Chapter V: Part 5

The Embassadours of Princes, and the Cardinals, having perceiv’d, that all this apparent aversion to his Kindred, was but jugling and hypocrisie, made it their business, to induce him by prayers and entreaties to change his resolution; particularly, having observ’d, that the Popes design was, to be thus urged and pressed, that he might gain reputation in the world, and be furnished with an excuse, whensoever, at their request, he should introduce his banished Relations. And indeed, they had gain’d so much upon him, that he did begin to hearken to their reasons with a milder countenance, and less reluctancy: Yet there was one thing which hindred him from coming to the execution of this his design, which was the Oath he had taken before the Crucifix in the beginning of his Popedom, not to receive his Kindred in _Rome_; but the Jesuites, who were his Confessors, and who are as subtle Philosophers as learned Casuists, found out an evasion, which much pleased his Holiness; for it gave him leave to comfort his kindred, to yield to the Prayers and Sollicitations of Princes, and to ease himself of a part of the weight and cares of government.

They told him then, that indeed it would have been a breach of his Oath, to receive his kind in _Rome_; but that he might, with a safe conscience, go and meet them half a dayes journey of _Rome_, and so not at all endanger his soul: was much liked, and put in execution by the _Pope_, though it seemed to the Court a ridiculous evasion, which became the subject of their laughter and drollery for a great while.

The Pope being then at last resolved, Orders were dispatch’d to _Siena_ to the _Nipotismo_, which was there assembled, in expectation of this news as if they had waited for Manna from Heaven. So _Don Mario_, his Wife and Children, and _Don Agostino_, with a numerous attendance, left _Siena_ and took their journey towards _Calstel Gandelfe_, a House of pleasure of the Popes, where they met his Holiness, who receiv’d them, and embraced them with the greatest demonstrations affection and kindness that was possible; and after some short stay there, came back to _Rome_ with them in triumph.

* * * * *

In the interim, it is worth the Readers curiosity, to be inform’d of an accident that befell _Padre Pallavicino_, the Popes Confessor, a Jesuite, in hopes of obtaining a Cardinal Cap, which at last he got, had undertaken to write the Story of the Councel of _Trent_; which indeed may justly be call’d his, for the greatest part of it is not history and relation, but an abundance of words, which he endeavours to prove, that the history of _Fra. Paulo_, upon the same subject, was and is false, but he stumbles at every step he goes, and is so ill furnish’d with Arguments, that for my part I must confess, that I never believ’d _Fra. Paulo’s_ History to be real, sincere and true, but since I read the Jesuites: and he that will profit by them let him read them both with an equal disinteressment.

Now in this History, Father _Palavicino_ had taken occasion to praise the Pope _Alexander_ in divers places, and extoll him to the Skyes, as an Angel rather then a man, for denying his own blood and relations, and keeping them at such a distance from him.

The sheets were printed, and the book was coming out, when the Pope went to receive his kindred at Castle Gandolfe, and had brought them to _Rome_: This cast the Father into a strange perplexity; and the rather, because that the Pope, before he undertook his journey, had asked him his advice about the business as being his Confessour; seeing himself in a strange Labyrinth, he was mightily confounded; for if he councelled him to receive them, that was to give his book the lye; and if he exhorted him to continue in his first resolution, that was the way to offend the Pope and his Kindred, and lose all his own fortune.

At last he resolved:

Which he did, by counselling the Pope to receive his kindred, and by printing over again those sheets which made mention of the Popes alienation from all humane affections. But the Printer refused to do it at his expences; so that the good Father was fain to have recourse to some of his devout Children, who out of charity payed for the reprinting of about twenty sheets.

* * * * *

No sooner had this new _Nipotismo_ taken possession of the _Vatican_, but the people began to murmur against the Pope, making Pasquins, and setting them up in every street. Thus he, who before was a Saint and an Angel, was now become an Hypocrite and a Devil; and the belief of the _Romans_, concerning the Popes infallibility, was much changed, from that which they had receiv’d before from the Divines; for now they believ’d at least, that if the Pope could not erre by himself, yet his Nephews could make him erre: The Pope, who was before ador’d by the common people, became now contemptible, insomuch, that going one day to consecrate the Church of the _Peace_, which had been rebuilt by him he receiv’d a vile affront; for the Curate of that Church, having rais’d a triumphal Arch before it, over which was the Popes Picture, with this Inscription, _Orietur in diebus nistris justitia & abundantia pacis_, some bold persons had the conscience to put an _M_ before _orietur_, and change the _C_ of _pacis_ into an _N_; so that then there was, _Monrictur __in diebus nostris justitia & abundantia ranis_. In the Academy of the Wits, they did recite and show Epigrams, which were very offensive to the Popes and his Families reputation, though all were allegorically veil’d over: In a word, they were counted the most ingenious, who could invent the sharpest sayings upon the introduction of the _Nipotismo_.

But before we go any further, it will not be amiss, to see in what persons, and how qualified, the _Nipotismo_ did consist: And I consider it in two wayes, that which is nearest in consanguinity, and another, which is related at a greater distance, and we will omit the women, that we may not be mistaken by so great a number as there would be with them.

Six Males from that _Nipotismo_, which is of a very near consanguinity to the Pope, that is, speaking of those that have at this present part in the government of _Rome_, and omitting the little children.

