TO THE RIGHT Worshipful Sir Henry Brooke Cobham Knight.  
RIght Worshipful, forasmuch as the history of Guicchiardine hath won sufficient credit in men's opinions to countenance itself against the envious: I hope my boldness may much the better be excused, presuming to publish in print this treatise containing all the notable and material things in that History: whosoever he was that hath bestowed his travail to reduce so great a volume into so small and necessary a Book (though his name be suppressed) he may merit, no doubt, his due commendation: I thought it a necessary office for me to make show of my good disposition, in due consideration towards you whom I have known of a long time to be exercised in foreign affairs, and employed in matters of some weight for her majesties service and the estate: Having thereon addicted myself to think you meet to receive this little Book into your protection, which most affectionately I recommend unto you, with my prayers unto the eternal God for your worship's health and long life.  
From my house in the new rents in Saint Nicholas shambles, this seventh of December. 1591. Your Worship's most humbly at command, T. P.   

A brief collection or Epitome of all the notable and material things contained in the history of Guicchiardine: being very necessary for Parliament, council, treatises, and negotiations.  

Lodovike Sforce, tutor and uncle to john Galeas, duke of Milan, fearing lest Ferdinand king of Naples should make war upon him, departed from the league lately made between him, the king, & the Florentines against the Venetians: and closely procureth Charles the viii. king of France to come to Italy to conquer the kingdom of Naples, as due to the house of Anjou: for that Pope Urbin the fourth, gave Naples and Cicill, being the old fee of the Church, unto Charles Earl of Province, and Anjou, brother unto Saint Lewis.  
Ferdinand was very secure, as commonly men are in their worst destiny, knowing his strength both by sea and land, and knowing withal that there was no great matter in his enemy: but he remembered not the weakness and partialities in Italy, and that France was not since Charlemans' time so great in circuit, nor flourishing in soldiers. Howbeit he treated with Lodouike for amity (who secretly promised him) meaning nothing less, and with Alexander the sixth (lately chosen Pope by open simony, and by the means of Cardinal Ascanio Sforce, in despite of the Cardinal of Saint Peter's ad Vincula) who before was secretly confederated with Lodouike, and yet promised Ferdinand that he would defend Naples, and Ferdinand should defend the Church.  
Ferdinand further made peace with Maximilian king of Romans, lately chosen Emperor: Lodouike on the other side, to win the Emperor from him, gave in marriage to the Emperor Marie Blanch sister of john Galeas, with promise of four hundred thousand ducats, whereupon the Emperor more esteeming the money, than his new brother in law, gave the investiture of the duchy of Milan unto Lodouike: pretending that since the death of Philip Viscont Mary there had been no lawful duke thereof.  
The French king hereupon sent Peron de la Bascha, ambassador to the Pope, the Florentines, and the Venetians: where albeit he received only comforts in generality, (for that the wars were put off till the next year) yet Ferdinand seeing all things now like to come to nought, fell into pensiveness, and so into an Apoplexy, & died, whose son Alfonso succeeded, and entered league with Pope Alexander, as his father did. But discovering the treacheries of Lodouike, he sent away his ambassador, he sequestered the revenues of the duchy of Barrie, and by all means endeavoured also to alienate from him the city of Geane: yea (that which the devil himself would scarcely have done) he sent to the Turk Bajazet Ottoman, assuring him that Charles the French king after the conquest of Italy, had a meaning to set upon Greece, and therefore he should help in this common case. He sent his nephew forthwith to surprise Geane: but Lois duke of Orleans prevented him.  
Now began Italy to think of her weakness, & the Pope commanded the king not to enter: Peter de Medici's and the Florentines (who were ever French heretofore) declared themselves against the king: the Venetians were content to stand neuter. Lodouike upon better advice, began to fear that the conquering Naples, would also swallow up Milan, and therefore began now to cast how to make an accord as soon as the king were passed the Alps: hoping to make Alphonso tributary to France, and thereby to assure his own estate. Now began prodigious sights to be seen: as in Puglia, three Suns environed with clouds, and horrible thundering. In Arezzo armies of men and horses, in the air, with drums and trumpets, and diverse Images sweeting.  
The Colonoys join with the French, Lodouike accompanieth them, Peter de Medici's becometh his friend, and the Pisans, the Pope, the Venetians, and Lodouike in greater fear than ever tofore: for that Charles passed like a thunder through Italy, with great success. Charles entereth Rome, kisseth the Pope's feet, and joineth with him in league defensive: the Cardinal of Valence, son to the Pope, is appointed three months to follow the king toward Naples.  
The Neapolitans show that they neither loved Ferdinand the father, nor Alfonso the son, which brought him in great perplexity, and so much the more, for that the spirit of Ferdinand (as it was thought) appeared to his chief surgeon, willing him to tell Alfonso, that it was in vain for him to resist the French king, it was determined their race should fail in respect of diverse their great sins, and especially for the thing that they resolved in Saint leonard's Church in Chiaie, which was to put a number of the novilitie to death. Hereupon Alfonso tormented in conscience, privily stole away into Sicilia, with four galleys, whereby the French king with great ease got this noble kingdom: as the Roman who said, Veni, vidi, vici. Howbeit, Ferdinand son of Alfonso took on him the title of the king, and defence of the kingdom. But within short space he was driven to fly into Iskia.  
At this time the noble captain jean jaques de Trinulce of Capua. gave himself to the king, and offered to bring Ferdinand to some good composition: whereof the king willingly accepted: so that he would forego Naples, in respect whereof, he offered to give him other estates in France. This was the fruit of discord and ambition in the many little estates of Italy, whereof none was able to defend itself severally, and jointly might have done greater things.   

The second Book.  
THe Pisans desire to cast off the yoke of the Florentines, and submit themselves to the French: the Florentines prepare to war upon them, and in the mean time fall at difference among themselves for the form of their own government: touching the which Soderin and Vespucci made two excellent Orations, one for Democraty, the other for aristocraty, the which had prevailed, had not the authority of Friar Savinorola carried it away, who like a Prophet in the midst of their quietness foretold them all the miseries of Italy by strangers to come.  
The Pope is suspected to have poisoned Gemin Ottoman, being corrupted thereunto by the Turk, for fear he should aid the French king against him, after his conquest of Italy, Lodouike Sforce and the Venetians, seeing the incredible success of king Charles, feared now bondage to themselves, and began to league together, bringing thereunto the Pope, the king of Romans, and the king of Spain. The Florentines were also dealt withal, but what for fear, and what for loathness to lose the traffic of France they held back.  
Notwithstanding that the king heard of this league, yet he caused himself to be crowned before he would departed from Naples, and treated very earnest amity with the Pope, who made to him fair semblant and promise, and yet he so little trusted the king, that at his return from Naples by Rome, the Pope forsook Rome, and went secretly to Orbieta, and from thence to Perugia, and so to Ancona, to have commodity of the sea, if need should require. The king in the mean time passed by Sienna, and Pisa, and the confederates had a meaning to stop his passage into France: but their hearts failed them at the first. After assembling an army near the river Taro, under the conduct of the marquis of Mantua, they fought a long battle, where the bastard of Bourbon was slain, and the king almost taken prisoner, had he not been well horsed: and yet in the end the Frenchmen had the honour of the field, at which time it was noted that the soldiers of Lodouike would not fight, as though he had been in as much danger of the Venetians, as of the Frenchmens victory.  
The insolent government of the Frenchmen (who can better win then keep) became odious, and consequently Ferdinand in hope to recover Naples. But at the first encounter, his horse was slain under him, and himself had been undoubtedly slain, had not an old page of his, brother to the duke of Termini, horsed him upon his own horse, and suffered himself to be slain for him, a rare example in our time. Within a while after the Neapolitans of themselves received Ferdinand, and the Frenchmen retire to the Castle.  
Novaria and other places are besieged by the king, and the Bailie of Divion, who being willed by the king to send for ten thousand Switchers, there came twenty thousand at the composition of Novaria: and a peace beginginneth to be treated between the king and Lodouike: touching the which, Monsieur de la Tremoville, and the prince of Orange, made two contrary Orations, and the duke of Orleans gainsaid the peace so earnestly, that he gave the prince of Orange the lie. Howbeit the king and the greater part being inclined to peace, and desirous to return into France, the king departed suddenly to Thurin, for that the Swissers murmured, threatening to take him prisoner for lack of pay: for that Lewis the eleventh, was wont ever to pay them for three months: whereunto the king was feign to yield, though he were escaped himself out of their dangers, for that they had taken prisoners the Bailie of Divion, and other Captains. At the time that the Frenchmen held Naples, the horrible disease of the pocks, a thing then uncurable, began in most pitiful ulcers and cankers.   

