LETTER I. To * * *

'TIS an unspeakable Joy to me to find by your Letter, that his Holiness has conde­scended to grant me that Dignity, which the King was willing to have me honour­ed with, since so authentick an Approba­tion will without question cover those Defects that I may be guilty of: I shall think my self extremely happy, if while I serve the King and State, he gives me as frequent op­portunities of serving the Church, as I do, and ever shall desire to have so long as I live. In the mean time I give you a thousand Thanks for the great Satisfaction you have express'd upon this Occasion, humbly begging you to believe that it will be a most particular one to my self, when I shall have an Opportunity to convince you by the Effects rather than by Words, that I am,

LETTER II. To Monsieur de Herbaux at Rome.

I Have receiv'd the two Letters which you sent me inclos'd in that of the Sieur Rabbi, on the 9th. of August, with a Cypher to them, in the same Pacquet. I thank you for the good Advice you sent me, and have not fail'd to ac­quaint the King with it, as I was oblig'd to do, for his Service, and your Satisfaction: We shall make use of it as Physicians do of innocent Remedies, that never hurt. His Majesty is resolv'd at any rate to ridd himself of this Affair of the Valtoline, provided his Honour will not suffer by it. As for my self, I cannot sufficiently admire how the Pope comes to stir himself no more in a Busi­ness of such vast importance, not only to the Church, but to Christendom in general. I am very well satisfy'd that the Interest of Urbin, where he apprehends the Spa­niards concern themselves in favour of the Great Duke, makes him act with so much reservation upon this occasion. But then 'tis as plain, that there are other general Inte­rests, that more nearly regard the common Good of the Church, and consequently that of the Holy Chair, which ought to incline his Holiness to put an End to this Af­fair; it being certain that things are sometimes carried farther than one cou'd have imagin'd at their first starting up, and that if France engages her Word to other Prin­ces and States, that are willing to assist her in this Con­juncture, it will be no easie matter to bring her off again. I can assure you, his Majesty is so strict an Observer of his Word, that when he has once given his Promise, no­thing in the World can induce him to violate it. From this Affair I pass to the Dispensation for the Match with England, and must tell you, the King is extremely sur­priz'd at some Reports that come from Rome, that the Pope will not allow it upon lower Terms than he grant­ed that with Spain: 'Tis enough, as I conceive, for the obtaining it, that the King shall procure such Articles [...] are necessary for the Salvation of the Princess, and [Page 3] all her Family, and that there be room to hope that the Catholicks of England will be gainers by the Marriage: Now the Affair is not only in this Condition, but we have procur'd more advantageous Terms, as Monsieur de Berule will inform you farther. Thus his Majesty ha­ving done every thing for his Holiness, that cou'd be expected from a Christian Prince, and one of his known Piety, there is not the least Appearance to believe he will receive any other Treatment but what he may just­ly expect. There is no necessity to stick to the Articles of Spain, but only to see whether those of France are lawful and sufficient. Now since they are really such, what a Displeasure will it be to his Majesty, to receive a Refusal, which may, perhaps, carry him to some Ex­tremities, that I wou'd not by my good Will, so much as think of. Not to insist upon the Zeal I have for his Majesty's Interests, I shou'd rather chuse to suffer the severest Loss, than that ever things shou'd run to such a Crisis, which without doubt will prove prejudicial to the Church. I conjure you to represent at large to his Holiness, all that has been hinted to you in this Letter, and to assure him, that as upon a Refusal of the Dispensation, a World of Inconveniences will inevita­bly follow, so that abundance of Good may be expected from his Holiness's speedy dispatch of it. Pray conti­nue to write to me, and I will take care to answer your Letters, and to make it appear upon all Occasions, that I am,

LETTER III. To * * *

I Shew'd the King your last Letter, which I can assure you has been throughly consider'd, and you will find by the Effect, that your Advice will be always regarded as it deserves.

Monsieur de Bethune will communicate to you part of the Dispatch, that was sent to him by the Courier, and that will sufficiently instruct you what is to be done in these present Occurrences.

I cannot imagine but that the Pope must think of ac­commodating the matter of the Valtoline, because many Inconveniences may happen upon his not doing it, which you so well know, that I will not pretend to lay down the particulars here.

I judge it very proper for our Affairs, that you should recover the Diurnal of the Sauvages: To effect which, you may promise as far as a Pension of fifty Crowns reaches. In doing this you may use such mea­sures as you think the Affair will require, but you must not exceed the aforesaid Summ. Assure your self that N [...]s [...]r will mind his Business better for the time to come, that he has hitherto done.

As for what relates to the Breviary, there will no more mention be made of it here. The Person about whom you writ to me, being sent with all the requisite Submis­sions, to preserve every one in his Rights, and this has taken away all Jealousies.

The Letters of 49. shall most assuredly be kept Secret: The same shall be done if you think fit, with those of 41. With this [...] conclude my Letter, and earnestly de­sire you to believe that I am,

LETTER IV. To * * *

I Am extremely glad that the Proposals which Monsieur de Bethune has been order'd to make to the Pope, have been judg'd reasonable. I shall exceedingly wonder, if his Holiness does not hasten on his Part, to determine this Affair, as he is oblig'd in Interest, considering what ill Effects may happen upon his neglect of it. If his Ma­jesty's Councel had been six Months ago such as it is at present, we had taken wholsome Resolutions here much earlier, and so Matters might have ended according to all our Desires: But then it was impossible. What gives me the greatest disturbance is, that we loose a sine Opportu­nity of advancing the Interests of Religion, all long of this unfortunate Affair, to which, I hope, Heaven will put a speedy Conclusion. I can positively assure you, that nothing shall be omitted for the future, to rid us fairly of it, no more than I shall be wanting in my own particular, to testifie to you upon all Occasions, that I shall be ready to serve you, who am,

LETTER V. To * * *

SInce I receiv'd your Letter of the seventh of October, you know what has been the Success of the Valtoline. For this reason I shall forbear to say any thing to you a­bout it in this Letter. Nor shall I here trouble you with the Particulars of the Match with England, but inform you of them by the Courier, whom the King will dis­patch to Rome upon this Occasion. In the mean time I conjure you to rest fully satisfy'd of my Affection to you, and assure your self that I am,

LETTER VI. To * * *

I Have receiv'd your Letters, in answer to which, have abundance of things to say to you, and particu­larly about the Affair of the Valtoline, but that I am sa­tisfy'd that you have been already inform'd of them by the Marquis de Coeuvres, who I suppose does not fail to write often to Monsieur de Bethune. You'll find the Arti­cles of the Marriage with England are all agreed upon; so that nothing is wanting now to put an End to this Af­fair, but a Dispensation from his Holiness, who without doubt will most readily grant it, since the Condition are so advantageous to Religion. So soon as 'tis dis­patched, [Page 7] which I hope will be done with all convenient speed, Madam will set forward for Great Britain, where she is impatiently expected, as we are inform'd by the Ambassadors of England. Their Majesties are ex­tremely well pleas'd with this Alliance, and you'll rea­dily own that 'tis not without good reason. And now I passionately wish for an Opportunity to let you know with what Sincerity I am,

LETTER VII. To * * *

IN answer to yours of the 19th. of the last Month, I can positively assure you, that for the time to come the King will omit nothing that may be necessary to re-esta­blish things in the Valtoline, as they ought to be. The Pope cannot take it amiss, since 'tis really for the benefit of Christendom, and of the Holy Chair; and indeed 'tis not reasonable that the Spaniards shou'd press the See of St. Peter so nearly, that his Successors may come to be incommoded by it. The King's Council will vigorously second his Majesty's Inclinations upon all these Occasions. In the effecting of this, his Majesty has no intentions to disturb the Repose of Christendom, but only to maintain his own Reputation. I am satisfy'd you are of the same Opinion in this Matter, with my self, who am,

LETTER VIII. To * * *

THE King is extremely concern'd that he is not able to comply with all that the Sieur de Nardy demands in his Holiness's Name. If the Spaniards were not a sort of People that wou'd certainly take Advantage of every thing, the Requests of his Holiness have always such an Influence upon his Majesty, that he wou'd freely grant them. If the Pope were inclin'd to dispose of one part of France, he might do it without controul; but not­withstanding this Deference to his Holiness, and the Af­fection which the King has for his Person, his Majesty is oblig'd to manage himself with this caution in the Business of the Valtoline. I will not take upon me here to ac­quaint you with what, may and what may not be done, referring my self as for that, to Monsieur d' Herbault; but this I will tell you, that the King, who for his part has no intentions to make War, does not think himself ob­lig'd to a Cessation, and that he pays so profound a re­gard to the Person of his Holiness, that let this Matter be accommodated how it will, it will be much more agreeable to him, if 'tis done before him and by him, than if concluded in any other place, or by any other means whatsoever.

The Advices you receiv'd about the Hugonots, are but too true. Those People, instigated by the Devil, or some­thing as bad, have already begun to shew their ill In­clinations, having enter'd the Port of Blavet by Surprize, and landed with some Peices of Canon, with which they batter'd the Fort two Days, and thought to carry it by Treachery, or by putting the Garison in a Fright. The King has already receiv'd the News, that the whole Province march'd to their Relief; upon which the Ene­my got aboard their Vessels again, to save themselves, but took away two or three Ships of Monsieur de Nevers, that were then in the Harbour. These Attempts have been so far from hindering his Majesty's Designs, that he has [Page 9] already got together six Thousand Men in Bretagne, and six Thousand in Poictou, and reinforc'd the Armies of Champagne and Picardy, with twelve Thousand Men, and two thousand Horse; so that without any mag­nifying of Matters, the King pays at this present time sixty Thousand Effective Men in his own Kingdom, and six Thousand Horse. I hope God will give a good issue to his Majesty's Affairs. In the mean time I assure you that I am,

LETTER IX. To * * *

LEt your Speculative People at Rome make what Re­flexions they please upon the Enterprize of Monsieur de Soubize, yet here we are in hopes that he will do us no great Mischief. The King, to render his Design ineffectual, has equipp'd thirty Vessels of five hundred Tun each, which will infallibly reduce him to his Duty. Nor is this all, for his Majesty, to secure himself of those of the pretended Reform'd Religion, who wou'd have been glad to see new troubles in his Kingdom, and remove to those places where they look upon them­selves to be the strongest, has brought into the Field in Languedoc and Poictou, six Thousand Foot, and five Hun­dred Horse in each of those Provinces. His Majesty has taken this Course to keep all quiet at home, and at the same time continues to act abroad, pursuant to his first Resolutions. And altho' so many Affairs, which he has upon his Hands at once, engage him in an extraordinary Expence: Nevertheless, Heaven be prais'd, he has found out a way to support them, without incommoding him­self, having this Year provided above six Millions, to [Page 10] answer all Emergencies. This is what I had to commu­nicate to you upon this Subject, entreating you earnest­ly to believe that I am,

LETTER X. To * * *

THough I writ to you yesterday by F. Joseph, and sent you Word that we were upon the Point of enter­ing into a Conference with the Legate, yet I thought fit to take Pen in Hand again, to acquaint you that the King and his Ministers are intirely well satisfy'd with his Person. As for what relates to his Proposals, he de­mands that there be a Cessation of Arms, that the Forts of the Valtoline be put into his Holiness's Hands, and that the Valtolines be exempted from the Government and Jurisdiction of the Grisons; all which his Majesty and Council have absolutely refused for several Reasons, some of which you your self have often laid down in your Letters, and the rest you may find in the Letter which his Majesty has writ to Monsieur de Bethune. All that I have to tell you upon this Subject is, that the Negotiation is spun out so long, that I am afraid it will not have that Effect, which it were to be wish'd it might have, for the Good of Christendom. If the Le­gate makes any other Overtures, that may be embrac'd without hurting the Reputation and Interests of his Ma­jesty, both he and those that have the Honour to be of his Council, will be extremely glad to give all imaginable content to his Holiness and him. I am,

LETTER XI. To the King, upon his Promotion to the Dignity of Cardinal, 1622.
Out of Monsieur du Puy's Cabinet, MS. 569.

AS God showers down his Blessings upon his Crea­tures, not to receive any thing from them, since of himself he possesses all; but only to render them more happy, and more capable to accomplish his Will; so your Majesty, who is a lively Image of the Divinity, will not think it strange, if in thanking you for the Ho­nour to which your Goodness has rais'd me, I can do nothing else but profess an entire and religious Obedi­ence to your Commands, and assure you that I wou'd rather choose not to live at all, than fail to employ my Life and Dignity (which I owe to your Majesty's Boun­ty, as I do every thing I possess) perpetually in your Service. I beg of Heaven that it will permit me to be so happy in this Design, that my Actions may signalize me much more than the Purple, with which you have been pleas'd to Honour me. Then, SIR, and not till then, the Satisfaction I begin now to receive, will become perfect; for the only Passion I have in the World, is by all imaginable Demonstrations to convince you that I am,

LETTER XII. To the King.

I Am sensible that as a Subject cannot, without a Crime, become troublesome to his Prince, by making impor­tunate Demands, so he ought not to refuse the Effects of his Liberality. Tho' I have hitherto preserved my self from the first of these Inconveniences, yet, to my great regret, I find my self constrain'd to fall into the latter, humbly imploring your Majesty not to be offended that I cannot accept of the two Abbies which you have been pleas'd to bestow upon me. If I presum'd to make this Supplication without Cause, I confess it wou'd be very cri­minal; but since 'tis grounded upon Reason, I'm per­suaded you'll approve of it. Your Majesty knows that both these places are become vacant by the Death of the Grand Prior. Now as I was a Member of your Council when the Interests of your State oblig'd you to cause his Person to be apprehended, I shou'd act directly con­trary to my Conscience, if I shou'd raise to my self a­ny Advantage by his Misfortune, or share in his Spoils. I have already receiv'd several Marks of your Majesty's Bounty; and since you have upon this occasion declar'd your Inclinations of conferring others upon me, I can assure you that I will never be so ill advis'd as to re­fuse them, if your Service does not oblige me to the contrary, as my own Sentiments do in this matter. I conjure you, SIR, to accept of these Considerations, and to rest satisfy'd, that the only Interests I will cultivate, during the whole Course of my Life, shall be yours, and the Honour that may be acquir'd by serving so great a Prince. I am,

LETTER XIII. To the Queen, upon the taking of Privas.

THat your Majesty might be fully inform'd of all the remarkable Occurrences that happen here, I have dispatch'd this Bearer to you with all speed, to acquaint you that five or six hundred Men, who had retir'd into the Fort of Thoulon, having surrender'd themselves at Dis­cretion to his Majesty, the King was resolv'd to have part of them hang'd, another sent to the Gallies, and the least guilty among them to be pardon'd. But so it fell out, that as the Guards were entring the above-mention'd Fort, to prevent any Disorder, some Hugonots, more desperate than their Fellows, and among the rest one Chambelan of Privas, who had, as long as he was able, oppos'd their Surrendring at Discretion, by representing to them, That such People were generally hang'd for their pains; and that it was better to die by Fire, than by a Halter: I'll immediately, said he, ha­ving a Match in his Hand, set Fire to the Powder. And had no sooner said so, but was as good as his Word. The Fire destroy'd some of them; and others in the Fright threw themselves from the Bastion on which they stood, clearly out of the Fort, which was encompas­sed with the whole Army; for we were forc'd to block up the place before they wou'd surrender: But the Sol­diers imagining that they had blown up the Guards, who it seems were upon a high Platform above this Bastion, fell so outrageously upon these poor Men that leapt down, that they kill'd above two hundred of them, and that with such Fury and Disorder, that several of the Army were slain there, and some principal Officers had much ado to save themselves. Dr. Mullot fancied he shou'd have been dispatch'd thither as a Minister, but at present is more vexed at the Quality that has been given him, than at the Danger he underwent.

It looks as if it were a particular Judgment of God up­on this City, which has been always the Seat of Heresie [Page 14] in these Quarters. At first it was not resolv'd to a­bandon it to Pillage, but at Night its Fate was decreed, so the Gates were left open, for the Soldiers to march in, and plunder it. All Endeavours were us'd to save it from being burnt, but in vain, for not one House is left stand­ing in the Town, but all bury'd in Ashes. Nothing was omitted that might serve to preserve those that were re­tir'd into the Fort of Toulon, from the Fury of the Sol­diers, but they were constrain'd to expose themselves to it, leaping down from their Fortifications, and giving the Soldiers an occasion to exercise their Rage upon them with Fire, with which some desperate Fellows a­mong them, thought to have burnt themselves with the King's People.

Heaven was so kind to me, that I did not behold this cruel Scene; for the small Fatigue I had undergone for about seven or eight Days, during the Siege, constrain'd me to keep my Bed that very Day, on which these Wretches were us'd in this manner.

This involuntary Rigour which befel this City, and the Clemency that his Majesty has shew'd towards those places that surrendred freely, will convince the rest how much they are oblig'd in Interest to make their Peace in time, and not stay till they are constrain'd to return to their Duty. And indeed in these Parts, four or five small Cities, but well fortify'd, have already surrendred, viz. Bastide, Vagnac, la Tour de Salvas, and Baulines. Chabrille is to wait upon the King to Morrow, and yield up to him all the small Castles of Boussiers, and the Baulines, which were look'd upon to be the strongest of the said Places.

On the Tenth Day after the Trenches were open, Pri­vas was taken, altho' the Fortifications of that Town were exceeding strong.

'Tis impossible to relate the several Cruelties which these Rebels have us'd towards the Catholicks. Among others, after the Siege was begun, they took the Guar­dian of the Capuchins of Valence, a Man of an excel­lent Life, and singular Learning, and they treated him in so barbarous a manner, that they wou'd not kill him outright, till they had first cut off his Nose, and pluck'd out his Eyes.

St. André, and Ten or Twelve of the principal Leaders, are taken Prisoners. Several are in the Hands of some Gentlemen of the Army, who will endeavour to save them, for the great Summs of Money they offer for their [Page 15] Lives. Others have made their Escapes. And this, Ma­dam, is an account of what has happen'd to Privas.

The King will not part these two or three Days from hence, because he is oblig'd to stay till the Artilery comes up, which cannot be done so speedily in such an unpassa­ble Country as this is. So soon as he has resolv'd upon the Place where he is to go next, your Majesty shall with all Expedition be inform'd of it. In the mean time I beg you'll do me the Honour to believe that no Man in the World is, or can be, with more Sincerity than I am,

LETTER XIV. To Monsieur Ville aux-Clers.

I Send you these few Lines, to tell you, 'tis the King's pleasure that you shou'd dispatch a Courier to the Ma­reschal d' Estreé, with a Letter from his Majesty, bearing Order for him to make no difficulty to march the Troops that are in Compeigne, pursuant to what Instructions he will receive from Monsieur de Saint-Chaumont, to whom the King has communicated his Intentions upon this Sub­ject. In the mean time I remain,

LETTER XV. To the Duke of Hallwin.

ALtho' I writ to you two or three Days ago, yet I take occasion to send you these few Lines, to inform you that Orders are dispatch'd to Monsieur le Camus, to cause such Fortifications to be made at Narbonne and Leucate, as you and he shall judge necessary to put both those places in a good Posture of Defence.

There are likewise Commissions sent down to you, to raise four Regiments, and three Troops of Light-Horse, in case you think there will be occasion for so many. The manner of doing it is wholly left to your own Discretion, being impower'd to act according as you see the Necessity and Service of the King shall require it. Besides that his Majesty's Interest demands it of me, be assur'd that I shall take as much care of your Concerns, as you your-self can desire from any one, who is truly, as I am,

LETTER XVI. To the Mareschal de Chastillon.

I Cannot sufficiently express to you how entirely his Ma­jesty is satisfy'd with your manner of Commanding his Army. The greatest Pleasure you can do him is to keep it as compleat, and in as good Order as possibly you [Page 17] can. I am extremely well pleas'd that Monsieur de Brezê is pitch'd upon to serve the King in conjunction with you, knowing that he will honour you, and live after such a manner with you, that it will be to your mutual Satisfa­ction. As for my self, I shall be very proud to have an opportunity to convince you that I am,

LETTER XVII. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

ALtho' 'tis a needless Precaution to put you in Mind of being upon your Guard at Metz, knowing you will take all the care that can be desired, yet I thought my self obliged to inform you, that we have received Advice that the King's Enemies have a Design upon that place. I'm persuaded you'll give such effectual Orders where you are, that you'll let them find no opportunity to put what they threaten in execution. His Majesty is very well, God be praised, and Monsieur came this Day to see him. We have no News here that is worth the while to send to you: So that nothing remains for me, but to assure you of the Continuance of my Affection and Love to you, and that I am,

LETTER XVIII. To the same.

COlonel Hebron will particularly inform you of the Af­fection I have now, and will still preserve for your Lordship, which is so great that neither Absence nor Time shall ever cause the least Alteration in it. At present I shall only conjure you to repair your Fortifications with all possible Expedition; and so soon as they are in such a Condition, that your Presence will be less necessary where you are, than it is at present, I am of opinion it will be highly expedient for you to visit the Mareschal de la Force's Army, where, without que­stion, it will be very advantageous. After which I hope we shall be so happy as to see you shortly in your Frontier. In the mean time, assure your self, I beseech you, that no Man can be more than I am,

I earnestly beg of you before your Departure to the Army, to leave such good Orders behind you, that there may be no danger of a Surprize.

LETTER XIX. To the Duke of Hallwin.

I Have receiv'd your Letter, together with a Memorial of what things you judge to be necessary at Narbonne. In answer to which, finding by your Account that there are no more than fourscore thousand weight of Powder in that Place, of which there are eight thousand weight spoil'd; and that there are sixty thousand in Tolouse, fit for use, I judge it expedient for you to take one half of that, and get it carried thither as soon as possible. Monsieur d' Arpajon has like­wise sent me Word, that there are not above six or seven hundred Bullets, so you'll find it expedient to cause to be cast in the neighbouring Places, so many as may make 'em up six thousand of all the Sizes of the Pieces there. As for your Provisions, if there is the least Appearance that the City will be besieg'd, in such a case you must seize all the Cattle that are in the Country, that you may have Vi­ctuals sufficient.

Above all, 'tis necessary that you shou'd have fifty thousand weight of Powder, thirty or forty thousand weight of Lead, fifty thousand of Match, six thousand Bullets, Corn sufficient for a Year; and if, besides all this, any thing more be wanting, 'tis generally to be found in such Cities as that, which are never unprovided of such things which are of necessary use to 'em. I desire you to take care to see all this perform'd, and be assur'd that I am, and ever will be,

LETTER XX. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

THE Sieur Ferrier being gone to visit the Mareschal de la Force from the King, about an Affair which he will communicate to you, I thought my self oblig'd to inform you by him, what his Majesty's Thoughts are in relation to your self, I mean about the commanding of his Troops, which he order'd to meet about Langres. You must know then, he's so perfectly satisfy'd, not only with your Affection to the Prosperity of his Affairs, but with your Merit and Experience, that of his own proper Motion he form'd this Resolution, not judging it fit that a Person of your Condition shou'd remain in his Army without Authority. I am so much the more pleas'd at the choice he has made of your self upon this Occasion, because it will give you an Opportunity to discover your Worth to the World every Day more and more, and I am assured you will fully answer the Opinion and Confi­dence that has been always repos'd in you. In the mean time I desire you to depend upon my Affection as fixt and immoveable to you: No Man living more esteems you, or wishes your Happiness with greater Zeal than my self, who am,

P. S. You will do well to consider deliberately what to enterprize with the Army that you are to com­mand. The Sieur Ferrier will tell you how many different Thoughts we have had of that Matter here. If we cou'd but beat Monsieur de Lorrain with the Troops that the Mareschal de la Force commands in those Parts, then we ought to em­ploy [Page 21] the above-mention'd Army in the Affair that Colonel Hebron and I talked about at Compeigne. We expect the return of the aforesaid Ferrier, to know whether we must reinforce Monsieur de la Force only with Horse, or Horse and Foot to­gether.

LETTER XXI. To the same.

THE Bearer hereof will acquaint you with more than I thought convenient to commit to Writing, the Ways being neither free nor safe. Only this I will assure you, that in whatsoever Place, or whatsoever Con­dition I happen to be, I am, and ever shall be, as much as you can desire me,

LETTER XXII. To the Mareschals de Châtillon, and de Brezé.

AS I cannot sufficiently express to you how much the King is satisfy'd with the Service you have lately done him in the management of his Army, and in the Battle you have fought with the Enemy, so 'tis as impossible for me to describe to you my own Joy in particular, at the great Advantage we have gain'd, and the Glory you have acquir'd by so gallant an Action. [Page 22] I can assure you that this happy Success has but answered his Expectation, who always promis'd himself a Victory equal to what you have gain'd, from the Goodness of God, the Justice of his Cause, and from your Courage and Prudence. He has commanded a publick Thanksgiving to God, to whom we must at­tribute so great and so considerable a Victory. The King does not question but that you'll continue to act for his Service upon all Occasions that shall present themselves for the future, as well as you have hitherto done, which has given him all the Satisfaction imagina­ble, as you'll find more particularly by his Dispatches; to which referring my self, I shall conclude this, with assuring you of the Continuance of my Affection, and that I am,

P. S. Since this Dispatch was shut up, we have re­ceiv'd Advice, that the Mareschal de la Force, af­ter he had encamped four Days within Cannon­shot of Duke Charles's Army, during which they had perpetual Skirmishes on both sides, has at last oblig'd the aforesaid Army to retire, with the loss of nine hundred Men upon the Spot, four hundred Prisoners, and a great deal of Baggage, without the loss on our part of above twenty, com­prehending the slain as well as wounded in the Number.

LETTER XXIII. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

I Cannot sufficiently either praise or blame you for your manner of managing your self where now you are, and exposing your Person to all Hazards, as we hear you do. The Abbot of Coursan, who will part from hence within a Day or two, has a great deal more to tell you from me. In the Interim rest assured that no Man living is more sincerely than I am,

P. S. I conjure you to have a care of your self, and engage Monsieur de la Force, as much as you can, to make the best Advantage of the Victory which God has given to his Majesty's Arms, by dri­ving, if possible, Duke Charles on t'other side the Rhine, now Feuquieres and Bellefonds have joyn­ed him. Commissary Rose is gone to conferr with Monsieur de la Force.

LETTER XXIV. To the same.

I Have order'd the Abbot of Coursan, whom the King has sent to the place where now you are, to communi­cate his Instructions intirely to you. Continue, I beseech you, to manage Affairs so as may be most advantageous [Page 24] to his Majesty's Service. If we cou'd beat Duke Charles beyond the Rhine, or lock him up in some commodious Place, so that he cou'd not come back to the Franche-Comté, we might soon expect to see the happy effects of it, nor shou'd you be without a considerable share in them. Let me prevail with you to continue in the Ar­my where you are, till such time as you see what can be done against the aforesaid Duke, with the Re-inforce­ment of the Sieur de Feuquieres, and that of Bellefonds. 'Tis of no small importance to beat the Iron while 'tis hot upon this Occasion, not only for the great Conster­nation the Enemy is in, but because 'tis to be feared that Duke Bernard wont let you have the Germans long, but will call them home. If once Duke Charles were beaten, or retir'd beyond the Rhine, I wou'd desire you to come hither with all speed, that you might receive a more ho­nourable Post in the Army, whither I find your Incli­nation carries you.

While you tarry where you are, I conjure you not to expose your Person, as you have too often done. Ex­cuse me if I tell you, your Honour does not require, and the King's Service cannot suffer it. Besides these Considerations, the Passion I have for you, as well as my own Interest, constrains me to tell you, that you cannot more sensibly oblige me, than by altering this Method.

Tho' the Victory which it pleased God to give the King in Flanders, may possibly have arriv'd to you al­ready by common Report, yet I thought my self oblig'd to communicate this good News to you, knowing what an extraordinary Joy it will give you, as well for the Reputation that his Majesty, as for the Glory that your Friends have acquir'd by it.

Above five thousand of the Enemy fell upon the place, fifteen hundred were wounded, and thirteen hundred taken Prisoners, among whom is the Count de la Feire, Governour of the Citadel of Antwerpe, and Lieutenant-General of the Army; Don Alonce Ladron, Mestre de Camp of a Spanish Regiment; Sfondrate, Mestre de Camp of an Italian Regiment; the Count de Willerval; and several others of Quality, with a great number of Officers: They have lost sixteen Pieces of Cannon, which is all they had; and all their Baggage; which is so much the more considerable, because, as 'tis said, there were two Waggons full of Money, fifty or sixty Colours or Flags. There goes a flying Report, that Prince Thomas is slain, [Page 25] and the Count d Bucquoy wounded in this Action; but this wants a farther Confirmation.

The King has not lost above fifty Men in this Acti­on, among whom there is but one Captain, and some other Officers; and an hundred and fifty wounded; which renders this Victory the more compleat.

The Army of the Enemies was compos'd of six­score and ten Regiments of Foot, and fifty Troops of Horse, that were the best they had.

This is all I had to communicate to you in this Let­ter, referring my self for the rest to the Abbot of Cour­san, who will assure you that his Majesty is in good Health, and that I am with all imaginable sincerity,

I have perused what you sent me, concerning la Cou­dargis and Valin, whom I shall remember. Pray remember me to Monsieur de Turenne, and assure him of my hearty Affection to him. When you come into these Parts, we will consider of the best Methods how to serve him.

You may if you please, acquaint the Gentleman, who married the Lady of Montpellier, that I am extremely well satisfy'd with his Deportment up­on the Occasion you writ to me about. No Body has spoken a Word to the King to his Disadvantage, as I find by your Letter he seem'd to apprehend.

I Add these few Lines to the Letter I writ to you this Morning, to tell you, that being inform'd from good Hands, that you frequently do things which your Quality and Condition ought by no means to permit; You must excuse me, if I conjure you to remember that a Person in your Station may very well discharge the part of a General, without running the hazard of a pri­vate [Page 26] Musqueteer. Once more therefore, I beg of you to be determin'd in this Affair by the best of your Friends, and most faithful of your Servants,

LETTER XXV. To the Duke of Hallwin.

FInding by several of your Dispatches, how desirous you are to fight the King's Enemies in your Fron­tier, I take this Occasion to acquaint you, that his Ma­jesty is not displeased at your Proposal, provided you don't engage his Arms and Reputation unadvisedly, and that you attempt nothing, the Success whereof is not only certain, but wholly advantageous to the Prospe­rity of his Affairs. For I don't think it by any means adviseable for you to take the Towns, Villages, and o­ther unfortify'd places that lie near you; since besides that 'tis impossible to keep them, such a Procedure wou'd oblige the Enemies to retaliate the same upon us, and so fatigue our Troops, that in case any important Action shou'd happen, we shou'd certainly come by the worst of it. If I were not well acquainted with your Pru­dence and Judgment, I shou'd write a great deal more to you upon this Subject, but that were to call both of 'em into question, since I am satisfy'd no Man knows better than your self, what may be useful or disadvan­tageous to his Majesty's Service in the Quarters where now you are.

In a Word, Sir, if you find your self in a Condition to take any place of importance, I wou'd advise you to attempt it; but unless you have some notable Ad­vantage in prospect, I think it will be your best way not to begin a War in your parts, from which you may receive as much good as harm.

Monsieur de la Urilliere has sent you so particular an Account of every thing that has happen'd here, that nothing remains for me to say, but to assure you [Page 27] of the continuance of my Affection to you, and that I am, and ever will be,

LETTER XXVI. To the Mareschal de Châtillon.

LOng before I receiv'd your Letter, wherein you give me an account of the Battel between our and the Spanish Army, I had rejoyc'd with you and Monsieur de Brezé, for the Victory which God was pleas'd to give his Majesty upon this Occasion, not only for the Glory and Reputation which France will derive from this good Success, but likewise for the Honour you have hereby acquir'd, the increase of which I no less passionately desire, than your self can do. It lies in your Power still to draw the best Advantages from so glorious a Victory; but you need not be reminded of doing that, for I doubt not but that every thing will be perform'd, which your Prince may expect from your Prudence, from your Affection, and good Conduct. One of the most effectu­al means, in my Opinion, to bring this about to the ad­vantage of his Majesty's Affairs, will be for Monsieur de Brezé and you to live in so perfect an Union and In­telligence, that nothing may be ever able to alter it. Besides the Service of the King, who requires you to keep a good understanding among your selves, you will also answer my Prayers, who desire the same of you; and indeed 'tis so visibly the Interest of you both to live after this manner, that I am satisfy'd neither of you will omit any thing that may contribute to so good an End. I have writ to the Sieur de Brezé upon this Sub­ject, and am mightily mistaken if he will not do every thing on his side that can be expected from him.

Once more I conjure you and Monsieur de Brezé, to live together in the best Understanding that may be, because otherwise his Majesty's Affairs will receive a conside­rable Prejudice by it. By some of the Enemy's Letters, which we intercepted, we find they don't a little depend upon the Division that, as they pretend, has hitherto ap­pear'd between you, and that they flatter themselves with hopes of reaping great Advantages by your not agreeing. They likewise make mention that you and Monsieur de Brezé have refus'd to take Orders from the Prince of Orange, which I cannot believe, since 'tis one of the Articles agreed upon in our Treaty. Pray send me an Account of this, and of all memorable Passages that happen in your Parts, and be assur'd that I am as much as it is possible for any one to be,

LETTER XXVII. To the Cardinal de la Vallette.

SEnding the Bearer hereof to the Messieurs de la Force, to condole with them for the Loss of Madam the Mareschal's Lady, I was willing to acquaint you by the same Opportunity, in what Condition I am at present, least the News of my illness shou'd give you any inquietude.

The Distemper I had at Bourdeaux is now come to visit me the third time, and in the same place, but with this difference, that it is not accompany'd with the same Accidents that attended the two first. I was lanced yesterday about five a Clock in the Afternoon, which was very painful to endure; but with this good Success, that within a Moment after the Operation was over, I found extraordinary Ease. So that at present I am free [Page 29] of my great Pains, and hope in a little time to be per­fectly cur'd. Let this set you fully at ease, for God be prais'd, the danger is over. I have writ so particularly to you by the Abbot of Coursan, that I have no more to send you, but the Continuance of my Affection and Ser­vice, and that I am with all sincerity,

LETTER XXVIII. To the Mareschal de Chastillon.

THE Messieurs de Charnacé, and d'Espenan, will give you so particular an Account of what Resolutions the King has taken, upon the Account of their Journey, and the Condition in which they found Affairs in these Quar­ters, that I need not give my self the trouble to say any thing concerning them: For which reason I shall con­tent my self with telling you, that his Majesty having occasion for Persons of your Merit and Consideration, to act in several places, desires you will immediately repair to him upon the receipt of his Orders. I have no more at present, but to assure you that I am with all sin­cerity,

LETTER XXIX. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

J Am extremely pleas'd with your giving Galasse the slip, as well because 'tis for the King's Service, as for your own Glory in particular. I hope from your Con­duct all that may be expected from a Person who has Zeal and Application joyn'd to his great Abilities; and I promise you that nothing in my power shall be want­ing, to make the King's Armies under your Administra­tion, leave off their old Licentious Habitudes, and be brought under good Discipline, as they ought to be. To effect this, great Vigour must be shewn on your part, it being utterly impossible without that to bring Matters to such a pass, as you and I desire they shou'd be, for our Prince's Service. You will find by the ex­emplary Punishment which his Majesty inflicted on a hundred and fifty Officers that absented themselves from the Army in Lorrain, that there is no other way to re­medy Disorders but this. This Severity will most as­suredly be continu'd, and indeed without it all will be lost. In the Name of God, never pardon any of your Deserters, but make remarkable Examples of them. One single Instance will make you dreaded as long as you live, and put you in a way to be thought Merciful ever after.

I have already sent you Word, that for the future you shall be abundantly supply'd with Bread. To con­vince you of that, I promise you that Nancy and Metz shall never be without sufficient Magazines.

As our Forces encrease every day, it will be much easier to make such good provision for our Convoys, of Corn, and other Necessaries, that our Carriages may be no longer incommoded.

Our four thousand Dragoons are arrived, besides 1700 more that are to be sent to you, and a thousand to Mon­sieur de la Force. Five hundred of them are quarter'd at Toul, to secure the above-mention'd Carriages, and ano­ther [Page 31] five hundred in other places, that were judg'd the most important.

If you have occasion for no more Troops than what you have already with you, which I cannot believe, considering what a necessity you have for Provisions, we are of opinion that out of the remainder of those that are design'd for you, a small Body shou'd be form'd at Metz, to clear all those places that annoy your Carriages, and particularly Cirk. For this end Bellefonds is sent to Metz, to receive two or three Regiments that you want, and all the Dragoons that are design'd for you, as also Canillas, who is in Burgundy, and the remainder of the Horse, which you are to have, that with these Forces he may possess himself of that troublesome place, that has so long incommoded you. If you believe that some other Design may turn to better Account, 'tis but send­ing word to the above-mention'd Sieur de Bellefonds, and he will follow your Orders.

On the Twentieth of this Month, the Messieurs de An­goulesme and de la Force will be reinforc'd with Matig­non's Regiment of Horse, and above 2500 Gentlemen. Besides this, we shall have at Langres, a Body of eight hundred Horse, and a thousand Dragoons, to hinder the Enemy's Insults on that side. The Levies of the Swit­zers are compleated. We are raising twenty Regi­ments, and four thousand Horse, as I have sent you Word already; and besides this, we are going to raise two thousand Horse of new Cavalry, which you writ to me about, that will only carry a Cuirass, a Helmet to cover the Cheeks and Nose, a Carabine, and a Pistol; and I believe we shall call them the Hungari­an Cavalry, unless Monsieur Hebron gives us a better Name. There is no question but we shall have Forces enough; all the difficulty will be to employ them well. Endeavours will be us'd on one side, to beat back the Duke of Lorrain. As for you, My Lord, I don't doubt but you will do what impossible. The King has not order'd what you are to do, but has that good Opinion of your Prudence and Conduct, that he leaves you to act at your own Discretion; for he knows you will weigh every thing deliberately, before you take the last Reso­lutions.

Monsieur Servien has sent you a very large Letter, which will excuse me from running into farther Par­ticulars. [Page 32] I can only assure you of the continuance of my Service and Affection to you, who am; and ever will be, without the least Alteration,

LETTER XXX. To the same.

SInce I writ you a Letter some five or six Days ago, which you will receive by this Packet, I have re­ceiv'd yours by Monsieur de Cressia. I cannot express to you how overjoy'd I am at the Success of your Journey. I on­ly hope the End will prove as lucky as the Beginning.

Monsieur Boutheillier will fully answer you as to all you can expect from him. The King reposes so entire a Con­fidence in your Affection, your Judgment, and Prudence, that he leaves you wholly at Liberty, to act as you shall see convenient.

I here send you the Ordinance his Majesty has made against the Officers that absent themselves from their re­spective Posts in the Army which is now in Lorrain, un­der the command of the Messieurs d' Angoulesme, and de la Force. Pray publish it in your own Army, where, I conjure you, to continue to punish those that are wanting in their Du­ty; for 'tis evident that under our present Circumstances, nothing will make a General to be rever'd, and capable of doing the King's Business, but a steady Hand, and impar­tial Severity. I can assure you that his Majesty will not spare the most cunning of them all; and 'tis necessary that those who command his Armies, shou'd do the same. God be thanked, his Majesty is in good Health. As for my self, I am, and ever will be,

LETTER XXXI. To the same.

YOu'll find, that as soon as you gave us to understand by your Dispatches, that you desir'd the rest of th [...] Troops, that were design'd for you, to come up and joyn you, we quitted our design of besieging Cirk, that so they might immediately march to joyn your Army. I will not trouble my self to send you more Particulars, which will be sent to you from the Secretaries of State. Only this I will tell you, that the King is resolv'd to go in Person into Lorrain. Before his Departure, the Mes­sieurs d' Angoulesme, and de la Force, will be strengthen'd with the addition of above 4500 Gentlemen. The King will be at St. Dizier on the sixth of September, at the Head of 15000 Foot, and 3000 Horse, besides the above-mention'd Troops. If by that time the Duke of Lorrain is beaten back, his Majesty designs to march as far as Metz, to sup­port and back you. Thus, I hope every thing will suc­ceed according to our Desires. His Majesty being sen­sible of your Prudence and Loyalty, leaves you at full Liberty to act as you shall judge most expedient. I have no more at present, but that I shall be eternally,

LETTER XXXII. To the Duke of Hallwin.

NOT being able to find among my Papers, the Draughts of Perpignan, Barcelona, and Salces, I write you this Letter, to desire you to send them to me, and withal, take care they be as true as is possible. I shou'd be very glad to know whether some Attempt might not be made against Perpignan, and the means how to carry it on, so as to have a prospect of Success. You'll meet with several People in the Frontiers, that can instruct you particularly in these Matters: As for Instance, about the Ways through which your Cannon and other Provisions are to pass; as also about the true State of the Place, the Number of Men in Garrison there, and what quanti­ty of Victuals and Ammunition they have. In a Word, gather the best Informations you can, and send them to me by the first Post; so that upon these Directions we may see what is fit to be undertaken there for his Majesty's Service. In the mean time rest assured that I am,

LETTER XXXIII. To the Cardinal de la Vallette.

I Am exceedingly surpriz'd at what you tell me in yours, dated the 23d. of August, viz. that you had not recei­ved several Letters which I sent to you by the Couriers. I can assure you, that not one has parted from this place, but I did my self the honour to write to you by him. I cannot tell whether I must lay the blame upon them, or the Secretaries of State, to whom for the most part I give my Letters. All imaginable Care has been taken here, to reinforce your Troops; but the Enemy is so considerably increas'd on the side of the Duke of Lor­rain, that having form'd two considerable Bodies, one of which being commanded by Leinon, they have thrown into S. Michel, and other places near you, it was judged necessary to employ part of the Re-inforcement design'd for your self, to compose a second Body, in order to go and meet with Leinon. So soon as they have either routed, or driven him back, you shall be recruited with a Dozen Troops of Horse, and a Thousand Dragoons.

Five Regiments likewise will be sent to Metz, to strengthen you; but because they are new-rais'd Men, and 'tis to be fear'd that the greatest part of them will Desert, I leave it to your Consideration whether it will be the best way to make them march as far as your Quar­ters, or rather to keep them at Metz, to be employ'd in case of necessity, with six thousand Switzers, that are to keep the Field.

The King is gone in Person to the Frontiers of Lorrain, to carry on the War more vigorously against Duke Charles, and Leinon. This is all at present from,

LETTER XXXIV. To the same.

'TIS impossible to tell you how overjoy'd I was at the News of your marching near us, when you cou'd do nothing at a greater distance, and that you have made so glorious a Retreat, that you beat the Enemy. Knowing how negligent and careless People generally are, I have sent Monsieur de Mande, whose active Temper you must needs be acquainted with, to gather all the Corn he can find in the Country, for your Subsistence. His Majesty has sent you two thousand Horse, and four thousand Foot. I can assure you, that I desire to be carried thither, not only for the Benefit I may receive by such a Journey, but for the Satisfaction of going to serve you my self in Person, since no Man honours you more than he, who is, and ever will be,

LETTER XXXV. To the same.

I Want Terms to express my Joy for your safe and happy Return: It wou'd be entire, were it not for a Loss I have lately sustain'd, which troubles me more than I am able to tell you. If I cou'd redeem those for whom I now complain, I wou'd readily do it, tho' at my own Expence. I will heartily pour out my Pray­ers to God for them, and serve them in all their Affairs as far as I am able. I desire you to take care that my Companies don't desert, particularly that of Light-Horse, which at present is without an Officer to command them: Being resolv'd to do nothing without the King's Will and Approbation, I have sent to him for fresh Instru­ctions. In the mean time, I must tell you, that my Opi­nion wholly agrees with yours. I am overjoy'd to hear where you are, and shall be more so, when I have an Opportunity to convince you by my Actions, that I am,

LETTER XXXVI. To the same.

I Sent you a long Letter since your arrival at Court, upon the Subject of the Treaty we are going to con­clude with Duke Bernard, to which I expect your An­swer, knowing that if my Letter does not find you with the King, yet Monsieur de Chavigny will bring it to your Hands.

I cannot forbear to testifie to you, once more my great Regret for the Death of the Sieur de Moüy, poor Cahuzac, and Londigny: As soon as I heard of it, I resolved to bestow my Company of Light-Horse upon the Sieur de Biscaras. I am mightily pleas'd that upon this Occa­sion my Opinion happens to jump with yours. I have not as yet dispos'd of the Colours. As I cannot bethink my self of a fit Person for that Post, such a one as I [Page 39] cou'd desire; if you know one of extraordinary bravery, let me beg of you to send me his Name, and I will think farther of it. I must likewise desire you to send me word with all Secresie, so that no Body may know a Word of the Matter, whom of the Company you judge most proper for me, with the good liking of the test, to make my Quarter-Master. I will enquire on my side, but dispose of nothing till I have receiv'd your Answer. I give you a thousand Thanks for the News you sent me from Court.

The Bishop of Mande, whom I dispatch'd to Metz, to buy up all the Corn he cou'd find thereabouts, for the subsistence of your Army, will be here in a short time, and acquit himself of this Charge, I am well assured, with great Care and Diligence. Whatever Summs of Money he may want to pay for the aforesaid Corn, shall be punctually remitted to him.

The hearty Zeal which you express for the King's Service, and the great Judgment which God has given you, will so well direct you to choose what will be most advantageous to us in the present Occasions, that I think it not necessary to spend any more Words upon an Ar­gument you are so well acquainted with. However, if you please to inform me what Measures you design to take, I will soon let you know my Sentiments of them.

Great Affairs are always attended with great Difficul­ties; but with God's assistance, we'll keep up our Cou­rage still. Every thing goes well in Italy and the Valto­line. One lucky hit against Duke Charles, where we might have done much greater Matters than we have, wou'd have placed us above the feeble Efforts of our Adversaries. I hope we shall manage Matters on that side with more Success for the future, than hitherto we have found. I am satisfy'd that for your Part, you will continue to act as you have begun, that is to say, as well as 'tis possible for a Man to behave himself, or for us to wish.

Pray let me know after what manner you liv'd with the Cardinal of Savoy. There were some at Rome that gave him the Title of Highness; and there were others that deny'd it. He desir'd that my Brother wou'd give him that Title, but answer was made, that he wou'd live with him as he had done for the time past, and after your Example. For this reason I long to know [Page 40] after what manner you treated him, and hope you'll do me the Honour to satisfie me about it. I am till Death,

LETTER XXXVII. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

THE Sieur Ferrier is gone to wait upon you with a Month's Pay for the Cavalry of your Army, be­sides that which you lately made. We do every thing in the World here to support you, provided you cou'd but make an Advantage of it, as you desire, but the laziness and inconstancy of the French is such, that a Man can promise no mighty Matters from them.

Monsieur de Bullion sends you thirty thousand Livres, that you may have a particular Fund to serve you upon all Emergencies, and yet not be oblig'd to give an Ac­count how 'tis expended, to any one.

I thank you for the great care you have taken of my Companies. I have sent the Sieur de Biscaras to them, who receiv'd two thousand Crowns of me; one half of which is to be distributed among my Troop of Light-Horse, and the other among that of the Gendarms, by the Sieur de Locmaria. I have been this long while enqui­ring for some experienc'd Officers to place at the Head of them, which has given me some trouble; but I hope now to find such as will be proper for my purpose, and then I will put all in good order without delay.

I have a Company here at hand, which the King gave me leave to raise by the Sieur de Potiniere, whom I order'd about two Days ago, to march directly towards your [Page 41] Quarters, that you might have no reason to complain of the Diminution of my Companies. However, if you find them in such a Condition, that part of them will serve you turn, your may dispose of them as you see con­venient.

The Sieur Ponica is arriv'd, but I have not seen him yet: We will treat with him the most advantageously for our selves, that we can. 'Tis certain that some Ger­man Horse will be necessary for us; but the difficulty will be where to get them.

Monsieur Bouthilliers has sent me an account what Com­plaints you make of Bellefonds: No doubt but the King will give you all the Satisfaction you can expect in that Matter.

I am sorry to find by you, that the King's Companies are in such ill Order. At the same time I am pleased that you are so well satisfy'd with the Regiment of Guards, and with the News you sent me about the Sieur Savignac.

I am likewise well pleased to hear what Monsieur de Turenne has perform'd, in relation to the Castles which he took by your Order. I don't question but he will disco­ver his great Merits upon all occasions.

Don't be afraid, I beg it of you, to be too severe, for 'tis almost impossible for you to trespass in that kind. The King's Affairs are in so perplexed a Condition, that 'tis a Chimoera to go to rectifie them without Rigour. I desire you to send me good verbal Processes against all those that have abandon'd the Army, that I may see them accordingly punish'd. If you condemn Vezilly, as you send me word you will, I'll take care to have your Sen­tence put in execution. The Sieur Ferrier will entertain you so particularly about all that has happen'd here, that at present I need only subscribe my self,

LETTER XXXVIII. To the same.