These are then first, _Don Mario_, the Popes eldest brother; the Cardinal _Flavio Chigi_, who is, _Don Mario’s_ Son; _Don Agostino_, and _Don Sigismond_, who are Brothers, and Sons of another of the Popes Brothers, who dyed before _Alexander’s_ exaltation to the Popedom; and two other Brothers, who are Sons to one of the Popes Sisters that was married in the family of the _Bichi_; so that in all, there are one Brother, and five Nephews, which make a pretty compleat _Nipotismo_.

_Don Mario_ is five years older then the Pope, and though by consequence he be threescore and ten, yet he is strong and lusty. The Pope and he are very different in their constitution, humour, and actions; for the first is tall, the other low; the Pope is inclin’d to learning, _Don Mario_ is strangely ignorant; the Pope is lean, and _Don Mario_ is fat; the Pope is noble and generous, and _Don Mario_ is covetous and miserable, thinking of nothing, but of gathering and heaping together of money, little troubling himself at the peoples murmurings; and yet they cry out more against him, then ever they did against _Don Tadeo_, nay, more then they did against _Donna Olympia_ her self; he hath invented so many new subtleties to get money out of those Offices which are ordinarily bestowed upon the Popes nearest Relations, that the _Barbarines_, who thought themselves masters in that Craft, do remain astonish’d to see themselves outdone by a new beginner.

The Pope shewes him the respect due to an elder Brother, and that is all; ’tis true, that of late he hath afforded him more liberty, and a greater share in the Government then he was wont to have, and he uses it to his advantage, missing no occasion to improve his fortune; nay, he is so passionately bent to getting, that he ordinarily uses to say of a thing he does not like, _There is nothing to be got there_.

The good opinion which the Pope hath of his integrity, is the poison which corrupts all the present Government; for being prepossess’d to his advantage, he lets him do any thing, so he do but maintain plenty of Corn and Meat in _Rome_, and keep the people from murmuring; but things do not go well, nor with any honour to the Pope, for if _Don Mario_ was honest and sincere in _Siena_, he no sooner came to _Rome_, but he chang’d his nature, and made it his business to grow rich by any means whatsoever; though the people send their cryes up to Heaven against him, they come not to the Popes eares, who all this while thinks, that _Don Mario_ of _Rome_ is _Don Mario_ of _Siena_, and there’s the mischeif.

The Cardinal _Flavio Chigi_ his Son deserves neither to be praised, nor blamed for any thing that regards the Government of the Church, in which he is little concern’d; for having the Title of _Padrone_, or _Master_, he exercises his mastership in taking his pleasure, avoiding with all possible means to have any hand in business, least he should perplex his mind, and be diverted from the taste of sensual delights, to which he hath given himself up.

In his Uncles last fit of sickness, that he might not be liable to the imputation of ignorance or incapacity, he bestirr’d himself pretty well, and perform’d the duties belonging to so important a place as his is. His assiduity and care appeared much, and the Embassadours, and people of business were pretty well satisfyed with the goodwill he shewed, being the apter to bear with the smallness of his sufficiency.

But as soon as his Uncle was upon his feet again, the Nephew began to withdraw his neck from the yoke, and not only gave over giving of audience, but feigned himself sick, that no body might trouble him. ’Tis true, that he was really so sometimes out of debauchery, and is forced to keep his bed in good earnest. The Physicians then do never acquaint the Pope with the true cause of his indisposition, though often question’d upon it, because they are afraid of irritating him against his Nephew; who on his side gives them large presents to oblige them to secresie.

He doth not much care to gather riches and treasure, for three reasons. The first is, because his Father is already too much enclin’d that way. The second, because he hath no desire to leave any thing to his Cozen _Don Agostino_. And the third, because he hath no Nephewes to provide for, that branch of his family ending in him. So that he is content with the revenue of his place, which is above 200000 Crowns a year, which he spends nobly amongst his Comerades and Mistresses; it being a common report, that he hath already half a dozen Bastards by divers Courtisans; but for my part I believe they belie him, and lay their children to his charge, as being the ablest to keep them. He would without doubt enjoy his health better then he does if he were temperate, for he is not above five and thirty years old, of a Sanguine temper, with a good mixture of Melancholy, the colour of his beard and haire being the same with his Uncles.

In his Legation in _France_ he got reputation, shewing himself noble and splendid, as also liberal on divers occasions; and certainly he would have been prodigal in his presents, if those Prelates that were with him had not counsel’d him to the contrary; so that he indeed lived after the _French_ fashion, but his dependants after the _Italian_, that is, sparingly.

_Don Agostino_, Son to _Augusto Chigi_, and _Don Sigismond_, his Brother, are much in the Popes favour, and he hath for him much more real love, then for _Don Mario_, or the Cardinal _Flavio_ his Son.

Of _Don Sigismond_ there is little to be said, only that the Pope doth every day bestow upon him some considerable benefice, waiting only till he be of age to make him Cardinal, being now in the year 1667 but 17 years old, which keeps the Pope from admitting him to that honour, though it is thought, that in the first promotion he will not fail to be created Cardinal, and indeed with great deal more reason then Cardinal _Maldachini_ who was promoted for _Donna Olympia’s_ sake, at 18 years old, though much more unworthy of it then _Don Sigismondo_. ’Tis thought, that if the Pope should dye before he were made Cardinal, his inclinations would rather encline him to marriage then to a Batchelors life. But I am not of that opinion, for _Don Agostino_ his Brother hath prevented him in that, by giving, and procuring for him no other but Church Revenues; as Abbyes, and other Benefices, of which, if he should go to marry, he must be devested, and then he would be so poor that he would not meet with a match suitable to his quality.

