Imprimatur,  
GILB. IRONSIDE Vice-Cancel. Oxon. Novemb. 30. 1688.   

AN ACCOUNT OF THE LATE PERSECUTION Of the PROTESTANTS in the VALLIES OF Piedmont; By the Duke of Savoy and the French King, In the Year 1686.  
Never before Published.  
OXFORD, Printed at the Theatre for John Crosley, 1688.   

TO THE READER.  
IT is to be hoped the Gentlemen of the Church of Rome here at home, will give over expecting we should fall in love, with either their Religion, or good natures; if they allow us the liberty of reflecting on their ways of making Converts abroad; and That they will, at length, be ashamed of their attempts, against a Church; on which they could never yet fasten, the least colour of these deceits, and cruelties.  
It's very hard, and even contrary to the ingenuity of Human Nature; and more to the principles of Christianity, to be unconcerned, at the sufferings of those, who are not only men, as well as our selus; but members too of the same mystical body.  
Our Church enjoins us to pray for all those, who in this transitory life are in trouble, sorrow, need, sickness, or any other adversity. But how shall we do this, if we must take no notice, have no compassionate regards to those, who suffer, on the sole account of a Religion, which they dare not relinquish, out of terror of conscience; and unfeigned love of the truth?  
Till those of the Church of Rome do sincerely abominate these principles, and practices; they must not take it ill, if they be often put in mind; That these usages of those, who differ from them in opinion, do unavoidably put a man on choosing, to lie at the mercy of Turks and Heathens, (who tho equally zealous) yet happily differ from them in this, That a man may live under them, though he be no Mahometan.   

An account of the Persecution of those in the Vallies of Piedmont.  
IT'S not our present design to give a large and particular relation of whatever has happened on this occasion: seeing what we shall briefly declare, will show; That there was never a more cruel and unjust persecution, than this lately exercised on the inhabitants of the Vallies of Piedmont; on the sole account of their Religion.  
The Churches of the Vallies of Piedmont, or of the Vaudoises, as they were commonly called, were the ancientest of all those, who drew their original from the Apostles; whose doctrine they have ever taught and followed.  
They had no need of Reformation; having never partaken of the errors and Idolatries wherewith the Romanists have infected the Christian Church. The simplicity of their manners agreed so well with that of their doctrines, as has forced their Enemy's to confess; that this has especially contributed to their preservation. They did not content themselves with a bore not entering into an Idolatrous and superstitious communion; but took all proper occasions to declare their abhorrence of it; with as great courage and freedom of mind, as any of the ancient Reformers; who have all (on full enquiry) approved of their doctrines; as very agreeable to the Apostolic simplicity.  
It's no marvel then, if these Churches, have been ever the object of the Popish rage and fury: if Popes have published crusadoes, and engaged several Princes against them; if several famous Inquisitors have employed at all times whatever their devilish malice could invent to exterminate these poor people; and if the Council de propaganda fide, & extirpandis hoereticis have omitted nothing for the obtaining their design. But here we cannot enough admire the especial providence of God, in his particular protection of these Churches; seeing maugre all these violent persecutions; the perfidiousness and treacheries wherewith their Enemy's have ever recompensed their fidelity; not withstanding 27 or 28 invasions, which their Religion has drawn on them; and the Massacres which have so many times bathed the Vallies with the Blood of the Vaudoises; yet has God still preserved them, by the continual turns of his providence.  
All Historians, even those of the contrary party, are agreed, that these Churches were in an immemorial possession of the exercise of their Religion, before they were under the government of the Dukes, or Earls of Savoy; for it was only in the year 1233, that Thomas Earl of Savoy became Master of the Town of Pignerol and the Vallies of Piedmont, under pretence the race of the Princes of Piedmont was extinct.  
It is also certain, the Vaudoises submitted themselves to the Earls of Savoy (whence his present Royal Highness is descended,) on condition of being maintained in all their privileges. And in effect, it's on this foundation, that these Earls being become Princes of Piedmont, have maintained and confirmed the Vaudois Churches, in the exercise of their Religion, and their other rights and privileges. They have granted them for this end, from time to time, several authentic concessions; especially in 1561, 1602, and 1603, which having been verified and entered in the senate and chamber of Turin, in the year 1620 by means of a considerable sum of money, (which the Vaudoises had paid for this purpose; as appears from the authentic act:) these concessions therefore past into the form of an irrevocable deed, and perpetual and inviolable law; whose execution was enjoined by several solemn decrees of the Dukes of Savoy, from the years 1638, 1649, 1654., and 1655.  
The Council de propaganda fide which is obliged by its foundation, title, and oath, to procure the ruin of those, she terms Heretics; observing with extreme regret the calm which the Vaudoises enjoyed, by means of these patents; took all possible measures to trouble it.  
To this end the Council, which then consisted of the principal Ministers of the Court of Savoy, taking advantage from the minority of Charles Emanuel Duke of Savoy, caused to be published in the Month of January 1655 an order, which obliged all the Inhabitants of the Vallies, to quit the plain in 3 days; and to retire into the Mountains, on pain of death; could they not make it appear, they were become Catholics.  
The Vaudoises obeyed this order, as unjust and cruel as it was: but their obedience, which took away all pretences from their Enemy's, could not preserve them from that horrid Massacre in 1655, of which posterity will freely speak as an action the most in human and perfidious, mentioned in any writing.  
This Massacre was likely in all appearance, to have cut off all the Vaudoises; but there were many of them, who escaping-out of the hands of these Butchers, resolved to defend their lives. They executed then this resolution, with such Vigour and Courage, that they put their executioners to flight, in several rencounters; till the Protestant Princes and States became mediators in their behalf.  
These generous protectors having heard of this dreadful Massacre, were not contented to open the Bowels of their charity and beneficence; but interposed earnestly for them with the Duke of Savoy by their intercessions. The Evangelic Cantons amongst others, sent for this reason four Ambassadors to the Court of Turin, who joined themselves to the envoy of France, who was to be arbitrator in this affair for his Master; all which jointly solicited this matter, and obtained for the Churches and inhabitants of the Vallies, the confirmation of their privileges definitively and irrevocably, by a solemn patent which the Duke of Savoy granted the 9th of August 1655, entered according to form in the senate and chamber of Turin.  
It may seem, that after a patent of this nature, which carries the title and character of a perpetual and inviolable law, given in the presence, and at the intercession of the Ambassadors of France and Switzerland; and of which the King of France had declared himself guarante; it would seem (I say) that the Vaudoises should enjoy the fruits of a peace, purchased by the Blood of above 6000 of their Brethren; but all this could not preserve them from the violence of their Enemy's.  
The Council for propagation violated this patent in the most essential points, and persecuted the Vaudoises by divers unjust and wrongful means. And they offering only complaints against these persecutions, their Enemy's took their patience, for want of courage, and thinking they cou●d oppress them without any resistance, they brought in again amongst 'em the dismal effects of Fire and Sword; and renewed in 1663. the miseries and violencies of 1655.  
The Vaudoises knowing by experience, that the defence was their only means of safety, were therefore forced to stand on their guard, which succeeded so well, that they had procured their peace, and settled their affairs towards the end of the year 1663.  
Then it was, that the Evangelic Cantons, sent again Ambassadors to the Court of Turin, to be mediators of the peace; which Ambassadors being joined, as the preceding were, to the French resident at Turin, they procured again for the Vaudoises a solemn, perpetual, and irrevocable patent in the Month of Feb. 1664. confirmative of the preceding, and entered according to form as before.  
But this patent was not executed with greater sincerity than the former, altho' the Duke had past his word to the Cantons of Switzerland in a letter of the 28th of Feb. 1664. to make it be punctually observed.  
It's hardly possible to describe the turnings and windings, the shifts and tricks which the Council for propagation made use of, to render this patent of none effect to the Vaudoises. It's sufficient to say, they could never have defended themselves against such malicious inventions, had not God, in whose hands are the hearts of Kings and Princes overruled that of Charles Emanuel Duke of Savoy.  
This Prince having nearly examined the conduct of the Vaudoises, found it was without reason they were made so odious; and calling to mind the zeal they had showed in his service in several occasions, especially in 1638 and 1640, when they exposed themselves so vigorously in his defence against his Enemy's, whilst most of his Estates had revolted against him, he resolved to use them for the future as subjects, which deserved his love, as well as his protection.  
The war which he had with the Genoises in 1672. greatly confirmed him in his good opinion of the Vaudoises. For they served him in it with such zeal and courage, that this Prince thought it not enough, to give 'em public commendations for their valour and fidelity, in a letter he wrote to them on this occasion; but protected them as long as he lived.  
Madam Royal his Widow, treated them after his example; not only with great gentleness and favours, but engaged herself by a letter to the Switz Cantons dated 28th. Jan. 1679. to maintain and protect the Vaudoises, in the full exercise of their Religion, and their other privileges.  
We have lightly touched on all these things, that we might not pass the bounds prescribed. For besides that they serve to show, that the rights and privileges of the Vaudoises were grounded on unmovable foundations; and that their Enemy's have ever violated the most solemn and authentic engagements, and only exercised cruelties, injustices, and perfidiousnesses against them; They likewise serve to justify the conduct, which the Vaudoises have observed to the end; which is properly the subject of this relation.  
The Vaudoises had flattered themselves, that under the government of the Duke of Savoy now reigning, they might enjoy some hopes of tranquillity. They had done him very considerable services in 1684. in the war against the Banditi of Mondovi. And this Prince had given them authentic assurances of his satisfaction, & good will towards them, in a letter he wrote to them on this occasion; and the beginnings of his reign seemed to promise them for the future, that in rendering to Cesar that which is Cesar's, they should have the liberty of rendering to God what belonged to him. They fed themselves with these hopes, when the Governor of the Vallies of Piedmont published towards the end of the year 1685 an order, forbidding all strangers to inhabit in these Vallies, and to remain therein more than 3 days without his leave, and also the inhabitants to entertain or lodge them under grievous penalties.  
The Vaudoises, had by this time been informed of the violences offered in France, to force the Protestants to change their Religion: They farther understood that the King of France had cancelled the edict of Nants, and they well perceived this prohibition of sheltering their brethren might prove of dangerous consequence to them. But they did not foresee the miseries which have happened to them, because men do naturally love to flatter themselves, and their Enemy's used all endeavours, to remove out of their minds all the thoughts which fear might inspire them with, to the end they might be taken unprovided.  
They were in this condition, when his Royal Highness orders were proclaimed in the Vallies, being the 31st of Jan. 1686. which strictly forbade the exercise of their Religion on pain of death, and confiscation of their estates; enjoining all their Churches to be demolished, and the banishment of all the Ministers; that the Infants should be Baptised and brought up in the Popish Religion, on penalty of their Fathers being sent to the Galleys, with many other particulars, to the same purpose, as the King of France's declaration, which annulled the edict of Nants.  
It's impossible to describe the Vaudoises fears and griefs, at the news of so surprising an order, so much more terrible than the former, as being to produce such tragical effects. For the preceding tended only to bond them in more narrow limits, and to deprive them of the right of inhabiting the plain, which they had done time out of mind; but the order of the 31 of Jan. wholly took from them all liberty of conscience, and exercise of their Religion.  