YOU will find by the King's Dispatches, which the Sieur de la Cour-d'Argis will shew you, what his Ma­jesty's Sentiments are upon the occasion of his Journey. I have sent you a Memorial by him of my Thoughts at present, by which you will perceive that the King does not positively order you to give Battle, but in that matter he wholly leaves you to your own Liberty. 'Tis certain that as one unfortunate Event wou'd throw our Affairs into a great Disorder, so a compleat Victory wou'd be of mighty advantage to us: And so much do I relie upon your Courage, your Prudence, your Zeal for the Service of the King, and your generous Ambition to answer the expectation of your Friends, that I promise my self every thing from your Conduct. We have put up publick Supplications to God in all the Convents of Paris, to implore a Blessing upon his Ma­jesty's Arms. I give you a thousand thanks for the good advice you gave me, which I received as a fresh Proof of your Affection to my Interests. I send you no News by this Bearer, because he is urgent to depart, only I will tell you, that the King arriv'd here yesterdy in good Health. His Majesty has sent the Count de Gramail to the Bastile, because he was one of those who instead of advancing his Affairs, was a means of keeping them back. There are abundance of other ill-favour'd Particulars, that I cannot send you an account of now, but we will discourse of them sometime or other at your leasure. In the mean time, I beseech you to believe that no Man li­ving esteems and loves you better than my self, and that I am, and ever will be, with all sincerity,

The Superintendants have sent you by the Sieur Ferrier, a Month's Pay for your Cavalry, and a particular Fund for your private Expences.

LETTER XXXIX. To the Duke of Halwin.

AFter having seen all your Dispatches, and the Ad­vices you sent to me, I cannot sufficiently com­mend you for the great Care you have taken to put all the Diocesses in Languedoc in a condition to oppose the Ene­my, in case they have a design to attempt any thing on that side.

I am clearly of opinion, that you cannot make too much haste to summon the Nobility of the Country, and the Companies of Gendarms belonging to you and Mon­sieur d' Ambres, to appear. I likewise think 'twill be ab­solutely necessary for you to put those two Regiments for which you receiv'd Commissions, on foot with all the speed you can.

Monsieur de Bullion will send you what Money you have occasion for, to raise the Levies. Monsieur de la Vriliere has engag'd himself to procure you that Order.

I shall shortly send the Sieur de Rentiere again to you, with my advice upon all Matters you think fit to sig­nifie to him. In the mean time, I conjure you to pro­vide for all those places in your Province, upon which you believe the Enemy may have any design; for in such cases a Man had infinitely better do too much than too little, for fear of a Surprizal. In a Word, I persuade my self that you'll omit nothing that may be expected from your Diligence and Loyalty to the King. This is the reason why I say no more to you upon this Chapter, con­tenting my self to assure you that I am with all sin­cerity,

LETTER XL. To the same.

I Have again dispatch'd the Sieur de Rentiere to you with all speed, to acquaint you that we have seized a Let­ter from the King of Spain, directed to the Cardinal In­fant, wherein he tells him in express Terms, that were it not for the War of Italy, he had before this made a Descent upon Languedoc, and that he employs all his Ef­forts to carry on that Design. Besides these general Terms, when he comes to Particulars, he plainly says that he is resolv'd to surprize Mazeres.

To prevent this Design, you are order'd immediately upon the receipt of this, to put the two Regiments on foot for which you have receiv'd Commissions, and rea­dy Money is sent to you to defray your Charges in rai­sing them; and since the Passes of Col Saint-Louis, and Col de Terneres are the only two places through which they Enemy can come towards Mazeres and Saverdan, you must dispatch some Forces with all expedition to seize and fortifie them.

Now because 'tis impossible to keep Col de Terneres any other way but by fortifying Forcereal in the Enemy's Country, and Col de las-Batailles in ours, you must seize the above-mention'd Col de las-Batailles, and fortifie it; and the King will impower you to surprize Forcereal, and fortifie it, provided you are able to keep it, as the Sieur de Rentiere proposes it feasible.

His Majesty likewise gives you power to possess your self of Aupoulx; which place the aforesaid Sieur de Ren­tiere tells us, may be easily gain'd; and when once in our Possession, so easie to be kept, that 'tis impossible for all the Force of Spain to wrest it out of our Hands.

I am apt to believe that these two Designs cannot well miscarry, provided they are put in execution with speed and secresie. Besides the Sieur de Rentiere, whom we have trusted with this Matter, no Man living has the least knowledge of it; and in the Country it will [Page 45] be easie enough to keep it secret, by pretending that all these Preparations you make are for the Defence and Pre­servation of your Frontier, which the Enemy has pub­lickly threaten'd to attack.

As for Mazeres, when you are upon the Spot, you'll be able to judge whether it will be more expedient to put that place in a posture of Defence against an Army that can come none of the strongest out of Spain, or to raze it more than it is at present.

My Opinion is, that it will be our best way to guard the Passes thro' which the Enemy must march to visit us, and publickly to take notice that we are inform'd of their Designs. Upon this, in all probability, they will not attempt to put them in execution; or if they shou'd, the Passes being sufficiently guarded, and the Country in Arms, they must unavoidably fail in their Undertaking.

However, if you shou'd not think this sufficient, omit nothing that you believe may be serviceable to your Af­fairs, and for that effect, visit all places in Person. To execute what has been hinted to you above, you'll have four Regiments, two of which are on foot already, and t'other two must be rais'd with all imaginable diligence; besides your Company of Gendarms, that of Light-Horse of the Sieur de Merinville, that of the Gendarms of Monsieur d'Am­bres, which must speedily be equipp'd, and the two Com­panies of Carabine-Cuirassiers, which you may likewise raise in a short time; and so soon as you send us word that they are raised, care shall be taken to send you a Fund to pay for the raising of them. As for Subsistence, you must find some way or other to make them live upon the Frontier; which will be no difficult matter to do when Forecereal is once in your Hands, since there are abundance of fertile Vallies all about it.

'Tis your business to take care to put into all your Gar­risons, that you think worth the keeping, Men of Reso­lution and Capacity to defend them, otherwise you'll have the Mortification to see your Endeavours blasted. Leave nothing unattempted that will contribute to carry on this Design, that so the King may receive that Satisfaction from it which he expects, and your self the Honour which I de­sire you may find; as being with all sincerity,

LETTER XLI. To the Duke of Hallwin.

THE King sending into Languedoc the Baron de Meslé and d'Agencourt, to whose Merit you are no Stran­ger; the first of whom is to assist and advise you in the pre­sent Occasions, and to serve under you in the Quality of Mareschal de Camp; and the second, to view the Con­dition of the chief places in your Government, and to confer with you about all such Matters as may be done for the Advantage of his Majesty's Service, and to serve in quality of Sergeant de Bataille; I thought my self ob­lig'd to send you advice of it by this Letter, that you might know what care his Majesty takes of all Affairs in your Quarters. They have both promis'd me to make all the haste they can, and as they have marked out their Stages, I believe they will be with you in fifteen Days at most. I have communicated to the above-men­tion'd Sieur d'Argencourt, in whom I repose an intire Confidence, the Design you saw in the Dispatch which I sent to you by the Sieur de Rentiere, the Summ and Substance of which is, to seize with all speed the Pas­ses of Col de Saint-Loüis, and Col de Terneres, which are the only places through which the Spaniards can come to attempt any thing upon us on the side of Mazeres, upon which they have a Design, as I have already inform'd you, and to get Possession of Force real and Col de las-Ba­tailles; which the aforesaid Sieur de Rentiere proposes as very feasible. So soon as he is arriv'd, you may examine every particular along with him, if you never gave your self the trouble to do it before. As there is a vast dif­ference between attempting upon an Enemy in his own Country, and barely hindering him from doing any thing in ours, by guarding the Passes through which they must march to annoy us, it concerns your Prudence to consider well what you undertake, to hazard nothing unadvisedly, and pursue no Designs but such as promise an infallible Success, and which you are able to main­tain. [Page 46] One of the principal things, in my opinion, which you have to do, is to be provided with good Spies, and to be faithfully inform'd from time to time, of the Countenance of your Enemies, and the number of their Troops, because upon these you may form your Reso­lutions, and advance or retard the execution of them as you shall see convenient.

If you are inform'd that they are not in a condition to attack you, or that they have other Designs, you may for some time defer the Execution of your Enterprizes, and in the mean time cause the two new Regiments, and the Horse, for which you have already receiv'd Or­ders, to be raised, that you may make your self more strong and considerable. But if you receive advice, that they are both able and willing to dispute it with you, you must take care to be before-hand with them, as well as your Forces will give you leave, without staying till your new Levies are got ready. After all, they can never hinder you from possessing your self of the Passes through which they must march with their Equipage into Languedoc, nor from keeping them still in your Hands, since you have the whole Country behind you open and free, which will furnish you abundantly with all Provisions. This is what I had to offer to you in this Letter, which I shall conclude, by assuring you of the Continuance of my Affection, and that I am with all sincerity,

LETTER XLII. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

I Take Pen in Hand to acquaint you, that 'tis his Maje­sty's pleasure, that in giving the seven Months Pay to the Troops of your Army, you shou'd casheer the Re­giments of Quincé, Chabrignac, Commarin, Chavignon, Ba­radat, Virville, and Cose, telling those that have a mind to serve his Majesty, that he'll take them into his Service by June next. In the mean time, that you may not loose the Men that remain in each of the Regiments you are to break, the King desires you to reduce them into two or three Companies each, which you must afterwards incor­porate with the Regiments of Nettancourt, Rebé, and others in your Army, that are to be made up compleatly twen­ty, giving them the Names of Provinces. There is ano­ther Expedient, which is to reduce the broken Regiments to two or three Companies each, according as they have more or less Men in them, and to keep them in indepen­dant Companies, to bestow them in the strong Places and Castles of Lorrain, where any Garrisons are to be left, that the several Regiments of which the Army is com­pos'd, may not be divided for the time to come. The chief matter will be to find good Officers, that will pre­serve the places where you post them, and not to fill them up with Fellows that have neither Wit nor Cou­rage, as it has been the way hitherto. I look upon this last Expedient to be better than the first. I desire you to make an Experiment of it speedily, before the return of this Bearer, whom we have on purpose dispatch'd to you, and to send us word by him what you have done.

As for the Cavalry, 'tis his Majesty's Intention that the Troops of Bouquinville, Sancourt, Choisy, and Bussy-de-Veyre, shou'd continue broken, except those that are desi­rous to mount again, and enter into Pay. You may ac­quaint them with it, that if they keep to this Resoluti­on, they may have time enough to prepare themselves.

I have already conjur'd you to send me a Copy of the Judgments you have passed against the Deserters of your Army; I beg the favour once more of you to do it, since 'tis of the last importance to the King's Service, to make Examples of such People. His Majesty has granted to the Officers of the Companies of Light-Horse, the Confiscation of those that have abandon'd them with­out leave. This will certainly oblige them to take more care for the future, to see them punish'd, and cause those Sentences to be executed that are passed against them.

I don't find there's any great probability of keeping on foot under the Title of a Regiment, that of Orelio, a­bout which you writ to me, it being reduc'd to an hun­dred, or sixscore Men at the most. All that can be done, in my Opinion, is to reduce it to a free Independant-Company, where all the Soldiers that are left, may be con­veniently dispos'd of.

Nor is there any more likelyhood that the Troops of Saint-Remy will be kept up, under the Name of a Regi­ment, since I can't see how 'tis possible for them to get again into Liege. The best thing that can be done for them, will be to reduce them to a Company of Light-Horse, under the same Pay with the rest of the Army.

I conjure you to dispatch without delay, the Officers that are nam'd by each Body of your Army, to gather Recruits, to come and receive their Money at Paris, and that afterwards they go about that Affair with all possi­ble Expedition, because they have no time now to lose. In the mean while be assured, that I am, and will be for ever,

LETTER XLII. To the same.

I Writ to you some seven or eight Days ago, to ac­quaint you how mightily the King was pleas'd at the Offer you made his Majeffy, to attempt by your self the Relief of some places in Alsatia; but now I take Pen in Hand, to express my satisfaction to you, that you are like to meet with fewer Difficulties there, than I durst have hoped for, as you will be more particularly inform'd by the Dispatch that Monsieur Servien has sent to you upon this Subject. I shall not trouble my self to give you an account of the late Advantage which Monsieur de Manicamp has had over the Enemy's Troops that were posted about Colmar, not doubting but that you heard of it before we did here. I will only tell you that he writ to the King, to acquaint him that we may without run­ning the least hazard, relieve Colmar, and the other Gar­risons in those Parts, with a much lesser number of Forces, than you make account to take along with you. I rely so much upon your Prudence and good Conduct, that I don't question in the least but that you'll happily accom­plish this Design, which is of so much importance to his Majesty's Affairs, and will give that Reputation and Honour to your self, as the most zealous of your Friends can wish for you, and particularly,

LETTER XLIII. To the same.

I Here send you the Letter which the Mareschal de la Force receiv'd from Monsieur de Manicamp, wherein you'll see how easie a Matter he represents it, to effect the Relief of Colmar. As this will give you greater En­couragement to undertake it, so it will hinder me from saying any more to you upon this Subject, but not from assuring you of the continuance of my Service and Af­fection to you, being with all sincerity,

LETTER XLIV. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

I Have not till now delay'd the doing of what I judged necessary to be done for the King's Service, and your own Satisfaction, in relation to the Brief which the Pope has written to you. We have made great Complaints of it to the Nuncio's; the Cardinal of Lyons, and the Ambassadors, have spoke of it with great Resentments to the Pope and his Nephews, not omitting any of those Reasons and Examples that use to be cited on such Occasions. Just now I come from talking about it with Monsieur Mazarini, who tells me, that the Answer they receiv'd from Rome, to the Letter they sent thither from the part of the King, was, that the Pope cou'd do no less. But however, that the Business [Page 52] shou'd go no farther. Whatever touches you will affect me more sensibly than even your self. This I beseech you to believe, and that I am in all reality,

LETTER XLV. To the Duke of Hallwin.

I Have read over the Letters and Memoirs which you sent me from time to time: In answer to which, I will tell you, that you have not sent me word what it is you principally desire to do. For which reason I beg of you to undertake nothing till you have first of all conferr'd with the Sieur d' Argencourt about it, so that he may judge in his turn, whether what you propose be practicable or no. But above all, take special care that as you have possessed and fortify'd the principal Passes, by which the Enemy can march to you, you don't let them come and attack you in others which you have not provided for; by which means they may force you to act on the defensive. As I promise my self no less from your Prudence than from your Courage, I am confident you will hazard nothing but where you have a very fair prospect of succeeding. For as in this case, a Diversion wou'd be very useful to us, if the Enemy attacked us powerfully in Languedoc, so otherwise it wou'd exceed­ingly prejudice his Majesty's Affairs. I will expect some News from you on this Head with great Impatience. In the Interim possess your self with an Assurance that I am, and always will be,

LETTER XLVI. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

J Need not tell how extremely satisfy'd the King was at your putting Provisions into the Towns of Alsatia, and what happen'd thereupon; nor how agreeable the News was to my self in particular, because you may ea­sily imagine both one and the other, as well by the Ad­vantage his Majesty's Affairs have receiv'd by it, as by the Affection I bear you, and the Part which I always take in whatever concerns you. I will only tell you, that this good Success did not deceive my Expectation, and that I always promised my self as much from your Zeal to the King, and from your Prudence and good Conduct. I say nothing to you concerning the Relief of Haguenau, because I am satisfy'd that if the thing is practicable, you will lose no Time nor Opportunity to effect it, and that you will undertake nothing but upon very good Grounds. I am sorry to find in your Letter that you are in such want of Money. I will employ all my Interest with the Superintendants to furnish you as soon as possible. In the mean time, don't be afraid to draw Bills of Exchange upon them, as often as you have occasion, to subsist your Troops, and to buy Corn, and other Provisions, which you may throw into Haguenau, and other places, upon the assurance I give you, that they shall pay your Bills without the least difficulty.

I am of opinion, it will be convenient not only to put the Governour of Benfield in hopes of receiving a Pension from the King, but likewise positively to assure him of it. You may relie upon me that it shall be paid him without Contradiction. I will not prescribe the particular Summ, but leave that wholly to your Di­scretion. Monsieur de Chavigny has sent you so large an Account of all that has happen'd in these parts, that nothing remains for me, but to conjure you to rest assured, that no Man loves you better than my self, [Page 54] as you will be satisfy'd the more occasions you give me, to convince you by the Effects, that I am with all sincerity,

P. S. The hopes I have of seeing you at your re­turn from Alsatia, hinders me from sending you a longer Letter.

LETTER XLVII. To the Duke of Hallwin.

I Send you this Letter to acquaint you, that we have receiv'd Advice, that the Naval Preparations which the Enemy is making at Barcelona, consisting of four flat­bottom'd Vessels, able to carry each of them twenty Pieces of Cannon, and two hundred Men, and some other small Vessels, are design'd to attack Brescon, which they pretend to batter near at hand, for which purpose their Vessels are flat-bottom'd, as I told you above. I won't pretend to instruct how to obviate this Storm, since having Mon­sieur d' Argencourt with you upon the Spot, you sit at the Fountain-Head of Expedients, by which you may pro­tect your selves from the Insults of the Enemy. I that am at a great Distance from the Place, imagine the best way will be to make good Parapets of Earth, that are Cannon-proof, upon the Rock; but this perhaps will prove somewhat difficult. However, you may be able with the help of a few Barks, to carry Earth enough thither. You may follow this Advice, if you think it convenient, but be assur'd that with the first fair Wea­ther, the Enemy will make some Attempt upon Bres­con, or some other place like it. A Man inform'd is worth two that are not. I am persuaded you'll keep your selves from being surpriz'd. Thus I remain,

LETTER XLIX. To the same.

SInce I writ you a Letter this Morning, upon the Sub­ject of Brescon, I receiv'd another from the Sieur d'Ar­gencourt, wherein he sends me word that the Fortificati­on that has been made about the Rock, being too low to put the place into a posture of Security, since 'tis but about nine Foot high, and six Foot thick, and that it will be necessary to raise the aforesaid Fortification or Com­pass of it, some nine Foot higher than it is, making in all three Pole in height, with a Parapet of six Poot a­bove; I thought fit, therefore, to add these few Lines to my Letter, to desire you to carry on these Works with all imaginable Diligence, that before the Enemy is in a Condition to put his Design upon this place in executi­on, it may be so well provided, that you need not ap­prehend any great Trouble from that Quarter. Let me request you to conferr about all these Matters with the Sieur d' Argencourt, follow carefully the Designs he gives you, and do nothing without his Advice. In the mean time rest assured that I am with all sincerity,

LETTER L. To the Cardinal de la Vallette.

I Receiv'd your Dispatch on the second of this Month, and read over the Accounts you sent me of the Af­fairs of Alsatia. I hope that your Arrival there will pre­vent all the Inconveniences that may happen on that side, and that you'll arrive soon enough at Haguenau, to pre­serve that place, and confirm the rest in the Affection they have hitherto testify'd for the King's Service. The Re­solution which the Duke of Weymar has taken up to follow you near at hand, will, in my opinion, not a little facili­tate the execution of your Design, especially if he posts himself in a place from whence he may readily joyn his Troops with yours, according to his Promise, whenever you have any occasion for them. For my part, I don't question but that he'll do all that lies in his power, to put himself in a condition to do us good Service.

The King is very well pleas'd with the Order you have given to Monsieur de Mande, to furnish his Troops with Corn, judging well that without this Provision, it wou'd be impossible for them to subsist, since the Country is intirely laid waste. His Majesty referrs himself whol­ly to you, to distribute Bread to those of his Army, as you shall find they have occasion for it, as you will see more particularly by the Letter of Monsieur de Noyers.

As for what relates to the Money which the Officers demand, so soon as the Month's Pay is adjusted, and paid off, as well to the old Troops, as to the Recruits, if there is any Overplus remaining, I am of opinion that you cannot employ it to better purpose than to pay off the aforesaid Officers two or three Months at least, whether it is their due or no. This is all I have to say to you in this Letter, which I shall conclude, by assuring you that I am, and shall be during my Life,

LETTER LI. To the same.

'TIS impossible for me to express to you the Joy we have had here, for the happy success of your Ex­pedition, and the Glory you have acquir'd to your self by it. I am persuaded you will augment it, whenever you find occasions to give you leave, till at last it ar­rives to such a Pitch as you and I desire.

I did not wait for the arrival of your Letters, to make a Provision for your Necessities, having borrow'd before­hand, upon the little Credit I have in the World, forty thousand Crowns for you to buy Corn to lay up at Haguenau, Colmar, and Schelstat, that those places being well provided, as 'tis requisite, they may be secur'd from all Inconveniences. I don't doubt but you'll husband the Money as well as you can, and wait the Harvest which is now near at hand, when you may buy it at a cheap rate, especially if the Soldiers will be got to work, when they have no Enemies to disturb them.

You will not take it ill, I am confident, that I have sent back my Company to you, which has already be­haved themselves very well under your Command, toge­ther with ten out of my Regiment, and others. I thought fit to re-inforce you with these Men, that you may employ them upon all occurrences, where you have occasion for them.

Having receiv'd advice that the Poles and Croats had crossed over to Thionville, to joyn Galasse, Orders were immediately dispatch'd to Monsieur the Prince, to send fifteen hundred Horse to Enchissen, to joyn you, that you might be in a condition to do something consi­derable.

The King has granted to Colonel Hebron the ransom of Meternick, and precedence to his Regiment before all the new ones of twenty Companies, that have been created since him.

I desire you to manage with good husbandry the forty thousand Crowns I have sent you to lay out in [Page 58] buying of Corn; so that with the Harvest, you may ex­pect, without any other Cost but that of cutting it, the Garrisons may be provided for two or three Years be­forehand; and if 'tis practicable, make the Governours give you a Certificate of the Corn which they have in their Towns.

Monsieur de Noyers will sollicit for a Month's Pay, which you writ to me about, that it may be sent to you in time.

I am concerned that the fifteen hundred Horse which we sent to you for the Franche-Comté, are not yet arriv'd; for I am of opinion, that you'll have an opportunity to do something worthy of your self this Summer.

You may be confident I will do you all the good Ser­vices I can, who am,

LETTER LII. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

THis Courrier going to wait upon you about a cer­tain Occasion which you'll find by the Dispatch of Mousieur de Noyers, that he will deliver to you, I cou'd not let him depart till I had given him this Letter, to assure you of the continuance of my Affection and Service, upon which you may certainly depend upon all Occasi­ons. It is so long ago since I receiv'd any News from you, that I protest to you, I have been in a great deal of Pain about it. You wou'd in a most particular manner oblige me to let me hear from you as your Occasions will permit, and to inform me of all the material Occur­rences that happen in your Parts. In the mean time rest assur'd that no Man living more esteems you, or is with more sincerity than I am,

LETTER LIII. To the same

I Can't express to you my great concern for the Death of poor Colonel Hebron, not only for the esteem I had of his Person, but for the Affection and Zeal he always testify'd for his Majesty's Service. His Loss has touch'd me in so lively and sensible a manner, that 'tis impossble for me to receive any Comfort. I don't question what you tell me in your Letter, that it has afflicted your self in par­ticular; for to say the Truth, he was a Gentleman that was very necessary to us at this Juncture. I have paid to his Memory all that lay in my power, to express my great value for him, ordering Prayers to be made to God for him, and assisting his Ne [...]hew with what he has oc­casion for, as if he were my own Relation. The Ran­som of Maternic is secur'd for him, and whatever is due to his Unkle, shall most punctually be paid to him. Sa­verne costs us exceeding dear, but we must patiently bear what pleases God.

We find it a matter of great perplexity upon whom to bestow the aforesaid Colonel's Regiment, be­cause his eldest Captain, who is related to him, is a Hugo­not, and the Catholicks earnestly petition to have it con­ferr'd upon one of their Party; among whom we find the Sieur Douglass, who is descended from one of the best Families in Scotland. In the mean time, nothing shall be resolv'd upon here, relating to this occasion, till we have receiv'd Advice from you, which we desire you to send by the first opportunity.

We have another Difficulty too upon our Hands, that gives us no less trouble, and that is, to find out for you a proper Mareschall de Camp, such a one as you want. The King willingly consents that you have Monsieur de Bussy; but him you cannot have soon enough. As for Monsieur de Rambure, he is sufficiently taken up with the business of his Place. So we have sent to you the Grand Provost in in this Quality, who is a Gentleman of very good Sense, [Page 60] great Courage, and sweetness of Temper. He will get together the Recruits of Foot and Horse that are in Lor­rain, to aid you to make some opposition to Offlans, who lies quarter'd on that side, with about some twelve hun­dred sorry Horse.

The King gives his consent that Saverne be put into the hands of the Duke of Weymar, provided he gives his pro­mise in Writing, to leave the Exercise of the Catholick Religion in that place, such as he finds it, without the least alteration. Altho' you are deliver'd from the fears of that Siege, it will concern you and the Duke to follow the most advantageous measures you can for the King's Service. If Galasse shou'd post himself any where, where you might have some notable Advantage over him, it wou'd be a great Blow; but I can scarce bring my self to believe any such thing can be done, till Dole is taken, which will happen, with God's assistance, according to your advices, by the end of this Month. You must take care that nothing incommode you in the Franche-Comté, but especially favour the Harvest in Alsatia. For the rest, his Majesty leaves you at full liberty, to take such Methods as you shall judge to be most expedient. If you please to acquaint us with them, we shall send you our Thoughts, without obliging you to follow them, or hin­dering you to execute what you shall think proper, till you have receiv'd our Answer.

After the Siege of Dole is over, and the King Master of the place, we will see what a Re-inforcement we can then send you; the present Posture of Affairs in these Parts not permitting us as yet to part with any of our Troops. We are providing to send you the second Months Pay, which you sollicit for, and that you may suffer no Disappointments of that nature, it shall be sent away to­wards the third or fourth of the next Month.

The Enemy have taken Capelle on the Coast of Picardy, because the Place made no manner of defence. We know the reasons that the Governour will alledge in his own Justification; but he has utterly forfeited the Expectation which the World had conceiv'd of him. As this is but a very small place, and of little importance, the loss of it is not considerable. Therefore let not this Matter give you any Pain at all, for I can assure you, that the For­ces we have in these parts, are more than sufficient, not only to hinder our Enemies from doing us any mischief, but likewise to take our Revenge upon them, if a fit Op­portunity [Page 61] presents it self. The King will not change his Designs of making the Army of the Franche-Comté act in these Quarters, but not yours, or that of the Duke of Weymar, pursuant to the first Resolutions that were taken in these Matters. Only perhaps a thousand Horse may be order'd to come from the Army in Burgundy into Pi­cardy, as soon as Dole is taken, that we may be in a bet­ter condition to oppose the Enemy, whose greatest Ef­forts seems to be upon the Frontiers of Picardy.

I cannot conclude this Letter, without testifying to you once more my great regret for Monsieur Hebron. I am likewise sorry to hear that Monsieur de Turenne is wounded. Pray assure him of the continuance of my Affection; and as for your own particular, rest satisfy'd that no Man e­steems you more, or is more really than my self,

LETTER LIV. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

I Have receiv'd your Letter which you were pleased to write to me upon the occasion of the taking of Saverne, and have consider'd the Contents of it. We shou'd be willing to put that place into the Hands of the Duke of Weymar, to testifie the great Confidence we repose in him, But certain it is, that the Catholicks wou'd lay hold of such an Opportunity, to raise great Clamours against us, this place being the Seat of the Bishop of Strasburg, whither the Catholicks have retir'd. The Nuncio has already inqui­red very particularly how we design to dispose of it; and his Holiness, whom the Spaniards perpetually insti­gate against France, as you know well enough, wou'd carry himself wholly against us upon this occasion. Pray give the Duke of Weymar to understand so much; and to convince him how much we relie upon his In­tegrity, [Page 62] and that no other reason in the World shou'd hin­der the King from delivering the place up to him, his Majesty is content, if he desires it, that you shou'd re­store the Castle of Aubar to him; and if he takes any o­ther place in Alsatia, or upon the Sarre, which he thinks worthy of Consideration, the King is well satisfy'd that it shou'd be consign'd over to him. This, My Lord, is all that we have to say upon this Subject, his Majesty refer­ring the rest to your Prudence.

As for the rest, when ever the Duke of Weymar thinks fit to make any stay in Alsatia, the King is well enough content it shou'd be at Saverne, provided he likes the place, and will give Orders to those that he puts into the place, to receive him with as much Honour and Deference, as if the aforesaid place were absolutely in his Hands.

You must remember to chuse a Governour for it, of a different Temper from the Wretch that had it last, that if it happens to be attack'd, he may follow the Example of those that defended and acquired it with so great Trouble and Expence, since poor Colonel Hebron died there.

It belongs to your Discretion to consider whether you cannot re-inforce the Grand Provost with some Troops in Lorrain, to make opposition against the Enemy that is there, which is conformable to a Design I have seen in a Letter of the Duke of Weymar, by approaching near the Sarre.

To conclude; the King gives you full power to attempt whatever you shall judge worth the while. As it is of the last importance that Saverne be fortify'd strongly, I am persuaded you will take particular care about it.

When you were here, I often heard you discoursing, of how great Consequence it wou'd be, if you cou'd get good advanced Quarters this next Winter, inconve­nient to the Enemy, and advantageous for your selves. It will concern you in point of Prudence, to consider of this in good time.

As far as we are able to judge of the Designs of Spain, particularly by a Dispatch of a fresh Date, that was sur­prized by Monsieur de Grammont, their intention is to in­duce Galasse, and the King of Hungary, to make an Effort to enter France in August. It concerns you and the Duke of Weymar to oppose this Attempt, and frustrate the Exe­cution of it.

If you cou'd possibly disengage your self from putting the Castle of Aubar into the hands of the Hugonots, it wou'd be much better for us. Besides, I don't look upon it to be in the least necessary to the Duke of Weymar, since Saverne is already comprehended in Alsatia, which the King has quitted to him, pursuant to the Articles of the Treaty between them; and that in consideration of this, his Majesty will command the Person whom you shall establish in it, to acknowledge him as much as he can desire. You are Master of so much Address, that I am confident you can bring over the Duke to any Terms that you judge most advantageous for the King's Service, for which reason I shall speak to you no more upon this Head, assuring you that I am, and always will be,

LETTER LV. To the Pope.
Out of Monsieur du Puy's Cabinet, MS. 363.

I Don't address these Lines to you, as being Privy-Coun­seller to the greatest of all those Princes that have the happiness to be under the Conduct of your Holiness, but as a Cardinal of the Holy See, zealous for the Interests of the Church, and for every thing that concerns the Per­son and House of Beatitude. Now what happen'd lately in relation to the Mareschal d'Estreés, being of such a nature that it may draw very ill Consequences along with it, I shou'd plainly be wanting to my Duty, if I did not make my humble Supplications to you, to employ your Pru­dence upon this Occasion. As the Mareschal has done nothing but what the King commanded him to do, if a­ny of his Actions have been disagreeable to your Holi­ness, you ought to complain of his Majesty, and not of [Page 62] [...] [Page 63] [...] [Page 64] him. However, I persuade my self that your Goodness and Justice will induce you to acknowledge, that it never was the intention of that great Prince to displease you in whatever has happen'd, but rather to serve you, and hinder those who formerly have executed their De­signs against the Holy See from putting themselves in such a condition, during his Reign, as to give the World any just Apprehensions of their playing the same Game over again. Your Holiness about two Years ago, sent a Nuncio Extraordinary to France, upon an occasion as contrary to the Interests of his Majesty, as it was favoura­ble to the Spaniards, and recall'd him when that Court gave publick Signs that his Person was disagreeable to them, and apprehended that he dealt for a Peace, against their Intention. Now if it should so fall out that your Ho­liness shou'd persist to oppose the Employ of the Mare­schal d'Estreés, in whose Person are to be found abun­dance of Qualities contrary to what the Enemies of this Crown may desire, there is no Person but wou'd believe, altho' erroneously, that Spain, by her Artifices, had in­sensibly carry'd your Holiness to what she most of all de­sir'd. As for my self, this Thought never found any room in my Breast, but it concerns your Holiness in the highest degree, to prevent it from taking any footing in the Minds of other People, who perhaps will conclude there is something in it, if you shou'd continue to treat the King upon this occasion, otherwise than you do o­ther Princes that have Ambassadors at your Court. I hope your Holiness will be pleased to make a difference be­tween those that honour you with a cordial and ever­lasting Reverence, and those that only give you a few exteriour Marks of it, when their Affairs require such a Conduct. The known Piety of the King naturally leads your Holiness to this Procedure, his Person demands it of you, the present Juncture seems to oblige your Bea­titude to it, since nothing can prove so directly contrary to a Peace, as to show a disrespect to him, who of all other Kings, most earnestly desires a strict Uni­on with you. As it is an easie matter, so it will likewise be a glorious one to your Holiness, to preserve that absolute Power which you have in the Affection of this great Prince; and I dare engage to you, that the Mareschal d'Estrées, for his part, will endeavour no­thing more zealously than to serve you, and advance the Interests of your whole Family, that by doing so, [Page 65] he may render himself serviceable to his Ma­ster. If it happens otherwise, I freely consent that your Holiness shou'd lay all the blame upon my self, who shou'd take it for a new Obligation, if you wou'd con­descend to think upon this most humble Supplication of mine, and not barely consider it as such, but as it con­curs with his Majesty's Prayers, which have no other End but what may be of most advantage to your Ho­liness, and all your Family. This I most humbly con­jure your Holiness to believe, as likewise that I shall always be,

LETTER LVI. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

YOU will particularly know by the Dispatch of Monsieur de Noyers, what condition we are in at pre­sent, and what the Enemy has been doing ever since they have approach'd towards the Frontier of Picardy. The King daily strengthens himself with new Forces, as much as he can, that he may be in a capacity to beat them back into their own Territory. His Majesty makes account, so soon as Dole is taken, which News we expect every hour with the greatest impatience, to order two thou­sand Horse of Monsieur the Prince's Army, to march and joyn that of Picardy, where there are not above five thou­sand; leaving the rest of the above-mention'd Army, ei­ther to tarry still in the Franche-Comté, and make Head a­gainst the Enemy, if they offer to come there, or else to march into Lorrain, according as he shall find it most ex­pedient for his Affairs. As for what relates to your self, My Lord, the King leaves you wholly at your own liberty to act as you shall judge most advantageous to his Designs, and does not prescribe you any Method to follow, but trusts intirely to your Prudence and your Conduct, to manage your self, as the Motion of the Enemy, and any emergent Occasions make it proper for you. In the [Page 66] mean time, I beseech you to believe that I can have no opportunity of serving you, presented to me, which I shall not embrace with the greatest eagerness, that I may convince you every day more and more, of the esteem I have for your Person, and of the Affection wherewith I am, and ever shall be,

LETTER LVII. To the same.

YOU will soon imagine that the War goes but ill on our side in these parts, since I have resolv'd at at last to go thither in Person, with all the Pains and Ill­nesses to which you know me so subject. The Cow­ardice of three Raskals, that made no defence for the Garrisons they were intrusted with, has so perplex'd our Affairs for the present, that I am necessitated to make this Journey. You never heard of such perfidious Villains; soon after, away they sled, like Traytors as they were: We have drawn them asunder between four Horses, in Effigie, with all the reproachful Marks of Ignominy that con'd possibly be thought of, and their Persons will be treated after the same manner, where-ever we happen to find them.

We shall have by the Sixth of the next Month, above ten thousand Horse, and twenty five thousand Foot: With these Forces we shall march streight towards the Enemy. On one side we have Monsieur of Lorrain to sear, who designs to make a Descent upon us by the way of Burgundy, with his own Troops, and those that were quarter'd in the Franche-Comté; and, as I imagine, Galasse, who might very well have pass'd the Rhine, to re-pass it at Brisac, and so marched to joyn him.

This, My Lord, is the Province which we leave to be manag'd by your self, and the Duke of Weymar in con­junction.

We have left a thousand Horse, and three thousand Foot with Monsieur the Prince. Besides these, he may still raise three thousand Men, and five hundred Horse, with which he will be able to oppose the Enemy on one side, while you will powerfully make Head against him on the other.

For this effect, it will be wholly necessary for you to direct your Course towards Espagnol or Mircourt, that you may afterwards take such a way as the marching of the Enemy will oblige you to observe. As soon as you draw near to the Prince's Army, care shall be taken to prevent all manner of Competition, by sending down an Order to him to go to some other place, and to leave his Troops with you. I know very well that 'tis impossible to pro­pose a more mortifying Condition to you, than to send you to the place where the obove-mention'd Person has any power: But it cannot be avoided, the necessity of our Affairs obliging us to follow this Conduct. You are the only Man, that, together with the Duke of Weymar, are able to regulate Matters in those Parts.

Although our Affairs on this side are in a very scur­vy condition, yet I hope we shall be able to retrieve them, so soon as our Troops are got together. Al­though the Spaniards quitted all other Designs, to make their utmost Efforts in Picardy, yet if they had not met with such treacherous Villains, I believe they wou'd have had no mighty Matters to boast of.

'Tis my Request to you, to march towards Burgundy with all the speed you can, that this Consternation may produce no ill Effects on that side, which will not happen when they see you have Forces there able to oppose the Designs of the Enemy.

The Prince has already had the Orders sent to him, which his Majesty wou'd have observ'd among the diffe­rent Armies, when they joyn, which is, that every Ge­neral shall command his own Troops. I am apt to think that the sooner you can advance on this side, it will be so much the better; for I make no question but Galasse will endeavour to pass the River at Brisac, to joyn the Duke of Lorrain. and 'tis of great importance that you shou'd ar­rive there before him.

The Enemies have possess'd themselves of the Village of Verdun upon the Doux, which is not fortify'd, but 'tis a Pass of some consequence. Assure your self, My Lord, that I am, and will be, so long as I live, without the least alteration,

LETTER LVIII. To the same.

I Want Words to express my Dissatisfaction at the ill Conduct of the Marquiss de Sourdis. He cannot ex­cuse himself upon the want of Directions; for he has been written to often enough. If we knew any Man at present fit to be put into his place, we shou'd take care to have him sent for home immediately.

As for the Gentlemen of the Parliament of Metz, you will assuredly receive all the Satisfaction you can desire: But I desire you to have a little patience, till the pre­sent Tempest be over. After the rate things go now, one wou'd imagine that a Blessing attended those that rail'd at the Government. I hope that within two Months it will not be so; and then the Parliament of Metz shall be chang'd, as you desire it.

We do all that we can to re-inforce you with some Foot. This very Day we order'd the Regiment of Ronciere to march, which, in my opinion, will make a very fine one. Verderonne is by this time got pretty forward, and so is Decauts. The Regiment that Monsieur Vignier is a raising, will be complete in seven or eight Days. Vau­becourt has sent us word that he will furnish us with four thousand Men; but knowing the Man as you and I do, I shou'd be very glad if he brought us but one half of them. Let the worst come, I take it for granted that he and Monsieur Vignier will bring three thousand effective Men, and Verderonne, Ronciere, and Decauts; two thousand [Page 69] five hundred, besides the Forces that the Baron de Chape­laine, and one Anfonville, intend to raise, to put into Chaumont.

As for the Horse, we expect them from those places where the Count de Guiche told you.

'Tis with a great deal of reason you say that we want a German in the place of the late Monsieur Hebron. If you cou'd so contrive matters, as to manage any one of those whom you propos'd, you wou'd very much oblige us. In the mean time we will write about it.

Since I writ this, it came into my Head, that the Great Provost will be a very proper Man at Nancy. Send me word what you think of it, and whether you approve of him. If 'tis so, after I have receiv'd your Letter, I will act accordingly, and let you see upon all occasions that whatever concerns you, touches me more sensibly than even my own proper Interests. Let me conjure you to believe that I am most sincerely,

LETTER LIX. To the same.

THE Sieur Talon, your Secretary, has receiv'd Satisfa­ction, as he will inform you himself, as to the busi­ness of the Fund for Corn. In every thing else that lies in my power, you shall find the like care taken, to give you all imaginable content.

The King has given the Scotch Regiment to the Baron Hebron, which your Letter did not a little promote.

The Prince has sent us some Letters, which were writ­ten very much in your favour. I suppose that by this time his Troops, and those of Vaubécourt have joyn'd you, and that by this means you will be in a condition to op­pose the designs of Galasse. Upon my word, I depend more upon your, and the Duke of Weymar's Conduct, [Page 70] although you have but indifferent Forces, than upon all the great Armies which we have on this side, which in truth, exceed thirty five thousand Foot, and twelve thou­sand Horse in number.

The Enemy retires too fast for us. We cou'd wish they wou'd be so civil as to stay till we cou'd come up to them. Their Army does not in reality consist of above eighteen thousand, as well Foot as Horse.

Monsieur has passed the River at Peronne, with twenty five thousand Men, and ten thousand Horse. The King marches this way towards Corbie, with ten thousand Men, and two thousand Horse.

Corbie at this very Moment is reduc'd to great necessity. Those that are in the place are forc'd to eat boil'd Corn, as they did at the Siege of Paris. They have Corn in abundance; but their Mills that were lately burnt by the Sieur de Beau-fort, failing them, they give seven Bushels of Corn for a Bushel and a half of Meal. They have in a manner no Wine among them; and to compleat their Misery, the Plague and Bloody-Flux rage violently in the place.

I am very glad that you have taken Chevillon: You did very well in giving him leave to write. You must look after him carefully, and treat him gently, in order to make good use of him in time and place, as occasion shall require. There is no good to be hoped from the Master of the a­foresaid Chevillon, unless meer Necessity constrains him to it, and it pleases God to give us some Advantage over our Enemies.

If the People of the Franche-Comté wou'd come again into the Neutrality, the King wou'd do the same very willingly. You and the Prince may negotiate this Af­fair, according as you find it convenient, if you see any tendency towards it.

We can return no answer to Monsieur de Frangipane, be­cause we cannot listen to any Treaty of a Peace, but in conjunction with the rest of our Allies at Colen, which is the place appointed for all.

We have paid two hundred thousand Crowns to the Duke of Weymar. They send me word that within three Days there will be nothing due to him.

You remember what I writ to you concerning the Mar­quis de Sourdis, and the Affair of the Parliament of Metz. Both one and t'other shall most assuredly be done. Send me word with all expedition whether you judge the Great Provost to [Page 71] be a proper Man for. Nancy. In case you do, his Com­mission shall be speedily dispatch'd to him: But you must be sure to keep the Affair secret, that he may be actually in the place before they mistrust any thing of the matter. Assure your self, My Lord, that whatever concerns you, shall likewise affect me to the highest de­gree, who am,

LETTER LX. To the same.

THE Sieur de Suz will deliver the King's pleasure to you so fully and clearly, that I have no occasion to say more to that point. I am confident you know how to make the best use of it, and manage all Advantages with care. You shall not want Money to pay for whatever Corn is necessary for the Subsistence of your Army. Due care shall be taken here, to supply you with it from time to time, according as you send us word, that you stand in need of it.

I have written to the Duke of Weymar, a Letter in the most obliging Terms I cou'd think of. I likewise writ to Monsieur de Ranzau. The Sieur de Suz, and his Gentle­man, bring him two thousand Crowns for his Pension: We shall most certainly take care of him.

We hasten, as much as possible, Monsieur de Longueville, to go and joyn you. He sent me word two Days ago that he was march'd out of Gisors.

I say nothing to you of our Affairs on this side. You'll hear the News soon enough from other Hands. The Ene­my retir'd with too much haste out of Picardy; and those that were employ'd to pursue them, follow'd them too slowly. A Multitude of Commanders does never do any good.

Corbie is block'd up: The Works advance very well; the Spaniards, 'tis true, bear Hardships very well, but 'tis [Page 72] certain that the necessities of the place are very pressing. Among the rest, they have no Wine, very little Beer, and but one Hand-Mill, which cannot supply one half of the Garrison.

The Sieur de Suz brings the Great Provost his Commis­sion to go to Nancy; pray send him thither with all Se­cresie and speed, for the Affair requires it.

In whatsoever Place or Condition I am, you shall al­ways find me what you know me to be, that is to say,

Pray tell the Count de Grancay, that the King takes it very kindly from him, that he helpt you to sub­sist your Army. As for my own particular, I am highly oblig'd to him for it, and will take all occasions to possess the King with a good opinion of his Services.

Yesterday in the Evening I receiv'd your Letter, dated Oct. 3. I shall only add to those Lines I writ to you yesterday, that I am sending a Courrier in all haste, to Monsieur de Longueville, to joyn you with all ex­pedition.

Monsieur de Ranzau has not only receiv'd his Warrant for a Pension of two thousand Crowns, but has had it actually paid to him; which Summ I made a shift to make up, not thinking it fit to wait the leasure of the Treasury.

It is impossible at present to get Aiguebonne out of the place where he is. Fontenay is busied here. We cou'd not think of a fitter Man to send to Nancy, than the Great Provost,

Pray write to all the places in Alsatia, to furnish themselves with as much Corn as they can. I will effectively pro­vide that Money shall be sent to them.

We have writ to Monsieur de Villarceaux, to lay up part of the Corn with all speed at Saverne. The Great Pro­vost being at Nancy, may make him do it himself. [Page 73] If Monsieur de Ranzau can raise the Croats, we shall be well pleas'd with the News. I will write to Charnacé, to bring over Herrenrestre, about whom you writ to me, to the King's Service.

Amiens, Oct. 11, 1636.

LETTER LXI. To the same.

WHen the Sieur de Suz parted from hence, in order to go and wait upon you, I assured him we wou'd think to put him in some Place, without explain­ing my self any farther to him. Since that time I have so great a Value for him, particularly upon the Testi­monials you have given me, of his Affection and Cou­rage, that I propos'd him to the King to be Governour of Moyenvic, concluding that you wou'd be infinitely bet­ter pleas'd to have this Place, which depends upon your Government, and is at the Gates of Metz, fill'd with a Person whom you love, and can answer for, than one you don't know, as you do the Sieur de Suz. His Majesty granted him the Government very willingly. If you think him not proper for the place, pray stop the Com­mission, and send it back again to me: But if you judge him capable of such a Post, see it deliver'd to him, and send him to Mayenvec aforesaid. In this and every thing else, where there is the least prospect of serving you, you'll find by the effect that I am with all sincerity,

LETTER LXII. To the same.

THE reason of my setting Pen to Paper now, is not to answer your Dispatch which you sent me by the Sieur Arodot, but to assure you of the continuance of my Affection and Service, and to tell you, that the Mar­quiss of Coblens has had the honour to kiss the King's Hand, who receiv'd him very favourably. His Majesty has granted him a Pension of two thousand Crowns, and given him a Warrant for it, till such time as he has an opportunity to reward his Services some other way. For my own particular, I will assist him as far as lies in my power, as well in consideration of his Me­rit, as for the recommendation you give me of his Per­son. I beseech you to believe that I am, and will be so, as long as I live,

LETTER LXIII. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

IF the News you sent me of the Retreat of Galasse, and the Victory which the King's Arms have obtain'd over him, gave me so great a Satisfaction, I am apt to flatter my self that the surrendry of Corbie, which this Gentleman brings with him, will prove no less agreeable to you, since I know how overjoy'd you are at every ad­vantage, which God is pleas'd to bestow upon his Ma­jesty's Affairs. The Enemy is to march out of the Place to Morrow, according to the Capitulation agreed upon; for the performance of which, they have given us by way of Hostages, three of the principal Officers of the Garri­son, without demanding any from us. The extraordina­ry incommodities they suffer'd by the Plague, and other Distempers, and by the want of all sorts of Victuals, be­sides Corn, joyn'd to the great Fatigues they were con­strain'd to undergo, to resist four vigorous Attacks, oblig'd them to surrender, before they were brought to the last Extremities. This happy Action, and the retreat of Ga­lasse, will, I suppose, hinder the Enemies of France from boasting they have done us any great Mischief, since they have suffer'd twice as much themselves, their Country be­ing without comparison more ruin'd than ours, along of the Germans who committed all imaginable Cruelties there. I cannot sufficiently wonder what makes Monsieur de Longueville him, behind still, several Courriers have been dispatch'd to keep to press him to joyn you; nay, I sent one of my own Gentlemen, to represent to him, how necessary it was to do it for the wellfare of his Majesty's Affairs, who is not yet return'd. If Galasse in his Retreat shou'd receive an Overthrow from us, we might say truly enough, that his Majesty's Affairs were never better than they wou'd then be. And I hope it will so fall out.

I cannot express to you how well pleas'd the King is with your Conduct and Services, nor how joyful I am in my own particular, that his Majesty sets so great an [Page 77] esteem upon your Person. Monsieur de Rantzau cannot be sufficiently commended: The Action at Saint-Jean de Laune was so gallant, that he deserves to have a particular No­tice taken of him, to which I shall willingly contribute all that lies in my own Power; and pray let me desire you to signifie as much to him. If you are so happy as to beat Galasse back into Germany, with some remarkable Advantage, besides what you have already obtain'd over him, it wou'd be highly necessary for you, if it is pra­cticable, to take your Winter-Quarters in the Franche-Comté, and at Miremont, Espinol, Rambervilliers, and Mire­court. At least 'tis absolutely necessary to leave them to the Duke of Weymar, in case you cannot enjoy them both together, for it will be an Advantage to him; and, to say the truth, our Frontier wou'd soon be ruin'd by the extraordinary Disorders that Strangers use to commit. Rest assur'd that as long as I live, I shall be,

LETTER LXIV. To the same.

