Folios 74-76. Folio 74-75. Two copies of a letter from His Catholic Majesty [Carlos...

Folios 74-76. Folio 74-75. Two copies of a letter from His Catholic Majesty [Carlos II] [Charles II] [King of Spain] replying to envoy extraordinary Fr Schonenbergh, dated on 4 October 1691 [NS], concerning the Elector of Bavaria's views on defending [unspecified] states in the [?Spanish Netherlands]. There is a desire to please the British King [William III] in the matter. However, there is a continuing necessity for the Elector to stay in Italy, where the military situation remains unpredictable. The Prince [?of Savoy] is 'transiting' to Flanders, and every possible assistance will be rendered to the new governor [?the Marquis of Pastanaga]. Folio 76 (duplicate of folio 73). Translated copy of the Resolution of His Catholic Majesty given to the Envoy of the English King, Count Schonenberg by the Constable of Castile dated 11 October 1691. In considering to whom the post of Governor of the Low Countries should be given, the Spanish King is assured that the King of Great Britain is motivated only by the public interest, and he knows the friendship he bears to Spain; while recognising the merits of the Elector of Bavaria proposed for this post and the union of blood and interests his appointment would bring about, the fact that the Elector is currently engaged in the war in Italy - the duration of which is uncertain and for which he is so important - does not permit the Spanish King to appoint him at this time. Further reasons are added, including the need to maintain someone of the Elector's standing appropriately in Flanders. Reassures the English King that as regards the means and assistance to support the government appointment in dealing with urgent requirements of the war, they are working with the greatest effort and diligence for the 'Common Cause'.