CHAPTER X.

THE CALM BEFORE THE STORM.

[August, 1570, to August, 1572.]

Albert and Pierre de Gondi, Birague, Strozzi, Nevers, and Henry of Guise--Marriage of Charles IX.--Nuptial Festivities at Paris--Embassy of the German Princes--Violent Sermons--Outrages at Orange and Rouen--Objects of the Politiques--Revolt in Flanders--Position of Affairs--Interview between the King and Prince Louis of Nassau--Spanish Threats--Coligny’s Marriage--The Admiral goes to Blois--Conferences with the King--Proposed Marriage of Henry and Margaret--Murder of Lignerolles--The Gastine Cross--Queen of Navarre at Blois--Alessandrino’s Special Embassy--Letters to Rome--Negotiations--Pope refuses the Dispensation--Fears of the Parisians 319