The Revolutions of Portugal

by abbé de Vertot

Octob. 20.
1640.

Upon this several Councils were held at Madrid, in which it was resolv'd, that the only way to prevent the Portuguese from revolting, was by taking from them their Leader, in favour of whom it was suppos'd they intended to revolt. Wherefore d'Olivarez immediately dispatch'd a Courier to the Duke of Braganza, to acquaint him, that the King desir'd to be inform'd, by his own mouth, of the Strength of every Fort and Citadel, the Condition of the Sea-Ports, and what Garisons were plac'd in each of them: to this he added, that his Friends at Court were overjoy'd at the thoughts of seeing him so soon, and that every one of them were preparing to receive him with the Respect due to his Quality and Deserts.

This News thunder-struck the unhappy Prince; he was well assur'd, that since so many Pretences were made use of to get him into Spain, his Destruction was resolv'd on, and nothing less than his Life could satisfy them. They had left off Caresses and Invitations, and had now sent positive Orders, which either must be obey'd, or probably open Force would be made use of. He concluded, that he was betray'd. Such is the Fear of those, whose Thoughts are taken up with great Designs, and who always imagine that the inquisitive World is prying into their Actions, and observing all their Steps. Thus did the Duke, whose Conduct had been always greater than his Courage, dread that he had plung'd himself into inevitable Destruction.

But to gain time enough to give the Conspirators notice of his Danger, by the Advice of the Dutchess, he sent a Gentleman, whose Capacity and Fidelity he was before assur'd of, to the Court of Madrid, to assure the Spanish Minister, that he would suddenly wait on the King; but had at the same time given him private Orders to find out all the Pretences imaginable for the delaying his Journey, hoping in the mean time to bring the Conspiracy to Ripeness, and thereby to shelter himself from the impending Storm.

As soon as this Gentleman arriv'd at Madrid, he assur'd the King and the Duke d'Olivarez, that his Master follow'd him. To make his Story the more plausible, he took a large House, which he furnish'd very sumptuously, then hir'd a considerable Number of Servants, to whom he before-hand gave Liveries. In short, he spar'd no Cost to persuade the Spaniards that his Master would be in a very little time at Court, and that he intended to appear with an Equipage suitable to his Birth.

Some days after he pretended to have receiv'd Advice that his Master was fallen sick. When this Pretence was grown stale, he presented a Memorial to d'Olivarez, in which he desir'd that his Master's Precedence in the Court might be adjusted. He did not in the least question but that this would gain a considerable time, hoping that the Grandees, by maintaining their Rights, would oppose his Claims. But these Delays beginning to be suspected, the first Minister had the thing soon decided, and always in favour of the Duke of Braganza; so earnestly did he desire to see him once out of Portugal, and to have him safe at Madrid.

The Conspirators no sooner heard of the Orders which the Duke had receiv'd, but fearing that he might obey them, deputed Mendoza to know what he intended to do, and to engage him firmly, if possible, to their Party. This Gentleman was chosen preferably to any other, because he was Governor of a Town near Villa-viciosa; so that he could hide the real Intent of his Journey from the Spaniards, under the specious Pretence of Business. He did not dare to go directly to the Prince's House, but took an opportunity of meeting him in a Forest one morning as he was hunting; they retir'd together into the thickest part of the Wood, where Mendoza shew'd him what Danger he expos'd himself to, by going to a place where all were his Enemies: That by this inconsiderate Action the Hopes of the Nobility, as well as of the People, were utterly destroy'd: That a sufficient Number of Gentlemen, who were as able to serve him, as they were willing to do it, or to sacrifice their Lives for his sake, only waited for his Consent to declare themselves in his favour: That now was the very Crisis of his Fate, and that he must this instant resolve to be Cæsar or nothing: That the Business would admit of no longer Delay, lest the Secret being divulg'd, their Designs should prove abortive. The Duke, convinc'd of the Truth of what was said to him, told him that he was of his mind, and that he might assure his Friends, that as soon as their Plot should be ripe, he would put himself at the head of them.

This Conference ended, Mendoza immediately return'd home, for fear of being suspected, and wrote to some of the Conspirators that he had been hunting; "We had almost, continued he, lost our Game in the Pursuit, but at last the Day prov'd a Day of good Sport." Some few Days after Mendoza return'd to Lisbon, and acquainted Pinto that his Master wanted him, who set out as soon as they had together drawn out a shorter Scheme to proceed upon. Coming to Villa-viciosa, the first thing he acquainted the Duke with, was the Difference which had lately happen'd at the Court of Lisbon, the Vice-Queen loudly complaining of the haughty Pride and Insolence of Vasconcellos; nor could she any longer bear that all Business should be transacted by him, whilst she enjoy'd an empty Title, without any the least Authority. What made her Complaints the juster, was, that she was really a deferring Princess, and capable of discharging the Trust which was committed to her Secretary. But it was the Greatness of her Genius, and her other extraordinary Deserts, which made the Court of Spain unwilling to let her have a greater share in the Government. Pinto observ'd, that this Difference could never have happen'd in a better time, seeing that the Ministers of Spain being taken up with this Business, would not be at leisure to pry into his Actions, or to observe the Steps he should take.

The Duke of Braganza, since Mendoza's Departure, was fallen into his wonted Irresolution, and the nearer the Business came to a Crisis, the more he dreaded the Event: Pinto made use of all his Rhetorick to excite his Master's Courage, and to draw him into his former Resolution. Nay, to his Persuasions he added Threatnings; he told him, in spite of himself, the Conspirators would proclaim him King, and what Dangers must he run then, when the Crown should be fix'd upon his Head, at a time when, only for want of necessary Preparation, he was not capable of preserving it. The Dutchess join'd with this faithful Servant, and convinc'd the Duke of the Baseness of preferring Life to Honour: he, charm'd with her Courage, yet asham'd to see it greater than his own, yielded to their Persuasions.

Mean while, the Gentleman whom he had sent to Madrid, wrote daily to let him know, that he could no longer defer his Journey on any pretence whatsoever, and that Olivarez refus'd to hear the Excuses which he would have made. The Duke, to gain a little longer time, order'd the Gentleman to acquaint the Spanish Minister, that he had long since been at Madrid, had he had Money enough to defray the Expence of his Journey, and to appear at Court in a manner suitable to his Quality: That as soon as he could receive a sufficient Sum, he would immediately set out.

This Business dispatch'd, he consulted with the Dutchess and Pinto about the properest Means of executing their Design: several were propos'd, but at last this was agreed upon, That the Plot must break out at Lisbon, whose Example might have a good effect upon the other Towns and Cities of the Kingdom: That the same Day wherein he was proclaim'd King in the Metropolis, he should be also proclaim'd in every Place which was under his Dependance; nay, in every Borough and Village, of which any of the Conspirators were the leading Men, they should raise the People, so that one half of the Kingdom being up, the other of course would fall into their Measures, and the few remaining Spaniards would not know on which side to turn their Arms. His own Regiment he should quarter in Elvas, whose Governour was wholly in his Interest. That as for the manner of their making themselves Masters of Lisbon, Time and Opportunity would be their best Counsellors; however, the Duke's Opinion was, that they should seize the Palace in the first place, so that by securing the Vice-Queen, and the Spaniards of Note, they would be like so many Hostages in their hands, for the Behaviour of the Governour and Garison of the Citadel, who otherwise might very much annoy 'em when they were Masters of the Town. After this, the Duke having assur'd Pinto, that notwithstanding any Change of Fortune, he should still have the same place in his Affection; he sent him to Lisbon with two Letters of Trust, one for Almeida, the other for Mendoza; wherein he conjur'd 'em to continue faithful to their Promises, and resolutely and courageously to finish what they had begun.

As soon as he arriv'd at Lisbon, he deliver'd his Letters to Almeida and Mendoza, who instantly sent for Lemos and Coreo, whom Pinto had long since engag'd in the Interest of his Master. These were two rich Citizens, who had gone thro all the Offices of the City, and had the People of it very much at their command; as they still carry'd on their Trade, there were a vast Number of poor People daily employ'd by 'em, and whose Hatred to the Spaniards they had still taken care to encrease, by insinuating that there were new Taxes to be laid upon several things at the beginning of the next Year. When they observ'd any one of a fiery Temper, they would take care to discharge him, on pretence that the Castilians had utterly ruin'd their Trade, and that they were no longer able to employ them; but their Aim was to reduce them to Poverty and Want, insomuch that Necessity should oblige them to revolt: but still would they extend their Charity towards them, that they might always have them at their service. Besides this, they had engag'd some of the ablest Merchants and Tradesmen in every part of Lisbon, and promis'd, that if the Conspirators would give 'em warning over night of the Hour they intended to rise, punctually at that time they would have half the City up in Arms.

Pinto being thus sure of the Citizens, turn'd his Thoughts to the other Conspirators: he advis'd them to be ready for the Execution of their Plot upon the first notice given them; that mean while he would have them pretend they had some private Quarrel, and engage their Friends to assist them, for many, he observ'd, were not fit to be entrusted with so important a Secret, and others could not in cold Blood behold the Dangers they must go thro, and yet both be very serviceable when Matters were ripe, and only their Swords wanted.

Dec. 1.
1640.

Finding every body firm in their Resolutions, and impatient to revenge themselves upon the Spaniards, he conferr'd with Almeida, Mendoza, Almada, and Mello, who fix'd upon Saturday, the first of December, for the great, the important Day: Notice was immediately given to the Duke of Braganza, that he might cause himself to be proclaim'd King the same day in the Province of Alentejo, most part of which belong'd to him. After which they agreed upon meeting once more before the time.

On the Twenty-fifth of November, according to their Agreement, they met at Braganza-House, where mustering their Forces, they found that they could depend upon about One Hundred and Fifty Gentlemen, (most of them Heads of Families) with their Servants and Tenants, and about Two Hundred substantial Citizens, who could bring with them a considerable Number of inferior Workmen.

Vasconcellos's Death was unanimously resolv'd on, as a just Victim, and which would be grateful to the People. Some urg'd, that the Archbishop of Braga deserv'd the same Fate, especially considering the Strength of his Genius, and the Greatness of his Courage; for it was not to be suppos'd that he would be an idle Looker-on, but would probably be more dangerous than the Secretary himself could be, by raising all the Spaniards who were in Lisbon, with their Creatures; and that whilst they were busy in making themselves Masters of the Palace, he, at the head of his People, might fling himself into the Citadel, or come to the assistance of the Vice-Queen, to whose Service he was entirely devoted; and that at such a time as this, Pity was unseasonable, and Mercy dangerous.

These Considerations made the greatest part of the Assembly consent to the Prelate's Death; and he had shar'd Vasconcellos's Fate, had not[D] Don Miguel d'Almeida interpos'd. He represented to the Conspirators, that the Death of a Man of the Prelate's Character and Station, would make them odious to the People; that it would infallibly draw the Hatred of the Clergy, and of the Inquisition in particular, (a People who at this Juncture were to be dreaded) upon the Duke of Braganza, to whom they would not only give the Names of Tyrant and Usurper, but whom they would also excommunicate; that the Prince himself would be sorely griev'd to have the Day stain'd with so cruel an Action; that he himself would engage to watch him so closely on that Day, that he should not have an Opportunity of doing any thing which might be prejudicial to the common Cause. In short, he urg'd so many things in his behalf, that the Prelate's Life was granted, the Assembly not being able to deny any thing to so worthy an Advocate.

Nothing now remain'd but to regulate the Order of the March and Attack, which was agreed upon in this manner: They should divide into four Companies, which should enter the Palace by four different Ways; so that all the Avenues to it being stopt, the Spaniards might have no Communication with, or be able to assist one another: That Don Miguel d'Almeida, with his, should fall on the German Guard, at the Entrance of the Palace: That Mello Lord Ranger, his Brother, and Don Estevan d'Acugna, should attack the Guard, which was always set at a Place call'd the Fort: That the Lord-Chamberlain Emanuel Saa, Teillo de Menezes, and Pinto, should enter Vasconcellos's Apartment, whom they must immediately dispatch: That Don Antonio d'Almada, Mendoza, Don Carlos Norogna, and Antonio Salsaigni, should seize the Vice-Queen, and the Spaniards which were with her, to serve for Hostages, in case of need. Mean while, some of the Gentlemen, with a few of the most reputable Citizens, should proclaim Don John, Duke of Braganza, King of Portugal throughout the City; and that the People being rais'd by their Acclamations, they should make use of them to assist, wherever they found any Opposition. After this they resolv'd to meet on the first of December in the morning, some at Almeida's, some at Almada's, and the rest at Mendoza's House, where every Man should be furnish'd with necessary Arms.

While these things were transacting at Lisbon, and that the Duke's Friends were using all their Endeavours for his Re-establishment, he receiv'd an Express from Olivarez, (who grew very jealous of his Conduct) with positive Orders to come immediately to Madrid; and that he might have nothing to colour his Delay, he remitted him a Bill upon the Royal Treasury for Ten Thousand Ducats.

The Commands laid upon him were so plain and positive, that the Duke could not put off his Journey without justly encreasing his Suspicion. He plainly foresaw, that if he did not obey those Orders, the Court of Madrid would take some such Measures as might prove fatal to him, and wholly destroy their Projection; he would not therefore refuse to obey, but made part of his Houshold immediately set out, and take the Madrid Road. In the presence of the Courier he gave several Orders relating to the Conduct of those he left his Deputy-Governours, and in all respects behav'd himself like a Man who was going a long Journey. He dispatch'd a Gentleman to the Vice-Queen, to give her notice of his Departure, and wrote to Olivarez, that he would be at Madrid in eight Days time at farthest; and that he might engage the Courier to report all these things, he made him a considerable Present, under pretence of rewarding him for his expeditious Haste, in bringing him Letters from the King, and his first Ministers. At the same time he let the Conspirators know what new Orders he had receiv'd from Court, that they might see the Danger of deferring the Execution of their Design; but they were scarce in a Capacity of assisting him, an Accident having happen'd, which had almost broken all their Measures.

There was at Lisbon a Nobleman, who on all Occasions had shewn an immortal Hatred to the Spanish Government; he never call'd them any thing but Tyrants and Usurpers, and would openly rail at their unjust Proceedings, but nothing anger'd him more than the Expedition of Catalonia: d'Almada having taken care to fall often into his Company, thought there was not a truer-hearted Portuguese in the whole Kingdom, and that no one would more strenuously labour for their Liberty. But oh Heaven! how great was his Surprize! when having taken him aside, and discover'd the whole Conspiracy to him, this base, this cowardly Wretch, whose whole Courage was plac'd in his Tongue, refus'd to have any hand in the Business, or to engage himself with the Conspirators, pretending that their Plot had no solid Foundation: Bold and adventrous where no Danger was, but fearful and daunted as soon as it appear'd. "Have you, said he to Almada, Forces enough to undertake so great a thing? Where is your Army to oppose the Troops of Spain, who upon the first News of the Revolt will enter the Kingdom? What Grandees have you at your head? Can they furnish you with Money sufficient to defray the Expence of a Civil War? I fear, continued he, that instead of revenging yourselves on the Spaniards, and freeing Portugal from Slavery, you will utterly ruin it, by giving the Spaniards a specious Pretence for doing what they have been so long endeavouring at."

D'Almada, who expected nothing less than such an Answer, and being very much troubled at his having entrusted the Secret to a Man, who in all probability would betray it, without replying drew his Sword, and coming up to the other, his Eyes sparkling with Rage; "Base Wretch, said he, by thy deceitful Words thou hast drawn a Secret from me, with which thou must take my Life, or by the Loss of thine atone for thy Treachery." The other, who had always thought it safest to avoid the nearest Danger, at the sight of d'Almada's naked Sword, promis'd to do any thing. He offer'd to sign the Conspiracy, and found weighty Reasons to destroy his former Objections; he swore that he would bury the Secret in his Heart, and endeavour'd all he could to persuade Almada, that it was neither want of Courage, or Hatred to the Spaniards, which had at first made him averse to what he had propos'd.

Notwithstanding his Oaths and Promises, d'Almada could not be thoroughly satisfy'd of this Man's Fidelity; he took care, without losing sight of him, to let the others know what had happen'd. A general Consternation immediately spread itself amongst them, and they fear'd, that the Prospect of the Danger which he must share, or the Hope of a Reward, would make this Wretch betray them. Upon this they resolv'd to defer the Execution of their Project, and forc'd Pinto to write to his Master, to put off his being proclaim'd in his Country, till he should hear further from them. But Pinto, who knew how dangerous it was to defer such a thing, tho but for a Day, at the same time sent him another Letter, in which he desir'd him to take no notice of his first, seeing that it was only the Effect of a panick Fear, which had seiz'd the Conspirators, and which would be over long before the Express arriv'd.

