoner. The Archbishop rushed forth in great fury, and said he would help the Duke of Guise, but he was quickly cooled and clapped up in prison, though afterward released upon his submission and acknowledgement of his offence. The Cardinal of Bourbon, the Prince jewille son to the Duke of Guise, the Mareschall D'Albenfe, with many other partakers in this treason, were apprehended and committed to safe keeping, and likewise Pellicart secretary to the Duke of Guise with all his papers and writings, whereby all the secret Councils of the Guyses and the rest of the Leaguers, as well of Princes and Nobles as of the Clergy, Town, and Cities, were manifested and discovered.  
The fame of this execution was forthwith spread abroad in the Town, albeit the Castle gates were shut, which made all such as had guilty consciences to pack from Bloys as speedily as ever did the Protestants from the suburbs of Saint Germans on Bartholomew day, 
The Guysards fly from Bloys.  and to seek to shift for themselves some other where.  
Thus were the Leaguers wonderfully crossed in their designments, and many who the day before thought it an honour to be called Guysards and were ready to challenge to the Combat, such as reputed them Royalles were now altered on the sudden, and cast in a new mould, esteeming all that factious multitude worse than thieves and murderers.  
Shortly after that these things thus passed at Blois, died the Queen mother, 
The death of the Queen mother of France.  who was very old, and had lived too long for France, where she had been as the firebrand of the Country, the nurse of all rebellions, the bellows of all civil dissension, the instrument of the devil, to work all impiety and ungodliness, the procurer of the fall and destruction of her own children, and the principal worker of all this woeful and lamentable alteration, happened in that noble and renowned Kingdom.   

CHAP. XXV.  
The rebellion of Duke de Maine, and most of the principal Cities of France. The King of France, and the King of Navarre are reconciled, The King of France murdered by a Friar, The King of Navarre proclaimed King of France.  
THe King thought good to advertise all his subjects of that which had happened at Blois, and for that purpose wrote diverse Letters to his several governors of his provinces, duly informing them of all these occurrences: and sent to the assembly of the States, to let them understand, that it was his pleasure, that they should still continue: and that he was fully determined to follow their reasonable counsels in all things: but they by little and little sliding away one after another, got them home into their Countries: and by spreading of most accursed and damnable rumours, depraving the King's fact with many hyperbolical speeches, which they amplified with sundry lying reasons, and defamatory libels, terming this execution by the name of the massacre committed at Blois, caused an universal rebellion of all those Towns, Cities, and Provinces, which had rejected the Gospel in former times. The Duke de Maine no sooner understood thereof, but that he persuaded himself, that seeing his brother was dead, 
The duke de Maine rebelleth against the King.  he might now peradventure obtain the Crown for himself, if he would lay in for it: for he had a great power in a readiness, and no doubt but the most of the Leaguers would follow him, for fear lest if they should fall into the kings hands, he would punish them according to their deserts. With this resolution he left Dauphiny, and hasted into Burgundy, and champaign, taking with him such strength and power as he could get, and making sure as many places as he could come by, prepared to make war against the king.  
Paris which was the capitol City of the whole kingdom, and had more favoured the Guise then any other, was moved to great indignation, 
Paris and the rest of the principal City's rebel against the King,  and showed itself highly offended. And being further incensed with the piteous outcries and lamentable complaints of the Duchess' of Guise and Nemours, and with the invective Sermons of the jesuits, and Friars, grew into a desperate madness, shaking off the yoke of obedience, and rebelled openly against their natural Prince, and liege Lord. Most of the greatest, richest, and strongest Cities, as Orleans, Rouen, Amiens, Anjou, Lions, Abeville, Rheims, Tholous, and many others, followed the example of the Parisians, and conspiring with the rest of the Leaguers, imprisoned the King's friends, seized upon his strong holds, rob him of his treasure, and used him in all outrageous and rebellious manner.  
The King understanding of all these seditious stirs, sought by fair means and in gentle manner, to reduce them to their obedience, sending out his proclaimations to pardon whatsoever was past, and to bury it in the grave of oblivion, so that they would lay down their Arms, and live peaceably under his authority, 
The seditious divinity of the Sorbonists.  as in duty they were bound: but they made no reckoning of the kings clemency, but termed it cowardliness, as though he were afraid of their forces, being animated by the Sorbonists, and their Doctors in Theology, who had resolved that they were set free from their oath of obedience, and former allegiance made unto Henry the third. And that it was lawful for them, and for all the residue of the people of France, to take Arms against the said King Henry, and to persecute him, and all his adherents, with fire and sword, as enemies to God, to their Country, and to holy Church.  
When they had once gotten this advantage, that they were able to colour their proceed (as it were with an oracle from heaven) they made no more conscience at the matter, 
The duke de Maine made general of the Leaguers.  but presently determined to choose them a General for the leading of their forces, and to establish a new Council: by whose direction they might manage the rest of their affairs. They refused all the Princes of the blood, and chose the Duke de Maine, who was a man much favoured of the leaguers, 
The leaguers appoint a council of state.  and one that was well acquainted with all their practices. The Dukes of Aumaile, and Nemours, with the Chevalier of Aumaile, were made governors of Paris. There were also 47. of the most seditious, turbulent, factious, and bitterest enemies to the King, appointed to order the state, as the kings privy council had done in former times. These had no sooner gotten this authority into their hands, but they committed most horrible outrages against all such as they suspected to be the king's friends, imprisoning, murdering, robbing, sac●ing and spoiling them in such sort, as was never heard of within any man's remembrance, and going to the royal palace called the Lowre, they seized upon all the king's goods, 
The leaguers notorious disobedience.  they violated the great Seal of France, broke it in pieces, and trod it under their feet. They rend and tore the Arms of Valois, and Bourbon, and trailed them in most despiteful manner in the mire and dirt through the Streets: and assembling as many of the principal Leaguers, both of the Nobility, Clergy, and Commonalty as they could, wrote to other Cities, their Confederates, to follow their example, and to join with them, and also to procure as many partakers as they might, the better to countenance their proceed.  
The king had often and very seriously dissuaded them from this seditious course, and with all lenity sought to reduce them to their former obedience: but considering that he prevailed nothing by gentleness, and clemency, but rather that the people waxed worse & worse, he therefore now determined to take a sharper course, and by force to bring them under his obedience, but fearing his own weakness, and want of sufficient power to bring his purposes to pass for that he was, as it were compassed about with his enemies, not knowing what to do, or whom to trust, 
The king maketh peace with the 〈◊〉 of Navarre,  perceiving that the most of those who were about him, were favourers of the rebels, he was content to follow the advice of his most trusty councillors, and to make peace with the King of Navarre, and to use his counsel and forces for his just and lawful defence: and the rather for that the Duke de Maine approached very near unto him, with a great and puissant army. Thus was the king for the safety of his person, forced to cast himself into the arms of him, whom for many years he had reputed for his mortal enemy, and glad to seek to be preserved by such an one, whose destruction he had sought with all extremity.  
