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July 4.
Senato,
Secreta.
Dispacci,
Inghilterra.
Venetian
Archives. |
504. Anzolo Correr, Venetian Ambassador in England, to
the Doge and Senate.
After I had waited five whole weeks for letters from Italy
the courier from Antwerp, arriving with his letters in a Dunkirk
boat was robbed by a French one a short distance from these
shores, (fn. 1) so this week again I have no news of affairs in Italy.
This seizure of letters has upset everyone, and to such an
extent in Court that they protest vociferously against such
procedure on the part of the French and all with one voice
endeavour to demonstrate to the king that if he does not make
up his mind to make that passage safe by his ships, trade
will very soon be interrupted and everything thrown into confusion
His Majesty resents the incident warmly and seems
quite willing to apply the remedy, but as he has not so far
given any orders the merchants set themselves to incite him by
appearing before him with a petition to find some way of preventing
such mishaps, which hinder their trade, for which it
is necessary above all things to assure the safety of the letters.
The French ambassadors stirred by such rumours, assert that
the letters cannot have been stopped by definite orders, as is
stated here, and hold out hopes that they will easily get them
recovered. They say that it ought not to appear strange that
what is found on an enemy boat should be detained and taken,
because the Dunkirkers have done the same with theirs. They
advise sending all the couriers with letters on English barques
in the future. This would certainly be the safest course, but
while they insist here on the point that letters for England
which come from a neutral place ought not to be seized by
any one, no measures will be taken, and so for many weeks
we shall have to remain without the most important news.
The reports of the defeat of the troops of the Cardinal Infant
and of his retirement to Malines are persistent. But as there
is no confirmation of this from Antwerp, the Spaniards maintain
that the news is false. They report that the Cardinal has received
great reinforcements from Germany, and put on a bolder
face than ever. But those who know their weakness as much
as they regret it, seem decidedly cast down, because they recognise
that if the news is not absolutely true it may not be long
before it is confirmed, so that all their arts to try and supply
some assistance from here, with an almost impossible assiduity,
amount to a propaganda against the opinions of the French,
in pointing out that their power is already elevated too high,
and the anxieties which they should reasonably occasion to this
kingdom are so great, all uttered so clearly under an appearance
of zeal for the service of the crown, that if they had to do
with a disposition less inclined to quiet than that of his Majesty,
they would certainly be strong enough to induce him to take
more violent measures (ma quelli che tanto conoscono le debolezze
loro quanto le compatiscono, bene si mostrano sbigottiti,
mentre prevedono che se non sono totalmente vere le novelle
poco posso tardar a restar verificate almeno, in modo che tutto
le loro arti a tentare qui qualche assistenza da questa parte
oltre il possibile assiduamente rivolgono li disseminationi contro
i pensieri de' Francesi, le rimostranze della loro potenza di gia
troppo altamente elevata, le gelosie che con ragione devono
apportare a questi Regni sono tanti, e cosi chiaramente sotto
apparenza di zelo del servitio della Corona proferiti che quando
incontrassero in animo meno di quello della Maestà Sua alla
quiete inclinato haverebbero forza al sicuro di condurlo ai piu
violenti risolutioni).
The one who came to pay his respects to the king in the
name of the Cardinal Infant has not neglected to make before
his Majesty and the secretaries of state in particular a very
complete representation of the dangerous condition into which
matters are drifting in Flanders. He has pointed out that it is
of the utmost importance to this crown that they should not
make further progress in the occupation of those provinces.
That on the ground of reputation, no less than in the interest of
trade and of security his Majesty is called upon to prevent any
attempt of the French by way of the sea, whose fleet joined
with that of the Dutch, is now more powerful than ever at sea,
without any impediment, and expects to do great things upon
the coast of Flanders, and can certainly do a great deal. The
king replied in substance that his goodwill towards the safety
of the princes, his friends and neighbours could not be better ;
that for this very purpose of securing for all alike a safe passage
in these waters he was maintaining at considerable expense
a numerous fleet, and that for the same purpose he had decided
to reinforce it with several ships, as would be seen before
long. Since this first meeting, according to my information,
the Spanish minister has not been able to get any thing but
absolutely general phrases. He returned on the following day
to take leave of his Majesty and having been honoured by the
king with a present of some value, he is to set out this morning
on his journey back to his prince.
The ambassadors, on the other hand, having received the last
declaration of the Most Christian, confirmed by the parliament,
with regard to his resolutions against the Court of Spain, have
gone to inform his Majesty. They demonstrated vigorously the
reasons and the just causes which have compelled the king,
their master, to declare himself against the Spaniards and to
take the present steps, after putting up for so long with their
underhand intrigues and machinations. They especially exerted
themselves to induce his Majesty to believe that the aims of
the Most Christian in the present war were not directed as
might be seen from the manifesto itself, for the purpose of
making any conquests for himself, but only to restore the liberty
of his ancient allies, who very properly stimulated him to take
this course and to put an end, once and for all, if possible,
to the effusion of so much blood in the Netherlands and to
secure for France that peace and tranquillity which it is the duty
of a just prince and loving father to procure for his subjects.
