Venice: January 1550 | British History Online

Calendar of State Papers Relating To English Affairs in the Archives of Venice, Volume 5, 1534-1554. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1873.

'Venice: January 1550', in Calendar of State Papers Relating To English Affairs in the Archives of Venice, Volume 5, 1534-1554, (London, 1873) pp. 290-306. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/venice/vol5/pp290-306 [accessed 26 April 2024]

January 1550



1550. Jan. 1. Original Letter Book, Venetian Archives.	613. Matteo Dandolo, Venetian Ambassador at Rome, to the Signory.
	In order to do all that can be done to make the Cardinals hasten the election, they only allow one single dish, either roast or boiled, to be taken into them by their carvers (schalchi.)
	On Sunday, the Emperor's reply to the letters written to him on the 8th ultimo, announcing the first scrutiny of the Cardinal of England, arrived here. They reached him on the 18th December, and this answer, the contents of which your Serenity will find in the aforesaid copies, is dated the 19th.
	Rome, 1st January 1550.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 7. Original Letter Book, Venetian Archives.	614. News-letter from a “Conclavist,” enclosed in the Venetian Ambassador's despatch, dated 11th January.
	We are more in the dark than ever, and the proceedings are such, that not only may we rely on remaining here another 40 days, but after the second and third quarantine, we shall come out without a Pope, unless God of his mercy provide against it; so great is the obstinacy of those who govern. I do not write the details, as I should have too much to do, and for the salvation of my soul would fain forget them; and as your Lordship mentions the Cardinal of Trani [Giovandomenico de Cuppis], two evenings ago he thought he had something good in hand, but I knew he was deceiving himself, nor will anything but the utmost delay and desperation gain him voters; whereas owing to the last step taken by the “bench” (bancha), concerning the affairs of Parma, Farnese would approve of Monte, (fn. 1) though he does not mention him. But several of Farnese's adherents, and all the French Cardinals object to this candidate, so that little hope can be placed in him, and none at all as yet in anyone. Those who in my opinion have the least bad chance of all, are Pole, Sfondrato, (fn. 2) and in the long run (al longo andar), perhaps possibly, (forse forse), Monte; and be this taken as a recompense for Marino's prognostic, and not as an opinion to be relied on.
	Rome, 7th January 1550.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 7. Cerimoniali della Chiesa di S. Marco, p. 125, Venetian Archives.	615. Funeral of the Ambassador from England [Sigismund Harvel.]
	Expended for the funeral of the most noble Lord Ambassador of England, the Lord (il Signor) Sigismund Harvell, at S. Geremia; and he was carried to [the church of] Saints John and Paul.
		No.
	For torches weighing 6 lbs. each, for the “Gesuati” (fn. 3)	40
	For torches weighing 3 lbs. each, for the “Scola” (confraternity) of St. Mark	40
	For four torches weighing 10 lbs. each at [the church of] San Geremia, two at the head, and two at the feet of the canopy	4
	For little candles for the chapter of St. Mark, and that of San Geremia, to perform the office [in the church of] San Geremia	20
	For the two canopies, one at San Geremia, and the other at Saints John and Paul, candles weighing 4½ ounces each	800
	And on the sides, weighing 1 lb. each	30
	The which above-written wax lights were bought (tolte) of the most noble Messer Alvise Dolfin, grocer (spicier), at the sign of “the Well,” and he was paid by the most illustrious Signory, namely by the office for old accounts (dalle Rason Vecchie.)
	The four torches at Saints John and Paul, two at the head and two at the feet of the canopy, and the six torches in the choir for the oration, were paid for by the [Ambassador's] household (la casa li ha pagati).
	The four weighed 12 lbs. each, and the six 6 lbs. each.
	The cloaks for the mourners were made by the [Ambassador's] household (la casa li fece).
	The other expenses, viz., hatchments, black linen, and the costs of the platforms for the canopies, were defrayed by the [Ambassador's] household.
	For the vault (deposito) at Saints John and Paul, the [Ambassador's] household, by agreement with the Friars, (fn. 4) paid them -ducats ready money, and 200 “cara” of firewood.
	The [Ambassador's] household paid the chapter of San Geremia.
	The oration was delivered by a scholar of the Reverend M. Don Francesco Erizzo, Messer D. Antonio Stella, and he was paid by the [Ambassador's] household.
	The costs of the Master of the choir of St. Mark, for boat-hire and singing-boys (zoveni), who assisted at the funeral, were paid by the [Ambassador's] household.
	N.B. (Dechiarando). The most Illustrious Signory did not accompany this funeral, as they usually do by all Ambassadors, because the aforesaid was not a real (vero) ambassador, but as it were an envoy (nontio) and vice-ambassador.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 8. Original Letter Book, Venetian Archives.	616. Letter from N. to Cardinal Farnese, enclosed in a despatch from the Venetian Ambassador, dated 18th January.
