Vox Coeli, OR NEWS FROM HEAVEN. Of a Consultation there held by the high and mighty Princes, King Hen. 8. King Edw. 6. Prince Henry, Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Anne, wherein SPAIN'S ambition and treacheries to most Kingdoms and free Estates of EUROPE are unmasked and truly represented, but more particularly towards ENGLAND, and now more especially under the pretended match of Prince CHARLES with the Infanta DONA MARIA. Whereunto is annexed two Letters written by Queen Mary from Heaven, the one to Count Gondomar, the Ambassador of SPAIN, the other to all the Roman Catholics of ENGLAND. Written by S.R.N.I. Printed in Elysium. 1624. TO THE ILLUSTRIOUS AND GRAVE ASSEMBLY OF THE HIGH COURT OF PARLIAMENT. The fruition of all Temporal Blessings. The felicity of all Spiritual Blessings. Lords. Knights. Burgesses. TO you who are the representive body of England, and the Epitome and Compendium of this great Volume of our Estate; To you who are assummoned by our King, and sent up by our Country, to obey the first with your best Fidelities, to serve the second with your chiefeft zeal and endeavours, and to affect and honour both, with your most religious prayers and wishes. To you from whom God for his glory, our Sovereign for his honour and safety, and our Church and Commonweal for their flourishing welfare and prosperity, do expect much by your transcendent and honourable employments: To you I say, and to no other do I present this Consultation (termed Vox Coeli) to your consideration, and dedicate it to your protection. And because (in point of integrity and duty) I hold myself bound to bring the truth nearer to your knowledge, or rather home to your understanding; May it please you to be informed, that about some three years since, at the first setting of the last high Court of Parliament, when our King was so earnest in proposing the match of our Noble Prince his Son, with the Infanta of Spain; When the King of Spain colourably pretended (though not really intended) to be deeply affected to entertain and embrace the said motion; When Count Gondomar (his Ambassador) made show to be a zealous solicitor, and a most active and officious stickler for compassing and finishing it; When our Romish Catholics became passionately and insultingly confident of the free toleration of their Religion, and in the skie-reaching mountains of their ambitious and superstitious hopes, were already preparing, to erect their Groves and Altars, to set up their Idols and Images, and consequently to introduce their Pope and his Mass in the Temples of our God; when all Prisons were unlocked, and open to all pernicious Priests and dangerous Jesuits, and that many others like (Caterpillars and Vipers) came flocking and swarming from diverse parts of Europe, to poison and eat out the souls of our people, with their Idolatrous doctrine of Antichrist, and to withdraw their hearts and consciences from their Allegiance and Fidelity, to their natural Prince & Country; purposely (with more treachery than Religion) to subject them to a foreign power & jurisdiction. When the Emperor had beaten the King of Bohemia from Prague, and the Duke of Bavaria with the assistance of the Swords, Soldiers, and Treasure of the King of Spain, had in a settled truce assaulted and taken many Towns in the Palatinate, contrary to their promises to our King, & of his Majesties to the Prince his Son in Law, and contrary to the public peace of Germany and Christendom. Then, than it was, (that to pull off the Mask of Spain's ambition and malice, who with the fire of this match, sought to set England all flaming in a mournful and miserable combustion thereby to bury her glory in the dust, and her safety in the cinders of her subversion and ruins) that as Prometheus fetched fire from heaven, so the fire of my zeal to the good of my Prince & Country, likewise fetched from thence this Royal consultation for the discovery of our apprant and imminent dangers, and in knowing them, to know likewise how to prevent them; Which resolving to make public, because it is solely tended to England's public glory and prosperity: I contrary to my expectation (but not to my fears,) saw my hopes nipped in their blossoms, and my desires stifled in their births, because the Seas of our King's affection to Spain went so lofty, and the winds were so tempestuous, that it could not possibly be permitted to pass the Pikes of the Press: When albeit my zeal and fidelity again and again infused new audacity and courage to my resolutions, to see it salute the light, yet it was impossible for me or it to be made so happy, because I saw Allured's honest Letter, Scots loyal Vox Popoli, D. Whiteing, D. Everad, & Claytons' zealous Sermons, and others, suppressed and silenced, as also Wards faithful picture, which yet was so innocent, as it only breathed forth his fidelity to England in silent Rhetoric, and dumb eloquence. Whereupon enforced to take a law from the iniquity of the time, (with much reluctation and more grief) I hushed up my said Consultation in silence, and because I could not serve my Prince and Country in that book of mine: I therefore then renewed my constant resolution and zeal to serve them in my most fervent prayers, and my most religious and zealous wishes, the which I have ever since faithfully and constantly performed. Sitting thus to behold the constant inconstancy of the World, which presents as many different accidents to our knowledge, as objects to our eye; and being jealous, vigilant, and attentive, to that which did, or which might any way appertain to my Sovereign and his Princely posterity to his Dominions and Subjects; I was enforced to see (O that I had been so happy as not to have seen) the perfidious Progress of Spain's new treacheries, and usurpation upon many Countries of Europe; For first, his Cousin Leopaldus hath devoured the Duchy of Cleaves and juliers; then he and his forces have taken many other free Towns, and whole Bishoprics in the Counties of Luxembourg, and La Mark; as also in the frontiers of Switzerland and Lorraine: then he and his Factor the Duke of Bavaria (for him) hath finished his absolute Conquest of the Palatinate (that dainty, rich and fertile Province of Germany) the Dowry of our only Princess, the inheritance of the Prince her Husband, and the Patrimony of their Royal issue, wherein the honour of our King, and of his three famous Kingdoms, do most extremely suffer. I saw him conquer the chiefest Cities, Forts, and Passages of the Grisons, and hath brought their liberties and lives to their last gasp and period; yea, to the merciless mercy of his not generous but bloody sword; which being under the protection of the French King, doth likewise cast a wonderful stain and blemish on the lustre of his honour and Crown, if he speedily take not his revenge thereof; by leaving these his honest Confederates as free as he found them, and as great Henry his Father left them. And after the triumphs and treacherous progression of the house of Austria in Germany. The King of Spain hath now made a body of his, and the Imperial forces, and this Summer intends to play his bloody prize for the total ruin and subversion of the Netherlands; who (to the eye of the world, and to humane judgement) must shortly sink, if the two Kings of great Britain and France do not make them swim; by speedily sending them brave succours and assistance in this their urgent necessity. And whereunto tends all this treacherous ambition, and formidable usurpation and greatness of the King of Spain, but to cut out a passage with his sword, and to make his troops and regiments fly o'er the Alps, for his erecting and obtaining of the Western Empire? And whereunto tends it I say, but to make his territories and Dominions to encirculize great Britain and France, yea to be their Cloister, and to make and esteem those two famous Monarchies, but only as a fatal Churchyard to bury and inter themselves in. But Illustrious and generous Sirs, is this all the malice and treachery which Spain hath offered towards England? O no, nothing less; for upon that journey (which was as dangerous as sudden) of our Prince into Spain (than whom the world hath not a braver:) Hath not the King of Spain dealt treacherously with him about his match with the Infanta his Sister? yea have they not in his Princely person, violated the Laws of Hospitality, and the Privileges of Princes (when being under his own roof) by attempting to tie him to forms, which were diametrally opposite to his honour; yea, to be so audaciously impudent, as with much violency and virulency to seek to put a rape upon his Conscience and Religion, in their proffered enforcement of his Conversion to Popery; as if their Infanta had been to him more precious than his soul, or that he had been so wretchedly grounded and instructed in piety, that his Highness would have forsaken his God, purposely to have obeyed and adored the King of Spain, who is not, nor cannot be a greater King than he is a Prince? And to step yet a degree farther; was it not a hellish policy, and a diabolical design and resolution of the Council of Spain, to advise our Prince upon his return into England, to war upon the Protestants; and to proffer him an Army to suppress and exterminate them. The Protestants, I say, who are those by whom our King his Father reigneth, and without whom his Majesty can never subsist nor reign; nor his highness successively aspire, or hope to aspire to his Crowns and kingdoms after him, sith they are the life, the vigour, the heart, and the soul thereof. And will our King, and our Prince, our Parliaments and our Protestants of England, then ever forget this inveterate rage, and infernal malice of Spain against them? as also the rest of their imperious and insulting carriage towards his Highness and towards great Britain, as if they prized it at so low a rate, and made their boundless ambition so excessively over-value their own Spain? that that were in the Crisis of her weakness and misery, and this in the prime & vertical point of her power and glory? And when his Highness pressed them for the restitution of the Palatinat, which they had often promised to the King his Father, than they temporised so cunningly, and subtillized so treacherously with him, that every day brought forth new delays and difficulties, till in the end they had made the cure worse than the disease, & having taken firm footing therein, were enforced to unveil & unmask their dissimulation, and faintly and coldly to affirm, that they would treat with the Emperor for the restitution thereof, but could not promise it: Thus having abused, first our King the Father, and then our Prince the Son, they have now likewise betrayed and ruined our Princess the Daughter in their final Conquest, and resolute detention of the Prince her Husband's Palatinate, that Princess I say, whose royal and sublime virtues, make her the honour of her time, the ornament of her sex, and the Phoenix Princess of the world. Whereunto adding the absolute breach of the Match long since prophetically delacerated, and cast in Heaven by the Princely and Royal Authors of this Consultation, and since the same breach here on earth likewise so happily confirmed by the King, as also by the Prince: so all these premises considered▪ hath not England reason to hate Spain, in regard Spain hates it? especially because of these two main ensuing points, & important considerations? First, for that the King of Spain is a greater & more professed Enemy to our sacred King & his royal posterity, then either the Emperor, or Duke of Bavaria, and is so to be held and esteemed of us. Secondly, that therefore to denounce war to him, and to make it good as soon as it is denounced, is as Honourable as necessary, and as just as honourable for England; As upon New years day last I made these two points apparent and manifest to the King; in my Discourse entitled Votivae Angliae, which I sent his Majesty in the behalf and favour of the Prince Palatine his son in law, for the restoration of his Palatinate. Having thus (with as much disdain as grief) seen his inveterate malice towards great Britain, towards our King and his Royal posterity, and consequently the eminent danger wherinto our profound security hath thrown & precipitated us in particular; and understanding likewise how the said King of Spain with Xerxes, threatens the Seas and Mountains of Europe in general; Being as well in heart as tongue an Englishman, and therefore knowing by Grace, what I owe by Nature to my natural Prince and Country (like Croesus his dumb son) I would not, I could not be silent thereat, but must expose this Consultation of Vox Coeli to the light and sight of the world; I mean to the light of your knowledge, and the sight of your consideration, under the secure Target, and safe shelter and sanctuary of your auspicious protection. To you therefore great Britain's greatest Palladines and Champions; to you the invincible Bulwark of our King and his Royal progeny, and the inexpugnable Citadel and Acrocorinth of our Estate: To you I say the conscript Fathers of our supremest Senate, doth it in duty present itself, and in humility prostrate itself; which when your first leisure hath curiously read, and your best zeal carefully and maturely considered: Then by all that true English blood which streameth in your heart & veins, by all the love which your Country bears you, and by all the duty and affection which reciprocally you owe to your Country; I both request and conjure you, To tell our King that it is nothing for his Majesty to have made a brave and generous Declaration of wars against Spain, except he speedily second it with execution, without which it will prove a vain Fantasma, and an abortive Embryo: Tell him, that it were the last Acts of Augustus, which embellished his reign, and that old Pericles made the greatness of his generosity and courage, to revive & flourish on his Tomb, when he caused the Athenians to war upon the Pelopenessians: Tell him that Philopaemenus affirmeth, that peace is the best time to meditate of war. Tell him that to transport war into Spain, is to avoid and prevent it in England, as Hannibal said to King Antiochus, that the only way to make war against the Romans, was to begin it in the heart and bowels of the Dominions of Rome, and so to vanquish Italy by Italy. Tell him that Plutarch affirms, there is no Action so royal or magnificent in a King, as to take Arms to assist and revenge his Confederates unjustly oppressed and ruined, much more his own Royal children, and that if the Palatinate be too far, that Flanders and Brabant, are but the skirts and Suburbs of England. Tell him that Agesilaus said, that words are feminine, and deeds Masculine, and that it is a great point of honour, discretion, and happiness for a Prince, to give the first blow to his Enemies. Tell him that Spaniards hate us; why then should we love them? that we can beat them at our pleasures, why then should we fear them? Tell him that if it goes not well with Holland, it must needs go ill with England; and that if we do not prevent their ruin, that we cannot secure our own danger. Tell him that in matters of war, it is dangerous to make a stand, shameful to retire, and glorious to advance. Tell him that Philip of Spain is of Pyrrhus his mind, who said, that having devoured and conquered all Europe, he would end his days in jollity and pleasure in Macedonia. And therefore that it is time, yea high time to strike up our Drums against him, because as well our safety, as our Honour envites us to it. And now turning from his Majesty, to you the Illustrious and famous body of this great and famous Court of Parliament, (whereof the King is the head) to you, I say, who are the cream and flower of his Subjects: O hold it no disparagement that I tell you, That sith in all matters of Order, Policy and Reformation, that delays and protractions prove still dangerous, many times fatal; That you beware least as your Consultations fly away with the time, that occasion and opportunity fly not away with your consultations, sith Time must be taken by his forelock, and then as julius Caesar saith, we have wind and tide with us. Think what a happiness, what a glory it is for England to have wars with Spain, sith Spain in the Lethargy of our peace, hath very near undermined our safety▪ and subverted our glory; And let us dispel those charms of security, wherein England hath been too long lulled and enchanted asleep: And if fear and pusilanimity yet offer to shut our eyes against our safety, yet let our resolution and courage open them to the imminency of our danger; that our glory may surmount our shame, and our swords cut those tongues and pens in pieces, which henceforth dare either to speak of peace, or write of truce with Spain. No, no; to take the length of Spain's foot aright, we must do it with our swords, not with our necks, for the first will assuredly establish our safety, and the second infallibly ruins. Wars, wars, than ye (with cheerful hearts and joyful souls) let us prepare ourselves for wars: That our great Britain the beauty of Europe, as Europe is the glory of the world) lie no longer exposed to the apparent danger and merciless mercy of this castilian Rat, of this Crocodile of Italy, of this Vulture of Germany, & of this wolf of Ardena; but let us all signalise our fidelities to our Sovereign by our courage, and immortalize our zeal to our Country by our valour and resolution herein·s That we may all be of Alcibiades his opinion, that the bed of Honour is the best death, that there is no better recompense of death than glory, nor no richer glory, then to die for our Prince & Country. And here I had imposed silence to my pen, and infused a period to this my Epistle, had not the dignity of your places, the quality of your employments, the nature of the time, and the consideration that I am an Englishman, commanded me to insert and anex these few lines, by the way either of a Supplement, or a Postscript. Although I can add nothing to your affection and care, for the good of our Country, yet give me leave (I beseech you) to subtract from this mine own fidelity and zeal. 1. That you be careful that our wars (both by sea and land) be plentifully stored with money, powder and shot, which indeed is the veignes and Arteries, the sinews and soul of war. 2. That you cry down all gold and silver Lace, and all Silks, Velvets, and Taffities, and cry up wool cloth, and black Cuirasses and Corslets instead thereof, that thereby England as a black and dismal cloud, may look more martial and terrible to our Enemies. 