The third Book.  
THis unwise and sudden return of king Charles, put all Italy in hope to be at rest from any more such plagues, and among the rest Lodouike thinking that he had so far offended the king, as it was but folly to keep that peace, which he never meant further than for the holding of Novaria, and for his own safety, searched forthwith some honest colour to slip from the king, and to set some other states at odds with him, which he did with such success, that he termed himself, The son of Fortune. And yet within a while after, hearing of the kings full resolution to return again into Italy, he was marvelously perplexed, insomuch that once again he practised capitulations with the king: wherein he would have accorded every article, saving that they could never trust one another by reason of the great injuries secretly passed and yet certainly known.  
Ferdinand in the mean time with all diligence bestirreth himself, taketh Nuceria, treateth with the Venetians, who accept of his friendship (and take Pisa into protection) joineth with the Marquis of Mantua, and fought with Mont Pensier, and his Switchers at Nuceria, and by reason of the slackness of king Charles, who neither kept appointment in coming himself, nor sending succours, prevailed greatly in the kingdom of Naples. But alas so destiny would, he died in the midst of his hope and glory without children (according to the vision) being the first king of that Realm, within three years: whom his uncle Don Frederick succeeded.  
Lodouike seeing the French kings return into Italy begin to wax cold, he became very jolly, and thinking to serve his turn with the king of Romans, as he had done by the king of France, that is to say, to terrify the great estates, and in the mean time to gain the smaller, he persuaded with six hundred thousand ducats Maximilian to come into Italy. Maximilian on the other side meant as subtly, as he secretly, purposing to win the kingdom of Naples for john heir to the king of Spain, his son in law: which Lodouike perceiving, was sore astonished, and yet in the end won him to Frederick.  
The Venetians became now jealous of Maximilian, and Lodouike, and therefore sent Hannibal Bentivole to Pisa, and so much the rather, for that they being troubled by Peter of Medici's, and otherwise, and forsaken in their need by the Frenchmen, were dealt withal by Lodouike, to submit themselves to Maximilian.  
The Pope thinking himself now to have opportunity to occupy the estates of the Vrsins, the chief of them being detained at Naples, declared Virginio, and the rest rebels, for taking sold of the French, and so joining with the Colonoys, assailed them on all sides, to the displeasure of the Venetians, who meant to gain that family: but that in these dangerous times, opportunity served not to fall out with the Pope. Lodouike albeit that he professed himself altogether to the Venetians, extolling john Galeas, the first duke of Milan, who made them executors of his testament, and acknowledging that to their great charge they had defended his estate: yet his teeth so watered at Pisa, which they had gotten, that he caused the Pope & the Emperor to persuade, that it was necessary to restore Pisa, to Florence, for fear of giving cause of the French kings return: thinking upon the restitution to get it himself: but the Venetian ambassador impugned it with greater reasons.  
At this time Aluiano assisted by the Guelphs, sacked the houses of the Gibellins, and slew Liii. of the chief in the Pope's territory, who nothing helped the matter: but see the plague of God, his younger son the Cardinal of Valence slew his elder brother duke of Candie, as he road alone one night in the city of Rome, for that he thought him to have greater favour of their sister Lucrece than himself: in whom as it is thought, the father had as good part as either of them both.  
The French king made peace with Spain & the Switchers, & meant to return into Italy: but pleasures, and the Cardinal of S. Malo detained him. In the mean time he dieth, and Lewis the xii. duke of Orleans succeed. At the same time Savinorola was by the Pope put to death.   

The fourth Book.  
LEwes the twelfth entitled himself king of Jerusalem, Naples, and Sicill, and duke of Milan, intending to conquer the dukedom. Lodouike Sforce being yet more jealous of the Venetians, then of him, aideth the Florentines to recover Pisa: the Pope on the other side secretly bend to favour the French king, thinking thereby unawares of the rest to gain many things, and in the end the kingdom of Naples, practising in the mean time with Frederick, to marry his daughter to his son the Cardinal of Valence, wherein Lodouike also played a part, showing him what a strengthening it should be to him, and what a weakening to the French king: but Frederick trusting neither of both, utterly refused, which bred much trouble and practise.  
The Florentines offer accord to the Venetians, but it will not be received: For still they defend Pisa. The Cardinal of Valence before the Pope and his Cardinals, renounceth his Cardinal's hat: and prepareth to go into France, where he was from Cardinal of Valence made duke of Valence, a city in Daulphinoys by the French king, for that the Pope had promised him to divorce the French Queen for sterility, which he performed. Having this new soldier, the king made peace with all his neighbours, and bendeth towards Italy, and requireth Pisa to be left in his hands. The Venetians are in great doubt, whether they may join with the king, or no. Grimanni and Trevisan make excellent orations to that purpose: in the end they join, and that in such a secret and strait league, as Lodouike could not sound in a great while after: but when he understood it, he was greatly astonished at it, and to draw the Venetians again from the French, he practised a reconcilement between the Florentines & them. In the end neither they nor the Pope, nor the Swissers, nor Maximilian, (who he thought would never have joined league without comprehending him) would secure him: but all failed him in the midst of his coming. Then he bent himself to the fortifying of his own, but putting such governors in trust, as had more favour than virtue (a common fault in princes) he lost one town after another, and was driven to forsake Milan himself, and to fortify the castle: but the Town within yielded to the French, which news being brought to the king at Lions, himself passed the mounts in person, and came to Milan, where he compounded with all the states of Italy, except Frederick. In this mean space the new duke Valentinois, who troubled Romagna, and the vicar's thereof, joined with the French. And Bajazet Ottoman assailed such places as the Venetians held in Greece, and with six hundred horse peeled the country of Friuly. And after him the duke Valentinoy took the Country, and a most valiant lady of the place prisoner, and fearing her value, sent her prisoner to Rome. The French king after the taking of the Duchy of Milan, and that he had made truce with the king of Romans, he returned into France, leaving sufficient force in Italy, making the cardinal of Amboyse his lieutenant, and Monsieur Tremoville, Captain. Lodouike immediately recovered Como, and the Gibellins thereupon in Milan revolted from the French (and Trinulcio and the Frenchmen secretly stole away) he took also Vigenene and Novaria, but there was he betrayed by the Swissers: & yet were they contented that he and his brothers Galeas de S. Severin lafoy fracase, & Antony Maria should steal away in the habit of Swissers: but they were all descried, and he carried away into France, and the cardinal Ascagnio who scaped, was delivered to the king by the Venetians, contrary to the old dignity of that state. Lodouike was brought to Lions, whom the king would not vouchsafe to fee, notwithstanding his late greatness and excellent wit: but was committed there to close prison, where after ten years he miserably ended his life. The Cardinal Ascagnio was imprisoned in the great tower at Bordeaux, where the king himself that sent him thither, was himself prisoner two years.   

The fift Book.  
THis conquest of Milan by the French, made Maximilian bethink himself what a shame it was to him to lose such a fee of the Empire, and to suffer Lodouike thus to be carried away, who had put himself into his protection, whereupon he declared himself against the French king, and the Venetians, persuading the electors and states of Germany in time to resist their ambition and violence.  
The French king proceedeth further to secure the Florentines against Pisa, taketh Bolognia into his protection, and putteth garrison into Pietre Sancte: but findeth such evil success in his forces against Pisa, that he greatly stormeth at it, and offereth further power, which the Florentines in despair refuse: finally, though he were angry with the Pope, in that he failed him at Milan: yet by the working of the duke Valentinois, Caesar Borgeas, he now accordeth with him.  
The duke in the mean time taketh Pesara and Rimini, and besiegeth Faventia: but was so mightily resisted by the inhabitants, not enured to war, that considering his forces and excellent captains, he was almost mad, and swore the next spring, either to win, or to die.  
The French king by means of the Archduke (for whose young son Charles being then but three years old, he offered his daughter claud of the same age) made a truce with Maximilian, who most dishonourably made no mention of the king of Naples: notwithstanding that he had received forty thousand ducats, and a bond for a pension to that end.  
The French king thus being sure of the Germans, and making no doubt to obtain the investiture of Milan, by the help of the Archduke, turned all his thoughts unto Naples, and fearing least the kings of Spain should oppose themselves, and that the Pope and the Venetians should be jealous of his greatness, he now began to think it the surest way to divide it with Ferdinand king of Spain, who also pretended a certain right to it: so that the one not to be hindered in the whole, the other to have part of that he had long desired, they resolved at one time to set upon it. The French king having Naples, Terra de lavaro, and Abruzzo, the Spanish king Puglia, and Calabria, but this should be kept secret until such time as the French army were come to Rome.  
The duke Valentinoy besiegeth again Faventia, & so forceth it that they yield upon condition that their young duke Astor, a fair prince of xviii. years, might enjoy his liberty and revenue: but this incarnate devil sent him to Rome, where after he had been abused by a worse devil than himself, in such sort as may not be expressed, he and a bastard brother of his were secretly murdered. The duke passeth on and plagueth Florence, and from thence to Bolognia: but there the French king commandeth him to stay, for that he had taken the Bentivols & that state into his protection. He than returneth to Floremce, & there falleth to capitulation, after surprising certain places of the lord of Plombin, he returneth to Rome, and joineth with the French king.  
Frederick being thus assailed by these two mighty kings, being more inwardly angry with the king of Spain his friend, then with the French king his enemy capitulated with the French, and went himself into France, where he had the dukedom of Anjou, and thirty thousand ducats pension. At the same time Gonsaluo for the Spanish king took Calabria, and Ferdinand's eldest son by composition: and contrary to his oath sent him into Spain.  
The French king finding his prosperity to be envied of the Venetians, desired to keep league with Maximilian, and to war upon them: but the disagreeing of the French and Spanish captains in the kingdom of Naples, (for that the borders were not well abutted in the division) diverted the French king to the Spanish wars: where finding himself the stronger, he protested war against Gonsaluo, if forthwith he gave not up his Captainship, and to that end sent two thousand Swissers, and entertained the princes of Salern, and Bisignan.  
The duke Valentinois taketh Urbin and after Camerin, and repaireth to the king, who was come to Urbin, and so to Ast, where finding great grace, he put all the states of Italy in great fear, insomuch that secretly diverse of them were driven to confederate against him. In the which mean space Gindobaldo duke of Urbin, by a secret train of the inhabitants recovered his estate, and yet within a while after is driven to fly to Venice.  
The Pope and his son plagued the family of the Vrsins, the Pope poisoned the Cardinal Vrsin, his son strangled Paul Vrsin.  
The French prosperity began now to decline in Naples, aswell by their negligence and insolency, as by the war: wherein Monsieur de la Palisse, and diverse others were taken prisoners. At the length certain brags in words falling out on both sides, it was agreed that there should be a combat of thirteen Italians against thirteen Frenchmen, in which fight Albemount an Italian being first overthrown, and after him Miale, with their sword they killed the horses of the Frenchmen, and so took them all prisoners saving one: who was slain after he had overthrown Albemount.  
After this the Frenchmens hearts failed, and peace grew to be treated: which not withstanding Gonsaluo made still war, taking no knowledge thereof, and took prisoner Monsieur de Aubigny in the same place, wherewith in few years before, he discomfited Gonsaluo, and the forces of Ferdinand, being a most excellent captain, after that at Cirignole he gave the French an other overthrow, where Monsieur de Nemours was slain: finally he passed through Melfe, and took Naples.   