	I write this evening to your Right Reverend Lordship solely to inform you that the Emperor's reply about Santa Croce [Marcello Cervino] has arrived, and is such as I imagined, for he does not intend to revoke the election in any way, (fn. 5) but continues firm in excepting Santa Croce, Ridolfi, and Salviati, and is staunch to Burgos [Francisco de Mendoza] and Pole.
	My duty as a true friend makes me also tell you that I know who ruins matters at the Imperial Court, and who manages them; and your Lordship must beware of thwarting this exception made by his Majesty, as it would be your ruin, for not on my own authority but from very sure advices from said Court, I inform you that the whole doubt is, whether you may not choose to say one thing and do another. This has been already suggested by those who base their suspicion on the mode adopted—your Lordship will pardon me—by the late Pope; and they think that being governed by the same counsels, you must operate in the same manner, and as this policy was the chief cause of the misunderstanding between his Majesty and his Holiness, so will it be your manifest ruin if you think of following it at present. I am unable to be more precise with your Lordship, nor do I believe you to be following this course; but, nevertheless, out of brotherly affection I remind you that not only is it contrary to your interests to do so, but that you ought not to give even the slightest hold (apicco) to your enemies, whereby to reproach you with this to his Majesty, but to continue sincerely and freely to support your two candidates Burgos and Pole, and not give cause to think otherwise. If you allow yourself to be turned the other way, you will see whether I have spoken truth; and should my advice not be followed, you will commence witnessing your ruin immediately on quitting Conclave. I very much wish that Burgos had not been named, to enable me more freely to enter into many details which I omit for his sake, as according to what little I know, I would fain pass in review all the Cardinals likely to become Pope (che possono esser Papa), and state, one by one, how they would affect your Right Reverend Lordship's interests, in order that you should preserve my prognostic, to see on a future day where I have hit the mark, or missed it. I believe, that after pondering the matter, you would think, as is the fact, that because in the lifetime of Paul I said I would be the friend of your family, (di voler esser loro amico), this alone sufficed to make me declare myself, and manifest whatever may benefit your Right Reverend Lordship and your house (casa); this being my chief reason for acting in this manner.
	Your Lordship will attribute this discourse to the good love which may be expected from a true friend, and from day to day you will know, what you will perhaps not be able to perceive at present, owing to the variety of counsels given you, and God grant they be as sound as mine; nor will I now importune you farther, and may God give you what you desire.
	Rome? 8th January 1550. Di N.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 8. Original Letter Book, Venetian Archives.	617. Letter from N. to Cardinal Farnese; enclosed in the despatch dated 18th January.
	The reply from the Imperial Court has been received; his Majesty will not hear a word about Santa Croce, and is very determined [against] Salviati and Ridolfi, and on the election of Burgos and Pole; so the [Imperial] Cardinals, if they wish to show how much they are the Emperor's servants, must proceed steadily on this road, in which, if they persevere, I think they will be victorious; but they must none of them suppose that they can feign one thing and do another, for I vow to you that his Majesty will know even whether they make water in this Conclave (che vi giuro che sua Maestà saperà sino se si piscia in cotesto conclave).
	Rome?, 8th January 1550.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 8. Original Letter Book, Venetian Archives.	618. Matteo Dandolo, Venetian Ambassador at Rome, to the Signory.
	Everybody is of opinion that there is not the slightest hope of having a Pope, not even in the course of a month, so the wagers at the bankers' shops continue to be very brisk. The Cardinal de Bourbon was left on Sunday at Florence, and comes on his journey bespattering (squazando) the whole world, for it is impossible to imagine worse weather either above or below, owing to the late heavy rains, so that here the Tiber has commenced alarming people. Nor do I know whether after Bourbon's entry, the Conclave will decide, for there is no such appearance, as both factions have again taken oath not to yield one to the other; and the Imperialists swear they will die with Pole on their lips, and never propose any one but England, to whom they all give way, and every morning they continue giving him their 23 votes. Chieti [Gianpietro Caraffa] has 22, the French saying that they also will die in Conclave.
	The French faction, however, has many candidates, though they obtain but few votes, save such as are given in jest, which on two occasions caused them such alarm, that now they will not even hear of it; so that Medon (sic), who yesterday had one single vote, complained of Trent [Madrucci], saying that at least had he given him his vote, he [Medon] should have had 31 votes, and been thus made Pope. They delay starting (correr) their first-rate candidates (i grossi) until the arrival of Bourbon, and they are so many in number, and of such a sort, that they might therefore come to a rupture, though even these Imperialists have used foul language to each other—Crescentio to Pacheco, (fn. 6) —because Pacheco wished to propose to him Trani [Giovandomenico de Cuppis], who is of the French faction, and perhaps as a joke, had 21 votes. Farnese and Santa Fiore also abused each other because Santa Fiore chose strongly to favour Salviati; and Sermoneta, who is of the French faction, in like manner vituperated Farnese. The language is said to be of such a sort, that I hope it is not true, and that the Conclavists being tired, narrate the worst they know.
