King and Country - Gameplay Thread

[Dereich]

The Most Original Spanish-Ottoman Treaty Ever That is Totally Not Just a Tweaked Version of Another Treaty Template and Any Suggestion to the Contrary is Scandalous LibelSlander

I. Each signatory agrees to in every way respect those merchants of the other party, to not unnecessarily delay or burden them in their travels, and in general to entrust them with those same rights afforded his own merchants.

II. Each signatory agrees to not level any fees or taxes on the docking of trading and commercial vessels in his harbors beyond those levied upon his own vessels.

III. Each signatory declares the other to be a favored nation for the purposes of trade, and shall levy tariffs on goods no higher than 5% below the existing tariff rate for any other great power.

IV. Each signatory swears to place an economic embargo on any realm that should launch an unprovoked attack on the other party. 

IV. The signatories shall allow each other's ships-of-the line to dock at each other's ports should either signatory face an unprovoked attack from a party not subject to this agreement.

X Sultan Mehmed IV

X Queen Mother Mariana, Regent for Charles II Hapsburg

[Donerail]

A DECLARATION
Unto the Nations of the World

That the Republic of the Seven United Netherlands hereby proclaims and guarantees the independence and freedom of the Sultanate of the Maldives, including the associated islands of Seychelles and Bassas de Chagos;
That any realm which declares war upon the Sultanate shall be considered to have declared war upon the United Provinces; and
That any efforts to manifest control by foreign powers in this realm, or to otherwise meddle in the internal politics of the Maldives, shall be considered an offense against the United Provinces.

[Donerail]

I. The Archduchy of Austria and the Republic of the Seven United Netherlands (hereafter, the signatories) agree to in every way respect those merchants of the other party and to not unnecessarily delay or burden them in their travels.
II. Each signatory declares the other to be a favored nation for the purposes of trade, and shall, within one year of the agreement of this treaty, reduce tariffs placed upon goods imported from the other nation by one-half.
III. The Dutch Republic shall establish trading consulates in Trieste, Vienna, Prague, Pressburg, and Breslau, while the Habsburg Monarchy shall establish consulates in the Hague, Amsterdam, Arnhem, and Rotterdam.
IV. These consulates shall allow for merchants from that country to export and import products, and they shall only be assigned two-thirds of the established rate of tariff.
V. Austrian merchants shall be permitted to become shareholders in the United East India Company and the Chartered West India Company, so long as they conduct their operation through established trade consulates.

xJohan de Witt, Councillor-Pensionary of Holland

[Donerail]

I. Recognizing the importance of peace and concord between the realms of Europe, the Dutch Republic, the Electorate of Bavaria, the Twin Kingdoms of Denmark and Norway, and the Electorate of Brandenburg agree that none of the parties shall engage in military action against one another.
II. The parties to this treaty shall, in addition, not provide support to any other realm that takes aggressive action against any other treaty party.
III. The parties agree to respect the merchants of all other parties, to entrust them with the rights afforded their own merchants, and to not level any fees or taxes on the docking of vessels in his harbors beyond those levied upon his own vessels.

xJohan de Witt, Councillor-Pensionary of Holland

[Orwell]

I. Recognizing the importance of peace and concord between the realms of Europe, the Dutch Republic, the Electorate of Bavaria, the Twin Kingdoms of Denmark and Norway, and the Electorate of Brandenburg agree that none of the parties shall engage in military action against one another.
II. The parties to this treaty shall, in addition, not provide support to any other realm that takes aggressive action against any other treaty party.
III. The parties agree to respect the merchants of all other parties, to entrust them with the rights afforded their own merchants, and to not level any fees or taxes on the docking of vessels in his harbors beyond those levied upon his own vessels.

xJohan de Witt, Councillor-Pensionary of Holland

xKing Frederick III of Denmark-Norway

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

I. Recognizing the importance of peace and concord between the realms of Europe, the Dutch Republic, the Electorate of Bavaria, the Twin Kingdoms of Denmark and Norway, and the Electorate of Brandenburg agree that none of the parties shall engage in military action against one another.
II. The parties to this treaty shall, in addition, not provide support to any other realm that takes aggressive action against any other treaty party.
III. The parties agree to respect the merchants of all other parties, to entrust them with the rights afforded their own merchants, and to not level any fees or taxes on the docking of vessels in his harbors beyond those levied upon his own vessels.

xJohan de Witt, Councillor-Pensionary of Holland

xKing Frederick III of Denmark-Norway

x Frederick Wilhelm

[Diabolical Materialism]

I. Recognizing the importance of peace and concord between the realms of Europe, the Dutch Republic, the Electorate of Bavaria, the Twin Kingdoms of Denmark and Norway, and the Electorate of Brandenburg agree that none of the parties shall engage in military action against one another.
II. The parties to this treaty shall, in addition, not provide support to any other realm that takes aggressive action against any other treaty party.
III. The parties agree to respect the merchants of all other parties, to entrust them with the rights afforded their own merchants, and to not level any fees or taxes on the docking of vessels in his harbors beyond those levied upon his own vessels.

xJohan de Witt, Councillor-Pensionary of Holland

xKing Frederick III of Denmark-Norway

x Frederick Wilhelm

x Elector Ferdinand Maria

[Kingpoleon]

Protestant Grand Council

By order of His Majesty, as Supreme Governor of the Church of England, in his duty as on consultation with the Bishops of the Church of England, we call for a grand council of all Protestant Churches. We invite Anglicans, Lutherans, Calvinists, Huguenots, Presbyterians, dissenters, Hussite Churches, Waldensians, and all others who stand in the grand tradition of the Protestant Faith, to attend an ecumenical Council in England to strive for the unity of the whole Church, and urge all to attend forthwith. It is time for the Protestant faith to stand united, under one banner.

[1978 New Wave skinny trousers]

End of Turn: 1670

Regent Peter of Portugal deposed by angry nobles!


(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

It was widely believed that the unpopular Portuguese Regent, Peter, would need to placate the nobility to secure his place on the throne. He had overthrown his older brother by claiming that he was insane, but many nobles doubted him. But Peter made no attempt to assuage the concerns of the nobility, ignoring them entirely. So it was that a cabal of nobles, with support from most of the military, determined that the Regent must go and the King be restored. Under cover of darkness, they sneaked into his chambers with a group of soldiers and arrested the shocked Regent. Soon, he was deported to the Azores and Alfonso VI brought back to the jubilation of the common people, who tended to see Alfonso as the rightful King. What effect, if any, this coup will have on Portugal’s domestic and foreign standing remains to be seen. Notably, Alfonso is thought to be more pro-French and less pro-English than his brother Peter.