Nor was this crafty Man at all deceiv'd; for the next Day finding every thing still and quiet, and the Person who caus'd the Alarm making fresh Promises of Secrecy, they concluded that either he had arm'd his Mind with a generous Resolution of assisting them, or was afraid of impeaching so many Persons of Quality; and therefore they determin'd to proceed to Execution on the appointed Day. But another Adventure happen'd, which disquieted 'em as much as the former.

There were always in the Palace several of the Conspirators, walking up and down like Courtiers out of Place, whose Business it was to observe what was done within; but on the Evening of the last of November, they came in a Fright to their Companions, to tell them that Vasconcellos (by whose Death they were to begin the mighty Work) was just gone on board a Yacht, and had cross'd the Tagus. Who but Conspirators would have taken notice of so indifferent a thing? For a thousand Reasons, in which they were not concern'd, might have made him go on the other side of the Water; but they immediately concluded, that this artful Statesman, who had always his Spies abroad, had discover'd their Plot, and was about to bring into Lisbon those Soldiers which were quarter'd in the Villages on the other side of the River. Death, in its most ghastly Shape, appear'd to them, and they fancy'd that they already felt the cruellest Torments which could be inflicted. Some were resolving to fly into Africa, others into England; and all of them spent the first part of the Night in the greatest Disquiet imaginable, between the Hopes of Life and Fear of Death. But about the middle of the Night their Apprehensions vanish'd; for some who had been sauntring about the Port, to endeavour to discover the Secretary's Design, came and brought them the welcome News, that Vasconcellos had been only diverting himself upon the Water, and that he was return'd, with the Musick playing before him. A sudden Joy succeeded to their Grief, and about an hour after, being inform'd that every thing was quiet in the Palace, and every body bury'd in a profound Sleep, they return'd home to enjoy a little Rest; that they might be fitter for the Morning's Work.

It was very late, or rather very early, when they parted, and within some few hours of their appointed time, and yet an Accident happen'd within those few hours, which had almost betray'd them; so dangerous and uncertain are Enterprizes of this nature, whilst there are Men, whom Hopes of Gain, or Fear of Punishment, can work upon to betray their Fellows. Don George Mello, Brother to the Lord Ranger, lodg'd at a Relation's House, in the furthest Suburbs of Lisbon. This Gentleman thought, that now the time was come in which the Conspiracy would break out, and there was no necessity of hiding it any longer from this Relation, whom he had reason to believe was his Friend, as also one that might be serviceable to them, and who otherwise would for ever reproach him with having distrusted him as one not true to the Interest of his Country. Wherefore as soon as he came home, he went into his Chamber, and there reveal'd the Secret, desiring him to join in the Enterprize with so many Persons of Quality, and to behave himself as a Portuguese ought to do upon such an occasion. The other, surpriz'd at the Strangeness of this News, affected a seeming Joy for the approaching Liberty of his Country, thank'd Mello for the Confidence he repos'd in him, and assur'd him, that he accounted himself happy in having an opportunity of exposing his Life in so just and glorious a Cause.

Upon this Mello retir'd to his Chamber, to lay himself down to sleep, but scarce was he got thither, when he began seriously to reflect upon what he had been doing, and could not but think himself guilty of a very inconsiderate Action, in putting the Lives of so many Persons of Quality in the power of one, of whose Principles he was not overwell assur'd; then began he to fancy, that he had observ'd something of Fear in the Countenance of the Person, at the time when he was advising him to share the Danger of the Undertaking.

Full of these Reflections, he could not lay him down to rest, but was walking in great Disorder about his Chamber, when he thought he over-heard a kind of whispering Noise. Opening his Window softly, to see if any body was in the Street, he could perceive a Servant holding his Relation's Horse, and himself ready to mount. Enrag'd at this, he snatch'd his Sword, and hastening down stairs, seiz'd his Kinsman, and ask'd him whither he was going at this unseasonable time. The other would have forg'd an Excuse, and was hammering out a Lye, but Mello holding his Point to his Breast, threaten'd to kill him, if he did not immediately go in again; then order'd he the Keys of the House to be brought him, and having fasten'd all the Doors himself, he retir'd with his Kinsman, nor would he lose sight of him till it was time to go to the Rendevouz, to which he carried him.

But now the Morning dawn'd, that was to decide whether the Duke of Braganza should be the King and Deliverer of his Country, or be accounted a Rebel and Traitor.

Betimes in the Morning the Conspirators met at the appointed Places, where they were to be furnish'd with Arms. They all appear'd with so much Resolution and Courage, that they rather seem'd marching to a certain Victory, than to an uncertain Enterprize. But what is very much to be admir'd at, is, that amongst such a Number of Nobility, Gentry, Citizens, nay Priests, not one should falsify his Word, or break his Promise, tho their Interests in the Event were very different; but they all seem'd as impatient for the important Moment, as if each there had been the Contriver of the Scheme, or at the Head of the Enterprize; or rather, as if the Crown was to have been the Reward of each individual Man's Labour. Several Ladies also made themselves famous on that Day. But the noble Behaviour of Donna Philippa de Villenes ought never to be forgotten, who with her own hands arm'd both her Sons; and giving them their Swords, "Go, my Children, said she, put an end to a Tyrant's Power, revenge yourselves on your Enemies, free your Country, and be assur'd, that if Success does not crown your Undertaking, your Mother never will live to see the cruel Fate of so many brave and deserving Patriots."

Every one being arm'd, they made the best of their way towards the Palace, most of them in Litters, that they might conceal their Number and their Arms. There they divided into four Companies, and waited with impatience till the Palace-Clock struck Eight; that, and the firing of a Pistol, being the appointed Signal. Never did time seem so long; they fear'd that their being at that Place so early, and in such a Number, might make the Secretary jealous of their Design: but at last the long-expected Hour struck, and Pinto firing a Pistol, they rush'd forward to execute their bold Design.

Don Miguel d'Almeida, with those that accompany'd him, fell upon the German Guard, who were so far from expecting any Attack, that they were sitting very carelessly, few of them having their Arms in hand; so that they were cut to pieces, without scarce making any resistance.

The Lord Ranger, with his Brother Mello, and Don Estevan d'Acugna, fell on the Spaniards who kept Guard at a Place before the Palace, call'd the Fort. These Nobles, followed by most of the Citizens who were engag'd in the Conspiracy, fell upon the Castilians Sword in hand, and fought most resolutely; but no one behav'd himself more bravely than one of the City Priests: this Reverend Man, with a Crucifix in one hand, and a Sword in the other, appear'd at the head of his Party, and encourag'd the People, both by his Words and his Example, to cut their Enemies in pieces. The Spaniards, aw'd at the sight of so religious an Object, neither durst offend him, nor defend themselves, but fled before him. In short, after some small Resistance, the Officer of the Guard, willing to save his own Life, was forc'd to cry out with the rest, Long live the Duke of Braganza, King of Portugal!

Pinto having forced his way into the Palace, march'd at the head of those, who were to enter Vasconcellos's Apartment, so undauntedly, and with so little concern, that meeting with an Acquaintance, who, surpriz'd and frighted, ask'd him, whither he was going with such a Number of arm'd Men, and what they design'd to do; "Nothing, said he smiling, but change our Master, rid you of a Tyrant, and give Portugal their rightful King."

Entring the Secretary's Apartment, the first Person they met with was the[E] Civil Corregidor; who, thinking that the Noise he heard proceeded from some private Quarrel, would have interpos'd his Authority, but hearing a Cry of Long live the Duke of Braganza, &c. thought he was in honour oblig'd to cry out Long live the King of Spain and Portugal: but he lost his Life for his ill-tim'd Loyalty, one of the Conspirators immediately shooting him thro the Head.

Antonio Correa, first Clerk of the Secretary's Office, ran out to know the Occasion of this Tumult. This was the Man who was employ'd in oppressing the People, and who, after the Example of his Master, treated the Nobility of the Kingdom with Scorn and Contempt; therefore as soon as he appear'd, Don Antonio de Menezes plung'd his Sword into his Bosom. But the Blow not ending either his Life or Pride, and thinking that they had mistaken him, he turn'd towards Menezes, his Eyes sparkling with Rage and Indignation, and, in a passionate manner, cry'd out, Villain! darest thou strike me? But Menezes, without answering, redoubled his Blows; and the other, having receiv'd four or five Stabs, fell down: However, none of the Wounds prov'd mortal, and he escap'd at that time, to lose his Life afterwards in an ignominious manner, by the hands of the common Hangman.

This Business had stop'd the Conspirators, but as soon as Correa fell, they all rush'd forwards towards Vasconcellos's Apartment. There was with him, at that time, Don Garcez Palleia, a Captain of Foot; who seeing so many arm'd Men, immediately concluded, that their Design was to butcher the Secretary. And altho' he was under no manner of Obligation to that Minister, yet he thought himself in honour oblig'd to lend him what Assistance he could; wherefore standing at the Door, with his Sword in hand, he barr'd that Passage: but one of the Conspirators running him thro' the Arm, and several, who were unwilling to give him fair play, pressing forward, he was glad to make his Escape, by leaping out of a Window.

Upon this all the Company, that was with Pinto, enter'd the Chamber at once, and sought Vasconcellos; they overturn'd the Bed and Tables, broke open the Trunks, and every one was desirous of giving him the first Blow; yet, spite of their Endeavour, they could not find him, and they began to fear that he had made his Escape: but at last an old Maid-Servant being threaten'd with Death, unless she would tell where her Master was; and seeing the uplifted Swords, pointed to a Press which was made within the Wall, and in which they found the Secretary bury'd under a heap of Papers.

So great was his fear of Death, which he saw surrounding him on every side, that it prevented his Speech. Don Roderigo de Saa, Lord Chamberlain, was the Man who kill'd him, by shooting him through the Head with a Pistol; after which several of the Conspirators stabb'd him, then threw him out of the Window, crying, Liberty! Liberty! The Tyrant is dead! Long live Don John King of Portugal!

The Noise which all this had made, had drawn a vast number of People to the Palace-Court, who seeing the Secretary's Body thrown out, shouted in a most joyful manner; then rushing upon the Carcase, they mangled it, every one being eager to give him a Stab, thinking that, thro his sides, they wounded Tyranny.

Thus perish'd Miguel Vasconcellos, a Portuguese by Birth, but by Inclination a Spaniard, and an Enemy to his Country. He had an excellent Genius for Business, was crafty, politick, nor could any Man apply himself closer to it than he did. He was always inventing new ways of extorting Money from the People, was unmerciful, inexorable, and cruel, without the least regard to Friend or Relation; so fix'd, that after he had taken a Resolution, no one could byass his Temper; and so harden'd, that he never knew what the Stings of Conscience were. He had a Soul that was not capable of relishing any pleasure, but that of hoarding up Money; so that he left vast Sums behind him, part of which the People plunder'd, being willing to repay themselves, in some measure, that which had been extorted from them.

Pinto, without loss of time, march'd directly to join the other Conspirators, who were to make themselves Masters of the Palace, and to seize the Vice-Queen; he found that the Business was already done, and that Success had every where crown'd their Undertakings. Those who were appointed for that Expedition, came directly up to her Chamber, and the furious Mob, who follow'd them, threatning to set her Apartment on fire, if the Door was not immediately open'd; the Vice-Queen thinking by her Presence to pacify the Nobility, and awe the People, came out, attended by her Maids of Honour, and the Archbishop of Braga; and addressing herself to the chief Conspirators, "I own, Gentlemen, said she, that the Secretary justly deserv'd your Hatred and Indignation; his Cruelty and his haughty Insolence were intolerable, nor can his Death be charg'd upon you as a Crime, since you have only deliver'd yourselves from an oppressing Minister: But cannot his Blood satisfy you? Or what other Victim would you sacrifice to your Resentment? Think seriously, that altho' his illegal Conduct may excuse this Insurrection, yet should you any longer continue in Arms, Rebellion will be laid at your doors, and you will put it out of my power to make your Peace with the King."

Don Antonio de Menezes answer'd, and assur'd her, "That so many Persons of Quality had not taken up Arms to murder a Wretch, who ought to have lost his Life by the hands of the common Hangman; but that their Design was to restore the Crown to the Duke of Braganza, to whom it lawfully belong'd, and which the King of Spain had unjustly usurp'd; and that they were all ready to sacrifice their Lives in so glorious a Cause." She was about to reply, and to interpose the King's Authority; but d'Almeida, who fear'd that such a Speech might have a dangerous effect upon the People, or at least cool their Courages, interrupted her, saying, "That Portugal acknowledg'd no other King but the Duke of Braganza." Upon which the People shouted again, crying, Long live Don John, King of Portugal!

The Vice-Queen believing that her Presence might be of service in the City, and have a good effect upon the People every where, where the Conspirators were not present, was going in haste down stairs, but Don Carlos Norogna stopp'd her, desiring that she would retire to her own Apartment, assuring her that she should be treated with as much Respect as if she still had the supreme Command in the Kingdom; but told her that it would be dangerous for so great a Princess to expose herself to the Insults of a furious People, who were jealous of their Liberties, and enflam'd with Thirst of Revenge. The Queen easily understood the meaning of his words, and found that she was their Prisoner. Enrag'd at this, "And what can the People do to me?" cry'd she. "Nothing, Madam, reply'd Norogna in a passion, but fling your Highness out of the Window."

The Archbishop of Braga hearing this Answer, grew furious, and snatching a Sword from one of the Soldiers who stood next him, he flew towards Norogna, resolving to revenge the Vice-Queen, and had certainly met with Death, the just Reward of his Rashness, had not Don Miguel d'Almeida laid hold of him, and embracing him, begg'd him to consider what Danger he expos'd himself to, telling him that he was already hated enough by the Conspirators; nor had he found it an easy Task to obtain a Promise of them that they would spare his Life, why then would he urge them by an Action, which would not only be unprofitable to his Cause, but which also so highly misbecame his Character. The Prelate, convinc'd of the Truth of what his Friend said, was obliged to dissemble his Anger; however, he hoped that he should meet with some favourable Opportunity of revenging himself on Norogna, and doing something for the service of Spain, to whose Interest he was entirely devoted.

The rest of the Spaniards who were in the Palace, were made Prisoners by the other Conspirators: Amongst these were the Marquiss of Puebla, Major-Domo to the Vice-Queen, and elder Brother to the Marquiss de Leganez; Don Didaco Cardenas, Lieutenant-General of the Cavalry; Don Ferdinand de Castro, Comptroller of the Navy-Office; the Marquiss de Baynetto, an Italian, Gentleman-Usher to the Vice-Queen: with some Sea-Officers, who lay on shore, and whose Ships were in the Harbour. All this was done as regularly and as quietly, as if they had been taken up by an Order from the King of Spain, nobody stirring to their Assistance, and they not being able to defend themselves, most of them having been seiz'd in their Beds.

This done, Don Antonio de Salsaigni, follow'd by a Crowd of Friends, and an innumerable Multitude of People, went up into the Hall, where the Court of Justice was then sitting, and in an elegant Speech laid before them the present Happiness of Portugal, who had restor'd their own lawful King; he told them, that Tyranny was now no more, and that the Laws, which had been long slighted and neglected, should henceforward take their regular Course. This Speech was applauded by the whole Court, and they chang'd the Title of their Decrees, which they no longer made in the Name of the King of Spain, but in the Name of Don John, King of Portugal.

Whilst Salsaigni was thus persuading the high Court of Justice to adhere to the Duke of Braganza's Interest, Don Gaston Coutingno was taking out of Prison those who had been thrown into it by the Cruelty of the Spanish Minister. These unhappy Wretches, who had all along been persuaded, that they should end their Lives in their dismal Dungeons, unless taken out to be led to a cruel Death; seeing themselves now at liberty, and their Country in a fair way of being freed, and resolving to suffer any thing, rather than to return to their dark Prisons, form'd a Body no less formidable than that of the Conspirators, and who were as fully resolv'd to set the Duke of Braganza on the Throne.

But in the midst of this general Joy, Pinto, with the rest of the Leaders, were under great Apprehensions: The Spaniards were yet Masters of the Citadel, from whence they could easily burn and destroy the Town; besides which, the Port was open to the Spanish Fleet: therefore thinking that they had done nothing till they had taken that Place, they went up to the Vice-Queen, and desir'd her to sign a Warrant to the Governour, by virtue of which he should be oblig'd to give them possession of the Citadel.

She, far from granting what they ask'd, upbraided them as Rebels and Traitors, and with Indignation ask'd them, Whether they had a mind to make her an Accomplice? But d'Almada, who knew how dangerous it was to leave the Enemies any longer in that Fort, and being provok'd at the Vice-Queen's Denial, his Eyes sparkling with Rage, swore violently, that if she did not sign the Warrant, he would forthwith put every one of the Spaniards to death, whom they had taken in the Palace.