As for _Don Agostino_, Fortune seems to have espoused his interest; for from his first coming to _Rome_ till this present time, all things have succeeded very Prosperously, and much to his satisfaction, having met with a match according to his desire, and a principality, which was his hearts wish; so he hath nothing left to long for.

This abundance of content hath so taken possession of his Soul, that it hath quite blotted out the remembrance of his former poor condition, insomuch that being puff’d up with pride and insolence, he scornes to take notice of the civilities that the Gentlemen of _Rome_ offer him when he goes through the streets; whereupon he hath contracted the Names of haughty and arrogant, and with them the hatred of almost all the _Romans_.

He never had any inclination to learning; but he hath a good natural disposition for all those exercises which become a Gentleman, and in which he behaves himself very handsomly; he is about 30 years of Age, of a jovial disposition, loving company and mirth, and little troubling himself to purchase riches and treasure, being sure that there are enough to do it for him.

And indeed _Don Mario_, and the rest of the kindred, think of getting what they can every one for themselves; but the Pope takes no care, but for _Don Agostino_, whose purse he has resolv’d to fill as full as he can; and we may conjecture of the Popes tender affection for _Don Agostino_ by three things which he hath done for him since his coming to _Rome_.

The first was, that the Nipotismo had no sooner taken possession of the Vatican, but it pretended to give Lawes, not only to _Rome_, but to the Pope himself, and that in the dispensation of his favours to: and thus it was.

_Don Mario_, the Popes elder brother, being the head of the Family, did pretend, that one being to marry to preserve the Family, it did belong to his Son _Flavio_, and the rather, because his inclination did lead him that way; but the Pope, who had a great affection for the memory of his brother _Augusto_, refused to condescend to _Don Mario’s_ desire, but declared _Flavio_ Cardinal Padrone, and resolved to marry _Don Agostino_, little troubling himself at his elder brothers grumbling.

From hence sprung some dissention, which from day to day encreases between the family of _Don Agostino_, and that of _Don Mario_, to the Popes great discontent, who to sweeten a little the bitterness of this Pill, gave _Don Mario_ leave to call his Daughters, and their husbands to _Rome_; where he desir’d they should be respected as his Relations, and he accorded to _Don Agostino_, that his brother _Sigismond_ might also be sent for, to whom he gave good Church Revenues. This seem’d to have pleased them all, and exteriourly they shewed content and satisfaction, but secretly, and in their hearts, they do like right _Italians_, that is, preserve the memory of their injuries, and a desire to be reveng’d. And to begin; The Cardinal _Flavio_ little cares to get riches; and if he do get, he spends it most prodigally, being resolved to leave _Don Agostino_ as little as he can.

This dissipation which the Cardinal makes of his revenue, cannot choose but displease _Don Agostino_, seeing that it is not so much the Cardinals inclinations, as a desire to offend him that causes this prodigality; whereupon he infers likewise, that that vast heap of treasure which _Don Mario_ hath got together, will not be for him, but for his Daughters, who are married into others Families; and I believe in this he is not mistaken, for _Don Mario’s_ affection to his Daughters is very great.

The Pope in the mean time can scarce show any kindness to any one of them; but it is presently taken ill by the others. _Doth my Cozen_, sayes _Don Agostino_, _think it so inconsiderable a thing to be Cardinal_ Padrone, _and mannage all State affairs_, _to have the disposal of all favours at Court_, _to treat with Embassadours_, _to have the keyes of the Popes Closet_, _to govern the Chancery and Secretary at his pleasure_? _What can he desire more then to be a second Pope_!

But the Cardinal answers all this by saying, that the care of business, and the Title of _Padrone_ are not things given him out of a design to honour him, for they are his perpetual torment, and keep him from rest in the day time, and sleep in the night. _But doth my Cozen_, sayes the Cardinal, _think it little to have been made Prince of a Principality hereditary to his Family_, _to have married a lovely Princess_, _with the enjoyment of all pleasures_, _the applause of the Court_, _and the liberty of living as he pleases_? _are these things to be compared to the weight of a Cardinals employment_, _in whose death all dyes with him_, _and hath not the satisfaction to see himself re-produced in this world_?

In these duels of competition is the present Nipotismo perpetually engaged; depriving themselves of the enjoyment of that happiness which their good fortune hath so liberally bestowed upon them. ’Tis true, that these complaints are made but to their neerest friends and confidents.

_Don Agostino_, to say true, is much more in the right, then the Cardinal, the Pope being much more oblig’d to advance him then any of them; for he is Son to that _Augusto_, brother of the Pope, who maintain’d the Pope at his expenses in the University, supplying him afterwards with good summes of mony from time to time, without which he had undoubtedly been stopt in his course, and never been able to arrive to that pitch of Grandeur he is now in: Therefore _Don Mario_ is unjust, and _Don Agostino_ very just in his complaints; for the kindness which the Pope receiv’d from his Father, can expect no less then a Noble retribution to the Son, whereas all that the Pope doth for _Don Mario_ and his Son, ’tis out of pure favour, without any desert.

