CHAPTER XXXV.

Negotiations between France and Spain—­Conclusion of the treaty of peace—­Purchase of the allegiance of the French nobles—­Transfer of the Netherlands to Albert and Isabella—­Marriage of the Infante and the Infanta—­Illness of Philip ii.—­Horrible nature of his malady—­ His last hours and death—­Review of his reign—­Extent of the Spanish dominions—­Causes of the greatness of Spain, and of its downfall—­ Philip’s wars and their expenses—­The Crown revenues of Spain—­ Character of the people—­Their inordinate self-esteem—­Consequent deficiency of labour—­Ecclesiastical Government—­Revenues of the Church—­Characteristics of the Spanish clergy—­Foreign commerce of Spain—­Governmental system of Philip ii.—­Founded on the popular ignorance and superstition—­Extinction of liberty in Spain—­The Holy Inquisition—­The work and character of Philip.

While the utterly barren conferences had been going on at Angiers and Nantes between Henry iv. and the republican envoys, the negotiations had been proceeding at Vervins.

President Richardot on behalf of Spain, and Secretary of State Villeroy as commissioner of Henry, were the chief negotiators.

Two old acquaintances, two ancient Leaguers, two bitter haters of Protestants and rebels, two thorough adepts in diplomatic chicane, they went into this contest like gladiators who thoroughly understood and respected each other’s skill.

Richardot was recognized by all as the sharpest and most unscrupulous politician in the obedient Netherlands.  Villeroy had conducted every intrigue of France during a whole generation of mankind.  They scarcely did more than measure swords and test each other’s objects, before arriving at a conviction as to the inevitable result of the encounter.

It was obvious at once to Villeroy that Philip was determined to make peace with France in order that the triple alliance might be broken up.  It was also known to the French diplomatist that the Spanish king was ready for, almost every concession to Henry, in order that this object might be accomplished.

All that Richardot hoped to save out of the various conquests made by Spain over France was Calais.

But Villeroy told him that it was useless to say a word on that subject.  His king insisted on the restoration of the place.  Otherwise he would make no peace.  It was enough, he said, that his Majesty said nothing about Navarre.

Richardot urged that at the time when the English had conquered Calais it had belonged to Artois, not to France.  It was no more than equitable, then, that it should be retained by its original proprietor.

The general of the Franciscans, who acted as a kind of umpire in the transactions, then took each negotiator separately aside and whispered in his ear.

Villeroy shook his head, and said he had given his ultimatum.  Richardot acknowledged that he had something in reserve, upon which the monk said that it was time to make it known.