The poor Princess, frightened with these Threats, and unwilling to be the Occasion of the Death of so many Persons of Quality, was obliged to comply, thinking at the same time that the Governour knew his Duty too well, to obey an Order, which he might be assur'd was sign'd by Compulsion; but she was very much mistaken in her Conjecture, for Don Lewis del Campo, the Spanish Governour, was a Man of no Resolution at all, and seeing the Conspirators coming arm'd towards the Citadel, and all the People of the Town following them, who threaten'd to cut him and his Garison in pieces, unless he immediately surrender'd, was glad to see the Warrant, and have so fair an Excuse for his Cowardice; wherefore he immediately obey'd the Order, and gave up the Fort.

Proud of having dispatch'd their Business so happily, the Conspirators forthwith deputed Mendoza and the Lord Ranger to the Duke of Braganza, to acquaint him with their Success, and assure him, that nothing was now wanting but the Presence of their King, to compleat the Happiness of his Subjects.

Notwithstanding their Message, his Presence was not equally coveted by every body. The Grandees of the Kingdom could not see him rais'd to the Throne, without being inwardly jealous of his Fortune; and those of the Nobility, who were not let into the Secret, refus'd as yet to declare themselves; nay, some went so far as to assure the People, that the Duke would never approve of so rash an Action, and whose consequence might be so fatal to them all. Those who were in the Spanish Interest, were in a strange Consternation, and did not dare so much as stir abroad, lest they should be sacrific'd by the People, whose Rage was not yet appeas'd: In short, every body seem'd at an uncertainty, and waited impatiently for the Resolutions of the Duke of Braganza.

But his Friends, who were better acquainted with his Intentions, still pursued what they had so happily began, and assembled in the Palace, to give the necessary Orders. The Archbishop was unanimously chosen President of the Council, and Lord-Lieutenant of Portugal till the King's Arrival. He would at first have refus'd the Office, declaring that his opinion was, that they had more need of a good General at their head, than of a Man of his Character. However, being press'd by the Assembly to accept the Place, he consented to it, on condition that he might have the Archbishop of Braga for his Collegue; who, he said, was well acquainted with the Business, and might be very serviceable to him during the King's Absence.

This cunning Prelate chose his Brother Archbishop sooner than any other Man, well knowing that if he did accept it, he made himself an Accomplice in what he call'd Rebellion, and would be accounted criminal by the Spanish Minister: Besides which, he would have only had the Title of one of the Lord-Lieutenants, without any share of the Power. But if, on the other hand, he refus'd it, he should for ever put him out of the King's Favour, and make him odious to all the People, who henceforwards would look on him as an open and profess'd Enemy to his Country.

The Archbishop of Braga was very sensible of the Snare which was laid for him, but as he was wholly devoted to the Vice-Queen, and firm to the Spanish Interest, he refus'd having any thing to do with the Administration; so that the whole Burden of the publick Affairs fell upon the Archbishop of Lisbon: to ease him of part of which, they gave him for Assistants Don Miguel d'Almeida, Pedro Mendoza, and Don Antonio d'Almada.

One of the first Orders which the new Governour gave, was to seize upon the three Spanish Galloons which were then in the Harbour; upon which they arm'd a few Barks, and in them went most part of the Lisbon Youth, so desirous were they of shewing their Affection to the King: but the Galloons were taken without Resistance, the Officers, and the greatest part of the Ships Crew, having been seiz'd in the Morning ashore.

That very Evening Couriers were dispatch'd to every Province, to exhort the People to give thanks for the Recovery of their Liberties, and the Restoration of the Duke of Braganza; with Orders at the same time to all Governours of Towns, and other Magistrates, to have him proclaim'd King of Portugal, and to take all the Spaniards, in their respective Districts, into custody.

And now they began to prepare every thing at Lisbon for the Reception of the new King, and the Archbishop sent word to the late Vice-Queen, that she would very much oblige them, in leaving the Palace where she was, for he thought the King would want her Apartment, and that he had prepar'd every thing for her Reception at the Palace of Xabregas, which was at the farther end of the Town. This Princess receiv'd the Order with a scornful Look, and without answering a word, obey'd it. She went thro the Street, but without the usual Train of Courtiers and Crowd of People; there was only the Archbishop of Braga with her, who still gave her manifest Tokens of his Respect, even now when he expos'd his Life by so doing.

Mean while the Duke of Braganza continued in the cruel State of Uncertainty, sometimes flattering himself with the most pleasing Ideas which a lively Hope can form, and sometimes under the most dismal Apprehensions which frighten'd Fancy can suggest. The Distance between Villa-viciosa and Lisbon being thirty Leagues, he could not know what pass'd in his behalf so soon as he could have wish'd. All that he knew was, that on this Day his Life and Fortune were at stake. He had at first resolv'd to have himself proclaim'd at the same time in all the Towns which were under his Dependance; but his mind chang'd, and he determin'd to wait for the News of what had pass'd at Lisbon, before he undertook any thing. There still remain'd the Kingdom of Algarva, and the Citadel of Elvas, to which he could retire, in case his Party at Lisbon should fail; nay, he thought he could clear himself of having any hand in the Conspiracy, especially at a time when the Spaniards would be glad to believe him innocent.

He had planted several Couriers on the Road to Lisbon, and thereby expected to have an Account of what had pass'd betimes; but he had waited with impatience all the Day, and the greatest part of the Night, without hearing any thing, and the next Morning was already near at hand, when Mello and Mendoza, who had rode post from Lisbon, arriv'd. They threw themselves at the Duke's feet, by which Action, as well as by the Joy which appear'd in their Faces, the Success of their Undertaking might be better read, than it was possible for them to express.

They were about to give him an exact Account of every thing, but the Duke, without hearing a word of what they had to tell him, conducted them to the Dutchess's Apartment. The two Noblemen saluted her with the same Respect, as if she had actually been upon the Throne; they assur'd her of the Good-Wishes and Fidelity of her Subjects: and to shew her that they acknowledg'd her their Queen, they now gave her the Title of Majesty, whereas the Kings and Queens of Portugal had hitherto been always call'd their Highnesses.

We may easily judge of what pass'd in the Heart of this Royal Pair, if we consider the Fears and Agitations which they were before in, and to what Grandeur they were now rais'd. Nothing but Shouts of Joy were heard throughout the Palace, the happy News soon spread, and the same Morning the King was proclaim'd in all those Places, where it should have been done the Day before; Mello and Alphonso also had him proclaim'd at Elvas. The People came in Crouds to pay their Homage to the new King; which, tho in a confus'd manner, was no less agreeable to him, than what he afterwards receiv'd in all the formal Pomp of Ceremony.

The King immediately set out for Lisbon, with the same Equipage which had been prepar'd for his setting out for Madrid. He was accompany'd by the Marquiss de Ferreira, a Relation of his; the Count de Vimioso; and several other Persons of Quality, who were come to wait upon him to the Capital.

Decem. 6.

The Queen he left at Villa-viciosa, knowing that her Presence was necessary there, to keep the Provinces in awe. Every where, upon the Roads to Lisbon, they met with infinite Numbers of People, who crouded forwards to see the King; who had the satisfaction every where of hearing the People blessing him, and cursing the Spaniards. All the Nobility, with the whole Court, and the Magistrates of the City, met him at a great distance from Lisbon, and he enter'd the Town amidst the Acclamations of a joyful People.

That Evening there were Illuminations every where, and Fireworks in every publick Place; each Citizen in particular had a Bonfire before his door, which made a Spaniard say, "The Duke of Braganza was a happy Prince, who had got a whole Kingdom for a Bonfire." Nor was it long indeed before he was Master of the whole Kingdom, every Town follow'd the Example of their Capital, and seem'd as if they had a Plot ripe for Execution. Fresh Couriers every day arriv'd, who brought News of Towns, and sometimes of whole Provinces, which had driven the Castilians out, and proclaim'd the Duke of Braganza. Nor were many of the Spanish Governours more resolute than the Commander of the Citadel of Lisbon; and whether they wanted Soldiers, Ammunition, or Courage, is uncertain, but most of them surrender'd, without so much as giving the Portuguese the trouble of firing a Gun. In short, they fled the Kingdom like so many Criminals who had broke out of Prison; each Man dreaded Vasconcellos's Fate, and trembled at the sight of an incens'd Multitude: nor was there a Spaniard left in the whole Kingdom, but those who were taken into Custody, and all this in less than a Fortnight's time.

Don Ferdinand de la Cueva, Commander of the Citadel of St. Juan, at the Mouth of the Tagus, was the only Man who offer'd to make any resistance, and to preserve the Place for the King his Master. The Garison was wholly compos'd of Spaniards, the Officers brave, and resolv'd to hold it out to the last; and therefore, as soon as the Portuguese approach'd them, made a vigorous Defence. They were oblig'd to besiege it in form; to that end they brought Cannon from Lisbon, and open'd the Trenches before it, which they carry'd as far as the Counterscarp, spite of the Besieged's continual Fire, and their frequent Sallies. But the King, who knew that treating with the Commander would be not only the safest, but the shortest way, made him such advantageous Proposals, that the Governour could not resist the Temptation; but dazled with the Prospect of the vast Sum which was offer'd, besides a Commandry of the Order of Christ, and pretending that his Garison was not strong enough to hold out a Siege, he surrender'd upon Terms, spite of the chief Officers, who refus'd to sign the Capitulation.

This done, the King thought it best not to defer his Coronation, that he might thereby confirm his Royalty, and consecrate his Majesty. The Ceremony was perform'd on the Fifteenth of December with all the Magnificence imaginable; the Duke d'Aveiro, the Marquiss de Villareal, the Duke de Carmino, his Son, the Count de Monsano, and all the other Grandees of the Kingdom, being present. The Archbishop of Lisbon, at the head of all the Clergy of his Diocese, and accompany'd by several other Bishops, met him at the Door of the Cathedral; there he was solemnly acknowledg'd by the States of the Kingdom their Rightful and Lawful King: after which every one of them took the Oath of Allegiance.

Some few Days after the Coronation, the Queen arriv'd at Lisbon with a sumptuous Equipage and numerous Retinue. All the Court went out of Town to meet her, and she already had with her all the Officers of her Houshold. The King himself met her at some distance from the Town. This Prince omitted nothing which might make her Entry appear magnificent, and convince the People that he believ'd she had very much contributed to the placing the Crown upon his Head. Every one observ'd, that notwithstanding her Fortune was alter'd, yet was not the Queen in the least chang'd, but behav'd herself as majestically, as if she had been born to, and was educated for the Possession of a Throne.

---

Such was the Success of this great Enterprize, as happily finish'd, as it was prudently begun; which may be reckon'd a sort of Miracle, considering the vast Number of Persons, and the different Quality and Inclinations of those who were let into the Secret: Nor can it be accounted for, but from the natural Hatred which the Portuguese had to a Spanish Government; a Hatred! which took its first Rise from the frequent Wars which these neighbouring Nations waged against one another, ever since they had been Monarchies; as well as from their being both concern'd in the Discovery of the Indies, and the frequent Debates which they had concerning their Commerce; these at last grew into an inveterate Hatred, which was now encreas'd by the Tyranny of Spain.

The News of the Revolution soon reach'd the Court of Spain. D'Olivarez was almost driven to Despair at the hearing it; he saw his own Project miscarry, and Ruin threatning his Country, which might have been easily prevented, but could not now be remedy'd. Nor had Spain any need of acquiring new Enemies, the French and Dutch Troops already employ'd their utmost Forces, with much ado they resisted their combin'd Strength; and the Revolt of Catalonia, he fear'd, might invite other Provinces to do the like.

There was no one now in the Court of Madrid ignorant of the News, but the King himself; every one thought that he ought to be inform'd of it, yet no one dar'd undertake the ungrateful Task, for fear of incurring the Minister's Displeasure, whose implacable Temper they knew too well, to hope that he would ever forgive an Offence of this nature. At last the Duke, seeing that the Story was too well known to be any longer conceal'd from the King, and fearing that some of his Enemies, either to ingratiate or revenge themselves, should tell it in such a manner, that the whole Fault would seem to fall upon him, he resolv'd to be himself the Messenger, and coming up to the King, with a serene Look, and a Face on which a dissembled Joy sat confess'd, "I wish your Majesty Joy," said he, "of a noble Dutchy, and a fine Estate, which are lately fallen to you." "How Olivarez!" answer'd the King; "what do you mean?" "Mean!" reply'd the Minister; "why the Duke of Braganza is run mad, the Mob have proclaimed him King of Portugal, and he has accepted the Title; so that now all he has is confiscated, and you have a good Pretence to rid yourself of the whole Family: Henceforwards you may reign King of Portugal, nor fear that any one will dispute your Title to that Kingdom."

As weak a Prince as Philip was, he easily comprehended the meaning of these words; but as he could no longer see but thro his Minister's Eyes, he only told him, That he must take care betimes to put an end to a Rebellion, whose Consequence might otherwise prove dangerous.

Jan. 28.
1644.

Mean while the King of Portugal took all the necessary Measures to confirm his new Authority. As soon as he came to Lisbon, he nam'd Governours for every Town of Portugal, as much distinguish'd for their Fidelity to him, as for their Experience and approv'd Valour; who immediately, with what Soldiers they could get together, went to take possession of their Command, and to put the Place in a posture of Defence. At the same time recruiting Commissions were given out; and the Solemnity of his Coronation being over, he call'd together the States of the Kingdom: in which, to prevent all the Doubts and Scruples which might rise in the Minds of the People, his Pretensions to the Crown were examin'd, and by a solemn Decree of the States he was acknowledg'd Rightful and Lawful King, as being descended from Prince Edward, Son to King Emanuel; whereas the King of Spain was only descended from a Daughter of the same King Emanuel, who also by the Fundamental Laws of Portugal was excluded the Succession, having espous'd a foreign Prince.

In this Assembly the King declar'd, that he would content himself with his own Estate, and that the usual Royal Revenue should be apply'd to the defraying of the extraordinary Expences, and paying the Debts of the Kingdom. And the better to ingratiate himself with the People, he took off all the Taxes which the oppressing Spaniards had laid upon them.

To all the considerable Offices and Employments he promoted those of the Conspirators, whose Birth and Capacity might give them just Pretensions to it, and who had shewn the greatest Desire of raising him to the Throne. In this Promotion no notice was taken of Pinto; the King did not think his Royalty sufficiently confirm'd, to venture at raising one of his Servants, and whose Extraction was but mean. However, the Prince was not in the least unmindful of his Service, and without having the Title of a Minister of State, he had the Authority of one; so great was his Influence over his Master, and such entire Confidence did he repose in him.

Having given all the necessary Orders within the Kingdom, he resolv'd to assure himself of some foreign Assistance in case of necessity, as well by making strict Alliances with all the Enemies of Spain, as by raising them new ones. To this end he endeavour'd to persuade the Duke of Medina Sidonia, Governour of Andalusia, and his Brother-in-law, to follow his Example, shake off the Spanish Yoke, and make himself an independent Prince. The Marquiss Daiamonti, a Spanish Nobleman, and related to the Queen of Portugal, was to negotiate this Business, the Success of which will be seen in the Sequel of this History.

The King of Portugal made a League offensive and defensive with the Dutch; France promis'd him its Protection, and he sent Ambassadors to all the Courts of Europe, that his Title might be acknowledg'd by their Princes. But the King of Spain was so destitute of Men, Catalonia employing all his Forces, that he did very little all that Campaign for the Recovery of Portugal, and even what he did undertake met with no Success.

Some little time after this, News was brought that Goa, and all those other Places which belong'd to Portugal, whether in the Indies, Africa, or in Peru, had follow'd the Example of their European Masters, and revolted from the Spaniards. Thus was the King flatter'd with the Prospect of a happy Reign, and rejoic'd to see Peace and Tranquillity preserv'd within his Kingdom, whilst his Arms met with Success abroad; little suspecting the Danger which threaten'd his Life and Crown, both which he had almost lost by a cursed Conspiracy, which was form'd even in the midst of that Prince's Court.

The Archbishop of Braga, as has before been observ'd, was wholly devoted to the King of Spain, during whose Reign in Portugal he had had a great share in the Ministry. He now plainly saw, that he must never hope for any Preferment, unless the Spanish Government could be again introduc'd into that Kingdom; besides, he fear'd that the new King, who out of a tender regard to his Character, had not had him put into Prison with the other Spaniards, might alter his Mind, and seeing his Authority once confirm'd, and dreading no longer the Danger of incensing the People, or provoking the Inquisition, might make him share the Fate of those, whose Courage or Politicks 'twas thought might prove prejudicial to the new King's Government, and who had all been depriv'd of their Liberty. But the chief Motive which induc'd him to undertake something for their Cause, was his Affection to the late Vice-Queen: with impatience he beheld that Princess under Confinement, especially in a Place where he thought it was her Right to rule; and his Rage was violently increas'd by the Orders which were given her Guards to admit neither the Prelate, nor any other Person of Quality, the King having been inform'd that she endeavour'd to infuse Sentiments of Rebellion into all those Portuguese who went to visit her; and therefore thought fit to deprive her of that Liberty, which she so palpably abus'd. As just and as necessary as this Proceeding was, the Archbishop call'd it cruel and tyrannick; and as he had some Notions of Gratitude, believ'd himself under an Obligation of doing something for the Liberty of a Princess, who had done so much for him. The remembrance of her past Kindness enflam'd his Soul with Anger, and made him resolve to embrace any Opportunity whatsoever of revenging himself on her Enemies, and delivering her out of their hands. But as he plainly saw it would be impossible either to surprize or corrupt her Guards, he could not think of any surer way than going directly to the Fountain-head, and by the Death of the King to restore her Liberty and Authority both at once.

