Birth of Prince Federigo--The Duke's retired habits
and aversion to business--His constitution-making
experiments--His instructions to his son--The Prince's
unfortunate education and character.
Although the patriotism and loyalty of his people had been gratified
by the gracious manner in which he had assented to their eager desire
for his marriage, yet was there wanting somewhat to the full fruition
of their cherished hopes. The health of the Duchess was watched
with anxiety, and when months had passed away without the promise
of an heir, apprehensions more restless than before spread over the
land. In a matter beyond the limits of human will, recourse was had
to the Dispenser of all events. Prayers were offered up in public
and private. Vows were solemnly registered by all the towns, by
confraternities, even by village communities and private individuals,
for the erection and dedication of churches and altars, especially
to S. Ubaldo, once bishop of Gubbio, who had been assumed as special
protector of that city and of the race of Montefeltro. About the
beginning of 1605, it was announced that these devotional appeals
had been crowned with success: the gloomy anticipations of the
citizens were turned to joyous hope; and so formidable to the public
tranquillity did the reaction of enthusiasm appear, that orders were
issued for transporting into the fortress of Pesaro all the state
archives, in case any tumult or conflagration might endanger their
safety.
As the Duchess's confinement drew near, the subject seemed
exclusively to engross men's minds, and when her hour was reported
to have arrived, the piazza in front of the palace was crowded
with an impatient multitude, who remained a day and night in eager
expectation. At length, on the morning of the 16th of May, the
festival of the patron saint Ubaldo, to whom their prayers had been
addressed, about nine o'clock, the Duke appeared at a window of the
great hall, and announced with a loud and clear voice, "God has
vouchsafed us a boy!" The cheer of joyous triumph which rang through
the palace-yards was but an inadequate expression of the general
exultation, and the precautions taken to preserve the peace proved
but too limited; for the insensate popular excitement vented itself
in an attack upon the Jews' quarter, and succeeded in sacking and
burning their synagogue and shops, in spite of exertions by the
military, who had been held in readiness to quell the outbreak.
Meanwhile salvoes of artillery proclaimed the Prince's advent; and in
grateful acknowledgment of his good fortune, his father proclaimed
pardon to many prisoners, and favours to various classes of his
subjects. At the same time, with due regard to good order, he checked
the longer continuance of noisy and tumultuous festivity, and in
particular prohibited discharges of fire-arms under the heavy penalty
of 100 scudi.
Any scepticism which might have been secretly entertained of the
infant being truly a _dieu-donné_, in special answer to the thousand
prayers that had been proffered to or through S. Ubaldo, was removed
or silenced by his arrival on the fête of that saint whose hold on
the devotional feelings of the people was thus marvellously riveted.
Among the couriers speedily despatched over the duchy to bear boot
and spur the happy news, one directed to Gubbio, the city and diocese
of S. Ubaldo, was charged with a special letter from Francesco
Maria.[*90] Arriving in hot haste, he found the whole population
assembled in arms in the piazza, with the magistrates at their
head, to whom he delivered the welcome missive; after publication
of which the multitude formed a solemn procession to the cathedral,
to render thanksgivings to S. Ubaldo, its and their protector. In
that church the community of Gubbio lost no time in erecting a new
chapel commemorative of the occasion, and placed on the altar a
picture, in which the Madonna and Child smile benignantly on the
suppliant saints, John Baptist and Ubaldo (the former their original
patron), whilst in the lower part is seen the courier's arrival with
the ducal despatch. Other places were scarcely less enthusiastic
in redeeming their pious pledges, though enthusiasm seems to have
been occasionally tempered by meaner considerations. Thus, in the
communal records of S. Angelo in Vado, I found appeals from the Duke
to quicken the tardy contribution of 500 scudi towards the erection
of a votive church to S. Ubaldo; and months were spent in discussions
among the magistracy how that sum was to be raised, by an assessment
upon the artisans, and a duty upon butcher-meat. I know not whether
we are to regard as an economical solution of the difficulty an altar
picture in the church of S. Filippo there, in which S. Ubaldo is
represented as introducing to the Madonna and Child the young Prince,
led up by S. Crescenzio, the patron of Urbino, while St. John Baptist
intercedes in his behalf. Federigo seems a child about five years
old, in a very richly embroidered dress, and strongly resembles a
portrait of him which came into my hands from the Vatican Library,
and which is here introduced.[91]
[Footnote *90: Cf. PELLEGRINI, _op. cit._, in _Boll. cit._, vol.