These jealousies, however they may be prejudicial to the Popes Family, yet are they very advantagious to the Church; for if they were all agreed, woe would be to _Rome_, and the Church: such would be sucked by them all, like so many Bees; but being divided, they stand in fear of one another, and dare not do unbeseeming actions: for while _Don Mario_ would have all to himself, and leave nothing for his Nephew, and that on the other side, the Nephew would have all for himself, and deprive his Uncle and Cozen of their share, they hinder one another, and _Rome_ and the Church fare the better for it.

The second demonstration of singular affection, which the Pope bears to _Don Agostino_, is his Marriage: for as soon as he saw him, he liked him so well, that he resolv’d to match with the greatest fortune of Rome, which was then the Princess _Borghese_, daughter to the Princess of _Rossano_, very rich, and having but one sickly brother, and therefore looked upon as an heiress; but however, her portion was two hundred thousand crowns in mony, besides the hereditary estate, which was in her brothers hands.

This match did not at first succeed with that easiness that was imagin’d, though the Pope employed in the compassing of it, the Jesuites Rhetorick; for the Prince Uncle, to the young Lady, had a greater inclination for the Son of the Great Constable _Colonna_, an accomplish’d young Gentleman, and already much in the Ladies favour. Therefore to avoid the match, he pretended, that indeed he did take it as a great honour to have his Neece so allyed to his Holiness, but did desire to see _Don Agostino_ better provided for, and in possession of some eminent rank in the world, that his neece might still maintain the degree of Princess she had already. Upon this the Pope did every day straine himself to make his Nephew appear greater and greater, giving places of great profit and honour, and endeavouring to buy him a Principality, which at last he effected; and though it were some disgust to him to see the Prince stand thus upon his termes, and make no other account of the honour of his Alliance; yet seeing that there was not in _Rome_ such another match to be found out, he did continually keep some Irons in the fire. Above all others, Father _Palavicinio_ a Jesuite did bestir himself in it, and as he was one day pressing the Prince, who told him, that _Don Agostino_ was not yet sufficiently provided for; he answer’d, _If the Pope should dye to day_ Don Agostino _would have ready money enough_, _to buy ten Principalities_.

While things were thus treating, the Prince _Borghese_, Tutour to the young Lady, died suddenly, so that she fell into the Tutelage of the Princess her Grandmother, a Lady of incomparable Piety, and one who shames by her good life, even the Nuns themselves, she does so much outdoe them.

The Princess of _Rossano_ is her Daughter, and Mother to the young Lady, and she to get the Popes favour, and have some part in the _Vatican_, which she hath alwayes been ambitious of, accepted the Propositions, and contributed much to the Conclusion of the Match, which was almost broke off, in which _Don Agostino_ hath a great deal of reason to be happy, having a lovely, handsome Lady, with two hundred thousand Crowns to her portion.

The Pope was transported with joy; and being naturally generous, he resolv’d that the wedding should be kept with all the magnificence imaginable, having assigned to _Don Agostino_ a hundred thousand Crowns for the expences of it, which he accordingly layed out most nobly. Besides this summe which was spent in Bals, Feastings, and Banquets, he presented the Bride with Diamonds, Pearls, and the Rose, which every year is given to some Princess to the value of 20000 Crowns, and yet in this very time the Catholick Religion was much endanger’d in _Germany_.

_Don Agostino_ after his wedding was over became so arrogant, that not being able to contain his passion, he was heard to say these words, _That he had a greater joy to have got the better of his Rival_ Colonna, _then to have obtain’d so great a Princess for Wife_: which coming to the _Colonnesses_ Ears, the Constable the Father made answer, That _his Son had reason to have desir’d the Princess_, _because he had merit enough to obtain her_; _but that_ Don Agostino _was beholding to his Uncles authority_, _without which he had never had her_.

And indeed the young _Colonna_ lost nothing by staying; three or four year after he married Cardinal _Mazarines_ Neece, the Princess _Maria Mancini_, a most accomplish’d Lady, and one who brought him above a hundred thousand Crowns to her portion.

As for the third demonstration of the Popes love to _Don Agostino_, it appear’d in the great ardour and desire he showed to make him a Prince; ’tis true, that the articles of Marriage carried, that out of the Ladies portion there should be bought a Principality, as if _Don Agostino_ had not so much deserv’d the Princess as the Popes Nephew, as in the consideration of his being a Prince which was a little infamous to the Pope.

And yet for all this the Pope would not suffer that the Principality should be bought out of the Princesse’s portion, but with a new generosity gave to _Don Agostino_ seventy thousand Crowns, with which he bought the Principality of _Farneze_, in the Patrimony of St. _Peter_, and was declared Prince, not only by the Pope, but by the Emperour, the said Principality being a feef of the Empire.

To these three effects of kindness adde the desire that the Pope hath to gather riches for _Don Agostino_, for whom he knowes that none of the rest will provide, and certainly you will conclude him to be a very loving Uncle.

The other two Nephews are, as I have said, Sons to one of the Popes sisters, married in the Family of _Bichi_; one of whom is Cardinal and Bishop of _Osimo_; and the other Knight of _Malta_, and General of the Popes Gallies.

The Cardinal at his first coming to _Rome_ was not very acceptable to the Pope; as well because he thought he had done enough in promoting him to the dignity of Cardinal, as, because he wanted capacity for any high employment. ’Tis true, that he had not been long at Court, but he began to lay aside a certain simplicity, which seemed natural to him, and with which he govern’d very well his Bishoprick, and endeavour’d to learn the Arts of Government and Negotiation, whereupon his Cozen _Floro_ gave a good Character of him to the Pope, not out of any design to oblige him, but out of a lazy principle which made him glad to find out any body upon whom he might lay a part of his burden, and this recommendation was not without good effects for Cardinal _Bichi_, for since that time the Pope hath admitted him into divers particular Congregations, and does make use of him in some occurrences, but very seldome the said Cardinal, being not in truth a man of any great wisdome.

