THE APPOLLOGIE OF THE ILLUSTRIOUS Prince ERNESTUS, Earl of Mansfield, etc.  
WHEREIN FROM HIS FIRST Entertainment, are laid open the Occasions of his Wars in Bohemia, Austria, and the Palatinate, with his faithful Service to the King of Bohemia.  
Translated out of the Original French Copy.  
Printed at Heidelbergh. 1622.   

TO THE READERS.  
REaders you must give me leave to present my Book to you, without the Epithet of Gentle, Courteous or Impartial Readers: for mine is an Apology; which, he that is sure of such Readers, needs not make. And if the glory of this most loyal and victorious Count, hath still at home been confronted with envious censures: how should a story of his Actions, every where meet with such Readers? This therefore rather hopes to make, then find you so. And readers I call you, plurally: for it looks to fall into diverse hands, and all not alike minded▪ some may light upon this Apology, who by their envious detractions from his Acts, have been the causers that some such as this were sit to be made for his justification. But I hope, that they being now out of action, and so no longer corrivals in his honour, the proof of his victorious fidelity, hath by this time either made them ashamed or silent. A second sort are those, whom these scandalous reports have suspended in their good opinions of his fidelity to the King: and to them is this Apology chief intended: for it well hopes that by relating the treacheries who (by his martial sentence) suffered for it, and withal truly representing his diligence and letters to the traitors, and the wants which disabled him from hindering their plots when his wisdom had discovered them: will throughly inform such a Reader, & turn him now to an impartial Reader. A third sort may light upon this, who have lived so fare off from news, that they never heard him so much as suspected (for thankes be to God, his glory is further traveled then their envy, which hath either been lost by the way, or turned back again) and I hope these men will think their money well bestowed: in that an Apology must of necessity discover more private and particular passages, whence this envy sprang, than any general History of these Bohemian wars, need produce: for such a story rather relates, then proves; and beside, here are diverse letters coppyed out, and letters be the very linings and insides of Stories: and this way too, this Apology gives these Readers best satisfaction Yet for one favour, I must appeal to thee Gentle and Courteous Reader, for so I hope even (in this point) to find the first sort of these Readers; because what I entreat, although it goes with the history yet it is beside the scope of it, which is the thing they only malign: I mean to crave your favourable censures, for the rudeness of the Style. For we Bohemians (next our vulgar) more frequently use the neighbour Italian speech: but because the camp (whither this is chiefly sent) compounded of diverse Nations, best understand one another in the French, I have therefore wrote it in that language wherein I was less perfect. But marvel not if we Swordmen who use to hue out our way, now and then hack at a word: a soldiers writing style, is his stiletto, and when we parley, we send summons, not orations, and their own necessity persuades the vanquished to yield, and not the victor's Rhetoric: but if it be plain, plainness best sets forth truth, as this is. And peradventure it will be the better thought to be so, for the Author profession: for a soldier as much scorns to give the lie, as to take it. Seeing then this brave man's Fame hath been put to his compurgators: I, who have been a witness of all I writ, come in here as one of the jurors, and upon mine own knowledge deliver the truth, and (willingly) nothing but the truth: and to this I swear, and you here see I lay my hand upon the book. Farewell, and listen after him, his own Actions shall next make their own Apology, or need none.  
S. W.   

AN APPOLLOGIE MADE IN DEFENCE OF THE ILLUSTRIOUS PRINCE, ERNESTUS Earl of MANSFIELD, Marquis of castle NOVO, and BONTIGLIERE, Baron of HELDRUNGEN, Martial of the Army of BOHEMIA, and the Provinces Incorporated thereunto, etc.  
PAssion is a most strange and wonderful thing; it is a malady and sore disease of the soul, which hindereth the functions of judgement, and a mist darkening the eyes of the Spirit, making things to seem otherwise, and contrary unto that which in effect they are. Love the most violent passion of all others, thinketh that which is evil favoured to be fair, and that which is wicked to be good. Scilicet insano nemo in amore videt, hatred, Envy, and evil will, contrary passions, produce contrary effects, and cause that which is good, virtuous, and commendable, to appear and show to be evil, vicious and worthy of blame. From thence, Ingratitude, bad speeches, and slander, (accursed Daughters of such wicked Mothers) which satisfy and feed themselves with evil, as the Spider doth with the poison which she sucketh out of all sorts of Flowers, and that from the best, like these who blame and dispraise all sorts of actions, yea and those that are most commendable. Lycurgus, so excellent a person, that the Oracle of Apollo was in doubt and made question, whether it should place him among the rank of the Gods or of Men, what did not he do for the good and benefit of his native Country? and for the welfare of his fellow Citizens? but in the mean time, they being led and carried away by this disease, in stead of acknowledging his benefits imparted unto them, sought to do some mischief unto him, charged him with many Injuries and blows, and finally banished him out of his Country. The like in a manner happened unto Scipio, he I say, who by the ruin of the Carthagian Empire, strengthened the foundation of the Roman Commonwealth, his bones could find no rest in that place, whereunto he had procured the same. Charles Duke of Bourbon one of the most brave and valiant Princes that France ever brought forth (worthy in truth to have Descended out of that most Illustrious house, and of a better Fortune, if it had pleased God to have granted him that favour, as well as he had endowed him with great and rare Virtues, by diverse and good effects witnessed and set forth the greatness of his Courage, and the affection that he bore unto the King his Master. He delivered Dision from the siege that the Swissers laid about it: took Milan out of their hands: And which is more, advanced the Victory, which the King had against them in the Battle of Marignan. For all which his Noble actions, and many other eminent Services which he did for him, yet he could not obtain his favour. But to the contrary, the further that he proceeded, still he found himself to be further from it: Passion having in such manner possessed the King's mind, that he could not see nor behold the said Princes merits, much less acknowledge them: so that in the end, after he had many years patiently borne and supported all the indignities, that Envy, hatred, and evil will could or might suggest, Falling into despite and Despair, he ran headlong into his own ruin, at the hazard of the affairs of him that was the cause thereof. These are examples of times past; and now behold one of the present time, an Example, which serveth for the subject of this Apology.  
The most Illustrious Prince, Ernestus Earl of Manssield, Marquis of Castle Novo, and Bontighere, Baron of Heldrungen, and great Marshal of the Army Royal, of the Kingdom of Bohemia, and the Provinces incorporated thereunto, having had that happy success, to make his Valour and Fidelity known unto the Son of Mars, S. A. S. of Sanoy: having borne his Arms into Bohemia, for the service of that Crown, made great offers unto the same, exposed his life and means for the good thereof, and to conclude, having done all that, which a great and Valiant Knight of his profession could or might do. Behold certain evil willers, transported by the violence of her accursed passions, set upon him, and covertly underhand seek to undermine the foundations of his Reputation, to make his whiteness seem black, and his fidelity suspicious, blaming him, as if he had had some intelligence with the Enemy, that he would take his part, and afterward sell the Town of Pilsen when it was besieged, unto him for money. And in a word, they charge him with Treason, in stead of recompensing him for his Fidelity. The rumour whereof spread abroad throughout all the Country of Bohemia, Germany, Italy, and France, and in all other places, Time certainly is the mother of Truth, which at the last although it be hidden and covered by obscurity, cometh forth into the light Veritatem tempus in Lucem eruit, saith an Ancient wise man. But in the mean time, he that is bitten and wounded by slander, cannot choose but feel the pangs thereof, yea and in a manner dye with grief (if it be great) if no remedy be procured for the same. Now as great and valiant Courages, are hardened in greatest dangers, and apprehend no peril, so they pass not greatly, neither yet any whit esteem of her wounds: accounting them to be the same, which they receive by the Arms of Mars. But seeing that experience, and the Examples of times passed make us see and find the contrary, and that it is a dangerous thing, to seek to defend ourselves against Slander, only with the buckler of patience, it is requisite to proceed with Arms, and to fight against this fury in the genesis thereof. All other Arms, the more they are distant from the hand from whence they were sent, so much the more violence and force they lose. But those of slander are clean contrary, for the further they are from the hand, so much the more force they have, and fear nothing more than to meet and encounter at handy blows with the party. Then in stead of flying from them, we must approach near unto them, we must cast off our Doublets and show them our naked breasts. That is the buckler, and the Target of steel, which wholly and utterly repulseth them. That is it which we shoot at in this Apology, we seek to defend the Innocency of the said Prince, against the Impostures of this infernal fury, and to that end we will produce him in open Field by the representation of his valorous exploits, and by his own permission, we will open his Doublet, and let you see his naked breast, a white breast, which never was made black with Infidelity, nor stained with the colour of the Indian Sun. As men know a Tree by the fruit, so we know a man by his works. It is his actions that we mean, which we will make to appear (at the least in such, wherein he hath had a part during this War) and will so lively describe them, one after the other, to the end that they may be seen of every one, that in time to come they may be known by every man, and in the end be unto him a fortress, against the slanderous assaults of his evil willers. We will begin with the treaty of Convention with the States of Bohemia made with him, and will set it down in English, to serve for a frontispiece, and a foundation of this work. The tenure whereof, is as followeth.  
We N. N. N. N. the Directors and Counselors of the Realm of Bohemia, thereunto Deputed with full Authority and power, by all the 3. Evangelicall Estates of this Crown, make known unto all men by these presents: That forasmuch as the state of the Affairs of this Realm requireth, to provide ourselves of a Valiant General of the Artillery, and a Colonel of a certain number of Soldiers, thereby to strengthen the Armies which we have levied for the Defence of this Crown: To that end we have chosen the most Illustrious Prince Ernestus Earl of Mansfield, Baron of Heldrungen, Colonel of the Lords, the united Electors, Princes and States of the Roman Empire, and General of the German Troops of S. A. S. the Duke of Savoy, and that in regard of the good experience that he hath had in Marshal affairs, as also of other his Noble qualities: and according to the Articles made between us, have made and declared him to be General of the Artillery, and Colonel of a Regiment of Dutch Soldiers, from two to 4000 men: to serve us and the said Lords of the Three Estates, as long as this War shall continue. As by these presents we declare and establish him so to be, to the end that he may be known and holden for the same. In regard whereof the said Count Mansfield, hath offered to assemble his Troops with as much speed possible as he may or can, and of himself to arm them as need requireth. And with as many Horsemen as he can get to come hither into Bohemia, to the place appointed: which when time serveth shall be set down unto him, and at the furthest within Fourteen days, by that means to serve this Crown, and the State thereof, wheresoever it shall be needful and requisite, and by God's help to Defend the same, against all their Enemies, according to the good trust and confidence that we have reposed in him: Assuring him, that we will satisfy and content him, for the said Offices of General of the Artilliry, and Colonel, according to the use and custom of the War, and the agreement made with him, in such manner that he shall think himself to be well pleased and contented. And further, as well for ourselves, as for the said Lords the Evangelicall States of this Crown, we protest, and promise to requite the good endeavours of the said Earl in all occasions, by all kinds of good Offices. In witness whereof, we have hereunto put our Seals.  

Given in the Castle of Prague, in the Counsel Chamber of Us the said Directors, the 20. Day of the Month of August. Anno. 1618.  
THE Conditions that bond him to bring certain Troops thither, within a time appointed, were by him happily performed, as every man knoweth, and the process of the Affairs will make it more evidently appear. Now it resteth to know, whether the said Troops were employed, to the ends pretended; that is for the Defence of the said Crown: and whether he proceeded diligently and carefully in that charge which was imposed upon him: That is it which we do and will justly prove.  
