THE First BOOK.

Frederick Maurice de la Tour d' Auvergne, was Son of Henry de la Tour d' Auvergne, Duke of Bouillon, Sovereign of Sedan, by Isabella of Nassau.

IT would be unnecessary for me to speak of the House of the Duke of Bouillon: All France knows, That both for its Antiquity, and the Grandeur of its Original, it is one of the most Illustrious among the Chief Families in the Kingdom: And Strangers are well e­nough inform'd of it by their frequent Allian­ces with the Principal Families of Europe, and by the Sovereignties of Bouillon and Sedan, which fell into it in the last Age.

I shall say but very little likewise of the Duke de Bouillon, during his Minority, because I have not so exact Memoirs, as I could have desired, and I will advance nothing, which I have not seen, or am very well assured of.

He compleated his Studies at Sedan, where Mr. du Moulin, the Minister, was his Tutour; a Man very much esteem'd for his Learning. He bred him up in the Reformed Religion, the [Page 6] Duke, his Father, and his Mother, being both Protestants. His first Journey from thence, was into Holland, when he was about sixteen Years old. This Countrey was then the Seat of War, and in the Opinion of all the World, the best School to learn that Art in.

His Uncle, the Prince of Orange, who was esteemed one of the greatest Generals of his Time, made him begin with a Colours in the Regiment of Maison-Neuve.

I have heard say, That, at first, there appear­ed little extraordinary in him, and that indeed he was something slow in displaying himself. He spoke little, kept himself reserv'd, and among his own Domesticks. But at last he made him­self sufficiently known, and gain'd a great Re­putation, as soon as he began to have some Un­derstanding in the Affairs of War, and the Countrey. This show'd, That his Silence, and Inclination to so peculiar a Reservedness, pro­ceeded only from his extraordinary Natural Parts, which would not suffer him to speak of things without understanding them.

He then became Curious to that degree, that he was inquisitive about ev'ry thing, and search­ed into the Niceties of the smallest Matters, that he might know 'em throughly. But in sa­tisfying his Curiosity, he never apply'd himself, but to such Persons with whom he was most fa­miliar. He then permitted himself to make a small sally towards the Pleasures of Youth; and, amongst the rest, that of frequent Entertain­ments, in which, though He was always mag­nificent, yet it was without Excess.

[Page 7] In a short time he became active and vigilant, and familiar even to Popularity, when it suited with his Designs: a Talent, which I have seen him make an admirable Use of, in the following Course of his Life, upon very important Oc­casions.

The Prince of Orange, seeing him thus alter­ed, and finding, that he had a strong Propensity to War; began to take a little more Care, in informing him. He commanded him out, up­on all Occasions, where any thing might be learn'd, or any Honour gain'd. The Duke de Bouillon answered his Designs and Hopes with that Advantage; that I have heard him then commend him to divers Persons, for having signaliz'd his Courage and Conduct in several Encounters.

One of the most Considerable was at Boisleduc. The Prince of Orange having besieg'd it, the long Resistance, which the Garrison made, had so weakned and dispirited his Army, that, not thinking himself able to hinder a Convoy, which the Enemy were sending, from entring the Town; there was a Resolution taken secret­ly in the Council to raise the Siege. The Duke of Bouillon having Notice of it, earnestly re­quested, That he might be permitted to go and encounter this Convoy. He laid before the Prince of Orange the Methods, by which he would be guided in this Design. The Prince finding they had been extreamly well contriv'd, propos'd 'em to the Council, where it was re­solv'd, That the Event of 'em should be try'd. In Pursuance of this, the Duke took such Troops as he had demanded; He led them, by an ex­traordinary [Page 8] March, to find the Enemy in a place where he had projected before to fight 'em, because it was very advantagious to himself. There he attack'd 'em, defeated 'em, took their Commander Prisoner, and brought the Convoy, which was design'd for the Relief of the Place, into the Prince of Orange's Camp.

This Action rais'd the Duke to a great Repu­tation, and began to make him look'd upon as an Extraordinary Man. He gain'd the Hearts of the Soldiery, by the Opinion they conceived of his Courage, and his great Genius for Warlike Affairs; but more especially by that Natural Goodness which appear'd in all his Actions, by his Modesty, in speaking of himself, and his Fa­miliarity, when he did not command them. He had a good Mien, but could not be said to be handsome. He was proper, had a high Fore­head, his Eyes full and sparkling; Eye-brows large and thick, but at a convenient distance. There was nothing rough either in his Mind or Humour; yet something great and fierce both in his Air and Tread. He knew even the smal­lest Officers, and, that they might not be igno­rant of it, he affected to call 'em by their Names: a way of treating Inferiours, very po­litick and becoming a great Lord.

The States General, and those of the Pro­vince, could not long continue silent in his Prai­ses, which we may look upon as the more sin­cere, because they grounded them upon their own glory and advantage; for this incident caus'd Boisleduc to be Surrendred, which was a place very important to them, and added much to the reputation of their Arms. They began [Page 9] to reward the Services of the Duke of Bouillon with the Government of Mastricht, which they gave him. The Prince of Orange show'd great satisfaction in all these Proceedings, though per­haps he wou'd not have beheld 'em without un­easiness and jealousy, if they had not rais'd thoughts in him suitable to his own Interests. He was now very old, and had but one Son, and he in the Cradle, so that not hoping to be able to live long enough to see him of a sufficient Age to fill his Place, and finding all People well af­fected to the Duke of Bouillon, he look'd upon him as a Man in whose hands he might deposite the Government of the States upon his own De­cease; and to link him still more closely to him than he was already by his Relation, as a Ne­phew, he resolv'd to make him his Son-in-Law, but he thought it Prudence to wait another op­portunity to declare this to him.

Things stood in this condition, when in Car­nival time, the Troops being in Winter Quar­ters, the Duke of Bouillon would go incognito to see Brussells. This Journey which he undertook at first as a thing indifferent, only for diversion, and to satisfy his Curiosity, did afterwards change the whole Scheme of his Fortune, and by a train of accidents became the source of all the happi­ness and misfortunes of his Life. So that it is every day apparent, that the Fate of the greatest Men and most flourishing States, turns upon things which at first view seem of no consequence, and we often find, that if that which we ardently de­sire had happen'd, we should be miserable; whereas all our happiness often proceeds from this, That the things we are afraid of come to [Page 10] pass in spight of us. Notwithstanding all this, we never leave projecting, and attributing the good success to our selves, though we are often ignorant of the Causes, and can never foresee the effects. If to such evident demonstrations of our Vanity, and the weakness of our Understand­ings, we do but add those thoughts which we ought to have as good Christians, we should un­doubtedly show more Courage when we ly un­der unhappy Circumstances, because we should see the hand of God in them: and we should have less uneasiness while our designs are depending, because we should never frame any but with an entire submission to the Disposal of Provi­dence.

One of the most splendid Courts in Europe, was at Brussels, when the Duke of Bouillon came thither. The Duke of Orleans had retreated thither, and had been follow'd by some Persons of the first Quality in the Kingdom, and a great Number of the Nobility. The Infanta Isabella likewise had drawn thither the Principal Families of the Low Countries, of which she was Governess. Here it was, That the Duke of Bouillon saw Madamoiselle de Bergh, at a Ball. She was a Person of great Birth, of a surprizing Beauty, had the Reputation of much Wit and Prudence, but a Catholick, and without any For­tune. The Duke of Bouillon having learn'd her Name, found that she was his Relation; but there was a Motive, stronger than that of Blood, which made him ambitious of being known to her before his Departure. The Visits which he made her, engag'd him still farther. However he departed, without speaking of the Impressi­on [Page 11] she had made upon his Soul, though she easi­ly perceiv'd it. The Report of this Passion, was soon spread in Holland, by those who had born him Company to Brussels: and because no one could imagine that it would come to a Mar­riage, for abundance of Reasons, which destroy­ed the very Thoughts of such a thing; People spoke of it only as the Adventure of a Travel­ler, and that before his Face. But soon after he return'd to Brussels, in very great danger, and upon a slight Pretence. This second Jour­ney, made it apparent, That the Duke was more in Love, than he was thought to be. At his Arrival he found a Discourse of a Match be­tween Madamoiselle de Bergh, and the Count de Bossu. Honour and Jealousie join'd themselves with Love, and forc'd the Duke to declare his Designs of Marriage. He return'd by the way of Sedan, to propose it to the Dutchess his Mo­ther. But she was the more averse to it, be­cause she knew her Brother, the Prince of Orange, had design'd him for one of his Daughters, who was afterwards married to the Elector of Bran­denburgh: Besides his Mother had always resolv'd he should marry one of her own Religion, and indeed he might have had his Choice of any Pro­testant Lady in France, nor had he been a Match below any Foreigner.

Upon his Return to Holland, the Prince of Orange, and his real Friends, us'd all their En­deavours to perswade him from this Marriage, and he, having Spirit and Ambition enough, often attack'd himself with very potent Arguments. But these contributed only to his Uneasiness: For when Absence and Difficulties cann't efface [Page 12] the first Impressions of Love, they render the Passion so strong, That nothing can be able to change it.

When the Duke of Bouillon had continued a­bout a Year in this Condition; his Mind in su­spence, and his Soul divided, by the Opposition which his Love made to his Fortune; he at last fix'd his Resolution, and the Dutchess his Mo­ther, and the Prince of Orange, having not been able to hinder the Marriage, were forced to approve it, when it was consummated. Love has often made the greatest Men neglect the Ad­vantages which Fortune has offer'd them, and that in a much riper Age than the Duke of Bou­illon was yet arriv'd to. I shall speak but one Word in his Favour, and to the Honour of his Dutchess, That I verily believe he never repen­ted his having married her. The Duke having tarried some time at Sedan, whither he immedi­ately carried his Lady, went with her into Hol­land, and there Beauty and Merit gain'd so far the Ascendant, That every one approv'd the Choice, which they had before so much con­demned.

From the Hague the Duke de Bouillon went to Mastricht, to give his Orders, as Governour, and afterwards returned to Sedan, with a Design to tarry there some time. His first business was, to gain an exact Insight into his own Concerns, which he effected with the greater Ease, because never Man did things in better Order. This ap­peared even in the smallest Matters: It was not in his Power to look over 'em superficially, as Persons of Quality generally do, who think it a Vertue, to place a blind Confidence in their [Page 13] Servants, and never perceive their own Ruine, till it is past Remedy: As for him, he saw and examined all, yet without that Spirit of Mean­ness, by some call'd good Husbandry, into which Men often fall by too great Exactness: so near to one another are Vertues and their opposite Vices.

But as for these lesser Affairs, they were in­stantly laid aside, when more Important Business requir'd his Attendance. He was very industri­ous, but the pains he took were never uneasie to him. He never retreated at the Prospect of any Labour, how great soever it might be, either of Body or Mind; but indeed he was the same in every thing; he would be so intent upon his very Diversions, that one would think he had been made to pursue them only. In private Company he had so complaisant an Air, and would relax his Mind so far, that it would then be hard to perceive his more Noble Qualities: and yet to have seen him upon some great and publick Action, one would have thought it im­possible for him to reduce himself to a private Station, though this was easie to him when-ever he thought it necessary.

His Affairs at Sedan, were not so many as to take up all his time, so he applied himself to reading, and having fallen upon Calvin's Works, his Mother was extremely pleased with it, being confident, That they would be a means to confirm him in his Religion. But when she faw, that from reading he pass'd to doubting, and from Doubts to a Desire of having them clear'd, she began to take the Alarm, especially when she was told by du Moulin, That the Duke [Page 14] had propos'd to him the holding a Conference in his Presence, with a certain Religious Person, who was thought to be very well vers'd in the Con­troversie: then she beg'd of him to relinquish that Design, and demonstrated to him both her Grief and Fears.

The Duke of Bouillon had always had a great Tenderness and Respect for his Mother, and his Fear of disobliging her, was the greater and more just, because he had so much displeas'd her with his Marriage.

These Considerations delay'd the Conference for some time, though the Duke did ardently desire it, because du Moulin had urg'd several things against the Catholick Religion, which the Duke of Bouillon was not able to answer. He spent some Months in these Circumstances, but being no longer able to lie under such Uncer­tainties, in an Affair of so great Consequence, he Resolv'd, to be plain with du Moulin, and to speak to him as his Prince. He told him then, That he would propound his Doubts in the Pre­sence of the Father he had propos'd before, and a­nother understanding Person, that he had sent for to Sedan: but he charg'd him, Not to let his Mother have any intimation of it. There were several secret Conferences held, after which the Duke was perfectly convinced of the Errours of his Perswasion. He made his Abjuration of it, but it was in private, that he might not offend his Mother; hoping, by this Management, to endeavour, in time, to bring her over to the Knowledge of the Truth. He set himself to this, with all the Application imaginable; and we may imagine he would leave nothing un­done, [Page 15] in so important an Affair, whose Success would spare him so much Trouble.

It would be too tedious for me to relate here, what pass'd after this, during the space of two Years, in which he continued to gain farther Light and more ample Instructions. I shall on­ly say this, That I believe, No Man of his Qua­lity was ever better instructed, or more perswa­ded of his Religion.

In the mean time, he receiv'd Advice, That the Spaniards were marching to Mastricht, with a Design to besiege it. He was to lose no time, but immediately to throw himself into the Town. He departed the same moment, but found it invested. How-ever, by good Fortune, he got in, though not without Danger. He defen­ded it with a great deal of Bravery, and signa­liz'd himself by frequent Sallies: so that the Prince of Orange having gain'd time to join his Troops; and to march; the Enemy, upon his Approach, immediately rais'd the Siege.

In this Place the Duke of Bouillon met with Beringuan, for whom he had a great Esteem and Friendship. He was a Man of Worth: Car­dinal Richlieu had banish'd him, because he was in favour with Lewis the XIII th. and because He had not only a great deal of Loyalty, but as much Bravery and Conduct.