Here they begged his Majesty not to regard with suspicion
the actions of the Most Christian because of vain rumours
spread abroad by prejudiced and slanderous tongues, since he
would show by his deeds and at all times that he was more
united with this crown in purpose, in interest and in affection
than with any other prince of Christendom soever. The communication
seemed to please his Majesty greatly. He asked
the ambassadors to convey his most cordial thanks to the king,
their master, in his name ; he knew full well the upright intentions
of his Majesty and from his heart wished him all
success and prosperity.
From such a reception the ambassadors are gathering courage,
and augur better things from his Majesty's inclinations.
It seems enough to them to have found him inclined to thoughts
of peace and very averse from committing himself to anything
that involved expense. Thus if it proves possible to arrange
things so that the fleets shall not meet, as the French seem
anxious to procure, the state of affairs will be quite satisfactory.
For the rest so far as one can see at present, the suspicions they
had conceived of the operations have much diminished, though
it will never be possible for the French to prevent the Spaniards
from drawing some profit covertly from their advantages here,
because their professed supporters are too friendly and interested.
Nevertheless they are proceeding much more slowly with the
armament of the remainder of the troops which they obtained
permission to levy some weeks ago since the Ambassador Seneterre
intimated to the king that he was aware of it, indeed
it is believed that they may be prevented from completing the
levy for this reason.
His Majesty has decided to go on his progress after all, and
it will begin soon after the middle of this month. (fn. 2) Owing to
her condition, which has caused her much discomfort at this
early stage, the queen has decided to pass the rest of the
summer quietly at the houses of Greenwich and Westminster.
The king's journey will not be a very long one and he will
not go too far away from the sea coast, so that he will always
be able to receive news of what happens to the fleet with
ease. Before setting out he will return to this city and will
stay here two days at least. During that time I will go and
wish him a pleasant journey according to the custom.
I have received this week the state despatches of the 19th
May. From these I perceive that the letters which should have
arrived this week have been plundered.
London, the 4th July, 1635.
[Italian ; the part in italics deciphered.] |
July 7.
Senato,
Secreta.
Deliberazioni.
Corti.
Venetian
Archives. |
505. To the Ambassador in England.
We have received your letters of the 1st and 6th ult. The
more the French and Spaniards renew their efforts at that Court
and seek to gain the advantage the one over the other, and
the stronger the indications that the king there is leaning to
the Spanish side, the more necessary are your efforts to observe,
enquire and discover essentials, not only in their actions but
in their resolutions also.
That 300 ducats be paid by the Camerlenghi di Commun to the
representatives of Angelo Correr, ambassador in England, for his
expenses upon couriers and the carriage of letters.
Ayes, 117. Noes, 1. Neutral, 1.
[Italian.] |
July 10.
Senato,
Secreta.
Deliberazioni.
Corti.
Venetian
Archives. |
506. To the Proveditore of Cephalonia.
Approval of his decision to put a stop to the selection of ambassadors
by the syndics there to go to England to treat about
currants. The question can only be dealt with in conjunction
with the people of Zante and demands much consideration. It
is undesirable that the community should send any one in a
public capacity either to England or elsewhere. To explain this
to the syndics and tell them that if they have any representations
to make they should do it in writing, when the matter will
receive the most careful consideration.
Ayes, 90. Noes, 0. Neutral, 4.
[Italian.] |
July 11.
Senato,
Secreta.
Dispacci,
Inghilterra.
Venetian
Archives. |
507. Anzolo Correr, Venetian Ambassador in England, to
the Doge and Senate.
Last Friday after midnight a courier arrived from France in a
few hours with letters for the ambassadors from the king
and a despatch from the Cardinal. This stated that a few
days ago a Dutch ship fell in with the English fleet. The
captain had been compelled to go on board the flagship of
General Linze in person, and besides questioning him about his
own voyage the general tried to find out from him where the
French fleet was at that moment. The captain told him that
he had no information because he was a merchant and attended
to his own affairs, and he only troubled himself about the fleets
of others when it was to his personal interest to do so. With
this the general had dismissed him, repeating that if he should
happen to fall in with the French fleet, he had his orders to
let him know, since he, the general, had instructions to meet it
and make it lower its flag and these orders he meant to carry
out. (fn. 3)
In view of this high handed manner of acting and speaking
the ambassadors found instructions in the same despatch to
report the incident to the king himself and to ask him if he
had really issued such instructions to his admiral, intimating
to him that such incidents could not fail to render his Most
Christian Majesty highly suspicious. That king therefore desired
to know the truth, since he could not persuade himself
that the general had instructions to proceed to hostile acts
without preceding cause. Without losing a moment the ambassadors
did as they were instructed on the following morning.
