with the Resolution[1] and direction, as if it depended on them, But take the matter backe into their owne Hands, and make it appeare to the world, that the Decrees and finall Directions, (which, because they come forth with Prudence and Power, are resembled to[2] Pallas Armed) proceeded from themselves; And not onely from their Authority, but (the more to adde Reputation to Themselves) from their Head and Device.
Let us now speake of the Inconveniences of Counsell, and of the Remedies. The Inconveniences, that have been noted in calling and using Counsell, are three. First, the Revealing of Affaires, whereby they become lesse Secret. Secondly, the Weakning of the Authority of Princes, as if they were lesse of Themselves.[3] Thirdly, the Danger of being unfaithfully counselled, and more for the good of them that counsell then of him that is counselled. For which Inconveniences, the Doctrine[4] of Italy, and Practise of France, in some Kings times, hath introduced Cabinet Counsels;[5] A Remedy worse then the Disease.
As to Secrecy; Princes are not bound to communicate all Matters with all Counsellors, but may extract and select. Neither is it necessary that he that consulteth what he should doe, should declare what he will doe. But let Princes beware that the unsecreting[6] of their Affaires comes not from Themselves. And as for Cabinet Counsels, it may be their Motto, Plenus rimarum sum:[7] One futile[8] person, that maketh it his glory to tell, will doe more hurt then many, that know it their duty to conceale. It is true, there be some Affaires, which require extreme Secrecy, which will hardly go beyond one or two persons besides the King:[9] Neither are those Counsels unprosperous: For besides the Secrecy, they commonly goe on constantly[10] in one Spirit of Direction, without distraction. But then it