	They moreover played a practical joke on well nigh all the Cardinals, who having assembled in the “Loggia,” the two factions —(one at one end and the other at the other)—took the aforesaid oath, and found themselves locked in during upwards of three hours, being told that they should not be let out, without their Pope; and had not the master of the ceremonies chanced to have another key, they would have made them stay there a long while. It is now 41 days since they were shut up in Conclave, and the Cardinals there are in number 46.
	Rome, 8th January 1550.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 10. Original Letter Book, Venetian Archives.	619. News-letter from a “Conclavist,” of the Fames (c) faction, enclosed in a despatch from the Venetian Ambassador, dated 11th January.
	This morning, Pole lost two votes, and was on a par with Chieti [Gianpietro Caraffa], who since many days has always 21 votes, which is not surprising, as your Lordship knows that our side always reckoned on the loss of four votes, including these two of Visco (sic) [Crispo?] and Cibo. Doria and another were also to do the like, but even they will not suffice by their seccession to prevent the designs of the opposite party from being thwarted. The obstinacy of the latter and the perseverance of the former is such, that we have no longer any hopes of getting out of Conclave, unless it be without a Pope; and you other reverend prelates, who see these disorders, and whose business it is to apply a remedy, disregard them, without attempting to devise any good scheme for their dispersion, before yet greater disturbance arise; but ail may rest assured that if man will not provide, the Almighty will, infallibly.
	Rome, 10th January 1550.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 10. Original Letter Book, Venetian Archives.	620. News-letter from a Conclavist, enclosed in the Venetian Ambassador's despatch, dated 11th January.
	The obstinacy (durezza) increases; humanly speaking, there is as yet no visible end, unless the Sovereigns agree to charge their agents here to come to a decision, of which it seems that there is some hope and intention.
	The Emperor has written that after the Epiphany he will send an envoy to the most Christian King about this matter. Since yesterday England has lost two votes, namely Visco (sic) [Crispo?] and Cibo, who were long beleaguered (batagliati) by the French, and Doria is about to become their third colleague. The cause is not materially affected by the reduction of 23 votes to 20, but it encourages the opposition, who are very determined to resist; 17 prevent election, but there remain 20 sure votes, who will not heed Genoa. (fn. 7) Nothing is thought of but the means whereby one party may thwart the other, and it is said that in this Conclave there have been more pioneers (guastatori) than Sultan Solyman had at the siege of Rhodes. The letters from Flanders are dated the 30th and 31st ult., and exclude and include all the candidates mentioned heretofore, greatly recommending Burgos [Juan Alvarez de Toledo], and it is thought he will choose to run another course (un altra lancia), but they also confirm the injunctions ut supra to remain staunch to Pole, as is and will be the case, so long as it shall please God. The two chief factions (masse) during the last few days, have held congregations in which they reciprocally excluded each others' candidates, so that they neither attend to any treaty of concord, nor do they think of it. Recourse must be had to the Lord God, as for the present no other remedy is or can be visible.
	On the 10th of January, in the stink and stench of the Conclave (nella puzza et fettore del conclave) at the fifth hour, Visco (sic) [Crispo or Crispi?] (fn. 8) had 13 votes, nine from the French, and four from the others.
	Rome, 10th January 1550.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 11. Original Letter Book, Venetian Archives.	621. Matteo Dandolo, Venetian Ambassador at Rome, to the Signory.
	I enclose copies of advices (polizze) [written in the Conclave by “Conclavisti,” or attendants of the Cardinals] from the 7th down to yesterday; this last being written by one of the most judicious persons in the Conclave. Today I have not yet been able to procure any intelligence.
	The “advice” of yesterday contains all the authentic news hitherto attainable (if authentic it can be called); and what I collect from other sources is, that the Cardinals Cibo and Visco (sic) [Crispo?], who seem to have deserted England, are again in hopes of being Pope, although Cibo promises, that whenever there is a possibility of England's election, he will not fail him; but Visco will by no means return to England. It is also asserted that seven or eight of the Cardinals are arranging secretly to give their votes (sui accessi) to Cardinal Pole whenever they see him in a way to succeed (in termine di poter riuscire), and that the Emperor was to send to perform an office with the most Christian King in favour of England. Nov does his Imperial Majesty recommend Burgos [Francesco Mendoza y Bovadilla] because he wishes him to be elected, but in order to facilitate the election of England, Cardinal Farnese having written to him about the difficulties he encountered with regard to Cardinal Pole's election. In his letter to Cardinal Farnese, dated the 31st December, the Emperor replies, praising him much for the mode in which he has proceeded, and warning him that it should not be called obstinacy, but constancy; he urges him to persevere in supporting England as long as he can, and when it seems impossible to accomplish the election of Cardinal Pole, he is to turn his thoughts to some other person, who must be an honest man (homo da bene), not hostile to his Majesty, and favourable to the private interests of the Farnese family; and with such choice his Majesty will be satisfied.