3. That our English Romanists may be taught either to love, or to fear England. 4. That there be provision made, and especial care had to secure his Majesty's Coasts, Seas, and Subject from the Ships of War of Dunkirk and Ostend, by whom otherwise they will he extremely indomaged and infested. 5. That by some wholesome Statute and Order, you cleanse the Cities and Country, the Streets and highways of all sorts of Beggars, by providing for their labour and relief, whereby many hundred thousand Christian souls will pray unto God for his Majesty; and to pour down his blessings upon all your Designs and Labours, whereby without doubt our wars will succeed and prosper the better. I will no farther usurp on your patience: But here (withdrawing the Curtain of this Preface) invite your eyes and thoughts to the sight and consideration of this Consultation. S.R.N.I. The Printer to the Readrr. GEntlemen, I heartily beseech you to amend and correct your Books with your Pens; that in the reading thereof, the Author's innocency suffer not through the Delect of my remissness, in your Censures and exprobration. Farewell. Errata. Page 4. Line 8. for imiat read innate, p. 7.16. for States r. State, p 11. l. 14. for so r. so if, Ibid. l. 26. for monsieur de Boysils, read Monsieur de Boysile, p. 12. l. 18. for Peers r. Pieces, p. 21. l. 6. for Derne 1. Berne, Ibid. l. 28. for Fort Trentes r. Fort Fuentes, p. 22. l. 14. for Milan and Spain read Milan to Spain, p. 20. l 6. for Du Fremes r. Du Termes, Ibid▪ for Faxis r. Taxis, Ibid. for Lullias' r. Lullins, p, 30. l. 7 for Morcanques r Mirargues, p. 32. l. 21. for Bovelle 1. Bonelle, p, 38▪ l. 32. for D. of Sicily r. D of Suilly, p. 41. l. 4. for Samury r. Samur, Ibid. l. 22. for Merary r. Mercury, p 68 l. 31. for B of Molosses r. K. of Molosses, p, 71. l. 13. for his Catholic r. his Catholic Majesty, p. 74. l. 5. for self for joy, read self to Death for joy. Vox Coeli. The Introduction. Heaven being God's Throne, and Earth his Footstool, it is impossible any thing can be here spoken and acted, but will there be heard, revealed and detected; for not only our hearts but our thoughts, not only our tongues but our intents, lie open and are obvious & transparent, to the glorious and relucent eyes of Gods most sacred Majesty, who being the sole Architector, & preserver both of Heaven and Earth, rules that by his presence, this by his providence, and both by his power; and that we Men are not by many thousand degrees so great in his eyes, as the smallest Pysmires are in ours; who looks still on our Designs and Actions, sometimes with approbation, now with pity, then with contempt, and anon with Choler & Indignation, being himself the prime president, the great Moderator, the mighty Councillor, the eternal and everlasting Jehovah; who can and will give Laws to all the Kings and Princes of the earth, as they do to their subjects, by their subordinate, and yet transcendent power, drawn from his most sacred Majesty of Heaven, as the Stars who actually derive their light, & borrow their lustre from the refulgent beams, and glorious body of the Sun. And as this great God seated in his Celestial throne of Glory, with his allseeing and sacred eyes beholds in Heaven the thoughts and actions of men here on earth, so likewise out of his indulgent mercy and providence he likewise gives the same authority and power to his Angels, Saints and Martyrs, to do the like; who clad in white Robes, the Ornaments of sanctity and purity, with Palm branches in their hands the Emblems of Peace and joy, and Crowns and Coronets on their heads, the rewards and marks of Glory. Follow the Lamb Christ jesus wheresoever he go, still singing these joyful Io Paeans and Epithalamians of Haleluiah, and Glory be to God on High, Peace on Earth, and good will towards men. By virtue of which Divine privileges, the mask of Spain's boundless Ambition being discovered & pulled off, in supporting the Pope, & seeking the increase of his spiritual jurisdiction, whereby his Holiness in Exchange, may enlarge that of Spain's temporal Monarchy, so as that shall have feet to go, and these wings to fly to the height of earthly greatness; whereby the Catholic Kings aim, out of the ruins of Rome and Germany, to erect another Empire in the West, and endeavour by degrees to make most of the Kingdoms and Free Estates of Europe become Provinces unto Spain; as, some by force, some by policy, some by treachery, and now England by the Match of the Infanta his Daughter, with our most Illustrious and Royal Prince Charles (next to his Royal Father King james, our most Dread Sovereign) the hope of England's life, and the life of its joy and hope. I say the news of these projects and resolutions of Spain, having with as much fortunary as celerity) passed the Clouds, and pierced the vaults and windows of Heaven, it fast arrived there, to the understanding of that immortal maiden Queen Elizebeth, whose heart ever loved England as her soul did Heaven, and of whose flourishing welfare and prosperity I cannot truly aver, whether she still remain more jealous or ambitious; Whereat grieving with as much disdain, as she disdained with grief, & knowing that her Nephew and Godson Prince Henry, participated and burned in her zeal, that the insatiable and bloodthirsty Ambition of Spain, might not erect his Trophies upon the Tomb of England's downfall, and the ruins of her subversion, she speedily acquaints him with it; whom although Heaven had purified and devested of his Earthly passions, yet such was this young Prince, his never dying zeal to England's ever living Glory, that his Highness could not refrain from looking red with anger, and pale with fear, at the report & knowledge thereof. They consult hereon, and hold it both expedient and necessary to acquaint other English Princes herewith, especially those whom they knew stood deeply and sincerely affected to England. So Prince Henry acquaints his Mother Queen Anne herewith, & Queen Elizabeth her Brother King Edward 6. and both they their Father King Henry 8. who so upon advise hereof could not refrain to look on England with the eyes of affection and pity, and on Spain with those of indignation and contempt. So these five great Princes and Queens prepare themselves to Consult on this most important business, when lo they are suddenly met and assailed, with a doubt of no mean consequence and consideration viz. Whether, or no they should admit and receive Queen Mary into this their Consultation, whom not her Roman merits, but the prayers, of the Protestants had brought to Heaven; When at first they considering that in heart & soul, she always loved, and preferred Rome and Spain before England; they resolved to exclude her, but at last (upon riper and more mature deliberation) considering that she knew many secrets of Spain, whereof peradventure they were ignorant; as also that from her innate & inveterate malice to England, she might (either in jest or earnest) bewray something that might turn and redound to the good of England, they all consented she should be advertised hereof, and so admitted; which was instantly performed; and as the rest of these Royal Princes envied Spain's ambition, and pitied England's dangers; So to speak the truth, and no more, Queen Marry (still resembling herself) both in her speeches and looks testified the contrary; Vowing that as she loved Philip the II. the Father, so she would still honour Philip the III. his Son. Thus these three Princes and three Queens, not daring to consult in Heaven on any thing, without permission of the Superior powers, they all reprayre to the sacred throne of the Lamb, (of that Great Maker and conductor of Heaven and earth) whose Tribunal is environed with more sparkling and burning Suns, than we see Stars in the Firmament; and who is waited and atended on by many millons and Maryades of Angels; Where in sign of God's glory and their humility, these Royal personages fall on their faces to his blessed feet, and so proffer up their Petition to his heavenly Majesty to have authority, and place given them to Consult on this important business betwixt England and Spain. There petition read and considered, God out of the profundity of his immense affection and favour, towards the prosperity of England, (Wherein for the space of well near One hundred years, his Sacred Majesty hath seen himself truly served and glorified) ratifies their request, and approves and authoriseth their sitting; When departing from Gods most sacred throne; they were by a full Choir of Angels with Trumpets & Timbrels in their hands, ushered into the golden Star-chamber of Heaven, which was purposely prepared for them; when taking their several seats, the door shut, and guarded by England's Tutulary Angel, with a naked brandished sword in his hand, all things being hushed up in silence, and all heavenly duties and ceremonies performed, these six Royal personages begin their Consultation in this manner. The Consultation. H. 8. BEfore we descend to speak of Spain's ambition and Envy towards England, or of the Match now in question betwixt England and Spain, with the dangers which threaten, & presage us will ensue thereof it will not be impertinent, rather necessary; that we mount up the steps of this last century of years, and so take a cursory, though not a curious survey, with what Ambition, Cruelty, and Treachery, the Kings of Spain from time to time, have knocked at most Kingdoms and Estates of Europe; in the unfolding and dilating whereof, you must not expect much light from me, rather I from yourselves, sith as your years so your reigns succeed me. Navarre. E. 6. ANd as you all know, my years were so few and my reign so short, that neither these, nor this, made me capable to dive into the affairs of Princes and Kingdoms, and yet I must confess it was both with grief and pity, that I read, with what usurpation and treachery, Ferdinand King of Arragon deprived john of Albret, and Katherine his Queen of their flourishing Kingdom of Navarre, who for mere grief and sorrow died immediately after, having no other claim nor title to this Kingdom, but an insatiable desire of Empire and Dominion, which the Aragonois, and Castilians won with the points of their Swords. Q. M. O but Navarre lay fit and commodious for the Provinces of old Castille, Biscay, & Galasia, besides the Kings of Spain are the Catholic Kings, & therefore it is both proper and natural for them to be universal. Q. E. It is indeed both natural & proper to them to be ambitious and tyrannical, for I am confident, that as Catholic as they are, they love Earth's Empire, better than Heaven's Glory; and sure I cannot but lament to see Navarre made a Province to Spain, which more is the grief of Christendom, and the shame of the Royal line of Bourbon, now the French King, whose patrimony and inheritance it is, and will not King Lewes recover it. P. H. Had Great Henry his Father lived, he would undoubtedly have reconquered Navarre with as much glory, as it was lost with shame and pity; yea the Turrets of Pampelone, and Fonterarby, had long since cast off the ragged Staff, to beat out the three Flower de Luce's. Q. A. So might King Lewes his Son too, if the Pope and Jesuits diverted not his thoughts from that honourable and glorious Enterprise. E. 6. Surely it is against the laws of Conscience, and the rules of Religion, for the Kings of Spain thus to usurp Navarre, or were they so just, as they pretend they were holy, they would restore and not retain this Kingdom. Q. M. O the Catholic Kings are too wise to commit such gross Errors of State, as to restore; for it is Conquest and Possession, and no way restitution, which affords them best melody; Besides, sith they are the Catholic Kings, they cannot be irreligious much less uncharitable. H. 8. Why then Daughter, the Kings of Spain are of Pyrrhus and Lysander's mind, whose limits and confines of their Countries they held so far, as their Swords and Lances could extend them. Which being so, they are only Catholic in title, not in effect, much less in heart or soul, for if Usurpation be Religion, I know not what is Heresy. E. 6. The Pope may, but our Saviour Christ, never authorised or approved Usurpation. Q. M. But the Kings of Spain know the Pope's will and pleasure, as they do Gods, and this belief I am sure is both Catholic and Apostolical. Q. E. See see with how much ignorance & wilfulness, with what blind zeal and poor implicit faith, my Sister is perpetually linked to Rome and Spain. P. H. If so Usurpation be Rome's Doctrine, & Spain's Delight and practice, my soul did well to make me hate the one, and detest the other. The West Indieses, or New Spain. H. 8. But leave we Navarre weeping and groaning under the burden of the miserable servitude to Spain; O how since Columbus de Cortes, and Pizarro, (with as much judgement as fortunacy (discovered to Castille the rich America, and in it the Gold and Silver mines, which hath given wings to his Ambition to fly to the height of this earthly Greatness, wherein we see Spain seated and founded; How it hath both grieved and amazed me to understand, how at Cuba, Hayta, Peru, Panama, and Mexico, and in all these Vast Isles and spacious Continents, that the Spaniards with a more than hellish Cruelty, have slain such infinite Millions and Meryades of those poor Indians, whereby in a manner they have wholly depopulated these populous Countries, and not only made rivers but whole seas of their Blood; and of whose inhuman and bloody Cruelty, I may justly say; that as all former ages cannot show the like Precedent, so our posterity will difficultly believe it. And yet behold the horrible Hypocrisy of these insulting and usurping castilians; for demand them the reason of these their bloody and execrable Massacres, of those poor armlesse and harmless Indians, and of the rooting out and exterminating of all their Princes and Nobility, they with as much falsehood as impiety will affirm, that sith their King is the Catholic King, so this is to plant the Catholic faith in the remote, and new found Worlds of the World; whereby we may observe, that Religion must still be the pretext, and cloak of their bloody Usurpation, when Heaven & Earth knows and sees, that it is first gold, than a greedy desire of Dominion and Empire, which is the true cause, and sole object thereof. E. 6. But if that bloody resolution, against these huge numbers of poor Indians took place in the heart and Council of Charles 5. must it needs follow that the like inhumanity and cruelty should live in this of Phill. 2. and Phill. 3. his Son and Grandchild: so as this bloodthirsty malice of spleen and gall against there poor Indians, must be hereditary to the Kings of Spain, as now by custom and intrusion, (and by the ignoble connivency of the Prince's Electors) the ambition to enjoy the Empire of Germany, is to the house of Austria, from whence they are descended. Portugal. Q. E. MY royal Father observed well, that Religion was only the pretext, but wealth and Empire the sole object of Spain's ambition; for although Charles 5. usurped those places of America from the Indians, who indeed knew not Christ; yet what Religion or Catholic was that of Phill. 2. his Son, under hand to precipitate, and throw Sebastian King of Portugal into the unnecessary and unfortunate wars of Africa against the Moors, where he loosed his life with his ambition: and then after his decease, to work so on the impotency, fear, and ignorance, of old King Henry his successor, as (contrary to the laws of justice and Nature) to enforce him to illegitimate Don Anthony the Prior of Cra●o, who was the first and nearest heir unto that Crown and Kingdom, thereby to exclude him as indeed he did, or if he had not an itching and longing desire to swallow and devour that Kingdom of Portugal▪ which all Christendom and Rome herself knew was still more Catholic than Spain, yea and then when he had engaged his royal word to the rest of the Pretendants, as the aforesaid Don Anthony, the Dukes of Savoy and Parma, Katherine of Maedicis) Queen mother of France) and Katherine Duchess of Braganca; that he with them would stand to the sentence of the Chamber of Lisbon, to know to whom the right of the Kingdom most properly and lineally descended. That then this King Phill. 