The King of Navarre being advertised of the King's intent, and solicited by sundry messengers to come to his aid with all expedition, called his Nobles and Captains, and gathered all his forces together, and passing over the Loire at Samnur, went towards the King, who was greatly distressed at Toures, and in imminent peril, to be oppressed by the Leaguers. 
The meeting of the King of France, & the King of Navarre.  The King understanding of his approach, the thirty of April sent the Mareschall Haultmont, accompanied with a great number of the Nobility, to desire him to come to Plesis de Tours: where he with all his Court stayed for him.  
The King of Navarre readily obeyed, passing over the bridge of Saint Saphorin, where he left all his forces in battle array, and went towards the King, whom he sound staying for him in the Park of Plessis. There was such a concourse of people, and so great a throng, that the two Kings were forced to stay above half a quarter of an hour, stretching and holding out their hands before they could embrace one another: so great was the press, and such a multitude were slocked together, to behold this joyful and blessed meeting. The kind embracings and loving salutations between these two Potentates, did evidently declare their inward joy & contentation. The rejoicing of all sorts was incredible: nothing was heard for the space of half an hour but God save the King: a voice which had not been heard near the Court in more than four Months before. And reiterating their joyful acclamations, they ceased not but cried out, God save the Kings, God save the King, and the King of Navarre.  
Here we may see a strange and marvelous alteration on the sudden: for these two Princes which had been so bitter enemies, each having for a long time pursued other by cruel and bloody wars, are now reconciled, and are become loving and kind friends. And the king, who not long before stood in danger, either to be murdered, or else to be delivered into the hands of those, who thirsted for nothing more than for his blood, is now freed from all fear, and restored to his former liberty: and is fortified by the arrival of this Prince and Army, which did both countenance his authority, and encourage his friends, and so daunted his enemies, that the Duke de Maine, 
The Duke de Maine hasteth to Paris.  was glad to give over his siege before Chasteaurenault, and so retire to Paris with all speed.  
The two kings sat often in council about their affairs, devising of the best means to prosecute their wars for their most advantage. The king of Navarre made many roads into the Country, to the great damage and hurt of the Leaguers, and so scoured the coast that no enemy durst once appear in sight. In the mean while the king received certain Regiments of Swissers, and help came from all parts of his Realm: so that his army daily increased in number, fame and power. And being now able to meet his enemies in the face, he marched toward Paris, 
The King marcheth toward Paris.  and took by the way Ponthois, Saint Clow, Poysey, Saint Germans, Charewton, and sundry other towns. By which means that great and populous City began to be sore distressed for want of victuals and other necessaries.  
This made the conspirators to tremble, and to lay their heads together, how to avoid this peril, 
The leaguers conspire to kill the King.  which now hung over their heads: whereupon the dukes of Maine, Aumatle, and Nemours, the Archbishop of Lions, whom the King a little before had pardoned and set at liberty, the Lord Rosue, Bosdauphin Brissac, Sagone, the 47. which were chosen for the Council, and the 17. Colonels, which were appointed over the 18. wards of the city assembled together: and after much reasoning, pro & contra, at last resolved that the only means to save themselves, and to advance their affairs, was to kill the King, who otherwise was likely to get the City in short time, and to take an exemplary punishment upon them, and all their adherents. Hereupon the King is once again condemned to die, and as speedy a course taken as might be devised to hasten his execution. 
Friar james Clement, appointed to kill the King.  They persuaded with one Friar james Clement, of the order of S. Dominicke, a lewd and bold hypocrite, and induced him with many reasons (who was otherwise ready enough to any mischief) to attempt this tragical and bloody act. They forced the first precedent of the Senate, named Harlay, whom for his faithfulness to his Prince, they had long detained in prison, to write letters to the K. which this Friar should carry with him. They taught the said Clement likewise a lesson, containing matters of great weight and importance, advising him that he should not disclose them to any but to the King, and that in private, and great secrecy. Providing him beside, a sharp & long knife, envenomed with deadly poison, wherewith he should adventure to murder the said King, as soon as he espied any fit occasion offered, and entreated Pagarola the Pope's Legate to bless him, and his knife for his better speed.  

Friar Clement goeth to the camp at Saint Clow.  The Friar being thoroughly schooled by this accursed company, prepareth for his journey: he putteth on his hypocritical weed on his back, layeth up his lesson in his head, and secretly hideth his poisoned knife in his sleeve, and taking an other Friar as bad as himself in his company, hasted to execute his devilish purpose and intent. He was no sooner come to the Camp, which then lay at Saint Clow, but he told such as he met first, that he had Letters to the King from the first Precedent, and certain other Parisians, well affected to his Majesty, containing matters of very great importance, besides many other weighty things to be declared by word of mouth. The King being forthwith advertised hereof, commanded that he should attend until he were called. Within a while after, the king willed that the Friar should be brought before him. The Friar entered very boldly into the king's Chamber, and being asked what his errant was, he answered that he had matters of great weight and importance, to declare unto his Majesty, and such as highly concerned his service, the king supposing that all was Gospel that the Friar said, commanded such as were about him to avoid the Chamber, and sat down in a Chair to hear the Friar's news. The Friar approached to the King, and falling upon his knees, began to tell a long tale: and occupying the kings ears with a long and lying discourse, espying his advantage, drew out his knife out of his sleeve, 
Friar Clement woundeth the king with a poisoned knife.  and stabbed the King in the lower part of his belly, and then made hast to get away. The king being wonderfully terrified with that unexpected attempt, cried out, and laying hand upon a dagger which was near him, struck the Friar, and wounded him. The Lords and Gentlemen which were attending in an utter Chamber, hearing the noise, came running in, and with their sword and Rapiers, 
Friar Clement is slain  slew the Friar.  
The King's Surgeons were presently called, and his wound dressed, and he laid on his bed. And for that he knew not whether he should die or not, he called for the king of Navarre, all the Princes, Lords, and Noble men, that were in his Camp, and for the Captains, Colonels, 
The King of Navarre made heir apparent to the crown of France.  and Chieftains of the strangers, before whom he declared, that the king of Navarre was the true, and indubitate heir to the Crown of France: praying and exhorthing all of them to acknowledge him, and to promise true obedience unto him, and to cause the like to be acknowledged in the whole Camp: and forthwith caused Letters to be written to all Provinces and Cities, to advertise them, how things had passed at Saint Clowe, and of his last will and Testament: requiring all his faithful subjects to protest the fulfilling of the same: instantly requiring all true Frenchmen to revenge his death, and to take condign punishment upon the authors of that impious & execrable fact, and so the two and twenty of julie 1●89. the poison prevailing, and dispersing itself through his body, 
The death of Henry the 3 the French King.  not withstanding all the remedies that could be devised, or imagined, he yielded up his life into the hands of him that gave it him, having reigned fourteen years, and seven months.  