	In the congregation held by the French Cardinals amongst themselves alone, their chief the Cardinal de Guise admonished them earnestly (efficacemente), in their King's name, not to elect England, and that should any of them choose to do so, they were to tell him so, and assign their reasons, which might be such, that were three or four of them of this mind, he likewise would favour his election (gli condescenderebbe). Thereupon they all pledged their faith to him, not to vote for Pole, to whom Guise shows himself very adverse (molto contrario). Thus will they continue awaiting letters from the King, and perhaps from the Emperor likewise, in reply to what the Cardinal of Trent wrote him, which seems to have been in favour of Salviati, and possibly also to what Farnese wrote him subsequently. The wagers at the bankers' shops go jumping (saltando) and falling for Ridolfi and these others, but very low for all of them (ma molto basse per ogn' uno) [but heavy odds against all of them?], which shows that not even these merchants, although they have many Florentines in Conclave (fn. 9) and obtain the very best information, have anything more to rely on The highest wager current is 60 per cent. that a Pope will not be elected during the whole of this month, and 26 per cent. during the whole of February; but God can do more in one hour than all human discourses in many.
	Rome, 11th January 1550.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 11. Original Letter Book, Venetian Archives.	622. News-letter from a Conclavist of the Farnese faction, enclosed in the Venetian Ambassador's despatch, dated 11th January.
	This morning Pole had twenty-one votes, as yesterday morning, and so had Chieti [Gianpietro Caraffa]. Since last evening something, with which I am not acquainted, has been said about Ridolfi, but as no particulars are heard, no hope is placed in him, although some persons declared that he is not amongst the candidates excluded by the Emperor; yet this seems unreasonable, as his case is the same, or even a stronger one, than that of Salviati.
	Rome, 11th January 1550.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 11. Original Letter Book, Venetian Archives.	623. News-letter from a Conclavist of the French faction enclosed in a despatch from the Venetian Ambassador, dated 11th January.
	The affairs of the Popedom (del Papato) are going as they went many days ago, and although Cibo and Visco (sic) [Crispo?] have deserted the Imperialists, they, however, remain with 21 votes on each side, both of which will make noise and not hit the mark (et non coglieranno) unless they coalesce.
	In the last letters from the Emperor's Court neither Monte nor Ridolfi were excluded, which is very good news; all are exerting themselves (et ogn' uno si aiuta), and affairs are even rather brisk. In two days they will improve, as according to report the Imperialists will lose two more votes, but the matter depends entirely on Farnese, who will not decide.
	Rome, 11th January 1550.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 11. Deliberazioni Senato (Secreta), v. lxvi, p. 129, tergo.	624. The Doge and Senate to the Bailo at Constantinople.
	Their last letters from France, dated the 1st instant, announce the appointment by the most Christian King of four commissioners, the King of England having nominated a like number, that they may all hold a conference to treat and adjust the disputes between their two Kings concerning the restitution of Boulogne to the most Christian King for the money which the deceased King [Francis] bound himself to pay the King of England.
	Ayes, 191. Noes, 4. Neutrals, 3.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 12. Lettere del Collegio (Secreta), File no. 18.	625. The Doge and College to Daniel Barbaro, Venetian Ambassador in England.
	Enclose a summary for communication as usual.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 12. “Annali” Venetian Archives.	626. Marin Cavalli, Venetian Ambassador with the Emperor to the Doge and Senate.
	The last despatch sent hence to Rome was dated the 5th instant; his Majesty disapproved entirely of supporting the canvass for the Popedom of the Cardinals Salviati and Santa Croce, to which Cardinal Farnese seemed inclined, having found means, should either of them be elected, to make sure of Parma and the Council of Trent. Orders have been given to favour the Cardinal of Burgos, and should this not be possible, then the Cardinal of England. A sharp reproof has been given to Don Diego, telling him that he has more at heart his own private interest than the service of his Imperial Majesty; this proceeded from the Duke of Alva and the whole Toledo family, who are extremely dissatisfied with him.
	The news of the release of the Protector of England was heard here with no little regret, as it will apparently be the ruin of the Earl of Warwick, with whom his Imperial Majesty has an understanding (praticha); and it has been hinted to me, on authority, that the arrest of the Protector, and these late risings in London, had their root in this Court. Here they are awaiting the result of the negotiations for peace between the most Christian King and the English. The English Ambassador here has been allowed the use of 700 German horse should he need them, though it does not seem they have been sent for.