Hungarian spies caught in Constantinople; Rebellion in Habsburg Hungary!


(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

Most Turks expected 1670, a year of non-aggression treaties and trade deals, to prove uneventful for the Ottoman Sultanate. Instead, the political establishment of the Empire was shaken to the core when a Hungarian spy ring was discovered in Constantinople. After being tipped off by a member-turned-informant within the spy ring, Turkish agents were alerted to the activities of a group of Hungarian nationals in the capital. They were found to be seeking access to Ottoman state documents related to the Principality of Transylvania, an Ottoman vassal state. As soon as they were discovered, the Hungarians were immediately arrested and subject to torture. Even under duress, however, the spies refused to reveal their intentions, or whether they had been paid by a foreign power or were acting on their own accord.

Turkey wasn't the only country to experience Hungarian troubles. In Habsburg Royal Hungary, Emperor Leopold I ordered the opening of Jesuit schools throughout the country, in order to begin a campaign of gradual re-Catholicization. The intrusion of Jesuits into Hungary, however, was not at all appreciated by Protestants. Initially, reports began to circulate of kuruc horsemen appearing throughout the countryside, kidnapping Jesuit ministers and burning down their schools. Soon, these isolated rural attacks morphed into an organized armed rebellion, which spread through both Hungary and Croatia. Heeding the calls of leading magnates, thousands of Hungarian and Croatian militiamen organized themselves into an "Army of God." Led by Fran Krsto Frankopan and Petar Zrinski, the army marched toward Pressburg, sure that a popular uprising would occur in the city when its denizens heard of their approach. However, the army soon received word from scouts further ahead that the city had remained calm in spite of their approach. Unsure of whether an assault on Pressburg would still be advisable, the army stopped their march just outside the city walls, halting their momentum. Even so, the army still retains thousands of motivated and zealous troops under its banner, and may still attempt to march on Pressburg, regardless of whether or not its citizens revolt in support of their cause.

Cossacks revolt in Russia!


(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

Civil unrest would also afflict the Russian Tsardom in the year 1670. Stenka Razin, a Cossack leader, began the year a fugitive, hunted down by Russian agents. Managing to elude their capture with the help of sympathetic locals, Razin raised a rebellious Cossack army along the Don, which he then led into an assault on Tsaritsyn. The Russian garrison there proved unable to defend the city, and was defeated in the ensuing battle. After this victory, Razin's forces sailed up the Volga on their way to Astrakhan. Unbeknownst to Razin, however, two Russian armies had recently formed in the area. As they neared Astrakhan, the Cossacks were suddenly set upon by the twin armies, losing a battle fought along the banks of the Volga. Razin's army began a hurried retreat, sailing back down the Volga to the safety of Tsaritsyn. They were pursued by the Russians, however, who managed to recapture all the territory along the Volga that had been taken by the Cossacks, and came close to reaching the Don. Razin ended the year with his weakened army in Tsaritsyn, controlling only the surrounding hinterland along the Don, and prepared his men for the inevitable Russian advance.

Denmark, the next great colonial power?


(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

King Frederick pursued an ambitious program of colonization in 1670, starting with the purchase of several Spanish islands. Trinidad, Isla de la Juventud, and Nueva Esparta were all purchased from the Spaniards, with an additional being garrison sent to reinforce the Danish island of St. Thomas. In the Danish Gold Coast, construction was begun on several new forts to complement the already existing forts of Frederiksborg and Osu Castle. However, construction on the new forts was slowed by heavy native resistance. A fleet was also sent from Tranquebar in Danish India to colonize the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which was done successfully. Another fleet was sent to colonize the Spice Islands. While the fleet reached its destination, it used up almost all of its supplies and is in dire need of support.

Devastating pirate attacks in the Caribbean met with swift Spanish response


(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

The lawless Caribbean Sea, home of pirates and fortune-seekers of every stripe, was witness to two devastating attacks on Spanish settlements in the year 1670. As is often the case with buccaneers, it is unclear whether the actions taken by Henry Morgan and Roche Braziliano were ordered by their respective governments or undertaken independently. Morgan's attack was the earlier of the two, and it involved a raid on Panama. Sailing south from Port Royal in Jamaica, Morgan's men disembarked near Panama and came upon the Spanish settlement there. After looting it and killing many of the Spanish garrison, Morgan's men hauled all the booty they could carry onto their ships and prepared to sail home, when they noticed a Spanish fleet of 40 ships looming in the distance. Having to break through the Spanish line that now surrounded their position, Morgan's fleet suffered a heavy bombardment before finally breaking free, with only a few ships of his surviving the wreckage. Morgan was lucky that the Spanish didn't pursue him as he made his way back to Jamaica, as the Spaniards were suddenly ordered east in response to reports of another pirate attack.

Roche Braziliano, after conferring with his crew, decided upon Cartagena as the destination for his next raid, and departed from Port Royal shortly after Henry Morgan had left for Panama. Braziliano's crew of Dutchmen, after landing off the coast of Colombia, descended upon Cartagena. The garrison in the city was quickly massacred by the pirates, and the Spanish captain of the guard beheaded. Then, the pirates proceeded to pillage the city of all its valuables, afterwards razing the entire settlement to the ground. The pirates boarded their ships and celebrated on the return voyage to Jamaica, but at about the halfway point between Colombia and Jamaica were suddenly intercepted by a 40-ship strong Spanish fleet. In the ensuing naval battle fought on the open sea, the Dutch managed to inflict heavy losses on the Spaniards, with the Spanish fleet suffering 8 sunken ships and the Dutch losing 5. However, the Dutch fleet was significantly smaller and, not wanting to lose any more ships, Braziliano ordered a retreat. His ships managed to elude the Spaniards and retired to Jamaica in good order.