2. forgot his conscience to God, and his promise to these Princes (fearing others right, and distrusting his own) brought an Army to the gates of Lisbon, ere the Pretendants, or Portugeses themselves dreamt thereof, or had means or leisure to defend themselves, whereby such was insatiable ambition, usurpation, and covetousness, that in a plain and settled peace, he devoured this rich & noble Kingdom; making it not only tributary but a Province to Spain. And was this also Religion, or to plant the Catholic faith? or rather was it not manifest treachery, and apparent usurpation, sith if Don Anthony had not, all the world knows, the Duchess of Braganca had more right to this Kingdom than King Phill. P.H. Yea, that policy King Phil. learned of the Emperor Charles 5▪ his Father, who when himself, and King Francis the first of France, contended for the Empire of Germany, whiles Francis was bribing of the Electors, Charles brought an Army into the field, and so enforced them to elect and choose him. Q.M. I must confess I have ever held the Portingalls, to be zealous and good Roman Catholics; but as Navarre lay fit for Biscay and Galicia, so Portugal lay exceeding commodious for Andoulosie and so if my husband King Philip, had not seconded his right of descent by the law of his sword, perhaps he might have had a bad neighbour in Portugal, which he and his Council timely foreseeing, they as wisely prevented. And howsoever, although he hated Don Anthony, yet I know he loved the Duchess of Braganca well; but when we speak of Crowns and Kingdoms, Religion will make this surprise of Portugal a matter of State, though to speak truth, State can never make it a matter of Religion. Q.A. How well King Philip loved the Duchess of Braganca, I know not, but this I am sure of, that both Monsieur de Boyses, Monsieur de Bisseaux, and Monsieur de Marais, (Ambassadors with King james my Husband; for the two last French Kings, Henry 4. and Lewes 13.) told me that Phillip's hatred and rage was so great against Don Anthony, that he begged his body which lies in a Coffin of Lead, in the Cordeliers Church at Paris, to be delivered his Ambassadors, and so sent him into Spain; but as they said, these two most Christian Kings their Masters answered Philip, that there was little Religion, less charity, to take up, and remove the ashes of a dead Prince and King, as was Don Anthony, and so his body still remains in Paris. P.H. If Spain were so malicious to a dead Prince, how ought those that are living to beware and take heed of him? H. 8. As a guilty conscience can never find rest, so it may be, that King Philip was afraid of a second Don Anthony, as of a second Sebastian. P.H. But King Philip 3. his son, hath far more reason to fear Don Anthony his two Princely Sons, Don Emanuel, and Don Christopher, and of Don Emanuel, his two generous and Illustrious Sons, Don Maurice and Don Lewes, all four living who are famous, and royal reserved Pieces of Shipwreck of that royal Kingdom and blood of Portugal. Q.M. O but they are poor, and want friends and means to advance their just title to that Crown if they have any. E. 6. Their right and title to Portugal is just, and therefore cannot, and should not dye. Q. E. If the French forces had met mine, at the Groin, Penecha, or Lisbon, or had the Portingalls risen, my Norris, Drake, and noble Essex, in despite of Philip and his forces, had plucked the Crown of Portugal from his head, and seated it on King Anthony's. P.H. No, no. Don Anthony's Sons are beloved of the Nobility of England, France, and the Netherlands, and Don Emanuels' wife, is Sister to that valiant and incomparable Captain Maurice of Nassaw, Prince of Orange. So if fortune smile, and a favourable gale blow, these disinherited Portugal Princes may one day prove pricks and thorns to the sides of Spain. For all Portugal knows, that their veins and hearts stream with pure Portugal blood; yea, with the remainder of the royal blood of that Kingdom; which Philip 3. his last entertainment (together with the Prince his Son) at Lisbon, had almost found true: but that his Majesty departed with as much fear, secrecy, and shame, as he came with resolution, popularity, and glory: In the intetrim, these Portugal Princes remain prodigious and ominous Comments to Spain. Q. M. Did Spain think so, it would quickly make the Princes ride Post into another world. Q.E. If Spain should send these Prince's post into another world, either by the back door of poison, by the wicket of poniard, and not by the great and foredoor of Nature, it would draw the fists of most Christian Princes about King Philip's ears, and make all Portugal solemnize their Funerals with their swords drawn, and their City's gates shut. E. 6. Indeed I have heard that the Commons, and especially the Nobility of Portugal begin extremely to distaste the imperious pride, and ambitious carriage of the Spaniards, and many of them let not to say boldly and publicly, that Philip enjoys the Kingdom by usurpation and not by right. Q. M. Not by right, Why Pope Gregory 14. approved his Title, and confirmed his Conquest of the Kingdom of Portugal. Q.E. So did not our Saviour Christ, whose Successor and Vicar the Pope pretends himself to be. P. H. In the mean time Spain domineers at her Conquest of Portugal, and well she may, for it is one of the fairest flowers of his Garland, and of the richest Diamonds of his crown. H. 8. But the other Kings of Christendom have just cause and reason to grieve and storm hereat, for as it was Portingalls mischance then to fall, and veil Bonnet to Spain, so it may be theirs to morrow, for to a Prince and people so greedy and ambitious of Empire as is Spain, all fish is good that comes to his hook or net. P.H. Thus Spain devours Kingdoms as the Cyclope Polephemus did passengers; for he surpriseth no more than he meets withal, and yet will not Christendom beware of Spain. Italy. H. 8. WE have passed from Navarre, the West Indies, and Portugal, & now let us come to Italy to see how Spain is beloved or feared of the Italians, and how he hath behaved himself there. E. 6. In Italy the King of Spain is nailed to the Pope, as most of the College of Cardinals, and all the Jesuits are to him; yea, he hath the greatest and richest territories thereof, as the Kingdom of Naples, the Duchy of Milan, and the Island of Sicily, and (in a manner, the marquis of Monaco, and Final, the Dukes of Montova, Parma and Urbin; the Princes of Massa, and Piombino, with the free States Genova and Luca do all march under his banner, and call only on his name; yea, he hath so encircled the Pope as he is rather his prisoner, than his spiritual Father, for if his patrimony of St. Peter be the Temple, his Naples and Milan is the Cloister to impale it; so as he hath no impeachment or obstacle from making himself sole Lord of Italy, but the great Duke of Tuscany, and the prudent and potent Seignory of Venice. Q.M. O but the Pope need not fear the King of Spain, for Spain is the Pope's hand, so the Pope is Spain's tongue: For the Catholic King is his Holiness Champion; and his Holiness the King of Spain's Oracle. E. 6. I had thought that the Popes always loved the King of France better than those of Spain. Q. E. O no, there is reason to the contrary, for Spain hath received Rome's hellish and bloody Inquisition, and France is so wise and courageous, as it reiecterh and disdains it. P. H. Nay, there is another reason likewise; for although the former Kings of France were brave and victorious, yet king Lewes that now is fears the Pope and loves him not, whereas king Phill. of Spain loves him, but fears him not. Q.M. If the Popes had not loved Spain, they would never have given him Naples & Sicily, nor permitted him to enjoy that rich & populous Duchy of Milan, which is the patrimony of the house of Orleans, and is now fallen to the right of France. Q.E. Surely there is a great Union between the Popes and the Kings of Spain, for Spain makes the Pope ride on his pontifical Chair, and the Pope makes Spain fly in Phaeton's Chariot, about the four corners of Christendom. P. H. But the Pope loved not Spain so well, to give him either the Marquisat of An●●nitana, or the Duchy of Ferrara, when he begged it of him by his Ambassadors. H. 8. But did Spain seek Ferrara, and the Marca of Ancona of the Pope? Q.M. Yea, and upon good grounds and solid reasons too, for that lay commodious for Milan, and this for Naples, and both would serve as Bridges to pass into that brave and proud State of Venice. The State of Venice. Q.E. NOw you speak of the grave and Noble Venetians; as they have long since pulled off the Mask of Spain's itching desire to deflower their beautiful Adriatic Sea Nymph: so they have resolved no more to trust Spaniards. For of late (notwithstanding their prudent decree to the contrary, grounded upon some private reasons of State) they both think in their hearts, and know in their souls and consciences, that it was only the ambition & double Pistols of Spain, that laid the foundation of the last treacherous and execrable attempt against their City; and consequently against their whole State, notwithstanding that some perfidious Frenchmen (degenerating from the honour of their Country and Ancestors) were corrupted and seduced (by the gold and flattering promises of Spain) to be the chiefest Agents, and forlorn Hope in that damnable attempt and to make this as clear and apparent as the Sun, That Illustrious and wise Senate well knows, that at that very instant, and nick thereof, the Duke of Ossuna (Viceroy of Naples) hovered with his Fleet and Land forces to lay hold, and embrace that occasion. Q.M. Sure Sister you wrong the Duke of Ossuna, and in him king Philip his Master; for I have heard that the said Duke did then Arm upon news of a great Fleet of Galleys coming from Constantinople to Rhodes, upon the irruption of intelligence betwixt the great Turk and the French King, for the eseape of the Polonian Prince Coreski: for the which the Baron of Sancy, the French Ambassador was at least confined, if not imprisoned at Constantinople, and that therefore for the safety of the kingdom of Naples, it behoved the said Duke to fortify his Ports of Apulia, Ottranto, and Calabria, as well with Fleets as Regiments. P.H. The King of Spain's Ministers never want pretexts and evasions for their designs; but if the Duke of Ossuna for affirming hereof, should swear Botta Dios, and par la Sanctissiam Virgina, till he were damned, yet that wise Senate, & especially the Council of Tenn, will never believe him. Q.E. O but Ossuna and the King of Spain his Master, shall give me leave to join in opinion with the prudent Venetians; and therefore I highly praise their foresight, and applaud their generosity, in keeping a brave Naval Army on their Seas, and strong Garrisons in their Castles and Cities, for the security of their State, as also for keeping of their Exchequer rich, and their Arsenal and Magasins abundantly stored and furnished. H. 8. But hath Spain offered the signory of Venice, no other wrongs and offronts but this? Q.E. O yes, for although that prudent State say little, yet they remember, (and will not forget) how busy his Ambassador and Agents were at Rome, to give fire to the quarrel between Pope Paulus Quintus and themselves, about banishing the Jesuits from their State, and for imprisoning the Cannon of Vincensa; as also how readily and earnestly they proffered the Pope, that a great Spanish and Neapolitan Army should instantly enter their State, and put all to fire and sword. P.H. And they likewise remember, how the King of Spain (that thereby his Regiments might fish in troubled waters, & get firm footing in their Country) hath often incensed this Emperor Ferdinand then Duke of Gratz, to invade their frontier Towns in friul, and the Trevisan. Q·E. But Nova Palma Brescia, Pescare, and Verona, are obstacles and stops to the Designs both of the Emperor, and King of Spain; yea that wise State, is so watchful and vigilant, that in time of peace they make their greatest preparations for War: And it were a blessed happiness and a safe felicity, for most Kingdoms and Estates of Christendom, if herein they would emulate and imitate the example of these wise and noble Venetians, which is neither to trust, much less to fear Spain. Q.M. But as wise and as strong as the Venetians are, as their Church and Palace of St. Mark, was not built in a day, so are not all the Designs and resolutions of the King of Spain, and therefore a time may come, but I say no more▪ Q. A. O, I guess at your mind! you would have the State of Venice made a Province to Spain, that thereby he may find a way for his Fleets, to convey his Armies into high and low Germany. And if Spain think so: Contareno the Venetian Ambassador, resident with the King my Husband; and since him Donato likewise told me, that herein Spain is deceived in the Arithmetic of his ambition and usurpation▪ and thus to reckon, is to reckon without his Hostess, and without God. Switzerland. H. 8. But how do the warlike Cantons of Swissers trust the King of Spain? Q. A. As they do the Emperor Ferdinand, his brother Leopaldus, and the rest of the Austrian Princes: for they know his ambition and their malice, and so neither fear him, nor love these. Q. M. But they love the double Pistols of Spain, do they not? Q.E. Yes, but they say the French Crowns of the Sun are far purer and truer gold, and therefore pass currenter with them. E. 6. The Austrian Princes, and the Swissers, I have still heard, are from Father to Son, hereditary and irreconcilable Enemies. P. H. Yea, the Swissers draw good use and benefit hereof; for by this means they live not in security as some other States do; but are still armed and ready to march and follow their Colours. Q.E. But there is no War would be so acceptable and pleasing to them as up to Milan, or down to the free County, Brabant, and Heynault; if France, Savoy, and Venice, would command them the first, and England, France, and Holland, ordain and give way to the second. Q. A. What is not past is yet to come. Q.M. Yea, but the Council of Spain hath policy enough, to insinuate and temporize with all these Princes and States; and so to divert their Designs, and frustrate their resolutions, if they were bend that way. P.H. It hath indeed hitherto proved so by Spain: for their policy and treachery, hath purchased and gotten them more Countries, then either their valour or swords. Q. M. These easy Conquests are still sweet and pleasing to Spain. P. H. Yea, but they are neither honest nor just. E. 6. But hath not Spain cavilled with the Swissers for their confines and limits? Q.E. Yes, two ways, next Germany by Leopaldus, and betwixt Losanna and Grace in the free County by the Archduke Albertus. Q. M. Yea, yea, the King of Spain will angle so long till he take. Q.E. But hath not Spain attempted by his Ambassadors and Agents, to sow dissension and discord amongst these Helvetian Cantons; to oppose them one against the other, and so to debauch and withdraw them first from the French Kings service, and then to his own. P. H. Yes many times, but that trick of Spain is now grown old and threadbare; so as the Swissers vow to remedy the first, and the French Kings to prevent the second. Q.M. But the Catholic King will watch those Swissers a good turn, and if the Ephinaerides of his envy, ambition, and greatness fail him not, either his Spinola, or his Pedro de Toledo, shall one of these days dine with him at Berne, Eriburg, or Soleurre, ere their tablecloths be laid. Q. E. But Sister you are deceived in the Swissers; for their Table clothes are always nailed to their Tables; yea, they have so great a quantity of Swords Pikes, and Muskets in a readiness, to give any enemy of theirs a bloody banquet, that if Philip King of Spain dare assault them, they doubt not but to use him as they have formerly done Philip Duke of Burgundy, whom they overthrew in three several pitched battles, at Granson, Morat, and Nancy, where he loosed his treasure, his men, and his life. The Grisons. H. 8. But how stand the Grisons affected to Spain. E. 6. Spain through the vicinity of Milan, doth so often knock at their doors, that if they keep them not fast shut, they know, or at least fear that he will shortly enter by the Voltaline and Chiavena. Q.M. O though of late they made a show of resistance, yet the gold of Spain, the neighbourhood of Milan, the Fort Fuentes, but chiefly their own credulity and security, hath almost brought them to the King of Spain's▪ lure. Q.E. This people were both warlike and wise. P.H. But Spain will briefly make them fools and cowards if they will hearken to him. Q M. As how Nephew? pray be not bitter against Spain. P. H. Why, first Spain will nuzzle them up in peace and security till matters be ripe, or else he will engender factions, and sow discords among themselves, either for Religion, or rank, or betwixt them and their dearest friends the Swissers; and so when he sees all things ready, and the Iron hot, than he will march, and strike, and not fail to unite and annex the Cantons of the Grisons to Milan, as he hath already done Milan to Spain. H. 8. If the Grisons at any time lose the Swissers friendship, or their own vigilancy and generosity, it will not be long, ere they shake hands with their liberty and lives. Q.M. So Spain hopes, for if war cannot work and effect it, they make no doubt but peace shall. Q.E. If the Grisons harken to the Charms of Spain, they are half lost. Q.M. If they harken not to Spain, they are wholly undone, but if they listen to Spain, all will be well. H. 8. Yea Daughter, I believe for the Spaniards, but not for the Grisons. Q. E. To trust to Spain, is to rely on a broken staff, and to harbour a Serpent in our own bosoms. P.H. To trust to the promises of Spain, is to commit ourselves to the mercy and protection of a Lion who will devour us. Q.M. The Grisons will see, and say the contrary E. 6. So will I say, if I see the contrary; till when I fear the Grisons will buy their peace, as well with tears as blood. Savoy. H. 8. But how doth Savoy brook Spain? for I take it this present Duke Charles Emanuel, married this King Philip 3. his second Sister; the Infanta Katherine Michaela. P.H. Savoy loves Spain, as it hath deserved of it; for the noble and generous Duke thereof cries out; God defend me from such a brother in law as King Philip. Q.M. I believe if the Catholic King offered that Duke any unkind office, it was nothing but because he was so near a neighbour to Geneva, as he and the Pope suspected his Highness would turn Caluinist. Q. E. Alas that good City of Geneva, why all the world knows