CHAPTER XLIV

The autobiography of Duke Francesco Maria II. 129

1549. Feb. 20. His birth and education 130

1565. He goes to Spain by Genoa 131

1568. His account of Don Carlos's imprisonment 133

" Jul. 11. His return home by Milan 134

" His studious habits 135

1571. Jan. His marriage to Lucrezia d'Este announced by himself 135

" " Early coldness 136

" " Congratulatory letters on the occasion 137

" Protestant doctrines at Ferrara 139

" He joins the Turkish expedition 139

" His account of the sea-fight at Lepanto 140

1574. Sep. 28. He succeeds to the dukedom 142

" Ceremonial of his investiture 142

" Letter of advice from Girolamo Muzio 144

" The difficulties of his position 149

" Overcome by prudence and moderation 149

" A conspiracy against him discovered 150