Amidst general trade boom, the "great soberer" arrives in Europe


(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

In 1670, a massive boom in trade hit Europe. It is estimated that close to 10 different treaties regarding trade were signed between the nations of Europe. But the newly traded product that caused the most stir was undoubtedly the Turkish drink known as coffee. The beverage suddenly appeared in Berlin and instantly caused a sensation. No one could get enough of this new refreshment which, so unlike alcohol, seemed to sober oneself and increase alertness. The first coffeehouses opened in Berlin and, within the year, became a required meeting place for anyone with the pretension of being a learned man. The drink spread rapidly through Europe, first through Germany before reaching France and even England, and with it coffeehouses sprung up all along the way. The source of coffee's sudden appearance has some Europeans wondering, but most are too delighted by its effects to care.

Protestant Council opens in London, while Papal Conclave results in deadlock


(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

1670 saw the calling of a religious council by the King of England, intended to unite the Protestant churches into one ecclesiastical body. When the first session of the council opened in London, those attending included several Bishops from the Anglican church, leaders of the Presbyterian and Dissenter communities in England, representatives of the French Huguenots and of several of the Calvinist Swiss Cantons, as well as several Calvinist theologians from the Netherlands, who were not however serving as official representatives of the Dutch Reformed Church. The discussions hit a stumbling point early on, when disagreements arose over the use of iconography. The Dutch theologians railed against perceived idolatry in the Anglican Church, and, with the support of the Huguenots and Swiss Calvinists, demanded that for any unification of the churches to be possible, the Anglicans would have to abandon the liturgical elements present in their worship. This upset the English Bishops, who angrily rejected the "barbarous iconoclasm" demanded by the Dutch. All this served to embarrass the English Dissenter leaders, who had hoped that a show of unity by their Dutch co-religionists could convince the Anglican Bishops to limit the persecution they were subject to. By the end of 1670, the council had failed to move past the issue of iconography and was still locked in disagreement.

In the Catholic world, too, deadlock was ensuing at the highest levels of the Church. The Papal Conclave of 1670, which had begun the previous year, was heavily contested between the great Catholic powers, each of whom had cardinals loyal to their cause. One candidate, Pietro Vidoni, was backed by most of the Flying Squadron, a group of independent-minded cardinals. Another choice, Benedetto Odescalchi, was favored by the Spanish and Austrian cardinals. To stop Odescalchi's election, the French cardinals rallied around Vidoni, which caused an irresolvable deadlock. The cardinals voted time and again to try to break the tie, but each time the results turned out the same, with no one willing to change their vote.

Colonization expands as new nations try their hand at settlement


(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

Denmark was not the only nation to grow their colonial empire. Venice and the Ottomans, neither of which have colonies of their own, made their first pushes toward acquiring overseas settlements. The Venetians sent an expedition to southern Africa, successfully establishing a bridgehead in southern Angola. The Turks, too, looked to establishing a colony, and successfully did so on a previously unknown Spice Island, which to the shipmen seemed to have a massive coastline stretching on infinitely in either direction. However, the colony is most isolated and is in urgent need of support and reinforcements. The Dutch, already with a large colonial empire in the Indies, expanded their reach with the foundation of a new venture in Pulo Condore, provoking the ire of the native Vietnamese.

Safavids find success in invasion of the Bukhara Sultanate


(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

In 1670, Shah Suleiman ordered a major reorganization of the Persian armies, in preparation for an invasion. His target was the Khanate of Bukhara, which was taken by surprise when a Persian army crossed the border. The Persians, after defeating a small Bukharan force, captured several cities and have moved through Bukhara with little resistance.

[Donerail]

An Observation
From the desk of Johan de Witt, councillor-pensionary of Holland

The Sultanates of Ternate and Tidore, as well as the orang kaya of the Banda Islands, are military allies of the Seven United Netherlands. They are exclusive trading partners of the United East India Company for, among other goods, nutmeg, pepper, cloves, and cinnamon. Interruptions of other European nations into these relationships are unwelcome and inadvisable.

[PSOL]

A Proclamation
From the Court of Suleiman I, Shah of Persia from the Safavid Dynasty

By Allah’s will, we have been victorious in our exploits against the Khanate of Bukhara. While we can consolidate our holdings quite easy on the remainder of Emirs, Khans, and Chieftains of Central Asia, there are other less disruptive ways to go about this. We accept any and all tributes from the tribes of Central Asia, as well as the possibility of being our vassal. For supplying the Court of the Safavid dynasty with men and tributes on further campaigns, we will not dispose of the local rulers and only employ a limited amount of men to ensure the stability of our partnership against subversive forces inside and out of my domains. For more information, please contact my court in Tehran.

On other matters, anyone willing to fight for my court for a reasonable price of land and commercial lucratives in the East, please contact my court to be enlisted. We are looking for able horsemen and those skilled in the terrain of the East. We need approximately 30,000 men-at-arms for the ventures I have planned.

Now, on to foreign matters. Even though I have been more then willing to cooperate a deal that respects the commercial ties across the Indian Ocean, very few European powers have came to me with my expected fee. We will not be ignored any further, either the respective powers that are excluded from a trade deal pay the fee or we appropriate your trade ships without payment. Time is running out, and we have ways of enforcing such measures if it comes to it.

[1978 New Wave skinny trousers]

King and Country: The XVII Century

Turn II: 1671

Nations, Leaders, & Players:
Major Powers:

Kingdom of France: King Louis XIV (dkrolga)
Ottoman Empire: Sultan Mehmed IV (jdb)
Kingdom of England: King Charles II (Kingpoleon)
Archduchy of Austria: Emperor Leopold I (Spamage)
Kingdom of Spain: Queen Regent Mariana (Dereich)
United Provinces of the Netherlands: Grand Pensionary Johan de Witt (sjoycefla)
Kingdom of Denmark-Norway: King Frederick III (JacksonHitchcock)
Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth: King Michael I (S019)
Tsardom of Russia: Tsar Alexis I (YPestis25)
Brandenburg-Prussia: Elector Frederick William (King Saul)
Safavid Empire: Shah Suleiman I (PSOL)
Electorate of Bavaria: Elector Ferdinand Maria (SlamDunk)
Electorate of Saxony: Elector John George II (Last_Plantagenet)
Kingdom of Sweden: Queen Regent Hedwig Eleonora (TimTurner)