the Duke's love to it, and its Religion, witness the Baron of Attignac and his Consorts, as also Terraill and Bastide; but if there were once a Spanish Garrison in this City, Savoy would soon know how to distinguish betwixt good and bad neighbours. E. 6. But it is the laughture of the world, to say that Spain hates Savoy because he loves the Religion of Geneva. P. H. Yet this is as true as many other of Spain's colours, pretexts and evasions, when he hath a purpose and plot to usurp. Q.M. Why wherein hath the King of Spain abused, or wronged the Duke of Savoy. P.H. First, in being himself the chief cause and subject, and then making him the Instrument and executioner, to cut off the two noble heads of Byron in Paris, and D' Albigny in Turin. Q.M. Why the Catholic King is the universal King, and therefore it is not strange, if in all Countries of the world, he have his far fetched policies, Agents, and Instruments to make his stratagems and resolutions take effect, for those who are obstacles to his will and pleasure; his verbal friendship shall always prove their real overthrow and subversion; howsoever he and his Ministers pretend, and make show of the contrary. Q.A. Nay, let us leave Byron and D'Albigny in their Graves, for me thinks it is a poor charity to rake up the ashes of the dead. And for our better information, let us take a survey of the courtesy, or rather of the cruelty that Spain hath offered Savoy. E. 6. None knows nor can deliver the particular truth thereof, so well as your Royal Son Prince Henry. Q.M. But I fear my Nephew will be too partial in the delivery hereof, between the King of Spain, and the Duke of Savoy, because I have heard that of the two Princesses their daughters; he preferred that of Savoy before this of Spain. H. 8. No, no; my Nephew Henry is a judicious and just Prince, therefore I know he will not wrong Spain to do right to Savoy. Q. A He resembles King james his Father to well, who will still love the King of Spain, although therein he hate himself, therefore speak on fair Son. P. H When Great Henry of France (my honoured Uncle) made wars upon the present Duke of Savoy for the recovery of his Marquisat of Saluses, than this Philip King of Spain, (under the pretence and show to aid the Duke his brother in Law against the French) sent him many troops and Regiments of Spaniards for the preservation of his State; when the peace being made betwixt the King and the Duke, and the exchange for Saluses, with the Countries of Bresse and Gex ratified and accomplished; These Spanish Regiments being quartered in Carbonieres, Mountemellion, Savillan, Pignoroll and other places of Savoy & Piedmont, they upon no reqvest or assommons made them by the Duke, would depart thence, but being commanded the Contrary by the Count de Fuentes (Viceroy of Milan) as he was from the King his Master from Spain, they peremptorily resolved and vowed to keep firm footing which they along time did, until at last that wise & Valiant Duke being thereunto constrained for the security of his estate, whose emmynent and utter subversion he apparently saw before his eyes, he very nobly cut all their throats. H. 8. Believe me his Highness of Savoy did well, for it was an act most worthy of his judgement and generosity. Q M. But the King of Spain, the Dukes of Lerma Pastrama, Denia, Albecurque, Tolleao, and all the Counsel of war of Spain, vow to have their revenge of this affront. Q. E. Spain hath done his worst to Savoy already, for as long as France loves Savoy, Savoy needs not fear Spain; at least mine Authors tell me so, who are that famous Captain, the Duke of Dedis. guieres, his valiant son De Crequy; & noble Du Terms. Q. A. Though this one wrong, be one too many, yet is these all the wrongs that this King of Spain hath offered this Duke of Savoy. P. H. No Madam, for although the Duke wink, and seems (with father Aubigny) to have the art of forgettfullness; yet he well remembers, how Don juan de Taxis Spain's Ambassador in France) told Lullins, Arconas, and Alimes, his Highness' Ambassadors at Lions, that the King his master would Contribute towards the Exchange of the marquisat of Saluces, conditionally it remained on that side the Alps from the French; and since how his Catholic Majesty hath performed nothing. He remembers Spain's Plot upon his Castle of Nice (the key not only of his Countries, but of Italy) when his Spanish Galleys lay at Villa franca to bereave him of his Children, He remembers how the Spanish Cardynalls oppose his precedency at Rome, with the Duke of Florence, and how the Catholic King, or his Viceroy of Milan for him; was the match and Incendiary to set fire 'twixt the Duke of Mantova & him, for the Marquisate of Montferrad. Q. E. We may see what a kind brother in Law the King of Spain is, and what it is to build upon his affiance, afinity, promises and assistance. P. H. I am glad the Duke of Savoy, and the Princes his children have now purchased the length of Spain's foot. E. 6. They have reason to have it, for they were all enforced to take it with their swords, Pikes, and Lances, at Cassall●, Verceile and other where's. Q. A. As long as Savoy loves not Spain, The Marquis of Lullius and Monseur De Gabaleon told me, it needs not fear it. Q. M. O but as long as Spain Knocks at the gates of Savoy and Piedmond he may at last enter. Q. E. Savoy hath reason to enter Milan, not Spain Savoy. Q. M. But time and the policy and Swords of Spain cut all donations and rights in pieces. P. H. Savoy hath had warnings enough to beware of Spain and therefore as I ever loved that generous Duke, so I hope that he and the Illustryous & valiant Princes, his Sons, will never want arms of steel, and hearts of Diamonds to our brave Spain who with such ambition and malice seeks to out brave it. France. H. 8. But what says France of Spain. Q. M. My honoured father all the world knows that Spain hath ever loved France well. Q. E. Yea too too well, and so well as France will never love Spain, much less trust it in requital. Q M. Why hath not Spain reason to balance and counterpoise the power and greatness of France. P. H. Yea, but not to seek to make that famous & flourishing Kingdom become a Province to Spain. Q. M. Spain never wished it, much less attempted it. Q. E. Years, more often than France hath Provinces, or Spain Cities. P. H. Why? who was the Author and Protector of the League, but first Spain, than the Pope, and next the Devil. Q. M. O that was only to preserve Catholics, and the Catholic Religion, and to exterminate and root out Heretics, and was not this well done of the King of Spain, sith he is the Catholic King. E. 6. Nay, now the least child in France knows that Religion was only the pretext, but Empire and Dominion the object of that League. How else dared Mendoza (Spain's Ambassador in Paris seek the Crown of France for the Infanta of Spain, or how else dared the Jesuits his ministers, in their seditious Sermons, and pernicious Pamphlets advance her right to the Crown and Kingdom, when God and the world knows she had none to it. Q. M. Why, it was when God had caused that good Friar james Clement, to kill that bad King Henry the third at Saint Clou, and when indeed that Kingdom was without a head, and then the King of Spain had reason to advance his Daughter's Title to France, in right of her mother Elizabeth, (that Queen of Peace) notwithstanding the fundamental power of the Salic Law to the contrary. H. 8. You are deceived daughter, for it was a good King, and a bade Friar (or rather a Devil in a Friar's weed) to set hands on the Lords anointed, but this arrow came out of the quiver of Spain, and Hell, for that bloody and execrable murder was no sooner perpetrated, but then Instantly followed the proposition of the Infantaes Title to France, which apparently makes the murder to be Spain's. Q.M. It was the Dukes of Mayene, Mercuaeur who drew the King of Spain to assist the League, and in it France. Q. E. No, No, Contrariwise it was the King of Spain, that debouchd and drew these two Dukes, and with them almost all the Nobility to forge and contrive this League, and in it to ruin France: for already France was almost Spain, and the Infanta had undoubtedly borne the Crown: If Great Henry his Victorious sword had not pulled off Spain's mask, and so cut her Title and its pretences in pieces. Q. M. But see the equity and justice of King Phillipe, for when Henry that Heretic King came to the Crown, he restored him Calais, dourlan's, Valencienes, Blavet, and all other towns and Castles which he had formerly won and Conquered in France. P. H. But all this was not worthy thanks, for Phillipe alone restored that which he could not, nor dared not to Keep. Q. M. Nay, observe farther how religious King Philip was (in imitation of King Agesilaus) for he kept his Faith inviolable towards Henry IIII although he were an heretic King. P. H. Nay observe how irreligiously and treacherous King Philip was to King Henry 4. (in imitation of Artaxerxes, the son of Xerxes) for he violated his faith and Friendship towards him, in debaushing of Byron Mirargues, Loste, whose promises and gold made them Traitors to their King and Country. E. 6. Surely I think it is incident, and I fear it will prove hereditary to the Kings of Spain to conquer more by treachery then by the sword. Q. E. But had Great Henry lived, he would have requited, these courses of Spain, as also that of Guignard and Chastell; who (although the report run otherwise) had their greatest light and encouragement from beyond the Pyreene mountains; for to speak truth he in heart could never be drawn to love Spain. P. H. Yea, that Spain knew full well, for when the French Jesuits his Ministers had unlocked the mystery they like bloody Schoolmasters, so devilishly instructed and fortified that monster of men Ravilliack (their execrable and damnable desciple) that he soon sent him hither in a bloody Coffin. Q.M. But you will not say that the King of Spain was accessary to Henry 4. his murder. P. H. No, but I will say that if the truth were known, the opening of that vein would make many great Birds, yea and many learned ones too, bleed themselves to death, and peradventure the wounds and scars thereof, would bleed an hundred years hence. Q. A. The Marshal of Laverdin whistered me a word concerning this, which I shall never forget, only he requested my secrecy therein: so the King of Spain's Larma, and the Queen Mother of France her D' Anchre, his Mariana, and her Cotton shall give me leave to think. Q. M. Questionless it were the sins of that King, and the finger of Heaven that cut off the thread of his life. Q. E. Questionless you are deceived Sister, for it were the sins of France who made the Knife, and the treasons of Spain and Rome which made that Parricide Ravilliack perform. H. 8. Well, in despite of Rome, Spain and Hell, that victorious and glorious King is wasted hither in triumph, therefore leave we him with God, and God with him, and let us see since his deplorable death, how kind K. Philip of Spain hath been to King Lewes his Son. Q. M. So kind that he hath matched King Lewis to his eldest Daughter, the Ifanta Anna; and his eldest Son, Prince Phil. to the Eldest Princess of France, Madam Elizabeth, that now these two mighty Kingdoms and Houses seem to be but one. Q. E. This is fair to the eye of the world, but it will be excellent if the End of these matches prove fortunate for France. H. 8. Who were the Matchmakers? P. H. S. P. Q. S. or to be better understood, Spain, Pope and Queen Regent. Q.E. If King Philip of Spain be Heir as well to his Father's Ambition as to his Kingdoms, he will love France so well as to push and fish for it. P. H. What force could never effect, he hopes those Marriages now will. E. 6. Indeed the Snake lurks under the fairest green leaves, and the Aspik under the purest and sweetest Roses. Q. E. No Kings of the world know better how to dissemble then the Catholic Kings. P. H. You speak Scripture, not tradition. Q.M. And you Tradition not Scripture. H. 8. But what entertainment had the Infanta of Spain in France? P. H Noble, Royal, Glorious. E. 6. What train of Spaniards brought she with her into France. P. H. A very great train, for Monsieur de Marais (the French Ambassador with the King my Father) told me that Monsieur de Bonelle (Master of the Ceremonies to the French King) reported, that when the first of them were entering Paris at St. jaques Gate, that the last were but coming down the Pyrene Mountains. Q. A. But what did all this rabble of Spaniards do in France? P. H. To speak truth, they fell presently to screwing and working themselves into the State, by begging and buying of Offices, Places, Pensions, and governments, both in Church and Commonweal, and by making Pensioners for Spain, and consequently a bridge and passage for the King their Master to enter. H. 8. But how did the Parliaments, the Privy Council, and the Nobility of France brook and digest this? Q E. Yea, that is a question of State indeed. P. H. As for the Parliaments, and Privy Council, many of them are so Jesuitized, as they are Spaniards in heart, though French in tongue, and therefore they were so far from preventing, as they gave way to it, only for the Princes and Nobility (some few excepted) they (resembling themselves) vowed and swore, that their swords should cut the Pens and Tongues in pieces of any Spaniard whatsoever, that dared propose or attempt it, for they spoke aloud and affirmed, the Florentines had taught them wit. E. 6. A brave resolution of the French Nobility; for the greatest of a State have always the greatest interest in the State; those Princes and Nobles are therefore highly to be applauded and praised: and such of the Privy Council and Parliament who tacitly are delinquents, and traitors to their Prince and Country, deserve to be found out, arraigned, and sacrificed to the good of the Commonweal, either with a sword, or a halter. Q. M. But, what said the Clergy of France to this? Q. E. Sister, it is to be feared, as you wish & desire. P. H. Why they out of passionate zeal, more than of zealous and solid judgement, approve of any Match for their King, so it be not with a Protestant, and yet of none so well as of this with Spain; Demand their reason and they will answer you (with as much vehemency as ignorance) that the King of Spain is the Catholic King, and if you come further to particularise, they reply, that their Cardinals (who indeed are only the Pope's Creatures) shall deliver more at the estates General: So the Clergy bade the Spaniards welcome into France. Q. E. But where are the Firebrands and Incendiaries of the State, the French Jesuits, who indeed are the Fistulas and Botches of a State, what entertainment gave they to the young Queen and her Spaniards? P. H. Surely Aunt, they crouched very low to the Queen; but in Cottons absence Arnoux and Berrulla (their Tongue and Ear) whispered so secretly to her Majesty, that I could neither gather nor understand what they said, but I guest at it; only they gave fair words and actions to all the Spaniards in general; and to the nobler and wiser sort of them in particular, they engaged themselves to keep curious correspondence with the Catholic King, to whom they affirmed and swore by their Semi-God, and sole Patron Ignatius Loyola, they would bear true observance, as the Marigold doth to the Sun. Q. A. Are not these two Jesuits the French Kings ordinary Preachers, and yet dare they do it? Q. E. Although Berrulla be the Father of the Oratory, yet he is in heart and soul a jesuit, and Arnoux is the Arch-Iesuite of France, and the King's Confessor, and yet they dare, and will do it. H. 8. But how did the Queen Regent entertain the Spaniards: P. H. Courteously and Nobly, because she made the Match; which since she hath repent tho; yea and the Duke of Mayene too, who concluded & finished it: And so did Villeroy likewise, although it were to late. But Sillery and Du Vair love Spain so well, as their courages are so masculine, that though they see their errors in persuading these Matches, yet they rather persist then acknowledge it, for like good clear-sighted Statesmen, they have wit enough to bear up with the time, for otherwise they know the times will not bear them up. Q. M. But how did the Commons of France entertain the Spaniards? Q. E. Truly I think they will never be persuaded to like the fashion of the little Hat, and great set Ruff. Q. A. Son Henry, pray answer Queen Mary. P. H. If we may judge of Hercules by his foot, so we then may of France, by those of Paris) which is the eye, the heart, the soul thereof (where the Citizens in all streets, and especially the Lakeyes at the Lourre gate, and the new bridge, still salute the Spaniards as they pass by, by these courteous Epithets, Borachio, Pantalones', and Bouriques. H. 8. How long remained all these Spaniards in France? Q. M. So long I warrant you, until they did all their King's business, and their own too before they departed. P. H. In truth so long, till all France was weary, and distasted of them and their proceedings, yea, so many years, that at last the King and Council were in a manner constrained to send them away by an Edict, as they themselves, not many years since, did the Moors. Q. M. The banishing of the Moors was a good and wholesome counsel of Spain. Q. E. And I assure you Sister the sending home of the Spaniards was an excellent one of France, for upon the matter, they were but spies, moths and drones, and would have proved so to France if they had continued there longer. E. 6. But were they all sent home, and none left at the Court of France to give, and receive packets to and fro for the jesuits, the King of Spain's Factors and Agents. Q. E. O, no assure yourself, for the Council of Spain is too wise to commit so gross and palpable an error of State. P. H. Therefore to cast the thicker