CHAPTER XIX.

Intervention of the Kings of France in Italy--Policy of Henri II., Henri IV., and Louis XIII.--Judicious Conduct of Richelieu--Treaty of Cherasco--Menacing Ambition of Louis XIV.--Situation of the Court of Savoy on the Death of Charles-Emmanuel--Portrait of Charles IV., Duke of Mantua--The Marquisate of Montferrat and Casale--The Count Matthioly--His political Career--His Character--The Abbé d’Estrades and Giuliani--Proposal to cede Casale to Louis XIV.--Interview at Venice between Charles IV. and the Abbé d’Estrades--Journey of Matthioly to Versailles--He communicates the Project formed to the Enemies of France--How is his Conduct to be estimated? 251