They saw themselves immediately precipitated into a dreadful abyss of miseries, without any remedy; and forced to behold either the light of the Gospel extinguished in the Vallies, which had there shined for so many ages, or the renewing those cruel Massacres, which has sacrificed so many of their Brethren: yet being persuaded this order was the effect of some misrepresentation of them by their Enemy's to his Highness, they betook themselves to their usual course of supplications, and humble remonstrances; and presented four requests to the Duke of Savoy, to obtain the revocation of this order. But gaining only some time in the execution of it, they saw their misfortune was without remedy. And they were more confirmed in the assurances of their miseries, when they understood the King of France (who on politic reasons had always protected them, and even declared himself the gardante of the patents aforementioned) had not only obliged the Duke to issue forth this order; but that his most Christian Majesty had caused his Troops to advance to Piedmont to see it executed.  
Then it was, that the Vaudoises began to think of defending themselves from the Invasions of these Foreigners, and not to die like Beasts or fools.  
In the mean time the Evangelic Cantons being informed of this order, and the measures taken for its execution, believed themselves no ways obliged to forsake a people persecuted for mere Religion, and that they ought to appear on this occasion as heretofore.  
It was resolved then in an assembly held at Baden in the month of Feb. 1686. to send again Ambassadors to the Duke of Savoy to intercede in the behalf of the Vaudoises: who arrived at Turin in the beginning of March, and offered their request, tending to the revocation of the order set forth in the 31 of Jan. They showed, That the Evangelic Cantons were interessed in this affair, not only as being of the same belief, as the Vaudoises; but for that the Patents of 1655 and 1633. which this order annulled, were the fruits of their mediation; and they accompanied these their demands with several solid Arguments.  
The Court of Turin pretended not to answer their reasons, thinking it enough to tell the Ambassadors, that the engagements of the Duke of Savoy, with the King of France, were directly opposite to the success of their negotiation. Which obliged the Ambassadors to remonstrate, in a memorial for this purpose, That his Royal Highness' Predecessors having given their Royal word to several States, and particularly to the Evangelic Cantons, for the executing the Patents granted to the Vaudoises, he could not renounce such formal engagements, because these Patents were not mere tolerations, but perpetual Concessions, and inviolable laws; and for as much also that they having been granted at the request of several Princes, they be, according to the law of Nations, lasting Monuments of public faith; in that the words of Princes should be Sacred and inviolable.  
They also showed, that several politic respects should induce the Duke of Savoy to maintain the Vaudoises in their privileges: That it consisted not with his justice and bounty to suffer his Countries to be filled with blood and slaughter; by destroying a people, who implored his grace and Clemency; and who had done nothing deserving these severities.  
But neither the reasonings of the Ambassadors, nor their pressing solicitations, nor the letters of intercession, which several Protestant Princes wrote again in favour of these poor people, produced any effect. They serving only to confirm the Ambassadors in their belief, of the engagements wherein the Duke of Savoy had entered with the King of France, to destroy the Protestant Religion.  
All this while the Vaudoises were ignorant of what passed in Turin. They knew nothing of the Ambassadors being at Court, nor their Transactions; because care was taken to stop two Messengers in their passage, who were to carry the news into the Vallies. It's true indeed they knew sometime after, by a common report, that these Ambassadors were at Turin to demand the revocation of the order of the 31 of January; but they could hear nothing certain, touching the effect of their Negotiation. They durst not go themselves to Turin, since the time allowed them was expired, and for that the Court had refused a safe conduct, which the Ambassadors had desired for the deputies of the Vallies appearance, to solicit their own affairs, as was practised in former occasions.  
However the Vaudoises had fortified themselves with some Retrenchments in their Country, and stood on their guard, to hinder the entrance of the Troops, most of which were already encamped, at the foot of the Vallies.  
The Duke of Savoy returned answer to the Ambassadors proposals, by the Marquis of St. Thomas, one of his Ministers of State; who has the management of Foreign affairs; and who swore to them, that the Duke could not revoke this order, he not being the master of this affair.  
He also protested to them, as from the part of his Highness, that provided the order was executed, the Duke would not refuse to enter into some expedients. He also showed them that on their account, the Vaudoises should have leave to depart the Country, and dispose of their estates.  
The Ambassadors thinking the Vaudoises, having neither Officers nor Troops, could not sustain a war, against two such powerful enemies, as the King of France and the Duke of Savoy, who were united for their destruction; They imagined then, that to avert the Tempest, with which these poor people were threatened, they ought to solicit their departure, and disposal of Estates. But forasmuch as before they could enter on this Negotiation, they must consult those of the Vallies; the Ambassadors therefore got leave of the Court of Turin, that they might take a Journey thither; for which purpose, they had a Letter from the Duke, to the Governor of the Vallies.  
The Ambassadors arrived there the 22 of March, and the next Morning caused an Assembly of the people's Deputies, to be summoned, to whom they declared, what they had done. In fine, they showed them, that in the condition they were in, deprived of all hope of succour; they had no other part to take, but that of leaving their Country; provided it could be obtained with the disposal of their Estates; and if they would accept of this proposal, they would offer it as from them.  
The Vaudoises deputies greatly surprised, that they must expect no succour, in an occasion wherein they hoped all the Protestant States would concern themselves; answered the Ambassadors they were sensible they could not do better than to follow their advice; but before they could resolve on an affair of this importance, they must consult a general assembly.  
In the mean time the Ambassadors returned to Turin, where they informed the Marquis of St. Thomas of the success of their Journey, who assured them this Negotiation was very agreeable to the Court. They afterwards desired a passport to bring thither some of the inhabitants of the Vallies, with the determinations of this Assembly. But this was refused them under two pretences, the first, that the Duke of Savoy would have no Vaudoise to be seen following his Court; and the other was, that he would not have it thought, that what he did, was out of any other respect than the gratifying the Ambassadors. They were then obliged to send into the Vallies the Secretary of the Embassy, to fetch these people's determinations.  
The Secretary found the people assembled at Angrogne the 28 of March, being much divided in their resolutions; for if on the one hand, they saw the dreadful consequences of this War; so on the other the dangers and insuperable difficulties in departing the Country; which supposing they could do, without any danger, yet they could not, without great regret, leave their Estates and Country, to travel to Foreign parts; where they must lead a vagrant and uneasy life.  
In fine they agreed to send a memorial to the Ambassadors, of the dangers and difficulties, which hindered their passage; and to write them a Letter signed by nine Divines, and eight of the Laity, in which having entreated them to reflect on these obstacles, they declared, they would remit themselves to their prudence and conduct.  
On this Letter the Ambassadors endeavoured to obtain leave for the Vaudoises, to leave the States of Piedmont, and to dispose of their goods; But the Duke of Savoy, to whom the proposal was carried, sent word to them, that before he could give a positive answer to what they desired, he expected the people of the Vallies should send Deputies to him, with full power to make him those submissions, which were due to him; and to beg leave of him to withdraw from his States, as a favour which they implored of their Prince.  
The Ambassadors might well be surprised at this alteration of the Scene; having been refused the safe conduct which they had a little before requested, to bring the Vaudoise Deputies to Turin. They had binseveral times told, that the grant of a Retreat to the Vaudoises should be wholly in consideration of the Ambassadors. Whereas now, it must not be the Ambassadors, who demand the leave, as a proposal coming from them; but it must on the contrary be the Vaudoises, who make this request themselves.  
This contrary course was not without some reason; For the Council of propagation who managed this affair, had without doubt these two several considerations; The one, that they would not have the Ambassadors named in the permission of departure, that they might have less right to demand the execution of the things promised to the Vaudoises; The other, that the Vaudoises alone requesting this permission, as a grace, or favour, they might impose on them such conditions, as they pleased; and lastly, that the Vaudoises making the submissions which the Duke required, they must appear in the condition of supplicants, and consequently lay down their arms, otherwise they could not be received, as such.  
But however it was, the Ambassadors being desirous to take away all pretence from the Vaudoises Enemy's, took the safe conduct, and sent it by the secretary of the Embassy; who assembled the people for the naming their deputies. But as on the one hand, there were several, who never designed to leave their Country; so on the other, the sudden march of their Enemy's, filled them with suspicions and contrary opinions; so that the resolutions given into their Deputies, proved quite different. For some were for requesting the permission of retiring from the Country, and disposing of their estates; and others for petitioning, that they might have the free exercise of their Religion, and enjoyment of their other rights and privileges.  
These Deputies being come to Turin, the Ambassadors thought it not fitting, they should appear at Court thus divided; they sent them therefore back again to the Vallies to be united, and laboured in the mean while to get a farther delay.  
Their Enemy's apprehended with great satisfaction the divisions, about leaving the Country; and were so well persuaded this would be an infallible means to ruin them; that they sent persons expressly amongst them, to keep up this contrariety of determinations. It's also to be presumed, they had devised this expedient, touching the departure; as a means to disunite the Vaudoises.  
To make then the greater advantage of the different resolutions of these people, their Enemy's altered again their design. They had lately before declared, they expected first that the Vaudoises themselves should sue for leave to depart, and to offer their submissions. The Vaudoises had not made these submissions, nor presented their petition for a departure; there being several amongst them, who never yet resolved to leave the Country; neither did the Ambassadors solicit the permission of departure, but a delay, as appears from a letter which they wrote to the Marquis of St. Thomas the 8 of April 1686. However to complete the division of the Vaudoises; to destroy them with greater ease, there suddenly issued out, unknown to the Ambassadors, an edict of the 9th of the same Month of April, which granted to the Vaudoises a pardon and leave to retire out of the Countries of Piedmont. But to the end we may the better judge of the design of the Council of propagation, here's a copy of this edict translated out of Italian.  
The Divine Providence in setting Princes over the people has put into the hands of the former, the distribution of rewards and punishments, that the hope of the first, may encourage the good; and the fear of the latter restrain the wicked. Nothing but vengeance ought to fall from us on the heads of the people of the Vallies of Lucerna, who are of the pretended reformed Religion; seeing its apparent, they have not only obstinately disobeyed our order of the 31 of Jan. last, but moreover hardened themselves in their crime, and fallen into the excesses of an enormous and execrable Rebellion. Yet our natural clemency, surpassing their crime; and not contenting our selus with the Fatherly forbearance, with which we have for so long time expected, in vain, their repentance; we would also leave it again to their own will; who have hitherto been wickedly resolved, the choice of an happy or miserable condition, and open to 'em again the door of our mercy, in the manner following, whereto if they do not submit, by a ready obedience, they must impute to their obstinacy the punnishments they shall incur, without remission, from our provoked patience.  
And therefore in confirmation first of our declaration of the 31 of Jan. last, we have by virtue also of these presents, of our own certain knowledge, full power and absolute authority, and by the advice of our Council, commanded all our subjects of the Vallies of Lucerna, making profession of the Reformed Religion, to lay down their arms, and return to their habitations, in the term hereafter prescribed.  
We also command them to make no more assemblies, and public meetings, on any account whatever; to the end, that according to our intention, the judges may have free passage, and the Father missionaries, and other religious persons, may return to the Churches, whence they have been driven.  
And it being unreasonable, that the Religious missionaries, Catholics and Catholickised, should suffer by any damages they have received, by those of the pretended reformed Religion; we therefore command and strictly charge, that the necessary sums to indemnise them, shall be indistinctly levied from the goods and estates of the said pretended reform; as it shall be summarily adjusted, before Mr. Mouroux Superintendant of the Courts of justice in the Vallies. Yet declaring, that in case those of the pretended reformed Religion shall make it appear, that these damages have been occasioned by some particular persons, they shall have remedy and amends from the aforesaid particular.  
And to show our said subjects, how great our clemency is towards them, we permit those who intent to leave our Countries, to do it within the term, and according to the conditions hereafter prescribed.  