Among the great Sea or gulf of difficulties, whereinto the States of Bohemia found themselves to be plunged at the beginning of their war, there was nothing that more troubled them then the shutting up, and stopping of the great passage into Germany: for it was from thence that they expected their aid and relief of munition, money and men. The Town of Pilsen principal among the rest, and the most important places of that Realm shut up that passage. It is ten miles distant from Prague, upon the great and open way to Nuremburg, seated in a plain Country, rising a little on the South side, between two small Rivers, which flank it on the East and west sides, and join together towards the North, garnished with a deep ditch, and double walls, grounded upon a rock, and full of a great number of Towers, with two fair Suburbs, To conclude, a Town very strong, according to the ancient manner, and found to be such, by two sieges made about the same, which in former time it valiantly sustained: The first against Zischa, anno 1470. the other against the Hussites anno 1434. which continued 10. months, in such manner, that it had the report and commendation, that in 700. year's time, no man could enter into the same against her will. Besides this, that the Town is strong, the Citizens were Catholics, and therefore extremely affected unto the Emperor: as in effect they shown the same by infinite insolences by them committed against the States, whereby they hindered them from the free use of that passage: So that in the end, all well considered, specially the discommodities which that Town brought unto the Commonwealth, The States resolved to reduce the same under their obedience. And Commission was given unto the Earl of Mansfield, their General of the Artillery, who without any delay, went and besieged the same, but yet very weakly and ill provided of all things necessary: having in all but nine Cornets of horse, hired, and some of the Country people, and 2000 footmen, to whom he joined 3. Companies more of 200. in each Company, which he raised during the siege, with some Companies of the Country people, which the States sent unto him. With all them, and six field Pieces, (whereof the greatest bore a bullet of five pound of Iron) he began the siege upon the 16. of September 1618. and first assailed the Town upon the South side, (the Suburbs being burnt up by them within the Town,) thinking to prevail by the advantage of the height, which that side gave him without: but perceiving that it was but in vain, he altered his purpose, and planted his Cannon against the Cloister on the East side, where he began to play upon the same, and to set his Soldiers on work both night and day, and at last made a breach, but so hard to come at, and within so well rampard by those that were besieged, that he was wholly out of hope to take it on that side, specially with those small field Pieces, qui vuol vada qui non vuol manda, saith the Italian: He had written to Prague, to have certain pieces of greater Ordnance, but those being not sent, and perceiving that of force he must have them, or else leave the siege, he took horse, and road post to Prague, and effected so much, that he got two great Cannons, which he speedily brought thither: there stood a house a little beyond the breach Northward, gitturing half without the walls, and the Counterscarp of the Town: which finding fit and convenient for his design, he caused it to be battered and suddenly with those two Pieces, and the rest that were there before, from thence beat so violently upon it, that within less than an hour he had made a reasonable breach. Now in his absence, and by commandment from himself, the Officers had so much annimated the Soldiers, that by extraordinary travel, they turned the ordinary course of the river, in such manner, that they might go dryfoot unto the said breach: a thing which gave great advantage unto the said Earl; whereof he failed not to take the benefit, and caused a furious assault to be given, a bon chat bon Rat it is commonly said; for if they without assailed valiantly, they within as gallantly defended themselves, they without fought for honour, and they within for their lives. The breach was flanqued, in such manner, that they could not get unto it; but in the face of Musket shot, which played upon them, as thick as hailshot. But the courage of that Earl, and the credit that he had with his Soldiers, made them to contemn the danger. And to conclude, after diverse hours of resistance, and when they within had made all manner of resistance that possibly they could, it proceeded so fare, that they began to parley and to agree within the Town to yield, with Swords in their hands, the said Earl making them within to know, that he was as well able to deal favourably, as to take advantage of his victory by force. This was done upon the 21. of November the same year, being the first fruits of his labours, and news that well pleased the States, who thereby perceived themselves to be delivered from that troublesome Thorn in their feet. Yet there rested another, which we will seek to pull out, the next year following, we shall see what it will be. In the mean time the season of the year coming on, we entered into Garrison till winter was gone.  
Winter being past, the Irons began to heat, Mars with his colour every day produced some other new effects. The Enemy than held no places more of importance in Bohemia, but Crumaw, and Budweis, places in a manner environed on all sides with our Garrisons, in such manner, thus to issue out to forage the Country, they must of force be strong, 300. Horsemen, and 200. Musketeers of the Enemy entered into the Field to that end. john George Earl of Solmes, Lieutenant Colonel to the General who as then commanded those Garrisons, was advertised thereof, and mounting on horseback with his Company, and a certain number of Musketeers, went to seek the Foragers, and having found them, beat and wholly overthrew them. The state of humane affairs is subject to change and alteration, and there is no posperity so great, but either it is mixed, or else followed with adversity. Fortune envying at the favour which she had showed unto that Lord, began to turn her back against him, and prepared a cross for him. The 10. of june, anno 1619. she gave him the blow, check and almost a mate. We will declare the circumstances thereof in some sort, for special cause.  
He had Commission to leave certain men in the Garrisons for the Defence and keeping of them, and with the rest to go and join himself with the Army that lay before Budweis: and in pursuit of that Commission he departed from Pilsen, and went to Portewin, an hours going from Vodnian, where he attended for 500 Horsemen that the Earl was to bring unto him; there he expected them from day to day. In the mean time the Generals pressed him to go forward, without staying any longer for them: so the Tenth of the said month, he departed from thence with his Troops, being about 8. Companies of Foot, but not complete, because of the Garrisons aforesaid: and about 450. Horsemen; among the said Garrisons there was one of 30. Soldiers, in a Village called Netoliz, on the right hand of the way, which the General held. The evening before his departure, the Hungarians that served the Enemy set Fire thereon, and constrained the Garrison to withdraw themselves into the Church. The General being arrived with the Army at Zablatti (in Dutch Grossen Lasken) a Village distant about a German mile and a half from the said Netoliz, was advertised by the Earl of Solmes, (who as then was at Vodnian with charge to provide for the said Garrisons) that the said Soldiers yet made resistance and desired him to aid them, to go thither with the Army: my Lord found it to be a dangerous matter, to abandon them, he feared a reproach. Therefore he resolved upon another course, and commanded the body of his Army to stay there, while he himself with 150. Horsemen ran thither, causing part of them to stay by the way, to aid him in his retreat, and to the same end commanded 400. Musketeers to march, to lie in Ambuscado, and to stay his return. He thereupon put forward with the rest of his Horsemen, and met with the Hungarians, whom he valiantly charged, but the first part of them being seconded by a great number of others, and by some Troops of Cuirasses, he was constrained to retire by another way, without having means to prevail of the advantage which he provided for himself by the Ambuscado, which nevertheless he caused to be advertised, that they should slide along through the Wood and by the water side, and so get to the Army, which they effected in such manner, that they safely arrived there, but yet were narrowly pursued by the Enemy.  
In the mean time, the Earl of Bucquoy with the main body of his Army consisting of 5000. Horse, and 4000 footmen, marched forward, following the traces of the said Lord General, who being come to the Village, where the rest of his men stayed for him, and thinking to refresh himself, suddenly all the Earl of Bucquoyes' Army shown itself. Whereupon the General mounted on Horseback, with all his Soldiers in order of Battle, commanded them to make a Fortification or sconce of Wagons, which was presently begun on the left side, but by reason that the Waggoners were put into a great fear by the running away of certain Caroches, it was not made round about as it should have been. The length of the Village was behind at the back of the General's Army, his Horsemen being divided into 3. Battalions, in manner of a Triangle, the better to aid one the other. The Footmen were behind, and the Carriage in the middle, being 4. Companies on the left hand and 3. on the right, and one before the Carriage, all in such manner disposed, that the Horsemen had means to be defended by the Musketeers. The Enemy being very near, and all the field covered over with his horsemen, my Lord General set upon those that were foremost, and scattered certain Squadrons of Hungarians, but the Cuirassiers belonging to the Baron of Walstein coming forward, he was repulsed, and so hotly charged on all sides, that he was put to flight. A little before the Enemy began to give the onset, 50. Soldiers of the Colonel's company that were on the right side, were commanded to go to the General's lodging, to defend it and the little Street between both: but as they went, the rest of the Company followed them by misunderstanding. And the two other Companies did the like, and were no sooner gone, but the Enemies entered into their places: who acknowledging and perceiving their error, turned back again, to place themselves as they were at the first: but than it was too late, in such manner, that they were constrained to look for their own safety: There was a Wood beyond the Village, whether they sought to retire: but finding themselves to be out of the Village, to cross over a plain, They were presently environed on all sides by the Hungarians, and so hardly charged, that few of them could save themselves, the rest were either slain or taken prisoners. In the mean time the horsemen were broken, part of the footmen lost, and the five Companies remaining in great hazard to be spoilt. Carpezo the Sergeant Maior, the Rhingrave, The Captains Haid, Scheammerdorf, and N. commanding them, had the great body of the Enemy's forces before them, the fire at their backs, and all the Ammunition (except some carks of powder) with all the carriage burning, whereby they were put to their shifts, and if they had any blood at their finger's ends, it was then time for them to show it, as it became them: Assoon as the horsemen were dispersed, the Enemy began to set upon the five Companies, on all sides, where they could come at them, and they defended themselves valiantly, as they were in a Garden, having the advantage of a hedge, which was a good defence and safeguard unto them. The Earl of Bucquoy, made certain pieces of Cannon to be shot at them on that side, thinking to beat it down, but he could not do it that day. The Sun shone very hot, and the heat that increased by the fire that burned in the Village, was the cause that the fire which the Enemy put into the hedge, easily burnt: but the diligence of those that were assailed, surmounting all difficulties, presently quenched it. In the mean time, the General, without any astonishment at that disorder; had reassembled and gathered his horsemen again together, and with them forcibly passed through the Hungarians squadrons, and ran too and fro in field, and returned again into the Village, with an intent to mount upon a fresh horse, and to put on his cuirass, being then unarmed. But he found his lodging already taken up by the Enemy, and that side of the Village that was behind at the back of his Soldiers all set on fire: which notwithstanding, he sought by all the means he could, to get among his footmen, but the way was stopped on all sides. At the last, as he turned and looked about him to find some passage out, he was desired by his Officers, to regard the evident danger, whereinto he might fall, if he stayed there any longer, and to yield unto necessity, to save and preserve his own person, and those few horsemen that were left for a better occasion: who seeing that he could do no otherwise, he resolved to retire, which he did with the point of his sword, being environed, followed, and pursued by a great number of Hungarians. On the other side the Enemies did all what they could, to enforce the rest of his footmen, and they for their parts defended themselves as well as they could. In which conflict they continued from one of the clock in the afternoon, until four of the clock, when the Earl of Bucquoy by a Trumpet summoned them to yield. There was no appearance, that they could long desist against so great an Army. But for that the Lord General, as soon as the Enemy began to show themselves, had sent two Soldiers to Budweis, (which was not above a mile and a half from thence) to have some aid, they verily believed that it would come, and therefore would not yield themselves: within an hour after he sent another Trumpeter, that prevailed no more than the first. At the last, between 7. and 8. of the clock in the evening, having spent all their bullets, as also the buttons of their doublets, and their powder, and being out of all hope of relief, they yielded upon condition, and a solemn promise made unto them, by the Earl of Bucquoy, in faith of an honourable Knight, holding his hat in his hand, that he would keep good quarter with them, and release them all and every one of them, paying a months wages for their ransoms. A fair promise indeed, but badly holden. Words are feminine, and deeds masculine: for they being carried to Crumaw, they were lodged, (being in all among others about 1200. hundred in Chambers, by great heaps together, so close, that they could neither sit, nor lie down: and besides the little pittance of victuals that was given them, they gave them no drink, which continued for certain days: which they did, thereby to draw them to serve the Emperor, as after it happened: for when they had endured all kinds of extremities, without having drunk a drop of Wine or Beer for certain days together, the most part of them yielded unto necessity. Men of good qualities, and worthy to be credited, made this report, and withal had the testimony of the Enemy, of that great God who knoweth all things, and of those poor Soldiers, that were dealt withal in such manner. The number of the dead was easy to be known, by the number of the prisoners, the General's Soldiers being not above 1600. fight men, horse and foot: all the carriage was lost, only his own Caroche laden with certain thousands of Florins, that was saved: which was good fortune in so great a misfortune, and which served the said Lords General, as an instrument to re-establish his affairs, and to set them on foot again. This is the victory which hath been reported so many times with great triumphs. The Lord General saved himself from that discomfiture, at Thein, and from thence road to Piseck, and having taken order for the Garrisons, he returned to Pilsen, where by little and little he reassembled the Soldiers that rested of that discomfiture: The more that Palm is pressed down, the higher it groweth, generous spirits wax bolder in adversities. The General was beaten, but not utterly overthrown, and it was not a new matter to him, to know that war is variable: The war is his practice, he hath used it from his youth upwards, and is accustomed to all hazards: and as he is of a prompt and active nature, so he slept not upon that accident, he put that money which he had left to another use, he gave out Commissions, to levy and take up more Soldiers in Germany, in such manner, that in the space of four or five weeks, he had gotten two Regiments of foot, and a good number of horsemen together again. On the other side, the Emperor's Army daily increased, in such manner, that in the month of September, when it was at Miroditz, it was 30000. fight men. The States of Bohemia earnestly apprehending the approaching of so puissant an Army, wrote in haste to the Lord General to come to Prague, with all his troops, in all chances to preserve and defend it from an invasion: which was the cause that he went to Veraun, from whence at last, by order from the said States, he went to join himself with their great Army. The Earl of Bucquoy was resolved to hazard a battle, and to set upon the Bohemians: but the General's coming to join with them, made him alter his advice, so that within few days after he retired to Pisack, where he received news, that Bethlem Gabor was entered into the field, with a puissant Army, to invade Austria, in favour of the Bohemians: So to divert or impeach the inundation of that storm; he went from Pisack and marched towards Austria. The Bohemian Army also breaking up, and followed after him: at which time there was three great Armies all in the field together. I leave the rehearsal of their proceed, unto those that were then present with them, to return to our course in Bohemia.  