The Duke of Bouillon made him the Confident of his Abjuration; and withal, told him, That to the present minute he had kept it as a great Secret, because of the Dutchess his Mother; but that, seeing (though not without extreme Concern) neither Time, nor any thing else that he could do, would retrieve her from her [Page] [...] [Page] [...] [Page] [...] [Page] [...] [Page 1] [...] [Page 2] [...] [Page 3] [...] [Page 4] [...] [Page 5] [...] [Page 6] [...] [Page 7] [...] [Page 8] [...] [Page 9] [...] [Page 10] [...] [Page 11] [...] [Page 12] [...] [Page 13] [...] [Page 14] [...] [Page 15] [...] [Page 16] Errours, he was upon the point of declaring himself to her, and professing publickly the Ca­tholick Religion, when he receiv'd the News, That the Enemy was marching to Mastricht. He added, That there was but one onely Reason, which could possibly induce him to delay it longer, which was his Suspicion, lest in the pre­sent Conjuncture, the News of his Abjuration might raise some Jealousies in the States and Prince of Orange; but that, as soon as he should come to Sedan, he would declare, and send them a Resignation of their Government, and the Command he had in their Cavalry: which he did the first moment after his Return.

The great Affliction of his Mother, the Dutchess, cannot be express'd. Nor was the Grief and Indignation of the whole Family any less. The City of Sedan, inhabited by Prote­stants, chang'd the Love they bore him into a se­cret Hatred. He lost all his Posts in Holland, and renounc'd his greatest Expectations. In short, upon the sole Respect he had to his future Salvation, he resisted all humane Considerations, and pass'd by all the Advantages of his Fortune. So many great Difficulties, which he foresaw well enough, and knew they must be surmounted, might easily let us see the Vigour of his Mind, and the Grandeur of his Courage; unless the Conversion of Mens Hearts is to be attributed to God alone.

Some time after the Duke of Bouillon had de­clar'd his Abjuration, he came to Court. He knew it not, nor was he known there, but by his Reputation. His Design was to follow the Interest of France, where he had large Demesnes, [Page 17] and his chief Inclination being to War, that against Spain, which had continued some Years, seem'd to open a way both to his Glory, and his Fortunes.

The Cardinal Richlieu was then at the highest Pitch of his Grandeur. He was a great Mini­ster, who, as all others do, ow'd the beginning of his Fortune to a favourable Conjuncture, but the Settlement and Consequences of it were the Work of his own Wit and Conduct. He had always great Designs: and never troubled him­self with any, but the most important Affairs of State; that he might have more time for his Diversions and Repose. He govern'd the State with an Absolute Power, but yet without go­verning the King, who, on the contrary, hated him at the bottom. But the good success of his Administration, and the sure Establishments he had made himself; set him beyond the Effects of Hatred. However, there was always some Fa­vourite, who, not being sufficiently devoted to him, still gave occasion to Cabals in the Court, and the Intriegues of the Closet: and these, join'd with the fresh Example of the Death of Marshall d' Ancre, caus'd great Disquietness to him. He spar'd nothing to gain Persons of Merit over to him, or to ruine 'em, when he could not gain them. And no Minister was ever better infor­med of what pass'd both within and without the Kingdom. Should one judge of him by his Countenance, and outward Appearance, nothing could be expected but an extraordinary Sweet­ness. Whereas he was violent in all his Desires; and Love and Hatred never had a fuller power over a great Man, to make him act as they plea­sed. [Page 18] Many of the most considerable Incidents of his Life, had one or other of these two Passions for their Foundation. He was very sensible of Friend­ship, but never pardon'd a declared Enmity. So his Ministry was terrible to Persons that were not in his Interests. For as those he confided in might aspire to any thing, so there was nothing but what his Enemies had Reason to be afraid of. All the great Lords that would not submit to him were in Prison, banished, or out of fa­vour. In short, either forc'd by the necessity of the times, or his own Nature, he always chose rather to establish the Security of his Person and Fortune by Rigour and Blood, than to run the hazard of good Nature and Clemency.

The Duke of Bouillon made no long stay at Paris. He was well receiv'd by the King, and all the Court. The Count de Soissons visited him often, and upon all occasions treated him with a distinction, which shew'd his peculiar Esteem, and a Desire of having him for his Friend. But they parted without entring upon any matter that was considerable. The Cardinal and the Duke saw one another often, but there were such Op­positions between 'em, that it was not easie to link 'em in any strait Union.

The Cardinal was for none but such as were wholly devoted to him: and the Duke of Bouillon was not made for Servitude; he was born a Sove­reign, and had pass'd his Life in a free Country. Besides, the Commands in the Army were full, which were the only Things that could oblige him. So he return'd, having only a general Knowledge of the Court, and without any rea­son to praise or find fault with the Cardinal: [Page 19] but with a Mind not much disposed to comply with his way of Governing.

Some time after, the Count of Soissons retir'd to Sedan, to withdraw himself from the Effects of the Cardinal's Hatred.

Common Fame has published several things as the Causes of their Disagreement; but all the World agree, That if the Prince would have married Madam de Combalet, Niece to the Car­dinal, he had design'd things so great for him, That a Man would scarce venture to speak, and which would very hardly be believ'd.

The Duke of Bouillon dispatch'd a Gentleman to Court, to give the Cardinal advice of the Arrival of Monsieur the Count; and to intreat the King, not to take it ill, that he had afforded a Retreat to a Prince, who, he thought, had committed nothing which might displease him, and in whom he could find none but honourable Intentions of serving him.

The King approv'd the Duke of Bouillon's Conduct, and the Cardinal wrote him word, That his Majesty thought fit, that Monsieur the Count should continue at Sedan. But some time after, the Negotiations not having produc'd the Effects which the Cardinal expected from them, he would have the Duke de Bouillon abandon the Prince, and make him depart from Sedan. The Duke of Bouillon excus'd himself, and answer'd, That the King having once approv'd of the Prince's Stay there, he thought he might give his Word to him, for his undoubted Security with­out limitation of Time: That such an Engage­ment to a Prince of the Blood, did not leave him at the Liberty of proposing such a thing to [Page 20] the Count, as his Retirement: That he pray'd him to consider these Reasons, and be pleas'd to apply himself to his Majesty, to gain his Ap­probation likewise: That he hop'd the rather for this Favour from him, because he could as­sure him, That Monsieur the Count preserv'd inviolably all that Fidelity and Respect which was due from him to his Majesty: And that he saw him very much dispos'd to come sincerely to an Accommodation. In short, he was there at that time. But Monsieur the Count being weak and self-conceited, when he did not make himself stubborn by Distrust or Fear, he became so by his Vanity, and Hopes for which he could have no foundation: besides he had no Person near him that was fit for Business, which was the greater Misfortune to him; because, for the ge­nerality, even the greatest Men don't maintain their Grandeur so much by their own, as the prudent use they make of other Mens Counsels. So this Prince being thus reduc'd to the Gui­dance of his own Inclinations, was so uncertain in his Resolutions, that he never was of the same mind for two whole days together.

In the mean time, the Duke of Bouillon was not ignorant of the Consequences which might attend this refusal he had made, of ordering the Count to retire from Sedan. He knew also the Irresolution of the Prince: he thought that he had Honour and Justice on his side; and, at least, the concern he had for his own Reputati­on, was sufficient to hinder him from doing any thing that might blemish it. However it was, finding himself engag'd, and seeing his own Ru­ine at hand, he resolv'd to close with the Prince, [Page 21] to endeavour to fix him to some one design. He told him then that in the condition things were, whatever side he would take, there was no time to be lost in it; that if he would fall in with the Cardinal, he should not stay till the beginning of the Campagn, when the accommodation would become more difficult, and not so advan­tagious, or honourable, because it would seem to have been forc'd. That on the contrary, if things were past reconciliation between 'em, he must resolve upon an open War, and take mea­sures proper to maintain it. That for himself he would not counsel him on either side, not de­siring in so important an Affair to be Guarantee for its Event: That he had no reason to be dis­contented with the Court: that at present he had no manner of pretensions there: but that being resolv'd to hazard all things for his Inte­rests, it was necessary to consider what might happen in case they should take Arms: That he had not alter'd his resolutions, but on the con­trary, would confirm whatever Promises he had made him; and that he beseeched him to believe that nothing was able to stir him: But that he had no mind to let himself be Besieg'd in Sedan; that he knew a great many Troops were drawn out upon the Frontiers, and that if he would not come to Agreement with the Cardinal, he should put himself into a condition of being in the Cam­pagn as soon as ever the Season would permit.

Whether Monsieur the Count found himself this day more dispos'd to determine for War, than he was the day before; or whether he were pusht forward by the Duke's Reasons, and the renewing of his Promises, He at last assur'd him, [Page 22] that he would come to no Terms with the Car­dinal; and to shew him, that for his part he would hearken to nothing, he proposed to him a Treaty with the Emperour and the Spani­ards.

The Duke de Bouillon saw plainly, that by their Succours it was impossible to set an Army on Foot that should be able to resist the Kings, and to hinder the Siege of Sedan, or the ravaging of the Country. Nevertheless one day, that He might let the Prince recollect, that it was not he had lead him a march of so great consequence, he took occasion to lay before him all the mis­chiefs that were to be expected. It is not to be doubted, said he, but that the Emperour and the Spaniard will agree to all the Proposals, that shall be made them on our side. 'Tis their common Po­licy to agree to every thing till You are Imbarkt in their Affairs, and afterwards to stand to no­thing but what is advantagious to themselves: they will easily give some Money to begin the War, and send Troops to maintain it for the present; but afterwards they'll take care their Words and their Engagements shall be no bur­then to them; they will support us only to make Diversions, and facilitate their other designs: but their interest and ours will always be oppo­site at the bottom: It is ours to endeavour to enter France, to ruine the Fortunes of the Cardinal: we must look for our Security and advantage in a Peace, and the Establishment of a new Ministry; They on the contrary, would have our condition beyond retrieving, and this Ministry to subsist to be a perpetual Cause of di­vision and trouble, which they may work their [Page 23] ends by. But if we should be so unhappy, as to be forc'd to give our selves intirely up to them, as it must happen, if we be not succour'd from within the Kingdom, or upheld by some great Success; the War, which we have undertaken, beginning to be reduc'd to a common War, You will become a Charge to 'em, by reason of Your Quality; and when they have no Conside­ration for You, you may quickly judge whether they will have any for me.

Monsieur the Count was not shocked by all these Reasons; the fear of the Cardinal made him dread nothing else but the falling into his hands. They concerted therefore what were their pre­sent Interests, and all that they had to do: They made a double Instrument, which both of them sign'd; in which, among other things, they pro­mis'd never to treat separately. Afterwards they sent to the Emperor, and the Cardinal In­fant who commanded in Flanders for the Spani­ard. The Duke of Bouillon, for his part, sent the Baron de Beauveau, a Man of great Quality, and of a Conduct and Courage which made him always contemn Fortune, and dangers. At the same time the Duke of Guise flying likewise from the Cardinal's Persecution, came to Sedan, and finding things in this posture, desir'd, That he might enter into the same Alliances, with the Emperor and Spaniards, as the Prince, and the Duke de Bouillon. He gave Beauveau powers to treat for him: but afterwards, impatient to wait for his return, or rather push'd on by the Antipathy, which Monsieur the Count had to him, he went to Brussels, under pretence of labour­ing to further the Treaty by his presence.

[Page 24] He was a Prince well-shap'd, liberal and mag­nificent. He had a great deal of Courage, and seem'd to have as much Wit. He was then ve­ry young, and so they attributed to his Age his great Inconstancy, and several other things, which were blameable in his Conduct. But the Actions of his whole Life having been always Youthful, there is reason to believe, That at the bottom these Faults proceeded from his Na­ture, and not from his Age.

Whilst Monsieur the Count attended the Suc­cess of this Negotiation, he sent secretly into France, to endeavour to raise Money from his E­state, and to establish a Correspondence with the Cardinal's Enemies. They were strong, and in great number, but they were dejected, not only by reason of his Power, and the frequent Examples of his Revenge and Punishments: But rather, because Treachery being sure to meet with a Reward, all Confidence seem'd to be ba­nish'd from among Men: and so were absolutely perswaded, That there could be no Security in the most secret Transactions. As for the Peo­ple, they were universally dispos'd to a Revolt: for in all times, a long Ministry, let it be good or bad, will procure their Hatred, and whether it proceed from their natural Inconstancy, or their real Misery, they always place their Hopes in a Change.

In the mean time, the Cardinal order'd great Magazines to be made upon the Frontiers, for the Subsistence of the Army, that it might be sooner than ordinary in the Field.

The Duke of Bouillon, for his part, began to prepare for the War, and all the Consequences [Page 25] of it, that he could fore-see. He made 'em work upon the Fortifications of Sedan, and fur­nished the Town and Castle with all things re­quisite for a long Siege. He ingag'd several Of­ficers, both Horse and Foot, whom he had seen serve in Holland, and made Levies in the Coun­trey of Liege, with which he reinforc'd the Gar­rison.

Things were in this Posture about the End of May, when the Baron of Beauveau came to Sedan, with as ample a Treaty as they could de­sire, signed by the Cardinal Infant for the Em­perour and the King of Spain.

The Emperour promis'd Seven thousand Men, and the Archduke as many for the Spaniard; and these two Bodies join'd together, were to rendezvouze near Sedan in the Month of June.

The Spaniards likewise engag'd to send Two hundred thousand Crowns, to make new Levies, or to be employ'd as Monsieur the Count, and the Duke de Bouillon should judge most proper for their Designs. But the Spaniards gave but one half of the Money which they had promised. Nor did they send that in the time they were oblig'd to, and they fail'd intirely as to the Troops. The Emperour perform'd his part; he sent General Lamboy with Seven thousand Men which he was to furnish. During this, the Mareschal de Chatillon came into the Field to­wards the end of May, and advanced towards Sedan, as if he would invest it, but he return'd by the way of Monzon, without attempting any thing.

[Page 26] The Duke de Bouillon seeing him so near, and judging, that nothing was to be expected from the Spaniards; propos'd to the Prince the send­ing to Lamboy, to make him draw nearer. Lam­boy answer'd, That he had no Orders to pass fur­ther without the Spanish Troops. Monsieur the Count and the Duke sent back to him, to propose a Place for a Conference with him. He accept­ed it; and the Duke of Bouillon went to meet him. He endeavour'd to make him understand, of what Importance it would be, to let France see, That they had an Army near enough to Mareschal de Chatillon, to be able to oppose his Designs. But seeing he could not move him, by Reasons drawn from the common Interest, and that he had detach'd the Troops of his Army to send towards Aire; he declar'd to him, at last, That Monsieur the Count and he would go, and make what Terms they could, unless he drew nearer to Sedan, and engag'd to enter France with them, after they had join'd all their Forces.

Lamboy, seeing things in this Extremity, chang'd his Resolution; promis'd to march, and to be in the Neighbourhood of Sedan, within three days, with his Troops.

