Chapter IV: Part 4

They had betwixt them, divers conferences and meetings upon this new project, and _Don Tadeo_ made every thing so easie, that it was a great pleasure to hear him discourse upon it; but Cardinal _Francesco_, who judged according to the rules of conscience and true policy, laughed it out of doors, and order’d there should be no more mention made of it. This design being thus crushed in the Cradle, to the great displeasure of those that had conceived it, the _Barbarines_ layed aside all thoughts of becoming Princes, and continued in their wonted way of gathering riches, in which they met with all success and facility, by reason of the great experience they had of the interests and business of the Church. And certainly there scarce ever was a more able and capable Nipotismo then this, for no sooner were they in possession of the management of the affairs of _Europe_, but they shewed themselves master Politicians.

And indeed the authority which _Urban_ gave to Cardinal _Francesco_ was not ordinary; and though the precedent Popes, had in effect given all power to their Nephewes, yet were they contented with the substance of the thing, and did not affect new names, and titles. But _Urban_ thought, it was not enough to give the power, except he gave with it the vanity, and appearance of honour; therefore his Nephew _Francesco_, to be Cardinal _Padroen_, that is, Cardinal, Master, and Lord, a title never heard of before in _Rome_; for the Popes his Predecessors, when they spoke of their Nephewes would say, for example, _the Cardinal_ Ludovisio _our Nephew_, _the Cardinal_ Borghese _our Nephew_: but _Urban_ from morning to evening, had nothing in his mouth, but the Cardinal _Padrone_, as, _call the Cardinal_ Padrone, _where is the Cardinal_ Padrone, _spake to the Cardinal Padrone_, _&c._ so that nothing was heard up and down, but Cardinal _Padrone_, to the astonishment of the Embassadours of Christian Princes, who thought themselves honoured enough, to call themselves the Popes Sons, and own him as Father, while he in the presence of their Embassadours, gives the title of _Padrone_ to his Nephew; nay, in the presence of some Princes themselves, he used this Title, as it happened to the Duke of _Parma_, which occurrence, as memorable, I shall here relate.

_Odoardo Farneze_, Duke of _Parma_, was come in the year 1626, into his little state of _Caprarola_, for the giving of some Orders which requir’d his presence; there he received an invitation by a letter from the Pope, brought by _Monsignor Fausto_, the Popes Steward, who waited upon him with the Popes Coaches.

The Dukes intention was not to go to _Rome_, not that he had any aversion to the Pope but because that he was well informed of the teacherous proceedings of the _Barbarines_ towards many Princes, and particularly towards himself.

Nevertheless, for fear, least a denial should be interpreted, as a disrespect to the Popes Majesty; (particularly, having been once before as far as the Gates of _Rome_, without going into the City) and seeing himself so fairly invited, he resolved to go as he was in the habit of a Travellor, and with a slender Court.

The Pope indeed received him with all demonstrations of kindness, but the _Barbarines_ using their wonted dissimulation, after they had given him some publike signes of respect and civility, did likewise afford him some occasion of complaint; of which the Duke being much offended, thought he could do no less, then signifie it to the Pope at his departure, and complain of the proceedings of the Cardinal _Padrone_ towards a Prince of his quality; but he did not give him the Title of _Padrone_, but only of Cardinal _Barbarino_.

The Pope was displeased, to see the Duke thus angred, and went about to appease him, but in vain; for having said that he knew that the Cardinal _Padrone_ had a very great esteem for his person, the Duke interrupted him, and said, _Most Holy Father_; _for my part_, _I know no other Padrone than your holiness_.

This answer was quick, and biting, having been made to the Pope himself, who thereby saw his Title of _Padrone_ laughed at; and indeed the Duke had a great deal of reason to mortifie thus the _Barbarines_, who pretended to treat him more like their subject, then like a Prince.

But the _Barbarines_ ambition stayed not in the Title of Cardinal _Padrone_; they took exceptions against the quality of _Illustrissime_, with which hitherto the Cardinals had been content for so many Ages, but pretending higher, strove to find out some terme that should not be inferiour to the Title of excellency, which Soveraign Princes in _Italy_, and other places, did then take.

This important point was often discussed, and canvassed by _Urban_, and the _Barbarines_, and more then four or five singular Titles came into their fancies; at last they pitched upon the word _Eminency_, which in effect he gave to the Cardinals, not so much for their sake, as for his Nephews. The Princes no sooner heard of it, but that they might be even with him, they took the Title of _Highness_, the _Barbarines_ remaining much mortifyed at it.

But the best of it was, that at first _Urban_ had no mind that any of the Cardinals should use the Title of _Eminency_, except those of his family; but afterwards foreseeing that the world would laugh at him, he made his decree general for all the Cardinals.

All this while it seemed as if the _Barbarines_ had chained good fortune to their desires, all things succeeding according to their wishes; and indeed they were become so high in their commands, that they despised every body, and could hardly brook that any Crown in _Europe_ should oppose, or not condescend to the satisfying of their insatiable inclinations.

Never Prince was more absolute in a conquest, then the _Barbarines_ were in their administration of the Church and City of _Rome_; they laughed at any body; let those that would talke and prate; but nothing but derision and scorn was the share of those that went about to contradict them.