But forasmuch as their maliciousness; has too plainly showed itself, by their past demeanour; and that several may conceal their wicked designs, under a false colour of obedience, we reserve, besides those who shall leave our Countries, of their own will, to enjoin it to others, as we think fitting; and according as we shall find it expedient to secure the peace to those, who shall stay behind; to whom we shall prescribe the rules they are to observe for the future.  
And as a greater proof of our favour, we grant, as well to those who shall of their own will retire, as those who shall depart by our orders, to carry with them their goods and effects, and to sell them if they think fit, however in the manner hereafter prescribed,  
The same shall extend to foreigners, and such as are born of them, who shall conform themselves to the last article contained in the declaration of the 31 of Jan. above cited.  
The aforesaid sale of goods must be made to Catholics and Catholicised persons; but because there may not perhaps be found Chapmen in the term hereafter prescribed, and we not intending that the Religionaries, who shall depart our Countries, shall lose the benefit of our present concession, they may therefore choose five or six persons, to whom they may make over their Estates, and who may remain by our Licence in Lucerna in all liberty, for three Months, to treat and bargain with any one, and sell the Estates of such as are gone; who shall have leave to prescribe in their letters of Attorney, the rate at which they value their goods, and to have all due returns made them, without fraud or delay; the superintendancy of which affair shall be committed to our chief Justice Mr. Mouroux.  
Those who would retire, shall be obliged to repair respectively to the places, and at the time hereafter specified, to be ready to depart, without Arms, by the way which shall be denoted to them; either thro' Savoy, or the Vale of Aoste. For this effect a passport and Letter of safe conduct shall be granted them, to prevent all ill usage, and hindrances in our Dominions. And for as much as being in great numbers, they may be exposed to several inconveniencies in the way, and places, through which they shall pass with their luggage; they shall therefore consist of three companies. The first which shall be those of the Valley of Lucerna, must repair to the Tower, to set forth immediately the day after the Term here below mentioned, to wit on the 21 of this Month of April. The second Company shall consist of those of the Valley of Angrogne, St. Bartholomy, Rocheplate and Prurustin who shall part the day following, to wit the 22d of this Month; and the third and last Company consisting of those of the Vale of St. Martin and Peirouse, shall repair to Miradol and part the third day, to wit the 23d of this Month.  
The Term in which our said Subjects of the pretended Reformed Religion, inhabitants of the Vallies of Lucerna, shall be obliged to lay down their Arms, in the manner expressed in the first Article of the present declaration, is eight days after its publication, in the Vale of Lucerna; and which they must not fail to obey, if they expect to reap the fruits of our Clemency, whose motions we follow, as well as those of paternal affection, with which we regard our said Subjects, notwithstanding the enormity of their crimes. And expecting punctual observance of the above particulars; we grant favour, pardon, remission, abolition, and an ample forgiveness, to our said Subjects, for all excesses, failings, crimes, and other delinquencies, which they may have committed, since the publication of this our order of the 31 of January last, as well in general, as in particular, in such manner, as they shall never be called in question for them, under what pretence soever; strictly charging all Justices, Counsellors and others, not to give them any Molestation. But if they render themselves unworthy of these favours, by not observing what's afore mentioned; it will then be of too pernicious example, to withhold any longer the chastisement they have deserved; having been so lavish to them of our favours; and expected so long their Repentance; we shall then make use of the means which God bas put into our hands, to reduce the obstinate to their duty, and make them feel the punishment due to their insolences.  
Given at Turin the 9th of April 1686.  
This edict was published in the Vallies, on the 11th of April, the same day the Ambassadors wrote a Letter to some of the Vaudoises, to know their resolutions. They in the mean time presented a very earnest Memorial to the Marquis of St. Thomas, to obtain some assurance, that the Troops should not enter into the Vallies, and to procure the Vaudoises some more favourable conditions, than those in the edict.  
But the Court of Turin gave them to understand, that there was nothing to be done for the Vaudoises, till such time as they had laid down their Arms, of which the Ambassadors gave advice to the Deputies of the Vallies, which had been at Turin, by a Letter of the 13 instant, which they wrote them on this occasion.  
On the 14th the Commons called a general Assembly at Rocheplate, in which having examined the terms and conditions of the edict, they judged that their enemies had nothing farther from their intentions, than to let them have the benefit of the pretended pass, and that this edict was but a snare to entangle them, the more easily to work their destruction. They resolved then, not to accept it; to follow the example of their Fathers, and to remit the events to God's providence. So that this Edict which was only given for the dividing them, had a direct contrary effect, and turned to the uniting them, in the same particular judgement.  
The chief reasons which hindered them from accepting this Edict were first, that seeing it enjoined the perfect execution of the declaration of the 31 of Jan. which commands all the Churches to be demolished in eight days time, because the edict expressly says, that if in eight days they perform not what it contains, they are deprived of the favours and benefits which it offers them. To perform then the commands contained in the Edict, the Vaudoises themselves must demolish their own Churches or their enemies for them. The Vaudoises could never bring themselves to the doing this, with their own hands, they must then have Soldiers sent them, who under pretence of this demolition, would have infallibly fallen on them. Secondly, had they been permitted to depart fairly, why was not the execution of the order of the 31 of Jan. suspended, till such time as they could possibly get away? why should they be obliged to demolish their Churches in the eight days time allowed them to prepare themselves to leave for ever their Country? What is this for, but to render their escape impossible. Thirdly, this Edict commands they should lay down their Arms, and lay open their Countries to Popish Priests, and other Emissaries. Now it's plain, that in laying down their Arms, they must lie at the mercy of their Enemies and at the fury of the Soldiers, who would not have failed entering in upon them, to hinder their escape; and torment them till such time as they had changed their Religion, as they have done in France. And their dreadful apprehensions had too certain grounds, seeing they had no assurance given them, That the Troops should not come down into the Vallies. Fourthly, the Vaudoises are also obliged to depart in three separate Companies, and to render themselves in such places, where the Soldiers being encamped, they could not fail of having their throats cut. Fifthly, The permission which the same Edict gives the Vaudoises of selling their goods, was to them of no use. For besides that Sale could not be made, till after their departure, to Catholics, and that too by Popish Officers, so also out of the money raised from the Sale of the same goods must be indemnised, the Friars, the Missionaries, the Ancient, the Modern, and the future Catholics for the damages and interests which they might pretend to, and which they would not fail to make to amount to above the value of the estates sold. Sixthly, the Edict imports, that besides those who shall leave the Vallies of their own free will, the Prince reserves to himself the power of banishing such as he shall think good, to secure the peace of those who shall remain; which supposes not only that the conditions of the Edict were so disadvantageous, that there must be several Vaudoises, who would not accept of them, nor move thence: but moreover that the departure itself was to be looked on, not as a favour, but as a punishment to be imposed on several Vaudoises, seeing they reserved the power of bannishing those, who were willing to remain. Seventhly, the Ambassadors were not named in the Edict, and the Vaudoises had no security for the faithful performance of the things therein contained. They had then reason to be in a great distrust; but the costly experiences which they had had in several occasions of the perfidiousness of their Enemy's, and particularly in this, wherein were violated all the laws of justice, made their suspicion but too well grounded.  
In fine, the Duke of Savoy having declared, that he was not the Master of this affair, by reason of the engagements he lay under to the King of France, it was not to be presumed that his most Christian Majesty, who had interested himself in the business, would be more kind to the Vaudoises, than he had been to his own subjects.  
The Vaudoises sent then their determinations to the Ambassadors, who used all possible means to procure them more certain and advantageous conditions, than those contained in the Edict, but neither their reasons or solicitations could obtain any thing for them. They were continually told, that as long as the Vaudoises were in arms, there could be nothing granted them, or any positive promises made. So that the Vaudoises being persuaded, that the design of disarming them, was to destroy them with less difficulty, could by no means assent to so foolish proposals, and therefore persisted in the resolution of defending themselves, in case of invasion.  
There happened a passage which served greatly to confirm them in this resolution. For 2 or 3 days after the publication of the Edict Mr. Tholozan, Mr. Gautier, Mr. Gavante, Mr. Cabriol, and ten or twelve others of the inhabitants of the Vallies, came to the Intendant to acquaint him, that they and their families designed to be gone out of the estates of Piedmont, conformably to the Edict; and therefore requested of him passports, which he refused them, on pretence they must stay to go out with the rest.  
And farther, there being several, who refused to yield to the solicitations he made them, for the changing their Religion, he caused 'em to be put in Prison, where they have many of 'em perished. There needed no more to show they intended, not to let them leave the Country, or tarry behind without turning Papists.  
However the Vaudoises having read a letter from the Ambassadors, assembled themselves again at Rocheplate, on the 19th of April, where they found it necessary to stand on their own defence. It was also decreed in this assembly, that all the Ministers should preach, and administer the Sacrament, the Sunday following, which was Easter day.  
Some of this Valley changed their minds, without communicating their purposes to the rest. And the directors of the Church of Villeseche, wrote to the Ambassadors, which were then at Turin, on the point of their departure, a letter dated the 20th of April, in which they declared, they would obey the Edict, and on this account entreated them, to procure them a passport and some time to prepare themselves.  
One of the Ambassadors took the pains to go to the Camp, to make this request, but it was refused him, under pretence that the time was expired. For it was always too soon or too late.  
In the mean time, the Duke of Savoy came to the Camp some days after the publication of the Edict, to discourage the Vaudoises by his presence, and to oblige them to submit to the conditions imposed on them. He had made a review of his troops, and those of France; who were encamped near the plain, at the foot of the Alps. His army consisted of the troops of his household, of all his forces, both horse and foot, of the militia of Mondovi, Barjes, Bagnols, and a great number of free Booters. And the French army consisted of several Regiments of horse and Dragoons, of 7 or 8 Batalions of foot which had past the Mounts, and part of the garrison of Pignerol and Casal. He had moreover set all things in order, to attack the Vaudoises, assoon as the limited time should be expired, having appointed his army to force the Valley of Lucerna, and the commonalty of Angrogne: and the French army to attack the Vallies of St. Martin and Peirouse.  
The Vaudoises on their side, had taken some care to defend themselves. They only held one part of the Valley of Lucerna. For the Town which gives the name to this Valley, and several other considerable places was in the Enemy's hands. The Commonalty of Angrogne, to which several give the name of a Valley, by reason of its great extent, was not wholly in the hands of the Vaudoises. They were Masters in the Valley of Peirouse, only of some places which depend on the states of Piedmont; for this Valley is divided between the French King and the Duke of Savoy; but they held all the Valley of St. Martin, which is stronger than any of the rest by its situation.  
They had fortified themselves in each of these Vallies, by several Retrenchments of Wood and Stone; Being about 2500 men able to bear Arms, having chosen their Officers from the most considerable Persons of their own Country, there being no Foreigners amongst them, and they thus expected the Enemy with great resolution. But as on one hand they had no regulated Troops, nor experienced Officers, and on the other, there were several Vardoises who had been corrupted or fallen off from their resolutions, during the Negotiation, so it is not to be marveled at, if they took not all necessary precautions. One of the greatest faults they committed was their undertaking to keep all their Posts. For had they abandoned those at the farthest distance, and retired into the Retrenchments, within the Mountains, there's no likelihood they could have been attacked with any success.  
The 22 of April being the day appointed for the Onset, the French Army commanded by Catinat Governor of Casal, marched two hours before day by Torchlight, against the Vallies of Peirouse and St Martin, keeping along the River of Cluson, being the French King's Country.  
