A Three fold Help TO POLITICAL OBSERVATIONS Contained in three DISCOURSES.  
Written by that learned and experienced Gentleman, Sir Jsaac Wake.  

1. The first concerning the thirteen Cantons of the Helvetical Leagve, Or of the Swissers.  
2. The second declaring the State of Italy, as it stood near about the year 1625.  
3. The third touching the proceed of the King of Sweden in his Wars in Germany.   
Published for the benefit of the diligent Observer.  
LONDON, Printed for Andrew Crook, at the sign of the green Dragon in St. Paul's Churchyard. 1655.   

The Preface.  
Gentle Reader,  
THou hast here presented to thine own, and the public view, three distinct treatises, written upon several subjects, and several occasions; But because they have all one Author, and were not much different in time, and especially because (though they seem strangers in their Titles) yet there is a kind of affinity in the subject matter of them, as being all descriptions, of several parts and provinces, and bearing equal Marks of judgement, and policy in affairs of state. It was thought fit to bind them up together, that so they might become more considerable in the sale, to him that was to bear the charge of printing them, and likewise yield more variety of pleasure and content, if not of profit and advantage to the judicious Reader: for though it hath been said by some, that things of this nature, when once they are known do lose the estimation we had of them before, yet certainly an active understanding man will find a way to enlarge his knowledge, by the use of them, upon future occasions, when they shall be offered. For otherwise, what benefit shall we reap by History, discourses of all kinds, or any practic knowledge, which we shall attain unto? though both the State of these Provinces and the affairs, and relations of the World, as to them, have suffered many great alterations, since these treatises were written, yet such are the continual vicissitude, and changes of all sublunary things, as though it be not probable we shall ever see them settled in all points as they were before, yet may they come so near either in the same, or other parts, as that these observations may serve as landmarks by which we may steer our course in the like conjunctures.  
The Author of all these three treatises was Sir Isaac Wake, a man of exquisite humane learning, strong parts of nature, and a most refined wit, able to penetrate into the depth of things, and give a judgement on them, grounded upon solid reason: These parts, both of nature and learning, assisted with a neat expression of his own conceptions, not only in the Latin tongue (wherein he was excellent) but also in the vulgar languages, together with a logical invention, made all his composures not only Methodical, but pleasing and perspicuous  
To all these may be added, as the Crown of all, his long experience in affairs of state, as having been many years employed an Ambassador abroad to foreign Princes, both by king James, and the late king Charles, wherein he behaved himself so dexterously, & judiciously, as not only gave full satisfaction to his Masters, but procured him love and respect from all those Princes, and Republics, with whom he was to negotiate, and raised him to that credit, and reputation amongst them which did much facillitate the expedition of affairs to his Master's honour (whereof he was ever most Jealous) and his own deserved-commendation. The Reader may observe in the first of these treatieses, a particular example of his admirable dexterity, in expediting the most intricate affairs, when they were held almost inextricable. That Gordian knot (as he calls it) about the Pais de Vaud, which (notwithstand the interposition of most of the potent Princes of Christendom) continued forty years, without finding any man that could unloose it, was by his ministry, and not ordinary endeavour, at last untied; and though he out of Modesty and duty, ascribe all this (and that deservedly) to the wisdom and felicity of his Master's Genius: yet the juditions reader may observe that excellent temperamentum to which this difficult business was reduced through the ripeness of his Wit and judgement, whereby it was at last composed. Having said thus much of the worthy Author (of whom much more might yet be said, if it were fit to be inserted in a Preface.) There will be no need to speak much of the treatises themselves, their own worth will bring both delight and profit to the observing Reader. The first of them may perhaps appear to him the most exact and perfect description of those parts, which hath hitherto been offered to the public view.  
The second was peculiarly proper to our industrious Author, whose constant course it was, upon all remarkable changes, and alterations either at home or abroad in the Provinces under his charge, to give a summary relation of all affairs transacted there, and of their ends and interests, who sat at the stern to guide them, by which means his Masters and their Ministers of state at home, received great light and information, how to steer their course, and give directions to their public Ministers abroad. The benefit which accrues from these general relations, is remarkable in the state of Venice, whose Ambassadors are bound to give an exact account to that grave, and wary Senate, of the Condition and interests of all those Provinces where they reside, and when they return home, to give a full relation in writing, of the State and condition of those parts, as they stood when they departd from them, and these are carefully kept in Archivis for their future use and information.  
The last of these three discourses (it must be confessed) may seem imperfect, yet is it composed with so much sound judgement grounded upon reason, and experience as may give the dilignt Reader a full and perfect view, of the Motives which perswadeded, and the ends to which the proceed of that glorious king of Sweden were directed. It hath been held a piece of policy in the Ancients, to leave all their great and magnificent works in some one part or other unfinished, that so there might be Desideratum quid something for desire to long after, and wish for, till it be satisfied, the want whereof, works is us so great an estimation of that which appears admirable in itself, as that it seems a pity, that it was not brought to full perfection. But when once the mind of man is fully satisfied, our admiration ceaseth, and with it the value, and esteem of that which once we did admire; it cannot be reasonably supposed, that in so short & succinct a piece as this, any such ambition could cause the Author to leave it imperfect; But yet the want of that which should have been the conclusion and application of the whole discourse, may haply stir up some active brain, to supply that defect, and it may perhaps be thought no point of defficulty, for one acquainted with those times out of these premises, to draw a right conclusion. Only it is to be feared, that it may prove like that Capo di venere (as the Italians term it) that unparraleld Head of Venus, cut out, and delineated with exquisite Art and Beauty by that rare statuary, who intended to have fitted the whole body to it, but was prevented by death: and though there were then, and have been since, many excellent Artists in that kind, yet such was the rarity and admirable sculpture of that Head, that no man ever after, durst put a hand to finish what was left undone.  
However (gentle Reader) if thou find either Content, or profit in this or either of the other two Discourses; Thine be the benefit, and mine the pain. And so I bid thee heartily farewell, and rest  
Thy loving friend IGNOTUS.   

A DISCOURSE OF THE Thirteen Cantons OF THE HELVETICAL LEAGUE  
THe 13. Cantons of the Helvetical League are these, Zurick, Berne, Lucerne, Vrie, Swits, Underwald, Zug, Glaris, Basil, Friburg, Soloure, Schaphusen, Appenzeil.  
Of these, four are wholly of the reformed Religion, namely, Zurick, Berne, Basil, and Schaphusen. Two are mixed, namely Glaris and Appenzeil, but the greater part in both those Cantons are Protestants, and generally they do concur with the four above named towns.  
The Popish Cantons are in number seven, Lucerne, Vrie, Swits, Underwald, Zug, Friburg, and Soleure.  
The first that did Cantonize themselves were Vrie, Swits, and Vnderwald, in the year 1308. upon occasion of Tyranny which the house Austria did exercise upon them, which first League was afterward more solemnly confirmed by a public Act, signed and sealed at Brunen in the year 1315.  
Lucerne was the next that entered into this Alliance, in the year 1332. The name of Lucerne was given to that Town upon occasion of a Lantern, or beacon that did shine there in the night, to give light to those that did pass upon the lake.  
After Lucerne, Zurick did Colleague itself with the four Cantons above named, Anno 1351. and had the prerogative to be ranged in the first place, by reason of the greatness of the Town, which was very famous in those days, and still it doth hold the chief rank among the thirteen Cantons.  
Glaris did enter into this Alliance in the year 1352. and the same year Zug was likewise Cantonized 1352. The year following 1353, Berne entered into the same association, beginning with Uri, Swits and Vnderwald, which three Cantons did oblige themselves to Zurick and Lucerne, to secure them when they should need, and to bring with them those of Berne, if Zurick and Lucerne should require it, as likewise Zurick and Lucerne did promise to assist Berne, when the three Cantons should summon them thereunto.  
Friburgh made first Allliance with Berne, Anno 1403. and by their means were joined to the other Cantons, upon certain conditions.  
Soleure entered likewise first into confederation with Berne Anno 1351. and held good correspondence with the other Cantons afterward having assisted the other Swisses against the Duke of Burgundy, they and Friburg together were taken into the number of the other Cantons.  
Basil was made a Canton Anno. 1501 and received into a perpetual. confederation of all the body of the Swisseses; Schaphusen made first Alliance with some of the lesser Cantons, for term of years, and lastly, Anno 1501. that Town was taken into the general league Helvetick: the name of this Town is taken from Scapha, or Skiffe, as being seated upon the Rhine in the midst of certain rocks, which cause the river to to precipitate sike a torrent, by reason whereof it is impassable, so that all boats that come from the lake of Constance, are forced to unlade there & from the number of boats, the Town taketh his name.  
Appensel is a Village situared under San Gallo, a great Town on the frontier of the Grisons; In this village the Abbot of San Gallo was wont to reside, and from thence the village dotl: derive his name, Appenzel being as much as Abbatis Cella. The inhabitants did first set themselves at liberty by force of arms, and afterwards they did purchase both their peace and freedom with a great sum of money, whicd they did pay unto the Abbot. Their first Alliance was with Zurick, Lucerne, Swits, Underwald, Zug and Glaris, and in the year 1513 they were received into the number of the Cantons.  
The Alliances that the Swisseses have with their neighbours are these; first with the Abbot and Town of San Gallo; Secondly with the Grisons; Thirdly with the Valesiens, Fourthly with Rotoille, Fifty with Mulhouse, Sixtly with Bienne, Seventhly with Geneva, Lastly with Neufchastel, which confederations are not in general with the body of the Swisseses, but particular with particular Cantons; some Cantons having taken some of the above named Towns into their Conbourgiosie, and others taken other some; the Grisons are allied with all, and have besides particular alliance more strait with some particular Cantons.  

Baliages.  
The Baliages that are governed in common by the thirteen Cantons, or the greater part of them are these: Turgow, Bade, the Rhegujces, called in their Language Rhintal, Sargans: the free Country Lugano, Locarne, Mendrise, the valley of Madia, and Bellinsone: of these Rhintal and Sargans confine with the Grisons, and speak that Language. Lugano, Locarne, Mendrise the valley of Madia, & Bellinsone, are beyond the Alps, on the othet side of the mountains San Gotard, and San Bernard; the other three, namely Turgoro, Bade, and the free Country are properly Swisses.  
All the Cantons have not equal authority over these Balliages, but as their associations were made in divers times, so likewise the right of the Cantons is divers.  
Turgoro is commanded by the seven first and most ancient Cantons, namely, Zurick, Lucerne Vri, Swits, Vnderwald, Zug, and Glaris who do alternatively send Bailiffs thither, but Berne, Friburg and Soleure, have likewise some little right in causes criminal.  
Bade is subject to the same seven Cantons, and Berne, Sargans, Rhintal and the free Country is likewise governed by the first seven Cantons, only in the government of Rhintal they have given part to Appensel.  
The four Balliages beyond the hills, namely, Lugano, Locarne, Mendrise, and the valley of Madia, is subject to all the Cantons except Appensel, who have nothing to do there, as being incantonised, after the winning of those places.  
Bellinsone is subject only to Vri, Swits and Vnderwald, every one of which Cantons hath a Castlel or Citadel in the Town, commanded by a particular Officer of their own.  
That which they call the free Province is certain Castles and Villages situated along the river of Russ, above and below Bremgarten, the names of the chief Villages are Meyenberg, Richensce and Ergow, which ancienly had their jurisdiction and their Magistrate apart, whereupon they were called les Provinces libres.  
The greatest part of these Provinces were subject formerly to the house of Austria, and in the reign of the Emperor Sigismond, when Frederick of Austria contested with him, the said Emperor persuaded the Switses to take arms against Frederick, and promised them that they should retain whatsoever they could conquer over Frederick of Austria, by which right they hold the most of their Bailliages, on this side the hills.  
As for the places which they hold beyond the Alps, their right is somewhat questionable: they pretend that in the year 1513, when they did help Maximilian Sforza Duke of Milan to chase the French out of Italy, he did in lieu of their assistance give them the four Balliages confining with their Country, namely 
a Lugan lieth from Milan N N W ● a point W. 47. Miles, and being prodigal of his name communicates it to a lake called the lake Lugan which tendeth N. and S. and is in length 20. Miles, and where it is broadest 8. Miles, and narrowest 3. Miles.  Lugano, 
b Locarne lieth from Lugan 20. Miles N.N.W. and is situated at the Western side of the great Lake, called in that respect il Lago Maggiore which tendeth N. N. E. and S. and by W. and is in length 47. Miles and breadth 7. Miles.  Locarne, Mendrise, and the valley of 
c The Val de Madia lieth between Mont S Gotardo (called anciently by Ptolemy Adula, more modernly Dogel, and now as formerly, in regard of a little Church built in honour to that Saint Gotardo) and the lake Maggiore, it tendeth N. N. W. and S. S. E. 40. Miles in length, and 7. broad. The town Madia standeth by a River of that name, which confineth the Valley.  Madia, and that afterward Francis the great when he recovered the state of Milan, did confirm unto the Swisseses, the former donation of Maximilian Sforza, by a public Act passed at Fr●burg.  
But in a relation that I have seen of the State of Milan, I find that they are accused to have usurped those places, in the time of Lewes the 12. King of France, il quale (saith my Author) havendo guadagnato to stato di Milano, & Licentiato li Swisser chi havenano Jeruiti in quella impresa, & fatto loro ogni dimostratione di gratitudine, non solo con gl'intieri pagamenti, ma con molti doni et pensioni, quessi medesimi ritornandosene à casa occuparono Belintina insolentissimam le, non assignando altra ragione di quel che facenano, che l'ssere loro necessaria quella pialla, per aprirsi il passo allo stato di Milano, quando havessero voluto entrarui senla haverlo a dimandare ad altro Principe. & enstandi il Re Luigi per la restitutione, risposero superbissimamle: che volevano anche la Murata, & Lucarno appresso, per farsi pin facile l'entrata in Italia a voglias loro, & cosi lo pisero in essecutione etc. Tesoro Politico 1a part fol. 295. impress. Francofort. 1610.   