Being fully confirm'd in this Resolution, he began to think of the speediest Means of putting it in execution, well knowing that he should not long enjoy the Place of President of the Palace, which was not as yet taken from him. He plainly saw that it was in vain to follow the King's Measures, by endeavouring to win the People, and make them join with him; their Hatred to the Spaniards being too deeply rooted in their Hearts. The Nobility, he was assur'd, wou'd not assist him, since by their means the Crown was placed upon the Duke of Braganza's Head: he could therefore only depend upon the Grandees, who with envy beheld one that had been their Equal, upon the Throne. The first thing he did, was to assure himself of Olivarez's Protection and Assistance: after which, he began to work upon the Marquiss of Villareal; to whom he represented, that the new King was timorous and diffident, for which reason he sought all opportunities of ruining his Family, lest he should leave a Subject who was capable of disputing the Crown with his Successor: That he and the Duke d'Aveiro, who were both of the Royal Blood, were not thought worthy of any Office or Employment; whilst all Places of Trust were fill'd by a company of factious and seditious People: That with indignation the People saw how little he was valued, and were very much troubled to think that a Person of his Quality and Capacity must spend his time at a Country-Seat, and in an inglorious Ease: That one of his Birth and Estate was too great to be the Subject of so petty a Prince as the King of Portugal: That he had lost a Master in the King of Spain, who only was capable of bestowing such Employments on him as he deserv'd, by reason of the many Kingdoms of which he was Sovereign, and over which he must establish Governours.

Seeing that this Discourse made an impression on the Mind of the Marquiss, he went so far as to assure him, that he had Orders from the King of Spain to promise him the Viceroyalty of Portugal, as a Reward of his Loyalty, in case he would assist him in his Design of recovering that Kingdom.

Notwithstanding what the Archbishop promis'd, the thing was very far from his Heart; his chief Aim being to restore the Dutchess of Mantua to her Liberty and former Authority: for the compassing of which, he thought it very lawful to promise what he never intended to perform; and he knew that ambitious Motives were the likeliest to engage the Marquiss de Villareal, upon whom his fair Speeches had at last such an effect, that he yielded to his Persuasions, and promis'd that he, with his Son the Duke of Camino, would be at the head of the Enterprize.

This Prelate being thus assur'd of these two Princes, made it his next business to engage the Grand Inquisitor, who was his intimate Friend, and than whom no one could be more necessary in carrying on their great Design; seeing that by his means he should also prevail upon all the Officers belonging to the Inquisition, a People more to be dreaded by honest Men than Rogues, and who bear a great sway amongst the Portuguese. He endeavour'd at first to alarm his Conscience, by reminding him of the Oath of Allegiance which he had taken to the King of Spain, and which he ought not to break in favour of an usurping Tyrant; but finding the Inquisitor a true Churchman, over whom Interest had a greater sway than Conscience, he told him that he must join in the Plot, if he hoped to keep his Place much longer, for that the new King made it his business to give all the Employments to Persons whose Fidelity he could depend upon.

After this, he spent several Months in encreasing the Number of Conspirators, the chief of which were the Commissary de la Crusada; the Count d'Armamar, Nephew to the Archbishop; the Count de Ballerais; Don Augustin Emanuel; Antonio Correa, that Clerk of Vasconcellos, to whom Menezes had given divers Stabs on the first Day of the Revolution; Laurento Pidez Carvable, Keeper of the Royal Treasury; with several others, who were the Creatures of the Spanish Ministers, to whom they ow'd their Fortunes and their Places, and which they could not hope to keep long, unless by once more introducing the Spanish Government.

There were also a vast number of Jews who were concern'd in the Plot, and who had long liv'd at Lisbon in an outward Profession of the Christian Faith. These had lately offer'd the King a vast Sum of Money, if he would free them from the Persecution of the Inquisitors, and let them have their Synagogues at Lisbon; but the Prince rejected their Offer, and deny'd their Petition. This had thrown the chief of them into a great Consternation, for appearing at the head of the Petitioners, they had made themselves known, and thereby expos'd themselves to all the Torments which the Inquisition could invent.

With these the Archbishop took care to get acquainted, and taking advantage of the Confusion they were in, promis'd them his Protection, which was not to be despis'd, since he had such an Influence over the Grand Inquisitor; but insinuated at the same time, that they were in danger of being banish'd Portugal by the King, who affected very much to be thought a true and pious Catholick: and at the same time promis'd in the Name of the King of Spain, that if they would be instrumental to his Restoration, they should have Liberty of Conscience, and Leave openly to profess their Religion.

So violent was the Passion of the Archbishop, that he was not asham'd to make use of the profess'd Enemies of Jesus Christ, to drive a Christian Prince from a Throne, which rightfully belong'd to him; and this was perhaps the first time that ever the Inquisition and Synagogue went hand in hand together.

Several Schemes were propos'd, but at last this, which was drawn by the Archbishop, and approv'd of by the first Minister of Spain, was agreed upon; That the Jews should set fire to the four Corners of the Palace on the 5th of August, and at the same time to several Houses both in the City and Suburbs, that the People might every where be employ'd in extinguishing the Fire; that the Conspirators should all fly to the Palace under pretence of assisting, and that amidst the Horrour and Confusion which this vast Conflagration would cause, some of them should assassinate the King; that the Duke de Camino should seize the Queen and her Children, who might be as serviceable to them in regaining the Citadel, as the Dutchess of Mantua had been to their Enemies; that at the same time there should be Fireworks ready to be play'd off, to set the Portuguese Fleet on fire; that the Archbishop, with the Grand Inquisitor and all his Officers, should march thro the Town, to keep the People in awe, and prevent their coming to the Assistance of the King, so much do they dread the Power of the Inquisition; and that the Marquiss de Villareal should take the Administration upon him, till they had receiv'd Orders from the Court of Spain.

But as they had not the least reason to hope that the People would second them, they thought it necessary to make sure of some Troops, and to that end wrote to Olivarez to send a Fleet towards the Coasts of Portugal, which should be ready to enter the Port of Lisbon at the time when the Conspiracy should break out; and that there should be some Forces on foot on the Frontiers of the Kingdom, which should be in a readiness to act against any Place, which would not willingly surrender to the King of Spain.

But the most difficult part of their Labour was to keep an exact Correspondence with the Spanish Minister: for since the King had been inform'd that the Dutchess of Mantua had sent Letters to Madrid, there was such a strict Guard kept upon the Frontiers of the Kingdom, that no one could go into Castile without the King's own Passport; nor did they dare attempt to corrupt the Guards, lest they should reveal what had been offer'd them.

But at last, seeing themselves under an absolute Necessity of acquainting the Spanish Minister with their Design, without which all their Measures would infallibly be broken; they cast their Eyes upon a rich Merchant of Lisbon, who was Treasurer of the Custom-House, and who, by reason of his great Trade, had the King's immediate leave to send Letters into Castile at any time. This Man's Name was Baeze; he outwardly profess'd the Christian Religion, but was suppos'd to be a conceal'd Observer of the Jewish Law. To him they offer'd vast Sums of Money for his Assistance; which, together with the Persuasions of the Jews who were engag'd in the Conspiracy, prevail'd upon him so far, that he promis'd to take care that their Letters should be deliver'd to the Duke d'Olivarez.

To this end he enclos'd the Pacquet directed to the Marquiss Daiamonti, Governour of the first Town on the Frontiers of Spain, believing his Letters safe, when once out of the Dominions of Portugal.

The Marquiss, who was nearly related to the Queen, and was at that time negotiating a Business for the King of Portugal, was very much surpriz'd to see Letters seal'd with the Great Seal of the Inquisition, and directed to the first Minister of Spain; and beginning to fear that his own Business was discover'd, and notice of it hereby given to Olivarez, he open'd them, and found that they contain'd the Scheme of a Conspiracy against the Royal Family, and which was speedily to be put in execution.

Startled at the Contents, he dispatch'd a Courier to the Court of Portugal with the intercepted Letters. It is impossible to express the Surprize of the King, when he saw that three Princes, who were so nearly related to him, with the Archbishop, and several Grandees of the Kingdom, were contriving how to take away his Life, and give his Crown to a Stranger.

He immediately communicated their intended Treason to his Privy-Council, who after a small Deliberation came to a Resolution, which some few days afterwards was executed. The fifth of October was the Day appointed by the Conspirators, and the Time Eleven at Night. That very Morning, about Ten of the Clock, all the Soldiers who were quarter'd in the neighbouring Villages, march'd into Lisbon, it having been given out that they were then to be review'd in the Court of the Palace. The King at the same time gave Notes with his own hand to several Officers and others of his Court, which were seal'd up, with positive Orders not to open them till Twelve, and then punctually to execute the Contents.

A little before Noon the Archbishop and the Marquiss de Villareal were sent for to the Palace about some Business, and coming into the King's Apartment, were arrested without the least noise, or any body's knowing it; and at the same time one of the Captains of the Guard made the Duke de Camino a Prisoner. Those who had receiv'd the seal'd Notes having open'd them, found Orders to arrest such a Man, whom they should convey to such a Prison, and not lose sight of him till farther Orders. In short, Matters were manag'd so prudently, that in less than an hour's time the Forty-seven Conspirators were seiz'd, without so much as giving any one of them time enough to escape, or even the least suspicion that their Plot was discover'd.

The News of their intended Barbarity reaching the ears of the People, they came flocking towards the Palace, and in a tumultuous manner demanded the Prisoners, that they might tear them piece-meal.

Tho the King was well pleas'd with the Affection and Loyalty of his Subjects, yet was he a little troubled to see how easily they could be gather'd together, and what mischief they were at such a time able to do. Wherefore having thank'd them for the care which they took of him, and having promis'd that the Traitors should be punish'd according to Law, he order'd the Magistrates to disperse them.

But as he knew that the most violent Passions of an incens'd People will soon grow cool, and perhaps dwindle into Compassion, when they no longer should consider the Criminals as the worst of Villains, who would have destroy'd their King and Country, but as unhappy Wretches, who must shortly suffer an ignominious Death; he took care to publish, that the Conspirators Intent was to assassinate him and all the Royal Family, to set the whole Town on fire, and those who escaped the raging Flames, should have fallen by the Sword of the Rebels: That Spain being resolv'd to have nothing more to fear from the Portuguese, would have sent all their Citizens into America, to toil like Slaves, and be bury'd alive in those Mines, where so many had already perish'd, and to people the City of Lisbon with a Colony of Castilians.

After this the King order'd the Traitors to be brought to their Tryal, and to this end he appointed Judges, which he took out of the supreme Court of Judicature, and to whom he added two Grandees of the Kingdom, upon account of the Archbishop of Braga, the Marquiss de Villareal, and the Duke de Camino.

The King put their Letters, which they had sent to Olivarez, into the hands of those who were appointed to prosecute them; but with Orders not to make use of them, if they could by any other means prove them guilty of High Treason, lest the Court of Spain should thereby discover the Correspondence which he held with the Marquiss Daiamonti: but there was no necessity of producing them to discover the Truth; for Baeze, who was the first that was brought to the Bar, contradicted himself in almost every Question which was ask'd him, and being put to the Torture, his Courage fail'd him, he confess'd his Crime, and discover'd the whole Plan of the Conspiracy. He own'd that their Design was to kill the King, that the Office of the Inquisition was now full of Arms, and that they waited only for Olivarez's Answer to execute their Design.

Most of the other Conspirators were put to the Torture, and their Deposition entirely agreed with Baeze's. The Archbishop, the Grand Inquisitor, the Marquiss de Villareal, and the Duke de Camino, being unwilling to suffer the Torments of the Question, confess'd their Crime. These two last were condemn'd to be beheaded, the rest of the Lay-Traitors to be hang'd, drawn and quarter'd, and the Sentence of the Ecclesiasticks was refer'd to the King himself. Upon this the King immediately assembled his Council, and told them, that the consequence of putting so many Persons of Quality to death, altho they were criminal, might be fatal: That the chief Conspirators were of the first Families of the Kingdom, whose Relations would be for ever his conceal'd Enemies, and that the Desire of revenging their Death would be the unhappy Source of new Plots: That the Consequence of the Death of Count d'Egmont in Flanders, and of the Guises in France, had prov'd fatal: That if he pardon'd some of them, and chang'd the Sentence of the others into a Punishment less severe than Death, he should for ever win theirs, their Friends, and their Kindreds Hearts, and bind them to his Service by the Ties of Gratitude: but yet, That notwithstanding he himself was inclin'd to Mercy, he had assembled his Council to know their Opinions, and to follow that which should seem the most reasonable, and the most just.

The Marquiss de Ferreira was the first who spoke, and was for having them executed without delay: he represented, That in such cases as these Justice only ought to be consulted, and that Mercy was most dangerous: That Pardon would seem not so much the Effect of the Goodness, as Weakness of the Prince, or the Fear of their threatning powerful Friends: That if these should go unpunish'd, it would bring the Government into Contempt, and encourage their Relations to deliver them out of Prison, or perhaps to carry Matters farther: That now, at his Accession to the Crown, he ought, by an Example of Severity, to deter others from ever attempting the like. He urg'd farther, That they were Traitors not only to the King, but also to the State, whose present Constitution they had endeavour'd to subvert: That he ought rather to hearken to the Justice which he ow'd his People, and punish these Criminals, than to his own Inclination of forgiving them, especially at a time when his Preservation and the publick Safety were inseparable.

The whole Council being of the same opinion, the King yielded, and the next day Sentence was executed. The Archbishop of of Lisbon being willing to save one of his Friends, came to the Queen, and sollicited her for a Pardon, with all the Assurance of a Man, who thought that nothing could be deny'd him, and that his former Services might claim a much greater Favour. But the Queen, who was convinc'd of the Justice and absolute Necessity of their suffering the Law, and how much a Distinction of this nature would incense the Friends and Relations of the rest, answer'd the Archbishop in few words, but with such a Tone, as made him see it would be in vain to urge his Request any farther; "My Lord, the only Favour I can now grant you, is to forget that you ever ask'd me this."

The King, unwilling to disoblige the Clergy, and especially the Court of Rome, who had not as yet acknowledg'd him King, or receiv'd his Ambassadors, would not suffer the Archbishop of Braga, or the Grand Inquisitor, to be executed, but condemn'd them to a perpetual Imprisonment; where the Archbishop shortly after died of a violent Fever, a Disease often fatal to State-Prisoners, who for some politick Reason must not be led to open Execution.

Nothing could be equal to the Surprize of Olivarez, when this News was brought him; he could not imagine by what means the King of Portugal had discover'd their Design, nor would it ever have been known, had not an Accident happen'd, which made him see that it was the Marquiss Daiamonti, who had unravel'd the dark Design, and acquainted the King with it.

This Prince still kept a very good Correspondence with the Enemies of Spain, his Ports were open to the Fleets of France and Holland; he had a Resident at Barcelona, and encourag'd the revolting Catalonians: in short, he did all he could to weaken Spain, not only by increasing the Rage of its Foes, but also by endeavouring to raise up new ones. To this end, he had already inclin'd the Duke de Medina Sidonia, his Brother-in-law, to rebel; whom the Marquiss Daiamonti, a Castilian, and their mutual Confidant, at length entirely seduced. This Nobleman was, as has been before observ'd, nearly related to the Queen of Portugal, and the Duke of Medina: He was Governour of a Place at the Mouth of the Guadiano, and just on the Frontiers of Portugal, which made it easy for him to keep a good Correspondence with that Court; nor did he question, but that by being serviceable to two such powerful Families, he should easily make his own Fortune. He was valiant, enterprizing, hated the first Minister, and at the same time did not in the least value his Life; a Quality so very necessary to those who embark themselves in any dangerous Design.

He wrote privately to the Duke, to congratulate him upon the Discovery of the Archbishop's Plot, and the Preservation of the Life of the Queen his Sister, and all the Royal Family; he at the same time observ'd how grateful it must be to him to see the Crown of Portugal one day adorn the Head of his Nephews, which made that Kingdom a sure Refuge for him in time of Distress: which perhaps might be too near at hand, since he could never reckon himself safe while Olivarez was at the head of Affairs, whose only aim was to ruin all the Grandees; nor was it to be suppos'd that the crafty Statesman would long leave him Governour of so large a Province, and in the Neighbourhood of Portugal: That he would advise him seriously to reflect on all these things, and let him know his Resolutions; to which end he should send him a Person in whom he could confide, and to whom they both might safely trust their Secret.