mist, and to put the better varnish on the business, The Countess De la Tour was left there with the title of governess to the young Queen, and there is as much correspondency betwixt her and Don Ferdinand de Geron (the Ambassador of Spain) as there is betwixt him and the French Jesuits. Q. A. Thus Spain leaves always a Sting behind him, and I fear France will in the end find it so. Q. M. Whereon is your suspicion, and fear grounded? Q. A. Upon the apparent symptoms of the Lethargy, Fever, or Consumption of France. E. 6. You say right Madam, and the Noblest and truest hearted Frenchmen participate of your apprehension; For the Jesuits (being the Pope's Factors, and the King of Spain's Oracles and Agents) have already corrupted the Parliaments and Privy Council, who should be her Ilium & Acrocorynth. They have undermined and ruinated the Sorbone, heretofore her Palladium, once the Queen of Universities: Who now as a mournful Widow, sits with her hair dandling about her ears, and her tears trickling down her cheeks, living only in her shadow or Ghost, or rather in her ruins; for her Genius and Soul, hath already made a transmigration to Clermont-House; Yea, and to speak true French, in our English tongue, they by their devilish Aphorisms and bloody positions (under a false & hypocritical show of Learning and Piety) do poison and corrupt the Youth and prime Wits of France, as the jews did the Springs and Fountains in England. Q. E. Also, the Clergy of France, degenerates from its Pristine candour and zeal to the good of France, and the glory of the French Church, for they receive Laws from the Pope's Nuncio and the Jesuits, to whom they should give them. How else at the last general Estates of Paris, and the assembly of Notables at Roven? were they so unwise, dishonest and cowardly, to refer themselves to the two Cardinals Perron and Gondye? who like good Cardinals, but bad Frenchmen (having only their Bodies in France, but their Hearts at Rome) in thankfulness to the Pope for their red Hats, forgot themselves and their allegiance so much, as to prostitute and debase that famous Crown and flourishing Kingdom of France, to be dependant to Rome in Temporal matters, notwithstanding the Pragmatic Sanction, and the prerogatives of the Crown & Church of France, to the contrary; whereat the Pope's Nuncio at Paris laughed with open mouth: So did the College of Cardinals, and the Pope himself at Rome; and likewise the Catholic King in Spain, with all that huge rabble of Jesuits, whiles all the Kings, Sovereign Princes, and Free Estates of Europe (Spain and Italy excepted) grieved and lamented at it, with as much shame as wonder. E. 6. Indeed these are two main points & reasons, that the greatness and generosity of France declines, and that Rome and Spain will shortly shuffle the Cards so well, as it must needs be made a Province to Spain; for they both have consulted and find, that what could not be effected during the Reign of old Henry, may in these of young King Lewes his Son. P. H. It is not impossible, rather likely, for France abounds in a monstrous height of Pride and Sin, And the old Clergy of France admit of so many new orders of Friars and Nuns, that almost all is out of order; and the seventeen Millions which the Duke of Suilly left by account to the Queen Regent, is all long since spent, and twice seventeen more. So as although the Polleta be still on foot, Monopolies never so rife, the Finnances, or Exchequer drawn dry, and exhausted; yet the King is extremely in debt to his Nobility and Pensioners; and is not this Music for the King of Spain? H. 8. Had Great Henry lived, he would have remedied and prevented these calamities. Q. A. But his Son King Lewes is not so happy to do it, no nor his Creator, the Duke of Luynes so discreet and honest to advise and council him thereunto. P. H. The neglect thereof may make one, or both of them to repent it, and peradventure the Kingdom too; for already the Commons grieve hereat, and the Nobility would, but cannot remedy it. Q. M. Spain loves France, therefore France need not fear Spain. P. H. The Panther's skin is fair, yet his friendship is fatal, and his breath infectious. Q. E. Indeed if France loved not Spain, it need not fear it. Q. M. King Philip loves King Lewes dear. Q. A. Not half so well as he loves his Kingdom of France. Q. E. In truth France hath reason to have a vigilant eye o'er Spain, for as long as she sleeps in her bed of pleasure and security, perhaps one of these days, Spain's Ambition may awake her with Drum, Trumpet, and Cannon. P. H. O no, not as yet, for if the King of Spain were so ill advised, his Council is not; for they like old experienced Foxes; will never permit him to discover himself, much less his Resolutions, and least of all his Ambition and sword, until the Sun hath attained the Meridian. Q. M. I know not what my Nephew means by this Mathematical Riddle. Q. E. I was never greatly skilled in the Mathematics, and yet consuming my Youth, Years, and Cares for England, I have reason to understand his knowledge. Wherefore Sister, sith he is a Noble and famous Prince, let us hear him, for he hath some mystery to reveal 'twixt France and Spain. Q. M. He loves France, and hates Spain, and which is worse, he was an Heretic, therefore his tongue can make no Spherall Melody. E. 6. But his Heresy hath brought him hither to Heaven tho, and he is a famous and Noble Prince: therefore Cousin Wales speak on, of France and Spain, for now we are all resolved to hear you. Q. E. I gave him my Father's name, and he inheriteth my resolution and courage, and the King his Father's wisdom, therefore he can neither flatter nor dissemble. Q. A. Speak on Henry. P. H. Know all men by these Presents, that if Spain did see the Heart and Bowels of France weltering in its blood, and flaming in the fire of an intestine Civill-warre, if it did see the Princes banded against the King, or the King against the Protestants, these riffeling of the Lovare, and of Paris, and his Majesty beseiging of Rochel, Sancerre, Sedan, Nismes, or Saumury, or denouncing War to all those of that Religion. If it did see sixteen Parisian Tribunes, carrying away the Court of Parliament prisoners to the Bastille, and Chastellets the rebellious Barycadoes, and a bloody Massacre in Paris; and generally in all the Cities of the Kingdom, if he did see some Princes of the blood (or two great Dukes, as were Du Mayene and Merury) Captivating and Deboshing the obedience and affections of the French Nobility, Clergy and Commons, and covering their pernicious Designs and treacherous attempts, under the Cloak of the holy League; If it did see Calais, Dourlaus, Amiens, Montdidier, Valencienes, Blavet, and Croyden, or other strong Cities; or Forts of France, bearing out the red ragged Cross in stead of the three yellow Flower Deluces, and a second Mendoza for his Ambassador, sat as premier Precedent, and Oracle in the Lovare, Town-house and Parliament, That then Philip the III. of Spain loves his Son in Law Lewes the thirteen of France so well, that he would use him as King Philip the second had an eager desire, and had almost done great Henry his Father. Q. M. Why how was that? P. H. Right as my Godmother Queen Elizabeth hath formerly told you, nothing but to deprive him of his Kingdom. E. 6. It were better that all the Jesuits were hanged, and the young Queen of France sent home to Spain, with her Portion, to the King her Father. Q. E. But we see strange alterations in the Court of France, for some dare, but will not, and others would, but dare not inform the King hereof. Q. A. France hath reason, yea it it high time for her to look to herself, for the Agents, jesuits, and double Pistols of Spain are busy, and their Swords and Pikes are not Idle. For whiles France plays the Theory, Spain plays the Practic. Of the Netherlands. H. 8. How doth Spain and the Netherlands agree. E. 6. Spain hath so long enured and enforced the Hollanders to blood and wars, as now at Sea and Land they are become such brave Soldiers and Mariners, as they fear not Spain, and to love Spaniards they vow 'tis impossible, much less to obey them. Q. M. It is pity that King Philip the second ended not the chastising and Conquest of these Heretic Hollanders, ere King Philip the third began it, or that he cannot reduce them to obedience, by ending these wars with more fortunacie, and less danger and damage. Q. E. Nay Sister, it is pity that these two Kings of Spain, and the Archduke Albertus and Isabel, have from time to time been so ambitious, inhuman, cruel, and revengeful, to drown the face of the Netherlands with many deluges of blood, in seeking to preserve their liberty, lives, and Consciences from the cruel Tyranny and Inquisition of Spain. P. H. Indeed for this forty years the Netherlands hath been the School and Theatre of Mars, whereon there hath been more brave Soldiers and renowned Captains slain, then in any Country of the world, or in many precedent Ages; and yet all this blood is not capable to quench Spain's Ambition and Tyranny in seeking to devour those Provinces. Q. A. Hath not Spain assaulted the Netherlands as well by Treachery as Hostility? Q. E. Yes, witness the damnable Villain Gerrard, who long since murdered William the famous Prince of Orange, their Lieutenant General, and father to Maurice that valiant and incomparable Captain, who now succeeds him in his Principality. Q. M. O Sister, cast not so base an aspersion on King Philip my Husband, to affirm he was accessary to the murder of William Prince of Orange, much less authorised or commanded it. P. H. All the Ocean between Holland and Spain, cannot wash off that Murder from your Husband King Philip, for his proscription to murder him bears it, and his Lieutenant the Duke of Parma commanded the Count Assonuille to deal with Gerrard about this murder, who promised him twentyfive thousand Crowns to effect it, which, O grief to speak it, he did. E. 6. But his valiant Son hath long since had revenge for the death of his Father. Q. A. If he have not, he resolves to have it. H. 8. But hath not Spain since attempted, or broached any other Treason towards the Hollanders? P. H. O yes very lately, for whilst Spain is Spain, Holland will never forget how near he was to have extinguished her liberty, and surprised their State, by infecting and corrupting their Secretary Barnevelt, a man of so profound wit, and deep judgement and experience in matters of State, as he was not only the Oracle of the Netherlands, but the Ornament and Wonder of Europe, yea of his time. Q. E. See, see the fruits of Spain's Gold, and the effects of his boundless Ambition, for it is a common custom with him, if not by the main, yet surely by the buy, to break the neck of great Princes, and free Estates, public Ministers, whether they are great Soldiers or great Statesmen, or both. Q. A. Yea, the Web of this Treason was so cunningly woven, and so subtly and finely spun, as if the Netherlands had not broken Barnevelts neck, he long ere this had assuredly broken the neck both of their liberty and State. Q. M. Well Barnavelt is gone, and now Spain needs not fear his policy. P. H. Nay, Barnavelt being dead, and Maurice that famous Prince of Orange living, Holland need not fear either the treachery, or force of Spain. H. 8. But Nephew, I hear that the United Provinces of the Low-Countries will this Spring have Wars with Spain, for their Peace is near expired and ended. P. H. A brave, noble, and wise resolution of theirs. E. 6. Heretofore England taught the Hollanders wit and valour, and now they resolve to show England the way to those two Virtues. Q. M. But the Gold and Silver of Spain will prevail against them, and weigh them down. P. H. But the Hollanders had Ships enough of their own, and Gold, Silver, and Men from England, therefore they disdain to fear Spain, nay, rather they vow before the next Summer to make Spain fear them. H. 8. See, see, a handful of men dare attempt that against Spain, which Great Britain's huge infinity will not. Q. E. And yet their cause and reason is England's, viz. their Consciences, Lives, and Countries. Q. A. Pray God England and France interpose not to cross the Wars, and seek to conclude a Peace betwixt Holland and Spain. E. 6. But the Hollanders are resolved to make King james a large Offer, to protect them against Spain. Q. M. But King james loves Spain too well, and therefore will not hearken to, or regard their proffer, for his Majesty is resolved not to protect them. P. H. The more is the pity. Q. E. The more my grief. Q. M. And without grief or pity, the more is my joy. Q. E. I protected the Netherlands in despite of Spain. E 6. But Spain went near by your Leicester, to betray both you and them. H. 8. If King james would now protect the Netherlands, how easily might he refetch back Flushing, the Brill, and the Ramekins? E. 6. Nay, how easily did his Majesty depart with them to the Netherlands? P. H. It infinitely rejoiceth me to understand the Hollanders brave resolution and forwardness to have wars with Spain. Q. M. But there is a secret trick to cool their courages which they least think of. H. 8. As how Daughter? Q. M. Why, to Pistol this Prince of Orange, as they did his Father. Q▪ E. Heaven forbid it. P. H. God defend it. Q. M. Why 'tis but one for another; for he knowing Barnavelt a Traitor to his Country because a Pensioner to Spain, caused the Lords States, to put him to death, why then (in exchange and requital) should not a Pensioner of Spain either poison, or pistol the Prince of Orange? E. 6. These diabolical resolutions and bloody Positions come from Hell. Q. E. And thither they go that profess and practise them. Q. M. The King of Spain is too religious to authorize so execrable a Murder. Q. E. But the Pope as holy as he is will pardon it, and yet the world, I hope, knows, that the K. of Spain cannot be so religious as his Holiness. Q. A. It were good then for Holland to be careful of their Prince of Orange his life; as all the World knows his Excellency is of their safety and preservations. P. H. And it will likewise behoove them to observe withal (as I hope they do) how subtly and treacherously Spinola takes their neighbour Towns for the Emperor, and keeps them for the King of Spain his Master. E. 6. And if the Wars go on 'twixt Holland and Spain; as I hope they will, It will be needful for Spain to have a special care of his West-Indies from the Holland Fleets. H. 8. Wherefore only Spain's West-Indies, or rather why not all the Worlds West-Indies; sigh their red and white earth sets all the World on fire and in Combustion. Q. A. Surely, ere this Summer pass, and the next appear, the Hollanders vow to have a heave at them. Q. M. Nay, I hope the contrary, for the West-Indies is the main & only prop of Spain, which if once found out, and taken away from them, will quickly make the greatness of his Ambition and Empire to totter. P. H. Till when, all other Kingdoms and Estates of Christendom may think themselves exempt from Spain's fear, but shall never be from his danger. Q. E. This Holland perfectly and apparently knows, and it were a great happiness for the rest of Europe, if they would herein imitate their Generosity, Valour and wisdom, who stand on their Guards with their swords drawn, and their match lighted ready to give fire; as being constantly and virtuously resolved neither to love, trust, nor fear Spain. ENGLAND. H. 8. But now leave we all other Countries, and come we to England, from whence being descended, we by the Laws of Nature, are eternally obliged to honour and love it; yea to prefer it and its prosperity and glory to all other Countries of the world; wherefore let us see Spain's Ambition and Envy towards it; and how he hath from time to time borne himself to the English. Q. M. There is no Kingdom in the world, that Spain's loves better than England. Q. E. Nor no people under the Sun that it hates more than Englishmen. E. 6. For Peter King of Castille most ingratefully and basely abused our famous and generous Edward the Black Prince, (the Ornament of Arms, the Glory of England, and the Honour of the World) and his whole Army in Spain, after that he had inthronised & seated the said Peter in his Kingdom, and with his Victorious Arms expelled Henry the Bastard, who Usurped it. Q. M. If Spain had not loved England and Englishmen, King Philip would never have married me. Q. E. He loved you well Sister, but your Kingdom far better, for you were the Object of his zeal, but England that of his Ambition. H. 8. But Elizabeth, he hated you more than ever he loved Mary. Q. E. And yet I dare truly affirm, that King Philip loved my Kingdom far more than ever he hated my Person. H. 8. To speak truth Daughter, he neither loved you, nor Mary his wife and Queen, but only England. P. H. And I have heard that if he had never married my Aunt Mary, she had never lost Calais▪ nor consequently, England, France. E. 6. Though that Match were unfortunate to England in the loss of Calais, yet it was fortunate in that Philip and Mary had no Children. Q. M. If we had had any Males, England had been long since a Province to Spain. Q. E. God knew so much, and therefore prevented it, wherein I bless his Mercy and Providence, as also your sterility. P. H. Aunt, and I your resolution in speaking it. Q. M. The Kings of Spain are the greatest and most potent Kings of the World. Q. E. Yea, in Ambition and ostentation, but not in power, for I proved it not so, I found it not so, I left it not so. P. H. You Madam found War with Spain surer and safer than Peace. Q. E. Yea, far more safer, and far more profitable too for England. Q. A. Then I wonder that King james my Husband so delights and drowns himself in his Peace with Spain. Q. M. O but Spain finds both policy and reason enough to lull King james a sleep in the Cradle of Peace and Security. Q. E▪ I never