Which comes in English thus.  
Who (saith my Author) having obtained the State of Milan, and permitted the Swissers to departed, that had served him in that enterprise, and shown them all demonstrations of gratitude, not only by allowing them their whole pay, but by many gifts and pension, bestowed amongst them. Those very men returning home, most insolently surprised Belinsone, giving no other reason for it, but that the place was very necessary for them, to open their passage into the State of Milan, when they had occasion to pass that way, that so they might not be compelled to demand it from other Princes. And King Lewis using all means possible for the restitution of it, They most proudly answered, that they would also have Murata and Lucarne ere it were long to make their passage into Italy more easy at their own pleasure, and this they brought to pass etc. Tesoro Politico i ᵃ part. fol. 295. printed at Erancofort 1610.   

The Swisses foreign Alliances  
Among the Alliances which the Swisses have at this present, the most ancient is that with the house of Astria, which is hereditary and perpetual, and common with all the thirteen Cantons; they receive no pension, non deniers de Paix, as they call it, this for Alliance, in regard that the Austriaci do buy the League dear enough in letting the Swisses enjoy peaceable what they have conquered of the dominions belonging heretofore to the house of Austria.  
The second general Alliance that the Swisseses have with foreign Princes, is that which is contracted betwixt their whole body, & the Crown of France, for which the French King doth pay in yearly pensions the value of 30000 franks, which is divided among the several Cantons by a Geometrical proportion, and not Arithmetical; for every Canton doth not share alike, of these Deniers de Paix, but they have some more, some less, according as some are able to contribute more men than others to the service of that Crown.  
The Duke of Savoy and his house, hath a general Alliance with the whole Helvetian body, which is called une League de regard containing no particular restriction to defensive or offensive succour one of the other, but only fair and good correspondence befitting neighbours, whose states are confining.  
With the Catholic Cantons the said Duke hath a particular league, namely with Lucerne, Vri, Swits, Vnderwald, Zug and Friburg, of whom he is to have six thousand men for his service at his own cost, in case of defence, and in lieu thereof he doth pay to those Cantons the yearly sum of 9 thousand dueatons, which is distributed likewise by unequal portions, and part thereof is allotted to the common treasury of every one of those Cantons, part to particular persons, who are of most credit and Authority in their Country. This league was made in the year 1579. in the time of the Duke Emmanuel Philibert, and the durance thereof is expressed to be, during the life of the said Duke, and of his son Charles Emmanuel now living, and ten years after his death.  
The king of Spain hath a league with the forenamed six cantons Catholics, namely Lncerne, Uri, Swits, Vnderwald, Zug, and Friburg, and likewise with Apensel, which is a mixed Canton, consisting half of Protestants, and half of Papists; He doth pay in continuation of this Alliance an yearly pension of fifty thousand ducatons, which is divided betwixt the Treasuries of each Canton, and particular persons, proportione Geometica, and he is to have of them all for the defence of the State of Milan six thousand men, at his own charge. This league was contracted Anno 1589. in the time of P●●lip the second King of Spain, and is to last during his life, and his son the King that now reigneth, and ten years after both their deaths.  
When this league was first made, Spain had small credit in this Country, and the French crown was only respected there, insomuch that the King of Spain was enforced to desire the Duke of Savoy, who is now alive, to interpose his authority, which was great with that people, for the effecting of that Alliance. Howsoever the French Ministers did at that time oppose themselves against it with such heat, that the league was made with conditions as disadvantageous to Spain as might be, namely, barely defensive for the State of Milan, in case of invasion, since that time the Spaniards (according to the custom of that nation) have encroached a great deal, and by the help of the jesuits, they procured in the year 1604 a declaration of certain articles contained in the first league, which they did get to be extended more to their advantage then the intent was at the first, and in particular they obtained a specification of the passage to be granted through the State of the Cantons, for all strangers whom the King of Spain should have occasion to levy for his service in Italy. The French Ambassador did strongly oppose against that declaration at that time, but all that he could obtain was a reservation of the right of the French King, and that the said declaration should be understood not to prejudice in any thing the Alliance that the French King hath with that people.  
Since that time the Spanish pistols proving more weighty than the French crowns, Alfonso Casati Ambassador for the King of Spain in those parts, procured of the Canton of Uri, (in whose hands the passage is) a new declaration in the year 1616 in favour of the Spanish league, without reservation of the exception formerly interposed by the French Ministers, to the notable prejudice of the Crown of France, and likewise of the public liberty. Monsieur Vigier, who was resident in Switzerland at that time, in the absence of Monsieur de Castille, the French Ambassador, seemed to be much offended with that usurpation, and threatened to protest solemnly against the Canton of Vri, but when the public Diet was held at Bada, in the month of june the same year, though the matter was then fresh, in regard that the Lands-Knights were but newly passed at that time into Italy under the conduct of the Count Carlo Lodovico di Solz; Monsieur Vigier held his peace, and said nothing, having (as is imagined) received order out of France not to oppose himself against any thing that the Spaniards should do, by means of which connivance the Spanish party hath got so much ground, that hereafter it will not be in the power of France to counterpoise them, when they shall in these parts attempt any thing that may prove a disservice of the French King or Crown. Neque enim ibi consistunt exempla ubi ceperunt, sed quemlibet in tenuem recepta tramitem, latissime evagandi sibi viam faciunt: an evident proof whereof we see in the encroaching of the Spaniards in these parts, for whereas at the first they did not dare to specify the point of the passage in their Alliance, they did begin (as hath been noted above) in the year 1604. by way of explanation of their articles, to draw in the benefit of the passage, but which reservation of the right of France, in the year 1616. they renewed their declaration, without reserving the right of the French, and this year 1617. they have gone so far, as to take the point of the passage, for a thing granted, and without ask leave of the eight Cantons, who have equal jurisdiction at Bada, or of the twelve Cantons, who have the same right in the Bailliages beyond the hills, the Spanish Ambassador hath treated the business only with the Catholic Cantons, who are all now at his devotion, and in scorn of the Protestant Cantons, he did write letters to Zurick, Berne, and the rest, which did only advertise that the Walloons which Don Verdugo did conduct to the service of the king of Spain in Italy, were to pass through places of their jurisdiction, and that therefore they should do well to see them provided of victuals, and all such things as they should want, without using a word of entreaty or request in his letters, as if those had nothing to do in the business: as he hath at this present excluded the Protestant Cantons from having any thing to do in granting the passage through Towns subject to their jurisdiction, because the Catholics have the plurality of voices, so will he hereafter exclude likewise the Catholic Cantons, having already laid the foundation of that design; for, in his proposition this year 1617. in the month of April, at Lucerne, he demanded passage of the little Cantons, for four thousand foot only, and 1000 horse, without arms, and to pass by 200. at a time, a day's journey distant the one from the other, & notwithstanding that his grant was for no more, and in the form specified, he caused 6000. Walloons to pass and 1000 horse, together with their arms, so that hereafter he will allege this example, that as this year there have passed two thousand without leave so hereafter he may cause as many as he list to pass, and never ask licence for them, but take the matter as a thing already granted and accustomed. This league is now upon the point of expiring, for the ten years after the death of Philip the second, and his son Philip the third are almost run out, and therefore it will shortly appear upon the renewing of this league, whether the French will be so wise as to oppose against the above specified encroachments, or the Swisseses so careful of their public liberty, as to restrain it within the limits of the bounds prescribed in the beginning. As France is now governed, it is not likely that opposition will be made on that side, considering that the Ministers of that Crown, do visibly in all places cooperat towards the aggrandising of the Spaniards; and as for the Catholic Swisseses, it may be said as truly as it was said of Rome, O urbem venalem & citò perituram, si emptorem invenerit?  
Zurick and Berne have a particular league with the Marquis of Baden, and Turlach, contracted in the year 1612. during the life of the Marquis, and of Prince Frederick his son, and ten years after. It is merely defensive, and as each of those Cantons are to give him for his defence 1000 men at his charge, so he is bound to furnish them with the like proportion, at his charge, or so much money, the choice being left unto them, whether they will have men or money. This league is still on foot, although the Marquis hath lost most of his estate, for the Emperor hath invested a Nephew of the Marquis, called Edward in the Marquisate of Baden, and although Prince Frederic, his eldest son is suffered to enjoy the Marquisat of Turlach, in contemplation of the Duke of Wirtenberg, whose sister he hath married, and whom the Emperor is unwilling to displease, yet Tilly and Verdugo do lodge and quarter troops there at their pleasure, so that the Prince doth hold it, but as it were precariò.  
The Canton of Berne hath an Alliance and league apart with the house of Savoy, contracted in the year 1617. betwixt that State and Charles Emanüel Duke of Savoy, and it is to last during his life, the life of the Prince of Piedmont, and ten years after. They are bound to furnish Savoy with 3000. foot at his cost, and for the defence only of his estates, and he is obliged to give them 2000 foot, and 500 horse, or so much money, when the necessity of their defence shall require it. The birth of this league may be called partus elephantinus, in regard that it had been treated forty year before it could be concluded. The French King Henry the fourth did interpose himself twice as an arbitrator, but could not bring it to conclusion; The whole body of the Helvetical Cantons, did embrace it likewise divers times, but could never prevail, and lastly it was referred unto the Valesani, as to a Republic nearest confining, and strictly allied with both the parties, yet after many years' negotiation, and much pains they could effect nothing. In the year above named 1617. King James of glorious memory did interpose his authority, and as he had a particular genius which did incline him to endeavour the accommodation of all misunderstandings among all Christian Princes, and States, so God did miraculoussy bless those pious intentions of his, and in this particular his Majesty had the honour not only to extinguish that mortal hatred which had reigned ahove 60 years, betwixt the house of Savoy and that State, but to join and unite them in a strict bond of league and Alliance. The transaction of the business in itself is very considerable, in regard that so many had so long time traveled in that vineyard, and never reaped any fruit of honour, whereas his Majesty employing his servant Sir Isaae Wake thither in March, the Treaty was concluded ratified, and executed before the end of june.  
This Gordian knot, which was thought would have required the sword of Alexander to cut, before it could be undone, was tied in this manner. In the time of Charles le bon grandfather to the present Duke of Savoy, Charles the fift, and Francis the first warring one against the other, did par droict de bien ieame, share and divide betwixt themselves almost all Pied-mont, so that little being left unto the good Duke Charles, but Savoy and the Country of Nisla in Province, he was enforced for the supply of his urgent necessities to borrow a considerable sum of money of the Ss ri. of Berne, unto whom he did impawn for their reimbursement the Country of Vaud. After his death his son Emanuel Philibert having little to maintain himself at home, did adhere unto Philp the second, of whom he deserved so well in the Battle of S. Quintin, that the King was content to restore unto him that he did hold of his in Pied-mont, and because he married the Lady Margarite de Valois daughter of France, in contemplation of her. Henry the third passing through Pied-mont, as he returned out of Polonia, restored unto him likewise all that the French had usurped: yet was not this Prince able, with this addition to his fortune to redeem the engagement of the pais de Vaud, and being willing to enjoy quietly that which he had, he did confirm unto the Bernesis, the mortgage made by his father, so that they did live in peace during his time, though not without great jealousies, in regard of the hatred of the Savoyards their confining neighbours, who had always had them in detestation since the mortgage of that Province.  
Charles Emanuel now regnant, being born under a Martial Planet, and having sagittarius ascendant in his nativity, did affright the Bernesis at the beginning, and not long after it did appear that they did not fear him in vain, for he did presently cast his eye upon the Pais de Vaud, and because he could not abruptly break the contract of Mortgage made by his Granfather, and ratified by his father, and was not able to pay the principal and interest, which in so many years was grown to a great sum, he did lay his first claim to the Town of Geneva, in the defence of which City the Bernesis being engaged, they were of necessity to declare themselves his enemies, and so minister unto him a fit occasion of invading them, which was the thing that he did aim at, and he had fortune so favourable, that in the year 83. as I take it, he did shut them up so close in Cologne, a Town three miles distant from Geneva, near the Rosne, that they were enforced to yield themselves to his discretion. If false friends had seconded his true valour, it would have gone hard with Geneva and Berne both at that time. But the Spaniards upon whom he did wholly rely, at that time desiring only to embroil and consume him a petit feu, and not to make any addition unto his fortune, did divert him from prosecuting that design, and turn him with his Army upon the conquest of Marseilles and Provence, during the combustions of the league in France. After he had wearied himself there, they did animate him to the conquest of the Marquisate of Salulles, which did succeed to his advantage in Italy, but to his loss on the other side of the hills, drawing upon him the victorious arms of Henry the fourth, who did enforce him to exchange Salulles with the Bailliages of Bresse, Baugó Verommè and Gez, which were the best flowers in the garden of Savoy. Now were the Bernesis out of danger, those confining Provinces being out of his hands, and their state in the protection of the French King, whom they had asssisted during his troubles, both with men and money: yet did their jealousies still continue, until the invasion of Monferrat Anno 1613. did draw upon the Duke of Savoy the arms of the king of Spain, which did enter into Piedment first Anno 1615. under the conduct of Don Gio: di Mendoza Marquis of Hyntioza, and secondly Anno 1617. under the command of Don Pedro di Toledo: it was time now for the Duke of Savoy to seek for help from all places, and therefore despairing of ever recovering the pais de Vaud, he was contented to give over a lost game, upon condition that he might get some reasonable consideration, for his resignation. Here is the knot which I mentioned, for he did pretend much, and the Bernesi would not give any thing, alleging that they would not buy that which was their own already. Towards the untying of this knot, the authority of his Majesty was used, the Duke of Savoy imploring, and the Bernesis accepting of his mediation: means was found to reconcile these contradictions, with mutual satisfaction, for the Duke of Savoy did receive as much as he could with reason expect, and yet the Bernesis did not stipulate with him for any thing; the expedient taken was this. The Bernesis were desired to concur with his Majesty in the assistance of the Duke of Savoy against the violence and oppression of the Spaniards, and in consideration thereof his Majesty did promise and undertake to give them a final and total resignation of the Pais de Vaud, free from any future claim or pretention. To gratify his Majesty, the Bernesis did send unto the Duke of Savoy four thousand men paid by them for three months, and in requital of this favour Sir Isaac Wake did present unto them two formal Acts, the one of the Duke, and the other of the Prince of Pied-mont, which did contain an absolute session of all future claims or pretensions by any of that house to the pais de Vaud. This point being accommodated the treaty of Alliance was instantly concluded, but neither in the preface nor in the Articles was there any mention made of the succours sent by the Bernesis, or of the resignation of the pais de Vaud, it being an Act passed merely by his Majesty without any mutual stipulation of the parties, and as the Duke of Savoy and the Prince of Pied-mont did trust Sir Isaac Wake with their Resignations, so did the Bernesis give likewise unto him four thousand men to dispose of, as his Majesty should be pleased to command, and so all differences were accommodated with reciprocal contentment of both the parties, and with much honour to his Majesty, who had no partner in this work, but the God of peace, whom he did truly serve, and who did bless his pious intentions. I have the more willingly specified these particularities, because the difficulties supposed to be insuperable, serve to illustrate the honour of my gracious Master, whose glorious memory I shall desire may be perpetuated unto eternity.   