After hearing what they had to say, the king assured them
positively that he knew nothing of the incident and that the
Earl of Linge's orders contained nothing in excess of what
all other English admirals had always had, and they might
rest assured that the despatch of the present fleet would effect
no alteration. The ambassadors replied, We are persuaded of
this, but as we cannot know what the commissions of your
Majesty's past generals contained, so it is impossible for us
to know what the present ones contain unless you tell us.
The king seemed impatient and told them again that the
instructions were as stated and that the kings of France, had
never taken exception to the commissions to his generals, and
so he saw no reason for any further declaration. They insisted
here that if his Majesty refused to express himself further,
the king their master would be compelled to believe the words
uttered by the general. If these exceeded his orders and his
Majesty's wishes they begged him to state his sentiments more
openly even if the instructions only contained some quite small
point which might possibly interrupt and disturb the good relations
which now exist between the two crowns, since his
Most Christian Majesty was determined to do everything possible
within reason to uproot entirely all occasions for offence.
The king would not add anything further. Scarcely allowing
them to make the above remark, he told them that if they wanted
to say anything more on the subject he referred them to the
Secretary Cuch, when every opportunity would be afforded to
give them satisfaction, and so he dismissed them.
To the Secretary Cuch accordingly the ambassadors betook
themselves without a moment's delay, very ill pleased with the
king's reply. After repeating to the secretary the particulars
recorded above, they were unable, in spite of repeated efforts
on their part, to get anything out of him except an answer corresponding
in every respect to that of the king. From this
reserved and curt manner of speaking they took occasion to
open out at greater length in stating their case to the secretary.
Accordingly they began by telling him that they found no
reason sufficient to make them understand why the King of
Great Britain should claim priority in these waters over other
nations and France in particular, since the English themselves
could not advance any, and they were forced to conclude that
this was merely a way of forcing a quarrel and rupture with
France. In all the treaties of peace that had ever been made
between the two crowns, ancient or modern, no mention had
ever been made of this point of the sovereignty of the sea, so
it was clear that the English claims had only been raised so
high with this object. As the matter was so important in
itself. Being resolved to avoid all occasions for dispute, and
to preserve the rights belonging to both crowns, without a
stain on their reputation, since they were determined to examine
the affair thoroughly in France without passion, they were
commanded to propose the following conditions. Here Senneterre
took a paper in his hand, which he had prepared to read
to the king if he liad found him in a better frame of mind.
But before he began to make known its contents the secretary
wished to reply to them.
He spoke to the following effect : that the representations
which they had just made to him in the name of the Most
Christian could not be considered here as anything but unusual
and most extraordinary. Of all the fleets that had sailed from
this kingdom in times past the French had never before shown
so much suspicion or any desire to have any change made in
things which for long centuries had always maintained the
same unchangeable form. Putting aside other and more ancient
examples he would cite one only for their satisfaction when
in the days of Queen Elizabeth very numerous fleets sailed from
this kingdom on more than one occasion, with precisely the
same commissions as the present general holds, which were
published everywhere, and were not concealed even from the
French, yet they did not make the slightest sign of being dissatisfied
with them or ask for any alteration, such as they
seem, so anxious to get at the present time.
To this the ambassadors rejoined that if they had preserved
any remembrance of the announcements made in the time of
Queen Elizabeth the assurance that these were in conformity
would suffice for them, but as no memory of them remained
in France they were forced to make their present instances.
They did not see why they should object here as to something
novel to the declaration they asked for, if it was merely because
it referred to something that they themselves had assented to
in times past with respect to the instance cited that the Most
Christian had raised no objection in the time of Queen Elizabeth
they could only say that the instructions of that time were not
likely to contain anything to which they might object. This
might be so in the case of the present instructions, when they
knew of the contents, and in that case they would rest perfectly
satisfied and content. But they could not refrain from pointing
out that things at that time were totally different from what
they are now, because the Most Christian was not then armed
at sea, while the fleet of the queen had no other object than
to bring strength and assistance to the King of France against
his enemies. So it would have been very stringe for the beneficiary
to have quarrelled with his own benefactor. If his
Majesty should think fit to put matters on the same basis as
they were then, the king their master would be well pleased
and asked nothing better, and if his Majesty would decide to
send his fleet directly against the enemies of the Crown of
France, as Queen Elizabeth openly did in those days, the Most
Christian would probably withdraw his own fleet of his own
accord, to avoid dispute. But as he was under the necessity
of using his own arms, and as in directing them against his
enemies he could not avoid encountering that fleet, they did
not understand why their request should cause so much offence,
since it was clear of itself that the sole object was to avoid
scandals and to establish between the two crowns a true union
and perfect friendship. With this just and desirable aim they
proposed the following articles in the name of the Most Christian,
to wit that when the ships of France and England met near
the coasts of England or of other lands subject to his Brittanic
Majesty, the French should salute first and lower their flags,
but if they met near the French coasts, the English should salute
first and lower their flag ; if they met in the middle of the
sea they should exchange salutes mutually and send the customary
signs of friendship, both keeping their flags unchanged,
or that a small fleet should be obliged to humble itself to a
larger one in the manner indicated above.
