views to such a degree, that he too was for accepting battle; or whether, well knowing the little reliance that was to be placed on mercenaries, and those not regularly paid, as was here unfortunately the case, he foresaw the probability that the Condottieri would withdraw their forces, and that therefore a glorious death was at any rate to be preferred to a disgraceful retreat,—we know not: so much is certain, that after a considerable party, supported, it is true, by reason and the rules of military science, had obstinately opposed it, the king, to whom retreat without an appeal to the sword seemed too dishonourable, decided on giving battle, and the requisite preparations were made accordingly. This resolution, which, according to Count Frangipani’s enemies, the King of France was induced by him to adopt, excited great hostility against him at Venice; but to this he paid at the time no particular attention.
Among the Condottieri who had furnished the Venetian Republic with troops, there was one named Camillo Ursino, not less distinguished for courage than for his noble person and polished manners. When it was made known that the battle was accepted, and the unpaid troops demanded their arrears before they again risked their lives, Camillo found means, partly by advances from his private funds, and partly by persuasion, to inspire the rude multitude with such