THE reason of my writing to you now, is not to tell you how overjoy'd I am at the late Victory which your Army has got over that of Galasse in the Franche-Comté; for you may easily imagine how great my Satisfaction is, as well for the Advantage the King's Affairs receive by it, as for the Honour you have ac­quir'd upon this occasion, the increase whereof I no less passionately desire, than your self can do, there being no Man living that honours and loves you better than my self. I shall content my self with telling you, that this happy Event, joyn'd with the good Success that has hap­pen'd on this side, a full account of which I have sent you by a Gentleman belonging to the Prince, has re­establish'd his Majesty's Affairs in so great Reputation, [Page 78] that our very Enemies are forc'd to own, that they were never in a better Condition than they are at present.

By the Dispatch that the Prince's Gentleman brings you, I have sent you my Opinion about the Winter-Quarters for the Duke of Weymar's Troops, and your own: I long to hear what your Sentiments are upon that Subject.

I will speak to the King about the two Commissions of Ayde de Camp, that you writ to me about, as soon as I see his Majesty. In the mean time you may look upon it as actually done, for I don't expect to meet the least difficulty in it.

Monsieur de Noyers is the Man that returns a particu­lar Answer to all your Dispatches; which is the rea­son why I forbear to add any thing concerning them here.

I writ to the Count de Guiche to come to me here, in order to send him afterwards to Bayonne, to meet his Father; and in truth 'tis absolutely necessary that he shou'd undertake this Journey. Pray make no difficulty to let him go.

I am upon the Road now, going towards his Maje­sty, and have given Orders about every thing that I judg'd useful or necessary for the security of Picardy, where we have made some change in the Governour, which I believe you'll approve of. Where-ever I am, you may assure your self that I shall always be, and that with the utmost sincerity,

LETTER LXV. To the same.

YOu'll be astonish'd, I know, when you hear that so soon as Corbie was surrender'd, the Count car­ry'd Monsieur along with him from Court; and you'll be more astonish'd when you are told, that according to the common Report, they have taken their Course di­rectly towards Guienne. I don't question but that Mon­sieur d' Espernon, and Monsieur de la Valette, will discharge their Duty; but I desire you to dispatch a Person, in whom you may relie, thither, to fortifie them in their good Intentions. The Malice of the Count, and the Ea­siness of Monsieur, are really things that surpass expressing. I conjure you to do on your side, all that you shall judge necessary upon this occasion. Monsieur de Noyers has writ to you about Winter-Quarters for the Duke of Weymar. 'Tis of great importance, in my Opinion, that he shou'd have them in Lorrain, on the side of Remiremont, Espinal, Rambervilliers, Mirecourt; that we may save France as much as we can, or rather to give him some Contributions to be rais'd upon Bassigny, that shall be brought to him by certain Commissioners erected on purpose to receive them. I beseech you to believe that I am, and always will be,

LETTER LXVI. To the same.

MOnsieur de Noyers dispatching this Courrier to you, to give you Advice of the Alteration that has hap­pen'd in the Affair of Monsieur and the Count, I writ these few Lines, to signifie to you how overjoy'd I am at the News, and to acquaint you by the same Bearer, that I hope every thing will be accommodated to the Sa­tisfaction of the King and his Servants, and yet that this shall not occasion the least change in his Majesty's Af­fairs. I wish with all my Heart it may go off so. But let whatever will happen, I shall always be to the utmost of my power,

I know well enough that the Equipping of the Count will cause some Difficulties; but for all that, I don't believe it will have any influence in chang­ing the Series of Affairs, or the repose of the State.

LETTER LXVII. To the same.

MOnsieur de Noyers has writ so fully to you, that the reason of my putting Pen to Paper now, was not to add any thing to his Dispatch, but only to tell you the King is of opinion, that 'tis absolutely necessary for [Page 81] for his Service, that you shou'd not leave your Post to come to wait upon him, till such time as you have de­cided what is contain'd in the Memorial, which the a­foresaid Sieur de Noyers sends you from the part of his Ma­jesty. You'll pass a better Judgment upon it when you see it, than 'tis possible for me to represent to you in this Letter. I will not tell you how joyful I shall be to see you, reserving that till such an opportunity presents it self. In the mean time, I conjure you to believe, that there is no Man living upon whose Affection and Ser­vice you may more entirely depend, than mine, who am, and ever will be,

LETTER LXVIII. To the same.

THE Prince of Orange having sent me several Letters and Memoirs, where he takes notice of several De­fects at Thionville, observed by one la Mothe, a Captain in that Garrison, who was taken Prisoner by the Troops be­longing to the States, and carried to Ma [...]stricht, I judged it convenient that you should go and view the place, that if there is any prospect of getting it, you might not lose the opportunity, while you are in those parts: For which reason I have sent the Dispatch to you, just as I receiv'd it, leaving it to your Prudence to make those Considera­rations upon it, which you think will be most advanta­geous for the King's Service. This being the business of this Letter, I shall only add, that I am, and always will be,

LETTER LXIX. To the same.

YOU will herewith receive the Commission sent down to the Duke of Candalle, to command the King's Army in your absence, and under you. I have nothing more to add, but that so soon as you have put the Ar­my into their Winter-Quarters, the King will be very glad to see you; and my self in particular, whose great­est Ambition it is to convince you that I am,

LETTER LXX. To Monsieur, the King's Brother.

HIS Majesty's Goodness, in relation to your self, is so fully known to me, that I dare engage my Life and Honour for the performance of what he is pleas'd to promise you in the Letter which will be put into your Hands by Monsieur de Chavigny. Your Highness shall find upon this occasion, and any other that may happen here­after, that I am with Zeal and Sincerity,

LETTER LXXI. To Monsieur, the Count.

THE Assurances which Monsieur de Brion, aad the good Father Hilarion, have given me of your Affection, have made me write these few Lines to you, to thank you for it, and to signifie to you how overjoy'd I am that you have taken the true Course to re-establish your self in his Majesty's Favour, and given an opportunity to those that honour you, as I do in particular, to do you what Service they can. Which I shall most readily do, whenever an occasion presents it self, as being,

LETTER LXXII. To the Duke of Halwin.

I Was extremely pleas'd to find by the Letter you writ to me on the 14th. of this Month, that you had sent a Re-inforcement to the Islands, by way of advance. His Majesty judges it expedient that you should visit them, as you desire, and discourse the Commissioners of the Navy, to know what store of Victuals and Ammu­nitions Languedoc is able to furnish for their Subsi­stence, as you will more particularly find by the Letter which the King has written to you upon this Sub­ject. I do here positively assure you, that if you pass your Word, as you tell me you are ready to do it, to the Merchants who are willing to advance these Pro­visions, [Page 84] that they shall certainly be paid, such order shall be taken to establish a Fund here for that purpose, that you need not be in any trouble about that matter. In the mean time, rest assur'd of the continuance of my Affection to you, and believe that no opportunity shall present it self to give you any Proofs of it, which I shall not most eagerly embrace, who am,

Besides, that 'tis his Majesty's desire that you wou'd visit all Provence about the occasion mention'd in my Letter, I conjure you in my own particular, to do all that lies in your power, relating to that Affair; assuring you that you cannot do any thing that will be more agreeable to his Majesty, and grateful to my self.

LETTER LXXIII. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

I Dispatch'd this Gentleman on purpose to you, as well to bring me an account of your Health, as how Af­fairs go in your part of the World. I don't doubt but you'll take all imaginable care to put your self in a condition to enter the Enemy's Country speedily, because the surest way to give them an effectual Blow, will be to surprize them, and not give them time to put them­selves into a posture to oppose you. The Sieur de Ai­gueberre is come back, and returned. The Prince of O­range persists in his first Resolutions, to make one of the three Attacks you know of, provided that we begin first. The aforesaid Sieur d' Aigueberre has been with him, to assure him that by the fourth of this Month, you'll be in the Enemy's Country. I hope you will do it with good success, which I the rather believe, because I am no Stranger to your good Fortune and Industry. Let [Page 85] me conjure you, therefore, My Lord, to make all the haste you can, that the Prince of Orange may have no excuse for staying behind. I know well enough that a Day or two, whether more or less, will break no squares between you; so the intention of this Letter is not to make you take the Field in a hurry, but only to remind you to lose no time.

Monsieur de la Meilleraye goes next Wednesday to review the Troops he is to command, and will so post himself as to be able to assist you upon any occasion. I passio­nately wish that you may perform some glorious Ex­ploit, not only for the Advantage of the King's Service, but also for your own particular Satisfaction, which I desire as much as your self; being with all sincerity.

LETTER LXXIV. To the same.

I Am extremely concern'd that you did not find every thing in readiness, as you might well expect; but 'tis the nature of great Affairs to carry many Difficulties with them; and it often happens that the Sun shines brighter after the Storm is over.

I suppose that by this time the Horses you wanted to draw the Cannon, are arriv'd safe, and that Crié has given orders for subsisting your four hundred Hor­ses that are to carry your Victuals; Monsieur de Bullion ha­ving made Provision for them above ten Days ago.

As for the other two hundred Horses, that you want, to make them up in all a hundred and fifty, the Sieur de Septoutre, who was employ'd to raise them, has given the Sieur Gargan a List of the several places where they are kept; for 'tis ten Days ago since he signified as much in a Letter to Monsieur de Noyers, who has sent you an account of that whole matter.

Vercourt parted from hence on Saturday, to wait upon you; but I suppose he will first call upon Monsieur de Rambure, at Guise.

Monsieur de la Barre went yesterday to meet you, and carries with him Money to pay off the Artillery. We are assur'd here, that his absence will do no hurt, be­cause the Officers that are upon the Spot, have orders to act in his absence, as far as he himself cou'd do, if he was there.

The Boats went from Paris about five Days ago. I am sorry you had them not all at once, that you might have begun with the better show. But you may want several things that are absolutely necessary to you, which the Ene­my however cannot hinder from coming up to you, your Designs not carrying you to leave any place that belongs to them, behind you.

If your Infantry is not so good as you cou'd desire, we design you from this very Moment, two Regiments, of twenty Companies each, to recruit you by the be­ginning of July, and two more by the first of August.

To convince you that I will omit nothing that lies within the Sphere of my poor capacity, to second the good Designs which you have form'd for his Majesty's Service, I have sent you by one of Monsieur de Noyers's Gentlemen, ten thousand Crowns, that in case any thing be wanting to the Horses that carry your Provisions, or, in short, any other unforeseen Accident shou'd happen, you may be able to remedy it immediately, and not see your Designs miscarry for want of Money.

The Sieur d' Estrade has communicated to us your two different Projects. Your first is, to take Auchy in twenty four Hours, which may easily be done, and to invest Hesdin at the same time, in order to besiege it afterwards. The second is, to take Chasteau Cambresis, which may be done in three or four Days time; and so soon as you have taken that place, to invest Landrecy, in order to besiege it afterwards.

As for the first, you must let it alone, because of our Engagement with the Prince of Orange. Aigueberre is come back, who went on purpose to assure him, that we wou'd attack the Enemy on this side, without naming the place. So you must consider with all speed, what is to be done with the second Design, or any other that you shall judge more advantageous. But as for Hesdin, you must not think of it at present, for the Reasons mention'd above.

There will be no occasion to send for the Count de Guiche hither, because that wou'd make People suspect that we were irresolv'd [...]n our Designs; and this Answer gives you light enough to see what measures you must take. Le Rosle is gone from hence, with the Sieur d' Estrade, to serve this Campagne. Rest assur'd that I am, and always will be,

LETTER LXXV. To the same.

THat which afflicts Monsieur de Bullion, rejoyces me; that is to say, the Supplies of Money which you demand for the Month's Pay of your Troops. 'Tis true, the Advice I lately receiv'd, that you had not above ten thousand Men, does sensibly grieve me; but since the Funds that were erected to discharge the aforesaid Month's Pay, for fifteen thousand Foot, and seven thousand Horse, does not suffice, we shall have more Men by a great deal than we expected.

Monsieur de la Meilleraye has faithfully promis'd me, that you shall want no Military Provisions, that he spoke to you about: I am going this very Moment to give Or­ders concerning them. At this present Hour, besides the Ammunitions which you have in your Equipage, there are thirty thousand Pound weight of Powder in St. Quin­tin, which you may send for whenever you please, because it is design'd for your Army.

I am sorry for the discovery of the King's Musqueteer; but in matters of War, a Man had much better depend upon meer Force, than upon Enterprizes, the Success whereof is uncertain. I hope that by carrying on your Affairs with your usual Vigour, all things will succeed [Page 88] well enough. This I desire from the bottom of my Heart, as also that you'll believe me to be,

LETTER LXXVI. To the same

I Have left it to Monsieur de Noyers to return a particular Answer to the Dispatch which you sent to me by Mon­sieur d' Estrade, and to let you know how well pleas'd I am at the account he gave me of the good condition of your Troops. I am no less satisfy'd to find that the En­terprize you are now upon, promises so fairly; and indeed, 'tis impossible to manage any thing with more Prudence and Judgment, than you have shown upon that occasion.

I don't question but that in a short time you'll be Master of Chasteau-Cambresis, and hope that after that Landrechy will make no long opposition, tho' the Town is strongly fortify'd, and well provided; so great an opinion have I of the good Success of his Majesty's Arms, and of your Diligence. Nothing shall be wanting here, that may in the least contribute to make you Master of that place.

I have already sent you word, that besides the fourscore thousand weight of Powder which you have with you, there are thirty thousand weight more at St. Quintin, which you may send for when you see fit: As also four thousand Cannon-Ball, and two thousand for Culverins, that are at Guise. And now I can assure you, that Monsieur de la Meilleraye has given Orders to send you all sorts of Ammunition, on which we work here without intermis­sion. He has likewise sent you 300 Artillery Horses ex­traordinary, to carry the Powder, and other Stores that are at Chaulny and Compeigne, according to your request, to Guise; and to hasten the aforesaid Carriages and Wag­gons, we send thither a Relation of Monsieur de Noyers, and a Gentleman, that lives with me, who I am sure will [Page 89] not lose one Moment. Thus, my Lord, I hope that you'll be well supply'd with Ammunition, and that in a short time we shall have a good Magazine at Guise.

We have likewise dispatch'd Courriers to the Regi­ments of Belnave, Xaintonge, and Perigord, that are quar­ter'd not far from this place, to advance, in order to send them to you, to re-inforce your Army.

We have no News in these parts. The King, God be thanked, is in good health. As for my self, I am trou­bled with my old Distemper, which however does not hinder me from testifying to you upon all occasions, that I am with all sincerity,

LETTER LXXVII. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

SInce the Dispatch I sent to you by Monsieur de Pulluau, the Sieur Renard arriv'd here, upon which I cou'd not forbear to congratulate with you for the continual progress of his Majesty's Arms under your conduct, not at all doubt­ing but that they will prosper more and more in your Hands, to the great satisfaction of the King, and your own Honour in particular. As you have already found by good Experience, that nothing is wanting to you, which is in the power of the Court, so I am persuaded that on your part, you'll do all you can to make your self Master speedily of the Town you have besieg'd, not questioning but that you have taken sufficient care to prevent any relief from coming to the place.

I can assure you, that you'll either find the Enemy in a weak condition, or that they'll leave you to meet the Prince of Orange, who at this very Moment I am writing to you, is in the Field. He parted from the Hague on the Seventeenth of this Month, for that intent; and I flatter my self that he will perform some remarkable Action; for in all probability he has such a Design in his Head, [Page 90] and knows well enough that the Enemy is not over powerful.

I so passionately desire that the Army may be victori­ous under your command, that if I thought there were the least necessity for it, I wou'd offer my self to serve you even in the quality of a Commissary of the Provisions. I am, and always will be,

LETTER LXXVIII. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

THE desire I have to omit nothing that may enable you to perform some notable and successful Action, has made me resolve, since the departure of Monsieur de Palluau, to dispatch an Express to Monsieur de la Meil­leraye, to tell him, that instead of carrying on the Design upon which we put him, he must march strait away for St. Quintin, with fifteen hundred Horse, and four thousand Foot, to joyn you if you have occasion for him. Upon due consideration, I find that we may reap so many Advantages by taking Landrechy, that nothing in the World should be neglected that can in the least con­tribute to so good a Design. If I cou'd do more towards the effecting of it, I wou'd do it very freely, both as it respects the King's Service, and your Glory. You may rest assur'd of this, as also that I am with all sincerity,

LETTER LXXIX. To the Duke of Halwin.

I Have dispatch'd this Courrier on purpose to you, to inform you with all speed, that besides the Attack which the King of Spain makes on the Coasts of Bayonne, he prepares another for Languedoc, which he designs to make on the Fifteenth of July. To facilitate this Enter­prize, he has summoned all the Power of Spain, and sei­zed on all the Coach-Horses in Madrid, to mount the Ca­valry. You may easily believe that I am well satisfied how difficult it is for Spain to make two powerful At­tacks at the same time; but however, 'tis very certain that this is their Design, and that the Enemy pretend to make a Descent upon Languedoc both by Sea and by Land. Being no longer employ'd in the Islands, their Naval For­ces may help to execute this Attempt.

Now to prevent this Storm, I desire you to advance to Narbonne with all Expedition; take the Sieur d' Argencourt along with you, to see what is necessary to be done there, and accordingly put every thing in order without delay. Post the Regiment of Languedoc in some neighbouring place, to help you in case of need. Order all the Com­mons of the Province to be ready, as likewise the Gen­tlemen and Nobility, and lay up all the Corn you can get in the Country, at Narbonne. We have already written to Monsieur de Vitry, to send you his Regiment; and to the Messieurs d' Harcourt, and Bourdeaux, to get the Naval Forces ready to come to your assistance. I make no doubt, but that by the help of God, and your diligence, the Enemy will be as warmly received in Languedoc as they were in the Islands.

I beg of you not to neglect this Advice; and though you see but little appearance of their coming to visit you, yet take it for a certain Truth. I writ to Monsieur de Nar­bonne, to acquaint him that this is no Chimerical News; as likewise to desire him to second your good Intentions upon this occasion. Monsieur de Barraut has receiv'd Orders [Page 92] some time ago, to raise the Militia, which is now in a State of readiness to defend the Country of Foix. Mon­sieur de la Vrillerie has sent him word to march with them to your assistance in case of necessity, and has sent you his Majesty's Dispatch to that purpose; as also another to Monsieur de [...]ry, to send you his Regiment. You may command both of them to joyn you whenever you judge it expedient. In the mean time, be assur'd of the conti­nuance of my Affection, and that I am, and ever will be,

LETTER LXXX. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

J Was extremely pleas'd to learn by the Sieur Arnauld the good condition of your Army, and the forwardness of the Siege you are now engag'd in, where I hope, as heartily as your self can do, that you'll find a speedy and fortunate Success.

You have been already inform'd, that Orders were sent to Monsieur de la Meilleraye to post himself near you, and joyn you with his Troops, if you shou'd have any occa­sion for them; having sent you this advice by the same Courrier that brought him the King's Dispatch upon this Subject.

The taking of Garde by the Count, about which you writ to me, fell out very luckily. As soon as ever we knew of it here, a Warrant was immediately dispatch'd to Mon­sieur de Belle-Jambe, who is at St. Quintin, to examine him, and afterwards to do with him as he saw convenient. If you have not as yet sent the above-mention'd Garde to St. Quintin aforesaid; pray take care to get him conducted thither in safety, it being of great importance to make an Example of him.

The Advantage which the Sieur Gassion has obtain'd over the Enemy, has without doubt put them in some Conster­nation, [Page 93] I am exceeding glad that he has begun so fortu­nately, and doubt not but he will continue to do the same upon all occasions that shall present themselves to the Ad­vantage of the King's Service, being so well acquainted as I am, with his Courage, Fidelity, and Affection. Be as­sur'd that I shall always be,

I have hitherto delay'd to dispatch this Courrier again to you, because we have no News here to send you; and I had kept him here still, but that I was afraid you wou'd be in some pain about us. Monsiuer de Noyers has sent you an account of all that has hap­pen'd in this part of the World, to which I have nothing to add, but to conjure you, my Lord, to take particular care of your Person; for I desire your preservation as heartily as I do my own.

I am overjoy'd to learn by Monsieur Arnauld, the state of your Circumvallation. I earnestly request you to make the Trenches of your Attacks so good, that Soldiers and Gentlemen of Quality may be preserv'd safe in them; because your Military Men are such Enemies to all Sieges, that if they see they cannot be tolerably secur'd, they grow sick of them immediately: But when they once see that due care is taken of them, I hope they'll relish the Employ­ment so well, that after Landrechy is reduc'd, we may pretend to go upon some greater Exploit. In God's Name, have a care of your Person, and do not expose your self to no purpose.

Those that come from your Army, give me such good assurances of the great Care, and Diligence, and Affection, which the Sieur N. has express'd for his Majesty's Service there, that I find my self ob­liged to tell you, that if 'tis really so, and you have not any reason to question his Fideli­ty, I am of opinion that he ought not to be remo­ved till such time as we have farther Light in­to the matter, notwithstanding what I writ to you in my former Letter. However, I leave all to your discretion.

LETTER LXXXI. To the same.

ALtho' I have already return'd an Answer to the Let­ter you sent me by Monsieur Arnauld, yet I cannot let him depart towards you, without giving him this, the chief business of which is, to assure you always of my Af­fection and Service, and that I will lose no opportunity to give you all the convictions of it I can.

Just now I have receiv'd a Letter from the Messenger whom I sent to Compeigne and Chauny, to see the Ammu­nition which is in both those places carry'd to Guise, where­in he sends me word, that within three Days, there will be at the place above-mention'd, above an hundred thousand weight of Powder and Bullets, and Match and Lead in proportion.

Thus, my Lord, I hope you'll want nothing to carry on your Siege, or any other Enterprize you shall take in hand afterwards. I am,

We have just now receiv'd News from Germany, which is to this effect, That Picolomini has been these six Days at Worms; that he stays there for the Supplies which Galasse is to send him; with which he is af­terwards to re-inforce the Cardinal Infant. You have heard to be sure of the Defeat of part of Duke Charles's Troops, by the Duke of Weymar.

LETTER LXXXII. To the same.

Monsieur de Coüeslin being desirous to see the Siege of Landrechy, I wou'd not suffer him to depart before I had given you by him fresh assurances of my Affection towards you, which is as great as you can desire. He will acquaint you with all the News of the Court, as al­so how impatient we are to know from you all remarka­ble Passages that happen in your Quarters. Leaving him to discourse this matter with you more at large, I con­clude this Letter with assuring you that I am,

LETTER LXXXIII. To the same.

THE King is so impatient to hear how the Siege of Landrechy goes forward, and how Affairs stand in your part of the World, that finding Monsieur de Pulluau is not come back, as I expected, I resolved to send the Sieur Saladin immediately to you, to know how the Siege is ad­vanced, and what the Enemy is doing, that I might give his Majesty an account of all. I repose so great a confi­dence in the success of his Arms, in your Prudence, and in your Care, that I doubt not in a short time, to receive that satisfaction which I proposed to my self at first from your Enterprize. For my own particular, I desire it so much the more, because besides the Reputation which this [Page 96] Action will give the King's Affairs, you will acquire no little Glory by it; towards which I shall freely contribute all that lies in my power, as being with all sincerity,

LETTER LXXXIV. To the Cardinal de la Vallette.

NOT being able to stay till your Courrier had refresh'd himself, I send you now another with thirty thou­sand Franks, that you might not want Money so much as in your Imagination. Besides this, you may take up thir­ty thousand Livres, that are in the hands of the Sieur Cohon, to whom Monsieur de Noyers order'd the Messenger that brings you the thirty thousand Livres to deliver them; and 'tis left wholly to you to lay out this Money as you shall see occasion.

Every one here knows well enough what a Train of Difficulties attend a Siege, and therefore don't desire that you should hasten your Attacks more than you can do it in Prudence. I can assure you that this is not only his Ma­jesty's Opinion, but likewise of all those that have the honour to be near his Person.

Monsieur de la Meilleraye is marched to joyn you, accord­ing to the Orders he has receiv'd from hence, occasion'd by what you writ to us some time ago, viz. that you wanted to be re-inforced with some Troops. He is ready to act as you shall order him; the only reason why we sent him, being to execute your commands, either on the Siege, or any where else, where you think fit to employ him.

Since you are of opinion, that you still want Horses to fetch in your Provisions, we are going to raise two hun­dred more, in order to relieve yours when they begin to be harrassed. As for the Artillery, Monsieur de la Meille­raye may joyn yours, with that which was design'd for him, in case you have occasion for it; and thus I hope [Page 97] you'll be supply'd with every thing necessary to carry on your Design.

Bergerac told me as from you, that you have receiv'd advice, that the Enemy are taking abundance of Cannon out of Sedan, to be employ'd against us. We cannot ima­gine what shou'd be the meaning of it, because they do nothing at Sedan, as we are inform'd by the Mareschal de Châtillon, who acquaints us with what passes there.

I beg of you, that as you continue your Attacks, which you send me word were begun last Night, you wou'd not forget to finish your Lines of Circumvallation; and rest assur'd that nothing that lies in our power, shall be omitted which may facilitate the reduction of the place.

Knowing that the Enemy may be in a condition to make some Effort by the end of this Month, the King whom I shall accompany, makes account to be at Soissons about that time, to strengthen either by his Presence, or by the addition of his own Troops, your Army, which perhaps may want such a Re-inforcement. Be assur'd that in whatsoever place 'tis my destiny to be, I am, and ever shall be,

LETTER LXXXV. To the Cardinal de la Vallette.

THO' I have nothing at present to write to you, yet I cou'd not let the Sieur de Bergerac go, without giving him this Letter, to assure you of the continuance of my Affection and Service, on which you may certainly depend upon all occasions.

We begin to have News of Picolomini, that he has not above eight or nine thousand Men in all with him, half Horse, and half Foot. Monsieur de Châtillon has got his Forces together, and has a sufficient power with him to despise all the Efforts that the Enemy can make on that side. The King will be infallibly at Soissons or [...]on by the end of this Month.

The Sieur de Saintou has taken care to send away all those things that Monsieur de la Meilleraye said he had a necessary occasion for. We will not fail to supply you with every thing that may be expected from us. Rest satisfy'd of this, and that I am,

LETTER LXXXVI. To the same.

I Am overjoy'd to find by you that the Siege of Landre­chy is so fairly advanc'd. We are in hopes to hear e­very Day better News than other; for places that are reduc'd to such a Condition as yours is, make no long opposition, when they once begin to decline.

I have spoken to the King about what you were pleased to write to me, that it was high time to find out a Go­vernour for the Town. His Majesty was of opinion, that the two fittest Men in your Army, were Nettancourt, and Vaubecourt; but the latter he thinks the properer of the two, in regard of Nettancourt's Religion, which wou'd extremely prejudice the reputation of his Majesty, and check the progress we may expect to make in Flanders. So you must put the aforesaid Sieur de Vaubecourt with his Regiment, and such other Troops as you shall judge con­venient, into the place, as well to guard as to fortifie it.

We continue to make a considerable Progress in Bur­gundy, as well on the part of Monsieur de Longueville, as of the Duke of Weymar, and the Count de Gransay.

Landrechy will balance the loss of Hermestein; and after this we will push our fortune farther in Flanders.

The King will set forward by the end of this Month, as I have already sent you word, for Laon. I am persuaded that two or three Days before our departure, we shall hear the agreeable News that you have pluck'd down the Stag that you have been chasing. I am, and always shall be,

The Hollanders embark'd some fifteen Days ago at Ramekins, but the Wind was so contrary, that we don't know which way they are gone. However, we are certain that they will do us some notable Service.

LETTER LXXXVII. To the same.

YOU will receive two of my Letters in one Day. The latter comes to inform you that the Hollanders having been in great Pain at some Reports that have been scatter'd abroad, that your Army consists of no more than eight or nine thousand Men; I beseech you, that for the future you will not suffer the Commissaries that make the Reviews, to order their Accounts, so as has been practised of late. They cannot be too exact to set down no more Men than they find in the Army; but then 'tis reasona­ble they should put those in the Number, that are reckon'd in Pay. Now in their present Supputations, they never rec­kon the Captain, the Lieutenant, the Ensign, the two Serge­ants, the Drummer, the Haut-boy, and the Quartermaster; nor what is more, the three Men that are allowed to the three great Officers, for want of which they are forced to take other Soldiers, when their Baggage marches. Thus not reckoning in every Company the eleven Men that are effectually there, it comes to pass, that in a Regiment consisting of twenty Companies, we lose two hundred and twenty Men. By this means the Enemy having al­ways Spies in our Army, and knowing that People are sel­dom guilty of making their numbers less than they are, imagine that we are fewer than in reality we are; which may occasion a world of inconveniences.

The Sieur Usquerque, who is Secretary to the States, has been again with us, to be informed of the Truth of your Army, which is represented so small on this side, that it looks as if these Gentlemen wou'd use this as an Excuse for not doing the great Service we expected from them. 'Tis to little purpose for us to tell them how things [Page 100] really are; for People are apter to believe the flying Re­ports of an Army than our Assurances; which is an un­speakable damage to us.

We have dispatched two Courriers to the States, to sa­tisfie them that his Majesty's Forces at Landrechy, make up in all eighteen thousand Foot, and eight thousand Horse. And I believe we don't over-reckon our selves, since we paid for almost thirteen thousand Foot, and se­ven thousand Horse, when you had no more than the Forces that you carried with you at first; and Monsieur de la Meilleraye afterwards joyned you, as I compute, with five thousand Men, and fifteen hundred Horse.

We have sent to Monsieur de Chastillon to remedy the same ill way of reckoning, which might happen in his Army, if we did not take care to prevent it, that by this means we may hinder all manner of Spies from represent­ing us to be weaker than we are; which is one of those things that did us the most mischief last Year, and ser­ved to make our Enemies pass for much stronger than they really were, to their great advantage.

At last the Count has made his Peace with the King; but he is to reside at Sedan for some Years. He signed the Oath of Fidelity at the same time that Pico­lomini had sent Orders to him, and after the Queen-Mother had signed a Treaty at Brussels with the Cardi­nal Infant, to engage him beforehand. Bautru parts to morrow, with the King's Almoner, to receive his Oath upon the Holy Evangelists. This is all I can tell you about this Affair, which I hope will have a happy Conclusion. In the mean time, I conjure you to believe that I am,

LETTER LXXXVIII. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

'TIS impossible for me to represent to you his Maje­sty's Joy for the taking of Landrechy, which is so great, that it can receive no addition. As for my self, besides the Joy I receive for the prosperity of France, I have a particular one for the Glory you have acquir'd by this great Action. No Man could have carried on the Siege of that place with more Prudence than you have done. I am ravish'd that you have escaped wounding all this while, fince I am inform'd by all those Gentlemen that are come from thence, that as you very worthily discharg'd your Employment, so you did amiss in one point, which obliges you to take as great care of your Person, as I find you neglected it. I conjure you to change this way of procedure for the future; as also to remember, that if the King should lose a Person of your consequence, all the Advantages we might otherwise obtain over the Ene­my, would be inconsiderable, and your Friends incapable of receiving Consolation.

Monsieur Arnauld has acquainted us with what you think your self able to do at present, which really, in my opinion, is the best Design that can be taken in hand. By this means you will not ruine your Army, you will secure your Winter-Quarters; and the Hollanders, who continually ask us to enter into the Heart of the Country, will be satisfy'd, if you can but be able to fortifie the Post there, which is proposed to you. His Majesty gives you full power to act as you shall see convenient; and thinks fit, as you will find by the Dispatch of Monsieur de Noyers, that you pursue those Designs which were com­municated to us by the above-mention'd Sieur Arnauld. I hope you will prove as successful in them, as you were in the beginning of this Campagne. The Troops of Pi­colomini are not as yet come up; and the Prince of Orange, who has waited twenty days at Ramekins for fair Wea­ther, has been constrain'd by the badness of the Season, [Page 102] to disembark his Army, and go upon another Design: He resolved last Thursday, as Saladin, whom I sent away to Monsieur de Charnacé, brings me word, upon the Siege of Breda.

We have sent Vercourt back again to you, who talks nothing but Miracles of his Design. If the place is such as he represents it, capable of being fortified, and sup­ported by other Posts which you may take upon the Sam­bre, it will be very advantageous for us, and serve to in­commode the Enemy. I return you no Answer to the Compliments you were pleased to send me about Mon­sieur de la Meilleraye, whom I esteem sufficiently happy, if he has been able to please you. The first Design of the Prince of Orange wou'd have obliged us to put our selves in a readiness to march another way, according as he should have had occasion for us. But now since we are more at liberty, you may act as you please. He is exceedingly well pleased with your Civilities; and I am assur'd that he will always render to you that which is your due.

I hope that before Breda is taken, we shall do some­thing worth the while; and perhaps some Opportunity may present it self to you, which neither you nor I think of at present. I heartily wish for one that may put it into my power, to convince you by my Actions, how affectionately I am, and ever shall be,

We have receiv'd several Advices from Brussels, giving us to understand, that the Spaniards despise us in such a manner; that besides the advantage which the taking of Landrechy has given us, I have a par­ticular Joy upon that Account, because it will make them see, that we are more capable of do­ing them a Mischief, than they believe, and inso­sently give out.

LETTER LXXXIX. To the same.

THE King advancing now towards Soissons and Laon, as I have already sent you word, I take Pen in hand to acquaint you, that his Majesty wou'd be very glad to take such measures, that if it were possible, his Journey might not be wholly fruitless: For this reason he has had some Thoughts, that while you advance into the Enemy's Country, pursuant to your Designs, he might, under the covert of your Army, make a sort of a Blockade about Capelle, by which means that place, in all probability, wou'd in a short time fall into his Hands.

Before he embarks in this Design, his Majesty desires that you wou'd send a Party of Horse to view the Coun­try round about the place, commanded by some under­standing Person, who might observe what may be done to incommode it. Bezancon, who has been there, tells us, that to hinder any Provisions from coming into the Town, there needs no more but to place a good Garrison at a Village which lies between Avenes and Capelle, call'd Estren, where some Forces might conveniently intrench them­selves. I am apt to believe that this alone will not be sufficient: Now if it were possible without taking off any of your Troops from what you have design'd, to get three thousand Foot, and a thousand Horse, to be em­ploy'd in the reducing of the above-mention'd place, this small Progress, joyn'd to those you will make, would put a happy End enough to this Campagne. I conclude this Letter with assuring you that I am, and ever will be,

LETTER XC. To the same.

I Send you this Letter to acquaint you, that we have sent you fifty thousand Franks to pay for the Fortifications of Landrechy, and those new Works you intend to make; and twenty eight thousand Franks for two Months Pay due to the Garrisons of Landrechy and Chasteau en Cambresis. In a word, you shall never want Money for the future to carry on any of your Designs, however you may have been disappointed hitherto. The main point of the Bu­siness is, to lose no time; for we are assur'd on all hands, that the Consternation in Flanders is so great, that we ne­ver had a fairer opportunity to undertake some noble En­terprize than now. All our Advices bring us word, that Picolomini has in effect but fifteen hundred Horse, fit for Battel; and from five to six thousand Foot; with five or six thousand Women.

If you have found out any convenient Post, that you know is proper to be fortify'd, I am confident you will lose no time till you have made your self Master of it, this being a Matter of great importance.

We have sent Vercourt forward on his Journey, who made the Proposal you know of, and must by this time be within a few Miles of you. He has all along propo­sed to surprize the place he nam'd to you, which, cou'd it be effected, it wou'd, in my opinion, be of mighty ad­vantage to us, because we have reason to fear, that if we lay Siege to Maubeuge before we have possessed our selves of this place, the Enemy will pour some of their Troops into it, which will render the Affair more dif­ficult afterwards. But, my Lord, you must take every thing I make bold to propose to you, whether in this, or any other matter, as my bare Thoughts, of which you are to take no notice, any farther than you find them rea­sonable; it being impossible to give good Advice at so great a distance.

What I desire most passionately of all is, that we may employ the remainder of the Campagne to good purpose, as well on our side, as all the rest, where we have begun it so happily.

You must remember to keep your Soldiers in that strict Discipline, that the People of Landrechy may find no ill treatment at their Hands, endeavouring to avoid all Dis­orders, as much as possible, in that place, and every where else. In the mean time rest assured that I am, and ever shall be with all sincerity,

You shall most certainly receive a Month's Pay for your whole Army this Month; it shall be sent towards the 20th. at farthest.

LETTER XCI. To the same.

AFter the King had heard the Relation of the Sieur du Plessis Bezancon, his Majesty came to be of the same Opinion with your self, viz. that it wou'd be much bet­ter to make Head against the Enemy upon the Sambre, with a powerful Body, and to attack Avenes forcibly with another, than to block up Capelle.

We have again dispatch'd the aforesaid Sieur du Plessis to you, to let you know what Troops we can spare to joyn yours, that so you may consider how you wou'd di­stribute them, to put these two Designs in execution, in case you judge it worth the while, and that an occasion does not present it self to you, to undertake some great­er Exploit, which oftentimes happens when a Man thinks the least of it.

We take it for granted, that the first thing we ought to go upon, and which you have already taken care for, is to see whether the Design of N, proposed by several Per­sons, [Page 106] be really advantageous, and probable to succeed. If the success of it is feasible, as Vercourt proposes it, 'tis highly probable, that being in the heart of the Enemy's Country, we shall most effectually incommode him.

The Prince of Orange has sent to inform us what a for­wardness the Siege of Breda was in on the 28th. of July. His Lines of Circumvallation were finish'd, so that he lay under no apprehensions of being dislodg'd. He pro­mises himself to be Master of the place by the 20th. of September, and makes no great account of the Garrison, as knowing it consists of no more than two thousand five hundred Men. He informs us, that the greatest part of the Towns in Flanders, and Breda among the rest, are but slenderly provided with Ammunition, and encoura­ges us to undertake some Siege in the heart of the Country, meaning Mons or Valenciennes. I don't send you this account, as you perhaps may imagine, to consi­der whether these things are practicable, but only to ac­quaint you with what has been communicated to us.

On the other hand, we have surprized a Letter at Sea, written by the Cardinal Infant to the Emperour, after the taking of Landrechy, wherein he complains of Picolomini and tells him, their Affairs are in a deplorable condition, if the French, making a right use of their Victory, ad­vance into the heart of the Country. He positively af­sures him, that he cannot take the Field against the Hol­landers with less than thirteen thousand Foot, and five thousand Horse; and that he has none but Balancon to op­pose to the French, who has no more than five thousand Foot, and thirty Troops of Horse, reckoning Picolomini's Forces, which he says don't amount to eighteen hun­dred Horse, and five thousand Foot, altho' the other wou'd have them pass for more. He concludes that none but God can remedy their Affairs.

Now considering all this, which is most certainly true, I leave it to your Prudence to see what may be done with the Re-inforcement that is marching up to you.

We can strengthen you with fifteen hundred Horse, composed of a thousand commanded by the Sieur de Bussy, and five hundred more that are at Doulans.

We can likewise give you the Regiments of Picardy, Navarre, and the two Brezez, that are quartered near Dou­lans; which, reckoning the Officers, make up four thou­sand effective Men in all.

More than this, we can give you the Regiments of Belnave, Xaintonge, Bachevilliers, Castlenau, and Montmeze, that will make up four thousand Men more.

Now I leave it to your consideration, whether when you have receiv'd this Re-inforcement, w [...]h you may expect by the fifteenth of this Month, you may not be a­ble to form two seperate Bodies, one consisting of seven thousand Horse, and eight or ten thousand Foot, to march against the Enemy; and the other of two thousand Horse, and the rest of your Infantry, to attack any such place as you shall judge convenient.

Besides the above-mention'd Forces, I am of opinion we shall be able next September, to give you six Regi­ments more, viz. Sauvebeuf, Rochegiffard, Nissay, Saint-Aubin, Aubeterre, Langeron; which within these two Months have been set on foot anew, with their old Of­ficers. You shall assuredly receive a Month's Pay before the Month is out.

As for Money, which will be necessary for the sup­port of your Troops, I promise it shall never be want­ing. At this very Moment, besides the fifty thousand Li­vres that were remitted to you a few Days ago for this purpose, I have sent you thirty thousand Livres more, that if you make an Attempt upon N, you may want nothing.

All that I have written to you above being presuppos'd, although the King gives you full liberty to act as you shall see most convenient for his Service; and 'tis a diffi­cult matter for a Man to give his Advice at a great di­stance, yet for all that, I am of opinion, that if you cou'd succeed at N, and the place is really as advantage­ous as it is represented to be, it wou'd be no very hard matter, by keeping a considerable Body in all the good Country that lies between this Post and Maubeuge, to take Avenes, with a few Horse, and no great number of Foot.

In a word, My Lord, I leave all to your Prudence, be­seeching you to believe, that as I by no means desire you to attempt any thing above your power, so we at least ex­pect that you should perform all you are capable of doing.

Heaven be praised, every thing goes well on all sides. We do better and better every Day in the Franche-Comté. Monsieur de Châtillon is in hopes to make some good pro­gress in Luxemburgh. And just now we have receiv'd Ad­vice, that on the First of this Month the Duke of Savoy met the whole Spanish Cavalry near Verseil beyond Sezia, and resolv'd to attack them with Vigour; Which [Page 108] he perform'd so well, that there are at least two hundred of them dead upon the Spot, two hundred taken Prisoners, and above four hundred Horses made a Booty. Spadin, and several other Persons of great consideration were kil­led in this A [...]on.

This, My Lord, is all I have to communicate to you in this Letter. I have no more to add, but my desires that you wou'd believe me to be with all sincerity,

Le Plessis Bezancon will part within a Day or two. You must excuse me, if I tell you, that in truth you write with so much deference of 44, that I am afraid you are not satisfy'd with him. All the Letters he writes to me, are full of Expressions of Gratitude for the great Civilities he has receiv'd from you: He looks upon it as an honour to be under your com­mand; but shou'd he ever do any thing to disoblige you, I wou'd most assuredly disown him, My O­pinion is, that we ought to end this Campagne as we begun; for since the Prince of Orange cannot march into Flanders, as he proposed in his first De­sign, nothing obliges us now to separate his Maje­sty's Forces any longer. However, if you find the Party aforesaid a Burthen to you, the Friendship between you and me is great enough to make me find an Invention to rid you of him.

SInce the writing of this Letter, the Sieur Talon your Se­cretary, brings us advice from the Sieur de Roquepine, who commands for you at Metz, that after an exact view of Picolomini's Troops that are quarter'd between Treves and Vaudreurange, he judges them to be reduc'd to six thou­sand Foot, and eight hundred Horse. Since which advice, the aforesaid Sieur de Roquepine assures us, that they lose so many Men, as well by want of Provisions, as by sickness, that he believes they cannot be above five thousand five hundred at most. By this we may conclude that it will be impossible for him to march into Flanders at the head of 13 or 1400 Horse, and 4000 Foot; so that by God's help he will not be in a capacity to do us a Mischief.

I conclude from this Account, and the Siege of Breda, that till the 20th. of August, or thereabout, you will have no great Business upon your hands; because the Spaniards will endeavour all they can, to hinder the Lines of Cir­cumvallation from being finish'd at Breda; and when they find there is no possibility of saving that Town, 'tis probable they will come to attack us in their own Coun­try, and that we may be so happy as to conclude this Cam­pagne with a successful Battle.

I conjure you to take care that Landrechy be well forti­fy'd, and that nothing be wanting there.

LETTER XCII. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

I Was extremely glad to be inform'd by yours of the 9th. of this Month, after what manner Affairs went on your side. You found by my former Letter, which I gave Monsieur de Combour to deliver to you, that the King gives you full liberty to act at your Discretion, and that your Advices and ours did not differ.

I never knew particularly what sort of a place St. Guil­lain was, for which reason I writ to you concerning it, as a thing fit to be undertaken, if you judged it worth the while. The Difficulties we must expect to find there now, upon account of the two Men that were hanged, have wholly alter'd the Face of this Affair; so that we must comfort our selves, if Maubeuge, as you represent it, can do us the same kindness. In such a case it will be ne­cessary for you to fortifie your self there as well as you can. I did not so much apprehend the difficulty of ta­king St. Guillain, as that of keeping it, which cou'd not be done without great Convoys, that require abundance of Troops, and in the Winter are almost impossible. If we cou'd take Avenes, as I most assuredly believe we may, we shou'd have reason to say that this Campagne was em­ploy'd happily enough. This is therefore the Point to which we must stick; and by keeping the Sambre, whereof [Page 110] now you are Master, still in your power, you may hinder the Enemy from coming to the relief of it.

Bezancon, when he was here, promised to do Wonders in the good ordering of the Army; for which reason we have sent him word to go to wait upon you, that by your Orders he might as far as is possible, hinder the Sol­diers from making havock of the Corn; for I well fore­see that it will be an impossible Matter to furnish so great a Body with Corn enough, if you don't make them sub­list upon what you find in the Country; where, as I am informed, 'tis exceedingly plentiful. In the mean time, one Touches, of Metz, is gone to convoy four or five hundred Muids of Corn that are now at Guise, to Landrechy, in which he will be forced to employ more than two hundred Horses which you demanded; and which have been employ'd in carrying one thing or another ever since you have taken the Field.

A Message has been sent to Monsieur Lambert to joyn de Bussy's Army at Estren, between Capelle and Avenes, and to stay there till you send him farther Orders.

As for the Owners of the Horses that bring Provisions to your Army, they shall have all due encouragement to make them continue in the Service. In the mean time you must take care to prevent them from leaving you.

I have seen a Letter of the Sieur Arnauld, dated the 10th. of this Month, and written to the Reverend F. Joseph, wherein he wonders that the Month's Pay, which, accord­ing to his account, ought to have arrived at the Army on the 15th. was not yet come. The aforesaid Sieur indeed, when he was here, sollicited for a Month's Pay for the 15th. upon which I was resolv'd to use all my Interest with Monsieur de Bullion, to have it got ready, and do the same every Day, and yet I cannot bring him to name a­ny precise time. All that I can assure you of at present, is that it shall be ready without fail some time this Month.

As for Money to carry on the Works, you have alrea­dy receiv'd the fifty thousand Livres sent for Landrechy, and thirty thousand more, which l' Espine brought you for St. Guillain or Maubeuge. I sent you word that you shou'd want nothing; and here I repeat the same Promise to you. I cou'd wish with all my Heart that you had such a brave. Fellow with you as Terrail was, who petarded so ma­ny Towns belonging to the Hollanders for the Arch-Duke, for that perhaps is one of the things that we want to try, since the greatest part of the Enemy's Towns lie naked and [Page 111] unprovided, I am persuaded you will lose no opportunity to undertake any thing that you judge proper to be done for the King's Service: For which reason I shall for­bear to say any more to you; only give me leave to assure you that I am, and always will be,

Pray send me the Plan of Maubeuge, and the Design of the Fortifications you intend to make there, or that of St. Guillain, if you were ever able by chance to procure it. You must use all means, my Lord, to end this Campagne happily, to which we will contribute on our side all that lies in our power.

LETTER XCIII. To the same.

AFter I had heard Monsieur de la Meilleraye upon the Sub­ject of his Journey, I am of Opinion, that of all the Designs which he proposes on your part, there are only two that can be reasonably undertaken; that is to say, ei­ther the Siege of Cambray, or that of Avenes.

That of Cambray indeed is of much greater importance, but it is to be feared that the Season is already too far advanced, and that we have not all the Preparatives re­quisite for such a Design, especially People to supply the Army, so as several Accidents, which often happen un­expectedly, may require.

As for that of Avenes, besides that it is more feasible, it seems to be more agreeable to the present state of our Af­fairs. It will stand us in mighty stead to preserve all the Posts we have taken upon the Sambre, the keeping of which is a sort of Circumvallation for the aforesaid Siege. So that by making our selves Masters of Beaumont, Solre, and Chimay, if we please, the place will be surrounded with­out [Page 112] being formally so. During this Siege, the greatest part of his Majesty's Horse being intrench'd at Maubeuge, with four thousand Men, will make Head against the Enemy, who will not dare to oppose or give them Battel; and we may make several Attempts upon them in Parties.

What will chiefly contribute to the execution of this Design, will be to lose no time to detach the Troops that are to march thither, out of your Army, and to give them necessary Orders to joyn on some prefix'd Day at the above-mention'd place.

In the mean time, my Lord, if you'll give me leave to tell you my Opinion: You have three things to do; in the first place, you must secure Maubeuge, whether by for­tifying the whole Town, or by making a good Redoubt, capable of maintaining the Lodgment of the Horse that will be in the place. You must make as great a Maga­zine of Corn and Forrage at Maubeuge as is possible, and preserve the Country behind the Sambre, as far as the Oyse and the Meuse, that you may take up Winter-Quarters there for the greatest part of our People.