They said that the Most Christian thought these reasonable
and equitable proposals would suffice to remove every shadow
of doubt and to effect a compromise that would be mutually
satisfactory. He suggested them with this end in view in the
assurance that the king here would not disapprove. If however,
he did not find them perfectly acceptable, the Most Christian
would be obliged if he would suggest others, which he would
be glad to consider and readily accept if they are devised to
attain the same end, with equal treatment and station.
The secretary took note of the articles and said he would
show them to the king and tell them his reply later, but personally
he did not believe that his Majesty would make any alteration,
because he could not make the slightest change without
considerable prejudice to himself.
From this manner of speaking the ambassadors understood
that the matter could not be brought to a happy conclusion without
much time and difficulty. Indeed they foresee that if the
French fleet does not mean to be absolutely useless they will
have to pass very near to the English and will not be able
to avoid violent disturbances as a consequence, and in this way
the two crowns will become enemies the one to the other, with
the honour and advantage of having brought their machinations
to the end which they desired. However the ambassadors are
labouring to find some temperate compromise and press earnestly
for an answer. But although this has been promised them, in
words, it is actually being delayed. This is all that has happened
in the matter from its origin up to the present moment.
London, the 11th July, 1635.
[Italian ; the part in italics deciphered.] |
508. Anzolo Correr, Venetian Ambassador in England, to
the Doge and Senate.
The individual More, who was sent to visit the Princess
Palatine, because of the bad news about her health, returned
from the Hague last week, escorted by the same royal ship
which was assigned to him for his voyage out. (fn. 4) He reports
that after a long bout of fever, from which she suffered for
the space of some months, the princess may now be said to
have practically recovered her usual excellent health. He brought
letters from her to the king and queen expressing her thanks
and affection. Besides these private ones it is said that she has
written to the king representing to him, as she has so often
done, the great peril to which the states of the Palatinate
are manifestly exposed and exhorting him to make up his mind
to take suitable measures to support affairs there. It is also
stated that More said something orally to his Majesty with regard
to the question of the marriage of his niece to the King
of Poland which they still believe here to be nearly settled,
although the actual facts show little sign of it.
Some days ago the Agent of his Majesty with the Swiss sent
word that he had conferred with the Duke of Lorraine at
Neoburgh, in accordance with the arrangement made. He reports
ports the result in a very long letter. He writes rather like a
servant of the duke than as a minister of his Majesty, putting
forward his interests, commiserating without end the present
condition of that prince, criticising in the sharpest manner as
manifestly unjust the behaviour of the Most Christian towards
him and pleading for some assistance in deeds, and if this is
accorded bearing witness to his good will and friendly disposition.
At the end he speaks of the offer made by the duke
to use his influence with Cæsar and the Spaniards in favour
of the restitution of the Palatinate if his Majesty here will agree
to a money payment and to send troops in favour of the Austrian
party against the French. Such is the substance of the Resident's
letters. All who have considered them without prejudice
have perceived very clearly that they are a tissue of Spanish
tricks and inventions devised to induce the king here, under the
most specious pretexts, to interest himself directly in their
affairs against the French. Because while they will have their
hands full to protect their dominions and defend themselves
from all the misfortunes which threaten them imminently from
numerous directions, there is little likelihood of their being able
to spare time for the recovery of what pertains to the Prince
Palatine from the hands of those who are in possession.
His Majesty has turned these particulars over in his mind more
than any one else and recognising these proposals as the same
which the Spaniards have caused to be put before him on other
occasions, although not so openly, he shows himself sticklish
on the point of the electoral vote, the restoration of which is
only promised after the death of Bavaria. He says that as
the duke has taken another wife. (fn. 5) although he is of a very
advanced age, it cannot be certain that he will not have children,
and in that case the whole aspect of affairs would be altered,
even if there were obligations and promises to the contrary.
Accordingly the king does not seem to attach any importance
to such overtures and indeed he appears altogether indisposed
to listen to them. On the other hand those who have made it
their business to support the Spanish party do not neglect to
point out to him, with great audacity, that if the advantageous
proposals that are now offered are not accepted, it may so
happen that things will so turn out that whoever may be in
possession of the Palatine's dominions at the end of the war,
it may not be an easy matter to recover them for him, so
that his Majesty's nephew runs the risk of being excluded for
ever from them. With such considerations they mingle their
everlasting song that it is necessary to repress the power of
France, now that it is in the act of greater ascendancy, because
if once they succeed in establishing their power in the way
they propose the alarms and troubles which they will occasion
to this crown will perhaps be no light matter.