The Duke de Bouillon sent a Gentleman imme­diately to Monsieur the Count, to acquaint him with the Success of his Negotiation, and staid himself behind, that he might send down the Boats he found upon the Meuse, to make a Bridge there, to avoid the letting Lamboy's Ar­my pass through Sedan. When he had set them at work about it, Monsieur the Count came to [Page 27] him, under pretence of seeing what they did. The Duke of Bouillon having entertained him some time, with the Discourse of their Affairs, had no great difficulty to discover, that some other Motive brought him thither. He found his Mind so possess'd with the Thoughts of an Accommodation, That though he was satisfied before of his proneness to change, yet he was surpriz'd at it, and could not forbear telling him so, Monsieur the Count told him, That since he parted to go to the Rendezvouze of Lamboy's Army, he had receiv'd a Letter from the Duke of Longueville, his Brother-in-Law, which seem'd to open a Passage to a Negotiation between the Cardinal and him, and judging, that in this Conjuncture they had all the Reason in the World to fear the Difficulties which Lamboy's Approach might put them to; he thought it was Prudence to let himself appear more irreconcileable than ordinary: that he had sent a Gentleman, that he could conside in, to the Duke of Longueville, and that, till he was return'd, he would endeavour to keep Lamboy on the other side the Meuse. The Duke of Bou­illon answer'd him, That the making such a Pro­posal to Lamboy must be the Ruine of all their Affairs: for having press'd him to the degree we have done, What Reason have we, says he, to put the Change upon him, so soon and so grosly: it must be easie for him, to see there can be no other cause, but a Treaty with the Court, and then it can't be doubted, but he will retire and leave us expos'd to unavoidable Dan­gers: That it was the Count's business, to shew himself at the Head of an Army on the other [Page 28] side of the Meuse: That then would be a pro­per Time and Place to consider what Proposals to make 'em: And that this March alone would add a great Reputation to their Arms.

Though these Reasons seem'd to the Duke of Bouillon, to have made a deep Impression upon the Mind of the Prince; yet to prevent any thing that might be apprehended from the wa­vering Condition that he saw him in; Lamboy was no sooner arriv'd, but he made him pass the Meuse with his Army.

In the interim, it being the Nature of Irre­solution, which proceeds from Weakness, to in­crease in proportion to the Instances that are made for a speedy Resolve: Monsieur the Count was no sooner return'd to Sedan, but he was more unresolv'd than ever. In this Case he thought the Dutchess of Bouillon the most proper Person in the World to second his Intentions. He went to find her; and ha­ving reason'd with her, upon the State of Af­fairs, he oblig'd her to write to her Husband, all that Prudence or Tenderness could possibly inspire her with; and to send Chadirac, one of his Secretaries, in whom he had a great Confi­dence, to endeavour, at least, to perswade him to let Lamboy's Army lie encamp'd under Sedan.

The Duke de Bouillon, after having receiv'd the Letter, and heard all that Chadirac had to lay before him, answer'd him, that he knew very well the danger they were in, which in re­ality was augmented, rather by the weakness of Monsieur the Count, than the Power of the Car­dinal: [Page 29] That as to what related to his own par­ticular, he saw reason to be afraid of any accom­modation that should be made without a Sword in their hands: that it could not lay open to him the prospect of any Hopes, nor leave him so much as any reasonable pretence of making any Demand: that on the other hand, it was not to be doubted, but the Cardinal, either sooner or later, would be reveng'd of him for those Advantages which he must be forc'd to let Monsieur the Count have over Him. But that if they could push things forward, one lucky Event in the beginning of the Campagn, would make all France take Arms, and overturn the Cardinal's whole Fortune.

That he had advice there were great Commo­tions in Guyenne, and that the Favour that Cinq­mars, Master of the Horse, was in at Court, had already made Parties there; that in short he should find greater Security and Advantages in pursuing the War, than in any Peace could be made, as things stood at present. That besides, as he had before told the Prince, Lamboy would assuredly Retreat, the very first moment that he saw him change his design, not being able to at­tribute the Cause of it to any thing but an Ac­commodation with the Cardinal. That this was an Argument beyond reply, and suffi­cient to show, that they must have nothing to do with new Projects.

Our Forces, continued he, when together, are above ten thousand Men, and the Marshal de Chatillon has not more. There is nothing further then to be weigh'd, either we must fight him, or force him to retire. Lamboy [Page 30] agreed with me in this, when I made him re­solve to advance towards his Entrance into France. If we gain the Battle we have all before us. And after having hazarded so much as I have done, to serve the Interest of Monsieur the Count, Victory may then give me leave to put forward my own Pretensions. But if Fortune prove ad­verse to us, we may at least gather this Advan­tage from our ill Success, that our Retreat to Sedan, and so great a Resistance as ours will be, will show how far we are Imbark'd in these Af­fairs, and then our Friends, both in the King­dom and without, will think themselves oblig'd to hinder us from falling.

When the Duke de Bouillon had spoke thus to Chadirac, he sent him back, and order'd him to tell the Count, that Lamboy's Troops had pass'd the Meuse before break of day, and that as soon as he had join'd them, and they were Encamp'd together, he would come to him to concert their final Resolution. In the mean time, a Party, the Duke had sent out, brought him word that Marshal Chatillon had Decamp'd, and some of the Prisoners that were taken affirm'd, that his Design was to Post himself upon the Meuse, near Sedan, to hinder Lamboy's Passage.

After the Duke of Bouillon had receiv'd this Advice, and had made Lamboy pass the River, he went to find Monsieur the Count, to acquaint him how things went, and to let him under­stand, that now, without any further delay, it was necessary to march up to Marshal Chatillon. Monsieur the Count agreed with him, and the Duke finding him so well dispos'd, us'd all his endeavours to oblige him to tarry in Sedan. He [Page 31] offer'd to leave him absolute Master there; and told him, that in the Progress of the War, he would find other occasions enough to signalize his Courage, but that at the beginning he ought above all things to preserve his own Person. That as for himself, supposing he should fall in the Fight, it would be a great Consolation to him to know, that He was in Safety, and in a Condition to preserve his Wife and Children from being expos'd to the Vengeance of their common Enemies.

Monsieur the Count not only refus'd to tarry in Sedan, but propos'd it to the Duke to tarry there himself; and to let him alone run the ha­zard of a War, in which the Duke was engag'd only upon his Consideration.

This generous contest was concluded by their Resolution, that both should march. The same day the Duke of Bouillon having heard Mass, and taken the Sacrament at the Capuchins Church, and afterwards left Orders in Sedan, and sign'd some Papers that he judg'd necessary for his Houshold; return'd to the Army, and Mon­sieur the Count came thither likewise some hours afterwards.

In the mean time Marshal de Chatillon, who was an undaunted General, but incredibly neg­ligent, being perswaded that Lamboy's Forces were still on the other side the Meuse, march'd to oppose his Passage. But he found the Duke of Bouillon at the head of them, who having ad­vice of his march was advanc'd with a great Bo­dy of Horse, and being drawn up on a rising ground, had plac'd his Squadrons so thick, that they could not see there were any Foot to support [Page 32] him. Then he immediately secur'd all the pla­ces thereabouts, that might incommode the Ene­my. In the mean time Lamboy came up with the Infantry, and Cannon, and Monsieur the Count with his Troops.

The two Armies being thus drawn out, and ready to join Battel, the Duke of Bouillon rode up to the reserv'd Body, where Monsieur the Count was. He found him at Confession, behind a Bush, which was his third time that same day. Having tarried a little time to speak with him, he heard the Cannon: so being in hast to return, He charg'd the Captain of the Count's Guards, to tell him, That, as things stood, it was of the utmost importance not to delay Fighting one moment, and that he was going to give the Onset.

I shall not relate the particulars of this Fight, there are several Printed Accounts of it: and if I should repeat the Praises which are there given to the Duke of Bouillon, I should seem, instead of the Memoirs of his Life, to have undertaken his Panegyrick.

The Duke of Bouillon, with his Horse, charg'd those of the Enemy, and broke 'em; so that falling back upon their own Infantry, they cre­ated so great a Disorder, that in a little time the whole Army was Routed.

All things went likewise well on Lamboy's side, who fought like a Captain, and a Man of Courage. There was no brave resistance made but by the Cannon, which the Duke of Bouillon attack'd with great hazard of his own Person: But after he had taken and routed the Troops that he found there, there appear'd no Body of Men [Page 33] that could rally again sufficient to make a Stand. Then the Duke of Bouillon seeing himself near the place where Monsieur the Count was, went himself to acquaint him with the Defeat of his Enemies; but found him dead.

The Fate of this Prince is the more strange and unfortunate, because he lost his Life without having fought, and lost it even after the Victo­ry, encompass'd with his Guards and several Gentlemen, and no one yet could ever truly know, by whom, nor how he was slain. As for my own part, having laid together all the Cir­cumstances, that those who were then about him have related, I am perswaded, that he kill'd himself. This was likewise the Opinion of the Duke of Bouillon. For it is certain, that he twice lifted up the Visor of his Helmet with the Barrel of one of his Pistols; and that Riquemont, his Gentleman of the Horse, fore-warn'd him of the danger that might happen by it. It is certain, that the Blow was in the middle of his Forehead, and that the Shot was so near, that the Paper went into his Head. Nevertheless, be­cause that the very moment he gave himself this Blow, it chanced, that no one's Eyes were upon him: the Shame and Despair of those that were about him; and, above all, the great Prejudice they had to the Cardinal, made 'em say, That it was he that had caus'd him to be assassinated, by a Traytour, who had mix'd himself with his Guards.

If we consider throughly, how much the Duke of Bouillon had hazarded for Monsieur the Count, we cannot doubt the Interest he had in the Pre­servation of his Person. And then, if we judge [Page 34] into what a Condition the gaining of this Battle would have put the Fortune of the Prince; it will be no hard thing to comprehend how great a loss his Death must be every way to the Duke of Bouillon, and consequently how great his Sorrow for him. In the mean time, knowing of what Importance it is, to hinder the Disorder, which generally happens in an Army, through the Desire of Spoil, and Heat of Victory; he re­turn'd immediately, and omitted nothing that might secure it to him. It was so intire, that the Mareschal de Chatillon lost all his Infantry, and almost all the principal Officers were slain or taken Prisoners.

The same day the Duke of Bouillon sent Sa­laignac to the Cardinal Infant to carry him the News of the Victory, and Death of the Count; and to assure him, at the same time, that the Treaty between the Prince and him being mutu­al, he was ready to maintain it in every part, provided he would oblige the Spaniards to per­form their parts for the future, and prepare what they had been wanting in heretofore.

Whilst the Return of Salaignac was expected, the Duke of Bouillon, with General Lamboy, went to besiege Doncheri, a Place upon the Meuse, two Leagues from Sedan. He carried it in four days: after this, he was for marching in­to France, being perswaded, that if the Fame of his Victory had already rais'd the Hopes of the Cardinal's Enemies; yet the Death of the Count, which they must, no doubt, have had notice of, at the same time, would put them in­to a Consternation: so that it was of very great Consequence, to let 'em see, by the continuati­on [Page 35] of their Progress, That the Party did still subsist. But Lamboy, without contradicting the Duke's Reasons, propos'd only the deferring it for some days, till he had refresh'd his Troops. During all this Interval, what-ever Instances the Duke could make, it was impossible to oblige him to march further; on the contrary, he sent Three of his best Regiments to Aire: and, after that, repass'd the Meuse, to follow the Cardinal Infant, who march'd to the Succour of Aire, and who had sent him Orders to join him.

The Duke of Guise, in a little time after, re­turning from Brussels, retir'd with Lamboy, be­ing offended, that the Duke of Bouillon did not stay for his Arrival before he fought.

The Duke of Bouillon made a Gentleman go af­ter him, to tell him, That to follow the Spaniards when they had abandon'd him, did not look like a Performance of the Treaty which they two had sign'd. If he had any Designs, that respected their common Interests, it was necessary they should concert them; and that, if he would give him a Meeting, he would be sure not to fail him. The Duke of Guise return'd Answer, That he would be at Sedan in three days, and there they would take their Measures. However, he did not come back, nor was there one word heard of him.

Lamboy, to whom the Duke of Bouillon made a Compliment, by the same Gentleman, wrote him a Letter, the Original of which is in my keeping, and which shews the very great Esteem he had of him. After, having spoke to him of his private Concerns, touching the Prisoners he had left at Sedan, and the Cannon taken in the [Page 36] Fight, He added these very Words: ‘As for what remains, my Lord, I see your Highness is about making your Peace with France; upon which Subject I have nothing to say. But it is with great Regret, that I see my self remov'd from serving any longer under the Command of so great a Captain; to whom I shall always continue, and with Respect, &c.’

The Duke of Bouillon seeing himself in this manner abandon'd, sent back Salaignac with speed, to the Cardinal Infant, with an Instru­ction signed by himself. He first complain'd, That since the Death of Monsieur the Count, he had never vouchsafed to send any Person to sig­nifie the part he took in so considerable a Loss, both for the Quality of the Person, and the In­terest of the Party: That in the very Letter that he had receiv'd from his Royal Highness, by the Hands of Salaignac, he was so far from speak­ing of the Count, in terms due to a Prince of the Blood Royal of France, That he had mixt him, without distinction, with Persons that were not of equal Birth, when he spoke of the Duke of Guise and himself: He assur'd him further, That he was ready to execute the Treaty: But he declar'd, he would not stand to it, unless the Spaniards would perform what was behind, and both the Emperour and they immediately send the Troops and Money, which they had promis'd, for the carrying on the War. He spoke also of Money advanc'd, and Losses both by the King's Army, and Lamboy's. He repre­sented the Freedom with which he had acted du­ring the War: He left it to others, to tell him how much he had contributed to the gaining of [Page 37] the Day; and desir'd his Royal Highness to be pleas'd to consider, That the Posture their Affairs were in, appear'd so advantagious, that there was nothing they might not hope for, if he would but put him into a Condition of pursu­ing the Victory. He further added; That he should take the delays made in answering him and not satisfying his Demands, for a manifest Rupture: That in this case he must be off of the word he had given, and charg'd Salaignac to de­mand the Papers he had sign'd; protesting, be­fore all the Princes of Europe, That having been abandon'd, without Regard had to the Faith of a solemn Treaty, nor to the Advantages of a Battle gain'd, and a Town taken; he was re­duc'd to seek his Safety in an Accommoda­tion.