’Tis true, they had the good fortune to meet with little or no opposition, for in the whole consistory of the Cardinals, there were but five, who were not their Creatures, _viz. Medici_, _Savelli_, _Carassa_, _Lauci_, and _Capponial_, creatures of _Paul_ the fifth, and these too being of a quiet spirit, and not undertaking, durst never oppose them stifly: The others who had been made Cardinals by them did nothing but subscribe to the _Barbarines_ pleasure whatever it was, so they lorded it over the Church and State, nay, over all Christendome, as absolute Monarchs of the World.

This uncontrouled power having lasted three and twenty years, _Urban_ their Uncle died, leaving the Church in disorder, the State in debt, and his family in possession of such vast riches, that even the Stewards that managed them, could hardly believe the truth of their accounts. Two hundred and seven and twenty Governments, Dignities, Offices, Abbies, and Benefices of the richest sort, were then in the family of the _Barbarines_; the Revenue of which was so great, that I believe the _Barbarines_ never computed it, though they receiv’d it.

The Catholick King, who is master of so many Provinces, and who takes a pride in filling whole sheets of Paper with his Titles, could not produce halfe so many as the _Barbarines_ could have done after the death of their Uncle.

As for summes of ready mony it is not to be imagined how great they are that they have. ’Tis believed, that Cardinal _Francesco_ alone hath under ground, above two millions of Crowns in Gold; Besides what the Cardinal _Antonio_ hath hidden and spent in his long Exile; And besides what _Don Tadeo_ sent to _Palestrina_, to be buried in a new vault under ground; and it is very certain, that about two months before _Urban_ dyed, there were met in two nights above threescore and ten Mules, loaden with mony, going to _Palestrina_, where _Don Tadeo_ was to receive them.

But we have another argument of the _Barbarines_ prodigious riches. For if _Sixtus_ the Fifth, in five years time, could spend five Millions of Crowns, in buildings and founding of Colledges, and leave five millions more to the Church, and yet give away three Millions at least to his kindred. And if _Gregory_ the Fifteenth in two years time spent vast summs, for the succour of the _Valteline_ and the _Emperour_, and in the embelishing of _Rome_, and yet left to his Relations the value of above three Millions of Crowns. Then I say, let any body judge what riches the Family of the _Barbarines_ are in possession of. They that for the space of three and twenty year have had the whole Popedome at their disposition; and who in all that time never spent for the Church, or in publick Edifices, above four Millions of Crowns in Gold; and yet the people was never more oppressed: therefore we must conclude, That their riches are immense; and if we may calculate them by comparison of what the other Popes Nephews have got, they must have above thirty Millions of Crowns; and they that judge well, will not think it too much.

The power of this Nipotismo expired not with their Uncle; and though under his Successor they suffered a sharp Persecution, yet are they even now at this time so recovered of it, that they still deserve the Title of the Nipotismo _Di Roma_, there being three Cardinals of them alive, a thing which was never seen before, and will scarce be seen hereafter in _Rome_, that there should be three Cardinals of the same Name and Family; and that which is most considerable is, that they are now in great esteem with the _Romans_. _Francesco_, who is the Elder Brother, being respected as a Saint; and if he be alive when the Sea of _Rome_ shall be vacant, he will go near to get the Popedome once more into his family, and the Cardinals ought to choose him for three reasons.

First, Because of the purity of his life, neither can it be said, that he Counterfits Piety, and feigns devotion, as many others have done. Because, it is not possible, that a man shall equally deceive the World in his Infancy, his youth, his riper years, and his old age; therefore, certainly, since this Cardinal hath appear’d, even from his youth, to be what he now is, we ought to conclude him to be of an unfeigned integrity.

The second reason, for which Cardinal _Francesco_ deserves to be Pope, is his great experience in Ecclesiastick and Civil affairs, there being no Cardinal now alive, that is half so well instructed in them as he: so that upon this score Christendome would be sure to be well provided of a Pope.

The third reason is, That the _Barbarines_ being already exceedingly rich, they would not now be so subject to that great avidity of heaping treasure upon treasure as they were at first. But I reckon without mine host, and would do better to leave these thoughts to the Cardinals, who will have time enough to examine them, since _Alexander_ hath of late taken new forces, and is not like to dye yet.

The second Cardinal of this Family, that is _Antonio_, hath by his change of life, wiped away that scandalous impression, which his first demeanours, under the Pontificat of his Uncle, had given of him. And indeed, in that time he did lead a life too full of liberty and debauchery, and did not only scandalize all _Europe_, but by his proud carriage disobliged the Embassadours of many Princes, and made the _Romans_ hate him so, that at midnight they would cry out in the streets, _il Cardinal Antonio serve in Roma di demonio_: but as I have said already, After he once began to frequent the _French_, and follow their humour, he changed his nature, and the _Romans_ changed their note to his advantage, seeing him become generous, full of affability and civility, and much enclin’d to promote learning, so that now they cry _Antonio Barbarino_, _sembra un angelo divino_. But for the Popedome, he need not expect it; for all the Miracles in the World, will not take away altogether an ill impression from the _Italians_, when once it hath had a foundation in their minds.

_Charles Barbarino_, who is the third, is very obsequious to his Uncle _Francesco_, who does with a great deal of care give him such instructions, as may breed Vertue and Piety in him. Many think that most of his good qualities are feigned; but for my part, I think, we ought to judg well of exteriour probity, and leave the secret of dissimulation to him that knowes the heart; though most say, That he is _Cardinal_ Antonio _within_; _and Cardinal_ Francesco _without_.

