Considerations of Lord Mel-

chior Klesl, The text uses the Latinized "Glöselij." Klesl (1552–1630) was a pivotal figure in the Counter-Reformation and a chief advisor to the Habsburg Archduke Matthias. Auxiliary Bishop of

Vienna, and Administrator of the Bishopric

of Wiener Neustadt, regarding the question:

Whether the Hungarian Estates should be

granted the freedom of religion.

Most Serene Prince, Archduke of Austria, Most Gracious Lord: Your Princely Serenity most graciously spoke to me a few days ago, asking that I might carefully consider the matter of religion—which the Hungarian rebels are claiming prætendiren From the Latin praetendere, meaning to put forward a claim or demand, often one that the author views as unjustified. in the current negotiation tractation From the Latin tractatio, referring to a formal diplomatic discussion or the handling of a specific treaty.—and that I should then reveal my humble opinion to Your Princely Serenity and be mindful that your conscience should not be burdened or pushed too far in this matter; of all this, you will graciously recall. In addition, I must confess that this care for your own soul shown by Your Princely Serenity has so comforted consolirt From the Latin consolari, to find comfort or solace. me that I know of nothing in this world that could have brought me greater consolation or joy, as Holy Scripture bears witness that all those kings and princes who took the holy religion to heart with all seriousness The sentence continues on the next page, following the "catchword" provided in the metadata: "lassen" (to let/permit).