Misunderstandings and jealousies.  
Having showed the strength of that State which doth consist in the bond of union, and confederation among themselves, and Alliance with foreign Princes, I must now point out some symptoms of misunderstandings and jealousies, which do indicate the weakness of that body, and threaten danger of the dissolution thereof in time.  
The first, like original sin, is derived from the birth, and first conception of their liberty, which hath drawn upon them, and upon their posterity an hereditary ill talon of the house of Austria, who remembering very well that in former times they were sovereign lords of all that province, will never forget the wrong which they do conceive hath been done unto them, by those who under the pretext of vindicating their lives and honour from the oppression of tyrannical officers and Governors, have enfranchised themselves and cast off the yoke of subjection which they own unto the Arch Duke of Austria, their natural Prince and Sovereign. This will never he forgotten, but manet alta ment repostum, and when the Austriaci shall have power answerable to their will, they will call these people to account, and like rivers deturned by force, seek to break away and enter into their first and original channel. Berne and Friburg may seem to pretend a little exemption from this general contagion of that body, in regard that they were enfranchised from their first foundation, by the Duke of Ziringa their founder, and the name of the latter doth imply. If this were granted, that freedom must be confined within the walls of those Towns, & cannot be extended unto the enlargement of their dominion, wherein they have more than any one Canton, of what did anciently belong unto the Austriaci, and the Bernesis have a special mark of greater envy than all the rest, in regard that they are masters at this day of the Castle of Habsburg, which was the patrimony of Rodolphe the first Emperor of the house of Austria.  
Secondly the neighbourhood of the King of Spain, and the vicinity of the French Country of Burgandis, is another thorn in the side of that body; although Spain of itself doth not pretend any thing that way, yet being head of the Austrian family, they have a principal interest in all that doth belong unto that house, and if that were not so (as is too evident) yet the natural inclination and genius which that nation hath, dilatare fines imperij, doth draw upon them an envious reputation of being ill neighbours, besides that the greatness of that Monarchy doth bring it within the compass of the Italian proverb, which doth forbid a man to dwell near four F. namely, Frati, Fiumi, Forni and Forti, and by consequence greatly injealous all the Swisseses, who have the last F. at their door. Besides, as Duke of Milan, & the king of Spain have a mortal quarrel unto all the Cantons except Apenselle, for their having usurped (as he doth allege) the Bailliages of Lugano, Madrise, Lucarne, and Belinlona, which wre members of the Duchy of Milan.  
These are the main jealousies, with which that whole body is troubled, and indeed all that I can remember, the Duke of Savoy being not to be spoken of in this place, in regard that Geneva is not numbered among the Cantons.  
The particular misunderstandings are so much the more to be feared, as internal mischiefs are more dangerous than external; they are many, and have several branches, but may be reduced all unto one head, and that is an alienation of affections, hatred and rancour caused by their division, in matter of religion. This fatal distraction hath bred a mortal faction, in which most of the Princes of Christendom have part, the Pope, Emperor and Spain openly fomenting, France and Savoy favouring the Catholic party, and all the reformed Princes and States, wishing well unto the Protestant side. These latter have no other motive but pure zeal, and a desire of the preservation of that true religion whereof they do make profession, the orthodox Helvetians being a principal member of the reformed Church, and having like a Seminary produced men of extraotdinary learning and zeal, who have laboured in the vineyard of reformation, with much pains and great profit to the Church, such as were Zuinglius, Oecolampdius, Simler, Hospinian, Waser, and many others who for converting of souls, do now shine in heaven, like stars in the firmament. Those who do foment the Catholics, have divers ends, for although it may be presumed that the Pope doth intent nothing but the reduction of that whole body to the obedience of the sea of Rome, wherein likewise there is so much mixture of worldly respect, as the increase of spiritual Fairs and Markets, do fill his coffers by the vent of his indulgences and pardons, yet it is certain, that the Emperor and the King of Spain have ragione di stato, which doth move them to adhere and take part with the Catholic Cantons. For besides that those divisions and factions, are like the cutting of Samsons locks, the strength of that body consisting in union, as his did in his hair, if at any time they can prevail so far, as to kindle a war in those parts grounded upon religion, they will soon make an end of the quarrel, by setting upon both, parties when they have weakened one another; this design is so well grounded, that it may perhaps rake effect in time, for since the reception of the Jesuits in jucerne and Friburg, exacerbations have daily increased, and nothing but the fear of a foreign enemy doth keep them now from a civil war. From this original fountain of habitual dissension, grounded upon difference in religion, are derived many small streams of discord, which inereasing the misunderstandings of those people, are with much artifice cultivated by those who for spiritual or temporal respects, desire to trouble those waters: I cannot particularise in all, because ever and anon the Catholics do make by the instigation of their partisans, and their own natural inclination, une querelle d' Allemande, against the Protestants in which they do get nothing, because they do meet with men that do understand reason, & will not be out braved, but I will point at three issues which I have observed in that body, that do run perpetually, and will hardly be stopped, depending all of them upon the first head of division in matter of Religion.  
The first is a difference betwixt Berne and Friburg, who have four Bailliages in common, which they do govern alternatively in this manner, that when Berne doth name the Magistrate, he is bound to take his oath at Friburg, and when Friburg doth nominate him, he is to do the like at Berne, The names of these Bailliages, are Murate, Gransone, swarsbourg, and Eshallons, and by public Acts of convention betwixt the two Towns it hath been stipulated long since, that for the preventing of misunderstanding betwixt them, their subjects of those common Baillages should be left at liberty, to exercise what religion they listed, with this proviso, that when any of the commonalties should require le plus (which is as much as putting the question) it should be granted, and if the Catholic party had most voices, than no Religion should be exercised in that jurisdiction, but the Roman, if the Protestants were supernumerary then the Catholics were to yield. It hath so fallen out that the Preachers of the Gospel having got the start of the Priests and Friars, le plus, hath been demanded some years since by all those four Bailliages, and the voices being all in advantage of the reformed religion, Popery hath been utterly exterminated. Friburg which hath equal jurisdiction alternatively, cannot endnre this innovation, and the Jesuits who are potent in that Town have counselled a division of those four Bailliages, that two may be for Berne entirely to dispose of as they will, and the other two be left free for Friburg. The Bernesis will not hearken to this motion, but to hold themselves strongly unto their capitulation, wisely foreseeing, that if they should come to a division, the Friburghesi would drive out the Protestants out of those two Bailliages, which would touch unto them, and replant the Roman Religion.  
The second is a dispute betwixt Zurick: and the little Cantons about the Country of Torgaw, which being mortgaged some years since to Zurick, and not redeemed, possession was taken, the Zurigani acknowledged for sovereigns, and the whole Country reform and made orthodox. The little Cantons instigated by the Nontio and Jesuits, do except against the reformation, and because that cannot be altered as long as Torgaw is subject to Zurick, they do offer to repay the money, which the Zurigani will not accept, as well knowing that the point of religion is only aimed at.  
The third and last which I will note, is a controversy betwixt Glaris and Swits, about a Bailliage in common betwixt them both. For the understanding of this puntilio, it is to be noted, that the Cantons of Glaris is mis-party, half of the reformed religion, and the rest Catholics, but the Protestants have in all assemblies of that Canton, more than two thirds of their favour. Betwixt the Canton of Glaris and Switz by the Capitulations and Charters it is agreed, that in that Bailliage common betwixt them both, alternatively each Canton should depute their Bailiff. In virtue of this capitulation both the Cantons have alternatively named their Bailiffs, and I think that Glaris being mis-party did usually name one of their body that was a Catholic, when it appertained unto them to nominate, but it is certain that they have of late chosen one of our religion, against whom those of Switz have excepted, only for being of the religion.  
These three controversies are still kept on foot by the Roman and Austrian party, and as they are always debated at the general Dyett, held at Baden upon the nativity of Saint john Baptist, so they always part without resolving any thing upon these particulars   