In the midst of these transactions Curtius who on other occasions
has conducted the affairs of the Administrator Palatine
here, has arrived in Court with letters from that prince. Although
I have not been able to discover what they contain
I have learned this much that they have immediately put all
these other negotiations in suspense. I hope to have an opportunity
of seeing Curtius, perhaps to-morrow, and if I learn
any definite particulars from him I will report them.
Viscount Schidemore has worked so hard for the modification
of his instructions that he has at last succeeded in getting
them consigned to him without any mention of Devich. This
being done his wife has been to take leave of the queen and
he will do the same with the king before his Majesty starts on
his progress, and that done will very speedily set out to take up
his appointment.
His Majesty came to this city yesterday on purpose to take
part in the christening of the eldest son of the Earl of Southampton.
The ceremony was performed in the earl's house with the
most sumptuous pomp. (fn. 6) The ambassadors of France and I
were invited. When I kissed his Majesty's hands he asked me
with great curiosity how matters were going in Italy just now
and if it were true that the French had made some progress in
the state of Milan. He said he had heard many rumours on the
subject, but he did not credit any, because they did not come
from good quarters, and he had heard nothing from his ambassador
there for two months. I told him that I also had been
two months without letters from those parts so that I could
not tell him anything authentic. The king said he was very
curious to know, and I promised that if any news of importance
reached me I would not fail to let him know. He said he
would be much obliged, and our conversation went no further.
The letters which were stopped by the French at sea two
weeks ago have been fully restored, but in my despatch I have
found nothing but letters from the Hague.
London, the 11th July, 1635.
[Italian ; the part in italics deciphered.] |
July 13.
Senato,
Secreta.
Dispacci,
Francia.
Venetian
Archives. |
509. Alvise Contarini, Venetian Ambassador in France, to
the Doge and Senate.
A person has reached the Bishop of Oleron with news that the
English fleet has landed in the Island of Oleron. The bishop immediately
went to inform the Cardinal at Rueil. It is not known
if the English have done this to make some diversion and acts
of hostility or for some necessity. The Residents say they
cannot have gone there as enemies and they do not credit the
news, as they think it impossible for the fleet to have gone so
far in so few days. Confirmation is awaited, but in any case
they confide in a fort which is in that Island being supplied for
six months.
Paris, the 13th July, 1635.
[Italian.] |
July 14.
Senato,
Mar.
Venetian
Archives. |
510. That the English Ambassador be permitted as a favour
to export ten cases of crystal glass and nine of pictures, which
he is sending to England for the service of his Majesty and
of the Earl of Arundel, free of all duty, which would amount
to about 40 ducats.
Ayes, 75. Noes, 0. Neutral, 2.
The vote requires five sixths :
On the 14th July in the Collegio :
Ayes, 19. Noes, 0. Neutral, 0.
[Italian.] |
July 17.
Senato,
Secreta.
Dispacci.
Francia.
Venetian
Archives. |
511. Alvise Contarini, Venetian Ambassador in France, to
the Doge and Senate.
The news of the descent of the English in the island of Oleron,
proved false. It is thought that the reports arose from the
arrival of several English and Dutch ships there to lade salt.
The ambassador of that king is expected very soon, which makes
it likely that there is nothing more to be feared from that
quarter.
Paris, the 17th July, 1635.
[Italian.] |
July 18.
Senato,
Secreta.
Dispacci,
Inghilterra.
Venetian
Archives. |
512. Anzolo Correr, Venetian Ambassador in England, to
the Doge and Senate.
The French ambassadors have shown great diligence all these
last days to obtain some answer to what they proposed with
respect to a decision as to the way the naval forces should
behave to each other in case they happened to meet. They have
again remonstrated with the king and the Secretary Coke, without
obtaining any more open reply. But on another occasion
some of the ministers said that they could not bring themselves
to believe that his Majesty, without an utter loss of reputation
could be induced to yield the tiniest part of the sovereignty he
claimed over these waters, as indivisible from his crown ; it
would be monstrous and absurd to give up this point, on which
he would never yield, even when unarmed, now that he has
armed expressly and declaredly to preserve it.
The ambassadors replied that such claims could only be upheld
when they were just and reasonable. In this instance they
had not been shown the reasons on which the claims were
based. The Most Christian might equally well make similar
claims, and so they could treat on equal terms and occasions for
dispute and strife would be avoided. They were told that a
strong point for England was ancient custom. Their sovereignty
had never been disputed. The ambassadors would not discuss
this but contended that the precedent could not prejudice them
since it was a clearly established practice at sea for the weaker
party to humble himself to the stronger, and England had enjoyed
this privilege in the past from being always the stronger.
They did not wish in any wise to alter the ancient custom which
called for submission from the weaker party. The ministers
would not discuss this as it would mean proceeding from conversation
to negotiation, and so the meeting broke up.
