The battle over Ferrara continued in mid-April, 1502. Our defending force was ragged from tough battle. When they were met by a somewhat inferior force of Venetians, they nevertheless felt the challenge.
But for more than two weeks, our forces there hold out. This becomes a timid war of attrition – each side taking minimal casualties.
Meanwhile, the Venetians who had been besieging Mantua head home! I have no idea why, but I’m grateful. Not enough to thank them, but still…
I did catch a glimpse, also, of Brandenburg’s navy in action! I’ll see if I can tell how well they do.
Back in Ferrara, our Milanese soldiers finally turn the tables on the Venetians. After being nearly defeated, they are now hitting back hard. Could they actually pull this into a victory, and retain Ferrara in our hands?
By mid-May, we have successfully turned the Venetians back from Ferrara.
In fact, by mid-May the main force of the Venetian army is hanging out in Friuli! Have they decided that since this was not their war, that they will just stay home and not be bothered? Could God so favor us?
Perhaps. After all, we did come to the defense of the Papal States…
A possible confirmation comes just days later…
I also take note that the territory of the Papal States has all been freed by either Papal or Sicilian troops. Now, Tuscany had controlled those territories…. But if Venice were the alliance leader, then….
Yup. The war with the Papal States is over. Now Tuscany and Venice face us and our allies only.
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