OF THE STATE OF EUROPE. 437 



city, and the goodliest haven in Italy, until it was 

 destroyed by the Genevois ; the which now make no 

 profession but of merchandise. 



There is a dangerous faction amongst them, 

 between the ancient houses and the new, which were 

 admitted into the ancient families. 



St. George is their treasure-house and receiver, 

 as at Venice St. Mark. 



Venice retaining still the ancient form of govern 

 ment, is always for itself in like estate and all one ; 

 at this time between the Turk and the King of Spain, 

 in continual watch, seeming to make more account 

 of France, so much in hope of any great affiance at 

 this present to be had in him, but for the reputation 

 of that nation, and the amity always they have had 

 with the same, and behoving them so to do. They 

 use it with good foresight and speedy preventing, 

 sparing for no charge to meet as they may with 

 every accident. Of late they have had some jar 

 with the pope, as well about the inquisition as title 

 of land. With Ferrara and the Venetians is ancient 

 enmity, specially because he receiveth all their ba 

 nished and fugitives. They make most account of 

 the Duke of Savoy amongst the Princes of Italy. 

 They maintain divers ambassadors abroad, with the 

 Turk, the emperor, France, Spain, and at Rome ; 

 with them is an ambassador of France and Savoy 

 always resident, and an agent of Spain, because they 

 gave the preseance to France. 



In this it seemeth all the potentates of Italy do 

 agree to let all private grudges give place to foreign 



