Chapter IV: Preface (3)

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Sidenote: _Decem. 6._]

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

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

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

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

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

* * * * *

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

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

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

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

[Sidenote: _Jan. 28. 1644._]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

After this, he spent several Months in encreasing the Number of Conspirators, the chief of which were the Commissary _de la Crusada_; the Count _d'Armamar_, Nephew to the Archbishop; the Count _de Ballerais_; Don _Augustin Emanuel_; _Antonio Correa_, that Clerk of _Vasconcellos_, to whom _Menezes_ had given divers Stabs on the first Day of the Revolution; _Laurento Pidez Carvable_, Keeper of the Royal Treasury; with several others, who were the Creatures of the _Spanish_ Ministers, to whom they ow'd their Fortunes and their Places, and which they could not hope to keep long, unless by once more introducing the _Spanish_ Government.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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