And this was the end of Henry the third the French king, and king of Polonia, and the last of the house of Valois: who being bewitched with the sorceries of his mother, and inclining to evil by his own bad disposition, opposed himself against God's true religion, and being given over to work his own destruction, followed the wicked counsels of his notorious and sworn enemies, who spoke him fair to his face, but inwardly hated him, and never ceased persecuting of their devilish devices, until they had brought his state to confusion, and procured his untimely death and destruction.   

CHAP. XXVI.  
Henry the fourth the French King, overthroweth the Leaguers in two several battles. Great famine in Paris. The Duke of Parma entereth into France, relieveth Paris. From whence he flieth again in great haste into the Low Countries. The Pope excommunicateth the King, Who causeth his Bull to be burned at Towers. The great Army of the Germianes. The Duke of Parma goeth the s●conde time into France, and prevaileth greatly against the King. The Leaguers seek for peace. The King incline to Popery. His coronation. Paris with most of the great Cities of France turn to the King.  
IMmediately after the death of Henry the third, Henry of Bourbon King of Navarre, and the true inheritor to the Crown of France, both by his own right, and by the last will and testament of the late King, 
The princes, Nobles, and soldiers take their oath of obedience to Henry the fourth.  was proclaimed King of France, by the name of King Henry the forth, and so acknowledged by all the Princes, Nobles, Colonels, Captains and soldiers in the Camp, after the ancient manner of choosing the Roman Emperors, giving him their oaths of fidelity and obedience, with protestation to assist him to maintain his royal and princely authority against all traitors, rebels, and leaguers, to the uttermost of their powers. The Prince Montpensier, being then at Audly, a town upon the River of Seyne, caused likewise all his army to take the like oath, exhorting them to defend constantly the late kings will, and valiantly to oppose themselves against all seditious persons, & despisers of gods lawful ordinance, traitors to their King. & sworn enemies to their own country.  
This Henry of Bourbon King of Navarre, and now the French king (and so hereafter he shall be termed) considering the strength of his open enemies, and fearing the treachery of many in the Camp, who were devoted to the league, knowing that they might be a means to distress him, being so near unto a great number of his evil willers, who were likely to double their rage, by reason of this exploit done upon the late King's person, 
The French King retireth toward Norman de.  thought good to licence so many as he suspected, to departed the camp, and determined to retire with the rest into Normandy, somewhat further from his enemies, and to gather as great a power as he could of his trustiest, and most assured friends, and in the mean time, to view the attempts and preparations of the Leaguers.  

The army of the D. de Maine.  The D. de Maine, besides all the bands which he had collected of the French rebels, received certain Swart Rutters under the leading of the Duke of Brimswicke. The Duke of Lorraine sent his son likewise called the Marquis of Pont. with certain companies of horsemen with this great army, which amounted to the number of 25000. men. The Duke de Maine marched towards Deep, where the King lay with some nine or ten thousand men: who understanding of the approach of the enemy, took the field with those forces which he had, and encamped at Arques, about two miles from Deep, where he stayed not long, but that the enemy appeared in fight at a village not far off, called Martinglize. The king sent out forthwith his light horsemen to discover, between whom & the forerunners of the Leaguers, there were many hot skirmishes. On the 19 day of September the enemy passed over a little river which ran between both Armies, and put himself in battle array very well ordered & strongly appointed▪ and marched directly towards the king. The Lord Billing with two thousand shot was appointed to charge first, and the Duke de Maine stood behind him, with a strong battle ready to secure as need required. The king had quickly ordered his battalion, & having disposed of all things in as warlike manner as he could devise, sent forth his light horsemen to charge the enemy, who were backed with the Prince of Conde, led by the Lord Montaret. His battalion of footmen was flanked with his own cornet, wherein were the Lord Grand Pryer of France, the Count Rochfaucoult, the Count Rossy his brother, the Count Rochfort, with divers other Gentlemen of great reckoning, and such as were nearest about his person: and having called upon God to aid him in his just and righteous quarrel, so furiously charged the enemy, that he left five hundred dead upon the place at that instant. The rest seeing the slaughter of their fellows, and the fury of the king's soldiers, began to shrink, and in a short time to fly away in great fear and disorder.  
The Principal men of the Leaguers which were slain, were the Lord Saint Andrew Sagne, Colonel of the light horsemen, the Lord Saint Vidal Lieutenant of the ordinance, the Lord Vienuille, Count Billing, Temblecourt, Savelak, and divers others were taken prisoners. The king lost the Count Rossy, brother to Rochfaucont, and the Lord Bake Ville a Gentleman of very worthy and commendable parts, and not past some thirty or forty others.  
The Duke de Maine seeing his bad luck, retired his beaten troops towards Picardy: the king being strengthened with the forces of the Prince of Soysons, Duke Languaville, and Mareschall Haultmont, besides four thousand Englishmen newly sent him out of England, 
The Lord Willowby.  under the leading of the right noble and valiant Lord Willowby: departed from Deep, & coasted the enemy, till he came to Menlau and then returned toward Paris, supposing that by that means he should draw the Duke to follow him, and so bring him to a battle. 
The king bringeth hi● army before Paris.  The King coming to Paris about the 28. of October, determined to assault the suburbs, and having prepared all things in a readiness for that purpose, assailed them the first of November following: where he found some resistance, but the courage of the Soldiers redoubled with the presence of the Prince, was such, 
The suburbs of S. Germans taken.  that they quickly gained them, and slew above a thousand and five hundred of their enemies: there were also taken fourteen ensigns, and thirteen pieces of ordinance. The king seeing the Leaguers attempted nothing but that they kept themselves close within the Walls, albeit the Duke de Maine was entered within the City with all his forces, 
The cruelty of de Maine  being moved with sundry weighty causes, resolved to dislodge, and to employ his forces in some other places. He was no sooner departed, but that the Duke de Maine picked a quarrel against divers of the richest Citizens, charging them that they had conspired against the holy League, and procured the King to come to Paris, which promised to deliver the City into his hands, whereupon many were condemned and executed, and their goods seized to the use of the League.  
The King marched with all his power towards the Loire and Seyne, purposing to redeem the Towns which lay between those two rivers under his obedience, and in his way took Estamps, Ianuille, Chasteandune, Vendosme, Laverdin, Chasteande, Loire, Montevert, Cheer and Montrichard, yielded of their own accord. The strong town of Man's was taken by composition, Sablis, Laual, Chasteantier, with the Castles of Beanmont, Towoy, and Alenson, with many other places of importance, were likewise yielded unto the king, so that in a short space he had gotten very great number of strong ●ownes, Castles, and Cities, yea, very large and mighty provinces, out of the hands of the turbulent and seditious Leaguers. The Lord Diguceres likewise joining with the Lord Valette, brother to the Duke of Espernon, prevailed mightily in Province & Languedoc, and brought the greatest part of those Countries under the king's obedience.  