The Answer of the Cardinal Infant, was fill'd with nothing but the Praises of the Duke of Bou­illon, and the Examples of those who had been ruin'd by confiding in Cardinal Richlieu, after having once declared against him: but he avoid­ed any positive Answer to his Demands and Re­monstrances, and concluded in these Words: ‘If the Spaniards (says he) have failed in their part of the Treaty, the Emperour ha­ving executed his, 'tis just, that his Highness should address himself to him, for an account of their Failings, and that he cannot acquit himself without knowing what he will answer: But Lamboy being retir'd, no Answer that was to come so far, could be expected, without ex­posing him to a manifest Danger.’

The Mareschal de Brezè at the Head of an Ar­my, had join'd the Mareschal Chatillon, since the [Page 38] Battle. The King was likewise advanc'd to­wards the Frontiers, and come as far as Rethel: so that all the Forces together were Five and twenty thousand Men.

The Duke of Bouillon seeing himself in this Extremity, forced to retire into Sedan, and to rely upon his own Forces, doubted not but he should be besieged. He therefore apply'd all his Thoughts, to put himself into a Condition to make a glorious Resistance. In short, it was no hard matter to imagine, that the Cardinal in­cens'd against him to that degree that he was, would not have an extreme Desire to ruine him intirely. But considering the ill Dispositions that the Court and the rest of the Kingdom had towards the Cardinal, and the uncertain Condi­tion of the Siege of Aire; it was of dangerous Consequence to undertake that of Sedan. Besides all the considerable Persons about the King, both the Cardinal's Friends as well as Enemies, spoke in favour of the Duke of Bouillon. The latter desirous to hinder a Prince that had been so declar'd an Enemy of the Cardinal's, from sinking: The others, out of Generosity, seeing him after so great an Action, expos'd without any Hope of Succour.

In short, the King being arriv'd at Meziers, the Cardinal offer'd his Mediation to the Duke of Bouillon. He accepted it with a Confidence equal to the Sincerity with which it was offer'd him.

From the moment that the Negotiation was begun, and the Truce agreed on, Cinqmars, Master of the Horse to the King, who had been so far declar'd a Favourite, that he was already [Page 39] very much suspected by the Cardinal, sought the Duke of Bouillon's Friendship by the Medi­ation of de Thou, who made several Journies to Sedan, under pretence of the Obligations and Friendship that he had for the Duke, but indeed to offer all things he could hope for, from Cinq­mars. He assur'd him, That Cinqmars had al­ready laboured very much to mollifie the King, and to make him recede from that Bitterness and Anger, which the Cardinal had infus'd into him.

The Duke of Bouillon answer'd these Offers, and Advances, with such Decency and good Breed­ing, as the State of his present Fortune re­quired. He was convinced, in the Sequel, that in reality these good Offices had not been unser­viceable to him.

In the mean time, the Peace was concluded in the most glorious manner that the Duke of Bou­illon could desire. The Cardinal would appear in the Treaty as Caution for the Duke of Bouil­lon, and as Guarantee to Him, that his Majesty should execute it sincerely, even to the Articles of the smallest Consequence.

The Duke of Bouillon went to Meziers, to see the King. He was receiv'd there with all possi­ble Demonstrations of a great Esteem, and en­tire Oblivion of what had pass'd. The Cardi­nal omitted nothing to perswade the Duke, that he heartily desired his Friendship. He told the King in publick, that he ought to give him the Command of an Army: and that since, even with the Spaniards, he had been able to beat the French Forces, there would be nothing that [Page 40] might not be expected from his Experience and Courage, when he should be at the Head of them. Nevertheless, after all, upon Conside­ration of what had happened before, and the general Notion that the World had of the Car­dinal's Reconciliations, the more Earnestness he express'd to the Duke of Bouillon, the less Opi­nion the Duke had of his Sincerity.

The King went not into Sedan, nor did the Cardinal; Cinqmars went to Dinner there with several of his Friends. The Duke of Bouillon generally was visited by all the Court, and they could not refrain speaking of the extraordinary Esteem they had of him: for as what he had done in the Day of Battle, and throughout the whole War, had increas'd his Reputation in Arms; so his Praises were no less, for having dar'd to declare himself against so great a King, and so powerful a Minister; and to put his whole Family and Fortune to the Hazard of a Battle, rather than dismiss an unfortunate Prince that had come to him for Refuge.

The Peace being thus concluded, the King return'd to Paris, and the Duke of Bouillon con­tinued at Sedan.

As he was very well instructed in his Religi­on, and had constantly such Thoughts as became a sound Christian; so he always attributed the Success of his Affairs to God: and by the pub­lick Prayers that he caus'd to be made, he re­turned him Thanks for the Dangers from which he had been deliver'd. It might seem proba­ble, that after having come off with so much Glory and Success, he should have applied him­self to a more quiet way of Life; but he was [Page 41] not born for Repose: and after what had pass'd, the uncertainty how he should manage himself in Peace, did, for some days, distract his Mind with no fewer Perplexities, than he had strug­gled with during the War. What Insight so­ever he might have into things, and though his natural Temper might be never so far from Ir­resolution, yet it was not easie to determine in his Circumstances. Each side that he could take had great Inconveniencies. To make a long stay at Sedan, and to frame Pretexts for not go­ing thence, was to make France suspect him, to expose himself to new Dangers, and to bar up the only way he had left to Glory and Fortune. Should he take up a Resolution of still pushing on the War, what Succours could he expect from the Emperour and King of Spain, who had so cruelly abandon'd him, and in a Con­juncture where their own Interests should have oblig'd 'em to uphold him, though they had not been bound to it by their Engagements. To go to Court; what Security for him there? He that had been the Soul of the only Party that had ever durst directly form it self against the Cardinal. He that had Printed a Manifesto at Sedan that reflected so much upon his Mini­stry. He that had gain'd a Battle, and made too Honourable a Peace to have it ever effac'd out of the Cardinal's Memory. And the Car­dinal was too well known to imagine, that he could ever dis-unite the Remembrance of an Injury, and the Desire of revenging it.

The Duke of Bouillon reckon'd, that the grea­test Vexations of his Life, were those he suffer'd under these Uncertainties. They must, in effect, [Page 42] have been to him so much the greater, because I have often heard him say, That between two sides, he had much rather take the worst, than not take any; because all would fall to Ruine, by doing nothing, whereas, by Time and Action, one might expect a happy Event of those Affairs, which appear'd most desperate in their beginning. At last, having weigh'd all things, he resolv'd to go to Court, and carry his Wife and Children thither; and to shew that he acted with an open Confidence, he resolv'd to go and make some stay at Turenne, and some other Seats that he had in Guyenne.

THE Second BOOK.

THE Battle of Sedan was fought on the sixth of July. The Treaty of Peace was Sign'd at Meziers the eight of August, and about the fifteenth of September, the Duke of Bouillon parted from Se­dan, in his way to Court. He found it at Nesle in Picardy. De Thou went before him, and Cinq­mars came to visit him as soon as he was ar­riv'd.

By the King's Reception, and the Cardinal's acting with him, he had just reason to believe, that things were in the same posture he had left them. In the mean time De Thou omitted no­thing which he thought proper to fasten those tyes which he had begun between the Duke of Bouillon and Cinqmars; and he thought he could not give the Duke more substantial Proofs of his steadiness and Friendship.

De Thou had Wit, Honesty, Courage, and very noble Intentions: but his too great activi­ty made him enter upon several Projects which would undoubtedly have been rejected by one who had been more capable of making deeper reflections. He began with the Long Robe, some time after he was for the Sword. So at last he [Page 44] had no profession at all: which must be look'd upon as one of the most disagreeable Conditions that a Man of Merit can find himself reduced to. Amidst those different states which show'd some uneasiness in him, he still preserv'd the Reputa­tion of great Honesty. He was then disconten­ted at the Cardinal about some Employment in the Army, that had been refus'd him, and this discontent, without doubt, did in some measure animate him against this Minister. In short, De Thou was resolv'd to ruine him. He believ'd, that as for this World, he could undertake no­thing that would be more Glorious, and that before God he could do nothing more just. The Cardinal's Power seem'd to him to decrease every day; and Cinqmars on the contrary, to advance in favour, insomuch, that he was now entire Master of the King's Affections. Amidst so ma­ny prejudices, it is scarce credible, but that when De Thou laid down his Platform of the Court to the Duke of Bouillon, he allow'd some thing to his own Passions. There is a great deal of probability likewise, that it was he who made Cinqmars desire of the Duke of Bouillon, that he might have an opportunity of discoursing with him freely, to tell him how he stood with the King, and askt what his advice might be, in re­lation to the Cardinal: But when De Thou made this Proposal to the Duke of Bouillon, he an­swer'd, that nothing could be more dangerous to him, and even to Cinqmars, than to let the least suspicion arise of their holding secret cor­respondence. That the Cardinal having infor­mation of the minutest particulars, it was im­possible for them to have any private Conversati­on, [Page 45] especially in such a place as Nesle, that should not come to his knowledge. The Duke of Bou­illon therefore desir'd De Thou to divert Cinq­mars from this thought; and to let him under­stand, that it was the Consideration of their com­mon Interest which hinder'd him from comply­ing with it. He told De Thou farther, as a Friend, that he was desirous to live fairly with Cinqmars, and to return the advances he had made him, and the good Offices he had receiv'd; but that these good Offices were not of so high a nature as to oblige him to be drawn blindly into his Interests: That in short he had no mind to Re-imbark himself in new troubles, but that as things stood then, the infallible way of doing it would be to intermeddle with Cinqmars his Con­duct. That if the Cardinal and Cinqmars were private Persons, then he should make no scruple of declaring for Cinqmars, but that he could look upon neither of them in such a respect; not the Cardinal, by reason of his quality as first Mini­ster, nor Cinqmars, as being the King's profest Favourite. De Thou promis'd the Duke of Bou­illon to manage things so, that Cinqmars his good inclinations towards him should not be in the least alter'd. And indeed the Duke of Bouillon meeting him next day in the King's Apartment, he found an opportunity to tell him, that there was nothing he design'd more passionately than his Friendship; but that he had pray'd Monsieur de Thou to tell him, that he would never ask it till he had merited it by some considerable Service. The Duke of Bou­illon answer'd him with a general Complement, and for the rest refer'd him to what Monsieur de Thou would say in his behalf.

[Page 46] When the Duke of Bouillon went to Nesle, he sent the Dutchess his Lady, and his Children, to Paris, to tarry for him there, with a design not to go thither till the King went. But seeing that he would remain some time in Picardy, the Duke of Bouillon staid but ten or twelve Days, hasten'd by the Season to make his Journey into Guyenne, and indeed hasten'd more by his desire to quit the Court, judging that as he saw things stand, it was prudence in him to make no long stay there.

After taking leave of the King and Cardinal, he went to bid Cinqmars adieu, who renew'd to him all the Protestations he had already made, and told him, that when any thing, which he ought to be inform'd of, should come to his Knowledge, he would apply himself to De Thou, to acquaint him with it. The Duke told him, that if he would take this pains, he could not Communicate to any Man better, nor in whom he plac'd a more entire Confidence than in Mon­sieur de Thou. They parted in this manner, that is, very kindly, but without entring upon any thing particular.

Cinqmars was very well Shap'd, and very Amiable. He had Courage, a Sprightly Wit, Bold, Capable of great Undertakings, and pa­tient in his pursuing them, with great Art and much Application. But being no more than one and twenty, he wanted Experience; be­sides he was Untractable, and Presumptuous, which are generally the inseparable faults of For­tune and Youth: And these faults are so much the more dangerous, because presumption enga­ges them in rash Actions; and refusing to be ad­vis'd, [Page 47] hinders their abandonning 'em. So Cinqmars, what Remonstrances soever his Friends could make, he could never overcome the Hatred he had conceived for the Cardinal. If he had only been capable of moderating it, could he but have subdued it before the King, there had been no Greatness to which in time he might not have pretended, considering the violent Inclinations of his Master towards him, and the Age and Indi­sposition of the Cardinal. But, in short, it was impossible for him to manage these two Points, with a Conduct that should be lasting; whether 'twas by the Fatality of his Destiny, or because Men are not yet arriv'd to that Pitch of Wis­dom, to know when to stop the Career of their Fortune, so as to be able to fix it. But what­ever Impatience Cinqmars might have for advan­cing his Fortune, yet he could not relinquish the Pursuit of his own Pleasures, and that incon­querable Aversion he had for those of the King: for this Prince being inclin'd to Piety, he us'd to seek his Recreations in some innocent Amuze­ments; so that what pleased and diverted him, overwhelm'd his Favourite with Melancholy and Uneasiness.

The Abbot de Beaumont then in the Cardi­nal's Service, since Praeceptor to the King and Archbishop of Paris, has told me, That one day his Master having sent him to Cinqmars, to acquaint him that the King was very much in­cens'd against him; he found him in his Cham­ber, with Tears in his Eyes, bewailing his De­stiny. He said, several times, he had rather re­nounce all, than endure that Life any longer, which the King made him lead. In short, he [Page 48] was in such violent Passions, that Beaumont was scarce able to let him understand, that the King's whole Discontent proceeded from this, That upon his Return from the Chase of Ble­reau he seem'd so weary, that he could not stay a moment in the King's Apartment, who was retir'd into his Closet on purpose to call him only to him. The Cardinal, in the beginning took care of Cinqmars's Conduct; He had, in some measure, promoted his Fortune, for the Friendship he had with Mareschal de Fiat, his Father, who ow'd his Fortune to him: but per­haps it might he, because he knew the Place of Favourite could not be void; and seeing the great Inclination the King had to Cinqmars, he might think it better to follow than op­pose it.

At the Return of the Court from Picardy, Cinqmars desired of the King to make him of the Council. He thought the Cardinal could have no Pretence to oppose him in this, since he could not be ignorant that the King gave him an account of every thing that pass'd there, though the most secret and most important. When the King first made the Proposal, the Car­dinal was so far transported as to say, That it was enough to make his Affairs despicable in foreign Countries, to let it be seen, that so small a Head-piece, as Cinqmars, should have any part in them. Afterwards he sent for him, and told him himself, what he had said to the King; to which he added some things so offensive, that Cinqmars, raging with Grief, flew from him like one distracted.