* * * * *

But now it is time to leave the _Barbarines_, and come to _Donna Olympia’s_ brother in Law, that is _Innocentius_ the Tenth, who was chosen in 1649, contrary to the worlds expectation; not but that he was endowed with sufficient good qualities for so high a post: but that is the least thing that is considered by the Nipotismo, who in the creation of a new Pope are very careful not to advance one who should prove the enemy of their family.

In this Conclave, the _Barbarines_ had resolved to give their votes; and those of their party, rather to Cardinal _Medici_, then to Cardinal _Pamphilio_; and the sooner, because, that upon the point that the Cardinals were to go into the Conclave, there were divers Pasquins made, and amongst the others this, _Quardateri di far Papa_ Pamphilio _che vi Mandarebbe tutti in Esilio_; and this other, _Pamphilio Mandara le Mosche in Esilio_: So that the chiefest aime of the Nipotismo was to procure the exclusion of _Pamphilio_, not only by means of their creatures, but also by a formal opposition from _France_, which the Cardinal _Antonio_ was very earnest for in that Court; but the more he bestirred himself for this exclusion, the more prognosticks there were of a contrary success.

_Innocentius_ being then chosen in spight of the _Barbarines_, began to persecute them most furiously, and with so much rage and passion, that though at first no body pittyed them, yet at last it was thought too severe a proceeding: In the mean time _Rome_ was furnished immediately with another Nipotismo, as if it had been a perpetual custome and tradition of the Church not to be without one.

This Pope had but one Nephew, called _Camillo Pamphilio_; who by him was made Cardinal in the first promotion with the Title of _Padrone_, though he were very unfit for so weighty an Employment. But _Innocent_ did think to instruct him by little, and shape him for business. ’Tis true, that in his Remonstrances, he would be so sharp and crabbed, following the Nature of his Temper, that the Cardinal, farre from learning any thing, was put out of conceit with business, and began to hate it extreamly; and because the Pope continued every day to reproach him with his incapacity and dulness, the poor Cardinal was often forced to feign sickness, and pretend some incommodity to avoyd giving of Audience to Ambassadours, and publick Ministers; thus would he be whole dayes without daring to appear in his Uncles presence, in which time he did nothing but contrive how he should be rid of this yoak; which though of Gold, seemed to him to be of Iron, looking upon himself as upon the greatest slave of the World.

And at last he began to think, that the precedent Popes having declar’d some one of their Nephews, Princes, and married them advantagiously, it would not be amiss that his Uncle should do as much for him. And indeed, when the newes was published, that _Camillo Pamphilio_ was made Cardinal, most wise men wondred at it; Considering, that whereas, all the desires of the precedent Popes had been to eternize their name and family, by marriages with Princesses and persons of great quality; yet that _Innocentius_ having but this Nephew in the World, as the only bud of the _Pamphilian_ family, should not only condescend, but, as it were force him, be a Cardinal, and renounce Marriage; shewing therein an avidity for present honour, but little or no care for his posterity.

But Cardinal _Pamphilio_ considered better of it, and seeing that all the Nipotismo consisted in him alone, resolved to act all the parts of it, and play sometimes the Cardinal and Politician, sometimes the Prince and the gallant, and so make up a perfect Nipotismo.

To help him in the execution of his design there happened the fairest occasion that ever was; for at that very time, the Princess of _Rossana_, being become a Widdow, and having the happy qualities of rich, young, and beautiful; he thought he might gain her; and indeed it succeeded accordingly: for this Lady, though she were demanded in Marriage by divers Soveraign Princes, was pleased to place all her affections upon the Cardinal _Camillo_, who courted her secretly with a resolution to marry her.

Neither is it to be wondred at that so accomplish’d a Lady, should encline to bestow her self upon one who was so far from being lovely: For her end in it was ambition, supposing that by this marriage, she would insinuate her self into the Popes favour, and by her beauty and taking carriage, attract his kindness, and so be mistress of the Church, the state, the Pope, and her husband.

But things fell out farre different to her expectation, for no sooner had the Pope the newes of the match, and that they were promised to one another, but he immediatly banish’d them both from _Rome_.

The Princess made some resistance, and refused to obey this his order; saying in her defence, That _he had liberty to banish his Nephews_, _as much as he pleased_, _but not the Roman Princesses_. Neither would she depart the City, the same day her Husband left it; but some time after she followed, saying, that it was not to obey the Pope, but to go to her Husband.

There was no body in Court or City, who did not pity this Ladies case, and tax the Pope not only of ingratitude towards a princess, who had refused great Princes to marry his Nephew, but also layed brutishness and dulness to his charge, as one who could not see the infinite advantages this match did bring to his family; and to say true, there was nothing in this alliance, that could with any reason move the Popes indignation against his Nephew, who was the only support of the family, and who for his natural defects and incapacity of business, ought rather to have been excused, then reproached with this so advantagious a change of condition; where the fortune, the beauty, the youth, and the parts of the Lady were incomparable qualities, which might be sufficient to make a Queen, besides fecundity, which soon after she shewed.

Yet for all this, the Pope did stop his eares to all reason, and guided, or rather miss-led by his own fancy, and the perswasions of _Donna Olympia_, continued his severity towards this new married couple.