_cit._, p. 506 _et seq._ There seems always to have been an
antagonism between Gubbio and Urbino, and now Gubbio could certainly
crow. She appears to have done so. See note 2, p. 506, of work
quoted. The country was not quiet after the rejoicing till May 30th,
the festa being kept in all the cities. CORRADI, _Feste per il
nascimento di un Principe nel sec. XVII._ in _Il Giornale di Foligno_
(Foligno, 1887), No. 28 _et seq._ describes the rejoicing in Cagli.]
[Footnote 91: In 1843-6, a variety of duplicates and objects of
art belonging to the Vatican Library were exchanged away, with the
sanction of Gregory XVI., whilst my lamented friend Monsignore
Laureani, the librarian, was forming, by that Pontiff's order,
from very limited resources, a most interesting series of early
panel pictures illustrating the progress of Christian painting.
The portrait of Prince Federigo now belongs to my friend Andrew
Coventry, Esq., Edinburgh, and appears the production of a scholar of
Baroccio.]
According to the religious usages of the age, the measure of
gratitude due by the sovereigns of Urbino for their long desired heir
would have remained incomplete without a pilgrimage of thanksgiving
to the Madonna of Loreto. Benedetto Benedetti, librarian to the
Duke, writes, on the 20th June, 1605,[92] that the Duchess was to
set out next day on this holy mission, "carrying with her a plate
of solid gold, the size of a half sheet of writing paper, on which
was portrayed in oil by a young pupil of Baroccio the infant Prince,
who is one of the most lovely babes I should wish to look upon; fat,
of good complexion, and comely features, his eyes large and black,
unlike those of the Duke, and his mouth resembling his mother's."
It appears, however, from the Diary of Francesco Maria, that he
had already acquitted himself of this pious debt by attending the
festival of the Corpus Domini at Loreto on the 9th of June. On the
29th the Duchess carried her son to Urbino. At the gate they were met
by twelve youths in blue damask trimmed with gold, and twenty-four
children in white and gold; and the Prince, with his nurse, was borne
by these youths in a close chair to the palace, through streets
embellished with fountains and other ornaments.
[Footnote 92: Oliveriana MSS. No. 375.]
Three days after the child's birth he had been privately baptised
by the Bishop of Pesaro on Ascension Day, and named Federigo Ubaldo
Giuseppe. His public baptism took place on the 29th November at
Urbino, on which occasion his father, in deference to the loyal
joy of his subjects, broke through his wonted habits of quiet and
retirement, and celebrated the solemnity with a pomp more congenial
to the pageant observances of Italian courts than to his own tastes.
Every community of the duchy, by special invitation, sent their
deputies, expensively arrayed, and bearing costly gifts. The states
of Italy likewise were there, represented by ambassadors rivalling
each other in magnificence. But chief among all was the Marquis
of Pescara, envoy of Philip III. of Spain, who, before its birth,
had promised to stand godfather to the infant. We pass over the
ceremonial with which he was welcomed, but must pause for a little
upon the spectacle of the baptism, as described in a contemporary
narrative.[93]
[Footnote 93: Vat. Urb. MSS. No. 818, f. 444.]
From the houses in front of the Duomo were displayed those rich and
many-tinted hangings which add so much to the effect of an Italian
pageant. The short space from the palace was closed in by an awning
of green, red, and white, the ducal liveries. The whole interior
of the church was hung with magnificent decorations, in which were
mingled tapestries and brocades, pictures and heraldic blazonry. The
high altar was profusely furnished with statues, vases, candlesticks,
all of solid silver. Into the cathedral thus prepared was seen
advancing, about two hours before mid-day, under a bright and genial
sun, a most imposing procession. The principal public functionaries,
and the most distinguished of the nobility, were followed by
twenty-five pages of high birth, dressed in Damascus blue. Then came
representatives of the seven principal cities, bearing the massive
silver vessels to be used in the ceremony. At their head walked Count
Alessandro Tiane, Gonfaloniere of Urbino, conspicuous not less by
his handsome person than by the rare splendour of his costume. He
wore a close-fitting dress of white, brocaded with gold and silver;
his flowing mantle of purple velvet was lined with violet and gold;
and on his neck and cap was displayed a profusion of costly jewels.
A scarf embroidered with pearls and precious stones suspended from
his neck a white cushion, whereon lay the babe in "toys of quaint
apparel," which the writer attempts not to describe. The nurse,
attended by sixty noble matrons arrayed in gala, closed the cortège,
amid the clang of artillery and martial music. The sacred rite
was administered by the Bishop of Fossombrone, and the religious
function having been auspiciously ended, the company proceeded to a
ball, followed by a supper, where the grotesque taste and elaborate
ingenuity of Italian confectioners were lavishly displayed in the
table-ornaments.