The other Brother, who is Prior of his Order, and General of the Popes Galleys seems to be more favourably looked upon for the Pope; often calls him to him, and grants him many more favours then to the other.

This Gentleman hath got a great reputation in the World of a very ingenious person, and well versed in all Sciences, but for my part I could never find out the root, whence did spring so much desert, for he never did any thing in the world worthy an applause: he hath been sent above four times with his Galleys to the help of the _Venetians_ in _Candia_, where he never did any thing like a Knight of _Malta_; for he was alwayes afraid of fighting, even when he was cover’d by the _Venetian_ Galleys, who alwayes were the first that engaged their lives and honour.

And all this proceeded, because he did not trust his people that he had aboard; and he did not trust them, because he knew they had reason to hate him, as having defrauded them of their pay; for he did appropriate to himself most of that mony which the Pope allowed for the entertaining of his Soldiers and Stewes, who never were worse provided for then under this Noble Gentlemans command.

But I think that it is the complements which the prior _Bichi_ makes to every body that deceives them, and they are so taken with his Civility as naturally the _Romans_ are, that they in revenge give him those qualities which he is far from possessing.

His intention is to be Cardinal, whereupon every time he goes to see his brother he puts on his Brothers red Hat, and tryes it, to see how it sits upon his head. But I am afraid he will loose his longing; for the Nipotismo of the _Chigi_ are much against it; and the Pope himself hath declar’d that he will not make two Brothers Cardinals at the same time. Withall this the Prior Courts his Cozens with the profoundest respect, and the greatest submission that the lowest Courtier in _Rome_ would employ, and all to no purpose; for they all see that he aimes at the red Cap, which they are resolv’d to hinder him from attaining. And the reason why they are so averse to his promotion is, because they know him to be humorous, and apt to sow discord and dissention amongst them, which I believe he would go neer to do, if he had the liberty of talking, which a Cardinal hath.

Now if we will say something of the Women, who also serve to make up the Nipotismo, we must begin with the Lady _Berenice Don Mario’s_ Wife.

This Lady is of the Noble Family of _La Civia_, one of the considerablest of the City of _Siena_, but ill provided for by Fortune. Her husband loves her, and indeed she hath qualities that do deserve his love, being very witty, and civil, she had not been two year in _Rome_, but she was mistress of all the Court Arts, and way of living, to the great satisfaction of Embassadors, and Princes; who according to the custome of the Court go to wait upon her sometimes, where they are not a little surpriz’d to hear her discourse so well and easily of things which they only which have been bred all their life amongst Queens and Princesses can talk of, and they are the more pleased, because she does shew amidst all this capacity a great deal of modesty, which gaines the affection and respect of those that have occasion to treat with her.

_Don Mario_ her Husband is above eighteen years older then she, who is not above three and fifty, and is so fresh at that age, that one would scarce give her forty, she being subject to no infirmity at all. At her first coming to _Rome_, the Pope declar’d, that he would see her very seldome, giving her leave to demand any favour by her Husbands means, but nothing by word of mouth; and he did this to show, what a horrour he had for that impudence, with which _Donna Olympia_ used the Pope _Innocent_, to his great dishonour, and is thought, that one of the great reasons, that made this Pope keep his Kindred at such a distance for a great while, was, because he was afraid of bringing his Brothers Wife into the _Vatican_ with his Brother, the very name of a Sister in law being a most odious thing to the _Romans_, for _Donna Olympia’s_ sake; but indeed, _Donna Berenice_ is another sort of woman, and one who shews modesty and reservedness in all her carriage, being unwilling to meddle with any thing to which she is not call’d.

There is nothing to be said of this Ladies Daughters, except that the Popedom is come in good time into the Family of the _Chigi_, for else they and their Husbands had been brought very low; for when they were married they had nothing, and their Husbands but very little, which was almost consum’d by the charge of children coming on every day.

The Pope, to content the Father and Mother, gave these Ladies leave to appear in _Rome_, where they were receiv’d and treated very obligingly, by their brother the Cardinal _Padrone_, and were also visited by all the _Roman_ Nobility, and by the Ambassadours and Princes.

_Don Agostino_ was also very kind to them, though with reserve, being somewhat jealous to see them so near the Pope, whose benevolence and good will he would fain ingross for the Masculine line of the Family: And in publick the Pope did not give any demonstrations of particular favour to them, that he might not increase _Don Agostino’s_ jealousies, and the Courts murmurs; but in private he bestowed upon each of them three thousand Crowns; and in giving them this money, he said two or three times, That _what he did was out of charity_; _and that it was not his design to dissipate and spend the Churches Revenue upon his Kindred_: And these Ladies, who were born in _Siena_, and not in _Spain_, were not so scrupulously addicted to preserve the honour of their Gentility, as to refuse such Almes, as a _Spaniard_ would have done: And I believe, Reader, that you would be of the same mind, and be well pleased, if any body would give you a good sum of money, for the love of God, and out of pure charity.