The sixth Book.  
LEwis the French king hearing of the loss of Naples, of his armies and captains, when he least thought of war: complained himself highly to the Archduke, thinking that whiles he treated peace with his father in law the king of Spain, to be revenged: the king & Queen of Spain on the other side drew the treatise long, both to appoint themselves, and to disappoint the French king: in the end being sore pressed by the Archduke, they began to quarrel with the Archduke himself, saying that he passed both his instructions and commission, in making such a dishonourable peace as they never meant to make, and much less to keep: whereupon the French king prepareth to assail Naples both by sea and land. But in the mean time Gonsaluo taketh the castle of Naples, and besiegeth Caiette.  
Even as fortune began to fail the Frenchmen, so did the Pope & his son, gathering by his dealings with them of Bolognia & Tuscan, that there was no farther good to be done by him. And therefore being required to declare themselves for him, they answered in dark ambiguities like Apollo's oracles, for the father never did as he said, nor the son never said that which he did. In the end upon much treaty, the Pope was content the French army should pass through the territories of the Church, and that he would not meddle with the Florentines, Sienois, nor Bolognians, during the wars, which the French king nothing believed, if fortune frowned. But see the end of this Pope, as he went to sup in a certain Vineyard near the Vatican, with Adrian, Cardinal of Cornetta, he was suddenly brought forth dead, being all black blown, and hideous to look on: his son also was brought forth for dead, who having brought two flagons of empoisoned wine, to poison the poor cardinal, by god's judgement poisoned his father, & himself, & yet using forthwith counterpoisons, knowing the bait, he saved his life: but lay long sick, which quailed all his devices, especially in choosing the Pope, which was Pius 3. too good a man to live long in that place: so that he dying within a few months, julius the second was chosen.  
In the mean time the duke Valentinois is coursed by the Vrsins, driven to reconcile himself to the Colonois, constrained to fly into the castle saint Angelo. Cesena and other places revolt from him to the Church again: the Venetians are also in hope hereby to get Romagna, and soon after they take Faventia, whereof the Pope much complaineth. And in the mean time arresteth the duke Valentinois, and imprisoneth him in the Vatican. Thus his power that suddenly grew great by cruelty, deceit, and the Church, came as suddenly to nothing again.  
The French king maketh wars toward Spain with small profit, whereupon for those parts a truce is taken, & all the bent is to Naples. Aluiano and diverse Vrsins join with Gonsaluo, which greatly encourageth him. The Frenchmen are repulsed at Garillani, in some disorder, & return to Caiette, which after Gonsaluo taketh partly by force, partly by composition, and after is called by no other name, but the great captain.  
At this time was there a peace made between the Venetians, and Bajazet Ottoman, who unlike to his father, was given to study and learning. At this time also the Portugese's did make their marvelous navigation of East Indies, passing the equinoctial, leasing the use of the north-wind and Loadsrone, bringing great spiceries and other riches: but the navigation of Spaniards under Christophoro Colombo a Geneuois, was far more marvelous, who sailing thirty days westward, discovered certain Isles never known before: and after both he and Vespuccius passing further, found firm land, and diverse civil nations, not having the use of arms, but much gold and silver. etc.  
The duke Valentinoy about this time escaped out of prison to Naples, where Gonsaluo taketh him, and sendeth him captive into Spain, and a truce is taken between the kings of France and Spain. Frederick being out of hope of recovering his kingdom of Naples, died, and after him Queen Elizabeth of Spain: whereupon some differences were like to arise between the Archduke and the Spanish king, for the government of Castilia.  
About this time it may not be forgotten, that Cardinal Hippolyta of Esca, being in love with a young damosel his kinswoman (who made more account of his bastard brother) asked her what was the cause why she so greatly loved a bastard, and she answered his sweet and amiable eyes: whereupon one day as he rid on hunting, he caused his brother to dismount, and commanded his footmen in his presence to pluck out his eyes, saying he liked no such companions in love.   

The seventh Book.  
Philip the archduke began to entitle himself king of Castille, not being content that his father in law should govern, having no better interest than the appointment of his wife when she lay in extremity. And the king of Romans being heartened with the greatness of his son, purposeth to enter into Italy. The French king having them all in jealousy (though he were very angry with the Pope, for usurping upon the spiritual livings in Milan) yet lest he should stand alone, he treateth with the Pope, making quarrel to Venice, for that he knew it a thing acceptable to him.  
Philip prepareth by sea to invade Spain, and is by storm driven into England, where he is honourably received by Henry the seventh, and newly furnished for his voyage, upon condition that he should deliver the duke of Suffolk whom he had prisoner in the castle of Namures. Philip yieldeth, and requireth that he might not be put to death, though he pretended right to the crown, whereunto king Henry the seventh condescended, but Henry the eight afterward struck off his head. Philip goeth forward, and by capitulation obtaineth the kingdom of Castille, but dieth within a while after.  
The French king is desirous to be revenged upon Venice: but first marrieth his daughter Madame claud unto Francis of Angolesme afterward king. The Emperor treateth with the Venetians to pass through their territories to be crowned at Rome. The Pope enterprised the recovery of Bolognia under the conduct of the Marques of Mantua, the Bolognians require aid of the French king, according to their protection: but in fine the poor Bentivoles in stead of a protection had a fair safe conduct of Monsieur Chaumont, for which they paid dearly, and lost the state to the Church.  
The Genevoys rebel against the French king, and fell also at civil discord, the Gibelines favouring the Adorns, and the Guelphs the Fregoses, every man desiring to bring the government to his friends, Monsieur de Chaumont setteth upon them, and maketh them yield the town to the discretion of the king, who there entered in person, and pardoned all, saving threescore.  
Ferdinand king of Arragon, and the French king, appointed a meeting at Savona, and there they put themselves one in another's power, as though there never had been enmity between them. Where supping together, none but the two kings and the Queen, the French king would needs have Gonsaluo make the fourth, being in admiration of his fame, his person, his majesty in gesture and speech. After this time this great Captain had never great occasion to exercise his virtue. The end of their great conference was, that they two and the Emperor should join against the Venetians.  
The Emperor on the other side held a decree at Constance, for the encountering of the French king in Italy, and to that end treated with the Pope, professing himself a protector of the Church, and an enemy of the French usurpation in Italy, who meaned (quoth he) to make the Cardinal of Amboyse Pope, and himself Emperor.  
This troubled the king, who was sure neither of the Pope, nor of the Venetians: and the Venetians were much perplexed, whether they should join with the king, or the Emperor: to which points Foskarin and Gritti made excellent orations. In fine they answered the Ambassador of the Emperor who demanded passage, that if he came armed, he should have no passage: if otherwise they should do him all honour possible. He marcheth on notwithstanding, and gaineth something: but for want of good resolution looseth again.   