About seven in the evening, the guests were summoned by trumpet to
the windows and balconies to witness a triumphal representation of
the glories of Duke Federigo, whose name had that day been revived
in the infant Prince. The space in front of the palace was fitted
up as a vast stage laid out with woodland scenery, in the midst
whereof rose a mountain, emblematic of the Apennines. Near its
summit a cavern exhibited antique trophies and elephants, among
which was a broken bust of Asdrubal, allusive to the defeat of the
Carthaginian army near the Furlo pass. The whole was overshadowed by
two vast oaks personifying the Duke and Duchess, under which were
grouped shepherds playing on their national instruments. Across this
mimic representation of the duchy of Urbino a gorgeous procession
passed with military music, in the following order. The car of
Fame advanced, glittering with the precious metals, and drawn by
winged horses. On its front, amid garlands of flowers, was perched
a black eagle crowned, the monarch of birds, and heraldic bearing
of Montefeltro; and it contained figures of Fame, Time, and Truth.
Fame stood winged upon a globe, to which were yoked two dolphins; her
robe of gold and silver tissue was _semé_ with countless eyes, ears,
and mouths, and in her hand she held a golden trumpet. Before her
sat old Time, with his hour-glass; behind, Truth chanted stanzas in
compliment to the hero of two mottoes which were displayed over the
car:--
"TO THESE AND EARTH'S MOST DISTANT LANDS ARE SHOWN
OUR FREDERICK'S GLORIOUS DEEDS, HIS HONOUR AND RENOWN."
"BY MARTIAL VALOUR WERE HIS TITLES WON."
In the procession which followed, were borne the armorial insignia
of Duke Federigo, and of the sovereigns in close alliance with him;
his various decorations of knighthood, the golden rose, the sword and
baton of the Church, and similar badges of his dignities. Then came
another car, drawn by four horses, and magnificently ornamented with
cornucopias of public prosperity, intermingled with devices used by
the various Dukes, amid which sat Justice, Bravery, and Prudence.
Next marched by, an imposing military pageant, with the banners and
ensigns of those states and cities over which Federigo had been
victorious, and with the batons of command entrusted to him by the
different powers whom he had served. To these succeeded a third car,
still more magnificently decked out, which was dedicated to martial
glory, and bore a figure of Pallas copied from the antique; it was
laden with pictures and mottoes, allusive to his principal triumphs;
and over a mass of books was the legend,--
"MINERVA'S LIBERAL ARTS HIS VICTORIES DID CROWN."
This lengthened procession having all passed, the various figures
who had performed in it assembled upon the stage and executed a
melodramatic ballet, which lasted till about 10 p.m.; and the
ceremonies of the day were wound up by a splendid display of
fireworks.[94] It has been stated in most accounts of the baptism,
that the Golden Fleece was conferred on the infant by the Marquis
of Pescara in name of his master Philip III. But, from the Diary of
Francesco Maria, we learn that this decoration had been transmitted
to himself some weeks before, that he, as a knight of that order,
might invest the Marquis with it, which was duly done on the 1st of
December.
[Footnote 94: A comparison of this stately entertainment with the
ceremonial at the baptism of Prince Henry of Scotland in 1594, as
given in the _Lives of the Lindsays_, vol. I., 382, from a rare
contemporary pamphlet, shows how Italian revels influenced the
courtly displays of our ancestors, due allowance being made for the
difference of climate and the somewhat more material attractions of
the northern festivity.]
The Duke's advancing years had by this time considerably modified
his personal habits. To the pleasures of the chase succeeded the
less fatiguing interests of a large breeding stud. His partiality
for animals and natural history had long induced him to give his
attention to improve the race of horses, and he notes in his Diary
frequent arrivals of stock of all sorts from various quarters,
purchased or received in presents. Thus, in 1588, he had fifty-four
young horses at one time from the Duke of Savoy, and he mentions
paying 300 to 500 ducats for stallions. After his second marriage,
entries of this sort became more frequent, and details of hunting
less so. The great breeding establishment was maintained on Monte
Corciano near Cagli, where the young stock ran at grass during
the summer months; in winter they were brought down to Mirafiori,
where those which were sufficiently advanced went into the hands of
breakers. This was a casino just without the walls of Pesaro, so
called from a flower-garden the Duke had made there, whither rare
and beautiful plants were brought from all parts at great expense.
In it too was preserved a very rich armoury collected by him, which
is mentioned with admiration by Scotti in his published travels, and
which afterwards passed to the grand-ducal family of Tuscany.