	Brussels, 12th January 1550.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 15. Original Letter Book, Venetian Archives.	627. Matteo Dandolo, Venetian Ambassador at Rome, to the Signory.
	Yesterday morning the Cardinal de Bourbon [arrived from France], and he also entered Conclave, saying that he did so without ambition, and should quit it without passion. Together with him seven attendants were admitted, so that by this time there must be a good 400 persons in Conclave, the servants being so familiar with the Cardinals that very often they do not even doff their bonnets to them. In the scrutinies, they continue giving their 21 votes to England and the same number to Chieti [Gianpietro Caraffa]; and now, even in Conclave amongst the Cardinals themselves, wagers of amber rosaries, perfumed gloves (which no one can do without), she mules, chains, and even of money are made, some of their Lordships wagering that we shall have a Pope before the end of this month, and some later. The Duchess of Parma [Margaret of Austria] sent the Cardinal of Trent [Christopher Madruccio] an amber chaplet, telling him that he well knew how to make such a Pope as would be confirmed by the Emperor.
	At the bankers' shops the wagers on the Cardinals are at a low ebb, 16 at the utmost for the favourites, namely, England, Ridolfi, and Salviati; but 62 per cent. is wagered that the Pope will not be made in the course of this month, and 22 per cent. that neither will February witness the election. Forty-eight days have now elapsed since the Conclave was closed, and it now numbers 48 Cardinals, who may indeed be said to be at large, rather than locked up; for their dispatches go and come by the ordinary mails as if they were each of them free in Rome, and not confined in Conclave; and the servants, whether sick or sound, depart and return at their pleasure. The Cardinals Santa Croce [Marcello Cervini] and Bologna [the French Cardinal of Boulogne], who are also sick, will come back when the voting commences in earnest. It is heard from the Treasurer that since the Pope's death 300,000 crowns have been spent.
	By letters, dated the 4th instant, from the Emperor, it is heard that his Majesty was in good health; and with regard to particulars [relating to the Conclave], discourse varies. Some say he wrote that if unable to succeed in electing Cardinal Pole, he referred himself in everything and thoroughly to the College, provided they elect a man of worth (un homo da bene); and that he has written to Madame [his natural daughter, Margaret of Austria,] and to Cardinal Farnese, that they are to be of good cheer (de bona voglia) about the affairs of Parma, as he will cause them to have it, let the College elect what Pope they will, but that Cardinal Farnese must be staunch to Pole (ch' el stia fermo su Polo), next to whom (appresso il quale) he writes in recommendation of Burgos, exhorting Farnese not to act like his grandfather [Paul III.], who made a show of doing one thing and then attended to another (die mostrava di voter far una cosa et poi tendeva ad un' altra), because if he [the Cardinal] acted in that way, he [the Emperor] likewise would then fail to support his interests.
	It is said that whenever Salviati shall choose to canvass (vorà correr) he may rely on 26 or 27 votes.
	By the news-letter of a “Conclavist” in attendance on Trani [Giovandomenico de Cuppis, Cardinal Archbishop of Trani] written to a friend of his, it is heard that owing to the discord and obstinancy in Conclave, there is no hope of electing a Pope in the whole course of this month, so the writer recommends his correspondent to make wagers on February; and he says that the affairs of the Cardinal of Trani are proceeding very well. Yesterday they scrutinized (fu scrutiniato) Bourbon [Charles de Vendôme] who had 19 votes; England, 21; Chieti [Gianpietro Caraffa], 22; and today Morone (fn. 10) had 24, and two accessi, given, it is supposed, in jest rather than in earnest.
	It is said that Farnese and his 21 voters have held congregation, and determined to remain firm and united, usque ad mortem.
	Rome, 15th January 1550.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 17. Original Letter Book, Venetian Archives.	628. News-letter from a “Conclavist” enclosed in a despatch from the Venetian Ambassador, dated 18th January.
	There is not a single Cardinal without firm hopes of becoming Pope, by means of this their deceit, and everything remains in confusion. The votes are as usual, 13 for Morone, 21 for Pole, and 22 for Chieti [Gianpietro Caraffa].
	Rome, 17th January 1550.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 18. Original Letter Book, Venetian Archives.	629. Matteo Dandolo, Venetian Ambassador at Rome, to the Signory.
	On Thursday morning they again scrutinized Morone, but gave him only 13 votes; England has his 21; and Chieti his 22.
	Yesterday I received a note from Cardinal Pisani, telling me that hitherto the Conclave has been intent on undoing, but is now beginning to do, so he hoped that in eight or ten days they will have done, and well. The Archbishop Cornaro also came to me in the name of his Right Reverend Cardinal [Andrea Cornaro, created Cardinal by Paul III.], to show me letters from his Right Reverend Lordship [written to members of the French faction?], apologising for having declared himself for Pole, as he chooses to satisfy his conscience, knowing for certain that he thus votes for a man of everlasting virtue (un perpetuo homo da bene), and does his country good service, as Pole is a great friend to the Republic, and that in similar cases no one will ever be able to command him, Cornaro, save God and his country.