After all I have said to you, the King entirely leaves it to your own choice, to undertake which of these two Designs you judge most proper. However, if you shou'd have a fair opportunity in the mean time to petard any place, you wou'd do well to make the Experiment. Monsieur de la Meilleraye tarries here two Days, and then he will most as­suredly return to you: But we thought it convenient to dispatch this Courrier to you beforehand, that neither Mon­sieur de la Meilleraye's tarrying here two Days longer, nor a­ny other consideration, shou'd make you lose one single Moment, to dispose every thing for the execution of what you shall pitch upon, now you have seen the King's Senti­ments upon the matter. I am,

LETTER XCIV. To the same.

THE Sieur de la Garde being arriv'd here from Colen, and particularly from Breda, about an Hour after the departure of Monsieur de la Meilleraye, occasions me to dis­patch this Courrier to you, to acquaint you for certain, that you have no reason to apprehend that the Cardinal Infant will quit the Design he has form'd, and the Post he has taken, to hinder the Siege of Breda, to come and give you the least disturbance; things being come to such a Point, that the Spaniards fortifie themselves in all places thro' which the Convoys of the States may come, in order to hinder them; so that the Prince of Orange has sent the King word, that he is like to find himself very much embarrass'd, if we don't make a powerful diversion on this side. 'Tis therefore your part, my Lord, to act with the greatest Vigour you can, without amusing your self at what we proposed to you, to make a Line of Circum­vallation, .................... which must be in­fallibly carried if it is warmly attack'd; and having no other Enemies to fear than what you have before you.

I have sent a fresh Dispatch to the Mareschal de Chastil­lon, to engage him to undertake the Attack of ..........

If our 84 don't do something considerable, it is to be fear'd that 2600 finding the difficulty of his .......... will not ........ with the 76, for to .......... with ................ This, if you please, shall lie betwixt me and you. I conjure you therefore upon this consideration, to lose no time; and believe me that I shall be proud of an opportunity to convince you by my Acti­ctions, that I am with all sincerity,

LETTER XCV. To the same.

THE King having by my former Letters, to which I have receiv'd your Answer, given you to understand his Intentions, nothing now remains for me to say to you: 'Tis your concern to fortifie and keep your Post at Maubeuge, as you have proposed, and to attack Avenes, while the Mareschal de Chastillon makes account to go to attack Mommedy, or some other place.

You will receive the hundred thousand Franks which you demand for your Works, besides the ten thousand Crowns which you design to employ at Maubeuge. No di­ligence shall be wanting on our side to assist you; and pray give me leave as your hearty Friend and Servant, to beg of you that nothing be wanting on yours. I confess I was astonish'd when I found that your Fortifications at Mau­beuge were not begun, and that Beaumont and Solre were not as yet taken. This is all we have to represent to you from these parts, it belongs to you to do all that lies in your power. My Cosen de la Meilleraye, and the Con­clusion of this Letter, will assure you of my Affection, and that I shall always be,

LETTER XCVI. To the same.

I Have dispatch'd the Bearer hereof to you, to bring you four thousand Pistoles, to begin your Works. Before this Summ is half spent, you shall have the remainder of what you desir'd. Thus nothing shall be wanting to you [Page 115] that may serve to carry on your Designs. The two Swiss Companies that the King sends, begin their march to day; and the six Companies of French Guards that are quar­ter'd near Compeigne, are to march to morrow.

The Duke of Weymar has passed the Rhine, and since that has twice beaten John de Wert, who came to attack him in his own Retrenchments. He has by this time quitted them, and advances forward, as he sends me word. The last time that John de Wert attacked him, he left a thou­sand of his own Men upon the Spot. This is all I have to say to you at present, who am, and always will be,

LETTER XCVII. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

I Have received your Letter, dated the 23d. of this Month. In answer to which, I must take the free­dom to tell you, that if you imagine the King is not sa­tisfy'd with your Services, you wrong him; and if in con­sequence of that, you think some ill Offices have been done you here, you are much mistaken. This I can as­sure you, that no one has mention'd your Name without doing you that Justice which you deserve; but indeed if to extol a Man's Merits as high as 'tis possible, be a Tres­pass, a world of People here have trespassed against you, who I am afraid will never repent, or beg your pardon for doing it. In the mean time, I think you cannot take it amiss, if as you have managed his Majesty's Affairs ex­tremely well, we are so vain as to wish you had mana­ged them better; and that having receiv'd certain Infor­mations two Months ago, of the Enemy's weakness du­ring all that time, we desire you had made a farther Pro­gress in their Country, if we cou'd have done it, which we have not. Such Desires are always reasonable, when they don't exceed the Bounds of possibility; and to say [Page 116] the truth, I don't believe there is any place in the World where this Decorum is better observ'd than here, where you must know you have such extraordinary Friends, that tho' they shou'd sometimes dispense with this Rule, yet they wou'd never do it where you are concerned. I must there­fore beg of you to quit these unjust Opinions, protesting to you by that Sincerity of which I always made pro­fession, that what I have told you is true. And since Diligence is one of the most requisite Qualifications in a Person that possesseth your Post, continue, I beseech you, to employ the remainder of the Campagne to as much advantage as you hitherto have done since the open­ing of it. The Siege of Breda goes on very well. The Advices you receiv'd that the Enemy had taken Nimme­guen, are false. The Hollanders don't seem to apprehend the least danger from the Spaniards.

Monsieur de Chastillon has defeated seven or eight hundred of the Enemy's Horse in Luxemburg, who came with a De­sign to beat up one of his Quarters, and three hundred of them lost their Lives upon the place. He is now employ'd in the Siege of Damvilliers, where there are seven hun­dred Soldiers in Garrison, and about the same number of the Country Militia. He expects to reduce it by the 8th. of October at the farthest, by which time I don't question but that you'll have try'd every thing that carries any Face of Success: To which I shall contribute on my part all that lies in my power, since no Man honours you more, or is with greater sincerity than my self,

LETTER XCVIII. To the Duke of Hallwin.

HAving receiv'd certain advice that the Spaniards, who design to make a Descent upon Languedoc, main­tain a private intelligence in some places of that Pro­vince, upon which they ground their principal Designs, [Page 117] I thought my self obliged to inform you of this with all expedition, that you might take such a Course to pre­vent it, as you shall think necessary. Above all, you must keep a careful Eye upon Narbonne, Leucate, and o­ther frontier places to which it may be presum'd the Enemies design their first Onsets, or upon those Towns that are situate near the Sea, where they may land with the Vessels they have built for that purpose. I am satis­fy'd, that upon this, and all other occasions, wherein his Majesty's Service is concern'd, you'll behave your self with all the Care, Affection, and Diligence that can be expected from you. Upon which Assurance I shall trou­ble you with no more Lines, but only add, that I am, and always will be,

LETTER XCIX. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

SInce some unexpected Difficulties, that cou'd not be foreseen, have knocked your design upon Avenes in the Head, I can say nothing to it. We can only make our selves some amends by taking Capelle. I cou'd wish that we had known this Resolution four Days ago, having sent an Express to the Prince of Orange, that you had laid Siege to Avenes, and Monsieur de Chastillon to Damvilliers. We must dispatch another Messenger to him, to acquaint him with the reason of this Alteration; however I am afraid that this will make him judge ill of our intenti­ons, although you know well enough there is no reason for it. Since the Situation of Avenes is such, that it cannot well be attack'd at this Season of the Year, we must so contrive matters as to make it fall into our Hands this Winter, by the Difficulties they'll find to subsist a nu­merous Garrison wholly by Convoys, which we may ren­der in a manner impracticable to them, since we have Royaumont and Solre already in our Hands, and you design [Page 118] to make your self Master of Chimay: All which Garrisons, if they do but watch their opportunities, will soon ruine the Trade of the aforesaid Convoys.

One of the most important things is to fortifie Maubeuge strongly, and that with speed. Finding by the Letter you sent to me by the Sieur Arnaud d' Andilly, that you reckon the fortifying of it will cost fourscore thousand Franks, I have now sent you fifty thousand, which, with the thir­ty you have already receiv'd, will make up the above­mention'd Summ. I beg of you to carry on the Works with all diligence, and manage them so, that several Per­sons may be employ'd upon several Works, in order to make the greater haste. I can assure you, that although I have other Affairs of no less consequence upon my hands, which make me never pass a Night without thinking on them, and putting my Invention upon the rack to ad­vance them, yet I am sure I take as much care of your Business as I do of any thing else. There is a necessity not only to work hard upon the Fortifications of Maubeuge, but likewise upon those of Landrechy, of Chasteau-Cambresis, and those places you design to keep for your Winter-Quarters.

'Tis also necessary to lay up a sufficient Magazine of Corn at Maubeuge, that may last till Harvest-time, other­wise 'tis of no purpose to bestow Money upon fortifying it. For this effect, we have given twenty thousand Crowns to Gargan, to buy up all the Corn he can find in the Neighbourhood: If he shou'd not lay them out as we directed him, he wou'd do us a great Injury. Pray send me word whether he deals faithfully with us, and ob­lige him to it by the Authority you have over him. Thus I hope we shall be the sooner able to fill this Magazine, be­cause no Money shall be wanting for that purpose. Rest assur'd that I am, and ever will be,

IF I thought you wou'd not be inform'd by some o­ther hand, that the King is extremely displeased at the Siege of Capelle, I wou'd not acquaint you with it, for fear of making you uneasie; for which reason I cou'd conceal it no longer from you. Now my Hand is in, I must tell you farther, that he throws all the Blame upon [Page 119] Monsieur de la Meilleraye, and, by a glancing Stroke, upon me, saying, It was he that caused this Resolution to be taken, directly against his Orders. I must desire you not to be disturb'd at this unlucky Accident, which affects me more than it does any one else. Care has been taken to represent the unforeseen Difficulties that made the De­sign upon Avenes impracticable; and that you undertook the Siege, that now employs you, by the advice of all the principal Officers; but all this is suspected coming from my Mouth. For which reason I intreat you to send a Letter to Monsieur de Noyers, in which let there be a di­stinct and clear Relation how this Affair came to be re­solv'd upon. For God's sake never be afflicted for the matter, but take care to preserve your Person; and see that the Grand Master does the same.

LETTER C. To the Duke of Halwin.

BEing inform'd of a flying Report in your Govern­ment, that there is a design to transport Corn from thence, by vertue of a Pass-port which one of my Rela­tions has obtain'd, I purposely writ this Letter, to beg the favour of you, that in case any Person comes upon such an Errand, under pretence of a Pass-port, to hinder it from having any effect. You may very well imagine, that I am so far from consenting to have the Province robb'd of what is necessary for its Subsistence, that on the other hand, I wou'd contribute all that lies in my power to procure an abundance of all things there. I will not enlarge my self longer to convince you of this truth, being content to assure you at present, that I am, and ever will be,

LETTER CI. To the Cardinal de la Vallette.

I Writ so large a Letter to you yesterday, and Monsieur Arnaud d' Andilly, who is parted from hence, has re­ceiv'd such particular Instructions in all points, that I shou'd make but a sorry Compliment to his Under­standing, to entertain you with a tedious Discourse a­bout them. I shall only make bold once more to con­jure you, not to be afflicted at the Dissatisfaction his Ma­jesty has express'd upon your resolution to besiege Capelle instead of Avenes; for I can assure you, that you are not concern'd in it at all, it wholly falling upon Monsieur de la Meilleraye, and upon my self by a side Blow. You know well enough whether we are guilty or no. This gives me an assurance that his Majesty will find out the Truth at last, and show the same Favours to his Ser­vants as he has been accustom'd to do. It wou'd be con­venient for you to dispatch an Officer to the King, with the Minutes of the Debate when this Resolution was ta­ken. I am, and ever shall be, without the least Alte­ration,

LETTER CII. To the same.

I Cannot sufficiently lament the Death of Monsieur de Bussy, or be too apprehensive for the Wounds of Mon­sieur de Rambure. It was a terrible Misfortune, that only thirty of the Enemy, and the panic Fear of our own Men, shou'd produce so unlucky an Effect.

The King has bestow'd all Monsieur de Bussy's Places up­on his Son. He has likewise granted to Monsieur de Ca­stelnau the same Privilege that he uses to grant to the Captains of the Guards, when they lose their Ensigns. His Majesty designs to put one of his own uominating into the place; but then he will order him to give four thousand Crowns to the aforesaid Sieur de Castelnau, which is the Sum that the other Captains of the Guards usually re­ceive for it. Let me conjure you to make your Trenches as secure as you can contrive them.

I dispatch'd this Express on purpose to let you know that the King's Displeasure is over, that he is very sensi­ble it was impracticable to besiege Avenes, and that he is no longer angry with Monsieur de la Meilleraye. Besides what I have written to him about this Matter, I desire you to satisfie him of the truth of it, and to preserve your self carefully. Rest assur'd that I am,

LETTER CIII. To the Duke of Halwin.

'TIS so long ago since you were inform'd of the E­nemy's Design, that I am persuaded you are not surprized at their Descent upon Languedoc, and that you have long since put your self in a posture to oppose their Progress. The King does not question but that you will upon this occasion discover your Merits and Bravery, and, in short, do all that he has reason to expect from your Affection to his Service. His Majesty has sent the Sieur de Bellefonds, to serve in Quality of Mareschal de Camp about you; as also a Commission to Monsieur d' Argencourt, for the same Employ. He is content you shou'd make use of all the Forces that are in the Province; and Monsieur de Noyers has writ more particularly to you about it.

The Bishop of Nismes has sent me word, that the Dio­cess and City of Nismes have rais'd a Regiment, consisting of twelve hundred Men, that will be ready to march by the 15th. of this Month, and sends me word, that every one behaves himself so well in this common Danger, that the Spaniards will find it a much more difficult matter to get home again, than they found it easie to come there. I am consident you will omit nothing of your Care and Diligence to bring this about, and we shall in a short time hear the World speak of your great Exploits. In the mean time, I beg of you to believe that I will always set a just value upon your Services, as being,

LETTER CIV. To the Duke of Hallwin.

HIS Majesty judging it expedient, in this present Juncture, to send a Gentleman to you, to give Or­ders, and act in his Name, such things as you shall look upon to be of great importance to his Service; and ha­ving chosen Majola, Lieutenant of my Guards, to take this Journey, I wou'd not suffer him to depart before I had put this Letter into his Hands, to tell you, that as nothing well can be added to the Orders which you have laid down in your Government, to put it in a Conditi­on to oppose the Designs of the Enemy, or to the extraor­dinary trouble, which for this purpose you have under­gone, so nothing can give his Majesty so much content, as the Care and Vigilance you have shewn upon this Oc­casion. I don't tell you what a satisfaction it is to my self in particular, because you may easily imagine it by the sincerity of my Affection to you. I will only once more conjure you, to use your utmost Efforts to confirm the good Opinion which the King and his Servants have entertain'd of your Courage and Prudence, and let his [Page 123] Majesty's Enemies know to their cost, how formidable you are in the Field. This I dare affirm to you, that as no Man living is more affected at what concerns you than my self, so no Man can more earnestly wish that you shou'd acquire Glory and Reputation, to which I shall freely con­tribute all that lies in my power, as the aforesaid Sieur de Majola will more particularly inform you. Rest assur'd, that I am, and ever shall be,

LETTER CV. To the same.

I Add these few Lines to the Letter I writ to you yester­day, to conjure you, as far as I have any Interest in you, to attack the Spaniards with all possible Vigour, and not to give them time to fortifie themselves in Languedoc, as they have done towards St. John de Luz. They have not three thousand well-disciplin'd Men; all the rest are raw Fellows, as we are certainly inform'd. If you press them warmly, they'll infallibly run for it; and if you once put them to flight, you'll come off as victoriously as the late Mareschal de Schomberg did at Rhee, at Casal, and Castelnaudarry; and it will be no small Honour, let me tell you, to beat the Enemy out of your Government. I don't question but that you'll do your utmost upon this occasion, as I heartily encourage you. They that vigo­rously set upon the Spaniards, can never fail of bring­ing them to reason; but 'tis downright Madness to pretend to humble them by Patience and Delays. I heartily wish you may prove successful in this Af­fair, as well because it will be for his Majesty's Service, as for your own Reputation. Rest assur'd that no Man can love you better than my self, who am,

LETTER CVI. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

IM mediately upon the receipt of yours, dated Sept. 17. I sent this Courrier to you, in the first place to beg one Favour of you, tho' I know you need no sollicitation in it, which is to hasten your Siege as much as you can: Se­condly, to tell you that Monsieur de Chavigny sets out to morrow, to meet you, and will be next Tuesday Morning at Gapelle, where I pray don't let him go to the Trenches, a Man of his Profession having nothing to do there. He will communicate all our Thoughts to you. In the mean time, sending a Dispatch to Monsieur de Châtillon, to give him orders to lay up Provisions at Rocroy, and the Towns upon the Meuse; I will tell you beforehand, that if the Cardinal Infant takes the way of Cambray, you must with all expedition send twelve hundred Men at least, one half to St. Quintin, and the other half to Peron­ne, and three hundred Horse to each of these two places; by which means the Enemy will be able to do nothing on that side. I am of opinion likewise, that it will be necessary to send back the Cavalry of poor Rambure to Dourlans.

I can assure you, and Monsieur de Chavigny will do the same, that the Cardinal Infant cannot bring above four thousand Foot and two thousand Horse into the Field, being constrain'd to leave the remainder of his Troops, to prevent the Incursions which the Hollanders may make into the Country, after Breda is taken.

This is the true State of the Enemy on that side. And then Picolomini and Balancon, having both in Horse and Foot not above nine or ten thousand Men at most, the greatest part of which are unarm'd, 'tis impossible for them to make a Body of above fifteen or sixteen thou­sand Men in all.

In all probability they will not abandon their Post at Mons, because then they will have the Heart of the [Page 125] Country open, and give an opportunity to Monsieur de Candalle to cut off their Rear.

Now if they leave any Forces at Mons, they cannot leave less than four or five thousand Men, by which means they will not be able to bring above ten thou­sand Men into the Field; in which case it will be suf­ficient to have a thousand Horse in Maubeuge, and four thousand Foot with Monsieur de Tureune.

You may likewise spare from your Siege, since the Lines of Circumvallation are now finish'd, a thousand Horse, and seven thousand Foot, and so have always more than six thousand Horse, and from nine to ten thou­sand Foot, to bring into the Field, which Monsieur de Candalle may command, till the Siege you are now em­ploy'd in, gives you leave to be there in Person. And when once the aforesaid Siege is over, I hope I shall soon be so happy as to assist at a Te Deum for a Victo­ry you have obtain'd. I desire it, my Lord, no less for your Reputation, than for the Welfare of his Majesty's Affairs, as being with the utmost sincerity,

LETTER CVII. To the same

I Have dispatch'd the Bearer hereof, whose Name is Garde, on purpose to tell you, that the King has sent with all expedition for twelve hundred Horse out of Monsieur de Chastillon's Army, and that he sends four Companies of his Guards, and the Regiment of Roche­giffard, which consists of twelve hundred Men, and was quarter'd about Senlis, to St. Quintin and Peronne, that by this means you might be able to keep all your Troops together, without sending them to those two places, as I desir'd you to do yesterday. I here once more as­sure you, that the Cardinal Infant has brought but two thousand Horse, and four thousand Men with him, and you may take my word for it, 'tis as true as Gospel. Provided that one cou'd avoid a disadvantageous Battel, between this and six Days hence, if Capelle were once taken, we ought to contrive some way or other to fight the Enemy, and I hope we shou'd come off with no less Success than we have used to do of late.

The Duke of Savoy has just now gain'd a Battel, where­in he has totally defeated, seven thousand Foot, and five hundred Horse, tho' he had not above five thou­sand Foot, and five hundred Horse. In this Action the Enemy lost all their Cannon and Equipage. I have a ve­ry strong opinion, that we shall have some good Success; but however we must take Capelle with all speed; and in the mean time be careful to avoid any ill-favour'd Shock, which in my poor Judgment is easily done, since this is the third time that I have sent you a true account of the Enemy's Force. You may depend upon the truth of it; as also that I am, and ever shall be,

LETTER CVII. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

I Am so much the more pleased at the Surrender of Capelle, which News was brought to me by Monsieur de Cinq-Mars, because this good Success will, in all probability, put you in a way to attain greater Advantages over the Enemy, now your Forces are more at liberty to act, and you are not taken up with any Siege. I hope this, both from the Prosperity of his Majesty's Arms, and from your Prudence; affuring you, that I no less sincerely pray, that the King's Affairs may prosper under your Conduct, than for the Preservation of my own Life; which I shall most willingly sacrifice, at any time, for the Advantage of the King's Service; and to give your Lord­ship clearer Convictions, that no Man living is with more Sin­cerity than I am,

LETTER CVIII. To the Same.

I Was overjoy'd to find by Monsieur de Chavigny, that you are so heartily affected to me. I beseech you to believe, that I shall be no less zealous in whatever regards yourself, and that nothing shall cause the least Alteration in my Friend­ship to you.

I have dispatched this Messenger again, to tell you, that being of Opinion that you may, without laying aside any of the Designs, which the aforesaid Sieur de Chavigny has ac­quainted me with, send at least fifteen Hundred Horse to [Page 150] Monsieur de Chatillon, instead of the Thousand we have sent you, and the Two Thousand Foot. In my Judgment 'tis wholly necessary that this should be done with all Expedition, because, as you have very well observed, one of the most advantageous Designs we can possibly go upon for the remain­der of this Campagne, is, to possess our selves of Damvillers; as likewise, because we have received Advice, that Duke Charles is marched to join Cantelme, with all the Forces he could get together, to endeavour the Relief of that Place. I am sorry that after this I must send you the News of the Duke of Savoy's Death, which afflicts me in an inexpressible manner. I am, and ever shall be, your most, &c.

LETTER CIX. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

HAving an Opportunity to write to you by the Sieur Fa­bert, who is going towards you, I can only tell you, That the King gives you full Liberty to Act as you shall judge it most advantageous to his Service. The Retreat of Beau­mont has somewhat surprized his Majesty; but as we are not yet fully acquainted with the Particulars, we cannot tell what to say to it. I can positively assure you, that the Cardinal In­fant has sent back part of his Troops to Prince Thomas, to oppose the Progress of the Prince of Orange. 'Tis certain, that it had done no small Service to his Majesty's Affairs, if we could have perform'd something on your side to content the Hollanders, who are impatient to advance into the Enemies Country; and complain, tho without any Reason, that we have done them a great deal of Harm. His Majesty thinks it ex­pedient, that you should send back for the Two Thousand Foot, and the Fifteen Hundred Horse, which you sent to the Mareschal de Chatillon, in case you are able to affect any thing. Whatever you [...]o, you must be sure to take up some Winter-Quarters near Chimay, which would have been very proper to have sustained the Army of Beaumont.

Monsieur de Noyers has Writ so fully to you, that I have no more to add at present, but that I am, and ever shall be, with the utmost Sincerity, your most, &c.

P. S. I desire you, my Lord, so long as you continue where you are, to take care that Landrechy be well fortified; and give such Directions for Sonooyes, that the Place may be victualled for a Year: For you know well enough, that the Sieur Gargan exhausted all its Provisions for the Service of the Army.

LETTER CX. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

I Find by the Letter which Billon, Quartermaster of my Guards, brought me from you, that you have been so reserved and sparing, that you wou'd not take up Nine Thousand Livres out of that Money which Monsieur de Noyers and I sent to you some time ago, to employ them upon the Fortifications of Chateau Cambreses. For which Reason I have sent you these few Lines to acquaint you, That you may em­ploy the aforesaid Sum to the above-mentioned purpose as soon as you please, since I am clearly of the Opinion with you, that 'tis necessary; and so much the more, that you may freely make use of any thing, where I have any particular Power. Depend upon this, I beseech you; and believe that I am your most, &c.

LETTER CXI. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

YOu will so particularly know the King's Intentions upon the Subject of your Dispatches, by the Letter which the Chevalier de Monclair brings you, that it will be unnecessary [Page 152] for me to add any thing to it. So the only occasion of my writing to you this, is to renew to you the Assurances of my hearty Affection, upon which you may certainly depend, and rest satisfied that I shall be proud of any Opportunity to let you see how zealous I am to serve you I have sent word to the Count de Guiche, that the King gives him leave to come to Paris, to be there at his Lady's Lying-in. I am perswa­ded that you will freely consent to it at this Juncture, when the Army does not require his Presence. The Sicur de Mont­clair will inform you of all that has happened in these parts; to which, reserring myself, I shall only add, that I am your most, &c.

LETTER CXII. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

I Was extreamly surprized to find by the Count de Guiche, that you believed that some Body had done you ill Offices with the King. I can positively assure you of the contrary, and that you have been never mentioned here but to your Advantage. To satisfie you further, If some envious Persons had misrepresented you in your Absence, yet his Majesty and his Servants know you too well, to entertain any other Opi­nion of you, than what you justly deserve, or to give Credit to any Reports that may be spread to your Prejudice. Let me therefore conjure you to remove these ill-grounded Suspi­cions, and rest assured, That as no body, as far as I can per­ceive, has endeavour'd to do you the least Injury; so that nothing is able to wound your Reputation, either with the King, or any Person at Court that esteems and honours you as I do, who shall be glad of any Opportunity to convince you, that I am, with all Sincerity, yours, &c.

LETTER CXIII. To Mareschal Schomberg.

FOr the entire security of Leucatte, and the better defence of the Frontiers from any Insults on that side, some Per­sons of your parts have thought it advisable to build a Fort, in immitation of that of the Spaniards, called St. Ange, in the narrow Road that leads from Spain to Leucatte; with a large Half-moon before the Gate, enclosing a small Hill that com­mands the Place; as also a Block-house on an Eminence hard by, which has the like command. I have already writ of this to Monsieur D' Argencour, and have desired him to com­municate my Letter to you, and to joyn with you in the Survey of those Places, and to observe whether these Works are neces­sary or not. But having received no Answer from him, I thought it but requisite to acquaint you with the same thing; desiring, that together with him and some others, that should be well acquainted with the Scituation of the Place, you would make a strict Examination into the Matter, and enquire whether such a Design might be profitable or not; it being impossible for me to determine any thing so far off so well as those that are upon the Spot, and know the Country.

As for Leucatte, I am of opinion, that if it were possible to throw down the Faussebraie from within, it were the best Means to secure the Place against the utmost Efforts of its E­nemies; the Spaniards having always fetch'd Earth to fortifie their Trenches from the very brink of the said Faussebraie. Methinks Measures should not be wanting to effect this Work, and which in my Judgment is as much or more necessary than any other. I desire you to do what is in your Power, and to give me a speedy Account: In expectation of which, I am, &c.

LETTER CXIV. To the Duke of Halwin.

I Cannot express my Joy for your Success in your late Expe­dition at Leucatte, to force an Intrenchment, relieve a Town and gain a Battle, are visible effects of God's Assistance; and I'm the more thankful because you are chosen for the Mi­nister of so glorious an Action, advantageous both to your own Country, and the Kingdom in general. By this it appears that your Courage and Fidelity are not accompanied with less Suc­cess than your Father, Monsieur Schomberg's, have always been. The Satisfaction I hereby receive is inexpressible. You have nothing left to do but to make the best use of so signal a Victo­ry. Monsieur Noyers has acquainted you with the King's Plea­sure, and I am well assured you will not defer your Obedience with less Zeal than you did in your late Action, which got you so great Honour. This I conjure you too for a thousand Rea­sons which I have not time here to mention. Believe, that I am and will be always, &c.

P. S. I cannot help acquainting you again, that I am over­joy'd at the Action in Languedoc, and the rather because it was performed by you: I can assure you, I will be un­mindful of nothing that may in the least contribute towards the gratifying your Expectations and Deserts.

LETTER CXV. To Mareschal Schomberg.
From the Appartment of the Sieurs Torquefort and Bodin.

BY some Persons lately come from Leucatte, I understand that you have not repair'd the Ruins caus'd by the Siege, nor yet begun the New Works, which you yourself, and Mon­sieur d' Argencour, judg'd necessary to be made; and, in a word, that the Place is in a much worse Condition at present, than it was when the Spaniards first set down before it. Tru­ly this News has the more surpriz'd me, in that I did not be­lieve there remained any thing to be done, to secure it from any second Attempt of its Enemies, in regard of the long time you have had to work. I earnestly entreat you therefore to remedy this Default, in such manner, that no Inconveniency may result from your Omission; and to consider that it is not enough to secure a Place, if one does not afterwards endea­vour to preserve it by Prudence and Foresight. You have so great a Concern in this, that I do not doubt but you will do whatever is in your Power: and so conclude, &c.

LETTER CXVI. To the Same.

THe desire I have to see the Harbour of Agde finish'd, oc­casions my resuming my Pen to conjure you, so to manage Affairs, either by your Interest or Authority, that at the next Assembly of the States, the Provinces may be tax'd [Page 156] with such a Sum as may perfect the Works so well begun. I do not recommend to you the Advantage they'll receive by it in general, nor the Benefit and Conveniency that some pri­vate Persons have already had, because you know both much better than I. But I shall only assure you, that such care shall be taken of the Money so designed, that the Country shall have no reason to grudge the Charge. The Bishop of Agde will communicate an Order to you, that I have sent him upon this Occasion. I desire you to see all well executed, and that you will believe me, &c.

LETTER CXVII. To the Same.

I Cannot help acquainting you, that the King has been very much surpriz'd to hear, that the Cannons the Spaniards lost at Leucatte, are still in the Ditches, or without the Walls; and that you have not taken care to send 'em to Narbonne, accor­ding to his pleasure, made known to you long time since. His Majesty therefore hereby expresly commands you to lose no more time, but to see it speedily done, and to assign for Convoy the Regiments of Languedoc, St. Andre, St. Aunays, your own Guards, and other Troops that shall be in the Province at that time, that they may meet with no Inconveniences by the Way. For my part, I earnestly conjure you to omit nothing that may satisfie His Majesty in this Particular, for he is inex­pressibly impatient till he hears of their safe arrival at Nar­bonne. Believe that I am heartily, &c.

LETTER CXVIII. To the Same.

ALthough Monsieur Noyers may have already made known to you how important it would be to the King's Service, that the Army in Italy, under your Command, should spee­dily repass the Mountains, to the end that they might oppose the progress of their Enemies, who have been a long time in the Field, and are at present engaged in the Siege of Bresme; yet I have thought it not amiss to represent to you the same thing; earnestly conjuring you, moreover, with all the Affecti­on imaginable, that you would not be unmindful of any thing that depends either upon your Authority, your Care, or your Diligence, not only that the said Troops may speedily repass, but also that they may want for nothing that may render 'em able and compleat. You may be assured nothing can be more profitable and pleasing to His Majesty, and which I will endeavour to improve so as it may be serviceable to a Per­son that I have always honour'd and esteem'd, &c.

LETTER CXIX. To Mareschal Chatillon.

I Am overjoy'd at the good condition Monsieur Noyers has acquainted the King, he left you and the Officers of your Army in. His Majesty has so great confidence in your Sincerity, that he is assured you will speedily make known to his Ene­mies, how much is in the Power of a Mareschal Chatillon. He expects you would march Sunday next without excuse, that you might be at the River of Somme the twelfth, and at Dolaus the fifteenth. I desire you would not fail by any means, be­cause [Page 158] we have sent the Prince of Orange word that you would be in the Enemies Coutry precisely the fifteenth. His Majesty approv'd the March, Monsieur Noyers reported you design'd to make. I wish your Journey prosperous with all my Heart, and I desire you to believe that I am, &c.

LETTER CXX. To the Same.

THe King has been much troubled on account of the De­lays to transport his Army into the Enemies Country, when he had given his word to the Prince of Orange, that they should be on their March the tenth of this Month. He has sent the Bishop of Auxerre to make you sensible how much it is for his Interest that you should repair this Omission with extraordinary Diligence, and not quit it till you are arriv'd where you are commanded. In God's Name lose no more time for several Reasons of great Consequence: But be assur'd that I am, and will be always your Security, &c.

LETTER CXXI. To the Same.

HAving understood that Messieurs de Saint Preuil, and de la Ferte, have had a Quarrel, I conjure you by this Letter to endeavour to appease 'em all you can, or otherways to interpose your Authority, that they may become good Friends. I have writ to both of 'em, to invite 'em to it, for I should be very sorry, being my intimate Acquaintance, to have 'em push it on to any Extremity. I am well assur'd your Pru­dence will prevent any farther Miscarriage; and I desire you once more to believe that I am sincerely, &c.

LETTER CXXII. To the Same.

I Have been extreamly glad to learn from the Letter, you sent me by the Gentleman of the Bed-chamber, that you were happily arriv'd before St. Omers; and the rather because you had so fair hopes of accomplishing your Design, which I wish as good Success to, as you possibly can yourself; and for its furtherance will contribute from hence whatever is in my Power. I cannot sufficiently commend and thank you, for the good Orders you have establish'd in your March, for preserving the Country, and preventing the plundering of Churches and Monasteries. I desire you to continue the same Care for the future, that your Troops may avoid the ill Reputation of Burning and Theft.

We shall not be wanting to Reinforce you according to your desire. You have never yet ask'd more than Fourteen Thou­sand Foot; but I am well assur'd, before the receipt of this, you will have above Fifteen Thousand, by the arrival of de Molondin; whose Regiment, if not Two Thousand, will at least consist of Fifteen Hundred Men: Of Bellefonds, who com­mands, above Twelve Hundred Men: Of Fouquezolles, which I don't reckon for above Five Hundred Men: Of Decamp, which I take to be about the same Number: And of De la Saludie, which, in my Opinion, cannot have less than Eight Hundred Men, which make in all Four Thousand Five Hun­dred Men. As for the Marine Regiment, you know it is im­possible for us to spare it, being one of the Principal Bodies that composes the Army of Monsieur de la Force, and which if we should take from him, that he would be considerably weakned.

I forgot to tell you Courtaumer is also upon his March, who brings you above one thousand Men, and that we have sent you Twenty Four Thousand Franks to advance your Works, that the want of Money may not retard you one moment. A God's Name, Sir, be very diligent, and assure yourself that I will be always sincerely, &c.

LETTER CXXIII. To Mareschal Schomberg.

THe successive Advices you have had of the Spaniards De­signs upon Languedoc, together with those we have re­ceiv'd from divers other places of the same Intentions, O­blige me to write you this Letter, to conjure you to take so great care of yourself, that you be not any ways surpriz'd. 'Tis hard to believe the Spaniards can be strong enough to defend themselves against the Prince's Incursions into their Country, and Attack us on another side at the same time. But admitting they were enclin'd to enter Languedoc, they would certainly change their Resolutions when they saw the Prince's Army in Spain. Nevertheless, that they may not be capable to oppose the Prince's Undertaking, you are reinforc'd, over and above the Regiments of Languedoc, Vitry and Mon­clar, with that of St. Aunais, and at need you may make use of those of Rousillon and Mirepoix, making in all six Regiments, and which at the head of the Militia of your Government are as good as the best Army we have. But we must not think to let you have always these six Regiments, for fear of over­burthening the Country, but only so long as the Prince's At­tack may experience what the Spaniards are able to do. It is your business to have so great regard to every thing, that if the Enemies will needs enter the Frontiers on your side, you may be as ready as they, not suffering yourself to be sur­priz'd, as you were the last Year.

We have sent you an Order of Ten Thousand Crowns, on the Receipt of Languedoc, to make use of upon Occasion.

I say nothing to what you writ me concerning the Prince, because you have already been acquainted by Monsieur Noyer's Dispatches, with the King's Pleasure therein: I shall only con­jure you by this to omit nothing in your Power to keep up a fair Correspondence with him, and I desire you to believe that I am and will be always assuredly, &c.

LETTER CXXIV. To the Same.

I Am extreamly pleas'd to hear, that altho' Courtaumer's Re­giment have not yet joyn'd you, you have now effectually Fourteeen Thousand well disciplin'd Men in your Army, and Three Thousand other Soldiers in case of need, which is above the Number we promis'd, and you have always desir'd. You may know by this if we are sincere in our Promises, or have engag'd you where we did not design you should succeed. You may be assur'd we shall never put you upon any thing, where we will not furnish you with Ability to go through, and to convince you the better of the Desire we have that you should speedily accomplish your Siege: The King was no soon­er acquainted with your Request to be joyn'd by Monsieur de la Force, to cover your Intrenchments, but he immediately di­spatch'd Orders to him to advance, and to march directly to­wards Therouenne, altho' he had prepar'd, and was design'd for other Attempts; and all this not to be thought unmindful of whatever was in our Power to farther your Designs and Suc­cess. I am apt to believe de la Force's Army will not lye idle by yours; for tho' it may not happen that you both engage the Enemy together, yet he may perform something advantage­ous to the Affairs of His Majesty. In the mean time, I con­jure you to contribute what ever you can to this end, and to believe that no body Affects and Esteems you more, and is more truly and cordially your Friend, than, &c.

P. S. Since your extraordinary Diligence, in your first ta­king the Field, was so advantageous to you, I desire you to neglect nothing for the future that may advance your Siege: And to remember, that 'tis from thence for the most part, that proceeds the good or ill Success of any Ʋn­dertaking.

LETTER CXXV. To Mareschal Chatillon.

I Can never enough wonder at two Expresses you lately sent to Monsieur Noyers, for I could never have believed that having had several days to view the Place you besieg'd, with­out the Enemies opposing you in the least, you could be so overseen as to leave a Canal open, where the Recruits enter'd the Town without resistance. I must confess, at first hearing this, I could not easily give credit to it, not being able to imagine that you should not foresee a place where the Ene­mies might have effected whatever they could have desir'd. As to the other Misfortune of the two Regiments defeated, we might have been the easier comforted, if the former had not depriv'd us of the means; yet it is difficult to hinder my belief, that a Convoy of Thirty Horse would not have been sufficient to have secur'd the passage of Two Regiments of Foot. Notwithstanding these ill Accidents, I am glad to hear your Resolutions still to continue the Siege in spite of 'em, and which, to encourage you in, Monsieur de la Force is order'd to your speedy Assistance. In short, you must needs carry the Place; and therefore for the future, endeavour to repair these two false Steps by a more extraordinary Diligence.

Your Reputation and the King's Interest, are more concern­ed in this than I can express, tho' not than you can imagine. In a word, if St Omers were Ostend, His Majesty is resolv'd to take it. But in truth, I must needs tell you, we should be well busied to send Troops, if you have not a more extraordinary Care to manage and to imploy 'em, so that the Enemies might not bring their Designs about without a stroke struck. I con­jure you once more not to be discourag'd at this Misfortune: but to be assur'd you shall always be seconded to his Power, that loves and honours you particularly, and who is, &c.

LETTER CXXVI. To the Same.

THis Letter is nothing but to reinforce what I advis'd you yesterday, that the King is resolv'd, whatever it cost him, to make himself Master of St. Omers, and whatever dif­ficulty may be found in the Attempt, he hopes God of his Goodness will afford him means to surmount. Do not con­cern yourself any farther, for what has already hapned; but be resolv'd for the future to endeavour to foresee and prevent the like Miscarriages. I hope Monsieur de la Force, being strengthened by a Party of your Horse, will be able to fight the Enemy successfully, if he meets an opportunity, and which may give you occasion, in the mean time, to prosecute your Siege with Vigour, and without Interruption. In a word, this Affair, being once undertaken, you cannot decline it without apparent Prejudice to His Majesty's and your own Re­putation; the increase of both, which I shall always desire, as I am, &c.

LETTER CXXVII. To the Same.

YOur last brought me no less Joy, thro' hopes you gave of a happy and speedy Success in your Expedition, than your former caus'd me Disquiet in hearing of the Re­cruits got into St. Omers. I have nevertheless always thought, being so perfectly well acquainted with you, that this petty Ac­cident could never be capable to discourage you, nor in the least to abate that warmth with which I know you undertook this Action; it being no extraordinary thing to take Places that [Page 164] have been reliev'd, where they have been attempted by a Person of your rare Endowments and Courage. I don't doubt but you have now began your Attacks, and open'd your Tren­ches, since you delay'd only till the approaches of Monsieur de la Force had cover'd you; which he now has, we are ad­vis'd, for these two Days. Wherefore there's nothing remains, but to conjure you to be very Vigilant and Diligent, and to desire you to believe that as I am a Person have always valu'd and admir'd you, so there's none can more desire the encrease of your Reputation, than myself, who am, &c.

P. S. You would do well to Ransom those Prisoners the E [...] ­mies have of ours, if you have not already done it, and to know from them if they will give Quarter or not for the future, that we may treat their Men as they shall do Ours. The Folly of the French is so great in this particular, that perhaps after they have kept 'em a considerable time, they may be enclin'd to admit 'em into their Troops; but pray let 'em know, that where any such practice shall be made use of, the first that are discover'd shall be handled after the severest manner, and this to extinguish the very first thought of any such Intentions.

LETTER CXXVIII. To Mareschal de Chatillon.

MOnsieur Noyers has writ you so large an Account of the Approach of Marschal de la Force's Army, that I have nothing left to do but to conjure you to consider well of his Reasons. For my part I take 'em to be of great consequence, not only on account of the King's Interest, but also your own Reputation. I earnestly request you not to be unmindful in the least of your Duty; and to be assured that I am sincerely, &c.

LETTER CXXIX. To the Same.

I Was extreamly surpriz'd to see a Courrier sent hither from you, to desire that Mareschal de la Force's Army might be joyn'd speedily with yours, to accomplish your Siege of St. O­mers; as also when I understood by the same Person, that you had not yet open'd your Trenches. I believe you have for­got, that when you desir'd only the Regiments of Gassion and de la Ferte, it was on condition that you should ask no other Army to prevent the Enemies falling upon you.

You have since desir'd, that Monsieur de la Force should ap­proach you within four Leagues, which has been granted, tho' the King had other intentions; because, by covering your Siege, he would be always ready to make head against the Enemies where-ever they might m [...]rch, to enter France and make diversion. But, by your last Proposals, you re­quire his being join'd with you, which would not only de­prive him absolutely of any such Power, but also put his Majesty's Affairs into but a very ill posture. In truth, the King has been more concern'd than you can imagin at these tedious Procrastinations, and the sad variety he observes in the effects of 'em. You have already sent word two or three times, that you would open your Trenches, but still there is nothing done. Such proceeding is so very prejudicial to the King's interest, in that it gives his Enemies time to grow capable of interrupting, not only this Undertaking, but also all other his Majesty's Designs, insomuch that it is impossible for me to conceal my Sentiments of it. And, having always honour'd you, as I do still, I must needs desire you to con­sider, that it would not be at all for your Reputation, if, with an Army to back you, and another of fifteen or sixteen thousand Men under your Command, you could not take so inconsiderable a Place as St. Omers. In God's Name, Sir, be more diligent; the King's Affairs require it, and the just and reasonable impatience his Majesty may very well have upon such occasion, obliges you to it.

We have order'd the Mareschal de la Force to send Suc­cours, commanded in divers Bodies, to assist you in your Circumvallation. This is all that you can desire, and pardon me, if I tell you, you are unreasonable if you ask more. This is what I thought necessary by this Letter, which I con­clude with full assurance of the continuance of my friendship, and that I am sincerely, &c.

LETTER CXXX. To the Same.

I Conjure you, a God's Name, to redouble your diligence: The King's Affairs, his Majesty's Satisfaction, and your own Private Interest require it. And, if after so powerful Motives, my Sentiments may seem of any moment, I beg of you, once more, to hasten your Works and the Execution of your Enterprize. Remember, that nothing is more precious than Time in great Actions; and be assur'd, that I will en­deavour always to recommend your Services, that your Re­ward may correspond with your Expectations: Who am sin­cerely, &c.

LETTER CXXXI. To Mareschal Schomberg.

FOr answer to Your's of the 28th of June, I must tell you, that tho' there be no likelihood of the Spaniards attack­ing you in Languedoc, having so powerful an Army in the very Bowels of their own Country, whether of necessity they must have speedy recourse, yet we do not see reason to with­draw all the Regiments from your Province, till we are cer­tain what they intend to do.

As for the Powder you writ for, the King having so many Armies on Foot, and so many Garrisons to furnish, it is im­possible to send you near so much as you expect. But as it is no easie thing, so neither is it necessary, there being a great deal to be found in many places of your Government, which, tho' it be almost spoil'd, yet it may be easily made good again by the many Mills you have amongst you. So that over and above this, of the 50000 weight, which you say you reserve for the Campaign, you'll have occasion only for 25000, and the other 25000 you may distribute amongst the Garrisons that want. In the mean time all necessary di­ligence shall be us'd to send you fresh Supplies as often as it shall be judg'd you have need.

It is your business to take such care of your Militia, that they may be ready to join your Regiments, as they did the last Year, if any occasion should offer. But once more, I cannot believe that the Spaniards will attack you: Or if they will needs attempt such a thing, it must be with so great dis­advantage, that you may easily over-power 'em, as you did once before. I wish it with a great deal of earnestness, as being entirely, &c.

P. S. Monsieur Melleraye has acquainted me, that there were 1636 thousand Weight of Powder in Nartonne, and which he had augmented with 10000 more. Also, that over and above this, you had 25000 for the Affair of Leucatte, whereof there was but 5000 spent: So that, if you had pleas'd, Narbonne alone might have furnish'd you with 50000 Weight of Powder, without touching the Provisions of this Year.

As for the Carriages of the great Ordnance, he believ'd 'em to be in a very good condition; for that over and above the care he had taken of 'em, the Country had rais'd Money for that purpose, which had been reposited in your Hands.

An exact Answer to all this, if you please, the first opportunity.

LETTER CXXXII. To Mareschal Chatillon.

ALtho' your ill success at St. Omers does not a little preju­dice his Majesty's Affairs at this present juncture, yet as every thing one undertakes has not always a good event, which depends purely upon God's pleasure and not on Man's: You must not suffer the small Misfortunes you have met with, to lessen or abate your Courage in the least; but, on the con­trary, as those that have as great share as you have, never shew it more than when they are oppos'd by some consider­able disorder, so you must endeavour to make amends for your former ill Success, by some other noble Undertaking. I desire you to believe I will contribute to this purpose what­ever is in my power; and you may expect from me that Esteem and Value you so sincerely deserve, and that I will be proud to make known how much I am, &c.

LETTER CXXXIII. To Mareschal Schomberg.

OUr opinion of the small probability there was of the Spaniards attacking Languedoc, when they had so pow­erful an Army of their Enemies in their own Country, was principally grounded on the successive Accounts you sent of 'em. But since, understanding by your last Express, of the 14th of this Month, that they were preparing to enter the Province, the King thinks fit that you put yourself into a con­dition, from this very moment, to oppose their Designs. And for that purpose, tho' his Majesty had intended part of those Regiments under your Command should serve elsewhere; [Page 169] yet, at present, he is willing that you retain 'em; and, fur­thermore, desires, that you would assemble, as necessity re­quires, the Regiments of Rousillon, Kelas, Mirepoix, Cabrere, Orgeville, and Montbastier, which, with those of Languedoc, St. Aunays, and the Militia that you may speedily raise, will all together make a Body of Infantry sufficient to resist and fight our Enemies, in case they should invade us. As for Horse, his Majesty well knowing you would not have enough, tho' the Gentlemen of the Country should all be assisting, has sent you ten Commissions, to raise so many Troops more with 60000 Livres for Levy-Money. But because it may be this Sum may not come to your Hands so soon as you expect, I have sent 10000 Crowns of my own Money, upon the said 60000, to the end that you may proceed in your Levies briskly, and with expedition. You may be hereby assur'd, that I have no less desires than formerly to see you gain Ho­nour over your Enemies, and that my Care of you is not more remiss.

As for the 30000 Livres you writ for about Bread, M. Noy­ers has acquainted me you have already had Orders for 'em on the general Receipt of Montpellier.

Whereas his Majesty has altogether design'd the aforesaid Troops to oppose his Enemies Intentions, if, instead of enter­ing Languedoc, they should march towards Provence, you are desir'd to do the like, and, as soon as possible, to join the Count d' Alez. But if neither Languedoc nor Provence stand in need of you, the King would have you command 'em a­way into Italy, as well to strengthen the Cardinal de la Va­lette's Army, as to ease and discharge your own Government from so great a number of Men that must needs incommode you extreamly.

As to your Complaint against M. de Nismes, I am oblig'd to acquaint you he has never said any thing to me of you, that you ought in the least to be offended at; and if he has mention'd any thing to the Council, as Representative, he has done it only by order from his Province, who, you know, have always had liberty by their Deputies to make known what they thought intrench'd upon their Priviledges. Where­fore I must needs desire you to will him no harm, but to live with him as with a Person I have no ordinary kind­ness for.

M. Noyers having writ to you so largely upon all Matters, there is nothing left more for me, but to desire you to send fre­quent Expresses of your Motions, and to assure yourself that [Page 170] I will endeavour to be as serviceable as you can expect from one who has always honour'd and esteem'd you, and who am, &c.

LETTER CXXXIV. To Mareschal Chatillon.

Monsieur de Saligny is return'd so well inform'd of the King's mind about those Matters he came to repre­sent from you to his Majesty, that, referring you altogether to him for farther Instructions, I shall content myself in these Lines, with only assuring you of the continuance of my Friendship and Affection, and that I should be glad of any opportunities to convince you how much I am, &c.