But the most marked alteration of his character was his growing
aversion to public business, and increasing proneness to gratify
his secluded and selfish habits by devoting an undue portion of
time to his private relaxations of study and books. The tendency to
solitude which had been gradually stealing upon him was checked for
a season after the birth of his son. This joyous occasion seems to
have in some degree revived the elasticity of his youthful feelings:
his visits to Pesaro were more frequent, and, in 1606, the Comedy
of _L'Ingannata_ was repeatedly performed in the palace there. Ere
long, however, his mind gradually relapsed into a sort of morbid
abstraction which was constitutional to him, and the retirement of
Castel Durante became more and more attractive. It would indeed have
been difficult to find a spot more congenial. Known originally as
Castel del Ripa, a title appropriate to its position on a peninsula,
formed by the rugged ravine of the brawling Metauro, it had been
destroyed about 1277, in a foray of the people of Urbino, whence it
is distant about nine miles. Pope Martin IV. ordered it to be rebuilt
by his Legate in Romagna, Guglielmo Durante, a noted canonist, who
gave it his own name. Having subsequently passed in seigneury to the
Brancaleoni of Mercatello, it was obtained, under the title partly
of conquest, partly of inheritance, by the Counts of Montefeltro,
in 1429. After that dynasty had been extinguished, it owed to papal
munificence a second re-edification in 1636, when Urban VIII. raised
it to the rank of a city, suffragan to the Bishop of S. Angelo in
Vado; and the improvements he made upon it are commemorated by his
statue erected in the town, and by another change to its present name
of Urbania.
Its situation is singularly beautiful. Surrounded by wooded hills, it
occupies the nearest point of the upper valley of the Metauro, which
extends to the Mercatello in a stretch of rich alluvial land that
pleasingly contrasts with the rest of this highland province. Adapted
equally for the sports of the chase, and for a peaceful retreat
from the busy world, it was in all respects suited to the wants of
Francesco Maria, in youth and in advancing years. His usual residence
was a large palace which, entering from the street, overhangs to
the back the romantic river; and which, like many more of the ducal
possessions, has passed to the Albani, and is doomed to the neglect
consequent upon absenteeism and protracted litigation. It was here
probably that he built a library, to which in 1609 he transported
from Pesaro the many books which he had collected, leaving at Urbino
those which had been amassed by his predecessors. On the opposite
bank he enclosed an extensive park, and stocked it with fallow-deer
and smaller game. Within that enclosure, on the slopes of Monte
Berticchio, he built, after his second marriage, another palace, and
surrounded it with a delightful garden. The park walls also included
the convent of Franciscan Observantines, which still stands about a
mile to the west of Urbania; and to them perhaps may be attributed
the beginning of that monkish influence which tinged his latter
years. But they were eventually superseded in his regard by the
Minims, for whom, in 1617, he purchased the church of the Madonna
della Neve, just beyond the park gate, and changed its name to that
of the Crucifix. He there built for them a small convent, and invited
to it twelve monks, distinguished for learning and acquirements in
those philosophic pursuits which chiefly occupied his mind. Thus, as
years advanced, did he become more and more inordinately attached
to Castel Durante, where, leaving in his capital the trappings of
sovereignty, he surrounded himself with a small and select suite, and
sought in books and philosophic discussions, those gratifications
which, since the chase had lost its charms, were most conducive to
his humour. Here accordingly we find him corresponding with Isaac
Casaubon, as to a MS. of Polybius, which, by desire of Henry IV.,
he had forwarded for an edition then in preparation at Paris, and
urging its restoration, on the plea that MSS. of such value were not
removed from the library, even for his own use.[95] It was doubtless
the same Polybius which Giunta tells us was returned by that monarch
under a military escort.[96]
[Footnote 95: Brit. Mus., Burney MSS. No. 367, f. 64.]
[Footnote 96: MS. Albani Library at Rome.]
It being the whim of Francesco Maria to unite in his person
the opposite characters of monarch and philosopher, manifold
inconsistencies were the natural consequence. In the address to his
subjects, which we have quoted in reference to his second marriage,
we have seen him dwell on the government of a minor as the greatest
evil that could befall a people. Yet scarcely had he obtained the
blessing of an heir than he began to devise steps for devolving
prematurely upon his child the responsibility of sovereignty, and
thereby releasing himself from those cares of state which reached him
even at Castel Durante, and jarred upon his morbid love of seclusion
and books. To this motive, at least, seem attributable the measures
which we are now to detail, although he apparently excused them to
himself as a wise precaution, in anticipation of his own death ere
his son should have attained maturity. But, whatever may have been
his real inducement, the scheme, so novel in that age, of imparting
to his subjects a share in the government, was obviously calculated
to gratify his love of philosophic speculation, while it threw upon
others those duties and anxieties from which the prevailing desire of
his advancing years was to escape.