The eight Book.  
NOw do the Emperor and the Venetians fall to treatise of league, which maketh all Italy more afraid than ever before, which had been already greatly tormented by the ambition of princes: and specially by the Venetians, who made their profit of every peace, and every war, and even in this league with Caesar, they demeaned themselves so cunningly, that they now gave cause both to the Emperor and the French king, to join together against them, whereupon the Pope failed not to encourage them, insomuch that for the Emperor Madame Marguiret his daughter, governess of Flanders, for the French king, the Cardinal of Amboyse, and for Spain. The Ambassador swore this league at Cambray. The Venetians mistrusting false measure, had their ambassador there also to await what was done, but the Cardinal swore so many oaths, that the French king his master would keep his league with Venice, and that his meeting was to make peace between the Archduke, and the duke of gelders, that he made him and the Venetians very secure.  
This league was held very secret, but the Pope taking the advantage thereof, demanded of them Rimini, and Faventia, which they had taken from the Church, uttering that whereas the greatest princes in Christendom were joined against them, he would also join, if they denied him his demand. The Senate was deeply amazed, and divided in opinion touching the restitution, and in fine were resolved to restore, had not Trevisan, a man of high estate next the duke, most earnestly dissuaded them, which they repent: for the Pope ratified the treatise of Cambray, and so all Christendom in effect armed against them. And besides that they had these evil signs and presages, a ship of theirs was drowned with ten thousand ducats. The Castle of Bresse was stricken with thunder, their tower of records suddenly fell down, their Arsenal was burnt, twelve galleys, their salt peter, powder, and munition was consumed.  
The French king accompanied with the duke of Lorraine and nobility of France passed the Alps, and sent Monsieur de Chaumont afore to set upon them. The Pope published a bull against them.  
The French army overthroweth their battle at Gniaradadde, taketh prisoner their chief Captain Bartholomeo Aluiano, who was wounded in the eye, as for the other Captain, the County Petylian, he stirred not, nor would adventure all upon one day, the which if he had done, it is thought he had overcome: and yet his not venturing was not misliked.  
These news astonished almost unto desperation the Venetians: and yet that noble and grave state, neither fell to dissension among themselves, nor spoke so much as a word of reproach one to another, touching their counsels, that caused this success: which was somuch the more lamentable, for that all the countries subject unto them, in this their misery began to sorsake them, in short, they thought it the only way to try by submission and entreaty, to divide either the Pope or the Emperor from the French king, of whom they despaired. The Pope gave small comfort, and the Emperor less, without the French kings consent.  
Thus the one of them gained on the one side, and the other on the other side, and the Venetians are driven to utter extremity: now the states of Italy, and especially the Pope, seeing the imminent dangers over their own heads, began now to think what a fair thread they had spun, if the fall and ruin of Venice did bring into Italy two such mighty princes on their necks: wherefore he giveth audience to their six Ambassadors that most heavily and woefully demanded pardon: giving the Ambassadors of the confederates to understand, that the Church ought not to shut her bosom to such as return. Now began Trevisan to stand to them, and shortly after they recover Padua from the Emperor, they take the Marquis of Mantua prisoner.  
Shortly after the French king making a league defensive with the Pope, returneth into France. The Emperor bendeth all his forces to recover Padua: the Venetians for the defence thereof, send all the young noble and gentlemen's sons: with which policy the people took such comfort, that beyond expectation they so defend themselves, that the siege is raised, and the Emperor returneth into Allemaigne, with little profit.  
The Cardinal of Amboyse hoping thereby in time to be Pope, reconcileth the Emperor and the catholic king, wherein he did his master small service. The County Petilian dieth: the Pope absolveth the Venetians.   

The ninth Book.  
The Pope not only absolveth the Venetians, but doth as it were take them into protection, intending to reconcile them to the Emperor, and to set him against the French king, and finally to drive the Frenchmen out of Italy: but the Emperor would not hear of it without Verona were yielded unto him, whereupon the Pope practiseth with the Swissers by the means of the Bishop of Zion, who now were very proud, for that they were so desired of all nations, persuading themselves that all the victories of king Charles and king Lewis came by them, and therefore picked quarrels with the king touching their pensions. The Pope in like sort picked quarrel to the duke of Ferrara for his dependency on the French, being so much benefited and honoured by him. The Emperor & the French king on the other side smelling his drift, to touch as well the interest of the one, as the other of them, knit themselves again fast against Venice. And Monsieur de Chaumont for the king, and the prince of Henault for the Emperor joining together, drove back the Venetian army, and approaching to Vincentia, the Vincentines being destitute of help, sent an Ambassador to them, who made a very pitiful oration, the which the prince of Henault answered with great vigour like a barbarous Dutchman. In fine they yielded at their discretion, and Monsieur Chaumont treated for them, telling the prince of Henault that he ought to have more regard to the greatness and glory of Caesar, then to the fault of the poor miserable men, who depended on others, greater than themselves.  
After this were taken Legnague, Montsilice and other places, & Monsieur de Chaumont was commanded to return to Milan, for certain broils there kindled closely by the Pope, at which time dieth the Cardinal of Amboyse, which greatly hindered the french: for that the king being apt to be directed, then to direct, never had the like confidence in any man. After his death, the Pope flatly requireth the king to give over his protection of Ferrara, the king answereth that he cannot do it with his honour, and so stomach groweth between them. The Pope in the mean time eggeth on the Swissers, who being angry that the king would not increase their pensions, were ready enough and descended toward Milan. The Venetians in the mean time, while Monsieur de Chaumont was there occupied, recovered most part of their towns, & besieged Verona: the marquis of Mantua scaped out of prison at Venice by the secret means of Bajazet the great Turk, who had before showed many friendly parts to the Marquis.  
The Pope purposeth to set upon Geane, and many other things that took no effect: the king on the other side, to anger him, meaneth to defend the duke of Ferrara, and still to continue friendship with the Emperor, so that the Pope was driven to leave his thoughts of getting other men's, and to think upon defending his own: for within a while after he was besieged by Monsieur de Chaumont in Bolognia: but after a while he was content upon great occasions to leave the siege, which done, the Pope complained himself to all prince's Christian of the French king.  
The Pope ceaseth not thus, but falleth to wars still, besiegeth Mirandola, is there present in person, no less busy in body then in mind, riding and going to and fro like a captain, and in the end winneth it: whereat the French king is so angry, that he sendeth instructions to Monsieur de Chaumont, not only to defend Ferrara: but also by all means to plague the territories of the Church: the Pope in the mean time is content that Modena should be yielded to the Imperial, for fear it should fall into the hands of the French. And the noble captain Monsieur de Chaumont dieth, and Trinulce is made a Marshal of France, and Caesar contrary to his treatise with the French king, is content to hearken to peace.  
After the death of Monsieur de Chaumont, Gaston de Foix, a valiant young Gentleman, and the king's sister's son began to have charge.  
The Pope partly to gain the favour of princes, partly to be the stronger in the council that was threatened, made eight Cardinals at a clap, and among the rest, the Archbishop of York, thereby to gain the king of England, and the Bishop of Zion, by him to gain the Swissers.  
Now began a general peace to be treated at Venice by the Bishop of Gurce: but the Pope broke it off, whereupon the French king commanded Trinulcio to march on, who took Concordia, and after Castelfranco and drew towards Bolognia, they falling in great fear, the cardinal of Pavia runneth away. The Bentivoles return, the pope's army flieth, the Pope fretteth, the Cardinal of Pavia draweth toward Ravenna to the Pope, and the duke of Urbin hating him deadly, by the way drew his dagger, and in the midst of his guard slew him. After this the Emperor and the French king do publish a council to be holden at Pisa: the luck whereof the Pope liked not, for that Popes had been there deposed at counsels holden in former times.   

The tenth Book.  
ALl Christendom, and especially all Italy stood at the gaze, to see what the French king would do after these victories: for now it lay in his power (as it seemed) to take Rome, and all the states of the Church: but he moved either with devotion or fear to bring all princes in his neck, commanded Trinulcio to leave Bolognia to the Bentivoles, and to restore the rest to the Church, and so to retire to Milan.  
The Pope now to break the neck of the Pisan Council, summoned by the Emperor and the French king, spoke his Cardinal's fair, for that five of them had given consent to Pisa, and winning back some of them by fair promises, published an universal Council to be holden at Rome, and began to incline to a peace with the French king: but the Emperor dealt with the French king on the other side, to help him against the Pope, and the Venetians: but what for his poverty and inconstancy, the French king had no great devotion thereunto: the emperor notwithstanding adventureth, and is foiled with his French succours by the Venetians: and yet after he taketh Friuly, and within short space looseth it again. The pope being newly recovered of a deadly sickness, beginneth to think again of the chase the French out of Italy: the French king on the other side gins to be weary of fight against the Church: the Pope leagueth himself with the Venetians, and the Catholic king, to deliver Italy of strangers, as he pretended.  
The time of the Council of Pisa drawing on, and many French Cardinals and captains being there, by chance there fell out such a fray among the soldiers and servants, in parting whereof, Monsieur de Chastillian, and Monsieur de Lautrech were wounded, that the Council was adjourned to Milan, where they found more difficulties: for all the Clergy abstained from divine service, as though profane and execrable persons, and not Cardinals had entered. This made the French king suspect the Emperor, and cry out of the Catholic king, who did all contrary to the league at Cambray: and therefore meaning to deal as falsely as the best, he now resolved to set upon Romagna, but in great doubt of the Swissers, who sent defiance by a trumpeter unto Gaston de Foix his lieutenant in Milan, the king sendeth great aid out of France, and demandeth help of Florence, which is not answered to his expectation, by reason of diversity of opinions. And that which was worse, knoweth they had herein displeased the king, they sent Guicchiardine the writer of this history Ambassador to the king of Arragon, who shortly after joined with the Pope against Bolognia, but Monsieur de Foix came with succours, and caused the army to retire, and after that he wan Brescia from the Venetians, and sacked it.  
In the midst of this good luck, the French king suddenly was appalled: for that he heard that the king of England meant to war upon him, receiving some ships out of Spain to that purpose. Nevertheless Monsieur de Foix goeth on valiantly to Ravenna, to fight with the confederates where was fought the longest and noblest battle of all others, the Spaniards and Italians striving against the Frenchmen and Almains for the glory of their nation. And albeit in opinion the French seemed to have the better: yet monsieur de Foix not abiding that the Spanish footmen should retire in good order, set on them in great fury, and was slain in the height of his glory. Peter of Navarre taken prisoner, Monsieur de Viuarets slain before the eyes of his father, Monsieur Allegre, and the father not long after the son. The army notwithstanding entereth and sacketh Ravenna: the Pope is afraid of the news, his Cardinals persuade him to peace, but the king of Arragon to continue, the wars. julio de Medici a knight of the Rhodes, afterward Pope, recomforteth him also in such sort, that he resolveth rather to forsake Rome, then to make peace, and so much the rather, for that monsieur de la Palissie was departed out of Romagna.  
The Swissers in the mean time pass the Alps by Trent, with leave of the Emperor towards Milan, and there joineth with the Venetian army, Cremona yieldeth unto them, and Bergamo, and approaching to Milan, Triwlcio having no hope to defend it for want of succour, secretly stole away into Piedmont. Parma, Placentia, Bolognia, and almost all Romagna, return to the Pope, and Geane revolteth from the French, making Fregose the Captain of the Venetian army their duke, which dignity his father once had before him.   

