with 40000 men, and hath taken in New Seuns, about some 15.
miles from Kign, but how true we know not. Its absolutely
reported here the [unr] intend to assist this Town, as [unr]
it were one of their own Members; for that purpose (they say
here) the Holland fleet is come into this Road. I am informed
good conditions have been lately offered this own, but
they are loth to trust the Swedes; alledging several instances
of breach of promise. Now the cause of us English Merchants
inhabiting here in this Town which we have defended
so long is come to conclusion; that we English must either
swear, pay taxes, and serve in person as the Hollanders do, or
else we must depart this place by the 15. instant, which is a
very short warning to dispose of our affairs, break up housekeeping,
and depart; but I hope we shall be introduced again,
these troubles being over, in better condition then now we
are upon.
From Charenton July 19. S. N.
Our great losse before Valenchienne is confirmed. The Spaniard
made frequent shews, as if he would fall upon the quarter
of Marshal Turein and the Lorainers, but in conclusion
they fell to it in good earnest upon Marshal de la Ferte[unr] quarter,
which till then had been unmolested. They came resolutely
on, and yet had three or four Repulses given them, out
French making notable resistance, and afterwards when the
Enemy fell in among them, they fought it out so far, that of
the Count du Plessis his Regiment; which were 1200 compleat,
there remained but 30. men. La Ferte himself receiving
a would in the thigh is taken Prisoner; the Marquis d
Estree is slain, and his brother the Count taken prisoner, besides
the many Marquises; Counts, and other noble persons,
and Officers killed or taken. The whole Regiments of La
Ferts, and Piedmont ten Companies of the Kings Guards,
and the Cardinals Guards, with La Fertes Dragoons also,
which were 800. and his Regiment of Horse 1000. were all
cut in pieces. Add to these the Switzer Regiments, of whom
300 escaped the sword, being drowned by the water coming
into their Trteches at the sudden opening of the sluces; which