Of the form of Govenrment.  
The name of a Republic doth imply an union, and that hath reference to an unity which is the beginning of numbers; for the delineating of this commonwealth, we must of necessity have recourse ad quantitatem discretam, because it is not continua, the body of their union, and unity of their body consisting in an accumulation or aggregation of thirteen Republics different in form of government, but joined in a formal association among themselves for the preservation of their public liberty. The several lines drawn from thirteen particular and distant superficies, and meeting all in one centre of public association; do make a show of uniformity, and of this body Zurich is the visible and figurative head, all letters written from foreign Princes or States, or from any of the particular Cantons which do require communication unto the Helvetian body, being to be presented first unto the Borgomasters of that Canton, who have authority to open them, and to call a public Dyett at Baden, for the communicating of all such letters, and returning of answers as occasion shall require. They have no public laws which do bend their whole body in matter of government, every Canton governing itself by constitutions of their own framed suitable and proportionable to the Aristocratical state of some, and Democratical of others. Yet their Magna Carta, or Charter of association hath some show of a fundamental Law, for that doth not only combine them together in their league of mutual defence, but bind them likewise to stand to the decision of the major part, in all cases which concern the integrity of their body, such as are the admittnig or not, of any new Town or state into the association of their common body, the renewing or dissolving such leagues as the whole body hath with foreign Princesorstates, as namely with the house of Austria, France, Grisons, and Valesani, the granting or denying levies required by any confederate Prince of all the Cantons, the passage and transportation of foreign Armies or forces through their State, and the like. In all which cases a Diet is to be called at Baden, and there the plurality of voices is to decide the cause, every Canton sending thither two Ambassadors, or Deputies, whose first commission is only ad referendum, and when they have acquainted their several Masters with what hath been proposed, then doth every Canton send unto their Deputies their resolution, yea or no, and according to the plurality of voices the question is detemined. Some other constitutions there are, which although they be not enacted by public decree, yet are they religiously observed by every several Canton, and those do concern leagues, which not the whole body, but any private Canton or Cantons do contract, with any foreign Prince or State, wherein there are some Articles which do run in form, and are called Helvetical Customs. I will note some few, because I cannot take notice of all. 1. All their leagues are merely defensive for the conservation of all their Allies, but not to offend his enemy by way of invasion, being their friend or neutral. 2. That Regiments be kept entire, and quartered together, not lodging one company in one place, and another in an other. 3. That justice be administered by their own officers without appeal to the Prince or State whom their soldiers do serve. 4. That their men be not commanded to go to any assault, but only to guard Towns or trenches, or to fight in battle, in which last case, if the day prove theirs, they are to receive a months pay extraordinary. 5. and lastly, They may not be made to serve by sea, either upon ships or galleys. They have no public stock or treasury, or any common Arsenac or Magazine of arms, but as every Canton is provided severally, so in case of invasion they are to send a proportion of men paid and furnished with ammunition of war and victuals. When they do make an offensive war (which is not usual) then such Cantons as do concur therein, are to have part in the conquest, proportionable to what they do contribute. At Baden they have a kind of Chambere de Contis, and every year at the feast of Saint John Baptist, their Bailiffs, which do alternatively administer and govern those Bailliages which are in common, do there give up their accounts, which are reserved and kept in Archives there. If any foreign Prince do call a public Diet at Baden, to propose any thing, his Ambassador must defray all the Deputics that meet there upon that occasion, during the time of that assembly, one of the Borgomaster of Zurich being always speaker or prolocutor in those Diets, and returning the answer to the Ambassador in the name of all the rest.   

Confederate Neighbours.  
GRISONS.  
MY relation being confined to Helvetia, I will speak of their neighbours no more than what doth concern their relation unto the Helvetical body. The Grisons are the Antemurali of Helvetia, towards the County of Tirol, and with them besides the ligue de regard which all the Cantons have with the three leagues of the Grisons, called the Grisa, là di Dio, & Dieci Dritture, the protestant Cantons have in general an Alliance of defensive combination, and the two Cantons of Zurick and Berne a More specifical confederation tending to the defence of that Republic. The Bishop of Coir is a perpetual lapis scandali, for he doth pretend to be supreme Prince of that state as well in temporalibus as in sbiritualibus, and whosoever doth reside in that sea, is fomented by the Austriaci, encouraged by the Pope's Nuntio residing at Lucerne in Helvetia, and favoured by the Catholic Cantons. The Archduke Leopold did aspire many years to that Bishopric, and there is nothing more feared in those parts, than that one day some Prince of the house of Austria, may get the possession of that Church. The Grisons do not pretend jus nominandi, which is free to the Canons of the Church, and cannot be taken from them, but they have so tied the hands of former Bishops with capitulations, that the temporal govenrment doth remain in the hands of the three leagues, and the Bishop hath nothing left him but the name.  
These people were for a long time wholly devoted to the service of the French Crown, and Henry the fourth did not only much esteem of their Alliance, but carefully watch over the preservation of that Republic; for the security whereof, he employed his potent offices to join them in league with the Venetians; but that league expiring within a few years after his death, the French Ministers did so much neglect and contemn that nation, that the Austriaci and Spaniards had the opportunity, first to raise a party or faction with whom they did treat Alliance, and afterwards to seize themselves by force, of Rhoetia and the Valtelina, from whence did spring all those troubles and innovations that have been in those parts, since the year 1617. until the present, at which time having been worse cured by the Physicians of France Venice and Savoy, than they had been wounded by their enemies, they do enjoy but a shadow of liberty, and do incline again to treat Alliance with Austria and Spain.   

San Gallo.  
San Gallo bordering upon Glaris, & Appenseil doth confine with Suevia, toward the lake of Constance. This town is populous, rich, of great trade, and is in a manner wholly orthodox and reform. The Abbot doth claim sovereignty, and style himself Prince, governing absolutely throughout all that jurisdiction, except the town, which having enfranchised itself, and excluded him, doth live free under protection of the Cantons, who do carefully invigilate upon the preservation of that place, as being a principal bulwark of defence unto them from any invasion which may be atempted by the Austriaci, by the way of Suevia.   

Milhusen.  
Milhusen confining with the Rauraci towards Alsatia, is the best defence the Swisses have that way, and the only guard of the town of Basil. The Archduke Leopold doth look with an envious eye upon the liberty spiritual and temporal, which they do enjoy under the protection of the Swisseses, and these are very jealous of their preservation, especially the Protestant Cantons, who are paries proximus, and unto whom the Austriaci in general, and the Archduke in particular doth bear a very ill talon. They have often consulted upon fortifying that Town, which would quickly be made very defensible, but the Citizens being poor and not able, and the Swisses covetous and not willing to disburse any money, it hath hitherto been neglected, and may in time endanger their ruin.   

Valesani.  
This Republic doth consist of seven Ditains' or Tithings, every Ditain being an aggregation of ten Parishes. Their form of government is Democratical, & all the people have a deliberatire voice in the election of officers, and the determining of public affairs. The Bailiff (who is the representative head of that Commonwealth) and the counsellors his assistants, do always reside in Lion the Metropolis of that State, and from thence they send to the several Ditanis for their votes, upon all important occasions. They have a perpetual quarrel with the Bishop of that sea, who doth claim Monarchical sovereignty, which it should seem his predecessors have in former times either usurped or enjoyed, if not absolutely (which I will not decide) yet in a very great latitude, as may appear by the Cardinal Bishop of Lion, who not a hundred years since, did bring into Italy an army of thirty thousand men, for the service of the Pope. This could not be done without much authority, and great revenue, which is so much diminished at this present, that the Bishops of latter years have scarce wherewithal to maintain honestam familiam, & dignitatem cum decoro; yet do they still pretend strongly to the recovery of what they do conceive hath been unjustly taken from them, but the Magistrate doth so clip their wings, that they cannot fly very high, wherein that Republic hath this advantage, that no religion being professed there publicly but the Roman, (although there be among them a great number of orthodox) the Bishop cannot make it a question of religion, and by consequence doth want that open protection of the Pope, Emperor, Spain, and Catholic Cantons, which is upon all occasions offered to the Bishops of Coir, Basil, and Geneva, whose case is all alike, setting religion aside. This Repubilck hath a defensive league with the whole body of the Cantons, and likewise with the Duke of Savoy, but with State of Berne, they have a more strict confederation, in regard of the vicinity of both those States.   

Neufchastel.  
This County seated upon the border of a lake which doth take his name from the Town, is subject unto the Duke of Longueville, who is lord thereof, and so acknowledged: yet is not his sovereignty absolute, but restrained with immunities, & privileges which he cannot infringe or innovate: The inhabitants do enjoy le droict de combourgoisie with the Town of Berne, and in case of difference betwixt the Prince and subject, the lords of Berne are to decide the question. This is a great modification of Monarchical supremacy, in regard that appeals are never made, but to a higher power. They being all Protestants, the Duke hath often attempted to reduce then to the Roman religion, but they have still saved themselves by appealing to the Bernesis, by whom they are so potently protected, that when he did few years since transport himself in person to Neufchastel, and carry a priest with him to say Mass in the Castle, he was therein opposed, although it was his own house. The Duke is protected by the French King who hath often threatened to assist the Duke with a potent army, but hitherto he hath forborn the execution of that violent design, for fear, not only of the Bernesis, who are very potent, but of the Spaniards likewise, who will not suffer the French to be absolute Masters of a province which doth confine with the County of Burgundy.   

Bienne.  
This Town seated upon a branch of the lake of Newfchastel, is a little Republic allied with Berne by combourgoisie. They are all of the religion, and not troubled with any pretenders to their liberty spiritual or temporal, but do live securely under the protection of Berne, and do enjoy all the liberties of that Town as free denizens; serving jointly unto that State as a good antemurale against the French County of Burgundy.   

Geneva  
Geneva doth stand in the bottom of a lake, unto which it doth give name. The river of Rhosne doth run through part of the city on the one side, and the river Arva doth pass by it on the other side. This Republic was received into the protection and confederation with the Canton of Berne in the year 1592. or there abouts, and doth serve as a strong bulwark to secure the Bernesis from any invasion that way. Henry the fourth of France, in the time of the league, did employ his best offices to incantonise this Town, wisely foreseeing that in time Spain would overbalance France in Helvetia, where he (being then a Protestant) could only promise unto himself the devotion of four orthodox Cantons, and the two misparties, and Spain was sure of the other seven. Plurality of voices in the general Diet of Baden, doth oversway all businesses, but equality doth make a stop, and enforce sine temperamento. If he could have made Geneva a fourteenth Canton (as his purpose was) then the Pope, Emperor and Span had lost all hope of predominating there, which now they have with the odd voice: but since his death, the government of France hath fallen into the hands of ministers, who do what they can to advantage the Spanish faction in those parts, and to suppress those who were and are most devoted to the French Crown. Unto the sovereignty of this town the Duke of Savoy, doth pretend in temporalibus, and the Bishop in temporalibus & spiritualibus. The Town doth save itself, like an Animal amphibion, as may be seen by their arms, which are the eagle on the one side, and the keys on the other: with the keys, they do exclude the house of Savoy alleging that none can pretend there but the Bishop, and with the eagle they do soar over the Bishop, declaring that their City is imperial. If any man be curious to see the state of this controversy, let him read le Chestal. Savoysien, written by a Savoyard, and the answer thereunto, called le Cittadin di Geneve, written by Mr, Saralin, though his name be not affixed: these are pamphlets of small volume, which do state that question pro & contra. Pere Monnau a Jesuit confessor unto Madam Chrestienne Princess of Piedmont, hath likewise written a book in octavo in favour of the house of Savoy, which was printed in Turin Anno 1622. but never published or divulged; a copy whereof Sir Isaac Wake did send to Geneva, as soon as it did pass the press, and if they be not provided of an answer, upon all occasions, it is their fault. The situation of this Town doth secure it from danger, for it cannot be besieged unless armies do lodge and quarter within the dominions of France Savoy, and Berne, and that there be a fleet likewise to command the lake: if they be true within themselves, I do conceive it to be the most impregnable place in all Europe.   