Economic Standings:
United Provinces of the Netherlands- Very Strong
Kingdom of France- Strong
Brandenburg-Prussia- Strong
Kingdom of England- Strong
Ottoman Empire- Strong
Archduchy of Austria- Moderate
Tsardom of Russia- Moderate
Kingdom of Denmark-Norway- Moderate
Safavid Empire- Moderate
Electorate of Bavaria- Moderate
Kingdom of Sweden- Moderate
Kingdom of Spain- Weak
Electorate of Saxony- Weak
Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth- Very Weak

Popularity:
King Louis XIV- Very High
King Frederick III- Very High
Elector Frederick William- High
King Charles II- High
Sultan Mehmed IV- High
Grand Pensionary Johan de Witt- High
Shah Suleiman I- High
Tsar Alexis I of Russia- Moderate
Queen Regent Mariana- Moderate
Emperor Leopold I- Moderate
Elector John George II- Moderate
Queen Regent Hedwig Eleonora- Moderate
King Michael I- Low
Elector Ferdinand Maria- Low

Kingdom of Spain:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Queen Regent Mariana, according to reports two shocking attacks have occurred against Spanish settlements in the Caribbean. The buccaneers Henry Morgan and Roche Braziliano have launched brutal attacks on Panama and Cartagena, respectively. The fleet you sent to the Caribbean was, thanks be to God, able to intercept the pirates, and dealt a severe blow to Morgan in particular. You only ordered the Caribbean fleet to remain for a short time, but perhaps it is worthwhile having them stay longer, considering the volatile situation. In addition, your advisers are urging you to demand that the English and Dutch governments rein in their privateers. How will you respond to the threat posed to Spanish colonies by pirates in the Caribbean?

-Across the Spanish Empire, there have been several notable developments which occurred in the last year. Expanded trade with the Ottomans has allowed for the importation of mercury, which has led to improvements in mining. Limited extra shipments of gold and silver have begun to arrive from America, but it will take time for the full effects to be seen. Your government has also sold three islands to the Danes, bringing in much-needed revenue. In the east, the Safavid Shah had the nerve to demand that Christian ships stay away from Persian trade routes, which has led to some tension with Persia. Meanwhile, in Aragon your elimination of trade barriers has caused some complaints, but nothing too severe. How will you manage your global empire in the coming year?

-The Papal Conclave in Rome ended last year in a deadlock, with the cardinals unable to choose between your candidate and the cardinal favored by the French. The Flying Squadron, a group of independent-minded cardinals, is mostly supportive of the French candidate. Therefore, to get Odalescalchi elected as Pope you may have to use bribery and even resort to persuasion, as remarkably the Flying Squadron seems somewhat interested in choosing the cardinal who would best serve the Church. How will you attempt to influence the Papal Conclave to choose a Pope favorable to Habsburg interests?

Kingdom of France:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-King Louis, rebellion has broken out in Habsburg Hungary by disaffected Protestants. While religiously you might be expected to favor the Emperor, it has long been French policy to take the side of Protestants when in conflict with the House of Austria. Now, many of your advisors are urging you to provide diplomatic, economic, and possibly even military support to the kurucs. However, doing so could come at the cost of angering the French clergy, as you would be taking the side of heretics against your fellow Catholics. Will you offer support to the Hungarian rebels, and if so what form will that support take?

-Within the last year, the voices at court calling for war with the Dutch have only increased. Led by your Secretary of War, the Marquis de Louvois, a majority of your advisers are now demanding that you use the large army at your disposal for the glory of France. Convinced that the honor of France has been stained by the ungrateful Dutch and their Triple Alliance, Louvois has even threatened to resign if you refuse to take action. A smaller party, led by the top diplomat Pomponne, has urged discretion and cautions that a Dutch war could provoke a wider European conflict, urging instead that if the army must be used, it would be better deployed against a smaller target like the Duchy of Lorraine while the Emperor is distracted in Hungary. Will you listen to Louvois or take the advice of Pomponne, who is increasingly being drowned out by the louder voice of the Marquis?

-Last year’s papal conclave ended in a deadlock, with neither your candidate nor the cardinal backed by the Habsburgs able to come out on top. It is likely that bribery will be necessary if you wish to see your candidate made Pope. Meanwhile, in New France your decision to allow the selling of alcohol, excepting the Lord’s Day, has garnered public approval and resulted in economic gains for the colony. However, there has also been a noted increase in public drunkenness, which has prompted complaints from the local Bishops. Will you reverse course on alcohol, or stick by your previous decision?

Kingdom of England:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-King Charles, thus far you have shown yourself to be a skilled parliamentary maneuverer. You have played the factions of Parliament off against one another, and have been able to increase your own power at their expense. However, the unpopularity of the Cabal Ministry and the Duke of Buckingham has increased in recent months, as other members of parliament have grumbled about perceived royal favoritism toward the Duke. In addition, the Protestant Council has gotten off to a rocky start, with the different representatives of each faith deadlocking over the issue of iconography. How will you run your domestic policy in the coming year?

-Henry Morgan has done it again. Last year, the Welsh buccaneer launched a violent raid against the Spanish in Panama, before being defeated by a large Spanish fleet as his men attempted to leave the island with treasure in tow. It is likely that the Queen Regent of Spain will be most indignant at this bloodshed, and may suspect that you had a part in ordering it. Will you attempt to appease the Spaniards and distance yourself from Morgan’s actions, or will you stand by the roguish privateer?

-The sudden elevation of Denmark-Norway as a large colonial power has come as a wholly unexpected surprise to your court. Many regions of English colonization such as the Caribbean, Ghana, and the East Indies are now home to Danish forts and settlements. This could certainly pose a threat to English overseas trade and cause great competition, as the Dutch colonies already have. How will you react and adjust to Denmark’s new colonial empire?

Electorate of Bavaria:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Elector Ferdinand Maria, the Prussian decision to sign an alliance with the Ottoman Empire has caused controversy within the Empire. Many princes have expressed their disapproval and reaffirmed their support for the Emperor, who recently made a proclamation warning against foreign interference in the Empire. As a leader of the Catholic party, you are expected to be especially strong in favoring the Emperor. How will you react to the Prusso-Turkish alliance?

-Your decision to establish conscription in your Electorate has caused backlash, as many Bavarians remain adamant against being drafted into the army. Your decision to modernize the army with foreign officers has also caused some anger, with some of your guardsmen heard grumbling about the court in Munich being under the influence of foreigners. Will you stand by your military reforms, even in the face of criticism?