After the overthrow at Zablatti, and the Earl of Bucquoy being Master of the Field, enlarged his borders, and took Prachadis, Vodnian, Winterberg, and Pisacke. But then the States of Bohemia believing (as it was true) that when he was gone, It was time for them to repair the ruins that he had made, during the time of his Victory, recalled the Lord General of the Artillery, and gave him Commission to ruin those places again, and according to that Commission he returned into Bohemia, and with the Companies that he had left in Garrison, and the Prince of Anholts Regiment, and some Troops of horsemen, as he marched along he took Vodian, and set upon Prachadis, and Winterbergh, one after the other, and with great agility won them again. I said before, that Pilsen is one of the principal places in Bohemia: and Pisacke, Tabor, Wittingaw, and Budweis, are the next. Whereof Pisacke and Budweis, were in the Emperor's power, the other two in the State's hands. Pisacke being a good place, by reason of the situation, and the walls and Ditches thereof, commanded by a Spanish Captain, that under him had none of the Country Peasants, but good Soldiers, and the time of the year coming on, (for it was about the middle of November) it was more difficult to be won, and it was thought, that that year it was impossible to be effected. And the Prince of Anholt finding that enterprise to be very difficult, wrote a Letter to the Lord General from Ambergh, bearing date the 15. of November, in manner as followeth.  
MY Lord, I am of opinion and so still continue, that your Design will take no effect, for that the time of the year is now contrary, as also that the proportion of the assailers, to the assailed, and the mutinies and Discords whereon you ground are uncertain, as likewise that the Enemies in this season, making you believe their weakness, will have advantage against you. But be it as it will, if you obtain the Victory, you shall deserve to be Crowned with commendations. I pray you let me be informed of your proceed at Nurembergh. If there be any man in the world who with all that he hath, to the uttermost of his power, will do you good, it is he that is and will be my Lord.  
Your most affectionated Friend, to do you what service he can: CHRISTIAN, Prince of Anholt.   

A great courage accompanied with a good judgement, effecteth strange things, if there were difficulties: the Lord General of the Artillery, assured himself to find the means to surmount and overcome them all, and upon that assurance he went to besiege Pisacke. But because he had not sufficient Cannot shot, he sent for some to Prague. And in the mean time while he stayed for them, ten or twelve days passed over. When they were come, the Lord General set them so well on work, that within few days after, (that is upon the sixth day of December) he won the Town. I will not take on me to set down or declare the great importance of that enterprise. I am content to let the Reader know it by the Copy of certain Letters, that were written to the Lord General touching that Subject, by the Prince of Anholt, from Ambergh the 29. of November, St. V in manner as followeth.  
MY Lord, I am abundantly well satisfied with the good news, which you have imparted unto me by my Post, touching the taking of Pisacke, which I esteemed to be very difficult, in so hard a time, and specially in respect of the small provision, that might be sent unto you, wherein you have once again yielded a proof of your valour and virtue, which I have presently made known unto his Majesty, who therewith will be exceedingly well pleased, and have the greater opinion of your Valour. And therefore as well in his Majesty's name, as for myself, I give you most hearty thankes, as also unto all your Lieutenants, Colonels, Captains, and all your Soldiers, for the pains, travails, and other endeavours by them taken and used in the taking of the Town, desiring no other, but condignly to requite them all and every one in particular, for the same. And therefore I thought it good to dispatch this present Bearer, to assure you, of the great account that I make of the taking of the said Town. My opinion at this present is, that you must not refrain to assault the Castle of Straconits, having the commodity of the Cannon so near, and that there is no appearance that the Captain therein, will long withstand you, whom you must not pardon, as you did at Winterbergh. That done, you must look to your Cannon, and if the ways be too bad, you may leave them for a while at Pisacke. But if it may be done, I had rather they should be left at Pilsen, and that they should be kept there, till I give you further order concerning the same. In the mean time, if you can affect any thing, against the Forts of Guldenstein as I have heretofore written to the Lieutenant Colonel Poblis, I assure you, you shall much please his Majesty. And in effect, it will be no small matter, if you can take order there for Victuals and Munition, and that you can spoil the ways toward Passaw, which will put our Enemies on that side in despair. And therewith I am of opinion, that we must content ourselves for this Winter time, unless some good surprise happen by the way, which for my part I will not let slip, etc.  

With another as followeth.  
MY Lord, it is his Majesty that hath written this Letter hereunto annexed unto you, upon the great contentment that he hath for the taking of Pisacke. It is said in Nurembergh that you are able to enforce Nature. I send you advice, etc. I am, my Lord,  
Your most affectioned Friend, to do you any good I can: CHRISTIAN, Prince of Anholt.    

His Majesty the King of Bohemia wrote unto him in manner as folloeth.  
WE yield thankes unto God, for your happy success, and assure ourselves, that of his great benignity he will further show us much more favour, that by your Valour, great Zeal and Wisdom, In the end we shall see all this Realm and Country delivered out of the hands of our Enemies. And as we do in no manner doubt, but that in all occasions in time to come, you will make known the great care and vigilancy, which you have hitherto shown for the advancement of our Service: So we promise to acknowledge your good endeavour, by all the Favours that we can afford.  
Nuremberg the last of November, St. V FREDIRICK.   

AFter all these exploits, the Lord General retired his forces into the Garrisons, the season of the year in all places lesning the fury of Arms, but not the fire of jealousy, which the sound of his happy success had caused to rise up, in certain malicious Spirits. A fire which in time to come will consume many good Designs in the first beginning of their birth, to the great prejudice of the Crown of Bohemia. Pliny writeth of a small fish called Remora, and saith, that it is of such a quality, that cleaving fast to a Ship, though it be exceeding great, it stayeth the course thereof in the main Seas: small matters prevent great enterprises. Our Ship will set sail, but the stinking waters of evil will, will produce so many Remores, that on what side so ever it saileth, it will hardly arrive at any good Haven. The Reader shall see how it will fall out, by the issue of this discourse, then let us proceed.  
If it be grievous to a particular man, to lose that small substance that he hath: It may easily be judged, how much it displeaseth great personages to lose Crowns and whole Kingdoms. It was easily to be seen and perceived, that Crumaw and Budweis being lost, Bohemia would be clean quit out of the hands of the house of Austria. And that how much the more those places were of great importance for the conservation of that Kingdom, so much the more, the Emperor, and all the Princes of that house, would enforce and strengthen themselves for the maintenance of them.  
The Lord General of the Artillery foresaw this, and that to pull those two Towns out of their hands, they must not go empty handed thereunto. Now for that the great Army of Bohemia was in Austria, and he in Bohemia with the rest of the Troops, he esteemed that the conquest of those two Towns was reserved for him, as the rest of his task. In the Winter time he began to dispose of his affairs thereafter, framed intelligences, and lent his Spirit to look after that which in any wise might serve for the furtherance of his Design. But before all things, he sought in good time to provide for the assurance of the Town of Pilsen, and that in time of need he might be furnished with money and men. He knew the slackness of the land Officers, and how hardly they were to be drawn thereunto. Therefore he wrote unto them from Pilsen, to desire them to command the Country Peasants to travail about the fortification of that Town: and to take order that it might be provided of Munition both for the belly and the war, that he might have sufficient Cannon, and Horses to draw them into the field, and that they would send him money, and men to effect his Design, etc.  
They made provision touching the first point, but so slenderly, that in steed of a thousand Peasants, that should ordinarily have been employed, and changed at that work, there was never above 300. together: for the rest of the points, there was nothing but promises made in steed of effects. The Lord General knowing their humours, and that if he pressed them not forwards, the matter would rest there, sent them Letter after Letter, the month of March being almost spent in following that. At last the said Lord General perceiving the season to come on, wherein something was to be done in the field, and that they went so slackly forward, he began again, and writing with the best Ink that he could get, protested, that in case they took no better order for their affairs, that if any mischief fell upon them, the fault should not be imputed unto him: and that from that time forward he would discharge himself thereof both before God, and all the world. These protestations were by him reiterated diverse times one after the other, with as many passions as he could well express. In the mean time, he could not (and that with great entreaty) get but one part of that which he required, and none, or very little money. Their ordinary answer being, that they would take order for the same, withal still complaining of the insolences committed by his Soldiers. He still continued his replies, and touching their complaints, shown them, that without money it was impossible for him, to restrain so many malcontents: and as they required that correction should be inflicted on them for the said insolences, he solicited for the meanes to effect the same. And among other things he propounded a course which is much practised, and common in other Nations, and easily to be put in use among them, which was a Contribution to be raised upon the Country Peasants, offering to make an account of that which he should gather, and to deduct it out of his, and his Soldiers pay. But they (being altogether ignorant of matters of State,) knew not how to accept of so good a condition, much less to effect it. They rather desired to lose all the Country, than a little wealth, and all the body, rather than one member, thinking to make war without money.  
In the mean time the complaints increased, and from thence evil will began to arise, which joining with envy, (whereof I have formerly spoken,) will hereafter produce slanders and injuries, in effect prejudicial both unto the State, and to the Authors thereof. Now as we cannot deny, much less excuse the excess and insolences, which the Soldiers as then committed, and did commit during that war, so it is well known, that it is impossible to restrain and hold them under Discipline, if their wages be not paid them. Neither they nor their horses can live by the air, all that they have, whether it be Arms or apparel, weareth, wasteth, and breaketh. If they must buy more, they must have money, And if men have it not to give them, they will take it where they find it, not as in part of that which is due unto them, but without weighing or telling it. This gate being once opened unto them, they enter into the large fields of liberty: There is no more staying, nor bounds for them; in steed of contenting themselves, with that whereof they have need, they seek to enrich themselves thereby: they take all, force, beat, and kill those that resist them: and to conclude, there is no disorder, which they will not commit, encouraging themselves in their wickedness, by the practice thereof, and frequentation with diverse Nations. The German, the Fleming, the French man, the Italian, and the Hungarian, every one contributeth somewhat of theirs thereunto, and there is no subtlety, nor craftiness, which they know not, and which they do not put in practice to have it. They spare no person of what quality soever he be, respect no place how holy so ever, neither Churches, Altars, Tombs, Sepulchers, nor the dead bodies that lie in them, can escape the violence of their Sacrilegious hands. We know and confess all this, and to our great grief have seen many examples thereof. These are the mischiefs of the war, which makes it become detestable, and abominable. But what? It is not enough to know it, and to complain thereof. We must prevent the same by the true and right means, if we will be exempted thereof. The only means to remedy all such disorders, and so many mischiefs, is Discipline: but how shall it be established, where money for their pay wanteth? I know not who would undertake the same, no not the Prince of Orange, (that great Master of Discipline) himself. In the mean time the land Officers of Bohemia taking things clean contrary, would turn the course of ordinary astaires, and to hide and cover their ignorance, would serve their turns with the cloak of poverty, making a great show and matter of the charges which they are forced to disburse, and the small means that they have to defray the same: and when they are required to pay any money, they make answer, and say, we have none, we are not able to do it. Those that were in this Country during the time of peace, and that knew the riches thereof, can well judge of the truth of such an excuse.  