Besides this, _Don Mario_, and his Lady, have without doubt, been liberal to them out of that heap of Treasure, which they so well know how to get together; so that these Ladies journey to _Rome_, hath been, no doubt, a golden journey for them, which we may conjecture, by the state they live in now at _Siena_, having bought divers Lands and Houses.

This is all that hitherto can be said of this _Nipotismo_: But besides these, the Pope hath another _Nipotismo_, of a remoter consanguinity; who are so many, that they are innumerable; and the Pope hath been hitherto averse to their coming to _Rome_, I believe, because he is unwilling to disoblige the nearest _Nipotismo_; but if his Pontificate last, as it is thought it may, the Pope, who is naturally inclin’d to do good, may by little and little give them a share in his good fortune, by Employments, Benefices, or some wayes.

Neither doth the Pope for all this, set aside his own content, which is, to erect noble Buildings and stately Edifices, wherefore he hath doubled the Workmen, in that vast Enterprize of Saint _Peter’s_ Church, being very desirous to see it finished; and having often said to some Cardinals, his Confidents, that he should not dye content, if he dyed before that were ended.

The _Nipotismo_ is strangely displeased at this expensive humour of the Popes, seeing him every day changing and streightning some Street, and mending some publick Edifice, for they would that that money were spared for them and the family of the _Chigi_. Some dayes ago, Don Mario, and Don Agostino, went about to put some other less expensive design into the Popes head, and particularly to oblige him, to give over the Porch of Saint _Peter_, which is of so vast a charge: but the Pope is not to be remov’d from his inclination, and takes it very ill, that they should controul him in his pleasure, he, who not only doth not controul them, but hath given them all the means they have; and he persists in this resolution the rather, because he is resolved to have the glory of this Enterprize, and not leave it to his Successour, who by a little addition would perfect so great a Work, and then place his Armes in the front of it as his.

Of late, _Alexander_ hath been fain to furnish to another expence, which is the Legation of the Cardinal _Padrone_, to meet the Empress at _Milan_; and the _Spaniards_ pretend, that he appear’d in greater Splendour, then he did at the Court of _France_, as well to win their good will, as to please his own ambition, in being seen in such pomp, in a place where most Ambassadours of Princes were to meet, nay, and many Princes themselves.

To say truth, the Pope deserves no small praises for his noble inclination, in honouring sometimes one Prince, sometimes another, but particularly for the zeal and piety he hath shewed, in the choice of those persons that he hath promoted to be Cardinals; for in three or four promotions he hath alwayes picked out those, who were most worthy of this eminent Dignity, having in that little regard to any bodies recommendation, if the Subjects themselves did not answer the expectation conceiv’d of them; and whosoever would enquire into the life of these his Creatures, will be satisfied of their integrity and learning, and confess, that many of them are worthy of the Popedom, and it may be, it may fall upon some of them, after the death of _Alexander_, who now thinks of little less then of dying; for at his first coming to be Pope, he thought so much of it, that now being weary of those thoughts, he thinks of nothing but living.

All his drift now is, to oblige the Cardinals to a good correspondence with _Don Agostino_, but he perpetually disobliging them with his haughty carriage, ’tis thought, that after the Popes death they will little regard his recommendations in the choice of a Successour, if things do not much change.

I would say something of the future Conclave; but I think it is to no purpose, for the Pope doth little think of leaving this world, though the Cardinals pretenders do every day long for his death, that they may bring another _Nipotismo_ in play. And some are very much convinced, that he cannot live long, considering the augmentation of his late indispositions; whereupon those Cardinals, that compose the flying Squadron, have often met in secret, to agree about a Successour; but indeed, I think that we ought to wish, that _Alexander_ may live yet, for in the present conjuncture of affairs, his death would do no less then bring trouble to _Italy_ and all _Christendome_, which God forbid.

The Pope doth every day endeavour to get a protection for his _Nipotismo_, and would fain have the _Spaniards_ declare Cardinal _Chigi_ Protector of that Crown; and the Popes Nuntio in _Spain_ hath made great instances to obtain it, that they, the Family of the _Chigi_, might be strengthened: but I do not think he will obtain it, for the _Spaniards_ are too great lovers of themselves to protect a decaying Power, which will rather be a burden then a help to their Monarchy.

* * * * *

_FINIS_.

* * * * *

The Second Part.

THE PRINTER TO THE READER.

_TO satisfie the curiosity of an infinite number of Persons_, _who_, _having seen scarce any thing else of the_ Nipotismo _besides the Title_, _do enquire after the Book with much earnestness_, _I have made hast to Print this Second Part_, _that so you might have it compleat_; _and I doubt not but you will be infinitely pleased with it_. _It is true_, _my intention was_, _in conformity to the Authors_, _to have waited yet a little longer_; _because that Affairs in_ Rome _seem inclinable to a change_: _But it was beyond my power to keep the Rain_, _which was already in the air_, _from falling to the ground_; _and I was forced to yield to the curiosity of so many Inquisitive persons_. _To which the Author was the more willing_, _because he had a desire to be rid of this_ Nipotismo, _that he might give himself up to the composing of some other Books of no less curiosity_: _And I_, _on my side_, _have been desirous to free my Press_, _that I might set __it on work again for a Book_, _which no doubt will be very welcome to you_.

_It is Intituled_, Europa Morta, _and comes from an Author who is a sworn Enemy of Flattery_. _The Subject of the Book is all Politicks_, _and very sharply handled_, _shewing the defects of all the Kingdoms and Republicks of_ Europe, _which they are now subject to for want of men of that worth and vertue_, _in whom it was anciently so abounding_.