The Duke de Maine lay all this while in Paris, and did nothing until the coming of the Pope's Legate called Hemico Caietano, 
The Duke de Maine receiveth Money from the Pope and the King of Spain.  but then he began to stir being animated by this Ambassador, who brought with him fifty thousand Ducats from Rome: he also received three hundred thousand Crowns from the Spaniard, and by an excessive tax imposed upon the Parisians, with the spoil and havoc which was made upon the Royals and richest merchants: he got above a Million of gold, with which and the rest of his exhibition from Rome and Spain, he furnished his Army with all necessaries, and leaving Paris went forth to seek the king, having in his army three thousand horse, and thirty thousand footmen. He took by the way the Castle of Viennes, and in the latter end of januarie got Ponthois, from whence he removed, and planted his siege before Meulan.  

The Duke of Parma sendeth forces to aid Duke de Maine.  The Duke of Parma sent the Count Egmond, and the Lord La Mote, governor of graveling, with some five or six thousand chosen Soldiers to the aid of the Leaguers the Duke de Maine received them in Picardy, and joining them with the rest of his forces, marched towards Dammartin, drawing near unto the king, who was then at siege before Dreux. The King was no sooner advertised hereof, but that he raised his siege, and hasted toward Yury, where he supposed that the Duke with all his forces had been lodged, 
1590.  and coming to a place near unto the Town called Saint Andrew's plain, he ordered his battles, 
The King's battle.  dividing all his horsemen into seven esquadrons, flanking them very strongly with their several battalions of footmen, every one with their Enfans Perdus in their front, ready to attach the skirmish assoon as the enemy should appear. The first Squadron was led by the Mareschall Aulmont, wherein in was three hundred horse, and twelve Regiments of French footmen. The Prince Montpencier led the second, which consisted of three hundred horse and four hundred Lansquenetes, and a Regiment of Swissers. The third being divided into two companies containing four hundred light horse, were somewhat further advanced than the former two, and were led by the Lord Grand prior, the lord Guynny. The Baron of Byron commanded over the fourth wherein were two hundred and fifty good horses, with certain Cornets of light horsemen. In the fift was the king himself with six hundred horse, flanked on each side with four Regiments of Swissers. The sixth was led by the Mareschall Byron, with two hundred and fifty horses, and two Regiments of French footmen. The seventh squadron was a great Hot of Rutters, strengthened with French footmen as was used in other battles.  
The Duke de Ma●ne resolving to try his fortune at that present, 
The Duke de Manes battle.  set likewise his forces in battle array, and taking his Cornet consisting of some two hundred and fifty horses, put himself in the midst of two squadrons of Lances, which came out of the low countries, wherein were some twelve or thirteen hundred horse. The Duke of Nemours with other two hundred and fifty horse, & the Chevalier D' Aumaile with his band of horse, incorporated themselves with this huge company of Lances, containing now in all, some thousand eight hundred horsemen, marching in front they were flanked also with two Regiments of Swissers, lined with French shot. There were two other squadrons of Lances, the one compounded of French, Italians, & Albaneses, the other of Walloons and Spaniards, and between them both a strong battilon of French enfantery and Lansquenetes, who had on their right wing seven hundred Rutters, and on the left wing five hundred, with four culverins.  
All things being thus ordered, and both armies in a readiness for a general fight, the great ordinance began to thunder on both sides: the fury whereof being once past, 
The Duke de Maine overthrown in the plain of Saint Andrew.  the horsemen and footmen charged each other courageously, and maintained a cruel and bloody fight for a long time, but at length the victory inclined to the King, and the whole power of the Duke was overthrown. The King himself that day fought valiantly, and performed both the duty of a prudent captain and a courageous and hardy Soldier. There were slain very near two thousand horsemen of the enemies, and many of them commanders. Some twelve or thirteen hundred were drowned in the River of Yury: the most part of the footmen were cut in pieces, and above four hundred were taken prisoners: all the Swissers yielded to the king's mercy: the Duke de Maine ran away with the foremost, leaving his friends to the mercy of their enemies, and lost all his ordinance and munition: the Duke of Nemours, Bassampierre, Tauannes, Rosue, and many others, fled to Dreux: the chiefest that was slain was the Count Egmond, knight of the order of the golden Fleece, and the general over the forces sent from the Duke of Parma out of the low countries: the young Count of Brunswick, captain Collen a Spaniard, and the Lord of Chastaneray: the Principal prisoners were the Lord Austfrist, with many other Italian and Spanish Lords, the Lord Boysdauphin, who bore the white Cornet of the Duke de Maine, was likewise taken prisoner, and with him, Fountain, Martell, Lechant, and many other Gentlemen of good account.  
On the king's side there were slain the Lord Clermont, Autragne, one of the Captains of the king's guard, the Lord Tishcombert, Longanuay, Crenay, Vienne, Muaville, Fequiers, with some other twenty or thirty Gentlemen at the most. The marquess of nest, the Eearle Choysy, the Lord de O, the Count Lud, the Lords Moulevet, Lavergue, Rosne, and many others were hurt, but not in danger of death: and this was the end of this great battle, fought in the plain of Saint Andrew, the fourth of March, 1590.  
The fame of this glorious victory over the Leaguers so terrified sundry towns, that they yielded forthwith, and sent to crave pardon for their former offences. Mante, Vernon, Cressy, Lagny, Poysy, Saint German, and Saint Clow, were the first that were drawn to their due obedience, by whose examples sundry others were easily, reclaimed and yielded upon their first sommance: the king being glad of this fortunate success, resolved to besiege Paris: whereof when as the Parisians 
The Parisians prepare to endure a siege.  were informed, as also of the overthrow of the Duke de Maine, they were marvelously affrighted, and t●e rather for that they had promised themselves an assured victory, grounding upon the Duke's proud brags, and the fantastical prophecies of sundry seditious Friars, and had not the Duke Henrico Caietanc the Pope's Nuntio, and Barnardin Mendoza scattered good store of Crowns among the jesuits and such friar-like fellows, who should with their seditious Sermons encourage the people to persist in their rebellious actions, and corrupted the principal inhabitants with money and fair promises: the Parisians had in that conservation of mind come to ask pardon as well as others: but they being seduced by their chieftains and ringleaders, began to bethink them how to fortify their Cities, and to make themselves able to endure a siege.  
The king seeing their obstinacy, followed his course, and knowing the City to be very populous, and nothing well provided for so many months, determined to take all the passages, and to block in the Parisians so sure, that they should come by no victuals, making choice to vanquish them rather by famine then by the sword, as the safest way to punish his enemies, and to save his friends. He therefore seized upon all the strong Towns about the City, as Corbeil, Melun, Montereaufault, Yonne, and Charenten, and stopping the River of Oyse, Marne, Yonne, and Seyne, would not suffer any provision to be conveyed into the City. Whereupon there began to grow great scarcenesss, 
The Duke de Maine goeth to Bruxelles to the Duke of Parma for aid.  and a sore famine threatened that rebellious multitude. The Duke de Maine was gone into Peronne in Picardy, and from thence to Bruxelles, to the Duke of Parma, to entreat him to come to the succours of the League and used all the other means he could to levy new forces: and having had some promises from Spain, assured himself of aid out of the low Countries, wherewith he should be once again able to meet the king, who all this while lay before Paris, and attempted nothing but only to keep it from victuals, and by that means had so famished the town of S. Dennis, 
S. Dennis, yieldeth to the King.  that after that they had consumed all their old store, and had eaten up their horses, dogs, cats, rats, mice, roots, herbs, & much bread made of ground straw beaten to powder, they were enforced to yield to the king's mercy, who used them very graciously Penury and want likewise so pressed the City of Paris, 
Great famine in Paris.  that by the beginning of july there were no dainties to be found in the City, but the Parisians were glad to fall to such homely viands, as not long before had served for a dish at S. Dennis. Yea, so great and so horrible was the famine, that there were many children eaten and devoured by those hungry and starven rebels.  