Catinat drew out a Detachement of Foot, commanded by Ville-Vielle a Lieutenant Colonel, who having passed over the River on a Bridge, entered into the valley of Peirouse Piemontoise. He possessed himself of St. german, a Village which the Vaudoises had forsaken, and came and insulted over a Retrenchment, not far off, wherein there were 200 men.  
The Vaudoises, after some resistance, quitted this Post; and betook themselves to another, which lay more advantageously. In the mean time, a new Detachment of Horse and Dragoons, having in like manner past the River, came to the assistance of the Infantry, who had begun the fight. They did all they could to gain the Vaudoises Retrenchment which they thought no hard task, seeing they were six to one; but they found here such vigorous defence, that having lost a great many men, they Retrenched themselves within Pistol shot. Both parties held continual firing for 10 hours, but in fine, the Vaudoises issued out from their Trenches, with their Swords in their hands surprising the French, who did not expect such a bold action, and drove them into the plain beyond Cluson, where by good hap, they found a Bridge, which saved them from drowning.  
There were in this Rencounter, above 500 French killed, and wounded; and amongst the rest, several Officers of note; and the Vaudoises, on their side, lost but two men, and had some few wounded. The relation, which the contrary party has wrote, on this subject, entitled an account of the war against the Religionaries called Barbets, agrees touching the great loss, the French made; saying the Vaudoises fought so desperately, as forced the French to an unhandsome retreat beyond Cluson. In this defeat, Ville-Vielle betook himself to the Church of St. german, with 70 Soldiers, and some Officers; who being summoned to surrender himself on terms of good Quarter, he refused, and showed great resolution, tho' several of his people were killed.  
The Vaudoises had certainly forced him to yield, had not the approaches of the Night, and the weariness of that day's exercise induced them to give over. Having therefore left a guard at the Church door, the rest went to seek some refreshments. Ville-Vielle was carried off at break of day, by the assistance of some Troops, which the Governor of Pignerol had sent secretly in the night. The Vaudoises then returned to their Retrenchments, expecting to be again attacked, but the Enemy, although recruited by fresh forces, contented themselves with Encamping about Pistol shot distance, without firing on either side, for two days together.  
Whilst things thus past in Peirouse, the body of the French King's Army advanced from Cluson, to the Fort of Peirouse. When Catinat drew out a Retrenchment of Horse, commanded by Melac, which having passed over the River, on two Bridges, went wheeling about to gain the high grounds, which separate the Valley of St. Martin by a Village named Rioclaret. But those who commanded in this Valley, not expecting to be attacked after their offers of compliance with the terms of the Edict; especially considering the day, denoted for their departure out of this Valley, was not come. They therefore had not put themselves into a condition of defence, neither did they make any resistance; whereupon they chose to lay down their Arms and to implore the pity and compassions of the Victors. But the French, being enraged, at what had passed, at St. Germains, contented not themselves with burning, ravishing and plundering, but Massacred, without distinction of age and sex with unheard of fury, all those, whom flight could not save from their cruelty. Catinat having ravaged all the Country of Rioclaret, in the most barbarous manner imaginable, left some Troops in the Vale of St. Martin, and traversed with the main body of the Army, the Mountains, which separate this Valley, from that of Peirouse; and went and encamped, without finding any resistance, in the valley of Peirouse; where the Soldiers Massacred all those, who fell into their hands; without sparing men, women, or children. In the mean time the Detachment, which Melac commanded, having encamped one night on the risings of the Valley of St. Martin, entered through several parts into this Valley, directed by the Vaudoises, who were so wicked to lead them, thro' unknown ways, to all others, but only the inhabitants of the Country.  
He left in all places, where he passed, the marks of an unheard of fury; and went and joined himself to the rest of the Army, which lay encamped at Pramol. We shall not give here a particular account of the cruelties exercised, in these occasions, and several others; but content our selus in reciting in the sequel of this relation, some instances, which may make us judge of the rest.  
We must of necessity, break off the relation, of what the French did in Peirouse; seeing there happened such things in the Vallies of Lucerna, and Angrogne, which should be first taken notice of.  
The Duke of Savoy's Army being come to the plain of St. John the 22 of April, were drawn out into several bodies which attacked divers Retrenchments, which the Vaudoises had in the Vallies of Lucerna and Angrogne. The Vaudoises not being able to withstand the Enemy's Cannon, in such places, which likewise lay open to the Horse, were forced after some resistance to abandon part of these Retrenchments, and to betake themselves to a Fort, more advantageously situated, near Angrogne, to the number of 500 men.  
The Enemy having burnt all the houses which they came near, they afterwards assaulted the Fort of the Vaudoises, who defended themselves so vigorously, with shot and stones, against this great body, that they kept their post all that day, with the loss only of five men. Whereas the Enemy lost 300, altho' defended by an advantageous retrenchment.  
The Vaudoises fearing they could not keep this fort, because the army continually grew bigger, betook themselves to another, at 200 paces distance, that was better situated; where they expected the army with great courage, which advanced to assault them, when advice was sent them, that the Vale of St. Martin had surrendered, and that the French was coming on them behind; for to this Valley, there is an easy passage from Lucerna and Angrogne.  
This news obliged the Vaudoises, to enter into composition, with Don Gabriel of Savoy, Uncle and General of the Duke of Savoy's army, and with the rest of the other Officers, who on notice of his Royal Highness' will and pleasure, positively promised, as well from him, as from themselves, that the Vaudoises should receive a full pardon, and be remitted to the terms of the order of the 9th of April, provided they stood to his mercy. But the Vaudoises making some scruples at the confiding on this promise; Don Gabriel, who had notice of it, sent them a letter, writ and signed with his own hand in his Royal Highness' name, and in these words.  
Lay down immediately your arms, and throw your selus on his Royal Highness' mercy, in doing which, assure your selus, he grants you pardon; and that no violence shall be offered to your selus, your wives, or children.  
An assurance of this nature, one would think, should be sufficient, for the securing the Vaudoises lives and liberties. For besides that this promise was made in the name, and on the part of the Duke, it must have seemed no less valid, had it only came from Don Gabriel, and other Chief Officers.  
The Vaudoises then laid down their arms, in reliance on this promise, and went most of them to surrender themselves to their Enemy's; hoping they should be immediately released. But all those who put themselves into their hands, were made prisoners, and led to the Town of Lucerna, under pretence, they were to be brought to his Royal Highness, to make their submissions.  
The Enemy's also seized on all the posts, which the Vaudoises had held in Angrogne. They contented not themselves with sacking, plundering, and burning the houses of these poor people; they moreover put to the sword a great number of Vaudoises of both sexes, Old and Young. They Ravished several Women and Virgins, and committed, in fine, such brutish actions, as strike with horror all persons, endued with any sense of humanity. Yet there were several Vaudoises, who after this composition, slipped privately out of their hands, unwilling to deliver themselves to the mercy of such barbarous wretches, before they knew what would become of their companions, who had yielded themselves. Seeing then on one hand, that the army exercised horrid cruelties, wherever it past; and on the other, that they detained all those who surrendered themselves, they therefore hid themselves in the woods, and sent a request to Don Gabriel by one Bartholomew Fraschie, to entreat him to release their brethren, detained contrary to promise; and to forbear those acts of hostility, which were carried on with such barbarous cruelty. Don Gabriel made no answer to this humble request: but some Officers told Fraschie, that the Vaudoises were carried to Lucerna, only to beg pardon of his Royal Highness, and that after this, they should be released.  
In the mean time the Marquis de Parelle gained the rising ground of the Vallies of Angrogne, with a detachement from the army, who finding no resistance, made up to the most considerable sort of the Vaudoises, and in which they had most of their cattle. The Marquis gave the Vaudoises to understand, that the peace being made, by the capitulation of Angrogne, it was their fault, they enjoyed not the fruits of it. He assured them, for this effect, on the word of a man of honour, that if they would put themselves into his hands, neither they nor their wives or children, should be harmed; and that they might carry with them, whatever they pleased, without any fear of its being taken from them. That nothing would be required of them, but to make their submissions. And that as for those, who would become Catholics, they might return in all safety to their families and Estates, and as to the rest, who were willing to leave the Country, they should have free liberty to depart, according to the order of the 9th of April.  
These Vaudoises then surrendered themselves again on the faith of these promises, which were no better observed, than the others. For the Enemy's were no sooner entered into the fort, but not only whatever the Vaudoises there had, was delivered up to the Rapine of the Soldiers, and Banditi of Mondovi, their capital Enemy's, who enriched themselves with their spoils: but these poor people, the greatest part of which were ancient Men, Women, and Children, were made Prisoners, with some Ministers, who were amongst them; and conducted with such fury, that those whose age, or other infirmities permitted not to travel fast enough to the Soldiers minds, were slain with their Swords, or thrown down from Rocks.  
To return to the French, whom we have left at Pramol, in the Valley of Peirouse, they behaved themselves after the same manner, as the troops of the Duke had done at Angrogne, and in the Vale of Lucerna. They had encamped themselves in a part of the common of Pramol; called the Rua; which is about half an hour's march from another place, termed Pieumian, where a party of those of Pramol, St. german, Prarustin and Rocheplate had retired, to the number of 1500 persons, Men, Women, and Children. The French might easily from their quarter come down to St. german, and fall on the 200 Vaudoises, who had so valiantly defended themselves, and had resettled themselves in their trenches. But having notice of the loss of the Valley of St. Martin, and the Enemy's march, they thereupon left this retrenchment, for fear of being attacked behind, and went to their brethren in Pieumian.  
Whilst they deliberated on the course they should take to defend themselves, against the French, who were preparing to invade them; some Inhabitants of the Vallies, being suborned and won over to the Enemy, came and told them, that the Vallies of Angrogne and Lucerna had submitted to the will of their Prince, who had taken 'em into favour, and granted them the terms of the order issued out the 9th of April. They also told them, it was in their power, to end a war, the burden of which they were not able to sustain alone, and to procure for themselves an advantageous and lasting peace. Which news having taken from the Vaudoises part of their resolution; they sent Deputies with a Drum, to the French General, to treat of peace. Who told them, that the intention of his Royal Highness was to pardon them, and positively promised them from his part and his own their lives and liberties, with leave to return with all security to their houses, provided they laid down their Arms immediately. And the Deputies telling him they feared lest the French enraged at what had passed, at St. german, would take vengeance, on the Vaudoises, when they had nothing to defend themselves: he made them great protestations and oaths, that supposing their whole Army should pass by their doors, they would not offer the least violence.  
This composition being made, Catinat retained one of the Deputies with him, and sent the others to give advice to the Vaudoises, to oblige all those who had dispersed themselves, to repair the next morning being the 25 of April at Pieumian; that every man might return to his house on notice of the peace. Whilst the Vaudoises assembled at Pieumian the scattered families, Catinat gave an account of this Capitulation to Don Gabriel, who sent him over night a messenger, who passing by Pieumian, assured the Vaudoises he brought good tidings of peace, and the next morning in his return, he told them it was concluded. They were so well persuaded of the truth of it, that the day before they had laid down their Arms according to the conditions of the treaty, entirely confiding in Catinat's promise: They waited in this condition for news from Pieumian, when there arrived one named St. Peter, one of the French King's Captains of the Garrison in the Fort of Peirouse, followed with several Dragoons. Which Captain was well known by the Vaudoises, and immediately reiterated to them the assurances of the peace; but presently caused the men to go together apart, in a certain place, and the women and children in another.  