If we may guess at the reasons of this so extraordinary a proceeding, I believe the chiefest was, because, that this Pope by an extravagant capriccio had resolv’d to introduce his Sister in Law, in the place of the other Popes Nipotismo’s; and he accordingly gave to _Donna Olympia_, an absolute authority, not only over the Church and State, but over his own person, not daring to take any resolution without this Ladies leave.

And this was a thing without Example; for if _Alexander_ the sixth gave himself up to _Vanoccia_ the _Roman_ Courtisan, by whom he had many bastards, yet he never suffer’d her to have any hand in the Government, but would divert himself in his houres of recreation with her. Whereas _Donna Olympia_ was called to the _Vatican_, not to serve _Innocentius_, but to command him, which she did with so much authority, that she seemed to be the Pope, and he to be neither a man, nor a Pope.

If ever the Church was shamefully set out, and satyrically painted by the Hereticks, it was in this time; for there was not any place where the publick discourse was not about this extravagant fancy of the Popes to renounce his own Nephew, and give himself and the Popedome, into the hands of a Woman, heretofore—and now grown ambitious and covetous.

Catholicks and Hereticks together were astonish’d, and did murmure to see, that he who called himself the head of the Church, should be subject to the appetite of a woman; and that to her ambitious desires, he should be content to sacrifice his own Nephew, and deprive himself of that help and succour, which according to the example of his predecessors, he might have expected from him.

If there were any Offices vacant, or places empty in the Court, nothing was to be determin’d about them, without the advice of _Donna Olympia_; nay, if there were Benefices to be conferr’d, the Officers of the _Datary_ or _Chancery_ durst not expediate the Bulls for them, having receiv’d an express order from his holiness, to suspend the expedition of all business, ’till his sister in Law was instructed of it, and gave her consent. If any Bishopricks were to be provided with able Pastors; all the competitors made it their business to Court her; and that which was worst, was, that they ordinarily carried it, who offered most money, and not they that had greatest deserts; though it were true, That the more the person was unfit, the more was he fain to give to be admitted.

But this Womans pride, carried her to that point of insolence, that not thinking it enough to have had a Cardinals Cap for one of her young Nephews, altogether unworthy of so high a Dignity, but pretended besides, that in all promotions, her voyce and consent should be expected, and followed: From hence proceeded that the Courtiers, seeing her exercise this power, either, out of fear, or hope, did frequent her Palace, and daily go to wait upon her, not daring to put any end to business already begun, or begin any other, before they had acquainted her with every particularity of it.

_Cardinal Panzirolo_ himself, Secretary of State to _Innocentius_, and oppressed with multitude of affairs, and the indisposition of his body, was not free from this base Courtship; but that he might humour his master, who was infinitely pleased to see _Donna Olympia_ obeyed, was fain to go in person very often to wait upon her, and give her an account of all the secret negotiations of the Court, and of every thing that passed through his hands: after which she would from time to time, go to the _Vatican_, followed with a numerous company of Coaches, and her hands full of Papers, which she had already drawn up, as she would have them pass, and there stay whole houres with the Pope, in discussing, and ripening other business that was next to fall in order.

The wits of the Court seeing this, could not forbear so good a subject for _Pasquins_, but made them with all sharpness, yet as secretly as they could, they being well inform’d of the danger, oft exposing the defects of those that Rule: and though every body were mov’d with indignation to see the Pope so much mistake himself, as to preferre the company of a Woman to that of his Nephew, and the Princess of _Rossana_ his Wife, the only prop of the Family of _Pomphilio_; yet _Innocent_ was so prepossessed against them, that he would not hear of his Nephewes submissions and excuses.

These murmurs and satyrical Discourses were all this while, either concealed from the Pope, or at least dissembled by him; as being unresolved of the means that should bridle so many tongues, and stop the mouthes of all Christendome; particularly, of the Protestants, who made very good sport with this female Government, not only laughing at the Pope, who by the assistance of the holy Ghost could not discern that which was the ruin of his reputation and family, but also by immodest representations, and contumehous pictures, giving the world to understand, that they were fully informed of the disorders of the Church of _Rome_.

But at last the Pope, not being able to endure any longer the secret reproofs, and publick affronts which he received from Embassadours, and Princes themselves, as well as from the greatest part of the Cardinals; resolv’d to dismiss from the Court this ambitious sister in Law, whose unbridled licence he had hitherto countenanced, and to take away from her all sort of command and power.

Thus _Donna Olympia_ being banished from Court, and the _Vatican_ purged of her corruptions, the Pope bethought himself of introducing a Nipotismo, that the Church might not loose its prescription.

But before we begin to discourse of the particularities of this new Nipotismo, it will not be amiss to give an account of all the Popes kindred & relations, and begin with his nearest. He had one Nephew, and two Neeces, besides a sister, of whom we shall say but little as, well because she led a Nuns life in a Convent, as, because that _Donna Olympia_, out of a natural jealousie between Women, took care to keep her from receiving any kindnesses or favours from the Pope.

* * * * *

The Prince _Camillo Pamphilio_, though after three years banishment, he were at last recall’d to _Rome_ with his Lady, was nevertheless in so ill a predicament with his Uncle, who never was able to forget those tales which _Donna Olympia_ had continually entertained him with, to his Nephews disadvantage, that he was in _Rome_, as if he had been at the _Indies_, never coming neer the Pope or Court, at which he was not much troubled, as one who cared not to be concern’d in business, and thought himself happy enough in all private enjoyment of so lovely a Lady as his was.