When the Duke da Maine who was still attending upon the Duke of Parma, was advertised of the great and extreme penury that was among the Parisians, as also of the uproars and murtherings of the people, he wrote letters full of rich promises, assuring them of the coming of the Duke of Parma and himself, with a sufficient number to rail the siege. The miserable people oppressed with the tyranny of their rulers, hardened with seditious sermons, blinded with ignorance, seduced with malice, and said with much villainy from Spain, from the Pope, and from this Duke, and by God's just judgement given over to a reprobate sense, held out obstinately, and would by no persuasions be induced to submit themselves unto the King's mercy.  
The hope that the Spaniard had to conquer France, and to  himself with the rich spoil of the Flower de Lis, made the Duke of Parma to give better ear to the Duke de Maine, 
The Duke of Parma entereth into France.  and to hearken to the succours of the distressed Leaguers, so that having gathered a power of some 15000. Spaniards, Italians, Walloons, and Flemings, all of the old bands of the country: in the latter end of August he entered into France, and joining with the forces of the Duke de Maine, marched towards Paris. The King having to deal with so great an enemy, broke up his siege and went to meet him as far as the plain of Boundy, and there ordered his battles, & made himself ready to end the quarrel by a general fight: the King's army consisted of 10000 French footmen, 4000 Swissers, 4000 horsemen, the greatest number whereof were gentlemen of the cheerest houses in France, and 800. Rutters: there were six Princes, two Mareschalles of France, and a great number of noblemen, captains, and Gentlemen, who were able to lead as great an army as that was. The Duke of Parma having discovered all his warlike multitude from the top of a hill, returned to his camp, and caused his soldiers to entrench themselves as strongly as they could, and refused to fight, 
The Duke of Parma refuseth to fight.  albeit the king stayed for him by the space of three days together: but afterward perceiving that the Duke would not be drawn to a battle by no means, he determined to break up his army, and to send his soldiers into several provinces to rest and relieve them after so painful and laborious a journey, and so to make them fresh and lusty against he should have better opportunity to fight against his enemies.  
Assoon as the king was departed well near twenty Leagues off, and that he had divided his forces by sending them into several places, 
The Duke of Parma entereth into Paris.  the Duke got him out of the trenches & hasted to Paris, where he was welcomed with great joy: but he had not continued there long, but the tyranny, pride, and villainy of the Spaniard and hispaniolized was such, that the Parisians waxed weary of that intolerable burden, & would feign have been rid of them and they had witted how, they therefore entreated the duke to open the river for the traffic, which he promised, & undertook the siege of Corbaile, which, after 3. assaults wherein he lost a great number of his best & most approved soldiers, he took by force, & showed all cruelty upon the inhabitants. He made the Parisians believe that he would go from thence to take Poysy, Meulan, Maule, Vernon, & Pont deal Arch: but indeed he was not so good as his word, for he did nothing of all this, but trifled out the time, 
The Duke of Parma fli th' out of France.  & fed the citizens with fair words until the latter end of October, and then marched homeward through Bric, being followed hard at the heels, by the king and those small forces which he could raise upon the sudden, as far as L' Arbre de Guyze, where he entered into the low countries with not past some 8000. of all that company wherewith he had entered into France.  
After that the Duke of Parma was gotten into the low Countries, the king having gathered all his forces together marched toward Chartres, which he besieged, 
Chartres taken by the the king.  and after many sharp assaults took it, and brought it under his obedience, he took also Aulnean, Machiavelli, Dourdan, Bonsery, Day, Tremblay, Manican, Ginlis, and so scoured all the part of Picardy, that no enemy durst once show his face, and from thence passed into Britain, where he defeated the Lord Saint Laurence, Mareschall of the Army of the rebels under Duke Mercury, and surprised Louuiers, where he found great store of Corn, Wine, and all other necessary provision, besides four thousand fat Oxen, wherewith he plentifully victualled his army for many days.  

Cinqcens' tooken.  About the same time the Lord Chartres, governor for the King in Deep, and Sir Roger William's a very courageous and well experienced English knight, with their English & French forces, amounting to some seven hundred men, defeated two regiments of the Leaguers at a place called Cinqcens, and put them in a manner all to the sword. The Prince Conty took Mount Morillon, Chaurguy, S. Savin, Blank en Bury, Bourge, Archambault, pleasance, Bellarbre, Avails, Betoune, Bisse, and many other forts and Castles in Limosin and Toureyne. The Prince D' Ombs accompanied with the valiant, fortunate, and noble Gentleman Sir john Norris, general of such forces as were sent out of England for the aid of the K. into Britain, took Guingcampe, 
Cuingcampe taken.  where there were a great number of the Nobility and Gentlemen of the Country, who with the Town paid fifty thousand Crowns for their Ransom, and took the oath of Obedience to the king: and passing from thence to Quelnec, encountered with the Duke Mercury a principal Leaguer, who at the first showed a countenance as though he would have tried the quarrel by an entire fight: but after the loss of some two or three hundred Spanish and French Leaguers, with Don Roderigo, chief Mareschall of the Spaniards, and the Lord Guebrian Colonel of all the footmen, he retired further off to places of greater security.  
The king was now at the siege of Noyon, 
Noyon taken.  which in the end yielded upon composition, and the Lord Vile submitted himself to the king, and had leave to departed whither he would: the Leaguers seeing the kings fortunate success, fearing that all in the end would yield unto him, procured a new excommunication from Rome against him and all his faithful subjects, 
The Pope excommunicateth the King.  and caused it to be published at Pont deal Arch in Normandy, by Marcellus Landrianus, a saucy and malapert jesuite: but the king being advertised hereof, commanded his Court of parliament holden at Cane to proceed against Pope Gregory the fourteenth, who sent it, and his Nuntio that brought it, as against tyrants, conspirators with rebels, perturbers of the State, sowers of sedition, a●● the common and notorious enemies of GOD and all goodness, and taking the Pope's Bull, 
The Pope's Bull hanged upon the gallows and burned at Tours.  caused it to be fastened to a gibbet at Tours, by the common hangman of the town, and to be consumed to ashes, to the great rejoicing of all the beholders.  