The French Troops being at the same time arrived, told the men, they had order to conduct them to their houses, and made them pass along through them four in a rank. These poor people having been constrained to leave their Wives and Daughters exposed to the Soldiers discretion, were led not to their houses, as they had been told, but to Don Gabriel, who was encamped on the Mountain of La Vacherie, and who caused them to be carried prisoners to Lucerna.  
In the mean time, the women suffered whatever the fury, and brutish inhumanity of the Soldiers could devise against them. For these Barbarians, contented not themselves with taking from them their money, but violated their Chastity, with such Circumstances, as are a shame to nature; and killed many of them in their resistance of their filthy attempts. Catinat was not present, at what passed at Pieumian. He left the ordering of this affair to some Officers, to keep out of hearing the just reproaches, and complaints of the Vaudoises; or else that he might not be the Spectator of so many Villainous actions. But however it is certain, that excepting some women, who were killed, and such as fled away from the persecution of these Monsters, and saved themselves in the neighbouring Woods, in danger of the Guns, that were shot at them, to stop them; all the rest, were dragged into divers prisons, with great cruelty.  
It will be needless, to use here many arguments to show, that the Enemy's of the Vaudoises, have violated in these rencounters, the most Sacred and inviolable obligations. The relation of what is past, suffices, to clear this truth; seeing it clearly justifys, That the Vaudoises have been the victims of their Enemy's perfidiousness. And it's in vain to think to excuse this breach of promise, under pretence the Vaudoises were rebellious Subjects, who had taken arms against their lawful Prince; for it will be easy to show, that they cannot be accused of rebellion; seeing they only made use of a natural defence, against the unjust oppressions of the Congregation of propagation, and their other Enemy's. But the present question is not, whether the Vaudoises could justly do what they did; but touching the performance of the promises, which have been made them; notwithstanding this their pretended rebellion; seeing their surrender of themselves, was grounded on the faith of these promises. So that it's certain the violation of an obligation of this nature, can have no other colour, than the authority of this maxim, That faith is not to be kept with Heretics. It's also certain, That Kings and Princes are especially obliged to condemn this vile maxim, in that they be the representatives of a being, who never failed of being faithful to his promises, and who has ever punished perfidiousness, either in the person of those who have been guilty of it, or in their descendants.  
It's also in vain to allege, that when the Vaudoises surrendered themselves, they had only promise of life; for it's plain they were promised likewise their liberty. But had the promise extended no farther than life, can it be affirmed they kept their word, when they made them all perish under the weight of an intolerable misery, and the hardest captivity as ever was.  
The Valley of Peirouse being reduced as the rest by the Capitulation of Pieumian, one part of the French Army left this Valley, and went and joined Don Gabriel at the Vacherie; Then it was that on all sides they hunted, and caught, these poor Vaudoises, who were dragged to several Prisons, under pretence of being led before his Royal Highness, to entreat his pardon. But that which seems most deplorable, was their refusal to hear the complaints, and tears, of families, who implored the favour of suffering together. For they separated the Fathers from their Children, and the Husband from the Wife, to deprive them of the means of comforting and strengthening one another. They violated the ties of nature and consanguinity, that they might be less able to bear the temptations, and other miseries, they provided for them. They designed, that those who could resist the sufferings, and miseries of a rigorous prison; should be overcome by the restless longings, to be with their relations. There were several young people of both Sexes, who were dispersed, and placed in several particular houses in Piedmont; but this was not from a motive of equity, but to make them change their Religion, and to keep them from coming near their Parents.  
Yet there were then a great number of Vaudoises, who had not delivered up themselves, nor were as yet taken; For those of Villars, Boby, and some other places, in the Valley of Lucerna, would not consent to the composition, as did the rest, that they might keep themselves free. Many of those of Angrogne had joined themselves to these, having observed how the Enemy's kept their word. And several of the Vaudoises of the vale of St. Martin, had searched for shelter, and hiding places, in Woods and Rocks, to escape the barbarity of the French fury; who gave no quarter. The enemies resolved to be masters of these Vaudoises, by force or fraud; as they had been of the rest. For this effect, whilst part of the Duke of Savoy's Army, was employed against those, who were still in arms, in the Valley of Lucerna; the French returned to that of St. Martin, with the Marquis Parelle; who was well known to the Vaudoises, and the better able to persuade them. He knew by experience, that craft was a more likely means to succeed, than open force. He made use then of some Vaudoises, who had yielded themselves, and in whom the people confided; causing them to march at the head of the army, with pistols at their throats, who were forced not only to be guides to the French; to discover the Vaudoises, in the secret places of their retreat, but moreover to write several notes, to exhort their Brethren, to throw themselves on the clemency of their Prince; whose favour was offered, to all those, who would accept it. And because the usage of those who had already surrendered themselves, might discredit this solicitation; it was added in several of these notes, that the prisoners would be soon set at liberty. On the credit then of these notes, many of these poor people delivered up themselves, for several days, as relying too on the assurances, which the Marquis Parelle, and the other Officers gave them, of his Royal Highness' pardon.  
Several others were Massacred, or taken by the Soldiers; but both those who surrendered themselves, and those who were taken, had both the same destiny; and were equally led away prisoners, into divers prisons and castles.  
Whilst thus craft or cruelty wasted the Valley of St. Martin of its inhabitants; let us see what past in the Valley of Lucerna. The Vaudoises here, held amongst others, two strong places; the one called Jaimet, and the other Chamruma, above the Castle into which one part of those who had escaped out of Angrogne had fled. These two places sheltered Villars, wherein there were above a Thousand Persons, as well Old as Young. A detachement of the Duke of Savoy's army, assisted by the Banditi of Mondovi, came and attacked these two places; where the Vaudoises defended themselves, for a whole day with an extraordinary courage. They killed a great number of Soldiers, and considerable Officers, amongst which was the Commander of the Banditi. They had only six men killed, and as many wounded. The Enemy's were extraordinarily tired and intended a retreat: but for as much as they might be pursued easily, and defeated in retreating, they there upon be thought themselves of this stratagem.  
Several Officers having laid down their arms, and laid by their hats, drew near at night, near the trenches of Chamruma, with an handkerchief at the end of their sticks; and desired a parley, to make proposals of peace. They showed a paper, and told the Vaudoises, they came from receiving letters, that peace was concluded, in all the Vallies; that his Royal Highness had granted a general pardon to all his subjects, and that it was their fault, who were still in arms, that they were not comprehended in it. They added they had order to cease all acts of hostility, and exhorted the Vaudoises to do the same, and to accept the grace his Royal Highness offered them, of which the Podestat, there present, could give them assurance. Which person being well known by the Vaudoises, having adjoined his protestations to those of the other Officers, and altogether having promised them, with the greatest earnestness, their lives and liberties; provided they withdrew; the Vaudoises of Chamruma trusting to these promises, left the place to the Enemy's and retired, being persuaded of the certainty of the peace. There were several of Angrogne, who came to the Castle to enjoy the fruits of this peace, but they were immediately seized on, and conveyed away. This credulity of the Vaudoises, took from 'em a favourable opportunity, of overthrowing their Enemy's; for they might, without any danger, or trouble, vanquish troops, who had wasted all their warlike ammunition.  
The Enemy's, who pretended they had marched away, only to make the Vaudoises leave their post, which was a very advantageous place, having received some recruits, immediately returned and possessed themselves of it. Those who were at Jaimet, and had not entered into composition, were then obliged to Abandon theirs, because it was commanded by the other, and to betake themselves to the mountains of Villars. The Enemy's marched after them, and encamped at Bonnet, on the avenues of Villars and Boby; where they remained two days without attempting any thing against the Vaudoises, who might be about 4 or 500 men. The Officers of the Army, employed this time, in offering them proposals of peace, attended with specious promises; provided they surrendered themselves, and terrible threatenings, if they stood on their defence.  
The Vaudoises replied to these proposals, that they desired nothing more; but that which was offered them, was more to be dreaded than war, seeing it was not to be purchased, but by the loss of their liberty. That not withstanding the peace promised to those of Chamruma, and on the faith of which they had delivered up their post, yet were they imprisoned, who had surrendered themselves, and that the example of their Brethren taught them plain enough, what they must expect, if they relied on these assurances. Yet did not this hinder, but a great number of the Vaudoises delivered themselves to the Enemy, in that they swore to 'em, that those who had yielded themselves should soon be set at liberty to return to their houses; having been carried to his Royal Highness only to ask his mercy, but these were also lead away captive, and used in no better sort than the rest.  
One would marvel at the easiness, wherewith the Vaudoises suffered themselves to be deceived so often. But it's to be observed, there were several, who did not believe any defence could avail, after so many persons and places surrender. Others feared lest their opposition, should prove more than ordinary prejudicial to their Wives, and Children who were in prison. And the most part, could not imagine, their Enemy's could be cruel enough, to starve in prison such as delivered themselves up to their mercy. They hoped however they should be set at liberty, after some month's imprisonment.  
But the rest of the other Vaudoises, being much weakened, quitted Villars, on which the Enemy seized; who ceased molesting them till May 4; when the troops being reinforced, attacked Boby, where the Vaudoises were retired; but they were vigorously beaten back by an 150 Vaudoises; who were in the mountain of Subjusque, and who without the loss of one Man, killed some Officers, and a great many common Soldiers. Eight days after the French army joined that of the Duke of Savoy. The Enemy's then made their last effort to be Masters of Boby, but the Vaudoises defended themselves so well, that after a fight, which lasted the whole day, they constrained the army to retire, and to encamp at Serre de la Sarsena, with the loss of many Men.  
The next morning, the Marquis de Parrelle, who came from the Valley of St. Martin, with a great detachement, passed over the ridge of Julien, which is an Alpe which was thought inaccessible, and prepared himself to attack the Vaudoises behind. Which obliged the Vaudoises to quit Boby, and to betake themselves to the Woods and Rocks. The Marquis de Parelle, and the Count de Brichantan having possessed themselves of these posts, which the Vaudoises had now forsaken, sent several Persons to them in their retreats, to exhort them to surrender, and to accept of a pardon; and several of these poor people being pressed with misery and hunger, surrendered themselves to these offers, and became captives by their own credulity. Others yielded to the Governor of Mirebouc, on assurance from him of their lives and liberties; but they also paid for their trust in his word, by a rigorous imprisonment. There were several, who had betaken themselves to the Mountain of Vandelin, and who fought for some time with great courage and success. Yet they at last too suffered themselves to be over-persuaded by the Count de la Roche, Governor of the Vallies, on promise which he made them of their lives and liberties. He assured them, by a note, writ with his own hand, they should return to their houses; but they had no sooner forsaken their places of retreat, but they were clapped up in Prison, and the note taken from them which he had given them.  
The Enemy's of the Vaudoises, having by the means afore related, taken away the lives of an infinite number of Persons, and deprived above 12000 of them of their liberties, and carried away, and dispersed above 2000 Children, thought they had now done their work. They carried on then their unjust practices to the end, and caused all the Vaudoises Estates to be confiscated.  
And thus were the Vallies of Piedmont depopulated of their ancient Inhabitants, and the light of the Gospel extinguished in a Country, where it had shined for so many ages. Thus did perfidiousness, and violence, triumph over the simplicity of the Vaudoises, which the Council de propagatione, and their other Enemy's have executed to their utter extirpation. But to the end we may know throughly, with what spirit their persecutors have been animated, we may here see some of the barbarous acts and cruelties, which they have exercised in these occasions.  