[Page 49] Some few days after, upon the Cardinal's be­ing inform'd that Cinqmars was in Love with the Princess Mary, and that he had Thoughts of marrying Her; he raillied upon it very smartly, and said, He could not believe this Princess would so far forget her Birth, as to debase her self to so mean a Companion. These Discour­ses being told Cinqmars, rais'd his Hatred of Cardinal to the highest Pitch. But these En­counters made no Noise then, because the Car­dinal believ'd it his Interest, not to let these aspiring Thoughts of Cinqmars be seen, and the Troubles he created him: and Cinqmars did not think it proper for him to reveal to any Person, the Discourse which he had with the Cardi­nal, and the Treatments which he had received from him.

Whilst these things pass'd between the Car­dinal and Cinqmars, the Duke of Bouillon took his Journey into Guyenne. Passing by Orleans, Chance would have it, that he should meet the Duke of Orleans. The Duke of Bouillon would have avoided him, knowing that he had often ex­press'd the Hatred he had for him. It was groun­ded upon this; That at the time this Prince was retired to Brussels, he had often endeavour­ed to bring the Duke of Bouillon to his Party, without having ever been able to engage him in it. However he receiv'd him very obligingly, and would make him keep St. Hubert's Feast with him at Chaubort.

After he was arriv'd at Turenne; and had spent some days in looking after the Affairs of so considerable an Estate, where he had never [Page 50] been before, he went to that which he had in Pe­rigord. Being at Limeuil, and coming from Hunt­ing, an unknown Person gave him a Letter, which de Thou had writ to him. He was extremely sur­priz'd, when he saw it dated half a League off from Limeuil, and that de Thou desired him to appoint a Place where he might see him without being known. He did as de Thou requested: and when they were together de Thou told him, that he was come to desire him earnestly in Cinqmars behalf, to return to Court again, and that his Return thither would be of very great Impor­tance. The Duke of Bouillon ask'd him the Rea­sons, that might oblige Cinqmars to propose to him the taking of so extraordinary a Journey; but he was yet more surpriz'd when de Thou an­swer'd him, that Cinqmars had not entrusted him with them. This Proceeding appear'd ve­ry disobliging, in relation to himself, and almost incredible, in respect of de Thou. He told him, That, being but just come thither, it was impos­sible for him to return without any Pretence, or apparent Reason. He desired, he would let Cinqmars understand as much: and yet that he would not relate to him all his Dissatisfaction: That something was allowable to his Youth: That the Favour he was in had likewise its Pri­vilege: That he held himself oblig'd to think the best of Cinqmars's Proceedings, in con­sideration of the kind Offices he had receiv'd from him, and the Confidence he shew'd he had of him in Picardy.

About three Weeks after de Thou was retur­ned from thence, The Duke of Bouillon being at Turenne, receiv'd a Letter from the King, [Page 51] which order'd him to come to Court with all speed. He departed immediately; and as soon as ever he was in Paris, de Thou came to him, to request him, from Cinqmars, to let him speak with him before he saw either the King or Car­dinal. The Duke of Bouillon had a great deal of difficulty to resolve what to do in so dange­rous a Conjuncture: nevertheless de Thou ob­lig'd him to consent to it, after he had told him, what Measures he had taken, that he might do it without any manner of Fear.

The Duke of Bouillon then ask'd de Thou, if Cinqmars had never told him the Reasons of the Journey, which he had made him take into Pe­rigord? De Thou told him, That he knew no more, at present, than when he parted with him; But that Cinqmars had positively assur'd him, That, by the Sequel, they should see, that neither of them should have reason to complain of the Management he had us'd upon this Oc­casion.

The King was then at St. Germains. De Thou carried the Duke of Bouillon thither in his Coach, and by the favour of the Night, and the Praecautions they had taken, He and Cinqmars saw one another without any one's Knowledge. Fontrailles was in Cinqmars's Chamber. Cinqmars presented him, as his intimate Friend, to the Duke of Bouillon, who had never seen him; and added this at his presenting him, That though he had an entire Confidence in Fontrailles, yet he should not have took the Liberty of letting him be at this Interview, without the Consent of the Duke of Bouillon; if he had not thought there was always more Trust to be given to [Page 52] Persons of Quality, than to Servants; and that indeed he had sent away all his People, under pretence of being alone with Fontrailles, which often us'd to happen.

After their first Compliments, Fontrailles and de Thou retired into a Closet: and then Cinqmars began to tell the Duke of Bouillon, That the King had not been well since his Return from Picardy; That the Cardinal however had not desisted from making him resolve upon going into Catalonia. That it was resolv'd much about the same time, to fetch him from Turenne, to give him the Command of the Army in Italy; and that he judg'd it very necessary for him, be­fore he saw any Body, to have some Intimation of it: the rather because he could not perswade himself that this proceeded from the Cardinal out of any good Intent, because he lost no occa­sion of making ill Impressions of him in the King's Mind. That he had told him, a little while agoe, That his Dutchess had too much Power over him; and that she, in her Heart, was intirely devoted to Spain. That he had heard, that Monsieur des Noyers told the King, That it was no difficult thing to take Sedan from him; because, being oblig'd by the Treaty of Protection, to receive the King's Troops into it; He would have Right to seize on It, in case he refus'd as many as should be sent thither. That, in short, the Distrust they had of him was so great, that the Cardinal thought nothing of more Importance, than the hin­dering him from returning to Sedan. That they would not permit him even to tarry in Guyenne, and that the manner, in which he had been visi­ted, [Page 53] had caus'd Suspicions, That, without doubt, they would send him to Italy, only that they might be able to secure his Person, in case the King should die. That it would not be difficult to arrest him in an Army where he should have no Troops of his own; not one Friend; and where he was not so much as known, but by his Reputation. That, let him be never so great a Captain, he would find himself much expos'd, by the extraordinary things that the Count de Harcourt had done there. That to come up to 'em, he must be assur'd of as great Fortune as he had, and have the Ministry as much on his side. That besides, the main Action would be either in Flanders or Germany.

Cinqmars added; That he now stood fairer with the King than ever, and that he was not less secure of Monsieur's Favour to him, whom he had a little while since acquainted, by the Count d' Aubijoux, of the Resolution that had been taken, of making him go into Catalonia; but he had advis'd him not to do it, being cer­tain, that the Cardinal's Design was to Arrest him, if the King should chance to dye there. That in this case the Cardinal had no small De­signs, seeing he had propos'd to the King, un­der several weak Pretences, to leave the Queen and her two Children, at the Castle of Vincennes, where Chavigni, one of his own Creatures, was Governour. That they were perswaded the King could not live long. That it was upon this Consideration, that the Cardinal was so much for his Journey into Catalonia, under pre­tence that his Affairs there required it. That he doubted not, but that if the King should die [Page 54] so remote from his Queen and Children, he be­ing Master of his Confessour, and all other Af­fairs, but that he would be so likewise of his Thoughts when he lay a dying; aud then, ha­ving both the Court and Army at his Command, his Ambition would have no other Bounds, but what he himself should prescribe it. I ordered him further to acquaint Monsieur, continued Cinqmars, that in this Extremity I would advise him to secure the Spaniard, that, in case the King should die, the Party he would find in France, might have some Assistance from abroad, by a Treaty, which should be founded upon a general Peace; and by this means they might secure themselves from the Designs of their common Enemy, the Cardinal. I am perswa­ded likewise, added he, that the most infallible means of ruining him, if the King does not die, is to dispose Monsieur to take Arms: For I having a Correspondence with him, which I will continue, and seeing the King so often tired with this Ministry, that he would willingly be delivered from it, I will order it so, that his Royal Highness shall not declare, till there is so favourable a Conjuncture, that I can infallibly make the King take a final Resolution against the Cardinal; and I have made a Project for a Treaty with Spain, which I will shew you.

Here the Duke of Bouillon interrupted him; and told him he was desirous to explain himself to him, in relation to the Spaniards. That he was just come from under their Hands, and that he was resolv'd not to get into them again. That he had too many Proofs of their Breach of Trust, and their Weakness, that besides, their [Page 55] Divisions among themselves were so great, that it was impossible for 'em to carry on any consi­derable Design, or that in the progress they should not ruine themselves by their Misunder­standings.

Cinqmars though surpriz'd to the utmost de­gree at finding the Duke of Bouillon so averse to a Treaty with Spain, and seeing, that in an af­fair of this consequence, he had advanc'd too far, towards one that would not enter into the same designs, yet resum'd the Discourse, without seeming at all concern'd.

He told the Duke of Bouillon, that notwith­standing all these considerations, it would still be much to their advantage, that Monsieur should make a Treaty with the Spaniards, because it would make him more considerable, and that He, having so much Power over him as he had, would hinder him from making any use of it, un­less they should afterwards find it absolutely ne­cessary. After this re-entring upon what con­cern'd the Duke of Bouillon, he assur'd him he had made his Peace with his Royal Highness, and that he had so dispos'd him as to clear up those matters that he said he had reason to complain of. That the first time his Highness should see him, perhaps he would tell him the same.

Cinqmars concluded with remarking to the Duke of Bouillon, how much he ought to re­ly on him, since he had given him such Proofs of an entire Confidence. That it was as much as his Life and Fortune was worth, that this should be kept secret.

The Duke of Bouillon answer'd, That he should have no occasion to repent; that he [Page 56] would mention it to no Person breathing. He requested the same Secrecy from him, as to what related to the Treaty with Spain. He ask'd if De Thou had any knowledge of these matters, and Cinqmars telling him, that he had never spoke to him about 'em, the Duke of Bou­illon promis'd him, that he would never menti­on 'em to him; and added farther, that as for the Command in Italy, he would think of it, and having weigh'd the Advantages and Inconveni­encies, he would take his final Resolution, and for the rest they might discourse at leisure.

We may judge, by this whole Discourse of Cinqmars, that the Duke of Bouillon retir'd with matter large enough to employ his Reason and his Fear. He saw very well, that the Ambition of Cinqmars, and his hatred to the Cardinal, might make him aggravate several things: but then, at the same time, to pass a true judgment of his own Condition, and the present State of the Court, he would find very great probabili­ties for all that had been told him. That which prest him most, was what to determine about the employ in Italy: the King having sent for him, upon this account, it was not likely, he would be long without speaking to him of it: should he accept it, he had great reason to fear the Consequence: but in the present Conjun­cture of their Affairs, there was more danger yet in refusing it: and to prevent what might be fear'd upon his refusal, if he should incline to that side, he must secretly, and with speed, re­tire to Sedan, as the only means to prevent his being Arrested.

This was all that Cinqmars and the Cardinals [Page 57] Enemies could desire, to have him retire to Se­dan: and indeed to view only the first prospect of the thing, the Duke of Bouillon might see in it both their common Advantages, and his own Security: but to search into the Effects of it, he there must find his undoubted ruine. Besides the Dutchess of Bouillon, and his Children being at Turenne, were sufficient Hostages for his Con­duct. In short, having weigh'd all these things, he went the next Morning to pay his Duty to the King, and to see the Cardinal, being resol­ved to receive the Proposal, that should be made him, as one surpriz'd, but yet as if he were very well pleas'd at it. The truth is, and I have heard him say so several times, that he was touch'd extreamly with the Glory, to see him­self sought to, to Command a Royal Army, six Months after the Battle of Sedan. This thought alone was sufficient to determine him; and with­out doubt, it contributed much to his perswa­sion, that Fortune and his good Conduct, should supply all the rest.

However eight or ten Days pass'd without the breaking this Design to him: whether the thing was not yet fully resolv'd on, or because at this time the King was more indispos'd than ordi­nary. This Prince had naturally his health but ill. He was then so weak, that his Physicians be­gan to fear his Life, and to tell this secretly to their Friends. But as secrets of such consequence soon become publick Discourse, the Rumour was spread every where that the King could not last much longer.

During the Expectation of so great a Turn, every one made his own Reflections upon Pub­lick [Page 58] Affairs, and according to them regulated the Projects of their own particular Fortunes. But this Conjuncture being the most nice and pe­rilous that ever was known, Fear and Distrust were encreas'd by the Danger; so that the most daring Courtiers were afraid to consult to­gether.

The Queen, who had been persecuted by the Cardinal so many several ways, was in very great Frights. She doubted not but if the King should die, this Minister would take her Chil­dren from her, to get the Regency into his own hands; and though these Thoughts were as so many mortal Blows to her, yet they were not the ut most of her Fears.

Monsieur the Duke of Orleans, who in several important Occasions of his Life, had likewise felt the bloody Effects of the Cardinal's Hatred, could not doubt but He would look on him as the most formidable Enemy; both for the Me­mory he would retain of what had pass'd, and for the Authority, which his Quality, as onely Brother to the King, might seem to promise him, during the time of a Regency.

Things being in this Condition, we may guess in what straits the Duke of Bouillon found him­self. Having pass'd his Life in the Wars and out of France, He had scarce any more know­ledge of the Court, than what he had gain'd by the little stay he had made there; and Na­tural Parts, how great soever they be, are not sufficient, without being succour'd by some Ex­perience, or the Counsels of a sincere Friend, who is harder to be found in that place, than in any other in the World.

[Page 59] In the mean time they began to open the Thoughts they had of sending the Duke of Bou­illon into Italy, and though he had not discover'd the Resolution he had taken in this Affair, to any Person: Yet the Courtiers who are always ready to determine what is to come to pass, being desirous of Novelties, and upon this Occasion impatient to have some new Troubles, began already to say, That he would refuse this Em­ployment, and retire to Sedan.

The Queen, relying upon this Rumour, or press'd by her Fears, made de Thou search after him with Secrecy and great Earnestness. She ordered, that he should first be desired to close with her Interest, and to give her two Instances of it, which she thoug [...] very essential: The first was, to accept the Command in Italy; that there might be such a Person at the Head of an Army, of whose Merit she was so well assur'd: The other was; That, if the King should die, he would promise to receive her into Sedan, with her two Children, not thinking (so well was she assur'd of the Cardinal's ill Intentions, and his Power), there was any Place of Safety for them in all France.

De Thou likewise told the Duke, that since the King had been sick, the Queen and the Duke of Orleans had entered into a very strict Union, and that Cinqmars was the Person that had ef­fected it; but that he was the only Man, to whom this Secret had been intrusted, and he desired him not to disclose it to any Body breathing.

[Page 60] The Duke of Bouillon gave him his Promise; and, resuming the Discourse, told him, It was not possible things should ever come to that Ex­tremity, that the Children of France should have occasion for such a Retreat: that however they should always be Masters of Sedan, when the Queen should be pleas'd to send them thither; and he should look upon it as a very great Ho­nour to receive 'em there: That as for the Em­ployment in Italy; It had not yet been menti­oned to him; but in case it was offered him, he would act conformably to the Queen's Desire. Two days after, de Thou, out of a motion of his own, desired the Queen to signifie to the Duke of Bouillon, the satisfaction she took at the manner in which he answer'd what had been propos'd to him on her part; which she could do but in very few words, and that as she was going to Mass; leaving the rest to de Thou, as the Person in whom she had plac'd an entire Confidence.