The King understanding that the right honourable Lord the Earl of Essex was now arrived in France with a band of very brave men, and was marching towards him, went to meet the said Earl at a place called Gysors, where he remained not long, but returned towards champaign, for that he understood that his Germans were now in a readiness to march on forwards on their way towards France. In the mean while the English forces took the town of Gourny, and joining with the Marshal Byron, 
Go●rney ta-t●ken by th● earl of E●●●x  distressed the Leaguers in those quarters.  
Much about this time the Prince jenuille son to Francis late Duke of Guise, escaped out of prison at Tours, where he had been kept for the space of three years and more, 
The young D. of Guise escapeth out of prison.  and having the ways laid with fresh horse by the counsel of the Lord De la Chastre, his kinsman got safely to sells, and from thence to Verdun, where he was most joyfully received of all the Leaguers, who had attended his coming with great devotion, and were exceeding glad that they had recovered him, by whose means they imagined the better to countenance their actions, and to effect their intended purpose. Howbeit, this their joy was forthwith crossed by the coming of the Germans, who were already entered into France, and hasted to the succours of the king.  
This great and mighty Army wherein were some two or three and twenty thousand footmen and horsemen, 
The army of the   was divided into sundry battalions, and led by their several chieftains and commanders. The Vicont of Turennes conducted the Vanguard, wherein were some 1600 horse, next whom followed the Earl of Anhoult, chief commander in the Army, with two thousand and two hundred horse. The third place was allotted to Barbisderse, with a squadron of some 1000 horse. Iselstenius & the Lieutenant of the Lord Robours, led 8. or 900. footmen. Creighnicht, Bernhard, Dessaw, and Bonnaw, had their several regiments, & each consisted of a 1000 horse. The Lord Laudins and the Earl of Wide had under their leading 6400. footmen, equally divided into two great squadrons, which were flanked as it were with another strong battalion, wherein were about 4300. footmen, and 200. horse, led by Templuys and the Earl of Weda. Christopher de Fesler with 300. footmen, served as a wing on the left hand, between whom and the Earl of Wide was the young Earl of Westenberg with 3400. footmen: there was also marvelous store of all warlike munition, as great Artillery, powder, shot, bridges, boats, spades, shovels, pickaxes, and all other necessaries for the wars, and nothing wanting which was requisite for the advancement of their affairs: The Duke of Lorraine made all the preparation that might be to stop the passage of these Germans, and to that end stuffed all his frontier towns with strong garrisons: but they opening their way by force, passed forwards, and by easy journeys came to the king, who being strenhthened with these new forces, resolved to besiege Boar. The Leaguers being now not able to encounter with the king in the field, fortified the City as strong as they could, and attended the coming of the Duke of Parma, whose aid they had instantly desired, the better to maintain head against the king.  
The Duke understanding in what terms the Leaguers stood, & knowing that the loss of Rouen, being a principal City in France, 
1592. The duke of Parma goeth the second time into France.  and the chiefest in Normandy, would be very prejudicial unto that mystery, which lay secretly enclosed in his breast, and a great means to cross the proceed of the Spanish king, & hispaniolized French, gathered a great power, and leaving the government of the Low countries to the Count Mansford, marched towards France, which he entered about the midst of january with some 8. or 9000. Spaniards, Italians, Dutch, Walloons, & joining with the Leaguers so increased his army, that he grew to be some 17. or 18000 strong, with which power he determined to raise the King's siege, & to deliver them who had with so great earnestness sought his help, and with this resolution he marched towards Rouen, which assoon as those who kept the town understood, they began to pluck up their hearts, and made many sallies forth upon the king's forces but being valiantly withstood & shrewdly beaten, were glad to return with the loss often times of their valiantest leaders and most forward soldiers. Now as the Leaguers within the town begun to be punished with many miseries, & the famine daily increased to the destruction of many so penury and want of necessaries began to creep in among the king's soldiers, and by reason it was in the extreme of the Winter, many perished with cold, and great numbers fell into very sore & grievous diseases: notwithstanding, the siege was still continued, and all the politic devices that might be put in practice to gain the city. The Duke being about Rue, and there thoroughly informed as well of the state of Rouen, as of the courage & resolution of the king's forces, would not attempt any thing rashly, but sending for greater forces out of Flanders, under the conduct of the Earls of Aremberg and Barlemont, kept himself close for a while, purposing as it seemed, to protract the time, & to cause the K. who (as is already said) began to fall into manifold wants, to raise his siege from before the city: but the Duke perceiving that this depose took not so speedy effect as he desired, & pondering with himself how hard & dangerous a matter it was to relieve the city by force, 
The politic d●uise of the Duke.  sought by a cunning & politic devise to bring his business about, and therefore on the sudden dislodged, & retired his whole power over the River of Some, as though he had purposed to return home again without any more ado. Which when the king perceived, and now verily thinking that he had been quite gone, he licenced the greatest part of his Nobility and Gentlemen to depart home to their houses, there to refresh themselves after so long & tedious travail, & reserving a sufficient number to maintain the siege, the K. departed to Deep there to repose himself and to take counsel for the ordering of the rest of his affairs.  
The Duke was quickly informed by his espials of whatsoever the king had done, 
The Duke returns towards Rouen.  and ●nowing now that all his advantage consisted in, celerity caused his troops on the sudden to turn head and to march back again towards Rouen, and using great expedition, so fast approached, that the king's army being not ready to encounter him, and no assured course taken to cross his designments, he besieged Candebeck, a town standing upon the river between New-haven & Rouen. 
Rouen relee●●d by the 〈◊〉 of Parma.  By this means was the river cleared, & liberty obtained to pass and repass without peril: then were there forthwith a great number of ships provided, & being thoroughly furnished with victuals and all other necessaries, were sent to Rouen to relieve the Leaguers who were now extremely distressed and almost famished. The King sought all the opportunity that might be to fight with the Duke, and offered many skirmishes to draw him thereto, but he knowing fortune to be very inconstant, and in the wars especially to be most wavering and uncertain, utterly refused to hazard all upon a Battle, and understanding that there was some scarcity in the king's camp, and that it was impossible that so great a multitude should be long kept together in a Country so exceedingly wasted, where there were no means to relieve their wants, kept himself close, and sought to weary his enemies by his long delays.  