The eleventh Book.  
THe duke of Ferrara finding himself now every way so weak and hard beset (upon assurance of safe conduct by the means of the ambassador of Arragon, and Fabricio Colonna) came to Rome, and humbled himself to the Pope, as to remain Fendatarie of the Church, the Pope would have the dukedom itself, or nothing: the conditions being so hard, the duke craved pardon, and the benefit of his safe conduct to return home: the Pope denied, and forged other by matters to retain him prisoner: but the Arragon Ambassador, and Fabricio, for that it stood them upon in honour, came suddenly well accompanied the next morning to the gate of Latran, and delivered him in despite of the Pope's guard.  
The French king was driven to let the Swissers for a time take their pleasure of Milan: for that he was advertised that the king of England according to a treatise before holden, had sent six thousand footmen to Fowntaraby, jointly there to assail the duchy of Gwien, and to join with the Emperor, he had no hope, for that the Bishop of Marseilles his Ambassador assured him it was in vain. After this quailing of the French affairs, the Pope, the Emperor, the king of Arragon, the Venetians and Swissers, though they were confedered, had every one their die upon Milan, but the Pope and the Swissers fearing the great princes, dealt earnestly that it might be allotted to Mazimilian the young son of Lodouike Sforce to bring it from the French.  
The viceroy of Naples is sent with an army against Florence, the Florentines receive again the Medici, Prato is taken by the Spaniars. The castle of Geane is taken by the Genevoys, the lantern of Geane still remaineth French: Bressia yieldeth to the Viceroy. Cremonia to the Venetians. The Bishop of Gurce at Rome, treateth for a common peace.  
The fear of the Englishmen at Fowntaraby, and the negligence of the French king in not succouring, caused the king of Navarre, to forsake Navarre and fly to Bearn, among the mount Pyrenes, & without any charge or travail got the kingdom of Navarre to the king of Arragon, except certain fortresses: the King of Arragon for want of title, pretending that the right thereof was given him by the Pope, when he cursed the French King and his adherents. But the French King endeavoureth to reconcile himself both to the King of England and the Swissers: at the least he hopeth to win the Venetians from the league, and so with new forces to recover Milan. A better hope than all this was, that Pope julius the second now died in the midst of his prosperity, and jean Cardinal de Medici was chosen, named Leo the tenth: by which good accident he did the easilier make peace with the Catholic King, and prepared for his purpose: for albeit he could not well compass a peace with the King of England: yet for that the English were not well provided of ready horsed, although their value chief consisted in footmen (yet now by long peace and lack of use being driven to hire Almains) he thought many things might be done before that war came forward: wherefore he sent power to Triwlcio, who joining with Aluiano, Captain of his new confederates the Venetians, he setteth upon the duchy of Milan, and recovereth Geane: and after besiegeth Novara, where being resisted by the Swissers, they retired seven miles of: but the Swissers to the end that no succours or Nation might take the glory from them, like most valiant soldiers having neither horsemen nor artillery, followed Triwlcio, and Monsieur de la Tremoville, and fought a most brave battle with them, gained their artillery, slew their men with it, and put their gendarmery to flight, who beastly demeaned themselves that day: notwithstanding it may not be forgotten, that Robert de la March having his two sons most dangerously beset with Swissers, rushed like a Tiger into the midst of them, and fought so terribly, that he amazed them, and delivered his sons. Aluiano perceiving the discomfiture of the French, retired to Verona and besieged it, but prevailed not. Padua is besieged by the Viceroy, and the young duke of Milan taketh Pontuica, by the help of Antony de Leva: and the Viceroy finding that he could not take Padua, spoileth the Country even almost unto Venice, & within two miles of Vincentia, the Viceroy Prosper Celonna, & the Marquis of Peskara gave a great overthrow to the Venetians, and Aluiano by the cowardice of their footmen of Romaigna. At the length Caesar and the Venetians compromitted their differences to the Pope: and the French king had now nothing left in Italy but the Lantern of Geane, which also was battered by sea, and defended with sacks of wool.   

The twelfth Book.  
THe king of England was now ready both by sea and land to war upon the French king, & had also hired the Emperor Maximilian with six score thousand ducats to enter all at one time into Burgundy, hoping also that his father in law the Catholic king would join with him. The French king bestirred him to resist these great dangers, and some what to appall the courage of the English king, he alured into France the duke of Suffolk as a competitor of the crown, but he being nothing dismayed therewith, in despite struck off the duke's brother's head, whom he held before in prison by the king of Castile's means, as you have heard. The French king farther to trouble him, set james King of Scots the old enemy of England & confederate of France to war on that side the seas upon him. The English King was long in preparing his subjects being out of use, the manner of fight being changed, the use of their bows being almost gone. Nevertheless in july being greatly furnished, his army camped near Bullen, and from thence besieged Terwin: where at the first they answered not the renown of their hardiness, in that they gave no hardy assault: but within a while after, they overthrew three hundred men of arms. The Marquis of Rotelin, called duke of Longuile, Captain Bayard, & Fayette were taken prisoners, and monsieur de la Palisse escaped hardly, wherewith the French king and all France were so amazed, that if the English King had followed this good fortune, it is thought the gap was now open to take all France. Terwin was raised by the advise of the Emperor, for that the Archduke Charles pretended right unto it, and the Emperor departed the camp for that he thought the Englishmen to be rash, and without discipline. King Henry nevertheless passed towards Tornay, and took it, whereof the French were full glad, fearing his coming farther into France with his terrible army of fourscore thousand, which perhaps he had done, if he had had experience, or had been truly advertised of the disposition of France: but he returned into England, assuring the French that he would return the next summer. At this time by chance of fire, the richest part of all Venice was burnt, and the Pope endeth the differences between Caesar and them.  
The league was renewed between the Spanish king and the French king, which greatly displeased the king of England, who said that this was the third time that his father in law had broken promise with him.  
The French king practised with the Pope, and the Pope with the Cardinal of York to reconcile the French and English King, which took place, and the French king marrieth the lady Mary, the king of England's sister. This was unpleasant both to the Emperor and the Spanish King, and not pleasant to the Pope who was the procurer of it, who albeit he loved with such cunning to gain princes: yet he liked not that this league should help the French King again to Milan.  
At this time King Emanuel of Portugal presented the Pope with two monstrous Elephants out of India, and Lewis the xii. dieth, and Francis the first duke of Angolesme succeed, taking the title of the duke of Milan, & making peace with the King of England and the Archduke: he meaneth to recover the dukedom. The Emperor, the King of Arragon, the duke of Milan, the Swissers do league against him: the King of England sendeth him word to Lions, not to pass into Italy to trouble Christendom: the Swissers guard the foot & straits of the Alps against him. But he like an industrious prince, by the counsel of Triwlcio, leaveth the two ordinary ways of Mountsenis, & Mount Genewre, and passeth by extreme toil of pioneers nearer the sea by the Cortian Alps, by the Marquisate of Saluzzo: and being passed before any man thought of him, Monsieur de la Palisse took Colonna a noble Captain prisoner at Villefrance as he sat at dinner, which greatly astonished all Italy, insomuch that the Pope used the duke of Savoy, to excuse him to the King forthwith.  
The King taketh the Countries of Alexandria and Tortona. The Swissers are in diversity of opinions, whether they shall hearken to any league with the French, or farther withstand them. At length the Bishop of Zion with a very persuasive oration encouraged them to join in one opinion against the French, and to fight with them near unto Marignian, where the first day both they and the King fought so long, as they could hold weapon in hand, and departed on both sides, as it were by agreement without sound of trumpet.  
The next day they rashly and furiously set on the French, who kept themselves in good order, and caused Aluiano with his light horsemen to set on their backs, which greatly annoyed them. They fought notwithstanding most valiantly: but yet despairing of victory, for that the Venetian army approached, they sounded the retreat: and albeit the artillery beat them on the backs, yet did they keep their array towards Milan, to the wonder of the French, and all that looked on: especially the King, who often escaped death and danger, and Triwlcio, who said they were Giants and not men, for that he never saw the like battle.  
After this victory all the duchy of Milan returned to the King, except the Castles of Cremona and Milan, and the duke and the King fall to composition, and Aluiano dieth, and the Pope and the King in loving sort talk together at Bolognia, and there renewing a league with the Swissers, he returned into France.  
Ferdinand king of Arragon, and king of Castille, in the right of his wife, the winner of Granado, conqueror of Naples and Navarre, died without heir male, and the great Captain Gonsaluo died one month before, absent from the Court, in disgrace and malcontent.  
The death of the king made the French king in hope to get Naples, thinking that the young Archduke Charles should be too much busied to keep all his estates, but he was distourned from that thought by the coming of the Emperor into Lombardie against him and the Venetians, who summoned Milan, but was feign to recoil, for that by delay he lost all opportunity.  
The Venetians recover Brescia, the Pope maketh his nephew Laurence de Medici duke of Urbin. The King of France and Spain make a peace at Noyan. The Venetians recover Verona.   