In the mean time, the King grew better; and the Cardinal declar'd to the Duke of Bouillon, that he was design'd to Command the Army in Italy. He spoke to him concerning this Em­ployment in very obliging Terms, but us'd not any single Expression that might shew his Desire of securing him to his Interests or Fortunes: Whether he was with-held by the Consideration of his own Glory, as thinking it below him to Court any Body: or else, having resolv'd to Ruine him, he would avoid the Shame of ha­ving us'd the Appearances of a real Friendship, in order to his more certain Destruction. The Duke, at his Acceptance of the Employment, [Page 61] made his Reply in general Terms, and with such a Grace, as might become a Man of his Quality.

The same day the Duke of Bouillon being re­turn'd to Paris, Cinqmars came to him two hours before Night, to carry him to visit Mon­sieur, who lay at Venice-House, where his Stables were then.

After the Duke of Bouillon had given him Sa­tisfaction, by clearing some Passages that had happened heretofore; Monsieur told him all the obliging things imaginable, earnestly desired his Friendship, and promis'd to serve him upon all Occasions. Cinqmars added farther, addressing himself to Monsieur, that he thought he had done him a signal Piece of Service, in bringing over to his Party, a Person of the Duke of Bou­illon's Quality; who, besides his Personal Merit, was Master of a Place that was so very impor­tant. Afterwards he spoke of the Cardinal without any manner of Reserve; he discours'd at large of what all of them had reason to fear, if the King should die; and Fontrailles and d' Aubijoux being present, he said, 'Twas neces­sary to treat with the Spaniards. Then Mon­sieur, taking up the Discourse, assur'd 'em he was going to send Fontrailles to Madrid, and that he would recommend the Duke of Bouillon's Concerns to him, if he was willing to come into the Treaty. The Duke of Bouillon answer'd, That he had already spoke clearly to that Point with Cinqmars, and that his Opinion was not al­tered. Afterwards he represented the Condi­tion of the Spaniards, and their Failures in all their Treaties, more at large than he had done to [Page 62] Cinqmars, adding, That he doubted not but their Consideration for Monsieur's Person would cause 'em to make larger Efforts than they had done for Monsieur the Count of Soissons and himself: but that no Praecaution was too great be taken against their Infidelity and Weak­ness.

The Duke of Bouillon, as may easily be judg­ed, was not prepared for this Conversation. In effect he was very uneasie to find himself ex­pos'd to it. But in the mean time, reflecting upon the Power, which Monsieur would have, if the King should die, and the Union there was between him and the Queen, which Secret de Thou had entrusted him withal; he thought, that though he had not given the Satisfaction to Monsieur which he might expect, in relation to Spain, yet at least he must not leave him without entring further into the Consideration of what might happen upon the Revolution they fore­saw: It was his Opinion, That if he should not deliver his Mind freely as to that Affair, it would bring a new Negotiation upon him, which, being manag'd by Cinqmars, would make him lose the Merit of his Resolution, though he should take one agreeable both to Monsieur and the Queen; because it would seem as if Cinqmars had perswaded him to it. Besides, though the Duke of Bouillon had no Presumption of him­self, which is common even to the greatest Men; yet he could not but apprehend, what Weight he might be in a Regency, when at the Head of an Army, that might maintain the Interests of the Royal Family against the Cardinal.

[Page 63] These Considerations oblig'd him to re-assume his Conversation with Monsieur; besides he was willing to prevent the Thoughts they might have of retiring to Sedan, after the Treaty with Spain, having gathered from Cinqmars his Discourse, that they had agreed to propose it to him.

He told Monsieur therefore, That he did not know what his Designs were, if the King should die; but considering the Confidence which his Highness had done him the Honour to place in him, he could not but represent to his Highness, That such a Person, as he, ought al­ways to lay the Foundations of his Interest and Forces within the Kingdom, rather than rely upon Strangers. That he might have remark'd, That when the Cardinal look'd upon him as his Enemy, he omitted nothing that might force him to go out of France: so that there was no doubt but in a Regency he would be much more desirous that he should take that Resolution. That being among the Enemies of the King­dom, it would always give a plausible Colour for suspecting his Intentions, and making the Parliaments and People abandon his Interests. That he was not of Cinqmars his Opinion, who thought they could arrest him if the King should die; That it was a thing without Example; and though the Cardinal were never so powerful yet he could not find any Body that would ven­ture to execute so rash a Design. That there was none but the Queen that could contest any thing with him during the Regency; and that if he could join Interest with Her Majesty, he saw no Probability that the Cardinal could so [Page 64] much as put himself into any condition of resist­ing 'em. However, if upon the King's Death he should believe it necessary for him to go out of France, Sedan should be an assur'd Retreat for him, the Queen, and Children of France, and that he would pass his word to espouse no other Interest but theirs.

Then Monsieur took the Duke of Bouillon, and Cinqmars, and carrying them apart from Fon­trailles, and D' Aubijoux, he acquainted the Duke of Bouillon with the Intelligence that was be­tween the Queen and him, and concluded with the testifying his great satisfaction in what he had told him; either because he really was plea­sed, or did not think it proper to advance any farther Proposals concerning Sedan, after such a Discourse as the Duke of Bouillon had made him.

When the Duke of Bouillon found himself alone with Cinqmars, he told him, that though the Conversation they came from had the success he desired, yet he could not hide from him the dissatisfaction he took at the manner with which the thing was done. For what reason, says he, was there to insinuate to Monsieur such a thing as a Retreat to Sedan? And what necessity of my speaking before him of a Treaty with Spain? Cinqmars having declar'd to him his own▪ con­cern for the trouble he saw him in: All this, continued he, engages you no farther: And I dare tell you, that considering the state of the King's Health, I think I have done you a consi­derable piece of Service; not only in reconcile­ing you to Monsieur▪ and in having oblig'd him to speak to you with so much Freedom: but [Page 65] likewise in that I have so dispos'd him, as to de­liver himself entirely up to you, as he will do, if he follows the design of retiring to Sedan: However I promise you to divert it, if you judge it inconvenient.

The Duke of Bouillon saw very well that Cinq­mars reasons were pure inventions, and that in effect his design was to engage him to Monsieur, gave him only this Answer; Remember, at least, that I never made any Promise of a Re­treat to Sedan, but in case the King should die. For whilst the King is alive, it would be a very odd sort of Conduct in me to be my Self at the Head of one of his Armies, whilst Monsieur and the Spaniards should make Sedan the Stage of a Civil War.

The next day the Duke of Bouillon related to de Thou the whole Conversation that he had with Monsieur, excepting the particular concerning the Spaniards. He told him likewise what had pass'd between him and Cinqmars, after their parting with Monsieur: adding, that how great a Favourite soever he might be, yet if in any other Encounter he should happen to act with him as he had done upon this occasion, they must assuredly break, and that he saw very well, that all the pains which he had taken so officiously, had no other ground for 'em but a desire to Em­barque him so far, as that he might be a support to him against the Cardinal.

De Thou did not excuse Cinqmars. He con­fess'd, that Youth made him often drive on fa­ster than was to be wisht for: and he repeated it several times to the Duke of Bouillon, that he would have him take care not to bring himself [Page 66] into trouble. These words made him under­stand, that de Thou knew Cinqmars design in re­lation to the Treaty with Spain, as in effect the thing proved afterwards to be true. For Cinq­mars had all along intrusted it with de Thou, who had us'd all his endeavours to dissuade him: But not being able to accomplish it, he had made Cinqmars pass his word to him, that no Person should know that he had any Cognizance of such a Treaty, no not so much as the Duke of Bou­illon. In short, we have seen before, how that de Thou rather than open himself to him con­cerning that matter in their Conversation at Li­meuil, suffer'd the Duke to judge very hardly, both of his own Conduct and Cinqmar's Proceed­ings.

At the same time the Duke of Bouillon ask'd de Thou if he had not heard that the King's Fa­vour to Cinqmars was decreasing. De Thou an­swer'd, that he had heard such a thing, and had told Cinqmars of it, who assur'd him it was ab­solutely false.

However, continued de Thou, that which makes me suspect that there may be some ground for these reports is, that Cinqmars ask'd me with some concern, if they had not spread themselves as far as the Duke of Bouillon. You may easily see then by this Curiosity, said the Duke of Bou­illon pleasantly, that I am a Person whom Cinq­mars would willingly intrust with the news of the advancement of his Fortune; but I am not one to whom he would discover the secret of its diminution.

The truth is, as the sequel demonstrated, that about this time the King began to give Cinqmars [Page 67] great Mortifications, but in private, being un­willing that the Courtiers should take any notice of it; either out of good Nature, or the Un­certainty he might be in of continuing his An­ger against a Favourite who had so natural and so great an Ascendant over him.

Cinqmars us'd to go every morning into the King's Chamber, the very moment he wak'd, and to be two hours with him there alone: But when the King was displeas'd with him, this Pri­vilege was deni'd him: and Cinqmars, lest any one should perceive the Alteration, came every day to the Louvre at the same time that he us'd to do, and entred at the Door of the Wardrobe, but instead of going directly into the King's Chamber, he remain'd conceal'd in a little Pas­sage that was hard by, where he diverted him­self with reading Romances, till the King call'd for those Officers whose Place it was to enter. Then the first Groom of the Chamber, who was Cinqmars his Confident, and in his Interests, let him in by a back Door, which was near that Passage; so that they who came in at the other Door finding him in the King's Chamber, and seeing the same Appearances of Privacy, thought his Favour likewise continued the same.

Whilst things were in this Posture, the Duke of Bouillon had several Conferences with the Cardinal, concerning the Affairs of Italy, and finding himself sufficiently instructed, he thought, things standing thus at Court, the best way he could take, was to go to Turenne, under pre­tence of preparing his Equipage.

[Page 68] He went then to St. Germains, to consult with the Cardinal about his departure, but he found that he was at Ruel, and that he would not be back till Night: He resolv'd to tarry for him, and Cinqmars having desired his Company at Dinner, he went thither, and carried de Thou with him.

Persons of the greatest Quality often eat with Cinqmars, even they who were most devoted to the Cardinal, and his Relations: For Cinqmars all along kept the Measures of Decency with this Minister; and had several times been reconciled to him as sincerely as Reconciliations generally are made at Court; where after having been very highly offended, there are Treaties still to be made for returning into Favour.

At dinner-time Cinqmars began several plea­sant Discourses, in which there appear'd an ex­traordinary Gaiety. This only increas'd the Duke and de Thou's Suspicion, concerning his Favour: for they thought they saw Affectation in all he said, and much more Trouble than Freedom of Thought: whether they were pre­judic'd, or else, in truth, it is never so hard to speak without Concern, as when one talks for fear one's Silence should be taken notice of.

After Dinner, the Duke of Bouillon being a­lone with Cinqmars and Fontrailles, Cinqmars could not forbear speaking of his Hatred to the Cardinal, and passing thence to the Treaty with Spain.

The Duke of Bouillon was not at all displeas'd at it, because he might shew Fontrailles that he had not chang'd his Opinion; but Fontrailles, upon the fresh Difficulties which the Duke suggested, [Page 69] took occasion to tell him, that there were, in­deed, shorter and more secure Methods against the Cardinal, if they would make use of them. Then Cinqmars look'd upon the Duke, who had chang'd the Discourse, as if he had not under­stood what Fontrailles said. Cinqmars minded it, and told him readily, that the other Methods, that Fontrailles would mention, were undoubtedly, That the Duke of Bouillon, instead of going into Italy, would let Monsieur retreat into Sedan, and go himself thither with him to declare War against the Cardinal. The Duke of Bouillon answered, That he would keep to what he had concluded on, and advance no farther: Besides, he told 'em That Sedan was indeed a very good Place, but, he was confident, that it could not hold out long a­gainst a great Army; because there were two Posts near it, which they could not maintain; and they being taken, the Town must undoubt­edly follow them. That when-ever they made any account of Sedan, they must, at the same time, consider how to gather thither an Army, that should be able to enter France, and to hazard a Battle there immediately. Thus the Conversa­tion ended; and at Night, the Cardinal being come from Ruel, the Duke of Bouillon went to find him, and was told, that when he pleas'd he might be going to Turenne.

The Duke of Bouillon now seeing his Depar­ture to be at his own Disposal; the first Thought that came into his Mind, was to re­turn to Paris, to take his leave of Monsieur, be­fore Cinqmars should have time to prepare him to make fresh Instances, concerning Sedan, and the Treaty with Spain.

[Page 70] The Duke of Bouillon was scarce come to Luxemburgh-House, where Monsieur lodg'd then, but de Thou came to tell him, that an Account was just come to the King, That Mareschal de Guebriant had defeated Lamboy, the General of the Imperial Army. This gave the Duke of Bouillon occasion to tell Monsieur in private, that the News could not but make him consider, that after this Blow, which the Spaniards had recei­ved, it was easie to judge, that nothing could be expected from them; and that Mareschal Gue­briant being posted so advantageously as he was, their Affairs would be entirely ruin'd in Flan­ders, should the Hollanders never so little favour France. To which Monsieur answered never a Word.

The same day de Thou received a Billet from Cinqmars, which desired him to endeavour that the Duke of Bouillon might come and lie at St. Germains. He shew'd it to the Duke, who told him he had heard that Monsieur was gone thi­ther, and it was easie to guess, that this was the Reason why Cinqmars was so pressing for his coming; but that he could not go to take his leave of the King, till Monsieur was re­turned to Paris; as indeed he was at that time.

When the Duke of Bouillon came to bid the Cardinal adieu, that which pass'd between 'em, was, in Reality, nothing but a Repetition of what was said the same day that the Cardinal had pro­pos'd to him this Employment in Italy: but he added this Excess of Civility, That he himself would carry him to the King to take his leave.

[Page 71] The Duke of Bouillon and Cinqmars parted likewise, without having any thing that was new pass between 'em. The Duke staying two or three days in Paris, upon his own private Con­cerns, Cinqmars came to bid him once more adieu, and renew'd to him all the Protestations of Friendship that he had already made him.