-Across the border in the Habsburg lands, a Protestant revolt has erupted in Hungary. As a leading Catholic member of the Empire, some of your advisers are suggesting that you publicly declare your support for the Emperor. However, there has been a split at court on the issue, with some pro-French ministers stating that you should wait to see the French position on the rebellion, before following their line. How will you react to the kuruc uprising against the Emperor?

Electorate of Saxony:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Elector John George, your territory has yet to recover fully from the devastation of the 30 Years’ War. Entire towns were wiped out, and the economic damages of the war took a massive toll. As one of the most badly-hit regions of Germany, there is still much work to be done. Saxony must be rebuilt, and its coffers filled. How will you attempt to reconstruct your shattered Electorate?

-You remain at the head of the Corpus Evangelicorum, and thus are still the titular head of the Protestant party in Germany, but have in fact been surpassed by Brandenburg-Prussia. The upstart Hohenzollerns, with their Great Elector and their standing army, lead the most powerful Protestant state in Germany. Many Brandenburgers wish for you to relinquish your leadership of the Corpus, but this would represent a major blow to Saxon prestige. Additionally, the Prusso-Turkish alliance has caused anti-Prussian sentiment in the Empire, and many other princes wish to see you articulate a position on the issue. How will you deal with your Prussian rivals to the north?

-Within the Electorate, there is great strife between the pro-French and pro-Imperial factions at court. You have signed alliances with both the King of France and the Emperor in recent years, but for many at court that is not good enough. Most urge you to move closer to the Emperor, but others warn that doing so could move King Louis to cut off French subsidies, which are a major lifeline for the struggling Saxon economy. There is also the issue of the kuruc rebellion, which some of your advisers suggest you publicly back to prove yourself still worthy as the head of the Corpus Evangelicorum, while others caution against going against the Emperor at a time when many other princes have rallied around him. Another consideration is the Protestant Council, which opened in London last year. If you wish for your bishops to attend, they will likely need convincing. How will you balance relations with France and the Emperor, and what will your position be on the Protestant Council?

United Provinces of the Netherlands:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Grand Pensionary de Witt, last year a brutal raid on Cartagena was undertaken by Roche Braziliano, a buccaneer and Dutch native. In the process, he also significantly damaged a Spanish fleet in the Caribbean meant to ward off piracy. The Spaniards are likely to be outraged by this unprovoked violence, and may demand that you cease support for privateers. Will you accommodate Spain and condemn Braziliano’s raid, or choose to defend the pirate?

-There were several notable events occuring last year related to your colonial empire. For one, a successful recruitment drive was instituted, with many new settlers making the journey to start a new life overseas. You also succeeded in establishing a new colony in Pulo Condore, though the native Vietnamese reacted with anger. In addition, various East Indian powers granted you permission to establish new factories in major trading ports, but in many cases the size of such ports are to be limited. Another major colonial issue is the establishment of the new Danish empire, which contains many colonies near to yours in the Caribbean, Africa, and the East Indies; and for that reason could pose a threat to Dutch trade. How will you manage the Dutch colonial empire in the coming year?

-Diplomatically, there still remains much fear about French intentions regarding the Republic. Many Dutchmen are hopeful, however, that the new Spanish alliance, as well as the Central European Treaty of Friendship, will deter France from taking any aggressive actions. There is also the issue of the Protestant Council, which thus far has not received any official representatives of the Dutch Reformed Church, though several Dutch theologians have made their way to London on their own. What diplomatic course will you take, and will you choose to attend the Protestant Council?

Kingdom of Denmark-Norway:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-King Frederick, over the course of one year you have managed to turn Denmark-Norway into a formidable colonial power. You have purchased several islands from the Spaniards, and have managed to successfully settle the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. You’ve also begun construction on new Ghanian forts and have successfully sent an expedition to the Spice Islands, but both ventures have caused slight problems. On the Gold Coast, there has been significant native resistance to your new forts, and the colony on the Spice Islands lacks supplies and is in dire need of support. In somewhat unrelated news, the Free City of Bremen has also indicated their willingness to sign a trade agreement. How will you manage your new colonial empire, and will you seek to expand it further?

-Your colonial empire could also affect your diplomatic relations. England and the Netherlands already have many forts and settlements near yours, and may not take kindly to a new nation joining the fray and competing with their trade. In Ghana and India, for instance, the Dutch and English both have factories along the coastline. How will you conduct relations with England and the Netherlands, now that you are potentially colonial rivals?

-Last year, though you accepted the invitation of the English King to attend the Protestant Council, you did not end up sending any of your Bishops to London. This has likely caused confusion and perplexion among the English, so it would perhaps be sensible this year to speak to your Bishops about attending the conference. Some of them may require persuasion however, as not only is there likely skepticism to begin with about the feasibility of uniting the various Protestant faiths, but there are also initial reports coming back from the conference that are not overly positive. Will you attempt to convince your Bishops to attend the conference?

Kingdom of Sweden:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Queen Regent Hedwig Eleonora, you rule over Pomeranian territory in the Holy Roman Empire. This raises questions of sovereignty, and could threaten the territories. You have had strained relations with the Emperor ever since the end of the 30 Years’ War. Brandenburg, too, is a threat to your German possessions. How will you conduct relations with the Emperor and other states in the Empire so as to not endanger your holdings?

-In foreign policy, you have left your traditional French ally to form the Triple Alliance. With the French halted in Flanders, the usefulness of the alliance may be at an end. Perhaps you should try to reconcile with France, as new allies must be found to battle your many enemies. Denmark remains your greatest foe, and many suspect that the resentful Danes may try to recapture Scania. To the east, the Russian menace threatens Finland and the Baltics, greatly strengthened since their victory over the Poles. You’ve signed a non-aggression agreement, but it is not unheard of for such things to be violated. Additionally, there is the matter of the Protestant council, which you agreed to attend last year but did not send any of your bishops too. They will likely need convincing, as there is great skepticism about the idea of uniting Protestantism among the Swedish clergy. What foreign policy will you pursue to protect your northern empire?