Bohemia is one of the best countries, that is to be found within the borders of great Germany, rich of wools, corn, pearls, precious stones, and of mines both of gold, silver, copper, iron, lead, and all sorts of minerals, environed with most rich neighbours, with whom they traffic in diverse manner, a country which of long time hath enjoyed peace, and for an ornament thereof, the ordinary seat of the Emperors, a place whereinto so great riches have come and been brought from all places in the world, for the space of these 200. years together. Every man knows the great number, and riches of the Barons and Lords of this country, there being some of them, that possess a million and a half of wealth, besides the riches of the great Town of Prague, without speaking of the rest. In such manner, that to allege poverty, for enduring of a year and an halves war, it is too gross an excuse, & not to be allowed. But to say the truth, (as we ought to do) it is the covetousness of certain particular persons, it is the great disorder that was therein, touching the receiving and distributing of the treasures, which hindered them from paying the soldiers, that discipline could not be established, and so many mischiefs prevented. The good people had made the wolf a shepherd, popel de Lobkowiz, was their Lord Treasurer, all men know his nature, and with what would he warms himself. The three Estates, and the Nobility have sufficiently disliked of his dealings. The children went to fetch mustard. And not to hold you too long with this subject, I will only say, that men worthy of credit, and such as had that credit, to have a sight of the books of account, affirm, That since the beginning of the direction, until the month of November, anno 1620. which is not above two years and a half, the States of Bohemia, without comprehending therein the Provinces incorporated, have not disbursed three millions of Florins. Good God, what a sum of money is that, in respect of the great revennes of so rich and opulent a Realm, as that is? Now let men consider of the great sums of money, that have been levied by contribution in the plain country, and in the villages, let them only set down the contributions of the Town of Prague, and it shall be seen, whether it was for want of money, that the soldiers were not paid, or for want of good will. One of them of the first Estate, (for touching the two other, I am persuaded, they did their endeavours) being asked, how much he would willingly contribute to the maintenance of the war, out of 20000. dollars yearly rend that he possessed, durst offer 300. dollars a year. And one of the principallest of them, that had a great hand in managing the affairs of the Land, and one that could do much, being rated at 2000 dollars a year, was willing to give but 2. or 3. hundred a year. An other of the same coat, in steed of 2000 florins, that he ought for his part, would pay but 500, because (as he said) he had no more money. In the mean time, running away from Prague, after the battle, he left 300000. dollars ready money behind him, which he could not save among other things. What profit did some of them make, of the opening of the Emperor Rodulphus chamber? what benefit of Ecclesiastical goods? I will not speak of the rest. And yet they are poor, they have no means to pay a little entertainment to those that are strangers, that have no part of that abundant riches, that daily expose their lives and bodies, for the good of the Bohemian Crown, and for the maintenance of those, who so richly enjoy the blessings of that country. Let the unpartial Reader, that is acquainted with the affairs of the world, judge, if it pleaseth him, by that which I have said, and shall say hereafter, what is the true cause of the disorders and insolences committed by the soldiers, and of the mischiefs and miseries happened, and fallen upon that country. To that end, I have made this digression. Now we will leave these great masters following their affairs in Prague, and popel de Lobkowiz telling their money, separating the old grosches from the new, to melt and make his particular profit of them, staying for the taking of the said Town, when Colonel Iugge● g●●es him a bastinado, as a beginning of a reward, for his accursed avarice. To return unto our purpose. The General, although ill provided of that which was necessary for him, yet weary to be enclosed within the walls of a Town, and desirous to take the air of the fields, entered into the field, with his troops, and some pieces of Cannon, in the month of April, and marched to Grunberge, from whence he once again gave an other countercharge unto the principal land officers, sharper than the former, but to the same end, and then went forward. There is a Castle that stands ten miles distant from Prague, in the way to Vodnian and Prachadis, near to the river of Moldavia, in a village called Thein, which as then the enemy held, and thereby much disturbed the King's affairs, which he determined to take from the enemy, and to that end wrote to Colonel Franc, (who as then was at Tabor, with six companies of Hollanders) to come with his men, and some troops of horse and foot men of the country people, unto the said village of Thein upon a day appointed, and there to seize upon the bridge, that so he might join with him. Which he did, and all the troops meeting together at the time appointed in the said village, in the morning when the General had given two or three volleys of Cannon shot at the enemy, he understood that some second was coming to aid them, and that the vanguard was already in sight. Whereupon he caused his Army to enter into the field, and placing it in order of battle, resolved to fight, if the enemy would give the onset. Now having stayed in that manner until evening, and no man seen to appear, and considering the danger that might ensue, to lodge so many men in a village, and that the season of the year as then was not fit to lie in the fields, as also the news that came from the Earl de la Tour, who wrote for aid, he resolved to defer that matter to a more convenient time, and to retire to Bekin. You must understand, that in the mean time, the Earl of Bucquoy, that was strong in Austria, held our men at a bay, in such manner, that the Earl de la Tour, who as then commanded the Army in the absence of the Prince of Anholt, and the Earl of Hohenloe, was constrained to send to the King for aid. Whereupon his Majesty gave commission to the Lord General of the Artillery, to go thither with his troops, as he did, but against his will, sufficiently foreseeing, by experience of the time past, that among so many great persons and commanders, jealousy might easily arise, to the prejudice of the common good, and of some of them, as it happened. When he came to Niddreller, a village two miles distant from Egenburg, in the lower Austria, where the other Army was, he stayed there two or three weeks with his troops, attending the coming of the Prince of Anholt, General of all the Army, who as then was at Prague, in the which time he ceased not to write again unto the land officers, and to harp upon the same string that he had done before, withal showing them of the poverty and great necessity of his soldiers, growing by the dearth that was in that country, all overrun and ruinated by the former wars, praying and hardly pressing them to have a regard unto so many brave men, that deserved rather to die in battle for the King's service, than so miserably to perish for want of food. But they were so fare off from having any regard unto his propositions, that to the contrary they sent money, to all the rest of the Army, without sending him one penny thereof, a most great inequality, and which moved him extremely. And to the purpose, I forgot one important thing, which is to give light unto all this matter, but I will set it on work, and place it here. The custom of the war is such, that when an Officer dieth, he that is next in degree after him that is dead, succeedeth in his place. Now the late Monsieur de fells, in his life time being Marshal of the Bohemian Army, having been slain in a skirmish given by the enemy a little above Egenburg, the Lord General of the Artillery, pretended that the same place, escheated unto him, by order of war; and therefore wrote unto his Majesty, to the land Officers, and to the Prince of Anholt, his General, for the same; which was granted unto him, according to his request, and so being Marshal of the Army, he began to execute that Office in the King's Camp at Egenburg, where all the Army was lodged, & continued two or three weeks without any contradiction. In the mean time, one day the General having done him that honour to come to visit him in his lodging, told him, that in truth he had been made Marshal of the Bohemian Army, but that touching the office of the Marshal of the Army Royal, that was reserved for the Earl of Hohenloe. Whereupon complaining of that wrong, he maintained that the same Office had been absolutely conferred unto him, without any other condition, but only that he should resign that of the General of the Artillery: and that if he had been told so much at the first, he would never have accepted thereof, but would rather take his Office of General of the Artillery again. But the Prince of Anholt replying, that then it was too late, because the same was conferred to another: he spoke no more thereof at that time, only to conclude, he desired the Prince of Anholt, to give him leave to departed, that he might withdraw himself elsewhere: his discontentment was great, but that which grieved him most, was, that it seemed unto him, that men made more difficulty to grant him his congee to be gone, then to cross him, and that they sought to give him so many discontentments, that in the end, he should go away with some disgrace, by that means to give the greater show unto other men's actions. Certain days after the Prince of Anholt coming again, into his lodging to visit him, he sought to persuade him, to content himself with that Office, with the limitation aforesaid, and to suffer the Earl of Hohenlo, to execute the office of Marshal General, of the Army Royal; which he wholly refused, saying, that if he were but Marshal of the Bohemian Army, he would go thither, and being there, would obey the Earl of Hohenloe; but as Lieutenant General, and for that there were a great number of brave Lords, in the Army to command, there was no need to take any great care for him, once again beseeching the Prince of Anholt, to do him that favour, to grant him leave to departed. Which he gave him. Discord and misconstring or mistaking of matters among domestical servants in a particular house, are to be desired for the good and profit that ariseth thereby, unto those whom they serve. But dissensions between the servants of Kings and Princes, that have the managing of affairs, cannot but be prejudicial and hurtful unto their Masters, whatsoever Matchiavell and others like him say, or discourse thereof. The Lord Martial being already wearied with the cold answers, and long delays of the land officers, & grieved at the unjust inequality which they used in the distribution of their moneys, wrote also unto them to have leave to departed. In the mean time there was an occasion offered, that seemed to be favourable unto him, which was that news came that Don Balthasar, being only Commander in Bohemiah, and having none other there to cross him, was determined to issue out into the field, and to besiege Vodnian, whereupon the Prince of Anholt determined to send some aid thither, and committed the charge thereof unto the Lord Martial, who as then took certain troops of horsemen out of the Army to go with him. But before I leave the affairs of Austria, I must touch one point more (which I had almost forgotten,) among the rest of those that increased the Lord Marshal's discontentment: our Army was lodged (as I said before) about Egenburg, and the enemies toward the river of Danubia, within three miles of Germany; on which side the Prince of Anholt determined suddenly to assail it. The exploit was well and wisely undertaken, and dexteriously pursued, upon the tenth of june about 3. or 4. of the clock in the evening, & to that end our Army consisting of 18. or 20. thousand men, departed from the said town of Egenburg: and the next day early in the morning, got to Heiterswrf, where the first quarter of the enemy's Army lay, without being once discovered, or meeting with any sentinels. Nevertheless it stayed there, without going any further (I know not the reason why) and from thence returned back again, without performing any thing. Those that then were there may if it please them remember, that the Lord Marshals soldiers, thought then to have set forth, to give the first onset upon the Hungarians, and others that lay in that quarter, as also what was further done at that time. This being spoken to no other end, but only to refresh the memory of those, that then were present there, and know what I intent to speak, it being most certain, that if the onset had been given, they had driven the enemy from thence, and gotten a great advantage upon them. Now let us proceed.  
The Lord Martial having received that commission, (as I said before) made preparation to leave the Army, fully assuring himself that he had already found an occasion, by some notable action to make envy itself blush for shame. It seemed that fortune would favour him, and that from thenceforth he should sail in the seas of her good favour. Yet it was but a vain hope. The Remora cleaning fast to the keel of our ship, stayed our course. The misfortune of our Realm was such, that all was forced to go backward: and the most clear sighted well perceived that hatred in the court, and envy in the Army, would cause contrary winds to blow upon him. He set sail in Inn; took his course through upper Austria, passed along by Wittignaw, caused his soldiers to show themselves before the gates of Crumaw, and Budweis: to break down the mills about them, and to do many other exploits: after that he came to Tabor; from thence he went to besiege the Castle of Thein, which he battered, and after thirty Voles of Cannon shot given against it, won it by composition, and by that means, freed the passage for the King's Majesty from Prachadiz to Prague. Long before he had a design to do something against Crumaw, where he had intelligences and diverse inventions to become Master thereof: and made account to win it within few days, if he once went to besiege it. But two things withheld him from it, that is great want of money and men. He himself, his Captains and soldiers being so extremely needy, that they could not be more. He was brought to such an exigent, that to buy victuals he was forced at times to borrow 30. or 40. Florins. To write to Prague for it, it was labour in vain, he knew their humours too well with whom he had to deal: It was as if he should beat the air, and lose his time, to seek to do any thing by letters. Therefore being pressed by necessity, and the great instance that his officers made unto him, he was constrained to interrupt the course of his victory, and personally to go unto Prague, there to find the means, to minister some comfort unto his Army, and to that end went thither, with an intent to stay there but 3. or 4. days, and then to return again, to pursue his design. But there it fell out with him, according to the manner of that court, that is, that in stead of four, he stayed fourteen days.  
