From Brussels, the 8 of January, stilo novo.
God be thanked, the defeat of the Spaniards is found not to
be so great, as was at first blazed abroad by the French, who
lost no less blood on the place; and that not of the worst sort,
but of the best. Two days ago, the Mareshal of Turenne arrived
at Nonmedy is good health: after he had gathered his
dispersed Troops at Bar le duc, he found not many missing of
his Horse which he had before the Fight; who are sent to their
Winter-Quarters: and of some Regiments, not one Officer is
wanting. All the misfortune is that the said Mareshal's designes
are disappointed for this time. The Dutchess of Longueville is
daily expected at the said Town of Nonmedy.
The Letters from Madrid, dated the 9 of the last month, advise
us of the surrendering of the Town of Tortosa, and the Governour
Monsieur de Launay his marching out of it on the fifth
of the said month, with about 1400 men. The French did
endeavour to relieve the said place two days before it was yeelded,
with four good Ships well manned; which the Duke of
Albukerque seized upon by the way. The said Letters further
advise us, that the Conception of the Queen is gone so far, that
she hath several times felt it move within her: which hath caused
no little joy thorow the whole Kingdom; being full of hopes
that it will please God to send her a Son and Heir to the Crown.
The Governour of Rhetel, who is charged with the misfortune
that did befall the Mareschall of Turenne, because he kept
not the Town as many days as he did promise, is brought to this
Town of Brussels, where he is accused by the said Mareschall;
for which, it is supposed, he will goe nigh to suffer. The Prince
of Luigny, who was taken in the battail of Lens having greed
for his ransome in France, is now set at liberty, and arrived in
these parts.
From Liege we are advised, that the Elector is yet there, but
as yet hath made no agreement with the Gentry, who will have
the Cittadell demolished, and before that be done, they are resolved
not to be quiet: In the mean time they expect some Lorain
Regiments to joyn with them, in case the Elector will not
grant them their request.