Although we design to speak only of those, which have been practised, after the compositions; yet we may relate some of the barbarities, with which the French signalised their entrance, into the Valley of St. Martin; not only because they transcend the bounds, which Christians ought to set to their Victories; but moreover, because they have been committed on Persons, who offered no resistance. We may then here mention the Murders of so many Old Men, Women, and Children, who were then the Victims of the Soldiers cruelty; the inexpressible lamentations of those poor Women and Maidens, who after the abuse of their bodies, were constrained to travel all night, at the head of the army, to serve for guides to the French; and the monstrous and diabolical actions of these furious Soldiers, who glutted their filthy lusts, on the same bodies, they came from depriving of life. But we shall set aside the description of these things, to speak of some instances of cruelties and violences exercised after the surrender of the Vallies.  
The Soldiers made several Massacres at Angrogne, not here to be instanced, lest it should put us on a long relation of particulars. There were several Women and Maidens violated, on the account of whose modesty, we shall conceal their names, some of them being yet alive. They would likewise have violated Marguerit Maraude, who was but 14 years of age; and because James Maraude her Father, and Margaret Maraude her Ant opposed themselves, to these violences; they were cruelly murdered. Susanna Olviette, and Margaret Baline striving to save their chastity, lost their lives by the hands of these Barbarians. Joseph David having been wounded at Angrogne, was carried by the Soldiers into a neighbouring house, where they burned him. Four Women and three Children of Prarustin were killed in a hole of a Rock, where they had hid themselves. The Mother of Daniel Fourneron aged 80 years, was thrown down from a precipice in coming from the pray de Tour, because she could not go fast enough. At Pieumian the Soldiers slew the Wife of James Fourneron and Magdalen Roche, because they did not readily enough deliver the money they had. Marry Romain a Young and Beautiful Damosel, promised in Marriage to James Griot, was killed for endeavouring to save her Chastity. Another Virgin to secure here's, having cast herself into a River, was there shot to Death. Several Women and Maidens, who are yet alive, were dragged by the hair of their heads into neighbouring houses, where they were Ravished with horrible circumstances; one through despair, throwing herself out of a Window, Honoree Jayer, a young Child, having been found among the women, was shot to death. A great number of women and maidens running away into woods, fell by the Musket-bullets, shot after them to stop them. The Marquis Parelle, and several Vaudoises, which he made to march before him, to serve for guides; passing by Pieumian, to go into the Valley of St. Martin, found the bodies of several little children, cut in pieces; several naked women, slain with blows, some of which had Stones thrust into their privities. They also saw several Soldiers, who carried in their hats, the marks of an horrible cruelty, and a devilish impudicity, at which the Marquis Parelle was scandalised.  
In the Vale of St. Martin there were six men, twenty women, and some children, who went and surrendered themselves in the Town of Peirouse, on promise made them, they should have no harm done them; but they were no sooner come, but these six men, were shot in the presence of their wives. John Ribet of Macel having been taken, he had his Arms and Legs burned to oblige him to change his Religion; but God gave him the grace, to obtain the Crown of Martyrdom, in suffering constantly the death, which these executioners gave him. They likewise inhumanly put to death Bartholomew Ribet, James Brews, and his son. They fastened one poor infirm man to an horse's tail, whom they dragged about, till he expired. They hanged up a poor blind woman at her own door. They found a woman at the point of being delivered, and performed two murders at one Blow, in taking away her life, and that of the child in her womb. They pursued two young women, from a place called the Colet, to another named Boniot, where overtaking them, they violated them, and afterwards both shot them and hewed them in pieces.  
Four women having fallen at the same time into the hands of these Barbarians, met with the same misfortune, only with this difference, that before they were violated and massacred, they saw their children's throats cut, in a place called the Fountains. They opened the bodies of a mother and her child, and tore out the bowels, which they caused to be burnt. They slew a great many children in the same place, because they were sick, and were not able to follow them to the prisons, where they would have secured them. Twenty two persons, who had for a long time lain hid in Woods, and most of which were women and children, were found by these murderers on the Mountain of Pelue, and thrown off into dreadful Abysses; being miserably shattered and torn by the edges of sharp-pointed Flints, on which the entrails of these poor wretches were seen to hang, a long time after.  
In the vale of Lucerna, Susannah the wife of Daniel Violin, Katherine the wife of James Negrin, Anne Malanote, and her daughter were stabbed in the throats with Bayonets. Some Soldiers having used all their endeavours to flea Daniel Pellene alive, and seeing they could not get the skin over his shoulders, they laid him on the ground, and placed a great stone on his belly, and made him thus expire. Daniel Brumerol lost his life with a cord, with which they fastened and straitened with a dreadful violence his head to his belly and privities. Anne and Magdalen Vittory's, and several others were burnt; the wise of Daniel Monin was slain with a Sword, with which her head was cleaved asunder. Anne Bastianne was thrown down from high Rocks into a dreadful bottom. David Moudon had also his head cleaved asunder with the blow of a Sword. Margaret Salvajot having been stripped naked, had several blows of a dagger struck into her body, but she suffered not only a cruel death, in her own person; seeing that before she died, these wretches had so bruised the head of her daughter but 7 months old against rocky places, that the brains came out in the mother's sight. They cut in pieces Mary Salvajot; and poignarded Mary Durand for resisting the attempts, made on her chastity. They cut the throat of Mrs. Bertrand, the Minister's mother, who was 80 years of age, and lay bedrid. A young maiden of Boby was fastened naked on her back on a Mule, and thus exposed; and led openly through all the Town of Lucerna. Amongst a great number of Vaudoises which were hanged in Boby, there was one named Anthony Malanot, on whom the Soldiers discharged their Guns several times after he was dead, making their mark those parts of his body, which modesty puts on scrupling the mention.  
The Soldiers having found a woman, named Jaimonate in a cavern of a Rock, on the Collier's Mount, they led her to the Marquis de Bavil, Colonel to the Regiment of Savoy, who asked her how long she had lain in that place, and how she sustained herself; she answered she had there hid herself 8 days, and lived on the milk which a Goat she had taken along with her had yielded her. They would have afterwards obliged her to tell them where the Vaudoises were, who hid themselves in Rocks; and protesting she knew nothing in that particular, the Soldiers, after having given her a kind of torture, in fastening and then straightening her fingers with matches to make her confess, tied her neck and heels, and in this posture threw her down from an high Rock; but being stopped in the way, They with stone's so bruised her, that her bowels came out, and at length beat her quite off, in the presence of the Marquis de Bavil. A youth of the Vallies, named David Magnot, whom this Marquis had a fancy to, and had kept to wait on him, having since gotten away, was an eye-witness of this horrid action. Daniel Moudon, one of the Elders of the Church of Roras, having been the spectator of the death of John, and James Moudon his two children, (whose heads the Soldiers cut off) after he had seen the body of the wife of John ripped up from the Navel, and her daughter's brains beat out, who was not above 6 weeks old, and the two children of James cut in pieces, (one of which was 4 years old, and the other 14 months,) was constrained by these Monsters, to carry cross his shoulders the heads of his two sons, and to march barefoot 2 hours' journey, near Lucerna, where he was hanged in the midst of these two heads, which were fastened to a Gibbet.  
There would be no end in reciting particular instances of these kinds of cruelties. Neither shall we insist on the piteous death of so many Ancient and infirm people of all ages and both Sexes, who perished through cold and hunger, as well in Woods as holes in the Rocks. We here pass over an infinite number of prisoners, who were hanged, without any formality of justice, on the arms of Trees; and in Towns and Villages, amongst which was Paul Megle an infirm young man, who was carried out of his bed to execution.  
What we have related may suffice, I think, to show how far extended the fury of the Vaudoises Enemy's. We shall only then add here the death of Mr. Leidet, which is equally worthy of pity and admiration. He was Minister of Prabz in the vale of St. Martin, who had escaped at the Surrender of the Vallies, and hid himself for some time in the holes of Rocks. He was taken by a Detachment of Soldiers, and carried away to Lucerna, into the Palace of the Marquis of Angrogne, where was then the Duke of Savoy. He was put into prison in a Tower of this Palace, and one of his feet locked into a kind of Stocks: where he long remained in this condition with bread and water, not being able to lie down. It was said he was taken with his arms in his hands, but this appearing to be a false accusation, as it was afterwards justified, by those who took him, he was left several months in Prison, without having any judgement passed on him, and several Judges excused themselves from meddling with him. Yet in the mean time no day past, in which he was not exposed to the persecutions of the Monks and Popish Priests, with whom he earnestly disputed, touching his Religion, and always confounded them. They brought him one day two Bibles, in which he showed them so clearly the truth of his belief, that they left him, and shamefully withdrew, after a dispute which held four hours, They often put him in mind of his approaching death to affright him, and told him several times, there was no ways of escaping it, but by turning Roman Catholic. But he received the news of his death with great tranquillity. He answered them, that though he well knew, they could not justly put him to death, seeing he was not taken with his arms in his hands, and that moreover the Duke of Savoy had promised pardon to all his Subjects, Yet was he ready to suffer, what they might lay upon him, esteeming himself very happy, if he might suffer death for the name of Christ. He strengthened by his example and exhortations the prisoners, which were with him, some of which had leave to come to him. In fine the Monks and Friars, being enraged at his zeal and constancy, found at length Judges compliant enough to condemn him to die.  
The day whereon he was executed, the Recorder Salvay pronounced sentence on him, in the presence of several Monks, which he heard read with admirable resignation, not showing the least trouble or alteration in his countenance. The Monks left him not all that day, although he desired them, several times, to let him be in private, that he might the better pray to God; but they would not give over troubling him, but forced him into disputes with them, as believing he was not now in a condition to defend himself against them, but he disengaged himself with such smartness and presence of mind, that they were all astonished at it. Yet this hindered them not from returning the next morning, to have the satisfaction of tormenting him, to the end of his life. He said when he was going out of the Prison, that this was a day of double deliverance for him, seeing his body would soon be freed, not only, from its corporal prison, but his soul translated into immortal joy and felicity. He went to the place of execution with inexpressible cheerfulness and resolution, both despising life, which the Monks offered him, and death, which was now before his eyes. He made a long and affectionate Prayer, at the foot of the Scaffold, with which those who stood by, were sensibly touched. He uttered these words on the Ladder, My God into thy hands I commend my Spirit, and died so edifying a death, that the Friars themselves, who would not leave him, were forced to acknowledge, he died like a Righteous person.  
There only then remained in the Vallies some Inhabitants, who preferring death before servitude, would not hearken to the proposals of peace. Some of these were in the Valley of St. Martin; and although the one knew not the design of the others, because the Army lying encamped between these two vallies, they could have no Communication: Yet they were all of the same mind, and took both a resolution worthy of immortal praise. They remained a long time hid and dispersed in the Mountains, to prevent falling into the Enemy's hands, who went every day out in small parties to surprise them. One cannot sufficiently admire the constancy, with which they endured, all the wearynesses, and miseries, to which they lay exposed; being often glad to feed on grass, and the dogs, and other beasts which came to prey on the Vaudoises dead bodies; which lay unburied in the fields. But the French and Banditi of Mondovi being retired, they were not so strictly pursued by the Duke of Savoy's Army, which remained alone in the Vallies. Then it was, that those who were in the valley of Lucerna began to come out of their hiding places, to seek for food to sustain their languishing Spirits. There were not in this valley above 42 men, besides some women and children, when they were all together met, yet they made several attempts in the plain, always loading themselves with provision and other necessaries, and worsted in several rencounters divers of the Enemy's detachments, and killed and put to flight a great number of the Savoyards, who were come to inhabit in the Vallies, and in fine performed, for several months, such gallant actions, that they put the Enemy's under contribution, and forced them to furnish them with provisions, for some time; to hinder them from making their inroads into the plain.  