In the mean time, there happened a little tragedy, which I will set down here, because in many places it hath been diversely discoursed of, and specially concerneth the honour of the said Lord Martial. I will tell it truly as it was. I said before, that the States of neither Austria, had entertained one of the Lord Marshal's regiments of soldiers into their pay. This regiment had happy and unfortunate success, as the course of the war fell out. At Langenloyd the enemy coming from Crembs, to set upon him that commanded the same in the absence of the Lord Martial de fells, that was not fare from it with the Bohemian Army ready to assist it. But the enemy charging them with a great number of horsemen, enclosed them on all sides, and put them to flight, even in the face of the said Lord Martial de fells, not without great suspicion of some secret connivance. And here it is to be noted, that the said Lord Martial, bore a deadly hatred unto the Earl of mansfield's soldiers. After that again it had another misfortune at Garst, whereby being some was diminished, and the states of Austria, wanting money, they resolved to discharge it, (as they did) but in the absence of the Lord Martial, who took that their proceeding in evil part, because they had promised, to send the said regiment again to him into Bohemiah, to serve him there where he should have occasion to employ it. The said soldiers went directly unto Prague, there to ask for their pay; where he dealt in such manner with the first that came thither, that they were content, giving to some three, to others four, and to some five months pay, to stay for a month or two for the rest. After that came others, and among them, some seditious persons, that would not content themselves with the former order, but would be paid forthwith. The Lord Martial shown them what necessity and want of money he had: and that he had not as yet received any thing of the States of Austria. But all that notwithstanding, they would not be satisfied, and were most importunate with him, specially after dinner, when the spirit of wine had heated their brains. To conclude they resolved to have money, howsoever they came by it, and that they would not leave the Lord Marshal's lodging before they had it. And to that end at the least fifty of them in number assembled there together, who resolutely determined to stay in his drawing chamber, until such time as he came forth to supper, and not to leave him till they were all paid. In the mean time the Lord Marshal diverse times caused them to be spoken withal, and made offer unto them of several conditions, as also to show them the impossibility that he had to pay them all at one time: for that (as it is said before) he had received no money from the states of Austria. But all reasons and arguments notwithstanding, they would have their full and entire payment: saying that otherwise they would not departed from thence. Supper time drawing on, Two of the Lord Marshal's Captains coming out of the chamber, thought with good speeches to have dispatched those rascals from thence, and accommodating themselves to necessity, make them leave the place that evening, but it would not be: for in steed of yielding, they became more obstinate, and in stead of good answers they used threatenings, and so from words they fell to blows. The Lord Martial hearing that noise, came forth with some Captains and his household servants, that were about him, and set fiercely upon them. Wherewith they being somewhat abashed at his presence, though they were the greater number, began to give back and at last to run away, where many of them were hurt, and one amongst the rest deadly wounded. This was the first act. A little while after, again all the Captains and officers, that then were there, thinking to go home unto their lodgings, and going along the streets, were set upon and assailed by those seditious fellows, and driven back again to the Lord Marshal's house. This was the second act. The Captains perceiving what danger they were in, sent for their Pistols, and making themselves stronger, by more officers that joined with them, resolved to retire in despite of those mutinous companions. In the mean time, it fell out that one of those which held not with the seditious company, seeking to go forward, was by them laid hold on, and hardly used amongst them. The Captains seeing that, stepped forward to aid him, and charged them hotly, they for their parts likewise defending themselves. Whereby on both sides they fell at blows. Nevertheless the seditious soldiers retired, the better to rank and fortify themselves. The Lord Martial in the mean time looking out of his window, and beholding the insolency of those mutinous fellows, went down, and mounting upon his horse, accompanied with his household servants, joined with the Captains, with whom he pursued them, and laid some of them dead upon the ground. At last the King's Majesty hearing of the quarrel, sent his guard to aid the Lord Martial, and the Burghers made proffer to assist him. But fear having already seized upon the hearts of the seditious soldiers, there was nothing else done at that time. This was the last act of that Tragedy, which I have particularly rehearsed, for the reason aforesaid. The 14. days being past, about the middle of june, he went from Prague, having first gotten some money, to comfort his soldiers, with promise shortly after to be better supplied both with men and money. And being at Thein wrote again unto the land Officers, and plainly made them acquainted with the necessity that he had of more forces, to execute his design. But never the less, to lose no time, expecting greater forces, he went to take the fort of Walleren, after that the better to bridle other Garrisons that were near thereunto, and so to prepare the way to besiege Crumaw. Before his departure, the Earl de la Tour sent from the Prince of Anholt, came into his Army, and being come to Prachadiz, the Lord Marshal received letters out of higher Austria, whereby they were entreated to go thither, in respect of the danger that they feared, lest the Duke of Bavaria would enter into that country. He shown the letters unto the Earl de la Tour, and advised his Majesty thereof. To those of Austria he made answer, that being so weak of forces as he was, he could not aid them, but that daily he expected more forces, and that then he would most willingly come unto them; and therewith marched forward to the fort of Walleren, to besiege it, as aforesaid. That fort is seated upon a little hill, just upon the coming out of the great wood, which is between Bohemia and Passaw, at the river of Moldavia running at the foot thereof; at the top of the said fort, there was a small sconce about 60. paces long, furnished with two ravelins, square at both corners, which flanked the curtains of the fort, all furnished with good ditches and pallizadoes, besides the trenches that were within it. In the fort there was about 400. men. The Lord Marshal placed his Army about it, and not long after in the marshy woods, by diligent search, he found out a passage to get near unto the fort on the bank side, and that evening he sent one of his Captains with 500 musketeers, to seek to pass through it, & to lie in the wood behind the fort. The next morning the Cannon was planted, and two pieces and a murderer, were set on work, to hinder those that were within the fort, from fortifying the same. About ten of the clock, the Captain got near unto the fort, and both parts saluting each other with a storm of musket bullets, they that were below in the half moon, perceiving themselves to be assailed behind, were in great fear, and running away, saved themselves in the fort; our soldiers pursued them hotly, and that with such diligence, that presently they got into the fort, and all the enemies were enclosed in the small sconce, well entrenched (as I said before) and in an instant all our musketeers got so near unto them, that they might join together at push of pike. And in the meantime, while the musketeers on both sides, played one against the other, the Lord Martial caused a mine to be made, which the next day was blown up with indifferent good effect, but that notwithstanding, the breach was not great enough, in such manner, that the next day another was begun to be made, and to conclude they within were kept at such a bay with Muskets, Cannon shot, and assaults, that the effects thereof, joining with the apprehension which they had conceived of another mine, the second day they made composition, and the third day issued out of the fort, which according to the opinion of Don Balthasar de Marades, Sergeant Maior, General of the Emperor's horsemen, would have been strong enough to have held our Army before it all that summer. The taking of this fort procured great joy to them in Prague; but it continued not long: for in the mean time while we were busied to pull out that thorn, the Duke of Bavaria, pricked us with another, (having seized upon upper Austria) which without comparison procured more grief unto us, than ever the other did. The Lord Marshal advised his Majesty touching the same, giving him counsel what to do in such occurrents: which because it is of great importance, I will here particularly set down the contents of his letter.  
SIR, yesterday I wrote unto your Majesty to certify you of the heavy news that is in upper Austria. And for that it doth not only continue for certain, but as it is to be feared, that the Duke of Bavaria will approach unto this country, to enter therein; I thought it convenient to give your Majesty this further advice, and therewith to show you what I think requisite to be done in these occurrents. First, I think it convenient, and most necessary, to provide for the defence of the country, whereunto we are not sufficient, when the two Regiments of the Duke de Weinmar, and that of Colonel Grace are come hither. And therefore it is requisite, that your Majesty should hold Colonel Gray's regiment there about Prague, for your guard, and for other occasions, which shall fall out; and also to fortify and keep strongly these four places, Pilsen, Piseck, Tabor, and Wittignaw; to the which end, it is requisite, to put my Regiment into Pilsen, because some of my men are therein already; into Piseck the Duke de Weinmars' regiment, with 100 horsemen, and 100 Hungarians; into Tabor, Colonel Frank's regiment, with as many horsemen and Hungarians; and into Wittignaw, Colonel Seitans Regiment, with 50 horsemen, and 100 Hungarians: and all these to run on that side whither the enemies shall bend their forces, to take breath, and thereby to stop them (if it be possible) from victuals. The rest of my horsemen, and of the Hungarians, must retire towards Pilsen, or to some other part, where occasion shall serve; by that means, at times, suddenly to do some enterprise, to indamage the enemy. All these troops being thus divided, it is requisite, that as soon as they are entered into the said places, they must begin earnestly to labour about the fortifications of the same; wherein your Majesty must spare nothing, and make as great haste therein as possibly you can, because it is to be feared, that we shall be surprised sooner than we think for, and that afterward it will be too late to remedy the same. For the enemy being strong of horsemen, (as in truth he is) we may easily be environed by him, before we could avoid it. And our forces being in that manner overthrown, and having no other places that are strong and well garrisond; your Majesty may well judge, what danger and loss may thereby ensue, and whether we may not apprehend the same mischief to fall upon us, that is happened to those of Austria; specially, considering the mutable humour of this people, who upon this occasion doing something to the prejudice of your Majesty, without doubt, to excuse themselves, will after seek to cover it with the cloak of necessity. But these four places being fortified in this manner, that storm may be stayed at the brink, while the Prince of Anholt comes out of Austria, to aid those that are in extremity. And by this means we may withstand the enemy's forces this year, and in the mean time your Majesty may have leisure to think upon the means how to repulse them altogether, better, than you can do now. For the rest, touching other smaller places, there must be garrisons put into them, to trouble the enemy, and set him on work, and so to win time. I beseech your Majesty, to take a speedy resolution herein. For, first to write unto the Army, time will pass away. And to the contrary, If the Prince of Anholt should not like well of this advice, there will be time enough to alter it, and to join again. May it please your Majesty not to think ill of my boldness in advising you in this matter, danger and necessity joining with the desire, that I have for the advancement of your service, have constrained me thereunto, and forced me to cast all other considerations under foot: as also that neither myself, nor those that are about me, can see any appearance at all, that with so small forces, we may win any honour against so puissant an enemy. Therefore expecting your Majesty's resolution, always unto the last gasp of breath, I remain your Majesty's  
Most humble, most faithful, and most obedient servant, Ernestus Earl of Mansfield. From Protowin the 1. of August 1620.   

This advice was not followed, but to the contrary it was thought convenient, to make a Campo formato. Our Army then retired from Protwin, to Thein, and from thence to Pechin, where we continued all the month of August, increased by the regiments of the Duke de Saxon Weymars, and of Colonel Gray's, a Scot, and yet effected nothing, as being not strong enough to withstand so puissant an enemy. During this unprofitable staying, the discontentment of our soldiers, but specially that of my Lord Marshal, increased more and more: because, that besides the affront that he had received in Austria, and so many vain promises that had been made unto him, by the land officers, he had also been frustrated of means to effect his designs, without being able to do any good for the Crown of Bohemia in time to come. In the end distasting these things, and still laden with envy, he determined to withdraw himself from thence. To that end he wrote unto the King, and to the States, who made him a gracious answer, exhorting him to continue their friend, and not to abandon them in so troublesome a time. Whereupon he sent a man expressly again unto the King, to let him more particularly understand his intent. And in that pursuit diverse messages were sent and returned, and in the end it was concluded and decreed, that the States should in short time cause him to have two months pay for his soldiers, and that generally his soldiers should be used and dealt withal, in the same manner that those of the great Army were: that in respect of the five companies of horsemen that he entertained and paid out of his own purse, seeing that the Earl de la Tour had discharged him of two of them, that the land officers would take order, at the next meeting of the States, that he should also be discharged of the three others; that he should execute his office of Lord Martial in the same manner that the Marshal de Fels did, and that he should not expect any order nor commandment from any other then from the Lord General, and from such as it appertained unto. Whereupon the Lord Marshal resolved to continue in his Majesty's service, until the end of the month of October, and so things rested for that time. In the mean time, this imposture and scandal was thereby raised, that the Lord Martial would turn his coat (as it is commonly said) and serve the Emperor. A most gross conclusion, and such as deserved to be punished in Schools, to say, he will be gone and retire himself out of the country, ergo, he will join with the enemy, and serve the Emperor. But howsoever the bruit thereof having been once spread abroad in the City of Prague, it afterward ran throughout all the Realm, and further, specially when it had encountered with impudence, that met it in the way; and some accidents sympathising the same. In such manner, that in consideration of the force which from time to time it recovered, by support of so many fautors, it was apparent that in the end it would take root in his Majesty's own chamber. But it was so fare from that, that that wise King would not once give it any place nor entertainment into the cabinet of his conceit, but to the contrary did encourage and exhort the Lord Martial, not to respect such evil reports, assuring him of his Royal favour, etc. While we were (as I said) about Berkin, the Lord General thought it expedient to send our Army from thence, to go to Newhats', lest that the Duke of Bavaria (that was not fare from thence) should suddenly surprise it. And when we came thither, there we stayed eight or ten days. But his Majesty and the land officers having a great apprehension of the nearness of so many troops, that yet were in Bava●ia, and that the said Duke would do some enterprise upon Pilsen, he commanded the Lord Martial to march with all his forces (as he did) to divert, and assure the frontiers of Bohemia, against the Duke of Bavaria. And being on the way, he had another charge from the land officers, who (as he had already past by Tabor) made him make haste, with assurance that his Majesty had proclaimed the Ban, and that all the country was up in arms, as also that a great number of horse and foot men were commanded to join with him, by Glats and Taux, which they believed he should find there when he came thither. The custom of Bohemia is, that when the King goeth forth in person to the war, the Earls, Barons, and Gentlemen are bound to mount on horseback, and to follow him; and those that are called Gentlemen in that country, are at the least 60000 persons, besides the Nobility, which are nothing so great a number. Now considering these great forces, and the King's resolution to go personally into the field, the appearance was great, that they would do some notable enterprise. These great composed bodies, have their success & courses as well as men, and are subject to the same alterations and changes. To behold the countenances of those personages, it seemed that they were already roused out of a profound slumber, specially having such an alarm, as the Earl of Bucquoy made them with so puissant an Army coming near unto them. We believed that being assisted and aided by so great forces, we should do miracles. We did then already imagine nothing else, but an end of the war. But parturiunt montes; we shall see that these great mountains of promises, will bring forth nothing but a mouse. In the mean time, the Lord Martial under that hope caused his Army to march forward, towards Glats, and from thence about Taux, to discover the enemy's intent, and to govern himself thereafter. As he marched on the way, and after he arrived there, he caused that aid aforesaid to be sought for, and nine miles all about on this side to look where those soldiers might be, but by no means could hear any news of them: they had quartered themselves in Utopia, therefore it is no more speaking of them. Thereupon the Lord Marshal made complaint unto the land officers, who for an excuse made answer, that they had received a countermand, and were sent to Piseck, Vodnian, and the places thereabouts, to secure them against Don Balthasar's forces. Whether that were true or no, we cannot tell, but it is certain, that the enemy soon after won all those places, as if no forces had been in them. Briefly, the Lord Martial seeing himself destitute of succours, and that the enemy followed close upon him: fearing lest they should take the way of Pilsen before him, resolved to retire, and lodge there, as indeed he did. And thus ended the month of September. He being received, found there such wants and defaults, as nothing more: the fortifications very little furthered, want of labourers, of timber for the Pallisadoes, and of money to supply all: he once again took pen in hand to write to the land officers, showing them of all these wants, and the danger they were likely to be in, if all were not supplied in time: But especially he requested they would send him in some munition, that he might be competently provided to hold out a siege, and money to satisfy the officer and soldier: for otherwise it might be feared, the discontent already they were in, might burst out into a mutiny, to the great prejudice of the place and cause. Of these letters he had a fair answer, but to no effect, according to their custom. In the mean time, the Lord Martial, who well foresaw, that the enemy (who had advanced himself daily with a puissant Army, forcing all the places where ere he came) would not be slack to come and visit him, did not sleep for his part; but made the Boors as many as he could get, to work in the fortifications; and caused good store of timber to be brought in, for the Pallisadoes, and of corn and meal, all that he could purvey. Briefly; he did all that the time and necessity required, to fortify himself against the enemy, who was violently coming upon him. Neither was the enemy all this while idle, but grew stronger daily, by main force making himself master of whatsoever might any way oppose him. Then also Vodnian, Prachaditz, Winterberg, and Pisek, were won with great effusion of blood: Schuttenhofen yielded without stroke striking. The like had befallen to Taux and Glatta, had not the Lord Marshal strengthened them with new supplies, which he had sent in thither to lie in garrison, so that the enemy found more to doethere, then at the other places. Within Taux there were two or three troops of horse, and some few foot, all commanded by the Rittmeister, Claudius Linstaw. 