His first step towards this plan was taken in 1696, by ordaining
that the episcopal cities of Urbino, Pesaro, Gubbio, Sinigaglia,
Fossombrone, Cagli, and S. Leo, with the province of Massa Trabaria,
should send him a leet of their inhabitants most qualified for the
administration of affairs. Selecting one from each, he constituted
them into a council of state, to sit permanently in Urbino: on this
body he conferred the most ample powers to govern in his name, and,
in the case of his death, to become the regency. In order fully to
explain this project, we quote the state documents relating to
it, which have been printed by Marini in his _Saggio di S. Leo_.
These will be rendered more intelligible by premising that the
inhabitants of towns were then divided into four classes,--the
nobility, the merchants and wealthy citizens, the master artisans,
and the operative artisans. Each of these chose their own prior, and
the prior of the nobles was the gonfaloniere, to whom, among other
duties, was confided the standard in battle. These political rights
did not extend to peasants, menial servants, nor mechanics of the
baser callings.
"To the magnificent and our well-beloved, the Gonfaloniere
and Priors of S. Leo, and to the Four, and the Parliament
of the province of Montefeltro, THE DUKE OF URBINO.
"Magnificent and well-beloved,
"Ever since the birth of the son whom God has vouchsafed
to us, it has been our fixed intention, in consideration
of the age we have attained, to leave behind us such a
form of government as may, during his minority, secure
your welfare, and be in conformity to your wishes; and
the desire increases with the affection which we bear to
you, and to which you are so well entitled. For this end
nothing seems more suitable than that you should govern
the commonwealth and him also. To carry our design into
execution, your council of S. Leo, uniting with the Four
and the Parliament of the province of Montefeltro, will
elect three or four well-qualified persons, without
reference to their rank or station, or to their being
members of council or parliament. From these we shall
select one, who, together with those from the other seven
communities, may represent our whole state, and give
their undivided attention to such important matters for
the general weal as shall be impartially proposed by us,
with a view to your own benefit, and that of our house.
The enclosed draft is sent to you as a foretaste of this
plan of government. Be careful, therefore, to complete
the election as soon as possible, as it is our intention
to make trial during our life of this mode of government,
and so to introduce it that, after us, it may proceed with
the more facility, and in better order, in the name of
the Almighty. From all this we feel assured that you must
perceive the great confidence which we have in you, and
which we firmly hope will much contribute to those good
results of our plan so strenuously desired by us and by
you. May the Lord God protect you.
"From Urbino, the 24th of August, 1606.
"FRANCESCO MARIA."
[_Draft enclosed in the preceding letter._]
"The form of government by the persons elected shall be as
follows. All the Eight shall reside at Urbino, with the
same absolute rules as I myself enjoy, attending with all
diligence and loyal fidelity to the guidance of the state
and of their pupil. And, further, each of them shall make
oath before the auditors to exercise their functions in
the manner prescribed, and, in due time, to execute to the
letter my testament, and all such written memoranda as I
may leave behind me.
"They shall have two secretaries, one for foreign affairs
and correspondence, the other for those of the interior,
and shall assemble with them twice a day, or oftener if
necessary. They shall take their seats at the same side of
the table in their respective order; and those whose rank
may have been matter of dispute shall decide by lot who is
to take precedence at first, and shall thereafter enjoy
it by turns, changing each succeeding month. They shall
observe the same order in voting and on all occasions of
meeting for public business, but at other times they are
to have no sort of rank. And this rule shall be observed
as to all questions of precedence that may arise, until it
be modified by consent or legal authority, always without
prejudice to the rights of individuals; and, if any one be
discontented therewith, the others shall be entitled to
administer the state with unimpaired authority.
"They shall enjoin the secretaries to make minutes of all
that occurs, writing them afterwards into a book for the
purpose. The Eight, or whatever be their number, shall
discuss verbally all motions, and ballot upon them, the
resolutions supported by most balls being carried; and this
shall be specially minuted, with the signature of both
secretaries. In case of an equality of votes, the president
of the bench of auditors shall be called upon to decide the
point.
"All their resolutions, letters, and documents shall run
in name of the sovereign, with the ducal seal, and with
signatures of the first in rank, and of the two secretaries.
