CHAPTER V.

FROM THE ACCESSION OF CHARLES IX. TO THE MASSACRE OF VASSY.

[1560–1562.]

Character of the Boy-King--Portrait of Catherine--The States-General--The Chancellor’s Address--Speeches of the Three Orators--Agitation in the Provinces--Religious Amnesty--Edict of July--Provincial Assemblies Convoked--Instructions of the Isle of France--The Triumvirate--States of Pontoise--Proposals of Reform--Colloquy of Poissy--Beza--Conference in the Queen’s Chamber--King’s Speech--Beza’s Defense--Catherine’s Liberal Spirit--Spread of New Doctrines--Monster Congregations--The Guises Intrigue with Spain--Violence of the Clergy--Massacres at Cahors and Aurillac--Amiens--Huguenot Outrages--Riot of St. Médard--Notables at St. Germains--Edict of January, 1562--Violence at Dijon and Aix--Anthony’s Apostasy--The Duke and the Cardinal at Saverne--Massacre at Vassy--Both Parties Arm--Guise Enters Paris--Plot to Seize the King 145