Protestantism in France From Death of Francis I to Edict of Nantes - James Aitken Wylie

Chapter 11
Second and Third Huguenot
Wars
WE return to the consideration of the condition
of the Protestants of France. The Pacification of
Amboise, imperfect from the first, was now
flagrantly violated. The worshipping assemblies of
the Protestants were dispersed, their persons
murdered, their ministers banished or silenced; and
for these wrongs they could obtain no redress. The
iron circle was continually narrowing around them.
Were they to sit still until they were inextricably
enfolded and crushed? No; they must again draw
the sword. The court brought matters to extremity
by hiring 6,000 Swiss mercenaries.
On hearing of this, the Prince de Conde held a
consultation with the Huguenot chiefs. Opinions
were divided. Coligny advised a little longer delay.
"I see perfectly well," said he, "how we may light
the fire, but I do not see the water to put it out." His
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