We shall not now make a particular relation of these geverous attempts, lest we engage in a long discourse, but content our selus with saying, that the Court of Turin, having in vain attempted by force, to exterminate them from the Vallies, sent them passports, in good form, under hand, and hostages, for greater surety of their retreat; tho' those who carried these proposals to the Vaudoises, would by no means allow they acted by the Court of Turin's order. They affirmed on the Contrary, that what they did, was of their own motion, and at the desire of some other Persons, who undertook to obtain these passports, and deliver them hostages. But it's certain, an affair of this nature, could not be carried on, without a more than bare connivance from the Court of Turin. For besides, that no particular Person, dared to have undertaken, of his own head, such a business; the passports which were dispatched, did afterwards fully show, that all was done by the Court's order.  
However the Vaudoises at first refused to hearken to this proposal, whether they thought they ought not to put any confidence in the promises made them, or whether resolving to perish themselves, but they would deliver their Brethren out of Captivity, Death being more sweet to 'em than life, whilst they groaned in their chains. A while after, this proposal was renewed, and several considerations were offered to oblige them to an acceptance. They were told that the Duke of Savoy had declared, that as long as they were in arms, the Prisoners should not be released, and they were positively promised, that assoon as ever they were departed, their Brethren should be set at liberty.  
So that the Vaudoises, considering on the one hand, that Winter came on, and that they must expect no succours; and on the other, that their resistance, might furnish their Enemy's, with a pretence, for the detaining of the Captives; they thereupon determined to depart their Country. It was then agreed and resolved, they should leave the Vallies, and depart with their Wives and Children, arms and baggage, in two troops or companies, having their charges defrayed; and they conducted, as far as Switzerland, at two several times, by one of his Royal Highness' Captains, with sufficient passports.  
That for the greater security of the first troop, which should set out, hostages should be left in the Vallies, in the hands of the second; who should keep them, till such time, as they had heard, that the first company was arrived; and then this Captain should deliver into their hands an Officer of his Relations, for an hostage, till such time, the second troop or company should be arrived.  
This treaty was faithfully executed, for those two companies happily got out of the Country into a place of surety, with their arms and baggage, under the conduct of this Captain. We must not forget one remarkable circumstance; which is, that the Vaudoises would never consent to leave the Country, till such time, as their kindred, who were in Prison, were released, and sent to them; whence it must be concluded, that this treaty, was managed by the Court of Turin; seeing these Captives, could not be released, but by its order.  
The Vaudoises, who were in the Vale of St. Martin, did almost the same things, as those had done in the Valley of Lucerna. For altho' they were reduced, at last, but to 25 Men, and some Women and Children, yet they defended themselves, with such vigour and resolution, that they also procured themselves passes, to retire to Switzerland, with their Wives and Children, arms, and baggage.  
We have already said, that those in one Valley, knew not what passed in the other, because the army cut off all communication. Could they have joined, or heard of each other, no doubt they had made a more advantageous composition, and perhaps delivered their Brethren out of their captivity. For if the Court of Turin were willing to keep an Army in the Vallies, to hinder the attempts of the Vaudoises; or designed to People this Country with Savoyards; who would be far from inhabiting there, as long as there were these People in Arms; there is likelihood, that to get rid of them, they would have consented to the deliverance of the Prisoners.  
Whilst these Vaudoises retired into Switzerland, by means of their own Valour, which procured 'em both hostages and letters of safe conduct, the Evangelic Cantons did all they could, for the deliverance of the Captives. They had wrote several times fruitlessly to the Court of Turin on this occasion. But their zeal and charity being never wearied, they therefore convocated an assembly at Arau in the Month of September 1686, in which 'twas resolved to demand again the releasement of the Prisoners: they sent for this effect two Deputies to the Count de Govon, the Duke of Savoy's resident, at Lucerna in Switzerland; and having showed him the reasons, which engaged the Evangelic Cantons to interess themselves in behalf of the Vaudoises, they entered into a treaty with him in the beginning of October, with the consent of their superiors. Which treaty obliges the Duke of Savoy to permit all the Prisoners to come into Switzerland, and to clothe them, and defray the charge of their Journey till they came on the frontiers; where the Evangelic Cantons would take care of them, and conduct them into the heart of their Country; To the end they might not be in a condition, to return to Piedmont. When this treaty was made, it was without doubt, unknown at Lucerna, that the Vaudoises we now spoke off, were already retired; for there is an article, which says, that the Duke should give them passports in good form, to enable them to depart safely, and freely, which would not have been inserted in this treaty, had what had passed, on their account, been known. However the Cantons immediately ratified this treaty, which the Duke did not, till some time after in a letter, he wrote, on this occasion, in which he directs the course, which the Prisoners were to take, over Mountains, then inaccessible, and through the Country of Valay, which depends, neither on the Duke of Savoy, nor the Swissers, and through which there could be no entrance, without negotiating with the Bishop of Zion, to whom it belongs. It's apparent, 'twas designed to raise obstacles against the performance of this treaty, otherwise they would not have marked out the way into other Countries, than those of Savoy, where the Roads lie more commodious to go into Switzerland. The Evangelic Cantons complained of this, to the Count de Govon, about which having writ to the Court of Turin, the Duke at length gave order, they should pass through Savoy, to the Canton of Berne, and caused the Prison doors to be set open: but this was not before the midst of Winter, and in so rigorous a season, that according to all appearances, those who had escaped the hardships in the Prisons, must perish in their way.  
It will be very difficult to represent all the miseries and calamities, which the Captives have endured, during nine months' imprisonment. Yet there are exact memorials of what hath past, in each particular Prison, which is matter enough for a particular history. But we shall content our selus, with giving some general representations of the miseries they have suffered. They were carried then into Prison, at divers times; and as fast as they surrendered themselves, or were taken. They were dispersed to the number of twelve Thousand Men Women and Children into 14 Prisons, or Castles of the states of Piedmont; and were more or less severely used, according to the humour of those, who were the keepers of the Prisons; but it's certain they were every where exposed to great hardships, and sufferings. Their allowance in every Prison, was but bread and water, neither had they enough of that; in some Prisons they had very black bread allowed 'em, which had no substance, and such as was kneaded with filthy water, that run down the kennels, and in which was found all manner of nastiness. In other places they had stinking water given them, and such as could not be drank, but by those, who were ready to perish with thirst. They were obliged in some places, to go and fetch water out of horse-ponds, and wherein were dogs thrown, at the same time they took it. In certain places they were not suffered to draw water out of wells; that being judged too good for them. In other places they were permitted to have water only, at certain hours, out of which they were not to have any; which has occasioned several sick Persons to expire through need of a glass all of water to refresh them. They were forced all of 'em to lie on bricks, with which the floors are paved in Piedmont, without straw; or if they had any given them, in some places; it was either such as was so short, that it was mere dust, or else such as was musty. They were so straitened, and penned up in some Prisons, that they could not stir without great difficulty, and when they died, which every day happened, the apartments were filled up with others, that they might have no more ease. The stifling heat of the summer, and the filthy corruption with which the Chambers were infected, by reason of the sick, had engendered such a great quantity of louse, that the Prisoners could have no rest, either night or day. They were also troubled with great worms, which gnawed their skins. There were several sick people, who may be said to have been the worms food in their life time. For these poor people, not being able to rise up, they were so gnawed with them, that their skin, being already rotten, fell off from their flesh in small pieces; and in this miserable and languishing condition, did they lie, till their deaths had put an end to all their sufferings. They did not only endure all the inconveniencies of an excessive heat, but moreover those of a severe cold; seeing that in the midst of Winter, they had never any fire given them, nor any clothes to warm them, altho' they were in high rooms, the greatest part of which lay exposed (without windows) to the weather. They never had any light allowed 'em in the Winter or Summer, to relieve the sadness of their conditions in the dark nights, and to help the sick amongst them, several of which have perished for want of succour. A great many Women have also died in Childbirth, for want of help in the night; and their loss has been followed with that of their Children, who have received death, at the instant, wherein they should have obtained life. Sick people have been severed from the sound, and laid in open places, exposed to the injuries of the Air, the winds and storms. But this cruelty, has been in some sort, a kindness; seeing it has brought them to the end of their miseries, in the end of their lives. In other prisons, there have been several children sick of the small Pox, laid in wet yards, and under the spouts, to have the water fall on them. They were not contented in not assisting the sick themselves, they also hindered charitable people, from bringing them broth, and other necessaries. When the prisoners, have dared to complain of the little charity showed them, they have been laden with injuries, threats, and blows. They were told that instead of showing them compassion, they should be used like dogs, till they were all dead. There was scarcely any prisoner, who was not burdened with some distemper. There have been so many sick, that no less than 75 have been counted to lie ill at one time in a Room. There have been taken out of the prisons a great many young children, notwithstanding the tears and supplications of both them and their Parents. In fine the prisoners have underwent such hardships, that it's scarce credible, there should be so much cruelty, amongst those who bear the Christian name; were it not well known, to what point the Enemy's of the Vaudoises have extended their fury. But we cannot doubt of the excess of their rage, when 'tis notorious that above eight thousand of these poor creatures have expired, under the weight of this cruel slavery.  
Yet as if it was not enough, that their bodies were thus afflicted, they have been moreover persecuted in their souls. For the Monks and Friars have used all possible means to make them change their Religion. But God had endued them with the grace of persevering to the end, and there were few who fell under the burden of the temptation. Those who turned were not used so severely as the rest, but were notwithstanding detained in captivity.  
The prisoners were in this piteous condition, when the Duke of Savoy, caused to be published in the prisons the order, which permitted them to go forth, and retire into Switzerland. This publication was not made every where in the same manner, nor at the same time; but successively, and according as the prisoners were set at liberty. Yet it was read in most of the prisons by an Officer of Justice, who causing the prisoners to come before him, declared to them that all those who would depart out of the States of Piedmont, to go into Switzerland, might do it, and even those who had promised to change their Religion; because the promises which had been made in prison, were to be considered, as forced, and consequently void. He added they were at liberty either to go or stay, if they became Catholics. Yet the prisoners had not all the liberty of choice which they pretended was granted them. For the Monks and Officers of the Prisons, who were present at this publication, endeavoured to avert the effect of it. Sometimes they were told that the rigour of the season, and the cruelty of the Soldiers which conducted them would destroy a great part of them in the way. Other times, they were flattered with the hopes of returning into their own houses, if they would abjure their Religion. But these considerations not being able to prevail on them, they were many times grieveously beaten, as it happened in the Prisons of Ast where the Governor gave them a thousand blows, with a Cane, in the presence of the Auditor Leonardy. They were shut up in Dungeons, and in the most noisome, and filthy parts of the Castles of Queirasque and others. In fine, there were so many obstacles, laid before them, that some fall under the temptation, and yielded to a change of Religion. But instead of resetling them in their houses, they were lead (as it were) into captivity into the Province of Verceil, the least grateful, and most barren place in all the Duke's Dominions. We must not omit some Circumstances, which are considerable enough, the one, that several young children, as well those who were brought up in prison, as others who were dispersed over Piedmont, having known that liberty was granted the prisoners, pressed earnestly to go with their Fathers and Mothers, but this could not be obtained; the other, that the permission of departure, was not published, in the Prisons of Lucerna, but only fixed up at the place, to the end the prisoners might not have the advantage of it; and in fine the prisoners who were in the Dungeons of Ast and their families, which were in the Citadel of Turin, had not the benefit of this Declaration.  