feared Spain less th●n when I loved it not, nor more than when it made greatest show to love me. P. H. And the King my Father never loved it more, than now when he fears it. E. 6. But is it possible King james fears Spain? P. H. It seems so, for else he would never love it so excessively. Q. E. Sir Nicholas Bacon my Chancellor on his Deathbed wrote me a Letter, that the Glory and Conservation of England consisted in holding Spain at Rapier's point; and will not his Son Sir Francies, the now Chancellor tell his Master so much? P. H. O no, he is otherwise employed. H. 8. But tell me Daughter, was Spain ever treacherous to your Person? Q. E. Almost every year Spain hatched me a new Treason, witness Pa●y, Babbington, Williams, Yeorke, Lopez, and infinite others, who sought to lay violent hands on my Person and Life, but that God in his infinite mercy and providence still protected and defended me, to their own confusion. P. H. But King Philip II. chiefly discovered his love to England, in the treacherous attempt of his huge Armado of 88 (termed by the Pope, in a bravery) The Invincible Fleet,) at what time his ambition and greedy desire of Usurpation, so far oreswayd him and his Council, as he thought to have made an absolute Conquest of England; but he was deceived of his hopes; for God looked on England with his indulgent eye of pity and compassion, and on that great and mighty Naval Army with contempt and detestation. Q. E. Yea, God was so gracious to England, and so merciful to me, as not only my Ships and People, but the Winds and Waves fought for my defence, and that of my Country, against the pride and malice of Spain, who grew mad with anger, and pale with grief, to see this his great and warlike Armado beaten, foiled, and confounded, in the midst of their glory and ambition. E. 6. But Sister, was this all Spain's malice and treachery towards You and your State? Q. E. No, no, for I had forgotten how before that, his Majesty in Spain and his Lieutenant the Duke of Alva in Flanders embarged and confisked a world of Goods and Ships that belonged to my Subjects, contrary to all Laws of Conscience and Nations. P. H. And no other. Q. E. Yes, King Philip begged my Kingdom of Ireland of the Pope, and so assisted the Rebels, and made a confederacy with them for the Conquest thereof from me, bringing in first Stukley, than Don juan of Aquilla, into that Kingdom to the same effect: But Heaven always laughed at their ambition, usurpation, and treachery, which still proved as vain, as impious and unjust. P. H. And yet see the justice of the cause, and the equity of your Arms; for Essex landed at Calais, and in despite of Spain took and rifled it, beating and sinking their best and greatest Ships, in a manner without any show of defence or resistance. Q. M. O but now the Times are altered and changed, for then Spain was poor and England rich, and now England is poor and Spain rich: Likewise Spain's Wars, parsimony, and frugality, makes his Men Soldiers; and our Peace, pride, and superfluity, hath made our Soldiers either Courtiers or Cowards. H. 8. France knew that I found Soldiers in England when I took Tourney and Boulogne. Q E. And Spain felt that English were Soldiers, when my Drake beat them on my Seas, and Coast in 88 my Norris at Croyden in 94 my Essex at Calez in 96. and my Montioy at Kingsale in 1600. Q. M. But then England was delighted in Combats, Wars and Victories, and now in Stageplays, Masks, Revels and Carousing, so as their courages are become as rusty as their Swords and Muskets, which serve to grace the walls, and not the fields, except in poor Musters, and sleight Traynings, and that but once a year, which upon the whole, is more for ostentation then Service: Moreover, than England's navy-royal could give a law to the Ocean, and now time and negligence hath almost made all these Ships unserviceable, who lie rotting at Chatam and Rochester. E. 6. here Queen Mary hath reason, for now she is in the truth. Q. E. What (Sister and Brother) my Royal Navy lie rotting, who are the Bulwarks and Walls of England, and when I left them were capable to beat the power and pride of Spain to shivers; O this grieves me! but I believe not that my wise and prudent Successor King james will suffer or permit it, I pray, Godson and Nephew Prince Henry, resolve me hereof. P. H. Indeed Madam I confess I have seen so much myself, when God knows I grieved to see it; neither did I fail to put the King my Father often in remembrance thereof; and his Majesty still promised me to new build and repair that Royal Fleet, to which number I added my Prince-Royall, a Ship, who had she many fellows, England needed not fear all the Fleets of the World; but although the old Lord Admiral hath not been careful for the preservation of the Navy, yet the new one is. H. 8. If he be not, I grieve for the Fleet. Q. E. And I lament it. E. 6. And I pity it. Q. A. And I bewail it. Q. M. And not to dissemble, both Gondomar, King Philip his Master, the Pope, myself, and all the Roman Catholics of England rejoice hereat, for the Impotency and destruction of this Royal Navy, is the Harbinger to prepare the way, and a step for King Philip to mount the Throne of Estate, to pluck off King james his Crown, and to place and settle it on his own head. Q. E. O my Ships, my Ships: God knows they were still dear to me, because still necessary to England. Where is my Drake, where my Cumberland, my Forbisher, my Grinuille, my Cavendish, my Hawkins, my Rauleigh, and the rest; Alas, they want me, and King james and England wants them; for when they lived, and I reigned, our Valour could stop the Progression of Spain; Yea, my Ships domineered in his Seas and Ports, and their Clouds of smoke and fire, with their Peals of Thunder, struck such amazement to the hearts, and terror to the courages of Castille and her faint-hearted castilians, that every Spanish Bird kept his own Nest, not powerful enough to defend themselves, much less to offend any, and least of all England, who was then in her Triumphs, in her lustre, in her glory. P. H. Grieve no more dear Aunt for the Navy Royal of England; for although Nottingham were remiss and careless herein, yet brave Buckingham hath of late years set a new face on that Fleet; and makes it not only his delight, but his glory to re-edify and reform them; yea there is not a year passes him, but he brings some new forth from their Dockes, and puts in other old, although Cranfield (resembling himself) bite his lips at the Charge thereof, because he affirms he hath other occasions to disburse, and pay away the King's Treasure. Q. E. Nephew Wales, I am glad to hear that Buckingham is so careful of England's Fleet-Royall, and in very deed, his Ambition, Care, and Zeal herein, will infallibly purchase him much love and honour of the whole Kingdom, especially if he continue it. H. 8. Me thinks Scotland annexed and united to England, should make it far the stronger. Q. E. But how can King james say England and Scotland is strong, when he fears the power of Spain, and will not know or believe his own. E. 6. Yea, it were much honour to the King, and happiness to his Kingdom and Subjects, if in any point (knowing the weakness thereof) he would fortify and reform it. Q. A. And it were a great happiness for most Kingdoms and free Estates of Europe, if they would follow the Examples of the Venetians and Hollanders, who will neither trust, nor love, much less, fear Spain. P. H. And among the rest, if England would follow it, they should draw security out of danger, whereas now her apparent danger is drawn and derived from her apparent security. Q. A. O that the King my Husband would think hereof. P. H. O that the King my Father would make use hereof. Q E. O that King james my Heir and Successor would not hearken or believe the contrary hereof. H. 8. But this were the way to have Wars with Spain, and King james I understand, is resolved to live and dye in peace with them. Q. M. War cannot be bought at a cheap rate. Q. E. But it is pity that peace should be bought at too dear and dishonourable a rate. P. H. I have always been informed that England still gets by her Wars with Spain. Q. E. I got by my Wars with Spain, and Spain lost by it. P. H. My Father and his Subjects lose by his Peace with Spain, and Spain gets by it. Q. M. When England hath lost herself she can lose no more. Q. E. But Sister, your death was the death of the Pope's hopes, and of Spain's pretences to England. P. H. But they both seem to revive and bud forth afresh, if the Match between my noble Brother P. Charles, and the Infanta of Spain take effect. Q. A. May Heaven deny the first, and the King your Father never consent to the second. Q. E. So shall Spain ever fear England, but never England Spain. Q. M. But I hope the contrary; for in these days the King of Spain's Gold and his Ambassador Count Gondomar act wonders in England. H. 8. Hath Gondomar propounded this match to King james? P. H. O long since, and he hath vowed to wear out his red leather Coach, and green buckram Litter, but he will see an end of it this Parliament. Q. A. I thought indeed it was not for nothing, that he makes Aesop's Fables his daily pocket guest. E. 6. How doth King james relish this match. Q. M. His Exchequer is poor, and King Philip's Indieses riches, and therefore his Majesty likes it so well, as he will hearken to no other. H. 8. How doth Prince Charles himself like this motion? P. H. I know not how my Brother likes it, but for my part, I should ever have preferred a Daughter of France to that of Spain, and I hope the match will not succeed, because my Noble Brother Prince Charles is wise, valiant, and generous. E. 6. But how doth the brave and grave Parliament savour this Spanish match? Q. A. Few love it, most fear it, But as the match, so the Parliament is not yet ended. Q. E. This would be Music indeed for the Roman Catholics of England, if it should take effect; for the very first news thereof, made them flap their wings, as if they were ready to crow. Q. M. Yea, for they hope, and which is more, they know, that if it prove a match, That the Infanta will soon introduce the Mass, and Usher in the Pope; therefore they have reason to rejoice at it. P. H. But if the King of Spain will not give the sum which my Father King james demands, will not they make it up? Q. E. It is probable and credible, That their Holy Father the Pope and themselves will stretch both their purses and credits to knit the match. H. 8. Why? hath Gondomar such power with King james, to hope to see this match effected? Q. M. O yes; for his Majesty saith, that his Master is an honest King, and he a wise Servant: The first all the world knows; and the second, I hope England shall shortly feel, at least, if all hooks take. P. H. Indeed if Gondomar can effect this match, it is the direct way for him to be a Grandee of Spain, and to procure a red Hat for his Son, or Nephew. Q. A. Was the Duke of Monteleone so rewarded for his French matches. Q. M. He is already a Grandee of Spain, and hath the promise of a Ha●. Q. A. Why then Count Gondomar need not fear, for he hath as much policy as the Duke of Monteleone, though not so much ostentation. H. 8. Who made and concluded the match with King Philip? Q. M. Myself, and the Parliament. Q. E. Nay Sister, put in Woolsey and Gardyner, and leave out the Parliament; for you only proposed it them but for form, and had secretly concluded it before hand yourself. Q. M. Suppose I did, I might do it of mine own authority, and prerogative Royal. Q. E. But you offered no fair play to the Parliament though, in ask their advice when the Contracts were ready to be sealed. Q. M. But I had reason to follow mine own judgement, not their Passions. H. 8. Nay, nay Daughter, you chose followed your own passion, not their judgements, & so God gave limits to Philip's Ambition, and your own desires, by making you forsake earth, & he England. E. 6. But wise King james is opposite to my Sister Mary, aswel in Religion as sex; and therefore I hope, nay, I assure myself, he will first consult this match with his Parliament, ere he conclude it with Spain. P. H. If the voice of the Parliament be free, and not enforced, I make no doubt but the Pope, the King of Spain, Gondomar, and all our Recusants will come short of their hopes for the match. H. 8. Daughter, what benefits proposed you to the Parliament, by your match with Spain? Q. M. Strength, Profit, Honour, which England, King james, and Prince Charles will likewise now find if the match hold. E. 6. As for strength, if England would know its self, it need not expect or hope for any from Spain: for Spain's assistance hath always proved fatal and ruinous, to those who have used it; And if England would assume the ancient generosity of her Ancestors, and forsake her new fangled pride, and prodigality, We know it is strong enough to beat Spain, and all his Kingdoms and Provinces, & no way so weak, to fear that Spain should make England a Province; for it were far safer for England, and Englishmen, if they wore worse clothes, and had better hearts and swords, and if they were more martial and less effeminate. Q. E. For Profit, what Indieses are richer than England? For if England want money, herself is still more powerful and capable to enrich itself, if it would be less vain, and more frugal and industrious, etc. What is a few hundred thousand pounds to England, if England be thereby exposed to the danger of Spain? or that it be again fetched from them by the Buy, as it was brought in by the Main? for was profit ever cheap when it was bought with loss and repentance, with tears and blood? or shall not every Ducat be weighed and counterpoised down with a far greater prejudice and inconueniency: for if the Match hold, will not our Recusants look aloof? will not Spaniards be so ambitiously insolent, to attempt to outlook English? will not the Pope steal in by degrees, and the King of Spain break in either like a Torrent or a Thunderbolt, when his Factors and Agents have made all things ripe and in a readiness? will this be England's profit? P. H. For Honour, England and Scotland were free, Royal, and ancient Monarchies; when indeed Spain was not Spain, but dis-jointed and dissevered Provinces: yea, for Pomp, State, and Glory, our Princes were Kings, when their Kings were scarce Princes, nor their Prince's Nobles: Therefore GREAT BRITAIN by the Match can confer and add honour to Spain; but not Spain to GREAT BRITAIN. Q. A. I could never yet affect the Match of Spain, for either of the two Princes my Sons: for the Spaniard is by nature as treacherous as proud, and although Northampton persuaded me thereto, yet I loved truehearted Salisbury, who always diverted me from it; as (in the depth of his Allegiance, and the profundity of his wisdom & judgement) well foreseeing they would prove fatal and ruinous to England. E. 6. It is strange to see with what insatiable desire and Ambition, Spain covets England; for he hath already attempted it by treachery, by force, and now by the Match of his Daughter the Infanta to Prince Charles. Q. M. You mean King Philip the 2. and not this present King Philip the 3; And as Don juan de Taris (the Ambassador of Spain) told King james at his first coming to the Crown of England, that the Ambition and malice of Spain to England, died with that Prince, and was interred and buried with him. Q. E. But was this King Philip the third and his Council never acquainted with that horrible Gunpowder Treason, whereby it was intended and resolved, that England should have been blown up, overthrown, and ruined in a moment. Q. M. O no, he is too Catholic a King to have harkened, much less to have approved that Passionate plot. Q. E. You might have said, that execrable and damnable plot of treason, but that you will still seek to diminish and extenuate Rome and Spain's Treasons. Q. M. You infinitely wrong the Pope, and King of Spain, to suspect, much less to believe, that they were acquainted with that Powder-plot. Q. E. No: went not Faulkes (that hellish Incendary) once to Rome about it, and the younger Winter twice to Vallidolide. Q. M. Yea, about some other business it may be, although I must confess it was very immediately before that Treason was discovered. P. H. Gondomar told me, that both the Pope and King of Spain abhorred that Treason. Q. A. I fear they abhorred it, for grief it took not effect. Q. M. If ever this King Philip hated England, ye may be sure now he loves it; for else he would never seek to match his Daughter to it. Q. E. What force and treachery cannot effect, now affection in the match shall. Wherein King Philip is of Lysander's mind, who when the Lion's skin will not serve, he will sow on a piece of the Fox's tail. E. 6. So he come into England, he cares not by which way he arrive. P. H. So the Daughter come not into England, England need not fear the coming of the Father. Q. M. Count Gondomar will beat his head and his horse shoes, but he will bring in the Daughter, and already his hopes & the probabilities are great, for he is exceeding great and familiar with King james. Q. E. Else he could never have gotten open the Prisons-doores for the Roman Priests and Jesuits. P. H. Nor have made Rauleighs' head to caper beyond his body. Q. A. Nor have kept back an Army from my Son and Daughter, the King and Queen of Bohemia, when so many hundred thousand valiant English Soldiers desired and longed to have served them in their wars. Q. E. Nor have shipped away so great a quantity of Ordnance for Spain, which one of these days will return Bullets to our hearts. E. 6. Nor have procured a gallant Fleet to secure the coast of Spain, against the Turkish Pirates, under colour of going to Argier and Barbary. P. H. That Fleet was fitter to have gone to Mexico. Q. A. So indeed it might have returned with glory and Gold, whereas now I