P. S. I desire you to remember, that the Affair you have in hand requires both Secrecy and Diligence.

LETTER CXXXV. To the Same.

YOu will be so particularly acquainted by the Dispatch M. Noyers sends you, with the King's Pleasure, that it would be altogether needless to write more: Therefore I shall only earnestly entreat you to employ so much diligence and care in that small concern his Majesty desires of you, that you may in some measure make amends for your Misfor­tunes hitherto. For my part, I wish you success with all my heart, not only for the reputation of his Majesty's Arms, but also your own; of which I desire the encrease, as being, &c.

P. S. Let Secrecy and Diligence be your Guides, and I intreat you to act suitable to the Desires and Good-will of your Friends.

LETTER CXXXVI. To the Same.

THE King having sent back the Bishop of Auxerre to acquaint you with his desires, to have the Siege of Renty carryed on with all imaginable Vigour and Diligence; I have taken occasion for my part, to conjure you not to slip one Minuit: For although this Undertaking be not great, yet it is a means to begin to amend what is past; to which end, I shall always be assisting to my power. I entreat you therefore to be very diligent in this Affair, by the issue of which we may see what we have to do: In the mean time, be secure of my Affection and Friendship, and that I am sincerely, &c.

LETTER CXXXVII. To the Mareschals de la Force and Chatillon.

THis Letter is intended only to give you account of a sig­nal Victory obtained by Monsieur Weymar over the two Armies of Goeux and Savelli; where he has bore away 24, as well Colours as Standards, 11 Pieces of Cannon, all the E­nemies Baggage, six thousand Sacks of Corn, & 40000 Weight of Powder that they were about to carry into Brisac. The Fight continued from one till six at Night, and 3000 Men were left dead upon the place, of which Monsieur Weymar lost only four or five hundred: Monsieur Weymar attach'd them first, after having sought 'em for two whole days. Tubal and Vernancourt only were carryed off Prisoners, by being too hot in their Pursuit after their flying Enemies. Monsieur Weymar has above 800 Prisoners.

At the same time we received News, that Monsieur de la Mothe Houdancourt, whom Monsieur de Longueville had sent to the Relief of Poligny that was besieg'd, had driven the Ene­mies from before that Place, with the Loss of 500 upon the Spot, and above 100 Prisoners.

To second this great Victory of Monsieur Weymar, it were to be wished, Gentlemen, That you would also do some great thing on this side. The King has commanded me to put you in mind of it in his Absence; and I am so well assured, that you will do your utmost endeavours, that I think no more necessary to be said. But I am nevertheless afraid, His Maje­sty will be a little displeas'd, that you did not leave Renty be­fore this day; for supposing you should follow the Orders sent you, Monsieur Hallier is design'd to Advance upon another Expedition. We have every day Advices, That the Enemies are punctually inform'd of every thing you do; therefore we earnestly desire you to communicate for the future neither your Thoughts, your Orders, nor your Intentions to any bo­dy. As also to believe, that I am, &c.

LETTER CXXXVIII. To both the Same.

I Take up my Pen to acquaint you with a remarkable Sea-Fight perform'd by Monsieur Burdeaux in the Port of Ga­tary in Spain, where he has had so compleat a Victory, that the Enemies have lost 1 [...] great Gallions, with 3 other Ships, which were all burnt together, with their Seamen, and 3000 Natural Spanyards that they were carrying to St. Sebastian, to compose an Army to obviate His Majesty's Designs there. I think it would be proper that you endeavour to make this good News known to the Enemy, which being joyn'd to their Loss of 19 Ships, at the taking of the Port of Passage, they may see, thanks be to God, that their Affairs are not in so prosperous a condition as they may imagine; and which the late Victory of Monsieur Weimar may evince to 'em in a greater measure. Furthermore, Gentlemen, the King having been inform'd, that the Enemy has taken a great Number of [Page 173] your Forage Horses, has commanded me to signifie to you, that you do by no means suffer any hereafter to go a Fo­raging without sufficient Convoy, for the remedying of such pernitious inconveniencies for the future, and which in a short time would utterly ruine your Cavalry. I conjure you also in my own particular, and desire you to believe me, &c.

LETTER CXXXIX. To both the Same.

THese three Words are only to desire you to cause a ge­neral Discharge of your Cannon to morrow Night, to learn the Enemies our Victory obtain'd by Monsieur Bordeaux in the same manner as they acquainted us of a trifling Advan­tage over the Hollanders by their Discharge at Cambray. I beg of you to intrench yourselves so securely, that they may not be able to force any of your Quarters, Assuring you that I am, &c.

P. S. Monsieur Noyers has sent you Money for the Works you have acquainted us you design to cause to be made at Crevecoeur.

LETTER CXL. To Mareschal Schomberg.

Monsieur de la Jaille having represented to me, that there is no foundation left for the Works of the Ci­tadel of Monpellier, and that there are some begun, that will never be able to stand, if they be not finished before Win­ter; I write you this Letter to acquaint you, that in my opinion, the King would not take it amiss, if you should con­vert, towards the finishing of these Works, the 12000 Livres [Page 174] were sent you last, as well to levy 10 Troops of Horse, as for Ammunition Bread for the Souldiers that were then un­der your Command, in case you should have been oblig'd for the Defence of the Province, to have assembled and caus'd 'em to march; reserving the rest of the said Fund to be em­ploy'd in the Spring in new Levies, there having been no oc­casion for any such hitherto.

I desire you to send me word what Horse you shall be likely to have the next year: Also to Answer my Letter co­piously, which I sent you concerning Rousillon, and to be­lieve that I am, &c.

LETTER CXLI. To the Same.

FOR fear you may not have received a Letter which I wrote you from St. Quentin, whereby I desired a parti­cular Map of your Frontiers, and the Country of Rousillon, with all the Principal Places and Passes exactly drawn, I write this to entreat you to get me such a Cast made, and to send it soon after with an ample Memoire of the Facilities and Dif­ficulties to be met with, by making War in those Parts; and all this, that in case His Majesty should turn his Designs on your side, we might be able to concert Measures before we undertake any Action.

I desire you also to send me a very particular Plat, well de­sign'd, of the Town and Castle of Perpignan; as also the means you judge requisit to take it, in case His Majesty should have any Thoughts of that Nature.

How many Men would be necessary for such an Under­taking.

If the Town were taken, what Circumvallation were re­quisit to become Masters of the Castle; and if that it would be easie to accomplish. Also what Parts of it were proper to be Attach'd.

The best means to subsist an Army: Whence we must ex­pect Provisions: Where most proper to make Magazines: How to bring Subsistance into the Camp, and to secure 'em, [Page 175] so that the Enemies might not cut 'em off, or molest their Convoys.

What Train of Artillery and Ammunition were necessary for such an Enterprize. If Horses and Mules are to be found in the Country, sufficient for that purpose.

What Troops one might draw out of your Garrison, in case of need, to relieve or strengthen the King's Army.

In short, you would abundantly oblige me, to send me your thoughts, not only upon besieging Perpignan, but also of any other Undertaking upon the Frontiers of Languedoc, about all which you may confer with Monsieur d' Argencour; and send me your speedy Result. In expectation of your Answer, I'll conclude my Letter, assuring you that I am, and will be al­ways, &c.

LETTER CXLII. To the Same.

THere having been some Broils lately between Monsieur Valleras a Marine Captain, and some Gentlemen his Neighbours, and for fear they might have ill effects, I thought fitting to desire you to set a Guard upon 'em; and in the mean time, to endeavour by your Authority, to 'em good Friends. I don't mention any Punishment, that one of your Guards de­serves, who instead of accomodating this Quarrel, has offer'd himself, and was employ'd to carry a Challenge to the said Sieur Valleras; I say nothing of this, because I am well as­sur'd, that if his Action has come to your knowledge, he has receiv'd his Deserts. I shall only remember you how very ne­cessary it is, that you should make known your Authority in such Cases. I give you my Sentiments hereupon the freer, because I would be thought to have no common share in what relates to your good, and that I am unquestionably, &c.

LETTER CXLIII. To Cardinal de la Valette.

I Shall Answer Two of your Letters at once, assuring you that such Care is taken of the Troops in Italy, that by the Grace of God, no necessary Subsistence shall be wanting: Monsieur d' Argençon has already given Orders at Lions for the 160000 Livres which you imagin'd would not be so soon re­mitted.

The necessary Subsistence for the Garrisons of Cazal and Pignerol, for the Months of January, February and March, is already dispatch'd, to the full satisfaction of both Monsieur Emery and Monsieur Argençon.

All requisit Orders are given for your Ammunitions of War, which you shall have speedily to your content.

The Troops which you desire, by a Letter to Monsieur Noyers, may not be disbanded, shall be continued.

Furthermore, they shall not be sent you next Spring till your own time, though all that have come hither from Italy, have advis'd us we could not send 'em too soon, the Win­ter being once over; notwithstanding we shall comply with your desires.

Monsieur Turenne has already receiv'd his Orders to join you in Italy: We shall take care to augment his Troops be­fore he goes, that he may be in condition to be more serviceable

I am going to Paris, where I shall take care to refund your Expences, and enable you to proceed.

I am very glad to hear you have strongly fortify'd se­veral Places; whatever be further necessary to support you in it, shall neither be complain'd of, or deny'd you.

I am also very glad you have caus'd the Melting at Ca­zal to continue.

As to the Dutchess, I believe I shall be well advis'd not to meddle any more in her Affairs, being oblig'd in regard to myself and her, by the Letter I sent her by the Sieur d' E­strade, to keep to that Resolution, providing she will be pleas'd to slight that Counsel, that meer natural instinct might inform her as to the business she has upon her hands. [Page 177] I pray God open her Eyes and give her a prospect of the dan­ger she is in.

The Prince will be to Morrow at Paris, where I expect, with impatience, to undeceive him in the Opinion he might have, that your's and M. de la Valette's Affairs are the same. I'll discourse him as I see convenient, and make him sensible, that your concerns and mine are inseparable, and that I would not do any thing for myself, that I would not undertake for you always, and as often as your interest should re­quire.

LETTER CXLIV. To Mareschal Schomberg.

I Have seen your Letter, which is very easie to answer. There's a great deal of difference between Surprizing a Place, and Besieging it. If Aupaux were a Pass of great impor­tance, and from which we might expect great advantages, the best way were to besiege it; but, on the contrary, being on­ly a useless Castle, founded upon a Rock, which opens no en­trance into the Country, as perhaps it might be worth while to surprize it; so a Fortnight's Siege, would not be a little prejudicial, by reason it would not only alarm the Enemies, but spend a great deal of time, that might be otherwise bet­ter employ'd, as about those Designs we projected before you went from hence.

I am very glad to hear you assure me, that every thing relating to Provisions and Artillery, shall be ready by the Fif­teenth of April: So I am likewise, that you prepare your Men with great and vigorous Resolutions, and promise to see 'em executed. I conjure you this with a great deal of ear­nestness, and desire you to believe that I am, &c.

LETTER CXLV. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

I Can never often enough express my concern for the pre­sent Trouble you are in, as well on account of the ill Con­sequences may happen from it, as out of a pure sense of your Misfortunes; earnestly assuring you, that there is no­thing in the World can prevent my having a true and sincere Compunction.

The Negligence of those with whom the Dutchess had in­trusted her Town, is not only to be lamented, but likewise not be endur'd: I'll assure you, the late Action at Chivas has made me pity that unfortunate Princess more than it is in my power to express. But, nevertheless, at present, we must rather apply Remedies than reap up inconsolable Misfor­tunes.

All imaginable diligence has been us'd to expedite your March; we have sent backwards and forwards on all sides: But, as M. Hebron said, Men, not being Crows, it is impossible to make 'em fly. M. Emery is gone again to Lions to hasten every thing.

I don't know what M. Argençon meant by sending you word, that your Army was reduc'd to 18 Regiments: I am sure there has been no change since the first Project, which I here send you. We have had several times a mind to augment it, but it was altogether impossible.

When we added the Regiment design'd for Dauphine, un­der his Royal-Highness's Name, it was all over and above the Complement, without taking any out. In a word, I protest to you, before God, that there is not one thing that were practicable, but would be done for the Dutchess's sake, whose welfare is as dear to the King as she could any ways wish it.

For the better preservation of her Dominions, it is abso­lutely necessary for the future, that she resolve to winter a Body of Men in her Country sufficient for her defence; for otherwise the Enemies will be continually surprizing her be­fore it is possible for any Troops to come from France.

I won't tarry any longer upon this Discourse, which, how profitable soever for the future, is fruitless for the present; and which will but put you in mind, that the Dutchess might have taken such Measures as her Brothers should not have rea­son to promise themselves the doing all the mischief they can desire. You are so judicious that you'll lose no Opportunity to open her Eyes to her own good, when occasion requires. Wherefore, without saying more, I shall only assure you of the sincere and inviolable Friendship I shall always have for you, and that I will endeavour to make it appear by several circumstances, that M. de la Valette means more and more to crown his ill Conduct. I have communicated to Sieur Talon a new Accident upon this Subject, which happen'd through the Imprudence and Malice of a Lady. M. de Chavigny will write you more at large. Such Designs I hope in God will be of no effect. I am and will be always, &c.

LETTER CXLVI. To the Dutchess of Savoy.

I Do not at all doubt but your Highness is extreamly trou­bled at what pass'd lately in Piemont: But, with submis­sion, I do not think you have so great reason to be concern'd, because your Highness has so good a Brother, our King, who is resolv'd to employ all his Force to protect and assist you, and to prevent your Brethren from accomplishing their ill designs. M. de Chavigny, whom the King sends you on this account, can acquaint your Highness with the extraordinary Efforts are preparing in France for that purpose, as also with the Troops that are sending to Piemont for its defence, and how largely I have contributed towards these Resolutions. I humbly desire your Highness to put an entire confidence in him, as in a Person of the choicest merit; and to believe I would omit nothing, to my power, to assure your Highness how much I am, Madam, your Highness's most humble and most obedient Servant, Richelien.

LETTER CXLVII. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

THese few Words are not to acquaint you with my Con­cern for the Misfortunes in Piemont, because I am as­sur'd you are throughly sensible of that already: But to in­form you, that, providing the Dutchess is willing to be as­sisted, there is nothing, that is in the King's power, but he will do, to oppose the unjust Oppression of the Spaniards and her own Subjects. All depends only upon a reasonable time to relieve her.

I send you M. Chavigny, in Quality of Embassadour Extraor­dinary to the Dutchess, to assure her of his Majesty's utmost Protection: As also, that M. Longueville is coming to her re­lief with a new Army. I suppose you have not omitted to provide carefully for Carmagnolle, and to advise her Highness to secure the principal Places of her Dominions.

Coni and Revel, together with Pignerol, are sufficient to preserve the Head of the Valleys. You know, moreover, of how great importance are Nice and Mommelian.

We will dispatch, to Morrow, a Courrier to Monsieur the Count d'Alez, that, according to your desires, he have 1000 Foot ready to put into Nice and Villa Franca, when ever the Dutchess shall command 'em, providing he have Authority left to supply the French Garrison in their room.

If the Inhabitants of Turin shew but the least dubious Af­fection, you must not think of disarming 'em.

We are making all imaginable expedition to send an Army into Piemont. In God's Name, Sir, take care of yourself; for I can assure you, if there were no other consideration, than your safety, I would do whatever was in my power to rid you honourably out of this Affair; always desiring your Friendship, and that you would admit me, &c.

LETTER CXLVIII. To Monsieur Emery.

I Have seen all your Dispatches, on account of the Affairs of Italy, since your arrival in Dauphine. I acknowledge your Care, Diligence, and Affection, cannot be greater for the King's Service; and, I'll assure you, it is not in his Majesty's Power to do more for Relief of the Dutchess, being resolv'd, over and above the Army of the Cardinal de la Valette, to send M. Longueville, for the greater Security of her Dominions, and to [...]protect her against the utmost Efforts of her Ene­mies.

I am surpriz'd at the Spaniards Resolutions to besiege Tu­rin, and of their having so great an Army, as you advise me; but, if they that have the Place entrusted to 'em do but their Duty, I hope they'll receive a Baffle. M. Longueville's Army goes hence Wednesday, and will be at Lions before the Gene­ral Rendezvouz.

You must acquaint the Dutchess with the great Succours are sending to her.

M. Longueville commands both Armies, whilst the Cardinal de la Valette is to be in the Conclave, but afterwards each has his several Post.

M. de la Mothe has Orders sent him, without expecting M. Longueville's Army, to march immediately with 4000 Foot and 1000 Horse, to secure the Pass of Escluse, and when Longueville is arriv'd, you are to attempt the Relief of the Dutchess with French-Bravery.

You must give out speedy Orders for Magazines in Savoy, for the subsistance of M. Longueville's Troops.

'Tis absolutely necessary to possess yourselves of Carmag­nolle, Villeneus and Cahours, and, if you can, of Revel and Coni; all which it is not believ'd the Dutchess will be apt to refuse, seeing that without 'em you can't secure the Country, but with great difficulty.

'Tis thought very requisite to store Cazal well with Money. But as to the 2000 Men, propos'd to be sent thither, 'tis [Page 182] thought more necessary to encrease the Army that is to re­lieve the Dutchess, and to seize upon Carmagnolle, Villeneuf, and Ast, and other places, that may make the Communication entire. For this purpose Carmagnolle must be well furnish'd with all sorts of Ammunitions, at the same time that you put Men into it.

As for Father Monot, the Dutchess must be very ill advis'd if she does not send him to France.

If the Dutchess have not order'd, by the Marquess de Ville, that the French be forthwith admitted into the above-nam'd places, you must speedily advise the Cardinal de la Valette, that her Dutchy will be lost without it, that she may timely repair her error, and put 'em into your hands, and which I have hopes she will be the more willing to consent to, in that the places are not much to be suspected, and that she will sooner chuse to entrust us with 'em, for their security, than to hazard their being taken by the Spaniards.

Monsieur de Chavigny, being upon the place, I am assur'd you will together omit nothing that may advance this impor­tant Affair.

The Sieur Noyers will answer Demands about Money, and the Sieur de la Barde your Desires concerning Letters.

LETTER CXLIX. An Answer to the Embassadour of Sa­voy 's Memoir.

I Have seen the Embassadour's Memoir, which contains all that can or ought to be done, as well for relief of Turin, as for the safety of Piemont in general.

There remains only, that the Contents be put into speedy execution.

I have sent a Copy of it to Messieurs Chavigny and Emery, and have acquainted them, that the Count of St. Maurice is to send another Memoir to her Highness's Ministers, and to herself, if it can be thought to pass secure.

The principal Point is to provide betimes for the security of those Places that are pitch'd upon, fearing that the French [Page] may not be admitted till they can keep 'em no longer them­selves, and consequently then not be able to do 'em any Ser­vice; when, on the contrary, if they be diligently taken care of, as is judiciously observ'd in the Memoir I have seen, I verily believe we might easily relieve Turin, or at least se­cure Piemont, and take it again afterwards.

It remains therefore, that the Embassadour take care to in­fluence those that Treat for Her Highness at Pignerol, omit nothing to put the said Council in Execution, as his Maje­sty's Ministers will do the like.

LETTER CL. To Monsieur Chavigny.

WE have received a Memoir, drawn by the Count de Saint Maurice, which is very good. The Contents are chiefly to provide plentifully, and to lose no time.

I am assur'd you'll do for your part whatever is in your Power, and that the Dutchess's Ministers abroad will not be a­sleep at this Juncture.

Furthermore, I earnestly intreat you to seek all means, if the Circumvallation of Turin be not yet made, to furnish 'em with more Powder. Perhaps the Count de Guiche, with her Highness's Cavalry, and those he shall have from France, both which I know will amount to above 2000 Horse, may effect it by this Contrivance. This Valet de Chambre of the Dutchess's assures me, that he can guide 'em in unknown ways, which may mightily facilitate such an Attempt.

I protest to you, the Affairs in Piemont almost kill me.

Monsieur Longueville goes hence to morrow Post. Mon­sieur de la Motte is commanded to march with all the hast imaginable with 4000 Foot and 1500 Horse.

Monsieur Emery is provided of the Money he defired, par­ticularly upon his last Terms.

At the same time that the Troops design'd for Italy are marching, do you and Monsieur Emery presently go upon raising more Recruits that may be ready, the latest at the end of the Summer. Monsieur Emery is well acquainted how this has been used to have been done.

Pray take extraordinary Care of the Ambassador of Savoy's Memoir, who has also promis'd to send one to the Dutch­ess's Ministers at Pignerol. You must also be wary not to give 'em Suspicion, that we secure their Towns with any other End but their Dutchess's Service. I suppose they will easily be satisfy'd, that if we have 'em not, they must of necessity fall into the Hands of the Spaniards.

LETTER CLI. To the Same.

I Have writ you cursorily by Gordon your Commissary. There's nothing left to do, but to tell you, that I think it would be very proper to get the Nuncio out of Turin, and to encourage the Count Philippi, that he may have no occasion to encline the Dutchess to a dishonourable Treaty with her Brothers, which would certainly be both Hers and His Ru­ine. I conjure you to do whatever is in your Power, to get more Powder into the City. La Valleé says he can be a safe Guide.

LETTER CLII. To the Cardinal de la Valette.

THis little is only to assure you, That we do whatever is in our Power to second your Generosity, and relieve Her Highness, which I hope will not be long before it will be accomplished, as the Marquess of St. Chaumont will acquaint you further. His Majesty has already dispatched away Mon­sieur Longueville, who commands the Army in Italy, over and above yours, which is also forwarded with all imaginable Di­ligence. If I were capable of serving Her Highness in Person, [Page 185] I'll assure you I would quickly be with you to the purpose. I am, and will be, always, my Lord, your most Humble, and most Affectionate Servant.

LETTER CLIII. To Mareschal Schomberg.

I Have received the Dispatch you sent me, to prevent the ill Offices might be done you by the Prince; and I can assure you, he has as yet made no Complaint against you. But to tell you the truth, having communicated your Letters to the King, his Majesty was of Opinion, that the Caution you made use of towards the Prince, sending him word you should not be ready to enter the Enemies Countrey till the 15th of June, might have been of very ill Consequence; for by these means you might have retarded the Performance of the whole Army, fool'd away this Campagne, and utterly ruin'd his Majesty's Af­fairs. I don't know who was the Author of this Counsel; but sure I am, it was very ill advis'd.

As to the Change of Rendezvouz which you desire, Mon­sieur Noyers has writ you what is fit to be granted. But altho' you had no Money at the beginning of your Campagne, yet that would not interupt the King's Service, it being unadvi­sable to pay Soldiers just at their coming out of their Winter-Quarters, when they are supposed to be full of Money. His Majesty does not intend to pay his Armies on this side before the first of July, altho' it is above twenty days, that under Monsieur Melleraye has been in the Enemies Country. Also the Prince is order'd not to pay his but after the same manner.

On God's Name, Sir, make no Difficulties of this kind. But be sure to remember, that the end of the Campagne the King will be oblig'd to distinguish between those that have done well, and those that have serv'd with small Zeal and Affection. I know very well you'll be of that Number, who have signa­liz'd both their Courage and Fidelity. So you may assure yourself, that I will do whatever is in my Power to improve your Services, and to convince you that I am, &c.

LETTER CLIV. To Mareschal Chatillon.

WIthout doubt you have heard of the Misfortune hap­ned to Monsieur Feuquieres, thro' the Cowardice of his Cavalry, and the rash Resolution of Picolomini, who at­tach'd him with not above 12000 Men Horse and Foot: But nevertheless, Monsieur Feuquieres gain'd a great deal of Ho­nour in his own Person. We have not lost above 3000 Men. The Enemies had almost all their Infantry cut off, and by the last Courrier we understand positively that they had 5000 kill'd upon the place.

The Duke of Lorraine, who was not in the Fight, has since joyn'd Picolomini's Horse with 3 or 4000 Foot of Luxemberg, wherewith they are march'd streight to Verdan.

The King desires that from Mezieres, where he supposes this Express will meet you, you would immediately march towards the Enemy, to prevent their taking any place by Sur­prize. I am well assured you will lose no time, diligence be­ing so necessary upon these occasions, and whence principal­ly depends the fafety of Towns, where they have been wrought into a Pannick Fear. You may encrease your Army with Swiss, as you march; and moreover, the scatter'd Troops of Monsieur Feuquieres may joyn you when you have an Op­portunity to send securely for 'em.

I hope you will be so happy as to repair the Honour we have lost, and that your Horse will so far scorn the baseness of those of Monsieur Feuquieres, that they may restore the Name of the French Cavalry to their former Grandeur. In God's Name make all possible hast, and provide your self of whatever shall be requisite in the place where you go. In the Interim, I desire you to believe that I am, &c.

P.S. Thanks be to God, the Siege of Hesdin goes on every day better and better. The Miners are working under the two Bastions we are going to Attack.

LETTER CLV. To the Same.

THe King having sent the Sieur Cornillon to Monsieur Pi­colomini, about what he will acquaint you with, I could not suffer him to depart without assuring you of the continu­ance of my Affection, and to tell you that I do not question but you will revenge the Loss at Thionville, when Occasion presents. I expect this from your Name, your Courage and Zeal for the King's Service, and you shall command in re­turn whatever you can desire, from one who is sincerely and unfeignedly, &c.

LETTER CLVI. To Monsieur Choisy.

THis Leter comes to tell you, That a French-man came lately from Flanders, on purpose to acquaint the King, that M.D.L.V. is gone under a Disguise to Brussels, where after having seen the Cardinal Infant, they had sent him into Luxemburg, and, as it is believ'd, to Thionville. I don't know, whether this News be true or not, but for some time we have been advis'd he design'd such a Journey. I would have you acquaint Monsieur Roquepine with it, and con­sult all together; that is, the Sieur Campelz, Monsieur Gran­çay, Yourself, and Monsieur Roquepine, what is fit to be done next, not only to secure Metz, but also to take away all man­ner of suspition. The King has been inform'd, that there are several old Sergeants and Corporals, well-wishers to M. D. L. V. in the Companies, whither he has lately sent Captains. If this be so, the Sieurs Roquepine and Campelz, in whom his [Page 188] Majesty puts an entire Confidence, must needs know it, and therefore it will be adviseable to pack 'em off to a convenient distance.

This is very certain, that M.D.L.V. has profer'd the King of Spain, to undertake Metz, and put the place speedily in­to his hands, but to know if he be gone to Brussels, as we are inform'd, is not a thing of the same likelihood. I hope you will assure Messieurs Roquepine and Campelz of my Affection; and by communicating to 'em my Letter, testifie the entire Confidence we repose in 'em. The Trust the King puts in your Prudence, inclines me to believe you will omit nothing that may be for his Majesty's Service; and furthermore, gives me occasion to assure you how much I am, &c.

LETTER CLVII. To Mareschal Chatillon.

THis Billet is to acquaint Monsieur the Mareschal Chatil­lon, that Picolomini lay the day before yesterday, the 29th of this Month, at Maubeuge, and that it is believ'd in­stead of going to Givay, he will march to Namure. It belongs to my said Sieur the Mareschal, to determine if he will make the two Intrenchments he advis'd me of, on the two sides of the Mountain, where he reckons to pitch his Field of Battle. To morrow shall be sent him 6 Companies of Swiss, who come from Mezieres, Charleville, and Maubeuge, together with the Regiment of Aubeterre, which has near 1000 Men. I have sent in quest of the Miners. The good Event consists in all imaginable Diligence wherein I am well assured, nothing will be omitted on the part of the Mareschal Chatillon, to whom I am, &c.

LETTER CLVIII. To the Same.

I Send Monsieur the Mareschal, the Miners, which he desir'd from Sedan, and I entreat him to keep 'em close to their Work.

To day he'll receive the Swiss, with the Regiment of Au­beterre. I conjure him to cause the two small Intrenchments which he writ me about, and which secure his Quarters, to be open'd to morrow morning.

I don't believe Picolomini will venture hither, but however we must be prepar'd as if he would. For this purpose I beg of Monsieur the Mareschal, to remember that he came upon Monsieur Feuquieres thro' Woods to Thionville; and that it seems to me, he may do the like here by the Quarters of Monsieur de Prastani, or behind yours. It might therefore be not amiss to change the Quarters of the Cavalry, and place 'em where they may more conveniently joyn yours: Upon the right Management of which, the good success of this Af­fair is altogether grounded. But above all, it seems necessa­ry to send Scouts frequently out, and so far that they may timely learn the intended March of our Enemies. I conjure my dear Mareschal to this, and to be assured that I am, &c.

LETTER CLIX. To the Same.

JUst now arriv'd a Gentleman from the Lord Steward, to bring His Majesty News of a Battle lately fought with the Enemies near Manquerque the 3d of this Month, where His Majesty's Arms have obtained a Noble Victory.

He reports that Monsieur Melleraye, with the Van-guard of his Army, met and fought the Enemies, commanded by the Marquess de los Fuentes so prosperously, that without having lost above 100 or 120 Men, he became Master of the Field, took 4 Pieces of Cannon, and near 300 Prisoners, amongst whom are many Spanish Officers; and all these, besides 1500 left dead upon the spot: And moreover, that if our Soldiers had not been too hot upon their Plunder, the rest of the Spa­nish Army might have partaken of the like Fate.

In this Fight we have had about 30 Officers killed and wounded, amongst which poor Montclair had his Left Arm shot off by his Shoulder. This Battel lasted from Nine in the Morning till Seven at Night, wherein Messieurs de Gassion and de la Ferté-Senneterre, who commanded the Van-guard, per­formed Wonders. All the Voluntiers also have signaliz'd themselves bravely upon this occasion.

LETTER CLX. To Mareschal Schomberg.

I Have no other Answer to make you about your Com­plaints against the Prince, but that I verily believe you have no reason to fear. Nevertheless, as I am well assured you will omit nothing that is for the King's Service, so it will be but Prudence to give him all the Respect that is due to his Quality. The King loves him extreamly for his Loy­alty, and I honour him particularly for the same Reason. These Considerations, accompanied with those of his Birth, may encline you to bear him no further ill Will. I conjure you to it with all imaginable Earnestness, and desire you to believe that I will be always, &c.

LETTER CLXI. To the Same.

I Don't pretend to hasten you to the Relief of Salces, be­cause I know your Zeal for the King's Service, and the particular Interest you have in the preservation of that Place, will prove sufficient Motives to incline you not to lose a Mi­nute's time: But my Business, at present, only is, to remem­ber you how much it will be for the Reputation of his Maje­jesty's Arms, and the good of his Affairs in general. I hope you won't be less fortunate than you were at Leucatte, and that, if the Spaniards have but the courage to stay for the King's Army, you will make known to 'em how much you are able to do: I wish it with all my heart, and furthermore desire you to pay the Prince all that deference is due to his Quality and Charge, to the end that his Majesty's Affairs may proceed vigorously, and I have a fairer occasion to recom­mend your deserts, who am unfeignedly, &c.

P. S. I beg of you to pass by some rash Humours in the Prince, and which are only the Effects of his Natural Constitution and his Extraordinary Zeal for the King's Service. You know what I have always been to you, and what I still am. In God's Name, Do whatever you can to shame the Spaniards in their Ʋndertaking, and assure yourself I will never suffer your Actions to be obscur'd, but take all imaginable Care to set 'em in their due light.

LETTER CLXII. To Mareschal de Chatillon.

THese few Lines are to acquaint you, That the King would be glad, if, before you put your Army into Garison, you would demolish the small Castles about Metz, which are in your Instructions with Sancy. Nevertheless he refers it to your Judgment, assuring himself, that as you would not be wanting in what was for his Advantage, so you would not un­dertake what would be any ways prejudicial. I pray God as­sist you in your Endeavours; and I conjure you to believe that I am, &c.

LETTER CLXIII. To the Same.

I Think fitting to add nothing to what you are order'd by Monsieur Noyers, not doubting but you will do what­ever is in your power to comply with the King's Pleasure. I shall only acquaint you, I should be very glad you would ef­fect something before you put your Men into Garison; and this, as well for the King's Satisfaction, as to advance your own Interest in his Favour. You may be always assured of my constant Esteem, and that I am, &c.

LETTER CLXIV. To Mareschal Schomberg.

MOnsieur Tagenac returning to you, I thought fit to send you this Letter, to testifie a-new the Satisfaction I have in his Business, and of the Assurances he has given me on your part, of your Resolutions to relieve Salces, if pra­cticable. The Confidence I repose in your Courage, your Sincerity, and your Carefulness, makes me look upon this Design as good as finished, and to be almost assur'd, that God will bless the Justice of the King's Arms under your Conduct. I pray for this with all my Heart; and desire you, Sir, to be­lieve, that I will recommend your Services upon this occasi­on in such manner, that you shall have no reason to believe any body values and esteems you more, than he that is truly and sincerely, &c.

LETTER CLXV. To Cardinal Bagni, concerning the Af­fairs of Monsieur Scoti.

THE Friendship I have always had for you, has made me hitherto decline what I thought might trouble you; But at length give me leave to acquaint you with the unadvised and rash Behaviour of Monsieur Scoti, some Months ago per­petrated, and since condemned by all the World. Nay, at present his Proceedings are so very extravagant, that I shall forbear Particulars for the same Reason. I am willing to be­lieve, however, that this good Prelate has a great deal of Zeal; but, certainly, he is so unacquainted with France, and [Page 195] deviates so much from the good Instructions you have given him, that it will be rather prejudicial than advantageous to him in the end, if he does not moderate his Heat. I refer you for a further Account to the Relation I have order'd Mon­sieur Chavigny to send you.

Sir, I take no notice of what he may say in my Prejudice, because, on the one side, I am willing to forgive all upon God's Account; and on the other, I think my self suffici­ently known in the World, not to fear any Aspersion, that I would wrong, thro' a private Interest, the very meanest of Persons. I wish to God your Eminence may be capable of working upon this turbulent Spirit, that he may deserve a better Character than he has already with most People, and that you would be pleased to make use of all occasions to ex­perience the sincere Professions that I am, and will be al­ways, my Lord, &c.

LETTER CLXVI. To Mareschal Schomberg.

I Send from Mance directly to your Quarters, to know what is to be farther done at Leucatte. It seems strange to me, that although there have been 80000 Livres remitted thither for the Works, yet there is nothing much advanced, although the Place be so very important both to the King and the Country, as the first Town that it is likely the Enemies will pitch upon. I promise my self however, that you will speedi­ly contribute for the future what is in your Power, that it may be forthwith out of Danger; which prevents my saying more at present, but that I am, &c.

LETTER CLXVII. To the Mareschals Chaunes and Cha­tillon.

MOnsieur Noyers having acquainted you by the Return of Sieur Cornillon with the King's Pleasure as to the Pro­positions you made him, my Business is only to inform you of his Majesty's great Satisfaction for your being left in so good Condition, and to assure you afresh of the continuance of my Friendship and Service; and that I would be glad at any time to give you all imaginable Demonstrations, by making his Majesty sensible of your great Worth and Courage. In the mean time be assured that I am, &c.

LETTER CLXIX. To both the Same.

THe knowledge you have more than me, That, if possible, it were good to have two Strings to one's Bow, encou­rages me to think you will not take it amiss, if I propose, that in your Journey to Lillers, if you could surprize St. Ve­nant, which is but two Leagues off, it would much facili­tate your besieging Ayre, providing your first design should happen to fail.

As I desire you to consider of this, so I would not have you undertake it by any means, if you think it improper.

Monsieur Paluau will acquaint you with Monsieur Melleraye's Sentiments hereupon. In the mean time be assured, that I am unfeignedly, &c.

LETTER CLXXI. To both the Same.

I Can never enough express my joy for the happy beginning of your Siege, and which I hope will have the like pro­sperous end. For this purpose I think it absolutely necessary [Page 199] that you push on the Circumvallation with all imaginable di­ligence, and prevent, by your vigilance and carefulness, the Enemies putting any new Succours into the place. By these means I don't question but you'll accomplish your undertaking. I wish it with a great deal of earnestness, as well for the King's Honour as your Reputation: To both which I am a hearty Well-wisher, being cordially, &c.

LETTER CLXXII. To both the Same.

THE King arriving here Yesterday, was extreamly plea­sed, when I acquainted him that you work on the Cir­cumvallation with a great deal of Diligence. His Majesty says likewise, that on the first 15 days chiefly depends the Success of such an Enterprize; whereupon he has commanded me to conjure you from him to redouble your Care, and to push on the Circumvallation with so great Vigour, that the Enemies may have no Hopes of relieving the Place but by Force.

We shall take care you want no Provisions, and over and above what we now send you, at the end of this Month you shall have Biscuit Bread and Meal sent you for the next. And for this purpose you must provide a place to secure it, whe­ther it be by raising a Magazin, or placing it in Monsieur Mel­leraye's Quarters, as we have writ more particularly to the Bi­shop of Auxerre.

The Pay is certainly by this time gone from Paris, where­with you may acquaint your Army; and that, by God's Assi­stance, you shall want for nothing that is in the Power of, &c.

LETTER CLXXIII. To the Mareschals Chaunes and Cha­tillon.

THese few Words are only to advise you, to order your Convoys for the future, so strong, that they may have no occasion to be afraid of the Enemy. 'Tis thereupon ab­solutely the good Fortune of your Siege depends; wherefore I am assur'd of your utmost Diligence. I desire you to be mindful of this Advice, since the Enemies have no other way to frustrate your Designs. I beg of you to make me easie in this Particular assoon as possible, and to be assur'd that I am, and will be always, &c.

LETTER CLXXV. To both the Same.

I Take my Pen to rejoyce for the good Condition the Sieur de Choupes has inform'd us he left your Works in; like­wise for the Zeal and Affection which I find you continue for the King's Service, and the good Effects we have reason to promise ourselves from your Siege.

I have just now learnt, that the 200 Spaniards, which Monsieur Ranzau surrounded, had submitted themselves; which I take to be a matter of no small Consequence. I think you would do well to send 'em the first Convoy to Dourlans, whence they may be brought to this City, where they shall be well guarded. In the mean time, we may be in­form'd of their Quality, and what Exchange is proper to be made.

The Army's Pay is come hither, which waits only the Grand Convoy to depart. I don't question but you'll give all requisite Orders for its Security.

The King promises himself, that you will open your Trenches as soon as possible, and that you will carry on your Attacks briskly.

I shall not fail to recommend your good Services to his Ma­jesty, as often as you shall give me occasion, assuring you that I am, &c.

P. S. I pray you to have particular care of the 200 Spanish Prisoners, and to send 'em safe hither. There is great likelyhood there may be some considerable Officers amongst them under Disguise.

LETTER CLXXVII. To Mareschal Chatillon.

HAving understood that the Circumvallation of Arras was entirely perfected, I could not help expressing my Satisfaction about it; and the rather, to see French-men [Page 203] accomplish that which the Hollanders could not do in so short a time. I hope the Conclusion of your Siege will be as for­tunate as the beginning was prosperous; and which, that it may be, I'll assure you, neither my Prayers nor Endeavours shall be wanting; as also to seek all occasions to testifie how much I am, &c.

LETTER CLXXVIII. To the Mareschals Chaunes and Cha­tillon.

A Man must be blind that is not sensible, that if the Ene­mies had had a mind to attack the Circumvallation, they would not have done it before now; and that at pre­sent, if they have any such Design, they must needs be guilty of an unconceivable Extravagance, which is neither consi­stent with the Spaniards Humour, nor the present Condition of the Low Countries, which would be entirely ruin'd, if they should once lose a Field-battle.

This once granted, which is not only certain but evident, there's no body but must conclude their Designs could not be any other than to [...]ntercept the Convoys. Also over and above this general Reason, if they lay in wait at Beaufort, as was reported, it is plainly demonstrated.

Then the chief Business the Generals ought to have on their side, as we on ours, is to send a great Convoy, by which means the Siege of Arras may be continued without Interruption.

When it is ready to set out, the Generals ought to send a strong Body of Horse to meet 'em within a League and half of the Place whence they come, that they may have no Rea­son to apprehend any Danger in their Journey.

If the Enemies continue at Beaufort, the Generals will do well, if they can, to cut off some of their Convoys.

I also conjure once more the Generals to remember, that if they don't secure our Convoy, to which we can fit out but 1600 Horse, and 9000 Foot, in vain do they labour at the Siege of Arras, which must be taken, whatever rate it be at.

LETTER CLXXIX. To all three the Same.

WEdnesday or Thursday Night Mareschal Melleraye will come out of his Camp with 3500 Horse, and seem to go to Miraumont, but at the same time will march directly towards Vaux in the Road to Peronne.

At this Juncture we'll dispatch away our Troops of Corbie for Miraumont, and yet the whole Body shall go but to Ancre, while Parties only advance, to make 'em believe all will follow.

At the same time we'll dispatch a false Convoy from Dour­lans, which shall go as far as the Mountains. By these means the Enemy will have no regard but to Dourlans and Corbie, and give us leasure to dispatch in the Night from Pe­ronne a small Convoy of 200 Carriages, which Monsieur de Melleraye is to meet near Vaux.

LETTER CLXXX. To all three the Same.

WE have return'd Choupes, to have by him your last Resolution about the joining, and which shall be punctually perform'd, according to the Report he makes.

For fear he should be taken, you would do well to send a Duplicate of what he brings by two other different Di­spatches.

The Enemies are at Pas.

You must also take care to provide for the Security of the Pass from Corbie to Miraumont, as also from the Camp to the same place.

If the Troops of Leschelle are returned, being strengthned by Horse, we believe ours may go securely to Miraumont.

As to the Convoy which is to march the Day after the joining, it is the General's business to secure it by an oppo­site Campment to the Enemies, that they may not be able to cut off the Pass between Miraumont and Ancre.

We'll reserve 2000 Foot to guard the said Convoy, toge­ther with 400 Horse; but this would not suffice by any means, if we were not protected from the Enemies Army by the Opposition of yours.

In order to the joining of Mareschal Melleraye's Troops, the King thinks fit, that instead of going to encamp, he advance half way to meet the Mareschal Chatill [...]n; and that being join'd, they march immediately towards Buquoy, that the Enemies may not leave Pas, without being liable to be en­gaged by our Army in the Flank.

If the Enemies march off from Pas, the Generals must do the like, to obtain the same Advantage.

After they are encamp'd, they must send Advice to Corbie for the Convoy to march, which they must take care to se­cure by a considerable Party between Ancre and Miraumont.

Our Troops will carry Provisions for Six Days.

All shall be punctually perform'd that is desir'd, and with­out Delay.

Of Five Field Mareschals that are in the Army, three must be left with the Duke of Chaunes, of which Monsieur Guiche and Monsieur Gassion ought to be one.

LETTER CLXXXI. To all three the Same.

IF the Enemies are at Miraumont, as is reported, it will be impossible to join at Corbie, and very hazardous at Pe­ronne, because they won't be above two Leagues off from Fre­micourt.

In this case there is no other Remedy, but to make the best Shifts you can, and to lengthen out your Provisions, living upon Barley, Rye, or some other extraordinary way, so [Page 206] that you may make 'em last till the end of the Month.

We'll take care to send Corn to Hesdin and Doullens, that the Generals may send for it as often as the Enemies Motions will give 'em opportunity.

'Tis believ'd, that continuing the main Body of the Army at Corbie, the Enemies will be so jealous of the Pass of Mi­raumont, that they'll give the Generals an Opportunity to send 1500 Horses to Doullens for 50 Carriages, which shall be there ready for 'em; and that this Convoy may be secur'd, 3000 Horse are propos'd to be sent to meet 'em.

They may also send as many Carts as they please to Hes­din, where they shall be furnished with Corn and Flower.

The Generals must be sure to lose no Opportunity to send to Doullens and Hesdin for Provisions, because we cannot pos­sibly move from Corbie without the Enemies following us.

LETTER CLXXXII. To the Same.

THis Billet is to acquaint the Generals with my Concern, for fear the Convoy they have lately receiv'd, may en­cline 'em to omit some Opportunities to fetch the rest of the Provisions; but I hereby conjure 'em to slip none, nor to delay to send for the rest of the Corn that waits for 'em.

Having been thus earnestly entreated, as they have been by frequent Dispatches, to send for these Provisions, I don't doubt but they have done it, and furnished them with suffi­cient Guard for their Security.

In the Name of God, Gentlemen, be obedient, as above advis'd. I conjure you to it heartily, and will endeavour to acknowledge your Diligence. But if you neglect it in the least, for my part you may relieve yourselves.

LETTER CLXXXIII. To the Mareschals Chaunes and Cha­tillon.

I Earnestly entreat Messieurs the Mareschals to consider, that the taking of Arras does not depend chiefly upon frequent Provisions of Necessaries, but rather in advancing the Attacks so vigorously, that the Enemies, seeing them­selves pressed, may be obliged to surrender before they come to an Extremity.

I desire 'em to be sensible of the Importance of this Billet, and to give me a speedy Account to Satisfaction.

LETTER CLXXXIV. To both the Same.

THE King has been extreamly displeased to hear, by a Letter you sent to Monsieur Hallier, that your Mine will not be ready to do any Execution before the 15th of this Month. He has commanded me hereupon to conjure you from him, to make use of all extraordinary Efforts to spring it before that time; which I do with so much the more Zeal, as, over and above his Majesty's Service, I have for your Reputation. If Money can be any forwardness, I'll assure you it shall not be with held, but plentifully remitted to the Power of, &c.

LETTER CLXXXV. To the Mareschal Chatillon.

I Cannot express to you the King's Joy for your taking Ar­ras, and my particular Satisfaction for your behaving your self there so bravely. I must own I have always expected this good Success, as well from the Blessing of God, as the Care and Courage of those that serv'd in it. I take a parti­cular Pleasure in assuring you, that none esteems you so much as I, and from whom you may receive more sincere Effects of true Friendship, as being always, &c.

LETTER CLXXXVI. To the Mareschals Chaunes, Cha­tillon, and Melleraye.

THese few Words are only to acquaint you, That Mon­sieur Noyers will lie to morrow Night at Dourlans, which he will leave Friday Morning at Four, being the 17th, with the Convoy sent him by Monsieur Hallier, which is to conduct him to the Head of Canche, where I desire you not to fail to send 1000 Horse to see him to the Camp.

He brings you the Remainder of the Pay, and what else is necessary for the Works. You are too well acquainted with the Esteem and Value I have for him, not to fail to send such Safeguard as I have desir'd. Omit it by no means, but believe that I am, &c.

LETTER CLXXXVII. To Mareschal Chatillon.

YOU will be inform'd by Monsieur Noyers, that we are unmindful of nothing that may render Arras able to resist a Siege, if the Enemies were inclin'd to attempt it. It shall in a short time be provided of all kinds of Provisions. Over and above Corn, we will store it with Peas, Beans, Rice, Butter, Cheese, Salt-fish, Bacon, Oil and Candles. We will not also forget Drugs, Medicines, and old Linnen.

As to the Ammunitions of War, we will leave 200000 Weight of Powder, 8 great Cannon, and 12 small, over and above those that were before in the Town.

For your part, it is your Business to hasten the Works of the Town, and to do whatever is in your Power to maintain your Army in a good Condition.

Monsieur Noyers has writ largely about what relates to the Works to the Sieur Arnold, who is upon the Place.

As to the Army, the King has commanded me to acquaint you, that for the Preservation of it, you would do well to license no Officer to be absent, if he be not sick or wound­ed. I conjure you to this Practise, as well for the King's Ad­vantage, as your own particular Interest, that you may not incur the Character of being too Indulgent where a stricter Discipline is requir'd.

His Majesty thinks proper that you demolish all the Lodg­ments through the whole Extent of the Circumvallation, and which we made use of ourselves during the Siege, that they may be of no use to the Enemy; but if that they should think fit to besiege it in the latter Season, the bare Incom­modity of bad Weather, might be alone sufficient to ruine their Army. I beseech you to have a particular Regard to what you are above desir'd, and to believe that I am, &c.

LETTER CLXXXVIII. To the Mareschal Chatillon.

THE Spaniards refusing to perfect the Treaty for Ex­change of Prisoners, I write you this Letter to desire you to cause a strict Search to be made throughout the whole Army for the Prisoners that are in it, and to send 'em safely to this City, where they shall be kept according to the King's Command. I am assur'd you'll make no Diffi­culty of this; wherefore I shall conclude with fresh Prote­testations, that I am, and will be always, &c.

P. S. You may satisfie all such as shall have these Prisoners, that I will be responsable for their Ransom, and will a­ctually pay 'em ass [...]on as they shall come out of Prison. The Count de Fuensaldagne had a Meeting promis'd to treat of Exchanges with the Count de Guiche; but before they met, the former sent a Trumpet to acquaint the latter, that the Cardinal Infant had revoked his Commission, in case he would not give his Word first to exchange Jean de Wert with the Marquess de Gesvres. To which he was answered, That Jean de Wert was already ex­changed with Monsieur Horn, which was true; but ne­vertheless the Negotiation broke off.

LETTER CLXXXIX. To Mareschal Schomberg.

MY Business is not to answer the Commendations you load me with on account of the taking Arras, because it is to be ascribed only to the Blessing of God on our Arms, [Page 211] the Justice of our Cause, and the Prudence and Courage of his Majesty. But I will content myself to tell you, that I do not doubt but you are sincere in your Joy upon this Ac­count, being always assur'd of your Steadfastness and Loy­alty for the King's Service. To recompence which to my Power, will always be the Endeavours of, &c.