He is master of all the Cavaile●●e.  Don Balthasar came hither to asseige it, with a great power of foot and horse, and with 7. pieces of Cannon began to batter it, first on one side, and then on the other; they within the Town in the mean time made it good with all their best endeavours. But the Town being hard laid at on all sides, and not well provided of munition, and especially wanting powder; after a few day's resistance, by the advice of the said Lord Martial, gave it up upon composition. Into Glatta, the Lord Martial had sent 200 musketeers, with certain companies of landfolke that were there, under the command of Sir Thomas Ferenz; who was charged by the Lord Martial, not to tire out himself, in regard the place could not be long kept; but to quit it, before he was driven to extremities, lest they should lose themselves to no purpose. From Taux, Don Balthasar went to besiege Glatta, battered it, and took it in by composition.  
His Highness arrived with his Army at Crassitz, five leagues from Prague, and wrote to the Lord Martial the 3. of October, that he should come from Pilsen with such forces as he could draw out, (leaving a sufficient garrison in it) to join with his Army. The day after he sent him again the same command. The Lord Martial doubting his Highness was not throughly enough informed of the estate of the garrison of Pilsen, sent Captain Roy, Quartermaster general, to show him the necessity the place had to keep still all the forces then within it, if they meant still to hold it: offering notwithstanding unto his Highness, that if he would appoint him the express number of men and cannon, which he would have sent, without leaving it to his discretion, he was ready to obey him. The 10. of October behold General Bucquoy and the Duke of Bavaria, with their whole Army, began to show themselves before Pilsen, and very near the Town. The outworks were not yet in case to be defended, nor were there forces enough to man them; besides all other discommodities which use to fall out, where money is wanting. So as if at the instant, the enemy with those great forces he drew after him, had attempted the place, he had certainly either carried it, or at the least driven it to strange extremities. The Lord Martial the more leisure he perceived they let him have, the more diligence he used. He caused all his soldiers to work by course day and night in the fortifications; he enquired, and borrowed money of his Captains, wheresoever he could find it, to give the soldier some content; and did so well and fairly, that within few days, the works were defenseable.  
All things going thus on, the King with his Army was arrived at Rokezan, some two leagues from Pilsen, in the way towards Prague. The Count Bucquoy, a wise and old Captain, seeing the resolution of the Lord Martial; and that to force the place, would both lose time, and many a brave man; cast how to get it by policy;  
Dolus an virtus quis in host requirat? and plotted how to make way into Pilson, by sending in thither K. Philip of Macedons mule: he had intelligence from thence, of the ill managing of business, amongst some principal personages of that party; and of the discontent given to the Lord Martial: and well knew, there is nothing that can put a noble spirit sooner from his posture then envy. Caesar was ambitious, but for that, he had never turned the point of his sword against his native country, if envy had not overcome him. And Charles of Bourbon had never taken a resolution so contrary to his Country's good, had he not met with this passion, the most violent of all others, and which only overbears the greatest courages. He studies therefore how to gain him that was most potent in that place: and whosoever had voices in this counsel, held it so easy to be brought about, that they no way doubted of the issue; yea they were so confident, that a rumour was spread throughout the Army, as of a thing already done and effected. Now, notwithstanding that the bare event might testify Ger-contrary, yet for that it is published throughout all the many, and that there is no biting of calumny, which leaves not behind it some scar, to the blemish of his honour, that hath once been called in question, if presently it be not washed off with the pure substance of the truth; I would not let to set down for the Reader so much as should be necessary, by the true narration of that which passed about this matter.  
joachim de Carpzo, Lieutenant Colonel of one of the Regiments of my Lord Marshal, was yet prisoner with the enemy, ever since the last summer, when he was taken at Glax in Austria. Him they made choice of to be an instrument of their design to persuade the Lord Martial to leave the place to the Emperor, in consideration of the reward promised him, which was great, as 'tis commonly in such a case: in a word, mountains of gold. He, desirous to part from them to procure his ransom, agreeth the willinger to take such a commission upon him. But as the common proverb saith, A thin lining agreeth not with a thin outside. If the Count Bucquoy be honest, the Count Mansfield is just: if the one be quick of sight, the other is swift of foot. He was not so foolish, nor so ill a merchant, to make so bad a bargain, and to sell his honour being inestimable, for a thing that perisheth, to lose in one hour, what he had been so long in getting, with such labours and danger of his life: He had too stayed a judgement, and a spirit better lodged, then to play such a Clerk's trick. The Count Bucquoy thought he had known him; but knew him not. This messenger then being arrived, and doing what he had in commission, the Lord Marshal sent him presently to his Highness the Prince of Anhalt, who caused him to be examined by three persons, set on to sound the depth of this plot. The Lord Martial for his part made this occasion of worth, to do his Master service, by whose consent he gave care to the Count Bucquoy, that he might in the while gain time, and to make his outworks defenceable, offers to treat with him, but upon this condition, that first of all he should see right done to the Rittmeister, Linstau, whose troops being gone from Heiden, in favour of the capitulation of Taux, were spoiled by the soldiers of the said Count Bucquoy, who now the more to further this treaty, endeavoured by all means to give satisfaction to the said Captain Linstau. divers ran up and down about this satisfaction: but so much time was employed about the accessary, that they had no leisure to come to the principal. While these things were on foot, the Prince of Anholt sent for Colonel Pobliz to come to Pilsen, under pretext to view the fortifications; but his meaning was, as a man may easily discern, to get a more exact insight into this negotiation: who being returned, and having made report of his commission to his Majesty, his Highness wrote to the Lord Martial, in these terms.  
My Lord: the Lord Pobliz hath well satisfied the King, who you may assure yourself reposes great confidence in you, and holds you in his good grace, etc. From Rockelzan the 18. of October 1620.  
The next day, he wrote to him again, and amongst other passages, one clause to this effect:  
Furthermore I am advertised, when the enemy shall understand that the treaty of Pilsen takes no effect, he will make his approach to the place, and entrench himself about it.  
This is to show that the Lord Martial did nothing in a thing of such consequence, without the advice and consent of his Majesty, and his General. The same day of the said month about 9 of the clock at night, he wrote another, which I will adjoin, to the same end:  
My Lord: although I am of the same opinion with you, to gain time; yet so it is, that his Majesty after he had deliberately considered, that of all that can happen, this is the most expedient; that you break off the action: and when it be performed, that you will be pleased to send it; leaving to your discretion and will the disposing of the two Companies, whereof you wrote unto me, etc.  
This is for substance the true discourse of this treaty, that hath cast such mists over the ignorant, and given such hopes to the enemy. In this time were presented some fair occasions to the enemy to do us hurt, because of our want of horse, which were all at Rokelzan in the Camp, whither the Lord Martial was gone to find the King, to kiss his hand, and to take leave of his Majesty: following the Articles of Bechin, as it came to pass. The Count Bucquoy perceiving at length that golden nets would not take this Lion; and that it was more necessary to use his iron and steel, resolved to try his force: for which purpose he caused great store of faggots to be made, intending without question to give a general assault. But changing his mind, he rose with his whole Army the twenty one of the said month, to pass the water above Pilsen, and draw towards Sozergrais, and so towards Prague. When he had passed the water, his rearward was lodged half an hours march from Pilsen. The next day the Count Hollach came with all the King's horse as well Germane as Hungarians, and with 3000. musketeers, within one hours march of Pilsen: where the Lord Martial meeting with him, amongst other discourses, propounded to him a means how to cut off the Rear of the enemy: That is, if he would please to advance his troops, himself would join with him, with the best that he had in Pilsen, and charging thus jointly the enemy, who had also some disadvantages, they should certainly beat the Rearward, or at least greatly distress them. But the Count thought it the better way to turn back, and take the passage, to cut off the enemy's way to Prague.  
His Highness being possessed for that purpose of Raconiz, the two Armies hovered some time thereabouts with various success, according to the course of the wars. At the last, coming so near, that it was thought the Count Bucquoy would hazard a battle; his Highness advised the Lord Martial & invited him to come and attend his pleasure, who thanked him hearty, and assured him, that as this was an occasion he had always sought, so would he not now slack to put himself forward with all readiness: for that he should now be assured, there to be entertained in the quality of a Marshal of the field, to command according to his charge; desiring his Highness that he would send him word with all speed, and to rest assured that in such a cause he would fail him in nothing. Therefore to lose no more time, and withal to know the short and the long, presently after this letter he dispatched Sir Thomas Ferenz, with charge to solicit his Highness in his behalf, and to draw him to a speedy resolution. The said Lieutenant Ferenz went thence post; but because he could not have audience of his Highness all the while he was in Racoviz, he was constrained to follow him to Prague; where the overthrow of the Army decided the question, before the said Ferenz could speak with his Highness, and bring back an answer.  
Upon new business (as we say) we must take new consultations. The Lord Martial, having before taken his leave of his Majesty, as was said, minded nothing but his retreat: but this new accident having quite altered all other things, changed also his resolution, finding himself alone in Bohemia (after the other Chiefs had withdrawn themselves) and engaged in honour to keep Pilsen; he cast his eyes round about him, to see if there were any likelihood of succours from any part. His Highness some days after the battle wrote to him, assuring him that shortly he would send him new directions: these he expected with great devotion, still hoping, they would lead him out of these troubles: but having long waited, and hearing no news from his Highness, who after that time never wrote him so much as one word, he found himself by so much the more perplexed. The stopping up of the passage of Germany, from whence he only hoped to be relieved, doubled all these difficulties, which of themselves were exceeding great already. For being thus environed on all sides with enemies, and having small store of munition, and being bare of money, his soldiers ill paid, discontented, and which is worse, without any hope of succours, every man may imagine in what estate he was. To be set to the helm when the wind is good, is but a pleasure, a simple Pilot may then steer the course: but when the winds are contrary, and the seas high-wrought, and danger still thrusting upon them, than is the sufficiency of a Master required.  
The Imperialists being seized of the Town of Prague; reestablisht (by way of discharge) the States in their ancient freedoms; and caused them to write to the Lord Martial, and to his Captains, and soldiers of the garrison of Pilsen, to this purpose: That they would be contented with a sum of money which they should presently receive in hand, with assurance of the rest hereafter; and for this to render up Pilsen, and other places unto his Imperial Majesty. Furthermore, that seeing the King was now retired out of Bohemia, it was in the power of the said States to discharge the said Lord Martial, seeing that they had entertained him of themselves into their service, and it was to them that he had taken his oath. These conditions were taken into consideration, and to say truth, so it was, that they seeing no other means to get their pay, suffered themselves to be staggered with this offer. But the most part (especially the Lord Martial) knowing that these were not the same States that had entertained them into their service; for these were of the religion, but those, Catholics, thought it not his best not to hearken to them. The Lord Marshal brought into these straits, wrote to his Majesty and his Highness, and to all those that might be any way interessed in the keeping of that place, made truce with the enemy, entered a treaty with them, and to that end sent Hieronimo de la Porta his Treasurer to Prague. In the mean time, to ease himself, and to discharge Pilsen of part of the garrison, he billeted some foot and horse in Heiden, a little Town, where there is a reasonable good castle. Thus there passed 5 or 6 weeks, without hearing any news either from his Majesty or his Highness. In the end, weighing the profit that would redound to the public cause by staying within Pilsen, with that which might be made by withdrawing into some other place; he resolved upon a departure, to see if he might either relieve some way the ruinated estate of the present affairs, or else preserve it from an utter fall; he went from Pilsen with the rest of his horse, about the middle of December, leaving the command there to Colonel Frank, and went to take in Tachaw, then without a garrison, and there to lodge his cavalry, as well to be assured of the passage from thence into the Palatinate; as also to enlarge himself, and pass over the rest of the winter, so much the more comodiously. He wrote to Sir de Thilly Lieutenant General to the Duke of Bavaria, and other Chiefs of the contrary party in Bohemia; to assure them, that this was not with any intention to break the truce, but the better to accommodate his cavalry, he wrote also to those of Equer, who wavered already, and inclined to the Emperor, but understanding his pleasure, they returned to their obedience and held firm afterward.  
This being done he takes his way towards Norimberg, with an intention to go to Wormbs, to see the Lords the Princes; but the time being too short for him, and fearing to go to fare from Pilsen: when he was once returned to Norimberg, he dispatched one of his Captains, in post to Wormbs: from whence being returned, and having brought nothing but hopes, the Lord Martial after he had sent an express messenger to his Majesty, to advertise him of what had passed, he turned again towards Bohemia, and before he arrived there he had notice given how all went.  