Of the two sisters, the Popes Neeces, the eldest was married to _D. Andrea Giustiniani_, who himself was a great favourite of fortune: For the Marquess _Giustiniani_, a person of great quality and estate, seeing himself without any heirs of his family and name, cast his Eyes by chance upon this Gentleman who was then very poor and low, and though, as it afterwards proved, he was of the same branch of the _Giustiniani_ with the Marquess; yet it was at such a distance, that neither of them did believe themselves at all a-kin; he was then thus fortunately instituted Heir to a very great estate, by which means the way to _Grandeur_ being made easie to him, he found no difficulty in obtaining in marriage the neece of Cardinal _Pamphilio_, who being immediatly after chosen Pope, the Prince _Giustiniani_ saw himself of a sudden become a part of the _Roman_ Nipotismo, enjoying those honours and prerogatives which the _Romans_ do use to observe towards persons of that quality.

But the Pope had no real kindness for him, and having given him some profitable offices, refused to introduce him into the management of business, but left him to play the good husband in his own estate. And indeed employments of another nature had been lost upon him, for besides that he had alwayes retain’d something of his meanness when he was poor; there was nothing laudable in him but a natural bounty; and the Pope being well inform’d, did abstain from using his service in any thing of importance.

The other sister was married to _Don Nicolo Ludovisio_, Prince of _Piombino_, Nephew of _Gregory_ the fifteenth, and brother to that Cardinal _Ludovisio_, who in _Gregory’s_ time govern’d all things. This prince had enclin’d to this match, out of an opinion of making great advantages by it, as seeing at that time that Cardinal _Camillo_ was made Cardinal, and altogether unfit for business, so that he flattered himself with an opinion of being the only Nephew, and governing the Pope and Church.

But when it came to the push, he found he had misreckoned; for _Donna Olympia_, his mother in law, disappointed all his ambition by hers, not being dispos’d to suffer that any body should rule but her self: So that the Prince was reduced to a meer complacence and obedience to her commands. Neither was it to any purpose that sometimes he would complain of the difficulties he found to be admitted to the Popes audience, and receive those marks of kindness which seem’d due to so neer a relation, for _Donna Olympia_ answer’d him in a haughty manner, That _it was honors enough for him that he had been preferr’d to marry her Daughter before so many competitors of as great a quality as himself_. Whereupon the Prince being unwilling to come to a rupture with one who had so great an influence upon the Pope, would hold his tongue and be quiet.

Yet from time to time he was forced amongst his private friends, to give a vent to his grief by telling them, That the Popes Alliance had brought him into the disgrace of the _French_; whereupon his principality of _Piombino_ was by them made a Theater of their fury, for not being able to do the Pope mischeif openly, as they would have wished, they did content their spight in ruining a place belonging to so neer a relation as he was to the Pope. So that the loss and dammage he receiv’d, by being thus allyed was certain; whereas the advantages were uncertain and inconsiderable, consisting only in some incomes from his place of General of the Galleys, and some such offices which he little esteemed.

But when _Donna Olympia_ fell once from that heighth of favour, then this Prince being very sure, that the Pope could not subsist without some body to help him in so great a charge; and knowing himself to be in as neer a degree as any body, and as fit for the employment, began to conceive hopes of being called to Court, and admitted to the management of business. And here again, The poor Prince was deceived; for _Innocent_ had all along conceived such an ill opinion, and received from _Donna Olympia_ such disadvantagious impressions of him, that he would never see him, but when he had a mind to be merry, making the Prince serve as a Buffoon to his diversion, and never so much as mentioning any serious matter in his presence.

For all this the Popes relations were fully perswaded, That the Pope must of necessity bestow the Title of Nephew upon some body; and seeing that among his kindred none would please him, they went insinuating sometimes one, sometimes another into the Popes affections. Innocent of his side was in perpetual conferences with Cardinal _Pantiallo_ about the same business, so that every hour of the day they were examining the good qualities of one or other to choose the most deserving.

In this scarcity of subjects fit for the employment, the Prince _Ludovisio_ thought, that the honour might fall upon the person of Cardinal _Albergati_, who went by the name of _Ludovisio_, but he soon found an exclusion in the Popes mind, as being ignorant and uncapable of such a place.

The Jesuite _Fabio Albergati_, brother to the said Cardinal, was the fitter man, as being endowed with learning, experience, and great wisdome in the managing of business; but the Pope declar’d, That he would not make two brothers of the same family Cardinals.

So that at last, of all those that had been brought upon the Stage, there remained none but he that Cardinal _Panzirolo_ brought on, who was a prodigious off-spring of fortune, and the wonder of Christendome, which was astonish’d to see a Pope so averse from his relations as to declare a supposed Nephew for Cardinal, and Padrone: but before we engage in the particularities of this singular event, we will say something to instruct the Reader about it.

There never was acted upon the Theater of the Court of _Rome_ so unexpected and strange a Scene, which therefore deserves to be reckoned amongst the prodigious effects of Fortune; for the Pope having no consanguinity with him, and he being without deserts, experience, or any remarkable quality that might make him conspicuous, nay, being scarce known, or at least not familiarly to the Pope; he was nevertheless of a sudden exalted and promoted to the degree of Cardinal, Nephew, and Padrone, as if he had been the head of the _Pamphilian_ Family: And to deserve all this, there was no quality but that, being born of a Noble Family, which nevertheless at that time was so far indebted and decayed, that he was not to expect any assistance in his fortune from them.