LETTER CXC. To Mareschal Chatillon.

I Send you 100, or 120 Deserters, which have been stopt in this Town; and amongst which there are a great many Officers. I desire you would try 'em by a Council of War as soon as possible. Over and above that his Majesty's Interest requires, he has expresly commanded me to acquaint you with his Pleasure on this Account. I desire you to remem­ber, that the Officers hitherto have escaped unpunished; wherefore it would be well to let these serve for Examples. The Belief that I have, that you will approve your Obedience to his Majesty's Commands, concludes me, &c.

LETTER CXCI. To the Same.

I Have been surpriz'd to hear, that you have not yet re­trench'd your Bread, but distributed every Day above 30000 Rations; which occasions me to represent to you, that if you go on after that rate, you will introduce great Disor­ders into his Majesty's Army, and reduce the War to unsur­mountable Difficulties. I am certain you will be ready to confess, that there is no Reason to pretend to have but 15000 Men effectively in your Army, and yet to distribute above [Page 212] 30000 Rations of Bread per Day. I desire you to remedy this Disorder, that I may give his Majesty an Account; and moreover, take care to subsist your Army. In regard of your Reputation, I don't question but you'll be mindful of this Advice, and how much I am, &c.

LETTER CXCII. To the Same.

THE daily Complaints are made us, as well by the Wag­goners that go to and from Arras and your Army, as by the Sutlers that come from thence, of the ill Conduct of the Convoy, chiefly at the return of the Waggons, whereby they affirm, That the Germans, since the beginning of the Siege, have taken above 30000 Crowns, or Value, which obliges me to write you this Letter, to desire you to remedy this Disorder, and by your Authority to prevent the like for the future. I am assur'd you are so very sensible of the ill Consequence of this Affair, that I think it needless to say more. Nevertheless I cannot help telling you, that if you do not take more care of the Waggons, Sutlers and Traders for the future, which come and go to and from the Camp, it will be impossible to subsist the Troops, and defend Arras, as the King has commanded. I conjure you once more to put an end to these Inconveniences, and to believe that I am and will be, &c.

LETTER CXCIII. To Mareschal Chatillon.

I Don't question but you'll take all the Care imaginable of the Discipline of the Army. I am very glad to hear you have regulated the Bread, and that you will punish the De­serters [Page 213] hereafter to your Power, and endeavour to prevent the like Disasters. I have seen what you have writ me from divers places, whereby you signifie you are able to subsist the Army till the end of this Month. Upon which I have no­thing to say, only that you knowing the King's Pleasure not to have his Army come into France before the Conclusion of the Month, you would do prudently to keep 'em where they are, or towards St. Pol on this side, or towards the Quarters of Theronenne on the other, till the said time be ex­pired. As to the Post of Marquion and Inchy, besides many other Reasons, the Difficulty of getting Provisions, by reason of Bapaume and Cambray, were alone sufficient to lay aside that Design. I therefore beseech you, Sir, to subsist the Army where they are, and where-ever else you shall judge most commodious, till the end of this Month; and to be­lieve that there is no body sets greater store by your Friend­ship, nor desires to give more frequent Proofs of his own, than, &c.

LETTER CXCIV. To the Same.

COming to Understand by your Letter to Monsieur Noyers, that you intend to march from where you are, Friday next, I write you this, to reinforce what I have formerly ad­vised you on this account, that it is very requisite for the King's Service, that you think of some means to subsist the Troops in this, or some neighbouring Place, till the end of this Month, and this for several Reasons that I cannot ac­quaint you with at present. I pray you therefore, for my sake, to endeavour it to your Power, and to assure yourself I will recommend this, as also all other your past Services, to his Majesty's Consideration, that you may be deny'd no­thing from him, as by me who am, &c.

LETTER CXCV. To the Same.

IT would be to no purpose to have taken Arras, if we don't endeavour to preserve it; and which may easily be done, providing it be well stor'd with every thing. Upon this ac­count 'tis necessary for the Army to continue where it is, or thereabouts, till the end of this Month, which is the shortest time can be propos'd to provide the Town of Provisions as it ought to be.

These Provisions, as it is contriv'd, cannot possibly come by any other way than Dourlans, seeing some of the Corn comes from Abbeville and Xaintonge by Sea; which is the Reason, that without great Incommodities, and wasting the Scason, they cannot be otherwise had. But as the Armies lie, this way will be the most convenient.

Also, providing the Armies were at Marquion, the Convoys could not come by Dourlans, because of the Promise to the Merchants; therefore there would be much greater Diffi­culty for the Carriages to come so near Bapaume than there is at present. And tho' they could be secur'd from time to time by sufficient Convoys, yet the Sutlers coming to and fro, being very necessary for the Armies better Subsistence, would be absolutely interrupted.

These Reasons conclude, That tho' there be some small Inconveniences to be suffer [...]d, even where the Army of Mon­sieur Chatillon is at present; yet it is much better than to tempt unavoidable Hazards in going by Marquion. Where­upon Mare [...]chal Chatillon is desir'd to make use of such Pru­dence, Industry, and Authority, as Matters may proceed more conformable to good Conduct, and the earnest Wishes of his most Affectionate Servant, &c.

LETTER CXCVI. To the Same.

I Have received, with a great deal of Satisfaction, the News that Monsieur Mont-bas brought me on your Account. I hope it will always be to good Effect, and that God will be pleased to continue the King's Success under your Command. I wish it with a great deal of Sincerity, and intreat you to be­lieve that I will always endeavour to make your Merits suffi­ciently known.

I say nothing of your continuing in the Quarters, where you are, or thereabouts, because I writ largely of it yesterday; and that Monsieur Noyers has writ you of it at present. I shall conjure you only to consider well of it, and to be secure of the Continuance of my Friendship and Service, and that I am assuredly, &c.

LETTER CXCVII. To Mareschal Schomberg.

I Have seen your Letter, importing, That the Spaniards had a Design to besiege Narbonne, now they had agreed with the Catalonians. Whereupon I shall only say, that such Advice ought not to be altogether rejected; tho, for my part, I cannot believe they will undertake such an Enter­prize so late in the Year, and in a Country where there is neither Forage nor Wood to be had. Nevertheless 'tis good to be on our Guard, that we may not be surprized. There can be nothing more done for the Town's Security, than what you acquaint me has been already, if it were to be attacked; and I assure myself, you will not be less careful, and well-affe­cted, [Page 216] to prepare and assemble your Forces to drive out the Enemies, if they should enter your Province. Nothing shall be wanting from hence to assist you, as Monsieur Noyers has writ you more at large; to whom I refer you for further In­structions, assuring you that I am affectionately yours, &c.

LETTER CXCVIII. To Mareschal de Chatillon.

YOU will know by Monsieur Heudicourt, what I think farther requisite to be done for the rest of your Cam­pagne. I earnestly desire you to recruit your Horse well, that being put into Garison, they may be ready upon all oc­casions to resist the Enemy, if they should be Fools enough to molest us at Arras. I wish with all my Heart you may conclude your Campagne by beating up some of their Quar­ters, if they shall give you an Opportunity to do it with good Success. As I honour you extreamly, I should be overjoy'd of having a fresh occasion of recommending your Deserts, who am cordially, &c.

LETTER CXCIX. To Mareschal Schomberg.

I Have often discoursed Monsieur Alby about matters rela­ting to you. His Letters, I hope, will sufficiently acquaint you with the Continuance of my Affection and Friendship. All that I could desire for your greater Advantage is more Briskness.

The Prince is return'd towards your Government, but which I hope will cause you no Uneasiness; assuring you, there is nothing in the Power of any Man that can prejudice [Page 217] you, or hinder your Friends serving you to their Power. He has assur'd me, he has no ill Designs towards you; there­ [...] have [...] fresh occasions to believe the contrary, I desire you to think him your Friend.

Monsieur Noyers has writ you amply his Majesty's Mind as to the present Affairs. I conjure you to be hearty and care­ful, and to be assur'd that I am, and will be always, &c.

LETTER CC. To Monsieur Chatillon.

THE great Desire I have to see the Canal of Loire in the Seine finish'd as soon as possible, obliges me to conjure you anew, as I have done often before, to further the Work to your Power, according to the Letters Pattents sent you. The Offer the Undertakers make you, to indemnifie you, seems to me so reasonable, that I don't doubt but you will be satis­fy'd with it, and therefore will not fail to encourage the said Undertakers speedily about it, that it may be finished in October, as they have promised me, if they be not interrupted. Doing this, you will oblige me in particular to testifie, upon all occasions, how much I am, &c.

LETTER CCI. To Mareschal Schomberg.

IT having come to the King's Ears, that you have not be­hav'd yourself to Monsieur Epinan as you ought; I thought fitting, as your Friend, to acquaint you with it, and to give you my Opinion, that he being employ'd on so important an Account, you ought not to have entertain'd him with such Coldness and Indifference; but on the contrary, to have as­sisted [Page 218] him to your Power, that his Majesty's Business might be the likelier to succeed. His Majesty promises himself this from your Affection and your Zeal [...] on account of your own Interest; assuring you, I shall al­ways endeavour to be serviceable; and acquainting you, I have no greater Pleasure in the World, than to hear my Friends live in Amity together. I believe you will do what is to be desired on your part, as I earnestly conjure you; as also to believe, that I am truly, &c.

LETTER CCII. To the Same.

THE King having granted the Clergy a general Convo­cation, the better to facilitate their assisting his Ma­jesty with the Supplies desired, I write you this Letter, to desire you to employ your Interest, jointly with the Prince, that the Bishop of Nismes may be chosen for the Province of Narbonne, and de Pamiers the Nephew, or de Lombez, for Toulouze. Perhaps they may object, that some of these were of the last Assembly. But notwithstanding, those who mean best, think 'em the fittest to serve both Church and State. Upon this occasion I am to inform you, that the Regulations for deputing Bishops do not require observing either Place or Order. I also desire you to take care, that the Persons chosen for these Provinces of the second Order, may be affa­ble, and easie to manage. But you must be sure to conceal from all of 'em what I have writ to you hereupon. Only you may let 'em know that I would be glad to have his Ma­jesty satisfy'd herein. In all which I desire you to be assi­sting to your Power, and to be secure. I will secretly ac­quaint his Majesty with your great Zeal for his Service.

LETTER CCIII. To the Same.
From the Sieur Bodin 's Apartment.

YOu'll find by Monsieur Noyers's Dispatch, what the King's Service requires to be done for the Assistance of the Catalonians. I conjure you therefore, by the Affection I know you have for the Success of his Majesty's Affairs, to omit nothing possible to effect it; and to manage matters so, as Monsieur Motte may speedily enter their Country with the Troops design'd for their Relief, whilst you prepare the rest of the Forces to go and attack Collioure by Land, as you are more amply advised by Monsieur Noyers.

I need not inform you how advantageous this will be, be­cause you may know it as well as I; but I shall only tell you, how much it imports his Majesty's Reputation, to have it car­ryed on with all the Vigilance and Care imaginable. I am the better assur'd of your Diligence, in that you know how obli­ging it will be to me, and extreamly serviceable to his Ma­jesty, whom I shall always influence with your Deserts, as I am sincerely, &c.

P. S. I have just now order'd away Monsieur Bazanzon to Monsieur Bourdeaux, to press him to put to Sea as soon as possible, with the Vessels and Gallies under his Com­mand, to go and relieve the Catalonians, and to make themselves Masters of Cap de Quieres, and from thence to sail instantly to Collioure, to assist you by Sea in taking that Place.

LETTER CCIV. To the Same

THE Confidence I put in Monsieur Bezanzon prevents my saying any thing more, than that I desire you to give entire Credit to him, that you may make haste to enter Rousillon, to attack Collioure by Land, as has been order'd you. The Affair is of so great Importance, both to the King's Ser­vice and your Reputation; and so very easie, if well under­taken, as you have confessed, that I not doubt but you will accomplish what his Majesty has commanded. I conjure you to lose no time about it, but to believe that I am, &c.

LETTER CCV. To the Chancellour.

THE Interest of the State having been always what I have only had before my Eyes, I think at present that the Publick ought to be altogether satisfy'd by the knowledge of Monsieur Vendosme's Design against me, if I request his Maje­sty to pardon the said Monsieur Vendosme, and to approve of the Resolution I have taken to think no more of the Ill pro­jected against me: The King's Clemency upon this account not being granted, but upon my most humble Supplication, will, I hope, prevent their believing any likelyhood of such Undertaking for the future, his Majesty's Mercy being the chief Means to stop it. I beg of you, that you would get his Pardon pass'd, and believe that I am, Sir, your most affecti­onate Friend and humble Servant, &c.

LETTER CCVI. To Mareschal Chatillon.

HAving acquainted the King with your further Desires to have the Regiment of Piemont sent you, his Majesty has been pleased to do me the Honour, to let me know he is wil­ling it shall be so: And now, you having all that you can ask, to put your Designs in Execution, I hope you will not be backward in your Proceedings, but that you may speedily accomplish your Intentions, is the hearty Desire of, &c.

LETTER CCVII. To the Same.

THE King sends you Monsieur Fabert to acquaint you anew, that he approves your Design propos'd to him upon Sedan, but that he would have you first take Bouillon, as a place that may be capable of giving you a great deal of Di­version. We are inform'd the Enemies intend to fortifie Torcy, the bare Prospect of which is so great a Dishonour to the King's Arms, that I do not doubt but you'll speedily pre­vent 'em putting their Design in Execution. Remember, Sir, it very much concerns your Reputation, to let your Sol­diers lie idle, when they have so fair an Opportunity to in­terrupt so disadvantageous a Design, which, I am confident, they can never be able to maintain. The particular Kind­ness I have for you, over and above my Zeal for the King's Interest, causes me to conjure you to lose not one Minute, whereby you may advance your Name to that degree, the Ho­nour of your Ancestors requires. I am, &c.

LETTER CCVIII. To the Same.

I Am extreamly concern'd for the Misfortune besel you. God has been pleas'd to chastise the Count, and to give us a slight Scourge. We have all deserv'd it for our peculiar Faults; and you particularly, for want of Resolution to do that before, which you know you were oblig'd to both by your Duty and Conscience. I desire you to consider seriously of it, and to believe that I am, &c.

LETTER CCIX. To the Countess of Soissons.

I Can never enough express my Grief for your not having Command enough of your Son. If he had hearkned to your Advice, I am satisfy'd you would never have had the Affliction, which his Fault and his Death together must needs occasion you. I beseech God, from the bottom of my Heart, that he would be pleased to comfort you, assuring you that I am, &c.

LETTER CCX. To the Mareschal Shomberg.

I Can never enough thank you for your Remembrance of me, as also for the Affection you express for me in your Letter, of which I have never in the least doubted.

When the Siege of Perpignan is concluded, you would oblige me to come hither assoon as possible. Cardinal Maza­rine shall meet you before you arrive at Monpellier, to advise you what is thought fit to be done in pursuance of the Over­ture made by the Bearer. In the mean time, I Conjure you to believe I am, and will be always, &c.

This, and the other Letters which follow, of Cardinal Richelieu 's, writ by Monsieur Chere, or Monsieur Char­pentier his Secretaries, were sent without Signing, His Eminence being lame of his right Arm.

LETTER CCXI. To the Same.

PUblick Considerations being always to be preferr'd to Pri­vate, I believe you will think it requisite, assoon as you have receiv'd this Letter, to make a Progress about your Go­vernment, and the Frontiers of Guyenne, to gather such Re­cruits, both Horse and Foot, as you propos'd yourself. You will also be so near Perpignan, that you may presently be there upon any occasion requiring you. The King's Interest Obli­ges me farther to Conjure you not to omit putting your first Thoughts in speedy Execution, and I shall endeavour always to make known your Worth and good Service. In the mean [Page 225] time believe me, I desire you, Sir, your most Affectionate Ser­vant, &c.

LETTER CCXII. To the Same.

I Have receiv'd the Letter you were pleas'd to write me, together with the Memoir deliver'd me by this Gentleman the Bearer, whereby I understand the present Condition of your Siege of Perpignan, the Success whereof we must ex­pect with patience; but I hope, with God's Assistance, it may be such as we have had hitherto reason to believe. In the mean time, I give you a thousand thanks for your kind invita­tions to see me before I left this Country, and shall always be mindful of a Recompence to my power, who am your most Affectionate Friend and Servant, &c.

LETTER CCXIII. To the Mareschals Schomberg and Melleraye.

THese few words are only to tell you, that since Mareschal de la Motte is willing you retain still the 2000 Foot which were design'd for him, I have nothing more to say, but that I approve of the Agreement made between ye. As also of your good Conduct, from whence I expect speedily to hear of the taking Perpignan, and it may be, of your routing the Enemy. In the mean while I desire you to believe me, Gen­tlemen, Your most Affectionate Servant, &c.

LETTER CCXIV. To both the Same.

I Cannot incline to believe that the King can receive any great Advantage by the Militia, altho' you propose 'em to enter Catalognia by force: And in my Opinion, you would but deceive yourself by trusting to 'em, who will not care to march any farther when you shall talk of raising Troops, for fear they be trapan'd as they were once before.

Therefore in my Opinion, Mareschal Schomberg, Monsieur Alby, and Monsieur Nismes, would do better to chuse out of them between 1200 and 1500, who would go freely to serve in Catalognia, providing they might be promis'd to return about the end of October, and which ought to be faithfully perform'd.

Over and above these Troops, Tavannes Regiment, and the 300 men of Monsieur Villeroy, must be sent to Monsieur Motte.

You may also spare him the Regiments of Effiat, Cauvisson, and Montausier.

As to the Cavalry, I believe you may easily send him the nine Troops of Guards which continues with you till the end of October. Also Boisack's Regiment, who may serve himself in the quality of a Field-Mareschal. The Regiment of Lerans may also be dispens'd with.

As for Rousillon, I am of Opinion you ought to leave there the Horse-regiments of Anguien and Ballon, and that you di­spose of the rest of the Foot as you judge convenient, either to Rousillon, or the Frontiers of Languedoc; for if you should leave Rousillon altogether disfurnished of Men, you might soon repent it; for the Enemy might easily send by Sea to Roses 5 or 600 Horse, which might do a great deal of mischief in a short time.

The King's Will is, That you Blockade Salces up so closely, that it shall be impossible to relieve it. Which makes me think it not too much to leave two Regiments of Horse in Rousillon, and two or three of Foot for this purpose; as also to secure Lampourdan.

I have no Orders from the King, to allow you to leave Rou­sillon, till you have first laid Provisions into Perpignan to suffice 3000 Men for a Year. Two or three days ago I have dispatch'd away 100000 Livres we have borrowed for that purpose. In a word, be assur'd, Money shall never be wanting.

I say nothing to you of the Garrison of Perpignan, because the King has ordered thither the Swiss and Champagne, and you would do well to add a Regiment more. In the mean time, be secure of my Friendship, and that I am assuredly, &c.

LETTER CCXV. To Mareschal Schomberg.

YOu'll know particularly by Monsieur Besay, how well satis­fied His Majesty is with the Capitulation of Solces. He will also acquaint you how glad I am, as well for that, as your good Success at Perpignan.

All that you have now to do, in my Opinion, is, to esta­blish so good Orders in Rousillon, that the Country may reco­ver itself, and the Troops there be refresh'd.

If Mareschal de la Motte have any farther need of Assistance of Horse or Foot, and shall require 'em of you, the King would have you send him the Regiment of Anguien, and Contey, putting the Italians into Perpignan, in the room of those of Anguien, as also the Regiment of Horse of the same: but this only in case of need, or as the King's Service shall require. The said Monsieur de la Motte not lying far off, you may hear frequently from him, and Act pursuant to his Motions. So trusting altogether to your Zeal and Conduct, I conclude my self, Sir, your most Affectionate Servant, &c.

LETTER CCXVI. To the KING.

I Can't divine, what should be the reason of your Equipage of the hundred Artillery-Horse is not yet ready; I am sure, I gave Orders for it, assoon as ever your Majesty com­manded me. Monsieur Bullion, and Monsieur Servien have acquainted me, they have done all on their parts, and I be­lieve 'em. If it were for my life, I could not be more dili­gent, and careful, in your Majesty's Service; which I can­not believe, has been any ways retarded, since I am advis'd, from Monsieur Melleray, by Monsieur Bouthillier, that on Sa­turday last, the hundred Horse were sent to Chaalons.

I must own, at first, I was against your Majesty's Journey, fearing your Health might be impaired by your Natural Im­patience, of which I have often heard you accuse yourself: But since having assur'd me, both by yourself, and other Per­sons, that you were in perfect health, and fearing lest a disappointment might be to your prejudice, I have freely consented to your going; Assuring your Majesty, that if you can bear with the ordinary Incommodities of Travel, this Jour­ney will be very much for the Advantage of your Affairs. Also, I am so far from being against it, that I think it ought to be spee­dily perform'd, since you have given it out for some time, and sent Expresses of it to all your Armies, and Provinces.

After which, I hope your Majesty will give me leave, as an antient, and faithful Confident and Servant, to tell you, with all the Respect that is due to a Master, that if you are apt to believe the Intentions of your most confirm'd Creatures, are otherwise than they appear to be, it will so deaden and baffle their Spirits, that they will not be able to do you such Ser­vice, [Page 244] as they shall desire. And whereas the freedom you are pleas'd to give 'em, occasions their telling you frankly, what they think for your good, so you must not expect, they will have the same complaisance, in what relates to your Preju­dice. I conjure you, a God's Name, to make your Journey pleasant, and not to vex yourself at a thousand things, that may not happen to be perform'd, just as you expect. I in­treat you, also, at the same time, to believe, that whatever be your Pleasure, shall never be thought amiss, or thwarted, by a Person that prefers your Satisfaction infinitely to his own; and, who will be always more studious to Serve, and Please you, than to preserve his own Life; throughout the whole Course of which, he will endeavour to make known, by all his Actions, how much he is, your Majesty's most Duti­ful, and Obedient Subject, and Servant, &c.

The KING's LETTER, To Cardinal. Richelieu.

I Am very much concern'd for the haste I was in Yesterday, in writing you a Letter, on account of my Journey. I now desire, you would burn, and forget it at the same time: As also, believe, that as I would not be willing to Displease you in any thing, so I shall never have any other thoughts, but to follow punctually, your good Advice and Instructions. I desire you also, once more to forget— and satisfie me by this Bearer, that you think no more of it. As likewise, to assure yourself, that I shall be Uneasy, till I have another Opportunity, to testify the extream Affection I have for you, and which, Death can only put an end to; Beseeching God, with all my heart, that he would have you always under his awful Protection, &c.

LETTER CCXVII. To the KING.

I Have not endeavoured to forget the Letter you were pleas'd to write me yesterday, because I can assure your Majesty, I never took any thing amiss in it. I beseech you, farther, to acquaint me with all Transactions, and I will continue to send your Majesty my different Sentiments there­upon. What made me oppose your Journey at first, was, the knowledge I have of your Constitution, which might be capable of Disorder. But, on the contrary, the great Zeal I find you have to acquire Honour by your Arms, made me easily consent to it, as I do hereby a second time. But ne­vertheless, having seen a late Dispatch from Monsieur Vaube­court, I think it necessary you defer your going, till Saint Michael be invested, and your Troops gathered together. It is impossible there should not a great many Changes happen, in the Designs one undertakes in War, because Resolutions must be taken upon the spot, according to the Mation of the Enemies.

Otherwise one gains oftentimes more by Patience, which is required in some occasions, than by fighting; which is the reason that the French Nation being very forward, and hot in its Nature, is esteem'd by all the World, the least fit for War; when those that are not so lively, but more heavy, and less fiery, are thought the properest for it. I humbly beg of your Majesty, not to weary your self out, nor to be vex'd at any Backwardness you may imagine in your Servants. I can assure your Majesty, that I think myself, not a little ob­lig'd by the Letter you were pleas'd to honour me with, and am of Opinion, that if you had thought fit to chide me, which you never yet did, thro' the excess of your natural Goodness, your manner of writing, alone, is so obliging, that the satis­faction receiv'd by your charming words, from the Pen of so great a King, would abundantly surpass the Injury. The Let­ter which you are concern'd about, is far from offending the [Page 246] meanest of your Servants, as your last has extraordinarily oblig'd him. I return your Majesty a thousand humble thanks, for your concern for the death of my Sister, who, I dare say is happy, as well in respect of her being deliver'd from a great many pains she endured, as for ending her days with so sincere a love towards her Maker. I am, and will be always, &c.

LETTER CCXVIII. To Monsieur Chavigny.

I Send the King the Letter which he has desir'd, by which, he may find his Servants have not had any reason to Complain, as in truth, they never did, only they must needs be a little affected with his Majesty's concern for them. I have com­municated to Monsieur Bullion the Article which the King was pleas'd to send me on the Reverse of one of his Letters, which related to what Monsieur Hallier acquainted him; That he had no Fund to subsist the Troops that should arrive: Where­upon, he has assur'd me, and I know it to be true, that there has been 20000 Livres put into Chauley's hands, above these eight days, for that purpose. Also Monsieur Servien told me, he had acquainted Monsieur Hallier, that a Commissary of the Treasury, and an Ammunition Officer were sent toward him: And, to be sure, this Affair concerning him so much, Monsieur Hallier, by this time, has not been wanting to take due care. Nevertheless, Monsieur Bullion has sent a second Order, to dispatch another Commissary, that there may be no further occasion of Complaint. It were to to be wish'd, that those who Command the Armies, were as ready to obey Orders for their Subsistance, as they are often forward to complain, when for the most part, their Negligence is the truest cause of their want.

LETTER CCXIX. To the KING.

I Am overjoy'd to hear of your Health, and to find there is nothing to be added to the Answer which your Majesty writ Monsieur Angoulesme, and to the Resolution which had been taken. I don't believe those of St. Michael, expect your Majesty so soon, which I would not have 'em, that your Sol­diers may surprize and plunder 'em out of hand.

Monsieur Angoulesme, will, no doubt, be convinc'd by your Dispatch, that you know more of the Matter than he: And I cannot help once more acquainting your Majesty, That no­thing could be better thought on, than what you commanded him, and no more proper way to convince him of the weak­ness of his Designs.

The Swiss cannot be better bestow'd, than where your Ma­jesty designs 'em, in Champagne and Picardy, where I shall not fail to solicite earnestly, Monsieur Chatillon, to employ 'em in something, that may be for your Majesty's Advan­tage.

After all, I cannot but expect good Success, from the Pru­dent Measures your Majesty takes.

If my Life could deliver you from Melancholly, which I know afflicts you sometimes, I would freely lay it down for that purpose. But as it cannot, I shall only study to pre­serve it, to be employ'd, as often as there shall be occasion, for the greatest, and best Master in the World, to whom I will be eternally, &c.

LETTER CCXX. To the KING.

I Am rejoyc'd to hear by the Count, That your Majesty was never better in health, than on your Journey; as likewise, by the last Letters from Monsieur Bouthillier, that you had taken Physick, whence, thro' God's Assistance, we may hope a good Effect.

The Count also acquainted me, calmly, with the Affronts he thought he had receiv'd, complaining openly only of his Misfortune; and Monsieur Chavigny, who, he was of opinion, had power to prevent it. I told him what I thought requisite upon the matter, and must needs say, I left him pretty well satisfied. I can never enough wonder at the Baseness, Ignorance, or Malice of those, who, as your Ma­jesty acquaints me, endeavour to disparage your Designs. But I think it necessary to stop those Gentlemens Mouths, as soon as possible, in the same manner as your Majesty has done formerly some others.

The Pope treats the Duke of Parma after that rate, that it is necessary we take speedy care about him.

The Affair of Clauzel is of great Importance, but ha­ving writ largely of all to Monsieur Chavigny, I shall trouble your Majesty with no more, but that I am, and will be al­ways, &c.

LETTER CCXXI. To Monsieur Bouthillier.

I Suppose the Rebels of St. Michel won't go far beyond that place, without being taken by Force, or surrendering [Page 249] at Discretion. I know the King is resolv'd to use 'em with a great deal of Rigour, and I'll assure you, it is a matter of so great importance, that it is scarce to be exprest.

My Thoughts are, That the Officers deserve an immediate Punishment, even next to death.

As to the common Soldiers, the Gallies would be very pro­per for them, as the only means that should be allow'd to save their lives.

For what belongs to the Inhabitants, the Officers of Parlia­ment, and others, the Councel of Ruel thinks they are to be divided into two Classes.

First, Those that have fomented, and favoured Duke Charles's Party, contrary to their Oath of Allegiance to the King.

And, Secondly, Those that were drawn in Meré pas­sive.

'Tis thought the King might pardon the first Class, but as to the second, they ought to be all hang'd, unless the num­ber be too great; in which case, the King might pack off the most factious, and decimate the others, or send 'em to the Gallies.

As for the Jurisdiction of the Parliament of St. Michel, 'tis thought best to add it to the Soveraign Council of Nancy.

I say nothing of the Walls of the City, because every body knows the King has already condemned them.

In a word, the present Affairs require some Examples made more than ordinary; otherwise, we shall have Rebels so fre­quently in Lorrain, that there will never be an end, and the King shall have no sooner turn'd his back, but they'll rise again.

The Lord-Keeper and you, are earnestly desir'd to see, that a false Generosity of some great Lords, may not pre­vail with the King in behalf of any one, where his future Welfare requires so great rigour.

I am very well satisfy'd with Monsieur Bonthillier's Conduct, and that the Posts between the Cardinal de la Valette, and you, are open: As also, that you intend to lose no time after the taking St. Michel, to send towards Metz what Troops the King orders, to keep those parts free from factious Spirits, that may infect 'em.

I very much wonder at the Malice of Cramaik, a Person you have writ me, by the King's Order, twice about. I am overjoy'd his Majesty has intercepted his Designs, and esteem myself not a little indebted, that he would be pleas'd to ac­quaint me so soon of it.

Principiis Obsta. The Remedy of Provence is very proper upon this Occasion. One ill Man may corrupt a great many at Court.

LETTER CCXXII. To the KING.

I Praise God with all my heart for your Majesty's health, and with which I begin my Letter, because 'tis what I desire most. I can never be enough thankful for the Account you were pleas'd to send me, of the Person that had a mind to lengthen out your Majesty's Affairs; which I have An­swered, by Monsieur Chavigny, who, pursuant to your Orders, sent me the particulars. Having no more to add to the Me­moire, I have sent him to Communicate to your Majesty. I shall not lengthen this Letter, but to give you a Million of thanks, for bestowing an Abby, at my Request, upon Cavois. I have so many occasions, every day, to testifie my Acknow­ledgments to your Majesty, that not thinking words good e­nough, I do solemnly protest, I will make it the business of my Life, to confirm, by my Actions, how much I am, &c.

LETTER CCXXIII. To the Same.

BEing in so good humour, as I am inform'd by Monsieur Bouthillier, your Majesty is at present, I cannot think, any ill can happen to you. And, I hope, that St. Michael be­ing once taken, which I know can never-resist your Presence long, you will pursue your design to assist Messieurs, Angou­lesine, and de la Force; who thereby, may be able to gain [Page 251] such advantage over Duke Charles, as you can wish; and which, I am sure, I desire, with a great deal of earnestness, that I may see you once again, return glorious from the Field.

Monsieur Vitry, by two successive Courriers, assures us, the Spaniards will be able to effect nothing in Provence. All the Countrey is sheltred towards St. Margarite, and St. Ho­norate, by great Heats. There is no Harbour in these Islands. They cannot well land any where. Also, the said Sieur Vitry assures us, That he has so plentifully provided the Isles of Hieres with Men, and all sorts of Ammunition, that there is nothing to be feared.

There is nothing new from Italy. I have sent one of my Gentlemen to the Duke of Savoy, to press him to do what he ought, pursuant to the Treaty made with your Majesty.

The Duke of Parma's Valour and Conduct, is spoken of here with great Admiration.

LETTER CCXXIV. To the Same.

'TIS impossible for me to express the satisfaction I have, to hear, by Monsieur Bouthillier, of your Majesty's good Humour, and Health; who has also acquainted me, how differently your Troops live, now they are with you, than when they were from you. Every body knows, and one may speak it without flattery, that no Person can equal your Maje­sty, in communicating Orders.

I cannot comprehend my Transport for Cardinal de la Valette's Advantage over his Enemies. I am assur'd your Ma­jesty's Forces have perform'd wonders there; so that you would do well to harress 'em no more, but let 'em have a lit­tle rest after their so great Fatigue.

I pray God with all my heart, to give your Majesty as good success over the Lorrainers, that your Expedition may be as prosperous as you could wish, or I earnestly desire, &c.

LETTER CCXXV. To the Same.

I Am very glad that St. Michael is surrender'd, which is the beginning of the Glory and the Advantage, which I hope you will reap by this Expedition, provided that your Ma­jesty put in Execution that which Monsieur Bouthillier tells me you propose, you will gain much towards the Peace of Lorrain. That which you were pleased to grant in the Ca­pitulation, is very judicious, because it doth not hinder you from keeping all the Ring-leaders of the War in Prison, nor from sending the Soldiers to the Gallies, and chastizing some of the most factious Inhabitants, and keeping two hundred Wagons six Months, as your Majesty's Gentleman reports. I beseech you, in the Name of God, not to decline from your first Design, which is so necessary to your Reputation and Welfare, which, without this wholsom Rigour, will always be beginning, and never accomplished. I have sent a short Memorial to Renaudat; I believe he has not prevented me, being well acquainted with your Majesty's Humour. I have a lively Representation of your Impatience to perform some eminent Attempt, to the Prejudice of Duke Charles. I heartily desire of God that it may succeed, that your Majesty may return with as much Glory and Contentment, as is de­sired by, &c.

LETTER CCXXVI. To the Same.

I Can never sufficiently condole your Majesty's Concern for the Inconstancy of the French. If the Lease of my [Page 253] Life would afford you any Comfort, I would gladly lay it down. Your Predecessors have laboured under the same Difficulties, and your Successors will do the same: Things will take their Course.

I send back to your Majesty that which we thought most seasible; upon the Advice which your Majesty was pleased to send us, wherein, as you did me the Honour to send to me, we have always follow'd that which my Cousin Melleraye gave you. I believe it is necessary that you send it, as it is signed by your Majesty, if you think it convenient to change nothing.

I conjure your Majesty, by the Name of God, not to be dejected; and be assured, that when you return hither, you will be looked upon by Paris, and the whole World, as you were in times past, as the best Master that ever was. We have already consider'd what we must say and write, both in the Kingdom, and to Embassadors, upon your Maje­sty's Return; that your Majesty being gone to appease the Commotions of Lorrain, and to raise a powerful Army, and after that to reinforce the Cardinal de la Valette, and d' Angou­lesme, and de la Force, thought it convenient in this Juncture to return to the Center of his Affairs, to send necessary Or­ders to all other Places, and to raise new Forces against Spring: Therefore pray let not your Majesty be in pain; and be assured, that I will omit nothing for the future, as in times past, which may depend upon me for your Service and Satisfaction, of which I will always have more Care than of my own Life, as being, &c.

LETTER CCXXVII. To Monsieur d'Hemery.

THE Loss of Revel ought to make Madam sensible, that she herself is lost, if she do not immediately make use of some extraordinary means to save herself. It is in­deed necessary to have Cahours, but that doth not heal the Di­stemper with which we are troubled, since it is but a Mag­py's Nest on the top of a Tree, and requires Time and Pains, [Page 254] and vast Charges, to fortifie the bottom. Madam is in jest to think of surrendring this Place upon the Terms of Revel; his Majesty will in no wise hear it spoke of; therefore it must be surrendred at Discretion. I told the Embassadour, who will write conformably, that it is altogether necessary that Cahours be kept by the King's Troops. Here is a Discourse, that to find a speedy Remedy for these Evils, we must some way or other take Coni: it is easie to mention what we ought to de­sire for the re-establishment of Affairs: For this purpose, we ought to retake Coni and Revel, Ast, Villeneuve, d'Ast, or Ver­rue; but I fear much it will be difficult. In the mean time, we must strive to attain this End, and to disarm Turin. If you are at a distance from Madam, send de la Cour thither, with Instructions necessary to the Safety of Italy.

That Coni may be reduc'd with ease: This is all, Care must be taken that Longueville sit down before it, before the Enemy suspects any thing of it.

To this end Cardinal de la Valette must oppose them in some advantageous place, while Longueville shall make a Retreat to go to Coni. We rely on their Prudence. Count Philippes hath sent great Complaint of you to the Embassadour of Savoy; but, as you may easily imagine, we laughed at it; and I told the Embassadour what was convenient upon that Account. I am, &c.

LETTER CCXXVIII. To Monsieur d'Hemery.

I Am much amazed to understand, by Degraves, that the Inhabitants of the three Towns, which Madam has put in the King's Hands, are not disarm'd. If you have a mind to lose them, you must delay, as you do now, every thing that is necessary for their Security. If the Inhabitants are not al­ready disarmed, fail not to do it immediately upon the Re­ceipt of this, [...]ithout losing one Moment, it being the only Means to preserve the said Places for Madam. I think you ought to have done it before, and, to have omitted it, is pure Madness. I expect, upon this occasion, which is of very great [Page 255] Consequence, the Effects of your Care and Diligence; and in the mean time assure you, that I am, &c.

LETTER CCXXIX. To Monsieur de la Cour.

I Cannot be sufficiently amazed at the Continuation of Ma­dam's Blindness, because it is to that degree, that it ex­poses her to a certain Ruin. I know not what can hinder her from accomplishing the Establishment which she pro­mised to make in Montmillian and Savoy, because she cannot be secure without it. Tell her from me, that which I now write, and let her know, that if we can find no Security in what she promises for herself, we will have no further Ne­gotiation with her.

I am glad that Don Felix and the Marquess of St. Morice promote the Execution of the things promised upon that ac­count, they testifie thereby the Zeal they have for Madam's Security and Reputation.

Having seen the Complaints, which you say the Marquess of St. Germain makes, because he received no Reward from the King, while he was at Grenoble, nor the others who were with Madam. I cannot sufficiently wonder why he himself doth not acknowledge, that it was done on purpose, for fear of making him suspected, and to give no opportunity, to those who would hinder this Establishment, to be able to do it. If he thinks that the King's Liberality is abridged, he is mista­ken. Let him take care to deserve, and we will procure him a Reward. You will oblige me, if by a cleanly Conveyance, you will let those who are concern'd, know the Contents of this Letter.

I recommend to your Care the Fort of Perouza, and the Sol­diers Quarters, and to impart to us what things are necessary, so opportunely, that we may provide them in due time. In the mean time be assured, that I continue my Friendship, and am, &c.

LETTER CCXXX. To Monsieur de la Cour.

THE Advice that we have had, that the Cardinal of Savoy and Prince Thomas have Practices and Intelli­gence in Madam's Court, by which they are contriving great Designs, obliging me to inform her Highness, that she may apply some necessary Remedies. I also think it convenient to impart it to you, that being inform'd thereof, you may act more conveniently for her Good, and the King's Ser­vice.

To that end, I send you a Memorial, which will let you know his Majesty's Intentions; and that which he judges convenient for Madam to do at this Juncture, to prevent the Mischiefs that her Enemies are preparing for her. The Con­fidence she has in you, the Zeal you have for the King's Ser­vice, your Prudence and Address, perswade me, that her Highness will have great Regard for what you will say upon this occasion, and that his Majesty will be very well satisfy'd with your Negotiation. I desire it, both for his particular Interest, and your own, which shall be ever recommended by, &c.

LETTER CCXXXI. To Monsieur de la Cour.

AFter I had received your last Letters, concerning the impertinent Proposals which were made to Madam by Monety and Father Michel-Ange d'Aglie, I desired that Mon­din should go to her immediately, to let her know what I think convenient to preserve her from absolute Ruine. You [Page 257] will see the particulars I have wrote to her Highness, by the Copy of the Letter I send to you, according to which, you may act vigorously.

The King has this confidence in you, that when there hap­pens some unforeseen occasions, which may destroy Madam, you have Foresight, Power, and Courage enough to op­pose them, and to prevent her from comming irreparable Faults.

I do not know how Men are so impudent, as to dare to advise Madam to sign something with her Enemies, before she first consults the King, on whom alone depends all her Protection; and how Madam is not sensible, that such Men, being desirous of her ruine, that she ought, by timely Reme­dies, to prevent their mischievous Practices.

You must break up all those fine Negotiations; and do it so cunningly, that Madam have the advantage, which her Enemies pretend to receive to her prejudice.

The true means to do it, is, To disperse a Declaration to inform the World, That her Highness desires a good and sincere Agreement; but, that as she has no other design, than to at­tain to so good an end, so she will hearken to no Proposal, which being void of due respect to the Dignity of her Son, and of necessary Precautions for the safety of his Person, which being dearer to her than her own Life, can produce no other effect, than her destruction, and the ruine of her States, and good Subjects, to whose Preservation she will always have a particular regard.

You must in this Declaration make use of the most advan­tageous Circumstances of times past, to confirm the pernicious Designs of Prince Thomas. That being done, it is convenient to remove all those fine Negotiations, by whose malice or simplicity, Madam, in the end, may be undone. Pray be diligent in this Affair, and be assur'd, that no body has a great­er kindness for you, than, &c.

P. S. Sir, I add this one word more, That Satisfaction is given to the Marquess of St. Morice. You must take care that this may be brought over to Madam's interest: Ʋpon which account, the King will never complain of his Benefits. You have so much prudence and address, that I do not at all doubt, but you will make this Affair succeed according to his Majesty's de­sire. I am, &c.

LETTER CCXXXII. To the Dutchess of Savoy.

THo' I wrote to you eight or ten days ago, about the bad circumstances, in which, I think, your Affairs are in, the late Express which I have just now received from your Highness, and your Commands, to give you my advice about the new Proposals which were made by Moneti, and Father Michael-Ange de Aglie, give me an opportunity to re-assume my Pen: I assure you, that the King desires nothing more, than to see you well re-establish'd in your States, and to have a good understanding with your Brothers-in-law. And, that his Majesty will be always ready to restore the Places which he possesses in Piedmont, into your Highness's hands, as soon as the Spaniards will, in good earnest, do the same with those which they hold, so that you may be the real Mistress of them. But as the safety of your Person, and that of your Son, the Duke of Savoy, are the principal things which you ought to consider, his Majesty will never consent, that they fall into the hands of persons, whose whole interest consists in their destruction: And your Highness is too well advised, not to see, that all Proposals which are made you, without this Precaution, let them be never so specious, are nothing but a Snare to destroy you.

I am not amaz'd, that Prince Thomas proposes, That you go into Piedmont, and carry your Son along with you: But I cannot think that there is any body nigh you, who can advise you to it, without adding at the same time, that before you think of it, you ought to be Mistress of the Citadel, as well as of the Town of Turin.

Upon this Condition, I think, you may pass the Mountains, without taking your Son along with you; for whose safety, you cannot take too much care, to secure him from those difficulties which may happen to him.

You know, Madam, better than we, the Reports upon the subject of the death of the Commander of Sales, because we have them only from your Parts. They ought, as I think, [Page 259] make you fear the destruction of your Son, by the same way, so much the more, as there is a difference betwixt the possessi­on of a soveraign-State, and that of a simple Government. You must be insensible, if you do not fear, that those, who were not afraid to touch your Honour, by several Falshoods, and Calumnies, may also aim at your Life, which is not so dear to you as your Reputation.

In a word, Madam, since God has made you Mother of a Prince, who is the lawful Successour of the States of his Fa­ther, the Duke of Savoy, you are oblig'd to do your utmost, to preserve his Person, and his States. You will not want For­ces, because the King offers you his; and he commanded me to write to you particularly, That, provided you will do what you can, he will spare nothing that may tend to your preservation, and re establishment, in that which you have lost. But because it is certain, that his Forces will be of no use to you, if your mind and prudence do not concur with his pow­er, to promote your safety. It is your part to take care, that you be not surpriz'd by bad Counsels; and to fortifie your self against the weakness of your Sex, which is sometime sub­ject, in its Conduct, not to add firm Resolutions, which are ne­cessary in the managery of great Affairs.

The Observations which you have sent hither about the Proposals which are made you, are so judicious to let you see the Cheat they would put upon you, that I praise God, that he has inspired you with such knowledge; and beseech him, that he would confirm you in that desire, which you now have, to preserve yourself from their malice.

I think it is very convenient, that you let those Princes, that cause such ridiculous Proposals to be made, and your States know, that as you will be always ready to come to a good Agreement, by which your Son may remain such an ab­solute Master of his States, that he may not apprehend, either himself, or them, to be in any danger; and that you will not hearken to Negotiations, which have no other aim, but to gain time to your prejudice, and to the ruine of the Peo­ple which God has committed to your charge; which they desire to amuse by such hopes.

When you have made this Declaration, I believe it requi­site for your service, to be deaf to all Proposals that may be made, if by the first Article, the Duke of Savoy, and your Highness, are not re-establish'd in the authority that belongs to them, and if it be not permitted you to provide for both your safeties, by what ways you think it most expedient.

These two Articles being pre-supposed, I repeat it yet once more to your Highness, that the King is always of opinion, That you treat your Brothers-in-law with all advantages imaginable, which they may reasonably desire, and which, are consistent with your safety to grant. In the extent of those terms, matters may be so adjusted, that those Gentle­men may be fully satisfied; without that, your ruine is inevi­table. This is, Madam, what I thought good to say, upon the present occasion. Finally, I advise you, to oblige all those who are about you, to declare publickly against those, who so publickly seek your ruine, that a Man must be either blind or malicious, not to confess it.

I am perswaded, that there is none who will not venture his life and blood, to defend so good a Cause, and will do it generously, provided, he be assured, that you take those Reso­lutions which are necessary for your safety, which I in parti­cular, do passionately desire, as being, &c.

LETTER CCXXXIII. To the Dutchess of Savoy.

I Have received those Letters, which it pleased your High­ness to honour me with, which imparted both the joy you testifie for the happy Success of Cazal, and the Accomo­dations of matters with your Brothers-in-law: Whereupon, I say, that tho' I have explain'd my self sufficiently to your Ambassadour, who, I am certain, has not omitted to send to you what I told him; yet I cannot forbear to add, That Prince Thomas's Conduct towards your Highness, both by the rigour which he used toward those, which he suspected to be well affected to your Service, and by what he contributed to­ward the loss of Cazal, and by the Artifices, which he always used in the Negotiation, which he manages with your High­ness, ought to make you break off entirely, and prevent the Advantages, which he hopes will accrue thereby, and to make use of those, which the Victory of Cazal gives you.

I cannot conceive how they who have the honour to be nigh your Highness, if they are well affected to your Service, can [Page 261] suggest any other counsel, seeing if you listen to such a Negoti­ation, you afford a notable opportunity to your Enemies to prejudice your Affairs.

If they will perswade you, that by this Accommodation, you secure the Tuition of your Son, and that you will receive some advantage by the change, which the Princes agree to make, of the Governors of the Places which they hold: I am amaz'd that common sence doth not dictate, that in dividing your Authority with your Brothers-in-law, it will by so much the more be diminish'd, as the fear which the Subjects, and Magistrates shall have of them, will induce them rather to be on their side than yours.

As to what they declare to you, that this Agreement may put an end to the Civil War in Piedmont; one must be void of judgment, not to foresee that your Highness being allied to France, and the Princess to Spain, the cause of the Division, and consequently, the War still remains.

Further, it would be very prejudicial to the King's, and your Highness's Service, if His Majesty should attack Turin, while you are agreed with your Brothers-in-law: Because, in this case, every one would say, That it was not your Son's interest which put you upon this design, but his Majesty's, to possess himself of this place. And since he writes particularly to his Ambassadour upon this subject, to let you know his mind, I shall not say any thing about it in this Letter. But yet I will add, before I conclude, That those who advise you to continue the Negotiation with those Princes, and to conclude it with­out an Union at the same time with France for your Interest, testify too publickly, that the fear of them, prevails more than the affection which they owe to your Highness; upon which account give me leave to add, That it would, Madam, have been very serviceable to you, that after so much contempt, which Prince Thomas has shewn of your Highness, if you had neither admitted him into your Presence, nor given Audience to his Envoy: and the rather, because he has raised some dif­ficulties about some matters relating to your Son's, and your Interest; for if you had done thus, you had oblig'd him to have recourse to more humble measures, to regain your Highness's Friendship, seeing that the happy success of his Majesty's Arms at Cazel, may, in time, reduce him to great extremities.

To conclude, I beseech your Highness, to consider that all your Welfare, next to God, depends upon the King's Pro­tection, and to follow the advice, he gives you, who have no [Page 262] other end, but to defend you from your Enemies, and to re­establish your Son and yourself in such a Condition as he de­sires; which, as to my particular, I wish with all the Zeal imaginable, both for the Glory of his Majesty, and your Son's and Highness's Welfare, &c.

P. S. The Affair of Querasque let's you see, that beside the Pre­mises, Prince Thomas has no other Design, but to reduce your States, by amusing you with fine Words.

LETTER CCXXXV. To the Dutchess of Savoy.