The Ambassador Poygni gave me all these particulars this
morning. He did not think that the matter could be easily
adjusted, as here they insist upon upholding their pretensions
unabated, and the Most Christian seems equally determined not
to submit to a servile yoke. I asked him if he knew of any previous
occasion when these two crowns had equal forces at
sea. He said there was no memory of such a thing and he
did not think the case had ever arisen, but if they had any
precedent here, although it might be prejudicial to France, the
Most Christian would not permit it to go on. So it is clear
that these important affairs tend more and more to a crisis.
Before the negotiations are concluded the French fleet will
have to proceed to the defence of the coasts of Normandy, where
the losses inflicted by the Dunkirkers are reported to be ever
greater, and thus, as an encounter can no longer be avoided,
they are in momentary expectation here of the news of some
unfortunate incident.
With matters touching the fleet in this state, it was proposed
again in the royal Council to decide and carry out at the same
time the despatch of the 20,000 men for the protection of the
seaports, as had already been arranged, so my informant told
me, who is in a position to know. He added that the discussions
on the subject were very long, with divided opinions.
Some were of opinion that under the circumstances such a
step was a matter of necessity, arguing that as the fleet might
easily come into conflict with the French ships, and as the
results of battles were always subject to the chances of fortune,
it was not possible to leave the ports destitute of defence.
Others who have shown a deeper acquaintance with the whole
matter, pointed out very correctly that for requirements of
that character an order to the people of the country would
suffice, so that they should be prepared for their own defence on
any emergency, without putting the crown to the burden of so
much expense. If they decided to raise these troops and oblige
the country to maintain them, as had been discussed before, they
considered that such a step would be exceedingly perilous in
the present state of affairs, because the whole people ardently
desired to see parliament summoned, and if by the means proposed
it was called upon to bear arms, that might easily give
the impulse to some troublesome rising, with manifest danger
of seeing it greatly extended in a short time, with scant hope
of being able to extinguish it very easily. These considerations
made a great impression on the Council, and the more they
thought about it the more they were impressed with the consequences,
in sort that as the matter is left undecided on this
subject, it is expected that they will let it drop altogether for
the moment (perche alcuni essendo di parer che tal risolutione
in simile congiontura fosse consigliata della necessita portorono
per ragione che come potendo facilmente Varmata marittima con
le navi di Francia a cimento d' armi devenir per ogni accidente
che occorrere potesse i fini delle battaglie sempre alla dispositione
della fortuna, non si possa i porti del mare lasciar
sprovedute di difesa. Altri che nel piu recondito dell' affare hanno
mostrato di penetrar, rimostrorono fondatamente per rispetto
di tal natura basta un buon ordine ai genti del Paese per che
alla propria difesa in ogni occasione si trovino allestite, senza
mettere la corona in barazo di tanta spesa e che volendosi fare
provedere dei genti al Paese sono obligationi di mantener li com
era, altre volti caduto in consulta stimavano il partito nello stato
presente delle cose granaissimamente pericoloso perche il popolo
universalmente ardente di desiderio di vedere convocato un parlamento,
quando per tal mezzo venisse necessitato a portar
Varmi potrebbe facilmente con li medesimi dare il moto a
qualsivoglia sollevatione con pericolo evidente di vederla in breve
grandemente dilatata e con poca speranza di poterla cosi facilmente
sopir. Queste considerationi grandemente negli animi del
Consiglio valsero per penetrar e quanto piu vi applicarono la
riflessione tanto le trovano di consequenza maggiore, in modo
che si come il negotio resto in quel punto sospeso, cosi si crede
si rilasciera per hora afatto la propositione cadere).
The letters of the Administrator brought by Curtius to his
Majesty contain requests for assistance for the requirements of
the Palatinate, in which he seriously represents the affairs of
the king's nephew as becoming more perilous than ever. That
France has not supplied him with the assistance that met the
need, so that if he receives no other support he will inevitably
fall very soon into a condition worse than the first. But as
for some time past the interests of that prince appear to find
more compassion and good will at this Court than effective
action for his relief, so although they have heard this news
with bitter regret, and even more over the particulars contained
in the letters from France about the capture of Spires by the
Imperialists, and the peril of Mainz, Worms and Hachen from
the same, yet they do not devote their attention to it, so that
they may keep far from them the dangers and ruin of others,
and at present the only thing of which they seem to think is
the fleet, and the question of the progress which the French
may make in the Netherlands, about whom their jealousy and
apprehension steadily increase, possibly more than there is occasion
for. But no news has come this week, as the courier from
Antwerp has not yet arrived.
They are much impressed at Court and make various comments
on the news of the entry of the Austrians into the Valtelline
through the Tyrol (fn. 7) and on the renewed rising in Guienne. The
majority having no good will towards the interests of the Most
Christian, seem to believe that the behaviour of Rohan's troops
has so embittered the people of those parts that they would
rather incur any risks than see themselves in the hands of the
French. If this were so, the ill treatment which they are ex-experiencing
at the outset from the imperialists will very soon
make them change their minds. On the second point they say
roundly that other provinces also will follow the example of
Bordeaux and of the rest of Guienne, since the people of France
can no longer support the burden of so many and repeated
taxes. By this way of talking they relieve the violence of their
feelings which are certainly in an extreme state of exasperation
against the French everywhere. But unless some incident occurs
at sea the poison will do no more harm than intensify the
affliction and mortification of those who utter such things.