_Divers Persons_, _that have read the_ Manuscript, _are very pressing for the publishing of it_; _which I hope will be done within this two months at least_. _And I doubt not but I shall satisfie that expectation which I now raise in you_; _for there you shall meet with the relation of some Accidents which hitherto have been kept close from the ears of the Vulgar_. _In it Praises are dispensed with measure_, _and blame with justice_; _and so I hope this_ Nipotismo _will custom you to the Lecture of such Books_, _and make your pleasure the greater when you shall meet with the_ Europa Morta, _which is Universal_.

Farewel.

The FIRST BOOK.

The Contents.

_IN which is treated_, _of the mischief which the Popedome brings upon the_ Popes. _Of two particular Examples about that_. _Of two Protestant Gentlemen that went to_ Rome _to see the Court_, _and the Church-mens way of living_, _and what came of it_. _Of the scandal which the Hereticks receive from the_ Popes _Kindred_. _Of the particular reasons which move the_ Popes _to the advancement of their Kindred_: _which are the love they bear to their own Bloud_, _the conservation of their Persons_, _and the Policy of their Government_. _Of the aime of those_ Popes _that introduc’d the title of Cardinal_ Padrone. _Of the difficulties which the Princes find in having access and treating with the_ Pope. _Of a particular case in_ Sixtus _the fifth’s time_. _Of the care the_ Popes _take to prevent their being poysoned_. _Of the miseries of the Ecclesiastick State_. _Of the mischief the Church endures because the_ Popedom _is not Hereditary_. _Of the_ Popes Nephews, _who look upon the_ Popedom _as their own_. _Of the principal reasons which oblige the_ Popes _to call their Kindred about them_. _Of the difficulty the_ Popes _would meet with in diving into Princes Secrets without the assistance of their_ Nephews. _How_ Urban _did instruct his_ Nephews. _How Cardinal_ Astalli _was introduced into the_ Nipotismo. _Of the opinion of Cardinal_ Mazarine _about that business_. _Of the great Authority which_ Gregory _the_ 15th. _gave to Cardinal_ Ludovisio _his_ Nephew. _Of the Republick of_ Venice, _which obliges the Kindred of their dead Duke to satisfie by Fines for those Errors which the Duke did commit while he was alive_. _Of some particularities about the Accident that befel the Duke of_ Crequy. _Of a Discourse held to_ Monsignor Rasponi _by the_ Pope. _Of the way that the_ Popes _have to conceal the Secrets of their Court_. _Of the reasons why the said Court is so Magnificent_. _Of the Friendships of the Cardinals towards Princes_, _and of the Correspondence of Princes with the said Cardinals_. _Of the passage of a certain Cardinal from the Spanish Faction to the French_. _Of the Spiritual Power of the_ Pope, _and how it is upheld by the Temporal_; _and Of the nature of Money in Church-mens hands_.

ALL that we have said hitherto, is but the Foundation of what we have to say: For to what end would it be to have seen the _Nipotismo_ in Rome, if we did not see _Rome_ in the _Nipotismo_? And we have been curious to pry into that which the _Popes_ have done for their Kindred, we may much more justly examine that which the Kindred does for the _Popes_.

A _German_ Prelate, who now lives, and has some Opinions very different from the profession he makes of a Church-man; That is, Who is more Heretick than Catholick, does upon all occasions, and whensoever he happens into any company, where there is a liberty of talking, profess his mind in few words, and without any ambiguity, by saying, _That the_ Popes _Kindred acquire this world by their Uncles Indulgence_; _and that the Uncle loses the other world by his Nephews Vices_.

This opinion, which by many Catholicks would be condemned as Heretick, has nevertheless a great foundation in reason; and I am sure that the most able and ingenious men of the Court of _Rome_ do allow of it, and maintain it, as being a Prelate’s opinion.

_David_, who was King, Priest, and Prophet, was continually in fear of being damned for others sins; and, as we see, did every day desire of God to be delivered from that imputation: And yet the _Popes_ not only do not apprehend that they may be damned for their Kindreds sins, but do furnish them with the means of offending his Divine Majesty. Certainly, the _Pope’s_ Relations would take another course if they thought they were out of the way to Heaven; neither would they be so covetous in heaping riches together, if they knew that the treasure of the Church is but in trust, and not in propriety to the _Popes_.

The Duke _Valentine_, Son to _Alexander_ the 6th. did commit all sort of crimes imaginable, breaking both Divine and Humane Laws without any regard or consideration. But that which was worst of all, was, that he covered his Vices with the Cloak of the _Popes_ Authority; Saying, whensoever he was about to commit a crime: _That he did very well know what he was about to do was just_; _for his Father_, _who did give him leave to do it_, _had the Holy Ghost_.

This is the mischief that the Popedom does to the _Popes_; or rather, that the _Popes_ do to the Popedom. For to say true, the Popedom would be holy if the _Popes_ were so too: But they do not desire it, or they cannot desire it, being governed by their Relations: if not as Popes, at least as private persons.

To this purpose I remember a Story which hapned about twenty years ago, and to which I give the greater credit; because I have it from a worthy Person, and one who heard the words which were said.

