Folios 120-121. Memoranda, on the state of affairs on the continent and workings...

Folios 120-121. Memoranda, on the state of affairs on the continent and workings of intelligence networks [possibly by someone in the service of the French]. The latest advice from Holland is that the people will begin to revolt if King William prolongs the war; however, the French will be in difficulties if the Allies stand firm and maintain good intelligence. They will risk everything next winter to see if they can't sow disharmony and they are establishing new departments to this end, with new ministers seeking to get into the confidence of the King. It is also said in the Court that King William will not remain for long with the army, but will soon go towards England in which case it is certain that Marshal de Luxembourg will try something to end the campaign 'with a bang'. The writer also reports rumours of discontent amongst some generals with King William and notably the Prince of Nassau de Frise; the Count of Stirum [Styrum?] is mixed up in this too having refused a naval command offered to him by King William on the advice of the said Prince. They remain occupied in the secret council with English matters. Preston [Richard Graham, 1st Viscount Preston?] reported to still be a friend of the writer, of whom they fear nothing / no weakness in revealing the secrets confided in him; they note William has never believed Preston to be in his interests. Talks of obtaining intelligence from all across Germany, noting that Bidal [Claude François Bidal d'Asfeld?] has left in Hamburg not only his secretary (said to have been arrested) but also many others including among the magistrates. They are very satisfied with the execution of that man in Mainz and that he is dead without having said anything of his accomplices - such a confession would have disconcerted them greatly; they and many others at the Imperial Court feared it. Goes on to mention an express sent to Dunkirk with the order for some vessels to leave the port and join with the famous pirate Barth [i.e. Jean Bart]. Recounts efforts of the Court to entice various persons onto their side, including Princes of Barbarie [Barbary], those in Algiers, the Bishop of Munster. Notes that Catinat is camped at Poncalier [Pancalieri] awaiting troops but will be forced to return closer to Pinerolo if they do not arrive given the troops constantly coming into Savoy. The Pope wishes to send an extraordinary nuncio to exhort the King to reach a peace amongst Christianity. Several officers have raised a complaint against de Tourville.