Only this week, a month after he kissed the king's hands, has
the Resident of Savoy called upon the French ambassadors.
He apologised for the delay on the ground of the disorder in
which the affairs of his house still are. But as he has always
showed himself freely at Court and in every other public place,
the ambassadors are not altogether pleased about his tardiness.
With regard to the declarations to be made by his master, he
says the exact opposite to what the French ambassadors gave
out. He states openly that the duke means to remain neutral,
when they have asserted otherwise.
A rather troublesome incident occurred the day before yesterday
in the house of the Ambassador Senneterre. An English
priest, accused of going to the houses of Catholics and saying
mass every day by persons who had seen him celebrate, was
immediately arrested on being recognised. When he was being
taken before the judges they happened to pass near the said
ambassador's house. The priest seized the opportunity to escape
and sped to that house for refuge. But those who had him in
charge, being as daring as he was determined, followed him
right into the house and took him away by force, while the
ambassador's household, who were dining, either did not hear or
did not trouble about the disturbance. Senneterre declares that
his king's reputation is seriously injured by such violence, and
has demanded reparation. Although they have promised this
more promptly than they have performed hitherto, there is no
doubt but he will obtain the release of the priest, and the punishment
of the others as well, if he wishes.
Six despatches have just reached me all together, by the Antwerp
courier, after I had been eight weeks without. Among
them are those of the Senate of the 11th of May and the 1st,
8th and 15th June.
London, the 18th July, 1635.
[Italian ; the part in italics deciphered.] |
July 26.
Senato,
Secreta.
Dispacci,
Haya.
Venetian
Archives. |
513. Francesco Michiel, Venetian Ambassador at the Hague,
to the Doge and Senate.
The Princess Palatine has sent to her brother the King of
England the articles of the adjustment with Saxony, (fn. 8) begging
him to consider the wretched state of her house. All depends
upon the reply. If it is favourable and adequate to the need,
she says it will mean life, but if not, death, as she has become
hateful to herself, recognising that she is only a shadow of her
past greatness and felicity (fatta di gia odiosa a se stessa
conoscendo non esser che un ritratto spirante della sua passata
grandezza e felicita).
The Hague, the 26th July, 1635.
[Italian.] |
July 27.
Senato,
Secreta.
Dispacci,
Inghilterra.
Venetian
Archives |
514. Anzolo Correr, Venetian Ambassador in England, to
the Doge and Senate.
I went to see the king last Sunday at Theobalds. His Majesty
explained to me that he had fitted out the fleet, as mentioned by
Fielding to the Signory, with the object of securing to all indifferently
safe transit through these waters and preserve the
respect due to himself. He hoped that all would accept this
and that it would not arouse jealousy in any one, especially as
he was sure that the effects of his good intentions would become
more and more clear.
The king was at Theobalds intending to start on a progress.
On the following day he came to this city with the queen. They
only stayed to dine and went on to Oatlands. The queen will
stay there some weeks and his Majesty, after next Sunday,
will continue the journey he has begun. This absence of the
Court will not only interrupt the course of the more important
affairs but will make it more difficult to obtain authentic news.
I have been informed in the strictest confidence that at a long
conference with the new Resident of Savoy the king told him
that he would like to see the differences between the most serene
republic and the duke ended, and that he would willingly interpose
for that purpose. The Resident said that he thought such
interposition would certainly be successful. His master was
favourably disposed and desired good relations with all the Italian
powers. The king had spoken more fully on the subject on
another occasion and said that he would speak to me. The king
was most disposed to undertake this interposition for the welfare
of Italy. If the matter was kept in suspense it was due to
the French, who had not acted sincerely, perhaps because they
aspired to be the arbiters of Italy.
I have been trying to get further information about this. I
find that the conversation between the resident and his Majesty
was substantially as above, but the former reported it too favourably
for himself, as it was he and not the king who started the
subject and indeed practically asked him to intervene. At my
audience of the king on Monday he never said a word on the
subject, and so I think, if he means to broach it, he will do
so before he returns to this city. In the mean time I beg your
Excellencies to instruct me what I am to say if the king or
any of the ministers makes any overtures on this matter. My
informant told me that the Resident was extraordinarily anxious
to have the chance of a hand in this affair, and very ambitious
to bring it to a conclusion, indeed he said it was the chief
reason for his being sent to this Court.
I have received this week the state despatches of the 23rd and
29th June.
London, the 27th July, 1635.
[Italian ; the part in italics deciphered.] |
515. Anzolo Correr, Venetian Ambassador in England, to
to the Doge and Senate.
