The life of Leonardo da Vinci by John William Brown

Troubled times in the Duchery of Milan

Il Moro left Milan with the greatest regret, accompanied by his brother the Cardinal Ascanio Sforza, and the Cardinal da Este, and escorted by a strong body of men-at-arms, hoping that his personal influence with the Emperor would induce him to assist him in the recovery of his dominions. He was now destined to experience, not only the reverses of fortune, but the pangs of ill requited friendship; for those whom he had always treated with the greatest kindness were the first to turn against him.

The people of Milan ought to have shown more attachment to his person, as he had beautified their city, extended their commerce, and encouraged the refinements of Literature and the Fine Arts amongst them. But all this was forgotten the moment he became in need of their assistance, and those who had most hastily flattered him in prosperity were the first to betray him in adversity.