Pagina 14 van 310

But let us turn to France and inquire whether she has done any of

the things mentioned. I will speak of Louis[3] (and not of

Charles)[4] as the one whose conduct is the better to be

observed, he having held possession of Italy for the longest

period; and you will see that he has done the opposite to those

things which ought to be done to retain a state composed of

divers elements.

[3] Louis XII, King of France, "The Father of the People," born

1462, died 1515.

[4] Charles VIII, King of France, born 1470, died 1498.