His name, not to hold the _Lector_ any longer in suspense, was _Camillo Astalli_, a young Gentleman of about seven and twenty years old, of a comely aspect, and a handsome winning carriage, though guilty sometimes of too many complements, and in a word accomplish’d, as they ordinarily are, whose highest ambition carries them no further in _Rome_ then some Office or Prelature.

And that which most surprized the Court, was to see one exalted thus, under pretence of serving and helping the Pope in the administration of State Affairs; one who was an absolute novice to all negotiations and policy, by reason of the few occasions he had had to learn any thing of that nature.

But the occasion of his coming to court and making himself known, was, the alliance which the Marquess his brother had contracted with a Neece of _Donna Olympia’s_, for she being ambitious had alwayes embrac’d the occasions of marrying her relations into noble families, as having a design to honour, by such props, her own family of _Maldachini_, to whom that flower of nobility was denyed, which was an affliction to a Popes sister in Law, and a sister in Law that govern’d with an absolute authority.

As it fell out, it was very fortunate for the house of _Astalli_, that they were allyed with her; because that they wanted riches to maintain their gentility the more, since they had at the invitation of _Donna Olympia_ bought the place of Clerk of the Apostolick chamber, which office had absorb’d the greatest part of their Patrimony; so that, if by chance the possessor of it did fail to make a fortune, or did dye suddenly, the whole family did run the hazard of being begger’d for ever.

But all fell out luckily; for _Astalli_, having by meanes of his office and alliance got an entrance into the Court, addicted himself particularly to worship and court Cardinal _Panzirollo_, the Secretary of State, who had a great Empire over the Pope; and that which was most fortunate, was, that this Cardinal answer’d the young mans affection with the like on his side, being gained by his obsequious carriage; at which all the Court was much surprized, considering that Cardinal _Panzirollo_ had alwayes discovered an inveterate hatred against any one that was in favour with _Innocent_.

Here the contrary fell out, for _Panzirollo_ made it his task, to insinuate this young Gentleman into the Popes affections, which at last he did so far, that the Pope was infinitely pleased with his comely garb and handsome carriage; and when it came to be debated, whom he should choose to ease him of a part of those cares and fatigues which accompany the Popedom, seeing none of his own Relations qualified for the Employment, he followed Panzirollo’s directions, and preferr’d this young man before all the other pretendants; so without any more to do, he was created Cardinal, declared Nephew, proclaim’d _Padrone_, and had the name of _Pamphilio_ given him, together with the key of the Popes Closet, to go out and in when he pleased.

As soon as this news was spread through _Rome_, the Politicians following the humor of the Town, began to discourse of what would follow, and endeavoured to penetrate the secret causes of the Popes aversion to his Kindred, that should move him thus to set up a counterfeit Nephew: In the mean time, the true _Nipotismo_ were all met in _Donna Olympia’s_ house, there to condole with one another, upon this affront and shame which had befallen them.

_Donna Olympia_, who above all was enraged at this so strange a mutation of government, and who doubted not, as it was true, but that Cardinal _Panzirollo_ was the Author of it, went to him, and shewed her resentment in menaces and threats, with all the passion a woman was capable of. The Cardinal being satisfied, that he had obtained his desire, was not much moved at her reproaches, and those of her kindred, but answering her with his ordinary gravity and flegm, told her, _That things did not_, _as she might think_, _depend upon his councels_, _but upon the Popes inclinations_, _who lov’d to do what he pleased_, _and nothing else_.

All this while _Rome_ was in a perpetual vicissitude of tears and joy; of joy, to hear the new counterfeit _Nipotismo’s_ transports; of grief and sorrow, to hear the complaints of the old and real _Nipotismo_.

Ambassadours came laughing and merry from one Visit, to go sad and full of tears to another. The Priests, adherents to the old _Nipotismo_, said Mass, and implored patience from Heaven for them in their sufferings; and the flatterers of the new, offered thanksgivings, and prayed for help from Heaven for the continuation of its power: while the new and false _Nipotismo_ went triumphant through _Rome_, and received the respects of every one, the true and real one was fain to sculk and lye close in the shadow of its afflictions and disgrace.

The Railleries, the Pasquins, and the Discourses about this new way of enriching the Church with a _Nipotismo_, were infinite, there being no body that could imagine, from what Wits could spring so many different Conceits, bad and good, as were publish’d upon this new subject.

The Cardinal _Sforza_, who had alwayes assum’d to himself the liberty of saying any thing; as soon as he heard the news of this resolution of the Popes, was the first that began to make _Pasquins_, for the next day, in presence of four of the chiefest Cardinals of the Colledge, he said these very words, _Now that the Pope_ Innocent _hath introduced the custome of making false Nephews_, _the other Popes will never fail of Nephews_, _for they will make whole Regiments of them_, _and fill with such a generation our Colledge of Cardinals_.

But the words of a certain Prelate of _Parma_ were more sharp and biting, which were these, _I foresee_, said he, _that one day the Popes will throw Dice for their_ Nipotismo, _and take what comes uppermost_, _and so the affairs of the Church will be managed at an adventure_.