-New Sweden was lost to the Dutch 15 years ago, and since then you have had no presence in the New World. Perhaps it is time to make a move. The Danes, under the enterprising King Frederick, last year built up a worldwide empire, though gave up their claims on Greenland, which some of your advisers point to as a target. Others have proposed taking back New Sweden, and even the West Indies have been mentioned as a possibility. Will you attempt to colonize the New World, or should focus remain on Northern European affairs?

Tsardom of Russia:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Tsar Alexis, though Stenka Razin escaped your capture and began a Cossack revolt, he now sits in a difficult position. Your armies have managed to corner him in Tsaritsyn, and with one final push on the city you may finally succeed in crushing the Cossacks. How will you deal with Razin and hopefully finish off the Cossacks once and for all?

-To the east, you have successfully pursued the continued colonization of Siberia. Fortifications have been strengthened and new settlements have been founded. One in particular, Komsomolsk-on-Amur, has provided you with a new link to China. How will you continue the process of Siberian expansion?

-In the past year, you signed non-aggression pacts and trade deals with your largest neighbors. Trade and lack of war could boost the Russian economy, but some of your advisers long for continued conquest and expansion. Most of your reign has been spent in wartime, but you now appear to be pursuing a policy of peace which, while perhaps not so popular with all the nobles, may be seen as a positive by commoners who wish for greater prosperity. How will you direct Russian foreign policy in the coming year?

[1978 New Wave skinny trousers]

Brandenburg-Prussia:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Elector Frederick William, you have succeeded in strengthening the economy of your realm over the past year. Many persecuted Protestants from Austria and the other Catholic states of the Empire have settled in your realm, adding much to the industry and prosperity of Brandenburg. Likewise, the introduction of coffee has proven to be a huge success, as evidenced by its rapid spread through Europe. With the economy now on more than sound footing, your advisers believe that the state could well afford new programs or projects. How will you use the full coffers of Brandenburg to the benefit of the state?

-The uprising of the kurucs in Hungary has attracted the attention of all Europe, and Brandenburg is no exception. Some advisers, seeing an opportunity, have urged you to declare your support for the rebels. As the second-most powerful state in the Empire, siding with the kurucs could cement your place as the leading representative of the German liberties in the Empire, especially if Saxony, the official head of the Corpus Evangelicorum, does nothing. Then there is the matter of the Protestant Council. Last year you declined the English King’s invitation to attend, but to show yourself as truly committed to the Protestant cause, it may be wiser to go after all. Will you risk the wrath of the Emperor and support the kurucs, and will you reconsider your stance on the Protestant Council?

-Your treaty of defense and cooperation with the Turkish Sultan has caused significant controversy. It was a bold move on your part, so openly flouting the Emperor’s proclamation against foreign interference in the Empire. Even those Protestant rulers less favorable to the Emperor are disturbed by your seeming embrace of the feared and hated Turks, enemies of all true Christians, Protestant and Catholic alike. After all, in the most recent Turkish war 7 years ago, even the members of the pro-French League of the Rhine contributed troops for the defense of Germany. How will you win back over those German princes distrustful of your Turkish alliance?

Archduchy of Austria:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Emperor Leopold, your decision to implement a program of re-Catholicization overseen by the Jesuits has sparked an open rebellion in Hungary. Under the leadership of two leading magnates, an “Army of God” has formed in opposition to your policies, drawing thousands of recruits. The rebel Army now sits outside Pressburg, putting the Hungarian capital under threat. General Montecuccoli of the Army of the Danube is confident that a decisive attack will crush the rebellion before it can grow any larger, and is itching to lead his troops into battle. What will you do in order to suppress the kurucs?

-The Elector of Brandenburg, in a seeming challenge to your authority, has openly signed a treaty of alliance with the Ottomans. This has garnered significant criticism of the Elector within the Empire, with many princes denouncing his decision and pledging to stand by your declaration against foreign interference in the Empire. Some zealous prince-bishops have even called on you to place the Elector under the Imperial ban, reasoning that the Turkish alliance is both a crime against Christianity and Germany. How will you deal with the defiant Elector of Brandenburg?

-The Papal Conclave has ended in a deadlock, meaning it will continue for a third year into 1671. To many observers, this conclave is the most important in recent memory, as it will effectively decide who has the leadership of the Catholic world. For centuries, the House of Habsburg has championed the Catholic cause and the fight against heresy throughout Europe. Now, however, many of your advisers fear that your position as the defender of the faith is slipping away to France. The French King’s power has risen precipitously in recent years, and he is now generally considered to be the most powerful man in Europe. Clearly, you must do all you can to make Odescalchi the next Pope, using all your powers of bribery and persuasion. How will you ensure a favorable result at the Papal Conclave?

Ottoman Empire:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Sultan Mehmed, Constantinople has been convulsed by the discovery of a Hungarian spy ring in the capital. Though they are known to have been seeking documents related to the Principality of Transylvania, their intentions remain unclear. There is also the disturbing possibility that the spies were hired by a foreign power, though even if so, who would have done so, and for what purpose? Clearly, a thorough investigation is needed to uncover the facts of this strange episode. How will you go about investigating this odd matter?

-Across the border in Hungary, Protestant kurucs have risen up against the Emperor in response to his use of Jesuits in a campaign of re-Catholicization. The Sultanate has long supported rebellious elements against the Austrians, and it would not be out of character to do so again. Some of your viziers have even suggested that the revolt could be used as justification to open another war against the Habsburgs, as much resentment still remains from the defeat in 1664. Will you give support to the kurucs, and will you consider intervening militarily on their behalf?

-Your colonial expedition to the Spice Islands landed successfully, but it is most isolated and in dire need of support and reinforcements. It would be a great embarrassment indeed for the first attempt at colonization to end in failure, so as much as possible must be done to save the settlement from disaster. How will you support the new colony on the Spice Islands?

Safavid Empire:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-Shah Suleiman, your declaration against Christian expansion and threats against the trade of European powers has caused a bit of a stir. The Spanish Queen Regent publicly refused to withdraw from trade in your sphere of power, causing some anger back at home in Persia. Will you stand by your threats toward the nations of Europe, or back down in order to defuse the situation?

-Your trade deals with the Georgians, Omanis, and Zaydis have resulted in an increased stream of revenue to the Empire. Your order to finish 20 ships by the end of last year, however, could not be completed successfully, with the builders only managing to field 2 ships. How will you continue the economic growth that your realm saw last year?