The K. daily braved the Spaniards in the face, & dared them by many indignities to come to handy strokes: which made the Duke resolve to do somewhat, albeit he were sickly and most unwilling to fight, 
The Duke would not be drawn to an entire fight.  supposing that if he should not stir upon so many provocations, his enemies would wax more courageous, and himself with all his Spaniards should lose much of their wont honour & reputation. Whereupon he determined to encounter with the king's forces, and to make some trial of the courage and resolution of his enemies: yet so warily, that he would be sure not to bring himself and his soldiers to a set battle, but by some light conflict to maintain his honour: and by a Spanish bravado, to make the world believe, that he did but little esteem of the king, and all his forces. Whereupon every thing being in a readiness, and having encouraged his troops with sundry persuasions, the signal was no sooner given, but there began a sharp and cruel fight, which hastened the death of many brave and valiant soldiers. But the Duke espying the King's side to be too strong, and that his men were put to the worse, withdrew his troops within their entrenchments, having lost the young Lord of Chastres, and many other of great reckoning and account. The duke's horse was shot through with a bullet. The Count Horratio, Scipio, and Hannibal Bentivolio, with many others were sore wounded and in danger of their lives. The Duke not liking to try the quarrel any more by force, fell to his old politic practices, 
The duke de Maine entereth Rouen.  and laboured by all possible means to get away away from the king without any further fight. Wherefore leaving a garrison of some 500 Spaniards, French and Walloons in Caudebecke, and sending the Duke de Maine with 3000. Leaguers into Rouen, he reposing himself for a while within the City, at length marched away, as strongly and as closely as he could toward Paris, 
The D. of Parma marcheth toward Paris.  there to refresh them after so long and tedious travails: as also to make trial what store of Crowns might be gotten to satisfy his greedy Soldiers. The King pursued him, and following him in the tail, watched to skirmish with him upon every advantage. But seeing he could not effect that, which he so earnestly affected, which was to draw him to an entire fight: he caused all his troops to turn head, and led them before Caudebecke, which he forthwith recovered from the Leaguers, and leaving a strong garrison to defend the River, he retired to Deep, 
The King goeth to Deep.  giving leave to the greatest part of his army to go refresh themselves in more fertile and commodious countries.  
Thus was Rouen delivered out of the hands of the King, by the coming of the duke to the great encouragement of the Leaguers, who seeing the kings fortune to frown, began to triumph, and to rejoice exceedingly for this their unexpected relief: and the rather for that this their good hap was seconded by diverse other fortunate exploits in other places: for the Duke Joyense overthrew certain of the kings troops before Lautrech, as they went to surprise the sa●d town, being betrayed by some of those, who had promised them to be a means to let them enter without any impeachment. But they using this as a stratagem to entrap the King's soldiers, 
The leaguers overthrow sundry of the King's forces.  informed the Duke of all their proceed: who as soon as he had intelligence thereof, gathered a strong power, and lying in ambush by the way as they s●ould pass, suddenly set upon them, and slew three or four hundred, and took 200. prisoners: among whom were Monsieur de Violet, de Godius, & sundry others of very good account. Three hundred fled to a castle not far off, called lafoy trap, which was forthwith besieged by the said Duke, and the leaguers: they who were within the castle valiantly defended the place for a while, enduring some thirty or forty Canon shot at length considering their want of necessaries, & how they were not able to maintain themselves as they desired, they yielded, having lost Colaun: bieres, Tanieuse, L'estolies, Raveleus, Bertrand, Deluan, Biense, de Lucques, La Brosse, Lespinac, and many other chieftains and commanders. La Barry, Portale●se, Pibrac, beside, sundry gentlemen were taken prisoners, and well near two hundred common soldiers. About the same time Duke Mercury likewise overthrew the power of the prince of Conty, & the prince D' Ombes in Britain: and having taken ten field pieces from them, slew many of their bravest and valiantest men, as Membraise, Rochpot, Picheres, with some others, prevailing mightily in those quarters, and reducing sundry towns under the obedience of the seditious league. Thus did the King's affairs begin to go backward, and many towns who were wavering before, did now wholly abandon the King, and join with the rebels. Sundry of the nobility, who were popishly affected, and therefore glad of the King's bad success, revolted, and secretly conveyed themselves away, either to the enemy, or into their own countries, and by their bad example, drew on infinite numbers to take the same course, forsaking their lawful prince when he stood in greatest need of their service, exposing that noble kingdom to the barbarous villainy of that viperous brood, who never cease gnawing out of the bowels of her, that should be their dearest and best beloved mother.  
The King wanting sufficient power to stop these wicked proceed, was forced to suffer the rebels to range at large, and to get many of his towns, both in Normandy, Britain, Province, and Dauphiny: They took likewise Espernon: wherein they found great store of wine, corn, & other necessaries for the wars. These fortunate exploits so encouraged that rebellious rout, and so puffed them up with the pride of their own forces, that they utterly refused to bow their necks under the yoke of obedience: or to admit of any other government than such as pleased themselves. The king was loath to lose Espernon, being a town of very good importance, and therefore drew all his forces to the siege thereof, where the Mareschall Byron was slain 
Mareschall Byron slain.  with a shot from the wall, while he was very busy in viewing the army, & in giving order for the planting of the siege Yea, and the king himself was in great peril, 
The danger of the King.  having his horse killed under him with the same bullet, wherewith the Mareschall was slain before. Duke Mercury in the mean time took Manus in Britain, and the duke de Maine recovered Caudebecke, and cleared all the river from New-haven up to Rouen. The D. of Nemours, governor of Lions, took Vienna and Valence, and by that means commanded the river of Rhodanus. Now were the Germans who came into France in 91. desirous to return home: so that taking their leave of the French K. they marched toward Germany as fast as they could: but by reason they were not so many, nor so strong as when they came first into France, they were desirous to pass rather by leave then by force, and therefore they thought it convenient to send to the Duke of Parma for to obtain Licence of him, that they might quietly pass through the Dukedom of Luxemburge, who readily condescended thereto, upon condition that they should not rifle the Country as they went, but should travail in peaceable manner, and pay for whatsoever they took. Thus this great and mighty Army which had in conceit devoured half France, 
The Germans return home.  and at their coming had opened their way by fine force, returned home without doing of any great matter, and were driven to ask leave and to sue to their enemies for their passport, such and so strange an alteration ensued in a short space.  
The Leaguers being drunken with this prosperous success, began to consult about the election of a new King, and to that end the Duke of Ferta, and the Cardinal of Sens, 
The Leaguers consult about a new King.  the Pope's Nuntio were sent to Paris to be present as assistants in this weighty business, as well to aid with their advise and counsel, as to persuade with sundry great states, who as yet were not fully resolved in this point, neither whether they should assent to so wicked and desperate proceed.  