	Yesterday also, at the scrutiny (servitio), they gave Morone his 13 votes, 21 to England, 21 to Chieti, and 17 to Trani [Cuppis], who had arranged for more, as your Serenity will perceive by the enclosed news-letter. He prayed the Cardinals in the first place no longer to continue in this form, but to divest themselves of all private passion, and he was seconded most eloquently by Chieti [Caraffa], so that it seemed premeditated. Pacheco, seeing that no one spoke, replied that the Imperialists proposed to them a candidate [Reginald Pole], whom they rejected, solely because he was too virtuous; (fn. 11) whereupon their Right Reverend Lordships used foul language (brutte parole) to each other.
	The enclosed brief news-letter will also show your Serenity what took place today, and I likewise send two letters written by the Duke of Florence, one to Don Pedro de Toledo, who is in Conclave with the Cardinal of Burgos, the other to Cardinal Farnese. The Cardinal of Boulogne is very ill, owing to the syringe (siringa), but says he will not die out of Conclave, so that he may not fail dying in the service of his King.
	The wagers at the bankers' shops on the chief candidates do not amount to 13, but 63 [per cent.?] is waged that a Pope will not be elected this month, 22 [per cent.?] that the election will not be made in February, and 12 [per cent.?] against its being effected in March.
	Rome, 18th January 1550.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 22. Original Letter Book, Venetian Archives.	630. Matteo Dandolo, Venetian Ambassador at Rome, to the Signory.
	Cardinal Farnese has informed the Cardinal de Guise that they [the Imperialists and Farnesians] have 22 united votes, which will always remain firm in rejecting Salviati, Ridolfi, Chieti [Caraffa], Trani [Cuppis] and Lorraine, or any other Frenchman; and Guise answered him that he and his party will never consent to any Spaniard or German, nor to Pole, nor Sfondrato, nor Morone, nor Carpi [Rodolfo Pio]. Old French Cardinals urge the young ones to persist in this, as they [the old ones] will do to the death for the service of their King. So at the bankers' shops they no longer make wagers on Cardinals, but 88 is wagered that a Pope will not be made in January, 61 by the middle of February, 55 by the end of the month, 20 that the election will not take place during the whole of March; and they even wager 8 that the Cardinals will go out of Conclave without a Pope. The greater part of those who [now] leave the Conclave are of this opinion, many of them departing sick, and almost dead, and their places are supplied by none but butlers and footmen. The stench is so great that Norsia, the first physician in Rome, (fn. 12) having entered Conclave, threatened them with plague on this account, and also with the “falling sickness” on account of the charcoal fires which they burn in the cells, and their maladies already commence with giddiness. Cardinal Ridolfi likewise, instead of going out of Conclave as Pope, took his departure last Monday as an invalid, and being seized with vomit it was suspected he had been poisoned, so that the Cardinals mutinied against the prelates, and would no longer allow their food to be placed by them at the wicket, but that it should be presented by their [the Cardinals'] own carvers. The prelates, resenting this, cleared themselves of the charge, so that they continue performing their usual office; the senior Cardinal (Revmo. Decano) having admonished them to serve well, and to suppose (et faccino conto) that they are now commencing.
	Rome, 22nd January 1550.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 23. “Annali,” Library, Venetian Archives.	631. Marin Cavalli, Venetian Ambassador with the Emperor, to the Doge and Senate.
	The Emperor's adherents, perceiving Cardinal Farnese to be so staunch an Imperialist, and that the arrival at Rome of the French Cardinals was so long delayed, began firmly to hope that they might make either Burgos or England Pope; and thus, at the persuasion of the Duke of Alva, and for their own advantage, the Imperialists commenced the negotiation accordingly, without writing anything about it to Milan. His Majesty is convinced that had it not been for the practices already commenced and the favour shown by his ministers to Salviati, Burgos would now be Pope.
	Brussels, 23rd January 1550. (fn. 13)
	[Italian.]
Jan. 25. “Annali,” Library, Venetian Archives.	632. The Same to the Same.
	By letters from Rome, dated the 15th, his Majesty was informed that Cardinal Salviati makes such progress daily, that it is considered quite certain he will shortly be elected Pope. So being unable to prevent this, it would be well for his Majesty to desire his servants to support him, that he may have some reason to acknowledge himself obliged to the Emperor. It seems that Salviati promises not to fail doing whatever his Majesty may deem expedient for the conservation and increase of our holy Christian Faith; and moreover he offers, in very bland language, always to be the best of friends to him. This intelligence gave great displeasure, and I am assured that his Majesty complained extremely of his ministers, and amongst the rest, of the Cardinal of Trent, who seems in Conclave to have taken upon himself to obtain from Brussels the Emperor's consent in Salviati's favour; whereupon his Majesty wrote him a letter of reproof (una lettera rebufatoria), desiring him for the future to attend to the execution of his Imperial Majesty's commands, and never again take upon himself to proceed or promise farther.