Soon after this publication, the Vaudoises were made to set forth in several Troops or Companies, which were conducted to Geneva by the Duke's Officers and Soldiers. It was promised by this treaty made with the Count de Govon, that the Captives should be clothed, and yet there were nothing given them, but some ragged old coats and breeches; but it was not only in this point, that the Treaty was not executed, it was violated in several others, of greater importance. For besides the cruelties which were exercised on several Companies, they were bereft of a great many of their children, in their journey. There happened two things amongst others, from which one may judge of the rest. The one regards the prisoners which were at Mondovi, who about Christmas were told, there was an order the Contents of which was, that if they did not immediately depart, this liberty would be revoked the next morning.  
These miserable poor creatures were all in a sick and languishing condition. Yet did they choose to be gone immediately without any convoy, and to expose themselves to eminent danger, rather than to groan any longer, under this cruel Captivity. They set out then in a night, the most cold and incommodious imaginable, and traveled 4 or 5 Leagues without resting on Snow or Ice, but with that misfortune, that there were above 150 who fell by the way and died; their brethren not being able to give them any assistance.  
The other respects the prisoners which were at Forsan. There were a company of these poor Captives, who having lain at Novalaise, at the foot of Mount Senis, perceived the next morning, at their setting out, that a great storm was rising on this Mountain. Some of this company showed the storm to the Officer, who conducted them; and entreated him to stay till it was past, and not to expose them to apparent danger, and to have pity on so many persons, most of which were without any strength or spirit; they also told him, that if he would be so charitable to them, they should ask him for no bread; choosing rather to abide without any nourishment, than to throw themselves into this danger. But this Officer had the cruelty to make them travel immediately, and to Sacrifice a part of them to his barbarity. For there were fourscore and six who perished on the Mountain by the storm. These were Ancient infirm people, women and small children, who had not strength to resist the severity of the weather, and whom their friends were forced to leave, as a prey to the wild Beasts. This Officer not suffering them to pay them any charitable Office. The following Companies, and several Merchants, who passed soon after over this Mountain, saw the bodies of these poor creatures, stretched out on the Snow; the mother's having still their children in their arms.  
The Evangelic Cantons, having been informed of the taking away of the children, from their parents, and other bad usages of the Vaudoises, in their way; thought themselves still obliged in charity, to endeavour their relief. They sent Deputies for this end to the Court of Turin, as well to favour the journey of the several Companies, who were not then arrived at Geneva, as to demand the restitution of the children, taken up in the way, and other young people of both Sexes, who were dispersed in Piedmont, at the surrender of the Vallies. And receiving at the same time a Letter from the Count de Govon, by which they were informed, that his Master had referred for some time the deliverance of the Ministers, and would not release some prisoners, who had been taken with their Arms in their hands, and were condemned to work all their lives on his Royal Highness' fortifications. The Evangelic Cantons therefore commanded their Deputies to demand the liberty of the Ministers, and all other prisoners, according to the treaty made with the Count de Govon. But before we speak of the success of this Negotiation, we must see in what condition the Vaudoises were, when they arrived at Geneva.  
They came thither at several times, and in several Companies, which in all made not above 2500 persons; but they were all in so bad and deplorable a condition, that it is not possible to express it. There were several of these poor people who dropped down dead at the Town gates; and who met with the end of their lives, in the beginning of their liberty. Others were so dispirited with sickness and grief, that they were expected every moment to expire, in the arms of those who had the charity to sustain them. Others were so frozen with cold, that they had not the power to speak; some staggered under the weight of their distempers and wearyness, others were deprived of the use of their limbs, and could not hold out their hands to receive the assistance which was offered them. The greatest part of them were naked, and without shoes, in fine, both one and the other carried such marks of an excessive suffering and extreme misery, that the hardest heart must needs be grieved at it.  
The Companies staying some time at Geneva, to rest and refresh themselves, before they parted for Switzerland; those who were first arrived, went out to meet those who came next, to inform themselves touching the condition of their relations, of whom they had not heard, since the troubles in the Vallies. A Father demanded news of his child, a child what was become of his Father, an husband of his wife, a wife enquired after her husband, and every one endeavoured to learn what was become of his friend; but this being commonly in vain, seeing most part of them were dead in prison, this occasioned such a sad and lamentable Spectacle, that all the beholders melted into tears, whilst these poor people oppressed and overwhelmed with excess of their grief, were not able to weep and bemoan themselves.  
But if it be difficult fully to represent the misery of these poor People's condition, it's no less hard a task to express the abundant Charity, those of Geneva showed in these occasions. The Inhabitants strove so fast to meet these piteous objects to bring them into their houses, that the Magistrate was obliged to forbid the people's going out of the Town, to avoid the inconveniencies which this hurry caused. Every one strove who should have the most of these sick and distressed Persons, to have the more occasion for the exercise of their charity. They were tended not only with the same care, as their own Children, but moreover as Persons which brought peace and a blessing into their families. There has been an extraordinary care taken of the sick, of which several have died at Geneva; and some of which, do still carry the marks which the worms have made in their bodies. All the Vaudoises, who needed clothes, have been furnished, either by those who lodged them, or out of the Italian stock, the managers of which have showed from the beginning, to the end, the marks of a tender compassion and ardent charity.  
But it was not only in Geneva, where the Vaudoises were so kindly entertained, they met with the same compassion in Switzerland, where the Evangelic Cantons received them, in the most generous and Christian manner imaginable. And 'tis not only in respect of the Vaudoises, but also of the other Protestants, that one may say, that the Country of Switzerland is an assured port of divine appointment, for the reception of those, who are exposed on the waves of Persecution.  
The Deputies then of the Evangelic Cantons being arrived at Turin, demanded the liberty of the Ministers, and other Prisoners, and the restitution of the Children, as well of those who were taken away from their Parents, in their Journey, as of those who were dispersed in Piedmont, at the time of the surrender of the Vallies. They showed that in respect of the Ministers, there could be no lawful pretence to detain them, not only because they were comprehended in the treaty, made with the Count de Govon; but moreover because they were the principal objects of the Swissers intercession; besides that it's very just to remit the pastors to their flocks, to comfort and encourage them under their sufferings. As to the Prisoners, condemned, for all their life time, to work on the fortifications, they likewise showed, they were not to be distinguished from the rest, under pretence they are more faulty. For 1st. the treaty makes no exception to their prejudice: and says that all the Prisoners in general shall be released. 2dly. The Count de Govon has himself declared in a letter, which he has wrote on this subject, on the part of the Duke his Master; that they pretended not to retain any Prisoners. 3dly. That seeing his Royal Highness was willing to grant safe conducts to those who were actually armed, on greater reason, liberty should be granted to the Prisoners in question, to depart; who have been always considered, as far less criminal. And as to the little Children, they showed, that as well those aught to be released, who had been taken away in their passage, as them who had been dispersed in Piedmont, because both one and the other were retained contrary to the engagements of the treaty. But neither the solicitations nor arguments of these Deputies, produced any effect, they only served to procure the restitution of some of the Children, which were carried away in the passage. For the surplus are still in the states of Piedmont. It's true that the Court of Turin hath promised to deliver the Ministers but would not fix the time. As yet they are dispersed, with their families which consist of forty seven Persons, into three Prisons or Castles, where they be strictly kept, and exposed to several incomodiousnesses and miseries, without any appearance of their liberties.  
And thus you have an abridgement of what has past that is most considerable on the occasion of the dissipation of the Churches and Inhabitants of the Vallies of Piedmont. There needs no more to show, there was never any persecution more unjust and violent. As to these poor People themselves, they hope that all the Reformed states, will look with an eye of pity on their sufferings, and have some feeling of their griefs. They are the remains of those Mother Churches, that can claim the greatest and purest antiquity, who from the bottom of their Alps had enlightened a great part of the Universe. But they are such sad remnants, and those reduced into so small a number, and such a deplorable condition, that we cannot behold either their diminution, or their misery, without being pierced with extreme sorrow. They implore then the protection of Kings and Princes, and Protestant states, and in fine of all true Christians. They entreat them by the remembrance of what Christ has done and suffered for them, to give ear to the sorrowful cries of the oppressed, and to continue their charitable exhibitions to a remnant, whom God has delivered from both a corporal and spiritual bondage. By which means they shall be enabled to pray without ceasing for their Benefactors, that God would reward their charity with uninterrupted peace, health and plenty, in this life, and with immortal glory, in the world to come.  
His Royal Highness of Savoy's letter to the Inhabitants of the Vallies.  
To our most dear and faithful subjects of the Vallies of Lucerna, Peirouse, St. Martin and parts of Prarustin, of St. Bartholomew, and Rocheplate. The Duke of Savoy Prince of Piedmont, King of Cyprus etc.  
Most Dear and faithful Subjects.  
HAving taken very kindly the zeal and readiness wherewith you have provided us Men; who have served us to our entire satisfaction in the occasions which we have had with the Genoises; we are therefore willing to give you this present testimony of it, assuring you we shall not lose the remembrance of it, that you may find in all necessities the benefits of our Royal Protection, as you shall more particularly understand from the Count and Intendant Boccaria, whom we have commanded to declare more fully to you our thoughts in this matter, and who is to take an account of the Officers and Soldiers, who were killed or remain Prisoners, to make to us a report of them; that we may not be ignorant of their condition. In the mean time these presents will serve you for an assured testimony of our satisfaction, and Prayers to God to defend you from all evil.  
From Turin the 5th of November 1678. signed. C. Emanuel.  
To the Commonalties of the Vallies of Lucerna, St. Martin, Peirouse, Prarustin, St. Bartholomew, and Rocheplate.  
The copy of a letter written to the Count Boccaria by his Royal Highness.  
My Lord and most Dear, etc.  
THE Men whom the Commonalties of the Vallies of Lucerna etc. have so well served us, that being willing to testify to them our satisfaction, we therefore have directed to you the letter subjoined to this, that you may deliver it to them, and may more fully express to 'em the good will we bear them. Requiring you likewise to assure them, that when ever their needs require, we shall have a particular regard to their affection, and at the same time do you take a note of the Officers and Soldiers who were killed or taken Prisoners to make a report to us thereof, that we may take order accordingly. Thus remitting to your care, whatever more is necessary to signify our satisfaction and pleasure in their zeal and readiness, we beseech God to preserve you.  
At Turin the 5th of November 1672. signed C. Emanuel.  
To the Count Am. Boccaria Councillor of State and superintendent General of the Vallies.  
The order of Don Gabriel of Savoy in favour of the Inhabitants of the Vallies.  
Don Gabriel of Savoy, Marquis of Rive, General of his R. Highness' Army both of Horse and Foot.  
The Officers here below mentioned of the Vallies of Lucerna, having given such proofs of their zeal for his Royal Highness' service, in all occasions, which have offered, especially in the commotions of this Province; That we think our selus obliged to give them this testimony; to the end that in other exigencies, wherein his Royal Highness' service shall be concerned, they may be encoraged to continue these proofs of their zeal. And therefore by virtue of the authority which we have from his Royal Highness, we permit the below-mentioned to wear and carry Arms, provided they make no ill use of them. And we command all those depending on our orders of General, that they neither give nor permit to be given them any trouble for so doing, this being his Royal Highness' will and pleasure.  
Given at Mondovi the 29th of Sept. 1681.  
FINIS.