fear it will with loss and repentance, I will not say with shame. Q. E. I know by Experience, it is an excellent thing for England to fight with Spaniards, but not to join with Spaniards against others. P. H. Why should not our English Fleets go for the West Indies. Q. M. If this Proposition be broached, than Gondomar will run mad. E. 6. What difference is there betwixt the East and West Indies. P. H. As much as there is between Pepper and Silver, or white Feathers and yellow Gold. H. 8. O but England, near this twenty years hath lost those golden times of going to the gardens of Hesperides. P. H. And now Holland after ten years' trial, and patience, resolves to find them. Q. E. Now we speak of Holland: It again exceedingly grieves me, that England goes from Holland, in that it will not protect it against Spain. Q. M. And truly it is my joy and comfort to understand it; for the farther England goes from Holland, I am sure the nearer Spain comes to England. P. H. Nay, if the match hold, Holland can expect no assistance from England; for the Pope, the King of Spain, Gondomar, the jesuits, and English Recusants, will in few years so shuffle & deal the Cards, as England shall not be able to assist herself, much less her Neighbours. E 6. Why that is the way, in a few more years, to make England a Province to Spain. Q E. Yea, yea, there is the mystery; for if the Match with Spain hold, the Conquest of England will undoubtedly follow, and then Gondomar can be no less than Viceroy, or great Commander of England, for the King and Council of Spain will judge him worthy of this honour, because he hath deserved it. P. H. It were better Spain were hell, and Gondomar Viceroy to the Devil, as he is now Ambassador to the Catholic King. Q. A. But is it possible that the King of Spain hath so little justice and Charity, and so much Vanity and Ambition to desire it? E. 6. The Kings of Spain make this the tenth Article of their Creed, that the Rules of the Empire and State ought to give Laws, but not to receive any. Q. E. But this is contrary to the Laws of the KING of Kings. Q. M. But in the Council of Spain, the Rules of State are always too sublime and powerful for those of Religion; yea, the Pope will easily dispense with the King of Spain, to make a Conquest of England, either by treachery, hostility, or the match: for it is against an heretic King and People, who refuse to enter into the bosom of the Church, & therefore lawful in itself; because it tends to the Catholic cause, the displanting and rooting out of Heretics, and the establishing & preservation of the Roman Catholics in England. Q. E. Those giddy and passionate Roman Catholics of England, who desire to fish in troubled waters, who delight in nothing but in innovation and novelty, and who make a May-game of Conscience, and an Ape of Religion, may peradventure flatter themselves with the false sunshine of these hopes; but those of them whose hearts are better lodged, and whose eyes and judgements can see farther and clearer, Those I say, who know by the Laws of Grace and Nature, what they owe to GOD, to their lawful Prince, and Country; those remember, that the Duke of Medina Sydonia said in eighty eight (who was then General of the Spanish Fleet) that his Commission was not to distinguish of Religion; but to make a passage with his Sword, o'er both Religions without exception, that thereby the King his Master might have the easier way, and fairer passage to the Crown and Kingdom of England: Therefore we need no perspective Glass, or Spectacles to see, that it is not the establishing of the Roman Religion, but of himself in England, whereat the King of Spain still aims. Q. M. But Count Gondomar is wise enough to provide a Plaster for that sore, for he in nettling the Nobler sort of Catholics with the Match, hath in plain terms given the lie to the Duke of Medina his speech, and therefore he hopes they will believe him. P. H. The nobler and more passionate and factious sort of them may believe Gondomar herein, but the wiser, temperate, and conscious will not; and yet the Feminine Gender, are Masculine sticklers and solicitors for him, as he and the Jesuits are for the King his Master. Q. E. Nay, the Roman Catholics of England have reason to believe Gondomar; sith King james loves him so well, as he esteems his speeches Oracles and Scripture; and who with the quintessence of his castilian, or rather Galician brain, hath now brought matters to this pass, that no cinsere advice, honest Letter, Religious Sermon, or true picture can point at the King of Spain, but they are called in; and their Authors imprisoned (in stead of rewarded) though never so honest and loyal Subjects. H. 8. But me thinks that this is no subtle policy of Gondomar; for the more he strives to suppress the truth, the more it will flourish and prevail; For (for the good of England) if one pen, or tongue be commanded to silence▪ they will occasion and set ten at liberty to write and speak; as Grass or Cammomell, which the more it is depressed, the thicker it will spread and grow. Q. M. But hath not Gondomar reason to strike whiles he finds the Iron hot, and to take the benefit of the flood, before the ebb come or the tide be spent. Q. A. Indeed they say, he reports that this Summer time, the air of London and Islington is not sweet enough, either for his Fistula, or perfumed brain, and that he hath therefore gotten leave of his Majesty, to lodge in a part of his Palace of Greenwich, which stands in so pure an air, upon the pleasant Crystal River of Thames. Q. E. That were a presumptuous part of Gondomar indeed, to aspire to lodge in that pleasant, and Royal Palace of Greenwich. Q M. But if it be so, I think it is not to lodge there himself, but only to square out the Infanta's Lodgings, her Chamber of Presence, and a Plot to build her Grace a Chapel against she come, whereof jones Sir Innigo hath already the Model in his brains. P. H. If King JAMES my Father lodge Gondomar this Summer in Greenwich, the next, King Philip himself will hope to lie in White-Hall. E. 6. Nay soft, first let his Daughter the Infanta come, for she must break the Ice, ere his Catholic Majesty will dare adventure to come pass the Seas hither. Q. M. Adventure to come? Why wherefore else, saith Count Gondomar, lies King JAMES his Fleet at Alicant, and Cartagena, but to transport her for England this Summer? Q. E. Until I am enforced to understand, that that Fleet is at Lisbon the Groin, or Saint Andera, I will not believe it, but then I will fear it. Q. M. So the Heretic Protestants of France, feared their Spanish matches, and yet we see they prosper. Q. A. It is the end which crownes the beginning, not the beginning the end of a work. Q. E. What speak you Sister of the French matches with Spain, to this of England and Spain? for all the world knows, that the Estates of England and France, are Diametrically opposite in point of Religion; for France hath forty Papists for one Protestant, and England forty Protestants for one Papist. Q. M. But those Protesting Heretics of England, will sing another tune, when they see the King of Spain hath made their Country his Province. P. H. Heaven forbid, that ever England should sing the tune of Spain's Ballad, or Spain live so long to make England see that dismal and bloody day. Q▪ E. It were far better, that Prince Charles were married to an English Milkmaid, and the Infanta of Spain mewed up for a Nun in a Cloister. Q. A. Yea, for how can my Son Prince Charles think the King of Spain loves him, when he sees that underhand, he is a mortal and professed Enemy to his Brother and Sister, the King and Queen of Bohemia. Q. M. You mistake Madam; for it is the Emperor Ferdinand, and not King Philip that is their mortal Enemy. P. H. If Philip had not (underhand) powerfully assisted Ferdinand, His Imperial Majesty, had neither had legs to go, nor wings to fly into Prague, and yet the King my Father will not assist his Son in Law, King Frederick. Q. A. Yes, to recover the Palatinate, if that were lost; But Gondomar through his sly Crutches, and sugared insinuations, hath extorted a hope, and some say, wrested a Promise from King JAMES not to assist Bohemia, but I hope the contrary. Q.E. But will Spinola restore those towns he hath taken in the Pallatinate. Q.M. Gondomar promiseth that Digby, shall bring that home under his hand and seal, only he says, 'tis fit that Spinola should be satisfied of his charges. Q. E. That's an old baffle and trick of Spain, which upon the matter, will prove but a flat denial. Therefore if King james please to hearken to my advice, I would send an Army thither and refetch these Towns of the Pallatinate from Ferdinand, Philip, Al●e●tus, and Bavaria, with the point of the sword, in despite of Spinola, Tilly, and Cordova. P. H. If I were again living in England, I would so work with the King my Father, that this resolution of Queen Elizabeth, should never dye, but speedily be put in execution; for it is the safest, cheapest, shortest, and Honourablest way for England; yea, what would not England do for my dear and Royal Sister of Bohemia, if the King my Father, would but give it the word of command? Q. M. But content yourself Nephew, Count Gondomar hath promised that his Master King Philip will give King james content for the Towns of the Pallatinate. Q. A. So Gondomar promised his Majesty, that Spinola should never attempt the Pallatinate, and yet we see the contrary, and being false in this, how, or what reason have we to believe him to be true in the match. Q. M. England must believe him, sith their King doth, and wil And herein, I both triumph and glory P. H. Thus my Royal Father entreats, where he should command, and love's pain, where he hath far more reason to hate it. Q. E. And this is my truest grief and deepest affliction, that King james will ●●●ll delight in contemplation, when (if his Majesty will not) all the world sees, that King Philip is (underhand) deep in action H. 8. It may be King james thinks King Philip to be of Hannybals mind, who more feared Fabius not fight, then Marcellus fighting, or of Pompey, or Marcus Crassus their opinion; who were more afraid of Cicero's gown, then of Caesar's sword. Q. M. No thing less; for King Philip, loves King james his Gown & Pen, yet no way fears his sword. Q. E. But if King james inherited my resolution as he doth my Kingdoms, I would make Spain fear his sword, and Rome either love or obey his Pen, and never consent to a Peace, much less to the match. Q. M. But why should King Philip fear King james his sword, sith he never yet knew the way to draw it: or why should his Catholic Majesty fear the Council of England, sith it is apparent to all the World, that the element and delight of their King, is books, not battles, the pen not the Pike. H. 8. Why? Know you not Daughter, that King JAMES hath lately established a Council of War, and whereunto think you tends that. Q. M. To Peace I hope, or rather, assure myself. Q. E. Then Sister, ye are of near intelligence with Gondomar; for not long since in one of his dispatches to Spain, he wrote the LL. of that Council, that they should not doubt or fear of the Council of War of England; for it was (said he) but a scarecrow to fear, not to hurt, and would only serve as a Vane on a house top, rather for ornament then use. But if King james were of my mind, his Council of War should strike rather than threaten; and send a Royal Army into the bowels and heart of Castille, ere they thought it could be ready to depart from the Ports of England. Q. M. Not into Castille; for then the Peace were quite broken betwixt ENGLAND and SPAIN. P. H. Why then into Bohemia, the Palatinate; The Netherlands; or the States of Venice, or wheresoever the castilian Regiments disturb the public Peace of Christendom. E. 6. I see no reason to the contrary, but England should be as soon in Arms and Action as Spain. Q. E. But it is the enchanting melody of the Match, that brings England out of tune. Q M. But in this Proposition and Parley of the Match, the King and Council of Spain, speak fair terms, and give real not verbal content to King james. Q. E. So, did Philip your Husband, and his Father by his Ambassadors to mine at Bourbourg, thereby to lull me asleep when his great Armado was in a manner ready to weigh Anchor, and set Sail from Lisbon to invade me and my England. Q. M. But King james knows Spain's affection and Gondomars sincerity to him, and consequently to England in seeking this Match. Q. A. But England knows neither the affection of the Master, or the sincerity of the Servant, and therefore hath reason, though not to fear, yet to suspect both. H. 8. It rather thinks King Philip of Pericles his opinion and Ambition, who desired that the Island in the Port of Piree might be removed, sith it was a moat and beam in his eye. P. H. The Moral is, that Philip would have England a Province to Spain; but if the Match hold not: Spain's Ambition, Gondomares policy, and both their treachery will prove too weak to perform so strong an execution. Q. M. Then the King of Spain will hate Gondomare, as much as he vaunts the King of England loves him. But I trust Count Gondomare hath lived too long to dote, or be made a Child in his old age. P. H. No, no, Gondomare is too young to dote, and too old to be a child, therefore he is Confident and sure that the Match will hold; but withal, he saith the Parliament must be ended, ere these royal Nuptial Ceremonies can begin, and so I think to. E. 6. Indeed this castilian Ambassador now sails before wind and tide, under foresail, and maine-top-sayle, but very shortly he hopes to hoist up top and top-gallant. P.H. he may chance to pack on so much sail, that he may at last crack the main Mast of his Policy, or the main stay of his hopes, or be so busy and violent in the solicitation of this Match, as he himself may give himself a Shot, which may sink either his reputation, or judgement, or both, betwixt wind and water. Q. E. Intruth I found his Predicessor Mendoza too busy and dangerous in my State, and therefore I forbade him my presence, and discharged him my Kingdom, whereat I know not whether he, or the King his Master, more grieved, or my Council and my Country rejoiced. Q. A. Gondomare hath had time enough to know my Husband King james, but it seems King james hath not yet enough deeply pried into Gondamare. In a word I know his Majesty hath heard his tongue, but not seen his heart, much less the designs and resolutions of the King and Council of Spain, which are enveloped and hood-winked under the Mystery of this Match. H. 8. Indeed I have read that Philip K. of Macedon went near to have betrayed Arisba, K. of Molosses of his kingdom, under treating a Match with him. Q. M. O but that Philip of Macedon was a Heathen King, and this Philip of Spain is the Catholic King, therefore King james need not fear his sincerity in the Match. Q. E. Sith you are so Religious Sister, pray say, how doth the Inquisition of Spain like to match their Infanta to an Heretic Prince, for so I know they term my Noble Nephew Prince Charles? P. H. Why? Digbye could have resolved you of that long since, for he knows that the sacred and reverend Inquisition of Spain loves England, but not the Match, our Country, but not our Religion and People; and yet in hope to root out Heretics, and to plant England with Roman Catholics, they oppose not the Match, but rather give way to it, and approve it. Q. E. But can Royal King james, and his Illustrious Son Prince Charles observe their Religion and Conscience, in consenting to this Match, or have the Clergy of England warrant enough Authentical, out of the Word of God to say Amen to it? Q A. O no, for King james (though not the Prince and Clergy) will now make Religion and Conscience Handmaidens to wait and attend on the State. E. 6. But his Majesty should do far better to defend the Faith (whereof he is the Defender) and therein the State, which professeth the true and sincere Religion of Christ and his Apostles, sith Piety is the preserver of Kingdoms, and all our actions whatsoever should tend to the glory of God, which is the banishing of Idolatry and Superstition, with their effects and Causes. Q. M. Why pray, what Marriage so religious as for Prince Charles to match with the Catholic King his Daughter. Q E. Sister you have still Religion in your tongue, but I fear we shall find none in your heart, for pray what places have you of divine Scripture, to authorise and approve this Match of Prince Charles with the Infanta, sith they are of a different Religion and Belief. Q. M. As I confess I have none to approve it, so I am sure you all cannot allege any one to oppose and contradict it. H. 8. Yes, I produce Gen. Ch. 24. Ch. 26. against it. E. 6. And I Exod. Ch. 34. judg. Ch. 17. Q. E. And I josh. Ch. 23. 