"In absence of one or more from illness, or the like lawful
cause, the others shall continue vested with the same
authority, provided there be a quorum of five; but, if
fewer, the auditors must make up that number. And, should
one die, or become permanently disabled, his place must be
forthwith filled up by election of another leet as at first.
"The courts of law [_udienza_] shall continue to enjoy the
same authority as heretofore, but subject to the first of
the eight deputies, to whom shall be submitted memorials of
all cases for pardon, in the same way as has been hitherto
observed. By these courts shall be named the officers of
justice for the state, who, in absence of cause shown to
the contrary, shall be confirmed by the deputies, on whom
shall depend absolutely all the other officers of the
household and state.
"And, in order that these deputies may give undivided
attention to their official duties, they shall each receive
from the treasury 300 scudi a year."[97]
[Footnote 97: Vat. Ottob. MSS. No. 3184, f. 154. The salary of 300
scudi was increased to 400.]
Four days after date of the preceding letter, the provincial
parliament of Montefeltro, and the council of S. Leo, met to
deliberate thereon, by summons from the commissioner of the province
and the podestà of the town. The parliament consisted of four
delegates from the landward districts, and twenty-nine others from
as many townships; the council was composed of the gonfaloniere,
three priors, and twenty-nine citizens. They elected four deputies
by ballot, excluding, by a majority of black beans, two of those
proposed; and, from these four, one whose election had been unanimous
was selected by the Duke as deputy to the council. Similar forms
having been observed by the remaining cities, the council entered
upon their duties on 22nd of January, 1607, and Francesco Maria
resigned himself more than ever to the selfish ease of his solitary
and abstracted life at Castel Durante, flattering himself (to use his
own words) that "they would inform themselves fully of all matters of
internal policy and foreign relations, and would direct these for the
service of God, and to the benefit of his subjects, and of his heir."
It would be tedious and unnecessary to notice all the minute
instructions issued from time to time to the Eight on matters of
police, of patronage, or of trade. The following memorandum, however,
written out by Francesco Maria himself for their guidance, in 1611,
affords some insight into his views of general policy:--
"In order to continue hourly more fully satisfied with you, I give
you the following suggestions, which seem to me called for at
this moment. Ever have before your eyes the three objects which
I have often enforced upon you--plenty, peace, and justice. The
first of these will be secured if the old plan for plenty be not
re-established, which, indeed, might be more appropriately called
perpetual scarcity, as it was adopted solely for enriching six or
eight of the worst citizens who managed it; and should it become
necessary to purchase grain, let an advance from my funds be made
to the public, always endeavouring to clear off such loans as
remain undischarged. And never permit the local councils to meddle
with matters that concern them not, seeing that I, by adopting the
contrary plan for their satisfaction, fell into errors which turned
out ill.
"As to maintaining peace among my subjects, this may easily be done
by chastising the riotous and sowers of dissension and discord, whose
punishment ought to be public and severe; above all things preventing
persons of whatsoever rank to pretend to or maintain retinues of
followers, or to domineer over others.
"Justice will be observed by insuring the prompt issue of suits,
and by punishing judges when they fall into error; but especially
by enforcing an inviolate observance of all orders, decrees, and
proclamations; by rarely, and only from necessity, suspending the
prosecution of outlaws; and by receiving few fugitives from other
states. Prevent so great an increase of lawyers and notaries, and
offer obstacles to their admission. Show no undue favour to parties
in suits. Vigilantly defend our authority, ever covertly assailed;
but do this by fair means, avoiding if possible open ruptures. Eschew
partiality and prejudice, rigorously maintaining justice and your
duty.
"In the despatch of business promptitude is requisite, avoiding
arrears, which occasion oversights, and lead to a wholesale
transaction of affairs, without the accuracy necessary to their
being done well; and although full consideration and discussion
be required, there are few matters which cannot be exhausted by
employing on them one's entire energy during two hours; after
which they should be carried into effect quickly, without further
discourse, but with secrecy. Provided you do all these things with
that affection upon which I rely, I doubt not of their happy issue;
but I again, and for the last time, remind you that your chief
care should be the punctual execution of all my injunctions and
commands."[98]
[Footnote 98: Vat. Ottob. MSS. No. 3134, f. 158.]
Whatever may have been the immediate effect upon the management
of public affairs of the Duke's wayward conduct, its mischievous
influence on the character of the young Prince was not long dormant.