-Thus far, the invasion of the Khanate of Bukhara has gone well. The Bukharans were defeated in a minor battle, and several cities have been captured. Now, as your armies continue onward, there is a question of how much you wish to conquer. Do you wish to fully annex the Khanate into your realm, or let it survive and instead sign a favorable peace treaty with the Khan?

Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth:

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

-King Michael, your promise of an open election for the Commonwealth crown, once the country is safe from external threats, seems to have worked in appeasing the angry hetmans somewhat. Your decision to place a heavy military presence on the border has also succeeded in halting any external or internal conflict, for the time being. However, the large military presence has drained the Commonwealth’s low finances even further, and the country is in desperate need of money. How will you continue to keep the peace in the Commonwealth and protect it from threats both within and without?

-Last year, you ordered merchants to raise prices on goods in order to raise much-needed funds. While the measure has succeeded in bringing in some revenue, it has caused anger among Russian, Prussian, and Turkish merchants, who are now less willing to buy Polish products. Will you continue to order high prices, or lower them somewhat in order to keep trade flowing?

-Across the border in Hungary, angry Protestant kurucs have risen up against the Emperor after his introduction of Jesuit schools into the country. Some advisers have suggested that, should the Emperor agree, it might be worthwhile to send your troops into Hungary in order to quell the uprising. It would give your largely untested troops vital battle experience, and assisting the Emperor in his time of need could mean that should Poland face trouble, the Emperor could return the favor. On the other hand, sending the armies out of the Commonwealth could increase disorder in the country, encouraging the hetmans to rise up in revolt. Will you consider helping the Emperor in crushing the kuruc uprising?

Armies, Navies, and Locations

Kingdom of Spain
80,000 Men. 25,000 in Army of Iberia, 25,000 in Army of Flanders, 15,000 in Army of Lombardy, 15,000 in Army of Naples
(Can raise 31,000 more)
92 Ships of the Line

Kingdom of France
100,000 Men. 25,000 in Army of the Pyrenees, 50,000 in Army of Wallonia, 25,000 in Army of the Rhine
(Can raise 103,000 more)
105 Ships of the Line

Kingdom of England
5,000 Men in Army of England.
(Can raise 10,000 more)
100 Ships of the Line

Electorate of Bavaria
0 Men.
(can raise 12,500 more)
0 Ships of the Line

Electorate of Saxony
0 Men.
(can raise 10,000 more)
0 Ships of the Line

United Provinces of the Netherlands
50,000 Men in Dutch States Army.
(Can raise 42,000 more)
120 Ships of the Line

Kingdom of Denmark-Norway
25,000 Men. 15,000 in Army of Denmark, 5,000 in Army of Norway, 2,000 in Army of the Caribbean, 2,000 in Army of Ghana, 1,000 in Army of India
(Can raise 11,000 more)
35 Ships of the line

Kingdom of Sweden
35,000 Men. 10,000 in Army of Sweden, 5,000 in Army of Pomerania, 10,000 in Army of the Baltic,
10,000 in Army of Finland
(Can raise 35,500 more)
35 Ships of the Line

Tsardom of Russia
72,500 Men. 15,000 in Army of Ruthenia, 15,000 in Army of Smolensk, 5,000 in Army of Siberia, 15,000 in Army of Kola, 13,500 in Army of Volga, 9,000 on Army of Astrakhan.
(Can raise 3,000 more)
0 Ships of the Line

Brandenburg-Prussia
10,000 Men. 7,500 in Army of Brandenburg, 2,500 in Army of Prussia
(Can raise 22,000 more)
15 Ships of the Line

Archduchy of Austria
50,000 Men. 25,000 in Army of the Danube, 25,000 in Army of Germany
(Can raise 47,000 more)
0 Ships of the Line

Ottoman Empire
60,000 Men. 25,000 in Army of the Danube, 10,000 in Army of Mesopotamia, 15,000 in Army of the Caucasus, 10,000 in Army of North Africa
(Can raise 67,000 more)
75 Ships of the Line

Safavid Empire
80,000 Men. 17,500 in Army of Ahvaz, 17,500 in Army of Bandar Abbas, 10,000 in Army of the Helmand, 10,000 in Army of Bukhara, 22,500 in Army of the Caucasus, 2,500 in Army of Oman
(can raise 3,000 more)
2 Ships of the Line

Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth
40,000 Men. 25,000 in Army of Poland, 15,000 in Army of Lithuania
(Can raise 20,000 more)
0 Ships of the Line

[Chancellor Tanterterg]

The Treaty of Vienna

1. The Most Exalted Ottoman Empire and the Austrian Empire shall not engage in any act of armed aggression against each other within their current borders or those their current, recognized vassals in for the next four years.  

2. In four years, the first provision of this treaty shall be revisited and either extended by mutual agreement of both parties or terminated.

3. The present border between the Most Exalted Ottoman Empire and the Austrian Empire is formally recognized.  

4. Armed conflict between the parties on the soil of a state that is neither party to this agreement nor a vassal of one of the parties shall not constitute a violation of this treaty, provided said conflict does not spread - through a deliberate act by one of the parties - to the borders of the parties to this treaty and/or their current vassals.  

Sultan Mehmed IV

[Donerail]

Notes from the desk of Johan de Witt
As the councillor-pensionary of Holland, I am but a mere civil servant of the Republic. I am not a priest or scholar, and there is little reason to regard me an expert in theology. While I certainly hold to my particular beliefs, influenced by the theological writings of Holland's own Jakob Hermanszoon, I would not dream to assert my own faith as the sole permissible interpretation of the word of God; to do so would be to put myself dangerously close to naming myself his equal, when I am but one of his many humble servants. Theologians and scholars flock to the Netherlands precisely because of this reason—we respect the views of learned writers like Hermanszoon, Zwingli, and Calvin, even as we subject their words to the strictest scrutiny. It is through this process, many minds uncovering small pieces of a truth, that we might move along the path that God has set out before us, slowly yet inexorably drawn to the Truth of the Lord.

Which brings me now to the contentious conference held by the Anglican Church, and the issues that waylaid it from reaching a greater understanding between our churches. For does not First Epistle of John command us to "keep yourselves from idols"? This, it seems to me, to be a clear command that should guide our worship. And yet does not God Himself command the creation of the cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant, and the images of the angels woven in the curtain of the Tabernacle? Such are the examples cited by our Anglican brethren.