The enemy prevailing in his absence, and believing perchance he was gone for altogether, wrought secretly upon his Captains, thinking to corrupt them, or at least to draw them to a special treaty, contrary to that which the Lord Martial had begun with Bucquoy at Prague. Don Martin de Huetta Governor of Shuttenhofen, first attempted to draw some of them to a private conference, to which he being not able to bring them, or they at least not at liberty to come out to him, he wrote again to them all in general, and more openly: That upon consideration of a sum of money they would yield up themselves and the place to the Emperor. The Prince of Liechtenstein did second him with letters to the same purpose. The foresaid Hieronymo de la porta overcome by the large promises of the Imperialists, in stead of doing for his Master as he was obliged, did for himself and the adverse party, and wrote also to the same purpose: endeavouring beside to persuade them that the Lord Martial was gone never to return again. This letter coming from the hand of such an Officer, who had so good reputation with them, and meeting with humours symbolising somewhat with his intentions; I leave it to you to judge, whether this did stagger them or no.  

Casta est quam nemo rogavit.  
'tis the trial that makes the man known. This is not all. Don Martin goes further, and mixing rigour with courtesy, the rather to provoke our Garrison, he breaks the truce, and used braving menaces and approaches, and so forced them to break out into open hostility, and made pillage of all he could get, going and coming to and from Pilsen, and in brief did all he could to disturb the said Garrison. For all this the said Captains shrunk not for this blow: but 'tis well seen, by that which themselves wrote to the Lord Martial what they would have done, if he had not opportunely come to them, and kept up the business. See here the Tenor of their letter in their own words.    

My Lord:  
WE have received a letter from your Excellency, and understand the effects of it; whereof we marvel much, that your Excellency will still delay the return you promised us; seeing we have had a hard time of it till now. And for this one thing of keeping of good orders; surely 'tis a thing impossible to do, without money; as well in respect of the officers as soldiers. Our hopes were to have received in present pay every Captain 1000 florins, according to your Exc: promises. And for want of this, what shall we do? seeing the enemy hath sent out some troops of horse on every side of us, and have taken moreover above 80 of our men; although we yet know not what will be the issue of this truce. Behold, 'tis more than time for your Exc: to return home with all speed, lest the counsel comes after the harm. The enemy threatens to keep us in so straight, that we shall not safely fetch in our fuel; and if any misfortune fall out against our wills, we desire to be held excused and blameless before God and the world. On the other side (my Lord) we have here a letter from his Royal Majesty of Bohemia directed to your Exc: but we are no ways desirous to be put upon any service, till we be sure of our pay. Moreover, let it be taken well or ill, we are desirous to know how the King will pay us our old arrearages. For the third: though the King would give us one months' pay, it will not serve our turns, we cannot be contented with two. For the fourth: Forasmuch as neither your Excellency, nor we the Captains, are favoured by the Prince of Anhalt, we will not be commanded by him; considering how he hath dealt with us both in Austria and here: and above all we entreat this; that if your Excellency would not have too great disorder among the soldiery, let your Excellency make all haste to come home so soon as possibly, according to your High: promise at your departure. In thus doing, your Excellency shall infinitely obligeus. No more at this present, but our prayers to God for the prosperity of your Exc: etc. And shall ever remain,  
My Lord, Your Excellencies most humble and affectionate servants, Given at Pilsen, the 2 of januar. 1621., stilo novo. 

johann von Pierriz.  
Leonhard Syrach.  
Hartman Alexander von Kronniz.  
Wolff Sigmund Teuffel.  
johann Grotte.    
Postscript:  
My Lord, this day news is brought that the enemy gives chase to our convoys, others they disarm, and more they take prisoners.  
This letter was presently followed by another of the same tenor, but much fuller of passion. Mean while, the Lord Martial took horse to go towards Tachaw, accompanied with Colonel Grace, & some part of his Scottish Regiment: being there arrived, he wrote to the said Captains, as followeth.  
MY Masters: after you had done me the honour to bear Arms under me, upon so fair occasions, and with such reputation, I was confident you would so well have observed my actions past, that you would not now have come to this point to question my sincerity; seeing that every way you had leisure to know me, that I never sought but the good of every one of you: Yet must I needs with great unpleasingnesse take notice of the distrust you have of me, in a matter of so great consequence as is now in hand: you lightlier give credit to those who apparently seek your ruin under dangerous conditions; then to him, who seeks nothing but to preserve that honour, which you have engaged. If I have given my promise to return, I have kept my word: and see, I am coming, to do the King service, and what shall be for your good, as I myself shall see occasion, without receiving law from you, who ought to give it. I am now about it, nay and have the means now in mine own hands, that shall content you, and the whole Army: but 'tis by another kind of way, then to stand to their mercy, who desire to entrap you. It is I say, a more honourable course. I had once entered into a treaty with the enemy, that we might have got our pay that way, if we could not an other, and have drawn our companies out from thence, where we wanted secure: but seeing there is yet another way to come by it, and that we have the means to get from thence, and that I otherwhere perceive the enemy casts about how to overreach us, I will no more of that treaty. And I cannot believe, that you who are bound in duty to me, would prefer an uncertain profit before your honour, that so loosely, & in so fair an occasion you would forsake your Chief, from whom (God be praised) you never received dishonour. You have in following that way wherein I set you, your pay assured, your liberties and honours safe. Whereas in place of this, from the other party you cannot expect your pay when you are once made slaves, and bound hand and foot, so that you can have no hope of assurance. Add to this the hazard, whereinto you shall run your reputations. Then if contrary to my hopes, you have now trodden under foot the respect you own me, & notwithstanding my fatherly advices, you be obstinate to render up Pilsen, why you may do it: for my part, I will wash my hands, and protest from henceforward, and hitherto, that if Pilsen be now given up, it is against my will, my pleasure, and my commandment. 'tis you that in this case must answer it before God, the King, and all his brave soldiers, seeing that you being not as yet forced of necessity, against all necessity, contrary to the will of the Chief, you give over a place, which you before gained with so great glory and reputation. As for the News from Morania and Silesia, with which they would scare you, I wonder that like men of Spirit and experience you mark not the sleights of a Foe, and how easy it is to forge such subtle lies, to make use of against Enemies. But if the worst happens, what is that to us? 'tis our Honour and our pay we must look after, which we are sure to have, if we follow good Counsel. For we knowing the means (as I said) I am presently resolved to fall upon the achievement, to which I invite you also, That we may hereafter perform some exploit, serviceable to the King and our own selves. And to this effect I will draw, etc.  
From Tachaw, january 16.   

The same day he wrote to Colonel Frank as followeth.  
Sr. the further I go the less I know the resolutions of my Captains: I thought they had taken a good course, and in the mean time I see them balanced in uncertainties, as if they were new comers into the world: trusting to those who endeavour nothing but to ensnare them, as they may well perceive by the Letters of the Prince of Liechtensteim and Porta. If they purpose to deliver up Pilsen without my consent, they may do it. But they shall hazard their own Honours and not mine. I hope as men of Honour they will have in chief esteem that which ought to be dearer than their very Life, and that they will consider what may come hereafter; mean while one may see the fruits of these comers and goers, and what may come of the free access that is given to Enemies. And I much wonder that you gave addmittance into the Town, to the Secretary or servant of Porta, and sent him not to me, seeing it was my pleasure. Thus if my resolution, that Commanding in place of my Sovereign, I intend to be obeyed, (as reason good) and to entreat you to have a greater care hereafter, that our business may succeed better. As for going to Pilsen, I intend it: but it shall be when I think good, and not at the command of those whom I ought to Command, and who own me fare greater respect than that, etc.  
In brief, the Lord Martial wrote so often, now to one, and then to another, and followed them so close, that at last he gave them some assurance. In the mean while, making his complaints to Count Bucquoy, and Sr. Do Tilly of some wrongs done him; In that in going against the Truce, they secretly treated with his Captains, violated his Safeguards, robbed, took and killed his Soldiers: that the injuries (whereof he chief accused Don Martin de Huerta) were insupportable: that he would make himself amends with the edge of his Sword, if they as Commanders would not give him satisfaction.  
Now considering with himself the quality of the place, the scarcity of money, and the small Companies of Soldiers where with he was furnished, and that they had no likelihood so to hold out long; He draws out 3. Companies of Foot from Pilsen, which joined with the English they had brought with them out of the Palatinate, and some Troops of Horse; He left Tachaw, and marched towards Schakenwald, and Elenbogen, purposing to raise men and money, and fortify out of hand those parts that held good for the King, whereof there were a good number in those parts, as Sanzen Grais, and other places thereabouts. Arriving at Ellenbogen, he put to his uttermost endeavours to make provision answerable to his Enterprises. And 'tis not to be doubted, that had he been but a little stronger than he was, and that the Imperialists had given him even but a little time to Fortify himself, he would have strangely increased his Forces there, in regard of the good affection of the people thereabouts to his party, and the Wealth there yet left.  
But the Imperialists seeing what was indeed to be feared, and that this fire must be quenched in the beginning, slept not for their parts, but resolved to go and set upon, and be Masters even of his person, and so at once to make an end of the Wars. They drew out their Garrisons and marched directly towards Heiden and Tachaw, which they took in at last by Composition, they within being not able to hold out. After that, gathering together from all quarters all they could, and growing daily stronger and stronger, they advanct towards Schakenwald to restore it to the Emperor's obedience.  
But before they arrived there, the Baron of Greot who commanded those Troops, wrote to the L. Martial at Ellenbogen, and vehemently persuaded him, to bethink himself in time of his Estate, and to make choice, rather of a good accord, then against such great Forces to weaken himself to no purpose.  
The L. Martial, who knew the benefit of all opportunities; to draw out business to the full length, answered this Baron: That it was not he who had broke this Truce, neither should it belong of him, if it were not continued. And seeing, that he was well persuaded of the observation of it on their parts, he would willingly hearken to any proposition.  
But the Baron excusing himself by his want of power, the L. Martial sent one of his Trumpets to Prague to Monsieur de Tilly, to obtain safe Conduct for William Leininger his Auditor of the Camp, whom he had Deputed to attend the said Sr. De Tilly, about the renewing of the Treaty. In the mean time the Imperialists increased of all hands, taking in daily some place or other, for that the L. Martial could no ways hinder them. In the end, perceiving they went about to invest themselves of Ellenbogen, and that it was not a Town of so great receipt, as to lodge his Foot, much less his Cavalry: and for that it had been too gross an oversight in him, to suffer himself to be taken in such a toil, he went thence the 7th. of February in the Evening; leaving 3. Companies of Foot to guard the place; and withal his Cavalry retired into the Upper Palatinate: having first given order that the English, and the rest of the Infantry, (except one Company which stayed in Peska) should retire into Falkenaw.  
Being arrived in the Palatinate, he lodged there his Cavalry, having purveyed himself of what necessaries he thought good. Thence he went to the Diet of the Princes and States of the Union at Heilbrun, accompanied with his ordinary attendance, with some hopes to draw some succours from them. But having stayed there some time, he was forced to return without any thing, besides bare hopes.  
From thence he wrote to all those that were friends to the Cause; and laid before them his necessities, and the need he had of succours, which he afterward still pressed, and continued always with exceeding diligence; hoping thereby to move some of them, whom the loss of that Kingdom might concern.  
In the mean while, the Enemies prevailing by his absence, roved up and down Bohemia at pleasure; but not being able to continue their Career by force of Arms, by reason of the hardness of the Winter; they betook themselves once again to their Subtleties, the bad affectioned people of our party, leading them the way to it; Hieronimo de la Porta, yet resident in Prague in the name of the Lord Martial; who in stead of giving account to his Master of his faithful Service, to which he was by Duty bound, persisted in his detestable treasons: And as in the former absence of the L. Martial, he had assayed to supplant the fidelity of our Captains, by some secret Letters of his, so now again, he endeavoured totally to overthrew it by his devilish machinations, Ambition & covetousness, having so bleared his eyes, that he knew neither his Mr. nor that Duty wherein he was obliged unto him. And which is worse than all, he went not alone, but there were others beside better practised at it then he, who projected these mischievous practices.  
The Colonel Frank, in stead of obeying the L. Marshals Commands, which expressly forbade any suspected person, but especially of the Enemies, to come within Pilsen, did all the quite contrary. All sorts of people of the adverse party, had free access thither, Messengers, Soldiers, Officers, Captains, yea and their Colonels too, who all went and came freely. He himself went to visit Colonel Lindlaw in his Quarters, without leave of the L. Martial. The said Colonel Lindlaw coming also divers times to Pilsen, was there feasted and entertained by the said Colonel Frank, and the Captains of the Garrison with as much familiarity as could be devised amongst friends of the same party. The L. Martial who never mistrusted the said Colonel Frank, (as indeed he was not yet scented out of any) being now advertised what quarter he kept with his Enemies, wrote to him, but kindly exhorting him to abstain hereafter from such vagaries, as might bring all his Actions into suspicion.  