The xiii. Book.  
BEsides the peace of Noyon, the Kings of Spain and France, and the Emperor treat a peace at Cambray, and now great quietness was hoped in all Italy, saving that Francisco Maria de la Rovere being followed of many Spaniards, went about to recover such his states as the Pope had taken from him, as Urbin Fane, and others: driving the Pope to complain to the French and Spanish Kings, & enter league with the French, for aid against all subjects and fendataries of the Church.  
The chief Captains of the Spaniards, that followed Francisco Maria, namely Maldonat, and Swears, conspired after certain victories to betray Francisco Maria, and to deliver him up alive to his enemy Laurence de Medici's, which treason Francisco Maria discovering, made such an excellent oration to the Spaniards, that they judged their own Captains worthy to pass the pikes, and so with their own hands slew them.  
At this time Alfonso Cardinal of Sienna, being the Pope's creature, most ungratefully notwithstanding conspired against him: and the Cardinals of Cornette, and Volaterra, confessed on their knees that he had imparted it to them. Alfonso the night following was secretly strangled in prison.  
The Pope finding himself no more gracious among his college of Cardinals, created thirty new Cardinals at a clap, some for learning, some for friendship, and some for money, which now went low with him: and after a few conflicts with the duke of Urbin at Ancona and Anguiare, he falleth to composition by means of Don Hugue de Moncada the Viceroy, to his great charge, which the poor Florentines were driven to defray.  
Italy now being at quiet, the Pope began to treat with Christian princes against Selim the Turk: who seeing his father Baiazat to be old, partly by janissaries, and partly by poison dispatched his elder brother Achomat, and after his younger brother Corcut, and all their race, & as the world supposed, had a meaning to do the like to his own son, the better to strengthen his own dominion for his time, which by his desperate hardness was grown great, having overthrown the mountains Aduliens, & the Sophy of Persia, winning from him his chief city Taurus: and then turned his wars upon the sultan of Soria and Egypt, a most mighty prince of country, & by reason of the warlike discipline of the Mamelukes, & yet never overthrown but by this Selim, who highly disdaining that his victories should not be above Caesar, & Alexander, now meant to bend toward Christendom, and first against Rhodes, & Hungary, being very weak, for that the king was a child, & as some thought toward Italy, but this consult took so small effect, that if God had not soon after taken away Selim, who left Soliman very young: all christendom no doubt had smarted for this ungodly negligence. Now was peace awhile on every side, and the French & the English so far leagued together, that the only daughter of Henry is promised upon condition to the Dolphin of France. This peace which is an enemy to great warriors, maketh Triwlcio now in his old age to be in jealousy with the French king for the Gwelphian faction, Monsieur de Lautreck and other pursue him thoroughly, the king denieth him his countenance: & he dieth for sorrow in disgrace, according as most great captains do.  
The emperor Maximilian being now aged, treated with the electors & Pope, to choose the king of Romans, Charles of Ostrich, king of Spain: the French king thinking him to be too great already, treated earnestly to the contrary, & Maximilian dieth before any thing is done, so that the French and Spanish kings are now most earnest competitors and countersutours for it. The French King spareth neither speech, Ambassadors, persuasions, nor money, and is abused with hope by some of the electors: but in fine Charles of Ostrich is chosen, the which killeth the heart of the French king and his adherents in Italy, and now the kingdom of Naples, the restitution of Navarre unto john, and the money accorded at Nayon, begin for despite to come in question, and into demand.  
At this time the Pope abusing all the world with his indulgences, and by the Bishop of Arembald making a terrible exaction in diverse parts of Germany, to the use of his sister Magdalen, gave occasion to Martin Luther to preach against him, and to renew the doctrine of john Hus, and Jerome of prague. The which was very welcome to the wounded minds of all such as had felt the Pope's abuses, and so much the rather, as that the Pope took no good course to resist it: but persevered still in his enormities.  
This year did Charles the Empeperor arrive in England, not as his father Philip did by necessity, but of friendship, and so passed into Flanders, and to Aix, and there was crowned: in the mean time some broils arose in Spain, which were appeased by his officers.   

The xiiii. Book.  
ITalie had at this time a little repose, but it could not long continue, by reason of the emulation of these two great princes, Charles and Francis, who could not endure the greatness the one of the other, and especially for that pope Leo was horn mad to want Parma and Placentia, gotten by his predecessor pope july, and to see that Ferrara should so long hold out against him, maugre his head: in respect whereof he treated amity with the French King, and hired six thousand Swissers, and in secret they concluded to divide the kingdom of Naples. In the mean time the French king taking the opportunity of stirs in Spain, sent Monsieur Asperrot with a power, & easily without resistance recovered the kingdom of Navarre. And the Swissers refusing the amity of Caesar, joined with the French.  
The Pope notwithstanding his league, contracted with the French king, joineth also in league with the Emperor to defend Florence & the Medici, & to recover Milan to Sforce, and Parma and Placentia to the Church. At that very instant on S. Peter's day at Milan, there fell fire out of the air, which took certain barrels of powder, which overthrew a fair Marble tower, and so shook the castle and city of Milan, as a greater portent never chanced unto them.  
The Pope had in sold the Marquis of Mantua, and Prospero Colonna, and the king sent Monsieur Lautreck to defend Milan by the help of the Venetians, whose Captains were Theodore Triwlcio, & Andrew Gritti: who after they had skirmished to and fro with the other side, about the river of Paw: in the end the Swissers hired by the Pope, said that they were content to defend the states of the Church, for which cause they were purposely hired: but against the French King they would not march. On the other side, the Swissers that were with the French king departed without any bidding farewell, or any word speaking. The pope's army & the Emperors marcheth on towards Milan: and at the first assault, the Marquis of Pescara Captain of the Spaniards maketh the Venetians to forsake the walls, and Triwlcio is taken and all Milan, & all Pavia and Lody, & diverse other places yield, crying out upon the French, and rejoicing to become imperial.  
Now died pope Leo the tenth (which no doubt much weakened the Emperor, for that his money began and entertained the war) in whose place was chosen Adrian the sixth a Fleming, by the favour of Caesar against all their minds, for that they thought a stranger of that Country and education, not very fit for Italy.  
The duke of Urbin recovereth his estate, and with the help of Baillous asiegeth Sienna. And ten thousand Swissers of Lucerne contrary to the minds of Surick & Suiths, come over the mount Goddard and Bernard into Lombardie, to help the French king to recover Milan: Prospero Colonna is as busy on the other side to defend it, and Antonio de Leva to defend Pavia. Monsieur de Lautreck besiegeth it, which he hopeth in time to get by famine: but their industry within deceiveth his hope. Whereupon Lautreck retireth towards France, and three thousand of his Swissers were slain at Bicoque by the imperial army. Lody also and Gone were taken by them.  
At Lucques at this time Poggio, and Totty, two men of noble family, under colour of private enmity, in the open palace slew the Gonfalonier of that city: but afterward were chased by the citizens. Sagusanac Malateste usurpeth upon Rimini.   

The xv. Book.  
THe French King being every where at peace, his return into Italy is suspected, and therefore Florence, Geane, Sienna, and Luca, are taxed with great sums for the maintenance of a continual army to defend Naples and Milan, and Don Charles de Lanoy is made Viceroy of Naples. The Pope taketh his journey towards Rome, and Charles the Emperor into Spain, and talketh with king Henry of England by the way, & they two jointly sent Ambassadors to Venice, to persuade them to leave the amity of the French king, and to join with the Emperor. The king of England moreover sent an Herald to the French king, to protest war against him, in case he would not make truce with the Emperor for three years, the which would not be granted: but the league between the Emperor and the Venetians succeeded, and touching the same, two excellent orations were made by Andrew Gritti, and George Cornare. While christian princes were thus undermining and vexing one another, Soliman Ottoman the Turk in person with infinite power besieged the Rhodes: the which though it were to the uttermost defended by the grand master and the knights thereof, yet by the negligence of the pope & christian princes, they were feign to yield, and on Christmas day the Turk in triumph entered, and dedicated all the Churches to Mahomet.  
The French kings army being now passing the Alps, and himself ready in person to follow, he discovered that the discontented duke of Bourbon, Constable of France, was conspired with the Emperor & the King of England, and should marry with Elinor the emperors sister, widow of Emanuel late king of Portugal, and that assoon as he was over the Alps, the duke of Bourbon, and the King of England should set upon France, and the duke should be King of Provence, and the King of England should have the rest.  
These news, though they appalled and stayed the King's person, yet did it break the attempt, and caused the duke to fly in a strange weed, first into la Franche Conte, and after to Milan. In the mean time, Pope Adrian dieth, and the Cardinal de Medici's is chosen, calling himself Clement the seventh.  
The French army being now passed the Alps, Monsieur de Bonivet a French Captain taketh Loda, the rest of the French power being under the conduct of the Admiral before Milan, were not in great hope to take it, but making diverse skirmishes, still came by the worst. And shortly after retired from thence, in which mean space the noble Captain Prospero Colonna died.  
The Pope refused to be of either side, whereof the French King is glad, & the Emperor very angry: for that he helped him to that dignity. The imperials pass the river of Thesin, and foil the French in divers places, insomuch that they begin to abandon the duchy of Milan, but in warlike array. The Marquis of Pescara followeth with light horses, and Chabanes is slain, and captain Bayard is taken prisoner, who died of his wounds: and the Admiral returneth into France. After which time the duke of Bourbon counseled the Emperor to turn the wars into France, alleging that the desire the English king had to conquer that realm, would much help him. The King of England also much encouraged the Emperor thereunto: but seeing the difficulties and charge for himself, and being dissuaded by the ambitious cardinal of York (who was secretly French) he moved little.  
The Emperor upon this confidence maketh war in Prouance: the duke of Bourbon and Marques Pescara being Captains. The duke would have passed on into the bowels of France: but the Marquis & other captains would by no means from the seas, but lay in siege before Marsiles forty days without profit. And for that before their coming they hoped that the king of England would so have fired the French king on his side, that all his forces should have bend that way, & that they should have received money out of England, (which both they failed of) they thought it folly to go any farther, or to abide till the king with his whole power, and six thousand Swissers should come upon them, and therefore with speed returned into Italy: wherewith the king being in heart, followed as fast, & all in one day the king came to Verceil, and the Marquis of Pescara: albeit forthwith it was agreed by the Viceroy, and the rest, that Antonio de Leva, should defend Pavia, and the other Milan, which was sore infected with the plague, that they durst scarcely furnish it, insomuch that the main army of France being at hand, ere they could well provide, the captain Alarcon was feign to leave it: and the King took it, using all clemency, notwithstanding he knew the French to be there hated. From thence he besiegeth Pavia, but could not take it: and sendeth Stuart duke of Albany in Scotlant with a power to Naples. The pope persuadeth them to peace.  
The duke of Ferrara being come into the French kings protection, helpeth him against Pavia, but it is succoured by the imperials. The pope & the French captains persuade the king to desist, but he saith he will either win or die. At the length on S. Mathias day, on which the Emperor was borne, the Viceroy and the Marquis of Pescara in well ordered battle joined with the King, who fought nobly, being hurt in the face, and in the hand, until his horse was slain under him, and after was taken by five common soldiers, that knew him not, but in the end he discovered himself to the Viceroy, who received him as prisoner to the Emperor. Antony de Leva in the mean time throwing down so much of the wall of Pavia, as an hundredth horses abrest might come through, issued out, and set on their back, spoiling and putting to flight all, saving the rearward of the duke of Alencon, taking prisoner the king of Navarre, the bastard of Savoy, Montmorancie, and others, and many of the Nobles and best captains were there slain.   