His education was entrusted, in 1607, to the Countess Vittoria
Tortora Ranuccio Santinelli, whose husband was major-domo to the
Duke; but the anxiety felt for a life so precious was unduly
exaggerated by certain symptoms of childish delicacy, and the
system adopted was that of unbounded indulgence, balanced by no
obligation to apply himself to anything. Before he had completed
his second year, Philip III. settled upon him in reversion his
father's retaining pension of 15,000 golden scudi, and company of
men-at-arms in Naples, assuring him of ample protection. That the
Duke was sensitively anxious to prepare his mind for the duties of
manhood thus crowded prematurely upon him, is interestingly shown by
a paper of instructions, written in the anticipation of his being
left an early orphan. To find in it maxims directly opposed to the
writer's own practice may afford scope for saddening speculation to
a philosophic moralist, and must have greatly detracted from their
influence upon the boy to whom they were addressed. The length of the
document, and its interruption to our narrative, will be excused from
its importance as illustrating the character of Francesco Maria.
"Believing that at my advanced age I cannot be much longer
with you, I have resolved to write down certain memoranda
which I consider it most necessary that you should
remember, preserving them not merely under your eye, but
impressing them deep on your heart; for by none can they be
offered you with more affection, or perhaps with greater
experience, from the affairs which I have conducted.
"I would, therefore, desire you chiefly to endeavour
with all your might, to live in the favour of our Lord
God, devoutly honouring His holy name, and being careful
never to offend Him, firm in His most holy faith without
superstition. As to priests and monks, after securing them
in the position which is their due, do not establish with
them much familiarity beyond what your devotional duties
call for; but leave them to look to their proper business,
whilst you attend to yours without their assistance,
further than their prayers in your behalf.
"Be not merely faithful to his Holiness the Pope, but also
obedient, doing all that in you lies for his service, and
with sincere attachment seeking to exalt the Holy See.
"In the service of his Catholic Majesty show yourself at
all times most zealous, performing it with constancy, and
never quitting it until it becomes inconsistent with your
honour, which I feel assured it never will be. And further,
be ready to display your devotion in a befitting manner;
and should his Majesty take the field in person, fail not
to be there also, and to identify yourself with him, from
which you cannot fail to derive great reputation: remember
also, to treat all Spaniards with amiable courtesy. With
other sovereigns and princes cultivate the most friendly
terms, obliging them when opportunity offers, especially
neighbouring powers.
"Maintain towards all, sincerity and truth with mildness;
but beware of being deluded, and for this purpose be slow
to credit any one.
"When called upon to form any important resolution, examine
both sides of the question, and attach yourself to that
which seems safest.
"Remember that you leave not for the morrow what can be
done on the instant; and so will your affairs generally
succeed according to your wishes. When just, your
undertakings will ever be forwarded and directed by the
Almighty; and thus will the labour be less to yourself than
if they are allowed to go on accumulating.
"In the government of your subjects and dependants be most
decided; to your associates and well-wishers be gracious
and pleasing; towards others just and strict.
"At the hour most convenient to yourself give daily
audience to all who seek it, hearing them patiently and
without interruption, and tolerating them even while
trifling a little. Leave the judges free from interference
in the lawful execution of their duties, dispensing mercy
where it is justly merited, and reluctant to the punishment
of death. In all but aggravated cases, commute it into
a minor penalty, especially by sending culprits to the
Venetian galleys, since this is an old usage in our family,
and as these protect our seas from pirates.
"Choose for your service faithful and prudent nobles,
neither selfish, greedy, nor partial.
"See that your ministers and counsellors be men who, as the
proverb goes, take the cart road, and boast not themselves
inventors of new theories, which, however specious and
fine at first sight, are most difficult in practice, and
in their issue full of mischief. Show no favour towards
rash ventures or novel expedients, but give your attention
rather to forward measures that have been determined on. Be
not anxious to make many new laws, but, on the contrary,
endeavour to condense the old ones.
"Encourage not your relations to meddle in the affairs of
your government, lest they should in consequence arrogate
to themselves undue influence; but contrive to keep them in
good humour by honouring them yourself, and by taking care
that others respect them.
"Visit in person, annually, your whole state; or, when
prevented from doing so, send one of your judges.
"Be courteous to ecclesiastical dignitaries, giving them
such honours as are their due, and exacting the like in
return.
"See that your household be discreet and in nowise
quarrelsome, and divide annually among the most deserving
of them some donative from escheated property; but I
recommend you to keep hold of all castles, and never
alienate them, unless to those who have done you some
signal and most important service.
"Be liberal in your expenditure, but never exceed your
revenues, managing so that every year you may have
something in hand; for if you do not attend to this, you
will probably find yourself tempted by necessity to seize
upon what belongs to your subjects,--a thing you must ever
guard yourself from, as well as from any attempts upon the
honour of their wives, especially those of the nobility.