Yet for all this, the new Nephew had all the interest of the Church and State put into his hands, though with some limitation, for the Pope communicated all things to him, and particularly matters of State; not so much to lay the weight of them upon him, as to instruct him how he should mannage them, for he durst not yet trust to his small experience, for fear of being deceiv’d. Thus _Astalli_ had properly nothing but the name and honour of Cardinal _Padrone_, subscribing to all the Nuntioes, Legates and Governours Commissions, and receiving Embassadours, when the Pope was indisposed, though still with the obligation of reporting every thing to his Holiness.

As long as Cardinal _Panzirollo_ liv’d, _Astalli’s_ fortune was prosperous and good, because that the Popes kindred durst not by any means go about to supplant him, though they hated him perfectly, knowing that the Cardinals perswasions would still prevail with their Uncle more then their credit; whereupon they dissembled their design, and, according to the custom of _Rome_, seem’d to rejoyce for that thing which they most abhorr’d.

But no sooner had Cardinal _Panzirollo_ yeilded up his last breath, but _Astalli_ began to perceive the decay of his fortune, and to mistrust that which afterwards befell him; for no sooner had this Cardinal shut his eyes, but the Popes kindred went about to undo him, and easily compass’d their intention, the Pope beginning to revive that affection, which he had formerly born to his Sister in law. One morning then, as the Cardinal _Padrone_ was rising out of his bed, he receiv’d a Message from the Pope, whereof the bearer told him, _That by his Holinesses Order he was banished from_ Rome, _and forbidden the Popes presence for ever_; _that he should lay aside the title of Cardinal_ Padrone, _and renounce the name of Nephew as well as that of_ Pamphilio. And in a word, not only all his Revenue was seised on, but he could not get leave to transport any thing of his houshold-stuffe or moveables. So that the poor Cardinal was fain to forsake _Rome_, seeing that all _wayes_ to justifie himself were shut up, and all the favour he could obtain was, that he might depart in the night, to avoid the derision and mocking of the people.

The motive of this so severe a sentence, with which _Astalli_ was treated, as if he had been guilty of high Treason, was this; The _Barbarines_ having been recall’d and reconcil’d to the Pope, were now great with him, and at their perswasion, _Innocent_ had begun to think of taking the Kingdom of _Naples_ from the _Spaniard_; upon which subject there were often Conferences held between him, the _Barbarines_, and his Kindred, excluding still from their Counsels the Cardinal _Astalli_; who thereby perceiving, that the Popes Kindness for him did begin to abate, thought it would be prudently done, to provide in time some other protection, that so his fall might be less, and he might have something to hang by, which might hinder him from falling to the bottom of that precipice, which was digging for him.

Having therefore penetrated into these secret designs of the Pope, he gave the _Spaniards_ notice of them closely, and the advice came no sooner to the Catholick Kings ears, but he immediately gave such Orders in the Kingdom of _Naples_, as quite disappointed the _Barbarines_ plot, by shutting that door, which was to give an entrance to the execution of their design.

_Azzolini_, a Confident and Spy of _Donna Olympia’s_, took upon him to discover who it was that had betrayed them, and after an exact search found, that it could be no body but _Astalli_; whereupon the Pope banish’d him, and made _Azzolini_ Cardinal for his recompence.

This sudden fall of the false Nephew opened all the mouthes in _Rome_, who did not know of the reason of it, to exclaim against the Popes inconstancy: but no sooner was the _Nipotismo_ down, but that _Donna Olympia_ raised her self upon its ruines; for the Pope a weary of being alone, call’d his Sister in Law once more to him, and gave her back again all her former power, and more, if more could be, the true _Nipotismo_ remaining neglected, and despised in all these changes; for except some Offices and Places which they got, they were little more advanced in the Popes favour; and in those places, they had, it is true, a liberty of getting money by all Arts, but still with the condition of dependance upon _Donna Olympia_.

The avidity of the _Barbarines_ was but a shadow of what this Lady perform’d in reallity; for under her government, Cardinalships, Bishopricks, Abbies, Canonicates, and generally, all Church revenues were sold, as in a Market, to him that bid most: She little cared how full the Town was of murmurs, if her purse were full of Gold; and that which was most intollerable was, that not only the meritorious and deserving people were neglected, but banished from _Rome_.

There was no more talk then of the Pope, all the discourse was of _Donna Olympia_, many taking occasion to say, _That it were fit likewise to introduce the women to the administration of the Sacrament_, _since that_ Donna Olympia _was Pope_.

At last it pleased Almighty God to deliver the Church from so great a scandal, and so unheard of one before this age, which gave so fair an occasion to the Hereticks of inveighing against the Church of _Rome_, with a great deal of reason.

_Innocent_ dyed in the year 1655. having reigned ten years, four months, and some dayes; so that then the Sister in law, and the _Nipotismo_, were fain to leave the _Vatican_ to the Pope that should be chosen, who was _Alexander_ the seventh, who now lives and rules the Church.

The Cardinals thought of little less then of making _Alexander Pope_, who went by the name of _Fabio Chigi_ of _Siena_, not that he was destitute of those qualities which make a Cardinal worthy of that Elevation, but because that he was newly made Cardinal, and too young to be a Competitour for such a place; with all this, after three moneths time employed in the Conclave, he was at last chosen, when he thought least of it.