The day before yesterday Curtius came to see me, who was sent
here by the Administrator to agitate the interests of the Palatinate
After an exchange of compliments he told me he had
come here, backed by letters from the Administrator, to make a
supreme effort (gli ultimi sforzi) with this crown for him, to obtain
some assistance in support of the Prince Palatine. He had presented
the letters to his Majesty and made the representations of
his instructions both before him and before the leading ministers
here. He had exerted himself to demonstrate that if his Majesty
does not undertake the protection of those affairs with resolution
they will very speedily be reduced to their original state of suffering ;
because if the Administrator does not seek from France the
help which is necessary for him he cannot by himself by any
means resist the impetuous attacks of the enemy in the future.
Curtius says they told him that the king loved his nephew and
had his interest at heart as much as his own, and that he was
always thinking about the best means of supporting him, and so
with these and like fair words they drag the matter out, with the
deliberate intention, so far as one can see, of deciding nothing.
Curtius has sent an account of his proceedings with all speed
to the Administrator, whose reply he will await. In the mean
time, although he is aware that it is labour thrown away, he does
not cease to press his demands. He assures me that matters
there are indeed going from bad to worse every day, the fortresses
being destitute of the most necessary things. They still hold
Heidelberg castle, but the Administrator has abandoned Frankenthal
and gone to Sedan. In the general opinion at Court not a
step will be taken to succour them. Perhaps they think that
whenever they wish to repair the fall of that prince they will
always have the resource ready of opening negotiations with
Spain, but this is not approved as a good plan.
In addition to the operations of this minister fresh letters
from the Princess Palatine have reached the king brought by a
gentleman (fn. 9) express, imploring his compassion in the humblest
manner. She points out that the conclusion of the peace between
Saxony and Cæsar has taken place to the perpetual exclusion
of the interests of her children, and has for ever dashed all
her hopes of being established again in her own dominions unless
his Majesty, by kindly and vigorous assistance, resolves to supply
that vigour which, of themselves they utterly lack. They discussed
the matter at considerable length in the Council on Tuesday
last. Some suggested that, considering how little the Austrians
care about his nephews, the king might hand over a
naval squadron to the Prince Palatine, which could go to the
neighbourhood of Dunkirk against the ships of Spain, thus
supporting the Most Christian and diverting ruin from his own
states without England making any open declaration. They did
not consider this proposal seriously because they did not think
that they could touch this cord until they have first adjusted
the difference with France about the sovereignty of the sea, and
besides the majority lean a very different way. Accordingly,
without going any further, they adjourned the meeting to the
following Sunday, at Oatlands.
Gordon, the English agent accredited to Poland, arrived unexpectedly
last week with letters of credence from the king there,
and had audience of His Majesty on Sunday. He presented the
letters which return thanks for the mediation of England for
the peace with Sweden, for which he expresses his readiness.
As a testimony of this he is ready to leave the whole matter in
his Majesty's hands. He also refers to the marriage with the
Palatine princess. They say that it is absolutely settled and that
there are no further difficulties ; but I do not think that they
talk of it so freely and confidently as they would if they
were quite so certain. His Majesty heard Gordon graciously
and expressed his sincere desire for the tranquillity and welfare
of that crown and how glad he would be to hear of the conclusion
of the marriage.
Gordon states that Silesia has refused to be included in the
peace made by Saxony. They have made overtures to Poland
and hope that the king there will defend them. Poland is likely
to accept gladly, because of his claims to the country, if the
news be true. The Hispanophiles here accordingly throw doubt
upon it, as they see what a blow it would be to their party.
Gerbier writes from Brussels that the Prince of Orange has
raised the siege of Louvain, (fn. 10) from necessity and retired to Arescot,
which he has also been obliged to abandon to the enemy with
all the rest of the country occupied. The people there are now
as bold as before they were timid. Several reports confirm that
Frankfort has sent deputies to the King of Hungary proposing
a settlement, the vanguard of that king, under Coloredo, being
only six leagues from the town. All these reports, which are
received by the generality with extraordinary satisfaction, serve
to confirm the opinion which was held of the coming here of the
Queen Mother and of Princess Margaret of Lorraine, because
unless they are actually driven by necessity his Majesty is
certainly not pleased to see them so near.
The Ambassador Scudamore has taken leave of their Majesties
and is preparing to cross the sea ; he is only waiting for
one of the royal ships to be detached for him. He exchanged
final visits with the French ambassadors and told them that he
expected to be in France by the middle of next week. But as
they see the delay in assigning a royal ship for him, they doubt
that his departure has been secretly postponed until something
has been settled about this affair of the sea. (fn. 11) As they are unable
to obtain a positive reply on the subject they have sent to
France for further instructions. Before they receive new orders
they will make no further efforts, hoping that in the mean time
nothing untoward will happen, seeing that the royal ships are
apparently drawing ever nearer to these shores.
London, the 27th July, 1635.
[Italian ; the part in italics deciphered.] |