The Duke of Bouillon passing through Limo­ges, Fontrailles came thither almost as soon as he, and making him a Visit at the Bishop of Limoges his Pallace, where he lodg'd, told him that he was going to Madrid upon Monsieur's Account, to Treat with the Spaniards; and that looking upon him as the Person on whom the Weight of all their Affairs must lie, he desir'd him, above all things, to take care of the Preservation of his Person. To this the Duke answered, That he could not comprehend but that Monsieur had en­tirely abandon'd the Design of this Treaty, after what he had represented to him con­cerning the State of the Spanish Affairs in Flanders, since the Defeat of Lamboy: That, for his own part, he might easily perceive that this ill Success had not chang'd his former Di­spositions; and so he desired him not to menti­on his Name upon any Account, throughout the whole Negotiation; because he was now more resolv'd than ever, not to enter into any Treaty with the Spaniards during his whole Life.

Fontrailles us'd all his Endeavours to draw some word from him, that might not be so pe­remptory; but his Reasons could not prevail, the Duke still repeating the same thing.

Towards the end of March, Monmort going to Tholouse, rode Post through Turenne. He [Page 72] was a Gentleman of Quality and Merit, devo­ted to Cinqmars, and more his Confident than Fontrailles himself; Cinqmars had charg'd him to tell the Duke, That it was a thing of the greatest Importance to them, that he should speak with him once more, he desired him instantly to take his Measures so, that in going into Italy, he might meet him at Lyons, when the King should pass that way in his Journey to Catalonia. But on the contrary, the Duke of Bouillon delayed his Departure, on purpose that he might not meet him there; not only that he might avoid the trouble of new Proposals, but because Cinq­mars had appointed a great number of Gentle­men of Auvergne, his Friends, to meet him there, which caus'd the Duke to make his Re­flections upon what Fontrailles had said; That there were more secure and expeditious Me­thods for the ruining the Cardinal, than an open War.

The Duke of Bouillon therefore did not part from Turenne, before he judg'd by the News he receiv'd from Court, that it was already re­mov'd from Lyons, and so he could not meet it in his way. The Dutchess of Bouillon bore him Company for some days, and afterwards retur­ned to Sedan, with her Children.

When the Duke of Bouillon lay at Tarare near Lyons, Monmort came thither Post the same Night. Cinqmars had sent him after the Duke of Bouillon, to tell him, that the Cardinal lay a dying: That, for himself, he had never been so much in the King's Favour as he was at pre­sent; and so he hop'd, in a little time, the Duke [Page 73] of Bouillon would have no cause to repent his ha­ving admitted him to such a share in his Friend­ship.

Monmort added farther, That Fontrailles was come back from Madrid with a Treaty Sign'd in as ample manner as Monsieur had desir'd, but in the condition that the Cardinal was then, there would be no need of it.

The Duke of Bouillon, after having answer'd Cinqmars his Complements, desir'd Monmort to tell him, that Monsieur was very happy that he should be in no want of Spanish Succors, because by a Letter that he had receiv'd from Liege, he was better assur'd than ever, that they were not able to spare him any that would be consider­able.

The Cardinal was really very sick some few days after his departure from Lyons, and conti­nued so upon the Rode, and was carried to Ta­rascon, whilst the King went to the Siege of Per­pignan: but it was not his Illness only that ob­lig'd him to stay there. The Power which Cinq­mars had over the King, was so far increas'd, during this Journey, that the Cardinal thought he had reason to be much afraid of it; and if the publick saw plainly this advance in the King's Favour, by the exteriour marks of it: the Car­dinal saw still better by what pass'd in the ma­nagement of Affairs, and the manner that the King often us'd to speak to him concerning this Favourite: Cinqmars himself was so far from concealing this Happiness, that he lost no oppor­tunity of having it took notice of.

It seem'd to the Cardinal, that the King was wholly alter'd as to him, and that the Face of [Page 74] the Court chang'd likewise in favour of Cinqmars. In short, this Minister, and his Creatures, lay under such great uncertainties, that he had it in deliberation, whether instead of going to the King when his health would permit, he should not wholly retreat and write him word, that the occasion of his removal was, because he could no longer have any security for himself near his Person; Cinqmars being his declar'd Enemy, and having engag'd almost the whole Court in his Cabal.

In the mean time the King fell sick before Per­pignan, and was carried to Narbonne, where it was infallibly believ'd he would have died.

Cinqmars sent a Courier to Monsieur to ac­quaint him with it. He was advanc'd as far as Bourbon, under pretence of drinking the Waters, and he had no sooner receiv'd the news of the King's Condition; but that he sent the Count D' Aubijeux Post away to find the Duke of Bou­illon with all Diligence.

D' Aubijoux carried only a single Credential, and was to demand of the Duke of Bouillon the necessary Orders for the receiving of Monsieur, the Queen, and her two Children into Sedan.

D' Aubijoux had contracted a very strict Friendship with the Duke of Bouillon. He was a Man of great Quality, of the Family of D' Am­boise, and had the reputation of much Honour and Courage. The Duke of Bouillon kept him three days conceal'd in the Camp, not being able to determine what to do, and in the Con­versation they had together, the Duke of Bou­illon oftentimes repeated to him the same things he had already told to Monsieur, when he saw [Page 75] him at Venice House, and they spoke about Se­dan, the Treaty with Spain, and what was to be done if the King should chance to die. For in­deed the more the Duke thought of it, he was the less able to comprehend, that the Queen and Monsieur should ever imagine, that upon the King's Death they should be oblig'd to leave the Kingdom: so that when he join'd these Argu­ments which possest his Mind, to the memory of what had pass'd between Mounsieur, Cinq­mars, and himself, he could scarce doubt but this last instance about Sedan was a pure Artifice of Cinqmars. The Pretext of providing a Retreat for the Queen, her Children, and Monsieur, was very plausible and glorious for the Duke of Bou­illon: But he had all the reason in the World to fear, lest by this Engagement he should find himself Embarqu'd with the Spaniards, to main­tain a Civil War against his own Inclinati­ons.

In the mean time, D' Aubijoux, who knew with what impatience his return was expected, omitted nothing that might remove the Duke's Suspicions, and the Duke of Bouillon did not doubt but that if they had a design of deceiving him, they would not have begun it with decei­ving D' Aubijoux: Besides, he had been several times assur'd by D' Aubijoux, that he was too much his Servant not to admonish him: That if he should send him back, without agreeing to any thing, he might be certain, Monsieur would resent it mortally; and if the King, as it was probable, should dye at Narbonne, it was easy to apprehend, that in the posture things would be then, it would be of no small consequence, to [Page 76] have the Cardinal for his conceal'd Enemy, and Monsieur for his profest one.

The Duke of Bouillon had resisted all these Considerations: but at last there arriv'd an ex­press from Court, with Letters for him and se­veral Officers in the Army, which all imported, That the King's Life was despaired of.

Then the Duke of Bouillon fix'd his resolution, and gave D' Aubijoux the Letters he demanded; but with this precaution, that he made him swear, they should not go out of his hands till after the King's Death; and that if the King should recover, he would keep 'em to give him again, or else burn 'em, if he found any danger like to be in preserving them.

Whatever hast D' Aubijoux could make, he found things strangely alter'd at his return. The King was out of Danger, and the Cardinal, a­midst his Fears and Uncertainties, had advice of the Journey which Fontrailles had made to Ma­drid; and waiting till he could learn more, he in the mean time sent Chavigni, Secretary of State, to acquaint the King with it, but gave him express Order to engage his Majesty, upon his Conscience, to keep the Secret. However Cinqmars perceived some alteration in the King. He spoke of it to Fontrailles, who advis'd him to retire to Monsieur. Fontrailles seeing he could not perswade him to take this Resolution, gave the Duke of Espernon a Challenge, that he might have a pretence to go from Court, without in­creasing the suspicions that might arise against Cinqmars, by his absence: after this he disguis'd himself, and got safe into England.

Cinqmars sent Monsieur advice how things [Page 77] stood. Monsieur desired him to come to Mou­lin's at a day appointed, and that he was re­solv'd to get out of the Kingdom by the way of Franche-Comté.

In the mean time, the Cardinal who set every thing at Work, to discover the cause of Fon­trailles's Journey, by some means got a Copy of the Treaty with Spain; though no one could ever yet learn, how he came by it, nor from whom. The same moment he sent Chavigni to shew it to the King, with Orders to assure his Majesty, that this Copy was taken from the O­riginal, and that, upon his Life, he should have Proofs of it. Cinqmars and de Thou were imme­diately Arrested, and necessary Orders were di­spatch'd with speed for the Observation of Mon­sieur. But when he saw that he had lost the Op­portunity of saving himself by the Franche-Com­té, he be thought himself of sending the Abbot de la Riviere, who was his Favourite to the Court. He gave him a Letter to the Cardinal, which express'd his hearty Repentance in very passionate Terms, and his Desire that his Par­don might be owing to him. The King, at the Cardinal's Intercession, promis'd to forgive him all, upon Condition, That Monsieur should de­clare the Truth. In short, the Abbot de la Ri­viere manag'd the business so well, that his Ma­ster, mov'd with the Cardinal's Proceedings, and the King's Goodness, confess'd, in general, what had pass'd, excus'd himself for having burnt the Original of the Spanish Treaty: gave a Co­py of it, which he signed to certifie it, and made it be counter-sign'd by the Secretary of his Dispatches.

[Page 78] When the Cardinal had got so important a Piece in his hands, he sent a Dispatch to Paris, to order the Chancellour to come with all speed, that He with the Commissaries might frame a Process against Cinqmars and de Thou: In the mean time they were sent to Lyons: and because Fontrailles, to give the Spaniards a greater Idea of the Party, had not omitted the Duke of Bou­illon's Name in the Treaty, notwithstanding all his Praecautions; and had assured them that he would ratifie it, and deliver Sedan for a Place of Retreat, a Messenger was dispatch'd with great Speed into Italy, to have him Ar­rested.

The Orders were directed to the General Of­ficers that commanded under him, the Count du Plessis-Praslin, Couvonges, and Castelan: When they had all three consulted together, a­bout the Manner how they should put them in Execution, they agreed, that they ought to defer it till the next day, when the Duke of Bouillon would go to visit the Cittadel of Casal, judging they could not, without danger, attempt to Arrest him at the Head of the Army; so great was the Veneration they had for him, and the Esteem that he had gain'd among them. He had found so extravagant a Licentiousness in the Army, that nothing was wanting to a Revolt, but a Man to Head 'em; and yet by his great Cares, and the perfect Knowledge he had in the Orders of War, he had reduc'd it, in six Weeks time, to a most exemplary Discipline, without the Exe­cution of more than two Soldiers: so that per­haps never any General, in so little time, gain­ed the Reputation of a Great Commander, with­out [Page 79] besieging any Place, or fighting any Battle, or having any considerable Enemy to make Head against him.

The Army was then near Casal, Couvonges who was Governour of it went thither betimes, to set all things in order. The Duke of Bouil­lon carried Castelan along with him, and left the Count du Plessis to command in the Camp.

After the Duke of Bouillon had supp'd in the Cittadel, he went down into the Town, where his Lodgings were prepared, and by the way meeting with an Officer, that was just come from the Army; he ask'd him what News from thence? the Officer told him, he knew of none, but that if there were any he might be inform'd of it by the Count du Plessis, who had arriv'd there long before him. The Duke of Bouillon turning himself to Couvonges, told him, that he did not understand what the Count du Plessis meant, by leaving the Army without his Order. Couvonges answer'd him with much Concern, that he had been at Casal but one Moment: and drawing nearer, gave him in his Ear so mean an Excuse for his coming, that the Duke of Bouillon began to have some Suspicions, and immediately after retired to his Chamber, saying he would write his Dispatches.

Couvonges, who had taken notice of the Duke of Bouillon's Surprize, as the Duke had likewise done of his, went immediately to the Count du Plessis to tell him what had happen'd. He had conceal'd him in a Lodging near the Duke of Bouillon, for they had resolv'd among themselves, [Page 80] not to Arrest him till he should be in Bed. The Chance fell to Couvonges to carry him word of it; but he had already conceiv'd so much Esteem and Respect for the Duke of Bouillon, that he could never bring himself to the Resolution of Arresting him in the Cittadel, and it seem'd to him, that by Arresting him in the Town, he should only break the Laws of Hospitality in a less Degree, and have fewer Difficulties in effe­cting a Design that could never be defended. Couvonges having related to the Count du Plessis and Castelan what had pass'd between the Duke of Bouillon and himself, they both judg'd that there would be danger in deferring the Executi­on one Moment. Couvonges return'd directly to the Duke of Bouillon's Chamber, and finding him walking there desired a word with him in pri­vate, pretending that a Spy had brought him considerable News from the Enemy. When the Duke of Bouillon had order'd those about him to retire; Couvonges began with the Compliments that are usual upon such Occasions, that he was extremely concern'd at the Orders he had recei­ved from the King to Arrest him as his Prisoner. The Duke of Bouillon told him, that if he had an Order it was Counterfeited, and desired to see it. Couvonges told him, that he had left it with the Count du Plessis, who was not far off. Then the Duke of Bouillon bad him go fetch it; and, laying his hand upon his Sword, told him, He knew nothing that might hinder him from running it through his Body, for having under­stood his Duty so little, as to dare to Arrest such a Person as he was, without the Order for it in his Hand. Couvonges having been concern'd [Page 81] before at his undertaking this thing, and more troubled now at this Accident, return'd to Praslin who was then in the Court.

The Duke of Bouillon, without losing time, or making any noise, put out the Lights in his Chamber, and got into the street by a Back-door, there he met St. Aubin who was his Harbinger. After having intrusted him with the Condition he was in, he bid him follow him, took his Cloak the better to disguise himself, and went directly to the Rampiers, to try if they could find a place by which they might escape: but he judg'd it impossible, after having thrown down stones in several places, to learn the height of the Walls. St. Aubin offer'd to cast himself down to make a more certain Proof of the Danger. But the Duke of Bouillon thought it plain enough already, and would not consent to it.

At this time, seeing they were going the Round, the Duke of Bouillon retir'd back; he stay'd among some Ruines, and sent St. Aubin to the Town, to see what had pass'd there, and to buy some Ropes, not despairing still, but by the favour of the Night, he should make his Escape over the Wall. But St. Aubin came back the mo­ment after, and told him there were Guards at all the Avenues, which hinder'd Folks from passing, and that a Soldier had told him, that all the People were in Arms, upon a Report which was spread, That the Duke of Bouillon would deli­ver Casal to the Spaniards. The Duke of Bouil­lon imagining, that perhaps St. Aubin might be in greater Apprehensions than he had grounds for, went to the Place that he saw him come [Page 82] from, and found there that not only what St. Aubin had told him was true, but heard himself likewise proscrib'd: for 'twas proclaim'd by the Sound of Trumpet, That he who took him alive or dead should receive a Thousand Pistols.

