_ 413 _ As for the marriage of the Serene Princess Elizabeth to the King of France [encoded passage] and seen and understood by His Imperial Majesty as have been suggested by His Catholic Majesty and are so in effect, and hence they will not be repeated here, with many others that have not been expressed and put forward by His Imperial Majesty to the person concerned, who know all these matters and understands so well the intrigues and aspirations of [encoded passage] against the House of Austria and the greatness of both Majesties. It is thus understood by both Majesties that this marriage is not to be desired, in the interests of their undertakings and the tranquillity and maintenance of their states. This being so, His Catholic Majesty does not hesitate to tell His Imperial Majesty frankly and freely that he should answer resolutely to the Most Christian King and Queen that he does not wish to consider this marriage from any suspicion or fear of what the French might do in resentment of such a response, for he understands that the two Majesties being as close as they are and will always be, have nothing to fear, Nor will he refuse it in order to avoid assuming the obligation always to aid and assist His all needs of whatever nature which may arise cannot be greater Majesty because of any harm that may come to him as a result of this refusal.
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