As the L. Martial was on his way towards Heilbrun, he received Letters from his Ma.tie wherein was confirmed unto him the charge of Marshal general of the field for the Kingdom of Bohemia, and the United Countries: with full power to do all that he thought would best advance the service of his Ma.tie and the profit of the Estates. At his return from Heilbrun to Amberg, he got the wind of those plots & practices still on foot in Pilsen, whereupon he wrote first to one, and then to another, to continue constant, assuring them he would not forsake them: and that he would find the means to get them their Pay, as also to relieve their necessities: Things going thus, came his Auditor of the Camp, who had been at Prague, about the business afore mentioned: who told the L. Martial, that to continue the Treaty, he must have a larger Warrant from him, then that he had received at Ellenbogen. So that the L. Martial caused one to be drawn for him, in the amplest manner that could be devised, and renewed his Instructions: adding to the rest of the Articles, that the Upper Palatinate should be comprised within the said Treaty. And with this Commission sent the said Auditor to Prague; giving him in charge, to sound the depth of the enemy's Designs, in regard of a special Treaty they intended to have with the Captains; And that he should persuade the said Captains to be constant in his Majesty's service. And finally to advertise him carefully of all that passed. This was to make the Wolf the Shepherd. The L. Martial having had experience of his faithful Service some years, thought he had dealt uprightly in his employment, but he had already supped the poison of infidelity, out of porta's Cup. This was verily the same Auditor, but changed within, and quite another man from what he was before. Momus had good reason (in my opinion) when he had considered the stature of Man's body, to find fault that Nature had not made a wicket before the Heart of man, that his thoughts might be discovered. The want of this (if I may call it a want) hath been the cause that a 1000 men have been deceived by these Two men, in whose sincerity they had good confidence; not being able to see into their inward parts, which God hath reserved to himself.  
In brief, the Enemy forewarned by the treacheries of these two perfidious persons; husbanded this occasion so well, that they conditioned secretly with the Captains, for the yielding up of Pilsen; while in outward show they seemed to desire a Treaty with the L. Martial. So as the Captains having already left the party, and gone beyond the bounds of their Duty, began now to speak more openly than before; They wrote, and caused it to be told by word of mouth to the Marshal, that they purposed to expect no longer, but would either be presently paid, or at least be assured of their Pay; and that if shortly they had not a resolution to their minds, and deeds accordingly; they would provide for themselves. The said Auditor after Conference with Monsieur Tilly about his last Commission, returned to the Lord Martial without effecting any thing, excusing it, that he was sent back with threats and denied Audience: For that as he alleged, the Enemy took it ill, that the L. Martial changing the contents of his first Commission, had inserted this last Article concerning the Upper Palatinate, which had no depency upon Bohemia.  
But the troth is; that they being then assured of the minds of the Captains, cared no more to hold on the treaty with the Lord Martial, having held it with him all this while to no other end, then to stay him from going forward.  
And surely to confess the truth, both parties although they differed in their desires, yet were they well agreed in this, that one sought to entrap the other. The Imperialists had two advantages above us; that is to say, Means, (which we wholly wanted) and the absence of the L. Martial, (not to speak of the perfidiousness of Porta.) And thus they got the game: Now the Auditor by private Intelligence, assured the L. Martial of the secret Treaty: and that his Captains inclined wholly to the Emperor's side, making more of every thing than it was: The L. Marshal upon these tidings dispatched Letters into all quarters, and did all he could to procure money, in some sort to satisfy the covetous desire of these Traitors. But all in vain. For that little which he could get, could not staunch their hunger.  
Mean time he omitted no opportunity, which might make for the breaking off of these treacherous practices; which he thought yet had floated upon the waves of uncertainties, and not landed at any Port, he employs all the policies, which his wisdom or dexterity could furnish him with. And no doubt, it had succeeded well, had not (so unfortunately) these very agents whom he used, being before hand corrupted, and made the Enemies, as amongst others, the Colonel Frank and the Auditor, whom he sent again to Pilsen, aswell to observe more narrowly the actions of the said Colonel Frank, as to hinder the final Conclusion of the treaty. The L. Martial assuring himself, that he being a man known to all the Officers and Soldiers, and of good dexterity, would do him able service as indeed he might have done, had he regarded Honour as much as profit. But his ill meaning was to work clean contrary effects. Moreover, the L. Martial sent a Corporal of Captain Becke Baslois Company, with a packet of Letters, directed to diverse Officers; which Packet, had verily struck the stroke had it been delivered. But this honest Messinger was betrayed going out of Amberg, by one of Nuremberg; so that entering into Bohemia he was taken by the Enemies. The Colonel Lindlaw sent the Originals to Colonel Frank, who read them, and sent them back without delivering them, to whom they were directed. To conclude, all things went backwards, So that do what the L. Martial could, the Impostume burst. This fire that had long been raked up under the ashes of Dissimulation, broke out into flames of a mischievous treason.  
The 26. of March the Treaty long a working, was Concluded at Mies, between the Baron of Tilly Lieutenant general of the Dukedom of Bavaria, Agent in that, aswell in the name of his Master, as of the Imperial Majesty on the one part: and the Captains of the Garrison of Pilsen, namely, john Pieritz, Leonard Syrach, Wolf Sigismond, Teuffell, john Grott, & Magnus Laurwald, on the other party. Where amongst other Conditions it was assured, that in regard of their absolute departure from the said Town of Pilsen, the said Captains should receive 140000. Florins of his Impetiall Majesty: which was for the 7. Companies of the Regiment, to every one 20000. Florins. Colonel Frank made this Treaty a part by himself, and got promise of 30000. Florins, in regard of the restitution of Tabor.  
This treaty of Mies thus Concluded, was put in execution without delay, and these Merchants received the price of their cursed sale, wherewith every one departed whether he thought good. 'tis true that the L. Martial wrote to them, even after the Conclusion of this treaty some kind Letters, thinking by fair language to draw them into the Palatinate. But it was in vain: their guilty Consciences had taken away their courages to come before him.  
His Auditor of the Camp, having received 4000 Reich Dollars (the wagcs of his Perjury) which he thought to convey secretly through the Palatinate: verily believing by the fineness of his wit so to justify the rest of his Actions: that the L. Martial should receive very good satisfaction. Covetousness had so hoodwinked his eyes, that he thought all other men blind.  
The L. Martial who had all this while his eyes about him, and being naturally quick-sighted, presently discovered the money; and by the price, judged of the quality of the merchandise: He caused at Hirschaw the man and money to be Attached, and sent out his Process by his Captains: by whose sentence he was Condemned to Death, and Executed according to Martial Law. The Colonel Frank was strangely astonished at the Imprisonment of the Auditor, and became so melancholy upon it, that every man perceived a great change and alteration in him.  
The L. Martial being come to Ambergh, thought good to call the said Colonel Frank, and brought him before my Lord the Earl of Solmes, Vice Governor of the Upper Palatinate, and my Lords the Counsel Electorate, to clear himself of what should be objected against him, concerning the yielding up of Pilsen.  
Being summonned by the Lord Martial, he takes his Caroche and comes thither: but being there he was surprised with such a fear; that without bidding farewell he returned hastilyer than he came, leaving his Caroche and baggage behind him with his Servants. He got to Nurembergh, and having stayed there some time, he went from thence to Regenspergh, and after to Tabor, where he had thought to be entertained into the Garrison; But they within, having before received a Command from the L. Marshal not to receive him, would not admit him. So that having diverse times attempted and endeavoured by all means he could device to get in; at last being unable to compass it, after he had tarried some time in the Enemy's Camp, he went to Prague, there to make his Apology: where we leave him busied, aswell in justifying himself, as accusing others.  
Captain Syrach after the yielding up of the Town, departed out of Germany towards his own Country: and being come near to Erfurt, certain Horsemen set upon his Baggage, and took it all away: And it is reported, that he lost the worth of 30000. Florins, which was all that himself had Pillaged and come unjustly by in Bohemia, and thus is that lost by Robbing, which is got by Oppression, that also goes away by the Fife, that comes by the Drum.  
By these Examples which I show by the way, it evidently appears, that Divine justice follows not fare off to Disloyalty and perjury: But if their fellows prosper yet, they are not therefore quite exempted from the punishment they deserve. He is not quitted, that draws his Halter after him. Every thing will come in his season, that can but stay his time, though God lets them alone a time, he shall not yet forgive them the Debt, but they shall pay the principal, with the arrearages, which it may be will amount to more than they think of.  
Now the Enemies seeing themselves freed of this thorn, and Masters of the place which so much galled them, resolved for all that to drive all the otber Garrisons Royal out of Bohemia; that they might be sole and peaceable possessors of that Crown. To effect this, they went to besiege Falkenaw, (a little Town situate betwixt Eguer and Ellenbogen) to thrust out Colonel Grace, who was in it, with certain Companies of his own Nation and others. They battered and assaulted it diverse times, and plied it so close, that Colonel Grace after he had done the part of a brave Soldier many days, was forced to Treat with them to departed with Bag and Baggage. This place yielded up, none in these Quarters held out but Ellenbogen; a place verily not great, yet well and strongly situated by Nature. Besides, the Citizens who were much affected to the King's party, there were yet within it three Companies of good Soldiers. Count Henry of Ortenberg, a young but brave and generous Lord, by the appointment of the Lord Martial, Commanded the Town in the Name of his Majesty.  
As Falkenaw was taken in the 1. of April; they planted their siege before Ellenbogen the 2. of the same Month, where they lay till the 26. of April, with as much resolution and wilfulness as could be imagined, putting to all their Forces, vigour and Stratagems, which their Courages and Passion could furnish them with. The Cannon played perpetually, Balls of wildfire were fling in uncessantly; they notwithstanding in the Town, encouraged by the said Lord the Count, to continue the Service of his Majesty, were not wearied out for any labour, but the more the Enemy pressed upon them, the more resolutely they bestirred themselves to beat him off; which they did with such diligence, that had they not wanted Powder, they had without doubt, made good the place.  
The Lord Martial, all the Siege did what was possible to secure them, he still giving advice to the said Lord the Count; enjoining him nevertheless whatsoever befell, that in Case he saw himself pressed, before the succours came in; to Treat betimes, rather than be brought into extremities, and so lose the hope of obtaining an Honourable parley to save the Troops, which was a thing he desired him above all.  
At last about the 26. of April, the Lord Martial went from Turchenreut with his Army, which was but very small: with an intent to raise the Siege, at what rate soever it should be to the Enemies: And whilst his Vanguard was taking the passage of Koningswart in Bohemia, Ellenbogen was rendered upon Composition, the said Lord the Count being forced to it, for the wants aforesaid, and some other inconveniences happening amongst the Soldiers.  
The Articles were Honourable, (considering the time) that is to say. That our Garrison should departed with Bag and baggage, Bullet in the mouth, Matches light, Drums beating, and Colours flying, etc. But the Enemy (accustomed to break his Faith to those of the Religion) just as they had served us at Tachaw, so did they them here, for, as our men went out, they pillaged them one after another. So that this particular loss to our people, was no less sensible to our folk, then that was to the public.  
Ellenbogen being lost, the Lord Marshal retired again into the Palatinate, to go on with his levies of Soldiers, and to prepare himself for some better Design: which we leave to others to Discourse off, when time shall serve. And to conclude this Treatise, which was compiled to no other end (as hath been said) but truly to represent what hath passed, under the Command of the Lord Martial, that the impartial Reader may judge, whether rightfully or wrongfully those ilwillers have taxed his Fidelity.  
The desire to make a Discovery of the Truth of these Rumours, hath caused me to make this Apology. And since it is for the Truth, I have endeavoured to follow every where, the King's highway without straying to slip willingly into any by path of lying. I take to witness all those, that have any knowledge in these Affairs, without excluding the very Enemies, whose testimony I will not out of fear refuse in this matter. And if it seems to any, that I have said too little of these passages, or that I have cut them off too short, let them know; my intention was no other, then simply to show the Innocency of the Lord Martial, by a lively recital of all that concerned him: and not to offend any, by bringing in such matters, as might more prejudice a third person, then profit the said Lord.  
The truth (surely) ought to be spoken, but yet in its due time: She hath her limits and her bounds, which it is not so convenient to exceed. It contents me to have said that, which may serve to the conservation of the Honour of the Lord Martial; whom of all other (without praising him) I desire to touch.  
'tis a sign of Poverty to make a man brave with borrowed ; he that is of himself loaden with Honour and Renown; why should I beg for him otherwhere? Of this if he wants more, he will himself better purchase it with one blow of his valiant Sword, than I can give him, with a thousand Dashes of my rude Pen.  
But seriously thus much: Behold him on Horseback with his Sword in his hand, followed by a number of Brave and Noble Cavaliers, and ready to rush into the thickest of his Enemies.  
Take heed you Liars and backbiters: If the truth of my Quill cannot make you look red for shame, the Valour of his Arm shall make you look pale for fear, yea and burst for altogether: Let us see a little what he will do, and by the success of his Noble exploits, judge the sincerity of his Intentions, seeing it is the End that Crowns the Action.  
FINIS.   
By S. W.