St. Germain, May 10, 1679.
Yourletter, Sir, of the 22d of last month serves still more to confirm the treachery of the Count Matthioli, of which we had even before had too many proofs. He was, in fact, arrived in Piedmont, and had seen the Abbé d’Estrades. It is impossible to conceive the insolence of his daring to show himself, at a moment when all Italy rings with his perfidy. However, it is to be wished that he should deliver up the ratification of the Duke of Mantua, if it is true, as that Prince states, that he has still got it in his hands; If the Sieur Tarani283has more fidelity than him, it would be desirable he should have the confidence of his master, and should dispose him to satisfy His Majesty, by showing him that it is dangerous to break promises which have been so solemnly made tohim. ∗ ∗ ∗
I am, &c.Pomponne.284
283This probably is a mistake for Varano, whose name has been frequently mentioned in the former part of this correspondence.
284From the Archives of the Office for Foreign Affairs, at Paris.