In this Extremity the Duke finding himself near a Court through which there was no Pas­sage, and seeing a Victualling-House thereabouts, he went into it under pretence of Drinking. He found no Body in the House but one Woman. But the Husband, who had run out upon the Noise in the Town, came back soon after, and told him all he had heard concerning this Disor­der. The Duke of Bouillon, seeing he had nothing else to trust to, thought of engaging this Fellow; and because he imagin'd he should work better upon him in his Wife's Absence, he gave her Money to go fetch some Wine. Then he disco­vered himself to the Husband, gave him his Purse, in which were about Twenty or Thirty Pieces of Gold, with a Promise to make his Fortune. In short, the Duke had gain'd so far upon him, that before his Wife was return'd, St. Aubin was gone back with Orders concern­ing what was to be done, and the Man had hid the Duke in a Hay-loft, after he had promis'd to effect his Escape the Night following, and that he would say nothing of it to his Wife. But he could not forbear imparting this Secret to her, nor his Wife delay going to reveal it to Cou­vonges betimes the next Morning. Couvonges went immediately to see if the Advice were true, and made some Soldiers get up into the Hay-loft. The Duke of Bouillon finding him­self discover'd, drew his Sword, and threatned [Page 83] to kill the first Man that came near him. There was one that fir'd a Pistol at him, but it did not go off. Then Couvonges, hearing the Bustle, got up presently by a Rope-Ladder, and told the Soldiers he would hang up the first Man that should touch the Duke of Bouillon.

The Commotion was so great and so general throughout Casal, by reason of the Hatred, which they bore the Spaniards, and the Report, which had been spread, That the Duke would make 'em Masters of the Place; that, what-ever Care they could take, yet, it was a great deal of Trouble to secure him from the Fury of the People, when he pass'd through the Town. But because the Orders were to carry the Duke immediately to the Castle of Pierre-Encise, they put him bound into a Coach, with such a Guard, as might shew of what Importance they judg'd his Escape might be to them.

Cinqmars and de Thou were already in the Ca­stle, when the Duke of Bouillon came thither. The same day they found an Opportunity of conveighing a Billet to him, which gave him a perfect Insight into the Posture of Affairs. For the generality it is a great Comfort and Advan­tage to a Prisoner to receive News, but the Duke of Bouillon at present paid very dear for both of them.

It is impossible to express his Indignation, when he found that Fontrailles had not only as from Monsieur promis'd the King of Spain, that the Duke of Bouillon would enter into the Trea­ty, and deliver up Sedan as a Place of Retreat; but that in the same Treaty he had requested, and obtain'd a Pension for him. We may guess [Page 84] likewise what Addition it was to his Trouble, to find that Monsieur having given a Copy of the Treaty in Form, had not mentioned in the Declaration he had join'd to it, what the Condi­tions were, upon which, and no other, the Duke of Bouillon had promis'd to receive him into Se­dan; for this Point was not clear'd, either be­cause Monsieur durst not disavow what Fontrailles had done in his Name, in a Treaty now made publick; or that it was too great a Mortificati­on to shew the King what Projects he had laid upon his Death, and to let the Cardinal see, how much he was afraid of him.

In the mean time, the Chancellour, with great diligence, had given Instructions for the Process against Cinqmars and de Thou, who were both condemn'd to be beheaded; one, as the Au­thour of a Treaty with Spain, the other, for knowing and yet not revealing it.

It is not possible for a Man to go to his Death, with more Courage, or greater marks of a Chri­stian Piety, than both of them demonstrated. Cinqmars, being ready to mount the Scaffold, wrote to his Mother, to desire her, to pay some of his Creditours; and shew'd in the Letter both the Tranquillity of his Mind, and the Care he had of his Conscience.

De Thou, being better read in Divinity, made admirable Discourses upon the Psalms and New Testament. There appear'd in all his Expressi­ons a lively Faith, and an entire Resignation as to things of this World: yet, in short, though in this last Action of their Lives, they both of 'em gave equal Demonstrations of their Constancy, yet it is hard, considering the Dis­proportion [Page 85] of their Age and Fortune, not to be so favourable to Cinqmars, as to allow him some larger Proportion of the Glory.

The Duke of Bouillon having but a small Knowledge in the Laws of the Kingdom, was perswaded, that he had acted only like a Man of Honour, in not revealing his Friends Secret, and it was sufficient to excuse him from any Guilt of Treason, That he had never given any Powers, nor signed any Treaty that was made with Spain. But when he heard of de Thou's Condemnation, he doubted not of his own Ruine, and for three days, that he continued without receiving any News, he did nothing but prepare himself for Death. However no Sentence was pronounc'd against him, either for want of Proofs, or through the Instances made by the Viscount Tu­renne his Brother, who was very Considerable, and grew daily more so, by his extraordinary Actions and signal Services.

But that which contributed more effectually than any thing to the Duke of Bouillon's Safety, was, That as soon as ever his Dutchess had the News of his Seizure, she dispatched her Sister-in-Law, Madamoiselle de Bouillon, who was a Princess of great Parts, and capable of Business, immediately away to Court. She ordered her to tell the Cardinal from Her, That, if he put her Husband to death, she would deliver Sedan to the Spaniards; and that he need not doubt it, since she had already sent to 'em to come thither. But when Madamoiselle de Bouillon saw de Thou executed, she went back to the Cardinal, to tell him, she had full Power to negotiate with him, and to engage in any thing for the Duke of Bou­illon's Life and Liberty.

[Page 86] At last the Treaty was concluded on. It was Agreed, That the King should have Sedan, and that he should give the Duke an Aequivalent in Lands within the Kingdom; That, whilst these Articles were in Execution, the Duke of Bouil­lon should come out of Prison, and the King's Troops enter into Sedan.

Mazarine, one of Cardinal Richlieu's Crea­tures, was sent thither to take Possession for the King, and to give all necessary Securities: The Dutchess of Bouillon being likewise perswaded, That both her Husband's Life and Liberty de­pended upon the rendring up of Sedan, parted with it as willingly as she would have receiv'd a considerable Favour, and went to Turenne, to meet the Duke of Bouillon, who was retired thither.

THE Third BOOK.

THE Year before, The Duke of Bou­illon arriv'd at Turenne, after having gain'd a Victory, and making so ad­vantagious a Peace, that his Glory had spread it self throughout all Europe: but now he came just out of a Prison, where he had been in great danger of his Life, depriv'd like­wise of the Sovereignty of one of the best places in the World. This unhappy State which ren­der'd him no farther now considerable than his own Personal Merit could make him, yet did not hinder the Nobility of the Neighbouring Provin­ces from coming in large Companies to visit him: and since they expected to find his thoughts in a posture conformable to his Affairs, they could not but admire to see no manner of alter­ation in so different a Fortune.

He convers'd with every one as he used to do before, agreeably to their humour, and the qua­lity of their Persons: But he never enter'd upon any Apology for what had pass'd, nor any insi­nuation of the hopes he might conceive for the future. As for the rest of his time he took ex­act Cognizance of his Revenue, and the condi­tion of his Estate; he enquir'd into the manage­ment [Page 88] of his Servants. In several places he set up Fathers to preach against the Reformed Reli­gion, which most of the Inhabitants thereabouts profest: and he himself enter'd so far into the Controversy, as to dispute with divers Gentle­men, some of which recanted afterwards: and in their private Affairs, he decided several Ca­ses, and reconciled as many differences. He spent everyday a set number of hours in reading, and particularly in the perusal of the ancient Fa­thers. He often hunted as well for Exercise as Diversion. He made very few Visits, because tho' Cardinal Richlieu look'd upon him as a Prince that was fallen beyond retrieve; yet he could not but have regard to him as an Enemy that would be ready for any undertaking, when a fa­vourable opportunity should present it self, ei­ther for his Revenge, or the Reestablishment of his Affairs. Besides, he had notice that the In­tendants and Governours of the Neighbouring Provinces had Orders to observe him. So he look'd upon Turenne, and his other Seats, as the places of his Exile. But by comporting himself after the manner I have spoke of, it is easie to judge that he was not dejected at it, and that it only encreased the esteem they had alrea­dy conceived of him. So true a thing it is, That when Fortune has reduced Great Men to a pri­vate Life, they are able to employ themselves so well as to maintain their Bravery and their Glory.

Five or six Months after his continuance at Turenne, Cardinal Richlieu died at Paris. The very moment that the Duke of Bouillon received the News, he ordered Prayers to be said for [Page 89] him in the Places that belong'd to him; either out of the pure Motive of Christian Charity; or else because a Personal Hatred makes so little Impression upon Men of great Souls, that they cannot carry it to the Graves of their most mor­tal Enemies.

The Duke of Bouillon did not change his Con­duct upon the Death of Cardinal Richlieu, but the Death of the King, which happened four or five Months after, made him take up new Reso­lutions. Seeing the Queen was declared Re­gent, and Monsieur the Duke of Orleans Presi­dent of the Council; the Duke of Bouillon had Reason to believe, and all France thought the same, That he could never expect a more favour­able Conjuncture. He therefore went for Paris. He was very kindly receiv'd by the Queen and Monsieur the Duke of Orleans, and the whole Court look'd upon him as a Person that could not fail of re-entring Sedan, and becoming more considerable now than ever. In the mean time, he perceived, by degrees, that their way of Treating him began to be much cooler than at first; and the Silence, as to his Affairs, which accompanied this Change, began to let him appre­hend, that if they had not intirely forgot the Los­ses he had sustain'd, and the Dangers he had run through, yet at least that Remembrance of them which remain'd, serv'd rather to make his Pre­sence seem importunate, than to inspire any Sentiments that might be to his Advantage. There could be no Addition to the Grief he conceiv'd at seeiug himself in so different a Con­dition from what he might reasonably have ex­pected: but he thought it Prudence to dissemble [Page 90] the Knowledge he had of this Misfortune, and, in the mean time, that he might be certain what to rely upon, he judg'd it con­venient to demand an Audience of the Queen and Monsieur. They both promis'd him one. But after having waited several days, to have a time assign'd him, they remitted him, at last, to the Abbot de la Riviere, whom they ordered to go and conferr with him, concerning his Pretensions.

The Duke of Bouillon declared to him, That he was willing to execute the Treaty, as to the Exchange of Sedan. But it being impossible that the Valuations that were to be made, the Con­firmations, and several other Formalities, that were absolutely necessary, should be finished un­der several Years, he desired, that, in the mean time, they would put him in Possession of the Place. Not that he had any design of keeping it; but, on the contrary, would, without any trouble, restore it into the King's hands the ve­ry moment that his Aequivalent was ready. That if it were so at present, he would make no Scru­ple in receiving it: But he foresaw Delays and infinite Disputes would arise if they should pro­ceed in this Affair, without having first deliver­ed him Sedan; because then they would treat of it as a Business that regarded him only: whereas if they saw him re-establish'd, they would look upon it as the King's Concern, for the extend­ing of his Frontiers by the Acquisition of a So­vereignty, and a Place so very strong, and so ve­ry important. That if none of those Reasons would move the Queen and Monsieur, he thought it his Duty to take the Liberty of representing [Page 91] to them, That both of them might die before things might be in a Condition of being settled; that then the Loss to his Family would be inevi­table; and that after all that had happened here­tofore, they were bound both in Honour and Conscience, not to let him be expos'd to this ut­most Misfortune. He added farther; That her Majesty and his Royal Highness were the two People in the World that had least Reason to distrust him; nevertheless, to shew the Sinceri­ty with which he would proceed, he offered to give them what-ever Praecautions they desired, even to the Delivery of his Children for Hosta­ges.

The Abbot de la Riviere answered the Duke of Bouillon with abundance of Compliments. But he told him, that having no farther Orders than to hear him, all that he could do was only to assure him, that he would report faithfully what-ever had been spoken, and it should not be his Fault, if he had not a favourable and a speedy Answer.

The Abbot de la Riviere as being Monsieur's declared Favourite, had for a long time had a great part in the most important Affairs of State, especially during the Regency. He was born at Paris, of a poor and mean Family. He was a Scholar: He had Wit, and made an agree­able Use of it, in every thing that might serve for his Master's Diversion. This was the chief Foundation upon which he rais'd himself. But after having been the Servant and Comptroller of his Master's Pleasures, he became so likewise of his Affairs and Fortune. He was a Courtier that studied his own Interest, rough and passio­nate [Page 92] at home, complaisant and submissive to all that were above him, but rude and insupporta­ble to all the World beside.

During the Minority he was nam'd for a Car­dinal. In the mean time, Monsieur perceived that he discover'd his Secrets to hasten his own Promotion at Rome, and advance his Fortune at Court. Then Monsieur abandon'd him for ever; but this Disgrace did not hinder him from dy­ing Bishop and Duke of Langres, and in great Wealth; yet condemned of all Men for having pass'd his Life without the gaining of one Friend, and still more blameable, for never seeing any of his Relations from the first Advancement of his Fortunes.

The Duke of Bouillon waited several days for an Answer to the Conference he had with the Abbot de la Riviere, and seeing that sometimes upon one Pretence, and sometimes another, he deferr'd the giving him any, he thought it his best way to address himself directly to the Queen and Monsieur. But they avoided speaking with him, and that with such an Aire, as plainly shew'd him that they did not like his Proposals. Then he return'd to the Abbot de la Riviere, to inform him farther concerning his Pretensions. After having enquired for him several times in vain, the Duke happen'd one day to be in his Anti-Chamber, when several Persons of Quality were coming from him; he ask'd likewise to see him, but a Valet de Chambre came to tell him in their Presence, that he was gone abroad. This Usage put the Duke of Bouillon out of all Pati­ence. He could not refrain being in a Fury, and [Page 93] telling the Valet aloud, that if it were not out of Respect to Monsieur, he would treat his Ma­ster after such a manner, that he should have Cause to remember so base a Proceeding as long as he liv'd. This Encounter was nois'd abroad the same day: and since Services which are a­bove Reward, often produce as dangerous Ef­fects as Injuries; The Queen and Monsieur took this Pretence of ridding themselves of the Duke of Bouillon and his Pretensions. They propos'd to the Council to have him Arrested. He was advis'd of it, and, without taking leave, went Post to Turenne.