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we haven’t had complete proof of this Swiss vulnerability, we got a glimpse of it at the battle of Ravenna when the Spanish infantry took on the Germans, who use the same tactics as the Swiss. Relying on their agility and their small round shields, the Spanish got under the German pikes, where, safe themselves, they could strike at will. At this point the Germans were helpless and if the cavalry hadn’t turned up to push the Spanish back they’d all have been killed. Knowing the weak points of these two armies, then, it’s quite possible to train a new army that could hold back a cavalry attack and wouldn’t be unsettled by infantry combat: it’s a question of what weapons you have and what new tactics you can invent. These are the kinds of developments that enhance a new ruler’s reputation and bring him great prestige. It would be a big mistake, then, after all this time, to pass up the chance of rescuing Italy. Words can’t express the loving welcome such a saviour would get in all the towns that have suffered from this torrent of foreign invaders: the thirst for revenge, the unswerving trust, the devotion, the tears. What doors would be closed to such a man? Who would refuse to obey him? What envy could stand in his way? What Italian would not bow his knee? Everybody loathes this barbarous occupation. So, may your noble house undertake this duty with the spirit and hope that inspire just causes, so that our country may be glorified under your banner, and under your protection Petrarch’s words be fulfilled: Virtue against fury Shall take up arms; and the fight be short; For ancient valour Is not dead in Italian hearts.* * Virtù contro a furore Prenderà l’arme; e fia el combatter corto; Ché l’antico valore Nelli italici cor non è ancor morto.