	Brussels, 25th January 1550.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 25, Original Letter Book, Venetian Archives.	633. Matteo Dandolo, Venetian Ambassador at Rome, to the Signory.
	My last was dated Wednesday, as usual, and on Thursday Cardinal Cibo likewise went out of Conclave from indisposition, but is now better, and so is Ridolfi, so that they are expected to return this week.
	Nothing more is said about the scrutinies—they are of one mould as usual; neither are the wagers mentioned; and yet it seems that the Emperor's orders continue in favour of Burgos, Pole, and Sfondrato, but that he would be best satisfied with Pole, as besides his being a virtuous man (huomo da bene), to him there are none of the objections which disparage the others; (fn. 14) and should the French Cardinals be unable to elect their King's nominees, they will at least let a man of worth be appointed; (fn. 15) but they are still awaiting advices and replies.
	Rome, 25th January 1550.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 25. Lettere del Collegio (Secreta), File no. 18.	634. The Doge and College to the Venetian Ambassador in England.
	Informed him by their last that the most Serene Lord Turk [Sultan Soliman] was from day to day expected back at Constantinople. By letters dated the 22nd December, they now learn that on the 21st he presented himself at Scutari in front of Constantinople, where he embarked on board a four-banked galley very handsomely decorated, and together with two other galleys and many “palandre” and other vessels, proceeded to Constantinople accompanied by the Magnificos the Bashaws and a great numberoof the Turkish grandees. On landing he mounted his horse with great agility, and in very good health, as appeared by his countenance, and rode to the Seraglio, the guns of the city and of the ships in the harbour saluting him with repeated discharges; and he was also accompanied by a great number of janissaries and other people. Have chosen to give him immediate notice of this return, for communication as usual.
	Ayes, 18. Noes, 0. Neutrals, 0.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 29. Lettere del Collegio (Secreta), File no. 18.	635. Matteo Dandolo, Venetian Ambassador at Rome, to the Signory.
	Duke Ottavio has sent Gioan Alphonso, his chamber attendant (cameriero), to Cardinal Farnese to tell him to make the best Pope he can for their family, as there is but little to hope [from the Emperor?] about Parma, though it is nevertheless asserted that whenever Farnese shall desert England, his 21 voters—with the exception of a very few—will not follow him in favour of any other candidate. They declare that they are not to be bound to him with regard to others, but at liberty to go by themselves to those they like best, so that but a very few votes would remain at his disposal; and this is the cause of his obstinacy (durezza) in not deciding on any other candidate, as he could no longer say that he [Farnese] had elected him.
	The people of Spoleto have retaken their castle of Cereto, which the Pope had annexed to Camerino, so there likewise they are in arms. To quell these disturbances, the Conclave has elected six Cardinals, one for each nation, videlicet, Chieti [Gianpietro Caraffa, Roman], Augsburg [Otho Trusches, German], Bourbon [French], Pacheco [Spaniard], Visco (sic) [Crispo?], (fn. 16) and Pole [English].
	The Conclavists, who yesterday and today quitted Conclave, declare, apart one from the other, that there they consider the election of a Pope hopeless (che in Conclave ogni altra cosa si spera che di vedere un Papa fatto). The scrutinies are made every morning as usual, when they give their 21 votes to Chieti [Caraffa] and Pole, but not many to the others, and not in earnest (da seno). It is said they are still awaiting letters from France.
	Rome, 29th January 1550.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 31. Original Letter Book, Venetian Archives.	636. Copy of a Letter from a Conclavist, enclosed in the despatch of Matteo Dandolo, dated 1st February.
	We are effecting the reformation, and matters are being straitened in every quarter, so as to do what they have failed doing hitherto. The necessity for making a Pope is acknowledged, but as yet things stand so that there is little hope of speed, as the French choose to have one after their own fashion, and would be content with Trani [Giovandomenico de Cuppis], Salviati, or Ridolfi, as they are well nigh quite convinced that they cannot hope for a Pope of their own nation, though they made but a feeble attempt; and Ferrara [Hippolito da Este], who was apparently thinking about this and canvassing for them, is likewise almost persuaded.
	The Imperialists would wish for Burgos [Juan Alvarez de Toledo, Archbishop of Burgos], Sfondrato, or Morone; and Farnese with his voters—who are however few—are on their side. Even they have not much hope in their candidates' success, but they trust to tire out the French, who are at present more determined than ever to remain in Conclave, as by letters from their King they are now desired not to return to France, unless they make a Pope in their own fashion; and he writes again in favour of Ridolfi, who would be more to the taste of Cardinal Farnese than either of the other three, and this has been his constant opinion. But to secure himself against Salviati's being Pope, Farnese was compelled so to bind himself by words and letters to the Emperor, that he cannot retract; yet does he sometimes evince the intention of doing so, and most especially because the French assure him that he cannot have Parma without them, nor without making a Pope to their mind; and because they have sent money into Parma, nor will they fail supplying him.