Of the use of correspondence in those parts, as far as it doth concern the Crown of England.  
IT is a Maxim irrefragable, that when enemies or ill-willers do oppose or malign the proceed of any Prince or State, they are to be esteemed behooveful and advantageous for the Actors. From that Aphorism I do conclude that the correspondence of his Majesty in Helvetia and Rhetia is not only good but necessary, having found by expecting that the Pope, the Emperor France and Spain, have expressed displeasure at the appearing of any Minister of his Majesties in those parts, upon whatsoever occasion.  
Extension and latitude of correspondence doth add unto the honour of great Princes, and most commonly conduce to their service, as was well known & observed by the wise Cardenal Wolsey, who left no Prince nor little State of Christendom without an Ambassador or Agent of his master. The Venetians do observe the same stile, and Henry the seventh who did hate foreign Ambssadours in his own Court, was frequent in employing his own abroad.  
If it be said that we have no need of them, it may be answered, that perhaps sometimes they may have need of us, and being fellow-members of the body of our Religion, do deserve not only countenance but protection. The Protestants in those parts are often braved by their Alleys of the Catholic Cantons, who being fomented by the Popish and Austriacal party do insult upon them many times, Contentions and disputes do arise often, and the poor and simpler sort of people intimidated with the apprehension of so potent enemies; do unwillingly concur with the Magistrates in the defence of their liberty and conscience, in such cases (which are frequent there) the sight of a minister of so great a Monarch as is his Majesty, will invigorates the most stupid among them and the opinion of his royal protection will encourage them to maintain a good cause.  
The seat of that place is very proper observe to andamenti of those upon whose proceed it is fit that wealwayes have a vigilant eye, for from thence as from a watchtower we may easily discover long before whatsoever they do intent.  
Those people are not only auxiliaries, of which most princes doth serve themselves, especially France and Spain, who do buy the love of the Cantons at a dear rate, that they may be furnished with men, when they shall require any: in which regard it will be fit that his Majesty were always advertised aforehand when any levy is intended to be made in those parts, that knowing what innovation is machinating by any of those Princes who do require auxiliaries, he may govern himself accordingly as the state of affairs shall minister occasion.  
The passage out of Germany into Italy and Vice Versa, is a point of important consideration, and as it may import much to know when any passage is demanded, and by whom, so will it be easy for a careful minister, to discover aforehand the design of those that ask the passage, and perhaps he may sometimes have credit enough (upon some occasions either to stop or delay the passage, if it may prove prejudicial to any friends of his Majesties, or to facilitate it, if it may turn to their service or advantage.  
The State of Venice and the Duke of Savoy his Majesty's good friends, notwithstanding their Alliance with some of the Cantons, may have use of the power and credit of his Majesty in those parts: for as in the year 1615 the Protestant Cantons, did upon a letter of his Majesties of glorious memory, grant the passage through their dominions unto such troops as the Count john de Nassaw had then raised for the service of the Duke of Savoy, in despite of France and Spain, and in the year 1618. the Bernesis at the request of his foresaid Majesty did lodge in the Pais de vaud and give quarter unto Count Mansfelts army (retiring then out of Pied-mont) four months together, until Vorcelli was surrendered, so hereafter occasions of the like nature may present themselves, wherein his Majesty may favour his friends, with his authority and good offices.  
Lastly, it is to be presumed that the Palatinate and Marquisate of Baden shall be restored in due time, and in that case the neigborhood of the four Evangelical cities, who have Alliance with Strasbourg, may prove of good consideration, and a Minister of his Majesties will be necessary to cement the intelligence and good correspondence which may be renewed betwixt those Princes and the foresaid Cantons.   

Of the name and Original of the Helvetij historically.  
MAny nations do seek their pedigree further than it can be found: and some of them are sorry to find what they did seek. Quicquid quaeritur, optimum videtur: yet a modest ignorance is in many cases more comfortable, than any vain curiosity can profit. The Arcadians did flee beyond the moon, and call themselves 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. The Helvetians (like their Antipodes) go under ground and pass the centre of the earth to seek their original. They are not ashamed to derive their extraction a Dite inferorum Deo, and their name hath consonancy with their fantasy, for Helvatter in their language is the father of Hell, and anciently they were called Helvetteri qnasi inferno nati, which name the Romans with the advantage of a more easy pronunciation, did corrupt into Helvetij.  
This etymology of the name will easily be accepted by those who will give credit to Aegidius Tschudus, and Henricus Glareanus, who do affirm that the ancient Gauls did speak the Germane tongue, and especially that of the Helvetij, for although I will not affirm the uniformity of their language, yet this conceit de Dite Patre either was infused to the Gauls by the Helvetians, or common to them both as one people; for julius Caesar doth write of the Gauls in this manner, Omnes se ab Dite Patre prognatos praedicabant, idque â Druidibus proditum dicebant. This name anciently formidable to the Romans, was in a manner extingushed when Aulus Caecinna did overcome and beat them aplate cousture ad Vindonissam, which was so perfect a conquest, that he did divide the whole Country into two Provinces, Sequance and Rhaetia. After that conquest, they did look more towards Germany then towards the Gauls, and in time did wholly pass into the name, manners, customs, and tongue of the Germans; when being impatient of their subjection to the Romans, the inhabitants did join with the Germans, to deliver themselves of bondage.  
The second name and most known of that Country at this day is Saitia Switzerland, but the etymology is as uncertain as of the former, in regard of the variety of opinions; some (with the addition of the letter s. at the beginning would derive them à vitis a people of Saxony, whom Charles the great did drive out of their own country for frequent rebellions, and confine. within the strait passages of the Alps, Others run into Sweden, and bring them from the Sueci, who in the time of king Sigebert made a transmigration out of Suecia, and planted themselves in this Country.  
A third opinion there is of some wise in their own conceit, who do baptise them Swisses, from a war which those of Zurick did make eight years together in the time of Frederic the third against those of Swits, Glaris, and their confederates. But we need not go so far, for it is most probable that the wholly Country did take this name from the village or now Canton of Swits where the first foundation of the Helvetical league was laid, the fabric whereof was shortly after raised to perfection, by a memorable victory which they gained not far from that village upon the Austriaci, who came with great forces to break their new begun confederation.  
So much of the name; as for their first plantation, they do pretend almost as high as the flood, for they do believe that Zurick and Soluere are coetaneall with Triers, the first foundation whereof is thought to have been in the time of the Patriarch Abraham, almost two thousand years before the birth of our Saviour; All the Annals of Helvetia are constant in this assertion, and I will rather believe them, them seek arguments to confute them.   

Of the extension of Helvetia.  
This Country was anciently confined betwixt the mountains jura, and lake of Geneva, Italy and the Rhine. Now Basil, Schpahusen, and Roteville, which are beyond jura, and the Rhine and the Lepontij, namely those of Belinsona, Lugan, Locarne and Madrise, on the other side of the Alps towards Italy, being incorporated into that body, have much increased the ancient limits thereof from the north towards the South.  
The Gaeodectical longitude according unto Caesar's account, should be 240. miles, and the latitude 180. Most of the later Geographers do agree with him in the longitude, but they do conceive that he did extend the latitude further than it did reach in his time and Glareanus (who doth excuse Caesar, by saying he did take it upon trust and hearsay) hath contracted it to the extension of three day's journey. Ortelius to 160. miles, john Henry Switlerus, to 100 Tschudus and Mercator to 80. with these supputations, the journals do well agree, for from Geneva to Constance (which are the extremities of the length) they do account 48 leagues, and from Basil to Saint Gotard (which is the breadth 20. one of those leagues, being near about five Italian miles, the difference will not be great, betwixt the account of the former and of the latter.  
These were the ancient bounds of Helvetia, the breadth whereof (as I have noted) is now augmented since their passing the hills, and having added unto their dominion a good part of the Duchy of Milan.  
From hence the Cosmographical Longitude, and Latitude may easily be collected. For Como called Forum Varronis with which they do now confine, being in the Latitude of 45 degrees and 6. Minutes, and Basil in 47. and 30 the difference willbe found to be of 2. degrees, and 24. Minutes of Latitude, and will cut through the midst of the sixth Climet unto the beginning of the seventh. The difference of the Meridions, or of the Longitude, from Geneva unto Saint Gallo near Constance, which is the greatest Extension from the West towards the East, is about 3 degrees and 46 Minutes of the lesser Circle if we follow the Maps, but being examined by the Calculation of the Triangles, it doth contain 5 degrees, so that the whole Country is bounded and confiened, within the Meridian's, 27.30. and 32.30.    

A DISCOURSE OF THE State of ITALY, as it stood about the year 1625. OR SOMEWHAT AFTER.  
Directed to the late KING CHARLES in the beginning of his Reign.   

Most gracious Sovereign,  
SEeing it hath pleased Almighty God, To establish your sacred Majesty in the royal throne of your ever blessed Father, I have held it my duty, with bended heart and knee, to present unto your Majesty at the beginning of your reign a short view of the present estate and condition of Italy, that therein, as in a little Map, your Majesty may see the true face of this province, and make such use thereof hereafter, as in your Princely wisdom you shall find to conduce most to the advantage of your own affairs, Crowns, and dignities.   


THE POPE.  
TO begin with Rome, that seat is possessed at this present by Urbane the eighth a Florentine by extraction, of the family of Barbireni, a Prince of of a vigorous age, active Spirit, great experience, who hitherto hath done little to be commended, nothing to be blamed. He did fall at the beginning of his reign into troublesome times, for his Predecessor Gregory the fifteenth did leave him a fosterchilde of the Valtelina, without any portion but charge, expense and trouble. This infant was surreptitiously taken out of the cradle by the Spaniards, who being not able to keep it longer from the true father, the Grisons in whose favour France, Venice, and Savoy did appear, did put it into the hands of the Church, as into a sanctuary. In the election of Pope Vrban the French faction had the affirmative and active part, for it was the hand of the Cardinal of Savoy that did put that Crown upon his head; the Spaniards had only a passive and negative part, in not excluding him, which favour they do account to be great, and he doth esteem to be something. As soon as he was enthroned, he did find his Crown to be full of thorns, for some of his promotors did pretend to all that he could give, and all unto something; to please all, it was impossible, to displease any, dangerous, until he had his house settled, and his friends about him. Being unwilling to disoblige France and the league, and fearing to offend the Spaniards, he did resolve at the first upon a neutrality, conceiving that, to suit best with his quality of Padre commune, and hoping in time to derive unto himself the honour of accommodating those differences by way of negotiation. But his expectation was deceived; for by this temporising the Valielina was lost, not without some dishonour to him, and so lost, that he hath no thanks from the league, and many curses from the Spaniards. This pill, although it were very bitter, he would have passed over, if it had wrought no further; but when the Duke of Savoy and the Constable d' Esdignieris did begin to march into the field, the Spaniards did grow so clamorous, that he was enforced to gratify them in such things as they did desire, though perhaps that which he hath done will not turn to their advantage. The things which they did require, were, that he should send his Nephew into France to procure a suspension of arms, and that himself should arm potently within his dominions to join with them in the defence of the Catholic Religion, and the liberty of Italy. These requests have been granted, for his Nephew is not in France, and he hath raised, and given order for the raising of twelve thousand foot & two thousand horse; but what his intention is to do, is hard to guests. It is certain that if he do love the French and the league but a little, he doth fear the Spaniards much, and therefore these arms of his may be as well to defend himself against them, as to offend any of the league, against whom he doth now profess that he cannot declare himself, because il suo. pegno, è in Francia; That he will employ his arms against the league it is unlikely; for although he doth inherit one quality of all his Predecessors, which is to hate the Venetians, yet he will fear to lose by the bargain, considering that the best part of his dominions doth lie open to the Adriatic sea, of which the Venetians are absolute masters, and may ravage all his country at their pleasure. That he doth fear the Spaniards, there are some probabilities, as his withdrawing the Jubily from the Church of Saint Paul, and shutting up of that gate which doth lead towards Naples: his taking in and railing a garden belonging unto the Constable Colonna, confining with Monte Cavallo, and seeming a little to command that palace, his having required the said Colonna, (who is a Roman, but Constable of the kingdom of Naples likewise) to deliver into his hands a Castle of his upon the confine betwixt Rome and Naples, and lastly, his having commanded all Cardinals and Prelates of quality, to bring their unwrought and unguilded plate unto his exchequer, allowing them upon the Monti (which are certain banks of money in Rome) one hundred and twenty four Julij, (which is five pound twelve shillings sterling) for every pound weight. These are arguments that he doth fear some body, and whom he can fear, but the Spaniards, cannot be imagined: for the kingdom of Naples is at his door: the French are too far off, the Duke of Savoy too weak of himself, and of the Venetians he is sure that if they may live in peace, they will disturb no body: some are so wise as to think, that secretly he doth understand with France, and that he would willingly lay claim unto the kingdom of Naples, if the league would bring the Spaniards so low, that he might dare to appear; but it doth plainly appear by his Ministers abroad, and their negotiations in all places, that he doth really and diligently seek to divert the storm which is threatened unto the Genoesi, and by consequence unto the Spaniards, whether it be that hope of good from them, or fear of hurt from innovations, or an ambition to be the arbitrator, doth move him none can tell but he who hath the key of hearts. It is likely that he would fain see an end of these troubles, because being a Priest and a Florentine too, he hath no mind to spend, and although he hath not done yet much for any of his house, yet perhaps he would imitate his predecessors in that kind, which he can hardly do until this storm be overblown.  
Until it shall appear what will become of Genova and Breds, he will not unmask himself certainly: but it is likely that according to the event of those two great enterprises, he may sail as he shall find the wind.   