As soon as the news was spread in the Town, people began to discourse about the new _Nipotismo_, which was to govern the City, the State, and the Church; and there many began to reckon up such a number of kindred, that they affirm’d, there would not be room for them in _Rome_ it self, much less was the Popedom sufficient to enrich such a company of hungry Relations, and raise a family, which, though of antient Nobility, was nevertheless very poor.

The ambitious, and those that desir’d to be in favour with these new Masters, rid post to _Siena_, not only to carry this happy news, but also to have the priviledge of offering their service first.

_Don Mario_, the Popes brother, as soon as he heard of his exaltation, immediately, without so much as putting on new clothes, as his Wife would have had him, caused a Horse to be sadled, and with two servants took his journey towards _Rome_; having first receiv’d from one and the other a number of submissive complements, not without the title of Excellence.

He was thus going on, and making Castles in the Air; insomuch that he did scarce see those that came to meet him on his way, seeming a man in an extasie, and a body without a soul, which without doubt was gone before to take possession of his future greatness; when at some miles distance from _Siena_, he met a Gentleman, from the Pope, with Letters to him, in which his Holiness did most strictly command, that neither he, nor any of his Relations should stir from _Siena_ to go towards _Rome_, under pain of incurring their brothers indignation for ever.

At this news, the poor _Don Mario_ was as if he had been thunder-struck; so that if at first he seemed a body without a soul, it was almost true now, for all his blood retired to his heart, and left him pale, like a Ghost, though otherwise corpulent enough; he was in doubt whether he should infringe these so severe commands, and continue on his way, or else obey and go home again; the first seemed dangerous, the second shameful; but at last, after some reluctancy within himself, he resolv’d to return by night to _Siena_, being asham’d to enter the City by day.

Being come home he communicated his Letter to all the kindred; and though it seemed a very severe one to them, yet had they some little glimpse of hope in the ambiguous sense of these words, _Do not stir from_ Siena, _in no wise_, _till you receive a new Order from us_: from this they took occasion, not to despair of their fortune, guessing, that this proceeding was not a defect of kindness in the Pope, but some new politick trick.

* * * * *

The Great Duke of _Florence_, in the mean time, forgot not to send a Gentleman to visit _Don Mario_, and to present him with such things, as he thought they might need in that occasion; and by his example, many Cardinals and Princes did the same thing; particularly, all the persons of quality of _Tuscany_ failed not, every one of them, to wait upon the family of the _Chigi_. ’Tis true, that the Popes Order carried, _that they should not change their way of living_, _nor receive visits as his Relations_; but that was too hard to be executed, since it was not in their power, to hinder those that had a mind to it, from doing them that honour.

* * * * *

The Republick of _Venice_, whose maxime it is to keep the Popes for friends (though they often have been so ungrateful, and so little sensible of the service that this State does to the Church and all _Christendom_, as to trouble its quiet) having receiv’d the news of the election, assembled the Senate, to deliberate of the demonstrations of joy, which they should shew to the Pope.

There it was resolved unanimously, _That the House of_ Chigi _should be declared Noble of_ Venice, _with all the Prerogatives that the Senate uses to bestow on such occasions_; which was done accordingly, and the Letters Patent were sent to the Pope and his kindred in _Siena_, with the usual formes, being followed immediately after by a solemn and stately Embassie.

Thus the Popes kindred did receive continually great honour in _Siena_, though it were some mortification to them, to see themselves depriv’d of that command and authority, which they thought did belong to them, _de jure_, as being a Popes Relations.

In the mean time, this neglect and denial, which the Pope seem’d to make of his dearest Kindred, got him such a reputation through the world, that nothing was more discoursed of, then of his holiness and purity of life; the vulgar did expect no less then miracles from him; and hearing say, that he had alwayes upon his table a dead mans Scull, and under his bed his Coffin, they could not choose, but be confirmed in the opinion of his holiness.

But the wiser sort, and the judicious, were not so easily deceiv’d; but reckoning, that it was either policy, or a particular melancholy, which had flown into the Popes head, but had not root in his heart, they alwayes said, _Let us see what the end will be_.

And indeed, after some time it was observed, that the Pope did as the Traveller, who being in a small vessel, which was surpriz’d by a terrible storm at Sea, resolv’d, that he might save his life, to throw all that he had into the Sea, having then tyed his baggage with a rope, he threw it over board, but still kept in his hand, the end of the rope to which his baggage was tyed. Just thus did _Alexander_, for though it seemed to the eyes of the vulgar, that he had despised and thrown over board his Kindred, yet from time to time he would hold out his hand, and send them money, and all other things that were necessary, there passing never a day, but they had news from him, and he from them.

And once particularly (and this is a thing which I am an eye witness of; neither do I think, that _Don Mario_ himself can deny it, if he will be sincere) the Pope feigning to send them some Mules, loaden with Wax for certain Churches, sent them indeed Mules loaden with money; which cheat was so great, that the Muletiers themselves perceiv’d it, complaining of the extraordinary heaviness of their burdens; and indeed, what should they have done with so much Wax, for there would have been enough, if it had been really Wax, to have lighted the _French_ Court a whole year.

Another time, he took an occasion of sending some Silver vessels, and some Silk stuffs, to be employed in Ornaments for Churches, with order, that they should be recommended to _Don Mario_, to dispose of them according to the Popes intention; but _Don Mario_, in opening the boxes, found above four Purses full of Gold, Gold all newly coin’d, with the Stamp of the Popes-head upon them.