The Duke was naturally proud and ambitious, and with Envy had beheld his Brother-in-law raising himself to the Throne; nor would he, on his side, willingly neglect any Opportunity of doing the like. Believing by what the Marquiss said, that he had some very advantageous Proposal of this kind to make him, he sent Lewis de Castile, his Confidant, to Daiamonti, who seeing his Credentials, at once open'd his Mind, and bid him remember with what ease the Duke of Braganza had made himself Master of the Crown of Portugal; nor could there ever be a more favourable time for the Duke of Medina Sidonia to do the like, and make himself independent of the Crown of Spain.

After this he represented the Weakness of that Kingdom, which was exhausted by the Wars which the French and Dutch had continually waged against them: That Catalonia now employ'd all its Forces, nor would the King know how to help himself, should Andalusia rise in Arms against him, and the War be thus carry'd into the very Heart of the Kingdom: That the People would certainly side with him, being always fond of a new Government; besides which, they had reason enough to complain of the old one, which had so oppress'd them with Taxes, and extorted such vast Sums from them: That the Duke of Medina was as well beloved by the Andalusians, as the Duke of Braganza was at the time of the Revolution by the Portuguese: That the only thing which now remain'd to be done, was to gain all those, who, under him, were Governours of Towns and Forts, without entrusting them with the Secret, which might be done; and to fill all Places of Trust with his surest Friends: That as soon as the Galloons, which were expected from the Indies, arriv'd, he should seize them, and the Riches which were on board would defray the Expences of this Enterprize: That the King of Portugal, with his Allies, should have a Fleet ready to enter Cadiz, and there land a sufficient Number of Forces, to subdue those who would unseasonably shew their Loyalty to Spain.

Lewis de Castile being return'd to his Master, gave him a faithful Account of all that had pass'd between him and the Marquiss. The Duke, dazled with the Prospect of a Crown, resolv'd to hazard every thing, rather than fail of obtaining one. He was chief Commander there both by Sea and Land, as Captain-General of the Ocean, and Governour of the Province, in which he also had a very large Estate, and several Towns under his own immediate Jurisdiction. This seem'd very much to facilitate his Design, and made him believe, that it was in his power to put a Crown upon his Head whenever he pleas'd.

Upon this he sent Lewis de Castile back to the Marquiss, that they might together agree upon the properest Measures of accomplishing their Project, and especially of engaging the Crown of Portugal to lend them all the Assistance it possibly could. Mean while, he himself was disposing every thing for the intended Revolution; he put his own Creatures in all those Places where their Assistance would be most serviceable to him; he frequently would pity the Soldiers, who were not paid as they ought to be, and the People, who were over-burden'd with excessive Taxes.

The Marquiss Daiamonti was well pleas'd to see the Duke in that Disposition he had long wish'd to see him in; he wanted to acquaint the King of Portugal with it, but was unwilling to trust to Letters, and fear'd he could not send a Messenger so privately, but that the Court of Spain might discover it, and have just cause to mistrust his Fidelity: However, at last he cast his eyes upon a crafty and intriguing Monk, who for love of Money, or hope of Preferment, would undertake any thing; he was call'd Father Nicholas de Valasco, of the Order of St. Francis. No one could be fitter for his purpose, since in the Countries where the Inquisition is, this Habit is so much respected, that no one would dare to pry into his Actions, and observe his Steps.

As soon as he had receiv'd his Instructions, he came to Castro-Marino, the first Town on the Frontiers of Portugal, pretending to ransom some Castilian Prisoners which were detain'd in Portugal. The King, who had notice given him of it, by a Letter from the Marquiss Daiamonti, was desir'd to seize him, and bring him to Court: This was accordingly done; he was arrested as a Spy, loaded with Chains, and brought to Lisbon as a State-Criminal, whom the Ministry themselves would examine; where he was immediately cast into Prison, and seemingly watch'd very strictly: some time after he was set at liberty, since upon Examination it appear'd, that his only Intent was to ransom some Castilian Prisoners; and partly, to make him amends for his former ill Usage, he was permitted to come to Court, to treat with the proper Officer about it.

The King saw him himself several times, and promis'd him, that as a Reward of his Industry and faithful Service, he would give him a Bishoprick. The Monk, flatter'd with the hopes of the Mitre, would never stir from the Palace; he made his court to the Queen, and was always waiting upon the Ministers: He wanted to be let into all the State-Intrigues, and did all he could to shew what Credit he had at Court; and thus, without directly revealing his Secret, he betray'd it by his Pride and Inconsiderateness. It plainly appear'd, that the Severity of his Prison was only a blind, and the Examination of the Ministry a pretence to introduce him into Court. Many and various were the Conjectures which were made about his real Business there; but at last a Castilian, who was Prisoner at Lisbon, discover'd the whole Intrigue.

This Castilian, nam'd Sancho, was a Creature of the Duke of Medina Sidonia's, and, before the late Revolution, Pay-Master of the Spanish Army in Portugal. He, with the rest of his Countrymen who were taken up at that time, groan'd in Confinement, nor had they any prospect of Liberty; but hearing of this Monk, and being inform'd of his Country, his extravagant Conduct, his Credit at Court, and several other Circumstances, which made it plain that he was there employ'd in some secret Business; he thought he had now an opportunity of obtaining his Liberty, and with this hope he wrote the Monk a long Letter, full of Expressions fit to sooth his Vanity; in it he complain'd, that the King of Portugal detain'd him in Prison, (with the other Castilians) who was a Servant and Creature of the Duke his Brother-in-law: and to confirm it, he sent him several Letters, wrote to him by that Prince himself some little time before the Revolution, in which he treated him as one in whom he repos'd an entire Confidence.

The Franciscan answer'd Sancho's Letter, and assur'd him, that nothing could recommend him more to him, than his belonging to the Duke of Medina; that he would use all his endeavour to procure him his Liberty, but in the mean time he must take care not so much as to open his mouth about it. The Spaniard waited some days for the Effect of his Promise, and at last sent him a second Epistle, in which he represented, that seven Months were expir'd since he was cast into Prison; that the Spanish Minister seem'd to have quite forgotten him, since he neither talk'd of ransoming or exchanging him; and that therefore he had no hopes of Liberty left, but what were built upon the Charity and Interest of the Reverend Father.

The Monk, who thought he should very much oblige the Duke of Medina, by procuring Sancho his Freedom, begg'd it of the King, and obtain'd it. He went to the Prison himself, to fetch him out of it, and offer'd to have him included in a Passport, which was to be given to some of the Dutchess of Mantua's Servants, who were then returning to Madrid. But the crafty Castilian answer'd him, that Madrid was a Place to which he could never more return; that he must not pretend to appear at Court, unless he desir'd to be thrown into Prison again, seeing that Olivarez was so severe and unjust, that he would expect his Accounts to be made up, altho in the late Revolution he had been stript not only of his Money, but had had his Books also taken from him: To this he added, that he desir'd nothing more than to be near the Duke of Medina, his Patron, who was both able and willing, he did not question, to advance him.

The Franciscan wanting somebody whom he could trust his Secret to, and by whom he might give the Marquiss Daiamonti a strict Account of his Negotiation, cast his eyes upon the Castilian, who seem'd very much attach'd to the Interest of the Duke of Medina. To this end he detain'd the Spaniard some time, pretending that he could not as yet procure him a Passport, tho his Intent was to observe him, and see whether or not he was a Person fit to be entrusted. Their being frequently together begat an intimate Acquaintance, which they both mutually desir'd; the Monk, that he might engage the Spaniard to serve him; and the Spaniard, that he might make himself Master of the Monk's Secret.

This holy Man, like the rest of his Brethren, puff'd up with Vanity, could not forbear one day telling his Friend, that he would not long see him in that Garb in which he was, that he had a Bishoprick promis'd him, and that he did not despair of obtaining the Roman Purple. Sancho, to make him prattle the faster, pretended that he did not believe a word of what he said. The Fryar laugh'd at his Incredulity: "And I suppose, continued he, you would not believe me neither, if I should tell you, that the Duke of Medina will shortly be a King." The other, to get the Secret quite out of him, urg'd the Impossibility of it; upon which the Monk told him the whole Story: That Andalusia must in a little time acknowledge the Duke for their Sovereign: That the Marquiss Daiamonti, who had also discover'd the Spanish Plot to the King of Portugal, was the chief Negotiator and Instrument of this intended Revolution: That he should shortly see strange Alterations in Spain, and that he had now an opportunity of making his Fortune only by being secret, and taking care to deliver some Letters from him to the Duke and Marquiss.

Sancho, well pleas'd at the Discovery of this Secret, which he had long labour'd to get out of him, renew'd his Protestations of Fidelity and Secrecy, and his Offers of Service; and having taken Velasco's Letters, told him, that he should be proud of the Opportunity of serving the Prince, and hoped that he should be thought worthy of the Honour of bringing him an Answer. Upon this the Castilian set out for Andalusia, but was no sooner got into the Spanish Territories, than he took the Madrid Road; and as soon as he arriv'd, went strait to the Minister's House, and sent him word that Sancho, Pay-Master of the Army in Portugal, was just escaped out of Prison, where he had been confin'd by the Usurper, and had some important Business to communicate to him.

It was a very hard matter to gain Access to Olivarez, who had his set Hours of granting Audience, and at which time he sent word the Pay-Master must return. Enrag'd at this Refusal, Sancho cry'd he must, he would speak to him; that his Business was no Trifle, but the Safety of the Kingdom depended on its being immediately reveal'd.

This being told Olivarez, he order'd him to be admitted: Sancho enter'd the Room, and threw himself at his feet, crying the Kingdom was sav'd from the Ruin which threaten'd it, since he had gain'd Admittance to one, in whose power it was to prevent it; then told the whole Story of the Duke of Medina's Intent, encourag'd in it by the King of Portugal, and persuaded to it by the Marquiss Daiamonti, his Design of seizing upon the Galloons, and of making the Soldiers of Andalusia turn their Arms against their King: to justify all which, he deliver'd those Letters given him by the Franciscan for the Duke and Marquiss, and which contain'd the Scheme of the Conspiracy.

Olivarez, was so surpriz'd at the Strangeness of this News, that he could not for some time utter a word, but at last recovering himself, he prais'd Sancho for his Loyalty, and told him that he deserv'd a double Reward, not only as he had reveal'd the Plot, but also as he had not been afraid to discover it even to the nearest Relation of the chief Conspirator. Then order'd he the Spaniard to be conducted into a private Apartment, and be debarr'd the liberty of speaking to any one.

Mean while the Minister went into the King's Apartment, and told him all that Sancho had related, and shew'd him the Letters which he had deliver'd him.

Never was Prince in a greater Consternation than Philip was, long had he observ'd and dreaded the haughty Carriage of the Gusmans; and as the Loss of Portugal, which he thought was owing to the Dutchess of Braganza, was still fresh in his Memory, he could not forbear telling Olivarez, in a reproachful manner, that all the Misfortunes which the Spaniards had lately suffer'd, they were beholden to his Family for. This Prince wanted neither Wit or Judgment, but he was so addicted to Pleasure, that he would never apply himself to any thing that carry'd the face of Business, but would rather have lost half his Dominions, than be oblig'd to quit his indolent and effeminate manner of Living: Wherefore having vented his Passion in this Reproach, he gave the Franciscan's Letters back to Olivarez, without so much as opening them; ordering him to have them examin'd by a Committee, compos'd of three Members of his Privy-Council, who should make their Report to him.

This was all that Olivarez desir'd, for now he could give the Business what Turn he pleas'd. He chose three of his own Creatures for the Commissioners, into whose hands the Letters were put, and by whom Sancho was examin'd several times; all their Aim was to acquit the Duke of Medina, to which end Olivarez, himself came to Sancho, and affecting an affable Behaviour, and an extraordinary Kindness for the Man; "How, my dear Sancho, said he, shall we contrive to acquit the Duke of Medina of a Crime, which is testify'd only by the Letters of an unknown Monk, and who probably was bribed by the Duke's Enemies to lay this to his charge; for certain it is, that never Governour of Andalusia discharg'd his Duty better, both towards the King and his Province."

Sancho, who was fully persuaded of the Truth of his Deposition, and fear'd that any of the Criminals should be acquitted, lest he should lose his hoped-for Reward, still maintain'd, that he was well assur'd that there was an horrid Conspiracy form'd against the Government in favour of the Duke, who was also at the head of it; that the Marquiss Daiamonti was the Contriver of the Plot; and that he himself had read several of their Letters, which were shewn him by the Franciscan, and was certain, that if Olivarez did not prevent it in time, all Andalusia would be up in Arms, to make their Governour their Monarch.

Olivarez, very unwilling that this Business should be too narrowly search'd into, took an opportunity of telling the King, that the Monk's Letters had been decypher'd and examin'd, and that he really believ'd him to be some Wretch who had been bribed to calumniate the Duke; for there was no Letter of his produc'd, nor did Sancho make any formal Deposition against him. However, as it was impossible to be too cautious in such a case as this, his Opinion was, that the Duke must be artfully drawn to Court, for if he had any such Design on foot, it was not safe to arrest him in Andalusia; that some Forces must be sent to Cadiz, under a new Governour; that the Marquiss Daiamonti must be taken up at the same time, and if they were found guilty, his Majesty might deliver them over to the Severity of the Law.

This haughty Minister's Will was not only generally a Law to the Subjects of Spain, but was always one to the King; who told him, that he should manage this Business as he thought fit, for he left it entirely to him. Upon this Olivarez sent his Nephew, Don Lewis d'Haro, to the Duke of Medina, to tell him what had been depos'd against him, and with Orders, that guilty or not guilty, he should immediately come to Court, which if he did, his Pardon should be granted; but that if he defer'd his Journey, it would no longer be in his power to procure it.

This Message thunder-struck the Duke of Medina, and he saw himself under a necessity of obeying, or immediately flying into Portugal: but then considering how ignominious it was to spend his days in Indolence, and live a banish'd Man, especially in a Country where there was no Employment worthy of him, and at the same time knowing how great Olivarez's Power was; he resolv'd to trust him: and set out for Madrid, and with such diligence did he pursue his Journey, that the King was immediately inclin'd to believe him innocent, or to forgive him, should he be found guilty.

Whilst Don Lewis d'Haro was employ'd in this Business, a Messenger was sent to take up the Marquiss Daiamonti; and the Duke of Ciudad-real march'd into Cadiz at the head of 5000 Men.

As soon as the Duke of Medina arriv'd at Madrid, he went and alighted at Olivarez's House, to whom he confess'd the Conspiracy, shew'd him the Scheme by which they were to proceed, but cast all the Odium of it upon the Marquiss. Olivarez that instant introduc'd him into the King's Closet, where he threw himself at his Majesty's feet, and with Tears confess'd his Crime, and begg'd his pardon. Philip, who was of a soft and compassionate nature, mix'd his Tears with the Duke's, and easily forgave him. But as it would have been very imprudent to have expos'd him to the same Temptation a second time, he was order'd to stay at Court; part of his Estate was also confiscated, the King being sensible, that had he not been too rich, and too powerful, he would never have made an Attempt of this kind: and a Governour and a Garison were plac'd in Saint Lucar de Barameda, the Town in which the Dukes of Medina Sidonia generally resided.

Olivarez, to persuade the King that his Relation's Repentance was sincere, advis'd him to send a formal Challenge to the Duke of Braganza; which he refus'd at first, objecting that both Divine and Human Laws forbad Duels. But Olivarez persisting in his Resolution of having one sent, Medina reply'd, that he could not in Conscience come to this Extremity with his Brother-in-law, unless the King would obtain a Bull from the Pope, which should secure him from the Censure of the Church, which always excommunicated Duelists.

Olivarez answer'd him, that this was not a time for Scruples of Conscience, but that he must now think of satisfying both the King and People of the Sincerity of his Repentance; that in short it was no matter whether he would fight or not, provided he would not disown a Challenge, which he would publish in his Name. The Duke, who now plainly saw that Olivarez's Intent was only to amuse the People, consented to it, and the Minister drew up one himself. Several of them were sent into Portugal, as well as into most Courts of Europe. A Copy of it may probably not be displeasing to the Reader, who will be surpriz'd to see a Challenge, which by its Length, Formality, and Stile, would better have became a Knight-Errant of old, than such a Prince as the Duke of Medina Sidonia was.

Decem. 6.

The Queen he left at Villa-viciosa, knowing that her Presence was necessary there, to keep the Provinces in awe. Every where, upon the Roads to Lisbon, they met with infinite Numbers of People, who crouded forwards to see the King; who had the satisfaction every where of hearing the People blessing him, and cursing the Spaniards. All the Nobility, with the whole Court, and the Magistrates of the City, met him at a great distance from Lisbon, and he enter'd the Town amidst the Acclamations of a joyful People.