"Be to all benignant and affable, entering freely into
conversation with men of letters or military acquirements,
and, above all, with those skilled in politics and affairs
of state.
"Do not be too anxious to devote yourself to scientific
studies, which both preoccupy the mind from more important
subjects, and sadden it. Be satisfied with a thorough
knowledge of your native tongue, so as to read in it all
old and modern histories, and at fit times some devotional
book; but trust to acquiring knowledge of the sciences
from the discourse of their respective professors. It
is advisable to learn other languages; indeed, Spanish
is necessary, as you are in the service of his Catholic
Majesty.
"Practise all healthful exercises, especially, ball,
hunting, and the manège. In the first of these you may
indulge almost daily; for the second, once a week is
sufficient, as it loses the entire day, and when too
frequently followed is apt to render one coarse. Make
use of the third when you feel inclined, maintaining a
small breeding stud, for which your country is admirably
adapted, with about thirty fine horses always at your
disposal. I warn you, however, not to over-exert yourself
in this or similar exercise, for excessive fatigue brings
on many infirmities, as has happened to myself. Fencing
is likewise most needful, especially that called wide
fighting, for close-quarters are dangerous, and of little
real avail. Instrumental music and singing are excellent
recreations, as well as dancing to give the body freedom.
Swimming is also an excellent preservative, especially in
travelling.
"Do not indulge too much in sleeping. Eat and drink of
everything indifferently, without reference to diet such
as is recommended by physicians, of whom keep aloof while
you can, never calling them in until you are ill; but when
really so, obey them strictly, committing yourself first to
God, and secondly to their skill.
"Remember, as soon as convenient, to complete your
marriage with the sister of the Grand Duke of Tuscany;
for no alliance could be found better or more entirely
suitable for this state, for our house, or for yourself.
To her, as your wife, be ever most affectionate; yet see
that she meddle not in the affairs of government, but
more particularly that she does not interfere in matters
regarding the administration of justice. Endeavour always
to maintain a most friendly footing with her family, paying
to the Grand Duke the deference due to a father, and
consulting him on every incident of importance.
"Should God grant you more than one son, purchase for one
of them a fief, however small, in the kingdom of Naples,
and other property, yielding in all 12,000 scudi of
revenue, but give him no lands in your own state: by this
means you will found a second house, and avert the danger
in which our family was at the time of your birth. Your
other sons you may provide for by making one a churchman
with the Pope's assistance, and by giving to the rest such
savings as will in that case be very requisite. Forget not
to treat your eldest son like a brother, admitting him to
share with you the government and administration, which, if
God grant me life, I shall certainly do towards you.
"Lastly, I assure you, that those who have been faithful
and attached to me will, if you avail yourself of their
services, be the same to you; others you may seek to attach
to you, but abandon not these.
"Such is the little I would impress upon you, not without
difficulty and much consideration; but take courage,
and the execution of it will become easy. I give you my
paternal benediction, praying the blessed God to confirm
it."[99]
[Footnote 99: Bibl. Oliveriana.]
But though it seems agreed that the seed thus kindly and carefully
sown fell upon a soil not naturally ungenial, and though to much
childish beauty the Prince is stated to have joined a fine temper,
a remarkably quick apprehension, and an uncommon memory, he was
destined sadly to verify a remark of Dante, that,--
"Rarely into the branches of the tree
Doth human worth mount up."
The good fruit of almost spontaneous growth was speedily and entirely
choked by rank weeds, fostered under an erroneous system of early
discipline. An only child, he was deprived of playmates of his own
rank, and even of the companionship of the higher nobility, for whom
were substituted those whose flattery and indulgence provoked and
pandered to all the worst passions of a spoiled brat; and so early
and fatally was this perversion effected, that he had scarcely passed
the years of infancy ere the people, who had hailed him as a gift of
Heaven, ominously deprecated his accession to power. On his eighth
birthday, he was sent by the Duke, with a suitable attendance, to
pay his vows at the shrine of his patron saint in the cathedral of
Gubbio, and to offer there a small bust of himself chased in gold.
On this occasion the aged courtiers, who assembled to do honour to
his reception, were heard to draw the most melancholy forebodings, on
observing the overbearing and fiery temper which he was at no pains
to control or conceal.[*100]
[Footnote *100: Cf. PELLEGRINI, _op. cit._, in _Boll. cit._ vol.
_cit._, p. 509 _et seq._ who gives two contemporary accounts of the
visit of Federigo in 1618.]