I Cannot tell who it is that advises you, at present, to go in­to Piedmont, while your Affairs are in those circumstances, since such a Journey may be so far from making them better, that it may be dangerous to your Person. When Turin is taken, you may go into Piedmont with reputation; and, deporting yourself with discretion, which you generally do, your Pre­sence will be useful to your Son's and your own interest. If something must be denied Prince Thomas it is better that your Ministers should do it, than your Highness: And it is more convenient that you be at some distance from Turin, than nigh it, till it is taken.

As to the Composition of Turin, which you are pleased to mention, the King will give the Count de Harcourt Orders what he shall do, both for your Advantage and his Service.

As his Majesty is always disposed to receive Prince Thomas, when he has a mind to unite himself to France, it is conve­nient to use, to your advantage, the present opportunity, which God is pleased to give you, and so to behave yourself, as not not to lose the Fruit by too much precipitation.

The Letters which were taken in the Baggage of the Mar­quess de Leganez, give you such a manifest proof of the Infi­delity with which Prince Thomas seemed to treat with your Highness, that you must either be blind, or your own Enemy, if you do not believe, that all his Treaties with you will be of the same nature, unless he come over for the King, and wholly deceive the Spaniards.

The best and the only thing that you can do, for the advance­ment of your Affairs, is to send all the Troops you can to the Count Harcourt, without losing a moment, and use all dili­gence to promote that business. He, on his part, labours with so much Care and Expence, that he deserves to be seconded by your Highness in such an important Juncture. As for me, Madam, nothing shall be wanting, on my part, to testifie, that I am, &c.

I am glad that your Highness has given Orders for the Security of Montmeillian, in expelling Monod; he was a very dan­gerous Man in a place of that consequence.

LETTER CCXXXVI. To Monsieur de la Cour.

I Am very glad to learn, by your Express, the Passages of the Place where you are, and Madam's present Inclination to unite herself intirely to the King's Interest, and to follow the Advice which his Majesty and his Servants shall give her for her Welfare: But she has hitherto been so insensible, that I fear it is only a seeming Change in her Mind, and that she has no mind to be delivered out of the Precipice, which through her own Neglect she is fallen into, instead of doing her utmost to assist Count Harcourt in the Execution of a De­sign, in which she is principally concern'd, and to reinforce him with fresh Troops, she not only took away those which were maintained at the King's Expence, and which she was promised should be drawn off assoon as they had received the King's Money. This Negligence affects me so sensibly, that I confess I am out of Patience, and I cannot tell what Opini­on to have of Madam's Intentions after such an extravagant Trick. I conjure you to represent to her the Prejudice she does to the general Affairs, and to her own in particular, by that ill Conduct, which is enough, either to ruine the Enter­prize of Turin, or at least, to give this Advantage to the Ene­my, to take another Place without much Resistance, while [Page 264] the King's Army shall regain, with much Difficulty, that which others have lost, because they would not keep it.

Monsieur de Chavigny writes so fully, in Cyphers upon the Subject of your Express, that nothing remains, but to con­jure you to solicit Madam to do that, which Reason, and the Necessity of her Affairs together, ought to have made her have already done, that if she persevere to neglect her own Advantage, the King will take his, as Reason and the Publick Good shall require. In the mean time, be assured that I am, &c.

LETTER CCXXXCVII. To the Prince of Orange.

MOnsieur d'Estrade will acquaint you what past with us in the business of Monsieur Bouillon, in which your Highness's Intervention could not make for his Assistance. He will tell you also, how I acknowledge those advantageous Sentiments you had relating to my Sickness, and of the Troubles some turbulent Spirits would have given to his Ma­jesty's Affairs. I want Words to express my Gratitude, for the Favour you have done me on those Occasions; but I de­sire you to believe, that I will omit none, to shew you, by the Effects, that I really am, &c.

LETTER CCXXXVIII. To James, King of England. Concerning the Marriage of the P. of Wales.

THis is not the first time that I am sensible, that great Kings often conceive things according to their great [Page 265] Qualities, and not as they are in themselves; that they mag­nifie mean things by the Esteem they have of them, and those whom they honour by their Benevolence cannot be in­considerable. The Letter with which your Majesty was plea­sed to honour me, confirms me in this Truth; because it lets me see, that I have so much Merit in your Esteem, as in effect I have Admiration of those great and rare Qualities which are in you: They are, Sir, so shining, that if by the know­ledge of them I have no Advantage above the rest of the World, who may be ignorant of them; yet at least I am as­sured, that few admire them so much, and none can do it more than I. Respect has always induced me, in the Service of the King my Master, to answer your Majesty's Expectation in accomplishing the happy Alliance, projected betwixt the two Crowns. It was no difficult thing; for I satisfy'd my Desire, and did my Duty at the same time: Because that as on one side, the King never thought but of proper Conditi­ons, to give you an opportunity to oblige the Hearts of your Catholick Subjects with new Chains, which you have already gain'd; your Majesty on your part, hath of your own accord granted that, which being desired for their Good, was also principally for your Advantage. If they receive much Fa­vour from your Majesty, you will thereby gain a Glory, the more inestimable, because it will be eternal.

It is a thing, Sir, not to be at all doubted of; because, that as the first Water of a running Stream is sufficient to let us know, that its Channel is not stopt, so it is enough to know, that your Majesty, whose Bounty is inexhaustible, hath once engaged to be gracious to your Subjects, to be assured that they will receive continual Effects of your Benevolence; and consequently, your Majesty will more closely unite those Hearts which are already yours.

Heaven, without whose Concurrence, nothing can attain to Perfection, hearing the Prayers of so many Creatures who depend upon your Majesty, will unite those two Monarchies with an indissolvable Knot; that as their joint Forces have for­merly made the Levant tremble, so they will now strike Terrour in all their Enemies, and dissipate all the Efforts of those who desire to hinder that Happiness that they may effect in Chri­stendom. I beg it of God with all my Heart; and that he would bestow upon your Majesty all those Blessings, which such singular Qualities, which concur in your Person, de­serve. I am eternally, &c.

LETTER CCXXXIX. To the Prince of Wales.

THE Letter which your Highness was pleased to honour me with, is a Favour which transcends all the Bounds of my Gratitude; and, for want of Words, be pleased to let me preserve in my Soul a lively Sentiment of this Obliga­tion. In the mean time, that I may not be ingrateful, I every where proclaim those Great and Royal Qualities, which shew, that the Excellency of your Wit is equal to your illu­strious Birth. With this Sence, my Lord, I shall in some sort do my Duty, but not according to my Desire, which in matters relating to you can have no Bounds. If God had given me all those Qualifications which your Highness believes are in me, I should esteem myself very happy to employ them in your Service, to acquire your good Grace, which I will merit by the Obedience I will pay to your Commands. I am, &c.

LETTER CCXL. To the Queen of England.

BEing inform'd by Mr. Montague, of the great Desire your Majesty has of a strict Union of those two Crowns, I have so much the more endeavoured to add weight to those Proposals which he has made, that he may let you particu­larly know what was done about them, and with what Since­rity the King was pleased to receive them, and gave them a favourable Answer, according to your Desire. As for me, beside the Zeal which I have for your Majesty's Service, the particular Esteem which I have for your Person, and the no­ble [Page 267] Qualities of the King your Husband, and the Respect I have for them, make me that I never omit any thing which depends on me for your Satisfaction, which I am assur'd Mr. Montague will not fail to let you know: And as it is a matter of importance, that the King your Hu­sband be pleased to send hither an agreeable Embassa­dour, being certain that many things are frequently spoiled or advanced, according as the Ministers, who manage them, are ill or well received by the Princes with whom they are concern'd. I presume to beseech your Majesty to weigh those Considerations, because they have no other De­sign, but to promote your Service; which shall always be so particularly considered by me, that you shall be sensible with what Sincerity I am, &c.

LETTER CCXLI. To the Queen of England.

IT is the greatest Happiness that I could enjoy, to see by the Letter which your Majesty was pleased to honour me with, that you are satisfy'd with my Actions. I beseech you to believe, that they will never have any other Aim but your Service, and that which I know is agreeable to you, being sensible how I am obliged to you by several Respects and Considerations. In the mean time give me leave, if you please, to tell you, that the Negotiation of Mr. Montague is not pub­lished; But yet it was told to the Embassadour, as is usual in all States. As to what remains, your Majesty may believe, that that which is done, was not to let any other, but your Majesty, accomplish what you had so well begun, the Sieur Fontenay having no other Order, but to satisfie your Desires both in this, and all things else. This Affair would never Prosper, if, as it was begun by you, it should not be deter­mined by your Authority. As for my particular, Madam, I beseech your Majesty to do me the Honour to believe, that I will always have a great Passion for your Honour and Ser­vice, which you shall perceive upon all occasions, and all o­ther Proofs you desire, of him, who is entirely, &c.

LETTER CCXLII. To the Same.

I Deferred, for some time, to answer that Letter, which your Majesty was pleased to write to me, esteeming it more proper to let you know, by my silence, the respect I have, and will have for your Majesty all the days of my life, than to make Excuses, tho' they be very just, to your Resentments. I call them just, Madam, because I never gave room for a thought, or did any thing upon any occasion, no not in that in which your Majesty shews you are offended. I believe time will plainly demonstrate this truth to you, which I will always confirm by the most sincere effects, in all occasions which shall offer, to give you Proofs of my most humble Service. I desired Monsieur Perron to assure your Majesty of it from me, beseeching you to honour me with this belief, that I will yield to no body in the resolution to be eternally, &c.

LETTER CCXLIII. To Monsieur Poigny, Embassadour in England.

IF I had known the refusal that the Queen of Great Britain made to receive my Letter, which I had the honour to write to her by Perron, I had not presumed to have taken the same boldness as to send by you, without knowing that she was better affected to me than she is.

You will oblige me by letting her Majesty know, That I shall always so respect her Person and Quality, that she shall [Page 269] be so far from complaining of my Conduct, that she shall have cause to commend it: Upon this Consideration, I con­jure you never to mention my Name, as long as it is dis­agreeable to her; but assure her Majesty, that her Displeasure shall never hinder me from having that Zeal which I always had for her Service, and I shall esteem it a great happiness and honour to have opportunity to give her fresh Proofs of it. And, as for your particular, be assured, that I will omit none to shew you, that I am, &c.

LETTER CCXLIV. To the Queen of England.

I Think the honour of your Favour which you are pleased to assure me of, so great an happiness, that I want suffi­cient words to express my joy and sence of it. If your Ma­jesty please to remember what was done in your most tender Youth, to qualifie you for a Crown worthy of you, you will confess, I am assured, that I have forgot nothing that I ought on that Subject, to contribute to your satisfaction. I know very well, Madam, that as the generosity of Persons of your Quality doth not forget the Services that are done them, it is a kind of ineivility in those who did them, to refresh their Memory; but that which I now mention, is so agreeable to your Majesty, that you will not take it ill if I have some sa­tisfaction in that which you every day receive in the place where you are. I beseech you to believe, that I have always the same Passion for your Service that I had then; and that I can never lose it, nor will ever cease to beg of God as many Blessings for your Majesty, as you yourself can wish: All my Actions shall tend to shew you, that I am and ever will be, &c.

LETTER CCXLV. To the Queen of England.

MR. Montague having inform'd me, That your Majesty would not take it ill to receive some new Assurances of my most humble Service, I thought I should commit a great crime, if I failed to desire you to believe, that I never had any other design but to honour and serve you; and that it is impossble for me to do otherwise in times to come. Pray do me the favour to believe this Truth, because all my Actions shall confirm it far better than my Words, and that I am, and always will be, &c.

LETTER CCXLVI. To Mareschal Crequi, upon the Com­protection.

AS the King cannot be sufficiently amazed at the weak­ness, with which the Pope prohibits Cardinal Anthony from the exercise of the Comprotection, and at the want of consideration, with which Cardinal Barberini gives him this Advice: So he cannot sufficiently esteem the Sincerity and the Courage of Cardinal Anthony.

His Majesty is as well satisfied with the last, as he is dis­pleased with the two former.

Let the Pope do what he will, he can never compromise, that Cardinal Anthony should not be Comprotector of France, since he has deprived Cardinal Bentivoglio of this Charge for that purpose.

Cardinal Anthony accepted of it by the consent of his Holi­ness, without which, neither the King nor he had ever thought of that Affair; Cardinal Barberini also shew'd no dislike of it to his Brother.

The Pope may, by his Authority and Violence, hinder Cardinal Anthony, his Nephew, from the Exercise of this Charge; but as he cannot do it with Reason, he will never do it with the King's Consent, who being sensible, that the Ene­mies of St. Peter's Chair, the Pope and his Family are the Au­thors of so bad Counsel, will be pleased very much to oppose it, because of the Respect which he owes to the Church, and the Affection to his Holiness's Family; which is such, that his Majesty gives Orders to the said Embassadours to hinder any Preconisations to be made in the Consistory of the French Be­nefices, till it please his Holiness to permit Cardinal Anthony to make them in executing his Office.

The Embassadours shall give this Answer to the Pope and to Cardinal Barberini, with all Compliments imaginable; but with as much Resolution not to depart with the Comprote­ction of Cardinal Anthony.

They shall also tell Cardinal Barberini, That his Majesty would find it very strange, if he should have any Umbrage of the Comprotection of France, in the Person of Cardinal An­thony; because he only desired he should Exercise that Of­fice, to let the World know the particular Affection he has to the Pope's Family, and to have more Ways to keep the two Brothers united, when their Interests shall more require it.

They shall also particularly make known to Cardinal Anthony, the Satisfaction the King has in him, and shall give him Assu­rance of his Protection and Assistance in all things.

They shall communicate to Cardinal Bentivoglio, the Reso­lution the King takes to put an end to the Preconisation of the Consistorial Benefices, till the Pope, putting an end to the Prohibition which he has given Cardinal Anthony, repair the Injury, which, by that means, they would do France: And shall let him know, That it is not that his Majesty dislikes that he should continue to Execute the Office of Comprote­ctor, but only that he might not give this Advantage to the Spaniards, to think that France yields to their Desires.

In the mean time, if his Holiness, coming to himself, will give his Majesty that Satisfaction which Justice and Reason require, permitting Cardinal Anthony to Exercise the Fun­ctions of the Office of Comprotector, for whom it doth not seem that the Pope has lost his Cause, and the King has gained [Page 272] his; yet his Majesty thinks it good, that the Embassadours consent to this following Expedient, which is, That it be a Month before Cardinal Anthony execute the Functions of his Office in the Consistory, upon condition, that, from that mo­ment, his Holiness pass his Word to the said Embassadours, That, from that time, he shall agree, That he Execute his Office, without having a new Licence from his Holiness.

This Overture has not been made to Cardinal Bichi, that the Embassadours may be able to manage it so much the better, because they only are acquainted with it.

If the Pope is not satisfied things shall be left in the fore­mentioned condition, without any Preconisation of the French Affairs in the Consistory, yet Mareschal Crequi shall return by the way of Venice, giving his Holiness a Testimony, That the Respect his Majesty has for the Church is such, That, notwithstanding former Passages, the King has not failed to give him order to Negotiate the Pope's Affairs at Venice, as tho' his Majesty had not been disobliged. In taking leave of his Holiness, the said Mareschal, as well on the King's as his own part, shall make him all the Compliments imaginable; assuring him withal, That his Majesty will never change his Resolution concerning the Comprotection, being by no means able to endure, that any other, beside Cardinal Anthony, exer­cise that Office.

LETTER CCXLVII. To the POPE.

AMong other Displeasures with which the Piety of the King is afflicted, as he beholds the Miseries the Church suffers, by the Division and Discord of Christian Princes, his Majesty has been sensibly dissatisfied with the evil Proceedings of some of the Spanish Ministers toward your Holiness, and with the little Respect which was paid you by one of those who are the most obliged to honour you. I cannot enough admire, that he has so far forgot himself, as to have used no­thing but Complaints, and some less decent Terms, instead of Praises and most humble Thanks, which are due to the [Page 273] singular Goodness and Wisdom of your Government. Your Holiness has always appeared so manifestly to desire the Peace of Christendom, and to appease the Differences which might trouble it, that there is no body, if he be not prejudiced with Passion, but must acknowledge, that you have omitted nothing, that you thought convenient, to promote so good a Design. If, amongst all those who are compell'd to behold this Truth, some do profess the contrary, any Man may plainly see, that it is Interest alone which makes them shut their Eyes at Ju­stice, and open their Mouths to speak against the Sentiments of their own Conscience. It seems, that God has permitted things of this nature, which are lately pass'd, that your Holi­ness may receive new Testimonies of the Zeal of the most pious and the greatest-Prince of Christendom, who will al­ways think it a singular Glory to promote your Interest, and to partake of the Cares and the good Resolutions your Holi­liness has always had for the Advancement of Religion, and the Establishment of the Publick Tranquility; to which, he thinks, it will not a little contribute, to let the World know, the Deference which is due to the Holy Chair, and to the Per­son of a Pope, of such rare and singular Vertues as your Ho­liness. As for me, most holy Father, I should think my self altogether unworthy of the Honour I have in the Church, and the Favours I receive from so vertuous a Prince, as he is, to whose Service I am devoted with all manner of respects, if I did not earnestly desire that Peace which your Holiness and his Majesty so passionately wish for Christendom, which has hitherto been disturbed by those who desire to appear contrary to one another. I hope, that God will make this Truth more manifest to the World, and that your Holiness will have reason to confess, that, as the King gladly makes use of all his Power to the Glory of God, the Good of the Church, and the Publick Tranquility, he will lose no oppor­tunity to give you Proofs of his sincere Affection for the in­terest of your Family: which, according to his Intentions, and your Holiness's Merits, I will always endeavour to pro­mote, as it is my Duty, who am, &c.

LETTER CCXLVIII. To the Same.

THo' the Choice which it has pleased your Holiness to make of the Person of Monsieur Mazarin, to employ him in the Negotiation of the Affairs of Italy, makes every one conceive how capable you judged him for it: I think myself obliged to give this Testimony of him, That he has behaved himself so well, that beside the Love of all the Prin­ces with whom he has treated, which he has gained; the King also was very much satisfy'd with him: He will assure your Beatitude, of the sincere Affections his Majesty has for you, and to what degree he honours you, not only by reason of your Dignity, but also because of the great Merits of your Person. As to my particular, I most humbly beseech you to believe, that I perceive myself so inseparably united to this Duty, that all my Actions shall be so many Proofs of this Truth, and of the Zeal and inviolable Constancy, with which I am, and ever will be, &c.

LETTER CCXLIX. To the Same.

I Have this great while struggled in my self, if I ought to re­present to your Holiness the great Mischiefs which France suffers by reason of the Delays, which for some time have been made use of in the Court of Rome, in the Expedition of the Bulls of the Bishops, nominated to your Holiness by his Majesty; but at last, the Salvation of Souls, the Reputation of your Holiness, and the Fear of my being accountable to God, if I do not inform you what is said upon this Subject, [Page 275] have prevailed with me to take Pen in hand, to beseech you to prevent this great Evil.

I am sure your Holiness will judge, that it is reasonable, that you concur with the great Care that the King takes, to make choice of the best Subjects of his Kingdom to be pro­moted to Bishopricks; and that by this means, those who are designed for that Office, may make use of the Talents that God has given them, to the Salvation of Souls; he would not see by the Vineyard's side many unprofitable Labourers, because they are not introduced by him who ought to set them at work; the great Fruit that they reap, who have been lately promoted to such Offices, gives occasion to Men to complain of the Miseries of the Church, being by so much the greater, because little Obstacles stop the Current of those great Favours, which it expects from your Hands.

As the Church cannot be divided from the Authority of your Holiness, so France would not be separated from your Goodness, which she is sensible is so great towards her, that she will always think herself as assured of that for which she is purely dependent, as of that which she may expect from Justice. It has always been an ancient Custom of France, to take Informations of the Life and Manners of Men before the Bishops. The King might pretend, that they ought to re­main in those Terms. But if the Desire that he has to shew, that he will pay to the Holy Chair as much Deference as he can, without diminishing the Rights and Dignities of the Crown, induce him not to hinder, that those nominated to Bishopricks, who shall have more Conveniency to take In­formations before the Nuncio's of your Holiness, may make use of this Liberty, provided that those, who, according to the ancient Custom of the Realm, shall be invested before French Bishops, may obtain their Bulls as readily, as tho' they they had applied themselves to your Nuncio's. Your Holiness shall have that, which your Predecessors never ob­tained of those who have hitherto possessed the Crown, al­though they have wink'd at it upon certain occasions; as the singular Virtues which were remarkable in your Person, while you were in this Kingdom, cannot be blotted out of our Memory. I am also certain, that your Holiness doth so well remember what you saw practic'd there, that you need but have recourse to your Zeal, to promote the Welfare of France; the Knowledge that you have of what has been always obser­ved there, is sufficient to make you acknowledge the Justice of her Desires. If you consider also, that Informations made [Page 276] before French Bishops, cannot be refused, without doing a no­table Prejudice to the Court of Rome, who could not receive them without judging of their Probity, which was so well known, that there was no room to doubt of the Validity of what pass'd before them. I am sure, that Mens Souls will speedily receive of you that Assistance which they hope for; and that your Holiness, by opening the Mouths of those who expect that Liberty to instruct the People, which is altogether necessary, shall stop theirs, who cannot but complain of the Difficulties which have hindred them from receiving the Ef­fects of your Power and Goodness. This is that which I beg of you in all Humility, desiring of God that he would add many Years to your Life, many Blessings to your House, and as much Happiness to your Person, as is desired by, &c.

P. S. As I take the boldness to write to your Holiness upon a Subject which concerns the Salvatiou of Souls, of which you have a particular Care, I am assured, that you will not take it ill, that I have taken the liberty of writing to Cardinal Barberini upon another Subject, which is of very great Importance to the Church, to the Peace of Chri­stendom, and to the Grandeur and Safety of your Fa­mily.

LETTER CCL. To Cardinal Anthony, upon his send­ing him a Diamond Cross, and a Di­amond Box, with the King's Pi­cture in it.

THE King being informed, that those who have always envied his Happiness, and who have no true Love for your Family; forgetting nothing that may give you Trou­ble, and make you bear the Cross upon his Account, com­manded me to send you one as a Present from him, to let all [Page 277] the World know, that he cannot endure, that for his sake you bear any other than what comes from him, whose Weight will not be troublesom; and because it is not only upon this occasion, but upon all others which may happen, that his Majesty pretends to ease you of all the Pains and Sorrows with which you are afflicted. He desired you also to receive this Picture from his own Hand, believing that your Eminence, being fortified by his Shadow alone, will be able to resist all the Enemies of your Family, against whom he will very glad­ly use all his Power upon all occasions which may present for your Advantage. I obey this Command with so much the more Satisfaction, because I am, and always will be, &c.

LETTER CCLI. To Cardinal Barbarini.

THE Joy that I have for the good Understanding be­twixt his Holiness and his Majesty, will not suffer me to be silent; and I think I should be wanting to myself, if I should fail to testifie it to your Eminence: That Moment that this Letter shall come to your Hands, it will give you a par­ticular Proof of my Affection, and Desire of the Welfare of your Family, whose Interest you hazard so much by the De­lay of the Promotion, that I could not but inform you of it. I do not consider this Affair by the Misery which may happen by the Death of his Holiness, (to whom I earnestly desire length of Days) because the greatness of the Loss you would have by the Death of so good an Uncle, stifles in my Thought the Consideration of all its Consequences. You must be blind not to see, that this shaking of your House would be a Fore­runner of its Ruine; but you lose so much from this very Moment, by not making the Promotion, and fail to take Ad­vantages so important for you, and the Church, that it is impossible to conceive the Reasons which have retarded it hi­therto. Those who envy the Grandeur of your Family, and desire its Depression, have this Satisfaction, to live in hope to see that which they desire, to your Disadvantage; and instead of fearing your Eminence, if this Promotion were made, you [Page 278] give them opportunity to despise you, by the Belief that you will not lay hold upon an occasion, which may put you in a Condition, not only not to fear them, but to have no need of them; my Endeavours after the Interests of France, which are dearer to me than my own Life, would not permit me to give you this Counsel, after the execution of which, you may have less Consideration for the Crowns; because you would not have so much need of them, if the Interests of the Church, and all Christendom, which the King prefers before his own, did not concur with yours. The Ambition of the Spaniards is too well known to the whole World, not to dis­cern, that they have no other Design, than not only to make Popes which may be favourable to them, but who may so ab­solutely depend on them, as to consider the Desires of Spain as the Rule of the Actions of the Holy Chair; and you are too quick-sighted as not to see, that if you do not fill those many Vacancies in the Consistory, you will not be strong enough to hinder them from obtaining their Ends; by con­sequence of which, the Church will be involved in a Servitude both shameful and intolerable, if the Contempt that you have of yourself, hinders you from a due Consideration of an Affair of so great Moment to your Family: The Publick Interests do not suffer you to do so, the Peace of Christendom, the Glory of God, and the Liberty of his Church, oblige you, upon pain of answering before the Tribunal of Heaven, to contribute your utmost to their Advantage, seeing there are no Reasons able to counterpoise those powerful Conside­rations. I cannot imagine that you surmize, that the Sub­jects nominated by the Crowns are not agreeable, both be­cause I know, and dare answer, that those who apply them­selves to France, will passionately embrace the Interests of your Family; and that though they should not do it, this Consideration is too weak to divert them from so important a matter. In a word, my Lord, the matter in dispute, is, so to secure the Establishment of your House, that it may not be shaken, or fall into Contempt or Ruiune.

The matter in dispute, is, Either to leave Christendom in Confusion, or to put yourself in a Capacity effectually to pro­mote its Peace, instead of being contented with insignificant Wishes for so good Ends: The matter in dispute, is, Either to abandon the Church of God, or to recover, and confirm at the same time, its Renown and Grandeur. Whereas now, those who envy your Happiness, from their Height look down upon you: This Promotion will be no sooner made, but they [Page 279] will be compell'd to lift up their Eyes, to see you in a Condi­tion very different from your former; whereas many judge by Appearances, which often deceive, that there is Blind­ness or Weakness in your Conduct: Blindness, if you do not see the Condition you are in, and Weakness and an aban­doning of yourself, if you will not make use of those Reme­dies which you have in your Power: Some will commend your Prudence, others will admire your Power, and you will be esteemed by all Men for your Ability in securing your For­tune, and the Interests of the Church, which are much dearer to you than your own. If any one blame me, be­cause I think I see a-far off, which they think your Eminence doth not judge to be so nigh; give me leave to say, That the Publick and your Interests are always so present, and so much affect me, that Paris is not so far from Rome, but I can see clearly what Matters of Importance happen in both places. I know very well, that his Holiness's Chair is the Seat of Wisdom, principally in the Life of so great a Pope. But as it is with Men in that which most concerns them, as with those who cannot see, because they are dazled with the Light which is too nigh them, I am sure your Eminence will par­don me, if I presume in this thing to be so clear-sighted, as to conjure you to prefer my Sentiments, before those which you esteem to have had hitherto. I conjure you, by the Care which you ought to have, that the succeeding Actions of his Holiness answer the Lustre of those that are past; so that it is with the Judgments of the World, as with those of God, who judges Men by their last Actions: Men would not esteem the Life of so great a Pope, being destitute of Wisdom; because this Virtue would seem not to have been the Motive of his last Thoughts. Finally, I conjure you, by the Desire you have to prolong the Pope's Days, whose Life probably will be the more assured, the greater cause of Contentment it shall have; which I wish him so heartily, that I beg of God an ample Effusion of his Blessings upon his whole House, and upon your Person, to whom I am, &c.

LETTER CCLII. To Cardinal Barberini.

TAking the boldness to write to our holy Father, upon the account of Mareschal D'Estre, the interest that I know you have with his Holiness, makes me take Pen in hand to conjure you, to consider the Merit of this Affair, and the Consequences which it may produce; and, upon this consideration, to manage it with his Beatitude, so as may satisfie the King's desires: And, tho' I do not doubt but his Holiness, approving of the Reasons which I make bold to re­present to him in my Letter, will pass by those which have hitherto hindred him to give him this satisfaction; I promise myself, that he will the more easily agree to it, when he shall be fortified by your good Offices, which I beseech you to contribute, upon this occasion, in which not only the in­terest of his Holiness is concern'd, but that of his whole House, of which the King will always have as great care, as of his own; the particular knowledge that I have of this truth, makes me give you a firm assurance of it: Be pleased there­fore firmly to believe it, since the Proofs that his Majesty will give in all Occurrences to the advantage of his Holiness and his Relations, will better confirm the certainty of it, than my words, which I only make use of at present, to conjure you to believe, that I am, &c.

LETTER CCLIII. To Victor Amedeus, Duke of Savoy.

THe Sieur de St. Michael will give your Highness a parti­cular Account of what pass'd at the taking of Privas, which, on the eighth day after the Trenches were opened, was carried on so briskly, that they were forced to surrender upon discretion. I thought it my Duty to inform you, That, during the Siege, we surprized some Letters, which Clausel, who is with your Highness, writ to Monsieur de Rehen, to de­sire him to do Miracles against the King, because of the great hopes he has of Assistance from your Parts. You may, Sir, very well imagine, that we desire, that the good Understand­ing betwixt the King and you may be continued, that those Negotiations may not be at your Court by Persons who are in your power. His Majesty has, at present, one of the Bro­thers of the said Clausel in his hands; he was taken in Privas. He has been so kind to him, that, as yet, he is not punished according to his Merits. As to what remains, I promise my self, that the Affection which you have for Madam, will in­fluence you to give her satisfaction about the Affair of Pomeuse, as I have formerly desired your Highness, and do yet repeat my Desires, by these Lines, conjuring you to believe, that, as to my particular, I will have such Sentiments of it, as you may expect from, &c.

LETTER CCLIV. To the Same.

I Am particularly obliged to your Highness for the favour you were pleased to do me, in sending Count Scarnasis to give me a Visit, and to assure me of your Good-will. I al­ways promised myself, that I should find in you that dispo­tion which you testifie you have in the King's satisfaction, and that you will shew him the Effects of it upon the present Oc­casion. So I desired you to believe, that you may be assured of his Majesty's Affections, and of all those of his House: And, as to my particular, I will serve you to my utmost. I have particularly made known to the said Count Scarnasis, my earnest Desires of the Peace, not only of Italy, but of all Christendom: To which I will gladly contribute all that may reasonably be expected from a Person, who really is, &c.

LETTER CCLV. To Victor Amedeus, Duke of Savoy.

I Was very glad to hear News of your Highness, by the Sieur d'Inchamp, who assuring me of your good Health, confirm'd in me the belief of your Affection to the King's Service: And, as an Answer to what you were pleased to write, I tell you, that the sincerity of the King's Intentions is such, that, as yet, it hath had no other design in the Affairs of Italy, than to deliver the Duke of Mantua from his Perse­cutions, in a mild and loving way: He has long hoped for this happiness; but the Delays of Spain, and the several Puttings-off which happened in all the Passages of this Affair, having [Page 283] given him great reason to believe, that the Enemies of the Duke of Mantua were pleased to speak of an Agreement and Peace with a design to do neither, he is resolved to send me into Italy, as the fore-runner of himself, with a considerable Army; and he has given me such precise Orders, that I have not the liberty of changing them: The first is, To lose no time. Which makes me desire you, quickly, to open the Ma­gazines of Savoy, according to the Promise you made to Ma­reschal Crequi, that the King's Army may begin to pass the 25th of this Month. His Majesty will be obliged by it; and I, in particular, who am, and ever will be, &c.

LETTER CCLVI. To the Princess of Piedmont.

YOur Highness honours me a thousand times more than I deserve, in vouchsafing to send me a Visit by the Sieur Morguenay, to testifie your Joy at my arrival in those Parts. I want fit words to be able to express my sense of this Favour, which I acknowledge I only owe to your Goodness; I do not doubt but you'll honour me with the continuation of your Good-will, your Candour being so great, that I look upon all your Words as infallible. You will also believe, I am certain, that I will forget nothing which may merit so great an Ho­nour, which I esteem according to its quality; having un­derstood, by the Letters which it pleas'd your Highness to write to me, by the Sieur de l'Isle, and afterward by Mareschal Crequi, that you are pleased, that I should have the honour of seeing you; and that you would communicate to me some Particulars, which you do not think convenient to trust in Writing: Now, that I may satisfie your Will, and my Desire and Duty altogether, I will not fail to send to you, by the Ma­reschal de Crequi, or the Sieur de l'Isle, the means which I think proper to attain to this end. In the mean time, I de­sire you to be assured, that no Man is more faithful to you than myself, who will always give you such clear Proofs of this truth, that you will have reason to confess me to be sincerely that which I am, &c.

LETTER CCLVII. To the Same, from Pignerol.

ALl manner of Respect and Duty obliges me to seek an occasion by these Lines, to give your Highness new Testimonies of the Passion which I always will have for your Service, and of my Obedience; and also to inform you, that I am departing hence to meet the King at Lions, where he commands me to wait upon him. I think it also my Duty to tell you, Ma [...]am, That I understand, that his Majesty's intentions are not foreign to a Peace; which may be conclu­ded, if it be desired, upon reasonable Terms: And, if it be, his Majesty desires, that your Highness would send him the Approbation of the House of Savoy. The Zeal that I know you have to promote this Affair, will make me gladly contri­bute toward it, according to my small ability, by the per­formance of those things which his Majesty desires for your satisfaction and advantage. I will assure the King, and the Queen-mother, of the tender Affection your Highness has for their Persons, and of your Displeasure of all those Passages; in which I beseech God to be your Comfort, who often suf­fers Afflictions for a good end. I will never have any other, but to shew you, by all manner of Proofs, that I am, and ever will be, &c.

LETTER CCLVIII. To the Princess of Piedmont.

I Have receiv'd the Letter which your Highness was pleased to honour me with, about the Death of the Duke of Savoy, and the desire that you have of a lasting Peace in Italy. I de­sire [Page 285] you to believe that the King has no less mind to it, but he desires it may be firm, reasonable, and honourable, in which the Queen-Mother, and all their Majesties Servants have the like Sentiments. As to my particular, I would contribute my utmost to this end, but those with whom we have to do, are so far from it at present, that they have depriv'd us of all hopes of it; but let what will happen, I will always honour your Highness, as it is my duty, and will testifie to you that I am more concern'd for your Interest than mine own, having no greater passion than that to serve you, and to let you know by real effects that I am as much as can be, &c.

LETTER CCLIX. To the Same.

I Will not omit this opportunity of assuring your Highness of the continuation of my most humble Service, of which I shall always think myself happy to be able to give you proofs upon all occasions: I do not write to you my unhappiness, by incurring the Queen-Mother's displeasure; because you may have learn'd it some other way. I only beseech you to believe, that that shall not hinder me from preserving the memory of your Obligations as long as I live, and that I will serve you up­on all occasions with all the fidelity that you may expect from a Creature wholly devoted to your Interest. As to what con­cerns your Highness, Madam, you may be certain that I will honour you, and will always have as great a care of your ad­vantage, as can be desired from, &c.

LETTER CCLX. To the Dutchess of Savoy.

I Cannot express to your Highness my extream joy at the accomodation of Affairs in Italy, for the general good of Christendom, and particularly, to your own and the Duke of Savoy's satisfaction. It is long since I earnestly desir'd to see things in the condition they are now in, for which I praise God with all my heart; and tho' I do not at all doubt, but that things were manag'd by his Inclination, as you are plea­sed to write; it is also certain, that your Perswasions were very efficacious to this purpose: which is the reason, that by the consent of the whole world, you merit more Glory, than my Pen is able to express: He will reap this advantage by it, That renewing a sincere and good understanding with the King, he will receive all the testimonies of affection which he may ex­pect of his Majesty; and you, Madam, all the marks of that singular esteem which he has for your Person, and of that tender love he has had for you many years. As for my parti­cular, I beseech you to believe, that I will always advance at his Court your Highness's Interest as much as you can desire, and will give you, upon all occasions, such clear proofs of the passion with which I honour you, and desire to serve you, that you shall have no reason to doubt of it: In the mean time, be pleas'd to give me leave to tell you, that Mr. d' He­mery having inform'd me, that the Duke of Savoy has assured, that he will be satisfy'd as to matters relating to his house. I will diligently endeavour that the King shall give him all possi­ble instances which may tend to his satisfaction, desiring to shew you upon this occasion, as in all others, that that which concerns you, shall be equally regarded as my own life; all my actions shall confirm this truth, and that which I now de­clare in subscribing, &c.

LETTER CCLXI. To the Same.

IF I were able to express the passion which I have, and will have as long as I live for your Highness, I do not at all doubt, but you would believe it as sincere as you can de­sire it, of that Man who honours and respects you to the high­est degree imaginable; and till time, and my actions shall make this truth appear, give me leave to tell you, that if that which Mr. Mazarin, and the Count de Druent have told me, of the Duke of Savoy's Affection to the King, be real, as I do not at all doubt; I dare boldly assure him, that he will be very well satisfy'd with his Highness, promising him, that I will for­get nothing which may depend upon me to serve him with all possible diligence, in things which may be the most useful to him: I always have had a particular esteem for the Duke of Savoy, and believed, that by appyling himself altogether to France, he may do miracles, being a Man of resolution in all his undertakings. I am yet possess'd with the same thought to that degree, that I do not at all despair of many good Events, if his Highness be no more so unresolv'd, as I have ob­serv'd him to be, before he engages in any Design, and if he will despise small Interests, to which he applys himself to that degree, that we cannot procure him great ones as we desire. I am assur'd your Highness will pardon me that I speak so free­ly, because I do it to serve you, seeing plainly, that now is the time to have a good Union betwixt the King and the Duke of Savoy, or else we must never expect it; and I think I do my duty, in informing you what may be done, in contributing my utmost to satisfie your desires. The King has most expresly commanded the Mareschal d' Effiat, to give you good Bills of Assignment for your Pension; as also to the Cardinal of Savoy, whom I will serve the more willingly, because I see, by one of your Letters, that you are very well satisfy'd with him, desiring to make it appear in every thing; that con­cerns you, or wherein I may please you, that I am, and ever will be, &c.

LETTER CCLXII. To the Same.

I Have receiv'd the Letter with which your Highness was pleas'd to honour me by Mr. Mazarin, and was particu­larly inform'd by him, what your Highness thought good he should impart to me; I have not words fit to express my Gra­titude and Obligations to you, for that Favour that you are pleas'd to give a testimony of your Confidence in me, assu­ring you, that you can have it in no body who will more en­deavour to deserve it. In the mean time, give me leave, if you please, to tell you, That you had very good reason to judge that I would have no great pity of the Evil that troubles you; because, if it ends, as I earnestly desire, to your satisfacti­on, it may prove an unspeakable Blessing: The Passion which I have for all your Concerns, makes me hope a Happy Success; yet if I were deceiv'd in my belief, I will not be so in that which I have, that being always like yourself, you will bear this Accident with the same Constancy, as you have done that other Affliction upon the same Occasion, with the hopes of being one day most happy: I promise myself so much from God's goodness, that he will not only defend you from real Evils, but from the very fear of them: I beg it of him with all my heart, desiring your Highness to believe, that I will have no greater Satisfaction in the World, than when I can demonstrate to you more and more by my Services, that no body is equal to me in the Passion with which I am, and ever will be, &c.

LETTER CCLXIII. To the Same.

HAving seen by a Letter, which it pleased your Highness to honour me with, the belief that some body has done you some bad Offices in our Parts, I take my Pen in hand to desire you not to be concern'd on that account; because no­thing can be spoken of any thing relating to you, but what must really turn to your advantage: Therefore pray let your Mind be at ease as to that matter, and think only of what may af­ford you satisfaction, being certain that you shall be seconded by France according to your desire, and particularly by me, who will always esteem your Interest more than my own, since I am, and ever will be, &c.

LETTER CCLXIV. To the Same.

THE Sieur Bernet has given me the Letter with which your Highness was pleas'd to honour me, and has com­municated to me your belief, which is of no small considera­tion; I cannot be sufficiently amazed at the evil disposition of the Princess of Carignan, and at the scandalous Discourse which is reported she makes use of to your Prejudice: I will not conceal that some Noise of it has reach'd the King's Ears. I omitted nothing of my Duty to let him know the Falshood of such Calumnies, which have no bad impression upon his mind. I confess, Madam, That those who will be glad to advantage themselves by blemishing your Virtue, strive to colour their Calumnies with so many circumstances, that they [Page 290] have no foundation; yet they have some false appearance in their malice, and I should not be your Highness's Servant to that degree that I pretend to be, if by my Obedience to what you are pleas'd to command, to write to you what I think proper for your Service. I did not tell you, that the first and principal thing you ought to do, in my Opinion, is, so to de­port yourself, that your Enemies may not be able to misinter­pret any of your Actions: It will be, Madam, a very easie thing, and by that means, you will prevent that at any time none do you any bad Office with the Duke of Savoy; and this Proceeding will be no small help to the King, in the Design which he has always had to assist you upon all Occasions. This being done, Madam, as I do not at all doubt of it, because it wholly depends upon you, your Highness need be afraid of nothing, let the Endeavours of your Enemies against you be never so powerful.

I am of your Highness's mind, That the Designs of those who would blemish your Virtues by their railings, have a fur­ther tendancy than at first sight they seem to have; but I hope God will preserve your Husband longer than those Men; and I can assure you, that if ever Spain, by any ones Instigation howsoever, undertake any thing against him, your Highness, and the Children that it has pleas'd God to give you both, that the King will protect you so powerfully, that she shall receive nothing but shame by her Enterprize. It is in this, Madam, that I am Oblig'd to serve you as I am in Duty bound, assuring you, that I should think it a great Honour to pass the Mountains once more, to give you a Testimony of the Passion I always had for yours, and the Duke of Savoy's Service; who, I am certain, will be unmindful of nothing which may be expected from his good Conduct, to invite his Majesty to give him his Protection, and the other Effects of his Benevolence. I will not conceal from your Highness, that many have thought that the Retreat of Prince Thomas into the King of Spain's Do­minions was concerted with him; but I can assure you, that the King never believ'd it, neither did it enter into any of their thoughts, who have the Honour to Serve him. I do not at all doubt, but that there will be a better Understanding betwixt his Majesty, and your Highness's, than ever: It is that which I desire with all my heart, and the means to make it appear that I am, and ever will be, &c.

LETTER CCLXV. To the Duke of Savoy.

I Have receiv'd the Letter which your Highness was pleas'd to Write by Count Lumiane, upon a Subject of which I have nothing to say, but that I contributed something to Mon­sieur's return into this Kingdom, as you esteem him. I have done nothing in this but according to the King's Inclinations, who is so well dispos'd to those who concern him, that it is impossible to express it. I give a thousand thanks to your Highness, for the Testimonial you were pleas'd to give me upon this Subject, beseeching you to believe; that you shall be sensible by my Affection and Service upon all Occasions, that I am, &c.

LETTER CCLXVI. To the Same.

IT would be a Crime in me, to defer any longer to testifie my extraordinary satisfaction at the Glory which you have acquired by the Victory, with which it pleas'd God to bless your Arms in those Parts.

I do not represent to you the King's sence of it, because you may better discover it by a Letter which his Majesty has writ upon that Subject, than I can express it in these Lines. I will satisfie myself only to tell you, that he promises himself, that your Highness will so advantageously manage all Opportu­nities, which you shall esteem Profitable for the common Cause, that you will advance your Affairs to the highest De­gree [Page 292] that may be expected from your Valour and Prudence together; this, Sir, as to my particular, I passionately desire, both for his Majesty's and your own Reputation. I am, &c.

LETTER CCLXVII. To the Dutchess of Savoy.

THE King, making no distinction betwixt your High­ness's and his own Servants, commanded me to send to your Highness two Briefs of Marechax de Camp in his Army, and two others of Pensions for the Count de Verrue, and the Marquess de Ville, that they may receive them by your hands. I also send you by his Majesty's Order, two blank Briefs for Pensions, which you may fill up with their Names whom you judge most worthy, and whom you know to be best affected to his Majesty, and your Highness. In this, as in all other things, you may see the esteem that the King has for your Person, and the desire I have according to his Intentions, to manifest to you what Zeal I have for what concerns the Advantage of your Highness, to whom I am, &c.

LETTER CCLXVIII. To the Duke of Savoy.

IT is needless to represent to your Highness the concerns I have for the mascarriage of the Siege of Valence, and that which followed, because you may easily conceive it both by my Passion for the welfare of the King's and your Highness's Affairs, and by the desire I always had to see his Majesty's Arms profi [...]er under your Conduct. I will only tell you, that the King is so well satisfy'd with your Proceedings in this Jun­cture, and has such an entire Confidence in your Affection [Page 293] and Sincerity, that nothing can be more. His Majesty sends express Orders to Mareschal Crequi not only to have a defe­rence for your Sentiments, but entirely to follow your Inten­tions and Resolutions, so I do not doubt but that things for the future being thus manag'd, you will re-establish the Affairs of Italy as well as ever, and by consequence, your Prudence and Courage will produce Effects very advantageous for the common good. I earnestly desire it, Sir, not only for the King's Service, but for the particular Glory of your Highness. I am, &c.

LETTER CCLXIX. To the Dutchess of Savoy.

IT is not necessary that I represent to your Highness my ex­tream Satisfaction, at the Advantage which the Arms, com­manded by the Duke of Savoy in Italy, have gained over the Enemies in the last Battle, which happened at the Post of Thesim, because it will be easie for you to conceive it by the Passion I have, and always will have, for the King's and your Highness's Service; Neither do I take Pen in hand for this purpose, but only to let you know the ineffable Joy his Ma­jesty received thereby, which proceeds not so much from the Reputation which this Action gives to his Affairs, as from the Honour, and the Glory, which his Highness has acquir'd upon this occasion; in which, truly, he has omitted nothing which might be expected from his Prudence, his Valour, and Courage. A Fortnight ago I took the Boldness to write to your Highness, that considering the Duke of Savoy might have need of some Supply, for the Expence he is ob­liged to, I would endeavour to obtain him one of the King, the first time I should have the Honour to see him; now, that I might keep my Promise, and satisfie my Desire together, I laid hold upon the Opportunity of the good News of the Suc­cess in Italy, to make the Proposal to his Majesty, who, not­withstanding the great Affairs he has now in hand, has chear­fully granted him three hundred thousand Livres, of which I shall give to our Embassadour good Bills of Assignment, all [Page 294] payable within the Year. I will be very diligent in this mat­ter, desiring to give your Highness a Testimony, that not on­ly upon this occasion, but upon any other, wherein your In­terest and Satisfaction are concern'd, you are more dear to me than my Life, and that I am, and ever will be, &c.

LETTER CCLXX. To the Dutchess of Savoy.

I Cannot express to you my Resentment of the Injury the Cardinal of Savoy has done himself, by running counter to his Duty, and your Intentions, without any Reason. It is true, that his Levity and Inconstancy will be blamed by the whole World. But that which vexes me most, is, the mis­chievous Design that he and Prince Thomas may have for your Prejudice; the King has so much tenderness to your High­ness, that he can never promise you any Assistance, but he is better than his Word. I can assure you, that upon all Occa­sions, and at all times, I will forget nothing that may depend upon me, not truly for your own Service, but for all theirs who belong to you; beseeching you to believe, that tho' I have always hitherto been your Servant as much as may be, I am now doubly so: The King is very much assured of the Fidelity of the Duke of Savoy. I will gladly be his Caution upon this, or any other Article. The Count of St. Morice has spoke to me about an Honour, which your Highness de­signs to bestow upon me, of which I think myself so unwor­thy, that I dare not so much as think of it. Those are Proofs of your excessive Bounty, which oblige me more and more to be what I am, &c.

LETTER CCLXXI. To the Same.

I Cannot sufficiently praise God for the happy Deliverance of your Highness from the Pains and Perils of Childbirth, and for the new Blessing which he is pleased to add to your Family, nor testifie to you my particular Joy for it. I make no Answer to that which concerns the Design that your Highness is pleased to have upon this occasion relating to me; because it is so much above me, that I can but commend your Bounty from whence it proceeds; and desire to be so happy, as to be able to declare my Sence of it, words being not capable to express it. I will endeavour to supply that Defect by the best Services I am able to do you, to let you see, that no body is equally yours, as is, &c.

LETTER CCLXXII. To the Same.

I Think it needless to declare to your Highness my Grief for the Duke of Savoy's Sickness, and that your Knowledge of the Zeal and Passion I have always had for both your Persons, is sufficient to make you conceive to what degree it is. I will only tell you, Madam, that the King was sensibly affected with the News; and the same Hour he heard it, he dispatched this Gentleman to let you know his Concerns for it, and to bring back the Conditions of his Health, for which he is in much Pain. I do not tell you, Madam, the Tenderness and Af­fection, which it pleases his Majesty to declare to me he has for you upon account of this Sickness; because, besides that the Embassadour will not fail to make it known to you; as [Page 296] also, what we esteem proper for your Highness's Service in this Juncture. I am sure you do not doubt, but they are such as you desire. I will only assure you by these Lines, That if the Duke of Savoy should unfortunately dye, which I hope God of his Mercy will prevent, the King will omit nothing that may depend upon his Power and Authority to protect your Highness, and to hinder that those, who are Enemies of your Peace, and have always envied your Virtue, be not able to do you any Harm. As to my particular, Madam, I beseech your Highness to believe, That I will always esteem myself extreamly happy, to employ the Remainder of my Life, to second his Majesty's Intentions for your Advantage; and to let you know, by my Actions and Services, that no body doth, and will honour you with more Sincerity than myself; nor is more truly what I always will be, &c.