That Evening there were Illuminations every where, and Fireworks in every publick Place; each Citizen in particular had a Bonfire before his door, which made a Spaniard say, "The Duke of Braganza was a happy Prince, who had got a whole Kingdom for a Bonfire." Nor was it long indeed before he was Master of the whole Kingdom, every Town follow'd the Example of their Capital, and seem'd as if they had a Plot ripe for Execution. Fresh Couriers every day arriv'd, who brought News of Towns, and sometimes of whole Provinces, which had driven the Castilians out, and proclaim'd the Duke of Braganza. Nor were many of the Spanish Governours more resolute than the Commander of the Citadel of Lisbon; and whether they wanted Soldiers, Ammunition, or Courage, is uncertain, but most of them surrender'd, without so much as giving the Portuguese the trouble of firing a Gun. In short, they fled the Kingdom like so many Criminals who had broke out of Prison; each Man dreaded Vasconcellos's Fate, and trembled at the sight of an incens'd Multitude: nor was there a Spaniard left in the whole Kingdom, but those who were taken into Custody, and all this in less than a Fortnight's time.

Don Ferdinand de la Cueva, Commander of the Citadel of St. Juan, at the Mouth of the Tagus, was the only Man who offer'd to make any resistance, and to preserve the Place for the King his Master. The Garison was wholly compos'd of Spaniards, the Officers brave, and resolv'd to hold it out to the last; and therefore, as soon as the Portuguese approach'd them, made a vigorous Defence. They were oblig'd to besiege it in form; to that end they brought Cannon from Lisbon, and open'd the Trenches before it, which they carry'd as far as the Counterscarp, spite of the Besieged's continual Fire, and their frequent Sallies. But the King, who knew that treating with the Commander would be not only the safest, but the shortest way, made him such advantageous Proposals, that the Governour could not resist the Temptation; but dazled with the Prospect of the vast Sum which was offer'd, besides a Commandry of the Order of Christ, and pretending that his Garison was not strong enough to hold out a Siege, he surrender'd upon Terms, spite of the chief Officers, who refus'd to sign the Capitulation.

This done, the King thought it best not to defer his Coronation, that he might thereby confirm his Royalty, and consecrate his Majesty. The Ceremony was perform'd on the Fifteenth of December with all the Magnificence imaginable; the Duke d'Aveiro, the Marquiss de Villareal, the Duke de Carmino, his Son, the Count de Monsano, and all the other Grandees of the Kingdom, being present. The Archbishop of Lisbon, at the head of all the Clergy of his Diocese, and accompany'd by several other Bishops, met him at the Door of the Cathedral; there he was solemnly acknowledg'd by the States of the Kingdom their Rightful and Lawful King: after which every one of them took the Oath of Allegiance.

Some few Days after the Coronation, the Queen arriv'd at Lisbon with a sumptuous Equipage and numerous Retinue. All the Court went out of Town to meet her, and she already had with her all the Officers of her Houshold. The King himself met her at some distance from the Town. This Prince omitted nothing which might make her Entry appear magnificent, and convince the People that he believ'd she had very much contributed to the placing the Crown upon his Head. Every one observ'd, that notwithstanding her Fortune was alter'd, yet was not the Queen in the least chang'd, but behav'd herself as majestically, as if she had been born to, and was educated for the Possession of a Throne.

---

Such was the Success of this great Enterprize, as happily finish'd, as it was prudently begun; which may be reckon'd a sort of Miracle, considering the vast Number of Persons, and the different Quality and Inclinations of those who were let into the Secret: Nor can it be accounted for, but from the natural Hatred which the Portuguese had to a Spanish Government; a Hatred! which took its first Rise from the frequent Wars which these neighbouring Nations waged against one another, ever since they had been Monarchies; as well as from their being both concern'd in the Discovery of the Indies, and the frequent Debates which they had concerning their Commerce; these at last grew into an inveterate Hatred, which was now encreas'd by the Tyranny of Spain.

The News of the Revolution soon reach'd the Court of Spain. D'Olivarez was almost driven to Despair at the hearing it; he saw his own Project miscarry, and Ruin threatning his Country, which might have been easily prevented, but could not now be remedy'd. Nor had Spain any need of acquiring new Enemies, the French and Dutch Troops already employ'd their utmost Forces, with much ado they resisted their combin'd Strength; and the Revolt of Catalonia, he fear'd, might invite other Provinces to do the like.

There was no one now in the Court of Madrid ignorant of the News, but the King himself; every one thought that he ought to be inform'd of it, yet no one dar'd undertake the ungrateful Task, for fear of incurring the Minister's Displeasure, whose implacable Temper they knew too well, to hope that he would ever forgive an Offence of this nature. At last the Duke, seeing that the Story was too well known to be any longer conceal'd from the King, and fearing that some of his Enemies, either to ingratiate or revenge themselves, should tell it in such a manner, that the whole Fault would seem to fall upon him, he resolv'd to be himself the Messenger, and coming up to the King, with a serene Look, and a Face on which a dissembled Joy sat confess'd, "I wish your Majesty Joy," said he, "of a noble Dutchy, and a fine Estate, which are lately fallen to you." "How Olivarez!" answer'd the King; "what do you mean?" "Mean!" reply'd the Minister; "why the Duke of Braganza is run mad, the Mob have proclaimed him King of Portugal, and he has accepted the Title; so that now all he has is confiscated, and you have a good Pretence to rid yourself of the whole Family: Henceforwards you may reign King of Portugal, nor fear that any one will dispute your Title to that Kingdom."

As weak a Prince as Philip was, he easily comprehended the meaning of these words; but as he could no longer see but thro his Minister's Eyes, he only told him, That he must take care betimes to put an end to a Rebellion, whose Consequence might otherwise prove dangerous.

Jan. 28.
1644.

Mean while the King of Portugal took all the necessary Measures to confirm his new Authority. As soon as he came to Lisbon, he nam'd Governours for every Town of Portugal, as much distinguish'd for their Fidelity to him, as for their Experience and approv'd Valour; who immediately, with what Soldiers they could get together, went to take possession of their Command, and to put the Place in a posture of Defence. At the same time recruiting Commissions were given out; and the Solemnity of his Coronation being over, he call'd together the States of the Kingdom: in which, to prevent all the Doubts and Scruples which might rise in the Minds of the People, his Pretensions to the Crown were examin'd, and by a solemn Decree of the States he was acknowledg'd Rightful and Lawful King, as being descended from Prince Edward, Son to King Emanuel; whereas the King of Spain was only descended from a Daughter of the same King Emanuel, who also by the Fundamental Laws of Portugal was excluded the Succession, having espous'd a foreign Prince.

In this Assembly the King declar'd, that he would content himself with his own Estate, and that the usual Royal Revenue should be apply'd to the defraying of the extraordinary Expences, and paying the Debts of the Kingdom. And the better to ingratiate himself with the People, he took off all the Taxes which the oppressing Spaniards had laid upon them.

To all the considerable Offices and Employments he promoted those of the Conspirators, whose Birth and Capacity might give them just Pretensions to it, and who had shewn the greatest Desire of raising him to the Throne. In this Promotion no notice was taken of Pinto; the King did not think his Royalty sufficiently confirm'd, to venture at raising one of his Servants, and whose Extraction was but mean. However, the Prince was not in the least unmindful of his Service, and without having the Title of a Minister of State, he had the Authority of one; so great was his Influence over his Master, and such entire Confidence did he repose in him.

Having given all the necessary Orders within the Kingdom, he resolv'd to assure himself of some foreign Assistance in case of necessity, as well by making strict Alliances with all the Enemies of Spain, as by raising them new ones. To this end he endeavour'd to persuade the Duke of Medina Sidonia, Governour of Andalusia, and his Brother-in-law, to follow his Example, shake off the Spanish Yoke, and make himself an independent Prince. The Marquiss Daiamonti, a Spanish Nobleman, and related to the Queen of Portugal, was to negotiate this Business, the Success of which will be seen in the Sequel of this History.

The King of Portugal made a League offensive and defensive with the Dutch; France promis'd him its Protection, and he sent Ambassadors to all the Courts of Europe, that his Title might be acknowledg'd by their Princes. But the King of Spain was so destitute of Men, Catalonia employing all his Forces, that he did very little all that Campaign for the Recovery of Portugal, and even what he did undertake met with no Success.

Some little time after this, News was brought that Goa, and all those other Places which belong'd to Portugal, whether in the Indies, Africa, or in Peru, had follow'd the Example of their European Masters, and revolted from the Spaniards. Thus was the King flatter'd with the Prospect of a happy Reign, and rejoic'd to see Peace and Tranquillity preserv'd within his Kingdom, whilst his Arms met with Success abroad; little suspecting the Danger which threaten'd his Life and Crown, both which he had almost lost by a cursed Conspiracy, which was form'd even in the midst of that Prince's Court.

The Archbishop of Braga, as has before been observ'd, was wholly devoted to the King of Spain, during whose Reign in Portugal he had had a great share in the Ministry. He now plainly saw, that he must never hope for any Preferment, unless the Spanish Government could be again introduc'd into that Kingdom; besides, he fear'd that the new King, who out of a tender regard to his Character, had not had him put into Prison with the other Spaniards, might alter his Mind, and seeing his Authority once confirm'd, and dreading no longer the Danger of incensing the People, or provoking the Inquisition, might make him share the Fate of those, whose Courage or Politicks 'twas thought might prove prejudicial to the new King's Government, and who had all been depriv'd of their Liberty. But the chief Motive which induc'd him to undertake something for their Cause, was his Affection to the late Vice-Queen: with impatience he beheld that Princess under Confinement, especially in a Place where he thought it was her Right to rule; and his Rage was violently increas'd by the Orders which were given her Guards to admit neither the Prelate, nor any other Person of Quality, the King having been inform'd that she endeavour'd to infuse Sentiments of Rebellion into all those Portuguese who went to visit her; and therefore thought fit to deprive her of that Liberty, which she so palpably abus'd. As just and as necessary as this Proceeding was, the Archbishop call'd it cruel and tyrannick; and as he had some Notions of Gratitude, believ'd himself under an Obligation of doing something for the Liberty of a Princess, who had done so much for him. The remembrance of her past Kindness enflam'd his Soul with Anger, and made him resolve to embrace any Opportunity whatsoever of revenging himself on her Enemies, and delivering her out of their hands. But as he plainly saw it would be impossible either to surprize or corrupt her Guards, he could not think of any surer way than going directly to the Fountain-head, and by the Death of the King to restore her Liberty and Authority both at once.

Being fully confirm'd in this Resolution, he began to think of the speediest Means of putting it in execution, well knowing that he should not long enjoy the Place of President of the Palace, which was not as yet taken from him. He plainly saw that it was in vain to follow the King's Measures, by endeavouring to win the People, and make them join with him; their Hatred to the Spaniards being too deeply rooted in their Hearts. The Nobility, he was assur'd, wou'd not assist him, since by their means the Crown was placed upon the Duke of Braganza's Head: he could therefore only depend upon the Grandees, who with envy beheld one that had been their Equal, upon the Throne. The first thing he did, was to assure himself of Olivarez's Protection and Assistance: after which, he began to work upon the Marquiss of Villareal; to whom he represented, that the new King was timorous and diffident, for which reason he sought all opportunities of ruining his Family, lest he should leave a Subject who was capable of disputing the Crown with his Successor: That he and the Duke d'Aveiro, who were both of the Royal Blood, were not thought worthy of any Office or Employment; whilst all Places of Trust were fill'd by a company of factious and seditious People: That with indignation the People saw how little he was valued, and were very much troubled to think that a Person of his Quality and Capacity must spend his time at a Country-Seat, and in an inglorious Ease: That one of his Birth and Estate was too great to be the Subject of so petty a Prince as the King of Portugal: That he had lost a Master in the King of Spain, who only was capable of bestowing such Employments on him as he deserv'd, by reason of the many Kingdoms of which he was Sovereign, and over which he must establish Governours.

Seeing that this Discourse made an impression on the Mind of the Marquiss, he went so far as to assure him, that he had Orders from the King of Spain to promise him the Viceroyalty of Portugal, as a Reward of his Loyalty, in case he would assist him in his Design of recovering that Kingdom.

Notwithstanding what the Archbishop promis'd, the thing was very far from his Heart; his chief Aim being to restore the Dutchess of Mantua to her Liberty and former Authority: for the compassing of which, he thought it very lawful to promise what he never intended to perform; and he knew that ambitious Motives were the likeliest to engage the Marquiss de Villareal, upon whom his fair Speeches had at last such an effect, that he yielded to his Persuasions, and promis'd that he, with his Son the Duke of Camino, would be at the head of the Enterprize.

This Prelate being thus assur'd of these two Princes, made it his next business to engage the Grand Inquisitor, who was his intimate Friend, and than whom no one could be more necessary in carrying on their great Design; seeing that by his means he should also prevail upon all the Officers belonging to the Inquisition, a People more to be dreaded by honest Men than Rogues, and who bear a great sway amongst the Portuguese. He endeavour'd at first to alarm his Conscience, by reminding him of the Oath of Allegiance which he had taken to the King of Spain, and which he ought not to break in favour of an usurping Tyrant; but finding the Inquisitor a true Churchman, over whom Interest had a greater sway than Conscience, he told him that he must join in the Plot, if he hoped to keep his Place much longer, for that the new King made it his business to give all the Employments to Persons whose Fidelity he could depend upon.

After this, he spent several Months in encreasing the Number of Conspirators, the chief of which were the Commissary de la Crusada; the Count d'Armamar, Nephew to the Archbishop; the Count de Ballerais; Don Augustin Emanuel; Antonio Correa, that Clerk of Vasconcellos, to whom Menezes had given divers Stabs on the first Day of the Revolution; Laurento Pidez Carvable, Keeper of the Royal Treasury; with several others, who were the Creatures of the Spanish Ministers, to whom they ow'd their Fortunes and their Places, and which they could not hope to keep long, unless by once more introducing the Spanish Government.

There were also a vast number of Jews who were concern'd in the Plot, and who had long liv'd at Lisbon in an outward Profession of the Christian Faith. These had lately offer'd the King a vast Sum of Money, if he would free them from the Persecution of the Inquisitors, and let them have their Synagogues at Lisbon; but the Prince rejected their Offer, and deny'd their Petition. This had thrown the chief of them into a great Consternation, for appearing at the head of the Petitioners, they had made themselves known, and thereby expos'd themselves to all the Torments which the Inquisition could invent.

With these the Archbishop took care to get acquainted, and taking advantage of the Confusion they were in, promis'd them his Protection, which was not to be despis'd, since he had such an Influence over the Grand Inquisitor; but insinuated at the same time, that they were in danger of being banish'd Portugal by the King, who affected very much to be thought a true and pious Catholick: and at the same time promis'd in the Name of the King of Spain, that if they would be instrumental to his Restoration, they should have Liberty of Conscience, and Leave openly to profess their Religion.

So violent was the Passion of the Archbishop, that he was not asham'd to make use of the profess'd Enemies of Jesus Christ, to drive a Christian Prince from a Throne, which rightfully belong'd to him; and this was perhaps the first time that ever the Inquisition and Synagogue went hand in hand together.

Several Schemes were propos'd, but at last this, which was drawn by the Archbishop, and approv'd of by the first Minister of Spain, was agreed upon; That the Jews should set fire to the four Corners of the Palace on the 5th of August, and at the same time to several Houses both in the City and Suburbs, that the People might every where be employ'd in extinguishing the Fire; that the Conspirators should all fly to the Palace under pretence of assisting, and that amidst the Horrour and Confusion which this vast Conflagration would cause, some of them should assassinate the King; that the Duke de Camino should seize the Queen and her Children, who might be as serviceable to them in regaining the Citadel, as the Dutchess of Mantua had been to their Enemies; that at the same time there should be Fireworks ready to be play'd off, to set the Portuguese Fleet on fire; that the Archbishop, with the Grand Inquisitor and all his Officers, should march thro the Town, to keep the People in awe, and prevent their coming to the Assistance of the King, so much do they dread the Power of the Inquisition; and that the Marquiss de Villareal should take the Administration upon him, till they had receiv'd Orders from the Court of Spain.

But as they had not the least reason to hope that the People would second them, they thought it necessary to make sure of some Troops, and to that end wrote to Olivarez to send a Fleet towards the Coasts of Portugal, which should be ready to enter the Port of Lisbon at the time when the Conspiracy should break out; and that there should be some Forces on foot on the Frontiers of the Kingdom, which should be in a readiness to act against any Place, which would not willingly surrender to the King of Spain.

But the most difficult part of their Labour was to keep an exact Correspondence with the Spanish Minister: for since the King had been inform'd that the Dutchess of Mantua had sent Letters to Madrid, there was such a strict Guard kept upon the Frontiers of the Kingdom, that no one could go into Castile without the King's own Passport; nor did they dare attempt to corrupt the Guards, lest they should reveal what had been offer'd them.