2 Chron. Ch. 21. P. H. And I 1 King. Ch. 11. Ch. 16. Q. A. And I Ezra. Ch. 9 Nehem. Ch. 13. Q. M. Well, whatsoever you say, this Match (notwithstanding) tends to God's glory, and the good of the Catholic and Apostolic Church, and in the end you shall find, that Gondomars policy and Spain's Ambition will triumph over your Scripture. Q. E. This Match tends only to bring in the Pope into our Churches, and the King of Spain into our Estate; for that is the aim of the first, the Ambition of the second, and the object and hopes of both, and I fear a few years will prove it so; if in time it be not remedied and prevented: which God of his mercy grant, for 'tis true all the wheels of Gondomars Art and Invention, are at work to effect and accomplish it. Q. M. The Pope I must confess (as Christ's Vicar General on earth) desires that England were Catholic, but for the good King of Spain, he hath Kingdoms enough of his own, and therefore looks not after England, only he desires to see the Match consummated. P. H. Yes, the King of Spain's tongue hath so long watered, and his mouth gaped for England, that after Spain, he wisheth England were his above all the Countries of the World, and his Catholic Majesty is very confident, that this Match will give a main stroke to the business. Q. E. If he once have England; he will presently assume the Title of Emperor of the West, as King Philip his Father was resolved to do a little before his death; yea his Ambition was so violent, as he missing of England, would have proclaimed himself Emperor of Spain; and had not his Council diverted and prevented him, he would have sailed to Mexico, and there invested and entitled himself Emperor of America: P. H. And I have heard that Gondomar hath given the King of Spain his Master good hope of England; for 'tis certain that he not long since wrote to the Dukes of Lerma and Pastranna, that the report of the strength of England resembled those huge Pageants and Colossuses erected at Rome, as the Caesar's past from the Melvine bridge to the Capitol in Triumph, who were outwardly glorious, but within filled only with straw and poor combustible stuff. E. 6. Indeed, it is the shame & weakness of England, that Spain is no better acquainted with its strength. Q. A. And 'tis my grief that Spain should see England's weakness, and not feel its strength. Q. E. O but it is the Spanish Match which will give fire to England, and make her welter in her miseries, and flame in her calamities and afflictions. Q. M. No, no, that Match will keep the Temple of England's Peace from firing. H. 8. Yea, as Erostratus did that of Diana of Ephesus, which in one day consumed all the wealth that rich Asia had been many years and ages getting. Q. A. As Religion is the powerfullest passion of our Soul, so there is no stronger link of Friendship than Conscience, and therefore I hope my son Charles will not consent to match with the Infanta of Spain. Q. M. But one of his chiefest Virtues is his obedience to the King his Father; for although the Prince be his Son, yet he knows he is his Subject. Q. A. All the world cannot better teach the Prince my Son to obey the King his Father, than already he knows and doth; but I could wish that King james my Husband would not enforce his affection to this Spanish Match. Q. E. If he marry the Infanta, she may prove a false and unsecret Secretary to the Prince her Husband, and a dangerous Princess to the State: for he giving her his heart, his Highness can hardly reserve any corner thereof for himself. P. H. Yea then every Spanish Traitor and English Rebel will shroud themselves under the authority and greatness of the Princess. E. 6. So if England match with Spain, Spain undoubtedly will in a short time over-match England. Q. A. And infallibly take the Crown from it. Q. M. Borrow it peradventure, to see it, not to wear it. P. H. I fear to wear it, never to return it. H. 8. Yea for once gone, it is gone for ever. Q. E. And then shall England's strong men fall upon the edge of the Sword; her Virgins be deflowered and murdered, her Wives defiled and slain in sight of their dying Husbands; and their Children & young Babes shall have their brains dashed against the walls in sight of their dead Parents. P. H. Yea then shall our Nobility and Gentry, die upon the swords of those Barbarous castilians, and those who escape and survive their fury, shall be fettered and led Captives and slaves to work in the Mines of Peru and Mexico. E. 6. Then shall our Priests who are now clothed in the white robes of Righteousness, be drowned in those of their own scarlet blood: No Church, no Temple, no Preaching, no Sacraments, but all covered with the thick fogs of Rome's superstitious Idolatries, and Egyptian darkness. Q.A. Yea, than the King my Husband, the Prince my Son, my excellent Daughter the Queen of Bohemia, her Princely Posterity, and if Spain possibly can, all Great Britain's blood Royal shall be rooted out and exterminated, as if they never had been, or at lest no remembrance left of them, or of the name of Great Britain. Q. M. This were music indeed for Rome and Spain to dance at, and for Gondomar to laugh himself to death for joy. Q. E. But I hope God of his mercy will confound all those who wish or desire it, whether it be Gondomar, the jesuits, England's Recusants, Spain, the Pope, or the Devil. The Conclusion of the Consultation. H. 8. But here let us make a stand, and shut up our Consultation; and sith so many millions of imminent dangers desolations and miseries attend and hang over the head of England by this Match of Spain; let us go to suffrages and Votes, that plurality may give sentence whether it shall be a Match yea or no; for what we conclude, I make no doubt but our great God with his own voice will ratify and confirm. H. 8. Q. M. Whereunto we all consent and agree. E. 6. Q. E. Whereunto we all consent and agree. P. H. Q. A. Whereunto we all consent and agree. H. 8. I am against the Match. E. 6. I am against the Match. P. H. I am against the Match. Q. M. I am for the Match. Q. E. I am against the Match. Q. A. I am against the Match. H. 8. Daughter Mary, we are five against you one, therefore the Match of England and Spain, hath end ere beginning, and is absolutely cast without revocation. And now let us bre●ke up our Consultation, and again repair to the Throne of the Lamb, (of our sacred God both of Heaven and Earth) to acquaint his Divine Majesty with all the particulars thereof, and therein to receive his Heavenly pleasure and Command; When the Angel opening Heaven's Star-chamber, a great concourse and afluence of Saints and Angels (singing most Divinely) conduct them to the Blessed Tribunal, where the whole news of their Consultation, being already arrived to the understanding of the Almighty; It pleased his Divine and Celestial Majesty, to call forth Queen Mary whom he sharply reproves & checks, in loving Spain, to be so unnatural to hate her native Country of England. Then he infinitely Disproves the Match of Prince Charles, with the Infanta of Spain; as derogating from his Divine Glory, and England's safety and prosperity; and so to Conclude very joyfully & cheerfully approves of their Consultation; which for the more grace and authority he makes and reputes as his own. When Commanding these three Princes, & two Queens (for Queen Mary was now put by and excluded) to send unto England (by its own Tutulary Angel) four several printed Copies of this their Consultation; The first to be delivered to King james; the second to Prince Charles, his Son; the third, to the High Court of Parliament; and the fourth, to the Lords of his Majesty's most Honourable Privy Counsel▪ the which in his Sacred presence was speedily performed and effected; When a great shout of joy, and an Universal plaudite being hereunto given by all the Angels, and Host of Heaven; These five Royal Personages again followed the Lamb CHRIST JESUS where he went. This Consultation thus ended, Queen Mary biting the lip at her check and Disgrace; and grieving to see the Match of the Infanta with Prince Charles thus unexpected dashed; and consequently the Pope frustrated of his hopes, and the King of Spain of his Ambitious desires, She calls Mercury to her, and withal possible speed sends him away likewise to England, with these two ensuing Letters which she had written, the one to Count Gondomar the other to all the Roman Catholics of England. Queen Mary. To Count Gondomar Ambassador for Philip the III. King of Spain, resident with JAMES, King of Great BRITAIN. YOur Excellency may understand, that I have dispatched Mercury to you in England, to advertise you of a Consultation held here in Heaven, by my Father King Henry VIII. my Brother King Edward VI my Sister Queen Elizabeth, Queen Anne, Prince Henry, and myself, concerning your Master's pretences and hopes of England, by the Match of the Infanta his Daughter, with Prince Charles, which all the other five have opposed as prejudicial & Dangerous, and myself maintained as profitable and Honourable for England; For loving Philip the Father, I must & will ever Honour Philip his son; They have likewise ripped up & unmasked Spain's former Ambition, Cruelty, and Treachery, aswell towards England, as other Kingdoms and States of Europe, the discovery and relation whereof, I could never silence nor prevent, your Excellency must give me leave to signify, that I fear your Secretaries are not so honest, as yourself Politic; For you are hereby these Princes brought on the Stage in your naked and natural Colours, therefore I could wish you to be more modest and not so busy; Only to the utmost of your mortal power, knit the knot of this Match, for if it hold, the heart of England will be soon broken, or if the contrary, it will infalliably break the neck of the King your Master's general hopes & pretences, and also of your own particular credit and reputation, aswell in England, as Spain; you have many eyes over you, & although your sweet words and promises lull King james, asleep, you will nevertheless go near to be circumvented, by those you seek to circumvent. If you can bring in the Infanta, doubt you not but she will usher in the Pope, and consequently he the Catholic King, your Master; Forget not to continue, and fortify your Intelligence with the Seminaries and jesuits of England, as also with the Catholic Ladies of that Kingdom, and especially, with those of the Nobler rank, and who are most powerful at Court, for they may open a passage for your Master when none else dare. At any hand use the prime of your Art & Invention, to keep the King of England poor & be sure to rivet this nail sound to his Majesty that there is no Virtue so Royal and Magnificent in a Great King, as Liberality. I am sorry to hear that England's Navy Royal, doth so prosper and flourish; In which regard & consideration, the King your Master shall do well to build store of new Ships in Biscay, Ostend, and Dunkirk; for if Spain master England at Sea, England can never withstand Spain by Land; for now the English are Effeminate, and you Spaniards Soldiers. I doubt not but by this time, there is such order taken in Spain, that the English Fleet at Alicant, & Cartagena, shall return home with loss, shame and repentance, whereby you may teach them that it is only proper for Spaniards, to Domineer at Sea, and that the Sea, and Maritine actions, are now Spain's, no longer England's Element. So whiles England lies gasping, on her bed of Peace & security, let the King your Master provide for war; Continue to sow Division in the Church of England, and rather augment then diminish your Pensions to you know whom. If there be any Army to go out of England, either for Bohemia, the Palatinate, the Netherlands, or Venice, deal so effectually with King james, that either it be so small as it can do no great hurt to Catholics, or be a means to cause them to stay so long, that it be impossible to do any good for Protestants. I commend your Excellency's policy, in being sharp, and bitter against those, who either Speak, write, or Preach, against the King your Master and his pretences, for now you having the Honour and felicity, to see yourself tied to King james his Ear, & his Majesty to your Girdle, the disgrace and punishment of these will terrify others. Be sure to be intimately acquainted with all Factious and Discontented Catholics, for they will prove fine Agents & Instruments to execute your Master's commands. I am glad to see King Philip so sleight and disrespect King james, as he hath not this many years sent him an Extraordinary Ambassador, especially, now for Treating and Concluding this Match; for the more you and he Debase the Honour and undervalue the Reputation of England, the more you advance and prize that of Spain. But that which grieves me most, is because God himself hath opposed and confirmed the breach, and delaceration of the Match; but I hope that for the Catholic King's sake, our Holy Father the Pope, and our blessed Mother the Church, will so interpose their Prayers to his Sacred and Divine Majesty, that very shortly he will revoke & change his Resolution, and relish that which he now Distasteth. Through your zeal and industry, I likewise doubt not, but (before a few years be past and blown over) to see England made a Province to Spain; her Nobility most murdered, and the rest carried away Slaves to work in the Mines of Peru, and Mexico; the Pope Installed; all Heretics rooted out either with Fire or Halter. Let your Excellency proceed, as you have well and happily begun, and fear not but you shall enjoy your wishes, the King your Master his hopes, and myself and all the Roman Catholics of England our desires. In the mean time I kindly greet and salute your Excellency, and by your next Dispatch for Spain, fail not to signify that I kiss the Catholics Kings hand. Written and sent from Heaven. Your Excellency's Friend: MARRY Queen. Queen Mary. To the Roman Catholics of England, of both Sexes, and of all Ranks. MY Heart on Earth, and my Soul in Heaven, hath ever so deeply affected you and your Religion, as to the utmost of my power, I will never permit, that any adverse accident, or Stratagem whatsoever, shall endamage you, or prejudice it. to which end now by Mercury (whom I have purposely sent unto you) I would not fail to advertise you of a Consultation which hath been here held, by my Father Henry VIII. my Brother Edward VI my Sister Queen Elizabeth, Queen Anne, Prince Henry and myself; tending to the safety and glory of England, to the unmasking of Spain's pretentious Ambition and Treachery to many Estates of Europe, and more especially to the utter breach of the Match, betwixt Prince Charles & the Infanta of Spain, which two last points I alone, maintained and defended, but they all most violently Contradicted and Opposed. In which Consultation (I write it aswell with Grief as Pity:) Count Gondomar, hath been narrowly both sifted and censured, and all his Actions brought on the Table▪ and made apparent and obvious to the dimmest Eye, to the weakest judgement and Understanding, the which I have now signified his Excellency by a particular Letter; Wherein I have prayed him to have a more jealous and curious Eye over his Secretaries, as I know England hath over him; And to the end your Souls and Consciences may have Spiritual food & Consolation, I wish and exhort you to put all your Wits on the tender-hookes to bring in the Infanta: Or else never expect the Pope, and consequently not the Catholic King. For else all your Intelligence with Rome and Spain, your Correspondence with the Jesuits and Count Gondomar, will not prevail, nor your poison Poniard, or Powder take effect, if the Match do not; And because King james wants Money and his Exchequer is drawn dry and exhausted, if he stand on a greater sum than the Catholic King can, or will give, you shall do a most acceptable service to our Blessed Father the Pope, and to our Holy Mother the Church; That you Lords and Knights mortgage your Manners and Plate, and you Ladies and Gentlewomen, pawn your Rings and jewels to make up the expected Sum; For the Match once consummated you know, and Count Gondomar can perfectly teach you, a thousand ways to refetch it, with a joyful and golden Interest; I highly prise and applaud your joy, when you saw Bohemia won, & the Palatinate assaulted; towards which Victories and Conquests, your bountiful Contributions gave a great stroke, which although Ferdinand for the present cannot recompense; yet doubt not but Philip shortly and futurely will; Sith his Ambassador Gondomar makes him confident, that you are as fast nailed to his Sceptre, as his Catholic Majesty is to the Pope's triple Crown. Be you still the eyes of Count Gondomar, and let him still continue your Oracle, for you can never desire a better Solicitor than himself, nor a stronger Protector than the King his Master. But in very deed, I much fear that this great Parliament, will teach the Protestants of England, wit, and you Roman Catholics repentance. If Holland, the Palatinate, or Venice, be in the Field, be not you Idle in your Houses or in England: for although Dover be shut, you shall find Ports enough open▪ for it is for the Progression and Advancement of the Catholic Cause, & for the Service of the great Catholic King▪ and if all things hit well, you shall not repent yourselves of your Valour & Generosity employed & spent in his Service. What though God have here approved of this Consultation against the Match; yet his great Vicar the Pope, will Confirm the Match against the Consultation; Therefore make you your Peace with the Pope, & doubt not but his Holiness, both can and will, at his pleasure, make his with his God; Howsoever be ruled, and believe in the Pope, who is the Head of the Church; For you know out of the Church there is no Salvation. I like well that there daily Travels some of your wisest Gentlemen for Spain, and now you see there is no fear to bring home Priests and Jesuits, for Count Gondomar hath found out the Art and Mystery, to open the Doors of Wisbich, the Gatehouse, and the Clicnke, at his pleasure. To live Idle is Effeminate and base, be you therefore (like yourselves) still busy and in action, for as in matters of Religion and Piety, so in those of the State, the Practic is always more Honourable than the Theory. In a word, as long as Heretic King's reign in England, your zealous Catholics shall there find but little Peace, and less joy; and yet I must needs confess, that God seems to bear a particular affection to King james, but withal you know the second means must be used, which (I write to my comfort) I see his Majesty neglects; So if Gondomar continue in England, and the Match die not, than I hope a little time will work all things to the best. Till when I salute you all, and will still pray with you for the Prosperity of the Great cause. Written and sent from Heaven. Queen MARIE. FINIS.