LETTER CCLXXIII. To the Dutchess of Savoy.

AS our Affliction is unparalell'd, so my Sorrow is ineffa­ble. I confess I was so surprized with this Misfor­tune, which has happened not only to your Highness, but to all Christendom, that nothing but God can give me any Comfort. It is from his Hand, Madam, that I expect your Highness will receive Consolation, and from him alone; so great a Distemper must have no less a Physician. The King, who will always look upon your Interests as his own, is ex­treamly afflicted with this Accident. You will receive what­ever you may expect from his Benificence, assuring you, Ma­dam, that he will, upon this occasion, do more for your Highness than for himself. As for me, Madam; be pleased to put me at the Head of all your most zealous Servants, who always take most Care of your Concerns, and who will omit nothing which they think may contribute to your Prospe­rity, &c.

LETTER CCLXXIV. To the Same.

THe more your Enemies strive to publish their mischie­vous Designs against your Person, the more doth the Zeal which I have always had for your Highness's Service augment; and I hope I shall be happy enough to find out some opportunity to give you new Proofs of it, and by the same means discover to you, the Designs of those who do not love your Highness, and who desire to disturb your Peace, are disappointed; yet this matter depends upon your High­ness's Conduct, and the stout and good Resolutions which you shall take at your Entrance upon the Government, to maintain your Authority, and to prevent the Mischiefs which your Enemies would do you. I pray your Highness to believe, that the King will prevent it with all his Power; and that, as to my particular, I honour you, and will not omit my ut­most to second his Majesty's Sentiments to your Advan­tage; and to let you know at the same time, that as your Highness has no Subject, over whom you have a more abso­lute Power than myself, so you have none, who more really is, and will be, &c.

LETTER CCLXXV. To the Same.

I Cannot sufficiently commend the Care which Monsieur d'Hemery writes your Highness will have of your Affairs, and that Prudence by which you distinguish betwixt good and bad Servants. I could never have believ'd that which you were pleased to discover of him, of the Intentions of Fa­ther [Page 298] Monod. I do not much value his mischievous Designs, which your Highness acknowledges he has against France, and those who have the Honour to serve the King: But I am so concern'd at that, which his Behaviour made your Highness take notice of, that he has against your Person, and your Children, that it is impossible to express it. I am under a perpetual Apprehension of the continual Danger your High­ness is exposed to, having such a turbulent Spirit nigh you, and the Mischief he may do you, which may happen in an instant, without any possibility of a Remedy, if it be not pre­vented. I confess I cannot be at Ease, till I know your Highness has put in Execution the good Resolutions that Mon­sieur d'Hemery tells me you have taken, to secure your Estate, your Person, and your Children; the King desiring nothing so much, as to give you a Testimony of the extraordinary Passion he has for you, cannot be more afflicted, than to see you in a Condition of receiving no Advantage by his Prote­ction. Beside, the Letter which he has wrote to your High­ness, he has particularly commanded me to declare his Sen­timents upon this occasion. I have so enlarged to Monsieur d'Hemery, that it is superfluous to say any more. Your High­ness will be pleased to believe what he shall say upon this Subject; and also, that no Man honours you more than I, who desire your Welfare, your Grandeur, and the Advantage of your Children, as much as yourself; all my Actions shall confirm this Truth, and that I am, &c.

LETTER CCLXXVI. To the Same.

THE Extremity of your Affairs makes me take Pen in Hand, to tell you in a few Words, That you can take no other Method for your Safety, than what the King's Em­bassadours have proposed to you, concerning the depositing some Places in Piedmont: As a Man must be extraordinary wicked, to desire to reap any other Advantage thereby, than yours and your Son's Safery, and the Re-establishment of your States; so, unless you be blind, you cannot but see, that [Page 299] this is the only Remedy. There is no other that can preserve you from Ruine.

Your Highness will give me leave to tell you, That the bad State of your Affairs do not suffer you to be unresolved at a Juncture, wherein every Moment is inestimable; and Ne­cessity and Reason so agree together, that the first commands what the other advises. If you despise the Counsel that I give you, you will know the Profit of it, when you cannot enjoy the Effects of it; and if, by following it, your High­ness do not find it good, I agree that you cry me down in the World, and make me pass for what I am not. It is your part, Madam, to have a care not to be amused by the Spaniards; as sick Men, who in the Intermissions of a Fever, think they are absolutely cured. But to imitate the Physi­cians, who make use of that time to prevent succeeding Fits, the Wisdom which God has given your Highness will so plain­ly manifest to you, that your Interest is the only Motive which makes me speak after this manner; and not doubting of the good Resolution you will take, nothing remains, but to assure you, that I will never change that of being, &c.

LETTER CCLXXVII. To the Same.

THE Count of Cameran, who is returning to your High­ness, will particularly tell you the Passion with which I will serve you upon the present occasion. I conjured him to beseech you, by the Consideration of your own Interest, not to suffer yourself to be ensnared by the Artifices of the Spaniards, who have no other Design, than to delude all those with whom they treat with fair Appearance. I always apprehended that which I now perceive from their Malice, and have often represented it to those who belong'd to your Highness. I hope their wicked Designs will not have the in­tended Effect; at least, I can assure you, Madam, that the King will omit nothing, which may depend upon his Power, to defeat them; and that, if the Zeal which I always had for your Highness's Service were capable of Augmentation, it [Page 300] should now be redoubled, to shew you, upon this occasion, as upon all others, I really am, &c.

LETTER CCLXXVIII. To the Same.

THis Letter is only to tell your Highness, that Experience having inform'd you, that the Advice which you have hitherto taken, was the best that could be to advance your Enemies Affairs, and to ruine your own. Nothing now re­mains to be done to save yourself, but quickly to take away contrary to what you have hitherto taken: If the Advice I give you, may be any way prejudicial to you, I myself desire you not to f [...]llow it: But if it be the only remaining Means to preserve you from utter Ruine, which your Enemies will endeavour to make shameful, you must be deprived of that Wisdom God has given you, if you do not embrace those Overtures made to you by the King's Embassadours. It is not time for Deliberation; nothing now remains, but to execute a good Resolution, which alone can defend your Life, and the remainder of your Son the Duke of Savoy's States, and your Liberty altogether. I beseech you to behave yourself so, that I may be found a better Physician than a Prophet. I have been one of them but too much, in your Highness's Con­cerns, to my great Sorrow. I dare take upon me, tho' your Distemper be very dangerous, to be the other, if you are wil­ling, as I conjure you, for your own sake, who am, &c.

LETTER CCLXXIX. To the Same.

AS I have no greater Passion, than to make known to your Highness that which I have for your Service, I can receive no greater Joy, than to understand, by the Let­ters with which you are pleased to honour me, that the Te­stimonies which I endeavour to give you of it, are agree­able and satisfactory; beseeching you to believe, that as to my particular, I shall always be so, when I can be serviceable in any thing; and that, as your Interests are as dear to me as the King's, I will omit no Opportunity of managing them according as you yourself can desire, as I have particularly declared to your Embassadour. I do not represent to you my Joy for the taking of Coni, because, you being sensible of my Zeal for the Prosperity and the Advantage of the King's, and your Highness's Affairs, which are conjoin'd, you will judge what it was: I will only tell you, that I hope, by God's Goodness, that this good Success will make way for others, which will be no less advantageous to you. I wish it with all my Heart, and your Highness to believe, that I ever will be, &c.

LETTER CCLXXX. To the Same.

I Do not doubt, but your Highness, in what concerns me, has taken that part which you were pleased to testifie, both by the Letters with which you have honoured me, and by your Embassadour; for which Reason, I give you all the Thanks which your Goodness requires. I do not send to you for what Reasons the King secured the Person of Monsieur Bouillon, because you will particularly have them some other way. I will only tell you, that it being confidently reported to us, that he thought to prevail with your Highness to favour his mischievous Designs. I should think myself extreamly obliged to you, if you would do me the Favour to impart the Discourse he had with you upon that Subject, and how far you could penetrate into his Intentions. While I expect News from your Highness, I will tell you, that tho' there is much Fault to be found with the Treaty of Accommodation made with your Brothers-in-law, yet the Desire the King has always had to procure the Tranquility of your Son's States, by teaching those Princes their Duty, is the Reason that his Majesty, in my Opinion, will pass by that Consideration, to testifie more and more, that there is nothing that he will not do for your Sake. As to my particular, Madam, I beseech your Highness to believe, that I will always contribute to your Advantage, all that you can expect from a Man that honours you, and is with the greatest Passion. &c.

LETTER CCLXXXI. To Monsieur d' Hemery.

I Was so surpriz'd and afflicted with the Duke of Savoy's sick­ness, that I cannot declare it to you, both by reason of the exigency of Affairs, and for her Highness's sake, whom I love and honour much. I hope God will preserve him for Madam, and the greatest evil that will happen to us upon her account, will be the apprehension of bad Success. If this misfortune should happen, nothing is to be done but what you propose, to wit, to make Madam Guardian of her Children, to make those who are in place, trusty and faithful to her, and abso­lutely to hinder the Cardinal of Savoy from returning, to have a care of his and Prince Thomas's Cabals, and to take care that Madam have a good, wise, and couragious Council, well af­fected to her Interest, and consequently to France, from whence all her Peace must be deriv'd; here you have in a few words the Plan, according to which you must act. I take you to be so wise and discreet, that I do not doubt, but that if you have judged that the Duke of Savoy's sickness will not end well, you have already made some Application that way, as far as in pru­dence you might, that his Highness in his Will may appoint Madam, Guardian of her Children, and give an express Com­mandment to his Officers and Servants to acknowledge her in that Quality.

LETTER CCLXXXII. To Monsieur d' Hemery, upon the death of the Duke of Savoy.

I Am so afflicted at the Duke of Savoy's death, that it is im­possible for me to express it. This accident has so much the more affected me, because it has surpris'd us when we thought least of it: I have nothing to add to that which I wrote two days ago, upon the subject of his Highness's sickness, only, that as I believe, that Madam ought to make it her principal Aim, to hinder her Brothers-in-law from entring into her States; I think also she ought to relux that great and just Ri­gour, which the Duke of Savoy had in depriving them of their Possessions. Upon this ground, I think, she may let the Cardi­nal of Savoy know, that she will suffer him to enjoy what be­longs to him, and mildly dispose him to live at Rome, without pretending to return into Piedmont.

It is thought that Madam may restore him Masserati, whom the Duke of Savoy has put in Prison, and that this Man carry­ing him this news to Rome, may dispose him, of his own ac­cord, to do what Madam desires. Whether it be by this way, or any other, it is altogether necessary to stand upon these Terms. We find ourselves much troubled to nominate the Persons Madam ought to make use of; you know Father Mo­nod, it is hard to pass him by in the conditions he is in; it is also difficult to have any confidence in him.

The Marquess of St. Morice is a very good Man, he is alto­gether joyn'd to Father Monod, he was as you know, Master of the Horse to Prince Thomas. I fear that Father Monod endea­vours to make Count Philippes perswade Madam that it signi­fies nothing to her, whether or no the Cardinal of Savoy re­turn into her States. I do not tell you this without reason, having seen some Men who have already perceiv'd that the Sentiments of some of that State tend that way: and the de­sire of such Men can be no other but to strengthen and fortifie themselves against Madam upon all occasions, when she doth [Page 305] not Act according to their desires, and by this means to weak­en her Authority. You must, above all things, have a care of such Council, by which, neither Madam's nor her Childrens life will be secure. Whatever Council her Highness is pleas'd to take, it is reasonable she should impart it to the King, and so, that those who are chosen, may know it was by his Majesty's Approbation. We will send you by the first, after what man­ner Henry the Second govern'd himself upon the like Occasion, upon the death of the Duke of Savoy's Grand-father.

LETTER CCLXXXIII. To Monsieur d' Hemery.

THE Duke of Savoy having shewn the strength of his Judgment, even to his death, in making Madam Guar­dian of his Children, she is oblig'd, by Honour and Conscience, to do her utmost to demonstrate to her State, and all Christen­dom, That she knows how to make use of that Power which his deceased Highness has bequeath'd her.

When she has taken the Oath of Fidelity from all the Chief Officers of her State, and has well considered that there is no suspicious Person in place, she can think of nothing more use­ful and necessary than to choose a good Council, whose Repu­tation may add Credit to her Government.

And in order thereunto, I think that she ought to make it her principal aim to hinder her Brothers-in-law from return­ing into her State, or cabaling in her absence.

I think, that in their Correction she must use Mildness, and relax that just Rigour the Duke of Savoy used for their Good. Upon this ground, she may let them know her Resolution to suffer them to enjoy their Possessions; and let them be de­sired, at the same time, not to pretend to enjoy them in any place but where they are.

It is thought, that if Madam set at liberty the Cardinal of Savoy's Domestic, which his late Highness had Imprisoned, and send him to carry this News, it will be a double Obliga­tion to make him comply with Madam's desires.

It is a thing of Importance, that Madam give some ease to [Page 304] her Subjects: But if, this be impossible during the War, it is necessary that she declare, that she only expects a Peace, to give them a Testimony of the Clemency of her Conduct.

Madam's great Forefight makes me believe that she will not suffer herself to be excell'd by any other of her Sex who have had the Administration of a State. Yet, after she has de­clar'd her Goodness, as she ought, to all her Subjects, it is alto­gether necessary that she use Force and Vigour against those who shall contradict her Will, and are guilty of Crimes against the State.

For Instance, If any of her Brothers-in-law should presume to enter into her States, she must shut the Gates in all places, and absolutely deny them entrance, the Security of Madam and her Children, the Peace and Tranquility of her State depends so absolutely upon this Point, that if she neglect to observe it, upon any pretence whatsoever, we can foresee nothing but mischievous Consequences from such a Neglect. If any of the Governours or principal Officers be known to be Adherents to those Gentlemen, they must be changed, without giving them time to put their wicked Designs in execution: and if any one fail, he must be severely punish'd.

In a word, By how much the more Madam's Sex is esteem'd to be weak, she ought to govern with so much the more Force and Vigour, that a good Discipline may be kept in her Government.

I do not speak of the Deference which Madam ought to have to the King's Advice, because she is too wise, not to know, that under God, all her Safety depends upon him. As she must have a particular care to regulate herself by the Counsels that are given her by a Person so concern'd for her welfare: those, of his Majesty's Friends, who are about her, must think of no­thing but to govern themselves with Modesty, that all her Highness's States may know, that the only Design of his Ma­jesty is purely to Assist Madam, for her own sake, without any other Pretence than her Advantage, and the Security of her Childrens States.

This Circumpection is altogether necessary to take away all Pretence from those who, being Adherents of Spain, would make seeming, that the proper Interest of Madam and her Children should oblige her to seek for a Counterpoise from thence, to oppose the Pretence that France may have to her Prejudice. I do not take notice of the care you must have to please Madam, because it is a thing so well known, that no body who is employ'd at her Court can fail of that Duty.

Since nothing more a [...]enates Men's minds than Violence, it is wholly necessary that the King's Servants, who shall be at her Highness's Court, act with so much Modesty, that instead of provoking their Spirits, with whom they have to do, they must win them by Gentleness.

LETTER CCLXXXIV. To the Same.

MAdam may be assured, that if the Cardinal of Savoy be in Piedmont, there is no safety for her, or her Chil­dren. Let Men say what they please, she ought to suspect e­very body, who saith the contrary. If the said Cardinal has had the Impudence to speak to the prejudice of Madam's Re­putation, while the Duke of Savoy lived, what is it he will not do now?

It is not doubted but at first he will say the quite contrary, and tell Madam that he only comes to serve her: but this is his way to get Footing, and to strike the Blow afterwards.

It is much to be feared, as you represent, that Father Mo­nod corresponds with him: and if so, if he have any influence over Madam, he will do her a great deal of mischief. He is a Man full of Artifice, who will watch his opportunity, and change his Mind so many ways, that at last he will make her fall into some Snare; and without doubt, he will, in the end, ruine Count Philippes, if he have not a care of him.

We fear from this moment, either Poison or Daggers; and besides, Madam's loss in losing her Creatures, it will rebound upon her, and afterwards infallibly cause her Ruine.

If Madam's Government be weak in the beginning, it will end in ruine; if it be strong, all things may be remedied.

Her Strength must appear, by opposing the Cardinal of Sa­voy's coming, and so effectuly opposing it, that if he enter in­to the State, Madam must consent that the King order him to be arrested and brought into France, where he shall be treat­ed as a Person of Quality. After such an Action, it is Ma­dam's Duty to see those who are reasonably suspected to her: and if God give her the Grace to continue the Suspicion, which [Page 308] you write she has had of Father Monod, it will be a particular saving Grace for her: For, to tell you the truth, as you are very sensible, to nourish him at Court, is to nourish a Ser­pent; and Count Philippes is very blind, if he do not see that he will be his Ruine, and let his Pretences be never so speci­ous, he only watches an Opportunity.

He is a Man who knows very well that he shall never go­vern Madam, both because of Count Philippes and France.

He knows also, that he will dispose of the Cardinal of Savoy as he pleases, and it is easie to see the Consequence.

If Count Philippes will consider those things, the way to remove this Man will be easie.

First of all, It is not the business of a Religious Man to meddle with Affairs of State; if Madam Command him to follow his Vocation, she will be commended by every body.

Besides, Madam may send him into France; where, if she pleases, he may be detain'd with Gentleness, and, by the con­sent of his Superiours, may be interdicted from returning into Piedmont, but when Madam pleases.

As this Affair is important, Monsieur d' Hemery must have a care not to Hazard it, but he must so order it, that Madam, or Count Philippes may endeavour to bring about this Design so necessary to their Preservation.

The Cardinal of Savoy may take two other Resolutions, be­side coming to Turin to Madam's Court:

The one is, to go into some place in Piedmont, who may o­pen him the Gates: and if that should happen, nothing must be omitted to drive him out immediately, by one way or o­ther, in this weak Condition of the Spaniards.

The other is, to stay in the State of Milan nigh Piedmont; in which case he declares himself an Enemy of Madam, and her Children. In this case, you cannot do better, than to do as you write to send to offer him his Goods if he will live at Rome, and to deny them if he continue with the Spaniards; you must by consequence forbid all the Cities from receiving him, and in effect, you must take such care, and place such faithful Men in them, that he may be deny'd entrance.

If after all, Mareschal Crequi could, under his Nose, give a Defeat to the Spaniards, it would be very well. You must have a firm Foot, and a good Eye upon those Occasions, both Resolution and Courage. We think we ought to Advertise you, that tho' Count St. Morice be a very brave Gentleman, yet he is altogether joyn'd to Father Monod, of which you shall seem to have no notice from us. I do not at all doubt [Page 307] but being separated from this good Director, he will be a ve­ry good Man for Madam.

In this Exigency of the Affairs of Mantua, the only way to hinder the Dutchess of Mantua from losing her Son's States, is so absolutely to secure Cazal, that there be nothing to be feared on that side: In order to that, I think, you must take all those who are suspected, not only out of the Cittadel, but the City, and all Persons who may be contrary to the French Interest, allied to the Little Prince.

You must make known the King's good Intentions to the Sieurs Guiscardi, Mercurin, Prat, and all others, who shall be capable, to whom the King permits you to give Pensions, as you shall see convenient, which shall be paid here upon sight.

As this Affair must be done with Magnanimity, so it must be manag'd with Prudence, giving to the Princess the least occasion of Complaint that can be; but it is better that by gi­ving us occasion, as she doth, by declaring herself for the Spanish Interest, she may have some unreasonable occasion, ra­ther than satisfie her Desires at the Expence of her Son, and France together.

LETTER CCLXXV. To the Same.

THE Answer that Monsieur de Chavigny has given to your Letters is so particular, that I do not think it ne­cessary to add any thing. I take my Pen in hand only to tell you, that having seen it, I think you cannot do better than to observe it punctually: You are so judicious and discreet, that you know I am certain, how to make use of the Contents for the King's Service, as Affairs in all Courts may change in a moment. If any important or considerable thing happen, in that in which you are, it will be the part of your Prudence to do what is proper, and after having conferr'd with Mareschal Crequi and Madam's Servants, whom you know to be well af­fected to France, and by Consequence to the Advantage of her Highness's Affairs, to take the best Resolutions that may be.

LETTER CCLXXXVI. To Mareschal Crequi.

YOU will see, by the Express sent to Monsieur d' He­mery, and which he has Order to Communicate to you, that which we think ought to be done in the places where you are, for the King's and Madam's Service, and the Advantage of their Affairs; it will be your part, Gentlemen, to see, and diligently to examine the most proper and most cer­tain Means to make the King's Intentions succeed: In the Execution of which, I am assured, you will want neither Pru­dence, Affection, nor Courage. You may also believe, that I will lose no opportunity to make your Actions and Services be valu'd as you can desire, of a Person who Esteems you, and really is, &c.

LETTER CCLXXXVII. To Monsieur d' Hemery.

I Cannot sufficiently commend the Goodness with which Ma­dam has discovered to you the Malice which a certain Per­son, of whom you write, has made use of to her Prejudice, perswading her, that her Creatures ought to be jealous of the King, and that I had told him something of this nature, is so manifest an Imposture, that a Man must be a Devil to invent it; and it is to be fear'd, that a Spirit capable of so diabolical an Artifice, may commit far greater Villanies. I confess, that since I have known this Discovery, that Madam's Generosity has made, I am more afraid for her than I can speak; but I hope, that her Interest, which has begun to give her a glim­mering, [Page 309] will wholly open her Eyes. The different Attempts that this good Man has made to perswade Madam to be dissa­tisfy'd with France, altho' without Reason, upon the Account of the Solemnities which the King perform'd at the Duke of Savoy's Obsequies, who were greater than any that were ever made in France for any but Kings, sufficiently demonstrate his good Intentions. But altho' we discover an extream Ma­lice in this, that which appears in his Endeavours, to make the Cardinal of Savoy return into Piedmont, and to introduce the Abbot Soldati, as he has done once, and would again, is far greater, because it directly tends to Madam's Ruine. We have seen Letters which report, that this good Apostle cryed down Madam's good Intentions; if it be so, it is easie to de­termine, that if her Highness do not take care of herself, and remove so wicked a Spirit, she will find herself prevented, and unable to do it. I confess to you, that the King is in Pain, all Men in those parts are concern'd in it; but above all, Madam's particular Creatures, being certain, that they are the first whom he will endeavour to Subdue, that he may the more easily Ruine Madam afterward: If Madam be not sensible of her own Interests, she ought to consider that of her Children; having before her Eyes, that, in such Affairs, wicked Men have no bounds. Make her, in God's Name, set a Watch over her Mouth; and, after having by Reason inform'd her what may be useful, take this Court for an Example, which could never free itself from Trouble, and secure its Peace, as long it endured Factious Spirits in its Bowels.

I think, that the Expedient propos'd, to send the Person in dispute into this Court, is very good, provided you can make him consent to it.

You may let him know, that Madam's Protection depends chiefly upon the King; there is no probability that her High­ness will make use of him in her Affairs; because, in his last Journey, he left France not very well satisfied with his Pro­ceedings: And, for this reason, it is necessary for him to re­turn, to be reconciled to his Majesty and his chief Minsters. If he readily condescend to this Proposal, you will gain Time by this Journy, and penetrate more and more into his Mind.

If he refuse this Overture, it must be with a worse design than what can be foreseen, and Madam will have more op­portunity to provide for herself another way: And, in effect, I do not see how she can make any difficulty of it, knowing that the Duke of Savoy resolved, before his death, to use this Remedy, from which she alone diverted him. If he ap­prehended [Page 310] such a mischievous Spirit, she ought to double her Fears, and imagine that he will practice so much the more boldly against her; because those who ought to revenge those Crimes, may be those who shall recompence them: Upon such occasions you must fear every thing, and imagine, that all preventing Remedies are ever gentle, in respect of those which must be used when the Distemper rages: There are also ma­ny Evils in Affairs of State, which are no sooner begun but they are incurable.

LETTER CCLXXXVIII. To Monsieur d' Hemery.

AFter having discours'd Monsieur de Palluau, about the Pas­sages of his Voyage, and seen your Letter which he brought, I cannot but tell you, that I am extreamly ama­zed at the little Esteem which Madam has hitherto testified of the good Advice, which the King and his most faithful Ser­vants have given her, since they have no other end, but her Peace and [...]vanta [...]e, and the Establishment of her Authority and Grandeur. Her Inconstancy, concerning the removal of Fa­ther Monod, has been a manifest proof of it; which surprized me the more, because she knows the best of any, the mortal Hatred he has against her and her Children, and his insepa­rable Union with the Cardinal of Savoy, and Prince Thomas, her Enemies. His Majesty thinks it very strange, that Ma­dam having declared to all his Ministers, that she did not desire that he should have any thing to do in her Affairs, yet she still continues to imploy him; he firmly believes, that she only retains him, because she knows, that he is an Enemy to her and her State, that she may make the whole World be­lieve, that her Highness fears France more than her Brothers-in-law; which may produce very mischievous Effects, Madam being not ignorant of the extraordinary Passion that the said Father makes appear, upon all occasions, for the Interest of tho [...]e Gentlemen, and the Ill-will which he has always bore [Page 311] her and hers, must be assured, if she continue him in the Au­thority, into which his Artifice and Malice has screw'd him at her Court, having such a turbulent Spirit, being an open Ac­complice of the Cardinal, knowing the Humour of the People, and Madam's Weakness, the first Sickness that shall happen to her, without expecting the Extremity or the Event, he will send for the said Prince Cardinal into Piedmont, from whence she will not be able afterward to expel him, and the Life of her, her Children and Creatures will not be secure.

She may very well judge, that his Majesty is not concern'd what Ministers she imploys, provided they love her and her Children; but it concerns him very much, that she do not employ those who give her bad Counsel, and endeavour to perswade her to her own Ruin, or to procure it unknown to her, because, in this case, his Majesty knows not how to reme­dy it.

These Considerations afflict his Majesty more than I can ex­press, because he foresees that such Proceedings will either make him unable to protect a Person so dear to him as Madam, or will compel him, against his desire, to discharge himself of her Protection, that he may not be the Promoter of an Evil which she may avoid.

You may believe, that his Majesty, loving Madam as him­self, will not come to this extreamity; but yet he cannot en­dure to see, that her Highness will ruin herself, against all Rea­son, his Advice and Counsel, and notwithstanding any As­sistance that he can give her.

His Majesty can have no confidence in Madam in her Af­fairs, while she shall have a Minister, who is a sworn Enemy to France, to his Majesty, and his particular Servants; who is the Cardinal of Savoy's intimate Friend, and Ally of the Spa­niards, who, by his means, will be inform'd of all the Under­taking, and Resolutions; it is a thing altogether unpossible. And I confess to you freely, that the open Protection that Madam gives to Father Monod, since the Resolution she took to remove him, afflicts the King extreamly, and makes him judge, and not without reason, that her Mind is not only wa­vering, but also distrustful of France; which they expresly endeavour to make her, that they may more easily procure her and her Childrens ruine; which is, as it were, inevitable, if she continue in her jealousie and diffidence. Tho' this good Father testifie, that he imparts to you alone, the Resolution that was taken to send him into France, yet, for all this, he is not ignorant, that it was with Madam's and Count Philippes's [Page 312] participation; and so, seeing himself offended by both, he will infallibly seek an opportunity to revenge himself; which he will do the more boldly, because he will believe, that he owes his Re-establishment to his own Industry and Artifice, and not to Madam's Goodness, whom he will never forgive.

As to what remains, Madam having obliged you to declare against him, she is too just to desire you, and France to have any confidence in him; he is a Serpent which she cannot keep in her Bosom, without receiving suddenly a mortal Sting. The Duke of Savoy knew him so well, that he was resolved, as Madam declared to you, to remove him from Court.

You know the Advice he gave us of the Intelligence this good Father had with Father Caussin, the good Designs of the one, which were at last discover'd, obliged the King to ba­nish him from Court. Madam may well judge what those of the other oblige her to do, because he has as much Wit and Malice, as Father Caussin has Simplicity and Ignorance.

Before Madam had acquainted Father Monod, that she knew his mischi [...]vous Designs, it was free for her to endure him; but now, that he knows that she has a mind to be rid of him, and that he only expects the moment of the execution of such a Project, she may very well believe, that he thinks of no­thing more than to prevent her, and yet necessity obliges her to accomplish her intended Design, if she will not expose her­self to a certain Ruine.

It is your part faithfully to represent all these things to Ma­dam, to whom you may shew this Letter, and to importune her, for her own Childrens sake, to remove that Man as soon as she can, having no time to lose upon such occasions; her Fore [...]ight, by the help of your Advice, will give her an Ex­pedient how to execute this Design.

As for my part, I think the shortest way will be, to take him in the Evening, when the Streets are clear, and put him in a Coach with Six Horses, and drive him all the Night to Pignerol, with what Guard you shall think necessary. I confess to you, I tremble for fear, for Madam, till that is done; and tell you further, that the King is mightily displeas'd to see, that Madam dallies in an Affair in which her safety is con­cern'd; and that, if her Highness will help herself, he will double his Assistance; whereas, if she has a mind to ruin her­self, he will be gl [...]d, that the World knows, that he has omit­ted nothing to hinder her. I hope that will never happen, and that her Highness will shew, that she has a Masculine Heart. I [Page 313] shall have the same Passion for her Interest, as for the King's, and shall rejoice if I can be serviceable to her.

She has done me the honour to write to me two Letters, by which she declares her Desires of a General or Particular Sus­pension. I pray you represent to her, That as a General Peace, or Suspension, would be the Safety of Christendom, so a Par­ticular one would be its Ruin: The Peace, which it may be she should have a Year sooner than otherwise she would, gi­ving opportunity to the Spaniards better to manage their Af­fairs against us, weakning that on which alone her Protection depends, would, in the end, ruin her; whereas, by making a good War this Year on every side, by God's assistance, at the end of the following Campagn, we shall see the Establishment of a General Peace. Let Madam secure the inward Parts of her State, and never trouble herself about the rest. We send to her Highness the Sieur de Vignolles, whom she desired: Re­concile him with Count Philippes. I have particularly charged him to make use of him in Madam's Service, as he will do faith­fully.

You judge very well, that the King can never think of an Accommodation with the Cardinal of Savoy, if he think of re-entring into the Protection of France; which his Majesty will certainly keep for Cardinal Anthony. It is very probable, that whatsoever Accommodation the said Cardinal will make, it is only to deceive better, and that it will be by the consent of the Spaniards. Yet his Majesty would run that hazard, if the Matter in dispute were to restore him the Pension of An­che and the Abby of St. John of the Vineyards, provided that he depart from the Protection of France, and oblige him­self to live at Rome. But methinks, that this seeming that he makes, is only to amuze Madam, and when he shall conclude such a Treaty, it will only be to impose upon her.

I forgot to write to you one of the principal things to which you must presently apply yourself; which is, to send the Pro­ject which you and Mareschal Crequi shall make of that which ought to be done, to carry on the offensive War the next Cam­pagn, it being a certain thing, that there must be a War. You must inform us How, in what Place, and what Troops you must have, and what Recruits, what we must give for this purpose, at what Time we must send them, and the Fund that you will need for that Affair. I pray you send me a very large State of these things, that we may immediately apply ourselves to provide what is necessary. As it is necessa­ry that nothing be omitted in this State which is useful, I be­seech [Page 314] you to let nothing be superfluous, that the difficulty of supplying you with those things which may be let alone, may not hinder us from satisfying you with Necessaries.

I do not recommend to you, to keep your Designs of War very secret, till Madam has taken care of the Affair of Father Monod, because he would inform the Enemies of them, since also I presuppose that Affair to be done; for otherwise the King will be rather obliged to recal his Troops out of Piedmont, than to send others thither.

Since the writing of this Letter, the Marquess of St. Mo­rice came to see me, who told me, that he was charged by Madam, to ask my Opinion of Father Monod, and in what esteem he is with the King. To which I answered him con­formably to your desires; letting him know, that his Majesty could have no confidence in a Person, who so openly favoured those who acted against Madam: I tell you in two words what I represented to him at large.

The First Letter. To Monsieur d' Hemecy.

THOUGH I am not ignorant that M. Bouthillier has long since acquainted yee with the King's dislike of the Sieur de Lizè, the Duke of Savoy's Resident in England's Conduct, and how his Pro­ceeding in that Court, and his ill will to­ward France are prejudicial to his Majesty's Affairs, as al­so to those of his Highness, I cannot however forbear wri­ting to you, to give you notice of it; that so by your Prudence you may apply such a Remedy to it, as you shall think most proper. In my Opinion, it would be for the service of Monsieur of Savoy to recall that Person as soon as might be, unless his Highness would have his Majesty believe that he Acts by his Orders, and that he [Page 2] connives at the ill Offices done to his Majesty, since his Agent has been in England. You may speak of it if you please to the D. of Savoy, as of a thing which the King is so much the more deeply sensible of, because there is no body who hears the said Lizè talk, who does not think it strange, that a Minister of one of the principal Allies of France, and who is engag'd with her in a War against her Enemies, should maintain Discourses so disadvantagious to her Af­fairs, instead of upholding her Interests, and rejoicing at her Successes.

Moreover I am oblig'd to let you know, that the said Lizè is a Man so weak in his Intellectuals, and of a Judg­ment so feeble, that he takes whatever is reported to him for truth without distinction, never examining whether there be any foundation, or only the appearance of truth in what is told him. Which is the Reason, that many times taking the Shadow for the substance, instead of ser­ving his Master, while he thinks to advance 'em, he does a manifest prejudice to his Interests. In a word, seeing that his Residence in England cannot but prove very pre­judicial to the King, it must be our Business to perswade Monsieur of Savoy to re-call him home, which I conjure you to make your Business with your wonted Dexterity. Which not doubting but that you will effectually labour, I shall urge yee no farther; having no more at this time, then only to assure yee, that

LETTER II. To the same Person.

SOme of M. de Crequi's friends having inform'd me that several Persons in Italy, either out of Hatred or En­vy, talk very much to his Disadvantage, and endeavou­red by their Discourses to perswade the World, that the King, and his principal Servants, are dissatisfied with his Carriage and his Actions, on purpose utterly to disgrace him, and thereby deprive him of the means to serve his Majesty so effectually as he desires. I have therefore written to yee, to let you understand how much I am displeas'd with such Proceedings as these; and to conjure yee, by [Page 3] your prudence to put a stop to their farther Progresses, with the same diligence, undeceiving those who may have gi­ven credit to such Reports, and giving 'em assurance of the falshood of 'em. In short, I can ascertain yee, that as the King has had no cause at all, that I know of, to be dissatisfied with M. de Crequi, so he never testify'd the least sign of his Displeasure. As for my particular, you will do me an extraordinary kindness to let him know the E­steem which I have of his Person, of his Affection, and his Courage; the Desire which I have, and shall always have, to serve him; and that you will declare the same thing to the Officers of the Army.

LETTER III. To the same Person.

I Have desir'd my Lords, the Secretaries of State, to ac­quaint you from time to time with what passes on this side, well knowing, by Experience, that it is no small trouble to those who are far remote from the Court, as you are, when they want Intelligence, and are not duly inform'd of the State of Affairs, and how the World goes. They have promis'd me, not to omit any oppor­tunity.

LETTER IV. To the Prince of Orange, after the Raising of the Siege of Louvaine.

THere are not any Great Affairs that are not attend­ed with great Difficulties; nor had this at the be­ginning those progresses which we could have desir'd; since it is the end that crowns the work.

Monsieur Charnacè has represented to the King the Ob­stacles which you met with in your Enterprize, and your Endeavours to surmount 'em. His Majesty is very well convinc'd of the care you took for the subsistance of his [Page 4] Army, in the midst of those necessities which surrounded it. He returns you Thanks, and promises himself that you will make so good a use of the remainder of the Summer, that the time which has been lost shall be repair'd with Advantage, in the Judgment of all Men.

I passionately desire it for the Interest of his Majesty, and of my Lords, the States, and for your own, which shall be always dear to me: Conjuring you to believe, that whatever the issue may be, it shall never cancel the Esteem which I have for your Person, nor the Affection which I bear you. Assure your self, Sir, that his Majesty will leave nothing omitted that lies in his power to fa­vour the Enterprize, which was only undertaken between him and my Lords, the States, for the Good and Repose of Christendom, and that no ill success shall discourage him. For my part, knowing that perseverance is that which crowns affaires with a prosperous Issue, I shall omit nothing that is requir'd for me to do, for the advancement of those Affairs, the Success of which depends upon your Conduct, in which the King reposes a great Confidence. Of this you may be assur'd, Sir; as also, that

LETTER V. From the King to the States of Holland, up­on Occasion of the Title of Highness given to the Prince of Orange.

MOst Dear, Great Friends, Allies and Confederates, the particular Esteem which We have, and always had, for our most dear and well beloved Cousin, the Prince of Orange, not only by reason of his Birth and Fa­mily, the Grandeur of which is sufficiently known, but also for his Great and conspicuous Qualities, and his No­ble performances in the Conduct and Command of Ar­mies, whereby he has acquir'd so high a Reputation, that there are no Marks of Honour which may not be justly attributed to him, have engag'd us to give him new proofs of it, by Honouring him with one more Title then hi­therto has been Address'd to him, concerning which we [Page 5] have sent express Orders to the Sieur Charnacè, Our Am­bassador.

LETTER VI. From Cardinal Richlieu to the Prince of Orange.

THe King's Letter which will be deliver'd to your hands by M. de Charnacè, and what he has in charge to say to yee in his Majesty's Name, will give you so particularly to understand the Affection which he has for your Person, and the singular Esteem which he pays to your Vertue and your Merit, that it would be su­perfluous to repeat it in these Lines. And therefore I shall only testifie to yee my own particular and extraor­dinary Joy, for the new Title wherewith his Majesty has been pleas'd to honour your whole Family: now then, that I may conform my self to his Will, and follow my own Inclination, be pleas'd that I may begin the change, and that I may assure your Highness, that honouring yee as I do, it will be a greater favour then I can possibly ex­press to serve your Highness, and all yours, upon all oc­casions; and to let you know by the Effects, that there is no person in the World, that can be with a greater Passi­on or more Sincerity, then my self, &c.

LETTER VII. To the Princess of Orange.

I Have not Written these Lines to let you understand the particular Affection which the King has for the Person of Monsieur the Prince of Orange, and for yours, and the singular esteem which he has for both, by reason the Testimonies which his Majesty has given you in the Letter which his Majesty has Written to yee, and what M. Charnacè has to say to yee in his Majesty's Name, are such, in my Opinion, as will not permit you to doubt of [Page 6] it; but only to acquaint you with my extraordinary Joy, for the honour which it has pleas'd his Majesty to con­fer upon your whole Family, by the new Title where­with it is his pleasure that you shall be treated from this time forward; I beseech yee to believe, that no Content or Felicity that befalls his Highness can be so great, but that I still wish him more; and that there is no person who Honours his Vertue and his Merit so highly as I do, or who is more sincerely then

LETTER VIII. To the Princess of Orange, with a present of Diamond Pendants, in the King's Name.

THe King's Command engages me to take Pen in Hand, to entreat you in his Name to accept a Pre­sent no otherwise worthy of you, then as it receives its value from the person that sends it. The common Ene­mies of this Kingdom, and the United Provinces not be­ing able to do us any mischief but through the Ears, his Majesty made choice of this Present, such as it is, on pur­pose, not only to signifie to yee, that he will never hear­ken to any thing that shall be to the Prejudice of the Common Good; but also to let you know that he assures himself, that your Highness and Monsieur the Prince of Orange will do the same on your parts. For my part, Madam, I shall account my self extreamly happy, if I can but meet with ways and means equal to the Passion I have, to let you know by the effects, that

LETTER IX. Cardinal Richlieu to the Queen, upon the Birth of Monseigneur the Dauphin.

EXcessive Joys are generally mute: This is the reason that I cannot express to your Majesty my Joy for your happy Delivery, and the Birth of the Dauphin. I desire, and am willing to belive that God has bestow'd him up­on Christendom, to appease the Troubles that disorder it, and to restore to it the Blessing of Peace. This has been my Prayer to Heaven since his Birth, which I make with the same passionate Zeal as I have always had for the King and your Majesty, to whom

LETTER X. To the Queen, who had sent the Dauphin 's Portraiture to his Eminency.

I Cannot render those Returns of thanks which are due to your Majesty for the favour you have been pleas'd to do me, in sending me the Portraiture of Monseigneur the Dauphin, whose Image I Reverence, as I shall his Person, as long as I live. I pray to God, that they who shall come after me, may serve him as faithfully, as I have al­ways endeavour'd to serve the King, his Father, and your Majesty, to whom

LETTER XI. To the Archbishop of Bourdeaux.

YOu will do me an Injury, to believe that any Alli­ance is capable to hinder me from assisting and ser­ving yee, when you have a [...] occasion for it. My Hu­mour is so far from any such manner of proceeding, that I believe that such a thought can never enter into the mind of any person whatsoever. I most earnestly desire to see a good Correspondence betwen M. d' Espernon and you; I dare promise it between my Lords his Sons. And though I am not ignorant, that it is a difficult thing for them that are harden'd in their Humour by Age to alter it, yet I am not out of hopes to see a good issue of what I desire. I beg of you to contribute towards it what lies in your power, assuring you that whoever shall have most Reason and Justice on his side, in the Differences which after this time may happen between yee, shall be the per­son whom I will serve most candidly. I believe that my assistance will not be very necessary to any body, but I find my self oblig'd to offer it to him that has the bet­ter cause. Assure your self of my Friendship for ever; and be convinc'd that nothing can alter the Quality of, &c.

LETTER XII. To the same Person.

I Am extreamly glad that M. d' Espernon has made Re­stitution to the Church of what is her due, in order to repair the Injury which she receiv'd in your Person, and that it is now known to all the World, that there is no consideration that can hinder me from favouring so just a Cause as yours was, according to the intentions of a King so Pious, as his Majesty is known to be. The Ab­bot of Coursan acquainted me with every particular that past in that Affair; if that be true (of which I have not had the leisure yet to ascertain my self) that you have [Page 9] not pursu'd his Holiness's intentions, signify'd to you by his Briefs, I must needs tell you, that you would have done better, had you done otherwise. In the Name of God, regulate your Actions and your Words in such a manner, that there may be no objection to be made against your Behaviour. You know how many times I have ad­monish'd you to be careful of the quickness of your Wit, and the nimbleness of your Tongue. As it was always my fear, that those two Enemies were the greatest you had, I must confess that I am more affraid of 'em now then ever, and conjure yee to be more reserv'd for the love of your self, assuring you, that I give so little heed to what the said Abbot inform'd me, of your being transported in your passion to reflect upon me, that 'tis no considerati­on of my self which enclines me to give you this Advice. The Justice that has been done you in your Business makes the King's Piety so clearly manifest, and the assistance of my Friends, that he must have lost his Judgment, who thinks there can be any bad impression made either of the one or the other. Never were Sentences more Authen­tick then those which his Holiness and the King's Coun­cil pronounc'd upon this Difference, and he cannot be master of himself, who says, that they were ever chang'd. Therefore, seeing such Discourses would but do you an Injury, many others which you are said to give out some­times would bring a Reproach upon your Gratitude; which, in my Opinion, ought not to permit you to com­plain of Fortune, who has done for you, from your early Youth, what she does not usually do for others, till after long Time spent in tedious Services. Were I not really your Friend, I would not talk to you in this manner: But being desirous to continue the same as I have always been, I find my self oblig'd to what I do, because that several Per­sons not knowing yee so well as I do, will not so easily ex­cuse what I believe proceeds from Vanity, rather then from any other evil Cause. I promise my self therefore, that your Carriage will be such as your Friends ought to desire it, and as I particularly wish it may be;

LETTER XIII. To the same Person.

YOU will know more News by the Abbot of Coursa [...], then I can write to yee: He brings yee all the Satis­faction you can desire. M. d'Espernon will receive Absolu­tion at your hands, will visit yee, will give yee the Right Hand at his own House, when you repay him his Visits: He will engage himself to build the Chappel within the Time limited by Cardinal Bichi: You shall have your De­cree which you have so earnestly desired, as a Mark of the Satisfaction which the King has order'd to be given yee: So that there is nothing more in Reason for yee to desire. I am willing to believe that M. d'Espernon will very honest­ly perform whatever is requisite upon this Occasion: But tho' he should not, I desire yee so to demean your self, that the World may be convinc'd there is no Fault on your part. I conjure yee also, for the future, to take such Care of your Actions, that whatever happens, the Wrong may not be laid at your Door; assuring you, provided that Equity and Right be on your side, that you shall have no less Assistance from me, then hitherto you have had. Of this you may be convinc'd, and that

LETTER XIV. To the same Person.

I know not how to testifie my Sorrow to you, for that there is nothing as yet done in order to the Attack which ought to have been made upon the Islands, after the Waste of so much Time and Money. The Mischief is, that they who have no Kindness for you, lay the great­est part of the Blame upon your self; which afflicts me be­yond what I am able to express, as well in respect of the Interest of the King's Service, as for the Share which I [Page 11] take in all your Concerns. For this Reason, as your Friend, I cannot forbear telling you, that as Relapses render Sick­nesses more grievous, so if, after having fail'd to attack the Islands, you neglect the Relief of Parma; now that that there is no body who is able, as you pretend, to ob­struct your Enterprize, all your Friends together will not be able to defend you from the Blame that will be imputed to you upon this second Default. For this Reason it is, that I conjure you, as much as in me lies, to attempt Im­possibilities upon this Occasion, to the end you may repair what has been done amiss; assuring you, that I will make the best of this Action to the King, as much as you can desire from a Person who is really as

LETTER XV. To the Bishop of Marscilles.

HAving understood the Trouble to which your Grand Vicar puts the Carmelites of the Convent of the Ci­ty of Marseilles in reference to their Privileges, and his Ri­gour towards the Prioress governing the said Nuns, I have sent you this Letter to intreat you to put a Stop to the Vicar's Proceedings, and hinder him from dealing with 'em so severely: which I do with so much the more Affection, be­cause that Order having been under my Protection over since the Death of Cardinal Berule, it would be a hard Case that I should suffer those good Souls to be vex'd and turmoil'd with undeserv'd everities. I make no question but you will apply all requisite Moderation, as well for the Glory of God, as for the Repose of the said Nuns, who desire to live under the same Laws and Rules with those of the Con­vent of Paris, and other places; and also to enjoy the same Priviledges. I promise my self, that you will carefully lend your helping hand in this Affair. Confident of this, I shall conclude this Letter; assuring you, that

LETTER XVI. To the Bishop of St. Papoul.

THE King having cast his Eyes upon your Person, in Consideration of the many good Qualities which he observes there met together, with a Design to gratifie you with the Bishoprick of St. Papoul, which has been va­cant for some time, I could no longer delay to give you notice of it; and at the same time to let you know, as I do by these Lines, my own particular Satisfaction to see your Merits acknowledg'd by so great an Honour. I as­sure my self, that your Demeanour in this Charge where­with it has pleased His Majesty to honour you, will give him an Occasion to make a diligent Search through all the Corners of his Provinces for other Persons, whose Repu­tation may equal yours. In the mean time, I beseech yee to be cocvinc'd that I shall always most sincerely wish your Content, as being really as much as you can desire, &c.

LETTER XVII. To the Bishop of Sens.

THE Esteem which the King has of your Person is such, that His Majesty knowing the Bishoprick which you have hitherto held, is much below your Merit, has been pleas'd to give you Proofs of his good Will, by Translating you to that of Cahors, which you know to be much better then yours that you must surrender into his hands. I was extreamly glad to have the Opportunity, in giving you notice of this Favour in His Majesty's Name, to let you know at the same time my own particular Joy for the Favour which it has pleas'd His Majesty to confer upon yee; and to assure yee, that you can never have more Con­tent, or greater Preferment then I wish you,

LETTER XVIII. To the Bishop of Nismes.

I Was very glad to hear News of yee, by the Letter which you wrote me; and by the Abbot of St. Mars, to un­derstand the Beginning of the happy Progress you are ma­king in the place where you are, for the Good of Religion. I always believ'd that you would effectually answer the Choice which His Majesty made of your Person; and ful­fil your Promises, not to let the Talents that God has given you lie idle, but to employ 'em upon all Occasions for the Advantage of his Worship. I cannot express my Joy for so good a Beginning; nevertheless, you may conceive it by the singular Affection which I bear you. Only, I must conjure yee to reside continually in your Diocess, as hitherto you have done; and to believe that you can do nothing either more agreeable to His Majesty, or more to my Content; as it will be always my greatest Satisfaction to serve you upon all Occasions; and to let you know how much

LETTER XIX. To the Archbishop of Rouan.