The xvi. Book.  
ALl the Potentates of Italy were now greatly dismayed with this taking of the king prisoner, fearing the greatness of the Emperor, sepecially the Pope: and next him the Venetians, who treated a league with the Pope, offering to join in these common dangers, & to levy ten thousand Swissers, and a sufficient band of Italians, not doubting the forwardness of my Lady Regent of France, to sand the duke of Albany with sufficient succours, and making sure account of the duke of Ferrara. The viceroy on the other side was careful to convey the king's person into some place of surety, & to make all sure, to join in amity with the pope. The Pope bit at the bait immediately & was full glad, and treated to bring in the Venetians also, but that would hardly be: for that they would not drop so much money as the Viceroy demanded.  
The Pope sendeth the Bishop of Pistoia to visit & comfort the French king. The Emperor being in Spain receiveth the news of this victory, & his confessor the Bishop of Oisme maketh an eloquent oration, persuading him frankly and freely to deliver the French king, and that to be the most profitable, honourable, and sure way: Frederick duke of Alba spoke to the contrary with great vehemency, saying, that to let him go were dangerous, and to let him go most honourably, were nothing to the Frenchmen, who were insolent and light, and made no regard of honour: and therefore to make profit of him were the best way. In fine, the Emperor sent unto him his great chamberlain Monsieur de Beaucain to Pisqueton to comfort him, & to tell him that these were his conditions: he should departed with the sovereignty of the dukedom of Burgundy to him: he should departed with Prouance to the duke of Bourbon, with many other great things, both for him, and for the king of England. The French king answered constantly, that he would die in prison before he would diminish the crown of France, for all other things, he would satisfy the Emperor with reason.  
In the mean time the Lady Regent of France employed all means possible, and especially the Cardinal of York, to win the king of England, where all the fear was.  
The Emperor on the other side solicited the King of England to join with him to conquer France: but the King demanded the whole kingdom in effect, if it were conquered, & some other such conditions, as gave them cause to break off.  
The Imperials become insolent in Italy, the French king is conveyed into Spain, & imprisoned at Madril, & the duke of Bourbon is sent for (without whom the Emperor will make no agreement) and being placed in the house of a great baron at the Emperor's request, he answered that he would obey, for that he and all was at his commandment. But so soon as the duke were gone, he would set it on fire with his own hands, lest it should smell of the infection of a traitor.  
There is now a conspiracy against the Emperor in Italy, wherein the Marquis of Pescara played a part at the first, and after accused the rest dishonourably, and shortly after died. In the mean time the French king falleth extremely sick at Madril, insomuch that the Emperor in person would have visited him, but his Chancellor would not suffer him. Within a while after the Emperor espouseth the infant of Portugal: the French king recovereth health, the Pope treateth for his deliverance, touching the which the great Chancellor and the Viceroy make two excellent orations.  
After this shortly ensueth the treatise of Madril for the king's deliverance, wherein was yielded Burgundy, Charelois, and so many other Countries, as they that heard it, did think it would never be kept: for assurance hereof the king was affianced to the emperors sister Elconor: and the Dolphin of France and the duke of Orleans, were brought in a boat to the midst of the river that divideth Spain & France, and the king in another boat, and at one instant they changed boats, and the king hasted to land, and had a Turkish horse ready, with whom he rid in post to Bayon, and there met with a messenger from the king of England, which greatly comforted him, unto whom he confessed, that he acknowledged the greatest cause of his delivery to proceed from him, and therefore he was for ever the English kings.   

The xvii. Book.  
ALthough both the Emperor and the King, had sworn to the conditions set down between them for his delivery, and that the king farther swore to ratify them, so soon as he came into a place of liberty, Nevertheless as soon as he came to Bayon, he answered the messenger that attended the ratification, that he durst not perform such things as were prejudicial to the crown of France, until he had won the minds of his subjects unto it. After that he highly complained himself to all princes and estates of the emperors severity, as well touching the hard conditions, as that he would not once vouchsafe to see him during his imprisonment: that his ambition grew so great, that he now meant to ruin the Pope, the Church, all Italy, and to bring all Christian princes into subjection. With these persuasions he hoped to bring all Italy and other princes to join with him, and consequently to bring the Emperor to such dangerous war, as he should of necessity be driven to release Burgundy, and other hard conditions for money.  
The Imperial army on the other side waxing every day in Italy more and more insolent, & being extremely chargeable to the Milanese, and Antonio de Leva himself, having every day thirty ducats, the people in tumultuous sort took weapon in hand, and had driven away both captains and soldiers, had not the cunning of the captain, and their own disorder compounded the matter.  
The Emperor sent the Viceroy of Naples into France, to accept the performance of the conditions: where he was greatly welcomed, but nothing was performed. The Emperor was near mad for anger, and so much the more, as that almost against all men's opinion, and contrary to the intelligence of the Lady Margueret Regent of Flaunders, he would needs insert the article of Burgundy, which they assured him would never be performed: but happily breed further broil.  
In the mean time at Coignac there is treated a league between the pope, the French King, the Venetians, and the duke of Milan, to be forthwith intimated to the Emperor, who had liberty to enter into it within three months: so that he delivered the French kings children at a reasonable ransom to be rated by the King of England. After this treaty the Pope surpriseth the letters of Antonio de Leva, touching the hard estate of the duke of Milan, and the duke of Urbin, general of the Venetians army, taketh Loda, and so passeth to Milan: where after long battery, they were feign to retire with some altercation between the duke and the lieutenant.  
The Spaniards in the mean time so plagued the Milanese, that one of them made a very lamentable oration to the duke of Bourbon (who was there arrived) and yet finding no remedy, but a courteous answer: some hanged themselves, some threw themselves out at their windows, and ended their miseries with other deaths. The army of the confederates once again approacheth towards Milan, but not only doth any good, but also the Castle itself by the duke is upon conference with the duke of Bourbon, yielded to the Imperials.  
While christian princes were thus tearing out the bowels one of another, Soliman Ottoman Turk, entereth into Hungary, and putteth the whole Country, and consequently all Christendom in danger, overthrowing Lewis the young King, and getteth a great part of that buckler of Christendom.  
The Pope, notwithstanding encourageth his confederates to set upon Naples, and Peter of Navarre is made general: and all the confederates offer the Emperor to enter into the league, performing the conditions: he answered, he could not with his honour, being a league made against him especially, and yet for a common quietness, he would do it presently, if the messengers had sufficient commission: meaning in deed nothing less, but only to keep the king of England from entering into it.  
Rome is surprised by the Colonois, and the Pope driven to leave the Emperor, and to deal with them: and the confederates by sea fight with the imperials.   