The King of Spain.  
THe dominions which the King of Spain doth possess upon the Continent of Italy, are the kingdom of Naples, and the Duchy of Milan. Naples doth afford him good store of men, and some money. Milan some few men, but no money, with these two, they have long kept Italy in awe, rather by reputation then force: for they have not four thousand Spaniards in both those Provinces. The subjects have groaned a long time under a heavy burden of misgovernment, and if a fair occasion should be offered, it is thought they would willingly mutare dominum, non servitutem, especially those of Naples: for though the carriage of the Duke of Feria hath been moderate, yet he had ill fortune to fall into times, when the service of his Master would not suffer him to ease the subjects according to his desire. The best flower in the garden of the Spanish Monarchy is the Duchy of Milan, for that is the stomach from whence is derived the aliment which doth nourish all his states in Germany and the low Countries; that rest is now at stake; for if the Duke of Savoy and the Constable do encounter at Genova, a check given there, doth mate Milan, and the cards are so well packed, that if they no not shuffle them anew at Paris, it will prove a hard game, and very dangerous for the Spaniard. The vicinity of Helvetia, the proximity of Germany by the way of Tirol, the nearness and conveniency of Genova, did really make the state of Milan formidable to all Italy, and terrible to all their neighbours. If Genova do now fall, all hope of money is lost, and no more Neapolitans, Sicilians nor Spaniards can enter into Lombardy. The Swisseses, when they shall see that Genova, from whence they had all their Spanish pensions, is no longer at the devotion of Spain, will quickly faint, and they have likewise a strong counterpoise of the Protestant Cantons, which being declared for the league, do keep the Catholic Cantons in awe. As for Tirol and Germany, they are of no further consideration, for so much as doth regard the State of Milan, rebus sic stantibus: for the passages, which the Marquis di Coruvies hath taken in Rhaetia and the Valtelina do exclude all Almans from entering that way into Italy, and there is no other way for them, (the Duke of Savoy being of the contrary side) but only through the state of Venice, or of Switzerland. The kingdom of Naples is like old Rome, Venalis si emptorem invenerit, the first opportunity that shall present itself, will make them prove true Neapolitans, false to their last master, and ready to betray any that shall succeed; of Sicily, Sardinia, Majorche and Minorche, I say nothing, because they are Islands divided from the main, and like Pinasses must follow the fortune of these greater ships.   

Florence Parma Nodena Luca  
OF these I will speak together: be-because although they are supreme in their several circumferences, yet all their lines do meet in one centre of devotion to the Crown of Spain, Florence being bound to give four thousand men for Sienna, Parma three thousand for Piacenta, Modena two thousand for Pensions, and Luca two thousand for Protection; their obligations do run only for the defence of the State of Milan, but yet the Marquis of Hiniosa and Don Pedro di Toledo did serve themselves of their forces offensively against the Duke of Savoy in the last wars of Asti and Vercelli, and the Duke of Feria hath made bold to employ their troops at this time in favour of the Genoesi, as hath appeared by their ensigns and Commanders taken at Ottaggio. This may prove lapis scandali, and perhaps hereafter those Princes and states may be called to an account, by the French and Savoyards, for having appeared in a quarrel in which they had nothing to do. Heretofore Florence did proceed more warily as long as Cosmus the son of Ferdinand lived, for his mother Madam Christienne of Loreign, a Woman of imcomparable wisdom, did so temper that government, that Spain was served in what was due, and yet France was observed with a decorum befitting the extraction of the French king out of that house, and the Crown wherewith the queen mother hath honoured their family. But Cosmus the young Prince who hath since succeeded, being governed by the Arch-Duchesse who is sister to the Emperor, doth derive all the silver streams of that state unto the Austrian Mille, so that France is now wholly neglected, and only Spain respected. Edward Farnese Duke of Parma, being likewise very young, is governed by his Uncle the Cardinal Farnese, whose red hat being died in the Court of Rome must needs incline him to follow the Pope's directions, and that house having likewise the Dutchies of Castro and Caprarola lying within the kingdom of Naples, it is not to be marvelled if they do worship towards the south. But it may seem strange that Cesare di Este Duke of Modena, whose eldest son Prince Alfonso hath married Isabel the infanta of Savoy, by whom he hath ten children, should run so violently the other way. Herein there is a mystery full of cunning malice, and malicious cunning. For shorly after the death of Prince Philibert of Savoy, who died in Palermo the last Summer) a will of his was produced, wherein he did declare his sister of Modena haredem ex Ass, and bequeath unto his eldest son the Principalities of Oneglia and Marro. The Duke of Modena in virtue of this will, did lay claim unto all that might be thought to appertain unto Prince Philibert, and being opposed by the Duke of Savoy, who did first first except against the will as not being authentical, in regard that it was only drawn by a Notary, but never signed by Prince Philibert; and secondly allege, that the son had no power to make a will during the life of his father, and lastly that Oneglia and Maro had been lately conferred upon the Prince by his father, with express reservations of returning to the Ducal chamber of Savoy, in case the Prince Philibert should die without lawful issue, the Duke of Modena offended with this refusal, did flee off from Savoy, and cast himself into the arms of Spain: whose invention it was to cast that bone betwixt those two houses of Savoy and Modena, may easily appear by the rule of Cui bono. The father having fallen off from Savoy, his younger son Prince Luiggi di Este must needs fall off as soon as he could from the Venetians, whereupon as soon as they had entertained the Count de la Tour for their General, Prince Luiggi seeming to be offended therewith, did ask leave to be gone, and being taken at his word by these Sri. who did not like that the father should serve the Spaniards, and the son the league, he retired to Modena about two months since.   

Mantova.  
FErdinand Gonlaga, Duke of Mantova, hath his house free from any dependency by obligation, but as his controversies with Savoy did first enforce him to seek the protection of Spain, so since by marrying a daughter of Florence, and the marriage of his sister Eleonora with the Emperor, he hath espoused a  but absolute dedevotion to the service of the house of Austria. He is a Prince whose natural and intellectual parts are singular, & his moral good, unfortunate in having no lawful issue; for if he & his brother Don Vincenlo die without heirs male, their Niece the princess Maria, daughter unto the late Duke Francisco and the Infanta Margarita of Savoy, will carry from their house the marquisate of Montferrat, and a 100000. crowns revenue of Beni Allodiali upon the Mantovan. His differences with Savoy will never be reconciled, as long as the Spaniards have the upper hand in Italy; for Beati Pacifici is not to be found in any Spanish Liturgy. But in these present innovations he doth not yet appear, for Montferret concentrating with Piedmont, and Mantova being surrounded with the dominions of Venice, he hath only voluntatem liberam, but potestatem ligatam, with the State of Venice he doth hold very good quarter, and they do respect him as figlivolo di S. Marco.  
Of Genova nothing shall be said, until it may appear what will become of them; for as they are now, either they must stand by the strength of Spain, or bury the reputation of the Spaniards, in the ruins of their City and State.   

Venice.  
THe Venetians did lay the first stone of this great building, upon which all the present innovations in these parts are grounded: for they did wisely foresee, and earnestly remonstrate unto the French king and the Duke of Savoy, the danger which the public liberties would run, if the daily usurpations of the Spaniards and Austriaci were not timely prevented. Hereupon the league was concluded at Lions, ratified at Paris, confirmed at Susa, and executed first by the Marquis di Coruveres in the Valteline, and since by the Duke of Savoy and the Constable d' Esdiguisere in the Genoesate. Their proceed in this business have been, and are still mixed with a constant temper of generosity, and wariness; for they do not spare to assist and favour all that are contrary unto the Austrian party, as doth appear by their assisting the states of the united Provinces, their contributing to Mansfelt, their sending of men, money and ammunition to the Marquis di Coevures, their entertaining the Count de la Tour, and their resolution, to set upon the state of Milan when the Duke of Savoy and the Constable shall begin: and yet they do very cauteloussy keep themselves to the letter of the league, and therefore they will not take notice of Mansfelt until he may come so near the Valteline that it may appear he was entertained by them, only for that end, nor have any part in the enterprise of Genova, although they do very well know, that the weakening of the contrary party in any place, doth conduce unto the end which they do aim at. Good Chirurgeons do not descend unto Cauteries, but in cases of extremity, & it may be presumed of the wisdom of the state of Venice, that they would never have disturbed the peace of Italy, if they might have lived securely, without innovation. They are not ignorant, that the remedy is little less dangerous than the disease, but the disease being upon the point to grow incurable, they were enforced to apply that remedy which only could save them (as things did stand then) from present precipitating. Of their constancy there is no doubt to be made; for they do well know, that as they were the first that did raise this storm, so they shall be the last whom the contrary party will forgive, and they have a maxim in this state, that Priti & Spagnuoli non perdonano mai. The correspondences of the State of Venice, and at this present with Rome, are only formal with such Princes of Italy as depend upon Spain, ceremonial: with the French king and the Duke of Savoy real, with all Princes and states opposite to the house of Austria, cordial. By sea, in their own sea, they are strong. Upon Terra firma they have all their Cities well furnished, and for the defensive, they are in good state. How they stand in matter of treasure is a secret, but certainly omnes vias pecuniae norunt, and they do spend as if they did not fear to want.   