But at last, seeing themselves under an absolute Necessity of acquainting the Spanish Minister with their Design, without which all their Measures would infallibly be broken; they cast their Eyes upon a rich Merchant of Lisbon, who was Treasurer of the Custom-House, and who, by reason of his great Trade, had the King's immediate leave to send Letters into Castile at any time. This Man's Name was Baeze; he outwardly profess'd the Christian Religion, but was suppos'd to be a conceal'd Observer of the Jewish Law. To him they offer'd vast Sums of Money for his Assistance; which, together with the Persuasions of the Jews who were engag'd in the Conspiracy, prevail'd upon him so far, that he promis'd to take care that their Letters should be deliver'd to the Duke d'Olivarez.

To this end he enclos'd the Pacquet directed to the Marquiss Daiamonti, Governour of the first Town on the Frontiers of Spain, believing his Letters safe, when once out of the Dominions of Portugal.

The Marquiss, who was nearly related to the Queen, and was at that time negotiating a Business for the King of Portugal, was very much surpriz'd to see Letters seal'd with the Great Seal of the Inquisition, and directed to the first Minister of Spain; and beginning to fear that his own Business was discover'd, and notice of it hereby given to Olivarez, he open'd them, and found that they contain'd the Scheme of a Conspiracy against the Royal Family, and which was speedily to be put in execution.

Startled at the Contents, he dispatch'd a Courier to the Court of Portugal with the intercepted Letters. It is impossible to express the Surprize of the King, when he saw that three Princes, who were so nearly related to him, with the Archbishop, and several Grandees of the Kingdom, were contriving how to take away his Life, and give his Crown to a Stranger.

He immediately communicated their intended Treason to his Privy-Council, who after a small Deliberation came to a Resolution, which some few days afterwards was executed. The fifth of October was the Day appointed by the Conspirators, and the Time Eleven at Night. That very Morning, about Ten of the Clock, all the Soldiers who were quarter'd in the neighbouring Villages, march'd into Lisbon, it having been given out that they were then to be review'd in the Court of the Palace. The King at the same time gave Notes with his own hand to several Officers and others of his Court, which were seal'd up, with positive Orders not to open them till Twelve, and then punctually to execute the Contents.

A little before Noon the Archbishop and the Marquiss de Villareal were sent for to the Palace about some Business, and coming into the King's Apartment, were arrested without the least noise, or any body's knowing it; and at the same time one of the Captains of the Guard made the Duke de Camino a Prisoner. Those who had receiv'd the seal'd Notes having open'd them, found Orders to arrest such a Man, whom they should convey to such a Prison, and not lose sight of him till farther Orders. In short, Matters were manag'd so prudently, that in less than an hour's time the Forty-seven Conspirators were seiz'd, without so much as giving any one of them time enough to escape, or even the least suspicion that their Plot was discover'd.

The News of their intended Barbarity reaching the ears of the People, they came flocking towards the Palace, and in a tumultuous manner demanded the Prisoners, that they might tear them piece-meal.

Tho the King was well pleas'd with the Affection and Loyalty of his Subjects, yet was he a little troubled to see how easily they could be gather'd together, and what mischief they were at such a time able to do. Wherefore having thank'd them for the care which they took of him, and having promis'd that the Traitors should be punish'd according to Law, he order'd the Magistrates to disperse them.

But as he knew that the most violent Passions of an incens'd People will soon grow cool, and perhaps dwindle into Compassion, when they no longer should consider the Criminals as the worst of Villains, who would have destroy'd their King and Country, but as unhappy Wretches, who must shortly suffer an ignominious Death; he took care to publish, that the Conspirators Intent was to assassinate him and all the Royal Family, to set the whole Town on fire, and those who escaped the raging Flames, should have fallen by the Sword of the Rebels: That Spain being resolv'd to have nothing more to fear from the Portuguese, would have sent all their Citizens into America, to toil like Slaves, and be bury'd alive in those Mines, where so many had already perish'd, and to people the City of Lisbon with a Colony of Castilians.

After this the King order'd the Traitors to be brought to their Tryal, and to this end he appointed Judges, which he took out of the supreme Court of Judicature, and to whom he added two Grandees of the Kingdom, upon account of the Archbishop of Braga, the Marquiss de Villareal, and the Duke de Camino.

The King put their Letters, which they had sent to Olivarez, into the hands of those who were appointed to prosecute them; but with Orders not to make use of them, if they could by any other means prove them guilty of High Treason, lest the Court of Spain should thereby discover the Correspondence which he held with the Marquiss Daiamonti: but there was no necessity of producing them to discover the Truth; for Baeze, who was the first that was brought to the Bar, contradicted himself in almost every Question which was ask'd him, and being put to the Torture, his Courage fail'd him, he confess'd his Crime, and discover'd the whole Plan of the Conspiracy. He own'd that their Design was to kill the King, that the Office of the Inquisition was now full of Arms, and that they waited only for Olivarez's Answer to execute their Design.

Most of the other Conspirators were put to the Torture, and their Deposition entirely agreed with Baeze's. The Archbishop, the Grand Inquisitor, the Marquiss de Villareal, and the Duke de Camino, being unwilling to suffer the Torments of the Question, confess'd their Crime. These two last were condemn'd to be beheaded, the rest of the Lay-Traitors to be hang'd, drawn and quarter'd, and the Sentence of the Ecclesiasticks was refer'd to the King himself. Upon this the King immediately assembled his Council, and told them, that the consequence of putting so many Persons of Quality to death, altho they were criminal, might be fatal: That the chief Conspirators were of the first Families of the Kingdom, whose Relations would be for ever his conceal'd Enemies, and that the Desire of revenging their Death would be the unhappy Source of new Plots: That the Consequence of the Death of Count d'Egmont in Flanders, and of the Guises in France, had prov'd fatal: That if he pardon'd some of them, and chang'd the Sentence of the others into a Punishment less severe than Death, he should for ever win theirs, their Friends, and their Kindreds Hearts, and bind them to his Service by the Ties of Gratitude: but yet, That notwithstanding he himself was inclin'd to Mercy, he had assembled his Council to know their Opinions, and to follow that which should seem the most reasonable, and the most just.

The Marquiss de Ferreira was the first who spoke, and was for having them executed without delay: he represented, That in such cases as these Justice only ought to be consulted, and that Mercy was most dangerous: That Pardon would seem not so much the Effect of the Goodness, as Weakness of the Prince, or the Fear of their threatning powerful Friends: That if these should go unpunish'd, it would bring the Government into Contempt, and encourage their Relations to deliver them out of Prison, or perhaps to carry Matters farther: That now, at his Accession to the Crown, he ought, by an Example of Severity, to deter others from ever attempting the like. He urg'd farther, That they were Traitors not only to the King, but also to the State, whose present Constitution they had endeavour'd to subvert: That he ought rather to hearken to the Justice which he ow'd his People, and punish these Criminals, than to his own Inclination of forgiving them, especially at a time when his Preservation and the publick Safety were inseparable.

The whole Council being of the same opinion, the King yielded, and the next day Sentence was executed. The Archbishop of of Lisbon being willing to save one of his Friends, came to the Queen, and sollicited her for a Pardon, with all the Assurance of a Man, who thought that nothing could be deny'd him, and that his former Services might claim a much greater Favour. But the Queen, who was convinc'd of the Justice and absolute Necessity of their suffering the Law, and how much a Distinction of this nature would incense the Friends and Relations of the rest, answer'd the Archbishop in few words, but with such a Tone, as made him see it would be in vain to urge his Request any farther; "My Lord, the only Favour I can now grant you, is to forget that you ever ask'd me this."

The King, unwilling to disoblige the Clergy, and especially the Court of Rome, who had not as yet acknowledg'd him King, or receiv'd his Ambassadors, would not suffer the Archbishop of Braga, or the Grand Inquisitor, to be executed, but condemn'd them to a perpetual Imprisonment; where the Archbishop shortly after died of a violent Fever, a Disease often fatal to State-Prisoners, who for some politick Reason must not be led to open Execution.

Nothing could be equal to the Surprize of Olivarez, when this News was brought him; he could not imagine by what means the King of Portugal had discover'd their Design, nor would it ever have been known, had not an Accident happen'd, which made him see that it was the Marquiss Daiamonti, who had unravel'd the dark Design, and acquainted the King with it.

This Prince still kept a very good Correspondence with the Enemies of Spain, his Ports were open to the Fleets of France and Holland; he had a Resident at Barcelona, and encourag'd the revolting Catalonians: in short, he did all he could to weaken Spain, not only by increasing the Rage of its Foes, but also by endeavouring to raise up new ones. To this end, he had already inclin'd the Duke de Medina Sidonia, his Brother-in-law, to rebel; whom the Marquiss Daiamonti, a Castilian, and their mutual Confidant, at length entirely seduced. This Nobleman was, as has been before observ'd, nearly related to the Queen of Portugal, and the Duke of Medina: He was Governour of a Place at the Mouth of the Guadiano, and just on the Frontiers of Portugal, which made it easy for him to keep a good Correspondence with that Court; nor did he question, but that by being serviceable to two such powerful Families, he should easily make his own Fortune. He was valiant, enterprizing, hated the first Minister, and at the same time did not in the least value his Life; a Quality so very necessary to those who embark themselves in any dangerous Design.

He wrote privately to the Duke, to congratulate him upon the Discovery of the Archbishop's Plot, and the Preservation of the Life of the Queen his Sister, and all the Royal Family; he at the same time observ'd how grateful it must be to him to see the Crown of Portugal one day adorn the Head of his Nephews, which made that Kingdom a sure Refuge for him in time of Distress: which perhaps might be too near at hand, since he could never reckon himself safe while Olivarez was at the head of Affairs, whose only aim was to ruin all the Grandees; nor was it to be suppos'd that the crafty Statesman would long leave him Governour of so large a Province, and in the Neighbourhood of Portugal: That he would advise him seriously to reflect on all these things, and let him know his Resolutions; to which end he should send him a Person in whom he could confide, and to whom they both might safely trust their Secret.

The Duke was naturally proud and ambitious, and with Envy had beheld his Brother-in-law raising himself to the Throne; nor would he, on his side, willingly neglect any Opportunity of doing the like. Believing by what the Marquiss said, that he had some very advantageous Proposal of this kind to make him, he sent Lewis de Castile, his Confidant, to Daiamonti, who seeing his Credentials, at once open'd his Mind, and bid him remember with what ease the Duke of Braganza had made himself Master of the Crown of Portugal; nor could there ever be a more favourable time for the Duke of Medina Sidonia to do the like, and make himself independent of the Crown of Spain.

After this he represented the Weakness of that Kingdom, which was exhausted by the Wars which the French and Dutch had continually waged against them: That Catalonia now employ'd all its Forces, nor would the King know how to help himself, should Andalusia rise in Arms against him, and the War be thus carry'd into the very Heart of the Kingdom: That the People would certainly side with him, being always fond of a new Government; besides which, they had reason enough to complain of the old one, which had so oppress'd them with Taxes, and extorted such vast Sums from them: That the Duke of Medina was as well beloved by the Andalusians, as the Duke of Braganza was at the time of the Revolution by the Portuguese: That the only thing which now remain'd to be done, was to gain all those, who, under him, were Governours of Towns and Forts, without entrusting them with the Secret, which might be done; and to fill all Places of Trust with his surest Friends: That as soon as the Galloons, which were expected from the Indies, arriv'd, he should seize them, and the Riches which were on board would defray the Expences of this Enterprize: That the King of Portugal, with his Allies, should have a Fleet ready to enter Cadiz, and there land a sufficient Number of Forces, to subdue those who would unseasonably shew their Loyalty to Spain.

Lewis de Castile being return'd to his Master, gave him a faithful Account of all that had pass'd between him and the Marquiss. The Duke, dazled with the Prospect of a Crown, resolv'd to hazard every thing, rather than fail of obtaining one. He was chief Commander there both by Sea and Land, as Captain-General of the Ocean, and Governour of the Province, in which he also had a very large Estate, and several Towns under his own immediate Jurisdiction. This seem'd very much to facilitate his Design, and made him believe, that it was in his power to put a Crown upon his Head whenever he pleas'd.

Upon this he sent Lewis de Castile back to the Marquiss, that they might together agree upon the properest Measures of accomplishing their Project, and especially of engaging the Crown of Portugal to lend them all the Assistance it possibly could. Mean while, he himself was disposing every thing for the intended Revolution; he put his own Creatures in all those Places where their Assistance would be most serviceable to him; he frequently would pity the Soldiers, who were not paid as they ought to be, and the People, who were over-burden'd with excessive Taxes.

The Marquiss Daiamonti was well pleas'd to see the Duke in that Disposition he had long wish'd to see him in; he wanted to acquaint the King of Portugal with it, but was unwilling to trust to Letters, and fear'd he could not send a Messenger so privately, but that the Court of Spain might discover it, and have just cause to mistrust his Fidelity: However, at last he cast his eyes upon a crafty and intriguing Monk, who for love of Money, or hope of Preferment, would undertake any thing; he was call'd Father Nicholas de Valasco, of the Order of St. Francis. No one could be fitter for his purpose, since in the Countries where the Inquisition is, this Habit is so much respected, that no one would dare to pry into his Actions, and observe his Steps.

As soon as he had receiv'd his Instructions, he came to Castro-Marino, the first Town on the Frontiers of Portugal, pretending to ransom some Castilian Prisoners which were detain'd in Portugal. The King, who had notice given him of it, by a Letter from the Marquiss Daiamonti, was desir'd to seize him, and bring him to Court: This was accordingly done; he was arrested as a Spy, loaded with Chains, and brought to Lisbon as a State-Criminal, whom the Ministry themselves would examine; where he was immediately cast into Prison, and seemingly watch'd very strictly: some time after he was set at liberty, since upon Examination it appear'd, that his only Intent was to ransom some Castilian Prisoners; and partly, to make him amends for his former ill Usage, he was permitted to come to Court, to treat with the proper Officer about it.

The King saw him himself several times, and promis'd him, that as a Reward of his Industry and faithful Service, he would give him a Bishoprick. The Monk, flatter'd with the hopes of the Mitre, would never stir from the Palace; he made his court to the Queen, and was always waiting upon the Ministers: He wanted to be let into all the State-Intrigues, and did all he could to shew what Credit he had at Court; and thus, without directly revealing his Secret, he betray'd it by his Pride and Inconsiderateness. It plainly appear'd, that the Severity of his Prison was only a blind, and the Examination of the Ministry a pretence to introduce him into Court. Many and various were the Conjectures which were made about his real Business there; but at last a Castilian, who was Prisoner at Lisbon, discover'd the whole Intrigue.

This Castilian, nam'd Sancho, was a Creature of the Duke of Medina Sidonia's, and, before the late Revolution, Pay-Master of the Spanish Army in Portugal. He, with the rest of his Countrymen who were taken up at that time, groan'd in Confinement, nor had they any prospect of Liberty; but hearing of this Monk, and being inform'd of his Country, his extravagant Conduct, his Credit at Court, and several other Circumstances, which made it plain that he was there employ'd in some secret Business; he thought he had now an opportunity of obtaining his Liberty, and with this hope he wrote the Monk a long Letter, full of Expressions fit to sooth his Vanity; in it he complain'd, that the King of Portugal detain'd him in Prison, (with the other Castilians) who was a Servant and Creature of the Duke his Brother-in-law: and to confirm it, he sent him several Letters, wrote to him by that Prince himself some little time before the Revolution, in which he treated him as one in whom he repos'd an entire Confidence.

The Franciscan answer'd Sancho's Letter, and assur'd him, that nothing could recommend him more to him, than his belonging to the Duke of Medina; that he would use all his endeavour to procure him his Liberty, but in the mean time he must take care not so much as to open his mouth about it. The Spaniard waited some days for the Effect of his Promise, and at last sent him a second Epistle, in which he represented, that seven Months were expir'd since he was cast into Prison; that the Spanish Minister seem'd to have quite forgotten him, since he neither talk'd of ransoming or exchanging him; and that therefore he had no hopes of Liberty left, but what were built upon the Charity and Interest of the Reverend Father.

The Monk, who thought he should very much oblige the Duke of Medina, by procuring Sancho his Freedom, begg'd it of the King, and obtain'd it. He went to the Prison himself, to fetch him out of it, and offer'd to have him included in a Passport, which was to be given to some of the Dutchess of Mantua's Servants, who were then returning to Madrid. But the crafty Castilian answer'd him, that Madrid was a Place to which he could never more return; that he must not pretend to appear at Court, unless he desir'd to be thrown into Prison again, seeing that Olivarez was so severe and unjust, that he would expect his Accounts to be made up, altho in the late Revolution he had been stript not only of his Money, but had had his Books also taken from him: To this he added, that he desir'd nothing more than to be near the Duke of Medina, his Patron, who was both able and willing, he did not question, to advance him.