A _Swedish_ Gentleman had left _Stockholm_, the Capital of the Kingdom, with a design to travel over all _Europe_, as Gentry uses to do: But his principle aim was to be instructed in the way of Worship of the Church of _Rome_, and be well informed of the difference between the Protestant and Catholick Religion, with a resolution to follow that which he should like best; and he thought no place fitter for his design than _Rome_, as being the City which gives the rule to others, having in it the Head of the Church, and an infinity of Church-men and Prelates.

In his way thither he met with another _German_, a Protestant, who had the same design; whereupon having contracted a great Friendship together, they continued their journey, and hapned to come to _Rome_ in the beginning of the holy Week, which is the week before _Easter_.

Being lodged, they began by little and little to frequent the Churches, see the Ceremonies, enquire into the _Pope’s_ Power, into his Court, and a thousand other particularities, all relating to the same end. The Magnificence of the _Pope’s_ Habit, the rich Ornaments of the Altars, the variety of Ceremonies, the Majesty of the Cardinals, and Prelates, the Devotion of the Monks and Fryars, and the great concourse of people to the Churches, did at first surprize these young Gentlemen; and inflame in them that desire which curiosity had already kindled.

Having observed all these things with great care and exactness, they began to inform themselves of the Civil Power of the _Pope_; of the Entrigues of the Court; of the Government of the City and State. And in their exact Inquisition they found that indeed all that Policy and Humane Wit could produce was to be seen in the Church-Government, and did not much disapprove of it: But no sooner had they (following still their first curiosity) pryed into the business of the _Nipotismo_, and discovered the interests of the Nephew towards the Uncle, and the Uncle towards the Nephew; but they presently resolved to return home, and live and die in the Protestant Religion.

The _German_, whether it was that he had dived into the secret of the _Nipotismo_, or for some other reason, was not altogether averse from changing his Religion; though by no means he would not remain in _Rome_: But the _Swede_ was so scandalized at the Church-mens lives, that having conceived a perfect hatred for them, he said to the _German_, _That he would never be the Subject of a Bishop who should be the Slave of his own Relations_.

Of this Gentleman’s opinion there are many, not only in Protestant Countries, but in the middle of _Italy_ it self; and I wish to God, that many of those sins, which lie so heavy upon the _Romans_ consciences, had not been occasioned by the scandal which they continually receive from the _Nipotismo_.

That which I have related of a _Swede_ is not much different from what I have to say of an English or Scottish man, I know not well which; but I am a very fit person to relate the Story, for I was present at the dispute which he had with a French Bishop: which was thus:

This Stranger had been two years in _Rome_, in which time he had had divers occasions of being known to the _Pope_ and his Nephews, as likewise of knowing them; and had been infinitely scandalized to see the small care the _Pope_ did take to correct his Nephews extravagancies both in Morals and Polities: But above all, he was much grieved to see that the _Pope_ had taken out of the Treasure of the Church the richest Jewels to bestow them upon his Nephews; and that they made no scruple of robbing the Church to enrich themselves. Having met in _France_ with this French Bishop, they fell upon the discourse of Religion. The Bishop perceiving the ill impressions he had received at _Rome_, thought it was a part of his duty to endeavour to blot them out of this Gentleman’s mind, by telling him, _That it was impossible to be saved out of the Church of_ Rome. But all that he could say was to no purpose, for the Protestant could scarce afford him audience, but impatiently interrupting him, told him, _That it was a hard matter that the_ Pope _could save others_, _since he did give his own Nephews a most inevitable occasion of damnation_.

Every day the Casuists are disputing, _whether or no a Thief may be saved without restitution of his theft if he be in a possibility to do it_? And they all agree, that he must either make amends by restitution, or be damned. If this be so, how is it possible for the _Pope’s_ Nephews, if the greatest part of their Revenues are the spoils of the Church, and got by unlawful means, the _Popes_ having raised that very money, which they are so proud of, either out of dead mens graves, or the veines of the living.

Though this be true, and that the mischief, which the _Popes_ receive from their Kindred be very great; yet it is a necessary one, and so necessary, that many are of opinion, that those _Popes_ who do forbear advancing their Relations are but small Politicians.

Three Reasons do particularly move the _Popes_ to call their Relations to them: First, The affection which naturally we bear to our bloud and kindred, The conservation of their Persons, and the Policy of their Government.

For the first, I hold him little better than a Beast, that has no tye of Consanguinity upon him, having many Relations that need his help; none but barbarous people are ignorant of those Laws of nature, and are not altogether deprived of the use of them neither.

This love to ones Relations encreases as the Relations themselves do multiply. And we may say, that love naturally descends; for in old people their love is greatest to their Grand-children, and the fifth generation still carry the old mans affections from the third and fourth. From hence proceeds, that the _Popes_, who ordinarily are old, are so passionate for the advancement of their Nephews, for whom often they hazard their reputations in this world, and their souls in the next.

With our Kindred there is no _Medium_ to be observed; we must either love them tenderly, and do for them all that lies in our power: Or we must hate them perfectly, and become cruel. It is not possible to be indifferent, and do them neither good nor evil; that would be to be neither man nor beast, which is impossible.

There has been some _Popes_, who in the beginning of their Reign, out of Zeal and Piety, have shewed themselves averse from their Kindred; not only refusing to favour them, but seeking out all occasions of mortifying them. But what folly, what devillish policy, what false hypocrisie is this? For my part, I call such a disposition a vicious humour, which soon passes out of them, or destroys them, Nature it self being offended at this so unnatural a proceeding.