their source, in order that the knowledge of their origin and progress may serve to prevent, at least, the most disastrous effects. We should, in the first place, recollect that when the empire had lost the power and consideration it had till then enjoyed in Italy, and that the authority of the pope had there become permanent, that country was divided into several states.
The greater part of the large cities took up arms against the nobles, who, supported by the emperor, made them groan under the most cruel oppression. The pope seconded their enterprises, and thereby increased his temporál power.
The others fell under the domination of their citizens: so that Italy became subjected to the church and to a few republics. The ecclesiastical princes, strangers to the art of war, were the first to employ mercenary soldiets. Alberigo da Como, born in Romagnia, was the first who brought this kind of military force into high credit: It was in his school, that Sforza and Braccio, who were then the arbiters of Italy, were formed: To those have succeeded all these who have till the present moment commanded armies in this country.
To their brilliant exploits! we owe Italy being invaded by Charles VIII. ravaged and plundered by Lewis XII. oppressed by Ferdinand, and insulted by the Swiss. The chiefs of these military forces began by laying aside the infantry, at first,