The Duke of Savoy.  
Charles' Emmanuel Duke of Savoy, with the Infanta Caterina did espouse the interests of Spain, and he was truly constant in serving that Crown and observing that King, until Philip the second making his peace with Henry the fourth did out of charity to himself exclude his son in law the Duke of Savoy, as may be seen in the Treaty of Veruins. Then did Henry the fourth lay claim to the Marquisate of Salulles, which Savoy had usurped by the counsel of Spain, and did retain upon hope of assistance which was secretly promised, but not performed, The Spaniards had obtained their end, when by the taking of Salulles the French were driven quite out of Italy; but because they did not desire that the house of Savoy should aggrandise itself, they were content to abandon him, and let the French king weaken him as much by the taking from him by composition, Bresse, Beaugé, Verome, and Gol, on the other side of the Alps, as might balance what he had added to his state in Italy, by the taking of Salulles: peace being concluded upon the conditions of that exchange in Lions, the Duke of Savoy did begin to see, that his alliance with Spain was an honourable burden, and a golden chain, which did captivate the liberty of his house, whereupon his wife being dead, he did shortly after bury in her tomb the best part of his affections towards Spain, but he did not fall off quite, in regard of his children, who being of Spanish extraction, did naturally incline to the house of their mother. Not long after his eldest son Philip Emanuel died in Spain, not without some suspicion of help, and the ministers of Spain in Italy did often minister unto him occasion of discontent, so that at the last he resolved to forsake those who had forsaken him, and betwixt Monsieur de Bethunes, who was then Ambassador for the French king at Rome, and the Count di Verrua, who was Ambassador there likewise for the Duke of Savoy, a Treaty of confederation and alliance was concluded betwixt Henry the fourth and Charles Emanuel, The death of the French king ensuing shortly after, the affairs of France did change face, and the reciprocal marriages contracted betwixt France and Spain, did exclude the Duke of Savoy from hope of having the eldest daughter of France, which had been promised to his son, or being assisted with the protection of that crown, yet would he never departed from the Treaty made with Henry the fourth, notwithstanding many unkindnesses received from France in the beginning of the reign of king Lovis, but still hoping beyond hope, & injurias ferendo & gratias agendo, he did in the end compass all his desires, with the death of the Marischal d' Ancre, all animosity against him was laid aside, and not long after he obtained the second daughter of France for the Prince of Piedmont, then was he and his house incorporated into France, and that union hath since been strengthened by the declaring of the Prince Cardinal Protector of the French nation in Rome, and the marrying of Prince Tomaso unto Madamoyselle de Soissons. Now he and all his sons are openly declared for the French party, and with Prince Philibert there did die all the affections of the house of Savoy towards Spain. This part of the world doth owe unto Charles Emanuel Duke of Savoy the discovery of one great secret, which is, that the Spaniards are resistible in Italy; for he did make his party good against them when not a sword in all Europe was drawn against them but his, and they employed against him all the power of their Monarchy. Marcellus was the first that did make the Romans see Annibalem potuisse vinci, and after he had once beaten him, he ever thrived. The Spaniards have sped little better in these parts, since the Duke of Savoy appeared against them; for whereas the ministers of Spain did govern all the Princes and states of Italy, with tale lament dellè; es means ter mortifica tal Principe, & di castigare tale Republicar now they do speak the language of Christians, and do recommend themselves unto those whom heretofore they did despise. If France do not abandon him, he will be a dangerous thorn in the side of the Spaniards; for he hath an undaunted courage, infinite experience, incredible vigilancy, an active spirit, an able body, beyond the proportion of his years, the love of all soldiers, the affections and hearts of his subjects, inventions to find money as fast as he doth dispense it liberally, and which doth crown his happiness, all his children of both sexes, besides their incomparable filial obedience, and singular virtues, have abilities to govern a far greater state than his: so that fearing no disorder in his own house, he may adventure safely his person abroad, where he is kliewise nobly seconded by two of his sons. His pretensions are great, unto Savona, the Marquisat of Final, and many other places, and he doth hope with this occasion to advantage his house in something, whereupon he hath without ceremony pulled off his mask, and being the first that hath entered into the list, he will be the last that shall retire.  
Although I have just cause to fear, that this disjointed discourse may seem tedious to your Majesty, yet must I needs in all humility crave leave to add one word of application, which together with all the rest I do humly submit unto the consideration of your Majesty's wisdom.  
In the time of Henry the eighth, the Italian Histories of that age, did with a constant stile give him the title of Protettore della liberta d' Italia, and yet it doth not appear that he did ever directly embrace the protection of this province, or interest himself in any of their quarrels, only the Venetians did reap notable benefit by his withdrawing himself out of the League of Cambray, and all the rest had their eyes upon him, because he was a contrepefo betwixt the two kings of France and Spain. As the affairs of the world do stand now, that title cannot but be derived unto your Majesty, if you will be pleased to accept it, for your Majesty is now the rising sun, whom all in these parts do worship, and without any cost or trouble your Majesty may take to yourself as much honour from the Protection of these princes and states, as may not be a burden unto you, and yet advantage your own affairs else where. Of Florence, Mantova, Modena, Parma, Genova, and Luca, your Majesty shall not need to take further notice then by a gracious answering such respects of observance, as perhaps some of them may show unto you, for as things do stand now, they are not sui juris, and at no time can any great use be made of them for your Majesty's service. With the Pope your Majesty doth hold no correspondence, and yet Rome is a place upon which your Majesty's servants had need to have a vigilant eye, for there are forged all designs pernicious to your Majesty's dominions, and all mysteries of state, which are afterwards acted in several stages of Christendom, are first attired in that attyring house. In the kingdom of Naples, and the Duchy of Milan, your Majesty's subjects shall always find entertainment conformable unto the correspondence, that shall pass betwixt your Majesty and the king of Spain. There do remain only the Venetians and the Duke of Savoy; these do properly retain their full liberty, and are able to do your Majesty service, and to offend any that shall be your enemy. By their means, and with the help of their Ministers and subjects, your Majesty may know whatsoever is done at Rome, and singular use may be made of their friendship, without any cost or trouble: for the Venetians will never desire more then to have their Ambassadors kindly used, and that the world may see, and take notice, that your Majesty doth respect them, and if upon fit occasions your Majesty will be pleased to favour the Duke of Savoy, and the Prince of Piedmont with some horses and dogs, they will be proud of such a token of your love, and be ready to deserve it. Your Majesty doth already inherit the affections and devotion both of the State of Venice, and of the house of Savoy: and when they shall cast themselves into your arms (as now they will do) if you be pleased only to embrace them, they are yours for ever.  
I will here conclude with my hearty prayers unto Almighty God, for the preservation of your Majesty's sacred person, and your daily increase in happiness and prosperity, and ever rest   
Your Majesty's most humble faithful and obedient subject and servant J. W.   

A DISCOURSE upon the proceed OF THE KING of SWEDEN  
Anno Dom. 1655.   