The xviii. Book.  
THe French King and the Venetians had the Pope in great jealousy, that he would forsake their league, in that he made many treatises with the Viceroy: and ever cried out of the charges of the war, and yet would not make money by creating of Cardinals, nor otherways, as other Popes did: but to break the treatise (if there were any such) they urged him, and bend themselves with him by sea against Naples. The pope's Lieutenant was Monsieur Vaudemont, who pretended right thereto by ancient title of king Rene: where after certain exploits of no great weight, the Pope seeing no greater success, and that the duke of Bourbon by the persuasion of the duke of Ferrara, drew towards Rome, and that the French promises were but wind, he fell to agree a truce for eight months with the Viceroy. The duke of Bourbon nevertheless would not accept of it, but marched on. The Viceroy himself in person went from Rome, to make him surcease, but all in vain: for the duke's case being now somewhat desperate, he draweth to Rome, and either meaneth to get that noble booty or to die: and therefore most valiantly giveth the assault himself before all men, and was slain with a arqebus. His death inflameth the soldiers, and especially the Lanceknights, who before were very cold: insomuch that within few hours they take the town and sack it, where they had infinite treasure.  
The palaces of the Cardinals were rifled, and the Cardinal of Sienna, who himself & all his ancestors were Imperial, was yet driven to compound with the Spaniards: & yet after (as in all such broils no man is sure) he was taken prisoner by the Launceknights, and carried bareheaded with many buffets to Borgo, where he paid a new ransom of five thousand ducats. In like manner were used all the Spanish and Dutch prelates: notwithstanding the hope of their Countrymen's favour.  
The Pope driven to keep himself in the castle, until the plague wearied his enemies, and composition made with the Imperials. The Emperor being certified of the Pope's distress, and that the plague was entered into his castle of S. Angelo, made outward show of dislike, but inwardly was very glad, and indeed he had caused him to be carried into Spain, had it not been for fear of the king of England: as for the French king, he cared not if the Pope had been hanged, and all Italy fired, so that he had again his children.  
The Cardinal of York is now sent into France, to make a league with the French king more sure, and to offer the marriage of the Lady Marie either to the king, if he went not on with the emperors sister, or otherwise to the duke of Orleans. And for that the Cardinal was honourably accompanied with xii. hundred horses, & had three C. thousand crowns to lend the king towards his wars with the Emperor. The Cardinal of Lorraine was first sent to receive him, and after the king himself received him at Amiens. In fine, the king and he sent Gambare to the Pope, to make the Cardinal of York his Vicar general in France, England and Germany, during his imprisonment: but secretly the French king withstood it by all means possible.  
In this mean space, the French army under the conduct of Monsieur de Lautreck take Bosco, and Genes by composition, after the Country of Alexandria, and then Pavia, where the soldiers sacked and peeled, and used cruelty eight days in memory of the battle of Pavia, where the king was taken. The duke of Ferrara entereth into the league with him, in respect whereof, Madam Rinse, daughter of king Lewis the xii. is promised to his son Hercules, and after the Marquis of Mantua entered into the same league.  
The treatise of peace seemed vain between the Emperor and the king: for the Emperor said he could not trust the king that had once deceived him. The King's ambassadors replied, that for as much as he took himself to be deceived, the King might the less trust him. In the end the ambassadors of France and England denounced war against him: and many hot speeches breeding hot choler, the Emperor challenging the combat of the French king said, he was a false forsworn king. The French king on the other side gave him the lie.  
The king of England embraceth the religion of Luther, and by the persuasion of the Cardinal of York, deuorceth his wife Katherine of Arragon. Monsieur de Lautrech entereth the kingdom of Naples, and Andro Door being at the sold of the king with his galleys, returneth to Geane, diverse places yield unto Lautreck, and by him Naples itself is besieged.   

The nineteen. Book.  
MOnsieur de Lautreck finding the value of the defendants of Naples, to be great, purposed to continue the siege, hoping that though virtue failed not, yet want of money and victual would make virtue yield to necessity. In the mean time Phillippin Door with his galleys and Geneuois, who were not able seamen, did sink diverse ships Imperial upon the sea, slaying the viceroy Don Hugue di Moncada, & Fieramosque, with divers other, to the number of a thousand, & taking prisoners the Marques of Guast, & Ascagnio Colonna, the prince of Salerne, and dives others.  
This conquest of the sea would not make Naples yield, for Phillippin Door took such direction of Andro Door to retire to Pozzovolo, that Naples was oft victualed, & the Venetian fleet, after they had gotten Ottranto stayed in hope to win the castle of Brundisium, so that the defendants were encouraged, and the assailants for lack of water and other necessaries fainted, and in the mean time Antonio de Leva perceiving that Pavia was negligently kept, assaulted it by night, and took it, and had the Captain's prisoners before the soldiers were awares.  
The Pope continued his neutrality between the two princes, and so was neither trusted of the French king, nor of the Emperor, who the more suspected him, for that he had sent Cardinal Campeius into England to divorce his kinswoman Queen Katherine, daughter of Arragon.  
Now doth Andro Door leave the sold of the king, and entereth sold with the emperor, upon conditions: & the french army before Naples is full of diseases, Monsieur de Vaudemont almost dead, Monsieur de Lautreck very sick, and shortly after dieth: so that the Marquis of Saluzzo is driven to capitulate with the prince of Orange, who is now viceroy. Monsieur de S. Poll gained certain towns in Lombardy for the French, & in the mean time Andro Dore taketh Geane for the imperials, through the gross negligence of the French king.  
Monsieur de S. Poll marcheth on still through Lombardy, & coming within xii. miles of Pavia: Antonio de Leva, who had been long sick, causeth himself to be carried in a chair, and all his men to put on white shirts, and stealeth without noise one night towards the French, within two miles of Ladriane, & unawares setteth on Monsieur de S. Poll, who albeit he fought valiantly, trusting to his lanceknights, yet they ran away, and he remained prisoner with Castillon, claud Rangin, and diverse others, to Antonio de Leva.  
Now beginneth the Pope to treat a peace at Barcelone with the Emperor, greatly to the Pope's advantage, both for that he should forget injuries past, & be no hindrance to the Emperor, who meant personally to make a voyage into Italy. The like was treated between the French King and the Emperor at Cambray, a place destinied to such great treatises, being there present the two lady Regent's, for the two princes, the Ambassadors of the confederates, and the duke of Suffolk, and the Bishop of London for the King of England. The French King being somewhat ashamed of this act, for certain days kept himself close, and would not be seen of the ambassadors of his confederates: in the end he gave them sweet words, comforts, and promises, excusing himself, that otherwise he could not have his children.  
The Emperor after this, commandeth the prince of Orange to assail the Florentines, and himself in royal person cometh to Geane, where the princes of Italy do salute him by their Ambassadors.  
The King and the Pope talked together at Bolognia, the pope entering first, as the greater princes use. The Turk left off besieging Vienna: the Emperor is inclined to capitulate with the Venetians, and Francis Sforce, to whom he restored the dukedom of Milan, and the Venetians to the Church that they held in Romagna, and to the Emperor that which they held in Puglia.   

The xx. Book.  
THese late leagues seemed now to establish peace each where, saving only to the poor Florentines, who often had helped others to make their peace, and now the peace of others drew them to a dangerous war with the Emperor, who now sent against them four thousand Lanceknights, and three thousand Spaniards and Italians under the prince of Orange: which maketh Piscara and Prato yield of themselves to the Pope, and the soldiers of France being well paid, defended themselves valiantly.  
In the mean time the Pope causeth the French king to send Monsieur de Clerimont to Florence, to excuse himself, for not comprehending them in the league upon necessity of recovering his children, wishing them to take such conditions as they could get in so hard a case, wherein himself would be a dealer for them.  
The Emperor meaning to go to Rome to be crowned, being letted with certain importunate affairs of Germany, and chief to elect his brother Ferdinand, king of Romans, was feign to be crowned at Bolognia, Anno 1530, on his birth day of S. Mathias, which was his fortunate day, and there the Pope and the duke of Ferrara compromitted all their differences unto him.  
The Florentines being often skirmished withal, and often battered, though they valiantly defended (after the death of the prince of Orange, and departure of the Marquis of Guast) were yet for very hunger and diversity of opinions, driven to offer to Gonsague the Captain of the Imperials, that Caesar himself and the Pope should determine their conditions and government, their life and liberty saved.  
Ferdinand is now chosen King of Romans at a decree in Ausbourge, and there is treatise against the Lutherians, of whom the great princes began to be afraid: and at the instant request of the Germans, the Emperor summoned the Pope to call a Council: the Pope utterly misliked it, as prejudicial to his Court, and abuses, and yet dissembled it cunningly.  
The French would never be long quiet, but the King turneth to his old emulation of the greatness of the Emperor, and persuadeth with the Pope and states of Italy to take heed of it. To the states of Germany, he affirmeth that the Emperor meant to make it a Monarchy. The King of England he pricketh forward, in recounting unto him how angry the Emperor was for the divorce of his mother's sister: and last of all, that which evil beseemed the most Christian King, he stirreth up the Turk, who indeed was already jealous of his greatness, and hated him also in respect of his brother, with whom he was at odds for Hungary.  
The Emperor still calleth upon the Council, he desireth now to renew the league of Bolognia, and to comprehend in it all Italy, making contribution for their common defence against the French. The Pope liked not to be of any side, remembering the dangers passed so often as the sides were overthrown, but being of that calling, he liked neutrality better, as the surest way.  
The Emperor returneth into Spain, and the Pope and the French king talk at Marseilles of great matters, under pretence of dealing against the Turk, and the King of England's divorce. To ratify their matters, Katherine of Medici's the Pope's niece, was married to Henry the second son of France, whom now the Pope would feign make duke of Milan forthwith: for he foreknew (as it seemed) that he should shortly die, in that he made his Ring, and all other habiliaments, and indeed died, in whose place was chosen Alexander Farnese, called Paul the third.  
The duke of Wittenberg, by aid of the Landgrave of Hesse, and the French Kings money, recovered the dukedom from Ferdinand, and great troubles were toward: but the matter was compounded without the French kings consent, who in the mean time hoped to get Milan.  
At this time also Barbarossa Bascha general by sea to Soliman, passing to the conquest of Thunis, scoured the rivers of Calabria, and passed Caiette, and put all Italy in such a fear, as he might easily have taken Rome, if he had come forward.   
FINIS.