This struggle has waylaid this conference—but this is no great matter. Smaller questions have befuddled theologans for centuries. God did not hand down the Bible to be read with ease by all men. The journey of faith requires contemplation and struggle, so that we might begin to comprehend the glory and awe of the Lord our God. It is this climate, bound by the rule of our Christian faith, but with the freedom of academic debate and continual questing toward the Truth of God, that God may smile upon these Netherlands, and lead us forward into the everlasting glory of His eternal light.

[Spamage]

The Treaty of Vienna

1. The Most Exalted Ottoman Empire and the Austrian Empire shall not engage in any act of armed aggression against each other within their current borders or those their current, recognized vassals in for the next four years.  

2. In four years, the first provision of this treaty shall be revisited and either extended by mutual agreement of both parties or terminated.

3. The present border between the Most Exalted Ottoman Empire and the Austrian Empire is formally recognized.  

4. Armed conflict between the parties on the soil of a state that is neither party to this agreement nor a vassal of one of the parties shall not constitute a violation of this treaty, provided said conflict does not spread - through a deliberate act by one of the parties - to the borders of the parties to this treaty and/or their current vassals.  

Sultan Mehmed IV

X- Emperor Leopold von Habsburg

[PSOL]

A Joyous Proclamation as the Shah has gained another Friendship

The Circassians and my Court have come to a momentous partnership of commerce and mutual understanding. The Circassian land is under my protection as we have signed a defense agreement. Any foreign offenses against the Circassians shall be met with swift retribution by my army. I am also joyous that they have agreed to lease a contingent of troops in my campaign in the East.

It is clear from my willingness to promote commerce that we mean no harm against those who put down the sword for the rial. I welcome that the tribes to the East learn that it is better to come to us for agreements of trade and mutual defense. May this agreement last as long as Allah wills it.

[Spamage]

I. The Archduchy of Austria and the Republic of the Seven United Netherlands (hereafter, the signatories) agree to in every way respect those merchants of the other party and to not unnecessarily delay or burden them in their travels.
II. Each signatory declares the other to be a favored nation for the purposes of trade, and shall, within one year of the agreement of this treaty, reduce tariffs placed upon goods imported from the other nation by one-half.
III. The Dutch Republic shall establish trading consulates in Trieste, Vienna, Prague, Pressburg, and Breslau, while the Habsburg Monarchy shall establish consulates in the Hague, Amsterdam, Arnhem, and Rotterdam.
IV. These consulates shall allow for merchants from that country to export and import products, and they shall only be assigned two-thirds of the established rate of tariff.
V. Austrian merchants shall be permitted to become shareholders in the United East India Company and the Chartered West India Company, so long as they conduct their operation through established trade consulates.

xJohan de Witt, Councillor-Pensionary of Holland

X- Emperor Leopold von Habsburg

[Kingpoleon]

A Proclamation from His Majesty Regarding Certain Prisoners

In our review of certain prisoners and imprisonment, we have found it undesirable, unnecessary, and untenable to hold under our name these certain ministers of God, lately called nonconformists for their rejection of the Savoy Conference. Chiefly, Margaret Fell is recognized as a speaker for those called Quakers and is not to be arrested for her activities as a Quaker, nor is her husband, George Fox, to be intimated or arrested by any men of law for ministering; John Bunyan is to be released forthwith and similarly shall not be arrested on these charges again. They are granted a pardon and a royal indulgence as ministers, so that they may not be brought to court on charges like this again.

[Orwell]

A DECLARATION
Unto the Nations of the World

That the Kingdom of Denmark-Norway hereby proclaims and guarantees the independence and freedom of the Duchies of Mecklenburg, Brunswick-Luneberg, and the Sultanate of Aceh Sultanate3.
That any realm which declares war upon the Duchies or Sultanate shall be considered to have declared war upon the Kingdom of Denmark-Norway; and
That any efforts to manifest control by foreign powers in this realm, or to otherwise meddle in the internal politics of the Duchies or Sultanate, shall be considered an offense against the Kingdom of Denmark Norway.

[PSOL]

A Direct Order
Establishing a Toll Zone in the Indian Ocean

That the Partnership between the Kingdom of Muscat and the Expansive Realm of Iran shall establish a toll zone in the Indian Ocean for the purpose of issuing proper legal enforcement on the seafaring trade routes on those who have not given a 20% fee on each transaction. To pay such transactions, dock at the port of Muscat to have the items viewed and appropriately analyzed. The Ships flagged as belonging to the Sublime Port and Tsardom of Russia are exempt from this arrangement.

 The order shall operate indefinitely . Failure to obey by this guidance shall lead to appropriation of the items, payments, and means of transport in question without compensation. To initiate negotiations of these terms, please send an envoy to the court of the Safavids located in Esfahan.

We also will not stand local trading partners who align with these European powers. Harsh penalties shall be applied to them mirroring the European powers. Sanctions and embargoes shall be used as a maximum pressure if they continue to trade with these powers.



https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piracy_in_the_21st_century#/media/File:Somalian_Piracy_Threat_Map_2010.png

[Donerail]

The Republic of the Seven United Netherlands does not acknowledge Safavid sovereignty over the Indian Ocean, rejects any suggestion that our fleets should pay taxes, and will fire upon any Persian ship that attempts to enforce these ludicrous decrees.

[Kingpoleon]

The Kingdom of England orders these ridiculous demands to be returned at once. They are antithetical to the welfare of our prestigious merchants and world-renowned sailors. We similarly advise the Safavids to withdraw these demands, as any enforcement of them may be taken as an act of war via violence against protected citizens of England.

[Orwell]

The Kingdom of Denmark-Norway demands the Safavids withdraw these laughable demands, and any attacks against the Kingdom or her subjects will be met with the furthest extent of the Kingdom's power.

[Kingpoleon]

A Royal Proclamation

In recognition of his services rendered unto the Crown, his Royal Descent directly, if illegitimately, from Henry II, through John of Gaunt’s son John Beaufort, and thus distant Kin of the King, Henry, Lord Herbert and Somerset, is made the first Duke of Beaufort. This by order of His Royal Majesty, Charles II.