THAT PROCEED OF THE KING of SWEDEN  
IT is a received Position, that all great conquests have proceeded originally from the North, and terminated in the South, which point Mr. Bodin doth exemplify very well in his Method, and confirm with a passage of scripture, omne ex Aquilone malum. In stead of Conquests put Incursions & in stead of All, most, & then t'him axime may pass, but under correction that passage of scripture is misapplied, & not to be admitted in this sense. The King of Sweden, Gustavus, hath lately added a new example to confirm the old position, and if his proceed be understod as Incursions, and not as Conquests, they will have perfect conformity with the first generally received position.  
He did first pass the Baltic sea, with an army of no great consideration; and did hazard himself upon some disadvantages; for he could not land upon any ground, which he was not first to dispute with his sword, and was to encounter at his beginning with Imperialists, who having many years sucked the blood of poor Martyrs in that Country, would not render it without hazard of their own. Put into his balance the land troops which he had in Prussia and Livonia, I will confess, that the hope of joining with them (although they were far off) did encourage him and his naval army, to adventure upon an enterprise that was little better than desperate, for although he did well know, that the Imperialists were hated in those parts for the cruelties and extortions which they had committed a long time, and that he should be received of all good Patriots as a Protector of the public liberty, yet was he to break the ice of himself, there being none that did dare to appear in his favour, until he had no need of the favour of their appearing. It is more than eight years since the Imperialists have looked toward the North, presuming (and with good ground) that if they could be Masters of the Rivers and that sea, all Germany was to be at their devotion. None went further than Vallestein, who did serve his Master well, and lose nothing by the bargain. This was the only man, to speak humanly, that could have stopped the King of Sweden at the beginning; for the Emperor having given unto him the investiture of the Duchy of Mechelbourg, he was able of himself to have maintained his possession; but the Duke of Bavaria and the Catholic league having constrained the Emperor at the last Diet of Ratisbone to licence him, he retired to Prague, and Tilly having the general command under the Duke of Bavaria, did not care to fortify the maritime places of Pomerany and Mechelburg, because they did belong to Vallestein, whose ruin the Duke of Bavaria did seek, and if Tilly could have been sure that the king of Sweden would have contented himself with the reintegration of the Dukes of Mechelbourg, and Prince of Pomerany, and what with the Imperialists had gotten in the Duchy of Holstein, he would never have appeared as an enemy, there being nothing that the Duke of Bavaria, and he did desire more than the ruin of Vallestein, the discrediting the Emperor, and the exaltation of the Catholic league which might in due time authorise Bavaria to make a king of the Romans according to his own mind, and stamped at Munichen. Now if it be rightly examined, it will appear that the king of Sweden hath not spent so many months since his departure from Sweden, and his arrival in Francony and Suevia, as the Imperialists did spend years in conquering North-wards: and the facility of his progress is to be attributed unto the finger of God, and not unto the arm of flesh.  
This is taken pro concesso, that he hath assured himself of the Baltic sea for his retreat, that he hath enfranchised Pomeranie, Mechelbourg, and Holstein, that he hath cleared the best parts of the rivers of Elbe and Weser, that he hath put the Circle of lower Saxony in state of defence, secured the Marquis of Brandebourg, saved the Duke Elector of Saxony from utter perdition, seated himself of the Bishoprics of Bamberg, and Werteberg, encouraged the Landgraves of Hesse, and disposed the capital Imperial Towns of Francony and Swevia to accept him as Protector of the common liberty. This is very much to be done in so short a time, but it was not done sine sanguine & sudore; for when Tilly did see that the king had passed the Elbe, he did look that way, to stop his further advancing, and upon the confines of that river there did pass many rencounters which were very bloody, but the main battle was given near Lipswick, wherein God did bless the king, and our Laity did not favour Tilly. It cannot be denied but that he did the part of a brave General in that battle, and in all the former rencounters, & he hath now discovered an error in our ordinary Arithmetic, for that Hydra of his, hath still multiplied by substraction, and he is now as strong as ever he was. It is therefore necessary that we should examine well how things do stand at the present, foresee what is likely to ensue and deliberate quid agendum.  
In my conceit, things do stand yet in aequilibrio, for although much ground hath been gotten since the battle near Lypswich, and the hearts of million of men are turned to our favour in detestation of the cruelty which the Imperial Commissaries have used; yet if the chance of the war do turn in an other battle to our disadvantage, all that ground is lost, and those people will return tanquam canes ad vomitum, let us take it for granted, that the king of Sweden may go into the field with twenty thousand foot and five thousand horse, not counting his garrisons. He will be encountered by Tilly and Lorain with as many, if not more. If the Imperialists get the day, we may say good night, unless we will deceive ourselves. If the king prevail, it is not so, for he pretending nothing in Germany for himself, but intending the repatriation of divers exiled princes, and proscribed States, they will not be able to subsist severally of themselves without him, nor he be able to maintain his army, if he do give every man is due, and retain nothing unto himself, which may enable him to maintain both himself, and those whose protection he doth undertake. Herein I do find a great difficulty; for if he do live wholly upon the Catholic Princes, our civil disputes will terminate in a war of religion; and if he do live upon the Protestants, they will be as weary of him, as they are now of the Emperor: if he do exact from both, he will be in short time equally odious to both, who will see that they have changed Dominum non servitutem. But if the Emperor do lose the day, he will not be so far straightened: for the reverend respect due unto his Imperial Crown will always keep in devotion to his service, million of souls, who do detest the barbarous proceed of his Ministers. Secondly, the hereditary possessions of the house of Austria yield many men, and are of great extension, which none can take from them in good conscience. Lastly, the dominions of the king of Spain are very vast, and his Treasure of such consideration, that it is a ridiculous thing to think, that he can want money; for although he doth somtimee turn bankrupt, when it doth turn him to account; yet he doth always find money for his own occasions, and he that hath money, shall never want men. His Majesty hath sent the Marquis Hamilton with forces to the King of Sweden, those are counterballanced by the troops which the Duke of Lorain hath conducted in service of the Emperor. The states may perhaps assist the king of Sweden with considerable troops, when they have nothing to do; but it were better for him that they had something to do, because the Infanta will send as many to the Emperor as they can send to him, so that the balance doth go equal at present, but for the future, we have this disadvantage, that if we have this disadvantage, that if we be once beaten a Plate cousture, we shall be worse than before Prague, and if the Emperor lose the day, he will prove like Anteus, and rise from the ground with new strength, having a good pulse of his patrimony, in the conservation whereof many are interessed.  
The point most considerable is, that of religion, which we are like to fall upon, although we are to avoid it like a rock. If inevitable necessity do cast us upon that desperate coast, we must make account, that at this present in Germany there is much ground possessed by those who do declare themselves on our side; and thus much enjoyed by our enemies declared, as may be seen by a schedule apart, which shall be annexed into this discourse.  
If we do confine ourselves unto Germany only, we shall get little by the bargain, and if we do go out, we shall lose more. In Germany the Catholics have this great advantage, that they do in Spiritualibus, all acknowledge the Pope, and do agree among themselves in doctrine and discipline, whereas we have nothing but the confession of Ausbourg, which doth bind us with so lose a chain, that the names of Calvinists, Lutherans, Hussits are still in esse, and their, and their hatred one against the other, greater than of them all against the Catholics. If we do go out of upper Germany, there is Great Britain, Denmark, Sweden, and the states of the united Provinces, which do come short of France, Spain, and Italy, who will be against us when we shall come to that point, for although this Pope be contrary in affection to the house of Austria, yet he must contribute what may lie in his power, to the maintaining of the Catholics, and the like must be presumed both of the French King, and of the Venetians and Duke of Savoy, who do all wish an abasing of the Austriaci, but will never endure the increase of our religion in any place where they can hinder it. Spain and the other Princes of Italy may well be left out here, because it is too well known how they do incline, and if they could agree among themselves, perhaps the Duke of Nivers and Mantova might be their General, with his new order of Militia Christiana.  
I have heard some say, that we must trust to ourselves, and never expect any good from Catholics; the first I grant, but I deny the second. I will say those men are very wise that will demonstrate how Protestants throughout Europe subsist without support of Catholics; but if we can be without them, it is good, because they are to us like a lake of Anecie, which doth yield fish all the year, but in lent, as these may serve us at all times, but when we have most need of them. Here we may put into our scale, those of the religion in France, whose relics are something numerous, quantum ad individua, but they are light grains, and of no greater consideration since the integrity of their body hath been dissolved and broken, their fortifications demolished, and their leaders either seduced or exiled, so so that nothing can be expected from them, but the aid of some few voluntaries, whose zeal may transport them to offer their service unto such as do or may appear in this cause, and the prayers of the Churches, and good wishes of all true Protestants.  
There is yet another thing of greater consideration, which doth make for us, and that is the difference among Catholics for civil respects, which will in part help to counterpoise the misunderstandings of our religionaries in Germany, of which before I have spoken; though France hath not hitherto so visibly aspired to an universal Monarchy, as Spain is said to have done, (perhaps unjustly) it is apparent that their perpetual domestic brovilleries have hindered them from executing, and perhaps from projecting any such vast designs. But it is certain, that either envy, or emulation, or reciprocal jealousy have bred such an Antipathy betwixt those two nations, that though they are unwilling to break, yet they will always disagree, unless the crucifying of our Saviour do reconcile Herod and Pilate. This emulation of these two Crowns doth breed as great a distraction of the Catholic body in Europe, as may be equivalent to the disunion of our body in Germany, only herein they have the advantage of us, that their quarrels being purely civil are more accommodable of themselves, and that they have the Pope for Padre communé, unto whom they do willingly remit the arbitrement of their differences, when they are both so weary of making war that they do not care upon what conditions any peace be made pro interim; whereas our differences in matter of religion, are more irreconcilable; for although the parties may agree in the ground of a Confession, yet differences of opinions do prove conscientious in matter of divinity, and opiniastretes in those who do every one of them abound in their own sense, can never be reduced to temper, much less to regularity, especially there wanting a head on our side, who might call an universal Council, and by coactive power enforce conformity unto what should be decreed by the major part of Princes.  
I do not bring in the king of Poland into any part of our account, because although it be well known he doth stand affected, yet it is certain that he hath only voluntatem liberam & potestatem ligatam at this present, so that he can do no great hurt, nor good.  
There is an other circumstance which doth make against us, namely, that the present visible supportation of our cause doth lie upon the king of sweden person only, whom none but God can secure from Assassinates; and if he should miscarry, we should be to seek, whereas the Imperialists, and Catholics have more strings to their bow then one. But in case God do protect him from treason intended, and that he do give him farther victory, he cannot but live with some little anxiety, for fear lest the king of Denmark, retaining the memory of old quarrels, should come behind him, and that the Duke of Saxony should fall from him, and accommodate with the Emperor. against these I have no grains of civil considerations to oppose, but must hope that God who hath made choice of him to fight his battles, will always assist him from open and secret enemies, and either by him, or some other whom God himself will choose, will perfect the work that he hath begun.  
If this model of the present state of affairs be just, or doth come near unto rectitude, then in the same glass which doth show unto us the present face of things, we way foresee what is likely to be the event, as far as any thing may be conjectured de futuris contingentibus, the certainty of which is known only to God, All that can be said in this subject, must be reduced unto two heads; namely the accommodation of all differences, all amiable, or the continuance of the war; this being to be understood only of Germany, which Province at this present is the only Sedes belli, it is hard to say which of these two is the most likely to ensue in the first place; for although it may be granted, that peace is desired on both sides, yet the concluding thereof will prove a hard resultate; first in regard of the proximity of the armies, which can hardly be contained from enterschaking when they come to a reasonable distance; secondly in regard of the dispersion of the armies, which being divided in places far off, cannot easily agree upon a surseance of arms universal, if any such thing should be accorded in any one place: Thirdly, because neither the one party nor the other can long live en gros upon the Peasant, and therefore they must es loigne themselves, or dispute their bread with their swords. Fourthly we do not hear as yet of any Mediator, neither can we know where to find one that may be trusted of both parties.  
for although the French king would perhaps derive unto himself that honour, yet the animosity that he hath and doth still express against Spain and the house of Austria, will hinder him from being trusted by them, and the partiality that is discovered in him toward Bavaria and the Catholic League will make him suspected by us. This office would stand best with his Majesty, if he were not in a manner a party; for although in this conjuncture he might interpose very opportunely betwixt the king of Sweden and the Austriaci, yet Bavaria and the Catholic electors will hardly admit of him for what doth concern their interests. the one in regard of the electorat & Palatinate, the others in regard of difference in religion, The peace or truce in the low Countries, will prove a knotty piece of work, and without that the peace of Germany can hardly be concluded; Again there is an other dfficulty in regard of a new war likely to begin in Italy, which will cause the French to disturb the quiet of the Austriaci in Germany as much as they shall be able, and to traverse likewise any Treaty with the low countries: Lastly, the Duke of Lorain having now with Tilly the command of the Imperial or Catholic army, it is likely that they will both incline to war, the one to purchase the electorate of Brandebourg (which is promised unto him) and the other to have his revenge, for having been beaten.  
All that can be said on the other side, is that both parties may be so weary of the war, that they may rather desire Peace upon any conditions than hazard new Battles, which are journiaillers. Secondly that the question of the Palatinate whereupon the quarrel is grounded, may seem unto some of easy belief to approach near unto the point of accommodation, considering that Spain hath undertaken to dispose the Emperor on the one side (how real I know not) and that France doth seem willing to dispose Bavaria on the otherside, to accommodate with us upon any reasonable conditions.  
Lastly that the Abbate Scaglia having in his hands the negotiation of Peace or Truce with the States of the united Provinces, it may be presumed that he may effect as much as father Ney did heretofore.  
If these Landmarks be not mistaken, we may conclude that in probability & quoad hominem it is more likely that the war will continue then any Peace be agreed upon, and therefore taking that for granted, it will now be time for us to take into consideration quid agendum.  
But before I enter upon that discourse, I will in one word mrake quid non agendum, namely, that we be careful above all things not to break off any Treaties that are or may be set on foot for the accommodation of the Palatinate how captious and elusory so ever they may be, it being good to keep them up, as long as they do do not amuse us, and that we do not trust unto them but put in lucro any benefit that may unexpectedly come by them, and therefore it will be very necessary to dispose the king of Bohemia, not to stir as yet, nor to appear in person (as he doth seem to intent) for very good respects and considerations.  
Secondly, that to much passion be not expressed on our side in favour of the Queen mother, or Monsieur, un-until our present negotiations here be consummated (which will be very shortly fait ou failli) and that we may see more clearly how they will govern themselves towards the king of Sweden, and Bavaria, which will be a short work, considering that their assisting of Bavaria will be a secourse of Pisa, if it be not speedy, and that both the king of Sweden and the States do call upon them now very instantly for 5000. livers due unto each at the end of this month, and therefore these will prove good pietre di parangona, and make us see how their pulse doth beat.  
The territories and Cities of the Protestants and Papists in Germany, are at this present so intermingled, (most of the Princes of each Religion having in their possession some places of the contrary party) that it will be difficult to make an accurate Geomatrical division, and distinction of them.  
The chief places which the Protestants do at this time possess, and in which there are few or no places which are Catholic are, 

Swede. Livonia.  
Norwegia. Prussia    
The Marquisate of Brandenbourg, Upper and Lower Lusatia, (engaged to the Duke of Saxsony by the Emperor, and now regained by the Kings of Sweden)  
The Duchess of Pomeranta, and Mechlebourg.  
Denmark.— All Holsatia.  
The Circles of the upper and lower Saxony, in which are comprised the Electoral Duchy of Saxony: and other Principalities belonging to the house of Saxony,  
The Dutchies of Lunembourg and Brunswich, (although the lower circle be much mingled is rather to be accounted Catholic) East Fresland, sc. the County of Emden.  
Oldenbourg— Thuringues.  
The Marquisates appertaining to the house of Brandenbourg, sc. Beyreuch, Culembach, and Onolesbach, or Anspac.  
Part of the Circles of Franconia and Swabe, in which are comprised the Cities of Norimberg, Vlm, Nordigen, Francfort, and divers others though much intermingled.  
The whole Duchy of Wittenberg: wherein there are oney two or three Cities in which the Emperor and Bavaria have Garrisons.  
Part of the Marqvisate of Durlach.  
The Duchy desdeux Ponts.  
The Counties of Hannaco.  
Divers Counties upon the Confines of Alsatia, belonging to the house of Nassaw.  
The Wettaraw, wherein are divers Countries the most of which have lately cast off the yoke which Tilly had laid upon them.  
Hesse of Cassel. and Marbourg.  
Part of the Dutchies of Berke; Mark, juliers and cleves.  
The city of Strasbourg, and the territories adjoining,  
As for the Imperial towns, they are comprised in the Circle of Saxony, Franconea, and Swabe; of which I make no mention here, neither do I make mention of the Swisseses, which may also be esteemed separate from Germany.  
All the formentioned Provinces (without taking in Swede, Narwegia and Denmark, which are in a manner Peninsulaes') contain in latitude from the Baltic sea, as far as Franconia (where the King of Swed is at this present) fourscore Germane Leagus. In longitude they contain from East Freesland to the Confines of Poland, running along by Prussia and Livonia, a hundreth and five and thirty leagues; of which fifteen make a degree.  

The Principal Rivers are,  
Ems which dischargeth into the Ocean at Emden.  
The Weser that dischargeth itself into the sea at Bremen.  
The Ell which dischargeth at Hambourg.  
The Rehein which passeth into the Ocean through the united Provinces of the Low Countries.  
The Trave which enters into the Baltic sea at Lubeck.  
The Oderspree, and other Rivers which enter into the Baltic sea at Starlsund.  
The Vistule which enters into the Baltic sea at Dansk.   

The chief Provinces which the Catholics have are,  
The kingdom of Bohemia  

Austria.  
Siletia.   
The kingdom of Hungaria.  
Carinthia, Croatia, and other Provinces the Hereditary possessions of the house of Austria.  

Stiria  
Tirol  
Carniola.  
Moravia.   
Archbishopric of Saltsbourg.  
Upper and Lower Elsace.  
Bavaria.  
Upper and Lower Palatinate.  
The Bishopric of Spires and Worms.  
Archbishopric of Treves.  
Archbishopric of Colen.  
Archbishopric of Ments.  
Divers Bishoprics and other places, which as also the Bishoprics and Archbishoprics above mentioned are contained in the Circles of Franconia, Westfal a, and of the Rhein.  
These kingdoms and provinces, contain in Latitude a hundreth and twenty Germane Leagues, and in Longitude (according to the Largest account) a hundred and forty.   
FINIS.