Now albeit that the rebellious multitude had prospered for a long time, and were grown in a manner to the full period of their desires, having effected many things greatly tending to the countenancing of their affairs, in so much as that they had gained the strongest & richest cities, with infinite numbers of turbulent and seditious heads to join hand in hand with them, and to take part in these their wicked and desperate attempts: yet, as it always falleth out among such a confused and brainsick rabble, each mistrusted other, and being often admonished by the secret warnings of their own consciences how damnable a course they had run, as also considering the intolerable servitude whereto they were likely to bring themselves and their posterity if they should longer submit themselves to their Spanish protector, and likewise seriously pondering the king's estate, which was still supported by the chief Princes of the blood, the ancient and most honourable Nobility of France, favoured by a number of valiant and wise personages, and countenanced by sundry mighty Princes abroad, so that it still seemed to be impossible to bring their purposes to pass, but rather that they should hazard their own estates, their lives and liberties, yea, and in fine the whold kingdom, by calling in the Spaniards their old and ancient enemies, who sought for nothing more than for the spoil of the Flower de Lis. All these reasons with many other being well weighed, they supposed it to be their best, to reconcile themselves to their king, of whole ready inclination to peace, 
The Leaguers seek for peace.  though it were with hard conditions, they nothing doubted: whereupon they first privily practised with sundry of the Papists which followed the king, whereof there were no small number, and having by their means made as it were an entry unto their pretenced purpose, they sent their deputies to treat of a peace for three months, whereto the king assented in july 1593. and afterwards continued the same for two months more, videlicet, unto the end of the month of December following: in all which time there was nothing done, otherwise then the sending of sundry messages each to other, with continual practising to draw the king to the liking of Popery: wherein there was such pains taken, and so far human policy prevailed, that this noble and famous Prince who had for the space of four or five and twenty years so valiantly and fortunately de●ended the Gospel, and that with the hazard and peril of his own life, 
The K. inclineth to Popery.  freely exposing his royal person, his treasure, his friends, and all other means whatsoever ●o● the maintenance thereof, began to wax calm in the defence of his profession, and to incline to that false and superstitious Religion of Rome, to the high displeasure of almighty God, the great dishonour of his princely Majesty, and to the extreme grief and astonishment of all the Protestants. Thus this noble and renowned Monarch, the hope (as it were) of all that favoured God's truth, whom God had beautified with so many excellent graces and notable virtues, as courage, wisdom, zeal and constancy in so many apparent dangers, & had made him the protecter and comforter of his afflicted church in France, had delivered him out of the hands of all his enemies, 
2. Sam. 12.8  and had given him his Lord's house (as the Prophet speaketh) and if that had been too little, would have given him much more, making his proudest enemies to stoop before him, and to the admiration and wonderment of all men continually protected him in despite of all those who sought his ruin and overthrow, is another argument of the mutability and interchangeable estate of all things in the world, and that not only the heavens, the earth, the sea, the beasts of the field, the fishes in the waters, and the souls of the air are full of variety and change, but likewise kingdoms, countries, and commonwealths, Cities, and towns, all estates and conditions, of men high and low, rich and poor, wise and foolish, Prince and people, are full of change and alteration.  

Sundry principal Cities of France return to the King.  In januarie and February immediately following the Kings so apparent inclination to Popery, most of the principal Cities of France which had with so notorious obstinacy for a long while shaken off the yoke of their obedience, began to be reclaimed, and as it were on the sudden to be arranged on the king's side, & Meaux, Lions, Orleans, Bourges, Ponto●se, with many other towns of special monument & account opened their gates and willingly received the king's garrisons, crying Vine Henry 4. roy de France & de Navarre, expelling the Spaniards and hispaniolised French, showing great forwardness to withstand the outrageous proceed of the furious and desperate Leaguers.  
The king had no sooner reduced these strong Towns under his obedience, having by this means mightily strengthened himself and weakened his enemies, but that he was forthwith advised by the Princes of his blood, the dukes and peers of France, the officers of his Crown, the Lords of his Council, and the most notable personages of his courts of Parliaments, to frame himself to his coronation and anointing, and that in such manner as all other kings his predecessors had done before him. Which said ceremonious order of anointing is accounted the evident token of their royalty, and the public approbation of the French nation. Whereto the K. assenting as one now intending to observe the ancient customs of his predecessors: it was resolved that this solemn ceremony should be performed at our lady's church at Chartres, for that the city of Rheims, where for the most part the king of France had wont evermore to be crowned, still persisted in her rebellion, and banded herself with the king's enemies.  
All things being in a readiness for the solemnisation of th●●● 〈◊〉 magnificent coronation, upon the seven and twenty day o● 〈…〉 the King came to the said Church, attended with a great 〈…〉 Prince's, Earls, Lords, and other States of France. And by 〈…〉 some of the twelve Peers as yet held out against the King, and o●her ●ere sick, so that there wanted of the full and competent number to atte●● 〈◊〉, and to dootheyr service as the time than required, the King 〈…〉 others in their stead to make up the whole number, whose names were as followeth.  
Th● 6. peers ecclesiastical. 1 Bishop of Charters. Representing the 1 Archbishop of Rh●mis the first peer Ecclesiast● all. 2 Bishop of Nautes. 2 The Bishop duke of 〈◊〉, 3 Bishop of dign, 3 Bishop 〈…〉, 4 Bishop of Mallefais, 4 Bishop 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉, 5 Bishop of Orleans, 5 Bishop Cou●t of 〈◊〉▪ 6 Bishop Angiers. 6 Bishop● ou● to 〈◊〉. The 6 peers temporal. 7 Prince of Coney, Representing the 7 Duke of Bu●●●●●●▪ 8 County Soyssons, 8 Duke of Nor●●●●●●, 9 Duke Mo●tpensier, 9 Duke of Aqr●●●●●e, 10 Duke of Rays, 10 Count of Th●●ous, 11 Duke of Vantadon, 11 Count of Flanders, 12 Lord of Lupembourg, 12 Count of Champa●●ne.  
The King was crowned by the Bishop of Chartres, who for that day supplied the room of the Archbishop of Rhemis, and enthronized him in his royal and Kingly seat, in such manner and order as the rest of the Kings his predecessors had been accustomed in former times.  
Now began the King's authority to wax great, and to enlarge itself every day more and more, and so far it spread in a short time, after that it was received into the heart of all France: for the 20. of March following, Paris the Metropolitan City of the whole realm, 
Paris kelleth to the 〈◊〉.  which had continued in all kind of rebellious disorder, and that for many years together, omitting no kind of outrage that could be imagined against her natural, and liege sovereigns, their crowns and dignities, by the virtuous and commendable industry of Brissac, was likewise reduced under the King's obedience: who pardoning the inhabitants, so many and so monstrous offences, restored them to their ancient priueligie●, rights, grants, Franchises, and liberties, with the reestablishments of his courts of Parliament, and that in as large and ample manner as they had been at any time endued by any of the kings his predecessors, abrogating all laws, decrees, statutes & ordinances, which had passed in prejudice of them, as appeareth by an Edict bearing date the 28 of March, 1594. So as neither the said inhabitants, nor any of them should from thenceforth be troubled, molested, or disquieted in any manner of sort for their former disobediences, imposing perpetual silence hereof to his attorneys general, and to all other persons whatsoever: commanding withal, all Dukes and Peers of France, all Officers of the Crown, all his Lieutenants and other Magistrates, to cause the same to be proclaimed and published in their several jurisdictions and resorts, with express charge, that the contents of the same should be inviolably kept and observed, to the end that if it were possible, the whole kingdom of France, which for a long time had endured so many calamities, might now at length feel some ease and mitigation of former miseries, and the beaten bark of that distressed state, which had been so dangerously tossed in a vast Ocean of all kind of affliction, might in the end be brought to some desired haven of peace and quietness, and there be safely harboured, to the eternal glory of God, the perpetual honour of the King, and the continual joy and comfort of the whole Commonwealth.   
FINIS.   

LONDON Printed by Thomas Creed. 1597.