	Farnese is also very dissatisfied with the Emperor, who would fain keep Parma for himself, giving him as recompense an annual rental—in the air—of 40,000 crowns; and the Imperialists would also wish him to cede his claims on Piacenza. For these reasons Cardinal Farnese and Ottavio have determined not to make war, and to await the new Pontiff, especially as they perceive the difficulty of keeping possession of Parma, even if they took it. The last messenger from Ottavio to Cardinal Farnese announces the same dissatisfaction, the resolve not to continue the war, and his wish to come to Rome; for being unable to obtain Parma, he purposes asserting that the cession of Castro, (fn. 17) as prejudicial to his children, is null, in virtue of a protest made by “Madame” [Margaret of Austria, Duchess of Parma,] at the time of said cession; and these two brothers [Ottavio and Orazio] will come to blows, which will be their final ruin.
	St. Angelo (fn. 18) has told Farnese (fn. 19) plainly that in this matter he will so contrive that no one will desert Castro [Orazio Farnese], and that his [Alessandro Farnese] enemy Salviati shall be made Pope; so that affairs are in great confusion. But Farnese [Alessandro], nevertheless, will not yet decide, and no later than last evening they broke with Guise, to whom he [Farnese] had given hopes of a decision. He seems still bent on his own candidates, and desirous of making either Sfondrato or Monte, Pope; but all his adherents will not follow him, even with regard to those two; nor can he succeed without the votes of the French Cardinals. In conclusion, each side is obstinate, but should Farnese decide (as he frequently causes it to be hoped or feared he will), no one will please him better than Ridolfi; and of this there are a thousand indications.
	Rome, 31st January 1550.
	[Italian.]
Jan. 31. Original Letter Book, Venetian Archives.	637. Matteo Dandolo, Venetian Ambassador at Rome, to the Chiefs of the Ten.
	The letters written by me to the Senate are divulged here, news which I had not given for certain being moreover represented as such. I now inform your Lordships that Cardinal Cibo, after the conversation held with me, as already written, desired his attendants to withdraw, and then continued expatiating on the wretched condition of the Sacred College, and of all Italy, both one and the other having submitted in this so necessary and exalted (degno) an election to submit to the decision of these two Princes [the Emperor Charles V. and Henry II., King of France]. That the Emperor has already so much [territory] in Italy that he might be satisfied, which is so far from being the case that his ambassador [Don Diego], under the pretence of paying him [Cibo] a visit, protested to him in his Majesty's name, that were either Santa Croce [Marcello Cervino], or Salviati, or Ridolfi elected Pope, the Emperor would not acknowledge him.
	After this, Cardinal Cibo inveighed somewhat, but gently, against our Cardinals (fn. 20), because being members of so free and well-constituted a Republic, they had rendered themselves subject, the one to the Emperor and the other to France, adding, “It cannot be denied that England is a very virtuous man (un grand' homo da bene), but nevertheless Italy ought not to be deprived of so important a post;” and he [Cibo] therefore complained of Cardinal Cornaro rather more than of Cardinal Pisani.
	As Cardinal Cibo is an Imperialist, of which he makes profession, as known to everybody, he prays and beseeches me to keep this a most profound secret, as it would be his ruin if divulged, though he could not refrain from these remarks, because he is at the same time an Italian, and will remain so until death, and by reason of his affection for the Signory, sole relic of Italy's pristine happiness (sola reliquia di quanto bene che hebbe Italia già mai). I limited myself to a general reply, thanking his right reverend lordship for his confidential affection, and commending his good intention of being a good Italian. Your Excellencies must also remember that his nephew was beheaded at Milan by the Emperor's order, on a charge of having an understanding at Genoa, (then dependent on Fiesco), against the person of Prince Doria. So I consider it my duty to acquaint you with these particulars in order, that, if communicated to the Senate, the strictest secrecy may be enjoined, as if divulged, this personage, so well affected to the State, would suffer much; and I also, perhaps, to the detriment of your service, for the sake of which, however, I hold my life in little account. Nor will I omit telling you that although many blame our Cardinals for this their fixity of purpose (fissezza), they are also praised by many who say they are true gentlemen, and show themselves such, like their noble country, which never fails in a given promise; and Michiel has told me, Cardinal Pisani said in Conclave, that he sought to make a Pope of the French faction (fattione Francese), knowing that he should thus benefit his country, which shared the fortunes of France in resisting the Emperor's greediness and thirst for universal monarchy.
	Rome, 31st January 1550.
	[Italian.]