The Franciscan wanting somebody whom he could trust his Secret to, and by whom he might give the Marquiss Daiamonti a strict Account of his Negotiation, cast his eyes upon the Castilian, who seem'd very much attach'd to the Interest of the Duke of Medina. To this end he detain'd the Spaniard some time, pretending that he could not as yet procure him a Passport, tho his Intent was to observe him, and see whether or not he was a Person fit to be entrusted. Their being frequently together begat an intimate Acquaintance, which they both mutually desir'd; the Monk, that he might engage the Spaniard to serve him; and the Spaniard, that he might make himself Master of the Monk's Secret.

This holy Man, like the rest of his Brethren, puff'd up with Vanity, could not forbear one day telling his Friend, that he would not long see him in that Garb in which he was, that he had a Bishoprick promis'd him, and that he did not despair of obtaining the Roman Purple. Sancho, to make him prattle the faster, pretended that he did not believe a word of what he said. The Fryar laugh'd at his Incredulity: "And I suppose, continued he, you would not believe me neither, if I should tell you, that the Duke of Medina will shortly be a King." The other, to get the Secret quite out of him, urg'd the Impossibility of it; upon which the Monk told him the whole Story: That Andalusia must in a little time acknowledge the Duke for their Sovereign: That the Marquiss Daiamonti, who had also discover'd the Spanish Plot to the King of Portugal, was the chief Negotiator and Instrument of this intended Revolution: That he should shortly see strange Alterations in Spain, and that he had now an opportunity of making his Fortune only by being secret, and taking care to deliver some Letters from him to the Duke and Marquiss.

Sancho, well pleas'd at the Discovery of this Secret, which he had long labour'd to get out of him, renew'd his Protestations of Fidelity and Secrecy, and his Offers of Service; and having taken Velasco's Letters, told him, that he should be proud of the Opportunity of serving the Prince, and hoped that he should be thought worthy of the Honour of bringing him an Answer. Upon this the Castilian set out for Andalusia, but was no sooner got into the Spanish Territories, than he took the Madrid Road; and as soon as he arriv'd, went strait to the Minister's House, and sent him word that Sancho, Pay-Master of the Army in Portugal, was just escaped out of Prison, where he had been confin'd by the Usurper, and had some important Business to communicate to him.

It was a very hard matter to gain Access to Olivarez, who had his set Hours of granting Audience, and at which time he sent word the Pay-Master must return. Enrag'd at this Refusal, Sancho cry'd he must, he would speak to him; that his Business was no Trifle, but the Safety of the Kingdom depended on its being immediately reveal'd.

This being told Olivarez, he order'd him to be admitted: Sancho enter'd the Room, and threw himself at his feet, crying the Kingdom was sav'd from the Ruin which threaten'd it, since he had gain'd Admittance to one, in whose power it was to prevent it; then told the whole Story of the Duke of Medina's Intent, encourag'd in it by the King of Portugal, and persuaded to it by the Marquiss Daiamonti, his Design of seizing upon the Galloons, and of making the Soldiers of Andalusia turn their Arms against their King: to justify all which, he deliver'd those Letters given him by the Franciscan for the Duke and Marquiss, and which contain'd the Scheme of the Conspiracy.

Olivarez, was so surpriz'd at the Strangeness of this News, that he could not for some time utter a word, but at last recovering himself, he prais'd Sancho for his Loyalty, and told him that he deserv'd a double Reward, not only as he had reveal'd the Plot, but also as he had not been afraid to discover it even to the nearest Relation of the chief Conspirator. Then order'd he the Spaniard to be conducted into a private Apartment, and be debarr'd the liberty of speaking to any one.

Mean while the Minister went into the King's Apartment, and told him all that Sancho had related, and shew'd him the Letters which he had deliver'd him.

Never was Prince in a greater Consternation than Philip was, long had he observ'd and dreaded the haughty Carriage of the Gusmans; and as the Loss of Portugal, which he thought was owing to the Dutchess of Braganza, was still fresh in his Memory, he could not forbear telling Olivarez, in a reproachful manner, that all the Misfortunes which the Spaniards had lately suffer'd, they were beholden to his Family for. This Prince wanted neither Wit or Judgment, but he was so addicted to Pleasure, that he would never apply himself to any thing that carry'd the face of Business, but would rather have lost half his Dominions, than be oblig'd to quit his indolent and effeminate manner of Living: Wherefore having vented his Passion in this Reproach, he gave the Franciscan's Letters back to Olivarez, without so much as opening them; ordering him to have them examin'd by a Committee, compos'd of three Members of his Privy-Council, who should make their Report to him.

This was all that Olivarez desir'd, for now he could give the Business what Turn he pleas'd. He chose three of his own Creatures for the Commissioners, into whose hands the Letters were put, and by whom Sancho was examin'd several times; all their Aim was to acquit the Duke of Medina, to which end Olivarez, himself came to Sancho, and affecting an affable Behaviour, and an extraordinary Kindness for the Man; "How, my dear Sancho, said he, shall we contrive to acquit the Duke of Medina of a Crime, which is testify'd only by the Letters of an unknown Monk, and who probably was bribed by the Duke's Enemies to lay this to his charge; for certain it is, that never Governour of Andalusia discharg'd his Duty better, both towards the King and his Province."

Sancho, who was fully persuaded of the Truth of his Deposition, and fear'd that any of the Criminals should be acquitted, lest he should lose his hoped-for Reward, still maintain'd, that he was well assur'd that there was an horrid Conspiracy form'd against the Government in favour of the Duke, who was also at the head of it; that the Marquiss Daiamonti was the Contriver of the Plot; and that he himself had read several of their Letters, which were shewn him by the Franciscan, and was certain, that if Olivarez did not prevent it in time, all Andalusia would be up in Arms, to make their Governour their Monarch.

Olivarez, very unwilling that this Business should be too narrowly search'd into, took an opportunity of telling the King, that the Monk's Letters had been decypher'd and examin'd, and that he really believ'd him to be some Wretch who had been bribed to calumniate the Duke; for there was no Letter of his produc'd, nor did Sancho make any formal Deposition against him. However, as it was impossible to be too cautious in such a case as this, his Opinion was, that the Duke must be artfully drawn to Court, for if he had any such Design on foot, it was not safe to arrest him in Andalusia; that some Forces must be sent to Cadiz, under a new Governour; that the Marquiss Daiamonti must be taken up at the same time, and if they were found guilty, his Majesty might deliver them over to the Severity of the Law.

This haughty Minister's Will was not only generally a Law to the Subjects of Spain, but was always one to the King; who told him, that he should manage this Business as he thought fit, for he left it entirely to him. Upon this Olivarez sent his Nephew, Don Lewis d'Haro, to the Duke of Medina, to tell him what had been depos'd against him, and with Orders, that guilty or not guilty, he should immediately come to Court, which if he did, his Pardon should be granted; but that if he defer'd his Journey, it would no longer be in his power to procure it.

This Message thunder-struck the Duke of Medina, and he saw himself under a necessity of obeying, or immediately flying into Portugal: but then considering how ignominious it was to spend his days in Indolence, and live a banish'd Man, especially in a Country where there was no Employment worthy of him, and at the same time knowing how great Olivarez's Power was; he resolv'd to trust him: and set out for Madrid, and with such diligence did he pursue his Journey, that the King was immediately inclin'd to believe him innocent, or to forgive him, should he be found guilty.

Whilst Don Lewis d'Haro was employ'd in this Business, a Messenger was sent to take up the Marquiss Daiamonti; and the Duke of Ciudad-real march'd into Cadiz at the head of 5000 Men.

As soon as the Duke of Medina arriv'd at Madrid, he went and alighted at Olivarez's House, to whom he confess'd the Conspiracy, shew'd him the Scheme by which they were to proceed, but cast all the Odium of it upon the Marquiss. Olivarez that instant introduc'd him into the King's Closet, where he threw himself at his Majesty's feet, and with Tears confess'd his Crime, and begg'd his pardon. Philip, who was of a soft and compassionate nature, mix'd his Tears with the Duke's, and easily forgave him. But as it would have been very imprudent to have expos'd him to the same Temptation a second time, he was order'd to stay at Court; part of his Estate was also confiscated, the King being sensible, that had he not been too rich, and too powerful, he would never have made an Attempt of this kind: and a Governour and a Garison were plac'd in Saint Lucar de Barameda, the Town in which the Dukes of Medina Sidonia generally resided.

Olivarez, to persuade the King that his Relation's Repentance was sincere, advis'd him to send a formal Challenge to the Duke of Braganza; which he refus'd at first, objecting that both Divine and Human Laws forbad Duels. But Olivarez persisting in his Resolution of having one sent, Medina reply'd, that he could not in Conscience come to this Extremity with his Brother-in-law, unless the King would obtain a Bull from the Pope, which should secure him from the Censure of the Church, which always excommunicated Duelists.

Olivarez answer'd him, that this was not a time for Scruples of Conscience, but that he must now think of satisfying both the King and People of the Sincerity of his Repentance; that in short it was no matter whether he would fight or not, provided he would not disown a Challenge, which he would publish in his Name. The Duke, who now plainly saw that Olivarez's Intent was only to amuse the People, consented to it, and the Minister drew up one himself. Several of them were sent into Portugal, as well as into most Courts of Europe. A Copy of it may probably not be displeasing to the Reader, who will be surpriz'd to see a Challenge, which by its Length, Formality, and Stile, would better have became a Knight-Errant of old, than such a Prince as the Duke of Medina Sidonia was.

Don GASPAR ALONCO Perez de Gusman, Duke of Medina Sidonia, Marquiss, Earl, and Baron of Saint Lucar de Barameda, Captain General of the Ocean, of the Coasts of Andalusia, and of the Armies of Portugal, Gentleman of the Bed-Chamber to his Catholick Majesty;

Whom God Preserve.

hereas nothing has been more conspicuous to the whole World, than the treasonable Practices of John late Duke of Braganza; Be also his damnable Intentions known, of seducing and tainting with Disloyalty the faithful Family of the Gusmans, which ever has been, and for the future ever shall be most true and loyal to the King their Master, in whose Service so many of them have shed their Blood. This Usurper has endeavour'd to insinuate into the Minds of Foreign Princes, as well as of his own Rebel Portuguese, that I would aid and assist him, and enter into his Measures; hoping thereby to keep up the Spirits of those who have join'd with him, and to put me out of favour with the King my Master, (whom God preserve) thinking that by these means he should alienate my Duty and Affection from my Master, and then I should consent to his cursed Designs, without that Repugnance which he has found in me. And the better to accomplish his Design, he has made use of a Monk, who was sent by the Town of Daiamonti to Castro-Marino in Portugal, to treat about the Ransom of a prisoner: which Monk being carried to Lisbon, was suborn'd, and persuaded to give out that I was engag'd in the Conspiracy, and that I would permit any Foreign Army to land in Andalusia, to favour their Designs: and to give the better colour to his Story, he shew'd some forg'd Letters, and which he pretended to have receiv'd from me.

All this was done with a Design to persuade several Princes to send him some Forces, and would to God they had, that I might have shewn my Loyalty, by destroying them and their Ships; which will easily appear to have been my Intent, by the Orders which I left on all the Coasts.

These things have been a sore Affliction to me; but what grieves me still more, is, that his Wife should be my Sister, whose Blood I would gladly shed, since by Rebellion tainted and corrupted, that I might give an evident Proof of my Loyalty to my King, and efface all those Suspicions, which these Rumours may have imprinted in the Minds of the People.

1641.

For these Reasons therefore I challenge the said John late Duke of Braganza, as being a Traitor both to God and his King, and invite him to meet me in Person, and in single Combat try our Fortune, with or without Seconds, and arm'd in what manner he please; the Place shall be near Valentia d'Alcantra, which is on the Frontiers both of Castile and Portugal, and where I will wait for him four-score Days, from the first of October to the nineteenth of December of this present Year. The twenty last Days I will wait for him in Person, and on the time which he shall appoint I will enter the Lists; which time, though it be long, I give him, not only that he the said Tyrant, but also that all Europe, nay, that the whole World may know it. To this end, I will send Ten Chevaliers a League within Portugal; as also, he shall send Ten a League within Castile, as Hostages, and on that day I will shew him the Heinousness and Baseness of his Crime.

But if he the said John late Duke of Braganza, should fail meeting me, to give me Gentleman-like Satisfaction, and thereby deprive me of the Opportunity of shewing my Loyalty to the King my Master, and the natural Hatred which our Family has to Traitors; I offer (with Submission to his Catholick Majesty, whom God preserve) my good Town of St. Lucar de Barameda, which always has been the Seat of the Dukes of Medina Sidonia, to any Man who shall kill him. To which end, I beg of his Catholick Majesty, that I may not have any longer the Command of the Army which is to march against him, being so transported with Rage, that I should not be Master of that Sedateness and Conduct, which are so necessary to a General; but that his Majesty would give me leave to be only at the head of a Thousand of my own People, on whose Courage, as well as my own, I may rely, that in case the said Usurper should not accept my Challenge, we may bring him dead or alive to his said Majesty. And that I may not be thought to be wanting in my Duty to my King, I offer one of my best Towns to the first Governour, or other Officer, belonging to the Usurper, who will surrender any Place to the King my Master; never thinking that I can do enough for his Service, since to him, and to his glorious Ancestors, I owe all that I enjoy.

Given at Toledo the 29th of September, 1641.

hereas nothing has been more conspicuous to the whole World, than the treasonable Practices of John late Duke of Braganza; Be also his damnable Intentions known, of seducing and tainting with Disloyalty the faithful Family of the Gusmans, which ever has been, and for the future ever shall be most true and loyal to the King their Master, in whose Service so many of them have shed their Blood. This Usurper has endeavour'd to insinuate into the Minds of Foreign Princes, as well as of his own Rebel Portuguese, that I would aid and assist him, and enter into his Measures; hoping thereby to keep up the Spirits of those who have join'd with him, and to put me out of favour with the King my Master, (whom God preserve) thinking that by these means he should alienate my Duty and Affection from my Master, and then I should consent to his cursed Designs, without that Repugnance which he has found in me. And the better to accomplish his Design, he has made use of a Monk, who was sent by the Town of Daiamonti to Castro-Marino in Portugal, to treat about the Ransom of a prisoner: which Monk being carried to Lisbon, was suborn'd, and persuaded to give out that I was engag'd in the Conspiracy, and that I would permit any Foreign Army to land in Andalusia, to favour their Designs: and to give the better colour to his Story, he shew'd some forg'd Letters, and which he pretended to have receiv'd from me.

All this was done with a Design to persuade several Princes to send him some Forces, and would to God they had, that I might have shewn my Loyalty, by destroying them and their Ships; which will easily appear to have been my Intent, by the Orders which I left on all the Coasts.

These things have been a sore Affliction to me; but what grieves me still more, is, that his Wife should be my Sister, whose Blood I would gladly shed, since by Rebellion tainted and corrupted, that I might give an evident Proof of my Loyalty to my King, and efface all those Suspicions, which these Rumours may have imprinted in the Minds of the People.

1641.

For these Reasons therefore I challenge the said John late Duke of Braganza, as being a Traitor both to God and his King, and invite him to meet me in Person, and in single Combat try our Fortune, with or without Seconds, and arm'd in what manner he please; the Place shall be near Valentia d'Alcantra, which is on the Frontiers both of Castile and Portugal, and where I will wait for him four-score Days, from the first of October to the nineteenth of December of this present Year. The twenty last Days I will wait for him in Person, and on the time which he shall appoint I will enter the Lists; which time, though it be long, I give him, not only that he the said Tyrant, but also that all Europe, nay, that the whole World may know it. To this end, I will send Ten Chevaliers a League within Portugal; as also, he shall send Ten a League within Castile, as Hostages, and on that day I will shew him the Heinousness and Baseness of his Crime.

But if he the said John late Duke of Braganza, should fail meeting me, to give me Gentleman-like Satisfaction, and thereby deprive me of the Opportunity of shewing my Loyalty to the King my Master, and the natural Hatred which our Family has to Traitors; I offer (with Submission to his Catholick Majesty, whom God preserve) my good Town of St. Lucar de Barameda, which always has been the Seat of the Dukes of Medina Sidonia, to any Man who shall kill him. To which end, I beg of his Catholick Majesty, that I may not have any longer the Command of the Army which is to march against him, being so transported with Rage, that I should not be Master of that Sedateness and Conduct, which are so necessary to a General; but that his Majesty would give me leave to be only at the head of a Thousand of my own People, on whose Courage, as well as my own, I may rely, that in case the said Usurper should not accept my Challenge, we may bring him dead or alive to his said Majesty. And that I may not be thought to be wanting in my Duty to my King, I offer one of my best Towns to the first Governour, or other Officer, belonging to the Usurper, who will surrender any Place to the King my Master; never thinking that I can do enough for his Service, since to him, and to his glorious Ancestors, I owe all that I enjoy.

Given at Toledo the 29th of September, 1641.

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